Posted on  09/12/2020 16:33:30

My rating: 4 compelling stars

'Life becomes a lot less complicated when you stop worrying what people think.'

Thought provoking and intriguing, The Straight Crimes is a contemporary romantic suspense with a twist.



In a world where being straight is frowned upon, two teenagers must choose in between their love for each other and a life in which they'll constantly need to watch over their shoulders, in fear of what others would think.

But that is by far not all. Harper Jones and Nik Roberts have a cartload of baggage too, from a troubled home life. And if that weren't enough, dark forces infiltrate the young couple's existence, hell bent on keeping them apart.

If Harper and Nik decide to follow their hearts and brave the world, they'll have to fight tooth and nail not only to be together but also for their very lives.

Fast paced and intriguing, The Straight Crimes offers a tale that's not only thought provoking but also full of great twists and turns that you simply don't see coming.

'An empty life, never fulfilled, is a wasted life.'

Strong messages and a lot of food for thought are beautifully intertwined in a gripping story of love, determination and courage. It is heartbreaking at times and inspiring at others. And it feels downright real. Bullying, ostracism, drug addiction, and abuse, this novel lays it all out for everyone to see. And it does it in such a way that you simply cannot help but notice. Perhaps because the reality is a little twisted and normal is no longer the norm. But mostly because of the vivid and down-to-earth way in which the situations are presented. This writer will make you pause and take note.

"People are always gonna tell you what's right and wrong according to what they think, but you need to believe in yourself and do what feels right for you."

If only this advice were easy to follow. Especially for our couple here.

Apart from the romance and the thought provoking themes, we also get a great suspense, complete with a couple of awesome psychic scenes that kept me right at the edge of the seat. And then that ending!!! Absolutely heartbreaking and yet so perfectly fitting!

Action-packed and gripping, The Straight Crimes is a book that you won't easily forget. It is one of those that will stay with you long after turning the last page and make you think.
It's gutsy and innovative, refreshing and heartbreaking.

Don't hesitate to give it a try!

Happy reading everyone
and remember
"You need to be yourself, no matter what anyone thinks. Otherwise you'll never truly find happiness."

Check out this book and more of Matt Juhl over at: http://www.instagram.com/author.mattjuhl