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Better Together #1
Better Together
Since being thrown out of his home by his parents, Caden has been struggling to survive on the streets.
He lives in constant fear, stresses over his next meal, and dreads trying to find a safe place to sleep at night. He eventually finds an unlocked car and settles in to sleep, but is soon interrupted when someone steals the car. With little choice but to ride along, Caden soon learns that first impressions aren’t always correct.
Seventeen-year-old Damario has been raising his little brother and sister by himself since his parents were deported. He never knew how hard it was going to be paying the bills and making sure there was always food on the table. Or how hard it would be to hold his family together when they all depended on him to do it. He finds himself stealing cars to make ends meet, but he never expected to find someone sleeping in the back of one of them. And he really didn’t expect this stowaway to change his life.
When Damario brings Caden home, it was supposed to be just for a shower and a hot meal, but he can hardly kick him out onto the streets again. There is no way he could have seen that by saving Caden that night, he was also saving himself. When Damario’s world starts to fall apart, they both realize that the answer to all of their problems is helping each other, and although the world tries to drive them apart, they really are better together.
He lives in constant fear, stresses over his next meal, and dreads trying to find a safe place to sleep at night. He eventually finds an unlocked car and settles in to sleep, but is soon interrupted when someone steals the car. With little choice but to ride along, Caden soon learns that first impressions aren’t always correct.
Seventeen-year-old Damario has been raising his little brother and sister by himself since his parents were deported. He never knew how hard it was going to be paying the bills and making sure there was always food on the table. Or how hard it would be to hold his family together when they all depended on him to do it. He finds himself stealing cars to make ends meet, but he never expected to find someone sleeping in the back of one of them. And he really didn’t expect this stowaway to change his life.
When Damario brings Caden home, it was supposed to be just for a shower and a hot meal, but he can hardly kick him out onto the streets again. There is no way he could have seen that by saving Caden that night, he was also saving himself. When Damario’s world starts to fall apart, they both realize that the answer to all of their problems is helping each other, and although the world tries to drive them apart, they really are better together.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 15, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 22, 2023
3.5 Stars
This is one of those rare cases where I’ve struggled to land on an appropriate rating, ping-ponging back and forth in deliberation.
You see, I loved the story and the characters, but the technical execution left a bit to be desired.
Walking a fine line between being a YA book and a NA book, this story, with its strong hurt-comfort themes and found family vibes, left me feeling warm and fuzzy, after following the trials and tribulations—and ultimate triumphs—of two teenage boys who are forced by circumstance to rise to the occasion and act as adults well before their time.
First, we have Caden—sweet, kind-souled, heart-on-his-sleeve, Caden—who finds himself living on the streets after his parents kicked him out for being gay. He’s seventeen when the story begins and has lived quiet the sheltered life, making him unprepared for the harsh realities of being discarded and homeless at such a young age.
His saving grace comes in the form of seventeen-year-old, Damario (Rio), who finds Caden sleeping in an abandoned car Rio is stealing for parts, also in desperate need of money, after his parent’s sudden deportation several months prior, leaving Rio the sole carer for his two younger siblings, Adana (12) and Eron (6).
Being the innate protector and carer he is, Rio brings Caden home, providing a safe place to stay and the support Caden needs to get back on his feet. Together they prove to be quite the formidable and capable pair, working in tandem to keep a roof over all of their heads and keeping themselves and the children not only safe but happy.
Despite their circumstances—that absolutely no one their age should ever be exposed to—these two young men find a way to not only survive but thrive, forming their own unique little family unit, while falling hopelessly in love in the process.
I adored these characters and my heart ached under the weight of responsibility and stress they were both facing. Thankfully, there was so much heart and sweetness to the storytelling that the themes never felt too heavy or too insurmountable. This also meant that, perhaps at times, the achievements and wins these boys had (as they got new jobs, graduated, were rewarded scholarships etc) felt maybe a bit unrealistic and too easy, all things considered.
The romance was extremely sweetsy and tender, with a lot of early “I love you” declarations, which were repeated a lot once made, and although I really liked Caden and Rio as a couple, I would also consider them to be a bit too sugar-sweet for my general liking. Then again, there is a place and a time for this kind of easy, super romantic, perhaps even sappy, kind of relationship in romance reading and I just happened to find myself in the exact right mood when I decided to pick this up.
I guess my biggest critique was in the writing itself. Although the story and the romance worked a treat for me, I struggled at times with the (sometimes) noticeable corniness of the dialogue, finding myself thinking often about how I couldn’t realistically imagine seventeen-year-old boys speaking the way these two spoke to one another. It was too perfect, too mature, but regardless of this, I was able to suspend disbelief and go with the heart-warming flow of things.
At the end of the day, I could have given this a 3 star rating and gotten super caught up in the small niggles I had with the writing, but the pros outweighed the cons for me, tenfold, so I’ve rated up, keeping an open mind when it comes to potentially reading more from this author in time.
This is one of those rare cases where I’ve struggled to land on an appropriate rating, ping-ponging back and forth in deliberation.
You see, I loved the story and the characters, but the technical execution left a bit to be desired.
Walking a fine line between being a YA book and a NA book, this story, with its strong hurt-comfort themes and found family vibes, left me feeling warm and fuzzy, after following the trials and tribulations—and ultimate triumphs—of two teenage boys who are forced by circumstance to rise to the occasion and act as adults well before their time.
First, we have Caden—sweet, kind-souled, heart-on-his-sleeve, Caden—who finds himself living on the streets after his parents kicked him out for being gay. He’s seventeen when the story begins and has lived quiet the sheltered life, making him unprepared for the harsh realities of being discarded and homeless at such a young age.
His saving grace comes in the form of seventeen-year-old, Damario (Rio), who finds Caden sleeping in an abandoned car Rio is stealing for parts, also in desperate need of money, after his parent’s sudden deportation several months prior, leaving Rio the sole carer for his two younger siblings, Adana (12) and Eron (6).
Being the innate protector and carer he is, Rio brings Caden home, providing a safe place to stay and the support Caden needs to get back on his feet. Together they prove to be quite the formidable and capable pair, working in tandem to keep a roof over all of their heads and keeping themselves and the children not only safe but happy.
Despite their circumstances—that absolutely no one their age should ever be exposed to—these two young men find a way to not only survive but thrive, forming their own unique little family unit, while falling hopelessly in love in the process.
I adored these characters and my heart ached under the weight of responsibility and stress they were both facing. Thankfully, there was so much heart and sweetness to the storytelling that the themes never felt too heavy or too insurmountable. This also meant that, perhaps at times, the achievements and wins these boys had (as they got new jobs, graduated, were rewarded scholarships etc) felt maybe a bit unrealistic and too easy, all things considered.
The romance was extremely sweetsy and tender, with a lot of early “I love you” declarations, which were repeated a lot once made, and although I really liked Caden and Rio as a couple, I would also consider them to be a bit too sugar-sweet for my general liking. Then again, there is a place and a time for this kind of easy, super romantic, perhaps even sappy, kind of relationship in romance reading and I just happened to find myself in the exact right mood when I decided to pick this up.
I guess my biggest critique was in the writing itself. Although the story and the romance worked a treat for me, I struggled at times with the (sometimes) noticeable corniness of the dialogue, finding myself thinking often about how I couldn’t realistically imagine seventeen-year-old boys speaking the way these two spoke to one another. It was too perfect, too mature, but regardless of this, I was able to suspend disbelief and go with the heart-warming flow of things.
At the end of the day, I could have given this a 3 star rating and gotten super caught up in the small niggles I had with the writing, but the pros outweighed the cons for me, tenfold, so I’ve rated up, keeping an open mind when it comes to potentially reading more from this author in time.
Shelved as 'dnf'
July 17, 2018DNF at 20%
The writing really isn't doing it for me. The dialogue felt really unrealistic.
The writing really isn't doing it for me. The dialogue felt really unrealistic.
May 18, 2018
A story of finding love and family and hope just when you needed it most but thought it would never come your way. There are some pretty intense, dark moments - abandonment, despair - but the payoff is worth it.
There were issues that stemmed from editing. Those issues certainly don’t make this a bad book. In fact, I’m rather encouraged by this author and as she appears to be new, I look forward to seeing her growth as a storyteller. She has clear ideas and a great deal of passion but, (as is the case with most writers) just some objective guidance would turn a strong, provocative tale into a topnotch novel.
4 stars and eagerly awaiting what’s next for this author.
There were issues that stemmed from editing. Those issues certainly don’t make this a bad book. In fact, I’m rather encouraged by this author and as she appears to be new, I look forward to seeing her growth as a storyteller. She has clear ideas and a great deal of passion but, (as is the case with most writers) just some objective guidance would turn a strong, provocative tale into a topnotch novel.
4 stars and eagerly awaiting what’s next for this author.
May 15, 2018
Caden was kicked out by his parents when he was seventeen. When they discovered he was gay, his father told him to put a few clothes into a backpack and drove him to somewhere he had never been. Kicking him out of the car and telling him to never come back. Homeless and not worldly enough to know how to care for himself, he lived in constant fear. One night he finds an unlocked car to sleep in.
Damario “Rio” is seventeen, parenting his younger sister and brother. His parents were deported. Working, still going to school, he steals cars to make enough to support his family. Scared, alone and afraid he is slowly going under from the responsibilities heaped on him.
The night he steals the car Caden is sleeping in became the best night of his life. Together these young men learn to accept that they are so much better together than apart. The life lessons they teach each other turning them from boys to men. With help along the way from friends they didn't even know they had. Rio credits it to the sweet guy that he stole.
This was a sweet, touching book. I enjoyed watching them grow together, taking everything life threw at them and making it work. I liked that the author let them mature a little before they fell in love and began a relationship.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Damario “Rio” is seventeen, parenting his younger sister and brother. His parents were deported. Working, still going to school, he steals cars to make enough to support his family. Scared, alone and afraid he is slowly going under from the responsibilities heaped on him.
The night he steals the car Caden is sleeping in became the best night of his life. Together these young men learn to accept that they are so much better together than apart. The life lessons they teach each other turning them from boys to men. With help along the way from friends they didn't even know they had. Rio credits it to the sweet guy that he stole.
This was a sweet, touching book. I enjoyed watching them grow together, taking everything life threw at them and making it work. I liked that the author let them mature a little before they fell in love and began a relationship.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
May 15, 2018
Better Together tells the story of two young boys, both only seventeen years old, who have to deal with situations that would stress out adults. Caden is thrown out of home when his parents discover he is gay, and Rio has to become the father of the family when his parents are deported, due to a small mistake. These two struggle when separate, but once they are together, things get better.
This is a sweet story, full of hope and love, showing that maturity isn't necessarily linked with age. In fact, it seemed strange to hear their ages being referenced, as they seemed so much older in themselves. By pulling together, taking one step at a time, and asking for help when needed, Caden and Rio appear to be able to do anything.
With a high feel-good factor, I can definitely recommend this story for when life seems insurmountable!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
This is a sweet story, full of hope and love, showing that maturity isn't necessarily linked with age. In fact, it seemed strange to hear their ages being referenced, as they seemed so much older in themselves. By pulling together, taking one step at a time, and asking for help when needed, Caden and Rio appear to be able to do anything.
With a high feel-good factor, I can definitely recommend this story for when life seems insurmountable!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 17, 2018
If you're tired of unnecessary drama and such this is the right book for you!! Even though both Caden and Rio had a rough time at the beginning it still made my heart feel so happy and warm. I absolutely adored the story of Caden and Rio and of course the kids. BL is such a talented new writer that captured the heart and soul of the main characters so lovingly. This is the perfect feel good book for a lazy afternoon or two. ❤
May 20, 2019
I love Cade and Rio!!! I shall re-read this story again 😍
This story was like a delicious hot chocolate on a cold night for me. It was a great read for escapism. I was simply emmersed in the story, one minute tearful and another minute smiling.
This story was like a delicious hot chocolate on a cold night for me. It was a great read for escapism. I was simply emmersed in the story, one minute tearful and another minute smiling.
June 19, 2018
Though not really my current cup of tea at the moment (I’m in a drama-rama, masochistic mood for books recently), this book is no less well written. It’s got characters you can relate to that stay within their constructs and thus makes their perils believable and true. Minimal heart jerking, but you see the relationship evolve and it gives you warm fuzzies.
Good debut and looking forward to seeing more in the future.
Good debut and looking forward to seeing more in the future.
May 17, 2018
I have to first point out that I am such a sucker for single dads, or brother’s that step up and take care of their siblings. Hot guys with kids are just an overall must read, for me. In this one, we start off with Caden, who has the world worst parents. Upon finding a m/m romance novel in his room, they give him 10 minutes to pack a couple things and then his dad drives him far away from home and just drops him off in an abandoned parking lot. Literally, like a dog they wanna dump, they just load him up and haul him off. What I do not understand, is why nothing was done about this when he didn’t show up at school or whatever. The cops came and they told him he was a runaway, but the sister, she should’ve said something. Why did she not tell anyone the real story??? Why didn’t Caden?? His parents should’ve been punished for what they done, not only once, but they done it TWICE!
Damario, or Rio, has he’s called…. Is just shy of seventeen when his parents get deported over something ridiculous. I hope our government isn’t that terrible that a simple address change can get you deported, but anyway….It didn’t seem believable that three minor children would just be left to their own devices when the parents got deported, the youngest being six. I mean, they had a neighbor that helped out a bunch, sure, but they were all still minors… how did nobody catch on to that?
Anyway, while out doing some shady business to make a little extra cash, Rio finds Caden sleeping in the back of a car he’s trying to steal, and sees how skinny and unkempt he is. He takes him along with him and decides he’s going to help him. I thought this was admirable because the kid and his two siblings didn’t have much, but Rio wanted to help Caden. It was cute, if not a bit unrealistic. I can say with absolute certainty that in no way would I have trusted my little siblings alone with a homeless stranger I met an hour ago… no matter how harmless he seemed. I didn’t like that, it again seemed unrealistic.
I did like how each boy felt like the other saved them in a way… it felt like young love, and I found myself rooting for them both. I was glad that eventually, everything started working out. I had thought that they’d have a lot more trouble from the guy boosting cars when Rio just wanted to quit. Typically, when you start doing shady work for shady people, they don’t’ just let you leave whenever you want to. So, I was glad that wasn’t the case, but again, it just felt unrealistic to me. I feel like I’ve used that word a lot in this review, but if I had to describe it all in one word, that’s what it would be.
It was a cute story, a bit mushy in some places but overall, it was cute. I was happy with the way it ended and though Rio’s family didn’t ever make it back into the states, I was glad that they were able to visit them often and everyone seemed to be happy and healthy and together.
3 stars from me!
Damario, or Rio, has he’s called…. Is just shy of seventeen when his parents get deported over something ridiculous. I hope our government isn’t that terrible that a simple address change can get you deported, but anyway….It didn’t seem believable that three minor children would just be left to their own devices when the parents got deported, the youngest being six. I mean, they had a neighbor that helped out a bunch, sure, but they were all still minors… how did nobody catch on to that?
Anyway, while out doing some shady business to make a little extra cash, Rio finds Caden sleeping in the back of a car he’s trying to steal, and sees how skinny and unkempt he is. He takes him along with him and decides he’s going to help him. I thought this was admirable because the kid and his two siblings didn’t have much, but Rio wanted to help Caden. It was cute, if not a bit unrealistic. I can say with absolute certainty that in no way would I have trusted my little siblings alone with a homeless stranger I met an hour ago… no matter how harmless he seemed. I didn’t like that, it again seemed unrealistic.
I did like how each boy felt like the other saved them in a way… it felt like young love, and I found myself rooting for them both. I was glad that eventually, everything started working out. I had thought that they’d have a lot more trouble from the guy boosting cars when Rio just wanted to quit. Typically, when you start doing shady work for shady people, they don’t’ just let you leave whenever you want to. So, I was glad that wasn’t the case, but again, it just felt unrealistic to me. I feel like I’ve used that word a lot in this review, but if I had to describe it all in one word, that’s what it would be.
It was a cute story, a bit mushy in some places but overall, it was cute. I was happy with the way it ended and though Rio’s family didn’t ever make it back into the states, I was glad that they were able to visit them often and everyone seemed to be happy and healthy and together.
3 stars from me!
June 21, 2018
3/5
Rio and Caden were likable characters but it was a mediocre story. This book is very sappy, too long and many passages were so redundant, it's clear it was to pad the story. An editor, a good one, would have slashed a good 30-40%.
If you want a simple read with likable characters in a saccharine HEA story, this is for you.
Rio and Caden were likable characters but it was a mediocre story. This book is very sappy, too long and many passages were so redundant, it's clear it was to pad the story. An editor, a good one, would have slashed a good 30-40%.
If you want a simple read with likable characters in a saccharine HEA story, this is for you.
May 16, 2021
This was ok but it did not thrill me, it started off good enough and now and then it was interesting, but along the way I found it a little slow. I did finish it, the epilogue was sweet and a nice wrap up, but it did not make an impression on me, no disrespect to the author.
August 5, 2018
Better Together is a sweet and beautiful romance about two boys who are brought together by circumstances and try to make the most of it by being together! Caden is a 17 year old boy abandoned by his parents for being gay, while Rio is 17 year boy left alone to take care of his younger siblings as his parents as deported back to Mexico!
While they both meet under unusual circumstances, they make the most of it by creating a better life for their little family and for themselves. It was a very realistic story about two people coming together to fight real problems which makes them a stronger team.
It was a great story with great writing and I look forward to reading more books by Maxwell.
*Copy provided by Author in exchange of an honest review.
While they both meet under unusual circumstances, they make the most of it by creating a better life for their little family and for themselves. It was a very realistic story about two people coming together to fight real problems which makes them a stronger team.
It was a great story with great writing and I look forward to reading more books by Maxwell.
*Copy provided by Author in exchange of an honest review.
May 18, 2018
What a great story about finding your own family and learning what love really means! Caden and Rio have both had a pretty rough time with life and a chance meeting brings these two together when they really need it! And together they learn about overcoming, strength and above all love!
This was a sweet sorry really showcasing hope and love, these two are both older souls than their age and they show that responsibility isn’t a number! I loved these characters and their hearts and their journey to finding happiness together. Life isn’t always easy but having another person supporting you along the way can make all the difference and that is Caden and Rio! I definitely recommend this book!
This was a sweet sorry really showcasing hope and love, these two are both older souls than their age and they show that responsibility isn’t a number! I loved these characters and their hearts and their journey to finding happiness together. Life isn’t always easy but having another person supporting you along the way can make all the difference and that is Caden and Rio! I definitely recommend this book!
May 31, 2018
This was a cute story!
I hated the way Caden was treated by his parents. It’s disgusting this type of people exists!! I would have loved some justice.
Caden & Rio were both wonderful guys and their love was sweet. Only I don’t belief IRL two horny teenagers just stop halfway a frotting session 😊.
I believe this is a debut. I will def check out the next books of this author!
I hated the way Caden was treated by his parents. It’s disgusting this type of people exists!! I would have loved some justice.
Caden & Rio were both wonderful guys and their love was sweet. Only I don’t belief IRL two horny teenagers just stop halfway a frotting session 😊.
I believe this is a debut. I will def check out the next books of this author!
June 26, 2018
My first Book by this author. It shines a light on many of the problems in our society. Homeless teens, the injustice in our hardbound immigration laws and the struggles many families must deal with. Well written heart wrenching and compassionate. Great characters and extremely well done overall.
August 2, 2018
Sweet, heartbreaking, cute love story about two boys struggling for different reasons come together. Loved the storyline and the characters. The story drew me in right from the beginning, some parts of this story I had tears. This was the first book I read from this author and I can't wait to read more.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review.
May 15, 2018
I really loved this debut release from BL Maxwell! Rio and Caden have a lot to prove to themselves and the world and I love how they figured it out together. They made sure Rio’s family stayed together under dire circumstances and added a new member in Caden. Caden desperately needed someone to believe in him and I love that it came from Rio! Their story is angsty and sweet and heartbreaking and wonderful. Can’t wait for more from this new author!!!
June 4, 2018
Sweet, cute, heart breaking and real. Kids thrown away. Parents deported. It's all in today's headlines. Caden and Demario had so much to learn, about themselves, each other and what a family made is really about. A very good story.
July 5, 2018
Sweet Story
This was a sweet, loving story full of hope, second chances and every day struggles. Rio and Caden are such an adorable couple! If you enjoy reading stories with a sweet and happy ending this is the book for you!
This was a sweet, loving story full of hope, second chances and every day struggles. Rio and Caden are such an adorable couple! If you enjoy reading stories with a sweet and happy ending this is the book for you!
May 16, 2018
Abandoned by the people who are suppose to love and protect him the most, Caden is suddenly homeless with no clue what or where he is going to do next. When Damario's parents are deported he's left to care for his little sister and brother and has to turn to stealing cars to keep them together. When the latest car Damario takes has a passenger sleeping in the backseat, neither boy had any idea how their lives would never be the same. Can two 17 year old boys survive and thrive when they help each other?
Better Together is not great but it is wonderful. Now I know that some of you are thinking "huh? not great but wonderful is a little contradicting." I don't see it that way. A story doesn't have to be great to put a smile on your face, to have characters that worm their way into your heart, to form an emotional attachment for the reader. So I say again, Better Together may not be great but it is definitely wonderful.
Caden and Rio are absolutely adorable and I love their immediate connection. What I loved most was through that connection they both were able to find not only each other but also a place in the world. Better Together may be a sweet, lovely story of survival that warms your heart but its also a tale of heartache, loss, and betrayal. How any parent can "throw away" their child because of their sexuality is completely incomprehensible to me but it happens and that is what makes this story even more real. A definite winner. I loved how the author, whether intentional or not, shows their youth and innocence through their sweet vulnerability.
BL Maxwell is a new author which can always leave a reader unsure. Is there room for improvement? Of course, a writer who feels they have nothing new to learn is an author I don't want to read. I look forward to reading Miss Maxwell's work for years to come and highly recommend giving Better Together a read.
Better Together is not great but it is wonderful. Now I know that some of you are thinking "huh? not great but wonderful is a little contradicting." I don't see it that way. A story doesn't have to be great to put a smile on your face, to have characters that worm their way into your heart, to form an emotional attachment for the reader. So I say again, Better Together may not be great but it is definitely wonderful.
Caden and Rio are absolutely adorable and I love their immediate connection. What I loved most was through that connection they both were able to find not only each other but also a place in the world. Better Together may be a sweet, lovely story of survival that warms your heart but its also a tale of heartache, loss, and betrayal. How any parent can "throw away" their child because of their sexuality is completely incomprehensible to me but it happens and that is what makes this story even more real. A definite winner. I loved how the author, whether intentional or not, shows their youth and innocence through their sweet vulnerability.
BL Maxwell is a new author which can always leave a reader unsure. Is there room for improvement? Of course, a writer who feels they have nothing new to learn is an author I don't want to read. I look forward to reading Miss Maxwell's work for years to come and highly recommend giving Better Together a read.
January 22, 2019
I was just blown away by this story. It was so sweet and yet so sad. I am so hoping this author keeps up the great work. Well written with well developed characters. I will read this one again. Update 6/15/18...I enjoyed this book so much that I read it again. Loved it just as much the second time as I did the first.
February 21, 2020
Sweet read
Better Together is a story about two sweet, considerate, and intelligent—but very lost—seventeen-year-old boys who were left on their own but for very different reasons.
As far as Caden’s situation goes, I will never understand how a parent can toss their child away in any circumstance. Whatever happened to unconditional love? Nowadays, it’s becoming all too often that we hear about teenagers kicked out of their homes after coming out to their families. Home—home is supposed to be every child’s safe haven—the one place where all the garbage from the outside world never gets to enter. I’m reeling from the actions of Caden’s folks, but shocked by the lack of reaction from his mom. Well then, off to the streets he goes.
Damario is also on his own, but not by choice. As you can read in the blurb, sadly, his parents were deported. Now he’s the sole caretaker of his younger brother and sister, trying his hardest to juggle adult responsibilities in order to survive.
Caden and Damario together create a story of perseverance, kindness, and doing the right(ish) thing. I stress that because of how Damario actually found Caden. Let’s just say, in this case, desperate times call for desperate measures. Even with it all, Damario takes Caden home with him and trusts him with his own siblings.
The relationship the two of them build together as they join forces to financially support their family of four turns into so much more. This is where the beauty of the story begins. Together they make sure the children are their main priority—homework completed, lunches made everyday, and someone always available for the trips back and forth to school—and it’s all done with the love and support that each of their own parents couldn’t provide. The list of chores and responsibilities goes on and on, and honestly, I can’t imagine any teenager having to take that on for countless months. Side note: Caden’s mad coupon skills were truly impressive!
And … in the craziness of their day-to-day life, somewhere along the way these two beautiful, selfless souls fell in love. Don’t expect hot, steamy sexy scenes: First of all, remember, they are young and completely inexperienced so they’re stumbling along just like most of us did at that age; and secondly, they’re exhausted! Parenting, working overtime, household chores, school for Damario and GED studying for Caden are quite overwhelming … you get the picture.
Despite all the struggles and sometimes poor decision-making, in the end, their drive and determination along with the love and support of one another, Caden and Damario have made it—and with flying rainbow colors because they really are better together … I loved the epilogue—Their happily ever after was so well-deserved and perfectly written! Squeeeeeee!
A heartfelt storyline, plenty of attention to detail, and characters who anyone would fall head over heels in love with all helped to make this a four-and-a-half star read for me!
Reviewed by Lisa Cullinan ~ Bourbon, Bikes, and Books
Better Together is a story about two sweet, considerate, and intelligent—but very lost—seventeen-year-old boys who were left on their own but for very different reasons.
As far as Caden’s situation goes, I will never understand how a parent can toss their child away in any circumstance. Whatever happened to unconditional love? Nowadays, it’s becoming all too often that we hear about teenagers kicked out of their homes after coming out to their families. Home—home is supposed to be every child’s safe haven—the one place where all the garbage from the outside world never gets to enter. I’m reeling from the actions of Caden’s folks, but shocked by the lack of reaction from his mom. Well then, off to the streets he goes.
Damario is also on his own, but not by choice. As you can read in the blurb, sadly, his parents were deported. Now he’s the sole caretaker of his younger brother and sister, trying his hardest to juggle adult responsibilities in order to survive.
Caden and Damario together create a story of perseverance, kindness, and doing the right(ish) thing. I stress that because of how Damario actually found Caden. Let’s just say, in this case, desperate times call for desperate measures. Even with it all, Damario takes Caden home with him and trusts him with his own siblings.
The relationship the two of them build together as they join forces to financially support their family of four turns into so much more. This is where the beauty of the story begins. Together they make sure the children are their main priority—homework completed, lunches made everyday, and someone always available for the trips back and forth to school—and it’s all done with the love and support that each of their own parents couldn’t provide. The list of chores and responsibilities goes on and on, and honestly, I can’t imagine any teenager having to take that on for countless months. Side note: Caden’s mad coupon skills were truly impressive!
And … in the craziness of their day-to-day life, somewhere along the way these two beautiful, selfless souls fell in love. Don’t expect hot, steamy sexy scenes: First of all, remember, they are young and completely inexperienced so they’re stumbling along just like most of us did at that age; and secondly, they’re exhausted! Parenting, working overtime, household chores, school for Damario and GED studying for Caden are quite overwhelming … you get the picture.
Despite all the struggles and sometimes poor decision-making, in the end, their drive and determination along with the love and support of one another, Caden and Damario have made it—and with flying rainbow colors because they really are better together … I loved the epilogue—Their happily ever after was so well-deserved and perfectly written! Squeeeeeee!
A heartfelt storyline, plenty of attention to detail, and characters who anyone would fall head over heels in love with all helped to make this a four-and-a-half star read for me!
Reviewed by Lisa Cullinan ~ Bourbon, Bikes, and Books
October 4, 2018
I liked this book. It had a high feel good vibe about it, even though the circumstances of the main characters are not all that good.
It's a story of hope and of 2 young boys stepping up en taking everything life throws at them.
It was the first time I read something from this author and I look forward to the next book!
It's a story of hope and of 2 young boys stepping up en taking everything life throws at them.
It was the first time I read something from this author and I look forward to the next book!
March 12, 2019
Man this was such a good book, but I’m not going to lie. This book is why I hate people sometimes. Especially our government. Just babies themselves having to be adults, and do things they aren’t ready for.
For Caden, he was forced from him home, at 17, because heaven forbid, he's gay. Assholes. Trying to survive on the street is killing him. He's so lost and don't know what to do. It's been months now. As he was trying to get sleep one night in a car, someone decided to break into the car. Rio was forced, but by his choice, to take an illegal job. Grab some cars to steal for the chop shop. He hated it with a passion, but since his parents got deported, for no good reason, he's worn out from trying to finish school, working, and taking care of his two younger siblings. Fate, I guess you could say, drew him to that car with Caden and Rio wasn't going to let him back out in the streets. Something told him Caden just needed a hand up. Hell, he did too. And maybe they could help each other. And that's what happened. Caden learned to trust, and Rio had a friend. Eventually more. They were both each other's rocks. Their support system. They did everything they could to survive and raise those kids. And they were making it. Now if their 'luck’ would hold out, because they learned quick, they were much better together.
Caden broke my heart. Having being shoved out of his home. Asshole parents. I hate people like that. He was so scared. Alone. Lost. Thankfully he hadn't had to prostitute or do the drug thing, but he was getting desperate. Rio finding him when he did was the best. Of course for Caden, it was hard to trust. There were bad people out there he'd been trying to avoid for months. Rio seemed like a good guy but you never know. But when he finally let go and trusted, it made all the difference.
For Rio, man I went for him as well. Seventeen years old boy, forced to set aside his life and happiness to make sure he took care of his family. Which meant paying the mortgage, the bills, having food, clothes, etc. For a 17 year old to be thrown in that kind of situation, it's scary as hell. And most kids today wouldn't do it. Which in turn made me admire him. Both of them.
Caden came in to this situation and jumped in with both feet. He didn't hesitate to help. Rio even did things he shouldn't have done to save his family. He didn't do it for long, but he had to have help. These are some strong boys. Courageous. You never quite know the strength of your character until the situation calls for it. And these boys passed that test with flying colors. A really good book.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
For Caden, he was forced from him home, at 17, because heaven forbid, he's gay. Assholes. Trying to survive on the street is killing him. He's so lost and don't know what to do. It's been months now. As he was trying to get sleep one night in a car, someone decided to break into the car. Rio was forced, but by his choice, to take an illegal job. Grab some cars to steal for the chop shop. He hated it with a passion, but since his parents got deported, for no good reason, he's worn out from trying to finish school, working, and taking care of his two younger siblings. Fate, I guess you could say, drew him to that car with Caden and Rio wasn't going to let him back out in the streets. Something told him Caden just needed a hand up. Hell, he did too. And maybe they could help each other. And that's what happened. Caden learned to trust, and Rio had a friend. Eventually more. They were both each other's rocks. Their support system. They did everything they could to survive and raise those kids. And they were making it. Now if their 'luck’ would hold out, because they learned quick, they were much better together.
Caden broke my heart. Having being shoved out of his home. Asshole parents. I hate people like that. He was so scared. Alone. Lost. Thankfully he hadn't had to prostitute or do the drug thing, but he was getting desperate. Rio finding him when he did was the best. Of course for Caden, it was hard to trust. There were bad people out there he'd been trying to avoid for months. Rio seemed like a good guy but you never know. But when he finally let go and trusted, it made all the difference.
For Rio, man I went for him as well. Seventeen years old boy, forced to set aside his life and happiness to make sure he took care of his family. Which meant paying the mortgage, the bills, having food, clothes, etc. For a 17 year old to be thrown in that kind of situation, it's scary as hell. And most kids today wouldn't do it. Which in turn made me admire him. Both of them.
Caden came in to this situation and jumped in with both feet. He didn't hesitate to help. Rio even did things he shouldn't have done to save his family. He didn't do it for long, but he had to have help. These are some strong boys. Courageous. You never quite know the strength of your character until the situation calls for it. And these boys passed that test with flying colors. A really good book.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
August 16, 2020
Caden and Rio will always have my heart forever! Better Together (Rio is pictured on the cover) was the book that started my spiral and love of reading BL Maxwell's books. One cool fall day, it just popped up in my Amazon recommends queue, so I clicked on it and it blew my mind out of the water.
Caden and Rio are both in their final year of high-school in different parts of California when they inevitably meet. Through dualing POVs, you learn about each teenager's background and the circumstances of how they met.
Caden is seventeen when he is thrown out of his parent's home because they find a book with two men hugging on the cover. With only a backpack, some socks, some cash and extra clothes, Caden is dumped in the middle of nowhere by his father. He has to figure out how to survive on his own and stay alive. Rio's parents were deported and taken back to Mexico leaving Rio on his own to to take care of his younger sister and brother. The important thing is to keep the family together and that's what Rio does. The cash left behind by his parents is running low so when Rio is approached for a job breaking into cars and stealing them, he has no choice. One night he breaks into a car and finds Caden sleeping in the back seat. "The most beautiful boy I ever saw" is one of my favorite lines from this book and it really sets the stage for Rio and Caden's relationship. This is one of the sweetest books you'll ever read and yes, there are sad moments, but the sweetness and loveliness wins out.
Caden and Rio are both in their final year of high-school in different parts of California when they inevitably meet. Through dualing POVs, you learn about each teenager's background and the circumstances of how they met.
Caden is seventeen when he is thrown out of his parent's home because they find a book with two men hugging on the cover. With only a backpack, some socks, some cash and extra clothes, Caden is dumped in the middle of nowhere by his father. He has to figure out how to survive on his own and stay alive. Rio's parents were deported and taken back to Mexico leaving Rio on his own to to take care of his younger sister and brother. The important thing is to keep the family together and that's what Rio does. The cash left behind by his parents is running low so when Rio is approached for a job breaking into cars and stealing them, he has no choice. One night he breaks into a car and finds Caden sleeping in the back seat. "The most beautiful boy I ever saw" is one of my favorite lines from this book and it really sets the stage for Rio and Caden's relationship. This is one of the sweetest books you'll ever read and yes, there are sad moments, but the sweetness and loveliness wins out.
December 28, 2023
Caden was thrown out of his home and dropped off somewhere far away by his parents for being gay and now lives on the streets. He found an unlocked car and decided to fall asleep in it only to be interrupted by Rio stealing the car. Riding along Caden soon discovers that first impressions sometimes don't count after he is taken home and given food and a shower. Seventeen Damario has been raising his little brother and younger sister since their parents were deported. He never knew until then how hard it would be to pay bills and make sure they were all fed until he had to hold the family together on his own. He never expected or wanted to steal cars but the money is very useful. He could never have realised that saving Caden was saving himself too. When Damario’s world starts to fall apart, they both realize that the answer to all of their problems is helping each other and although the world tries to drive them apart, they are better together.
I loved this story with the way that both young men did everything that they could to care for the children and protect them I loved how Caden used the internet to understand how couponing worked as well as how to cook certain things. Their love story was a gentle one to start with but very passionate at the end. I loved their devotion to the kids and each other. Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MM story with mature content.
I loved this story with the way that both young men did everything that they could to care for the children and protect them I loved how Caden used the internet to understand how couponing worked as well as how to cook certain things. Their love story was a gentle one to start with but very passionate at the end. I loved their devotion to the kids and each other. Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MM story with mature content.
June 29, 2021
This is quite an emotional story for both MC's of the story. Caden has been thrown out by his parents and now lives on the streets and Rio's parents were deported with no warning and it has left him looking after his twelve year old sister and six year old brother. Both young men are seventeen and had few life experiences before having this thrust upon them. Rio finds Caden one night and takes him back to his home, offering a shower, some food and a sofa for the night.
There is instinctual trust between them from the start and together, they take steps forward to build a safe unit where they can rely on themselves and each other to provide a life for them all.
I really enjoyed this story. There is vulnerability, insecurities and emotional pain but it is very well balanced by having determination, empathy, kindness and love. Caden and Rio are both only seventeen and whilst that is quite old for a teenager, there is still so much they haven't experienced and so are also quite naive in places. Each has a different history and different family life with Rio's always being full of love and support whilst Caden only really felt that from his younger sister, not trusting his true self to his parents. The younger siblings of the story all bring love and warmth, and a little early teen attitude, but it really adds to the sense of family and how much you are willing to do for those you love.
Definitely a recommended read and I am going straight into the short novella that follows on for the couple..
There is instinctual trust between them from the start and together, they take steps forward to build a safe unit where they can rely on themselves and each other to provide a life for them all.
I really enjoyed this story. There is vulnerability, insecurities and emotional pain but it is very well balanced by having determination, empathy, kindness and love. Caden and Rio are both only seventeen and whilst that is quite old for a teenager, there is still so much they haven't experienced and so are also quite naive in places. Each has a different history and different family life with Rio's always being full of love and support whilst Caden only really felt that from his younger sister, not trusting his true self to his parents. The younger siblings of the story all bring love and warmth, and a little early teen attitude, but it really adds to the sense of family and how much you are willing to do for those you love.
Definitely a recommended read and I am going straight into the short novella that follows on for the couple..
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