More Than Anything by Shawn Lane
Amber Quill Press – Amber Allure
Contemporary M/M
ISBN: 978-1-61124-196-9
Reviewed by Lisa

Raised by a loving mother and grandparents Shayne Ralston came out in his early teens though he certainly didn’t profess his sexuality too loudly in high school.

At one point Desmond Stratton felt that he came from a somewhat cohesive family, but over time they each splintered off into separate lives. The only thing his parents seemed to agree on and be happy about was their son’s skill with a football in high school.

Running into each other in college leaves Shayne tongue tied and thinking about the crush he had on Des in high school. Shayne figures the popular football player wouldn’t remember him or want anything to do with the gay geek. Little does he realize that Des is very interested and thought Shayne was hot even in high school.

The last thing Des could do while in college is announce that he’s gay. Coming out would probably ruin the possibility of a pro career and his parents are already mentally spending the money he’d make which adds to the pressure. The more Des gets to know Shayne the more he wishes things could be different. Whatever Des decides to do will impact the rest of his life and Shayne’s as well.

More Than Anything confronts tough questions that can affect people for a lifetime. Making decisions or choices have far reaching consequences for Des and by association of love, Shayne. The emotional battle is keenly felt by readers as Des struggles to make the future right for the lovers. Whether he has the backbone to see it though is the question, but at least he has Shayne’s tender trust. A very sensual story, More Than Anything showcases great characters and a hopeful outcome.