Xanthe's Reviews > Something Good

A new series from Melody Claire that brings an emotional story for two best friends at three different periods of their lives together. Sammy's character breaks my heart with what he and his younger brother, Jimmy, go through with their home life and the neglect and abandonment they experience with their mother. What becomes a saving grace for Sammy is Will, his childhood best friend who moved away several years ago but is now back for the summer. Sammy has, understandably, become angry at the world, stubborn in his need to do things himself and unable to trust in others but Will has this easy way of just knocking down his walls. When it comes to adulthood after another few years apart, past hurts have changed both men but Will is the one that needs Sammy to step up this time.
From the start, these two young men have a bond the surpasses time, pain and separation, from young boys to men who have experienced all that life has to offer and brings them together again when they are both in a place accept what they need - each other.
This story had a big impact on me with the trigger warnings resonating but the author has written it so well. You can't help but be drawn into their friendship, the highs and lows that they experience individually and together. Sammy feels the need to protect others at his own expense, only wanting the best for them whilst struggling to survive himself. Will is so giving and has a wonderful, sunshine personality that when he is suffering, I felt that really hard.
There is a brilliant supporting cast. Will's mum is so warm and caring, the complete opposite to Sammy and Jimmy's, and his friend Jason is there as back up for every good and bad decision during that summer. Sammy's support system, apart from Will, comes later on in life and it's a heartwarming moment to read that he let other people in.
I cannot recommend this story enough for those who will enjoy an emotional, angsty ride with two best friends who come back together at different times in their lives. Please ensure to read the book's trigger warnings.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.