The Remaking of Corbin Wale by Roan Parrish (review)

The Remaking of Corbin Wale

by Roan Parrish

Blurb:

 

A 2017 Riptide Holiday Charity Novel

Last month, Alex Barrow’s whole life imploded—partner, home, job, all gone in forty-eight hours. But sometimes when everything falls apart, better things appear almost like magic. Now, he’s back in his Michigan hometown, finally opening the bakery he’s always dreamed of. But the pleasure of opening day is nothing compared to the lonely and beautiful man who bewitches Alex before he even orders.

Corbin Wale is a weirdo. At least, that’s what he’s heard his whole life. He knows he’s often in a fantasy world, but the things he feels are very real. And so is the reason why he can never, ever be with Alex Barrow. Even if Alex is everything he’s always fantasized about. Even if maybe, just maybe, Corbin is Alex’s fantasy too.

When Corbin begins working at the bakery, he and Alex can’t deny their connection any longer. As the holiday season works its magic, Alex yearns for the man who seems out of reach. But to be with Alex, Corbin will have to challenge every truth he’s ever known. If his holiday risk pays off, two men from different worlds will get the love they’ve always longed for.

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My review:

4.5 out of 5 stars

The Remaking of Corbin Wale by Roan Parrish follows baker Alex Barrow after his life is turned upside down and he finds a way to start anew. His patient interactions with the almost fey Corbin Wale provide a turning point for both of them, but there may be insurmountable obstacles to them having a deeper relationship. The book is divided according to the four elements (earth, water, fire, and water) and the point of view shifts as the element shifts, from one main character to the other. A portion of the profits from this story will support the Russian LGBT network.

This m/m contemporary romance is a gentle romance with a touch of otherworldliness. The connection that forms between two injured souls…one of whom has seen things clearly yet been called a weirdo for most of his life…is lovely to watch develop. I like the care and consideration that Alex shows for the wary Corbin and the way he strives to understand the other man even as he shows his affection through his baked creations. Corbin’s struggle with the truth that has been passed down through his family makes him understandably wary of entering into a relationship, and his coping mechanisms that set him apart from most people make him a very unique individual.

I enjoyed the slow burn that escalates into a sensual relationship and the evolution of each character’s growth. Alex’s best friend was a little abrasive at first but did redeem himself, and I really want to know how his situation turns out, so I hope he stars in the next book! I learned about the celebration of Chanukah (and want to taste some of the traditional dishes, lol), and I am intrigued by Corbin’s idea for a way to deal with negativity. The author paints wonderful word portraits and creates vivid characters, and this is another great example.

A copy of this title was provided to me for review, a version of which has been submitted to Night Owl Reviews