When someone has risked everything to be with you, will you rise to the challenge of saving them?
In the autumn of 1997, Bogdan is a teenage Yugoslavian refugee who fled his country at just eleven to claim asylum in Italy. He does not know the fate of his family, so he mainly relies on his old school friend Alessia, whose father employs him during the summer, and her boyfriend Guido, who is also his social worker.
A regular at the Caffe Fratelli where Bogdan works, James has lived in Italy for a couple of years escaping family problems after dropping out of University. He works as a cruise crew member, spending his time in between contracts sofa surfing at Guido’s, who grew up in James’ native Bristol.
After breaking up with his lover, James goes on a path of self-destruction, neglecting his health. Bogdan tries to help him, and they begin an on-off relationship with disastrous consequences. Unable to let go despite knowing that James doesn’t take him seriously, Bogdan decides to travel to England with James to help him save the family business when his father becomes sick. But when the authorities come to deport Bogdan for overstaying his visitor visa, will James rise to the challenge of saving the boy who risked everything to be with him?
★★★★
reedsy review
A calming and turmultuous book if there ever was one! It has more than four hundred pages but is made up of very short chapters that are divided into seasons. Because of this, it doesn’t feel like too much. The plot develops at a glacial pace which the short chapters allow to feel a lot more progressive than they actually are. If quick demonstrations of the effects of trauma and shortly-described sexual assault would be salt on a wound, rather save this read for later. Other than that, this was a great read that many young adults might enjoy.
★★★★
Barnes & Noble review
‘To Be Fair’ is a truly intriguing and beautiful story set against the backdrop of migrant crisis and troubles faced by the LGBT community. The author has done a fantastic job of portraying the characters of Bogdan and James and the trials and tribulations they face to finally find peace and acceptance. I would recommend this book to everyone. It is so relevant in today’s era and the problems we see in the community. We need such heartfelt stories to create more awareness.
★★★★★
Barnes & Noble review
Overall, the story demonstrates notable strengths in its characterizations, evocative settings, thematic depth, and emotional resonance. James and Bogdan’s journeys of self-discovery and relationship are portrayed with sensitivity and complexity, offering a poignant exploration of identity and cultural heritage. Their relationship is compelling.
