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Newmanreviews... The Trouble Boy by Tom Dolby |
 The Trouble Boy by Tom Dolby Kensington Pub Corp; (March 2004) ISBN: 075820616X
| Tom Dolby’s
first effort, The
Trouble Boy, is definitely worth your time to read. His
characters are fully developed, the plot is clear enough, and has just
the right amount of conflict throughout. Dolby’s
handling of
conversation, descriptions, and story flow are outstanding. A
major conflict appears at just the right time, and becomes the
undercurrent for the rest of the book. The major character, Toby, has a troubling past, where he is unjustly accused of raping his college roommate and lapses into a lifelong depression, thus the title of the book. From this very unsettling event in his background, that he deals with by pushing it out of his mind as if it were someone else, he develops into a struggling young man. He struggles for a career, worthy friends, and a monogamous relationship. In a GLBT world of cosmopolitan superficiality, all of his goals are met with the challenge of having to sift through those who would use him for their own needs. Although the book is excellent, the ending of the book is a bit disappointing. While Toby finally finds love, the relationship is left without a feeling of commitment; the major plot development is left hanging; and the final scene with Toby’s mother is left lukewarm. In a world that craves happy, or at least emotional endings, the reader is left wanting more. If Dolby’s next book is intended to be a sequel, these needs may be resolved, but The Trouble Boy is left with a troubled ending. Even though the ending is left with open issues, the book is still a good one. If you identify with gay life in the big city, a cosmopolitan lifestyle, and trendy banter, this book is for you. If you identify with overcoming a troubled background, this book is also for you. If you enjoy seeing someone on the hunt for a loving, dedicated relationship, then read this book! This is definitely a “page turner.” Just don’t be too disappointed by the ending. |