Read More Sleep Less Blog: Friday guest reviewer Mona: Illumination by Rowan Speedwell

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

**Mild Spoilers**

He held his emotions so close to the surface, so honest, so open.

Illumination is a story about two opposite men, from two completely different worlds, that manage to find each other and form an unbreakable connection.

Adam, a lead singer of a famous rock band, comes from a very public and loud life style. He finds himself seeking solitude, away from the chaos of an after party, surrounded by people only seeing him for his fame. Winds up at Indian lake, where he used to visit as a child, remembering happy memories he shared with family and friends. High and drunk from the substances he partook at the party, Adam seeks shelter on a cottage porch, near the lake.

Miles, a hermit that hasn't left his house in 10 years, lives a very antisocial life consisting of work, his bird Grace and the weekly visit from his sister Lisa. Comfortable in following his usual daily routine, Miles is very surprised and angry to find a stranger sleeping on the chase on his porch. And from there, everything changes for Adam and Miles.

Attraction, understanding of each other and the need for genuine companionship, leads Adam and Miles to form a deep connection, rendering them inseparable, even when it’s impossible to continue on together

The intimacy shared between Adam and Miles, was different to what I expected. It was like the two exchanged roles. Adam showed a more vulnerable side, giving in to the pleasure of being with Miles. While Miles, seemed more in control of the intimacy, in a way dominant. Leading the way with confidences, where he’s usual self is more reserved and unsure.

Miles and Adam experience the hardship of separation. With Adam committed to his career and responsibilities, and Miles fear and reasons for not being able to leave his home on the lake (which I won’t spoil), leaves both with no choice but to lead separate lives.

I felt for both of these men, the pain Adam felt from Miles pushing him away and cutting communication off. To Miles, feeling confusion on where he stands with Adam, and seeking ways to protect himself from the hurt of Adam forgetting him.

Miles and Adam's story, is a sweet and likable read. I really enjoyed the chemistry and love between the characters. And was engaged and intrigued from the beginning to end.

My only issue would have to be the word 'dude'. I usually don't mind things like that, but in this case, I felt it made the characters seem...immature. I would have loved to read about Miles (view spoiler) But I also understand that it wasn't possible for him to cope with changes like that.