By J.C.

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Exceedingly Visual, and Full of Nuances,

Dak Kopec’s writing style is unique and magnificent. His gift for descriptive writing allows the reader to see the story in their mind. The book’s beginning moves slowly because the author skillfully plants clues of things to come while introducing the characters and plot lines. Once I plunged into the depth of the book, I could not put it down; always wondering what was around the next corner. Be aware that each chapter title provides a clue to the situations, possible questions, and even some answers to be revealed.

As I read this novel, I had to be careful of the assumptions I made along the way; some did play out as I guessed, but most did not. Kopec masterfully weaved surprises into each subplot that made me stop and think. Some of these surprises were so wild and fascinating I said aloud, “WOW!!!” I laud the author for his ability to interlace many subtle clues and nuances throughout the book that propel the story forward. I admit I was intrigued because I never knew how each scenario might change as the author took me on a roller coaster ride of situations and emotions full of twists, turns, highs, and lows.

Another feature of this book that is critical to mention is how the author includes subtle words of wisdom about the meaning of life while bringing awareness to socio-cultural biases. Again, he is masterful at addressing numerous contemporary political and social issues that play out in the lives of so many people without directly commenting or pushing an agenda. Instead, these words of wisdom are skillfully incorporated within a series of humorous and thoughtful dialogues. These features formed the essence of this book. There were many instances where I paused to consider my thoughts on the numerous topics addressed by the author.

I truly enjoyed every word of Broken Boys: Beyond Friendships, but in my opinion; the title does not do justice to the spectacular and intriguing character development or plot line(s). Yes, the boys started as “Broken” in some way, but as their lives proceed through the tangles and intertwining events of life’s journey, the pieces of their lives slowly come back together. I think the second portion of the title, Beyond Friendships, more aptly describes all of the characters—their personality quirks and how they mature physically and emotionally from high schoolers to young adults.

Dak Kopec’s writing style is easy to follow, exceedingly visual, and full of nuances. He takes the reader beyond the written word and into the realm of visual reading. Yes, this book would make a captivating film!

I look forward to a sequel and the continuation of this fantastic representation of modern writing.

My final assessment is that Broken Boys: Beyond Friendships is a captivating five-star read!