A.M. Arthur's What You Own is a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and the complexities of forgiveness. Set against the backdrop of a small community and the world of musical theater, the novel deftly navigates the emotional landscape of two young men whose lives were irrevocably altered by a violent event in their past. The narrative is both a tender romance and a profound commentary on the impact of trauma and the power of reconciliation.

The story is centered around Ryan and Adam, two characters whose lives are intricately intertwined. Ryan, having moved from Texas to the north, finds himself isolated until he meets Adam Langley. Their friendship quickly becomes the cornerstone of Ryan's life, but a brutal gay bashing incident tears them apart before their relationship can evolve into something more. Fast forward four years, and fate conspires to bring them back together for a fundraiser, forcing them to confront their unresolved feelings and the painful memories of their past.

One of the novel's most compelling aspects is its exploration of identity and self-acceptance. Ryan's journey is particularly poignant as he grapples with the aftermath of the attack and the loss of his friendship with Adam. His character is a testament to resilience, as he strives to build a life for himself while carrying the scars of his past. Arthur's portrayal of Ryan is nuanced and empathetic, capturing the internal conflict of a young man trying to reconcile who he is with who he wants to be.

Adam, on the other hand, is a character caught between his desires and his obligations. His plan to survive his internship with his homophobic father's company and secure his trust fund is a reflection of the societal pressures many LGBTQ+ individuals face. The tension between Adam's public persona and his private self is palpable, and Arthur skillfully depicts his struggle to balance these conflicting aspects of his identity. The novel's exploration of family dynamics and the impact of societal expectations adds depth to Adam's character and highlights the broader challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth.

The chemistry between Ryan and Adam is electric, and their shared love of musical theater serves as a beautiful metaphor for their relationship. The theater becomes a safe space where they can express their true selves, free from the judgment and prejudice of the outside world. This shared passion not only rekindles their connection but also serves as a healing force, allowing them to confront their past and move forward together.

Arthur's writing is both lyrical and evocative, capturing the emotional intensity of Ryan and Adam's journey. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, reflecting the characters' deep-seated emotions and the complexity of their relationship. The novel's pacing is well-balanced, with moments of tension and introspection interspersed with lighter, more humorous scenes that provide relief from the heavier themes.

One of the novel's strengths is its realistic portrayal of trauma and healing. Arthur does not shy away from depicting the lasting impact of violence, and the novel's warning about mentions of past violence is a testament to the author's sensitivity to these issues. The characters' journey toward healing is portrayed with honesty and compassion, emphasizing the importance of support and understanding in overcoming trauma.

In comparison to other works in the LGBTQ+ romance genre, What You Own stands out for its depth and emotional resonance. While many romance novels focus primarily on the romantic relationship, Arthur's novel delves deeper, exploring the broader themes of identity, forgiveness, and the search for belonging. The novel's emphasis on character development and its exploration of complex themes make it a standout in the genre.

For readers who appreciate stories that blend romance with social commentary, What You Own is a must-read. It is a novel that not only entertains but also challenges readers to reflect on their own beliefs and assumptions. The characters' journey is a reminder of the power of love and forgiveness, and the novel's hopeful conclusion is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

In conclusion, A.M. Arthur's What You Own is a beautifully crafted novel that offers a compelling exploration of love, identity, and the journey toward healing. With its richly developed characters and its thoughtful exploration of complex themes, it is a novel that will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned. Whether you are a fan of romance or simply appreciate a well-told story, What You Own is a novel that deserves a place on your reading list.