Book Review: RENT by Rick R. Reed

Reviewer: Bob Lind, Echo Magazine
Publisher: MLR Press, September 2012
Pages: 236

Twenty-three year old Wren Gallagher is not having a good day, having just lost his dead-end customer service job, had his wallet possibly stolen, and facing the prospect of finding a new place to live. He goes to Tricks, a local gay bar, to unwind a bit, where he attracts the attention of an older man who tries to recruit him for his business, an elite escort service for high income individuals. Wren initially rejects the idea, but later contacts him to get more details. He meets one of the other escorts, and makes a connection with him that he never would have imagined. Unfortunately, he soon learns of a deep dark secret of the business, one that is providing to be dangerous for the young men in its employ. 

Rick R. Reed is a master of great gay YA novels with great characters, and this is no exception. Part unique romance, part engaging mystery, "Rent" is a well-written treat which should be on your reading list. Five stars out of five. 

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