Michael's Awakening (Awakening #1)

One moment. That's all it takes for life as you once knew it to change irrevocably. For Michael Kingston, that moment was when he first laid eyes on Gabriel. In his life, Michael had only known darkness, leaving behind a broken shell of a man. No one had ever shown him love; therefore, he believed he was unworthy of it.
And then everything changed.

Gabriel Greyson had always been different. Growing up in a small, Bible thumping town, his preferences for men, make-up, and fashion made him an outcast. But with the support and love of his family, he overcame obstacles that were thrown his way and rose above the intolerance. Working as a beautician, he had a job he adored and felt everything was perfect in his life.
Everything except for true love.

When these two unlikely men meet, sparks fly. For the first time in Michael's life, he feels he can overcome the darkness. Gabriel gives him hope and slowly brings him out of the shadows, showing him that even the darkest of souls can be redeemed.

But there are secrets Michael keeps locked away. His fear is that Gabriel will turn away from him when he discovers the truth. After all, who could ever love a beast?

*Trigger warning: this book discusses past trauma and abuse.*