by Alex and Chelsi (link)
Genre cest, drama, romance
Pairings Taylor/OFC, Zaylor
Length prologue and 47 chapters
Status Unfinished
When I read a story that has been left unfinished for years, it’s always with a sense of trepidation. I know that I’m going to be at least somewhat disappointed and frustrated when I reach the end (that isn’t really the end). Hate This Place came recommended, though, and I really like Chelsi’s writing, so I went into this story with a little more hope that I could enjoy it in spite of the lack of ending.
The story has a bit of a unique structure. You’ll notice that I have 47 chapters listed, while the community only shows it going up to 24. That’s because each chapter actually has two parts — one from Zac’s point of view and one from Taylor’s. Each of the co-authors, then, tackles a different brother’s POV. This is a technique I’ve used myself for co-writing, and I think it’s very effective here. Both brothers have distinct, beautiful voices that feel more like they’re talking to you than like you’re reading something. At the same time, their voices blend together so well that, had I not known, I wouldn’t have guessed that two authors were involved.
There’s a lot about Hate This Place that’s different from your typical Zaylor. It’s an AU setting, for one, where the boys aren’t famous at all, don’t have any other siblings and live alone with their father. Their lower class surroundings remind me just a little of The Outsiders, which I’ve always loved and is intricately connected in my mind to my love of Hanson and Tulsa. On top of all that, Zac and Taylor are already together before the story begins.
If my description isn’t enough of a hint, then let me put it plainly. Hate This Place is not a happy funtime story. Sure, there are cute, sentimental moments between Zac and Taylor. But it’s not the sort of story I would recommend to someone who was looking for a light, feel good read. It’s a pretty emotional ride, but it’s worth it, even if it does stop on one hell of a cliffhanger.
Review by Bethany (website)