Paris sees things as colours, and this expresses itself in his art. He is traumatised, and is compelled to paint the horrors in his head, the traumatic memories.

Because of his mental condition, his art is abstract, and is seen by others as 'pretty'. His older sister is his manager, and they are both exceedingly rich as a result of Paris' art. However, it disturbs Paris that other people are paying for and enjoying depictions of his horrors. Meanwhile, his sister has managed to get legal control of him and misuses this control to metaphorically and literally prostitute him.

Paris meets Roy, and they start a relationship. Paris is very good at 'faking normal', so Roy doesn't notice anything wrong with him for a while. Roy, however, finds Paris' paintings very disturbing. He sees Paris as a rich man who desperately needs love, and starts introducing him to simple pleasures.

The relationship develops, and obviously Roy becomes aware of Paris' mental issues. He does his best to help Paris, but the older sister doesn't want him treated. If he's better, then he doesn't see colours the same way and he doesn't paint, ergo, he doesn't make any money. But Paris doesn't know a world without colours and even he's not entirely sure he wants to be better. But he does need to be safe.

While the plot of this story is twisted and certainly strong enough to carry the novel, this is very much a character-driven story. Paris is incredibly interesting, and lent himself to some beautiful writing.

It's an utterly compelling story, and Paris is a fascinating character. The writing is beautiful. This is a story that will touch your heart and stay with you. Five stars.

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Created Aug 10, 2019 at 4:53am • Submit your own review...