This is my first time reading a book by Douglas Stuart and now I think I have to read his others, too. While John of John wasn't a book I`d consider an easy read, it was so engaging that it was hard to put it down and go to sleep. You become a part of this tight-knit community on the Isle of Harris that is stuck in old ways in the late 90s. Traditional crofting is still a big part, just as their religion. Cohesion and gossip make a fascinating dynamic, especially in a community like this. The characters are flawed and can be incedribly stubborn. But each and everyone of those Islanders has their own background and secrets that makes you understand why they are the way they are. I didn't really sympathise wit Cal as much as with others, but I can understand that he's only 22 years old, he's torn between hate and love for his family and the Island that is his home, his sexuality and harsh, demanding religious beliefs. Cal not being the only one in this position added much more tension and it was so painful at times, since all these people want is to be loved and accepted the way they are. This is a book I can definitely recommend and it's a highlight for me. As I said, it might not be easy but it gives you and interesting, sometimes painful perspective of gay people in a religious community and what it's like to want more from life than your family might want you to have.