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Actors and Angels #1
Drama Queens with Love Scenes
Close friends Allan and Warwick are dead. They’re not crazy about the idea, so to help them deal with this dilemma are Samantha, a blond bombshell from the 1950s, and Guy, an insecure angel.
Allan also has a secret. He has a romantic crush on his friend, Warwick, but shortly after confiding in his new angel pal, his love interest falls for the cock-sure playwright, Pedro.
Not only does Allan have to win the heart of his companion, he also has to grapple with the faded memory of how he actually died.
Allan also has a secret. He has a romantic crush on his friend, Warwick, but shortly after confiding in his new angel pal, his love interest falls for the cock-sure playwright, Pedro.
Not only does Allan have to win the heart of his companion, he also has to grapple with the faded memory of how he actually died.
221 pages, ebook
Published April 17, 2017
6 people are currently reading
562 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Klehr
20 books148 followersKevin lives with his husband, Warren, in their humble apartment (affectionately named Sabrina), in Australia’s own ‘Emerald City,’ Sydney.
His tall tales explore unrequited love in the theatre district of the Afterlife, romance between a dreamer and a realist, and a dystopian city addicted to social media.
His first novel, Drama Queens with Love Scenes, spawned a secondary character named Guy. Many readers argue that Guy, the insecure gay angel, is the star of the Actors and Angels book series. His popularity surprised the author. The third in this series, Drama Queens and Devilish Schemes, scored a Rainbow Award (judged by fans of queer fiction) for Best Gay Alternative Universe/Reality novel.
His novel, The Midnight Man, scored first place in the LGBT category of the Paranormal Romance Guild's Reviewer's Choice Awards, as well as winning the Fantasy category of the 2021 Gay Scribe Awards.
So, with his fictional guardian angel guiding him, Kevin hopes to bring more whimsical tales of love, life and friendship to his readers.
His tall tales explore unrequited love in the theatre district of the Afterlife, romance between a dreamer and a realist, and a dystopian city addicted to social media.
His first novel, Drama Queens with Love Scenes, spawned a secondary character named Guy. Many readers argue that Guy, the insecure gay angel, is the star of the Actors and Angels book series. His popularity surprised the author. The third in this series, Drama Queens and Devilish Schemes, scored a Rainbow Award (judged by fans of queer fiction) for Best Gay Alternative Universe/Reality novel.
His novel, The Midnight Man, scored first place in the LGBT category of the Paranormal Romance Guild's Reviewer's Choice Awards, as well as winning the Fantasy category of the 2021 Gay Scribe Awards.
So, with his fictional guardian angel guiding him, Kevin hopes to bring more whimsical tales of love, life and friendship to his readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 20, 2014
This is a terrific read. A bit different. Initially it took some getting invested in the characters and the segues between the Afterlife and life, but I got there and then it was full-steam ahead. The characters are larger than life, camp, fun, and, although not the same, I was reminded just a smidge of the fabulous Looking After Joey when reading. I guess it's the humour and the theatre references and the vibe. I do find it interesting to read words like clanger in my books, really Aussie. From Port Macquarie, to Balmain, Dulwich Hill to Melbourne, I've been there and I know them. It isn't that any region is geographically important, it's just nice for me to know these places.
I liked Allan, the book's primary voice. Could he have been more communicative? Well, yes. That's okay, it's part of the deal with the book. He grows. There are things to learn. It's all in the subtext, darling.
Warwick - sometimes I wondered 'why all the fuss over you?' I do get that love is like that - we don't see the lovable bits in some as much as others seem to.
Pedro - I could have slapped him from here into next year.
Guy, the grey-winged angel, is gorgeous.
The women are strong, which ever way you look at them - Samantha, Maudi, Monique, Wilma...
There is a mystery and whys about how Allan and Warwick ended up in the Afterlife, or as Allan likes to call it, post-normal life. You'd think once you aredead post-normal, people would leave you alone.
Book two should be interesting.
Longer review at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
I liked Allan, the book's primary voice. Could he have been more communicative? Well, yes. That's okay, it's part of the deal with the book. He grows. There are things to learn. It's all in the subtext, darling.
Warwick - sometimes I wondered 'why all the fuss over you?' I do get that love is like that - we don't see the lovable bits in some as much as others seem to.
Pedro - I could have slapped him from here into next year.
Guy, the grey-winged angel, is gorgeous.
The women are strong, which ever way you look at them - Samantha, Maudi, Monique, Wilma...
There is a mystery and whys about how Allan and Warwick ended up in the Afterlife, or as Allan likes to call it, post-normal life. You'd think once you are
Book two should be interesting.
Longer review at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
October 21, 2014
I Loved it! I was wrapped up in this story from the beginning to end. I could only walk away from it when I had no other choice.
Before I get into the reasons that I loved it, let me say that the name of the book, I Kissed a Dog, had my attention from the moment I heard it. I knew that I had to read it being the werewolf loving reader that I am. Also what about the cover? Awesome isn't it.
Okay that said, let me tell you the other reasons that I loved this story.
First of all, this is the first book in a new paranormal romance series. The main focus was werewolves although there were vampires and other creatures. Need I mention that this is my favorite type of book and werewolves are my favorite type of supernatural creatures?
Second, the characters had realistic characteristics which is always a plus in my book. Carol had every type of character from the mean spirited girls that we love to hate, to the creepy character that keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering if they are friend or foe. The main character Chloe, was easy to like and root on. I had a weakness for the Alpha males and there were plenty of those in this book! Zane and his merry men had that protective, dominating thing going for them!
Third, the plot had all of my favorite things. There were supernatural beings, romance, suspense, action, intrigue, and twists and turns galore!
Fourth, the words flowed together seamlessly with the exception of a typo here or there. It was easy to understand and the chapters were nicely spaced, not too long or short.
Fifth, the story had a never ending supply of new circumstances and characters to decipher. It is impossible to get bored while reading this book. :D Chloe fights her attraction to Zane but circumstances demand that they spend more time together and a girl can only resist for so long. Everytime I thought I knew what was coming, a new twist would happen and I was left wondering again. It was awesome!
I thought this book was great. I whole heartedly urge all paranormal romance readers to add this to your TBR list. Trust me, you don't want to miss this one!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I honestly can't wait to read the next book in the series, I Kissed a Vampire.
Before I get into the reasons that I loved it, let me say that the name of the book, I Kissed a Dog, had my attention from the moment I heard it. I knew that I had to read it being the werewolf loving reader that I am. Also what about the cover? Awesome isn't it.
Okay that said, let me tell you the other reasons that I loved this story.
First of all, this is the first book in a new paranormal romance series. The main focus was werewolves although there were vampires and other creatures. Need I mention that this is my favorite type of book and werewolves are my favorite type of supernatural creatures?
Second, the characters had realistic characteristics which is always a plus in my book. Carol had every type of character from the mean spirited girls that we love to hate, to the creepy character that keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering if they are friend or foe. The main character Chloe, was easy to like and root on. I had a weakness for the Alpha males and there were plenty of those in this book! Zane and his merry men had that protective, dominating thing going for them!
Third, the plot had all of my favorite things. There were supernatural beings, romance, suspense, action, intrigue, and twists and turns galore!
Fourth, the words flowed together seamlessly with the exception of a typo here or there. It was easy to understand and the chapters were nicely spaced, not too long or short.
Fifth, the story had a never ending supply of new circumstances and characters to decipher. It is impossible to get bored while reading this book. :D Chloe fights her attraction to Zane but circumstances demand that they spend more time together and a girl can only resist for so long. Everytime I thought I knew what was coming, a new twist would happen and I was left wondering again. It was awesome!
I thought this book was great. I whole heartedly urge all paranormal romance readers to add this to your TBR list. Trust me, you don't want to miss this one!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I honestly can't wait to read the next book in the series, I Kissed a Vampire.
August 6, 2016
I received a free review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Allan and Warwick find themselves in the Afterlife. They don't know how they got there or how they died, but they soon settle in and meet new friends, including insecure angel Guy, playwright Pedro and failed 1950's movie star Samantha. Drawn into the Limelight Quarter, they begin to act in a play penned by Pedro, and that's where the drama begins. Warwick falls for Pedro and Allan finds himself jealous, as he's harbored a long-time crush on his friend that he's never found himself able to express. And when strange accidents start occurring at the theater, Allan thinks that perhaps somebody is out to get him...
There's something about Drama Queens With Love Scenes that drew me in right away. Perhaps it was the nature of this version of the Afterlife where drinking, flirting and drama is the norm, or perhaps it was Allan's witty insights on the strange things he sees that made me realize that Drama Queens With Love Scenes is like no other M/M romance I've ever read.
Told in first-person from Allan's perspective, we get to see his take on the weird world of the Afterlife and his views and suspicions about the strange characters he meets along the way. Often funny and moving, I found the first-person perspective made the story more intimate than if it had been told in typical third-person narrative. The characters are all well fleshed out, with a strong supporting cast. We have Guy, the angel who can't fly, Pedro, egotistical yet a poor playwright and of course Warwick, the object of Allan's affections who can't seem to make up his mind whether he loves Pedro or Allan.
As the drama unfolds, Allan grows as a person, learning to depend on himself and fight for what he wants out of life, earning Warwick's love. The surprising conclusion was both heartwarming and a little sad, but this is no tragedy - we are left with the knowledge that both of these characters will end up living happily-ever-after.
If I had to make a complaint, I would say that the book needed one more round of polish. In general I found the phrasing and description excellent, but in the second half especially I started to notice some grammar errors (they're instead of their, etc.). It wasn't a huge distraction, but it could use another edit to hammer out those few mistakes. I did notice that my review copy is named Drama Queens rough draft, so these issues may have been fixed for the final version, but I can't confirm that so I have to mention it in this review.
If you're looking for a dramatic, campy take on the Afterlife with some sweet romance, drama and laugh-out-loud humor, I highly recommend Drama Queens With Love Scenes. The author states that he is working on a sequel, and I personally am looking forward to it. This was a wonderful read to light up a dismal weekend and comes highly recommended.
This review was cross-posted to Infinite Love.
Allan and Warwick find themselves in the Afterlife. They don't know how they got there or how they died, but they soon settle in and meet new friends, including insecure angel Guy, playwright Pedro and failed 1950's movie star Samantha. Drawn into the Limelight Quarter, they begin to act in a play penned by Pedro, and that's where the drama begins. Warwick falls for Pedro and Allan finds himself jealous, as he's harbored a long-time crush on his friend that he's never found himself able to express. And when strange accidents start occurring at the theater, Allan thinks that perhaps somebody is out to get him...
There's something about Drama Queens With Love Scenes that drew me in right away. Perhaps it was the nature of this version of the Afterlife where drinking, flirting and drama is the norm, or perhaps it was Allan's witty insights on the strange things he sees that made me realize that Drama Queens With Love Scenes is like no other M/M romance I've ever read.
Told in first-person from Allan's perspective, we get to see his take on the weird world of the Afterlife and his views and suspicions about the strange characters he meets along the way. Often funny and moving, I found the first-person perspective made the story more intimate than if it had been told in typical third-person narrative. The characters are all well fleshed out, with a strong supporting cast. We have Guy, the angel who can't fly, Pedro, egotistical yet a poor playwright and of course Warwick, the object of Allan's affections who can't seem to make up his mind whether he loves Pedro or Allan.
As the drama unfolds, Allan grows as a person, learning to depend on himself and fight for what he wants out of life, earning Warwick's love. The surprising conclusion was both heartwarming and a little sad, but this is no tragedy - we are left with the knowledge that both of these characters will end up living happily-ever-after.
If I had to make a complaint, I would say that the book needed one more round of polish. In general I found the phrasing and description excellent, but in the second half especially I started to notice some grammar errors (they're instead of their, etc.). It wasn't a huge distraction, but it could use another edit to hammer out those few mistakes. I did notice that my review copy is named Drama Queens rough draft, so these issues may have been fixed for the final version, but I can't confirm that so I have to mention it in this review.
If you're looking for a dramatic, campy take on the Afterlife with some sweet romance, drama and laugh-out-loud humor, I highly recommend Drama Queens With Love Scenes. The author states that he is working on a sequel, and I personally am looking forward to it. This was a wonderful read to light up a dismal weekend and comes highly recommended.
This review was cross-posted to Infinite Love.
June 30, 2013
My Rant:
Drama Queens with Love Scenes was an interesting but unique story. I have never read a story quite like this before so it took some time or me to work myself into the story. The story line starts out with Warwick and Allen finding out that they are in the afterlife. As the reader we are left to out own devices to formulate how in the world did they get there in the first place and the irony is that the character do not have a clue either.
The story is written from Allan's POV but the intriguing thing about the characters is that they all had personality and the title is a bit of an understatement. But they all contributed something to the story but the character I would have liked to have had more of a background story was Guy. Some how the bits and pieced we get from this character was enough to make you feel for him on so many levels. Please don't take this the wrong way, I did like Allen and is struggle's but there was just something about Guy that completely entrapped me.
Allen was in love with Warwick and it was hard to see him work through those emotions of being close to someone that you just couldn't have the way you wanted to was just heart wrenching. This story shown through some of the trails that Allan faced that love is not easy. Sometimes it hearts like hell and what you think is good for you is not. Although there were times in this story where i am rooting for Allan and Warwick to be together but when you really get down to it they are just not meant to be with each other but it took Allan to find himself in order to figure that out while he had to endure watching Warwick find love within someone else.
While your on this journey of discovery with allen through the theatrics, you get to see Allan at his best and worst. There were times where I thought he was so whinny but if the roles where reversed, I had to ask myself would I react the same way. The author displayed all of Allan to you so that you could grasp where he was coming from and at the same time watch him develop into something great.
I really did enjoy this story but it took me to adjust to the authors creative style. WHen I say that this book is not a normal read, I meant just that. You have to have an open mind in reading this story. But once you dive in you won't be disappointed, there is gut wrenching agony, love, adoration, comedy, theatrics in an retro theme and its all going down heaven in this story and when a story has all those elements in them you just can not go wrong.
My Recommendation:
I rated this book 4 out of 5 Purple Rant Hearts because this storyline was unique and the author writing style was completely creative.
FTC Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the author, editor, publisher, or Promo Host. This is my honest opinion about this book and I did not receive any monetary compensation for writing this review nor was I obligated to write a positive one.
Drama Queens with Love Scenes was an interesting but unique story. I have never read a story quite like this before so it took some time or me to work myself into the story. The story line starts out with Warwick and Allen finding out that they are in the afterlife. As the reader we are left to out own devices to formulate how in the world did they get there in the first place and the irony is that the character do not have a clue either.
The story is written from Allan's POV but the intriguing thing about the characters is that they all had personality and the title is a bit of an understatement. But they all contributed something to the story but the character I would have liked to have had more of a background story was Guy. Some how the bits and pieced we get from this character was enough to make you feel for him on so many levels. Please don't take this the wrong way, I did like Allen and is struggle's but there was just something about Guy that completely entrapped me.
Allen was in love with Warwick and it was hard to see him work through those emotions of being close to someone that you just couldn't have the way you wanted to was just heart wrenching. This story shown through some of the trails that Allan faced that love is not easy. Sometimes it hearts like hell and what you think is good for you is not. Although there were times in this story where i am rooting for Allan and Warwick to be together but when you really get down to it they are just not meant to be with each other but it took Allan to find himself in order to figure that out while he had to endure watching Warwick find love within someone else.
While your on this journey of discovery with allen through the theatrics, you get to see Allan at his best and worst. There were times where I thought he was so whinny but if the roles where reversed, I had to ask myself would I react the same way. The author displayed all of Allan to you so that you could grasp where he was coming from and at the same time watch him develop into something great.
I really did enjoy this story but it took me to adjust to the authors creative style. WHen I say that this book is not a normal read, I meant just that. You have to have an open mind in reading this story. But once you dive in you won't be disappointed, there is gut wrenching agony, love, adoration, comedy, theatrics in an retro theme and its all going down heaven in this story and when a story has all those elements in them you just can not go wrong.
My Recommendation:
I rated this book 4 out of 5 Purple Rant Hearts because this storyline was unique and the author writing style was completely creative.
FTC Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the author, editor, publisher, or Promo Host. This is my honest opinion about this book and I did not receive any monetary compensation for writing this review nor was I obligated to write a positive one.
May 6, 2013
I am still puzzled by this book!! There were points in the story at which I wanted to have an Allan-type tantrum, slam my Kindle closed and never return to the book; then I would be so captivated by the plot and fall so deeply in love with the characters (READ: Allan and Guy!!) that the thought of being without them was overwhelming!
This book is testament to the fact that love is an emotion we have no control over, and I was unconvinced by Allan's relationship with Warwick - or maybe yet just Warwick's character itself. Their friendship is unhealthy, seemingly based purely on needs and desires, and hardly symbiotic. Warwick is one of the more selfish characters of the story which is why I felt he and Pedro deserved each other!
I would like to say know that I have made a special request for my very own Guy-angel!! :-) I love him and hope that he has his own starring role in the Drama Queens sequel . . .but why oh why Mr Klehr couldn't he and Allan have their very own HEA???!!!
Allan was like a child who needed shouting at some of the time but at others I loved his emotion, the humour he shared with Guy, the hotness and the self-confidence he gained! His ending was amazing, and I am so excited to see where Kevin Klehr takes him in the sequel.
Drama Queens and Love Scenes is set in an original and imaginative world of the author's creation, with a variety of character's ranging from the vindictive to the fun. The book is steamy, yet also emotional, and one I would definitely recommend.
This book is testament to the fact that love is an emotion we have no control over, and I was unconvinced by Allan's relationship with Warwick - or maybe yet just Warwick's character itself. Their friendship is unhealthy, seemingly based purely on needs and desires, and hardly symbiotic. Warwick is one of the more selfish characters of the story which is why I felt he and Pedro deserved each other!
I would like to say know that I have made a special request for my very own Guy-angel!! :-) I love him and hope that he has his own starring role in the Drama Queens sequel . . .but why oh why Mr Klehr couldn't he and Allan have their very own HEA???!!!
Allan was like a child who needed shouting at some of the time but at others I loved his emotion, the humour he shared with Guy, the hotness and the self-confidence he gained! His ending was amazing, and I am so excited to see where Kevin Klehr takes him in the sequel.
Drama Queens and Love Scenes is set in an original and imaginative world of the author's creation, with a variety of character's ranging from the vindictive to the fun. The book is steamy, yet also emotional, and one I would definitely recommend.
April 16, 2013
The start of this book finds us in a quite unique afterlife with the newly deceased Allan and Warwick. They’re not entirely sure how they got there but they have two guides to help them through the experience. To make matters even more complicated, not everyone is as friendly as they first appear.
The main character, Allan, is confused and disorientated. He feels like there is something he should do but he’s not entirely sure what. Allan’s confused as to what his relationship with Warwick is or was - they were best friends but he’s convinced there’s more to it than that. He and Warwick are drifting apart and that just feels wrong.
The characters are what make this story so enjoyable. The reader is introduced to an array of eccentric, flamboyant and unique individuals, each with their own agenda. I particularly enjoyed the developing relationship between Allan and Guy, the guardian angel who’s unable to fly!
Through the twists and turns of the story, there’s passion, intrigue and villainy. Old relationships are tested and new ones are formed. Allan is racing against time to make things right again and I had to keep reading to find out what happened next. The ending was unexpected and quite a shocker.
I’m hoping there’s more to come for Allan and Warwick and particularly, Guy.
(I received a copy of this book from the author for review purposes.)
The main character, Allan, is confused and disorientated. He feels like there is something he should do but he’s not entirely sure what. Allan’s confused as to what his relationship with Warwick is or was - they were best friends but he’s convinced there’s more to it than that. He and Warwick are drifting apart and that just feels wrong.
The characters are what make this story so enjoyable. The reader is introduced to an array of eccentric, flamboyant and unique individuals, each with their own agenda. I particularly enjoyed the developing relationship between Allan and Guy, the guardian angel who’s unable to fly!
Through the twists and turns of the story, there’s passion, intrigue and villainy. Old relationships are tested and new ones are formed. Allan is racing against time to make things right again and I had to keep reading to find out what happened next. The ending was unexpected and quite a shocker.
I’m hoping there’s more to come for Allan and Warwick and particularly, Guy.
(I received a copy of this book from the author for review purposes.)
February 1, 2013
When I saw the title of this book and read the little description, I was not really expecting what I actually got. I was expecting 'Nelly, Gay Fluff.' Instead, I got a truly magical story with a lot of heart, well thought out and memorable characters, an intriguing plot and a 'heavenly' setting.
The book did start out a little slow and kind of scattered, but once the main story and the plot was established, I could NOT put the book down! I read the entire book in one day. I was engrossed in the story wholeheartedly. I gave a damn about the characters, they were not stereotypical gay cardboard cut-out 'queens' that I usually read about in gay fiction. They behaved like real people and it was so refreshing! The little mystery sub-plot was a lot of fun to read and try to figure out.
If you want to read a real Gay Fiction book, with a real plot, real characters and just the right amount of humor, sadness, intrigue, romance and naughty bits, READ THIS BOOK. I cannot wait for a sequel!
The book did start out a little slow and kind of scattered, but once the main story and the plot was established, I could NOT put the book down! I read the entire book in one day. I was engrossed in the story wholeheartedly. I gave a damn about the characters, they were not stereotypical gay cardboard cut-out 'queens' that I usually read about in gay fiction. They behaved like real people and it was so refreshing! The little mystery sub-plot was a lot of fun to read and try to figure out.
If you want to read a real Gay Fiction book, with a real plot, real characters and just the right amount of humor, sadness, intrigue, romance and naughty bits, READ THIS BOOK. I cannot wait for a sequel!
April 28, 2017
The premise of the novel is a new twist on angels and the afterlife. I’m not a big fan of apocalyptic literature, so I was happy to see a different vision of heavenly beings. That said, I had mixed feelings after reading the book.
What I loved:
The world-building is fantastic. It’s beautifully complex, and I had no trouble imagining the setting. There’s a terrific cast of characters, many of whom are likable. On the flip side, the baddies are delightfully horrible. Like any good play, most of the cast is over-the-top. However, they’re not flat.
Allan is a classic unreliable narrator, which I loved. I kept wondering why he was wasting his time pining after Warwick, who seemed to me like he wasn’t worth it. The slow-build to reveal how they died and the true nature of their relationship is outstanding. By the end, I was sympathetic to both of them.
I loved the writing style. It’s smooth and flowing. This is a book that is designed to make you think as much as it is to entertain. The story is largely told through dialog and theater. I’m not well-read enough myself to pick up on the various literary allusions, but I did find several. I enjoyed these subtle cues as well as much of the humor despite the slightly morbid premise.
What I didn’t like:
I’m simply going to state it: This book’s one huge flaw was its representation of bisexuality. Everything, from subtle digs to hinging a major plot point on the badness of a bisexual character, was an exercise in misrepresentation and hostility. Because I think readers need to know, I’m going to give spoilers. I found these elements upsetting; your mileage may vary.
I have no idea what the author’s actual intent here was, and it doesn’t matter; the damage is done. These are common stereotypes, and it’s disheartening to see them spilled out on the page for the umpteenth time. The kind of straight-to-gay erasure in most gay romance is annoying, but this is outright harmful, as it shows bisexual people as not to be trusted. Bisexuality isn’t merely a behavior and a plot point.
Final thoughts:
This is not an M/M romance. It’s a work of gay literary fiction with romantic themes. It is primarily a story about unrequited love and unfinished business. Readers should go in with eyes wide open and without preconceived ideas about what it should look like. There’s no fairytale ending, though I like to think there’s plenty of hope. Despite my frustrations with the treatment of bisexuality, I did think this was exceptionally well-written. Hopefully, the other books in the series lack some of these issues.
For elegant writing and an intriguing premise but with a side of flawed representation, this gets 3.5 stars.
**I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review**
What I loved:
The world-building is fantastic. It’s beautifully complex, and I had no trouble imagining the setting. There’s a terrific cast of characters, many of whom are likable. On the flip side, the baddies are delightfully horrible. Like any good play, most of the cast is over-the-top. However, they’re not flat.
Allan is a classic unreliable narrator, which I loved. I kept wondering why he was wasting his time pining after Warwick, who seemed to me like he wasn’t worth it. The slow-build to reveal how they died and the true nature of their relationship is outstanding. By the end, I was sympathetic to both of them.
I loved the writing style. It’s smooth and flowing. This is a book that is designed to make you think as much as it is to entertain. The story is largely told through dialog and theater. I’m not well-read enough myself to pick up on the various literary allusions, but I did find several. I enjoyed these subtle cues as well as much of the humor despite the slightly morbid premise.
What I didn’t like:
I’m simply going to state it: This book’s one huge flaw was its representation of bisexuality. Everything, from subtle digs to hinging a major plot point on the badness of a bisexual character, was an exercise in misrepresentation and hostility. Because I think readers need to know, I’m going to give spoilers. I found these elements upsetting; your mileage may vary.
I have no idea what the author’s actual intent here was, and it doesn’t matter; the damage is done. These are common stereotypes, and it’s disheartening to see them spilled out on the page for the umpteenth time. The kind of straight-to-gay erasure in most gay romance is annoying, but this is outright harmful, as it shows bisexual people as not to be trusted. Bisexuality isn’t merely a behavior and a plot point.
Final thoughts:
This is not an M/M romance. It’s a work of gay literary fiction with romantic themes. It is primarily a story about unrequited love and unfinished business. Readers should go in with eyes wide open and without preconceived ideas about what it should look like. There’s no fairytale ending, though I like to think there’s plenty of hope. Despite my frustrations with the treatment of bisexuality, I did think this was exceptionally well-written. Hopefully, the other books in the series lack some of these issues.
For elegant writing and an intriguing premise but with a side of flawed representation, this gets 3.5 stars.
**I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review**
July 26, 2013
3.5 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
What a strange book this one was. I don’t know if I loved it or hated it. I think a little bit of both. The idea behind the book is choices we make in life, or don’t; missed opportunities, regrets, Afterlife and unfinished business.
Allan has been friends with Warwick for a year now; an instant chemistry and a “special” friendship. He gradually fell in love with him, made up his mind to let him know his feelings, yet every time he opened his mouth to do just that, all the monologue he had perfected in his mind got crushed under the weight of stage fright. Just when he finally made a move toward claiming his love, life slipped under their fingers, the boat suddenly lost and limbo waited.
Confusion is perhaps the word to describe the Afterlife for our pair. Confusion is what I experience as well. When this book starts it instantly requires your full attention to get into it, or you get lost in the swirls of the plot, and the unique blend if different times, cultures and aspect of life. People from the past, people from the future, people from the present all gathered in this peculiar place. Nothing makes sense for the characters, not much make sense for us, yet a constant element is there to ground us and not let us fly onto uncertainty and chaos. Guy, the wonderful, charming angel is the one reminder of what is or could be.
This is the story of Allan. His unrequited love for Warwick, a beloved friend, a coveted lover, a soul mate almost lost forever. This is the story of Allan and his growth as a man, his lesson of first loving oneself and then charge forward for the love of your soul. This was an incredible story about human fears, told in a strange way, behind riddles and delicious drama.
It might frustrate you a bit; I know it did me quite a lot. I felt agony along with Allan in this chase for his man, getting him within his reach only to lose him right the next moment again, and again. It felt like a sucker punch and God but it hurt even reading it. It was excellent from a point onward, after having finally gotten into the theme of the book I enjoyed it immensely, hence my forewarning to keep your wits and give this book your full attention from page one.
At this point, after having come to terms with the dreamlike state this book twist you about I’m eagerly waiting for its sequel. I wouldn’t have thought it possible when I first started reading it, it took me a while to appreciate it, but I definitely would recommend this one to lovers of fine and artistically written books and romances that seduce you with their subtle passion. Keep in mind there is a bit angst and drama there to go with, but that just makes it all the better. Enjoy.
Thommie
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
What a strange book this one was. I don’t know if I loved it or hated it. I think a little bit of both. The idea behind the book is choices we make in life, or don’t; missed opportunities, regrets, Afterlife and unfinished business.
Allan has been friends with Warwick for a year now; an instant chemistry and a “special” friendship. He gradually fell in love with him, made up his mind to let him know his feelings, yet every time he opened his mouth to do just that, all the monologue he had perfected in his mind got crushed under the weight of stage fright. Just when he finally made a move toward claiming his love, life slipped under their fingers, the boat suddenly lost and limbo waited.
Confusion is perhaps the word to describe the Afterlife for our pair. Confusion is what I experience as well. When this book starts it instantly requires your full attention to get into it, or you get lost in the swirls of the plot, and the unique blend if different times, cultures and aspect of life. People from the past, people from the future, people from the present all gathered in this peculiar place. Nothing makes sense for the characters, not much make sense for us, yet a constant element is there to ground us and not let us fly onto uncertainty and chaos. Guy, the wonderful, charming angel is the one reminder of what is or could be.
This is the story of Allan. His unrequited love for Warwick, a beloved friend, a coveted lover, a soul mate almost lost forever. This is the story of Allan and his growth as a man, his lesson of first loving oneself and then charge forward for the love of your soul. This was an incredible story about human fears, told in a strange way, behind riddles and delicious drama.
It might frustrate you a bit; I know it did me quite a lot. I felt agony along with Allan in this chase for his man, getting him within his reach only to lose him right the next moment again, and again. It felt like a sucker punch and God but it hurt even reading it. It was excellent from a point onward, after having finally gotten into the theme of the book I enjoyed it immensely, hence my forewarning to keep your wits and give this book your full attention from page one.
At this point, after having come to terms with the dreamlike state this book twist you about I’m eagerly waiting for its sequel. I wouldn’t have thought it possible when I first started reading it, it took me a while to appreciate it, but I definitely would recommend this one to lovers of fine and artistically written books and romances that seduce you with their subtle passion. Keep in mind there is a bit angst and drama there to go with, but that just makes it all the better. Enjoy.
Thommie
January 20, 2013
When I first read the synopsis of this book I had no idea of the magical journey I was about to undertake. Kevin Klehr has written a unique and clever story that doesn't work on every level but certainly sets itself apart from other books in the m/m genre. Allan and Warwick have been best friends for the last year, but Allan always hoped for more. Fear kept him from voicing his true feelings though and what follows, once the two of them enter this new and colorful world, is a demonstration of the need to seize the day. Early on in the story it's not clear what's happened to the two of them and it takes a long time until the reader is let in on their fate and the importance of each step they make becomes clear.
As the colorful cast of secondary characters help bring Allan and Warwick together, while two other villains try to keep them apart, there's a play being put on that is a juxtaposition to the events going on off the stage. This added an even more melodramatic feel to everything in this world that became a bit much at times though. The roadblocks keeping Allan and Warwick apart were silly and didn't really make sense. Their on-again off-again relationship made both of them appear disagreeable at times to where I wasn't sure that they should be together. I had to trust in what a fortune teller and an angel told me. It's not until a final unexpected heartwrenching act that I truly believe in their love. This act left me shocked, and after the overly long journey it took to get to the end, I felt very frustrated and cheated. Those not fond of cliffhangers or clear cut HEA should be warned.
This book needed to be shortened as the middle section dragged. What kept me reading were the glimpses of Guy the angel. He was sweet and charming with a bit of sexiness and naughtiness thrown in. I adored him and would love to read a story devoted to him. The other secondary characters were unique but as their number increased it got difficult remembering who was who. The sex scenes gave an interesting twist to how you normally picture the Afterlife and were well-written with steamy intensity.
I didn't always love this story but liked its fresh ideas. The writing was dream-like with strong emotions. The promise shown here has me intrigued for what Mr. Klehr has planned next and with a bit of streamlining, an already interesting concept can become great.
As the colorful cast of secondary characters help bring Allan and Warwick together, while two other villains try to keep them apart, there's a play being put on that is a juxtaposition to the events going on off the stage. This added an even more melodramatic feel to everything in this world that became a bit much at times though. The roadblocks keeping Allan and Warwick apart were silly and didn't really make sense. Their on-again off-again relationship made both of them appear disagreeable at times to where I wasn't sure that they should be together. I had to trust in what a fortune teller and an angel told me. It's not until a final unexpected heartwrenching act that I truly believe in their love. This act left me shocked, and after the overly long journey it took to get to the end, I felt very frustrated and cheated. Those not fond of cliffhangers or clear cut HEA should be warned.
This book needed to be shortened as the middle section dragged. What kept me reading were the glimpses of Guy the angel. He was sweet and charming with a bit of sexiness and naughtiness thrown in. I adored him and would love to read a story devoted to him. The other secondary characters were unique but as their number increased it got difficult remembering who was who. The sex scenes gave an interesting twist to how you normally picture the Afterlife and were well-written with steamy intensity.
I didn't always love this story but liked its fresh ideas. The writing was dream-like with strong emotions. The promise shown here has me intrigued for what Mr. Klehr has planned next and with a bit of streamlining, an already interesting concept can become great.
May 5, 2011
Go into this one with no preconceived ideas, grab yourself a glass of red vino and sit back, relax and watch the theatre unfold before your eyes. Words that pop into my mind when I think about this story are love, lust, vanity, poor self-esteem, over-the-top, backstabbing, bitching, growth, rebirth, friendships, enemies – lights, camera, action! In this book there certainly are drama queens and love scenes.
All of that aside it is also a journey of soul-searching (pardon the pun); time to look deep inside and find the truth. This is true for Allan. In his afterlife journey he has many confronting situations to deal with, not the least of trying to get his mind around where he is and why he is there.
Allan also gets to act in some theatre productions. Allan is not just acting though, he’s coming alive through the characters he plays; he’s discovering things about himself and about others. Acting, it seems to me, is a cover for hidden emotions which need to be given life. We often hear people wear many masks and each mask has a different persona underneath – Allan needs to discard the masks but first he needs to realise he’s wearing them.
I liked it. As you can imagine, the theatre evokes many different kinds of people and personalities and I believe Kevin did a good job of demonstrating this, along with the more serious theme of finding the true you and loving what you find. The road may not be easy but it is definitely worth it.
Many thanks to Kevin Klehr for providing me with a copy of Drama Queens with Love Scenes, his first born – thanks, Kevin!
All of that aside it is also a journey of soul-searching (pardon the pun); time to look deep inside and find the truth. This is true for Allan. In his afterlife journey he has many confronting situations to deal with, not the least of trying to get his mind around where he is and why he is there.
Allan also gets to act in some theatre productions. Allan is not just acting though, he’s coming alive through the characters he plays; he’s discovering things about himself and about others. Acting, it seems to me, is a cover for hidden emotions which need to be given life. We often hear people wear many masks and each mask has a different persona underneath – Allan needs to discard the masks but first he needs to realise he’s wearing them.
I liked it. As you can imagine, the theatre evokes many different kinds of people and personalities and I believe Kevin did a good job of demonstrating this, along with the more serious theme of finding the true you and loving what you find. The road may not be easy but it is definitely worth it.
Many thanks to Kevin Klehr for providing me with a copy of Drama Queens with Love Scenes, his first born – thanks, Kevin!
April 8, 2013
I'm speechless... Wow! What an ending?!.... It left me absolutely speechless!....
Please bear with me because overall this is going to seem like a very contradictory review but please just note that I gave it a 5 star rating which my GRs friends know is something that I rarely do.
I cannot tell you the number of times that I almost placed this on my "did not finish" shelf. From the beginning this story is very confusing and contradictory. Which I generally don't like. Written in a very lyrical prose type writing that I also generally dislike. Containing a bunch of characters that I mostly disliked. Even the ones that I did like I wanted to smack upside their heads hoping to knock some sense into them.
There were only two reasons that I didn't quit reading, the first being Allan. Though I wanted to smack him I also felt so sorry for him and just had to know what ultimately happened to him. And second was because I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and fair review and so I felt that to be able to give a fair review I needed to continue....just a little bit farther. LOL! Yes, that is what I kept saying to myself. I'll read just a little more to be fair then I'll stop.
However, despite all those things that sound so negative this book ended up blowing me away! I can't say much without giving something away, which I refuse to do. You must experience Allan's story step by step for yourself. Just know that in the end it's a truly astounding journey that you've been witness to.
Thank Mr. Klehr so very much for writing such a wonderful story!
Please bear with me because overall this is going to seem like a very contradictory review but please just note that I gave it a 5 star rating which my GRs friends know is something that I rarely do.
I cannot tell you the number of times that I almost placed this on my "did not finish" shelf. From the beginning this story is very confusing and contradictory. Which I generally don't like. Written in a very lyrical prose type writing that I also generally dislike. Containing a bunch of characters that I mostly disliked. Even the ones that I did like I wanted to smack upside their heads hoping to knock some sense into them.
There were only two reasons that I didn't quit reading, the first being Allan. Though I wanted to smack him I also felt so sorry for him and just had to know what ultimately happened to him. And second was because I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and fair review and so I felt that to be able to give a fair review I needed to continue....just a little bit farther. LOL! Yes, that is what I kept saying to myself. I'll read just a little more to be fair then I'll stop.
However, despite all those things that sound so negative this book ended up blowing me away! I can't say much without giving something away, which I refuse to do. You must experience Allan's story step by step for yourself. Just know that in the end it's a truly astounding journey that you've been witness to.
Thank Mr. Klehr so very much for writing such a wonderful story!
April 16, 2017
Re-read of the new release.
This was a fun-filled romp through a theatrical afterlife, or as Guy the angel puts it, The Limelight District. While Allan pines for Warwick from afar, they both become involved in the theatre productions, where there is just as much jealousy, backstabbing and bitchiness as on the mortal plane.
The book is in first-person from Allan's point of view, so we only got to see Allan's opinions of the other characters. I wanted to be in some of the other character's heads for a while, especially Guy, the orphaned angel who was never taught how to fly, I really adored him.
I wouldn't necessarily say the characters were true to life, most were flamboyant and over the top, but maybe that's what a lot of theatre people are like and I just haven't met them. The world building is good, with lots of different districts from different eras of Earth history, but the characters wander about to the other ones at will. There were also some little mysteries to solve such as how Allan and Warwick died and who is trying to sabotage the plays.
The path to true love never did run smooth, but the author has made Allan's journey to not only find love, but to find himself a very engaging tale.
It's a fun little read, well over 70K words is not that little, but I got so engrossed in the story and the characters that the pages flew by.
Review copy from Bewitching Book Tours
This was a fun-filled romp through a theatrical afterlife, or as Guy the angel puts it, The Limelight District. While Allan pines for Warwick from afar, they both become involved in the theatre productions, where there is just as much jealousy, backstabbing and bitchiness as on the mortal plane.
The book is in first-person from Allan's point of view, so we only got to see Allan's opinions of the other characters. I wanted to be in some of the other character's heads for a while, especially Guy, the orphaned angel who was never taught how to fly, I really adored him.
I wouldn't necessarily say the characters were true to life, most were flamboyant and over the top, but maybe that's what a lot of theatre people are like and I just haven't met them. The world building is good, with lots of different districts from different eras of Earth history, but the characters wander about to the other ones at will. There were also some little mysteries to solve such as how Allan and Warwick died and who is trying to sabotage the plays.
The path to true love never did run smooth, but the author has made Allan's journey to not only find love, but to find himself a very engaging tale.
It's a fun little read, well over 70K words is not that little, but I got so engrossed in the story and the characters that the pages flew by.
Review copy from Bewitching Book Tours
August 29, 2013
Kudos to author, Kevin Klehr who has penned the most original love story I've ever read. Drama Queens and Love Scenes is amazing in that the characters are dead, yet full of sass and mystery. However, dead is not dead boring, but rather a dramatic adventure in a heavenly theatre troupe.
Not everyone is cool with being in the great beyond. Help arrives in the form of a shy angel and beautiful blonde bombshell who never quite became a movie goddess. Our central characters Alan and Warwick are best friends. The main issue is, besides being dead, that Alan never confessed his romantic feelings to Warwick while alive. It may be too late because apparently, you can hook up in the afterlife and Warwick already spotted his next crush.
Author Kevin Klehr spins a tale full of words not said, dreams pushed aside and love not realized. It is a fun, but at some points becomes a heart-wrenching story. The reader wants Alan to succeed in the afterlife. After all, he did miss his chance in actual life. What I like best about the story was that it evolved as opposed to settling for cardboard characters and rushing through the scenes. Klehr shows a deft hand with both dramatic timing and the handling of his characters.
Drama Queens and Love Scenes is well worth reading. If I had to classify the genre, I would call it Gay Romance. Honestly, it is a love story that anyone could appreciate. If you are a theatre freak, it doesn't get any better.
Not everyone is cool with being in the great beyond. Help arrives in the form of a shy angel and beautiful blonde bombshell who never quite became a movie goddess. Our central characters Alan and Warwick are best friends. The main issue is, besides being dead, that Alan never confessed his romantic feelings to Warwick while alive. It may be too late because apparently, you can hook up in the afterlife and Warwick already spotted his next crush.
Author Kevin Klehr spins a tale full of words not said, dreams pushed aside and love not realized. It is a fun, but at some points becomes a heart-wrenching story. The reader wants Alan to succeed in the afterlife. After all, he did miss his chance in actual life. What I like best about the story was that it evolved as opposed to settling for cardboard characters and rushing through the scenes. Klehr shows a deft hand with both dramatic timing and the handling of his characters.
Drama Queens and Love Scenes is well worth reading. If I had to classify the genre, I would call it Gay Romance. Honestly, it is a love story that anyone could appreciate. If you are a theatre freak, it doesn't get any better.
January 30, 2013
ADULT CONTENT -- Adults Only Novel
Somewhere inside of every novel there is a nugget of a good story, and that can be held accountable in the story that Klehr presents. Unfortunately, finding that golden nugget takes some serious searching. There is a story here, it just needs to be refined and laid out a tad differently to flow smoothly. Your first hurdle is chapter one, where literally within a matter of pages the reader is confused. Granted the characters are equally confused, but it doesn't play well enough to make it easy to get into the story. Chapter two starts bringing a more coherent tale, and you start to get a better sense of the characters, which is the shining star within the novel. Klehr has developed some great characters, that you will be able to connect with easily. The characters simply need a better stage, which ironically is an aspect of the story line. I hope that prior to the next edition in the series, Klehr has time to work out the flow of the story, and then I think he has a smash on his hands, albeit one that is only going to appeal to a select audience. The novel is a very unique genre that may not fly high in the general reading audience, but with the right marketing, this book has an audience waiting for it, that will welcome it with wide open hearts and minds.
Somewhere inside of every novel there is a nugget of a good story, and that can be held accountable in the story that Klehr presents. Unfortunately, finding that golden nugget takes some serious searching. There is a story here, it just needs to be refined and laid out a tad differently to flow smoothly. Your first hurdle is chapter one, where literally within a matter of pages the reader is confused. Granted the characters are equally confused, but it doesn't play well enough to make it easy to get into the story. Chapter two starts bringing a more coherent tale, and you start to get a better sense of the characters, which is the shining star within the novel. Klehr has developed some great characters, that you will be able to connect with easily. The characters simply need a better stage, which ironically is an aspect of the story line. I hope that prior to the next edition in the series, Klehr has time to work out the flow of the story, and then I think he has a smash on his hands, albeit one that is only going to appeal to a select audience. The novel is a very unique genre that may not fly high in the general reading audience, but with the right marketing, this book has an audience waiting for it, that will welcome it with wide open hearts and minds.
January 25, 2013
Honestly, this is my first time for this M/M genre. And surprisingly, I had a good time with Allan, Warwick, Pedro and my fave character, Guy :D
The story about a -funny,eccentric,quirky- afterlife world, there are two buddy Allan and Warwick who brought by two angels Guy and Samantha. Allan have more than friend feeling for Warwick, and he keep that because he worry about the risks. Until they both enter this world, Allan realizes that he has many things to deal with. Although, it's not too clear what's happened to Allan and Warwick in early story. And their full of drama relationship is make me tired, and that make me though Allan is finally fall in love with Pedro for the ending.
Bact to Guy, he is the one who make me can't put this book down. The charming,handsome and lill bit naughty angel. And there is one part which is make me laugh, when Allan and Warwick helped choosing Guy's outfit.
Once again, I love the idea of the story, and Kevin's writing style. Funny and quirky.
The story about a -funny,eccentric,quirky- afterlife world, there are two buddy Allan and Warwick who brought by two angels Guy and Samantha. Allan have more than friend feeling for Warwick, and he keep that because he worry about the risks. Until they both enter this world, Allan realizes that he has many things to deal with. Although, it's not too clear what's happened to Allan and Warwick in early story. And their full of drama relationship is make me tired, and that make me though Allan is finally fall in love with Pedro for the ending.
Bact to Guy, he is the one who make me can't put this book down. The charming,handsome and lill bit naughty angel. And there is one part which is make me laugh, when Allan and Warwick helped choosing Guy's outfit.
Once again, I love the idea of the story, and Kevin's writing style. Funny and quirky.
November 28, 2013
The cover and title are profoundly misleading to the enchantment you’ll uncover once you crack open the pages and dive in. Who says being dead has to be anything except fabulous… and all to like the life of the living. This Gay Satirical Romance story will pull at your heartstrings, leave you all a flutter, and remind you to never settle, even if you’re dead! And to have fun!
Alan is that guy that defines the majority of humans; gay or straight. Often we go through lives not taking chances or chasing after our dreams only to find our life abruptly ended with so many unfulfilled dreams. But why? Klehr gives the readers back some of those choices in a fun loving and humorous way all while getting down to business and drowning in juicy drama that gays know best!
"Don't smile like that, it doesn't match the decor."
Read the FULL review here- http://www.musingwithcrayolakym.com/3...
Alan is that guy that defines the majority of humans; gay or straight. Often we go through lives not taking chances or chasing after our dreams only to find our life abruptly ended with so many unfulfilled dreams. But why? Klehr gives the readers back some of those choices in a fun loving and humorous way all while getting down to business and drowning in juicy drama that gays know best!
"Don't smile like that, it doesn't match the decor."
Read the FULL review here- http://www.musingwithcrayolakym.com/3...
October 21, 2014
I’m a sucker for a second chance. There’s something so engaging about a character who has missed an opportunity or made a mistake and is now facing the consequences and deciding to take one more shot at making things right. I admit my love of “never too late” knowing full well it reveals me as a romantic and a optimist, despite how much cynical sarcasm I might let loose on an average day. It’s refreshing and restorative to read about love that makes it against all odds. There’s nothing better than love that never says die.
Or, well, actually...
Death is actually the beginning.
Full review up at: http://www.chelseastationmagazine.com...
Or, well, actually...
Death is actually the beginning.
Full review up at: http://www.chelseastationmagazine.com...
January 3, 2013
This book by Kevin Klehr is a quirky, wacky, irreverent and totally off-the-wall look into the way various eccentric characters pass the time in the afterlife while waiting to be reborn back into the mortal world. Actors, writers, angels, and a multitude of other unique individuals makes this debut novel a fascinating way to spend a lazy afternoon or evening.
Please see Trish's complete review and a fun interview with the author on January 9, 2013. Mr. Klehr will offer a copy of the book to one lucky commentor to the blog post on that date!
Please see Trish's complete review and a fun interview with the author on January 9, 2013. Mr. Klehr will offer a copy of the book to one lucky commentor to the blog post on that date!
February 9, 2013
Love this book! Kevin Klehr is like Armistead Maupin, Neil Drinan and Joe Keenan but on high-octane. His roller coaster of a story throws in an angel who can't fly, a talentless 50's sexpot, a grande-Dame of the theater, a sexy playwright, a zany fortune teller, a self-assured best friend and a self doubting hero. Mix this up with 80's decor, a carnival of lost souls, a moon costume and buckets of cranberry vodka, stir and shake well and you have a great read.
May 4, 2013
Review to come! Truly enjoyed this gem of a story!
February 7, 2023
New to name author. This is a mm paranormal story set in Australia. Very different.
August 16, 2021
This tale had me reliving my high school days in the drama club.
The premise of the tale is entirely unique - and unlike anything I've read before, and even though the book is categorized as Paranormal Romance, I think it belongs in Magic Realism. The existence of souls, and afterlife, and angels is accepted as a part of normal life. The writing is clever, with amazing descriptions and thought provoking conversations - see? Magic Realism!
Basically, Allan and Warwick, our two main characters and soon-to-be lovers, meet an untimely demise, find themselves in the afterlife. The afterlife in Klehr's book is certainly not what I had been expecting, as it was unlike anything I've ever seen or read about heaven! But then, were they in heaven? Or was it purgatory - I honestly am not entirely sure.
The story is centered around Allan. Poor Allan. He comes to the realization that his best buddy of all time, Warren, should have been his lover. And if he couldn't have him as a lover in his most recently past life, he's determined to have him as one in the afterlife.
But as with all good paranormal romance stories, there's obstacles and distractions that occur preventing the couple from getting together. Enter in shenanigans, complete with plots and schemes and perhaps a few love scenes!
The quick one-liners reminded me of my high school and early university days which struck a chord of nostalgia - and sent me down some rather old and forgotten memories of life backstage and those horrendously long rehearsals. There are a lot of clever little nuggets of writing in the novel where I thought "this has got to be a reference to something" and they might have been, but I couldn't put my finger on it. But the descriptions! They are beautifully crafted!
Interestingly, and if you were to stop and think about it - Klehr's afterlife made a lot of sense for as disjointed and weird as I sometimes found it. Folks who have passed end up in this heaven like state wearing the same clothes and speaking the same vernacular as they did at the time of their death. Characters were heavenly (an angel named Guy), from earlier time periods (Samantha from the 1950's), from the present (Allan and Warwick), and even one character from the future.
The premise was quirky, and original.
The book itself didn't completely resonate with me, and I couldn't really figure out why, but in the end it didn't really matter. It's beautifully written with editing and grammar on-point. The characters are odd and unusual, the world building unique and through-provoking.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes stories of the after-life, self reflection on lives lived, and romance - although it's definitely not the typical romance format!
Watch out for those Stage Lights! And for goodness sake, costuming is everything - as is honesty in admitting your true feelings for those you love, in life, or in death.
The premise of the tale is entirely unique - and unlike anything I've read before, and even though the book is categorized as Paranormal Romance, I think it belongs in Magic Realism. The existence of souls, and afterlife, and angels is accepted as a part of normal life. The writing is clever, with amazing descriptions and thought provoking conversations - see? Magic Realism!
Basically, Allan and Warwick, our two main characters and soon-to-be lovers, meet an untimely demise, find themselves in the afterlife. The afterlife in Klehr's book is certainly not what I had been expecting, as it was unlike anything I've ever seen or read about heaven! But then, were they in heaven? Or was it purgatory - I honestly am not entirely sure.
The story is centered around Allan. Poor Allan. He comes to the realization that his best buddy of all time, Warren, should have been his lover. And if he couldn't have him as a lover in his most recently past life, he's determined to have him as one in the afterlife.
But as with all good paranormal romance stories, there's obstacles and distractions that occur preventing the couple from getting together. Enter in shenanigans, complete with plots and schemes and perhaps a few love scenes!
The quick one-liners reminded me of my high school and early university days which struck a chord of nostalgia - and sent me down some rather old and forgotten memories of life backstage and those horrendously long rehearsals. There are a lot of clever little nuggets of writing in the novel where I thought "this has got to be a reference to something" and they might have been, but I couldn't put my finger on it. But the descriptions! They are beautifully crafted!
Interestingly, and if you were to stop and think about it - Klehr's afterlife made a lot of sense for as disjointed and weird as I sometimes found it. Folks who have passed end up in this heaven like state wearing the same clothes and speaking the same vernacular as they did at the time of their death. Characters were heavenly (an angel named Guy), from earlier time periods (Samantha from the 1950's), from the present (Allan and Warwick), and even one character from the future.
The premise was quirky, and original.
The book itself didn't completely resonate with me, and I couldn't really figure out why, but in the end it didn't really matter. It's beautifully written with editing and grammar on-point. The characters are odd and unusual, the world building unique and through-provoking.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes stories of the after-life, self reflection on lives lived, and romance - although it's definitely not the typical romance format!
Watch out for those Stage Lights! And for goodness sake, costuming is everything - as is honesty in admitting your true feelings for those you love, in life, or in death.
October 9, 2014
4 star review by Dan.
At first I didn’t think I was going to like this book. It is not one of those books that hooks you on page 1, or even page 20, but hold on….it gets better. I came close to putting it down and trying again later, but I persevered and suddenly I realized I liked the story and before I knew it I was at the end of the book. If I hadn’t kept reading I would have missed lines like “I could have worn lederhosen and masturbated, he wouldn’t have noticed.” That line sticks in my head because I can honestly say I’d never once in my life pictured some dude in lederhosen masturbating…now it is stuck there!
On to the story. We start out with Allan and Warwick arriving in a room that is heavily overdone with red velvet curtains, caramel marble arches, a black and white tiled floor and a huge Liberace style crystal chandelier (my gay decorator genes were cringing.) They have no idea how they got there. Samantha, an overdressed 1950’s Jayne Mansfield wanna-be, without the attributes, and Guy, a barefoot male angel in old blue jeans and a ripped sleeved khaki shirt, are there to greet them. From there, the greeters take them to a bar (of course?) for cocktails. There they meet Pedro. Somehow the newly dead Warwick is swept away by Pedro and goes home with him. Allan has just finished telling Guy that all he remembers from life is that he had strong feelings for Warwick that he doesn’t think he ever expressed before they died.
What follows is a post-death romp complete with a lot of drinking, acting (some of it really bad), sex (some of it with an angel), bad folks, good folks and even a fortune teller. The afterlife doesn’t look anything like what Allan and Warwick had expected, and I don’t blame them. Drama queens and backstabbing? Where are the pearly gates and harps? At least there is a sexy angel!
Eventually Allen starts regaining his memories of his life. How can he go about gaining Warwick’s love? How did they die? What happens next? All answers you will have to get by reading the book yourself. I recommend the book to anyone who has the perseverance to hold on long enough to get to know the characters. You will enjoy the read.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews!
At first I didn’t think I was going to like this book. It is not one of those books that hooks you on page 1, or even page 20, but hold on….it gets better. I came close to putting it down and trying again later, but I persevered and suddenly I realized I liked the story and before I knew it I was at the end of the book. If I hadn’t kept reading I would have missed lines like “I could have worn lederhosen and masturbated, he wouldn’t have noticed.” That line sticks in my head because I can honestly say I’d never once in my life pictured some dude in lederhosen masturbating…now it is stuck there!
On to the story. We start out with Allan and Warwick arriving in a room that is heavily overdone with red velvet curtains, caramel marble arches, a black and white tiled floor and a huge Liberace style crystal chandelier (my gay decorator genes were cringing.) They have no idea how they got there. Samantha, an overdressed 1950’s Jayne Mansfield wanna-be, without the attributes, and Guy, a barefoot male angel in old blue jeans and a ripped sleeved khaki shirt, are there to greet them. From there, the greeters take them to a bar (of course?) for cocktails. There they meet Pedro. Somehow the newly dead Warwick is swept away by Pedro and goes home with him. Allan has just finished telling Guy that all he remembers from life is that he had strong feelings for Warwick that he doesn’t think he ever expressed before they died.
What follows is a post-death romp complete with a lot of drinking, acting (some of it really bad), sex (some of it with an angel), bad folks, good folks and even a fortune teller. The afterlife doesn’t look anything like what Allan and Warwick had expected, and I don’t blame them. Drama queens and backstabbing? Where are the pearly gates and harps? At least there is a sexy angel!
Eventually Allen starts regaining his memories of his life. How can he go about gaining Warwick’s love? How did they die? What happens next? All answers you will have to get by reading the book yourself. I recommend the book to anyone who has the perseverance to hold on long enough to get to know the characters. You will enjoy the read.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews!
May 1, 2017
I can’t name drop actresses from the fifties, I’m not a theater major, and I don’t enjoy Shakespearean comedies, so I’m one hundred percent convinced that forty percent of this novel went completely over my head. I can’t say I wasn’t warned, because the title is Drama Queens with Love Scenes, and I still managed to enjoy myself.
From my ignorant point of view, this struck me as a mashup of Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Friends, and How I Met Your Mother. I enjoyed the mystery, banter, and silliness.
Though it more resembles a contemporary drama, this is actually speculative fiction. At first I wasn’t sure, but I later came to realize Allan and Warwick were in heaven, complete with an angel who can’t fly, a femme fatale, and a bunch of people who really don’t want them there. What starts out as them joining a celestial production of a play, leads to attempted murder. Yup, turns out dead people are still people, through and through. Kinda disappointing but not surprising, really.
As a protagonist, Allan tried my patience. He and Warwick go into heaven, not quite remembering everything, but knowing they kinda had a thing for each other and never did anything about it.
Allan’s like, “Yay, now we can do something about it!”
And Warwicks like, “I’m going to get some ghost dick.”
Then Allan is sad and not quite explaining how he feels (because shouldn’t Warwick know?) and Warwick is being oddly evasive.
Allan goes back and forth and finally I was like, “Dude, Allan, get over it. He doesn’t want you.” But sometimes it does seem like Allan’s being yanked around by unseen malevolent forces. And then someone tries to kill him. Damn. I’d be mopey, too, if someone was trying to kill me in heaven. Shouldn’t there be rules against that or something?
One thing that did seem sort of nice about heaven was that sexism, racism, and homophobia were very much not in vogue, so while we were ensorcelled with a gay couple in a theatrical production in glam society, it didn’t really feel gay, if that makes any sense. Allan and Warwick could have been Anna and Kikki and it would have had the same feel, in this world at least, which was kinda fun.
With a ton of theatrics, clever diction, and a few chuckles, Drama Queens with Love Scenes is perfect for lovers of theater and gay romance.
Reviewed by Ben for The Novel Approach
From my ignorant point of view, this struck me as a mashup of Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Friends, and How I Met Your Mother. I enjoyed the mystery, banter, and silliness.
Though it more resembles a contemporary drama, this is actually speculative fiction. At first I wasn’t sure, but I later came to realize Allan and Warwick were in heaven, complete with an angel who can’t fly, a femme fatale, and a bunch of people who really don’t want them there. What starts out as them joining a celestial production of a play, leads to attempted murder. Yup, turns out dead people are still people, through and through. Kinda disappointing but not surprising, really.
As a protagonist, Allan tried my patience. He and Warwick go into heaven, not quite remembering everything, but knowing they kinda had a thing for each other and never did anything about it.
Allan’s like, “Yay, now we can do something about it!”
And Warwicks like, “I’m going to get some ghost dick.”
Then Allan is sad and not quite explaining how he feels (because shouldn’t Warwick know?) and Warwick is being oddly evasive.
Allan goes back and forth and finally I was like, “Dude, Allan, get over it. He doesn’t want you.” But sometimes it does seem like Allan’s being yanked around by unseen malevolent forces. And then someone tries to kill him. Damn. I’d be mopey, too, if someone was trying to kill me in heaven. Shouldn’t there be rules against that or something?
One thing that did seem sort of nice about heaven was that sexism, racism, and homophobia were very much not in vogue, so while we were ensorcelled with a gay couple in a theatrical production in glam society, it didn’t really feel gay, if that makes any sense. Allan and Warwick could have been Anna and Kikki and it would have had the same feel, in this world at least, which was kinda fun.
With a ton of theatrics, clever diction, and a few chuckles, Drama Queens with Love Scenes is perfect for lovers of theater and gay romance.
Reviewed by Ben for The Novel Approach
May 4, 2013
I enjoyed this book. It was fun with some interesting ideas thrown in. I wondered what genre it fits into, though. Is there a section called Fiction for Open-minded People?
A couple find themselves in Heaven, or more like a sorting house in the Afterlife, where you need to resolve unfinished business before moving on. It's divided into districts and you can live in your ideal neighbourhood - in this case they end up in the Limelight Quarter for people interested in the theatre. Things quickly go wrong when Allan's supposed soulmate, Warwick, runs off with another man. In case you hadn't guessed, yes, it's about a gay couple.
But I hope people wouldn't be put off by that. I'm straight and it didn't bother me at all. It's a very entertaining read. And there's so much more to it than most people would expect at first glance.
I wouldn't necessarily lump it into the Romance genre, either. Yes, it has romantic moments, but it is more a case of examining relationships and values in one's life. For example, the importance of communication and trust, or doing things without worrying about its popularity, but rather putting aside one's ego and doing what you believe is right or best. It also suggests that a true soul mate would always be there for you, even in the Afterlife.
Would it be classed as Humour? Yes, it's funny, with some wickedly hilarious lines, but it doesn't set out to be merely a comedy.
A cast of wonderful characters and not all gay. The character of Guy, Allan's guardian angel, was one of my favourites. A really cool angel who is not spotlessly white perfect, (much more human), but is like a best mate who listens calmly and quietly to your problems without adopting a holier-than-thou attitude and always responds selflessly with your best interests at heart.
It would be a sin if this book was merely relegated to gay fiction. Be a devil and discover this heavenly story.
A couple find themselves in Heaven, or more like a sorting house in the Afterlife, where you need to resolve unfinished business before moving on. It's divided into districts and you can live in your ideal neighbourhood - in this case they end up in the Limelight Quarter for people interested in the theatre. Things quickly go wrong when Allan's supposed soulmate, Warwick, runs off with another man. In case you hadn't guessed, yes, it's about a gay couple.
But I hope people wouldn't be put off by that. I'm straight and it didn't bother me at all. It's a very entertaining read. And there's so much more to it than most people would expect at first glance.
I wouldn't necessarily lump it into the Romance genre, either. Yes, it has romantic moments, but it is more a case of examining relationships and values in one's life. For example, the importance of communication and trust, or doing things without worrying about its popularity, but rather putting aside one's ego and doing what you believe is right or best. It also suggests that a true soul mate would always be there for you, even in the Afterlife.
Would it be classed as Humour? Yes, it's funny, with some wickedly hilarious lines, but it doesn't set out to be merely a comedy.
A cast of wonderful characters and not all gay. The character of Guy, Allan's guardian angel, was one of my favourites. A really cool angel who is not spotlessly white perfect, (much more human), but is like a best mate who listens calmly and quietly to your problems without adopting a holier-than-thou attitude and always responds selflessly with your best interests at heart.
It would be a sin if this book was merely relegated to gay fiction. Be a devil and discover this heavenly story.
Read
June 28, 2013It was difficult to find a label for this novel, it’s a Fantasy (I tend to classify as Fantasy every novel with an angel in it, moreover when the story is set in the Afterlife) but it’s also Gay Romance, since the main purpose of Allan is to finally conquer his friend Warwick, even if that will happen after they are both dead. Probably the best label is Satire, because I think the author is playing with the stereotype of the gay novels to make them his own and craft his personal genre.
If I have to be sincere, more than for Allan to conquer Warwick, I was cheering for Guy, the Angel, to learn how to fly: in my mind, I had this idea that, if he learned to fly, he was also more likely to conquer Allan. Yes, I think Allan was better suited with Guy then Warwick, and maybe there was a reason why they didn’t end together during their life. Anyway I’m digressing, but that gives you the idea that I really liked Guy and I hope the author will consider to give us his story.
I want to highlight that I did have some trouble in “entering” the story, sure it was clear that Allan and Warwick were dead and that they were in a some sort of limbo between life and Heaven, but we were thrown into it without much warning, and I had to grasp details like Allan was doing… maybe that was the purpose of the author, Allan has just died and it’s not like you know what will happen after death.
The ending was quite a surprise, and I’m not yet sure if it left me eager to read more (nice insight on the life in the suburbs of a long-term couple, right what I like) or shocked. Sure the author prepared us and so we know it’s not that tragic as it could seem, but still… I was a little shocked.
Lasting not on the title, that is perfect for the story: the characters are a little over the top, so yes, this was really a story about Drama Queens with Love Scenes. Oh, and the cover? I loved the cover!
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1936185903/?...
If I have to be sincere, more than for Allan to conquer Warwick, I was cheering for Guy, the Angel, to learn how to fly: in my mind, I had this idea that, if he learned to fly, he was also more likely to conquer Allan. Yes, I think Allan was better suited with Guy then Warwick, and maybe there was a reason why they didn’t end together during their life. Anyway I’m digressing, but that gives you the idea that I really liked Guy and I hope the author will consider to give us his story.
I want to highlight that I did have some trouble in “entering” the story, sure it was clear that Allan and Warwick were dead and that they were in a some sort of limbo between life and Heaven, but we were thrown into it without much warning, and I had to grasp details like Allan was doing… maybe that was the purpose of the author, Allan has just died and it’s not like you know what will happen after death.
The ending was quite a surprise, and I’m not yet sure if it left me eager to read more (nice insight on the life in the suburbs of a long-term couple, right what I like) or shocked. Sure the author prepared us and so we know it’s not that tragic as it could seem, but still… I was a little shocked.
Lasting not on the title, that is perfect for the story: the characters are a little over the top, so yes, this was really a story about Drama Queens with Love Scenes. Oh, and the cover? I loved the cover!
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1936185903/?...
November 26, 2017
This title definitely fits this book as there are a few drama queens and some love scenes. I wouldn’t consider this your typical MM read. I have mixed feelings—I think this is well written and will be loved by some. I was lost for a while from the get-go.
I mean, I understood Allan and Warwick were dead, but I felt it took forever to understand why they went through so much. I understood by the end, but it just took a long time to get there. There were times I wanted to punch them both. Allen for not letting him go and Warwick for not giving in to him.
Samantha and Guy were wonderful characters that helped them in their afterlife and unfinished business. Samantha is a 1950’s exuberant angel, and Guy is just an adorable angel that needs to work on his self-esteem. They help Allan get into the theater and direct which really fits into this whole concept. It’s a play, and it reads as one.
My major problem is all the judgment. I mean, this is the afterlife and I would like to think that I will leave all judgment behind when I go. The biggest offense was against bisexuality. I mean, common on, we can’t make our minds and are selfish. This was a big turn off of the book for me. When I get to hang out with angels, they need to be that, angels. Maybe I’m just over sensitive about this subject, but it is how I feel.
Like I said earlier, this is well written and there are lots of laughs and love. If you like the theater and drama queens, this is the book for you.
I mean, I understood Allan and Warwick were dead, but I felt it took forever to understand why they went through so much. I understood by the end, but it just took a long time to get there. There were times I wanted to punch them both. Allen for not letting him go and Warwick for not giving in to him.
Samantha and Guy were wonderful characters that helped them in their afterlife and unfinished business. Samantha is a 1950’s exuberant angel, and Guy is just an adorable angel that needs to work on his self-esteem. They help Allan get into the theater and direct which really fits into this whole concept. It’s a play, and it reads as one.
My major problem is all the judgment. I mean, this is the afterlife and I would like to think that I will leave all judgment behind when I go. The biggest offense was against bisexuality. I mean, common on, we can’t make our minds and are selfish. This was a big turn off of the book for me. When I get to hang out with angels, they need to be that, angels. Maybe I’m just over sensitive about this subject, but it is how I feel.
Like I said earlier, this is well written and there are lots of laughs and love. If you like the theater and drama queens, this is the book for you.
April 30, 2014
I was interested in this book based on the blurb. It was not what I was expecting at all. The beginning started off well and I'm thinking to myself "oh, this is going to be good" so, I was really let down.
Zane, the hero, was smurky beyond belief. Chloe, the heroine, was so whinny I was ready to shoot myself. I also think she had a serious case of ADD. I was soooo thrilled when she lost her virginity that I wanted to throw a party. No, I'm not that twisted. I was just sick of reading about how she HAD to remain a virgin. She had issues and I wasn't interested.
All in all, a big let down that tried to combine too many things in one book. To top it off, it ends at a cliff hanger.
Zane, the hero, was smurky beyond belief. Chloe, the heroine, was so whinny I was ready to shoot myself. I also think she had a serious case of ADD. I was soooo thrilled when she lost her virginity that I wanted to throw a party. No, I'm not that twisted. I was just sick of reading about how she HAD to remain a virgin. She had issues and I wasn't interested.
All in all, a big let down that tried to combine too many things in one book. To top it off, it ends at a cliff hanger.
May 2, 2017
I can’t name drop actresses from the fifties, I’m not a theater major, and I don’t enjoy Shakespearean comedies, so I’m one hundred percent convinced that forty percent of this novel went completely over my head. I can’t say I wasn’t warned, because the title is Drama Queens with Love Scenes, and I still managed to enjoy myself.
From my ignorant point of view, this struck me as a mashup of Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Friends, and How I Met Your Mother. I enjoyed the mystery, banter, and silliness....
Read the rest of my review for The Novel Approach: http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
From my ignorant point of view, this struck me as a mashup of Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Friends, and How I Met Your Mother. I enjoyed the mystery, banter, and silliness....
Read the rest of my review for The Novel Approach: http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
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