I haven't seen much buzz about Denne Michele Norris' upcoming novel, WHEN THE HARVEST COMES, but it immediately caught my attention and moved right toI haven't seen much buzz about Denne Michele Norris' upcoming novel, WHEN THE HARVEST COMES, but it immediately caught my attention and moved right to the top of my TBR. This book sounds very much like a Bryan Washington (Lot, Memorial, Family Meal) type of vibe, so I knew that I wanted to dive in.
n the eve of his wedding, Davis, a young Black gay man, is ready to embrace love and the life he has built—until news of his estranged father’s sudden death forces him to confront the painful past he thought he left behind. As childhood trauma resurfaces, his confidence and new marriage teeter on the edge, challenging his understanding of family, identity, and desire.
This synopsis doesn't really paint the picture accurately because readers get so much more than that in WHEN THE HARVEST COMES. The story behind Everett and Davis is really at the forefront and this book is more of a love story than of a drama between Davis and Davis' father. I loved the characterization and the POVs we are provided. The love story between Davis and Everett is beautiful, unique to their story, and something that I really resonated deeply with. The story is not so much a fast-paced plot powerhouse, but more of a voyeuristic character-driven emotional journey for our characters. I would be shocked if you didn't take something away from this book by the time you get to the end. This story will stay with me for some time. ...more
I do not know what I was expecting, but Mona Awad has done it again. She has shown us readers an even more weird book than before. And I think I likedI do not know what I was expecting, but Mona Awad has done it again. She has shown us readers an even more weird book than before. And I think I liked it a lot? Thank you @marysuericcibooks for my advanced gifted copy! Look at this cover!!
In WE LOVE YOU BUNNY, Samantha Mackey—now a celebrated author—is kidnapped by her former MFA frenemies after portraying them unflatteringly in her debut novel. Bound and gagged, Sam becomes the audience as each Bunny recounts their twisted origin story and darkly magical creative powers.
WE LOVE YOU, BUNNY is being said to be a standalone, but it is not. I repeat, you must read Bunny to even get past the first 20% of the book. I was still confused mainly until halfway, but you will be completely lost otherwise. This book had romance, a gay character, and the Bunnies we loved from its predecessor. Both a prequel and sequel to Bunny, this fever-dream slasher is a wicked tale of love, monstrosity, and the horrors of artistic creation. This book is a solid 4 but only because I kept going, because there were definite times I kept scratching my head trying to piece things together. I would say that I liked this book as much as Bunny, so if you enjoyed that one, try WE LOVE YOU, BUNNY. Mona Awad continues to bring unique stories to readers, and we get a full on modern-day, Mean Girls-Heathers-Frankenstein with WE LOVE YOU, BUNNY.
RANKINGS: 1. Rouge 2. Bunny (IF I had to pick between the two, but both 4s) 3. We Love You, Bunny 4. All's Well...more
I think we should all take a minute to reflect on the fact that I read an adult fairy tale and loved it! Like, what!? I received a package from @randoI think we should all take a minute to reflect on the fact that I read an adult fairy tale and loved it! Like, what!? I received a package from @randomhouse and it included Meg Shaffer's latest novel, THE LOST STORY, and I was very intrigued. Inspired by The Chronicles of Narnia, I was immediately enamored by the synopsis as that series was one of my favorites growing up. As teenagers, best friends Jeremy and Rafe disappeared in a West Virginia forest and somehow reappeared six months later with no memory of what happened. Now, fifteen years later, Rafe is a scarred, reclusive artist, while Jeremy has become a famous investigator for missing persons. When a vet tech named Emilie’s sister goes missing in the same forest, Jeremy, who secretly remembers who Emilie's sister is, decides to help her. Together, the three of them venture back into the forest, hoping to find Emilie’s sister and face the truth about their shared past.
I don't want to dive too much into the story, but think of the trees in The Nightmare Before Christmas, IYKYK. I loved the world building for this story and the queer romance and representation. THE LOST STORY is being called an adult fairy tale, which makes sense, and I'd also call it "fantasy-lite" as it didn't verge into the ridiculousness that I find a lot of fantasy novels dive into. I have no notes or critiques to comment on, but I do know that some people were frustrated with the idea of "telling vs immersing" the reader during certain events towards the end, but I believed that to be part of the story as I think they just led to a greater picture if the story continues into a series. Ask me if you'd like to know more about what I mean here, it's difficult to say much without spoiling. If this book does become part of a great universe or series, I will be tuning in....more
Archer Read, a 27-year-old accountant from Ohio, moves to Manhattan with dreams of Broadway stardom but ends up with nothing but rejection. Desperate Archer Read, a 27-year-old accountant from Ohio, moves to Manhattan with dreams of Broadway stardom but ends up with nothing but rejection. Desperate for a shot, he takes a job dancing at Shady Queens, a queer-friendly resort, where he’s shocked to find himself working with his former celebrity crush, fallen Broadway star Mateo Dixon. As Archer navigates Mateo’s icy demeanor, a fling with his bunkmate Caleb, and the chaotic drama of the dance crew, he discovers that chasing your dreams means confronting heartbreak—both on and off the stage.
I am more and more getting into MM romance and this one is a very cute romance and queer family story. I loved Shady Queens and their staff and would love to go to a resort like this in real life. There were a lot of slow moving parts, but there’s a lot of vulnerability and accountability with their characters (specifically one main character) which I loved. The ending was a bit abrupt, but I did enjoy this book. It’s definitely more cutesy than sexy, and the romance plays a much much much lower end on the plot point than you’d expect. I would definitely read more from this author. ...more
When college student, awkward and shy Ryan, is assigned a new dorm roommate, he did not expect it to be Miller MacAvoy. Miller is gorgeous, athletic, When college student, awkward and shy Ryan, is assigned a new dorm roommate, he did not expect it to be Miller MacAvoy. Miller is gorgeous, athletic, confident, and wealthy. Miller is the only person Ryan knows that doesn’t get any ...more
Craig Willse's dark academia gay thriller, PROVIDENCE, was a total blast—infusing The Talented Mr. Ripley, Saltburn, and Micah Nemerever's These VioleCraig Willse's dark academia gay thriller, PROVIDENCE, was a total blast—infusing The Talented Mr. Ripley, Saltburn, and Micah Nemerever's These Violent Delights into one wildly entertaining experience.
The story is centered around Mark Lausson—an English professor at an elite liberal arts school in the middle of Ohio, who becomes infatuated with a sophomore soccer player, charismatic and handsome Tyler Cunningham. Tyler draws Mark in with his personality and looks in ways that Mark can't describe. Mark starts centering his life around Tyler's every move, becoming more and more ingrained into Tyler's world. Knowing that this relationship is unprofessional, Mark tries to fight back, but can't seem to let Tyler go. As the two forge a sexual relationship, Mark starts seeing that Tyler can't be trusted. However, once Mark is locked into Tyler's world, it's hard to escape.
This book was so much fun and I read it in two sittings. I normally don't prioritize dark academia books, but the cover and synopsis drew me in immediately. This book will turn in ways you won't expect and its steamy in all the right ways without going over the top. At its core, PROVIDENCE is a mystery/thriller, but there's moments in which we get social commentary on LGBTQ+ culture as well. I absolutely loved how the story ended and was surprised to see it go that direction (in a good way). I can't wait to see what Craig Willse has in store for readers next. ...more
Bryan Washington's FAMILY MEAL is one of my most anticipated Fall 2023 reads after loving his last book, Memorial. FAMILY MEAL is an unapologetically Bryan Washington's FAMILY MEAL is one of my most anticipated Fall 2023 reads after loving his last book, Memorial. FAMILY MEAL is an unapologetically queer novel about love, grief, chosen-family, and self-acceptance. The story centers around three main characters—Cam, his boyfriend Kai who has recently passed away, and TJ. TJ and Cam grew up together after Cam's parents had died when he was younger, but the two have a strained relationship as adults. When Cam moves back to Houston after living in Los Angeles with his boyfriend, he is picking up the pieces after Kai's death and learning how to move on and cope. Cam is emotionally unstable, maintaining a job at a local bar struggling to survive real estate costs, while putting himself in irresponsible sexual encounters to mask his pain. When Cam bumps into TJ, the two try to work towards a healthy future together after being estranged for so long.
FAMILY MEAL is a story about love, sex, and vulnerability. I don't want to give too much about this book, but it is emotionally charged to say the least. The Karens will lose it over the gay sex that is featured in this book, but it isn't very explicit for those who like a more "fade to black" type of romantic encounter in their books. This book is grief heavy and will make you think—specifically for how the queer community creates their own family during times in need and how to navigate that. I could relate to parts of this book, and I also could see people in my inner circle resembling some of the characters. FAMILY MEAL gets another stamp of approval by me from Bryan Washington. I will read anything he publishes for his readers. ...more
THE RACHEL INCIDENT was a nice break from my usual mystery/thriller binge lately and I'm happy that I picked it up when I did. The story focuses on RaTHE RACHEL INCIDENT was a nice break from my usual mystery/thriller binge lately and I'm happy that I picked it up when I did. The story focuses on Rachel Murray and the dynamic she has with her roommate and best friend James. The two meet while she's working at a bookstore and she becomes enamored with him, but he is gay and the friendship is platonic. I believe in friendship soulmates 100%. Rachel is in college and soon falls for English professor, Dr. Byrne. Dr. Byrne is married, but that doesn't stop him from being front and center of the drama between Rachel and James. However, the story goes a lot deeper than that once you start turning the pages (and you'll see what I mean especially at the end of the author's acknowledgments).
The friendship in THE RACHEL INCIDENT is compelling and powerful as it authentically portrays the dynamic of two friends who maintain love for each other over obstacles that may be unexpected. I can't say more without spoiling, but this journey that Rachel and James embark on spans their college and adult lives and it was fun seeing how the two turned out in the end. Provocative and personal, THE RACHEL INCIDENT almost feels as if it was a non-fiction as I ventured through the story as it is incredibly personal. If you enjoyed the books Conversations (Sally Rooney) with Friends or Fleishman Is in Trouble (Taffy Brodesser-Akner), you'll enjoy THE RACHEL INCIDENT. ...more
A great continuation of the Andy Mills series, with more of Andy’s own personal story to explore. This story is slower paced than Lavender House and IA great continuation of the Andy Mills series, with more of Andy’s own personal story to explore. This story is slower paced than Lavender House and I didn’t love the quick wrap up at the end, but I loved the historical research that the author included with this story. I hope we see more of Andy’s personal life as this series goes on!...more
I am so happy Byron Lane is coming out with another book! I really enjoyed his debut novel, A Star is Bored, but was curious to see what his next bookI am so happy Byron Lane is coming out with another book! I really enjoyed his debut novel, A Star is Bored, but was curious to see what his next book would be since that book was extracted from his time working for Carrie Fisher. His newest book, BIG GAY WEDDING, cements Lane into my auto-read author category moving forward and I will tell you why!
This book centers around Barnett Durang and his mother Chrissy. Chrissy operates a farm in rural Louisiana and is awaiting her son's return home from Los Angeles (aka Looney Tunes). Barnett has big news to tell Chrissy, but she has no idea what it could be. Will he be moving back to take care of the farm? When Barnett arrives, he informs his mother that he is engaged to a man named Ezra and he wants her to meet him. Chrissy is very small town and closed-minded, but is trying to not let her skewed perception of homosexuality ruin her relationship with her son. Barnett also informs his mother that Ezra wants to meet her. After everything said and done, Chrissy is left hosting the wedding at her farm. She is concerned because not only does she struggle with her son's sexuality, their town isn't the most accepting. What will become of this once news gets out about this wedding?
If you like Schitts Creek, THIS IS YOUR BOOK. I absolutely loved it. It's camp, it's fun, it's dramatic, it's...CAMP! I just have to repeat that one once more. The story will pull at your heartstrings, but it's mainly a comedy with great social messaging. I read this book in two sittings and will recommend this to ANY reader who may not feel fully on board with same-sex marriage. I truly think this book will open the eyes for people, that is if they actually can get access to it. I laughed so much in this book (chocolates anyone?), and you will too. This book is a great palate cleanser after reading something dense and dark, so definitely put it on your TBR. I imagine this will be in my top reads of the year in some capacity, so I'm excited to see what you think of BIG GAY WEDDING!...more
Steven Rowley is one author who can break me out of my thriller comfort zone and devour a book I probably wouldn't pick up by anyone else. He is just Steven Rowley is one author who can break me out of my thriller comfort zone and devour a book I probably wouldn't pick up by anyone else. He is just such an amazing writer and storyteller, and his newest book THE CELEBRANTS is just another example of how talented Mr. Rowley is. THE CELEBRANTS is a character-driven journey through a decades-long friendship between a solid group of friends, but the two most notable characters, Jordan and his husband Jordy, were my favorites. The synopsis doesn't talk about the characters' journeys, so I will be quiet about how I effin cried by the end of it, and if you read the book, you know what I mean. This book has comedy and drama, is light-hearted and eye-opening, and crushingly sad. How does a book have all those emotions wrapped up in a gorgeous cover? The world may never know.
One thing about this book that I may end up doing moving forward with my own friend group is having "living funerals" as I think that could really benefit us. It's such a unique idea to show your love for the people you care about, albeit a bit morbid, but whatever! For real though, when you get to the end of the book and are done reading it, let's talk about those final chapters. That last "living funeral" legit broke my heart. Ugh, that's it, I can't say more. Steven Rowley, thanks for breaking my thriller binge and writing a book that I will never forget. STARS: 4, PUB: 5/16...more
Richard Mirabella's debut novel, BROTHER & SISTER ENTER THE FOREST is a poetic literary fiction novel that juggles the dynamics between two siblings, Richard Mirabella's debut novel, BROTHER & SISTER ENTER THE FOREST is a poetic literary fiction novel that juggles the dynamics between two siblings, Justin and Willa, and the toxic relationships they encounter, both between themselves and others. Willa and Justin have a difficult and troubling relationship, with Willa trying to maintain her own mental peace from the troubles of her brother's past, yet she is conflicted on whether or not to continue to help her brother with the struggles he encounters. The trauma she witnessed was painful, but her brother's PTSD from his trauma has left him damaged and she battles between what is the right thing to do. BROTHER & SISTER ENTER THE FOREST is a touch and tragic depiction of a family that struggles between helping family try to succeed and wanting to escape from the chaos for themselves. I don't think I've read anything quite like this book before and I'm excited to see what this author has in store for readers next. ...more
This book is unlike any book I’ve ever read—it’s an in-your-face journey of a Black gay man and his struggle for acceptance, but also involves a lot oThis book is unlike any book I’ve ever read—it’s an in-your-face journey of a Black gay man and his struggle for acceptance, but also involves a lot of bird watching?! The story takes place in the UK and focuses on our main character, Harley and his attempted suicide that was thwarted by his friend’s boyfriend. Harley is unsure what to make of his newfound friendship with Muddy because they’re very different. Muddy is straight, confident, and carefree. Muddy and Harley form a unique bond that I can tell you, every gay man wishes they could have with heterosexual men if they don’t have one already. However, this friendship isn’t without hurdles for the reader to uncover.
This book is not a romance. It’s a deep dive into mental health, self acceptance, and friendship. This book talks about serious topics, but is done so in a very healthy and formative way. At times, this book is lighthearted and will put a smile on your face; but it can also have its moments of serious conflict that will leave you breathless. SMALL JOYS is a book I don’t think I’ll ever forget....more
After four years, John Fram is back ladies and gentlemen and he's better than ever! Fram's upcoming summer 2024 release, NO ROAD HOME, is the perfect After four years, John Fram is back ladies and gentlemen and he's better than ever! Fram's upcoming summer 2024 release, NO ROAD HOME, is the perfect combination of GOOD RICH PEOPLE (Eliza Jane Brazier) meets television series The Righteous Gemstones. The book is centered around Toby Tucker and his young son Luca. Toby and Luca have such an incredible bond and Toby is a dedicated and loving father, but his parenting comes into question after he marries Alyssa Wright. Alyssa is the granddaughter of Jerome Wright, the famous televangelist who uses religion as a basis of hate on his popular television program. The Wrights are extremely wealthy and live in a small town in Texas where they basically run the county. When Alyssa invites Toby and her new step-son Luca to her family home, Toby enters the lion's den. Alyssa claims that her family is "too rich to be bigoted" but when Toby and Luca arrive, they realize that something isn't adding up with the Wright family. The situation grows worse when a storm cuts off the transportation in/out of their home and they lose WiFi and Internet service and the family wakes up with a murder. When all suspicions lead to Toby, he must figure out who's really guilty while also protecting his son at all costs.
This book is very different than Fram's last book, THE BRIGHT LANDS, but the metaphorical messaging still gives you Fram vibes. Even with over 400 pages, I read this book in two sittings because I couldn't put it down. The action starts very early into the story and the twist is SO F**KING GOOD! I'm telling you now, you will never expect how this book develops. There's three characters who I absolutely loved (no spoilers), a lot of characters who I loved to hate, and a lot of twists and turns that I did not expect. I absolutely loved this book. John, please don't have us waiting four years ever again bb!...more