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In My Heart #1
An Infatuation
With his ten-year high school reunion approaching, Harold wonders whether Mario will be as muscular, sexy, and tantalizing as he remembers. As a teenager, it was love at first sight for Harold while tutoring football star Mario, until homophobia and bullying drove Mario deep into the closet. Now they’re both married men. Mario, a model, is miserable with his producer wife, while Harold, a teacher, is perfectly content with his businessman husband, Stuart. When the two meet again, will the old flame reignite, setting Harold’s comfortable life ablaze? How can Harold be happy with Stuart when he is still infatuated with his Adonis, his first love, Mario? Harold faces this seemingly impossible situation with inimitable wit, tenderness, and humor as he attempts to reconcile the past and the future.
103 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2015
1 person is currently reading
286 people want to read
About the author
Joe Cosentino
45 books192 followersJOE COSENTINO was voted Favorite MM Mystery, Humorous, and Contemporary Author of the Year by the readers of Divine Magazine for Drama Queen, the first Nicky and Noah mystery novel. He is also the author of the remaining Nicky and Noah mysteries: Drama Muscle, Drama Cruise, Drama Luau, Drama Detective, Drama Fraternity, Drama Castle, Drama Dance, Drama Faerie, Drama Runway, Drama Christmas, Drama Pan, Drama TV, Drama Oz, Drama Prince, Drama Merry, Drama Daddy, Drama King; the Player Piano Mysteries: The Player and The Player’s Encore; the Jana Lane Mysteries: Paper Doll, Porcelain Doll, Satin Doll, China Doll, Rag Doll; the Cozzi Cove series: Cozzi Cove: Bouncing Back, Moving Forward, Stepping Out, New Beginnings, Happy Endings; the In My Heart Anthology: An Infatuation & A Shooting Star; the Tales from Fairyland Anthology: The Naked Prince and Other Tales from Fairyland and Holiday Tales from Fairyland; the Bobby and Paolo Holiday Stories Anthology: A Home for the Holidays, The Perfect Gift, The First Noel; and the Found At Last Anthology: Finding Giorgio and Finding Armando. His books have won numerous Book of the Month awards and Rainbow Award Honorable Mentions. As an actor, Joe appeared in principal roles in film, television, and theatre, opposite stars such as Bruce Willis, Rosie O’Donnell, Nathan Lane, Jason Robards, and Holland Taylor. He received his Master of Fine Arts degree from Goddard College, Master’s degree from SUNY New Paltz, and is currently a happily married emeritus college theatre professor residing in New York State.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
August 7, 2015
~
What if we'd given love a real shot way back then?
What if he'd have been brave enough to try?
What if he'd never gotten married?
What if *I'd* never gotten married?
This book doesn't actually come right out and ask those questions, but they're on the reader's mind from early on in the book.
The story was not at all the story that I had expected when reading the blurb. What I expected was cheating and deceit, lots of sex and angst, but the story that I read was most definitely not *that*. Which was pretty great.
From the first few pages, I had a feeling that this book was going to be entirely different than your typical M/M read. And it was.
My jaw literally hit the floor when the main character, Harold, was speaking to the reader about his infatuation with the other main character, Mario, but is interrupted by Stuart, his *husband* of 19 1/2 years, to remind Harold not to forget details about his relationship with *another* man. His first love, Mario.
But here's the thing. I know the story began in high school and aborted relationships that never came to fruition don't normally feel very deep in retrospect. But I never, not once throughout the book, felt that what Harold and Mario had way back then, or even later in the book, was an infatuation.
It was love. Plain and simple.
Well, simple is probably the wrong word, as homophobic family members and friends ultimately get in the way, but the feelings of love were right there on the page. Whether spoken or unspoken, in my mind they were real.
The story spans from the time when Harold, the smart, witty nerd first speaks to Mario, the attractive, arrogant football player at age 17, until 20 years later.
Over the course of the story, we see an almost immediate connection between Harold and Mario, then they lose touch (as Mario flees to the relative safety of his closet, repeatedly) and then reconnect several times throughout the years.
But each time that they are actually together, you can feel the connection, again, whether the actual words are spoken or not.
It really is a great story, with lots of humor (from Harold's *constant* blurting and snarky inner monologue), genuine feelings and even a few tears from and for both of our would-be heroes.
There are some extremely unexpected plot twists, which do actually serve a purpose, so they do not come across as feeling gimmicky. Some of them I really enjoyed and some of which made me want to cry for what might have been.
And for those of you who avoid cheaters like cats avoid water, this is my official thumbs up that this book shouldn't affront those particular sensibilities.
The author also did an amazing job of avoiding the 'angsty read' trap.
I highly recommend this very heart-felt, low-steam read with both its bittersweet *and* HEA endings.
4 1/2 stars for this tale of "what if's" and "the one that got away."
-------------------------------------------
NOTE: THIS BOOK WOULD MAKE A *GREAT* BUDDY READ.
I found myself *constantly* dying to talk about it with someone as I read.
This book was provided to me by the publisher for a fair, unbiased review.
UPDATE: Joe said he's also writing Mario Jr's story, which I personally can't wait for.
What if we'd given love a real shot way back then?
What if he'd have been brave enough to try?
What if he'd never gotten married?
What if *I'd* never gotten married?
This book doesn't actually come right out and ask those questions, but they're on the reader's mind from early on in the book.
The story was not at all the story that I had expected when reading the blurb. What I expected was cheating and deceit, lots of sex and angst, but the story that I read was most definitely not *that*. Which was pretty great.
From the first few pages, I had a feeling that this book was going to be entirely different than your typical M/M read. And it was.
PASSION. FLAME. Cherished one. Infatuation. Words don’t measure up. How can I tell you how I feel about Mario? Mario. It’s as if the universe created one perfect person, and put him next to me with a "Keep Off" sign dangling from his neck.
My jaw literally hit the floor when the main character, Harold, was speaking to the reader about his infatuation with the other main character, Mario, but is interrupted by Stuart, his *husband* of 19 1/2 years, to remind Harold not to forget details about his relationship with *another* man. His first love, Mario.
But here's the thing. I know the story began in high school and aborted relationships that never came to fruition don't normally feel very deep in retrospect. But I never, not once throughout the book, felt that what Harold and Mario had way back then, or even later in the book, was an infatuation.
It was love. Plain and simple.
Well, simple is probably the wrong word, as homophobic family members and friends ultimately get in the way, but the feelings of love were right there on the page. Whether spoken or unspoken, in my mind they were real.
Mario: “Harold, you still love me?”And that's a bit how I think of Harold and Mario's relationship. Something that would begin with, "Once upon a time..."
Harold: I squeezed his hands. “Like I love every fairy tale my mother ever read to me as a child.”
The story spans from the time when Harold, the smart, witty nerd first speaks to Mario, the attractive, arrogant football player at age 17, until 20 years later.
Over the course of the story, we see an almost immediate connection between Harold and Mario, then they lose touch (as Mario flees to the relative safety of his closet, repeatedly) and then reconnect several times throughout the years.
“Harold, it’s really good to see you. I’ll give you a call.” He ran away.
You don’t have my number. But I have yours. And it looks like it hasn’t changed.
But each time that they are actually together, you can feel the connection, again, whether the actual words are spoken or not.
It really is a great story, with lots of humor (from Harold's *constant* blurting and snarky inner monologue), genuine feelings and even a few tears from and for both of our would-be heroes.
There are some extremely unexpected plot twists, which do actually serve a purpose, so they do not come across as feeling gimmicky. Some of them I really enjoyed and some of which made me want to cry for what might have been.
Mario: “Harold, this reminds me of that poem you taught me about in high school by Robert what’s his name. Remember the red, red rose? Even though it goes away, after the snow and shit clear up, it comes back again in June… every ten years. Even though we can’t be together, Harold, you’ll always be my red, red rose.”
Harold: I told you he was the best.
And for those of you who avoid cheaters like cats avoid water, this is my official thumbs up that this book shouldn't affront those particular sensibilities.
The author also did an amazing job of avoiding the 'angsty read' trap.
I highly recommend this very heart-felt, low-steam read with both its bittersweet *and* HEA endings.
4 1/2 stars for this tale of "what if's" and "the one that got away."
-------------------------------------------
NOTE: THIS BOOK WOULD MAKE A *GREAT* BUDDY READ.
I found myself *constantly* dying to talk about it with someone as I read.
This book was provided to me by the publisher for a fair, unbiased review.
UPDATE: Joe said he's also writing Mario Jr's story, which I personally can't wait for.
April 6, 2015
I'm not a huge fan of a book told in flashbacks but this one worked. This story completely pulled at my emotions and the characters were perfect, loved them all.
September 6, 2015
Minutes are worth more than money. Spend them wisely.
Thomas P. Murphy
Time.
It's a funny thing; it heals, it flies, it can be wasted or treasured. It's too short - or too long -, it's of the moment and the past and the future. But what can time do to infatuation? That one perfect first love? This is what Harold, and his husband, Stuart, wonder when Harold's ten year reunion comes round.
High School, being a teenager, developing from childhood to adulthood and all the emotions and fears and uncertainty that comes with it can be both the best and worst time of a person's life. Whilst it is true that the start of the journey is just there, any route still able to be taken, it is also true that being different - and fear of being different - can hinder, cripple, the choices a person makes.
When a person has to hide who they are, for fear of ridicule, of violence. Of being an outsider, friendless, alone. Of abandonment. When a person has to hide because of these - and many more - factors, then ultimately the routes that seem so wide open are suddenly diminishing. Choices are becoming fewer, decisions harder, options minimising. Life becomes a compromise. And not a compromise through choice, but a forced compromise. Even in the land of hope and plenty.
As we wander back with Harold through his memories, it is easy to see him as the victim. The weak one. The one who is different, who is bullied, who is (in the eyes of his peers, and they are so important at the time) lesser. Mario on the other hand, has it all. He is popular, good-looking, a jock. His family have money. He is well known and well liked. The boy at the top of his game. So basically, they are two opposites: nerd and jock, popular and not, strong and weak.
And ain't that the truth? Though as we follow Harold's story, it becomes obvious that those black and white lines are actually much further from defined than one would first think. And this is because Joe Cosentino is a very clever writer. He takes the stereotype (I admit to using that word hesitantly) and shows more. I've said before that this author is very observational, and he really is. He takes a character, makes them almost cartoon like, then cleverly dissects away to reveal the real them. And all with a brilliant touch of humour.
And make no mistake, this author is very, very witty. With the timing of the actor he is, his humour shines through, again and again. Hah - time again. The perfect time to wit. (It's my review, I can make a noun a verb if I want. Even if it does make me think of owls, which are in no way part of this review).
As well as Harold, his loving and understanding husband, Stuart, and Mario, there is one other character I want to mention. Mr Ringwood. I had extreme feelings about Mr Ringwood. At first glance I despised him. Though understanding, he didn't have enough backbone to do the right thing. How he treated Harold was wrong - so, wrong. And he knew it. But in a way he was as much a victim as Harold. Not at that precise point in time in the same way Harold was, and don't get me wrong, as an adult it was his job to protect Harold, but he was a victim nonetheless. For all the reasons listed above. Time had yet to help him though. Time did nothing more at that point than make the fear bigger. Too big to do the right thing. Later though, time does help, he knows it, knows it's too late for him, that it is time for someone else.
"It's too late for me. My time has gone, but your time, Harold, is now."
Like an onion, Joe Cosentino's stories have layers. I would really recommend them. This is a Bittersweet novel, but it has laughs-a-plenty despite the sad and ugly lurking beneath the veneer. A truly fabulous read.
reviewed previously at BMBR.
March 1, 2015
I admit, I have no idea, at the moment, how to actually review this book. It's certainly different than what I would have expected from just reading the blurb, and even with Todd's amazing review, it took me by surprise. But I'm not sure yet how to review it. I'll give it some thought.
Edited to add:
I really wanted to write an actual review for this book, but I just can't do it without giving anything away. All the things I would love to talk about and rail about would spoil the story and I'm not going to do it, even with spoiler tags. It's a very different read than my usual, in pretty much every way. The story structure, the nature of the HEA... it's different. Good, but different. I am among the hopeful in hoping that the author will continue the story in some fashion.
Edited to add:
I really wanted to write an actual review for this book, but I just can't do it without giving anything away. All the things I would love to talk about and rail about would spoil the story and I'm not going to do it, even with spoiler tags. It's a very different read than my usual, in pretty much every way. The story structure, the nature of the HEA... it's different. Good, but different. I am among the hopeful in hoping that the author will continue the story in some fashion.
April 26, 2015
Wow! So many feelz for a 100-page book. I really enjoyed this one. It’s told from Harold’s POV in flashbacks to when he was in high school. He was your typical geek pining for Mario, the class president and football star. Very sweet ending, which caused a few tears to fall.
And major props to Hannah for her “It Gets Better” speech, pointing out that for people like Mario and Barbara, high school is their glory days. Their best days. Ever. But for other people, like Harold, he just needs to survive high school and he’ll go on to do amazing things in the real world.
And major props to Hannah for her “It Gets Better” speech, pointing out that for people like Mario and Barbara, high school is their glory days. Their best days. Ever. But for other people, like Harold, he just needs to survive high school and he’ll go on to do amazing things in the real world.
April 25, 2015
*** 5 bittersweet stars!***
You know when one good story consumed you, when in the end, you feel like,
"Okay, I'm crying, this shouldn't be happening, but it should be happened like this".
And all you can do is crying, and telling yourself,
"Hey, it's okay...you know what was coming, right?".
And you're just nodded and and cry. Again.
And your head playing a scenario of ... "What if?"
And this book did that.
A not so clever Mario and his smart friend Harold, a high school sweetheart *in the closet*
What Harold and Mario had was beautiful, but bitter at the same time.
But Mario was a jock, and he can't be gay, right?
A High School hero can't be gay, he should be 'normal', have a girlfriend and shit. And when everybody 'smell' your infatuation with a faggot Harold, you're just have to leave him and get a girlfriend. Just like that.
And a brokenhearted Harold moved on with his life and made a good life with his long term husband, Stuart, the perfect one.
On the other hand, what's Mario had been through, made him suffered, lost his way, and still missing his Harold. Life's not too friendly with Mario in the end. Poor guy. I cried for him, for what he's been through with his stupid family, for his choices (or can I say, for his only choice because he can't choose?).
Words of advice from me, don't let the blurb fool you.
The only MC in this story is definitely Harold.
There are Stuart and Mario. His 'real' and his 'dream'.
This book is worth re-reading, one of the best book I have ever read this year.
You are an amazing story teller Joe Cosentino
Highly recommended!
Warning:
You need some tissues to prepare.
Some of my favorite quotes;
“Harold, two men together. It’s against God.”
“You’ve talked to God lately?”
Nothing in the world is single;
All things by a law divine,
In one spirit meet and mingle.
Why not I with thine?
“Books don’t make sense to me, Harold.” He pulled out a book. “Like Romeo and Juliet. If I ever dated a girl whose old man hated my guts, I’d kick his ass. And another thing I don’t get about that book is if Romeo and Juliet were so head over heels in love, how come they don’t end up happily ever after?”
And it's me after 90% of the book :(
And finally...
NOTE
No, I didn't receive an ARC, I'm not a beta reader, I didn't know the author before I read this book.
This book given as my birthday gift from a friend.
This is an honest review :)
If you loved Beneath the Stain by Amy Lane, you're going to love this!
February 18, 2015
Sweet, Extremely Spot-On,, Read
Please read the book blurb, it will set you up and not give anything away.
This review will point out one thing: Every main character in this book has serious personality issues--Harold, his husband Stuart, his high school pal and lover Mario, and Mario's wife What's-Her-Name (trust me, that's what she is). But the remarkable thing is that Joe Cosentino gives you all the information you need in just about 100 pages to figure out that in New Jersey over the past 20 years, this is all very logical because even though each character appears to be a stereotype, he or she is absolutely real--they exist!.
Just one note of caution: As an Italian-American from across the river in New York, I could have easily become offended by some of the portrayals involving Mario and his friends and family. As a caution to other Italian-Americans, let me state that some of us are like that, some of us are not, and some of us are in between. I would think that an author with the name of Joe Cosentino would get this right, and he has. Huge surprise at the end, and in the end...life goes on, oh-blah-dee-oh-blah-da...
Please read the book blurb, it will set you up and not give anything away.
This review will point out one thing: Every main character in this book has serious personality issues--Harold, his husband Stuart, his high school pal and lover Mario, and Mario's wife What's-Her-Name (trust me, that's what she is). But the remarkable thing is that Joe Cosentino gives you all the information you need in just about 100 pages to figure out that in New Jersey over the past 20 years, this is all very logical because even though each character appears to be a stereotype, he or she is absolutely real--they exist!.
Just one note of caution: As an Italian-American from across the river in New York, I could have easily become offended by some of the portrayals involving Mario and his friends and family. As a caution to other Italian-Americans, let me state that some of us are like that, some of us are not, and some of us are in between. I would think that an author with the name of Joe Cosentino would get this right, and he has. Huge surprise at the end, and in the end...life goes on, oh-blah-dee-oh-blah-da...
May 8, 2015
This book. I wrote an entire off the rails, snot filled, mascara smeared review. And some how it didn't save. Fvck!!!!!!!!
This deserves a real review from me. I'll wait to rewrite once I'm on a pc.
This deserves a real review from me. I'll wait to rewrite once I'm on a pc.
January 2, 2016
2.5 Stars
This review contains mild spoilers.
My grandmother used to say all the time, “The two most useless phrases in all of language are ‘What if’ and ‘If only’, Belen. It’s pointless. If you spend all your time worrying about the Future or focusing on the Past you miss the greatest gift – the Present.”
Told almost entirely in flashbacks to twenty years ago, eighteen years ago, ten years ago, seven years ago, and then returning to the Present, this story has quite a lot of humor and a whole lot of yearning (and a twist ending) as Harold relates the story of his not-so-unrequited love affair with Mario, the one that got away.
What I enjoyed:
☆ A lot of the humor.
☆ The obvious love the author had for his characters and story.
☆ And I loved Stuart, Harold's husband of 19 1/2 years, with all of his schedules and planning.
What I didn't like:
♣ The constant pining for lost love Mario. Especially since Stuart is right there and is so obviously perfect for Harold.
♣ Harold kissing and making out with Mario at their reunion, even though they're both married to other people.
♣ The ending.
Ah, the ending. I'm sorry, but I straight up hated the ending. I had been struggling with the story before that point, but when the doorbell rang and you read the end? I wanted to crush something. I'm sorry, but after all of that I wanted a happy ending.
Recommended for those who love a good "one that got away" story with good humor and a side of angst.
This review contains mild spoilers.
My grandmother used to say all the time, “The two most useless phrases in all of language are ‘What if’ and ‘If only’, Belen. It’s pointless. If you spend all your time worrying about the Future or focusing on the Past you miss the greatest gift – the Present.”
Told almost entirely in flashbacks to twenty years ago, eighteen years ago, ten years ago, seven years ago, and then returning to the Present, this story has quite a lot of humor and a whole lot of yearning (and a twist ending) as Harold relates the story of his not-so-unrequited love affair with Mario, the one that got away.
What I enjoyed:
☆ A lot of the humor.
☆ The obvious love the author had for his characters and story.
☆ And I loved Stuart, Harold's husband of 19 1/2 years, with all of his schedules and planning.
What I didn't like:
♣ The constant pining for lost love Mario. Especially since Stuart is right there and is so obviously perfect for Harold.
♣ Harold kissing and making out with Mario at their reunion, even though they're both married to other people.
♣ The ending.
Ah, the ending. I'm sorry, but I straight up hated the ending. I had been struggling with the story before that point, but when the doorbell rang and you read the end? I wanted to crush something. I'm sorry, but after all of that I wanted a happy ending.
Recommended for those who love a good "one that got away" story with good humor and a side of angst.
June 12, 2016
I can't find the words to adequately express how much I cherish this book or how privileged I feel to have had the opportunity to experience the beauty contained within it's pages.
Compelling from the first chapter, this book pulls you in and takes you on a journey that is funny, moving, clever, addictive and sexy as hell.
I don't want to give anything away so I'll only say this: This book is a joy to read and any fan of M/M who doesn't take the opportunity to experience it is doing themselves a great disservice.
Compelling from the first chapter, this book pulls you in and takes you on a journey that is funny, moving, clever, addictive and sexy as hell.
I don't want to give anything away so I'll only say this: This book is a joy to read and any fan of M/M who doesn't take the opportunity to experience it is doing themselves a great disservice.
June 1, 2015
In many ways this story is the classic jock-nerd trope, but it doesn't lead to the typical love-conquers-all HEA. Definitely not an MM Romance, An Infatuation reads sort of like a sitcom screenplay in that the dialogue is laced with punchy one-liners by very exaggerated characters. The dumb jock, for example, is not just dumb, he's extremely dumb. The nerdy, homely best female friend is over the top in her geekiness. The anally retentive OCD father is so compulsive he plans everything, including vacation itineraries three years in advance.
That being said, it's hilarious. But while reading it I had to find the right frame of mind. I saw most of the characters and events as parody and didn't try to interpret them through a lens of reality. Like I said, I kind of viewed the story in the same way I watch sitcoms.
But because of this more lighthearted feel, I didn't connect emotionally with the main character the way I usually do with these unrequited love stories. Usually they tear my heart out, and I love every blubbering second of the experience. (This ain't no Brokeback Mountain.)
Obviously the author is extremely talented, so much that I feel kind of awkward even critiquing his work. The story is well written and delivers somewhat less than subtle messaging but not so didactic that it becomes preachy. The dialogue is side-splitting hilarious (reminiscent of TJ Klune). And the ending, though atypical, is very feel-good sweet with a sobering dose of disappointing realism.
I really hope we see more from this author. I loved the book.
That being said, it's hilarious. But while reading it I had to find the right frame of mind. I saw most of the characters and events as parody and didn't try to interpret them through a lens of reality. Like I said, I kind of viewed the story in the same way I watch sitcoms.
But because of this more lighthearted feel, I didn't connect emotionally with the main character the way I usually do with these unrequited love stories. Usually they tear my heart out, and I love every blubbering second of the experience. (This ain't no Brokeback Mountain.)
Obviously the author is extremely talented, so much that I feel kind of awkward even critiquing his work. The story is well written and delivers somewhat less than subtle messaging but not so didactic that it becomes preachy. The dialogue is side-splitting hilarious (reminiscent of TJ Klune). And the ending, though atypical, is very feel-good sweet with a sobering dose of disappointing realism.
I really hope we see more from this author. I loved the book.
May 21, 2015
I liked this story. It's like a cautionary tale to self-hating gays. I do feel feel really bad for Mario though. He had elements of the despicable in him but he also had the rough background to explain his actions.
April 28, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This review may contain some *mild* spoilers.
4.5 stars for this non-traditional M/M romance.
Lots of people rail about 3rd person over 1st person narratives. Well this is 1st person, which is my personal preference. But not only is the POV close, it's actually interactive with the reader, obliterating the fourth wall. This has worked for me with other books, and it worked for me here. It is told entirely as if the MC, Harold, if recounting his tale of enchantment and woe for my personal benefit. I dug that.
And here's why:
*Insert wavy lines/turn on the Way-Back machine*
*travel 20 years into the past*
Harold High is the typical teenage nerd, who is also gay. His sexuality isn't readily apparent, but his status is low enough that he's a bully target. He is assigned as a chemistry lab partner for Mario Ginneti, Adonis and football captain. Harold does so well helping Mario with chemistry, that Mario asks Harold to tutor him in...everything, including completing his college applications. Harold is more than happy to do so, as he's fully-gaga over Mario.
The more time Harold and Mario spend, the closer they become. Mario allows Harold to see the vulnerable side of him. Mario is beautiful, but hates himself. His alcoholic father is abusive and his mother is neglectful. His nonna is the only one who show him any care or love. Except Harold.
There are some explorations, always ending with Mario mortified and Harold emotionally shattered. Mario knows how Harold feels, and he seems to reciprocate, but he can't let himself be G. A. Y. He dates the cheerleading captain and gets into Yale and he and Harold are no longer in contact by graduation.
*Return to Way Back*
*the 10 year high school reunion looms*
Harold is excited to see Mario. Harold's life has gone picture book well. He has a rewarding career and a loving husband. He's been candid about his childhood feelings for Mario and Stuart, his husband, is anxious to meet The Legend. Mario's life hasn't gone the happy route. He is deeply unsatisfied and still desires Harold.
There is a point where Mario and Harold are alone and things could go bad (or good dependent upon one feels about infidelity) and I think the resolution of this infatuation is honest and reasonable.
This book is less a romance, and more a come-to-Jesus. It is about first love and faith and fidelity and finding one's real self. It is mostly told in flashback with brisk pacing so there isn't a ton of backstory bogging the pace. Harold is a lovely narrator, who is (at times) a bit teen-spastic. He's also very glib, and the humor comes off less snarky because he's so genuinely nice.
I loved Stuart, he's super brave and generous. In high school, Mario is timid about his questioning sexuality, but kind to Harold. He protects him and befriends him. As an adult, his greatest regret is not openly loving Harold. I did feel sorry for his choices, and didn't hate him for continuing to make poor ones. Understanding the deeper connections between these men--Harold and Mario--yielded a tender story. Do not expect any heat. This story is all about feels.
The end was unexpected, a bit sad, yet emotionally satisfying.
4.5 stars for this non-traditional M/M romance.
Lots of people rail about 3rd person over 1st person narratives. Well this is 1st person, which is my personal preference. But not only is the POV close, it's actually interactive with the reader, obliterating the fourth wall. This has worked for me with other books, and it worked for me here. It is told entirely as if the MC, Harold, if recounting his tale of enchantment and woe for my personal benefit. I dug that.
And here's why:
*Insert wavy lines/turn on the Way-Back machine*
*travel 20 years into the past*
Harold High is the typical teenage nerd, who is also gay. His sexuality isn't readily apparent, but his status is low enough that he's a bully target. He is assigned as a chemistry lab partner for Mario Ginneti, Adonis and football captain. Harold does so well helping Mario with chemistry, that Mario asks Harold to tutor him in...everything, including completing his college applications. Harold is more than happy to do so, as he's fully-gaga over Mario.
The more time Harold and Mario spend, the closer they become. Mario allows Harold to see the vulnerable side of him. Mario is beautiful, but hates himself. His alcoholic father is abusive and his mother is neglectful. His nonna is the only one who show him any care or love. Except Harold.
There are some explorations, always ending with Mario mortified and Harold emotionally shattered. Mario knows how Harold feels, and he seems to reciprocate, but he can't let himself be G. A. Y. He dates the cheerleading captain and gets into Yale and he and Harold are no longer in contact by graduation.
*Return to Way Back*
*the 10 year high school reunion looms*
Harold is excited to see Mario. Harold's life has gone picture book well. He has a rewarding career and a loving husband. He's been candid about his childhood feelings for Mario and Stuart, his husband, is anxious to meet The Legend. Mario's life hasn't gone the happy route. He is deeply unsatisfied and still desires Harold.
There is a point where Mario and Harold are alone and things could go bad (or good dependent upon one feels about infidelity) and I think the resolution of this infatuation is honest and reasonable.
This book is less a romance, and more a come-to-Jesus. It is about first love and faith and fidelity and finding one's real self. It is mostly told in flashback with brisk pacing so there isn't a ton of backstory bogging the pace. Harold is a lovely narrator, who is (at times) a bit teen-spastic. He's also very glib, and the humor comes off less snarky because he's so genuinely nice.
I loved Stuart, he's super brave and generous. In high school, Mario is timid about his questioning sexuality, but kind to Harold. He protects him and befriends him. As an adult, his greatest regret is not openly loving Harold. I did feel sorry for his choices, and didn't hate him for continuing to make poor ones. Understanding the deeper connections between these men--Harold and Mario--yielded a tender story. Do not expect any heat. This story is all about feels.
The end was unexpected, a bit sad, yet emotionally satisfying.
February 24, 2015
So much power in the simplicity of this gem of a novel. Totally blown away by this tale of fear, acceptance, sadness and above all, love. Love between two men who, because of the times, couldn't be together. Who loved each other through the years. Oh my, I sobbed at the end but they were tears of sadness and tears of happiness. I won't recap since my fellow Goodreaders have done that but this is a must read for lovers of mm romance!! Books like this are why I read romance. This is a new to me author and I eagerly look forward to more of his work.
December 15, 2015
This did not work so much for me. The intent was promising and the dialogue were good. But for me, the plot and delivery were both weak. The author's attempt for Harold to be funny in his narration did not bode for me well. A lot of times, the story felt forced and unnatural. I liked Stuart though and the role that he played in Harold's life. Uh, I guess I only liked Stuart.
February 9, 2015
4.5 star review by Dan
When we first meet Harold, it is current day, we learn he has a partner of nearly twenty years named Stuart and they are blissfully happy. We are also taken through a brief overview of their very structured lives. Up at 7am, dinner at 6pm, bed at 11pm, the full month’s menu on the refrigerator, with everything, including their volunteer hours on Saturdays, totally structured and scheduled. I always thought I was anal retentive, but after reading about Stuart, I realize I’m totally disorganized!
Harold is sitting down to write a story about his infatuation. Stuart reminds him to start the story twenty years ago so that the readers understand, and we’re off.
Next scene, we’re twenty years in the past and being introduced to Mario. Mario comes into Chemistry class late, and the teacher assigns him to be Harold’s lab partner. Only later in the book do we find out she had an ulterior motive.
Mario and Harold couldn’t be more opposite. Mario is a football player, the class president, and one of the popular crowd; and Harold is a red haired, tuba playing, nerd, and just happens to be gay…although he isn’t out and assumes no one knows.
When Mario asks Harold to help him with some of his courses, the plot thickens. Harold quickly develops feelings for Mario, but are they returned? Over the course of the story, Mario appears to get more and more drawn to Harold, who by this time is tutoring him in all his classes, as well as writing his college entrance essays for him.
Things start to fall apart though when Harold is attacked by a couple of Mario’s football buddies and almost raped. The only reason he isn’t raped is that Mario and Harold’s friend Hannah interrupt the potential rapists just as anal insertion is about to occur. The two guys get a one week suspension and then are right back at school, although they are thrown off the football team. The school principal brushes it aside by telling Harold that guys like Harold and he need to keep their heads down and not draw attention to themselves.
Harold’s heart is broken when Mario suddenly decides he is in love with the head cheerleader, and that they are going to get married eventually and what he and Harold have is unnatural and only a phase according to his priest. This has been driven home by Mario’s father telling him his uncle was gay and committed suicide by gassing himself in a car in a locked garage years before and that it was for the best because he was better off dead. The father also told Mario if he was like that he should do the same thing. This man also regularly beats his kids, so he is obviously a font of wisdom.
From there we are taken on a journey through the years, stopping at key events like a high school reunion to catch up on the boys. Harold is ever increasingly happy, Mario is the opposite. I’m not going to say any more, because it would be too easy to give away too much of the story.
I really enjoyed this book. Though I would be remiss if I didn’t say shame on you Mr. Cosentino for making this grumpy old bear get teary eyed at the ending. Great job! I recommend this book to anyone reminiscing about that one that got away.
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, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
When we first meet Harold, it is current day, we learn he has a partner of nearly twenty years named Stuart and they are blissfully happy. We are also taken through a brief overview of their very structured lives. Up at 7am, dinner at 6pm, bed at 11pm, the full month’s menu on the refrigerator, with everything, including their volunteer hours on Saturdays, totally structured and scheduled. I always thought I was anal retentive, but after reading about Stuart, I realize I’m totally disorganized!
Harold is sitting down to write a story about his infatuation. Stuart reminds him to start the story twenty years ago so that the readers understand, and we’re off.
Next scene, we’re twenty years in the past and being introduced to Mario. Mario comes into Chemistry class late, and the teacher assigns him to be Harold’s lab partner. Only later in the book do we find out she had an ulterior motive.
Mario and Harold couldn’t be more opposite. Mario is a football player, the class president, and one of the popular crowd; and Harold is a red haired, tuba playing, nerd, and just happens to be gay…although he isn’t out and assumes no one knows.
When Mario asks Harold to help him with some of his courses, the plot thickens. Harold quickly develops feelings for Mario, but are they returned? Over the course of the story, Mario appears to get more and more drawn to Harold, who by this time is tutoring him in all his classes, as well as writing his college entrance essays for him.
Things start to fall apart though when Harold is attacked by a couple of Mario’s football buddies and almost raped. The only reason he isn’t raped is that Mario and Harold’s friend Hannah interrupt the potential rapists just as anal insertion is about to occur. The two guys get a one week suspension and then are right back at school, although they are thrown off the football team. The school principal brushes it aside by telling Harold that guys like Harold and he need to keep their heads down and not draw attention to themselves.
Harold’s heart is broken when Mario suddenly decides he is in love with the head cheerleader, and that they are going to get married eventually and what he and Harold have is unnatural and only a phase according to his priest. This has been driven home by Mario’s father telling him his uncle was gay and committed suicide by gassing himself in a car in a locked garage years before and that it was for the best because he was better off dead. The father also told Mario if he was like that he should do the same thing. This man also regularly beats his kids, so he is obviously a font of wisdom.
From there we are taken on a journey through the years, stopping at key events like a high school reunion to catch up on the boys. Harold is ever increasingly happy, Mario is the opposite. I’m not going to say any more, because it would be too easy to give away too much of the story.
I really enjoyed this book. Though I would be remiss if I didn’t say shame on you Mr. Cosentino for making this grumpy old bear get teary eyed at the ending. Great job! I recommend this book to anyone reminiscing about that one that got away.
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, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
February 4, 2015
Original Blog Post: Happy Happy Release Day!!! eARC Review Request: AN INFATUATION by Joe Cosentino
An Infatuation is told from the point of view of Harold who tells his story almost like he is writing a book. The flashback tells of how Harold first meets Mario, the object of his teenage infatuation and one whom he'd always regarded as his first love and greatest regret. Mario is a jock without much regard for academics but he needed a tutor and saw Harold as his ticket to passing the grade and stay on the team. Fortunately for Mario, Harold is a fantastic tutor and his grades do improve. As for Harold, his heart gets bruised for he knows that Mario only has room for him as a tutor. Until the day Mario kisses him and everything changes.
The changes are not so good. Instead of getting the boy of his dreams to be the someone who would be his partner in the long haul, Mario opts for the straight path and gets involved with a girl. Their relationship begins to fall apart from that time on but there are moments when they do meet and they reconnect.
Years go by and the class reunion invitations are received and Harold, with his husband Stuart, attend the event. It is with apprehension that Howard waits for Mario to arrive and when he does, it was as if they never lost their connection. That is when things are revealed and another change in their relationship happens.
This was so beautifully written with words that just flowed seemingly effortless through each page. The characters written so clearly it was impossible not to know who they really were. Their thoughts, actions, behaviors, it was a very visual read I could not help but see this movie in my mind play out. The life Harold went through in high school were told in a very frank manner that I was left without doubt these were moments either witnessed by the author or experienced first hand. These scenes from Harold's high school days were at times funny and many times scary.
I really like Harold's character especially when he thought things out but said things differently. Stuart sounded a bit of a control freak and yet was not. He was just so organized, it was scary, too. And then there was Mario who never really had the chance to be who he really was so was a truly sad character. All these men were written so well they came out very real.
What made me truly love this story was the simplicity of the writing. Everything fell into place and I was not left wanting. There were times I laughed and then there were times I cried.
For a very simple story, this somehow came out unforgettable.
Note: Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
An Infatuation is told from the point of view of Harold who tells his story almost like he is writing a book. The flashback tells of how Harold first meets Mario, the object of his teenage infatuation and one whom he'd always regarded as his first love and greatest regret. Mario is a jock without much regard for academics but he needed a tutor and saw Harold as his ticket to passing the grade and stay on the team. Fortunately for Mario, Harold is a fantastic tutor and his grades do improve. As for Harold, his heart gets bruised for he knows that Mario only has room for him as a tutor. Until the day Mario kisses him and everything changes.
The changes are not so good. Instead of getting the boy of his dreams to be the someone who would be his partner in the long haul, Mario opts for the straight path and gets involved with a girl. Their relationship begins to fall apart from that time on but there are moments when they do meet and they reconnect.
Years go by and the class reunion invitations are received and Harold, with his husband Stuart, attend the event. It is with apprehension that Howard waits for Mario to arrive and when he does, it was as if they never lost their connection. That is when things are revealed and another change in their relationship happens.
This was so beautifully written with words that just flowed seemingly effortless through each page. The characters written so clearly it was impossible not to know who they really were. Their thoughts, actions, behaviors, it was a very visual read I could not help but see this movie in my mind play out. The life Harold went through in high school were told in a very frank manner that I was left without doubt these were moments either witnessed by the author or experienced first hand. These scenes from Harold's high school days were at times funny and many times scary.
I really like Harold's character especially when he thought things out but said things differently. Stuart sounded a bit of a control freak and yet was not. He was just so organized, it was scary, too. And then there was Mario who never really had the chance to be who he really was so was a truly sad character. All these men were written so well they came out very real.
What made me truly love this story was the simplicity of the writing. Everything fell into place and I was not left wanting. There were times I laughed and then there were times I cried.
For a very simple story, this somehow came out unforgettable.
Note: Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
March 12, 2015
Prism review of An Infatuation
By Joe Cosentino
3.5 stars
Harold High has his happy ever after.
Say that five times fast.
You must remember that 3 stars means good in my world, so 3.5 is very good. In Joe Cosentino’s “An Infatuation,” I really liked Harold, and his husband Stuart (who, most amusingly, is very like Harold’s father).
What I liked best about this short book is that it is essentially a young adult book written from an adult’s perspective, with an adult’s memories. What we get is Harold’s retelling of his decades-old infatuation with high school football jock Mario Ginetti. In his trip down memory lane, he is egged on by his partner of nearly twenty years who, while annoying in some ways, is clearly the love of Harold’s life. I don’t think I’ve encountered this sort of narrative structure before in a YA novel. Cosentino manages, through Harold’s middle-aged eyes and heart, to relive Harold’s high school experiences. There is humor and pain and all the discomforts of adolescence, but there is also the wisdom of years shaping the story.
My problem with the book, that half-star that’s missing, is that I never quite embraced Mario Ginetti, the romantic lead in the drama. It is easy to see how the awkward, teenaged Harold would fall for the dumb jock. This is the classic stuff of YA novels, after all. I also particularly liked the way Mario is presented at this early stage by Cosentino—Mario is as screwed up as we would expect any jock trying hard not to be gay to be. But he is beautiful and one can’t help but remember teenage infatuations and their irrationality.
What I had trouble buying into was the later appearances of Mario in Harold’s life. I don’t want to spoil anything, because Cosentino creates a good narrative sequence to bring us up to the present. Unlike Harold, I ceased to be charmed—or even particularly interested—in Mario after high school. I thus found it difficult to understand Harold’s own undying infatuation with this callow boy who used him when he was most vulnerable. Cosentino didn’t convince me that Mario was worth it, that Harold’s feelings made any sense in an adult deeply in love with someone else.
I do want people to read this book, because I loved the set up and I loved the lifelong arc of its romantic thread. Maybe you’ll be more taken by Mario than I was. Perhaps you will be caught up in Harold’s infatuation more fully than I was.
Possibly, since I never really had a high school infatuation, I just don’t know what it’s like.
I could be wrong, and that’s why I want you to read this book.
By Joe Cosentino
3.5 stars
Harold High has his happy ever after.
Say that five times fast.
You must remember that 3 stars means good in my world, so 3.5 is very good. In Joe Cosentino’s “An Infatuation,” I really liked Harold, and his husband Stuart (who, most amusingly, is very like Harold’s father).
What I liked best about this short book is that it is essentially a young adult book written from an adult’s perspective, with an adult’s memories. What we get is Harold’s retelling of his decades-old infatuation with high school football jock Mario Ginetti. In his trip down memory lane, he is egged on by his partner of nearly twenty years who, while annoying in some ways, is clearly the love of Harold’s life. I don’t think I’ve encountered this sort of narrative structure before in a YA novel. Cosentino manages, through Harold’s middle-aged eyes and heart, to relive Harold’s high school experiences. There is humor and pain and all the discomforts of adolescence, but there is also the wisdom of years shaping the story.
My problem with the book, that half-star that’s missing, is that I never quite embraced Mario Ginetti, the romantic lead in the drama. It is easy to see how the awkward, teenaged Harold would fall for the dumb jock. This is the classic stuff of YA novels, after all. I also particularly liked the way Mario is presented at this early stage by Cosentino—Mario is as screwed up as we would expect any jock trying hard not to be gay to be. But he is beautiful and one can’t help but remember teenage infatuations and their irrationality.
What I had trouble buying into was the later appearances of Mario in Harold’s life. I don’t want to spoil anything, because Cosentino creates a good narrative sequence to bring us up to the present. Unlike Harold, I ceased to be charmed—or even particularly interested—in Mario after high school. I thus found it difficult to understand Harold’s own undying infatuation with this callow boy who used him when he was most vulnerable. Cosentino didn’t convince me that Mario was worth it, that Harold’s feelings made any sense in an adult deeply in love with someone else.
I do want people to read this book, because I loved the set up and I loved the lifelong arc of its romantic thread. Maybe you’ll be more taken by Mario than I was. Perhaps you will be caught up in Harold’s infatuation more fully than I was.
Possibly, since I never really had a high school infatuation, I just don’t know what it’s like.
I could be wrong, and that’s why I want you to read this book.
February 12, 2015
As a fan of m/m books who's read numerous stories in this genre, Mr. Cosentino has crafted one that pulls at every one of your strings. It's a heartwarming read full of sentimentality as it looks back on the past giving thoughts of "what if?". It's full of heartache too, as well as harsh realities. It's a story that pulls no punches as it puts you through the emotional wringer and I was completely under its spell from beginning to end.
Harold was a nerd in high school but had a big heart. He knew he was gay, and though his parents were supportive, school was torturous as bullying was prevalent with little done about it. The only bright spot was tutoring football jock Mario and their subtle mutual attraction bubbling beneath the surface. At every turn Harold was supportive, letting Mario be as real as he could be with an abusive father and the weight of religious condemnation weighing on him. Mario though always ended up hurting him as he had relegated himself to the closet, making choices that would leave him miserable. Harold went on to happiness but never forgot Mario and at their reunion he's given the chance to fulfill a fantasy he's always had with the one boy who was perfection to him. Will he take a chance and throw away a loving relationship for a few clandestine moments with a man who's on the edge or will he choose the comfort of predictability that he knows.
This is an intensely emotional read that is more about heartfelt feelings than the steamy side of romance. The affection and attraction between Mario and Harold is seen more through words and deeds with only a few kisses along the way. There are numerous unexpected twists, and characters who are larger than life, to keep me fully immersed in this tale. Harold was a character to admire while Mario inspired pity and it's these differences, in a world where Harold was reviled while Mario was cheered, that kept me fully invested in their outcomes in a harsh world. There's surprising humor but also moments of sadness. It's ultimately about a life not lived and a life lived fully and I highly recommend it!
Harold was a nerd in high school but had a big heart. He knew he was gay, and though his parents were supportive, school was torturous as bullying was prevalent with little done about it. The only bright spot was tutoring football jock Mario and their subtle mutual attraction bubbling beneath the surface. At every turn Harold was supportive, letting Mario be as real as he could be with an abusive father and the weight of religious condemnation weighing on him. Mario though always ended up hurting him as he had relegated himself to the closet, making choices that would leave him miserable. Harold went on to happiness but never forgot Mario and at their reunion he's given the chance to fulfill a fantasy he's always had with the one boy who was perfection to him. Will he take a chance and throw away a loving relationship for a few clandestine moments with a man who's on the edge or will he choose the comfort of predictability that he knows.
This is an intensely emotional read that is more about heartfelt feelings than the steamy side of romance. The affection and attraction between Mario and Harold is seen more through words and deeds with only a few kisses along the way. There are numerous unexpected twists, and characters who are larger than life, to keep me fully immersed in this tale. Harold was a character to admire while Mario inspired pity and it's these differences, in a world where Harold was reviled while Mario was cheered, that kept me fully invested in their outcomes in a harsh world. There's surprising humor but also moments of sadness. It's ultimately about a life not lived and a life lived fully and I highly recommend it!
June 3, 2015
If I hadn’t been offered a copy of An Infatuation by the author, in exchange for an honest review, it would possibly have been a book I passed by. This could be because of the generic cover picture or that Joe Cosentino is not a familiar name to me – but after reading the book I am going to change the way I pre-judge books in future.
An Infatuation is so much more than a love story. Written in a flashback narrative and told in first person by the protagonist, Harold, the novel deals with issues of homophobia, bullying, abuse, religion as well as self-acceptance and friendship. Joe Cosentino is not afraid to be honest with us and we quickly go from an ‘Awwwwww’ moment to a chapter in which we are horrified and disgusted.
Ultimately it is Mario and Harold’s friendship which gives us hope, although we are unsure whether this is unrequited love, an experiment or something more. As we see Mario through Harold’s eyes he becomes a figure who initially we admire too, although we then sympathise with Harold’s heartbreak.
Though I was unsure of the few moments at which the characters directly addressed the reader, I thought An Infatuation was beautifully written and moving. Through Harold and Mario’s relationship Joe Cosentino expresses the sentiment that #loveislove and this is definitely a book I would recommend.
An Infatuation is so much more than a love story. Written in a flashback narrative and told in first person by the protagonist, Harold, the novel deals with issues of homophobia, bullying, abuse, religion as well as self-acceptance and friendship. Joe Cosentino is not afraid to be honest with us and we quickly go from an ‘Awwwwww’ moment to a chapter in which we are horrified and disgusted.
Ultimately it is Mario and Harold’s friendship which gives us hope, although we are unsure whether this is unrequited love, an experiment or something more. As we see Mario through Harold’s eyes he becomes a figure who initially we admire too, although we then sympathise with Harold’s heartbreak.
Though I was unsure of the few moments at which the characters directly addressed the reader, I thought An Infatuation was beautifully written and moving. Through Harold and Mario’s relationship Joe Cosentino expresses the sentiment that #loveislove and this is definitely a book I would recommend.
February 7, 2015
If we're lucky, we get to read a book that blazes a trail through us. Whether they make us laugh, cry, or even think a little differently, these books still leave a mark on us days, maybe even weeks after we've read it. For me, this was one of those books. It did everything I ask of a book: it took me away on a sweet journey about two high school boys, made me feel about their relationship, and gave me an ending I'll never forget. This book made me think. It affected me, and that's what writing and authorship is all about.
Mr. Cosentino, you should be very proud of what you created here. You gave me beautiful characters, real and flawed, who are memorable and who made mistakes. They could've made better choices, but they didn't because they were human. Authors strive to make characters who are as close to humanity as possible. They hope to make character-driven stories, not plot-driven stories. You've done exactly that.
Thank you for Harold. Thank you for Mario.
Thank you for writing this book.
And please, don't stop writing.
Mr. Cosentino, you should be very proud of what you created here. You gave me beautiful characters, real and flawed, who are memorable and who made mistakes. They could've made better choices, but they didn't because they were human. Authors strive to make characters who are as close to humanity as possible. They hope to make character-driven stories, not plot-driven stories. You've done exactly that.
Thank you for Harold. Thank you for Mario.
Thank you for writing this book.
And please, don't stop writing.
June 22, 2015
This story was heart wrenching when two high school boys, one gay, one straight, become best friends as Harold tutors Mario, the football captain. Harold falls in love with Mario, as Mario really denies his feelings for Harold. As time goes on Mario is scared about what he is feeling and he goes after one of the cheerleaders. This devastates Harold, so the time left during their senior year is spent avoiding each other. They go their separate ways to college and see each other 2 years later. Harold finds his true love, Stuart, and marries and Mario marries the cheerleader which ends up disastrous. At their ten year reunion, both Harold and Mario talk, and their feelings of the past are expressed. Mario wants to give them a second chance, but Harold realizes just what it was. Infatuation seems to be the case because the two will always have feelings for each other. This is a very touching, emotional story of love lost due to denial. Really enjoyed this story... Very realistic.
March 18, 2025
Heat /Meows Low-- Purrs 5
An Infatuation is a beautifully written, bittersweet, story of young love, first love and infatuation versus true love.
Harold was smitten with Mario from the first he met him. At first I felt Mario was just using Harold and I didn’t like him much but as the story goes on my feelings changed about Mario drastically. My heart went out to Harold, I loved Stuart and had mixed feelings about Mario.
For such a short story this was a can’t put down read. I laughed. I sighed and I cried.
This is my first book by this author and won't be my last.
If you are looking for a quick read to feel a couple hour this is what you are looking for. Be sure to bring some tissues.
Audio update
I really liked the narration. It added to both the humor and bittersweetness
An Infatuation is a beautifully written, bittersweet, story of young love, first love and infatuation versus true love.
Harold was smitten with Mario from the first he met him. At first I felt Mario was just using Harold and I didn’t like him much but as the story goes on my feelings changed about Mario drastically. My heart went out to Harold, I loved Stuart and had mixed feelings about Mario.
For such a short story this was a can’t put down read. I laughed. I sighed and I cried.
This is my first book by this author and won't be my last.
If you are looking for a quick read to feel a couple hour this is what you are looking for. Be sure to bring some tissues.
Audio update
I really liked the narration. It added to both the humor and bittersweetness
May 23, 2015
I have to confess I was a little hesitant about tackling this read. Not only is it marketed as a 'Bittersweet Dream' title, but many reviews talked about it being sad, so I was expecting broken relationships and steeling myself. To my surprise, it's far more complex than that. Yes, there are sad aspects and a bit of a tragic ending for one character, but it's more poignant than anything else. The author's witty dialogue and light touch balances it out. It's about young first love, and deeper 'mature' love, and how both affect us. I thoroughly enjoyed the characterization of long-established couple Harold and Stuart.
February 6, 2015
...I have no idea how to rate this. So I'm going with the middle and giving it a 3. But really, it could be a 3.5... I have no idea.
Review Now Available @ Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words
Review Now Available @ Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words
January 30, 2015
What an amazing book. People talk about love triangles but this was a love square (in a great way). This is well written and you can tell the author took his time and didn't rush it. The whole story I couldn't help but keeping the pages turning and turning. Great job! Was it a happy ending? You'll have to read to find out.
June 19, 2015
4.5*
Harold and Mario sound like some people that I went to high school with! I loved how Stuart and Harold interacted although Stuart was a little over the top with his schedules!
To me this is a perfect slice of life and your first love. And the catching up at the reunion was beautifully written. Great job and I really enjoyed reading it!
Harold and Mario sound like some people that I went to high school with! I loved how Stuart and Harold interacted although Stuart was a little over the top with his schedules!
To me this is a perfect slice of life and your first love. And the catching up at the reunion was beautifully written. Great job and I really enjoyed reading it!
Want to read
March 5, 2015Until tomorrow night at midnight (3/6/15) come end enter to win an e-book copy of this book! (psst- we don't have many entries!)
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October 9, 2017
This is a must read. Loved it!
February 25, 2015
B+
While this story is short it runs the gamut of emotions and spans two decades. Every time I thought I knew what this story was it would change and offer me another aspect. I laughed out loud and sighed, there were a few minutes where I wasn't sure what I wanted to happen. I even got a little teary eyed. I loved it.
Harold is sarcastic, sweet, self deprecating with a tongue-in-cheek narrative that was entertaining and engaging.
This was a story of a deep and lasting love that began in high school and existed as a fantasy and ideal for twenty years. Harold and Mario fell in love as the typical "nerd and jock" star crossed pairing. Add in Mario's religious homophobic parents and the social changes that hadn't occurred twenty years ago and you have a romance that was never able to get past the awareness of attraction and love.
Both men made choices both as young adults and throughout their lives that formed their relationship into one that could neither flourish nor die. It was sad and beautiful and familiar. I think we've all had some version of that person who we wanted so badly and could never have.
In many ways this book also has the love story of Harold and Stuart. I loved Stuart and his acceptance and love. Stuart is incredibly patient with Harold and his infatuation with Mario. Their life sounds so structured and kind of boring. But isn't that what making a life with someone mostly consists of? All the minutia that fill our days and slowly build a life. And if we are lucky we get to do so with someone who we share affection, respect and love with. They aren't dramatic, there aren't any great sweeps of emotion and destruction, no raging inferno and no despair. They are content and sweet and have made a good life together. They are kind and caring and they compliment one another as a couple.
A story that is much more complicated than its easy banter and sarcastic wit would at first lead you to believe. Full of love, choices, and the importance of friendship in all its many facets. In the end this is the story of two best friends.
*****Trigger Warning That Contains Spoilers: The bullying in this book is no joke. Harold is harassed and there is a definite possible trigger in some of the bullying that crosses the line into assault.*****
Reviewed by Nina
To see more of this review and others like it please visit us at Gay List Book Reviews at www.gaylistbookreviews.wordpress.com
While this story is short it runs the gamut of emotions and spans two decades. Every time I thought I knew what this story was it would change and offer me another aspect. I laughed out loud and sighed, there were a few minutes where I wasn't sure what I wanted to happen. I even got a little teary eyed. I loved it.
Harold is sarcastic, sweet, self deprecating with a tongue-in-cheek narrative that was entertaining and engaging.
This was a story of a deep and lasting love that began in high school and existed as a fantasy and ideal for twenty years. Harold and Mario fell in love as the typical "nerd and jock" star crossed pairing. Add in Mario's religious homophobic parents and the social changes that hadn't occurred twenty years ago and you have a romance that was never able to get past the awareness of attraction and love.
Both men made choices both as young adults and throughout their lives that formed their relationship into one that could neither flourish nor die. It was sad and beautiful and familiar. I think we've all had some version of that person who we wanted so badly and could never have.
In many ways this book also has the love story of Harold and Stuart. I loved Stuart and his acceptance and love. Stuart is incredibly patient with Harold and his infatuation with Mario. Their life sounds so structured and kind of boring. But isn't that what making a life with someone mostly consists of? All the minutia that fill our days and slowly build a life. And if we are lucky we get to do so with someone who we share affection, respect and love with. They aren't dramatic, there aren't any great sweeps of emotion and destruction, no raging inferno and no despair. They are content and sweet and have made a good life together. They are kind and caring and they compliment one another as a couple.
A story that is much more complicated than its easy banter and sarcastic wit would at first lead you to believe. Full of love, choices, and the importance of friendship in all its many facets. In the end this is the story of two best friends.
*****Trigger Warning That Contains Spoilers: The bullying in this book is no joke. Harold is harassed and there is a definite possible trigger in some of the bullying that crosses the line into assault.*****
Reviewed by Nina
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