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Coffee Boy
After graduation, Kieran expected to go straight into a career of flipping burgers—only to be offered the internship of his dreams at a political campaign. But the pressure of being an out trans man in the workplace quickly sucks the joy out of things, as does Seth, the humorless campaign strategist who watches his every move.
Soon, the only upside to the job is that Seth has a painful crush on their painfully straight boss, and Kieran has a front row seat to the drama. But when Seth proves to be as respectful and supportive as he is prickly, Kieran develops an awkward crush of his own—one which Seth is far too prim and proper to ever reciprocate.
Soon, the only upside to the job is that Seth has a painful crush on their painfully straight boss, and Kieran has a front row seat to the drama. But when Seth proves to be as respectful and supportive as he is prickly, Kieran develops an awkward crush of his own—one which Seth is far too prim and proper to ever reciprocate.
61 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2016
71 people are currently reading
6956 people want to read
About the author
Austin Chant
6 books1,105 followersS. A. Chant, a.k.a. Austin Chant, is a bitter millennial, a decent chef, and a queer, trans writer of romance and speculative fiction. He runs the Speculation Postcard Club, in which subscribers get a short story in the mail each month. He lives in Seattle with a cat who was recently described as a 'gooey cryptid.'
Icon by Veronica Agarwal (@anuanew)!
Icon by Veronica Agarwal (@anuanew)!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 745 reviews
November 5, 2017
When I read the synopsis of “Coffee Boy” I already knew that I
had
to read this book!
I mean a trans boy named Kieran who’s crushing on the campaign strategist of his internship? And this aforementioned campaign strategist is actually secretly crushing on their boss? *lol*
It had drama written all over it and if you know me, you also know that I can’t resist a decent drama! Well and now comes the funny part! There actually wasn’t all too much drama going on, but I still ended up loving this short story! Strange, right? XD
No, if you think about it, it’s not! ;-) The characters in this book were just so real and to say I could relate to the main character certainly wouldn’t even get close to the truth! I had the feeling that I really found myself in him! XD And since I’m already talking about Kieran I might as well head directly to the characters section!
”People who work on political campaigns have ridiculous Starbucks orders and yeah, being the intern means learning them all and balancing twelve cups of coffee on his way back up to the office.”
Mild spoilers and quotes ahead! Just to give you a heads-up! ;-)
Kieran:
”And for the brief but intense period where Kieran was panicking over the revelation that he was gay and trans – like, how doomed to failure could he possibly be? – Jillian was his rock.”
He’s just awesome! It’s been quite a while I last had the pleasure to read about such an honest and forthright person and I loved every second of it! Kieran’s humour was amazing and his honesty sometimes almost bordered on rudeness! He never minced his words and this was so refreshing! Well and even when he tried to be more sensitive, he still ended up saying the truth, which got him into rather awkward situations and amused me to no end! *lol*
”I’m shrill, you know. It tricks their brains. I can tell them to call me he, but I can’t change what’s going on in their heads when I talk to them.”
”Wait, so – I was assigned female at birth, and that’s okay to talk about, but your crush on our boss isn’t appropriate?”
Seth:
”I’m old,” Seth mumbles. “I’m an old man who can’t hold down a relationship.”
I loved him for being so sympathetic and I absolutely adored him for insisting on Kieran’s pronouns!!! I know Kieran got awkward whenever he reminded their co-workers to address him correctly but just like Seth I think that it’s very important to get them right!!! I know Seth sometimes came across as rather grumpy and reserved, but deep down within him he was a gentle soul! ;-) He respected Kieran and for that I respected him too! XD
”How long’ve you liked me?” Kieran asks.
Seth’s throat works nervously. “Oh, I don’t know.”
“Totally unromantic. Try again.”
”Honestly, he’s never met a guy more in need of a boyfriend.
Kieran hopes he’s up to the task.”
Sensitive issues:
Their age difference: I don’t think that their age difference was important, at least for me it wasn’t. I mean 12 years isn’t all that much and considering my husband and I are 9 years apart it really was no shocker.
Seth’s crush on Marcus: Yes, Seth the campaign strategist has a crush on his boss who has a child and a fiancée. For me this was no touchy subject though. After all you can’t choose the person you fall for, you just do it! Love is illogical so yeah, I don’t blame him for it. Besides nothing ever happened between those two, he just watched him from a distance.
The sex scene at the end: I read a lot of Santino Hassell over the summer so it didn’t shock me. Some people might feel different though. ;-) I think it was a very good scene and I loved how they interacted with each other. There was so much respect and understanding between those two, it was actually pretty amazing to read. =)
Overall Conclusion:
I enjoyed the story and I’m glad I read it! It was interesting to see Kieran’s point of view and since I’ve never read a book about a trans person before it definitely broadened my horizon! “Coffee boy” was funny, relatable and way too short!! =)) I really would have loved to read more about Seth and Kieran!
The world definitely is in dire need of more stories like that and I can easily recommend it! ;-) A short and refreshing read that most certainly will entertain you! XD
I mean a trans boy named Kieran who’s crushing on the campaign strategist of his internship? And this aforementioned campaign strategist is actually secretly crushing on their boss? *lol*
It had drama written all over it and if you know me, you also know that I can’t resist a decent drama! Well and now comes the funny part! There actually wasn’t all too much drama going on, but I still ended up loving this short story! Strange, right? XD
No, if you think about it, it’s not! ;-) The characters in this book were just so real and to say I could relate to the main character certainly wouldn’t even get close to the truth! I had the feeling that I really found myself in him! XD And since I’m already talking about Kieran I might as well head directly to the characters section!
”People who work on political campaigns have ridiculous Starbucks orders and yeah, being the intern means learning them all and balancing twelve cups of coffee on his way back up to the office.”
Mild spoilers and quotes ahead! Just to give you a heads-up! ;-)
Kieran:
”And for the brief but intense period where Kieran was panicking over the revelation that he was gay and trans – like, how doomed to failure could he possibly be? – Jillian was his rock.”
He’s just awesome! It’s been quite a while I last had the pleasure to read about such an honest and forthright person and I loved every second of it! Kieran’s humour was amazing and his honesty sometimes almost bordered on rudeness! He never minced his words and this was so refreshing! Well and even when he tried to be more sensitive, he still ended up saying the truth, which got him into rather awkward situations and amused me to no end! *lol*
”I’m shrill, you know. It tricks their brains. I can tell them to call me he, but I can’t change what’s going on in their heads when I talk to them.”
”Wait, so – I was assigned female at birth, and that’s okay to talk about, but your crush on our boss isn’t appropriate?”
Seth:
”I’m old,” Seth mumbles. “I’m an old man who can’t hold down a relationship.”
I loved him for being so sympathetic and I absolutely adored him for insisting on Kieran’s pronouns!!! I know Kieran got awkward whenever he reminded their co-workers to address him correctly but just like Seth I think that it’s very important to get them right!!! I know Seth sometimes came across as rather grumpy and reserved, but deep down within him he was a gentle soul! ;-) He respected Kieran and for that I respected him too! XD
”How long’ve you liked me?” Kieran asks.
Seth’s throat works nervously. “Oh, I don’t know.”
“Totally unromantic. Try again.”
”Honestly, he’s never met a guy more in need of a boyfriend.
Kieran hopes he’s up to the task.”
Sensitive issues:
Their age difference: I don’t think that their age difference was important, at least for me it wasn’t. I mean 12 years isn’t all that much and considering my husband and I are 9 years apart it really was no shocker.
Seth’s crush on Marcus: Yes, Seth the campaign strategist has a crush on his boss who has a child and a fiancée. For me this was no touchy subject though. After all you can’t choose the person you fall for, you just do it! Love is illogical so yeah, I don’t blame him for it. Besides nothing ever happened between those two, he just watched him from a distance.
The sex scene at the end: I read a lot of Santino Hassell over the summer so it didn’t shock me. Some people might feel different though. ;-) I think it was a very good scene and I loved how they interacted with each other. There was so much respect and understanding between those two, it was actually pretty amazing to read. =)
Overall Conclusion:
I enjoyed the story and I’m glad I read it! It was interesting to see Kieran’s point of view and since I’ve never read a book about a trans person before it definitely broadened my horizon! “Coffee boy” was funny, relatable and way too short!! =)) I really would have loved to read more about Seth and Kieran!
The world definitely is in dire need of more stories like that and I can easily recommend it! ;-) A short and refreshing read that most certainly will entertain you! XD
Read
November 1, 2016I glommed this in a sitting when I was supposed to be working. What a hot bath and fluffy towel of a book. Seth is a prickly, lonely bi guy, Kieran is younger, trans, a bit adrift, and they are just so lovely and good for each other and nnngh this is why I read romance because this is just the way the world ought to work out for people. Absolutely charming.
August 1, 2018
Coffee Boy follows the synopsis pretty closely; there aren't any surprises going into it, which I loved. Sometimes all I need to cheer me up is a cute romance novella with a beautiful cover.
After graduation, Kieran expected to go straight into a career of flipping burgers—only to be offered the internship of his dreams at a political campaign. But the pressure of being an out trans man in the workplace quickly sucks the joy out of things, as does Seth, the humorless campaign strategist who watches his every move.
Soon, the only upside to the job is that Seth has a painful crush on their painfully straight boss, and Kieran has a front row seat to the drama. But when Seth proves to be as respectful and supportive as he is prickly, Kieran develops an awkward crush of his own—one which Seth is far too prim and proper to ever reciprocate.
I knew going into this that I was going to get a great romance, but what I wasn't expecting was the healthy amount of humor thrown in. I love the fact that the author took the time to include some banter in here. I always appreciate it when a new read manages to make me laugh out loud multiple times.
Just to give you a couple of examples:
“Crazy thing, though. I’m pretty sure Mister Senior Campaign Strategist has a thing for Marcus.”
“Nice,” Jillian says. “See, I’m not the only one!”
Kieran pokes the side of her ramen bowl with his toe—not enough to make it slosh, just enough to make her shriek and slap his foot away. “Is that not weird to you?”
“Why? Are you saying mean, bitter people can’t be queer?” Jillian pats his foot. “Look in the mirror.”
Also, Kieran shading his supervisor:
“Wait, so—I was assigned female at birth, and that’s okay to talk about, but your crush on our boss isn’t appropriate?”
But real talk the fact that Seth was pining for his -married with children- boss kind of made me dislike him a bit... Reading about someone thinking about a married person like that is just something that doesn't sit well with me personally. And then taking the fact that he's a decade (and something) older than Kieran... I don’t usually enjoy reading about significant age-gaps in romances. And I still don’t. So I had to make myself forget that the romantic interest is significantly older than our main character...
Those were the only negative aspects for me, but still, don't get me wrong, Seth is an amazing romantic partner for Kieran. He's kind, supportive, respectful and genuinely takes the time to get to know him. It's really only because of my personal issues on the married thing and age-gaps that lowered my attachment a bit. Other than that, this novella is fucking great for its:
• LGBTQIA+ representation.
• #Ownvoices
• Witty banter scattered throughout.
• This next one is kind of random, but bear with me: When Kieran and Seth go out and order fries, I ended up googling 34 best french fries recipes and ideas (it was midnight, so don't judge me). And now thanks to Coffee Boy I know what I'm having for lunch.
• Also kind of unrelated, but this book managed to perfectly describe this one minor character in my favorite show:
“The customer is probably like nineteen, or a precocious high school senior, but he clearly thinks he’s hot shit. To his credit, he’s cute, in a wannabe-frat-boy way. He’s got long eyelashes and a cocky smile, and for a second Kieran genuinely grins back at him.”
That paragraph literally put down in words what I think of Christoffer Schistad from Skam.
• Ok. Now back to the actual storyline... Coffee Boy is one of the most important LGBTQIA+ romances I've read in awhile. And I'll appreciate it eternally for taking the time to discuss so many important topics, such as the usage of the word ‘queer’ among many other:
“I’m afraid I don’t have your ability to be so open. I don’t like to discuss certain personal matters at work.”
Kieran could gracefully accept his apology. Or he could open his fucking mouth, and guess which one he does. “Neither do I,” he says, and even to his own ears he sounds sullen. “For some reason it always seems to come up, though.”
Seth blinks at him for a moment before it dawns on him. “Ah.”
“Yeah, sorry. I do get it. You’d rather not have to be queer at work.”
Seth winces. “I’m not overly fond of the word ‘queer’, either.”
“Oh.”
“It’s not that I don’t identify with the general idea, it’s more that I can’t help thinking of it as…” Seth’s face closes a little. “As the kind of thing boys call each other when they can’t think of anything worse.”
We need more books like this!!!
Overall, I'm more than glad I picked this one up and stayed up late to finish it. I definitely recommend Coffee Boy if you're looking for a quick but lasting read.
*Note: I'm an Amazon Affiliate. If you're interested in buying Coffee Boy, just click on the image below to go through my link. I'll make a small commission!*
Support creators you love. Buy a Coffee for nat (bookspoils) with http://Ko-fi.com/bookspoils
After graduation, Kieran expected to go straight into a career of flipping burgers—only to be offered the internship of his dreams at a political campaign. But the pressure of being an out trans man in the workplace quickly sucks the joy out of things, as does Seth, the humorless campaign strategist who watches his every move.
Soon, the only upside to the job is that Seth has a painful crush on their painfully straight boss, and Kieran has a front row seat to the drama. But when Seth proves to be as respectful and supportive as he is prickly, Kieran develops an awkward crush of his own—one which Seth is far too prim and proper to ever reciprocate.
I knew going into this that I was going to get a great romance, but what I wasn't expecting was the healthy amount of humor thrown in. I love the fact that the author took the time to include some banter in here. I always appreciate it when a new read manages to make me laugh out loud multiple times.
Just to give you a couple of examples:
“Crazy thing, though. I’m pretty sure Mister Senior Campaign Strategist has a thing for Marcus.”
“Nice,” Jillian says. “See, I’m not the only one!”
Kieran pokes the side of her ramen bowl with his toe—not enough to make it slosh, just enough to make her shriek and slap his foot away. “Is that not weird to you?”
“Why? Are you saying mean, bitter people can’t be queer?” Jillian pats his foot. “Look in the mirror.”
Also, Kieran shading his supervisor:
“Wait, so—I was assigned female at birth, and that’s okay to talk about, but your crush on our boss isn’t appropriate?”
But real talk the fact that Seth was pining for his -married with children- boss kind of made me dislike him a bit... Reading about someone thinking about a married person like that is just something that doesn't sit well with me personally. And then taking the fact that he's a decade (and something) older than Kieran... I don’t usually enjoy reading about significant age-gaps in romances. And I still don’t. So I had to make myself forget that the romantic interest is significantly older than our main character...
Those were the only negative aspects for me, but still, don't get me wrong, Seth is an amazing romantic partner for Kieran. He's kind, supportive, respectful and genuinely takes the time to get to know him. It's really only because of my personal issues on the married thing and age-gaps that lowered my attachment a bit. Other than that, this novella is fucking great for its:
• LGBTQIA+ representation.
• #Ownvoices
• Witty banter scattered throughout.
• This next one is kind of random, but bear with me: When Kieran and Seth go out and order fries, I ended up googling 34 best french fries recipes and ideas (it was midnight, so don't judge me). And now thanks to Coffee Boy I know what I'm having for lunch.
• Also kind of unrelated, but this book managed to perfectly describe this one minor character in my favorite show:
“The customer is probably like nineteen, or a precocious high school senior, but he clearly thinks he’s hot shit. To his credit, he’s cute, in a wannabe-frat-boy way. He’s got long eyelashes and a cocky smile, and for a second Kieran genuinely grins back at him.”
That paragraph literally put down in words what I think of Christoffer Schistad from Skam.
• Ok. Now back to the actual storyline... Coffee Boy is one of the most important LGBTQIA+ romances I've read in awhile. And I'll appreciate it eternally for taking the time to discuss so many important topics, such as the usage of the word ‘queer’ among many other:
“I’m afraid I don’t have your ability to be so open. I don’t like to discuss certain personal matters at work.”
Kieran could gracefully accept his apology. Or he could open his fucking mouth, and guess which one he does. “Neither do I,” he says, and even to his own ears he sounds sullen. “For some reason it always seems to come up, though.”
Seth blinks at him for a moment before it dawns on him. “Ah.”
“Yeah, sorry. I do get it. You’d rather not have to be queer at work.”
Seth winces. “I’m not overly fond of the word ‘queer’, either.”
“Oh.”
“It’s not that I don’t identify with the general idea, it’s more that I can’t help thinking of it as…” Seth’s face closes a little. “As the kind of thing boys call each other when they can’t think of anything worse.”
We need more books like this!!!
Overall, I'm more than glad I picked this one up and stayed up late to finish it. I definitely recommend Coffee Boy if you're looking for a quick but lasting read.
*Note: I'm an Amazon Affiliate. If you're interested in buying Coffee Boy, just click on the image below to go through my link. I'll make a small commission!*
Support creators you love. Buy a Coffee for nat (bookspoils) with http://Ko-fi.com/bookspoils
March 15, 2019
Content Warnings:
Content Warnings for review: discussion of trans antagonism, misgendering and sex
I recently finished my third read of this book, and it is absolutely my go-to reread when I need a dependable trans romance comfort reread that I know I will love.
This read, I was particularly struck by not just the workplace aspect, which I discussed in my original review (which I include below), but the way Kieran is grappling with imagining a future. I feel like this aspect of trans experience is something that I rarely see even discussed, much less depicted in books. One of the reasons I often recommend books like S. Bear Bergman’s Blood, Marriage, Wine, & Glitter to young trans readers is that it can be so difficult to imagine a future, where you might have a large chosen and blood family, and raise children. Kieran struggles to imagine life beyond his current awful job that pays the bills, to imagine that this internship might be a step toward a future career. That struggle, which is rooted in his transness and experience of trans antagonism, felt so resonant for me as a trans reader. It is hard to dream a future career when all that feels real is the terrible misgendering alienating experience on the job every day. I really liked that Kieran got to be in those feelings, and share them, and have his love interest hold those feelings with him.
Original review:
So, I would give this 4.5 stars, I'm rounding up.
I already know I am going to reread this again. It captures a trans experience that I know deeply, and it is the first book I've read that does so. It stirred up all these feels, because of that. This book really holds the reality of what it's like to be a non-passing trans guy at the workplace. A reality I know well. (I am non-binary, but was read as a non-passing trans guy on the job for the last 13 years. So, while my situation is not identical to Kierans, it has substantial overlap.) The inexorable experience of being misgendered all day, every day, including by people that are well-meaning and kind in other ways, grappling with imagining a future of work being like this, being glad that other people correct folks about pronouns and also just wanting both your transness and the way it's a problem for other people not put you at the center all the time. This aspect of the story feels so critically important and so deeply needed in representation that I was pretty thoroughly distracted by it.
But yes, there is a romance at the center of this book, and it has a sweetness to it that I really enjoyed. The dislike turning to crush is lovely as it unfolds, the way they seek intimacy with each other and step back is a dance that I enjoyed quite a bit. The dancing scene is perfect. The sex is hot and real.
I liked how careful Seth was to establish actual consent, that I didn't doubt that he had it and cared about that. I usually avoid boss/employee romances because I'm worried this will be mishandled. I felt ok with it, personally.
What I would want, if anything, is more story. A companion novella, showing them at the next stage of their relationship. Or for this to be a full length novel. I was just really getting on board with them as a couple when the book ended. It may be that I am especially hungry for more because I so identified with Kieran and so need more queer trans stories. Those things are absolutely true. I am hoping there might be a sequel, that this could be a trilogy of novellas, or at least a duology. I would love that.
(Also posted on my blog)
Content Warnings for review: discussion of trans antagonism, misgendering and sex
I recently finished my third read of this book, and it is absolutely my go-to reread when I need a dependable trans romance comfort reread that I know I will love.
This read, I was particularly struck by not just the workplace aspect, which I discussed in my original review (which I include below), but the way Kieran is grappling with imagining a future. I feel like this aspect of trans experience is something that I rarely see even discussed, much less depicted in books. One of the reasons I often recommend books like S. Bear Bergman’s Blood, Marriage, Wine, & Glitter to young trans readers is that it can be so difficult to imagine a future, where you might have a large chosen and blood family, and raise children. Kieran struggles to imagine life beyond his current awful job that pays the bills, to imagine that this internship might be a step toward a future career. That struggle, which is rooted in his transness and experience of trans antagonism, felt so resonant for me as a trans reader. It is hard to dream a future career when all that feels real is the terrible misgendering alienating experience on the job every day. I really liked that Kieran got to be in those feelings, and share them, and have his love interest hold those feelings with him.
Original review:
So, I would give this 4.5 stars, I'm rounding up.
I already know I am going to reread this again. It captures a trans experience that I know deeply, and it is the first book I've read that does so. It stirred up all these feels, because of that. This book really holds the reality of what it's like to be a non-passing trans guy at the workplace. A reality I know well. (I am non-binary, but was read as a non-passing trans guy on the job for the last 13 years. So, while my situation is not identical to Kierans, it has substantial overlap.) The inexorable experience of being misgendered all day, every day, including by people that are well-meaning and kind in other ways, grappling with imagining a future of work being like this, being glad that other people correct folks about pronouns and also just wanting both your transness and the way it's a problem for other people not put you at the center all the time. This aspect of the story feels so critically important and so deeply needed in representation that I was pretty thoroughly distracted by it.
But yes, there is a romance at the center of this book, and it has a sweetness to it that I really enjoyed. The dislike turning to crush is lovely as it unfolds, the way they seek intimacy with each other and step back is a dance that I enjoyed quite a bit. The dancing scene is perfect. The sex is hot and real.
I liked how careful Seth was to establish actual consent, that I didn't doubt that he had it and cared about that. I usually avoid boss/employee romances because I'm worried this will be mishandled. I felt ok with it, personally.
What I would want, if anything, is more story. A companion novella, showing them at the next stage of their relationship. Or for this to be a full length novel. I was just really getting on board with them as a couple when the book ended. It may be that I am especially hungry for more because I so identified with Kieran and so need more queer trans stories. Those things are absolutely true. I am hoping there might be a sequel, that this could be a trilogy of novellas, or at least a duology. I would love that.
(Also posted on my blog)
August 4, 2022
3.5 Stars
A representative novella showcasing prickly Kieran who has plenty of reasons to have a huge chip on his shoulder. He’s volunteering on a political campaign and can’t help but be attracted to stern, by the book campaign manager Sean. As they slowly get to know each other both see the other in a new light.
Touching on struggles for persons both trans and bi, this was a sweet but acerbic romance with a satisfying payoff.
A representative novella showcasing prickly Kieran who has plenty of reasons to have a huge chip on his shoulder. He’s volunteering on a political campaign and can’t help but be attracted to stern, by the book campaign manager Sean. As they slowly get to know each other both see the other in a new light.
Touching on struggles for persons both trans and bi, this was a sweet but acerbic romance with a satisfying payoff.
November 3, 2016
This story is perfect. It contained everything I love. Great characters and dialogue, pining and unashamedly sweet romance without being over the top. So good. A definite favourite that I will re-read. Highly recommended!
November 12, 2017
3.5 stars
Despite being short, this was a cute story. I loved the adorable Kieran and prim and proper Seth. There wasn’t much background set up, but whatever we got, it was enough to give you a good enough story to give you an entertaining while. I came to know about a few new things, too. Good one, overall.
Despite being short, this was a cute story. I loved the adorable Kieran and prim and proper Seth. There wasn’t much background set up, but whatever we got, it was enough to give you a good enough story to give you an entertaining while. I came to know about a few new things, too. Good one, overall.
July 19, 2017
Wow, this was so so good. It was so... heartwarming? gorgeous? cute? Maybe all of the above.
- Kieran was such a fantastic protagonist with such a fresh narrative voice. I loved his unapologetic anger, his sarcasm (look, I don't like sarcastic characters but Kieran is one done right), and how he was confident in some places but vulnerable in others.
- The book touches on trans issues, as Kieran is a trans man, which balances well with the overarching story and Kieran's character development.
- The romance was such a pleasant surprise - I read this book without knowing anything about it, and I thought it was fantastic. The love interest was complex, and I loved his character.
- It was a great short read, and I thought it was the perfect length.
Full review to come.
- Kieran was such a fantastic protagonist with such a fresh narrative voice. I loved his unapologetic anger, his sarcasm (look, I don't like sarcastic characters but Kieran is one done right), and how he was confident in some places but vulnerable in others.
- The book touches on trans issues, as Kieran is a trans man, which balances well with the overarching story and Kieran's character development.
- The romance was such a pleasant surprise - I read this book without knowing anything about it, and I thought it was fantastic. The love interest was complex, and I loved his character.
- It was a great short read, and I thought it was the perfect length.
Full review to come.
September 29, 2017
4.25 stars
Loved the dynamic between these two. Also really enjoyed seeing things from Kieran's perspective.
Loved the dynamic between these two. Also really enjoyed seeing things from Kieran's perspective.
December 18, 2016
Gallic cheesy elf, you are awesome! Thank you sooo much!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~ 4.5 stars ~
The only negative thing I have to say about this book: it was too short! I wanted more and more and more!
I liked both MCs from the beginning!
Kieran comes across as angry, frustrated and snarky and he has every right to be. Since this story is told from Kieran's POV we get a glimpse into the life of a trans guy and his fight for acceptance, his hurt for being misgendered as a girl. There's much to learn about the daily struggles trans people face without appearing to bee too educational. Obviously, I don't have any personal experience here but I could understand and relate to all of Kieran's feeling and reactions.
Seth appears to be cold and standoffish but from day one he's the only one who stands up for Keiran, corrects people when they use the wrong pronouns, and tries to find ways to raise more awareness about transgender people. Despite all his scowling and sneering, he's the one who wants Keiran to be comfortable and happy at work. I just thought him to be the sweetest guy ever!
After a while, they form some sort of connection and while learning more about each other on a personal level, they realize there is more than just friendship between them. I really loved how understanding, careful, and considerate Seth was. It's obvious that he cares and this being a boss/employee relationship with an age gap of 12 years, he's making sure that Keiran doesn't feel pressured in any way and everything that happens is consensual.
This is a sweet, cute, well-written short story that left me with a bunch of happy feelings. But dear author, please give me more!! I need to know how their story continues!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~ 4.5 stars ~
The only negative thing I have to say about this book: it was too short! I wanted more and more and more!
I liked both MCs from the beginning!
Kieran comes across as angry, frustrated and snarky and he has every right to be. Since this story is told from Kieran's POV we get a glimpse into the life of a trans guy and his fight for acceptance, his hurt for being misgendered as a girl. There's much to learn about the daily struggles trans people face without appearing to bee too educational. Obviously, I don't have any personal experience here but I could understand and relate to all of Kieran's feeling and reactions.
Seth appears to be cold and standoffish but from day one he's the only one who stands up for Keiran, corrects people when they use the wrong pronouns, and tries to find ways to raise more awareness about transgender people. Despite all his scowling and sneering, he's the one who wants Keiran to be comfortable and happy at work. I just thought him to be the sweetest guy ever!
After a while, they form some sort of connection and while learning more about each other on a personal level, they realize there is more than just friendship between them. I really loved how understanding, careful, and considerate Seth was. It's obvious that he cares and this being a boss/employee relationship with an age gap of 12 years, he's making sure that Keiran doesn't feel pressured in any way and everything that happens is consensual.
This is a sweet, cute, well-written short story that left me with a bunch of happy feelings. But dear author, please give me more!! I need to know how their story continues!
November 12, 2016
Superbly written, sweet, quick read!
November 13, 2017
***3.5 Stars***
This was a quick and charming read.
The evolution of Kieran and Seth's relationship felt natural. Seeing how their feelings for each other changed over the course of the book is what I live for as a reader.
Kieran's bluntness gave Seth freedom to voice insecurities that he's kept to himself for years. If Kieran had a question, he asked it...he didn't skirt around issues with Seth. And that was exactly what Seth needed. He needed to be pulled out of the shell that he created for himself.
And on the flip side, Seth gave Kieran another perspective to look at about certain issues. Their conversation about the word "queer" and how each man feels about it was so honest, heartfelt, and thought provoking.
One of my favorite things about Austin Chant's writing was his honest delivery. He had a way of explaining things about trans issues or showcasing respect for consent without coming off as preachy. These things were dealt with in an effortless way...the simplicity of "if you know better, you do better."
My one disappointment is that I wish the book were longer. Yes, I suppose leaving the reader wanting more is an excellent problem to have...but the door closes just as Seth and Kieran are embarking on their relationship. For over half the book, Seth is pining for Marcus so I would have liked a little bit more time with Kieran and Seth as a couple. I picked this book up as a romance, and though it ended up being so much more, I missed having the romance front and center.
Nonetheless, this book was a great introduction to Austin Chant's writing and I look forward to reading more of his books.
November 3, 2016
3.75 stars rounded up
I must say that at first, Kieran was way too prickly for me. It took a little time to get myself comfortable with his attitude, especially when he confronts Seth. I imagine I will probably take a step back if I ever encounter someone like Kieran in real life. Which was why the relationship progress from supervisor/intern to colleagues to something more between Seth and Kieran felt believable because they were not on good terms in the beginning.
Kieran is grumpy, Seth is uptight. Kieran thinks Seth is hot (and Kieran laments over the fact that he likes Seth) while Seth is painfully hiding his crush over their boss. Plus there is that 12 years-old age-gap between them. But they work things through and I loved how Seth is trying to make the work-space a safe space for Kieran.
The trans part is wonderfully written. Yes, it is a significant element to the romance. Considering that the novella is written solely from Kieran's perspective, I felt like I got more information about how trans feels and the challenge they are facing. At the same time, never for once I felt like I was being preached by the author. It never became overwhelming. It was just facts of this story.
The ending was the reason of my placing Coffee Boy to my 4* category. It was sweet and put a smile to my face :). This is one occasion when my impulsive purchase is a GREAT purchase ^^
I must say that at first, Kieran was way too prickly for me. It took a little time to get myself comfortable with his attitude, especially when he confronts Seth. I imagine I will probably take a step back if I ever encounter someone like Kieran in real life. Which was why the relationship progress from supervisor/intern to colleagues to something more between Seth and Kieran felt believable because they were not on good terms in the beginning.
Kieran is grumpy, Seth is uptight. Kieran thinks Seth is hot (and Kieran laments over the fact that he likes Seth) while Seth is painfully hiding his crush over their boss. Plus there is that 12 years-old age-gap between them. But they work things through and I loved how Seth is trying to make the work-space a safe space for Kieran.
The trans part is wonderfully written. Yes, it is a significant element to the romance. Considering that the novella is written solely from Kieran's perspective, I felt like I got more information about how trans feels and the challenge they are facing. At the same time, never for once I felt like I was being preached by the author. It never became overwhelming. It was just facts of this story.
The ending was the reason of my placing Coffee Boy to my 4* category. It was sweet and put a smile to my face :). This is one occasion when my impulsive purchase is a GREAT purchase ^^
October 31, 2016
Unpaid internships to become the office coffee boy are not exactly the holy grail. Even if it does mean that Kieran will get an opportunity to work with his first political campaign. It’s not that he isn’t grateful for the “job” being offered to him by his former professor, but having to spend his days around people who will probably constantly misgender him is not his idea of fun. And he gets enough of that during his real job at a fast-food joint. If he backs out now, though, his best friend will never let him hear the end of it. When he meets Seth, the man running the local branch of the campaign, he is not at all reassured. If ever their was a man in dire need of a quick removal of a long stick from certain hole, it is Seth. He is also ridiculously hot, of course, once you get past the whole cool exterior. Not that Kieran is looking.
I really loved this book. Like it left me all happy-sighing all over the place when I finished it. The trans part was incredibly well written, and the author did a good job of making it part of the story without making it all of the story. It is very much a love story…that just happens to have a trans character. And, yeah, that is gonna mean that certain aspects of what life is like for trans people is gonna come up, but I don’t think it ever came off as if the author felt the reader needed to be Educated.
There was also something about Kieran’s whole grumpy trans guy that really spoke to the grumpy trans guy in me.
But honestly, trans stuff aside, this is a damn good story. I really wish the author had decided to keep it going for a bit more. I wanna know more about these characters and the campaign. Does the lady running win? What happens with the people in the campaign office? How do Seth and Kieran handle dating and working together? I NEED TO KNOW! I love being this invested in characters (some of which I’ve never even met in the story), and it was a damn shame it had to end where it did.
I know that some of the shorter books are not automatic buys for some people because they don’t know if they are getting their money’s worth, but please take my recommendation down to your nearest ebook seller and pick this up. It may be only 90 pages long but it is a fantastic story and I don’t think you will regret it. I loved this book and will be adding the author to my must-stalk list.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
I really loved this book. Like it left me all happy-sighing all over the place when I finished it. The trans part was incredibly well written, and the author did a good job of making it part of the story without making it all of the story. It is very much a love story…that just happens to have a trans character. And, yeah, that is gonna mean that certain aspects of what life is like for trans people is gonna come up, but I don’t think it ever came off as if the author felt the reader needed to be Educated.
There was also something about Kieran’s whole grumpy trans guy that really spoke to the grumpy trans guy in me.
But honestly, trans stuff aside, this is a damn good story. I really wish the author had decided to keep it going for a bit more. I wanna know more about these characters and the campaign. Does the lady running win? What happens with the people in the campaign office? How do Seth and Kieran handle dating and working together? I NEED TO KNOW! I love being this invested in characters (some of which I’ve never even met in the story), and it was a damn shame it had to end where it did.
I know that some of the shorter books are not automatic buys for some people because they don’t know if they are getting their money’s worth, but please take my recommendation down to your nearest ebook seller and pick this up. It may be only 90 pages long but it is a fantastic story and I don’t think you will regret it. I loved this book and will be adding the author to my must-stalk list.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
February 22, 2020
Coffee Boy is a new adult romance novella following Kieran, a young trans intern who gets a crush on his supervisor Seth, who has himself a crush on their boss.
I don't have a lot to say about this one, because it's very short, but I can say that the romance was adorable (novellas are the best length for romance, it's the truth), and that it's so refreshing to read a contemporary romance with trans representation in which there is no outing anywhere in the book. There is some misgendering, because the main character doesn't always pass, and there are some scenes about well-meaning but condescending and sometimes outright clueless "allies" that were... very awkward and very real, at the same time - but, overall, this is a happy story.
Anyway, if "younger person who can't keep his mouth shut" and "older, distinguished grump who is actually secretly a mess" is your kind of thing, I really recommend it! And it's for sure a short, cute romantic read perfect for Pride month.
I don't have a lot to say about this one, because it's very short, but I can say that the romance was adorable (novellas are the best length for romance, it's the truth), and that it's so refreshing to read a contemporary romance with trans representation in which there is no outing anywhere in the book. There is some misgendering, because the main character doesn't always pass, and there are some scenes about well-meaning but condescending and sometimes outright clueless "allies" that were... very awkward and very real, at the same time - but, overall, this is a happy story.
Anyway, if "younger person who can't keep his mouth shut" and "older, distinguished grump who is actually secretly a mess" is your kind of thing, I really recommend it! And it's for sure a short, cute romantic read perfect for Pride month.
December 10, 2016
I feel like I've been reading a trans rights activist's Tumblr blog, not a novel. Well, technically there was some plot, and other characters (whole three of them), some of whose even ended up having a personality. But nearly everything somehow revolved around trans issues. And, er, thanks, but in that case I'd rather read nonfiction or some website articles. Mind you, I'm not saying that books about trans issues are bad, just if this book also happens to be a novel, I want it to be not so one-dimensional.
It did eventually got better and more novel-like, but just when something else, besides not so subtle educating of a reader, finally starts happening, the book promptly ends.
I might be extra prickly here because this novella also happens to have two of my least favorite things in books: third person present tense and an incredibly self-absorbed main character.
I liked that the book was frank about some things, like sex, and it did end on a good note. If you're passionate about everything trans, this might be the book for you.
It did eventually got better and more novel-like, but just when something else, besides not so subtle educating of a reader, finally starts happening, the book promptly ends.
I might be extra prickly here because this novella also happens to have two of my least favorite things in books: third person present tense and an incredibly self-absorbed main character.
I liked that the book was frank about some things, like sex, and it did end on a good note. If you're passionate about everything trans, this might be the book for you.
October 21, 2018
This had good characterization and a strong narrative voice. I think it would have been better with a chapter or two more, after . It felt a little drab and low on action, especially compared to the technicolor adventure dreamscape of "Peter Darling". Part of that's personal taste -- I would always take Neverland over the real world -- but I think objectively PD had better pacing and more tension.
Still, this was good and I'm now inclined to pick up whatever Chance writes regardless of whether it sounds like my bag or not.
Still, this was good and I'm now inclined to pick up whatever Chance writes regardless of whether it sounds like my bag or not.
February 17, 2017
No ha estado mal, Kieran me ha encantado.
December 16, 2018
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
So damn cute.
So damn cute.
March 24, 2023
How is this my first Austin Chant book!? I can't believe that I've waited this one to check out their work. This was such a delightful book and I can't wait to read more. CW: misgendering, graphic sex, transphobia
Coffee Boy follows main character Kieran as he begins a job as an intern for a political campaign. When he arrives and meets Seth, Kieran finds him cold and stand offish; however, Kieran slowly begins to realize that Seth has a crush on Marcus (Kieran's professor from college). What starts as an awkward workplace companionship slowly develops into blossoming feelings from Kieran.
What Worked: The writing in this one was FANTASTIC. At only twenty or so pages in I found myself laughing out loud. Kieran has a delightful personality. His dry sense of humor and willingness to call Seth out for his behaviors was endearing and entertaining. Chant has a way with writing that draws the reader in and keeps them invested in the characters and plot. While this has a political campaign as the backdrop, there isn't a lot of conversation about politics. Chant uses the space to focus on the character development especially Kieran's experience as a trans man. This experience is a balance of ups and downs and while Chant does discuss the negative experience Kieran has at the hands of fellow employees, it is balanced with a supportive best friend and Seth. I enjoyed Kieran so much as a character so after everything he's been through it was nice to see him get an HEA. Chant also used the narrative to discuss people's perceptions of bisexuality as well as the spectrum that exists in the LGBTQIA+ community especially when it comes to terminology utilized as identification. That scene at the end was EVERYTHING. Good and spicy! I loved it! I wanted to learn more about Kieran and Seth after the story ended, but I think that Chant gave us a enough to conclude it on a fun and positive note.
Overall, this was a great read. I'm definitely looking forward to checking out more from Austin Chant in the future.
Coffee Boy follows main character Kieran as he begins a job as an intern for a political campaign. When he arrives and meets Seth, Kieran finds him cold and stand offish; however, Kieran slowly begins to realize that Seth has a crush on Marcus (Kieran's professor from college). What starts as an awkward workplace companionship slowly develops into blossoming feelings from Kieran.
What Worked: The writing in this one was FANTASTIC. At only twenty or so pages in I found myself laughing out loud. Kieran has a delightful personality. His dry sense of humor and willingness to call Seth out for his behaviors was endearing and entertaining. Chant has a way with writing that draws the reader in and keeps them invested in the characters and plot. While this has a political campaign as the backdrop, there isn't a lot of conversation about politics. Chant uses the space to focus on the character development especially Kieran's experience as a trans man. This experience is a balance of ups and downs and while Chant does discuss the negative experience Kieran has at the hands of fellow employees, it is balanced with a supportive best friend and Seth. I enjoyed Kieran so much as a character so after everything he's been through it was nice to see him get an HEA. Chant also used the narrative to discuss people's perceptions of bisexuality as well as the spectrum that exists in the LGBTQIA+ community especially when it comes to terminology utilized as identification. That scene at the end was EVERYTHING. Good and spicy! I loved it! I wanted to learn more about Kieran and Seth after the story ended, but I think that Chant gave us a enough to conclude it on a fun and positive note.
Overall, this was a great read. I'm definitely looking forward to checking out more from Austin Chant in the future.
March 9, 2017
Austin Chant's prose is just so easy to read. Sometimes I feel like his stories are downloading themselves directly into my brain.
Chant, who is also trans, has his trans MC Kieran point out how hard can be getting people to treat him like a person instead of a Very Special Episode: “Marcus thinks I’m brave for getting out of bed in the morning. He doesn’t take me seriously. He takes my problems seriously.” Kieran is volunteering for a political campaign while slowly falling for his cranky boss Seth, who in turn has a crush on Marcus, their straight supervisor.
Seth is much older than Kieran, who's just out of college while Seth is in his thirties. He's your basic scowly, formal dressing sexy older guy trope, while Kieran is kind of a brat who thinks he doesn't have a good work ethic but actually does, he's just afraid to try for things in case they don't work out. Kieran also totally has that endearing, realistic habit of babbling when he's nervous and turned on, like when they're out at a restaurant snacking after working super late.
Seth is a haven of correct pronouns in an office of cis people who need constant reminding. Marcus, on the other hand, is very self-conscious about wanting to be a safe space as as a consequence just achieves a lot of awkwardness. Even Seth's help is sometimes complicated: "Now everyone is going to avoid using Kieran's pronouns at all for fear of Seth's wrath descending on them, and that'll make Kieran feel like a ghost floating around the office." Isn't that gorgeous writing?
Austin has such a great way of talking about uncomfortable topics: "If you get a splinter or something, it doesn't hurt until you fucking press on it?" Yes. This. I'm Going Through Things and honestly one of the most helpful things people can do is not bring it up unless I do first.
Kieran doesn't think Marcus 'gets it': If you feel so bad for me, try fixing the world. I mean, the man actually says "It's making me happier to be in such an inclusive workplace." Says the straight cis man. He's basically a poster child for how to try really hard to be helpful but still fall short. Meanwhile, Seth actually gets it and that's why he and Kieran wind up becoming close. Also because they're both pretty lonely both in their personal lives and in being the only gay-or-bi people in the whole campaign office.
Kieran's got a supportive bi girl best friend, so between Seth and Jillian the book has plenty of positive bi representation.
Anyway, it's a cute, straightforward contemporary romance with a heavy focus on emotion and connection based on how people treat each other but still a fair portion to physical attraction. There is a sex scene by the end in which -- if you're curious -- several different acts are performed with Kieran's silicone dick, which I, personally, thought was cool.
CW for a lot of misgendering on the part of minor characters.
Chant, who is also trans, has his trans MC Kieran point out how hard can be getting people to treat him like a person instead of a Very Special Episode: “Marcus thinks I’m brave for getting out of bed in the morning. He doesn’t take me seriously. He takes my problems seriously.” Kieran is volunteering for a political campaign while slowly falling for his cranky boss Seth, who in turn has a crush on Marcus, their straight supervisor.
Seth is much older than Kieran, who's just out of college while Seth is in his thirties. He's your basic scowly, formal dressing sexy older guy trope, while Kieran is kind of a brat who thinks he doesn't have a good work ethic but actually does, he's just afraid to try for things in case they don't work out. Kieran also totally has that endearing, realistic habit of babbling when he's nervous and turned on, like when they're out at a restaurant snacking after working super late.
Seth is a haven of correct pronouns in an office of cis people who need constant reminding. Marcus, on the other hand, is very self-conscious about wanting to be a safe space as as a consequence just achieves a lot of awkwardness. Even Seth's help is sometimes complicated: "Now everyone is going to avoid using Kieran's pronouns at all for fear of Seth's wrath descending on them, and that'll make Kieran feel like a ghost floating around the office." Isn't that gorgeous writing?
Austin has such a great way of talking about uncomfortable topics: "If you get a splinter or something, it doesn't hurt until you fucking press on it?" Yes. This. I'm Going Through Things and honestly one of the most helpful things people can do is not bring it up unless I do first.
Kieran doesn't think Marcus 'gets it': If you feel so bad for me, try fixing the world. I mean, the man actually says "It's making me happier to be in such an inclusive workplace." Says the straight cis man. He's basically a poster child for how to try really hard to be helpful but still fall short. Meanwhile, Seth actually gets it and that's why he and Kieran wind up becoming close. Also because they're both pretty lonely both in their personal lives and in being the only gay-or-bi people in the whole campaign office.
Kieran's got a supportive bi girl best friend, so between Seth and Jillian the book has plenty of positive bi representation.
Anyway, it's a cute, straightforward contemporary romance with a heavy focus on emotion and connection based on how people treat each other but still a fair portion to physical attraction. There is a sex scene by the end in which -- if you're curious -- several different acts are performed with Kieran's silicone dick, which I, personally, thought was cool.
CW for a lot of misgendering on the part of minor characters.
June 5, 2018
. : ☾⋆ — 4 ★
this was so cute!!!! so pure!!!!!! austin chant is such a blessing and we don’t deserve him!!!!!
if you liked the hating game but want it BETTER and GAYER then this is 100% for you. it’s incredible how austin chant can make characters feel real and endearing and make you absolutely fall in love with them in less than 70 pages. speaking of which, this should’ve been 300 pages longer??? i didn’t want it to end!!!! i want a sequel!!!!!!
i also think it’s super important to point out that austin chant always ALWAYS ALWAYS makes his trans characters have the best of times and gives them happy endings and even though i’m not trans myself, i know people who are and who would appreciate seeing stuff like this instead of the usual angsty trans books which are all about coming out. not that there’s anything wrong with them but there’s so much more to it than that!!!!!! let your trans characters have fun!!!!! let’s all learn something from austin chant!!!!!!! whom i adore!!!!!!!!
this was so cute!!!! so pure!!!!!! austin chant is such a blessing and we don’t deserve him!!!!!
if you liked the hating game but want it BETTER and GAYER then this is 100% for you. it’s incredible how austin chant can make characters feel real and endearing and make you absolutely fall in love with them in less than 70 pages. speaking of which, this should’ve been 300 pages longer??? i didn’t want it to end!!!! i want a sequel!!!!!!
i also think it’s super important to point out that austin chant always ALWAYS ALWAYS makes his trans characters have the best of times and gives them happy endings and even though i’m not trans myself, i know people who are and who would appreciate seeing stuff like this instead of the usual angsty trans books which are all about coming out. not that there’s anything wrong with them but there’s so much more to it than that!!!!!! let your trans characters have fun!!!!! let’s all learn something from austin chant!!!!!!! whom i adore!!!!!!!!
March 14, 2023
The longer they sit and talk, the more Kieran realizes he’s bound to embarrass himself where Seth is concerned. He has a growing, horrifying suspicion that it’s obvious how everything Seth does is endearing to him.
Everything Seth does—like eating fries and sliders with impeccable table manners—makes Kieran want to stay there all night, even for the awkward parts. He wants to know more. Wants to crack Seth open and memorize him.
I needed a pick me up yesterday, so I reached for another Austin Chant, because Peter Darling was awesome and I am SO far from disappointed. Honestly, I expected to enjoy this, but not really to love it. I thought I loved Peter Darling so much partly because... you know, Peter Pan. But it turns out I just like to read about mean little shits that can't keep their mouths shut... Really, teasing is my love language too. It's a hard life...
On the other hand, I very much related to Seth's more reserved nature too. And the way in which he relates to queerness through studying queer history instead of going to gay bars.
For being so short this story also contains a lot of small pieces of... realness, I guess. I mean like the theme of relating to words and language, of having different queer experiences... I can't even remember, but those small mentions just make Seth and Kiernan feel like real human beings.
I put myself on strict curfew and I just couldn't keep it, because I couldn't stop reading. I enjoyed this so ridiculously much... Part of me feels like this "shouldn't be" a five star read, but... it just is. (Sorry, not sorry...)
March 9, 2017
review also posted on Wordpress! spoiler-free review!
I was so happy when I was finally able to buy Coffee Boy. It's currently on sale on smashwords, so definitely check it out!
All I knew about Coffee Boy before reading it, was that the main character is a trans man. And that was enough for me! Because of the title and cover, I had expected him to be a barista in a coffee shop, but that was definitely not the case! Still, this novella was very enjoyable.
I'm a cisgender woman, so my review really doesn't matter. This book is #OwnVoices, because Austin Chant is a queer trans man. Still, I have to convince you to read this as well!
First of all, I love that we got to read about a trans man who doesn't always pass (e.g. Kieran wears a pronouns pin). When trans people are represented in media - which is almost never - they often pass very easily. However, there are many more trans people who do not pass so easily or who cannot afford or do not want to undergo surgeries. And I love that Chant showed us that side as well.
This is an M/M New Adult romance and there is one explicit sex scene. Once again, as a cisgender person I don't know much about it, but I really loved how the author handled it. None of the sexual acts had anything to do with the stereotypical, cisgender and heterosexual idea of what sex should be like. The cisgender bisexual man was actually the bottom and even though that's only a detail, that seemed very important to me.
As I have mentioned a few times before, I love diverse stories that don't revolve around that aspect of the character. This isn't a story about a closeted Kieran who is dramatically outed to his entire workspace and has to deal with the aftermath of that. No. This is a cute M/M romance about Kieran who is a trans man. Having said that though, he does have to deal with micro-aggressions at his workplace, such as people using the wrong pronouns. But the conversations about those micro-aggressions seem so very real and (I hate to say it, but) important.
As a bisexual woman, I was kind of iffy about the way the bisexual character was represented as one point. The following quote didn't sit well with me:
First of all, Kieran knew that Seth had been married to a woman. So why did he assume he was gay? Secondly, the last sentence kind of implies that bisexual people identify as such to be considered "different" and "edgy".
Having said that, that was the only instance I noticed such phrasing, so I might have interpreted it wrong.
Kieran is brutally honest and blunt. Most of the time, I dislike such characters, but that wasn't the case with him!
I cannot wait to read Peter Darling, Chant's other book. The 'about the author' section says he always writes about trans characters who get the love they deserve, so I'm looking forward to that!
conclusion: Coffee Boy was a fast-paced and diverse M/M romance! I would recommend this to everyone, though be aware that there is one explicit sex scene.
✿ You can also find me on Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, Pinterest and Wordpress! ✿
I was so happy when I was finally able to buy Coffee Boy. It's currently on sale on smashwords, so definitely check it out!
All I knew about Coffee Boy before reading it, was that the main character is a trans man. And that was enough for me! Because of the title and cover, I had expected him to be a barista in a coffee shop, but that was definitely not the case! Still, this novella was very enjoyable.
I'm a cisgender woman, so my review really doesn't matter. This book is #OwnVoices, because Austin Chant is a queer trans man. Still, I have to convince you to read this as well!
First of all, I love that we got to read about a trans man who doesn't always pass (e.g. Kieran wears a pronouns pin). When trans people are represented in media - which is almost never - they often pass very easily. However, there are many more trans people who do not pass so easily or who cannot afford or do not want to undergo surgeries. And I love that Chant showed us that side as well.
This is an M/M New Adult romance and there is one explicit sex scene. Once again, as a cisgender person I don't know much about it, but I really loved how the author handled it. None of the sexual acts had anything to do with the stereotypical, cisgender and heterosexual idea of what sex should be like. The cisgender bisexual man was actually the bottom and even though that's only a detail, that seemed very important to me.
As I have mentioned a few times before, I love diverse stories that don't revolve around that aspect of the character. This isn't a story about a closeted Kieran who is dramatically outed to his entire workspace and has to deal with the aftermath of that. No. This is a cute M/M romance about Kieran who is a trans man. Having said that though, he does have to deal with micro-aggressions at his workplace, such as people using the wrong pronouns. But the conversations about those micro-aggressions seem so very real and (I hate to say it, but) important.
As a bisexual woman, I was kind of iffy about the way the bisexual character was represented as one point. The following quote didn't sit well with me:
“God, you are the tragic gay man.”
Seth smiles. “I’m bisexual.”
“Oh.” Kieran swallows his food. “I guess that’s more original.”
First of all, Kieran knew that Seth had been married to a woman. So why did he assume he was gay? Secondly, the last sentence kind of implies that bisexual people identify as such to be considered "different" and "edgy".
Having said that, that was the only instance I noticed such phrasing, so I might have interpreted it wrong.
Kieran is brutally honest and blunt. Most of the time, I dislike such characters, but that wasn't the case with him!
I cannot wait to read Peter Darling, Chant's other book. The 'about the author' section says he always writes about trans characters who get the love they deserve, so I'm looking forward to that!
conclusion: Coffee Boy was a fast-paced and diverse M/M romance! I would recommend this to everyone, though be aware that there is one explicit sex scene.
✿ You can also find me on Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, Pinterest and Wordpress! ✿
October 22, 2016
Kieran is an out trans man who keeps his hair long and knows he has a high, feminine voice. He wears a pronoun pin and still people confuse it. He has a job that pays the rent, flipping burgers, but suddenly he’s been offered a political internship with a former professor, Marcus. His first day doesn’t start off well, as “Trust Marcus to promise him a trans-friendly workplace and not even bother to find out if anyone around him is trans-friendly.” He has to escape the confusion and this means barging into the office of the man who actually does most of the work, Seth. Seth can be very abrupt and has a very big crush on Marcus.
So let’s talk Marcus. He is so oblivious to the real world. He has his job because he’s a nephew and he really doesn’t do anything to contribute to the campaign. He brought Kieran on to basically show how enlightened he is, but then he doesn’t follow through. He has no idea Seth is infatuated and he has even less idea of how to run a successful campaign for his aunt. He wants to spend time with his baby girl and that’s about it.
So it’s up to Seth to really run the campaign. For Kieran, “Seth isn’t as intimidating as everyone thinks, because he’s crushing hard on their boss.” That makes him more human and Kieran is happy to sit ringside to the drama. Of course, what ends up happening is that Kieran starts to see the man behind the prim and uptight exterior. A man that Kieran begins to respect and like very much. A man who shows respect for Kieran and makes sure others do the same, including Marcus.
I liked Seth immensely. He is big enough to admit when he’s overreacted and he is a staunch friend to Kieran. He appreciates Kieran for exactly who is he, which is a treasure to read, even as we watch Kieran start to fall for Seth. “Honestly, he’s never met a guy more in need of a boyfriend. Kieran hopes he’s up to the task.” I do too.
It was a pleasure watching these become uneasy allies, friends and more. Recommended.
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
So let’s talk Marcus. He is so oblivious to the real world. He has his job because he’s a nephew and he really doesn’t do anything to contribute to the campaign. He brought Kieran on to basically show how enlightened he is, but then he doesn’t follow through. He has no idea Seth is infatuated and he has even less idea of how to run a successful campaign for his aunt. He wants to spend time with his baby girl and that’s about it.
So it’s up to Seth to really run the campaign. For Kieran, “Seth isn’t as intimidating as everyone thinks, because he’s crushing hard on their boss.” That makes him more human and Kieran is happy to sit ringside to the drama. Of course, what ends up happening is that Kieran starts to see the man behind the prim and uptight exterior. A man that Kieran begins to respect and like very much. A man who shows respect for Kieran and makes sure others do the same, including Marcus.
I liked Seth immensely. He is big enough to admit when he’s overreacted and he is a staunch friend to Kieran. He appreciates Kieran for exactly who is he, which is a treasure to read, even as we watch Kieran start to fall for Seth. “Honestly, he’s never met a guy more in need of a boyfriend. Kieran hopes he’s up to the task.” I do too.
It was a pleasure watching these become uneasy allies, friends and more. Recommended.
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
January 18, 2017
4.5 rounded up
Amazingly cool little story
Amazingly cool little story
September 25, 2018
This is pretty much what it says on the tin - the story is given away in its entirety in the synopsis. Not that that’s a bad thing, but it’s an observation!
This was a good all-round read which discussed some topics which are often absent from LGBTQIAP+ literature. The discussion of pronouns in the workplace was something I particularly appreciated. Seeing pronouns actually be monitored and the boss ensuring that everyone was respectful was a really enlightening aspect. I also really liked how Kieran talks about how everything is about his pronouns but he just wants to be like everyone else. He brings up the point that he shouldn’t be treated differently, or put on a pedestal, because he’s just like everyone else. I loved that - there truly isn’t enough normalisation of marginalised groups in literature and it was so refreshing to see it here.
“Admittedly, he spends the next six hours watching cooking dramas on Netflix and eating an entire pint of ice cream, but that’s his standard self-care routine.”
Another particularly interesting aspect of the book was seeing how words affect people and the importance of reclaiming a word (which I really appreciated):
- “I’m not overly fond of the word ‘queer’ either.”
- “Oh.”
- “It’s not that I don’t identify with the general idea, it’s more that I can’t help thinking of it as...” Seth’s face closes a little. “As the kind of thing boys call each other when they can’t think of anything else.”
(Side note: I also appreciated Kieran’s internal response: ‘That’s the kind of experience Kieran can’t really identify with.’ It’s nice to see a balance in experiences and different sides)
- “Sometimes you have to reclaim it,” he mutters. “Because it gets rubbed in your face either way.”
There is also a situation wherein Kieran essentially makes Seth tell him his sexuality - but then a couple of pages later he apologises, says it wasn’t his information to get, and he had no right to force it out of him and make him uncomfortable. I really appreciated that, too!
There’s a lot of great examples and some really intimate thoughts/discussions which I felt were really important to the development of this short story. It would’ve been interesting to see what else could’ve been added in had it been longer, too!
The whole story just felt very real and I really enjoyed it overall. I couldn’t give it five stars simply because some of the aspects felt rushed and underdeveloped, but I do understand the book itself is a short story and that is the purpose of it, but I do wish there was more of it. A story of this caliber certainly deserves it.
This was a good all-round read which discussed some topics which are often absent from LGBTQIAP+ literature. The discussion of pronouns in the workplace was something I particularly appreciated. Seeing pronouns actually be monitored and the boss ensuring that everyone was respectful was a really enlightening aspect. I also really liked how Kieran talks about how everything is about his pronouns but he just wants to be like everyone else. He brings up the point that he shouldn’t be treated differently, or put on a pedestal, because he’s just like everyone else. I loved that - there truly isn’t enough normalisation of marginalised groups in literature and it was so refreshing to see it here.
“Admittedly, he spends the next six hours watching cooking dramas on Netflix and eating an entire pint of ice cream, but that’s his standard self-care routine.”
Another particularly interesting aspect of the book was seeing how words affect people and the importance of reclaiming a word (which I really appreciated):
- “I’m not overly fond of the word ‘queer’ either.”
- “Oh.”
- “It’s not that I don’t identify with the general idea, it’s more that I can’t help thinking of it as...” Seth’s face closes a little. “As the kind of thing boys call each other when they can’t think of anything else.”
(Side note: I also appreciated Kieran’s internal response: ‘That’s the kind of experience Kieran can’t really identify with.’ It’s nice to see a balance in experiences and different sides)
- “Sometimes you have to reclaim it,” he mutters. “Because it gets rubbed in your face either way.”
There is also a situation wherein Kieran essentially makes Seth tell him his sexuality - but then a couple of pages later he apologises, says it wasn’t his information to get, and he had no right to force it out of him and make him uncomfortable. I really appreciated that, too!
There’s a lot of great examples and some really intimate thoughts/discussions which I felt were really important to the development of this short story. It would’ve been interesting to see what else could’ve been added in had it been longer, too!
The whole story just felt very real and I really enjoyed it overall. I couldn’t give it five stars simply because some of the aspects felt rushed and underdeveloped, but I do understand the book itself is a short story and that is the purpose of it, but I do wish there was more of it. A story of this caliber certainly deserves it.
November 21, 2016
Oh gosh that was cute. Like hella freakin cute.
I really really liked Kieran. I was afraid he would be this shy trans guy uncomfortable with his body... but he wasn't. He's trans, he's gay, he wears his pronouns pin because he deserves not to be misgendered all day long. But guess what, he is. Okay he has long hair - because he likes it that way - and a high-pitched voice - that he also likes - but that doesn't mean he should be misgendered as a girl. Because he's not. And if he wants to keep his hair long, that's his choice, and it still doesn't give you the right to call him 'she'. And there is one person fighting for Kieran: Seth, our precious bisexual king who won't accept that people still think that Kieran is a girl. And that's something you cannot not love about Seth. Throughout the story, he's the one correcting people when they don't use the good pronouns, he's the one trying to raise awareness about transgender people so this work place can be safe for them. Since day one, he's showing that he cares about Kieran and his happiness.
This story was amazing, I learned so many things about the trans community, and that made me realize that I knew nearly nothing about what it's like after you realize that you're trans. That's something you don't learn about in school books, so I'm glad books like this one exist.
4.25
Around the Year in 52 books 2016.
21. A book from the Goodreads Recommendations page.
I really really liked Kieran. I was afraid he would be this shy trans guy uncomfortable with his body... but he wasn't. He's trans, he's gay, he wears his pronouns pin because he deserves not to be misgendered all day long. But guess what, he is. Okay he has long hair - because he likes it that way - and a high-pitched voice - that he also likes - but that doesn't mean he should be misgendered as a girl. Because he's not. And if he wants to keep his hair long, that's his choice, and it still doesn't give you the right to call him 'she'. And there is one person fighting for Kieran: Seth, our precious bisexual king who won't accept that people still think that Kieran is a girl. And that's something you cannot not love about Seth. Throughout the story, he's the one correcting people when they don't use the good pronouns, he's the one trying to raise awareness about transgender people so this work place can be safe for them. Since day one, he's showing that he cares about Kieran and his happiness.
This story was amazing, I learned so many things about the trans community, and that made me realize that I knew nearly nothing about what it's like after you realize that you're trans. That's something you don't learn about in school books, so I'm glad books like this one exist.
4.25
Around the Year in 52 books 2016.
21. A book from the Goodreads Recommendations page.
January 17, 2021
After reading Peter Darling, I was very excited to read more of Austin Chant's books. And I really enjoyed this novella as well, except that it felt quite rushed and I would have seen more of a well-paced introduction into the romance. The novella is well-written, and I did like the romance, but I felt like the pacing was off, which made it difficult to stay invested. I guess I just wish this would have been a full-length novel!
What I did love, is that this book has the kind of rep that can only be Own Voices. It discusses different types of trans issues, but in a different way than what I've read before. For instance, there's a focus on how his transness influences Kieran's ambition: being misgendered at work all day makes him feel like he might never be able to have the career he would want in his ideal world. This is maybe not one of the most obvious ways being trans impacts someone's life, so I really appreciated this perspective. And I absolutely loved Kieran as a main character.
Rep: trans gay MC, bisexual love interest, bisexual side character
CWs: transphobia, misgendering, graphic sex scene
What I did love, is that this book has the kind of rep that can only be Own Voices. It discusses different types of trans issues, but in a different way than what I've read before. For instance, there's a focus on how his transness influences Kieran's ambition: being misgendered at work all day makes him feel like he might never be able to have the career he would want in his ideal world. This is maybe not one of the most obvious ways being trans impacts someone's life, so I really appreciated this perspective. And I absolutely loved Kieran as a main character.
Rep: trans gay MC, bisexual love interest, bisexual side character
CWs: transphobia, misgendering, graphic sex scene
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