Reimagine

Blue Mountain University #4

by A.E. Madsen

Travis

I'm on the verge of turning thirty and my little sister is getting married before me. It's not that I don't want to settle down and be an adult. I have a good job, I own my house, but so far a relationship hasn't been in the cards. Not that I can admit that when my sister offers to set me up with one of her bridesmaids. I may have lied about having a date, but I'm not showing up to the wedding alone. Taking my new roommate probably isn't what anyone had in mind, but there's something about Elliot that draws me in.

Elliot

I wasn't planning on moving out. When I ran into a old family friend with a room to rent, it all kind of fell together. Just like offering to be his date for his sister's wedding. I should know better than this. Fake dating my straight childhood crush is a recipe for heart break. Wearing makeup or femme clothes won't turn me into the girl he's looking for. But if all of this is fake, why does it feel so real when he kisses me?

Reimagine is a MX pan-awakening roommates to lovers romance novel featuring a femme nonbinary main character and the man who loves them just the way they are. Although this is book four of the series it does standalone.

Genres: Asexual, M M Romance, Queer, Romance

284 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 15, 2023

About the author

A. E. Madsen(they/them) is a stay-at-home parent and loving spouse. They live in California with their three children. A. has degrees in culinary arts and business management that have nothing to do with writing gay romance. They started writing gay romance in an attempt to better understand their gender identity and sexual orientation as a teenager, and it grew as a hobby from there. A. spends most of their time writing and reading stories about men falling in love with other men, but they also have ADHD and are easily distracted by social media and various topics of research that often have little relevance.

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this but I felt like there were a few loose ends and some story missing.

I liked the Ace representation because it was similar to how I identify, and it is annoying when people roll their eyes or assume that you really do want sex but you don't want to say it? Or even worse, they say you haven't met the right person yet 😤 so I definitely loved that part of Elliott's character and the way they call people out on their assumptions about what being asexual means to a person.

I also forgot how annoying Stella is. She's a character in this series that I have just never liked, and definitely has the kind of personality I would not be comfortable around at all. I've never wished laryngitis on a character before but I so wanted her to not be able to talk!!!

While I enjoyed how their relationship built, there were a few things I wanted to see that were just not there. I wanted Elliott's dad's reaction or more time with their sister - it felt really childish to keep ignoring and avoiding them. Elliott was wrong about CeCe's reaction but nothing was mentioned about the dad - did he truly feel aversely towards Elliott's identity, or is it Elliott overthinking and assuming?

Also, what was the reaction of Elliott's friends to the relationship with Travis? They were all so close and protective but then they all disappeared, which felt off and didn't fit with how the characters behaved in earlier books, or even in the beginning of this book.

The situation with Derek was also confusing and abrupt - he came across as a really bad friend and when they do reconcile we don't even get to see it?

If these things had been addressed or included I could have happily rated higher, but I just felt like too much was missing.

[Dani (Daniiireads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

- small age gap (29/22)
- NB & ace rep
- roommates
- fake dating
- only one bed
- bi awakening

Elliot has been roommates with Aiden, Ian, and Liam, but feels awkward and a bit lonely now that they've all paired off and gotten into relationships and their friendship dynamic has changed. Elliot has been contemplating moving out, and when they sees Travis, an old family friend in search of a roommate, they jump at the opportunity to take the room he is offering.

On top of needing to find a roommate, Travis needs to find himself a date for his little sister's upcoming wedding. After some nudging from his best friend, he tries online dating, but never really clicks with any of the women he's met. Instead he can't stop thinking about Elliot, and when Elliot offers to be his date to the wedding he accepts.

The more time spent with Elliot has Travis realizing he might not be as straight as he thought he was, and while he doesn't fully understand what it means to be NB and ace, he's so supportive and willing to learn.

I kind of threw myself into the middle of this series, but didn't feel like I missed out on much. Travis and Elliot are so cute! Their relationship was super sweet and the progression from friends to more wasn't overly fast or forced. I really loved how supportive Travis of Elliot was, and how open he was to take things slowly and never pressured Elliot for more.

[Jacqueleen the Reading Queen♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Done with listening to their roommates sexual escapades through extremely thin walls, Elliot makes the decision to move out of their shared apartment and into a room for rent from an old family friend Travis. This may have not been the best idea since everyone but Travis sees it's obvious Elliot has a crush on him, but then again it started the ball rolling on their eventual relationship so in hindsight maybe it was a good idea. The problem is that Travis previously identified as straight and we've all heard the tales of woe that can lead to. Thankfully, this particular "straight" guy ends up being not so straight which I'm sure you've guessed based on this being a romance.

I liked how respectful Travis was of Elliot. He asked questions about their preferred pronouns since Elliot identifies as nonbinary and uses they/them, even though at the time Eliott's work tag included he as well. Travis was also very sensitive to the fact that they were asexual and was constantly making sure he was being considerate of this. All that was lovely from a romance partner POV, but from a reader perspective, it felt like we were being told something instead of being shown.

I wanted a bit more romance with this one. I felt like Travis was always reassuring Elliot, rather than them having truly romantic dialogue. It was great seeing Elliot blossom into the more self confident person they could be with Travis' support. I was so happy for them when bit by bit they started feeling more like themselves and being brave enough to own it. Elliot is wise beyond their years. The age gap felt nonexistent. They were a blunt yet genuine kind of person and I think Travis was as well. They were kind of similar in that way. I'm glad I read this book. I couldn't have missed Elliot's story. And though I wish this was more of a whirlwind sweep you off your feet type romance I don't know why I was expecting , I think Elliot would have preferred theirs this way. Travis too come to think of it.

[m · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I’ve been around plenty of guys while they undressed, between roommates and locker rooms, and I’ve never thought twice about it. Except Elliot isn’t a guy and seeing their silky thong…”
ARC Review~

First off: 10,000⭐️ for enby and ace rep. The author pulled from their own experience and it showed. I loved the quiet intimacy and domestic bliss Elliot and Travis fell into.

However. This book suffered from too many moving parts. Initially Travis wants a roommate so he can save money to finish renovations on his house - this plot line gets completely abandoned until the last 5% or so. Then there’s fake dating with Elliot going to Travis’s sister’s wedding. The fact that their sisters are/were best friends wasn’t well fleshed out so it was confusing that Elliot was surprised their sister was a bridesmaid. Then there’s only one bed. Elliot also likes wearing makeup and lingerie so that’s another theme that gets explored. And it felt like time was spent explaining that Travis only went into construction to make his dad proud and he felt like he couldn’t pursue cooking but at the end he’s happy with his decision and thinks he wouldn’t like cooking if it was a job vs a hobby. Idk stuff like that felt confusing to me and without the excellent rep this would’ve been rated lower. 🫤

[Bkwrm24 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Travis and Elliot ❤️

3 stars ⭐️

I adored some parts of this story while others fell somewhere in the middle if I'm honest. I adored the relationship progression from friends to lovers as well as the support these two had for each other which imo was everything. It had sweetness, and some spice but somehow I still felt like something was missing story wise, but then again it could be just my interpretation of certain events in this book. All in all this was a solid read with very likable characters. I am a fan of this author and this series as a whole, so I would recommend.

* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *

[Kitty · Rating 4 out of 5]

A E Madsen is a new-to-me author (although of course I'd seen their name around) and I downloaded this book mostly for the sex-positive asexual character. Add in fake-dating, one of my all time favourite tropes, and I just couldn't resist.

I loved the ace representation in this, it very much matches my own experience and it's so amazing to see a character who thinks and feels about sex in a similar way to me. I can't highlight enough how important and validating that is. Obviously there is a spectrum of asexuality and nobody will be exactly the same but it was an absolute joy to see such a sensitive and authentic portrayal.

The book is sweet and low angst with plenty of cuddles and cuteness. Both MCs are thoroughly adorable, and I'm quite envious of Elliot. If only all guys were so sweet and understanding as Travis. I would probably have scored it higher, except I found the last 20% or so dragged for me and I didn't quite feel all the story threads had been explored to their maximum potential. And although I'm definitely a fan of low angst, I felt this could have maybe used just a smidge more drama. That said, I enjoyed most of it very much, and I still absolutely recommend it.

[DLB2572 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elliot & Travis

I think this may have been my favorite story of the series. I really liked how things progressed for Travis and Elliot. I enjoyed their whole story very much.

I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion

[Katriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really, really, enjoyed this story! I thought the flow of the story was really great, all of the characters feathered made sense and had a reason to be there, for the most part anyway. Our MC's worked really well together, I absolutely adore how supportive Travis is of Elliot, and how he constantly reassures him. I thought that was really sweet, and I enjoyed that his character was supportive and understanding.

As someone who identifies as Ace I could really relate to Elliot's character, I've read a few books that have had characters who identify as asexual, but none that I've really related to. But when Elliot's character described what asexual means to them I felt seen. Cause how he feels is how I feel, for the most part anyway. I loved being able to relate to a character on that profound level, and I really appreciate how the author made it known that being Ace can be different depending on the person.

While the MC's relationship did develop kind of quickly I enjoyed it, it didn't feel rushed or forced, their relationship just slowed naturally. I loved how they prioritized communication, and made sure to check in with one another. My favorite part about this story was how sex wasn't made into this big deal. I feel like often times in romance books people assume you can't have romance without sex, which isn't true. And this story showcased that really beautifully. Was there stilk spicy scenes in this book? Yes. But that wasn't the focal point of their relationship, which I really enjoyed and appreciated.

One thing that I want to point out is how Elliot's sister and dad was mentioned, but after that there wasn't much else... Elliot's dad never because part of the story, and aside from the one scene Elliot's sister was in, she was just a character that was briefly mentioned. Other than that though, a really great romance story!!

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an early copy of Reimagine from A.E. Madsen & I thank them for the opportunity to read this book which featured the roommate/one bed/ fake dating tropes. I read this book as a standalone, having not read any other books in this series so far and I didn't feel like I was missing anything. 

I was drawn into Elliot's world quite literally from the first chapter of this book. Being comfortable in your own skin and being true to yourself is a struggle for most young people and we saw Elliot's experience with this. Throughout the book, Elliot grows more confident and it shows in how they act and dress at the end of the book when compared to the beginnng. This is the kind of character growth I love to see in a character. Besides that, Elliot was just so lovable. As a reader, I felt protective of them and was so glad they found Travis who fully accepted them. 

Travis was the type of person we all need in our lives! He was just so open, not only to Elliot, but also to exploring his own fluid sexuality. I loved how he just wanted Elliot to be themselves no matter what. He was proud to have Elliot on his arm and there was no shame. That was my favorite part. I also love to see a supportive family and Travis defintely had that. 

There was love between Travis & Elliot for sure, but not a ton of romance if that makes sense. This is not a bad thing, but probably more indicative of the emotional bond shared between these two as well as Elliots comfort level being out in the world as a person who is ace and nonbinary.  As a human who reads, I love to see this kind of rep in a book. 

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Travis and Elliot knew each other growing up, but they didn’t know each other well, since Elliot is seven years younger. When they met again in a coffee shop where Elliot worked, Travis was looking for a roommate, and Elliot needed a new place to live. Elliot really liked Travis, but identifying as non-binary and asexual when Travis was straight, he didn’t have much hope of anything more than friends. When Travis needs a date for his sister’s wedding, but doesn’t know anyone to ask, Elliot volunteers, and things begin to change. Can these two find a way to get together and have a lasting relationship to fulfill both?
As Travis expressed in his thoughts,”I wasn’t looking for a roommate as much as someone to share time with. I wanted to be a part of something. Being with Elliot might not be exactly what I’d had in mind, but maybe I was too focused on the fantasy in my head. I didn’t know it just needed some tweaks and reimagining.”
Fun story with engaging characters that also helps those with less grasp of all the nuances of the LGBTQ+ world with a bit of education. Thanks, A. E. Madden, much appreciated as I work to wrap my head around all of the various identifications that were never even named (that I am aware of) when I grew up decades ago.
I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.

[Dear Reader 0801 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was another great installment in the Blue Mountain University series. This was a quick read for me and light in the angst department. It felt like a lot of learning and figuring things out between the characters which was a nice change of pace and definitely felt more realistic.

Elliot is a senior at BMU who works at the cafe as a barista. They have been living with characters from a previous book in the series but often felt like the odd person out as their friends have paired off into couples and it’s just not the same. When they run into an old family acquaintance who just so happens to have a room for rent, it feels like a chance they should take. It gets a little complicated when Travis ends up being their childhood crush.

I really liked Elliot and Travis as a couple because it always felt like the lines of communication were open. Elliot is confident in who they are and identifying as nonbinary but has reservations about discussing their asexuality with Travis as it’s been something previous partners had trouble accepting. Travis may not have experience with certain things but he’s willing to learn, ask questions and is more than supportive of Elliot. I liked that if Travis didn’t know how to proceed, he asked first.

Looking forward to the next book in the series!

[Roger R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this story by A.E. Madsen! I absolutely loved that one of the MC happens to be pan and the straight MC did not mind that one bit! I have been enjoying more books with pan characters because they are free to be who they want to be and how they dress as if there’s no gender definition there! Definitely 5 stars reading from me!

The story focuses on Travis who had to find a date for his sister’s wedding while looking for a roommate. In the meantime, Elliot, a barista was living with roommates who happens to have their partners which made him feel kind of left out and dealing with grunting noises during the night. He decided he wanted to move out and happened to bump into Travis who he knew from his childhood. When he found out Travis was looking for a roommate, he jumped at the chance. Also he volunteered to be Travis’ date at the wedding. I’m going to stop right here and have you pick up the book to read to find the twists and turns in the story! A great reading!

[Heather Duff · Rating 4 out of 5]

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Reimagine is a very sweet and cuddly story with some wonderful ace and non-binary rep. I love books that represent a variety of sexualities.

Both MCs are lovely and kind. Reconnecting after years since their families were friends. So it makes sense for Elliot to rent a room from Travis. Except for their crush.

“Should I really be moving in with Travis when I’m into him? It’s a recipe for disaster. Having a crush on a straight guy.”

Travis has an easy acceptance of Elliot, and it’s swoony how much he wants Elliot to be themselves. It’s not surprising that it takes some time for Elliot to trust the truth of Travis’ words and actions. Other folks haven’t always been kind or understanding. Thankfully Travis never gives up.

This is a low-angst story that was steady and true and full of cuddles.

[Elle Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book by new-to-me author A.E.Madsen as a stand-alone and very much enjoyed it.

I loved the character of Elliot, and appreciated every step they took on their journey of self-discovery. The growth in confidence they achieved was inspiring. It was refreshing to read a character who was non-binary and ace.

Travis, cis-male and allegedly straight, was quickly down for cuddling with Elliot. Cuddling rapidly turned to more and I adored that he didn’t stress out too much about the label that society would inevitably slap on him. He was just certain of his feelings and that was good enough for him. I also appreciated his self-reflections on his career path, which also showed growth and development.

Overall, I found myself yearning to pick the book back up again, even when I had other responsibilities and that, to me, is indicative of a well-written book with captivating characters. 5 stars.

[kadairh · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up to 4 as was well-written and the character Elliot a complex one, but thought Travis's friend Derek is creepy in how he checked out Elliot, and the ending was very abrupt.

Elliot and Travis knew each other when young, Elliot even then knew they liked Travis, and a chance meeting at Elliot's cafe where they worked re-established their connection. It also provided an 0pportunity for further contact as Elliot was looking to move out from their flat shared with friends.

This story has the classic trope of pretending to be in a relationship as the date to a wedding, which then develops into more, but the more is relatively low angst and the story at that point is more of a gentle progression of their relationship. Another trope is bi- or pan-sexual awakening on Travis's side.

This story is well-written which a non-binary character which goes in depth regarding their viewpoint, but don't like the Darren character, and the family background of Elliot is somewhat muddy despite the amount written about his sister.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

[L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like the fake date trope especially if they are roomies. This one always feels like it is wish fulfillment, even if neither party is conscious of the wish to be with the person that they are faking it for or faking it with. Travis does not want to go to his sister's wedding alone and he surely does not want to be introduced. He is successful, he owns his own home for goodness sake, and he hasn't met the person yet who does it for him. So what is the rush and why are others always trying to push? But that push leads him to invite Elliot, his roomie, to be his date. The time they spend together turns from fake to real and it is lovely to see them open up to one another and for Travis to be open and embracing of a new sense of who he thought of himself to be. Travis had thought himself to be straight. New revelations with a partner he enjoyed helped him to realize otherwise. Their story was lovely.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Juniper · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is low in angst and high in sweetness, cuddles, and adorability. It’s part of a series, but can, I think, easily work as a standalone. Elliot and Travis have a dynamic that’s full of care and acceptance, and there’s some thoughtful ace, NB, and pan rep. Both are lovely characters who fit together nicely, and their relationship trajectory unfolds at a good pace: with enough time to see things developing but not so much that it feels like nothing is happening. There’s something very validating about how these characters come into their own with who they are and who they want to be with, and I value that, but, if I’m honest, I probably could have lived with a bit more drama at times– this is possibly more a me thing than a narrative requirement, however.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Anne Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, let me say I got this book from gay romance reviews, and this is me leaving my honest review.
This book was a slow burn for me. I really liked Travis and the way he respected Elliot’s feelings and sexuality. He was always there to reassure Elli that everything was okay. Elliot is asexual, so he sees things in a very different light to others. And he thinks the worst is going to happen when he tells Travis as this has happened with other men, but Travis takes it in his stride. He sees Elliot he doesn’t see sexuality. He sees and wants Elli. I wish there was a bit more excitement in the book. It was really on one level. I did enjoy the book don’t get me wrong but for me there was just a missing zip of magic.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elliot is an asexual femme who wears make up. He moves in with an old family friend, Travis who is straight. When he pretends to be Travis's date for a wedding, the two make the date thing real. I loved Travis and his openness to Elliot's feelings and wants although he asked constantly for consent. He was willing to provide whatever Elliot needed. Elliot was a little bossy and forward. I did feel it was all about what he wanted and he pressed his advances but rarely consulted with Travis as to his newness with his bisexuality and what he might be comfortable with. I appreciate A.E.'s possibly first attempt with an ACE and non binary character and their sensitivity with all sexual genders and identities, I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Back to school

What a blast to revisit the boys at BMU. And I'm beyond thrilled to read Elliot's story.

After years of being the fifth wheel with their friends, Elliot gets their time in the sun - and I'm so happy to see them embracing their true self.

As a non-binary, asexual student Elliot knows their identity could make it harder to find the right person. Thankfully, the right person enters the coffee shop where Elliot works part-time.

Travis is a straight construction worker who wonders why he can't find a serious girlfriend. When he reconnects with Elliot after several years, he's immediately intrigued.

This is a sweet story with just enough heat and still much heart!

[Jeanette Buck · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth story in the Blue Mountains series but it can be read as a stand alone.
Elliot who is a femme non-binary is getting fed up with hearing his roommates with their partners he decides it's time to move out. When he runs into an old family friend Travis who is looking for a roommate, he decides to go for it. Travis hasn't had the best luck with relationships and needs a date for his sister's wedding. Elliott offers to go as his date. They have been getting on well so Travis agrees. They have both enjoyed reconnecting and there's an attraction. They decide to take a chance on each other but it takes a little working round it as Elliott is pansexual and Travis hasn't got experience with men. It was a cute story and I enjoyed reading it.

[Thera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I haven't read many books with an asexual character before other than someone that is demisexual. I learned a few things reading this book. Obviously everyone is different and it's all on a spectrum but A did a wonderful job with the telling of this story. Elliot and Travis are so sweet together. Travis just goes with the flow of everything and Elliot helps guide him when he's confused or doesn't know what to do. I loved the intimacy between them. Relationships don't have to be sex all the time to be good and fulfilling.
The only thing I wish we had seen more of was Travis fixing his relationship with Derek.
Seriously a great book though. Highly recommend!!

[Saskia Veldhuis · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Elliot is a well written character showing really excellent representations of being non-binary/trans and asexual. I could really feel that the author was writing from own experiences, Elliot was mentioned as a hard character to write but that's exactly why they worked so well. From my own personal perspective as a person who also identifies as enby/trans/ace it's always wonderful to read about similar characters. We all need a Travis, what a supportive person. I would have liked to have seen more interaction with Derek.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.

[Malissa Hilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Story

This story was not what I expected it to be but never the less interesting. I’m always up for different kinds of stories and how they are written. It took a bit to get use to reading the They/Them but it worked out. The only problem I see with this book, other than a few grammatical errors, is the fact that Elliot kept telling his bi partner that he was into sex (anal) with him but they went around the issue. I know there are a lot of ways for sex but when you mention the asexual/nonbinary character saying they’re up for anal but then you don’t follow through with it seems to leave the book hanging somehow. At least for me. All in all I still think it deserves 5 stars ⭐️.

[Molly Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will say the romance of this story was more a side part of the overall story vs. building confidence in being your true self. The age gap really was a non question because, really, Elliot is wise beyond their years they just lack the confidence to be their true self. Travis is the perfect partner in helping them become confident in themselves.
Yes, the romance isn't a whirlwind, but sometimes you just need this simple build-up to find your perfect partner. Overall, it is a great non binary and ace representation that I full heartdly believe we need more of in the literary world. Will read more books from this author in the future.

[K-Me · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very sweet yet complex love story. Both Travis and Elliot feel out of sorts like they are different but each in their own way. Travis has never found that spark of interest in anyone and Elliot is a bit shy and insecure. I loved that their fake dating to the wedding had them sharing a bed. I enjoy close proximity and here it leads to sweet cuddling and even a little bit of lingerie! It was heartwarming to watch both of them grow into themselves and find love with each other. They completely accepted each other, and it was kind of beautiful.

[Robbo · Rating 5 out of 5]

An asexual gets more than they expected, and a straight guy has a thing for just one man.

Travis isn’t gay, he thinks. I’m not sure he is either, he’s only attracted to Elliot, who is gay, but asexual, which normally means Elliot’s sex life is far from perfect. Elliot and Travis do everything in the wrong order, yet they stumble and gravitate towards each other as a matter of inevitability. As Travis realises that Elliot is ‘the one’, and Elliot comes to the same conclusion, an unlikely but perfect HEA happens that neither saw coming.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's like sliding on an old glove. Travis, is happy his baby sister is getting married. But, she's getting married before him. Travis, decides to take his roommate, Elliot, as his wedding guest. Elliot has secretly crushed on Travis whom he believes is straight. He is in the process of finding who he is. He's going slowly, but he learns new things about himself every day. Travis, is open and receptive. Their journey from old friends to roommates to more is smooth sailing and delightful. Nice characters, likeable MC. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elliot is non-binary and ace, and they feel like they will never find someone to love them the way they are. Travis is straight and looking for a roommate…and he was also Elliot’s first crush. This was such a sweet book. I loved how vulnerable both characters were with each other, sharing their wants and needs. Travis was so supportive of Elliot in every way, and it was adorable. This book had low heat, no angst, and a HFN.

[LC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t have the words to describe how much I love this book. I have eagerly awaited it, watching all the guys pair up and seeing Elliot alone made me sad. They are a good person and so deserving of love. This book was everything I had hoped for. Elliot met a great guy in Travis, one who cherished them for who they were and encouraged them to do the things they wanted. It truly is a wonderful story.