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Play Me, I'm Yours
Fairy Tate. Twinklefingers. Lucy Lu. Will the taunting ever end? Lucas Tate suffers ridicule because of his appearance and sensitive nature. When he’s not teased, he’s ignored, and now he doesn’t know which is worse. His one comfort in life is his music; he feels unloved by everyone. What he wants more than anything is to find a friend.
Much to his dismay, both his mom and a schoolmate are determined to find him a boyfriend, despite the fact Lucas hasn’t come out to them. His mom chooses a football player who redefines the term “heartthrob,” while Trish pushes him toward the only openly gay boy at Providence High. But Lucas is harboring a crush on another boy, one who writes such romantic poetry to his girlfriend that hearing it melts Lucas into a puddle of goo. All three prospects seem so far out of his league. Lucas is sure he doesn’t stand a chance with any of them—until sharing his gift for music brings him the courage to let people into his heart.
Much to his dismay, both his mom and a schoolmate are determined to find him a boyfriend, despite the fact Lucas hasn’t come out to them. His mom chooses a football player who redefines the term “heartthrob,” while Trish pushes him toward the only openly gay boy at Providence High. But Lucas is harboring a crush on another boy, one who writes such romantic poetry to his girlfriend that hearing it melts Lucas into a puddle of goo. All three prospects seem so far out of his league. Lucas is sure he doesn’t stand a chance with any of them—until sharing his gift for music brings him the courage to let people into his heart.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2013
13 people are currently reading
1732 people want to read
About the author
Madison Parker
6 books283 followersMadison Parker grew up in Germany where she feasted on Gummibärchen, wandered through the woods on many a Volksmarch, and dreamed of one day living in a castle on a mountain with a boy who knew how to rock a pair of lederhosen. The Fates had other plans for her, but she’s not complaining.
Madison began writing LGBTQ fiction to help address issues of bullying and low self-esteem in young adults. Madison’s short story, SOCK IT TO ME, SANTA!, explores one boy’s struggle to come out in a hostile school environment. Her debut novel, PLAY ME, I'M YOURS, takes the reader on an emotional journey in search of love and self-acceptance.
Madison began writing LGBTQ fiction to help address issues of bullying and low self-esteem in young adults. Madison’s short story, SOCK IT TO ME, SANTA!, explores one boy’s struggle to come out in a hostile school environment. Her debut novel, PLAY ME, I'M YOURS, takes the reader on an emotional journey in search of love and self-acceptance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
April 2, 2013
3.25 stars
Not there yet (by there, I mean the 4-stars category :p). There are some things I like, some that I feel disappointed with. This was a buddy-read with several people -- where there were also discussions among us. BECAUSE of that, this opinion is LESS of a review and more about my feelings throughout.
AND THERE WILL BE SPOILERS!.
For more coherent review, please see others :)
The things I liked ...
+ Lucas' passion to music was wonderful.
+ Alex was a wonderful, wonderful friend. I liked him a lot
+ "Boo" was a cute endearment :)
+ The poems were wonderful as well
+ The father surprised me. At first, I thought that I would dislike him. That he would be one of those typical fathers that were portrayed as rigid and un-accepting. But turned out that he was one of the characters, who progressed.
The things I disliked ...
+ Lucas was a bit too naive, which was nice at first, but he didn't really improve. Except when he was talking about music.. And on account that I might offend some people I did feel that there were too many waterworks scene here
+ The female characters did not have any kind of "evolution". The mother was just weird. At first I thought she would be the "supportive mom", but as the story progressed, she got me all riled up for ignorant to what Lucas what was going through. The tennis talk? Didn't work for me. While Trish, the best friend, annoyed me when she was being slightly pushy about matchmaking Lucas and Donovan.
+ The twist about Zach () was also weird. It was like the issue was introduced to add flaws to Zach's perfect (though slightly bland) character. But it didn't work for me. And for seventeen years olds? Really?
+ The ending was a bit rushed too ... with everything that Lucas had been through (he had shed too many tears!), I was expecting 'more' as the ending. Something that felt, uhm, WAY more uplifting, more happy, more closure.
Now about Donovan ... I know that he was portrayed as the bad guy. But at the same time, I thought that he had a whole different story behind, that would make him redeemable to me. Unfortunately, his story wasn't told. His redemption story would be something I like to read in the future
Not there yet (by there, I mean the 4-stars category :p). There are some things I like, some that I feel disappointed with. This was a buddy-read with several people -- where there were also discussions among us. BECAUSE of that, this opinion is LESS of a review and more about my feelings throughout.
AND THERE WILL BE SPOILERS!.
For more coherent review, please see others :)
The things I liked ...
+ Lucas' passion to music was wonderful.
+ Alex was a wonderful, wonderful friend. I liked him a lot
+ "Boo" was a cute endearment :)
+ The poems were wonderful as well
+ The father surprised me. At first, I thought that I would dislike him. That he would be one of those typical fathers that were portrayed as rigid and un-accepting. But turned out that he was one of the characters, who progressed.
The things I disliked ...
+ Lucas was a bit too naive, which was nice at first, but he didn't really improve. Except when he was talking about music.. And on account that I might offend some people I did feel that there were too many waterworks scene here
+ The female characters did not have any kind of "evolution". The mother was just weird. At first I thought she would be the "supportive mom", but as the story progressed, she got me all riled up for ignorant to what Lucas what was going through. The tennis talk? Didn't work for me. While Trish, the best friend, annoyed me when she was being slightly pushy about matchmaking Lucas and Donovan.
+ The twist about Zach () was also weird. It was like the issue was introduced to add flaws to Zach's perfect (though slightly bland) character. But it didn't work for me. And for seventeen years olds? Really?
+ The ending was a bit rushed too ... with everything that Lucas had been through (he had shed too many tears!), I was expecting 'more' as the ending. Something that felt, uhm, WAY more uplifting, more happy, more closure.
Now about Donovan ... I know that he was portrayed as the bad guy. But at the same time, I thought that he had a whole different story behind, that would make him redeemable to me. Unfortunately, his story wasn't told. His redemption story would be something I like to read in the future
April 2, 2013
I fell in love with Madison Parker while reading Sock it to Me, Santa!. This book is exactly what you'd expect as a followup to that short story: sweet like candyfloss dipped in glittery rainbow sprinkles.
is an absolute, perfect, wish-fulfillment, high school boyfriend fantasy. He writes poetry, he wants to cuddle, he has the self-awareness of a forty year old who reads Kierkegaard, he's endlessly supportive . . . he is without flaw. After I clubbed therealistic cynical part of my brain insensate I loved this book.
is an absolute, perfect, wish-fulfillment, high school boyfriend fantasy. He writes poetry, he wants to cuddle, he has the self-awareness of a forty year old who reads Kierkegaard, he's endlessly supportive . . . he is without flaw. After I clubbed the
September 23, 2017
I haven’t reviewed this book right after reading it, and now, I can’t for the life of me remember either the storyline or the characters. It can’t be a good sign.
I remember that I enjoyed it for some mysterious reason, so 2 stars...
I remember that I enjoyed it for some mysterious reason, so 2 stars...
April 4, 2013
3.5 stars
Obviously spending more time thinking about how to review didn't help. I still have mixed feelings so I think its best I jot down a few likes and dislikes instead. More detailed and insightful reviews from Camille Ami Mandy which I agree with mostly.
What didn't work
* Lucas, I don't want to sound heartless or unsympathetic the sob-fest was too much, every bad situation had the boy crying it put me off.
* The mother came across as a bit of a nut, strange lady no wonder Lucas was a bit messed up, her advice and comments were unbelievable silly.
* The father was aloof and not wanting to deal, at least he did come around in the end and felt more real.
* Zach and that peculiar kink which didn't fit his character or age, unwelcome bombshell for me.
What did
* Alex was fun, the cool jock and a great friend, I enjoyed the texts between him and Lucas, cute a nice bond developing there.
* The music and poems were lovely and sweet.
* Mason the mouthy brother I had a lot of time for him, he loved Lucas and kept pushing him, it hurt and the outrageous behaviour I believe was good for Lucas in the end.
* Donovan the wildcard he was interesting, I think he has a lot of potential.
Not a complete failure there were some good parts, I wish it had been as wonderful as Sock it to Me, Santa. I have concluded it's probably best suited for a younger audience, rather than me.
Obviously spending more time thinking about how to review didn't help. I still have mixed feelings so I think its best I jot down a few likes and dislikes instead. More detailed and insightful reviews from Camille Ami Mandy which I agree with mostly.
What didn't work
* Lucas, I don't want to sound heartless or unsympathetic the sob-fest was too much, every bad situation had the boy crying it put me off.
* The mother came across as a bit of a nut, strange lady no wonder Lucas was a bit messed up, her advice and comments were unbelievable silly.
* The father was aloof and not wanting to deal, at least he did come around in the end and felt more real.
* Zach and that peculiar kink which didn't fit his character or age, unwelcome bombshell for me.
What did
* Alex was fun, the cool jock and a great friend, I enjoyed the texts between him and Lucas, cute a nice bond developing there.
* The music and poems were lovely and sweet.
* Mason the mouthy brother I had a lot of time for him, he loved Lucas and kept pushing him, it hurt and the outrageous behaviour I believe was good for Lucas in the end.
* Donovan the wildcard he was interesting, I think he has a lot of potential.
Not a complete failure there were some good parts, I wish it had been as wonderful as Sock it to Me, Santa. I have concluded it's probably best suited for a younger audience, rather than me.
September 4, 2016
Self acceptance and valuing oneself--It's important!
This is the cute version of high school with it's rampant apathetic to viciously hostile treatment of "other". Lucas Tate is a smart guy and brilliant pianist. There's two strikes against him. Oh yeah, and he's beautiful. Not like catalogue beautiful, but beautiful... bordering on ethereal or effeminate.
Of course, this attracts attention. Usually, when some idiot's deciding to be an epic ass for performance points. Ahhh... the inane cruelty of adolescence.
Anyway, this runs the young adult gamut of decisions about voice, body ownership, bullying, friendship, misconceptions, and assumptions. Lucas is a nice guy, and honestly deserves better than he gets. Watching him struggle and negotiate high school and his family while seeking emotional connection with others is both cringe-worthy and uplifting.
I enjoyed this story. I didn't love it like Sock it to Me, Santa! which is amazing, but it's a lovely story of staying true to oneself, regardless.
Random acts of kindness--they might be the one thing that makes someone's day, week, month or year. Try them.
This is the cute version of high school with it's rampant apathetic to viciously hostile treatment of "other". Lucas Tate is a smart guy and brilliant pianist. There's two strikes against him. Oh yeah, and he's beautiful. Not like catalogue beautiful, but beautiful... bordering on ethereal or effeminate.
Of course, this attracts attention. Usually, when some idiot's deciding to be an epic ass for performance points. Ahhh... the inane cruelty of adolescence.
Anyway, this runs the young adult gamut of decisions about voice, body ownership, bullying, friendship, misconceptions, and assumptions. Lucas is a nice guy, and honestly deserves better than he gets. Watching him struggle and negotiate high school and his family while seeking emotional connection with others is both cringe-worthy and uplifting.
I enjoyed this story. I didn't love it like Sock it to Me, Santa! which is amazing, but it's a lovely story of staying true to oneself, regardless.
Random acts of kindness--they might be the one thing that makes someone's day, week, month or year. Try them.
October 16, 2013
**3.5 stars**
This was a really cute book by new-to-me author Madison Parker. It had some things in it that I really enjoyed but a lot that also bugged me.
The good
1) I really liked the character of Alex, as unrealistic as he might be. He was so self assured and so well adjusted that I had a weee bit of trouble believing that he was real high-schooler. I still fell for him, nevertheless.
2) That passion that Lucas had for his music. I'm happy that he pursued it, despite the issues that he had with bullying at school.
3) The earnest tone of the story. It felt sweet and age appropriate.
4) The character of Trish, even though she was overly pushy at times.
The not-so-good
1) The Hallmark-movie-of-the-week characters. It felt like some of these characters were "types", which bothered me.
2) The character of Lucas. Over-the-top naive and almost childish seeming. I thought he needed way more evolution as a character.
3) The brother. He bugged me and I didn't warm to him, even in the end.
4) The rushed I-love-yous. A huge pet peeve of mine in any story. Date for more than, like a minute before you say I love you!! Come on!
What didn't bother me that other people didn't like
1) The . Why didn't this bother me? Well, I actually didn't think it was that unrealistic. I remember myself at 18. I went from
2) The character of Donovan. I think there is a lot more to him that is left to be explored. I would have liked to read more about his history, and find out who his ex is.
All in all, this was pretty enjoyable for me. I think I'll read a lot more of Madison Parker in the future.
This was a really cute book by new-to-me author Madison Parker. It had some things in it that I really enjoyed but a lot that also bugged me.
The good
1) I really liked the character of Alex, as unrealistic as he might be. He was so self assured and so well adjusted that I had a weee bit of trouble believing that he was real high-schooler. I still fell for him, nevertheless.
2) That passion that Lucas had for his music. I'm happy that he pursued it, despite the issues that he had with bullying at school.
3) The earnest tone of the story. It felt sweet and age appropriate.
4) The character of Trish, even though she was overly pushy at times.
The not-so-good
1) The Hallmark-movie-of-the-week characters. It felt like some of these characters were "types", which bothered me.
2) The character of Lucas. Over-the-top naive and almost childish seeming. I thought he needed way more evolution as a character.
3) The brother. He bugged me and I didn't warm to him, even in the end.
4) The rushed I-love-yous. A huge pet peeve of mine in any story. Date for more than, like a minute before you say I love you!! Come on!
What didn't bother me that other people didn't like
1) The . Why didn't this bother me? Well, I actually didn't think it was that unrealistic. I remember myself at 18. I went from
2) The character of Donovan. I think there is a lot more to him that is left to be explored. I would have liked to read more about his history, and find out who his ex is.
All in all, this was pretty enjoyable for me. I think I'll read a lot more of Madison Parker in the future.
April 9, 2013
3.5*
I pre-ordered this one when I saw it was from the author of Sock It To Me, Santa.
That is still one of my favorites, one of the cutest most adorable YA story ever. I had high hopes for this story, and in a lot of ways it was a wonderful, sweet and poignant tale of Lucas, a young gifted musician. One of the things that came through loud and clear was Lucas's love for music, that was a great part of the book for me.
I pre-ordered this one when I saw it was from the author of Sock It To Me, Santa.
That is still one of my favorites, one of the cutest most adorable YA story ever. I had high hopes for this story, and in a lot of ways it was a wonderful, sweet and poignant tale of Lucas, a young gifted musician. One of the things that came through loud and clear was Lucas's love for music, that was a great part of the book for me.
April 29, 2013
I surprise even myself how I’m so easily sucked into the M/M YA-formula story: bullied geek finds himself the attraction of the closeted jock, sexual exploration, angst & hurt feelings, sweet making up, and HEA until graduation (and sometimes beyond). I love it. I could read book after book of this story as long as the characters are likable.
No surprises here as far as the formula goes. So, duh, I’m going to like it. I just don't love it.
Jamie, our MC, is almost TOO naïve. The first few times he was moved to tears, I felt the emotion. But by the 100th time, I was rolling my eyes. (Me. Heartless biotch)
Donovan - dude…what the heck’s HIS problem? What an epic jerk! Did we find out exactly why he was such as ass?
Jamie’s mother was despicable.
His father 180’d almost too easily.
His brother is your classic little brat.
The best friend, meh, whatever…I don’t even remember her name.
Alex, almost TOO well-adjusted for a popular high school kid.
David – Ummm…I know I’m not the only one who thinks it’s weird that a high school kid is into BDSM, right?
The only real standout for me was Zach. I love that kid. What a sweetie.
I heart Madison Parker and loved “Sock it to me, Santa”. It’s a decent follow-up from her. Good, not great. Entertaining, but not a standout.
If you have >100 books on your TBR and >10 of those are YA, you can pass on this one.
April 9, 2013
”If you don’t play with your heart, no one will truly listen.”
I want to pepper this book with kisses! Madison Parker melted my cold, cold heart once again into a big ‘ole puddle of love! :D
Put yourself out there. Open up. Talk. Share. Fall in love. Soooo much easier said than done. Especially for Lucas Tate, an introverted, sensitive, effeminate, gay 17 year old boy trying to find friends, love, and his voice in the world. A beautiful, sweet, teary-eyed cutie that will have you cheering, hoping, and choking back tears from pretty much page one! My kindle went all blurry on me more than once. The boy stole my heart! With tension and loneliness at home and school, Lucas has enough to handle. But throw in a talent show, bullying, poetry, sex, boys, and more boys well…you get one adorable journey through life, love, and high school with Cyndi Lauper and a HUGE heart setting the beat.
This book is chock full of characters to cherish and hold close to your heart. Every single character was filled with love, magic, flaws, and fumbles. Zach, Alex, Mason, Trish, Lucas, and Donovan all tugged on my heart strings. Jerks, jocks, friends, and lovers. They are all in here! :) What’s the difference between kissing someone you like and respect and one you don’t? Tingles, blushes, heat, and toe curls of course! Lucas learns the stomach flipping differences and so much more along the way. Warmth and love fill this journey with inspiration and support. I just want to hug and squeeze this book to bits! Surprisingly, I didn’t want to shelter or protect Lucas in a hug though. Every so often you might hear me utter the—“I want to put him in my pocket and keep him safe” line. Haha… But with Lucas, I wanted him to learn how to stand up for himself. Get out there. You can do it! Sorry. I’m rambling now. It is so hard to break down this plot without spoiling, so I’ll just shout out some love and get the hell off the page.
Alex, Alex, Alex!
Mason—Look carefully at this boy. He was my favorite character. Layers of love and bitterness. Under all that brotherly bluster, lives a very overprotective heart.
Dad--- You just made my list.
For me, the true magical ingredient here was the music. Beats, chords, notes, and sounds that brought Lucas to life on the page. The music didn’t jump or pulse under the words, but slowly inhaled, exhaled, and guided me through Lucas’ emotions and world. I felt like Lucas’ piano playing was his way of communicating and reaching out to the people around him. His true self came out so clearly when he played. In the music room, sitting in front of the keys, surrounded by music—I could feel Lucas’ smile and sway. Music played a huge part of this story because it was such a big part of Lucas. The music held his heart and I could feel it thump, thump, thumping away on every page and move he made.
A true heartfelt gem brimming with inspiration, heart flutters, kisses, tears, snark, sex, and sweetness!
I can’t stop smiling! A story that will have you hugging and holding on to your friends and family with all your heart.
“You with the sad eyes
Don’t be discouraged
Oh, I realize
It’s hard to take courage
In a world full of people
You can lose sight of it all
And the darkness inside you
Can make you feel so small
But I see your true colors
Shining through
I see your true colors
And that’s why I love you
So don’t be afraid to let them show
Your true colors
True colors
Are beautiful like a rainbow.”
--True Colors by Cyndi Lauper
April 3, 2013
I did not particularly enjoy reading this.
The three stars are accorded because it wasn't terrible and there were a few good parts. But overall, I felt this book had no soul, no pulse, no heart. It was written. There were words. But there was nothing that enlivened the paragraphs and chapters. Sock it to Me, Santa! was a story that positively thrummed with passion and feeling, with soul and electricity. This one was technically proficient but was android-like.
Aside from the soul-lessness, I did not like the characters. I don't think Parker knew her characters either. It's like in Fiction workshops where professors tell and ask their students to be sure they know, "what does your character eat for breakfast, what is she afraid of most, how does he part his hair, what makes him angry, what does she do when she's in love, what physical imperfections does he have, what model car does he drive, what is her favourite outfit, what is his favourite colour?"
These may seem like really random details that are not at all pertinent to a murder plot for example. But without these details, known to the author at least, the character suffers from not being three dimensional, suffers from never taking on a full persona. Characters should wake the writer up at night and relate his or her story to said writer. They should not be penned as they were in this book where they read like caricatures.
I won't give details for fear of spoiling anyone's upcoming reading experience, but the sensitive soul, picked upon, put upon, low esteem, will be redeemed MC; the Annie John mom; the snarky, snazzy evil queen gay; frat-ish, unsupportive bro brother; distant daddy; theatrical girl bestie etc are all prototypes and Parker does nothing to elevate them beyond the requirements for the typical m/m YA story trope.
The love story itself is generic as well.
And the ABC Family ending was ridiculous.
*********************
What I did like:
The poems were lovely :-)
The relationship between Donovan and Lucas was true to adolescent mistakes.
The families were shitty. It would take too long and too much to explain why I consider this a positive.
There weren't egregious grammatical mistakes although the author needs to freshen up a bit on the past participle tense.
****************
*sigh* Parker's little self-published and free book was excellent! This was published and required it be paid for and it was decidedly not excellent.
The three stars are accorded because it wasn't terrible and there were a few good parts. But overall, I felt this book had no soul, no pulse, no heart. It was written. There were words. But there was nothing that enlivened the paragraphs and chapters. Sock it to Me, Santa! was a story that positively thrummed with passion and feeling, with soul and electricity. This one was technically proficient but was android-like.
Aside from the soul-lessness, I did not like the characters. I don't think Parker knew her characters either. It's like in Fiction workshops where professors tell and ask their students to be sure they know, "what does your character eat for breakfast, what is she afraid of most, how does he part his hair, what makes him angry, what does she do when she's in love, what physical imperfections does he have, what model car does he drive, what is her favourite outfit, what is his favourite colour?"
These may seem like really random details that are not at all pertinent to a murder plot for example. But without these details, known to the author at least, the character suffers from not being three dimensional, suffers from never taking on a full persona. Characters should wake the writer up at night and relate his or her story to said writer. They should not be penned as they were in this book where they read like caricatures.
I won't give details for fear of spoiling anyone's upcoming reading experience, but the sensitive soul, picked upon, put upon, low esteem, will be redeemed MC; the Annie John mom; the snarky, snazzy evil queen gay; frat-ish, unsupportive bro brother; distant daddy; theatrical girl bestie etc are all prototypes and Parker does nothing to elevate them beyond the requirements for the typical m/m YA story trope.
The love story itself is generic as well.
And the ABC Family ending was ridiculous.
*********************
What I did like:
The poems were lovely :-)
The relationship between Donovan and Lucas was true to adolescent mistakes.
The families were shitty. It would take too long and too much to explain why I consider this a positive.
There weren't egregious grammatical mistakes although the author needs to freshen up a bit on the past participle tense.
****************
*sigh* Parker's little self-published and free book was excellent! This was published and required it be paid for and it was decidedly not excellent.
March 21, 2013
If you had a chance to read Madison Parker's debut short story, "Sock It to Me, Santa," you already have an inkling of this burgeoning author's talent. Play Me, I'm Yours is her first full-length novel, and it is sure to be immensely successful.
Parker has a gift, not only when it comes to word crafting, but also with characterization. She's able to bring her characters to life in a realistic, memorable way that peels back layer after layer of their complex personalities. She avoids the pitfalls so many authors fall into of over dramatizing her villains and lionizing her protagonists. Instead, they are real people--flawed and complicated. You love them and hate them and sometimes want to smack them upside the head. But when it comes to her main character Lucas, you're going to want to pull him into an embrace and squeeze him so tightly you'll never let go.
Lucas is a doll. His tender heart and sensitivity make him the most sympathetic of characters, but he is also funny and talented. On every page he makes me smile and laugh and (several times) cry. I wanted him to have a protector, a hero, a knight in shining armor--not because Lucas appeared pathetic and weak, but because I loved him so very much.
And the love interest Zach...what can I say? Magnificently flawed. Every bit a man but 100% boy. Irritatingly sexy. Ridiculously romantic. I could go on, but the point is that he was absolutely perfect for Lucas.
Setting aside the dynamic of the romantic relationship, I think this young adult story is so amazing because of the realistic portrayal of Lucas's family life. There were times I really wanted to grab hold of his mother's shoulders and shake her. She did things that were utterly stupid, but don't all parents? Don't parents do things like this when they love their children...sometimes too much?
And I cringed every time Lucas's brother Mason made an appearance. He was so embarrassed by his sensitive, effeminate older brother. This was SO real to me. Seriously, siblings are embarrassed of each other all the time, even when there's nothing to be embarrassed about, and I totally get why Mason was such a jerk about having a gay brother. But the arc of this character was just beautiful. We saw Mason mature right before our eyes.
The cornerstone of this plot, though, in my humble opinion, is the relationship that Lucas has with his father. Finally a true-to-life YA GLBT novel that portrays a loving father/son relationship! I'm so thrilled that Parker did not succumb to the distant-father/dominant-mother stereotype. It was beautiful the way Lucas and his father connected, especially at the end of the story.
I share a connection with this author, so perhaps some will question my objectivity here. But I want to stress that every word of this review is sincere, and my feelings about the story are in no way related to my feelings for Madison Parker. The writing was spectacular, but more than that, the story struck a chord in my heart.
I honestly think this is THE book of the year--award worthy. Five stars PLUS.
Parker has a gift, not only when it comes to word crafting, but also with characterization. She's able to bring her characters to life in a realistic, memorable way that peels back layer after layer of their complex personalities. She avoids the pitfalls so many authors fall into of over dramatizing her villains and lionizing her protagonists. Instead, they are real people--flawed and complicated. You love them and hate them and sometimes want to smack them upside the head. But when it comes to her main character Lucas, you're going to want to pull him into an embrace and squeeze him so tightly you'll never let go.
Lucas is a doll. His tender heart and sensitivity make him the most sympathetic of characters, but he is also funny and talented. On every page he makes me smile and laugh and (several times) cry. I wanted him to have a protector, a hero, a knight in shining armor--not because Lucas appeared pathetic and weak, but because I loved him so very much.
And the love interest Zach...what can I say? Magnificently flawed. Every bit a man but 100% boy. Irritatingly sexy. Ridiculously romantic. I could go on, but the point is that he was absolutely perfect for Lucas.
Setting aside the dynamic of the romantic relationship, I think this young adult story is so amazing because of the realistic portrayal of Lucas's family life. There were times I really wanted to grab hold of his mother's shoulders and shake her. She did things that were utterly stupid, but don't all parents? Don't parents do things like this when they love their children...sometimes too much?
And I cringed every time Lucas's brother Mason made an appearance. He was so embarrassed by his sensitive, effeminate older brother. This was SO real to me. Seriously, siblings are embarrassed of each other all the time, even when there's nothing to be embarrassed about, and I totally get why Mason was such a jerk about having a gay brother. But the arc of this character was just beautiful. We saw Mason mature right before our eyes.
The cornerstone of this plot, though, in my humble opinion, is the relationship that Lucas has with his father. Finally a true-to-life YA GLBT novel that portrays a loving father/son relationship! I'm so thrilled that Parker did not succumb to the distant-father/dominant-mother stereotype. It was beautiful the way Lucas and his father connected, especially at the end of the story.
I share a connection with this author, so perhaps some will question my objectivity here. But I want to stress that every word of this review is sincere, and my feelings about the story are in no way related to my feelings for Madison Parker. The writing was spectacular, but more than that, the story struck a chord in my heart.
I honestly think this is THE book of the year--award worthy. Five stars PLUS.
April 5, 2013
While there were parts of this story and characters that I enjoyed it felt in many ways like an afterschool special and I was being taught a lesson on bullying, on parenting, on behaviour.
I didn't really feel connected to the characters in a way that their story moved me beyond anything more than a clinical observational way but it was a fine parable.
One thing that seemed square peggy:
I didn't really feel connected to the characters in a way that their story moved me beyond anything more than a clinical observational way but it was a fine parable.
One thing that seemed square peggy:
January 29, 2015
I am just the opposite of an original person, so I read this book all thrilled after the sweet experience with Sock it to Me, Santa!. I was really eager to see this author displaying all her talent in a novel-length story and YA is a genre I certainly don’t despise.
Yeah, it was nice in the beginning, it was romantic in one chapter, and then it all went wrong. It was promising but then it lost heart and I feel disappointment, first at the mistake of reading this after the great Santa short, second for continuing reading it after the zenith.
Don’t get me wrong, I had a good time, but comparisons suck, and that’s a fact.
First I’ll talk about people, there are a lot, so I will use numbers:
1. Lucas. My great issue in this book. He cries when he is sad, he cries when his brother laughs at him, he cries when people laughs at him… and then he cries when he is sad, he cries when his brother laughs at him, he cries when people laughs at him… and then he cries when he is sad, he cries when his brother laughs at him, he cries when people laughs at him…
Have you noticed the repetition? I have. Do you think he’s a pain? I do.
And after all of that he cries and does nothing, he doesn’t get angry with his brother, he doesn’t get angry with people at school, he doesn’t shout his mother, he doesn’t confront his father… and they really need some fury from his part, because they are all the time trespassing on his territory and in the end the last straw makes you react but he doesn’t! I’m not saying he should burn their cars or kill their dog but something! A change! A human reaction! He’s such a chump he exasperated me.
Oh my, he can’t get on his own feet and he was tiring. I’m very concerned about bullying and respect but I like my MC with some kind of personality, and he had none. It’s not necessary to draw self-confident and invincible people for me to fall in love with them. Just the opposite, I love scarred people, flawed people, people who are trying to find their place in the world. Yes, I love imperfect people in my books. But I can’t stand wimps and here I had them in spades.
2. The father. In the beginning he seemed he looked down on his son’s sexuality, and Lucas doesn’t say anything. Then I really liked him (he's the best character in the book) but the damage was done.
3. The mother. She’s a hippy I can’t stand. Your son is being bullied and the best advice you have is to try to make friends instead of keeping for himself? Seriously? You know someone tried to put your son in the locker and you only answer “Well, at least he didn’t hit you”? The world is fucked-up, guys. But that’s not the only thing, when Lucas has a boyfriend at last she outdid herself and said the following message “You listen and ask about everything he likes, and do everything he wants”. Yeah, I want a mother like that one.
4. The brother. He’s the dog who barks but doesn’t bite. He is all the time picking on him and in the end he is the lovely brother who bites at everyone who wants to hurt him. He didn’t atone for his behavior, not for me, at least.
5. Trish is a shallow creature. She is all the while, Boo here, Boo there, oh Boo I’m sorry, Boo prepare my number, oh Boo let’s go out with Donovan. Why? Because he’s gay, enough reason, yeah? She’s focused on Zach because he’s hot as hell, but she doesn’t do jocks. Huh. Then she ends up with a jock. Why? Because of the way this jock treats Lucas while eaves-drooping to their conversation and their dance together. She may cry for that. Bullshit.
6. Alex. He is the super perfect jock and straight man who loves gays and sets an example for the rest who considered him a popular guy. Huh, did you see me rolling my eyes? No? Read again.
7. Donovan. I don’t like him, but that’s because it’s very influenced by the author’s writing. He is portrayed as a bitch, and sometimes it felt exaggerated, like a caricature. And please, how can Lucas stand being treated like this? Oh, yeah, I remember, look point 3.
8. The swim team. Zach is gay and his mates don’t know it, and when they are aware of this fact there is only a pair of bad sentences and that’s it. No further conflict. I find it hard to believe. I don’t want to be a cynic about the human nature but when dialogues begin like this there is no immediate acceptance by all the participants.
From here on I will use number for facts and scenes that were ridiculous.
1. Zach is 18 years old and he likes . Huh. I don’t say there are not boys his age who are that confident about their sexual preferences… but really? This felt very out of place, IMO.
2. Why there are so many “Loves you” in so few pages at the end? They left me an aftertaste and not a good one. “Love you” is precious, don’t waste it. It loses its significance. Please.
3. The Big Misunderstanding, related with point 1. Dumping the boyfriend before talking first. How typical. *Sighs*. (At least there is no kidnapping, thank God!) And then running to the loved one after one long night crying on the pillow. Yeah.
4. The reason why Zach fell in love with Lucas in the first place, even before they even talked. It’s stupid and empty and pretentious. I can live without music, at the dismay of music lovers. My most recent dialogue with one of those was something like this:
“You don’t listen to music? Really? I can’t do that! I listen to every kind.”
“Well, I like music just fine, but I can live without it, no big deal”.
“What singers and groups do you like?”
“Oh, I like Queen.”
“Huh, that one? Pfff.”
“How can you say that about Freddie Mercury’s voice? It’s a crime!”
“I don’t like that one. What else?”
“Ah, I love Cat Stevens.”
“Who?”
Yes, so maybe I have a heart of stone, but I really rolled my eyes at that scene. You can feel attracted to someone just by his appearance, ok, but actually falling in love when a person talks in public about Beethoven? Zach is not a music freak, so I don’t understand those feelings of his in just this mere nosing.
No, it didn’t wowed me.
April 2, 2013
Oh the drama of teen love and peer pressure! That's what this sweet romance is all about... Cast your mind back and remember the hopes and fears of being accepted at school. Were you popular? Leader or follower? Bully or bullied? Did the popular kids laugh at you behind your back and humiliate you in front of your peers because you were different? Did you sigh from afar when a 'certain person' even so much as brushed past you in the corridor and did you spend hours imagining that person suddenly noticing you out of the blue - that first kiss you were going to share, and OMG you were going to have his babies and live happily ever after but then ..... you see him and he's suddenly going steady with miss popular and you catch them snogging behind the bikes sheds and you're heartbroken because you'll never love ever again .... *sigh*
That is this story but add in the fact that Lucas is only 17 ( so young) and emotional , gay, effeminate, gentle natured and much misunderstood and coping with a family (complete with a snotty, bratty 15 year old brother Mason, who you can't help but sort of love) who bless them are trying to come to terms with Lucas' sexual orientation in the best way they can, which is not always the right way, leading to some sweet awkward moments with dad and some exasperating eye rolling moments with mum but rest assured there is acceptance, love and humour alongside those moments. I laughed a lot even though poor Lucas was in cringe mode during most of them! I adored Lucas and spent most of the book desperately wanting to cuddle him. :)
Then you get to the crux of the story and the romance. This was the part I really loved. Lucas is finally befriended by Trish who has a caustic gay friend Donovan, then he meets Alex whose straight but they have a 'moment' and finally Zach, gorgeous, keeps himself to himself and who's worshipped from afar on the swim team... All these guys suddenly impact on Lucas' life and so the story takes off into the realms of teen romance and who is finally going to become the love of Lucas' life?
There are jealousies, misunderstandings, kisses, humiliations, quite steamy sex, moments of -I really want to shake Lucas and slap certain other people silly - but overall it worked just fine for me. I admit if you dissect it too much there are niggles and some characters leave you feeling there is more to explain .
So wrapping it all up. In my heart this was a 5* read for the pure enjoyment I personally got but if I have to be objective then I'm going to a 4* rating to compensate for the odd niggle that I think most readers will pick up on and that in truth are valid.
I really like Madison's style so I'll definitely be auto buying her books from now on... Enjoyed buddy reading with my friends, it was a blast! :)
That is this story but add in the fact that Lucas is only 17 ( so young) and emotional , gay, effeminate, gentle natured and much misunderstood and coping with a family (complete with a snotty, bratty 15 year old brother Mason, who you can't help but sort of love) who bless them are trying to come to terms with Lucas' sexual orientation in the best way they can, which is not always the right way, leading to some sweet awkward moments with dad and some exasperating eye rolling moments with mum but rest assured there is acceptance, love and humour alongside those moments. I laughed a lot even though poor Lucas was in cringe mode during most of them! I adored Lucas and spent most of the book desperately wanting to cuddle him. :)
Then you get to the crux of the story and the romance. This was the part I really loved. Lucas is finally befriended by Trish who has a caustic gay friend Donovan, then he meets Alex whose straight but they have a 'moment' and finally Zach, gorgeous, keeps himself to himself and who's worshipped from afar on the swim team... All these guys suddenly impact on Lucas' life and so the story takes off into the realms of teen romance and who is finally going to become the love of Lucas' life?
There are jealousies, misunderstandings, kisses, humiliations, quite steamy sex, moments of -I really want to shake Lucas and slap certain other people silly - but overall it worked just fine for me. I admit if you dissect it too much there are niggles and some characters leave you feeling there is more to explain .
So wrapping it all up. In my heart this was a 5* read for the pure enjoyment I personally got but if I have to be objective then I'm going to a 4* rating to compensate for the odd niggle that I think most readers will pick up on and that in truth are valid.
I really like Madison's style so I'll definitely be auto buying her books from now on... Enjoyed buddy reading with my friends, it was a blast! :)
September 14, 2022
4 Stars
So many moments in this book made me want to slap a bitch, yet I couldn’t put the damn thing down! At 8pm, I was all, “what new book shall I briefly start before bed tonight?”… At 1am I finally shut my Kindle down, more from exhaustion than me actually wanting to put the book down.
So let’s say I loved this book. So much so, that I almost said to hell with it and gave it a 5 star rating. The reason I decided against this was simply because, as I said, there were so many moments in this story that enraged me. I love when books get me so worked up, good or bad, that my emotions explode all over the place, but I don’t like being grumpy in the middle of the night. But I digress.
I liked the lead character Lucas. My heart ached for this guy and constantly protested all the assholish bullshit he was subjected to by his peers and even his thoughtless family. He came across as extremely naïve and sweetsy. At times this made me want to cuddle him, but at other times I just wanted to yell at him to grow a pair and fight back (at least verbally). He was a bit too passive for me, but I still cared for him immensely; I wanted him to feel safe, loved and happy – I can’t wish for much more than that in my book characters.
When it comes to Lucas’ family, I just didn't like them. Mason, Lucas’ brother, was a little prick towards Lucas on more than one occasion, and even though his reasons were semi-understandable and he kind of redeemed himself by the end, he still annoyed the shit out of me in general. Their parents were hopeless, too. The mum was an airy-fairy twit, meddling in shit she shouldn’t be meddling in, and the dad was an absolute doormat of a character. Basically, I didn’t care for Lucas’ family at all, even though they were never outwardly horrible (the way you often find unsupportive families in this kind of coming of age/coming out stories).
On the positive side of things, I absolutely adored Zach, Alex and Trish.
Zach, Lucas’ main love interest, was such a sweetheart (his poetry was swoon-worthy, to say the least). If I could ask for one change in this story it would be that Zach got more page time! He was rarely in the story until after the 50% mark, but I guess that was good because it keep the focus on Lucas as a character and the experiences and growth he was going through, instead of solely focusing on a romantic aspect.
Alex, the straight jock and champion defender of all things Lucas, was a legend of a character. He made a stand against bullies and defied stereotypes, simply because he could, knowing full well that people would judge him, but he did it anyway because it was the right thing to do.
Trish was the quintessential female bestie, befriending Lucas and supporting him in all things. I really liked her and her sassy attitude. I also really loved the side-romance between her and Alex (I’d totally read a full story about them).
Last but certainly not least, there was Donovan. This guy did my head in. Some reviews have mentioned him as a possibly redeemable character, but quite frankly, I just don’t care. He was an asshole and an instigator, providing this story with a lot of entertaining drama, however infuriating. I simply loathed this guy, with his “make them all as miserable as me” attitude. He can go eat a bag of dicks for all I care (although, he may see that as more of a reward than a punishment).
Ultimately, a really addictive and thoroughly entertaining YA read, one that I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
So many moments in this book made me want to slap a bitch, yet I couldn’t put the damn thing down! At 8pm, I was all, “what new book shall I briefly start before bed tonight?”… At 1am I finally shut my Kindle down, more from exhaustion than me actually wanting to put the book down.
So let’s say I loved this book. So much so, that I almost said to hell with it and gave it a 5 star rating. The reason I decided against this was simply because, as I said, there were so many moments in this story that enraged me. I love when books get me so worked up, good or bad, that my emotions explode all over the place, but I don’t like being grumpy in the middle of the night. But I digress.
I liked the lead character Lucas. My heart ached for this guy and constantly protested all the assholish bullshit he was subjected to by his peers and even his thoughtless family. He came across as extremely naïve and sweetsy. At times this made me want to cuddle him, but at other times I just wanted to yell at him to grow a pair and fight back (at least verbally). He was a bit too passive for me, but I still cared for him immensely; I wanted him to feel safe, loved and happy – I can’t wish for much more than that in my book characters.
When it comes to Lucas’ family, I just didn't like them. Mason, Lucas’ brother, was a little prick towards Lucas on more than one occasion, and even though his reasons were semi-understandable and he kind of redeemed himself by the end, he still annoyed the shit out of me in general. Their parents were hopeless, too. The mum was an airy-fairy twit, meddling in shit she shouldn’t be meddling in, and the dad was an absolute doormat of a character. Basically, I didn’t care for Lucas’ family at all, even though they were never outwardly horrible (the way you often find unsupportive families in this kind of coming of age/coming out stories).
On the positive side of things, I absolutely adored Zach, Alex and Trish.
Zach, Lucas’ main love interest, was such a sweetheart (his poetry was swoon-worthy, to say the least). If I could ask for one change in this story it would be that Zach got more page time! He was rarely in the story until after the 50% mark, but I guess that was good because it keep the focus on Lucas as a character and the experiences and growth he was going through, instead of solely focusing on a romantic aspect.
Alex, the straight jock and champion defender of all things Lucas, was a legend of a character. He made a stand against bullies and defied stereotypes, simply because he could, knowing full well that people would judge him, but he did it anyway because it was the right thing to do.
Trish was the quintessential female bestie, befriending Lucas and supporting him in all things. I really liked her and her sassy attitude. I also really loved the side-romance between her and Alex (I’d totally read a full story about them).
Last but certainly not least, there was Donovan. This guy did my head in. Some reviews have mentioned him as a possibly redeemable character, but quite frankly, I just don’t care. He was an asshole and an instigator, providing this story with a lot of entertaining drama, however infuriating. I simply loathed this guy, with his “make them all as miserable as me” attitude. He can go eat a bag of dicks for all I care (although, he may see that as more of a reward than a punishment).
Ultimately, a really addictive and thoroughly entertaining YA read, one that I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
July 30, 2016
Play Me, I'm Yours is the coming of age story of Lucas. Lucas, whom is bullied at school for his love of the piano and being a gay teenager. To make things harder- things at home aren't much better. His father and brother aren't much of a source of support. His mother, whom was at one point his best friend, is still there for him but not like before. Along his journey he will meet a great cast of supporting characters but his journey will not be easy. It's a story about love, acceptance, family, and friends.
Madison Parker has written an exceptional story so important in today's society. Everyday we hear stories about kids being bullied and gay children simply wanting to be loved and accepted uncondiotionally. Although this is a YA book, the author doesn't shy away from the topic of sex. Ms. Parker's voice is heard loud and clear in this book. This is a story that will make you cry but in the end will leave you with a warm feeling. I never wanted this story to end. I fell in love with the characters- by the end they felt more like friends than just characters in a book.
This is an easy 5+ star rating. I can't wait to read more from this author. If you've not read it- do yourself a favor and read it.
April 2, 2013
A very enjoyable read. Not quite a 4 star but maybe a little more than 3.5 lol.
I admit to having a few niggles with this book. The amount of crying Lucas does seemed a bit over the top, and mum came across as living in cloud cookoo land, and the whole
but there were plenty of believable parts too, Mason, who as a 15 year old seemed the most real, and dad for all his faults, was believable, although I really didn't like how neither of Lucas' parents dealt with Mason's out burts and name calling.
The mix of characters in this book were all interesting and entertaining, and at least one needs his own story lol.
Overall if you like YA then I think you will enjoy this book.
For a perfect review read Mandy*reads obsessively*
I admit to having a few niggles with this book. The amount of crying Lucas does seemed a bit over the top, and mum came across as living in cloud cookoo land, and the whole
but there were plenty of believable parts too, Mason, who as a 15 year old seemed the most real, and dad for all his faults, was believable, although I really didn't like how neither of Lucas' parents dealt with Mason's out burts and name calling.
The mix of characters in this book were all interesting and entertaining, and at least one needs his own story lol.
Overall if you like YA then I think you will enjoy this book.
For a perfect review read Mandy*reads obsessively*
May 24, 2015
Having recently read (and loved) Sock it to Me, Santa! I was excited when I noticed another Madison Parker book on the Best M/M Contemporary Books of 2013 list. I’m a huge fan of M/M “Coming of Age” stories so I decided to give it a go.
This book pulled at my heartstrings from the very beginning. Lucas, I just want to wrap my arms around you and give you a great big hug. The teasing. The harassing. The bullying. It just made my heart hurt. Seriously. I have 3 boys who will all be going to high school in the next few years and the thought of any of them being subjected to what Lucas went through, it makes me want to cry. Teenagers can be so cruel.
I thought Lucas and Zach were very sweet together. I loved how Alex befriended Lucas, looked out for him, and tried to help him stand up for himself. My favorite scene was the dinner before the talent show when Mason revealed all of Lucas’s quirks. Even though Mason was a jerk for most of the book, he redeemed himself in the end. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more from Madison Parker!
This book pulled at my heartstrings from the very beginning. Lucas, I just want to wrap my arms around you and give you a great big hug. The teasing. The harassing. The bullying. It just made my heart hurt. Seriously. I have 3 boys who will all be going to high school in the next few years and the thought of any of them being subjected to what Lucas went through, it makes me want to cry. Teenagers can be so cruel.
I thought Lucas and Zach were very sweet together. I loved how Alex befriended Lucas, looked out for him, and tried to help him stand up for himself. My favorite scene was the dinner before the talent show when Mason revealed all of Lucas’s quirks. Even though Mason was a jerk for most of the book, he redeemed himself in the end. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more from Madison Parker!
April 2, 2013
3.5 stars
I had troubles in the beginning getting into the story. It was a bit too over the top/repetitive with all the insecurities. But after sharing my frustration with the buddies, slowly it got better. After 20%, I think, it was smooth reading with no big ups and downs. In the end I liked it. It got a nice happy ending.
I had troubles in the beginning getting into the story. It was a bit too over the top/repetitive with all the insecurities. But after sharing my frustration with the buddies, slowly it got better. After 20%, I think, it was smooth reading with no big ups and downs. In the end I liked it. It got a nice happy ending.
December 25, 2014
Buddy Read with my GR gang, April 1, 2013
After reading 'Sock it to Me, Santa!' a couple of days ago I couldn't wait to read this story. It's about 17 years old Lucas, who's suffering because of his appearance and sensitive nature. His schoolmates ignore or tease him, his younger brother Mason seems to be ashamed of him, his mother treats him like a little child and his father doesn't understand his delicate nature at all. Will he find the courage to stand his ground and finally meet the boy who's worth to be loved?
I suffered with twinky underdog Lucas and his problems with schoolmates and his family. Lucas cries and cries and cries. He cries at any given opportunity. At some point I couldn't stand it anymore and I wished he finally would grow a pair of balls and act like a grown-up and not like a baby anymore.
His mom, as lovely as she is, doesn't help his growing-up in the slightest. Dear Mama Tate you don't help your boy if you wrap him up in cotton wool! The woman is sweet but so annoying!
Mason is a tough cookie! First I had my problems with his behavior towards Lucas but after some time I realised that he is the only one who gives baby Lucas some wake-up calls. He is the only one in his family who tries to pull Lucas out of his shell with his provocativeness.
There are a few supporting characters I like a lot. Trish and Alex turn out to be great friends. I hoped that Alex is the one and only boy for Lucas (a gay for you development would have been a nice change) but eventually it's Zach who owns Lucas' heart and it's an okay ending that way.
What I didn't like at all – and that's the reason I can't give the story more than 3,5 stars – is that needless BDSM thing. In my opinion it doesn't fit in the story at all. Lucas offer to spank Zach is plain and simple ridiculous.
Overall it's a nice YA novel. So if you like to read a growing-up story then I think you will enjoy this book.
May 5, 2013
This was really sweet, but for my tastes, too sweet. And I'm probably heartless but Lucas cried enough in this book he reminded me of that Alice in Wonderland scene where she cries so much she floods everything. Donovan had potential to be interesting and multi-layered, but I didn't feel he was developed enough. I didn't mind the
I liked Alex and Tricia fine, but they felt a little like place-holders than fully realized characters. The parents' relationship with Lucas could have been really explored, and I felt the author scratched the surface, but I wasn't particularily invested. I'm glad Lucas had someone like Zach.
Overall, it's a cute book and a very quick read. I didn't enjoy it as much as the author's first work, but I might be interested in reading Donovan's story, if she was inclined to write it.
I liked Alex and Tricia fine, but they felt a little like place-holders than fully realized characters. The parents' relationship with Lucas could have been really explored, and I felt the author scratched the surface, but I wasn't particularily invested. I'm glad Lucas had someone like Zach.
Overall, it's a cute book and a very quick read. I didn't enjoy it as much as the author's first work, but I might be interested in reading Donovan's story, if she was inclined to write it.
April 2, 2013
3.25 stars I couldn't wait to read this book after reading Sock it to Me, Santa! last year. Overall, this was an enjoyable read. It started out with an emotional bang with Lucas playing Cyndi Lauper on the piano. I wanted to hug him. I had quite a few niggles mainly with Lucas' mother, she was really strange and I didn't like her advice at all. I wish that part was fleshed out a bit more to explain her behavior. I didn't like Donovan but I felt there was more to his story, maybe that's for a sequel. I loved Lucas' father and Mason even though he was irritating but I grew to love him after he opened up to Lucas during the car ride. . I was disappointed that the bullying Lucas experienced on Facebook and in class wasn't addressed by the teachers and school officials. I agree with Mandy's review I would have loved to see more growth and self-confidence for Lucas.
April 3, 2013
I *adored* this book! It's going into my top ten. The character of Lucas was colorful, naive and sweet. I loved the secondary characters of Alex and Trish. Stories that deal with out gay kids in high school are often full of bullying and hate. I really liked how the author certainly had that in here, but also gave Lucas friends who supported him just as he was. It never felt overly painful. The plotline of the three romantic interests kept me glued to the page. I started this book in the evening, read til 2am and then finished it in the morning. I could NOT put it down. I also liked how the book, though YA, did not shy away from sexual issues.
Great job, Madison Parker! I look forward to reading much more of your work in the future.
Great job, Madison Parker! I look forward to reading much more of your work in the future.
April 28, 2020
I think I would have liked this more had their been fewer PsOV. Too many side characters' input and it muddied the story.
And I think I legit hated Lucas' mom. All that stuff about catering to someone else's needs, pandering to their interests, liking what they like (or at least pretending) in order to make friends or keep a boyfriend? Yeah, some of it was even said in front of her husband if I were him I'd be seriously reconsidering my choices. (Also wondering if she even actually liked me, TBH). But I ended up LOVING his dad. That sex-talk was so awkward but you could tell he was trying.
And I think I legit hated Lucas' mom. All that stuff about catering to someone else's needs, pandering to their interests, liking what they like (or at least pretending) in order to make friends or keep a boyfriend? Yeah, some of it was even said in front of her husband if I were him I'd be seriously reconsidering my choices. (Also wondering if she even actually liked me, TBH). But I ended up LOVING his dad. That sex-talk was so awkward but you could tell he was trying.
Read
April 21, 2013
*BONUS SCENE*
— hoping for an epilogue? Come find out how Lucas, Zach, Alex, Trish, and Donovan are celebrating the Day of Silence at their school.
If you'd like to know more about what inspired me to tell this story, please join me on my blog tour as I share my thoughts about the themes, characters, and music found in the novel.
TOUR SCHEDULE
Highlights include Behind the Music, Have You Hugged Your Introvert Today?, Bullies Are So Gay, Gay/Straight Male Friendships, YouTube University, Cyberbullying, Gay Siblings, Kissing Games, and Effeminate Role Models.
If you'd like to know more about what inspired me to tell this story, please join me on my blog tour as I share my thoughts about the themes, characters, and music found in the novel.
TOUR SCHEDULE
Highlights include Behind the Music, Have You Hugged Your Introvert Today?, Bullies Are So Gay, Gay/Straight Male Friendships, YouTube University, Cyberbullying, Gay Siblings, Kissing Games, and Effeminate Role Models.
May 8, 2013
I adored this book. Then again I might be a bit biased because I've been in a funk and this is one of the few stories I was able to finish in one sitting without moving on to another book. It had a lot of flaws but I think the story overall is beautiful and sweet.
I liked Lucas because of his passion for the piano. I loved that just because he was picked on for how he acted or looked, he never gave up on playing the piano so it was awesome to see bits and pieces of him playing it throughout the story. To be honest, this story broke my heart a bit. Lucas is very naive and gullible. He lets a lot of people walk all over him and then gets upset over it. It's very sad and I felt for him but at the same time, he needed to grow a backbone and say enough is enough already.
I think the biggest flaw of this story, though, is that the characters beyond Lucas aren't really developed. Each secondary character (and specifically Zach) had a lot of potential but that potential wasn't necessarily reached. But more than that, I didn't like that it took so long for Lucas and Zach to get together. I felt like much of the story was focused on Lucas with Donovan, which didn't go anywhere besides creating unnecessary angst. By the end, though, I didn't feel like Lucas and Zach's feelings were genuine or as strong as they were made out to be. I also felt like the ending was very rushed and abrupt. I was expecting more after the last scene but it just ended.
Overall, though, I really liked this story because I connected so well with Lucas. He might have been a bit emotional and naive but I liked him nonetheless. Just really wished there had been more of Zach and him!
I liked Lucas because of his passion for the piano. I loved that just because he was picked on for how he acted or looked, he never gave up on playing the piano so it was awesome to see bits and pieces of him playing it throughout the story. To be honest, this story broke my heart a bit. Lucas is very naive and gullible. He lets a lot of people walk all over him and then gets upset over it. It's very sad and I felt for him but at the same time, he needed to grow a backbone and say enough is enough already.
I think the biggest flaw of this story, though, is that the characters beyond Lucas aren't really developed. Each secondary character (and specifically Zach) had a lot of potential but that potential wasn't necessarily reached. But more than that, I didn't like that it took so long for Lucas and Zach to get together. I felt like much of the story was focused on Lucas with Donovan, which didn't go anywhere besides creating unnecessary angst. By the end, though, I didn't feel like Lucas and Zach's feelings were genuine or as strong as they were made out to be. I also felt like the ending was very rushed and abrupt. I was expecting more after the last scene but it just ended.
Overall, though, I really liked this story because I connected so well with Lucas. He might have been a bit emotional and naive but I liked him nonetheless. Just really wished there had been more of Zach and him!
April 2, 2013
4.25
Loved this. It's so, so sweet and hit all the right spots for a YA read. :) The pacing was great, the dialogue was great, Trish was awesome, and oh God Alex, I love you!
The romance part was just beautiful.
The crying did not bother me, perhaps because I am an emotional person and would have cried just as easily almost all those points too.
The kink sex talk at the end -- also did not bother me at all. In fact, I actually had a little chuckle at how nervous Lucas was but that he was willing to try . . . :P
The mum annoyed me most, honestly. She was so wish-washy and didn't seem like the same mum that Lucas remembered when he was younger. Mason was a pretty typical brother, annoying as hell, but when it really counts there. The dad I thought felt pretty genuine--he has some hang ups but tries to get over them.
But what was the point in the 'condom' talk for blow jobs if nobody used them/were never mentioned again?
Other than that little nag, I really enjoyed this light, sweet read. Totally my cup of tea.
Nice. :D
Loved this. It's so, so sweet and hit all the right spots for a YA read. :) The pacing was great, the dialogue was great, Trish was awesome, and oh God Alex, I love you!
The romance part was just beautiful.
The crying did not bother me, perhaps because I am an emotional person and would have cried just as easily almost all those points too.
The kink sex talk at the end -- also did not bother me at all. In fact, I actually had a little chuckle at how nervous Lucas was but that he was willing to try . . . :P
The mum annoyed me most, honestly. She was so wish-washy and didn't seem like the same mum that Lucas remembered when he was younger. Mason was a pretty typical brother, annoying as hell, but when it really counts there. The dad I thought felt pretty genuine--he has some hang ups but tries to get over them.
But what was the point in the 'condom' talk for blow jobs if nobody used them/were never mentioned again?
Other than that little nag, I really enjoyed this light, sweet read. Totally my cup of tea.
Nice. :D
October 6, 2017
3.5, subo a cuatro porque lo cierto es que esta lectura me ha hecho disfrutar mucho.
Comienza muy, muy bien pero hacia la mitad la cosa pierde fuelle y la verdad es que el romance no me ha robado el corazón, además el obstáculo final de la pareja y su resolución me han parecido traídos con pinzas.
Pero Lucas me ha enamorado, es un poco llorón, pero despierta mucha ternurita <3
Y Donovan también me ha gustado mucho, no es un personaje que veamos a menudo.
Un YA muy mono (¿Se pueden considerar YA cuando hay refrote???) de los que te hacen sentir bien.
Comienza muy, muy bien pero hacia la mitad la cosa pierde fuelle y la verdad es que el romance no me ha robado el corazón, además el obstáculo final de la pareja y su resolución me han parecido traídos con pinzas.
Pero Lucas me ha enamorado, es un poco llorón, pero despierta mucha ternurita <3
Y Donovan también me ha gustado mucho, no es un personaje que veamos a menudo.
Un YA muy mono (¿Se pueden considerar YA cuando hay refrote???) de los que te hacen sentir bien.
March 18, 2015
This review can also be found on my blog: A Match Made in Heaven
I am really starting to enjoy coming of age/coming out stories. They are so sweet and innocent. I really loved Lucas. He was so vulnerable in the beginning. The kind of person who would have been picked on even if he wasn't gay, just because he was so small and socially awkward. Its really hard to believe how cruel kids can be sometimes. I really hated seeing the things Lucas' classmates did to him. It really wasn't fair. Just because he didn't defend himself and he had a passion for music? Ridiculous. He was such a great person, if they only would have given him a chance. He was smart, and he respected and loved his parents, was an honest and loyal friend to Alex and Trish. And despite all the mistreatment, he admired and loved his brother. I am so glad that he was able to get past it all in the end.
I really enjoyed how the book focused a lot more on Lucas' journey, than on a romance. It was still very romantic, but it took almost half the book before we even knew who the romantic interest was going to be. I really did not enjoy that parts with Donovan though. He was such a jerk and the parts with him and Lucas together made me uncomfortable. I feel bad that Lucas didn't see the situation clearly sooner, but at least he dumped his ass eventually. He may have had some good intentions, he seemed like a decent friend to Trish, but mostly he was just selfish. Alex on the other hand was amazing. He confused me sometimes and I had trouble trying to figure out his motives. In the end I had to settle on the fact that he is just the greatest person ever. Its that simple.
And of course I loved Zach. He was big and muscly and hot, but at the same time he was so deep and sensitive and he had a soul that matched Lucas'. No one else would have been able to understand Lucas the way Zach did, to anticipate his needs and fears and insecurities. Despite everything, Lucas is still only 17, and with that comes common teenage insecurities about sex and body image. And Zach was so patient and reassuring. You know he would wait forever for Lucas, because as much as Lucas needs him, he needs Lucas too. The poetry he wrote for Lucas was so intense, even more so because he wrote it before approaching Lucas and really getting to know him. He needed Lucas' passion and honesty and goodness. You could really see how broken Zach was after they fought and he thought that he had lost Lucas forever. Somehow, despite everything he has been put through by others, and the fact that he is so quiet and mostly isolated, Lucas still seems like a light. There was a brightness in him. And no one saw that more than Zach.
I am really starting to enjoy coming of age/coming out stories. They are so sweet and innocent. I really loved Lucas. He was so vulnerable in the beginning. The kind of person who would have been picked on even if he wasn't gay, just because he was so small and socially awkward. Its really hard to believe how cruel kids can be sometimes. I really hated seeing the things Lucas' classmates did to him. It really wasn't fair. Just because he didn't defend himself and he had a passion for music? Ridiculous. He was such a great person, if they only would have given him a chance. He was smart, and he respected and loved his parents, was an honest and loyal friend to Alex and Trish. And despite all the mistreatment, he admired and loved his brother. I am so glad that he was able to get past it all in the end.
I really enjoyed how the book focused a lot more on Lucas' journey, than on a romance. It was still very romantic, but it took almost half the book before we even knew who the romantic interest was going to be. I really did not enjoy that parts with Donovan though. He was such a jerk and the parts with him and Lucas together made me uncomfortable. I feel bad that Lucas didn't see the situation clearly sooner, but at least he dumped his ass eventually. He may have had some good intentions, he seemed like a decent friend to Trish, but mostly he was just selfish. Alex on the other hand was amazing. He confused me sometimes and I had trouble trying to figure out his motives. In the end I had to settle on the fact that he is just the greatest person ever. Its that simple.
And of course I loved Zach. He was big and muscly and hot, but at the same time he was so deep and sensitive and he had a soul that matched Lucas'. No one else would have been able to understand Lucas the way Zach did, to anticipate his needs and fears and insecurities. Despite everything, Lucas is still only 17, and with that comes common teenage insecurities about sex and body image. And Zach was so patient and reassuring. You know he would wait forever for Lucas, because as much as Lucas needs him, he needs Lucas too. The poetry he wrote for Lucas was so intense, even more so because he wrote it before approaching Lucas and really getting to know him. He needed Lucas' passion and honesty and goodness. You could really see how broken Zach was after they fought and he thought that he had lost Lucas forever. Somehow, despite everything he has been put through by others, and the fact that he is so quiet and mostly isolated, Lucas still seems like a light. There was a brightness in him. And no one saw that more than Zach.
April 27, 2013
What an absolutely delightful read. It is always so much fun to discover a new author who has the ability to write well AND to weave a story that grabs and holds your attention from start to finish. Her characters were exhibiting things I went through when I was their age. Several times I had to stop reading and think, "How did she know that happened to me?"
It was so nice to watch Lucas slowly evolve from a battle scarred introvert into a beautiful, gifted young adult who could finally see why people might love him as he is. I wanted to drop kick Donovan until I saw how wounded he was by life. I wanted to wrap my arms around Zack because he is such an absolute sweetheart. Every young gay guy deserves a Zack in their lives.
The scene where Lucas and his brother Mason are sitting with their father while he talks with them about playing safe and how to properly use a condom. His father was winning big points from me until his mask slipped and he spoke with his straight son and said, "You need to use condoms for normal sex too."
My favorite lines were on page 230, a conversation between Lucas and his father:
It was so nice to watch Lucas slowly evolve from a battle scarred introvert into a beautiful, gifted young adult who could finally see why people might love him as he is. I wanted to drop kick Donovan until I saw how wounded he was by life. I wanted to wrap my arms around Zack because he is such an absolute sweetheart. Every young gay guy deserves a Zack in their lives.
The scene where Lucas and his brother Mason are sitting with their father while he talks with them about playing safe and how to properly use a condom. His father was winning big points from me until his mask slipped and he spoke with his straight son and said, "You need to use condoms for normal sex too."
My favorite lines were on page 230, a conversation between Lucas and his father:
"I haven't always supported your music." His dad took a breath. "I've never supported your music. I'm sorry, son."
Lucas briefly wondered if Mason's comment had brought this on.
"When you were younger, it was clear to your mother and me that you were... different. And I guess I was afraid of encouraging you to do things that I thought would..." His dad struggled to say the words.
"Make me gay?"
He nodded. "Some of the things you did or said, they made me question whether you might be, but you were just a kid. I thought maybe you were just odd. The piano playing -- you were so... excuse the word... flamboyant. Sometimes I wonder... if I hadn't allowed you to play, would you still have turned out to be gay?"
Lucas felt the lump in his throat rise. "There's nothing you could do to make me any more or less gay, Dad. It's who I am."
"It's not who you are. It's part of who you are, but it's not who you are. You're so much more than just that, and I'm proud of you. All of you."
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