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Honor C
When Honor Castillo convinces himself he isn’t gay, he begins a new life. He ends his affair with his lover, Jorge Villagomez, and marries Rebecca to establish a life with her as a respected San Antonio businessman. They have a son and he tells himself he is happy.
Eleven years later, Jorge returns to San Antonio, and his path crosses with Honor’s once more. The flame of their passion never died, and neither did Jorge’s love for Honor.
When Jorge approaches Honor to design his studio, Honor believes he can walk the line between friendship and lovers. But when a sudden crisis threatens to take Jorge from him forever, Honor must choose between his duty and his heart. Most of all, he’s forced to decide what he’s willing to lose in order to be true to who he really is.
Eleven years later, Jorge returns to San Antonio, and his path crosses with Honor’s once more. The flame of their passion never died, and neither did Jorge’s love for Honor.
When Jorge approaches Honor to design his studio, Honor believes he can walk the line between friendship and lovers. But when a sudden crisis threatens to take Jorge from him forever, Honor must choose between his duty and his heart. Most of all, he’s forced to decide what he’s willing to lose in order to be true to who he really is.
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2013
3 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 30, 2013
Amazing. No other word for this book.
I have to be honest here. I read this book in its earliest form, and then when Ms. Zampa re-worked it. When she asked me what I thought, I cried. Honor is an amazing man, and I loved him.
This story was like a slow, passionate hymn to love, longing, and...well, honor.
Every word is well placed, every emotion well timed. This is one of those rare books where I find myself looking at the pages, frantic as they dwindle in my hands. I don't want it to be over, but I want to know where we are going.
Ah, and the destination is never in doubt. The journey though, it was worth the ride.
Amazing. Carol has risen above all of us here, and this is like a pure, cool drink of water after a drought.
Loved it. Can't wait to re-read it.
Thank you, Carol. I knew you could.
Tom
I have to be honest here. I read this book in its earliest form, and then when Ms. Zampa re-worked it. When she asked me what I thought, I cried. Honor is an amazing man, and I loved him.
This story was like a slow, passionate hymn to love, longing, and...well, honor.
Every word is well placed, every emotion well timed. This is one of those rare books where I find myself looking at the pages, frantic as they dwindle in my hands. I don't want it to be over, but I want to know where we are going.
Ah, and the destination is never in doubt. The journey though, it was worth the ride.
Amazing. Carol has risen above all of us here, and this is like a pure, cool drink of water after a drought.
Loved it. Can't wait to re-read it.
Thank you, Carol. I knew you could.
Tom
May 29, 2013
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
Oh my, oh damn. No book, no book ever has the right to make you feel so much, this many emotions all at the same time. I loved it, I adored it, I hated it and it damn near broke my heart only to leave me with a slight glimmer of hope and a trembling, barely there smile and eyes stinging. I was overwhelmed by this book, my head hurts after the roller coaster of emotions and I think I didn’t dare breathe freely from the moment I started reading till the very end, and even then I think my breath has not returned to normal levels. It must be that chunk in my throat that refuses to go even after half an hour that I gave myself to compose and collect my thoughts.
Damn what a story. It starts with Honor and Jorge as young men, secret lovers hidden in a tree house that has witnessed their most intimate time together, their epic perhaps relationship. It starts with their last day as Honor – convinced in his illusions that he’s not gay – ends the secret relationship with his beautiful Jorge to start a new life with Rebecca, a woman he fell in love. It start with the first time Honor rips Jorge’s heart and Jorge leaves San Antonio not bearing to witness his love’s smiles directed to another person but him.
It goes on with a slight flashback of memories from their childhood and how the two – dare I say – fated lovers met, how they story began.
And it hit you right through your heart eleven years later when Jorge comes back in town and Fate throws them together yet again. From that moment on we see this gorgeous erotic dance and flirt between them that swirls you in its rhythm and dazzles you in its sensuality. The passion, the craving, the longing and oh my God the sizzling heat is all there and you can almost taste it when those two balance precariously between friendship and… Oh who am I kidding, when they meet again I wondered how the entire place didn’t catch fire and point at them for being responsible, those feeling described were that palpable. Amazing work in writing that down; the author makes you feel in love and right when you think you can’t handle it anymore, when you truly believe this is it, they will finally make their declaration and be together and this will end up in fantastic explosion of intimate intercourse between them…
Oh God, I think I hated this author just then. The pain that shot through me with what came next, forget the characters, forget the book, I was having a damn heart attack.
I thought I’d dislike this story when I read the blurb, I really did. I dislike closeted cases, married men cheating on their wives and simultaneously ripping their lover’s heart apart. I was confused or perhaps I did not understand the blurb correctly. Although Honor is indeed –quoting him- the king of the closet, although he indeed causes too much hurt to their weird triangle, he never once cheated on his wife. He lied to her, hid his very own being from her, and fooled her for eleven years into his love, but Honor had the decency to not humiliate her that way. As much as I wanted to kill him at times for the mess he did, I truly love Honor and everything about him.
But as I said he caused a mess of everything, silly man, first driving Jorge off and then destroying his entire life. Everything that followed were simply exquisite. I loved the realistic feeling I got from every scene. I loved Rebecca’s take, all bout her, every single reaction was brilliantly written. I loved Honors anguish and feasted on Jorge’s pain. Don’t misunderstand me, what followed was highly frustrating and nearly drove me crazy till I read past it, but that was the beauty of it. And as I was slowly reading through the end, when I’d thought I’d finally breathe a bit easier I was once again forced to shatter my expectations into a fantastic albeit HFN and with a high taste of sadness end. The character growth was just plain brilliant.
Honor C is a book that will shatter your comfy zone and take you into a hurricane of delightful feelings including a few tears spilled here and there. I strongly suggest you read it, it would be such a waste to miss such a beautiful read.
Heads up: There is one mf scene, albeit not graphically described, it focused more on the emotions between Honor and Becky and how it felt as the end for their marriage and a bittersweet goodbye.
Thommie
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
Oh my, oh damn. No book, no book ever has the right to make you feel so much, this many emotions all at the same time. I loved it, I adored it, I hated it and it damn near broke my heart only to leave me with a slight glimmer of hope and a trembling, barely there smile and eyes stinging. I was overwhelmed by this book, my head hurts after the roller coaster of emotions and I think I didn’t dare breathe freely from the moment I started reading till the very end, and even then I think my breath has not returned to normal levels. It must be that chunk in my throat that refuses to go even after half an hour that I gave myself to compose and collect my thoughts.
Damn what a story. It starts with Honor and Jorge as young men, secret lovers hidden in a tree house that has witnessed their most intimate time together, their epic perhaps relationship. It starts with their last day as Honor – convinced in his illusions that he’s not gay – ends the secret relationship with his beautiful Jorge to start a new life with Rebecca, a woman he fell in love. It start with the first time Honor rips Jorge’s heart and Jorge leaves San Antonio not bearing to witness his love’s smiles directed to another person but him.
It goes on with a slight flashback of memories from their childhood and how the two – dare I say – fated lovers met, how they story began.
And it hit you right through your heart eleven years later when Jorge comes back in town and Fate throws them together yet again. From that moment on we see this gorgeous erotic dance and flirt between them that swirls you in its rhythm and dazzles you in its sensuality. The passion, the craving, the longing and oh my God the sizzling heat is all there and you can almost taste it when those two balance precariously between friendship and… Oh who am I kidding, when they meet again I wondered how the entire place didn’t catch fire and point at them for being responsible, those feeling described were that palpable. Amazing work in writing that down; the author makes you feel in love and right when you think you can’t handle it anymore, when you truly believe this is it, they will finally make their declaration and be together and this will end up in fantastic explosion of intimate intercourse between them…
Oh God, I think I hated this author just then. The pain that shot through me with what came next, forget the characters, forget the book, I was having a damn heart attack.
I thought I’d dislike this story when I read the blurb, I really did. I dislike closeted cases, married men cheating on their wives and simultaneously ripping their lover’s heart apart. I was confused or perhaps I did not understand the blurb correctly. Although Honor is indeed –quoting him- the king of the closet, although he indeed causes too much hurt to their weird triangle, he never once cheated on his wife. He lied to her, hid his very own being from her, and fooled her for eleven years into his love, but Honor had the decency to not humiliate her that way. As much as I wanted to kill him at times for the mess he did, I truly love Honor and everything about him.
But as I said he caused a mess of everything, silly man, first driving Jorge off and then destroying his entire life. Everything that followed were simply exquisite. I loved the realistic feeling I got from every scene. I loved Rebecca’s take, all bout her, every single reaction was brilliantly written. I loved Honors anguish and feasted on Jorge’s pain. Don’t misunderstand me, what followed was highly frustrating and nearly drove me crazy till I read past it, but that was the beauty of it. And as I was slowly reading through the end, when I’d thought I’d finally breathe a bit easier I was once again forced to shatter my expectations into a fantastic albeit HFN and with a high taste of sadness end. The character growth was just plain brilliant.
Honor C is a book that will shatter your comfy zone and take you into a hurricane of delightful feelings including a few tears spilled here and there. I strongly suggest you read it, it would be such a waste to miss such a beautiful read.
Heads up: There is one mf scene, albeit not graphically described, it focused more on the emotions between Honor and Becky and how it felt as the end for their marriage and a bittersweet goodbye.
Thommie
January 22, 2014
I. LOVED. This. Book!
Good lawd! Let me get my thoughts together here.
It was perfection. Every word was lovingly placed to induce this sense of being a fly on the wall in these people's lives. It was beautiful. It made me cry. It was so Hispanic! Honor and Jorge reminded me so much of home, it wasn't even funny.
I know this review is kind of disjointed, but what can I say? C. Zampa hit a home run right out of the park with this one.... I have no words. I might have to come back later and say more when I'm less verklempt.
Read it!
Good lawd! Let me get my thoughts together here.
It was perfection. Every word was lovingly placed to induce this sense of being a fly on the wall in these people's lives. It was beautiful. It made me cry. It was so Hispanic! Honor and Jorge reminded me so much of home, it wasn't even funny.
I know this review is kind of disjointed, but what can I say? C. Zampa hit a home run right out of the park with this one.... I have no words. I might have to come back later and say more when I'm less verklempt.
Read it!
November 9, 2013
If you are interested in any of these -
Incredible angst
Powerful points of view by all main characters who are well drawn and three dimensional
A closeted man forced to look at his life
A love that has never died
Something that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you in need of some tissues
A sense of romance yet anguish all at once
A HFN
Then this could well be for you. I really, really liked Honor C. Full review, which could be deemed as containing spoilers, at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
January 5, 2014
This is one of those books that you buy then, for whatever reason don't read straight away, letting it get more and more lost in the pile until you practically forget its there, and then out of the blue someone mentions it in passing and it gives you a little push to check it out. So you do ..... and realise that you've been sitting on an absolute diamond of a story!
I honestly don't know how to do this story justice because its such an emotional roller coaster, involving three people whose lives are thrown into turmoil, simply because society says its not right for two men to love each other. Honor Castillo and Jorge Villagomez are in love and have been since the day fierce, frail, feminine, beautiful Jorge stood up for Honor against a school bully but, for reasons that become clear as the story progresses, Honor stays closeted, suppresses his homosexuality and shy's away from commiting to a full on gay relationship with Jorge, who because of his looks and personality, openly wears his sexuality on his sleeve.
As the book starts they are making love one last time before Honor gets engaged to Becky, the woman who becomes his wife and mother to his lovely little boy Michael. For the next eleven years he lives his life as a ' normal' married man, honestly loving his wife but deep down knowing that he still has feelings for men and has only ever been truly in love with one person,...Jorge. Then one day, without warning, that person walks back into Honors and Becky's life, bringing their carefully but thinly constructed walls crashing down.
You'll notice I haven't tagged this book as cheating because frankly despite the idea that the blurb puts in your mind, there actually isn't any. Obviously Honor and Jorge still recognise the feelings they have for each and the sexual tension is off the charts when they're on page together and there is some simmering, heated meetings between them but each one is conscious of the fact that Honor is married and even though they are still drawn to each other and almost succumb to their feelings, nothing is ever acted upon physically. Subconsciously Becky has suspected over the years that something in their marriage doesn't fit right and even before Jorge arrives back on the scene, her insecurities cause her to get jealous and accuse Honor of cheating but never suspecting that its possibly men who are her nemesis, in her mind it has to be other women. Cleverly told from three different prospectives, we get to see what happens when Honor finally finds the courage to stop living a lie and just how it impacts on the lives of all three of them and their futures together.
There are no bad guys in this at all, each one of them has been conditioned by what society expects of them. Jorge has never been anything but openly gay and lives life with no apology, but he has never been able to give himself fully to any man since Honor, Becky has done what is expected of most women, fallen in love and married what she thinks is the ( straight) man of her dreams and appalling events in Honors past have been the cause of him suppressing his true nature making him seek out marriage as the cure for his 'problem,' so the reactions, outbursts and consequences whilst seeming sometimes harsh and cruel, are actually understandable from each one of them. There are times when you can't help but get angry at some of their actions but you can still see WHY each one of them acts the way they do and sympathise!
Each character touched me and is memorable in his or her own right, not forgetting little Micheal but Jorge stole my heart. Beautiful, fragile, sensual, sexy and feminine but also fierce, bitchy and fiery, I adored him and its those qualities that make you understand how Honor fell head over heels for this gorgeous man in the first place and why he could could never really forget him.
Thankfully there's a beautiful ending and a heavenly epilogue but its an emotional, heart-rending ride getting there. I absolutely loved this story with a passion and came away from it feeling slightly sad for the whole situation but fully satisfied by how Ms Zampa manages to pull all the pieces together. I loved it so much I went straight to Dreamspinner and picked up Candy G. which I started in the early hours of the morning and finished in one sitting too. Another 5 star read so this talented lady has just become another auto buy for me.
A fabulous read! Highly recommended.
I honestly don't know how to do this story justice because its such an emotional roller coaster, involving three people whose lives are thrown into turmoil, simply because society says its not right for two men to love each other. Honor Castillo and Jorge Villagomez are in love and have been since the day fierce, frail, feminine, beautiful Jorge stood up for Honor against a school bully but, for reasons that become clear as the story progresses, Honor stays closeted, suppresses his homosexuality and shy's away from commiting to a full on gay relationship with Jorge, who because of his looks and personality, openly wears his sexuality on his sleeve.
As the book starts they are making love one last time before Honor gets engaged to Becky, the woman who becomes his wife and mother to his lovely little boy Michael. For the next eleven years he lives his life as a ' normal' married man, honestly loving his wife but deep down knowing that he still has feelings for men and has only ever been truly in love with one person,...Jorge. Then one day, without warning, that person walks back into Honors and Becky's life, bringing their carefully but thinly constructed walls crashing down.
You'll notice I haven't tagged this book as cheating because frankly despite the idea that the blurb puts in your mind, there actually isn't any. Obviously Honor and Jorge still recognise the feelings they have for each and the sexual tension is off the charts when they're on page together and there is some simmering, heated meetings between them but each one is conscious of the fact that Honor is married and even though they are still drawn to each other and almost succumb to their feelings, nothing is ever acted upon physically. Subconsciously Becky has suspected over the years that something in their marriage doesn't fit right and even before Jorge arrives back on the scene, her insecurities cause her to get jealous and accuse Honor of cheating but never suspecting that its possibly men who are her nemesis, in her mind it has to be other women. Cleverly told from three different prospectives, we get to see what happens when Honor finally finds the courage to stop living a lie and just how it impacts on the lives of all three of them and their futures together.
There are no bad guys in this at all, each one of them has been conditioned by what society expects of them. Jorge has never been anything but openly gay and lives life with no apology, but he has never been able to give himself fully to any man since Honor, Becky has done what is expected of most women, fallen in love and married what she thinks is the ( straight) man of her dreams and appalling events in Honors past have been the cause of him suppressing his true nature making him seek out marriage as the cure for his 'problem,' so the reactions, outbursts and consequences whilst seeming sometimes harsh and cruel, are actually understandable from each one of them. There are times when you can't help but get angry at some of their actions but you can still see WHY each one of them acts the way they do and sympathise!
Each character touched me and is memorable in his or her own right, not forgetting little Micheal but Jorge stole my heart. Beautiful, fragile, sensual, sexy and feminine but also fierce, bitchy and fiery, I adored him and its those qualities that make you understand how Honor fell head over heels for this gorgeous man in the first place and why he could could never really forget him.
Thankfully there's a beautiful ending and a heavenly epilogue but its an emotional, heart-rending ride getting there. I absolutely loved this story with a passion and came away from it feeling slightly sad for the whole situation but fully satisfied by how Ms Zampa manages to pull all the pieces together. I loved it so much I went straight to Dreamspinner and picked up Candy G. which I started in the early hours of the morning and finished in one sitting too. Another 5 star read so this talented lady has just become another auto buy for me.
A fabulous read! Highly recommended.
May 31, 2013
4.5 stars What a beautiful and heart-wrenching book.
Eleven years ago, Honor broke Jorge's heart when he slammed the closet door and ended their relationship so that he could pursue Becky and live the way he was supposed to since, after all, he wasn't gay. Rather than stay and watch his lover's charade Jorge leaves town.
When they meet again, Honor and Becky are married and have a 6 year old son, whose dance teacher is none other than Jorge. For the past 11 years, Honor has remained true to Becky, who he loves, and has quashed any feelings for other men that he may have. Jorge has never fallen out of love with Honor and has never been able to have a serious relationship since. Now that they are back in each other's lives, Honor has to face his long denial of who he really is and make some hard decisions about his future. It is angsty and heartbreaking to watch relationships torn apart and rebuilt as Honor tries to come to grips with his sexuality and how to keep all these important people as a part of his life.
The story is told in alternating points of view from Honor, Jorge and Becky (there is also a brief m/f sex scene between Honor and Becky). The fact that we get to hear Becky's internal monologue helps to keep her from being the shrew she would have come off as otherwise. The HFN ending left me wanting more of Honor and Jorge. Well worth a read.
Eleven years ago, Honor broke Jorge's heart when he slammed the closet door and ended their relationship so that he could pursue Becky and live the way he was supposed to since, after all, he wasn't gay. Rather than stay and watch his lover's charade Jorge leaves town.
When they meet again, Honor and Becky are married and have a 6 year old son, whose dance teacher is none other than Jorge. For the past 11 years, Honor has remained true to Becky, who he loves, and has quashed any feelings for other men that he may have. Jorge has never fallen out of love with Honor and has never been able to have a serious relationship since. Now that they are back in each other's lives, Honor has to face his long denial of who he really is and make some hard decisions about his future. It is angsty and heartbreaking to watch relationships torn apart and rebuilt as Honor tries to come to grips with his sexuality and how to keep all these important people as a part of his life.
The story is told in alternating points of view from Honor, Jorge and Becky (there is also a brief m/f sex scene between Honor and Becky). The fact that we get to hear Becky's internal monologue helps to keep her from being the shrew she would have come off as otherwise. The HFN ending left me wanting more of Honor and Jorge. Well worth a read.
August 10, 2013
Absolutely fantastic. It's going straight to my comfort food shelf.
June 2, 2013
Reviewed on Hearts on Fire
When all is said and done this is a coming out story, but reading it feels like a whole lot more. There’s like a slow sensual seductive dance between the physically fragile but emotionally strong Jorge and the big & seemingly bolder but more prone to playing it safe, Honor that’s compelling to read about and you’re seduced under their spell. They meet during childhood where each of their personalities instantly shines through. From the beginning we see how protective Jorge is of Honor and how in return, Honor adores him. That’s why it’s a shock when Honor makes the announcement that even though they’re lovers that he doesn’t consider himself gay and will marry a young woman named Rebecca.
We fast forward to 10 years later where Honor is a successful businessman still living in his closeted marriage and now has a son. He meets up with Jorge again during an event involving his son. Their meeting brings to the forefront all that Honor has tried to hide about himself and his previously ordered life turns to chaos as he tries to find a way to either have Jorge in his life or let him go forever and to do so without hurting everyone he loves in the process.
This book will be uncomfortable for some as it touches on one of those hot buttons topics in romance novels with its themes about truth & faithfulness. Even though there’s really no physical cheating, there’s betrayal on all sides. There are no real villains but no one has clean hands in the story. It’s a little messy like in real life. We also get the point of views of Jorge & Honor and even Rebecca gets to have her say as she’s a part of this story.
But this is one story , even with some of it being quite frustrating, that I was totally enthralled with from beginning to end. It’s heartbreaking at times. This is not an extremely long novel but it has the emotions of a much larger story. The ending is more HFN and it’s a touch sad but lovely and ultimately triumphant. I love when an author commits themselves to the romance of a story as in this one, as this is unabashedly sentimental in its words, language and actions . I’d recommend to all but especially to those looking for a good love story and who don’t mind when things get complicated.
When all is said and done this is a coming out story, but reading it feels like a whole lot more. There’s like a slow sensual seductive dance between the physically fragile but emotionally strong Jorge and the big & seemingly bolder but more prone to playing it safe, Honor that’s compelling to read about and you’re seduced under their spell. They meet during childhood where each of their personalities instantly shines through. From the beginning we see how protective Jorge is of Honor and how in return, Honor adores him. That’s why it’s a shock when Honor makes the announcement that even though they’re lovers that he doesn’t consider himself gay and will marry a young woman named Rebecca.
We fast forward to 10 years later where Honor is a successful businessman still living in his closeted marriage and now has a son. He meets up with Jorge again during an event involving his son. Their meeting brings to the forefront all that Honor has tried to hide about himself and his previously ordered life turns to chaos as he tries to find a way to either have Jorge in his life or let him go forever and to do so without hurting everyone he loves in the process.
This book will be uncomfortable for some as it touches on one of those hot buttons topics in romance novels with its themes about truth & faithfulness. Even though there’s really no physical cheating, there’s betrayal on all sides. There are no real villains but no one has clean hands in the story. It’s a little messy like in real life. We also get the point of views of Jorge & Honor and even Rebecca gets to have her say as she’s a part of this story.
But this is one story , even with some of it being quite frustrating, that I was totally enthralled with from beginning to end. It’s heartbreaking at times. This is not an extremely long novel but it has the emotions of a much larger story. The ending is more HFN and it’s a touch sad but lovely and ultimately triumphant. I love when an author commits themselves to the romance of a story as in this one, as this is unabashedly sentimental in its words, language and actions . I’d recommend to all but especially to those looking for a good love story and who don’t mind when things get complicated.
June 9, 2013
Not sure how to explain this story. It is....not really realistic. Jorge is just to good to be true and Honor the most tormented and torn honorable guy ever. Well, this sounds now like I didn't like the book. That's wrong, I really liked it. If I had to describe it in one sentence I would say:
This story is a Tango.
The whole time while reading I heard the heartbreaking music of original Argentine Tango in the background of my head. I think it fits the story.
The language is used to paint picutres, so don't expect plain sentences.
It is probably good that the author stopped with the story at the HFN, a HEA (with for example the fulfillment of Michael's christmas wish) would have catapulted it in the cheesy section.
Nonetheless, as a mother of a child with a similar issue, it was hard for me to read. Which brings me to the one point I couldn't understand. Not allowed to participate in sport but becoming a dancer later? Sorry...that just didn't work for me.
But that aside, the book was different, extravagant and created a total different feeling, I really enjoyed it.
This story is a Tango.
The whole time while reading I heard the heartbreaking music of original Argentine Tango in the background of my head. I think it fits the story.
The language is used to paint picutres, so don't expect plain sentences.
It is probably good that the author stopped with the story at the HFN, a HEA (with for example the fulfillment of Michael's christmas wish) would have catapulted it in the cheesy section.
Nonetheless, as a mother of a child with a similar issue, it was hard for me to read. Which brings me to the one point I couldn't understand. Not allowed to participate in sport but becoming a dancer later? Sorry...that just didn't work for me.
But that aside, the book was different, extravagant and created a total different feeling, I really enjoyed it.
June 3, 2013
Wow. Amazing. This is one of those books that is so realistic, so true to life that it makes you sit up and take notice --- it stands out and above most others. Crisp, clear writing and unmatched dialogue. Told from three different viewpoints that I knew I wouldn't like but damn, I was wrong. I loved Honor, felt for him, wanted to shake him, scream at him but mostly wanted to hold him. Jorge. Wow. Such a complex character, but true and honest and unwavering in his devotion. Becky. I didn't think I'd appreciate her in his story but her viewpoint is what really makes this book so special. This is a hard book to read because this is real life, real situations and this is what really happens folks! Most of the time life is messy and people make bad decisions and this author tells the real story. I think this author is amazing and I can't wait to read more of her work. Outstanding.
June 16, 2013
5 INCREDIBLE, ANGSTY, WOW, I'M BREATHING LOVE STARS
HOLY CRAP! HOLY CRAP! HOLY CRAP!!!!
A SERIOUS LOVE STORY, INTERWOVEN, INTRICATE, COMPLEX. HIDDEN....
MY DEAR SWEET JORGE.... DEAR SWEET DIVA BITCHY CATTY ASS JORGE- YOU LOVE WITH YOUR WHOLE BEING!!! I LOVERED YOU THROUGH THE WHOLE BOOK AND WANTED YOU TO HAVE YOUR HEA
MY SWEET RAVAGED JORGE:
HONOR, HONOR, HONOR... HOLY CRAP BABE!! DID I EVER FEEL YOUR INTERNAL WAR.. IT PULLED AT MY HEART STRINGS!!! YOUR LOVE...FOR YOU WIFE, YOUR SON AND YOUR SOUL MATE, THE ONE YOU WERE MEANT TO BE WITH... YOU TOTALLY WRESTLED WITH YOUR DEMONS AND YOU WON!!!
MY SWEET HONORABLE HONOR:
If you want a good angsty read, a rip your heart out, shred it and repair it read this
HOLY CRAP! HOLY CRAP! HOLY CRAP!!!!
A SERIOUS LOVE STORY, INTERWOVEN, INTRICATE, COMPLEX. HIDDEN....
MY DEAR SWEET JORGE.... DEAR SWEET DIVA BITCHY CATTY ASS JORGE- YOU LOVE WITH YOUR WHOLE BEING!!! I LOVERED YOU THROUGH THE WHOLE BOOK AND WANTED YOU TO HAVE YOUR HEA
MY SWEET RAVAGED JORGE:
HONOR, HONOR, HONOR... HOLY CRAP BABE!! DID I EVER FEEL YOUR INTERNAL WAR.. IT PULLED AT MY HEART STRINGS!!! YOUR LOVE...FOR YOU WIFE, YOUR SON AND YOUR SOUL MATE, THE ONE YOU WERE MEANT TO BE WITH... YOU TOTALLY WRESTLED WITH YOUR DEMONS AND YOU WON!!!
MY SWEET HONORABLE HONOR:
If you want a good angsty read, a rip your heart out, shred it and repair it read this
January 6, 2016
4.5 stars. Wonderful! Tiny bit of a star taken away because I just didn't like Honor. I felt for him, yes, but tbh, I spent more time wishing Jorge would find someone else than hoping they'd get together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
July 22, 2013Rated 4½ stars
In this, C. Zampa's second novel, I once again found myself completely caught up in the book. I enjoyed Honor and Jorge's story tremendously; in fact when I was going through it to solidify points I wanted to make for this review I found myself reading it again. It's seductive and downright addictive is what it is.
I really enjoyed the way that Zampa gives the reader first person perspectives for the characters, mainly, of course, Honor and Jorge. But the times we were allowed to see firsthand what Becky was feeling and thinking added spice to the story, and I very much enjoyed it, even if I found myself upset with her. However, it was the look into what Becky was going through that added verisimilitude to the rest, and for that I offer kudos to the author. And it wasn't only the direct insight into what the character—whoever it was at the time—was feeling that I liked so much, but also their impressions of what was happening with the others.
In Honor C, the phrase 'the course of true love never did run smooth' is very appropriate. I was heartbroken, for both of them, when Honor decided to end his love affair with Jorge. But I think my heart belongs to Jorge. There is something about him that calls to me; his honesty and forthrightness are totally beguiling—well that and his outright sexiness. What makes it even hotter is that he's only being who he is; there's no guile, no desire to snare anyone. It's just Jorge being Jorge and I can certainly understand just what it is that Honor finds so utterly captivating.
There's no 'bad guy' (or bad gal) here; this is a story of people who love, and of people who hurt. But most of all, it's a story of people who learn that, regardless of decisions made, there is a price. And, at the end, that's life.
Once again C. Zampa has done it; captured me heart and mind, and I look eagerly forward to the next occasion. Thank you dear author!
Also posted on my site: Yin and Yang Reviews
In this, C. Zampa's second novel, I once again found myself completely caught up in the book. I enjoyed Honor and Jorge's story tremendously; in fact when I was going through it to solidify points I wanted to make for this review I found myself reading it again. It's seductive and downright addictive is what it is.
I really enjoyed the way that Zampa gives the reader first person perspectives for the characters, mainly, of course, Honor and Jorge. But the times we were allowed to see firsthand what Becky was feeling and thinking added spice to the story, and I very much enjoyed it, even if I found myself upset with her. However, it was the look into what Becky was going through that added verisimilitude to the rest, and for that I offer kudos to the author. And it wasn't only the direct insight into what the character—whoever it was at the time—was feeling that I liked so much, but also their impressions of what was happening with the others.
In Honor C, the phrase 'the course of true love never did run smooth' is very appropriate. I was heartbroken, for both of them, when Honor decided to end his love affair with Jorge. But I think my heart belongs to Jorge. There is something about him that calls to me; his honesty and forthrightness are totally beguiling—well that and his outright sexiness. What makes it even hotter is that he's only being who he is; there's no guile, no desire to snare anyone. It's just Jorge being Jorge and I can certainly understand just what it is that Honor finds so utterly captivating.
There's no 'bad guy' (or bad gal) here; this is a story of people who love, and of people who hurt. But most of all, it's a story of people who learn that, regardless of decisions made, there is a price. And, at the end, that's life.
Once again C. Zampa has done it; captured me heart and mind, and I look eagerly forward to the next occasion. Thank you dear author!
Also posted on my site: Yin and Yang Reviews
June 3, 2013
I loved this passionate, intense exploration of Honor, closeted and repressed, rediscovering the vulnerable yet refusing to be a victim, Jorge. The latino elements are consistently and wonderfully described, and the integrity of Honor shines through.
I loved that we also got Becky's pov. In fact all the secondary characters were three dimensional (poor Gabe), adding to the enjoyment of the narrative.
Read all in one night. Too fast really. Will go back and give it a more leisurely look soon.
Great stuff.
I loved that we also got Becky's pov. In fact all the secondary characters were three dimensional (poor Gabe), adding to the enjoyment of the narrative.
Read all in one night. Too fast really. Will go back and give it a more leisurely look soon.
Great stuff.
Want to read
May 22, 2013Currently free on Dreamspinners for PRE-ORDER until 8PM EST!!!
http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
November 2, 2013
A beautiful story of a coming out after way too many years in the closet. I suppose I shouldn't want a conclusion, but I'm spoiled.
August 7, 2017
Beautiful, emotional story
June 18, 2013
Five brilliant stars for Carol Zampa's Honor C.
Honor C stars a couple of very sexy Latino men, lovers as different from one another as it is possible to be. This is a story of love, oh certainly it is. Of romantic, soul mate, sexy love that abides even when denied. Also though of love that stems from a heart full of the ability--or the need--to give, to care, to cherish and hold safe. Therein lies the nearly heartbreaking conflict in the story.
I want as always to avoid spoilers, so let's stick to characters and set up. Honor Castillo is a man with a big heart with lots of room for all kinds of love, but also pumping a well-aged, well-justified childhood fear through his veins with every beat. He's so used to the fear that unless something brings it to the fore, he doesn't even notice it. Just like he doesn't notice that he has denied the love of his life--the "skinny, girly, driving-me-out-of-my-mind sexy" Jorge Villagomez, who was his best friend and lover for years before he stepped into the closet and sealed the door with a wedding ring. Honor believes in promises--the promises he never made to Jorge, the vows he did make to the woman he married, and the promise implied when he fathered a son. And Honor believes--or tries desperately to believe, that one love is as good as another. That he can--and does--love his wife and son, so therefore he isn't gay, and Jorge is nothing more than a secret memory. That's all there, early on, though the particulars not told here are what deepen the tale into more than a story. But the hinge that the novel, and Honor's closet door swings upon, is what happens when Jorge Villagomez reappears in Honor Castillo's life.
Having read Carol Zampa's earlier book, Candy G, I fully expected to like what I found in Honor C. I expected strong, well-realized characters and a chance to read what's written in their hearts. I expected to find a story that would drive like a train toward an unavoidable ending, and would yet have twists and turns sharp enough to threaten derailment. I expected to have my heart torn a bit and sewn back while my eyes got used to reading through the tears. What I didn't expect was an efficient beauty of language that, though present in Candy G, has matured, ripened in Honor C to render a work lovingly written and lovingly read, and to be cherished. My hat is off to Carol Zampa.
Honor C stars a couple of very sexy Latino men, lovers as different from one another as it is possible to be. This is a story of love, oh certainly it is. Of romantic, soul mate, sexy love that abides even when denied. Also though of love that stems from a heart full of the ability--or the need--to give, to care, to cherish and hold safe. Therein lies the nearly heartbreaking conflict in the story.
I want as always to avoid spoilers, so let's stick to characters and set up. Honor Castillo is a man with a big heart with lots of room for all kinds of love, but also pumping a well-aged, well-justified childhood fear through his veins with every beat. He's so used to the fear that unless something brings it to the fore, he doesn't even notice it. Just like he doesn't notice that he has denied the love of his life--the "skinny, girly, driving-me-out-of-my-mind sexy" Jorge Villagomez, who was his best friend and lover for years before he stepped into the closet and sealed the door with a wedding ring. Honor believes in promises--the promises he never made to Jorge, the vows he did make to the woman he married, and the promise implied when he fathered a son. And Honor believes--or tries desperately to believe, that one love is as good as another. That he can--and does--love his wife and son, so therefore he isn't gay, and Jorge is nothing more than a secret memory. That's all there, early on, though the particulars not told here are what deepen the tale into more than a story. But the hinge that the novel, and Honor's closet door swings upon, is what happens when Jorge Villagomez reappears in Honor Castillo's life.
Having read Carol Zampa's earlier book, Candy G, I fully expected to like what I found in Honor C. I expected strong, well-realized characters and a chance to read what's written in their hearts. I expected to find a story that would drive like a train toward an unavoidable ending, and would yet have twists and turns sharp enough to threaten derailment. I expected to have my heart torn a bit and sewn back while my eyes got used to reading through the tears. What I didn't expect was an efficient beauty of language that, though present in Candy G, has matured, ripened in Honor C to render a work lovingly written and lovingly read, and to be cherished. My hat is off to Carol Zampa.
July 15, 2013
I read a lot of books that are easily classified. Honor C is not one of those.
The story of a man who is in love with another, but family dictates he find his life elsewhere and it drives Honor to marry a woman who bears him a son. They are happy, so they think, but Honor has never forgotten Jorge, nor the love they shared. When Jorge returns to town, all those feelings are forced to the surface.
This is a harsh story, told in three views: Honor, Jorge, and Becky, Honor’s wife.
Each voice is different. Each one has to deal with their feelings. They need to come to terms with life the way it is now, not the way that each of them expected it would go.
A wife spurned has the opportunity to do incalculable damage to the man her husband loves. Will she take it or will she choose a different path, one that can bring peace?
A husband who ultimately has to decide if the closet is too small and he needs to step out into the light to celebrate the love he shared with the man who held his heart.
And a lover who was once spurned and has never found love again. Is he strong enough to accept the love he is offered or will he reject is to save himself?
C. Zampa did an outstanding job with these characters. You feel their fears and longings. You want to hold them to save the pieces that threaten to fly apart. But you know you can only watch as it comes to the inevitable conclusion.
And that one is a sight to behold.
Lucky's 5 sweet pea review appears at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
The story of a man who is in love with another, but family dictates he find his life elsewhere and it drives Honor to marry a woman who bears him a son. They are happy, so they think, but Honor has never forgotten Jorge, nor the love they shared. When Jorge returns to town, all those feelings are forced to the surface.
This is a harsh story, told in three views: Honor, Jorge, and Becky, Honor’s wife.
Each voice is different. Each one has to deal with their feelings. They need to come to terms with life the way it is now, not the way that each of them expected it would go.
A wife spurned has the opportunity to do incalculable damage to the man her husband loves. Will she take it or will she choose a different path, one that can bring peace?
A husband who ultimately has to decide if the closet is too small and he needs to step out into the light to celebrate the love he shared with the man who held his heart.
And a lover who was once spurned and has never found love again. Is he strong enough to accept the love he is offered or will he reject is to save himself?
C. Zampa did an outstanding job with these characters. You feel their fears and longings. You want to hold them to save the pieces that threaten to fly apart. But you know you can only watch as it comes to the inevitable conclusion.
And that one is a sight to behold.
Lucky's 5 sweet pea review appears at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
January 14, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
The book opens in the past as we see the men spending their last night together. There are only glimpses of their relationship shown until the story moved to present day. Their time shown together was so minimal that there was a distance to them as a couple.
This is the story where you know how it will end, but it’s the journey to get there. They get there through multiple viewpoints, which include Honor, Jorge, and Rebecca. The men are such different characters, but they had similar voices, which had a tendency to interrupt the flow of the narrative. Rebecca’s view was clear and while it tempered her hostility somewhat to be inside of her head, she wasn’t a character I was interested in spending time with.
On one hand, Honor is so afraid of who he is and on the other hand he leaves a mess of destruction in his wake and I never got the feeling he was truly sorry or completely got what he did to both Jorge and Rebecca. Jorge is not a well developed character and then he just goes along with whatever Honor wants and barely stands up for himself. There is a medical issue that seems to come out of nowhere since it is only explored at the end and it’s a classic case of finally realizing that time is limited. The book was released within the last three years and the talk of CDs, fax numbers, and pay phones read as dated even for the time it was released.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3 stars
The book opens in the past as we see the men spending their last night together. There are only glimpses of their relationship shown until the story moved to present day. Their time shown together was so minimal that there was a distance to them as a couple.
This is the story where you know how it will end, but it’s the journey to get there. They get there through multiple viewpoints, which include Honor, Jorge, and Rebecca. The men are such different characters, but they had similar voices, which had a tendency to interrupt the flow of the narrative. Rebecca’s view was clear and while it tempered her hostility somewhat to be inside of her head, she wasn’t a character I was interested in spending time with.
On one hand, Honor is so afraid of who he is and on the other hand he leaves a mess of destruction in his wake and I never got the feeling he was truly sorry or completely got what he did to both Jorge and Rebecca. Jorge is not a well developed character and then he just goes along with whatever Honor wants and barely stands up for himself. There is a medical issue that seems to come out of nowhere since it is only explored at the end and it’s a classic case of finally realizing that time is limited. The book was released within the last three years and the talk of CDs, fax numbers, and pay phones read as dated even for the time it was released.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
May 27, 2013
The story starts with a bit of history bewteen Jorge and Honor, then leaps forward to 'now' where Jorge has reappeared after 11 years, and is Honor's sons dance teacher. Honor is still denying he is gay - 'bound and gagged' in the closet.
The real story then begins, of the dance between Jorge, Honor and Becky, Honor's wife. The story is told in alternate view points of these 3 characters but chapter headings keep the reader on track. Strangely, I didnt feel sympathy for Becky - early background made her appear obsessed, whinny, manipulative, so even though her reactions were probably quite realistic (and better than could be expected) I still didnt feel for her. The others, well Jorge! Honor! Jorge! Jorge! Honor! Jorge! Such a lot of emotions and turmoil. Jorge got to me, perhaps because he wasnt well and I just wanted him to be.
So, get the tissues ready and be prepared for a roller coaster ride. A very strong 4* ride for me!
The real story then begins, of the dance between Jorge, Honor and Becky, Honor's wife. The story is told in alternate view points of these 3 characters but chapter headings keep the reader on track. Strangely, I didnt feel sympathy for Becky - early background made her appear obsessed, whinny, manipulative, so even though her reactions were probably quite realistic (and better than could be expected) I still didnt feel for her. The others, well Jorge! Honor! Jorge! Jorge! Honor! Jorge! Such a lot of emotions and turmoil. Jorge got to me, perhaps because he wasnt well and I just wanted him to be.
So, get the tissues ready and be prepared for a roller coaster ride. A very strong 4* ride for me!
August 18, 2013
Oh, my! All of the primary characters in this book have beautiful souls. They all loved deeply, felt abandoned and experienced great pain. For the most part, they all ultimately did what they thought was best for those they loved regardless of the hurt it caused them. Wow!
How different would Honor's life have been if the hadn't been brutalized, both mentally and physically, as a youth by his father when he tried to explain that magazine. His father destroyed Honor's self-image, his self confidence and pushed Honor into seeking a path contrary to his heart's deepest desires.
The book ends with more of a HFN, and the author leaves us with grave concerns from doctors and wishes/prayers by several characters for improved health. I am choosing to believe that Honor and Jorge have many happy years together. After all, miracles do happen, and they certainly deserve one!
How different would Honor's life have been if the hadn't been brutalized, both mentally and physically, as a youth by his father when he tried to explain that magazine. His father destroyed Honor's self-image, his self confidence and pushed Honor into seeking a path contrary to his heart's deepest desires.
The book ends with more of a HFN, and the author leaves us with grave concerns from doctors and wishes/prayers by several characters for improved health. I am choosing to believe that Honor and Jorge have many happy years together. After all, miracles do happen, and they certainly deserve one!
June 7, 2013
I didn't like this as much as I thought I would.
The way the story was pieced together and paced just didn't really work for me overall and I had a lot of difficultly with Rebecca (I know her chapters were supposed to help in showing the growth, but it pulled me out of the story).
It's a solid read and Honor and Jorge are great together. I loved their story and the love they showed for each other.
The way the story was pieced together and paced just didn't really work for me overall and I had a lot of difficultly with Rebecca (I know her chapters were supposed to help in showing the growth, but it pulled me out of the story).
It's a solid read and Honor and Jorge are great together. I loved their story and the love they showed for each other.
December 28, 2013
Even though there were cheesy lines throughout, I ended up smiling at the end. The plot line wasn't great but there was something special about Honor. He was such a tender, sensitive character that I forgave him for the heartache he caused both Becky and Jorje. Sweet, coming-out story which I probably won't remember all that well after a while, but worth my time. Recommend to angst-lovers.
June 16, 2013
Wonderful, beautiful story. I especially loved that not only did this story have the POV for Honor and Jorge, but it also had Rebecca’s, which I feel was just as important. It’s a HFN, but I hope there will be a HEA somewhere in the future for these two. I highly recommend this story.
June 20, 2014
LOVE LOVE LOVE! Seriously what a gorgeous story. And Jorge? WHAT A FEISTY ONE! This told in 3 different POV's and I was skeptical at first but that was short lived. Once again C. Zampa did a hell of a job bringing characters to life and building a visually beautiful world to us.
Want to read
May 21, 2013Free right now on Dreamspinner Press until 8 pm EST!!!!!!
July 22, 2013
3.5 stars
September 9, 2016
3.5 stars
Lots of drama and angst in this coming out story but overall an enjoyable story.
Lots of drama and angst in this coming out story but overall an enjoyable story.
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