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Singlets and Secrets
How Hard Would YOU Fight for True Love?
Fourteen-year-old Aiden Rothe's life is full of secrets, and his sexuality is only the tip of the iceberg. While his high school wrestling team views gay and strong as mutually exclusive, Aiden is determined to prove them wrong. It's time for a gay athlete to take top prize... if only he wasn't crushing hard on Mateo Hernandez, captain of the JV wrestling team and a major heartthrob.
Locked out of the wrestling scene, Aiden finds an unlikely mentor in his English teacher, Lloyd Samuels, who introduces him to karate. When Aiden's honesty about his sexuality backfires with some homophobic fellow students, Mr. S even steps in to protect him, creating a school martial arts club in the process. Once word gets around, there's an exciting new challenge on campus-the championship wrestling team against a bunch of outsiders and underdogs. It's the ultimate battle between the cool kids and the rebels. And for the main event? A showdown between Aiden versus Mateo. But can Aiden fight his first love and prove himself at the same time?
Dripping with raw emotion, unexpected twists, and more than a dash of hope, Singlets and Secrets isn't just more high school drama. It's a deep dive into figuring out who you are and accepting it no matter what someone else may think-a heroic journey that speaks to the struggling teenager in us all.
Fourteen-year-old Aiden Rothe's life is full of secrets, and his sexuality is only the tip of the iceberg. While his high school wrestling team views gay and strong as mutually exclusive, Aiden is determined to prove them wrong. It's time for a gay athlete to take top prize... if only he wasn't crushing hard on Mateo Hernandez, captain of the JV wrestling team and a major heartthrob.
Locked out of the wrestling scene, Aiden finds an unlikely mentor in his English teacher, Lloyd Samuels, who introduces him to karate. When Aiden's honesty about his sexuality backfires with some homophobic fellow students, Mr. S even steps in to protect him, creating a school martial arts club in the process. Once word gets around, there's an exciting new challenge on campus-the championship wrestling team against a bunch of outsiders and underdogs. It's the ultimate battle between the cool kids and the rebels. And for the main event? A showdown between Aiden versus Mateo. But can Aiden fight his first love and prove himself at the same time?
Dripping with raw emotion, unexpected twists, and more than a dash of hope, Singlets and Secrets isn't just more high school drama. It's a deep dive into figuring out who you are and accepting it no matter what someone else may think-a heroic journey that speaks to the struggling teenager in us all.
326 pages, Paperback
Published August 29, 2023
27 people are currently reading
3195 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 29, 2023
Singlets and Secrets is, in one way, a classic high school story about trying to figure out a place to belong and falling in love for the first time. But where football players and cheerleaders dominate many books in this category, Chianakas's protagonist is a skinny gay kid who is on the wrestling team to become stronger so he won't get beat up anymore and only wishes he could confess his love for another boy. Told in a genuine, raw voice and first-person point-of-view, this book is destined to rise above those other classics and situate itself front and center of high school stories for today's kids--and for those who bravely forged the path of all gay kids before.
June 2, 2024
I saw that the author was going to be signing books at my local bookstore, and I knew from the description this would be a book I was going to love.
The first ⅓ was difficult to read, given everything Aiden was put through. But once I picked it up again, I read the remaining ⅔ in a day. I love the unique take on high school sport-vs-sport drama as wrestling and karate within the same school. The author perfectly portrays life in a small town and how there are the same few popular spots at which you can’t help running into people you know. The characters all feel like real people– the good characters are all so loveable, and it’s amazing to see how much they grow over the course of the book. The bad guys are, unfortunately, realistically infuriating. Overall this was a really fun read, and I'm super excited that there will be more in the series!
The first ⅓ was difficult to read, given everything Aiden was put through. But once I picked it up again, I read the remaining ⅔ in a day. I love the unique take on high school sport-vs-sport drama as wrestling and karate within the same school. The author perfectly portrays life in a small town and how there are the same few popular spots at which you can’t help running into people you know. The characters all feel like real people– the good characters are all so loveable, and it’s amazing to see how much they grow over the course of the book. The bad guys are, unfortunately, realistically infuriating. Overall this was a really fun read, and I'm super excited that there will be more in the series!
March 2, 2024
Even though I wasn’t involved in high school sports, I empathize with Aiden. High school is difficult enough without having to hide your sexuality. Chianakas had me experiencing all of Aiden’s emotions. His characters felt like people I may have known. The author builds suspense which always made me want to keep on reading. I highly recommend this book. We are fortunate to have Joe as one of our local authors in west central Illinois.
August 30, 2023
I enjoyed getting to know Aiden and how his story starts. He is a very determined young man and I love how he keeps going no matter how rough things may seem. It’s a real joy learning how many people there are trying to stand up for him and become his friend. With reading this story you get to know how strong this main character really is and honestly it becomes a joy to see how this character is growing and never giving up. There are times when you read and you really feel the emotions of the characters, their sadness, anger, and even passion. The way Aiden and his friends come together at the end of the story will have you crying tears of joy. I really enjoyed this book and the author put a lot of thought into the details which makes it to where you just want to keep going and find out what happens next.
Honestly as a mother this book really took me on an emotional roller coaster. I felt like I could really relate to Aidens mom in a lot of ways. This book has had many surprises and some I wouldn’t have even thought about until reading this. It can really make you think and take a step back. The author of this story really did put so much thought into this book and I hope so many people read this book whether you’re a part of the LGBTQIA community or not it gives you a lot to think about from both perspectives. I can only hope that my kids grow up to be as strong and brave as Aiden is no matter who they love in this world of ours.
Honestly as a mother this book really took me on an emotional roller coaster. I felt like I could really relate to Aidens mom in a lot of ways. This book has had many surprises and some I wouldn’t have even thought about until reading this. It can really make you think and take a step back. The author of this story really did put so much thought into this book and I hope so many people read this book whether you’re a part of the LGBTQIA community or not it gives you a lot to think about from both perspectives. I can only hope that my kids grow up to be as strong and brave as Aiden is no matter who they love in this world of ours.
August 30, 2023
A story of strength in more ways than one
I started reading and couldn't put it down. Aiden's story is so captivating. You want to protect him. To fight alongside him. To cheer him on. I laughed. I had tears in my eyes. And I want to be the badass mama bear like Susan for my own sons. I would recommend this book to anyone, it is simply that great of a read. I can't wait to see what comes next.
I started reading and couldn't put it down. Aiden's story is so captivating. You want to protect him. To fight alongside him. To cheer him on. I laughed. I had tears in my eyes. And I want to be the badass mama bear like Susan for my own sons. I would recommend this book to anyone, it is simply that great of a read. I can't wait to see what comes next.
June 16, 2024
OH MY GOD.
I have so many mixed feelings about this book.
Initially, it was only gonna be a 4 stars for me just because at LEAST half the plot was literally just The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai gay edition, but then I really thought about it. The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai. Gay edition. And overall, and the most important in my opinion, it was an addicting read. I flew through it because it was just so addicting.
His relationship with Mateo and all that happened at the end was beautiful. Coming out? In front of the whole gymnasium? Kissing Aiden??? Yes. Simply yes.
The fight scenes are written fantastically, the characters are complex, the relationships are beautiful.
I have so many mixed feelings about this book.
Initially, it was only gonna be a 4 stars for me just because at LEAST half the plot was literally just The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai gay edition, but then I really thought about it. The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai. Gay edition. And overall, and the most important in my opinion, it was an addicting read. I flew through it because it was just so addicting.
His relationship with Mateo and all that happened at the end was beautiful. Coming out? In front of the whole gymnasium? Kissing Aiden??? Yes. Simply yes.
The fight scenes are written fantastically, the characters are complex, the relationships are beautiful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2025
This was an amazing read. I’m all about the queer retellings these days.
This was an amazing queer retelling of The Karate Kid. And if you like those movies and Cobra Kai, this is the book for you!
The retelling and reframing of it with a queer lens really works. It captures the gay experience as an adolescent and can really help you develop empathy to those undergoing a similar journey.
Aiden and Mateo really carry the story too. There’s a lot of swoonworthy moments with them that feel really earned.
Don’t expect a beat for beat retelling though. It takes you through a journey that won’t let you go until it’s over. I blazed through this and could not put it down.
I’m currently pre-writing a Karate Kid YA fantasy retelling and this book has given me a lot of thoughts and ideas on how to do it. Joe Chianakas really delivers on this!
This was an amazing queer retelling of The Karate Kid. And if you like those movies and Cobra Kai, this is the book for you!
The retelling and reframing of it with a queer lens really works. It captures the gay experience as an adolescent and can really help you develop empathy to those undergoing a similar journey.
Aiden and Mateo really carry the story too. There’s a lot of swoonworthy moments with them that feel really earned.
Don’t expect a beat for beat retelling though. It takes you through a journey that won’t let you go until it’s over. I blazed through this and could not put it down.
I’m currently pre-writing a Karate Kid YA fantasy retelling and this book has given me a lot of thoughts and ideas on how to do it. Joe Chianakas really delivers on this!
October 1, 2023
This is a wholesome, beautiful coming of age story. This book tells the story of Aiden, a 14 year old student learning to believe in himself even if others think he's "different ". It explores the pain that hatred can cause to an individual, a family as well as a whole community. Along the way Aiden developes true friendships and learns how strong he really is.
November 3, 2024
4.5 Stars - Rounded Up
September 4, 2023
Main character Aiden faces so much adversity as a gay teen in a high school where the championship wrestling team rules the school and is guided with a heavy hand by a brutal homophobic coach. The story drew me in, and my heart hurt the whole time as I hoped that Aiden could find a way to survive. Powerful story about the importance of friendship, supportive family and positive adult mentorship!
August 31, 2023
Love, betrayal, and friendship. Singlets and Secrets has it all. The characters captivate you and seem recognizable whether you're rooting for or against them, and there’s never a dull moment to be found while you read. I loved the Karate Kid inspiration and how it’s subtly referenced in the story, but while being inspired the author really makes it his own with amazing characters that you either love or love to hate. All that coupled with the great, and more importantly, believable dialogue makes this book a must read.
June 11, 2024
I finished the book in one day I loved it so much. I got a signed copy from the author when I met him at a pride festival yesterday with my boyfriend and his family. He was so nice! Definitely recommend this book and my boyfriend is going to borrow the book next time I hangout with him
October 25, 2023
This book had moments of awe, shock, and really wanting a character or more kicked in the face.
However, it was lovely and real and easy to read in three sittings. Usually I take days to finish a book.
The small Easter eggs for those who know the authors history made me smile as well.
It's a warm hug book.
However, it was lovely and real and easy to read in three sittings. Usually I take days to finish a book.
The small Easter eggs for those who know the authors history made me smile as well.
It's a warm hug book.
September 26, 2024
A single focus with some secret life lessons
How good are you at suspending your disbelieve and ignoring the elephant in the room? If you can do either of those things then you might quite enjoy this YA novel. If not, then you’re going to hate the overly constructed conflict between these groups of ‘friends’ and the scary similarity with Netflix’s first season of “Cobra Kai”.
For me, I could just about stay in the former camp through most of this novel. The main reason for that was I was keen to see Aiden get out of the traumatic bullying situation that dominates this book. And I somehow feel that with the author wanting to create a Karate Kid style coming out story, he inadvertently made this quite a scare story about coming out in your teens. The messages about high school homophobia and the subversive nature people in power can have on the young mind, were there. But in doing this he showed how harrowing it can be to come out. And that, unless you can learn how to fight, you’re going to be subjected to regular beatings from half the school. In fact all the people with the power to stop this, in particular the police, will fail you and even help the bullies finish the job. There’s a recklessness to some of this writing and the author struggles to turn it around with his antibullying rhetoric. But to give him his due, he has written some great characters in Tisha, Aiden’s Mum and of course Mr S. And those for me are some of the reasons why I quite liked this book.
Another reason I quite liked this book was because of the karate itself, funnily enough. I liked the philosophical side to Mr S teachings, and the life lessons he tried to bestow upon his students. But Joe Chianakas has also added some great fight scenes, in particular the big finale between Mr S and coach Krake’s students. But unfortunately much of the human “day to day life” that normally dominates YA books always seemed to be bookended with some kind of bullying or violence. It made this somewhat of an exhausting read. Even at the end when you hope we’ll finally get some post-fight restbite, the author quickly ends the book just as life starts to return to normal. So you never get to experience any post fight euphoria, which is a real shame given what the author has just put us all through.
So when finishing this book I had been keen to read the next in the series in the hope I might get to see Aiden living his new “out and proud” life. However, having read the blurb for book 2, I think we may be getting more of the same thing, so I think I’ll be having a rest before starting book 2.
3.75 Stars
How good are you at suspending your disbelieve and ignoring the elephant in the room? If you can do either of those things then you might quite enjoy this YA novel. If not, then you’re going to hate the overly constructed conflict between these groups of ‘friends’ and the scary similarity with Netflix’s first season of “Cobra Kai”.
For me, I could just about stay in the former camp through most of this novel. The main reason for that was I was keen to see Aiden get out of the traumatic bullying situation that dominates this book. And I somehow feel that with the author wanting to create a Karate Kid style coming out story, he inadvertently made this quite a scare story about coming out in your teens. The messages about high school homophobia and the subversive nature people in power can have on the young mind, were there. But in doing this he showed how harrowing it can be to come out. And that, unless you can learn how to fight, you’re going to be subjected to regular beatings from half the school. In fact all the people with the power to stop this, in particular the police, will fail you and even help the bullies finish the job. There’s a recklessness to some of this writing and the author struggles to turn it around with his antibullying rhetoric. But to give him his due, he has written some great characters in Tisha, Aiden’s Mum and of course Mr S. And those for me are some of the reasons why I quite liked this book.
Another reason I quite liked this book was because of the karate itself, funnily enough. I liked the philosophical side to Mr S teachings, and the life lessons he tried to bestow upon his students. But Joe Chianakas has also added some great fight scenes, in particular the big finale between Mr S and coach Krake’s students. But unfortunately much of the human “day to day life” that normally dominates YA books always seemed to be bookended with some kind of bullying or violence. It made this somewhat of an exhausting read. Even at the end when you hope we’ll finally get some post-fight restbite, the author quickly ends the book just as life starts to return to normal. So you never get to experience any post fight euphoria, which is a real shame given what the author has just put us all through.
So when finishing this book I had been keen to read the next in the series in the hope I might get to see Aiden living his new “out and proud” life. However, having read the blurb for book 2, I think we may be getting more of the same thing, so I think I’ll be having a rest before starting book 2.
3.75 Stars
December 12, 2023
I was surprised by several aspects of the book. Every chapter led up to the earth-shattering plot that was the end. It really encompassed what today's LGBTQIA+ youth have to go through on the daily. The ending had me absolutely screaming.
I've read a few books that don't engross seem to you in the first chapter. "Singlets and Secrets" is not one of them. After just reading the first chapter of the book, I was already invested. The first chapter starts off strong, giving you a taste of the main character, Aiden's personality, his insecurities, and his struggles.
Once I started reading it, I realized I wasn't going to be able to put it down. This book contains humor, angst, love, heartbreak and so many more aspects. If you enjoyed Heartstopper, you will absolutely adore "Singlets and Secrets."
This book perfectly captioned the anxiety of coming out, and the potential effects it can have on the relationships you have with friends and family. It showed that kids and adults alike can be especially cruel to LGBTQIA+ youth.
Aiden made an amazing main character. He was funny, passionate, smart, hardworking, and authentic.
What I liked best about the author's writing style is how accurate the point of view was. He captured what I would imagine to be Aiden's thought process perfectly. I loved the little nod to the author's book "Rabbit in Red" in chapter 33.
I've read a few books that don't engross seem to you in the first chapter. "Singlets and Secrets" is not one of them. After just reading the first chapter of the book, I was already invested. The first chapter starts off strong, giving you a taste of the main character, Aiden's personality, his insecurities, and his struggles.
Once I started reading it, I realized I wasn't going to be able to put it down. This book contains humor, angst, love, heartbreak and so many more aspects. If you enjoyed Heartstopper, you will absolutely adore "Singlets and Secrets."
This book perfectly captioned the anxiety of coming out, and the potential effects it can have on the relationships you have with friends and family. It showed that kids and adults alike can be especially cruel to LGBTQIA+ youth.
Aiden made an amazing main character. He was funny, passionate, smart, hardworking, and authentic.
What I liked best about the author's writing style is how accurate the point of view was. He captured what I would imagine to be Aiden's thought process perfectly. I loved the little nod to the author's book "Rabbit in Red" in chapter 33.
January 22, 2024
First off, I had to read this as soon as I could because I know the author and have read some of his other works. Now where to start?
The cover is absolutely gorgeous and couldn't be better. It's got the Pride colors implemented in a gorgeous way. It manages to convey a little bit of what the book is about and that it's a YA novel.
The story itself is an interesting fusion. This isn't Heartstopper. It's a modern Karate Kid but the stakes feel higher. You have a distinct cast of characters. Joe excels at creating distinct characters! And there's some real growth with the characters too. His writing style isn't real flowery so it's a pretty straight forward read (or as straight as Joe can write, amirite?!) Inside the story are nuggets of truth that you can gloss over if you aren't taking it all in. For instance on page 68, “Hope is a powerful drug. I’m scared some of his answers could take that away from me. Right now, hope’s all I got.”
The story progresses in a fashion similar to an 80s movie like Karate Kid. Things happen in the story that generally wouldn't happen in real life. It creates a sense of drama!
My one forewarning is that it's heavy on homophobia. Depending on who you are, it might be a little too much. However, I will tell you that the ending is positive and leaves you with hope. So hang in there reader.
I'm excited to see where the next entry goes.
The cover is absolutely gorgeous and couldn't be better. It's got the Pride colors implemented in a gorgeous way. It manages to convey a little bit of what the book is about and that it's a YA novel.
The story itself is an interesting fusion. This isn't Heartstopper. It's a modern Karate Kid but the stakes feel higher. You have a distinct cast of characters. Joe excels at creating distinct characters! And there's some real growth with the characters too. His writing style isn't real flowery so it's a pretty straight forward read (or as straight as Joe can write, amirite?!) Inside the story are nuggets of truth that you can gloss over if you aren't taking it all in. For instance on page 68, “Hope is a powerful drug. I’m scared some of his answers could take that away from me. Right now, hope’s all I got.”
The story progresses in a fashion similar to an 80s movie like Karate Kid. Things happen in the story that generally wouldn't happen in real life. It creates a sense of drama!
My one forewarning is that it's heavy on homophobia. Depending on who you are, it might be a little too much. However, I will tell you that the ending is positive and leaves you with hope. So hang in there reader.
I'm excited to see where the next entry goes.
July 15, 2024
A predictable story. A gay teenager takes up karate to defend himself from bullies. The boy he considers his best friend seems to side with him against the bullies -- only to turn against him saying their friendship was a lie. Then at the end, the friend says he was forced to tell him their friendship was a lie and that he is also gay and really wants to be the first boy's boyfriend. It's not bad, but it is not great either.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2023
WOW!! This story is so inspirational to young LGBTQ+ kids, the main character, Aiden goes through so much and as a reader you can empathize with his struggles even if you haven’t gone through them. As someone who recently has come out this book went through all the feelings of finding yourself. The ending is something you wouldn’t expect! It’s definitely a must read!
January 14, 2024
After growing up as a closeted gay in the mid-2000’s in a town much like this one, this book was healing in ways I never could have imagined. Somewhere in time, there’s a 15yo version of myself who just got a little stronger. Thanks Joe!
August 29, 2024
I almost didn't like it
Originally I thought the story was your general "coming out" story with a wrestling angle. It even starts with an awkward boner. But as the story continues to unfold several twists kept me reading and the final twist at the end was unexpected but awesome.
Originally I thought the story was your general "coming out" story with a wrestling angle. It even starts with an awkward boner. But as the story continues to unfold several twists kept me reading and the final twist at the end was unexpected but awesome.
October 6, 2023
Well, I think this is the best book ever :) I seriously do hope all of you give it a try. Thank you :)
December 7, 2023
It was good however I think the F slur was over used by a lot. As an LGBTQ+ student this book was relatable but a little overkill with that word.
February 18, 2024
Singlets and Secrets (Unveiling Aiden, 1)
By Joe Chianakas
Published by Mad Cat Books, 2023
Four stars
I never cease to be amazed at how the classic tropes of YA novels can be molded and shaped into something emotionally fresh and—in the case of this book—surprisingly harrowing. As a gay man who came out nearly 50 years ago, I am always startled at how rough it can still be for young LGBTQ people to find their way. The things I had half a century ago—supportive parents, an evolving church community, and good luck (right place, right time)—still don’t exist for all teenagers coming to grips with who they are. With the divisiveness in our nation today, things are even more unsure right now than they were, say, fifteen years ago. As Aiden says: “I don’t give a crap what the law is or how much everyone on TV supports gay pride. That’s not my reality.”
That’s why books like this matter. Young people need them. Hell, I need them, and my husband of 48 years and I have kids in their late twenties.
Aiden Rothe is fourteen. Desperate not to feel weak and to make some friends in his first year of high school, he joins the wrestling team. There he meets the JV wrestling captain, tall, handsome, athletic Mateo Hernandez. It’s a classic YA trope, but Chianakis throws in a bitter twist, in the form of a vicious bully of a wrestling coach, in league with his brother-in-law, a police captain with a similar narrow-minded perspective.
On the other hand, we have Aiden’s supportive teacher, Lloyd Samuels, and Aiden’s feisty, loving mother, Susan Gardner. They create the counterbalance against the despair radiating from the grown-up bullies out to ruin Aiden’s life in the name of prejudice. As Aiden’s friend DeMarcus notes, “Once you tolerate intolerance, it’s like opening a door to some crazy, bigoted past.”
This is not about good people and bad people, but about how bad people can terribly influence young minds and create a new generation of bigots and bullies. Like I said, seen through Aiden’s eyes, this is a harrowing story that we get to experience right along with him.
I was surprised to see that this is the first of a planned series. Good. I’d like to see where Aiden goes from here. He’s so like me at that age, it hurts.
By Joe Chianakas
Published by Mad Cat Books, 2023
Four stars
I never cease to be amazed at how the classic tropes of YA novels can be molded and shaped into something emotionally fresh and—in the case of this book—surprisingly harrowing. As a gay man who came out nearly 50 years ago, I am always startled at how rough it can still be for young LGBTQ people to find their way. The things I had half a century ago—supportive parents, an evolving church community, and good luck (right place, right time)—still don’t exist for all teenagers coming to grips with who they are. With the divisiveness in our nation today, things are even more unsure right now than they were, say, fifteen years ago. As Aiden says: “I don’t give a crap what the law is or how much everyone on TV supports gay pride. That’s not my reality.”
That’s why books like this matter. Young people need them. Hell, I need them, and my husband of 48 years and I have kids in their late twenties.
Aiden Rothe is fourteen. Desperate not to feel weak and to make some friends in his first year of high school, he joins the wrestling team. There he meets the JV wrestling captain, tall, handsome, athletic Mateo Hernandez. It’s a classic YA trope, but Chianakis throws in a bitter twist, in the form of a vicious bully of a wrestling coach, in league with his brother-in-law, a police captain with a similar narrow-minded perspective.
On the other hand, we have Aiden’s supportive teacher, Lloyd Samuels, and Aiden’s feisty, loving mother, Susan Gardner. They create the counterbalance against the despair radiating from the grown-up bullies out to ruin Aiden’s life in the name of prejudice. As Aiden’s friend DeMarcus notes, “Once you tolerate intolerance, it’s like opening a door to some crazy, bigoted past.”
This is not about good people and bad people, but about how bad people can terribly influence young minds and create a new generation of bigots and bullies. Like I said, seen through Aiden’s eyes, this is a harrowing story that we get to experience right along with him.
I was surprised to see that this is the first of a planned series. Good. I’d like to see where Aiden goes from here. He’s so like me at that age, it hurts.
September 10, 2025
4.5 * rounded up
"I step inside and take a deep breath. Be yourself. You deserve to be loved."
Aiden is a 14 year old multidimensional gay character. I really enjoyed seeing his thoughts and sensitivities. As the book progressed, I appreciated seeing his many dimensions, from fear, to confidence, bravery, and honesty, all which were difficult for him. I had a hard time putting this book down because I loved the heart coming out of the page. The scenes of fighting and heartbreak came out of the story and deeply moved me.
One of the main aspects I loved about this book was the themes of found family. In the beginning of the book I noticed only Aiden had depth and character growth. Then, through the middle of the story we got to see different dimensions to the other characters, such as his teacher, his mom, and a few friends. I enjoyed seeing his friend Tisha blossom, as well as the heartwarming relationship between Aiden and his teacher Mr. Samuels, becoming a father-figure.
“I’m asking you if you happen to fancy another boy grabbing you,” Coach Krake barks. He steps closer to me, and it’s like staring at a truck about to run me down. [...]”Am I gonna have a problem with you on this team? In the locker room… with my boys?”
The story was also kept moving by the constant martial arts actions. The descriptions were vivid and action packed, as though you could feel the hits and muscle aches yourself. Even in the unfamiliar world of wrestling, I could feel his pains and desires to fit in and stand up to his bullies.
I really appreciated the queer representation in this story. Most LGBTQ YA books don’t have well-developed sports plots. I really sympathized with Aiden because the town he grew up in reminded me a lot of my own hometown, caught between traditional conservative Christian values, and newer inclusion in the high school. The ways that Aiden is able to stand up to his bullies makes this an important story for anyone.
This story was full of emotions, hope, fighting action, and twists that stayed with me after reading.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
"I step inside and take a deep breath. Be yourself. You deserve to be loved."
Aiden is a 14 year old multidimensional gay character. I really enjoyed seeing his thoughts and sensitivities. As the book progressed, I appreciated seeing his many dimensions, from fear, to confidence, bravery, and honesty, all which were difficult for him. I had a hard time putting this book down because I loved the heart coming out of the page. The scenes of fighting and heartbreak came out of the story and deeply moved me.
One of the main aspects I loved about this book was the themes of found family. In the beginning of the book I noticed only Aiden had depth and character growth. Then, through the middle of the story we got to see different dimensions to the other characters, such as his teacher, his mom, and a few friends. I enjoyed seeing his friend Tisha blossom, as well as the heartwarming relationship between Aiden and his teacher Mr. Samuels, becoming a father-figure.
“I’m asking you if you happen to fancy another boy grabbing you,” Coach Krake barks. He steps closer to me, and it’s like staring at a truck about to run me down. [...]”Am I gonna have a problem with you on this team? In the locker room… with my boys?”
The story was also kept moving by the constant martial arts actions. The descriptions were vivid and action packed, as though you could feel the hits and muscle aches yourself. Even in the unfamiliar world of wrestling, I could feel his pains and desires to fit in and stand up to his bullies.
I really appreciated the queer representation in this story. Most LGBTQ YA books don’t have well-developed sports plots. I really sympathized with Aiden because the town he grew up in reminded me a lot of my own hometown, caught between traditional conservative Christian values, and newer inclusion in the high school. The ways that Aiden is able to stand up to his bullies makes this an important story for anyone.
This story was full of emotions, hope, fighting action, and twists that stayed with me after reading.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
September 5, 2023
First and foremost, this is an exceptionally well-versed book. While I don't share every experience that's mentioned, I can still personally understand and empathize with Aiden, the main character, as well as Mateo, at the mental turmoil that goes along with finding yourself. High school can be some of the most joyful times of your life, but it can also be some of the hardest as kids are struggling to find their personal identities and come to terms with who they are. One important aspect that I really enjoyed was how much of a strong support system Aiden has, especially with his mother. While reading how Aiden's mother responded to him coming out, I couldn't help but find myself putting myself in Aiden's shoes and empathizing with that feeling. I also couldn't help but think how sad it is to live in a world where we still have to question someone's love for us because we're different somehow. One of my favorite takeaway messages was this quote; "The most ignorant and the most hateful voices are simply often the loudest. But that doesn’t mean they speak for everyone. Far from it." I feel this was an important reminder to young readers that may feel different, in any way, from "social norms." The action within the plot was very descriptive and easy to visualize because of that. What I like most about this author in general is that he has a lot of one-liner quotes throughout that are great for more than just context, but stick with you and are great affirmations to keep in mind through daily life. 9/10, I feel that it can especially be appreciated and give validation to a lot of people within the LGBTQIA+ community, but as well as anybody that just feels different and outcast.
January 28, 2025
At times, I found this quite a difficult read because the main love interest was a total d*ck for 95% of the book!
Aiden, the main character, was 14/15 and so this felt very much like a middle school book. A lot of the time he was quite frustrating, from ignoring his friends who needed help to ‘falling in love’ incredibly quickly, even calling him his ‘best friend’ after about three days. Mateo was also horrible to Aiden for a much longer period than he was ever nice, so I’m not sure why Aiden liked him so much! It seemed like a romance with DeMarcus would have been much better…
I did like the focus on standing up for each other and taking control of your own narrative. The camaraderie of the group was cool, but I don’t know anything about wrestling or karate, so a lot of the references went over my head.
At times the relationship with his English teacher also seemed a little uncomfortable. Maybe it’s different in the US, but my English teacher definitely wouldn’t be inviting me back to his basement every evening!
Overall, I was pretty disappointed because the romance was so weak, but I known there’s a sequel so maybe that will be cuter.
🥋
Aiden, the main character, was 14/15 and so this felt very much like a middle school book. A lot of the time he was quite frustrating, from ignoring his friends who needed help to ‘falling in love’ incredibly quickly, even calling him his ‘best friend’ after about three days. Mateo was also horrible to Aiden for a much longer period than he was ever nice, so I’m not sure why Aiden liked him so much! It seemed like a romance with DeMarcus would have been much better…
I did like the focus on standing up for each other and taking control of your own narrative. The camaraderie of the group was cool, but I don’t know anything about wrestling or karate, so a lot of the references went over my head.
At times the relationship with his English teacher also seemed a little uncomfortable. Maybe it’s different in the US, but my English teacher definitely wouldn’t be inviting me back to his basement every evening!
Overall, I was pretty disappointed because the romance was so weak, but I known there’s a sequel so maybe that will be cuter.
🥋
August 30, 2023
Singlets and Secrets had me on emotional rollercoaster that I would ride over and over again! I felt like I was right there alongside Aiden, attending Washington High School and experiencing freshman year and the positive and negative attention he received, right there with him. There were moments I wished I could jump into the pages and give him the biggest hug ever! If you’re someone who needs that extra reminder that it’s okay to be who you are OUT LOUD, then this book would be a great read for you! This story helps to bring awareness to the mental and social turmoil one can endure after learning who they are and sharing or announcing it to their peers. Aiden being a young man who is new to high school and just wants to make friends and while being his true authentic self at the same time, didn’t have the smoothest experience.
July 21, 2024
This book is PHENOMENAL! It’s been sitting on my shelf for a while and I’m now mad it took me so long to pick it up. When I tell you that I devoured this book… if I didn’t have to sleep or work it would have been finished in a day. This book reminded me why I love YA books so much. To be put back in that mindset to feel those strong emotions for the first time is priceless. I knew it could be tough for queer kids in school, but to see it play out and feel the things Aiden was feeling.. this whole book is an emotional roller coaster and I highly recommend it! If you’ve got queer kids in your life, give them this book. It will show them that they are not alone. I can’t wait for the second installment!!!
August 7, 2024
"Say yes to author Joe Chianakas’ invitation to follow Aiden, his young adult protagonist, through the halls of high school to find friends, self-empowerment, understanding, and acceptance, in a coming-of-age story written from the POV of LGBTQIA youth. Inspiring, heartfelt, and memorable moments kept me reading, celebrating triumphs, cursing defeats, and empathizing with Aiden because I love heroic characters! It is a fantastic book for all ages, but this book NEEDS to be in public libraries, school district libraries, and high school classrooms to help teenage readers forge their own paths. Simply put, Singlets & Secrets, is a joy to read and impossible to put down!"
August 6, 2024
Thank you to Roan & Weatherford Publishing Associates for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating:
4.25 (Rounded Down)
My Opinion:
I thought this book was a great coming over age story. So many teens in a small town go through drama of being on a sports team. The characters had great character development and it made feel more and more real. Aiden's story was difficult and I could understand the hurt. But the author's writing made the book fly by. The chapter lengths were perfect and the writing was simple, yet so effective.
My Rating:
4.25 (Rounded Down)
My Opinion:
I thought this book was a great coming over age story. So many teens in a small town go through drama of being on a sports team. The characters had great character development and it made feel more and more real. Aiden's story was difficult and I could understand the hurt. But the author's writing made the book fly by. The chapter lengths were perfect and the writing was simple, yet so effective.
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