What do you think?
Rate this book
Bottled Up Secret
Brendan Madden is in the midst of his senior year of high school and couldn’t be happier. He has a great group of friends, his pick of colleges, and he has recently come to terms with his sexuality. One night, he meets Mark Galovic, a gorgeous, younger classmate of his. In a matter of minutes, Brendan is hooked. As the friendship between them grows, Brendan reaches his breaking point when he spontaneously confesses his feelings to him. Brendan is shocked and elated to find out that Mark feels the same way about him. The two begin to date, but because Mark is not out, it must remain a secret. As their friends and family become suspicious, openly gay Brendan becomes increasingly frustrated with their discreet relationship, while Mark becomes more and more paranoid that they’re going to be found out.
205 pages, Paperback
First published October 13, 2014
4 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
November 25, 2018
Real rating 1.5 stars, so rounded up to two stars. Nothing happened in this book. There was no chemistry between MC Brendan and his closeted boyfriend Mark. Having finished reading this book, I would love to be able to give you an overview of the main plot points; but NOTHING happens. There is a start, a middle and an end but nothing of real merit really hapens.
But lets skip the majority of the book to talk about the ending; NOTHING really happens, it just ends. Was there an over-riding arc to the story? Possibly; but for the life of me I really can't remember much about it.
But lets skip the majority of the book to talk about the ending; NOTHING really happens, it just ends. Was there an over-riding arc to the story? Possibly; but for the life of me I really can't remember much about it.
September 11, 2014
Brendan is a high school senior at al all-boys Catholic school in Ohio. He recently accepted the fact that he is gay, but has yet to come out or act on his feelings. He meets Mark, a younger classmate, through Chris, a mutual friend, and is enamored. In his infatuation, Brendan realizes he needs to make a statement to his friends, most of whom are girls, about his sexuality.
While Brendan's coming out is not met with scorn--his good friend Chris is already "out"--he's still nervous about revealing his sexuality to his family. What he actually does is reveal his crush to Mark, who is stunned, but not upset. In fact, Mark is anxious to remain friends. A couple weeks pass, and Brendan is blindsided by Mark's confession of interest.
They begin a relationship, under the agreement that no one know. This causes a lot of problems for Brendan. He has to hide Mark from his friends, and keep his nosy mom out of his business. In fact, his mom picks up on Brendan's sexuality and while Brendan tells he truth, she is upset. She wants him to deny it, and go on pretending he is not gay. It's an awkward experience as they are the only people in the house--it leads to a lot of silence.
The secrets seem to pile up around Brendan, however. He is enjoying his brief, stolen moments with Mark, but his friends begin to notice--and ask questions. Will an accidental "out"ing cause Mark to freak?
I did enjoy this quiet romance. The physicality of their relationship is extremely downplayed--only a few kisses with little description, and one (maybe) hot-n-heavy experience that is completely glossed over. I would have really liked a bit more headiness from Brendan--more exuberance or excitement about the thrill of first love, first contact. His attitude is almost dauntingly even keeled.
Don't get me wrong, I thought Brendan acted very maturely. He was presented with a difficult opportunity for a relationship and he handled it with grace. I just felt the story was a bit superficial when it came to the emotional context. We hear that Brendan cries, for example, but we do not experience his pain, per se, which left me feeling a bit removed as a reader. I suppose this might be okay for some readers, but I wanted more. I wanted to feel Brendan's highs and lows, and instead of getting a thrill ride, I bounced along a lazy river, so to speak.
I do believe this book will resonate with young gay readers, however, and I am glad that it showed some positive relationships in both Brendan and Mark's social/family spheres. Brendan's mom was not my fave--because I'm not the kind of mom who would try to pressure my child into my point of view (case in point, I'm a flaming liberal and my eldest is, gasp, a libertarian), but she still came across as an honest character. Her disappointment, and the fear behind her constant inquisitions, was palpable, even if I didn't agree with her point of view.
I also appreciated how Brendan didn't allow his experience with Mark to shut down his life. He still visited with friends, and performed in the school musical and tennis, and even attended two proms with gal pals. His life went on, and it actually got better, to some degree. That's a very positive message for questioning youth to encounter, and I applaud the effort by the author to write an approachable coming out story where the MC isn't bullied, hazed, disowned or a pariah.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest review.
While Brendan's coming out is not met with scorn--his good friend Chris is already "out"--he's still nervous about revealing his sexuality to his family. What he actually does is reveal his crush to Mark, who is stunned, but not upset. In fact, Mark is anxious to remain friends. A couple weeks pass, and Brendan is blindsided by Mark's confession of interest.
They begin a relationship, under the agreement that no one know. This causes a lot of problems for Brendan. He has to hide Mark from his friends, and keep his nosy mom out of his business. In fact, his mom picks up on Brendan's sexuality and while Brendan tells he truth, she is upset. She wants him to deny it, and go on pretending he is not gay. It's an awkward experience as they are the only people in the house--it leads to a lot of silence.
The secrets seem to pile up around Brendan, however. He is enjoying his brief, stolen moments with Mark, but his friends begin to notice--and ask questions. Will an accidental "out"ing cause Mark to freak?
I did enjoy this quiet romance. The physicality of their relationship is extremely downplayed--only a few kisses with little description, and one (maybe) hot-n-heavy experience that is completely glossed over. I would have really liked a bit more headiness from Brendan--more exuberance or excitement about the thrill of first love, first contact. His attitude is almost dauntingly even keeled.
Don't get me wrong, I thought Brendan acted very maturely. He was presented with a difficult opportunity for a relationship and he handled it with grace. I just felt the story was a bit superficial when it came to the emotional context. We hear that Brendan cries, for example, but we do not experience his pain, per se, which left me feeling a bit removed as a reader. I suppose this might be okay for some readers, but I wanted more. I wanted to feel Brendan's highs and lows, and instead of getting a thrill ride, I bounced along a lazy river, so to speak.
I do believe this book will resonate with young gay readers, however, and I am glad that it showed some positive relationships in both Brendan and Mark's social/family spheres. Brendan's mom was not my fave--because I'm not the kind of mom who would try to pressure my child into my point of view (case in point, I'm a flaming liberal and my eldest is, gasp, a libertarian), but she still came across as an honest character. Her disappointment, and the fear behind her constant inquisitions, was palpable, even if I didn't agree with her point of view.
I also appreciated how Brendan didn't allow his experience with Mark to shut down his life. He still visited with friends, and performed in the school musical and tennis, and even attended two proms with gal pals. His life went on, and it actually got better, to some degree. That's a very positive message for questioning youth to encounter, and I applaud the effort by the author to write an approachable coming out story where the MC isn't bullied, hazed, disowned or a pariah.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest review.
November 4, 2014
Bottled Up Secrets is a great young adult gay romance novel. It is perfectly written for the young adult (probably younger teen) audience. The group of main characters, and I say group because the two characters involved in the romance are part of a small group of friends which holds just as important a place in the plot as the "main characters" do, are any-teens. It is made up of gay boys, straight boys, and straight girls. Brendan is a senior in high school. He is the stereotypical jock/scholar who can go anywhere and do anything with his life. He has just recently accepted the fact that he is gay.
At a cast party (yes, he sings and acts, too) he meets the friend of one of the guys in his little gang of friends, Mark. The attraction and connection is immediate. Brendan isn't out to anyone at all yet, so he has no one to talk to about his attraction to Mark, who is presumably straight. The way Mr. McNamara handled this with kid gloves struck just the right note between innocence and sexual awareness. Mark is very flirtatious and touchy-feely, both with girls and guys.
Mark starts spending more time with the group and the whole "is he or isn't he flirting with me" thing is driving Brendan crazy. He decides to come out to the one friend he trusts above all others. He realizes that keeping his secret from the rest of their friends will cause trouble, but he just isn't ready to tell everyone yet. Kara isn't surprised by the revelation and immediately recognizes the flirty interaction between Brendan and Mark.
Once Brendan finds out Mark isn't completely straight, and that the attraction is mutual, they begin to secretly see each other. The secrecy is at Mark's request. Both boys are virgins. Their exploration of their feelings and burgeoning sexual side is really well written. The innocent nature of it is realistic, as is the way hormones often take over, and if allowed to, will cause you to drift into uncharted territory. All the sex is off page. There are mentions of arousal and descriptions of passionate kissing, but that's about as graphic as it gets.
When something happens that causes Mark (who isn't even out to himself at this point) to pull back from Brendan, it becomes clear immediately that it will be uncomfortable with their group of friends. How can either of them explain Mark not spending time hanging out with them anymore? Even worse, how can they explain the awkwardness between the two of them when the group is together? What about the fact that Brendan's heart is obviously broken over a break-up most of his friends didn't know happened?
As with most secrets, Brendan's and Mark's come out a little bit at a time. Their friends and family all react differently, some immediately supportive, others not so much. The one thing that remains true throughout the book is that the depth of the friendships between all these characters will be the one thing that gets Brendan and Mark through this. Together or separately, the support and love of their closest friends during what is said to be the best time of a young person's life is invaluable.
At a cast party (yes, he sings and acts, too) he meets the friend of one of the guys in his little gang of friends, Mark. The attraction and connection is immediate. Brendan isn't out to anyone at all yet, so he has no one to talk to about his attraction to Mark, who is presumably straight. The way Mr. McNamara handled this with kid gloves struck just the right note between innocence and sexual awareness. Mark is very flirtatious and touchy-feely, both with girls and guys.
Mark starts spending more time with the group and the whole "is he or isn't he flirting with me" thing is driving Brendan crazy. He decides to come out to the one friend he trusts above all others. He realizes that keeping his secret from the rest of their friends will cause trouble, but he just isn't ready to tell everyone yet. Kara isn't surprised by the revelation and immediately recognizes the flirty interaction between Brendan and Mark.
Once Brendan finds out Mark isn't completely straight, and that the attraction is mutual, they begin to secretly see each other. The secrecy is at Mark's request. Both boys are virgins. Their exploration of their feelings and burgeoning sexual side is really well written. The innocent nature of it is realistic, as is the way hormones often take over, and if allowed to, will cause you to drift into uncharted territory. All the sex is off page. There are mentions of arousal and descriptions of passionate kissing, but that's about as graphic as it gets.
When something happens that causes Mark (who isn't even out to himself at this point) to pull back from Brendan, it becomes clear immediately that it will be uncomfortable with their group of friends. How can either of them explain Mark not spending time hanging out with them anymore? Even worse, how can they explain the awkwardness between the two of them when the group is together? What about the fact that Brendan's heart is obviously broken over a break-up most of his friends didn't know happened?
As with most secrets, Brendan's and Mark's come out a little bit at a time. Their friends and family all react differently, some immediately supportive, others not so much. The one thing that remains true throughout the book is that the depth of the friendships between all these characters will be the one thing that gets Brendan and Mark through this. Together or separately, the support and love of their closest friends during what is said to be the best time of a young person's life is invaluable.
September 10, 2014
Also posted at The Story Goes...
I have conflicting feelings for this book. So this book follows Brendan who has just recently come to terms and accepted the fact that he is gay, but he's never dated anyone and he hasn't yet come out. Then he meets Mark, whose cute and funny and they just click, only one minute Marks flirting with him and the next minute he's flirting with some girl. This sets into motion lots of things, including Brendan getting up the courage to come out to his friends, and starting a secret relationship with Mark. Unfortunately secrets only remain secrets for so long...
The story was good, I loved the fact that one of the main gay characters was bi, and I wanted to love this book, but I didn't. It was a really fast paced enjoyable read, but there was a lot of things lacking at the same time.
Let's Talk -
Characters - I really enjoyed Brendan for the most part, he was a pretty likable character, sometimes he said or did things that were abnormal for a 17 year old guy and felt weird, but that's not really a flaw in the story.
The thing is, this book lacked character development. I knew who Brendan was(kinda?) because we were in his head, but the book jumps forward weeks and months, and a lot of it is telling and not showing. I'm not one who loves the hot and heavy scenes(like in Unravel Me), but I want a good swoon worthy first kiss and (first this is me calling attention to the fact that I read an ARC and these things could have changed) in this book we don't get that. We get a part that basically says I lean forward and kiss him...the end. Well not the end but the end of the first kiss. What!? I feel cheated!
Anyways besides that, I never really liked Mark, I loved seeing Brendan fall in love but Mark was selfish and I didn't entirely understand him or what it was they loved about each other. Same with most the other characters, I loved his friends but I wanted to see more of them. This is one of my biggest pet peeves in a book, when there is not nearly enough character development.
Swoons - I expected swoons and this book did not deliver.
The Serious Stuff - Meaning the parts that go beyond swoon and romance. So you have Brendan's mom who wont accept that he's gay. You have Mark who is terrified of coming out and the way people will see him and not willing to so much as ask himself if he's gay or bi or what. And these are big issues that if addressed more could have made this book so much better, but it's as if they were just mentioned to fill a plot hole here and there. I wanted these parts resolved or at least acknowledged in a way they weren't.
Overall - Unfortunately, I think this is one of those books that while I really enjoyed it while I was reading it, the more I think about it the more flaws I find. I will say I think it could have been amazing and that with a few changes it could have been epic. And that overall it is was fun and enjoyable fast paced read.
I have conflicting feelings for this book. So this book follows Brendan who has just recently come to terms and accepted the fact that he is gay, but he's never dated anyone and he hasn't yet come out. Then he meets Mark, whose cute and funny and they just click, only one minute Marks flirting with him and the next minute he's flirting with some girl. This sets into motion lots of things, including Brendan getting up the courage to come out to his friends, and starting a secret relationship with Mark. Unfortunately secrets only remain secrets for so long...
The story was good, I loved the fact that one of the main gay characters was bi, and I wanted to love this book, but I didn't. It was a really fast paced enjoyable read, but there was a lot of things lacking at the same time.
Let's Talk -
Characters - I really enjoyed Brendan for the most part, he was a pretty likable character, sometimes he said or did things that were abnormal for a 17 year old guy and felt weird, but that's not really a flaw in the story.
The thing is, this book lacked character development. I knew who Brendan was(kinda?) because we were in his head, but the book jumps forward weeks and months, and a lot of it is telling and not showing. I'm not one who loves the hot and heavy scenes(like in Unravel Me), but I want a good swoon worthy first kiss and (first this is me calling attention to the fact that I read an ARC and these things could have changed) in this book we don't get that. We get a part that basically says I lean forward and kiss him...the end. Well not the end but the end of the first kiss. What!? I feel cheated!
Anyways besides that, I never really liked Mark, I loved seeing Brendan fall in love but Mark was selfish and I didn't entirely understand him or what it was they loved about each other. Same with most the other characters, I loved his friends but I wanted to see more of them. This is one of my biggest pet peeves in a book, when there is not nearly enough character development.
Swoons - I expected swoons and this book did not deliver.
The Serious Stuff - Meaning the parts that go beyond swoon and romance. So you have Brendan's mom who wont accept that he's gay. You have Mark who is terrified of coming out and the way people will see him and not willing to so much as ask himself if he's gay or bi or what. And these are big issues that if addressed more could have made this book so much better, but it's as if they were just mentioned to fill a plot hole here and there. I wanted these parts resolved or at least acknowledged in a way they weren't.
Overall - Unfortunately, I think this is one of those books that while I really enjoyed it while I was reading it, the more I think about it the more flaws I find. I will say I think it could have been amazing and that with a few changes it could have been epic. And that overall it is was fun and enjoyable fast paced read.
January 7, 2016
You can read more reviews on my blog, Words and Tea Bottles.
A free copy was provided to me through Netgalley in exchange for a review.
Alright so this review is going to start with a story. When I was in college, the popular thing was to post your writing to FictionPress. It was a sometimes simple display site that separated your work by genre. I posted slash, otherwise known as gay romance. Make no mistake, I read it as well, and I was friends with plenty of other people who posted their own.
At least from what I saw, it was most common to have the main characters either high school or college age, making things roughly YA. This was 2008 through 2010 that I was really active on this site, so a few years ago (five years is a long time in internet time). Why am I mentioning this?
Because Bottled-Up Secret honestly reads like something I would have read on Fictionpress. A main character who isn’t stated to be upper class but spends money like he is, main character and friends who think they’re so OMG RANDOM AND WEIRD, a parent who is hardly characterized beyond their irrational disapproval of their child’s sexuality, love at first sight, tons of tell-not-show, manufactured drama, guy who went out with girls and the MC is the first guy he’s ever had feelings for, keeping their relationship a secret for no real reason, biphobia and no real climax. In fact, if I’d made a Cliché Slash Story Bingo Card, the only thing missing would’ve been strange names.
FictionPress was a dark time for me now that I look back on it, to be honest.
Given all this, I have to say I have no idea how this book got published. It really does read exactly like something from back then. It could’ve been an okay if mindless romance story, but it’s marred by uncreativity and a horrible need for some actual editing. I didn’t connect with any characters and didn’t really see what the big deal is with any of their problems.
In other words, I would definitely give this one a pass.
A free copy was provided to me through Netgalley in exchange for a review.
Alright so this review is going to start with a story. When I was in college, the popular thing was to post your writing to FictionPress. It was a sometimes simple display site that separated your work by genre. I posted slash, otherwise known as gay romance. Make no mistake, I read it as well, and I was friends with plenty of other people who posted their own.
At least from what I saw, it was most common to have the main characters either high school or college age, making things roughly YA. This was 2008 through 2010 that I was really active on this site, so a few years ago (five years is a long time in internet time). Why am I mentioning this?
Because Bottled-Up Secret honestly reads like something I would have read on Fictionpress. A main character who isn’t stated to be upper class but spends money like he is, main character and friends who think they’re so OMG RANDOM AND WEIRD, a parent who is hardly characterized beyond their irrational disapproval of their child’s sexuality, love at first sight, tons of tell-not-show, manufactured drama, guy who went out with girls and the MC is the first guy he’s ever had feelings for, keeping their relationship a secret for no real reason, biphobia and no real climax. In fact, if I’d made a Cliché Slash Story Bingo Card, the only thing missing would’ve been strange names.
FictionPress was a dark time for me now that I look back on it, to be honest.
Given all this, I have to say I have no idea how this book got published. It really does read exactly like something from back then. It could’ve been an okay if mindless romance story, but it’s marred by uncreativity and a horrible need for some actual editing. I didn’t connect with any characters and didn’t really see what the big deal is with any of their problems.
In other words, I would definitely give this one a pass.
January 5, 2021
GOOD TEEN COMING OUT STORY.
Always love reading a new novel and despite certain limitations, Brian McNamara's is well worth the read. Seemingly, judging by the author's background notes, this could well be a very autobiographical reminisce.
Narrated by Brendan, it concentrates heavily on the interaction of his decision to finally admit his "gayness" to his close knit group of long time high school pals, most of which appear to be girls. It's a gossipy type of book with lots of café chatter, texting and intimate phone calls centering around Brendan's friendships and activities during and after school.
I often wondered how Brendan had the time to study and those two pet dogs rarely rate a mention let alone a walk as he pursues a very busy social life with the girls and his openly gay friend Chris.
And there is the new boy on the block Mark who Brendan gets infatuated with and to his surprise they start dating; the only problem being that Mark is not "out" and insists the relationship remain secret. Now if you think 2 x 17 year old boys = a lot of hot steamy sex, think again. Apart from some kissing and holding hands at the movies and the occasional innuendo, the affair is basically platonic.
I suppose we should be reassured that in today's "free" and frenetic lifestyle that there are still some teen boys who don't smoke, drink, take drugs, get inked and are not busting out of their jeans at every opportunity.
Overall this teen coming out story is an entertaining, well written romance which will enlighten readers interested in learning more about young gay men as they search for their very special identity without getting bombarded with too much sex. Will also appeal more to young gay readers who identify more with today's "teenage life style."
Always love reading a new novel and despite certain limitations, Brian McNamara's is well worth the read. Seemingly, judging by the author's background notes, this could well be a very autobiographical reminisce.
Narrated by Brendan, it concentrates heavily on the interaction of his decision to finally admit his "gayness" to his close knit group of long time high school pals, most of which appear to be girls. It's a gossipy type of book with lots of café chatter, texting and intimate phone calls centering around Brendan's friendships and activities during and after school.
I often wondered how Brendan had the time to study and those two pet dogs rarely rate a mention let alone a walk as he pursues a very busy social life with the girls and his openly gay friend Chris.
And there is the new boy on the block Mark who Brendan gets infatuated with and to his surprise they start dating; the only problem being that Mark is not "out" and insists the relationship remain secret. Now if you think 2 x 17 year old boys = a lot of hot steamy sex, think again. Apart from some kissing and holding hands at the movies and the occasional innuendo, the affair is basically platonic.
I suppose we should be reassured that in today's "free" and frenetic lifestyle that there are still some teen boys who don't smoke, drink, take drugs, get inked and are not busting out of their jeans at every opportunity.
Overall this teen coming out story is an entertaining, well written romance which will enlighten readers interested in learning more about young gay men as they search for their very special identity without getting bombarded with too much sex. Will also appeal more to young gay readers who identify more with today's "teenage life style."
September 5, 2014
(This Book was provided to me by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.)
Let me just say this book is so good i absolutely love it i flew through this in a couple of hours because it is such an easy read and i could relate to the main character Brendan a lot apart from us sharing the same first name we also share a lot of the same experiences like with his mother and a facade he puts up in front of his family as to perfect in their eyes and while it is not a healthy way to live it helps you get by especially if they have such a view of exactly who they want you to be and if you break that mold then suddenly they treat you with uncertainty and force you to conceal who you really are. Adam and Brendan's love story was probably a doomed endeavour from the start but after their breakup they got back together and stronger than before even though they had to hide their romance from everyone even from friends that knew about them.
This is a really great M/M romance book that brought me to tears at certain parts in the end because of how much Brendan's life reminded me of my own and i think this book did a great job of conveying how teens and people in these sort of relationships and situations may feel. So hats off to you Brian McNamara.
I rate this book 5 stars on my scale because i enjoyed it and i recommend this to anyone that likes M/M romance and contemporary/Coming of Age Stories.
Let me just say this book is so good i absolutely love it i flew through this in a couple of hours because it is such an easy read and i could relate to the main character Brendan a lot apart from us sharing the same first name we also share a lot of the same experiences like with his mother and a facade he puts up in front of his family as to perfect in their eyes and while it is not a healthy way to live it helps you get by especially if they have such a view of exactly who they want you to be and if you break that mold then suddenly they treat you with uncertainty and force you to conceal who you really are. Adam and Brendan's love story was probably a doomed endeavour from the start but after their breakup they got back together and stronger than before even though they had to hide their romance from everyone even from friends that knew about them.
This is a really great M/M romance book that brought me to tears at certain parts in the end because of how much Brendan's life reminded me of my own and i think this book did a great job of conveying how teens and people in these sort of relationships and situations may feel. So hats off to you Brian McNamara.
I rate this book 5 stars on my scale because i enjoyed it and i recommend this to anyone that likes M/M romance and contemporary/Coming of Age Stories.
December 9, 2014
This was a sweet little book about first love. Like so many other ya lgbt books, the main conflict in the book is because one of the boys is (mostly) out, while the other is terrified of people finding out. I know that's a pretty common problem for gay teens, but I've read quite a few books like that already this year, so it's getting a bit old for me.
The main character Brendan is pretty lame - he doesn't drink, smoke, barely swears, and he's still a virgin and plans on staying that way. But I have to admit, he reminded me a lot of my high school self. Seriously, my reasoning for not drinking was exactly the same - it kills brain cells and I wanted to be as smart as possible! lol
The book was written mostly as a rundown/recap of events, without really going into enough on the feeling behind the event. This seems to be a common new author thing. It's not exactly poorly written - it's just not quite well written.
This and other reviews can be found at Folded Between the Pages of Books
The main character Brendan is pretty lame - he doesn't drink, smoke, barely swears, and he's still a virgin and plans on staying that way. But I have to admit, he reminded me a lot of my high school self. Seriously, my reasoning for not drinking was exactly the same - it kills brain cells and I wanted to be as smart as possible! lol
The book was written mostly as a rundown/recap of events, without really going into enough on the feeling behind the event. This seems to be a common new author thing. It's not exactly poorly written - it's just not quite well written.
This and other reviews can be found at Folded Between the Pages of Books
February 27, 2015
I recieved a free copy via NetGalley in return for my honest review.
Although at first the bio didn't exactly excite me,I can easily devour a book in no time. I finished the book overnight and I have to say it was absolutely perfect. If not slightly cliche, but that was allowed because the author was able to pinpoint every single emotion. I could relate to more than half of the things that Brendan went through, it was as if he was a version of me who lived in America. Being able to relate to it so well was probably one of the main reasons I absolutely adored reading this book, a stunning piece of work from an emerging author. Now I'll be keeping my eye keenly on the author, hoping for more news about further novels.
Although at first the bio didn't exactly excite me,I can easily devour a book in no time. I finished the book overnight and I have to say it was absolutely perfect. If not slightly cliche, but that was allowed because the author was able to pinpoint every single emotion. I could relate to more than half of the things that Brendan went through, it was as if he was a version of me who lived in America. Being able to relate to it so well was probably one of the main reasons I absolutely adored reading this book, a stunning piece of work from an emerging author. Now I'll be keeping my eye keenly on the author, hoping for more news about further novels.
January 21, 2015
Nice, but too easy
April 8, 2020
I got this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I have to say I am sooo glad I am trying to put a dent in these review books. This book is just what I needed to get me back in the swing of things.
This book is about a high school senior named Brendon. He is gay. He has not told anyone that he is gay, but is ready to try to be more brave. Brendon has 5 older sisters and a mother that is not accepting of his new choices. He goes to an all boys school and is afraid to tell everyone what he really is. He has a great group of friends, mostly girls. The one guy friend he has is also gay. Things start to change when his gay friend Chris brings in a new friend into the group. His name is Mark. Now Brendon and his best friend are competing for the same guy. Problem is this guy Mark is now flirting with both of them.
After a New years eve party everything will change. He is ready to have the world know what he is and he will also starting dating, but the question is who?
This book is about a high school senior named Brendon. He is gay. He has not told anyone that he is gay, but is ready to try to be more brave. Brendon has 5 older sisters and a mother that is not accepting of his new choices. He goes to an all boys school and is afraid to tell everyone what he really is. He has a great group of friends, mostly girls. The one guy friend he has is also gay. Things start to change when his gay friend Chris brings in a new friend into the group. His name is Mark. Now Brendon and his best friend are competing for the same guy. Problem is this guy Mark is now flirting with both of them.
After a New years eve party everything will change. He is ready to have the world know what he is and he will also starting dating, but the question is who?
December 18, 2022
Thank you to Brian McNamara for providing a realistic account of what could have happened in the early 2000s to an LGBT+ Catholic school student. THANK YOU for your realism and honesty. This was a GREAT read and something I recommend to my middle schoolers when they approach me with concerns about coming out.
May 22, 2022
It isnt the typical boys love book where it's about how the love develops, that aspect is more on the side mainly its about how the couple handles coming out, telling parents and just how other people see them, it isnt my favorite but it's something refreshing once in a while!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2016
This book didn't do anything for me. I didn't love any of the characters and the dialogue felt forced and ugh I just didn't care for it.
August 1, 2018
This was a cute book and a quick read.
November 1, 2014
Bottled Up Secret was okay read in every way. It's also everything what synopsis promised and it was good read after some heavy stories since it's pretty light story. There's problems and happenings that are present in young gay boys life such as coming out to friends and parents, and being in a relationship for a first time. However, Brendan's character wasn't keen to angst or negative thinking which lightened the mood of the story and honestly, I was surprised because of it. Most of young adult coming out stories are heavy, full of angst and sadness and while I do love those kind of stories, Bottled Up Secret was quite different in a good way. Brendan was mature and he had very positive way of thinking and living his life which was so fresh. I enjoyed that particular light, happy and positive theme during the story very much.
However, there was some problems with the story that made the reading experience a little dull. While the characters were really likable and there was great variety of them, I didn't really click with them or love them. It's mostly because while everything was okay with the story, it lacked depth - in every aspect. There was maybe too many characters because it felt like there was too little insight and they all felt swallow, not as persons but overall as characters. Even the main character, Brendan, lacked some depth. He had more it than any other character mainly because it was his point of view but something was still missing. I suspect it's because Brendan's reaction to everything were too meager. I mean, his mom pretty much despised him and tried to control him because he was gay - she treated Brendan poorly, mostly because her actions were too close to emotional abuse. And while Brendan was upset about it, he didn't react much. He talked to his friends but there was too little depth and he didn't even get really angry. Why didn't he throw a fit, yell, do something? Do anything? I waited for the confrontation patiently but there was none and that's the main reason why the story lacked depth and why it wasn't perfect read.
The story had potential and with more depth, more character study and what's most important, more feelings and emotions, the story would have been perfect. Now it was okay, I felt good after finishing but I wasn't satisfied.
I do recommend this for anyone who wants to read a little different coming out and first relationship story because it wasn't bad. Writing was fast paced and enjoyable, characters intriguing and there was great variety of them, and the story itself was solid and good. But if you're looking for something really deep with lots of character developement, then maybe this one isn't for you. However, it's really good book for getting your spirits up with the story's positive, happy and joyous undertone.
(A copy of this ebook was provided in return for an honest review.)
However, there was some problems with the story that made the reading experience a little dull. While the characters were really likable and there was great variety of them, I didn't really click with them or love them. It's mostly because while everything was okay with the story, it lacked depth - in every aspect. There was maybe too many characters because it felt like there was too little insight and they all felt swallow, not as persons but overall as characters. Even the main character, Brendan, lacked some depth. He had more it than any other character mainly because it was his point of view but something was still missing. I suspect it's because Brendan's reaction to everything were too meager. I mean, his mom pretty much despised him and tried to control him because he was gay - she treated Brendan poorly, mostly because her actions were too close to emotional abuse. And while Brendan was upset about it, he didn't react much. He talked to his friends but there was too little depth and he didn't even get really angry. Why didn't he throw a fit, yell, do something? Do anything? I waited for the confrontation patiently but there was none and that's the main reason why the story lacked depth and why it wasn't perfect read.
The story had potential and with more depth, more character study and what's most important, more feelings and emotions, the story would have been perfect. Now it was okay, I felt good after finishing but I wasn't satisfied.
I do recommend this for anyone who wants to read a little different coming out and first relationship story because it wasn't bad. Writing was fast paced and enjoyable, characters intriguing and there was great variety of them, and the story itself was solid and good. But if you're looking for something really deep with lots of character developement, then maybe this one isn't for you. However, it's really good book for getting your spirits up with the story's positive, happy and joyous undertone.
(A copy of this ebook was provided in return for an honest review.)
March 1, 2017
Started off promising but got bored real fast. Didn't feel the chemistry. Got about 60% thru then skimmed the rest.
December 4, 2014
Brian McNamara based the plot of Bottled Up Secret on his own high school experiences and I think, because of this, the confusion, adoration and sadness felt by Brendan are emotions we can believe.
Bottled Up Secret is perhaps not the best gay novel I have read but it is aimed perfectly at a young adult audience. Do not read this story if you are expecting graphic sexual scenes, because Brian McNamara avoids these. I think this is an excellent decision on his part. Mark and Brendan are experiencing their first homosexual kisses and intimate moments and we share in the tenderness of this, rather than it being merely lust.
The mix of personalities in the story are intriguing and I think at times Brendan’s friendships overshadow his relationship with Mark. Yet it also reminds us that Bottled Up Secret is a coming of age story, as much as it is a romance. Brendan is fully recognizing his sexuality and admitting it to his friends and family. This is important because he no longer feels he has to play parts to suit each occasion and instead he can truly be himself.
Mark is a difficult character because of the way he does not appear totally committed to his relationship with Brendan and at times his actions made me frustrated. He admits that he has had a long-term girlfriend and that before meeting Brendan he has never been attracted to someone of his own gender. I think this message makes the book more accessible to young adult readers who may be confused about their sexual orientation and if my sons are ever in this position I would quite happily give them Bottled Up Secret to read.
One big thing that really bothered me about the story was the amount of stereotypes the author uses. I would like to think that Brian McNamara does this in a tongue in cheek fashion, but every time something of this kind was said I felt disappointed.
“I figured having almost exclusively female or gay friends and being an active musical theater performer would be enough for anyone to at least suspect.”
Bottled Up Secret is clearly a novel with an agenda and I think Brian McNamara clearly delivers the simple message that love is strong enough to break through all barriers.
Brian McNamara’s book is one I would recommend adding to a TBR pile, particularly for anyone who is a fan of this genre.
Bottled Up Secret is perhaps not the best gay novel I have read but it is aimed perfectly at a young adult audience. Do not read this story if you are expecting graphic sexual scenes, because Brian McNamara avoids these. I think this is an excellent decision on his part. Mark and Brendan are experiencing their first homosexual kisses and intimate moments and we share in the tenderness of this, rather than it being merely lust.
The mix of personalities in the story are intriguing and I think at times Brendan’s friendships overshadow his relationship with Mark. Yet it also reminds us that Bottled Up Secret is a coming of age story, as much as it is a romance. Brendan is fully recognizing his sexuality and admitting it to his friends and family. This is important because he no longer feels he has to play parts to suit each occasion and instead he can truly be himself.
Mark is a difficult character because of the way he does not appear totally committed to his relationship with Brendan and at times his actions made me frustrated. He admits that he has had a long-term girlfriend and that before meeting Brendan he has never been attracted to someone of his own gender. I think this message makes the book more accessible to young adult readers who may be confused about their sexual orientation and if my sons are ever in this position I would quite happily give them Bottled Up Secret to read.
One big thing that really bothered me about the story was the amount of stereotypes the author uses. I would like to think that Brian McNamara does this in a tongue in cheek fashion, but every time something of this kind was said I felt disappointed.
“I figured having almost exclusively female or gay friends and being an active musical theater performer would be enough for anyone to at least suspect.”
Bottled Up Secret is clearly a novel with an agenda and I think Brian McNamara clearly delivers the simple message that love is strong enough to break through all barriers.
Brian McNamara’s book is one I would recommend adding to a TBR pile, particularly for anyone who is a fan of this genre.
March 12, 2015
*This Book was provided to me by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.*
Bottled up secret was a interesting read, it was a great story about the life of how some teenage boys deal with being gay. It’s great because it goes into these issues and even has a kid who loves our main character but is afraid of people finding out.
I would have given a higher rating but I had a few issues with this book. The plot was great but the way it was brought about wasn’t. The beginning was great, I laughed and fell in love with the characters. Then the skipping of scenes started to happen. It took me a while to figure out why I started to get bored and I figured it out real fast. The book would jump ahead so instead of us being in a curtain setting reading what is happening the book would just have Brendan explain what happens in those days,weeks or months. It made me annoyed because I had such high hopes for this book during the beginning. I also found the plot line with the mom a bit weak. It didn’t seem real to me, not really sure why.
What I did love though were the characters. Brendan was cute, he took things in stride and never pushed mark for anything more then he could give. Though I would have loved to have seen more settings with him and tennis since that’s all he ever talked about in the book but again the book would have Brendan tell what happen and never have the setting take place at tennis tournament.
He has great friends like Kara and Reese, who look out for him. Then you have Chris and open gay kid and a cool one at that. It made Brendan more comfortable with his situation.
Then you have Mark a great character and so open to new things. He and Brendan were so cute. I loved the situation that happens between the two, showing that not all relationships are smooth from the start.
In the end I really enjoyed the beginning of the book and I did read it till the end I just wish for something more.
Bottled up secret was a interesting read, it was a great story about the life of how some teenage boys deal with being gay. It’s great because it goes into these issues and even has a kid who loves our main character but is afraid of people finding out.
I would have given a higher rating but I had a few issues with this book. The plot was great but the way it was brought about wasn’t. The beginning was great, I laughed and fell in love with the characters. Then the skipping of scenes started to happen. It took me a while to figure out why I started to get bored and I figured it out real fast. The book would jump ahead so instead of us being in a curtain setting reading what is happening the book would just have Brendan explain what happens in those days,weeks or months. It made me annoyed because I had such high hopes for this book during the beginning. I also found the plot line with the mom a bit weak. It didn’t seem real to me, not really sure why.
What I did love though were the characters. Brendan was cute, he took things in stride and never pushed mark for anything more then he could give. Though I would have loved to have seen more settings with him and tennis since that’s all he ever talked about in the book but again the book would have Brendan tell what happen and never have the setting take place at tennis tournament.
He has great friends like Kara and Reese, who look out for him. Then you have Chris and open gay kid and a cool one at that. It made Brendan more comfortable with his situation.
Then you have Mark a great character and so open to new things. He and Brendan were so cute. I loved the situation that happens between the two, showing that not all relationships are smooth from the start.
In the end I really enjoyed the beginning of the book and I did read it till the end I just wish for something more.
November 1, 2015
I connected with Brenden a lot more than I expected to. We both live in Ohio, we're both seniors, and we're both going to OSU for school. These three things made the story so much more relatable for me which is a factor I really appreciated. Its nice to have character and setting from your state and to know about the cities they're talking about verses reading about a place I've never been like *cough cough* California for a change. I also really enjoyed his almost chronicle of his senior year of high school. I'm in my senior year and its interesting to see his take on things and what I have to look forward to in the months ahead.
I read the summary on the back of the book when I was in the library. I think the events of this book would have been more surprising if I hadn't. Instead of me thinking 'Are Mark and Brenden going to get together?' it was 'When will Mark and Brenden get together?'
I wish the ending was different and that Mark came out but I can't have it all can I? Although there is a second book that came out this year so who knows what entails in that one.
I would have liked to see Mark's Croatian cultural family ties explained a little more. I got the feeling that is why he didn't want to come out so much but who knows. It was just kind of a plot point that wasn't explored as much as I thought it would have been once it came up. But then again I don't know if that was the author's intent.
It was fun and I didn't expect much going into it. If you take it as a coming of age, high school story then it is worth a try.
I read the summary on the back of the book when I was in the library. I think the events of this book would have been more surprising if I hadn't. Instead of me thinking 'Are Mark and Brenden going to get together?' it was 'When will Mark and Brenden get together?'
I wish the ending was different and that Mark came out but I can't have it all can I? Although there is a second book that came out this year so who knows what entails in that one.
I would have liked to see Mark's Croatian cultural family ties explained a little more. I got the feeling that is why he didn't want to come out so much but who knows. It was just kind of a plot point that wasn't explored as much as I thought it would have been once it came up. But then again I don't know if that was the author's intent.
It was fun and I didn't expect much going into it. If you take it as a coming of age, high school story then it is worth a try.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2014
Bottled Up Secret is Brian McNamara's roman a clef. He drew on his personal life experiences to create the story. In it, Brendan and Mark have a secret hot-cold relationship that meets some bumps in the road. Brendan has just come out to his friends, but Mark's not ready, so he's still closeted. They are definitely infatuated, if not in love, with each other, but Mark's life circumstances prevent them from sharing their joy with anyone else. Of course, this causes problems along the way. Do they wind up together in the end? Guess you'll have to read the book to find out!
This was a pretty good YA book. I was pretty into the story. It kept me interested, and there were some parts that I hadn't expected, which was a nice surprise. The thing that knocked my rating down was that I didn't feel that the writing was completely relatable. Usually, in a YA novel, the dialog reflects the way YAs talk, and the writing is a little less formal. I found myself reading more slowly, as this book was less conversational and more focused on technical correctness (grammar, punctuation, proper sentence structure).
I'd recommend this book to YAs who might be questioning their own sexuality, YAs who are unsure about coming out, or YAs who are just interested in a good story about a high school romance.
This was a pretty good YA book. I was pretty into the story. It kept me interested, and there were some parts that I hadn't expected, which was a nice surprise. The thing that knocked my rating down was that I didn't feel that the writing was completely relatable. Usually, in a YA novel, the dialog reflects the way YAs talk, and the writing is a little less formal. I found myself reading more slowly, as this book was less conversational and more focused on technical correctness (grammar, punctuation, proper sentence structure).
I'd recommend this book to YAs who might be questioning their own sexuality, YAs who are unsure about coming out, or YAs who are just interested in a good story about a high school romance.
September 27, 2014
I like reading books like this one because I enjoy reading about a love story or a friendship, doesn't matter if there is a girl and a boy, two girls or two boys.
But I had some issues too with this one. The writing style was ok, but didn't impressed me and sometimes I felt left out of the story and I couldn't sympathize with the characters. And I think that is a minus, because in this book is about emotions and feeling and discovering yourself; and if I, as a reader, can't feel then the characters can understand and feel what the others are feeling and saying? I don't know if I make any sense but...
Maybe if I were younger then I would have enjoyed more and understood more the characters. This is not a bad book, I enjoyed it, I liked Brendan and Mark, and their friendship and relationship but it's not my favorite.
You can check this out, maybe will be your next favorite or you'll see the characters as new friends. But for me will remain just a cute novel that I finished and enjoyed, with ok idea and ok plot and ok everything.
!Received through NetGalley!
But I had some issues too with this one. The writing style was ok, but didn't impressed me and sometimes I felt left out of the story and I couldn't sympathize with the characters. And I think that is a minus, because in this book is about emotions and feeling and discovering yourself; and if I, as a reader, can't feel then the characters can understand and feel what the others are feeling and saying? I don't know if I make any sense but...
Maybe if I were younger then I would have enjoyed more and understood more the characters. This is not a bad book, I enjoyed it, I liked Brendan and Mark, and their friendship and relationship but it's not my favorite.
You can check this out, maybe will be your next favorite or you'll see the characters as new friends. But for me will remain just a cute novel that I finished and enjoyed, with ok idea and ok plot and ok everything.
!Received through NetGalley!
September 11, 2014
2.5ish
Brendan is a happy little High School Senior with friends and a big ole secret, He's gay. Just coming to terms with it himself he hasn't told any of his friends also, he has a huge crush on one of his friend's boyfriend, Mark. Mark is cool funny and they get along great and every time they talk it seems like Mark is flirting with him. Does he feel the same about him? or is he just the unconsciously flirt with everyone kind of guy? Turns out feelings are reciprocated and they start dating on the DL but keeping secrets from everyone you care about is hard maybe too hard for their fledgling romance to survive.
I didn't really connect with this book mostly 'cause of the writing style it just felt so vague and not well written. The story had potential, I love High School students coming to terms with their sexuality and exploring new feelings but this story just didn't deliver.
Brendan is a happy little High School Senior with friends and a big ole secret, He's gay. Just coming to terms with it himself he hasn't told any of his friends also, he has a huge crush on one of his friend's boyfriend, Mark. Mark is cool funny and they get along great and every time they talk it seems like Mark is flirting with him. Does he feel the same about him? or is he just the unconsciously flirt with everyone kind of guy? Turns out feelings are reciprocated and they start dating on the DL but keeping secrets from everyone you care about is hard maybe too hard for their fledgling romance to survive.
I didn't really connect with this book mostly 'cause of the writing style it just felt so vague and not well written. The story had potential, I love High School students coming to terms with their sexuality and exploring new feelings but this story just didn't deliver.
September 15, 2014
Brendan is attracted to boys and comfortable with his sexuality but it is pretty much the focus of his life. He has had same sex crushes but never a relationship until he embarks on a relationship with Mark. This relationship is both wonderful and difficult for Brendan. Mark isn't out to his friends and isn't comfortable with his sexuality - he is afraid of his feelings for Brendan. Brendan is out to his friends but not to his family and he doesn't want to hide his relationship with Mark. Then Mark and Brendan are caught by Mark's sister and Mark runs from the relationship instead of working through his issues.
There need to be more books like this on the shelves of our libraries but this book felt like a book written for struggling readers. It didn't flow well with simple sentences that were choppy and didactic.
There need to be more books like this on the shelves of our libraries but this book felt like a book written for struggling readers. It didn't flow well with simple sentences that were choppy and didactic.
November 6, 2015
"Bottled Up Secret" wasn't great, but it wasn't horrible either. This story was pretty engaging, but the characters were kind of difficult to connect with. I don't think there was enough conflict in the story, however, as the friendship/boyfriend theme was pretty much the only focus of the story. Also, there were a few scenes where the characters tried to psychoanalyze themselves and the dialogue (and internal monologue) just wasn't believable. After reading the Author Bio, though, It's pretty obvious that this is pretty much a diary about his high school experience. His life is pretty much the plot of this novel, so in that respect, I think I can understand some of the creative decisions McNamara made with the narrative. Overall, this was a pretty good read.
December 25, 2014
"I'm Michelle Kwan at the Olympics"
I love the humor and authenticity of this book.
If I were questioning my sexuality as a teen, I would have loved to have this book as a companion. When you think about the complexities of adolescents and high school, I never thought of the added hurdles my LGBT friends endured. Being excited/nervous about a first kiss is stressful, having that coupled with the worry of what others will think when they find out WHO you want to kiss. And in a catholic high school! I can't imagine.
Loved this book! Hope there is a sequel!
I love the humor and authenticity of this book.
If I were questioning my sexuality as a teen, I would have loved to have this book as a companion. When you think about the complexities of adolescents and high school, I never thought of the added hurdles my LGBT friends endured. Being excited/nervous about a first kiss is stressful, having that coupled with the worry of what others will think when they find out WHO you want to kiss. And in a catholic high school! I can't imagine.
Loved this book! Hope there is a sequel!
November 5, 2014
Bottled Up Secret by Brian McNamara is a coming out/coming of age book about Brendan who knows he is gay. He starts a secret relationship with Mark, who is questioning his sexuality. The book isn’t great, but it’s a reasonably realistic and cute YA book about two boys getting together.
But it combines two of my least favorite things about m/m gay romances:
You can read the rest of my review at bisexual-books.tumblr.com
But it combines two of my least favorite things about m/m gay romances:
You can read the rest of my review at bisexual-books.tumblr.com
December 26, 2015
I loved the fact that this book ends well. The story is nothing pecial, but the characters are funny and normal and it is quite realistic. I enjoyed reading it, it is not annoying, all the moments kept my attention on the storyline. If you want to read a historically exciting and dramatic book, it is not the book you want, but if you just want to quit the real world to an other realistic fictional story which is really lovely, you can't find better. The main characters are struggeling with their problems, but they can always be happy. To sum up, I loved it.
April 26, 2015
Story is about two coming out in 2 ways
First, I felt it was very unrealistic of the author to write about two guy's dating for several months in this day and age and not at least have mutual masturbation, when oral sex is so in with teenagers straight and gay. This book is decent, but there are many better coming out stories to spend money on. The author is very young and will mature as he continues to write.
First, I felt it was very unrealistic of the author to write about two guy's dating for several months in this day and age and not at least have mutual masturbation, when oral sex is so in with teenagers straight and gay. This book is decent, but there are many better coming out stories to spend money on. The author is very young and will mature as he continues to write.
September 6, 2014
Not my usual book but it was worth the read.
I found the dialogue 'flat' in a 'matter of fact' sort of way.
The story line was good, and based on actual life events of the author.
I'm sure many out there could relate to this book, for them I'm sure it would earn 5 stars.
Give it a try..
I found the dialogue 'flat' in a 'matter of fact' sort of way.
The story line was good, and based on actual life events of the author.
I'm sure many out there could relate to this book, for them I'm sure it would earn 5 stars.
Give it a try..
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews