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Diner Days
Cramming at Randy's
These study buddies are getting randy.
Love beyond the serving up eleven low angst trans romances at Randy's Diner
Cramming at Randy’s is an X/X friends to lovers romance between a newly out demi-boy transfer student and an openly genderqueer older student who helps him find the confidence to be himself.
Love beyond the serving up eleven low angst trans romances at Randy's Diner
Cramming at Randy’s is an X/X friends to lovers romance between a newly out demi-boy transfer student and an openly genderqueer older student who helps him find the confidence to be himself.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2024
20 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
September 27, 2024
An easy read! 3☆.
We have very good moments through out the book. With a HFN super cute! Our MCs exuded cuteness, so respectful of each other. And they brought healing to their lives in a way that was very beautiful and rare! The intimate scenes were very thoughtful and the readers get to read a different perspective on many levels.
Thank you, Alex Silver for a chance to read this book for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
A few small details could've been easily overlooked, but they bothered me: 1)the aunts sudden irrelevance, 2)Ray's repetitive spiraling monologues, and 3)Jordie's denial.
1)When Ray's aunts were introduced, I thought they were going to play a bigger role. Because why introduce two side characters who were described to be SO COOL, only to completely ignore them? Well, that was a bit of a let down.
2)There were too many repetitive spirals from Ray. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed Ray!, but it became kinda tedious sometimes.
3)Jordie got on my nerves with the constant "I cannot/I will not date baby queers" thing. We already know that, babes—that's the whole point of the story! It felt unnecessary to keep repeating it...
(Honestly, I don’t think it was the characters' fault. I just didn’t connect all of the time with the book.)
The only side characters I tolerated were Jordie's family, Celeste, and the aunts. Ray goes on outings with them, but it’s mentioned so briefly and vaguely. The rest of the characters felt like background noise (that I had to tune out, for they felt a bit too much like teens - 😬 sorry).
Now, about the one awful side character: Jacob! *🙄
start of rant*
Jacob was supposed to be the comedic relief, but he wasn’t funny at all. None of his "jokes" landed for me. Quite the opposite—his entire presence made me cringe. He was gross, rude, and disrespectful. Here are a few quotes that show how unbearable he was:
》 "I saw Ray staring at him across the table with all the usual awestruck signs of being addled by Jacob’s charm and good looks." 《
-"Charm"?! Where?? Jacob made both Ray and Jordie uncomfortable multiple times (like 3 or more times). Dislike doesn’t even begin to describe how I fe,t about him!
》 “You mean back off because you’ve got dibs?” Jacob flicks his eyes over me, like he’s sizing up the competition.
His gaze makes me uncomfortable, mostly because Ray isn’t a prize to be won and even the implication otherwise makes my stomach squirm."《 Jordie also describes Jacob as "punk" and having "pale emo rockstar type with the movie star smile". That Should Not be an excuse for rude and gross behavior (towards one's peers nonetheless! Seriously🤦, I mean...).
》"Jacob has mentioned a few times, with his campiest faux-flirtatious posturing, that I should make a move or bring Ray around so that he can. It’s a joke, and knowing Jacob, he’s been teasing me about Ray to goad me into acting on what he sees as a crush; helping in his own uniquely Jacob way. It still revs up all my protective instincts toward Ray..."《
-Seriously, EW! How is that funny? Jacob’s behavior was consistently inappropriate, and calling him "punk" or having a "movie star smile" DOES NOT justify it. He was just rude.
》Again Jordie's POV: “Or we can expand other parts of him.” Jacob waggles his eyebrows suggestively. Pixel jabs an elbow into his ribs before I can, and most of the rest of us side eye him. “What? All in good fun,” Jacob says defensively.
“Jacob’s being a pig, but it really will be fun. Ray seemed really chill the other night,” Sheila says, turning her back toward Jacob.
“Yeah, we all want to get to know any guy who can turn your head, Jords,” Celeste says.《
- 😑
And the cherry on top (😖):
》Jordie's POV: "Jacob slings his arm around me again. He braces his other hand on my shoulder. This time his forearm goes across my chest, mashing my bra into me. I shudder at the way it feels for my boobs to be all disarranged and moving in ways they shouldn’t. It forces me to confront the ways my body doesn’t quite fit, the dysphoria surging through me in a nauseating wave.
“Quit it!” I shove Jacob off and aggressively fix my flowery blouse.
He holds up his hands like I’m overreacting. “Sorry, geez. Sensitive much?”《
-Sensitive much? Excuse me! What in the actual ****?
Jacob's presence was infuriating, and I honestly wish there were fewer scenes with him. Or none at all! He seriously needs to do some soul searching! *end of rant 🙃*
Now Jordie being awesome:
》Jordie's POV: “Yeah, I guess. I just… want to be a normal guy.” He picks at the tight clothes. Yep, those pants are a definite nope.
“What’s normal?” I ask, his question rubbing against my insecurities. I tell most people that normal is a city in Illinois, but I went through a similar phase. Nothing good came of trying to suppress what I knew about myself to fit other people’s norms. I want to spare Ray from going through that if I can. “You can be a normal guy with long hair, or who wears sexy skinny jeans, or one who wears baggy joggers, or whatever makes you feel comfortable with yourself. Anyone who tells you there’s one right way to be yourself is a liar.”《
🥹👏👏👏 This quote really hits the mark.
Socials | BookBub | StoryGraph | Reviews On Goodreads
We have very good moments through out the book. With a HFN super cute! Our MCs exuded cuteness, so respectful of each other. And they brought healing to their lives in a way that was very beautiful and rare! The intimate scenes were very thoughtful and the readers get to read a different perspective on many levels.
Thank you, Alex Silver for a chance to read this book for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
A few small details could've been easily overlooked, but they bothered me: 1)the aunts sudden irrelevance, 2)Ray's repetitive spiraling monologues, and 3)Jordie's denial.
1)When Ray's aunts were introduced, I thought they were going to play a bigger role. Because why introduce two side characters who were described to be SO COOL, only to completely ignore them? Well, that was a bit of a let down.
2)There were too many repetitive spirals from Ray. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed Ray!, but it became kinda tedious sometimes.
3)Jordie got on my nerves with the constant "I cannot/I will not date baby queers" thing. We already know that, babes—that's the whole point of the story! It felt unnecessary to keep repeating it...
(Honestly, I don’t think it was the characters' fault. I just didn’t connect all of the time with the book.)
The only side characters I tolerated were Jordie's family, Celeste, and the aunts. Ray goes on outings with them, but it’s mentioned so briefly and vaguely. The rest of the characters felt like background noise (that I had to tune out, for they felt a bit too much like teens - 😬 sorry).
Now, about the one awful side character: Jacob! *🙄
start of rant*
Jacob was supposed to be the comedic relief, but he wasn’t funny at all. None of his "jokes" landed for me. Quite the opposite—his entire presence made me cringe. He was gross, rude, and disrespectful. Here are a few quotes that show how unbearable he was:
》 "I saw Ray staring at him across the table with all the usual awestruck signs of being addled by Jacob’s charm and good looks." 《
-"Charm"?! Where?? Jacob made both Ray and Jordie uncomfortable multiple times (like 3 or more times). Dislike doesn’t even begin to describe how I fe,t about him!
》 “You mean back off because you’ve got dibs?” Jacob flicks his eyes over me, like he’s sizing up the competition.
His gaze makes me uncomfortable, mostly because Ray isn’t a prize to be won and even the implication otherwise makes my stomach squirm."《 Jordie also describes Jacob as "punk" and having "pale emo rockstar type with the movie star smile". That Should Not be an excuse for rude and gross behavior (towards one's peers nonetheless! Seriously🤦, I mean...).
》"Jacob has mentioned a few times, with his campiest faux-flirtatious posturing, that I should make a move or bring Ray around so that he can. It’s a joke, and knowing Jacob, he’s been teasing me about Ray to goad me into acting on what he sees as a crush; helping in his own uniquely Jacob way. It still revs up all my protective instincts toward Ray..."《
-Seriously, EW! How is that funny? Jacob’s behavior was consistently inappropriate, and calling him "punk" or having a "movie star smile" DOES NOT justify it. He was just rude.
》Again Jordie's POV: “Or we can expand other parts of him.” Jacob waggles his eyebrows suggestively. Pixel jabs an elbow into his ribs before I can, and most of the rest of us side eye him. “What? All in good fun,” Jacob says defensively.
“Jacob’s being a pig, but it really will be fun. Ray seemed really chill the other night,” Sheila says, turning her back toward Jacob.
“Yeah, we all want to get to know any guy who can turn your head, Jords,” Celeste says.《
- 😑
And the cherry on top (😖):
》Jordie's POV: "Jacob slings his arm around me again. He braces his other hand on my shoulder. This time his forearm goes across my chest, mashing my bra into me. I shudder at the way it feels for my boobs to be all disarranged and moving in ways they shouldn’t. It forces me to confront the ways my body doesn’t quite fit, the dysphoria surging through me in a nauseating wave.
“Quit it!” I shove Jacob off and aggressively fix my flowery blouse.
He holds up his hands like I’m overreacting. “Sorry, geez. Sensitive much?”《
-Sensitive much? Excuse me! What in the actual ****?
Jacob's presence was infuriating, and I honestly wish there were fewer scenes with him. Or none at all! He seriously needs to do some soul searching! *end of rant 🙃*
Now Jordie being awesome:
》Jordie's POV: “Yeah, I guess. I just… want to be a normal guy.” He picks at the tight clothes. Yep, those pants are a definite nope.
“What’s normal?” I ask, his question rubbing against my insecurities. I tell most people that normal is a city in Illinois, but I went through a similar phase. Nothing good came of trying to suppress what I knew about myself to fit other people’s norms. I want to spare Ray from going through that if I can. “You can be a normal guy with long hair, or who wears sexy skinny jeans, or one who wears baggy joggers, or whatever makes you feel comfortable with yourself. Anyone who tells you there’s one right way to be yourself is a liar.”《
🥹👏👏👏 This quote really hits the mark.
Socials | BookBub | StoryGraph | Reviews On Goodreads
November 8, 2025
I'm really enjoying this series.
The fact that they are all by different authors gives each a unique feel. I love that they have a lot of cross over characters though.
The fact that they are all by different authors gives each a unique feel. I love that they have a lot of cross over characters though.
September 2, 2024
Another much needed dose of pure trans joy.
Even though most of the time I wanted to have a Very Stern Talk with Jordie, I definitely understand insecurity and Big Feels that you can’t really control. Yay BPD.
Still, I guess I go the opposite way and have no problem talking about my bullshit, so it makes me super hella frustrated with MCs that can’t seem to openly communicate issues to resolve them in a healthy way. Like, I guess I feel especially incensed about it when I read queer books because it’s basically going against everything we all preach to others, and it’s not very kind or accepting or… something. It gives judgy as fuck? Maybe? And that energy isn’t what we should be fostering for ourselves and our loved ones. We need to respect ourselves more than all of that.
I digress.
I absolutely adored these characters, and Randy’s is still the best. The interconnection is heavy, and everything felt like an extension of the first book in the series. They don’t feel like they belong to different worlds and have nothing to do with each other and that makes me happy stim. The story was beautiful and full of hope and joy, and cheering on Ray reminded me of all the times I’ve cheered for my loves in real life as they found and became the realest version of themselves.
4.5/5. The story could’ve come off heavy, but the author did a fantastic job of giving it the light and hope it needed to feel like the warmest, gentlest hug, and I was here for every word of it. This series is already one of my all-time favourites. Every book leaves me rabid for the next and with a heart that’s sore from holding so many amazing feelings. Kind-of like when your body is sore from laughing too much, but with love instead of humour.
**[I received an ARC from the author. All ratings, reviews, and opinions are my own.]**
Even though most of the time I wanted to have a Very Stern Talk with Jordie, I definitely understand insecurity and Big Feels that you can’t really control. Yay BPD.
Still, I guess I go the opposite way and have no problem talking about my bullshit, so it makes me super hella frustrated with MCs that can’t seem to openly communicate issues to resolve them in a healthy way. Like, I guess I feel especially incensed about it when I read queer books because it’s basically going against everything we all preach to others, and it’s not very kind or accepting or… something. It gives judgy as fuck? Maybe? And that energy isn’t what we should be fostering for ourselves and our loved ones. We need to respect ourselves more than all of that.
I digress.
I absolutely adored these characters, and Randy’s is still the best. The interconnection is heavy, and everything felt like an extension of the first book in the series. They don’t feel like they belong to different worlds and have nothing to do with each other and that makes me happy stim. The story was beautiful and full of hope and joy, and cheering on Ray reminded me of all the times I’ve cheered for my loves in real life as they found and became the realest version of themselves.
4.5/5. The story could’ve come off heavy, but the author did a fantastic job of giving it the light and hope it needed to feel like the warmest, gentlest hug, and I was here for every word of it. This series is already one of my all-time favourites. Every book leaves me rabid for the next and with a heart that’s sore from holding so many amazing feelings. Kind-of like when your body is sore from laughing too much, but with love instead of humour.
**[I received an ARC from the author. All ratings, reviews, and opinions are my own.]**
September 5, 2024
Ray moves to Boston to learn to be their true authentic self without the pressure of family to hold them back. At university, they meet Jordie, an openly beautiful gender queer student who guides them and eventually falls for. These two have a sweet innocent to them in ways while being hot when not in public. Yes, Ray is learning their identity still as a demiboy, but not their sexuality as bisexual. I think that is what helps Jordie, who has been burned in the past, be more open with the idea of a relationship. Their is an underlying angst throughout the story, but to be honest, it makes the story feel more real for me. Yes, they are sweet, but you feel the tension of understanding ones true self to be open and free. The meeting of the families on both sides is beautiful and hilarious in different ways, just showing how much of a support system they have. I
October 26, 2024
4 Self Discovery Stars
ARC Read: 01/09/2024
I received this ebook for free and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Alex Silver for this gift. 🥰
What to expect from this book? 🤔
❤️🔥Adult XX Trans Romance 🥵💦
🌈🏳️⚧️👉A Genderqueer & A Demiboy MCs
👌Friends To Lovers
🤯 Self Discovery Journey
📖✍️ Study Buddies (Forced Proximity Vibes)
☀️ Sunshine Simp x 🧁 Possessive Protector
😳 Insta-Crush (So Lots Of Blushing)
👉Coming Out
👉👉 Slow Burn 👈👈
🤏 Just A Bit Of Angst
👉Bisexual Rep
🌍 Very well written… it felt real to me! 😥
😌🙌 ATTENTION: This Book Is The Safest Place For Queer People To Laugh And Enjoy Themselves
Series: Diner Days #3
Cover: 5/5
Ebook: ARC
Story: 4/5
I have to be honest: I had mixed feelings about this book.
Is the book good? Yes.
Is the story enthralling? Yes.
Did Ray keep me captivated? YES
Did the book drag on with unnecessary details about studying and the daily life of college? Unfortunately, yes. 😔
It didn’t help that the book was a Slow Burn.
I KNOW that’s on me, and I KNOW it was the only thing that made sense bc of Ray’s journey of self-discovery and the dysphoria he was going through.
But it doesn’t make me like it more… I strongly dislike Slow Burns, so that’s completely on me.
But why can’t I give it 3 stars? At the start of the book, we see Ray struggling to come out and find his true identity… that struck me deeply.
I couldn’t stop reading… I was completely enthralled!
It’s very difficult to put into words what Ray made feel… compassion, sadness toward the world we live in, authenticity…. I feel companionship and affinity toward Ray.
Everything he experienced regarding identity, the automatic cis-normative expectations that society taught us to want… the haircut, the clothes… it resonated with me.
And instead of make me sad that he was experience all that, it had the exact opposite effect. It felt like a refreshing breath of air, like the first sip you take of your warm beverage, I felt energized… it made me feel unstoppable! To tackle every thing society even thinks throwing my way!
Don’t get me wrong I here talking only about Ray but I love Jordie. Their compassion for others, their struggles with confidence in themselves, and their hesitant trust in others… were inspiring.
So YES, I loved this book.
Did I love the beginning more? Yes, but there’s nothing wrong with that, sometimes that happens even when you don’t want it to.
Thank you for making Ray real. For a 24 yo, non binary, gender fluid person who had to live as AFAB, I endured being seen by society as AFAB…. it made feel whole, so thank you, Alex Silver. Thank you for the ARC and thank you for creating Ray and Jordie!
That’s why I can only, with a clear conscious, rate this 4 stars.
This book has trans/non binary realness, feel-good vibes, loads of queer rep, beautiful friendships, a bit of angst, sweet study dates at the diner *dreamy sigh*, lovable characters, and self-discovery moments..
Genre/Trope: Adult/XX Trans Romance/Forced Proximity/Friends To Lovers College/New Adult/LGTBQIA Plus/Love X-X/New Authors/Slow-Burn/Low Angst/Sweet Tooth/Bisexual Rep/Enby-X Rep/Trans Rep/ARC
Content/Trigger Warnings:
Plot: 3/5
POV: 2
Main Characters:
5/5 – Ray, nickname Sunshine, he, 21yo, demiboy, Canadian, loves poutine
5/5 – Jordie, they, 23yo, genderqueer, American, loves sweets
I really loved their little moments together, sharing sweets and being there for each other! 🥰
Jordie's help and friendship is the most beautiful thing in the universe!
Side Characters: 2/5
As always, the Diner was perfect.
Jordie’s friends were all very cute and friendly……. except Jacob 😑.
I feel very protective of Ray and Jordie, so when Jacob, who was “supposed to be just friendly and goofy”, approached to Ray and started relentlessly flirting with him, it really annoyed me.
He just wouldn’t take the hint that Ray wasn’t enjoying it, and that it WASN’T funny…
Plus, it made Jordie feel self-doubt, inferiority, and unworthy of Ray’s attention. So, I really didn’t like Jacob and skipped most of his appearances and interactions with the MCs… sorry not sorry!
Another thing that bothers me about the side characters is how we’re introduced to Ray’s cool lesbian aunt, Marie, and teased with plans for a family dinner and a night out at a club, as well as meeting Marie’s wife, Tammy. But all we get are mentions that these things happened OFF-PAGE! We don’t even get to see Jordie meet Ray’s aunts!!!
It feels unfair that the author made me fall in love with the only family member Ray could truly open up to, only to give us little memories and mentions instead of real interactions.
On the other hand, we actually get to meet Jordie’s family (on page), with adorable interactions with Jordie’s siblings and their very cool parents.
And I won’t even touch my opinions about the bird… 😐
All THAT aside, these are minor setbacks, and I could still enjoy the book.
Humor: Medium Focus
Angst: Medium Low Focus
Steam Level: 3/5
Romance: Medium Focus
Cheating?
Cons:The only thing I didn't need was the specifics on the food. My favorite kinds of books are the ones that don't describe the food the characters are eating in every scene, or at least only once or twice. It's not just because I'm vegan—I respect everyone's choices—but I also don't think it's necessary to define a character's lifestyle or personality by their food preferences. That's why I don't read chef or food-related books. That being said, this one is relatively tame, but it does have some mentions that I don't think are necessary character development. And the bird was ridiculous!
The Ending: 3/5
HEA/HFN/Cliffhanger?
Favorite character?
Would I read more of this author? Yes
Would I recommend this series? YES
Will I read this again in the future? Maybe
This is my 1st book by Alex Silver.
Enjoyment: 4/5
🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️ Diner Days Series: 🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
💙1.
Written At Randy's
by Katherine McIntyre - MX trans masc & bigender MCs
- 4,5 stars
💙
💖 2.
Final Boy At Randy's
by Loren Leigh - MM trans guy & cis guy MCs
- 4 stars
💖
🤍 3.Cramming at Randy's - XX genderqueer & demiboy MCs
- 4 stars
🤍
💖 4.
Temptation At Randy's
by Emily Alter - FX trans femme & non-binary MCs
- 4 stars
💖
💙 Expected on 14/11/2024:
5. Hitched At Randy's by A.E. Madsen - MM trans guy & cis guy MCs💙
💖 6.
Gaming At Randy's
by Duckie Mack - MM trans guy & trans guy MCs
- 5 stars
💖
🤍 7.
Striking a Chord At Randy's
by K.C. Carmine - MM cis guy & trans guy MCs
- 4,5 stars
🤍
💖 8.
Composed At Randy's
by Zile Elliven - MM trans guy & cis guy MCs
- 5 stars
💖
💙 Expected on 07/11/2024:
9. Roleplay At Randy's by Rikki Leighton - MM trans guy & cis guy MCs💙
💖 10.
Finding Home At Randy's
by Abrianna Denae - MMX trans guy & trans guy & non-binary MCs
- 4 stars
💖
🤍 Expected on 31/10/2024:
11. Aftercare At Randy's by R.A. Frick - FXM trans femme & non-binary & trans masc MCs🤍
🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈P.S. There even exists a FB Group made by the authors.
Here is the link if you're interested: Diner Days Reader Group.🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
!! I don't equate fiction stories to real life. It's a matter of personal taste and what you are willing or want to tolerate in the books you read. We all have different opinions and preferences when it comes to the kind of books we enjoy, so it's important to respect and remember that it's just a book!!
Hope this review was helpful.
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ARC Read: 01/09/2024
I received this ebook for free and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Alex Silver for this gift. 🥰
What to expect from this book? 🤔
❤️🔥Adult XX Trans Romance 🥵💦
🌈🏳️⚧️👉A Genderqueer & A Demiboy MCs
👌Friends To Lovers
🤯 Self Discovery Journey
📖✍️ Study Buddies (Forced Proximity Vibes)
☀️ Sunshine Simp x 🧁 Possessive Protector
😳 Insta-Crush (So Lots Of Blushing)
👉Coming Out
👉👉 Slow Burn 👈👈
🤏 Just A Bit Of Angst
👉Bisexual Rep
🌍 Very well written… it felt real to me! 😥
😌🙌 ATTENTION: This Book Is The Safest Place For Queer People To Laugh And Enjoy Themselves
Series: Diner Days #3
Cover: 5/5
Ebook: ARC
Story: 4/5
I have to be honest: I had mixed feelings about this book.
Is the book good? Yes.
Is the story enthralling? Yes.
Did Ray keep me captivated? YES
Did the book drag on with unnecessary details about studying and the daily life of college? Unfortunately, yes. 😔
It didn’t help that the book was a Slow Burn.
I KNOW that’s on me, and I KNOW it was the only thing that made sense bc of Ray’s journey of self-discovery and the dysphoria he was going through.
But it doesn’t make me like it more… I strongly dislike Slow Burns, so that’s completely on me.
But why can’t I give it 3 stars? At the start of the book, we see Ray struggling to come out and find his true identity… that struck me deeply.
I couldn’t stop reading… I was completely enthralled!
It’s very difficult to put into words what Ray made feel… compassion, sadness toward the world we live in, authenticity…. I feel companionship and affinity toward Ray.
Everything he experienced regarding identity, the automatic cis-normative expectations that society taught us to want… the haircut, the clothes… it resonated with me.
And instead of make me sad that he was experience all that, it had the exact opposite effect. It felt like a refreshing breath of air, like the first sip you take of your warm beverage, I felt energized… it made me feel unstoppable! To tackle every thing society even thinks throwing my way!
Don’t get me wrong I here talking only about Ray but I love Jordie. Their compassion for others, their struggles with confidence in themselves, and their hesitant trust in others… were inspiring.
So YES, I loved this book.
Did I love the beginning more? Yes, but there’s nothing wrong with that, sometimes that happens even when you don’t want it to.
Thank you for making Ray real. For a 24 yo, non binary, gender fluid person who had to live as AFAB, I endured being seen by society as AFAB…. it made feel whole, so thank you, Alex Silver. Thank you for the ARC and thank you for creating Ray and Jordie!
That’s why I can only, with a clear conscious, rate this 4 stars.
This book has trans/non binary realness, feel-good vibes, loads of queer rep, beautiful friendships, a bit of angst, sweet study dates at the diner *dreamy sigh*, lovable characters, and self-discovery moments..
Genre/Trope: Adult/XX Trans Romance/Forced Proximity/Friends To Lovers College/New Adult/LGTBQIA Plus/Love X-X/New Authors/Slow-Burn/Low Angst/Sweet Tooth/Bisexual Rep/Enby-X Rep/Trans Rep/ARC
Content/Trigger Warnings:
Plot: 3/5
POV: 2
Main Characters:
5/5 – Ray, nickname Sunshine, he, 21yo, demiboy, Canadian, loves poutine
5/5 – Jordie, they, 23yo, genderqueer, American, loves sweets
I really loved their little moments together, sharing sweets and being there for each other! 🥰
Jordie's help and friendship is the most beautiful thing in the universe!
🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️Q🧁u☀️o🧁t☀️e🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️
”Ray: My breath catches at the first glimpse of a boy staring back at me. He looks like a stranger I desperately want to know. And all I can do is stare at the surreal version of myself I’m not sure how to be.
“See? You look fine, Ray. My very own twinky ray of sunshine.” Jordie squeezes my shoulders in a friendly hug.
“Please, I’m not.” I roll my eyes at them, but I secretly love that nickname. I want to be their ray of sunshine for always. But their admiration gives me the courage to face the mirror again.”
🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁
Side Characters: 2/5
As always, the Diner was perfect.
Jordie’s friends were all very cute and friendly……. except Jacob 😑.
I feel very protective of Ray and Jordie, so when Jacob, who was “supposed to be just friendly and goofy”, approached to Ray and started relentlessly flirting with him, it really annoyed me.
He just wouldn’t take the hint that Ray wasn’t enjoying it, and that it WASN’T funny…
Plus, it made Jordie feel self-doubt, inferiority, and unworthy of Ray’s attention. So, I really didn’t like Jacob and skipped most of his appearances and interactions with the MCs… sorry not sorry!
Another thing that bothers me about the side characters is how we’re introduced to Ray’s cool lesbian aunt, Marie, and teased with plans for a family dinner and a night out at a club, as well as meeting Marie’s wife, Tammy. But all we get are mentions that these things happened OFF-PAGE! We don’t even get to see Jordie meet Ray’s aunts!!!
It feels unfair that the author made me fall in love with the only family member Ray could truly open up to, only to give us little memories and mentions instead of real interactions.
On the other hand, we actually get to meet Jordie’s family (on page), with adorable interactions with Jordie’s siblings and their very cool parents.
And I won’t even touch my opinions about the bird… 😐
All THAT aside, these are minor setbacks, and I could still enjoy the book.
Humor: Medium Focus
Angst: Medium Low Focus
Steam Level: 3/5
Romance: Medium Focus
Cheating?
Cons:The only thing I didn't need was the specifics on the food. My favorite kinds of books are the ones that don't describe the food the characters are eating in every scene, or at least only once or twice. It's not just because I'm vegan—I respect everyone's choices—but I also don't think it's necessary to define a character's lifestyle or personality by their food preferences. That's why I don't read chef or food-related books. That being said, this one is relatively tame, but it does have some mentions that I don't think are necessary character development. And the bird was ridiculous!
The Ending: 3/5
HEA/HFN/Cliffhanger?
Favorite character?
Would I read more of this author? Yes
Would I recommend this series? YES
Will I read this again in the future? Maybe
This is my 1st book by Alex Silver.
Enjoyment: 4/5
🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️Q🧁u☀️o🧁t☀️e🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️
”Ray: Eddie meets my gaze in the mirror. “Last chance to back out?”
“Do it.” I say, grasping my courage in both hands as I meet Jordie’s encouraging gaze in the mirror.
The snick of the blades seems loud as he shears off most of my hair in one fell swoop. Eddie coils up the severed braid and stuffs it into a Ziploc bag from his workstation.
I was worried the sight of all that hair would fill me with regret, but when Eddie hands the baggie to Jordie, all I feel is buoyant relief. As if I can shed all the expectations that gorgeous long hair embodies just as easily as a single cut. Each snip of the shears as Eddie tidies the ends of my hair and reverberates through to the core of me. I’m allowed to do this. Allowed to make my own choices, even if they’re wrong, and I change my mind.
Jordie is watching me with concern as my eyes well with happy tears. They squeeze my shoulder through the cape thing Eddie draped over me when he turns to exchange the scissors for his clippers.
“You okay?” Jordie asks.
“Yeah. I can really do this.” The awed realization in those words is embarrassing in its naked longing.
Jordie’s concern melts into another of their encouraging smiles. “You really can.”
“We good to keep going?” Eddie checks in with me as he adjusts the guard on his clippers.
“Yes, please.” I can’t wipe away my smile as Eddie finishes trimming away the ragged ends of what used to be my braid, then carefully buzzes the hair at my nape.”
🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁☀️🧁
🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️ Diner Days Series: 🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
💙1.
💖 2.
🤍 3.
💖 4.
💙 Expected on 14/11/2024:
5. Hitched At Randy's by A.E. Madsen - MM trans guy & cis guy MCs💙
💖 6.
🤍 7.
💖 8.
💙 Expected on 07/11/2024:
9. Roleplay At Randy's by Rikki Leighton - MM trans guy & cis guy MCs💙
💖 10.
🤍 Expected on 31/10/2024:
11. Aftercare At Randy's by R.A. Frick - FXM trans femme & non-binary & trans masc MCs🤍
🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈P.S. There even exists a FB Group made by the authors.
Here is the link if you're interested: Diner Days Reader Group.🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
!! I don't equate fiction stories to real life. It's a matter of personal taste and what you are willing or want to tolerate in the books you read. We all have different opinions and preferences when it comes to the kind of books we enjoy, so it's important to respect and remember that it's just a book!!
Hope this review was helpful.
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October 4, 2024
Welcome back to Randy's, the place for trans discovery and trans joy!
Ray is a trans boy who's moved from Canada to Boston, to get away from their old life where they were only ever seen as the only daughter of the family. That's not who Ray is inside. Ray is just beginning to figure things out and discover what will make him the most happy and comfortable in his own skin. Most of the other characters in the series thus far have themselves pretty well figured out and have their families and friends for support. Ray meets Jordie (a nonbinary trans-femme) in a class they have together and the two of them become tutors and friends before developing that bond into a romantic relationship. But Jordie has been burned by love before, getting left behind when their lovers come into their own trans identities and they don't need Jordie's guidance anymore. Will it be the same with Ray or does Jordie mean more to Ray than a tour guide to becoming yourself?
Loved seeing Ray learn all about who they are in a safe supportive environment and seeing both Jordie and Ray become more their true selves. While there was some mild internal and relationship angst it’s still on the low end compared to many other books out there. It’s refreshing to read so many low-angst stories of trans discovery and trans joy. I just love every single one of these characters and the community they’ve created together. I can’t thank the authors enough for doing this series and I hope there are many more on the way.
Ray is a trans boy who's moved from Canada to Boston, to get away from their old life where they were only ever seen as the only daughter of the family. That's not who Ray is inside. Ray is just beginning to figure things out and discover what will make him the most happy and comfortable in his own skin. Most of the other characters in the series thus far have themselves pretty well figured out and have their families and friends for support. Ray meets Jordie (a nonbinary trans-femme) in a class they have together and the two of them become tutors and friends before developing that bond into a romantic relationship. But Jordie has been burned by love before, getting left behind when their lovers come into their own trans identities and they don't need Jordie's guidance anymore. Will it be the same with Ray or does Jordie mean more to Ray than a tour guide to becoming yourself?
Loved seeing Ray learn all about who they are in a safe supportive environment and seeing both Jordie and Ray become more their true selves. While there was some mild internal and relationship angst it’s still on the low end compared to many other books out there. It’s refreshing to read so many low-angst stories of trans discovery and trans joy. I just love every single one of these characters and the community they’ve created together. I can’t thank the authors enough for doing this series and I hope there are many more on the way.
September 6, 2024
This was a really cute book about self discovery and growing into yourself and becoming comfortable with who you are. I love that this book had us following Ray’s journey to figuring himself out, I feel like most of the trans related books I’ve read, the characters are already years into their transition. This was a refreshing experience for me as I learned more about the trans community and different parts of the gender spectrum. And I loved how supportive the side characters are and there were quite a few moments that had me giggling - like Socks, the demon overlord! And once they eventually got to the sex, that was amazing too!! It was more of a medium-burn love which was great since I was rooting for them since the beginning. Overall, a great read 😊
September 1, 2024
Cramming at Randy's is a book in the multi author series Dinner Days. Each book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the rest of the series. This is the story of Ray a demiboy who moved to Boston to find themselve and Jordie an openly gender queer new friend. I loved these two because they just felt so real. This was a wonderful story of finding your true self. There is an underlying low angst feel that just enhances the book. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
September 8, 2024
Ray is outwardly a girl but feels like a boy. When she goes to college in the US, she decides to present as a boy. He meets Jordie, a trans person who uses they pronouns. Jordie guides him to a new life, acceptance and understanding of himself. It's a book of transition and meeting like friends at Randy's. I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.
June 7, 2024
Rating based on Beta reading.
September 9, 2024
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
There is nothing I love more than a book or series that makes me want to live in that world. The Diner Days series does just that, and I grew up in Boston. The Diner Days series is centered around Randy's Diner (which is really a character all on its own), and Cramming at Randy's splits the settings between the diner and Northeastern University. In their book, Alex Silver introduces us to two trans characters - Ray and Jordie - who are in different places in their transitions but both still seeking acceptance in various forms.
Ray has come to Boston from Quebec, believing that distance from his family will make it easier for him to step out of the role his family has him in to become who he really is - once he figures that out himself. Jordie is further along in her transition, but still struggles with her own identity. Ray first sees Jordie before school starts but they only meet when Ray arrives late to a class and takes the seat next to Jordie. From there, their friendship is inevitable.
Jordie, having been hurt in the past, is happy to be friends with and mentor a "baby queer," but absolutely refuses, 100% will not, not a chance in hell, date one. She's been there, done that, and still bears the emotional scars. Despite that, she is an absolutely joyful character - full of life and sass, and determined to help Ray see that he doesn't need to be anyone else's version of a man - he just needs to be happy with who he is, both inside and out.
So, classmates become study buddies become friends. Jordie is there to support Ray as he takes steps to become who he is, taking him for a haircut to rid him of his long hair, followed by shopping for more comfortable clothing. She's there for his first binder purchase, his first night out with Jordie's friends, his first sex toy party. She watches him come alive and into himself, all while waiting for him to no longer need her. Because that's what has always happened. Meanwhile, Ray is falling for Jordie not only because of how supportive and caring they are, but because Jordie sees him - actually sees him. Without question, without stumbling over pronouns, without forgetting to call him Ray. From their first introduction, Jordie is unfailingly, unflinchingly Team Ray.
The side characters are as important as the two main characters, and it would do this book a disservice if I didn't at least mention them. While they are initially overwhelming to Ray, their presence doesn't detract from the story. If anything, they provide us with glimpses of Jordie and Ray we may not have gotten otherwise. My only complaint is that I wish we'd seen more of Ray's aunts. They are introduced in the beginning of the book because they live in Boston, and they are mentioned a couple of times. But we never do get to see their reaction to Ray's transition into himself. I suspect they would have been supportive but I wish it had been shown.
If you're looking for high-spice and instalust, this isn't it. This is a slow-burn, friends-to-lovers book. Jordie and Ray don't rush into anything, including their friendship, which develops naturally, organically, and comes complete with the awkwardness of getting to know someone new. But, when they do get together? Once they've had the necessary pre-sex talks about testing and STI's? They are fire.
The author has tackled some real-life concerns and challenges with grace and sensitivity. He has perfectly portrayed the fear and anxiety of coming into your true self and telling those you love. And he has captured the insecurities that come with not always being comfortable in your body. True life is messy and complicated, but Alex Silver gives it to us anyway, and in a way that is believable and has you rooting for the best possible outcome.
The entire Diner Days series is shaping up to be a must-read for anyone looking for more inclusive queer rep in literature.
There is nothing I love more than a book or series that makes me want to live in that world. The Diner Days series does just that, and I grew up in Boston. The Diner Days series is centered around Randy's Diner (which is really a character all on its own), and Cramming at Randy's splits the settings between the diner and Northeastern University. In their book, Alex Silver introduces us to two trans characters - Ray and Jordie - who are in different places in their transitions but both still seeking acceptance in various forms.
Ray has come to Boston from Quebec, believing that distance from his family will make it easier for him to step out of the role his family has him in to become who he really is - once he figures that out himself. Jordie is further along in her transition, but still struggles with her own identity. Ray first sees Jordie before school starts but they only meet when Ray arrives late to a class and takes the seat next to Jordie. From there, their friendship is inevitable.
Jordie, having been hurt in the past, is happy to be friends with and mentor a "baby queer," but absolutely refuses, 100% will not, not a chance in hell, date one. She's been there, done that, and still bears the emotional scars. Despite that, she is an absolutely joyful character - full of life and sass, and determined to help Ray see that he doesn't need to be anyone else's version of a man - he just needs to be happy with who he is, both inside and out.
So, classmates become study buddies become friends. Jordie is there to support Ray as he takes steps to become who he is, taking him for a haircut to rid him of his long hair, followed by shopping for more comfortable clothing. She's there for his first binder purchase, his first night out with Jordie's friends, his first sex toy party. She watches him come alive and into himself, all while waiting for him to no longer need her. Because that's what has always happened. Meanwhile, Ray is falling for Jordie not only because of how supportive and caring they are, but because Jordie sees him - actually sees him. Without question, without stumbling over pronouns, without forgetting to call him Ray. From their first introduction, Jordie is unfailingly, unflinchingly Team Ray.
The side characters are as important as the two main characters, and it would do this book a disservice if I didn't at least mention them. While they are initially overwhelming to Ray, their presence doesn't detract from the story. If anything, they provide us with glimpses of Jordie and Ray we may not have gotten otherwise. My only complaint is that I wish we'd seen more of Ray's aunts. They are introduced in the beginning of the book because they live in Boston, and they are mentioned a couple of times. But we never do get to see their reaction to Ray's transition into himself. I suspect they would have been supportive but I wish it had been shown.
If you're looking for high-spice and instalust, this isn't it. This is a slow-burn, friends-to-lovers book. Jordie and Ray don't rush into anything, including their friendship, which develops naturally, organically, and comes complete with the awkwardness of getting to know someone new. But, when they do get together? Once they've had the necessary pre-sex talks about testing and STI's? They are fire.
The author has tackled some real-life concerns and challenges with grace and sensitivity. He has perfectly portrayed the fear and anxiety of coming into your true self and telling those you love. And he has captured the insecurities that come with not always being comfortable in your body. True life is messy and complicated, but Alex Silver gives it to us anyway, and in a way that is believable and has you rooting for the best possible outcome.
The entire Diner Days series is shaping up to be a must-read for anyone looking for more inclusive queer rep in literature.
September 5, 2024
Alex Silver beautifully wrote about two trans characters who are on different journeys together. One who's further along in the transition and acceptance of themselves, and the other who's new to the journey but is craving to be himself.
I loved this story, I genuinely loved everything about it. The background details, the main characters, the side characters, the dialogue, the awkward conversations, the pining that occurs between the MC's, I just loved everything! This story was just created and written so beautifully and was truly outstanding. I'm so happy to see more characters who don't fit the 'mold'.
I adored the message that Jordie tells Ray.. about how Ray doesn't have to conform to other people's version of masculinity, or what a man 'should' look like, or what they 'should' sound like... As long as Ray is happy with how he looks, and he's happy that his outside matches the version of him that's inside, that's all that matters. I just found that message, along with that moment, to be so beautiful because it's true! I wish that more people felt that way, and thought about things from that perspective more often.
Jordie's character was fabulous! They are so bubbly, open, and accepting. Even though they were weary about opening themselves up to another person on their queer journey, they still did what they could to help Ray. To give Ray the support and encouragement he so desperately wanted, and needed. I thought the relationship between Jordie and Ray was written expertly! They took their time to get to know one another, to let those feelings bubble underneath the surface, and that also gave Ray more time to feel more comfortable with himself. I love that their relationship gave off that friends-to-lovers vibe, I loved it!!
The side characters are just as important as the MC's are, they weren't just there to add unneeded dialogue. They provided wonderful dialogue that not only helped gain more insight into the support system Jordie has, but they also helped Ray come out of his shell. They helped him along his self discovery journey too, and made sure he knew they were his friends too, not just Jordie's. They also provided comedic dialogue, in addition to just being great characters!
I loved both Jordie's family, along with Ray's. The love that poured out of each family was so beautiful, and so heartwarming. I'm so glad that both of these characters have such supportive family members by their sides.
All in all, a truly magnificent story with wonderful representation of characters going through different experiences on their journeys to becoming their true selves.
I loved this story, I genuinely loved everything about it. The background details, the main characters, the side characters, the dialogue, the awkward conversations, the pining that occurs between the MC's, I just loved everything! This story was just created and written so beautifully and was truly outstanding. I'm so happy to see more characters who don't fit the 'mold'.
I adored the message that Jordie tells Ray.. about how Ray doesn't have to conform to other people's version of masculinity, or what a man 'should' look like, or what they 'should' sound like... As long as Ray is happy with how he looks, and he's happy that his outside matches the version of him that's inside, that's all that matters. I just found that message, along with that moment, to be so beautiful because it's true! I wish that more people felt that way, and thought about things from that perspective more often.
Jordie's character was fabulous! They are so bubbly, open, and accepting. Even though they were weary about opening themselves up to another person on their queer journey, they still did what they could to help Ray. To give Ray the support and encouragement he so desperately wanted, and needed. I thought the relationship between Jordie and Ray was written expertly! They took their time to get to know one another, to let those feelings bubble underneath the surface, and that also gave Ray more time to feel more comfortable with himself. I love that their relationship gave off that friends-to-lovers vibe, I loved it!!
The side characters are just as important as the MC's are, they weren't just there to add unneeded dialogue. They provided wonderful dialogue that not only helped gain more insight into the support system Jordie has, but they also helped Ray come out of his shell. They helped him along his self discovery journey too, and made sure he knew they were his friends too, not just Jordie's. They also provided comedic dialogue, in addition to just being great characters!
I loved both Jordie's family, along with Ray's. The love that poured out of each family was so beautiful, and so heartwarming. I'm so glad that both of these characters have such supportive family members by their sides.
All in all, a truly magnificent story with wonderful representation of characters going through different experiences on their journeys to becoming their true selves.
December 3, 2024
Diner Days Series: All Trans Romance
Cramming at Randy's by Alex Silver
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
My first book by Alex Silver and I loved it!
⬆️ ARC Read
💙💓🤍💓💙
🏳️⚧️ Trans/Non-Binary Contemporary Romance With A Focus On Gender Reflection.
👉 MC: Jordie (American)👉 Genderqueer (they/them) 23yo, student in their final year of university applying to law school, a good friend (even though his friends were always teasing), and a protégé & a queer mentor for a newly-out baby queers.
👉 MC: Ray (Canadian)👉 Demi-boy (he/him) 21yo, studying to be a play therapist* so he can help kids like him, he’s from Montreal and has the sexiest accent 😏, he is also known as "Sunshine" ☀️ (only by Jordie, who gave him that nickname 😍).
*play therapy is a method of therapy that uses play to uncover and deal with psychological issues. It can be used on its own, particularly with children, or along with other therapies and medications.
🔀 Dual POV
☕️ Coffees x 🧋 Milkshakes & 📚 Studies Dates
😅 Sugary Mess/ 🍩🍰🍩🍰/🧁B-day Cupcake🌻
☺️ Friends to Lovers
👉 Coming Out Story
👉Extrovert x Shy
🥵 Slow-burn🌶🌶🌶🌶
😏 Longing Looks & ☺️ Blushes & 🥵 Experts Slurring in French
🤣 Hilarious moments
💔 Broken Trust (past)
❤️🩹 Love and Hurt (past)
👉 Found Family
🚙 Surprise trip
🤭A Gender Firming Adopted Parrot
⚠️ Body Dysphoria
👉 Angsty
👉 Can be read as a standalone
👏 Solid Character Development
😍 HEA
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
❤️🔥 I felt very emotional about this book and was deeply involved in the MCs struggles and thoughts, the daily struggle to find ourselves, and to be true to ourselves. It’s an engaging, heartfelt story.
An easy read, very well written, with moments of reflection, angst, acceptance, and a sprinkle of humor.
▪︎👉 You fall in love with Jordie right away, watching them struggle not to get emotionally involved with Ray, because Jordie had their trust shattered and was heartbroken by love.
Even though Jordie is afraid of getting hurt again, they don't leave Ray’s side, supporting and helping Ray through one of the most important steps in Ray's life.
▪︎👉Ray decides to move to a new country and university, seeking to finally become the person his always felt he was.
At home, with his family, he was never able to fully express himself, afraid of disappointing them, as his family had always supported him in most things this would be too much.
However, with Jordie's support, his journey becomes much easier, allowing him to embrace his true identity with more confidence and courage.
🌶🌶🌶🌶 The intimate scenes were passionate yet tender, blending intensity with a deep sense of care.
👌Their conversation about sexual preferences and the importance of using protection played a crucial role, given the struggles both main characters faced with their body dysphoria.
This open dialogue not only strengthened their connection but also allowed them to navigate their vulnerabilities with trust and understanding, ensuring they felt safe and respected throughout.
👍 I loved the characters in this book, the supportive family and friends, and the people at the diner. Where they truly found a sense of belonging.
🏳️⚧️☕️🥧🏳️⚧️ Meeting at the diner became a safe space for them to feel included and accepted, something especially meaningful as queer individuals.
It was there that they discovered their found family, a community that embraced them for who they were, offering the love and support they had always longed for.
▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎
😳 & 😅
😉
😅
😍
I'm looking forward to reading the following books on this series and learning more about the trans community.
😉 Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!
Diner Days Series:
1. Written At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
2. Final Boy At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
3. Cramming at Randy's - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
4. Temptation At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
5. Hitched At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars
6. Gaming at Randy's - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
7. Striking A Chord At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
8. Composed At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
9. Roleplay at Randy's - Coming 15/12/2024
10. Finding Home At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
11. Aftercare at Randy's - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
I received this book as a gift from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
BookBub Review
StoryGraph Review
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My Socials
Cramming at Randy's by Alex Silver
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
My first book by Alex Silver and I loved it!
⬆️ ARC Read
💙💓🤍💓💙
🏳️⚧️ Trans/Non-Binary Contemporary Romance With A Focus On Gender Reflection.
👉 MC: Jordie (American)👉 Genderqueer (they/them) 23yo, student in their final year of university applying to law school, a good friend (even though his friends were always teasing), and a protégé & a queer mentor for a newly-out baby queers.
👉 MC: Ray (Canadian)👉 Demi-boy (he/him) 21yo, studying to be a play therapist* so he can help kids like him, he’s from Montreal and has the sexiest accent 😏, he is also known as "Sunshine" ☀️ (only by Jordie, who gave him that nickname 😍).
*play therapy is a method of therapy that uses play to uncover and deal with psychological issues. It can be used on its own, particularly with children, or along with other therapies and medications.
🔀 Dual POV
☕️ Coffees x 🧋 Milkshakes & 📚 Studies Dates
😅 Sugary Mess/ 🍩🍰🍩🍰/🧁B-day Cupcake🌻
☺️ Friends to Lovers
👉 Coming Out Story
👉Extrovert x Shy
🥵 Slow-burn🌶🌶🌶🌶
😏 Longing Looks & ☺️ Blushes & 🥵 Experts Slurring in French
🤣 Hilarious moments
💔 Broken Trust (past)
❤️🩹 Love and Hurt (past)
👉 Found Family
🚙 Surprise trip
🤭A Gender Firming Adopted Parrot
⚠️ Body Dysphoria
👉 Angsty
👉 Can be read as a standalone
👏 Solid Character Development
😍 HEA
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
❤️🔥 I felt very emotional about this book and was deeply involved in the MCs struggles and thoughts, the daily struggle to find ourselves, and to be true to ourselves. It’s an engaging, heartfelt story.
An easy read, very well written, with moments of reflection, angst, acceptance, and a sprinkle of humor.
▪︎👉 You fall in love with Jordie right away, watching them struggle not to get emotionally involved with Ray, because Jordie had their trust shattered and was heartbroken by love.
Even though Jordie is afraid of getting hurt again, they don't leave Ray’s side, supporting and helping Ray through one of the most important steps in Ray's life.
▪︎👉Ray decides to move to a new country and university, seeking to finally become the person his always felt he was.
At home, with his family, he was never able to fully express himself, afraid of disappointing them, as his family had always supported him in most things this would be too much.
However, with Jordie's support, his journey becomes much easier, allowing him to embrace his true identity with more confidence and courage.
🌶🌶🌶🌶 The intimate scenes were passionate yet tender, blending intensity with a deep sense of care.
👌Their conversation about sexual preferences and the importance of using protection played a crucial role, given the struggles both main characters faced with their body dysphoria.
This open dialogue not only strengthened their connection but also allowed them to navigate their vulnerabilities with trust and understanding, ensuring they felt safe and respected throughout.
👍 I loved the characters in this book, the supportive family and friends, and the people at the diner. Where they truly found a sense of belonging.
🏳️⚧️☕️🥧🏳️⚧️ Meeting at the diner became a safe space for them to feel included and accepted, something especially meaningful as queer individuals.
It was there that they discovered their found family, a community that embraced them for who they were, offering the love and support they had always longed for.
▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎
😳 & 😅
■Jordie: "...and place their books next to mine all while simultaneously attempting to sit. I reach to steady their shoulder as they stagger.
Their stack of books topples to one side, and they stumble right into my lap. Their books clatter to the floor at our feet as I wrap my arms around them so we don’t both go down with the books. It’s reflexive and I can’t help the zing of warmth I feel when they realize I won’t let them fall and they relax into my hold.
Jacob is going to laugh himself silly if I tell him my new baby queer tripped and literally fell onto my dick. I mean. Not exactly, but I can feel myself reacting to having them squirming in my lap as they gather their things."
😉
■Jordie: "No pressure, babe, I can just call you Frenchie until you pick something you prefer. They stifle a laugh and dart those gorgeous blue mirth-filled eyes to my face. I wink at them."
😅
■Ray: "...I’m only puzzled for a second before they spin to show off their efforts. “Que penses-tu?”
“Je pense que tu es une petite canaille.” I shake my head at their ridiculous antics, trying to stifle my laughter when I read the slogan on their chest. With the C and half of the D strategically covered up, they have I <3 ANAL proudly blazoned across their body.
I resist the urge to cover it up as I feel myself flushing. A family with two young kids enters the aisle with us. I step into Jordie’s personal space and tug them into a sweet kiss..."
😍
■Ray: '“Tu est parfaite.” I lock eyes with them, wishing I could beam into their mind just how much I’m into every single part of them."
I'm looking forward to reading the following books on this series and learning more about the trans community.
😉 Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!
Diner Days Series:
1. Written At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
2. Final Boy At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
3. Cramming at Randy's - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
4. Temptation At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
5. Hitched At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars
6. Gaming at Randy's - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
7. Striking A Chord At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
8. Composed At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
9. Roleplay at Randy's - Coming 15/12/2024
10. Finding Home At Randy’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
11. Aftercare at Randy's - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
I received this book as a gift from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
BookBub Review
StoryGraph Review
Reviews On Goodreads
My Socials
September 7, 2024
3.75/5 I’m delighted that this series exists, and I learned more and gender and gender expression and its complexities in this book. I don’t read a lot of college-aged books these days, and I think the ages hampered my enjoyment a bit here. (It’s entirely logical that these early twenties new adults don’t know themselves that well yet/aren’t totally settled in the world, but it’s often not my favourite thing to read.)
I really enjoyed Ray’s joy as he got to be himself for the first time in Boston. (The haircut scene was awesome!) I loved how supportive Jordie was. I enjoyed the French Canadian connection. I found myself probably unfairly impatient with Ray for being so hurt by his family misgendering him because he hadn’t told them who he was. (I’m sure I’m coming at that from a privileged cis position. I just couldn’t prevent myself from feeling a bit frustrated even as I sympathised.) I really enjoyed how well the conversation actually went (it just took a really long time to get there); seeing so many supportive family members and friends was awesome. (The bird was hilarious, lol.)
I would have enjoyed fewer spicy moments and a few more dates and other intimate moments that weren’t just in bed (but that’s a personal preference for spice level, no objection to the writing of the scenes or anything). A lot of the non-intimate moments ended up being about Ray’s transition, so I would have liked a bit more of them as a couple.
Having all Jordie’s insecurities linger to basically the second-last page was not quite what I was hoping for. (I do understand the insecurities on the one hand, and I appreciated from a logic standpoint that Jordie had multiple experiences of it and wasn’t using one person as a map for all others.) I’m glad they finally talked it out, but I would have liked an epilogue to show them settled in the future. I did like the way Ray reacted to the revelation, his chance to be just as supportive of Jordie as Jordie had been of him.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
I really enjoyed Ray’s joy as he got to be himself for the first time in Boston. (The haircut scene was awesome!) I loved how supportive Jordie was. I enjoyed the French Canadian connection. I found myself probably unfairly impatient with Ray for being so hurt by his family misgendering him because he hadn’t told them who he was. (I’m sure I’m coming at that from a privileged cis position. I just couldn’t prevent myself from feeling a bit frustrated even as I sympathised.) I really enjoyed how well the conversation actually went (it just took a really long time to get there); seeing so many supportive family members and friends was awesome. (The bird was hilarious, lol.)
I would have enjoyed fewer spicy moments and a few more dates and other intimate moments that weren’t just in bed (but that’s a personal preference for spice level, no objection to the writing of the scenes or anything). A lot of the non-intimate moments ended up being about Ray’s transition, so I would have liked a bit more of them as a couple.
Having all Jordie’s insecurities linger to basically the second-last page was not quite what I was hoping for. (I do understand the insecurities on the one hand, and I appreciated from a logic standpoint that Jordie had multiple experiences of it and wasn’t using one person as a map for all others.) I’m glad they finally talked it out, but I would have liked an epilogue to show them settled in the future. I did like the way Ray reacted to the revelation, his chance to be just as supportive of Jordie as Jordie had been of him.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
March 5, 2025
This is a series not to be missed and this is a must read among them!
Rating: 4.5🌈
I forget how much I love this series until I read another book about that fabulous all inclusive diner in Boston and the people who live near it and have found their authentic selves and love there.
Cramming at Randy’s is one of my favorites. Alex Silver’s characters and their stories are so beautifully written and believable, funny, raw, young and compelling.
Ray, coming from the large loving Quebec home, to go to college in Boston, is everything. He’s a fully fleshed out person, multilingual, fearfully setting out to find his true identity and the ability to live as he knows he is, a man, not the girl his family thinks of him as.
He encounters Jordan, a student, who’s secure in their own right, but has struggled with their past romantic relationship. Together, they find themselves first friends helping each other out in classes and with Ray’s new transition.
Then it turns into romance.
Everything about them and their storyline is beautifully written. It sensitive and funny, moments where they become awkwardly young adults yet it’s sexy and loving. And it has one of the funniest scenes of coming out to a family I can remember.
And these families? Totally supportive and just as respectful and wonderful as the main characters.
Honestly, I could have done with a longer version because I enjoyed it so much.
This is a series not to be missed and this is a must read among them!
Highly recommended!
Great cover!
Cover design by Cormar Covers
Diner Days series -11 books:
🔷Written at Randy's by Katherine McIntyre
🔷Final Boy at Randy's by Loren Leigh
🔷Cramming at Randy's by Alex Silver 🩷💚🌈
🔷Temptation at Randy's by Emily Alter
🔷Hitched at Randy's by A. E. Madsen
🔷Gaming at Randy's by Duckie Mack
🔷Striking a Chord at Randy's by K. C. Carmine
🔷Composed at Randy’s by Zile Elliven❤️
🔷Roleplay at Randy's by Rikki Leighton
🔷Finding Home at Randy's by Abrianna Denae
🔷Aftercare at Randy's by R.A. Frick
Rating: 4.5🌈
I forget how much I love this series until I read another book about that fabulous all inclusive diner in Boston and the people who live near it and have found their authentic selves and love there.
Cramming at Randy’s is one of my favorites. Alex Silver’s characters and their stories are so beautifully written and believable, funny, raw, young and compelling.
Ray, coming from the large loving Quebec home, to go to college in Boston, is everything. He’s a fully fleshed out person, multilingual, fearfully setting out to find his true identity and the ability to live as he knows he is, a man, not the girl his family thinks of him as.
He encounters Jordan, a student, who’s secure in their own right, but has struggled with their past romantic relationship. Together, they find themselves first friends helping each other out in classes and with Ray’s new transition.
Then it turns into romance.
Everything about them and their storyline is beautifully written. It sensitive and funny, moments where they become awkwardly young adults yet it’s sexy and loving. And it has one of the funniest scenes of coming out to a family I can remember.
And these families? Totally supportive and just as respectful and wonderful as the main characters.
Honestly, I could have done with a longer version because I enjoyed it so much.
This is a series not to be missed and this is a must read among them!
Highly recommended!
Great cover!
Cover design by Cormar Covers
Diner Days series -11 books:
🔷Written at Randy's by Katherine McIntyre
🔷Final Boy at Randy's by Loren Leigh
🔷Cramming at Randy's by Alex Silver 🩷💚🌈
🔷Temptation at Randy's by Emily Alter
🔷Hitched at Randy's by A. E. Madsen
🔷Gaming at Randy's by Duckie Mack
🔷Striking a Chord at Randy's by K. C. Carmine
🔷Composed at Randy’s by Zile Elliven❤️
🔷Roleplay at Randy's by Rikki Leighton
🔷Finding Home at Randy's by Abrianna Denae
🔷Aftercare at Randy's by R.A. Frick
September 8, 2024
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
Alex Silver’s book is part of the multi-author Diner Days series about low angst trans romances. In this story, Ray moves from Canada to Boston to find their true self and a place to belong. Ray is out as bisexual, but not as a demiboy. Jordie is an older genderqueer university student who helps Ray along his journey. After a past hurt with an ex, Jordie does not date newly out persons. Ray immediately crushes on Jordie when he first see them. Jordie offers Ray kindness right away, so naturally Ray and Jordie become friends. Jordie calls Ray sunshine, which is a really sweet nickname.
This book is a bit of a slow burn. The MCs remain friends and study buddies for half the book. Their first kiss happens at the 54% mark. It’s sweet and spicy and marks the beginnings of a new relationship between Jordie and Ray. Once things get physical, the emotional connection the couple shared grows even stronger. Jordie supports Ray wholeheartedly and Ray loves how comfortable Jordie is in their own skin. Ray and Jordie grow closer as the study sessions ramp up. Their friendship and relationship helps both MCs take their sense of self journeys one step further when they both start HRT.
I love the supporting cast of friends and family in this book. Ray and Jordie are both dealing with respective insecurities. Jordie has baggage from a previous relationship and Ray is worried about his family’s reaction to his coming out as a demiboy. Acceptance and love is abundant in this book, however, so both MCs are able to come to terms with their worries. Ray reassures Jordie at the end of the book and the pair are able to look forward to their happy future together as a result.
This book is a great read with excellent gender diversity and trans representation. It’s sweet, emotional, and warms the heart. You should definitely check it out.
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
Alex Silver’s book is part of the multi-author Diner Days series about low angst trans romances. In this story, Ray moves from Canada to Boston to find their true self and a place to belong. Ray is out as bisexual, but not as a demiboy. Jordie is an older genderqueer university student who helps Ray along his journey. After a past hurt with an ex, Jordie does not date newly out persons. Ray immediately crushes on Jordie when he first see them. Jordie offers Ray kindness right away, so naturally Ray and Jordie become friends. Jordie calls Ray sunshine, which is a really sweet nickname.
This book is a bit of a slow burn. The MCs remain friends and study buddies for half the book. Their first kiss happens at the 54% mark. It’s sweet and spicy and marks the beginnings of a new relationship between Jordie and Ray. Once things get physical, the emotional connection the couple shared grows even stronger. Jordie supports Ray wholeheartedly and Ray loves how comfortable Jordie is in their own skin. Ray and Jordie grow closer as the study sessions ramp up. Their friendship and relationship helps both MCs take their sense of self journeys one step further when they both start HRT.
I love the supporting cast of friends and family in this book. Ray and Jordie are both dealing with respective insecurities. Jordie has baggage from a previous relationship and Ray is worried about his family’s reaction to his coming out as a demiboy. Acceptance and love is abundant in this book, however, so both MCs are able to come to terms with their worries. Ray reassures Jordie at the end of the book and the pair are able to look forward to their happy future together as a result.
This book is a great read with excellent gender diversity and trans representation. It’s sweet, emotional, and warms the heart. You should definitely check it out.
September 10, 2024
I was gifted my copy of this book.
Ray is in Boston to find himself. He needs the space from his Canadian family to fully embrace his true self. He manages to *literally* fall into Jordie's lap on their first meeting! There follows a wonderful tale of one man fully coming out, and Jordie letting go of their hang up to finally have the love they deserve.
I read a lot, and if you follow my reviews, you'll know that I am not one for sitting on one shelf. I read MM, FF MF and any combo of those you can possibly imagine. I also read trans books and non binary books and all of those too. But THIS book?? Very different to anything I've read before. Let me tell you why.
Ray is at the very begining of his walk on this path. He leaves home to take the very first steps to becoming the man he knows he is. He is the first character I've read at such a spot on that path. His story is very detailed, and goes far deeper into the process than I've read before. I found it quite hard reading in places. Not bad, at all, just way beyond my knowledge and experiences.
Jordie is a character too, and I loved them. I liked that their pronouns stay the same throughout. Even if they are in femme mode, they don't use she. I liked that I was able to keep up with that. I did wanna slap them a time or tow, for not talking to Ray about their feelings and how they felt after Ray fully comes out, but they do get there, I just wanted it quicker!
I liked this book, it made for a very different read and I really learned something about the transitioning path. It's also the first books of Silver I have read. I'd like to read more!
4 very good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Ray is in Boston to find himself. He needs the space from his Canadian family to fully embrace his true self. He manages to *literally* fall into Jordie's lap on their first meeting! There follows a wonderful tale of one man fully coming out, and Jordie letting go of their hang up to finally have the love they deserve.
I read a lot, and if you follow my reviews, you'll know that I am not one for sitting on one shelf. I read MM, FF MF and any combo of those you can possibly imagine. I also read trans books and non binary books and all of those too. But THIS book?? Very different to anything I've read before. Let me tell you why.
Ray is at the very begining of his walk on this path. He leaves home to take the very first steps to becoming the man he knows he is. He is the first character I've read at such a spot on that path. His story is very detailed, and goes far deeper into the process than I've read before. I found it quite hard reading in places. Not bad, at all, just way beyond my knowledge and experiences.
Jordie is a character too, and I loved them. I liked that their pronouns stay the same throughout. Even if they are in femme mode, they don't use she. I liked that I was able to keep up with that. I did wanna slap them a time or tow, for not talking to Ray about their feelings and how they felt after Ray fully comes out, but they do get there, I just wanted it quicker!
I liked this book, it made for a very different read and I really learned something about the transitioning path. It's also the first books of Silver I have read. I'd like to read more!
4 very good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
September 8, 2024
What does the parrot think?
Heartbreaking to listen to the constant dysphoria and self-doubt that our MC has in the beginning. Each of these Diner Days stories really bring to light the different kinds of lives and lifestyles among the LGBTQ+ community. This particular story really identified with Ray as a newly-identified trans man, although he prefers the term "boy" instead of man, since he feels it's not yet applicable to him. Watching him struggle with his identity, and having to constantly subject himself to his family who do not know his current life and still identify Ray as a daughter/sister and use her uncomfortable deadname. His relationship with our other MC, Jordie, was really sweet to follow. Although Jordie was initially uncomfortable having to "mentor another baby queer," they connected so easily with Ray and took immediate acceptance to Ray's new life, and that solidified their relationship. Once they acknowledged the physical feelings between them, their story gets quite steamy.
When Ray is finally choosing to "come out" to his family, it's a difficult but rewarding scene to follow, especially with Jordie at his side. The MC's support of one another is beautiful, and I hope there's a lot more fun and happiness in their future, especially as they finish up college and move into the career world.
I really enjoyed Cramming at Randy's. It was a new perspective for me to read, and I love learning more about the LGBTQ+ community. There's always more to absorb! I never know how to truly express my appreciation for this community and its complexities. And the way each of these authors create stories around this community is inspiring.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
Heartbreaking to listen to the constant dysphoria and self-doubt that our MC has in the beginning. Each of these Diner Days stories really bring to light the different kinds of lives and lifestyles among the LGBTQ+ community. This particular story really identified with Ray as a newly-identified trans man, although he prefers the term "boy" instead of man, since he feels it's not yet applicable to him. Watching him struggle with his identity, and having to constantly subject himself to his family who do not know his current life and still identify Ray as a daughter/sister and use her uncomfortable deadname. His relationship with our other MC, Jordie, was really sweet to follow. Although Jordie was initially uncomfortable having to "mentor another baby queer," they connected so easily with Ray and took immediate acceptance to Ray's new life, and that solidified their relationship. Once they acknowledged the physical feelings between them, their story gets quite steamy.
When Ray is finally choosing to "come out" to his family, it's a difficult but rewarding scene to follow, especially with Jordie at his side. The MC's support of one another is beautiful, and I hope there's a lot more fun and happiness in their future, especially as they finish up college and move into the career world.
I really enjoyed Cramming at Randy's. It was a new perspective for me to read, and I love learning more about the LGBTQ+ community. There's always more to absorb! I never know how to truly express my appreciation for this community and its complexities. And the way each of these authors create stories around this community is inspiring.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
September 23, 2024
Cramming at Randy's is another delightful installment of the Diner Days series that features low angst trans romances set in Boston, MA.
Ray, a demi-boy transfer student from Canada, comes to Boston in order to have the freedom to come out as his authentic self, away from the expectations and limitations placed upon him by his natal family. He finds a guide to queer community as well as a mentor in Boston when falls into the lap of Jordie, a genderqueer student who is in one of Ray's classes. Not only does Jordie introduce Ray to new friends and to Randy's Diner, among other welcoming Boston locations, Jordie helps Ray to articulate how he sees himself and find the resources to live as his most authentic self. Over the course of doing so, they develop a deep friendship that in turns develops into love.
This is a sweet, low-angst story about living as one's true self, about friendship, and about finding that HEA in an unexpected place. A lot of this book is about Ray becoming his true self, which is wonderful to read about. I love the inclusion of French - including Jordie's bad French, lol - and the humor that results from this. Jordie and Ray are super cute together and once their romantic feelings emerge, they're also pretty hot!
I enjoyed meeting more of the Randy's Diner crew and can't wait for other books in this series.
I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Ray, a demi-boy transfer student from Canada, comes to Boston in order to have the freedom to come out as his authentic self, away from the expectations and limitations placed upon him by his natal family. He finds a guide to queer community as well as a mentor in Boston when falls into the lap of Jordie, a genderqueer student who is in one of Ray's classes. Not only does Jordie introduce Ray to new friends and to Randy's Diner, among other welcoming Boston locations, Jordie helps Ray to articulate how he sees himself and find the resources to live as his most authentic self. Over the course of doing so, they develop a deep friendship that in turns develops into love.
This is a sweet, low-angst story about living as one's true self, about friendship, and about finding that HEA in an unexpected place. A lot of this book is about Ray becoming his true self, which is wonderful to read about. I love the inclusion of French - including Jordie's bad French, lol - and the humor that results from this. Jordie and Ray are super cute together and once their romantic feelings emerge, they're also pretty hot!
I enjoyed meeting more of the Randy's Diner crew and can't wait for other books in this series.
I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
March 31, 2025
Sweet Romance
Jordie and Ray are a sweet couple. Ray is trans, but hasn’t come out yet when he starts university in Boston and meets Jordie. Jordie is trans too, and they have a penchant for guiding newly out people on their journeys. Unfortunately this has often come at the price of getting their heartbroken when the other person realizes they don’t need them anymore. So when Jordie and Ray meet and it becomes clear that Ray needs help becoming his true self, Jordie doesn’t hesitate to help. But they do hesitate to act on the attraction they feel for Ray.
Ray has been out as bi for a long time and had both a boyfriend and a girlfriend, so while he is new to being out as trans, he’s not a baby bi. This makes him an interesting mix of insecure and anxious about his gender expression and confident in his sexuality. So while he appreciates the support Jordie gives him to finally live as his true self, he is in no way experimenting with Jordie when they finally get together. This is something Jordie has a hard time feeling confident about because of their past.
I liked the growth of their relationship and how supportive they are of each other. Their friend group was great, too. Having read another book in this series, I appreciated the little easter eggs from other books.
I do think this book could have been a little better edited. Sometimes things were repeated when they didn’t need to be. Still, overall, it was a very enjoyable read.
Jordie and Ray are a sweet couple. Ray is trans, but hasn’t come out yet when he starts university in Boston and meets Jordie. Jordie is trans too, and they have a penchant for guiding newly out people on their journeys. Unfortunately this has often come at the price of getting their heartbroken when the other person realizes they don’t need them anymore. So when Jordie and Ray meet and it becomes clear that Ray needs help becoming his true self, Jordie doesn’t hesitate to help. But they do hesitate to act on the attraction they feel for Ray.
Ray has been out as bi for a long time and had both a boyfriend and a girlfriend, so while he is new to being out as trans, he’s not a baby bi. This makes him an interesting mix of insecure and anxious about his gender expression and confident in his sexuality. So while he appreciates the support Jordie gives him to finally live as his true self, he is in no way experimenting with Jordie when they finally get together. This is something Jordie has a hard time feeling confident about because of their past.
I liked the growth of their relationship and how supportive they are of each other. Their friend group was great, too. Having read another book in this series, I appreciated the little easter eggs from other books.
I do think this book could have been a little better edited. Sometimes things were repeated when they didn’t need to be. Still, overall, it was a very enjoyable read.
September 7, 2024
What a wonderfully emotive trans romance and fantastic addition to this series!
I love how open and honest this story is for both Ray and Jordie. It has quite a few moments, especially for Ray who is new on their out trans journey. He can't quite face telling his family quite yet, unsure of their response but in a new town for college, and Jordie being the first person he literally falls into, he feels the sense of security, camaraderie and comfort in being with his community of people. Jordie is in self preservation mode, having been burned by helping those newly out before but there is something about Ray, their joy in experiencing things for the first time, and a connection that they haven't felt in a long time that has them unable to stay away.
It's a sweet friends to lovers romance and the reader gets to be a part of Ray's first steps out to the world as a trans male. I loved how their emotions and reactions to things are written, a lot of things that I wouldn't even notice and so makes for an interesting read as well as an enjoyable one. Alex is a favourite author of mine when it comes to reading these stories and I cannot recommend them enough.
I am so happy to have gotten to know more people that visit Randy's diner and can't wait for the next installment.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
I love how open and honest this story is for both Ray and Jordie. It has quite a few moments, especially for Ray who is new on their out trans journey. He can't quite face telling his family quite yet, unsure of their response but in a new town for college, and Jordie being the first person he literally falls into, he feels the sense of security, camaraderie and comfort in being with his community of people. Jordie is in self preservation mode, having been burned by helping those newly out before but there is something about Ray, their joy in experiencing things for the first time, and a connection that they haven't felt in a long time that has them unable to stay away.
It's a sweet friends to lovers romance and the reader gets to be a part of Ray's first steps out to the world as a trans male. I loved how their emotions and reactions to things are written, a lot of things that I wouldn't even notice and so makes for an interesting read as well as an enjoyable one. Alex is a favourite author of mine when it comes to reading these stories and I cannot recommend them enough.
I am so happy to have gotten to know more people that visit Randy's diner and can't wait for the next installment.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
September 16, 2024
I received and ARC of this (but due to late sending, the email going to spam and my bad health I took way too long to get around to writing this, so sorry!)
Anywho, onto the story. Ray and Jordie had me in a headlock right from the start. I adored them and this book was so filled with becoming your self, comfortable with yourself and falling in love and it was lovely!
Seeing Ray become himself and work towards acceptance was really great, and then seeing Jordie doing the same with the help and acceptance of Ray was just fantastic. The way both of them expressed themselves and their genders or lack thereof just gave me such a boost of serotonin. It was really beautiful and nicely written. The journey Ray went on with Jordie by his side, someone who had to learn new things themself and start to trust was just really lovely.
I couldn't get enough of this book and the characters and would gladly re-read any day.
If you are looking for a book about a bisexual who's newly discovering their demiboy self and his beautiful confident but guarded gender queer partner this is a great book for that! Sweet, beautiful and a little sad at points but ultimately just a happy story, couldn't have asked for more.
Anywho, onto the story. Ray and Jordie had me in a headlock right from the start. I adored them and this book was so filled with becoming your self, comfortable with yourself and falling in love and it was lovely!
Seeing Ray become himself and work towards acceptance was really great, and then seeing Jordie doing the same with the help and acceptance of Ray was just fantastic. The way both of them expressed themselves and their genders or lack thereof just gave me such a boost of serotonin. It was really beautiful and nicely written. The journey Ray went on with Jordie by his side, someone who had to learn new things themself and start to trust was just really lovely.
I couldn't get enough of this book and the characters and would gladly re-read any day.
If you are looking for a book about a bisexual who's newly discovering their demiboy self and his beautiful confident but guarded gender queer partner this is a great book for that! Sweet, beautiful and a little sad at points but ultimately just a happy story, couldn't have asked for more.
March 25, 2025
This was a delightful read. I loved Ray. It was really nice to see him come full circle from realizing he isn't a girl to trying out his new name and pronouns to landing on the label demiboy. It was just really nice to be in his head during the entire process, even if I wish it'd been easier for him. And his family is amazing and the homesickness felt so real. I love Jordie too. They are so fun, intelligent, and caring. I love how they took Ray under their wing, even thought it felt different from the start. I love that to Ray, Jordie is so confident in who they are and so accepting of themselves (which they are), but when we get Jordie's POV we see they have insecurities, too, just like everyone. I loved seeing these two go from friends to lovers, despite Jordie's concerns about being left behind. They both care about each other so much and you can tell in the little things they do for each other. Overall, it was a really sweet read and felt like a nice portrayal of Ray's journey discovering and owning his identity. Oh and the side characters were all wonderful.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, trans rep, supportive families, close knit family, friends to lovers, bilingual mc, college, friendship, genderqueer rep, demiboy rep, study buddies
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, trans rep, supportive families, close knit family, friends to lovers, bilingual mc, college, friendship, genderqueer rep, demiboy rep, study buddies
September 11, 2024
Another great read from the series!
Having read the first book in the series and loved it, I couldn’t wait for the next ones and have not been disappointed. This is very different to the previous one but I still loved reading it and spent most of the time wanting to hug and reassure the MCs. I am a lover of romance between any persons or genre and loved the book.
The book is low angst but the characters are quite anxious, hence me wanting to hug and reassure them. I do not identify in the same way as either of them and cannot truly understand how they must feel, but I felt the author did a good job of trying to explain a small amount of what they were going through. It did seem quite long winded at times and may have benefitted from being shorter, but I think that is part of how the MCs must feel and it as such it matched their story.
Overall a lovely book and romance. I would recommend, not just for the romance but a chance to get a small glimpse of how it must feel being transgender as it is not something I have personally been through.
I received an arc of this book in return for my honest view.
Having read the first book in the series and loved it, I couldn’t wait for the next ones and have not been disappointed. This is very different to the previous one but I still loved reading it and spent most of the time wanting to hug and reassure the MCs. I am a lover of romance between any persons or genre and loved the book.
The book is low angst but the characters are quite anxious, hence me wanting to hug and reassure them. I do not identify in the same way as either of them and cannot truly understand how they must feel, but I felt the author did a good job of trying to explain a small amount of what they were going through. It did seem quite long winded at times and may have benefitted from being shorter, but I think that is part of how the MCs must feel and it as such it matched their story.
Overall a lovely book and romance. I would recommend, not just for the romance but a chance to get a small glimpse of how it must feel being transgender as it is not something I have personally been through.
I received an arc of this book in return for my honest view.
September 13, 2024
Leaving Canada to attend college in Boston, Ray is living away from family for the first time. It’s equally parts scary and exciting, as Ray is also hoping to use the space and new found freedom to try and figure out their gender identity. This is a new author to me and I really enjoyed their addition to the Diner Days series. Ray takes such a wonderful journey and with some help from Jordie and slowly begins his transformation. It’s pretty lovely and hopeful which I loved, that has been a real highlight throughout this special series. If I’m picky, it did feel a little slow moving and a touch too long but the characters are so lovable and dimensional- it’s a minor thing really. One of my favorite things was the strong families, the found family vibes are excellent and both Jordie and Ray have lovely and supportive families. I also loved seeing Ray grow more and more comfortable and confident in himself- which was beautifully written by the author. Great couple!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
September 15, 2024
Cramming at Randy's is a poignant story that looks into the complexities of being a transgender student while navigating the complexities of young love. The story follows Ray and Jordie. Jordie is gender queer, Ray, trans. Ray especially struggles with both his identity, and the challenge he faces in a world that can sometimes be unaccepting. He has moved away from home in an attempt to explore his true self. Alex Silver does a good job of capturing the experiences of transgender youth, both from the fear and anxiety of coming out to the joy and relief of finding acceptance. Through the exploration of their identity, Ray falls in love with Jordie, and we get a lovely portrayal of young love. The relationship between the two is tender, caring, and sweet, but due to the nature of the story, it is very much slow burn. Jordie helps Rae so much, giving him the courage to become himself. The ending is both satisfying and hopeful, and a reminder of the importance of love, acceptance, and self-discovery.
September 8, 2024
Cramming at Randy’s - Ray of Sunshine
‘Jordie isn’t a freak; they’re beautiful and vibrant and everything I wish I had the courage to be. Bold and brash without being in your face about it. They take up space without apologizing for it. I wish I could be like that.’
Ray has traveled to Boston from Canada for college, but more importantly to learn to be his authentic self. It is terrifying, so in a very fortunate stumble, he lands on Jordie’s lap in their psych class. From that point, Jordie becomes a mentor and friend. As often happens when two hearts start beating the same, these two start leaning into their friendship/romance, but each still has to conquer their gender euphoria internal demons, while growing their love.
Alex Silver has added a remarkably romantic and deeply emotional story to the Diner Days series with Cramming at Randy’s. Representing the trans community in a beautifully human and informative story of life and love.
‘Jordie isn’t a freak; they’re beautiful and vibrant and everything I wish I had the courage to be. Bold and brash without being in your face about it. They take up space without apologizing for it. I wish I could be like that.’
Ray has traveled to Boston from Canada for college, but more importantly to learn to be his authentic self. It is terrifying, so in a very fortunate stumble, he lands on Jordie’s lap in their psych class. From that point, Jordie becomes a mentor and friend. As often happens when two hearts start beating the same, these two start leaning into their friendship/romance, but each still has to conquer their gender euphoria internal demons, while growing their love.
Alex Silver has added a remarkably romantic and deeply emotional story to the Diner Days series with Cramming at Randy’s. Representing the trans community in a beautifully human and informative story of life and love.
September 15, 2024
Jordi’s Ray of Sunshine
4.5⭐️ Wonderful to be back at Randy’s and the amazing queer Boston community.
I found this story had a bit more angst along with the all welcoming warmth and support of the Diner Days books so far.
Ray moves from his country to be able to figure out who he is away from his family. He meets Jordi who is the first person he is actually most himself with by using his chosen name and pronoun in his greeting. Jordi has a soft spot for baby queers and some yucky baggage to not get their heart involved. They connect from that first meeting. The side characters are fun and inclusive. It’s great seeing past (and future) characters about. This community is a dream.
Spoiler:
The parents and families in these first couple of books are simply amazing in how they react to one’s coming out. I mean truly they react as one should, which is why it’s so amazing to be able to read about. Just flawless.
4.5⭐️ Wonderful to be back at Randy’s and the amazing queer Boston community.
I found this story had a bit more angst along with the all welcoming warmth and support of the Diner Days books so far.
Ray moves from his country to be able to figure out who he is away from his family. He meets Jordi who is the first person he is actually most himself with by using his chosen name and pronoun in his greeting. Jordi has a soft spot for baby queers and some yucky baggage to not get their heart involved. They connect from that first meeting. The side characters are fun and inclusive. It’s great seeing past (and future) characters about. This community is a dream.
Spoiler:
The parents and families in these first couple of books are simply amazing in how they react to one’s coming out. I mean truly they react as one should, which is why it’s so amazing to be able to read about. Just flawless.
September 5, 2024
Talk about an absolute meet cute story!!!
Jordie has sworn off relationships with baby queers until Ray, the cutest, clumsy, trans boy falls right into his lap on the first day of class! They have an instant connection and Jordie helps Ray be more confident to become the boy he was always meant to be throughout the whole book! Watching them build an incredible friend/found family group is so amazing! Also the relationship they both have with their parents and siblings is so amazing, it was so refreshing reading about a family supporting their children healed some of my heart!
The way Alex writes really makes you feel so deeply for the things Ray is feeling and makes his fears feel so real to the reader. I feel so heartbroken that so many people out their go through this stuff. This series is so important for the world to see and feel and learn!
Jordie has sworn off relationships with baby queers until Ray, the cutest, clumsy, trans boy falls right into his lap on the first day of class! They have an instant connection and Jordie helps Ray be more confident to become the boy he was always meant to be throughout the whole book! Watching them build an incredible friend/found family group is so amazing! Also the relationship they both have with their parents and siblings is so amazing, it was so refreshing reading about a family supporting their children healed some of my heart!
The way Alex writes really makes you feel so deeply for the things Ray is feeling and makes his fears feel so real to the reader. I feel so heartbroken that so many people out their go through this stuff. This series is so important for the world to see and feel and learn!
Read
September 6, 2024A beautiful friendship becomes a beautiful relationship as two queer college students find friendship and acceptance with each other and explore their connection.
I love watching Ray emerge from his cocoon and Jordie continue to embrace their fabulousness... I also love that they talk about their gender affirming care and not only support each other, but start their medical journeys at the same time!
I truly appreciated the found family friend group, as well as way the families were written.
This story has little relationship angst, but just enough real life angst about introducing the world to their authentic selves. It was a beautiful story and a wonderful addition tot he Diner Days series. It can be read standalone, however all of the Diner Days books I've read have been amazing and wonderful, so read them all!
I love watching Ray emerge from his cocoon and Jordie continue to embrace their fabulousness... I also love that they talk about their gender affirming care and not only support each other, but start their medical journeys at the same time!
I truly appreciated the found family friend group, as well as way the families were written.
This story has little relationship angst, but just enough real life angst about introducing the world to their authentic selves. It was a beautiful story and a wonderful addition tot he Diner Days series. It can be read standalone, however all of the Diner Days books I've read have been amazing and wonderful, so read them all!
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