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Pages of My Heart
When the world tries to tear them apart, will their love survive?
Chicago, 1937. Charlie Miller is a twenty-year-old mechanic with a good job and a steady girl, but if his violent father ever learns of his true nature, it could cost him his life. The last thing he should do is risk it all by frequenting a queer underground club on a Saturday night. But then a tall red-haired boy stumbles in, wide-eyed and beautiful, and playing it safe is no longer an option.
Eighteen-year-old Tommy O’Reilly, a curious but naïve literature student, walks into an illegal nightclub in downtown Chicago, searching for answers to the unspoken longing inside him. When he sets his sights on another young man with raven hair and arctic blue eyes, he thinks maybe he finally understands what his favorite love poets are talking about.
But in a world that won’t allow them to love, secrecy is survival. As war looms, their fragile happiness is shattered, and they are torn apart by forces far beyond their control. Through heartbreak, distance, and the horrors of battle, only their letters keep them tethered.
A sweeping, achingly romantic tale of forbidden love, Pages of My Heart is perfect for fans of Fellow Travelers and In Memoriam.
Chicago, 1937. Charlie Miller is a twenty-year-old mechanic with a good job and a steady girl, but if his violent father ever learns of his true nature, it could cost him his life. The last thing he should do is risk it all by frequenting a queer underground club on a Saturday night. But then a tall red-haired boy stumbles in, wide-eyed and beautiful, and playing it safe is no longer an option.
Eighteen-year-old Tommy O’Reilly, a curious but naïve literature student, walks into an illegal nightclub in downtown Chicago, searching for answers to the unspoken longing inside him. When he sets his sights on another young man with raven hair and arctic blue eyes, he thinks maybe he finally understands what his favorite love poets are talking about.
But in a world that won’t allow them to love, secrecy is survival. As war looms, their fragile happiness is shattered, and they are torn apart by forces far beyond their control. Through heartbreak, distance, and the horrors of battle, only their letters keep them tethered.
A sweeping, achingly romantic tale of forbidden love, Pages of My Heart is perfect for fans of Fellow Travelers and In Memoriam.
378 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2025
About the author
Rae Roberts
4 books42 followersRae Roberts is a queer author who writes emotional, heartfelt, and unapologetically MM romance. With a background in performing arts and a current career as a counsellor, Rae brings a deep understanding of people—their strengths, fears and fragile hopes—to every story she writes.
Her characters are raw and real, often navigating identity, grief and trauma on their journey to connection and unconditional love. Rae's stories explore the messy, beautiful complexity of queer love. The kind that lingers, transforms, and ultimately heals. She believes in a happily ever after, but only after putting her characters (and readers), through the emotional wringer.
When she's not writing or working with clients, Rae is probably dreaming up her next emotionally devastating plot, sipping a hot chocolate, or curled up on the couch binge-watching a drama series.
Pages of My Heart is her debut novel. Adrift Without You will be released in October, 2025. Rae resides in Melbourne, Australia.
"I spent much of my life concealing my queerness. But through the creative process of writing, and writing queer love stories, I found self-acceptance and the courage to live authentically. I have so many more stories to share, and I can't wait to share them with you!"
~ Rae 💜
Her characters are raw and real, often navigating identity, grief and trauma on their journey to connection and unconditional love. Rae's stories explore the messy, beautiful complexity of queer love. The kind that lingers, transforms, and ultimately heals. She believes in a happily ever after, but only after putting her characters (and readers), through the emotional wringer.
When she's not writing or working with clients, Rae is probably dreaming up her next emotionally devastating plot, sipping a hot chocolate, or curled up on the couch binge-watching a drama series.
Pages of My Heart is her debut novel. Adrift Without You will be released in October, 2025. Rae resides in Melbourne, Australia.
"I spent much of my life concealing my queerness. But through the creative process of writing, and writing queer love stories, I found self-acceptance and the courage to live authentically. I have so many more stories to share, and I can't wait to share them with you!"
~ Rae 💜
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 29, 2026
I cannot believe how under hyped this book is. I have no clue how it hasn't gotten more attention. It is a beautiful, painful, and necessary read with a well deserved happy ending, and all the yearning you could ask for. I need everyone to stop what they’re doing and add to their tbr immediately.
This story follows Charlie and Thomas, two men who meet in an illegal gay club during the WWII era. Their connection is immediate and sweet. But what truly defines them is the fierce, unwavering loyalty they have for each other, especially through all of their undeserved struggles. The way they fight for their love in a world that would see them imprisoned is nothing short of breathtaking.
The hidden touches they share in public to stay under the radar absolutely shattered me realizing what's at stake during this time period. A handhold under a movie theater armrest becomes a declaration of love and a dangerous act of defiance. The way they had to steal moments of intimacy in alleys, in boats, and in borrowed rooms, always looking over their shoulders, made every whispered word and gentle touch feel like a stolen treasure.
The letters they exchange during the war are some of the most beautiful and heart wrenching passages I've ever read. Thomas's words to Charlie.
And as we grow older, we’ll sit out on the front porch in the summertime and sip cold beers. Maybe I’ll read to you, and you’ll rest your head on my shoulder. I imagine a future where the world won’t mind so much, and I’ll be able to place a loving kiss to your temple and hold your hand in mine. One day, Charlie. One day.”
These letters hold all of the aching hope and quiet desperation. They hold onto a dream that is sooo far out of reach yet they refuse to let it go. And when they finally reunite after the war ends, in a crowd of celebrating strangers where no one is watching, Thomas throws caution to the wind and kisses Charlie. This quiet act of defiance in a world that has spent years telling them their love is wrong was everything.
This book covers some sensitive topics, but the author handled them with care. The depiction of Charlie's PTSD after the war is especially raw and honest, showing his struggle with nightmares, guilt, and his own sense of being "broken." And Thomas's own battles with his mental health are portrayed with a deep, painful realism that makes their commitment to care for each other, in sickness and in health(even though it’s not legally binding), all the more powerful. When Thomas gently tells Charlie, "You're my husband, and I need you," after Charlie returns from the war a shell of himself 😭😭
I also appreciate how the book makes you think about the logistics of love in a time when you couldn't speak openly or just "Google it." It is interesting to consider how people in the LGBTQIA+ community had to learn how to have experiences with each other before knowledge was so easily accessed.
Overall, this story really puts into perspective how far the LGBTQIA+ community has come. Highly recommend. And it just has the sweetest most satisfying ending. I couldn’t stop sobbing for these two.
This story follows Charlie and Thomas, two men who meet in an illegal gay club during the WWII era. Their connection is immediate and sweet. But what truly defines them is the fierce, unwavering loyalty they have for each other, especially through all of their undeserved struggles. The way they fight for their love in a world that would see them imprisoned is nothing short of breathtaking.
The hidden touches they share in public to stay under the radar absolutely shattered me realizing what's at stake during this time period. A handhold under a movie theater armrest becomes a declaration of love and a dangerous act of defiance. The way they had to steal moments of intimacy in alleys, in boats, and in borrowed rooms, always looking over their shoulders, made every whispered word and gentle touch feel like a stolen treasure.
The letters they exchange during the war are some of the most beautiful and heart wrenching passages I've ever read. Thomas's words to Charlie.
And as we grow older, we’ll sit out on the front porch in the summertime and sip cold beers. Maybe I’ll read to you, and you’ll rest your head on my shoulder. I imagine a future where the world won’t mind so much, and I’ll be able to place a loving kiss to your temple and hold your hand in mine. One day, Charlie. One day.”
These letters hold all of the aching hope and quiet desperation. They hold onto a dream that is sooo far out of reach yet they refuse to let it go. And when they finally reunite after the war ends, in a crowd of celebrating strangers where no one is watching, Thomas throws caution to the wind and kisses Charlie. This quiet act of defiance in a world that has spent years telling them their love is wrong was everything.
This book covers some sensitive topics, but the author handled them with care. The depiction of Charlie's PTSD after the war is especially raw and honest, showing his struggle with nightmares, guilt, and his own sense of being "broken." And Thomas's own battles with his mental health are portrayed with a deep, painful realism that makes their commitment to care for each other, in sickness and in health(even though it’s not legally binding), all the more powerful. When Thomas gently tells Charlie, "You're my husband, and I need you," after Charlie returns from the war a shell of himself 😭😭
I also appreciate how the book makes you think about the logistics of love in a time when you couldn't speak openly or just "Google it." It is interesting to consider how people in the LGBTQIA+ community had to learn how to have experiences with each other before knowledge was so easily accessed.
Overall, this story really puts into perspective how far the LGBTQIA+ community has come. Highly recommend. And it just has the sweetest most satisfying ending. I couldn’t stop sobbing for these two.
January 27, 2025
Wow. This was such a deeply emotional and impactful love story. A little overly sweet at times (pet names and slow dances are not my thing), but overall a truly beautiful book that made me cry multiple times. The epilogue really got to me since we're now learning that anything given can be taken away when power is placed in hateful hands. It's sad when a book written about the 1930's and 40's feels timely. But even though Thomas and Charlie deserved better, their happy ending made the pain of getting there worth it. I'm so impressed by this debut and look forward to reading what this author writes next.
November 3, 2026
UPD (initial thoughts at the end):
I had to put on some music and pour myself some wine.
The music is ODESZA - Last Goodbye.
I remember so vividly listening to it on February 23rd, 2022, just hours before the full-scale invasion on my country began.
This book is a story with feelings and emotions so big that you'll probably find yourself overwhelmed more than once.
But it's not the bad kind of overwhelmed.
It's that feeling when your heart seems too big for your chest, aching for two boys caught in some of the most impossible circumstances, still desperately trying to make things work.
“I feel hollow all the time.
My chest hurts, and my heart calls for you.”
This is one of those books where the emotions catch up with you almost immediately. When the writing, the characters, and the atmosphere simply fall into place.
“I think God put us here to find love.
To love someone and look after them and care for them.”
Thomas and Charlie were both so beautiful. I loved watching them work through their insecurities and find a way to make things work despite everything standing between them.
I absolutely adored their soulmate, star-crossed kind of love. I have zero complaints about their relationship because the sincerity of their feelings, combined with the forbidden nature of it all, made their story absolutely wonderful.
I also loved the care that went into the setting and the side characters. And considering the historical period, we needed both the absolutely wonderful sister we wanted to hug and the people we desperately wanted to punch!!
The letters broke my poor heart. Every. Single. Time.
WAR IS THE MOST CRUEL THING ON EARTH.
Especially when you're nothing but collateral damage.
Like the boys from the US sent to Europe because Japan bombed Pearl Harbour.
Like my son's classmate, who was killed by a russian drone while having dinner in her building next to ours.
Like us, living through this every single day.
The writing deserves a separate mention, too. The timelines were handled beautifully. Not once did I feel confused or disconnected, and everything came together so naturally, leading us towards..
THE ENDING.
I was just ugly crying.
Because of everything obviously, but honestly - its one of the best approaches to an ending I've read this year.
I won't pretend to be 100% objective about this book.
I simply can't be.
But if you want a story filled with feelings so pure and powerful that they somehow manage to rise above even the most awful reality, this one is for you.
INITIAL THOUGHTS
“Yes! Yes! The war is over!”
I need some time to process this line.
the line that I have spent almost five years dreaming about finally hearing every day amid the explosions and death around me. Especially since it’s been two days without water supply, heating and electricity here.
Then I’ll go through one of the absolutely best endings I’ve read this year.
Shaping all my other breathtaking emotions into a cohesive review this amazing book deserves.
Thank you, Rachael Hamilton 🫂
I think you might love it, Kateryna 🫂
I had to put on some music and pour myself some wine.
The music is ODESZA - Last Goodbye.
I remember so vividly listening to it on February 23rd, 2022, just hours before the full-scale invasion on my country began.
This book is a story with feelings and emotions so big that you'll probably find yourself overwhelmed more than once.
But it's not the bad kind of overwhelmed.
It's that feeling when your heart seems too big for your chest, aching for two boys caught in some of the most impossible circumstances, still desperately trying to make things work.
“I feel hollow all the time.
My chest hurts, and my heart calls for you.”
This is one of those books where the emotions catch up with you almost immediately. When the writing, the characters, and the atmosphere simply fall into place.
“I think God put us here to find love.
To love someone and look after them and care for them.”
Thomas and Charlie were both so beautiful. I loved watching them work through their insecurities and find a way to make things work despite everything standing between them.
I absolutely adored their soulmate, star-crossed kind of love. I have zero complaints about their relationship because the sincerity of their feelings, combined with the forbidden nature of it all, made their story absolutely wonderful.
I also loved the care that went into the setting and the side characters. And considering the historical period, we needed both the absolutely wonderful sister we wanted to hug and the people we desperately wanted to punch!!
The letters broke my poor heart. Every. Single. Time.
WAR IS THE MOST CRUEL THING ON EARTH.
Especially when you're nothing but collateral damage.
Like the boys from the US sent to Europe because Japan bombed Pearl Harbour.
Like my son's classmate, who was killed by a russian drone while having dinner in her building next to ours.
Like us, living through this every single day.
The writing deserves a separate mention, too. The timelines were handled beautifully. Not once did I feel confused or disconnected, and everything came together so naturally, leading us towards..
THE ENDING.
I was just ugly crying.
Because of everything obviously, but honestly - its one of the best approaches to an ending I've read this year.
I won't pretend to be 100% objective about this book.
I simply can't be.
But if you want a story filled with feelings so pure and powerful that they somehow manage to rise above even the most awful reality, this one is for you.
INITIAL THOUGHTS
“Yes! Yes! The war is over!”
I need some time to process this line.
the line that I have spent almost five years dreaming about finally hearing every day amid the explosions and death around me. Especially since it’s been two days without water supply, heating and electricity here.
Then I’ll go through one of the absolutely best endings I’ve read this year.
Shaping all my other breathtaking emotions into a cohesive review this amazing book deserves.
Thank you, Rachael Hamilton 🫂
I think you might love it, Kateryna 🫂
July 10, 2026
*wiping away tears and taking a deep breath. First, a round of applause for the masterful way this emotional story is told.
For the first two-thirds of the book, the author blends a dual-timeline structure with a mix of standard narrative and epistolary format, which makes the reading experience incredibly immersive and interesting.
The author’s use of the epistolary elements is brilliant. These letters feel authentic and perfectly formatted—instead of standard dual-POV war narration, the letters allow the reader to truly live through the MCs’ experiences and emotions.
Beyond that, there’s something profoundly romantic about wartime correspondence. It serves as a beautiful testament to the fact that no matter what horrors they face, love finds a way to keep the connection alive. (Yeah, I'm looking at those "ghosted for years" second chance romance.🙄)
Even better, the letters are cleverly peppered with subtle clues that correspond to events unfolding in the other timeline, which had me racing through the pages, dying to know what would happen next.
The final third of the story is incredibly heavy and raw. Witnessing Charlie struggle with his PTSD was heartbreaking, but seeing Thomas stand by him and help him navigate through the darkness was everything. I spent most of the time in tears—mourning the scars of war, yet moved to pieces by the strength of their love.
And that ending... my god. No spoilers here, but I truly wish so many more Charlies and Thomases could have lived to see the world as it is today.
If there’s one thing that could be improved, it’s the 'insta-lust' start. I really wish there had been more intellectual chemistry between the mechanic and the literature student. For example, it would’ve been fascinating to see Charlie—who loves books but never had the chance to study them—explore that world through Thomas. Having Thomas mentor him or simply share those literary moments would have added so much more depth to their connection.
All in all, a 5⭐️ hidden gem. Thank you, Rachael , for bring this story to me!
For the first two-thirds of the book, the author blends a dual-timeline structure with a mix of standard narrative and epistolary format, which makes the reading experience incredibly immersive and interesting.
The author’s use of the epistolary elements is brilliant. These letters feel authentic and perfectly formatted—instead of standard dual-POV war narration, the letters allow the reader to truly live through the MCs’ experiences and emotions.
Beyond that, there’s something profoundly romantic about wartime correspondence. It serves as a beautiful testament to the fact that no matter what horrors they face, love finds a way to keep the connection alive. (Yeah, I'm looking at those "ghosted for years" second chance romance.🙄)
Even better, the letters are cleverly peppered with subtle clues that correspond to events unfolding in the other timeline, which had me racing through the pages, dying to know what would happen next.
The final third of the story is incredibly heavy and raw. Witnessing Charlie struggle with his PTSD was heartbreaking, but seeing Thomas stand by him and help him navigate through the darkness was everything. I spent most of the time in tears—mourning the scars of war, yet moved to pieces by the strength of their love.
And that ending... my god. No spoilers here, but I truly wish so many more Charlies and Thomases could have lived to see the world as it is today.
If there’s one thing that could be improved, it’s the 'insta-lust' start. I really wish there had been more intellectual chemistry between the mechanic and the literature student. For example, it would’ve been fascinating to see Charlie—who loves books but never had the chance to study them—explore that world through Thomas. Having Thomas mentor him or simply share those literary moments would have added so much more depth to their connection.
All in all, a 5⭐️ hidden gem. Thank you, Rachael , for bring this story to me!
March 3, 2025
Wow 🥰
It’s so beautifully written and so well done for a debut novel. Even the cover is gorgeous.
It reminds me a little of the film, The Longest Ride, with Ira and Ruth sending letters back and forth. So it had a familiarity to it that I enjoyed. The love between these two, the heartbreak, the fear, and the joy is such a powerfully emotional thing to read.
Charlie and Thomas were both gorgeous characters. You felt right along with them. Feeling their love and pain was unavoidable. I LOVE books that make me feel this way. I love to be happy crying, sad crying, snot-faced joy. All of it.
I also feel for the people who are stepping stones. Unavoidably, without malice, but nevertheless pawns in a world where you can’t just be who you want to be. Ruthie in this case, and all the girls they double-dated with. All the women and men who had to marry into loveless relationships, just because society told them to.
Yes, we can probably dive deep and say there are parts that just aren’t historically realistic. Parts where you think this wouldn’t have ended that well here. But this did happen, maybe not in letter form across wars, but it happened and these people made it and brought about the change we see today.
I adored this book and I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait for more from this author if this is what can happen in a debut book! I have a feeling Charlie and Red will be in my head for a while yet. 😍
It’s so beautifully written and so well done for a debut novel. Even the cover is gorgeous.
It reminds me a little of the film, The Longest Ride, with Ira and Ruth sending letters back and forth. So it had a familiarity to it that I enjoyed. The love between these two, the heartbreak, the fear, and the joy is such a powerfully emotional thing to read.
Charlie and Thomas were both gorgeous characters. You felt right along with them. Feeling their love and pain was unavoidable. I LOVE books that make me feel this way. I love to be happy crying, sad crying, snot-faced joy. All of it.
I also feel for the people who are stepping stones. Unavoidably, without malice, but nevertheless pawns in a world where you can’t just be who you want to be. Ruthie in this case, and all the girls they double-dated with. All the women and men who had to marry into loveless relationships, just because society told them to.
Yes, we can probably dive deep and say there are parts that just aren’t historically realistic. Parts where you think this wouldn’t have ended that well here. But this did happen, maybe not in letter form across wars, but it happened and these people made it and brought about the change we see today.
I adored this book and I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait for more from this author if this is what can happen in a debut book! I have a feeling Charlie and Red will be in my head for a while yet. 😍
March 27, 2026
4.75 stars
wow. wowowowow. how in the heck does this only have 70 reviews???? more people need to read this pleaseeee.
the best word to describe this book is romantic. it so so beautiful and heart wrenching and extremely romantic.
i absolutely adore historical romances and this one delivered. the letters were so beautiful ugh my heart😭💔.
this isn’t a full 5 star for me because it felt a little insta lovey and there are some repetitive moments but i can mostly ignore that because the writing is pretty good (especially considering it’s a debut) and it was just so beautiful. this couple, these characters, the hardships they had to go through… it makes me so sad but so happy just thinking about them<3.
wow. wowowowow. how in the heck does this only have 70 reviews???? more people need to read this pleaseeee.
the best word to describe this book is romantic. it so so beautiful and heart wrenching and extremely romantic.
i absolutely adore historical romances and this one delivered. the letters were so beautiful ugh my heart😭💔.
this isn’t a full 5 star for me because it felt a little insta lovey and there are some repetitive moments but i can mostly ignore that because the writing is pretty good (especially considering it’s a debut) and it was just so beautiful. this couple, these characters, the hardships they had to go through… it makes me so sad but so happy just thinking about them<3.
April 27, 2025
4.25⭐
The storyline and writing were great, packed with emotions and a well-deserved happy ending.
However, the romance between Charlie and Thomas developed way too quickly; it felt like they went from meeting to being in love almost instantly.
The story might be a bit too flowery to be realistic, but it aligns well with the comfort and hurt theme.
The storyline and writing were great, packed with emotions and a well-deserved happy ending.
However, the romance between Charlie and Thomas developed way too quickly; it felt like they went from meeting to being in love almost instantly.
The story might be a bit too flowery to be realistic, but it aligns well with the comfort and hurt theme.
November 4, 2026
I think historical fiction really does something to my heart. Maybe this one hit me harder because I'm part of the community. I honestly can't imagine how hard it must have been to be gay back then, when you couldn't just love someone openly without having to worry about so many things.
And these two already had so much to go through with their relationship, then there's the war on top of everything. Ugh. It really wasn't easy for them. I cried reading this.
Also, shout-out to Rachael Hamilton for her review that made me pick this book up! I've been struggling to find a book that would really make me feel something, something that would stay with me or actually make me cry. I was hoping this would be that book, and I'm so glad I gave it a chance. I think this might be one of my favorite reads this year.
I just really felt their love and everything they went through. And I'm so, so happy they got their HEA. After all that, they deserved it. ❤️🩹
November 5, 2026
Okay, let me tell you—this story is one of the most beautiful I’ve ever read 💖. It touched me incredibly deeply and left me in tears 😭.
The way these two young men stick together during a time that’s more than difficult—their unconditional love—is so moving! How they overcome separation, trauma, and mental health struggles together is truly admirable. The steamy scenes are filled with passion and tenderness, and at the same time, they’re so spicy ❤️🔥! I’ve fallen head over heels for Charlie and Thomas.
In my opinion, everyone should read this book—go get it, and have your tissues ready! I highly, highly recommend it.
The way these two young men stick together during a time that’s more than difficult—their unconditional love—is so moving! How they overcome separation, trauma, and mental health struggles together is truly admirable. The steamy scenes are filled with passion and tenderness, and at the same time, they’re so spicy ❤️🔥! I’ve fallen head over heels for Charlie and Thomas.
In my opinion, everyone should read this book—go get it, and have your tissues ready! I highly, highly recommend it.
February 10, 2026
A M/M ROMANCE that STOLE MY HEART, BROKE IT, then FIXED IT! What a BEAUTIFUL piece of a MASTERPIECE that combines GAY LOVE and HISTORICAL FICTION of WORLD WAR II! I absolutely enjoyed the emotional love story of Thomas and Charlie and feel like this is an important book to read to understand what it was like back then. The whole story was wonderful and I am definitely going to read more of the author’s works! Would definitely recommend!
June 8, 2026
Charlie and Tommy were so sweet 🥹 I loved them all the way through!
Although I do think the book could’ve ended at the last chapter instead of the epilogue, and also not included the prologue. In my mind book characters never die, so the prologue and epilogue being set after Charlie and Tommy have passed away and in the pov of their great grand daughter who they didn’t even know made the ending feel less happy to me. I understand the premise of it showing that gay marriage was finally legal, but idk I just don’t like when characters die because in my mind, they don’t. I don’t even know how or when they died and that leaves me feeling unsettled.
Although I do think the book could’ve ended at the last chapter instead of the epilogue, and also not included the prologue. In my mind book characters never die, so the prologue and epilogue being set after Charlie and Tommy have passed away and in the pov of their great grand daughter who they didn’t even know made the ending feel less happy to me. I understand the premise of it showing that gay marriage was finally legal, but idk I just don’t like when characters die because in my mind, they don’t. I don’t even know how or when they died and that leaves me feeling unsettled.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2025
wow this as a debut novel? i'm in shock this doesn't have more reviews!!! a heartbreaking but absolutely loving story about Tommy and Charlie who fall in love the 1930's where they have to hide their sexuality but still get that happy ending after Charlie had to go to war. this book is about shame, hiding who you are, hardships, trauma but most of all undeniably loving <3
check trigger warnings!!!!
check trigger warnings!!!!
November 27, 2024
A MM romance with angsty pining and war-torn lovers who have to hide their relationship because it’s 1937? Sign me up.
4.5/5 stars
- Love Letters
- Pining
- Secret Relationship
- PTSD & Hurt/Comfort
This was an insta-lust forbidden love story that followed Charlie and Tommy as they navigate a world where their sexuality is illegal. Freshly 18 years-old, Tommy braves an illegal gay club for the first time, shy and nervous. It’s love at first sight for Charlie and so their long and devastating story begins.
Charlie is drafted into the war and Tommy gets left behind. How can they manage their distance and pining and still keep their relationship secret? This is truly a heart-wrenching and emotional historical romance. The war letters that they wrote to each other and the hurt/comfort is really what cemented this as one of my favourite debut novels of the year.
There are themes of grief and PTSD so make sure to check your triggers if needed. If not, you’ll be glad to go into this blind. You can discover the highs and lows of 1940’s queer experience and two clueless virgins (without access to the internet).
Bonus points for a really strong supporting female character who created an incredible sense of found family.
Thank-you to the author for gifting me a copy with no expectation of review. This review is my honest opinion.
4.5/5 stars
- Love Letters
- Pining
- Secret Relationship
- PTSD & Hurt/Comfort
This was an insta-lust forbidden love story that followed Charlie and Tommy as they navigate a world where their sexuality is illegal. Freshly 18 years-old, Tommy braves an illegal gay club for the first time, shy and nervous. It’s love at first sight for Charlie and so their long and devastating story begins.
Charlie is drafted into the war and Tommy gets left behind. How can they manage their distance and pining and still keep their relationship secret? This is truly a heart-wrenching and emotional historical romance. The war letters that they wrote to each other and the hurt/comfort is really what cemented this as one of my favourite debut novels of the year.
There are themes of grief and PTSD so make sure to check your triggers if needed. If not, you’ll be glad to go into this blind. You can discover the highs and lows of 1940’s queer experience and two clueless virgins (without access to the internet).
Bonus points for a really strong supporting female character who created an incredible sense of found family.
Thank-you to the author for gifting me a copy with no expectation of review. This review is my honest opinion.
October 25, 2024
5 stars!! 🩵🩵 my first five star read in a long time. I adored this book. I was also so blown away to see it was a debut, i will be keeping my eye out for future releases by this author. Also, my Aussie heart is super happy to see this was an Aussie author. :) onto the book: it was emotional, heavy but could also be so light and beautiful. This was a true love story that you really root for, and rooting for Charlie & Thomas was so easy as you find yourself loving them easily too. A great book with a well deserved HEA
February 3, 2025
♾️♾️♾️
I couldn't put this down, and now I'm finished I wanna read it all over again
It was so beautiful 🥹🥹🥹
I have a full review that i wrote in the middle of reading cus i loved it that much but I need a minute to perfect it cus I'm so emotional,
This was perfect 🥹
I couldn't put this down, and now I'm finished I wanna read it all over again
It was so beautiful 🥹🥹🥹
I have a full review that i wrote in the middle of reading cus i loved it that much but I need a minute to perfect it cus I'm so emotional,
This was perfect 🥹
January 24, 2025
This was such a beautiful story. 🫶🏼
October 18, 2026
🥹🥹🥹
I just loved this.
Que história linda, cheia de emoção e superação. Lágrimas e muita alegria no final.
Tudo bem contado desde o princípio. Todas as lutas contadas juntas. Todos os desafios. E o amor deles 😮💨 simplesmente excelente.
I just loved this.
Que história linda, cheia de emoção e superação. Lágrimas e muita alegria no final.
Tudo bem contado desde o princípio. Todas as lutas contadas juntas. Todos os desafios. E o amor deles 😮💨 simplesmente excelente.
September 13, 2026
Some books entertain you. Some make you fall hopelessly in love with the characters. And then there are books like Pages of My Heart that somehow find their way beneath your skin, settle into your heart, and refuse to leave. This was one of those books for me and it made me a blubbering mess by the end. How is this book not getting more love like it deserves?
Thomas (Red) and Charlie meet at an illegal queer club in 1937, at a time when simply being who you are could put you in danger. Their connection is immediate, their attraction undeniable, and as their feelings begin to deepen, they find themselves falling into something neither of them can easily walk away from. But loving each other comes with a terrifying price. They have to find stolen moments and secret places to be together, because something as simple as touching, longing gazes, or showing even the smallest hint of affection could expose them. Their love has to exist in the shadows, hidden from a world that tells them what they feel is wrong.
Charlie absolutely broke my heart. On the surface, he's everything the world expects him to be, tough, masculine, one of the guys. But beneath that carefully constructed exterior is a much softer, more vulnerable man who longs to be able to let his guard down and surrender to someone he trusts. He's spent his entire life hiding pieces of himself, terrified of what would happen if anyone discovered the truth. Especially his abusive father, whose hatred and violence make Charlie's home anything but safe.
Thomas, on the other hand, sees the world through younger, more hopeful eyes. He's curious about his desires and feelings, and there's something incredibly endearing about the way he discovers this new part of himself. But don't mistake his innocence for weakness. Thomas is loyal, brave and possesses a quiet inner strength.
Their relationship is so incredibly tender. There is sweetness in the way they discover each other, but there's also vulnerability, fear and messiness. Because how do you build a life with someone when your love has to remain hidden? How do you express affection when even reaching for their hand could put you at risk?
Watching these two men be torn apart by war absolutely shattered me. Their letters to one another during their separation were some of the most heartbreaking yet beautiful parts of the story. You could feel the longing between every word, the desperate need to remain connected when distance and circumstances were doing everything possible to pull them apart.
When Charlie returns from the war wounded and struggling with PTSD, Thomas becomes his rock. Their love isn't magically easy. It's patient, complicated and full of the kind of devotion that means staying when things are difficult and choosing someone even when they aren't okay.
Rae has created something truly special here. This isn't simply a love story. It's a story about finding the courage to be yourself, about loving someone in a world that tells you not to, and about two people who continue choosing each other when everything around them is trying to tear them apart.
Their love survives secrecy, separation, war, wounds, trauma, fear and the cruel voices telling them that what they share is wrong and that's what made this story so incredibly beautiful.
Sometimes the greatest love stories aren't the easy ones. They're the ones where two people keep reaching for each other, keep finding their way back to one another, and keep choosing love even when the world tells them they shouldn't.
Charlie and Thomas deserved every beautiful moment of their very hard earned HEA.
Pages of My Heart is emotional, heartbreaking, tender and utterly unforgettable. This is a story that has lodged itself firmly in my heart, and I know I'll be thinking about Charlie and Thomas for a very, very long time.
Thomas (Red) and Charlie meet at an illegal queer club in 1937, at a time when simply being who you are could put you in danger. Their connection is immediate, their attraction undeniable, and as their feelings begin to deepen, they find themselves falling into something neither of them can easily walk away from. But loving each other comes with a terrifying price. They have to find stolen moments and secret places to be together, because something as simple as touching, longing gazes, or showing even the smallest hint of affection could expose them. Their love has to exist in the shadows, hidden from a world that tells them what they feel is wrong.
Charlie absolutely broke my heart. On the surface, he's everything the world expects him to be, tough, masculine, one of the guys. But beneath that carefully constructed exterior is a much softer, more vulnerable man who longs to be able to let his guard down and surrender to someone he trusts. He's spent his entire life hiding pieces of himself, terrified of what would happen if anyone discovered the truth. Especially his abusive father, whose hatred and violence make Charlie's home anything but safe.
Thomas, on the other hand, sees the world through younger, more hopeful eyes. He's curious about his desires and feelings, and there's something incredibly endearing about the way he discovers this new part of himself. But don't mistake his innocence for weakness. Thomas is loyal, brave and possesses a quiet inner strength.
Their relationship is so incredibly tender. There is sweetness in the way they discover each other, but there's also vulnerability, fear and messiness. Because how do you build a life with someone when your love has to remain hidden? How do you express affection when even reaching for their hand could put you at risk?
Watching these two men be torn apart by war absolutely shattered me. Their letters to one another during their separation were some of the most heartbreaking yet beautiful parts of the story. You could feel the longing between every word, the desperate need to remain connected when distance and circumstances were doing everything possible to pull them apart.
When Charlie returns from the war wounded and struggling with PTSD, Thomas becomes his rock. Their love isn't magically easy. It's patient, complicated and full of the kind of devotion that means staying when things are difficult and choosing someone even when they aren't okay.
Rae has created something truly special here. This isn't simply a love story. It's a story about finding the courage to be yourself, about loving someone in a world that tells you not to, and about two people who continue choosing each other when everything around them is trying to tear them apart.
Their love survives secrecy, separation, war, wounds, trauma, fear and the cruel voices telling them that what they share is wrong and that's what made this story so incredibly beautiful.
Sometimes the greatest love stories aren't the easy ones. They're the ones where two people keep reaching for each other, keep finding their way back to one another, and keep choosing love even when the world tells them they shouldn't.
Charlie and Thomas deserved every beautiful moment of their very hard earned HEA.
Pages of My Heart is emotional, heartbreaking, tender and utterly unforgettable. This is a story that has lodged itself firmly in my heart, and I know I'll be thinking about Charlie and Thomas for a very, very long time.
December 28, 2024
10/10 would recommend! This book made my heart melt. It had so much joy and heartache that it had me rooting for Tommy and Charlie the whole way through. This book needs to be read and enjoyed by everyone.
June 21, 2025
Oh. My. Goodness.
This story is utterly all consuming. I have been unable to put it down. I don’t know how I move on from this.
Quite simply, it is absolutely painstakingly beautiful. It’s a book where you feel everything that the characters feel. I ached and cried with both Charlie and Tommy. My god, did I cry…
It takes us through the journey of Charlie and Thomas meetings as 18 and 20, their immediate lust for each other turned into an inevitable love, and how they struggled to hide it from the world at a time where you could get imprisoned for simply loving someone of the same sex. There are sooo many ups and some extreme downs, but the HEA is worth it.
Also don’t let the beautifulness of this make you think it’s not spicy… It. Is. Heated!! 🔥🥵 I also love the exploration of the two young men back when they literally just had to wing it, as they didn’t have info to hand if ya kno what I mean..
I have never read an MM book like this before (..and I have read a lot!). It is truly one of the greats. Please I beg, give it a chance. This book will not let you down.
This story is utterly all consuming. I have been unable to put it down. I don’t know how I move on from this.
Quite simply, it is absolutely painstakingly beautiful. It’s a book where you feel everything that the characters feel. I ached and cried with both Charlie and Tommy. My god, did I cry…
It takes us through the journey of Charlie and Thomas meetings as 18 and 20, their immediate lust for each other turned into an inevitable love, and how they struggled to hide it from the world at a time where you could get imprisoned for simply loving someone of the same sex. There are sooo many ups and some extreme downs, but the HEA is worth it.
Also don’t let the beautifulness of this make you think it’s not spicy… It. Is. Heated!! 🔥🥵 I also love the exploration of the two young men back when they literally just had to wing it, as they didn’t have info to hand if ya kno what I mean..
I have never read an MM book like this before (..and I have read a lot!). It is truly one of the greats. Please I beg, give it a chance. This book will not let you down.
October 22, 2024
A beautiful love story set in a time when their love was frowned upon even punishable by law, with one living a life that's a lie in so many ways...why? you ask...for his own safety. Will Charlie and Tommy end up happy? I will leave you to find out. I'm so glad I live in 2024 where people are free to love who they want to because Love is Love, and thats what really matters, isn't it?
It's an amazing book written by an amazing Australian author. Give it a read, and I promise you will be happy you did.
Vonnie
It's an amazing book written by an amazing Australian author. Give it a read, and I promise you will be happy you did.
Vonnie
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2025
This book is absolutely beautiful—I’ve laughed, cried, and felt everything in between. It’s been a long time since I enjoyed reading this much, and I genuinely wish more people would give it a chance because it truly deserves more recognition.
I don’t usually write reviews, but this book moved me so much that I had to. The story is captivating, the characters feel real, and every page made me feel something. If you’re hesitating, just read it—you won’t regret it!
I don’t usually write reviews, but this book moved me so much that I had to. The story is captivating, the characters feel real, and every page made me feel something. If you’re hesitating, just read it—you won’t regret it!
October 16, 2025
A heartfelt and fantastic debut novel.
Set in the world war 2 era, Charlie and Thomas navigate their relationship through an unaccepting society and war. Although they do fall in love quite fast it didn’t detract from a gradual growth in their relationship and it was wonderful to see them grow together and navigate self-acceptance, mental health issues and ptsd.
Solid 5 star read
Set in the world war 2 era, Charlie and Thomas navigate their relationship through an unaccepting society and war. Although they do fall in love quite fast it didn’t detract from a gradual growth in their relationship and it was wonderful to see them grow together and navigate self-acceptance, mental health issues and ptsd.
Solid 5 star read
October 2, 2025
4.75 stars ☆⋆˙
June 14, 2026
Reading this book confirmed two things for me: I really enjoy historical romances, and if there’s a micro trope involving letters, notes, texting, or any form of communication filled with yearning and pining, I’m completely obsessed.
Pages of My Heart tells the story of Charlie and Tommy—known throughout the book as Red. They meet in an illegal gay bar in Chicago in 1937, and the story follows them as they discover a special kind of love during an era when being discovered could land them in jail or even cost them their lives.
Their journey spans America’s entry into World War II and carries through to the 1970s, when they finally feel comfortable being truly themselves and showing the world just how much they love one another.
The book tackles difficult themes including homophobia, war, PTSD, and mental health. Yet through it all, Charlie and Red’s relationship shines. Individually they are imperfect, but together they are perfectly perfect.
A thoroughly enjoyable read in my opinion.
Pages of My Heart tells the story of Charlie and Tommy—known throughout the book as Red. They meet in an illegal gay bar in Chicago in 1937, and the story follows them as they discover a special kind of love during an era when being discovered could land them in jail or even cost them their lives.
Their journey spans America’s entry into World War II and carries through to the 1970s, when they finally feel comfortable being truly themselves and showing the world just how much they love one another.
The book tackles difficult themes including homophobia, war, PTSD, and mental health. Yet through it all, Charlie and Red’s relationship shines. Individually they are imperfect, but together they are perfectly perfect.
A thoroughly enjoyable read in my opinion.
October 27, 2026
This was probably the most instalove book I think I’ve read, which is usually not what I go for. I just chalked it up to the times and how people seemed more romantic and committed early on in relationships back then. That’s at least the excuse I’m making for it. There were times this dragged, certain things that wrapped up a little too nicely, and of course the overly sentimental and sappy moments. That being said, it did accomplish pulling on my heart strings. I can understand the author’s choice to not include any details on the main MC’s (or their son’s) passings but I would have liked to know what happened to them and when. How the remaining MC coped with the loss. Did they go around the same time as many long time couples do because they couldn’t live without each other? I guess I’ll have to draw my own conclusion on that. Overall it was a beautiful love story that I think almost every person wishes they could experience. A fated soulmate and a true partner for life. To my dearest Charlie and Red 🥂
November 8, 2026
4.25⭐
This was an excellent debut novel! I have gotten very lucky with the last 3 I’ve read. Its written well & easy to read, even in 3rd person POV.
What a beautiful story of love between two soul mates. I found myself teary-eyed multiple times reading what these two had to go through in order to be together. My heart ached at how they had to hide a love so beautiful because it was dangerous & illegal to be homosexual in the 30s when they first met.
Thomas & Charlie beat the odds. They fought hard for each other behind closed doors. Their love was unwavering even when Charlie was drafted to war. Their love letters were so heartfelt & heartbreaking at the same time. I felt the author depicted the mental health challenges of Thomas & the PTSD after war for Charlie really well.
This was a fantastic read & a beautiful example of unconditional love in a very challenging time. This book is way underhyped.
Charlie Miller & Thomas "Red" O'Reilly
MM romance
WW2 Historical Fiction
Forbidden Love
Soul Mates
Mental Health Rep
This was an excellent debut novel! I have gotten very lucky with the last 3 I’ve read. Its written well & easy to read, even in 3rd person POV.
What a beautiful story of love between two soul mates. I found myself teary-eyed multiple times reading what these two had to go through in order to be together. My heart ached at how they had to hide a love so beautiful because it was dangerous & illegal to be homosexual in the 30s when they first met.
Thomas & Charlie beat the odds. They fought hard for each other behind closed doors. Their love was unwavering even when Charlie was drafted to war. Their love letters were so heartfelt & heartbreaking at the same time. I felt the author depicted the mental health challenges of Thomas & the PTSD after war for Charlie really well.
This was a fantastic read & a beautiful example of unconditional love in a very challenging time. This book is way underhyped.
Charlie Miller & Thomas "Red" O'Reilly
MM romance
WW2 Historical Fiction
Forbidden Love
Soul Mates
Mental Health Rep
September 30, 2026
Rae already knows that I was a HOT MESS at the end of this book! I mean ugly crying, fighting for breath, bloodshot eyes.
WHAT A FUCKING BOOK! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 BRAVO!
Charlie & Thomas,
You did everything right. You felt what you were supposed to feel. You loved the way you were meant to love. And you FOUGHT for what was worth fighting for. I often wonder what it would have been like for myself growing up back then. Pretending, acting, hiding, secrets, etc. I just hope I would have had at least an ounce of the courage you both had. Your love story healed something inside of me I’ve longed for.
Your love story made me self-reflect and appreciate what’s in front of me! Can’t wait to reach your many years alongside my husband too. You crawled and walked so I could RUN.
Thank you!
Adrian x
WHAT A FUCKING BOOK! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 BRAVO!
Charlie & Thomas,
You did everything right. You felt what you were supposed to feel. You loved the way you were meant to love. And you FOUGHT for what was worth fighting for. I often wonder what it would have been like for myself growing up back then. Pretending, acting, hiding, secrets, etc. I just hope I would have had at least an ounce of the courage you both had. Your love story healed something inside of me I’ve longed for.
Your love story made me self-reflect and appreciate what’s in front of me! Can’t wait to reach your many years alongside my husband too. You crawled and walked so I could RUN.
Thank you!
Adrian x
February 10, 2025
This is a WW2-era love story told in dual timelines - one via love letters written between our MCs during the war and another timeline going back to how their relationship began in the 1930s. It’s ridiculously sweet and sappy, sometimes too much, and is also emotional and has a great ending.
My only problem with the story is the constant use of “my darling.” It’s sweet, I get it, but it’s used like 1,000 times. I’m not even joking. It’s Tommy’s favorite saying. Maybe it’s the sarcastic cynic in me, but I just got the ick from it eventually. People don’t talk like that. Maybe they did in the 30s and 40s and I’m just ignorant. Who knows.
I really loved the story otherwise - so much so that I devoured it in a day. Tom and Charlie are sweet and their dynamic with Evie and Johnny is beyond adorable. Definitely glad I picked this one up.
My only problem with the story is the constant use of “my darling.” It’s sweet, I get it, but it’s used like 1,000 times. I’m not even joking. It’s Tommy’s favorite saying. Maybe it’s the sarcastic cynic in me, but I just got the ick from it eventually. People don’t talk like that. Maybe they did in the 30s and 40s and I’m just ignorant. Who knows.
I really loved the story otherwise - so much so that I devoured it in a day. Tom and Charlie are sweet and their dynamic with Evie and Johnny is beyond adorable. Definitely glad I picked this one up.
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