The countdown to graduation is on, but for Tay, Toby, and Third, real life is just beginning.
The trio of best friends—Tay, Toby, and Third—are about to face their most 'adult' year yet. As Tay and Toby dive deeper into their relationship, navigating the excitement of firsts and the intimacy of being together, they find themselves discovering everything they’ve always wanted. Meanwhile, Third is on his own journey of self-discovery and where he falls on the asexuality spectrum, embracing and exploring what it means to find a connection in a world that too often prioritizes romantic/physical relationships. He's learning to define his own path, finding strength in his unwavering friendship with Tay and Toby, and discovering that love comes in many forms.
As the countdown to graduation begins, the trio face the anticipation of senior prom, finals, the excitement and anticipation of college, and the goodbyes to the familiar halls of their high school. Through it all, their friendship remains the anchor, a constant source of support and understanding. They’re learning that love and friendship aren’t about fitting into a mold, but about embracing their authentic selves and the unique bonds that connect them.
'It's All Good Until Everyone Finds Out' is a heartwarming story about the power of friendship, the beauty of first love, and the courage to forge your own path, even when the future seems uncertain. It's about finding your place in the world, surrounded by the people who love you for exactly who you are.
Not seeing myself on TV, movies, or in books when I grew up, I wanted to create characters I could relate to. I want someone growing up and questioning everything about themselves to see someone like them in my stories. I hope these characters mean as much to you as they do to me.
I've recently discovered the world of BL - boys love dramas - mostly Asian, with my favorites coming from Thailand. Watching these dramas with 2 boys in love at the center of the stories is so refreshing to see. I would have love to seen this kind of representation when I was young!
A trio plan their college education; with adult living
In this third book of the series "It's all Good until," Beck Lewis solidifies the relationship between Tay and Toby, each encouraging the other to take it at their own pace together. Third is grappling with his realization that he is asexual but open to further exploration.
This trio and their steadfast friends navigate the final year of high school with a new health education teacher, who is gay and married to a man. Here, Beck writes in an almost textbook manner, conveying the information the teacher imparts to the students, who are separated by gender in this class. This leads to an awakening for some students and confirmation for others.
Additionally, Toby's mother is depicted as homophobic, while his grandmother serves as an ally, leading to a happy ending for Toby's coming out when he feels ready. Tay and Toby are prepared for their next step after prom, which, although significant for the two of them, also propels them along their journey.
I value good character development where motivations are anticipated and expected, avoiding robotic and programmed responses to situations. In this case, Beck Lewis has given us three remarkable characters.
This is a strong series. While Beck Lewis' writing can sometimes be simplistic, in other instances—such as the delivery of information in the health class—it is detailed, factual, and conversational in its textbook presentation.
Kudos to Mr. Lewis for his commitment to portraying the high school experience as meaningful yet not burdensome, and for giving these characters rich, fulfilling lives. Two of the trio are Asian-American, and this representation is respectfully depicted through their distinct Thai and Korean cultures. This dynamic adds depth to the story, showing how family members in their parents' countries of origin remain connected to those in America. There is some angst in this process, but it is handled well.
There's mention of a fourth book, but I have yet to locate it. When I do, I'll read it to see the continuation of the growth of these very mature and well-developed characters.