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In Me an Invincible Summer
To an outsider's view, world-famous action star Joe Nestra lives the Hollywood dream—parties, women, and a high-profile divorce. In reality, Joe's agent directs his public life. Those women he's supposedly intimate with? Prearranged dates ending at the red carpet. With his assistant and best friend Derek Simmons's help, Joe has lived safely in the closet since his divorce, choosing to let off steam with discreet male escorts rather than risk an actual boyfriend. At forty-four, he has no plans to change. Then, taking a role in a film without flashy explosions upends that.
When Joe signs on to play an early 1990s-era AIDS-stricken gay man, his internalized homophobia threatens the production. His out costar Hunter Starling won't put up with Joe's behavior. As the animosity between Joe and Hunter grows, saving the film means Joe must face his deepest fear. Challenges pile up from all directions, from his father disowning him to the entertainment industry's backstabbing reaction. Amid the backlash, Joe ventures into his first gay romantic relationship, tries to help others worse off, and slowly learns how to live his life instead of just acting it.
When Joe signs on to play an early 1990s-era AIDS-stricken gay man, his internalized homophobia threatens the production. His out costar Hunter Starling won't put up with Joe's behavior. As the animosity between Joe and Hunter grows, saving the film means Joe must face his deepest fear. Challenges pile up from all directions, from his father disowning him to the entertainment industry's backstabbing reaction. Amid the backlash, Joe ventures into his first gay romantic relationship, tries to help others worse off, and slowly learns how to live his life instead of just acting it.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2014
7 people are currently reading
371 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
March 3, 2019
I wasn't expecting this book to be so well done, but it really was. In Me an Invincible Summer was a incredibly polished, thoughtful story about a man coming to terms with his sexuality and himself for the first time in his life. If the main character, Joe, was younger, I'd call this a coming of age story. Instead, it is an intense, realistic journey of self-discovery.
The blurb is perhaps purposefully vague about who the love interest of the story is, and though I don't consider it to be a major spoiler, I'll be vague too. I also think the blurb is both a little misleading and too revealing. The story is less about small actions and is more about the big picture. I was expecting some knee-jerk story about how Hollywood abandoned one of their biggest stars, but the actual plot was much more subtle. I found it to be really fascinating and very grounded in reality.
I think the strengths of this story are in the character development and the slow, thoughtful plot. There isn't a lot of flash in this story, but there is a ton of emotion. Joe makes a lot of mistakes, and some readers might be a bit put off by his slow uptake. I, however, really enjoyed that aspect of Joe, his flawed nature.
The author also seemed like she had a very good grasp on the ins and outs of Hollywood and the movie scene. I know next to nothing about show business, but I enjoyed how the author portrayed it.
What this book doesn't have a lot of is heat. No sex on page here, folks, so if you like hot stories, you are barking up the wrong tree. However, the book is so strong plot-wise that I was okay with the lack on sex content.
I really liked this story, and even though I didn't love it, I think it deserves to be recognized for its thoughtfulness, interesting cover (which doesn't quite fit with the story), and moving story-line.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
The blurb is perhaps purposefully vague about who the love interest of the story is, and though I don't consider it to be a major spoiler, I'll be vague too. I also think the blurb is both a little misleading and too revealing. The story is less about small actions and is more about the big picture. I was expecting some knee-jerk story about how Hollywood abandoned one of their biggest stars, but the actual plot was much more subtle. I found it to be really fascinating and very grounded in reality.
I think the strengths of this story are in the character development and the slow, thoughtful plot. There isn't a lot of flash in this story, but there is a ton of emotion. Joe makes a lot of mistakes, and some readers might be a bit put off by his slow uptake. I, however, really enjoyed that aspect of Joe, his flawed nature.
The author also seemed like she had a very good grasp on the ins and outs of Hollywood and the movie scene. I know next to nothing about show business, but I enjoyed how the author portrayed it.
What this book doesn't have a lot of is heat. No sex on page here, folks, so if you like hot stories, you are barking up the wrong tree. However, the book is so strong plot-wise that I was okay with the lack on sex content.
I really liked this story, and even though I didn't love it, I think it deserves to be recognized for its thoughtfulness, interesting cover (which doesn't quite fit with the story), and moving story-line.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
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June 17, 2015I'm not rating this at all. Thank goodness it's over.
April 16, 2015
“In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer.And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger – something better, pushing right back.” (Albert Camus)
New autobuy-writer. The most beautiful title in gay romance aside (it´s from a quote by Camus), this is a non-clichéd and fascinating story about a gay action star coming out. It's not only about romance, but about a man's journey of self-discovery. But the love story is great, too: slow-burn and with sweet and silly everyday-stuff.
Definitely recommended, even if it is pretty long.
New autobuy-writer. The most beautiful title in gay romance aside (it´s from a quote by Camus), this is a non-clichéd and fascinating story about a gay action star coming out. It's not only about romance, but about a man's journey of self-discovery. But the love story is great, too: slow-burn and with sweet and silly everyday-stuff.
Definitely recommended, even if it is pretty long.
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October 30, 2014Things I've put on Tumblr as I count down to release day.
March 31, 2019
I’ve read this author before.this is a mm contemporary story set in the movie industry with Joe as a stunt movie star and Derek as his assistant. A real page turner, I had to finished if in one day. Will read more from this author.
March 8, 2017
synopsis:
joe is gay, but he is deeply in the closet because he is an action star. his assistant/best friend, derek, sets up one night stands for him with very detailed non-disclosure agreements and that's as far as anything goes. then joe hurts himself while filming his latest action movie, and while he is in recovery, his agent encourages him to take another job on an indie film. unfortunately for joe, before he realizes that it's about a gay couple, he says yes, and then doesn't feel as though he can turn around and say no. his co-star is out and proud and happily married. once joe sees that, his homophobia comes to the forefront. it doesn't take long, though, for joe to realize that he wants what his co-star has, so he comes out to a very select group of people, including his family, who, with the exception of his father, support him. once joe is off the indie set, he falls into a relationship with the make--up artist on his now resumed action film, but doesn't feel as though he can come out for him. in the meantime, derek has quit, telling joe that he feels too much for him to stay around him. joe realizes that he feels a lot for derek, and works some magic to get him back, but he's still not coming out. then circumstances change, and joe has to decide if he wants to lose everything that he's worked for for 20 years or be true to himself.
what i liked: every once in a while, i come across a book that i just...fall for, for lack of a better term. while i'm reading, and when i'm done, it's like i can't focus on anything else; everything that i read for about 15 days afterward is muted because i'm still lost in the world and writing and characters and i don't want to let anything go. that happened when i read this book. the characters, the story; they all came alive for me. joe was flawed, as was derek, but they were so perfect for each other. the secondary characters were also so well drawn and human. i liked derek and joe together, and their friendship and relationship. i liked that they didn't change once they got together, that they were still the same characters that they had been for 20 years. just a warning:
what i didn't like: not a thing.
joe is gay, but he is deeply in the closet because he is an action star. his assistant/best friend, derek, sets up one night stands for him with very detailed non-disclosure agreements and that's as far as anything goes. then joe hurts himself while filming his latest action movie, and while he is in recovery, his agent encourages him to take another job on an indie film. unfortunately for joe, before he realizes that it's about a gay couple, he says yes, and then doesn't feel as though he can turn around and say no. his co-star is out and proud and happily married. once joe sees that, his homophobia comes to the forefront. it doesn't take long, though, for joe to realize that he wants what his co-star has, so he comes out to a very select group of people, including his family, who, with the exception of his father, support him. once joe is off the indie set, he falls into a relationship with the make--up artist on his now resumed action film, but doesn't feel as though he can come out for him. in the meantime, derek has quit, telling joe that he feels too much for him to stay around him. joe realizes that he feels a lot for derek, and works some magic to get him back, but he's still not coming out. then circumstances change, and joe has to decide if he wants to lose everything that he's worked for for 20 years or be true to himself.
what i liked: every once in a while, i come across a book that i just...fall for, for lack of a better term. while i'm reading, and when i'm done, it's like i can't focus on anything else; everything that i read for about 15 days afterward is muted because i'm still lost in the world and writing and characters and i don't want to let anything go. that happened when i read this book. the characters, the story; they all came alive for me. joe was flawed, as was derek, but they were so perfect for each other. the secondary characters were also so well drawn and human. i liked derek and joe together, and their friendship and relationship. i liked that they didn't change once they got together, that they were still the same characters that they had been for 20 years. just a warning:
what i didn't like: not a thing.
November 6, 2014
I’ve never read Ryan Loveless before this but always heard good things about this author, so I decided to give this newest release a shot. The first thing I noticed is that Loveless has a very strong voice. I found the writing to be very eloquent and free-flowing, which is always a massive bonus when reading first person POV.
Joe Nestra is a closeted Hollywood actor who is staring in his first indie Canadian film. The catch is that his character is gay and he is nervous that word might get out his sexuality. His assistant and best friend, Derek helps him through it, providing Joe with men behind closed doors while he films.
What’s interesting about this book is that while I thought the whole book would be about Joe coming to terms with the fact that his fans and family will know about his sexuality, it isn’t. It’s more than that. Loveless doesn’t put the focus on that alone, tons of emotions are involved and while the blurb keeps who Joe ends up with a secret, it is clear early on who is the most important person in his life is.
The romance isn’t the main feature of this book. Yes, it’s there and it’s well done. But Loveless also explores many other themes that I think are just as important for this book. I would say that the most prominent thing about this book is the emotions involved. Reading from Joe’s POV definitely makes you feel his conflict. At first, I wasn’t sure how I liked Joe. He seemed too scared about what others thought of him and in order to protect that vulnerability, he lashes out to his co-star, Hunter. But eventually, Joe levels out and I ended up enjoying his story.
I will be definitely looking more into Loveless’ books. If IN ME AN INVINCIBLE SUMMER is any indication of the level of writing one can expect from this author, then you can be sure I’ll be reading more.
*ARC provided by publisher
July 19, 2016
This is my first Ryan Loveless book but definitely not my last. The author writes a well-rounded story that portrays men in a true to life fashion. The focus of the story is the emotional growth and development of the characters. She doesn't back away from controversial subjects and realities. The story contains very little sex as it focuses on the relationships, emotions and personal growth of the characters. It is unfortunate but true that this story portrays a realism that most people would like to think we are beyond as a culture. if you are looking for a book with emotional depth and characters that you can love, even when they aren't the most lovable people according to others, this is the book for you. The book is divided into three parts: the first is when Joe is only out to one person, the second when he is still mostly closeted and ruled by fear but trying to have a relationship until he outs himself the final section is the aftermath. The story shows that people can lose family because of coming out. Any age, fame or wealth level are no guarantee that those who should love you will and that you won't face discrimination based on your sexuality. I loved this book and can't wait to read more.
November 11, 2014
This is a really well written story that builds slowly, with emotions, and in detail. We spend about a year with Joe and I loved how well I got to know him, his family and friends.
I felt completely immersed in his world, an unfamiliar one, filled with the superficiality of celebrity, but also the strength of family and the support of best friends.
We get to visit a lot of different places too while we travel with Joe: Canada, Minnesota, LA and New York. Each place feels different, adding to the authentic nature of the story.
Joe is flawed but basically trying to get more honest with himself, and trying to deal with the consequences of wanting to live a more true life. There's snark, smex and drama. I really did love it a lot.
I felt completely immersed in his world, an unfamiliar one, filled with the superficiality of celebrity, but also the strength of family and the support of best friends.
We get to visit a lot of different places too while we travel with Joe: Canada, Minnesota, LA and New York. Each place feels different, adding to the authentic nature of the story.
Joe is flawed but basically trying to get more honest with himself, and trying to deal with the consequences of wanting to live a more true life. There's snark, smex and drama. I really did love it a lot.
December 10, 2018
Remaking your life
This is a story about choices and acceptance. Took a few pages to get sucked into the story. Once the kids were added to the mix I got my feels on. I think it captured the essence of Hollywood “friends” - best of buds, as long as there is something in it for me. 3.5 for stone dogs.
This is a story about choices and acceptance. Took a few pages to get sucked into the story. Once the kids were added to the mix I got my feels on. I think it captured the essence of Hollywood “friends” - best of buds, as long as there is something in it for me. 3.5 for stone dogs.
February 6, 2015
4.75 to 5 stars
February 15, 2015
Review can be read at It's About The Book
In Me an Invincible Summer is a difficult book to review without giving away who the love interest is. Since it’s not apparent from the start and isn’t in the book’s blurb, I’m not sure I want to name him in this review.
Joe Nestra is an action movie star in his mid-forties and in the closet. His best friend and PA, Derek, is the only one who knows Joe’s secret. Well, Derek and the hundreds of male escorts Derek has procured for Joe with an iron-clad privacy contract over the last couple of decades. When an on set knee injury means Joe has a couple of months recovery time before he can complete his latest action blockbuster, Joe’s agent urges him to take a lead part in a little indie film being shot in Canada. With nothing else to do, Joe agrees. When he arrives on location, Derek as his PA in tow, Joe discovers just what role he has signed on for; a gay man dying from AIDS. Not exactly the ideal role for a closeted actor. But Joe is a professional and he allows himself to be persuaded that switching to a drama that showcases his quite considerable acting talent can only enhance his career. However, things don’t go smoothly on the set of Hard Soul. His co-star, while extremely talented, is a complete arse and makes no bones of his disdain for Joe. It doesn’t help that when it comes to shooting the first scene of the main characters kissing, Joe completely wigs out from the fear that he’ll be discovered for the gay man he is when the film is released, leaving everyone with the impression that he is a homophobe who has a problem with two men kissing. Not exactly endearing himself further to his co-star, Hunter Starling, an out gay man and married to boot.
Joe grew up in small town USA with his father and younger brother an sister, having lost his mother when he was fourteen. Joe’s father was a hard man and frequently beat on the adolescent Joe, often without even a pretence of a reason. One thing was made very apparent; no son of Merwin’s was going to be a faggot. It’s was no wonder that Joe married his best friend, Abby, at nineteen in an effort to be good (straight) and so they could both get away from their hometown to the bright lights of LA. They managed to stay together for fifteen years, but ultimately Joe couldn’t continue with the lie, even though he remained in the closet, even to Abby, due to his now successful acting career.
In an effort to get Hunter and Joe to become less adversarial towards each other, Hunter’s husband, Chris, in conspiracy with Derek, invites Joe and Derek to dinner at their home. The evening only highlights how lonely Joe has become and how much he wished he could have the kind of loving relationship Hunter and Chris have. Something he knows is impossible for him if he wants to retain his status in the entertainment industry. His growing realisation, loneliness and too much alcohol leads Joe to make an impulsive call to his father declaring his homosexuality. His father promptly and categorically disowns him. Feeling like he’s made the biggest mistake of his life and destroyed any connection to his family, Joe drunkenly blames Hunter and Chris for his woes – if they weren’t so damnably happy, Joe wouldn’t have realised how unhappy he was – and sets off to tell them so. And end up in a ditch. Not that he’ll let that stop him from giving Hunter a piece of his mind. Strangely enough, punching Hunter ends up bringing them closer together as Joe is forced to expose his secret to Hunter and Chris.
And that’s all I can say about the plot, not only because a lot happens in Joe’s story, but because I don’t want to give the romantic element away. Also, this is a review, not a plot summary and I’ve already written quite enough about it! In Me an Invincible Summer is sweet, funny, powerful, heartbreaking, uplifting and, above all, real. With top-notch writing, well-rounded and fully developed characters, Joe’s story is superbly and believably told and I loved every moment of it. I loved Joe, flaws and all – because he wasn’t all perfect, even though he was a good guy. Derek I adored. There was just something about him that I felt drawn to. Maybe it was his snark. Or the way he was always there for his best friend. Their relationship, and the way it developed, felt completely natural. Despite Joe being the buff action movie star and Derek being his PA and, well, not buff, their relationship was equal. I felt torn by Nathan, whom Joe meets on the set of his action movie where Nathan works as a make-up artist. I liked him, he was good for Joe in a lot of ways, but I wasn’t sure if I wanted them to be together, or if I could be brought around to wanting that. I liked that Abby wasn’t stereotyped as the evil ex-wife or the one that turned into her gay ex-husband’s closest, bestest friend. They were on good terms, but it had taken them awhile to get there.
I really do love that the author made sure the characters were real and believable as we follow Joe’s journey of self-discovery. They aren’t perfect, they do make mistakes and sometimes they choose the wrong path. Joe and his love interest (you’ll just have to get the book if you want to find out who that is!), especially, are very well drawn. Flawed, beautiful, complex. Watching them dance around each other before they finally got together, was both frustrating and heartbreaking. They had to work for their HEA. I loved their banter, their interactions. I also loved the little, affectionate gestures that crept into their relationship as additions to how they behaved together once they started dating, just like I loved that they didn’t suddenly change and get all mushy just because they had become lovers. They remained true to their characters. I would have perhaps liked to have seen more of their intimacy, but it was a small niggle really, and there was so much to this book that was perfectly done. I will happily highly recommend In Me an Invincible Summer to anyone and everyone who wants to read a well-crated story with wonderfully realistic characters. I could not put it down.
In Me an Invincible Summer is a difficult book to review without giving away who the love interest is. Since it’s not apparent from the start and isn’t in the book’s blurb, I’m not sure I want to name him in this review.
Joe Nestra is an action movie star in his mid-forties and in the closet. His best friend and PA, Derek, is the only one who knows Joe’s secret. Well, Derek and the hundreds of male escorts Derek has procured for Joe with an iron-clad privacy contract over the last couple of decades. When an on set knee injury means Joe has a couple of months recovery time before he can complete his latest action blockbuster, Joe’s agent urges him to take a lead part in a little indie film being shot in Canada. With nothing else to do, Joe agrees. When he arrives on location, Derek as his PA in tow, Joe discovers just what role he has signed on for; a gay man dying from AIDS. Not exactly the ideal role for a closeted actor. But Joe is a professional and he allows himself to be persuaded that switching to a drama that showcases his quite considerable acting talent can only enhance his career. However, things don’t go smoothly on the set of Hard Soul. His co-star, while extremely talented, is a complete arse and makes no bones of his disdain for Joe. It doesn’t help that when it comes to shooting the first scene of the main characters kissing, Joe completely wigs out from the fear that he’ll be discovered for the gay man he is when the film is released, leaving everyone with the impression that he is a homophobe who has a problem with two men kissing. Not exactly endearing himself further to his co-star, Hunter Starling, an out gay man and married to boot.
Joe grew up in small town USA with his father and younger brother an sister, having lost his mother when he was fourteen. Joe’s father was a hard man and frequently beat on the adolescent Joe, often without even a pretence of a reason. One thing was made very apparent; no son of Merwin’s was going to be a faggot. It’s was no wonder that Joe married his best friend, Abby, at nineteen in an effort to be good (straight) and so they could both get away from their hometown to the bright lights of LA. They managed to stay together for fifteen years, but ultimately Joe couldn’t continue with the lie, even though he remained in the closet, even to Abby, due to his now successful acting career.
In an effort to get Hunter and Joe to become less adversarial towards each other, Hunter’s husband, Chris, in conspiracy with Derek, invites Joe and Derek to dinner at their home. The evening only highlights how lonely Joe has become and how much he wished he could have the kind of loving relationship Hunter and Chris have. Something he knows is impossible for him if he wants to retain his status in the entertainment industry. His growing realisation, loneliness and too much alcohol leads Joe to make an impulsive call to his father declaring his homosexuality. His father promptly and categorically disowns him. Feeling like he’s made the biggest mistake of his life and destroyed any connection to his family, Joe drunkenly blames Hunter and Chris for his woes – if they weren’t so damnably happy, Joe wouldn’t have realised how unhappy he was – and sets off to tell them so. And end up in a ditch. Not that he’ll let that stop him from giving Hunter a piece of his mind. Strangely enough, punching Hunter ends up bringing them closer together as Joe is forced to expose his secret to Hunter and Chris.
And that’s all I can say about the plot, not only because a lot happens in Joe’s story, but because I don’t want to give the romantic element away. Also, this is a review, not a plot summary and I’ve already written quite enough about it! In Me an Invincible Summer is sweet, funny, powerful, heartbreaking, uplifting and, above all, real. With top-notch writing, well-rounded and fully developed characters, Joe’s story is superbly and believably told and I loved every moment of it. I loved Joe, flaws and all – because he wasn’t all perfect, even though he was a good guy. Derek I adored. There was just something about him that I felt drawn to. Maybe it was his snark. Or the way he was always there for his best friend. Their relationship, and the way it developed, felt completely natural. Despite Joe being the buff action movie star and Derek being his PA and, well, not buff, their relationship was equal. I felt torn by Nathan, whom Joe meets on the set of his action movie where Nathan works as a make-up artist. I liked him, he was good for Joe in a lot of ways, but I wasn’t sure if I wanted them to be together, or if I could be brought around to wanting that. I liked that Abby wasn’t stereotyped as the evil ex-wife or the one that turned into her gay ex-husband’s closest, bestest friend. They were on good terms, but it had taken them awhile to get there.
I really do love that the author made sure the characters were real and believable as we follow Joe’s journey of self-discovery. They aren’t perfect, they do make mistakes and sometimes they choose the wrong path. Joe and his love interest (you’ll just have to get the book if you want to find out who that is!), especially, are very well drawn. Flawed, beautiful, complex. Watching them dance around each other before they finally got together, was both frustrating and heartbreaking. They had to work for their HEA. I loved their banter, their interactions. I also loved the little, affectionate gestures that crept into their relationship as additions to how they behaved together once they started dating, just like I loved that they didn’t suddenly change and get all mushy just because they had become lovers. They remained true to their characters. I would have perhaps liked to have seen more of their intimacy, but it was a small niggle really, and there was so much to this book that was perfectly done. I will happily highly recommend In Me an Invincible Summer to anyone and everyone who wants to read a well-crated story with wonderfully realistic characters. I could not put it down.
April 16, 2019
You know how sometimes you have a book on your shelf for months or even years and you just can't bring yourself to read it. Reviews from friends are raving but you are undecided. Then suddenly the time is right and you ask yourself, why did I wait so long?
But probably there is a reason, and who knows if you would have enjoyed it that much at another time.
This absolutely happened for me here.
I don't recall, when I put this on my reader, and I started reading it in February, but only now was the right time and I absolutely loved and adored this.
I was not just hooked but glued to this book and I read it was into the night, because I just couldn't put it down.
Joe is a huge movie star and deep in the closet.
When he agrees to play in a 90's Aids drama, he has a lot of problems, because to the outside world his denial looks a lot like homophobia.
You will probably guess quickly, who his love interested is going to be, but it is only revealed long into the story, so I won't write about it here either.
What other reviewers mentioned already, is, that there is almost no sex in the story, and I didn't miss it at all.
This was interesting, fun, sentimental, sweet, heartbreaking and it had everything I wish for in a good book.
Easily 4.5 stars and recommended.
But probably there is a reason, and who knows if you would have enjoyed it that much at another time.
This absolutely happened for me here.
I don't recall, when I put this on my reader, and I started reading it in February, but only now was the right time and I absolutely loved and adored this.
I was not just hooked but glued to this book and I read it was into the night, because I just couldn't put it down.
Joe is a huge movie star and deep in the closet.
When he agrees to play in a 90's Aids drama, he has a lot of problems, because to the outside world his denial looks a lot like homophobia.
You will probably guess quickly, who his love interested is going to be, but it is only revealed long into the story, so I won't write about it here either.
What other reviewers mentioned already, is, that there is almost no sex in the story, and I didn't miss it at all.
This was interesting, fun, sentimental, sweet, heartbreaking and it had everything I wish for in a good book.
Easily 4.5 stars and recommended.
July 21, 2019
Joe is essentially a Tom Cruise level famous action star who is secretly gay before marriage equality, and lives in fear of discovery. This book explores in great detail the trials of coming out, the joys of the chosen family concept, and the painful internal struggles of someone living with trauma.
That trauma comes out in a scene with costar Hunter and dramatically with his dad. It reads powerfully if not believable enough for me. I struggled to buy in completely. It did challenge me to think beyond the money he has to empathize with Joe’s desire to be wanted for roles and to have meaningful work. There were some great moments and I liked the journey of self discovery if not how long it took. Ultimately I didn’t connect with the characters like I hoped. I loved this author’s Ethan book.
That trauma comes out in a scene with costar Hunter and dramatically with his dad. It reads powerfully if not believable enough for me. I struggled to buy in completely. It did challenge me to think beyond the money he has to empathize with Joe’s desire to be wanted for roles and to have meaningful work. There were some great moments and I liked the journey of self discovery if not how long it took. Ultimately I didn’t connect with the characters like I hoped. I loved this author’s Ethan book.
February 20, 2021
3.75 stars
November 2, 2014
I purchased this book on an impulse the day it was released. After having read the blurb I expected a rather stereotypical set-up: closeted gay actor meets openly gay actor and they fall in love. Then I skimmed the preview and realized, hmm maybe not, maybe this is something else entirely. And that was when I clicked "add to chart" and proceeded to checkout.
This is an emotional read with real life characters and a focus not primarily on the romance aspect but rather the growth and journey of a very much grown man throughout a single year of his life. It has been some times since I was this moved by a book and by its characters, but it was a wonderful experience.
Joe Nestra is the main character and the book's only POV. When the story starts he is not that much of a likable character. He is definitely not your typical bigger than life romance hero, and oh, am I ever happy for that. Joe Nestra despite his profession - successful action hero movie star - has a real life feel to him, and that feeling is contained throughout the novel. I love my characters as much like real people as possible. Not only is Joe in his mid-forties - and the story contains reminders of this fact at occasions, not the least memorable in one of the love scenes towards the end (one has to love characters that sense the impact of age and act accordingly) - he's having trouble with a knee injury due to his job and is a victim of his own oblivion and immaturity at times; all very human traits.
This real life feeling extends to the supporting cast as well, Derek, Joe's assistant, perhaps being the most memorable of these; he out-trumps Joe in the negative traits department, but he is one intriguing character and makes me want to keep reading to find out what it is he is hiding behind that gruff people unfriendly facade. In fact a lot of character we get to meet are not what one first might think they are. Hunter Starling for example. I didn't like him at first, and I didn't like it when Joe changed his mind about him, but then Ryan Loveless made me change my mind too. There are so many supporting characters and an even bigger ensemble of extras. At times I had difficulty remembering who they all were, but in the end it worked out anyway.
In me an invincible summer is not a fast moving novel. At first I felt a little at loss when it wasn't the regular romance. Who was meant for Joe? When would the romance start? What was the end goal of it all? But despite the lack of direction at start or perhaps because of it I couldn't stop reading, and along the way I had a beautiful reading experience. The language is swift and smooth flowing; no unnecessary information is given and the structure of the novel is a classic three act structure with each part getting started with a quote. The last quote is what has also given the novel its name:In Me An Invincible Summer, it takes Joe forty-four years until he allows himself to be who he really is, but it doesn't matter because never mind our age we are never to old to love or to live our lives the way they are intended for us.
This is an emotional read with real life characters and a focus not primarily on the romance aspect but rather the growth and journey of a very much grown man throughout a single year of his life. It has been some times since I was this moved by a book and by its characters, but it was a wonderful experience.
Joe Nestra is the main character and the book's only POV. When the story starts he is not that much of a likable character. He is definitely not your typical bigger than life romance hero, and oh, am I ever happy for that. Joe Nestra despite his profession - successful action hero movie star - has a real life feel to him, and that feeling is contained throughout the novel. I love my characters as much like real people as possible. Not only is Joe in his mid-forties - and the story contains reminders of this fact at occasions, not the least memorable in one of the love scenes towards the end (one has to love characters that sense the impact of age and act accordingly) - he's having trouble with a knee injury due to his job and is a victim of his own oblivion and immaturity at times; all very human traits.
This real life feeling extends to the supporting cast as well, Derek, Joe's assistant, perhaps being the most memorable of these; he out-trumps Joe in the negative traits department, but he is one intriguing character and makes me want to keep reading to find out what it is he is hiding behind that gruff people unfriendly facade. In fact a lot of character we get to meet are not what one first might think they are. Hunter Starling for example. I didn't like him at first, and I didn't like it when Joe changed his mind about him, but then Ryan Loveless made me change my mind too. There are so many supporting characters and an even bigger ensemble of extras. At times I had difficulty remembering who they all were, but in the end it worked out anyway.
In me an invincible summer is not a fast moving novel. At first I felt a little at loss when it wasn't the regular romance. Who was meant for Joe? When would the romance start? What was the end goal of it all? But despite the lack of direction at start or perhaps because of it I couldn't stop reading, and along the way I had a beautiful reading experience. The language is swift and smooth flowing; no unnecessary information is given and the structure of the novel is a classic three act structure with each part getting started with a quote. The last quote is what has also given the novel its name:In Me An Invincible Summer, it takes Joe forty-four years until he allows himself to be who he really is, but it doesn't matter because never mind our age we are never to old to love or to live our lives the way they are intended for us.
December 1, 2016
I purchased this book because of its beautiful title (from Camus) and cover.
And because the MC was a mature man. I'm feeling tired about reading books in which the MCs are never more than 30.
But this book didn't work for me.
It was boring, and plainly written. I was so glad it was over.
Zero chemistry between the two MCs. A very big Zero.
Joe's realization that he is in love with Derek is so out of the blue, that I reread the first part of the book, because I thought that I missed something.
But no, I didn't miss anything. Duh.
I didn't give it only 1 star just because the author spared me the fairy tale, with Joe making it big in Hollywood.
I hate fairy tales, so thank you Ms Loveless for that.
And because the MC was a mature man. I'm feeling tired about reading books in which the MCs are never more than 30.
But this book didn't work for me.
It was boring, and plainly written. I was so glad it was over.
Zero chemistry between the two MCs. A very big Zero.
Joe's realization that he is in love with Derek is so out of the blue, that I reread the first part of the book, because I thought that I missed something.
But no, I didn't miss anything. Duh.
I didn't give it only 1 star just because the author spared me the fairy tale, with Joe making it big in Hollywood.
I hate fairy tales, so thank you Ms Loveless for that.
December 11, 2014
I was really happy to finally read this book. I wasn't disappointed at all. In Me An Invincible Summer is a wonderful journey, full of great characters. I usually love insta-love/lust/sex. In this case I think the slow burn was perfect. I loved how Joe decided to coming out, how he finally understood what he was missing. One scene was really hard to read, cause family must love you unconditionally. What I liked the most is that I felt this book so real, from the difficult start till the emotional ending. Highly recommended!
November 20, 2014
I loved this book. Ryan has a way of making her characters so believable. They all have realistic flaws and realistic relationships. This was a fabulous portrayal of a man coming to terms with his own sexuality. It's not all hearts and flowers and he has to work to get there, but the journey is worth it.
I really liked Joe, but I loved his PA Derek. He had some of the snarkiest and wittiest lines in the book. Quite a few times I laughed out loud!
Well worth reading.
I really liked Joe, but I loved his PA Derek. He had some of the snarkiest and wittiest lines in the book. Quite a few times I laughed out loud!
Well worth reading.
June 14, 2015
5 'slowbuilding, beautiful, realistic, well written, loved it' stars.
I love a book that surprises me, I wasn't 100% sure what this was about and I loved it. Well written, awesome characters but what made it for me was the story in this one, just the realistic view of what is faced when coming out. It is often heartbreakking and other times beautiful to see the way family love unconditionally.
I love a book that surprises me, I wasn't 100% sure what this was about and I loved it. Well written, awesome characters but what made it for me was the story in this one, just the realistic view of what is faced when coming out. It is often heartbreakking and other times beautiful to see the way family love unconditionally.
January 19, 2015
This felt like an authentic insider scoop on the Hollywood juggernaut and an insightful character study on someone who got trapped in its clutches. The tone and pacing of Joe's self-revelation were on point and I loved how the reader was kept guessing on the identity of his love interest because it held true that he would have lied to himself even in his own thoughts. I thought this was a brilliant read.
November 4, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Not your typical romance and not at all formulaic, I found myself drawn into Joe's world and entirely in sympathy with him.
In fact, I liked it so much that I went straight back and re-read it.
In fact, I liked it so much that I went straight back and re-read it.
May 23, 2015
Yeah, so that was just REALLY DAMN GOOD AND THOROUGH. LOVE.
Probably one of the most realistic stories I've read. No unnecessary drama or "only ever happens in books" scenes.
Reaffirms the fact that we need to change the world.
Probably one of the most realistic stories I've read. No unnecessary drama or "only ever happens in books" scenes.
Reaffirms the fact that we need to change the world.
February 3, 2016
Review to come.
July 12, 2018
☆ 3.5/5 ☆
Voilà bien 2 ou 3 ans que ce livre traîne au fin fond de mon Kindle, et jusqu'à présent j'ai toujours repoussé le moment de le lire. Cette fois c'est chose faite !
C'est un drôle de roman que nous avons là ... L'histoire d'une superstar hollywoodienne habituée aux superproductions ultra testostéronées arrive à un moment de sa vie où il ne peut plus continuer à vivre en cachant son homosexualité. À 44 ans, il ne veut pas sortir du placard, mais il n'en peut plus de se cacher. Sa rencontre avec Hunter, un autre acteur célèbre avec lequel il va tourner un film, va être le catalyseur de tout ce qui se passera ensuite. Joe finit par se rendre compte qu'au plus profond de lui, il aspire à une vie domestique heureuse, et non plus à ces coups d'un soir anonymes et soumis à la signature d'un NDA.
C'est un roman lent, où l'on voit le personnage évoluer, se poser de multiples questions, faire des erreurs, se montrer grossier, insensible, avoir une attitude exécrable et parfois se comporter comme un vrai con. Au début, je n'ai eu aucune sympathie pour lui. La détestation qu'il a de lui-même, cette façon qu'il a d'agir m'a énervée, mais je n'étais pas touchée par sa détresse, qu'il cache sous ses airs de gros durs. C'est un personnage égocentrique, qui s'en tire toujours par une pirouette, qui botte en touche quand les sujets importants sont abordés. Seulement, Joe va changer, petit à petit. Il va devoir sortir de toute une vie de conditionnement, et s'autoriser à être lui-même, mais il a une pression incroyable sur les épaules, principalement en raison de son métier, mais aussi parce que son père n'est pas des plus ... compréhensifs. (Incroyable de voir qu'à plus de 40 ans, Joe sous toujours sous la coupe de son père !)
Le résumé, trop bavard et trompeur à mon goût, est tout de même assez vague concernant la personne avec qui Joe va vivre une histoire d'amour. Je n'en dirai pas beaucoup plus, si ce n'est que celle-ci m'a touchée. La romance reste assez discrète et pudique, mais cela colle avec le vécu et l'âge des personnages.
Outre l'évolution de Joe, ce roman consacre de nombreuses pages aux tournages et aux coulisses hollywoodiens, ce que j'ai trouvé vraiment intéressant. Suivre un tournage, la promo, les arrangements avec les agents, la presse ... L'auteur s'est très bien documentée pour ce livre, on a une impression de vraisemblance qui donne de l'épaisseur au livre, sans donner une impression de paillettes. Tout est factuel, sans vernis ni paillettes, comme l'ensemble du livre finalement.
Les personnages qui gravitent autour de Joe sont tous soignés, et jouent un rôle prépondérant dans sa vie. Sa famille est super, j'ai notamment beaucoup aimé ses nièces, mais aussi Stellan, un petit bonhomme qu'on voit peu, mais qui est touchant. Que dire de Hunter, Chris et Derek ? J'ai beaucoup aimé tous ces gars, j'ai aimé aussi voir la dynamique de la relation entre eux, tout au long du livre. Certains passages sont drôles, et plus on avance dans le livre, plus on se dit que Joe a faut du chemin depuis le début !
Ce roman de Ryan Loveless est somme toute assez singulier, et j'avoue avoir beaucoup aimé l'évolution de Joe, et si la fin (ouverte)me laisse un goût d'inachevé, elle est très bien ainsi. Un roman que j'ai bien aimé donc !
Voilà bien 2 ou 3 ans que ce livre traîne au fin fond de mon Kindle, et jusqu'à présent j'ai toujours repoussé le moment de le lire. Cette fois c'est chose faite !
C'est un drôle de roman que nous avons là ... L'histoire d'une superstar hollywoodienne habituée aux superproductions ultra testostéronées arrive à un moment de sa vie où il ne peut plus continuer à vivre en cachant son homosexualité. À 44 ans, il ne veut pas sortir du placard, mais il n'en peut plus de se cacher. Sa rencontre avec Hunter, un autre acteur célèbre avec lequel il va tourner un film, va être le catalyseur de tout ce qui se passera ensuite. Joe finit par se rendre compte qu'au plus profond de lui, il aspire à une vie domestique heureuse, et non plus à ces coups d'un soir anonymes et soumis à la signature d'un NDA.
C'est un roman lent, où l'on voit le personnage évoluer, se poser de multiples questions, faire des erreurs, se montrer grossier, insensible, avoir une attitude exécrable et parfois se comporter comme un vrai con. Au début, je n'ai eu aucune sympathie pour lui. La détestation qu'il a de lui-même, cette façon qu'il a d'agir m'a énervée, mais je n'étais pas touchée par sa détresse, qu'il cache sous ses airs de gros durs. C'est un personnage égocentrique, qui s'en tire toujours par une pirouette, qui botte en touche quand les sujets importants sont abordés. Seulement, Joe va changer, petit à petit. Il va devoir sortir de toute une vie de conditionnement, et s'autoriser à être lui-même, mais il a une pression incroyable sur les épaules, principalement en raison de son métier, mais aussi parce que son père n'est pas des plus ... compréhensifs. (Incroyable de voir qu'à plus de 40 ans, Joe sous toujours sous la coupe de son père !)
Le résumé, trop bavard et trompeur à mon goût, est tout de même assez vague concernant la personne avec qui Joe va vivre une histoire d'amour. Je n'en dirai pas beaucoup plus, si ce n'est que celle-ci m'a touchée. La romance reste assez discrète et pudique, mais cela colle avec le vécu et l'âge des personnages.
Outre l'évolution de Joe, ce roman consacre de nombreuses pages aux tournages et aux coulisses hollywoodiens, ce que j'ai trouvé vraiment intéressant. Suivre un tournage, la promo, les arrangements avec les agents, la presse ... L'auteur s'est très bien documentée pour ce livre, on a une impression de vraisemblance qui donne de l'épaisseur au livre, sans donner une impression de paillettes. Tout est factuel, sans vernis ni paillettes, comme l'ensemble du livre finalement.
Les personnages qui gravitent autour de Joe sont tous soignés, et jouent un rôle prépondérant dans sa vie. Sa famille est super, j'ai notamment beaucoup aimé ses nièces, mais aussi Stellan, un petit bonhomme qu'on voit peu, mais qui est touchant. Que dire de Hunter, Chris et Derek ? J'ai beaucoup aimé tous ces gars, j'ai aimé aussi voir la dynamique de la relation entre eux, tout au long du livre. Certains passages sont drôles, et plus on avance dans le livre, plus on se dit que Joe a faut du chemin depuis le début !
Ce roman de Ryan Loveless est somme toute assez singulier, et j'avoue avoir beaucoup aimé l'évolution de Joe, et si la fin (ouverte)me laisse un goût d'inachevé, elle est très bien ainsi. Un roman que j'ai bien aimé donc !
November 5, 2014
3.5 stars
I liked this story, sometimes less, sometimes more, but I didn’t love it. It does have an incredible cover and maybe my expectations were raised because of it. Or maybe I expected more because I’ve loved other book written by Ms. Loveless, but regardless, my expectations were not met. This was a story of self discovery and acceptance, it was very well written and complex, and dare I say it was sometimes intense. But still, I just couldn’t really get into it.
This is the story of Joe Nestra, a 44 year old actor, who is still closeted and has developed some internalized homophobic tendencies. Joe usually plays an action figure role in a series of movies, but while injured in a stunt, he has to lay low for a while. His agent offers him the chance to play one of the lead males in a gay movie, an AIDS stricken man, and Joe accepts it. But Joe’s homophobia threatens the whole production and his relationship with his costar, Hunter, is tense and very unfriendly. Hunter will not put up with Joe’s bullshit and they have a few altercations. Hunter’s husband, Chris, tries to calm the waters by inviting Joe and his personal assistant Derek to dinner at their house. And this is the beginning of how Joe’s carefully constructed life starts to fall apart. Once he witnesses the great and loving relationship Chris and Hunter have, he starts to yearn for the same thing.
Joe has been divorced for over a decade, and he’s never been in any relationships and hasn’t been part of the dating scene. His hookups were all arranged by Derek, young men who were carefully screened and made to sign a confidentiality agreement. Now Joe doesn’t want that anymore, and while he doesn’t consider coming out, he wants give dating a try.
I really didn’t like Joe at the beginning and while I warmed up to him towards the end, he never became a character that I liked. He was a jerk and an asshole. After getting drunk one night he called his father to confess his homosexuality and, as expected, he got disowned. I never understood why his need for parental acceptance was that great, he was a grown man in his mid forties, not a teenager in need of support. Besides, he never really had a great relationship with his father. Joe got beat a lot when he was a child and his father was never shy to let his fists fly when it came to him. So why the fuck is his acceptance so damn important? And the scene where Joe’s father came to the hotel where Joe was staying and pulled a gun on him was the most difficult for me to read and accept. Not because it’s unreal, because I believe stuff like that can happen. It’s that Joe tried distracting his father by offering to let him beat his ass with a belt. Umm, yes we are talking about a 44 year old man allowing his father to beat his ass. But I gave up trying to understand that and moved on.
I can’t say who Joe’s love interest is, because I believe the author was vague about it when writing the blurb for a reason. That person is someone from Joe’s past, the one and only one night stand he had while still married to his wife. It was quite easy to figure out who that was and the whole time I was thinking to myself Joe you’re such a clueless idiot. That being said, I didn’t feel the chemistry between them, and that’s not because there was virtually no sex on page in this book. Other than a couple of blowjobs, this book is very PG 13, so if you’re looking for a hot sexy story, this is not it. But I don’t need sex to feel there is chemistry between two characters and I’m sad to say I felt no chemistry AT ALL. Their love story isn’t exactly believable to me from Joe’s PO, because you can’t just decide you love someone out of the blue like Joe did. His love interest wasn’t referred to at all in terms of someone Joe had feeling for or thought of as a partner; it was pretty much out of the blue. But still, I appreciated the support and closeness between them; it came out strong that they had each other’s backs.
Once Joe decided to come out everything changed, and not for the better. He got dropped from every contract he signed, his latest movie tanked at the box office and the scripts stopped coming in. Nobody wanted a gay actor to play in their movies. I don’t know a lot about Hollywood or the movie industry, and the author seemed to be very knowledgeable about it all, but it’s hard for me to believe and accept that everyone would shun Joe like that because of his sexuality. A great actor is still a great actor at the end of the day, but most of all, we’re talking about the year 2011 not 1990, in LA not in bumfuck nowhere, bible belt county. I think the movie industry has seen and accepted all: druggies and alcoholics, depressed people who are struggling to survive, and so many weirdoes, my mind is spinning trying to think of it all. Not to mention how many out and proud celebrities we see and hear about every day. And I’m supposed to believe that being gay will get so many drastic, negative, life changing reactions from all the producers? Not likely, and that’s what bothered me most.
There are things that I liked a lot about this book; mostly the supporting characters. I loved Hunter and Chris most of all. Hunter is a very real person; he’s honest to the point of being rude and won’t take shit from anyone, least of all a homophobic co-star like Joe. But once Joe got to really get to know him, Hunter proved to be a supporting friend who was loyal and helpful and never hesitated to offer some important piece of advice. His relationship with Chris I absolutely adored, and the fact that he was a sarcastic shit made him even more likeable. “Thank you,” Joe said. He raised his spoon in a salute. Hunter gave his own salute in return. It used only one finger.
Chris was a doll and by far my favorite of them all. His love and support for his husband is plain to see and the fact that he wants everyone to get along endeared him to me greatly. He is funny and childish sometimes and gives this story the breath of fresh air it needs. He’s awesome at giving advice, great at being a friend and the most well rounded human being in this book. The fact that he’s made me laugh at his antics made me love him all the more…
After one more night with Hunter and Chris, they moved into another hotel to begin a proper honeymoon—a decision not at all (completely) influenced by Chris’s propensity for shouting “Are you having sex now?” at their bedroom door and thundering away giggling like a clumsy hyena. *giggling*
And Derek… well he was an amazing friend as well. He was very honest with Joe when it came to his opinion of who Joe is“Aside from being an emotionally immature moron on occasion, you generally come through”, never hesitated to tell him what he needed to hear regardless if that was the same with what Joe wanted to hear. And he never allowed anyone to take advantage of Joe or insult him in any way.
“You think you’re not, but I’ve seen it happen. The freedom of being out is going to get to you, make you want to explore yourself further, and suddenly you’re prancing around in lace panties.”
Joe opened his mouth.
“Number one,” Derek said. Joe closed his mouth. This is going to be good. “Try to be a little less offensive. Number two, there is absolutely nothing wrong with a man who enjoys wearing lace, and it doesn’t emasculate him in any way.”
Overall this was a good book, and I love that generally the characters were real and believable. They’re not perfect and they make mistakes, but they’re complex and well written. Aside from the few points that were not very believable to me, this was a great story of an adult man who faces a challenging journey of self discovery. If you like coming-out books than this is a recommended read.
I liked this story, sometimes less, sometimes more, but I didn’t love it. It does have an incredible cover and maybe my expectations were raised because of it. Or maybe I expected more because I’ve loved other book written by Ms. Loveless, but regardless, my expectations were not met. This was a story of self discovery and acceptance, it was very well written and complex, and dare I say it was sometimes intense. But still, I just couldn’t really get into it.
This is the story of Joe Nestra, a 44 year old actor, who is still closeted and has developed some internalized homophobic tendencies. Joe usually plays an action figure role in a series of movies, but while injured in a stunt, he has to lay low for a while. His agent offers him the chance to play one of the lead males in a gay movie, an AIDS stricken man, and Joe accepts it. But Joe’s homophobia threatens the whole production and his relationship with his costar, Hunter, is tense and very unfriendly. Hunter will not put up with Joe’s bullshit and they have a few altercations. Hunter’s husband, Chris, tries to calm the waters by inviting Joe and his personal assistant Derek to dinner at their house. And this is the beginning of how Joe’s carefully constructed life starts to fall apart. Once he witnesses the great and loving relationship Chris and Hunter have, he starts to yearn for the same thing.
Joe has been divorced for over a decade, and he’s never been in any relationships and hasn’t been part of the dating scene. His hookups were all arranged by Derek, young men who were carefully screened and made to sign a confidentiality agreement. Now Joe doesn’t want that anymore, and while he doesn’t consider coming out, he wants give dating a try.
I really didn’t like Joe at the beginning and while I warmed up to him towards the end, he never became a character that I liked. He was a jerk and an asshole. After getting drunk one night he called his father to confess his homosexuality and, as expected, he got disowned. I never understood why his need for parental acceptance was that great, he was a grown man in his mid forties, not a teenager in need of support. Besides, he never really had a great relationship with his father. Joe got beat a lot when he was a child and his father was never shy to let his fists fly when it came to him. So why the fuck is his acceptance so damn important? And the scene where Joe’s father came to the hotel where Joe was staying and pulled a gun on him was the most difficult for me to read and accept. Not because it’s unreal, because I believe stuff like that can happen. It’s that Joe tried distracting his father by offering to let him beat his ass with a belt. Umm, yes we are talking about a 44 year old man allowing his father to beat his ass. But I gave up trying to understand that and moved on.
I can’t say who Joe’s love interest is, because I believe the author was vague about it when writing the blurb for a reason. That person is someone from Joe’s past, the one and only one night stand he had while still married to his wife. It was quite easy to figure out who that was and the whole time I was thinking to myself Joe you’re such a clueless idiot. That being said, I didn’t feel the chemistry between them, and that’s not because there was virtually no sex on page in this book. Other than a couple of blowjobs, this book is very PG 13, so if you’re looking for a hot sexy story, this is not it. But I don’t need sex to feel there is chemistry between two characters and I’m sad to say I felt no chemistry AT ALL. Their love story isn’t exactly believable to me from Joe’s PO, because you can’t just decide you love someone out of the blue like Joe did. His love interest wasn’t referred to at all in terms of someone Joe had feeling for or thought of as a partner; it was pretty much out of the blue. But still, I appreciated the support and closeness between them; it came out strong that they had each other’s backs.
Once Joe decided to come out everything changed, and not for the better. He got dropped from every contract he signed, his latest movie tanked at the box office and the scripts stopped coming in. Nobody wanted a gay actor to play in their movies. I don’t know a lot about Hollywood or the movie industry, and the author seemed to be very knowledgeable about it all, but it’s hard for me to believe and accept that everyone would shun Joe like that because of his sexuality. A great actor is still a great actor at the end of the day, but most of all, we’re talking about the year 2011 not 1990, in LA not in bumfuck nowhere, bible belt county. I think the movie industry has seen and accepted all: druggies and alcoholics, depressed people who are struggling to survive, and so many weirdoes, my mind is spinning trying to think of it all. Not to mention how many out and proud celebrities we see and hear about every day. And I’m supposed to believe that being gay will get so many drastic, negative, life changing reactions from all the producers? Not likely, and that’s what bothered me most.
There are things that I liked a lot about this book; mostly the supporting characters. I loved Hunter and Chris most of all. Hunter is a very real person; he’s honest to the point of being rude and won’t take shit from anyone, least of all a homophobic co-star like Joe. But once Joe got to really get to know him, Hunter proved to be a supporting friend who was loyal and helpful and never hesitated to offer some important piece of advice. His relationship with Chris I absolutely adored, and the fact that he was a sarcastic shit made him even more likeable. “Thank you,” Joe said. He raised his spoon in a salute. Hunter gave his own salute in return. It used only one finger.
Chris was a doll and by far my favorite of them all. His love and support for his husband is plain to see and the fact that he wants everyone to get along endeared him to me greatly. He is funny and childish sometimes and gives this story the breath of fresh air it needs. He’s awesome at giving advice, great at being a friend and the most well rounded human being in this book. The fact that he’s made me laugh at his antics made me love him all the more…
After one more night with Hunter and Chris, they moved into another hotel to begin a proper honeymoon—a decision not at all (completely) influenced by Chris’s propensity for shouting “Are you having sex now?” at their bedroom door and thundering away giggling like a clumsy hyena. *giggling*
And Derek… well he was an amazing friend as well. He was very honest with Joe when it came to his opinion of who Joe is“Aside from being an emotionally immature moron on occasion, you generally come through”, never hesitated to tell him what he needed to hear regardless if that was the same with what Joe wanted to hear. And he never allowed anyone to take advantage of Joe or insult him in any way.
“You think you’re not, but I’ve seen it happen. The freedom of being out is going to get to you, make you want to explore yourself further, and suddenly you’re prancing around in lace panties.”
Joe opened his mouth.
“Number one,” Derek said. Joe closed his mouth. This is going to be good. “Try to be a little less offensive. Number two, there is absolutely nothing wrong with a man who enjoys wearing lace, and it doesn’t emasculate him in any way.”
Overall this was a good book, and I love that generally the characters were real and believable. They’re not perfect and they make mistakes, but they’re complex and well written. Aside from the few points that were not very believable to me, this was a great story of an adult man who faces a challenging journey of self discovery. If you like coming-out books than this is a recommended read.
February 2, 2019
This book was recommend to me by OverDrive as a gay romance and it wasn't one. I wasn't looking for a coming out story and that is most of what made me give it 3 stars. I did like it; it was interesting and well written, but it just wasn't what I was in the mood for. It had romance in it but it wan't a romance.
It was written in 2012 and perhaps the most interesting thing about the story for me was the difference less than a decade has made in our culture and our laws. Some things are probably still the same, especially for older people-action heroes still probably would have trouble if they came out and it is strange to think about. But other things have changed-getting married is fully legal and that is amazing.
This book definitely made me think.
Also the title is super weird and seems like it belongs to a different book.
It was written in 2012 and perhaps the most interesting thing about the story for me was the difference less than a decade has made in our culture and our laws. Some things are probably still the same, especially for older people-action heroes still probably would have trouble if they came out and it is strange to think about. But other things have changed-getting married is fully legal and that is amazing.
This book definitely made me think.
Also the title is super weird and seems like it belongs to a different book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2018
5 Stars
Gotta Love Hollywood
Blurb:
To an outsider's view, world-famous action star Joe Nestra lives the Hollywood dream—parties, women, and a high-profile divorce. In reality, Joe's agent directs his public life. Those women he's supposedly intimate with? Prearranged dates ending at the red carpet. With his assistant and best friend Derek Simmons' help, Joe has lived safely in the closet since his divorce, choosing to let off steam with discreet male escorts rather than risk an actual boyfriend. At forty-four, he has no plans to change. Then, taking a role in a film without flashy explosions upends that.
When Joe signs on to play an early 1990s-era AIDS-stricken gay man, his internalized homophobia threatens the production. His out costar Hunter Starling won't put up with Joe's behavior. As the animosity between Joe and Hunter grows, saving the film means Joe must face his deepest fear. Challenges pile up from all directions, from his father disowning him to the entertainment industry's backstabbing reaction. Amid the backlash, Joe ventures into his first gay romantic relationship, tries to help others worse off, and slowly learns how to live his life instead of just acting it.
Gotta Love Hollywood
Blurb:
To an outsider's view, world-famous action star Joe Nestra lives the Hollywood dream—parties, women, and a high-profile divorce. In reality, Joe's agent directs his public life. Those women he's supposedly intimate with? Prearranged dates ending at the red carpet. With his assistant and best friend Derek Simmons' help, Joe has lived safely in the closet since his divorce, choosing to let off steam with discreet male escorts rather than risk an actual boyfriend. At forty-four, he has no plans to change. Then, taking a role in a film without flashy explosions upends that.
When Joe signs on to play an early 1990s-era AIDS-stricken gay man, his internalized homophobia threatens the production. His out costar Hunter Starling won't put up with Joe's behavior. As the animosity between Joe and Hunter grows, saving the film means Joe must face his deepest fear. Challenges pile up from all directions, from his father disowning him to the entertainment industry's backstabbing reaction. Amid the backlash, Joe ventures into his first gay romantic relationship, tries to help others worse off, and slowly learns how to live his life instead of just acting it.
August 5, 2017
I'm normally not a fan of fiction about celebrities and wealthy people, but Ryan's creates likeable and relatable protagonists and delivers a suitably detailed plot and level of suspense that takes the length of the novel to resolve. She avoids letting celebrity or wealth providing distracting or ridiculous plot points and keeps the focus of the novel on the characters themselves.
June 9, 2019
4.5 - new to me author. I really liked this book. I loved the MCs. Really an unexpected joy. Would have liked a more in depth of what happens to his career. The rest was so in depth I felt that area lacked just a bit. Other than that, outstanding!
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