Joy:

by Sheldon L'Henaff

All thirty-something Blake wanted for Christmas was some headspace.... He returns to his hometown of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan to catch up with family and friends, and to mentally sort out the feelings of "holiday disconnect" that haunt him every December. What Blake doesn't expect is to run into Dylan, an old co-worker and secret flame from before he came out. With Blake anxious to pick up where they left off, what he doesn't know is Dylan is carrying a secret that will eventually help force him to confront his anxiety towards a season that he's considered a byproduct of mass consumerism compounded by his own relationship issues. Add a Madonna-channeling drag queen, an indie coffee barista turned singer/songwriter, and a best friend whose family teeters on dysfunction into the mix, it creates the perfect holiday recipe to help Blake rediscover what Christmas is really all about...

192 pages, Hardcover

First published October 29, 2014

Reviews

[Charlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joy is a rom-com by Sheldon L'henaff about Blake, a 30 something returning to his hometown while needing some time to decompress and gain perspective. He didn't expect to run into an old crush, Dylan, from before he came out. Some old feelings seem to be reignited, but Blake doesn't know the Dylan is holding a secret that will lead both of them to look at what they want from the blossoming friendship.

This is a heart-felt romance about second chances at love and romance as well as the desire and willingness to be in a relationship with complications. This isn't fully light-hearted as it deals with some more serious issues, which are written with care.

I really enjoyed Sheldon's writing and that the story is a queer love story. Even more fantastic to me, was the side characters that really helped make the story. I found myself loving Dave, grandpa, and the whole host of other characters.

If I were to say one thing, it is that the book was too short! I wanted more story, I wanted to know the after and what happened. I can't wait to check out Sheldon's other books and am proud to call him my friend. Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.

[Sean Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. my only complaint is that its over. I really liked how the topic brings about complications of getting involved in a relationship, the questions we ask ourselves and the willingness to commit to each other. would like to say more but I don't want to spoil anything. I would recommend this for anyone looking for a heartfelt story.