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The Next Call
Mark Grayson volunteers for an LGBT helpline, the same one that helped him through his teenage years. One day he takes a call from “Ricky,” a suicidal man being forced into a marriage he doesn't want. For weeks Mark talks to Ricky and provides support, but he’s frustrated by the lack of information Ricky provides and the decisions he’s making. In the meantime, Mark starts a relationship with another volunteer. Then tragedy strikes and Mark takes time away from the helpline, but when he comes back, Ricky is waiting. Mark realizes Ricky is stronger than before and their relationship changes, but Mark isn’t sure what their future holds if their relationship is destined to be at the end of the phone.
169 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2015
149 people want to read
About the author
Sue Brown
140 books843 followersHot guys, big hearts, Sue's world.
Sue Brown is a Londoner with a dream to live on a small island. Coffee fuels her addiction to writing romance with hot guys loving each other, and her Adorkadog snores in harmony as she creates.
Sue Brown is a Londoner with a dream to live on a small island. Coffee fuels her addiction to writing romance with hot guys loving each other, and her Adorkadog snores in harmony as she creates.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 6, 2015
Not an easy read unless you love bittersweet romance (which I do). The loss of Ian was so painful but it made Mark grow in a way nothing else could. The slight twist to the story of who Ricky really is and the connection Mark and Ricky share unknowingly was beautiful. There is a cheating in this story, which I don't usually like, but Ms Brown was able to make me love the characters anyway and almost understand their motivation to stray.
A good book, well worth picking up for Sue Brown fans as well as those who may not have read her works yet.
A good book, well worth picking up for Sue Brown fans as well as those who may not have read her works yet.
June 19, 2015
Here's the thing. I really liked the idea of the call center, but it missed the mark for me. Why? Because the MC's didn't spend any time together except for on the phone. I thought "Ricky" was rude at times, but I understood where he was coming from. The silent treatment though was NOT cool. I liked Mark's friends, but at times I really disliked Jez. I wouldn't mind a sequel to this to see where they are now.
February 8, 2015
I really liked this book but I really wish it wouldn't have ended where it did. I'm hoping for a sequel.
May 12, 2024
La sinopsis prometía pero el desarrollo es mediocre.
February 18, 2015
3.5 star review by Tara
In The Next Call we have Mark Grayson, a volunteer for a LGBT helpline, a dater of wrong men, and a computer nerd. In the beginning of the book we open up to Mark a few years earlier seeing a young man attempting to jump off a bridge. As he talks to him he gives the young man a card from the helpline and stops him from jumping off the bridge. We then jump back to the present and Mark has just broken off a bad relationship with his boyfriend Tam who in my opinion is a real prick. He has pretty much destroyed all the self worth that Mark had. One night while working the hotline he gets a phone call from a man named “Ricky”. He is struggling with his life and hates everything in it. He gives Mark what are obviously fake names in the conversation. He has a girlfriend that wants to get married and a life that is not under his control. The call ends fairly quickly and Mark just chalked it up to a one time deal. At the same time there is a footballer named Dicky Lomax, a man who seemingly has it all and one of Mark’s friends, Jamie, who also works at the helpline jokingly calls the man gay. It’s an important detail to remember.
As time goes on Ricky begins to call more and more, wanting to only speak with Mark. Mark’s friends worry that he is getting to attached to a man that won’t reveal personal details of his life, and they want him to get out and enjoy himself again. Mark finally pulls his head out of his butt and realizes another volunteer named Ian has a crush on him. They go on a date and Mark finds his second chance at love but unfortunately after only a few months together he loses that chance again. As he deals with his grief Mark takes time away from the hotline and by the time he comes back Ricky has become close with the other workers and is having discreet affairs even though he is married. As time passes yet again he gives Ricky his personal number and begins to speak to the man outside of the hotline. This starts a real friendly relationship that grows into much more as Mark fights to deal with Ricky’s lack of personal information and his possessive feelings of a man he never met.
I did enjoy the book. Of course you aren’t supposed to like Tam but it annoyed me how many times Mark let the man into his head. Definitely makes you want to punch him in the face. But Mark was a loveable character. He definitely had a knack for searching for love in all the wrong places but he was dedicated to helping out troubled souls at the hotline. When he first talked to “Ricky” you just figure it out right away who he really is even though for Mark being heartbroken and having so much life problems that he doesn’t really figure it out until the end. I did feel bad for Ricky. You could tell that he was having a hard time dealing for a long time. Although in some ways he was a user and a coward because he just kept taking what Mark offered without giving too much of himself. Marks friends, Jez, Jamie, and Sandra definitely helped the book out a bit. Jez was a hard shooter, Jamie his lover was the softie, and Sandra represented that motherly figure. Mark’s relationship with Ian was a tad weird. I understood he loved him but he never did learn much about him, and I thought he was just settling because Ian treated him a bit better than his last boyfriend did. All in all it was a well rounded read. Not a lot of sex except for hints here and there, and a couple of phone sex scenes that were alright. If you are a fan of the author you will not be disappointed.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
In The Next Call we have Mark Grayson, a volunteer for a LGBT helpline, a dater of wrong men, and a computer nerd. In the beginning of the book we open up to Mark a few years earlier seeing a young man attempting to jump off a bridge. As he talks to him he gives the young man a card from the helpline and stops him from jumping off the bridge. We then jump back to the present and Mark has just broken off a bad relationship with his boyfriend Tam who in my opinion is a real prick. He has pretty much destroyed all the self worth that Mark had. One night while working the hotline he gets a phone call from a man named “Ricky”. He is struggling with his life and hates everything in it. He gives Mark what are obviously fake names in the conversation. He has a girlfriend that wants to get married and a life that is not under his control. The call ends fairly quickly and Mark just chalked it up to a one time deal. At the same time there is a footballer named Dicky Lomax, a man who seemingly has it all and one of Mark’s friends, Jamie, who also works at the helpline jokingly calls the man gay. It’s an important detail to remember.
As time goes on Ricky begins to call more and more, wanting to only speak with Mark. Mark’s friends worry that he is getting to attached to a man that won’t reveal personal details of his life, and they want him to get out and enjoy himself again. Mark finally pulls his head out of his butt and realizes another volunteer named Ian has a crush on him. They go on a date and Mark finds his second chance at love but unfortunately after only a few months together he loses that chance again. As he deals with his grief Mark takes time away from the hotline and by the time he comes back Ricky has become close with the other workers and is having discreet affairs even though he is married. As time passes yet again he gives Ricky his personal number and begins to speak to the man outside of the hotline. This starts a real friendly relationship that grows into much more as Mark fights to deal with Ricky’s lack of personal information and his possessive feelings of a man he never met.
I did enjoy the book. Of course you aren’t supposed to like Tam but it annoyed me how many times Mark let the man into his head. Definitely makes you want to punch him in the face. But Mark was a loveable character. He definitely had a knack for searching for love in all the wrong places but he was dedicated to helping out troubled souls at the hotline. When he first talked to “Ricky” you just figure it out right away who he really is even though for Mark being heartbroken and having so much life problems that he doesn’t really figure it out until the end. I did feel bad for Ricky. You could tell that he was having a hard time dealing for a long time. Although in some ways he was a user and a coward because he just kept taking what Mark offered without giving too much of himself. Marks friends, Jez, Jamie, and Sandra definitely helped the book out a bit. Jez was a hard shooter, Jamie his lover was the softie, and Sandra represented that motherly figure. Mark’s relationship with Ian was a tad weird. I understood he loved him but he never did learn much about him, and I thought he was just settling because Ian treated him a bit better than his last boyfriend did. All in all it was a well rounded read. Not a lot of sex except for hints here and there, and a couple of phone sex scenes that were alright. If you are a fan of the author you will not be disappointed.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
February 13, 2015
There's something almost seductive about this story from the very beginning. Its desperation and despair call out to you, and you're lured in by the prospect that someone might need saving. Just whoactually needs and does the saving, however, is a surprise unto itself. Sue Brown masterfully creates tension and suspense that will absolutely have you waiting for the next call.
Mark's been through so much - love, loss and simply trying to live. Despite the fact that he seems to have a pretty decent grasp on life in general, he undergoes his own metamorphosis throughout the story. When we really get to know him, he's fresh from a nasty breakup that leaves him second guessing himself. This uncertainty opens the door for all that Sue Brown has planned, including eye opening revelations and experiences he never expected.
I'll admit when Mark takes Ricky's first call I thought it would be obvious to him that they're already connected. In hindsight, too much time has elapsed since that night on the bridge when fate threw them together, so it makes sense that he's unsuspecting. Mark's lack of awareness sets the tone for a conspiratorial relationship between reader and author; Brown keeps us in the know, almost like we share the best kept secret. As we watch the overall story of Ricky's struggle to accept his sexuality, we already know who he is and why it's significant. The fact that Mark doesn't keeps his reactions genuine, and we never suspect he likes Ricky for anything more than just the man he is. How can he? He doesn't know Ricky's secret. I often wondered if it would change things if he had... If his behavior during that crucial scene in the pub says anything, I think the answer is yes.
I'm in awe of many things in this story, but first and foremost it's how Brown builds a relationship between two people who are physically absent. Their connection is genuine, heartfelt and simply remarkable. I'll admit to being frustrated by it at times, because it's clear Mark's getting attached. He's trying to have a normal life, and his relationship with Ian demonstrates that, however he has a growing obsession with Ricky's calls. In fact, these guys live almost completely separate lives the entire book, yet still manage to form an intense emotional connection that doesn't leave you doubting its sincerity or their sanity, which may even be more remarkable. ;)
I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Brown's inclusion of one of the biggest LGBT topics in recent years: gay athletes. I've read several stories that feature closeted professional athletes struggling with acceptance and coming out, and I was delighted to find this story is more than just 'another gay athlete' story. Brown puts her own unique spin on the issue, giving a very realistic view of the conflict and conspiracy many men and women encounter while trying to secure their careers and remain true to themselves. It's not an easy place to be, and we tend to have some unrealistic expectations of our superstar players. Someone with as much potential and fame as Ricky is expected to fulfill all the expectations and stereotypes for the perfect player. It's a nice reminder to us that they're only human, and rather than mold them into who we want them to be, we need to accept them for who they are and the talents they share with the world.
This review can be found at 3 Chicks After Dark.
Mark's been through so much - love, loss and simply trying to live. Despite the fact that he seems to have a pretty decent grasp on life in general, he undergoes his own metamorphosis throughout the story. When we really get to know him, he's fresh from a nasty breakup that leaves him second guessing himself. This uncertainty opens the door for all that Sue Brown has planned, including eye opening revelations and experiences he never expected.
I'll admit when Mark takes Ricky's first call I thought it would be obvious to him that they're already connected. In hindsight, too much time has elapsed since that night on the bridge when fate threw them together, so it makes sense that he's unsuspecting. Mark's lack of awareness sets the tone for a conspiratorial relationship between reader and author; Brown keeps us in the know, almost like we share the best kept secret. As we watch the overall story of Ricky's struggle to accept his sexuality, we already know who he is and why it's significant. The fact that Mark doesn't keeps his reactions genuine, and we never suspect he likes Ricky for anything more than just the man he is. How can he? He doesn't know Ricky's secret. I often wondered if it would change things if he had... If his behavior during that crucial scene in the pub says anything, I think the answer is yes.
I'm in awe of many things in this story, but first and foremost it's how Brown builds a relationship between two people who are physically absent. Their connection is genuine, heartfelt and simply remarkable. I'll admit to being frustrated by it at times, because it's clear Mark's getting attached. He's trying to have a normal life, and his relationship with Ian demonstrates that, however he has a growing obsession with Ricky's calls. In fact, these guys live almost completely separate lives the entire book, yet still manage to form an intense emotional connection that doesn't leave you doubting its sincerity or their sanity, which may even be more remarkable. ;)
I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Brown's inclusion of one of the biggest LGBT topics in recent years: gay athletes. I've read several stories that feature closeted professional athletes struggling with acceptance and coming out, and I was delighted to find this story is more than just 'another gay athlete' story. Brown puts her own unique spin on the issue, giving a very realistic view of the conflict and conspiracy many men and women encounter while trying to secure their careers and remain true to themselves. It's not an easy place to be, and we tend to have some unrealistic expectations of our superstar players. Someone with as much potential and fame as Ricky is expected to fulfill all the expectations and stereotypes for the perfect player. It's a nice reminder to us that they're only human, and rather than mold them into who we want them to be, we need to accept them for who they are and the talents they share with the world.
This review can be found at 3 Chicks After Dark.
August 20, 2016
This was an engaging novel that held my interest throughout. For the most part, I liked the main characters and it was easy to root for them.
Readers should be forewarned that there is a potentially triggering part in the middle of the book where
The one very, very big thing that I disliked was the “bi until gay” trope. Ricky makes it clear in the prologue that he still likes girls, even though he also likes boys. I was excited to see the potential for a bisexual character. But Mark constantly pressures him, refers to him as gay, and refuses to accept any alternative. This is horrible, especially when he does it in the context of the lgbt helpline. I was very frustrated when Ricky finally gave in and said he was gay. This plays into some really awful stereotypes about bisexual people: That it’s a waystation to gay, that they don’t exist, and that bisexual men would not face the issues “real” gay men do. The novel could have been told without any of that (Ricky could still have been closeted and gotten married) or it could have been told as a bisexual story (he could simply not have been in love with the woman picked for him). I wish all of that had been left out.
On the positive side, the story was very well-written, and the pressures of being famous and closeted were handled well. I also liked the sensitivity of the part dealing with Mark’s grief and loss. It was done with nuance and compassion. Readers should be aware that this takes up a large part of the middle of the book, and the thread continues to a small degree for the rest of the story.
There was plenty of humor and lots of nicely steamy moments all through. Despite my frustration over the poor treatment of bisexuality, I otherwise really enjoyed this.
Readers should be forewarned that there is a potentially triggering part in the middle of the book where
The one very, very big thing that I disliked was the “bi until gay” trope. Ricky makes it clear in the prologue that he still likes girls, even though he also likes boys. I was excited to see the potential for a bisexual character. But Mark constantly pressures him, refers to him as gay, and refuses to accept any alternative. This is horrible, especially when he does it in the context of the lgbt helpline. I was very frustrated when Ricky finally gave in and said he was gay. This plays into some really awful stereotypes about bisexual people: That it’s a waystation to gay, that they don’t exist, and that bisexual men would not face the issues “real” gay men do. The novel could have been told without any of that (Ricky could still have been closeted and gotten married) or it could have been told as a bisexual story (he could simply not have been in love with the woman picked for him). I wish all of that had been left out.
On the positive side, the story was very well-written, and the pressures of being famous and closeted were handled well. I also liked the sensitivity of the part dealing with Mark’s grief and loss. It was done with nuance and compassion. Readers should be aware that this takes up a large part of the middle of the book, and the thread continues to a small degree for the rest of the story.
There was plenty of humor and lots of nicely steamy moments all through. Despite my frustration over the poor treatment of bisexuality, I otherwise really enjoyed this.
March 8, 2015
This was an engaging novel that held my interest throughout. For the most part, I liked the main characters and it was easy to root for them.
The one very, very big thing that I disliked was the "bi until gay" trope. Ricky makes it clear in the prologue that he still likes girls, even though he also likes boys. I was excited to see the potential for a bisexual character. But Mark constantly pressures him, refers to him as gay, and refuses to accept any alternative. This is horrible, especially when he does it in the context of the lgbt helpline. I was very frustrated when Ricky finally gave in and said he was gay. This plays into some really awful stereotypes about bisexual people: That it's a waystation to gay, that they don't exist, and that bisexual men would not face the issues "real" gay men do. The novel could have been told without any of that (Ricky could still have been closeted and gotten married) or it could have been told as a bisexual story (he could simply not have been in love with the woman picked for him). I wish all of that had been left out.
On the positive side, the story was very well-written, and the pressures of being famous and closeted were handled well. I also liked the sensitivity of the part dealing with Mark's grief and loss. It was done with nuance and compassion. Readers should be aware that this takes up a large part of the middle of the book, and the thread continues to a small degree for the rest of the story.
There was plenty of humor and lots of nicely steamy moments all through. Despite my frustration over the poor treatment of bisexuality, I otherwise really enjoyed this.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
4 stars
Amy
The one very, very big thing that I disliked was the "bi until gay" trope. Ricky makes it clear in the prologue that he still likes girls, even though he also likes boys. I was excited to see the potential for a bisexual character. But Mark constantly pressures him, refers to him as gay, and refuses to accept any alternative. This is horrible, especially when he does it in the context of the lgbt helpline. I was very frustrated when Ricky finally gave in and said he was gay. This plays into some really awful stereotypes about bisexual people: That it's a waystation to gay, that they don't exist, and that bisexual men would not face the issues "real" gay men do. The novel could have been told without any of that (Ricky could still have been closeted and gotten married) or it could have been told as a bisexual story (he could simply not have been in love with the woman picked for him). I wish all of that had been left out.
On the positive side, the story was very well-written, and the pressures of being famous and closeted were handled well. I also liked the sensitivity of the part dealing with Mark's grief and loss. It was done with nuance and compassion. Readers should be aware that this takes up a large part of the middle of the book, and the thread continues to a small degree for the rest of the story.
There was plenty of humor and lots of nicely steamy moments all through. Despite my frustration over the poor treatment of bisexuality, I otherwise really enjoyed this.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
4 stars
Amy
June 16, 2015
I have read several of Sue Brown's books, and I think that, although for me she's not a master of writing, she knows how to build a story.
My favorite among her books is "Nothing ever happens", where the writing is ordinary stuff, but the story is compelling and well developed.
Well, in this book, for me something went wrong with the plot.
It's like the author is confused about where the focus of the story is.
Is this a story about Mark's life? Ok, but there's no conflict in his life. He's a well settled person, so?
Not to mention the one thing that made me roll my eyes and that required my suspension of disbelief
My favorite among her books is "Nothing ever happens", where the writing is ordinary stuff, but the story is compelling and well developed.
Well, in this book, for me something went wrong with the plot.
It's like the author is confused about where the focus of the story is.
Is this a story about Mark's life? Ok, but there's no conflict in his life. He's a well settled person, so?
Not to mention the one thing that made me roll my eyes and that required my suspension of disbelief
February 16, 2015
This was a refreshing storyline and something completely different that it really clicked with me and I just had to devour it in one sitting.
It’s not the usual man meets man and then fall in love romance as most of the dialogue of the main characters - Mark and Ricky, takes place over a helpline so not much face to face sucking and bed hopping action is going on. However this does not detract from the intensity of feeling this book portrayed for me. Both men are singularly going through periods of change, some distraught and some fraught but both life changing none the less. The one constant throughout the book is the calls Ricky makes to the LGBT helpline and Mark. There have also been instances where they have met but both not knowing who each other are, just little episodes of fate throwing in a tease to the reader.
I found this read engaging and emotive throughout and at times I did feel the need to sniffle into a hanky. The promise of love that Mark has which is all so soon taken away and the pain and suffering Ricky is going through having his life planned out for him without his consent. One man planning out a life he wants and the other not having a choice. That is until the world as they know it gets rocked and shows how life has its way of turning out with the plan they both didn’t expect.
If there was anything I would have changed it would be Ricky’s real name. It just didn’t do it for me!
A fabulous quirky, emotive and unique read for me. With that ending though I definitely need a follow up please? Loved it! Five stars.
It’s not the usual man meets man and then fall in love romance as most of the dialogue of the main characters - Mark and Ricky, takes place over a helpline so not much face to face sucking and bed hopping action is going on. However this does not detract from the intensity of feeling this book portrayed for me. Both men are singularly going through periods of change, some distraught and some fraught but both life changing none the less. The one constant throughout the book is the calls Ricky makes to the LGBT helpline and Mark. There have also been instances where they have met but both not knowing who each other are, just little episodes of fate throwing in a tease to the reader.
I found this read engaging and emotive throughout and at times I did feel the need to sniffle into a hanky. The promise of love that Mark has which is all so soon taken away and the pain and suffering Ricky is going through having his life planned out for him without his consent. One man planning out a life he wants and the other not having a choice. That is until the world as they know it gets rocked and shows how life has its way of turning out with the plan they both didn’t expect.
If there was anything I would have changed it would be Ricky’s real name. It just didn’t do it for me!
A fabulous quirky, emotive and unique read for me. With that ending though I definitely need a follow up please? Loved it! Five stars.
February 18, 2015
Predictable But Gripping and Beautiful
I will admit I was skeptical about this one because Sue Brown is better known for her historical novels, but she grabbed me from the start and even though I had the whole plot figured out rather shortly (except for one major interlude), she pulled me in with her characters, writing style, and a plat that just kept me rapt.
The thing about this book is that Mark, the main character, has a huge flaw and that is he cannot see what is clearly there in front of his nose, or in his ear, when he begins his phone counseling relationship with "Ricky," whom everyone who has reached this point in the book will readily identify even though he remains anonymous to Mark and the rest of the cast of character until near the end. This gives enough time for Mark to fall in love with someone else, which we will not discuss because that would be a huge spoiler, while loosening up from a bad relationship.
The irony in the story line is twofold: You know what happened on page one will be tied in a nice knot on the last page, but how Mark finds out is rather unique. The ending left me sincerely hoping that this would be followed up by a sequel. Go for it, Ms. Brown!
I will admit I was skeptical about this one because Sue Brown is better known for her historical novels, but she grabbed me from the start and even though I had the whole plot figured out rather shortly (except for one major interlude), she pulled me in with her characters, writing style, and a plat that just kept me rapt.
The thing about this book is that Mark, the main character, has a huge flaw and that is he cannot see what is clearly there in front of his nose, or in his ear, when he begins his phone counseling relationship with "Ricky," whom everyone who has reached this point in the book will readily identify even though he remains anonymous to Mark and the rest of the cast of character until near the end. This gives enough time for Mark to fall in love with someone else, which we will not discuss because that would be a huge spoiler, while loosening up from a bad relationship.
The irony in the story line is twofold: You know what happened on page one will be tied in a nice knot on the last page, but how Mark finds out is rather unique. The ending left me sincerely hoping that this would be followed up by a sequel. Go for it, Ms. Brown!
February 19, 2015
This short novel has several main characters although we try to stay focused on Mark, who works at a LGBT crisis hotline part time. And Richard who we first ‘meet’ during the prologue and get reintroduced as a caller five years later, while he is having a major life crisis. Mark takes a call from a “Ricky” and over the next several months finds out that he not only is he gay but has no control over his life is about to get married. During this time Mark is having personal crisis of his own.
I liked the idea of this story, how it helped me understand how a call center would work. How someone in Richard position would end up exactly as he did. But I just didn’t feel any connection with any of the characters. The ex-boyfriend always interfering in Mark’s thoughts, not a fan inner dialog, especially when it last through two new boyfriends, at some point Mark should let him go, don’t you think? Overall a nice story.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviews
I liked the idea of this story, how it helped me understand how a call center would work. How someone in Richard position would end up exactly as he did. But I just didn’t feel any connection with any of the characters. The ex-boyfriend always interfering in Mark’s thoughts, not a fan inner dialog, especially when it last through two new boyfriends, at some point Mark should let him go, don’t you think? Overall a nice story.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviews
February 12, 2015
wow...what an emotional read! and a completely unique story. i love the idea of it being centered around an LGBT helpline. the cast of characters was really great - most of them felt like main characters instead of just supporting cast.
i had a hard time with some of the angst...i try to avoid that type of angst in stories (trying not to give spoilers here). it was pretty gut wrenching. mark was already having self esteem issues and this blow just put him in a tailspin. he is a great guy who is always looking out for everyone else. i was glad he had good friends to get him through the really rough spots.
i had a hard time believing that mark didn't put 2 & 2 together to figure out who he was talking to on the help line. it was a bit too coincidental that EVERYTHING that happened to 'ricky' also happened to 'dicky' and mark was warned about most of it.
over all a good, but emotional, read. definitely one i'd recommend.
i had a hard time with some of the angst...i try to avoid that type of angst in stories (trying not to give spoilers here). it was pretty gut wrenching. mark was already having self esteem issues and this blow just put him in a tailspin. he is a great guy who is always looking out for everyone else. i was glad he had good friends to get him through the really rough spots.
i had a hard time believing that mark didn't put 2 & 2 together to figure out who he was talking to on the help line. it was a bit too coincidental that EVERYTHING that happened to 'ricky' also happened to 'dicky' and mark was warned about most of it.
over all a good, but emotional, read. definitely one i'd recommend.
February 11, 2015
3.75 out of 5 stars
Description ~
Mark Grayson volunteers for an LGBT helpline, the same one that helped him through his teenage years. One day he takes a call from “Ricky,” a suicidal man being forced into a marriage he doesn't want. For weeks Mark talks to Ricky and provides support, but he’s frustrated by the lack of information Ricky provides and the decisions he’s making.
In the meantime, Mark starts a relationship with another volunteer. Then tragedy strikes and Mark takes time away from the helpline, but when he comes back, Ricky is waiting. Mark realizes Ricky is stronger than before and their relationship changes, but Mark isn’t sure what their future holds if their relationship is destined to be at the end of the phone.
My Review ~
To come
Description ~
Mark Grayson volunteers for an LGBT helpline, the same one that helped him through his teenage years. One day he takes a call from “Ricky,” a suicidal man being forced into a marriage he doesn't want. For weeks Mark talks to Ricky and provides support, but he’s frustrated by the lack of information Ricky provides and the decisions he’s making.
In the meantime, Mark starts a relationship with another volunteer. Then tragedy strikes and Mark takes time away from the helpline, but when he comes back, Ricky is waiting. Mark realizes Ricky is stronger than before and their relationship changes, but Mark isn’t sure what their future holds if their relationship is destined to be at the end of the phone.
My Review ~
To come
March 25, 2015
Original review on Molly Lolly
Four and a half stars!
This story is absolutely beautiful. Mark has such a kind heart. I hated his ex Tam and how he treated Mark. All of the side characters are wonderful and make the story come to life. I was able to figure out Ricky’s true identity pretty quickly, and the tragedy that happened. I was still heartbroken by the tragedy even if I expected it. I wanted to gather Mark up and hug his hurt away. I would love to read more about how Mark and Ricky build their relationship now they’ve met and got together. But if there’s never another story with these characters I’m perfectly happy with how things ended.
Four and a half stars!
This story is absolutely beautiful. Mark has such a kind heart. I hated his ex Tam and how he treated Mark. All of the side characters are wonderful and make the story come to life. I was able to figure out Ricky’s true identity pretty quickly, and the tragedy that happened. I was still heartbroken by the tragedy even if I expected it. I wanted to gather Mark up and hug his hurt away. I would love to read more about how Mark and Ricky build their relationship now they’ve met and got together. But if there’s never another story with these characters I’m perfectly happy with how things ended.
February 12, 2015
February 9th to February 10, 2015
A REFRESHING WONDERFUL STORY...
What a wonderfully written, refreshing beautiful story. This story is at its core about the relationship between Mark and Ricky. But there are so many levels and storylines going on. All the characters were magnificently written and lovable. Even through tragedy there was always hope. I thought this was a wonderful story that makes us aware that at the end of a help line there are people who care and want to make a difference. I hope this story brings that forward. I liked the way this story kept its humor, even in the dark times. I hope to one day be like Sandra!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!
A REFRESHING WONDERFUL STORY...
What a wonderfully written, refreshing beautiful story. This story is at its core about the relationship between Mark and Ricky. But there are so many levels and storylines going on. All the characters were magnificently written and lovable. Even through tragedy there was always hope. I thought this was a wonderful story that makes us aware that at the end of a help line there are people who care and want to make a difference. I hope this story brings that forward. I liked the way this story kept its humor, even in the dark times. I hope to one day be like Sandra!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!
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March 7, 2015Mark is a caring person who wants to give back by working on the help line. Ricky is a trouble young man who has much to sort through in his life. The years march on with them forming a sort of relationship but not as a couple. In the meantime Mark has the love of his life in Ian that ends much too soon. Ricky also begins to branch out to others and grows in his own ways. Time seems to help them both develop what they need to truly have a chance at their own relationship as better and stronger men as things shift from a caregiver/needy to equals.
February 3, 2015
This book was seriously emotional. I cried so hard reading it! ANGST? You bet! I really loved Mark and Ricky's back and forth via phone but Ian grabbed my heart more than any other character. It was a very hard read but Sue made every moment count. Just how we all should do in life. My only wish was that the ending wasn't AS rushed. I would have loved to have seen more and know more of how the turnout was. Either way, Sue wrote a poetic and beautiful story that I will never forget.
February 4, 2015
Good story
Nice story. Mark and Richard meet years earlier for a brief moment, when Richard is in crisis. Cut to years later and Mark gets a call from Ricky on the helpline he volunteers for. This begins the relationship for these two. Each going through angst and trauma on their own, they ultimately find their way to one another. Loved this one!
Nice story. Mark and Richard meet years earlier for a brief moment, when Richard is in crisis. Cut to years later and Mark gets a call from Ricky on the helpline he volunteers for. This begins the relationship for these two. Each going through angst and trauma on their own, they ultimately find their way to one another. Loved this one!
May 6, 2015
Mark and Ricky meet several years before on a bridge. Fast forward a few years and Mark takes a call from "Ricky" and the back a forth calls develop into a friendship that neither knows who the other is. The loss of Ian was very hard to read so grab the tissues! The MC's did not know who each other is until the last part of the book which could have been a little longer. Good book!
January 10, 2016
Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance
The Next Call by Sue Brown will either rip out your heart or drive you batty. I am not sure there is much middle ground.
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February 9, 2015
I really really liked this book BUT I need an epilogue or something...it would have been 5 stars with a much better wrap up...I'm feeling I need at least another few pages at the very least...it left me wanting and I'm thinking there isn't a sequel....UGH...
February 22, 2015
I felt flat at the end when he "got the guy" so too speak, ny that point I was emotionally rung out. I cried for most of the the book. I cared more for Ian than Ricky but not because I didn't like Ricky cause I did. It was well written though.
April 18, 2016
2.5 stars. I got invested in one couple only to get a HEA for another. Nicely written as always but I didn't love it.
March 17, 2015
I loved this. Pure Sue Brown at her best, she made me laugh, smile and cry, all in one book. Perfect.
February 5, 2015
A tougher read than many other gay romance books, but very engaging.
April 7, 2015
Very well written but best read when you're in a happy place because this book is soooo sad. It ends rather happily but it's tough going to get there.
February 9, 2015
I usually love Sue Brown stories, but I think she may be falling into a rut. Too many of the romance plots feel similar.
February 15, 2015
Is is too much to ask that the main characters get more actual face time than a couple stinking pages?
Really?
Really?
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