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Blink
Life can change in the blink of an eye. That's a truth Andy Slater learns as a young man in 1982, taking the Chicago 'L' to work every morning. Andy's life is laid out before him: a good job, marriage to his female college sweetheart, and the white picket fence existence he believes in. But when he sees Carlos Castillo for the first time, Carlos’s dark eyes and Latin appeal mesmerize him. Fate continues to throw them together until the two finally agree to meet up. At Andy’s apartment, the pent-up passion of both young men is ignited, but is snuffed out by an inopportune and poorly-timed phone call.
Flash forward to present day. Andy is alone, having married, divorced, and become the father of a gay son. He’s comfortable but alone and has never forgotten the powerful pull of Carlos’s gaze on the 'L' train. He vows to find him once more, hoping for a second chance. If life can change in the blink of an eye, what will the passage of thirty years do? To find out, Andy begins a search that might lead to heartache and disappointment or a love that will last forever….
Flash forward to present day. Andy is alone, having married, divorced, and become the father of a gay son. He’s comfortable but alone and has never forgotten the powerful pull of Carlos’s gaze on the 'L' train. He vows to find him once more, hoping for a second chance. If life can change in the blink of an eye, what will the passage of thirty years do? To find out, Andy begins a search that might lead to heartache and disappointment or a love that will last forever….
200 pages, Paperback
First published January 23, 2015
21 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
About the author
Rick R. Reed
118 books1,048 followersReal Men. True Love.
Rick R. Reed is an award-winning and bestselling author of more than sixty works of published fiction, spanning genres such as horror, psychological suspense and love stories. He is a Lambda Literary Award finalist and a multiple Rainbow Award winner.
Entertainment Weekly has described his work as “heartrending and sensitive.” Lambda Literary has called him: “A writer that doesn’t disappoint…”
Find him at www.rickrreedreality.blogspot.com. Rick lives in Palm Springs, CA, with his two rescue dogs, Kodi and Joaquin.
Rick R. Reed is an award-winning and bestselling author of more than sixty works of published fiction, spanning genres such as horror, psychological suspense and love stories. He is a Lambda Literary Award finalist and a multiple Rainbow Award winner.
Entertainment Weekly has described his work as “heartrending and sensitive.” Lambda Literary has called him: “A writer that doesn’t disappoint…”
Find him at www.rickrreedreality.blogspot.com. Rick lives in Palm Springs, CA, with his two rescue dogs, Kodi and Joaquin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
February 5, 2015
One of the many things I love about Rick’s stories is how honest they are. It’s almost as if an undercurrent of integrity vibrates from the pages. Not to say his characters are flawless, they are as perfect as you and I. But it IS their imperfections that I find so endearing. This story is no exception. You should know that this tale is…personal.
It’s not simply a fictional gay romance, it is laced with reality.
While it is told in two parts by two MC’s, it flows exceptional well. The first part takes place three decades ago and felt like flashbacks or pristine protected memories brought into the light. It should also be noted that this is more of a journey than a romance. Moments become memories and memories piece us together.
The story-
Two young men cross paths and a connection is formed within a blink of the eye. Andy is weeks away from his wedding….to a woman. It’s not a lie that he loves her, but the life he dreams about is not coinciding with life he is living. In a lust filled moment of weakness (or perhaps truth), he brings the stranger from the train back to his place. Yet, fate intervenes and a cockblocking phone call from mother dearest derails their passion before it has a chance to reach its crescendo. Andy puts his game face on and steers himself back to the future he believes is best for him. Best. Such a double-edged sword.
I found it easy to connect with Andy. He is warm, sweet-natured and vibrant. Though he may not agree, I believe he’s a quiet, thoughtful wallflower that sparkles more than he vanishes. Carlos was everything Andy wanted. I don’t think he was at the right place at the wrong time because their magnetic attraction was significant at that precise moment in Andy’s life. As painful as it was, Andy needed that disastrous hook-up to linger, to hold on to, to cherish.
Reed is not one to shy around daring subject matter such as HIV/AIDS, religion and grieving the loss of a loved one. Per usual, they are all handled straightforward but with care. I never felt as though there was…too much or too little, it was balanced.
I felt the secondary cast was strong and I’m kinda in love with Tate.
Fate’s hand touches their path once more. I for one, very much believe that everything happens for a reason. You may not find the answers for years, or decades, but they eventually materialize. While it’s important to live in the moment, it’s also essential to not forget your past. We have different seasons in our life and need to treasure every one of them…every single one. Follow your heart and fate’s footprints and you will end up exactly where you are destined to be.
Thank you for sharing your story Rick and I’m overjoyed that you found your happily-ever-after.
*4.5 no-regrets stars*
It’s not simply a fictional gay romance, it is laced with reality.
While it is told in two parts by two MC’s, it flows exceptional well. The first part takes place three decades ago and felt like flashbacks or pristine protected memories brought into the light. It should also be noted that this is more of a journey than a romance. Moments become memories and memories piece us together.
The story-
Two young men cross paths and a connection is formed within a blink of the eye. Andy is weeks away from his wedding….to a woman. It’s not a lie that he loves her, but the life he dreams about is not coinciding with life he is living. In a lust filled moment of weakness (or perhaps truth), he brings the stranger from the train back to his place. Yet, fate intervenes and a cockblocking phone call from mother dearest derails their passion before it has a chance to reach its crescendo. Andy puts his game face on and steers himself back to the future he believes is best for him. Best. Such a double-edged sword.
I found it easy to connect with Andy. He is warm, sweet-natured and vibrant. Though he may not agree, I believe he’s a quiet, thoughtful wallflower that sparkles more than he vanishes. Carlos was everything Andy wanted. I don’t think he was at the right place at the wrong time because their magnetic attraction was significant at that precise moment in Andy’s life. As painful as it was, Andy needed that disastrous hook-up to linger, to hold on to, to cherish.
Reed is not one to shy around daring subject matter such as HIV/AIDS, religion and grieving the loss of a loved one. Per usual, they are all handled straightforward but with care. I never felt as though there was…too much or too little, it was balanced.
I felt the secondary cast was strong and I’m kinda in love with Tate.
Fate’s hand touches their path once more. I for one, very much believe that everything happens for a reason. You may not find the answers for years, or decades, but they eventually materialize. While it’s important to live in the moment, it’s also essential to not forget your past. We have different seasons in our life and need to treasure every one of them…every single one. Follow your heart and fate’s footprints and you will end up exactly where you are destined to be.
Thank you for sharing your story Rick and I’m overjoyed that you found your happily-ever-after.
*4.5 no-regrets stars*
February 8, 2017
Blink
By Rick R. Reed
Dreamspinner Press, 2015
Cover by Reese Dante
Five stars
Well, this one made me cry, and not for the obvious reasons. Here’s a prime example of a book in which the love story is at the core of the narrative, but the purpose of the book is to illuminate bigger things about what it is to be a gay man.
A brief prologue section sets up the story: in 1982, twenty-two-year-old Andy Slater sees a beautiful young Hispanic man on the Chicago El – Carlos Castillo. In spite of his upcoming wedding to college sweetheart Alison, Andy makes an assignation with Carlos. That assignation is interrupted by a phone call from his mother, and their lives move on, whatever might have been between them unconsummated.
The bulk of the story is set in the present, thirty-three years later. And that’s all I’ll tell you, because you can guess the main point of the plot. But let me tell you, it’s not that simple. What I will tell you is that here is a romantic gay novel about two men in their mid-fifties. Both of them are happy, but not completely happy—for different reasons. Each of them has lived a life that included surviving the 1980s and 90s. For me, that’s enough to trigger some strong emotions, making me relive my own life over the past 30 plus years. It’s powerful to be acknowledged in this way in a novel, to have an author remind us that life is not always what we plan or we want. Whatever life throws at us, we do have some agency in how it plays out. To some degree, our happiness is ours to own.
Andy Slater and Carlos Castillo are the dual narrators. They are not alone in their voyage, and we meet people along the way who illuminate and crystalize their characters. I don’t want to reveal more, because it is a pleasure to meet everybody as they appear, and to incorporate them into our understanding of these two good men. It perhaps made it more enjoyable for me to read this book because men my age (I’m actually 61) are largely ignored in modern gay fiction. So much of this narrative echoed—even indirectly—my own voyage as a gay man in a world that has changed dramatically since 1982.
If I had one mild irritation, it was the author’s insistence on how hot and fit these two fifty-five-year-old are. This simply isn’t true for most men, gay or not. But it’s a romantic notion, and I embraced Reed’s fantasy at face value. We all remember who we were when we were young and slender and had thick heads of hair, even if nobody else does. Much of our present lives are filtered through those persistent memories, and Reed catches that beautifully.
I seem to be a fan of Rick R. Reed’s stories. Surely, he’s an author I want to support.
By Rick R. Reed
Dreamspinner Press, 2015
Cover by Reese Dante
Five stars
Well, this one made me cry, and not for the obvious reasons. Here’s a prime example of a book in which the love story is at the core of the narrative, but the purpose of the book is to illuminate bigger things about what it is to be a gay man.
A brief prologue section sets up the story: in 1982, twenty-two-year-old Andy Slater sees a beautiful young Hispanic man on the Chicago El – Carlos Castillo. In spite of his upcoming wedding to college sweetheart Alison, Andy makes an assignation with Carlos. That assignation is interrupted by a phone call from his mother, and their lives move on, whatever might have been between them unconsummated.
The bulk of the story is set in the present, thirty-three years later. And that’s all I’ll tell you, because you can guess the main point of the plot. But let me tell you, it’s not that simple. What I will tell you is that here is a romantic gay novel about two men in their mid-fifties. Both of them are happy, but not completely happy—for different reasons. Each of them has lived a life that included surviving the 1980s and 90s. For me, that’s enough to trigger some strong emotions, making me relive my own life over the past 30 plus years. It’s powerful to be acknowledged in this way in a novel, to have an author remind us that life is not always what we plan or we want. Whatever life throws at us, we do have some agency in how it plays out. To some degree, our happiness is ours to own.
Andy Slater and Carlos Castillo are the dual narrators. They are not alone in their voyage, and we meet people along the way who illuminate and crystalize their characters. I don’t want to reveal more, because it is a pleasure to meet everybody as they appear, and to incorporate them into our understanding of these two good men. It perhaps made it more enjoyable for me to read this book because men my age (I’m actually 61) are largely ignored in modern gay fiction. So much of this narrative echoed—even indirectly—my own voyage as a gay man in a world that has changed dramatically since 1982.
If I had one mild irritation, it was the author’s insistence on how hot and fit these two fifty-five-year-old are. This simply isn’t true for most men, gay or not. But it’s a romantic notion, and I embraced Reed’s fantasy at face value. We all remember who we were when we were young and slender and had thick heads of hair, even if nobody else does. Much of our present lives are filtered through those persistent memories, and Reed catches that beautifully.
I seem to be a fan of Rick R. Reed’s stories. Surely, he’s an author I want to support.
November 13, 2015
Full review can be found at -
In that instant when our eyes met, the connection was like a pulse that went straight to my heart. It lasted for only a second or maybe a bit longer, but in that short space of time, my fertile imagination pictured an entire future with this man.
But there's something about the guy on the train. He tugs at my heart as well as my loins. Even from the brief glances we exchange, he makes me think there's the possibility of more than just sex. He makes me think, for the first time in my life, that maybe I could love another man.
How many of us have looked back to another time, another place, in our lives and wondered what could have been had circumstances been different? Maybe it was a missed opportunity or maybe it's your first love. Some things you may remember fondly and others may have you living in regret for not following through on something you started. This is what happens with Andy Slater.
It's 1982 and Andy is engaged to Alison. They were college sweethearts and the next step is making their relationship official. The wedding has been planned, invitations have been mailed, and all that's left is for the couple to show up and say their vows and they can begin their lives together. That sounds like the perfect love story, right? And it would be if Andy didn't have a secret - a big secret. While Andy loves Alison deeply, he's gay. No one knows this and hell, even Andy won't admit it to himself. There's so much guilt over his feelings, his urges, that he buries them deep inside and doesn't allow those thoughts to enter his mind. If they do, he forces them away quickly.
Then he sees the stranger on the 'L' train and all those feelings he's been trying to keep hidden hit him in the face - hard. When a poorly timed phone call unfortunately - or fortunately - comes at the worst possible time, Andy is forced to make a decision that could impact him for the rest of his life.
Told in two halves, Blink begins in 1982 with the second half being the here and now. The reader is taken inside the heads of both men, as the story is told in alternating chapters with each character's point of view. Andy and Carlos aren't together on every single page and they shouldn't be. Their stories are told individually and lead to the conclusion. The author could have gone one of two ways with the ending. I'm very pleased with how everything was resolved.
Also, you have to read the Afterword. I've been reading this author's work for awhile and I'm aware that he often puts a little bit of himself and his experiences in his books. I had not read but a few chapters when I could tell this was one of those stories. Read the Afterword and you'll see what I mean.
A beautiful love story that's three decades in the making. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a beautiful love story and who doesn't mind watching the two men struggle for it along the way and not necessarily together. You'll have to read the book to see what I mean. I promise you won't be disappointed. The end result makes every single word written up to that point worth it.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 10, 2016
....Second chance at love when there wasn't even a first chance. An emotional read that I read as part of the Make #timetoread on National Readathon Day! It was in the US only, but any excuse to read right ;)
June 28, 2022
Exactly the kind of thoughtful, and emotional writing I hope for in a Rick R. Reed novel, and he delivers it beautifully in Blink. Andy's journey, as he discovers himself, and works his way through life, is poignant and very moving.
This story truly resonated with me, as it is somewhat similar to my own. And I can relate to Carlos, to whom a cell phone isn't second nature! Ah, those those simpler times...
Don't worry though, even if you're not in your mid-50's, Blink will still deliver a punch. This is such an important time in our history, and Andy and his generation are the pioneers we need to honor and remember.
I listened to Blink in audio, and I enjoyed Brian Stoddard's rich, mellow voice. Five stars for the story, and three stars for the audio performance.
an audiobook copy of Blink was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
This story truly resonated with me, as it is somewhat similar to my own. And I can relate to Carlos, to whom a cell phone isn't second nature! Ah, those those simpler times...
Don't worry though, even if you're not in your mid-50's, Blink will still deliver a punch. This is such an important time in our history, and Andy and his generation are the pioneers we need to honor and remember.
I listened to Blink in audio, and I enjoyed Brian Stoddard's rich, mellow voice. Five stars for the story, and three stars for the audio performance.
an audiobook copy of Blink was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
July 14, 2019
This book just touched my heart. It was beautifully written and is still probably my favorite Rick R. Reed book (although Big Love is a very close second). Do yourself a favor - read this book.
April 15, 2016
I literally just devoured this story in the blink of an eye. (Yes, pun intended!)
What did I love most? The author's note that it was semi-autobiographical, the time span of the story, the fact that the MCs are older, the fact that I could actually relate to references to books and music, but mostly, the fact that the ending was not a given. I honestly wasn't sure if the MCs I was rooting for would finally get together or whether they would miss out on a chance for long-term happiness due to circumstances that could change in a heartbeat.
If you thinking of reading this one. Do not hesitate! It's amazing.
What did I love most? The author's note that it was semi-autobiographical, the time span of the story, the fact that the MCs are older, the fact that I could actually relate to references to books and music, but mostly, the fact that the ending was not a given. I honestly wasn't sure if the MCs I was rooting for would finally get together or whether they would miss out on a chance for long-term happiness due to circumstances that could change in a heartbeat.
If you thinking of reading this one. Do not hesitate! It's amazing.
June 8, 2015
AMAZING BOOK!!! Made me remember two particular instances in my life that I didn't take a chance to speak with a guy that we were making eyes with each other... for me though, they weren't meant to be. All the other relationships I experienced led me to my wonderful husband!!! What I really like about this book is, it is part of Rick R. Reed's own story.... the story just felt so real and probably will for a lot of people reading it. Rick R. Reed just gets better and better - not sure how that is possible, he's a gifted storyteller.
January 27, 2015
A beautifully written story of two lives that touched thirty years ago and now. The story line is strong, and the character development was true to life as you are brought right into the story. Loved the main characters. Is there such a thing as second chances with fate playing a part? These two gorgeous men in their twenties had an amazing attraction starting on the "L" in Chicago which seemed to have ended with a mother's phone call and the obvious guilt that Andy felt, who was getting married to his college sweetheart. Carlos, a gay man, left Andy's apartment with a note from Andy explaining how he felt. From that point on, their lives went their separate ways with no regrets. Andy got married, had a son who he loved more than anything, divorced, and continued the life, the gay life, he was meant to have. Carlos had met a man who he met at the HIV clinic as he was giving Harry his HIV positive results. From that point on they were together many years, happily, until Harry died of cancer in his fifties. Andy had always thought about Carlos, in his heart and mind, even after 30 years. He finally got to the point of looking for him on the internet. By chance, Andy went to a party with his son and guess who was there, Carlos. Things in life can happen in the Blink of an Eye!! The two men were now in their mid fifties, 30 years later, and found each other again. Beautiful love story that changed their lives in a Blink of an Eye. Highly recommend this story!! A happily ever after.
July 27, 2023
Una aburrida historia narrada de forma aburrida y con dos aburridos protagonistas en la cincuentena que no paran de buscarse canas, bolsas en los ojos y kilos de más, comparándose con ellos mismos cuando tenían veintipocos cada dos por tres y acaba resultando cansino y repetitivo, porque además se queda solo en lo físico, lo que ganas con la edad y la experiencia ni lo menciona.
Acepta y disfruta la edad que tienes porque sinó lo único que consigues es amargarte y pasarlo mal, por más que compares el pasado no va a volver y cumplir años también tiene sus ventajas. Ni loca vuelvo yo a los veinte....!
Acepta y disfruta la edad que tienes porque sinó lo único que consigues es amargarte y pasarlo mal, por más que compares el pasado no va a volver y cumplir años también tiene sus ventajas. Ni loca vuelvo yo a los veinte....!
April 15, 2019
I enjoyed this book but it really didn't feel like a romance because the heroes didn't even met up again until almost the end of the book.
I love the completive tone of the book as it thinks about dating as an older man. I do like that aspect of the book and all its nuances but I want more of their love story and time together.
We end with a HFN and I think they are both worth more than that.
I love the completive tone of the book as it thinks about dating as an older man. I do like that aspect of the book and all its nuances but I want more of their love story and time together.
We end with a HFN and I think they are both worth more than that.
February 16, 2015
A second chance/slow-burn story.....full of youthful hopes, indecisions, guilt and loss.....a lot of "what-ifs".......time......time that slips ever faster as you get older.....
This is told in dual POV's and starts with Andy and Carlos's chance meeting in their youth and then continues with the "now", some 30 odd years later with fate finally chucking them in the "right time and the right place".
This was just full of emotion, I bit my lip on more than one occasion wanting and hoping for them to either to find each other or someone, they were both too young to face life being lonely....my heart ached for them....I am a few years off being 50 and all their fears, insecurities and thoughts of their youth were too real and far too insightful of the "what-if's" I occasionally mull over as I get older.....I don't like old!!!
It ended on a HFN and a sweet epilogue from Andy's son, Tate. It left me with a smile, which then wobbled a bit when I read the authors note....and you must read the authors note.....I'm pleased to read he has his HEA.....and in this imperfect, wondrous world we reside in, I so wish the same for "Carlos".
Fabulous read. Recommended.
This is told in dual POV's and starts with Andy and Carlos's chance meeting in their youth and then continues with the "now", some 30 odd years later with fate finally chucking them in the "right time and the right place".
This was just full of emotion, I bit my lip on more than one occasion wanting and hoping for them to either to find each other or someone, they were both too young to face life being lonely....my heart ached for them....I am a few years off being 50 and all their fears, insecurities and thoughts of their youth were too real and far too insightful of the "what-if's" I occasionally mull over as I get older.....I don't like old!!!
It ended on a HFN and a sweet epilogue from Andy's son, Tate. It left me with a smile, which then wobbled a bit when I read the authors note....and you must read the authors note.....I'm pleased to read he has his HEA.....and in this imperfect, wondrous world we reside in, I so wish the same for "Carlos".
Fabulous read. Recommended.
March 6, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Well it can never be said of a Rick R. Reed novel that it does not in some way move me emotionally. This time, his new novel, Blink, moved me to tears. A story of second chances, of first loves, and, most assuredly, of finding that you must love yourself and accept who you are before you can love another.
Reed presents this story in dual point of view, each chapter taken by either Carlos or Andy, and we are privy to their inner thoughts, longings, and anxieties. As the story evolves, so do these two men, their lives taking drastically different directions only to find themselves landing back together in nearly the same place. While they are older and wiser, they are still lonely and in need of someone to love and be loved in return.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Well it can never be said of a Rick R. Reed novel that it does not in some way move me emotionally. This time, his new novel, Blink, moved me to tears. A story of second chances, of first loves, and, most assuredly, of finding that you must love yourself and accept who you are before you can love another.
Reed presents this story in dual point of view, each chapter taken by either Carlos or Andy, and we are privy to their inner thoughts, longings, and anxieties. As the story evolves, so do these two men, their lives taking drastically different directions only to find themselves landing back together in nearly the same place. While they are older and wiser, they are still lonely and in need of someone to love and be loved in return.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
July 7, 2015
What I liked best about this story is that the characters felt like real people. I was drawn into their world in the early 80s, how innocent things were back then. It was wonderful that Carlos had his Harry. It was a nice change of pace to see a character like Fremont as a possible love interest, gave the story some color, pun intended.
Although I liked that this was a realistic story I also wanted more of a fairytale as well. How is that possible? I wanted Andy and Carlos to spend more time together in the story. There was a scene early on where we learned that they'd spent a lifetime together and got married but I think that was more wishful thinking on Andy's part.
It was also interesting to see that the earlier encounter meant more to Andy than it did Carlos throughout the years but when they finally meet up again, it was meaningful for both. Overall I liked this story.
Although I liked that this was a realistic story I also wanted more of a fairytale as well. How is that possible? I wanted Andy and Carlos to spend more time together in the story. There was a scene early on where we learned that they'd spent a lifetime together and got married but I think that was more wishful thinking on Andy's part.
It was also interesting to see that the earlier encounter meant more to Andy than it did Carlos throughout the years but when they finally meet up again, it was meaningful for both. Overall I liked this story.
February 12, 2015
If only...even resolving to live without regrets, "if only" is a question many face at one time or another. As the author shares in his afterword, this book is the story of his "if only". A young man about to be married, and in denial about his orientation, has an almost life-altering connection with a stranger on the L train. The nearly unbearable weight of the decision he faces remains long after his choice is made. Decades later, this fictitious story comes full circle, while the author's life took a different path.
February 24, 2015
The what ifs....I really enjoyed this story of Andy and Carlos. They encounter each other on the train when they are in their 20's. 30 years later they do meet again and the timing is right this time. I love second chance love stories and hopefully there will be more with Tate and Kelly!
February 4, 2015
A wonderful story I enjoyed it.
February 6, 2015
Accepting one's self veiled as a tale of second chance at love.
First let me start by stating that I absolutely adore Rick R. Reed's writing. He has a way of telling a story that makes you think about what you've read, long after you've turned the last pages. I'm an avid reader but I absolutely abhor writing. I rather talk face to face with people when expressing my opinions os a book but since I am rarely able to do that, I vowed to only write reviews for books that have moved me deeply.
I won't go into depth w/ summarizing a story. I think the blurb and other reviews posted here do an excellent job so why rehash all that right? I'd rather focus instead on why I felt compelled to write a review and why I think its worth the read if you are looking to sink your teeth into something worth while.
Please bare with me here as I go off on a brief tangent. One of the best line I remember from Anne of Green Gables ( the movie) was when Gilbert advised Anne to "write about what you know." Anne listened to Gilbert and finally became a published author which was always her dream.
Why does this matter? Well it matters because Rick R. Reed's writing transcends words when he writes about what he knows. When he writes about reality, his words, raw and honest... has a tendency to punch you in the gut. That's how powerful the emotional impact was as I read Andi's struggle and his coming to terms with who he is.
I read this book a little over a week ago and struggled to find the words that aptly convey how deeply this story moved me. I finally understand why it was such a struggle... it was a difficult to find the words because Reed already used them while writing this tale which is somewhat autobiographical ( as disclosed in the author's notes at the end).
With that stated, here are my thoughts (that I wrote during and after reading Blink):
Ever read a wonderful book and you want to tell everyone how wonderful it is but you can't find with the words? Yeah, that was my dilemma… a full one week after reading it… and still is. It was while agonizing over how to write this review that I had an epiphany… maybe, just maybe the reason I couldn’t find the words were because Rick R. Reed, already wrote them. Let me start by stating, this isn't a romance novel, This is a life journey. That journey to self discovery and actualization. The beauty that unfolds when you write about what you know.
How many times have worn masks to please others? To deny who we are out of shame and fear of being shunned by those we love? “My biggest fear then was, if people knew, would they still love me? And the other worse fear was my awful wondering if anyone really did love me, because no one knew the real me, that dark part of myself I tried so hard to deny.”
Excerpt From: Rick R. Reed. “Blink.” iBooks.
When we convince ourselves that what we want/ who we are is “wrong/ deviant” and so we do the “right thing” the “normal” thing out of love...
“There’s a vast expanse between knowing a thing and accepting it, especially when it concerns ourselves.” Out of fear and denial...
“Surely being a happy husband and maybe, one day, father would erase these urges that plagued me, would make me whole, would make me normal.”~ Andy
Excerpt From: Rick R. Reed. “Blink.” iBooks.
When we let opportunities that would allow us to be ourselves slip through out fingers...
“Even from the brief glances we exchange, he makes me think there’s the possibility of more than just sex. He makes me think, for the first time in my life, that maybe I could love another man.
And that terrifies me.”
Excerpt From: Rick R. Reed. “Blink.” iBooks.
And despite all our efforts things fall apart anyway, we reflect on our lives, contemplate a “do- over” and question the “what -ifs” after life throws a few curve balls….
“I have always wondered, through my marriage, divorce, and two tragically brief live-in relationships with gay men, what might have happened had my mother not called that night when we got together. Everything could have changed. Maybe I would have called off the wedding. Perhaps I’d be living in contented bliss with the man walking briskly ahead of me. Silly notions? Maybe not.
But then I wouldn’t have my son, Tate. Lots of things wouldn’t have happened.”
Excerpt From: Rick R. Reed. “Blink.” iBooks.
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These moments are what makes this story so beautiful….We can all empathize with the characters presented because we all know how difficult it is to risk everything and face our deepest fears. Especially when we are not being our authentic selves.
And if that wasn’t enough, think of this as you read this story because you will notice it as you read it:
There’s an even deeper beauty that lies within the words unwritten yet you sense them. You sense them and know they're missing because certain flashbacks end abruptly. You feel the pain and devastation... yet he rarely wrote the words. That is writing magic. You know they’re "there". Stark, raw, real. Those who battled crippling odds can see them, read them, connect with them, feel the pain and joy of the words unwritten….yet there none the less. * I think most that find fault with this story will site this but I understand why they are not there. This is loosely autobiographical and out of privacy of others some things should be left unsaid and respected. This in my opinion makes the story even more impactful because it doesn't take away from it in my humble opinion*
I think I’ll stop there with my musings. If you're in the market for a realistic life journey (that does have a romantic happy ending), then read this book. Take the journey with Andi. Trust me it’s worth it.
S/N: Thank you Rick, for sharing so much of yourself.
This is a beautiful story.
First let me start by stating that I absolutely adore Rick R. Reed's writing. He has a way of telling a story that makes you think about what you've read, long after you've turned the last pages. I'm an avid reader but I absolutely abhor writing. I rather talk face to face with people when expressing my opinions os a book but since I am rarely able to do that, I vowed to only write reviews for books that have moved me deeply.
I won't go into depth w/ summarizing a story. I think the blurb and other reviews posted here do an excellent job so why rehash all that right? I'd rather focus instead on why I felt compelled to write a review and why I think its worth the read if you are looking to sink your teeth into something worth while.
Please bare with me here as I go off on a brief tangent. One of the best line I remember from Anne of Green Gables ( the movie) was when Gilbert advised Anne to "write about what you know." Anne listened to Gilbert and finally became a published author which was always her dream.
Why does this matter? Well it matters because Rick R. Reed's writing transcends words when he writes about what he knows. When he writes about reality, his words, raw and honest... has a tendency to punch you in the gut. That's how powerful the emotional impact was as I read Andi's struggle and his coming to terms with who he is.
I read this book a little over a week ago and struggled to find the words that aptly convey how deeply this story moved me. I finally understand why it was such a struggle... it was a difficult to find the words because Reed already used them while writing this tale which is somewhat autobiographical ( as disclosed in the author's notes at the end).
With that stated, here are my thoughts (that I wrote during and after reading Blink):
Ever read a wonderful book and you want to tell everyone how wonderful it is but you can't find with the words? Yeah, that was my dilemma… a full one week after reading it… and still is. It was while agonizing over how to write this review that I had an epiphany… maybe, just maybe the reason I couldn’t find the words were because Rick R. Reed, already wrote them. Let me start by stating, this isn't a romance novel, This is a life journey. That journey to self discovery and actualization. The beauty that unfolds when you write about what you know.
How many times have worn masks to please others? To deny who we are out of shame and fear of being shunned by those we love? “My biggest fear then was, if people knew, would they still love me? And the other worse fear was my awful wondering if anyone really did love me, because no one knew the real me, that dark part of myself I tried so hard to deny.”
Excerpt From: Rick R. Reed. “Blink.” iBooks.
When we convince ourselves that what we want/ who we are is “wrong/ deviant” and so we do the “right thing” the “normal” thing out of love...
“There’s a vast expanse between knowing a thing and accepting it, especially when it concerns ourselves.” Out of fear and denial...
“Surely being a happy husband and maybe, one day, father would erase these urges that plagued me, would make me whole, would make me normal.”~ Andy
Excerpt From: Rick R. Reed. “Blink.” iBooks.
When we let opportunities that would allow us to be ourselves slip through out fingers...
“Even from the brief glances we exchange, he makes me think there’s the possibility of more than just sex. He makes me think, for the first time in my life, that maybe I could love another man.
And that terrifies me.”
Excerpt From: Rick R. Reed. “Blink.” iBooks.
And despite all our efforts things fall apart anyway, we reflect on our lives, contemplate a “do- over” and question the “what -ifs” after life throws a few curve balls….
“I have always wondered, through my marriage, divorce, and two tragically brief live-in relationships with gay men, what might have happened had my mother not called that night when we got together. Everything could have changed. Maybe I would have called off the wedding. Perhaps I’d be living in contented bliss with the man walking briskly ahead of me. Silly notions? Maybe not.
But then I wouldn’t have my son, Tate. Lots of things wouldn’t have happened.”
Excerpt From: Rick R. Reed. “Blink.” iBooks.
This material may be protected by copyright.
These moments are what makes this story so beautiful….We can all empathize with the characters presented because we all know how difficult it is to risk everything and face our deepest fears. Especially when we are not being our authentic selves.
And if that wasn’t enough, think of this as you read this story because you will notice it as you read it:
There’s an even deeper beauty that lies within the words unwritten yet you sense them. You sense them and know they're missing because certain flashbacks end abruptly. You feel the pain and devastation... yet he rarely wrote the words. That is writing magic. You know they’re "there". Stark, raw, real. Those who battled crippling odds can see them, read them, connect with them, feel the pain and joy of the words unwritten….yet there none the less. * I think most that find fault with this story will site this but I understand why they are not there. This is loosely autobiographical and out of privacy of others some things should be left unsaid and respected. This in my opinion makes the story even more impactful because it doesn't take away from it in my humble opinion*
I think I’ll stop there with my musings. If you're in the market for a realistic life journey (that does have a romantic happy ending), then read this book. Take the journey with Andi. Trust me it’s worth it.
S/N: Thank you Rick, for sharing so much of yourself.
This is a beautiful story.
May 13, 2018
Such a wonderful story about how 2 young men, Andy Slater & Carlos Castillo see each other while riding to work on the Chicago L in the year, 1982. Months go by and the men don't talk to each other and we learn some about the two men. Carlos was formerly in the seminary and quit because he was gay. He got a degree and now is a elementary school teacher. Andy works at a catalog house and has plans to be married. Finally, after playing flirty with the eyes, they meet up later, talk, and walk to Andy's apartment. The two men are stopped from doing deed by a call (won't say from whom) and Andy decides not to continue the passion and Carlos leaves (with a note that Andy wrote) they both go their separate ways. Years go by, each man chosen a different path for himself. Will the fickle finger of fate lead Andy back to Carlos? I won't say more, but it's a very good read. Bravo Rick R Reed!
August 13, 2018
Spoiler alert - Andy and Carlos don't meet again for the second time until 75% through the story. Until then there is a lot of soul-searching, flashbacks and what-ifs, and discussions of what it means to be HIV-positive in the 21st century. I skimmed through the book to get to the romance, which was too little, too late. YMMV if you are more interested in Andy and Carlos' separate emotional journeys than I was.
February 22, 2022
A lovely romance. Well developed and three-dimensional characters.
September 15, 2025
A long and sometimes painful story as we follow two men through the years. Both felt a certain attraction as they see each other on the train, but both also carry a certain amount of guilt. It's a hard read at times as we sweep through the years, following each man's life, for good or bad, but it's an outstanding tale. At the end the author admits it's loosely based on his life.
December 20, 2018
This is the second Rick R. Reed book I've read this year, and the consistency continues! There's one thing that threads the two together, and I suspect would be a common element throughout all of Mr. Reed's thirty different novels. I have already selected a handful of them on Goodreads to the 'to read' category, and as much as Reed excels in the Contemporary M/M Romance category, I suspect his horror novels are equally as well written.
Here's the thing: Reed's books aren't what I would call fluffy. And fluffy is not bad - I like fluffy - those books where you settle in comfortably, the read is easy, and the story is sweet (even if there are obstacles to overcome by the main characters). That's not these novels. Reed makes you ponder about the tales he tells. He makes you struggle along with the main characters. He has a unique ability to get the reader deep into the mind space of the story he's weaving.
Let me explain.
In this tale, Andy struggles as a young man with his sexuality, and a chance encounter on the subway leads to a one night encounter. The strife experienced by Andy was tangible. I could relate. I have been there. I'm attracted to men...what does that mean...what about my plans for a family...everyone will hate me...I can't do this...but I can't NOT do it. Andy's struggles at the beginning of this book took me back to my early twenties when I was experiencing the exact same thing.
And then, as we bounce back and forth between the perspectives of Andy and Carlos, we get to see and experience how each of the people involved in this brief encounter views the one-night-stand, and how it shapes them.
Have you ever had that experience in your life? That moment that defined a part of you? A moment in time that burned a memory so deep into you that it formed a part of who you are? That tiny moment, a blink in your existence surely, but an occurrence so important that it framed who you were going to grow into? That is this book. It's the exploration of that moment for Andy and how he carried the one night encounter all throughout his adulthood until he was finally able to accept his sexuality.
And then we see that encounter from Carlos's eyes. In the end, for him, as much as he felt sorry for Andy, it didn't have the same impact. Stunning revelation. What triggers one person to become someone new or different, or embeds a lasting memory, is a passing moment in time for another.
I'm sure we all 'know' that's true, but this story paints it out in bright vivid colours.
It's also a romance about second chances. So those who are looking for that kind of story - this is for you.
I think I have to make more room for Mr. Reed's novels in my library. They are definitely memorable. Once again, the #ownvoices shines through. Those who live the lives and experiences have a certain knack, a magic, and the knowledge for retelling life's journeys. They make new stories that will resonate with every one of us who have experienced something similar.
Here's the thing: Reed's books aren't what I would call fluffy. And fluffy is not bad - I like fluffy - those books where you settle in comfortably, the read is easy, and the story is sweet (even if there are obstacles to overcome by the main characters). That's not these novels. Reed makes you ponder about the tales he tells. He makes you struggle along with the main characters. He has a unique ability to get the reader deep into the mind space of the story he's weaving.
Let me explain.
In this tale, Andy struggles as a young man with his sexuality, and a chance encounter on the subway leads to a one night encounter. The strife experienced by Andy was tangible. I could relate. I have been there. I'm attracted to men...what does that mean...what about my plans for a family...everyone will hate me...I can't do this...but I can't NOT do it. Andy's struggles at the beginning of this book took me back to my early twenties when I was experiencing the exact same thing.
And then, as we bounce back and forth between the perspectives of Andy and Carlos, we get to see and experience how each of the people involved in this brief encounter views the one-night-stand, and how it shapes them.
Have you ever had that experience in your life? That moment that defined a part of you? A moment in time that burned a memory so deep into you that it formed a part of who you are? That tiny moment, a blink in your existence surely, but an occurrence so important that it framed who you were going to grow into? That is this book. It's the exploration of that moment for Andy and how he carried the one night encounter all throughout his adulthood until he was finally able to accept his sexuality.
And then we see that encounter from Carlos's eyes. In the end, for him, as much as he felt sorry for Andy, it didn't have the same impact. Stunning revelation. What triggers one person to become someone new or different, or embeds a lasting memory, is a passing moment in time for another.
I'm sure we all 'know' that's true, but this story paints it out in bright vivid colours.
It's also a romance about second chances. So those who are looking for that kind of story - this is for you.
I think I have to make more room for Mr. Reed's novels in my library. They are definitely memorable. Once again, the #ownvoices shines through. Those who live the lives and experiences have a certain knack, a magic, and the knowledge for retelling life's journeys. They make new stories that will resonate with every one of us who have experienced something similar.
January 27, 2015
This is a great book, plain and simple. Rick R. Reed crafts a story that's beautiful, tragic, painful and thought provoking while also being hopeful and optimistic. Suffice it to say, the emotional impact of this one is heavy. It seems deeply personal and intimate in the way it's told. Both Andy and Carlos have a lot to shoulder on their journey, and their intense, wildly unsettled feelings definitely elicit a riot of very complex feelings for me. Trying to take it all in, every nuance and subtle shift, is overwhelming. Reed beautifully transcribes some of the most difficult moments, making them truly come to life.
The dual point of view in which the story's told adds to the personal connection. It also serves to create more anxiety for me, because I can see how badly both guys are affected and how much they're denying themselves. The hope is almost too much to bear sometimes, and the despair is equally tough. I simultaneously want them to be together and I don't. Not because I think they shouldn't explore their attraction and self-expression, but because making changes means someone has to get hurt. These are times when I can see why people just do nothing - it's easier to just continue living the same existence rather than shake things up. In the end, I wonder what's really fair? In every situation someone will suffer - Andy, Alison and/or Carlos - but they all deserve honesty and happiness. I suppose it's a matter of whether the hurt occurs sooner rather than later, and how much they must all endure.
When I learned that Andy's character is based on Reed's own personal story, it nearly changed how I view what transpires for Andy. As readers, we know these feelings and situations are very possible, but connecting them with someone who isn't just a fictional character adds a different element. My heart breaks for all the longing and heartache, the internal conflict and shame. No one who's basically a good person deserves to feel like he or she is worth less or should have to pretend to be someone different. Blink is written with a wisdom that's a testament to the experience and maturity of someone who has been there. Someone who has suffered through the hurt, anguish and regret but emerged stronger and better for it, and who can now look back with a keen hindsight and see that all those experiences - good and bad - make him just who he is today.
This review can also be found at www.3chicksafterdark.com.
The dual point of view in which the story's told adds to the personal connection. It also serves to create more anxiety for me, because I can see how badly both guys are affected and how much they're denying themselves. The hope is almost too much to bear sometimes, and the despair is equally tough. I simultaneously want them to be together and I don't. Not because I think they shouldn't explore their attraction and self-expression, but because making changes means someone has to get hurt. These are times when I can see why people just do nothing - it's easier to just continue living the same existence rather than shake things up. In the end, I wonder what's really fair? In every situation someone will suffer - Andy, Alison and/or Carlos - but they all deserve honesty and happiness. I suppose it's a matter of whether the hurt occurs sooner rather than later, and how much they must all endure.
When I learned that Andy's character is based on Reed's own personal story, it nearly changed how I view what transpires for Andy. As readers, we know these feelings and situations are very possible, but connecting them with someone who isn't just a fictional character adds a different element. My heart breaks for all the longing and heartache, the internal conflict and shame. No one who's basically a good person deserves to feel like he or she is worth less or should have to pretend to be someone different. Blink is written with a wisdom that's a testament to the experience and maturity of someone who has been there. Someone who has suffered through the hurt, anguish and regret but emerged stronger and better for it, and who can now look back with a keen hindsight and see that all those experiences - good and bad - make him just who he is today.
This review can also be found at www.3chicksafterdark.com.
January 24, 2015
Andy Slater wants to have it all. Marriage, kids, white picket fence, that is perfection in his mind. Until the day he sees a man on the L train, and everything changes. Thirty years later he is a divorced dad that has finally accepted the fact that he is gay and that is okay, but the one that got away still occupies his thoughts every day.
Carlos Castillo was hurt when Andy rebuffed him after being so close to claiming him. One phone call completely derailed their would be romance. Thirty years later he is still nursing a slightly broken heart over the loss of his long term lover to cancer when another chance encounter brings Andy back into his life.
Life is what you make it, but there are these teensy occasions called fate and destiny that can change everyone’s course somewhere along the way. Call it fate or call it destiny, Andy has found his way back to Carlos after three decades apart. But life has changed them both. Andy isn’t the confused young man he was back then, and Carlos still aches from the loss he experienced. Can they finally be happy together? Or does life have other plans for these two?
The story is told from alternating perspectives, Andy and Carlos, and it is also told over a span of thirty something years. From that first glance on the train through all of lifes ups and downs for these two men. I admit I got confused several times throughout the story with the time jumps, and the flow wasn’t always steady. And while I could almost feel Carlos as a person, his story really pulled me in and I was always engrossed while he was narrating, I didn’t feel a connection with Andy overall.
This was just an okay read for me. I do think readers that enjoy stories where their characters never give up on their happiness will really like this one.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Carlos Castillo was hurt when Andy rebuffed him after being so close to claiming him. One phone call completely derailed their would be romance. Thirty years later he is still nursing a slightly broken heart over the loss of his long term lover to cancer when another chance encounter brings Andy back into his life.
Life is what you make it, but there are these teensy occasions called fate and destiny that can change everyone’s course somewhere along the way. Call it fate or call it destiny, Andy has found his way back to Carlos after three decades apart. But life has changed them both. Andy isn’t the confused young man he was back then, and Carlos still aches from the loss he experienced. Can they finally be happy together? Or does life have other plans for these two?
The story is told from alternating perspectives, Andy and Carlos, and it is also told over a span of thirty something years. From that first glance on the train through all of lifes ups and downs for these two men. I admit I got confused several times throughout the story with the time jumps, and the flow wasn’t always steady. And while I could almost feel Carlos as a person, his story really pulled me in and I was always engrossed while he was narrating, I didn’t feel a connection with Andy overall.
This was just an okay read for me. I do think readers that enjoy stories where their characters never give up on their happiness will really like this one.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
January 26, 2016
This is the story of a second chance, split over two parts as Andy and Carlos meet on the "L" in 1982 at a time when Andy is engaged to be married and not admitting to anyone he's gay. The pair nearly get together, but an ill timed telephone call sees them walk away from each other. Fast forward over thirty years as you've two single men, Andy's marriage failed but left him with a son he adores, he's never found "the one" but has had a string of failed relationships. Carlos moved on and through his work as an HIV counsellor found the love of his life in Henry, who was taken by cancer some years before.
Andy starts searching for Carlos, only to discover that he's passed away - or at least so he's told - but that turns out not to be the case. They eventually meet again at a party thrown for Carlos' new "boyfriend's" daughter, who happens to be Andy's son's best friend, and after talking decide that they've been given another chance. The epilogue, some months later and narrated by Tate is a lovely round up.
There wasn't however much of their relationship - more to do with the journey to getting there. That said, it was lovely to have about 70% of the book given over to older, experienced MCs.
As with a lot of this author's contemporary work there is a bit of the authors own story in this one - read the authors note to find out more.
Andy starts searching for Carlos, only to discover that he's passed away - or at least so he's told - but that turns out not to be the case. They eventually meet again at a party thrown for Carlos' new "boyfriend's" daughter, who happens to be Andy's son's best friend, and after talking decide that they've been given another chance. The epilogue, some months later and narrated by Tate is a lovely round up.
There wasn't however much of their relationship - more to do with the journey to getting there. That said, it was lovely to have about 70% of the book given over to older, experienced MCs.
As with a lot of this author's contemporary work there is a bit of the authors own story in this one - read the authors note to find out more.
April 20, 2016
A chance encounter, a foiled tryst then separate paths for 30 odd years before they meet up again.
This is a beautifully written book, written in alternating PoV's, which I love.
It's a second chance love story, when there wasn't even really a first chance...full of hope and dreams. Longing, heartache, regret, confusion....so many emotions.
I loved that the MC's were more mature.
I was rooting for Carlos and Andy to find each other again, their loneliness and uncertainty hit me right in the gut.
I was a little disappointed that Carlos didn't instantly recognise Andy. I wanted Andy to have made as big an impression on Carlos as the other way round. I'm aware it's not rational... but it's how I felt.
I just about fell in love with Tate. He's adorable and the epilogue, told in Tate's PoV, is the stuff silly grins are made of.
The Afterword...I don't know what I can say about that except read it.
This is a beautifully written book, written in alternating PoV's, which I love.
It's a second chance love story, when there wasn't even really a first chance...full of hope and dreams. Longing, heartache, regret, confusion....so many emotions.
I loved that the MC's were more mature.
I was rooting for Carlos and Andy to find each other again, their loneliness and uncertainty hit me right in the gut.
I was a little disappointed that Carlos didn't instantly recognise Andy. I wanted Andy to have made as big an impression on Carlos as the other way round. I'm aware it's not rational... but it's how I felt.
I just about fell in love with Tate. He's adorable and the epilogue, told in Tate's PoV, is the stuff silly grins are made of.
The Afterword...I don't know what I can say about that except read it.
March 28, 2016
"En résumé, un roman qui m'a beaucoup plu au début, et un peu moins par la suite. Des longueurs et des passages qui, pour moi, étaient inutiles, tant les personnages se posaient constamment les mêmes questions, surtout Andy. Mais un beau message de la part de l'auteur, qui c'est aussi un peu inspiré de sa vie pour l'écrire. C'est peut-être aussi pour cela que les sentiments étaient autant présents et emprunts de réalisme et de sincérité."
Chronique complet: http://lireunepassion.blogspot.fr/201...
Chronique complet: http://lireunepassion.blogspot.fr/201...
April 17, 2016
A story that will stay with you
I enjoyed the story but, when I finished the book, I felt a little cheated that the two main characters spent so little time together. Then I realized I kept thinking about the story and knew it would stay in my thoughts. That was my clue that I'd just read a great book about two people who met briefly, went on to live different lives, reconnected by chance and realized they were meant to be together.
I enjoyed the story but, when I finished the book, I felt a little cheated that the two main characters spent so little time together. Then I realized I kept thinking about the story and knew it would stay in my thoughts. That was my clue that I'd just read a great book about two people who met briefly, went on to live different lives, reconnected by chance and realized they were meant to be together.
January 26, 2015
Great story
I really enjoyed this story. Andy and Carlos have a single encounter when they are both young and Andy is way in the closet. Years later, Destiny again puts them in each others sights. Can this be their second chance? Wonderful storytelling, I was pulling for them to work it out. Well done!
I really enjoyed this story. Andy and Carlos have a single encounter when they are both young and Andy is way in the closet. Years later, Destiny again puts them in each others sights. Can this be their second chance? Wonderful storytelling, I was pulling for them to work it out. Well done!
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