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Fehlstart
Tucker Lockes 10-jähriges Collegetreffen steht an und er hat nicht wirklich viel vorzuzeigen. Klar, er ist ein erfolgreicher Anwalt mit einem netten Auto und einer schönen Wohnung, aber sein Leben ist leer und er weiß warum. 10 Jahre zuvor, nicht bereit, sich zu outen, hat er Whit Jamison hinter sich gelassen.
Tucker verbrachte 10 Jahre damit vorzugeben, dass er hetero ist – 10 Jahre, in denen er sich seiner Fehler bewusst war. Aber nichts in der Welt hätte ihn auf das Wiedersehen mit Whit vorbereiten können. Whit ist größer, erwachsener, besser aussehend als je zuvor und ebenso out und stolz wie damals. All die Jahre haben nichts an der Anziehung zwischen ihnen geändert, und es scheint, als würde Tucker eine zweite Chance bekommen. Er muß nur die Jahre der Lügen beiseite schieben und endlich die unausweichliche Wahrheit akzeptieren.
Tucker verbrachte 10 Jahre damit vorzugeben, dass er hetero ist – 10 Jahre, in denen er sich seiner Fehler bewusst war. Aber nichts in der Welt hätte ihn auf das Wiedersehen mit Whit vorbereiten können. Whit ist größer, erwachsener, besser aussehend als je zuvor und ebenso out und stolz wie damals. All die Jahre haben nichts an der Anziehung zwischen ihnen geändert, und es scheint, als würde Tucker eine zweite Chance bekommen. Er muß nur die Jahre der Lügen beiseite schieben und endlich die unausweichliche Wahrheit akzeptieren.
65 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2012
253 people want to read
About the author
Janey Chapel
8 books84 followersJaney Chapel found a paperback romance in her grandmother's bookcase at the age of eleven, inhaled it in one sitting, and then proceeded to devour thousands of romances in a variety of genres over the course of several decades. Eventually, her husband said, "Stop reading! Start writing!" After a lifetime in the South, Janey now lives in the Northeast with her husband and daughter, where she volunteers with the PTO, struggles to adapt to actual winter, and writes fiction in her spare time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
May 1, 2012
I adore this story! Of course I'm always a sucker for a sweet gfy/ofy. I think what made this story so special for me was the alternating first person POVs. I loved getting the voice of both MCs; the author did a great job portraying the different personalities and insecurities of both Whit and Tucker.
4.5 Stars I would have loved for it to be much longer with much more angst.
I ♥ Whit!
4.5 Stars I would have loved for it to be much longer with much more angst.
I ♥ Whit!
January 7, 2023
Ohhh 🥹😍 I loved this short book and I think it’s so underrated. I didn’t know this author but she writes so gooood . I will check more of her books..
April 25, 2012
I really, really enjoyed this story that flows so well due to the simple, easy and forthright 2-person narration. I've always been a big fan of Janey Chapel. It seems like every time I pick up a story of hers, I'm always surprised again by how much I love her style of writing.
These two characters were many, many things, from severely messed up to hilarious at times. More than anything, though, this story was just such a simple and easy read front to back.
What a lovely story!
These two characters were many, many things, from severely messed up to hilarious at times. More than anything, though, this story was just such a simple and easy read front to back.
What a lovely story!
April 26, 2012
3.5 Stars!
I am absolutely loving all of these cute and sexy stories I've been reading! This little tale by Janey Chapel is no different.
At the beginning of his senior year in a small town college, Tucker Locke met Whit Jamison. Tucker was the small time track star and Whit was the slightly gawky freshman with the deep voice. What commences is a secret relationship between Whit and Tucker. They get hot and heavy on back roads, in abandoned barns and in dark corners of their little town. While Whit is out and proud Tucker is just...not. In a scene that had my chest aching with sadness, Whit and Tucker's relationship comes to an end at the end of the school year and they part on bad terms. Tucker runs far and fast from his tiny hometown.
Ten years later, Tucker, who's still deep in the closet, gets an invitation to his ten year reunion and decides that it's time to go home and see about changing his life.
Oh, Tucker and Whit, you two men are a very sexy and endearing couple. Whit is, well, witty. He's confident in himself and had me chuckling with his self-deprecation and his general take on things. I totally related to his high school memories of how he crushed on Tucker and memorized Tucker's class schedule. I can remember being so wrapped up in crushing on someone from afar. It was so cute the way he day dreamed about his life turning out like a John Hughes movie. 80's and the Brat Pack FTW!!
Tucker was emo but understandably so. Also, his emo-ness made him more real and I just wanted to hug him and tell him that he should believe in himself. He could be the man that he wanted to be. He took huge steps and I was invested enough in the story that I was cheering him on.
Janey Chapel pulls off something in this story that can be very hard to do. False Start is told in dual first person narration and, man, it works so well. Tucker and Whit's voices were very different from each other and I was very satisfied that I got both sides of the story.
I have to say that I didn't want this story to end. I enjoyed it so very much and it was just plain ol' CUTE!! I hope we get more of these men. I will definitely be reading more of this author.
I am absolutely loving all of these cute and sexy stories I've been reading! This little tale by Janey Chapel is no different.
At the beginning of his senior year in a small town college, Tucker Locke met Whit Jamison. Tucker was the small time track star and Whit was the slightly gawky freshman with the deep voice. What commences is a secret relationship between Whit and Tucker. They get hot and heavy on back roads, in abandoned barns and in dark corners of their little town. While Whit is out and proud Tucker is just...not. In a scene that had my chest aching with sadness, Whit and Tucker's relationship comes to an end at the end of the school year and they part on bad terms. Tucker runs far and fast from his tiny hometown.
Ten years later, Tucker, who's still deep in the closet, gets an invitation to his ten year reunion and decides that it's time to go home and see about changing his life.
Oh, Tucker and Whit, you two men are a very sexy and endearing couple. Whit is, well, witty. He's confident in himself and had me chuckling with his self-deprecation and his general take on things. I totally related to his high school memories of how he crushed on Tucker and memorized Tucker's class schedule. I can remember being so wrapped up in crushing on someone from afar. It was so cute the way he day dreamed about his life turning out like a John Hughes movie. 80's and the Brat Pack FTW!!
Tucker was emo but understandably so. Also, his emo-ness made him more real and I just wanted to hug him and tell him that he should believe in himself. He could be the man that he wanted to be. He took huge steps and I was invested enough in the story that I was cheering him on.
Janey Chapel pulls off something in this story that can be very hard to do. False Start is told in dual first person narration and, man, it works so well. Tucker and Whit's voices were very different from each other and I was very satisfied that I got both sides of the story.
I have to say that I didn't want this story to end. I enjoyed it so very much and it was just plain ol' CUTE!! I hope we get more of these men. I will definitely be reading more of this author.
May 1, 2012
I liked this story very much. I enjoyed the fact that Tucker was so torn over his actions and his feelings for Whit. I loved how Whit was so 'confident' according to Tucker but really admitted is was because of Tucker. But what I liked most about it is that Whit made Tucker realize what he was missing. Even if it did take a decade.
While I enjoyed the story, I wasn't fond of the writing style. It's told in alternating first person POV's and while I liked that we got to experience things from both Whit and Tucker's POV, I'm just not a fan of this style.
Besides that, I really loved the story. These boys made me laugh over their sparse bickering and created just enough angst for me to stick with the story without being too much. Definitely recommended.
And it's a quick read too! Perfect for someone who's looking to just pass an hour or so with a good book! ;)
While I enjoyed the story, I wasn't fond of the writing style. It's told in alternating first person POV's and while I liked that we got to experience things from both Whit and Tucker's POV, I'm just not a fan of this style.
Besides that, I really loved the story. These boys made me laugh over their sparse bickering and created just enough angst for me to stick with the story without being too much. Definitely recommended.
And it's a quick read too! Perfect for someone who's looking to just pass an hour or so with a good book! ;)
August 21, 2012
Everyone has to find their own way in life in their own time. Only when we are ready can we truly see, accept, and be ourselves. Be yourself sounds so easy, but as we all know, it’s not that simple. Coming out and living an openly gay life in a small, conservative, southern town is pretty fucking far from easy or simple. Tucker Locke and Whit Jamison meet and fall for each other in college, but their relationship will change, touch, and influence their whole lives.
I love when a character in film or fiction turns and addresses the audience or reader. It feels so wrong in so many ways, but yet never fails to surprise and captivate me. Haha….. I blame Ferris Bueller! :)
Janey Chapel’s False Start is a tale told in alternating points of view by two strong, likeable men, who yes—talk to the reader with humor, charm, and ease. Ms. Chapel creates such vivid and real characters with honesty and straight forward language. Told over time with flashbacks and fun, readers learn of Tucker’s passion, Whit’s crush from a far, and their fears. Both men share their tale in their own style often times contradicting or complimenting the other’s story or feelings. Tucker and Whit felt so real to me. The conversational style created a very comfortable, almost intimate feel to the story. As if we were all sitting around sharing pain and memories. Readers won’t realize how deep this story hit them until the end when they crave for more. More! I want more. :)
“When I think about Whit, it’s always of night time and heat, the way his breath caught when I touched him, the slick slide of his tongue.”
The sexual tension is immediate and intense between these two men. What? Did you really think I was going to end this review without mentioning the pent-up, oolala sexy chemistry? Haha…It pulled me right in. Gazes lock. Tension builds. Hearts catch and gasp. But can Tuck and Whit conquer the fear and have what their hearts desire and deserve?
False Start will keep you in suspense, fingers crossed, and rooting until the end!
A sexy read with heart, understanding, and a very sexy pull and attraction. Hope you let Tucker and Whit into your reading hearts.
September 23, 2012
Tuck a very closeted senior at college falls for Whit an out and proud freshman, they part on less than good terms after an 8 month secret relationship.
The story is told from alternating POV's which makes it interesting and I really liked Whit's voice.
They have both harbored feelings for each other in the intermittent 10years and when they finally meet again, Tuck is ready to be who he wants and needs to be.
It ended very abruptly and although I feel hopeful for them, it's still all sort of vague.
The story is told from alternating POV's which makes it interesting and I really liked Whit's voice.
They have both harbored feelings for each other in the intermittent 10years and when they finally meet again, Tuck is ready to be who he wants and needs to be.
It ended very abruptly and although I feel hopeful for them, it's still all sort of vague.
March 9, 2016
This was like reading a diary. The alternating POV's did very well. While Tucker telling his story more angst-driven, Whit telling his story more laid back. It fits the personalities of both of them.
August 27, 2012
I don't know if it's the mood that I am in, or the time of night, or because I needed a pick me up. All I know is that I loved this to pieces. From the beginning, it had me smiling like crazy. Half way through, with Tucker's reunion beer with Whit...yeah, it squeezed on my heart a bit. I couldn't put it down once I started and will definitely be on my re-read list. What a feel good story that leaves you wishing for more. I could read a dozen stories just about these two. Hint. Hint. 4.5/5 Stars
April 26, 2012
Very good m/m romance about two guys who were secretly together for one year during college. One graduated and ran away from even the thought of being gay and the other... didn't.
April 26, 2012
4.5 stars, rounded up because the writing was so effortlessly good. (Seriously! Most of it is written in present tense, and I didn't even notice until almost the end.) Janey Chapel can do more in a novella than many authors do in a full-length novel. Having said that, if she writes one in the future, I'll be first in line to read it.
Something about this story hit me right in the gut. The descriptions of how important Whit was to Tucker, the movie theater scene... I really love when stories make emotions seem palpable. The dual first-person narrative worked surprisingly well, although Whit was the more charming of the two. ("What I really wanted to do was put him on like a coat and wear him for the rest of the day.") Just an enjoyable read all around.
Something about this story hit me right in the gut. The descriptions of how important Whit was to Tucker, the movie theater scene... I really love when stories make emotions seem palpable. The dual first-person narrative worked surprisingly well, although Whit was the more charming of the two. ("What I really wanted to do was put him on like a coat and wear him for the rest of the day.") Just an enjoyable read all around.
April 30, 2012
3,5 stars
Well written story but already told hundreds of times...could have used a little twist.
Well written story but already told hundreds of times...could have used a little twist.
April 28, 2012
Very good, sweet story, but I wish it had been longer.
January 4, 2023
I really enjoyed this one, despite how short it was. I really like Janey Chapel's writing style and I like that she chose an unusual narrative approach that made this 72 page second chance romance work. Basically, she had the MCs taking turns telling the reader about their romantic history (their first romance, their break up and their reunion) so there was very little showing. Some important scenes were shown, like the situation that led to their break up and every part of their reunion but by having the MCs be in the future and tell the reader about their past history, it allowed the author to skip over large chunks of time and parts of the story that aren't essential but couldn't have been as easily skipped over if the author used a normal showing-type narrative structure.
I also liked that the alternating POV allowed the MCs personalities to shine through when they were telling different parts of the story from their perspective. I especially appreciated Whit's humor coming across when he takes over the storytelling or corrects something that Tucker had said. The entire story focuses heavily on Tucker struggling to accept his sexuality and how his fear led to their break up and 10 long years of misery for poor Tucker. The entire experience was filled with pain and sadness for Tucker so whenever Whit took over the storytelling, the tone was much lighter and there was a hint of humor too, which helped keep the tone of the story balanced.
Why only 4 stars? The story was published in 2012 and it felt a little dated to be honest. The entire story revolved around Tucker's struggles with his sexuality, the way that struggle led to his break up with Whit and how Tucker is determined to win that fight when he's given a second chance with Whit a decade later. There's nothing new or unique here amd the story goes exactly the way you think it'll go. But the unique narrative approach made it enjoyable and I also loved Whit and Tucker as characters and as a couple. Not to mention that having Tucker (the big macho jock) bottom while the more experienced but kind-of-twinky-looking Whit topped during Tucker's first time having anal sex was exactly the type of dynamic I love.
Overall, despite the story being quite short and unoriginal, I really liked Janey Chapel's approach and I'm looking forward to re-reading this one whenever I need a quick, sweet second chance romance that hits the spot.
I also liked that the alternating POV allowed the MCs personalities to shine through when they were telling different parts of the story from their perspective. I especially appreciated Whit's humor coming across when he takes over the storytelling or corrects something that Tucker had said. The entire story focuses heavily on Tucker struggling to accept his sexuality and how his fear led to their break up and 10 long years of misery for poor Tucker. The entire experience was filled with pain and sadness for Tucker so whenever Whit took over the storytelling, the tone was much lighter and there was a hint of humor too, which helped keep the tone of the story balanced.
Why only 4 stars? The story was published in 2012 and it felt a little dated to be honest. The entire story revolved around Tucker's struggles with his sexuality, the way that struggle led to his break up with Whit and how Tucker is determined to win that fight when he's given a second chance with Whit a decade later. There's nothing new or unique here amd the story goes exactly the way you think it'll go. But the unique narrative approach made it enjoyable and I also loved Whit and Tucker as characters and as a couple. Not to mention that having Tucker (the big macho jock) bottom while the more experienced but kind-of-twinky-looking Whit topped during Tucker's first time having anal sex was exactly the type of dynamic I love.
Overall, despite the story being quite short and unoriginal, I really liked Janey Chapel's approach and I'm looking forward to re-reading this one whenever I need a quick, sweet second chance romance that hits the spot.
April 30, 2012
3.5 stars. I really enjoyed this shorter story about Tuck and Whit. While they went to the same high school in the same small town, their paths never really cross until they are senior and freshman in college respectively. While there, they begin an illicit affair. Whit does not hide his sexuality, hence the need for secrecy. At the end of his senior year, Tuck ignores Whit and doesn't stand up for him at all when his friends get on him at a movie theater. After graduation, he leaves town and doesn't look back.
Ten years later, Tuck gets an invitation to a 10 year college reunion and he decides to go. He's a successful lawyer in DC and he's tried dating women (who mysteriously resemble Whit), but he's lonely and unhappy. The only time he's even remotely at peace is when he's running. He decides maybe he's tired of running and he will go home and see if he can make any changes.
Of course he runs into Whit his first tour through the old campus building and they decide to get together. He's impressed and of course attracted to the man Whit has grown into. They decide to get together later for a beer at a more out of the way bar. They talk and Tuck confesses his unhappiness and his fear, but also his desire for Whit. Things turn physical between them and after nearly spending the entire night, Tuck drops Whit off at his apartment and goes back to his parent. The next night, Tuck attends the reunion, but realizes he has nothing in common with nor does he care about these people so he leaves. And goes to the one person he does care about.
I thought the motivations and fears and insecurities of both MCs were conveyed well through the use of the alternating POVs. While I know some do not care for that device, I thought it really added to the understanding of where each was in their journey. And honestly, I would really like to read more about them and their future.
Ten years later, Tuck gets an invitation to a 10 year college reunion and he decides to go. He's a successful lawyer in DC and he's tried dating women (who mysteriously resemble Whit), but he's lonely and unhappy. The only time he's even remotely at peace is when he's running. He decides maybe he's tired of running and he will go home and see if he can make any changes.
Of course he runs into Whit his first tour through the old campus building and they decide to get together. He's impressed and of course attracted to the man Whit has grown into. They decide to get together later for a beer at a more out of the way bar. They talk and Tuck confesses his unhappiness and his fear, but also his desire for Whit. Things turn physical between them and after nearly spending the entire night, Tuck drops Whit off at his apartment and goes back to his parent. The next night, Tuck attends the reunion, but realizes he has nothing in common with nor does he care about these people so he leaves. And goes to the one person he does care about.
I thought the motivations and fears and insecurities of both MCs were conveyed well through the use of the alternating POVs. While I know some do not care for that device, I thought it really added to the understanding of where each was in their journey. And honestly, I would really like to read more about them and their future.
April 7, 2013
4.5
This is a very good, very enjoyable story! Yes, it's a pretty common blurb and it's been told countless times before. But Janey Chapel's way of writing somehow resonates with me; it's not so much about the stories, it's about the characters and their honesty about their own failures and flaws, it's how she puts experiences into words that spell out simple but sage truths. (As an example, my favourite line here was: )
I'd have loved to read a bit more on how these two make things work, and the 'running' analogy was mentioned a bit too often for me. Still, this is a quick, easy, and all-in-all definitely recommended read!
This is a very good, very enjoyable story! Yes, it's a pretty common blurb and it's been told countless times before. But Janey Chapel's way of writing somehow resonates with me; it's not so much about the stories, it's about the characters and their honesty about their own failures and flaws, it's how she puts experiences into words that spell out simple but sage truths. (As an example, my favourite line here was: )
I'd have loved to read a bit more on how these two make things work, and the 'running' analogy was mentioned a bit too often for me. Still, this is a quick, easy, and all-in-all definitely recommended read!
April 28, 2012
This is a nice book, but I wasn't wowed at all. I felt there's nothing new here. The story is the standard " one part of the couple is in the closet and asks for a second chance" story. The only different thing is the alternate narrative between the two MCs, but it becomes annoying to me since they're repetitive.
It's not bad, though. Although it's just convenient that when Tucker returned home, Whit was single and available.
It's not bad, though. Although it's just convenient that when Tucker returned home, Whit was single and available.
April 27, 2012
I read this book without a break, but perhaps because of that, at the end it felt like the first part of the story. When realizing that in fact the story was finished, I thought " Wait, that's it? And what now?" So, on the one hand the end felt nice and fitting, on the other hand it was - for me - a somewhat open end and I'm not really fond of that.
August 4, 2017
I liked it a lot, but I think I would have liked it even more as a novel. The book covers SO MUCH ground, and the author does a good job of keeping things interesting, but she's still 'telling' parts that I really would have liked to see 'shown' in a lot more detail.
But I still ended up caring about both characters and really wanting them to be happy, and I believed that they would be, so... job well done!
But I still ended up caring about both characters and really wanting them to be happy, and I believed that they would be, so... job well done!
July 30, 2016
Totally took me by surprise. Yes the storyline has been used many times before but it was handled so well here. Very mature writing. I would have gladly read 100 more pages of this story. Why in the heck has Janey Chapel (apparently) not written anything since 2012?
May 13, 2012
I have one gripe with this book....
It's too short!! I loved every minute of it and I wanted more! I wanted more Whit and Tucker.
Definitely going to be checking out more from this author.
It's too short!! I loved every minute of it and I wanted more! I wanted more Whit and Tucker.
Definitely going to be checking out more from this author.
May 30, 2019
False Start (Faux départ)
By Janey Chapel
Dreamspinner Press, 2012
Four stars
A well-written romance that tells the story of Tucker Locke and Whit Jamison. Small-town boys at a small-town college - Caswell University in Danesboro, North Carolina - Tucker and Whit are the classic teen romance opposites, the popular jock and the smart nerd. They have a steamy, but highly secretive, affair for eight months during Tucker’s senior year in college. The unhappy ending is both silent and emotionally crushing for both of them, described from both men’s point of view (which is a clue, by the way).
The bulk of this novella happens a decade later, at the tenth reunion of Tucker’s Caswell class, again narrated from both his and Whit’s point of view. It is poignant and emotionally plausible, and it studies the emotional differences between these two young men, and how that long-ago rupture affected their lives.
The bottom line here is that coming out, forty-four years after I did it myself, is still fraught with fear and sometimes pain. We still don’t live in a world that is friendly to gay folk, and it is never a bad thing to remind ourselves of that truth.
By Janey Chapel
Dreamspinner Press, 2012
Four stars
A well-written romance that tells the story of Tucker Locke and Whit Jamison. Small-town boys at a small-town college - Caswell University in Danesboro, North Carolina - Tucker and Whit are the classic teen romance opposites, the popular jock and the smart nerd. They have a steamy, but highly secretive, affair for eight months during Tucker’s senior year in college. The unhappy ending is both silent and emotionally crushing for both of them, described from both men’s point of view (which is a clue, by the way).
The bulk of this novella happens a decade later, at the tenth reunion of Tucker’s Caswell class, again narrated from both his and Whit’s point of view. It is poignant and emotionally plausible, and it studies the emotional differences between these two young men, and how that long-ago rupture affected their lives.
The bottom line here is that coming out, forty-four years after I did it myself, is still fraught with fear and sometimes pain. We still don’t live in a world that is friendly to gay folk, and it is never a bad thing to remind ourselves of that truth.
May 16, 2012
I’m a fan of Chapel’s work and with this offering I realize I like her writing more than I like the actual plot. The story here is predictable though well told, and almost boring with its mundane and expected actions. There’s nothing unique or different to the story but Chapel’s clean, inviting prose makes it enjoyable to read anyway. She has a way of writing that invokes clear, impressionable imagery while being smoking hot every single time. It wasn’t until I hit the end of the novella that I realized the characters are woefully under developed, there’s no closure, and no real purpose to the story. Yet despite these issues the crispness of her writing makes me want to read it again for the easy flow, wrenching emotions, and hot sensuality.
The basic plot is one that’s been done to near death by anyone familiar with this genre for even a few minutes. The hot jock athlete from a small town is secretly gay and involved in a clandestine relationship with the only openly gay student. After said open gay student, in this case called Whit, wants the jock to be open too, the predictable argument and breakup occurs with the jock, called Tucker, running away; in both a literal and figurative sense. Cut to ten years later with a convinent college reunion and the two pick up where they left off with the jock now ready for an open relationship, kind of.
My biggest problem with the story is that it’s lacks any real strength or purpose. Neither protagonist is very well developed, despite the story being told in alternating first person. You never really get a good feel for the men, what they’re like, what they want out of life, what their history has been in the time apart. We’re told more about Tucker’s life but still very little. Would these two even be compatible in a relationship? Has Whit ever been in love or has he been waiting for Tucker to magically show up 10 years later? We’re told Tucker and Whit have such wild chemistry that their younger relationship was filled with sex rather than meaningful conversation, a trend that seems to follow their now adult relationship. Perhaps the one conversation prior to the sex shows they’re capable of more in depth talks but it’s still a hope or guess at best.
Counteracting the issues in the story is the strong, clean, and crisp writing. As I said before Chapel has a strong voice and a minimalistic prose that makes the words and scenes flow incredibly easy. There’s no superfluous, lengthy descriptions but instead emotion and decisiveness to action and dialogue. It’s easy to follow along with the characters’ narration and forget about any problems or negatives while reading. It’s only once the story ends with a non-ending that the issues are easy to identify.
Overall False Start is an enjoyable story to read but that’s due entirely to the author’s voice and writing than the actual plot/story itself. If you’re a fan of Chapel this is likely to appeal more than it would otherwise.
The basic plot is one that’s been done to near death by anyone familiar with this genre for even a few minutes. The hot jock athlete from a small town is secretly gay and involved in a clandestine relationship with the only openly gay student. After said open gay student, in this case called Whit, wants the jock to be open too, the predictable argument and breakup occurs with the jock, called Tucker, running away; in both a literal and figurative sense. Cut to ten years later with a convinent college reunion and the two pick up where they left off with the jock now ready for an open relationship, kind of.
My biggest problem with the story is that it’s lacks any real strength or purpose. Neither protagonist is very well developed, despite the story being told in alternating first person. You never really get a good feel for the men, what they’re like, what they want out of life, what their history has been in the time apart. We’re told more about Tucker’s life but still very little. Would these two even be compatible in a relationship? Has Whit ever been in love or has he been waiting for Tucker to magically show up 10 years later? We’re told Tucker and Whit have such wild chemistry that their younger relationship was filled with sex rather than meaningful conversation, a trend that seems to follow their now adult relationship. Perhaps the one conversation prior to the sex shows they’re capable of more in depth talks but it’s still a hope or guess at best.
Counteracting the issues in the story is the strong, clean, and crisp writing. As I said before Chapel has a strong voice and a minimalistic prose that makes the words and scenes flow incredibly easy. There’s no superfluous, lengthy descriptions but instead emotion and decisiveness to action and dialogue. It’s easy to follow along with the characters’ narration and forget about any problems or negatives while reading. It’s only once the story ends with a non-ending that the issues are easy to identify.
Overall False Start is an enjoyable story to read but that’s due entirely to the author’s voice and writing than the actual plot/story itself. If you’re a fan of Chapel this is likely to appeal more than it would otherwise.
September 29, 2012
4.5 stars
What a wonderful story about old lovers who get a second chance.
Tucker makes the decision to go back to his small hometown for his 10 year college reunion. The past ten years have been good to him. He's a successful attorney and is doing quite well for himself. He has managed to avoid going home before now because he wasn't ready to face who he really is and the only person he's ever loved, Whit... who he ran from 10 years earlier. Tucker has pretended to be straight his entire life and has been miserable as a result. Shortly after arriving in his hometown, he sees Whit. Whit is not the same in appearance but he's still the man that Tucker fell in love with. The years apart did not change how either felt about the other.
This is a beautiful story. It alternates between Tucker and Whit's first person POV. I've read some books where that worked but most haven't. It definitely did in this case. You want to see what is in the head of each character as they reunite after so much time away. The parting 10 years before was not a good one. Something happens and Tucker does not handle himself well and Whit is hurt as a result. You get to see what was going on in both of their heads during the break up (through quick flashbacks... that I normally avoid.... but they were essential for this story) and you can feel the frustration of Tucker when you know he wants to come out of the closet and be with Whit but he's scared to.
I think the only complaint I have about this is the length, or lack thereof. Don't get me wrong, a lot happens in those few pages and I don't feel cheated in any way. I just would love to see where Tucker and Whit go from here. I hope the author continues with their story. There is still so much more to see. :)
What a wonderful story about old lovers who get a second chance.
Tucker makes the decision to go back to his small hometown for his 10 year college reunion. The past ten years have been good to him. He's a successful attorney and is doing quite well for himself. He has managed to avoid going home before now because he wasn't ready to face who he really is and the only person he's ever loved, Whit... who he ran from 10 years earlier. Tucker has pretended to be straight his entire life and has been miserable as a result. Shortly after arriving in his hometown, he sees Whit. Whit is not the same in appearance but he's still the man that Tucker fell in love with. The years apart did not change how either felt about the other.
This is a beautiful story. It alternates between Tucker and Whit's first person POV. I've read some books where that worked but most haven't. It definitely did in this case. You want to see what is in the head of each character as they reunite after so much time away. The parting 10 years before was not a good one. Something happens and Tucker does not handle himself well and Whit is hurt as a result. You get to see what was going on in both of their heads during the break up (through quick flashbacks... that I normally avoid.... but they were essential for this story) and you can feel the frustration of Tucker when you know he wants to come out of the closet and be with Whit but he's scared to.
I think the only complaint I have about this is the length, or lack thereof. Don't get me wrong, a lot happens in those few pages and I don't feel cheated in any way. I just would love to see where Tucker and Whit go from here. I hope the author continues with their story. There is still so much more to see. :)
May 6, 2012
2.5 stars
This book was consistent with what was promised in the blurb. Tucker and Whit were "together" in college 10 years ago, and reunite when Tucker comes back to town for his 10 year reunion.
I chose to read this because I loved the concept. I was a little disappointed with how it was handled. It all seemed too simplistic. Problems were solved almost magically and forgiveness was instantaneous and unhesitating.
This book was consistent with what was promised in the blurb. Tucker and Whit were "together" in college 10 years ago, and reunite when Tucker comes back to town for his 10 year reunion.
I chose to read this because I loved the concept. I was a little disappointed with how it was handled. It all seemed too simplistic. Problems were solved almost magically and forgiveness was instantaneous and unhesitating.
October 16, 2013
da www.sognipensieriparole.com
Dieci anni prima Whit era una matricola già consapevole di preferire i ragazzi e con una cotta tremenda per uno degli sportivi più affascinanti del suo college, e Tucker un bel ragazzo che amava correre ma era ancora pieno di incertezze su se stesso.
Dieci anni dopo Whit è un insegnante sereno e consapevole di sé, mentre Tucker è un professionista affermato ma anche un uomo che sta ancora scappando al primo ostacolo che incontra. Soprattutto un uomo che non ha ammesso nulla, né con se stesso né con gli altri, e vive prigioniero dell’apparenza e dell’ipocrisia.
Il tempo sembra non essere più andato avanti da quando Tucker è fuggito e ha lasciato Whit nella cittadina di provincia in cui erano cresciuti. Il suo corpo è stato altrove, ma il suo cuore è sempre rimasto là, bloccato sul ricordo di un ragazzino tutto ossa e capelli lisci e neri.
Questa novella mi è piaciuta moltissimo, perché ruota a un tema pieno di speranza come quello della seconda occasione, della possibilità di rimediare ai propri errori e di avere ancora il tempo per recuperare quello che si era stupidamente perso per strada. Dopo tutti questi anni di finzioni e di vita non vissuta Tucker capisce – e, cosa più importante, accetta - che, alla fine, è solo lui il vero avversario da battere.
Anche se ha avuto poche pagine a sua disposizione, la Chapel è riuscita a delineare due personaggi vivi e molto credibili, con un continuo cambio dell’io narrante che ci permette di guardare ora attraverso gli occhi dell’uno ora dell’altro. Ne risulta una storia d’amore delicatamente tratteggiata, che sa toccare tutte le corde giuste con molta sensibilità.
Dieci anni prima Whit era una matricola già consapevole di preferire i ragazzi e con una cotta tremenda per uno degli sportivi più affascinanti del suo college, e Tucker un bel ragazzo che amava correre ma era ancora pieno di incertezze su se stesso.
Dieci anni dopo Whit è un insegnante sereno e consapevole di sé, mentre Tucker è un professionista affermato ma anche un uomo che sta ancora scappando al primo ostacolo che incontra. Soprattutto un uomo che non ha ammesso nulla, né con se stesso né con gli altri, e vive prigioniero dell’apparenza e dell’ipocrisia.
Il tempo sembra non essere più andato avanti da quando Tucker è fuggito e ha lasciato Whit nella cittadina di provincia in cui erano cresciuti. Il suo corpo è stato altrove, ma il suo cuore è sempre rimasto là, bloccato sul ricordo di un ragazzino tutto ossa e capelli lisci e neri.
Questa novella mi è piaciuta moltissimo, perché ruota a un tema pieno di speranza come quello della seconda occasione, della possibilità di rimediare ai propri errori e di avere ancora il tempo per recuperare quello che si era stupidamente perso per strada. Dopo tutti questi anni di finzioni e di vita non vissuta Tucker capisce – e, cosa più importante, accetta - che, alla fine, è solo lui il vero avversario da battere.
Anche se ha avuto poche pagine a sua disposizione, la Chapel è riuscita a delineare due personaggi vivi e molto credibili, con un continuo cambio dell’io narrante che ci permette di guardare ora attraverso gli occhi dell’uno ora dell’altro. Ne risulta una storia d’amore delicatamente tratteggiata, che sa toccare tutte le corde giuste con molta sensibilità.
July 21, 2014
Le sujet de ce court roman est le coming out ou comment s'accepter enfin soi même. Il s'agit d'un thème assez récurrent dans les romances M/M car il permet d'introduire des émotions fortes et de l'empathie envers les personnages et ici l'auteure en use.
Nous avons Tucker qui ne cesse de se fuir, jusqu'à n'avoir finalement pas de vie en dehors du travail. Il perd ce qui le fait se sentir vivant jusqu'à ce que 10 ans après avoir échouer avec Whit il le revoit. Whit quand à lui est un gay qui s'assume et s'est toujours assumé contrairement à Tucker.
A partir de là l'auto-questionnement de Tucker qui s'était amorcé quelques jours plus tôt devient carrément une question de survie.
J'ai aimé le fait que l'auteure instaure de la nouveauté à travers les deux points de vue différents. Cela rythme le récit et nous réserve des petites surprises concernant l'interprétation de certains actes. Le roman en lui même est court mais suffisant car il n'a pas vocation à nous raconter tout mais à donner l'opportunité d'un nouveau départ.
J'ai aimé le style fluide de l'auteure, l'histoire se lit facilement et est toute mignonne. Il s'agit d'une de ces histoires empruntes d'espoir et d'amour. Par contre j'aurais aimé plus de développement car je suis resté sur ma faim concernant la relation que les deux héros entretiennent et vis à vis aussi du monde : coming out officiel etc... En fait je suis resté sur ma faim tout au long de l'histoire. Ce roman appelle à une suite que nous n'avons pas malheureusement.
Nous avons Tucker qui ne cesse de se fuir, jusqu'à n'avoir finalement pas de vie en dehors du travail. Il perd ce qui le fait se sentir vivant jusqu'à ce que 10 ans après avoir échouer avec Whit il le revoit. Whit quand à lui est un gay qui s'assume et s'est toujours assumé contrairement à Tucker.
A partir de là l'auto-questionnement de Tucker qui s'était amorcé quelques jours plus tôt devient carrément une question de survie.
J'ai aimé le fait que l'auteure instaure de la nouveauté à travers les deux points de vue différents. Cela rythme le récit et nous réserve des petites surprises concernant l'interprétation de certains actes. Le roman en lui même est court mais suffisant car il n'a pas vocation à nous raconter tout mais à donner l'opportunité d'un nouveau départ.
J'ai aimé le style fluide de l'auteure, l'histoire se lit facilement et est toute mignonne. Il s'agit d'une de ces histoires empruntes d'espoir et d'amour. Par contre j'aurais aimé plus de développement car je suis resté sur ma faim concernant la relation que les deux héros entretiennent et vis à vis aussi du monde : coming out officiel etc... En fait je suis resté sur ma faim tout au long de l'histoire. Ce roman appelle à une suite que nous n'avons pas malheureusement.
May 21, 2012
This was too short to earn more than 3 stars, but for what it was, it was well done. I am tired of the "but I don't want to be gay" angst but this one was sparse enough, and short enough, that it wasn't overdone or heavy handed. While it was also too short for the characters to be very well developed, I thought the emotions between them were presented well. This was a short sweet story that was more about the feelings it evoked than about any real plot or action. That's fine with me, that's the kind of romance I like best.
August 22, 2012
This is so freaking beautiful, I can't even find the words.
March 11, 2014
Aw.That.Was.Nice.And.Too.Short.
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