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Those Eyes, That Mouth: Cool Town
My roommate's not even my type. The day we met he was wearing Tretorns and a rugby shirt. Bless his heart. But he had every Anne Rice on his bookshelf, Love and Rockets on CD, and the stereo to do it justice, and I thought, Okay. Maybe…
Two months later I know the look on his face when a song destroys him. But I promised myself I'd never be the pathetic gay guy pining for his straight friend.
Tonight we're going to a Halloween concert dressed as Louis and Lestat. I've spent the last hour on Nathan's makeup—pale base with blue veins, dark eyeliner, red lipstick—my hands shaking the whole time and hoping he didn't notice.
Somewhere between the Cocteau Twins on the turntable and a shared cigarette on his bottom bunk and the moment our faces were closer than they'd ever been, my reasons for keeping my distance have started to feel a lot like excuses.
The show changes everything. Not the way I wanted.
Now I can't be here when he gets back.
My trunk is open. My drawers are empty. I'm packing in the middle of the night.
Those Eyes, That Mouth is a slow burn, roommates-to-lovers, both-pining MM romance—one night that changed everything, set in 1987. Written and narrated by the author in his own voice. The first novella in the Cool Town series, it can be listened to as a standalone.
Ninety minutes—perfect for a commute or a long walk.
Two months later I know the look on his face when a song destroys him. But I promised myself I'd never be the pathetic gay guy pining for his straight friend.
Tonight we're going to a Halloween concert dressed as Louis and Lestat. I've spent the last hour on Nathan's makeup—pale base with blue veins, dark eyeliner, red lipstick—my hands shaking the whole time and hoping he didn't notice.
Somewhere between the Cocteau Twins on the turntable and a shared cigarette on his bottom bunk and the moment our faces were closer than they'd ever been, my reasons for keeping my distance have started to feel a lot like excuses.
The show changes everything. Not the way I wanted.
Now I can't be here when he gets back.
My trunk is open. My drawers are empty. I'm packing in the middle of the night.
Those Eyes, That Mouth is a slow burn, roommates-to-lovers, both-pining MM romance—one night that changed everything, set in 1987. Written and narrated by the author in his own voice. The first novella in the Cool Town series, it can be listened to as a standalone.
Ninety minutes—perfect for a commute or a long walk.
Audible Audio
Published August 28, 2026
About the author
Slade James
6 books255 followersSlade James is a gay man writing and narrating MM romance.
He grew up in Tennessee in the 1970s, and studied English/Creative Writing at the University of Georgia in the late 1980s. His time in Athens, GA gave rise to the Cool Town novellas, and years spent at men’s campgrounds in the American South inspired the Bear Camp series.
He and his partner Steven divide their time between a replica 19th century farmhouse on Sand Mountain in NE Alabama — dogs, barn, creek, pond — and Chattanooga, where the cats live.
He grew up in Tennessee in the 1970s, and studied English/Creative Writing at the University of Georgia in the late 1980s. His time in Athens, GA gave rise to the Cool Town novellas, and years spent at men’s campgrounds in the American South inspired the Bear Camp series.
He and his partner Steven divide their time between a replica 19th century farmhouse on Sand Mountain in NE Alabama — dogs, barn, creek, pond — and Chattanooga, where the cats live.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 24, 2026
What a perfect little story! It hit all the right spots for me and felt very relatable. I absolutely loved the setting and the music choices. It's what I loved listening, too. Interview with the Vampire is also one of my favourite books and movies. I also dressed up as Louis for a Halloween party and did my make-up in the same way. And had a pirate shirt on. 😊
The story is written in such a way that the characters feel real and familiar from the start, and so vividly that I could see each moment playing like a movie in my head. And what a collection of beautiful, sweet, tender and sensual moments! I wish more authors would write intimacy in this way.
Listening to the audiobook narrated by the author made the whole story feel even more intimate. His warm, smooth and velvety voice full of emotion fits the story perfectly. You could say that it's obvious, since he wrote the story. But there are not many authors who can narrate as good as they write. I will be listening to this one again, for sure!
Thank you for the recommendation, Sandy! 💕
The story is written in such a way that the characters feel real and familiar from the start, and so vividly that I could see each moment playing like a movie in my head. And what a collection of beautiful, sweet, tender and sensual moments! I wish more authors would write intimacy in this way.
Listening to the audiobook narrated by the author made the whole story feel even more intimate. His warm, smooth and velvety voice full of emotion fits the story perfectly. You could say that it's obvious, since he wrote the story. But there are not many authors who can narrate as good as they write. I will be listening to this one again, for sure!
Thank you for the recommendation, Sandy! 💕
September 14, 2026
As a certified novella hater…. THIS IS HOW YOU FKN WRITE A NOVELLA!!!!!!!
YEEEEEESSSSSSS!!!
SO SWEET AND JUICY!
Author took a simple idea, a small timeframe, and just absolutely stuffed it to the brim with character lore in just over an hour. And it SMASHED IT OUT OF THE PARK.
The way I need mooooooooooooore of them immediately.
But also, am so completely content with this snippet into their little life.
Filled with quiet moments of sharing cigarettes, talking about music and being roomies, this lil novella will entertain you for the hour you are blessed with its presence.
THE MOST SENSUAL BUT NON SEXUAL MAKE UP APPLYING SCENE WITH YEARNY KNEE PLACEMENTS IS GONNA MAKE YOU CREAM.
Your honour, I LOVED THEM.
SO SWEET AND JUICY!
Author took a simple idea, a small timeframe, and just absolutely stuffed it to the brim with character lore in just over an hour. And it SMASHED IT OUT OF THE PARK.
The way I need mooooooooooooore of them immediately.
But also, am so completely content with this snippet into their little life.
Filled with quiet moments of sharing cigarettes, talking about music and being roomies, this lil novella will entertain you for the hour you are blessed with its presence.
THE MOST SENSUAL BUT NON SEXUAL MAKE UP APPLYING SCENE WITH YEARNY KNEE PLACEMENTS IS GONNA MAKE YOU CREAM.
Your honour, I LOVED THEM.
September 24, 2026
Absolutely fucking gorgeous.
One of the best novellas I’ve ever read. Tingles-inducing tension, beautiful pining, rich setting, believable and lovely characters, brilliantly written (seriously, what?? I could smell, taste, see, feel everything!), and also brilliantly narrated - by the author himself, mind you, which can be hit and miss but this was definitely a hit: His voice is beautiful and completely immersive.
I’m in awe.
My fomo was justified (thanks P for giving me the final push! 🧡) so if you’re still hesitating, stop, and just go read it yourself. Or better still: listen to it. You won’t regret it.
I‘ll for sure reread this gem and cannot wait to see what the author will put out next!
One of the best novellas I’ve ever read. Tingles-inducing tension, beautiful pining, rich setting, believable and lovely characters, brilliantly written (seriously, what?? I could smell, taste, see, feel everything!), and also brilliantly narrated - by the author himself, mind you, which can be hit and miss but this was definitely a hit: His voice is beautiful and completely immersive.
I’m in awe.
My fomo was justified (thanks P for giving me the final push! 🧡) so if you’re still hesitating, stop, and just go read it yourself. Or better still: listen to it. You won’t regret it.
I‘ll for sure reread this gem and cannot wait to see what the author will put out next!
September 18, 2026
Delightful. A near perfectly pitched and paced novella for me. Read in one "just a little read before bed" night.
I adored these two together...the pining, Huck's awareness of Nathan's every move, the authentic roommate/college atmosphere (felt like my college dorm sitch too!), the friendship...just...really sweet and sensual and real. That makeup scene...lovely and intense. Louis and Lestat FTW.
I enjoyed every word.
HEA, roommates/friends to lovers, out gay MC, closeted but willing to come out MC, tension and awareness, authentic college voices. No OM action; OW drama from a friend who has a crush on the non-narrator MC, unreciprocated. Safe for me. Highly recommended.
I adored these two together...the pining, Huck's awareness of Nathan's every move, the authentic roommate/college atmosphere (felt like my college dorm sitch too!), the friendship...just...really sweet and sensual and real. That makeup scene...lovely and intense. Louis and Lestat FTW.
I enjoyed every word.
HEA, roommates/friends to lovers, out gay MC, closeted but willing to come out MC, tension and awareness, authentic college voices. No OM action; OW drama from a friend who has a crush on the non-narrator MC, unreciprocated. Safe for me. Highly recommended.
September 22, 2026
I reread it. 😂
I literally read the ebook yesterday and then, because apparently one experience wasn't enough, I listened to the audiobook today. And OH MY GOD.
Maybe it was because it’s narrated by Slade James himself, but this time it felt even more intense. I didn’t just listen to the story — I FELT it.
I felt his words.
I heard the music vibrating through me.
I could practically smell the cigarette smoke.
I could feel that makeup scene happening right in front of my face.
I was there at that concert, hearing the music and feeling the whole atmosphere.
The first kiss, the first everything!
1h 41 minutes of pure bliss.
And the craziest part? I usually drift off or lose focus with audiobooks. My brain wanders, I realise I’ve missed five minutes, rewind... you know the drill. 😂
Not this time.
I was GLUED to it.
I think Slade narrating his own words somehow made everything feel more intimate and immediate. And I could feel the pining from both sides SO clearly, even though this is single POV. Poor Nathan. 😭 And again the soundtrack hit even harder because ive been listening to the spotity list non stop since yesterday 🥹🫶
So yes, I apparently needed to experience this story twice in 24 hours, in two different formats, because once was simply not enough.
God in heaven. What a little masterpiece. 🖤
____________________________________________________________
Wow. This is how you write a perfect short story.
First, the soundtrack is HEAVEN SENT and such a trip down memory lane. 😌 I grew up listening to so many of these bands, and having them woven into the story brought back so many happy memories. The music isn't just there as background either — it really helps create that whole 1987 atmosphere. The vinyl playing, the little college room, the concert... I could SEE it all.
And the writing is incredible. Somehow Slade James manages to get you right there in that tiny room with them, sitting beside the turntable, feeling every little shift in the atmosphere. There’s something so intimate about the way this is written.
We also get these small pieces of information about each of them — their interests, friends, experiences, little bits of their lives — which makes them feel like actual people rather than just two characters existing for the romance. And I really appreciated that because, with such a short story, it would have been very easy for them to feel one-dimensional.
And then we have THEM.
The tension. The intimacy. The yearning. The mutual pining. 🥹🥹🥹
That slow build towards the first kiss and everything that follows was just DELICIOUS. And I loved that it felt like something that had been quietly building between them rather than suddenly appearing out of nowhere.
ALL THIS IN 70 PAGES.
I usually feel robbed by short stories. 😂 Like, excuse me, I was just getting comfortable and now it's over?!
And don't get me wrong, I absolutely wished this was longer. I would happily have taken another 100 pages of these two baby gays and their little 1987 life. BUT... I'm also genuinely satisfied with what we got, and I think that's a pretty impressive thing to achieve in such a short format.
It feels like getting a glimpse into a much bigger story — just enough to make me care about them, without needing to give us their entire lives.
I hope all their dreams come true. 🖤
I closed the distance between us. My heart was hammering all the way up into my throat.
"Why don't you kiss me, then."
His eyes went wide for half a second. Like he couldn't believe I'd actually said it.
Then he cupped my face in his hands, holding me there. I brought my hands up and circled his wrists, and just held on.
His eyes dropped to my mouth.
And he kissed me.
Like he'd been waiting for months to do it. Hungry. A little clumsy. He tasted like cranberry and tobacco and something warm that was just him.
Until that moment, I'd told myself I hadn't thought about it. But I had.
When we broke apart, the foundation was smeared around his mouth, the golden tone of his real skin showing through.
He laughed. Breathless. "Fuck."
"Fuck," I said.
He kissed me again.
Slower this time.
I grabbed his hips and pulled him closer. We were pressed together now, hard through our clothes, and the friction made us both groan into each other's mouths.
He broke away, breathing hard. "I've wanted to do that since the first day."
"The first day?"
“You walked in wearing that Siouxsie shirt.” He touched my bottom lip with his thumb. "I thought you were the coolest person I'd ever seen."
I literally read the ebook yesterday and then, because apparently one experience wasn't enough, I listened to the audiobook today. And OH MY GOD.
Maybe it was because it’s narrated by Slade James himself, but this time it felt even more intense. I didn’t just listen to the story — I FELT it.
I felt his words.
I heard the music vibrating through me.
I could practically smell the cigarette smoke.
I could feel that makeup scene happening right in front of my face.
I was there at that concert, hearing the music and feeling the whole atmosphere.
The first kiss, the first everything!
1h 41 minutes of pure bliss.
And the craziest part? I usually drift off or lose focus with audiobooks. My brain wanders, I realise I’ve missed five minutes, rewind... you know the drill. 😂
Not this time.
I was GLUED to it.
I think Slade narrating his own words somehow made everything feel more intimate and immediate. And I could feel the pining from both sides SO clearly, even though this is single POV. Poor Nathan. 😭 And again the soundtrack hit even harder because ive been listening to the spotity list non stop since yesterday 🥹🫶
So yes, I apparently needed to experience this story twice in 24 hours, in two different formats, because once was simply not enough.
God in heaven. What a little masterpiece. 🖤
____________________________________________________________
Wow. This is how you write a perfect short story.
First, the soundtrack is HEAVEN SENT and such a trip down memory lane. 😌 I grew up listening to so many of these bands, and having them woven into the story brought back so many happy memories. The music isn't just there as background either — it really helps create that whole 1987 atmosphere. The vinyl playing, the little college room, the concert... I could SEE it all.
And the writing is incredible. Somehow Slade James manages to get you right there in that tiny room with them, sitting beside the turntable, feeling every little shift in the atmosphere. There’s something so intimate about the way this is written.
We also get these small pieces of information about each of them — their interests, friends, experiences, little bits of their lives — which makes them feel like actual people rather than just two characters existing for the romance. And I really appreciated that because, with such a short story, it would have been very easy for them to feel one-dimensional.
And then we have THEM.
The tension. The intimacy. The yearning. The mutual pining. 🥹🥹🥹
That slow build towards the first kiss and everything that follows was just DELICIOUS. And I loved that it felt like something that had been quietly building between them rather than suddenly appearing out of nowhere.
ALL THIS IN 70 PAGES.
I usually feel robbed by short stories. 😂 Like, excuse me, I was just getting comfortable and now it's over?!
And don't get me wrong, I absolutely wished this was longer. I would happily have taken another 100 pages of these two baby gays and their little 1987 life. BUT... I'm also genuinely satisfied with what we got, and I think that's a pretty impressive thing to achieve in such a short format.
It feels like getting a glimpse into a much bigger story — just enough to make me care about them, without needing to give us their entire lives.
I hope all their dreams come true. 🖤
I closed the distance between us. My heart was hammering all the way up into my throat.
"Why don't you kiss me, then."
His eyes went wide for half a second. Like he couldn't believe I'd actually said it.
Then he cupped my face in his hands, holding me there. I brought my hands up and circled his wrists, and just held on.
His eyes dropped to my mouth.
And he kissed me.
Like he'd been waiting for months to do it. Hungry. A little clumsy. He tasted like cranberry and tobacco and something warm that was just him.
Until that moment, I'd told myself I hadn't thought about it. But I had.
When we broke apart, the foundation was smeared around his mouth, the golden tone of his real skin showing through.
He laughed. Breathless. "Fuck."
"Fuck," I said.
He kissed me again.
Slower this time.
I grabbed his hips and pulled him closer. We were pressed together now, hard through our clothes, and the friction made us both groan into each other's mouths.
He broke away, breathing hard. "I've wanted to do that since the first day."
"The first day?"
“You walked in wearing that Siouxsie shirt.” He touched my bottom lip with his thumb. "I thought you were the coolest person I'd ever seen."
September 20, 2026
Beautiful.
Single pov (Huck) first person past tense.
Huck is crushing hard on his roommate Nathan. But Nathan ist straight, right? And Kelly is obviously hitting on Nathan.. which doesn't make Huck feel very optimistic, like, at all.
We get one weekend of insecurity paired with longing, and it felt so very real and genuine!
From the author's note:
"Those Eyes, That Mouth takes place in my fictional college town of Edgewood, Georgia in the fall of 1987. I don't know what it's like to be a young gay man in college today. But I know what it was like back then. This is that world."
Single pov (Huck) first person past tense.
Huck is crushing hard on his roommate Nathan. But Nathan ist straight, right? And Kelly is obviously hitting on Nathan.. which doesn't make Huck feel very optimistic, like, at all.
We get one weekend of insecurity paired with longing, and it felt so very real and genuine!
From the author's note:
"Those Eyes, That Mouth takes place in my fictional college town of Edgewood, Georgia in the fall of 1987. I don't know what it's like to be a young gay man in college today. But I know what it was like back then. This is that world."
September 28, 2026
GR FRIENDS, YOU WERE RIGHT. THIS WAS GORGEOUS.
It felt like watching an old film, or even being right there. The yearning, the colours, the sounds, the music.
I need a cigarette immediately (I quit years ago). I need to call my university friends. I need to go to a concert, and maybe read Ann Rice (I never have).
This novel is why I read! I need more.
It felt like watching an old film, or even being right there. The yearning, the colours, the sounds, the music.
I need a cigarette immediately (I quit years ago). I need to call my university friends. I need to go to a concert, and maybe read Ann Rice (I never have).
This novel is why I read! I need more.
September 25, 2026
4**** stars
Alexa, play “Those Eyes, That Mouth” by Cocteau Twins
very cute short story set in the mid-80s about two college roomies after some little jealousies finally admitting having had the hots for each other all along. (and let’s pretend i wasn’t born right around that corner and had to label this a historical, k?)
also, great narration by the author himself. ♡
***********
Cool Town Series
Book 1 - Those Eyes, That Mouth - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - After The Arrows - tbd
⇢ I don't know what it's like to be a young gay man in college now. But I know what it was like in 1987.
Alexa, play “Those Eyes, That Mouth” by Cocteau Twins
The song began with a sharp, insistent beat. drums like a march with bright guitar notes ringing rhythmic pulses. Then Liz Fraser’s voice came in, low and full throated, chanting in that hypnotic rhythm. Something between nursery rhyme and incantation. the lyrics were unintelligible but the title alone said everything it needed to.
very cute short story set in the mid-80s about two college roomies after some little jealousies finally admitting having had the hots for each other all along. (and let’s pretend i wasn’t born right around that corner and had to label this a historical, k?)
also, great narration by the author himself. ♡
***********
Cool Town Series
Book 1 - Those Eyes, That Mouth - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - After The Arrows - tbd
⇢ I don't know what it's like to be a young gay man in college now. But I know what it was like in 1987.
September 22, 2026
• 1980s college roommate romance • m/m • novella • single, first person pov •
Ok I loved this. Timeline of less than 24hours, four friends, a dinner, a Halloween concert. Not a heap of dialogue, but when it was there, it hit.
This had such a beautiful nostalgic feel 🥹 The vinyls, the cigarettes, the bunks. LOVED IT ALL. Our MMC was a little piney and a little sulky and tried so hard to not be that guy who awkwardly lusted after his roommate.
This was such a lovely surprise 🫠
4.5⭐️
2🌶️
Ok I loved this. Timeline of less than 24hours, four friends, a dinner, a Halloween concert. Not a heap of dialogue, but when it was there, it hit.
This had such a beautiful nostalgic feel 🥹 The vinyls, the cigarettes, the bunks. LOVED IT ALL. Our MMC was a little piney and a little sulky and tried so hard to not be that guy who awkwardly lusted after his roommate.
This was such a lovely surprise 🫠
4.5⭐️
2🌶️
September 29, 2026
♾️⭐️
YES!!!
Absolutely yes!
Omg, this was just the cutest short story.
This is why I love GR, how else would I have found this little gem.
Thank you to everyone that reviewed this book.
I needed this injection of happiness today. I rarely re-read anything because my TBR is too long, but this will forever be my comfort read.
Toe tapping happy 🥹💙♾️
YES!!!
Absolutely yes!
Omg, this was just the cutest short story.
This is why I love GR, how else would I have found this little gem.
Thank you to everyone that reviewed this book.
I needed this injection of happiness today. I rarely re-read anything because my TBR is too long, but this will forever be my comfort read.
Toe tapping happy 🥹💙♾️
September 21, 2026
🎧 What an amazing little novella! The audio was superb 🌸 It’s set in the second half of the 80’s and I was afraid it’s going to be very angsty or sad or something like that, far from it. It has very distinct vibe, very atmospheric.Every touch, every tiny look between the characters was very pronounced. The make up scene, something that’s supposed to be so ordinary, was super erotic. I love that it was focused on only one night, but the after I suppose was very optimistic and joyful. Highly recommend 🌸
September 27, 2026
4.5⭐
People have been slapping 5 stars to this book in such a frequency that I feel like I need to apologise for my 4.
Yes, it is an incredibly lovely novella, nicely contained, with a great sense of time. There's a pushy girl that annoys the MC to no end but he recognises she's a nice person, so I can't even hate that. 😅 And then there's some delicious realisations in the end.
Loved it, didn't quite die for it, but I'm sure I'll be very happy to reread.
People have been slapping 5 stars to this book in such a frequency that I feel like I need to apologise for my 4.
Yes, it is an incredibly lovely novella, nicely contained, with a great sense of time. There's a pushy girl that annoys the MC to no end but he recognises she's a nice person, so I can't even hate that. 😅 And then there's some delicious realisations in the end.
Loved it, didn't quite die for it, but I'm sure I'll be very happy to reread.
September 27, 2026
This is what a novella should be. Short, but with enough backstory and character detail to pull you into the story.
I loved everything about it: the yearning was on point, the friendship, the Interview with the Vampire costumes, the hand-holding, the love declaration!
I loved everything about it: the yearning was on point, the friendship, the Interview with the Vampire costumes, the hand-holding, the love declaration!
September 22, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
September 16, 2026
This was the start of a new relationship novella of my dreams and I devoured every second of it. If you know me, you'd know that there is nothing I love more than reading about the very start of a new relationship with all of the little anxities of does the other like me too and the trying to act like you're not catching feelings stage and the little awkward moments of jealousy when you're both not understanding that the other wants you yet and the way this book captured these moments was just the best thing to me. I could not get enough of it.
Also, the vibes and the ambiance in this book was just so peak. This was set in 1987 and the way every little piece of the set up was detailed and shown was just so magical to read. This was only 70 pages but it was probably the best stretch of 70 pages I have ever read. I was glued to those pages like it included a manual on how to change my entire life at the click of a button and I could not put the book down for any reason, I was just so obsessed with everything in this one.
Also, the vibes and the ambiance in this book was just so peak. This was set in 1987 and the way every little piece of the set up was detailed and shown was just so magical to read. This was only 70 pages but it was probably the best stretch of 70 pages I have ever read. I was glued to those pages like it included a manual on how to change my entire life at the click of a button and I could not put the book down for any reason, I was just so obsessed with everything in this one.
September 22, 2026
Okayyyy....I see i see, this was really cute!!! Even though it was short it gave me everything it needed to. The characters were really fun, this felt very realistic. ANYWAYS i really liked this! Usually i hate reading novellas cuz if i love them it'll kill me that there is no more about those characters 70 pages of these characters felt enough, I don't need more, i got everything I needed.
I knew starting this that it'd be 3 stars cuz i dont think i'll ever rate a novella higher than 3 stars(don't write that down) and this was gooodd but nothing special. Still liked it!
I can't find this on FABLE and so I'm gonna run mad because now the numbers don't match 🧍🏾
I knew starting this that it'd be 3 stars cuz i dont think i'll ever rate a novella higher than 3 stars(don't write that down) and this was gooodd but nothing special. Still liked it!
I can't find this on FABLE and so I'm gonna run mad because now the numbers don't match 🧍🏾
September 23, 2026
So, so good. James packed so much yearning in just 70 pages!
September 19, 2026
I hate pushy girls who throw themselves at a guy who is clearly not interested.
Ewwww no!!! I'm not telling you shit, bitch! My sex life is none of your fucking business! Just keep your nose out of my business!
This was something. It was pretty hot, the makeup scene was fire, but I absolutely hated the girls, both of them and I hate that none of them just told them NO!!! I loved that they were both virgins, but I would have loved them not to use a condom. I also would have loved them to go both ways. And it was too short.
Ewwww no!!! I'm not telling you shit, bitch! My sex life is none of your fucking business! Just keep your nose out of my business!
This was something. It was pretty hot, the makeup scene was fire, but I absolutely hated the girls, both of them and I hate that none of them just told them NO!!! I loved that they were both virgins, but I would have loved them not to use a condom. I also would have loved them to go both ways. And it was too short.
Read
September 27, 2026Charming and full of 80s nostalgia. Novellas can be tricky and I think James nailed the focus required for one to earn its length. Enough plot and character to need more than a short story, but not so much for a full novel. It’s also hard to know how much of this is personal reminiscence, but it *feels* like it, like someone reflecting back on a distant past that can be brought forth through a song, a photograph, a smell.
September 25, 2026
I loved this!
September 12, 2026
Wow. I did not expect such a short novella to pack such a huge punch. I went looking for something short I could listen to while on a drive and picked this randomly because the title seemed interesting. Little did I know I had found not only a new favorite book, but a new favorite author and narrator as well. What a lucky freaking choice that was! I’m seriously blown away.
The story itself takes place over Halloween weekend in 1987, literally less than a 24-hour period. Had I not been driving, I think I could have closed my eyes and been transported to that day, felt the autumn air, heard the sounds of the college campus and ’80s music, smelled the cigarette smoke. It probably doesn’t hurt that I was in college at that time and the vivid descriptions brought back visceral memories, but I think even without that, I could have pictured it. The writing was that good.
And even though we only got Huck’s POV, I could FEEL Nathan’s emotions just from the way Huck described his reactions. God, the want and need seeped from that boy’s pores. How Huck didn’t see it, I have no idea. He was clearly in his own head so much he couldn’t see what was right in front of him. And while it ends on more of an HFN, in my head there is absolutely no doubt these boys get the HEA they deserve.
Also, there’s something special about an author narrating their own work that makes an audiobook feel so much more personal.
Narration Rating
Slade James as Huck: 5/5
The story itself takes place over Halloween weekend in 1987, literally less than a 24-hour period. Had I not been driving, I think I could have closed my eyes and been transported to that day, felt the autumn air, heard the sounds of the college campus and ’80s music, smelled the cigarette smoke. It probably doesn’t hurt that I was in college at that time and the vivid descriptions brought back visceral memories, but I think even without that, I could have pictured it. The writing was that good.
And even though we only got Huck’s POV, I could FEEL Nathan’s emotions just from the way Huck described his reactions. God, the want and need seeped from that boy’s pores. How Huck didn’t see it, I have no idea. He was clearly in his own head so much he couldn’t see what was right in front of him. And while it ends on more of an HFN, in my head there is absolutely no doubt these boys get the HEA they deserve.
Also, there’s something special about an author narrating their own work that makes an audiobook feel so much more personal.
Narration Rating
Slade James as Huck: 5/5
September 15, 2026
❤️ roommates/friends to lovers-set in the 80’s
Even though this was a novella it didn’t feel like it, there was a lot packed into it, in a good way.
It was very sweet, lots of yearning and a little steam. It was all the perfect amount for the length of the book!! ❤️
I listened to the audiobook, the author narrated his own book and I enjoyed it a lot!
Even though this was a novella it didn’t feel like it, there was a lot packed into it, in a good way.
It was very sweet, lots of yearning and a little steam. It was all the perfect amount for the length of the book!! ❤️
I listened to the audiobook, the author narrated his own book and I enjoyed it a lot!
September 29, 2026
This was a beautiful novella and of course I want more! I loved every second of this. James brings back a time that was special for him and we are able to experience that. I loved every second.
September 9, 2026
Such great YEARNING! This took me back to my beloved teen years where music was LIFE! Really enjoyed the storyline & nostalgia. Super quick listen & well-performed narration by the author.
September 16, 2026
This novella is perfect.
First, I want to say it KILLED me to classify it under "historical fiction." Gods, I'm old.
Second, this sweet story had so much queer longing! It took me right back to the days where there were no cell phones, no 24 hour news, no ubiquitous content being hurled at you from every direction. I loved how music and coffee and cigarettes glued everything together. These two characters existed in their own little bubble in their little college town and it was beautiful.
It's always amazing to read a story of characters who went through similar experiences as you. Memories of (finally!) finding reciprocal love, being intimate for the first time, and letting one's guard down to fully embrace the moment, all came rushing back to me as I read Nathan and Huck's story.
I enjoyed the author's reading of his work on the audiobook. His soft Georgia drawl peppered with a gentle gay patois pulled at my Southern roots, exposing nostalgic nerves to the air for the first time in a long time.
After finishing this novella I'm left in a relaxed state, "Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want" repeating in my head. If this is the first story in a series, we're gonna need those next stories NOW, Mr. James!
First, I want to say it KILLED me to classify it under "historical fiction." Gods, I'm old.
Second, this sweet story had so much queer longing! It took me right back to the days where there were no cell phones, no 24 hour news, no ubiquitous content being hurled at you from every direction. I loved how music and coffee and cigarettes glued everything together. These two characters existed in their own little bubble in their little college town and it was beautiful.
It's always amazing to read a story of characters who went through similar experiences as you. Memories of (finally!) finding reciprocal love, being intimate for the first time, and letting one's guard down to fully embrace the moment, all came rushing back to me as I read Nathan and Huck's story.
I enjoyed the author's reading of his work on the audiobook. His soft Georgia drawl peppered with a gentle gay patois pulled at my Southern roots, exposing nostalgic nerves to the air for the first time in a long time.
After finishing this novella I'm left in a relaxed state, "Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want" repeating in my head. If this is the first story in a series, we're gonna need those next stories NOW, Mr. James!
September 29, 2026
🪡3 *read it once and forget it*stars.
This one was soaked in 80s nostalgia.Cute but I couldn’t care less. All those references were wasted on me, ngl.
The story follows a gay mmc pining after his supposedly straight roommate. The girls were so annoying, YES BOTH OF THEM. Kelly especially, who couldn’t read disinterest if it came with a neon sign and arrows pointing straight at it.
My favourite moment was when the noise dropped away and it was just the two of them in their dorm room, lying down and staring at each other in the quiet weight of unspoken feelings.
-
"We lay there, not moving, barely breathing. The smoke from the cigarette still hung in the air above us."
-
𝜗𝜚That subtle tension was 💕
𝘲𝘶𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘴.
-
"So what are we listening to?"
-
tropes: mm romance, novella, forced proximity, 80's setting
This one was soaked in 80s nostalgia.Cute but I couldn’t care less. All those references were wasted on me, ngl.
The story follows a gay mmc pining after his supposedly straight roommate. The girls were so annoying, YES BOTH OF THEM. Kelly especially, who couldn’t read disinterest if it came with a neon sign and arrows pointing straight at it.
My favourite moment was when the noise dropped away and it was just the two of them in their dorm room, lying down and staring at each other in the quiet weight of unspoken feelings.
-
"We lay there, not moving, barely breathing. The smoke from the cigarette still hung in the air above us."
-
𝜗𝜚That subtle tension was 💕
𝘲𝘶𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘴.
-
"So what are we listening to?"
-
tropes: mm romance, novella, forced proximity, 80's setting
September 5, 2026
90 minutes of pure swoony, yearny heaven.
This audiobook is narrated by it's author so you know that it comes across exactly how the writer intended and it is absolutely perfect.
Set in the 80's, and having a strong sense of time and place (including many a music reference so I have been able to enjoy some old but new-to-me music), this descriptive novella is so beautifully written that I felt like I was seeing it with my eyes. I adored these characters and think it is some kind of magic that I fell in love with them in such a short time. There is a scene where they are getting ready to go to a party together which was so laden with unexplored sexual tension that I almost dissolved.
An hour and a half of housework rendered absolutely delightful.
This audiobook is narrated by it's author so you know that it comes across exactly how the writer intended and it is absolutely perfect.
Set in the 80's, and having a strong sense of time and place (including many a music reference so I have been able to enjoy some old but new-to-me music), this descriptive novella is so beautifully written that I felt like I was seeing it with my eyes. I adored these characters and think it is some kind of magic that I fell in love with them in such a short time. There is a scene where they are getting ready to go to a party together which was so laden with unexplored sexual tension that I almost dissolved.
An hour and a half of housework rendered absolutely delightful.
September 19, 2026
A nostalgic gut-punch at it’s finest
I have thoroughly enjoyed all of the Slade James books I’ve read, and this one really soared to the top of that list. Yes, this short novella packs a mighty big punch of nostalgia that both pains and brings great joy. His writing is all encompassing and brings you straight to the front row of the story. Being from the age group from this setting, I could hear the music, I could see the characters, I could feel and smell the smoke. Being someone who has pined hopelessly over someone, I felt it deep in the heart pangs. Really, really good read. Can’t wait for more.
I have thoroughly enjoyed all of the Slade James books I’ve read, and this one really soared to the top of that list. Yes, this short novella packs a mighty big punch of nostalgia that both pains and brings great joy. His writing is all encompassing and brings you straight to the front row of the story. Being from the age group from this setting, I could hear the music, I could see the characters, I could feel and smell the smoke. Being someone who has pined hopelessly over someone, I felt it deep in the heart pangs. Really, really good read. Can’t wait for more.
September 16, 2026
I normally don’t go for college romances, but Slade is a one click for me. I barely read the blurb before I was hitting the button to purchase. He has a way of describing a scene and building a world so vividly you can see every single detail, hear the music and the sounds and smell the scents. This book reads like a Southern gothic-infused memoir in the best way. The emotion is so real. And the narration! This man could read technical manuals in Klingon and I’d be one clicking. I can’t wait for the next book.
September 16, 2026
I normally don’t go for college romances, but Slade is a one click for me. I barely read the blurb before I was hitting the button to purchase. He has a way of describing a scene and building a world so vividly you can see every single detail, hear the music and the sounds and smell the scents. This book reads like a Southern gothic-infused memoir in the best way. The emotion is so real. And the narration! This man could read technical manuals in Klingon and I’d be one clicking. I can’t wait for the next book.
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