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The Actor's Circle #1
The Complications of T
Novelette (16 000 words)
Genre(s): Contemporary, Romance, Erotica, LGBT+/GSM
Stuart Leandro knows he’s washed up, both on the big screen, and in his marriage. Then, when things take an even bigger turn for the worse one night, he winds up blind drunk and lost in a foreign city.
Thankfully, someone’s there to rescue him before his face ends up plastered all over the tabloids.
Wary of the motives of the reclusive stranger who brings the fading star into the quiet shelter of a hip but isolated loft, Stuart nonetheless can't deny his curiosity… Or his attraction. Tim is unlike anyone the actor has ever met, but underneath the mystery and quiet attempts at invisibility, Stuart discovers someone whose life has been intertwined with his own for years.
Neither could have predicted that Tim's act of kindness would lead to one of the most intense encounters of their lives—but, are they willing to weather the media storm their extraordinary relationship will cause?
Genre(s): Contemporary, Romance, Erotica, LGBT+/GSM
Stuart Leandro knows he’s washed up, both on the big screen, and in his marriage. Then, when things take an even bigger turn for the worse one night, he winds up blind drunk and lost in a foreign city.
Thankfully, someone’s there to rescue him before his face ends up plastered all over the tabloids.
Wary of the motives of the reclusive stranger who brings the fading star into the quiet shelter of a hip but isolated loft, Stuart nonetheless can't deny his curiosity… Or his attraction. Tim is unlike anyone the actor has ever met, but underneath the mystery and quiet attempts at invisibility, Stuart discovers someone whose life has been intertwined with his own for years.
Neither could have predicted that Tim's act of kindness would lead to one of the most intense encounters of their lives—but, are they willing to weather the media storm their extraordinary relationship will cause?
ebook
First published August 18, 2015
9 people are currently reading
705 people want to read
About the author
Bey Deckard
29 books772 followersArtist, dog lover, and writer of very queer, very adult fiction.
Bey lives in Montréal, Canada where he spends most of his time writing, doing graphic work, painting portraits, speaking French, cooking tasty vegetarian eats, or watching more movies than is good for him. If you’re the curious type, www.beydeckard.com is where you’ll find art and free stories by Bey as well as information on his published works.
100% human-powered creator.
Bey lives in Montréal, Canada where he spends most of his time writing, doing graphic work, painting portraits, speaking French, cooking tasty vegetarian eats, or watching more movies than is good for him. If you’re the curious type, www.beydeckard.com is where you’ll find art and free stories by Bey as well as information on his published works.
100% human-powered creator.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
March 10, 2016
UNICORN GANGBANG REVIEW - Where we all wanted to sample some of Bey's contemporary musings!
Cupcake, Lori, Justin and Ann's can be read here:
My two cents from the group reviewage.
4.25 HEARTS--Quite simply this is just a romance between two people who just so happen to meet at the right time under slightly intoxicated circumstances. The rest...gender identity, relationship status, fan/hero worship...those are just semantics.
Sweet? Eh...I guess? *scrunches nose* Considering the typical stuff written by the author, this could be considered sweeter. I think it's definitely lighter with a sprinkling of hurt/comfort (very thin layer covering the prominent romantic tones). The story put me in a happy sort of mood.
The world we live in is constantly changing, right? We're becoming more politically correct and title specific each day. And while the transgender community is not new, it's still in its infancy compared to other parts of the LGBT acronym. The media continues to embrace popular trans figures and it makes me happy. A lot of everyday people are still catching up to change, embracing the rainbow. I think the story's strongest suit is the fact it embraces the main character's cluelessness about a lot of trans topics. I thought it was written tastefully, writing the story from 1st POV helped eased the vibe the author was going for...well for me anyway.
Stuart Leandro's world is crashing down. The famous actor fell off the wagon and is embarrassingly drunk. He gets saved by a well meaning passerby before any fans take any compromising photos. Stuart's estranged wife has finally tapped the final nail in the coffin, his career is sort of in the toilet. Suffice to say, it's just not Stuart's day. Or maybe it is. He's saved by Tim who he confuses to be a man and then a woman and then he sort of puts his foot in his mouth. But once Tim lets him know it's okay and they get to know each other, there is an attraction that they can't deny. This is Stuart's first gay experience and he handles it as best he can. Namely with questions and coming a few times.
There was a sense of humor and snark:
Plus it had the wish fulfillment factor, a cinephile's wet dream: getting to meet their favorite actor and really getting to share their passion and interests. And if they happen to fall for one another on a more intimate level,it doesn't hurt either.
Now, since it has the wish fulfillment angle going on there, the romantic pace got intense really quick and then the pair takes a breather for ninety days. and Tim's reasoning makes sense when he explains himself but I wish I got to read what their ninety days consisted of. I'd like to think a lot of woeful grunts and dreadful pouts and whimpers and muttering of each other's name because the pain became too much to bear.
The story doesn't get too deep. I think it could have gone further but it might be just for my greedy purposes more than for the story that is told. Because it's solid and gets the job done. Quirky, light, hopeful, scattered with snark and...sweet?
Yeah, I guess it is. ;P
A copy provided for an honest review.
Cupcake, Lori, Justin and Ann's can be read here:
My two cents from the group reviewage.
4.25 HEARTS--Quite simply this is just a romance between two people who just so happen to meet at the right time under slightly intoxicated circumstances. The rest...gender identity, relationship status, fan/hero worship...those are just semantics.
Sweet? Eh...I guess? *scrunches nose* Considering the typical stuff written by the author, this could be considered sweeter. I think it's definitely lighter with a sprinkling of hurt/comfort (very thin layer covering the prominent romantic tones). The story put me in a happy sort of mood.
The world we live in is constantly changing, right? We're becoming more politically correct and title specific each day. And while the transgender community is not new, it's still in its infancy compared to other parts of the LGBT acronym. The media continues to embrace popular trans figures and it makes me happy. A lot of everyday people are still catching up to change, embracing the rainbow. I think the story's strongest suit is the fact it embraces the main character's cluelessness about a lot of trans topics. I thought it was written tastefully, writing the story from 1st POV helped eased the vibe the author was going for...well for me anyway.
Stuart Leandro's world is crashing down. The famous actor fell off the wagon and is embarrassingly drunk. He gets saved by a well meaning passerby before any fans take any compromising photos. Stuart's estranged wife has finally tapped the final nail in the coffin, his career is sort of in the toilet. Suffice to say, it's just not Stuart's day. Or maybe it is. He's saved by Tim who he confuses to be a man and then a woman and then he sort of puts his foot in his mouth. But once Tim lets him know it's okay and they get to know each other, there is an attraction that they can't deny. This is Stuart's first gay experience and he handles it as best he can. Namely with questions and coming a few times.
There was a sense of humor and snark:
"You want to know if I have a penis?"
"Yeah."
"I do! I was, however, unfortunately born without it, and seeing as what science can offer really, and I mean really, doesn't appeal to me, I'm forced to keep it in the top drawer of the bedside table. Why? Do you want to see it?"
Plus it had the wish fulfillment factor, a cinephile's wet dream: getting to meet their favorite actor and really getting to share their passion and interests. And if they happen to fall for one another on a more intimate level,it doesn't hurt either.
Now, since it has the wish fulfillment angle going on there, the romantic pace got intense really quick and then the pair takes a breather for ninety days. and Tim's reasoning makes sense when he explains himself but I wish I got to read what their ninety days consisted of. I'd like to think a lot of woeful grunts and dreadful pouts and whimpers and muttering of each other's name because the pain became too much to bear.
The story doesn't get too deep. I think it could have gone further but it might be just for my greedy purposes more than for the story that is told. Because it's solid and gets the job done. Quirky, light, hopeful, scattered with snark and...sweet?
Yeah, I guess it is. ;P
A copy provided for an honest review.
January 9, 2017
4.5 stars! Loved this, but I wanted MORE!
I think Bey Deckard killed this one. I usually stay away from this author's work because it is too dark for me, but The Complications of T wasn't dark at all. In fact, I'd go so far as to say it's light.
I've read many, many books with trans MCs, and this one was my favorite. It was a beautiful story, even if it veered towards instalove, and it was informative and interesting without being preachy or feeling too didactic. It was the perfect balance, and I adored it.
I've never read a book with a transman MC who wasn't on testosterone, and I was fascinated by that element of the story. I also loved the fact that Stuart hadn't ever been with a guy before, but it didn't feel like he was into Tim as a novelty or as a fetish. It felt right, and done for the glorious reasons of loving the person and being attracted to Tim's male package, whatever the form. The author did a great job with all of those tricky details.
Best of all, I felt the chemistry between the two MCs and their mutual pain and pressures. Sure, there were some sticky details of and a rushed, abrupt ending, but I was willing to look past all of that.
If Bey Deckard writes more books like this one, count me in!!
I think Bey Deckard killed this one. I usually stay away from this author's work because it is too dark for me, but The Complications of T wasn't dark at all. In fact, I'd go so far as to say it's light.
I've read many, many books with trans MCs, and this one was my favorite. It was a beautiful story, even if it veered towards instalove, and it was informative and interesting without being preachy or feeling too didactic. It was the perfect balance, and I adored it.
I've never read a book with a transman MC who wasn't on testosterone, and I was fascinated by that element of the story. I also loved the fact that Stuart hadn't ever been with a guy before, but it didn't feel like he was into Tim as a novelty or as a fetish. It felt right, and done for the glorious reasons of loving the person and being attracted to Tim's male package, whatever the form. The author did a great job with all of those tricky details.
Best of all, I felt the chemistry between the two MCs and their mutual pain and pressures. Sure, there were some sticky details of and a rushed, abrupt ending, but I was willing to look past all of that.
If Bey Deckard writes more books like this one, count me in!!
Read
February 9, 2017Feb 1, 2017: Audiobook narrated by Nick J. Russo now available! -> http://geni.us/TCoTAB
--
This book is a bit of a departure from my norm (though what is my norm... really?).
It's sweet—which is not to say what I've written before isn't sweet—but this story is sweet in a more traditional sense.
It's also very light on sex, just one scene. No BDSM. No power struggles. It features female anatomy (just a little heads up for those who are sensitive to that sort of thing).
And it's a contemporary book—my first one.
I consider it a reaction on my part to the other book I'm currently writing. It seems that I needed a little break from the darkness... so I wrote something about hope.
--
This book is a bit of a departure from my norm (though what is my norm... really?).
It's sweet—which is not to say what I've written before isn't sweet—but this story is sweet in a more traditional sense.
It's also very light on sex, just one scene. No BDSM. No power struggles. It features female anatomy (just a little heads up for those who are sensitive to that sort of thing).
And it's a contemporary book—my first one.
I consider it a reaction on my part to the other book I'm currently writing. It seems that I needed a little break from the darkness... so I wrote something about hope.
August 26, 2015
There's not just one trans story. There's not just one trans experience.
-Laverne Cox
I've been on sort of a trans vision quest lately, trying to lessen some of my idiocy on the subject, so this story came along at just the right time. It's filled with powerful and fluid dialogue that's both educational and moving. It's also sweet without being fluffy and gave me squishy good feels.
Stuart is a bonafide movie star who's in the midst of a separation/divorce and tries to drown his sorrows in the bottle at a bar. I'm not sure how he didn't get noticed until he's curbside considering a brief and cool concrete respite when Tim comes to his rescue and gives him a bed in his spacious warehouse. Tim is transgendered and hasn't had bottom surgery, though there is just one sex scene that's not overly explicit.
Two things niggle at Stuart's drunken brain: (a) Tim sounds familiar and (b) Tim looks like a she? Turns out Tim is none other than a well known movie critic who as lambasted several of Stuart's films. Awkward.
BeyBey has put together an endearing tale of self-discovery, open mindedness and finding love in the unlikeliest of places without delving into the dreaded instalove. I would've liked more page time between them that showed their relationship progression, but what is there is golden, so maybe I'm just a hedonist. I was also firmly in Camp Stuart on the 3 month radio silence gambit. A romantic notion to be sure but not pragmatic, in my opinion, especially for two people who've "known" one another for 5 days.
Still, a most enjoyable, quick and enlightening read from one of my favorite authors and highly recommended. I would be delighted to read more about these two if he were so inclined to turn this into a series.
Bonus points for the sneaky Millennium Falcon tattoo.
Reviewed for BMBR with the other eloquent Unicorns whose reviews can be seen on the blog!
An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
-Laverne Cox
I've been on sort of a trans vision quest lately, trying to lessen some of my idiocy on the subject, so this story came along at just the right time. It's filled with powerful and fluid dialogue that's both educational and moving. It's also sweet without being fluffy and gave me squishy good feels.
Stuart is a bonafide movie star who's in the midst of a separation/divorce and tries to drown his sorrows in the bottle at a bar. I'm not sure how he didn't get noticed until he's curbside considering a brief and cool concrete respite when Tim comes to his rescue and gives him a bed in his spacious warehouse. Tim is transgendered and hasn't had bottom surgery, though there is just one sex scene that's not overly explicit.
Two things niggle at Stuart's drunken brain: (a) Tim sounds familiar and (b) Tim looks like a she? Turns out Tim is none other than a well known movie critic who as lambasted several of Stuart's films. Awkward.
BeyBey has put together an endearing tale of self-discovery, open mindedness and finding love in the unlikeliest of places without delving into the dreaded instalove. I would've liked more page time between them that showed their relationship progression, but what is there is golden, so maybe I'm just a hedonist. I was also firmly in Camp Stuart on the 3 month radio silence gambit. A romantic notion to be sure but not pragmatic, in my opinion, especially for two people who've "known" one another for 5 days.
Still, a most enjoyable, quick and enlightening read from one of my favorite authors and highly recommended. I would be delighted to read more about these two if he were so inclined to turn this into a series.
Bonus points for the sneaky Millennium Falcon tattoo.
Reviewed for BMBR with the other eloquent Unicorns whose reviews can be seen on the blog!
An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 9, 2016
It was ok, I guess. I expected so much more, though.
It gives an interesting insight of what a transgender person's daily life can be. It's not a gay story, not even a gay-for-you. It's rather an only-for-you romance.
The MC, Stuart, is into girls, and always has been. One night he's in a bar in the process of intoxicating himself, and a woman saves him. A woman whose name is Tim. Stuart sees him as a woman, and feels an instant attraction. But he is not a woman. Stuart comes to terms with this and pushes the labels aside. He falls in love with the person, not the genre.
I have no problem with that.
But it left me cold. I couldn't revel in the feelz, I couldn't feel as close to the characters as I would have liked. There is nothing quite tangible I can blame the fail for, but it obviously wasn't written for me, as I wasn't able to get into the characters' skin. I felt detached, as if watching a chain of events from a distance, which is a pity, because I was dazzled by both the Caged and the F.I.S.T.S. series.
It gives an interesting insight of what a transgender person's daily life can be. It's not a gay story, not even a gay-for-you. It's rather an only-for-you romance.
The MC, Stuart, is into girls, and always has been. One night he's in a bar in the process of intoxicating himself, and a woman saves him. A woman whose name is Tim. Stuart sees him as a woman, and feels an instant attraction. But he is not a woman. Stuart comes to terms with this and pushes the labels aside. He falls in love with the person, not the genre.
I have no problem with that.
But it left me cold. I couldn't revel in the feelz, I couldn't feel as close to the characters as I would have liked. There is nothing quite tangible I can blame the fail for, but it obviously wasn't written for me, as I wasn't able to get into the characters' skin. I felt detached, as if watching a chain of events from a distance, which is a pity, because I was dazzled by both the Caged and the F.I.S.T.S. series.
August 3, 2016
Loved it, but I wanted more!
I thought I wanted to see everything else, too- the reactions from other people, Stuart and Tim facing any conflict that came up, but this was such a sweet peek into their lives, I'm also kind of glad there wasn't more to distract from the simplicity of it.
A follow up wouldn't be amiss, though :)
I thought I wanted to see everything else, too- the reactions from other people, Stuart and Tim facing any conflict that came up, but this was such a sweet peek into their lives, I'm also kind of glad there wasn't more to distract from the simplicity of it.
A follow up wouldn't be amiss, though :)
August 26, 2015
4.5...but only because I wanted more! Review previously at bmbr.
Oh how I wish this wasn't a short story because I wanted more. I sat down with my morning coffee and devoured this offering from Bey Deckard. The Complications of T is about as different from his Baal's Heart series as you can get - except I adored it every bit as much.
If I could have one wish about this story... actually, make that two wishes, firstly I'd want it to be longer and secondly I'd want the insta love angle dropped. In fact, I wouldn't have cared about the insta attraction at all if it hadn't been that Stuart was drunk and disorderly when we (and Tim) first meet him because his wife wanted a divorce. So, it wasn't the attraction that felt too quick, but it made me feel like Stuart was a bit flakey. A longer story would have solved this with a slower on page romance development.
Actually, as I analyse this story while I write my review, I want to pick the whole timing aspect of it apart. I get instant horniness and sex and attraction, but a week together, then three months totally away from each other, no contact at all and then that's it big decisions made forever. Logically I don't like it.
Emotionally though - I loved this book. I loved Stuart and Tim. I loved their interactions. I loved Tim's honesty. I loved the fact that an f-m trans character didn't need to be super butch to be male. I loved the sexy times. I loved Stuart's acceptance of Tim and of his feelings for Tim. I loved the writing and descriptions and how it made me feel. I'm an emotional reader and that is why this gets 4.5 hearts from me. Logic v emotion in the book stakes, and emotion wins hands down.
ETA: So, I've just read my girl SRAL's review and I'm stealing the opener...
Quite simply this is just a romance between two people who just so happen to meet at the right time under slightly intoxicated circumstances. The rest...gender identity, relationship status, fan/hero worship...those are just semantics.
Pretty much this is why I loved this story. SO go read the other unicorns' reviews, they say it better than me.
a copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
Oh how I wish this wasn't a short story because I wanted more. I sat down with my morning coffee and devoured this offering from Bey Deckard. The Complications of T is about as different from his Baal's Heart series as you can get - except I adored it every bit as much.
If I could have one wish about this story... actually, make that two wishes, firstly I'd want it to be longer and secondly I'd want the insta love angle dropped. In fact, I wouldn't have cared about the insta attraction at all if it hadn't been that Stuart was drunk and disorderly when we (and Tim) first meet him because his wife wanted a divorce. So, it wasn't the attraction that felt too quick, but it made me feel like Stuart was a bit flakey. A longer story would have solved this with a slower on page romance development.
Actually, as I analyse this story while I write my review, I want to pick the whole timing aspect of it apart. I get instant horniness and sex and attraction, but a week together, then three months totally away from each other, no contact at all and then that's it big decisions made forever. Logically I don't like it.
Emotionally though - I loved this book. I loved Stuart and Tim. I loved their interactions. I loved Tim's honesty. I loved the fact that an f-m trans character didn't need to be super butch to be male. I loved the sexy times. I loved Stuart's acceptance of Tim and of his feelings for Tim. I loved the writing and descriptions and how it made me feel. I'm an emotional reader and that is why this gets 4.5 hearts from me. Logic v emotion in the book stakes, and emotion wins hands down.
ETA: So, I've just read my girl SRAL's review and I'm stealing the opener...
Quite simply this is just a romance between two people who just so happen to meet at the right time under slightly intoxicated circumstances. The rest...gender identity, relationship status, fan/hero worship...those are just semantics.
Pretty much this is why I loved this story. SO go read the other unicorns' reviews, they say it better than me.
a copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
September 4, 2015
That was an absolutely lovely story. I actually had that description going through my head while reading it when Stuart said, “’That would be lovely. Really . . lovely.’ Go on Stu. Say lovely again.” Stu was so charming in his clueless ness. Now if someone told me after reading the Baal’s Heart trilogy that Bey would give us a book that would make me sigh and swoon from the sheer loveliness of it I would have snortled in their face. I’m a HUGE fan of that series and the fact that the author can then give us this as well speaks to the range of his talent.
I think what I appreciated most was how he knows how to trust his own words. This is a short story with a big impact and many salient points. The downfall of a lot of shorts that try to cover big topics is that many end up beating a point into the ground and the whole idea loses its impact with the repetition. Bey knows how to write a sentence or convey a thought and then leave it there for me to digest. It shows respect for me as the reader and trust in his own words as a writer. That’s a tough balance and he achieved it here.
Tim and Stuart are great couple characters both together and apart. Tim’s experiences have made him very wise and Stuart is smart enough to know a good thing when it comes his way and not to be a stubborn idiot about what it all “means”. Sometimes things just are and overthinking them will guarantee a failure. As Tim says, “If it works for you, it works for me. The trick is not to overthink it.” Such simple and sage advice.
Of course I would love more, but that’s just me being a selfish reader.
I think what I appreciated most was how he knows how to trust his own words. This is a short story with a big impact and many salient points. The downfall of a lot of shorts that try to cover big topics is that many end up beating a point into the ground and the whole idea loses its impact with the repetition. Bey knows how to write a sentence or convey a thought and then leave it there for me to digest. It shows respect for me as the reader and trust in his own words as a writer. That’s a tough balance and he achieved it here.
Tim and Stuart are great couple characters both together and apart. Tim’s experiences have made him very wise and Stuart is smart enough to know a good thing when it comes his way and not to be a stubborn idiot about what it all “means”. Sometimes things just are and overthinking them will guarantee a failure. As Tim says, “If it works for you, it works for me. The trick is not to overthink it.” Such simple and sage advice.
Of course I would love more, but that’s just me being a selfish reader.
January 25, 2024
This was the first I haven't liked in my tries from this author. It had potential, but no real conflict, and the pacing didn't work as a short. Too insta, felt forced rather than developed. A case of a whole romance arc trying to fit into a short, instead of a slice of story just right for the length.
But I have to admit, that cover is doing it for me.
But I have to admit, that cover is doing it for me.
November 18, 2023
Wonderful novella 🩵
August 28, 2015
4.25 stars
This book was very hard for me to rate. It was way out of my comfort zone and not something I would normally read. On one hand I loved it and wanted to give it all the stars. I loved the writing, I loved the story and I loved Stuart and Tim, the main characters. I didn’t have a problem with the relationship between the MCs starting before Stuart was legally divorced and surprisingly, I didn’t have a problem with the female anatomy in the story. Tim, a transsexual, considered himself fully transitioned yet with the lack of options available to him, he still had a vagina. This was certainly leaning in the insta-love direction but there was no mention of soul mates or professions of love so I was happy with the relationship as it was written.
So what was my minor beef with this story? I think it was the missed opportunity. It was a very good romance, but I feel like it could have been EPIC! All the making were there. The setup and how the MCs met was unique and interesting. The chemistry between the main characters was there in droves. Add in the transsexual aspect of this story and you’ve got the potential to knock it out of the park and claim a spot on the "Best Romances of 2015" list. If this story had gone a little deeper, the characters and the relationship fleshed out a little more, it would have been on my 'best of 2015' list for sure. Unfortunately, for me, it was very good but not quite spectacular. And I really wanted it to be spectacular!
Let me end on a positive note. This book is really good. I think it would appeal to most any romance reader. Don't let the female anatomy bit scare you even if that's not normally something you're comfortable with. I was very skeptical too, but Mr. Deckard showed me what's important in a relationship. It's not so much the bodies, it's the two hearts that really count.
This book was very hard for me to rate. It was way out of my comfort zone and not something I would normally read. On one hand I loved it and wanted to give it all the stars. I loved the writing, I loved the story and I loved Stuart and Tim, the main characters. I didn’t have a problem with the relationship between the MCs starting before Stuart was legally divorced and surprisingly, I didn’t have a problem with the female anatomy in the story. Tim, a transsexual, considered himself fully transitioned yet with the lack of options available to him, he still had a vagina. This was certainly leaning in the insta-love direction but there was no mention of soul mates or professions of love so I was happy with the relationship as it was written.
So what was my minor beef with this story? I think it was the missed opportunity. It was a very good romance, but I feel like it could have been EPIC! All the making were there. The setup and how the MCs met was unique and interesting. The chemistry between the main characters was there in droves. Add in the transsexual aspect of this story and you’ve got the potential to knock it out of the park and claim a spot on the "Best Romances of 2015" list. If this story had gone a little deeper, the characters and the relationship fleshed out a little more, it would have been on my 'best of 2015' list for sure. Unfortunately, for me, it was very good but not quite spectacular. And I really wanted it to be spectacular!
Let me end on a positive note. This book is really good. I think it would appeal to most any romance reader. Don't let the female anatomy bit scare you even if that's not normally something you're comfortable with. I was very skeptical too, but Mr. Deckard showed me what's important in a relationship. It's not so much the bodies, it's the two hearts that really count.
August 30, 2015
Admittedly, this isn't a book that would usually find its way onto my 'Read' list. No, I generally go for dark, gritty, BDSM, banned, non or dub-con...well, you get the idea. This story is about as far from any of that as possible. It's sweet, and romantic, and filled with hope and positivity.
How did something so far removed from my typical interest land on my iPad? Quiet simply, the author. I've been a fan of m/m for years...before the term 'm/m' even existed, I think. (I may be showing my age there a bit. *wink*) What I've come to understand, with regard to my own reading, is it's ALL about the storytelling...can an author make me feel something? And if he/she can, then the sub-genre is of little importance. Bey Deckard makes me feel something every fucking time! Be it pirates, or space marines, or a trans love story, I feel it. And, what could be better than picking up a story from a brilliant author - who you know you're gonna love - and being completely surprised by its content?
Snatch this one up...you'll be glad you did!
Peace,
JLT
#pleasurethroughdenial
#teamstewart
JosephLanceTonlet.com
How did something so far removed from my typical interest land on my iPad? Quiet simply, the author. I've been a fan of m/m for years...before the term 'm/m' even existed, I think. (I may be showing my age there a bit. *wink*) What I've come to understand, with regard to my own reading, is it's ALL about the storytelling...can an author make me feel something? And if he/she can, then the sub-genre is of little importance. Bey Deckard makes me feel something every fucking time! Be it pirates, or space marines, or a trans love story, I feel it. And, what could be better than picking up a story from a brilliant author - who you know you're gonna love - and being completely surprised by its content?
Snatch this one up...you'll be glad you did!
Peace,
JLT
#pleasurethroughdenial
#teamstewart
JosephLanceTonlet.com
August 20, 2015
Well I wasn't sure what to expect, but for such a short read that was pretty enjoyable. I never really know how to rate short stories, as I'm not a huge fan, as I prefer the depth of background, world-building, feelings etc that come with a lengthier wordcount...but this was probably a 3. something star read for me, rounded up to 4.
I guess my only complaint is that I wanted more! An epilogue or a sequel would be very welcome :)
I guess my only complaint is that I wanted more! An epilogue or a sequel would be very welcome :)
September 10, 2015
There aren't many books around with a transsexual main character and even fewer well written ones. This one was absolutely beautiful in the way the subject was handled. Tim was used to living in seclusion away from the tabloids and gawkers. Stuart was just as secluded even though he was surrounded by people. The two men fit together perfectly. I loved the way that Tim said not to over think things. An easy, smooth read that left me feeling warm inside.
September 23, 2024
It was. I read. On to the next one
August 21, 2015
4.5 star review by The Blogger Girls.
This was a really sweet story about discovery, acceptance and love. It features a trans man as one of the MCs, which I found to be the most interesting and best part of the story. The gorgeous cover and clever title tie in to this story perfectly.
Complicated Tim is such a sweet guy who is best known for his work as a film critic. This has allowed him to keep a rather low profile, private life. When he happens to be in the right place at the time when fairly well-known actor, Stuart, is in the precarious position of a potential public career mishap, Tim steps in and helps Stuart out.
Stuart is in a rather bad place in that his career has been rather lackluster of late, his wife wants to split and he just seems really needs a break from it all. He gets that reprieve when Tim helps him and offers him a place and some time to help with his problems.
Over the week or so they spend together in Tim’s apartment, they get to know one another. Rather quickly, Stuart learns about Tim, and his open mind and caring personality allow his other feelings to grow. They fall in love rather quickly, but Tim isn’t ready to give up the life he has built for himself to just fly off to another country for some guy. They agree to a three-month split to give them time to know for sure if things are real and for Stuart to get his own life in better order.
As with all of Bey’s stories, this one sucked me right in. His ability to make me enjoy and even love stories that I normally wouldn’t look twice at says a lot about his skills as a writer and definitely makes him an auto read for me every time. Of course, I wish there was more to this story – short stories that are written well often leave me with that feeling. I wanted a bit more back story on Tim and his struggles, but overall, this was a very well-rounded tale with a wonderful happy ending that I highly recommend people give a try.
March 12, 2022
How in the actual heck does lighting strike twice????
I listened to this one shot while cooking me some dinner and I feel in love. Was it a little insta lovey.... yes but I feel like some readers don't actually understand LGBTQAI culture so they don't understand think or think these types of things don't happen....
As a person that works in the health care system for PREP (making sure ANYONE or EVERYONE has access to it)....IT Happens peridot. That's why prep is made available ect. IF You read this novel you have to have an open mind.
Anywho Ioved the novel and Nick J. RUSSO ACTED a whole fool in this novel... and I was here for it!!!!!!
I will get off my soapbox now ....however....keep in mind
You can't help who you like, want, or love.
I listened to this one shot while cooking me some dinner and I feel in love. Was it a little insta lovey.... yes but I feel like some readers don't actually understand LGBTQAI culture so they don't understand think or think these types of things don't happen....
As a person that works in the health care system for PREP (making sure ANYONE or EVERYONE has access to it)....IT Happens peridot. That's why prep is made available ect. IF You read this novel you have to have an open mind.
Anywho Ioved the novel and Nick J. RUSSO ACTED a whole fool in this novel... and I was here for it!!!!!!
I will get off my soapbox now ....however....keep in mind
You can't help who you like, want, or love.
February 2, 2017
I always want more from short stories but I felt like this was the perfect length. Though I would gladly read more about Tim and Stuart!
I loved Tim and Stuart's passion and their honest and raw conversations once they got past the awkwardness of the situation that kind of threw them together. It also didn't feel insta-lovey. They were just two people who had this awesome connection and just couldn't imagine not exploring where it would go. The HEA was the icing on top. :)
I loved Tim and Stuart's passion and their honest and raw conversations once they got past the awkwardness of the situation that kind of threw them together. It also didn't feel insta-lovey. They were just two people who had this awesome connection and just couldn't imagine not exploring where it would go. The HEA was the icing on top. :)
August 27, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Bey Deckard once again seduces readers with his writing and continues to amaze and deliver. With every book, regardless of the subject matter, he has a clear and authentic voice and provides just the perfect amount of description to achieve a full visual effect.
So much works here starting with the clever title and just one letter encapsulates so many areas of the story itself. Tim’s life has been complicated and while the story could have dwelled on that, it doesn’t. Deckard then takes a timely subject and makes it entirely accessible.
Stuart finds himself attracted to Tim, who is openly transgender, and moves on to a physical relationship with him. Stuart has only dated women in the past, but sees an opportunity and moves forward with little hesitation or stress. Stuart asks the questions that would naturally come to mind and Tim answers with honesty and humor as the author manages to add inflection to his writing that enables the characters to have a voice that comes off of the page.
With fewer words, Deckard crafts a tale of finding the one person that works for you regardless of society’s expectations. The ending could be interpreted in more than one way, but there is hope in the air and the end conversation could very well be the background music to the potential of love and a life well lived. The Complications of T is another story that is well worth the read as presented from Deckard’s capable hands.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Bey Deckard once again seduces readers with his writing and continues to amaze and deliver. With every book, regardless of the subject matter, he has a clear and authentic voice and provides just the perfect amount of description to achieve a full visual effect.
So much works here starting with the clever title and just one letter encapsulates so many areas of the story itself. Tim’s life has been complicated and while the story could have dwelled on that, it doesn’t. Deckard then takes a timely subject and makes it entirely accessible.
Stuart finds himself attracted to Tim, who is openly transgender, and moves on to a physical relationship with him. Stuart has only dated women in the past, but sees an opportunity and moves forward with little hesitation or stress. Stuart asks the questions that would naturally come to mind and Tim answers with honesty and humor as the author manages to add inflection to his writing that enables the characters to have a voice that comes off of the page.
With fewer words, Deckard crafts a tale of finding the one person that works for you regardless of society’s expectations. The ending could be interpreted in more than one way, but there is hope in the air and the end conversation could very well be the background music to the potential of love and a life well lived. The Complications of T is another story that is well worth the read as presented from Deckard’s capable hands.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 21, 2015
This was lovely... really, really lovely. *happy sigh*
I'm a huge fan of Bey Deckard's Baal's Heart series, and F.I.S.T.S. #1&2 were brilliantly done as well. The Complications of T was something completely different and just as wonderfully written. For a change, this story was just absolutely sweet! Through and through.
My 'review' isn't doing this book any justice, hopefully others will try harder. *bows*
I simply want to say: it's a beautiful story, very satisfying, especially for its length - highly recommended!
I'm a huge fan of Bey Deckard's Baal's Heart series, and F.I.S.T.S. #1&2 were brilliantly done as well. The Complications of T was something completely different and just as wonderfully written. For a change, this story was just absolutely sweet! Through and through.
My 'review' isn't doing this book any justice, hopefully others will try harder. *bows*
I simply want to say: it's a beautiful story, very satisfying, especially for its length - highly recommended!
February 3, 2020
Strong portrayal of a trans character
I’m usually a bit hesitant about books that feature being trans as the theme rather than an incidental fact about the character, but this book did a great job of making the characters real, rich, and complex while also addressing a lot of identity and body issues. As someone who is gender queer and has been in relationships with trans folks, I thought that the portrayal was appropriate and sweet.
I’m usually a bit hesitant about books that feature being trans as the theme rather than an incidental fact about the character, but this book did a great job of making the characters real, rich, and complex while also addressing a lot of identity and body issues. As someone who is gender queer and has been in relationships with trans folks, I thought that the portrayal was appropriate and sweet.
March 23, 2017
That was gorgeous, why was it sooo short! Since this author usually writes such lovely, long stories I am standing up and demanding another 400 pages asap... These characters are so interesting and I would love to read about their relationship, please Bey?
21 March 2017, I'm listening to the audio version with Nick J. Russo narrating and he is absolutely fantastic! His accent for Stuart is incredible.
21 March 2017, I'm listening to the audio version with Nick J. Russo narrating and he is absolutely fantastic! His accent for Stuart is incredible.
November 4, 2018
I like the center of this romance between Tim and Stuart.
We get an intense time of them together while Stuart hides out a bit before dealing with his impending divorce and rethinking his acting career.
However, as nice as those moments are, we don't get them together in the more complicated world and we don't get enough resolution with any of the outside factors.
So, unfinished in too many ways and I don't want a sequel to address these areas, I wanted a fuller love story here.
We get an intense time of them together while Stuart hides out a bit before dealing with his impending divorce and rethinking his acting career.
However, as nice as those moments are, we don't get them together in the more complicated world and we don't get enough resolution with any of the outside factors.
So, unfinished in too many ways and I don't want a sequel to address these areas, I wanted a fuller love story here.
March 21, 2024
3.5 stars!
This is a sweeter version of Bey Deckard's typical writing. 54 pages and a HFN. It's a cute story, give it a shot!
CW's and tags:
Trans MC, movie star/movie critic pairing, Millennium Falcon tattoo, fanboy,gender conversations, unintentional misgendering (non-malicious), alcoholism/off the wagon.
Highlights:
• Colourful tattoos covered him from smooth, flat pecs to defined abs and crept down his powerful-looking arms. Dragons, flowers, abstract shapes… the Millennium Falcon.
• It felt like we were already saying goodbye.
This is a sweeter version of Bey Deckard's typical writing. 54 pages and a HFN. It's a cute story, give it a shot!
CW's and tags:
Trans MC, movie star/movie critic pairing, Millennium Falcon tattoo, fanboy,gender conversations, unintentional misgendering (non-malicious), alcoholism/off the wagon.
Highlights:
• Colourful tattoos covered him from smooth, flat pecs to defined abs and crept down his powerful-looking arms. Dragons, flowers, abstract shapes… the Millennium Falcon.
• It felt like we were already saying goodbye.
September 26, 2015
Stuart Leandro is a movie actor who has been taking roles for money rather than art and has recently faced that his marriage is breaking up. One night on the road in a foreign country, he winds up drunk in the gutter. Lucky for him, there’s someone’s there to rescue him before his face ends up plastered all over the tabloids. But is his rescuer male or female? His drunken senses aren’t at all sure, especially after a semi-coherent kiss enters the mix.
When he wakes in a strange apartment the next day, his rescuers gender still isn’t clear. Wary of the motives of the reclusive stranger, Stuart nonetheless can't deny his curiosity or his attraction. He’s surprised when beneath the mystery, he discovers someone whose life has actually been intertwined with his own for years. But Tim White is unlike anyone Stuart has met before.
Tim's simple act of kindness soon leads the two men into one of the most intense encounters of both of their lives—but are these two very public individuals willing to weather the media storm their extraordinary relationship will cause?
This story is a bit different than what I’ve come to expect from this author; less dark, lighter and most definitely sweeter. But I enjoyed it immensely.
Stuart and Tim’s romance moved from a strong attraction to sex that sent sparks flying and quickly coalescing into insta-love. It was Stuart’s first gay experience, yet he took it very much in stride. I admired his acceptance and open-mindedness, and the hesitant but determined way he dealt with discovering Tim right alongside experiencing emotions and attractions that were new to him. The sex was light rather than detailed, which actually disappointed me since unlike other trans books I’ve read, it was clear that Tim didn’t eschew taking pleasure by using his remaining female parts.
After its breakneck start, the relationship slowed down (actually came to a rather screeching halt) at Tim’s request. And I actually liked that. I was enthralled with the hopeful direction it was heading, and then it ended.
Yep, it ended way too abruptly for my liking. I wanted to experience those absence-made-the-heart-grow-fonder moments, wanted their physical reunion right there on the page, wanted to know if the reactions of others that they’d both worried over and dreaded turned out as expected, and if so, how they handled it together. Wanted more.
Sometimes life is all about being in the right place at the right time. Tim White was there just when and where Stuart needed him to be. How he came to be there wasn’t quite clear to me. Coincidence? Or was Tim stalking his favorite actor?
Despite all those nit picks, I couldn’t rate this less than four stars, because I enjoyed Tim’s character so much. His wit, intelligence, self-assurance and strength and low angst level were perfect. And his reclusive lifestyle rang very true to me. And then there’s this:
So hell yeah, I love Tim, and really, really hope there will be a second book that’s from Tim’s point of view… just as in the F.I.S.T.S. series we got the second from Murphy’s. Please, with puppy dog eyes, can you give me that dear author?
When he wakes in a strange apartment the next day, his rescuers gender still isn’t clear. Wary of the motives of the reclusive stranger, Stuart nonetheless can't deny his curiosity or his attraction. He’s surprised when beneath the mystery, he discovers someone whose life has actually been intertwined with his own for years. But Tim White is unlike anyone Stuart has met before.
Tim's simple act of kindness soon leads the two men into one of the most intense encounters of both of their lives—but are these two very public individuals willing to weather the media storm their extraordinary relationship will cause?
This story is a bit different than what I’ve come to expect from this author; less dark, lighter and most definitely sweeter. But I enjoyed it immensely.
Stuart and Tim’s romance moved from a strong attraction to sex that sent sparks flying and quickly coalescing into insta-love. It was Stuart’s first gay experience, yet he took it very much in stride. I admired his acceptance and open-mindedness, and the hesitant but determined way he dealt with discovering Tim right alongside experiencing emotions and attractions that were new to him. The sex was light rather than detailed, which actually disappointed me since unlike other trans books I’ve read, it was clear that Tim didn’t eschew taking pleasure by using his remaining female parts.
After its breakneck start, the relationship slowed down (actually came to a rather screeching halt) at Tim’s request. And I actually liked that. I was enthralled with the hopeful direction it was heading, and then it ended.
Yep, it ended way too abruptly for my liking. I wanted to experience those absence-made-the-heart-grow-fonder moments, wanted their physical reunion right there on the page, wanted to know if the reactions of others that they’d both worried over and dreaded turned out as expected, and if so, how they handled it together. Wanted more.
Sometimes life is all about being in the right place at the right time. Tim White was there just when and where Stuart needed him to be. How he came to be there wasn’t quite clear to me. Coincidence? Or was Tim stalking his favorite actor?
Despite all those nit picks, I couldn’t rate this less than four stars, because I enjoyed Tim’s character so much. His wit, intelligence, self-assurance and strength and low angst level were perfect. And his reclusive lifestyle rang very true to me. And then there’s this:
So hell yeah, I love Tim, and really, really hope there will be a second book that’s from Tim’s point of view… just as in the F.I.S.T.S. series we got the second from Murphy’s. Please, with puppy dog eyes, can you give me that dear author?
October 7, 2015
First, I just want to say this cover is gorgeous.
Stuart is lost. Life just isn't panning out quite liked he'd hoped. When he's at a really low point, someone that he totally isn't expecting helps him reevaluate what will make him happy.
Tim is transgender, and although it's easy to focus on him, for me the story is more about Stuart. As far as I know, Stuart has only been attracted to straight women so everything is a new experience for him. Some aspects of the relationship between them were pretty new to me as well; so, I went through the learning process with him.
I'm a fairly open-minded person, but this story made me think about things that I hadn't before. I appreciate that. I also like the fact that the author stepped outside the box that I had unknowingly put him in. I can't wait to see what he comes up with next. ♡
***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***
Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents
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August 20, 2015
Original Blog Post: Happy Happy Release Day!!! Review Request: The Complications of T by Bey Deckard
Review by: multitaskingmomma
My Rating: 4 of 4 Stars
(Based on Short&Light Read Category)
Bey Deckard has this talent for giving us short reads that pack a punch. This particular one, diverges from his usual path of strong, macho men who live life with passion and BDSM leanings. This one is actually sweet, yes it is sweet, and involves a transgender for the main squeeze. Not so different from all the rest out there you say, and you may be right. The element that makes this different is the author himself who just manages to get his strength into his characters and make them unforgettable.
The Complications of T is a title that plays on two words: Tim and Transgender. Tim is a trans and had gone through a complete transition so is more sure of himself and in what he wants and needs. He wants and needs Stuart but there is a but.
Stuart is a great actor but just like a lot of actors, fall victim to the need of money rather than craft. His movies are not directed nor written well. Sound familiar? I mean, I enjoy those films that make no sense yet get my heart pumping because of the action sequences and flash, boom, bangs. Thing is, Stuart thinks he is blasted left, right and center by a certain movie reviewer. Guess who that turns out to be?
This is a novelette of sixteen thousand or so words and in this short story, we see Stuart connect with Tim and himself. In five short days, make that six, he gets to finally face facts and may just now find the courage to get over himself. What he needs is a break, from Tim, get back on the right path and cultivate his craft.
Note: ARC provided by author on the very last minute for an honest review published, hopefully, on release day. Thankfully, it's a Deckard so here it is.
Happy Release Day, Bey, and please. Send the next one over?
Soon?!
Review by: multitaskingmomma
My Rating: 4 of 4 Stars
(Based on Short&Light Read Category)
Bey Deckard has this talent for giving us short reads that pack a punch. This particular one, diverges from his usual path of strong, macho men who live life with passion and BDSM leanings. This one is actually sweet, yes it is sweet, and involves a transgender for the main squeeze. Not so different from all the rest out there you say, and you may be right. The element that makes this different is the author himself who just manages to get his strength into his characters and make them unforgettable.
The Complications of T is a title that plays on two words: Tim and Transgender. Tim is a trans and had gone through a complete transition so is more sure of himself and in what he wants and needs. He wants and needs Stuart but there is a but.
Stuart is a great actor but just like a lot of actors, fall victim to the need of money rather than craft. His movies are not directed nor written well. Sound familiar? I mean, I enjoy those films that make no sense yet get my heart pumping because of the action sequences and flash, boom, bangs. Thing is, Stuart thinks he is blasted left, right and center by a certain movie reviewer. Guess who that turns out to be?
This is a novelette of sixteen thousand or so words and in this short story, we see Stuart connect with Tim and himself. In five short days, make that six, he gets to finally face facts and may just now find the courage to get over himself. What he needs is a break, from Tim, get back on the right path and cultivate his craft.
Note: ARC provided by author on the very last minute for an honest review published, hopefully, on release day. Thankfully, it's a Deckard so here it is.
Happy Release Day, Bey, and please. Send the next one over?
Soon?!
June 3, 2017
Sweet and Lovely! Perfect lunchtime read.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this short piece. Bey Deckard created chemistry between the two men, and got a lot of mileage out of 80 pages. Although not insta-love, since love isn't mentioned, one of the men decides to move across the ocean for the other. I'm not sure what that's called.
I thought the characters were not your standard run of the mill ones and were refreshing in their honesty.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this short piece. Bey Deckard created chemistry between the two men, and got a lot of mileage out of 80 pages. Although not insta-love, since love isn't mentioned, one of the men decides to move across the ocean for the other. I'm not sure what that's called.
I thought the characters were not your standard run of the mill ones and were refreshing in their honesty.
November 24, 2016
I feel like I read a completely different book than everyone else. I felt Zero connection between these two, didn't understand the 90 day thing (but hey, it gave Stuart time to officially ditch his wife) and couldn't believe they found love in 5 days.
February 16, 2021
Why didn’t I realise this was a novella? 🥺 Really need Tim and Stu’s full story...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews