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Self-Discovery #1
Your Biggest Fan
Truman Durant has two painful secrets. One keeps him in the closet and the other hangs inside his closet. Letting either out like the worst thing he could ever do. But then he met Stasi Manolis, a pushy Greek with his sights set on winning Truman’s trust. Could giving up his secrets and maybe falling in love really be so bad?
150 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2012
4 people are currently reading
412 people want to read
About the author
Missy Welsh
39 books336 followersMissy Welsh stares into space a lot, has conversations with cats, takes notes while people-watching, records conversations (not the ones with cats), named her laptop Norbert and her phone Pushkin, has backups of her backups’ backups, faints at the sight of a misused semi-colon, and will often ask socially unacceptable questions of strangers. Basically, she’s a writer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
September 23, 2012
Truman, a college student living in a jock frat house, wishes the secret he was hiding was as simple as being gay. Truman's not only gay, he's a cross-dresser. Being gay, maybe that's forgivable, but Truman hates himself for his "freakish" cross-dressing. He's also got some history that makes him hate himself even more -- a "relationship" that tore his small town apart with scandal.
At the start of this book Truman is engaging in some incredibly reckless risk-taking behaviour: rough sex with strangers in hotels. He hates them, he hates himself, and he hates the compulsion that keeps him going back for more.
Then there's Stasi. Stasi is adorable, BTW. He's a good Greek boy, he's out, and he's proud. He's also got the hots for Truman, who he initially thinks is straight, then curious, then maybe on the same page as Stasi after all.
Stasi's reaction to Truman's secret: awwww And then phwoar.
This was a sweet romance between the boys, with the conflict coming from a few asshole jocks in Truman's frat house. When Truman is outed, not just as gay but as a cross-dresser, it is really awful.
Dammit, how come I can't hug characters in books? Or, more importantly, get in there and kick in some heads?
The ending was sweet and hopeful. Maybe too perfectly resolved? For the record, I'm glad this had the ending it did. I hope that the real world will catch up soon.
At the start of this book Truman is engaging in some incredibly reckless risk-taking behaviour: rough sex with strangers in hotels. He hates them, he hates himself, and he hates the compulsion that keeps him going back for more.
Then there's Stasi. Stasi is adorable, BTW. He's a good Greek boy, he's out, and he's proud. He's also got the hots for Truman, who he initially thinks is straight, then curious, then maybe on the same page as Stasi after all.
Stasi's reaction to Truman's secret: awwww And then phwoar.
This was a sweet romance between the boys, with the conflict coming from a few asshole jocks in Truman's frat house. When Truman is outed, not just as gay but as a cross-dresser, it is really awful.
Dammit, how come I can't hug characters in books? Or, more importantly, get in there and kick in some heads?
The ending was sweet and hopeful. Maybe too perfectly resolved? For the record, I'm glad this had the ending it did. I hope that the real world will catch up soon.
February 7, 2018
4.5 Stars
O.M.G I loved everything about this book.
From the closeted nerd living in a (seemingly) homophobic frat house, to the way Truman slowly but surely became more comfortable in his own skin - due to Stasi's encouragement and appreciation - I loved how the plot progressed.
Okay, honestly my adoration was mostly about all the sexy menz lingerie...not even gonna lie.
But still, what I found really interesting is how distinct the MCs' voices were. It seems like with alternating POV stories that, for the most part, it's hard to differentiate which character is speaking/thinking unless the section has a header/title or a concerted effort has been made to include who is saying what to whom so you know who's POV it is. Considering there is no audiobook and a talented narrator to change the voices, I adored how I could always tell when it was Stasi's POV. ALWAYS.
Major props for giving us that Kinky Scientist sex scene, too. When the role-play/costume was mentioned earlier in the book I almost fainted from the mental image so I really loved seeing it play out. Also, #Points! for having an unapologetically hairy baby-bear MC.
I haven't read a lot of her stories but I'm finding that I definitely like Missy's writing style.
O.M.G I loved everything about this book.
From the closeted nerd living in a (seemingly) homophobic frat house, to the way Truman slowly but surely became more comfortable in his own skin - due to Stasi's encouragement and appreciation - I loved how the plot progressed.
Okay, honestly my adoration was mostly about all the sexy menz lingerie...not even gonna lie.
But still, what I found really interesting is how distinct the MCs' voices were. It seems like with alternating POV stories that, for the most part, it's hard to differentiate which character is speaking/thinking unless the section has a header/title or a concerted effort has been made to include who is saying what to whom so you know who's POV it is. Considering there is no audiobook and a talented narrator to change the voices, I adored how I could always tell when it was Stasi's POV. ALWAYS.
Major props for giving us that Kinky Scientist sex scene, too. When the role-play/costume was mentioned earlier in the book I almost fainted from the mental image so I really loved seeing it play out. Also, #Points! for having an unapologetically hairy baby-bear MC.
I haven't read a lot of her stories but I'm finding that I definitely like Missy's writing style.
January 7, 2013
"Hello, brand new kink!"
Loved this book!! It was sweet. It was kinky. It hit all my right buttons.
Loved this line:
4.5 stars because the resolution was a bit too easy
Loved this book!! It was sweet. It was kinky. It hit all my right buttons.
Loved this line:
"You ever fellate a piece of food in front of me again, I don't care where we are, Truman, I'm hauling you across the table and tongue-fucking your mouth just like this."
4.5 stars because the resolution was a bit too easy
September 21, 2012
3.5 stars. A very good story about a cross dressing college student who finally finds the acceptance he's been seeking. I liked the physical contrast between Truman, lithe and blond, and Stasi, dark, hairy, and muscular. The sex scenes were great (there's one near the end that was endearingly realistic). I'm a little uneasy about how quickly Truman's problems were resolved, though. He had been engaging in compulsive, borderline abusive sex with strangers, and I'm not sure you just recover from that sort of thing without a lot of counseling.
December 13, 2012
Have you ever wanted to reach into the book your reading and want to give a character a hug so bad you could barely stand it? Well, I’ve read many books and I’ve read about a lot of heroes, but there have been a select few I’ve wanted to actually do that. In Your Biggest Fan by Missy Welsh, I found myself exactly in that position. Watching Truman go through his warring emotions as he tried to hide the man he really is, was a roller-coaster ride of angst, excitement and serenity that I found myself wishing would never end.
Truman is a popular, baseball playing jock that lives with many skeletons in his closet. Not only is he gay, but he loves to occasionally dress up in women’s apparel. Both of these things that he loves and needs in his life, makes him feel ashamed of his cravings and forces him to live a lie to his friends. It pushes him into making unhealthy choices and into potentially dangerous situations when he allows himself to give into his need to be himself. Truman is petrified of being caught, and when he meets the very charismatic and sexy Greek, Stasi, he’s conflicted and frightened by his attraction to him.
But, Stasi is stubborn. Once he sets his eyes on Truman he’s bound and determined to have him. Stasi has a feeling that Truman is firmly in the closet and hiding a few secrets, but has no idea how deep in the closet and how much Truman really does hide from the world. Once he’s finally able to see Truman for the man he really is, Stasi becomes even more enchanted by him and accepts Truman AND all of his desires, giving Truman the greatest gifts of all…love and acceptance.
I LOVED this book! Both Truman and Stasi were heroes that lived and breathed off of the written page. Ms. Welsh is known for writing well-written, humanly flawed and very likeable men and in my opinion; she knocked it out of the ballpark with this one. I found myself becoming emotionally involved with both heroes and quickly rallied behind them finding their way to their own much deserved happy ending.
Your Biggest Fan is a beautifully written romance that kept this reader on the edge of her seat throughout the entire story. I loved the ups and downs both Truman and Stasi go through and cheered when Truman is finally able to be himself in the end. I know I’m anxiously waiting for the next book in the series and hope it’ll be released soon! If you are looking for a well-written, lovely and romantic story with amazing heroes and a strong plotline, then Your Biggest Fan by Missy Welsh is definitely the book for you! Highly Recommended!
Reviewed By: Gabbi
Truman is a popular, baseball playing jock that lives with many skeletons in his closet. Not only is he gay, but he loves to occasionally dress up in women’s apparel. Both of these things that he loves and needs in his life, makes him feel ashamed of his cravings and forces him to live a lie to his friends. It pushes him into making unhealthy choices and into potentially dangerous situations when he allows himself to give into his need to be himself. Truman is petrified of being caught, and when he meets the very charismatic and sexy Greek, Stasi, he’s conflicted and frightened by his attraction to him.
But, Stasi is stubborn. Once he sets his eyes on Truman he’s bound and determined to have him. Stasi has a feeling that Truman is firmly in the closet and hiding a few secrets, but has no idea how deep in the closet and how much Truman really does hide from the world. Once he’s finally able to see Truman for the man he really is, Stasi becomes even more enchanted by him and accepts Truman AND all of his desires, giving Truman the greatest gifts of all…love and acceptance.
I LOVED this book! Both Truman and Stasi were heroes that lived and breathed off of the written page. Ms. Welsh is known for writing well-written, humanly flawed and very likeable men and in my opinion; she knocked it out of the ballpark with this one. I found myself becoming emotionally involved with both heroes and quickly rallied behind them finding their way to their own much deserved happy ending.
Your Biggest Fan is a beautifully written romance that kept this reader on the edge of her seat throughout the entire story. I loved the ups and downs both Truman and Stasi go through and cheered when Truman is finally able to be himself in the end. I know I’m anxiously waiting for the next book in the series and hope it’ll be released soon! If you are looking for a well-written, lovely and romantic story with amazing heroes and a strong plotline, then Your Biggest Fan by Missy Welsh is definitely the book for you! Highly Recommended!
Reviewed By: Gabbi
January 18, 2018
Missy Welsh pens a well written New Adult romance. This love story is a lot about showing how you are, as complex as that may be, and being vulnerable and becoming more of your self.
Stasi is a great hero in pursuit of Truman and they have great chemistry and banter. Truman really blooms in this book.
I like the setting and the secondary characters too. The next book in the series is equally as good.
Can't wait for another one!
Stasi is a great hero in pursuit of Truman and they have great chemistry and banter. Truman really blooms in this book.
I like the setting and the secondary characters too. The next book in the series is equally as good.
Can't wait for another one!
not-deserve-my-time-my-money
July 26, 2018
December 16, 2012
This review was originally written for The Romance Reviews and can also be found there.
Two opposites falling in love is always attractive, but still, I haven't read something this good in a while.
Truman is a closet case, and one who takes it to the extreme. He has a scandal in his past, where his private life was exposed to the world, and everyone abandoned him, including his family. For someone as young as him, it took a while to bounce back, and while he might no longer be living in his truck and is able to function around others with little issue, what the incident left behind is the deep fear of others knowing his secrets.
It would be a little ordinary now to limit his secret just to being gay, after all his, panic is tremendous and at times it will really break your heart. His other secret really rubbed my kink and after finding that out, it wasn't really a matter of if I'm-going-to-like-the-books but just how much.
Stasi is proud, Greek and gay, living in a gay fraternity. He is easy going, positive and smitten when it comes to the pretty jock Truman. He pushes even when he thinks he shouldn't and chases after Truman even when Truman insists on running. Because the desire is there, in the way Truman responds, looks and moans, but Stasi needs to help him overcome his fear. It all takes a twist for the better, once Stasi stumbles, or stalks as it were, on Truman's secrets and the two make the best of it.
More than anything else, this book made me feel good. I love contemporary, but add a kink, a great relationship, some humor and amazing characters, and you can't avoid a winner. This was one of those books, that made me tear up on occasion, laugh out loud more than once and read it all in one go while not once wanting it to end.
It's been some time since I gave a five star rating but this book definitely deserved it. Truman and Stasi are not characters you would want to miss.
Two opposites falling in love is always attractive, but still, I haven't read something this good in a while.
Truman is a closet case, and one who takes it to the extreme. He has a scandal in his past, where his private life was exposed to the world, and everyone abandoned him, including his family. For someone as young as him, it took a while to bounce back, and while he might no longer be living in his truck and is able to function around others with little issue, what the incident left behind is the deep fear of others knowing his secrets.
It would be a little ordinary now to limit his secret just to being gay, after all his, panic is tremendous and at times it will really break your heart. His other secret really rubbed my kink and after finding that out, it wasn't really a matter of if I'm-going-to-like-the-books but just how much.
Stasi is proud, Greek and gay, living in a gay fraternity. He is easy going, positive and smitten when it comes to the pretty jock Truman. He pushes even when he thinks he shouldn't and chases after Truman even when Truman insists on running. Because the desire is there, in the way Truman responds, looks and moans, but Stasi needs to help him overcome his fear. It all takes a twist for the better, once Stasi stumbles, or stalks as it were, on Truman's secrets and the two make the best of it.
More than anything else, this book made me feel good. I love contemporary, but add a kink, a great relationship, some humor and amazing characters, and you can't avoid a winner. This was one of those books, that made me tear up on occasion, laugh out loud more than once and read it all in one go while not once wanting it to end.
It's been some time since I gave a five star rating but this book definitely deserved it. Truman and Stasi are not characters you would want to miss.
October 14, 2012
3.65*
Truman is gay, but because of a horrid and imo abusive relationship that led to him being kicked out and alienated by everyone in his hometown , he is very afraid of coming out.
Add to that he likes to crossdress and is in the habit of picking up guys on the Internet which is not only dangerous but also leaves him feeling even worse.
Enter Stasi the big Greek bear , who to be honest is a lovable guy, but does behave a bit stalkerish.
They start a clandestine relationship which scares Truman but also starts giving him a stronger selfworth and opens his eyes to things and people around him, since he had been living in a constant state of fear before and never took notice of a lot of things going on around him.
There is of course a baddie and he was promptly dealt with.
All in all despite the outset of Truman's situation it is actuall a light hearted sweet read.
Truman is gay, but because of a horrid and imo abusive relationship that led to him being kicked out and alienated by everyone in his hometown , he is very afraid of coming out.
Add to that he likes to crossdress and is in the habit of picking up guys on the Internet which is not only dangerous but also leaves him feeling even worse.
Enter Stasi the big Greek bear , who to be honest is a lovable guy, but does behave a bit stalkerish.
They start a clandestine relationship which scares Truman but also starts giving him a stronger selfworth and opens his eyes to things and people around him, since he had been living in a constant state of fear before and never took notice of a lot of things going on around him.
There is of course a baddie and he was promptly dealt with.
All in all despite the outset of Truman's situation it is actuall a light hearted sweet read.
November 18, 2012
3.5
Truman ripped out my heart in the first chapter. So much angst. I felt so horrible for this young man who felt he had to basically make himself invisible to be who he wanted to be and the anonymous hotel hook-ups were pretty horrible.
I really enjoyed Stasi's influence on his attitude but Stasi, while a pretty wonderful character in his own right gave me a few issues. Mostly with this line: Yeah, maybe amusing...but actually a bit of not amusing. There was definitely more of a stalkerish element to him than I was okay with but he was an incredibly caring individual so I tried to see it as more of a helpful protective thing.
There was a bit of over the top drama with one of the other frat brothers and I really enjoyed Jack and Tru's roommates. Once we got to the reveal with Tru and Stasi things progressed quite sweetly and this was a pretty gentle romance. I really enjoyed it. Engaging MC's, strong secondary characters, and a cute romance. I'll definitely check out the next in the series.
Truman ripped out my heart in the first chapter. So much angst. I felt so horrible for this young man who felt he had to basically make himself invisible to be who he wanted to be and the anonymous hotel hook-ups were pretty horrible.
I really enjoyed Stasi's influence on his attitude but Stasi, while a pretty wonderful character in his own right gave me a few issues. Mostly with this line: Yeah, maybe amusing...but actually a bit of not amusing. There was definitely more of a stalkerish element to him than I was okay with but he was an incredibly caring individual so I tried to see it as more of a helpful protective thing.
There was a bit of over the top drama with one of the other frat brothers and I really enjoyed Jack and Tru's roommates. Once we got to the reveal with Tru and Stasi things progressed quite sweetly and this was a pretty gentle romance. I really enjoyed it. Engaging MC's, strong secondary characters, and a cute romance. I'll definitely check out the next in the series.
November 29, 2012
The "sweet" and "adorable" was too much for me. Plus I don't like hairy guys (and hairy asses :-().
There was one more thing that I don't hold against the book, because the author probably didn't know, but 'Stasi' was German police force in communist times and I couldn't forgot the fact while reading.
There was one more thing that I don't hold against the book, because the author probably didn't know, but 'Stasi' was German police force in communist times and I couldn't forgot the fact while reading.
September 19, 2012
First chapter completely sucked me in and broke my heart. This was a really sweet story about acceptance.
December 22, 2012
This review was originally published on my blog Joyfully Jay
Truman Durant has two secrets that haunt him and keep him in constant fear of discovery. First, he is gay. And second, he likes to occasionally wear women’s clothes. And Truman fiercely protects these secrets, terrified of what might happen if his baseball teammates and fraternity brothers find out. He desperately needs his athletic and academic scholarships to not only keep him in school, but also provide a home in the fraternity house. He worries if anyone learns the truth, especially about the cross dressing, he will be forced off the team and find himself unable to afford school and end up homeless once again.
Stassi Manolis is out and proud and a member of the school’s gay fraternity. He is hot for Truman and definitely wants him. At first Stassi doesn’t even realize Truman is gay, but once he senses his interest is returned, Stassi starts a full out pursuit. The problem is Truman is terrified of his secrets being uncovered and does his best to avoid Stassi, despite a growing attraction. But much to his suprise, when Stassi does discover Truman’s cross dressing, he is not only fine with it, but finds it a total turn on as well. Truman can hardly believe his luck to find a man who cares for him and is attracted all parts of him. But even as the relationship develops between Truman and Stassi, fears about others finding out his secrets continue to haunt Truman. Will Truman ever be able to be open about who he really is? Or will he have to continue to live life in the closet to protect himself?
Oh I so loved this one you guys! First off, I loved seeing Truman’s progression from scared and introverted, always worried about his secrets and closing himself off to everyone, to someone happy and in love and gaining self confidence. Before Stassi comes along, Truman’s sole focus is protecting his secrets and staying out of the spotlight. A crushing betrayal in his past has made it clear to him that no one will accept him if they find out he likes to wear women’s clothes. And even as he hates himself for it, he can’t stop. So Truman walls himself off to protect himself from future hurts and just tries to keep his head down. So Truman is truly astonished that Stassi not only accepts him for who he is, but is attracted to all parts of him. I loved seeing that light come into Truman’s eyes as he realizes he can be himself with Stassi. And that confidence carries over to the rest of his life as well, as Truman begins to realize there are other people that care for him and support him too. It is such a lovely transformation and you can’t help but root for Truman to find his way after all the pain he has experienced.
And I just loved Stassi. He is a big old Greek bear, a total flirt, a little outrageous, and incredibly sweet. Yes, maybe a little pushy in the beginning trying to get Truman to go out with him. But so warm and lovely and caring. Stassi doesn’t just accept Truman, but revels in everything about him. I love the physical contrasts between them — Truman who is fair and lean with long golden hair, and Stassi with his dark skin and huge fur-covered body. And wow, are they insanely hot together! The first love scene where Stassi finds Truman in his female clothes is just insane (not to mention much other hotness throughout the book). But they are also so incredibly sweet and loving. You can see how much these men care about each other, how protective they are toward each other, and how much love is growing between them.
The conflict these guys face is really an external one in terms of protecting Truman’s secrets. Stassi is out, which makes it difficult for them even to really be seen much together without raising suspicions. Especially when one of Truman’s fraternity brothers begins stirring up trouble. We can really understand Truman’s fears here. His financial situation is desperate, he has been hurt badly once before when people found out about him, and he really sees no other options aside from remaining closeted. And I really loved Stassi’s unconditional support here. It would be easy for him to get frustrated or push Truman toward more openness, but he stands behind Truman completely, wanting only to protect the man and help him find his way.
If I had any complaints with this story, it would be that things seemed perhaps a bit too easy in the resolution. I like to believe in everyone’s ability to be good and kind and accepting, but things seemed to resolve with just a bit too much patness. But honestly, I am not even sure I mind. Because in some ways, it works for the story, giving Truman that happiness that we want for him and the unconditional support that he needs.
Overall I thought this one was just wonderful. Such sweet loving heroes who really care for each other, lots of incredible heat and sexiness, and the story of a man who finds his way out of the darkness into something wonderful. This one is the first book in a new series and I can’t wait for more (and please will we get Mpenda’s story?) Excellent job and highly recommended.
Truman Durant has two secrets that haunt him and keep him in constant fear of discovery. First, he is gay. And second, he likes to occasionally wear women’s clothes. And Truman fiercely protects these secrets, terrified of what might happen if his baseball teammates and fraternity brothers find out. He desperately needs his athletic and academic scholarships to not only keep him in school, but also provide a home in the fraternity house. He worries if anyone learns the truth, especially about the cross dressing, he will be forced off the team and find himself unable to afford school and end up homeless once again.
Stassi Manolis is out and proud and a member of the school’s gay fraternity. He is hot for Truman and definitely wants him. At first Stassi doesn’t even realize Truman is gay, but once he senses his interest is returned, Stassi starts a full out pursuit. The problem is Truman is terrified of his secrets being uncovered and does his best to avoid Stassi, despite a growing attraction. But much to his suprise, when Stassi does discover Truman’s cross dressing, he is not only fine with it, but finds it a total turn on as well. Truman can hardly believe his luck to find a man who cares for him and is attracted all parts of him. But even as the relationship develops between Truman and Stassi, fears about others finding out his secrets continue to haunt Truman. Will Truman ever be able to be open about who he really is? Or will he have to continue to live life in the closet to protect himself?
Oh I so loved this one you guys! First off, I loved seeing Truman’s progression from scared and introverted, always worried about his secrets and closing himself off to everyone, to someone happy and in love and gaining self confidence. Before Stassi comes along, Truman’s sole focus is protecting his secrets and staying out of the spotlight. A crushing betrayal in his past has made it clear to him that no one will accept him if they find out he likes to wear women’s clothes. And even as he hates himself for it, he can’t stop. So Truman walls himself off to protect himself from future hurts and just tries to keep his head down. So Truman is truly astonished that Stassi not only accepts him for who he is, but is attracted to all parts of him. I loved seeing that light come into Truman’s eyes as he realizes he can be himself with Stassi. And that confidence carries over to the rest of his life as well, as Truman begins to realize there are other people that care for him and support him too. It is such a lovely transformation and you can’t help but root for Truman to find his way after all the pain he has experienced.
And I just loved Stassi. He is a big old Greek bear, a total flirt, a little outrageous, and incredibly sweet. Yes, maybe a little pushy in the beginning trying to get Truman to go out with him. But so warm and lovely and caring. Stassi doesn’t just accept Truman, but revels in everything about him. I love the physical contrasts between them — Truman who is fair and lean with long golden hair, and Stassi with his dark skin and huge fur-covered body. And wow, are they insanely hot together! The first love scene where Stassi finds Truman in his female clothes is just insane (not to mention much other hotness throughout the book). But they are also so incredibly sweet and loving. You can see how much these men care about each other, how protective they are toward each other, and how much love is growing between them.
The conflict these guys face is really an external one in terms of protecting Truman’s secrets. Stassi is out, which makes it difficult for them even to really be seen much together without raising suspicions. Especially when one of Truman’s fraternity brothers begins stirring up trouble. We can really understand Truman’s fears here. His financial situation is desperate, he has been hurt badly once before when people found out about him, and he really sees no other options aside from remaining closeted. And I really loved Stassi’s unconditional support here. It would be easy for him to get frustrated or push Truman toward more openness, but he stands behind Truman completely, wanting only to protect the man and help him find his way.
If I had any complaints with this story, it would be that things seemed perhaps a bit too easy in the resolution. I like to believe in everyone’s ability to be good and kind and accepting, but things seemed to resolve with just a bit too much patness. But honestly, I am not even sure I mind. Because in some ways, it works for the story, giving Truman that happiness that we want for him and the unconditional support that he needs.
Overall I thought this one was just wonderful. Such sweet loving heroes who really care for each other, lots of incredible heat and sexiness, and the story of a man who finds his way out of the darkness into something wonderful. This one is the first book in a new series and I can’t wait for more (and please will we get Mpenda’s story?) Excellent job and highly recommended.
September 20, 2012
Rating 4.5
This was a very sweet and beautiful story about owning your truth, love and acceptance. I loved both Truman and Stasi so, so much! Truman’s self-loathing, pain and fear were so heartbreaking. Stasi was amazing. So loving and accepting of ALL of Truman. His love was so strong and solid that Truman was able to find his inner strength to be who he really was. Truman’s roommates and friends were great too. I am so glad that this is just the first book in the series. I loved these characters and can’t wait to read the next book! Highly recommended!
Oh and the dedication was lovely and made the book that much sweeter :)
This was a very sweet and beautiful story about owning your truth, love and acceptance. I loved both Truman and Stasi so, so much! Truman’s self-loathing, pain and fear were so heartbreaking. Stasi was amazing. So loving and accepting of ALL of Truman. His love was so strong and solid that Truman was able to find his inner strength to be who he really was. Truman’s roommates and friends were great too. I am so glad that this is just the first book in the series. I loved these characters and can’t wait to read the next book! Highly recommended!
Oh and the dedication was lovely and made the book that much sweeter :)
January 27, 2015
This is normally the kind of story that I love but for some reason I just didn't enjoy the reading experience ... perhaps, now that I know how the story turns out, I might enjoy a re-read more ... for me, the sense of impending doom that permeated the story, kept my enjoyment hidden behind the trepidation of reading something horrific ... as I said, now that I know how things turn out, I'm happy with the story ... I just don't do anxiety well lol
October 5, 2014
I really, really enjoyed this! I just loved Truman and wanted to give him a big hug after reading the first few chapters. And Stasi was a great match for him. Overall, I thought this was a fun story...definitely one of the best things I have read from this author.
I'm looking forward to more in this series...anyone know if it's going to be a sequel about these two or maybe two different characters at the same college?
I'm looking forward to more in this series...anyone know if it's going to be a sequel about these two or maybe two different characters at the same college?
July 13, 2017
I adored this book. Like I was pissed when I finished that I'd alread read it kind of adored. About a poor college student deep in the closet and so miserable and a sweet Greek student who's attracted to him but even more wants to help him. So damned sweet and sexy and just freaking perfect!
October 12, 2016
I really liked this! It was short, but so sweet! I'm hoping it's the first of a series about Truman and Stasi ;)
February 9, 2018
The book doesn't really focus on anyone but Truman and Stasi, and it was disappointing because there are some great secondary characters I wanted to see more of, like Lenny and Grant. I hope there's more about them revealed in the second book.
Read like it had been edited poorly - a few typos, some areas drawn out longer than they needed to be, and others rushed through, some passages that didn't make any sense, and some paragraphs where it seemed to jump from one location to another, and was just plain confusing. If this was to get a really good edit and polish, it would no doubt be a 5 star rating from me.
Overall a cute read, but I expected a lot more out of it. With so many support characters also along the LGBT+ spectrum, this definitely has the potential to turn into a series with quite a few books in it, and I am keen to read the second, and any future books in the series.
Read like it had been edited poorly - a few typos, some areas drawn out longer than they needed to be, and others rushed through, some passages that didn't make any sense, and some paragraphs where it seemed to jump from one location to another, and was just plain confusing. If this was to get a really good edit and polish, it would no doubt be a 5 star rating from me.
Overall a cute read, but I expected a lot more out of it. With so many support characters also along the LGBT+ spectrum, this definitely has the potential to turn into a series with quite a few books in it, and I am keen to read the second, and any future books in the series.
December 20, 2021
Truman and Stasi
Right off the bat, where are the trigger warnings? As of today, 12/19/21, not a single trigger warning to be seen. However, there are suicidal ideations, extreme bigotry and homophonic language in this book. Please know that going in.
I really enjoyed this book. This was a new to me author and I’m so glad I picked this one up. Stasi is downright dreamy in this book. Confident without being arrogant. Sexy in a commanding way that makes you just swoon. The way he is with Truman was wonderful.
Truman evoked all the feels. The struggle he has within himself with wanting to live his truth but feeling like he couldn’t really translated well through the book. You really do feel for him so much. I adored how he started to flourish with Stasi by his side.
This was a highly enjoyable book.
Right off the bat, where are the trigger warnings? As of today, 12/19/21, not a single trigger warning to be seen. However, there are suicidal ideations, extreme bigotry and homophonic language in this book. Please know that going in.
I really enjoyed this book. This was a new to me author and I’m so glad I picked this one up. Stasi is downright dreamy in this book. Confident without being arrogant. Sexy in a commanding way that makes you just swoon. The way he is with Truman was wonderful.
Truman evoked all the feels. The struggle he has within himself with wanting to live his truth but feeling like he couldn’t really translated well through the book. You really do feel for him so much. I adored how he started to flourish with Stasi by his side.
This was a highly enjoyable book.
September 18, 2021
I absolutely love both Truman and Stasi! Such different guys but perfectly suited to each other. I was nearly crying four joy by the end -- what a long way from the start of the story! And Stasi's Mom is the BOMB!
October 3, 2020
RE-READ: I've been taking a trip down memory lane and reading some old faves. I shouldn't. So far I've been sort of disappointed and this was no exception. I liked Truman but Stasi comes off as a super stalker this time around. I keep wondering what kind of asshole parents Truman has that they blame the victim.
Oh, Truman. His painful secret(s) shouldn’t be secrets, in a perfect place. But we don’t live in that perfect place, and so he has to hide. He’s a jock and the last thing he wants is to get thrown out of the dorm, get beaten up or lose his scholarship. It’s all he’s got. He lived in his truck over the summer and he’s not going to do that again if he can help it.
He suffers from terrible shame about his past and his present. The present that includes his wanting to dress in women’s clothing. He thought he had found the person to accept him as he was, except that scumbag was quick to throw Truman under the bus, slinging accusations and lies. Truman had his heart crushed, but worse, it was a situation that devastated his life. His family sided with the scumbag and Truman has no one. He made it to the fraternity and he needs to stay put until he graduates.
Enter Stasi. In every sad story of someone being bullied or put down, I’d want there to be a Stasi around to make it better. Out of the closet, living in a gay fraternity, confident in himself, with a loving family and good friends. He is loyal, funny and a great friend. I liked him so much, I even decided he was good enough for Truman.
There is some great writing in this story, and some lines that made me laugh out loud. During an intense scene when Stasi discovers Truman’s big secret, and Truman is ready to disintegrate, he slings a barb at Stasi, which hurts him. Stasi calls Truman an asshole for said remark and Truman replies “You have a thing for assholes, huh?” Stasi responds “What gay man doesn’t?” This made me smile, typical Stasi defusing something that made Truman feel humiliated and making him laugh instead.
It is unfortunate that the scumbag in this scenario is all too common. That Truman comes away from the whole thing whole and capable is partly due to Stasi and partly due to Truman himself. They are so sweet. Put on your sexy dress, Truman, and rock it for him.
As a side note, I would never in a million years have believed I’d thank an author for putting farts in her book, but I have to here. Juvenile I may be, but that scene cracked me up, and it made me like those guys that much more. Kudos.
Oh, Truman. His painful secret(s) shouldn’t be secrets, in a perfect place. But we don’t live in that perfect place, and so he has to hide. He’s a jock and the last thing he wants is to get thrown out of the dorm, get beaten up or lose his scholarship. It’s all he’s got. He lived in his truck over the summer and he’s not going to do that again if he can help it.
He suffers from terrible shame about his past and his present. The present that includes his wanting to dress in women’s clothing. He thought he had found the person to accept him as he was, except that scumbag was quick to throw Truman under the bus, slinging accusations and lies. Truman had his heart crushed, but worse, it was a situation that devastated his life. His family sided with the scumbag and Truman has no one. He made it to the fraternity and he needs to stay put until he graduates.
Enter Stasi. In every sad story of someone being bullied or put down, I’d want there to be a Stasi around to make it better. Out of the closet, living in a gay fraternity, confident in himself, with a loving family and good friends. He is loyal, funny and a great friend. I liked him so much, I even decided he was good enough for Truman.
There is some great writing in this story, and some lines that made me laugh out loud. During an intense scene when Stasi discovers Truman’s big secret, and Truman is ready to disintegrate, he slings a barb at Stasi, which hurts him. Stasi calls Truman an asshole for said remark and Truman replies “You have a thing for assholes, huh?” Stasi responds “What gay man doesn’t?” This made me smile, typical Stasi defusing something that made Truman feel humiliated and making him laugh instead.
It is unfortunate that the scumbag in this scenario is all too common. That Truman comes away from the whole thing whole and capable is partly due to Stasi and partly due to Truman himself. They are so sweet. Put on your sexy dress, Truman, and rock it for him.
As a side note, I would never in a million years have believed I’d thank an author for putting farts in her book, but I have to here. Juvenile I may be, but that scene cracked me up, and it made me like those guys that much more. Kudos.
September 27, 2013
What can I say about this? First and foremost I want to hug the living sh*t out of Truman. I want to hold him and tell him everything is okay. He broke my heart. I literally had to put this book aside for the night because of Truman. He got to me in a way not many characters do.
For some reason I pictured them older and I think I would have liked it more if they WERE older than 18. They acted older, that's for sure. Especially Stasi.
Truman is a deep in the closet. So deep in the closet he's in Narnia. His family abandoned him after a bad "break up" and now he can't ever let anyone know he's gay. He's attending college on scholarships--one for academia and athletic. He's actually living in a jock dorm. Jock dorm + Gay Jock = one hell of a scary place! He keeps his head down and isolated in his room most of the time. He can not afford to get kicked out of the dorm or lose the scholarship, so he keeps to himself. One day he's in the library studying and he sees Stasi and he had no idea his world would be flipped upside down.
About Stasi, I really liked him and his stalkerish ways. However, I was NOT happy about I liked how he slowly let Truman come into his own and watched his confidence grow. He let Truman, just be Tru. Accepted him as is and never said a word.
"Hello, brand new kink!"
Now, what would I have liked to have seen? Truman and Stasi out in public more. I would have liked the Epi to have been later than a week after everything happened.
One thing I hated? The cover. Stasi is a bear and yet dude on the cover is shiny smooth.
For some reason I pictured them older and I think I would have liked it more if they WERE older than 18. They acted older, that's for sure. Especially Stasi.
Truman is a deep in the closet. So deep in the closet he's in Narnia. His family abandoned him after a bad "break up" and now he can't ever let anyone know he's gay. He's attending college on scholarships--one for academia and athletic. He's actually living in a jock dorm. Jock dorm + Gay Jock = one hell of a scary place! He keeps his head down and isolated in his room most of the time. He can not afford to get kicked out of the dorm or lose the scholarship, so he keeps to himself. One day he's in the library studying and he sees Stasi and he had no idea his world would be flipped upside down.
About Stasi, I really liked him and his stalkerish ways. However, I was NOT happy about I liked how he slowly let Truman come into his own and watched his confidence grow. He let Truman, just be Tru. Accepted him as is and never said a word.
"Hello, brand new kink!"
Now, what would I have liked to have seen? Truman and Stasi out in public more. I would have liked the Epi to have been later than a week after everything happened.
One thing I hated? The cover. Stasi is a bear and yet dude on the cover is shiny smooth.
September 27, 2013
Main Characters: Stasi Manolis & Truman Durant
Key Themes: Coming Out, Friends to Lovers, Humor
Location: Ohio
Great story about a cross-dressing college jock and a liberal arts student of greek descent. I loved this story!
Truman is a beautiful gay student, on a basketball scholarship, and living in frat house. College is all he has, since his family recently disowned him, after he was involved in a teacher-student sex scandal in their small town. Strangely, Tru was blamed for it! Since then, Truman has been debasing himself with online hook ups whenever he gets the urge to cross-dress.
Stasi looks like a greek god, and is recently out and proud. Through his wit and humor, Stasi helps Tru realize that his need to cross-dress is nothing to be ashamed of.
I loved Stasi's outlook, his humor and wisdom. At the start of the story, Tru is a broken man, but as the story progresses, he transforms and becomes more accepting of himself.
I wish Stasi had taken Tru home to meet his greek family, and that we had actually witnessed Tru playing basketball. Still, I did not want the story to end!
Key Themes: Coming Out, Friends to Lovers, Humor
Location: Ohio
Great story about a cross-dressing college jock and a liberal arts student of greek descent. I loved this story!
Truman is a beautiful gay student, on a basketball scholarship, and living in frat house. College is all he has, since his family recently disowned him, after he was involved in a teacher-student sex scandal in their small town. Strangely, Tru was blamed for it! Since then, Truman has been debasing himself with online hook ups whenever he gets the urge to cross-dress.
Stasi looks like a greek god, and is recently out and proud. Through his wit and humor, Stasi helps Tru realize that his need to cross-dress is nothing to be ashamed of.
I loved Stasi's outlook, his humor and wisdom. At the start of the story, Tru is a broken man, but as the story progresses, he transforms and becomes more accepting of himself.
I wish Stasi had taken Tru home to meet his greek family, and that we had actually witnessed Tru playing basketball. Still, I did not want the story to end!
September 16, 2012
This is one of those books where I want more, more, MORE...me greedy? Never lol!
I'd love to know how it continues. This story is set in college. Truman is a deeply closeted guy with a big secret to top it all off. He's been kicked out of home, traumatised by other events and very scared about the possibility of losing his scholarships if his secrets come out. Stasi is out and proud and likes what he sees when he looks at Truman. Lucky for them they can work things out.
The characters are well-rounded and interesting. The challenges they face seem real and not forced. Maybe the solution was a little easy, but not everything needs to be extreme drama. And because of where the story ended it was just right!
I'd just really like to see more. But then I usually do with characters that touch me. I don't mean more in this story, as if it's not finished, or bits left untold. I want more as in following on after college. Meeting family, getting jobs, growing old lol!
I'd love to know how it continues. This story is set in college. Truman is a deeply closeted guy with a big secret to top it all off. He's been kicked out of home, traumatised by other events and very scared about the possibility of losing his scholarships if his secrets come out. Stasi is out and proud and likes what he sees when he looks at Truman. Lucky for them they can work things out.
The characters are well-rounded and interesting. The challenges they face seem real and not forced. Maybe the solution was a little easy, but not everything needs to be extreme drama. And because of where the story ended it was just right!
I'd just really like to see more. But then I usually do with characters that touch me. I don't mean more in this story, as if it's not finished, or bits left untold. I want more as in following on after college. Meeting family, getting jobs, growing old lol!
December 30, 2012
This book deals with a subject that I have no real working knowledge of. I’m not going to say what it is because that would give away a chunk of the story and I prefer not to do that to the author who worked so hard to make it a good read.
And this story was a good read. Stasi wants Truman. He makes no bones about it. He teases the man. Shows up in places he knows Truman will be. Truman is afraid, though. He’s so deeply in the closet that he goes several towns over to have sex because he has a secret that if it was known could cost him everything.
Please see Mr. P's complete review on Dec. 31, 2012 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
And this story was a good read. Stasi wants Truman. He makes no bones about it. He teases the man. Shows up in places he knows Truman will be. Truman is afraid, though. He’s so deeply in the closet that he goes several towns over to have sex because he has a secret that if it was known could cost him everything.
Please see Mr. P's complete review on Dec. 31, 2012 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
January 27, 2013
4 stars. A good college-age story of a guy coming out of the closet. It was a sweet story and I read it in one sitting. I enjoyed the few unusual aspects of this book -- the cross-dressing and the "furriness". Otherwise, though, it wasn't a particularly memorable romance,
August 31, 2014
Cute and sweet. The drama was a little over the top. Could of dialed it back a little.
The cross dressing was a nice addition. Man panties was a first for me.
I'd still be interested in the series if it still involve Truman and Stasi. The support characters were easily forgettable.
The cross dressing was a nice addition. Man panties was a first for me.
I'd still be interested in the series if it still involve Truman and Stasi. The support characters were easily forgettable.
December 31, 2012
Loved every moment of this story. Thought the heroes were perfect together. Perfect mix of angst and lightness which balanced it out nicely. Can't wait for read more!
September 15, 2016
2.5/5
I was liking it, and then it just not did it for me anymore. Plus it caught me at a bad time.
I was liking it, and then it just not did it for me anymore. Plus it caught me at a bad time.
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