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Tales from Foster High #9
What About Everything?
Sequel to Taking Chances
A Tales from Foster High Story
No matter how fast you run, the past has a way of catching up with you.
When an accident ruins Matt’s parents’ anniversary party, Tyler and Matt decide a vacation is in order, and they book a gay Disney cruise with Robbie and Sebastian. It’ll be the perfect place to relax and do some much-needed soul-searching. A couple of years have passed since they met, but Tyler and Matt are no closer to getting married. They must take a long, hard look at their relationship and decide if they’re happy with the way things are, or if they want more—and if they can find the courage to take the next step. A difficult choice is made even harder when two people they thought they’d left behind show up to complicate the issue and turn the whole cruise upside down.
A Tales from Foster High Story
No matter how fast you run, the past has a way of catching up with you.
When an accident ruins Matt’s parents’ anniversary party, Tyler and Matt decide a vacation is in order, and they book a gay Disney cruise with Robbie and Sebastian. It’ll be the perfect place to relax and do some much-needed soul-searching. A couple of years have passed since they met, but Tyler and Matt are no closer to getting married. They must take a long, hard look at their relationship and decide if they’re happy with the way things are, or if they want more—and if they can find the courage to take the next step. A difficult choice is made even harder when two people they thought they’d left behind show up to complicate the issue and turn the whole cruise upside down.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 23, 2016
1 person is currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
John Goode
35 books670 followersJohn Goode is a member of the class of '88 from Hogwarts school of wizardry, specializing in incantations and spoken spells. At the age of 14 he proudly represented District 13 in the 65th Panem games where he was disqualified for crying uncontrollably before the competition began. After that he moved to Forks, Washington where, against all odds, dated the hot, incredibly approachable werewolf instead of the stuck up jerk of a vampire but was crushed when he found out the werewolf was actually gayer than he was. After that he turned down the mandatory operation everyone must receive at 16 to become pretty citing that everyone pretty were just too stupid to live before moving away for greener pastures. After falling down an oddly large rabbit hole he became huge when his love for cakes combined with his inability to resist what sparsely worded notes commanded and was finally kicked out when he began playing solitaire with the Red Queen's 4th armored division. By 18 he had found the land in the back of his wardrobe but decided that thinly veiled religious allegories where not the neighbors he desired. When last seen he had become obsessed with growing a pair of wings after becoming obsessed with Fang's blog and hasn't been seen since.
Or he is this guy who lives in this place and writes stuff he hopes you read.
Or he is this guy who lives in this place and writes stuff he hopes you read.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 8, 2016
Oh, Tyler, Tyler, Tyler, you poor man-child.
This story is the tale of Tyler finally realizing what he's going to lose, if he doesn't finally grow up and start adulting, like everyone else in his life.
Tyler loves Matt. Matt loves Tyler. Those are facts, but if Tyler starts thinking about serious, lifelong commitment, you're likely to find him turning white and hovering over a bucket until the dizziness and nausea passes.
Peter Pan at his finest, folks.
But when Tyler fucks up royally with Matt, in front of God and nearly everyone in their hometown, he knows that he has to make up for the embarrassment and humiliation that he's unintentionally caused. Dumb, hot boys are dumb.
Enter Robbie and Sebastian, who I grew to love even more dearly by the end of this story. With Robbie's advice, Tyler buys tickets for a two-week, gay Disney cruise and away the foursome sail.
With Tyler and Matt providing most of the drama and feels, and Robbie and Sebastian keeping the story light, and often funny as hell, this one was a real winner for me.
From phobic-level fears to dashed hopes, from evil ex-BFF's to scheming, slutty gym boys, and from forgotten pasts to dreams of a better, happier future, this story had it all.
Slutty gym boys. Just because, okay? Don't judge me!!! :- P
And I loved every minute of it!
Well, to be 100% honest, I'm not the biggest Disney Superfan that ever existed, so I wouldn't have been mad if some of the Disney OTT'ness had been dialed down a few notches, but it wasn't so much that it bothered me.
The story was fairly angsty, but appropriately so. And the sexy scenes stayed in character with the rest of this series, which is to say implied and off-page. But the witty segues away from what was about to happen were nearly as entertaining.
The story is told in three parts, with perspectives mostly from Tyler, Matt, Robbie and Sebastian, which I found enjoyable and often times hilarious.
Word to the wise, though, do not fuck with Robbie. That bitch will take you out and not even chip a nail.
Example: “I’m Robbie. Enchanté.”
Translation: "Despite my looks, one wrong move, lady, and I'll suck the marrow from your bones while you watch."
In the end, Tyler and Matt do get their hard-won HEA and maybe even a bit more. And I was thrilled to finally see Kyle and Brad finally make a brief appearance in the epilogue.
Overall, I'd rate this one a solid 4.5 "This bitch again?" stars and highly recommend it to anyone who has already read the previous stories.
------------------------------------------------
My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
September 23, 2016
BR with Paul and Sonia
First of all I just have to say I’m honored to have been mentioned as Tyler’s first girlfriend Elsbeth. The one who totally fucked up his idea of marriage. The one Tyler chose to blame……
“I swear, this is all Elsbeth Roo’s fault.”
I had such a blast reading those parts, even recognized true parts. *glares at Paul*
But now the book of course;
The thing with John Goode’s books is they are real. You can relate to them. And reading about a gay couple struggling with defining their relationship is as real as it gets. We all, straight or not come to deal with the same issues.
When I finished, I was overwhelmed. I just couldn’t write down my thoughts right away so I guess now I’ve waited too long so I’ll have to read it all over again.
This book is about growing up, leaving our mistakes in the past and live our life to the fullest.
Tyler and Matt have been in a relationship for a few years and Tyler is quite content. Matt feels like this relationship isn’t going anywhere. Tyler is feeling the tension and is trying to resolve it on his own peculiar way.
“So let me guess. You tried bribing him, babying him, and offered him the full Tyler trying to cheer him up, but the one thing you haven’t done was ask him what’s wrong.”
And he messes up. Big time. Matt is embarrassed in front of his family and Tyler will have to do everything in his power to make it up to Matt.
Enter Robbie. Robbie was amazing in this book. I love his sassiness, his humor and his pursue to care about the people he loves. He won’t admit it but he IS very fond of Tyler. So Robbie has all these solutions for Tyler to make up with Matt.
And my gawd the situations had me laughing so bad…
I’m not going to say much about it just this:
“Puppygeddon”
Poor, poor Matt….
Tyler needs to stop with his apology gifts and with Robbie’s help seals the deal with a real
Gay Disney Cruise. “which meant a masquerade ball, dancing, actual alcohol drinks, and hot guys dressed up as Disney princes wandering around the ship”
Now, the cruise John described was so cool. I loved all the Disney themed rooms and gadgets…
the cabin walls were wall-sized monitors, and they displayed a pretty impressive view of a valley from a vantage point atop Pride Rock. As we walked in, the music swelled and the first notes of the Lion King theme began to play all around us.
Zazu was totally awesome!!
“Zazu?” I asked, moving my arms around Tyler’s shoulder.
“Yes?”
“Get lost,” I said, kissing Tyler.
So at this point you’re thinking Disney-like, and they live happily ever after.
WRONG!!
For me it was an emotional rollercoaster. It was hilarious at times but most of all I was screaming at Tyler and Matt for the mess that it still was. You could see this train wreck coming.. Both of them afraid of losing each other.
“I love you, Tyler, I really do. But I don’t know how we can go on like this. Something has to change. We have to get past our fears or just forget it, because I can’t keep going on like this.”
I loved Sebastian’s friendship with Matt. Who am I kidding I loved all four of them. Robbie and Sebastian were determined to help their friends.
“I’m your best friend. I mean. I’m assuming here, but we talk, like, every day, and I’ve seen your boyfriend’s junk, so I thought that meant we’re best friends, but I don’t want to overstep my boundaries if you think I’m just a bro or a normal friend.”
Robbie’s song and revelation gave me goosebumps.
Tyler will finally get it and accept the fact he’s made mistakes and that it’s okay to move forward.
I want to end with Robbie. Just because he’s awesome and I just wanted to post a pic how he would look like in his Elsa costume.
I could totally keep raving about this book and of course we’ll get Tyler and Matt’s well-deserved HEA but then I got to the epilogue which had me fangirling because of
This book is amazing so go read it!!
September 27, 2016
5 Stars
John Goode has done it again. He has delivered another perfectly paced, deeply emotional, highly hilarious and extremely well-written story, which I absolutely loved.
This sequel-within-a-series follows Matt and Tyler as they face multiple (often self-imposed) obstacles while they consider the future of their relationship. They’ve been together a few years now and Matt is ready for more. As usual, Tyler’s self-loathing and rampant insecurities put a spanner in the works and make him do and say silly cave-man-like things that get him into constant trouble with Matt. But bless them both to bits and pieces, because Matt is the most warm and open and forgiving man there is, and Tyler – although emotionally retarded at times and possessing the apology planning skills of a gnat – has a good heart and loves Matt with everything he’s got. I couldn’t help but be wrapped up in their love and root for their HEA.
A big part of the story follows Matt and Tyler joining Robbie and Sebastian on a gay Disney cruise. I need to mention two things here: A) Robbie and Sebastian are the greatest secondary characters ever in this story, and B) The cruise which Goode fancied into existence here was pure fucking genius. As a major Disnerd – it’s a word because Urban Dictionary says so – this whole concept blew my mind and made me desperate to go on said cruise.
I'm deadly serious when I say that the pop culture references in this book are the greatest I've ever read. Perhaps it's that the references are just so particularly relevant to me and my own entertainment obsessions, but either way, I truly enjoy relating to so many of the movie/TV/music/theatre themed comments made throughout this story – it makes the reader (or at least this reader) feel like they are actually a part of the story and the conversations.
I have to also give a quick shout-out to all the parents in this story. They were everything. I can’t decide who was funnier: Matt’s dad, Tyler’s parents or Robbie’s mother? It’s too close to call, but they were all fantastically supportive and inappropriately hilarious.
The characters in this series never fail to impress. They are funny, honest, insecure, scared and often stupid, but that’s what makes them relatable. I consider there to be six core characters in this series and I adore every single one of them for different reasons – but I’ll always love Robbie the mostest because that bitch is fierce! They are all amazingly fleshed out, multi-dimensional, imperfectly perfect men, who never cease to make me laugh and cry with equal measure. I could very happily follow their stories until they (we) are old and grey, but until then I’ll take everything that I can get set in this fantastic world of Foster, Texas.
I’m so proud of what John Goode has created here and I feel beyond privileged to have read his words. This series holds a very special place in my heart, so if you haven’t read it yet, you should.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
***This story is set a few years on from the events in Taking Chances and should NOT be read as a standalone.
John Goode has done it again. He has delivered another perfectly paced, deeply emotional, highly hilarious and extremely well-written story, which I absolutely loved.
This sequel-within-a-series follows Matt and Tyler as they face multiple (often self-imposed) obstacles while they consider the future of their relationship. They’ve been together a few years now and Matt is ready for more. As usual, Tyler’s self-loathing and rampant insecurities put a spanner in the works and make him do and say silly cave-man-like things that get him into constant trouble with Matt. But bless them both to bits and pieces, because Matt is the most warm and open and forgiving man there is, and Tyler – although emotionally retarded at times and possessing the apology planning skills of a gnat – has a good heart and loves Matt with everything he’s got. I couldn’t help but be wrapped up in their love and root for their HEA.
A big part of the story follows Matt and Tyler joining Robbie and Sebastian on a gay Disney cruise. I need to mention two things here: A) Robbie and Sebastian are the greatest secondary characters ever in this story, and B) The cruise which Goode fancied into existence here was pure fucking genius. As a major Disnerd – it’s a word because Urban Dictionary says so – this whole concept blew my mind and made me desperate to go on said cruise.
I'm deadly serious when I say that the pop culture references in this book are the greatest I've ever read. Perhaps it's that the references are just so particularly relevant to me and my own entertainment obsessions, but either way, I truly enjoy relating to so many of the movie/TV/music/theatre themed comments made throughout this story – it makes the reader (or at least this reader) feel like they are actually a part of the story and the conversations.
I have to also give a quick shout-out to all the parents in this story. They were everything. I can’t decide who was funnier: Matt’s dad, Tyler’s parents or Robbie’s mother? It’s too close to call, but they were all fantastically supportive and inappropriately hilarious.
The characters in this series never fail to impress. They are funny, honest, insecure, scared and often stupid, but that’s what makes them relatable. I consider there to be six core characters in this series and I adore every single one of them for different reasons – but I’ll always love Robbie the mostest because that bitch is fierce! They are all amazingly fleshed out, multi-dimensional, imperfectly perfect men, who never cease to make me laugh and cry with equal measure. I could very happily follow their stories until they (we) are old and grey, but until then I’ll take everything that I can get set in this fantastic world of Foster, Texas.
I’m so proud of what John Goode has created here and I feel beyond privileged to have read his words. This series holds a very special place in my heart, so if you haven’t read it yet, you should.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
***This story is set a few years on from the events in Taking Chances and should NOT be read as a standalone.
May 23, 2024
✰ 3.75 stars ✰
“..Love has a way of giving people the ability to find the way to where they should be, no matter what the obstacle.
But that is the marvel of the Lord’s gift of love. It can make the strong weak, the blind see, and it can make the lost found again.”
'So, yes, I did skip Matt and Tyler's story, because honestly, they are my least favorite pairing of this series, but given the fact the Lost Tales From Foster High did not focus on them much, it's safe to say I did not miss out on anything substantial.'
Never was there a fool bigger than I when I spoke such foolishness, because the way these words came back to hit me where it hurts has me still shaking myself for speaking them! 😅😅
So much that I did not know about myself I learned while reading Matt and Tyler's story. I did not know that I would grow fond of their relationship the way it did here. I did not know that John Goode still was capable of writing romantic words about love that wooed my heart, but still captured the bitterness of being in love. I did not know how badly I wanted to - nay, need to go on a Disney cruise of my own, because the way it was described in such fascinating and attractive detail in What About Everything? is a magical dream that must be taken in one's life. I did not know that there was so much love not lost between the two of them and how hard it is to finally earn the right even to ask a loved one their hand in marriage. 💌💌
“I love you,” he interrupted breathlessly. “That’s what I was saying out there, that I love you.”
“And I love you too, Tyler, but those three words don’t change things. They don’t solve problems. They’re just words without actions, without changes, and we have been doing the same thing for too long now.”
Because Tyler did screw up - big time at Matt's parents' anniversary party. Anyone there would have assumed he was about to pop the big question - and when he didn't, I cringed for him so hard and felt Matt's humiliation tenfold. 😣🫢 It’s not the question. It’s what it means.' And maybe Robbie's intentions were noble when he invited the two of them along his and Sebastian's Disney vacay - a sort of reprieve for them to navigate their rocky waters back to a spark that lands them both on solid ground. Okay - that was a bad metaphor, but it was with a good heart and a good place that the two of them went on this trip, because hey, Matt's a Disney lover and being pampered by all their delights on a cruise catered specifically for the gay couples who live off the magic of Disney as much as him? What could be better? 🥰🥰
Well, they're about to find out.
The way John G. addressed the troubles of their relationship - the challenges that they met that had them take a hard look at the place they were in their lives - I thought it was handled really well. I've never been quiet about how I have mixed feelings on the two of them, how I know they're here to be that opposing voice - a counterbalance to Kyle and Brad's relationship - a more mature one, but still burdened by so much of their own palpable insecurities and troubled pasts that makes it hard to really - not empathize with them, but sympathize because so much of how they behaved before makes me slightly less eager to be receptive to their own personal issues. 🙁
“I know I’m not always Prince Charming, but I do love you, Matt. And I will spend the rest of my life convincing you of that if I have to.”
“You don’t have to,” I said breathlessly.
“I know.” He smiled. “I just want to.”
But, something about them here really hit well with me. Something about the way the author wrote about their sex lives in such a positive and healthy light - one which he rarely does, but I felt really glad to see it - not described in detail - he loves breaking the fourth wall here whenever it comes up - but how he showed that physical intimacy is a natural thing in a healthy relationship. 😳 That Matt and Tyler are very much in love and entwined with each other - wanting and yearning for the other's touch. 😏 It was in the way he also captured that even the magic of Disney is not enough to wipe away the matters of the heart - what led them here in the first place. That being together as long as they have - are they ready to take that next step from boyfriends, to living together, to spending the rest of their lives together - in a union of holy matrimony. Is marriage just in name only or does it have to mean something more - to make it count? 'Marriage should be a choice, a glorious choice, not an ultimatum.' 😢 It's hard when one is ready and one is not so ready. It's hard when one wants more in their relationship and the other is fine the way they are. It brings about a whole other set of issues and doubts and challenges that frankly, Robbie did NOT sign up for and Sebastian is too kind-hearted to deny either of them his helping concerned hand. 😩
For sometimes even a friend's less than friendly advice isn't enough to assuage the mind - especially when the interference of a Disney villain-esque presents ample reason to prove how Tyler is NOT so ready to be married - let alone feeling deserving or worthy enough to be Matt's lifelong partner. But, with the ease and tolerance - haha, okay, that's being too generous, but with that same way in which unfortunate stupid mistakes are made, so too can the voice of reason and understanding make its way forward. But Tyler, we’re both just waiting for the other shoe to drop. We always have been... We have to get past our fears or just forget it, because I can’t keep going on like this.' 😟 Something about the author's writing is always laced with some kind of intense need to be as vocally against true happiness - almost so determined to prove it's not true - a bitterness that resonates with his characters. But, even so, it makes me want to root for his characters even more - to have them disprove his anger towards it - his disbelief that nothing in life is as perfect as it is for a prince to find his prince - and then, well, maybe, that is what he's trying to do. To give readers that honest look at how happiness can be attained at any point in one's life - to shine through, despite the hurdles it took to get to that final stop. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“Soulmates are mirrors that reflect who we really are and show us who we can strive to be... They should startle us by their ability to make us want to change.”
Maybe it was the setting; how all the Disney characters lightened the mood and brought a certain levity to it that allowed me to feel that even if Tyler and Matt's moods denied that believable fairy tale of an ending - it did not mean that they wouldn't get to have it. They proved to be soulmates of their own kind - a moment of trust and affection that had me tearing up at how beautifully it was described that they were meant to be together - always. 🥹🥹 Tyler didn't have to be Prince Charming to prove to Matt that he loved him - even when he needed to grow up the most and face his own fears, which, honestly, did irk me, but he handled it in the best possible way he could. Robbie was a sport as he always is - 'Tyler, you can love something with all your heart, but if you let fear stop you from expressing that love, you’re going to lose it' - and I don't think they could have made it through if not for him and Sebastian being the steady anchors they both needed to guide themselves back to each other's arms. 🫂🫶🏻😌
I'm as surprised as you are that it ended up being everything I wanted. Yes, there was A LOT of drama - a lot that would have had most toss the towel in much earlier - yes, I could have done without certain characters making their presences known and definitely did NOT deserve to be redeemed - but if you've reached as far as you have in this series, then you should know by now how it feels like you're watching a tv show unfold - watching as the characters talk through their heartbreak, voice their thoughts directly to us, making us feel as close to them as possible. 😢 Through the fights, through the ultimatums, through the awkward tension that radiated between them, preventing them from having the good time that was promised, there was such a gentle and placating lightness to it that didn't make me feel as tightly wounded as they were. Shocking, I know. 😄
“Soul mates aren’t pieces of a puzzle or two sides of the same coin. They are two people who are so different, who come, mentally, from such different places, that it will take a lifetime for one to truly understand the other.
You know someone is your soulmate when you want to take that lifetime to try.”
Despite the constant back-and-forth of self-doubt and not knowing whether or not marriage is their actual endgame, by the time the cruise ended, I really liked where they both were in their relationship. How they felt, what they knew their future was, the honesty and still utter devotion and love they felt, everything about it just felt right. 'Nothing worth anything is easy. All the best things in the world are worth fighting for.' 🥺 The ending was really sweet and truly deserving. There were some heartbreaking tough times before - moments where I wondered if Tyler was going to be a bonehead forever, or Matt's Disney dreams would be crushed too painfully, but the story guided me to safe shores and gave me the happy ending that they both deserved at their own terms at the right moment in their lives. 🩵🔔👰🏻♂️🩵 It feels surreal to think that there's only one book left in this series - I feel like I've lived a lifetime with them. 😅 It's been one hell of a ride; and knowing that I'm nearing the finish line is a bittersweet feeling, but it's definitely a contemporary romance very much unlike anything I've read. And one, I'm glad I was given a chance to experience. 💞💞
“..Love has a way of giving people the ability to find the way to where they should be, no matter what the obstacle.
But that is the marvel of the Lord’s gift of love. It can make the strong weak, the blind see, and it can make the lost found again.”
'So, yes, I did skip Matt and Tyler's story, because honestly, they are my least favorite pairing of this series, but given the fact the Lost Tales From Foster High did not focus on them much, it's safe to say I did not miss out on anything substantial.'
Never was there a fool bigger than I when I spoke such foolishness, because the way these words came back to hit me where it hurts has me still shaking myself for speaking them! 😅😅
So much that I did not know about myself I learned while reading Matt and Tyler's story. I did not know that I would grow fond of their relationship the way it did here. I did not know that John Goode still was capable of writing romantic words about love that wooed my heart, but still captured the bitterness of being in love. I did not know how badly I wanted to - nay, need to go on a Disney cruise of my own, because the way it was described in such fascinating and attractive detail in What About Everything? is a magical dream that must be taken in one's life. I did not know that there was so much love not lost between the two of them and how hard it is to finally earn the right even to ask a loved one their hand in marriage. 💌💌
“I love you,” he interrupted breathlessly. “That’s what I was saying out there, that I love you.”
“And I love you too, Tyler, but those three words don’t change things. They don’t solve problems. They’re just words without actions, without changes, and we have been doing the same thing for too long now.”
Because Tyler did screw up - big time at Matt's parents' anniversary party. Anyone there would have assumed he was about to pop the big question - and when he didn't, I cringed for him so hard and felt Matt's humiliation tenfold. 😣🫢 It’s not the question. It’s what it means.' And maybe Robbie's intentions were noble when he invited the two of them along his and Sebastian's Disney vacay - a sort of reprieve for them to navigate their rocky waters back to a spark that lands them both on solid ground. Okay - that was a bad metaphor, but it was with a good heart and a good place that the two of them went on this trip, because hey, Matt's a Disney lover and being pampered by all their delights on a cruise catered specifically for the gay couples who live off the magic of Disney as much as him? What could be better? 🥰🥰
Well, they're about to find out.
The way John G. addressed the troubles of their relationship - the challenges that they met that had them take a hard look at the place they were in their lives - I thought it was handled really well. I've never been quiet about how I have mixed feelings on the two of them, how I know they're here to be that opposing voice - a counterbalance to Kyle and Brad's relationship - a more mature one, but still burdened by so much of their own palpable insecurities and troubled pasts that makes it hard to really - not empathize with them, but sympathize because so much of how they behaved before makes me slightly less eager to be receptive to their own personal issues. 🙁
“I know I’m not always Prince Charming, but I do love you, Matt. And I will spend the rest of my life convincing you of that if I have to.”
“You don’t have to,” I said breathlessly.
“I know.” He smiled. “I just want to.”
But, something about them here really hit well with me. Something about the way the author wrote about their sex lives in such a positive and healthy light - one which he rarely does, but I felt really glad to see it - not described in detail - he loves breaking the fourth wall here whenever it comes up - but how he showed that physical intimacy is a natural thing in a healthy relationship. 😳 That Matt and Tyler are very much in love and entwined with each other - wanting and yearning for the other's touch. 😏 It was in the way he also captured that even the magic of Disney is not enough to wipe away the matters of the heart - what led them here in the first place. That being together as long as they have - are they ready to take that next step from boyfriends, to living together, to spending the rest of their lives together - in a union of holy matrimony. Is marriage just in name only or does it have to mean something more - to make it count? 'Marriage should be a choice, a glorious choice, not an ultimatum.' 😢 It's hard when one is ready and one is not so ready. It's hard when one wants more in their relationship and the other is fine the way they are. It brings about a whole other set of issues and doubts and challenges that frankly, Robbie did NOT sign up for and Sebastian is too kind-hearted to deny either of them his helping concerned hand. 😩
For sometimes even a friend's less than friendly advice isn't enough to assuage the mind - especially when the interference of a Disney villain-esque presents ample reason to prove how Tyler is NOT so ready to be married - let alone feeling deserving or worthy enough to be Matt's lifelong partner. But, with the ease and tolerance - haha, okay, that's being too generous, but with that same way in which unfortunate stupid mistakes are made, so too can the voice of reason and understanding make its way forward. But Tyler, we’re both just waiting for the other shoe to drop. We always have been... We have to get past our fears or just forget it, because I can’t keep going on like this.' 😟 Something about the author's writing is always laced with some kind of intense need to be as vocally against true happiness - almost so determined to prove it's not true - a bitterness that resonates with his characters. But, even so, it makes me want to root for his characters even more - to have them disprove his anger towards it - his disbelief that nothing in life is as perfect as it is for a prince to find his prince - and then, well, maybe, that is what he's trying to do. To give readers that honest look at how happiness can be attained at any point in one's life - to shine through, despite the hurdles it took to get to that final stop. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“Soulmates are mirrors that reflect who we really are and show us who we can strive to be... They should startle us by their ability to make us want to change.”
Maybe it was the setting; how all the Disney characters lightened the mood and brought a certain levity to it that allowed me to feel that even if Tyler and Matt's moods denied that believable fairy tale of an ending - it did not mean that they wouldn't get to have it. They proved to be soulmates of their own kind - a moment of trust and affection that had me tearing up at how beautifully it was described that they were meant to be together - always. 🥹🥹 Tyler didn't have to be Prince Charming to prove to Matt that he loved him - even when he needed to grow up the most and face his own fears, which, honestly, did irk me, but he handled it in the best possible way he could. Robbie was a sport as he always is - 'Tyler, you can love something with all your heart, but if you let fear stop you from expressing that love, you’re going to lose it' - and I don't think they could have made it through if not for him and Sebastian being the steady anchors they both needed to guide themselves back to each other's arms. 🫂🫶🏻😌
I'm as surprised as you are that it ended up being everything I wanted. Yes, there was A LOT of drama - a lot that would have had most toss the towel in much earlier - yes, I could have done without certain characters making their presences known and definitely did NOT deserve to be redeemed - but if you've reached as far as you have in this series, then you should know by now how it feels like you're watching a tv show unfold - watching as the characters talk through their heartbreak, voice their thoughts directly to us, making us feel as close to them as possible. 😢 Through the fights, through the ultimatums, through the awkward tension that radiated between them, preventing them from having the good time that was promised, there was such a gentle and placating lightness to it that didn't make me feel as tightly wounded as they were. Shocking, I know. 😄
“Soul mates aren’t pieces of a puzzle or two sides of the same coin. They are two people who are so different, who come, mentally, from such different places, that it will take a lifetime for one to truly understand the other.
You know someone is your soulmate when you want to take that lifetime to try.”
Despite the constant back-and-forth of self-doubt and not knowing whether or not marriage is their actual endgame, by the time the cruise ended, I really liked where they both were in their relationship. How they felt, what they knew their future was, the honesty and still utter devotion and love they felt, everything about it just felt right. 'Nothing worth anything is easy. All the best things in the world are worth fighting for.' 🥺 The ending was really sweet and truly deserving. There were some heartbreaking tough times before - moments where I wondered if Tyler was going to be a bonehead forever, or Matt's Disney dreams would be crushed too painfully, but the story guided me to safe shores and gave me the happy ending that they both deserved at their own terms at the right moment in their lives. 🩵🔔👰🏻♂️🩵 It feels surreal to think that there's only one book left in this series - I feel like I've lived a lifetime with them. 😅 It's been one hell of a ride; and knowing that I'm nearing the finish line is a bittersweet feeling, but it's definitely a contemporary romance very much unlike anything I've read. And one, I'm glad I was given a chance to experience. 💞💞
August 11, 2017
Sebastian, Robbie, Matt y Tyler se embarcan en un Crucero Disney totalmente surrealista. Momentos muy divertidos mezclados con problemas de pareja y de crecimiento personal muy reales.
Me ha encantado, no sé a qué esperáis a empezar con esta serie.
Me ha encantado, no sé a qué esperáis a empezar con esta serie.
May 8, 2017
4.5 Stars
Told mostly from the POV of Matt, Tyler, Sebastian, and Robbie this story in the Tales from Foster High series focuses on Matt and Tyler's relationship and Tyler's almost supernatural ability to sabotage his own happiness.
When Tyler's good intentions leave him on shaky ground with Matt he gets advice about stepping up his game. This leads to a lot of hilarity.
I love the humor that infuses so much of this story, and damn, but it's needed at times. Because this isn't just a they sail away into the sunset with ease kind of story. No, this is a they had to work hard for it kind of story.
Because this story is all kinds of hilarious before and after you get socked in the metaphorical gut with all the feels. But make no mistake - your feels get a workout.
Beyond Tyler and Matt and their whole storyline there is Robbie and Sebastian, and lord knows I absolutely love Robbie and Sebastian, especially when they're dispensing advice and/or being the white knight, they were both spot on perfect.
The only thing keeping this from being perfect, for me, was that there were a couple of scenes I would have liked to have gotten a better glimpse at that were off page. I'm not even talking about the sex scenes, considering they're mostly off page or lightly described, and strangely enough, that actually worked for me.
You need to understand something, okay? John Goode knows how to write characters so real you will wish you had the ability to reach through the pages and shake and smack them when they do something stupid. But you also want to be able to hold them when they break. Laugh with them and be there with them when they celebrate the wonderful milestones in their lives. Because John Goode knows how to write.
Fans of the series won't be disappointed. What About Everything? has humor, strong characters, some light angst, and a lot of emotion.
If you're new to the Tales from Foster High series, well, this is not a standalone. If you haven't already read the other books in the Tales from Foster High series I would absolutely, strongly, recommend you do so. It's a fantastic series with characters that keep growing with every installment. This series holds such a dear place in my heart. Now go get this book!
Advanced Review Galley copy of What About Everything? provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Told mostly from the POV of Matt, Tyler, Sebastian, and Robbie this story in the Tales from Foster High series focuses on Matt and Tyler's relationship and Tyler's almost supernatural ability to sabotage his own happiness.
“I love you,” he interrupted breathlessly. “That’s what I was saying out there, that I love you.”
“And I love you too, Tyler, but those three words don’t change things. They don’t solve problems. They’re just words without actions, without changes, and we have been doing the same thing for too long now. I need something more, Tyler.”
He just stood there.
“This isn’t an ultimatum. I’m not saying you need to do this or else. But things need to change, Tyler, before we grow stale and we become roommates who have sex.”
When Tyler's good intentions leave him on shaky ground with Matt he gets advice about stepping up his game. This leads to a lot of hilarity.
I love the humor that infuses so much of this story, and damn, but it's needed at times. Because this isn't just a they sail away into the sunset with ease kind of story. No, this is a they had to work hard for it kind of story.
Because this story is all kinds of hilarious before and after you get socked in the metaphorical gut with all the feels. But make no mistake - your feels get a workout.
Beyond Tyler and Matt and their whole storyline there is Robbie and Sebastian, and lord knows I absolutely love Robbie and Sebastian, especially when they're dispensing advice and/or being the white knight, they were both spot on perfect.
“Sebastian, I don’t…”
“Yeah, don’t care,” he said, holding up his hand. “As your best friend, I need to… I am, right?”
I cocked my head. “What?”
“I’m your best friend. I mean. I’m assuming here, but we talk, like, every day, and I’ve seen your boyfriend’s junk, so I thought that meant we’re best friends, but I don’t want to overstep my boundaries if you think I’m just a bro or a normal friend.”
The only thing keeping this from being perfect, for me, was that there were a couple of scenes I would have liked to have gotten a better glimpse at that were off page. I'm not even talking about the sex scenes, considering they're mostly off page or lightly described, and strangely enough, that actually worked for me.
You need to understand something, okay? John Goode knows how to write characters so real you will wish you had the ability to reach through the pages and shake and smack them when they do something stupid. But you also want to be able to hold them when they break. Laugh with them and be there with them when they celebrate the wonderful milestones in their lives. Because John Goode knows how to write.
Fans of the series won't be disappointed. What About Everything? has humor, strong characters, some light angst, and a lot of emotion.
If you're new to the Tales from Foster High series, well, this is not a standalone. If you haven't already read the other books in the Tales from Foster High series I would absolutely, strongly, recommend you do so. It's a fantastic series with characters that keep growing with every installment. This series holds such a dear place in my heart. Now go get this book!
Advanced Review Galley copy of What About Everything? provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
September 29, 2024
4 Stars
Very pleasantly surprising, this was a nice break from the oft serious side of this series. Never fear though, Goode does not shirk from the tough topics, this time delving more into relationship dynamics and the questions that can inevitably arise with an established couple. How do two people progress to a more committed relationship? Should a couple join and mesh their lives for a deeper connection? Is there a shared future in 1, 5, 10 years?
Tyler and Matt have been together for awhile now, and though Tyler is obliviously content with the status quo, Matt longs for more. Tyler’s cluelessness hurts Matt deeply and in an effort to right some wrongs, Tyler books them a vacation of a lifetime and commandeers the help of their friends Sebastian and Robbie.
What stands out the most for me in this installment was the fun factor that is intermittently dispersed throughout the more sober/serious parts. I’ve never laughed so much with a Goode novel before, which says something about the typical, painful, no-holds-barred nature of his previous works (which is never a complaint). This had bite and snark, mostly in the form of the fabulous Robbie, that had me cheering emphatically for Matt and Tyler to get their shit together. Of course they do after going through many roadblocks, mistakes and fiascos, and one just has to sit back and enjoy their hilarious, but poignant ride, to happiness.
So it’s not all about how Tyler gets his ducks in a row. Matt too evolves and learns a few things, and inevitably they come out the better and stronger for it. As always, Goode brings the harsh truth to light. This time around, it was an entertainingly fabulous, good time.
Very pleasantly surprising, this was a nice break from the oft serious side of this series. Never fear though, Goode does not shirk from the tough topics, this time delving more into relationship dynamics and the questions that can inevitably arise with an established couple. How do two people progress to a more committed relationship? Should a couple join and mesh their lives for a deeper connection? Is there a shared future in 1, 5, 10 years?
Tyler and Matt have been together for awhile now, and though Tyler is obliviously content with the status quo, Matt longs for more. Tyler’s cluelessness hurts Matt deeply and in an effort to right some wrongs, Tyler books them a vacation of a lifetime and commandeers the help of their friends Sebastian and Robbie.
What stands out the most for me in this installment was the fun factor that is intermittently dispersed throughout the more sober/serious parts. I’ve never laughed so much with a Goode novel before, which says something about the typical, painful, no-holds-barred nature of his previous works (which is never a complaint). This had bite and snark, mostly in the form of the fabulous Robbie, that had me cheering emphatically for Matt and Tyler to get their shit together. Of course they do after going through many roadblocks, mistakes and fiascos, and one just has to sit back and enjoy their hilarious, but poignant ride, to happiness.
So it’s not all about how Tyler gets his ducks in a row. Matt too evolves and learns a few things, and inevitably they come out the better and stronger for it. As always, Goode brings the harsh truth to light. This time around, it was an entertainingly fabulous, good time.
July 7, 2018
Imagine my surprise when I discovered that book nine in the 'Tales from Foster High' series was going to revolve around a vacation taken by Tyler and Matt, and Robbie and Sebastian. I was a little in disbelief because I really wasn't sure how these two couples would handle being locked on a cruise ship with one another. I mean, let's face it, these four did not have the best beginning so I was stunned that they'd want to vacation together. Of course it made more sense once I realized a year had gone by since the events of book eight and during that time, apparently, Matt and Sebastian had become close friends who Skype about once a week. With Robbie and Tyler's friendship, I figured I was in for the ride of a lifetime.
“I love you,” he interrupted breathlessly. “That’s what I was saying out there, that I love you.” “And I love you too, Tyler, but those three words don’t change things. They don’t solve problems. They’re just words without actions, without changes, and we have been doing the same thing for too long now. I need something more, Tyler.”
I have spent a lot of time during this series wondering how Tyler could be as severely clueless as he seems. I guess it comes from hiding in the closet for so long, never dating or having a relationship beyond sex, and truly believing deep down inside that he's not worthy of being loved. Sigh. After a little over a year together I would have thought Matt and Tyler had made strides in communicating. Nope. No such luck. Thank goodness for Robbie and Sebastian - mostly Robbie - keeping it real and forcing Tyler and Matt to move forward emotionally.
All I can say is if the author's rendition of the Disney cruise ship with its smart rooms is accurate… sign me up! There were some hilarious moments on the cruise although Sophia, Matt's former friend from San Francisco, was there. You remember her? She did everything in her power to break Matt and Tyler up? Yeah, she's just gotten older and meaner. Again I can only say, thank goodness for Robbie and Sebastian. Tyler might have completely self-destructed on this cruise and I'm not sure where Matt might have ended up.
I know, I know, I've said it twice already, but I'm saying it again. I'm so grateful that Robbie and Sebastian were on this cruise. I truly believe that Matt and Tyler would have found their way, eventually, but their best friends made it slightly less painful. I'm going to go out on a limb here and assume that this is the final book in the series. That makes me sad, but oh what a way to go, John Goode. 'What About Everything' is perfect. It made me laugh, cry, sigh, moon over hot guys, laugh a lot more, and more than anything it reminded me how perfect the families we make can be. I've run out of adjectives to describe how much I loved this book. I can only say thank you and hope that's enough.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
“I love you,” he interrupted breathlessly. “That’s what I was saying out there, that I love you.” “And I love you too, Tyler, but those three words don’t change things. They don’t solve problems. They’re just words without actions, without changes, and we have been doing the same thing for too long now. I need something more, Tyler.”
I have spent a lot of time during this series wondering how Tyler could be as severely clueless as he seems. I guess it comes from hiding in the closet for so long, never dating or having a relationship beyond sex, and truly believing deep down inside that he's not worthy of being loved. Sigh. After a little over a year together I would have thought Matt and Tyler had made strides in communicating. Nope. No such luck. Thank goodness for Robbie and Sebastian - mostly Robbie - keeping it real and forcing Tyler and Matt to move forward emotionally.
All I can say is if the author's rendition of the Disney cruise ship with its smart rooms is accurate… sign me up! There were some hilarious moments on the cruise although Sophia, Matt's former friend from San Francisco, was there. You remember her? She did everything in her power to break Matt and Tyler up? Yeah, she's just gotten older and meaner. Again I can only say, thank goodness for Robbie and Sebastian. Tyler might have completely self-destructed on this cruise and I'm not sure where Matt might have ended up.
I know, I know, I've said it twice already, but I'm saying it again. I'm so grateful that Robbie and Sebastian were on this cruise. I truly believe that Matt and Tyler would have found their way, eventually, but their best friends made it slightly less painful. I'm going to go out on a limb here and assume that this is the final book in the series. That makes me sad, but oh what a way to go, John Goode. 'What About Everything' is perfect. It made me laugh, cry, sigh, moon over hot guys, laugh a lot more, and more than anything it reminded me how perfect the families we make can be. I've run out of adjectives to describe how much I loved this book. I can only say thank you and hope that's enough.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
September 6, 2016
p.s. this review may contain mild spoilers (i didn't include any of the good plot stuff) but we warned!
GAH! John has done it again! I looooooved, loved, loved "What about everything?"!!!
This was such a beautiful combination of hilarious, "melt your heart mushy", "bang your head on the wall and scream", hyperventilating, "die, die, die", "I want this to be real" and "happy tears" moments! As always with a John Goode book you're taken on a kickass roller coaster of emotions :D
You ever wondered what happened to the happy couple at the end of the movie/book? I did! All the time! Did they live happily ever after without any bump in the road? Was it all a perfect, mushy and boring moment after an other? Well... you'll get your answers here :D
Our guys' story pick ups a year into their relationship and although oblivious (but so endearing) Tyler is perfectly good with how things are, Matt wants more. Now before you go all "Well, Tyler? Why are you such a bad boyfriend and don't get a hint?" let me tell you Matt is not so good at telling Tyler what he wants either. They're like two bulls in a china shop or as Robbie so eloquently told Sebastian:
“Those two couldn’t count to twenty-one unless they were naked. Of course we’re going to help them.”
Yes! That's right! We get a huge dose of Robbie and Sebastian too!!! *waits patiently while you fangirl*
What follows is a "CAN'T BREATHE" HILARIOUS train wreak where Tyler tries making it up to Matt I won't describe because you have to experience it for yourself. Trust me! I am gonna say "Puppygeddon" was a thing. *starts laughing again just remembering it*
But Robbie comes to the rescue again and this is how all our boys go on a Disney cruise!
Now let me try to explain to you about the pantheon of animation royalty. Everyone assumes that there are two sides. On one side you have Mickey the freaking Mouse, lord of all that is Disney. On the other is Bugs Bunny, clown prince of Warner Brothers. The common mistake is that the two characters have equal footing, but that’s not true. Mickey came first by a couple of decades. He’d given up on Bugs’ slapstick kind of comedy well before the rabbit was ever drawn. So this isn’t a Coke versus Pepsi kind of thing.
This was a water versus 7UP kind of thing. One is necessary for life; the other is fun to drink from time to time. - Matt
*this was one of my favorite quotes in the book*
Now I want to say that the way John described this cruise is OUT OF THIS WORLD. I am in awe of the stuff he came up with! Really, John! I hope you're happy cause now I'm all heartbroken that this cruise doesn't actually exist and I can never go on it *pouts*
But maaaan, this was such thing to experience. I'm not gonna go into details, because I don't want to spoil it for you but if you're a Disney fan (or even if you're not) you'll think you have died and gone to heaven!!!
But of course after you get all mushy and happy and think "awww, look the boys are happy! this is perfect! " BAM!!! You get hit right in the nuts (or the boobs) and things start to unravel cause of course we had to have an evil bitch and asshole from hell come and ruin our fun! (you're gonna be shocked about their identity) and our two moose not are not a big help either. They are both so afraid of losing each other that they keep saying and doing the wrong things. I was constantly torn between hugging them and clonking their heads together!!!! GAH!!!!!!!!!! One things leads to an other and Tyler and Matt work themselves into a thorny corner and sadly hurt each other while trying to get out...(this was all a metaphor, there's no actually bodily harm being had)
With their friends' help, our boys have some revelations (seriously, Robbie and Sebastian are so cool is hurts!!!!) and start realizing that although they are both broken, it doesn't really matter if they're together... Those parts were so beautiful, John! Wow!!
In this spoiler you'll find one of my favorite (although heartbreaking sad) quotes of the book:
But it all works out and the end is ONE BIG PERFECT AND EMOTIONAL moment! (and not only because of Tyler and Matt.. you'll see...)! I ADORED this book!!!
But don't think that just because the book is over emotions roller coaster is over. Oh, no.. Because the author's note follows... Tough that last line made me so happy. So happy!!!!
All the love for John and our boy's story! Looking forward to the next one!
October 16, 2016
Belly-laughter humor and angst all rolled into one. No one does it better than John Goode. I love this series and this book just added to the boundless love I have for the guys from Foster, Texas.
Tyler and Matt are at a crossroads in their lives, only Tyler seems to be the only one that doesn't know it. In order to apologize for a colossial screw-up/to show his love/to get time with his guy/to keep the guy, he and Matt - along with Robbie and Sebastian - take a gay Disney cruise that doesn't turn out quite the way it was planned.
Tyler has come a long way from the young man that was friends with Riley and Robbie way back when, but he continues to be his own worst enemy. It takes all of the people in his life who love him to get that through his thick head. (I have to say that I LOVE some of the "come to Jesus" talks from his mother and Sebastian (aka Yoda) that nail the sources of his difficulties with relationships.) It was great seeing the pivotal moments of change for him.
This was a great book - LOVED the epilogue - but it caused such a thirst for more books about Foster, especially about Kyle and Brad, I just might have to go back and re-read a few of the others until the next one comes out. Thankfully, a nice sneak peek on John Goode's Tumblr for that next book helped out with my craving.
Tyler and Matt are at a crossroads in their lives, only Tyler seems to be the only one that doesn't know it. In order to apologize for a colossial screw-up/to show his love/to get time with his guy/to keep the guy, he and Matt - along with Robbie and Sebastian - take a gay Disney cruise that doesn't turn out quite the way it was planned.
Tyler has come a long way from the young man that was friends with Riley and Robbie way back when, but he continues to be his own worst enemy. It takes all of the people in his life who love him to get that through his thick head. (I have to say that I LOVE some of the "come to Jesus" talks from his mother and Sebastian (aka Yoda) that nail the sources of his difficulties with relationships.) It was great seeing the pivotal moments of change for him.
This was a great book - LOVED the epilogue - but it caused such a thirst for more books about Foster, especially about Kyle and Brad, I just might have to go back and re-read a few of the others until the next one comes out. Thankfully, a nice sneak peek on John Goode's Tumblr for that next book helped out with my craving.
September 26, 2016
Laugh Out Loud Hilarious!
So I remember the first time I read Foster High, how it was such an excellent combination of funny and sweet and drama. It was such a great book, from the story itself to the wonderful characters to the absolutely brilliant writing. I loved it. I feel the same way about this one as well. I totally will be recommending this book to everyone. It's this month's Must Read!
Matt and Tyler are at a pivotal point in their relationship. It's time to decide whether or not they're headed for forever or if they are just wasting time. Tyler is happy with things the way they are, what more could they want? But as he feels Matt possibly slipping away, he tries to show him how much Matt truly means to him.
When Matt’s parents’ anniversary party becomes center stage for relationship fodder, Tyler has major groveling to do. Booking a vacation on a gay Disney cruise with Robbie and Sebastian seems like an excellent idea. Tyler hopes it'll be the perfect place to reconnect
and figure everything out. Of course what starts off as a dream vacation turns into a lesson in trust.
I love Matt and Tyler, while it was hard not to see them as teenagers sometimes (they aren't the most mature men out there) I enjoyed their banter and one-liners. The way they seem to be talking directly to us the audience and not as just readers of a book but as a friend was great. Neither man is the brightest bulb but they are endearing, along with the rest of the Foster gang. What About Everything is an excellent follow up to the series.
5 Stars!
***A copy of the book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest and fair review***
So I remember the first time I read Foster High, how it was such an excellent combination of funny and sweet and drama. It was such a great book, from the story itself to the wonderful characters to the absolutely brilliant writing. I loved it. I feel the same way about this one as well. I totally will be recommending this book to everyone. It's this month's Must Read!
Matt and Tyler are at a pivotal point in their relationship. It's time to decide whether or not they're headed for forever or if they are just wasting time. Tyler is happy with things the way they are, what more could they want? But as he feels Matt possibly slipping away, he tries to show him how much Matt truly means to him.
When Matt’s parents’ anniversary party becomes center stage for relationship fodder, Tyler has major groveling to do. Booking a vacation on a gay Disney cruise with Robbie and Sebastian seems like an excellent idea. Tyler hopes it'll be the perfect place to reconnect
and figure everything out. Of course what starts off as a dream vacation turns into a lesson in trust.
I love Matt and Tyler, while it was hard not to see them as teenagers sometimes (they aren't the most mature men out there) I enjoyed their banter and one-liners. The way they seem to be talking directly to us the audience and not as just readers of a book but as a friend was great. Neither man is the brightest bulb but they are endearing, along with the rest of the Foster gang. What About Everything is an excellent follow up to the series.
5 Stars!
***A copy of the book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest and fair review***
September 23, 2016
I so enjoyed this book! Fast-paced and laugh out loud funny at times, this is a fairly angsty story, but none of it out of place to the plot, with familiar, well-loved characters from other books in this series.
I adore Matt and Tyler, but boy do they both have traits that make you want to slap some sense into them from time to time! Honestly, I think it just serves to make them even more likeable....more real somehow.
The secondary characters here, both the good and the bad, are beautifully done, Robbie being a particular favourite of mine. Feisty, sassy, no nonsense and all round awesome....if not a tad misguided sometimes, due mainly to his ignorance of Tyler's past. A good friend to have at your side regardless.
There are no overt sex scenes in this book, the physical relationships being implied and off-page, but in this instance, I preferred it that way. The story is a strong story, and just sometimes, the suggestion is enough.
Fun, witty, angsty, dramatic, frustrating, romantic and ultimately love-filled (no matter how long a round trip they take to finally get there), this whole series has become quite a favourite of mine, and one I would highly recommend!
Favourite line: "Nothing worth anything is easy!"
Reviewed for divinemagazine.net
I adore Matt and Tyler, but boy do they both have traits that make you want to slap some sense into them from time to time! Honestly, I think it just serves to make them even more likeable....more real somehow.
The secondary characters here, both the good and the bad, are beautifully done, Robbie being a particular favourite of mine. Feisty, sassy, no nonsense and all round awesome....if not a tad misguided sometimes, due mainly to his ignorance of Tyler's past. A good friend to have at your side regardless.
There are no overt sex scenes in this book, the physical relationships being implied and off-page, but in this instance, I preferred it that way. The story is a strong story, and just sometimes, the suggestion is enough.
Fun, witty, angsty, dramatic, frustrating, romantic and ultimately love-filled (no matter how long a round trip they take to finally get there), this whole series has become quite a favourite of mine, and one I would highly recommend!
Favourite line: "Nothing worth anything is easy!"
Reviewed for divinemagazine.net
July 3, 2019
I love this author's adult stories of Matt and Tyler. Great characters, who really struggle to change for the better. Wonderful secondary characters, and some laugh-out-loud humor. (Really! Not stupid "guy humor," but some really funny scenes and banter.) And a cool Disney cruise.
Every time I read one of John's books I go looking for some of his other tales, but I am SO not into high school (or even college) stories. I'll just keep hoping for more like this one.
Edited July 2019. Let me just add that I've now read all but the latest book in the Tales from Foster High series, and they were all excellent. Great characters and stories.
Every time I read one of John's books I go looking for some of his other tales, but I am SO not into high school (or even college) stories. I'll just keep hoping for more like this one.
Edited July 2019. Let me just add that I've now read all but the latest book in the Tales from Foster High series, and they were all excellent. Great characters and stories.
September 23, 2016
John Goode’s Foster High series is like crack for me. I will heartily admit that I nearly embarrassed myself falling over the opportunity to review his latest novel, What About Everything?, book nine in the series, and rightfully so because this author’s mix of emotion, humor, and living, breathing characters I believe makes for the best novels out there today. I will admit that perhaps Mr. Goode’s brand of snarky repartee is not for everyone, but that is merely one vehicle he employs to bring home the delicate messages he so often buries in his stories. While hilarity ensues, wrapped inside that witty banter is a hard earned kernel of truth—in this case, that everyone deserves to be loved despite the fact that we so often find ourselves far less than loveable.
Relationships often face crossroads after the honeymoon phase of glorious sex and twitterpated lust wears off. Such is the case for the physically perfect couple, Matt and Tyler, who are as mismatched a pairing as one could possibly find. Matt is ready to move forward, he is tired of living half out of his folks’ house, and the other out of Tyler’s. He wants, no needs, the stability of a partnership that has a future complete with a plan for how and when they will arrive at the final stage—marriage. Tyler is, well, Tyler, and if you recall anything about this man, you are already shaking your head at the idea of him committing to anything. He struggles with something as simple as what his next meal will be, so it’s a sure bet he is ill-equipped to figure out his future with Matt. He loves Matt, of that, he is sure, but he is hampered, drowning in his past mistakes and certain that he will manage to screw up any good thing that comes his way because in Tyler’s mind, he simply does not deserve to be happy—not when he has failed others in his past, repeatedly.
So when Tyler tries to make it up to Matt for being so reluctant to take a stand on just about anything relationship-wise, and makes a huge mistake at the vow renewal ceremony for Matt’s parents, desperate measures are called for, pronto. Turning to friends Robbie and Sebastian (comedy gold), a Disney cruise is lined up for the foursome and all seems to be a go until an old “friend” shows up and Tyler retreats when he should not, leaving Matt questioning whether they have any future at all.
I laughed until I cried–that is a given in a John Goode novel. What should be so simple—loving another–is so fraught with pitfalls, and these men leap in every time. It’s not just miscommunication that has Tyler and Matt on the brink of a break-up; it’s the fact that Tyler cannot seem to allow for the idea that his past should not define him. When we cannot forgive ourselves, Mr. Goode tells us, we can hardly expect to embrace happiness in any form when it’s offered. Forgiveness must start at home, and Tyler learns this the hard way. Matt is the most patient man ever written, but even he has his limits and every one of them is pushed in this novel. Through flawless humor, incredible moments of intimacy and support from the craziest yet most loyal friends ever, Matt and Tyler begin to realize that a relationship takes work and in order for it to stay afloat, one must recognize the life rafts floating alongside and grab hold of them.
I cannot say enough about this story. I love this series and perhaps that blinds me to any minor flaws that could be found in this author’s writing. However, I think anyone would be hard pressed not to enjoy this latest Foster High installment. Author John Goode creates real people who don’t always get it right—they work hard for every scrap of happiness they achieve, and that is what makes his novels so spectacular—for he allows the reader a chance to cheer on the underdogs he so often writes about, and, in doing so, he shows us just a little bit of ourselves through their story. In the end, he assures us we are okay—and we deserve love—each and every one of us.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach Reviews
Relationships often face crossroads after the honeymoon phase of glorious sex and twitterpated lust wears off. Such is the case for the physically perfect couple, Matt and Tyler, who are as mismatched a pairing as one could possibly find. Matt is ready to move forward, he is tired of living half out of his folks’ house, and the other out of Tyler’s. He wants, no needs, the stability of a partnership that has a future complete with a plan for how and when they will arrive at the final stage—marriage. Tyler is, well, Tyler, and if you recall anything about this man, you are already shaking your head at the idea of him committing to anything. He struggles with something as simple as what his next meal will be, so it’s a sure bet he is ill-equipped to figure out his future with Matt. He loves Matt, of that, he is sure, but he is hampered, drowning in his past mistakes and certain that he will manage to screw up any good thing that comes his way because in Tyler’s mind, he simply does not deserve to be happy—not when he has failed others in his past, repeatedly.
So when Tyler tries to make it up to Matt for being so reluctant to take a stand on just about anything relationship-wise, and makes a huge mistake at the vow renewal ceremony for Matt’s parents, desperate measures are called for, pronto. Turning to friends Robbie and Sebastian (comedy gold), a Disney cruise is lined up for the foursome and all seems to be a go until an old “friend” shows up and Tyler retreats when he should not, leaving Matt questioning whether they have any future at all.
I laughed until I cried–that is a given in a John Goode novel. What should be so simple—loving another–is so fraught with pitfalls, and these men leap in every time. It’s not just miscommunication that has Tyler and Matt on the brink of a break-up; it’s the fact that Tyler cannot seem to allow for the idea that his past should not define him. When we cannot forgive ourselves, Mr. Goode tells us, we can hardly expect to embrace happiness in any form when it’s offered. Forgiveness must start at home, and Tyler learns this the hard way. Matt is the most patient man ever written, but even he has his limits and every one of them is pushed in this novel. Through flawless humor, incredible moments of intimacy and support from the craziest yet most loyal friends ever, Matt and Tyler begin to realize that a relationship takes work and in order for it to stay afloat, one must recognize the life rafts floating alongside and grab hold of them.
I cannot say enough about this story. I love this series and perhaps that blinds me to any minor flaws that could be found in this author’s writing. However, I think anyone would be hard pressed not to enjoy this latest Foster High installment. Author John Goode creates real people who don’t always get it right—they work hard for every scrap of happiness they achieve, and that is what makes his novels so spectacular—for he allows the reader a chance to cheer on the underdogs he so often writes about, and, in doing so, he shows us just a little bit of ourselves through their story. In the end, he assures us we are okay—and we deserve love—each and every one of us.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach Reviews
September 24, 2016
This is the sequel to Taking Changes a Foster High Novel.
This book starts a couple years later with Matt and Tyler going to a party for Matts parents. After a misunderstanding, Tyler wants to make it right.
Tyler kept me on my toes in this book. I found it endearing and I finally felt like maybe they were growing up. They had the best friends in Sebastian and Robbie. I loved those two men as well, before the end of this book. I laughed with Tyler and Matt and at times wanted to hit both of for just not getting it. The two men lacked communication in the biggest way. You can tell they love each other but is it enough? Tyler truly messed up and now he is afraid he is going to lose everything. In order to make it up to him, without killing him, Tyler buys tickets to a gay Disney cruise. Drama and hilarity ensues. Still did not care for the former BFF in Sophia. I wanted to beat the ever loving crap out of her. These two had enough going on without her insight. If there is another book with these two men and their best friends sign me up I want to read it, and see what the future may hold for them. That includes Sebastian and Robbie as well.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by JoAnna from Alpha Book Club
This book starts a couple years later with Matt and Tyler going to a party for Matts parents. After a misunderstanding, Tyler wants to make it right.
Tyler kept me on my toes in this book. I found it endearing and I finally felt like maybe they were growing up. They had the best friends in Sebastian and Robbie. I loved those two men as well, before the end of this book. I laughed with Tyler and Matt and at times wanted to hit both of for just not getting it. The two men lacked communication in the biggest way. You can tell they love each other but is it enough? Tyler truly messed up and now he is afraid he is going to lose everything. In order to make it up to him, without killing him, Tyler buys tickets to a gay Disney cruise. Drama and hilarity ensues. Still did not care for the former BFF in Sophia. I wanted to beat the ever loving crap out of her. These two had enough going on without her insight. If there is another book with these two men and their best friends sign me up I want to read it, and see what the future may hold for them. That includes Sebastian and Robbie as well.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by JoAnna from Alpha Book Club
November 18, 2016
Amazing book with a perfect mix of funny and dramatic scenes. Oh, and I love the Stuff at the End of the Book.
July 23, 2017
Finally more about Tyler and Matt ! I love these guys ! If you're a fan of funny dialogs and Disney this one is for you ! is book shows that you're never too old to learn ;) you can never be sure of love so you need to fight for it and show your loved one that you care even if it means to step out of your comfort zone
October 18, 2016
OMG this book was fantastic. I loved every word.
I thought this was just going to be a catch up with the guys while on a holiday. I expected some laughs and a few sweet moments but not really much else, OMG I was so wrong!! This story was so much more.
This was a continuation of Tyler and Matts story, complete with all of Tylers self doubts and Matts hopes. I was torn between shaking Tyler or just hugging him. He really had me on the fence over which I wanted to do more lol.
There were plenty of fun times along the way. Not just with Matt and Tyler but Robbie and Sebastian too. I do hope we get to see some more of their story next too. The ending certainly gives me hope lol.
Talking of endings this one was so perfect for this chapter of this series.
I cant wait to catch up with all these guys again, the sooner the better in my opinion lol.
Lastly OMG I want to go on this cruise!!!!!!.
I thought this was just going to be a catch up with the guys while on a holiday. I expected some laughs and a few sweet moments but not really much else, OMG I was so wrong!! This story was so much more.
This was a continuation of Tyler and Matts story, complete with all of Tylers self doubts and Matts hopes. I was torn between shaking Tyler or just hugging him. He really had me on the fence over which I wanted to do more lol.
There were plenty of fun times along the way. Not just with Matt and Tyler but Robbie and Sebastian too. I do hope we get to see some more of their story next too. The ending certainly gives me hope lol.
Talking of endings this one was so perfect for this chapter of this series.
I cant wait to catch up with all these guys again, the sooner the better in my opinion lol.
Lastly OMG I want to go on this cruise!!!!!!.
December 23, 2018
*3.5 stars*
Dunno, I guess Matt and Tyler are just not my favorite characters for some reason. Or maybe it's all the Disney stuff. Anyway, it was good, I just didn't love it like the others.
Dunno, I guess Matt and Tyler are just not my favorite characters for some reason. Or maybe it's all the Disney stuff. Anyway, it was good, I just didn't love it like the others.
December 14, 2016
No no no no no!!!!! This series isn't over but this is the last one for now. I become a very impatient person when I have wait to find out what my favorite guys are up to!
What about Everything? is another amazing story, not quite the hair pulling, ugly crying emotional roller-coaster that When I Grow Up was but it's just as powerful and I loved it! This series has been beyond amazing so far, it's going to kill me when it's over!
I hope there will be another book with Robbie and Sebastian as the main focus, I've taken quite a liking to those two but I'll be thrilled for anything I can get.
There are a few little stories (the .5 stuff) in between that I can't seem to find so if anyone knows where I can get them leave me a comment I'd be forever grateful.
May 9, 2017
What About Everything is another engrossing part to the Tales From Foster High series. Even though this book is about people who once went to Foster High, they are all grown up, well numerically anyway. Tyler still had a bit of growing up to do before he could move forward with Matt, the love of his life. But with a few pushes in the right direction, you never know! As a big fan of all the Foster High Guys, I thoroughly enjoyed this one complete with humor, an amazing Disney experience, and a good dose of Robbie, one of my favorite characters. I love this series, and I'm always up for spending time with these characters.
April 7, 2017
How the hell did I miss this one being released?!!????
*Grabs book and holds on tightly*!!!!
*Grabs book and holds on tightly*!!!!
March 26, 2019
Ok, not as good as other titles in the series
Was ok did not like as much as the Kyle Brad series. Worth a read but low priority compared to the foster high series
Was ok did not like as much as the Kyle Brad series. Worth a read but low priority compared to the foster high series
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