What do you think?
Rate this book
Andre in Flight
When up-and-coming Miami artist Martin Fonseca encounters youthful pretty boy Andre Bellamy washing dishes in the kitchen of La Candela, he swears he’s known him before. But Andre only arrived in Miami weeks ago, after running away from small-town Alabama and his abusive father. When Martin discovers Andre trading sexual favors for a place to stay, he offers him a way out.
What starts as a playful friendship turns into something more as Andre begins posing for Martin’s fantastical portraits. Martin's infatuation with Andre grows until they are beyond innocent flirtation.
But when an eccentric art collector buys one of Martin’s paintings, Martin’s past jealousy resurfaces and threatens to destroy what he and Andre have so lovingly built.
This emotionally charged novella from Laura Lascarso pushes the thin line between an artist's love and obsession with his muse.
What starts as a playful friendship turns into something more as Andre begins posing for Martin’s fantastical portraits. Martin's infatuation with Andre grows until they are beyond innocent flirtation.
But when an eccentric art collector buys one of Martin’s paintings, Martin’s past jealousy resurfaces and threatens to destroy what he and Andre have so lovingly built.
This emotionally charged novella from Laura Lascarso pushes the thin line between an artist's love and obsession with his muse.
134 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2016
10 people are currently reading
279 people want to read
About the author
Laura Lascarso
30 books501 followersMM+ AUTHOR | Romance so good it hurts
Laura Lascarso wants you to stay up way past your bedtime reading her stories. She aims to inspire more questions than answers in her fiction and believes in the power of storytelling to heal and transform a society.
When not writing, Laura can be found screaming “finish” on the soccer fields, rewatching Avatar: The Last Airbender, and trying to convince politicians to act on climate change. She lives in North Florida with her darling husband and two kids. She loves hearing from readers, and she’d be delighted to hear from you.
Join her Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/LaurasLounge
Sign up for her newsletter at www.lauralascarso.com
Laura Lascarso wants you to stay up way past your bedtime reading her stories. She aims to inspire more questions than answers in her fiction and believes in the power of storytelling to heal and transform a society.
When not writing, Laura can be found screaming “finish” on the soccer fields, rewatching Avatar: The Last Airbender, and trying to convince politicians to act on climate change. She lives in North Florida with her darling husband and two kids. She loves hearing from readers, and she’d be delighted to hear from you.
Join her Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/LaurasLounge
Sign up for her newsletter at www.lauralascarso.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 20, 2016
FOUR HEARTS--
New-to-me Laura Lascarso is fairly new in the MM romance department. And she made an impression after reading novella, Andre in Flight.
I'm not sure how exactly to categorize it, probably contemporary new adult with a twist. The twist is everything that makes this story move. I'll try my hardest not give it away.
Set in Miami, twenty-something artist Martin works as a waiter in a Cuban fusion restaurant. His circle of friends is small, his love life is nonexistent. Other than a closeted co-worker who takes out his frustration on Martin since Martin refused him, he has no action. One day, he sees the new dishwasher, eighteen year old Andre who is full of youth and beauty. Martin's muse is captures. and there is something about the boy that captivates him. Is it his muse only? Or is it more?
The story is told in Martin's 1st POV but the reader definitely gets an equal sense of both main characters. Andre is essentially homeless, living in the worst neighborhood by exchanging sexual favors. Triggers: Past abuse, mentions of homophobic bashing. Martin takes the teen in his studio apartment...as a friend. It trips both of them out.
This is a period that I enjoy in reading budding romances, that getting to know the other person period. Hell I enjoy it in real life. Andre is a character and embodies eighteen. He's legally an adult, but sadly he's been through some rough things in his life. Sometimes he acted older than his years and then in the next page, he does something so damn eighteen!
Reading Andre and Martin move from roommates to more was great. I enjoyed the author's tone a lot. And even with the serious topics introduced, the story didn't read angst heavy. It was closer to realistic...for the most part.
Things I enjoyed:
Main Characters : both were men of color, Andre - African American and Martin - Cuban-American. And both men described a view of their world with a sense of their self. Andre, more so than Martin, he was young, black and gay in small town Alabama, where homophobia drove him away from home. Both men were characters and not caricatures with pretty skin tone.
The Twist : was not expecting it in the least though there were hints in the blurb. There's a point when it comes to ahead and I was shocked. That doesn't happen too often.
Things that weren't as strong for me:
Melissa : I'm unsure what side of the coin she's supposed to fall on. She's too ambiguous for me. (also, if Martin and Andre are subjects in this...game(?) What exactly is her story? How? I can see the why, though I think it could've went deeper.
Last 20-25% : The story gets the job done. It slowly unfurls with giving enough crumbs to move the pace along. But the last 20-25%, seemed like it could have been pushed further. Finding out the motive behind the story's villain(?) Why the main players? Will it happen again? Is there some mission? Ulterior motive? And the way one character just went away for a few weeks with no contact when they really seemed to be the puppet mater, just struck me as a little odd. I think I quibble because I wish this story was slightly longer.
Overall, the story is certainly different. It sort of has paranormal elements but ...not quite. Is there sex? Yes, but it's overly detailed and doesn't need to be. It's more about Andre and Martin's connections. There are miscommunication issues, so if you're a reader who gets easily frustrated with that plot device, it doesn't overtake the entire book. Keep in mind it's New Adult, so expect the characters to act as such.
I think Andre in Flight read like a current snapshot of working class new adults who become friends into something more. It felt as close to real life as it could get.
Recommended? Yes. A sort of sweet, low angst glimpse at relationship that seems to stand the test of time. It has a HFN ending, which I think works for this age range.
But it's up for interpretation, sort of like Martin's artwork.
I'll be keeping my eye open for more MM from Ms. Lascarso in the future. I want to read what other ideas she has brewing.
P.S. This cover? Nom nom nom!
A copy provided for an honest review.
'I've watched you sleep a thousand times.'
New-to-me Laura Lascarso is fairly new in the MM romance department. And she made an impression after reading novella, Andre in Flight.
I'm not sure how exactly to categorize it, probably contemporary new adult with a twist. The twist is everything that makes this story move. I'll try my hardest not give it away.
Set in Miami, twenty-something artist Martin works as a waiter in a Cuban fusion restaurant. His circle of friends is small, his love life is nonexistent. Other than a closeted co-worker who takes out his frustration on Martin since Martin refused him, he has no action. One day, he sees the new dishwasher, eighteen year old Andre who is full of youth and beauty. Martin's muse is captures. and there is something about the boy that captivates him. Is it his muse only? Or is it more?
The story is told in Martin's 1st POV but the reader definitely gets an equal sense of both main characters. Andre is essentially homeless, living in the worst neighborhood by exchanging sexual favors. Triggers: Past abuse, mentions of homophobic bashing. Martin takes the teen in his studio apartment...as a friend. It trips both of them out.
This is a period that I enjoy in reading budding romances, that getting to know the other person period. Hell I enjoy it in real life. Andre is a character and embodies eighteen. He's legally an adult, but sadly he's been through some rough things in his life. Sometimes he acted older than his years and then in the next page, he does something so damn eighteen!
Reading Andre and Martin move from roommates to more was great. I enjoyed the author's tone a lot. And even with the serious topics introduced, the story didn't read angst heavy. It was closer to realistic...for the most part.
Things I enjoyed:
Main Characters : both were men of color, Andre - African American and Martin - Cuban-American. And both men described a view of their world with a sense of their self. Andre, more so than Martin, he was young, black and gay in small town Alabama, where homophobia drove him away from home. Both men were characters and not caricatures with pretty skin tone.
The Twist : was not expecting it in the least though there were hints in the blurb. There's a point when it comes to ahead and I was shocked. That doesn't happen too often.
Things that weren't as strong for me:
Melissa : I'm unsure what side of the coin she's supposed to fall on. She's too ambiguous for me. (also, if Martin and Andre are subjects in this...game(?) What exactly is her story? How? I can see the why, though I think it could've went deeper.
Last 20-25% : The story gets the job done. It slowly unfurls with giving enough crumbs to move the pace along. But the last 20-25%, seemed like it could have been pushed further. Finding out the motive behind the story's villain(?) Why the main players? Will it happen again? Is there some mission? Ulterior motive? And the way one character just went away for a few weeks with no contact when they really seemed to be the puppet mater, just struck me as a little odd. I think I quibble because I wish this story was slightly longer.
Overall, the story is certainly different. It sort of has paranormal elements but ...not quite. Is there sex? Yes, but it's overly detailed and doesn't need to be. It's more about Andre and Martin's connections. There are miscommunication issues, so if you're a reader who gets easily frustrated with that plot device, it doesn't overtake the entire book. Keep in mind it's New Adult, so expect the characters to act as such.
I think Andre in Flight read like a current snapshot of working class new adults who become friends into something more. It felt as close to real life as it could get.
Recommended? Yes. A sort of sweet, low angst glimpse at relationship that seems to stand the test of time. It has a HFN ending, which I think works for this age range.
But it's up for interpretation, sort of like Martin's artwork.
I'll be keeping my eye open for more MM from Ms. Lascarso in the future. I want to read what other ideas she has brewing.
P.S. This cover? Nom nom nom!
A copy provided for an honest review.
December 24, 2021
there was not a single second i wasn't completely and totally enraptured by this story.
November 26, 2022
Read on Thanksgiving. So below are the reasons I’m thankful this story is over, and I never have to read it again.
Melodramatic artist and barely legal muse
One dimensional characters
Lackluster and unemotional sex
No kissing, no actual intimacy
These people are gross
Too much sharing genitalia
This story was weird
Is this even a love story?
This is so odd
The pnr element would have been so much better without being plopped down in the middle of the story, shocking the characters as much as the reader. What? Why? How??
I know this author can write beautifully, so I’m not sure what happened here.
Would have dnf had it not been for Dan, my hilarious BR who kept me entertained throughout with his theories…sadly none of which came true, but were way more interesting than the actual story.
Melodramatic artist and barely legal muse
One dimensional characters
Lackluster and unemotional sex
No kissing, no actual intimacy
These people are gross
Too much sharing genitalia
This story was weird
Is this even a love story?
This is so odd
The pnr element would have been so much better without being plopped down in the middle of the story, shocking the characters as much as the reader. What? Why? How??
I know this author can write beautifully, so I’m not sure what happened here.
Would have dnf had it not been for Dan, my hilarious BR who kept me entertained throughout with his theories…sadly none of which came true, but were way more interesting than the actual story.
November 16, 2016
5+++stars
If i should describe this with one word....? WONDERFUL I want to dance circles and sing and only whisper.......beautiful....beautiful ...
Some books can touch my heart and make my cry...this one did...
It was from a artist pov definitely.
The sentences could be from a poet because my god the lines were beautiful. I was completely captivated by them.
Andre the dishwasher, young, flawless and beautiful. Martin is head over heels. Martin just six years older feels so more mature then twenty-four.....Andre is all Martin can think of and he is start painting him in all the thinkable ways. When Andre becomes his muse and much more they are happy.
Until they aren't.
After a big contract it goes down hill. My heart cried. All the time it was to good to be true. You could feel it in the back of your head. Andre withdraw and Martin was stuck in his own head.
There is so much story but I just can't give details because then I'll give this wonderful story away.
Through the whole story you can feel there is so much more going on and when you find out.....it's some kind of magic. Somehow I knew it, I could feel it in the air. Beautiful....
It was such a exceedingly read. It felt like a movie, the scenery the moves, the environments from all sides. Those places is where the magic is happening.
The characters were exquisite, their blossoming love. Their longing....the hurt....the way they move around each other....and the love making was a like a graceful dance. I felt it all deeply.
The way this was written was absolute superb poet. It was perfect !! Deep bow.
"The bird in my chest flapped its wings wildly, desperate to escape its anxiety-riddled cage. I felt like chunks of me were breaking off at every turn"
"I was provided an advanced copy of this book by the publisher for review purposes."
If i should describe this with one word....? WONDERFUL I want to dance circles and sing and only whisper.......beautiful....beautiful ...
Some books can touch my heart and make my cry...this one did...
It was from a artist pov definitely.
The sentences could be from a poet because my god the lines were beautiful. I was completely captivated by them.
Andre the dishwasher, young, flawless and beautiful. Martin is head over heels. Martin just six years older feels so more mature then twenty-four.....Andre is all Martin can think of and he is start painting him in all the thinkable ways. When Andre becomes his muse and much more they are happy.
Until they aren't.
After a big contract it goes down hill. My heart cried. All the time it was to good to be true. You could feel it in the back of your head. Andre withdraw and Martin was stuck in his own head.
There is so much story but I just can't give details because then I'll give this wonderful story away.
Through the whole story you can feel there is so much more going on and when you find out.....it's some kind of magic. Somehow I knew it, I could feel it in the air. Beautiful....
It was such a exceedingly read. It felt like a movie, the scenery the moves, the environments from all sides. Those places is where the magic is happening.
The characters were exquisite, their blossoming love. Their longing....the hurt....the way they move around each other....and the love making was a like a graceful dance. I felt it all deeply.
The way this was written was absolute superb poet. It was perfect !! Deep bow.
"The bird in my chest flapped its wings wildly, desperate to escape its anxiety-riddled cage. I felt like chunks of me were breaking off at every turn"
"I was provided an advanced copy of this book by the publisher for review purposes."
March 7, 2019
I’m sad. I hate giving a negative review to an author I love, but this isn’t LL’s best work. I was interested enough in the setup to read the whole thing, but I never fully connected with the characters nor did I buy the story’s evolution.
I always second-guess myself in situations like this and wonder if it was just the subject matter that didn’t work for me. But the thing is... when I’m feeling the writing (especially the characters), all kinds of stuff works for me that I’d never have thought would. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen here.
Two of Lascarso's newer books, Hiroku and When Everything Is Blue, I absolutely loved. Her new releases are still auto-buys for me!
I always second-guess myself in situations like this and wonder if it was just the subject matter that didn’t work for me. But the thing is... when I’m feeling the writing (especially the characters), all kinds of stuff works for me that I’d never have thought would. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen here.
Two of Lascarso's newer books, Hiroku and When Everything Is Blue, I absolutely loved. Her new releases are still auto-buys for me!
December 24, 2021
4.5 🌟 Beautiful, unsettling, creepy, toxic, confusing, sexy. It starts out sweet, but something is weird, off. I couldn’t stop reading, but I was also dreading what the next chapter, the next page would bring. Lovely writing, I could see the paintings, the colours in my mind, and there was a surreal quality to the way every scene is written.
Read
September 9, 2018Time of death: 17%
Laura Lascarso is one of my favorite YA writers. I've read When Everything Is Blue, The Bravest Thing, and what I consider to be her masterpiece, Hiroku and she is going to be a forever autobuy for me.
Andre in Flight was published in 2016, way before the books I've mentioned above.
If this is the first book you read by LL, and you like it, good for you.
If this is the first book you read by LL, and you don't like it, give LL another chance and read one of the books I mentioned above.
This book was so mediocre I couldn't go on, because I know how well she can write. Curiously, her best works are self published, which makes me wonder if the editors at Dreamspinner press are a pile of amateurs.
Laura Lascarso is one of my favorite YA writers. I've read When Everything Is Blue, The Bravest Thing, and what I consider to be her masterpiece, Hiroku and she is going to be a forever autobuy for me.
Andre in Flight was published in 2016, way before the books I've mentioned above.
If this is the first book you read by LL, and you like it, good for you.
If this is the first book you read by LL, and you don't like it, give LL another chance and read one of the books I mentioned above.
This book was so mediocre I couldn't go on, because I know how well she can write. Curiously, her best works are self published, which makes me wonder if the editors at Dreamspinner press are a pile of amateurs.
March 14, 2022
4 stars ✧
Andre in Flight is such a special story with evocative descriptions and, overall, a poetic quality in which it was written. nail-biting disconcertment filled me with each passing chapter, but that says something since feelings like that only emerge when characters reach straight into my heart and i grow attached. the fact that this was accomplished in under 200 pages is very impressive. everything about this story felt precious to me.
i highly recommend going into it knowing as little as possible.
❝Would it be so terrible to be ruined by him?❞
Andre in Flight is such a special story with evocative descriptions and, overall, a poetic quality in which it was written. nail-biting disconcertment filled me with each passing chapter, but that says something since feelings like that only emerge when characters reach straight into my heart and i grow attached. the fact that this was accomplished in under 200 pages is very impressive. everything about this story felt precious to me.
❝My archer, my slumbering prince, my Andre.❞
i highly recommend going into it knowing as little as possible.
March 23, 2018
This book was just so unexpected. Initially I didn't actually like where ANDRE IN FLIGHT was raring up to go, mostly because one of the supporting characters just kept wigging me out, but then.. I don't know, either it settled, or I settled into it, and the resolution of it all.. I did find myself enjoying it.
I don't even know how to describe this. And I don't want to try for fear of spoiling it.
It's a little bit of a taboo romance, a little bit coming of age, a little bit mystery, and all about balance. The kind you find when you're with that other person that makes you better and that desperation you feel to hold onto it. The characters are occasionally frustrating, which makes them all the more real, and the description of the artist at work within the pages, and what he was created, was as stunning as the art on the cover of the book itself. But the strength is really in the ending and the journey these characters have taken and the one that is only just beginning for them.
Had this been a full length novel, I think would've rounded up. Or maybe if that unexpected element had been less.. outright and more vague, more feeling instead of fact, it would've been less jarring. I don't know. But I still liked it.
3.5 stars
I don't even know how to describe this. And I don't want to try for fear of spoiling it.
It's a little bit of a taboo romance, a little bit coming of age, a little bit mystery, and all about balance. The kind you find when you're with that other person that makes you better and that desperation you feel to hold onto it. The characters are occasionally frustrating, which makes them all the more real, and the description of the artist at work within the pages, and what he was created, was as stunning as the art on the cover of the book itself. But the strength is really in the ending and the journey these characters have taken and the one that is only just beginning for them.
Had this been a full length novel, I think would've rounded up. Or maybe if that unexpected element had been less.. outright and more vague, more feeling instead of fact, it would've been less jarring. I don't know. But I still liked it.
3.5 stars
November 15, 2016
3.75 stars rounded up
Laura Lascarso is a new-to-me author and with this novella, I found that I loved her writing style. The way Lascarso wrote about Martin’s fascination with Andre, the paintings he creates … they just came alive off the pages. It has a melodious quality to it. I saw on her website that she also writes poetry, so it might have been a factor. In any case, this book compelled me.
I wasn’t sure that Martin’s love and devotion towards Andre was healthy at first. However, I was happy that Andre was able to stand on his own two feet, worked on his own life without having to rely on Martin.
I am not going to say a lot more at this time. There is a mystery flair and a rather surprise element to Andre’s identity, and anything I write will further spoil the story. I guess one just has to read it for themselves to savor the moment of surprise.
Personally, I thought it made Andre in Flight slightly different than my usual contemporary read. For sure, this will be a memorable story for me. That’s not an easy feature to accomplish considering that I read hundreds of stories each year and probably forget the details to most of them within days.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
I had a problem with the dishwasher: I couldn’t take my eyes off him.
Laura Lascarso is a new-to-me author and with this novella, I found that I loved her writing style. The way Lascarso wrote about Martin’s fascination with Andre, the paintings he creates … they just came alive off the pages. It has a melodious quality to it. I saw on her website that she also writes poetry, so it might have been a factor. In any case, this book compelled me.
I wasn’t sure that Martin’s love and devotion towards Andre was healthy at first. However, I was happy that Andre was able to stand on his own two feet, worked on his own life without having to rely on Martin.
I am not going to say a lot more at this time. There is a mystery flair and a rather surprise element to Andre’s identity, and anything I write will further spoil the story. I guess one just has to read it for themselves to savor the moment of surprise.
Personally, I thought it made Andre in Flight slightly different than my usual contemporary read. For sure, this will be a memorable story for me. That’s not an easy feature to accomplish considering that I read hundreds of stories each year and probably forget the details to most of them within days.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
January 22, 2022
✽ 4.5 STARS ✽
Where does Laura Lascarso get her inspiration for such special stories? Each of her books is really something special, something that has not been read yet. She always include something different that draws you into the story. Especially when writing a novella, she still introduces so many special features that the story is great, albeit short - she really has the talent to make a short story not superficial and rushed, written quickly, but really leaves a deep impression, includes enough details.
This story also contains mild (?) paranormal elements (I’d rather call it mystical), which I didn’t know before I started reading, now I’m really happy to have read it, although I avoid all stories that involve paranormal themes.
Where does Laura Lascarso get her inspiration for such special stories? Each of her books is really something special, something that has not been read yet. She always include something different that draws you into the story. Especially when writing a novella, she still introduces so many special features that the story is great, albeit short - she really has the talent to make a short story not superficial and rushed, written quickly, but really leaves a deep impression, includes enough details.
This story also contains mild (?) paranormal elements (I’d rather call it mystical), which I didn’t know before I started reading, now I’m really happy to have read it, although I avoid all stories that involve paranormal themes.
July 11, 2018
This book was a complete paranormal delight! Andre in Flight is my second read by the talented Laura Lascarso and I must say that I’m becoming a big fan of her writing style. It’s smart, well paced, and intriguing.
At first glance this appears to be a normal, contemporary book set in Miami. Yet, one of the MC’s, Martin, becomes instantly obsessed with a new, young dishwasher at his restaurant. He swears he knows him, intimately. But Andre has been in Miami less than two weeks.
Along with this eerie sense of cognition, Martin is tormented by dreams in which his studio is aflame. He keeps hearing the name “Simone” mentioned by those close to him. What is going on?
Well, to find out you’ll have to read this lovely novella about a painter and a younger (legal) man. The writing was top-notch, and the characters deeply flawed and captivating. Oh, and let’s not forget sexy and hot!
Well done, Ms. Lascarso!
Here’s a favorite quote out of many (if this doesn’t scream love, I don’t know what does!)
“I fucking love you, Andre. Everything about you, the way you walk, the way you lean, the things you say, your smile, your cooking, your amazing abs, your tight ass, your cock…,” muscles, skin, bones, lips, scent. He drove me wild. The list went on and on.
At first glance this appears to be a normal, contemporary book set in Miami. Yet, one of the MC’s, Martin, becomes instantly obsessed with a new, young dishwasher at his restaurant. He swears he knows him, intimately. But Andre has been in Miami less than two weeks.
Along with this eerie sense of cognition, Martin is tormented by dreams in which his studio is aflame. He keeps hearing the name “Simone” mentioned by those close to him. What is going on?
Well, to find out you’ll have to read this lovely novella about a painter and a younger (legal) man. The writing was top-notch, and the characters deeply flawed and captivating. Oh, and let’s not forget sexy and hot!
Well done, Ms. Lascarso!
Here’s a favorite quote out of many (if this doesn’t scream love, I don’t know what does!)
“I fucking love you, Andre. Everything about you, the way you walk, the way you lean, the things you say, your smile, your cooking, your amazing abs, your tight ass, your cock…,” muscles, skin, bones, lips, scent. He drove me wild. The list went on and on.
Read
December 25, 2021I don’t know how to rate this. I kinda liked it and.. kinda hated it.
July 22, 2018
This story was stunningly beautiful.
The relationship between Martin and Andre was so sweet and wonderfully done. And I absolutely loved the writing style, very poetic and magical.
The relationship between Martin and Andre was so sweet and wonderfully done. And I absolutely loved the writing style, very poetic and magical.
December 25, 2022
Cannot feel the chemistry 😭
November 2, 2016
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
5 Stars.
To be totally honest, I'm not entirely sure how to review Andre in Flight- so bear with me, please.
Laura Lascarso is a new-to-me author, and I was more than surprised at the levels of emotion woven into the story. The main reason I'm finding difficulty reviewing is simply because I don't wish to give anything away.
The best thing an author can do for me is surprise me- being a writer myself, I can usually see the path the author is taking, along with the Band-Aids covering plot holes. I usually have to read a book rather quickly so I don't stumble and begin editing or plotting. It's a rarity when I can just read and find enjoyment along the way, instead of the tedium as if I'm working.
Lascarso surprised me because I didn't know where she was going with this, but I knew it wasn't an average romance novella with some heavy between-the-sheets action. There was something roiling beneath the surface, and I read feverishly to find out.
On the surface, Andre in Flight looks like the usual waiter meets dish-washer trope- one an artist and the other an aspiring chef. Thrown in is the age difference, the adult and the runaway minor, giving off a taboo vibe. The artist and his muse, on a journey of stardom... but that is not what the book truly is.
This is a fast-paced novella, for which I'm thankful. I believe if the book was any longer, it would have thrown the pacing off, then delved into fluff territory. I appreciate the ability to tell so much story in so few pages, without being beholden to word-count for the sake of word-count. For those who only enjoy longer books, know it was a fully fleshed-out concept from start to finish, with a beginning, middle, and end, leaving the reader to use their imagination by mulling over the emotions and reasons behind them without pages upon pages of redundant inner monologues.
This is a thinker piece. If a reader looks deeper, there are many layers to Andre in Flight, with a twist in which I won't describe. I'll be thinking about this novella even as I'm reading other books.
I look forward to read what Laura Lascarso creates next.
5 Stars.
To be totally honest, I'm not entirely sure how to review Andre in Flight- so bear with me, please.
Laura Lascarso is a new-to-me author, and I was more than surprised at the levels of emotion woven into the story. The main reason I'm finding difficulty reviewing is simply because I don't wish to give anything away.
The best thing an author can do for me is surprise me- being a writer myself, I can usually see the path the author is taking, along with the Band-Aids covering plot holes. I usually have to read a book rather quickly so I don't stumble and begin editing or plotting. It's a rarity when I can just read and find enjoyment along the way, instead of the tedium as if I'm working.
Lascarso surprised me because I didn't know where she was going with this, but I knew it wasn't an average romance novella with some heavy between-the-sheets action. There was something roiling beneath the surface, and I read feverishly to find out.
On the surface, Andre in Flight looks like the usual waiter meets dish-washer trope- one an artist and the other an aspiring chef. Thrown in is the age difference, the adult and the runaway minor, giving off a taboo vibe. The artist and his muse, on a journey of stardom... but that is not what the book truly is.
This is a fast-paced novella, for which I'm thankful. I believe if the book was any longer, it would have thrown the pacing off, then delved into fluff territory. I appreciate the ability to tell so much story in so few pages, without being beholden to word-count for the sake of word-count. For those who only enjoy longer books, know it was a fully fleshed-out concept from start to finish, with a beginning, middle, and end, leaving the reader to use their imagination by mulling over the emotions and reasons behind them without pages upon pages of redundant inner monologues.
This is a thinker piece. If a reader looks deeper, there are many layers to Andre in Flight, with a twist in which I won't describe. I'll be thinking about this novella even as I'm reading other books.
I look forward to read what Laura Lascarso creates next.
November 14, 2022
Creepy, but largely
unsuccessful. Early work.
Thank god she improves.
unsuccessful. Early work.
Thank god she improves.
November 12, 2016
4.5 stars
“Andre in Flight” by Laura Lascarso is a beautifully written story about soul mates and eternal love. The author has done an excellent job in capturing the emotions, longing, grief and creativity which will leave you wanting for more.
Martin Fonseca is an up and coming artist in Miami with immense talent. He has been trying to get recognized without much effect. Then he meets the beautiful and mesmerizing Andre. Martin is drawn to Andre like a moth to a flame. He cannot let go of the feeling that he has known Andre forever. Martin moves Andre to his home and soon his feelings grow from friendship/intrigue to love and then obsession. Martin’s manager warns him that Andre is going to be his ruin but Martin can’t stop drawing or loving Andre.
When an eccentric art collector buys his painting, Martin comes face to face with his past and the truth behind his frightening passion for Andre. They are both tied by fate and are meant to come together every time but will Martin be able to finally keep his love in this life??? Read to find out!!
I am seriously in love with this story. It packs a powerful surprise which has been crafted by the author beautifully. The mystery/secret behind Martin and Andre’s bond is revealed brilliantly. After the past comes to light, all the other clues given from the beginning amazingly fall into place. The story was fast paced with a heavy dose of intrigue and passion. The author does not delve much into the detail about Martin’s aunt and how she is able to find Martin throughout the years but it does not diminish the entire mystery from the story.
I loved both the characters of Martin and Andre. We get the story from Martin’s POV and we get to feel his obsession and powerful feelings for his muse. He is immensely talented and his creativity is described vividly in the read. Whereas Andre is a free spirit who has endured a lot of hate and just wants to be himself. He is taken advantage of but he does not lose his innocence and his beautiful soul shines through his kind brown eyes.
The “soul mate” concept is portrayed in a uniquely beautiful way in this book which made it a very interesting and engaging read. This book will stay with me for a long time. If you want to experience an age-old romance which is equally powerful and beautiful, then please be sure to read this amazing story!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
“Andre in Flight” by Laura Lascarso is a beautifully written story about soul mates and eternal love. The author has done an excellent job in capturing the emotions, longing, grief and creativity which will leave you wanting for more.
Martin Fonseca is an up and coming artist in Miami with immense talent. He has been trying to get recognized without much effect. Then he meets the beautiful and mesmerizing Andre. Martin is drawn to Andre like a moth to a flame. He cannot let go of the feeling that he has known Andre forever. Martin moves Andre to his home and soon his feelings grow from friendship/intrigue to love and then obsession. Martin’s manager warns him that Andre is going to be his ruin but Martin can’t stop drawing or loving Andre.
When an eccentric art collector buys his painting, Martin comes face to face with his past and the truth behind his frightening passion for Andre. They are both tied by fate and are meant to come together every time but will Martin be able to finally keep his love in this life??? Read to find out!!
I am seriously in love with this story. It packs a powerful surprise which has been crafted by the author beautifully. The mystery/secret behind Martin and Andre’s bond is revealed brilliantly. After the past comes to light, all the other clues given from the beginning amazingly fall into place. The story was fast paced with a heavy dose of intrigue and passion. The author does not delve much into the detail about Martin’s aunt and how she is able to find Martin throughout the years but it does not diminish the entire mystery from the story.
I loved both the characters of Martin and Andre. We get the story from Martin’s POV and we get to feel his obsession and powerful feelings for his muse. He is immensely talented and his creativity is described vividly in the read. Whereas Andre is a free spirit who has endured a lot of hate and just wants to be himself. He is taken advantage of but he does not lose his innocence and his beautiful soul shines through his kind brown eyes.
The “soul mate” concept is portrayed in a uniquely beautiful way in this book which made it a very interesting and engaging read. This book will stay with me for a long time. If you want to experience an age-old romance which is equally powerful and beautiful, then please be sure to read this amazing story!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
November 18, 2016
This was in 5 star, DIK territory for me; but in the last 1/4 it went out with a whimper rather than a bang. I guessed the reveal, which is alluded to in the blurb, but how the protagonists learned about it was meh.
All that said, great story, great characters, and location. Andre was a sweetie, Martin was difficult, but that was his nature.
All that said, great story, great characters, and location. Andre was a sweetie, Martin was difficult, but that was his nature.
November 28, 2016
I picked this up after reading a friend's review, and it was quite enjoyable. I kept waiting for the big twist, thinking that Andre was the key player there, but I was wrong and never saw what actually happened coming. So that was a nice change and made for a different twist on things.
August 14, 2017
What a book. What a light, beautiful, hard-to-review book.
See the mentioned genre of "paranormal romance?" That's true, but not in the typical monsters-and-magic kind of paranormal. It's the kind where the paranormal elements are subtle and almost metaphorical, and their revelation allows the reader to look back on the rest of the book and go "Oh, this all makes SO MUCH SENSE now." Yet at the same time, the author never fully answers all the questions, the why's and even what one of the characters truly is, and does so in a way that I didn't mind and in fact just kept thinking about all the possibilities.
While refusing to spoil what this paranormal element is, let me summarize the human element. This short novel covers the whirlwind start to the romance between focused painter Martin and the newly freed-from-home chef Andre, complicated by Martin’s manager and best friend Melissa who may know more than she lets on about the couple’s secret connection. While the pacing seems a bit quick in areas (particularly the beginning), the emotional highlights of this novel hit in all the right spots. The romance in this story is enjoyable, and not just when the couple gets along. It does help that Martin and Andre’s banter is often amusing, and they also usually discuss their lives and problems in an honest, healthy novel. Tension arises when there is a break in this openness, usually spurred on by Martin’s bouts of jealousy—a character flaw I’m usually wary of, but actually was compelled by once the mysterious paranormal element was revealed.
I must admit that while Martin was the protagonist of this novel, I alternated between enjoying him and being exasperated with his decisions. This is because while Martin is a well-rounded character, he is also an extremely focused man, and will drive toward his goal even if he’s unaware of the consequences. This can be endearing when his focus is on befriending and later romancing Andre, or when he wraps himself up in his paintings. It's what he does when Andre leaves that gives me pause—though Martin usually does realize what he’s done after the fact, so at least he has some hint of self-reflection. I do enjoy how the author uses various elements of his character (such as his jealous streak or his closeness with Melissa) to paint him as an unreliable narrator, allowing certain revelations of the plot to strike all the harder as readers see parts coming but Martin does not. In the meantime, Martin remains an endearing protagonist when he’s in a positive headspace.
Meanwhile, Andre is the heart of the story, a good-natured man who has finally escaped a poor living situation in order to be himself for the first time. He already starts with a fun personality (his banter is a highlight of this novel), and I also found so much joy in watching him open up and explore the world around him.
While some of the other characters presented in this book affect the story here and there, the main force in this plot isn’t the protagonists, but Martin’s friend and manager Melissa. While she at first seems like a close and protective ally wary of a fast relationship, it soon becomes clear that she knows more than she lets on. As her true impact on the plot unfolds, she occupies a dual space of being an ally and an enemy; Martin even wonders at one point if dealing with her is more like a devil or an angel, and never have I found the comparison more figuratively fitting. My only disappointment is that this is never answered; I don’t mind that the mystery is left unsolved, but when Martin makes his last deal with her, I do wish that the resolution had a bit more closure with her.
As for the setting, it is a vivid piece of work, particularly in regards to Martin’s living space. I can picture his home perfectly, from the rainbow lantern out front to the paintings turned to face the wall despite the perfect lighting, and attention is also paid to how the house changes along with Martin and Andre’s relationship. The house is almost a character on its own, which makes the ending all the sweeter. Miami itself is equally vivid, if painted in slightly broader strokes, while other locations such as Andre’s initial apartment are given details that wonderfully enhance the mood of their involved scenes.
Curious yet? Then give "Andre in Flight" a read; it's a quick story with a twist that will leave you thinking about it long after the end, while also serving up a sweet romance with artistic grace.
See the mentioned genre of "paranormal romance?" That's true, but not in the typical monsters-and-magic kind of paranormal. It's the kind where the paranormal elements are subtle and almost metaphorical, and their revelation allows the reader to look back on the rest of the book and go "Oh, this all makes SO MUCH SENSE now." Yet at the same time, the author never fully answers all the questions, the why's and even what one of the characters truly is, and does so in a way that I didn't mind and in fact just kept thinking about all the possibilities.
While refusing to spoil what this paranormal element is, let me summarize the human element. This short novel covers the whirlwind start to the romance between focused painter Martin and the newly freed-from-home chef Andre, complicated by Martin’s manager and best friend Melissa who may know more than she lets on about the couple’s secret connection. While the pacing seems a bit quick in areas (particularly the beginning), the emotional highlights of this novel hit in all the right spots. The romance in this story is enjoyable, and not just when the couple gets along. It does help that Martin and Andre’s banter is often amusing, and they also usually discuss their lives and problems in an honest, healthy novel. Tension arises when there is a break in this openness, usually spurred on by Martin’s bouts of jealousy—a character flaw I’m usually wary of, but actually was compelled by once the mysterious paranormal element was revealed.
I must admit that while Martin was the protagonist of this novel, I alternated between enjoying him and being exasperated with his decisions. This is because while Martin is a well-rounded character, he is also an extremely focused man, and will drive toward his goal even if he’s unaware of the consequences. This can be endearing when his focus is on befriending and later romancing Andre, or when he wraps himself up in his paintings. It's what he does when Andre leaves that gives me pause—though Martin usually does realize what he’s done after the fact, so at least he has some hint of self-reflection. I do enjoy how the author uses various elements of his character (such as his jealous streak or his closeness with Melissa) to paint him as an unreliable narrator, allowing certain revelations of the plot to strike all the harder as readers see parts coming but Martin does not. In the meantime, Martin remains an endearing protagonist when he’s in a positive headspace.
Meanwhile, Andre is the heart of the story, a good-natured man who has finally escaped a poor living situation in order to be himself for the first time. He already starts with a fun personality (his banter is a highlight of this novel), and I also found so much joy in watching him open up and explore the world around him.
While some of the other characters presented in this book affect the story here and there, the main force in this plot isn’t the protagonists, but Martin’s friend and manager Melissa. While she at first seems like a close and protective ally wary of a fast relationship, it soon becomes clear that she knows more than she lets on. As her true impact on the plot unfolds, she occupies a dual space of being an ally and an enemy; Martin even wonders at one point if dealing with her is more like a devil or an angel, and never have I found the comparison more figuratively fitting. My only disappointment is that this is never answered; I don’t mind that the mystery is left unsolved, but when Martin makes his last deal with her, I do wish that the resolution had a bit more closure with her.
As for the setting, it is a vivid piece of work, particularly in regards to Martin’s living space. I can picture his home perfectly, from the rainbow lantern out front to the paintings turned to face the wall despite the perfect lighting, and attention is also paid to how the house changes along with Martin and Andre’s relationship. The house is almost a character on its own, which makes the ending all the sweeter. Miami itself is equally vivid, if painted in slightly broader strokes, while other locations such as Andre’s initial apartment are given details that wonderfully enhance the mood of their involved scenes.
Curious yet? Then give "Andre in Flight" a read; it's a quick story with a twist that will leave you thinking about it long after the end, while also serving up a sweet romance with artistic grace.
December 3, 2017
2017 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Andre in Flight Laura Lascarso
1) The setting is particularly vivid, particularly in regards to Martin’s living space. I can picture his home perfectly, from the rainbow lantern out front to the paintings turned to face the wall despite the perfect lighting, and attention is also paid to how the house changes along with Martin and Andre’s relationship. The house is almost a character on its own, which makes the ending all the sweeter. Miami itself is equally vivid, if painted in slightly broader strokes, while other locations such as Andre’s initial apartment or Van Laar’s creepy mansion are given details that wonderfully enhance the mood of their involved scenes. While technically the paintings are more setting-accessories than a location on their own, they also bring life and character to any scene they occupy. The paintings reveal more than the characters themselves let on, like the hint of a whimsical nature in Martin’s style or the implied liminal states that Andre exists in as he finds his place in Miami. The evolution of these paintings reflect the emotional arc of the narrative, showcasing the stakes of the climax with Martin’s self-portrait.
2) This was a wonderful story, one left me holding my breath as I read, especially toward the end. It was fantastically well-written, with wonderful, believable characters. I love reading stories about broken and hurt men, in this case, young adults, then see how they build each other/themselves and become happy and whole men.
1) The setting is particularly vivid, particularly in regards to Martin’s living space. I can picture his home perfectly, from the rainbow lantern out front to the paintings turned to face the wall despite the perfect lighting, and attention is also paid to how the house changes along with Martin and Andre’s relationship. The house is almost a character on its own, which makes the ending all the sweeter. Miami itself is equally vivid, if painted in slightly broader strokes, while other locations such as Andre’s initial apartment or Van Laar’s creepy mansion are given details that wonderfully enhance the mood of their involved scenes. While technically the paintings are more setting-accessories than a location on their own, they also bring life and character to any scene they occupy. The paintings reveal more than the characters themselves let on, like the hint of a whimsical nature in Martin’s style or the implied liminal states that Andre exists in as he finds his place in Miami. The evolution of these paintings reflect the emotional arc of the narrative, showcasing the stakes of the climax with Martin’s self-portrait.
2) This was a wonderful story, one left me holding my breath as I read, especially toward the end. It was fantastically well-written, with wonderful, believable characters. I love reading stories about broken and hurt men, in this case, young adults, then see how they build each other/themselves and become happy and whole men.
November 5, 2018
Unfortunately, this one wasn’t as much my cup of tea as previous reads from this author (which I loved) have been. I think it was the power gap—Andre was so dependent on Martin for everything. And Martin’s constant emphasis on Andre’s physical beauty read as shallow, even though Andre becomes a muse to Martin’s brilliant talent as a portrait painter. While I really liked the artistic element, there was an unfolding in the plot at around 75 percent in that just felt weird and put me off. I’ll still read more from this author. This was a memorable story, despite some plot points not working out.
March 2, 2017
Martin intrigued me with his immediate and powerful attraction to Andre, and with his odd blend of intense concerns about Andre yet unquestioning acceptance of Melissa's demands. I could tell there's a deeper story. And yet the reasons, revealed bit by bit, are still a little startling and weird, though they fit. It all fits. I loved where it ended, knowing how they got there, finally. I trusted the author to bring it together, and she didn't disappoint at all. Recommended.
November 25, 2016
The mystery aspect of this story is like following a breadcrumb trail and at the end you can finally fit all the piece together. Beautiful! I like the twists and the romance is very sexy.
http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
November 29, 2016
I love this cover! This has a paranormal-ish twist to it that I wasn't expecting. I felt like the story was a little rushed and portions could've been expanded on to add more character depth.
Andre and Martin have great chemistry which I enjoyed.
3.5-4 stars
Andre and Martin have great chemistry which I enjoyed.
3.5-4 stars
December 4, 2016
I liked the story but it didn't fully engaged me, something in the characters and the chemistry beween them left me a little dubious. Anyway it's well written and well developed. 3 stars
Read
January 2, 2017Dropped at 6% because several things have already pushed my wrong buttons.
June 19, 2019
Wow, I was not able to put this novella down - Laura Lascarso once again blew me away with her beautiful writing style.
I loved the way she portrayed the characters; I really liked open and direct and honest Andre, it was so refreshing to read about a character who would just speak his mind.
Martin was equally fascinating. I loved the way he looked at everything through an artist's eyes - the author did a great job here by actually showing the readers that Martin is a painter and not just telling us once and then never mentioning it again. His character almost scared me at times, but in a good way. And because I had an inkling about where this story was headed, I was able to fully enjoy his .
I understand how some readers were put off by the ; I think I might have been too, if I hadn't known about it before I started reading. It is not something that Laura Lascarso did in her other MM books, as far as I know.
But since I knew, I was able to quite early on guess correctly that . That way, I way able to enjoy all the foreshadowing that the author masterfully did. I think if you don't know where this is going, you might just overlook it or find it weird.
This book was very intense, and I really wish it was longer! I wanted more build-up, more detailed descriptions of events that were just briefly mentioned. This book could've easily been twice as long without getting boring.
I loved the way she portrayed the characters; I really liked open and direct and honest Andre, it was so refreshing to read about a character who would just speak his mind.
Martin was equally fascinating. I loved the way he looked at everything through an artist's eyes - the author did a great job here by actually showing the readers that Martin is a painter and not just telling us once and then never mentioning it again. His character almost scared me at times, but in a good way. And because I had an inkling about where this story was headed, I was able to fully enjoy his .
I understand how some readers were put off by the ; I think I might have been too, if I hadn't known about it before I started reading. It is not something that Laura Lascarso did in her other MM books, as far as I know.
But since I knew, I was able to quite early on guess correctly that . That way, I way able to enjoy all the foreshadowing that the author masterfully did. I think if you don't know where this is going, you might just overlook it or find it weird.
This book was very intense, and I really wish it was longer! I wanted more build-up, more detailed descriptions of events that were just briefly mentioned. This book could've easily been twice as long without getting boring.
May 5, 2017
Una novella que se aleja de lo que estoy acostumbrada a leer. Me ha gustado cómo está escrita, la historia y los personajes, aunque carece de cierta profundidad debido al número de páginas. Sin embargo, aun habiéndome gustado, el giro paranormal que tiene le ha robado realidad, para mi, a la relación, no mi cup of tea, me hubiese gustado que hubiera explorado más la relación de los protagonistas en otro sentido. No comento nada del plot porque para eso está el blurb y porque nunca lo hago, mejor ir a ciegas.
Aunque el giro paranormal que tiene no es totalmente de mi gusto, me ha gustado la novella. Seguiré a la autora de cerca, ojalá que siga escribiendo cosas en la línea de The Bravest Thing, un YA.
Un último apunte, hay pocas cosas en castellano siendo uno de los protagonistas de ascendencia cubana y desarrollándose en Miami, pero lo que hay está bien escrito (para variar). El otro MC es negro y está ya muy desfesado aplicar siempre términos relacionados con la comina cuando hablamos de su piel o de personajes hispanos, etc... con una piel más oscura, piel caramelo, piel color miel... Ugh.
Aunque el giro paranormal que tiene no es totalmente de mi gusto, me ha gustado la novella. Seguiré a la autora de cerca, ojalá que siga escribiendo cosas en la línea de The Bravest Thing, un YA.
Un último apunte, hay pocas cosas en castellano siendo uno de los protagonistas de ascendencia cubana y desarrollándose en Miami, pero lo que hay está bien escrito (para variar). El otro MC es negro y está ya muy desfesado aplicar siempre términos relacionados con la comina cuando hablamos de su piel o de personajes hispanos, etc... con una piel más oscura, piel caramelo, piel color miel... Ugh.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews