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When It All Falls Down
"When nothing's left, what's left is what matters most." Maybe Charlie should have waited until he graduated high school before coming out, because since that revelation there’s been a growing distance between him and his friends. Charlie’s tough, though. He doesn’t mind eating lunch alone or watching his former gang interact with their new best buddy. What he does mind is seeing Drew Lavoitt suffer the same fate. Drew didn’t come out. As far as he, or anyone else knows, he’s straight. What Drew did is accidentally hit and kill a little girl. Now the boy who was voted Most Popular, and who Charlie has maybe had a crush on since eighth grade, faces financial ruin, expulsion, and the fear that if he’s not everything, he’s not enough. Popularity, wealth, acclaim—these things are easily lost. In each other’s arms, Drew and Charlie find something that can’t be taken from them. Together the two build a foundation on which they can re-create their lives.
176 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2017
27 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
About the author
Tanya Chris
60 books295 followersTanya writes in a variety of romantic and erotic genres, being an avid follower of many of these genres herself. Some of her favorites are M/M romance, MFM threesomes, and BDSM with male submissives.
Tanya lives in New England with her boyfriend and her cat and has participated in many of the activities about which she writes, but not all of them. It's left to the reader to decide which are which.
Tanya lives in New England with her boyfriend and her cat and has participated in many of the activities about which she writes, but not all of them. It's left to the reader to decide which are which.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
September 23, 2018
4.5 Stars
When It All Falls Down provides quite the emotional punch with its serious and affecting subject matter, but rest assured it’s also a really beautiful first-time love story between two boys who desperately need love and companionship in their lives.
First we have Charlie. Charlie is a high school senior who decides to come out against the advice of his friends. He wants to be himself and live openly as a gay man, even though it ends up costing him his friendship group at school and results in him having a bit of an isolated senior year. But at least his family are supportive and loving.
Then we have Andrew who used to be one of the most popular kids in school until a tragedy flipped his ideal life upside down. Now, Andrew has isolated himself from his peers and walks around school in a bit of a zombie state, clearly still distraught over his involvement in the death of the little girl he accidentally hit with his car mere weeks before. (Note: the accident was not Andrew’s fault, but the guilt he feels regardless is overwhelming).
When Charlie decides to approach sad looking Drew one day at school, he sets in motion the beginning of an unexpected new friendship, which blossoms into a romantic relationship based on the much needed comfort and unwavering support Charlie provides Drew in his most desperate of times.
After such an ordeal, Drew needs someone to care for and love him like only Charlie can. With Charlie, Drew begins to smile again and slowly, but steadily, learns how to forgive himself for his part in what happened. It’s not an easy or fast turnaround, but the positive influence Charlie has on Drew’s life (and even the lives of Drew’s parents) is undeniable.
I adored Charlie and Drew. They experienced some pretty heavy shit no eighteen year olds should have to endure, but thanks to the kindness and support of some really wonderful secondary characters, namely Charlie and Drew’s immediate families, the boys were able to overcome (or at least begin to overcome) some of their issues and truly thrive as a young couple in love.
I highly recommend this to any M/M fans of YA/NA stories, particularly ones that are a bit angstier and more sexually explicit than usual. This was both emotionally charged and romantically satisfying, which are aspects often more muted in the YA genre. If you’ve enjoyed books like Superhero, Kieran & Drew, Signs, Diary of a Teenage Taxidermist, or Social Skills, then it’s a safe bet you’ll enjoy this one too!
This is my only my second Tanya Chris read but it will certainly not be my last.
(NOTE: This cover has got to go! It did no favours to Christmas Kitsch and it does no favours for this story either. Please don't let the cover turn you off giving this story a try!)
When It All Falls Down provides quite the emotional punch with its serious and affecting subject matter, but rest assured it’s also a really beautiful first-time love story between two boys who desperately need love and companionship in their lives.
First we have Charlie. Charlie is a high school senior who decides to come out against the advice of his friends. He wants to be himself and live openly as a gay man, even though it ends up costing him his friendship group at school and results in him having a bit of an isolated senior year. But at least his family are supportive and loving.
Then we have Andrew who used to be one of the most popular kids in school until a tragedy flipped his ideal life upside down. Now, Andrew has isolated himself from his peers and walks around school in a bit of a zombie state, clearly still distraught over his involvement in the death of the little girl he accidentally hit with his car mere weeks before. (Note: the accident was not Andrew’s fault, but the guilt he feels regardless is overwhelming).
When Charlie decides to approach sad looking Drew one day at school, he sets in motion the beginning of an unexpected new friendship, which blossoms into a romantic relationship based on the much needed comfort and unwavering support Charlie provides Drew in his most desperate of times.
After such an ordeal, Drew needs someone to care for and love him like only Charlie can. With Charlie, Drew begins to smile again and slowly, but steadily, learns how to forgive himself for his part in what happened. It’s not an easy or fast turnaround, but the positive influence Charlie has on Drew’s life (and even the lives of Drew’s parents) is undeniable.
I adored Charlie and Drew. They experienced some pretty heavy shit no eighteen year olds should have to endure, but thanks to the kindness and support of some really wonderful secondary characters, namely Charlie and Drew’s immediate families, the boys were able to overcome (or at least begin to overcome) some of their issues and truly thrive as a young couple in love.
I highly recommend this to any M/M fans of YA/NA stories, particularly ones that are a bit angstier and more sexually explicit than usual. This was both emotionally charged and romantically satisfying, which are aspects often more muted in the YA genre. If you’ve enjoyed books like Superhero, Kieran & Drew, Signs, Diary of a Teenage Taxidermist, or Social Skills, then it’s a safe bet you’ll enjoy this one too!
This is my only my second Tanya Chris read but it will certainly not be my last.
(NOTE: This cover has got to go! It did no favours to Christmas Kitsch and it does no favours for this story either. Please don't let the cover turn you off giving this story a try!)
July 17, 2018
This is a bit of a hybrid book - the story is definitely YA but the on-page explicit sex (as opposed to just sex as plot) moves it into New Adult territory. The boys are both just turned 18, but still in high school. I'd consider it appropriate for older teens who are OK with the sex content. At first, I thought it was going to be a bit over-familiar as a coming of age story, but the characters and the slow build won me over by the end.
Charlie was never one of the popular crowd, but he had a tight group of friends. He came out as gay on his 18th birthday, and when his friends told him that was a bad decision, he found himself isolated and alone for the first time in his school career. Andy was the most popular guy in school, until he accidentally killed a little girl in a driving tragedy. Now everyone at school acts like he's invisible. Charlie decides that two guys exiled to their own islands might do well to stick together. It doesn't hurt that he's liked Andy a lot from afar, for years. But he's looking for a friend, not a romance, and Andy's pretty fragile and probably straight.
The characters are plausible and interesting, the parents and fellow teens neither perfect nor awful which is refreshing, and although a couple of emotional situations resolve rather maturely for 18-year-olds, I enjoyed the read. There are people who think that queer YA fiction books should model not just emotional relationships but sexual ones on the page, since LGBTQ teens don't have access to good information elsewhere. This book could serve that purpose too A low-key, positive, smoothly-written story of two teen boys finding their way forward.
Charlie was never one of the popular crowd, but he had a tight group of friends. He came out as gay on his 18th birthday, and when his friends told him that was a bad decision, he found himself isolated and alone for the first time in his school career. Andy was the most popular guy in school, until he accidentally killed a little girl in a driving tragedy. Now everyone at school acts like he's invisible. Charlie decides that two guys exiled to their own islands might do well to stick together. It doesn't hurt that he's liked Andy a lot from afar, for years. But he's looking for a friend, not a romance, and Andy's pretty fragile and probably straight.
The characters are plausible and interesting, the parents and fellow teens neither perfect nor awful which is refreshing, and although a couple of emotional situations resolve rather maturely for 18-year-olds, I enjoyed the read. There are people who think that queer YA fiction books should model not just emotional relationships but sexual ones on the page, since LGBTQ teens don't have access to good information elsewhere. This book could serve that purpose too A low-key, positive, smoothly-written story of two teen boys finding their way forward.
January 31, 2021
*** 3.5 stars ***
The bottom line: I enjoyed this and intend to try more by this author.
This read very much like YA until near the end, at which point it became more sexually explicit -- and the sex scenes didn't work for me. Normally I'm a big fan of genre mash-ups, but I don't think YA + explicit m/m mash very well. The inconsistency in tone threw me, and ultimately resulted in my rounding this down to 3 stars, rather than up to 4. But there was still a lot to enjoy here.
What worked...
- Charlie! At first I was a bit thrown by how mature he seemed for his age. (Maybe I've just been spending too much time with immature fictional characters?) But I developed a deep appreciation for him as someone making the transition from childhood to adulthood. He struggled to be reasonable and fair, to express himself honestly, and to curb his emotional outbursts. I came away feeling he'd grow up to be a man worth knowing.
- Tanya Chris knows how to turn a phrase. I ended up highlighting a lot more text than I usually do with a novel.
- Charlie's lack of insight into Drew. Charlie spends a significant portion of the story uncertain of Drew's sexuality, which keeps him conflicted about their growing intimacy. Is Drew just an open-hearted, affectionate -- and straight -- guy who's been so beaten down by experiencing loneliness and rejection for the first time in his life that he latches onto Charlie in gratitude for his attention? Charlie's mother thinks so. Drew's father might think so too. So Charlie struggles to keep Drew at arm's length, literally and figuratively, to avoid taking advantage of him... and to avoid the risk of having his own heart broken.
My impression was that Drew might be demisexual, although that possibility isn't explored here. This mystery about Drew's sexuality and motives worked well for me -- until it didn't anymore...
What didn't work...
- The lack of insight into Drew. By the end of the story it's apparent that he's gay (or bi or demi, I keep wanting to qualify). Yet that's not sufficient to give a sense of him as a person, of course. He remained a pleasant and personable cipher.
- While I liked that Charlie was mature for his age, there were just a few too many well-behaved, articulate, rational 18-year-olds populating the pages.
- Everybody learned their lesson and became a better person. Ah, if only that was how life worked! In particular I was disappointed with the resolution of Charlie's estrangement from his long-time friends.
- The HEA. No, don't panic -- there is one. But
My parting comment: This book needs -- and deserves -- a professional-looking cover, stat!
The bottom line: I enjoyed this and intend to try more by this author.
This read very much like YA until near the end, at which point it became more sexually explicit -- and the sex scenes didn't work for me. Normally I'm a big fan of genre mash-ups, but I don't think YA + explicit m/m mash very well. The inconsistency in tone threw me, and ultimately resulted in my rounding this down to 3 stars, rather than up to 4. But there was still a lot to enjoy here.
What worked...
- Charlie! At first I was a bit thrown by how mature he seemed for his age. (Maybe I've just been spending too much time with immature fictional characters?) But I developed a deep appreciation for him as someone making the transition from childhood to adulthood. He struggled to be reasonable and fair, to express himself honestly, and to curb his emotional outbursts. I came away feeling he'd grow up to be a man worth knowing.
- Tanya Chris knows how to turn a phrase. I ended up highlighting a lot more text than I usually do with a novel.
I’d forgotten he used to be their golden boy, the one they could never be fully proud of again. I had a momentary appreciation of how lucky I was to have a long history of fuck-ups under my belt already.
- Charlie's lack of insight into Drew. Charlie spends a significant portion of the story uncertain of Drew's sexuality, which keeps him conflicted about their growing intimacy. Is Drew just an open-hearted, affectionate -- and straight -- guy who's been so beaten down by experiencing loneliness and rejection for the first time in his life that he latches onto Charlie in gratitude for his attention? Charlie's mother thinks so. Drew's father might think so too. So Charlie struggles to keep Drew at arm's length, literally and figuratively, to avoid taking advantage of him... and to avoid the risk of having his own heart broken.
Drew’s sexuality was like Schrodinger’s Cat who was both in and not-in the box until Schrodinger opened the box to find out. At that moment, Drew both was and wasn’t gay. If I opened the box, I might not like what I found.
My impression was that Drew might be demisexual, although that possibility isn't explored here. This mystery about Drew's sexuality and motives worked well for me -- until it didn't anymore...
What didn't work...
- The lack of insight into Drew. By the end of the story it's apparent that he's gay (or bi or demi, I keep wanting to qualify). Yet that's not sufficient to give a sense of him as a person, of course. He remained a pleasant and personable cipher.
- While I liked that Charlie was mature for his age, there were just a few too many well-behaved, articulate, rational 18-year-olds populating the pages.
- Everybody learned their lesson and became a better person. Ah, if only that was how life worked! In particular I was disappointed with the resolution of Charlie's estrangement from his long-time friends.
- The HEA. No, don't panic -- there is one. But
My parting comment: This book needs -- and deserves -- a professional-looking cover, stat!
August 8, 2019
Check out my blog for more reviews and fun bookish stuff!
For full disclosure, I am friends with the author of When It All Falls Down, and she gifted me a copy of the book! ❤
Tanya Chris and I are writing buddies, even though she focuses on M/M romance and I’m strictly a YA/NA gal. (Goodness, so many abbreviations!) While still firmly in the romance genre, this is the most YA-ish of her books, so I was excited to give it a read. The premise is that Charlie is a high school senior who’s recently come out of the closet. His love interest, Drew, is reeling from a recent auto accident where he struck and killed a young girl. Both characters have a lot to deal with, their walls both self-imposed and terrifying real (a lawsuit with huge monetary implications, the possibility of having a college admissions decision revoked).
What I really liked about this book was the fleshed-out cast of characters. I was really feeling the chemistry between the two main characters (Drew is absolutely adorable!), and their family members and friends’ approach to Charlie and Drew’s developing relationship is handled in a realistic, grounded way that feels fresh. This mixed with the lawsuit details, which are incredibly real and well-researched, made this a fun, engrossing read.
For full disclosure, I am friends with the author of When It All Falls Down, and she gifted me a copy of the book! ❤
Tanya Chris and I are writing buddies, even though she focuses on M/M romance and I’m strictly a YA/NA gal. (Goodness, so many abbreviations!) While still firmly in the romance genre, this is the most YA-ish of her books, so I was excited to give it a read. The premise is that Charlie is a high school senior who’s recently come out of the closet. His love interest, Drew, is reeling from a recent auto accident where he struck and killed a young girl. Both characters have a lot to deal with, their walls both self-imposed and terrifying real (a lawsuit with huge monetary implications, the possibility of having a college admissions decision revoked).
What I really liked about this book was the fleshed-out cast of characters. I was really feeling the chemistry between the two main characters (Drew is absolutely adorable!), and their family members and friends’ approach to Charlie and Drew’s developing relationship is handled in a realistic, grounded way that feels fresh. This mixed with the lawsuit details, which are incredibly real and well-researched, made this a fun, engrossing read.
April 23, 2018
A perfect YA story.
Two lonely boys found their way to each other, when no one else gave a crap.
Charlie just came out of the closet, and though no one gave him hell, his friends turned their backs on him.
Drew was a popular kid, everyone loved him. The Most Popular Boy, they called him. He was friends with everyone, his parents were proud of him, and he even got accepted to Stanford.
But one fatal accident changed his life.
So now there were two lonely islands.
They gravitated to each other. Drew never had a girlfriend, never thought about having a boyfriend either, he only focused on his studies, but he liked Charlie, and it was mutual. So they started dating, but Charlie wasn’t sure if Drew was truly gay, or the recent events confused him, and he just wanted to seek comfort from the only person who was there for him. He’s hurt, and doesn’t think he deserves to be happy, after taking away a six-year-old girl’s life, even though it wasn’t his fault, but that doesn’t take away the guilt. Everyone thinks his the one to blame; the rich, privileged kid with a shiny car.
Charlie’s doing everything he can to help Drew realize, that he shouldn’t punish himself. He’s allowed to laugh, and dance, and go to parties; he’s allowed to live and deserves to be happy.
Meanwhile he’s trying not to fall in love with him, because after graduation they go their separate ways.
This story ends with a HEA, but you will tear up a bit. :)
Two lonely boys found their way to each other, when no one else gave a crap.
Charlie just came out of the closet, and though no one gave him hell, his friends turned their backs on him.
"I was the island—had been for about a month. While the other kids stood bunched in twos and threes around the room, I sat at my desk which was situated square in the middle."
Drew was a popular kid, everyone loved him. The Most Popular Boy, they called him. He was friends with everyone, his parents were proud of him, and he even got accepted to Stanford.
But one fatal accident changed his life.
So now there were two lonely islands.
„We’d fallen in next to each other, heading the same way down the hall even though I had no idea where his next class was. We weren’t looking at each other, just walking next to each other, but the eagerness in his voice was clear as day. God, how did Andrew Lavoitt get so lonely?”
They gravitated to each other. Drew never had a girlfriend, never thought about having a boyfriend either, he only focused on his studies, but he liked Charlie, and it was mutual. So they started dating, but Charlie wasn’t sure if Drew was truly gay, or the recent events confused him, and he just wanted to seek comfort from the only person who was there for him. He’s hurt, and doesn’t think he deserves to be happy, after taking away a six-year-old girl’s life, even though it wasn’t his fault, but that doesn’t take away the guilt. Everyone thinks his the one to blame; the rich, privileged kid with a shiny car.
Charlie’s doing everything he can to help Drew realize, that he shouldn’t punish himself. He’s allowed to laugh, and dance, and go to parties; he’s allowed to live and deserves to be happy.
Meanwhile he’s trying not to fall in love with him, because after graduation they go their separate ways.
This story ends with a HEA, but you will tear up a bit. :)
February 22, 2017
This is my review of When It All Falls Down, by Tanya Chris, from my M/M Romance Books Blog, OJ He Say. Click the link below to see the whole review and more.
When It All Falls Down by Tanya Chris
WHEN IT ALL FALLS DOWN
So… you’re thinking a YA book, right? Well yes, and it’s so, so much more. In reality this is a coming of age story more than a YA book, and in that it excels brilliantly! I didn’t know I needed a good, well written, gay coming of age story until I read When It All Falls Down. I was absorbed into the story and I could not put it down. What a sweet/bittersweet/enlightening story this is. Trust me, this is a great read, told well.
THE CHARACTERS
Andrew ‘Drew’ Lavoitt:
Andrew Lavoitt was never meant to be an island. He was the most popular boy in our graduating class after all. Literally. In our yearbook, fresh off the presses last week, there was a photo labelled Most Popular Boy, and the photo was of Andrew Lavoitt—lacquered dark brown hair and wide, dark brown eyes, dressed in a lime green polo and over-dyed skinny jeans, sporting a grin so sincere it didn’t make you want to smack it off his face, not even with the label “Most Popular” hanging over his head.
Charlie ‘Chaz’ Steger:
“Hair wants to be free,” I joked. I pushed back my own hair which hung straight, falling down to my shoulders. Most days I tied it up because the fine blond strands got everywhere… My dad didn’t bug me about my hair, but he bugged me about plenty. I’d never gone full Emo or Goth but I preferred the dark look—studded belt, heavy boots, a little black nail polish for special occasions. My dad’s objection was that I was stereotyping myself, that I was too cliché, but you gotta find a place to fit in somewhere. I might be smart and into computers and math, but I wasn’t doing the button-up geek thing full-on any more than I was the Emo/Goth thing. A healthy mix, right?
THE STORY
When It All Falls Down is a wonderful, enjoyable MM coming of age story, brought up to 21st Century standards and it excels in its delivery and execution.
The story of Drew, voted most popular boy in his class and now a social pariah due to a horrible accident that cost a little girl her life, and Chaz, geek extraordinaire that comes out to his close circle of friends only to be shunned by them, is completely riveting as an updated, gay version of The Breakfast Club.
As Chaz and Drew draw each other out of their somewhat self-imposed shells, we witness what we’ve all gone through as they come into their own selves along with their friends and school mates. The sense of wonderment and discovery, uncertainties and apprehensions, joys and fears in this book is simply, wonderfully brilliant in their honesty and delivery.
THE WRITING
Ms. Chris’ writing is uncomplicated, unhurried and extremely enjoyable. The story flows smoothly and grabbed me and hugged me so I couldn’t let go, couldn’t put this book down. I must give a nod to the editing in this book. Fantastic editing, well done.
One personal note: The book cover is so spot on that it’s freaky! I rarely comment on the covers, however this one couldn’t be more of a snapshot if it tried. It rocks!
When It All Falls Down by Tanya Chris
WHEN IT ALL FALLS DOWN
So… you’re thinking a YA book, right? Well yes, and it’s so, so much more. In reality this is a coming of age story more than a YA book, and in that it excels brilliantly! I didn’t know I needed a good, well written, gay coming of age story until I read When It All Falls Down. I was absorbed into the story and I could not put it down. What a sweet/bittersweet/enlightening story this is. Trust me, this is a great read, told well.
THE CHARACTERS
Andrew ‘Drew’ Lavoitt:
Andrew Lavoitt was never meant to be an island. He was the most popular boy in our graduating class after all. Literally. In our yearbook, fresh off the presses last week, there was a photo labelled Most Popular Boy, and the photo was of Andrew Lavoitt—lacquered dark brown hair and wide, dark brown eyes, dressed in a lime green polo and over-dyed skinny jeans, sporting a grin so sincere it didn’t make you want to smack it off his face, not even with the label “Most Popular” hanging over his head.
Charlie ‘Chaz’ Steger:
“Hair wants to be free,” I joked. I pushed back my own hair which hung straight, falling down to my shoulders. Most days I tied it up because the fine blond strands got everywhere… My dad didn’t bug me about my hair, but he bugged me about plenty. I’d never gone full Emo or Goth but I preferred the dark look—studded belt, heavy boots, a little black nail polish for special occasions. My dad’s objection was that I was stereotyping myself, that I was too cliché, but you gotta find a place to fit in somewhere. I might be smart and into computers and math, but I wasn’t doing the button-up geek thing full-on any more than I was the Emo/Goth thing. A healthy mix, right?
THE STORY
When It All Falls Down is a wonderful, enjoyable MM coming of age story, brought up to 21st Century standards and it excels in its delivery and execution.
The story of Drew, voted most popular boy in his class and now a social pariah due to a horrible accident that cost a little girl her life, and Chaz, geek extraordinaire that comes out to his close circle of friends only to be shunned by them, is completely riveting as an updated, gay version of The Breakfast Club.
As Chaz and Drew draw each other out of their somewhat self-imposed shells, we witness what we’ve all gone through as they come into their own selves along with their friends and school mates. The sense of wonderment and discovery, uncertainties and apprehensions, joys and fears in this book is simply, wonderfully brilliant in their honesty and delivery.
THE WRITING
Ms. Chris’ writing is uncomplicated, unhurried and extremely enjoyable. The story flows smoothly and grabbed me and hugged me so I couldn’t let go, couldn’t put this book down. I must give a nod to the editing in this book. Fantastic editing, well done.
One personal note: The book cover is so spot on that it’s freaky! I rarely comment on the covers, however this one couldn’t be more of a snapshot if it tried. It rocks!
September 15, 2018
4.5 stars from me for this YA story, which was extremely realistic insofar as the two MC's Charlie and Drew did actually have sex [albeit only messing around]; I mean, come on...how many 18 year olds do you know that haven't even attempted to at least get off together, let alone gone the whole way?? YA stories are all very well, and are one my favourite genres BUT please authors, don't insult our intelligence by either pretending that teenagers don't have sex, or whitewashing over the whole thing. I was young myself once upon a time you know 😉.
As far as this story is concerned, I 💜 Charlie and Drew. The main theme is a young girl's accidental death which is why I haven't tagged it as light and fluffy. I suppose you could call it a Coming of Age story as Charlie was already out but Drew wasn't certain how he identified until he became better friends with Chaz. We have misunderstandings with old friends, parents on both sides who just want the best for their kids and even an epilogue which hints at a HEA for the two, so yes, I loved it. It was fresh, realistic and well written.
I now have Aftercare lined up and may even go mad and take a look at Omega Reclaimed as my next foray into the ABO universe...Thank you Leta Blake for Slow Heat, and opening new doors for me.
As far as this story is concerned, I 💜 Charlie and Drew. The main theme is a young girl's accidental death which is why I haven't tagged it as light and fluffy. I suppose you could call it a Coming of Age story as Charlie was already out but Drew wasn't certain how he identified until he became better friends with Chaz. We have misunderstandings with old friends, parents on both sides who just want the best for their kids and even an epilogue which hints at a HEA for the two, so yes, I loved it. It was fresh, realistic and well written.
I now have Aftercare lined up and may even go mad and take a look at Omega Reclaimed as my next foray into the ABO universe...Thank you Leta Blake for Slow Heat, and opening new doors for me.
June 5, 2017
M/M. A wonderful YA M/M read. One MC is berailing himself for coming out while still a senior in high school. He went immediately from the in group to the out's (literally and figuratively). The other MC was Mr. Everything in high school until he was involved in an accident that killed a little girl and he became Mr. Nothing and withdrew from everyone, including his family.
These two MC's help each other to discover who they really are, how harsh they have been on both themselves and others around them for circumstances out of their (and everyone else's) control. Great writing (and reading).
Not a full 5 stars because the ending seemed a little rushed in the cleaning up of the open points still left in the story and a few of the resolutions I didn't really like. One, you don't settle a lawsuit for a million dollars for an accident that everyone agrees wasn't your fault. Two, you don't turn down getting into Stanford to go to Evergreen in Washington. Yes, it did get us our HEA but not going to Stanford when you have the chance? Geez. Maybe at least the Univ. of Washington.
These two MC's help each other to discover who they really are, how harsh they have been on both themselves and others around them for circumstances out of their (and everyone else's) control. Great writing (and reading).
Not a full 5 stars because the ending seemed a little rushed in the cleaning up of the open points still left in the story and a few of the resolutions I didn't really like. One, you don't settle a lawsuit for a million dollars for an accident that everyone agrees wasn't your fault. Two, you don't turn down getting into Stanford to go to Evergreen in Washington. Yes, it did get us our HEA but not going to Stanford when you have the chance? Geez. Maybe at least the Univ. of Washington.
January 19, 2019
4.25 stars
I really liked these guys.
One minor nit - I was annoyed with
I really liked these guys.
One minor nit - I was annoyed with
maybe
July 10, 2018Freebie at the 'zon.com right now: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
July 11, 2017
4/5 - This book is hard to rate because it was so full of that hurt/comfort vibe. On one hand I really wanted to love the MC's and the relationship that they had. Charlie was beyond sweet on Drew and they were adorably supportive of each other and entirely too trusting. Luckily for them, it's working out okay so far. On the other hand, there was so much hurt and not enough comfort.
This book was really emotionally heavy and while the characters did have a very loving relationship, it was still in the early days and they were really young. Books with young MC's and heavy subjects, especially in relationships ride that fine line of "too serious" vs. "not serious enough." This would have completely worked if Charlie and Drew were college students, but there was so much about this book that was just... I don't know. Drew and Charlie were both high school students, Drew just suffered a HUGE traumatic event and then throws himself into a relationship with Charlie, maybe partly to dull the pain of dealing with the tragedy on his own and maybe not, it's too hard to say, and then they make life-altering decisions all in the span of less than a year. I'm not saying that high schoolers can't make these big life changes, but I think their decisions were neither wise nor well thought out considering the circumstances.
And maybe that's what Tanya Chris was going for with this one, I don't know. I remember being that age, still with my first love. We thought we were going to take on the world together and I'dve probably done the same things Drew and Charlie did. So in that right, this book wasn't far fetched by any means. Chris really represented teenage love and I really did love reading about these two, I just think I would have liked this book better if they were a little bit older, personal preference.
But the other half of my mind is telling my opinions that they can go f**k themselves because Drew has been through some seriously life-altering shit and honestly tragedies like the one in this book really bring life and love and happiness into perspective. I was in this constant battle of "oh wow, that's a really wise thought" and "ahh, no, you're still a baby."
But this book was really good. This isn't my first Tanya Chris novel, but it's my first one that hasn't been 60% erotica and I loved getting to read another sub-genre from her. From the minute I opened this book I couldn't put it down. It was one of those that just hurt so good. I'd really love to read a second book about these two, maybe in their college adventures, because I really loved Drew as a character and I think there's a lot of potential for dramatic character development with him.
When It All Falls Down was another good read from Tanya Chris and I'm looking forward to what she does in the future. I would definitely recommend this book, but please keep in mind that it is a very emotionally charged story and I had a tightness in my chest for the better part of three hours while reading this book. Be prepared for a lot of feelings, both sickeningly sweet and sometimes hard to stomach when you're reading this book.
Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.
This book was really emotionally heavy and while the characters did have a very loving relationship, it was still in the early days and they were really young. Books with young MC's and heavy subjects, especially in relationships ride that fine line of "too serious" vs. "not serious enough." This would have completely worked if Charlie and Drew were college students, but there was so much about this book that was just... I don't know. Drew and Charlie were both high school students, Drew just suffered a HUGE traumatic event and then throws himself into a relationship with Charlie, maybe partly to dull the pain of dealing with the tragedy on his own and maybe not, it's too hard to say, and then they make life-altering decisions all in the span of less than a year. I'm not saying that high schoolers can't make these big life changes, but I think their decisions were neither wise nor well thought out considering the circumstances.
And maybe that's what Tanya Chris was going for with this one, I don't know. I remember being that age, still with my first love. We thought we were going to take on the world together and I'dve probably done the same things Drew and Charlie did. So in that right, this book wasn't far fetched by any means. Chris really represented teenage love and I really did love reading about these two, I just think I would have liked this book better if they were a little bit older, personal preference.
But the other half of my mind is telling my opinions that they can go f**k themselves because Drew has been through some seriously life-altering shit and honestly tragedies like the one in this book really bring life and love and happiness into perspective. I was in this constant battle of "oh wow, that's a really wise thought" and "ahh, no, you're still a baby."
But this book was really good. This isn't my first Tanya Chris novel, but it's my first one that hasn't been 60% erotica and I loved getting to read another sub-genre from her. From the minute I opened this book I couldn't put it down. It was one of those that just hurt so good. I'd really love to read a second book about these two, maybe in their college adventures, because I really loved Drew as a character and I think there's a lot of potential for dramatic character development with him.
When It All Falls Down was another good read from Tanya Chris and I'm looking forward to what she does in the future. I would definitely recommend this book, but please keep in mind that it is a very emotionally charged story and I had a tightness in my chest for the better part of three hours while reading this book. Be prepared for a lot of feelings, both sickeningly sweet and sometimes hard to stomach when you're reading this book.
Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.
June 25, 2017
Excellent YA novel which neatly sidesteps many of the tropes. Plenty of reality-based angst, but not on the expected themes of homophobia and secrecy.
I loved all of the characters: both sets of parents, including steps and exes; an annoying brother who was not annoying; friend groups on both sides who were thrown into disarray when the unspeakable event in the blurb happened. And then there were the stock cliche characters who did not appear: the jealous girlfriend, the closeted bully, the precocious five-year-old.
The central conflict was believable and earnestly handled: is Drew’s new interest in Charles a product of his devastating emotional need, or is it based on something more lasting? Sex scenes, and the whole issue of sex in their relationship, were apt and not overdone. The ending was realistic, plausible, and happy.
Ok, there was one trope: . But it’s forgiven. ;-)
Five stars.
I loved all of the characters: both sets of parents, including steps and exes; an annoying brother who was not annoying; friend groups on both sides who were thrown into disarray when the unspeakable event in the blurb happened. And then there were the stock cliche characters who did not appear: the jealous girlfriend, the closeted bully, the precocious five-year-old.
The central conflict was believable and earnestly handled: is Drew’s new interest in Charles a product of his devastating emotional need, or is it based on something more lasting? Sex scenes, and the whole issue of sex in their relationship, were apt and not overdone. The ending was realistic, plausible, and happy.
Ok, there was one trope: . But it’s forgiven. ;-)
Five stars.
February 12, 2017
>: Charlie is a very self-assured, focused guy who knows what he wants and where he’s going in life. I felt the fact that this is told in first person by Charlie completely fits his personality. He sort of views himself as a geek but Charlie is really confident. He may be only 18 and a high school senior, but he’s not going to hide himself for anyone. Of course, the fact that once he came out in senior year he suddenly no longer hangs out with his group of friends, even his best friend, makes that a little difficult but hey, high school is nearly over and he’ll be going to college. It’s okay. He can be an island for a few months.
What is not okay if seeing Andrew Lavoitt, Most Popular Boy, the one everyone likes and everyone wants to talk to, being an island. That is unacceptable, so Charlie makes the effort in Calculus to go over and talk to Andrew. Andrew was driving one day and accidentally hit and killed a little girl. Complete accident, yes, but he feels huge amounts of guilt about it. Plus, people talk and because his family has money they tend to think he doesn’t care. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Charlie starts off his talk with Andrew with a lie about gaming systems, mainly because he’s also had a bit of a crush on Andrew since they were kids so he’s a little nervous. But he can’t stand to see it. “The world had taken Really Perfect Guy out of his box and thrown him down on the ground and walked away.” Charlie doesn’t like that one bit. It takes a bit of effort but Charlie manages to get Andrew, who he calls Drew, smiling a little and talking some. Drew really is paying emotionally for that accident and he’s not able to drive, face people, do things. He’s dropped out of all clubs, no longer talks to his friends, just feels he doesn’t deserve to be happy. It’s so sad and so realistic.
Something I absolutely loved about this book was the families of both Drew and Charlie. They aren’t perfect by any means but they love their sons and they are trying. When Charlie brings Drew over for the first time he makes a point to tell his mom and his little brother, Noah, not to be weird around Drew. The visit starts off with Noah noticing who Drew is and Drew withdrawing back into himself and Charlie “… wondering if it I’d made a mistake bringing him here.” It ends with Noah being obnoxious and getting a face full of rug, with Charlie later, “Thanks for being nice to him. I mean, horrible. Thanks for being horrible to him.” Drew’s family is a different in that they don’t know what to say to make Drew come back to them. They are pathetically grateful for Charlie.
At first, I couldn’t decide – is Drew gay or is he, like Charlie’s mom thinks, just depending on Charlie and once his life comes back together will he go back to the straight life he had before. “You think Drew’s only with me because he’s depressed? ….You don’t think he likes me? Why wouldn’t he like me? I’m not good enough to date him unless he’s damaged?” But as the story progresses, you don’t feel like that anymore. Drew might not have been out before, but he knows who he is. “Oh my God, stop. You’re not gay enough to be such a drama queen.” But he is gay, enough.
Despite the serious tone of the book, the angst level is not over the top. There is a somber quality to portions of it, which there has to be due to the backdrop of Drew’s accident, but there is also some lightness and honestly, some misunderstandings between friends that seemed totally realistic, particularly when you remember that these are high school students. Despite Charlie’s seemingly incredible maturity (come on, the man was hitting up Grindr in high school). Charlie’s separation from his friends plays into things as well and it’s here that you get the view of him as he is – an 18-year-old high school student who’s maybe a little insecure.
There were times I just loved how people talked. “I mean, I’m useless in an actual fight, but I’d have stood next to you while you got beat up.” Now, that’s a realistic friend. There is a lot for Drew to face, both related to the accident and within himself and it’s a little painful to read but it’s so worth it.
I loved them together. Yes, I know they are young, just out of high school, but there is hope and promise here, even as Charlie is so afraid of what will happen once they are off to different states for college. It’s the journey that makes this worth it.
This is a new to me author and I went back and forth on what to rate this; 4? 4.5? Is it a perfect book? Then I realized that I started it and stayed up until 3 in the morning to finish it, then went back the next day to make sure I didn’t miss anything. So there was nothing I could do but rate it 5 hearts, something I do so rarely. YA fans, especially, so highly recommended.
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
What is not okay if seeing Andrew Lavoitt, Most Popular Boy, the one everyone likes and everyone wants to talk to, being an island. That is unacceptable, so Charlie makes the effort in Calculus to go over and talk to Andrew. Andrew was driving one day and accidentally hit and killed a little girl. Complete accident, yes, but he feels huge amounts of guilt about it. Plus, people talk and because his family has money they tend to think he doesn’t care. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Charlie starts off his talk with Andrew with a lie about gaming systems, mainly because he’s also had a bit of a crush on Andrew since they were kids so he’s a little nervous. But he can’t stand to see it. “The world had taken Really Perfect Guy out of his box and thrown him down on the ground and walked away.” Charlie doesn’t like that one bit. It takes a bit of effort but Charlie manages to get Andrew, who he calls Drew, smiling a little and talking some. Drew really is paying emotionally for that accident and he’s not able to drive, face people, do things. He’s dropped out of all clubs, no longer talks to his friends, just feels he doesn’t deserve to be happy. It’s so sad and so realistic.
Something I absolutely loved about this book was the families of both Drew and Charlie. They aren’t perfect by any means but they love their sons and they are trying. When Charlie brings Drew over for the first time he makes a point to tell his mom and his little brother, Noah, not to be weird around Drew. The visit starts off with Noah noticing who Drew is and Drew withdrawing back into himself and Charlie “… wondering if it I’d made a mistake bringing him here.” It ends with Noah being obnoxious and getting a face full of rug, with Charlie later, “Thanks for being nice to him. I mean, horrible. Thanks for being horrible to him.” Drew’s family is a different in that they don’t know what to say to make Drew come back to them. They are pathetically grateful for Charlie.
At first, I couldn’t decide – is Drew gay or is he, like Charlie’s mom thinks, just depending on Charlie and once his life comes back together will he go back to the straight life he had before. “You think Drew’s only with me because he’s depressed? ….You don’t think he likes me? Why wouldn’t he like me? I’m not good enough to date him unless he’s damaged?” But as the story progresses, you don’t feel like that anymore. Drew might not have been out before, but he knows who he is. “Oh my God, stop. You’re not gay enough to be such a drama queen.” But he is gay, enough.
Despite the serious tone of the book, the angst level is not over the top. There is a somber quality to portions of it, which there has to be due to the backdrop of Drew’s accident, but there is also some lightness and honestly, some misunderstandings between friends that seemed totally realistic, particularly when you remember that these are high school students. Despite Charlie’s seemingly incredible maturity (come on, the man was hitting up Grindr in high school). Charlie’s separation from his friends plays into things as well and it’s here that you get the view of him as he is – an 18-year-old high school student who’s maybe a little insecure.
There were times I just loved how people talked. “I mean, I’m useless in an actual fight, but I’d have stood next to you while you got beat up.” Now, that’s a realistic friend. There is a lot for Drew to face, both related to the accident and within himself and it’s a little painful to read but it’s so worth it.
I loved them together. Yes, I know they are young, just out of high school, but there is hope and promise here, even as Charlie is so afraid of what will happen once they are off to different states for college. It’s the journey that makes this worth it.
This is a new to me author and I went back and forth on what to rate this; 4? 4.5? Is it a perfect book? Then I realized that I started it and stayed up until 3 in the morning to finish it, then went back the next day to make sure I didn’t miss anything. So there was nothing I could do but rate it 5 hearts, something I do so rarely. YA fans, especially, so highly recommended.
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
March 5, 2017
My Kindle notes say: Great story, happy vibe, positive vibe, and I think this sums up the book nicely. It seems from the blurb that this could be a real drama driven book, with teen angst all over the place - but it wasn't. Whilst some of the events in this story were sad and some difficult to deal with, the story as a whole was positive. It showed how people, in this case teens, cope and deal with circumstances beyond their control.
The character of Charlie was interesting to me. Often we see how bad coming out is for teens, in this book though, Charlie, for the most part, actually expected a worse reaction from people than what he got. I know that this is far, far from the experience of many people coming out. It gives me hope though, that the future of GBLTQ people is better than that of the past. My first reaction was to think that such positivity was unrealistic - then I thought about all the prom proposal videos that circle each year featuring GBLTQ youth and I realised that things are getting better.
Younger generations, for a good part, don't discriminate. They stand behind their peers and celebrate the diversity of their generation. (Too) slowly things are changing for the better. Or at least they have been, but this is a book review, not a political statement. My point is, that Charlie expected negativity when he came out. He actually read it in places that it wasn't, in his group of friends, with his father... His expectations were of the worst, and it didn't turn out that way. I really hope that this is the case for the very near future.
Drew, I felt incredibly sorry for. He'd accidentally killed a 6 year old, through no fault of his own. An unpreventable accident - how devastating this must be. I've driven for 22 years and I've yet to enjoy it for exactly that reason, the fear of the damage a car can do in a moment of time. I can't imagine the enormous pressure and guilt (that most useless of emotions) Drew is under. He is coming to terms with it, so is his family and the people where they live. My heart ached for him.Then Charlie - brave and strong and hating seeing Drew on his own - spoke to Drew and changed the course of both their lives.
A really great story, I would recommend this to romance lovers and YA fans.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
Review previously at BMBR
The character of Charlie was interesting to me. Often we see how bad coming out is for teens, in this book though, Charlie, for the most part, actually expected a worse reaction from people than what he got. I know that this is far, far from the experience of many people coming out. It gives me hope though, that the future of GBLTQ people is better than that of the past. My first reaction was to think that such positivity was unrealistic - then I thought about all the prom proposal videos that circle each year featuring GBLTQ youth and I realised that things are getting better.
Younger generations, for a good part, don't discriminate. They stand behind their peers and celebrate the diversity of their generation. (Too) slowly things are changing for the better. Or at least they have been, but this is a book review, not a political statement. My point is, that Charlie expected negativity when he came out. He actually read it in places that it wasn't, in his group of friends, with his father... His expectations were of the worst, and it didn't turn out that way. I really hope that this is the case for the very near future.
Drew, I felt incredibly sorry for. He'd accidentally killed a 6 year old, through no fault of his own. An unpreventable accident - how devastating this must be. I've driven for 22 years and I've yet to enjoy it for exactly that reason, the fear of the damage a car can do in a moment of time. I can't imagine the enormous pressure and guilt (that most useless of emotions) Drew is under. He is coming to terms with it, so is his family and the people where they live. My heart ached for him.Then Charlie - brave and strong and hating seeing Drew on his own - spoke to Drew and changed the course of both their lives.
A really great story, I would recommend this to romance lovers and YA fans.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
Review previously at BMBR
March 12, 2017
Ok, first things first...
I knew going into this one, there would be depressing topics, sad ones. We know that Drew had a car accident where a young girl was fatally injured. There is no sugar coating that, it was very sad, especially for her parents, as it rightfully would be. I could understand their anger, their hurt and I knew where they were coming from. Grief makes you do crazy things, doesn't it?
Through that, and the accident, it caused everyone to kind of shut themselves off to Drew, wether it be becuase they didn't know what to say, or they blamed him... I hated that for him, I couldn't even imagine... and he was back at school, days later? That was ridiculous. I wasn't a fan of his parents for that, even though I knew they were just trying to get things back to normal.... it was really soon and I wish they'd been more sympathetic.
Charlie... he's amazing. I didn't picture him as the guy on the cover; matter of fact, I wasn't a fan of the cover. I know you're not supposed to judge a book by it, literally in this sense, but.... I woulda skipped it, had I had to go on cover alone, which I'll admit, I sometimes do...
Anyway... enough of my shallow-ness over the cover. Charlie was amazing. He saw that Drew, one time Mr. Popular and crush from middle school, was alone on his own little island in the land of high-school. He wanted to help him.... Charlie was so genuine and selfless and patient and kind. I did at first think that it was kind of a co-dependant kind of relationship. I didn't think Charlie was taking advantage but I can admit at first, I thought he was just nice and Drew needed it.
And in a way it was true, Drew did need it, he needed Charlie in a bad way... Charlie made things better, but not because he was someone to lean on, but because Charlie was just what he needed. He made it okay for Drew to need someone to lean on and he made him start living again.
I loved how both guys had the best friends, even if they all kind of forgot that for a while, they all came together and pulled through as the awesome friends that they were, in the end.
This story is one of heartache and tradgedy, but hopefulness and growth. I adored how it ended and I'd love to read more about these two! Their lives were just getting started together and it was perfect.
Great read, 4 stars for me!
I knew going into this one, there would be depressing topics, sad ones. We know that Drew had a car accident where a young girl was fatally injured. There is no sugar coating that, it was very sad, especially for her parents, as it rightfully would be. I could understand their anger, their hurt and I knew where they were coming from. Grief makes you do crazy things, doesn't it?
Through that, and the accident, it caused everyone to kind of shut themselves off to Drew, wether it be becuase they didn't know what to say, or they blamed him... I hated that for him, I couldn't even imagine... and he was back at school, days later? That was ridiculous. I wasn't a fan of his parents for that, even though I knew they were just trying to get things back to normal.... it was really soon and I wish they'd been more sympathetic.
Charlie... he's amazing. I didn't picture him as the guy on the cover; matter of fact, I wasn't a fan of the cover. I know you're not supposed to judge a book by it, literally in this sense, but.... I woulda skipped it, had I had to go on cover alone, which I'll admit, I sometimes do...
Anyway... enough of my shallow-ness over the cover. Charlie was amazing. He saw that Drew, one time Mr. Popular and crush from middle school, was alone on his own little island in the land of high-school. He wanted to help him.... Charlie was so genuine and selfless and patient and kind. I did at first think that it was kind of a co-dependant kind of relationship. I didn't think Charlie was taking advantage but I can admit at first, I thought he was just nice and Drew needed it.
And in a way it was true, Drew did need it, he needed Charlie in a bad way... Charlie made things better, but not because he was someone to lean on, but because Charlie was just what he needed. He made it okay for Drew to need someone to lean on and he made him start living again.
I loved how both guys had the best friends, even if they all kind of forgot that for a while, they all came together and pulled through as the awesome friends that they were, in the end.
This story is one of heartache and tradgedy, but hopefulness and growth. I adored how it ended and I'd love to read more about these two! Their lives were just getting started together and it was perfect.
Great read, 4 stars for me!
April 6, 2017
I am not a big reader of YA or High School romances, mainly because I need the happy ever after, like a junkie need a fix, and I cannot believe in a happy ever after when the characters are that young. However, this was so much more than a High School romance, this was a coming of age story filled with heartache and tragedy, but also hope and friendship, and so I will warmly recommend it.
Tanya Chris is a new author to me, but I will be looking up her other books, as this was very well written and engaging from the start. The story flowed nicely and the characters were sympathetic and likeable.
The only reason this book does not get 5 stars is the fact that I felt that the teenagers acted a tad too mature most of the time, everyone were just a little bit too nice and understanding and embracing of one another - a tad too after school special, really. And while I do understand why the author made those choices (without the sympathetic side cast, this could have turned into angst fest 2017) it just felt a tad too idealistic to ring true.
I received a free review copy of this book from the author and have reviewed it for www.openskyebookreviews.com
Tanya Chris is a new author to me, but I will be looking up her other books, as this was very well written and engaging from the start. The story flowed nicely and the characters were sympathetic and likeable.
The only reason this book does not get 5 stars is the fact that I felt that the teenagers acted a tad too mature most of the time, everyone were just a little bit too nice and understanding and embracing of one another - a tad too after school special, really. And while I do understand why the author made those choices (without the sympathetic side cast, this could have turned into angst fest 2017) it just felt a tad too idealistic to ring true.
I received a free review copy of this book from the author and have reviewed it for www.openskyebookreviews.com
August 17, 2017
Emotional Journey
What happens when the world you knew is destroyed and you are alone? Since you are a teenager in high school, you and your friends are not good at communicating. Unfortunately the parents seem to lack those same skills.
This book is aptly named: When It All Falls Down.
The story is revealed from Charlie's POV. It works, making Charlie's (Chaz) and Andy's (Drew) relationship feel raw and uncertain and real.
This was an emotional story told in surprisingly simple way. I did not want to out it down. I loved these boys. I felt their pain.
My first read by this author. Not my last.
What happens when the world you knew is destroyed and you are alone? Since you are a teenager in high school, you and your friends are not good at communicating. Unfortunately the parents seem to lack those same skills.
This book is aptly named: When It All Falls Down.
The story is revealed from Charlie's POV. It works, making Charlie's (Chaz) and Andy's (Drew) relationship feel raw and uncertain and real.
This was an emotional story told in surprisingly simple way. I did not want to out it down. I loved these boys. I felt their pain.
My first read by this author. Not my last.
March 23, 2017
This book is heart breaking and inspirational all at the same time. It's definitely worth reading.
Andrew's life is falling apart. Even though he has his own life changing stuff going on, Charles has to do all he can to help Andy. It's breaking his heart to see how Andy's friends are treating him, the once most popular guy at school. These and all the other characters in this book are great. The storyline is perfect! Every situation seems so possible, so real.
This is the first book I've read by Tanya Chris. After reading this I'm sure I'll be reading more.
Andrew's life is falling apart. Even though he has his own life changing stuff going on, Charles has to do all he can to help Andy. It's breaking his heart to see how Andy's friends are treating him, the once most popular guy at school. These and all the other characters in this book are great. The storyline is perfect! Every situation seems so possible, so real.
This is the first book I've read by Tanya Chris. After reading this I'm sure I'll be reading more.
July 26, 2018
I don't read a lot of romance, but I read a lot of YA and I've followed Chris on Twitter for some time now, so I've been meaning to check out some of her work. I'm glad I did. This is a great story with alot of emotion. I found myself staying up late and tearing through chapters as fast as I could. Loved it.
May 3, 2020
just to start off with some things i didn't like about this book (bc there weren't very many):
- that graphic-design-is-my-passion.jpg type cover. my god, it was deterring. not to mention that it doesn't fit their descriptions?? Charlie's hair is supposed to be shoulder length, and I'm pretty sure Drew's was curly.
- so many typos. I found six??
- their nicknames for each other are... Drew and Chaz. CHAZ.
okay now things I liked (everything else):
- no one is a villain. even the people you think would be villains. everyone is flawed and everyone's just trying their best bc life really sucks sometimes.
- sweetest, easiest friends to lovers trope there is. for once the drama was largely external so when it came to the romance, it was just two boys who used to have friends but didn't anymore, and leaned on each other and supported each other.
- on that note, what a unique (but realistic and simple) YA plot. the concept is what drew me to the story in the first place in spite of that cover design.
- I just really fell in love with this story. I don't know what it is about it, maybe just that the boys are so tender and affectionate and caring all the time and the fact that it depicts a consistently healthy, non-dramatic, developing gay relationship so well. It just makes me 🥺🥰🥺🥰
- that graphic-design-is-my-passion.jpg type cover. my god, it was deterring. not to mention that it doesn't fit their descriptions?? Charlie's hair is supposed to be shoulder length, and I'm pretty sure Drew's was curly.
- so many typos. I found six??
- their nicknames for each other are... Drew and Chaz. CHAZ.
okay now things I liked (everything else):
- no one is a villain. even the people you think would be villains. everyone is flawed and everyone's just trying their best bc life really sucks sometimes.
- sweetest, easiest friends to lovers trope there is. for once the drama was largely external so when it came to the romance, it was just two boys who used to have friends but didn't anymore, and leaned on each other and supported each other.
- on that note, what a unique (but realistic and simple) YA plot. the concept is what drew me to the story in the first place in spite of that cover design.
- I just really fell in love with this story. I don't know what it is about it, maybe just that the boys are so tender and affectionate and caring all the time and the fact that it depicts a consistently healthy, non-dramatic, developing gay relationship so well. It just makes me 🥺🥰🥺🥰
January 20, 2022
Don't judge a book by its cover, I was impressed by the writing.
March 27, 2017
The Nerd and the Popular Boy
This is a very sweet and romantic story. It's also full of heartache, tragedy, emotion and lifestyle change.
The main characters are amazing. Charlie is a self-proclaimed nerd who is also confident and outspoken and smart. Drew is depressed from the accident and has cut himself off from his former life and friends. He has become an island unto himself. After Charlie approaches him, and engages him in conversation, they become fast friends. Their friendship is beautiful and a great example of how opposites can be friends.
The families of the boys are also amazing. Charlie's mom and brother are very accommodating to Drew and accept him. On the other hand, Drew's parents are at a loss in what to do to bring Drew back to life. They're very grateful for Charlie and lean on him a little too much to do what they were unable to do. Charlie is a big help to that family.
The first half of the book begs the question: is Drew gay or not. I was starting to think like Charlie's mom that maybe he was just leaning heavily on Charlie because of his depression and was acting like Charlie's boyfriend, but when he got better he would be straight again. The latter half of the book proved that Drew is gay. I'm glad that got all settled.
The accident does play a significant part in this book as a backdrop of Drew's story, but does not outshine the relationship between Charlie and Drew.
The ending was great. The graduation, is Drew going to Stanford or not? Are they going to remain together somehow? I'll let you read it to find out.
If you like high school stories, first love stories and if you like coming out stories, then you will love this story. I highly recommend it.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review by Gay Book Reviews
This is a very sweet and romantic story. It's also full of heartache, tragedy, emotion and lifestyle change.
The main characters are amazing. Charlie is a self-proclaimed nerd who is also confident and outspoken and smart. Drew is depressed from the accident and has cut himself off from his former life and friends. He has become an island unto himself. After Charlie approaches him, and engages him in conversation, they become fast friends. Their friendship is beautiful and a great example of how opposites can be friends.
The families of the boys are also amazing. Charlie's mom and brother are very accommodating to Drew and accept him. On the other hand, Drew's parents are at a loss in what to do to bring Drew back to life. They're very grateful for Charlie and lean on him a little too much to do what they were unable to do. Charlie is a big help to that family.
The first half of the book begs the question: is Drew gay or not. I was starting to think like Charlie's mom that maybe he was just leaning heavily on Charlie because of his depression and was acting like Charlie's boyfriend, but when he got better he would be straight again. The latter half of the book proved that Drew is gay. I'm glad that got all settled.
The accident does play a significant part in this book as a backdrop of Drew's story, but does not outshine the relationship between Charlie and Drew.
The ending was great. The graduation, is Drew going to Stanford or not? Are they going to remain together somehow? I'll let you read it to find out.
If you like high school stories, first love stories and if you like coming out stories, then you will love this story. I highly recommend it.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review by Gay Book Reviews
April 3, 2017
When It All Falls Down by Tanya Chris
4.5 Stars – Review by Dawn Honeycutt
When Charlie came out to his family and friends on his 18th birthday, he didn’t expect the news to alienate him from his best friends, but it did. Charlie became an island. Andrew or Andy as he’s known to everyone accidentally hit and killed a little girl and since the accident, Andy has been alone.
One morning in calculus as the students are waiting for the teacher to arrive, Charlie sees Andrew Lavoitt, who is standing alone staring out of the window instead of being surrounded by students as is usually the case. Andy was voted “Most Popular” student of their class. Charlie doesn’t mind being alone, but there’s something very sad about Andy being alone so Charlie decides to approach him and talk. Charlie is like a lifeline to Andrew, someone he can hold on to to keep from drowning. They begin eating lunch together and hanging out after school.
Charlie has always thought that Andrew was cute, but he believes Andrew is straight and so he’s content to just be Andrew’s friend. The two become very close and Drew leans a lot on Charlie for support. When Drew starts giving Charlie signs that he wants to be more than just friends, Charlie is curious, but doesn’t want to take advantage of Drew.
This is a YA book, but it’s also so much more. While Charlie and Drew are seniors in high school, the issues they face both individually and together are struggles that adults go through every day. They way both men handled what life threw at them is amazing. This book deals with some really sad and really tough issues, but it’s done very well. The author delivers the sense of loneliness, grief, isolation, need, friendship and love beautifully. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.
4.5 Stars – Review by Dawn Honeycutt
When Charlie came out to his family and friends on his 18th birthday, he didn’t expect the news to alienate him from his best friends, but it did. Charlie became an island. Andrew or Andy as he’s known to everyone accidentally hit and killed a little girl and since the accident, Andy has been alone.
One morning in calculus as the students are waiting for the teacher to arrive, Charlie sees Andrew Lavoitt, who is standing alone staring out of the window instead of being surrounded by students as is usually the case. Andy was voted “Most Popular” student of their class. Charlie doesn’t mind being alone, but there’s something very sad about Andy being alone so Charlie decides to approach him and talk. Charlie is like a lifeline to Andrew, someone he can hold on to to keep from drowning. They begin eating lunch together and hanging out after school.
Charlie has always thought that Andrew was cute, but he believes Andrew is straight and so he’s content to just be Andrew’s friend. The two become very close and Drew leans a lot on Charlie for support. When Drew starts giving Charlie signs that he wants to be more than just friends, Charlie is curious, but doesn’t want to take advantage of Drew.
This is a YA book, but it’s also so much more. While Charlie and Drew are seniors in high school, the issues they face both individually and together are struggles that adults go through every day. They way both men handled what life threw at them is amazing. This book deals with some really sad and really tough issues, but it’s done very well. The author delivers the sense of loneliness, grief, isolation, need, friendship and love beautifully. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.
April 16, 2018
I'd written a review before, but the kindle app closed on me so I lost all of my well articulated thoughts. Writing it the second time never feels as good as when the book is fresh in your memory and you've pinpointed all of the tiny instances in which the book brought you joy. Thankfully, the novel has a lot of good moments for me to choose from.
I don't enjoy YA. It's never been a genre that I could have gotten into, even as a young adult. Those years aren't too far behind me (and some may still consider me a young adult), however the author truly brings me back to these high school moments with her characterization and world building. The characters are believable and a breath of fresh air as they maintain an equal balance of teen & adult.
The MC, Charlie could be quiet childish with his relationships. Quick to anger and quicker to assume the worst in any situation, and always on a defensive mode. He knows the world isn't out to get him, but still feels that anxiety of strangers constantly judging him for his sexuality. Thankfully he has several moments of growth in the novel as he continues his journey through high school.
Aside from Charlie's perspective, Drew didn't get a chance to shine much since the novel was in Charlie's POV. Drew still took his baby steps towards healing and maturity. It wasn't Charlie's love that saved him, but it was his presence that allowed him to grow and become stronger.
There was a great balance of maturity and childishness from every character, even the parents. The parents still acted like parents, of course.
Overall the novel was funny, cute, angsty, and yet heart warming. As someone who dislikes YA, I recommend this novel to those like me, who have a preconceived notion of what YA should be.
I don't enjoy YA. It's never been a genre that I could have gotten into, even as a young adult. Those years aren't too far behind me (and some may still consider me a young adult), however the author truly brings me back to these high school moments with her characterization and world building. The characters are believable and a breath of fresh air as they maintain an equal balance of teen & adult.
The MC, Charlie could be quiet childish with his relationships. Quick to anger and quicker to assume the worst in any situation, and always on a defensive mode. He knows the world isn't out to get him, but still feels that anxiety of strangers constantly judging him for his sexuality. Thankfully he has several moments of growth in the novel as he continues his journey through high school.
Aside from Charlie's perspective, Drew didn't get a chance to shine much since the novel was in Charlie's POV. Drew still took his baby steps towards healing and maturity. It wasn't Charlie's love that saved him, but it was his presence that allowed him to grow and become stronger.
There was a great balance of maturity and childishness from every character, even the parents. The parents still acted like parents, of course.
Overall the novel was funny, cute, angsty, and yet heart warming. As someone who dislikes YA, I recommend this novel to those like me, who have a preconceived notion of what YA should be.
July 2, 2017
When It All Comes Down by Tanya Chris is a male/male, young adult, contemporary romance. High school seniors Charlie and Andrew “Drew”, never ran in the same circle. But now that they’re both outcasts, they’re connecting on a level neither anticipated.
When It All Comes Down touched on a lot of themes. The author did a great job showcasing Drew’s fall from grace for accidentally killing a little girl. The whole town got involved in the ‘shaming’, as is want to happen in small towns. As a matter of fact, all the supporting characters, Drew’s and Charlie’s families, teachers and former friends were all portrayed realistically. The class difference between the two families was apparent, but not obnoxiously so. Charlie and Drew, however, I came away less sure of. Neither one of them resonated with me. While I could understand the motives behind their actions (such as Drew’s jealousy when Charlie was talking to the other gay kid at school), I didn’t find them likable. That being said, When It All Comes Down is a well-written book with strong supporting cast. I have no doubt other readers will feel differently about the heroes.
Reviewed by Liz Cat for Crystal's Many Reviewers
Copy provided for review
When It All Comes Down touched on a lot of themes. The author did a great job showcasing Drew’s fall from grace for accidentally killing a little girl. The whole town got involved in the ‘shaming’, as is want to happen in small towns. As a matter of fact, all the supporting characters, Drew’s and Charlie’s families, teachers and former friends were all portrayed realistically. The class difference between the two families was apparent, but not obnoxiously so. Charlie and Drew, however, I came away less sure of. Neither one of them resonated with me. While I could understand the motives behind their actions (such as Drew’s jealousy when Charlie was talking to the other gay kid at school), I didn’t find them likable. That being said, When It All Comes Down is a well-written book with strong supporting cast. I have no doubt other readers will feel differently about the heroes.
Reviewed by Liz Cat for Crystal's Many Reviewers
Copy provided for review
March 7, 2017
I received this ARC from the author. This was the first book that I've read by Tanya Chris and I'm so glad I did. This is one of the best YA books I've read that is realistic, hopeful, romantic, sad, and sexy all at the same time. Charlie and Drew both misinterpret messages from their peers which in doing so leads them to each other. Charlie learns to step back from situations and really listens to what others are saying...seeing things from someone else's perspective. Drew learns to forgive himself, and others, showing Charlie a stronger side that he needs to accept if their relationship is going to succeed on an even footing. Lily, Roger, Matt, Drew's parents, Noah, Florio and Justin are all characters that give the story more 'meat', humor and 'fresh eyses' to a sad and traumatic time.
My only concern was the cover of the book. Charlie was supposed to have long hair. This is just one of my pet peeves...character descriptions not matching up with cover photos. It was still a great book!
I'm looking forward to reading more from Ms. Chris.
My only concern was the cover of the book. Charlie was supposed to have long hair. This is just one of my pet peeves...character descriptions not matching up with cover photos. It was still a great book!
I'm looking forward to reading more from Ms. Chris.
April 21, 2018
Charlie befriends the former most popular guy in school when a freak accident causes his fall from grace. Andrew is a single child of wealthy parents undergoing therapy and suddenly ostracized and lonely. Both are 18-year-olds about to graduate and go off to college. Chaz has a younger brother Noah and a step-father. Drew’s parents are at a loss as to how to help their son and walk a verbal minefield even trying to talk to him. Chaz is openly gay but Drew has dated girls. Both sets of parents are open and accepting wanting only what’s best for their sons. Noah is the bratty younger brother. Andrew may have his own car, a wide-screen TV, and every electronic device known to man but I doubt either of his parents have ever hugged him.
Too many gay novels seem only a pretext to get to the make-out scenes equating sex with making love. This young couple truly care for one another’s well-being, a truer definition of love. As always I find vicarious sex scenes unnecessary and profanity crude and immature.
Too many gay novels seem only a pretext to get to the make-out scenes equating sex with making love. This young couple truly care for one another’s well-being, a truer definition of love. As always I find vicarious sex scenes unnecessary and profanity crude and immature.
March 1, 2017
Sweet book with two sweet guys.
I wish I could have given this book 5 stars. This book had a lot going on in it, but I loved Charlie throughout. Even through his "take no crap" attitude, you could feel the love and deep compassion he had for others.
The reason I couldn't give it 5 was that it took over three quarters of the book for Charlie to believe the fact that Drew was gay and not just leaning on Charlie. That ruined the romance of the story a bit for me because it always kept that shred of doubt in my mind that maybe Drew chose Charlie just because he was there for him.
Also, the ending could've had a better epilogue. It would have been nice to have my doubts allayed that Drew was in the relationship because he was IN LOVE with Charlie and not that he just loved Charlie...if I'm making any sense. A follow-up book that there relationship was a definite HEA would be nice.
I wish I could have given this book 5 stars. This book had a lot going on in it, but I loved Charlie throughout. Even through his "take no crap" attitude, you could feel the love and deep compassion he had for others.
The reason I couldn't give it 5 was that it took over three quarters of the book for Charlie to believe the fact that Drew was gay and not just leaning on Charlie. That ruined the romance of the story a bit for me because it always kept that shred of doubt in my mind that maybe Drew chose Charlie just because he was there for him.
Also, the ending could've had a better epilogue. It would have been nice to have my doubts allayed that Drew was in the relationship because he was IN LOVE with Charlie and not that he just loved Charlie...if I'm making any sense. A follow-up book that there relationship was a definite HEA would be nice.
June 29, 2017
I found this novel from a list that readers suggested. Someone was desperately searching for another coming-out/coming-of-age novel as gripping and as well written as Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. That has been my search since forever. I reviewed the recommendations and settled on Tanya Chris' book. No, it's not as good; nothing has been so far. But that is not to say that anyone reading When It All Falls Down is not going to get caught up in this well-constructed plot with main characters that engage and supporting characters that come to life. I admit to crying, and I confess to laughing. My quibble: all too often the bedroom scenes, while alluring, don't feel as though they're from the perspective of two horny 18-yr-old male libidos. You gotta love Charlie's little brother Noah though; he's got a lot of the best one-liners!
July 28, 2017
So Beautiful!!!! Childhood friends turned close friends then first loves. Such an amazing story. Drew dealing with an awful, horrific car accident resulting in the death of a a 6 yr old young girl. A small community affected by this tragedy and the grief experienced by her parents and driver Drew. Chaz reaching out to him in his time of need while all of Drew's friends seemingly pulled away leaving Drew to deal all alone. The relationship the develops between Drew and Chaz is so beautiful, innocent and intense. Friends who became lovers. Tanya Chris has written an excellent story. The all consuming grief and subsequent love between Drew and Chaz can be felt on every page. Such a well written story. Every story so far written by Tanya Chris leaves me satisfied and wanting to read more from this author.
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