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Having Her Back
Trevor Larson is a Navy brat. He’s used to moving every few years, and thanks to social media, he can stay in touch with the friends he leaves behind. But shortly after he leaves Okinawa, his best friend, Brad Gray, cuts off contact and disappears. Four years and two bases later, Brad resurfaces—and announces his family is coming to Trevor’s base in Spain. But a lot’s changed in four years, and Trevor is stunned to find out Brad is now Shannon. Their reunion isn’t quite what either of them had hoped for, but they quickly find their footing, both relieved to have each other back. Except nothing is ever all sunshine and roses. The military is a small world, and there’s no keeping Shannon’s transition a secret. Parents warn their kids away from her. She can’t attend school on-base for fear of harassment or worse. And although her parents try to hide it, being ostracized by their only social circle while they’re thousands of miles from home is taking a toll on them too. More and more, Shannon leans on Trevor. But she’s also drawn to him, and he’s drawn right back to her, feeling things he’s never felt for anyone before. Trevor’s scared, though. Not of dating a trans girl. Not of damaging his chaplain father’s career or reputation. After finally getting his friend back, does he dare take things further and risk losing Shannon a second time?
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2017
98 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
Ann Gallagher
8 books64 followersAnn Gallagher is the slightly more civilized alter ego of L.A. Witt, Lauren Gallagher, and Lori A. Witt. So she tells herself, anyway. When she isn't wreaking havoc on Spain with her husband and trusty two-headed Brahma bull, she writes romances just like her wilder counterparts, but without all the heat.
(Source: Amazon.com.)
(Source: Amazon.com.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
April 3, 2020
*deep breath*
Okay, I want to start off by saying that I'm a big L.A. Witt/Ann Gallagher fan, and I LOVE that she writes diverse, interesting stories. I constantly say that I'm always happy that she takes risks, and I absolutely love that she wrote a book with a trans MC. That being said, this book just didn't work for me.
Now, checking out other reviews, I seem to be in the vast minority, so take my opinion with a grain of salt. This book could be revolutionary and genius but I'm just missing it. However, I'll explain everything I was thinking while reading to try to get you guys in my headspace.
I'll start with some general basic issues and then I'll get deeper.
I don't think I quite grasped from the blurb how truly YA this book is. It is so, so YA. The MCs are 16 and they act very... young. I read some YA, but I like my YA to be more... complex? More substance, more snarky introspection rather than "I have a problem, I'll ask dad." Right off the bat, the tone didn't work for me.
The book is also very churchy. I know the blurb talks about a pastor father, but a lot of the scenes and discussions have to do in a church setting or from a Christian point of view. I wasn't anticipating that. I don't love religious books, and when I read them it is more outsider fascination rather than agreement.
Moving on to the bigger issues: The plot/story itself.
I read a lot of books with trans or genderfluid MCs (over 30), and I find it pretty remarkable that there are so few good ones. I've found that people are often too afraid to make the trans MC feel realistic, and instead the trans MC becomes this perfect character that can do no wrong and doesn't have enough depth. I've also seen authors make books with trans MCs full of self-congratulating side characters who get lots of pats on the back when they treat the trans MC with respect (that happens a LOT).
This book sort of did both. The female MC is just a one-dimensional character without enough oomph to her. She felt like a placeholder. Like, "Oh, I need a trans female MC so you'll do!" I didn't get a great sense of her at all, and I didn't know why she barely stood up for herself without her gaggle of friends to do it for her. I mean, I love a good group of friends but I wanted SHANNON to become something more than a blah character.
Also, aside from the male MC's nasty reaction to seeing Shannon, I felt like the author was trying way too hard to make him seem uber-accepting and the perfect friend-turned-boyfriend. He is sixteen, but we don't see a lot of fun personality (unless you count playing video games as fun) or wit or dimension. We just see close-to-parents Trevor who stands up for trans people! I just wanted to know him as a person, get to see more... something of substance!
In addition, I just felt like the romance was forced. It felt unnatural and thrown together, which is my least favorite feeling in romance.
Overall, the book was really well-meaning, but it felt all wrong to me. It could have been the style (YA), the characters (self-absorbed teenagers), or the plot (not really there).
I'm giving two stars because while I'm complaining a lot, I also feel kind of bad for being so harsh when the book was sweet and happy-family overall. However, I want a book with a trans MC who is nerdy or snarky or sexy or scary or likes to fight or collects 100 snakes or SOMETHING. Is it so much to ask for for a trans book with something more?
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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Okay, I want to start off by saying that I'm a big L.A. Witt/Ann Gallagher fan, and I LOVE that she writes diverse, interesting stories. I constantly say that I'm always happy that she takes risks, and I absolutely love that she wrote a book with a trans MC. That being said, this book just didn't work for me.
Now, checking out other reviews, I seem to be in the vast minority, so take my opinion with a grain of salt. This book could be revolutionary and genius but I'm just missing it. However, I'll explain everything I was thinking while reading to try to get you guys in my headspace.
I'll start with some general basic issues and then I'll get deeper.
I don't think I quite grasped from the blurb how truly YA this book is. It is so, so YA. The MCs are 16 and they act very... young. I read some YA, but I like my YA to be more... complex? More substance, more snarky introspection rather than "I have a problem, I'll ask dad." Right off the bat, the tone didn't work for me.
The book is also very churchy. I know the blurb talks about a pastor father, but a lot of the scenes and discussions have to do in a church setting or from a Christian point of view. I wasn't anticipating that. I don't love religious books, and when I read them it is more outsider fascination rather than agreement.
Moving on to the bigger issues: The plot/story itself.
I read a lot of books with trans or genderfluid MCs (over 30), and I find it pretty remarkable that there are so few good ones. I've found that people are often too afraid to make the trans MC feel realistic, and instead the trans MC becomes this perfect character that can do no wrong and doesn't have enough depth. I've also seen authors make books with trans MCs full of self-congratulating side characters who get lots of pats on the back when they treat the trans MC with respect (that happens a LOT).
This book sort of did both. The female MC is just a one-dimensional character without enough oomph to her. She felt like a placeholder. Like, "Oh, I need a trans female MC so you'll do!" I didn't get a great sense of her at all, and I didn't know why she barely stood up for herself without her gaggle of friends to do it for her. I mean, I love a good group of friends but I wanted SHANNON to become something more than a blah character.
Also, aside from the male MC's nasty reaction to seeing Shannon, I felt like the author was trying way too hard to make him seem uber-accepting and the perfect friend-turned-boyfriend. He is sixteen, but we don't see a lot of fun personality (unless you count playing video games as fun) or wit or dimension. We just see close-to-parents Trevor who stands up for trans people! I just wanted to know him as a person, get to see more... something of substance!
In addition, I just felt like the romance was forced. It felt unnatural and thrown together, which is my least favorite feeling in romance.
Overall, the book was really well-meaning, but it felt all wrong to me. It could have been the style (YA), the characters (self-absorbed teenagers), or the plot (not really there).
I'm giving two stars because while I'm complaining a lot, I also feel kind of bad for being so harsh when the book was sweet and happy-family overall. However, I want a book with a trans MC who is nerdy or snarky or sexy or scary or likes to fight or collects 100 snakes or SOMETHING. Is it so much to ask for for a trans book with something more?
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
February 8, 2019
Having Her Back by Ann Gallagher is a sweet first love YA about a boy whose best friend cuts him off unexpectedly for years, and when they meet again that friend is now a girl. They fall in love. It's adorable and complex and gentle but also quintessentially YA in that it is the adults who often make mistakes, and the kids must learn to see their parents as fallible. No major triggers and yet it deals deftly with some very complex issues.
August 13, 2017
2/10 stars
"I could go on forever—literally every one of my notes has ‘please stop this BS’ written next to it—but it would be rehashing the same main point. Which is: book celebrates cis people for not being transphobic. Yay?" - Matt
"I also wanted to hug Shannon. A lot. With permission. Because the way she was treated broke my heart. [...] At the same time I wanted someone to tell her to show the people in her life where they could stick it, and how high." - Maria
Find our full reviews on our blog here.
"I could go on forever—literally every one of my notes has ‘please stop this BS’ written next to it—but it would be rehashing the same main point. Which is: book celebrates cis people for not being transphobic. Yay?" - Matt
"I also wanted to hug Shannon. A lot. With permission. Because the way she was treated broke my heart. [...] At the same time I wanted someone to tell her to show the people in her life where they could stick it, and how high." - Maria
Find our full reviews on our blog here.
August 23, 2017
After not hearing from his best friend for four years, Trevor is excited to find out that Brad and his family will soon be living at the same base where Trevor’s father is stationed. But the reason for Brad’s complete and total silence the last four years, since moving away from Okinawa, becomes shockingly apparent when Brad walks into the restaurant they had agreed to meet up in. Mostly because it is not Brad who walks in, but Shannon. Unprepared and caught off-guard, Trevor reacts in a less than stellar manner.
Shannon was prepared–or she liked to think she was–for the reunion to not go well. Didn’t make Trevor storming out on her any less painful. So when he asks to meet again–after days of her pointed stonewalling–she is all set to call their friendship a wash. Losing people because they can’t handle her being trans is hardly a new thing, after all. But after she runs into Trevor’s dad, who is a chaplain on base–and they have a very awkward, if polite, conversation–she decides to at least hear Trevor out. But even if things work out between them, Shannon knows that life is hardly going to cakewalk. Life post-transition might be easier in some ways, but there will always be people who knew her as Brad, and in a place like the military that might be all that matters.
So, yeah, these two were just a barrel full of cute. Like puppies. Like puppies with crushes on other puppies…and who haven’t quite mastered the art of puppy-flirting. They were freaking adorable, is all I’m saying.
I’m not a huge reader of YA stories. Mostly because all the emo-cliches that tend to permeate the less well written of the genre get on my nerves like no ones business. But I try to review as many trans-centric stories as I can for the blog, and I am a HUGE fan of this author and her military-themed stories. So…I gave it a chance. And to no ones shock, Ann Gallagher gives good story. My biggest pet peeve with YA is that for some reason most of the time the teens in these stories don’t act like any human being I have ever met. They are usually one-toned, and carbon-copies of each other. Here, they actually feel like humans. With multiple layers–not all of them great, but at least real–and no one is ever just a cliche to be used as a placeholder in the story.
Trevor, while later fully supportive of Shannon, does not have the greatest first reaction. It may not be for the reasons that Shannon thinks, but Trevor is not automatically spouting acceptance and Kumbiyahs. I like that he messes up. And I like that later on he has doubts about things, but is always willing to figure out what is the right road to take. Shannon is also a nice mix of insecurity and strength. Honestly I have no idea how I would have handled knowing I was trans at such a young age (let alone coming out), but if it is anything like doing it a decade later, it is not always pretty. I liked that this story didn’t ignore the bad parts of being trans in this society, but also didn’t make her nothing but those bad parts. The support she has from her friends and family really helped it not feel hopeless.
This book wasn’t nearly the angst-fest I thought it was going to be, actually. Yeah there are some real jerks in this book, but it never becomes about that. At least not just that. It was much more focused on Trevor and Shannon as a couple of teens falling for each other. And their situation might be a little more tricky than your average teenagers, but a lot of it was familiar. Plus, omg, they were just so adorable when they trying to figure out how to flirt and do all the teenage-dating stuff. When they held hands for the first time I think I just about died of the cutes. They made reading this story so easy.
I also appreciated the take on Christianity in this book. It doesn’t skew one way or the other on the spectrum, but it does a pretty decent job of showing both the light and dark side of religion. And Trevor’s dad was a pretty dang awesome character. I’m usually a bit leery when reading about religion (especially one I know personally) because it tends to fall into cliche if the author is not careful, but here it came across as very real. I know people who are both as kind as Trevor’s dad, and hateful as some of the congregants. The book doesn’t leave you in doubt as to what side is in the right, but it also doesn’t deny that the other side exists as well.
This book ended up being a really great read. The story and characters were all handled really well, and I found reading about trans girl to be a nice break from my normal trend of focusing on the more trans-male characters. I also wouldn’t mind in the least if we were to get a sequel about Trevor and Shannon. I’d love to see how their relationship progresses past these first few steps. All in all, I highly recommend this. Not only for fans of YA, but for everyone who is looking for a good story about falling in love for the first time.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Shannon was prepared–or she liked to think she was–for the reunion to not go well. Didn’t make Trevor storming out on her any less painful. So when he asks to meet again–after days of her pointed stonewalling–she is all set to call their friendship a wash. Losing people because they can’t handle her being trans is hardly a new thing, after all. But after she runs into Trevor’s dad, who is a chaplain on base–and they have a very awkward, if polite, conversation–she decides to at least hear Trevor out. But even if things work out between them, Shannon knows that life is hardly going to cakewalk. Life post-transition might be easier in some ways, but there will always be people who knew her as Brad, and in a place like the military that might be all that matters.
So, yeah, these two were just a barrel full of cute. Like puppies. Like puppies with crushes on other puppies…and who haven’t quite mastered the art of puppy-flirting. They were freaking adorable, is all I’m saying.
I’m not a huge reader of YA stories. Mostly because all the emo-cliches that tend to permeate the less well written of the genre get on my nerves like no ones business. But I try to review as many trans-centric stories as I can for the blog, and I am a HUGE fan of this author and her military-themed stories. So…I gave it a chance. And to no ones shock, Ann Gallagher gives good story. My biggest pet peeve with YA is that for some reason most of the time the teens in these stories don’t act like any human being I have ever met. They are usually one-toned, and carbon-copies of each other. Here, they actually feel like humans. With multiple layers–not all of them great, but at least real–and no one is ever just a cliche to be used as a placeholder in the story.
Trevor, while later fully supportive of Shannon, does not have the greatest first reaction. It may not be for the reasons that Shannon thinks, but Trevor is not automatically spouting acceptance and Kumbiyahs. I like that he messes up. And I like that later on he has doubts about things, but is always willing to figure out what is the right road to take. Shannon is also a nice mix of insecurity and strength. Honestly I have no idea how I would have handled knowing I was trans at such a young age (let alone coming out), but if it is anything like doing it a decade later, it is not always pretty. I liked that this story didn’t ignore the bad parts of being trans in this society, but also didn’t make her nothing but those bad parts. The support she has from her friends and family really helped it not feel hopeless.
This book wasn’t nearly the angst-fest I thought it was going to be, actually. Yeah there are some real jerks in this book, but it never becomes about that. At least not just that. It was much more focused on Trevor and Shannon as a couple of teens falling for each other. And their situation might be a little more tricky than your average teenagers, but a lot of it was familiar. Plus, omg, they were just so adorable when they trying to figure out how to flirt and do all the teenage-dating stuff. When they held hands for the first time I think I just about died of the cutes. They made reading this story so easy.
I also appreciated the take on Christianity in this book. It doesn’t skew one way or the other on the spectrum, but it does a pretty decent job of showing both the light and dark side of religion. And Trevor’s dad was a pretty dang awesome character. I’m usually a bit leery when reading about religion (especially one I know personally) because it tends to fall into cliche if the author is not careful, but here it came across as very real. I know people who are both as kind as Trevor’s dad, and hateful as some of the congregants. The book doesn’t leave you in doubt as to what side is in the right, but it also doesn’t deny that the other side exists as well.
This book ended up being a really great read. The story and characters were all handled really well, and I found reading about trans girl to be a nice break from my normal trend of focusing on the more trans-male characters. I also wouldn’t mind in the least if we were to get a sequel about Trevor and Shannon. I’d love to see how their relationship progresses past these first few steps. All in all, I highly recommend this. Not only for fans of YA, but for everyone who is looking for a good story about falling in love for the first time.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
September 6, 2017
I usually tend to stay away from young adult stories these days because it’s too easy for the maturity level of the characters to annoy me. Thankfully, that wasn’t really an issue with this story. The majority of the time, Trevor, Shannon and their friends were down to earth, tolerant, intelligent teens which was a nice change of pace. Whether their attitudes towards Shannon being trans are true to life nowadays, I couldn’t say, but even just seeing it in this story makes me hope that this would be more the case now.
Both Trevor and Shannon are guilty of communication issues—Shannon for going silent while she was still Brad and leaving Trevor hanging; Trevor for not expressing his feelings correctly on more than one occasion—leaving Shannon to guess (incorrectly) at what he means. All of which is very much teen behavior, and the source of my only real annoyance with the story. Well, I knew I wasn’t getting out of a young adult story without something to trip my pet peeves.
The topic of Shannon’s transition is handled well I think from multiple aspects, but my favorite thing about this story is how Trevor’s father reacts, supports, and champions not just Shannon but anyone who falls along the queer spectrum. The world needs more people like him, in books and in real life.
I was surprised that for a young adult story this wasn’t as angst-filled as I’d have expected. It was more heavily concentrated on Trevor and Shannon’s relationship, and how it progresses as they become closer. And while yes, there are a few teens who don’t react well, it’s actually the adults who create more of an issue where there really isn’t one and cause the bit of drama that is present.
Having Her Back gets 4 solid stars from me, and though it is a young adult story please realize there is plenty of adult language as well. Even so, I think teens 16+ would benefit from reading this (just be aware of the language beforehand).
Both Trevor and Shannon are guilty of communication issues—Shannon for going silent while she was still Brad and leaving Trevor hanging; Trevor for not expressing his feelings correctly on more than one occasion—leaving Shannon to guess (incorrectly) at what he means. All of which is very much teen behavior, and the source of my only real annoyance with the story. Well, I knew I wasn’t getting out of a young adult story without something to trip my pet peeves.
The topic of Shannon’s transition is handled well I think from multiple aspects, but my favorite thing about this story is how Trevor’s father reacts, supports, and champions not just Shannon but anyone who falls along the queer spectrum. The world needs more people like him, in books and in real life.
I was surprised that for a young adult story this wasn’t as angst-filled as I’d have expected. It was more heavily concentrated on Trevor and Shannon’s relationship, and how it progresses as they become closer. And while yes, there are a few teens who don’t react well, it’s actually the adults who create more of an issue where there really isn’t one and cause the bit of drama that is present.
Having Her Back gets 4 solid stars from me, and though it is a young adult story please realize there is plenty of adult language as well. Even so, I think teens 16+ would benefit from reading this (just be aware of the language beforehand).
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February 9, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/9/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
Trevor Larson is a Navy brat. He’s used to moving every few years, and thanks to social media, he can stay in touch with the friends he leaves behind. But shortly after he leaves Okinawa, his best friend, Brad Gray, cuts off contact and disappears.
Four years and two bases later, Brad resurfaces—and announces his family is coming to Trevor’s base in Spain. But a lot’s changed in four years, and Trevor is stunned to find out Brad is now Shannon. Their reunion isn’t quite what either of them had hoped for, but they quickly find their footing, both relieved to have each other back.
Except nothing is ever all sunshine and roses. The military is a small world, and there’s no keeping Shannon’s transition a secret. Parents warn their kids away from her. She can’t attend school on-base for fear of harassment or worse. And although her parents try to hide it, being ostracized by their only social circle while they’re thousands of miles from home is taking a toll on them too.
More and more, Shannon leans on Trevor. But she’s also drawn to him, and he’s drawn right back to her, feeling things he’s never felt for anyone before.
Trevor’s scared, though. Not of dating a trans girl. Not of damaging his chaplain father’s career or reputation. After finally getting his friend back, does he dare take things further and risk losing Shannon a second time?
Blurb:
Trevor Larson is a Navy brat. He’s used to moving every few years, and thanks to social media, he can stay in touch with the friends he leaves behind. But shortly after he leaves Okinawa, his best friend, Brad Gray, cuts off contact and disappears.
Four years and two bases later, Brad resurfaces—and announces his family is coming to Trevor’s base in Spain. But a lot’s changed in four years, and Trevor is stunned to find out Brad is now Shannon. Their reunion isn’t quite what either of them had hoped for, but they quickly find their footing, both relieved to have each other back.
Except nothing is ever all sunshine and roses. The military is a small world, and there’s no keeping Shannon’s transition a secret. Parents warn their kids away from her. She can’t attend school on-base for fear of harassment or worse. And although her parents try to hide it, being ostracized by their only social circle while they’re thousands of miles from home is taking a toll on them too.
More and more, Shannon leans on Trevor. But she’s also drawn to him, and he’s drawn right back to her, feeling things he’s never felt for anyone before.
Trevor’s scared, though. Not of dating a trans girl. Not of damaging his chaplain father’s career or reputation. After finally getting his friend back, does he dare take things further and risk losing Shannon a second time?
October 10, 2018
This book is really sweet. I'm not trans, so I can't say for sure that it's accurate to the trans experience, but it seems to be. It is definitely accurate to the Navy brat and overseas base experiences, and holds the distinction of being the first book I've come across that I can say that about.
Deducting a star because I didn't find the plot or characters terribly gripping. I'd put the book down and forget I was reading it for days. But I did enjoy it while I had it opened.
Deducting a star because I didn't find the plot or characters terribly gripping. I'd put the book down and forget I was reading it for days. But I did enjoy it while I had it opened.
dnf
July 17, 2017Ugh self-absorbed teenagers who think people can read their minds
June 21, 2017
This had a YA feel to it. I honestly don't even know if it's labeled as one, but that's how it came off to me. I hate YA for the most part, so the fact that I thought it was this good is amazing.
August 28, 2017
3.5 stars
Very much a YA reunion story (protags are 17) set on a US Army base in Rota, Spain.
Trevor is excited to discover that his former best friend is going to be on the same base after 4 years apart and 4 years of no contact. Only he reacts badly when they meet up and he discovers that his best friend has transitioned and is now female. While they move past that to rekindle first their friendship and then a very early romance things don't always run smoothly.
While I liked this story I did have some niggles. It's told in alternative chapter pov and I wanted to smack Trevor at times for his self congratulatory way he was dealing with Shannon's transition after his early blunder, and gift Shannon with a little more backbone. Supportive families and friends were great - with the transphobic being almost exclusively adult women - that didn't wash for me... children are cruel, and while the younger generation might have a better understanding of lgbt issues herd mentality will result in picking on whoever is deemed the weakest. Overall the story was enjoyable though a little preachy in places
Very much a YA reunion story (protags are 17) set on a US Army base in Rota, Spain.
Trevor is excited to discover that his former best friend is going to be on the same base after 4 years apart and 4 years of no contact. Only he reacts badly when they meet up and he discovers that his best friend has transitioned and is now female. While they move past that to rekindle first their friendship and then a very early romance things don't always run smoothly.
While I liked this story I did have some niggles. It's told in alternative chapter pov and I wanted to smack Trevor at times for his self congratulatory way he was dealing with Shannon's transition after his early blunder, and gift Shannon with a little more backbone. Supportive families and friends were great - with the transphobic being almost exclusively adult women - that didn't wash for me... children are cruel, and while the younger generation might have a better understanding of lgbt issues herd mentality will result in picking on whoever is deemed the weakest. Overall the story was enjoyable though a little preachy in places
July 22, 2019
Cute little YA book with a trans protagonist. And when I say YA, I mean very YA. It touches on tough issues trans individuals have to deal with, but this is very much a Happily Ever After type of book. Nothing wrong with that, but definitely don’t go in expecting a deep dramatic story. It’s pure feel good fluff.
August 13, 2017
Beautifully heartwarming ♡
Trevor and Shannon are so cute together
I totally get Trevor‘s first reaction and didn‘t feel like he needed to apologise again and again.
Shannon is a strong and brave teenager and her story is a great message that everybody is worthy just the way they are.
Trevor and Shannon are so cute together
I totally get Trevor‘s first reaction and didn‘t feel like he needed to apologise again and again.
Shannon is a strong and brave teenager and her story is a great message that everybody is worthy just the way they are.
August 14, 2017
I loved this a lot. Review coming soon
September 1, 2017
Trevor is a 16 y/o Navy brat on a base in Rota, Spain. He’s grown up moving every few years when his dad, Pastor Larson, a Protestant chaplain, gets reassigned. Sometimes he meets up with friends he’d made in DOD schools at other bases, and that’s the case in Rota. He’s lived there a few years now, and a few of his better pals from the Okinawa base are now in Rota, but not his very best friend Brad. Brad shipped out form Okinawa and dropped off the face of the earth, it seemed, because he wouldn’t respond to any of Trevor’s emails, IMs or texts. It’s been four years, and Trevor’s stunned to get an email from Brad saying he’s coming to Rota in a month, and he’s changed. A lot. Trevor wonders if that’s because Brad’s gay and bad things happened when he moved form Okinawa. Trevor’s determined to be good friend to Brad, no matter what.
Shannon is a transgender girl, who used to be Brad. It’s been a hard four years but she’s transitioned well, and feels good in her body for the first time, perhaps, ever. She’s had a lot of backlash in her personal life, though her parents completely support her, even if they all suspect her transition may have caused her dad not to make his promotion that past two years. Still, she’s being homeschooled, and trying to keep a low profile; unlikely in the small circle of families that make up overseas bases.
Trevor is stunned when he meets Shannon, and pretty angry she didn’t trust him enough to divulge her big secret before they met in person–or at any time in the past four years. His reaction isn’t excellent, but Shannon interprets his swift departure as a rejection of her new self, and that’s a stumbling block. Trevor does make it up to Shannon, and Shannon fits into their group of Okinawa friends without too much issue. There are some quakes in the personnel, however, and Shannon’s the center of some anti-trans sentiment that’s sweeping the base, including members of Pastor Larson’s congregation. It’s upsetting for all, but Trevor’s more confused about his changing feelings for Shannon. They shared a deep friendship as kids, and now when he thinks back, he doesn’t see “Brad” in those memories, he sees Shannon, and he’s not sure what to do with his growing attraction to her. What if they break up and become enemies, as some of his buddies have with their exes?
This book is told from Trevor’s and Shannon’s point-of-views and that’s really interesting. I liked how culturally-competent the characters’ inner thoughts, actions and dialogue are. These are kids who are have fought hard to maintain friendships, and they aren’t willing to toss Shannon aside because of her transition. In fact, all of Trev’s pals accept her wholeheartedly into their group, and their girlfriends invite Shannon on shopping trips and makeovers. The kids also stand up for Shannon when she’s accosted in public or put-down in conversations they overhear. Trevor’s mistakes with Shannon come from his own insecurity, and aren’t related to her transition.
The intimacy that develops between Trevor and Shannon is cautious and tender. Trevor just got his best friend back…he doesn’t want to mess things up by being a bad boyfriend. He’s never even dated a girl before; realistically he’s sure he’ll mess up and they’ll stop speaking again. Shannon’s never dated and she is insecure about her body, and how a partner would view her body. It leads to some discord between them, that has a good resolution in the end.
This is a YA read, so expect YA-levels of steam, and nothing more. That said, there are some unique experiences here due to Shannon’s physiology and that provokes some valid and frank discussion. I liked how sensitively that was handled, and the introspection both Trevor and Shannon demonstrate is valuable for people who have concerns about trans-persons and their relationships. Shannon didn’t expect to find a partner who could love her as she is, and has a reasonable fear of fetishization, though she doesn’t think Trevor sees her as a fetish. She’s also nervous that he’ll be unhappy with her physical state, and that’s an anxiety-triggering situation. Trevor’s more afraid of being a bad partner, given his lack of experience. It was really endearing and felt realistic. The military aspect of this story likewise felt well-informed, and I could absolutely see all the sights in Rota and nearby, just as Shannon did. Yet another locale to put on my travel bucket-list. Readers who enjoy teen romance, or trangender stories, will really enjoy this one. I know I did.
Shannon is a transgender girl, who used to be Brad. It’s been a hard four years but she’s transitioned well, and feels good in her body for the first time, perhaps, ever. She’s had a lot of backlash in her personal life, though her parents completely support her, even if they all suspect her transition may have caused her dad not to make his promotion that past two years. Still, she’s being homeschooled, and trying to keep a low profile; unlikely in the small circle of families that make up overseas bases.
Trevor is stunned when he meets Shannon, and pretty angry she didn’t trust him enough to divulge her big secret before they met in person–or at any time in the past four years. His reaction isn’t excellent, but Shannon interprets his swift departure as a rejection of her new self, and that’s a stumbling block. Trevor does make it up to Shannon, and Shannon fits into their group of Okinawa friends without too much issue. There are some quakes in the personnel, however, and Shannon’s the center of some anti-trans sentiment that’s sweeping the base, including members of Pastor Larson’s congregation. It’s upsetting for all, but Trevor’s more confused about his changing feelings for Shannon. They shared a deep friendship as kids, and now when he thinks back, he doesn’t see “Brad” in those memories, he sees Shannon, and he’s not sure what to do with his growing attraction to her. What if they break up and become enemies, as some of his buddies have with their exes?
This book is told from Trevor’s and Shannon’s point-of-views and that’s really interesting. I liked how culturally-competent the characters’ inner thoughts, actions and dialogue are. These are kids who are have fought hard to maintain friendships, and they aren’t willing to toss Shannon aside because of her transition. In fact, all of Trev’s pals accept her wholeheartedly into their group, and their girlfriends invite Shannon on shopping trips and makeovers. The kids also stand up for Shannon when she’s accosted in public or put-down in conversations they overhear. Trevor’s mistakes with Shannon come from his own insecurity, and aren’t related to her transition.
The intimacy that develops between Trevor and Shannon is cautious and tender. Trevor just got his best friend back…he doesn’t want to mess things up by being a bad boyfriend. He’s never even dated a girl before; realistically he’s sure he’ll mess up and they’ll stop speaking again. Shannon’s never dated and she is insecure about her body, and how a partner would view her body. It leads to some discord between them, that has a good resolution in the end.
This is a YA read, so expect YA-levels of steam, and nothing more. That said, there are some unique experiences here due to Shannon’s physiology and that provokes some valid and frank discussion. I liked how sensitively that was handled, and the introspection both Trevor and Shannon demonstrate is valuable for people who have concerns about trans-persons and their relationships. Shannon didn’t expect to find a partner who could love her as she is, and has a reasonable fear of fetishization, though she doesn’t think Trevor sees her as a fetish. She’s also nervous that he’ll be unhappy with her physical state, and that’s an anxiety-triggering situation. Trevor’s more afraid of being a bad partner, given his lack of experience. It was really endearing and felt realistic. The military aspect of this story likewise felt well-informed, and I could absolutely see all the sights in Rota and nearby, just as Shannon did. Yet another locale to put on my travel bucket-list. Readers who enjoy teen romance, or trangender stories, will really enjoy this one. I know I did.
did-not-finish-or-not-for-me
May 15, 2018Not sure how this freebie ended up on my Kindle but definitely not for me. Obviously I never read the summary because this isn't one I would have opened if I had. Cover + genre + reading a few reviews is how I choose books. Unfortunately that means sometimes I download and then have to delete books 😕
explicit language
explicit language
September 1, 2017
juste GENIALE ! J'ai adoré cette romance YA qui m'a fait beaucoup penser à Meredith Russo, et en mieux parce qu'il n'y a pas de fin ouverte ;) Bref je me suis régalée !
August 19, 2021
This book is adorable. I love Shannon very much, she is so sweet and so strong. And Trevor and Shannon are really cute together.
August 18, 2017
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
There are so many things I want to say about this book after reading it that I don't know if there is any hope for an organized review. Please bear with me. :) First let me show some love for the title. Having Her Back is perfect for this story both literally and figuratively.
One of the reasons I picked this book to read for our RGR Transgender Awareness event was because I really like this author's writing. In her many names, she has written about bisexual, gay, lesbian, asexual and transgender characters. They have been vampires, wolf shifters, shifters that change from male to female, rock stars, actors, police officers, military, doms and subs, and they have been polyamorous at times. I don't know a book she can't write the hell out of. Her books that take place on military bases often ring very authentic to me and I could believe that she has lived on a base and visited all the scenes she describes so perfectly. Since this book takes place between two teens whose parents are in the Navy, we get a good view of what being gay or trans is like among the other families stationed there, and we get to see a little bit of Spain through the author's words.
Another reason I picked this book is because of the pairing. I am a huge m/m romance reader. In that time I have read a few books with trans men as main characters falling in love with other men. Essentially it is still an m/m romance novel. I was eager to read something a little different and I got it with this story of best friends to lovers with a twist. Trevor is a straight teen who has lost contact with his best friend Brad, only to learn during the radio silence that Brad transitioned into Shannon. There is trouble at their first meeting when Trevor has difficulty accepting the changes to their friendship, but most especially he feels betrayed that Shannon didn't trust him to stand by her during that time. Happily both of them are willing to give each other another chance for perceived and very real hurts, and they strike up their friendship again. Though Trevor sees Shannon as possibly more than a friend?
I really love that as the story goes along, Trevor doesn't compare his relationships with Brad and Shannon. In fact, in his memories, Shannon starts to replace Brad. There is only his good friend and the past and present versions are one in the same. Still he has to wonder about what it means for his own sexuality that he likes someone who used to be male and he also fears losing his friend by entering into something more. I love when life makes you question everything you thought you knew before and leaves your mind open to new things. There is so much I love about their pairing. Their relationship will never be smooth sailing though, especially with their parents careers and the military still not being the most open place for anyone who identifies as other than straight and cisgender.
I love that a handful of friends do accept Shannon's change and that her family put her above their own jobs in allowing her to transition. A parents love should always be unconditional and Shannon's parents show that. So does Trevor's parents. Seeing as his dad is a chaplain you don't necessarily expect instant acceptance of Trevor's friend's change but there is. Trevor's dad really steps up later in the book to stand up to church gossipers and puts things in perspective. That everyone can't see the things the way he does is sad because his thoughts on God and love mirror my own. I feel despair at times that some people still feel they get to be the judge instead of just showing kindness and compassion and love to those around us. I teared up a little bit at this part because I identify with it so much but not all the people in my life do.
Okay, moving on from my dip into moroseness. I was moved reading this book and I really enjoyed the story. There are moments of hurt feelings as Trevor and Shannon fumble about in each of their first relationships. But that is to be expected with any first love. I love most of the side characters. It is a YA book and the sexual content is appropriate with just a few makeout sessions that start to round second base but no more than that. The future for the characters is sort of open-ended because there is much of life to be lived for them and who knows what will happen. Both of them show a lot of maturity and care for each other so I think they have a good fighting chance at an HEA. In my opinion, the book is definitely worth reading and I definitely recommend it.
10/10 Pots of Gold (100% Recommended) – Compares to 5/5 Stars
There are so many things I want to say about this book after reading it that I don't know if there is any hope for an organized review. Please bear with me. :) First let me show some love for the title. Having Her Back is perfect for this story both literally and figuratively.
One of the reasons I picked this book to read for our RGR Transgender Awareness event was because I really like this author's writing. In her many names, she has written about bisexual, gay, lesbian, asexual and transgender characters. They have been vampires, wolf shifters, shifters that change from male to female, rock stars, actors, police officers, military, doms and subs, and they have been polyamorous at times. I don't know a book she can't write the hell out of. Her books that take place on military bases often ring very authentic to me and I could believe that she has lived on a base and visited all the scenes she describes so perfectly. Since this book takes place between two teens whose parents are in the Navy, we get a good view of what being gay or trans is like among the other families stationed there, and we get to see a little bit of Spain through the author's words.
Another reason I picked this book is because of the pairing. I am a huge m/m romance reader. In that time I have read a few books with trans men as main characters falling in love with other men. Essentially it is still an m/m romance novel. I was eager to read something a little different and I got it with this story of best friends to lovers with a twist. Trevor is a straight teen who has lost contact with his best friend Brad, only to learn during the radio silence that Brad transitioned into Shannon. There is trouble at their first meeting when Trevor has difficulty accepting the changes to their friendship, but most especially he feels betrayed that Shannon didn't trust him to stand by her during that time. Happily both of them are willing to give each other another chance for perceived and very real hurts, and they strike up their friendship again. Though Trevor sees Shannon as possibly more than a friend?
I really love that as the story goes along, Trevor doesn't compare his relationships with Brad and Shannon. In fact, in his memories, Shannon starts to replace Brad. There is only his good friend and the past and present versions are one in the same. Still he has to wonder about what it means for his own sexuality that he likes someone who used to be male and he also fears losing his friend by entering into something more. I love when life makes you question everything you thought you knew before and leaves your mind open to new things. There is so much I love about their pairing. Their relationship will never be smooth sailing though, especially with their parents careers and the military still not being the most open place for anyone who identifies as other than straight and cisgender.
I love that a handful of friends do accept Shannon's change and that her family put her above their own jobs in allowing her to transition. A parents love should always be unconditional and Shannon's parents show that. So does Trevor's parents. Seeing as his dad is a chaplain you don't necessarily expect instant acceptance of Trevor's friend's change but there is. Trevor's dad really steps up later in the book to stand up to church gossipers and puts things in perspective. That everyone can't see the things the way he does is sad because his thoughts on God and love mirror my own. I feel despair at times that some people still feel they get to be the judge instead of just showing kindness and compassion and love to those around us. I teared up a little bit at this part because I identify with it so much but not all the people in my life do.
Okay, moving on from my dip into moroseness. I was moved reading this book and I really enjoyed the story. There are moments of hurt feelings as Trevor and Shannon fumble about in each of their first relationships. But that is to be expected with any first love. I love most of the side characters. It is a YA book and the sexual content is appropriate with just a few makeout sessions that start to round second base but no more than that. The future for the characters is sort of open-ended because there is much of life to be lived for them and who knows what will happen. Both of them show a lot of maturity and care for each other so I think they have a good fighting chance at an HEA. In my opinion, the book is definitely worth reading and I definitely recommend it.
10/10 Pots of Gold (100% Recommended) – Compares to 5/5 Stars
December 20, 2017
Title: Having Her Back
Author: Ann Gallagher
Publisher: Ann Gallagher
ISBN: B07172NXLP
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Having-Her-Bac...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Trevor Larson is a Navy brat. He’s used to moving every few years, and thanks to social media, he can stay in touch with the friends he leaves behind. But shortly after he leaves Okinawa, his best friend, Brad Gray, cuts off contact and disappears.
Four years and two bases later, Brad resurfaces—and announces his family is coming to Trevor’s base in Spain. But a lot’s changed in four years, and Trevor is stunned to find out Brad is now Shannon. Their reunion isn’t quite what either of them had hoped for, but they quickly find their footing, both relieved to have each other back.
Except nothing is ever all sunshine and roses. The military is a small world, and there’s no keeping Shannon’s transition a secret. Parents warn their kids away from her. She can’t attend school on-base for fear of harassment or worse. And although her parents try to hide it, being ostracized by their only social circle while they’re thousands of miles from home is taking a toll on them too.
More and more, Shannon leans on Trevor. But she’s also drawn to him, and he’s drawn right back to her, feeling things he’s never felt for anyone before.
Trevor’s scared, though. Not of dating a trans girl. Not of damaging his chaplain father’s career or reputation. After finally getting his friend back, does he dare take things further and risk losing Shannon a second time?
Total Score: 5/5
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Summary:
Being an army brat means traveling to new placements where ever your parent is sent. Trevor lost contact with his best friend Brad when they were transferred and hadn't heard from him until he received an email that he would be arriving at their base in Spain. Brad seemed nervous and scared about them meeting again and when they meet Trevor was shocked to learn that Brad was now Shannon. The shock was more than Trevor expected leading to misunderstanding and hurt feelings.
This book was an incredible look into the emotional, physical and psychological difficulties that someone who is undergoing transition. Shannon was lucky to have the love and support of her parents, but the anger and hate from other people must have been difficult to endure. It was inspiring how Trevor and he other friends from Japan accepted her without reservation allowing her to be herself. I would recommend this book to anyone who is transitioning or knows someone who is. This story showed how important it is to be willing to listen to each other and understand that our differences make up who we are.
Author: Ann Gallagher
Publisher: Ann Gallagher
ISBN: B07172NXLP
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Having-Her-Bac...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Trevor Larson is a Navy brat. He’s used to moving every few years, and thanks to social media, he can stay in touch with the friends he leaves behind. But shortly after he leaves Okinawa, his best friend, Brad Gray, cuts off contact and disappears.
Four years and two bases later, Brad resurfaces—and announces his family is coming to Trevor’s base in Spain. But a lot’s changed in four years, and Trevor is stunned to find out Brad is now Shannon. Their reunion isn’t quite what either of them had hoped for, but they quickly find their footing, both relieved to have each other back.
Except nothing is ever all sunshine and roses. The military is a small world, and there’s no keeping Shannon’s transition a secret. Parents warn their kids away from her. She can’t attend school on-base for fear of harassment or worse. And although her parents try to hide it, being ostracized by their only social circle while they’re thousands of miles from home is taking a toll on them too.
More and more, Shannon leans on Trevor. But she’s also drawn to him, and he’s drawn right back to her, feeling things he’s never felt for anyone before.
Trevor’s scared, though. Not of dating a trans girl. Not of damaging his chaplain father’s career or reputation. After finally getting his friend back, does he dare take things further and risk losing Shannon a second time?
Total Score: 5/5
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Summary:
Being an army brat means traveling to new placements where ever your parent is sent. Trevor lost contact with his best friend Brad when they were transferred and hadn't heard from him until he received an email that he would be arriving at their base in Spain. Brad seemed nervous and scared about them meeting again and when they meet Trevor was shocked to learn that Brad was now Shannon. The shock was more than Trevor expected leading to misunderstanding and hurt feelings.
This book was an incredible look into the emotional, physical and psychological difficulties that someone who is undergoing transition. Shannon was lucky to have the love and support of her parents, but the anger and hate from other people must have been difficult to endure. It was inspiring how Trevor and he other friends from Japan accepted her without reservation allowing her to be herself. I would recommend this book to anyone who is transitioning or knows someone who is. This story showed how important it is to be willing to listen to each other and understand that our differences make up who we are.
May 25, 2020
So I'm a trans lady. I really like reading books with trans ladies, even though AFAIK this author is cis.
Let me start with a quick word to any pre-transition or curious readers: US INSURANCE TYPICALLY COVERS HRT. It covers mine. It covers everyone in my support group. The book suggests multiple times that it won't, but that's simply not true, and I don't want anyone questioning to be scared off by "cost." I pay about 20 bucks a month for my hormones.
Okay onto actual book stuff:
Storywise this book was one of the girl coming out against boy fighting to accept her new reality. There were criticisms I read before I checked out the book that it was a cis guy looking for a pat on the back for not being an a-hole, and I can kind of see how people could get that. On the whole though? I liked it.
It's a pretty pleasant read (Mostly, the misgendering in the first chapters had me gritting my teeth HARD) and having their friend group be so "go with it" on everything that happens between the leads, and just Shannon's life in general was really nice. Having the preacher be one of the most accepting people in the book? Extremely sweet.
As a trans story, this is only okay for me, but as a scenery story I really liked this one. The author lives in Spain, so setting the book there really was smart. They knew what they were talking about, and it was peppered in with rich cultural things of a culture I don't know to make me feel like I was somewhere more exotic. They also either lived through or did their work to learn what it was like growing up in a military family, and that helped a great deal.
The language itself could maybe have used one more pass by an editor. There's a lot of typos, a lot of overused words, and a lot of sentences that are more stilted than they need to be. Author also tends to use extraneous words (that, though, just) far too often, and frequently uses passive voice to the detriment of the flow of the lines. They're nowhere near a debut author in general, so I was a bit surprised by how noticeable this part was.
Final rating for me here would be something like 3.25?
If you want trans coming out books though, "Birthday" by Meredith Russo continues to reign supreme in my opinion.
Let me start with a quick word to any pre-transition or curious readers: US INSURANCE TYPICALLY COVERS HRT. It covers mine. It covers everyone in my support group. The book suggests multiple times that it won't, but that's simply not true, and I don't want anyone questioning to be scared off by "cost." I pay about 20 bucks a month for my hormones.
Okay onto actual book stuff:
Storywise this book was one of the girl coming out against boy fighting to accept her new reality. There were criticisms I read before I checked out the book that it was a cis guy looking for a pat on the back for not being an a-hole, and I can kind of see how people could get that. On the whole though? I liked it.
It's a pretty pleasant read (Mostly, the misgendering in the first chapters had me gritting my teeth HARD) and having their friend group be so "go with it" on everything that happens between the leads, and just Shannon's life in general was really nice. Having the preacher be one of the most accepting people in the book? Extremely sweet.
As a trans story, this is only okay for me, but as a scenery story I really liked this one. The author lives in Spain, so setting the book there really was smart. They knew what they were talking about, and it was peppered in with rich cultural things of a culture I don't know to make me feel like I was somewhere more exotic. They also either lived through or did their work to learn what it was like growing up in a military family, and that helped a great deal.
The language itself could maybe have used one more pass by an editor. There's a lot of typos, a lot of overused words, and a lot of sentences that are more stilted than they need to be. Author also tends to use extraneous words (that, though, just) far too often, and frequently uses passive voice to the detriment of the flow of the lines. They're nowhere near a debut author in general, so I was a bit surprised by how noticeable this part was.
Final rating for me here would be something like 3.25?
If you want trans coming out books though, "Birthday" by Meredith Russo continues to reign supreme in my opinion.
June 9, 2020
La dulzura del romance juvenil
Cuando tenía 12 años, Trevor perdió el contacto con su mejor amigo. Ahora, cuatro años después, su amigo estar devuelta. Pero ahora es su amiga, Shannon.
Este libro trata sobre el paso del amor a la amistad de dos amigues de la infancia, donde ella es una chica trans y ambos viven con sus familias y gente en una base militar yanqui en España, rodeados de gente conservadora y transfóbica, e historia antigua y monumentos históricos.
Una historia dulce e indignante en partes iguales. La parte del romance juvenil, el "friends to lovers" fue adorable y tuvo un desarrollo corto pero intenso y tierno, como debe ser.
Como persona cis no puedo realmente opinar sobre la representación de Shannon como chica trans, aunque puedo opinar como ser humano empático y decir que sus sentimientos siempre me parecieron válidos y coherentes. Y me pareció muy respetuoso e informado el retrato que pintó la autora.
Lo que sí puedo asegurar es que las reacciones que la gente que la apoya son realistas en su variedad, en las meteduras de pata y en la necesidad de leer e informarse. Nada se da por sentado, y todo puede hablarse si se hace desde el respeto.
Amé la ambientación, el sur de España visto a través de los ojos de una adolescente fan de la Historia. Las descripciones envolventes pero no exageradas son todo lo que necesitaba.
Recomiendo totalmente libro como lectura rápida, dulce, y que despierta preguntas entre los que queremos entender pero no estamos suficientemente informados. ¡A investigar se ha dicho!
Cuando tenía 12 años, Trevor perdió el contacto con su mejor amigo. Ahora, cuatro años después, su amigo estar devuelta. Pero ahora es su amiga, Shannon.
Este libro trata sobre el paso del amor a la amistad de dos amigues de la infancia, donde ella es una chica trans y ambos viven con sus familias y gente en una base militar yanqui en España, rodeados de gente conservadora y transfóbica, e historia antigua y monumentos históricos.
Una historia dulce e indignante en partes iguales. La parte del romance juvenil, el "friends to lovers" fue adorable y tuvo un desarrollo corto pero intenso y tierno, como debe ser.
Como persona cis no puedo realmente opinar sobre la representación de Shannon como chica trans, aunque puedo opinar como ser humano empático y decir que sus sentimientos siempre me parecieron válidos y coherentes. Y me pareció muy respetuoso e informado el retrato que pintó la autora.
Lo que sí puedo asegurar es que las reacciones que la gente que la apoya son realistas en su variedad, en las meteduras de pata y en la necesidad de leer e informarse. Nada se da por sentado, y todo puede hablarse si se hace desde el respeto.
Amé la ambientación, el sur de España visto a través de los ojos de una adolescente fan de la Historia. Las descripciones envolventes pero no exageradas son todo lo que necesitaba.
Recomiendo totalmente libro como lectura rápida, dulce, y que despierta preguntas entre los que queremos entender pero no estamos suficientemente informados. ¡A investigar se ha dicho!
May 2, 2018
3.5 At 16, Trevor is excited to learn that the family of his best male friend from a previous Naval base posting is going to be posted at the same base in Spain where he and his family are now. But he's taken aback when Brad shows up as a Shannon, a trans girl. He rushes out, angry that his friend never trusted him enough to confide in him back when they were 12 year olds. After the two get over their hurt feelings, Trevor gradually draws Shannon into his quite sympathetic group of male friends and their girlfriends, and even more gradually beings to realize he is developing romantic feelings for Shannon himself. Everything unfolds pretty much as you expect it to, with older folks being more wary of Shannon than the younger generation. I particularly liked the depiction of Trevor's minister-father, a man dealing with his own PTSD while ministering to other soldiers, and trying to ride the wave of his own evolving stance about LGBTQ issues. There's not much character development to either Trevor or Shannon beyond their experiences with trans issues/experiences, alas. But an extra half star for featuring a teen trans character, and exploring many of the issues faced by a boy transitioning to being a girl while still living with her parents.
June 24, 2020
Trevor used to be best friends with Brad, until his family was transferred to another military base. Brad then ghosted Trevor & closed all his media accounts. When his family is yet again transferred to a base where Trevor’s family is located, he decides to contact him again.
Only Trevor doesn’t know that Brag is now a trans girl named Shannon. He also doesn’t know that Shannon used to really like Trevor as more than just friends.
Their first meeting didn’t go quite as planned, but after all was explained, Shannon met up with their old friends who were really nice...
Trevor’s parents support Shannon & their relationship at a level that’s quite unexpected, but gives me hope... His father is a chaplain, & at one point he asks the ladies who like to gossip after church, “You tell me.... if your son came to you and said he needed to transition, what choice would you make? Raise a girl, or bury a boy?”
Well said. Enough said, really.
This is a really nice love story with two young adults... The characters are quite young compared to the ones this author usually writes about, but the topic is dealt with really well. I would have liked them to take their relationship to the next level, but all in all, this was a nice, sweet story.
Only Trevor doesn’t know that Brag is now a trans girl named Shannon. He also doesn’t know that Shannon used to really like Trevor as more than just friends.
Their first meeting didn’t go quite as planned, but after all was explained, Shannon met up with their old friends who were really nice...
Trevor’s parents support Shannon & their relationship at a level that’s quite unexpected, but gives me hope... His father is a chaplain, & at one point he asks the ladies who like to gossip after church, “You tell me.... if your son came to you and said he needed to transition, what choice would you make? Raise a girl, or bury a boy?”
Well said. Enough said, really.
This is a really nice love story with two young adults... The characters are quite young compared to the ones this author usually writes about, but the topic is dealt with really well. I would have liked them to take their relationship to the next level, but all in all, this was a nice, sweet story.
September 4, 2017
4 out of 5 stars
Description ~
Trevor Larson is a Navy brat. He’s used to moving every few years, and thanks to social media, he can stay in touch with the friends he leaves behind. But shortly after he leaves Okinawa, his best friend, Brad Gray, cuts off contact and disappears.
Four years and two bases later, Brad resurfaces—and announces his family is coming to Trevor’s base in Spain. But a lot’s changed in four years, and Trevor is stunned to find out Brad is now Shannon. Their reunion isn’t quite what either of them had hoped for, but they quickly find their footing, both relieved to have each other back.
Except nothing is ever all sunshine and roses. The military is a small world, and there’s no keeping Shannon’s transition a secret. Parents warn their kids away from her. She can’t attend school on-base for fear of harassment or worse. And although her parents try to hide it, being ostracized by their only social circle while they’re thousands of miles from home is taking a toll on them too.
More and more, Shannon leans on Trevor. But she’s also drawn to him, and he’s drawn right back to her, feeling things he’s never felt for anyone before.
Trevor’s scared, though. Not of dating a trans girl. Not of damaging his chaplain father’s career or reputation. After finally getting his friend back, does he dare take things further and risk losing Shannon a second time?
My Review ~
To Come with blog post
Description ~
Trevor Larson is a Navy brat. He’s used to moving every few years, and thanks to social media, he can stay in touch with the friends he leaves behind. But shortly after he leaves Okinawa, his best friend, Brad Gray, cuts off contact and disappears.
Four years and two bases later, Brad resurfaces—and announces his family is coming to Trevor’s base in Spain. But a lot’s changed in four years, and Trevor is stunned to find out Brad is now Shannon. Their reunion isn’t quite what either of them had hoped for, but they quickly find their footing, both relieved to have each other back.
Except nothing is ever all sunshine and roses. The military is a small world, and there’s no keeping Shannon’s transition a secret. Parents warn their kids away from her. She can’t attend school on-base for fear of harassment or worse. And although her parents try to hide it, being ostracized by their only social circle while they’re thousands of miles from home is taking a toll on them too.
More and more, Shannon leans on Trevor. But she’s also drawn to him, and he’s drawn right back to her, feeling things he’s never felt for anyone before.
Trevor’s scared, though. Not of dating a trans girl. Not of damaging his chaplain father’s career or reputation. After finally getting his friend back, does he dare take things further and risk losing Shannon a second time?
My Review ~
To Come with blog post
December 4, 2017
2017 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Having Her Back Ann Gallagher
1) Very well developed story and characters. The authors writing style lead to the characters and plot feeling like a cohesive whole rather than just a story being told.
2) A sweet, well written, and thoroughly realistic coming-of-age romance. I loved every word.
3) The Spanish location and the background of US military based abroad were well woven into the story in a way that was accurate and beautiful to read. The relationships between all the characters were realistic and well written. I was pleased the young characters in the book had no issue with gay identities or a transperson, which is very realistic among youth of today. An excellent book, which after reading on kindle I bought in print too. I enjoy YA fiction and as a YA romance, this was as good as any that I've read. I'd highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading YA romance.
1) Very well developed story and characters. The authors writing style lead to the characters and plot feeling like a cohesive whole rather than just a story being told.
2) A sweet, well written, and thoroughly realistic coming-of-age romance. I loved every word.
3) The Spanish location and the background of US military based abroad were well woven into the story in a way that was accurate and beautiful to read. The relationships between all the characters were realistic and well written. I was pleased the young characters in the book had no issue with gay identities or a transperson, which is very realistic among youth of today. An excellent book, which after reading on kindle I bought in print too. I enjoy YA fiction and as a YA romance, this was as good as any that I've read. I'd highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading YA romance.
May 20, 2020
This was an okay read but the writing left a lot to be desired. I thought the conversations about being trans and acceptance were wonderful, with some great adults who were supportive (but unfortunately some who were not), but the other conversations were all a little lackluster. Yes, I get that they are teenagers, but all the mundane conversations were a little too mundane - like awkward conversations between acquaintances in a supermarket about the traffic or weather, or "hey remember when". Eh.
There wasn't much to the plot itself, which mostly centered around Shannon's fluctuating emotions about herself and Trevor's growing feelings for her. The setting itself was what kind of annoyed me the most - most of it takes place on a Naval base in Spain and being not from a military family I had trouble understanding certain terms and abbreviations in the beginning. Then there were scenes that took place at historical sites or in actual Spanish cities, but they read a little bit more like a guide book rather than actually placing the reader there within the world of these characters. And I know they're teenagers but there has to be another word other than "cool" or "amazing" to describe things because I was literally pulling at my hair when I saw "cool" multiple times in one paragraph.
The characters were okay but not all that interesting? Other than their emotions for each other and about Shannon being transgender there really wasn't all that much to them. Shannon likes history. Trevor...is nice? I didn't care all that much for how Shannon twice put words into Trevor's mouth that weren't there, and Trevor kept overthinking things and then constantly apologizing.
And the side characters, aside from Trevor's father and Shannon's parents, could have probably all been named the exact same thing that's how distinct from one another they were. They had almost zero personality. Either they accepted Shannon or hated her and that was their entire existence as far as I could tell?
Again, the parts concerning Shannon being transgender and acceptance were all pretty good, I just think the rest of it needed some work. More plot, better world-building, and more personality to the characters.
3 stars
There wasn't much to the plot itself, which mostly centered around Shannon's fluctuating emotions about herself and Trevor's growing feelings for her. The setting itself was what kind of annoyed me the most - most of it takes place on a Naval base in Spain and being not from a military family I had trouble understanding certain terms and abbreviations in the beginning. Then there were scenes that took place at historical sites or in actual Spanish cities, but they read a little bit more like a guide book rather than actually placing the reader there within the world of these characters. And I know they're teenagers but there has to be another word other than "cool" or "amazing" to describe things because I was literally pulling at my hair when I saw "cool" multiple times in one paragraph.
The characters were okay but not all that interesting? Other than their emotions for each other and about Shannon being transgender there really wasn't all that much to them. Shannon likes history. Trevor...is nice? I didn't care all that much for how Shannon twice put words into Trevor's mouth that weren't there, and Trevor kept overthinking things and then constantly apologizing.
And the side characters, aside from Trevor's father and Shannon's parents, could have probably all been named the exact same thing that's how distinct from one another they were. They had almost zero personality. Either they accepted Shannon or hated her and that was their entire existence as far as I could tell?
Again, the parts concerning Shannon being transgender and acceptance were all pretty good, I just think the rest of it needed some work. More plot, better world-building, and more personality to the characters.
3 stars
July 27, 2018
Love gets me every time...
Ms Gallagher builds a wholly convincing story of adolescent friendship and young love set within the very tight knit and in many ways, amplified confines of a military base community. In this case it becomes the perfect setting to explore the trials and tribulations of young friendship and love when there is the complicating of gender dysphoria and resulting transition. There is enough drama to keep the story moving and certainly more than enough concepts to push the reader into "I never thought about it like that." I do love reading stories where it seems to all work out, even though real life can be dishearteningly unlike that. But the purpose of books like these is not to illustrate the world so much as it is, (we have the news and opinion media for that) rather it is to renew and reinforce hope...that we CAN be our better selves.
Ms Gallagher builds a wholly convincing story of adolescent friendship and young love set within the very tight knit and in many ways, amplified confines of a military base community. In this case it becomes the perfect setting to explore the trials and tribulations of young friendship and love when there is the complicating of gender dysphoria and resulting transition. There is enough drama to keep the story moving and certainly more than enough concepts to push the reader into "I never thought about it like that." I do love reading stories where it seems to all work out, even though real life can be dishearteningly unlike that. But the purpose of books like these is not to illustrate the world so much as it is, (we have the news and opinion media for that) rather it is to renew and reinforce hope...that we CAN be our better selves.
March 12, 2021
After reading quite a few of the reviews regarding Having Her Back, I found myself agreeing with a lot of the feedback Goodreads members were giving and adjusted my initial star review. Then I started looking (for two hours) for other romance books with a transfemme main character falling in love with a cismale character and couldnt find anymore. I had read every book and, sad to say, I can count them on one hand. As I type this out I'm still shocked and disappointed by this fact. As a 35 y/o single transwoman who dates (or at least, tries to) cis-men, representation matters. Especially in times of heartache, loneliness and longing; when you need to see yourself in another character in a book that regrettably does not exist in the literary world. Where is our hope? Where are our heroines? Is this book perfect? Far from it. But it exists as does Shannon and I am so incredibly grateful for Ann Gallagher writing it.
October 26, 2017
When best buddies from years ago, when they were like 12, reunite but one of them has transitioned, how do they reconnect? Ann Gallagher shows us how they each try to understand their feelings as they sort out how their friendship is the same, yet different in important ways.
Set on and near a military base overseas, they're confronted by some of the most intolerant and hateful attitudes from some of the old guard, but thankfully the others, including their young circle of friends, pretty much just roll with the changes, which is so refreshing.
Warning: Tears here and there. This is about love.
Set on and near a military base overseas, they're confronted by some of the most intolerant and hateful attitudes from some of the old guard, but thankfully the others, including their young circle of friends, pretty much just roll with the changes, which is so refreshing.
Warning: Tears here and there. This is about love.
April 3, 2018
This book read too much like a PSA on transexualism, taking away the storytelling of the romance. There was a lot of info dumping about being transgender and how the whole process works, which for many people, myself included, we don't know a lot about that world. At the same time, we didn't get to see character development because there wasn't time for it. I didn't really know anything about Shannon other than she was transgender and liked pineapple on pizza. There has to be more about her other than those two things. Trevor didn't have much more personality either. I would have liked to see the relationship build more.
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