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Femme #2
Masc
Lionel and Dog are back in this follow-up to the Lambda finalist, Femme. Almost six months have passed and, after taking an online quiz, Lionel believes their relationship is doomed because they have nothing in common. To save their future together, the pair joins a gay bowling league and discovers that Lionel is an excellent, if somewhat eccentric, bowler.
Meanwhile, Dog gets profiled in a work newsletter. He’s excited that he’s out at work, but doesn’t immediately realize that by fawning over Dog’s masculine nature the writer was also putting down all femme guys. Lionel takes it personally, which leads the to a crisis in their relationship. Attempting to make it up to Lionel, Dog makes a grand gesture—which backfires spectacularly.
Will the two manage to put things right? And will a night in jail, a morning of drag bingo, an afternoon of day drinking, and a month of moping make things better or worse?
Meanwhile, Dog gets profiled in a work newsletter. He’s excited that he’s out at work, but doesn’t immediately realize that by fawning over Dog’s masculine nature the writer was also putting down all femme guys. Lionel takes it personally, which leads the to a crisis in their relationship. Attempting to make it up to Lionel, Dog makes a grand gesture—which backfires spectacularly.
Will the two manage to put things right? And will a night in jail, a morning of drag bingo, an afternoon of day drinking, and a month of moping make things better or worse?
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2018
53 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Marshall Thornton
56 books628 followersThree-time Lambda Award-winning author, Marshall Thornton is best known for the Boystown and Pinx Video mystery series. Other novels include the erotic comedy The Perils of Praline, or the Amorous Adventures of a Southern Gentleman in Hollywood, Desert Run and Full Release. Marshall has an MFA in screenwriting from UCLA, where he received the Carl David Memorial Fellowship and was recognized in the Samuel Goldwyn Writing awards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
April 25, 2018
4 Stars.
This is a delightful sequel to the fabulous Femme ,although I think it could be read on it's own.Marshall Thornton, once again delivers an engaging story.
Lionel is unashamedly femme, from his colourful clothes,his love of boy shorts,guy liner,and heels....he's a true force of nature.
Dog is just the opposite.He's just recently come out to his family(who are quite brilliant), and while he's not ashamed of his sexuality he's not completely out and proud at work.
This book finds Lionel and Dog six months into their relationship but are things about to hit a rocky patch?
Lionel is fretting...
-he's just done an online quiz and is horrified to discover he and Dog don't have much in common....well,there's sex but he's still worried.
-to make things worse it's the month he hates most,which he's named Mopey May when all he wants to do is hide in his apartment,with a copious amount of ice cream,frozen pizza,and bad DVD's....but he can't..
While Lionel is fretting,
Dog has his own problem...
It seems someone at work has quite the thing for him and wants to publish an article about him....but is drama just around the corner and will Lionel's insecurities be unleashed?
When they decide to join a gay bowling team/league this Author's humour comes into full force with a delightful array of characters and of course,Lionel won't be happy unless he's got high heeled bowling shoes....
I loved catching up with these two men and Dog's delightful family and I'm very hopeful more of their highly entertaining story is still to come.
Recommend Read...
An Arc of Masc was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
This is a delightful sequel to the fabulous Femme ,although I think it could be read on it's own.Marshall Thornton, once again delivers an engaging story.
Lionel is unashamedly femme, from his colourful clothes,his love of boy shorts,guy liner,and heels....he's a true force of nature.
Dog is just the opposite.He's just recently come out to his family(who are quite brilliant), and while he's not ashamed of his sexuality he's not completely out and proud at work.
This book finds Lionel and Dog six months into their relationship but are things about to hit a rocky patch?
Lionel is fretting...
-he's just done an online quiz and is horrified to discover he and Dog don't have much in common....well,there's sex but he's still worried.
-to make things worse it's the month he hates most,which he's named Mopey May when all he wants to do is hide in his apartment,with a copious amount of ice cream,frozen pizza,and bad DVD's....but he can't..
While Lionel is fretting,
Dog has his own problem...
It seems someone at work has quite the thing for him and wants to publish an article about him....but is drama just around the corner and will Lionel's insecurities be unleashed?
When they decide to join a gay bowling team/league this Author's humour comes into full force with a delightful array of characters and of course,Lionel won't be happy unless he's got high heeled bowling shoes....
“If you like bowling we’ll get you your own shoes.”“Something strappy with an open toe?”(...)
I loved catching up with these two men and Dog's delightful family and I'm very hopeful more of their highly entertaining story is still to come.
Recommend Read...
An Arc of Masc was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
May 3, 2018
I loved, loved, loved Femme by the very witty Marshall Thornton, but Masc didn't quite have the same effect on me, though I enjoyed it overall.
Lionel and Dog are a great couple. They are complete opposites, and they really balance one another. There is always that great wit and humor between them, especially from Lionel, however, this book was a lot less funny and a lot more serious than Femme.
Just a couple things to get out of the way: Masc cannot be read as a stand-alone. It just can't. It's a continuation of Femme, so you really need that background information. Also, those who don't like their HEAs messed with in any way might not like the ups and downs in Dog and Lionel's relationship in this story. Finally, trigger warnings for sexual harrassment and unwanted touching.
There were a lot of deep parts in Masc, mostly about being true to who you are, similar to the messages from Femme. I liked the overall story, but I was really hoping for something more funny and light and less intense, though there were some really amusing moments.
I enjoyed this book, but, if I'm being completely honest, I almost wish I stopped at Femme. I like my HEAs to stay undisturbed.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
Lionel and Dog are a great couple. They are complete opposites, and they really balance one another. There is always that great wit and humor between them, especially from Lionel, however, this book was a lot less funny and a lot more serious than Femme.
Just a couple things to get out of the way: Masc cannot be read as a stand-alone. It just can't. It's a continuation of Femme, so you really need that background information. Also, those who don't like their HEAs messed with in any way might not like the ups and downs in Dog and Lionel's relationship in this story. Finally, trigger warnings for sexual harrassment and unwanted touching.
There were a lot of deep parts in Masc, mostly about being true to who you are, similar to the messages from Femme. I liked the overall story, but I was really hoping for something more funny and light and less intense, though there were some really amusing moments.
I enjoyed this book, but, if I'm being completely honest, I almost wish I stopped at Femme. I like my HEAs to stay undisturbed.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
June 6, 2018
Hilariously Hilarious!!
Oh god, I nearly peed my pants sooooooo many times reading this follow-up to Femme. It was witty, funny, real, crazy and full of an amazing cast of characters. This was so freakin FUNNY!
THIS NEEDS TO BE A TELEVISION SERIES. I am not kidding. It’s that good. The stars and supporting cast are incredible. I can just picture this! It would be beyond amazing! These characters just pop off the page! Can you tell I liked this? I think I liked it more than Femme. I read and then listened to Femme. I can’t wait until this one comes out in audiobook!
You MUST read Femme before tackling Masc.
So, several months after the end of Femme, Lionel fears that he and Dog have too little in common to make it as a couple. Being in love and loving sex together is not enough to sustain a relationship according to him. Together they decide to join a gay bowling league, and to everyone’s surprise Lionel kills it at the alley.
Dog is facing issues of his own at work including coming out and the advances of a co-worker.
I don’t want to tell you what goes down, but things blow up and come back together again in a beautiful, Thornton Marshall way. This book looks at what it means to be gay and masc, and how those stereotypes affect both straight and gay society. Of course, Thornton does this in clever, ribald and funny scenes.
And, oh god, he leaves the door open for another novel With the very last line in the book. PLEASE, PLEASE, WRITE ANOTHER DOG & LIONEL story, Mr. Thornton!
Oh god, I nearly peed my pants sooooooo many times reading this follow-up to Femme. It was witty, funny, real, crazy and full of an amazing cast of characters. This was so freakin FUNNY!
THIS NEEDS TO BE A TELEVISION SERIES. I am not kidding. It’s that good. The stars and supporting cast are incredible. I can just picture this! It would be beyond amazing! These characters just pop off the page! Can you tell I liked this? I think I liked it more than Femme. I read and then listened to Femme. I can’t wait until this one comes out in audiobook!
You MUST read Femme before tackling Masc.
So, several months after the end of Femme, Lionel fears that he and Dog have too little in common to make it as a couple. Being in love and loving sex together is not enough to sustain a relationship according to him. Together they decide to join a gay bowling league, and to everyone’s surprise Lionel kills it at the alley.
Dog is facing issues of his own at work including coming out and the advances of a co-worker.
I don’t want to tell you what goes down, but things blow up and come back together again in a beautiful, Thornton Marshall way. This book looks at what it means to be gay and masc, and how those stereotypes affect both straight and gay society. Of course, Thornton does this in clever, ribald and funny scenes.
And, oh god, he leaves the door open for another novel With the very last line in the book. PLEASE, PLEASE, WRITE ANOTHER DOG & LIONEL story, Mr. Thornton!
August 1, 2021
Lionel and I had been together almost six months: one Super Bowl, a March Madness, and an entire hockey season if you don’t count the championship games.
Welcome back to the Dog and Lionel Show. I laughed at them in Femme, and I laughed at them here -- but this time around I had warm feelings for them as well. Yes, they're both still dumber than stumps. But they're in love and learning how to be a couple, and I was charmed by their journey. Life can throw challenges at a relationship, but the biggest challenges often come from your own obtuseness, and that's certainly the case for these guys.
Familiar supporting characters return, a slick villain intrudes, Lionel becomes an idiot savant bowler, punches are thrown, drag bingo is played, lots of highlighting was inflicted on my Kindle pages. If you liked Femme, I can't imagine you wouldn't like this too. Based on all the warm fuzzies it gave me, I think it's an even better book.
April 29, 2018
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This was so cute and funny! I enjoyed Dog and Lionel from Femme, although Dog did make me mad from his constant running away and hiding his sexuality. This time Dog redeems himself and I couldn’t be happier. You would think that once the curtain falls, the orchestra plays and the final “The End” is typed, the characters are in love-dove-bliss. Sigh. If you believe that, you don’t know Lionel. 😉 Dog’s sister, Maddy, sends Lionel a “test your relationship” survey, and they are good in their relationship but they are doomed. DOOMED!! Because they have nothing in common, which Lionel thinks is the worst possible thing that could happen.
*Note: I took liberty with the sentence structure to get right to the point of the joke/scene.*
So, to try and save their relationship, and after tossing out several other possible activities, they decide to bowl together. I personally enjoy bowling (not that I am any good; the gutter is like my 2nd home), and wish I could have the lucky talent that Lionel has. Boy, if this book is ever made into a movie, I want to be there on set when they film the bowling scene. Please!
Things between Dog and Lionel are still not great though, because even though they now have bowling in common, Lionel is still stressing about their relationship. On top of that, May is Lionel’s worst month of the year; his mother’s birthday, death and Mother’s Day all take place in May. For some reason, Lionel can’t share his depression over May with Dog, and so he is severely sensitive when Dog shows Lionel an article written for his work newsletter, outing himself. Lionel doesn’t have a problem with that, it’s the other content of the article he has a problem with, such as the fact that the author of the article is bashing femme gay men…like Lionel. That is the last straw for Lionel who has been stressing over them not having anything in common, and so he breaks up with Dog. On Mother’s Day. At Dog’s parents house. With ALL the family there. Yeah, that was fun – for me. Not so much the characters. 😉
I have to say I found this whole situation highly entertaining and couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen to get them back together. Since I don’t want to spoil it I will say jail is involved. Now what could possibly have transpired to make that happen? We’re talking about Dog and Lionel here, so let your imagination run free.
I laughed so much with this story. It seems funnier than Femme, if that’s possible – and Femme was a hoot, when I didn’t want to strangle Dog. Now I love Dog – he is such a sweetie and really loves Lionel and wants nothing more than to make him happy. And Lionel, I love him too. He’s a sweetie too, drama queen for sure, but he doesn’t have a truly mean bone in his body. Unless you are trying to steal his man, then look out. 🙂
This is not a standalone and you need to read Femme first. Femme and Masc would make a wonderful Broadway play/musical. I can just see this play out on stage and I would be the first in line to go see it, if it makes it to my area since Broadway is far from me. Regardless, both of these stories are meant to be seen in live action and I would be all for helping to pick the actors. 😉
4.5 stars
This was so cute and funny! I enjoyed Dog and Lionel from Femme, although Dog did make me mad from his constant running away and hiding his sexuality. This time Dog redeems himself and I couldn’t be happier. You would think that once the curtain falls, the orchestra plays and the final “The End” is typed, the characters are in love-dove-bliss. Sigh. If you believe that, you don’t know Lionel. 😉 Dog’s sister, Maddy, sends Lionel a “test your relationship” survey, and they are good in their relationship but they are doomed. DOOMED!! Because they have nothing in common, which Lionel thinks is the worst possible thing that could happen.
*Note: I took liberty with the sentence structure to get right to the point of the joke/scene.*
“Dog! We’re doomed! According to this our relationship is perfect except that it will never last because we have nothing in common.”
“According to wha— Wait. That doesn’t make sense. If our relationship is perfect, it will last.” That
seemed really logical to me.
“No. We’re doomed.”
“Stop saying that.”
“We have to do something. We have nothing in common.”
“Does that really matter?”
“Of course it matters. We need more things in common. And it can’t be sex.”
“We have lots in common,” [Dog] said. "Why is it bothering you now?”
“It isn’t bothering me, exactly. It’s just that Maddy sent me this listicle.”
“She sent a what?”
“A listicle. It’s an article that’s really a list. Or a list that’s really an article. One or the other.”
I was going to kill my sister. Maddy had ruined everything with one lousy email. Calmly, I turned off the DVD and looked my boyfriend straight in the face.
“Lionel, we’re fine. I love you.”
“Yes, but do you love who I’m going to be?”
That sounded like a trick question. Did he want me to say yes? Or did he want me to say no? I mean, saying yes was committing to a complete unknown. And that seemed like a terrible idea. But then saying no felt wrong. It felt like I wasn’t willing to let him be who he was. And that was also wrong.
“Um, maybe? I’m going to try.”
“What if I turn out to be a serial killer?”
“Okay, no.”
“No? You’re not going to love me if I change a little bit?”
“Well, of course I will…wait a minute. Turning into a serial killer is not a little bit. You’re trying to confuse me.”
“Darling, I’m trying to make a point. We have to find a way to grow together and that takes work. That means we need to have things in common.”
“I should probably tell you that if you turn into a serial killer we definitely won’t have anything in common.”
“I’m not going to turn into a serial killer, Dog.”
“Promise?”
“I promise. I would have shown signs of it by now.”
“What are the signs?”
“You know, lying, not caring about right or wrong. Torturing small animals. Things like that.”
“Your neighbor’s cat is missing,” I said. “They put up a sign.”
[Lionel] just rolled his eyes.
So, to try and save their relationship, and after tossing out several other possible activities, they decide to bowl together. I personally enjoy bowling (not that I am any good; the gutter is like my 2nd home), and wish I could have the lucky talent that Lionel has. Boy, if this book is ever made into a movie, I want to be there on set when they film the bowling scene. Please!
Things between Dog and Lionel are still not great though, because even though they now have bowling in common, Lionel is still stressing about their relationship. On top of that, May is Lionel’s worst month of the year; his mother’s birthday, death and Mother’s Day all take place in May. For some reason, Lionel can’t share his depression over May with Dog, and so he is severely sensitive when Dog shows Lionel an article written for his work newsletter, outing himself. Lionel doesn’t have a problem with that, it’s the other content of the article he has a problem with, such as the fact that the author of the article is bashing femme gay men…like Lionel. That is the last straw for Lionel who has been stressing over them not having anything in common, and so he breaks up with Dog. On Mother’s Day. At Dog’s parents house. With ALL the family there. Yeah, that was fun – for me. Not so much the characters. 😉
I have to say I found this whole situation highly entertaining and couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen to get them back together. Since I don’t want to spoil it I will say jail is involved. Now what could possibly have transpired to make that happen? We’re talking about Dog and Lionel here, so let your imagination run free.
I laughed so much with this story. It seems funnier than Femme, if that’s possible – and Femme was a hoot, when I didn’t want to strangle Dog. Now I love Dog – he is such a sweetie and really loves Lionel and wants nothing more than to make him happy. And Lionel, I love him too. He’s a sweetie too, drama queen for sure, but he doesn’t have a truly mean bone in his body. Unless you are trying to steal his man, then look out. 🙂
This is not a standalone and you need to read Femme first. Femme and Masc would make a wonderful Broadway play/musical. I can just see this play out on stage and I would be the first in line to go see it, if it makes it to my area since Broadway is far from me. Regardless, both of these stories are meant to be seen in live action and I would be all for helping to pick the actors. 😉
4.5 stars
March 30, 2019
I just re-read Masc.
I love this series and I hope there will be more.
The characters are so lovable and imperfect, the humor is great, and I love that Marshall Thornton deals with issues in a really interesting, narrative-moving way, without hitting the reader over the head with a 'message'. So good.
Already in Femme, the issue of what is the 'right' way to be gay was a theme, the idea that acting 'effeminate' or 'flamboyant' is somehow lesser than being 'straight-acting' or 'straight-passing,' and that this idea is common in certain parts of the gay community. It's an interesting exploration of toxic masculinity that doesn't just affect the straight world. In Masc, I really appreciated the discussion on having to 'explain' these issues to straight friends and family, and why this may be necessary but is also really tiring and unfair to keep having to have 'teachable moments' with friends, family, acquaintances and strangers.
Living in an urban center and being lucky enough to be in an environment with friends of all different persuasions, sexualities, ethnicities etc, I admit I can sometimes be blinded, thinking that all these cultural, political issues have been solved and now we just have to ensure it stays that way. But as I've come to realise, and try to stay mindful of, that this only the case in some places. We have our little bubbles. We're not all there yet, and that even within these communities, there are divisions that are judgemental and I would argue detrimental. So long story short - it's important to have these discussions. And where better than to do this than in books? I love the way the conversation is present in this book, makes an argument, but it does so seamlessly while being funny and entertaining and still a bit of fluffy romance.
Which brings me to the second theme that was covered in Masc, somewhat related to the first. Going to put it behind a spoiler tag, as it’s a bit of a spoiler.
Anyway, this series is awesome and I love it and everyone should read it. The end.
I love this series and I hope there will be more.
The characters are so lovable and imperfect, the humor is great, and I love that Marshall Thornton deals with issues in a really interesting, narrative-moving way, without hitting the reader over the head with a 'message'. So good.
Already in Femme, the issue of what is the 'right' way to be gay was a theme, the idea that acting 'effeminate' or 'flamboyant' is somehow lesser than being 'straight-acting' or 'straight-passing,' and that this idea is common in certain parts of the gay community. It's an interesting exploration of toxic masculinity that doesn't just affect the straight world. In Masc, I really appreciated the discussion on having to 'explain' these issues to straight friends and family, and why this may be necessary but is also really tiring and unfair to keep having to have 'teachable moments' with friends, family, acquaintances and strangers.
Living in an urban center and being lucky enough to be in an environment with friends of all different persuasions, sexualities, ethnicities etc, I admit I can sometimes be blinded, thinking that all these cultural, political issues have been solved and now we just have to ensure it stays that way. But as I've come to realise, and try to stay mindful of, that this only the case in some places. We have our little bubbles. We're not all there yet, and that even within these communities, there are divisions that are judgemental and I would argue detrimental. So long story short - it's important to have these discussions. And where better than to do this than in books? I love the way the conversation is present in this book, makes an argument, but it does so seamlessly while being funny and entertaining and still a bit of fluffy romance.
Which brings me to the second theme that was covered in Masc, somewhat related to the first. Going to put it behind a spoiler tag, as it’s a bit of a spoiler.
Anyway, this series is awesome and I love it and everyone should read it. The end.
Currently reading
April 21, 2018OMG y'all, I just read a snippit. I snortled. I'm ready for more Lionel and Dog.
Up for pre-order! Aaahhh!
Sequel to Femme
Apparently it'll be in audio, too!
Up for pre-order! Aaahhh!
Sequel to Femme
Apparently it'll be in audio, too!
August 22, 2019
Funny and heartwarming
I'm not going to lie...I was hesitant to read this at first because I'm always apprehensive an author will somehow mess with the previously hard won happy ending.
But, never fear! This was really enjoyable and Lionel and Dog are closer, and happier, than ever by the end. There were a few moments where I thought everything was going to implode, but it all works out. Dog and Lionel are great characters who both experience a lot of growth in this installment, Dog learns a very important lesson, some favorite side characters are back, and, to top it all off, Lionel's sense of humor is on fire. 🔥
I had held off reading Masc mostly because I was hoping the audio featuring Joel Leslie would be released soon (btw, if you haven't listened to 'Femme' I highly recommend it), but have been informed there are no plans to produce the audio at this time so, rather than waiting any longer, I dove in, had a great time, and think I actually like this better than Femme.
Dual POV, established relationship romance with plenty of humor, great pacing, and a wonderful happy ending. I do hope Thornton writes more in this series, I would love to spend more time with Lionel and Dog.
🤞 *fingers crossed* Maybe we'll get Masc on audio one day.
4.5 stars
I'm not going to lie...I was hesitant to read this at first because I'm always apprehensive an author will somehow mess with the previously hard won happy ending.
But, never fear! This was really enjoyable and Lionel and Dog are closer, and happier, than ever by the end. There were a few moments where I thought everything was going to implode, but it all works out. Dog and Lionel are great characters who both experience a lot of growth in this installment, Dog learns a very important lesson, some favorite side characters are back, and, to top it all off, Lionel's sense of humor is on fire. 🔥
I had held off reading Masc mostly because I was hoping the audio featuring Joel Leslie would be released soon (btw, if you haven't listened to 'Femme' I highly recommend it), but have been informed there are no plans to produce the audio at this time so, rather than waiting any longer, I dove in, had a great time, and think I actually like this better than Femme.
Dual POV, established relationship romance with plenty of humor, great pacing, and a wonderful happy ending. I do hope Thornton writes more in this series, I would love to spend more time with Lionel and Dog.
🤞 *fingers crossed* Maybe we'll get Masc on audio one day.
4.5 stars
May 2, 2018
It took me a lot longer to get into this one than I did the original Femme, but Lionel and Dog are still crazy fun together and still trying to navigate their way through life.
Lionel is panicking that him and Doug have nothing in common, Doug is trying to avoid the attentions of a creepy hospital colleague and the rest of the gang are alternatively chasing their happy ending or getting caught up in the muddle of already finding one.
I didn't find this one as funny as Femme, although it still has its moments, but it does carry the same great message about being true to yourself and being the best person you can be.
It ends on an open note once again so I don't know if more is yet to come for Lionel and Dog but they are very definitely starting a long term HEA.
#ARC kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Lionel is panicking that him and Doug have nothing in common, Doug is trying to avoid the attentions of a creepy hospital colleague and the rest of the gang are alternatively chasing their happy ending or getting caught up in the muddle of already finding one.
I didn't find this one as funny as Femme, although it still has its moments, but it does carry the same great message about being true to yourself and being the best person you can be.
It ends on an open note once again so I don't know if more is yet to come for Lionel and Dog but they are very definitely starting a long term HEA.
#ARC kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
May 3, 2018
You'll need to have read the first book this is ery much a continuation of the tale.
There was a lot I liked, the humour, the differences between the characters and how everyone - well at least almost everyone, was sympathetic. People can be oblivious and everyone approaches life with different experiences and therefore a very different focus, that's made very clear here. Didn't much respect Dog's sister but that's by-the-by. There's a message about being yourself, not following expectations. Being different is wonderful, the trick is finding that someone whose differences compliment yours.
The book alternates pov and these two think and act very, very differently. Sometimes had to adjust when the pov changed it, can recount events a little.
I like these guys. The little side character's sketch was sweet and funny. But there is a serious case of sexual harassment here. It's dealt with, I wont spoil by saying how, but I found how it was dealt with unsatisfactory. The feelings it evoked were very clear without overwrought angst, but how it resolves didn't work for me. Some aspects of that left me mad.
It is however a light happy read, I skipped happily through it. Wavering over rating and I think 4.5* is the best fit.
There was a lot I liked, the humour, the differences between the characters and how everyone - well at least almost everyone, was sympathetic. People can be oblivious and everyone approaches life with different experiences and therefore a very different focus, that's made very clear here. Didn't much respect Dog's sister but that's by-the-by. There's a message about being yourself, not following expectations. Being different is wonderful, the trick is finding that someone whose differences compliment yours.
The book alternates pov and these two think and act very, very differently. Sometimes had to adjust when the pov changed it, can recount events a little.
I like these guys. The little side character's sketch was sweet and funny. But there is a serious case of sexual harassment here. It's dealt with, I wont spoil by saying how, but I found how it was dealt with unsatisfactory. The feelings it evoked were very clear without overwrought angst, but how it resolves didn't work for me. Some aspects of that left me mad.
It is however a light happy read, I skipped happily through it. Wavering over rating and I think 4.5* is the best fit.
May 8, 2018
Almost two years after the release of Femme that not only won the hearts of the true romantic comedy lovers but was also nominated for the Lammys in the category Gay Romance, Marshall Thornton pleasantly surprised his readers with Masc, a wonderful addition to the Femme series.
We meet Dog and Lionel here again, 6 months later. They are on their way to become an established couple, and things seem to be really good between them. Well. Almost good.
If there were not this stupid online quiz that Dog's sister forwarded to Lionel. Now Lionel is concerned that their relationship with Dog is doomed. Because they don't have anything in common.
"We have to do something. We have nothing in common."
"Does that really matter?"
"Of course it matters. What are we going to do when we're old and gray and stop having sex?"
"Why would we stop having sex?"
They both like to watch TV, but they like different shows, they like different movies (Dog needs more action and less talking, Lionel with a lot of talking), they like different kind of pizza, Lionel likes theater and musical, Dog prefers sport events. The solution of this VERY BIG problem is just to find a way to grow together. That means they need to have things in common. Period.
What could be better than gay bowling? Like Dog's softball team?
"Okay. Bowling it is."
My first reaction: how could Lionel forget the old saying opposites attract? And if there is FEMME, there has to be MASC in close proximity to, right? My second reaction: oh, it is much serious as I thought.
Without giving much away: a lot of things are happening in this book, and not only bowling contests. One of most important developments - Dog's accidental coming out at work and the problems related to it. Marshall Thornton touches upon even sensitive topics ( a key word - #MeToo), and of course, this book will make you not just laugh and smile but also think.
Masc is fun pure, it is witty, funny and serious at once. I love absolutely ALL characters, Dog and Lionel, sure, but also many secondary characters that are simply wonderful to meet: Dog's family, Carlos, Tim, Fetch, except maybe Byron Seeley.
You should read this book sloowlyyy, savoring its delightful dialogues and delicious humor.
And as it was already in the first book, the message in this book again is as simple as it is great:
"Be yourself, don't forget who you are and how special you are, be honest with yourself, and just allow yourself to be happy."
Fantastic, right?
August 5, 2018
3.5 stars
This was a cute read! Lionel gets it in his head that he and Dog need to have more in common or their relationship is doomed, so they join a bowling league. That's not as boring as it sounds though, because Lionel ends up being stupid good at bowling.
Lionel annoyed me at times here - he's very impulsive, as we all know, but he goes a little overboard at one point - but he makes up for it in the end. Dog also goes through a bit of a horror situation at work that wasn't fun to read about. Warnings: But overall, the characters were as delightful as the first book, though I do wish I'd waited for the narration, assuming Joel Leslie comes back for it. He was a huge part of what made the first book such a fun experience.
Also, families that overshare are a little creepy. Just a smidgeon. :D And who celebrates Flag Day? That's being way too patriotic.
I want to see Carlos get his own story. He deserves one. He's such a delight. Tim and Fetch were a hoot too, and Dog's father is ... he's trying? LOL.
This was a cute read! Lionel gets it in his head that he and Dog need to have more in common or their relationship is doomed, so they join a bowling league. That's not as boring as it sounds though, because Lionel ends up being stupid good at bowling.
Lionel annoyed me at times here - he's very impulsive, as we all know, but he goes a little overboard at one point - but he makes up for it in the end. Dog also goes through a bit of a horror situation at work that wasn't fun to read about. Warnings: But overall, the characters were as delightful as the first book, though I do wish I'd waited for the narration, assuming Joel Leslie comes back for it. He was a huge part of what made the first book such a fun experience.
Also, families that overshare are a little creepy. Just a smidgeon. :D And who celebrates Flag Day? That's being way too patriotic.
I want to see Carlos get his own story. He deserves one. He's such a delight. Tim and Fetch were a hoot too, and Dog's father is ... he's trying? LOL.
June 24, 2018
Maybe it’s the familiarity of Dog and Lionel, but I enjoyed this even more than Femme. It has a well constructed plot with character growth and lots of genuinely funny lines. I hope 🤞 one day we can see these guys have dessert together. In the meantime I would be more than happy to read whatever they they have happening in their next life chapter.
September 11, 2021
3.5 Stars
Masc is a solid follow up to the Dog and Lionel show. It had many of the same ingredients that were present in the first:
Sassy Lionel? Check
Clueless yet introspective Dog? Yep
Dog’s crazy family? uh huh
Over analysis of how a relationship should look? In spades.
OTT moments? Is the sky blue?
Masc deals a lot with the growing pains of a new relationship and the questions that creep up after the honeymoon phase; Questions about purpose, direction, and the longevity of Lionel and Dog's future. Lionel and Dog also have a lot of personal obstacles they have to battle before they can fully appreciate each other and the relationship they’re building. Things get shaken up when Lionel takes a relationship quiz that shows having nothing in common pretty much equates to a doomed relationship.
Unfortunately for their supposed doomed relationship, shit hits the fan even more when Dog is profiled at work. That article shines the light on biases/stereotypes/gender role issues that plague the MCs, their family, and co-workers. I’m not sure I’m all the way on board with the way Dog had to work through his issues, but I will say that I was raging for a bit during the read.
Dog and Lionel are so silly but stay true to themselves. I enjoyed it for the most part but at times I felt like I was hitting my threshold for dramatics. I was hoping that there would be more growth to the relationship but much of this book was dysfunction with a big helping of OTT. They got their HEA but the cohesiveness took a lonnnnnnnng while to obtain.
I’m not going to lie, I was a tad nervous in the beginning with Graham’s sister being on page so soon. Dog’s family drove me crazy in book one but his sister was the icing on the cray-cray cake. It’s enjoyable to *see* the growth she makes and how far his dad has come since the first book. They all grew on me and become a nice support system for Lionel and Dog.
Dramatics and OTT-ness are pretty much the M.O. for Lionel and Dog’s relationship in Femme so expect the same for this one. There are some serious issues taking place in this book with a trigger warning for sexual harassment and insinuation of past child abuse. It was nice to spend more time with Lionel and Dog. Recommended.
Masc is a solid follow up to the Dog and Lionel show. It had many of the same ingredients that were present in the first:
Sassy Lionel? Check
Clueless yet introspective Dog? Yep
Dog’s crazy family? uh huh
Over analysis of how a relationship should look? In spades.
OTT moments? Is the sky blue?
Masc deals a lot with the growing pains of a new relationship and the questions that creep up after the honeymoon phase; Questions about purpose, direction, and the longevity of Lionel and Dog's future. Lionel and Dog also have a lot of personal obstacles they have to battle before they can fully appreciate each other and the relationship they’re building. Things get shaken up when Lionel takes a relationship quiz that shows having nothing in common pretty much equates to a doomed relationship.
Unfortunately for their supposed doomed relationship, shit hits the fan even more when Dog is profiled at work. That article shines the light on biases/stereotypes/gender role issues that plague the MCs, their family, and co-workers. I’m not sure I’m all the way on board with the way Dog had to work through his issues, but I will say that I was raging for a bit during the read.
Dog and Lionel are so silly but stay true to themselves. I enjoyed it for the most part but at times I felt like I was hitting my threshold for dramatics. I was hoping that there would be more growth to the relationship but much of this book was dysfunction with a big helping of OTT. They got their HEA but the cohesiveness took a lonnnnnnnng while to obtain.
I’m not going to lie, I was a tad nervous in the beginning with Graham’s sister being on page so soon. Dog’s family drove me crazy in book one but his sister was the icing on the cray-cray cake. It’s enjoyable to *see* the growth she makes and how far his dad has come since the first book. They all grew on me and become a nice support system for Lionel and Dog.
Dramatics and OTT-ness are pretty much the M.O. for Lionel and Dog’s relationship in Femme so expect the same for this one. There are some serious issues taking place in this book with a trigger warning for sexual harassment and insinuation of past child abuse. It was nice to spend more time with Lionel and Dog. Recommended.
Copy provided for honest review.
July 28, 2018
Ooh, this is such a great sequel to Femme. I love how Dog and Lionel continue to navigate their path together, especially after Lionel decides that they don't have enough in common to have a successful relationship. Hence the bowling league .... and Lionel's unorthodox bowling style, which strangely enough makes him a fairly good bowler. Meanwhile, Dog is interviewed for his company's newsletter and basically praised for being gay, albeit a "masculine" gay man.
This book isn't an outrageous funny as Femme but I love how Thornton plays on preconceptions here - masculine / feminine, what makes a good relationship (cookie cutter alike-ness?), is marriage automatically the end result of all successful relationship, etc.
Now, I'm counting down the time until Joel Leslie (please gawd!) does the audiobook for Masc!
This book isn't an outrageous funny as Femme but I love how Thornton plays on preconceptions here - masculine / feminine, what makes a good relationship (cookie cutter alike-ness?), is marriage automatically the end result of all successful relationship, etc.
Now, I'm counting down the time until Joel Leslie (please gawd!) does the audiobook for Masc!
May 3, 2018
Part of me feels a little bad not rating this 5★'s. Honestly I don’t know why I am not, 4★'s just felt better to me when I clicked 'I'm Finished'. I think it is because I was a little sad. For all the funny this made me feel it also made me have other not as, well, fun feelings.
I just don’t know. I’ll probably change my mind by the time I’m done typing this all up. Because well…
It was just so wonderful to be back with Lionel and Dog! I think of these books as episodes in their life and this one had an almost realistic feeling while watching them navigate the unknown of being in love.
There was also quite a bit of serious that was done perfectly. It was heavy but it didn’t overwhelm the story, even if it was very serious. I felt so much for Dog in this book. Gah! More and more I love him best.
The secondary characters in these stories are so welcome. At times a funny book loses a lot of funny by being too much. Everything is just enough in these books and I truly find myself laughing out loud. I could just quote Carlos for my review and be done. Seriously.
So, yeah, I’m changing my mind and going with 5★'s again. I kind of loved it.
Oh, and this is not a standalone. You much first read Femme.
I just don’t know. I’ll probably change my mind by the time I’m done typing this all up. Because well…
It was just so wonderful to be back with Lionel and Dog! I think of these books as episodes in their life and this one had an almost realistic feeling while watching them navigate the unknown of being in love.
There was also quite a bit of serious that was done perfectly. It was heavy but it didn’t overwhelm the story, even if it was very serious. I felt so much for Dog in this book. Gah! More and more I love him best.
The secondary characters in these stories are so welcome. At times a funny book loses a lot of funny by being too much. Everything is just enough in these books and I truly find myself laughing out loud. I could just quote Carlos for my review and be done. Seriously.
So, yeah, I’m changing my mind and going with 5★'s again. I kind of loved it.
Oh, and this is not a standalone. You much first read Femme.
May 21, 2018
Sheer This book is Sheer Delight!
This book is in KU.
First of all, this is not a stand-alone book. This couple have a history, though a brief one. though they haven’t been together very long, you need to know what occurred and how they got together in the first place. You really need to read the first book called “Femme,” also a 5-Star read that is in KU as well.
This book like its predecessor is sheer delight. The author wins and is nominated for awards for his fiction and if you begin his oeuvre with this series, you’ll see why as I did.
He is a very skillful and humorous writer. His dialog is amusing. What makes this author a cut above the rest is that the MCs are facing some serious issues, but he manages to give the book a light feel. The issues are “angst-inducing” but this series still feels light-hearted and sparkly because of his humorous writing-style and humorous dialog.
These books have a meaty plot, without padding the page count with endless pages of on-page sexual encounters. There is a little sexy-times, but it’s not very explicit. There is just too much good-stuff plot wise going on for the author to fill this book with a lot of sexy-times.
The MCs are lovable and delightful and Marshall Thornton’s writing and story-telling make for a reading experience of sheer delight!
This book is in KU.
First of all, this is not a stand-alone book. This couple have a history, though a brief one. though they haven’t been together very long, you need to know what occurred and how they got together in the first place. You really need to read the first book called “Femme,” also a 5-Star read that is in KU as well.
This book like its predecessor is sheer delight. The author wins and is nominated for awards for his fiction and if you begin his oeuvre with this series, you’ll see why as I did.
He is a very skillful and humorous writer. His dialog is amusing. What makes this author a cut above the rest is that the MCs are facing some serious issues, but he manages to give the book a light feel. The issues are “angst-inducing” but this series still feels light-hearted and sparkly because of his humorous writing-style and humorous dialog.
These books have a meaty plot, without padding the page count with endless pages of on-page sexual encounters. There is a little sexy-times, but it’s not very explicit. There is just too much good-stuff plot wise going on for the author to fill this book with a lot of sexy-times.
The MCs are lovable and delightful and Marshall Thornton’s writing and story-telling make for a reading experience of sheer delight!
August 15, 2018
One of Marshall Thornton's best qualities is that he can write high comedy with characters that are still fully fleshed out and relatable. Like the previous book "Femme" this book deals with rather serious matters of identity and social norms. Still it manages to be highly entertaining and in no way preachy.
Recommended.
Recommended.
April 29, 2018
4.5 stars
Funny and sweet, as sequels go this was pretty darn good!
Funny and sweet, as sequels go this was pretty darn good!
September 14, 2024
I'm quite skeptical of the idea of "sequels" in the romance genre, but this follow up to Femme was excellent. Lionel gets worried about their relationship, Dog has a problem at work, and they join a bowling league. Very fun. :)
May 3, 2018
Al primero le di cinco estrellas porque de verdad, da una imagen muy refrescante y divertida de este tema, pero con esta segunda parte, aunque no está mal, no creo que aporte mucho tampoco a lo que ya quedó claro en el primer libro.
July 17, 2018
This book takes place 6 months into Lionel and Dog's relationship. Thing are still a bit rocky and Lionel fears that without them having anything in common they may be doomed. They decide to join a bowling league together. It's cute. Unfortunately, lurking in the background is Byron Steely the HR manager at Dog's work who has a tendency to sexually harass Dog. Dog, who is the masculine type, does not know how to handle Byron's advances. It was an eye opening take and honestly I would have like to have seen more consequences placed on Byron for his actions. Overall it was an okay read.
June 5, 2018
I looked at Lionel and asked, “Is this okay? We’re tempting fate, you know.” “Sweetheart, I tempt fate just by getting up in the morning.”
[...]
Carlos shrugged. “It is better to have loved and lost than to have never looked a gift horse in the face.” “That doesn’t even make sense,” I blurted out. “Love doesn’t make sense.” “Hallelujah,” my sister said.
[...]
Carlos shrugged. “It is better to have loved and lost than to have never looked a gift horse in the face.” “That doesn’t even make sense,” I blurted out. “Love doesn’t make sense.” “Hallelujah,” my sister said.
May 2, 2018
Having read the first book in this series, Femme, I jumped at the offer of an advance reader copy of Masc. To me, the title is rather ominous, but as the story unfolds it makes perfect sense.
The story is told in first person and dual point of view. Lionel and Dog are equally likable characters. The book is full of humour, the witty banter laugh-out-loud at times. I was happily reading along with a stupid grin on my face when low and behold the drama-lama strolled in. I found the conflict rather contrived and may have gone, why, oh why?…and then I ate a slice of humble pie when the why, oh why was made clear. Well played.
Bryon causes a lot of drama, and while I had a hard time buying into how far it went, I don’t doubt such things happen.
Carlos, Carlotta, is one of the most engaging side-characters I’ve encountered in a very longtime. I adored every second of page time he was given.
The fact this story is devoid of explicit content was a welcome relief for me. It’s not needed to portray the deep connection between Lionel and Dog.
All in all, this was an extremely enjoyable read and I learned a thing or two about bowling.
Verdict – Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a light-hearted, well written story.
Copy received via LoveBytes LGBT book reviews
The story is told in first person and dual point of view. Lionel and Dog are equally likable characters. The book is full of humour, the witty banter laugh-out-loud at times. I was happily reading along with a stupid grin on my face when low and behold the drama-lama strolled in. I found the conflict rather contrived and may have gone, why, oh why?…and then I ate a slice of humble pie when the why, oh why was made clear. Well played.
Bryon causes a lot of drama, and while I had a hard time buying into how far it went, I don’t doubt such things happen.
Carlos, Carlotta, is one of the most engaging side-characters I’ve encountered in a very longtime. I adored every second of page time he was given.
The fact this story is devoid of explicit content was a welcome relief for me. It’s not needed to portray the deep connection between Lionel and Dog.
All in all, this was an extremely enjoyable read and I learned a thing or two about bowling.
Verdict – Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a light-hearted, well written story.
Copy received via LoveBytes LGBT book reviews
July 3, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Masc is the followup to Marshall Thornton’s delightful Femme and reunites us with Lionel and Dog. I really enjoyed that first story and was excited to see Thornton revisit these guys, this time with a bit of a shift in focus. While in the first book we delved into Lionel and his being a more femme guy, here we look at the perceptions and expectations for a guy like Dog who is more traditionally masculine. I enjoyed getting this other side to the perspective and I think Thornton brings up some interesting issues, particularly when dealing with Dog’s reactions to things and whether that fits into people’s ideas on masculinity. And I enjoyed visiting with these guys again.
I will admit, however, I did have some struggles with this one. First off, I am not a big fan of seeing an existing couple’s happiness threatened by relationship drama in a subsequent story. And this situation seemed all drama to me. The idea that Lionel would freak out totally over a magazine quiz to the point that he is certain the relationship is doomed just seemed absurd. Yes, not totally out of character, but it just seemed so flimsy a premise upon which to hang the book’s conflict. I found myself somewhat exasperated with him. Neither of these guys seem capable of talking to one another either, a fact that is kind of discouraging six months into their relationship.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Masc is the followup to Marshall Thornton’s delightful Femme and reunites us with Lionel and Dog. I really enjoyed that first story and was excited to see Thornton revisit these guys, this time with a bit of a shift in focus. While in the first book we delved into Lionel and his being a more femme guy, here we look at the perceptions and expectations for a guy like Dog who is more traditionally masculine. I enjoyed getting this other side to the perspective and I think Thornton brings up some interesting issues, particularly when dealing with Dog’s reactions to things and whether that fits into people’s ideas on masculinity. And I enjoyed visiting with these guys again.
I will admit, however, I did have some struggles with this one. First off, I am not a big fan of seeing an existing couple’s happiness threatened by relationship drama in a subsequent story. And this situation seemed all drama to me. The idea that Lionel would freak out totally over a magazine quiz to the point that he is certain the relationship is doomed just seemed absurd. Yes, not totally out of character, but it just seemed so flimsy a premise upon which to hang the book’s conflict. I found myself somewhat exasperated with him. Neither of these guys seem capable of talking to one another either, a fact that is kind of discouraging six months into their relationship.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
April 29, 2022
After reading a listicle Lionel worries his doesn't have enough in common with Dog to make a long term relationship work. In search of a shared hobby they decide to join a gay bowling league. It doesn't go quite as planned.
Masc is fabulous. On one level it's a lighthearted opposites attract story. Dog is as masc as they come with a love of traditionally male pastimes and Lionel is unashamedly femme in all of his sparkly gender-fluid glory. It's also an acutely observed commentary on the myriad of ways there are to be gay and the pressures to conform. Lionel and Dog both accept each other. The rest of the world isn't always so understanding. The serious themes are lightened by the humour; Lionel is incredibly witty and Dog makes an excellent straight man.
I hope the series continues.
Masc is fabulous. On one level it's a lighthearted opposites attract story. Dog is as masc as they come with a love of traditionally male pastimes and Lionel is unashamedly femme in all of his sparkly gender-fluid glory. It's also an acutely observed commentary on the myriad of ways there are to be gay and the pressures to conform. Lionel and Dog both accept each other. The rest of the world isn't always so understanding. The serious themes are lightened by the humour; Lionel is incredibly witty and Dog makes an excellent straight man.
I hope the series continues.
July 4, 2018
Masc
By Marshall Thornton
Kenmore Books, 2018
Five stars
The sequel to “Femme,” and Marshall Thornton’s second book in what could be a charming ongoing series, “Masc” revisits the relationship of Lionel and Dog six months in.
The real point to make about this book is that it is more complex than it seems. It is silly, and amusing, but also touches on darker issues that give the story weight. Lionel is a very nelly queen: beautiful and arch and strong in that way effeminate gay men have to be to survive. Dog, on the other hand, is just as naturally butch as Lionel is femme. It’s not a put on: he’s a jock, he has no instinct for style, he likes brown leather sectionals. He is still a little uptight about being out.
But Lionel and Dog love each other. That’s the baseline that Thornton draws for this story. Typically for Lionel, who questions everything all the time, he begins to worry about how different he and Dog are, especially when two of their friends begin to talk to them about wanting to get married. Dog is not one to question; he takes things at face value and tends not to project his fears into the future. Lionel can seem like a flake at times; and Dog can seem, well, slow. But they’re not. Both these young men are generous-hearted, loving, intelligent. They’re just—young. This is where the comedy lies, but also the poignancy of Thornton’s tale of evolving love and bowling.
Yes, bowling.
Given that Thornton is most celebrated for his gritty, noir-ish “Boystown” series, his light-hearted books are a revelation. But there is no fluff here. Thornton does what the best gay writers do: he looks at what being a gay man is today, and he documents some real truth in his fiction. Both Lionel and Dog could be my kids; they face a world entirely different from the one I knew at their age. And yet I see myself in their questioning, their anxiety, their yearning to believe in themselves as a couple.
A real joy in “Masc” is Dog’s family, presented in distinct contrast to Lionel’s unhappy backstory. Mr. and Mrs. Benson make me think of my parents, and how they adjusted to their twenty-year-old son coming home from college one year and telling them about his boyfriend. Dog’s family provides comic spice to their tale, but they also offer historical insight into the importance of family in gay identity. Likewise, Dog and Lionel’s friends are more than foils for their plotline—they demonstrate the “family of choice” that gay men create, whether in addition to or in the place of blood families. Dog and Lionel are fortunate to have both.
And we, as readers, are fortunate to have Marshall Thornton as our story teller.
By Marshall Thornton
Kenmore Books, 2018
Five stars
The sequel to “Femme,” and Marshall Thornton’s second book in what could be a charming ongoing series, “Masc” revisits the relationship of Lionel and Dog six months in.
The real point to make about this book is that it is more complex than it seems. It is silly, and amusing, but also touches on darker issues that give the story weight. Lionel is a very nelly queen: beautiful and arch and strong in that way effeminate gay men have to be to survive. Dog, on the other hand, is just as naturally butch as Lionel is femme. It’s not a put on: he’s a jock, he has no instinct for style, he likes brown leather sectionals. He is still a little uptight about being out.
But Lionel and Dog love each other. That’s the baseline that Thornton draws for this story. Typically for Lionel, who questions everything all the time, he begins to worry about how different he and Dog are, especially when two of their friends begin to talk to them about wanting to get married. Dog is not one to question; he takes things at face value and tends not to project his fears into the future. Lionel can seem like a flake at times; and Dog can seem, well, slow. But they’re not. Both these young men are generous-hearted, loving, intelligent. They’re just—young. This is where the comedy lies, but also the poignancy of Thornton’s tale of evolving love and bowling.
Yes, bowling.
Given that Thornton is most celebrated for his gritty, noir-ish “Boystown” series, his light-hearted books are a revelation. But there is no fluff here. Thornton does what the best gay writers do: he looks at what being a gay man is today, and he documents some real truth in his fiction. Both Lionel and Dog could be my kids; they face a world entirely different from the one I knew at their age. And yet I see myself in their questioning, their anxiety, their yearning to believe in themselves as a couple.
A real joy in “Masc” is Dog’s family, presented in distinct contrast to Lionel’s unhappy backstory. Mr. and Mrs. Benson make me think of my parents, and how they adjusted to their twenty-year-old son coming home from college one year and telling them about his boyfriend. Dog’s family provides comic spice to their tale, but they also offer historical insight into the importance of family in gay identity. Likewise, Dog and Lionel’s friends are more than foils for their plotline—they demonstrate the “family of choice” that gay men create, whether in addition to or in the place of blood families. Dog and Lionel are fortunate to have both.
And we, as readers, are fortunate to have Marshall Thornton as our story teller.
June 22, 2018
Fabulous
If you want to know how gay relationships work, just read Marshall Thornton. This one runs the gamut of emotions, but with lots of laughs to keep the reader in a good place. Another marvelous book. Please keep them coming Mr. Thornton.
If you want to know how gay relationships work, just read Marshall Thornton. This one runs the gamut of emotions, but with lots of laughs to keep the reader in a good place. Another marvelous book. Please keep them coming Mr. Thornton.
May 25, 2018
Joyous, thoughtful; plus, lots about bowling.
Yes, this book makes more sense if you've read Femme first (why wouldn't you? - it's terrific), but good to see a sequel holding its own.
Lionel and Dog have been together for six months. They are happy until...
Once again, Marshall Thornton uses Lionel and Dog to look at what "gay" means - not least, what we want it to mean - and to give a little master class in how to do "opposites attract" perfectly.
I raced through this, smiling all the way, and then read it again with as much enjoyment. The scene at the end where Lionel and Dog discuss when they want dessert? - just lovely. And funny.
Yes, this book makes more sense if you've read Femme first (why wouldn't you? - it's terrific), but good to see a sequel holding its own.
Lionel and Dog have been together for six months. They are happy until...
“Lionel... I love you.”
“Yes, but do you love who I’m going to be?”
That sounded like a trick question. Did he want me to say yes? Or did he want me to say no? I mean, saying yes was committing to a complete unknown. And that seemed like a terrible idea. But then saying no felt wrong. It felt like I wasn’t willing to let him be who he was. And that was also wrong.
“Um, maybe? I’m going to try.”
“What if I turn out to be a serial killer?”
“Okay, no.”
“No? You’re not going to love me if I change a little bit?”
“Well, of course I will…wait a minute. Turning into a serial killer is not a little bit. You’re trying to confuse me.”
“Darling, I’m trying to make a point. We have to find a way to grow together and that takes work. That means we need to have things in common.”
“I should probably tell you that if you turn into a serial killer we definitely won’t have anything in common.”
“I’m not going to turn into a serial killer, Dog.”
“Promise?”
“I promise. I would have shown signs of it by now.”
“What are the signs?”
“You know, lying, not caring about right or wrong. Torturing small animals. Things like that.”
“Your neighbor’s cat is missing,” I said. “They put up a sign.”
Once again, Marshall Thornton uses Lionel and Dog to look at what "gay" means - not least, what we want it to mean - and to give a little master class in how to do "opposites attract" perfectly.
“If you like bowling we’ll get you your own shoes.”
“Something strappy with an open toe?”
I raced through this, smiling all the way, and then read it again with as much enjoyment. The scene at the end where Lionel and Dog discuss when they want dessert? - just lovely. And funny.
May 7, 2018
Lionel and Dog (Doug) are just the greatest couple. Or maybe not so much, when Lionel gets caught up in re-evaluating their relationship and starts to feel like they have nothing in common besides sex. Dog is kind of oblivious to it, though, because he’s happy with Lionel, loves him, and is more than happy with the sex. Dog, being into sports and thinking it would give them something in common, gets Lionel to join the bowling team along with friends Tim and Fetch.
There are all kinds of situations Dog and Lionel run into in their search for commonality, and in doing so their relationship becomes fragile. Dog and Lionel have to face that love happens differently for different people: For Dog’s dad, it was love at first sight, but not for his mom. Tim and Fetch were friends and had no idea they could be a couple until they were. Maddy has a silly sense of humor and has odd ideas about her own relationship with her very different husband, Arthur. And Carlos (Carlotta), who has just discovered porn on his cell phone, is always looking for that someone special.
There are many lessons to learn in this entertaining novel. One of the more important is to just be yourself. The relationship between Lionel and Dog is still blooming, but they both know, deep down, it’s love that keeps them together. Dog sometimes has difficulty expressing himself, and it leads to trouble—not only with work but especially with Lionel. Lionel has some deep seated personal issues, and he doesn’t really share his feelings about them with Dog. Dog and Lionel are opposites, but they have a wonderful chemistry going on, and it leads to many warm and humorous situations. The connection with Dog’s family is somewhat chaotic, but heartwarming and fun too. There are many interesting characters throughout this series, and they are bound to make you smile.
Marshall Thornton delivers another great story about this sweet couple with issues that lead to heartbreak, love and a lot of humorous chaos. The author has a way of spinning humor along with serious issues into his writing. One of the more serious issues involving sexual harassment and the embarrassment and worry of not being believed when admitting it, which introduces the disturbing perception of a man being femme or masculine.
I was really intrigued by Thornton’s writing style in the Pinx Video Mysteries series, so I decided to give Femme a shot, which is the first book about Lionel and Dog, and I highly recommend it. The author made them one of my favorite couples, and I was more than delighted to see Masc come out. I hope there will be more books in the series.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
There are all kinds of situations Dog and Lionel run into in their search for commonality, and in doing so their relationship becomes fragile. Dog and Lionel have to face that love happens differently for different people: For Dog’s dad, it was love at first sight, but not for his mom. Tim and Fetch were friends and had no idea they could be a couple until they were. Maddy has a silly sense of humor and has odd ideas about her own relationship with her very different husband, Arthur. And Carlos (Carlotta), who has just discovered porn on his cell phone, is always looking for that someone special.
There are many lessons to learn in this entertaining novel. One of the more important is to just be yourself. The relationship between Lionel and Dog is still blooming, but they both know, deep down, it’s love that keeps them together. Dog sometimes has difficulty expressing himself, and it leads to trouble—not only with work but especially with Lionel. Lionel has some deep seated personal issues, and he doesn’t really share his feelings about them with Dog. Dog and Lionel are opposites, but they have a wonderful chemistry going on, and it leads to many warm and humorous situations. The connection with Dog’s family is somewhat chaotic, but heartwarming and fun too. There are many interesting characters throughout this series, and they are bound to make you smile.
Marshall Thornton delivers another great story about this sweet couple with issues that lead to heartbreak, love and a lot of humorous chaos. The author has a way of spinning humor along with serious issues into his writing. One of the more serious issues involving sexual harassment and the embarrassment and worry of not being believed when admitting it, which introduces the disturbing perception of a man being femme or masculine.
I was really intrigued by Thornton’s writing style in the Pinx Video Mysteries series, so I decided to give Femme a shot, which is the first book about Lionel and Dog, and I highly recommend it. The author made them one of my favorite couples, and I was more than delighted to see Masc come out. I hope there will be more books in the series.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
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