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#lovehim #2
To Be Honest
Angus Reid is pretty sure he's being catfished.
After spending the last half of junior year talking online to the guy of his dreams, Angus wants to meet. In person. So when Scotty brushes it off with excuses of not being ready, red flags go up.
Determined to either catch Scotty out, or take a shot at real love, Angus embarks on a summer road trip with his adorkable roommate, Tyler. But as summer stretches on, and mixed messages fly between them, Angus finds his heart torn.
His potential catfisher?
Or his straight best friend?
And while their road trip takes them across the country, Angus is headed for one destination.
Either a happily ever after ... or a broken heart.
After spending the last half of junior year talking online to the guy of his dreams, Angus wants to meet. In person. So when Scotty brushes it off with excuses of not being ready, red flags go up.
Determined to either catch Scotty out, or take a shot at real love, Angus embarks on a summer road trip with his adorkable roommate, Tyler. But as summer stretches on, and mixed messages fly between them, Angus finds his heart torn.
His potential catfisher?
Or his straight best friend?
And while their road trip takes them across the country, Angus is headed for one destination.
Either a happily ever after ... or a broken heart.
410 pages, Paperback
First published November 15, 2018
31 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
January 20, 2019
The problem with this book is that it came after some blockbuster lgbt YA books. It felt like a massive let down. It was boring, dragged on for too long in some parts and copied the electronic communication trope from every other book. Hell, even Fifty Shades used this. My favourite exhibition of it was in Simon v Homo Sapiens agenda. But here it was just- blergh. SM James is someone to watch out for though because she has material, she just needs a better tailor or sth. The ending could have been better streamlined and the cheesy drama could have been toned down. Also, the big twist should have been better handled.
May 28, 2020
So now that I know who Angus' two love interests are, I want to re-read this sweet ache of a slow-burn, high school romance for the clues I missed (that must have been right in front of my face)!
If, like me, you love the intrigue of masked-identity plots, even when the secret lover is not so hard to uncover, To Be Honest is a road trip you'll want to take.
Angus' longing is made palpable in the capable hands of S.M. James. And the emotions . . . even the disguised ones . . . between four friends ring true every stop of the route.
Don't miss this one!
If, like me, you love the intrigue of masked-identity plots, even when the secret lover is not so hard to uncover, To Be Honest is a road trip you'll want to take.
Angus' longing is made palpable in the capable hands of S.M. James. And the emotions . . . even the disguised ones . . . between four friends ring true every stop of the route.
Don't miss this one!
November 11, 2018
First of all thanks to the author for providing an ARC for me to read and review!
To Be Honest is the second book in the #lovehim series, but can be read as a standalone. I have to start off by saying that I love the cover of this book! It's different than most covers these days, but I love the drawing and the little details.
Angus met Scotty on a forum a few months ago and felt an instant connection. He really wants to meet Scotty, but Scotty isn't ready. This makes Angus worried, is Scotty really who he says he is? I loved that the book took time to explain what catfishing is and the warning signs. This is a real thing these days and I think teens (and even adults) should be aware of the signs.
Angus starts wondering if he really should feel the way he does for someone he met online, which is pretty understandable. He really wants to find out if he's real, so a road trip seems like the perfect way to spend the summer and make his way to Scotty. He starts this trip with his best friend Anah and his roommate Tyler (his straight roommate who he's kind of had a crush on).
I loved how real this road trip felt (yes, it's a bit unrealistic with a few of the kids being rich and having funds most teenagers won't have), but the tension and doubts all seemed real. Yes, they're friends, but things happen. During this journey, Angus starts becoming confused. Is Scotty real? What about his feelings for Tyler?
To Be Honest (yes, I know it seems like a pun), I figured out how this was going to turn out about a third into this book. I can't get too much into detail, but I was happy to see how it ended, I was disappointed I already guessed.
I loved the character development in this story. Angus is gay and proud of who he is, but realizes this isn't as easy as it seems. His best friend Anah is in a relationship that is in a vicious circle, what should she do? And then there's Tyler who has more going on than it seems!
The chat messages between Scotty and Angus were fun to read along the way, I think it would've helped maybe a bit more to have had a few chapters from Scotty's POV. I love the grand gesture at the end and the fact that the story wasn't happily ever after within a few chapters.
All in all, this was a very pleasant read. I actually finished To Be Honest in two sittings! I am definitely excited about reading more books by this author!
To Be Honest is the second book in the #lovehim series, but can be read as a standalone. I have to start off by saying that I love the cover of this book! It's different than most covers these days, but I love the drawing and the little details.
Angus met Scotty on a forum a few months ago and felt an instant connection. He really wants to meet Scotty, but Scotty isn't ready. This makes Angus worried, is Scotty really who he says he is? I loved that the book took time to explain what catfishing is and the warning signs. This is a real thing these days and I think teens (and even adults) should be aware of the signs.
Angus starts wondering if he really should feel the way he does for someone he met online, which is pretty understandable. He really wants to find out if he's real, so a road trip seems like the perfect way to spend the summer and make his way to Scotty. He starts this trip with his best friend Anah and his roommate Tyler (his straight roommate who he's kind of had a crush on).
I loved how real this road trip felt (yes, it's a bit unrealistic with a few of the kids being rich and having funds most teenagers won't have), but the tension and doubts all seemed real. Yes, they're friends, but things happen. During this journey, Angus starts becoming confused. Is Scotty real? What about his feelings for Tyler?
To Be Honest (yes, I know it seems like a pun), I figured out how this was going to turn out about a third into this book. I can't get too much into detail, but I was happy to see how it ended, I was disappointed I already guessed.
I loved the character development in this story. Angus is gay and proud of who he is, but realizes this isn't as easy as it seems. His best friend Anah is in a relationship that is in a vicious circle, what should she do? And then there's Tyler who has more going on than it seems!
The chat messages between Scotty and Angus were fun to read along the way, I think it would've helped maybe a bit more to have had a few chapters from Scotty's POV. I love the grand gesture at the end and the fact that the story wasn't happily ever after within a few chapters.
All in all, this was a very pleasant read. I actually finished To Be Honest in two sittings! I am definitely excited about reading more books by this author!
May 17, 2019
Okay, so this was adorable. Angus and Tyler were exceptionally cute, although they're both teenagers so they're not exempt from making dumb teenage decisions. But they do what they can to make up for their mistakes, and I adored their relationship.
I wasn't crazy about Angus's best friend, Anah. She went from "Tyler's stringing you along" to "Tyler's gay and totally into you" from one chapter to the next and she's very much not a good influence on Angus. Unfortunately, she was in a lot of the novel. Fortunately, she mostly disappeared in the last third.
Overall, this was a great read with both Angus and Tyler dealing with their own personal issues while trying to navigate their feelings for each other. Highly recommended!
I wasn't crazy about Angus's best friend, Anah. She went from "Tyler's stringing you along" to "Tyler's gay and totally into you" from one chapter to the next and she's very much not a good influence on Angus. Unfortunately, she was in a lot of the novel. Fortunately, she mostly disappeared in the last third.
Overall, this was a great read with both Angus and Tyler dealing with their own personal issues while trying to navigate their feelings for each other. Highly recommended!
May 19, 2020
This was a great story! It brought through any real an array of emotions but Angus and Tyler we're precious .
October 8, 2019
3.5*
This was adorkable smh
I found and picked this book up on a total whim because, not gonna lie, the synopsis made it sound a bit Simon vs. the homo sapiens agenda -ish, aka like something I would absolutely love. And you know what? I did.
In the beginning, it does give off strong svtha vibes with the online messages and the pining over someone you have never actually met and them not being ready to reveal their identity. Reading on, though, this became its own story, which I loved.
This story is about Angus, who decides to go on a road trip with his roommate, Tyler (who he secretly has a crush on), his best friend, Anah, and her boyfriend, Link, to San Francisco to meet the guy he has been chatting to online for the last half of junior year.
I must admit, I predicted the end about twenty percent into the book. But that doesn't matter, I still devoured it. The predictability didn't take from the story at all.
I liked that, upon Anah suggesting Angus should just "go to San Francisco to find and confront Scotty" Angus wasn't straight up on board with it and started questioning whether something like that was okay. In my opinion, it was great that the road trip wasn't just them going straight to California but taking detours and making memories at all the different places.
As far as characters go, I loved Angus. I totally got his motives and understood his feelings perfectly — which might have been because of the writing, too, because that was also great.
It was great to see his character develop on all these subtle ways. He's already out at the beginning of the book, but moving along, he learns and realizes what it means to be proud of who you are.
Tyler is the most precious cinnamon roll and needs to be protected at all costs, that's all I'm going to say about him. 10/10
For Anah and her — how do I say this? Ah, yes *clears throat* — douchebag of a boyfriend? I didn't like either of them. Anah had her moments of being a good best friend, but most times I got the impression she was first and foremost concerned with her own self. Buying Angus a two hundred dollar bracelet doesn't really turn the tables, sorry. Link was awful, he can say (or not say) sorry all he wants, I don't buy it.
The discussion about internalized homophobia is something I loved, although I wish it was talked about more than just once in the middle of the book and once towards the end.
Speaking of the end, oh boy was that a mess. Like I said, I guessed the twist pretty much from the get go, so when it was finally revealed, I wasn't shocked. But that's not it. The things is… how it was handled. The communication, or more so, the lack of it.
The end end I actually loved, I thought the story wrapped up neatly and exactly how I wanted it to, just the, like, thirty pages before were a jumbled mess. I'm not saying everything should have been wrapped up within a couple of pages, but it just felt like a bucket of unnecessary angst was dumped onto me. I don't really think it makes sense that so much times passes until Angus gets the lengthy explanation he deserves.
However, this book was great and I'm glad I picked it up. I met new characters who I now love dearly. I will definitely check out more books in this series!
This was adorkable smh
I found and picked this book up on a total whim because, not gonna lie, the synopsis made it sound a bit Simon vs. the homo sapiens agenda -ish, aka like something I would absolutely love. And you know what? I did.
In the beginning, it does give off strong svtha vibes with the online messages and the pining over someone you have never actually met and them not being ready to reveal their identity. Reading on, though, this became its own story, which I loved.
This story is about Angus, who decides to go on a road trip with his roommate, Tyler (who he secretly has a crush on), his best friend, Anah, and her boyfriend, Link, to San Francisco to meet the guy he has been chatting to online for the last half of junior year.
I must admit, I predicted the end about twenty percent into the book. But that doesn't matter, I still devoured it. The predictability didn't take from the story at all.
I liked that, upon Anah suggesting Angus should just "go to San Francisco to find and confront Scotty" Angus wasn't straight up on board with it and started questioning whether something like that was okay. In my opinion, it was great that the road trip wasn't just them going straight to California but taking detours and making memories at all the different places.
As far as characters go, I loved Angus. I totally got his motives and understood his feelings perfectly — which might have been because of the writing, too, because that was also great.
It was great to see his character develop on all these subtle ways. He's already out at the beginning of the book, but moving along, he learns and realizes what it means to be proud of who you are.
Tyler is the most precious cinnamon roll and needs to be protected at all costs, that's all I'm going to say about him. 10/10
For Anah and her — how do I say this? Ah, yes *clears throat* — douchebag of a boyfriend? I didn't like either of them. Anah had her moments of being a good best friend, but most times I got the impression she was first and foremost concerned with her own self. Buying Angus a two hundred dollar bracelet doesn't really turn the tables, sorry. Link was awful, he can say (or not say) sorry all he wants, I don't buy it.
The discussion about internalized homophobia is something I loved, although I wish it was talked about more than just once in the middle of the book and once towards the end.
Speaking of the end, oh boy was that a mess. Like I said, I guessed the twist pretty much from the get go, so when it was finally revealed, I wasn't shocked. But that's not it. The things is… how it was handled. The communication, or more so, the lack of it.
The end end I actually loved, I thought the story wrapped up neatly and exactly how I wanted it to, just the, like, thirty pages before were a jumbled mess. I'm not saying everything should have been wrapped up within a couple of pages, but it just felt like a bucket of unnecessary angst was dumped onto me. I don't really think it makes sense that so much times passes until Angus gets the lengthy explanation he deserves.
However, this book was great and I'm glad I picked it up. I met new characters who I now love dearly. I will definitely check out more books in this series!
November 14, 2018
Another wonderful coming of age story by S.M. James.
I love how authentic and well-rounded her characters are. Angus, Tyler, Anah and even Link are not “too wise for their age” mini-adults, but genuine young people trying to figure out who they are and what they want their future to be like.
I had the hardest time not skipping ahead to the end to see what the deal was with Scotty. But I refrained and read the book from beginning to end, no peeking, like the grown-up that I am. Scotty remains a mystery for most of the story, but looking for clues to find out more about him was super fun.
This book has an amazing cast of characters apart from Angus. I adored Tyler in all his nerdiness and I loved how well he and Angus click as friends. Anah is Angus’s other amazing friend, who has some romantic issues of her own to deal with along the way. She’s feisty and loyal, and her friendship really makes a difference for Angus. She’s the best!
This is a very enjoyable read and you might think it’s just another lighthearted, feel-good story about friendship , acceptance and love. An exciting road trip, destination: Angus’s happy ending. And that would have been pretty great already… But there’s more to this book than that. Some really touching moments come along to make you blink away a tear or smile softly to yourself, and unexpectedly some ugly reality also sneaks in… and you realize society still has a way to go with regards to homophobia (internalized or otherwise).
This is a story to make you think, even as it brings you hope and gives you all the feels!!
The ending was amazing! It all worked out so beautifully, with "he who shall remain nameless" pulling out all the stops to get his man. Swoon! The switch in pov at the end was great! I was so happy to finally get a glimpse from his perspective, whereas before we only see through Angus's eyes.
Absolutely recommend this story!
I love how authentic and well-rounded her characters are. Angus, Tyler, Anah and even Link are not “too wise for their age” mini-adults, but genuine young people trying to figure out who they are and what they want their future to be like.
I had the hardest time not skipping ahead to the end to see what the deal was with Scotty. But I refrained and read the book from beginning to end, no peeking, like the grown-up that I am. Scotty remains a mystery for most of the story, but looking for clues to find out more about him was super fun.
This book has an amazing cast of characters apart from Angus. I adored Tyler in all his nerdiness and I loved how well he and Angus click as friends. Anah is Angus’s other amazing friend, who has some romantic issues of her own to deal with along the way. She’s feisty and loyal, and her friendship really makes a difference for Angus. She’s the best!
This is a very enjoyable read and you might think it’s just another lighthearted, feel-good story about friendship , acceptance and love. An exciting road trip, destination: Angus’s happy ending. And that would have been pretty great already… But there’s more to this book than that. Some really touching moments come along to make you blink away a tear or smile softly to yourself, and unexpectedly some ugly reality also sneaks in… and you realize society still has a way to go with regards to homophobia (internalized or otherwise).
This is a story to make you think, even as it brings you hope and gives you all the feels!!
The ending was amazing! It all worked out so beautifully, with "he who shall remain nameless" pulling out all the stops to get his man. Swoon! The switch in pov at the end was great! I was so happy to finally get a glimpse from his perspective, whereas before we only see through Angus's eyes.
Absolutely recommend this story!
November 15, 2018
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
To Be Honest
#lovehim, Book 2
S.M. James
★★★★★
280 Pages
POV: 1st person, present tense
Would I read it again?: Of course!
Genre: YA, LGBT, Contemporary, Romance, Humour
Pairings: MM
Warnings: catfishing, internalised homophobia, homophobia, suicide, mental health, bullying, assault
Wow! I barely know what to say.
This series is...beautiful, charming, fun, romantic, and speaks to the hopeless romantic in me. Yet, it also manages to tackle real, everyday issues for teens, in a way that isn't preachy or condescending, or lecturing. Throughout the series, issues such as race, orientation, acceptance, bullying, and even self-awareness have been tackled without once feeling out of place.
Despite the nearly 300 pages of each novel, I binge read each one in less than a day. That's how all-consuming they are, how engaging, and captivating the stories are.
If you haven't read “No Big Deal” yet, then I suggest you do so quickly. It gives a little context, a little extra something to this novel that provides a deeper connection between Tyler and Angus, introducing us to how they met and how the catfishing concept started. And then go back and read book 1 “That Feeling When” and the short “In Real Life” because, trust me, you will not be sorry. I'm happy to say that I'm a series-reader, and I can't abide to read a series out of order, even if they are classed as standalones. So I started with “That Feeling When” and binge read all four stories in less than a week. I've only fallen more and more in love with the world that was created within this series with each story, and I can't wait until December 11th, when the next short “For the Win” is released.
For me, “To Be Honest” is one of those books that you could read again and again and never not fall completely head over heels in love with each page, as you're reading. It's also one of those books that, once you know the meaning of the title, becomes all the more special for it. The fact that it added in spotlights of Archie's life, from book 1, was an added bonus. Despite having read his story first, I loved the contrast of seeing him pre- and post-Yarran, and how Angus reacted to that.
Again, the presentation was on point. From the writing style to the visuals of chapter headings, to the added sub-chapter snippets of Angus and Scotty's chat conversations.
Right from the start, I floved Tyler. He was so weird, so awkward, so nerdy, that it was just right up my alley. His weird dirt thing, the jokes, the weird places he wanted to visit – adorkable perfection, from one science geek to another! Angus, with his easy-breezy acceptance of the subtle homophobia at school, the way he opened up with Tyler, and his staunch support of Anah's inadvisable relationship with Link, just made him as loveable as Tyler. Here were two clueless guys circling each other, with no idea what was really going on. And then Scotty...God, Scotty was something else. Those long talks, the hesitations, the nerves, the fear. My heart bled for him the entire time.
And, as a mystery buff I have to admit that I had my suspicions about the Scotty situation. Whether they really were a catfisher or not. If so, who they would be. My head went in a million different directions, a million different times, while reading, because although it was obvious, it also really wasn't obvious, and I sat on tenderhooks the entire time, trying to figure it out. It's one of those moments that, when the big reveal happens, you sit and go “Oh! Sure, I knew that!” but you questioned and second-guessed yourself every step of the way.
I love the subtle way that each new character, for the next book, is introduced. I love that we always get to see even a tiny snippet of them and their personality, before we delve into their story. It makes me excited to see more of Darien, in December, now that I've had a glimpse of him in this book.
The bonus chapter in Tyler's POV was just...perfection!
I cried. It was ridiculously beautiful. I smiled nearly from start to finish, with some tears, some shocked gasps, some edge-of-the-seat tension in between. And then it ended just so...perfectly. That's the only word for it. It ended just as it was meant to.
And I would still read another novel with these two as the MC's. Just as I would still read another novel with Archie and Yarran. Or all four in one novel. Or any combination the author wants to try. Because this is one series I'll be reading until the last story. And then I'll go back and start all over again, re-reading every sweet word.
~
Favourite Quotes
“Tyler is basically my straight soul mate. It's unbelievable how we just get each other.”
“So I kept my word.
To Be Honest, that was my first mistake.
Falling in love with you was my second.”
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
To Be Honest
#lovehim, Book 2
S.M. James
★★★★★
280 Pages
POV: 1st person, present tense
Would I read it again?: Of course!
Genre: YA, LGBT, Contemporary, Romance, Humour
Pairings: MM
Warnings: catfishing, internalised homophobia, homophobia, suicide, mental health, bullying, assault
Wow! I barely know what to say.
This series is...beautiful, charming, fun, romantic, and speaks to the hopeless romantic in me. Yet, it also manages to tackle real, everyday issues for teens, in a way that isn't preachy or condescending, or lecturing. Throughout the series, issues such as race, orientation, acceptance, bullying, and even self-awareness have been tackled without once feeling out of place.
Despite the nearly 300 pages of each novel, I binge read each one in less than a day. That's how all-consuming they are, how engaging, and captivating the stories are.
If you haven't read “No Big Deal” yet, then I suggest you do so quickly. It gives a little context, a little extra something to this novel that provides a deeper connection between Tyler and Angus, introducing us to how they met and how the catfishing concept started. And then go back and read book 1 “That Feeling When” and the short “In Real Life” because, trust me, you will not be sorry. I'm happy to say that I'm a series-reader, and I can't abide to read a series out of order, even if they are classed as standalones. So I started with “That Feeling When” and binge read all four stories in less than a week. I've only fallen more and more in love with the world that was created within this series with each story, and I can't wait until December 11th, when the next short “For the Win” is released.
For me, “To Be Honest” is one of those books that you could read again and again and never not fall completely head over heels in love with each page, as you're reading. It's also one of those books that, once you know the meaning of the title, becomes all the more special for it. The fact that it added in spotlights of Archie's life, from book 1, was an added bonus. Despite having read his story first, I loved the contrast of seeing him pre- and post-Yarran, and how Angus reacted to that.
Again, the presentation was on point. From the writing style to the visuals of chapter headings, to the added sub-chapter snippets of Angus and Scotty's chat conversations.
Right from the start, I floved Tyler. He was so weird, so awkward, so nerdy, that it was just right up my alley. His weird dirt thing, the jokes, the weird places he wanted to visit – adorkable perfection, from one science geek to another! Angus, with his easy-breezy acceptance of the subtle homophobia at school, the way he opened up with Tyler, and his staunch support of Anah's inadvisable relationship with Link, just made him as loveable as Tyler. Here were two clueless guys circling each other, with no idea what was really going on. And then Scotty...God, Scotty was something else. Those long talks, the hesitations, the nerves, the fear. My heart bled for him the entire time.
And, as a mystery buff I have to admit that I had my suspicions about the Scotty situation. Whether they really were a catfisher or not. If so, who they would be. My head went in a million different directions, a million different times, while reading, because although it was obvious, it also really wasn't obvious, and I sat on tenderhooks the entire time, trying to figure it out. It's one of those moments that, when the big reveal happens, you sit and go “Oh! Sure, I knew that!” but you questioned and second-guessed yourself every step of the way.
I love the subtle way that each new character, for the next book, is introduced. I love that we always get to see even a tiny snippet of them and their personality, before we delve into their story. It makes me excited to see more of Darien, in December, now that I've had a glimpse of him in this book.
The bonus chapter in Tyler's POV was just...perfection!
I cried. It was ridiculously beautiful. I smiled nearly from start to finish, with some tears, some shocked gasps, some edge-of-the-seat tension in between. And then it ended just so...perfectly. That's the only word for it. It ended just as it was meant to.
And I would still read another novel with these two as the MC's. Just as I would still read another novel with Archie and Yarran. Or all four in one novel. Or any combination the author wants to try. Because this is one series I'll be reading until the last story. And then I'll go back and start all over again, re-reading every sweet word.
~
Favourite Quotes
“Tyler is basically my straight soul mate. It's unbelievable how we just get each other.”
“So I kept my word.
To Be Honest, that was my first mistake.
Falling in love with you was my second.”
November 23, 2018
4/5
TW: Homophobic slurs (not many, but there are still a few lines here and there), mentions of depression and suicide, mentions of attempted suicide and physical violence.
To be Honest.. I really enjoyed this book! It was very different from 'That Feeling When', it was darker toward the end and it touched deeper aspects of being homosexual in a heteronormative world. At the same time, though, it managed to give me the same meet-cute vibes and I basically binged it in one day AH! (Who needs sleep anyway).
Also, shout-out for diversity! Our main this time is half-Indian half-american and I think that's really cool because you don't see that often!
Angus frequents Penbrook boarding school, he's part of the football team, and he's out and proud. Or at least, he thinks so. Even though he's out and his friends and teammates are okay with it, he's still unable to be himself 100% of the time, always feeling everyone's judging eyes in himself and unable to shake that feeling off. He also has a slight (huge) crush on his straight roommate Tyler.
Tyler is what everyone would describe as a geek, he's into science, wears glasses and doesn't have a sporty bone in himself. And he's also very self-conscious about all of the above. The only one he is comfortable to be around and see his true self, is Angus, his best friend.
And then there's Scotty, someone who Angus may very well be in love with, if it weren't for the fact that they've never met, and that Angus is starting to believe he's being catfished. To get to the point of this, Angus decides to embark on a log road trip, along with Tyler and his other r eat friend Anah, with San Francisco as his final destination, where he hopes to finally meet Scotty in person.
During this roadtrip, Angus is faced with his feelings for Tyler and the always present feelings for Scotty, but he understand that he needs to take a decision on who is worth to keep in his life.
I felt like the roadtrip part was dragged along for a bit too long, but I overall enjoyed it! (Even though I don't really like Anah, and I kind of loathed every time she opened her mouth)
I also liked Angus' talk with Archie! I think it was very well fused together with this story, and I liked that Archie could explain to Angus what it feels like to be scared of your own feelings and of yourself, because it gave him a different point of view of his story.
I very much recommend this to everyone who is looking for a cute boy-meets-boy story with some angst thrown in the midst!
TW: Homophobic slurs (not many, but there are still a few lines here and there), mentions of depression and suicide, mentions of attempted suicide and physical violence.
To be Honest.. I really enjoyed this book! It was very different from 'That Feeling When', it was darker toward the end and it touched deeper aspects of being homosexual in a heteronormative world. At the same time, though, it managed to give me the same meet-cute vibes and I basically binged it in one day AH! (Who needs sleep anyway).
Also, shout-out for diversity! Our main this time is half-Indian half-american and I think that's really cool because you don't see that often!
Angus frequents Penbrook boarding school, he's part of the football team, and he's out and proud. Or at least, he thinks so. Even though he's out and his friends and teammates are okay with it, he's still unable to be himself 100% of the time, always feeling everyone's judging eyes in himself and unable to shake that feeling off. He also has a slight (huge) crush on his straight roommate Tyler.
Tyler is what everyone would describe as a geek, he's into science, wears glasses and doesn't have a sporty bone in himself. And he's also very self-conscious about all of the above. The only one he is comfortable to be around and see his true self, is Angus, his best friend.
And then there's Scotty, someone who Angus may very well be in love with, if it weren't for the fact that they've never met, and that Angus is starting to believe he's being catfished. To get to the point of this, Angus decides to embark on a log road trip, along with Tyler and his other r eat friend Anah, with San Francisco as his final destination, where he hopes to finally meet Scotty in person.
During this roadtrip, Angus is faced with his feelings for Tyler and the always present feelings for Scotty, but he understand that he needs to take a decision on who is worth to keep in his life.
I felt like the roadtrip part was dragged along for a bit too long, but I overall enjoyed it! (Even though I don't really like Anah, and I kind of loathed every time she opened her mouth)
I also liked Angus' talk with Archie! I think it was very well fused together with this story, and I liked that Archie could explain to Angus what it feels like to be scared of your own feelings and of yourself, because it gave him a different point of view of his story.
I very much recommend this to everyone who is looking for a cute boy-meets-boy story with some angst thrown in the midst!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2020
I stumbled on to this one and though I rarely read YA anymore, it made me curious. I also read some of the reviews on Amazon and got the twist spoiled for me, so I'd say refrain from that.
It's a very sweet and at times frustrating coming of age book, with all of Angus's feelings and thoughts. We only have his perspective to go from and his perception of situations and people isn't always correct.
His friendship with Tyler is lovely and while I think Anah is a good friend, she is a bit exhausting to read about.
Through the whole book we have the lingering thought of Scotty, the elusive maybe-boyfriend, maybe-catfish and Angus's insecurities around it. Because we've all seen the Catfish show and recognise when things aren't right.
It's a fairly long book, and perhaps the plot should have wrapped up a bit earlier, a bit less Anah and Link drama, and a bit more Angus, Scotty, Tyler.
There's a few hick-ups along the way, such as things that were said then later it came as a surprise when they should already have known.
But other than that it's a sweet book with fun moments and I'd recommend it.
It's a very sweet and at times frustrating coming of age book, with all of Angus's feelings and thoughts. We only have his perspective to go from and his perception of situations and people isn't always correct.
His friendship with Tyler is lovely and while I think Anah is a good friend, she is a bit exhausting to read about.
Through the whole book we have the lingering thought of Scotty, the elusive maybe-boyfriend, maybe-catfish and Angus's insecurities around it. Because we've all seen the Catfish show and recognise when things aren't right.
It's a fairly long book, and perhaps the plot should have wrapped up a bit earlier, a bit less Anah and Link drama, and a bit more Angus, Scotty, Tyler.
There's a few hick-ups along the way, such as things that were said then later it came as a surprise when they should already have known.
But other than that it's a sweet book with fun moments and I'd recommend it.
March 11, 2020
This was a very cute book, I loved both Angus and Tyler, though Anah and Link were... eh. I guessed the twist before I even started reading, but the journey to the reveal was still fun nonetheless. My one issue was that I found Angus' reaction to be a bit... unfair? That seems a bit harsh, because I know there was a big betrayal of trust between them, but on the other hand, Angus knows that Tyler is Scotty, and knows all the deep shit Scotty has told him, and has just experienced Tyler being bullied in person right in front of his face, yet he still blows up and refuses to even hear Tyler out? He doesn't make the connection to why he was so guarded and scared? I know these are emotional teenagers but it was very frustrating to read. It felt like your typical romcom drama and I don't enjoy that. I really just wanted to yell at Angus to stay and listen to what Tyler had to say.
That said, their makeup scene at the end was very sweet and nice, and I loved the idea of shy, quiet Tyler making such a bold, public move. And I still loved all the pining throughout the book, poor Angus really was suffering with his feelings for Tyler, never knowing if he was just a friendly straight guy or if there was something more there, and I loved that burn as I read through it.
That said, their makeup scene at the end was very sweet and nice, and I loved the idea of shy, quiet Tyler making such a bold, public move. And I still loved all the pining throughout the book, poor Angus really was suffering with his feelings for Tyler, never knowing if he was just a friendly straight guy or if there was something more there, and I loved that burn as I read through it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2018
I loved this book! Angus was a wonderful main character, with realistic wishes and dreams. He had good friends and a supportive father. I loved that his boarding school classmates didn't treat him differently because he wasn't rich or because he was gay. Angus was torn between his feelings for his straight roommate Tyler and his online friend Scotty. Tyler's mixed messages kept Angus infatuated and confused, which had the potential to mess up a future he might have with Scotty. A road trip tested friendships and trust, and it eventually brought about a major revelation. I wasn't at all surprised by the twist in the story, but I was still glued to the book until the end.
I loved these teens, and I really enjoyed their story. I'd love to read a sequel to find out where the main characters ended up down the road, but I was definitely happy with the ending provided.
I loved these teens, and I really enjoyed their story. I'd love to read a sequel to find out where the main characters ended up down the road, but I was definitely happy with the ending provided.
November 18, 2018
I guessed the ending right from the start, which was a bit disappointing. I was kind of hoping for the author to prove me wrong, but it didn't happen.
Nevertheless, it was a beautifully written story with characters that felt very real. I adored Agnus, I loved how open and honest he was. I also liked Tyler, he was a sweet character, but
Although predictable, this story drew me in from the very first page and I had a hard time putting it down.
Nevertheless, it was a beautifully written story with characters that felt very real. I adored Agnus, I loved how open and honest he was. I also liked Tyler, he was a sweet character, but
Although predictable, this story drew me in from the very first page and I had a hard time putting it down.
November 8, 2018
This was a cute YA story. I don't think I'd let 4 17yrs old on a cross country adventure however guess when you go to boarding school, maturity is different.
I love how the author portrays the 2 main characters with their different life events and thoughts in regards to their sexuality. We see them struggle separately but also together but even when things blow up and decisions have to be made, love conquers all and finds a way.
I love how the author portrays the 2 main characters with their different life events and thoughts in regards to their sexuality. We see them struggle separately but also together but even when things blow up and decisions have to be made, love conquers all and finds a way.
November 19, 2018
FR- Alors alors.... alors j'avais déjà énooooooormément aimé le tome 1 et j'esperai que ça serai le cas pour celui ci également. J'étais un peu partagée à l'idée de ne pas retrouvée Archie et Yarran mais j'avais également hâte de rencontrer Angus et Scottie.. ou Tyler. Alors j'ai eu un peu peur, parce que je n'aime pas les triangles amoureux et je n'avais pas envie que ce roman en soit un et , désolée pour le spoil, mais ce n'est pas ça. J'ai énormément aimé ce tome également.
Je me suis tout de suite attachée à Angus et j'avais envie de l'accompagner sur les routes des Etats Unis. J'ai beaucoup aimé ce road trip et découvrir les villes qu'ils traversent avec eux.
J'ai également beaucoup aimé Tyler, qui est vraiment attachant et les échanges entre Scottie et Angus étaint super attachants et super mignons.
Alors oui, je me suis demandée plusieurs fois avec qui j'aimerai voir finir Angus, oui j'ai espéré qu'il n'ait pas à choisir et oui, peut être que j'ai deviné la fin, mais ça n'a rien enlevé au plaisir de ma lecture, bien au contraire.
Au delà du road trip, ce roman est un roman sur l'amitié, sur le fait de grandir, de se trouver en tant que personne et de s'accepter. J'ai énormément aimé les sujets qui sont abordés dans ce roman et j'ai beaucoup aimé le fait que même si Angus à l'impression d'être ouvertement out, ce n'est peut etre pas autant le cas qu'il le pense.
J'ai aimé sa relation avec son père et ce que ce dernier fera pour lui à son retour de road trip.
J'ai aimé également que l'histoire continue sur l'année scolaire suivante et bien entenu l'épilogue qui est parfaite à mon goût.
En résumé, l'auteur réussit encore un superbe roman Young Adult comme je les aime, avec tous les éléments nécessaire à un bon roman de ce genre.
Bravo!!
ENG-So well well well... welll I had already loooooooooooooooooooooooooved the volume 1 and I hope that it will be the case for this one also. I was a little mixed up about not finding Archie and Yarran but I was also looking forward to meeting Angus and Scottie .. or Tyler. So I was a little scared, because I do not like love triangles and I did not want this novel to be one and, sorry for the spoil, but it's not that. I really liked this volume too.
I immediately attached to Angus and I wanted to accompany him on the roads of the United States. I really liked this road trip and discover the cities they cross with them.
I also really loved Tyler, who is really endearing and the exchanges between Scottie and Angus were super endearing and super cute.
So yes, I asked myself several times with whom I would like to see finish Angus, yes I hoped he did not have to choose and yes, maybe I guessed the end, but it did not nothing removed to the pleasure of my reading, on the contrary.
Beyond the road trip, this novel is a novel about friendship, growing up, finding oneself as a person and accepting oneself. I really liked the topics that are covered in this novel and I really liked the fact that even if Angus feels like he's out, maybe he does not think so much. .
I liked his relationship with his father and what he will do for him on his return from the road trip.
I also liked that the story continues on the next school year and well understands the epilogue which is perfect for my taste.
In summary, the author still manages a superb novel Young Adult as I love them, with all the elements necessary for a good novel of this kind.
Bravo!!
Je me suis tout de suite attachée à Angus et j'avais envie de l'accompagner sur les routes des Etats Unis. J'ai beaucoup aimé ce road trip et découvrir les villes qu'ils traversent avec eux.
J'ai également beaucoup aimé Tyler, qui est vraiment attachant et les échanges entre Scottie et Angus étaint super attachants et super mignons.
Alors oui, je me suis demandée plusieurs fois avec qui j'aimerai voir finir Angus, oui j'ai espéré qu'il n'ait pas à choisir et oui, peut être que j'ai deviné la fin, mais ça n'a rien enlevé au plaisir de ma lecture, bien au contraire.
Au delà du road trip, ce roman est un roman sur l'amitié, sur le fait de grandir, de se trouver en tant que personne et de s'accepter. J'ai énormément aimé les sujets qui sont abordés dans ce roman et j'ai beaucoup aimé le fait que même si Angus à l'impression d'être ouvertement out, ce n'est peut etre pas autant le cas qu'il le pense.
J'ai aimé sa relation avec son père et ce que ce dernier fera pour lui à son retour de road trip.
J'ai aimé également que l'histoire continue sur l'année scolaire suivante et bien entenu l'épilogue qui est parfaite à mon goût.
En résumé, l'auteur réussit encore un superbe roman Young Adult comme je les aime, avec tous les éléments nécessaire à un bon roman de ce genre.
Bravo!!
ENG-So well well well... welll I had already loooooooooooooooooooooooooved the volume 1 and I hope that it will be the case for this one also. I was a little mixed up about not finding Archie and Yarran but I was also looking forward to meeting Angus and Scottie .. or Tyler. So I was a little scared, because I do not like love triangles and I did not want this novel to be one and, sorry for the spoil, but it's not that. I really liked this volume too.
I immediately attached to Angus and I wanted to accompany him on the roads of the United States. I really liked this road trip and discover the cities they cross with them.
I also really loved Tyler, who is really endearing and the exchanges between Scottie and Angus were super endearing and super cute.
So yes, I asked myself several times with whom I would like to see finish Angus, yes I hoped he did not have to choose and yes, maybe I guessed the end, but it did not nothing removed to the pleasure of my reading, on the contrary.
Beyond the road trip, this novel is a novel about friendship, growing up, finding oneself as a person and accepting oneself. I really liked the topics that are covered in this novel and I really liked the fact that even if Angus feels like he's out, maybe he does not think so much. .
I liked his relationship with his father and what he will do for him on his return from the road trip.
I also liked that the story continues on the next school year and well understands the epilogue which is perfect for my taste.
In summary, the author still manages a superb novel Young Adult as I love them, with all the elements necessary for a good novel of this kind.
Bravo!!
December 18, 2018
Title: To Be Honest: LGBT Road Trip Romance
Author: S. M. James
Publisher: May Books
ISBN: B07GK8H22
Buy Link:
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
# lovehim 2
Angus Reid is pretty sure he's being catfished.
After spending the last half of junior year talking online to the guy of his dreams, Angus wants to meet. In person. So when Scotty brushes it off with excuses of not being ready, red flags go up.
Determined to either catch Scotty out, or take a shot at real love, Angus embarks on a summer road trip with his adorkable roommate, Tyler. But as summer stretches on, and mixed messages fly between them, Angus finds his heart torn.
His potential catfisher?
Or his straight best friend?
And while their road trip takes them across the country, Angus is headed for one destination.
Either a happily ever after ... or a broken heart.
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
All Angus ever wanted was a boyfriend of his own. Now he does have a sort of friend, Scotty, that he met online, but he refuses to meet or give him any personal information. This makes Angus wonder if he is being tricked. Yo make matters more complicated, Angus has a kind of crush on his nerdy, lovable, quirky roommate Tyler. To top the confusion of, Anah, Angus’s best friend is having problems with her on and off cheating boyfriend. And the solution to these problems ends up to be a road trip. Unfortunately, Anah invites her back on boyfriend who doesn’t have a filter when dealing with anyone different causing issues for Angus.
This was a delightful and hilarious story about the difficulties coming to grips with many issues that young adults have. It is sad how some people refuse to accept anything that they consider is different making problems for those individuals. It was wonderful how on the trip Angus experienced that life in other parts of the country were more accepting as he saw his first Pride Day. Seeing people just being themselves was very liberating for Angus. It was sad how his feelings of confusion between Scotty and Tyler made him question himself, but there could be more to the situation than anyone ever expected.
This was a wonderful coming of age story with unique and compelling characters. I personally loved Tyler as the nerdy, delightfully funny individual he was. I loved how he took center stage in Angus’s life without meaning to. His frequent absentmindedness and lovable actions drew people to him.
Author: S. M. James
Publisher: May Books
ISBN: B07GK8H22
Buy Link:
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
# lovehim 2
Angus Reid is pretty sure he's being catfished.
After spending the last half of junior year talking online to the guy of his dreams, Angus wants to meet. In person. So when Scotty brushes it off with excuses of not being ready, red flags go up.
Determined to either catch Scotty out, or take a shot at real love, Angus embarks on a summer road trip with his adorkable roommate, Tyler. But as summer stretches on, and mixed messages fly between them, Angus finds his heart torn.
His potential catfisher?
Or his straight best friend?
And while their road trip takes them across the country, Angus is headed for one destination.
Either a happily ever after ... or a broken heart.
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
All Angus ever wanted was a boyfriend of his own. Now he does have a sort of friend, Scotty, that he met online, but he refuses to meet or give him any personal information. This makes Angus wonder if he is being tricked. Yo make matters more complicated, Angus has a kind of crush on his nerdy, lovable, quirky roommate Tyler. To top the confusion of, Anah, Angus’s best friend is having problems with her on and off cheating boyfriend. And the solution to these problems ends up to be a road trip. Unfortunately, Anah invites her back on boyfriend who doesn’t have a filter when dealing with anyone different causing issues for Angus.
This was a delightful and hilarious story about the difficulties coming to grips with many issues that young adults have. It is sad how some people refuse to accept anything that they consider is different making problems for those individuals. It was wonderful how on the trip Angus experienced that life in other parts of the country were more accepting as he saw his first Pride Day. Seeing people just being themselves was very liberating for Angus. It was sad how his feelings of confusion between Scotty and Tyler made him question himself, but there could be more to the situation than anyone ever expected.
This was a wonderful coming of age story with unique and compelling characters. I personally loved Tyler as the nerdy, delightfully funny individual he was. I loved how he took center stage in Angus’s life without meaning to. His frequent absentmindedness and lovable actions drew people to him.
June 11, 2020
4 stars
I'm coming to like this series (and this author's writing) more and more. This book was already a step up from the first book and felt a lot more rounded, both plot and character wise.
It's actually not a series in the traditional sense but rather stand-alone stories that are (very) loosely linked by one character knowing (or sometimes only knowing about) another character in one of the other books. Here it is Angus, who goes to the same boarding school as Archie from the first book. And at one point in the story he very briefly meets Darien from the next book. :)
Just like the first story, this was cute and sweet but with a definite dose of real-life thrown in. Not everyone acted perfectly all the time, mistakes were made and I really came to dislike some characters (hint: Anah and her douchebag boyfriend). But it was all balanced out by the absolutely fantastic romance part!
While in the first book the romance felt a little cautious and tentative and I was always craving more scenes between the guys, here it was much more fleshed out and you could really see the friendship and the chemistry between the MCs.
I adored both Angus and Tyler! Their interactions were sweet and thoughtful, sometimes awkward but in a totally cute way and often amusing. Especially Tyler in his weird, nerdy, dorky way grabbed my heart. I loved all the things he came up with, the word games, the notes he left at the rest stops, the random places he wanted to visit. If I had met someone like him in my youth we would have got on like a house on fire. :) And Angus was such a good person. I could really relate to his conflicting feelings about Tyler and Scotty, and to his uncertainties about his football team mates.
I have to admit I was worried about the "plot twist" and how the author was going to handle it without making Tyler the bad guy here. But because of something Tyler said in the prequel novella I already had a suspicion about his past. Their confrontation towards the end confirmed it and had me close to tears. A really heartbreaking moment. But it also made me sympathize with him and explained everything in a believable manner. And the ending, oh my gosh, soooo cute and damn near perfect!
I'm deducting a half star, only because while I get that Anah was an important element of the coming-of-age part of the story and all that it entails, I just couldn't enjoy those parts and wanted Angus to call her out on her behavior sooner. Apart from that, this wonderful YA romance had everything I love: loveable characters that you can relate to, great dialogue, lots of funny moments, emotions that feel real without being corny and a great HEA!
I'm coming to like this series (and this author's writing) more and more. This book was already a step up from the first book and felt a lot more rounded, both plot and character wise.
It's actually not a series in the traditional sense but rather stand-alone stories that are (very) loosely linked by one character knowing (or sometimes only knowing about) another character in one of the other books. Here it is Angus, who goes to the same boarding school as Archie from the first book. And at one point in the story he very briefly meets Darien from the next book. :)
Just like the first story, this was cute and sweet but with a definite dose of real-life thrown in. Not everyone acted perfectly all the time, mistakes were made and I really came to dislike some characters (hint: Anah and her douchebag boyfriend). But it was all balanced out by the absolutely fantastic romance part!
While in the first book the romance felt a little cautious and tentative and I was always craving more scenes between the guys, here it was much more fleshed out and you could really see the friendship and the chemistry between the MCs.
I adored both Angus and Tyler! Their interactions were sweet and thoughtful, sometimes awkward but in a totally cute way and often amusing. Especially Tyler in his weird, nerdy, dorky way grabbed my heart. I loved all the things he came up with, the word games, the notes he left at the rest stops, the random places he wanted to visit. If I had met someone like him in my youth we would have got on like a house on fire. :) And Angus was such a good person. I could really relate to his conflicting feelings about Tyler and Scotty, and to his uncertainties about his football team mates.
I have to admit I was worried about the "plot twist" and how the author was going to handle it without making Tyler the bad guy here. But because of something Tyler said in the prequel novella I already had a suspicion about his past. Their confrontation towards the end confirmed it and had me close to tears. A really heartbreaking moment. But it also made me sympathize with him and explained everything in a believable manner. And the ending, oh my gosh, soooo cute and damn near perfect!
I'm deducting a half star, only because while I get that Anah was an important element of the coming-of-age part of the story and all that it entails, I just couldn't enjoy those parts and wanted Angus to call her out on her behavior sooner. Apart from that, this wonderful YA romance had everything I love: loveable characters that you can relate to, great dialogue, lots of funny moments, emotions that feel real without being corny and a great HEA!
November 16, 2018
SM James writes these incredible books with these multifaceted characters that just speak to you from the first moment and don’t let go, even after you’ve turned the very last page. Her stories and the people who fill it up are so sweet, so cluelessly charming, so endearing, so real and so beautifully flawed.
Angus, you are a contradiction of preconceived ideas - a kind, caring, sensitive jock – a boy finding a way to live his life on his terms in the world around him. Angus is ready to experience real love and wants to much to meet his “someone”. He reminds me of a boy who is lonely in the midst of hundreds of people. I adore him.
Tyler, you adorkable beautiful boy-man. A science geek with more cool points than he gives himself credit for and a heart, so much bigger than his body can easily hold. He is kind and considerate and such a loving best friend.
Experiencing their lives and their emotions on this rather epic journey, through the words of SM James… my heart opened, bloomed, hurt, smiled bitter sweetly and eventually gave into the break.
This story is so beautiful and if you really loved yourself (dramatic much?!?), you’d get the book and indulge in this sweetly emotional read. I would not readily admit this to anyone, but between you and I, I cried actual tears at some points.
I could tell you that you should read this book because it affords the reader a look into the hearts and psyche of the turmoil and challenges and, thankfully, the beautiful moments of the lives of two exceptional, young, gay men. And that would be true because lets face it, too many people are ignorant and unaware, and sometimes that ignorance just frustrates, but sometimes, too, that ignorance can hurt. Those are all valid reasons to read and enjoy this book; but here’s a better one: This is a beautiful story of boys, on the verge of being men, about to fly into rest of their lives who are currently trying to live their best lives and navigate the tricky waters of love, honesty and acceptance in high school…
Angus, you are a contradiction of preconceived ideas - a kind, caring, sensitive jock – a boy finding a way to live his life on his terms in the world around him. Angus is ready to experience real love and wants to much to meet his “someone”. He reminds me of a boy who is lonely in the midst of hundreds of people. I adore him.
Tyler, you adorkable beautiful boy-man. A science geek with more cool points than he gives himself credit for and a heart, so much bigger than his body can easily hold. He is kind and considerate and such a loving best friend.
Experiencing their lives and their emotions on this rather epic journey, through the words of SM James… my heart opened, bloomed, hurt, smiled bitter sweetly and eventually gave into the break.
This story is so beautiful and if you really loved yourself (dramatic much?!?), you’d get the book and indulge in this sweetly emotional read. I would not readily admit this to anyone, but between you and I, I cried actual tears at some points.
I could tell you that you should read this book because it affords the reader a look into the hearts and psyche of the turmoil and challenges and, thankfully, the beautiful moments of the lives of two exceptional, young, gay men. And that would be true because lets face it, too many people are ignorant and unaware, and sometimes that ignorance just frustrates, but sometimes, too, that ignorance can hurt. Those are all valid reasons to read and enjoy this book; but here’s a better one: This is a beautiful story of boys, on the verge of being men, about to fly into rest of their lives who are currently trying to live their best lives and navigate the tricky waters of love, honesty and acceptance in high school…
November 12, 2018
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Part coming of age drama and part YA romance, this is the story of Angus as he embarks on a cross country roadtrip to meet his online boyfriend. During the journey, Angus learns a great deal about himself, his friends and their relationships.
This is a slow, introspective story. A scholarship kid at an expensive private school and a gay football player in a team of straight guys, Angus is used to being an outsider and it is only when Tyler and Anah push him that he starts to reflect on the compromises he makes to belong.
The online conversations between Angus and Scotty are sweet but Scotty’s secrecy constantly ruins any potential for real intimacy between them. The friendship between Angus and Tyler left me equally uneasy. I guessed the plot twist in their relationship early on but like Angus, I was constantly torn between Tyler’s sensitive and almost romantic gestures and his moments of almost defensive heterosexuality. I like that Angus is strong enough to hold out for what he needs from a relationship but his caution doesn’t make for great romance. Ultimately, I found it was difficult to fully engage with the romance element of the story. I didn’t trust Scotty or Tyler and there was actually a point in the book when I just wanted Angus to enjoy an anonymous hookup.
Interspersed between Angus’ introspective moments are all the typical American roadtrip sightseeing activities with his friends. Typical, ordinary - and possibly overdone, I didn’t love the roadtrip aspect of this story. I found the Anah and Link storyline annoying - but irritating roadtrip companions are one of the more realistic parts of the story.
Part coming of age drama and part YA romance, this is the story of Angus as he embarks on a cross country roadtrip to meet his online boyfriend. During the journey, Angus learns a great deal about himself, his friends and their relationships.
This is a slow, introspective story. A scholarship kid at an expensive private school and a gay football player in a team of straight guys, Angus is used to being an outsider and it is only when Tyler and Anah push him that he starts to reflect on the compromises he makes to belong.
The online conversations between Angus and Scotty are sweet but Scotty’s secrecy constantly ruins any potential for real intimacy between them. The friendship between Angus and Tyler left me equally uneasy. I guessed the plot twist in their relationship early on but like Angus, I was constantly torn between Tyler’s sensitive and almost romantic gestures and his moments of almost defensive heterosexuality. I like that Angus is strong enough to hold out for what he needs from a relationship but his caution doesn’t make for great romance. Ultimately, I found it was difficult to fully engage with the romance element of the story. I didn’t trust Scotty or Tyler and there was actually a point in the book when I just wanted Angus to enjoy an anonymous hookup.
Interspersed between Angus’ introspective moments are all the typical American roadtrip sightseeing activities with his friends. Typical, ordinary - and possibly overdone, I didn’t love the roadtrip aspect of this story. I found the Anah and Link storyline annoying - but irritating roadtrip companions are one of the more realistic parts of the story.
November 9, 2018
Predictable but sweet
I’ve not read anything by this author before, but I was given the chance to read a copy for free before the book was published and as someone who likes YA and M/M books this seemed like a great book for me.
It started off really well and I was hooked instantly, I loved the way the author broke the chapters up with the emails between Gus and Scotty.
Unfortunately it went a bit down hill for me during the road trip - Anah really irritated me, basically the whole way through the book and I was glad when she wasn’t around.
I think it was also during the road trip where I finally realised the truth of the whole story and was a tad disappointed with it if I’m honest. It all felt a bit predictable.
I was then left with the rest of the story to get through and hope the outcome was somewhat worth it.
I have to say it wasn’t a bad ending, I’m rather glad it wasn’t an instant fix but it also wasn’t a dramatic stretched out fix either and I think it’s sometimes hard to get the right balance.
I liked getting to know Scotty through the emails and it was nice to get to know Angus but I think my huge bug bear was not getting anything (bar the last chapter) from Tyler’s point of view, duel points of view are a huge draw for me in a book and I’m unsure if you can really connect with both the characters when it’s just told from one persons point of view.
I enjoyed the book overall though and I’m definitely interested in looking into the other LGBTQ books this author has written.
I’ve not read anything by this author before, but I was given the chance to read a copy for free before the book was published and as someone who likes YA and M/M books this seemed like a great book for me.
It started off really well and I was hooked instantly, I loved the way the author broke the chapters up with the emails between Gus and Scotty.
Unfortunately it went a bit down hill for me during the road trip - Anah really irritated me, basically the whole way through the book and I was glad when she wasn’t around.
I think it was also during the road trip where I finally realised the truth of the whole story and was a tad disappointed with it if I’m honest. It all felt a bit predictable.
I was then left with the rest of the story to get through and hope the outcome was somewhat worth it.
I have to say it wasn’t a bad ending, I’m rather glad it wasn’t an instant fix but it also wasn’t a dramatic stretched out fix either and I think it’s sometimes hard to get the right balance.
I liked getting to know Scotty through the emails and it was nice to get to know Angus but I think my huge bug bear was not getting anything (bar the last chapter) from Tyler’s point of view, duel points of view are a huge draw for me in a book and I’m unsure if you can really connect with both the characters when it’s just told from one persons point of view.
I enjoyed the book overall though and I’m definitely interested in looking into the other LGBTQ books this author has written.
February 7, 2019
The imagery the author used by quoting first person chat messages to tell the characters story was captivating which made story very unique, and interesting. To Be Honest by SM James is a coming of age story of a gay teenage boy that starts off with an attention getting conversation of an online chat session between two people far apart by distance but close together spiritually by sharing similar situational life experiences. The author’s first person portrayal of the main character Angus in opening chapter had me entertained and intrigued reading at a break neck pace to find out what happens next! This book has well written characters with very believable human needs and flaws. The storyline tackles very important coming of age topics which include first crush, first love, teenage angst, in both gay and straight relationships, as well as how to navigate online dating relationships. Through clever and effective imagery the writer brings the reader into a story that has Angus wondering if his online chat “boyfriend” is real of just catfishing him. This book is a great read for anyone who has had to deal with wondering if the person on the other end of the text, chat, email, or dating Ap is really who they say they are. I especially recommend it for teenagers who are just starting to cross the divide between childhood and adulthood, because it will help them realize that gay or straight, everyone is just looking to be loved and valued for who they are.
November 7, 2018
Angus Reid is not your typical high school jock. Yes he plays football, but his out and proud. Everyone at his private bording school adores him, but Angus hasn't found love. Not exactly. This is an epic cross county journey of finding love & what better way to do that then with the people that mean everything. There will be drama, there will be passion, but will his online friend be the man he needs or is Angus indeed being catfished.
The thing I loved most about this book was the writing, S.M James portrays Angus in such a way he's relatable to everyone. S.M James has written an exceptional PG romance that tackles not only things that could happen to anyone regarding of sexual preference but also the stigma that comes with having a sexual preference thats deemed outside the norm. The acceptance, love and loyalty S.M James has captured of his main characters friends and football team is heart warming. I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only
The thing I loved most about this book was the writing, S.M James portrays Angus in such a way he's relatable to everyone. S.M James has written an exceptional PG romance that tackles not only things that could happen to anyone regarding of sexual preference but also the stigma that comes with having a sexual preference thats deemed outside the norm. The acceptance, love and loyalty S.M James has captured of his main characters friends and football team is heart warming. I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only
November 7, 2018
I received this book for free through Voracious Readers Only.
To Be Honest is a lighthearted YA romance with lots of teen drama thrown in.
Angus Reid goes on a road trip with his roommate and crush Tyler, best friend Anah, and her boyfriend Link. The goal is to visit San Francisco along the way to confront Scotty, Angus' online friend and other crush, who has been adamant he is not ready to meet irl.
I really enjoy road trip stories, and this one was great! I just loved the characters and all the different places they went.
Even though you can see the big plot twist coming from a mile away it doesn't detract from the story at all. It's well written and fast paced, and the characters and their relationships are very real. I could not stop reading.
To Be Honest is a lighthearted YA romance with lots of teen drama thrown in.
Angus Reid goes on a road trip with his roommate and crush Tyler, best friend Anah, and her boyfriend Link. The goal is to visit San Francisco along the way to confront Scotty, Angus' online friend and other crush, who has been adamant he is not ready to meet irl.
I really enjoy road trip stories, and this one was great! I just loved the characters and all the different places they went.
Even though you can see the big plot twist coming from a mile away it doesn't detract from the story at all. It's well written and fast paced, and the characters and their relationships are very real. I could not stop reading.
November 12, 2018
Although I haven't read a YA book in a while, To Be Honest took me by surprise. It's a great coming of age story with funny and instantly relatable characters and a great road trip thrown in. Angus has been chatting online to Scotty from the Bay Area and he wants to meet because he feels a connection to the man. All the while, he's fighting his attraction to his roommate, Tyler, who agrees to go on the road trip with him. The characters, especially Angus, are really sweet and I loved getting to know them. And although the story is a bit predictable, the relationship that develops between the out and proud football player, Angus, and the shy, sweet nerd, Tyler is perfect. A wonderful book!
November 28, 2018
Angus and Tyler are roommates, friends, and co-road-trippers. Their friend Anah and her boyfriend round out the gang. Reason for road trip-to meet Angus’ online crush, Scotty, who won’t tell Angus who he is.
Although it’s obvious throughout, its sweet what Angus notices about Tyler, how they’re drawn together. The heavy parts are unfortunately true to life, and hopefully, the tragedy of homophobia disappears with each passing year in our world, but not likely that fast.
Anah is a bit immature, and I wish they were students in university because it would sound less far fetched that they go on this trip. I do get why this age was chosen, so I can put it down to author’s inclination.
Interesting book, lots of fun parts mixed in with high school drama and a dose of reality.
KU
Although it’s obvious throughout, its sweet what Angus notices about Tyler, how they’re drawn together. The heavy parts are unfortunately true to life, and hopefully, the tragedy of homophobia disappears with each passing year in our world, but not likely that fast.
Anah is a bit immature, and I wish they were students in university because it would sound less far fetched that they go on this trip. I do get why this age was chosen, so I can put it down to author’s inclination.
Interesting book, lots of fun parts mixed in with high school drama and a dose of reality.
KU
November 15, 2018
"To be Honest" is the second book in the #lovehim series. It can be read as standalone, however it has a wonderfull short prequel ("No Big Deal") that introduces the characters very nicely and gives a lot of inside about the feelings and motivations behind Angus and Tyler, i would absolutely suggest everyone to read beforehand.
The title of this book is absolutely fitting, its about being honest and finding one self, and to honestly open up to others and accepting others and oneself just the way you/they are.
Its a very enjoyable read, that left me guessing about the outcome till the end which i have the feeling is really rare nowadays xD
The title of this book is absolutely fitting, its about being honest and finding one self, and to honestly open up to others and accepting others and oneself just the way you/they are.
Its a very enjoyable read, that left me guessing about the outcome till the end which i have the feeling is really rare nowadays xD
December 19, 2018
Tyler and Angus are adorable together. I love their connection... the interactions between them speaks of intimacy and love, even when just friends. The journey they take, both physically and emotionally, is fun, emotional and absolutely perfect. It's a story of embracing your chance at love, learning to love and doing what it takes to keep your love no matter what others may think.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
December 19, 2018
Tyler and Angus are adorable together. I love their connection... the interactions between them speaks of intimacy and love, even when just friends. The journey they take, both physically and emotionally, is fun, emotional and absolutely perfect. It's a story of embracing your chance at love, learning to love and doing what it takes to keep your love no matter what others may think.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
November 16, 2018
... This is An Awesome Read. If you enjoyed a certain other coming of age gay romance that was in theater earlier this year, you'll enjoy this book as well. Even if you haven't been exposed to that other story, give this one a try if you like romance and/ or coming of age and/ or road trip stories - this is a solid entry into all of the above categories, that happens to involve two guys at a prep school falling for each other. Very much enjoyed this book, excellent vacation/ beach read (which is when I read it, on a cruise). Very much looking forward to the rest of this series.
December 5, 2019
An adorable story I didn't want to put down because it was cute but also painfully frustrating.
The story is super cute and I wish the prequel would have been part of the book especially since they make references to events in it throughout the book.
Angus is also painfully unaware of what is going on around him to the point where it feels like you want to yell at the cheesie horror movie characters about how oblivious they're being, but overall it is a cute book I didn't want to stop reading.
The story is super cute and I wish the prequel would have been part of the book especially since they make references to events in it throughout the book.
Angus is also painfully unaware of what is going on around him to the point where it feels like you want to yell at the cheesie horror movie characters about how oblivious they're being, but overall it is a cute book I didn't want to stop reading.
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