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First Spouse of the United States
alternate cover edition of ASIN B07PNS1FD6
Star Athlete & War Hero Battles Societal Boundaries And Washington Elite
The story parallels today’s political and social unrest. Politically and socially controversial and pragmatic, witness an unlikely duo, Rocky and Nick, in their quest for the White House. Watch both Democrats and Republicans facilitated by a complicit media, maneuver to eat their own. The first chapter introduces Marine Corps fighter pilot Capt. Ricardo Chambers ‘Rocky’ receiving the Medal of Honor in the White House East Room. Most would say this is an achievement, not unlike conquering Mount Everest. ‘Rocky’ is the man most men would like to be. He is the epitome of what many women would want in a man. But things are not what they appear to be. The First Lady and President callously exploit and discard our hero.Flashback to Rocky’s idyllic high school years as his life takes a sudden turn, a forbidden turn. Living an inauthentic and tumultuous life, carefully sampling more of what could unmask and destroy. Heroism and prowess do not clear a path for happy-ever-after. It only muddies the water, providing cover for adversaries lying in wait, ready to spring to the surface and decimate what they covet and hate.
Star Athlete & War Hero Battles Societal Boundaries And Washington Elite
The story parallels today’s political and social unrest. Politically and socially controversial and pragmatic, witness an unlikely duo, Rocky and Nick, in their quest for the White House. Watch both Democrats and Republicans facilitated by a complicit media, maneuver to eat their own. The first chapter introduces Marine Corps fighter pilot Capt. Ricardo Chambers ‘Rocky’ receiving the Medal of Honor in the White House East Room. Most would say this is an achievement, not unlike conquering Mount Everest. ‘Rocky’ is the man most men would like to be. He is the epitome of what many women would want in a man. But things are not what they appear to be. The First Lady and President callously exploit and discard our hero.Flashback to Rocky’s idyllic high school years as his life takes a sudden turn, a forbidden turn. Living an inauthentic and tumultuous life, carefully sampling more of what could unmask and destroy. Heroism and prowess do not clear a path for happy-ever-after. It only muddies the water, providing cover for adversaries lying in wait, ready to spring to the surface and decimate what they covet and hate.
247 pages, ebook
First published March 14, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Did Not Finish
October 26, 2022Why are we switching from 3rd person to 1st person narration in the same paragraph?
And where is some variation in the sentence pattern?
Also, "magnificent medallion"? Lol I'm certain the author is playing a prank on the readers.
I have questions but I don't want answers. DNF, I'm getting my dollar back.
And where is some variation in the sentence pattern?
Also, "magnificent medallion"? Lol I'm certain the author is playing a prank on the readers.
I have questions but I don't want answers. DNF, I'm getting my dollar back.
February 8, 2025
My Review and Thoughts:
This is a complex, woven gem of a spiraling story that digs deep into your thoughts as each page turns. I wasn’t expecting much of this book to be honest because this is normally not my type of reading, but I must say I was changed instantly. This book grew on me and created a thought provoking intensity inside my mind as I consumed this book.
This is a wonderful mix of political intrigue. Very entertaining and most of all a well thought out storyline. Plays with your mind and makes you think, specially into today’s political craziness in America. This book builds on the suspense. What makes this a perfect read is that it has the hero’s and the bad guys all coming together to entertain and build a sound, solid reality for the imagination.
Your main character Rocky is written perfection as a character. He truly becomes apart of you and you can’t help but wondering what’s going to happen next with this unique, awesome created character. Rocky will be someone I will remember in my book loving world.
I loved the story. I felt the story. I became apart of the story. I was not at all distracted while reading It. I never felt bored or wanted to rush through it. I in all honesty dug this book and wanted to know detail after detail.
There were times where I had no inkling of the time, because I was so engrossed in the plot. I think this author can without a doubt write a solid mixture of writing that is perfected for the reader.
I felt this book created a believable reality, characters and an unfolding plot. The book was created with a thoughtful clarity of details. The plot maintained itself and was able to hold the reader from the first line until the ending. I enjoyed each character, for they have been fleshed out in vivid detail that the author maintained throughout its unfolding story.
Would I Return to: I will return to this author if they ever write more books? I feel this author has away with words and away with creating those words into a story form that grabs the readers imagination.
Would I Recommend: For those who love military political fiction. Easily one of those books that can be read quickly and be thoroughly entertained by.
My Rating: 4 out of 5
Four Final Words: Intense. Thoughtfully written. Spellbound.
This is a complex, woven gem of a spiraling story that digs deep into your thoughts as each page turns. I wasn’t expecting much of this book to be honest because this is normally not my type of reading, but I must say I was changed instantly. This book grew on me and created a thought provoking intensity inside my mind as I consumed this book.
This is a wonderful mix of political intrigue. Very entertaining and most of all a well thought out storyline. Plays with your mind and makes you think, specially into today’s political craziness in America. This book builds on the suspense. What makes this a perfect read is that it has the hero’s and the bad guys all coming together to entertain and build a sound, solid reality for the imagination.
Your main character Rocky is written perfection as a character. He truly becomes apart of you and you can’t help but wondering what’s going to happen next with this unique, awesome created character. Rocky will be someone I will remember in my book loving world.
I loved the story. I felt the story. I became apart of the story. I was not at all distracted while reading It. I never felt bored or wanted to rush through it. I in all honesty dug this book and wanted to know detail after detail.
There were times where I had no inkling of the time, because I was so engrossed in the plot. I think this author can without a doubt write a solid mixture of writing that is perfected for the reader.
I felt this book created a believable reality, characters and an unfolding plot. The book was created with a thoughtful clarity of details. The plot maintained itself and was able to hold the reader from the first line until the ending. I enjoyed each character, for they have been fleshed out in vivid detail that the author maintained throughout its unfolding story.
Would I Return to: I will return to this author if they ever write more books? I feel this author has away with words and away with creating those words into a story form that grabs the readers imagination.
Would I Recommend: For those who love military political fiction. Easily one of those books that can be read quickly and be thoroughly entertained by.
My Rating: 4 out of 5
Four Final Words: Intense. Thoughtfully written. Spellbound.
January 16, 2022
3.5 - Stars Overall- I so wanted to be able to give more.
5.0 - Stars as a riveting read.
Warning, this novel ends with a cliff-hanger. A sequel has been promised “soon”.
According to his biography, J.R. Strayve, Jr. “was born into a nomadic military family” and served as a member of the United States Marine Corps. His focus as an author seems to have been on alternative historical fiction.
First Spouse of the United States, his first novel, was published in 2019. It has been highly controversial from the time of its publication.
I really wanted to like this book, and, truth be told, I couldn’t put it down because it’s such a riveting read.
BUT, while I know there are corrupt, unscrupulous, manipulative politicians and corporate executives, fortunately they are the exception to the rule. And in this novel it seems almost every featured character is gay, bi, or trans (some closeted, some very open), and the world really isn’t composed only of such men.
Beginning with an unfortunately far too frequent real life tragedy, the story becomes more and more complex, and harder and harder to accept as likely.
Still, Strayve’s main characters, Marine Corps Captain and later industry titan, Ricardo Chambers (Rocky); Republican politician, Nicholas Jeffries (Nick); and Nick’s wife, Sheila; as well as many of Strayve’s secondary characters such as Rocky’s secret high school lover, Umberto Castañeda; Nick’s campaign manager, Gene; respective parents, grandparents, and children; and a former President and First Lady, all add to the evolving narrative.
Strayve’s message - really a plea - for acceptance, diversity, and unity is a critical one at this time in our nation’s history. I hope, as a country, we never have to live through events like those described here to reach that desired outcome.
The sequel to First Spouse of the United States that was promised in 2019, has yet to be published. We can only hope that it’s being written at this very moment!
5.0 - Stars as a riveting read.
Warning, this novel ends with a cliff-hanger. A sequel has been promised “soon”.
According to his biography, J.R. Strayve, Jr. “was born into a nomadic military family” and served as a member of the United States Marine Corps. His focus as an author seems to have been on alternative historical fiction.
First Spouse of the United States, his first novel, was published in 2019. It has been highly controversial from the time of its publication.
I really wanted to like this book, and, truth be told, I couldn’t put it down because it’s such a riveting read.
BUT, while I know there are corrupt, unscrupulous, manipulative politicians and corporate executives, fortunately they are the exception to the rule. And in this novel it seems almost every featured character is gay, bi, or trans (some closeted, some very open), and the world really isn’t composed only of such men.
Beginning with an unfortunately far too frequent real life tragedy, the story becomes more and more complex, and harder and harder to accept as likely.
Still, Strayve’s main characters, Marine Corps Captain and later industry titan, Ricardo Chambers (Rocky); Republican politician, Nicholas Jeffries (Nick); and Nick’s wife, Sheila; as well as many of Strayve’s secondary characters such as Rocky’s secret high school lover, Umberto Castañeda; Nick’s campaign manager, Gene; respective parents, grandparents, and children; and a former President and First Lady, all add to the evolving narrative.
Strayve’s message - really a plea - for acceptance, diversity, and unity is a critical one at this time in our nation’s history. I hope, as a country, we never have to live through events like those described here to reach that desired outcome.
The sequel to First Spouse of the United States that was promised in 2019, has yet to be published. We can only hope that it’s being written at this very moment!
March 30, 2019
I am glad I stuck with this novel. After an overly melodramatic first few chapters the story settles down into a tale that however implausible and at times contrived is escapist fun. Strayer had mixed family drama with political intrigue, male to male romance with gay rights, military service with corporate governance. The main characters need to be fleshed out more or at least developed beyond stock characters into people readers can identify with and care about because they are fully realized. I hope Strayer follows up with a sequel to First Spouse so we can continue to follow this story. Advice to Strayer: in future editions shorten the title to First Spouse and have someone write a short (150-word) promotional blurb - the current one is too long and confusing. Also First Spouse would make a good mini series for the LOGO tv channel or Dekkoo.
March 20, 2020
Current politics and controversy tied in with family drama
This is the first book I've read by Strayer, and it was amazing! I really hope he writes a second book to this one, and I can't wait to read more of his work. Rocky, the main character, has a military career, but is also gay in the 1980s. He has a girlfriend to cover his true feelings and hide from the world. I think people of all backgrounds can relate to him. Most people try and fit in in different ways, like wearing a certain type of clothing or being mean to the kid everyone else is mean to. But deep down, we are who we are, and we don't need to try and fit in. Strayve really digs in to all the emotions Rocky experienced throughout his life. Politics are also an important factor in this story. It was truly a page-turner, and I would highly recommend it.
This is the first book I've read by Strayer, and it was amazing! I really hope he writes a second book to this one, and I can't wait to read more of his work. Rocky, the main character, has a military career, but is also gay in the 1980s. He has a girlfriend to cover his true feelings and hide from the world. I think people of all backgrounds can relate to him. Most people try and fit in in different ways, like wearing a certain type of clothing or being mean to the kid everyone else is mean to. But deep down, we are who we are, and we don't need to try and fit in. Strayve really digs in to all the emotions Rocky experienced throughout his life. Politics are also an important factor in this story. It was truly a page-turner, and I would highly recommend it.
April 19, 2022
First book of a series which features Rocky Chambers-Jeffries. This part of the story follows the Marine captain from his high school football days, through the Naval Academy, Marine flight school and war duty, NATO service and political campaigns. Underlord is the silver spoon of being the heir to a Boston-based multinational company.
Covering three-plus decades, Strayve reveals a great deal of the workings of both Rocky and his husband Nick. Snapshots, like YouTube videos, expound the timeline. Family figures pop in and out of the narrative, coloring the understanding of his character.
However, the end of the book is a cliffhanger. And I hate this technique to sell the next story, particularly one as alarming as has been used.
Covering three-plus decades, Strayve reveals a great deal of the workings of both Rocky and his husband Nick. Snapshots, like YouTube videos, expound the timeline. Family figures pop in and out of the narrative, coloring the understanding of his character.
However, the end of the book is a cliffhanger. And I hate this technique to sell the next story, particularly one as alarming as has been used.
March 24, 2022
I feel like it's not fair for me to give it 3 stars just because I didn't like the ending since I was enjoying so much the book until it. I love how this is portrayed as an narrative and at the same time feels as a biography. I don't understand enough of American politics and military to say how much of it is relatable, but besides the unnecessary ending I struggled with the dialogues. At first I thought that it was ok, since it was the 80's and they're on very formal circumstances, but as the story goes I didn't feel any warmth given by the couple neither to each other or to their family.
This has a lot of ups and downs but overall a pretty good book with a impressive plot.
This has a lot of ups and downs but overall a pretty good book with a impressive plot.
August 3, 2022
I was and am a huge fan of Pete Buttigieg and hoped that this might be a serious look at the consequences and possibilities presented by having a gay president. Unlike Pete, the protagonist is far less than inspiring and seems to think that being gay will make diversity a lock. Much of it reads like a gay bodice ripper with our “hero” finding sex everywhere including (spoiler) with the President woh give him a medal of honor and a bit more. The plot inane and the dialogue is on a Donald Trump level. I wish I had both my money and time back. Pete would be appalled.
August 25, 2022
this is one complex and challenging book to read. the book is a challenge to read, not only, for the challenging journey that both Rocky and Nick have to travel to get to their quest of the White House. covering many years of their journey but for the worrying concerns it raises in the readers head of what people do to stay in power and how people along the journey of power get corrupted and hurt. Along the way you are introduced to not so savory characters and some lovely supportive one.
it is worth reading even with the heartbreaking cliff hanger at the end....
it is worth reading even with the heartbreaking cliff hanger at the end....
October 16, 2024
The end of this novel is like watching a live performance or premier movie which is only being held once and 10 minutes before the end, the power to the country gets cut?!
We have come through high school, the marines and business CEO with Rocky. Then he met and fell in love with Nick, invested in their future, just to have our feet kicked out from under us.
What a gripping page turner and a glimpse into a political future we normal people see as incorporating each individual in a country of peace and love.
I received a copy and this is my honest and voluntary review.
We have come through high school, the marines and business CEO with Rocky. Then he met and fell in love with Nick, invested in their future, just to have our feet kicked out from under us.
What a gripping page turner and a glimpse into a political future we normal people see as incorporating each individual in a country of peace and love.
I received a copy and this is my honest and voluntary review.
March 13, 2024
I was simply gobsmacked after finishing the book! It just sent me reeling! I wasn’t expecting how the story ended! It was an awesome reading for me!!!! I devoured the story in about 5 sittings (Had work to do, etc and couldn’t wait to get back to the story). I am beyond thrilled that there’s a 2nd book out and I’m looking forward to reading the rest and find out what happened!!!! It’s very worthy to be made into a TV Miniseries!!!! More than 5 stars reading from me!
June 1, 2024
Normally it would have been a DNF. But I had time on our trip back from vacation. The book itself is simply without any emotion. There are a few relationships throughout the book but there's no feeling. Like not at all. I didn't feel any kind of chemistry or passion. And the plot was all over the place. Also wtf is the cliffhanger? There's the next book but I can't be bothered at all to read it. Also the trip home is over.
October 23, 2020
A well written and highly relevant novel about same-sex marriage in the highest places of government. Strayve offers a plausible utopia of diversity, unity, and overcoming of prejudice in our society.
February 23, 2022
I enjoyed this story even though I am not into American politics I found Rocky's story really interesting and his achievements were amazing with lots of amazing highs and a heartbreaking lows. I was disappointed that there wasn't a cliffhanger warning for the book but overall enjoyed it.
September 18, 2022
FSOTUS
This book was an incredible read. It got a little preachy towards the end but definitely portrays our country as it today. But the main thing I need to know is when the sequel is going to come out. I can’t be the only one who needs to know the future of the White House.
This book was an incredible read. It got a little preachy towards the end but definitely portrays our country as it today. But the main thing I need to know is when the sequel is going to come out. I can’t be the only one who needs to know the future of the White House.
December 24, 2021
too predictable
Story could have had more substance. Felt like it was written by someone who had no idea who the characters were
Story could have had more substance. Felt like it was written by someone who had no idea who the characters were
February 22, 2022
Cheesy
It is not a really credible plot; much too convenient and pretty emotionless. Feels more like a commissioned work to propagate the LGBT.... agenda.
It is not a really credible plot; much too convenient and pretty emotionless. Feels more like a commissioned work to propagate the LGBT.... agenda.
April 15, 2022
Really liked it, until the cliffhanger ending...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2022
A Good Story
I enjoyed reading this this story. I loved the characters, they were wonderful. The story had a great story line; and it was well written.
I enjoyed reading this this story. I loved the characters, they were wonderful. The story had a great story line; and it was well written.
December 28, 2022
OMG
What an amazing book. This is the first book I 've read by this author. Please tell me there is more to this story!
What an amazing book. This is the first book I 've read by this author. Please tell me there is more to this story!
January 26, 2023
When you judge a book by its cover, sometimes you get something you wouldn't normally choose
January 1, 2023
This is the first book I’ve read by J.R. Strayed jr. Nicely written story. Loved how the author took us through the characters lives, from kids to adulthood. I hope there is a second book.
April 3, 2020
This was a fun and complex story about love and romance in the 1980s to present time. It follows a gay couple through Washington as their careers and their relationship with each other and with others develop. I won't ruin the ending, but it's definitely surprising and worth it. This is a great book to read over cocktails on a beach vacation.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews