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Mes colocs, San Francisco et moi (Romance Passion)
Patrick Mahoney a un seul objectif en tête : partir de Fresno, sa ville natale, et trouver la liberté dans les rues arc-en-ciel et pleines de promesses de San Francisco. En entrant à l'université, il est persuadé qu'il aura enfin la chance d'être lui-même, loin du regard méprisant de sa ville natale conservatrice.
Josh Dirda n'a jamais voulu s'attacher, préférant la non implication émotionnelle des plans d'un soir. Mais lorsque Patrick emménage dans l'appartement qu’il partage avec trois amis, Josh est attiré par ses réparties et sa façon de penser, différente et créative. Très vite, il s’auto-proclame guide touristique personnel de Patrick à qui il fait découvrir la ville qu’il aime tant.
Mais après un rapprochement alcoolisé lors de la soirée d’Halloween, Patrick et Josh doivent doivent faire face à leurs véritables sentiments et décider s'ils peuvent abandonner les fantômes de leur passé.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2018
2 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Natasha Washington
3 books14 followersNatasha Washington lives in Philadelphia, where she writes queer love stories in both YA (as Sonia Belasco) and romance. She has spent much of her professional life working with young people as a mentor, tutor, or therapist. When not writing, she is likely cooking, taking long, meandering walks, or listening to dance music or 90s hip-hop.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 18, 2018
"You saved me by giving me San Francisco."
Holy crap, talk about a walk down memory lane. I may have been raised in rural Tennessee, but I definitely 'grew up' during my 12 years living in San Francisco, finally becoming the version of myself that I always wanted to be. Needed to be.
Right from the beginning, when Patrick first arrived in the Castro and Josh gave him a tour of the City, this story was so full of nostalgia for me. It wasn't just the places the book mentioned that felt so real, it was the entire vibe that's entirely unique to SF. But I digress.
I liked both Patrick and Josh immediately, with Patrick being an extremely green, 18 y.o. virgin from the Central Valley, and Josh being from the City, with nothing remotely virginal about him anymore.
I enjoyed the humor and mild banter of the story, too. Once Patrick finally found his feet in his new life, he gave as good as he got.
The story wasn't all light-hearted laughter, though. Even though I didn't experience any of the bullying and abuse that Patrick did, I for sure connected with how lonely and isolated he felt growing up, feeling so different from his family and schoolmates.
I loved how Patrick felt that intangible weight being lifted from my shoulders when he first moved to SF. Like he was finally free and anything, ANYTHING was possible. Like he could finally be the real him, no holds barred. Trust, I felt the same way myself.
The story was about the MC's finding themselves, as who they were both alone and together as a couple, learning to trust one another enough to open up about their fears and past hurts, then figuring out how to move forward.
I enjoyed the first two-thirds of the story immensely; however, when the (easily-avoidable and possibly unnecessary) drama began to ramp up, the tone changed a bit and my interest began to wane slightly. The story was still good, but it felt as though it had lost some of the previous uniqueness that I'd been devouring.
The angst was fairly mild, but I couldn't really tell if it had been fully dealt with. Was Patrick still pissed about Ramon? Or had he just swept that incident under the rug and pretended not to see the lumpy carpet? I wasn't entirely sure.
Also, I got Josh's hang-up and past hurt once it was revealed, but didn't entirely see (or believe?) how that directly led him to his pre-Patrick behavior. I just questioned the reasoning, I suppose.
In regards to steam, there were a few sex scenes, but the story contained more steamy lead-ups than actual sex.
Other than my interest 'petering off' (shut up, it's a totally valid term, heh) as the story began to wrap up, my main issue with the story was the lack of a resolution, as the epilogue was a whole 6 whopping DAYS down the road, at New Year's Eve of the same year, and was pure fluff.
Hello!!! Josh was graduating college in 5 short months, while Patrick was only a freshman. Was Josh now planning to stay in SF and look for acting/musical work locally, or would he have to move to NYC or LA for a job?
It. Is. Never. Discussed.
Not ONCE. Ugh!
The guys did seem to want to be together 'forever', but the book concluded without a single talk about how that might be possible, so I read the final page feeling unfulfilled as to their fate.
I'd rate this story at around 3.5 stars and recommend it to anyone with either a connection to or interest in the amazing city known as San Francisco.
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August 24, 2018
I was sent this book as an advanced copy by A Novel Take for reviewing purposes, but all opinions are my own.
This book is about Patrick, a gay boy from conservative Fresno, who moves to start college in the city of his dreams, San Francisco, where he hopes to leave all the bullying behind him. His apartment search lands him a room in a shared flat with other slightly older students, among which is Josh, a Jewish pansexual boy who was born and raised in San Francisco.
Right away what I loved from the first few chapters was Patrick’s reaction to how open and chill everyone was about Josh’s sexuality and about Patrick’s too. The contrast between their mentalities and the mentality of the people Patrick grew up with was both astounding and relatable, and while we’re talking about relatableness, let me tell you that the first half of the novel spoke to my soul because so many of Patrick’s experiences and feelings are something I went through in my own move. Also his feelings about leaving his mom and his family and being completely on his own were On Point and I might have cried in the first 10%.
Like with most romances, this is narrated by both Patrick and Josh and I enjoyed both POVs in different ways, and I think both characters were very well written and well researched. I can’t speak for Josh’s Jewish representation but I think it was well woven into his character and a big part of who he is.
I have something to say about the pansexual rep and it’s that I feel like some people might not love it, but I personally did. What Josh does until meeting Patrick (sleeping with a lot of people and never being in a long relationship or a relationship at all) is not because of his sexuality at all and that's made very clear in the book. Edit: something I originally forgot to write about is the fact that Josh is shown at the beginning (before the romance with Patrick) in scenes where he's flirting and kissing girls too. It wouldn't be remarkable if it wasn't for the fact that a lot of m/m romances where one of the characters is MGA tend to avoid showing the character acting on his attraction on women or even thinking about women at all. That's a whole discussion for another time, but I'm so glad that this was actually shown here. The pan rep gets a big 5/5 from me.
I loved the supporting cast too. Josh and Patrick’s friends were great to read about with their virtues and flaws, and Patrick’s family (well, part of it at least) was also lovely to read about. Patrick’s coming out to his mom was also one of the best I’ve read and I might have cried again.
Something this book differs from most romances is the pacing. (skip this paragraph if you don’t want to know anything about the romance) The MCs get together pretty soon (around 50% of the book) and the rest of the book is an exploration of the first few months of their relationship. I would also say that the first half of the book is more about Patrick’s character study, while in the second half we already feel like we know Patrick and the focus shifts to Josh, we find out why he does what he does and find out more about his family etc. It’s something I haven’t really seen in romances where usually the we-can’t-be-together-conflict lasts until the third fourth of the book, but I have to say it worked really well for me and I wish more romances sort of followed this path.
Another thing I loved about the book was the setting. San Francisco is one of the few big cities I’ve visited and I have to say, as a two-day tourist I didn’t exactly get the best impression from it. It’s…messy and the people tend to be kind of rude (sorry) (or maybe I was just unlucky). But this book feels like a love letter to this city and you can’t help but falling in love with it a little bit yourself too.
I briefly considered removing half a star from my rating because there were a few plot lines that I think didn’t necessarily need to be there and made me nervous about their outcome. This took a little bit of my enjoyment away, but ultimately I did think that all these things were handled well.
This is one of the most solid romances I’ve had the pleasure to read and I definitely recommend it.
Rep: Jewish pansexual MC; gay MC
TWs: alcohol and weed consumption, homophobia (challenged), bullying, past suicidal thoughts, transphobia (challenged), death of a loved one (not family)
This book is about Patrick, a gay boy from conservative Fresno, who moves to start college in the city of his dreams, San Francisco, where he hopes to leave all the bullying behind him. His apartment search lands him a room in a shared flat with other slightly older students, among which is Josh, a Jewish pansexual boy who was born and raised in San Francisco.
Right away what I loved from the first few chapters was Patrick’s reaction to how open and chill everyone was about Josh’s sexuality and about Patrick’s too. The contrast between their mentalities and the mentality of the people Patrick grew up with was both astounding and relatable, and while we’re talking about relatableness, let me tell you that the first half of the novel spoke to my soul because so many of Patrick’s experiences and feelings are something I went through in my own move. Also his feelings about leaving his mom and his family and being completely on his own were On Point and I might have cried in the first 10%.
Like with most romances, this is narrated by both Patrick and Josh and I enjoyed both POVs in different ways, and I think both characters were very well written and well researched. I can’t speak for Josh’s Jewish representation but I think it was well woven into his character and a big part of who he is.
I have something to say about the pansexual rep and it’s that I feel like some people might not love it, but I personally did. What Josh does until meeting Patrick (sleeping with a lot of people and never being in a long relationship or a relationship at all) is not because of his sexuality at all and that's made very clear in the book. Edit: something I originally forgot to write about is the fact that Josh is shown at the beginning (before the romance with Patrick) in scenes where he's flirting and kissing girls too. It wouldn't be remarkable if it wasn't for the fact that a lot of m/m romances where one of the characters is MGA tend to avoid showing the character acting on his attraction on women or even thinking about women at all. That's a whole discussion for another time, but I'm so glad that this was actually shown here. The pan rep gets a big 5/5 from me.
I loved the supporting cast too. Josh and Patrick’s friends were great to read about with their virtues and flaws, and Patrick’s family (well, part of it at least) was also lovely to read about. Patrick’s coming out to his mom was also one of the best I’ve read and I might have cried again.
Something this book differs from most romances is the pacing. (skip this paragraph if you don’t want to know anything about the romance) The MCs get together pretty soon (around 50% of the book) and the rest of the book is an exploration of the first few months of their relationship. I would also say that the first half of the book is more about Patrick’s character study, while in the second half we already feel like we know Patrick and the focus shifts to Josh, we find out why he does what he does and find out more about his family etc. It’s something I haven’t really seen in romances where usually the we-can’t-be-together-conflict lasts until the third fourth of the book, but I have to say it worked really well for me and I wish more romances sort of followed this path.
Another thing I loved about the book was the setting. San Francisco is one of the few big cities I’ve visited and I have to say, as a two-day tourist I didn’t exactly get the best impression from it. It’s…messy and the people tend to be kind of rude (sorry) (or maybe I was just unlucky). But this book feels like a love letter to this city and you can’t help but falling in love with it a little bit yourself too.
I briefly considered removing half a star from my rating because there were a few plot lines that I think didn’t necessarily need to be there and made me nervous about their outcome. This took a little bit of my enjoyment away, but ultimately I did think that all these things were handled well.
This is one of the most solid romances I’ve had the pleasure to read and I definitely recommend it.
Rep: Jewish pansexual MC; gay MC
TWs: alcohol and weed consumption, homophobia (challenged), bullying, past suicidal thoughts, transphobia (challenged), death of a loved one (not family)
September 4, 2018
“You know you that you don’t have to save me…..it’s not your job to save me.”
“I know.”
Patrick and Josh’s story in Calling Calling Calling Me, the new adult MM romance by Natasha Washington, was beautifully sweet and so incredibly engaging, we easily became swept up in their romance, with these two boys and their friends winning us over completely.
‘That’s what the rainbows mean. We’re all part of this rainbow and sometimes we’re different colors depending on the day.’
Patrick Mahoney is eighteen, in the process of moving from Fresno to San Francisco to attend college. Patrick leaves behind painful memories of a place that wouldn’t accept him for being gay, where his high school years were traumatic, to say the least. Bullied, taunted, ostracised and made to feel a freak, Patrick needs a new start, to leave the memories behind.
Patrick’s parents protected him, resorting to homeschooling Patrick to shield him from the bullies. It was so dreadfully sad to hear Patrick’s story and devastating to think of those who suffer this treatment in real life. Thank God he had his parents in his corner.
‘Patrick was out of this world, originating from some crazy fairy planet where all the boys were beautiful and had delicate wrists and smiled with their eyes.’
Patrick answers an ad to be a 4th roommate and meets Josh, Kai, and Freddy, three boys who share his love of the arts, writing, theatre, and music. His mum has concerns, mostly of letting her boy go, but Patrick feels as though he’s met kindred spirits and desperately wants to move in, convincing his Mum it’s the right place for him. His mum relents after the boys meet her and win her over. In San Francisco, Patrick feels as though he can finally breathe and be who he really is.
Patrick is immediately enamoured by twenty one year old Josh Dirda, who is the world wise and popular to Patrick’s innocence and awkwardness. Josh is as equally drawn to the quiet vulnerable Patrick and they soon strike up a friendship, which beautifully develops into more.
‘Josh belonged to everybody, and people who belonged to everybody? They could never be yours.’
This is very much a story of self-discovery, growth, and acceptance, and it’s a joy to see the troubled and lonely Patrick find the acceptance he’s so desperately wanted all his life. The relationship between Josh and Patrick felt organic, natural and never forced, and was a delight to witness.
The relationships between both boys and their families were incredibly heart-warming, especially their mother’s. Patrick’s mum had the hard task of letting her vulnerable boy head out into the big wide world, yet Pat always knew her support was unwavering and her love absolute.
‘That was what Patrick’s mom was to him – his safe place when nothing else was.’
If you’re after a story that will captivate you and warm your heart, please meet Patrick, Josh and their artsy group of friends who’ll charm you with their wit, fun, sweetness, and love.
CALLING CALLING CALLING ME can be purchased below
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August 28, 2018
Truth. When I first started this I kind of regretted requesting it. I felt like I might be too old (and jaded) to enjoy this kind of story. Patrick seemed just so very young to me when responding to the room for rent email. So, I was a little leery at the beginning but I was also very wrong.
I’m probably still a little too old and probably not the right audience but I enjoyed every bit of this. Seriously, it is impossible for me to give this anything less than 5★'s. I loved it.
Where the beginning felt very young, naïve maybe, as the story progressed forward it remained youthful and fresh but not juvenile. I didn’t feel like I was reading about kids even though I guess they kind of are. I felt like I was reading about young adults making their way. I understood it and also longed for the days.
This was just a beautiful story about two boys (and all their wonderful friends and family) making their way through this thing we call life but finding they get to do it together, together, together.
Stories like this make me wish I had left home after high school. Stories like this just make me reflect.
I am so glad that I pushed through the very beginning because I ended up finding a beautiful coming of age romance that left me feeling so much joy.
Lovely.
**ARC provided by A Novel Take Promotions in exchange for an honest review.**
I’m probably still a little too old and probably not the right audience but I enjoyed every bit of this. Seriously, it is impossible for me to give this anything less than 5★'s. I loved it.
Where the beginning felt very young, naïve maybe, as the story progressed forward it remained youthful and fresh but not juvenile. I didn’t feel like I was reading about kids even though I guess they kind of are. I felt like I was reading about young adults making their way. I understood it and also longed for the days.
This was just a beautiful story about two boys (and all their wonderful friends and family) making their way through this thing we call life but finding they get to do it together, together, together.
Stories like this make me wish I had left home after high school. Stories like this just make me reflect.
I am so glad that I pushed through the very beginning because I ended up finding a beautiful coming of age romance that left me feeling so much joy.
Lovely.
**ARC provided by A Novel Take Promotions in exchange for an honest review.**
November 9, 2018
Nail art can be found here -> Calling Me Nail Art
Character driven stories are really my jam, and this is all that. It is everything you think a NA romance should be. Filled with firsts, all new and fresh. New experiences, new people, new dreams, first loves, first kisses, new stories to tell.
Fresh out of high school, Patrick is escaping his demons from the hometown that has always felt like a narrow mold he didn't quite fit. Now that he is finally in the city of his dreams it feels like this could be his home. While at sometimes things feel easier than he could have imagined and other times it feels like he as bitten off more than he can chew.
Josh has always lived in this beautiful, lively, proud city, but sometimes you want to run even when your home is where everyone runs to. When your struggle is how to show your true self without getting hurt, it seems like starting fresh somewhere else would have been the smarter plan.
Josh and Patrick, while longing for more, are building a friendship in this story. Something with teeth and truth and deep affection. They stumble, as people will do, but they figure it out.
So, there was a lot to like about Patrick and Josh. But the best things about this couple? They communicate! And they are not afraid to apologize. There is a lot of introspection and inner dialogue in this book, especially in the beginning, but there is also more than enough open communication as the story progresses. As they work through their changing relationship and even as they navigate just being *in* a relationship, they are always talking along the way. They are understanding and open (for most things) and willing. They both own their quirks, mistakes, and desires. There is something so refreshing about reading a book where the MCs are so mature despite their ages.
I also loved the other characters. The roommates are fabulous in their acceptance and their friendships always feel genuine.
Both Patrick's and Josh's parents are supportive and loving in their own way. The love in and of their families is well written and tangible.
The last major character was San Francisco. The city is vibrant in the telling and I loved it.
This is relatively low on drama and angst (what little there was was short-lived), especially for new adult. It, dare I say, felt almost too easy to read at times - come on, is that even a complaint? What am I even complaining about here?? Nothing. I am really just recommending it.
*Copy provided by A Novel Take PR*
Character driven stories are really my jam, and this is all that. It is everything you think a NA romance should be. Filled with firsts, all new and fresh. New experiences, new people, new dreams, first loves, first kisses, new stories to tell.
Fresh out of high school, Patrick is escaping his demons from the hometown that has always felt like a narrow mold he didn't quite fit. Now that he is finally in the city of his dreams it feels like this could be his home. While at sometimes things feel easier than he could have imagined and other times it feels like he as bitten off more than he can chew.
Josh has always lived in this beautiful, lively, proud city, but sometimes you want to run even when your home is where everyone runs to. When your struggle is how to show your true self without getting hurt, it seems like starting fresh somewhere else would have been the smarter plan.
Josh and Patrick, while longing for more, are building a friendship in this story. Something with teeth and truth and deep affection. They stumble, as people will do, but they figure it out.
So, there was a lot to like about Patrick and Josh. But the best things about this couple? They communicate! And they are not afraid to apologize. There is a lot of introspection and inner dialogue in this book, especially in the beginning, but there is also more than enough open communication as the story progresses. As they work through their changing relationship and even as they navigate just being *in* a relationship, they are always talking along the way. They are understanding and open (for most things) and willing. They both own their quirks, mistakes, and desires. There is something so refreshing about reading a book where the MCs are so mature despite their ages.
I also loved the other characters. The roommates are fabulous in their acceptance and their friendships always feel genuine.
Both Patrick's and Josh's parents are supportive and loving in their own way. The love in and of their families is well written and tangible.
The last major character was San Francisco. The city is vibrant in the telling and I loved it.
This is relatively low on drama and angst (what little there was was short-lived), especially for new adult. It, dare I say, felt almost too easy to read at times - come on, is that even a complaint? What am I even complaining about here?? Nothing. I am really just recommending it.
*Copy provided by A Novel Take PR*
Read
September 1, 2018I'm not really getting into this as much as I thought I would. A bit of the reason why is the writing. I will try this again one day when I'm in the mood.
September 20, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
This was a well done, in depth, coming of age story that was also this author’s debut. The book focuses on both Patrick and Josh and we get both points of view. The characters are well developed and there is a true sense of knowing both guys by the book’s end.
Patrick is finally leaving conservative Fresno for San Francisco. While he can’t wait, he’s close to his family and he has mixed feelings about truly being on his own. The book is character driven and relationship driven, and the focus is on growing up with a coming of age feel. The guys both have a reasonably good support system with immediate family and they don’t have to take on side jobs in addition to their studies and their personal journey is the draw. As the guys focus on their growing feelings for each other, there are growing pains, but little angst overall.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
This was a well done, in depth, coming of age story that was also this author’s debut. The book focuses on both Patrick and Josh and we get both points of view. The characters are well developed and there is a true sense of knowing both guys by the book’s end.
Patrick is finally leaving conservative Fresno for San Francisco. While he can’t wait, he’s close to his family and he has mixed feelings about truly being on his own. The book is character driven and relationship driven, and the focus is on growing up with a coming of age feel. The guys both have a reasonably good support system with immediate family and they don’t have to take on side jobs in addition to their studies and their personal journey is the draw. As the guys focus on their growing feelings for each other, there are growing pains, but little angst overall.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
June 8, 2019
Coming of age story set in SF. This had great flow and interesting characters -- who could have used more fleshing out. I wanted to see Josh and Patrick more outside of their relationship but we don't see much except bars and home time. Having just moved to SF myself I was hoping for more in the way of Patrick exploring the city but it's pretty limited frankly in what it shows you. What it does share is pretty fun - but it felt more cursory to me.
The relationship is a build and an awkward one at times - for me the sex was more build up and hormones and less hot, but maybe that's natural given the NA feel of this and the age of characters and that felt very true. Enjoyed the dialogue (I've got a 22 year old and it feels pretty accurate to me with what I hear) - probably my favorite part was the way it just seemed to capture the moment just right. There's great talent here with that area.
Impressed with this new author!
The relationship is a build and an awkward one at times - for me the sex was more build up and hormones and less hot, but maybe that's natural given the NA feel of this and the age of characters and that felt very true. Enjoyed the dialogue (I've got a 22 year old and it feels pretty accurate to me with what I hear) - probably my favorite part was the way it just seemed to capture the moment just right. There's great talent here with that area.
Impressed with this new author!
September 13, 2018
*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*
- Review to come
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
- Review to come
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
August 10, 2018
RTC but whoa did it keep me awake
September 23, 2018
What about Calling Calling Calling Me caused me to request a review copy? Let’s see, when I reevaluate the synopsis, I can tell you I liked the idea of Patrick wanting to escape his conservative area for the freedom of San Fran. I also liked how Josh was a playboy who was taken in by the younger more innocent man. Plus, in the promo we were told it was a New Adult read. I’m not a fan of New Adult, but I was very curious about this one because it felt less heavy. New Adult in general is a very angsty genre, but I figured my opinion may change if the story were lighter.
Whatever it was that drew me in, it was a raving success! I wasn’t sure how I’d feel when I started, because Patrick seemed so young and so childlike. Josh seemed so much older than him when they met. However, the interesting thing was as I got to know their characters I slowly realized Patrick was actually much wiser for his age than I originally thought. Yes, he’s innocent in many ways, however he was matured by everything he went through in his hometown. And Josh, who felt so grown up, was actually pretty immature in life -due to his own personal history. They ended up being very good for each other. Josh lightened Patrick up, and Patrick brought Josh down to earth. Plus, they were so freaking romantic and adorable! Reading their slow development from friends to lovers, then just plain love, was amazing. It even made me cry, which I did not expect at all.
In the LGBT stories I’ve read it seems like the trend to fall back on parents who aren’t supportive. I’ve always wished for more books showcasing loving parents, and it’s exactly what I got in Calling Calling Calling Me. Both Patrick and Josh came from families that adored them. It would have been easy to give Patrick unsupportive family, along with his conservative city, but instead he had two loving parents who only wanted him to be safe and happy. I think, besides the boys relationship, it was another huge plus for me.
Actually, all of the relationships in the story were positive. It wasn’t only the romantic relationship, or the parental relationships. It also highlighted loving friendships, and affectionate sibling relationships. They weren’t without flaws, but that’s what made them even more positive and realistic. It’s what made Calling Calling Calling Me positive and realistic.
Thank you to A Novel Take PR for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Like this review? Read more like it on Birdie Bookworm!
Whatever it was that drew me in, it was a raving success! I wasn’t sure how I’d feel when I started, because Patrick seemed so young and so childlike. Josh seemed so much older than him when they met. However, the interesting thing was as I got to know their characters I slowly realized Patrick was actually much wiser for his age than I originally thought. Yes, he’s innocent in many ways, however he was matured by everything he went through in his hometown. And Josh, who felt so grown up, was actually pretty immature in life -due to his own personal history. They ended up being very good for each other. Josh lightened Patrick up, and Patrick brought Josh down to earth. Plus, they were so freaking romantic and adorable! Reading their slow development from friends to lovers, then just plain love, was amazing. It even made me cry, which I did not expect at all.
In the LGBT stories I’ve read it seems like the trend to fall back on parents who aren’t supportive. I’ve always wished for more books showcasing loving parents, and it’s exactly what I got in Calling Calling Calling Me. Both Patrick and Josh came from families that adored them. It would have been easy to give Patrick unsupportive family, along with his conservative city, but instead he had two loving parents who only wanted him to be safe and happy. I think, besides the boys relationship, it was another huge plus for me.
Actually, all of the relationships in the story were positive. It wasn’t only the romantic relationship, or the parental relationships. It also highlighted loving friendships, and affectionate sibling relationships. They weren’t without flaws, but that’s what made them even more positive and realistic. It’s what made Calling Calling Calling Me positive and realistic.
Thank you to A Novel Take PR for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Like this review? Read more like it on Birdie Bookworm!
September 5, 2018
3.75 Stars
The story follows Patrick. He's lives in the town of Fresno and he's finally getting out. Fresno is not home to many open-minded people, and Patrick is more than ready to move to San Francisco for college, away from the place that would hate him for his sexuality and the people who bullied him relentlessly.
In San Francisco, he's rooming with four other guys. One of them is Josh. Josh is a playboy, of sorts. He's fun, charismatic, and easy to get along with. He's also very attractive so being a "playboy" isn't exactly difficult. But ever since his email correspondence with Patrick, Josh has liked him. But even as Josh starts to realize, spending more time with Patrick, that he might want something more than a hook-up with him, it's difficult for him to get past his issues with commitment.
Now, my initial problem with the book was that it seemed really flaky, not that well-written, with poorly constructed dialogue. The author was not doing a good job of how college boys talk. The flaky part was mainly because of the other roommates, who remained pretty one-dimensional throughout the novel, along with most of their friends (not good). Still, the flakiness away quickly, leaving behind acceptable levels of humour. The weird college talk went away too, and the writing got better.
But what was really good were the developments with Josh and Patrick. We learnt more about what happened in Fresno with Patrick and spent time with his family. We learnt the issues Josh had with relationships and met his family. Patrick and Josh became friends, there was build-up with their relationship and, when they were ready to take the plunge, it was really romantic.
Josh is still not my favourite person because he screwed up pretty bad but I grew to have faith in his and Patrick's relationship. They supported each other, had some (but not too many) very hot times and made for a great couple.
The writing could still have been better. There was a mix-up with when to use a noun and when a pronoun in a sentence. I have an example I can quote, though some might find it a tiny bit explicit.
Now if you interchange the words "he" and "Josh", the sentence is good. Otherwise, it can get confusing. And this happened many times. There were also typos but I think those might be corrected in the published copy (I read an ARC).
Overall, this was a good book. It had problems but they didn't overtake the story or the romance. I really liked it and I'm excited to see what else the author will write (this was only her first book). The discussion of homophobia in towns like Fresno and the harm that can be done by careless words and actions, it was portrayed well. Yet the book was also pretty angst-free and entertaining, and sweet. I definitely recommend giving it a shot. In fact, there's E-book giveaway you can enter here if you want. If you do enter, good luck!
Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows Patrick. He's lives in the town of Fresno and he's finally getting out. Fresno is not home to many open-minded people, and Patrick is more than ready to move to San Francisco for college, away from the place that would hate him for his sexuality and the people who bullied him relentlessly.
In San Francisco, he's rooming with four other guys. One of them is Josh. Josh is a playboy, of sorts. He's fun, charismatic, and easy to get along with. He's also very attractive so being a "playboy" isn't exactly difficult. But ever since his email correspondence with Patrick, Josh has liked him. But even as Josh starts to realize, spending more time with Patrick, that he might want something more than a hook-up with him, it's difficult for him to get past his issues with commitment.
Now, my initial problem with the book was that it seemed really flaky, not that well-written, with poorly constructed dialogue. The author was not doing a good job of how college boys talk. The flaky part was mainly because of the other roommates, who remained pretty one-dimensional throughout the novel, along with most of their friends (not good). Still, the flakiness away quickly, leaving behind acceptable levels of humour. The weird college talk went away too, and the writing got better.
But what was really good were the developments with Josh and Patrick. We learnt more about what happened in Fresno with Patrick and spent time with his family. We learnt the issues Josh had with relationships and met his family. Patrick and Josh became friends, there was build-up with their relationship and, when they were ready to take the plunge, it was really romantic.
Josh is still not my favourite person because he screwed up pretty bad but I grew to have faith in his and Patrick's relationship. They supported each other, had some (but not too many) very hot times and made for a great couple.
The writing could still have been better. There was a mix-up with when to use a noun and when a pronoun in a sentence. I have an example I can quote, though some might find it a tiny bit explicit.
"He made a low sound in his throat when Patrick pushed his hand into Josh's jeans."
Now if you interchange the words "he" and "Josh", the sentence is good. Otherwise, it can get confusing. And this happened many times. There were also typos but I think those might be corrected in the published copy (I read an ARC).
Overall, this was a good book. It had problems but they didn't overtake the story or the romance. I really liked it and I'm excited to see what else the author will write (this was only her first book). The discussion of homophobia in towns like Fresno and the harm that can be done by careless words and actions, it was portrayed well. Yet the book was also pretty angst-free and entertaining, and sweet. I definitely recommend giving it a shot. In fact, there's E-book giveaway you can enter here if you want. If you do enter, good luck!
Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 9, 2018
This book was everything I wanted it would be. Whenever I pick up a new author, I never really know what to expect and admit that I can go into the story pretty critical. However, within just the first couple of pages of Calling, Calling, Calling Me, I was completely hooked.
What captured my attention and held it all the way until the end is Washington’s writing style. The voice with which she writes is so lovely and smooth, poetic but subtle. Her prose completely leapt off the page and I caught myself re-reading passages over and over not because I didn’t understand them (as usual when I read slowly) but because the way she put words together was so beautiful I wanted to experience them over and over.
This book is a character-driven coming-of-age new adult story. New adult can go multiple ways. It can be steamy. It can be angsty. It can be immature. But CCCM is none of those. Patrick and Josh are two incredibly crafted characters who, while being 18 and 21 and relatively immature life-experience-wise, they’re also often mature for their ages. Everything is balanced so well.
I think my absolute favorite passage in the book happens early on when Patrick’s parents move him into his new apartment in San Fransisco. Patrick is embarrassed by his clingy mom and ready to start his new life already, but he’s also struck with longing and gratitude for his parents that he doesn’t know how to verbalize. It took me right back to the day my mom and stepdad moved me into my dorm freshman year. That passage was written so beautifully, evoking all of these real emotions that immediately had me connecting with Patrick. That’s how you write an amazing character, folks.
It’s new adult, so there’s some angst. But I wouldn’t call this an angsty book at all. It was almost relaxing to read; I basically fell into the pages and didn’t surface again until the end. It’s romantic from the very first page, has bits of humor and drama, some heat when necessary (it is Patrick coming of age, after all). But nothing is unnecessary and nothing is excessive. Everything that happens has a purpose in driving these characters forward both individually and as a couple.
I loved this book so much. It’s definitely one I’ll reread (and one I’d love to hear in audio format - hint, hint) and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys new adult/coming-of-age - and even those who just really love well developed characters. Definitely pick this one up.
An advanced copy of this book was received for review on OMGReads.
What captured my attention and held it all the way until the end is Washington’s writing style. The voice with which she writes is so lovely and smooth, poetic but subtle. Her prose completely leapt off the page and I caught myself re-reading passages over and over not because I didn’t understand them (as usual when I read slowly) but because the way she put words together was so beautiful I wanted to experience them over and over.
This book is a character-driven coming-of-age new adult story. New adult can go multiple ways. It can be steamy. It can be angsty. It can be immature. But CCCM is none of those. Patrick and Josh are two incredibly crafted characters who, while being 18 and 21 and relatively immature life-experience-wise, they’re also often mature for their ages. Everything is balanced so well.
I think my absolute favorite passage in the book happens early on when Patrick’s parents move him into his new apartment in San Fransisco. Patrick is embarrassed by his clingy mom and ready to start his new life already, but he’s also struck with longing and gratitude for his parents that he doesn’t know how to verbalize. It took me right back to the day my mom and stepdad moved me into my dorm freshman year. That passage was written so beautifully, evoking all of these real emotions that immediately had me connecting with Patrick. That’s how you write an amazing character, folks.
It’s new adult, so there’s some angst. But I wouldn’t call this an angsty book at all. It was almost relaxing to read; I basically fell into the pages and didn’t surface again until the end. It’s romantic from the very first page, has bits of humor and drama, some heat when necessary (it is Patrick coming of age, after all). But nothing is unnecessary and nothing is excessive. Everything that happens has a purpose in driving these characters forward both individually and as a couple.
I loved this book so much. It’s definitely one I’ll reread (and one I’d love to hear in audio format - hint, hint) and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys new adult/coming-of-age - and even those who just really love well developed characters. Definitely pick this one up.
An advanced copy of this book was received for review on OMGReads.
Read
May 6, 2019There are books that you read fast because the plot is interesting and you feel the need to know what’s going to happen. And then there are books that you read fast because of the knowledge that if you put it apart to read later, you’re not going to pull it again. For me this book is one of the later. Every time I stopped reading it, I knew that I would have to read it again later and I was scared of the boredom that would wait for me.
This book was one of the most boring things that I have read. The characters were simple and boring stereotypes. I think the author had something in mind that couldn’t put in the paper. They must’ve thought of some character development that never occurred because of the insta-love type of relationship that they created. Oh my God, it wasn’t even insta, it was before-knowing-each-other-love. That Josh felt in love just by reading an e-mail. It was so absurd that a boy that was so extremely against falling in love just needed a single e-mail to fell just because Patrick was so “especial”. And nothing that happened to them made me feel interested. Every single problem lasted a chapter and it was superficially talked about. The bullying subplot, a chapter. The Benny subplot, a chapter. The Ramon problem, a chapter. There was no place to credible character development.
Speaking about Ramon. It was so ugly that the author chose to talk about Spanish colonialism and it was in the mouth of Patrick instead of a latino guy when they had Ramon there. When I read it, it felt just like a single phrase put there without context to make Patrick look like a concerned guy. If he would’ve been really concerned, he would’ve talked about how he’s still a colonialist in the United States, but he did not. He talked about the horrifying things made by “others”, because it’s easier. I don’t why I would expect that the author would make Ramon talk about things that would actually concern him when they put zero effort in the secondary characters. They were there just to create drama one chapter or to help the two main characters to fuck.
I also didn’t like some useless chapters where they just went to parties. It felt like I was reading a fanfic about two characters that I didn’t care about.
In conclusion, I won’t put a one-star rate because I actually think that the author had good intentions and because it’s not a popular book and my poor rating could have a bad effect. But I won’t recommend it.
This book was one of the most boring things that I have read. The characters were simple and boring stereotypes. I think the author had something in mind that couldn’t put in the paper. They must’ve thought of some character development that never occurred because of the insta-love type of relationship that they created. Oh my God, it wasn’t even insta, it was before-knowing-each-other-love. That Josh felt in love just by reading an e-mail. It was so absurd that a boy that was so extremely against falling in love just needed a single e-mail to fell just because Patrick was so “especial”. And nothing that happened to them made me feel interested. Every single problem lasted a chapter and it was superficially talked about. The bullying subplot, a chapter. The Benny subplot, a chapter. The Ramon problem, a chapter. There was no place to credible character development.
Speaking about Ramon. It was so ugly that the author chose to talk about Spanish colonialism and it was in the mouth of Patrick instead of a latino guy when they had Ramon there. When I read it, it felt just like a single phrase put there without context to make Patrick look like a concerned guy. If he would’ve been really concerned, he would’ve talked about how he’s still a colonialist in the United States, but he did not. He talked about the horrifying things made by “others”, because it’s easier. I don’t why I would expect that the author would make Ramon talk about things that would actually concern him when they put zero effort in the secondary characters. They were there just to create drama one chapter or to help the two main characters to fuck.
I also didn’t like some useless chapters where they just went to parties. It felt like I was reading a fanfic about two characters that I didn’t care about.
In conclusion, I won’t put a one-star rate because I actually think that the author had good intentions and because it’s not a popular book and my poor rating could have a bad effect. But I won’t recommend it.
October 11, 2018
“You know you that you don’t have to save me…..it’s not your job to save me.”
“I know.”
Patrick and Josh’s story in Calling Calling Calling Me, the new adult MM romance by Natasha Washington, was beautifully sweet and so incredibly engaging, we easily became swept up in their romance, with these two boys and their friends winning us over completely.
‘That’s what the rainbows mean. We’re all part of this rainbow and sometimes we’re different colors depending on the day.’
Patrick Mahoney is eighteen, in the process of moving from Fresno to San Francisco to attend college. Patrick leaves behind painful memories of a place that wouldn’t accept him for being gay, where his high school years were traumatic, to say the least. Bullied, taunted, ostracised and made to feel a freak, Patrick needs a new start, to leave the memories behind.
Patrick’s parents protected him, resorting to homeschooling Patrick to shield him from the bullies. It was so dreadfully sad to hear Patrick’s story and devastating to think of those who suffer this treatment in real life. Thank God he had his parents in his corner.
‘Patrick was out of this world, originating from some crazy fairy planet where all the boys were beautiful and had delicate wrists and smiled with their eyes.’
Patrick answers an ad to be a 4th roommate and meets Josh, Kai, and Freddy, three boys who share his love of the arts, writing, theatre, and music. His mum has concerns, mostly of letting her boy go, but Patrick feels as though he’s met kindred spirits and desperately wants to move in, convincing his Mum it’s the right place for him. His mum relents after the boys meet her and win her over. In San Francisco, Patrick feels as though he can finally breathe and be who he really is.
Patrick is immediately enamoured by twenty one year old Josh Dirda, who is the world wise and popular to Patrick’s innocence and awkwardness. Josh is as equally drawn to the quiet vulnerable Patrick and they soon strike up a friendship, which beautifully develops into more.
‘Josh belonged to everybody, and people who belonged to everybody? They could never be yours.’
This is very much a story of self-discovery, growth, and acceptance, and it’s a joy to see the troubled and lonely Patrick find the acceptance he’s so desperately wanted all his life. The relationship between Josh and Patrick felt organic, natural and never forced, and was a delight to witness.
The relationships between both boys and their families were incredibly heart-warming, especially their mother’s. Patrick’s mum had the hard task of letting her vulnerable boy head out into the big wide world, yet Pat always knew her support was unwavering and her love absolute.
‘That was what Patrick’s mom was to him – his safe place when nothing else was.’
If you’re after a story that will captivate you and warm your heart, please meet Patrick, Josh and their artsy group of friends who’ll charm you with their wit, fun, sweetness, and love.
CALLING CALLING CALLING ME can be purchased below
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August 28, 2018
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is a beautifully written New Adult romance. It is the story of Patrick, a gay teenager who jumps at the chance to leave Fresno and move to San Francisco when he starts college. It is the story of Patrick growing into himself and finding his place among his bohemian roommates and the artsy students in his classes. It is also the story of Patrick’s first romance.
This is a character driven story and the characters are wonderful. There is something both timeless and fresh about Patrick’s flatmates and I love the combination of innocence and curiosity that Patrick brings to his new world. Even when we only get glimpses of characters - like both Josh and Patrick’s families - the characters feel realistically complicated and layered.
I also love the sense of place in this book. Parts of this story are a love letter to the Castro district of San Francisco while other passages convey the pure joy of a first apartment, of college parties. And while Patrick’s experiences are specific, the book allows all young readers to hope for a life after high school in a place where they will truly belong.
For me, this story is more about Patrick’s growing up than it is about the romance but the author captures the joy and agony of first crushes and young love beautifully. I loved this story and I can’t wait to read more by this author.
This is a beautifully written New Adult romance. It is the story of Patrick, a gay teenager who jumps at the chance to leave Fresno and move to San Francisco when he starts college. It is the story of Patrick growing into himself and finding his place among his bohemian roommates and the artsy students in his classes. It is also the story of Patrick’s first romance.
This is a character driven story and the characters are wonderful. There is something both timeless and fresh about Patrick’s flatmates and I love the combination of innocence and curiosity that Patrick brings to his new world. Even when we only get glimpses of characters - like both Josh and Patrick’s families - the characters feel realistically complicated and layered.
I also love the sense of place in this book. Parts of this story are a love letter to the Castro district of San Francisco while other passages convey the pure joy of a first apartment, of college parties. And while Patrick’s experiences are specific, the book allows all young readers to hope for a life after high school in a place where they will truly belong.
For me, this story is more about Patrick’s growing up than it is about the romance but the author captures the joy and agony of first crushes and young love beautifully. I loved this story and I can’t wait to read more by this author.
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May 18, 2019I didn't like the main characters so I didn't enjoy the story. I found them really plain and boring, but I guess that if you like the main characters then you'll probably find this book really interesing.
September 2, 2018
Adored it. Can’t believe this is a debut — such charming characters and lovely prose. One of those rare books you finish and want to start all over again, because you’re not ready to say goodbye to the characters.
September 8, 2018
From the start, I was drawn into Calling Calling Calling Me, as the tone of this Natasha Washington novel had me mesmerized.
I love a good new adult novel, coming of age story, and this one definitely fits the bill. I find both Patrick and Josh, as well as their friends, to be well written personalities. The author uses dual points of view to develop these characters deeply. This book is filled with many fun and exciting things; first times, new city, new people, new experiences, and new love.
After horrible bullying during his teen years, Patrick finds himself running away to attend college in a new town, San Francisco. He wasn’t able to be openly gay in his conservative town, and it nearly broke his spirit. Moving in with some older roommates, he meets the intriguing Josh, who takes an interest in Patrick, and appoints himself as Patrick’s guide for the city.
Patrick’s feelings of freedom are genuine, and extremely accurate. On top of that, for the first time he’s also living where it’s okay to be gay, and it’s a whole new world for the young man, gifting the reader with some powerful scenes.
Josh, pansexual, has also faced his own issues, which have caused him to sleep around with any willing partner, instead of looking for love. With Patrick, he’s able to trust in love, allowing himself to be the man he wants to be. I find Josh’s slutty ways to be perfectly developed, and his growth throughout the story is fantastic and believable.
Both young men have life altering experiences in their pasts, which have shaped them into the men they are now. Some of these events will leave you crying and heartbroken for them.
Natasha Washington expertly makes San Francisco into a character of its own, including atmospheric descriptions with lots of historical information. As one who has never been there, I felt completely transported into the city and its ambience. Mentions of Harvey Milk and the Castro District perfectly help to describe this unique setting.
One of my favorite things about this story, though, is the strong, unbreakable bond that develops between Patrick and Josh. This adds tremendously to their relationship as it develops into more. Throughout their issues and setbacks, their strong friendship helps to bring them back together, leaving them stronger.
Calling Calling Calling Me is a character driven, coming of age story, which happens to include a romance. This is Natasha Washington’s debut into the world of contemporary romance, and it’s exquisite.
I love a good new adult novel, coming of age story, and this one definitely fits the bill. I find both Patrick and Josh, as well as their friends, to be well written personalities. The author uses dual points of view to develop these characters deeply. This book is filled with many fun and exciting things; first times, new city, new people, new experiences, and new love.
After horrible bullying during his teen years, Patrick finds himself running away to attend college in a new town, San Francisco. He wasn’t able to be openly gay in his conservative town, and it nearly broke his spirit. Moving in with some older roommates, he meets the intriguing Josh, who takes an interest in Patrick, and appoints himself as Patrick’s guide for the city.
Patrick’s feelings of freedom are genuine, and extremely accurate. On top of that, for the first time he’s also living where it’s okay to be gay, and it’s a whole new world for the young man, gifting the reader with some powerful scenes.
Josh, pansexual, has also faced his own issues, which have caused him to sleep around with any willing partner, instead of looking for love. With Patrick, he’s able to trust in love, allowing himself to be the man he wants to be. I find Josh’s slutty ways to be perfectly developed, and his growth throughout the story is fantastic and believable.
Both young men have life altering experiences in their pasts, which have shaped them into the men they are now. Some of these events will leave you crying and heartbroken for them.
Natasha Washington expertly makes San Francisco into a character of its own, including atmospheric descriptions with lots of historical information. As one who has never been there, I felt completely transported into the city and its ambience. Mentions of Harvey Milk and the Castro District perfectly help to describe this unique setting.
One of my favorite things about this story, though, is the strong, unbreakable bond that develops between Patrick and Josh. This adds tremendously to their relationship as it develops into more. Throughout their issues and setbacks, their strong friendship helps to bring them back together, leaving them stronger.
Calling Calling Calling Me is a character driven, coming of age story, which happens to include a romance. This is Natasha Washington’s debut into the world of contemporary romance, and it’s exquisite.
September 4, 2018
* Thank you to A Novel Take PR, the author and publisher for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review. All words written are my own*.
Content Warnings: Homophobia, Bullying, anxiety, explicit sex, alcohol consumption, drug use, slut shaming.
Rep: Pansexual Jewish MC, Gay MC, m/m romance, Genderqueer side character, queer side characters.
Calling, Calling, Calling me is an NA contemporary romance, told from the POVs of both Patrick and Josh as they come to terms with first love, college and who they are.
”I know you feel like you’re the only one because you don’t know anybody yet who feels the way you do. But you will find people like you. You’ll find them and they’ll find you.”
Josh and Patrick were both such interesting characters who I adored. Neither are perfect and both make mistakes throughout the novel. However they fit so well together and their growing relationship was adorable. It was defiantly insta attraction but I liked how the author took time for each character to develop feelings.
The plot is very character driven. It focuses solely on Patrick, his past and how he settles into San Francisco, and Josh, his family life and falling in love for the first time rather than just a one night stand. The author doesn’t brush over Patrick’s past. He has had a hard life in his home town and moving to San Francisco didn’t automatically make that go away. Patrick works through his past and slowly throughout the novel starts to accept who he is.
Josh slowly comes to terms with falling in love for the first time and letting go of old heartache. We also get a glimpse into his family life and the difference between were Josh comes from compared to Patrick.
Another thing I loved about this novel was the different discussions on sexuality and just how queer everyone was. I personally can’t speak for Josh’s pansexual rep, but I found all the rep in the novel to be well written and once I come across an own voice review I’ll leave a link below.
“Josh, all sexuality is on a spectrum. That’s what the rainbow means. We’re all part of this rainbow, and sometimes we’re different colors depending on the day.”
While it’s true I loved Calling, Calling, Calling me, there were times I was frustrated. Mostly at the lack of communication between characters and unnecessary drama. This book isn’t perfect but I enjoyed it all the same.
Overall a brilliant debut with an adorable romance that would have been better without the added drama! Nonetheless I still highly recommend.
Review to come on release day :)
Content Warnings: Homophobia, Bullying, anxiety, explicit sex, alcohol consumption, drug use, slut shaming.
Rep: Pansexual Jewish MC, Gay MC, m/m romance, Genderqueer side character, queer side characters.
Calling, Calling, Calling me is an NA contemporary romance, told from the POVs of both Patrick and Josh as they come to terms with first love, college and who they are.
”I know you feel like you’re the only one because you don’t know anybody yet who feels the way you do. But you will find people like you. You’ll find them and they’ll find you.”
Josh and Patrick were both such interesting characters who I adored. Neither are perfect and both make mistakes throughout the novel. However they fit so well together and their growing relationship was adorable. It was defiantly insta attraction but I liked how the author took time for each character to develop feelings.
The plot is very character driven. It focuses solely on Patrick, his past and how he settles into San Francisco, and Josh, his family life and falling in love for the first time rather than just a one night stand. The author doesn’t brush over Patrick’s past. He has had a hard life in his home town and moving to San Francisco didn’t automatically make that go away. Patrick works through his past and slowly throughout the novel starts to accept who he is.
Josh slowly comes to terms with falling in love for the first time and letting go of old heartache. We also get a glimpse into his family life and the difference between were Josh comes from compared to Patrick.
Another thing I loved about this novel was the different discussions on sexuality and just how queer everyone was. I personally can’t speak for Josh’s pansexual rep, but I found all the rep in the novel to be well written and once I come across an own voice review I’ll leave a link below.
“Josh, all sexuality is on a spectrum. That’s what the rainbow means. We’re all part of this rainbow, and sometimes we’re different colors depending on the day.”
While it’s true I loved Calling, Calling, Calling me, there were times I was frustrated. Mostly at the lack of communication between characters and unnecessary drama. This book isn’t perfect but I enjoyed it all the same.
Overall a brilliant debut with an adorable romance that would have been better without the added drama! Nonetheless I still highly recommend.
Review to come on release day :)
September 10, 2018
4 Stars!
Calling Calling Calling Me is new author Natasha Washington's debut book and as such, it is a great first effort and I, for one, will be waiting to see how she hones her talent and grows as a writer with her subsequent works.
Patrick was absolutely adorable and seemed more mature than his 18-years of age, although, at the same time, it kind of fit seeing as he had been bullied and forced to be homeschooled from a very young age and that changed him and made him what he was now. I liked Josh, but unfortunately, I found it difficult to connect with him. The whole thing with Ramon didn't particularly endear him to me, either. I really don't feel as if he would've put a stop to it, no matter what he told Patrick, and this marred my perception of not only Josh, but him and Patrick as a couple, which is a pity because they were sweet and hot together before then.
I loved Taneisha, Eric, Artemis and the rest of Patrick and Josh's roommates, although I truly don't know what to feel about Alexis and all her drinking, but that's neither here nor there. They were a fantastic supporting cast, along with Patrick and Josh's families, and truly contributed to making the story better.
Overall, it was a great read, I was engrossed in this coming of age story and found it sweet, romantic and well-written, and even if I had a bit of trouble with some things *cough Josh cough*, I think others might find it enjoyable as well.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Calling Calling Calling Me is new author Natasha Washington's debut book and as such, it is a great first effort and I, for one, will be waiting to see how she hones her talent and grows as a writer with her subsequent works.
Patrick was absolutely adorable and seemed more mature than his 18-years of age, although, at the same time, it kind of fit seeing as he had been bullied and forced to be homeschooled from a very young age and that changed him and made him what he was now. I liked Josh, but unfortunately, I found it difficult to connect with him. The whole thing with Ramon didn't particularly endear him to me, either. I really don't feel as if he would've put a stop to it, no matter what he told Patrick, and this marred my perception of not only Josh, but him and Patrick as a couple, which is a pity because they were sweet and hot together before then.
I loved Taneisha, Eric, Artemis and the rest of Patrick and Josh's roommates, although I truly don't know what to feel about Alexis and all her drinking, but that's neither here nor there. They were a fantastic supporting cast, along with Patrick and Josh's families, and truly contributed to making the story better.
Overall, it was a great read, I was engrossed in this coming of age story and found it sweet, romantic and well-written, and even if I had a bit of trouble with some things *cough Josh cough*, I think others might find it enjoyable as well.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
September 15, 2018
This was the perfect book at the perfect time. When we reviewers say "sweet," we mean it. Such a tender, open, wonderful romance. Uplifting.
Ms. Washington has never written a character I don't love, and I don't mean just the main characters, who are glorious. I mean to tell you that I am immediately also in love with the concerned mom, the roommate who can't remember if he ordered pizza, the wild besty who drunk texts, and the sun-drenched single bedroom that is available for rent. I want to take each and every one of them to Harvey's for an A++ Bloody Mary Martinez and fried calamari bites. Then to dance like the queer lunatics we are, full of as much life and love as this squishy tale.
Washington's wit and charm are unmatched. I looked like a fool, sitting at reading this story with big, dopey grins on my face. As we all should:
"'They're called microclimates,' Josh said, handing Patrick a mug of sweet-smelling tea."
"She sat lounging in a giant leather armchair that made her look like Edith Ann, a glass of red wine in one hand and a joint in the other."
"'You're going to propose to her in and alley? ... At night?' ... 'I met her there at night!'"
I know that alley! It smells like the public toilet that it is at night. And I love it for it's beautiful murals. Familiar and touching, like this entire book that helped my heart soar for a few hours in this sometimes too dark world.
I can't stop grinning. I will read everything ever written by Washington. I'm in love. <3 <3 <3
Ms. Washington has never written a character I don't love, and I don't mean just the main characters, who are glorious. I mean to tell you that I am immediately also in love with the concerned mom, the roommate who can't remember if he ordered pizza, the wild besty who drunk texts, and the sun-drenched single bedroom that is available for rent. I want to take each and every one of them to Harvey's for an A++ Bloody Mary Martinez and fried calamari bites. Then to dance like the queer lunatics we are, full of as much life and love as this squishy tale.
Washington's wit and charm are unmatched. I looked like a fool, sitting at reading this story with big, dopey grins on my face. As we all should:
"'They're called microclimates,' Josh said, handing Patrick a mug of sweet-smelling tea."
"She sat lounging in a giant leather armchair that made her look like Edith Ann, a glass of red wine in one hand and a joint in the other."
"'You're going to propose to her in and alley? ... At night?' ... 'I met her there at night!'"
I know that alley! It smells like the public toilet that it is at night. And I love it for it's beautiful murals. Familiar and touching, like this entire book that helped my heart soar for a few hours in this sometimes too dark world.
I can't stop grinning. I will read everything ever written by Washington. I'm in love. <3 <3 <3
September 3, 2018
This book was a delightful surprise! I am usually a little wary of debut authors, especially in the m/m genre, but I had nothing to worry about. I inhaled this book. I picked it up only intending to read a few pages and the next thing I knew it was the wee hours of the morning and I was done.
The plot was pretty standard: Josh and Patrick both had pasts they were running from but together they were able to move on. But the characters were all heart. I loved the easy banter between the two, I loved the relationships with their families, and I loved the friendships Patrick formed at school. (There were also sooo many nerdy references that I was living for, my favorite of which were of the Downtown Abbey variety).
The story delved into how bullying and rejection can effect someone, and Josh and Patrick’s struggles with how to move on from their different experiences was written well. They learned that there are people to support them and they don’t have to do it alone.
Josh and Patrick were truly lovely and their story was heartwarming. This was exactly what I needed!
Thank you A Novel Take PR for the ARC!
The plot was pretty standard: Josh and Patrick both had pasts they were running from but together they were able to move on. But the characters were all heart. I loved the easy banter between the two, I loved the relationships with their families, and I loved the friendships Patrick formed at school. (There were also sooo many nerdy references that I was living for, my favorite of which were of the Downtown Abbey variety).
The story delved into how bullying and rejection can effect someone, and Josh and Patrick’s struggles with how to move on from their different experiences was written well. They learned that there are people to support them and they don’t have to do it alone.
Josh and Patrick were truly lovely and their story was heartwarming. This was exactly what I needed!
Thank you A Novel Take PR for the ARC!
December 17, 2020
Nous suivons Patrick qui rêve de changement, mais surtout de liberté afin d’être lui-même. Cette coloc avec quatre gars pourrait bien être ce dont il a besoin.
Josh quant à lui profite à fond de la vie sans s’attacher, mais son attirance pour son nouveau coloc pourrait changer bien des choses.
Une romance simple, mais agréable à lire, avec quelques surprises et petits pincement de cœur pour nos deux personnages.
L’auteur, que j’ai lu pour la première fois, à une écriture que je trouve fluide. Durant le récit elle permet à ses personnages de se dévoiler petit à petit, ce qui nous permet de mieux les comprendre, mais surtout qu’ils se comprennent mieux.
En résumé, une lecture agréable et une belle découverte.
Josh quant à lui profite à fond de la vie sans s’attacher, mais son attirance pour son nouveau coloc pourrait changer bien des choses.
Une romance simple, mais agréable à lire, avec quelques surprises et petits pincement de cœur pour nos deux personnages.
L’auteur, que j’ai lu pour la première fois, à une écriture que je trouve fluide. Durant le récit elle permet à ses personnages de se dévoiler petit à petit, ce qui nous permet de mieux les comprendre, mais surtout qu’ils se comprennent mieux.
En résumé, une lecture agréable et une belle découverte.
September 30, 2018
This was fun and smart and sexy and satisfying. I really appreciated that it exists in a contemporary world where the characters are aware and educated and thoughtful about that world in which they live without the real world intruding so heavily as to take away from the escapism that a lot of us turn to in romances. Josh and Patrick are both charming and engaging narrators and I liked the time that we spent with the secondary characters as well. Such a lovely read and I can't wait to see more from the author (a very sweet friend of mine!) under this name or any other she might venture out with!
August 21, 2018
Juste GENIAL ! drôle, pétillant, léger et en même temps profond et émouvant. Et purée que j'ai aimé toutes les références ! Bref j'ai adoré !!!
August 26, 2018
J'ai adoré, c'était super cute. Une petite pépite pour une première incursion de la romance queer.
May 8, 2019
Une histoire mignonne à 2 voix. La ville de San Francisco est également un des personnages de ce roman qui donne envie de la découvrir!
July 15, 2020
The best this about this book is the relationship Patrick ends up having with his parents.
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