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True Lover's Stories #1
Bishop: A True Lover's Story
At only thirty-two, Bishop Stockley has lived a hard-knock life. His gang was his family, the streets his home. Until the crew he’d always called his brothers betrayed him. After doing five years in a federal prison, Bishop is back at his dad’s trailer and working for his landscaping company, thrust into a legit world where he’s no longer the alpha—a world where a criminal record is the least of his disadvantages, because Bishop can’t read or write. Illiteracy had never been an obstacle for him on the streets, he didn’t need to know how to read Moby Dick to survive, he needed to know how to read people… and that was a hustle he’d learned hard and fast. Now, he had to change his life.Bishop’s only support system was a young, inexperienced dad who’d insisted he call him Mike all their life—since they looked more like brothers than father and son. And his hot-tempered, childhood, best friend from ’juvie, Trent. Bishop already had the deck stacked against him, but he wasn’t afraid of hard work to change his situation, and he did want to change. Especially after he encountered Edison Scala, a kind-spirited office manager who didn’t hesitate to come to his defense… a man that saw past Bishop’s grass-stained coveralls. A man who wasn’t intimidated by his stern features and his silence.Edison hadn’t grown up the way most of his peers had. He’d been raised by a single father who’d owned an old-fashioned barber shop where Edison was taught how to not only shave with a straight razor, and shine shoes, but also how to treat others, to not judge, to be a gentleman, to be respectful and speak without profanity. But, the biggest lesson he’d learned, was to always be himself. His lack of friends and a social life wasn’t his fault. No matter how much weight he gained, no matter how many times his staff called him a square, Edison did not need to change.Bishop knew Edison was off-limits. He’d made personal vows to himself when he was released from prison, ones that he never intended to break. But, when Edison asked him about providing landscaping services at his home, there was no way he could refuse. He hadn’t expected Edison to feed him, praise him, encourage him, and look at him the way he did—as if Bishop was somebody. Mike and Trent warned him not to mix business with pleasure and he didn’t intend to. No multiple pairings. No cliffhangers. Ends with a very, very HFN. This book is a M/M contemporary romance, a hardened man’s struggle to find real love. There are no police chases or doors being kicked in, in this one. But, don’t worry. Bishop is still intense enough to keep you on the edge.
438 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2019
565 people are currently reading
1668 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Via
47 books3,228 followersA.E. Via is an author in the beautiful gay romance genre and also founder and owner of Via Star Wings Books. Her writing embodies everything from hopelessly romantic to spicy to scandalous. Her stories often include intriguing edges and twists that take readers to new, thought-provoking depths.
When she's not clicking away at her laptop, she devotes herself to her family--a husband and four children.
Adrienne Via has tons of more stories to tell, but she really would like to hear yours. Via Star Wings Books is currently accepting submissions for established and aspiring LGBTQ authors. I've contracted and successfully published a couple authors - whose information can be found on my website - who can tell you that my passion is giving other writer's stories the love and care it deserves so it could be a gift to another. Visit my site to learn more!
Go to A.E. Via's official website http://authoraevia.com for more detailed information on how to contact her, follow her, or a sneak peak on upcoming work, free reads, VSWB submissions, and where she'll appear next.
When she's not clicking away at her laptop, she devotes herself to her family--a husband and four children.
Adrienne Via has tons of more stories to tell, but she really would like to hear yours. Via Star Wings Books is currently accepting submissions for established and aspiring LGBTQ authors. I've contracted and successfully published a couple authors - whose information can be found on my website - who can tell you that my passion is giving other writer's stories the love and care it deserves so it could be a gift to another. Visit my site to learn more!
Go to A.E. Via's official website http://authoraevia.com for more detailed information on how to contact her, follow her, or a sneak peak on upcoming work, free reads, VSWB submissions, and where she'll appear next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 456 reviews
April 1, 2020
Audio...4.5 stars...Yup I did enjoy Mr. Tor Thom's performance. I think I am now a fan. I don't know how it happened but I'm going with it. 😍❤
Story...4.5 stars
For the most part this was classic Via OTT goodness. What differed was the heat level.
Um...Ms. Via? What happened? I mean...tease much? My goodness talk about taking it slooooowwww. I am soooo not a fan of slooooowwww. I also find it hard to believe that a 26 year old virgin and a man recently released from jail and celebrate for 5.5 years would take things that slooooowwww when they are so into each other. I take back my past complaints. Please bring back the heat. I'd rather too much than not enough 😬
I still enjoyed the heck out of Bishop and Edison's story though. Especially since Edison wasn't the perfect bodied hero that's become the norm in romance. He struggled with weight issues.
As for the ending, so not cool. It was abrupt. I need book 2 stat! There are several side characters that are in need of a story. Starting with wise ass Trent. I'm waiting, Ms. Via.
Story...4.5 stars
For the most part this was classic Via OTT goodness. What differed was the heat level.
Um...Ms. Via? What happened? I mean...tease much? My goodness talk about taking it slooooowwww. I am soooo not a fan of slooooowwww. I also find it hard to believe that a 26 year old virgin and a man recently released from jail and celebrate for 5.5 years would take things that slooooowwww when they are so into each other. I take back my past complaints. Please bring back the heat. I'd rather too much than not enough 😬
I still enjoyed the heck out of Bishop and Edison's story though. Especially since Edison wasn't the perfect bodied hero that's become the norm in romance. He struggled with weight issues.
As for the ending, so not cool. It was abrupt. I need book 2 stat! There are several side characters that are in need of a story. Starting with wise ass Trent. I'm waiting, Ms. Via.
August 12, 2024
Things I loved:
-Bishop and his dad working on their relationship, like literally, the fishing and bowling scenes? GTFO of here, was so cute.
-Bishop's dad calling him “lil homie” 🥹
-Edison loving to cook for others, I feel this trait SO ENDEARING, I love me a cooking human as I hate cooking 💅🏼
-Bishop and Trent’s friendship, so cute that Trent will go anywhere bishop needs to read things to him 🥹
-Bishop calling Edison handsome 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖 more books where men call each other handsome so I can swoon immediately please
-Bishop worshipping Edison and all his curves the way we all deserve to be worshipped
-Edison and bishop in general
-Edison sticking up for himself
Things I disliked:
-The story could sometimes go really slow, it slightly dragged in spots but still enjoyable
-The fact Bishop never apologised for flipping out over ‘the tie incident” ANYONE WHO KNOWS, KNOWS I LOVE TO COMPLAIN WHEN MEN GIVE PISS WEAK APOLOGIESSSSSS IT MAKES ME CRAZY, CRAWL THROUGH GLASS TO PROVE YOUR WORTH OR DIE, it’s not hard ☺️☺️
-The narration of this audio, at first it really bothered me, but once the story was going, I settled into a simmer of hatred for the voice that felt reasonable and acceptable.
Things I hated:
-Skylar, delusional ass motherfucker deserved WAY more than what he got. He's a real "hit him with your car" and then "oops, tehe, didn't see you there" situation waiting to happen.
-The endearment/cutesy name of ”honey” a new ick was unlocked here today 💀
I’m definitely keen for his besties gay/bi awakening in book 2????
LIFE NEEDS MORE MEN CALLING EACHOTHER HANDSOME, as this will NEVER not be a highlight in a book for me.
I think if I were a man, and someone called me handsome, I'd simply pass away. 💀
-Bishop and his dad working on their relationship, like literally, the fishing and bowling scenes? GTFO of here, was so cute.
-Bishop's dad calling him “lil homie” 🥹
-Edison loving to cook for others, I feel this trait SO ENDEARING, I love me a cooking human as I hate cooking 💅🏼
-Bishop and Trent’s friendship, so cute that Trent will go anywhere bishop needs to read things to him 🥹
-Bishop calling Edison handsome 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖 more books where men call each other handsome so I can swoon immediately please
-Bishop worshipping Edison and all his curves the way we all deserve to be worshipped
-Edison and bishop in general
-Edison sticking up for himself
Things I disliked:
-The story could sometimes go really slow, it slightly dragged in spots but still enjoyable
-The fact Bishop never apologised for flipping out over ‘the tie incident” ANYONE WHO KNOWS, KNOWS I LOVE TO COMPLAIN WHEN MEN GIVE PISS WEAK APOLOGIESSSSSS IT MAKES ME CRAZY, CRAWL THROUGH GLASS TO PROVE YOUR WORTH OR DIE, it’s not hard ☺️☺️
-The narration of this audio, at first it really bothered me, but once the story was going, I settled into a simmer of hatred for the voice that felt reasonable and acceptable.
Things I hated:
-Skylar, delusional ass motherfucker deserved WAY more than what he got. He's a real "hit him with your car" and then "oops, tehe, didn't see you there" situation waiting to happen.
-The endearment/cutesy name of ”honey” a new ick was unlocked here today 💀
I’m definitely keen for his besties gay/bi awakening in book 2????
LIFE NEEDS MORE MEN CALLING EACHOTHER HANDSOME, as this will NEVER not be a highlight in a book for me.
I think if I were a man, and someone called me handsome, I'd simply pass away. 💀
December 28, 2022
This has to be one of the sweetest Via stories, it was also the slowest of slow burns I’ve ever read.
Narrated by Tor Thom, his baritone was perfect for these two. Not to mention the various additional side characters.
✔️Low drama
✔️Fabulous side characters
✔️Deep heart to heart conversations
✔️Virgin hero
✔️Slooooow burn
Bishop (32) has been in federal prison for five years. Now out and focusing on his future, he is working for his dad’s landscaping company with his best friend Trent. Bishop and his dad, Mike have only 15 year between them. I loved their unique dad/son relationship. Mike was more a buddy than a parental figure. He never encouraged Bishop to attend school, instead allowing him to roam the streets with a gang. Because of this, Bishop is unable to read or write.
Edison (26) is an old soul. He is very proper, never curses, and is always sharply dressed. He’s recently lost over 100 pounds after his father passed. He is an office manager for an attorney office. He loves to read, spending his evenings inhaling the latest thriller or spy novel. His office hires Mike’s company to work on their landscaping.
Bishop and Edison are so flipping adorable. Complete opposites in every way, size, demeanor, upbringing, education, but not in heart. These two have SO MUCH HEART. This was a very different Via story than I’m used to reading, but I still enjoyed it.
I only wish that Bishop would have told Edison about his illiteracy sooner in the story. If felt like everything was put on hold until 99% in.
Narrated by Tor Thom, his baritone was perfect for these two. Not to mention the various additional side characters.
✔️Low drama
✔️Fabulous side characters
✔️Deep heart to heart conversations
✔️Virgin hero
✔️Slooooow burn
Bishop (32) has been in federal prison for five years. Now out and focusing on his future, he is working for his dad’s landscaping company with his best friend Trent. Bishop and his dad, Mike have only 15 year between them. I loved their unique dad/son relationship. Mike was more a buddy than a parental figure. He never encouraged Bishop to attend school, instead allowing him to roam the streets with a gang. Because of this, Bishop is unable to read or write.
Edison (26) is an old soul. He is very proper, never curses, and is always sharply dressed. He’s recently lost over 100 pounds after his father passed. He is an office manager for an attorney office. He loves to read, spending his evenings inhaling the latest thriller or spy novel. His office hires Mike’s company to work on their landscaping.
Bishop and Edison are so flipping adorable. Complete opposites in every way, size, demeanor, upbringing, education, but not in heart. These two have SO MUCH HEART. This was a very different Via story than I’m used to reading, but I still enjoyed it.
I only wish that Bishop would have told Edison about his illiteracy sooner in the story. If felt like everything was put on hold until 99% in.
August 9, 2020
It took me ages to finish this I wonder why...
First of all, this is really a solid good mm romance between unlikely characters. Almost top tier to me especially when both of them spend most of their nights reading thrillers together. I love also how the characters are your unusual heroes. Edison Scala considers himself as an overweight and workaholic loser until he meets Bishop. On the other hand, Bishop Stockley, a former gang leader, is now an ex convict. But that is just the tip of the ice berg for Bishop, there's more to all that brooding eyes and pure muscle. Needless to say in the romance department with the exclusion of the steamy parts, I couldn't wish for a better romance. It was homey. It was domestic. The fact that these two men keep on bringing each other up despite everything else is just *chef kiss*.
The only thing that I didn't liked was that it felt dragged . The main conflict between the parties was only tackled and resolved in the end. 400 pages and they only talked the real issue in the end. I was like 'hmmm okay.' Excited for the sequel! I see you now, A.E. Via. I see you.
First of all, this is really a solid good mm romance between unlikely characters. Almost top tier to me especially when both of them spend most of their nights reading thrillers together. I love also how the characters are your unusual heroes. Edison Scala considers himself as an overweight and workaholic loser until he meets Bishop. On the other hand, Bishop Stockley, a former gang leader, is now an ex convict. But that is just the tip of the ice berg for Bishop, there's more to all that brooding eyes and pure muscle. Needless to say in the romance department with the exclusion of the steamy parts, I couldn't wish for a better romance. It was homey. It was domestic. The fact that these two men keep on bringing each other up despite everything else is just *chef kiss*.
The only thing that I didn't liked was that it felt dragged . The main conflict between the parties was only tackled and resolved in the end. 400 pages and they only talked the real issue in the end. I was like 'hmmm okay.' Excited for the sequel! I see you now, A.E. Via. I see you.
October 30, 2023
4/5
Why was this book so unexpectedly cute and wholesome? It was my first book from A.E. Via and definitely not my last, because I adore this book. The book can easily be consider as a slow-burn, adding to that the book is 450 pages long, it might be not for everyone, but for me the whole anticipating was totally worth it. There are tons of romantic, heartwarming moments which made me blush and 'aww' a lot of times, so it’s a definitely a book worth reading.
Honestly, if I had to choose which one of the two main characters was my favorite I would probably say Bishop. I know this man was an ex-con, but he was a walking perfection. He was nothing like any characters I had ever read which were in jail, he was patient, lovable, sweet, gentle, caring and would do anything for the people he loves. He wanted to give Bishop a world, even though he was insecure of his lack of education, which made him an illiterate. His love for Bishop was so pure and beautiful, every time he was calling him ‘handsome' and compliment him I wanted to cry for how cute it was.
This man was also hot and respectful. What can you possibly want more?
Ughh, so hot.
I love reading books with plus size heroines and heroes, because too many books have these perfect-looking main characters with six-packs and a slim waists. Edison was described as chubby, but I love that the book didn't focus on him wanting to lose weight or hating himself for how he looks. He was such a cutie, but if he needed to he could defend and stand for himself. Most importantly, he was a book lover, and the moments when he sat with Bishop and read a book to him were the most precious. He did the whole Carly Rae Jepsen "Call Me Maybe" thing when he was watching Bishop working in his garden
and I would do that too, if I saw hot, tall, muscular, glistening with sweat men, who is pretty much obsessed with me.
Despite loving this book, I feel like it could easily be shorter. The beginning was a bit too long for my liking, and towards the end there was the final drama with Skylar, which I hoped would happen sooner. I will definitely continue the series, even though I think no one will beat Bishop and Eddie.
Why was this book so unexpectedly cute and wholesome? It was my first book from A.E. Via and definitely not my last, because I adore this book. The book can easily be consider as a slow-burn, adding to that the book is 450 pages long, it might be not for everyone, but for me the whole anticipating was totally worth it. There are tons of romantic, heartwarming moments which made me blush and 'aww' a lot of times, so it’s a definitely a book worth reading.
Honestly, if I had to choose which one of the two main characters was my favorite I would probably say Bishop. I know this man was an ex-con, but he was a walking perfection. He was nothing like any characters I had ever read which were in jail, he was patient, lovable, sweet, gentle, caring and would do anything for the people he loves. He wanted to give Bishop a world, even though he was insecure of his lack of education, which made him an illiterate. His love for Bishop was so pure and beautiful, every time he was calling him ‘handsome' and compliment him I wanted to cry for how cute it was.
"Why’d you bring me flowers?”
Bishop shrugged. “Because it’s Monday? Because I thought they were as sexy as you? Because I had the day off. Because I was thinking about you.” Bishop caressed Edison’s cheek. “Do I really need a reason?”
“Look. There’s still some shit I’m working on with myself that had me reacting the way I did last night. I’ve never cared about being good enough for anyone… but… I want to be… for you.”
This man was also hot and respectful. What can you possibly want more?
"Tell me,” Bishop said, reaching around to graze his palm over Edison’s ass. “How do you feel about public affection?”
Edison’s cheeks turned a sexy shade of pink. “Well, I’ve never had to answer that question before but I suppose I’d be fine with it.”
“Good,” Bishop murmured. “Because I’m not shy.”
“You drive that long to eat dinner at my house,” Edison said cheekily.
“I’d drive even further than that for a taste of you.”
"Bishop leaned down and kissed him again in front of Skylar. “I’ll see you later, handsome.”
Ughh, so hot.
I love reading books with plus size heroines and heroes, because too many books have these perfect-looking main characters with six-packs and a slim waists. Edison was described as chubby, but I love that the book didn't focus on him wanting to lose weight or hating himself for how he looks. He was such a cutie, but if he needed to he could defend and stand for himself. Most importantly, he was a book lover, and the moments when he sat with Bishop and read a book to him were the most precious. He did the whole Carly Rae Jepsen "Call Me Maybe" thing when he was watching Bishop working in his garden
and I would do that too, if I saw hot, tall, muscular, glistening with sweat men, who is pretty much obsessed with me.
Despite loving this book, I feel like it could easily be shorter. The beginning was a bit too long for my liking, and towards the end there was the final drama with Skylar, which I hoped would happen sooner. I will definitely continue the series, even though I think no one will beat Bishop and Eddie.
October 7, 2019
I really liked this when I started. I loved both Bishop and Edison and there was enough hurt/comfort to make me very happy. But then it all slowly went downhill when Bishop’s issue became an ISSUE instead of just this thing that could have all been prevented with a good talk.
Bishop hasn’t had the best childhood. His father Mike was only 15 when he had him and even though Mike loved Bishop, he wasn’t a very good father.
Bishop dropped out of school at a young age and joined a gang. Eventually someone set him and his best friend Trent up, and they both spend 5 years in jail.
After those 5 years Bishop wants to turn his life around. His father Mike is finally ready to be a real father and Bishop and Trent start working for Mike’s landscaping company. And even though Bishop is a genius with designing, he still feels dump because he is illiterate.
When Bishop meets Edison, he is sure a man like Edison could never want him. Edison is smart, has a good job, and is very handsome.
Edison himself doesn’t see himself the same way. He knows he is somewhat overweight and awkward around people. His staff doesn’t like him, and he is sure the handsome man doing the landscaping for the company he works for is not interested in someone like him.
But when Bishop offers to help Edison out with his overgrown garden, Bishop makes it clear he is interested in more than Edison’s yard.
But even though the two just click and their relationship seems to work somehow, Bishop knows that Edison will leave him as soon as he finds out how dumb Bishop really is….
While I liked both these guys, Bishop drove me crazy. He kept postponing telling Edison about him not being able to read. It was like this black cloud hanging over their heads this entire book. I knew Edison wouldn’t mind at all, but I just wanted them to have an open conversation about it.
But of course there had to be this thing where the villain of the story outed Bishop in a very dramatic way. I could see it coming a mile away and I didn’t like it.
The villain, Skylar, a co-worker of Edison, was also way over the top for me to believe in. He was more a caricature than a realistic book character. Especially because Edison was his boss. He didn’t care, and Edison never really acted like he was Skylar’s boss either.
So while I liked the first half, the second half was mostly frustrating for me because Bishop kept hiding his illiteracy and that created an opportunity for the bad guy to embarrass him in front of lots of people. It could have all been solved with one simple conversation…..
Bishop hasn’t had the best childhood. His father Mike was only 15 when he had him and even though Mike loved Bishop, he wasn’t a very good father.
Bishop dropped out of school at a young age and joined a gang. Eventually someone set him and his best friend Trent up, and they both spend 5 years in jail.
After those 5 years Bishop wants to turn his life around. His father Mike is finally ready to be a real father and Bishop and Trent start working for Mike’s landscaping company. And even though Bishop is a genius with designing, he still feels dump because he is illiterate.
When Bishop meets Edison, he is sure a man like Edison could never want him. Edison is smart, has a good job, and is very handsome.
Edison himself doesn’t see himself the same way. He knows he is somewhat overweight and awkward around people. His staff doesn’t like him, and he is sure the handsome man doing the landscaping for the company he works for is not interested in someone like him.
But when Bishop offers to help Edison out with his overgrown garden, Bishop makes it clear he is interested in more than Edison’s yard.
But even though the two just click and their relationship seems to work somehow, Bishop knows that Edison will leave him as soon as he finds out how dumb Bishop really is….
While I liked both these guys, Bishop drove me crazy. He kept postponing telling Edison about him not being able to read. It was like this black cloud hanging over their heads this entire book. I knew Edison wouldn’t mind at all, but I just wanted them to have an open conversation about it.
But of course there had to be this thing where the villain of the story outed Bishop in a very dramatic way. I could see it coming a mile away and I didn’t like it.
The villain, Skylar, a co-worker of Edison, was also way over the top for me to believe in. He was more a caricature than a realistic book character. Especially because Edison was his boss. He didn’t care, and Edison never really acted like he was Skylar’s boss either.
So while I liked the first half, the second half was mostly frustrating for me because Bishop kept hiding his illiteracy and that created an opportunity for the bad guy to embarrass him in front of lots of people. It could have all been solved with one simple conversation…..
June 28, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
This one hooked me from the very beginning. The way the writer sucked you into Edison’s life, how she showed you how sad his life could be, but that he made the best of it. It both angered and made me sad that he needed to build that thick skin because he’s such a lovely soul.
Then you have Bishop who had made so many wrong choices in his life. But really what choice did he have? With the way he grew up it’s like he made the best of a shit situation. The fact that he made the choice to turn his life around tells you a lot about his character.
Then you get to his illiteracy and damn that just broke my heart. How embarrassed he was by his shortcomings.
This was definitely a slow burn, but it was the sweetest kind. Their relationship developed realistically and each character grew because of each other.
Edison gave Bishop a reason to try harder to improve his shortcomings, even though Edison wholly accepted him for who he is. And Bishop made Eddie comfortable in his own skin, gave him the courage to be proud of the man he is.
I kinda adored that Edison very much resembled the perfect 50’s housewife. Seriously they were so sweet together, it’s the kind of hallmark relationship you dream of.
This is my first book with a chubby guy and I freaking loved how much Bishop desired everything about Eddie. Honestly it was hot as hell.
Even though it took a minute, the steam was so good. These two had major chemistry and they burned up the sheets.
Lastly we’re given a real slimeball to despise in Skylar. God, I always hated that name. I feel like all Skylars should be douchebags. And this asshole certainly lived up to his name every step of the way. He did everything he could to fuck it up for my boys.
Maybe it only happens in fiction but sometimes nice guys don’t always finish last.
This one hooked me from the very beginning. The way the writer sucked you into Edison’s life, how she showed you how sad his life could be, but that he made the best of it. It both angered and made me sad that he needed to build that thick skin because he’s such a lovely soul.
Then you have Bishop who had made so many wrong choices in his life. But really what choice did he have? With the way he grew up it’s like he made the best of a shit situation. The fact that he made the choice to turn his life around tells you a lot about his character.
Then you get to his illiteracy and damn that just broke my heart. How embarrassed he was by his shortcomings.
This was definitely a slow burn, but it was the sweetest kind. Their relationship developed realistically and each character grew because of each other.
Edison gave Bishop a reason to try harder to improve his shortcomings, even though Edison wholly accepted him for who he is. And Bishop made Eddie comfortable in his own skin, gave him the courage to be proud of the man he is.
I kinda adored that Edison very much resembled the perfect 50’s housewife. Seriously they were so sweet together, it’s the kind of hallmark relationship you dream of.
This is my first book with a chubby guy and I freaking loved how much Bishop desired everything about Eddie. Honestly it was hot as hell.
Even though it took a minute, the steam was so good. These two had major chemistry and they burned up the sheets.
Lastly we’re given a real slimeball to despise in Skylar. God, I always hated that name. I feel like all Skylars should be douchebags. And this asshole certainly lived up to his name every step of the way. He did everything he could to fuck it up for my boys.
Maybe it only happens in fiction but sometimes nice guys don’t always finish last.
August 22, 2022
This is my, I dunno, 15th slowburn of the year. AM I POSSESSED????????
😭😭😭🙇🙇🙇🙇🙏🙏🙏
I feel like I liked this book but I also feel like admitting that would be a BETRAYAL to the origin makings of Mariam the Clown with is, 2% plot and 98% smut.
🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡
Y'all, this was 400 pages of slow burn. I can't believe I read it. I feel like jumping the anxiety out of skin!
🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡
Like the characters TOOK FOREVER to meet holy fuck, I dunno, 10 chapters into the story????
🤡🤡🤡🤡
Okay, I know I'm being dramatic, NOT SORRY AT ALL, even though there was no... well, 🍆🍑 (I feel like a kid typing that 😌🥹) there was plenty of OTHER happenings that well, SERVED ITS PURPOSE because I didn't loose my shit reading 400 pages of slowburn.
FOUR HUNDRED PAGES!
(I feel like emery right now, my entire body is jiggling and my mind is zapping a mile a second, send help BESTIE)
but despite it how long it is, I really appreciated it because there was a lot of details that were transcribe and took it's time to relay. There was no rush to relay information in a info dumb and we got to see the characters REAL TIME reaction and befuddles and struggles and joy and all that jazz of sickening life.
And book two is about TRENT and the prisoner dude??????? 😲😲😲😲😲 YES!!! (I saw someone saying they hated Trent and I'm like 😃 HOW DARE U 😃)
If someone has read book 2, PUHLEASE 😩😩😩 let this whore know if book 2 has MORE 🍑🍆 SMUT.
(yes I know should grow up)
Also, is it JUST ME or is my clowny ass delusional looking at this cover and thinking it was PARANORMAL ROMANCE???
😭😭😭🙇🙇🙇🙇🙏🙏🙏
I feel like I liked this book but I also feel like admitting that would be a BETRAYAL to the origin makings of Mariam the Clown with is, 2% plot and 98% smut.
🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡
Y'all, this was 400 pages of slow burn. I can't believe I read it. I feel like jumping the anxiety out of skin!
🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡
Like the characters TOOK FOREVER to meet holy fuck, I dunno, 10 chapters into the story????
🤡🤡🤡🤡
“I always wanna do right by you, Eddie.”
Okay, I know I'm being dramatic, NOT SORRY AT ALL, even though there was no... well, 🍆🍑 (I feel like a kid typing that 😌🥹) there was plenty of OTHER happenings that well, SERVED ITS PURPOSE because I didn't loose my shit reading 400 pages of slowburn.
FOUR HUNDRED PAGES!
(I feel like emery right now, my entire body is jiggling and my mind is zapping a mile a second, send help BESTIE)
but despite it how long it is, I really appreciated it because there was a lot of details that were transcribe and took it's time to relay. There was no rush to relay information in a info dumb and we got to see the characters REAL TIME reaction and befuddles and struggles and joy and all that jazz of sickening life.
And book two is about TRENT and the prisoner dude??????? 😲😲😲😲😲 YES!!! (I saw someone saying they hated Trent and I'm like 😃 HOW DARE U 😃)
If someone has read book 2, PUHLEASE 😩😩😩 let this whore know if book 2 has MORE 🍑🍆 SMUT.
(yes I know should grow up)
Also, is it JUST ME or is my clowny ass delusional looking at this cover and thinking it was PARANORMAL ROMANCE???
He wrapped his arm around Edison’s neck and whispered in his ear, “It’s my fantasy to make out in a bookstore.”
Edison looked up at him and chuckled quietly, “I think that’s every book nerd’s fantasy.”
“True.”
September 21, 2025
Rating: 3.80
⭐️
I've heard about Bishop last year if I'm not mistaken, and I remember being intrigued by the potential relationship between an ex-convict and a sweet man.
So, I decided to give it a shot, and I wasn’t at all disappointed.
This book was great, with an exceptional cast of main characters and side-characters. The side relationships were well developed by the author. Yes, the romance between the main characters, Bishop Stockley and Edison Scala, was sweet and adorable, but I need to acknowledge Bishop’s bond with his father, Mike, and his friendship with Trent. It’s very rare for me to find romances where those types of relationships are developed in a genuine way. The support Bishop had from them was truly remarkable, and I appreciated how Bishop’s father was working to repair their relationship. Mike was fifteen when he had Bishop, which led to them acting more like friends during Bishop’s childhood. It was nice to read their moments together.
The main characters dealt with different insecurities. Edison had issues with his body [he’s a plus-size character], and Bishop cannot read. Both of them helped each other felt more secure in themselves. Bishop literally adored Edison’s mind and his body, which made me swoon and smile like a madwoman. And unknowingly, Edison was very patient and never pressured Bishop in anything [reading his books to him for example]. I was very fond of their dynamic. Bishop called Edison ‘handsome’, complimented him in every chance, and gifted him flowers occasionally.
Bishop and Edison’s love story is a slow-burn, with very few spicy scenes. In fact, if you’re looking for scorching hot smut, this book isn’t the one for you. Mind you, the characters were very horny. But what can I say? After being in prison for five-six years, Bishop completely changed. The epitome of the bad boy is looking for a true relationship, one based on feelings, and not just a physical one. Which was a great surprise, honestly. He has been betrayed in the past by his ex-boyfriend, and this times, he’s looking for a trustworthy partner.
It’s also a slow-burn because both Bishop and Edison met each other at the 20% mark. So, yeah. You need to have patience with the characters. For the first 20% of this book, we’re mainly following Bishop navigating his new life since his release. He’s working as a landscaper for his father’s company, and one of their contracts happens to be taking care of the lawn of Edison’s workplace.
Despite being an enjoyable read, I was frustrated many times, because of some of the side-characters, like Skylar [Edison’s coworker] and Royce [Bishop’s ex-boyfriend]. Their presence added drama, either heartbreaking or totally over-the-top.
I mentioned that at the beginning we’re following Bishop navigating his new life. In those chapters, we also got some scenes between Bishop and his ex-boyfriend Royce [yeah, the one who betrayed him]. Thankfully, nothing physical happened between them. However, and that’s when I was the most frustrated, Bishop was willing to give Royce another chance, which was a stupid decision. The guy insulted you, and made fun of you, and you want to see him? Hell, no! Well, I did understand where he was coming from, but still.
Nonetheless, that helped him get his closure with Royce, which was very satisfying to read. After those excruciating scenes, there’s no other people for Bishop. It's a completely safe story, where the main characters only had eyes for each other. Edison was a virgin, and Bishop has been celibate for six years.
Their major conflicts came from Edison’s coworker, Skylar. That guy was batshit insane [not in a sexy way], a delusional prick, and a bully! He needed to be fired from the very beginning. When Edison finally stood up for himself, it was also very satisfying.
I also found Bishop not very great at communication; Edison was more capable in that department. There’s a scene in which Bishop reacted too strongly for my liking [the tie accident], and all Edison got was a weak apology. In my opinion, Edison wasn’t in the wrong despite being a little clueless.
Call me horny, but I didn’t like that the first time they have penetrative sex happened in the very last chapter. While I loved that neither of them rushed their intimacy, I do think it shouldn’t have happened that late.
Overall, I didn’t have any other issues with this book. Bishop and Edison were a sweet and loving couple.
““You look really handsome today, Edison.”
Those few simple words eased over Edison’s mind like a comforting caress, then slid down his spine. He wanted to record Bishop saying that statement in that sexy voice and replay it for his psyche all day— anytime someone tried to make him feel less than. Because an amazingly, fine specimen of a man like Bishop thought he was handsome.”
I've heard about Bishop last year if I'm not mistaken, and I remember being intrigued by the potential relationship between an ex-convict and a sweet man.
So, I decided to give it a shot, and I wasn’t at all disappointed.
This book was great, with an exceptional cast of main characters and side-characters. The side relationships were well developed by the author. Yes, the romance between the main characters, Bishop Stockley and Edison Scala, was sweet and adorable, but I need to acknowledge Bishop’s bond with his father, Mike, and his friendship with Trent. It’s very rare for me to find romances where those types of relationships are developed in a genuine way. The support Bishop had from them was truly remarkable, and I appreciated how Bishop’s father was working to repair their relationship. Mike was fifteen when he had Bishop, which led to them acting more like friends during Bishop’s childhood. It was nice to read their moments together.
The main characters dealt with different insecurities. Edison had issues with his body [he’s a plus-size character], and Bishop cannot read. Both of them helped each other felt more secure in themselves. Bishop literally adored Edison’s mind and his body, which made me swoon and smile like a madwoman. And unknowingly, Edison was very patient and never pressured Bishop in anything [reading his books to him for example]. I was very fond of their dynamic. Bishop called Edison ‘handsome’, complimented him in every chance, and gifted him flowers occasionally.
“If my hands weren’t so dirty, I’d touch your handsome face. Look at me, Edison.”
Bishop and Edison’s love story is a slow-burn, with very few spicy scenes. In fact, if you’re looking for scorching hot smut, this book isn’t the one for you. Mind you, the characters were very horny. But what can I say? After being in prison for five-six years, Bishop completely changed. The epitome of the bad boy is looking for a true relationship, one based on feelings, and not just a physical one. Which was a great surprise, honestly. He has been betrayed in the past by his ex-boyfriend, and this times, he’s looking for a trustworthy partner.
It’s also a slow-burn because both Bishop and Edison met each other at the 20% mark. So, yeah. You need to have patience with the characters. For the first 20% of this book, we’re mainly following Bishop navigating his new life since his release. He’s working as a landscaper for his father’s company, and one of their contracts happens to be taking care of the lawn of Edison’s workplace.
"For the first time in his life he understood what being in a relationship meant, and what it felt like to find someone who reached every part of him."
Despite being an enjoyable read, I was frustrated many times, because of some of the side-characters, like Skylar [Edison’s coworker] and Royce [Bishop’s ex-boyfriend]. Their presence added drama, either heartbreaking or totally over-the-top.
I mentioned that at the beginning we’re following Bishop navigating his new life. In those chapters, we also got some scenes between Bishop and his ex-boyfriend Royce [yeah, the one who betrayed him]. Thankfully, nothing physical happened between them. However, and that’s when I was the most frustrated, Bishop was willing to give Royce another chance, which was a stupid decision. The guy insulted you, and made fun of you, and you want to see him? Hell, no! Well, I did understand where he was coming from, but still.
Nonetheless, that helped him get his closure with Royce, which was very satisfying to read. After those excruciating scenes, there’s no other people for Bishop. It's a completely safe story, where the main characters only had eyes for each other. Edison was a virgin, and Bishop has been celibate for six years.
Their major conflicts came from Edison’s coworker, Skylar. That guy was batshit insane [not in a sexy way], a delusional prick, and a bully! He needed to be fired from the very beginning. When Edison finally stood up for himself, it was also very satisfying.
I also found Bishop not very great at communication; Edison was more capable in that department. There’s a scene in which Bishop reacted too strongly for my liking [the tie accident], and all Edison got was a weak apology. In my opinion, Edison wasn’t in the wrong despite being a little clueless.
Call me horny, but I didn’t like that the first time they have penetrative sex happened in the very last chapter. While I loved that neither of them rushed their intimacy, I do think it shouldn’t have happened that late.
Overall, I didn’t have any other issues with this book. Bishop and Edison were a sweet and loving couple.
July 29, 2024
such a feel good book, i had a smile on my face most of the time and fought sleep listening to this book, though the ending felt abrupt. the narrator’s voice is so damn smooth, even though he pronounces it UGG, makes me laugh when he groans ‘fuck’ and doesn’t moan the moaning parts. #MyKindaSlowBurn which if you don’t know, it means: firstly, a simmering pace of mcs meeting, getting together, hea. secondly, kissing close to 50% and taking their time to being intimate. thirdly and most importantly, LOTS of sexual tension, flirting, dirty talking and touching etc. Plot & Characters you may read the blurb and i loved almost everyone, except the ahole ex and the ahole coworker GOD!!! can’t wait to go listen to the next two books, trent and mike’s stories, i hope they’re just as good because they are the best side characters here. as for the mcs, Bishop and Edison are now one of my favorite couples, they are so sweet and their relationship is so heartwarming i can’t get enough.
July 4, 2022
3*** stars
Mhm… my first mediocre read by A.E. Via.
But I liked the story and the characters anyway. If you’re interested in my thoughts on this, go read Lyn’s review. I copy hers.
*******
side note: (on the audio) - this was narrated by Thor Tom who I only knew so far from the „Heated Rivalry“ audio. And as I’ve listened to that like about a hundred times already it was soooo hard for me to NOT hear Ilya and Shane the whole time while listening to this book right here *lol
Mhm… my first mediocre read by A.E. Via.
But I liked the story and the characters anyway. If you’re interested in my thoughts on this, go read Lyn’s review. I copy hers.
*******
side note: (on the audio) - this was narrated by Thor Tom who I only knew so far from the „Heated Rivalry“ audio. And as I’ve listened to that like about a hundred times already it was soooo hard for me to NOT hear Ilya and Shane the whole time while listening to this book right here *lol
August 11, 2020
OK, this is what Edison looks like, according to Bishop:
Soooo, kudos for tempting me with the cover, cuz DDDAAAAYYYYMMM... I LOVE it! Want to lick and squeeze and rub up and down all over it!
BUT.
While there were some demonstrations of alpha-ness by our lovely cover model - the big bad ex-con, illiterate, landscaping guru Bishop, it seemed, as 1 reader said, EXTREMELY FAR-FETCHED some of the restraint and sensitive - I wanna wait for love sex- that this man was willing to go thru...
Edison is even more unbelievable, but whatevs.
The build was realllllllyy slow, good in some ways, really FICTIONAL in others. I skipped a bunch to get to the sexy times which really only happened at the end and was like a non-event.
So, 3 stars, and not sure I'll be reading more of this author. Certainly not more of this couple.
Soooo, kudos for tempting me with the cover, cuz DDDAAAAYYYYMMM... I LOVE it! Want to lick and squeeze and rub up and down all over it!
BUT.
While there were some demonstrations of alpha-ness by our lovely cover model - the big bad ex-con, illiterate, landscaping guru Bishop, it seemed, as 1 reader said, EXTREMELY FAR-FETCHED some of the restraint and sensitive - I wanna wait for love sex- that this man was willing to go thru...
Edison is even more unbelievable, but whatevs.
The build was realllllllyy slow, good in some ways, really FICTIONAL in others. I skipped a bunch to get to the sexy times which really only happened at the end and was like a non-event.
So, 3 stars, and not sure I'll be reading more of this author. Certainly not more of this couple.
October 4, 2019
There are few things better than a strong, yet vulnerable, alpha man who's just trying to be a good man worthy of his love, and to see him treat the man he loves right.
I absolutely love when A.E. Via writes a hurt/comfort romance, because even though I love her more action-centric books, these quieter romances just really hit the spot.
Bishop and Edison may seem like opposites, but they are completely perfect for one another. It was a pleasure to read their story.
Dual POV, with lots of hurt/comfort/healing, plenty of heat after a long, slow burn, some angst and a little dirtbag who gets what he deserves, fantastic side characters, and a very happy ending.
I loved the characters, the story, the flow, and would recommend. I'm really happy to see this is going to be a series, and that Bishop's best friend, Trent, is going to star in the next installment. I'm looking forward to seeing what A.E. Via weaves for Trent and Wood's story.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Bishop provided by author in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
I absolutely love when A.E. Via writes a hurt/comfort romance, because even though I love her more action-centric books, these quieter romances just really hit the spot.
Bishop and Edison may seem like opposites, but they are completely perfect for one another. It was a pleasure to read their story.
Dual POV, with lots of hurt/comfort/healing, plenty of heat after a long, slow burn, some angst and a little dirtbag who gets what he deserves, fantastic side characters, and a very happy ending.
I loved the characters, the story, the flow, and would recommend. I'm really happy to see this is going to be a series, and that Bishop's best friend, Trent, is going to star in the next installment. I'm looking forward to seeing what A.E. Via weaves for Trent and Wood's story.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Bishop provided by author in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
May 24, 2020
Special thanks to Tantor Audio for the audio CD (that I lost... I have no forking clue where it went) in exchange for an honest review!
YES! YES! YESS!
I went into this with very low expectations (which seems to have improved my experience...) First of all, I didn't think this was a gay romance. I requested this a longggggggggg time ago so I might have known it was gay as of requesting it but I completely forgot by the time I started reading it.
Because of this, I was already excited from page one and things only got better because.... WE FINALLY HAD A MALE LOVE INTEREST WITH A REALISTIC BODY... Now, because I hate generalizations with a fiery passion, I need to say that there are definitely adult romances out there with a physically realistic male character but they are few and far between and I don't see them very often in straight romances and even less in gay romances.
So, I was ecstatic when I was introduced to Edison who was physically realistic. Now, I will admit that Edison was a little ridiculous as far as characters go. So was Bishop. They were both pretty unrealistic and cliche with Bishop being dark and brooding and Edison being naive and nerdy. But they were both indearing so I was able to look past it.
I liked the conflict that Bishop had to face. It was definitely unrealistic and I kept thinking There is absolutely no way it would go down like that in real life but it was enjoyable to read.
The sex scenes were okay... They were decently steamy and really sweet. Tor Throm was a decent narrator, too. It was admittedly strange whenever he said "F**k". There was just something about the way he said it that sounded... off. I don't know.
Overall, this book was surprisingly enjoyable and I definitely recommend giving it a try!
Bottom Line:
4 stars
Age Rating - [ R ]
Content Screening (Mild Spoilers)
Positive Messages (4/5) - [Honesty, Bravery, Not being ashamed of your own shortcomings, self love]
Violence (2/5) - [Brief fights]
Sex (4/5) - [Detailed sex scenes, Sexual themes, Kissing]
Language (3/5) - [F**k, C*ck, D*ck, Sh*t]
Drinking/Drugs (3/5) - [Alcohol]
Content and Trigger Warnings - Homophobia, Body shaming, Mild violence
Publication Date: September 27th, 2019
Publisher: Independent
Genre: Gay/Romance
------------
Review to come
------------
Currently reading this one. Thanks Tantor Audio for the audio file!
| Goodreads | Blog | Pinterest | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
YES! YES! YESS!
I went into this with very low expectations (which seems to have improved my experience...) First of all, I didn't think this was a gay romance. I requested this a longggggggggg time ago so I might have known it was gay as of requesting it but I completely forgot by the time I started reading it.
Because of this, I was already excited from page one and things only got better because.... WE FINALLY HAD A MALE LOVE INTEREST WITH A REALISTIC BODY... Now, because I hate generalizations with a fiery passion, I need to say that there are definitely adult romances out there with a physically realistic male character but they are few and far between and I don't see them very often in straight romances and even less in gay romances.
So, I was ecstatic when I was introduced to Edison who was physically realistic. Now, I will admit that Edison was a little ridiculous as far as characters go. So was Bishop. They were both pretty unrealistic and cliche with Bishop being dark and brooding and Edison being naive and nerdy. But they were both indearing so I was able to look past it.
I liked the conflict that Bishop had to face. It was definitely unrealistic and I kept thinking There is absolutely no way it would go down like that in real life but it was enjoyable to read.
The sex scenes were okay... They were decently steamy and really sweet. Tor Throm was a decent narrator, too. It was admittedly strange whenever he said "F**k". There was just something about the way he said it that sounded... off. I don't know.
Overall, this book was surprisingly enjoyable and I definitely recommend giving it a try!
Bottom Line:
4 stars
Age Rating - [ R ]
Content Screening (Mild Spoilers)
Positive Messages (4/5) - [Honesty, Bravery, Not being ashamed of your own shortcomings, self love]
Violence (2/5) - [Brief fights]
Sex (4/5) - [Detailed sex scenes, Sexual themes, Kissing]
Language (3/5) - [F**k, C*ck, D*ck, Sh*t]
Drinking/Drugs (3/5) - [Alcohol]
Content and Trigger Warnings - Homophobia, Body shaming, Mild violence
Publication Date: September 27th, 2019
Publisher: Independent
Genre: Gay/Romance
------------
Review to come
------------
Currently reading this one. Thanks Tantor Audio for the audio file!
| Goodreads | Blog | Pinterest | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
August 24, 2022
O how I enjoyed this book! It was perfect for the mood I'm in currently and I couldn't put it down once I began.
Bishop and Edison were perfect for each other and I loved the slow progression of their relationship. Edison was kind, selfless and Bishop was also awesome for how he treated Edison(who wasn't the usual ripped MC in romance books). I loved the way both of these characters were written and how the whole story progressed towards they getting their HEA/solid HFN.
My only issue with the story was how much they allowed Skylar to stir the pot. He should have been kicked in the nuts after the first stunt he tried to pull. Edison was sometimes too kind for his own good. I really wanted to wring Skylar's neck whenever his smug face came onto the page. As it was, he deserved to suffer more for all the harm he caused than the punishment he received. What an ass.
My favourite description of his behaviour was from Trent(who I also loved):
“… that was some foul-ass-underhanded-dick-headed-trickery that that Skylar-bitch pulled on you..." Lol!
O and I loved Mike as well.. his relationship with his son was funny and heartwarming in equal measure.
Bishop pfft’d. “Don’t be jealous, B,” Mike sing-songed.
“I’m not.”
“You are.”
Bishop scoffed. “And why the hell would I be jealous of you?”
Mike stood with his legs braced apart and his arms crossed over his barrel chest. “Because I’m hotter than you.”
“You’re dreaming.”
“I’m bigger than you.”
“I got you by a quarter inch.”
“My lover’s freakier than yours.”
“But she can’t cook to save her life.”
“I cut grass better than you.”
“You’re smoking dope if you think that.”
“My dick’s bigger than yours.”
Bishop flipped his dad off, “It was cold outside that day.” LOOOOOL! Those two cracked me up when they weren't making me say "Awwww"
I can actually say this is my favourite book I've read from this author and I do hope the next book in the series(Wood and Trent's) is just as great. Highly recommended!
Bishop and Edison were perfect for each other and I loved the slow progression of their relationship. Edison was kind, selfless and Bishop was also awesome for how he treated Edison(who wasn't the usual ripped MC in romance books). I loved the way both of these characters were written and how the whole story progressed towards they getting their HEA/solid HFN.
My only issue with the story was how much they allowed Skylar to stir the pot. He should have been kicked in the nuts after the first stunt he tried to pull. Edison was sometimes too kind for his own good. I really wanted to wring Skylar's neck whenever his smug face came onto the page. As it was, he deserved to suffer more for all the harm he caused than the punishment he received. What an ass.
My favourite description of his behaviour was from Trent(who I also loved):
“… that was some foul-ass-underhanded-dick-headed-trickery that that Skylar-bitch pulled on you..." Lol!
O and I loved Mike as well.. his relationship with his son was funny and heartwarming in equal measure.
Bishop pfft’d. “Don’t be jealous, B,” Mike sing-songed.
“I’m not.”
“You are.”
Bishop scoffed. “And why the hell would I be jealous of you?”
Mike stood with his legs braced apart and his arms crossed over his barrel chest. “Because I’m hotter than you.”
“You’re dreaming.”
“I’m bigger than you.”
“I got you by a quarter inch.”
“My lover’s freakier than yours.”
“But she can’t cook to save her life.”
“I cut grass better than you.”
“You’re smoking dope if you think that.”
“My dick’s bigger than yours.”
Bishop flipped his dad off, “It was cold outside that day.” LOOOOOL! Those two cracked me up when they weren't making me say "Awwww"
I can actually say this is my favourite book I've read from this author and I do hope the next book in the series(Wood and Trent's) is just as great. Highly recommended!
October 2, 2019
This was a sweet read and not the gritty style I expect from this author. While it was a bit slow to start it certainly found some pace once Edison & Bishop connected. Looking forward to Trents book for sure - he needs lots of TLC
October 29, 2019
I can’t quite decide on the star rating, so I give up; 5 stars for the overwhelming feels and the sex. The hot, messy, sweet, unpretentious sex. I love the ways the MCs found to enjoy each other, and I was completely sold on their emotional connection.
There was one relatively minor plot twist that I thought was a bit odd and overplayed for drama, but otherwise it was a smooth and relatively low-angst read given Bishop’s background in particular.
Bonus points for this book if you like superficially opposite lovers coming together and if you enjoy reading about sexual intimacy that’s amazing because of what’s going on in the characters’ heads.
It bears mentioning that I could not read this book in a public setting for fear of scandalizing passersby and small animals with an involuntary display of appreciation.
There was one relatively minor plot twist that I thought was a bit odd and overplayed for drama, but otherwise it was a smooth and relatively low-angst read given Bishop’s background in particular.
Bonus points for this book if you like superficially opposite lovers coming together and if you enjoy reading about sexual intimacy that’s amazing because of what’s going on in the characters’ heads.
It bears mentioning that I could not read this book in a public setting for fear of scandalizing passersby and small animals with an involuntary display of appreciation.
August 26, 2022
my favorite a.e via book, hands down …
October 21, 2019
It started right away with all the feelings, it touched me and I fell immediately in love.
Edison likes to take good care of himself, a few joys he has in life. He is lonely, with no real friends or a lover. It’s him and his kitchen, because besides being the boss at work, in private he loves to cook and enjoy the results. He is the nicest guy, has excellent taste, he’s kind, no harm towards others, polite and sadly people find a way to hurt him.
Bishop has a complicated relationship with his father. He has to call him Mike like a friend.
After a rough life on the streets, with gangs and now free after five years behind bars, he can work for his father’s landscaping company. The best part of the job is designing, he is good at it. When he got the opportunity to work at Edison’s home he didn’t think twice, he is smitten by the man. He couldn’t guess how Edison is the softest and kind balsam for his heart. Only, he has a past and a significant secret.
We get to meet Bishop’s best friend Trent and his father Mike. They are of great importance in this story. They are fun and wonderful. Edison is a lonely guy, luckily he got two lovely third-degree family members and sadly also some annoying colleagues.
We learn about Bishops and Edison’s life, past and present and what a life they have!
The way the story is developed is quite special, attention to specific things, like the interior of a nice warm home, the emotional facial expressions, little gestures, delicate emotions at just the right moments, using scent and timbre, which made this all into a precious read. I was thrilled both men weren’t flawless, it made them so real and approachable, all this was beautifully woven through this story.
The writing style was one with passion for humanity, all captivatingly written, it had the most comfortable pace. I loved this story immensely! The title of this book says A True Love Story and omg it was the best, my heart exploded at times such deep moving love there was. The development of the relationship from Bishop and Edison was in one word excellent! Bishop and Edison were so overwhelming special together, my heart yearned, I loved them so hard.
Highly recommended!
Edison likes to take good care of himself, a few joys he has in life. He is lonely, with no real friends or a lover. It’s him and his kitchen, because besides being the boss at work, in private he loves to cook and enjoy the results. He is the nicest guy, has excellent taste, he’s kind, no harm towards others, polite and sadly people find a way to hurt him.
Bishop has a complicated relationship with his father. He has to call him Mike like a friend.
After a rough life on the streets, with gangs and now free after five years behind bars, he can work for his father’s landscaping company. The best part of the job is designing, he is good at it. When he got the opportunity to work at Edison’s home he didn’t think twice, he is smitten by the man. He couldn’t guess how Edison is the softest and kind balsam for his heart. Only, he has a past and a significant secret.
We get to meet Bishop’s best friend Trent and his father Mike. They are of great importance in this story. They are fun and wonderful. Edison is a lonely guy, luckily he got two lovely third-degree family members and sadly also some annoying colleagues.
We learn about Bishops and Edison’s life, past and present and what a life they have!
The way the story is developed is quite special, attention to specific things, like the interior of a nice warm home, the emotional facial expressions, little gestures, delicate emotions at just the right moments, using scent and timbre, which made this all into a precious read. I was thrilled both men weren’t flawless, it made them so real and approachable, all this was beautifully woven through this story.
The writing style was one with passion for humanity, all captivatingly written, it had the most comfortable pace. I loved this story immensely! The title of this book says A True Love Story and omg it was the best, my heart exploded at times such deep moving love there was. The development of the relationship from Bishop and Edison was in one word excellent! Bishop and Edison were so overwhelming special together, my heart yearned, I loved them so hard.
Highly recommended!
August 8, 2022
3.5 stars
“He didn’t want to feel like this anymore. He didn’t want to be illiterate. He wanted to walk hand in hand into a bookstore with his guy and browse like everyone else. He was certain it sounded small and simple, but it was what he wanted.”
— ex-convict/executive manager
— hurt/comfort
— sweet, low angst
— slow burn
— losing the v-card
“He didn’t want to feel like this anymore. He didn’t want to be illiterate. He wanted to walk hand in hand into a bookstore with his guy and browse like everyone else. He was certain it sounded small and simple, but it was what he wanted.”
— ex-convict/executive manager
— hurt/comfort
— sweet, low angst
— slow burn
— losing the v-card
October 8, 2023
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
“Hold your head up, Edison,” Bishop said in a hushed rumble that Edison supposed was his version of a whisper. […] “With your head up, I can see you better,” Bishop rumbled, watching Edison as he backed away.
I’ve had this book on my TBR for aaaages, and I finally got to it. I’m glad I did, as I ended up loving it so much. I especially like Edison. He was simply a very lovely and endearing character. He’s also a plus size character, which I honestly often avoid reading, because of a lot of the themes popping up in those books can be triggering and difficult to read. This one had those themes as well. Edison is bullied by his coworkers (one awful one in particular), and he has horrible comments made about his body/looks and his eating habits, which was incredibly hard to read at times. What made it bearable, was how Bishop (the other MC) freaking adored Edison and his body. I never ever doubted his sincerity, and I think the author did a great job in making sure that it came through how attracted they were to each other. It was never ‘in spite of’ or ‘because of’. It just was.
It’s a longer book, and the slow burn with a building friendship and relationship was so right for these boys, who both had major insecurities about different things to work through. They were so good to each other though, and showed patience and kindness when they needed it. Bishop has had a very complicated and rough life up until this point (which I wouldn’t have minded being expanded on), and he’s working incredibly hard to turn things around.
“If my hands weren’t so dirty, I’d touch your handsome face. […]”
As mentioned, there is a lot of focus on food, bodies, and the teasing/bullying that Edison experiences. If you’re comfortable with that though, the love story in this is so sweet, and they both deserved to find someone good to spend their lives with.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Plus size MC
Ex con
Former gang member
Illiterate MC
Size difference
Strangers to friends to lovers
Class difference
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Fatphobia
Fatshaming
Bullying
Grief
Insecurities
Food-focused talk
Violent altercation
Explicit sexual content
Mentions of life in prison
Manipulative side character
Mentions of the death of a parent (off page, past)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: MC goes on ‘date’ before meeting the other MC (nothing happens between them). An ex tries to create drama later, as well as a coworker creating trouble throughout the book. The MCs only have eyes for each other.
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
“You look really handsome today, Edison.” Those few simple words eased over Edison’s mind like a comforting caress, then slid down his spine. He wanted to record Bishop saying that statement in that sexy voice and replay it for his psyche all day—anytime someone tried to make him feel less than. Because an amazingly, fine specimen of a man like Bishop thought he was handsome.
“Hold your head up, Edison,” Bishop said in a hushed rumble that Edison supposed was his version of a whisper. […] “With your head up, I can see you better,” Bishop rumbled, watching Edison as he backed away.
I’ve had this book on my TBR for aaaages, and I finally got to it. I’m glad I did, as I ended up loving it so much. I especially like Edison. He was simply a very lovely and endearing character. He’s also a plus size character, which I honestly often avoid reading, because of a lot of the themes popping up in those books can be triggering and difficult to read. This one had those themes as well. Edison is bullied by his coworkers (one awful one in particular), and he has horrible comments made about his body/looks and his eating habits, which was incredibly hard to read at times. What made it bearable, was how Bishop (the other MC) freaking adored Edison and his body. I never ever doubted his sincerity, and I think the author did a great job in making sure that it came through how attracted they were to each other. It was never ‘in spite of’ or ‘because of’. It just was.
It’s a longer book, and the slow burn with a building friendship and relationship was so right for these boys, who both had major insecurities about different things to work through. They were so good to each other though, and showed patience and kindness when they needed it. Bishop has had a very complicated and rough life up until this point (which I wouldn’t have minded being expanded on), and he’s working incredibly hard to turn things around.
“If my hands weren’t so dirty, I’d touch your handsome face. […]”
As mentioned, there is a lot of focus on food, bodies, and the teasing/bullying that Edison experiences. If you’re comfortable with that though, the love story in this is so sweet, and they both deserved to find someone good to spend their lives with.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Plus size MC
Ex con
Former gang member
Illiterate MC
Size difference
Strangers to friends to lovers
Class difference
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Fatphobia
Fatshaming
Bullying
Grief
Insecurities
Food-focused talk
Violent altercation
Explicit sexual content
Mentions of life in prison
Manipulative side character
Mentions of the death of a parent (off page, past)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: MC goes on ‘date’ before meeting the other MC (nothing happens between them). An ex tries to create drama later, as well as a coworker creating trouble throughout the book. The MCs only have eyes for each other.
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
“You look really handsome today, Edison.” Those few simple words eased over Edison’s mind like a comforting caress, then slid down his spine. He wanted to record Bishop saying that statement in that sexy voice and replay it for his psyche all day—anytime someone tried to make him feel less than. Because an amazingly, fine specimen of a man like Bishop thought he was handsome.
December 30, 2023
3.5/5
Pretty damn good, though it took me a hot minute to get into the story. But once I did I really enjoyed it.
The characters were especially good. I really liked how the focus of the plot was on their insecurities. How accepting and loving Bishop and Edison were was just beautiful to witness.
Am I saying this right? I feel like I can’t get my point across. I just loved the love Bishop and Edison had for each other.
Other than that I must say that I wasn’t completely hooked. Like I said it took me a bit to get into it at all but once I did it was good. I just didn’t love it completely.
Pretty damn good, though it took me a hot minute to get into the story. But once I did I really enjoyed it.
The characters were especially good. I really liked how the focus of the plot was on their insecurities. How accepting and loving Bishop and Edison were was just beautiful to witness.
Am I saying this right? I feel like I can’t get my point across. I just loved the love Bishop and Edison had for each other.
Other than that I must say that I wasn’t completely hooked. Like I said it took me a bit to get into it at all but once I did it was good. I just didn’t love it completely.
May 9, 2020
3.5 stars rounded down and one idiot stick to beat Skylar with because I really, really disliked this dude...full review to follow soonish.
After spending 5 years in jail for a crime he didn’t really commit...
Bishop’s determined not to mess up his second chance. He’s living with his dad and working at his landscape company. Bishop may not know how to read or write but if you want a landscape that’ll make you the envy of all the neighbours…Bishop’s your man.
Bishop knows that he’s got two things going for him for sure first there’s Mike. They don’t have the perfect parent/child relationship, but they’ve got a solid foundation on which to build one. It’s very clear early on that Mike genuinely cares about Bishop and want’s to be there for him and be supportive. He’s determined to get the dad thing right this time around. He’s also got Trent…Trent’s that friend that we all want the one who’s there for you in good and bad. It doesn’t matter because you know that friend has your back.
Edison’s not really looking for a second chance he’s trying to use his first one…he just wants someone that he can love and care for and maybe have feel the same way about him. Edison was raised with old fashioned values by a father who taught him how to shine his shoes, shave with a straight razor, be a gentleman, not to swear or judge and most of all to just be himself. Add in that Edison’s cooking skills are amazing and it’s hard to imagine why this man hasn’t been off the market for years. But luckily for Bishop he’s not.
One of the things that Edison and Bishop have in common is that their perception of themselves doesn’t reflect how others see them. Bisop also has a strong tendency to internal things ultimately making issues bigger than they truly were or needed to be.
I loved that Bishop was very upfront with Edison about his prison record but was disappointed about how things were dealt with when it came to Bishop’s reading and writing skills. I get that this was a strong source of insecurity, embarrassment and worry for Bishop. I know I couldn’t imagine how it would feel to be 36 years old and have to tell someone who’s opinion meant everything to me that I couldn’t read…honestly my brain boggles at the mere idea of it.
Rounding out this ensemble we have Skylar…dear, dear die in a freakin’ fire Skylar…let me count the ways that I despise you. I’m not even sure where to begin with this character for he was just to much…he was the little boy who thinks that you tell a girl you like them by pulling their hair and making fun of them only he never grew-up and while I’m not going go get into the details of it, the part he played in the books ending was just so far over the top that to be honest I just couldn’t buy into it because he went from being an annoying jerk to someone who was not just out of touch with reality but violently so.
Bishop is definitely a slow burn especially when compared to previous books that I’ve read/listened to by this author and for me that’s ok since these men are each dealing with their own bundles of insecurities and it’s abundantly clear that neither Bishop nor Edison was looking for a quick fling, but both were looking for a relationship to last so having them spend time together where clothes were kept on and conversations were had felt very in line with the overall theme of the story.
Tor Thom was the narrator for this story and while he’s not quite a new to me narrator…it’s a close call on that as I’ve only had the opportunity to enjoy two other books that he shared in the narration of. I love that his voices are clearly distinctive, and I never had to wonder who was speaking. With his narration of ‘Bishop’ Tor Thom has definitely shown me that whether he’s narrating a book on his own or with someone else he gets the job done and done well. I truly look forward to enjoying future audio books by this narrator…and…
Hopefully, Ms Via has more in store for us from Bishop and his friends.
*************************
An audio book of “Bishop” was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
After spending 5 years in jail for a crime he didn’t really commit...
Bishop’s determined not to mess up his second chance. He’s living with his dad and working at his landscape company. Bishop may not know how to read or write but if you want a landscape that’ll make you the envy of all the neighbours…Bishop’s your man.
Bishop knows that he’s got two things going for him for sure first there’s Mike. They don’t have the perfect parent/child relationship, but they’ve got a solid foundation on which to build one. It’s very clear early on that Mike genuinely cares about Bishop and want’s to be there for him and be supportive. He’s determined to get the dad thing right this time around. He’s also got Trent…Trent’s that friend that we all want the one who’s there for you in good and bad. It doesn’t matter because you know that friend has your back.
Edison’s not really looking for a second chance he’s trying to use his first one…he just wants someone that he can love and care for and maybe have feel the same way about him. Edison was raised with old fashioned values by a father who taught him how to shine his shoes, shave with a straight razor, be a gentleman, not to swear or judge and most of all to just be himself. Add in that Edison’s cooking skills are amazing and it’s hard to imagine why this man hasn’t been off the market for years. But luckily for Bishop he’s not.
One of the things that Edison and Bishop have in common is that their perception of themselves doesn’t reflect how others see them. Bisop also has a strong tendency to internal things ultimately making issues bigger than they truly were or needed to be.
I loved that Bishop was very upfront with Edison about his prison record but was disappointed about how things were dealt with when it came to Bishop’s reading and writing skills. I get that this was a strong source of insecurity, embarrassment and worry for Bishop. I know I couldn’t imagine how it would feel to be 36 years old and have to tell someone who’s opinion meant everything to me that I couldn’t read…honestly my brain boggles at the mere idea of it.
Rounding out this ensemble we have Skylar…dear, dear die in a freakin’ fire Skylar…let me count the ways that I despise you. I’m not even sure where to begin with this character for he was just to much…he was the little boy who thinks that you tell a girl you like them by pulling their hair and making fun of them only he never grew-up and while I’m not going go get into the details of it, the part he played in the books ending was just so far over the top that to be honest I just couldn’t buy into it because he went from being an annoying jerk to someone who was not just out of touch with reality but violently so.
Bishop is definitely a slow burn especially when compared to previous books that I’ve read/listened to by this author and for me that’s ok since these men are each dealing with their own bundles of insecurities and it’s abundantly clear that neither Bishop nor Edison was looking for a quick fling, but both were looking for a relationship to last so having them spend time together where clothes were kept on and conversations were had felt very in line with the overall theme of the story.
Tor Thom was the narrator for this story and while he’s not quite a new to me narrator…it’s a close call on that as I’ve only had the opportunity to enjoy two other books that he shared in the narration of. I love that his voices are clearly distinctive, and I never had to wonder who was speaking. With his narration of ‘Bishop’ Tor Thom has definitely shown me that whether he’s narrating a book on his own or with someone else he gets the job done and done well. I truly look forward to enjoying future audio books by this narrator…and…
Hopefully, Ms Via has more in store for us from Bishop and his friends.
*************************
An audio book of “Bishop” was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2023
5⭐️ This was my first book by AE Via and I loved it. Delicious slow-burn with hurt/comfort and amazing spice. I adored the dynamic between Bishop, an illiterate ex-con, and Edison, an overweight, insecure corporate executive. They were both grappling with not feeling good enough and it was so sweet to watch them validate, support, and care for one another. Bishop especially was so swoon. He tried so hard to be worthy of Eddie. So damn sweet.
There’s a good amount of OTT outside drama but I think it all worked well.
I can’t wait to read Trent’s story.
There’s a good amount of OTT outside drama but I think it all worked well.
I can’t wait to read Trent’s story.
November 15, 2019
Completely Unexpected
There could not be a more theoretically incompatible couple than Bishop and Edison, and yet here we have a sterling, beautifully written and sensibly plotted romance that not only makes you smile (even through the angsty parts) but also makes you believe.
Read the blurb. Look at the cover, which is, of course, Bishop from the rear. No imagination needed, you don't even kneed to see his face to know what he looks like.
Then pay attention to each time author Via describes Edison, usually in Bishop's thoughts and words. He may not be on the cover, but he is the central reason for finishing this book as soon as you can because he is totally unique--you pick that up virtually every step of the way as bits and pieces of his history are spilled out and your eyebrows keep rising in surprise.
The presence of Bishop's best friend (who is to be an MC in the sequel), his ex-boyfriend and a truly detestable co-worker of Edison who rocks a few scenes and sets up a lot of the underlying tension of the developing relationship between two completely unique and wonderfully drawn individuals whom you won't soon forget.
If the sequel is half as good it will be well worth waiting for.
There could not be a more theoretically incompatible couple than Bishop and Edison, and yet here we have a sterling, beautifully written and sensibly plotted romance that not only makes you smile (even through the angsty parts) but also makes you believe.
Read the blurb. Look at the cover, which is, of course, Bishop from the rear. No imagination needed, you don't even kneed to see his face to know what he looks like.
Then pay attention to each time author Via describes Edison, usually in Bishop's thoughts and words. He may not be on the cover, but he is the central reason for finishing this book as soon as you can because he is totally unique--you pick that up virtually every step of the way as bits and pieces of his history are spilled out and your eyebrows keep rising in surprise.
The presence of Bishop's best friend (who is to be an MC in the sequel), his ex-boyfriend and a truly detestable co-worker of Edison who rocks a few scenes and sets up a lot of the underlying tension of the developing relationship between two completely unique and wonderfully drawn individuals whom you won't soon forget.
If the sequel is half as good it will be well worth waiting for.
April 1, 2020
5 stars audio
5 OMFG man on man love done right stars story.
5 OMFG man on man love done right stars story.
September 5, 2021
That was such an amazing book. Beautifully written and so sweet!
April 26, 2022
When you are meant to be with someone....
As first meetings go, theirs was as intense as you could expect!
Two men who deeply felt that somehow they were lacking. Two men who really had nothing in common at first glance but deep down they are as similar as any two men could be.
Bishop has had a shitty upbringing, due in part to his very young father and his personal choices. But having experienced a harsh wake-up call, he is now determined to make himself better, to make his life better. He has a secret that he is afraid and ashame to admit but he wants to correct it.
Edison has always felt inferior because of how he looks, he finds it hard to interact with his school mates then and now his co-employees. He has learned to be a loner instead. People at work sometimes make fun of him, behind his back and sometimes to his face. He has learned to not make it matter to him, to just shrug it off because it really will not do him any good at all. He is very good at his job, and his boss is truly appreciative of his skills at work. That is what’s important right?
This book makes me smile all the time. I love how the main characters interact and even the minor characters are so involved in the story and they bring their own quirkiness into the whole tale. I love how Bishop and Edison react to each other when they are together, the hidden thoughts that they have regarding each other. And how Bishop truly admire Edison for who he truly is, he does not care about his physical looks but rather what Edison is inside is what is important to him.
The characters’ desires to better themselves personally and in their interactions are so admirable. How they go about it also will inspire us to just do the best we can in whatever capacity we have and what is available to us.
But let me just state a fact, there are people in this world who are just plain selfish and rude. They do not care who they hurt as long as they are happy and satisfied. This is sort of a wake up call for all of us, no matter what we do we have these kinds of people around us, we should be wary most times, and not to fall victim to their selfish ministrations.
Ms. Adrienne, I truly adore you, you have once again told a tale of pure love amidst bringing up and center a very important issue that a lot of people are facing, even today, illiteracy. Bishop and Edison are so endearing and precious, I can’t wait to see more of them! Can I give more than 5 stars? In my book, you deserve way more than five stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As first meetings go, theirs was as intense as you could expect!
Two men who deeply felt that somehow they were lacking. Two men who really had nothing in common at first glance but deep down they are as similar as any two men could be.
Bishop has had a shitty upbringing, due in part to his very young father and his personal choices. But having experienced a harsh wake-up call, he is now determined to make himself better, to make his life better. He has a secret that he is afraid and ashame to admit but he wants to correct it.
Edison has always felt inferior because of how he looks, he finds it hard to interact with his school mates then and now his co-employees. He has learned to be a loner instead. People at work sometimes make fun of him, behind his back and sometimes to his face. He has learned to not make it matter to him, to just shrug it off because it really will not do him any good at all. He is very good at his job, and his boss is truly appreciative of his skills at work. That is what’s important right?
This book makes me smile all the time. I love how the main characters interact and even the minor characters are so involved in the story and they bring their own quirkiness into the whole tale. I love how Bishop and Edison react to each other when they are together, the hidden thoughts that they have regarding each other. And how Bishop truly admire Edison for who he truly is, he does not care about his physical looks but rather what Edison is inside is what is important to him.
The characters’ desires to better themselves personally and in their interactions are so admirable. How they go about it also will inspire us to just do the best we can in whatever capacity we have and what is available to us.
But let me just state a fact, there are people in this world who are just plain selfish and rude. They do not care who they hurt as long as they are happy and satisfied. This is sort of a wake up call for all of us, no matter what we do we have these kinds of people around us, we should be wary most times, and not to fall victim to their selfish ministrations.
Ms. Adrienne, I truly adore you, you have once again told a tale of pure love amidst bringing up and center a very important issue that a lot of people are facing, even today, illiteracy. Bishop and Edison are so endearing and precious, I can’t wait to see more of them! Can I give more than 5 stars? In my book, you deserve way more than five stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 30, 2019
That was one unnecessary long BIG mess of a book.
The story is riddled with inconsistencies that are not worth pointing all out but it did not read genuine.
An illiterate guy from the projects would not talk like that and you would expect him to face a lot more day-to-day difficulties.
An illiterate guy who wants to better himself would also not twiddle his thumbs in prison for 5 years but take basic writing courses offered inside.
The twists with the nasty coworker were completely and utterly forced and unnecessary.
In any case both characters read like girls in and out of the bedroom and that’s a big turn off.
Given that this is one of her latest books, it simply points to lack of skill of the writer.
The story is riddled with inconsistencies that are not worth pointing all out but it did not read genuine.
An illiterate guy from the projects would not talk like that and you would expect him to face a lot more day-to-day difficulties.
An illiterate guy who wants to better himself would also not twiddle his thumbs in prison for 5 years but take basic writing courses offered inside.
The twists with the nasty coworker were completely and utterly forced and unnecessary.
In any case both characters read like girls in and out of the bedroom and that’s a big turn off.
Given that this is one of her latest books, it simply points to lack of skill of the writer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 456 reviews