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Dublin Virtues #2
Equality
Love is love. But what if the fight for equality gets in the way of building a relationship?
Lorcan Barratt has never considered himself relationship material. After his parents made it perfectly clear they’d never welcome a partner of his into their home, he learned to love his own company and can’t imagine sharing his life with another. After a single passionate kiss with Eric Kavanagh—the night before he travels to Canada for three months—Lorcan’s no longer sure he wants to be on his own. The problem is, he has no idea what sharing his life with someone else might entail.
Eric Kavanagh grew up in a loving and supportive family and always assumed he’d end up in a committed relationship. Sure that he’s found the one, Eric doesn’t worry about the fact that Lorcan has no experience when it comes to love and relationships. They are good together, so what could possibly go wrong?
When both men get involved in the marriage equality referendum in Ireland, it appears to bring them even closer together until Lorcan’s insecurities get the upper hand and he shuts Eric out. Will the fight for a yes-vote cost them their relationship or will they be able to find a balance between the love they share and the need for equality?
Pre-order Date: 11th April 2017
Available exclusively to Pride Publishing: 25th April 2017
General Release Date: 23rd May 2017
Lorcan Barratt has never considered himself relationship material. After his parents made it perfectly clear they’d never welcome a partner of his into their home, he learned to love his own company and can’t imagine sharing his life with another. After a single passionate kiss with Eric Kavanagh—the night before he travels to Canada for three months—Lorcan’s no longer sure he wants to be on his own. The problem is, he has no idea what sharing his life with someone else might entail.
Eric Kavanagh grew up in a loving and supportive family and always assumed he’d end up in a committed relationship. Sure that he’s found the one, Eric doesn’t worry about the fact that Lorcan has no experience when it comes to love and relationships. They are good together, so what could possibly go wrong?
When both men get involved in the marriage equality referendum in Ireland, it appears to bring them even closer together until Lorcan’s insecurities get the upper hand and he shuts Eric out. Will the fight for a yes-vote cost them their relationship or will they be able to find a balance between the love they share and the need for equality?
Pre-order Date: 11th April 2017
Available exclusively to Pride Publishing: 25th April 2017
General Release Date: 23rd May 2017
- GenresM M RomanceRomanceLGBT
200 pages, Paperback
First published May 23, 2017
3 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Helena Stone
35 books130 followersHelena Stone can’t remember a life before words and reading. After growing up in a household where no holiday or festivity was complete without at least one new book, it’s hardly surprising she now owns more books than shelf space while her Kindle is about to explode.
The urge to write did come as a surprise. The realisation that people might enjoy her words was a delightful shock. Now that the writing bug has well and truly taken hold, Helena can no longer imagine not sharing the characters and stories in her head and heart with the rest of the world.
Having left the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam for the peace and quiet of the Irish countryside she divides her time between reading, writing, long walks, and her part-time job in a library. A grown-up daughter and her ever-loving and patient husband make sure she occasionally takes a break too.
You can find Helena here:
Website:
http://helenastone.blogspot.ie/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helena.stone...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HelenaStone63
The urge to write did come as a surprise. The realisation that people might enjoy her words was a delightful shock. Now that the writing bug has well and truly taken hold, Helena can no longer imagine not sharing the characters and stories in her head and heart with the rest of the world.
Having left the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam for the peace and quiet of the Irish countryside she divides her time between reading, writing, long walks, and her part-time job in a library. A grown-up daughter and her ever-loving and patient husband make sure she occasionally takes a break too.
You can find Helena here:
Website:
http://helenastone.blogspot.ie/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helena.stone...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HelenaStone63
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 16, 2017
After reading Patience, I'm all gear up to read about Lorcan and Eric. They are both the respective bffs for the previous heroes, Xander and Troy. I enjoyed their Fantastic Four dynamic since last book and wondering what is the story for the other two guys.
From the beginning of Equality, Eric just came back for a three months long assignment and Lorcan was a nervous wreck awaiting his arrival. Their reunion is simply delightful and I enjoyed seeing how they both tip toeing each other, wondering how they should proceed in their relationship.
Eric came from a very loving family and he isn't afraid to fall in love and fully embrace the new relationship with Eric without much fanfare. However, that is the total opposite for Lorcan. Lorcan worried too much, about his family, his community, and people in general. His family doesn't accept his sexuality and his conversation with them left me feeling homicidal. Although when it comes to homophobic and religious family members, they aren't the worst.
I like the first half of the story, when both of them still wondering are their feelings reciprocated. And when they finally get together, I'm all giddy with happiness. The inclusion of Xander and Troy is also a nice touch, I love catching up with the guys. However, the second part of the story seems to drag a little with Lorcan's continuous issue with his internal dilemma, mostly dealing with his families in general. He seems to constantly be in a funk and it makes Eric question everything. The saving grace is Eric never once gave up on them and constantly by his side waiting patiently for him.
There is a referendum for same sex marriage that all the guys are invested in, especially Lorcan. I can see why is such a big deal for him to fight for equality. Although the story ended on a positive note with a HEA to boot, I'm feeling rather melancholy knowing till the day I die, my country will never legalize same sex marriage. And that just make me sad.
From the beginning of Equality, Eric just came back for a three months long assignment and Lorcan was a nervous wreck awaiting his arrival. Their reunion is simply delightful and I enjoyed seeing how they both tip toeing each other, wondering how they should proceed in their relationship.
Eric came from a very loving family and he isn't afraid to fall in love and fully embrace the new relationship with Eric without much fanfare. However, that is the total opposite for Lorcan. Lorcan worried too much, about his family, his community, and people in general. His family doesn't accept his sexuality and his conversation with them left me feeling homicidal. Although when it comes to homophobic and religious family members, they aren't the worst.
I like the first half of the story, when both of them still wondering are their feelings reciprocated. And when they finally get together, I'm all giddy with happiness. The inclusion of Xander and Troy is also a nice touch, I love catching up with the guys. However, the second part of the story seems to drag a little with Lorcan's continuous issue with his internal dilemma, mostly dealing with his families in general. He seems to constantly be in a funk and it makes Eric question everything. The saving grace is Eric never once gave up on them and constantly by his side waiting patiently for him.
There is a referendum for same sex marriage that all the guys are invested in, especially Lorcan. I can see why is such a big deal for him to fight for equality. Although the story ended on a positive note with a HEA to boot, I'm feeling rather melancholy knowing till the day I die, my country will never legalize same sex marriage. And that just make me sad.
June 23, 2017
I'm sad to say I couldn't really connect here.
I thought for sure I would enjoy it because I was so intrigued with their hot first kiss at the end of book one...but I just missed the 'click'.
It's important to read this sequel in order.
It's not a bad book by any means. I just think this is one of those 'me not you' scenarios.
Lorcan and Eric jump into a relationship quickly and things flow smoothly.
But the marriage equality vote is coming up in Ireland and it brings a surge of emotions to the forefront of their relationship.
Lorcan's family never disowned him when he came out, but they made it clear they would never SUPPORT him either. Since Lorcan didn't see himself as a settling down type, its impact never hit home. Then he discovers he IS relationship material and mourns the lack of acceptance within his family.
Their journey until election day has its highs and lows.
I enjoyed having Xander and Troy return from book one.
I'm not really interested in Shane and Chris, so I think I'll stop here....and wait for the next bit of Irish goodness to come from Ms. Stone.
However, if you enjoyed the first book, you very may well love this one too!
I thought for sure I would enjoy it because I was so intrigued with their hot first kiss at the end of book one...but I just missed the 'click'.
It's important to read this sequel in order.
It's not a bad book by any means. I just think this is one of those 'me not you' scenarios.
Lorcan and Eric jump into a relationship quickly and things flow smoothly.
But the marriage equality vote is coming up in Ireland and it brings a surge of emotions to the forefront of their relationship.
Lorcan's family never disowned him when he came out, but they made it clear they would never SUPPORT him either. Since Lorcan didn't see himself as a settling down type, its impact never hit home. Then he discovers he IS relationship material and mourns the lack of acceptance within his family.
Their journey until election day has its highs and lows.
I enjoyed having Xander and Troy return from book one.
I'm not really interested in Shane and Chris, so I think I'll stop here....and wait for the next bit of Irish goodness to come from Ms. Stone.
However, if you enjoyed the first book, you very may well love this one too!
May 23, 2017
Lorcan and Eric
Ireland standing before a big referendum. Will it be Yes or No to the Marriage Equality
For Lorcan this is big, his parents aren't supporting him. Their opinion about his preference to men is based on their religion....and we all know what that means....
Eric has a very different background and is coming from a very supportive family.
When Eric will be gone for three months their goodbye is sort of unexpected and passionate.
Lorcan was never in a relationship and thinks he will never be.... but now....maybe.....
The story starts when Lorcan is riding to the airport to pick up Eric. Their friends Troy and Xander (from #1) can't make it on time so there is only Lorcan... and it feels a bit awkward.... one kiss they shared and Lorcan with no relationship experience at all is a bit nervous. He just doesn't know how to react, how to communicate. Luckily Eric knows what he wants and that is Lorcan....and he is clear about that fact.
Eric is just straightforward, you get what you see....honest, open, real and sweet.
Lorcan is more complicated, he struggles. His parents and their opinion about life and relationships is for Lorcan a reason to stay away from his family.
They spent almost every night together. They visit Eric's family and have a great time...But with the voting date approaches Lorcan is getting more tense.
He visits his family alone and tries to get them to vote Yes. But his parents are negative...
And then there is help from a corner he didn't expect....Lorcan can't believe his ears....
All the stress is killing Lorcan and this reflects in his relationship with Eric...
With Lorcan not communicating with him and only with his best friend....Eric doesn't know where he stands in this all....and is afraid he is losing Lorcan.
A sweet light read. The topic is big and thank god more than sixty percent voted a Yes
The way of writing is so honest, very respectful and funny. Not heavy on the heart, no big fights. Their families are totally different but somehow they all understand the importance of the referendum and the consequences for the families.
The personalities are clear with just enough depth A little relationship trouble and thankfully both men are sweet, gentle and wise put down and get their happy end.
Another sweet read in the Dublin Virtues serie.
Kindly received an ARC from Pride Publishing
Ireland standing before a big referendum. Will it be Yes or No to the Marriage Equality
For Lorcan this is big, his parents aren't supporting him. Their opinion about his preference to men is based on their religion....and we all know what that means....
Eric has a very different background and is coming from a very supportive family.
When Eric will be gone for three months their goodbye is sort of unexpected and passionate.
Lorcan was never in a relationship and thinks he will never be.... but now....maybe.....
The story starts when Lorcan is riding to the airport to pick up Eric. Their friends Troy and Xander (from #1) can't make it on time so there is only Lorcan... and it feels a bit awkward.... one kiss they shared and Lorcan with no relationship experience at all is a bit nervous. He just doesn't know how to react, how to communicate. Luckily Eric knows what he wants and that is Lorcan....and he is clear about that fact.
Eric is just straightforward, you get what you see....honest, open, real and sweet.
Lorcan is more complicated, he struggles. His parents and their opinion about life and relationships is for Lorcan a reason to stay away from his family.
They spent almost every night together. They visit Eric's family and have a great time...But with the voting date approaches Lorcan is getting more tense.
He visits his family alone and tries to get them to vote Yes. But his parents are negative...
And then there is help from a corner he didn't expect....Lorcan can't believe his ears....
All the stress is killing Lorcan and this reflects in his relationship with Eric...
With Lorcan not communicating with him and only with his best friend....Eric doesn't know where he stands in this all....and is afraid he is losing Lorcan.
A sweet light read. The topic is big and thank god more than sixty percent voted a Yes
The way of writing is so honest, very respectful and funny. Not heavy on the heart, no big fights. Their families are totally different but somehow they all understand the importance of the referendum and the consequences for the families.
The personalities are clear with just enough depth A little relationship trouble and thankfully both men are sweet, gentle and wise put down and get their happy end.
Another sweet read in the Dublin Virtues serie.
Kindly received an ARC from Pride Publishing
July 15, 2017
~ 4.5 Stars ~
Equality is the second installment of Helena Stone’s Dublin Virtues series, and picks up on the tantalizing question of whether or not Eric and Lorcan were exploring more than just a passing friendship at the end of book one. With both Xander and Troy now firmly established as a couple, and the tattoo parlor a more stable business, the novel focuses on Troy’s best friend, Lorcan, and his ever growing attraction to Eric, who has just returned from three months away in Canada. While the two hit it off on Skype, both were still unsure of how to handle their feelings for each other now that they were in the same place at the same time, particularly Lorcan, who had never had a boyfriend before.
Taking care of himself and steering clear of emotional entanglements had been how Lorcan moved through life prior to meeting Eric, and his imagination runs wild with disastrous scenarios drummed up by his naïveté about what it means to be involved with someone. It doesn’t help that Lorcan had been cast aside by his parents, who are devoutly catholic and view his sexuality as an abomination, which has hurt him deeply and left him feeling alone and adrift. It’s carrying this painful burden that steers Lorcan’s thinking and makes him feel inadequate and unequipped to be the partner Eric deserves. When he signs on to be an advocate for the equality vote facing Ireland, little does Lorcan realize that it will become a wedge between he and Eric and drive home the false idea that he could never be anyone’s equal, much less their partner in life.
My heart broke multiple times for Lorcan as I watched his insecurities mount. The rigid hate from his parents and his constant worries over trying to not screw up his very first relationship were nearly palpable in this story—almost like a second character every time he appeared on page. Everything he did hinged on getting it right somehow, and yet, his near absolute attitude that he was a just a second class citizen in more ways than one always seemed to foil his best efforts. Eric was a paragon of patience, and I loved that about his character. There were definite moments of anger on Eric’s part to ensure he was a believable man, but, all in all, the author’s adept skill at mating up two polar opposites and making their romance work was very evident.
While some might comment that their relationship moved quickly, that would be discounting the three months they spent together via Skype. Although we got a limited window on the past, it was clear that Eric’s time away on the job laid the foundation for what was to come, and what he expected to happen when he returned home. Watching this relationship grow and mature was a pleasant journey, and the added element of getting a bird’s eye view on how important the equality vote was to these gay men just added positively to the story, in my opinion. At times, the pacing lagged and, yes, there were definite moments of frustration with Lorcan’s confusion and ineptitude when it came to forging a relationship, but it was realistic as well, and that made allowances for the slower passages in the novel.
Equality is a very nice addition to author Helena Stone’s Dublin Virtues trilogy. The secondary cast was all there from the first novel, and life had continued to move on for them, which was really lovely to read as well. I look forward to the third book in this series.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach
Equality is the second installment of Helena Stone’s Dublin Virtues series, and picks up on the tantalizing question of whether or not Eric and Lorcan were exploring more than just a passing friendship at the end of book one. With both Xander and Troy now firmly established as a couple, and the tattoo parlor a more stable business, the novel focuses on Troy’s best friend, Lorcan, and his ever growing attraction to Eric, who has just returned from three months away in Canada. While the two hit it off on Skype, both were still unsure of how to handle their feelings for each other now that they were in the same place at the same time, particularly Lorcan, who had never had a boyfriend before.
Taking care of himself and steering clear of emotional entanglements had been how Lorcan moved through life prior to meeting Eric, and his imagination runs wild with disastrous scenarios drummed up by his naïveté about what it means to be involved with someone. It doesn’t help that Lorcan had been cast aside by his parents, who are devoutly catholic and view his sexuality as an abomination, which has hurt him deeply and left him feeling alone and adrift. It’s carrying this painful burden that steers Lorcan’s thinking and makes him feel inadequate and unequipped to be the partner Eric deserves. When he signs on to be an advocate for the equality vote facing Ireland, little does Lorcan realize that it will become a wedge between he and Eric and drive home the false idea that he could never be anyone’s equal, much less their partner in life.
My heart broke multiple times for Lorcan as I watched his insecurities mount. The rigid hate from his parents and his constant worries over trying to not screw up his very first relationship were nearly palpable in this story—almost like a second character every time he appeared on page. Everything he did hinged on getting it right somehow, and yet, his near absolute attitude that he was a just a second class citizen in more ways than one always seemed to foil his best efforts. Eric was a paragon of patience, and I loved that about his character. There were definite moments of anger on Eric’s part to ensure he was a believable man, but, all in all, the author’s adept skill at mating up two polar opposites and making their romance work was very evident.
While some might comment that their relationship moved quickly, that would be discounting the three months they spent together via Skype. Although we got a limited window on the past, it was clear that Eric’s time away on the job laid the foundation for what was to come, and what he expected to happen when he returned home. Watching this relationship grow and mature was a pleasant journey, and the added element of getting a bird’s eye view on how important the equality vote was to these gay men just added positively to the story, in my opinion. At times, the pacing lagged and, yes, there were definite moments of frustration with Lorcan’s confusion and ineptitude when it came to forging a relationship, but it was realistic as well, and that made allowances for the slower passages in the novel.
Equality is a very nice addition to author Helena Stone’s Dublin Virtues trilogy. The secondary cast was all there from the first novel, and life had continued to move on for them, which was really lovely to read as well. I look forward to the third book in this series.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach
June 6, 2017
I had been anxious to read Eric’s and Lorcan’s story in follow-up to the story of their best friends Xander and Troy in Patience. Equality unfolds beginning with Eric’s return to Ireland after a three-month job assignment in America. Lorcan is extremely nervous as it closes in on time to pick up Eric at the airport. Even though the two have remained in contact electronically since sharing their first kiss the night before Eric departed for Canada, Lorcan is nervous about what might – or might not – happen next between the two. Will they rekindle what they had finally started, or will it fade away? Thankfully the flame still burns bright, and they quickly pick up from where they left off. As chance may have it, Eric’s new apartment also just happens to be right across the hall from Lorcan’s flat, and the couple’s relationship quickly blossoms.
The elephant in the room, though, is Lorcan’s fight with his family’s inability to accept his sexuality, and it parallels the overarching plot revolving around the Equality Referendum vote in Ireland. His parents may deflect their ignorance and denial of their son’s lifestyle to the Catholic religion and blindly following the Church’s dictate and doctrine, but a surprise in the form of Lorcan’s outspoken and independent grandmother offers an alternative perspective. And Lorcan’s passionate speech on his hometown stage? Poignant and brilliant.
Eric’s and Lorcan’s friendship and romantic relationship seem so authentic and natural from the very beginning, and this quickly resonates with readers who met the couple in Patience and already sensed the chemistry percolating between these two. Lorcan, however, unfortunately harbors buried insecurities and vulnerabilities because he has never been in a long-term relationship and has no true point of reference. Thankfully, Eric is open-minded and mature, and draws upon his past relationship experience, never once blaming Lorcan for his reactions or inexperience in knowing what to do. He’s able to provide a balanced perspective to their relationship that’s coupled with the two’s genuine endearment and mutual respect for one another. Eric is able to convince Lorcan that regardless of history, insecurities, or other underlying vulnerabilities, communication is key to working things out and growing together.
Stone once again pens a thoroughly engrossing and multidimensional story layered with heartfelt emotion, tension, personal discovery, growth, and likable and well-developed characters, and a match made in Heaven romance between two amazing guys. As usual, her writing is solid, descriptive, and realistic, and her characters always feel as if they’re right beside you.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader’s Copy of Equality.
The elephant in the room, though, is Lorcan’s fight with his family’s inability to accept his sexuality, and it parallels the overarching plot revolving around the Equality Referendum vote in Ireland. His parents may deflect their ignorance and denial of their son’s lifestyle to the Catholic religion and blindly following the Church’s dictate and doctrine, but a surprise in the form of Lorcan’s outspoken and independent grandmother offers an alternative perspective. And Lorcan’s passionate speech on his hometown stage? Poignant and brilliant.
Eric’s and Lorcan’s friendship and romantic relationship seem so authentic and natural from the very beginning, and this quickly resonates with readers who met the couple in Patience and already sensed the chemistry percolating between these two. Lorcan, however, unfortunately harbors buried insecurities and vulnerabilities because he has never been in a long-term relationship and has no true point of reference. Thankfully, Eric is open-minded and mature, and draws upon his past relationship experience, never once blaming Lorcan for his reactions or inexperience in knowing what to do. He’s able to provide a balanced perspective to their relationship that’s coupled with the two’s genuine endearment and mutual respect for one another. Eric is able to convince Lorcan that regardless of history, insecurities, or other underlying vulnerabilities, communication is key to working things out and growing together.
Stone once again pens a thoroughly engrossing and multidimensional story layered with heartfelt emotion, tension, personal discovery, growth, and likable and well-developed characters, and a match made in Heaven romance between two amazing guys. As usual, her writing is solid, descriptive, and realistic, and her characters always feel as if they’re right beside you.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader’s Copy of Equality.
May 24, 2017
I love Helena Stone’s Dublin Virtues series, although, and actually because, events aren’t always smooth sailing for the heroes. In fact, some people in the stories disappoint me, but there is always room for a corner to be turned or a mind to be changed. Sometimes the frustration with how a character behaves is due to circumstances that, at the time, are due to a backstory that we, along with the other story characters, do not have access to. Yet.
In Book #1, Patience, Troy fulfilled his dream of opening his own tattoo parlor in partnership with a talented artist, only to be betrayed at the last minute, leaving Troy to shoulder all of the expense and work of opening and running the shop. We also briefly meet Eric and Lorcan, who are the focus of the second story, Equality.
Ms. Stone carefully weaves real life events into her books, and in this case it is marriage equality. This is something that has great meaning to Troy, although initially he is not intending to get married himself.
At the beginning of the story Eric surprises Lorcan by becoming his neighbor. Eric is a stand up kind of guy who thinks before he acts and seems quite reserved. Lorcan, on the other hand, can be obsessive about matters that he believes in and tends to go off on tangents. In other words, Eric is exactly what Lorcan needs and Lorcan is exactly what Eric needs. This difference in personalities is what makes their relationship a slow burn rather than a sudden bonfire of passion.
The story contains the not uncommon conflict within family over a son being gay that intrudes into an otherwise sweet love story, but in this case it is Lorcan’s grandmother who steps forward to save the day with crafty interference between Lorcan and his parents. Lorcan’s Gran is a force of nature, but always with love in her heart. When Lorcan and Eric try to explain to Lorcan’s family why marriage equality means so much to society, it is so eloquently stated that it should have been an op-ed piece in the newspaper.
I loved this book as a perfect follow up to Patience and also on its own merits. Helena Stone is a writer to follow and her books strike a cord with me. Highly recommended.
In Book #1, Patience, Troy fulfilled his dream of opening his own tattoo parlor in partnership with a talented artist, only to be betrayed at the last minute, leaving Troy to shoulder all of the expense and work of opening and running the shop. We also briefly meet Eric and Lorcan, who are the focus of the second story, Equality.
Ms. Stone carefully weaves real life events into her books, and in this case it is marriage equality. This is something that has great meaning to Troy, although initially he is not intending to get married himself.
At the beginning of the story Eric surprises Lorcan by becoming his neighbor. Eric is a stand up kind of guy who thinks before he acts and seems quite reserved. Lorcan, on the other hand, can be obsessive about matters that he believes in and tends to go off on tangents. In other words, Eric is exactly what Lorcan needs and Lorcan is exactly what Eric needs. This difference in personalities is what makes their relationship a slow burn rather than a sudden bonfire of passion.
The story contains the not uncommon conflict within family over a son being gay that intrudes into an otherwise sweet love story, but in this case it is Lorcan’s grandmother who steps forward to save the day with crafty interference between Lorcan and his parents. Lorcan’s Gran is a force of nature, but always with love in her heart. When Lorcan and Eric try to explain to Lorcan’s family why marriage equality means so much to society, it is so eloquently stated that it should have been an op-ed piece in the newspaper.
I loved this book as a perfect follow up to Patience and also on its own merits. Helena Stone is a writer to follow and her books strike a cord with me. Highly recommended.
May 23, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Equality is the second book in Helena Stone’s Dublin Virtues series. This could be read as a standalone, although I would recommend reading Patience first. It is in Patience where we initially meet Eric and Lorcan and have an insight into the interactions between them, preceding their kiss. For me, Equality continues Stone’s series perfectly, with familiar characters, the beautiful setting of Ireland, as well as Stone building upon series events, and not only those with Eric and Lorcan.
Stone’s characterization of the two men is fundamentally careful and because of this, we are able to react easily to their story. However, in my opinion, Lorcan is the more intense half of the couple and therefore, his narrative is the one I found more consuming. Stone’s stroke of genius is in creating two parents who have not rejected their son because of his sexuality, but who have unwillingly accepted him, though they refuse to meet any partner he may have. I definitely would have empathized with Lorcan if he had been turned away by his family, but the fact that Stone allows us to meet his parents and that they firmly express their disapproval just makes the equality message in the novel all the more poignant.
Lorcan has been reluctant to confront his parents because of his guilt over upsetting the family dynamic, but his Gran does this for him and she is probably my favorite character in the story. I loved her fierce support of Lorcan and Eric and the fact that she is unafraid to speak her mind. It is because of Gran’s clever scheming that Lorcan’s parents have an uncomfortable meeting with Eric, which is the first step towards Lorcan’s relationship with them changing.
Read Kirsty’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Equality is the second book in Helena Stone’s Dublin Virtues series. This could be read as a standalone, although I would recommend reading Patience first. It is in Patience where we initially meet Eric and Lorcan and have an insight into the interactions between them, preceding their kiss. For me, Equality continues Stone’s series perfectly, with familiar characters, the beautiful setting of Ireland, as well as Stone building upon series events, and not only those with Eric and Lorcan.
Stone’s characterization of the two men is fundamentally careful and because of this, we are able to react easily to their story. However, in my opinion, Lorcan is the more intense half of the couple and therefore, his narrative is the one I found more consuming. Stone’s stroke of genius is in creating two parents who have not rejected their son because of his sexuality, but who have unwillingly accepted him, though they refuse to meet any partner he may have. I definitely would have empathized with Lorcan if he had been turned away by his family, but the fact that Stone allows us to meet his parents and that they firmly express their disapproval just makes the equality message in the novel all the more poignant.
Lorcan has been reluctant to confront his parents because of his guilt over upsetting the family dynamic, but his Gran does this for him and she is probably my favorite character in the story. I loved her fierce support of Lorcan and Eric and the fact that she is unafraid to speak her mind. It is because of Gran’s clever scheming that Lorcan’s parents have an uncomfortable meeting with Eric, which is the first step towards Lorcan’s relationship with them changing.
Read Kirsty’s review in its entirety here.
June 19, 2017
This one was so much better than book 1!! So pleased i persevered. I think because we got to know Lorcan and Eric in book 1 i was definitely more connected to them.
Lorcan and Eric share a hot kiss before Eric goes off to Canada. Keeping in touch by phone and skype they start a relationship of sorts. When Eric returns Lorcan isn't sure how it was going to be but Eric shut that down pretty quick by introducing Lorcan to his family. Lorcan didn't realize he wanted a relationship and because he has no experience of one he starts to second guess everything that happens. Thankfully Eric can read him like a book and managed to shut down his insecurities.
They both throw themselves into the referendum for gay marriage. Of course Eric wants it but Lorcan seems to be taking it as a personal crusade and Eric can't figure out why. Lorcan doesn't know how to open up to Eric about his reasons so keeps it hidden causing unnecessary worries for them both.
This one keeps a much better pace and kept me interested from the start.
I really enjoyed Lorcan and Eric's relationship. I loved how Lorcan was insecure about the relationship but he seemed so sure of Eric it was quite sweet and a little naive and this gave him a little piece of my heart. I also broke a little at how he just took what his family put him through not wanting to break it up. Although they weren't awful to him it still hurt, bless him! Hooray for Granny!
Eric was also fab. I loved how he had the patience of saint with Lorcan and guided him through the relationship. He was alpha but without the bossiness.
Their chemistry together was hot! and i loved every single love scene between them. That's exactly what they felt like even from the start. Love.
The referendum story and the things with family kept me interested aswell as their relationship.
Overall a good read and I'm eager to find out the dastardly Shane's story!
Books 2 Blog
Lorcan and Eric share a hot kiss before Eric goes off to Canada. Keeping in touch by phone and skype they start a relationship of sorts. When Eric returns Lorcan isn't sure how it was going to be but Eric shut that down pretty quick by introducing Lorcan to his family. Lorcan didn't realize he wanted a relationship and because he has no experience of one he starts to second guess everything that happens. Thankfully Eric can read him like a book and managed to shut down his insecurities.
They both throw themselves into the referendum for gay marriage. Of course Eric wants it but Lorcan seems to be taking it as a personal crusade and Eric can't figure out why. Lorcan doesn't know how to open up to Eric about his reasons so keeps it hidden causing unnecessary worries for them both.
This one keeps a much better pace and kept me interested from the start.
I really enjoyed Lorcan and Eric's relationship. I loved how Lorcan was insecure about the relationship but he seemed so sure of Eric it was quite sweet and a little naive and this gave him a little piece of my heart. I also broke a little at how he just took what his family put him through not wanting to break it up. Although they weren't awful to him it still hurt, bless him! Hooray for Granny!
Eric was also fab. I loved how he had the patience of saint with Lorcan and guided him through the relationship. He was alpha but without the bossiness.
Their chemistry together was hot! and i loved every single love scene between them. That's exactly what they felt like even from the start. Love.
The referendum story and the things with family kept me interested aswell as their relationship.
Overall a good read and I'm eager to find out the dastardly Shane's story!
Books 2 Blog
May 31, 2017
4 Stars!!!
Equality is book 2 in the Dublin Virtues series and while technically it could be read as a standalone, Eric and Lorcan are featured in book 1, Patience, and we see the start of their friendship there, so I recommend reading them in order.
Lorcan and Eric weren't looking for love, but after sharing a passionate kiss the night before Eric leaves to go work in Canada for 3 months, they are both nervous and anxious for what might come out of it now that Eric is back in Ireland. However, Lorcan's insecurities and being involved in the fight for the marriage equality referendum in Ireland might prove too much for their relationship.
I loved the first half of this book. The chemistry between Lorcan and Eric was amazing and I just couldn't get enough of them together. I really liked seeing them move on from the friendship they'd forged in Patience and settle into a relationship. As we moved further into the second half of the book, I found myself wanting to strangle Lorcan more and more though. I understood where he was coming from, but really, Eric had done nothing but try to support him and be there for him and help with the whole referendum deal, so Lorcan's insecurities had me fed up.
Still, this was an entertaining read, the fight for the yes-vote is definitely an important issue no matter the country and I enjoyed reading Lorcan and Eric's story for the most part. It was a well-written book and I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Equality is book 2 in the Dublin Virtues series and while technically it could be read as a standalone, Eric and Lorcan are featured in book 1, Patience, and we see the start of their friendship there, so I recommend reading them in order.
Lorcan and Eric weren't looking for love, but after sharing a passionate kiss the night before Eric leaves to go work in Canada for 3 months, they are both nervous and anxious for what might come out of it now that Eric is back in Ireland. However, Lorcan's insecurities and being involved in the fight for the marriage equality referendum in Ireland might prove too much for their relationship.
I loved the first half of this book. The chemistry between Lorcan and Eric was amazing and I just couldn't get enough of them together. I really liked seeing them move on from the friendship they'd forged in Patience and settle into a relationship. As we moved further into the second half of the book, I found myself wanting to strangle Lorcan more and more though. I understood where he was coming from, but really, Eric had done nothing but try to support him and be there for him and help with the whole referendum deal, so Lorcan's insecurities had me fed up.
Still, this was an entertaining read, the fight for the yes-vote is definitely an important issue no matter the country and I enjoyed reading Lorcan and Eric's story for the most part. It was a well-written book and I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
May 31, 2017
I have been looking forward to reading Eric and Lorcan's story ever since they met when their best friends, Zander and Troy met in Patience. Boy, did Helena Stone deliver! Set with the backdrop of the Yes Referendum for marriage equality in Ireland, Eric and Lorcan try to balance dating, family, and well equality.
As a heterosexual woman I have no idea what it is like to come out to one's family and having a close loving relationship with my parents I can't imagine what it feels like to have them turn on you either but I would think that to face what Lorcan does could be so trying. To have them basically say "okay but don't bring it to our door", I can't imagine the lack of hope and support he feels so when his grandmother steps up and supports him at a family dinner made me smile and cry happy tears and showed Lorcan that perhaps not all hope is lost. Having said that, the author really conveys Lorcan's fears throughout, even if you want to shake him and tell him to open up to Eric.
I just love this series so far and I love how the equality is not just about marriage, gay and straight, but also between Eric and Lorcan. Lorcan is in a relationship for the first time in his life so for him to balance what he's always done alone with Eric is also a battle. Like in Patience, you just might walk away with a little new insight about yourself as well as enjoyed a lovely work of fiction as you follow Lorcan's journey.
As a heterosexual woman I have no idea what it is like to come out to one's family and having a close loving relationship with my parents I can't imagine what it feels like to have them turn on you either but I would think that to face what Lorcan does could be so trying. To have them basically say "okay but don't bring it to our door", I can't imagine the lack of hope and support he feels so when his grandmother steps up and supports him at a family dinner made me smile and cry happy tears and showed Lorcan that perhaps not all hope is lost. Having said that, the author really conveys Lorcan's fears throughout, even if you want to shake him and tell him to open up to Eric.
I just love this series so far and I love how the equality is not just about marriage, gay and straight, but also between Eric and Lorcan. Lorcan is in a relationship for the first time in his life so for him to balance what he's always done alone with Eric is also a battle. Like in Patience, you just might walk away with a little new insight about yourself as well as enjoyed a lovely work of fiction as you follow Lorcan's journey.
May 26, 2017
What a terrific follow-up to Patience! I love Helena Stone's writing style and that we as readers don't always get to "know" what is going on before the characters do. Somehow she always makes me feel like her characters are real people that I could bump into. I enjoyed Eric and Lorcan in Patience, and getting to experience them together (even with the speed bumps and tribulations) made this a winner for me. Adding in the marriage equality win was a beautiful bonus! Peeking in on Xander and Troy was lovely too. Now I'm eagerly awaiting book 3, Renewal! Come on June 20th :-)
Highly Recommended
Highly Recommended
May 28, 2017
Equality is the second book in the Dublin Virtues series and picks up three months after that final scene in Patience, where enigmatic Lorcan was found in a passionate embrace with Eric.
Eric has been on a work assignment in Canada for the last three months but he has kept up an electronic connection with Lorcan. Now finally homeward bound he is eager to see if the chemistry he found with Lorcan is still there and they can progress towards a relationship.
Lorcan is not one for relationships which is relative to his background and his sexuality. He likes his life to be black and white and keep it simple so to complicate it with a relationship would not help. This has always been his cop out but then he meets Eric and things get complicated. Going to pick up Eric from the airport has him anxious as to what will happen next. Yes they had the chemistry and yes they have kept in touch but will Eric want more and can he take that step and give more?
Suffice to say the sexy twosome take off from that last explosive kiss and find they still feel the same about each other. But then things start to happen too fast for Lorcan to process in his need to be organised and in control mantra. To further complicate matters he has a lot of soul searching to do with his parent’s non acceptance of his sexuality, their religion and the huge focus on the marriage equality referendum in Ireland. He needs to find the balance and with all these new feelings towards Eric just has his mind all mixed up and his obsessive need to find control.
I liked that the two main characters were opposites with Eric and his easy going vibe and his open and honest personality. Then on the other hand there is Lorcan with his closed off, secretive, keeping his feelings held back personality. It was obviously a case of opposites do attract.
There was the usual bigotry against gays and not surprisingly it was Lorcan’s religious parents who could not accept his sexuality. They didn’t banish him but just requested he never flaunt it in front of them or bring any boyfriend to meet them. It was only through an inopportune meeting that his parents and boyfriend do actually meet (or was that down to Grandma?) that things start to ease with both sides of the equality argument looking at the bigger picture. I loved some of the common sense arguments put forward by the author. It had me cheering in parts. The loving acceptance was provided by Eric’s family and surprisingly Lorcan’s grandmother.
The romance aspect did seem to be an insta love one, in that after only days (or so it seemed) they were boyfriends and then in love. This in itself was not an issue but I did think with all this internal dialogue Lorcan had going on there would be a lot more pulling away on his side in the first instance. He seemed to do this well after they were established.
However this was a good addition to the series and I shall look forward to more. Four stars.
Eric has been on a work assignment in Canada for the last three months but he has kept up an electronic connection with Lorcan. Now finally homeward bound he is eager to see if the chemistry he found with Lorcan is still there and they can progress towards a relationship.
Lorcan is not one for relationships which is relative to his background and his sexuality. He likes his life to be black and white and keep it simple so to complicate it with a relationship would not help. This has always been his cop out but then he meets Eric and things get complicated. Going to pick up Eric from the airport has him anxious as to what will happen next. Yes they had the chemistry and yes they have kept in touch but will Eric want more and can he take that step and give more?
Suffice to say the sexy twosome take off from that last explosive kiss and find they still feel the same about each other. But then things start to happen too fast for Lorcan to process in his need to be organised and in control mantra. To further complicate matters he has a lot of soul searching to do with his parent’s non acceptance of his sexuality, their religion and the huge focus on the marriage equality referendum in Ireland. He needs to find the balance and with all these new feelings towards Eric just has his mind all mixed up and his obsessive need to find control.
I liked that the two main characters were opposites with Eric and his easy going vibe and his open and honest personality. Then on the other hand there is Lorcan with his closed off, secretive, keeping his feelings held back personality. It was obviously a case of opposites do attract.
There was the usual bigotry against gays and not surprisingly it was Lorcan’s religious parents who could not accept his sexuality. They didn’t banish him but just requested he never flaunt it in front of them or bring any boyfriend to meet them. It was only through an inopportune meeting that his parents and boyfriend do actually meet (or was that down to Grandma?) that things start to ease with both sides of the equality argument looking at the bigger picture. I loved some of the common sense arguments put forward by the author. It had me cheering in parts. The loving acceptance was provided by Eric’s family and surprisingly Lorcan’s grandmother.
The romance aspect did seem to be an insta love one, in that after only days (or so it seemed) they were boyfriends and then in love. This in itself was not an issue but I did think with all this internal dialogue Lorcan had going on there would be a lot more pulling away on his side in the first instance. He seemed to do this well after they were established.
However this was a good addition to the series and I shall look forward to more. Four stars.
May 29, 2017
Every now and then I read a story that triggers that part of me that wants to go out and march for a cause or rant about the things that are unfair in the world. Equality is one of those books, and that’s both a good thing—since it sparks something in me that brings my passion to the forefront, and a not-so-good thing—since it had my brain bouncing off in a bunch of directions when I read certain parts of the book that stirred my inner activist.
My heart ached for Lorcan over the relationship between him and his parents. While I respect every person’s right to believe in whatever religion calls to them, to use that religion as a screen to hide behind to disrespect others and make anyone feel as if they are less than anyone else is morally reprehensible and frankly I find it offensive to ALL people. That said, I was positively tickled with Lorcan’s grandmother’s response and support (what a little spitfire she turned out to be!). Lorcan also has an amazing group of friends and siblings who love and support him unconditionally as well. He doesn’t really have any relationship experience, but when it comes to Eric that turns out to not be much of a problem.
The relationship between Lorcan and Eric seems almost effortless, as if the two of them together is perfectly, absolutely natural. They are so comfortable with each other that you really can’t draw any other conclusion than that they were meant to be. While they do get together almost from the start of the story, it really is not an insta-love situation since they’d already gotten to know each other previously in the time frame covered by the first book in the series, Patience. Where Lorcan is not experienced in relationships, Eric is…and that provides a balance for them as they easily blend together into a solid, committed couple.
There’s some tension at different points of the story, primarily when dealing with Lorcan’s parents and the mounting stress as the referendum vote approaches. That tension brings the component of communication in a relationship to the forefront both during and near the end of the story to add a bit more drama to things.
I really enjoyed this story, and just adored Lorcan and Eric together. Equality was a 4.5 star read for me, and is a story I highly recommend to any M/M romance fan. I also want to give a nod to the lovely cover of this book, I’m really loving the beautiful covers for this series as a whole. This story can be read as a standalone, though if you do you’ll probably wind up wanting to read Troy and Xander’s story, Patience, when you’re done, and will want to pick up the next one, Renewal, as soon as it’s available (like me!). It is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content…and don’t be surprised if this story awakens the latent activist within you as well ;-)
My heart ached for Lorcan over the relationship between him and his parents. While I respect every person’s right to believe in whatever religion calls to them, to use that religion as a screen to hide behind to disrespect others and make anyone feel as if they are less than anyone else is morally reprehensible and frankly I find it offensive to ALL people. That said, I was positively tickled with Lorcan’s grandmother’s response and support (what a little spitfire she turned out to be!). Lorcan also has an amazing group of friends and siblings who love and support him unconditionally as well. He doesn’t really have any relationship experience, but when it comes to Eric that turns out to not be much of a problem.
The relationship between Lorcan and Eric seems almost effortless, as if the two of them together is perfectly, absolutely natural. They are so comfortable with each other that you really can’t draw any other conclusion than that they were meant to be. While they do get together almost from the start of the story, it really is not an insta-love situation since they’d already gotten to know each other previously in the time frame covered by the first book in the series, Patience. Where Lorcan is not experienced in relationships, Eric is…and that provides a balance for them as they easily blend together into a solid, committed couple.
There’s some tension at different points of the story, primarily when dealing with Lorcan’s parents and the mounting stress as the referendum vote approaches. That tension brings the component of communication in a relationship to the forefront both during and near the end of the story to add a bit more drama to things.
I really enjoyed this story, and just adored Lorcan and Eric together. Equality was a 4.5 star read for me, and is a story I highly recommend to any M/M romance fan. I also want to give a nod to the lovely cover of this book, I’m really loving the beautiful covers for this series as a whole. This story can be read as a standalone, though if you do you’ll probably wind up wanting to read Troy and Xander’s story, Patience, when you’re done, and will want to pick up the next one, Renewal, as soon as it’s available (like me!). It is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content…and don’t be surprised if this story awakens the latent activist within you as well ;-)
May 23, 2017
We met Lorcan and Eric in Xander and Troy’s book, Patience. They are Xander and Troy’s respective best friends and I was really looking forward to their book. They had some major chemistry there, but were unable to act on it due to Eric’s having to travel to Canada for a few months for business.
This story begins with Eric’s return to Dublin. Both are excited for his return, but each has their reservations about their mutual feelings. They shared an explosive kiss before Eric’s departure, and while they spoke often and even video chatted, it was never really brought up. Do they still have that same chemistry? Was it a one-time thing, or is there a real interest in exploring things? Thankfully, the answer to all of the above is yes.
However, even though they both agree to move forward, Lorcan has reservations that take a good portion of this book to get past. He has always believed he would be forever single, not interested in relationships and happy being on his own. So, he is worried he just isn’t relationship material and doesn’t know what he’s doing or what to expect. Thankfully, Eric handles this with somewhat ease reassuring Lorcan as they go and being the voice of reason.
Through all of this, they are fighting for equality and the passing of gay marriage in the upcoming vote. This has a bigger impact on Lorcan whose parents told him long ago they would never welcome a partner of his into their home. This had played a big role in Lorcan’s relationship outlook, but when Lorcan sees how things are with Eric’s family, he begins to see things a bit differently.
I am really enjoying this series. It is a little lighter than what I’d normally choose, but the writing and storylines are well done. My only real struggle with this story was the amount of inner struggle on Lorcan’s part when it came to being his first relationship. Understandable to a point, but I found being reminded of it over and over to be a bit tiresome. On the flip side, just as with the previous book, there are some great side characters here. Lorcan’s granny is a hoot and really stole the show in this one.
It looks like Shane is returning home a different man for the next book, which is a good thing, to be sure. I’m super curious to see what that’s all about and am already looking forward to his book.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
June 14, 2017
ღ´¨)Enter the world of tattoo artistry...
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Equality, if they got it, would be hard won.
The fact that he would never be able to bring his boyfriend home to meet his parents has always weighed on Lorcan's mind. Maybe that was the whole reason he fought so hard for equality. But meeting Eric took on a whole knew meaning when suppressed feelings tore through him and for the first time Lorcan was actively looking at permanency.
Falling for his best friend's best friend should have been awkward. But after working together, nothing spoke more than distance to make the heart grow fonder. Once Eric had returned to Ireland, he knew home was where the heart was and nothing felt as comfortable as Lorcan.
In a world where equality was becoming the norm, the author actively interjected fact with fiction, making the human rights campaign a special place in the story. As the men both fought for what would eventually be a positive in their corner, they come to realize just what a win would mean for their happily ever after. Besides: He was as entitled to be loved and have that love acknowledged as any other person.
I loved this story for the mere fact that Lorcan and Eric were flirting around each other in book one, Patience,where their best friends became partners. They had shared a delicious kiss before Eric had to leave for Canada for work. Though both were hesitant in awakening this fleeting passion, they were drawn together like a moth to the flame.
The other substory was Lorcan's response to his family and how it would effect everything should he follow his heart. Fighting for Equality was hard, fighting for familial support even harder. As with the first book there was a message. Believe in yourself and trust that things would work out.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Pride Publishing
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
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(¸.•´ (¸.•` ღ
Equality, if they got it, would be hard won.
The fact that he would never be able to bring his boyfriend home to meet his parents has always weighed on Lorcan's mind. Maybe that was the whole reason he fought so hard for equality. But meeting Eric took on a whole knew meaning when suppressed feelings tore through him and for the first time Lorcan was actively looking at permanency.
Falling for his best friend's best friend should have been awkward. But after working together, nothing spoke more than distance to make the heart grow fonder. Once Eric had returned to Ireland, he knew home was where the heart was and nothing felt as comfortable as Lorcan.
In a world where equality was becoming the norm, the author actively interjected fact with fiction, making the human rights campaign a special place in the story. As the men both fought for what would eventually be a positive in their corner, they come to realize just what a win would mean for their happily ever after. Besides: He was as entitled to be loved and have that love acknowledged as any other person.
I loved this story for the mere fact that Lorcan and Eric were flirting around each other in book one, Patience,where their best friends became partners. They had shared a delicious kiss before Eric had to leave for Canada for work. Though both were hesitant in awakening this fleeting passion, they were drawn together like a moth to the flame.
The other substory was Lorcan's response to his family and how it would effect everything should he follow his heart. Fighting for Equality was hard, fighting for familial support even harder. As with the first book there was a message. Believe in yourself and trust that things would work out.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Pride Publishing
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
May 31, 2017
After reading Patience I was very intrigued by and looking forward to Eric and Lorcan’s story and Helena Stone definitely delivered! I would definitely recommend reading Patience first since this book picks up where Patience ended and it would be good to know the other characters.
Eric and Lorcan shared some flirting and a hot kiss before he left for three months for work, but now he’s back and it’s time to see if that chemistry between the two men is real. I loved their reunion and seeing how their relationship grows. It’s not especially easy for Lorcan, never really having had a relationship and also not really expecting to ever be in one. He doesn’t think he’s right for that kind of thing but being with Eric makes him question that belief. Lorcan is incredibly passionate about equality and is something he is fighting for, and when Eric joins in with him the two get even closer. But Lorcan has major issues with his family and their lack of acceptance of him and as the vote for equality comes closer, those issues and his anxiety take hold.
Eric is a genuine, straight forward character who is just easy to love. I definitely saw him as the foundation here but as Lorcan struggles he certainly does too. He wants to support Lorcan and be there for him, but Lorcan has to learn that he can open up to him and have that communication. Their story isn’t overly angsty, but it definitely has feeling!
I really enjoyed this book, Lorcan and Eric did make my heart so very happy! I was rooting for them and the referendum! This story has a great mix of moments that touch your heart and make you smile. It also has a wonderful message of love and acceptance that Helena Stone delivers beautifully. I am already looking forward to more in this series.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book for The Geekery Book Review.
Eric and Lorcan shared some flirting and a hot kiss before he left for three months for work, but now he’s back and it’s time to see if that chemistry between the two men is real. I loved their reunion and seeing how their relationship grows. It’s not especially easy for Lorcan, never really having had a relationship and also not really expecting to ever be in one. He doesn’t think he’s right for that kind of thing but being with Eric makes him question that belief. Lorcan is incredibly passionate about equality and is something he is fighting for, and when Eric joins in with him the two get even closer. But Lorcan has major issues with his family and their lack of acceptance of him and as the vote for equality comes closer, those issues and his anxiety take hold.
Eric is a genuine, straight forward character who is just easy to love. I definitely saw him as the foundation here but as Lorcan struggles he certainly does too. He wants to support Lorcan and be there for him, but Lorcan has to learn that he can open up to him and have that communication. Their story isn’t overly angsty, but it definitely has feeling!
I really enjoyed this book, Lorcan and Eric did make my heart so very happy! I was rooting for them and the referendum! This story has a great mix of moments that touch your heart and make you smile. It also has a wonderful message of love and acceptance that Helena Stone delivers beautifully. I am already looking forward to more in this series.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book for The Geekery Book Review.
June 6, 2017
Book & Author: Equality by Helena Stone
Rating: 4 stars
Equality, the second book in the Dublin Virtue series, can be read as a standalone but we do get to see Eric and Lorcan’s first kiss which in my opinion gives a more complete idea of these two guys.
I loved the start of the story because going through the nervousness and worry that Lorcan is feeling waiting for Eric to return from Canada gave me as a reader an immediate connection to him. Lorcan and Eric a very different people. Lorcan is much more intense especially when it comes to the dynamic of his family and him being gay. He obsesses over things that are important to him but has that worrywart and guilt thing down pat. It also gave me a better understanding with him and made my heart hurt for him. Lorcan’s grandmother was freaking fantastic! She stood by his side and spoke out against his parent's beliefs which just further endeared her to me.
Eric is quiet and the type of person that thinks things through before reacting. Now he’s back home he decides traveling isn’t for him especially since he has Lorcan there. The author’s characterization of not just Eric and Lorcan but to each secondary character was wonderfully done. She weaves each personality trait so well with the story that you feel each character in every part.
Lorcan and his struggle were what initially hooked me on this story, and his struggle with not only his family but with this new relationship was what kept me going. This story of equality that the author wrote was beautiful and touching and I recommend you give it a read.
*I received a copy of this book through http://diversereader.blogspot.com/*
Rating: 4 stars
Equality, the second book in the Dublin Virtue series, can be read as a standalone but we do get to see Eric and Lorcan’s first kiss which in my opinion gives a more complete idea of these two guys.
I loved the start of the story because going through the nervousness and worry that Lorcan is feeling waiting for Eric to return from Canada gave me as a reader an immediate connection to him. Lorcan and Eric a very different people. Lorcan is much more intense especially when it comes to the dynamic of his family and him being gay. He obsesses over things that are important to him but has that worrywart and guilt thing down pat. It also gave me a better understanding with him and made my heart hurt for him. Lorcan’s grandmother was freaking fantastic! She stood by his side and spoke out against his parent's beliefs which just further endeared her to me.
Eric is quiet and the type of person that thinks things through before reacting. Now he’s back home he decides traveling isn’t for him especially since he has Lorcan there. The author’s characterization of not just Eric and Lorcan but to each secondary character was wonderfully done. She weaves each personality trait so well with the story that you feel each character in every part.
Lorcan and his struggle were what initially hooked me on this story, and his struggle with not only his family but with this new relationship was what kept me going. This story of equality that the author wrote was beautiful and touching and I recommend you give it a read.
*I received a copy of this book through http://diversereader.blogspot.com/*
May 23, 2017
Equality by Helena Stone
4 Stars – Review by Dawn Honeycutt
We first meet Lorcan and Eric in the first book of this series, Patience. Lorcan is Troy’s best friend and Eric is Xander’s best friend. There is a peek at what may come at the end of Patience and I was looking forward to reading Lorcan and Eric’s story.
Eric is returning to Dublin after three months in Canada for work. He and Lorcan shared a very passionate kiss right before he left, but neither man is sure of how the other feels after three months have gone by. Lorcan and Eric talked all the time and are both hopeful the feelings are still there, but only time will tell.
After the first kiss is out of the way, Eric and Lorcan embark on feeling their way through a relationship, something that Lorcan has never tried before. At the same time, both men are actively involved in campaigning for the Yes Vote for Marriage Equality. There are ups and downs as Lorcan figures out how relationships work, but Eric has enough patience and love to help guide Lorcan through.
I enjoyed this book. I loved the return of Troy and Xander. The Marriage Equality storyline is near and dear to my heart as I campaigned for years in Florida to get it passed. I thought Lorcan’s way of navigating through a new relationship was very realistic especially for someone who has never been involved in a relationship. What I didn’t like about this book is the writing felt kind of stale to me. It didn’t give me the feels that I had hoped it would and that I got from Patience. Reading it, for me, was like having the story told in a monotone voice. Otherwise, this is a good addition to the Dublin Virtues Series
4 Stars – Review by Dawn Honeycutt
We first meet Lorcan and Eric in the first book of this series, Patience. Lorcan is Troy’s best friend and Eric is Xander’s best friend. There is a peek at what may come at the end of Patience and I was looking forward to reading Lorcan and Eric’s story.
Eric is returning to Dublin after three months in Canada for work. He and Lorcan shared a very passionate kiss right before he left, but neither man is sure of how the other feels after three months have gone by. Lorcan and Eric talked all the time and are both hopeful the feelings are still there, but only time will tell.
After the first kiss is out of the way, Eric and Lorcan embark on feeling their way through a relationship, something that Lorcan has never tried before. At the same time, both men are actively involved in campaigning for the Yes Vote for Marriage Equality. There are ups and downs as Lorcan figures out how relationships work, but Eric has enough patience and love to help guide Lorcan through.
I enjoyed this book. I loved the return of Troy and Xander. The Marriage Equality storyline is near and dear to my heart as I campaigned for years in Florida to get it passed. I thought Lorcan’s way of navigating through a new relationship was very realistic especially for someone who has never been involved in a relationship. What I didn’t like about this book is the writing felt kind of stale to me. It didn’t give me the feels that I had hoped it would and that I got from Patience. Reading it, for me, was like having the story told in a monotone voice. Otherwise, this is a good addition to the Dublin Virtues Series
June 13, 2017
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
We met Lorcan and Eric in book one, Patience. It was painfully clear they had chemistry but they didn't act upon it until the night before Eric left for Canada for 3 months. This book picks up when Eric returns to Dublin. You don't need to have read Patience for this to make sense, but that really was a cute book.
This one, not so much cute as .....nice. It was a good book, a nice easy read, if a little too long for a hangover cure.
Lorcan and Eric's chemistry is almost tastable off every page. It's not a matter of IF, more of WHEN they finally get their act together. And when they do, its so beautifully written!
Lorcan's lack of experience in the relationship department pulls at you. It makes for great reading.
Their story is told against the run up to, and including the vote in Ireland to legalize same sex marriages. I loved how Lorcan's parents, while staunch Irish Catholics who firmly believe that Lorcan is a living, breathing sin, they still love their son and they vote with their HEART and for their family and for Lorcan.
We are introduced to Chris, a new member of Troy's tattoo parlour team and Shane returns to Dublin. Chris and Shane have their story next.
I hope I can word better what I need to say about these, but CUTE and NICE are meant in a good way!!
Like I said, a nice easy read, too long for the hangover shelf but I did still read it in one sitting.
4 solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
We met Lorcan and Eric in book one, Patience. It was painfully clear they had chemistry but they didn't act upon it until the night before Eric left for Canada for 3 months. This book picks up when Eric returns to Dublin. You don't need to have read Patience for this to make sense, but that really was a cute book.
This one, not so much cute as .....nice. It was a good book, a nice easy read, if a little too long for a hangover cure.
Lorcan and Eric's chemistry is almost tastable off every page. It's not a matter of IF, more of WHEN they finally get their act together. And when they do, its so beautifully written!
Lorcan's lack of experience in the relationship department pulls at you. It makes for great reading.
Their story is told against the run up to, and including the vote in Ireland to legalize same sex marriages. I loved how Lorcan's parents, while staunch Irish Catholics who firmly believe that Lorcan is a living, breathing sin, they still love their son and they vote with their HEART and for their family and for Lorcan.
We are introduced to Chris, a new member of Troy's tattoo parlour team and Shane returns to Dublin. Chris and Shane have their story next.
I hope I can word better what I need to say about these, but CUTE and NICE are meant in a good way!!
Like I said, a nice easy read, too long for the hangover shelf but I did still read it in one sitting.
4 solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
July 13, 2017
Review originally published at Joyfully Jay Reviews
After dancing around each other and their mutual connection, Eric and Lorcan share their first kiss on the night before Eric leaves Dublin to work in Canada for three months. While Eric is away, the two men regularly Skype and phone one another and though Eric and Lorcan are unsure where their relationship will stand when Eric returns, they both hope they will pick up where they left off.
As it happens, Eric and Lorcan realize the spark still exists between them and on Eric’s first night back in Dublin, the men end up in the same bed. When Eric introduces Lorcan to his family the next day as his “boyfriend,” Lorcan is pleased but also reticent. He has never had a boyfriend before and has a very different relationship with his own family.
The romance between the two men develops naturally, but with the Irish referendum on marriage equality looming and Lorcan becoming heavily involved with the Yes campaign, the question is whether he can reconcile himself with the issues he has with his parents and learn to navigate his new relationship at the same time.
Equality is the second book in Helena Stone’s Dublin Virtues series. This could be read as a standalone, although I would recommend reading Patience first. It is in Patience where we initially meet Eric and Lorcan and have an insight into the interactions between them, preceding their kiss. For me, Equality continues Stone’s series perfectly, with familiar characters, the beautiful setting of Ireland, as well as Stone building upon series events, and not only those with Eric and Lorcan.
Stone’s characterization of the two men is fundamentally careful and because of this, we are able to react easily to their story. However, in my opinion, Lorcan is the more intense half of the couple and therefore, his narrative is the one I found more consuming. Stone’s stroke of genius is in creating two parents who have not rejected their son because of his sexuality, but who have unwillingly accepted him, though they refuse to meet any partner he may have. I definitely would have empathized with Lorcan if he had been turned away by his family, but the fact that Stone allows us to meet his parents and that they firmly express their disapproval just makes the equality message in the novel all the more poignant.
Lorcan has been reluctant to confront his parents because of his guilt over upsetting the family dynamic, but his Gran does this for him and she is probably my favorite character in the story. I loved her fierce support of Lorcan and Eric and the fact that she is unafraid to speak her mind. It is because of Gran’s clever scheming that Lorcan’s parents have an uncomfortable meeting with Eric, which is the first step towards Lorcan’s relationship with them changing.
Although in this story Lorcan appears to be on a journey of self-discovery, this would not be possible without Eric as a catalyst. The romance is obviously significant in Equality and I think that Stone is able to convey the intensity of the emotions between them, not only through their love-making, but as she balances their banter with more in-depth conversations. For me, though, Eric is too perfect a character, whereas Lorcan is passionate and flawed. It is not that I think the two do not make a good couple, just that I felt Lorcan unnecessarily becomes the guilty party, despite making very human mistakes.
I really like how Stone’s novel draws on a non-fictional event in recent Irish politics, the referendum on marriage equality. I do not think that knowing the outcome of the vote in 2015 affected my enjoyment of the novel in any way because I was involved in the fictional events. The most touching and eloquent moment in the lead up to the vote is Lorcan’s speech as part of the Yes campaign. For me, Stone is able to sum up, in just a few pages, what marriage equality means:
“We’re not asking for special treatment. All we want is to be treated the same way as you. This vote isn’t about whether or not you approve of homosexuality. It has nothing to do with raising or adopting children. All a yes vote would ensure is that we will be a little less separate from the rest pf society. We just want to be equal. Nothing is going to change for you. Your marriages will still be as good or as bad as they are right now – your weddings still as lavish or as simple as you want them to be. Voting yes won’t cost you anything and will give so very much.”
In our modern world, where same-sex marriage is still not legal everywhere, Stone’s Equality carries a strong and important message, which speaks to everyone, regardless of sexuality. In my opinion, this is worth more than the portrayal of Eric and Lorcan and their romance, although Stone appears to be one of those authors who can achieve it all! Equality is a definite recommendation from me!
After dancing around each other and their mutual connection, Eric and Lorcan share their first kiss on the night before Eric leaves Dublin to work in Canada for three months. While Eric is away, the two men regularly Skype and phone one another and though Eric and Lorcan are unsure where their relationship will stand when Eric returns, they both hope they will pick up where they left off.
As it happens, Eric and Lorcan realize the spark still exists between them and on Eric’s first night back in Dublin, the men end up in the same bed. When Eric introduces Lorcan to his family the next day as his “boyfriend,” Lorcan is pleased but also reticent. He has never had a boyfriend before and has a very different relationship with his own family.
The romance between the two men develops naturally, but with the Irish referendum on marriage equality looming and Lorcan becoming heavily involved with the Yes campaign, the question is whether he can reconcile himself with the issues he has with his parents and learn to navigate his new relationship at the same time.
Equality is the second book in Helena Stone’s Dublin Virtues series. This could be read as a standalone, although I would recommend reading Patience first. It is in Patience where we initially meet Eric and Lorcan and have an insight into the interactions between them, preceding their kiss. For me, Equality continues Stone’s series perfectly, with familiar characters, the beautiful setting of Ireland, as well as Stone building upon series events, and not only those with Eric and Lorcan.
Stone’s characterization of the two men is fundamentally careful and because of this, we are able to react easily to their story. However, in my opinion, Lorcan is the more intense half of the couple and therefore, his narrative is the one I found more consuming. Stone’s stroke of genius is in creating two parents who have not rejected their son because of his sexuality, but who have unwillingly accepted him, though they refuse to meet any partner he may have. I definitely would have empathized with Lorcan if he had been turned away by his family, but the fact that Stone allows us to meet his parents and that they firmly express their disapproval just makes the equality message in the novel all the more poignant.
Lorcan has been reluctant to confront his parents because of his guilt over upsetting the family dynamic, but his Gran does this for him and she is probably my favorite character in the story. I loved her fierce support of Lorcan and Eric and the fact that she is unafraid to speak her mind. It is because of Gran’s clever scheming that Lorcan’s parents have an uncomfortable meeting with Eric, which is the first step towards Lorcan’s relationship with them changing.
Although in this story Lorcan appears to be on a journey of self-discovery, this would not be possible without Eric as a catalyst. The romance is obviously significant in Equality and I think that Stone is able to convey the intensity of the emotions between them, not only through their love-making, but as she balances their banter with more in-depth conversations. For me, though, Eric is too perfect a character, whereas Lorcan is passionate and flawed. It is not that I think the two do not make a good couple, just that I felt Lorcan unnecessarily becomes the guilty party, despite making very human mistakes.
I really like how Stone’s novel draws on a non-fictional event in recent Irish politics, the referendum on marriage equality. I do not think that knowing the outcome of the vote in 2015 affected my enjoyment of the novel in any way because I was involved in the fictional events. The most touching and eloquent moment in the lead up to the vote is Lorcan’s speech as part of the Yes campaign. For me, Stone is able to sum up, in just a few pages, what marriage equality means:
“We’re not asking for special treatment. All we want is to be treated the same way as you. This vote isn’t about whether or not you approve of homosexuality. It has nothing to do with raising or adopting children. All a yes vote would ensure is that we will be a little less separate from the rest pf society. We just want to be equal. Nothing is going to change for you. Your marriages will still be as good or as bad as they are right now – your weddings still as lavish or as simple as you want them to be. Voting yes won’t cost you anything and will give so very much.”
In our modern world, where same-sex marriage is still not legal everywhere, Stone’s Equality carries a strong and important message, which speaks to everyone, regardless of sexuality. In my opinion, this is worth more than the portrayal of Eric and Lorcan and their romance, although Stone appears to be one of those authors who can achieve it all! Equality is a definite recommendation from me!
June 6, 2017
I adored Eric in this story, his patience with Lorcan was so sweet. Opposites attract is a good way to describe these two men. Eric, out and proud with his parents backing him every step of the way and then you have Lorcan, his parents are total asshats.
I loved how both men wanted to fight for Equality but how Lorcan made it a mission, IMO he "needed" it more than he wanted it.
Sweet, heartfelt story of two men wanting the same thing but each getting to the final destination their own ways.
I loved how both men wanted to fight for Equality but how Lorcan made it a mission, IMO he "needed" it more than he wanted it.
Sweet, heartfelt story of two men wanting the same thing but each getting to the final destination their own ways.
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