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Playing It Out Straight
This is first and foremost a coming out story told in two parts. The Before and After. Playing it out Straight is the before.
It started with a thought. An innocent, miniscule notion, I never believed would turn into this.
For the last two years, Kyle McKinley has been living a lie and going along with the charade he believed would make his father proud. Kyle thought he could continue playing it out straight and hide his secret. Until his family moved across country from a small coastal Maine town to Santa Monica California.
Recently, Scotty Valentin gave up all hopes of finding a boyfriend and decided to focus on his career. He'd been taught love came with a price and that price was his loss of trust.
By chance Kyle and Scotty met. For Scotty, he didn't want to fall for the same trap he kept getting himself into, but there was something different about Kyle. For Kyle, he's too afraid to admit Scotty may be the man who had all the answers he's been both running from and searching for.
It started with a thought. An innocent, miniscule notion, I never believed would turn into this.
For the last two years, Kyle McKinley has been living a lie and going along with the charade he believed would make his father proud. Kyle thought he could continue playing it out straight and hide his secret. Until his family moved across country from a small coastal Maine town to Santa Monica California.
Recently, Scotty Valentin gave up all hopes of finding a boyfriend and decided to focus on his career. He'd been taught love came with a price and that price was his loss of trust.
By chance Kyle and Scotty met. For Scotty, he didn't want to fall for the same trap he kept getting himself into, but there was something different about Kyle. For Kyle, he's too afraid to admit Scotty may be the man who had all the answers he's been both running from and searching for.
358 pages, Paperback
Published June 7, 2020
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63 people want to read
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December 17, 2020Price drop to $0.99 at Amazon US, 12/1/20!
June 6, 2020
Playing It Out Straight, by Andrew McQuinn, is a wonderful coming of age tale. This is one of those books that sucks you in immediately, with it's gripping opening sentence and gentle tone.
Written in first person pov, this is Kyle's story through and through. The reader is easily brought into Kyle's mind throughout his struggles with coming out.
This is a story of family issues, defining one's sexuality, and the fear of coming out. It's a story with bullying and a whole lot of fears and doubts. And it's a story of a boy who wants his father's approval.
The main character, Kyle, is written in a genuine manner, with plenty of authenticity given to his words. Good god, my heart hurts for Kyle at times. I felt his pain in my own heart.
I am extremely impressed with this debut novel. The author's writing style perfectly matches my taste. The dialogue is excellent, both interesting, natural, and important to the storyline. There are some great side characters as well.
Another constant in this story is the atmospheric elements of Maine. The author excels in bringing the feel of the land and town to the reader.
This is a tender coming out story, with important messages. This is one of those books I would recommend to someone who needs some encouragement through their similar struggle.
Playing It Out Straight is a heartfelt tale of finding one's way out of the closet. This Andrew McQuinn read is impressive on it's own, let alone for a debut author. I look forward to the next book to see what comes next for Kyle.
Written in first person pov, this is Kyle's story through and through. The reader is easily brought into Kyle's mind throughout his struggles with coming out.
This is a story of family issues, defining one's sexuality, and the fear of coming out. It's a story with bullying and a whole lot of fears and doubts. And it's a story of a boy who wants his father's approval.
The main character, Kyle, is written in a genuine manner, with plenty of authenticity given to his words. Good god, my heart hurts for Kyle at times. I felt his pain in my own heart.
I am extremely impressed with this debut novel. The author's writing style perfectly matches my taste. The dialogue is excellent, both interesting, natural, and important to the storyline. There are some great side characters as well.
Another constant in this story is the atmospheric elements of Maine. The author excels in bringing the feel of the land and town to the reader.
This is a tender coming out story, with important messages. This is one of those books I would recommend to someone who needs some encouragement through their similar struggle.
Playing It Out Straight is a heartfelt tale of finding one's way out of the closet. This Andrew McQuinn read is impressive on it's own, let alone for a debut author. I look forward to the next book to see what comes next for Kyle.
November 14, 2020
This one will pull at your heart strings. It's a coming out story. Or the start of one. It's a journey of a young man who is discovering who he really is and having to accept that not all his family is happy about it. It's learning to be himself in the best and worst of times and knowing that there are people who have his back no matter what. It's not an all sunshine and roses story. Not everyone's coming out is easy. It also kind of ends in a cliffhanger. A little one. But it's still a good story. And I hope the second one will finally resolve some issues.
February 25, 2021
Whoa! Did not expect this to be as good as it was.
This is the "Before" story, now have to wait for the "After" (coming out) story.
This is the "Before" story, now have to wait for the "After" (coming out) story.
June 9, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this ‘Before’ part of Kyle’s coming out story, as he weighs all of his options about coming out to his family. His struggles with coming out are similar to those of every LGBTQ+ kid – denial, bargaining, experimentation, a willingness to please others in exchange for love and acceptance… and thrown into this mix is a cross country move with his family, and meeting a guy whom he is attracted to and with whom he feels an emotional connection he suspects could be important. Through it all, Kyle’s humanity shines through and you are with him every step of the way, cheering him on and ready to share in his triumphs. I’m really looking forward to the ‘After’ sequel.
June 9, 2020
This story was a pleasure to read from start to finish, in fact I read it all in one go as I couldn't put it down.
The way it is written really draws you in.. You feel the emotions of Kyle and his connections and tensions with the other characters, The book sucked me in so much I felt like I was living it.
Andrew's writing style takes you back to your own experiences of being a teenager. The awkwardness and newness of growing up and dealing with your own emotions and experiences, to the point, I found myself emotional reading the book which included tears of happiness for the main character and tears of heartbreak when it came to the scenes with his father.
A thought provoking, heartwarming story of a young man's journey accepting his sexuality.
The attention to detail in the characters surroundings really helps to complete the picture you form in your head and immerses you into the story more.
I came away feeling pensive and more than anything excited to read the next chapter in Kyle's journey.
This was a fantastic read. It has the love story, the overcoming hardship and the comedy every good book needs.
I would recommend this book to everyone from all different walks of life. It gives you an in depth insight into what it truly is like to deal with growing up and being confused with your own sexuality and also shows you the wrong and right of how to deal with a person going through it.
The way it is written really draws you in.. You feel the emotions of Kyle and his connections and tensions with the other characters, The book sucked me in so much I felt like I was living it.
Andrew's writing style takes you back to your own experiences of being a teenager. The awkwardness and newness of growing up and dealing with your own emotions and experiences, to the point, I found myself emotional reading the book which included tears of happiness for the main character and tears of heartbreak when it came to the scenes with his father.
A thought provoking, heartwarming story of a young man's journey accepting his sexuality.
The attention to detail in the characters surroundings really helps to complete the picture you form in your head and immerses you into the story more.
I came away feeling pensive and more than anything excited to read the next chapter in Kyle's journey.
This was a fantastic read. It has the love story, the overcoming hardship and the comedy every good book needs.
I would recommend this book to everyone from all different walks of life. It gives you an in depth insight into what it truly is like to deal with growing up and being confused with your own sexuality and also shows you the wrong and right of how to deal with a person going through it.
June 7, 2020
Andrew McQuinn is a bright young author with a promising future. I want to begin by saying that this isn’t my typical genre, but I’m always open to new books, so when I was approached to read this book, I gave it a shot. Boy am I glad that I did! So often books have a dry beginning or they’re just hard to get into. This book was just the opposite. It was interesting right from the start and kept my interest until the very end. I’m being honest when I say that I read the entire book in ONE day. It was such a page turner that I literally could NOT put it down. If you want a well written summer read that will take you on an emotional journey with tears, anger, laughter and joy, then this book is for you!
Following Kyle on his journey to find out who he really is and what he wants in life is truly inspiring. Watching the bond form between Kyle and Scotty was beautiful. With a surprise ending and some minor twists and turns throughout the way this story was captivating from beginning to end. I strongly recommend this sweet and steamy coming of age story to anyone and everyone!
Following Kyle on his journey to find out who he really is and what he wants in life is truly inspiring. Watching the bond form between Kyle and Scotty was beautiful. With a surprise ending and some minor twists and turns throughout the way this story was captivating from beginning to end. I strongly recommend this sweet and steamy coming of age story to anyone and everyone!
June 8, 2020
A beautiful, well written story of a conflicted teenager trying to figure out his sexuality, and terrified of coming out to anyone, especially his family. Originally from a quiet island town in Maine, Kyle and his family are uprooted to L.A. by Kyle's father. In L.A., Kyle meets Scotty Valentin, and there were immediate fireworks between them. Scotty is out and proud but Kyle couldn't bring himself to tell anyone that he too is gay. This story details the process by which Kyle slowly learns to accept who he is and begins to come out to his friends and siblings. The hardest part though, is coming out to his parents, especially his homophobic father. Although the ending is not a cliffhanger, there are some loose ends which are not neatly tied up, but there will be a sequel. This book is part 1 of a two-part series. I'm looking forward to the release of said second book, to see the continuation of the story.
June 3, 2020
I received this ARC for an honest review.
Andrew McQuinn is a new author with a captivating writing style. Playing it out Straight is one of those books that keeps you captivated from the first word to the last. I had difficulty stopping once I got started reading it. The story takes you into the lives of Kyle and Scotty: one finding his way and the other helping him get there. From the beginning of the book to the end, I had a continuous feeling of hope for both characters to find their happiness. The plot was well developed and very thought-provoking. You can feel the struggles both MC's continuously throughout especially Kyle. His character will tug at your heartstrings and make you want to fight for him. I will also honestly say the ending was unpredictable. I look forward to more of Andrew's writing.
Andrew McQuinn is a new author with a captivating writing style. Playing it out Straight is one of those books that keeps you captivated from the first word to the last. I had difficulty stopping once I got started reading it. The story takes you into the lives of Kyle and Scotty: one finding his way and the other helping him get there. From the beginning of the book to the end, I had a continuous feeling of hope for both characters to find their happiness. The plot was well developed and very thought-provoking. You can feel the struggles both MC's continuously throughout especially Kyle. His character will tug at your heartstrings and make you want to fight for him. I will also honestly say the ending was unpredictable. I look forward to more of Andrew's writing.
June 7, 2020
This debut book is the first mm book that I have read that explores what one young man goes through when he realises that he may be different from the norm. As if there aren’t enough things one is trying to figure out as a teenager with hormones raging and trying to become an adult. We are treated to a front row seat of the roller coaster of emotions that plagues young Kyle and how this affects his daily life at home and at school.
It is a slow burn with recurring thoughts as Kyle tries to work through, accept and come to terms with these new feelings. All this whilst he and his family move to Santa Monica where he needs to to make new friends, start a new school and even explore new crushes! Reading Kyle’s story had me remembering back to my teenage days when everything was so innocent with lots of firsts but so overwhelming at the same time. I enjoyed the secondary characters and felt they really added to this story. I found I couldn’t put it down and I look forward to book two to find out what happens next in this brave young man’s life.
I was given an advanced readers copy of this book and this is my review and recommendation.
It is a slow burn with recurring thoughts as Kyle tries to work through, accept and come to terms with these new feelings. All this whilst he and his family move to Santa Monica where he needs to to make new friends, start a new school and even explore new crushes! Reading Kyle’s story had me remembering back to my teenage days when everything was so innocent with lots of firsts but so overwhelming at the same time. I enjoyed the secondary characters and felt they really added to this story. I found I couldn’t put it down and I look forward to book two to find out what happens next in this brave young man’s life.
I was given an advanced readers copy of this book and this is my review and recommendation.
January 20, 2021
Wow! This is the author's first book and of course my first time with this author and oh wow it won’t be the last. The book is so beautifully written, the characters compelling and the story very realistic.
Playing it Out Straight is a YA story of finding one’s sexuality, dealing with it, and coming out. Kyle and his family move to California because his dad wrote a book that has been made into a movie. He meets actor Scotty that confirms his feelings but now he has to come out to friends and family. He is afraid his dad will reject him, worse kick him out.
This is a beautiful story of what a person feels as they deal with their sexual identity and security of life.
I cannot wait for the next story!
If you like YA, coming out and a plain awesome romance this is fabulous.
Playing it Out Straight is a YA story of finding one’s sexuality, dealing with it, and coming out. Kyle and his family move to California because his dad wrote a book that has been made into a movie. He meets actor Scotty that confirms his feelings but now he has to come out to friends and family. He is afraid his dad will reject him, worse kick him out.
This is a beautiful story of what a person feels as they deal with their sexual identity and security of life.
I cannot wait for the next story!
If you like YA, coming out and a plain awesome romance this is fabulous.
June 6, 2020
Playing It Out Straight by Andrew McQuinn is a story told from the perspective of a young person called Kyle who moves with his family from a small town in Maine to Santa Monica, California. While that move alone is a lot for someone to deal with, we also follow his journey in coming to terms with his sexuality, the fear of coming out, bullying, finding allies, and first love.
The author is true to the story of so many LGBTQIA+ young people and their stories of coming out. I found myself empathising with the main character, and cheering him along in his journey.
This isn't normally the type of book that I would normally read, however, I found the way the author told Kyle's story moving. It's definitely something I would reccomend to someone who wants to understand or someone who is going through something similar.
Cannot wait for the next book!
The author is true to the story of so many LGBTQIA+ young people and their stories of coming out. I found myself empathising with the main character, and cheering him along in his journey.
This isn't normally the type of book that I would normally read, however, I found the way the author told Kyle's story moving. It's definitely something I would reccomend to someone who wants to understand or someone who is going through something similar.
Cannot wait for the next book!
August 15, 2020
Oh i love this book so much. The characters are so lovable except the butthead dad. But Kyle and Scotty oh my goodness loveeee them. Kyle is discovering who he is and what his sexual preference is. He thinks he is bi or gay but is not sure which. But after meeting Scotty he knows but is in denial and trying to live under the expectations of his father who has made it know he wont have a gay son. Will Kyle have the courage to embrace who he is and fall in love with Scotty. You have to read to find out but this book is amazing. I can wait for book two.
June 5, 2020
I have to say I'm pretty impressed about this book from a new author. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Normally I prefer a fast paced book but I rather enjoyed the journey this young man goes through in coming out. I enjoyed the characters and their witty banter. I enjoyed reading his perspective with every step he took and all of his experiences with his first relationship.
This book is very realistic and believable.
This book is very realistic and believable.
June 8, 2020
This was such an amazing book! I couldn’t stop reading and ended up reading it from start to finish, twice!! I felt so connected with Kyle on a variety of levels, and through the whole book, it felt like I was right there with him, following his story. Definitely a top read in my book list and will be reading it again!!!
Read
February 28, 2021This is a great little read. It's also good for your teenagers. I would've classified this as YA romance. :)
July 19, 2020
A wonderful debut
This book is a delight. The authenticity shines on every page, and I couldn't stop turning them. I loved the characters, felt their emotions and understood them so well. There's not a false note anywhere. This book will help so many kids who are struggling with growing up gay and bring back so many feelings for those like me for whom these things are distant but still painful memories. Thoroughly recommended!
This book is a delight. The authenticity shines on every page, and I couldn't stop turning them. I loved the characters, felt their emotions and understood them so well. There's not a false note anywhere. This book will help so many kids who are struggling with growing up gay and bring back so many feelings for those like me for whom these things are distant but still painful memories. Thoroughly recommended!
June 1, 2021
Reviewed by Taylin 4 1/4 hearts
Kyle is a confused wallflower at a small-town high school. He’s on the brink of discovering his sexuality. However, Kyle has no hard evidence to back up his thoughts. When his family suddenly moves to LA, he believes it’s his chance to discover more. There, Kyle crosses paths with Scotty, and attraction blooms. Unfortunately, his father has ingrained beliefs on homosexuality.
Kyle faces an internal battle between mind, body, hormones, and a controlling father. What follows is a delightful story that I would say is a recommended read for anyone who likes coming out stories or wants insight into the dilemma.
Here, I also think it is best to highlight a section from the blurb
‘All coming out stories are told in two parts
The Before and After…’
The manuscript is a full-length novel, and there is no indication from the cover that it is part of a duology tale. The blurb says it is a story of two halves, but confusion can remain. We are talking about two separate manuscripts. The first ‘before’ novel is Playing It Out Straight, the second ‘after’ book is Living It Out Gay coming in 2021.
The whole story is told in Kyle’s voice – in the first person. He is a thinker, so there is a lot of internal monologue between dialogue. He self-analyzes and is obsessed with his first male kiss. Kyle also craves love and acceptance from his family – striving to secure it before revealing anything. His stumbling block is his homophobic controlling father.
The extended cast is typical for this genre, as in there’s the female best friend, school dicks, homophobic dad, insightful mom, various siblings, etc. My favorite is Kyle’s twin brother Stephen – I wanted to munch him.
As for the main protagonists, Kyle and Scotty, I’ve already said, Kyle is a thinker with an artistic side. He has a lot on his mind, which can tie him in knots, causing a hefty dose of insecurity. He also has a definite sense of what he wants, under what circumstances, and when the time is right. Scotty is interesting. For a recognizable actor, he’s a total darling. There doesn’t seem to be an ounce of ego, and is Kyle’s rock, though their time apart for shoots is a strain on their relationship.
Throughout, there are plenty of instances where Kyle initiates meaningful conversations that get derailed for one reason or another. After a while, this pattern became a little annoying. Nevertheless, I found this story to be a detailed, slow burn, super insightful novel surrounding the anxiety and thoughts of a young man on the brink of discovering his sexuality and when to come out. It is an absorbing page-turner.
Kyle is a confused wallflower at a small-town high school. He’s on the brink of discovering his sexuality. However, Kyle has no hard evidence to back up his thoughts. When his family suddenly moves to LA, he believes it’s his chance to discover more. There, Kyle crosses paths with Scotty, and attraction blooms. Unfortunately, his father has ingrained beliefs on homosexuality.
Kyle faces an internal battle between mind, body, hormones, and a controlling father. What follows is a delightful story that I would say is a recommended read for anyone who likes coming out stories or wants insight into the dilemma.
Here, I also think it is best to highlight a section from the blurb
‘All coming out stories are told in two parts
The Before and After…’
The manuscript is a full-length novel, and there is no indication from the cover that it is part of a duology tale. The blurb says it is a story of two halves, but confusion can remain. We are talking about two separate manuscripts. The first ‘before’ novel is Playing It Out Straight, the second ‘after’ book is Living It Out Gay coming in 2021.
The whole story is told in Kyle’s voice – in the first person. He is a thinker, so there is a lot of internal monologue between dialogue. He self-analyzes and is obsessed with his first male kiss. Kyle also craves love and acceptance from his family – striving to secure it before revealing anything. His stumbling block is his homophobic controlling father.
The extended cast is typical for this genre, as in there’s the female best friend, school dicks, homophobic dad, insightful mom, various siblings, etc. My favorite is Kyle’s twin brother Stephen – I wanted to munch him.
As for the main protagonists, Kyle and Scotty, I’ve already said, Kyle is a thinker with an artistic side. He has a lot on his mind, which can tie him in knots, causing a hefty dose of insecurity. He also has a definite sense of what he wants, under what circumstances, and when the time is right. Scotty is interesting. For a recognizable actor, he’s a total darling. There doesn’t seem to be an ounce of ego, and is Kyle’s rock, though their time apart for shoots is a strain on their relationship.
Throughout, there are plenty of instances where Kyle initiates meaningful conversations that get derailed for one reason or another. After a while, this pattern became a little annoying. Nevertheless, I found this story to be a detailed, slow burn, super insightful novel surrounding the anxiety and thoughts of a young man on the brink of discovering his sexuality and when to come out. It is an absorbing page-turner.
May 28, 2021
I read this book on behalf of Love Bytes and gave it a 4.25 rating.
Kyle is a confused wallflower at a small-town high school. He’s on the brink of discovering his sexuality. However, Kyle has no hard evidence to back up his thoughts. When his family suddenly moves to LA, he believes it’s his chance to discover more. There, Kyle crosses paths with Scotty, and attraction blooms. Unfortunately, his father has ingrained beliefs on homosexuality.
Kyle faces an internal battle between mind, body, hormones, and a controlling father. What follows is a delightful story that I would say is a recommended read for anyone who likes coming out stories or wants insight into the dilemma.
Here, I also think it is best to highlight a section from the blurb
‘All coming out stories are told in two parts
The Before and After…’
The manuscript is a full-length novel, and there is no indication from the cover that it is part of a duology tale. The blurb says it is a story of two halves, but confusion can remain. We are talking about two separate manuscripts. The first ‘before’ novel is Playing It Out Straight, the second ‘after’ book is Living It Out Gay coming in 2021.
The whole story is told in Kyle’s voice – in the first person. He is a thinker, so there is a lot of internal monologue between dialogue. He self-analyzes and is obsessed with his first male kiss. Kyle also craves love and acceptance from his family - striving to secure it before revealing anything. His stumbling block is his homophobic controlling father.
The extended cast is typical for this genre, as in there’s the female best friend, school dicks, homophobic dad, insightful mom, various siblings, etc. My favorite is Kyle’s twin brother Stephen – I wanted to munch him.
As for the main protagonists, Kyle and Scotty, I’ve already said, Kyle is a thinker with an artistic side. He has a lot on his mind, which can tie him in knots, causing a hefty dose of insecurity. He also has a definite sense of what he wants, under what circumstances, and when the time is right. Scotty is interesting. For a recognizable actor, he’s a total darling. There doesn’t seem to be an ounce of ego, and is Kyle’s rock, though their time apart for shoots is a strain on their relationship.
Throughout, there are plenty of instances where Kyle initiates meaningful conversations that get derailed for one reason or another. After a while, this pattern became a little annoying. Nevertheless, I found this story to be a detailed, slow burn, super insightful novel surrounding the anxiety and thoughts of a young man on the brink of discovering his sexuality and when to come out. It is an absorbing page-turner.
Kyle is a confused wallflower at a small-town high school. He’s on the brink of discovering his sexuality. However, Kyle has no hard evidence to back up his thoughts. When his family suddenly moves to LA, he believes it’s his chance to discover more. There, Kyle crosses paths with Scotty, and attraction blooms. Unfortunately, his father has ingrained beliefs on homosexuality.
Kyle faces an internal battle between mind, body, hormones, and a controlling father. What follows is a delightful story that I would say is a recommended read for anyone who likes coming out stories or wants insight into the dilemma.
Here, I also think it is best to highlight a section from the blurb
‘All coming out stories are told in two parts
The Before and After…’
The manuscript is a full-length novel, and there is no indication from the cover that it is part of a duology tale. The blurb says it is a story of two halves, but confusion can remain. We are talking about two separate manuscripts. The first ‘before’ novel is Playing It Out Straight, the second ‘after’ book is Living It Out Gay coming in 2021.
The whole story is told in Kyle’s voice – in the first person. He is a thinker, so there is a lot of internal monologue between dialogue. He self-analyzes and is obsessed with his first male kiss. Kyle also craves love and acceptance from his family - striving to secure it before revealing anything. His stumbling block is his homophobic controlling father.
The extended cast is typical for this genre, as in there’s the female best friend, school dicks, homophobic dad, insightful mom, various siblings, etc. My favorite is Kyle’s twin brother Stephen – I wanted to munch him.
As for the main protagonists, Kyle and Scotty, I’ve already said, Kyle is a thinker with an artistic side. He has a lot on his mind, which can tie him in knots, causing a hefty dose of insecurity. He also has a definite sense of what he wants, under what circumstances, and when the time is right. Scotty is interesting. For a recognizable actor, he’s a total darling. There doesn’t seem to be an ounce of ego, and is Kyle’s rock, though their time apart for shoots is a strain on their relationship.
Throughout, there are plenty of instances where Kyle initiates meaningful conversations that get derailed for one reason or another. After a while, this pattern became a little annoying. Nevertheless, I found this story to be a detailed, slow burn, super insightful novel surrounding the anxiety and thoughts of a young man on the brink of discovering his sexuality and when to come out. It is an absorbing page-turner.
October 26, 2020
4.5 Stars. A debut author with this book and one to watch in the future.
A story told about young Kyle who was 17 and figuring out his sexuality. A move to the other side of the country with his family but not before a house party. Dear Dad had more then one surprises install for them all and not all good.
When Kyle meets 19 yr Scotty things fall into place but with a few dramas and mishaps . This is a great and beautifully written story told with Kyle's POV. I really enjoyed reading this although I would've loved Scotty's thoughts to connect with them both. I didn't like Kyle's father at all.. Includes homophobia and bullying. A small cliffhanger with the story of Kyle and Scotty to continue.
Kyle was a twin, and loved anything art related.
A story told about young Kyle who was 17 and figuring out his sexuality. A move to the other side of the country with his family but not before a house party. Dear Dad had more then one surprises install for them all and not all good.
When Kyle meets 19 yr Scotty things fall into place but with a few dramas and mishaps . This is a great and beautifully written story told with Kyle's POV. I really enjoyed reading this although I would've loved Scotty's thoughts to connect with them both. I didn't like Kyle's father at all.. Includes homophobia and bullying. A small cliffhanger with the story of Kyle and Scotty to continue.
Kyle was a twin, and loved anything art related.
December 18, 2022
There are books that stay with you. They resonate in your head and your heart. This is one of those. Our hero is a young teenager who has struggled with finding his place in the world. He is an artist, and that point is important for the story as the author paints landscapes and emotions with his words. You feel yourself wanting to give the hero a hug and let him know that he will be okay. You want to tell him that his fears are also his father's fears.
We understand that his father has a story that peeks out now and then, and we stand by patiently to hear what it is. We know it will unlock both of their hearts so they can meet again.
An excellent book by a new author! Definitely an author I will follow to see what brilliance he comes out with next.
We understand that his father has a story that peeks out now and then, and we stand by patiently to hear what it is. We know it will unlock both of their hearts so they can meet again.
An excellent book by a new author! Definitely an author I will follow to see what brilliance he comes out with next.
January 27, 2021
The joys and fears of going from teen to young adult
All the doubts, fears, butterflies-in-the-gut, wonder, joy, and despair of those changing moments in life, when we go from being just a questioning kid to becoming a grown individual with no answers for the questions.
Beautifully written, with the entire focus of the story in the deep emotional turmoil both growing up and also discovering that what one really feels, really is, may not be accepted by those who are closest and most important.
Part one of a two part story, as mentioned in the blurb, covering most of the coming out of a gay youth as he gradually, and very happily, comes to terms who he is and where he wants to be in life. Great character development, in preparation for much more!
Very insightful moments on the unavoidable bully, and suggestive insight about the strict father render a bit of sadness to the otherwise cozy, cuddly, fuzzy-warm feels of the narrative.
All the doubts, fears, butterflies-in-the-gut, wonder, joy, and despair of those changing moments in life, when we go from being just a questioning kid to becoming a grown individual with no answers for the questions.
Beautifully written, with the entire focus of the story in the deep emotional turmoil both growing up and also discovering that what one really feels, really is, may not be accepted by those who are closest and most important.
Part one of a two part story, as mentioned in the blurb, covering most of the coming out of a gay youth as he gradually, and very happily, comes to terms who he is and where he wants to be in life. Great character development, in preparation for much more!
Very insightful moments on the unavoidable bully, and suggestive insight about the strict father render a bit of sadness to the otherwise cozy, cuddly, fuzzy-warm feels of the narrative.
June 8, 2020
I COULDN'T PUT THIS BOOK DOWN!
Playing it out straight is an incredibly written coming of age story. Written from first person point of view of young adult Kyle, a high schooler who is just trying to figure out who he is in this world. From crushes, hormones, parental pressures, moving cross country, first love, bullying and self acceptance.
I laughed, cried, and felt every emotion that Kyle did. All the characters/scenes are so well written to the point where I was transported off my couch and into Kyle's world. Definitely a must read!
Playing it out straight is an incredibly written coming of age story. Written from first person point of view of young adult Kyle, a high schooler who is just trying to figure out who he is in this world. From crushes, hormones, parental pressures, moving cross country, first love, bullying and self acceptance.
I laughed, cried, and felt every emotion that Kyle did. All the characters/scenes are so well written to the point where I was transported off my couch and into Kyle's world. Definitely a must read!
June 26, 2020
I need more!!
Addictive, emotional roller coaster, and amazingly written story by a new author that is one of my favorites!!
This is a book that every teen should read. The struggle to find yourself is real and it was comforting to read other people felt the same.
Kyle and Scotty are just adorable together. I can’t wait fir the next book!! I’m really hoping things work out between them and Scotty is Kyles one and only.
Addictive, emotional roller coaster, and amazingly written story by a new author that is one of my favorites!!
This is a book that every teen should read. The struggle to find yourself is real and it was comforting to read other people felt the same.
Kyle and Scotty are just adorable together. I can’t wait fir the next book!! I’m really hoping things work out between them and Scotty is Kyles one and only.
June 9, 2020
Such an amazing story! Andrew perfectly captures the struggle any teenager goes through on their path to finding themselves! His writing style totally had me feeling like I was main character and going through all the emotions with him! I can’t wait for the sequel!
June 10, 2020
WOW. I m super glad i didnt pass this book by in the ARC group. It is an amazing start for Andrew McQuinn and I really enjoyed just everything. I was surprised how enthralling the story is and how we can hear Kyle's thoughts. I m hoping that this is not just one and done .
January 12, 2022
To drawn out and repetitive for me.
March 23, 2022
Sweet story about a young man journeying from avoiding his life and playing it safe to choosing that he needed to be the person he was meant to be. Starts in maine which i love, and mostly in Santa Monica, where R grew up. A great read
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