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True Colors #2
Out of Character
It's friends-to-enemies-to-friends-to-lovers in this LGBTQIA+ Romance for fans of Red, White & Royal Blue and The Pros of Cons who enjoy:
• Ex-best-friends falling in love
• Gaming, conventions, fandom & cosplay
• Nerd culture at its finest
• Learning how to be true to yourself
Jasper Quigley is tired of being everyone's favorite sidekick. He wants to become the hero of his own life, but that's not going to happen if he agrees to help out his former best friend turned king of the jocks, Milo Lionetti. High school was miserable enough, thanks, and Jasper has no interest in dredging up painful memories of his old secret crush.
But Milo's got nowhere else to go. His life is spiraling out of control and he's looking to turn things back around. Step one? Replace the rare Odyssey cards he lost in an idiotic bet. Step two? Tell his ex-best-friend exactly how he feels—how he's always felt.
Jasper may be reluctant to reopen old wounds, but he never could resist Milo. There's a catch, though: if Milo wants his help, he's going to have to pitch in to make the upcoming children's hospital charity ball the best ever. But as the two don cosplay for the kids and hunt for rare cards, nostalgia for their lost friendship may turn into something even more lasting...
• Ex-best-friends falling in love
• Gaming, conventions, fandom & cosplay
• Nerd culture at its finest
• Learning how to be true to yourself
Jasper Quigley is tired of being everyone's favorite sidekick. He wants to become the hero of his own life, but that's not going to happen if he agrees to help out his former best friend turned king of the jocks, Milo Lionetti. High school was miserable enough, thanks, and Jasper has no interest in dredging up painful memories of his old secret crush.
But Milo's got nowhere else to go. His life is spiraling out of control and he's looking to turn things back around. Step one? Replace the rare Odyssey cards he lost in an idiotic bet. Step two? Tell his ex-best-friend exactly how he feels—how he's always felt.
Jasper may be reluctant to reopen old wounds, but he never could resist Milo. There's a catch, though: if Milo wants his help, he's going to have to pitch in to make the upcoming children's hospital charity ball the best ever. But as the two don cosplay for the kids and hunt for rare cards, nostalgia for their lost friendship may turn into something even more lasting...
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2021
242 people are currently reading
11296 people want to read
About the author
Annabeth Albert
110 books3,754 followersFrequent tweeter, professional grammar nerd, and obsessive reader, Annabeth Albert is also a Pacific Northwest romance writer in a variety of subgenres.
Emotionally complex, sexy, and funny stories are her favorites both to read and to write. In between searching out dark heroes to redeem, she works a rewarding day job and wrangles two toddlers.
Emotionally complex, sexy, and funny stories are her favorites both to read and to write. In between searching out dark heroes to redeem, she works a rewarding day job and wrangles two toddlers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 929 reviews
July 7, 2021
Fun, geeky, and surprisingly sexy, Out of Character was the gamer book I was hoping to get from Annabeth Albert.
Honestly, I was a little wary to read Out of Character because I didn't love Conventionally Yours, but this book worked better for me and ticked a few more of my boxes.
Yes, I know I have a bit of a hang-up with first time sexual experiences, but I love me a first kiss, first everything. Right off the bat, Annabeth Albert hooked me. You devious author, you.
Friends-to-enemies-to-lovers can sometimes work, sometimes go the wrong way, but I think the author did a nice job here. I love some grovel porn, and though we get a good amount of groveling, I think it could have used even been a *tiny bit* more. Still, pretty satisfying.
I liked the detail of Milo's probable learning disability. As a parent of kids who are neurodiverse with learning disabilities, I always feel very connected to a character who struggles academically. It helped me connect to Milo, who really grew on me over time.
I'm not a gamer at all, and card games are mysterious and non-sensical to me, but I enjoyed the gamer details in this book more than the first in the series. I liked how it was framed like a quest, and it made it feel exciting and not draggy.
Also, the book was a bit sexier than I was expecting. For some reason, I expected this book to be completely fade-to-black, and I was pleased that we got a little heat and a taste of the hot writing that I know Annabeth Albert is capable of.
While Out of Character doesn't rank amongst my favorites from Annabeth Albert, it was a very fun, easy contemporary read for new adult romance lovers.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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Honestly, I was a little wary to read Out of Character because I didn't love Conventionally Yours, but this book worked better for me and ticked a few more of my boxes.
Yes, I know I have a bit of a hang-up with first time sexual experiences, but I love me a first kiss, first everything. Right off the bat, Annabeth Albert hooked me. You devious author, you.
Friends-to-enemies-to-lovers can sometimes work, sometimes go the wrong way, but I think the author did a nice job here. I love some grovel porn, and though we get a good amount of groveling, I think it could have used even been a *tiny bit* more. Still, pretty satisfying.
I liked the detail of Milo's probable learning disability. As a parent of kids who are neurodiverse with learning disabilities, I always feel very connected to a character who struggles academically. It helped me connect to Milo, who really grew on me over time.
I'm not a gamer at all, and card games are mysterious and non-sensical to me, but I enjoyed the gamer details in this book more than the first in the series. I liked how it was framed like a quest, and it made it feel exciting and not draggy.
Also, the book was a bit sexier than I was expecting. For some reason, I expected this book to be completely fade-to-black, and I was pleased that we got a little heat and a taste of the hot writing that I know Annabeth Albert is capable of.
While Out of Character doesn't rank amongst my favorites from Annabeth Albert, it was a very fun, easy contemporary read for new adult romance lovers.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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July 4, 2021
Out of Character by Annabeth Albert
2nd book of the True Colors series. New Adult M-M romance.
Milo lost his brother’s rare game cards. He gets help from Jason trying to replace the cards. As they search, their relationship grows to friendship, sex and love.
Not really a coming out story. More a first relationship story. Milo already knows he prefers men but he’s never pursued it. Until Jasper.
Some live lessons and growing up for these twenty-somethings.
Slight emotional relationship angst and learning self-confidence. The romance was on the sweet side but still R rated, though not explicit. A happy for now that included family in the equation and the potential for future growth.
I enjoyed the return to the gaming world though some of the terms may have gone over my head.
Overall engaging and a satisfying romantic experience.
🎧 I listened to an audio version of this book. It was narrated by Kirt Graves and Joel Froomkin who also did the first book in this series. Their voices are complimentary but different enough to know which of the character POV it was in the alternating chapters. One was a bit east coast accent. Both voices fit the early 20’s age of the men and they made all the secondary characters unique with differing accents although neither were great at the female voices. Emotions of hopefulness, lust and worry are well modulated and expressed. I found the speed of 1.25 the most comfortable which is pretty much the standard for me.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. Thank you to #SourcebooksCasablanca and #DreamscapeMedia
2nd book of the True Colors series. New Adult M-M romance.
Milo lost his brother’s rare game cards. He gets help from Jason trying to replace the cards. As they search, their relationship grows to friendship, sex and love.
Not really a coming out story. More a first relationship story. Milo already knows he prefers men but he’s never pursued it. Until Jasper.
Some live lessons and growing up for these twenty-somethings.
Slight emotional relationship angst and learning self-confidence. The romance was on the sweet side but still R rated, though not explicit. A happy for now that included family in the equation and the potential for future growth.
I enjoyed the return to the gaming world though some of the terms may have gone over my head.
Overall engaging and a satisfying romantic experience.
🎧 I listened to an audio version of this book. It was narrated by Kirt Graves and Joel Froomkin who also did the first book in this series. Their voices are complimentary but different enough to know which of the character POV it was in the alternating chapters. One was a bit east coast accent. Both voices fit the early 20’s age of the men and they made all the secondary characters unique with differing accents although neither were great at the female voices. Emotions of hopefulness, lust and worry are well modulated and expressed. I found the speed of 1.25 the most comfortable which is pretty much the standard for me.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. Thank you to #SourcebooksCasablanca and #DreamscapeMedia
August 11, 2021
2.5 stars.
This book had such a cute premise but I was sadly disappointed.
I'll first mention the things that I loved. I LOVED the incorporation of the hospital visits. It was an extremely heart-warming element & showed a lot about what Jasper is like as a person, I wished it got more page-time. It was probably my favourite part of the book. Jasper's personality really stood out during his interactions with his fellow gamers, his confidence when he games made him feel a lot more animated than normal, so I really appreciated the cosplay/gamer aspect of this book.
Milo also goes through an inspiring arc throughout this book & I did feel for him. Seeing him come out of the closet wasn't an easy process but I felt proud of his growth throughout the book, going from a self-deprecating closeted gay boy to being more confident & outspoken. In that way, the relationship was great as Jasper truly rubbed off on Milo in all the best ways. There was also a very present plot-line which is something I absolutely appreciate in romance novels like this.
I can see gamers & cosplayers loving this book very much!
The biggest problem for me was the lack of chemistry between the two love interests. I did not feel the emotional connection & their attraction was weighed down by a lot of past baggage that were never really resolved but simply pushed away because they loved each other. Their lack of chemistry made their relationship feel a little forced & empty. Consequently, I wasn't very invested in the romance aspect at all & caused the book to feel extremely dragged out.
Perhaps 100 pages could be taken out & the story would remain the same.
The reason I couldn't get into the story was also partly due to the writing. The writing felt very much like teen fiction which should not be the case as the characters are 22 years old. The explicit scenes also felt out of place & I was caught off-guard. I did not expect that since the writing was very teenage-like, & I was expecting YA. So this really took away from the depth & maturity of the characters, giving them an almost cartoonish-like feel.
Another point that I disliked was how Milo & Jasper sometimes are so similar they mirror each other. Their style of speech & their delivery of jokes/lines were often indistinguishable from each other. If I were to switch their lines, I feel like it wouldn't make that much of a difference. I felt like I was being told Milo was like this & Jasper was like that but when it came to actually showing that, both characters weren't very distinctive & had very similar voices.
Overall, I think if this book falls in the hands of the correct reader it could be a delightful read. I still would recommend this book to readers who are also gamers/cosplayers & are into the former-bully-turned-lover trope.
〖 Follow me on Instagram (@shashaybooks)! 〗
Thank you Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing the free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
"You're my favourite prince."
This book had such a cute premise but I was sadly disappointed.
I'll first mention the things that I loved. I LOVED the incorporation of the hospital visits. It was an extremely heart-warming element & showed a lot about what Jasper is like as a person, I wished it got more page-time. It was probably my favourite part of the book. Jasper's personality really stood out during his interactions with his fellow gamers, his confidence when he games made him feel a lot more animated than normal, so I really appreciated the cosplay/gamer aspect of this book.
Milo also goes through an inspiring arc throughout this book & I did feel for him. Seeing him come out of the closet wasn't an easy process but I felt proud of his growth throughout the book, going from a self-deprecating closeted gay boy to being more confident & outspoken. In that way, the relationship was great as Jasper truly rubbed off on Milo in all the best ways. There was also a very present plot-line which is something I absolutely appreciate in romance novels like this.
I can see gamers & cosplayers loving this book very much!
The biggest problem for me was the lack of chemistry between the two love interests. I did not feel the emotional connection & their attraction was weighed down by a lot of past baggage that were never really resolved but simply pushed away because they loved each other. Their lack of chemistry made their relationship feel a little forced & empty. Consequently, I wasn't very invested in the romance aspect at all & caused the book to feel extremely dragged out.
Perhaps 100 pages could be taken out & the story would remain the same.
The reason I couldn't get into the story was also partly due to the writing. The writing felt very much like teen fiction which should not be the case as the characters are 22 years old. The explicit scenes also felt out of place & I was caught off-guard. I did not expect that since the writing was very teenage-like, & I was expecting YA. So this really took away from the depth & maturity of the characters, giving them an almost cartoonish-like feel.
Another point that I disliked was how Milo & Jasper sometimes are so similar they mirror each other. Their style of speech & their delivery of jokes/lines were often indistinguishable from each other. If I were to switch their lines, I feel like it wouldn't make that much of a difference. I felt like I was being told Milo was like this & Jasper was like that but when it came to actually showing that, both characters weren't very distinctive & had very similar voices.
Overall, I think if this book falls in the hands of the correct reader it could be a delightful read. I still would recommend this book to readers who are also gamers/cosplayers & are into the former-bully-turned-lover trope.
〖 Follow me on Instagram (@shashaybooks)! 〗
Thank you Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing the free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2021
it makes me so sad that i didn't like this book at all because i was so excited about it's release when i learned that it was best friends to enemies to lovers. ELITE TROPE. my FAVORITE trope. plus the cover was adorable!!! honestly this was one of the books i was most excited for this year!!! even though i gave the first book only three stars (i still didn't love it but i liked it) it was to me...leagues better than this. i really enjoyed the romance and the characters in book 1. it was the pacing, the length and the drawn out story that made me not love it. i loved seeing conrad and alden from book 1 but it was very brief.
i have not minded the game talk at all in either book but i suspect it is a combo of the pacing, the book's length and the characterization in this one that all result in a story that i wish would just end already. the two leads had no chemistry and the dialogue was...corny. jasper was the resident angel. absolutely perfect. not a flaw to be found. essentially a mary calmes character...if you know you know. 🤭🤣 and he was boring. so boring. milo was much more interesting but they both lacked personality and depth to me. i found myself not even caring about a single thing in the book. not the romance. not the characters. nada. i never connected to them or the book and i was trying so hard to get into it!!! i blamed myself, my mood, the weather....🤣 perhaps if these books had been condensed and edited down i could have enjoyed them more but who knows honestly? maybe i would have been exhausted even if they were 200 pages but man oh man...400 pages. too much. i will never ever give up on my queen annabeth albert though. this series and i just seem to not get along very well. i suspect this will have a third installment and i just know that the covers will keep reeling me in like a dog with a stick. no matter what...i'm chasing it even though i know what i'm in for!!!!!!!
i have not minded the game talk at all in either book but i suspect it is a combo of the pacing, the book's length and the characterization in this one that all result in a story that i wish would just end already. the two leads had no chemistry and the dialogue was...corny. jasper was the resident angel. absolutely perfect. not a flaw to be found. essentially a mary calmes character...if you know you know. 🤭🤣 and he was boring. so boring. milo was much more interesting but they both lacked personality and depth to me. i found myself not even caring about a single thing in the book. not the romance. not the characters. nada. i never connected to them or the book and i was trying so hard to get into it!!! i blamed myself, my mood, the weather....🤣 perhaps if these books had been condensed and edited down i could have enjoyed them more but who knows honestly? maybe i would have been exhausted even if they were 200 pages but man oh man...400 pages. too much. i will never ever give up on my queen annabeth albert though. this series and i just seem to not get along very well. i suspect this will have a third installment and i just know that the covers will keep reeling me in like a dog with a stick. no matter what...i'm chasing it even though i know what i'm in for!!!!!!!
February 13, 2022
Hi y'all! SO. I had high hopes for Out Of Character since I LOVED Conventionally Yours, the first book of this cute duology. And WOW. It did reach my high expectations! I LOVED this book from beginning to end. 4 stars is the only right rating for Out Of Character. Not as perfect as the first one for me but a really great book nonetheless.
The story revolves around Jasper, who loves cosplaying (CUUUUTE!) and plays the Odyssey card game. Than there is Milo, Italian jock (seemingly) who needs Jasper's help to correct another mistake of his. He lost super rare Odyssey cards of his brother during a drunken game. There is a catch, he needs Jasper to forgive him first since he bullied him during high school. They used to be the closest of friends but ever since Jasper came out, that friendship came to a stop. However, Milo has a secret... He has always been gay as well and is oh so afraid of coming out. (I KNOW this sounds cliché but this story is so GOOD OMG). Jasper, the good guy he is, agrees to go on a treasure hunt together with Milo to collect the card set. The deeper they delve into their hunt, the more closer they get. Friendship is quickly rekindled and maybe something more is blooming between them as well.
First off I wanna say that both Jasper and Milo are such likeable characters! Jasper is such a good guy and literally wants to do good for anyone!? How cute is that?! And Milo seems to be a jock type but deep down he is so sensitive, compassionate and sweet. I love that both men got what they wanted in the end. (Not spoiling too much!) Annabeth Albert did a GREAT JOB at breaking stereotypes in a sublime way that everytime something comes up, it feels like a genuine and fun surprise rather than an author that wants to break stereotypes too obvious to convey a lesson.
Out Of Character is the BEST combination of romance and plot. You have the growing relationship between Jasper and Milo and there is also their quest for the card set. Not only that, their self discovery journey is EVRYTHING and so SATISFYING. This book is so refreshing because NO DRAMA and only FLUFF but also a lot of actual life lessons about self discovery and what it means. Out of Character is a great (comfort) book with some fun fandom elements.
I definitely 10/10 would recommend reading Out Of Character to anyone who loves contemporary new adult romance. It has sweet, sexy and funny moments. The perfect feel-good book! And you will like its two main characters! This book deserves MORE ATTENTION and LOVE.
The story revolves around Jasper, who loves cosplaying (CUUUUTE!) and plays the Odyssey card game. Than there is Milo, Italian jock (seemingly) who needs Jasper's help to correct another mistake of his. He lost super rare Odyssey cards of his brother during a drunken game. There is a catch, he needs Jasper to forgive him first since he bullied him during high school. They used to be the closest of friends but ever since Jasper came out, that friendship came to a stop. However, Milo has a secret... He has always been gay as well and is oh so afraid of coming out. (I KNOW this sounds cliché but this story is so GOOD OMG). Jasper, the good guy he is, agrees to go on a treasure hunt together with Milo to collect the card set. The deeper they delve into their hunt, the more closer they get. Friendship is quickly rekindled and maybe something more is blooming between them as well.
First off I wanna say that both Jasper and Milo are such likeable characters! Jasper is such a good guy and literally wants to do good for anyone!? How cute is that?! And Milo seems to be a jock type but deep down he is so sensitive, compassionate and sweet. I love that both men got what they wanted in the end. (Not spoiling too much!) Annabeth Albert did a GREAT JOB at breaking stereotypes in a sublime way that everytime something comes up, it feels like a genuine and fun surprise rather than an author that wants to break stereotypes too obvious to convey a lesson.
Out Of Character is the BEST combination of romance and plot. You have the growing relationship between Jasper and Milo and there is also their quest for the card set. Not only that, their self discovery journey is EVRYTHING and so SATISFYING. This book is so refreshing because NO DRAMA and only FLUFF but also a lot of actual life lessons about self discovery and what it means. Out of Character is a great (comfort) book with some fun fandom elements.
I definitely 10/10 would recommend reading Out Of Character to anyone who loves contemporary new adult romance. It has sweet, sexy and funny moments. The perfect feel-good book! And you will like its two main characters! This book deserves MORE ATTENTION and LOVE.
July 12, 2021
~4.5~
Young love is glorious, especially when it involves friends-to-enemies-to-lovers and opposites (jock/nerd) attract tropes.
Milo was once Jasper's best friend, until he ditched Jasper for soccer and popularity. A few years post high school graduation, Milo appears at Jasper's work begging for help. Milo did something reckless ... again. He gambled with his brother's rare gaming cards and lost.
Milo is lost too. Closeted, insecure, Milo doesn't know who he is and what he wants, but he knows he wants Jasper who's grown into a confident, kind young man.
This is such a cute story with complex characters who evolve as the story progresses. Milo learns to stand up for himself, and Jasper learns to forgive. I loved the way Jasper encouraged Milo's artistic talents and how hard Milo worked to earn Jasper's trust.
The steam is on the low end, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything. The feels are all there, as is the tenderness.
I didn't read book 1 but had no issues reading this one as a standalone.
I'm also not a gamer but really appreciate the skills and talent of those who are and was never bored with the gaming talk or cosplay.
Indeed, the guys as King Neptune and the Frog Prince are adorable!
The ending is a fairly firm HEA. I see a bright future for these MCs.
Oh, and I really liked the two professors! As Jasper said, Relationship Goals.
Young love is glorious, especially when it involves friends-to-enemies-to-lovers and opposites (jock/nerd) attract tropes.
Milo was once Jasper's best friend, until he ditched Jasper for soccer and popularity. A few years post high school graduation, Milo appears at Jasper's work begging for help. Milo did something reckless ... again. He gambled with his brother's rare gaming cards and lost.
Milo is lost too. Closeted, insecure, Milo doesn't know who he is and what he wants, but he knows he wants Jasper who's grown into a confident, kind young man.
This is such a cute story with complex characters who evolve as the story progresses. Milo learns to stand up for himself, and Jasper learns to forgive. I loved the way Jasper encouraged Milo's artistic talents and how hard Milo worked to earn Jasper's trust.
The steam is on the low end, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything. The feels are all there, as is the tenderness.
"I'm the one who should be worried. You've done this before."
"Not with you."
I didn't read book 1 but had no issues reading this one as a standalone.
I'm also not a gamer but really appreciate the skills and talent of those who are and was never bored with the gaming talk or cosplay.
Indeed, the guys as King Neptune and the Frog Prince are adorable!
The ending is a fairly firm HEA. I see a bright future for these MCs.
Oh, and I really liked the two professors! As Jasper said, Relationship Goals.
June 10, 2021
I had some mixed feelings about the first book in this series, but I still wanted to try the second one because I liked the concept of romance books about board game nerds.
Unfortunately, I ended up enjoying this even less than the first book. I don't have any big, serious reasons for that - I just really didn't click with the characters and didn't end up liking them as people, and it's kind of hard to enjoy a romance if you don't feel any sort of connection with the people involved.
Now honestly, I'm really not someone for bully×nerd romances. I know here the "bully", Milo, was never *actually* a bully, but mainly someone who never stood up to his bully friends. But the fact remains that Milo's friends bullied Jasper and he never did anything about it. Considering that fact, I didn't feel like Milo took enough responsibility to hold himself accountable, and he even kind of victimized himself because of being "friends" and even living with such awful people. Jasper had to really coach him into taking responsibility for his own life, and I feel like it was kind of rich to make someone who suffered because of your own passiveness help you fix that for you. I know there's the redeeming factor that Milo was gay and didn't feel like it would be safe to come out, but still I just didn't like how this was handled.
Unfortunately, I ended up enjoying this even less than the first book. I don't have any big, serious reasons for that - I just really didn't click with the characters and didn't end up liking them as people, and it's kind of hard to enjoy a romance if you don't feel any sort of connection with the people involved.
Now honestly, I'm really not someone for bully×nerd romances. I know here the "bully", Milo, was never *actually* a bully, but mainly someone who never stood up to his bully friends. But the fact remains that Milo's friends bullied Jasper and he never did anything about it. Considering that fact, I didn't feel like Milo took enough responsibility to hold himself accountable, and he even kind of victimized himself because of being "friends" and even living with such awful people. Jasper had to really coach him into taking responsibility for his own life, and I feel like it was kind of rich to make someone who suffered because of your own passiveness help you fix that for you. I know there's the redeeming factor that Milo was gay and didn't feel like it would be safe to come out, but still I just didn't like how this was handled.
August 21, 2021
I love this book (and this series) so much! Hope we get a third book :D
Friends to Enemies to Friends to Lovers but make it nerdy.
Jasper and Milo used to be best friends, but when Milo joined the jocks in high-school it ended their friendship. Now, the two are brought together by a quest to obtain some super rare Odyssey cards.
Milo is determined to make up for ruining their childhood friendship and become a better person; Jasper is determined to not get charmed by Milo and not let his crush be re-ignited. As the two reconnect the chemistry is there to make a great more-than-friend-ship, if only they let it. (Stream Ruin The Friendship by Demi Lovato)
I love everything about Out of Character from the cover down to Milo's toga. Jasper and Milo's relationship had so much nuance to it. And the gamer stuff was so fun to read about, made me jealous of their gaming group!
Friends to Enemies to Friends to Lovers but make it nerdy.
Jasper and Milo used to be best friends, but when Milo joined the jocks in high-school it ended their friendship. Now, the two are brought together by a quest to obtain some super rare Odyssey cards.
Milo is determined to make up for ruining their childhood friendship and become a better person; Jasper is determined to not get charmed by Milo and not let his crush be re-ignited. As the two reconnect the chemistry is there to make a great more-than-friend-ship, if only they let it. (Stream Ruin The Friendship by Demi Lovato)
I love everything about Out of Character from the cover down to Milo's toga. Jasper and Milo's relationship had so much nuance to it. And the gamer stuff was so fun to read about, made me jealous of their gaming group!
July 18, 2021
Conventionally Yours was nice, but that was it for me. I just didn’t feel the chemistry between Alden & Conrad. But when Jasper & Milo kissed for the first time, my heart skipped a beat.
So, it’s clear I liked this way more than Conventionally Yours. I flew through the pages and loved Jasper and Milo. They were cute and adorable together. Jasper had a trust issue which was understandable, given Milo’s behavior in high-school. But I liked Milo’s growth throughout the story. Next to the chemistry, I found the scenes about the gaming also much better readable and understandable. A enjoyable, sweet and easy read!
So, it’s clear I liked this way more than Conventionally Yours. I flew through the pages and loved Jasper and Milo. They were cute and adorable together. Jasper had a trust issue which was understandable, given Milo’s behavior in high-school. But I liked Milo’s growth throughout the story. Next to the chemistry, I found the scenes about the gaming also much better readable and understandable. A enjoyable, sweet and easy read!
December 4, 2021
4.5★
This is a continuation of the gaming theme with new characters with appearances by the characters from the first book, Conventionally Yours. At probably his lowest point, Milo is in trouble...so in spite of his misgivings about what he is about to do...he reaches out to Jasper...the boy he used to know and considered his best friend. I actually enjoyed this one a bit more than the first book although it felt similar perhaps because the gaming scene was continued. I have read almost everything that Annabeth Albert has written and really enjoyed them all...always feeling that the characters were friends come to visit. The characters in this series are a bit different than the characters in most M/M romances. They are younger and mostly less experienced. The covers on the books are misleading on first glance. They portray the main characters looking more like young boys rather than young men in their early to mid-twenties. That could be a turn off to some readers before they even pick the book up. The stories thus far, have been a very easy venture into a view into the gay world and features couples of all ages. Those that are uneasy with the more "in-your-face" ventures will probably be very comfortable meeting and getting to know Jasper and Milo.
This is a continuation of the gaming theme with new characters with appearances by the characters from the first book, Conventionally Yours. At probably his lowest point, Milo is in trouble...so in spite of his misgivings about what he is about to do...he reaches out to Jasper...the boy he used to know and considered his best friend. I actually enjoyed this one a bit more than the first book although it felt similar perhaps because the gaming scene was continued. I have read almost everything that Annabeth Albert has written and really enjoyed them all...always feeling that the characters were friends come to visit. The characters in this series are a bit different than the characters in most M/M romances. They are younger and mostly less experienced. The covers on the books are misleading on first glance. They portray the main characters looking more like young boys rather than young men in their early to mid-twenties. That could be a turn off to some readers before they even pick the book up. The stories thus far, have been a very easy venture into a view into the gay world and features couples of all ages. Those that are uneasy with the more "in-your-face" ventures will probably be very comfortable meeting and getting to know Jasper and Milo.
July 22, 2021
4 “ you’re my hero.”⭐
Normally, the blurbs for most of the books are so confusing or misleading but in the case of this book, you pretty much get what you were promised in the blurb. It assures you, friends, to enemies to friends to lover and this is an actual total sum of the story.
Jasper and Milo had been friends from childhood up to middle school. But, things changed after Jasper came out to Milo and Milo decided to hang out with the jock crowd who were bullies to Jasper and his friends. After an accident in college, that cut short Milo's football career and his college life. Now, he is trying to get over his past and guilt and to live with his regrets. But then, he made another mistake of losing his brother's extra rare novelty cards, in a bet. To collect them back, he begs Jasper to help him. Jasper is no longer a gangly, uncertain kid but a geek and a serious gamer who wants to be the hero of his own story.💕💕
Jasper is not ready to cut any slack and forgive Milo(rightly so😏😏) but promises to help him if Milo is ready to cosplay as Prince Neptune for some charity work for kids. This pact leads to an adventure full of gaming terminologies, convention centres and full-on nerd culture. And, even though I had no idea about most of these things, I enjoyed it thoroughly. 🤭🤭
Mostly so because we have an always optimistic, super-smart, geeky Jasper as MC. I totally adored him and sometimes felt he was too sweet for Milo. I know Milo regretted their high school years when he distanced himself from Jasper and was part of the bully crowd. And, okay we can't help but believe in Jasper's belief in seeing goodness in people. Plus, we get to see loads of grovelling and awesomeness from Milo's side to justify the forgiveness.
The relationship development was super sweet with lots of communication. And, even though it has very low steam.😔😔 I am giving 3 ⭐ to the story and 1 ⭐to Jasper(I am surely in love with this geeky, super-boyfriend).
And, as always the audiobook narration by Kirt Graves and Joel Froomkin was awesome.
Normally, the blurbs for most of the books are so confusing or misleading but in the case of this book, you pretty much get what you were promised in the blurb. It assures you, friends, to enemies to friends to lover and this is an actual total sum of the story.
Jasper and Milo had been friends from childhood up to middle school. But, things changed after Jasper came out to Milo and Milo decided to hang out with the jock crowd who were bullies to Jasper and his friends. After an accident in college, that cut short Milo's football career and his college life. Now, he is trying to get over his past and guilt and to live with his regrets. But then, he made another mistake of losing his brother's extra rare novelty cards, in a bet. To collect them back, he begs Jasper to help him. Jasper is no longer a gangly, uncertain kid but a geek and a serious gamer who wants to be the hero of his own story.💕💕
Jasper is not ready to cut any slack and forgive Milo(rightly so😏😏) but promises to help him if Milo is ready to cosplay as Prince Neptune for some charity work for kids. This pact leads to an adventure full of gaming terminologies, convention centres and full-on nerd culture. And, even though I had no idea about most of these things, I enjoyed it thoroughly. 🤭🤭
Mostly so because we have an always optimistic, super-smart, geeky Jasper as MC. I totally adored him and sometimes felt he was too sweet for Milo. I know Milo regretted their high school years when he distanced himself from Jasper and was part of the bully crowd. And, okay we can't help but believe in Jasper's belief in seeing goodness in people. Plus, we get to see loads of grovelling and awesomeness from Milo's side to justify the forgiveness.
The relationship development was super sweet with lots of communication. And, even though it has very low steam.😔😔 I am giving 3 ⭐ to the story and 1 ⭐to Jasper(I am surely in love with this geeky, super-boyfriend).
And, as always the audiobook narration by Kirt Graves and Joel Froomkin was awesome.
June 27, 2021
Out of Character is a cute, nerdy, M/M romance where two former best friends fall in love. Similarly to other reviewers I liked this but didn't love it, thought I'm not entirely certain why that is.
I enjoyed the nerdy card game elements, and I loved how much heart the story has. The characters have to grow individually and together to deal with things from the past. It's cute and the characters are good, I just wasn't deeply invested. I think part of that might be that we didn't get as much of an emotional journey from Jasper. He's a nice guy and seems into Milo, but I didn't necessarily buy that this would be a forever relationship if that makes sense.
One thing worth noting is the characters are young, like late college age, and the writing felt like a YA romance slightly aged up. And that isn't necessarily a bad thing, it just wasn't what I was expecting and for me, it read a little younger than I might have preferred. That said, I like the exploration of how coming out can be difficult depending on your family, and I loved the emphasis on good communication in the relationship. This is a pretty low-angst story which I think will appeal to people. So yeah, liked but didn't love is a good way to put it.
The audiobook is good. The actor playing Milo has kind of an Italian accent which is fun. I received an audio copy for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed the nerdy card game elements, and I loved how much heart the story has. The characters have to grow individually and together to deal with things from the past. It's cute and the characters are good, I just wasn't deeply invested. I think part of that might be that we didn't get as much of an emotional journey from Jasper. He's a nice guy and seems into Milo, but I didn't necessarily buy that this would be a forever relationship if that makes sense.
One thing worth noting is the characters are young, like late college age, and the writing felt like a YA romance slightly aged up. And that isn't necessarily a bad thing, it just wasn't what I was expecting and for me, it read a little younger than I might have preferred. That said, I like the exploration of how coming out can be difficult depending on your family, and I loved the emphasis on good communication in the relationship. This is a pretty low-angst story which I think will appeal to people. So yeah, liked but didn't love is a good way to put it.
The audiobook is good. The actor playing Milo has kind of an Italian accent which is fun. I received an audio copy for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
August 23, 2021
This was very cute.
July 14, 2021
i have conflicting feelings about this book, i think. it wasn’t a bad read, per se…. more of a frustrating one? i felt like a lot of the choices that the characters would make in this story were, to be frank, pretty stupid. it felt more plot-driven than character-driven to me, in that characters would behave and/or react in ways to get to the next plot point rather than i felt would be more authentic to their situation. and i know all this is just my personal opinion, but it hindered my enjoyment of the book at times.
i had a hard time liking the two MCs, in general, to, i think. Jasper was written as too good, too nice, too perfect, and that grated on me a bit. i like flawed characters who fuck up and make mistakes and have to grow. Jasper did have his little arc toward the end where he realize she was overstepping bounds with Milo at times, but it felt tacked on and kind of lame to me? Milo was the more interesting of the two leads for me, because he was kind of a fuck-up, but even he was written pretty blandly.
i liked the first book in this series quite. a bit more; the conflict and the dynamics between the two less in that book worked a lot better for me.
overall, this was fine - not horrible, but also not really great, either.
i had a hard time liking the two MCs, in general, to, i think. Jasper was written as too good, too nice, too perfect, and that grated on me a bit. i like flawed characters who fuck up and make mistakes and have to grow. Jasper did have his little arc toward the end where he realize she was overstepping bounds with Milo at times, but it felt tacked on and kind of lame to me? Milo was the more interesting of the two leads for me, because he was kind of a fuck-up, but even he was written pretty blandly.
i liked the first book in this series quite. a bit more; the conflict and the dynamics between the two less in that book worked a lot better for me.
overall, this was fine - not horrible, but also not really great, either.
August 3, 2021
I've given this a B at AAR
Annabeth Albert’s Out of Character, the follow up to last year’s Conventionally Yours, features two guys who were firm friends until high-school, when expectations and peer pressure ended their friendship. It’s a cute, (former) friends-to-lovers romance featuring two likeable characters who have a lot to learn – and re-learn – about each other as they reconnect through a quest to track down some rare Odyssey game cards.
We met Jasper Quigley in the previous book, in which he was due to accompany his friends and fellow gamers Alden and Conrad to Odyssey Con West, a massive fan convention in Las Vegas. Unfortunately, Jasper had to pull out at the last minute because his younger sister April – who suffers from a rare immune system disorder – became seriously ill and he had to return home. Several months later finds Jasper, who is in his final year of college, still working at a local game shop, making regular appearances on the Gamer Grandpa vlog, and also spending time volunteering in the children’s ward at the local hospital, where he and a group of friends cosplay various Odyssey characters and play games with some of the kids there. When the book opens though, he’s down a prince for the next visit – Prince Neptune to be specific – one of the most popular (if not the most popular) characters in the game and with the kids, and he’s running out of time to come up with a suitable replacement.
Fortunately, however, Jasper’s prince does, indeed, come. Unfortunately, it’s in the form of someone he’d hoped never to have to have much to do with again, his former best friend, Milo Lionetti. Milo’s Italianate good looks make him a perfect prince – on paper at least, because his long ago behaviour towards Jasper wasn’t at all princely.
Jasper and Milo grew up together and were practically inseparable, but that changed when they went to high school and Milo got picked for the soccer team. Wanting a place at the cool kids’ table – and not wanting to be singled out for his choice of a nerdy gay boy as his best friend – Milo turned his back on Jasper and watched from the sidelines, saying nothing as the Jock crowd dished out insults to Jasper and anyone else who dared to be smart, nerdy or anything other than a vapid clone. Jasper made new friends and moved on, although he hasn’t forgotten what Milo did, or forgiven him for it. So Milo is the last person Jasper expects to be coming to him for help.
A few nights earlier, Milo had a bit too much to drink and ended up losing four of his older brother Bruno’s Odyssey cards, four cards which happen to be incredibly rare and worth thousands of dollars. Bruno is in the military and is currently stationed overseas; Milo can’t bear to have to own up to yet another screw up – he’s already caused his mother and brother enough worry over the last few years – and wants to replace the cards before Bruno’s next leave, which is a matter of weeks away. Jasper doesn’t have a great deal of sympathy for him and at first, he wonders if he’s being pranked, but he soon realises that Milo is serious, and that his distress is real. So he offers Milo a deal. In return for Jasper’s help in tracking down the cards, Milo has to be Prince Neptune on their next cosplay session at the hospital. With absolutely no other option open to him, Milo agrees.
That’s the set up for what opens out into a charming and heart-warming story of two young men whose lives went in different directions finding their way back to each other. After the cosplay session, Jasper starts looking for the cards Milo needs, and the two of them end up searching various sites and online markets, solving puzzles, doing a treasure hunt and going to an Odyssey tournament together. To his surprise, Milo starts to enjoy the cosplaying and the visits to the hospital as well, and all the time he and Jasper spend together give them the opportunity to talk about what happened to their friendship and to get to know each other as the people they are now.
Jasper is an absolute sweetheart; intelligent, up-beat and generous of spirit, he loves helping people and is always on hand to crack a joke or offer support. But he chafes a bit at being the ‘sidekick’ – the dependable one who isn’t ‘the best’ at anything, and longs to be someone’s hero. Milo has had a tough few years; he went off the rails a bit after his father died and now sees himself as a screw-up who can do nothing right and is going nowhere. But although Jasper is initially suspicious of Milo’s motives, he quickly realises that Milo wants to change and do better, and I loved how his support and belief in Milo spur him on and help him to see that he’s capable of more than he’d believed. Milo grows an awful lot throughout the novel, and his redemption as a character and as a friend is very well done. I liked the neat bit of role-reversal here, too, with Jasper being the confident, outgoing one and Milo the quiet, artistic one who has, despite being a member of the ‘in-crowd’ been more alone than Jasper ever has.
The chemistry that hums between them is palpable, and their romance is sweet and full of genuine affection as Jasper helps Milo navigate his way through the newness of a relationship (with a lovely, subtle emphasis on consent) and there’s a real sense of give and take as they talk and listen and work through their issues together – and Jasper becomes Milo’s hero and Milo embraces his true self and learns to forgive himself.
As I said in my review of the previous book, I know nothing about gaming and it’s not something that has ever really interested me, but Annabeth Albert writes about it here with such affection and authority that she made me care about it because the characters care about it so much.
Milo and Jasper are well-rounded characters, and Milo, in particular, undergoes a tremendous amount of well-written and organic personal growth throughout the story. Out of Character is a low-angst, feel-good romance about second chances, being brave and being true to yourself and others, and I’m happy to recommend it.
Annabeth Albert’s Out of Character, the follow up to last year’s Conventionally Yours, features two guys who were firm friends until high-school, when expectations and peer pressure ended their friendship. It’s a cute, (former) friends-to-lovers romance featuring two likeable characters who have a lot to learn – and re-learn – about each other as they reconnect through a quest to track down some rare Odyssey game cards.
We met Jasper Quigley in the previous book, in which he was due to accompany his friends and fellow gamers Alden and Conrad to Odyssey Con West, a massive fan convention in Las Vegas. Unfortunately, Jasper had to pull out at the last minute because his younger sister April – who suffers from a rare immune system disorder – became seriously ill and he had to return home. Several months later finds Jasper, who is in his final year of college, still working at a local game shop, making regular appearances on the Gamer Grandpa vlog, and also spending time volunteering in the children’s ward at the local hospital, where he and a group of friends cosplay various Odyssey characters and play games with some of the kids there. When the book opens though, he’s down a prince for the next visit – Prince Neptune to be specific – one of the most popular (if not the most popular) characters in the game and with the kids, and he’s running out of time to come up with a suitable replacement.
Fortunately, however, Jasper’s prince does, indeed, come. Unfortunately, it’s in the form of someone he’d hoped never to have to have much to do with again, his former best friend, Milo Lionetti. Milo’s Italianate good looks make him a perfect prince – on paper at least, because his long ago behaviour towards Jasper wasn’t at all princely.
Jasper and Milo grew up together and were practically inseparable, but that changed when they went to high school and Milo got picked for the soccer team. Wanting a place at the cool kids’ table – and not wanting to be singled out for his choice of a nerdy gay boy as his best friend – Milo turned his back on Jasper and watched from the sidelines, saying nothing as the Jock crowd dished out insults to Jasper and anyone else who dared to be smart, nerdy or anything other than a vapid clone. Jasper made new friends and moved on, although he hasn’t forgotten what Milo did, or forgiven him for it. So Milo is the last person Jasper expects to be coming to him for help.
A few nights earlier, Milo had a bit too much to drink and ended up losing four of his older brother Bruno’s Odyssey cards, four cards which happen to be incredibly rare and worth thousands of dollars. Bruno is in the military and is currently stationed overseas; Milo can’t bear to have to own up to yet another screw up – he’s already caused his mother and brother enough worry over the last few years – and wants to replace the cards before Bruno’s next leave, which is a matter of weeks away. Jasper doesn’t have a great deal of sympathy for him and at first, he wonders if he’s being pranked, but he soon realises that Milo is serious, and that his distress is real. So he offers Milo a deal. In return for Jasper’s help in tracking down the cards, Milo has to be Prince Neptune on their next cosplay session at the hospital. With absolutely no other option open to him, Milo agrees.
That’s the set up for what opens out into a charming and heart-warming story of two young men whose lives went in different directions finding their way back to each other. After the cosplay session, Jasper starts looking for the cards Milo needs, and the two of them end up searching various sites and online markets, solving puzzles, doing a treasure hunt and going to an Odyssey tournament together. To his surprise, Milo starts to enjoy the cosplaying and the visits to the hospital as well, and all the time he and Jasper spend together give them the opportunity to talk about what happened to their friendship and to get to know each other as the people they are now.
Jasper is an absolute sweetheart; intelligent, up-beat and generous of spirit, he loves helping people and is always on hand to crack a joke or offer support. But he chafes a bit at being the ‘sidekick’ – the dependable one who isn’t ‘the best’ at anything, and longs to be someone’s hero. Milo has had a tough few years; he went off the rails a bit after his father died and now sees himself as a screw-up who can do nothing right and is going nowhere. But although Jasper is initially suspicious of Milo’s motives, he quickly realises that Milo wants to change and do better, and I loved how his support and belief in Milo spur him on and help him to see that he’s capable of more than he’d believed. Milo grows an awful lot throughout the novel, and his redemption as a character and as a friend is very well done. I liked the neat bit of role-reversal here, too, with Jasper being the confident, outgoing one and Milo the quiet, artistic one who has, despite being a member of the ‘in-crowd’ been more alone than Jasper ever has.
The chemistry that hums between them is palpable, and their romance is sweet and full of genuine affection as Jasper helps Milo navigate his way through the newness of a relationship (with a lovely, subtle emphasis on consent) and there’s a real sense of give and take as they talk and listen and work through their issues together – and Jasper becomes Milo’s hero and Milo embraces his true self and learns to forgive himself.
As I said in my review of the previous book, I know nothing about gaming and it’s not something that has ever really interested me, but Annabeth Albert writes about it here with such affection and authority that she made me care about it because the characters care about it so much.
Milo and Jasper are well-rounded characters, and Milo, in particular, undergoes a tremendous amount of well-written and organic personal growth throughout the story. Out of Character is a low-angst, feel-good romance about second chances, being brave and being true to yourself and others, and I’m happy to recommend it.
July 7, 2021
I enjoyed this second installment in the True Colors series about the same as I enjoyed the first book in the series, Conventionally Yours. It's a great New Adult romance, with a major focus on Milo coming to terms with his past and his present and getting his shit together.
There is just something about Annabeth Albert's writing that doesn't quite click for me. Maybe I'm just too old and as an elder millennial I can't connect with these young folk, I don't know. Neither Milo nor Jasper felt really fully fleshed out and REAL to me, and I didn't 100% buy into their chemistry. It was sort of like "Oh, now they're friends, oh, now they're in a relationship. I know because these words here say so," but I didn't ever really feel it.
Still, lots of fun descriptions of gaming, cosplay, streaming, and general nerdiness abound. Annabeth Albert also takes on some larger issues like learning disabilities and being afraid to come out when you're a jock.
I listened to this on audiobook, narrated by Kirt Graves and Joel Froomkin. At first, both narrators were really grating to me, especially the narrator for Jasper's chapters. Eventually I got more used to both their voices. I did appreciate how well both narrators did at keeping the character's voices/tone consistent regardless of who was narrating - Milo especially had a very distinct voice/dialect and the narrator for Jasper did a great job capturing that in his chapters.
This is the second book in the True Colors series, and can be read as a stand alone. The characters from the first book appear in this one as fairly minor side characters.
A digital ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
There is just something about Annabeth Albert's writing that doesn't quite click for me. Maybe I'm just too old and as an elder millennial I can't connect with these young folk, I don't know. Neither Milo nor Jasper felt really fully fleshed out and REAL to me, and I didn't 100% buy into their chemistry. It was sort of like "Oh, now they're friends, oh, now they're in a relationship. I know because these words here say so," but I didn't ever really feel it.
Still, lots of fun descriptions of gaming, cosplay, streaming, and general nerdiness abound. Annabeth Albert also takes on some larger issues like learning disabilities and being afraid to come out when you're a jock.
I listened to this on audiobook, narrated by Kirt Graves and Joel Froomkin. At first, both narrators were really grating to me, especially the narrator for Jasper's chapters. Eventually I got more used to both their voices. I did appreciate how well both narrators did at keeping the character's voices/tone consistent regardless of who was narrating - Milo especially had a very distinct voice/dialect and the narrator for Jasper did a great job capturing that in his chapters.
This is the second book in the True Colors series, and can be read as a stand alone. The characters from the first book appear in this one as fairly minor side characters.
A digital ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
September 2, 2021
4 Stars!
This was a simply adorable read with depth and a surprising amount of steam in it. I really wasn't sure what to expect going in, as this was a new author for me. But I was quickly hooked by Jasper's geeky goodness and Milo's regret and vulnerability.
I received an audio ARC of this book from NetGalley, so my review will focus on the audio version of this book.
There were two different male narrators here. I loved Jasper's character's delivery. The narrator did an excellent job. I struggled a bit with the narrator who did Milo's character. He definitely has a great voice. I liked his delivery better when he read the chapter headings, though, which I guess is his natural voice? His New England accent was spot on. His delivery just seemed kind of lofty and forced at times. It wasn't terrible, but it didn't always sound as natural as I felt it could have.
But that was really my only struggle with the audio.
This is a friends-to-enemies-to-lovers story. Milo and Jasper were childhood best friends, until Jasper came out, and then they weren't. And Milo, at the time, as his younger closeted self, was not a supportive friend, to say the least. Now, years, later, Milo needs Jasper's help.
This story definitely had Him, by Sarina Bowen vibes, though not nearly as sexy. And speaking of sex, there actually was a considerable amount of steam here, though it was all pretty much closed door.
This is a heartwarming romance about two friends healing and overcoming the hurts of their past. It's also about loving and believing in yourself. I would recommend it to all M/M lovers and would definitely read/listen to this author again.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, who provided me with an advanced audio copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“Milo the guy I’ve been sending racy fan-art drawings to and kissing good night” didn’t especially roll off the tongue, even if it was maybe more accurate."
This was a simply adorable read with depth and a surprising amount of steam in it. I really wasn't sure what to expect going in, as this was a new author for me. But I was quickly hooked by Jasper's geeky goodness and Milo's regret and vulnerability.
I received an audio ARC of this book from NetGalley, so my review will focus on the audio version of this book.
There were two different male narrators here. I loved Jasper's character's delivery. The narrator did an excellent job. I struggled a bit with the narrator who did Milo's character. He definitely has a great voice. I liked his delivery better when he read the chapter headings, though, which I guess is his natural voice? His New England accent was spot on. His delivery just seemed kind of lofty and forced at times. It wasn't terrible, but it didn't always sound as natural as I felt it could have.
But that was really my only struggle with the audio.
This is a friends-to-enemies-to-lovers story. Milo and Jasper were childhood best friends, until Jasper came out, and then they weren't. And Milo, at the time, as his younger closeted self, was not a supportive friend, to say the least. Now, years, later, Milo needs Jasper's help.
This story definitely had Him, by Sarina Bowen vibes, though not nearly as sexy. And speaking of sex, there actually was a considerable amount of steam here, though it was all pretty much closed door.
"He turned me slightly in his embrace so he could peer into my eyes. “I think I’m falling in love with you.”
My next breath strangled in my throat, and I made a choking noise. “Okay. That’s…”
“Too much?” His cheeks took on a bright-pink stain and he sounded like he’d been running.
“No.” I stretched to give him a gentle kiss, trying to put my awe and appreciation into it because God knew I lacked the words. And courage. “Never too much.”
This is a heartwarming romance about two friends healing and overcoming the hurts of their past. It's also about loving and believing in yourself. I would recommend it to all M/M lovers and would definitely read/listen to this author again.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, who provided me with an advanced audio copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2021
I haven't read the first book of this series yet, so I can guarantee that it can be read as a standalone.
Out of characters was a perfectly entertaining, nerdy, geeky, adorable romcom I didn't know I needed but enjoyed so much! If you are looking for an easy read full of pop culture tropes and lovable characters you are in for a treat.
Out of characters was a perfectly entertaining, nerdy, geeky, adorable romcom I didn't know I needed but enjoyed so much! If you are looking for an easy read full of pop culture tropes and lovable characters you are in for a treat.
August 5, 2021
Swoon!
I love this series and now nerdy it is. Full review to come.
I love this series and now nerdy it is. Full review to come.
October 15, 2021
I think I'm done with romance for a while. They're just making me sad lmao.
August 19, 2021
The characters sounded younger and dumber than their years, supposedly new adults. The struggle for self-acceptance and redemption is yoked with a post-high school romance that seems written for middle-schoolers. A good message, but engaged I was not.
February 6, 2022
4 stars. Although reading a bit immature at times, Out of Character contained all of my favorite tropes and succeeded in making my heart squeeze.
September 15, 2021
This is one of the books that keeps you up all night. You just can't stop reading because you want to know how it all works out in the end. It is no secret that Jasper and Milo will end up together, but there’s a lot more going on. Like in the previous book where you just couldn’t tell who (if any) is going to win the tournament, in this book it is pretty unpredictable what the solution to the Frog Court card problem eventually will be.
This book is no sequel to the first book but more like a spin-off. It is a completely different story with very different characters. Jasper appears in only the first chapters of the previous book before he has to drop out. Conrad and Alden are eventually back for the big finale in this book. It’s amazing to see how Conrad and Alden are viewed by Jasper and Milo. This outside view is a little bit different from that in the other book. It really shows how good the author is in creating different and distinguishable characters. I really love it.
I couldn’t really relate to Jasper and Milo like I did with Conrad and most of all Alden. But that is entirely on me and you also don’t have to relate to every character to like them. I loved Jasper already from the first book. But it took me a very long time to find a liking in Milo. Although he is introverted, has anxiety and I couldn’t relate to him. Probably because of his life choices. I saw him rather as pitiable than as adorable. Which may be also the reason why I couldn’t really relate to Jasper, who has heart-eyes for Milo from the very beginning. It took me half the book to like Milo. And maybe that is intended because it also takes Milo a very long time to finally like himself. The second half of the book then really made me fall in love with him too. (That was also the point where I just couldn’t stop reading.)
This book has some tough topics, but it still is first and foremost a comfort read. It is never discomforting, even when it is about serious problems. Comforting and uplifting. I also like how the author avoids all the usual and overused plot devices. This makes this story so refreshing and exciting. And of course it is also a very cute love story. 💕
This book is no sequel to the first book but more like a spin-off. It is a completely different story with very different characters. Jasper appears in only the first chapters of the previous book before he has to drop out. Conrad and Alden are eventually back for the big finale in this book. It’s amazing to see how Conrad and Alden are viewed by Jasper and Milo. This outside view is a little bit different from that in the other book. It really shows how good the author is in creating different and distinguishable characters. I really love it.
I couldn’t really relate to Jasper and Milo like I did with Conrad and most of all Alden. But that is entirely on me and you also don’t have to relate to every character to like them. I loved Jasper already from the first book. But it took me a very long time to find a liking in Milo. Although he is introverted, has anxiety and I couldn’t relate to him. Probably because of his life choices. I saw him rather as pitiable than as adorable. Which may be also the reason why I couldn’t really relate to Jasper, who has heart-eyes for Milo from the very beginning. It took me half the book to like Milo. And maybe that is intended because it also takes Milo a very long time to finally like himself. The second half of the book then really made me fall in love with him too. (That was also the point where I just couldn’t stop reading.)
This book has some tough topics, but it still is first and foremost a comfort read. It is never discomforting, even when it is about serious problems. Comforting and uplifting. I also like how the author avoids all the usual and overused plot devices. This makes this story so refreshing and exciting. And of course it is also a very cute love story. 💕
November 24, 2023
I've given this an A- for narration and a B for content at AudioGals, so 4.5 stars
In this charming frenemies-to-lovers romance, Annabeth Albert revisits the group of gamer friends we met in last year’s Conventionally Yours . If you read or listened to that book, you may recall Jasper Quigley, who had originally planned to join Alden and Conrad on their road trip, but who had to return home due to a family emergency after the first day. Out of Character opens a few months after that and finds Jasper who, in his last year of college, is still working part-time at the local game store and participating in the Gamer Grandpa vlog, wondering how on earth he’s going to find a replacement Prince Neptune for his cosplay group. Jasper and a few other Odyssey players – including his younger sister April – regularly visit the children’s ward at the local hospital to chat and play a game or two with some of the older kids on the ward, and Prince Neptune is probably the most popular character. But with the group’s regular Neptune away on vacation, Jasper is a man down, and with only a couple of days to go before their next visit has so far not managed to find anyone to take his place.
Milo Lionetti was Jasper’s best friend from when they were little kids, but that changed when they went to high school and Milo was selected for the football team. Wanting to be one of the cool crowd meant not being seen with the nerds – and especially not one who openly went to Rainbow Alliance meetings – and not wanting to be the target of bullies himself, Milo stood by and did nothing when Jasper and his friends were subjected to the ribbing and insults of his new teammates. Milo and Jasper haven’t seen much – if anything – of each other for years, but now Milo desperately needs Jasper’s help, and although he knows he doesn’t deserve it, he screws up his courage to venture into the game store where Jasper works.
His former best friend is the last person Jasper expects to see in the store, and at first thinks his request for help in tracking down some extremely rare Odyssey cards must be some kind of prank. But as Milo explains what happened – that he’d been talked into playing a game with someone with a reputation as a bit of a shark and had lost the four extremely valuable cards belonging to his older brother Bruno (who is away on active duty) – Jasper realises he’s telling the truth… and spots an opportunity. Milo, with his football player’s physique and his Italianate good looks, will make the perfect Prince Neptune; Jasper says he’ll see what he can do to help Milo if Milo will play the prince at their next hospital visit. Wary but intensely relieved, Milo agrees.
Jasper and Milo are appealing, likeable characters, even taking into account Milo’s crappy behaviour towards Jasper in their high school days. He’s had a rough few years and went off the rails a bit after his father died, disappointing his mother and brother and needing Bruno’s help to pull him out of the scrapes he got into. Milo sees himself as a screw-up who can’t do anything right and is going nowhere, yet it’s very clear that he regrets what he did to Jasper and that he very much wants to do better. Jasper isn’t so easily won over, however. He’s a lovely guy – intelligent, outgoing and generous of spirit, he loves to see the people around him happy – but he can’t easily forget or forgive Milo. He’s an absolute sweetheart – but after years as the dependable side-kick (not quite the best Odyssey player, not quite the best-looking in his friendship group, not quite the funniest…) he longs to be someone’s hero.
But he does soon realise that Milo’s desire to repair their friendship is genuine, and he also can’t help noticing how nicely Milo has grown into himself – and how hot he looks in Prince Neptune’s costume! After the cosplay evening, Jasper sets out to fulfil his part of the bargain and starts looking for the cards Milo needs, and they end up doing online research, solving puzzles, doing a treasure hunt and even going to an Odyssey tournament together. All the time they spend together gives Milo and Jasper the chance to really talk – about what happened to their friendship and about where they go from here – and to get to know each other as the people they are now.
Out of Character is a charming and heartfelt romance that sees these two former best friends finding their way back together on a journey that, for Milo particularly, involves a lot of personal growth and discovery. His redemption arc – as both a friend and a person – is really well done, and I adored the way Jasper’s support and encouragement enable Milo to see himself in a new light and gain a new sense of self-belief. They have terrific chemistry and their romance is sweet and full of genuine affection as Jasper helps Milo navigate his way through their changing relationship, and most importantly, there’s a real sense of equality between them in the way they talk and listen to each other. It’s obvious just how good they are for one another as Jasper becomes Milo’s hero and Milo learns how to be his best and truest self.
I was pleased to see that Joel Froomkin and Kirt Graves had signed on to narrate Out of Character as I’d greatly enjoyed listening to them in Conventionally Yours. Just as you’d expect from two such experienced performers, they bring considerable expertise to the table, so pacing, characterisations and differentiation are excellent across the board. Mr. Froomkin reads the chapters from Jasper’s PoV and he captures the essence of the character perfectly; his sunny nature, his dry wit and that hint of vulnerability beneath the generally confident exterior are all right there in his voice. Mr Graves’ interpretation of Milo is equally good, the somewhat downbeat delivery he employs – especially at the start – working well to give the impression of someone who is generally fed up with himself and a bit beaten down by life. Both narrators do a great job with the supporting cast (Mr. Froomkin’s turn as Professor Tuttle is a hoot!) and they are absolutely wonderful when it comes to conveying the growing connection and intimacy between Jasper and Milo; there’s a lovely sense of ‘rightness’ when they’re together.
Out of Character is a low-angst, feel-good story about love, forgiveness, being brave and second chances. I enjoyed it in print, but the excellent performances from Joel Froomkin and Kirt Graves definitely take it to another level, and I’m more than happy to recommend the book in audio format.
This review originally appeared at AudioGals .
In this charming frenemies-to-lovers romance, Annabeth Albert revisits the group of gamer friends we met in last year’s Conventionally Yours . If you read or listened to that book, you may recall Jasper Quigley, who had originally planned to join Alden and Conrad on their road trip, but who had to return home due to a family emergency after the first day. Out of Character opens a few months after that and finds Jasper who, in his last year of college, is still working part-time at the local game store and participating in the Gamer Grandpa vlog, wondering how on earth he’s going to find a replacement Prince Neptune for his cosplay group. Jasper and a few other Odyssey players – including his younger sister April – regularly visit the children’s ward at the local hospital to chat and play a game or two with some of the older kids on the ward, and Prince Neptune is probably the most popular character. But with the group’s regular Neptune away on vacation, Jasper is a man down, and with only a couple of days to go before their next visit has so far not managed to find anyone to take his place.
Milo Lionetti was Jasper’s best friend from when they were little kids, but that changed when they went to high school and Milo was selected for the football team. Wanting to be one of the cool crowd meant not being seen with the nerds – and especially not one who openly went to Rainbow Alliance meetings – and not wanting to be the target of bullies himself, Milo stood by and did nothing when Jasper and his friends were subjected to the ribbing and insults of his new teammates. Milo and Jasper haven’t seen much – if anything – of each other for years, but now Milo desperately needs Jasper’s help, and although he knows he doesn’t deserve it, he screws up his courage to venture into the game store where Jasper works.
His former best friend is the last person Jasper expects to see in the store, and at first thinks his request for help in tracking down some extremely rare Odyssey cards must be some kind of prank. But as Milo explains what happened – that he’d been talked into playing a game with someone with a reputation as a bit of a shark and had lost the four extremely valuable cards belonging to his older brother Bruno (who is away on active duty) – Jasper realises he’s telling the truth… and spots an opportunity. Milo, with his football player’s physique and his Italianate good looks, will make the perfect Prince Neptune; Jasper says he’ll see what he can do to help Milo if Milo will play the prince at their next hospital visit. Wary but intensely relieved, Milo agrees.
Jasper and Milo are appealing, likeable characters, even taking into account Milo’s crappy behaviour towards Jasper in their high school days. He’s had a rough few years and went off the rails a bit after his father died, disappointing his mother and brother and needing Bruno’s help to pull him out of the scrapes he got into. Milo sees himself as a screw-up who can’t do anything right and is going nowhere, yet it’s very clear that he regrets what he did to Jasper and that he very much wants to do better. Jasper isn’t so easily won over, however. He’s a lovely guy – intelligent, outgoing and generous of spirit, he loves to see the people around him happy – but he can’t easily forget or forgive Milo. He’s an absolute sweetheart – but after years as the dependable side-kick (not quite the best Odyssey player, not quite the best-looking in his friendship group, not quite the funniest…) he longs to be someone’s hero.
But he does soon realise that Milo’s desire to repair their friendship is genuine, and he also can’t help noticing how nicely Milo has grown into himself – and how hot he looks in Prince Neptune’s costume! After the cosplay evening, Jasper sets out to fulfil his part of the bargain and starts looking for the cards Milo needs, and they end up doing online research, solving puzzles, doing a treasure hunt and even going to an Odyssey tournament together. All the time they spend together gives Milo and Jasper the chance to really talk – about what happened to their friendship and about where they go from here – and to get to know each other as the people they are now.
Out of Character is a charming and heartfelt romance that sees these two former best friends finding their way back together on a journey that, for Milo particularly, involves a lot of personal growth and discovery. His redemption arc – as both a friend and a person – is really well done, and I adored the way Jasper’s support and encouragement enable Milo to see himself in a new light and gain a new sense of self-belief. They have terrific chemistry and their romance is sweet and full of genuine affection as Jasper helps Milo navigate his way through their changing relationship, and most importantly, there’s a real sense of equality between them in the way they talk and listen to each other. It’s obvious just how good they are for one another as Jasper becomes Milo’s hero and Milo learns how to be his best and truest self.
I was pleased to see that Joel Froomkin and Kirt Graves had signed on to narrate Out of Character as I’d greatly enjoyed listening to them in Conventionally Yours. Just as you’d expect from two such experienced performers, they bring considerable expertise to the table, so pacing, characterisations and differentiation are excellent across the board. Mr. Froomkin reads the chapters from Jasper’s PoV and he captures the essence of the character perfectly; his sunny nature, his dry wit and that hint of vulnerability beneath the generally confident exterior are all right there in his voice. Mr Graves’ interpretation of Milo is equally good, the somewhat downbeat delivery he employs – especially at the start – working well to give the impression of someone who is generally fed up with himself and a bit beaten down by life. Both narrators do a great job with the supporting cast (Mr. Froomkin’s turn as Professor Tuttle is a hoot!) and they are absolutely wonderful when it comes to conveying the growing connection and intimacy between Jasper and Milo; there’s a lovely sense of ‘rightness’ when they’re together.
Out of Character is a low-angst, feel-good story about love, forgiveness, being brave and second chances. I enjoyed it in print, but the excellent performances from Joel Froomkin and Kirt Graves definitely take it to another level, and I’m more than happy to recommend the book in audio format.
This review originally appeared at AudioGals .
July 1, 2021
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Out of Character is the second installment in the True Colors series. In it, you will meet Jasper and Milo. They used to be the best of friends until the day they just weren't. Which is why I was really excited to see how their romance would blossom once feelings came out to play.
Now I'll admit that these two were pretty freaking cute throughout the entire book. Their lives weren't completely easy but they eventually found a way back to one another. I honestly like their relationship but I at times I wanted things to slow down a bit. For some odd reason, it just felt like things were moving way too quickly for me. Which, yeah, is weird to say since they used to be friends and everything... but that's how I feel at this moment,
In the end, I have no idea if there's going to be a third book or not but I wouldn't be mad if one randomly popped up either. I just need more cuteness please!
Out of Character is the second installment in the True Colors series. In it, you will meet Jasper and Milo. They used to be the best of friends until the day they just weren't. Which is why I was really excited to see how their romance would blossom once feelings came out to play.
Now I'll admit that these two were pretty freaking cute throughout the entire book. Their lives weren't completely easy but they eventually found a way back to one another. I honestly like their relationship but I at times I wanted things to slow down a bit. For some odd reason, it just felt like things were moving way too quickly for me. Which, yeah, is weird to say since they used to be friends and everything... but that's how I feel at this moment,
In the end, I have no idea if there's going to be a third book or not but I wouldn't be mad if one randomly popped up either. I just need more cuteness please!
July 13, 2021
I couldn’t wait to get Jasper’s book after I finished Conventionally Yours, it’s been a little wait but so worth it. I really enjoyed Jasper and Milo’s story. Annabeth Albert did a fantastic job with creating two characters that have a strained past and even knowing what happened to cause that friction you still can’t help but root for them to get together.
Milo finds himself in a bit of trouble and he needs his ex-best friends help, Jasper, is the only person Milo thinks of to help him out of the predicament he found himself in. In all of the scenarios Milo had fluttering through his head never did he think things would lead to where they did.
Jasper still holds a grudge after what happened with Milo in High School but when he's not going to help him without getting something out of it for himself, so if he wants Jasper to help him find the rare cards he needs Jasper is going to make sure he helps out at the Children's Hospital...costume and all!
This story had some great Cosplay moments in it, and not your typical ones either. I really enjoyed the way Jasper and Milo gradually reconnected, they didn't let their guards down right away but you could see how they were chipped at until the walls finally gave way.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book and really enjoyed it. Kirt Graves and Joel Froomkin did a wonderful job with bringing Jasper and Milo to life.
If you enjoy New Adult MM Romances, Cosplay, or Nerd/Jock Relationships then this one is for you.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewOfC
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
I also preordered a paperback copy of this book
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Milo finds himself in a bit of trouble and he needs his ex-best friends help, Jasper, is the only person Milo thinks of to help him out of the predicament he found himself in. In all of the scenarios Milo had fluttering through his head never did he think things would lead to where they did.
Jasper still holds a grudge after what happened with Milo in High School but when he's not going to help him without getting something out of it for himself, so if he wants Jasper to help him find the rare cards he needs Jasper is going to make sure he helps out at the Children's Hospital...costume and all!
This story had some great Cosplay moments in it, and not your typical ones either. I really enjoyed the way Jasper and Milo gradually reconnected, they didn't let their guards down right away but you could see how they were chipped at until the walls finally gave way.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book and really enjoyed it. Kirt Graves and Joel Froomkin did a wonderful job with bringing Jasper and Milo to life.
If you enjoy New Adult MM Romances, Cosplay, or Nerd/Jock Relationships then this one is for you.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewOfC
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**I also preordered a paperback copy of this book
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
January 31, 2022
4.5/5
Okay ex-best friends to lovers is a new fave!
Out of Character is a contemporary romance about two men who were best friends when they were kids, then had a falling out. Milo has never been one to dream big, he's only wanted to stop screwing up. But his latest mistake could cost him his relationship with his brother and it's something he's not willing to give up. The only person who could possibly help him is his ex-best friend, Jasper. Jasper wants to be the hero of his own life, but can helping his ex-best friend and past secret crush get him closer to that or just open a path to heartbreak?
Y'all this book was cute. Jasper and Milo are so soft. I loved seeing them grow close again. Also there was so much disability rep in this! Every time Jasper would adjust his pace to Milo's, I swear my eyes moistened a little. It's the smallest accommodation, but it made me happy.
I was really happy to see some of the characters from Conventionally Yours, especially Dr. Cuttle and his husband, Professor Herrera. I feel like we really got to see more of the older professors and it was so soft and sweet. Also I want more books with 1+ generation of queer characters. It makes me happy. I loved seeing Milo welcomed into Dr. Cuttle and Herrera's house so easily. Seeing him and Professor Herrera get to know each other was a highlight of this book.
Then there was the romance. I'm so gone for Jasper and Milo. There was a lot of baggage these two have to unpack and go through, but seeing them both become better for it was so invigorating. I especially loved seeing Milo realize he deserved better and taking steps to attain that for himself. And the realization you can ask for help was precious.
I will say there were an awful lot of gay men in this book. Which is fine, but like what happened to Peyton from book 1? Where were they? And why are there like zero queer women in this? Like there are definitely female nerds, just because it's a card game wouldn't mean there's zero. Idk this is a me hang up, but I just wanna know.
Rep: white gay male MC, white gay Italian male MC with an injured leg, white female side character with a chronic illness (genetic blood disorder), Latino achillean male side character, white achillean elderly male side character, autistic gay male side character and his boyfriend, various children with chronic illnesses/disabilities in a hospital in-patient ward.
CWs: Homophobia/homomisia, sexual content, injury/injury detail . Moderate: Ableism, past mentions of bullying, mentions of alcoholism/addiction, past death from chronic alcoholism, death of parent, medical content, cancer, chronic illness, past mentions of emotional abuse, grief, past car accident, toxic friendship.
Okay ex-best friends to lovers is a new fave!
Out of Character is a contemporary romance about two men who were best friends when they were kids, then had a falling out. Milo has never been one to dream big, he's only wanted to stop screwing up. But his latest mistake could cost him his relationship with his brother and it's something he's not willing to give up. The only person who could possibly help him is his ex-best friend, Jasper. Jasper wants to be the hero of his own life, but can helping his ex-best friend and past secret crush get him closer to that or just open a path to heartbreak?
Y'all this book was cute. Jasper and Milo are so soft. I loved seeing them grow close again. Also there was so much disability rep in this! Every time Jasper would adjust his pace to Milo's, I swear my eyes moistened a little. It's the smallest accommodation, but it made me happy.
I was really happy to see some of the characters from Conventionally Yours, especially Dr. Cuttle and his husband, Professor Herrera. I feel like we really got to see more of the older professors and it was so soft and sweet. Also I want more books with 1+ generation of queer characters. It makes me happy. I loved seeing Milo welcomed into Dr. Cuttle and Herrera's house so easily. Seeing him and Professor Herrera get to know each other was a highlight of this book.
Then there was the romance. I'm so gone for Jasper and Milo. There was a lot of baggage these two have to unpack and go through, but seeing them both become better for it was so invigorating. I especially loved seeing Milo realize he deserved better and taking steps to attain that for himself. And the realization you can ask for help was precious.
I will say there were an awful lot of gay men in this book. Which is fine, but like what happened to Peyton from book 1? Where were they? And why are there like zero queer women in this? Like there are definitely female nerds, just because it's a card game wouldn't mean there's zero. Idk this is a me hang up, but I just wanna know.
Rep: white gay male MC, white gay Italian male MC with an injured leg, white female side character with a chronic illness (genetic blood disorder), Latino achillean male side character, white achillean elderly male side character, autistic gay male side character and his boyfriend, various children with chronic illnesses/disabilities in a hospital in-patient ward.
CWs: Homophobia/homomisia, sexual content, injury/injury detail . Moderate: Ableism, past mentions of bullying, mentions of alcoholism/addiction, past death from chronic alcoholism, death of parent, medical content, cancer, chronic illness, past mentions of emotional abuse, grief, past car accident, toxic friendship.
March 7, 2022
Out of Character
, the second book in a series (after
Conventionally Yours
), is a story of second-chance love and believing you’re worthy of good things.
Milo and Jasper were inseparable best friends growing up. But when they hit high school, Milo became a jock and didn’t want to be associated with Jasper, because he didn’t want people to think he was gay. And while he never bullied Jasper himself, he never stopped those who did. Jasper has never forgiven him for that, or quite gotten over the hurt he felt.
A few years later, life hasn’t been easy for Milo. He’s close to rock bottom, and he keeps making mistakes. The only person who might be able to help him get back some rare game cards he lost in a bet is Jasper. But will Jasper help him after all that has transpired?
Seeing Milo again brings back some of the hurt, but Jasper always felt unable to resist him. And while he agrees to help Milo find the cards, there’s a price—he needs Milo to dress in costume for cosplay appearances they make at a children’s hospital. And as Milo gets more comfortable with being in costume, he starts to realize that he can actually make a difference in others’ lives in a positive way.
Little by little, Jasper and Milo start to rebuild their friendship. But Milo’s been hiding another secret—he’s always been in love with Jasper. Will Jasper believe him capable of change? Is Milo ready to be honest with those around him—and himself—and believe he’s worthy of being cared about?
This was a very sweet story. I love this type of plot, the hybrid of second chance and friends to lovers, as well as rebuilding one's self-esteem. The pacing was a little slow at times, but I liked how Annabeth Albert avoids a lot of the stereotypical pitfalls I was expecting the plot to fall into. Perfect for romance lovers!!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2021 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2022/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2021.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Milo and Jasper were inseparable best friends growing up. But when they hit high school, Milo became a jock and didn’t want to be associated with Jasper, because he didn’t want people to think he was gay. And while he never bullied Jasper himself, he never stopped those who did. Jasper has never forgiven him for that, or quite gotten over the hurt he felt.
A few years later, life hasn’t been easy for Milo. He’s close to rock bottom, and he keeps making mistakes. The only person who might be able to help him get back some rare game cards he lost in a bet is Jasper. But will Jasper help him after all that has transpired?
Seeing Milo again brings back some of the hurt, but Jasper always felt unable to resist him. And while he agrees to help Milo find the cards, there’s a price—he needs Milo to dress in costume for cosplay appearances they make at a children’s hospital. And as Milo gets more comfortable with being in costume, he starts to realize that he can actually make a difference in others’ lives in a positive way.
Little by little, Jasper and Milo start to rebuild their friendship. But Milo’s been hiding another secret—he’s always been in love with Jasper. Will Jasper believe him capable of change? Is Milo ready to be honest with those around him—and himself—and believe he’s worthy of being cared about?
This was a very sweet story. I love this type of plot, the hybrid of second chance and friends to lovers, as well as rebuilding one's self-esteem. The pacing was a little slow at times, but I liked how Annabeth Albert avoids a lot of the stereotypical pitfalls I was expecting the plot to fall into. Perfect for romance lovers!!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2021 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2022/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2021.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
November 20, 2021
3.75 stars rounded up
A cute friends-to-enemies-to-friends-to-lovers story :). I definitely loved Milo's journey better though. Don't get me wrong, I think Jasper has a lot of roles in it, making Milo realizes the better version of himself. But Milo's voice, his struggles, his fears, his worries, and then his battle to be better, touched to me more than Jasper's way of forgiveness
A cute friends-to-enemies-to-friends-to-lovers story :). I definitely loved Milo's journey better though. Don't get me wrong, I think Jasper has a lot of roles in it, making Milo realizes the better version of himself. But Milo's voice, his struggles, his fears, his worries, and then his battle to be better, touched to me more than Jasper's way of forgiveness
November 15, 2021
Ok so this but was pretty disappointing since I LOVED the first one. What made it so great though was my own stupidity not knowing how the two books connected till the end.
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