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Showers Flowers and Fangs
Darren is your average half-human, half-fae trans teenager, busy figuring out his powers and puberty while trying to survive finals. When Vlad, a newly turned vampire, moves in with the witch down the street, he and Darren get off on the wrong foot. Darren is always one to give somebody a second chance, though, and as they become friends, he realizes Vlad is just lonely and struggling with his new powers. That's something Darren can definitely relate to, and he's happy to lend his support.
But while he coaxes Vlad out of his shell, Darren ends up learning about Vlad's past... and the danger Vlad is in.
Darren only wants to help--help Vlad feel comfortable in his own skin and help him feel safe.
He hadn't planned on falling in love.
But while he coaxes Vlad out of his shell, Darren ends up learning about Vlad's past... and the danger Vlad is in.
Darren only wants to help--help Vlad feel comfortable in his own skin and help him feel safe.
He hadn't planned on falling in love.
240 pages, Paperback
First published December 11, 2018
4 people are currently reading
591 people want to read
About the author
Aidan Wayne
12 books78 followersAidan Wayne has been publishing LGBTQ+ fiction since 2016. While they usually stick with contemporary romance (both adult and YA), some soft sci-fi/fantasy has been known to sneak in as well. They primarily write character-driven stories with happy endings, because, dammit, queer people deserve happy endings too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
January 5, 2019
4 Stars
This was a very sweet, witty, and wildly imaginative fantasy themed LGBT YA story.
Set in an alternate universe where magical beings co-exist with humans, this story follows half-human, half-fae transgender teen Darren, as he meets, befriends, and eventually forms a romantic relationship with Vlad, a moody and mysterious newly-turned vampire teen who moves in down the street and is haunted by his past.
The two magical teens get off to a rocky start, but I enjoyed watching their relationship unfold. First they became friends and allies, supporting each other in times of personal need and helping one another cultivate and control their magical abilities. It was only once these strong bonds of friendship and trust were formed that more romantic feelings evolved, making their transition from friends to boyfriends natural and authentic.
I really enjoyed the cast of characters present here. Darren, in particular, was a great YA lead. His personality was highly entertaining, often saying and doing things that had me chuckling in delight. I also appreciated how candid and relatable he was, particularly in relation to being a trans teenager dealing with real world issues like puberty and self-image, as well as the more fantastical elements of his development, like the progression of his fae abilities and the impact they had on his everyday life.
Although I loved many elements of this story, from the characters themselves to the sweet romance that blossomed between Darren and Vlad, I think the world building was probably my most favourite thing about this story. I was completely immersed in this small town magical world. Mostly, I enjoyed Wayne’s unique and often humorous take on many of the traits we commonly relate to various magical/mythical beings. Everything about this story was fresh and fun and I greatly appreciated that.
I had a good time reading Showers, Flowers, and Fangs and I not-so-subtly have my fingers crossed for a sequel in this fun little world.
This was a very sweet, witty, and wildly imaginative fantasy themed LGBT YA story.
Set in an alternate universe where magical beings co-exist with humans, this story follows half-human, half-fae transgender teen Darren, as he meets, befriends, and eventually forms a romantic relationship with Vlad, a moody and mysterious newly-turned vampire teen who moves in down the street and is haunted by his past.
The two magical teens get off to a rocky start, but I enjoyed watching their relationship unfold. First they became friends and allies, supporting each other in times of personal need and helping one another cultivate and control their magical abilities. It was only once these strong bonds of friendship and trust were formed that more romantic feelings evolved, making their transition from friends to boyfriends natural and authentic.
I really enjoyed the cast of characters present here. Darren, in particular, was a great YA lead. His personality was highly entertaining, often saying and doing things that had me chuckling in delight. I also appreciated how candid and relatable he was, particularly in relation to being a trans teenager dealing with real world issues like puberty and self-image, as well as the more fantastical elements of his development, like the progression of his fae abilities and the impact they had on his everyday life.
Although I loved many elements of this story, from the characters themselves to the sweet romance that blossomed between Darren and Vlad, I think the world building was probably my most favourite thing about this story. I was completely immersed in this small town magical world. Mostly, I enjoyed Wayne’s unique and often humorous take on many of the traits we commonly relate to various magical/mythical beings. Everything about this story was fresh and fun and I greatly appreciated that.
I had a good time reading Showers, Flowers, and Fangs and I not-so-subtly have my fingers crossed for a sequel in this fun little world.
December 3, 2019
4 Stars
I am a big Aidan Wayne fan. I find their stories so comforting and gentle. They write about genuinely nice people, characters who would make amazing friends in real life.
"Shower, Flowers, and Fangs" is lovely. There is diversity, inclusion, and a truly heartwarming sense of belonging. The MCs feel youthful, and their burgeoning romance is all sorts of sweetness and adorableness. Throw in some creative world building and some suspense, and this is a fun read.
Recommend!
I am a big Aidan Wayne fan. I find their stories so comforting and gentle. They write about genuinely nice people, characters who would make amazing friends in real life.
"Shower, Flowers, and Fangs" is lovely. There is diversity, inclusion, and a truly heartwarming sense of belonging. The MCs feel youthful, and their burgeoning romance is all sorts of sweetness and adorableness. Throw in some creative world building and some suspense, and this is a fun read.
Recommend!
December 12, 2018
Darren is a half-human, half-fae transgender teen … and when we first meet him on the first page, Darren is suffering from menstruation cramps. (I don’t know why, but I really love that the author adds this scene to the book!) ...
Anyway, Darren then meets this newly turned vampire, Vlad the Vampire (he’s from Ukraine!), who’s also a newcomer in town. Their first meeting is not exactly meet-cute (Darren thinks Vlad is sniffing him, which is RUDE! *laugh*) but then Darren befriends Vlad, because he seems lonely, this vampire.
This is a delightful and wonderful read!! I LOVED Darren so much!! I loved his positivity. I loved the way Darren approached Vlad, and slowly coaxed this vampire out of his shell. I loved how their friendship bloomed. I loved how Darren sometimes acting a bit dramatic – yes, he’s a teenager after all! – when he thinks he hurts Vlad or when he thinks Vlad is being sad.
I think I spent reading this book with a lot of smile to my face because Darren is just ADORABLE and his moments with Vlad were super cute!
There’s a slight mystery behind Vlad elusiveness, on why he seemed to want to keep himself secret from people, and I thought it added to a fun time near the end. Especially because it also showed a new aspect of Darren’s power as half-human half-fae.
I love Aidan Wayne’s stories that I have read so far – and this one is another winner for me.
PS: This falls into low-steam category of Young Adult book; only couple of kisses…
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Anyway, Darren then meets this newly turned vampire, Vlad the Vampire (he’s from Ukraine!), who’s also a newcomer in town. Their first meeting is not exactly meet-cute (Darren thinks Vlad is sniffing him, which is RUDE! *laugh*) but then Darren befriends Vlad, because he seems lonely, this vampire.
This is a delightful and wonderful read!! I LOVED Darren so much!! I loved his positivity. I loved the way Darren approached Vlad, and slowly coaxed this vampire out of his shell. I loved how their friendship bloomed. I loved how Darren sometimes acting a bit dramatic – yes, he’s a teenager after all! – when he thinks he hurts Vlad or when he thinks Vlad is being sad.
I think I spent reading this book with a lot of smile to my face because Darren is just ADORABLE and his moments with Vlad were super cute!
There’s a slight mystery behind Vlad elusiveness, on why he seemed to want to keep himself secret from people, and I thought it added to a fun time near the end. Especially because it also showed a new aspect of Darren’s power as half-human half-fae.
I love Aidan Wayne’s stories that I have read so far – and this one is another winner for me.
PS: This falls into low-steam category of Young Adult book; only couple of kisses…
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
February 8, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
How is it a story about a half-fae and his vampire boyfriend can be so … wholesome? Not only is Darren adorable, but he manages to be charming and sweet and good. Vlad may not be Prince Charming, but he has some smooth moves, such as coming to visit bearing chocolate after Darren mentions it in passing as a wonderful way to start a relationship, though he’s talking about an almost boyfriend from when he was thirteen. Darren is a little oblivious and Vlad is a little subtle; fortunately, though, Darren eventually manages to catch on. After Vlad tells him what he’s trying to do. It’s cute.
Darren is a good person. He’s willing to give everyone he meets a chance and is willing to forgive most slights — so long as they weren’t intentional. Even when he’s showing Vlad his magic, it’s not so much showing off as sharing with great joy and enthusiasm. He honestly, truly, and sincerely wants Vlad to be happy, to come out of his shell and out of his room and make friends with people. When Darren realizes he has feelings for Vlad, he’s reluctant to confess them because he doesn’t want to make Vlad uncomfortable, or take away Vlad’s only friend (himself), or have Vlad feeling obligated to humor them. He isn’t selfish, even in his most self-centered moments.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
How is it a story about a half-fae and his vampire boyfriend can be so … wholesome? Not only is Darren adorable, but he manages to be charming and sweet and good. Vlad may not be Prince Charming, but he has some smooth moves, such as coming to visit bearing chocolate after Darren mentions it in passing as a wonderful way to start a relationship, though he’s talking about an almost boyfriend from when he was thirteen. Darren is a little oblivious and Vlad is a little subtle; fortunately, though, Darren eventually manages to catch on. After Vlad tells him what he’s trying to do. It’s cute.
Darren is a good person. He’s willing to give everyone he meets a chance and is willing to forgive most slights — so long as they weren’t intentional. Even when he’s showing Vlad his magic, it’s not so much showing off as sharing with great joy and enthusiasm. He honestly, truly, and sincerely wants Vlad to be happy, to come out of his shell and out of his room and make friends with people. When Darren realizes he has feelings for Vlad, he’s reluctant to confess them because he doesn’t want to make Vlad uncomfortable, or take away Vlad’s only friend (himself), or have Vlad feeling obligated to humor them. He isn’t selfish, even in his most self-centered moments.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
August 6, 2019
DNF at the end of Chapter 1.
Although I am sure the story did turned out to be as cute as the other reviewers say it was, I couldn't get past the Meet Ugly aspect at the start of the story.
TL;DR: A YA featuring diverse characters and a premise that sounded hella adorable. Unfortunately (for me), I felt such bad secondhand embarrassment at the beginning of the novel that I lost all of my enthusiasm for the rest of the book. I borrowed this from the library. :(
Although I am sure the story did turned out to be as cute as the other reviewers say it was, I couldn't get past the Meet Ugly aspect at the start of the story.
TL;DR: A YA featuring diverse characters and a premise that sounded hella adorable. Unfortunately (for me), I felt such bad secondhand embarrassment at the beginning of the novel that I lost all of my enthusiasm for the rest of the book. I borrowed this from the library. :(
March 13, 2020
Some books just have all the elements I love to see when diving into a story, and ‘Showers, Flowers, and Fangs’ checked all the boxes for me. The worldbuilding is excellent with a mix of supernatural species set in a unique world with its own history and rules that added a sense of mystery and enabled me to discover its secrets as events unfolded. The main character, Darren, is trans, half human and half fae, but his special power only emerges slowly and the reveal is very well done. The plot focuses on Darren discovering the truth about vampires, dealing with challenges in school, and figuring out his mysterious powers. There is the threat of Vlad's "mother", but it bubbles along in the background while Darren and Vlad deal with the rest of their problems – until everything comes to head and there is an epic confrontation, a fight, a retreat, and another battle. I found it very engaging and was almost unable to put the book down for much-needed breaks. It’s one of the best YA books I have ever read.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
January 7, 2020
Ah, I liked this so much!
The worldbuilding was so much fun, the relationship was really cute and the two main characters were amazing and interesting and lovely teenage characters. It was just a soft read and I read it so fast and enjoyed it so much.
The trans rep was incredible and I loved how it related to the worldbuilding (reminded me of certain things I've written, haha, so I obviously liked it).
There isn't a whole lot of plot but I honestly didn't care at all, because the characters and their relationship were so lovely. It was just a lovely read, honestly.
The worldbuilding was so much fun, the relationship was really cute and the two main characters were amazing and interesting and lovely teenage characters. It was just a soft read and I read it so fast and enjoyed it so much.
The trans rep was incredible and I loved how it related to the worldbuilding (reminded me of certain things I've written, haha, so I obviously liked it).
There isn't a whole lot of plot but I honestly didn't care at all, because the characters and their relationship were so lovely. It was just a lovely read, honestly.
May 24, 2025
I started reading this on the Kindle app, and I liked it so much that I had to buy a physical copy! Then the physical copy arrived, and it was so tiny (just over 170 pages) and I already knew I was gonna be disappointed. What was good was VERY good, but the length of the story, and therefore the pacing, left me really dissatisfied.
The story is about Darren, a half-fae trans high schooler who's just doing what half-fae trans high schoolers do. And he meets Vlad, a newly turned vampire who just moved in with the witch down the street. Vlad is running from something. They become friends, develop crushes on each other, help each other through the trials of being supernatural teenagers (supernatural problems and regular human problems both!), and deal with some brief terrifying experiences together. There are lots of laughs and feels throughout, as well as SASS.
Darren is a sort of hyperactive type, he talks constantly and sometimes awkwardly, but he is a good person, bubbly and honest, and more often than not he's talking so much to try to make Vlad feel comfortable.
Vlad is troubled due to the trauma of his past and his constant fear that it is going to catch up with him. However, he's very compassionate and polite, and a total gentleman. He first meets Darren when Darren is going to Tabitha (the witch Vlad lives with) for herbal remedies for his severe period pains. He's pretty confused that Darren is menstruating yet is male, has clearly never heard of a trans person before, but he is a supportive ally even though he clearly doesn't understand. Notable examples!
Darren uses a glamour to make himself appear male, though it doesn't work on everyone depending on their own supernatural abilities. Vlad expresses early on that he's glad he can't see through Darren's glamour, because "I'd rather see the real you".
At one point, Vlad compares Darren's ability to summon forest animals to being a Disney princess, but he quickly amends himself to say "prince" instead, because he recognises that referring to Darren as female in any context could potentially be unpleasant for Darren.
Near the halfway point, Darren and Vlad have a conversation about what Darren's options are for his future regarding the physical aspects of his gender. Darren says he's relatively happy with his body right now, and it would only be a problem if he tried to date anyone (which it has been in the past). He makes a comment that he can't "glamour up a penis", and Vlad, the great lil boi that he is, tells Darren that whether or not he has one shouldn't matter.
Vlad develops an obvious crush on Darren long before Darren starts crushing on Vlad. And the vampire lad is so sweet, honestly. He does the chivalrous thing when Darren is suffering terribly through his period. Actually several chivalrous things. He makes him a special herbal tea, makes sure he eats, stays with him through all the loopiness that comes with the herbal painkillers, and even puts a ruined bed sheet into some cold water to make the stain easier to get out! HE'S A KEEPER. He also brings Darren a chocolate bar after Darren jokes that all good relationships start with chocolate, brings over flowers (and then dandelions because he knows Darren loves them), and even orders ice cream in a cone as opposed to a cup. Vlad cannot eat the cone, but having it in the cone means he can hold Darren's hand while they're on their date. I just contracted DIABEETUS. And of course, Vlad makes The Jokes sometimes, such as when Darren is explaining about the birds and the bees, and how being fae in springtime makes basically being horny more prominent, and Vlad asks "Your fae side is making you want to have sex with birds?"
One super tropey romantic thing I like is when Character A is just loving life, in-their-element joyful and happy, and Character B just watches and falls more in love with them. Such as on page 96, when Darren is PSYCHED for this thunderstorm and goes outside to frolic in it, and Vlad just watches like some kind of lovestruck fool. Not that Darren notices he's lovestruck, but we KNOW >:D Along the same vein (it's funny because VAMPIRES), Darren is ranting about something at some point, and Vlad is just watching him with that dopey look on his face when he interrupts and asks to kiss Darren, like the gentleman he is. I had to pause to "aw".
Anyway, predictably, Vlad's past catches up with him. It was really spoiled by how short the book is and how fast those two dramatic climaxes were, but once the Big Bad showed up, it was with a really sickening jolt that I realised how deeply Vlad's abuse ran. The few times Vlad briefly talked about the vampire who turned him (it was a point of intrigue since chapter 1), it became clear he was turned against his will, and suffered a lot under her control. And when she shows up, that awful "oh" moment just hit me so hard.
Some of it was very emotional, such as when Darren and Vlad talk about Vlad's parents. They believe he is dead, and Vlad says that it's probably better this way; better to think he's dead than know they have a vampire for a son. You see, they aren't terribly accepting of differences, as was proven when Vlad kissed a boy and his parents did NOT react well.
However, some of the heavy emotions were cut really short by how short the book was. The brief aftermath of the Big Bad scenes didn't give Vlad a lot of time to experience the feelings he'd no doubt be feeling. Plenty of time passed of course, but because we are in Darren's head all of the time, and because these scenes just flew by, it feels like Vlad's experiences aren't really addressed or explored. Particularly near the end, with less than 50 pages to go without the climax, I just knew things would be rushed. And I was right. It left me really disappointed. The author spent a long time lovingly developing the friendship between Vlad and Darren first, fleshing them out as characters, then leading them into their romance, only to just hurry through the action and the parts that would show the characters in a different light. Not only that, the characters dealing with what happened is rushed too.
I really liked this book, but the fact that it's so short and the climaxes are so rushed is like...pbtbtbtbtbt. I'm upset. I was really looking forward to a queer vampire romance, but the last third of the book let it down. I keep repeating myself, but I'M JUST SO DISAPPOINTED BECAUSE IT WAS ALL SO GOOD UP TO THAT POINT. And even that point was okay and enjoyable and scary when it needed to be, but it WASN'T ENOUGH.
The story is about Darren, a half-fae trans high schooler who's just doing what half-fae trans high schoolers do. And he meets Vlad, a newly turned vampire who just moved in with the witch down the street. Vlad is running from something. They become friends, develop crushes on each other, help each other through the trials of being supernatural teenagers (supernatural problems and regular human problems both!), and deal with some brief terrifying experiences together. There are lots of laughs and feels throughout, as well as SASS.
Darren is a sort of hyperactive type, he talks constantly and sometimes awkwardly, but he is a good person, bubbly and honest, and more often than not he's talking so much to try to make Vlad feel comfortable.
Vlad is troubled due to the trauma of his past and his constant fear that it is going to catch up with him. However, he's very compassionate and polite, and a total gentleman. He first meets Darren when Darren is going to Tabitha (the witch Vlad lives with) for herbal remedies for his severe period pains. He's pretty confused that Darren is menstruating yet is male, has clearly never heard of a trans person before, but he is a supportive ally even though he clearly doesn't understand. Notable examples!
Darren uses a glamour to make himself appear male, though it doesn't work on everyone depending on their own supernatural abilities. Vlad expresses early on that he's glad he can't see through Darren's glamour, because "I'd rather see the real you".
At one point, Vlad compares Darren's ability to summon forest animals to being a Disney princess, but he quickly amends himself to say "prince" instead, because he recognises that referring to Darren as female in any context could potentially be unpleasant for Darren.
Near the halfway point, Darren and Vlad have a conversation about what Darren's options are for his future regarding the physical aspects of his gender. Darren says he's relatively happy with his body right now, and it would only be a problem if he tried to date anyone (which it has been in the past). He makes a comment that he can't "glamour up a penis", and Vlad, the great lil boi that he is, tells Darren that whether or not he has one shouldn't matter.
Vlad develops an obvious crush on Darren long before Darren starts crushing on Vlad. And the vampire lad is so sweet, honestly. He does the chivalrous thing when Darren is suffering terribly through his period. Actually several chivalrous things. He makes him a special herbal tea, makes sure he eats, stays with him through all the loopiness that comes with the herbal painkillers, and even puts a ruined bed sheet into some cold water to make the stain easier to get out! HE'S A KEEPER. He also brings Darren a chocolate bar after Darren jokes that all good relationships start with chocolate, brings over flowers (and then dandelions because he knows Darren loves them), and even orders ice cream in a cone as opposed to a cup. Vlad cannot eat the cone, but having it in the cone means he can hold Darren's hand while they're on their date. I just contracted DIABEETUS. And of course, Vlad makes The Jokes sometimes, such as when Darren is explaining about the birds and the bees, and how being fae in springtime makes basically being horny more prominent, and Vlad asks "Your fae side is making you want to have sex with birds?"
One super tropey romantic thing I like is when Character A is just loving life, in-their-element joyful and happy, and Character B just watches and falls more in love with them. Such as on page 96, when Darren is PSYCHED for this thunderstorm and goes outside to frolic in it, and Vlad just watches like some kind of lovestruck fool. Not that Darren notices he's lovestruck, but we KNOW >:D Along the same vein (it's funny because VAMPIRES), Darren is ranting about something at some point, and Vlad is just watching him with that dopey look on his face when he interrupts and asks to kiss Darren, like the gentleman he is. I had to pause to "aw".
Anyway, predictably, Vlad's past catches up with him. It was really spoiled by how short the book is and how fast those two dramatic climaxes were, but once the Big Bad showed up, it was with a really sickening jolt that I realised how deeply Vlad's abuse ran. The few times Vlad briefly talked about the vampire who turned him (it was a point of intrigue since chapter 1), it became clear he was turned against his will, and suffered a lot under her control. And when she shows up, that awful "oh" moment just hit me so hard.
Some of it was very emotional, such as when Darren and Vlad talk about Vlad's parents. They believe he is dead, and Vlad says that it's probably better this way; better to think he's dead than know they have a vampire for a son. You see, they aren't terribly accepting of differences, as was proven when Vlad kissed a boy and his parents did NOT react well.
However, some of the heavy emotions were cut really short by how short the book was. The brief aftermath of the Big Bad scenes didn't give Vlad a lot of time to experience the feelings he'd no doubt be feeling. Plenty of time passed of course, but because we are in Darren's head all of the time, and because these scenes just flew by, it feels like Vlad's experiences aren't really addressed or explored. Particularly near the end, with less than 50 pages to go without the climax, I just knew things would be rushed. And I was right. It left me really disappointed. The author spent a long time lovingly developing the friendship between Vlad and Darren first, fleshing them out as characters, then leading them into their romance, only to just hurry through the action and the parts that would show the characters in a different light. Not only that, the characters dealing with what happened is rushed too.
I really liked this book, but the fact that it's so short and the climaxes are so rushed is like...pbtbtbtbtbt. I'm upset. I was really looking forward to a queer vampire romance, but the last third of the book let it down. I keep repeating myself, but I'M JUST SO DISAPPOINTED BECAUSE IT WAS ALL SO GOOD UP TO THAT POINT. And even that point was okay and enjoyable and scary when it needed to be, but it WASN'T ENOUGH.
January 30, 2021
3.5/5* This was a really sweet, enjoyable story. Definitely worth the read if it’s up your alley.
February 11, 2019
4.5 stars
I have one word for this: adorable!This was such an enjoyable read. Due to the shortness of this book the worlbuilding is a little bit... I dunno what word to use,maybe brief? but actually not in a bad way. we get enough information that we need to understand what/who the main characters are,the supernatural elements are explained and I really liked how unique this little world is. The fae stuff especially was delightful. I would love to read more in this universe because I loved all the little glimpses into some other supernatural creatures. Darren,the main character,is incredibly likeable. I was in love with him from page 1 basically. I don't want to make (false) assumptions about the author but judging from the use of they/them in the description,this is an #ownvoices story? It showed. I liked how Darren being trans wasn't just used as an afterthought ("this is Darren,he is trans" and then it's never mentioned again or something like that. I've seen that in other books). It plays a big role because you have the experience of a trans person combined with the unique experience of a supernatural being. I loved that.
Vlad is a great character too. Naturally we don't really spend a lot of time in his head but we learn enough about him through Darren's eyes. Vlad's initial shyness combined with his empathy and him being so acceptance made for a winning combination. He and Darren are a perfect fit then. The friendship between them is super cute and the budding romance,albeit a bit on the short side,too. For my taste it took them a bit too long to get there but that's the only criticism that I have...
I have one word for this: adorable!This was such an enjoyable read. Due to the shortness of this book the worlbuilding is a little bit... I dunno what word to use,maybe brief? but actually not in a bad way. we get enough information that we need to understand what/who the main characters are,the supernatural elements are explained and I really liked how unique this little world is. The fae stuff especially was delightful. I would love to read more in this universe because I loved all the little glimpses into some other supernatural creatures. Darren,the main character,is incredibly likeable. I was in love with him from page 1 basically. I don't want to make (false) assumptions about the author but judging from the use of they/them in the description,this is an #ownvoices story? It showed. I liked how Darren being trans wasn't just used as an afterthought ("this is Darren,he is trans" and then it's never mentioned again or something like that. I've seen that in other books). It plays a big role because you have the experience of a trans person combined with the unique experience of a supernatural being. I loved that.
Vlad is a great character too. Naturally we don't really spend a lot of time in his head but we learn enough about him through Darren's eyes. Vlad's initial shyness combined with his empathy and him being so acceptance made for a winning combination. He and Darren are a perfect fit then. The friendship between them is super cute and the budding romance,albeit a bit on the short side,too. For my taste it took them a bit too long to get there but that's the only criticism that I have...
March 3, 2021
I go back and forth on this book. There were some cute scenes and sweet moments, but I never really got hooked. Maybe it's just my age showing, but the characters irritated me and I felt like there was a lot more going on in this world and with Darren's friends that the author didn't let us in on. It is sugary sweet in certain moments, and I enjoyed the urban fantasy elements. But I feel like it just wasn't polished enough.
I feel bad not giving this a higher rating because there isn't enough LGBT and specifically trans representation out there. I would absolutely recommend this to students and would include it in a middle school or high school library if I was in charge of the collection, but it's not necessarily ~good~. Maybe I'm just not the target audience for YA anymore? (says the 26-year-old...)
I feel bad not giving this a higher rating because there isn't enough LGBT and specifically trans representation out there. I would absolutely recommend this to students and would include it in a middle school or high school library if I was in charge of the collection, but it's not necessarily ~good~. Maybe I'm just not the target audience for YA anymore? (says the 26-year-old...)
December 11, 2018
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
Showers, Flowers and Fangs
Aidan Wayne
★★★★★
190 Pages
POV: 3rd person, one character
Would I read it again?: Of course!
Genre: LGBT, YA, Fae, Trans, Fantasy, MM, Paranormal, Vampire
Pairings: MM
Ugh, this was just...lovely, sweet, and everything I needed from a book.
First off, kudos to Aidan Wayne for writing a trans, FTM main character who is REAL! And for understanding the plight that is period week. I mean, thank you! This was everything I hoped for and everything teenagers need. Whether a trans kid picks this up and feels better about not being alone in the struggle, or a cis kid picks it up and can understand their trans friend better, this story has a lot to give. It has the understanding, a non-lecturing exploration of trans life as a teenager, and a really beautiful romance and self-discovery plot that leave you with the warm and fuzzy feeling that says “this was so good I'll read it again.”
It had real struggles for a teenager going through puberty, while dealing with the emotional and physical fallout of being a trans teen. Binding, periods, the self-doubt and self-acceptance, the self-image issues, and all while being a half-Fae, adding in magical abilities to everything else Darren is going through. AND exams! This story felt so much like an authentic #ownvoice story that I had no trouble connecting to, embracing, appreciating and relating to Darren as a main character. Some of his struggles are universally “teenager” and “high school” while some were specifically trans-related, and yet, I'm a cis, white, asexual female and I never once had trouble connecting to him or understanding his journey. That's a sign of good writing, right there.
The writing was just my style. It gave me what I needed to understand and follow the story, without being overbearing or overly descriptive. It had characterisation that didn't require stopping for info-dumps, and it had real, honest to God awkward teenage conversations. It was like being taken straight back to high school all over again, and remembering the stuttering, uncertain way it felt to be a teenager, never knowing what to say or do, never sure how to act, or what was appropriate. Yet, Darren and Vlad both talk openly – argue plenty, too – about Darren's transition, Vlad's background, race, orientation. Just in that really awkward way that teenagers do. Through misunderstandings, misjudging, misinterpreting a conversation, and then having to actually spell it out when things boil to a head.
The plot is really original. I've never seen vampires explored in this way before. With a teen vampire, recently turned, trying and floundering through learning how to be a vampire. Making mistakes. Nearly killing himself with those mistakes. It was really cleverly conceived and well written. I loved that it didn't linger throughout school classes, since Darren and Vlad's interactions all happened outside of school. And though there were time jumps of a few days at a time, quite often, it felt natural for the story. We got to see enough of Darren's friendship with the girls, Trisha and Beth, to get a real sense of their personalities as well as their connection and friendship.
Darren's friendship with Vlad, in a similar way, was really nicely explored throughout the book. It wasn't until nearly 70% that things became “more than friends” and especially awkward for it. Until then, we got to watch these two kids drift from total strangers to grudging companionship, to best friends, and then into boyfriends. And it was really lovely to see. To watch the chemistry build over time, while they battled other issues, learned about their magic, and began to trust each other. I loved that Darren and Vlad were each strong in different ways, they each had their own talents and strengths, and they supported each other. Darren didn't allow Vlad to get away with false bravado, while Vlad didn't allow Darren to remain too reckless, yet they each supported and cared about the other, looking after each other, when things didn't go to plan.
The story artfully broke down gender expectations, subtly and without show, to a point where there was no obvious gender divide. Beth was female, but a future Alpha figure; Trish was female, but romantic and thoughtful; Darren was FTM, yet was strong, adventurous, and sometimes dramatic; Vlad was male, but nervous, afraid and unsure. There was a freedom of voice in both the main and secondary characters that made it honest and real.
And all wrapped up with a beautiful, totally fitting, cover. One that I'll be making space on my bookshelf for, so I can buy the paperback the minute it's available.
~
Favourite Quotes
“Shut up, your face is dumb.”
““I didn't almost die,” Vlad muttered, following Darren. “You are exaggerating.”
Darren clutched at his chest. “I would never.”
“I do not even know why I like you.”
“But you do like me.”
Vlad smiled at him, stepping closer. “I suppose.”
“Right,” Darren said, leaning in. “Because I'm delightful.””
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
Showers, Flowers and Fangs
Aidan Wayne
★★★★★
190 Pages
POV: 3rd person, one character
Would I read it again?: Of course!
Genre: LGBT, YA, Fae, Trans, Fantasy, MM, Paranormal, Vampire
Pairings: MM
Ugh, this was just...lovely, sweet, and everything I needed from a book.
First off, kudos to Aidan Wayne for writing a trans, FTM main character who is REAL! And for understanding the plight that is period week. I mean, thank you! This was everything I hoped for and everything teenagers need. Whether a trans kid picks this up and feels better about not being alone in the struggle, or a cis kid picks it up and can understand their trans friend better, this story has a lot to give. It has the understanding, a non-lecturing exploration of trans life as a teenager, and a really beautiful romance and self-discovery plot that leave you with the warm and fuzzy feeling that says “this was so good I'll read it again.”
It had real struggles for a teenager going through puberty, while dealing with the emotional and physical fallout of being a trans teen. Binding, periods, the self-doubt and self-acceptance, the self-image issues, and all while being a half-Fae, adding in magical abilities to everything else Darren is going through. AND exams! This story felt so much like an authentic #ownvoice story that I had no trouble connecting to, embracing, appreciating and relating to Darren as a main character. Some of his struggles are universally “teenager” and “high school” while some were specifically trans-related, and yet, I'm a cis, white, asexual female and I never once had trouble connecting to him or understanding his journey. That's a sign of good writing, right there.
The writing was just my style. It gave me what I needed to understand and follow the story, without being overbearing or overly descriptive. It had characterisation that didn't require stopping for info-dumps, and it had real, honest to God awkward teenage conversations. It was like being taken straight back to high school all over again, and remembering the stuttering, uncertain way it felt to be a teenager, never knowing what to say or do, never sure how to act, or what was appropriate. Yet, Darren and Vlad both talk openly – argue plenty, too – about Darren's transition, Vlad's background, race, orientation. Just in that really awkward way that teenagers do. Through misunderstandings, misjudging, misinterpreting a conversation, and then having to actually spell it out when things boil to a head.
The plot is really original. I've never seen vampires explored in this way before. With a teen vampire, recently turned, trying and floundering through learning how to be a vampire. Making mistakes. Nearly killing himself with those mistakes. It was really cleverly conceived and well written. I loved that it didn't linger throughout school classes, since Darren and Vlad's interactions all happened outside of school. And though there were time jumps of a few days at a time, quite often, it felt natural for the story. We got to see enough of Darren's friendship with the girls, Trisha and Beth, to get a real sense of their personalities as well as their connection and friendship.
Darren's friendship with Vlad, in a similar way, was really nicely explored throughout the book. It wasn't until nearly 70% that things became “more than friends” and especially awkward for it. Until then, we got to watch these two kids drift from total strangers to grudging companionship, to best friends, and then into boyfriends. And it was really lovely to see. To watch the chemistry build over time, while they battled other issues, learned about their magic, and began to trust each other. I loved that Darren and Vlad were each strong in different ways, they each had their own talents and strengths, and they supported each other. Darren didn't allow Vlad to get away with false bravado, while Vlad didn't allow Darren to remain too reckless, yet they each supported and cared about the other, looking after each other, when things didn't go to plan.
The story artfully broke down gender expectations, subtly and without show, to a point where there was no obvious gender divide. Beth was female, but a future Alpha figure; Trish was female, but romantic and thoughtful; Darren was FTM, yet was strong, adventurous, and sometimes dramatic; Vlad was male, but nervous, afraid and unsure. There was a freedom of voice in both the main and secondary characters that made it honest and real.
And all wrapped up with a beautiful, totally fitting, cover. One that I'll be making space on my bookshelf for, so I can buy the paperback the minute it's available.
~
Favourite Quotes
“Shut up, your face is dumb.”
““I didn't almost die,” Vlad muttered, following Darren. “You are exaggerating.”
Darren clutched at his chest. “I would never.”
“I do not even know why I like you.”
“But you do like me.”
Vlad smiled at him, stepping closer. “I suppose.”
“Right,” Darren said, leaning in. “Because I'm delightful.””
December 27, 2019
I liked Vlad, a lot. I like the kind of sunny setting where everything is fine and gay people can be and do whatever they want. I really liked the final act, but that's because I like conflict and drama. But I've read stories without tension or a great conflict (The Starless Sea is one), so I would've been fine without it too.
But.
On a technical level, this is a MESS. Every scene ends up with Darren and Vlad talking, a lot, and so the entire novel ends up 99% telling with dialogue just taking up the entire space. I'm even beyond the prose. Fine, not my type, a little too conversational for me, whatever. But the dialogue thing made this a really frustrating read for me. You read the potential but at the same time you're reading the book that you do, so...
But I do need more of this sunny, inclusive YA fantasy. I really do.
But.
On a technical level, this is a MESS. Every scene ends up with Darren and Vlad talking, a lot, and so the entire novel ends up 99% telling with dialogue just taking up the entire space. I'm even beyond the prose. Fine, not my type, a little too conversational for me, whatever. But the dialogue thing made this a really frustrating read for me. You read the potential but at the same time you're reading the book that you do, so...
But I do need more of this sunny, inclusive YA fantasy. I really do.
April 29, 2019
Charming, interesting, sweet. Loved the pacing, how things unfolded gently while still moving forward and including drama & excitement. Loved the matter-of-fact exploration of Darren's being trans, and explanations of magic (felt very natural to the story, not didactic). And I loved the care everyone took with each other. Would love to read more about these characters.
February 22, 2019
3.5 stars
June 28, 2019
So much cuter than I thought it would be!
July 17, 2019
Do you know how much sitting down with a book and not being able to put it down?
June 15, 2021
Fun, fluffy , but utterly plotless.
November 26, 2023
Sweet, quick read!
December 11, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
The blurb of Showers, Flowers and Fangs sounded extremely promising and I had quite high expectations. And I’m happy to say the author certainly didn’t disappoint.
I loved the world this book is set in. There are all the supernatural creatures you’ve ever heard of – and more. They live peacefully with the humans and half-breeds are far from unusual. That’s not a concept I’ve come across before. Darren got a bit unlucky with his abilities. He’s trans, but human medicine doesn’t agree with him and his fae powers aren’t all that strong either. So while he can pass with the help of a glamour, actual transitioning isn’t going to happen quite so easily. The author obviously put a lot of thought into their universe and how the rules affect the MCs. The world building was really well done and flowed naturally into the plot.
Darren and Vlad were adorable together. This is very much a coming-of-age story about the first experiences with romance, which are complicated by Vlad’s past. There are a few darker moments, but overall it was an absolutely heartwarming read, without it ever getting cheesy and overly fluffy. Just a feel-good story, with great depth and a bit of humour.
I liked both our MCs. Darren is extremely likable from the beginning and while it might take a while for Vlad to warm up, he’s still a wonderful person. Even though this is a Fantasy book, it just all felt very realistic to me.
We get quite a few surprising reveals and the book was very addicting. It was a super fast read and I enjoyed every single second of it. It’s quirky, unique and absolutely adorable. It’s also suitable for younger readers. I’d probably recommend this to kids aged 13 and above. Of course it also works for adults, like me. I hope there’ll be more books set in this wonderfully imaginative universe.
The cover by Tiferet Design is very pretty. It reminds me of a fairy tale and I love the blue background.
The blurb of Showers, Flowers and Fangs sounded extremely promising and I had quite high expectations. And I’m happy to say the author certainly didn’t disappoint.
I loved the world this book is set in. There are all the supernatural creatures you’ve ever heard of – and more. They live peacefully with the humans and half-breeds are far from unusual. That’s not a concept I’ve come across before. Darren got a bit unlucky with his abilities. He’s trans, but human medicine doesn’t agree with him and his fae powers aren’t all that strong either. So while he can pass with the help of a glamour, actual transitioning isn’t going to happen quite so easily. The author obviously put a lot of thought into their universe and how the rules affect the MCs. The world building was really well done and flowed naturally into the plot.
Darren and Vlad were adorable together. This is very much a coming-of-age story about the first experiences with romance, which are complicated by Vlad’s past. There are a few darker moments, but overall it was an absolutely heartwarming read, without it ever getting cheesy and overly fluffy. Just a feel-good story, with great depth and a bit of humour.
I liked both our MCs. Darren is extremely likable from the beginning and while it might take a while for Vlad to warm up, he’s still a wonderful person. Even though this is a Fantasy book, it just all felt very realistic to me.
We get quite a few surprising reveals and the book was very addicting. It was a super fast read and I enjoyed every single second of it. It’s quirky, unique and absolutely adorable. It’s also suitable for younger readers. I’d probably recommend this to kids aged 13 and above. Of course it also works for adults, like me. I hope there’ll be more books set in this wonderfully imaginative universe.
The cover by Tiferet Design is very pretty. It reminds me of a fairy tale and I love the blue background.
December 13, 2018
Full RTC
Ah, this adorable book was such a great read and I dearly enjoyed the conversations Vlad and Darren had. These guys are hilarious. Over the book we see how they become friends and how this turns into something more.
Granted this is a YA nobody should expect heavy actions but we have these adorable kisses and acting, especially Vlad is such a charmer. 😊
The book has a good dose of action and suspense, the pacing is great and I loved the world building.
It's honestly a shame to say goodbye to these adorable guys yet, they have their HFN but I'd love to see them again some day. 💗😊
5 out of 5 stars 💗
Ah, this adorable book was such a great read and I dearly enjoyed the conversations Vlad and Darren had. These guys are hilarious. Over the book we see how they become friends and how this turns into something more.
Granted this is a YA nobody should expect heavy actions but we have these adorable kisses and acting, especially Vlad is such a charmer. 😊
The book has a good dose of action and suspense, the pacing is great and I loved the world building.
It's honestly a shame to say goodbye to these adorable guys yet, they have their HFN but I'd love to see them again some day. 💗😊
5 out of 5 stars 💗
September 13, 2019
**Warning: this text may contain spoilers** Flowers, Showers, and Fangs is the exact type of Queer books we need. Rather than being about characters who are queer, the book is about queer characters dealing with external problems like relationships and evil vampires. Darren and Vlad have great interactions from the start, and the author does a great job of weaving real life and fantasy together.
December 12, 2018
Sweet, fun, unique magical world.
Fluffy lovely world, delightful characters and good details to this universe. Very kid and teen friendly, light (SPOILER) friends-into-boyfriends plot thread, satisfying resolution.
Fluffy lovely world, delightful characters and good details to this universe. Very kid and teen friendly, light (SPOILER) friends-into-boyfriends plot thread, satisfying resolution.
January 8, 2019
This was such a fun, funny, crazy, perfectly realistic young adult book about teens coming into their own. Teens who just so happen to be half fae-half human, or vampire, or witch, or werewolf....you get the idea. Yet even with the entire town being mixed in with supernaturals I don't know if I've ever read something that felt so truly real about going through high school and the changes and the friends and the romances. It was so good!
Darren (our half human-half fae) and Vlad (our vampire) meet under the worst circumstances. Darren is trans but can glamour himself to look male even though he isn't old enough to have surgery yet. However, glamour doesn't stop the body processes so that means periods are a perfectly annoyingly regular monthly event for this guy. Vlad happens to be newly living with the one person who has the herbs that can help Darren through his time of the month so the two of them do not exactly hit it off. In fact there are insults, anger, confusion, and general teen snarkiness and misunderstandings. It is fantastic and they are definitely not friends. Which makes it so wonderful that the book then proceeds to truly make them close friends.
By the time the book is half way through it is hard to remember Vlad and Darren ever not being friends. they work so well, a great compliment to each other, and it is obvious after the first two encounters that the two will continue to be close friends. There was just the right amount of teenage figuring things out, but the wonderful joy of making a new friend and then showing them new things (new town and new species in this case) shines through in all they do. They have the best conversations which could honestly make up a whole book- and they sort of did, this book here. Being teenagers means that the two of them still have the whole figuring out what to do in life and trying to pass school thing, all mixed in with going through supernatural puberty. It is funny and sweet and made for compulsively good reading.
There is a surprising and very well written climax when a particular incident comes to head. It was both expected and unexpected and it made for such an amazing ending to how this whole book went. There was an excellent balance of the teenagers knowing when there were things they had to do themselves and when they wanted and needed the help of adults. They are still kids after all. There was also a good chunk of having conversations and figuring things out in a very stressful and changing time. It was a fun and beautiful book that I would totally recommend!
Darren (our half human-half fae) and Vlad (our vampire) meet under the worst circumstances. Darren is trans but can glamour himself to look male even though he isn't old enough to have surgery yet. However, glamour doesn't stop the body processes so that means periods are a perfectly annoyingly regular monthly event for this guy. Vlad happens to be newly living with the one person who has the herbs that can help Darren through his time of the month so the two of them do not exactly hit it off. In fact there are insults, anger, confusion, and general teen snarkiness and misunderstandings. It is fantastic and they are definitely not friends. Which makes it so wonderful that the book then proceeds to truly make them close friends.
By the time the book is half way through it is hard to remember Vlad and Darren ever not being friends. they work so well, a great compliment to each other, and it is obvious after the first two encounters that the two will continue to be close friends. There was just the right amount of teenage figuring things out, but the wonderful joy of making a new friend and then showing them new things (new town and new species in this case) shines through in all they do. They have the best conversations which could honestly make up a whole book- and they sort of did, this book here. Being teenagers means that the two of them still have the whole figuring out what to do in life and trying to pass school thing, all mixed in with going through supernatural puberty. It is funny and sweet and made for compulsively good reading.
There is a surprising and very well written climax when a particular incident comes to head. It was both expected and unexpected and it made for such an amazing ending to how this whole book went. There was an excellent balance of the teenagers knowing when there were things they had to do themselves and when they wanted and needed the help of adults. They are still kids after all. There was also a good chunk of having conversations and figuring things out in a very stressful and changing time. It was a fun and beautiful book that I would totally recommend!
January 26, 2021
This novel is certainly not any great work of literary art, but it is a fascinating read. Darren is a 17-year-old fae transman who likes hanging with his friends Tabitha and Trisha both of whom are witches and Bethany who is a werewolf. All of them except Tabitha go to a high school that is for everybody, both human and every other kind of magical being that lives in their town.
Suddenly, Tabitha's cousin, Vlad came to town and is staying at her house. Darren who is on his period having not fully transitioned has to go to Tabitha's house for some herbal medication because human medicine doesn't actually that well with the fae body chemistry and he meets Vlad and the story changes vastly.
Perhaps the best part of the book is the hope and acceptance that the parents of all of these young people exhibit. Nobody has been thrown out of the house or ostracized for who they are. Would that people in the real world be all that wonderful!! So all that Darren and the others had to worry about was the day to day adventures and mishaps of the outside world.
Yes, it turns into a love affair between a vampire and a trans man fae but along the way, there are adventures and mishaps. It is simple, easy to understand and read and I would suggest it for anybody in the LGBTQ young population, especially trans.
Suddenly, Tabitha's cousin, Vlad came to town and is staying at her house. Darren who is on his period having not fully transitioned has to go to Tabitha's house for some herbal medication because human medicine doesn't actually that well with the fae body chemistry and he meets Vlad and the story changes vastly.
Perhaps the best part of the book is the hope and acceptance that the parents of all of these young people exhibit. Nobody has been thrown out of the house or ostracized for who they are. Would that people in the real world be all that wonderful!! So all that Darren and the others had to worry about was the day to day adventures and mishaps of the outside world.
Yes, it turns into a love affair between a vampire and a trans man fae but along the way, there are adventures and mishaps. It is simple, easy to understand and read and I would suggest it for anybody in the LGBTQ young population, especially trans.
March 10, 2019
I'll be honest, this book exceeded any of my expectations. I picked it up expecting a light hearted teen paranormal romance and in so many ways that's exactly what I got. But don't be fooled by the tropey plot described on the back of this book! Aidan Wayne has clearly put so much thought and care into the design of their characters and world, there was just enough world building to keep me in the story without distracting from their goal which was a character driven romance. Finally I absolutely LOVED the way Darren was written. As a trans man myself I've read far too many stories that promise trans characters and deliver caricatures, those writers often mean well but fail to capture the nuance of what it is like to live as an out trans person, Aidan Wayne knocks it out of the park. Despite the fact that Darren and I have very little in common as far as circumstances and interests I found myself relating to and empathizing with him on a level I'd never connected with a character on before. I think it really speaks to Wayne's talent when it comes to writing believable characters. My advice? Don't go into this book expecting anything more than your standard light teen romance read. This book sets out to deliver just that and does so perfectly.
March 13, 2020
Some books just have all the elements I love to see when diving into a story, and ‘Showers, Flowers, and Fangs’ checked all the boxes for me. The worldbuilding is excellent with a mix of supernatural species set in a unique world with its own history and rules that added a sense of mystery and enabled me to discover its secrets as events unfolded. The main character, Darren, is trans, half human and half fae, but his special power only emerges slowly and the reveal is very well done. The plot focuses on Darren discovering the truth about vampires, dealing with challenges in school, and figuring out his mysterious powers. There is the threat of Vlad's "mother", but it bubbles along in the background while Darren and Vlad deal with the rest of their problems – until everything comes to head and there is an epic confrontation, a fight, a retreat, and another battle. I found it very engaging and was almost unable to put the book down for much-needed breaks. It’s one of the best YA books I have ever read.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
December 27, 2019
This was endlessly endearing, I loved it. 🙌
My only wish is that it were longer! I adored following Darren and Vlad’s story and watching them tackle their issues as they came. I really appreciated the dialogue about PTSD and that it is normal to seek help after abuse like what Vlad went through. There is no shame in not being okay. The sheer amount of representation in this story was fantastic as well and the variety of sexualities and genders portrayed was fun to see.
I really enjoy stories like this that mix different paranormal/supernatural/mythical people types in one society. It’s more akin to how I imagine the world would be if supernatural entities did exist - over time, cohesion and communities would develop! The town Darren lives in and Vlad moves into sounds like a fun place to be. I’d honestly read more books about any of the characters (main or side ones!) because they were all so cool.
This story is a cute, quick read that tackles a surprising amount of deep topics within it’s finite page amount. I’ll definitely be keeping my eyes out for more of Wayne’s work!
My only wish is that it were longer! I adored following Darren and Vlad’s story and watching them tackle their issues as they came. I really appreciated the dialogue about PTSD and that it is normal to seek help after abuse like what Vlad went through. There is no shame in not being okay. The sheer amount of representation in this story was fantastic as well and the variety of sexualities and genders portrayed was fun to see.
I really enjoy stories like this that mix different paranormal/supernatural/mythical people types in one society. It’s more akin to how I imagine the world would be if supernatural entities did exist - over time, cohesion and communities would develop! The town Darren lives in and Vlad moves into sounds like a fun place to be. I’d honestly read more books about any of the characters (main or side ones!) because they were all so cool.
This story is a cute, quick read that tackles a surprising amount of deep topics within it’s finite page amount. I’ll definitely be keeping my eyes out for more of Wayne’s work!
May 23, 2021
Seria um 2/5, mas o sistema não facilita.
Quase um "livros ruins que são bons", mas falha.
Até hoje não sei bem explicar como cheguei até Showers, Flowers and Fangs. O livro é sobre um menino trans fada que conhece um vampiro refugiado. O plot queer mais inesperado da sua TL hoje, imagino. Entretanto, apesar de transitar por questões de identidade/expressão de gênero com certa naturalidade e cuidado, o livro tem os mesmos problemas de qualquer romance jovem conservador. Adolescentes de 17 anos são absurdamente infantis, castos e inseguros com absolutamente tudo. A trama explora uma narrativa fantástica interessante, mas que não ganha desenhos profundos ou detalhados, de modo que o universo que vai se desenvolvendo ao longo das páginas não nos cativa tanto quanto a história central: um romance entre dois meninos. O romance é extremamente fofo e rendeu partes ótimas, apesar dos pontos que já mencionei. Até uns 70% do livro, estava tendendo a dar três estrelas, pois com todos os defeitos, o livro trouxe um casalzinho muito amorzinho. Mas o romance logo perde lugar pra soluções apressadas e um final muito clichê. Uma pena. Enfim, queria muito ter gostado de Showers, Flowers and Fangs, mas não rolou. Apesar de seus momentos delicinha, é algo que realmente decepciona no final das contas.
Quase um "livros ruins que são bons", mas falha.
Até hoje não sei bem explicar como cheguei até Showers, Flowers and Fangs. O livro é sobre um menino trans fada que conhece um vampiro refugiado. O plot queer mais inesperado da sua TL hoje, imagino. Entretanto, apesar de transitar por questões de identidade/expressão de gênero com certa naturalidade e cuidado, o livro tem os mesmos problemas de qualquer romance jovem conservador. Adolescentes de 17 anos são absurdamente infantis, castos e inseguros com absolutamente tudo. A trama explora uma narrativa fantástica interessante, mas que não ganha desenhos profundos ou detalhados, de modo que o universo que vai se desenvolvendo ao longo das páginas não nos cativa tanto quanto a história central: um romance entre dois meninos. O romance é extremamente fofo e rendeu partes ótimas, apesar dos pontos que já mencionei. Até uns 70% do livro, estava tendendo a dar três estrelas, pois com todos os defeitos, o livro trouxe um casalzinho muito amorzinho. Mas o romance logo perde lugar pra soluções apressadas e um final muito clichê. Uma pena. Enfim, queria muito ter gostado de Showers, Flowers and Fangs, mas não rolou. Apesar de seus momentos delicinha, é algo que realmente decepciona no final das contas.
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