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Second Chances #1
Home Again
At 10 years old Joel was uprooted from his home and everything he knew in Portugal to start a new life in the States. At 26 he finds himself returning for the first time in thirteen years. So what if looking into the eyes of his childhood best friend again still makes his heart race out of his chest?
Living in sunny, laid-back Portugal isn't all it's cracked up to be. For David, dreams of being a pastry chef come second to working in his family's café where his renowned custard tarts draw in the crowds. Seeing Joel brings old feelings back. Feelings he’s not sure he’s brave enough to acknowledge to anyone other than himself.
With the inspiration of an old travel journal, the two friends embark on a real journey through memories in a country where looking back into the past runs as deep as the blood that courses through their veins.
Falling in love was never meant to be a stop along the way, but maybe inevitable when you have the adventurous spirit and courage to pursue what you want, make love under the stars and even figure out how to jumpstart an old Citroen 2CV in the middle of the Alentejo countryside.
Made In Portugal is a 74000 word gay romance novel with a happy ever after ending.
It is the first in a series but can be read as a standalone.
Living in sunny, laid-back Portugal isn't all it's cracked up to be. For David, dreams of being a pastry chef come second to working in his family's café where his renowned custard tarts draw in the crowds. Seeing Joel brings old feelings back. Feelings he’s not sure he’s brave enough to acknowledge to anyone other than himself.
With the inspiration of an old travel journal, the two friends embark on a real journey through memories in a country where looking back into the past runs as deep as the blood that courses through their veins.
Falling in love was never meant to be a stop along the way, but maybe inevitable when you have the adventurous spirit and courage to pursue what you want, make love under the stars and even figure out how to jumpstart an old Citroen 2CV in the middle of the Alentejo countryside.
Made In Portugal is a 74000 word gay romance novel with a happy ever after ending.
It is the first in a series but can be read as a standalone.
318 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2018
206 people are currently reading
423 people want to read
About the author
Ana Newfolk
8 books43 followersAna Newfolk was born in Portugal but has lived in the United Kingdom for so long, even her friends sometimes doubt if she really is Portuguese.
After getting hooked on reading gay romance, Ana decided to follow her lifelong dream of becoming an author.
These days you can find her in front of her laptop bringing her stories to life, or in the kitchen perfecting her recipe for the famous Portuguese custard
After getting hooked on reading gay romance, Ana decided to follow her lifelong dream of becoming an author.
These days you can find her in front of her laptop bringing her stories to life, or in the kitchen perfecting her recipe for the famous Portuguese custard
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
June 3, 2018
3.5*
This is another new to me author and another book where I've been thoroughly entertained by a well crafted story.
There is very much a sense of place with this one, the culture and heat of Portugal forming a major part of the narrative throughout and helping to anchor the lifelong friendship between Joel and David.
At the heart of this is a story about family and about belonging, to both a place and a person. When Joel returns to his childhood home, his memories of David are at the forefront.
Their friendship is rekindled and it becomes clear quickly there's deeper feelings. I got a lot of demisexual vibes from both characters but especially from David, and there is a strong sense of the emotional connection between them.
That's not to say they don't fumble their way into a sexual one too, they do and it gets hotter and hotter as they become more comfortable with their feelings.
Of course, it can't always be plain sailing and I must admit, the plot does seem to get a bit frantic and somewhat convoluted at the 70% mark with lots of disparate elements all fighting for space.
But it's eventually sorted out and everything comes together into a lovely ending and a very sweet epilogue.
#ARC kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
This is another new to me author and another book where I've been thoroughly entertained by a well crafted story.
There is very much a sense of place with this one, the culture and heat of Portugal forming a major part of the narrative throughout and helping to anchor the lifelong friendship between Joel and David.
At the heart of this is a story about family and about belonging, to both a place and a person. When Joel returns to his childhood home, his memories of David are at the forefront.
Their friendship is rekindled and it becomes clear quickly there's deeper feelings. I got a lot of demisexual vibes from both characters but especially from David, and there is a strong sense of the emotional connection between them.
That's not to say they don't fumble their way into a sexual one too, they do and it gets hotter and hotter as they become more comfortable with their feelings.
Of course, it can't always be plain sailing and I must admit, the plot does seem to get a bit frantic and somewhat convoluted at the 70% mark with lots of disparate elements all fighting for space.
But it's eventually sorted out and everything comes together into a lovely ending and a very sweet epilogue.
#ARC kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
June 14, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
I’ll admit, I was surprised by this book. In my mind, I started this book thinking it would be this sweet and tender goody-goody kind of story. The first few chapters do read kind of saccharine sweet, laced with a fair share of melancholy. In New York, Joel’s family basically adopts a friend/neighbor who gets kicked out of his house for being gay. Joel and David’s moms are besties and have a cutesy journal they kept together. David and Joel are buddy-buddy and it’s like instalove when they see each other after Joel comes back to scatter his parents’ ashes. It wasn’t that I didn’t expect to be treated to Joel and David being intimate with each other, but the fact that they basically shag like rabbits every night of their days-long road trip that caught me by surprise.
This would be a great beach read, not just because the Portuguese beach figures so prominently in it. There is also a strong sense of nostalgia for me because the characters themselves relive some of their childhood memories, and we have little snippets of their youthful beach days on summer vacation. I enjoyed having their childhood relationship established, then watching them dance around their mutual, but undeclared, attraction.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
I’ll admit, I was surprised by this book. In my mind, I started this book thinking it would be this sweet and tender goody-goody kind of story. The first few chapters do read kind of saccharine sweet, laced with a fair share of melancholy. In New York, Joel’s family basically adopts a friend/neighbor who gets kicked out of his house for being gay. Joel and David’s moms are besties and have a cutesy journal they kept together. David and Joel are buddy-buddy and it’s like instalove when they see each other after Joel comes back to scatter his parents’ ashes. It wasn’t that I didn’t expect to be treated to Joel and David being intimate with each other, but the fact that they basically shag like rabbits every night of their days-long road trip that caught me by surprise.
This would be a great beach read, not just because the Portuguese beach figures so prominently in it. There is also a strong sense of nostalgia for me because the characters themselves relive some of their childhood memories, and we have little snippets of their youthful beach days on summer vacation. I enjoyed having their childhood relationship established, then watching them dance around their mutual, but undeclared, attraction.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
April 12, 2021
I love Ana Ashley’s Chester Falls books, but this book just didn’t quite live up to my expectations. Half the time reading it I felt like it wasn’t a novel, but a travel book on Portugal.
I had a hard time connecting with the main characters. David and Joel finally had a real connection as boyfriends when they were 14 and yet Joel stayed away for 12 years even though his mother visited Portugal. He never even visited his grandparents once. That kind of behavior doesn’t endear me to a character. I also didn’t buy how upset he became in the nightclub. Joel overreacted and their breakup seemed like a convenient plot twist instead of how a real person would react.
I’m not sure I want to read about Max and Issac, I think I’ll wait for the next Chester Falls book.
I had a hard time connecting with the main characters. David and Joel finally had a real connection as boyfriends when they were 14 and yet Joel stayed away for 12 years even though his mother visited Portugal. He never even visited his grandparents once. That kind of behavior doesn’t endear me to a character. I also didn’t buy how upset he became in the nightclub. Joel overreacted and their breakup seemed like a convenient plot twist instead of how a real person would react.
I’m not sure I want to read about Max and Issac, I think I’ll wait for the next Chester Falls book.
June 4, 2018
This is the debut book of a new writer, Ana Newfolk.
It tells us the story of two childhood friends who split up after a kiss swapped on the beach. David stays in Portugal, and Joel leaves with his parents to the United States. The two men meet again when Joel returns to the country of origin to visit the family. The spark that brought them together in adolescence seems to return when they read an old diary from their mothers, who were childhood friends.
They embark on a journey through the home country of both young men, a journey where anything can happen. A fantastic book that makes us travel along with Joel and David, and makes us wonder what wonders lies in this European country stuck between Spain and the Atlantic Sea.
ARC provided for honest feedback
It tells us the story of two childhood friends who split up after a kiss swapped on the beach. David stays in Portugal, and Joel leaves with his parents to the United States. The two men meet again when Joel returns to the country of origin to visit the family. The spark that brought them together in adolescence seems to return when they read an old diary from their mothers, who were childhood friends.
They embark on a journey through the home country of both young men, a journey where anything can happen. A fantastic book that makes us travel along with Joel and David, and makes us wonder what wonders lies in this European country stuck between Spain and the Atlantic Sea.
ARC provided for honest feedback
June 7, 2018
3.5 stars - I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is a difficult review to write because I’m so conflicted about this book. Simply put - I loved the story but hated the writing.
Joel and David’s story is a sweet, sometimes sad second chance romance I enjoyed the characters and the beautiful Portuguese setting. There are some beautiful and quite tender scenes between Joel and David, both as boys and as adults. It is a thoughtful and reflective romance and at times it is almost a late coming of age story as David comes to terms with his sexuality and Joel tries to find his place between the two cultures he straddles.
But while I was fully engaged with the romance, the constant tense and grammar issues did my head in. I kept getting stuck on passages that didn’t quite scan - and then I would become completely distracted from the story while I tried to figure out why the phrase, sentence or paragraph didn’t work.
I really don’t want to judge this gentle romance too harshly. There are qualifiers to my reaction. The first is that I read an advanced pre publication copy of the book and I hope that errors will be caught before publication. The second is that I know many readers are able to skim through awkward writing and enjoy stories without picking them apart like I tend to do.
This is a difficult review to write because I’m so conflicted about this book. Simply put - I loved the story but hated the writing.
Joel and David’s story is a sweet, sometimes sad second chance romance I enjoyed the characters and the beautiful Portuguese setting. There are some beautiful and quite tender scenes between Joel and David, both as boys and as adults. It is a thoughtful and reflective romance and at times it is almost a late coming of age story as David comes to terms with his sexuality and Joel tries to find his place between the two cultures he straddles.
But while I was fully engaged with the romance, the constant tense and grammar issues did my head in. I kept getting stuck on passages that didn’t quite scan - and then I would become completely distracted from the story while I tried to figure out why the phrase, sentence or paragraph didn’t work.
I really don’t want to judge this gentle romance too harshly. There are qualifiers to my reaction. The first is that I read an advanced pre publication copy of the book and I hope that errors will be caught before publication. The second is that I know many readers are able to skim through awkward writing and enjoy stories without picking them apart like I tend to do.
July 6, 2018
Well done Ms Newfolk! I enjoyed the way this book read. It seems that English may not be the author's native language as things were worded oddly and that is what gave this story its charm. Very low on angst and believable characters traveling in a picturesque country round out this sweet romance perfectly. It is wordy at times but I'm not sure that a better editor would have helped or hurt the flow. Very enjoyable.
August 1, 2018
This story was really touching, romantic, and emotion provoking. Joel and David were childhood best friends who got separated by a move. Neither has forgotten the other, but finally 13 years later they are reunited. Unfortunately it was because Joel's parents died, but the best friends being reunited started the path to healing.
I thought the story was really intriguing. Joel and David's mothers were best friends and created a travel journal, so the guys set out to use their journal as a guide to follow. They become very close right away, and despite not being out, David falls head over heels in love with Joel. There are some bumps for the guys, but the family and friends in the book were lovely. I had genuine tears as I read about their mothers, and thought it was all beautifully written. The imagery and description of Portugal made me feel like I was there and now I really want to go. Very beautiful all around.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
I thought the story was really intriguing. Joel and David's mothers were best friends and created a travel journal, so the guys set out to use their journal as a guide to follow. They become very close right away, and despite not being out, David falls head over heels in love with Joel. There are some bumps for the guys, but the family and friends in the book were lovely. I had genuine tears as I read about their mothers, and thought it was all beautifully written. The imagery and description of Portugal made me feel like I was there and now I really want to go. Very beautiful all around.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
January 8, 2019
So I love this book for a few reasons. One, I was really good. You could almost feel yourself on those sunny beaches or traveling all over the countryside. And two, it was published on my birthday. So that makes it extra special. Lol im just teasing. Well, it was my birthday...oh you know what I mean. They only problem I had with this book is that there were quite a few grammatical errors. Punctuation and wrong names in wrong places kind of thing. Other than that, I really liked it.
I have to admit, I read so much that sometimes I skim descriptions of buildings and such. Not always, so no one panic. But I was really engaged with the surrounding areas in this book. The descriptions, where they were, it's just like being there yourself. Whether in the little chapel they visited, or the motels/in some they went to, to the beaches and feeling the sun on your face. I was totally engrossed in this country. I love the history of other countries so this hit for me.
I also loved the connections. Whether it be between the MCs moms and the families or the MCs themselves and their friends. There is an intimacy of different kinds with each one. Even though some intimacies were brought together by bad situations. The bonds were still there.
Joel and David from the time they were kids were each other's halves. As kids they didn't really understand what they were feeling, but they knew they were different. They didn't feel the way other kids did. And their bond was unbreakable. But circumstances caused them to be separated. David remaining in Portugal, Joel in New York. David feared for years Joel would never return and in some ways was very lost without him. So when Joel returned 13 years later, after the death of his parents, David felt home return. So did Joel. But Joel is out, and David is not. And fear of past events is keeping him from coming out. But fear of losing Joel makes things come to a head and decisions have to be made.
I love that even though Joel returned for a wake for his parents, the reconnection with David was instant. But what made it better is when the found an old journal and an old car belonging to their moms. The retraced their steps and let their relationship blossom. It was so sweet. Even the chemistry. Yeah it was hot, but there was suggested a sweetness to it. It was beautiful. These guys were bonded over so many things and now they had more. It just further cemented the relationship they had.
It's a sweet book. It really is. You get to follow these guys on a journey of reunions, reconnecting, regrowth and much more. Not to say that it comes easy. No relationship does. But it's just so much. I think you guys will like it.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
I have to admit, I read so much that sometimes I skim descriptions of buildings and such. Not always, so no one panic. But I was really engaged with the surrounding areas in this book. The descriptions, where they were, it's just like being there yourself. Whether in the little chapel they visited, or the motels/in some they went to, to the beaches and feeling the sun on your face. I was totally engrossed in this country. I love the history of other countries so this hit for me.
I also loved the connections. Whether it be between the MCs moms and the families or the MCs themselves and their friends. There is an intimacy of different kinds with each one. Even though some intimacies were brought together by bad situations. The bonds were still there.
Joel and David from the time they were kids were each other's halves. As kids they didn't really understand what they were feeling, but they knew they were different. They didn't feel the way other kids did. And their bond was unbreakable. But circumstances caused them to be separated. David remaining in Portugal, Joel in New York. David feared for years Joel would never return and in some ways was very lost without him. So when Joel returned 13 years later, after the death of his parents, David felt home return. So did Joel. But Joel is out, and David is not. And fear of past events is keeping him from coming out. But fear of losing Joel makes things come to a head and decisions have to be made.
I love that even though Joel returned for a wake for his parents, the reconnection with David was instant. But what made it better is when the found an old journal and an old car belonging to their moms. The retraced their steps and let their relationship blossom. It was so sweet. Even the chemistry. Yeah it was hot, but there was suggested a sweetness to it. It was beautiful. These guys were bonded over so many things and now they had more. It just further cemented the relationship they had.
It's a sweet book. It really is. You get to follow these guys on a journey of reunions, reconnecting, regrowth and much more. Not to say that it comes easy. No relationship does. But it's just so much. I think you guys will like it.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
June 12, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the first book in a series, and the debut novel of Ana Newfolk. Newfolk clearly has good instincts for plotting an engaging and romantic novel. There were times I was annoyed by the informality and structure of the writing, but I remained invested in the story.
I found the setting of the story in Portugal to be inspired, as it gave many of us an insight into new places and more particularly new foods. I was glad I wasn't on a diet when reading about all those delicious custard tarts! It was fun to learn a bit of basic Portuguese too. The inclusion of a 2CV (my first car age 18) was brilliant as far as I was concerned ... but I do take issue with them being able to recline the seats, I am convinced that they were set pretty much in one position.
I really liked the idea of the men following their mothers' journal, and I think that was a really good device to give them a chance to get close and remember what they held important as youngsters. Their slow, careful and genuine closeness gathered intensity as the journey progressed and they were amongst strangers. Obviously there had to be conflict, but thankfully it led to the ending that we all desired.
This is the first book in a series, and the debut novel of Ana Newfolk. Newfolk clearly has good instincts for plotting an engaging and romantic novel. There were times I was annoyed by the informality and structure of the writing, but I remained invested in the story.
I found the setting of the story in Portugal to be inspired, as it gave many of us an insight into new places and more particularly new foods. I was glad I wasn't on a diet when reading about all those delicious custard tarts! It was fun to learn a bit of basic Portuguese too. The inclusion of a 2CV (my first car age 18) was brilliant as far as I was concerned ... but I do take issue with them being able to recline the seats, I am convinced that they were set pretty much in one position.
I really liked the idea of the men following their mothers' journal, and I think that was a really good device to give them a chance to get close and remember what they held important as youngsters. Their slow, careful and genuine closeness gathered intensity as the journey progressed and they were amongst strangers. Obviously there had to be conflict, but thankfully it led to the ending that we all desired.
June 8, 2018
Have you ever read a love story that just sets your soul on fire? Well, that is what Made In Portugal did to me.
David and Joel were childhood friends that were separated by an ocean and many years but when Joel came back to Portugal to bury his parents they reconnected and friends became lovers.
Go for a journey with Joel and David and see a little bit of Portugal and fall in love all over again. A must read that will keep you hooked till the last page and still leaving you wanting more!
David and Joel were childhood friends that were separated by an ocean and many years but when Joel came back to Portugal to bury his parents they reconnected and friends became lovers.
Go for a journey with Joel and David and see a little bit of Portugal and fall in love all over again. A must read that will keep you hooked till the last page and still leaving you wanting more!
January 11, 2025
2.5 stars
Eh... way too sappy for me... and the whole romance was dull. The writing wasn't too memorable for me either. To be honest, I skipped pages to reach the end. Having said that, it did made me curious about Max and Isaac story, which would be the next book in this series.
Since I got all three when it was offered free on Amazon, I'd still probably check book #2
Eh... way too sappy for me... and the whole romance was dull. The writing wasn't too memorable for me either. To be honest, I skipped pages to reach the end. Having said that, it did made me curious about Max and Isaac story, which would be the next book in this series.
Since I got all three when it was offered free on Amazon, I'd still probably check book #2
June 7, 2018
3,5
Story about family, memories, trip to different country, travel journal, two men falling in love.
Sunny, summery, easy to read. I enjoyed it.
Book without heavy darkness or any weird stuff.
Perfect cover, because it was the first thing that caught my eye.
Story about family, memories, trip to different country, travel journal, two men falling in love.
Sunny, summery, easy to read. I enjoyed it.
Book without heavy darkness or any weird stuff.
Perfect cover, because it was the first thing that caught my eye.
December 28, 2020
Very watered down romance. I felt no passion or fire from either of the main characters. I liked the idea of the story far more than the story it's self.
January 3, 2022
Just eh. And a bit unfinished
April 30, 2021
First time reading this author.
Loved the friendship between David and Joel. It replicates the friendship of their mother's. Difference, they fell in love.
The writing really made you feel like you were watching a movie and hope there were no ads interrupting. I closed my eyes and enjoyed Portugal.
The only drawback was David not having enough confidence in his self to own his person.
Good read
Loved the friendship between David and Joel. It replicates the friendship of their mother's. Difference, they fell in love.
The writing really made you feel like you were watching a movie and hope there were no ads interrupting. I closed my eyes and enjoyed Portugal.
The only drawback was David not having enough confidence in his self to own his person.
Good read
July 15, 2018
Made in Portugal is a cute love story of two guys who grew up together and were childhood best friends, until they were on different continents. David, a Portuguese with a single mother, and Joel, half Portuguese, half American, were best friends but it is hard enough to keep up childhood friendships even when you go to different high schools, and so much harder to keep up when you only see each other for a few days each year.
So it is not surprising that David and Joel grew apart. When David lost his mother, he took over her café, or at least his aunt and uncle did until he grew up enough to do it himself. When his mother died, Joel’s mother and David’s mother’s best friend, came back to Portugal, but Joel didn’t.
Then the story picks up more than a decade later when Joel, due to some sad circumstances, returns home. He and David actually reconnect really quickly and they both seem to be really into each other but are convinced the other isn’t. What isn’t helping things is that David is firmly in the closet.
But their mothers have left behind a diary, and they decide to follow it and make a vacation out of it. On the road is where they really connect and seem to get at it A LOT. I mean, there’s really A LOT of sex scenes in the book.
As someone who doesn’t know Portugal/have never been there, I found the descriptions interesting and could imagine the setting a bit easier.
What bothered me a little was that sometimes the same event was described twice. It’s good to get some perspective from both characters but it was kind of…repetitive? And somewhere towards the end, everything really sped up and then in a few percent of pages, there was coming out, one major plot point, and more!
It is a nice and easy book to read, with a few sad themes but generally it is about reconnecting, about family, and … well, sex scenes. 😉
But it also has pastry! 🙂
So it is not surprising that David and Joel grew apart. When David lost his mother, he took over her café, or at least his aunt and uncle did until he grew up enough to do it himself. When his mother died, Joel’s mother and David’s mother’s best friend, came back to Portugal, but Joel didn’t.
Then the story picks up more than a decade later when Joel, due to some sad circumstances, returns home. He and David actually reconnect really quickly and they both seem to be really into each other but are convinced the other isn’t. What isn’t helping things is that David is firmly in the closet.
But their mothers have left behind a diary, and they decide to follow it and make a vacation out of it. On the road is where they really connect and seem to get at it A LOT. I mean, there’s really A LOT of sex scenes in the book.
As someone who doesn’t know Portugal/have never been there, I found the descriptions interesting and could imagine the setting a bit easier.
What bothered me a little was that sometimes the same event was described twice. It’s good to get some perspective from both characters but it was kind of…repetitive? And somewhere towards the end, everything really sped up and then in a few percent of pages, there was coming out, one major plot point, and more!
It is a nice and easy book to read, with a few sad themes but generally it is about reconnecting, about family, and … well, sex scenes. 😉
But it also has pastry! 🙂
Read
June 4, 2018“Made in Portugal” is a journey of two childhood friends finding their way back together. Put it that way it’s supposed to be a sweet story. A second chance romance of sort.
Unfortunately, the way everything revealed was rather monotonous with too much told and less shown. Also, the dual POVs between Joel and David didn’t compliment each other; in fact some part of those were repetition of same event [told from different voice, but telling the same detail].
The vast majority of the shown [in great detail] were Joel and David boinking each other like rabbits every chance they got. No fade to black scene for these two; once they decided to act on their attraction you can except lots of steamy scenes.
At least it’s the road trip going through their mothers’ memory lane was interesting. It might feel like a travelogue met teen diaries at times, but for someone never been to Portugal it’s an interesting account. The other drama stuff with the family might work fine with me if only it wasn’t being overblown so much.
Perhaps I’m just not cut out for overly dramatic story at the moment. And I’m new to the author’s writings too. Not a flattering combo really. But that’s just me. Others might feel differently. Who knows.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, the way everything revealed was rather monotonous with too much told and less shown. Also, the dual POVs between Joel and David didn’t compliment each other; in fact some part of those were repetition of same event [told from different voice, but telling the same detail].
The vast majority of the shown [in great detail] were Joel and David boinking each other like rabbits every chance they got. No fade to black scene for these two; once they decided to act on their attraction you can except lots of steamy scenes.
At least it’s the road trip going through their mothers’ memory lane was interesting. It might feel like a travelogue met teen diaries at times, but for someone never been to Portugal it’s an interesting account. The other drama stuff with the family might work fine with me if only it wasn’t being overblown so much.
Perhaps I’m just not cut out for overly dramatic story at the moment. And I’m new to the author’s writings too. Not a flattering combo really. But that’s just me. Others might feel differently. Who knows.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2020
This book is absolutely a great start. It is a great story, very well written, the charachters have a depth to them that many authors cannot achieve even after writing a series of books; and the road trip through Portugal's small towns just makes you want to get a car and follow them in their journey (i did so on Google Maps, not the same...).
David and Joel, best friends when they were kids, untill Joel moved to the US, sons of best friends, they share a bond which needs no time rekindling when they meet again as adults. The step from friends to lovers is very short, but living their love will take some adjustment for both of them.
I especially loved Joel, who is as supportive and accepting as can be, never forcing David, or rushing him to make decisions he's not ready for, instead standing by him as a rock solid presence of love and support.
I cannot wait to read more from this author!
David and Joel, best friends when they were kids, untill Joel moved to the US, sons of best friends, they share a bond which needs no time rekindling when they meet again as adults. The step from friends to lovers is very short, but living their love will take some adjustment for both of them.
I especially loved Joel, who is as supportive and accepting as can be, never forcing David, or rushing him to make decisions he's not ready for, instead standing by him as a rock solid presence of love and support.
I cannot wait to read more from this author!
April 26, 2020
5 stars! 5 stars! 5 stars!
Ana Ashley is quickly becoming one of my favorite author. I everything I have read by her so far is just simply right up my alley.
This book was previously published under the name "Made in Portugal" and under the pen name of Ana Newfolk. It got some light editing for the rerelease but I haven't read it before so I can't compare.
I loved Joel and David and this is a beautiful, beautiful story of coming home and second chances of friendship and love.
I won't go into the plot because I'm just going to keep talking and talking because that's how much I love it. I'll think of it for a long, long time.
Pick it up! You won't regret it.
I received an ARC from the author in a giveaway and am happy to leave my review.
Ana Ashley is quickly becoming one of my favorite author. I everything I have read by her so far is just simply right up my alley.
This book was previously published under the name "Made in Portugal" and under the pen name of Ana Newfolk. It got some light editing for the rerelease but I haven't read it before so I can't compare.
I loved Joel and David and this is a beautiful, beautiful story of coming home and second chances of friendship and love.
I won't go into the plot because I'm just going to keep talking and talking because that's how much I love it. I'll think of it for a long, long time.
Pick it up! You won't regret it.
I received an ARC from the author in a giveaway and am happy to leave my review.
April 24, 2020
Home Again is the first book in the Finding You series by Ana Ashley. Home Again was previously published under the title Made in Portugal and the pen name of Ana Newfolk. While the manuscript received a light edit, the story itself hasn’t changed.
Home Again is about Joel and David. Joel and David grew up together in Portugal. When they were 8 Joel moved to America with his parents but he came back every summer. But the last time he came back was when they were 14. 12 years later Joel is back to scatter his parents ashes.
I loved their story. It's so beautifully written. Can't wait for the next book.
Home Again is about Joel and David. Joel and David grew up together in Portugal. When they were 8 Joel moved to America with his parents but he came back every summer. But the last time he came back was when they were 14. 12 years later Joel is back to scatter his parents ashes.
I loved their story. It's so beautifully written. Can't wait for the next book.
April 27, 2020
loved this book. i can't explain how much i really enjoyed this story.
These two characters had been apart for so long but for them to have not only reconnected but to realize what started 13 years before was only the beginning of what would become an amazing future.
i can't wait to read more of the secondary characters in future books.
kudos for creating such a great read!!!
These two characters had been apart for so long but for them to have not only reconnected but to realize what started 13 years before was only the beginning of what would become an amazing future.
i can't wait to read more of the secondary characters in future books.
kudos for creating such a great read!!!
April 27, 2020
loved this book. i can't explain how much i really enjoyed this story.
These two characters had been apart for so long but for them to have not only reconnected but to realize what started 13 years before was only the beginning of what would become an amazing future.
i can't wait to read more of the secondary characters in future books.
kudos for creating such a great read!!!
These two characters had been apart for so long but for them to have not only reconnected but to realize what started 13 years before was only the beginning of what would become an amazing future.
i can't wait to read more of the secondary characters in future books.
kudos for creating such a great read!!!
June 19, 2020
DNF 30% This book just wasn’t grabbing my attention. It felt every wordy in some parts and the characters felt a little underdeveloped. I’ve definitely read better works by this author
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August 15, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up
Ten years and thousands of miles separates David and Joel. But one road trip and a heartfelt confession bring them together in a way neither believed they could hope for. As they navigate past hurts, secrets, and a travel journal, they'll find more than just answers; they'll find a relationship that spans years and continents but was made and meant to be in Portugal.
The overall story was sweet and touching. Having their mothers be the very best of friends brought a closeness and cohesiveness to the story that I think would be sorely missed were that not the case. The dynamic between the two men was believable in the tension and passion.
Their relationship as lovers, though, made me want to celebrate and be disappointed in turns. I had a hard time with the coming-out issue. Not that he wanted to, but in Joel's flip-flopping. It's understandable fear that David has regarding his reveal of his true self when you look at what his uncle did to Isaac. After acknowledging that it's David's choice and accepting when or if he comes out, Joel's reaction after the club was more than a little disappointing. Especially when he can see the predatory and familiar man there that gets up in Joel's face. Reacting in hurt is one thing, but to run away right afterward and treat Joel as he did was cowardly and inconsistent. David was really trying and a few days of cautious openness isn't going to give him the confidence and courage to possibly lose his family. I just think Joel was more childish than necessary.
Throughout the story we're led along by a travel journal that David and Joel's mothers shared. There are quite a few unanswered questions about family members and other people mentioned in the mysterious journal. It was an element of reality that I'm not exactly looking for in a romance novel. While it's true that we don't always get the answers to our questions, I'm wondering why Joel's history was even brought up at all. It didn't add to the story or even enhance the plot. Though it introduced the impetus behind the uncle's vitriol and despicable behavior, it didn't do anything else for the story.
Other than that, I found Joel and David to be an ideal pairing. There was a support, a friend, a lover all wrapped up into the person that made you realize that true part of yourself. Not just a question of sexual identity, but who they wanted to be, where they came from, and what they wished for the future. There was a hopeful anticipation to what we read between these two men despite their many bumps in the road.
Ten years and thousands of miles separates David and Joel. But one road trip and a heartfelt confession bring them together in a way neither believed they could hope for. As they navigate past hurts, secrets, and a travel journal, they'll find more than just answers; they'll find a relationship that spans years and continents but was made and meant to be in Portugal.
The overall story was sweet and touching. Having their mothers be the very best of friends brought a closeness and cohesiveness to the story that I think would be sorely missed were that not the case. The dynamic between the two men was believable in the tension and passion.
Their relationship as lovers, though, made me want to celebrate and be disappointed in turns. I had a hard time with the coming-out issue. Not that he wanted to, but in Joel's flip-flopping. It's understandable fear that David has regarding his reveal of his true self when you look at what his uncle did to Isaac. After acknowledging that it's David's choice and accepting when or if he comes out, Joel's reaction after the club was more than a little disappointing. Especially when he can see the predatory and familiar man there that gets up in Joel's face. Reacting in hurt is one thing, but to run away right afterward and treat Joel as he did was cowardly and inconsistent. David was really trying and a few days of cautious openness isn't going to give him the confidence and courage to possibly lose his family. I just think Joel was more childish than necessary.
Throughout the story we're led along by a travel journal that David and Joel's mothers shared. There are quite a few unanswered questions about family members and other people mentioned in the mysterious journal. It was an element of reality that I'm not exactly looking for in a romance novel. While it's true that we don't always get the answers to our questions, I'm wondering why Joel's history was even brought up at all. It didn't add to the story or even enhance the plot. Though it introduced the impetus behind the uncle's vitriol and despicable behavior, it didn't do anything else for the story.
Other than that, I found Joel and David to be an ideal pairing. There was a support, a friend, a lover all wrapped up into the person that made you realize that true part of yourself. Not just a question of sexual identity, but who they wanted to be, where they came from, and what they wished for the future. There was a hopeful anticipation to what we read between these two men despite their many bumps in the road.
July 10, 2018
It's not everyday that I find a book like Made in Portugal that makes me want to tell everyone to read it right away! I am so damn impressed with this book by Ana Newfolk.
From the very beginning, I knew this book was going to be special.
Joel and David are everything you want in a M/M Romance. After growing up as best friends, they are reunited and what follows just warms the heart.
This book contains so much sentiment, so much romance, and an overabundance of love. The trip the two set out on is so damn wonderful, and when they are together physically, the chemistry is off the charts.
The overall journey for these two is so powerful. David had spent his life in the closet, fearing the repercussions if his aunt and uncle ever find out he's gay. His reasons for this are sound, but his constant public rejection of Joel is devastating.
The lessons in this tale are fantastic. There is a big difference between living with caution versus embracing your true self and fully living. Sometime you need to return home to find your true self, and it is ok to do so.
And one of the most special things about this book is that Ana manages to feature the deceased parents as some of the most important people in the story. She does so in a creative and emotional way that is astounding.
Want a romantic preview? '"I love you so much I'm not even sure how all the particles in my body remain in one place when you're not around."'
Made In Portugal is as romantic as it can get. Ana Newfolk has far exceeded any expectations I had going into this book, and I can't wait to see what she writes next!
From the very beginning, I knew this book was going to be special.
Joel and David are everything you want in a M/M Romance. After growing up as best friends, they are reunited and what follows just warms the heart.
This book contains so much sentiment, so much romance, and an overabundance of love. The trip the two set out on is so damn wonderful, and when they are together physically, the chemistry is off the charts.
The overall journey for these two is so powerful. David had spent his life in the closet, fearing the repercussions if his aunt and uncle ever find out he's gay. His reasons for this are sound, but his constant public rejection of Joel is devastating.
The lessons in this tale are fantastic. There is a big difference between living with caution versus embracing your true self and fully living. Sometime you need to return home to find your true self, and it is ok to do so.
And one of the most special things about this book is that Ana manages to feature the deceased parents as some of the most important people in the story. She does so in a creative and emotional way that is astounding.
Want a romantic preview? '"I love you so much I'm not even sure how all the particles in my body remain in one place when you're not around."'
Made In Portugal is as romantic as it can get. Ana Newfolk has far exceeded any expectations I had going into this book, and I can't wait to see what she writes next!
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September 17, 2021
These are the times I wish there were half star ratings. This book is a solid 3.5 and I hate only being allowed to give it 3 stars but it’s not a 4 star book no matter how much I hate just giving it 3 stars. This was a sweet friends to lovers story that picks up 12 years after their first kiss. Their friendship is one of a kind and special and even made me teary eyed at times. However, I felt that this book dragged in places and while they were on their road trip, I felt like there was a missed opportunity there for more. It read more like a travel book than a romance.
This story is about two friends who grew up together yet lost touch when one moved away being reconnected through loss and the discovery of a journal. This journal takes them on a road trip across Portugal and cements the fact they have always been more than just friends. Unfortunately the road to be together isn’t as simple as loving each other with one living in New York and the other not having come out.
This was such a sweet story. David and Joel were lovely and made me tear up for them multiple times yet something was missing for me to fully love this story. It was dual POV, had an interesting plot line but it just didn’t hook me the way I thought it would. Even the ending and epilogue were a bit strange. This book ends without the reader knowing how these two will be together, just that they will only to have an epilogue a year in the future that tells us what has happened in that time. It was all very rushed and while the epilogue showed us the future for them, I wanted more. This had a great set up for book 2 but I’m not quite sure I’m going to keep reading this series. 🤷🏻♀️ We’ll see.
This story is about two friends who grew up together yet lost touch when one moved away being reconnected through loss and the discovery of a journal. This journal takes them on a road trip across Portugal and cements the fact they have always been more than just friends. Unfortunately the road to be together isn’t as simple as loving each other with one living in New York and the other not having come out.
This was such a sweet story. David and Joel were lovely and made me tear up for them multiple times yet something was missing for me to fully love this story. It was dual POV, had an interesting plot line but it just didn’t hook me the way I thought it would. Even the ending and epilogue were a bit strange. This book ends without the reader knowing how these two will be together, just that they will only to have an epilogue a year in the future that tells us what has happened in that time. It was all very rushed and while the epilogue showed us the future for them, I wanted more. This had a great set up for book 2 but I’m not quite sure I’m going to keep reading this series. 🤷🏻♀️ We’ll see.
July 18, 2018
This book was a very enjoyable read. A surprisingly good debut novel by Ana Newfolk. She already had written a short story I liked very much, but this is her first full-length novel, and it is certainly worth reading. It had everything I look for in a romance. Well-crafted writing, believable characters, hot sex, humorous banter, and heartfelt moments.
David and Joel were best friends until they turned ten and Joel had to leave Portugal to return to the States with his parents. Their lives turned in opposite directions. Joel is out and proud; David has yet to acknowledge his sexuality. But meeting again after thirteen years, they know their feelings for each other have stayed the same.
I loved how the author took their mothers’ diary, and old Citroen DCV, called ladybug, as base for a road trip through Portugal. Joel and David visit the same places their mothers did. Following the winding routes in rural Portugal, they are getting closer and closer. It is David who has the most growing to do, and the author handles this with a gentle touch. Not ever pushing him beyond his boundaries but gradually letting him be himself without fear. Joel is a very understanding and caring man who lets David set the pace.
Not only Joel and David are memorable characters, the secondary cast is interesting as well. That doesn’t mean they are all loveable, but they are real. The vivid descriptions of the Portugal countryside had me yearning for a visit myself.
This is the first book in a series, and I am looking forward to reading the next book(s).
David and Joel were best friends until they turned ten and Joel had to leave Portugal to return to the States with his parents. Their lives turned in opposite directions. Joel is out and proud; David has yet to acknowledge his sexuality. But meeting again after thirteen years, they know their feelings for each other have stayed the same.
I loved how the author took their mothers’ diary, and old Citroen DCV, called ladybug, as base for a road trip through Portugal. Joel and David visit the same places their mothers did. Following the winding routes in rural Portugal, they are getting closer and closer. It is David who has the most growing to do, and the author handles this with a gentle touch. Not ever pushing him beyond his boundaries but gradually letting him be himself without fear. Joel is a very understanding and caring man who lets David set the pace.
Not only Joel and David are memorable characters, the secondary cast is interesting as well. That doesn’t mean they are all loveable, but they are real. The vivid descriptions of the Portugal countryside had me yearning for a visit myself.
This is the first book in a series, and I am looking forward to reading the next book(s).
June 21, 2018
Second chance, friends to lovers on holiday story, yes please! This is my first book by Ana Newfolk but it definitely won't be my last! I really enjoyed this story of finding a well deserved happily ever after for Joel and David! Two great guys who grew up as friends but end up countries apart who have always shared part of their heart and soul finally find their way back to each other.
I loved these two and their journey together, even in the rough moments. Joel and David were best friends in Portugal as children. Their mothers had been best friends as well and they carried it on together. That is until Joel moves to America and only sees David during the summer, until that ends as well. Years later these two come face to face again and David and Joel have to really be true about their feelings.
I thought this was a wonderful story, one that really makes you feel! These two are so close and yet there are gaps and they have to learn to fill those gaps. There is definitely love and passion but there's more to their story and even more they have to figure out if they stand a chance at being happy together. This is a story about family and friendship and love and I totally fell head over heels!
I loved these two and their journey together, even in the rough moments. Joel and David were best friends in Portugal as children. Their mothers had been best friends as well and they carried it on together. That is until Joel moves to America and only sees David during the summer, until that ends as well. Years later these two come face to face again and David and Joel have to really be true about their feelings.
I thought this was a wonderful story, one that really makes you feel! These two are so close and yet there are gaps and they have to learn to fill those gaps. There is definitely love and passion but there's more to their story and even more they have to figure out if they stand a chance at being happy together. This is a story about family and friendship and love and I totally fell head over heels!
July 22, 2018
Made In Portugal
I always enjoy reading new authors and this one didn't disappoint.
Joel left Portugal and his best friend David when his parents moved to New York returning every summer holiday and visiting the beach where they shared their first kiss and the last time they saw each other. Fast forward 13 years and Joel, who is out and proud, is heading back to Portugal to scatter his parents ashes and getting back to the rest of his family.
David a successful pastry chef runs the family business, left to him when his mother died. His aunt and uncle help him with the business and treat him like their own son. He is a firmly closeted man but with a good reason he could loose everything.
When they rekindle their friendship David shows Joel their mothers journal so they decide to follow the adventures, Even taking the old 2CV car! As their friendship blossoms into love will David come out to his family or will Joel go running back to New York!
This book is a sweet, romantic and heartbreaking but with the journal its like the deceased parents are with them all the way.
I am looking forward to more from Anna Newfolk and more of Max and Isaac.
I always enjoy reading new authors and this one didn't disappoint.
Joel left Portugal and his best friend David when his parents moved to New York returning every summer holiday and visiting the beach where they shared their first kiss and the last time they saw each other. Fast forward 13 years and Joel, who is out and proud, is heading back to Portugal to scatter his parents ashes and getting back to the rest of his family.
David a successful pastry chef runs the family business, left to him when his mother died. His aunt and uncle help him with the business and treat him like their own son. He is a firmly closeted man but with a good reason he could loose everything.
When they rekindle their friendship David shows Joel their mothers journal so they decide to follow the adventures, Even taking the old 2CV car! As their friendship blossoms into love will David come out to his family or will Joel go running back to New York!
This book is a sweet, romantic and heartbreaking but with the journal its like the deceased parents are with them all the way.
I am looking forward to more from Anna Newfolk and more of Max and Isaac.
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