Burn that Bridge

by J.R. Gray

Turns out trading a spot on the cheerleading squad for a fresh fade and all-new pronouns was more of a recipe for disaster than happiness. Coming out as trans in rural Alabama, where football rules and cheer is life, might have been the worst way to start my senior year.

There are no safety nets for people like me in places like this.

But sometimes, hope shows itself in the most unexpected places. New friends help us survive —and maybe— thrive. But falling for Sebastian was not part of the plan.

Embracing my identity put my happiness at odds with my safety. I’m terrified. Terrified to be me. Terrified to be happy. Terrified to love him.

Welcome to senior year.

Try to make it out alive.

Genres: Young Adult, M M Romance, Romance, Transgender, Contemporary, High School, LGBT

279 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 29, 2021

About the author

When not staying up all night writing, J.R. Gray can be found at the gym where it's half assumed he is a permanent resident to fulfill his self-inflicted masochism. A dominant and a pilot, Gray finds it hard to be in the passenger seat of any car. He frequently interrupts real life, including normal sleep patterns and conversations, to jot down notes or plot bunnies. Commas are the bane of his existence even though it's been fully acknowledged they are necessary, they continue to baffle and bewilder. If Gray wasn't writing…well, that's not possible. The buildup of untold stories would haunt Gray into an early grave, insanity or both. The idea of haunting has always appealed to him. J.R. Gray is genderqueer and prefers he/him pronouns.

Reviews

[Billie Bloom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow y’all. As a spouse of a transman, I have to say this book was AWESOME!!! Trans romance is a new genre for me, but the story was SO REAL as promised.

[Layla · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review....

This started so good. It really started with a bang.
- I liked:
Both characters...mostly
The rep of trans and gay characters
The relationship development
The supportive parents... no douchebags here thanks
The side characters


Niggles..
The dialogue... it was a bit too choregraphed at times, corny in other times.
The "malaphors" got tedious after a while.
Some character trait inconsistencies.

[A.M. Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited for this book! And JR Gray did not disappoint. Evocative and unique, filled with fun banter, and hard hitting emotion, this is a book you won't want to miss.

[Renae Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

*** I received an eArc from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.***

This was an extremely moving story about self-identity in a great coming of age story that I could not put down. I empathized greatly with the main character because of the complex and sensitive writing by the author. I was also amazed at how I was able to share in the anxiety of the main character due to the feeling of self-doubt.

I loved how the author effortless wrote the feelings and experiences of the main character. His journey is filled with inspiring moments of bravery and determination.

This was a wonderful novel about transitioning into adulthood and discovering your true self.

[Molly Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

Let's start off by simply saying this is hands down the best YA LBGTQA+ book I have ever had the privilege of reading. YA aside now, the best Trans coming of age story I have ever read. Masterfully written with all the emotions & feelings to make you feel as part of these characters lives.
My mind is seriously blown by this brilliantly written piece of work, and I know I won't forget it. Wow just wow.

[Kera’s Always Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

JR Gray is one of those authors that can totally pull you in and make you fall head over heels for his literary characters. I have read some of his adult romances but this YA novel was just... gahh!!! It was so good. Here is my SPOILER FREE review.

On the first day of school, Sebastian’s crush, Darcy comes into the room and everything goes quiet. His name is DJ, he is no longer the head cheerleader, and he is finally being himself. And Sebastian knows that he still feels the strong attraction and feelings for DJ that he felt for Darcy.

With DJ feeling like he has no friends and nowhere to belong at the moment, Sebastian pulls him into his group of friends and so begins the start of a great friendship between them. But Sebastian has no idea how to tell DJ how he feels about him or if the feelings would even be reciprocated...

Burn That Bridge was a beautiful and very emotional story about being true to ones self and discovering your identity. This isn’t just about a young trans boy, but about another boy discovering his own queer identity. It is about the loss that can occur in friendships when people are closed minded and bigoted. It is about fear and love and everything in between. I truly loved this book.

[K.R. Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, just wow.
Intense, heartfelt, honest, and poignant, this story is something special!

An intense and emotional story about what I can only imagine is the truthful hardships of being trans in a red state and rural town. The characters in this are so real and genuine.

I loved the malaphors and memes (although I will say they made me feel old as I may not have known what was what, so thanks for that Gray😜) but so witty and funny. The perfect counterbalance to some harsh realities...

Seb stole my heart! Sebastian keeps mentioning his mum's bleeding heart but I think he has one of the biggest most beautiful hearts of a character I've read. He is attentive and honest, endearing and thoughtful, observant, and caring. He is everything you want to believe is possible of people and he shares it all with DJ!

DJ is fierce! My heart broke for his situation and the darkness he felt not being able to be his true self. You can keep things bottled up and his bravery to come out in senior year was so honestly written you could feel every hateful word, every pain, and challenge. DJ is a fictional character but his truth is real for so many and it breaks my heart that parts of this book are a reality for some. We need to make the world a better place!!! #protecttransyouth

The journey these characters take is harrowing but steeped in truth, hardship, and personal growth. These two boys face more than their fair share of vile and in some cases violence. The tensions and anxiety was well addressed and there is no hiding the harsh reality DJ must face as he finally expresses his true self. Sebastian is a constant support for DJ and while many of the adults in this story fail these characters epically there are a few that go above and beyond. I really liked the homeroom teacher and his unwavering support in a sea of staff that are despicable human beings. This side character was a wonderful addition by the author and leaves feelings of hope and that one person really can make a difference. He shared his own truth to help a kid go through more than his share and I enjoyed his unwavering support throughout.

There are many themes in this book and I felt DJ's anxiety like a physical thing. He has a weight on his shoulders and the threat of violence is a shadow over him. I feel he is a very strong character to face what he does and while there are "usual" high school issues throughout they are more when it comes to DJ.

With all the characters we are introduced to I like the mini redemption arc of a few of the side characters and the ending support culminating in an epic moment of protection will hit you in the feels and is truly something special.

I truly loved this book and these characters have sunk in deep and will stay with me for a long time! This is something special!

[Scooby2 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is such an emotional read, I couldn’t put it down, I had to finish it. If you want a story of survival, accepting yourself, new friendships, and new love, then this is it. I was so glad to see DJ finally be able to be himself, even though it was difficult for him especially since he lived in rural Alabama, and not everyone was supportive. Everyone should be able to feel safe and welcome to be their true selves and not have to hide who they are.

I give this story 5 stars.

This review is based on an advanced copy received from the author.

[Frank Chillura (OhYouRead) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into Burn That Bridge not really knowing much about it. I knew that one of the MC’s was Trans and that the love interest was Cis Male, so that is what drew me in.

I always seem to be drawn to books with a Trans main character and recently I read another book with a similar idea and feel. Trans MC, Cheerleader (Ex-Cheerleader in this book) meets/falls in love with a Cis Male who was in love with him as a Female, but also loves him when he transitions. Is this a new trope? I will tell you that JR Gray did it so much better!

Sebastian and DJ were such an incredible couple. We knew from the beginning that they would end up together, so when they finally did, it was like it was written in the stars.

I also really enjoyed Smith. I’d love another book where he finds a forever love. Maybe that love is a man? Maybe that love is a woman? Maybe they aren’t of either binary!? Who knows! But he deserves love after all he went through!

The parents for both of these kids were so INCREDIBLY understanding and open. I loved them! They were really refreshing for parents of YA book characters.

Okay! So I liked the book. As you can tell. 😂🤷🏻‍♂️ There were a few things I wasn’t as fond of. The ending seemed a little tied up in a bow. How very Scooby Doo. “We’ll get you and your dog too!” “It was old man Tim all along!!” Also, Kim and Emery? I don’t know if I believe it. Is it not just a ploy for sympathy?

[Athira · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was beautiful and emotional and I couldn't put it down. It's a very well written YA dealing with coming out, falling in love and the amazing friendships that you form.

DJ and Sebastian are adorable together and I love how they easily communicate with each other. The development from friendship to love was slow and so beautiful. I also love that Sebastian already had feelings for DJ from the beginning, how he was so charmingly nervous.

I love the malaphors and the abundance of memes and my nerdy heart is always happy at the mention of anime! I also love how all the parents are incredibly supportive. And Smith was such a great friend to both Sebastian and DJ. My heart broke for DJ, for the things he went through to keep himself hidden away in a rural town with close minded people.

There are few things that are hard to read, mainly the transphobia but it's also very hopeful. Highly recommended!

TW: transphobia, misgendering, homophobia, self harm, bullying, violence

*ARC provided by the author via Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest and unbiased review

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4 stars

From the first page, it was easy to fall into the first-person point of view as DJ returns from summer break with his outside starting to match how he feels on the inside. Some may tell DJ it’s a brave and bold move, but DJ has no choice but to be his true self. But going from a cheerleader to changing his pronouns leaves him an easy target in a largely unsupportive, rural town. DJ was so caught up in his own head and his fear of coming out that he didn’t think he would have any support from his peers, and while he is mostly correct, he finds support where he needs it most.

There is enough tension to keep the story moving without becoming unbearable, especially for YA-aged readers, and the ending put DJ and Sebastian in a more comfortable place.

Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.

[Szidi ☼ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, shit. I have no words.

Beautiful story, well written and loveable characters, real and emotional scenes - perfection.

It's a new adult story, don't expect explicit erotica, it's a sweet and real story about coming out as trans in the last year of high school.

It was heartbreaking and so real. I felt every emotion, I was scared and happy and I just wanted to wrap them up in bubble-wrap. I loved everything about this book. It was everything and more.

Highly, highly recommend! I'm happy that I had the chance to read this story, there are books which stays you forever, this is one of them.

[Cariad Dussan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An entertaining, endearing, thought-provoking, and quietly stirring tale of love, acceptance, finding one's voice and one's inner truth. Told with a gentle strength and caring understanding of growing up queer and trans in America today.
A book that should be required reading in schools today.
Highly recommended.

[Marley Valentine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to Come

[Molly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have mixed feelings about this, which I’m bummed about, because I wanted to like it more than I did. But I’m rating in 3 stars (for now) simply for how much I loved DJ and Sebastian, their relationship, their supportive parents, and the trans rep. I have been wanting to read a trans story for awhile, and the blurb and reviews on this one caught my attention and peaked my interest. I really love reading about diverse, LGBTQIA+ characters and getting a sense of other’s experiences, perspectives, and stories. I really loved the beginning. It hooked me, and I stayed up super late reading. I couldn’t put it down. I adored DJ and Sebastian, and thought the trans rep and their relationship were so well done. There was so much care, understanding, and realism in it, which prompted me to have lots and lots of highlights👏🏻. Both MMCs were such great, lovable characters, especially sweet Sebastian. The world needs more Sebastians. Tbh people need to take note and be more like him😆. Compassionate, loyal, understanding, patient, willing to learn and listen, open minded, kind, supportive. I loved how he was with DJ and that they started out as friends. Their friendship and relationship development made me so happy. And seeing them happy, especially DJ, who had been through the wringer😭, also made me so happy.❤️ I also loved how supportive their parents were. As well as Smith and Mr. Heathens. Loved it. I love when books have loving, accepting, and supportive side characters like this.

Unfortunately, there were some things I struggled with and didn’t care for:

**Minor spoilers below. I swear I’m not hating on this book btw; these are mainly just some thoughts to serve as notes/reminders to myself.🙃**

Usually, I love fast-paced reads, because they keep my attention and things move along quickly. But, the pacing in this felt off to me. Like it was too fast at times. Also, some of the scene transitions were a little rushed/choppy and chapters felt like they ended abruptly or mid-scene. Usually, when this happens, I expect the next chapter in the other character’s POV to pick up where the last chapter ended, but that wasn’t always the case here, so it sometimes felt like paragraphs or pages were missing.

Also, the dialogue was sometimes hard to follow. Dialogue is my favorite. I love reading characters’ conversations and interactions, and I loved that this had a lot of dialogue and open communication🙌🏻. But there were several times where I was confused either by who was speaking, what was being said, and/or the wording. The banter was definitely there and fast-paced, but I wasn’t always sure who was saying what, and I found myself having to go back and reread at times to try and figure it out and make sense of it. Also, the malaphors and constant meme and gif references confused me. I found them to be kind of annoying, especially when I wasn’t sure what they were. It kind of brought me out of the story.

I liked Emery at the beginning of the book, but once the drama/conflict with her character started, I didn’t care for it. I know it was used as a plot device to bring Sebastian and DJ closer together. But the way it was executed felt inauthentic and forced. I didn’t buy it. I felt the same with Kim, too. She was horrible toward DJ, and at the end, we learn it’s because she felt abandoned, was confused about her feelings about DJ, and then jealous of Sebastian. What?? Again, didn’t buy it. Felt like a convenient way to wrap things up in a nice bow. It just felt underwhelming to me, and the ending felt rushed.

And I know the queer and trans bullying in this was realistic and is sadly what many people and kids have to deal with, but it was really depressing at times. Just made me remember how bleak the world is and how horrible, evil, hateful, close-minded and violent people are. Broke my heart. I just wanted to give Sebastian and DJ a hug and be their friend. Being a kid is hard enough, especially in high school, so I can’t imagine what it’s like for trans kids with the added stress, attention, and hate directed their way. I think this did a great job at bringing light to the situation, though. It felt important. But, like I said, it broke my heart, because it served as a reminder of how much change is still needed in the world. Change that isn’t happening fast enough. For some reason, people just can’t seem to wrap their heads around others who are “different” or don’t fit into their sexist, misogynistic, gender-stereotyped “boxes” and follow the “status quo” they’ve been brainwashed into believing is “right” and the way things “should be.” Makes me so mad. And the behavior of some of the people in this book and their treatment towards DJ and Sebastian p*ssed me off. Gah people are the worse.😩😒🤦🏻‍♀️. But I digress…

The other thing I wasn’t a huge fan of was the lack of and fade-to-black sex scenes. I’m not sure what that says about me, but I guess I was expecting more in that department. I would have liked a few scenes of them being more intimate. Just has to do with personal preferences🙃. I like seeing this part of relationships in books, because no two are alike and the connection, intimacy, dialogue, enjoyment, and exploration between the characters makes my heart happy, especially when they have a healthy, loving relationship like DJ and Sebastian. And seeing how Sebastian was inexperienced and DJ struggled with parts of his body, I was interested to see that part of their relationship. I think there was a way it could have been included that added depth to the story and their relationship and was tasteful, sweet, and enlightening. We had a few scenes where they had discussions about it, which I loved, but for me, the scenes ended too soon. I would have liked to have seen more.

Also, sadly, I started to lose interest around chapter 36, because nothing was really happening and it started to feel repetitive and drawn out, so I almost DNFed it. But curiosity got the best of me, and I skimmed the remaining chapters to get an idea of what happened. Like I said, I loved the beginning, but I feel like the story lost steam and direction in the second half. It felt like it could have been shorter or that the plot could have been richer and more thought-out. Idk it just felt like something was missing that I can’t quite put my finger on. More depth maybe?🤔

I think overall, this had more YA vibes than I would have liked or was expecting, but I still enjoyed it. I think it was an important story to tell and more people should read stories like this to expand their horizons and empathy towards others and to reflect on their own thoughts and behaviors. Because at the end of the day, love is love and people should just live and let live and be and let be (as long as it’s not hurting anyone, of course).😊❤️

[Tammy Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book totally hit me in the feels! It is a story of true survival....survival from oneself as well as others that would do fatal harm. It is also a story of true friendship...not caring about what is seen on the outside of a person but everything that the person manifests on the inside. DJ is a boy that couldn't live his life as a lie anymore. He knew he would get flack, but he was not prepared for just how far people would go. Sebastian has been infatuated with DJ for over a year and is more than happy to be his friend when all others seem to have disappeared. These two characters were so brave and had such a beautiful connection. The situations they encountered were intense and filled me with sadness, but there were also times that humanity actually showed up and eased some of the pain. This was an incredible story that I highly recommend.

[ME E · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore both characters in this book so much. The strength and growth these two experience is inspiring. I was completely here for the romance and what it means for these two book babes as their feelings for each other got stronger.

This book has exposed me raw and has me eager for more stories from this author. I was smiling and giggling and felt my heart melting... but I was also biting my nails nervous, with my heart pounding at times as well. Seeing and reading some of the internal and external struggles some of my friends and family have gone through was thought provoking but also needed.

I wish that more of the world can be exposed to books like this and be able to read them with an open mind and a welcoming heart. We all need to try to be better and learn. This Upper YA novel has touched me in a very personal way and will hold a spot in my heart.

[Annie Maus · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I read J.R. Gray’s Burn That Bridge, I didn’t know whether to laugh, cry or bite my fingernails anxiously. But for a transgender guy in a conservative, trans/homophobic town, all three are appropriate. And to his credit, J.R. Gray pens typical teens with average feelings, never once exaggerating to elicit emotion. Despite his unique problems, protagonist DJ’s issues and coping strategies are identifiable.

When ex-cheerleader “Darcy” arrives at his Senior year as “DJ,” he loses his best friend, Kim, stirs up a ton of malicious gossip and gains a new friend, Sebastian. Sebastian had crushed on Darcy from afar, but finds DJ more approachable, and equally as intriguing. Then Sebastian’s best friend, Emery, also betrays him, befriending Kim, and the boys grow even closer, sometimes including Smith, Emery’s ex. This community of friends/frenemies personify the rapidly changing allegiances and miscommunications of adolescence to a “t.” (Excuse a bad pun.) Even their parents and teachers are gritty and human, but well-rounded and supportive.
.
As it turns out, DJ and Sebastian fit well, though they approach intimacy with the appropriate hesitance for a complex relationship. For example, Sebastian had assumed he was straight. “Did I have to come out to my parents? Why should I have to come out? Couldn’t it just be accepted…? Why did it all of a sudden have to be a thing because I had feelings for someone?” Thus, it’s natural for both guys to have nerves, unable to ask whether the other is gay, and to fear that intimacy could cost them their carefully acquired friendship. I love the plot twist that reveals their desires and permits physical contact. Then, there are questions like whether it’s safer to hide their shift to boyfriends at school, with its increasingly tense atmosphere. And just how far will haters go in their intimidation?

Humor: I learned a new term, “malaphor,” which occurs by mixing clichés. Here are a few of my favorites. “You’ll be beating them away with a dead horse.” “We’ll burn that bridge when we get to it.” “Two wrongs don’t make a left.” Prepare to chuckle.
Wisdom: “We make choices every day, and some of those choices we can’t possibly predict the outcomes for, so we live on through the mistakes and consequences.”
Ugliness: “I could kick myself for crying. I was a man. Men didn’t cry. I shoved my palms into my eyes, willing this to go away…. I’d already killed so many parts of myself pretending to be the girl everyone wanted me to be. I needed to save what was left.”
Beauty: “He was my rainbow. A prism projecting color into this dreary existence. The little bit of light shining through the rain.”

I’ve read trans books since the eighties. Meanwhile, society has moved forward… to some degree, in Burn That Bridge, each word rings clear and true for today, each thought and emotion is nuanced, bent to the special joys and pains of LGBTQ teens and their allies. Adolescents’ current dilemmas, their hopes, dreams and possibilities are captured with all the grace and clumsiness of young adulthood, culminating in a thoroughly captivating, horrifying and hopeful novel.

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stunning story.

I feel totally inadequate to write a review of this book. Burn That Bridge is a wonderful YA/New Adult story; I’ve never read one like it. I requested a review copy because I’ve loved other books I’ve read by J.R. Gray and I loved this one, too.

I’m well past 60 years-old so there is a lot of terminology in the story that I didn’t totally get (some of the gaming, meme, gif speak) but that didn’t really matter or impact my overall enjoyment of the book. The story really tugged at my heart. No one should have to endure the things that DJ and Sebastian did and for a while I wondered what kind of ending the author was going to give the story. I feel like it’s not really a romance, albeit there is definitely romance between DJ and Sebastian and there is a HFN. It felt so real to me when I read it and I wanted to wrap DJ and Sebastian up in protective cotton/bubble-wrap or armor to keep them safe.

While I loved this book, I had a few issues that kept me from giving it 5 stars. At times, I had trouble knowing who was speaking and it was enough that I had to back up and re-read more than I’m used to. There were also a few places where I think the dialogue got mixed up between characters and when I couldn’t totally figure it out I just had to move on. While I received a review copy of the book, I actually read the copy I borrowed from Kindle Unlimited so I was reading the published version. At least once, they were supposed to be in DJ’s bedroom but a trundle was mentioned and that was what Sebastian had, not DJ. So, while I normally wouldn’t knock off a star for spelling, grammar, or other minor things, collectively these things took me out of the story more than I could ignore.

I want to conclude on a positive note and say how glad I am that I read Burn That Bridge. It made me think about things I’ve never thought of before and, because it felt so real, I also feel like I learned a lot. Thank you, J.R. Gray for expanding my perspective.

A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.

***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***

[Cat · Rating 3 out of 5]

DJ and Sebastian are #couplegoals!

There was a lot I liked about this book. The main characters both have a great voice that shines through the text and they are so funny as they banter together throughout the book. They’re also incredibly sweet together and their friendship grows into a beautiful romance. I especially adored Sebastian with his big heart! The parents in this book are so supportive, which was refreshing to read, and actually played a role throughout the story as caring and responsible parents.

Unfortunately, it was hard for me to focus on the book for two main reasons and I had to push myself to finish it. First, there was something seriously lacking in the storytelling. Yes the characters and dialogue were strong, but the plot itself kind of fell flat. Second, this book needs some editing. I don’t mind some typos and a few grammatical errors here and there. But while I was reading, the tenses weren’t always correct, the dialogue could be hard to follow as far as who was speaking, and there were some really clunky transitions both within scenes and from scene to scene. I had to pause a lot and reread sections.

Since the above reasons are personal to me and subjective, I do recommend this book. It gives readers a glimpse into what it can be like coming out as trans in a largely unsupportive community. And again, there was plenty to like about this book, including the humor (I laughed a lot at all the friendship silliness and jokes). Content warnings include transphobia, homophobia and dead naming. This romance is low heat - lots of kissing and one seggs scene that is appropriate for the book’s intended audience.

Note that this story does have an HEA!

[Fanni's So Many Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to GRR and J.R.Gray for providing me a copy to review.

This was my first book about a trans character. I've been hesitant to pick up any book with a trans MC because I knew so little about this topic. But when I came accross this book the synopsis and the bravery behind DJ's choice of coming out grabbed my attention immediatly and I wanted to know more. So when I had the chance to recieve an ARC it was no question I sign up.

Burn that Bridge is the story of DJ who decides to come out as trans in his last year of high school and Sebastian who had a crush on them since they moved here and his transition made no difference to him. In this book we get to experience all the challanges of coming out as trans, the hostility of southern beliefs, the cruelty of high school students but also the power of kindness and friendship and the goodness of hearts that not judge.

The story is dual POV so we first hand see DJ live through the hell he created deciding he couldn't hide his true self anymore. The struggle to understand if he made the right choice or just made senior year a living hell for himself. And we also see Sebastian's POV. He realizes some life changing stuff about himself when his feelings for DJ do not change at all after his transition. And also seeing him rejected gives him the courage to approach the guy for the first time in a year and try to provide friendship when all other kids seem to pull away. I loved his accepting, joyful self that was just plain beautiful in the way he gave his love to DJ. First as a friend then more.
Their frindship and relationship is built on trust given after seeing the other's vulnerabilities and the power they give each other not giving up even after being threatened.

The story itself was pretty great but unfortunately the storytelling and the structure was a bit wobbly. There were some storylines that were picked up and never finished. The emotional journey was a little ubrupt not showing the inner turmoil of the situation. I felt the characters a bit distant.

But overall, I think this book was a really good story. I gained a lot of knowledge on trans people and their experience and also had a blas reading about the goodness that showed itself in this book facing the adversity and hate of others.

I highly recommend it!

[Bookish Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok this book was absolutely fantastic! I tend to not read YA stories because I like things a little spicier, BUT the characters and storyline are so well written and emotional that I didn't even miss all that. It has some moments of sensual intimacy between DJ and Sebastian, but of course nothing too explicit. It was sweet without being overly so.

This was my first time reading a story with a transgender main character. I wasn't sure exactly what to expect going in, but I knew there would be some tough moments to read. Burn That Bridge does a great job of reflecting how life can be for someone who is making the transition and how amazing a great support system can make a huge difference.

I have to say though, Sebastian’s character was my absolute favorite. He held a torch for DJ before and during and was there for him through every good and bad moment. He was thoughtful and sensitive and attentive and made sure to make space for DJ's feelings, whatever they were in any moment. He was also hella funny and their banter had me cracking up in moments. They just fit like 2 puzzle pieces.

I also loved the supporting characters. Sebastian’s parents, DJ's mom, their teacher Mr. Heavens, and Sebastian’s friends who welcomed DJ into their group. It helped build a foundation that led up to the relationship sparked between Sebastian and DJ. A judgment free zone that was full of joy and love.

Burn That Bridge also shed light and some of the darker places in life that the trans community endures. Things that align with news stories we see everyday regarding the hate and cruelty doled out by bigots. I appreciated that the book touches on these things. If people read more stories like this, I think there would be more empathy in the world.

5/5 stars. Highly recommended

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

"There was a light to this boy I’d never experienced before. His soul was brightness. I envied him. I wanted to comb my fingers through him and feel like he felt if only for an instant".

I'm not sure any review I write can do this upcoming release from JR Gray justice.

I finished it in bed last night at 11am and I lay there thinking about it for hours until I fell asleep (after writing a kind of delirious email to the author first).

So. Burn That Bridge is a beautifully, impeccably written YA. On the surface, it's about Sebastian, the geeky kid who has had a quiet crush on a cheerleader for all of the last school year, and DJ, the ex-cheerleader who is starting his new school year embracing his trans identity. On a deeper level, it's about chasing your happiness and holding tight to it, in a world that can be so cruel and terrifying and dangerous, especially for anyone whose identity falls outside of what's seen as the mainstream.

These teens leap off the page, with their obsessive malaphorising and gif reenactment. They are at times both hilarious and heartbreaking. They are genuine and make so many mistakes but they are growing and changing.

There are hard things to read in this book, and I cried a few times at how cruel people can be (to themselves and to others). So be advised of trigger warnings for self-harming behaviour, and transphobic/homophobic behaviour and language.

There's a HFN, which is usually my favourite ending for YA.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.

[Guardian.angel54 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Words can not describe

Wow! I mean, seriously ... Wow! This book is everything and so much more! I honestly think I'm in a little bit of a book afterglow but I have to say how I'm feeling as I just finished, and I don't want to wait.

I've read books previously that featured trans characters but nothing before has so totally immersed me into the emotional and physical mindset of what it must be like to be a trans teen. The turmoil that DJ goes through, before and during the start of his transition is just heartbreaking. To feel so imprisoned in your own body. Then to finally come out and deal with the backlash of homophobic, small-minded people is just ... gutwrenching! There were times in reading this that I wanted to cry - and then there were times when I wanted to cheer out loud for DJ and Sebastian. They were so strong and supportive of each other as they both navigated new self views and social interactions. Smith was an absolutely amazing friend and I loved how he just easily made space for the new dynamics without even flinching. This book is literally in a league all of its own and I seriously applaud the author for, not only tackling a difficult subject, but for doing it in such a brutally honest voice - and yet still imbibed it with a thread of hope. I would say the ending was more of a HFN, because I kind of feel like DJ and Sebastian's story is really just beginning. I'd love to read more about these two and the romantic in me wants to believe that they make it through to their real HEA! Two words in closing: Read This!! So good!

[Lili B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Burn that bridge is one of those books, that held me captive from page one till the end.
I never know if a book is YA or NA but with this one it can be said, that DJ and Sebastian are doing a lot of growing up in their last year in high school. All that is accompanied by family, friends and enemies, allys and at one point professional help. It is described how all those different groups can be a huge help or horror for teenagers coming to terms with themselves.
The struggle Sebastian and DJ are going through is real, but the book never leaves them completely helpless. It picks up on situations in DJ´s past that were very dark; those are only represented in retrospective. I love the overall positive notion of the book. Even if life seems too hard to go on, it always shows a light at the end of the tunnel. The love story that develops is very sweet. But what I loved best, was how the two main characters were supporting each other. I want parents, teachers, teenagers, aunts, uncles, all the humans to read this book. And to see what support looks like.
The one thing I found was how catchy it was. But an even more prominent aspect to me was, how real it felt. It did not only feel like I read the story but, that I was really a part of it. I really hated some people at some point, I fell in love, I was heartbroken but the most important of all my feelings was, that I was hopeful when I was finished. Thank you for this hope JR Gray!

[Amy Dufera - Amy's MM Romance Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Burn that Bridge is an amazing young adult read. Everything about this JR Gray tale is simply fabulous.

Damn! I love this book.

It's a coming of age story that follows DJ, a newly trans teen boy, and his boyfriend Sebastian. There's a lot going on throughout, but the emotions are always front and center.

This book has it all. Bullying, friendship issues, transphobia, homophobia, rich versus poor, and so much more.

I appreciate that Sebastian's sexuality is never an issue to him. He was attracted to DJ before he transitioned, and he has no problem accepting his attraction to DJ as a boy. As he states, he's simply attracted to DJ the person.

I adore how everything develops between these two, including the way they deal with adversity. This is a story of survival in a cruel world. Their connection is strong, but their devotion to each other is even stronger.

Everything is fantastically developed, with the storyline riveting, compelling, and easy to follow. The writing is raw and authentic, touching on extremely poignant issues.

It ends with a happy for now for this group of friends, with college in their future.

Burn That Bridge is a must read for anyone looking for the story of a transgender teen. JR Gray's writing is raw and honest in this impressive tale.

[This Curly Arab · Rating 5 out of 5]

Burn that Bridge is an excellent book about surviving high school while understanding your true self. The story follows DJ, a transgender guy that comes out and begins living his truth during his final year of high school. Sebastian, who has had a long time crush on DJ and finally finds the courage to become friends with him.

I really enjoyed the plot and the chemistry between the characters. The plot--surviving high school as a trans bisexual man--isn't the only focus of the story. I felt like the story was really about DJ and Sebastian's friendship and what it looks like when you can make a genuine connections with someone. The story also contained a a great mix of sweetness and anticipation. They both embark on a journey of learning and discovery about themselves and each other.

I read this story in just a day. It was easy to read and I felt like I couldn't get enough of DJ and Sebastian's sweetness and banter. Oh and the malaphors were great too!. JR is a new to me author and I was not disappointed by my first foray into his work. I’m planning on recommending this book to my local queer youth book club.

Content warnings: conversations about self harm, homophobia, transphobia, bullying, violence against a trans person.

[Ginger Buknurd · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.

As the parent of a queer teen, one with friends with a variety of gender associations and sexual identities, this book tugged at my heart...While I am not traditionally a reader of YA, I do follow this author in his more adult works. His writing and character development definitely makes the trip down YA lane worth it.

The relationship between DJ and Sebastian is so incredibly sweet. Sebastian is drawn initially to DJ due to a year long crush, but quickly offers friendship when everyone shuns DJ. Their journey from friendship to relationship was darling, and the backlash they experience in a conservative small town very realistic.

It was so great to read a story with amazing parental support. I know so many parents fail IRL, and I love the author is using his voice to show how parents should be.

I enjoyed this sweet, emotional and age appropriate story. My only reason for giving a 4 and not 5 is that I felt it ended a bit abruptly. I would have loved to see them end their senior year and get beyond this small minded, small town.

Thank you J.R. Gray for another great read!

[brownsoda · Rating 5 out of 5]

“’Pronouns. I don’t want to assume.’ I had been assuming all day in my head, but wanted to do this right”
“He nodded slowly. ‘How ‘d you know?’
“I’m not entirely ignorant of the world outside of the trash fire. I have Tumbler. I get some culture’” YA is not a genre typically enjoy; after I read that passage between Sebastian and DJ I knew I was in for a good read. Many times, in YA the characters seem to be wordy and their word choices do not seem to fit, they seem scripted or fake; while here the repartee flowed. DJ’s struggles were real, and every day could bring the same or differing issue. DJ’s coming as trans and trying to carve out his real identity, to the becoming a new adult man was compelling. Sebastian, learning that how he perceived himself may not have been clear, his honesty loyalty, and kindness. The secondary characters were great, I believed thy lived in a very conservative town. I am happy to say that I have finally read a book in 20/21 that included loving and supportive parents.
I recommend this book. Another solid read, from this author.
I was given an ARC from Gay Romance Review for my honest review.

[Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one almost broke me and I thanked it for doing so

Sweet, painful, and ultimately wonderful.

This book has some dark moments, some moments that made me want to scream and shake a few people. It had moments I was terrified. It was a really great read. Agonising but good.

It also had some amazing parts that made me go ahhhhhh yessss what great people! I loved it so so much. This is going on the need to own list right now.

Carefully written, sensitively handled, it felt very realistic which is why it hit so hard.

I adored and felt so connected to DJ and Sebastian was such a sweetheart. I totally loved him. Their relationship made all the hurt so so worth it. Smith was a great friend and I adored him! And the ending, I saw that one coming a mile away but in a good way.

Emery and Kim might not have been the greatest friends at first but they got there and their ending was worth it too.

This story was poignant, sweet, heart aching and beautiful. I could not put it down or stop reading and even with the bad stuff that occurred, I would rec this book to anyone. Wonderful book. 12/10, would read again!