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Who Are We Fooling?
David Vernon’s life is out of control. College was a bust, dating only feels like a chore, and he can’t seem to find a way to feel settled. He devotes his time to his workouts, his body to his tattoos, and control to the fact that he can’t remember his last haircut. He has never particularly considered himself strong, simply a shard leftover from a broken home. David waited years to finally get out of his miserable little hometown, to finally graduate, move away, start a new life, but fate wasn't kind to his plans. When his younger sister Amy, just months away from her High School graduation, finally reaches her breaking point with their abusive father, David finds himself back in the small town he worked so hard to get out of. He would make up for leaving her behind, for not being there when she needed him; he would take her away. What should have been simple is proven to be anything but, as David's heart finds its counterpoint in an unexpected confidant.
Andrew Braiden just wants to avoid ass-kickings from bullies long enough to create art. He is a soft-spoken young man with a timid heart and a hopeful spark, that drives him toward his dreams of being an artist. That same drive pushes him to flee from that same hometown, to make something of himself on his own terms and be himself without ridicule.
Through a single act of kindness, Andrew and David’s lives come together, and it sets both their worlds off-kilter. Years, miles, and fears will separate them, but could Andrew be the compass through David’s journey of self-discovery?
Andrew Braiden just wants to avoid ass-kickings from bullies long enough to create art. He is a soft-spoken young man with a timid heart and a hopeful spark, that drives him toward his dreams of being an artist. That same drive pushes him to flee from that same hometown, to make something of himself on his own terms and be himself without ridicule.
Through a single act of kindness, Andrew and David’s lives come together, and it sets both their worlds off-kilter. Years, miles, and fears will separate them, but could Andrew be the compass through David’s journey of self-discovery?
407 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2021
9 people are currently reading
755 people want to read
About the author
Wendi B. Dennison
2 books26 followersBeneath a simple pen name and a small internet following, Wendi took the opportunity to tell a story.
Upon reading her very first Stephen King novel at the age of ten, Wendi knew she wanted to be a writer. Telling stories is something she has done in many mediums, whether it be writing, theatre or film. The written word has always held a special place in her heart, and after over thirty years on this earth, she has settled in a place where she feels truly at home.
She wants to tell you stories to make your heart flutter. She wants to write about love and lust, heartbreak and healing. Wendi writes characters she feels represent her and those she loves, and she is ready for a world where anyone and everyone’s love stories can be told.
Representation is important.
Times are changing.
Love is universal.
Upon reading her very first Stephen King novel at the age of ten, Wendi knew she wanted to be a writer. Telling stories is something she has done in many mediums, whether it be writing, theatre or film. The written word has always held a special place in her heart, and after over thirty years on this earth, she has settled in a place where she feels truly at home.
She wants to tell you stories to make your heart flutter. She wants to write about love and lust, heartbreak and healing. Wendi writes characters she feels represent her and those she loves, and she is ready for a world where anyone and everyone’s love stories can be told.
Representation is important.
Times are changing.
Love is universal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
November 5, 2022
*** 3.5 stars ***
July 31, 2021
Trigger warning: brief references to parental abuse and suicide.
For a debut novel Wendi Dennison has crafted a compelling story. It quickly enamors us of her main characters and engages us in her story-line. I’m a sucker for coming-home stories and this started as one of those. I’m a sucker for underdogs and bullies getting their comeuppances and this story has those elements as well. I’m a sucker for waifs and strays, and siblings uniting against a sometimes uncaring world and it’s one of those. Finally, this is the story of a smart but somewhat clueless straight-boy finding out, much to his chagrin, that maybe, just maybe, he’s not all that straight.
That said… Wendi could clearly use the services of a good copy-editor to tighten up her prose. She really needs to rethink her sometimes goofy word choices, and to finally learn the difference between lie and lay, but the bones of a great story are clearly in evidence. The last time I read a book that hooked me this completely but had me reaching so often for the blue pencils in my mind involved sparkly vampires and native American wolf-boys.
I’d advise anyone who enjoys a sweet m/m romance by a new author to take a look at this one. But anyone who’s also an English teacher (or an “Authoritarian Grammarian”) should probably have a couple of glasses of wine first.
For a debut novel Wendi Dennison has crafted a compelling story. It quickly enamors us of her main characters and engages us in her story-line. I’m a sucker for coming-home stories and this started as one of those. I’m a sucker for underdogs and bullies getting their comeuppances and this story has those elements as well. I’m a sucker for waifs and strays, and siblings uniting against a sometimes uncaring world and it’s one of those. Finally, this is the story of a smart but somewhat clueless straight-boy finding out, much to his chagrin, that maybe, just maybe, he’s not all that straight.
That said… Wendi could clearly use the services of a good copy-editor to tighten up her prose. She really needs to rethink her sometimes goofy word choices, and to finally learn the difference between lie and lay, but the bones of a great story are clearly in evidence. The last time I read a book that hooked me this completely but had me reaching so often for the blue pencils in my mind involved sparkly vampires and native American wolf-boys.
I’d advise anyone who enjoys a sweet m/m romance by a new author to take a look at this one. But anyone who’s also an English teacher (or an “Authoritarian Grammarian”) should probably have a couple of glasses of wine first.
November 19, 2022
This is written in dual POV David’s then Andrew’s 5 years later. For some reason I felt like I lost interest during the second half. I liked the plot I think it was a bit too long and much of the same throughout. It also appears to be part of either a series or four which I didn’t realize going into this.
February 22, 2022
Told in a 50/50 split PoV over two timelines, stoic, self-sacrificing David returns to his hometown a few months before his younger sister Amy's graduation, intending to be there to support her as she transitions out of their abusive father's home. He and Amy soon befriend shy, self-conscious Andrew, who has been mercilessly bullied throughout his school career and just wants to keep his head down until graduation. The more time the three friends spend together, the more David begins to question himself, though he is not ready to understand. When the novel takes up Andrew's storyline, some years later, second-chance romance blends with a journey of healing and acceptance, offering a beautiful, touching love story that's absolutely shot to steal its place as one of my favourite reads of the year.
A gentle, heartfelt slowburn, 'Who Are We Fooling?' unfolds gradually, with so much repect for the main characters and their journeys. The book is absolutely littered with beautiful moments of each character showing love and care for the other - platonic or romantic - right from the very beginning. Whether it's David buying the same milkshake as Andrew right after he's been bullied for doing so - and just David in general taking on the responsibility of being the protective, caring figure he never had in his own life - there's such lovely depictions of what it means to love someone, how to be a good friend, a good partner.
Both David and Andrew's psychological complexities are explored so well, with a light touch to suit the genre, but in every action (and especially so with David), I understood and resonated with his choices, his self-doubt, and his struggle. I can't really do justice to how soft and warm this book made me feel in my heart, yet it's not in the least bit sappy or overwrought, it's such a realistic yet romantic book. And that's before we even get into the actual romance between David and Andrew, and David's journey of self-discovery.
Two scenes towards the end of the novel had me in tears, both of them revolving around honesty, vulnerability, acceptance, and unconditional care. I have to praise the author for showing such a caring depiction of one partner recognising the other is not ready for where their relationship is heading, and gently but firmly taking control to stop, because THEY know something is wrong, and they care enough about their partner to put his well-being first - and that this is presented as absolutely normal and healthy, not even something to question. In my experience, this kind of compassionate response is all but non-existant in fiction, especially Romance, and I found this scene so meaningful. Quite a few of my expectations were pleasantly subverted, which I always enjoy!
While initially I wondered whether it might have been more effective to show David and Andrew's PoV switches throughout the whole novel, rather than dedicate half and half to each, I quickly changed my mind. I think the structure of the novel works so well thematically, as a way of demonstrating both characters' growth. In the first half of the novel, David is trying to help, support and protect Andrew, and in the second, Andrew does the same for David, though in different ways, and for different reasons. Theirs is such a delicately handled love story, I absolutely adored reading it. It felt like watching your two best friends falling in love, I can't explain it any better (even though we're quite different personalities, I guess that makes me Amy!?) I can't wait for the next book in the series!
A gentle, heartfelt slowburn, 'Who Are We Fooling?' unfolds gradually, with so much repect for the main characters and their journeys. The book is absolutely littered with beautiful moments of each character showing love and care for the other - platonic or romantic - right from the very beginning. Whether it's David buying the same milkshake as Andrew right after he's been bullied for doing so - and just David in general taking on the responsibility of being the protective, caring figure he never had in his own life - there's such lovely depictions of what it means to love someone, how to be a good friend, a good partner.
Both David and Andrew's psychological complexities are explored so well, with a light touch to suit the genre, but in every action (and especially so with David), I understood and resonated with his choices, his self-doubt, and his struggle. I can't really do justice to how soft and warm this book made me feel in my heart, yet it's not in the least bit sappy or overwrought, it's such a realistic yet romantic book. And that's before we even get into the actual romance between David and Andrew, and David's journey of self-discovery.
Two scenes towards the end of the novel had me in tears, both of them revolving around honesty, vulnerability, acceptance, and unconditional care. I have to praise the author for showing such a caring depiction of one partner recognising the other is not ready for where their relationship is heading, and gently but firmly taking control to stop, because THEY know something is wrong, and they care enough about their partner to put his well-being first - and that this is presented as absolutely normal and healthy, not even something to question. In my experience, this kind of compassionate response is all but non-existant in fiction, especially Romance, and I found this scene so meaningful. Quite a few of my expectations were pleasantly subverted, which I always enjoy!
While initially I wondered whether it might have been more effective to show David and Andrew's PoV switches throughout the whole novel, rather than dedicate half and half to each, I quickly changed my mind. I think the structure of the novel works so well thematically, as a way of demonstrating both characters' growth. In the first half of the novel, David is trying to help, support and protect Andrew, and in the second, Andrew does the same for David, though in different ways, and for different reasons. Theirs is such a delicately handled love story, I absolutely adored reading it. It felt like watching your two best friends falling in love, I can't explain it any better (even though we're quite different personalities, I guess that makes me Amy!?) I can't wait for the next book in the series!
June 8, 2021
What an emotional roller coaster! This is a wonderful, engrossing story about two men who are slowly growing into themselves and each other. David and Andrew are puzzle pieces that break and come together and their journey is supremely satisfying to witness. I fell in love with them individually, but it was nothing compared to how they are together. These are complex, real characters that will hold your heart and never let go. Their story is clearly very close to the author’s heart, and it shows in the love and detail she has put in bringing it to life. Her words drip with sincerity and authenticity. Funny and heartbreaking and so very beautiful. A shining example of the fact that love is love.
December 4, 2021
A sweeping, slow burning tale of love, friendship and family and becoming the person we were meant to be.
Written with wit and a deep caring and understanding of character, Who Are Fooling brings the lives of David, Amy and Andrew to a heartbreaking and ultimately redeeming light of bring and playful colors and sounds.
The book doesn't quite end as it just stops and we are left with an unknown future.
Written with wit and a deep caring and understanding of character, Who Are Fooling brings the lives of David, Amy and Andrew to a heartbreaking and ultimately redeeming light of bring and playful colors and sounds.
The book doesn't quite end as it just stops and we are left with an unknown future.
January 24, 2023
I really liked the first part, the second one wasn’t that strong, and I slowly lost interest in the story as nothing much was happening.
September 11, 2021
You know how sometimes you finish a book and immediately forget the characters names and the entire plot because it was all so forgettable? THIS BOOK IS NOT THAT. These characters and their journey towards each other is just so beautiful and one I won’t soon forget. I was totally engrossed the entire time and immediately found myself wanting MORE!
October 18, 2021
Not gonna lie the age gap was weird at first but then i learned to ignore it.
Quotes
1. “I can’t pretend that I don’t feel about you the way I do,” Andrew whispered, breath warm against David’s lips. “You mean more to me than that.” -Andrew page 126
2. “I’ll always have words for you if nothing else”
“What if I want more than just words?”
-Andrew and David page 155
3. “I just wish the stars would do their fucking job and ailing “ -Andrew page 156
4. ‘To say he regretted what had happened would have been a boldfaced lie; he couldn’t regret te most honest moment of his life.’ -David page 167
5. “David, i’m not pissed at you. That’s not even a remotely appropriate way to describe how i feel toward you. I’m not mad at you; you didn’t forget my birthday or stand me up for dinner, you broke my fucking heart,” -Andrew page 221
7. “Amazing is just a word… there are no words for this” -David page 363
Quotes
1. “I can’t pretend that I don’t feel about you the way I do,” Andrew whispered, breath warm against David’s lips. “You mean more to me than that.” -Andrew page 126
2. “I’ll always have words for you if nothing else”
“What if I want more than just words?”
-Andrew and David page 155
3. “I just wish the stars would do their fucking job and ailing “ -Andrew page 156
4. ‘To say he regretted what had happened would have been a boldfaced lie; he couldn’t regret te most honest moment of his life.’ -David page 167
5. “David, i’m not pissed at you. That’s not even a remotely appropriate way to describe how i feel toward you. I’m not mad at you; you didn’t forget my birthday or stand me up for dinner, you broke my fucking heart,” -Andrew page 221
7. “Amazing is just a word… there are no words for this” -David page 363
November 20, 2021
I don’t think I could be anymore in love with a book than I am with, Who are we kidding?
First, let me be clear. Who Are We Kidding? Is a love story. In fact, it’s the best sort of love story, because it isn’t just about romance, attraction, and exciting moments. It’s deeper than that. So much deeper. It’s also a story of self-love, accepting ourselves as we truly are, and finding those in this world who will stand by our sides through it all.
This story is adeptly woven together with delightful, beautiful prose, deeply complex and lovable characters (I am madly in love with the main players, David, Andrew, and Amy), and powerful lessons of growth, discovery, and overcoming.
This story captivated me. It’s one of those you can’t stop reading because your dying to know exactly what will happen, yet you are simultaneously desperate for the story to never end.
Dennison is one of those authors that can make you feel deeply. My heart burned with each romantic moment. I cried along with the characters in their moments of pain, and I laughed with them in their moments of joy. I’m already aching with anticipation for the next book in this series, because each of these characters is a part of me now, and I’m completely invested in what happens to them next.
The world needed this story. I needed this story, and you definitely delivered. Five star read, hands down.
This story is 18+ and has references to suicidal ideations and moments of violence for this with triggers.
First, let me be clear. Who Are We Kidding? Is a love story. In fact, it’s the best sort of love story, because it isn’t just about romance, attraction, and exciting moments. It’s deeper than that. So much deeper. It’s also a story of self-love, accepting ourselves as we truly are, and finding those in this world who will stand by our sides through it all.
This story is adeptly woven together with delightful, beautiful prose, deeply complex and lovable characters (I am madly in love with the main players, David, Andrew, and Amy), and powerful lessons of growth, discovery, and overcoming.
This story captivated me. It’s one of those you can’t stop reading because your dying to know exactly what will happen, yet you are simultaneously desperate for the story to never end.
Dennison is one of those authors that can make you feel deeply. My heart burned with each romantic moment. I cried along with the characters in their moments of pain, and I laughed with them in their moments of joy. I’m already aching with anticipation for the next book in this series, because each of these characters is a part of me now, and I’m completely invested in what happens to them next.
The world needed this story. I needed this story, and you definitely delivered. Five star read, hands down.
This story is 18+ and has references to suicidal ideations and moments of violence for this with triggers.
May 14, 2023
I didn't know what to expect from such an attractive (and purple!) cover and an unknown author.
First, the book is sensory pleasing. I don't know what the cover is made of, but it's very nice to touch. The font is slightly larger than in Polish editions, but I'm used to some books on Amazon.
As for content, I don't know where to start. First of all, as a whole, it is a very well constructed and thought out story. It is slowburn, everything in its place and on time, so the emotions in the reader have a place to bloom beautifully.
I don't know how Wendi did it, but it pulls you in from the first page. David's one good deed in the beginning that got it all started. And there's a lot here. There is a warm feeling, physical and mental pain from bullying at school, there are timid confessions and late self-discovery (although it's not a race). There are hurtful words, breakups and comebacks.
The title question slowly turns into an answer and finally happily disappears to be replaced by a sincere feeling of loving not only another person but also yourself.
Ps. It's illustrated!
First, the book is sensory pleasing. I don't know what the cover is made of, but it's very nice to touch. The font is slightly larger than in Polish editions, but I'm used to some books on Amazon.
As for content, I don't know where to start. First of all, as a whole, it is a very well constructed and thought out story. It is slowburn, everything in its place and on time, so the emotions in the reader have a place to bloom beautifully.
I don't know how Wendi did it, but it pulls you in from the first page. David's one good deed in the beginning that got it all started. And there's a lot here. There is a warm feeling, physical and mental pain from bullying at school, there are timid confessions and late self-discovery (although it's not a race). There are hurtful words, breakups and comebacks.
The title question slowly turns into an answer and finally happily disappears to be replaced by a sincere feeling of loving not only another person but also yourself.
Ps. It's illustrated!
June 19, 2021
What an impressive debut novel from a promising young author! I am obsessed with coming-of-age stories, and this is one of my favorites that I have read in quite some time. Immediately, I was invested in David’s story, and I was also eager to learn more and more about Andrew as well. The author does a beautiful job blending elements of young adult and adult romance within one book, which I imagine is a difficult thing to accomplish. But the author manages to do it in a meaningful way, humanizing both central characters individually, while also telling the story of their relationship overall. Anyone can connect to this story in some way, shape, or form. I highly recommend giving this book a chance!
June 30, 2021
“Why do you have to be doing anything? Why can’t it just be something that’s happening?”
Who Are We Fooling was the BEST Gay Romance/ Gay Fiction debut I’ve read this year. The way Wendi B. Dennison told David and Andrew’s love story was breathtaking and I couldn’t help but get lost in her beautiful narrative and crisp prose.
The feeling this novel evoked in me was unexpected, but very much welcome. David’s journey was filled with pain, sorrow and happiness and I was rooting for him from the moment the scene opened with him back in his old high school. This is going to sound like a cliche, but Andrew completed him.
I can’t recommend this debut novel highly enough. I urge you to add this to you list.
Who Are We Fooling was the BEST Gay Romance/ Gay Fiction debut I’ve read this year. The way Wendi B. Dennison told David and Andrew’s love story was breathtaking and I couldn’t help but get lost in her beautiful narrative and crisp prose.
The feeling this novel evoked in me was unexpected, but very much welcome. David’s journey was filled with pain, sorrow and happiness and I was rooting for him from the moment the scene opened with him back in his old high school. This is going to sound like a cliche, but Andrew completed him.
I can’t recommend this debut novel highly enough. I urge you to add this to you list.
May 17, 2024
I appreciate that the relationship didn’t stick after the initial attraction, but I still think they started off at an uncomfortable level while Andrew was so young and being bullied and being seen as being taken care of by David. It just kind of casts a weird shadow over the whole thing. But I can see how that’s down to personal preference. Like I said, the timeskip mitigates that a little for me which may have been the point, having your cake and eating it too. The reason it’s down to three stars is the slightly overemotional nature of both characters to me in situations where it didn’t feel warranted. Still, the characters kept me some level of interested.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2022
I could not put this book down! The author created such compelling, tortured characters that I couldn’t help but root for, which was only enhanced by the dual POV (first half from one character’s perspective, second half from another’s). I love a story in which a character comes to recognize their own queerness for the first time, and Who Are We Feeling served fantastic coming-of-age, coming-out realness. The only reason I didn’t give this book 5 stars was because it needs a thorough copy edit for typos, weird grammar, and tighter prose. That said, I can’t wait for the sequel.
July 28, 2023
This book was a beautiful story of self-discovery, growth, pain, joy, friendship, love and heartbreak. The characters felt very real, very relatable, like people I've known and grown up with. The author does a great job of immersing the reader in the setting as the characters travel through their journey.
It was genuinely comforting to me to watch the struggle and triumph of a character figuring themselves out a little bit later in life than a lot of stories show, and helped me feel a little bit less alone.
It was genuinely comforting to me to watch the struggle and triumph of a character figuring themselves out a little bit later in life than a lot of stories show, and helped me feel a little bit less alone.
December 23, 2021
Fabulous cast of characters, easy to root for from the outset.
Dennison drip feeds the backstories with talent, and provides a beautiful slow burn romance between the main characters, David and Andrew. With a heat level that is just right, the plot is well thought out and gives plenty of believable conflict to over come. The supporting cast deserve a mention. I hope we hear more from them in the next book.
Really looking forward to reading more in this series.
Dennison drip feeds the backstories with talent, and provides a beautiful slow burn romance between the main characters, David and Andrew. With a heat level that is just right, the plot is well thought out and gives plenty of believable conflict to over come. The supporting cast deserve a mention. I hope we hear more from them in the next book.
Really looking forward to reading more in this series.
August 16, 2023
A love story that is sweet and simple, but not without its layers. It is about love and loss, but also about family, whether it be biological or found. The two main characters display great care for each other without the illusion that they are in any way perfect. They are flawed in very real ways and feel relateable. Even with those flaws, they are charming and you find yourself rooting for them from the start. Highly Recommend.
July 6, 2021
Definitely an engrossing read! Love is love. Characters are relatable and loveable, you really want them to find their happiness. Would recommend it to anyone who loves coming of age, LGBTQ+ fiction, romance of any sort.
September 13, 2024
Sweet love story, love the bisexual rep and the simplicity of the story. Two people that simply have to wait for the right time, that fall in love with each other because of who they are on the inside and a genuine connection.
July 8, 2021
Hooked from start to finish. These characters meant so much to me! Brilliantly and beautifully written!
December 20, 2021
3.5 stars
It started out strong but lost me after the time skip.
It started out strong but lost me after the time skip.
May 13, 2022
I think it was just...not for me
The writing was beautiful tho
The writing was beautiful tho
May 30, 2022
What a read, I absolutely loved it, especially David and Andrew’s relationship, and how that grew into something wonderful. Totally recommended, such an awesome book!
November 22, 2022
Just read this on Kindle Unlimited. The story is cute but the writing is horrible.
August 12, 2024
super cute fluff you need to cleanse your reading palate
April 19, 2025
Wow, this book ended up being so honest, emotional, and healing. Absolutely loved the journey and will be immediately diving into book 2.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews