Undone

Vino & Veritas #18

by Leslie McAdam

My new roommate has the worst taste in men.

I mean, Murph’s special. He’s funny and flamboyant and full of life.

While I’m straight, even I can tell these guys aren’t good enough for him.

I had to yell at one date, toss another one out the door, and throw a beer in another’s face.

Kind of embarrassing, really. I don’t know what’s gotten into me.

I ask my sister what’s wrong with me and she says I’m jealous.

Jealous? Please. Me?

Come on.

Only thing is, I hate the thought of Murph kissing any guy. Ever.

Except, maybe ... me?

Undone is a contemporary m/m romance about a dreamy insurance agent that might not be as straight as he thinks, an adorable bartender who adds sparkle wherever he goes, and maybe one or two jokes about swords.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Friends To Lovers, Contemporary, LGBT, Audiobook, Forced Proximity

316 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 12, 2021

About the author

Leslie McAdam is a California girl who loves romance and well-defined abs. She lives in a drafty old farmhouse on a small orange tree farm in Southern California with her husband and two small children. Leslie's first published book, The Sun and the Moon, won a 2015 Watty, which is the world's largest online writing competition. She's gone on to receive additional literary awards and has been featured in multiple publications, including Cosmopolitan.com. Her books have been Top 100 Bestsellers on both Amazon and Apple Books. Leslie is employed by day but spends her nights writing about the men of your fantasies.

USA Today interview: http://happyeverafter.usatoday.com/20...

Cosmopolitan: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love...

Reviews

[Emily Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't expecting to fall head-over-heels for Jason and Murph, but wow was their story something special. I've read other roommate romances, even ones with a man who considered himself straight at the beginning, but none of them have gotten under my skin as much as Jason and Murph did. Murph, with his dazzling, true-to-himself personality, was irresistible from the start, and Jason's sweet caretaking had me swooning before he even realized he might be bisexual. Seeing the two of them get to know each other over shared dinners and TV shows was so much fun, and their easy camaraderie gave their entire story a comfy, relaxed tone. The progression of their relationship felt so natural that I could harly believe that Jason didn't see his attraction to Murph sooner. It's rare that I've found a character's complete and total obliviousness of their sexuality believable, but with Jason it felt genuine. I can't imagine what it must have been like for him to put himself in a narrow box of his family's expectations and brush off anything that rocked the boat. If anything, that made his realization about Murph even more exciting--for once, Jason was able to choose with his heart instead of letting someone else's choices dictate his life. Sure, it took a few cringe-inducing jealous fits, but just when I was starting to panic about Murph leaving, Jason came to his senses with a romantic, honest declaration that kickstarted the next chapter of their romance. That moment was truly a turning point for Jason and Murph, and I was impressed by how committed they were to communicating openly and exploring their physical connection. When it would have been easy to lie and hide, Jason stepped up and had those difficult coming-out conversations. I never once doubted that he was serious about Murph, and it was wonderful to see that passion translate into incredibly steamy nights together. I had hoped things would be smooth sailing for the two of them all the way to the end, but Murph had his own issues to work through before he was ready to accept Jason's love. Luckily, he had the support of some amazing friends, and it didn't take long for everyone to get on board the Jason-and-Murph train. It was bittersweet to reach the end of their story, but I'm 100% convinced that these two can tackle anything life throws at them in the future.

**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Jessica (jpbooklife) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can honestly say that I don't know who I was most charmed by in this book.
Murph, with his vibrance and energy just shines. He is colorful, bright and in his own words "extraordinary ".
Or Jason, who is the sweetest, dorkiest, most adorable insurance agent I've ever heard of. His need to nurture and take care of Murph comes from such a selfless place. The way he helped him move, feeding him and protecting him put hearts in my eyes.

Or it might have just been the author who charmed me with her writing  full of wit, humor, and heart.

The quick and easy rapport between Jason and Murph was just endearing. Their fast friendship, their open and honest conversations, I loved it all. And when their relationship develops into more it was just so emotional and beautiful.

This was such an incredible book about self discovery and truly owning your true self.

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learning about yourself

Murph is out and proud when he moved into a new flat with a new flatmate Jason. Jason leads a mediocre life until Murph comes into it and then he's going to fayres and cooking with his flatmate. Jason always assumed he was straight until he realises he's got feelings for Murph. This is when he learns he's actually bisexual. This story was absolutely perfect and wanted to hug both of them and be their friend. I can't recommend this book highly enough. To me it's perfect.

[Batwoman · Rating 5 out of 5]

ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS BOOK!! Starts off so innocent then to very steamy. So happy to finally have Murph’s story. I love how Murph is funny and always teasing throughout the whole book. While Jason is so clueless and it’s adorable. Absolutely loved reading their story. I can’t wait to read more of this series. Yes they are standalones but I want to know everyone’s story. Highly recommend this book!!

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 5 out of 5]

RATING 4.5 STARS

Undone is book number eighteen in the Vino & Veritas World. This is by Leslie McAdam. Sooo, this is both my very first book by Leslie AND my first book in this world. Leave it to me to start at book eighteen! So believe me when I say that it can be read as a complete stand alone!



Jason Falkner is twenty six years old and lives in Vermont. He works for his dad at his dad’s insurance agency. He has a woman who is his friend with benefits and he has never been in a relationship. He owns a large victorian home which he rents out the first two floors and lives on the third. He had a roommate that moved away and his sister has found him someone new. Jason’s life is sort of dull, sort of uninspired. He doesn’t enjoy his job, his father tries to run his life, and his days all pretty much run one into the other. Then his new roommate moved in and his world was turned upside down.

David “Murph” Murphy is out and proud. He’s small in stature but big in personality. He likes to wear make up, dress flashy in lots of color, and he radiates sunshine wherever he goes. He is twenty four years old and is a bartender at V &V. Murph has been hurt by someone he thought he was in love with and ever since then, he has just relied on hook-ups. He can’t believe how gorgeous his new landlord is. And how sweet. Jason cooks for him, packs food for him and cares for him in a way no one has ever done before. But he’s straight! Murph is a flirt and does his best to test Jason but he isn’t interested in him that way, so Murph is determined to get back on the hook-up train. Only every time he brings someone home, Jason runs them off!



Jason can’t figure out why he doesn’t want Murph with any of these men! Until his sister helps him figure it out. He’s jealous. He doesn’t want any of them with Murph because Murph is his! Murph brings color to his world. He makes him think about his life and the dullness of it all. About wanting more for himself. And for the first time ever, Jason wants a relationship, specifically a relationship with Murph.

These two were so cute together. It made me sad the way Jason was living, just plodding through life. And I loved the way that Murph opened his eyes to so much. Jason’s struggles with figuring out his feelings towards Murph were fun to watch. But I especially loved that once he figured out how he felt, he didn’t hold back at all. He was all in. It was Murph who actually struggled with how real it all was.



This is a cute, low angst, bi-awakening romance that made me smile and made my heart feel all warm and squishy. The next book I will read by this author is going to be Unmanageable. I’m so excited and can’t wait to get started.

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

[Saimi Vasquez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jason ahora tiene un nuevo compañero de piso, que le consiguio su hermana ya que su ultimo compañero se fuera a vivir con su novia. Su compañero es gay y totalmente extrovertido, con chisma y brillo, algo que le hacia falta en la vida de Jason. Lo que tarda en darse cuenta (porque el es totalmente despistado para esas cosas) es que no solo le gusta tenerlo como amigo y compañero de piso, sino que tambien ha comenzado a desarrollar esos sentimientos por el que nunca penso sentir por otro hombre, eso significaria que no es tan hetero como pensaba?
Murph tuvo que conseguir otro lugar donde vivir, despues que su mejor amigo Reeve se fuera a vivir con su novio, y tuvo la suerte de que en el bar donde trabaja (Vino & Veritas) una de las clientes lo escucho y lo contacto con su hermano. Lo que no espera es que este hombre sea tan perfecto para el, pero tan malo para su vida ya que es hetero, y no quiere desarrollar otro enamoramiento por otro hombre hetero porque sabe como termina su vida. Pero cuando Jason comienza a darse cuenta de su verdadera sexualidad, Murph solo puede pensar que esta soñando, y esta dispuesto a mantenerse dormido si es necesario para poder estar con el.
Jason debera enfrentar un cambio total en su estilo de vida, pero sobre todo debera demostrarle a Murph que sus miedos en su relacion con el son totalmente infundandos. Mientras Murph tiene que aceptar que el es tan merecedor del amor como cualquier otro y que quizas ese amor lo tenga realmente con Jason.

Un romance como ninguno hasta ahora, y aunque si es una formula muy comun (hombre hetero que se enamora de su amigo gay), los protas de esta historia son realmente unicos, diferentes y entretenidos, no hay mayor drama que el auto-conocimiento y la auto-aceptacion, lo que te deja pensando la cantidad de cosas que uno ha hecho o sigue haciendo para complacer a los demas y seguir con el flujo. Es una bonita historia, te hace reflexionar, te hace querer abrazar a los protas y querer decirles que todo va a terminar bien, en fin, es uno de esos romances que me gusta leer.
Ademas, le agregamos que aparecen muchisimos de los otros personajes de libros anteriores, sobre todo los que trabajan en Vino & Veritas, lo que lo hace un excelente libro para terminar la serie.
En fin, agradezco haberme topado con esta serie, me abrio los ojos a nuevos autores del genero y me permitio disfrutar de muchas historias diferentes (algunas mejores que otras, por supueto), que me me hicieron reir, llorar, suspirar y sobre todo reflexionar sobre lo felices que seriamos si en el mundo no hubiera tanta division y todos nos aceptaramos y a los demas como son.

[Renae Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** I received an eArc from Heart Eyes Press in exchange for an honest review.***

Murph is the absolute sweetest cinnamon roll MC ever!!! I was first introduced to him in Marley Valentine's V&V entry Unforgettable and I was instantly smitten with his character and desperately wanted his story. I was excitedly anticipating his romance and Undone did not disappoint.

Undone consists of a roommates to lovers trope with bisexual awakening elements story that is full of sweet moments between Murph and Jason who develop a genuine friendship where they are only safe as their authentic selves with one another. Their friendship scenes at the beginning are so endearing that I was swooning.

One of my favorite aspects of Undone is how earnest and sweet the friendship between Murph and Jason is and the progression of their relationship feels entirely plausible given how comfortable they make each other feel. I also enjoyed Jason's possessiveness in regards to Murph and his countless efforts at "sabotaging" his dates, those were very fun to read.

Overall I loved this addition to Vino & Veritas and felt it was an epic story that dealt with important themes wonderfully. I cannot recommend this story enough!

[Cadiva · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lovely way to end the Vino & Veritas series and also the second (or third) book I've read which is based on a Gay News story.

The basic premise is that one poster was worried they were homophobic because they hated everyone their flatmate dated. Turns out, they were in love with the flatmate - all ended happily at time of printing :D

You can read the Reddit thread here: https://www.reddit.com/r/SuddenlyGay/...

Leslie McAdam's version is super sweet and involves one of my favourite characters in the whole expanded World of True North - Murph, who works behind the bar at V&V and who is Reeve's best friend from Marley Valentine's Unforgettable

Murph is out and proud, he's a ray of sunshine with all the sass, but he's also vulnerable and hiding deep hurt.

When he becomes Jason's flatmate there is an instant connection between the two, but Jason's straight, right?

What I loved most about the narrative is the friendship - irrespective of any attraction from either side - that the men genuinely have between them. They are ridiculous sweet and so good for each other, encouraging the best and putting forward new possibilities for a different future.

Jason is stuck in a job working with his father, he's spent his whole life repressing anything which doesn't fit into the conservative worldview of his dad and he's still looking for his approval.

He has a hook-up for sex but he's never desired anything more than that. He's still smarting over his mum leaving years before and is vulnerable to pressure from outside opinions.

Murph's vulnerabilities are all internal. He left Vegas and a toxic relationship where he was forced to hide and pretend he wasn't involved with his boyfriend while he met women and behaved as if he was a single man. It's made Murph feel he's not worthy of love.

Jason's sister Becky provides a wonderful sounding block for him to re-examine his earlier years and wake him up to the fact he's jealous. Jason begins to understand he's actually bisexual and has been attracted to men before.

Their slow build-up into an actual relationship, both emotional and physical, is super sweet, and quite steamy at times. It's not all plain sailing of course, Jason's hook-up causes problems, his dad is an ar$e and Murph runs.

There is a bit of drama before they both accept that they are deserving of the other, and it's that which took my rating down a star.

I can't be doing with self-sabotaging and it's definitely a me thing, as I know it's quite realistic, I just don't particularly care to read it when it comes down to what essentially works out as woe is me type posturing.

For Murph, he needed to get over his martyrdom tendencies and bestie Reeve is on hand to hold a less than shiney mirror up for him to finally face his fears.

Jason is absolutely committed to making Murph his and he does it in spectacular fashion. I loved how he was so willing to embrace his new reality once he'd woken up to the fact he was in love with Murph and that he wanted to make changes elsewhere in his life too.

My only other comment would be that both Murph and Jason read as older (23 and 26 accordingly). Not that it's necessarily a problem per se, but if their ages hadn't been mentioned, I'd have put both much closer to their 30s simply because of their behaviour.

Ultimately, all's well, and there is a lovely Epilogue which firmly seals these two together and brings a happy ending to the series.

#ARC kindly received from the publishers Heart Eyes Press in return for an honest and unbiased review

[D.L. Howe · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
🎧🎧🎧

When I saw the narrators (Tim Paige & Iggy Toma) I was intrigued. After I read the blurb, I was sold. And Murph and Jason certainly lived up to my expectations.

I loved that Murph had absolutely no fucks to give. He was who he was and he didn’t care who had a problem with him. Or did he?

What we slowly discover about this fabulously flamboyant man is that his persona, while it was true to himself, it’s also a shield. Unfortunately I think most men in his shoes have to build a thick skin.

As for Jason, he was adorably clueless but open minded. Which god bless him, was the best he could do while being stifled by his overbearing father. This story ended up being the biggest awakening in a bi-awakening book I’ve ever read. And I was rooting for him every step of the way.

And once he knew, he definitely knew and no one was gonna tell him otherwise. Not even the man he’d fallen head over heels in love with.

Murphy’s reasoning for them taking a break makes absolutely no sense. Jason already proved all of his fears and doubts, he even sacrificed his life and Murph still doesn’t believe in him?! Fuck that!!

Sorry, not sorry but that little twist irritated me to no end. Thank goodness for Reeve and Jason who were sturdy voices of reason. No matter how Murph tried to destroy his own happiness.

Overall it was a cute story driven by adorable characters.

[Bri · Rating 4 out of 5]

NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK

Undone was a book that had me smiling like a loon almost the entire time I was reading. Murph and Jason had the cutest friendship and it was amazing to see how it progressed to more. Especially with the added angst from Jason being unsure of his feelings for Murph. These are two characters that could intrigue you all by themselves, but together they bring a sweetness to the story that makes you feel like you've truly immersed yourself into the world with them. And it made for a really fun read to see how their two different characters blended together.

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Rin (indefinite hiatus) · Rating 1 out of 5]

Oh hey look another problematic book full of gay stereotypes and really gross language. 😑😑

[✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murph + Jason

We already met Murph as Reeve's BFF and roommate two books ago and since Reeve fell in love, Murph needs a new place to live.
Enter Jason. He's a life insurance salesman who rents out a room in his house.
Jason doesn't love his job, but he's good at it and it's family tradition.
Jason is also not gay.
But he's so very intrigued by his happy and glittering new roommate.

LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN! ☺

═════════════════




Adorable!!
I was so looking forward to Murph's story! He's so funny and colorful. And male - so he's kinda the total opposite of what Jason would / should find attractive. Right?!
Just adorable those two. I loved reading their story!
It was so sweet and a bit heartbreaking and so sparky and sexy. Great love story!

And as I mentioned in every one of my World of True North reviews - I could read these kinds of books every day for the rest of eternity!

I also wouldn't mind seeing this whole world on Netflix one day!

UNDONE was an adorable + funny + sparky + sexy M/M love story! I loved reading it! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Murph + Jason - they'll be sold out in no time!


💜 💜

[Carmen Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, I keep telling everyone how much I love this whole True North world and seriously the books just keep making me repeat myself. The whole thing is awesome. We get the True North world and all of their places and some of their people. Then we get these great new characters mixed in with some returning faces and beautiful new stories. And no matter your genre there’s a book for you because it has it all. Plus it comes from the brain of the amazing Sarina Bowen. I feel like a total fangirl every time I try to write a review for any of these books, even when they don’t work for me.

This one however nailed it for me. Yeah, MM is a genre I love yet rarely read cause I’m weird like that so every single V&V book that sounds good I immediately jump on and I just kept coming back to this one. And thank god for that because, Murph. Murph was just rainbows and gumdrops and so sweet even a straight guy wanted to put him in his mouth 😉 Everything about Murph makes you want to call dibs on being his BFF. He was sweet and caring and fun and confident and just so happy to be himself and love the people around him and in turn you immediately loved him.

Jason started off a little bit quiet and reserved and I wasn’t sure how he was going to go from being straight laced to being with Murph. Not that there was any reason he shouldn’t be with Murph but there was a lot of space between where he started and who he ended up being in a way that he needed to look into his thoughts and beliefs of who he was. And he was a great guy to begin with. He just thought he needed to be who his Dad wanted him to be.

The character development was perfect and watching these guys go from roommates to a couple was a really natural, comfortable progression. And when they started to move forward and everything was happy and smooth sailing around the 60% mark my mind went off on a million tangents. And I was wrong on every single thing I guessed. The whole story was just gooey goodness and I couldn’t get enough of it.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murph and Jason were super fun to write!

I wanted to write a bisexual awakening book that had no miscommunication between the leads, although Jason miscommunicates with himself about his sexuality. It meant a lot to me to have a book where the characters talked out everything … but they still had conflicts to deal with.

Truth? I have a crush on Murph. I think I have a thing for funny, vivacious twinks. And Jason is just so, so yummy. I can see why Murph has a crush on him.

I also tried to include as many characters in the True North world as I could, so that readers can see a lot of familiar friends. I’m grateful for the other authors for their help.

I honestly can’t wait until more people read this so I can have someone to talk to about it!

[ML · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ugh

I wanted to like this book because MURPH! But sadly it was way too long, way too boring and had so much soft bigotry in it I was mostly annoyed as I read it.

I’m almost done and I remember why I never read MF anymore. The woman villain. Ugh,seriously Marnie. AND using the trope that he was tricked into being with men. Can you throw anymore bisexual stereotypes into one book. TERRIBLE.
ALSO..The fact that Jason needed to prove his gayness to Murph is also super cringy.

This book was not good. By the end, I wasn’t even sure I wanted an HEA for Murph. It was all so UGH.

[Reem · Rating 2 out of 5]

This read as a self help book, very preachy, which was disappointing because I liked Murph. Also, slang and acronyms in narrative is very annoying.

[Denise H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The man in the grey flannel suit, and the flamboyant fellow....
Opposites attract in Vermont. This is a special self discovery tale.
New roomies, Jason and Murph, where Jason owns the Victorian home, and he rents rooms, and Murph was found for him by his sister. The two get along right away.
Clueless Jason, 27, is an insurance man in his

Dad's business, plus he's handsome, tall and muscled, green-eyed, with blonde/brown/red hair, and has a FWB, friend with benefits, Marnie, and a glassworks hobby.
Fun Murph, is a sweet lively gay man, he's slim,

blue eyes and dark hair, who wears lipstick and eye makeup, while he works at V and V, and is a website builder. He's been burned by an ex.

Jason is protective of all folks, cooks for Murph, and they look around the town. When Murph has a few dates, it's Jason that ruins each one. It takes him awhile to figure out why.



We learn a lot about each guy and they get along well. They share many likes. Jason is learning what it means to be a gay man and it's bringing forward awakening thoughts, realizing his thought had been there before, but he was oblivious.



Jason has issues with his strict Dad, never standing up for himself, and has low self worth.
Murph is strength, outgoing and confident, and helps Jason see confidence in himself.
The feelings they get are mutual, but the two constantly second guess where their relationship is concerned.

So, we watch the back and forth, the first kiss, and later the hot, sexy times. Jason isn't afraid, but Murph is leery of being pushy.



There are some misunderstandings, good characters, and intense thoughts, a bit long.
Well written, interesting, deep topics, lots of passion, and heartwarming scenes.
ENJOY !

=====

[alyssa · Rating 3 out of 5]

based on the above Reddit story that's actually super adorable but also had my expectations sky high to the detriment of my enjoyment. the general premise instantly captured my attention, though the execution left me wanting angles that we didn't get. (on a side note, this also felt vaguely similar to Unforgettable which i'd just finished with the bit about parental expectations and feeling unworthy of love due to trauma from an ex.)

Jason is the supposed "straight guy" who finds himself inadvertently sabotaging Murph's dates because of the green-eyed monster within. at the start, he's so clueless and it honestly felt like he saw gay people as a whole 'nother species LOL but you can't get angry at him just like you can't get angry at a kid for not knowing better since they've never been exposed to said thing before.

i think his character growth is worth noting, starting from a people pleaser who rarely makes his own decisions to proactively reaching out to his former fwb, father, and Murph (even when he goes off being a dumdum) to show that he's not ashamed and will do whatever makes him happy (hell yeah!).

the story stayed around 3.5* until the 80% mark where it's a drama llama palooza. here we go againnnnn:

⚠️ beware!! spoilers ahead!! ⚠️
.
.
.



- turning Marnie (Jason's fwb who has apparently been secretly in love with him this entire time 'cause the more drama the better ) into this vindictive jerk who's salty af that Jason chooses someone else (and a man, no less *gasps*) over her. DELUSIONAL I TELL YOU! when female characters are introduced only to be used as a pot stirring plot device 😌

- an *extremely* conveniently timed call from the closet homophobe of an ex that pushes Murph over the edge

- Murph's self-sabotage --> pushing Jason away: i get wanting time apart to think, that's totally fine, yet did it have to follow something so dramatic 😩 i'd like to know beforehand if this same formula is going to be used in a book because i need a break 😂 为什么总是没事给自己找事，这样的故事让我感到好累哈哈

- Murph's scared that Jason will change his mind about liking him, that it's only a phase because he's accepted this new side of himself far too easily. so Jason decides to write out a list of instances in his past that he now realizes are examples of him being not so straight (like getting off while watching male underwear ads). while i can understand his reasoning, it also came across like he had to prove he was bi enough for Murph? idk.

- the stereotypes that his sister mentioned too as if an organized & clean house = gay??? umm if anyone leaves a mess, that's just poor discipline on their part 🤣🤣

- the conflict with Jason's father could've been expanded and used as a catalyst for all the above but instead he fell by the wayside and pops up at the end for a tentative but relatively smooth resolution of sorts.


.
.
.
⚠️ end of spoilers ⚠️

in summary, the drama at the end there threw everything off-kilter, but the premise was undeniably cute! give it a go yourself and let me know what you think 👀

[Bekka · Rating 1 out of 5]

I would not have continued reading this if
- there hadn't already been loads of common misconceptions at the beginning of which I wondered how they'd be addressed and
- if I hadn't read "Glenn. 1981. Gay Fantasies in Gay Publications" in the meantime.
- this Reddit post explains everything perfectly: https://www.reddit.com/r/MM_RomanceBo...

Glenn's essay features an analysis of "short fiction stories that appeared in nationally distributed publications targeted for a primarily gay male audience during the years 1970 and 1979-80." (Glenn 1981, 104).
He worked out the following fantasies that were commonly depicted (Bold/Italic didn't work as it should >.< Fantasies are numerated).

My biggest problem with this book is it TRYS to debunk stereotypes while perpetrating them.

Romance
“idealized love that is faithful and pure” (Glenn 1981, 105)

“As we talk about the different options, the thing that strikes me is how comfortable these guys are with each other. One will casually put a hand on the other’s knee. They’ll laugh at a shared experience. And I have a lump in my throat because, for the first time in my life, I want this. A relationship. Someone to share my life with.” (McAdam 2021, 136)

“romantic central characters are pictured as fighters against the outrages of injustice” (Glenn 1981, 105)

“People like you look down on him because he’s feminine, but that’s what makes him a fucking warrior.” (McAdam 2021, 268)


1. “Being gay is being different” (Glenn 1981, 105)

“Murph was born to stand out, though.” (McAdam 2021, 18)


2. “Being gay is socially difficult” (Glenn 1981, 106)

“I can see how him being in your face with his gayness would spook straight guys who aren’t secure in his sexuality.” (McAdam 2021, 18)

“People like you look down on him because he’s feminine, but that’s what makes him a fucking warrior.” (McAdam 2021, 268)


3. “Being gay requires one to excel in any endeavor according the standards of excellence established by society” (Glenn 1981, 106)

“And who am I? Just a scrawny bartender.” I roll my eyes. “Some prize.” (McAdam 2021, 250-251)


4. “One can be gay and still be masculine” (Glenn 1981, 107)

One can be straight and still be feminine? Apparently not:

“For a heterosexual male, Jason does plenty of stuff that’s traditionally feminine, and I don’t know if he even realizes it. He’s a mother hen who cooks and cleans–not that those are exclusively female traits by any means.” (McAdam 2021, 106)


5. “Gay men are everywhere”

“Ever since that wine bar opened, I’m seeing a lot more gay and lesbian and whoever people holding hands in town. And not only on Church Street. I kind of like it. The world's changing. People are able to be more themselves.”
“Hmm,” she says.
“Never something I paid much attention to. But I guess with a roommate who is out and proud, I’m getting my horizons expanded even more…”
(McAdam 2021, 55)

6. “To be happy and gay requires love in a committed relationship”

“Will you marry me? Spend the rest of your life with me? (McAdam 2021, 302)

7. “Gay is good”

“You’re not so bad yourself.”
“Oh no, I’m extraordinary.” (McAdam 2021, 25)
(Glenn 1981, 108)

“In choosing homosexuality over heterosexuality the gay male, in the romantic vision, is pictured as a dark horse racing against oppression, prejudice, and provincial mentality.”

We see this in Jason’s battle against heterosexist expectations.

“I’m stating facts, Jason. You’re at the age where you should be settling down.”
“I am settled down. I own a house. I work. I eat right and exercise properly,”… (McAdam 2021, 43)

“And that man wants to have sex with other men?” He rolls his eyes. “Modern society’s gotten out of hand.”
“This has nothing to do with society. This has to do with who I’m choosing to spend my time with.”
“With some fairy? Hs’s trapped you.”
(McAdam 2021, 253)

“I haven’t been straight this entire time. I just assumed I was, because I never thought I’d be anything else.”
(McAdam 2021, 273)

“A romantic conception of gay males and their relationships constitutes the controlling vision of the early 70s. The vision differs radically from the vision of the late 70s and early 80s. For the end of the decade is characterized by the vision of carnal virility.” (Glenn 1981, 109-110)

Carnal Virility

“For one to be described with the phrase carnal virility implies that one is supermale, concerned with intensive sexual exploration.”

“I do like my prostate massager-“
I raise my eyebrows. “You have one?”
“Yeah. Like I said, I’ve always been sexually open.” (McAdam 2021, 195)

8. “Gay males are obsessed with physical appearance”

“So I’m not as straight as I thought?”
“Seriously? You haven’t picked up on the clues before?
She’s shocked me again. “What clues?”
Becky rolls her eyes. “You keep yourself exceptionally well groomed with artfully messy hair, and your house is incredibly clean.”
“Those things don’t make someone gay,” I sputter, but she holds up a hand. (McAdam 2021, 151)

And more importantly: straight males are obsessed with the appearance of gay men

“I hear ugly sniggers, and I know they’re directed at Murph. One of them says, “Oh my god, check out this princess. Bet he takes it up the ass.” (McAdam 2021, 120)

9. “Gay males are sensuously, not romantically, oriented”

“I guess my views on sex are typical–at least for your standard gay man. I don’t equate sex and love. Sex is just biological.” (McAdam 2021, 140)

10. “Gay males are powerful sex machines” (Glenn 1981, 110)

“As with any machine, performance becomes a measure of quality, and according to this fantasy, the number of sexual encounters becomes a measure of one’s worth.” (Glenn 1981, 110-111)

“He’s always been super flirty.” (McAdam 2021, 83)

Jason has seen a lot of guys with his gay roommate lately and jumps to this conclusion:

“But the next time a stranger’s in my living room, I don’t think he’s only Murph’s friend.” (McAdam 2021, 115)

11. “Gay males are free and independent, shunning commitments” (Glenn 1981, 111)

“…I’m trying to figure out if two guys with commitment issues–because hello, we both only did casual…” (McAdam 2021, 232)

12. “the chase or the game of conquest becomes second in importance only to sexual release” (Glenn 1981, 111)

“I’m not scared he’s going to put the moves on me or anything. Obviously. Since he knows I’m straight. […] Shit, maybe I should be clear with him. So he doesn’t think there’s any chance– Jesus, Jason. Not everyone wants to bang you.” (McAdam 2021, 17)

“That’s how I got Dirk to be with me. Flirted with him until he finally gave in.” (McAdam 2021, 232)

“Therefore, I need to cast out a line again, hoping to reel in a real fish. Not literally. In this case, “real fish” means “gay man, preferable very sexy and fun.”
I pull out my phone and scroll. Now what am I in the mood for?” (McAdam 2021, 78)

13. “Gay males consider straight men to be in need of enlightenment”

“I could see if he responds–“
“Let me ask you something. Does Jason respect the fact that you’re gay?”
I sigh. “Yes.”
“Are you respecting the fact that he might not be?”
I kick the ground. “Not so much.”
(McAdam 2021, 52)

“dehumanizing aspects to this vision [of Carnal Virality moving into the foreground of topics]; sexual exploration and gratification become substitutes for romance, and very love becomes an evening of necessary passion.”

Implications

“the fantasies of gay males underwent a major change during the past decade.”

- abandoning of heterosexual model of relationship formation

and returning to it critically:

“…if I had someone to love? I’d want to give him everything. That might be a very heterosexual notion, but sue me.” (McAdam 2021, 140)

- abandoning negative stigma of homosexuality and being gay

Still working on this.

“the 70s […] can be viewed perhaps as a setup for the 80s” (Glenn 1981, 112)

“Does the reality of the gay community create and maintain fantasy, or does the fantasy of the gay community create and maintain the reality?”
(Glenn 1981, 113)

In this case this book, which is fantasy as it is fiction is maintaining the reality of these stereotypes that were created in the past.

Here's a few moments of hardcore stereotyping that pissed me off, because making the first statement does not excuse the latter ones imo.

Stereotyping:
“I have all these issues with stereotypes. I love them and hate them. I am them, and I’m not them. I love it when I can find my people–people who understand what it’s like to be me. But I hate it when it seems as if the stereotype is all there is.”
(McAdam 2021, 105)

“So I’m not as straight as I thought?”
“Seriously? You haven’t picked up on the clues before?
She’s shocked me again. “What clues?”
Becky rolls her eyes. “You keep yourself exceptionally well groomed with artfully messy hair, and your house is incredibly clean.”
“Those things don’t make someone gay,” I sputter, but she holds up a hand.
“When we watch baseball games, you’re watching the players’ asses. Football, too. I’ve seen you completely ignore women to talk with guys about who knows what.”
[…]
“And we’re not going to talk about how you listen to Broadway musicals in the car. You know all the words to Moulin Rouge! Or the fact that you secretly buy women’s clothes for men.” (McAdam 2021, 151)

“So I sit across from him and tell him every memory I have that now, looking on it, was a clue to my sexuality. I end with, “I watched Lady Gaga’s half-time show on repeat. And sang along.” (McAdam 2021, 273)


And I hated the ex friends with benefits situation :)

NSFW infos:
- out gay guy, feminine looks (in theory vers)
- guy who thought he was straight and learns he is bisexual (in theory interested in bottoming)
but in practice we have the straight guy topping first and majority-wise.

[JonathanSamuelReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so fucking good and so sweet! I got this on a freebie the other day and the audio was available on my hoopla so I borrowed it!

I haven’t read this author but the pacing and the character development was so well done I’m immediately looking for more books by them!!

In short: A very flamboyant gay man moves in with “straight” man. Turns out the “straight” guy wasn’t straight after all. I thought it was funny how Murph kept trying to date and bring guys back to their shared apartment and the straight guy wasn’t having it!

“It’s not weird to think he’s adorable right? I mean, anyone would. You could put him in your pocket.”

ALSO THE CARETAKING! Go read this book divas 🫡

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another #win from my binge-read of the last 5 books in this series is going straight to Murph’s story after meeting him in Unforgettable by Marley Valentine!!

I am so super stoked with the choices Leslie made with this story especially developing Murph and Jason as friends before more. It added a layer of swoon and #feels for me that just made my heart want to burst! Their friendship was amazing and made for some truly funny scenes between them. The progression of the journey was mature, and I could feel the awakening aspect in the story. I wasn’t just reading this one, I felt like I was in it. It drew me in, and I loved it. I loved them. I loved all of it!

I’ve never gone thru the type of journey portrayed in this story myself, but when I read the story, I knew it was realistic and relatable. Don’t ask me to pin-point for you the when/where/who of it all because I don’t do that, but you’re going to have to trust me on this. The story was also inclusive of characters other than those specific to this book and that made it even more enjoyable for me because I’ve met them all!

I couldn’t have asked for a better ending to my binge-read. Undone mirrored 4th of July fireworks at the end of a 4th of July get together with family and friends for me. It made me *happy sigh* and put a smile on my face!

[Dani · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ughhhh this book somehow dragged but also barely anything happened?! Murph just annoyed me after 70% and Jason went from commitmentphobe to full on sappy romantic in like ten pages???

Also as much as I've enjoyed this series, I really wish there was more consistency with mentioning earlier characters between the books.

Finally Rainn is no longer working at the bar (there must have been much longer than a year between books 3 and 18 but this was the first time it was acknowledged Rainn had gone to coach)

Whyyyyy is Auden still working at the bar?? He was 9 books ago and had his own business with Carter (poor guy never gets a name drop) and I'm certain a book in-between the two said he no longer worked there.

Why are peoples partners never named? It's not a spoiler because it's in the book blurb! I feel bad for Jamie, Carter and Whit especially, they're always forgotten!! Plus Kolby just disappeared??

Overall I enjoyed the series but when you binge read an entire series like myself, the inconsistencies are really noticeable, and out of character behaviour is just frustrating 🤷🏼‍♀️

[Book Binge: Reviews by Melissa DaSilva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this story! I’m a huge fan of this V&V series and I’m slowly making my way through all the books! This one is definitely one of my top favs of this series. It’s definitely a slow-burn, pining situation but oh it was done so well!

Jason and Murph are complete opposites. Jason is super manly and straight and Murph is not and I loved their dynamic sooooo much! It was so fun to see Jason slowly discovering that he’s really not all that straight. However, it does get hard at times as Jason doesn’t understand his jealousy.

Murph was so much fun and I really loved that for the most part he wasn’t afraid to be himself. I definitely understood his thoughts and fears regarding his relationship with Jason and I’m so happy that they were able to work it out. Their HEA was wonderful!!

To be honest I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to read it after reading the first chapter. It starts off right after an MF sex scene (nothing on page) and the MC is a real asshole in that first chapter. But I understood him more as I read in and there were no more MF scenes so it was no issue at all.

If you enjoy this series, whether you’ve read this author or not I highly recommend this story! I loved it so much and will definitely listen again on audio when I have the chance!

[NicoleR.M.M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5 stars
With his sweet, low angst book the Vino & Veritas series comes to an end. Though I still have a couple of them on my TBR, so technically I'm not there yet, but this book is indeed the last one in a series I really enjoyed. I'm going to miss all these familiar faces and the vibe of Vermont!

This book gives us Murph and Jason, and since Murph is in need of a new place to stay and Jason has a room for rent, they end up together in the same house. Murph immediately falls for Jason, who's not only handsome and attractive, but also caring, and he enjoys to cook and look out after Murph. So much that he has a hard time dealing with every potential hookup Murph takes home.
When his sister tells him he might be jealous, he thinks it's ridiculous, until he starts to analyze his actions and feelings, and after that he can only come to the conclusion that he indeed wants to keep Murph all to himself. But that's confusing, because he always thought he was straight.

I enjoyed reading about their friendship that grew into more. I loved how Jason took care of Murph, how he started to question his sexuality, as well as his dependency on his father and sister.
Murph was this flamboyant, sparkling twink, who had all these insecurities hiding, despite the fact that outwardly he seemed to be the kind of guy who was out and proud and didn't really care what other people thought. But he cares about Jason, and he doesn't want to be his experiment, because he already knows he is going to get hurt if he does.
I wasn't sure about the insta-love here. I sensed a bit of that happening, but then I dismissed that because it also felt just like an insta-attraction. I guess it was a bit of both, which was fine, since i don't like insta-love at all. Still, I do think it all happened fairly quickly.

All in all, though, this was an enjoyable, low angst and at times funny read. I think Jason and Murph made a great couple together!
This was my first book by Leslie McAdam, but I really liked her writing, so if she'll be writing more mm romance, this won't be my last one.

ARC kindly provided by the publisher, Heart Eyes Press, and this is my honest, unbiased review

[ItaPixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Undone was a good read.

Jason has a new flatmate, Murph, he finds him cute and they have a lot of interests in common. Day after day Jason grows fonder of his new friend and he begins to see Murph differently, but he is straight, right? Murph is instantly attracted to his new landlord but he knows that is dangerous to fall in love with a straight man but that doesn’t forbid him being a flirt. Will there be heartbreak in their future or an happy ending? Find it out reading this story.

I liked Murph since the beginning, he is exuberant and unashamedly himself, on the contrary I did need more time to like Jason because he is too indecisive and he isn’t in charge of his life for most of the book, but I liked his nurturing and sweet side.

Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

This exceptional M/M romance features the effervescent, ever loveable, Davey Murphy (“Murph”) improbably falling head over heels for his (not really, well maybe) straight, beautiful landlord and roommate, Jason Falkner. If you’ve been reading the whole V&V series, you may remember Murph as Reeve’s BFF from Book 16, When the story begins, Murph is moving into Jason’s home where he will share the top floor apartment with Jason, who he already thinks of as “Handsome McHandsomer”, and “Mr. Hottie McHotterson”. Murph has adorable and hysterical nicknames for Jason, who he also describes as “a total snack”, then upgrades him to “grade A steak” status. Jason is a kind, generous, solid, dependable, and a very lonely...that is until he met Murph. Jason’s a simple, straightforward guy that hasn’t been very invested in his own life. His father rules most of his decisions and the #1 thing that Dad keeps harping about is for Jason to get married and produce house full of grandchildren...but only with a woman...and with one that Daddy approves of. I hate those type of parents!!! Jason is shades of grey to Murph’s vibrant, colorful personality and outlook on life. While Jason doesn’t prevaricate and would never intentionally hurt someone, he’s also oblivious, with a total lack of self-awareness. Murph and Jason seemingly have nothing in common, but they actually fit like a hand in glove. Despite appearances, they actually have a lot of shared interests and enjoy the same activities...like watching Forged in Fire and pretending it’s for the weapons, not the brawny, built, tattooed men wielding those weapons. They bring out the best in each other. Jason sees Murph as rainbows, sunshine, and light. Unapologetically himself and someone Jason would like to emulate if only he could figure out how. Murph and Jason’s romance when it finally happens is absolutely beautiful in every respect. Suffice it to say it’s full of heart, energy, and adoration mixed with some doubt, trepidation, and lots and lots of questions. These two men...they are what Undone is all about. Ms. McAdam expertly crafts their complex characters in a way that is so authentic and real. Leslie McAdam masterfully explores this dynamic as part of a colorful, emotional romantic journey between two men who you can’t help but fall for.

[Elle Golden · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book!

I need more stars to give, because 5 aren't enough.

Since I started this book, I just couldn't put it down. The characters were so complex, full of personality and completely enticing.
Along the whole book, I felt embraced in a warm cocoon, my heart was warm and cozy and all I could do was smile.
It was like this book was hugging me and making me feel loved.

Jason and Murph captivated me entirely.
Murph was colorful and so full of life. Whenever he was around, there was this lightness in the story that only he could bring. He was confident and loved himself enought to be true to himself, and that was addicting and inspiring. Yet, he was vulnerable and craving for the kind of love he could barely dream about having.
Jason was solid and steady. He was adorable, respectful, always working himself to be a better person. He exuded calm and made people around him feel safe. Yet, albeit unbeknownst to him, he still needed to find his true identity.
These are only some of the many, many reasons they were so perfect for each other.

As they navigated through their friendship and it started to become so much more, they started to learn what true love and respect were, what devotion and a healthy relationship should be like.
It wasn't one-sided. They grew together, they supported each other unconditionally, they inspired the best in one another. They both learned from and tought each other like only true partners can do.
The way they blossomed side by side was a sight to behold.

They loved and cared for each other effortlessly and were willing to face whatever may come in their way, for they were stronger together, because they were honest in their feelings and true to themselves.

And man, were they sexy. This book would go from adorable to scorching hot in a few sentences and I loved every minute of it.

I want more pages. I want more Murph and Jason. I just want more.

[Meegz Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

*5 Stars*

ARC kindly received for an honest review.

I absolutely adored this book and I devoured it. Murph was an interesting character in Unforgettable (by Marley Valentine, a previous book in this series), and I was keen to get to know him in this book, his own story.

I was not let down. He was such an adorable and loveable character, and I also really liked Jason. I love roommates and friends to lovers books, and this was kind of a mix of both, although mostly on the roommates side. I really liked getting to know these two characters together, and I just loved everything about their story.

Highly recommend, this book was so much fun and easy to love!

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[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well that was just so sweet!! Murph and Jason just melted my heart. Out of the whole series Murph was a stand out, awesome character. A beautiful human who thankfully found an absolute gem in Jason!!Loved it!! ❤️

Needed a cheer up. It’s been a terrible few weeks. Love stories always make me happy. So, I re-read (because I knew it would make me smile) and wow, I just love Murph! Jason, is one of the sweetest characters I’ve read!! Jason + Murph, perfection! ❤️

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite universes, and it's fun to see one of my favorite authors playing in the pool!

Murph and Jason are a lot of fun, and Murph needs to come be my friend - stat. True to the world they're in, Jason's realization that Murph is more than a friend, and his standing up to...well, read it and find out. I'd like to see more of these two!!