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Pierre & Bill #1
Pierre & Bill: A Love Story
Pierre and Bill have been together for over twenty years, ever since Bill was five. Thrown together by tragedy, they stayed together despite the many attempts to tear them apart. Some thought it wrong that a stranger should raise a child, especially when that stranger was gay. Especially, too, when the child also grows up to be gay. But Pierre and Bill would win that fight and go on to develop a unique and special bond.
Now many years later, they’re facing a different kind of crisis. The specter of workplace abuse and financial insecurity threaten their future. When Danny shows up their lives get even more complicated, but it’s Liam’s arrival that turns their world upside down. Liam comes with Ruthie, and he has a problem of his own.
Love takes center stage. Whether as parents, children, lovers, rivals or friends, everyone wants love, fears losing it, and struggles to make room for more.
A sequel, (Pierre & Bill Now ) and a prequel, (Pierre Before Bill), are now available.
Now many years later, they’re facing a different kind of crisis. The specter of workplace abuse and financial insecurity threaten their future. When Danny shows up their lives get even more complicated, but it’s Liam’s arrival that turns their world upside down. Liam comes with Ruthie, and he has a problem of his own.
Love takes center stage. Whether as parents, children, lovers, rivals or friends, everyone wants love, fears losing it, and struggles to make room for more.
A sequel, (Pierre & Bill Now ) and a prequel, (Pierre Before Bill), are now available.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2021
2 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Patrick Doyle
9 books182 followersWhen I was a kid reading opened all the doors. There was a world out there and I wanted in. When I stumbled across Jean Genet (my review of Our Lady of the Flowers pretty much sums up my childhood), it was like being beamed up to another world. I was too young to understand how 'indecent' it was. But I knew it was for me.
By the time I discovered writers like Armistead Maupin and Edmund White, I knew I'd arrived. I read and read until one day I wrote. It was like writing came to me. I feel that even now. Writing is like being possessed, happily possessed (well, most of the time).
I've written nine books: a series of loosely related mysteries (Jordi's Day, Tony's Dream, Beau's Dilemma) that follow the adventures of a stranger in a strange land, and the Pierre & Bill trilogy (Pierre & Bill: A Love Story, Pierre & Bill Now, Pierre Before Bill), that tells the story of an unusual couple along with their friends, lovers and kids. Along the way, I've written another mystery (Van Alone) and a fantasy/sc-fi (Seeing Sean). Both are stories about secrets, but not the same kind.
My latest, Catching Hanif's Eye, is a story about two very different men who find themselves trapped in a web of deceit where only trust can save them. Like all my books, it contains elements of romance, sometimes love, along with wit, sex and adventure.
My goal is to write stories about lives that, while entirely fictional, are rooted in some kind of reality. My characters are imperfect. They make mistakes. Some can be hard to like. Until we find out why. They have problems. They have pasts. Some hide it well and some don't. But they all have one thing in common. They want more out of life. Just like I did. Which brought me here.
I live in Montreal with my partner and not far away from the child we raised. I live in French, write in English, and work in both. I try to bring that experience to my novels. All my protagonists are faced with the challenge and excitement of loving someone from another world. I’ve been there. It’s worth the trip.
[Photo: me getting my just deserts]
By the time I discovered writers like Armistead Maupin and Edmund White, I knew I'd arrived. I read and read until one day I wrote. It was like writing came to me. I feel that even now. Writing is like being possessed, happily possessed (well, most of the time).
I've written nine books: a series of loosely related mysteries (Jordi's Day, Tony's Dream, Beau's Dilemma) that follow the adventures of a stranger in a strange land, and the Pierre & Bill trilogy (Pierre & Bill: A Love Story, Pierre & Bill Now, Pierre Before Bill), that tells the story of an unusual couple along with their friends, lovers and kids. Along the way, I've written another mystery (Van Alone) and a fantasy/sc-fi (Seeing Sean). Both are stories about secrets, but not the same kind.
My latest, Catching Hanif's Eye, is a story about two very different men who find themselves trapped in a web of deceit where only trust can save them. Like all my books, it contains elements of romance, sometimes love, along with wit, sex and adventure.
My goal is to write stories about lives that, while entirely fictional, are rooted in some kind of reality. My characters are imperfect. They make mistakes. Some can be hard to like. Until we find out why. They have problems. They have pasts. Some hide it well and some don't. But they all have one thing in common. They want more out of life. Just like I did. Which brought me here.
I live in Montreal with my partner and not far away from the child we raised. I live in French, write in English, and work in both. I try to bring that experience to my novels. All my protagonists are faced with the challenge and excitement of loving someone from another world. I’ve been there. It’s worth the trip.
[Photo: me getting my just deserts]
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 26, 2024
It might have been meant to be, perhaps it's just coincidence, but I've read this book at a time I feel a very substantial part of my life is kind of falling apart.
In any case, I really enjoyed reading the first part of this duology in which Pierre and Bill are nothing else but family. Despite the circumstances that brought them together and also that both of them are gay, they stood up for one another and Pierre became the family Bill needed when his father passed away, they have built such a strong bond that the mere idea of having it changed has messed up with Bill's mind.
Pierre is 65 and Bill is in his early 30s, but they really haven't lived a life of their own. Would the life they have lived be enough to make them feel fulfilled as individuals? The only possible way for them to find out is by embracing change, but...are they both prepared for it? By getting deeper into Pierre and Bill's world you'll be able to discover it yourself.
In any case, I really enjoyed reading the first part of this duology in which Pierre and Bill are nothing else but family. Despite the circumstances that brought them together and also that both of them are gay, they stood up for one another and Pierre became the family Bill needed when his father passed away, they have built such a strong bond that the mere idea of having it changed has messed up with Bill's mind.
Pierre is 65 and Bill is in his early 30s, but they really haven't lived a life of their own. Would the life they have lived be enough to make them feel fulfilled as individuals? The only possible way for them to find out is by embracing change, but...are they both prepared for it? By getting deeper into Pierre and Bill's world you'll be able to discover it yourself.
September 20, 2025
Magnificent!!!
It wasn't what I was expecting, it was much better, fairly innovative, fascinating plot, very real, competently constructed, rich characters, all of them, the sex scenes were spectacular, really well written, I was savouring every page, undoubtedly satisfied with this book! Congratulations to Patrick Doyle for this master piece!
This book is a hidden gem and people should know about it!
I was about to read "Pierre & Bill Now" when I discovered it was a sequel, so I rushed to get the first one, and I'm glad I did it, I'm completely in love with the main characters, the story was so captivating, I laughed, I was moved, and gasping for air, definitely one of my favourites, it was great!!!
The art cover is squeezed, a very good choice, portraying one of the best moments!!
Going forward to the sequel right away!!!
6🌟
It wasn't what I was expecting, it was much better, fairly innovative, fascinating plot, very real, competently constructed, rich characters, all of them, the sex scenes were spectacular, really well written, I was savouring every page, undoubtedly satisfied with this book! Congratulations to Patrick Doyle for this master piece!
This book is a hidden gem and people should know about it!
I was about to read "Pierre & Bill Now" when I discovered it was a sequel, so I rushed to get the first one, and I'm glad I did it, I'm completely in love with the main characters, the story was so captivating, I laughed, I was moved, and gasping for air, definitely one of my favourites, it was great!!!
The art cover is squeezed, a very good choice, portraying one of the best moments!!
Going forward to the sequel right away!!!
6🌟
March 13, 2024
Three adults, a senior, and a child sharing a home, and most of them unrelated. What awaited them, he wondered? Living in the moment had never been his strength, but maybe, just maybe, he’d be too busy to think about anything else.
I honestly think that a gay novel like this, dealing as it does with verboten subjects (well, in the gay community anyway) like ageing and illness, would have been unthinkable even a few years ago. But ‘Pierre & Bill’ itself is a bit of an oddity as it straddles that porous boundary between gay fiction and M/M. It translates politely into there being a lot more sex than you might expect from your gay fiction (not to mention a blissful ignorance of gender politics, pronouns, and women characters in general).
This is not to trivialise Patrick Doyle’s achievement in this wonderful novel, which I was a tad sceptical to read due to that addendum to the title, ‘A Love Story’. Yes, it is, but thankfully not of the cloying, sentimental, nostalgic, unconsummated, or completely unrelatable kind that so often bedevils M/M fiction.
This is real life, warts-and-all. Which is not to suggest that ‘Pierre & Bill’ is a depressing read. The characters are so well rounded that the reader follows their journey and learns with them along the way. I do not want to divulge the bittersweet central axis around which the novel revolves, suffice it to reflect, in the words of Armistead Maupin, that it is about finding your true family and where you belong unconditionally.
The star of the book is the irrepressible Pierre, affectionately known as ‘Tonton’ (that is a whole other story). We initially encounter Pierre, accompanied by Bill, in a prostate clinic awaiting an appointment.
One cannot imagine an, er, larger affront to a gay man’s dignity than prostate trouble – especially for someone as opiniated, and yet quite private and insular, as Pierre. He might be the belle of the ball whether in a hospital room or at an intimate dinner at home, but we soon learn that Tonton has many layers. And not all of them are tulle. There is a lot of iron in there as well.
The book reminded me of another of my favourite writers, Stephen McAuley, who also leans towards the more confrontational ‘queer’ than the somewhat sanitised term ‘gay’ in today’s somewhat reactionary, and right-leaning, social, political, and sexual cultural milieu.
Both writers feature deeply flawed, yet deeply human, characters scarred by their own history, upbringing (and particular idiosyncrasies) but who stay true to the elemental spirit of love. Which is a living force animating the world as much as it is a gender or sexual preference.
It is clear that Tonton’s story is far from finished, or he just has a lot more to tell us, as Doyle has a sequel out called ‘Pierre & Bill Now’. Which is funny, as I can just hear Pierre disdainfully tell the author that the ‘now’ should be replaced with ‘In Decrepitude’. You go, Tonton. Live life to the last breath.
I honestly think that a gay novel like this, dealing as it does with verboten subjects (well, in the gay community anyway) like ageing and illness, would have been unthinkable even a few years ago. But ‘Pierre & Bill’ itself is a bit of an oddity as it straddles that porous boundary between gay fiction and M/M. It translates politely into there being a lot more sex than you might expect from your gay fiction (not to mention a blissful ignorance of gender politics, pronouns, and women characters in general).
This is not to trivialise Patrick Doyle’s achievement in this wonderful novel, which I was a tad sceptical to read due to that addendum to the title, ‘A Love Story’. Yes, it is, but thankfully not of the cloying, sentimental, nostalgic, unconsummated, or completely unrelatable kind that so often bedevils M/M fiction.
This is real life, warts-and-all. Which is not to suggest that ‘Pierre & Bill’ is a depressing read. The characters are so well rounded that the reader follows their journey and learns with them along the way. I do not want to divulge the bittersweet central axis around which the novel revolves, suffice it to reflect, in the words of Armistead Maupin, that it is about finding your true family and where you belong unconditionally.
The star of the book is the irrepressible Pierre, affectionately known as ‘Tonton’ (that is a whole other story). We initially encounter Pierre, accompanied by Bill, in a prostate clinic awaiting an appointment.
One cannot imagine an, er, larger affront to a gay man’s dignity than prostate trouble – especially for someone as opiniated, and yet quite private and insular, as Pierre. He might be the belle of the ball whether in a hospital room or at an intimate dinner at home, but we soon learn that Tonton has many layers. And not all of them are tulle. There is a lot of iron in there as well.
The book reminded me of another of my favourite writers, Stephen McAuley, who also leans towards the more confrontational ‘queer’ than the somewhat sanitised term ‘gay’ in today’s somewhat reactionary, and right-leaning, social, political, and sexual cultural milieu.
Both writers feature deeply flawed, yet deeply human, characters scarred by their own history, upbringing (and particular idiosyncrasies) but who stay true to the elemental spirit of love. Which is a living force animating the world as much as it is a gender or sexual preference.
It is clear that Tonton’s story is far from finished, or he just has a lot more to tell us, as Doyle has a sequel out called ‘Pierre & Bill Now’. Which is funny, as I can just hear Pierre disdainfully tell the author that the ‘now’ should be replaced with ‘In Decrepitude’. You go, Tonton. Live life to the last breath.
December 5, 2023
Fans of this book will love to know Patrick Doyle has a sequel coming out for Pierre & Bill 💝
Pierre & Bill Now
A Love Story , oh my goodness, yes ! There are so many different kinds of love in Patrick Doyle’s new novel Pierre & Bill: A Love Story. Each relationship in this book will touch your heart, and rekindle memories of past connections - or possibly stir up a desire for ones you’d like to form. At least it did for me... and what could be better than that?
If your taste in literature leans toward something more unique, not your cookie cutter, same old formula, then you definitely need to check out Patrick Doyle. Every one of his stories feature distinctive protagonists, fascinating locales, and completely unpredictable storylines. And each of his novels has layers upon layers of intimacy, most especially in Pierre & Bill.
One of the most complex and interesting relationships for me to read about is between a parent and child. While on the surface, usually there’s formality and respect - and then, when we scratch below the surface, a wealth of emotions are revealed. While traditional borders exist between Bill and Pierre, there’s a special bond here that’s unique and fascinating.
Right from the outset of this story, a curious ambiguity is apparent in their interactions. Were they lovers, or are they simply family? How will the upcoming event affect their future? When they face this challenge, what changes will it cause in their relationship? And, as Patrick Doyle gradually reveals aspects of how their pasts are interconnected, this relationship continues to get more meaningful.
Well, it wouldn’t be a love story for me without romantic love, and (hopefully) a hearty dose of passion. Patrick Doyle writes wonderfully sensual love scenes, filled with scorching sex and plenty of emotion. There’s a raw and edgy element, which truly suits Bill’s character, adds depth, and reveals some interesting insight into this man’s past.
One of the things I appreciate most about Patrick Doyle’s writing is his use of vivid and wonderfully descriptive phrases. Whether it’s an exotic and picturesque locale, or someplace less than savory, you will surely feel like you’re right in the middle of it all.
With a quickly growing body of novels, Patrick Doyle continues to deliver the unexpected. I can’t even guess what he’ll bring us next, but whatever it is, I know I’m going to love it as much as I did Pierre & Bill: A Love Story!
Pierre & Bill Now
A Love Story , oh my goodness, yes ! There are so many different kinds of love in Patrick Doyle’s new novel Pierre & Bill: A Love Story. Each relationship in this book will touch your heart, and rekindle memories of past connections - or possibly stir up a desire for ones you’d like to form. At least it did for me... and what could be better than that?
If your taste in literature leans toward something more unique, not your cookie cutter, same old formula, then you definitely need to check out Patrick Doyle. Every one of his stories feature distinctive protagonists, fascinating locales, and completely unpredictable storylines. And each of his novels has layers upon layers of intimacy, most especially in Pierre & Bill.
One of the most complex and interesting relationships for me to read about is between a parent and child. While on the surface, usually there’s formality and respect - and then, when we scratch below the surface, a wealth of emotions are revealed. While traditional borders exist between Bill and Pierre, there’s a special bond here that’s unique and fascinating.
Right from the outset of this story, a curious ambiguity is apparent in their interactions. Were they lovers, or are they simply family? How will the upcoming event affect their future? When they face this challenge, what changes will it cause in their relationship? And, as Patrick Doyle gradually reveals aspects of how their pasts are interconnected, this relationship continues to get more meaningful.
Well, it wouldn’t be a love story for me without romantic love, and (hopefully) a hearty dose of passion. Patrick Doyle writes wonderfully sensual love scenes, filled with scorching sex and plenty of emotion. There’s a raw and edgy element, which truly suits Bill’s character, adds depth, and reveals some interesting insight into this man’s past.
One of the things I appreciate most about Patrick Doyle’s writing is his use of vivid and wonderfully descriptive phrases. Whether it’s an exotic and picturesque locale, or someplace less than savory, you will surely feel like you’re right in the middle of it all.
With a quickly growing body of novels, Patrick Doyle continues to deliver the unexpected. I can’t even guess what he’ll bring us next, but whatever it is, I know I’m going to love it as much as I did Pierre & Bill: A Love Story!
December 12, 2021
This is a story I’ll remember for a long time. It’s not at all like most other books that could be filed under M/M, even by association.
Writing this review is difficult because there’s so much to say. The title is very apt: while romance plays a part in the overall story, the central relationship is familial. I loved the banter, the affection, the brutal honesty, the uncomfortable moments. Pierre and Bill read especially authentic to me.
It’s very late as I write this, and coherent thought is failing, so here’s a list of key points:
- There is a definite fatalistic tone, but it’s not a relentlessly depressing read. Thought-provoking and maybe striking a little close to home depending on the reader; just don’t go in expecting sugar and fluff.
- It’s actually pretty steamy in parts! There’s probably something to be said here about the theme of living your life vs. waiting around to die, but nothing good comes of 3AM literary analysis.
- Noticed just a few typographical errors because I can’t help it; not enough to be overly distracting.
- It didn’t end quite how I had expected, and that’s a neutral observation. Again, “thought-provoking” comes to mind.
Give this a read if you want to try a heartfelt, contemporary love story that features gay men but is not like the others. It’s not just about romance; it’s not just about an older person with health challenges; it’s not just about the stages of life; it’s truly distinctive.
Writing this review is difficult because there’s so much to say. The title is very apt: while romance plays a part in the overall story, the central relationship is familial. I loved the banter, the affection, the brutal honesty, the uncomfortable moments. Pierre and Bill read especially authentic to me.
It’s very late as I write this, and coherent thought is failing, so here’s a list of key points:
- There is a definite fatalistic tone, but it’s not a relentlessly depressing read. Thought-provoking and maybe striking a little close to home depending on the reader; just don’t go in expecting sugar and fluff.
- It’s actually pretty steamy in parts! There’s probably something to be said here about the theme of living your life vs. waiting around to die, but nothing good comes of 3AM literary analysis.
- Noticed just a few typographical errors because I can’t help it; not enough to be overly distracting.
- It didn’t end quite how I had expected, and that’s a neutral observation. Again, “thought-provoking” comes to mind.
Give this a read if you want to try a heartfelt, contemporary love story that features gay men but is not like the others. It’s not just about romance; it’s not just about an older person with health challenges; it’s not just about the stages of life; it’s truly distinctive.
October 7, 2021
Pierre & Bill, a Love Story
By Patrick Doyle
Published by the author, December 2021
Five stars
How can a book have all the elements of a “classic” gay romance, and yet not be one? You’ll have to read Patrick Doyle’s “Pierre & Bill” to find out. It is familiar in its real-ness, and it resonated deeply with me.
Pierre and Bill are not a couple. They’re not father and son, either. They do, however, love each other and have lived together for a long time. Pierre is a retired construction worker, and Bill is a high-school art teacher, more than thirty years Pierre’s junior. I wanted to simply define their relationship as parent/child, but the author (and his characters) really don’t want that. Also, as we enter the story, set in Canada in the present day, Pierre and Bill’s relationship is undergoing a sea change.
Things get complicated in their cozy life when Pierre’s health is suddenly in question—and the Bill encounters a challenge at work that threatens the security he and Pierre have built together. Then, as if that wasn’t enough, two young men, both younger than Bill, enter their life and cause further emotional confusion. Danny and Liam are very different from each other, and the author portrays them with as much care and loving detail as he lavishes on Bill and Pierre.
While the plot is important—dealing with difficult issues and real-world truths—it really is the complex emotional interconnections among the four main characters that make the story so satisfying and relatable. No matter how much we want it to be, life is never simple. Love and loss, justice and injustice, acceptance and rejection: these are the things that Pierre and Bill have to deal with.
Pierre may be a stubborn old coot (he is, I note, exactly my age), but Bill is rather a whiny child at times. Bill is not flawless, and his flaws struck home as I read the story, which takes place entirely through his eyes. Ultimately this is a gentle book, about gentle men yearning for happiness and security. It’s nothing new, but somehow it all felt very different, thanks to the author’s deft handling of the narrative.
By Patrick Doyle
Published by the author, December 2021
Five stars
How can a book have all the elements of a “classic” gay romance, and yet not be one? You’ll have to read Patrick Doyle’s “Pierre & Bill” to find out. It is familiar in its real-ness, and it resonated deeply with me.
Pierre and Bill are not a couple. They’re not father and son, either. They do, however, love each other and have lived together for a long time. Pierre is a retired construction worker, and Bill is a high-school art teacher, more than thirty years Pierre’s junior. I wanted to simply define their relationship as parent/child, but the author (and his characters) really don’t want that. Also, as we enter the story, set in Canada in the present day, Pierre and Bill’s relationship is undergoing a sea change.
Things get complicated in their cozy life when Pierre’s health is suddenly in question—and the Bill encounters a challenge at work that threatens the security he and Pierre have built together. Then, as if that wasn’t enough, two young men, both younger than Bill, enter their life and cause further emotional confusion. Danny and Liam are very different from each other, and the author portrays them with as much care and loving detail as he lavishes on Bill and Pierre.
While the plot is important—dealing with difficult issues and real-world truths—it really is the complex emotional interconnections among the four main characters that make the story so satisfying and relatable. No matter how much we want it to be, life is never simple. Love and loss, justice and injustice, acceptance and rejection: these are the things that Pierre and Bill have to deal with.
Pierre may be a stubborn old coot (he is, I note, exactly my age), but Bill is rather a whiny child at times. Bill is not flawless, and his flaws struck home as I read the story, which takes place entirely through his eyes. Ultimately this is a gentle book, about gentle men yearning for happiness and security. It’s nothing new, but somehow it all felt very different, thanks to the author’s deft handling of the narrative.
November 22, 2023
5 Stars - An absolute must read!
Everything about Patrick Doyle’s extraordinary novel, Pierre & Bill: A Love Story, is completely unexpected. Even what may at first appear to be an odd choice for a cover is beautifully explained in the final pages of the book when that haunting image comes sharply into focus.
There are still a few editing issues that could be helped by a good proofreader, but those issues do not detract in any way from Doyle’s wonderfully developed characters - Pierre, Bill, Danny, Liam, and Ruthie - who caused this reader to experience the full range of human emotion from tears of sadness to tears of joy with a serious dose of anger along the way.
Doyle has promised to bring back his memorable characters in a sequel he’s entitled Pierre & Bill Now currently expected to be published in February of 2024. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
I, for one, can hardly wait.
Everything about Patrick Doyle’s extraordinary novel, Pierre & Bill: A Love Story, is completely unexpected. Even what may at first appear to be an odd choice for a cover is beautifully explained in the final pages of the book when that haunting image comes sharply into focus.
There are still a few editing issues that could be helped by a good proofreader, but those issues do not detract in any way from Doyle’s wonderfully developed characters - Pierre, Bill, Danny, Liam, and Ruthie - who caused this reader to experience the full range of human emotion from tears of sadness to tears of joy with a serious dose of anger along the way.
Doyle has promised to bring back his memorable characters in a sequel he’s entitled Pierre & Bill Now currently expected to be published in February of 2024. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
I, for one, can hardly wait.
January 10, 2024
Being caught off guard by a story that takes a direction you never expected is one of the best feelings in the world. I love being surprised and taking that coveted spot at the edge of my seat because I have no idea what the author will throw at me next. This book came out of nowhere for me. I'd never heard of it, never seen reviews for it pop up on my feed, and now I'm trying to figure out how to adjust the algorithm that thinks I only read MM romance to show me more stories like this one. Pierre and Bill stole my heart on the very first page and kept me riveted throughout. Was this a perfect book? No. I definitely had notes. But I woke up at 3 AM and couldn't stop thinking about it. I started writing a review in my head before I was even halfway through it and I haven't felt that kind of inspiration in awhile. Pierre, Bill and all of the interesting and unexpected side characters had taken root in my brain and they have no plans to leave anytime soon.
Because I noticed that this is tagged as MM romance, I want to clarify that while there are romantic elements in the story, I would not call this a romance. I mean, it's in the title. This is a love story. Pierre and Bill are not romantically involved and never have been. Pierre loved and lost Bill's dad, Joe. He was a fatherly figure in Bill's life without ever considering himself a father. As Bill would always say when asked, it's complicated. I would say it's special. In this book Bill is 32 and Pierre is 65 and having some health problems. I never thought I'd read a book that begins in a prostate health clinic, but here we are! I loved the way the author portrayed the shifting tides between caregiver and charge as people age, especially through a character like Pierre who was proud and strong and tenacious. This led to some some tricky moments, especially once Danny and Liam dropped into their lives. Bill was left to reconfigure what he'd considered status quo for so long and it led to some bumping of heads to say the least. Bill's struggle with the green eyed monster was particularly interesting and handled with so much honesty that I felt it in my gut. Complicated, indeed.
The characters were the absolute best part of this book. Pierre was wily and fantastic - a classic life of the party kind of person. There were times that I wanted to be upset with him and couldn't because I'd visualize his smile and those mischievous eyes and instantly forgive him. Bill was a tough nut to crack, even though the entire story was in his POV. He put so much time, effort and energy into his relationship with Pierre, that it was hard to determine what he wanted for himself. If someone else wanted to be a part of his life, they had to make a pretty big impression. Once in, though, Bill loved fast and hard (that was not meant as innuendo, but it could be!). Danny was interesting to me because I never fully trusted him even though he was probably the most honest character in the book. He was too confident, too charismatic, too easy going. He kept my side eye fully engaged. Liam, on the other hand, was a bomb waiting to go off. He had been so repressed as an adolescent that, when given a chance to let go, he let go with abandon. And then there was Ruthie. Even at 5 years old, she was giving some serious girl boss energy. She was actually kind of terrifying.
My biggest complaint and the main reason I withheld a star is that this book felt like it was telling two separate stories that didn't exactly flow well together, in my opinion. I liked both of them, but the tone felt different in each, which made the switch between the two feel jarring at times. The situation at Bill's school had a fantastical feel to it, complete with a storybook villain and a heroic conclusion. Bouncing between that and the tender and funny moments with Pierre was a challenge for me.
I was so excited to find out that there's a sequel coming out on 2/27/24 (Pierre & Bill Now), that I broke my own rules and requested an ARC. I also cheated and read it before reviewing this one, so I can honestly say that the story of Pierre and Bill gets even more beautiful. I'm so glad I stumbled across this book. I read it through KU, but purchased it afterwards so I can revisit these characters again and again.
Because I noticed that this is tagged as MM romance, I want to clarify that while there are romantic elements in the story, I would not call this a romance. I mean, it's in the title. This is a love story. Pierre and Bill are not romantically involved and never have been. Pierre loved and lost Bill's dad, Joe. He was a fatherly figure in Bill's life without ever considering himself a father. As Bill would always say when asked, it's complicated. I would say it's special. In this book Bill is 32 and Pierre is 65 and having some health problems. I never thought I'd read a book that begins in a prostate health clinic, but here we are! I loved the way the author portrayed the shifting tides between caregiver and charge as people age, especially through a character like Pierre who was proud and strong and tenacious. This led to some some tricky moments, especially once Danny and Liam dropped into their lives. Bill was left to reconfigure what he'd considered status quo for so long and it led to some bumping of heads to say the least. Bill's struggle with the green eyed monster was particularly interesting and handled with so much honesty that I felt it in my gut. Complicated, indeed.
The characters were the absolute best part of this book. Pierre was wily and fantastic - a classic life of the party kind of person. There were times that I wanted to be upset with him and couldn't because I'd visualize his smile and those mischievous eyes and instantly forgive him. Bill was a tough nut to crack, even though the entire story was in his POV. He put so much time, effort and energy into his relationship with Pierre, that it was hard to determine what he wanted for himself. If someone else wanted to be a part of his life, they had to make a pretty big impression. Once in, though, Bill loved fast and hard (that was not meant as innuendo, but it could be!). Danny was interesting to me because I never fully trusted him even though he was probably the most honest character in the book. He was too confident, too charismatic, too easy going. He kept my side eye fully engaged. Liam, on the other hand, was a bomb waiting to go off. He had been so repressed as an adolescent that, when given a chance to let go, he let go with abandon. And then there was Ruthie. Even at 5 years old, she was giving some serious girl boss energy. She was actually kind of terrifying.
My biggest complaint and the main reason I withheld a star is that this book felt like it was telling two separate stories that didn't exactly flow well together, in my opinion. I liked both of them, but the tone felt different in each, which made the switch between the two feel jarring at times. The situation at Bill's school had a fantastical feel to it, complete with a storybook villain and a heroic conclusion. Bouncing between that and the tender and funny moments with Pierre was a challenge for me.
I was so excited to find out that there's a sequel coming out on 2/27/24 (Pierre & Bill Now), that I broke my own rules and requested an ARC. I also cheated and read it before reviewing this one, so I can honestly say that the story of Pierre and Bill gets even more beautiful. I'm so glad I stumbled across this book. I read it through KU, but purchased it afterwards so I can revisit these characters again and again.
April 1, 2022
This is well written, descriptive, with terrific characters, a riveting tale, and we get new and fresh content, a win-win.
We are introduced to the people bit-by-bit, and once we know who was who, you'll be a happy camper.
The story flows beautifully, keeps our attention and all of our questions were systematically answered.
Pierre is 64, a Frenchman, quite the handyman, the
former lover of Bill's Dad, who took care of him after his dad passed. Now, it's Bill caring for Pierre, with his health issues.
Bill, 32, an art teacher, is doing his best and
simply wants to care for Pierre, but a companion would be lovely. His students are wonderful side characters.
Bill meets Danny, a bookstore manager,
who ends up infatuated by Pierre,
and then a new math teacher...
Liam, 23, blonde with glasses,
who is a mystery to Bill. Bill has questions.
The school's director is a sexual predator, Mr. Crump, and with that problem afoot, we also get the romance side of things with our guys, too.
Couples, Pierre and Danny, and then Bill and Liam.
This is a fantastic story with endearing pasts, deep thoughts, emotions and passions afloat. The sexy times are exciting and hot.
The relationships move forward slowly, amidst the health visits and the school situation.
Mr. Crump's issues are revealed slowly, and we get our satisfaction in an unexpected way.
A completely rewarding story, we find it fun and heartwarming, serious and socially pertinent, plus it's a fresh look at relationships and realities.
ENJOY !
======
We are introduced to the people bit-by-bit, and once we know who was who, you'll be a happy camper.
The story flows beautifully, keeps our attention and all of our questions were systematically answered.
Pierre is 64, a Frenchman, quite the handyman, the
former lover of Bill's Dad, who took care of him after his dad passed. Now, it's Bill caring for Pierre, with his health issues.
Bill, 32, an art teacher, is doing his best and
simply wants to care for Pierre, but a companion would be lovely. His students are wonderful side characters.
Bill meets Danny, a bookstore manager,
who ends up infatuated by Pierre,
and then a new math teacher...
Liam, 23, blonde with glasses,
who is a mystery to Bill. Bill has questions.
The school's director is a sexual predator, Mr. Crump, and with that problem afoot, we also get the romance side of things with our guys, too.
Couples, Pierre and Danny, and then Bill and Liam.
This is a fantastic story with endearing pasts, deep thoughts, emotions and passions afloat. The sexy times are exciting and hot.
The relationships move forward slowly, amidst the health visits and the school situation.
Mr. Crump's issues are revealed slowly, and we get our satisfaction in an unexpected way.
A completely rewarding story, we find it fun and heartwarming, serious and socially pertinent, plus it's a fresh look at relationships and realities.
ENJOY !
======
June 28, 2022
A very enjoyable read with some very good things.
The tone is different & you want to know more about the 4 MC's (pity they're all 4 incredibly good-looking). The characterization is well worked-out, the relationships are complex and the writing is good without being overwrought.
There were a few things which didn't work for me: Crump, the school director, is a caricature and how the day was saved sounded like a movie from the 50's.After decades speaking English, Pierre's pidgin English asking for relatively simple words is exaggerated. Maybe it's just me but I would have liked it even better if the author had not used several tricks of "impending disaster" to sustain the reader's interest.
I suppose that when leaving a review and critiquing a book, we readers believe we explain how the book could be improved but, in fine, we mostly point out the discrepancies with the ideal book we had in mind. All in all, Pierre & Bill is an interesting book which I really enjoyed reading. 14/20
The tone is different & you want to know more about the 4 MC's (pity they're all 4 incredibly good-looking). The characterization is well worked-out, the relationships are complex and the writing is good without being overwrought.
There were a few things which didn't work for me: Crump, the school director, is a caricature and how the day was saved sounded like a movie from the 50's.After decades speaking English, Pierre's pidgin English asking for relatively simple words is exaggerated. Maybe it's just me but I would have liked it even better if the author had not used several tricks of "impending disaster" to sustain the reader's interest.
I suppose that when leaving a review and critiquing a book, we readers believe we explain how the book could be improved but, in fine, we mostly point out the discrepancies with the ideal book we had in mind. All in all, Pierre & Bill is an interesting book which I really enjoyed reading. 14/20
December 1, 2021
Thanks to the author for the ARC.
This book is subtitled “A Love Story” but is not the cookie-cutter romance that you may be expecting. The book explores various types of emotional bonds among gay men and the issue of what makes a family. The author also gives the four main gay male characters distinct personalities and voices, including distinct romantic and erotic interests, without falling into the common trap of designating these characters as the right and wrong kinds of gay.
The big issue that I have is with the character of Bill. Although he is the viewpoint character, I never get the sense of fully seeing his world through his eyes. Also, his reactions often seem out of character for a man of his age.
This book is subtitled “A Love Story” but is not the cookie-cutter romance that you may be expecting. The book explores various types of emotional bonds among gay men and the issue of what makes a family. The author also gives the four main gay male characters distinct personalities and voices, including distinct romantic and erotic interests, without falling into the common trap of designating these characters as the right and wrong kinds of gay.
The big issue that I have is with the character of Bill. Although he is the viewpoint character, I never get the sense of fully seeing his world through his eyes. Also, his reactions often seem out of character for a man of his age.
November 16, 2021
I enjoyed this story which focuses on thirty something year old Bill and his unofficial uncle Pierre. Their relationship is one of family and support of each other.
Both Bill and Pierre and their new friends are dealing with some pretty heavy issues.
The deep familial friendship and the new changes to the dynamic bring challenges Bill wasn't prepared for.
Although it took me a few chapters to get into the story, I soon found myself keen to see how these relationships, both new and old evolved.
This is an at times emotional story dealing with serious illness, abuse, employment instability. I loved Pierre and wish everyone had someone like him on their lives.
Both Bill and Pierre and their new friends are dealing with some pretty heavy issues.
The deep familial friendship and the new changes to the dynamic bring challenges Bill wasn't prepared for.
Although it took me a few chapters to get into the story, I soon found myself keen to see how these relationships, both new and old evolved.
This is an at times emotional story dealing with serious illness, abuse, employment instability. I loved Pierre and wish everyone had someone like him on their lives.
April 30, 2022
First there was Joe and Bill, before adding Pierre - and then Liam and Dan and subsequently another, this M-M romance with a found family theme proved wonderfully engaging (once I got past my initial 'WTH is going on with these MCs' reaction in the first chapter). I appreciate how the social stressors related to having an 'unconventional relationship' can be quite similar to having to protect a LGBTIQ relationship from hostile eyes/intentions. 4.5 well deserved stars.
December 16, 2021
This story follows Pierre and Bill many years after they become part of the other's life. The characters are endearing and the book well written. I feel like Pierre, Bill, Danny, and Liam could be people I know. This was not an agsty read for me. These characters will remain with me for days to come. I highly recommend this book.
August 7, 2024
4 1/2 stars. I’m rounding this up because it was just too sweet to round down. This was a book about the love between friends and found family. I’m looking forward to the sequel.
October 20, 2024
This was a lovely book. The writing is so spot on. This is my second book by Patrick Doyle and I loved both of them.
January 30, 2025
What a beautiful story of deep love and friendship.
I really loved the way the author kept mystery in parts of the story as we were kept wanting to learn more about Bill and Pierre’s past.
What a unique and wonderful original story of heartbreak but showing that there is light at the end of the tunnel when in grief.
That fear of losing loved ones and how overwhelming it can be, I personally live with a similar fear, just as unfounded as this story but rooted from a place of already losing a parent just like Bill.
Bill finding Liam and the school story arch was thought out and so very caring, as hard as it was to read what was happening and how long it had been going on for it was handled really well.
Then there were some amazing sexual encounters which felt so real to life and had the right level of grittiness that hot sex can be! For some reason the image in my head of Liam is so so sexy but I think it’s because of how Bill looks at him and describes his beauty.
Bill also does the same in a different way for Pierre, him being so well dressed and always looking after his image no matter where he was going is a real thing of its time, and I loved that about him.
I’m really looking forward to the sequel and the prequel, I wonder what order I should consume them in. I want to know what’s next for the ‘Three adults, a senior, and a child sharing a home, and most of them unrelated’ but that’s a matter for 2025!
I’m done for the year! Thank you 2024 it’s been a wonderful year! And kudos to GR for helping me fall back in love with reading!
I really loved the way the author kept mystery in parts of the story as we were kept wanting to learn more about Bill and Pierre’s past.
What a unique and wonderful original story of heartbreak but showing that there is light at the end of the tunnel when in grief.
That fear of losing loved ones and how overwhelming it can be, I personally live with a similar fear, just as unfounded as this story but rooted from a place of already losing a parent just like Bill.
Bill finding Liam and the school story arch was thought out and so very caring, as hard as it was to read what was happening and how long it had been going on for it was handled really well.
Then there were some amazing sexual encounters which felt so real to life and had the right level of grittiness that hot sex can be! For some reason the image in my head of Liam is so so sexy but I think it’s because of how Bill looks at him and describes his beauty.
Bill also does the same in a different way for Pierre, him being so well dressed and always looking after his image no matter where he was going is a real thing of its time, and I loved that about him.
I’m really looking forward to the sequel and the prequel, I wonder what order I should consume them in. I want to know what’s next for the ‘Three adults, a senior, and a child sharing a home, and most of them unrelated’ but that’s a matter for 2025!
I’m done for the year! Thank you 2024 it’s been a wonderful year! And kudos to GR for helping me fall back in love with reading!
November 10, 2021
A very different love story involving family as well as intimate lovers. Bill lost his mother at a very early age and his father was then with Pierre when he passed away. Bill has been raised by Pierre, his Tonton through the difficulties society imposes on a gay man raising a child who's not related by blood. Bill is now faced with new challenges as he helps Pierre with his medical conditions and is sexually harassed at work. While trying to cope with the financial crisis caused by the harassment at work he meets Danny. Danny seems ideal, but despite a large age difference is taken by Pierre. Bill then meets another teacher at his school, Liam, who seems interested in him, if a little enigmatic. When Liam's career is in jeopardy the loves and jealousies are put into perspective. Through it all Bill has to sort out his love and attachment for the men in his life, platonic love for Pierre, jealousy with Danny and romantic love for Liam. Life is complicated and sorting it out takes time and patience.
November 15, 2021
A lovely surprise!😊
This novel does not fit the usual mold of MM romance; I would actual call it Men's Fiction, an equivalent to Women's Fiction, since it delves into Pierre and Bill's unusual father-son relationship and the circle of friends and lovers they develop in a fraught year.
Both men are gay and, originally brought together by Bill's father Jo, long deceased, who was Pierre's lover, they have a tight bond and live together. Pierre, the elder of the two, has health issues that worry Bill even as Pierre remains irrepressible. Bill is, in general, a worrier, while Pierre lives for the moment to squeeze the most out of the time he's been given.
Liam and Danny, two young men Bill gets to know through his work as an art teacher, enter their lives and Bill has a hard time adapting to the changes they bring to his relationship with Pierre. It's all very realistic and relatable, particularly Bill's protective attitude and jealousy.
I thoroughly enjoyed their story.
This novel does not fit the usual mold of MM romance; I would actual call it Men's Fiction, an equivalent to Women's Fiction, since it delves into Pierre and Bill's unusual father-son relationship and the circle of friends and lovers they develop in a fraught year.
Both men are gay and, originally brought together by Bill's father Jo, long deceased, who was Pierre's lover, they have a tight bond and live together. Pierre, the elder of the two, has health issues that worry Bill even as Pierre remains irrepressible. Bill is, in general, a worrier, while Pierre lives for the moment to squeeze the most out of the time he's been given.
Liam and Danny, two young men Bill gets to know through his work as an art teacher, enter their lives and Bill has a hard time adapting to the changes they bring to his relationship with Pierre. It's all very realistic and relatable, particularly Bill's protective attitude and jealousy.
I thoroughly enjoyed their story.
January 10, 2022
This was somehow difficult to read and it's even more difficult to review.
I am a little clueless what to write, definitely this is not your typical m/m romance, the story is very complex, following different people in their lives together as friends, parents and partners.
Already the title is misleading, because the love story between Pierre and Bill is not the one you expect.
On the one hand this made the story interesting, on the other hand, for me it was more challenging to relate to the main characters.
It never got boring, but sometimes I wished the story would concentrate more on one couple and give me a little more in depths views of Bill, who was probably the protagonist of the book.
All in all this was an enjoyable read and I am glad I left my "romance book comfort zone" for a different but interesting experience!
4 stars and recommended if you are open to read a different kind of romance.
I am a little clueless what to write, definitely this is not your typical m/m romance, the story is very complex, following different people in their lives together as friends, parents and partners.
Already the title is misleading, because the love story between Pierre and Bill is not the one you expect.
On the one hand this made the story interesting, on the other hand, for me it was more challenging to relate to the main characters.
It never got boring, but sometimes I wished the story would concentrate more on one couple and give me a little more in depths views of Bill, who was probably the protagonist of the book.
All in all this was an enjoyable read and I am glad I left my "romance book comfort zone" for a different but interesting experience!
4 stars and recommended if you are open to read a different kind of romance.
January 12, 2022
This was a joy to read.
Bill is the Care giver to Pierre, his Father's lover, before his father died and Pierre adopted him aged 16, but had been in his life as Father number 2 since Bill was Five.
Pierre has prostate cancer at the age of 65 and Bill is worried. It's a happy ending. Both meet people that love them and the Machiavellian character receives his just rewards.
Seriously a great and lengthy read. Great characters, great plot and the sex is not graphic, it's there but not graphic.
4.5/5 stars.
Bill is the Care giver to Pierre, his Father's lover, before his father died and Pierre adopted him aged 16, but had been in his life as Father number 2 since Bill was Five.
Pierre has prostate cancer at the age of 65 and Bill is worried. It's a happy ending. Both meet people that love them and the Machiavellian character receives his just rewards.
Seriously a great and lengthy read. Great characters, great plot and the sex is not graphic, it's there but not graphic.
4.5/5 stars.
February 3, 2022
A masterpiece of love, mortality and philosophy. Not one, but three love stories…different types of love, all intertwined. The voice is original, the subject matter complex and the presentation pitch-perfect. Wow!
September 24, 2022
Intelligent prose, aware and discerning.
It made me rage, hope and smile.
A voice that sounds real, not always comfortable, but most definitely good.
It made me rage, hope and smile.
A voice that sounds real, not always comfortable, but most definitely good.
December 5, 2023
(Really more like a 4.5 stars)
For a book that contains so much truth, it’s odd that the title of the book is itself a lie. Yes, the story is about Pierre and Bill. And yes ,there is love; but actually, that’s the lie. There is so much love, of so many varieties, that calling this “A Love Story” is misleading.
Bill does love his gay foster step father Pierre. Pierre does love his step son Bill, but it’s a tender, parental love and not the romantic kind. Pierre has raised Bill on his own since Joe, Bill’s bio-dad (and Pierre’s lover) died when Bill was in his early teens. The book contains plenty of the romantic love as well. And that’s the point. This is also a story that breaks down stereotypes and transcends tropes.
At times it’s sweet, at times it’s heartbreaking and at other times its laugh out loud funny. Pierre is a sexy sexagenarian, past sixty but with a charm that’s undimmed by the years. Bill teaches a night class in art and invites Danny a fit young model home for a meal with him and Pierre. Bill starts to rage at Pierre when the old man sets a candle-lit table for two and then conveniently tries to disappear. After changing the seating plans back to dinner for three, Bill learns to be careful what he wishes for when the young model is romantically smitten with Pierre. Bill can’t decide if he’s jealous or insulted.
This is also a story about growing older. It’s a story about an older man’s brush with prostate cancer. It’s a story about growing comfortable in your own skin, and growing cranky with age. It’s a story about living today fully rather than worrying too much about tomorrow. In fact, it’s a story about many things. Unfortunately one of those things is a school administrator who preys on cute young teachers and Bill soon finds his work schedule cut to the bone after he fends off the man’s advance. Bill’s not the only victim and when Liam, another young teacher at the school begins a relationship with Bill only for Bill to discover that he’s also been a victim, Bill realizes that he has to confront this situation.
Seeing four adult gay men dealing with these complicated relationships makes this much more than just “A Love Story.” By all means, if you’d like to add a little fiber to your literary diet, check this one out.
***Note: While I received a free copy of this title, this is an honest and impartial review.***
For a book that contains so much truth, it’s odd that the title of the book is itself a lie. Yes, the story is about Pierre and Bill. And yes ,there is love; but actually, that’s the lie. There is so much love, of so many varieties, that calling this “A Love Story” is misleading.
Bill does love his gay foster step father Pierre. Pierre does love his step son Bill, but it’s a tender, parental love and not the romantic kind. Pierre has raised Bill on his own since Joe, Bill’s bio-dad (and Pierre’s lover) died when Bill was in his early teens. The book contains plenty of the romantic love as well. And that’s the point. This is also a story that breaks down stereotypes and transcends tropes.
At times it’s sweet, at times it’s heartbreaking and at other times its laugh out loud funny. Pierre is a sexy sexagenarian, past sixty but with a charm that’s undimmed by the years. Bill teaches a night class in art and invites Danny a fit young model home for a meal with him and Pierre. Bill starts to rage at Pierre when the old man sets a candle-lit table for two and then conveniently tries to disappear. After changing the seating plans back to dinner for three, Bill learns to be careful what he wishes for when the young model is romantically smitten with Pierre. Bill can’t decide if he’s jealous or insulted.
This is also a story about growing older. It’s a story about an older man’s brush with prostate cancer. It’s a story about growing comfortable in your own skin, and growing cranky with age. It’s a story about living today fully rather than worrying too much about tomorrow. In fact, it’s a story about many things. Unfortunately one of those things is a school administrator who preys on cute young teachers and Bill soon finds his work schedule cut to the bone after he fends off the man’s advance. Bill’s not the only victim and when Liam, another young teacher at the school begins a relationship with Bill only for Bill to discover that he’s also been a victim, Bill realizes that he has to confront this situation.
Seeing four adult gay men dealing with these complicated relationships makes this much more than just “A Love Story.” By all means, if you’d like to add a little fiber to your literary diet, check this one out.
***Note: While I received a free copy of this title, this is an honest and impartial review.***
August 23, 2023
I picked up a copy of Pierre & Bill: A Love Story to read a M/M love story, written explicitly by another LGTBQ+ author. When I was working on publishing my novel, Life-Line: Origins I quickly discovered that women write a high volume of M/M love stories. I wanted to read one from another gay man. I discovered Patrick Doyle on Goodreads and decided to give him a try.
I enjoyed the storyline as Bill discovers his path in his relationships with those around him. Based on the title, I assumed that Pierre and Bill would be the love interests, so I was pleasantly surprised to find that Pierre was the former partner of Bill's dad, who had passed away. With that in mind, Pierre and Bill have a wonderfully complex relationship. The love between the two was very touching and realistic; there was no sugarcoating. Relationships are hard and watching Bill go through dealing with Pierre's hardship made it even more compelling.
I really like how Bill grew in his understanding of his place in his world - how he related to potential boyfriends and dealt with jealousy when one of his love interests became attracted to Pierre. Bill's interaction with Danny and later Liam unfolded in surprising ways - and not always in the most pleasant ways. Bill had to struggle to get where he was at the end of the novel. It was clear that Bill had to go through a series of hardships in order to find what he wanted the most: the love of another man in the form of a father figure (Pierre) and a love interest (Liam).
Another aspect of this novel that I enjoyed was the banter between Pierre and Bill in French. Doyle's portrayal of Pierre's speaking habits in French and English made the reading even more enjoyable.
Gay men such as myself and those in the book never really had a model to follow when it comes to gay relationships. We had to write our own relationship manuals separate from the mainstream heterosexual ideals and paths. I found Bill's voyage of discovery to be authentic and touching. Doyle's portrayal of sex was perfect for this novel - definitely sexy and enjoyable.
I applaud Doyle for his willingness to self-publish his stories and it is my opinion that Indie books deserve the exposure, as I have done with my first novel.
I will definitely be seeking out more titles from Doyle to read.
I enjoyed the storyline as Bill discovers his path in his relationships with those around him. Based on the title, I assumed that Pierre and Bill would be the love interests, so I was pleasantly surprised to find that Pierre was the former partner of Bill's dad, who had passed away. With that in mind, Pierre and Bill have a wonderfully complex relationship. The love between the two was very touching and realistic; there was no sugarcoating. Relationships are hard and watching Bill go through dealing with Pierre's hardship made it even more compelling.
I really like how Bill grew in his understanding of his place in his world - how he related to potential boyfriends and dealt with jealousy when one of his love interests became attracted to Pierre. Bill's interaction with Danny and later Liam unfolded in surprising ways - and not always in the most pleasant ways. Bill had to struggle to get where he was at the end of the novel. It was clear that Bill had to go through a series of hardships in order to find what he wanted the most: the love of another man in the form of a father figure (Pierre) and a love interest (Liam).
Another aspect of this novel that I enjoyed was the banter between Pierre and Bill in French. Doyle's portrayal of Pierre's speaking habits in French and English made the reading even more enjoyable.
Gay men such as myself and those in the book never really had a model to follow when it comes to gay relationships. We had to write our own relationship manuals separate from the mainstream heterosexual ideals and paths. I found Bill's voyage of discovery to be authentic and touching. Doyle's portrayal of sex was perfect for this novel - definitely sexy and enjoyable.
I applaud Doyle for his willingness to self-publish his stories and it is my opinion that Indie books deserve the exposure, as I have done with my first novel.
I will definitely be seeking out more titles from Doyle to read.
January 19, 2022
What a lovely tender love story between two men who learn to create a life together despite challenges from society and cultural expectations. This is not your typical gay romance but rather a tale of two souls who face life and its challenges, including romance, hate and the frailty of the human body, as a family even when society does not support them. I would have loved to receive a dinner invitation from Pierre!
December 29, 2021
A good book - definitely worth the time invested to read the story
For me the book started out a little slow. But definitely stick with it because the characters and story are worth the effort. Definitely recommend this book, highly!
For me the book started out a little slow. But definitely stick with it because the characters and story are worth the effort. Definitely recommend this book, highly!
November 29, 2021
As the title states, this is really a story about “Pierre & Bill” and their special bond that they have, no matter what life deals them.
Pierre is quite the character! He is sixty-four and to Bill he is known as Tonton (uncle). Pierre was Joe’s lover and Joe had a son, of course, that’s Bill. Joe passed away and Pierre legally adopted Bill, but their status remained a secret because of bigotry, society, rumors and scandal. From a very young age Pierre continued to take care of Bill. Now Bill finds himself taking care of Pierre.
Pierre stays fit and in good psychical condition, but as with age, he has a some serious health problems working against him. He’s stubborn at times and feels that some things that have to be done to help him health wise are degrading. Bill is always there to help make him understand how important it is to follow doctors orders. Pierre is also a sweetheart and loves life to the fullest. He really believes he can do anything and it leads him into trouble. He also has the knack to be able to build and fix anything around the house. Being from Quebec and having resentment towards the Roman Catholic Church he swears religiously using the rites and artifacts of the church. Which is quite humorous!
Bill is in his thirties and shares the house with Pierre. He’s always there for Pierre and has no issues with accompanying him to his doctor appointments and goes above and beyond for Pierre. He’s very loyal to Pierre and their bond remains solid, no matter the of the issues that crop up between them.
Bill finds himself attracted to two men: Danny Ali and Liam Lewis. His emotions are in a turmoil as both men reject him. Although the attraction for Danny lingers, Bill finds his feelings for Liam changing once he discovers the truth.
Both being teachers at the same school, Bill and Liam have been faced with a proposition by Director Crump. Bill almost accepted the proposition but through shear luck he was saved, but it didn’t stop his job as a teacher being severely threatened. But Liam out of fear and loosing everything agreed to the proposition. The situation starts to escalate but Bill is determined to help Liam and find a way to get to the bottom of this chaos.
Patrick Doyle creates a wonderfully, compassionate, love story that tugs at the heart. It’s not just a romantic love story but a story of love between a parent and child. It’s also about a special commitment that Bill makes for Pierre as he get’s older. Most of all this is a beautiful story about four men that have to make adjustments and accept becoming friends, lovers and eventually creating their own family in the process. There’s a wide variety of emotions: jealousy, acceptance, misunderstandings, hurt, and humor.
The story also brings out the importance of getting older and having someone always there to check on you and care for you. What Pierre tells Bill at the closing is important too. He’s well aware of the age difference in him and Danny. He sees a lot of himself in Danny too. Pierre has prepared himself, because there’s every chance that Danny may move on. But Bill will forever be there for Pierre.
Bill’s students were a great addition to the story and showed their loyalty to their teachers: DeAngelo, Tammy, Maryanne and David. But with the good there’s also the evilness and ignorance of Director Crump.
Just a note…the author also gives mention of “Tom of Finland”. Very interesting art works!
This is very different from what Patrick Doyle usually writes, there’s no murders involved but there is a little bit of crime solving. I loved this story and it did touch my heart and I’m so glad Patrick Doyle shared “Pierre & Bill” with me!
Pierre is quite the character! He is sixty-four and to Bill he is known as Tonton (uncle). Pierre was Joe’s lover and Joe had a son, of course, that’s Bill. Joe passed away and Pierre legally adopted Bill, but their status remained a secret because of bigotry, society, rumors and scandal. From a very young age Pierre continued to take care of Bill. Now Bill finds himself taking care of Pierre.
Pierre stays fit and in good psychical condition, but as with age, he has a some serious health problems working against him. He’s stubborn at times and feels that some things that have to be done to help him health wise are degrading. Bill is always there to help make him understand how important it is to follow doctors orders. Pierre is also a sweetheart and loves life to the fullest. He really believes he can do anything and it leads him into trouble. He also has the knack to be able to build and fix anything around the house. Being from Quebec and having resentment towards the Roman Catholic Church he swears religiously using the rites and artifacts of the church. Which is quite humorous!
Bill is in his thirties and shares the house with Pierre. He’s always there for Pierre and has no issues with accompanying him to his doctor appointments and goes above and beyond for Pierre. He’s very loyal to Pierre and their bond remains solid, no matter the of the issues that crop up between them.
Bill finds himself attracted to two men: Danny Ali and Liam Lewis. His emotions are in a turmoil as both men reject him. Although the attraction for Danny lingers, Bill finds his feelings for Liam changing once he discovers the truth.
Both being teachers at the same school, Bill and Liam have been faced with a proposition by Director Crump. Bill almost accepted the proposition but through shear luck he was saved, but it didn’t stop his job as a teacher being severely threatened. But Liam out of fear and loosing everything agreed to the proposition. The situation starts to escalate but Bill is determined to help Liam and find a way to get to the bottom of this chaos.
Patrick Doyle creates a wonderfully, compassionate, love story that tugs at the heart. It’s not just a romantic love story but a story of love between a parent and child. It’s also about a special commitment that Bill makes for Pierre as he get’s older. Most of all this is a beautiful story about four men that have to make adjustments and accept becoming friends, lovers and eventually creating their own family in the process. There’s a wide variety of emotions: jealousy, acceptance, misunderstandings, hurt, and humor.
The story also brings out the importance of getting older and having someone always there to check on you and care for you. What Pierre tells Bill at the closing is important too. He’s well aware of the age difference in him and Danny. He sees a lot of himself in Danny too. Pierre has prepared himself, because there’s every chance that Danny may move on. But Bill will forever be there for Pierre.
Bill’s students were a great addition to the story and showed their loyalty to their teachers: DeAngelo, Tammy, Maryanne and David. But with the good there’s also the evilness and ignorance of Director Crump.
Just a note…the author also gives mention of “Tom of Finland”. Very interesting art works!
This is very different from what Patrick Doyle usually writes, there’s no murders involved but there is a little bit of crime solving. I loved this story and it did touch my heart and I’m so glad Patrick Doyle shared “Pierre & Bill” with me!
April 14, 2024
https://looneybooks79.blog/2024/04/14...
It’s not often I get offered books by writers via Goodreads but in this case I was. One of the reasons for this is dat the author is not on any social media (we had a talk about it and the writing is more important than the selling so I respect that!) Don't hesitate to look him up though on Goodreads. He is a very amicable and very open for a chat and very openhearted.
This is the first book of two I was offered to read and review and I have been postponing it for far too long so I’m so happy to have find the time to finally read the first of the two books in this series! (If all goes well I will read the sequel pretty soon after I finish this one but as my reading list is evergrowing and eternally big, it might not be before next month, when I’ll squeeze it in between my other reads)
He felt something he’d never felt before. It wasn’t only love. He was hungry for him.
Bill and Pierre have been living together ever since Pierre and Bill's father had a relationship and Bill grew up with both men. But Bill's father, Joe, unfortunately died when he was young and after a custody battle he remained in the care of Pierre. Pierre is a very charismatic, Canadian fifty- or sixtysomething father figure for Bill who is currently battling his own fight with cancer. But Pierre is also very stubborn and if not for Bill he would probably not even go to the doctor. Despite the very funny French curses Pierre utters he lets himself being taken care by the young man he has had in his life for over twenty years now.
Bill is an art teacher, a very sweet man and single. During the course of this book he will meet a few men (more on them later) with which he finds himself enamoured. At his school there will be cutbacks and his boss and the school's director offers him a deal to stay in the school fulltime, but to do so Bill needs to act in a way he would never. He refuses and loses most of his lessons.
To earn a little extra money he does teach art classes to grownups, with live naked models. One of those models is Danny, a very handsome, almost godlike, model. Bill and Danny become friends and Bill even has feelings (whether they are love or pure lust, he's not really sure) for Danny, but something entirely unexpected happens which makes him very jealous and a bit lost.
At the same time, Bill meets another teacher from his school, Liam. Liam is a sweet somewhat naive man who is still searching his way in life. He was married once and has a little girl from that marriage but right now him and Bill are prone to get together, if it weren't for Liam doubting himself. And then there's the same school director who has offered Liam the same option as he has Bill... only for Liam to take him up on the offer, as not to loose his job and income.
For Bill starts one of his most exhausting periods in his life. He has to find a balance between Pierre and his recovery, Danny being in his life but having to face an ungrounded jealousy and Liam whom he begins a very passionate but also difficult relationship with as they have to face challenges at school, especially for Liam after he has refused to further abide to the director's will!
This is a very heartfelt story with the right amount of drama, laughs and passionate (sex) scenes (with being too vulgar or too explicit) and I have to say, I have read more queer books written by indie authors but none have touched me so deep than this one, so far!
It is so easy to feel with and for the characters! The book touches very sensitive themes such as love, death, abuse and cancer. But it is done with such respect for the characters and with the utmost love by the author (you can clearly feel that!).
As I said before, in February 2024 the sequel 'Pierre and Bill Now' was released, which will continue the lifestory of these two main characters. I am curious what will have happened to both during the time between the two books and whether we will see many new and even old people back from the first book. I better get reading, I guess!
It’s not often I get offered books by writers via Goodreads but in this case I was. One of the reasons for this is dat the author is not on any social media (we had a talk about it and the writing is more important than the selling so I respect that!) Don't hesitate to look him up though on Goodreads. He is a very amicable and very open for a chat and very openhearted.
This is the first book of two I was offered to read and review and I have been postponing it for far too long so I’m so happy to have find the time to finally read the first of the two books in this series! (If all goes well I will read the sequel pretty soon after I finish this one but as my reading list is evergrowing and eternally big, it might not be before next month, when I’ll squeeze it in between my other reads)
He felt something he’d never felt before. It wasn’t only love. He was hungry for him.
Bill and Pierre have been living together ever since Pierre and Bill's father had a relationship and Bill grew up with both men. But Bill's father, Joe, unfortunately died when he was young and after a custody battle he remained in the care of Pierre. Pierre is a very charismatic, Canadian fifty- or sixtysomething father figure for Bill who is currently battling his own fight with cancer. But Pierre is also very stubborn and if not for Bill he would probably not even go to the doctor. Despite the very funny French curses Pierre utters he lets himself being taken care by the young man he has had in his life for over twenty years now.
Bill is an art teacher, a very sweet man and single. During the course of this book he will meet a few men (more on them later) with which he finds himself enamoured. At his school there will be cutbacks and his boss and the school's director offers him a deal to stay in the school fulltime, but to do so Bill needs to act in a way he would never. He refuses and loses most of his lessons.
To earn a little extra money he does teach art classes to grownups, with live naked models. One of those models is Danny, a very handsome, almost godlike, model. Bill and Danny become friends and Bill even has feelings (whether they are love or pure lust, he's not really sure) for Danny, but something entirely unexpected happens which makes him very jealous and a bit lost.
At the same time, Bill meets another teacher from his school, Liam. Liam is a sweet somewhat naive man who is still searching his way in life. He was married once and has a little girl from that marriage but right now him and Bill are prone to get together, if it weren't for Liam doubting himself. And then there's the same school director who has offered Liam the same option as he has Bill... only for Liam to take him up on the offer, as not to loose his job and income.
For Bill starts one of his most exhausting periods in his life. He has to find a balance between Pierre and his recovery, Danny being in his life but having to face an ungrounded jealousy and Liam whom he begins a very passionate but also difficult relationship with as they have to face challenges at school, especially for Liam after he has refused to further abide to the director's will!
This is a very heartfelt story with the right amount of drama, laughs and passionate (sex) scenes (with being too vulgar or too explicit) and I have to say, I have read more queer books written by indie authors but none have touched me so deep than this one, so far!
It is so easy to feel with and for the characters! The book touches very sensitive themes such as love, death, abuse and cancer. But it is done with such respect for the characters and with the utmost love by the author (you can clearly feel that!).
As I said before, in February 2024 the sequel 'Pierre and Bill Now' was released, which will continue the lifestory of these two main characters. I am curious what will have happened to both during the time between the two books and whether we will see many new and even old people back from the first book. I better get reading, I guess!
January 10, 2024
Pierre & Bill: A Love Story
By Patrick Doyle
Genre - Fiction/LGBGT/Family
Pages - 316
Publication Information - Independently Published December 1, 2021, ASIN : B09FV9K15C
This was something for this gay old man to behold and fall in love with. This was a love story on so many different levels and one that I’m all too familiar with. As an older gay man I’ve found that we find our family sometimes outside our biological framing. I’m lucky enough to have a loving family in both spectrums, biological and found.
I’m also familiar with the ails that sometimes befall us at later stages in our life. I was diagnosed with HIV almost 30 years ago, I was diagnosed with COPD (emphysema) about five years ago and with diabetes about a year ago.
I have been in a monogamous relationship with the same man for 20 years this February. In bonding those two lives together I got far more than a partner for life. I also received the gift of his 2 children who I love as if they were my very own. From those children we now have 4 wonderful grandchildren who I would absolutely die for. Love is deeper, stronger and limitless when it’s felt with all your heart. This book touched my heart and made me realize, even with the ailments in my life that I would have it no other way. With each new page I was being reintroduced to myself and the life I’m living. I look at this book as a wonderful gift and one to be cherished always.
From the back cover: “Pierre and Bill have been together for nearly thirty years, ever since Bill was five. Thrown together by tragedy, they stayed together despite the many attempts to tear them apart. Some thought it wrong that a stranger should raise a child, especially when that stranger was gay. Especially, too, when the child also turns out to be gay. But Pierre and Bill would win that fight and go on to develop a unique and special bond.
Now, many years later, they’re facing a different kind of crisis. The specter of workplace abuse and financial insecurity threaten their future. When Danny shows up their lives get even more complicated, but it’s Liam’s arrival that turns their world upside down. Liam comes with Ruthie, and he has a problem of his own.
Love takes center stage. Whether as parents, children, lovers, rivals or friends, everyone wants love, fears losing it, and struggles to make room for more. But there is a villain and, if he gets his way, he'll destroy them.”
By Patrick Doyle
Genre - Fiction/LGBGT/Family
Pages - 316
Publication Information - Independently Published December 1, 2021, ASIN : B09FV9K15C
This was something for this gay old man to behold and fall in love with. This was a love story on so many different levels and one that I’m all too familiar with. As an older gay man I’ve found that we find our family sometimes outside our biological framing. I’m lucky enough to have a loving family in both spectrums, biological and found.
I’m also familiar with the ails that sometimes befall us at later stages in our life. I was diagnosed with HIV almost 30 years ago, I was diagnosed with COPD (emphysema) about five years ago and with diabetes about a year ago.
I have been in a monogamous relationship with the same man for 20 years this February. In bonding those two lives together I got far more than a partner for life. I also received the gift of his 2 children who I love as if they were my very own. From those children we now have 4 wonderful grandchildren who I would absolutely die for. Love is deeper, stronger and limitless when it’s felt with all your heart. This book touched my heart and made me realize, even with the ailments in my life that I would have it no other way. With each new page I was being reintroduced to myself and the life I’m living. I look at this book as a wonderful gift and one to be cherished always.
From the back cover: “Pierre and Bill have been together for nearly thirty years, ever since Bill was five. Thrown together by tragedy, they stayed together despite the many attempts to tear them apart. Some thought it wrong that a stranger should raise a child, especially when that stranger was gay. Especially, too, when the child also turns out to be gay. But Pierre and Bill would win that fight and go on to develop a unique and special bond.
Now, many years later, they’re facing a different kind of crisis. The specter of workplace abuse and financial insecurity threaten their future. When Danny shows up their lives get even more complicated, but it’s Liam’s arrival that turns their world upside down. Liam comes with Ruthie, and he has a problem of his own.
Love takes center stage. Whether as parents, children, lovers, rivals or friends, everyone wants love, fears losing it, and struggles to make room for more. But there is a villain and, if he gets his way, he'll destroy them.”
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