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Gay as Mardi Gras
After the demise of his relationship with his childhood sweetheart, Janey, Jesse needs to get away. His nan has just the thing: a month-long cruise around Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. It seems perfect—until Jesse realizes what kind of cruise it is.
A gay cruise.
Since Jesse’s roommate, Daniel, is recovering from a broken heart, the two decide to buddy up. They hit it off, and with Daniel now Jesse's partner in crime, they explore the boat and participate in all the fun activities on offer—with some, ah, interesting results for straight boy Jesse.
A gay cruise.
Since Jesse’s roommate, Daniel, is recovering from a broken heart, the two decide to buddy up. They hit it off, and with Daniel now Jesse's partner in crime, they explore the boat and participate in all the fun activities on offer—with some, ah, interesting results for straight boy Jesse.
77 pages, ebook
First published March 5, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
December 5, 2014
Before I start, yes, I know that this used to be fanfic. However, I honestly couldn't tell what fan-dom it was from and so I didn't mind that it was published.
For some reason, I have been lusting after this book forever. It is kind of inexplicable. I mean, why this one? I think the cover got me interested and I loved the idea of a grandma knowing her grandson was gay before he did. Super cute, right?
So I bought it. And this book is adorable. Just fluffy marshmallow fluff with some whipped cream on top. I loved the easy, breezy sexiness of it. It felt happy and light, just what I needed.
Yes, the writing is a bit clunky and awkward at times, but you know what- I didn't care! I got my sweet, lovable GFY story and I'm a happy camper.
For some reason, I have been lusting after this book forever. It is kind of inexplicable. I mean, why this one? I think the cover got me interested and I loved the idea of a grandma knowing her grandson was gay before he did. Super cute, right?
So I bought it. And this book is adorable. Just fluffy marshmallow fluff with some whipped cream on top. I loved the easy, breezy sexiness of it. It felt happy and light, just what I needed.
Yes, the writing is a bit clunky and awkward at times, but you know what- I didn't care! I got my sweet, lovable GFY story and I'm a happy camper.
September 28, 2013
On the fence on weather fanfic being published is just or not, I am sitting on it. I still don't know how I feel about the process on a whole. I did feel a bit fooled when I found out this was a Twilight fanfic, and was free on the internet. I felt a bit ripped off, so I returned the title.
Now for the story itself it was good, I enjoyed it for the simplicity of the romance. I enjoyed the foolishness of the characters, and chaos of them falling in love.
So if you don't mind paying for something that was free, just with different names I recommend this book.
For me, I didn't feel right paying for it.
Now for the story itself it was good, I enjoyed it for the simplicity of the romance. I enjoyed the foolishness of the characters, and chaos of them falling in love.
So if you don't mind paying for something that was free, just with different names I recommend this book.
For me, I didn't feel right paying for it.
March 10, 2013
First things first, I liked the cover a lot, it ties in nicely with the boys enjoyment of sudoku and crossword puzzles and it's not the typical torsos on a cruise ship cover that usually graces these type of books. Kudos.
Jesse's nan is a riot, totally irreverent and funny. She is sure Jesse is gay, as a matter of fact , she tells him he is gay as Mardi Gras. Jesse doesn't believe her, he had a long term relationship with a girl, so he can't be gay.
Once he is on the cruise his nan put him on, he notices fairly quickly that there are a lot of men on it, a lot of men making out with other men, and he starts to worry a bit.
Jesse is the narrator of this story and his thoughts are funny and not always PC, but hey, your thoughts are your own.
He is relieved to find his cabin mate is Daniel, a great guy with whom he seems to have almost everything in common,and a really great friendship ensues on the month long cruise.
Slowly things heat up between the two, but at a very believable rate and since the friendship seems to be more the focal point, is was believable to me. They don't talk about what is happening and Daniel never pushes or confronts Jesse on what they do to and with each other. In his mind Jesse is slowly working things through. There is no angst or conflict really, it's more of a slowly dawning realization, that at least for Jesse, Daniel is who he wants, not a label.
The GFY aspect was explained a bit with the premise that people in Jesse's family fall once and fall hard.
I thought it was a funny, cute and entertaining short story. A nice light read that left me smiling and wishing for an epilogue or a sequel, since the very hopeful HFN ending always leaves greedy me wanting more.
Jesse's nan is a riot, totally irreverent and funny. She is sure Jesse is gay, as a matter of fact , she tells him he is gay as Mardi Gras. Jesse doesn't believe her, he had a long term relationship with a girl, so he can't be gay.
Once he is on the cruise his nan put him on, he notices fairly quickly that there are a lot of men on it, a lot of men making out with other men, and he starts to worry a bit.
Jesse is the narrator of this story and his thoughts are funny and not always PC, but hey, your thoughts are your own.
He is relieved to find his cabin mate is Daniel, a great guy with whom he seems to have almost everything in common,and a really great friendship ensues on the month long cruise.
Slowly things heat up between the two, but at a very believable rate and since the friendship seems to be more the focal point, is was believable to me. They don't talk about what is happening and Daniel never pushes or confronts Jesse on what they do to and with each other. In his mind Jesse is slowly working things through. There is no angst or conflict really, it's more of a slowly dawning realization, that at least for Jesse, Daniel is who he wants, not a label.
The GFY aspect was explained a bit with the premise that people in Jesse's family fall once and fall hard.
I thought it was a funny, cute and entertaining short story. A nice light read that left me smiling and wishing for an epilogue or a sequel, since the very hopeful HFN ending always leaves greedy me wanting more.
Shelved as 'for-reference'
March 28, 2013Sigh. Twilight fan fiction. Because writing your own original fiction without sucking at Stephenie Meyer's teat is too fucking hard.
Once fanfic, always fanfic. Converting your OF is a weak and ridiculous excuse. It's fan fiction. Forever. Changing names and writing more words does not suddenly make it not fan fiction. You just wrote more fan fiction. It's not that hard, guys.
Oh, I forgot.
And then...
Once fanfic, always fanfic. Converting your OF is a weak and ridiculous excuse. It's fan fiction. Forever. Changing names and writing more words does not suddenly make it not fan fiction. You just wrote more fan fiction. It's not that hard, guys.
Oh, I forgot.
And then...
March 8, 2013
2.75
A bit clunky and I'm not sure about Jesse stereotyping gay men the way he does but it's funny in parts and seems a bit fairytale-ish in that the characters don't really come across as real people to me. Still it was cute even if I did cringe at some of the things that were going through the MC's head.
A bit clunky and I'm not sure about Jesse stereotyping gay men the way he does but it's funny in parts and seems a bit fairytale-ish in that the characters don't really come across as real people to me. Still it was cute even if I did cringe at some of the things that were going through the MC's head.
March 28, 2013
What a delightful book this was, so sweet and simple, yet so heartwarming, total keeper and 5 stars from me
I absolutely LOVED this book....Jesse breaks up with his childhood sweetheart, the relationship going nowhere, and Jesse's Nan decides to send him on a cruise
to help him make his mind up....she thinks he's gay, he's uncertain....so they go shopping for clothes etc., She tells him 'the Torrens men only fall in love once, you just haven't met yours yet'. He meets the ship at San Diego and of course discovers that it's a cruise for gay men. He's freaked out, but as he's already on the ship, decides that he'll continue with it as it's his Nan's wish.He meets his new cabin mate Daniel, who should be on the cruise with his partner....until his partner decided to have a romp in their bed with 2 other men. Daniel is shell-shocked, Jesse fully understands this, and they both decide to get the most out of their situation. The cruise continues for a month, and what happens whilst they're on board, you'll have to discover for yourself.
This book was funny, the MC's were hot, there was obviously romance and love in the air
. And I loved the cover....what a change to find an m/m book with a cover that you actually like!!
January 12, 2014
What a little cracker this story is! I saw a friends review and was pulled to purchase and download it straightaway, and boy am I glad I did, because this is so delightfully sexy, romantic and fun. I can honestly say, for pure lightweight enjoyment alone, its one of the best shorts I've read for a longtime. The premise of story is far fetched but Lily Velden writes it in such a lovely way that you find yourself not caring about that at all. I fell in love with every character and just lost myself in it right up to its fabulous HEA. Minimal angst, easy laid back style of writing and lovely smexy chemistry makes this a 'perfect sit back and just chill ' story. Will it give you the warm and fuzzies? Hell yeah.... In spades! Keeper :D
Edit: 11/01/14
Just had a really intense back to back reread and needed something to wind down with last night before I went to sleep. This one fit the bill perfectly! Second time round and I still adore this story by Lily. Still 5 stars and still a keeper. Makes me smile and gives me the warm and fuzzies.. Engaging MC's, sweet story, plus great love scenes.
First read in March 2013.
Edit: 11/01/14
Just had a really intense back to back reread and needed something to wind down with last night before I went to sleep. This one fit the bill perfectly! Second time round and I still adore this story by Lily. Still 5 stars and still a keeper. Makes me smile and gives me the warm and fuzzies.. Engaging MC's, sweet story, plus great love scenes.
First read in March 2013.
September 4, 2015
Short and sweet, and not descriptive enough. I have absolutely NO clue what either of these guys looks like! Well, actually, considering this used to be Twific, I guess they look a bit like Edward Cullen and maybe Jasper? I'm not sure, because there weren't a lot of personality traits here either. I also have no clue who was supposed to be which character. This is where publishing your fanfic fails readers, because while fanfic readers know who these characters are supposed to be, and don't always need so much detail, non-fic readers have no clue, we need the details, the descriptions, the personality quirks, and these two guys could have been ANYONE. Tall, short, thin, built, blond, brunet, the only clue I have is that one of the guys has blue eyes. I don't even know what they do for a living.
I know one guy is just out of college, one guy is still in college, but they both speak a bit like old fashioned men, which I guess is more of the Twific coming through. They did NOT speak like guys in their early twenties.
Edited to add: Ok, I found a copy of the fic. The original fic was only 9 PDF pages, so the author DID expand on the story a LOT. Pity she didn't remember to add any character descriptions or more than basic generic personalities. FYI, the POV(Jesse) was from the Jasper character, and the other guy (Daniel) was the Edward character.
I know one guy is just out of college, one guy is still in college, but they both speak a bit like old fashioned men, which I guess is more of the Twific coming through. They did NOT speak like guys in their early twenties.
Edited to add: Ok, I found a copy of the fic. The original fic was only 9 PDF pages, so the author DID expand on the story a LOT. Pity she didn't remember to add any character descriptions or more than basic generic personalities. FYI, the POV(Jesse) was from the Jasper character, and the other guy (Daniel) was the Edward character.
March 8, 2013
Wonderful short story, fun to read, very engaging way of story telling. Left me with a smile and I will definitely read more by Ms. Velden. Hopefully soon.
January 16, 2014
Thanks to Macky’s review I decided to pick this one up. I instantly fell in love with the characters. Jesse and his Nan had me in stitches from the first page. Any book that can do that to you in my opinion, must be good!
So what does his Nan do to show she knows what she is talking about? She books him on a gay cruise hahaha! Yes only a loving Nana would do such a crazy thing lol!
I did feel the humour wasn’t as good as the story went on which saddened me slightly, but the story and the slow relationship building up between Jesse and Daniel kept my attention till the end without it.
It is a short read but I thought the length fit this story perfectly. If it had been any longer I think it would have dragged out too much.
So the moral of this story is...listen to wise old owls as they may be right about some things ;)
Thanks Macky for inspiring me to read it I loved it mwah
Jesse's Nana is such a wise old gal! She has cottoned on to the fact her Grandson is as ‘gay as Mardi Gras’ yet he thinks she is just completely bonkers!
So what does his Nan do to show she knows what she is talking about? She books him on a gay cruise hahaha! Yes only a loving Nana would do such a crazy thing lol!
I did feel the humour wasn’t as good as the story went on which saddened me slightly, but the story and the slow relationship building up between Jesse and Daniel kept my attention till the end without it.
It is a short read but I thought the length fit this story perfectly. If it had been any longer I think it would have dragged out too much.
So the moral of this story is...listen to wise old owls as they may be right about some things ;)
Thanks Macky for inspiring me to read it I loved it mwah
April 24, 2014
I think everyone should take the time to read this. Super, super perfect shorty. I smiled the whole time I was reading. Read.
March 13, 2013
Review posted at The Armchair Reader.
3.5 stars
After taking a little over a week away from reading m/m romance (and reading Harry Potter again instead), I decided to read this as my first book back. I wanted something to ease back onto reading romance, and this worked rather well. It's light and sweet, contemporary with familiar tropes that are well-used and loved. It depends on how you look at those familiar tropes and themes as to whether you might find the same story I read and enjoyed as tired and unoriginal, but then, that's the subjectivity of reading. What I liked most about this story was that it was simple and sweet and didn't try to do anything new or outrageous.
Jesse is 22 and his six year relationship with his high school sweetheart, Janey, is finished. Back living with his Nan, his feisty and progressive grandmother, Jesse is facing the daunting thought of dating for the first time, something he doesn't really know how to do. His nan, on the other hand, has a different view. For some reason that she's reluctant to divulge, she believes him to be gay. They laugh about what seems to be her obsession with having a gay grandson, but it becomes more than a laughing matter when Jesse finds out that the month long cruise she booked him on as a surprise is actually a gay cruise.
Jesse finds comfort in his roommate, Daniel. He's gorgeous, which even Jesse admits, and depressed to be going on the vacation he had planned for himself and his boyfriend, who he found cheating on him months prior with more than one other man. Their common discomfort serves to bond them in ties of new friendship and the two spend the weeks sailing around the pacific getting to know one another and also watching out for each other's backs because of the attention they receive from the legions of young horny gay men on board.
The story is pretty straightforward, I'm sure you can guess much of it. The added Gay For You, or Out For You element means that the tension in the story comes mostly from Jesse's fear of what his new feelings for Daniel really mean, and the story's progression is marked by the baby steps he takes to reconcile his feelings. I might have liked this story less if I hadn't just had a break from reading m/m romance, honestly. There does tend to be an overabundance of stories like this -- sweet, short and dealing with one of a few major themes. However, what I feared this story might become (basically, that it would rely on melodrama to convey weight of emotion), especially in the hands of a new author, wasn't the case at all. I found the story took itself rather lightly and didn't succumb to the pitfall of major denial (on Jesse's part) and then quick resolution. In the perspective of the story, it was much more realistic than that typical approach.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this author. If I remember correctly, Lily said that she'll have a novel coming out from Dreamspinner this summer and I look forward to seeing how her writing will evolve. Recommended for those who want something light and sweet and short.
**Just a Note: the story is written in present tense from Jesse's point of view, so reader's who have problems getting into that style of writing beware. It didn't bother me, however.
3.5 stars
After taking a little over a week away from reading m/m romance (and reading Harry Potter again instead), I decided to read this as my first book back. I wanted something to ease back onto reading romance, and this worked rather well. It's light and sweet, contemporary with familiar tropes that are well-used and loved. It depends on how you look at those familiar tropes and themes as to whether you might find the same story I read and enjoyed as tired and unoriginal, but then, that's the subjectivity of reading. What I liked most about this story was that it was simple and sweet and didn't try to do anything new or outrageous.
Jesse is 22 and his six year relationship with his high school sweetheart, Janey, is finished. Back living with his Nan, his feisty and progressive grandmother, Jesse is facing the daunting thought of dating for the first time, something he doesn't really know how to do. His nan, on the other hand, has a different view. For some reason that she's reluctant to divulge, she believes him to be gay. They laugh about what seems to be her obsession with having a gay grandson, but it becomes more than a laughing matter when Jesse finds out that the month long cruise she booked him on as a surprise is actually a gay cruise.
Jesse finds comfort in his roommate, Daniel. He's gorgeous, which even Jesse admits, and depressed to be going on the vacation he had planned for himself and his boyfriend, who he found cheating on him months prior with more than one other man. Their common discomfort serves to bond them in ties of new friendship and the two spend the weeks sailing around the pacific getting to know one another and also watching out for each other's backs because of the attention they receive from the legions of young horny gay men on board.
The story is pretty straightforward, I'm sure you can guess much of it. The added Gay For You, or Out For You element means that the tension in the story comes mostly from Jesse's fear of what his new feelings for Daniel really mean, and the story's progression is marked by the baby steps he takes to reconcile his feelings. I might have liked this story less if I hadn't just had a break from reading m/m romance, honestly. There does tend to be an overabundance of stories like this -- sweet, short and dealing with one of a few major themes. However, what I feared this story might become (basically, that it would rely on melodrama to convey weight of emotion), especially in the hands of a new author, wasn't the case at all. I found the story took itself rather lightly and didn't succumb to the pitfall of major denial (on Jesse's part) and then quick resolution. In the perspective of the story, it was much more realistic than that typical approach.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this author. If I remember correctly, Lily said that she'll have a novel coming out from Dreamspinner this summer and I look forward to seeing how her writing will evolve. Recommended for those who want something light and sweet and short.
**Just a Note: the story is written in present tense from Jesse's point of view, so reader's who have problems getting into that style of writing beware. It didn't bother me, however.
March 12, 2013
Not only is this one of the cutest books I’ve ever read but its got humor to boot! I loved Jesse wit and the banter between him and his Nan was adorable. And then Daniel, he and Jesse were thrown into a situation that was uncomfortable for both but made the best of it. What starts as dread turns into something so much more.
Nan knows her grandson and she thinks if she books a vacation on a gay cruise he will soon see what he’s been missing out on. And boy does he. Jesse is very hesitant and Daniel his cruise roomie doesn’t push, he has his own hurts. They both know they aren’t looking for anything and try to enjoy this time away. And they do. They do everything together and Jesse is surprised to find a comfort he’s never felt for anyone. Daniel is a lot like him and the more time he spends with him the more he likes him.
The sexual tension between the two is electrifying. As much as Jesse wants to deny it their attraction for each other sizzles and his resolve shatters and his needs for Daniel takes over.
But he’s not gay! Or is he? He doesn’t want labels and just rides out the waves.
Jesse knows he cant play this game anymore and regardless of the fact that Daniel is a man he finally opens his heart to love.
Very sweet story of a man who finds his place in the world and finds a great love to complete him.
see all my reviews at www.upallnightreviews.blogspot.com
Nan knows her grandson and she thinks if she books a vacation on a gay cruise he will soon see what he’s been missing out on. And boy does he. Jesse is very hesitant and Daniel his cruise roomie doesn’t push, he has his own hurts. They both know they aren’t looking for anything and try to enjoy this time away. And they do. They do everything together and Jesse is surprised to find a comfort he’s never felt for anyone. Daniel is a lot like him and the more time he spends with him the more he likes him.
The sexual tension between the two is electrifying. As much as Jesse wants to deny it their attraction for each other sizzles and his resolve shatters and his needs for Daniel takes over.
But he’s not gay! Or is he? He doesn’t want labels and just rides out the waves.
Jesse knows he cant play this game anymore and regardless of the fact that Daniel is a man he finally opens his heart to love.
Very sweet story of a man who finds his place in the world and finds a great love to complete him.
see all my reviews at www.upallnightreviews.blogspot.com
March 11, 2013
Sweet story about a "straight" man's meddling grandmother tricking him into going on a month long gay cruise. Luckily, his gay roommate just had his heart broken and isn't even looking to hook-up. I thought both men were adorable and the story is pretty straight forward with absolutely no angst. Honestly it's mostly sex...which I thought it was pretty hot.
***I read this story because of the title, "Gay as Mardi Gras" which happens to be the grandmother's favorite saying about her grandson. Let it be know that this story has nothing to do with Mardi Gras and isn't even set any where near Louisiana. I, in fact, have never even heard the phrase used before...and I've lived in Louisiana all my life. Maybe it's an Australian thing...even these characters live in California?***
4 stars today because it fit my mood. Any other day it probably would have been 3 stars
***I read this story because of the title, "Gay as Mardi Gras" which happens to be the grandmother's favorite saying about her grandson. Let it be know that this story has nothing to do with Mardi Gras and isn't even set any where near Louisiana. I, in fact, have never even heard the phrase used before...and I've lived in Louisiana all my life. Maybe it's an Australian thing...even these characters live in California?***
4 stars today because it fit my mood. Any other day it probably would have been 3 stars
March 8, 2013
3.5 stars
A 22-yr old guy was tricked by his grandma to be in a month-long gay cruise. You see, despite having dated a girl for 6 years, Jeese was gay. At least that's what the grandma believed. In the cruise, he shared room with Daniel, a gay man who was just dumped by his boyfriend. Friendship bloomed. Would it lead to something else?
This is a nice, simple story. I liked reading how patient Daniel is, and that there's no WTF action by either MCs. Usually, I'd really enjoyed such story. This one, however, is a bit too simple and linear. Perhaps because it's too short.
A 22-yr old guy was tricked by his grandma to be in a month-long gay cruise. You see, despite having dated a girl for 6 years, Jeese was gay. At least that's what the grandma believed. In the cruise, he shared room with Daniel, a gay man who was just dumped by his boyfriend. Friendship bloomed. Would it lead to something else?
This is a nice, simple story. I liked reading how patient Daniel is, and that there's no WTF action by either MCs. Usually, I'd really enjoyed such story. This one, however, is a bit too simple and linear. Perhaps because it's too short.
March 28, 2013
This used to be a Twilight fanfiction called You're As Gay as Mardi Gras by Bellemeer.
P2P Twilight fan fiction no no no.
P2P Twilight fan fiction no no no.
March 24, 2014
A really sweet and funny story that I thought was completely charming. A perfect vacation read.
March 14, 2013
What a cute story!
Jesse's Nana is trying to help him discover himself. Jesse doesn't know where he fits in. Even though his relationship with Janine didn't work out, didn't mean he didn't like girls, just meant he hasn't found his one.
The one thing about Jesse's family is once they find the one they're supposed to love, its forever.
Nanna books a month long cruise for Jesse in hopes to help him find his "one"
The only thing that Nanna failed to mention, the Cruise was full of gays. Yeah, by the time Jesse realized it, it was too late.
Ready to embrace this month long cruise with his back up against the wall, he makes his way to his cabin. Meeting Daniel, his new roommate, Didn't matter if you were a guy, girl, kid, or grandmother, Daniel was HOT!
But Daniel wasn't looking all that excited about a month long cruise. When Jesse asked him, Daniel told him about his bad break-up.
Seeing the pain in Daniel's eyes was just wrong. Daniel was too beautiful to have sadness inside of him.
Something brought out the protectiveness in Jesse. Something that vowed to make Daniel smile and keep him safe.
As the cruise kicks off, Daniel and Jesse hang out and have a great time. Realizing they have more in common than one would think.
And when things kick up a notch and Jesse is finding other ways to make Daniel smile... well, he still can't except it. He doesn't want to label himself, he just wants to go with it.
This is a fun, Hot and sweet story - a quick read that will leaving you feeling happy :)
Jesse's Nana is trying to help him discover himself. Jesse doesn't know where he fits in. Even though his relationship with Janine didn't work out, didn't mean he didn't like girls, just meant he hasn't found his one.
The one thing about Jesse's family is once they find the one they're supposed to love, its forever.
Nanna books a month long cruise for Jesse in hopes to help him find his "one"
The only thing that Nanna failed to mention, the Cruise was full of gays. Yeah, by the time Jesse realized it, it was too late.
Ready to embrace this month long cruise with his back up against the wall, he makes his way to his cabin. Meeting Daniel, his new roommate, Didn't matter if you were a guy, girl, kid, or grandmother, Daniel was HOT!
But Daniel wasn't looking all that excited about a month long cruise. When Jesse asked him, Daniel told him about his bad break-up.
Seeing the pain in Daniel's eyes was just wrong. Daniel was too beautiful to have sadness inside of him.
Something brought out the protectiveness in Jesse. Something that vowed to make Daniel smile and keep him safe.
As the cruise kicks off, Daniel and Jesse hang out and have a great time. Realizing they have more in common than one would think.
And when things kick up a notch and Jesse is finding other ways to make Daniel smile... well, he still can't except it. He doesn't want to label himself, he just wants to go with it.
This is a fun, Hot and sweet story - a quick read that will leaving you feeling happy :)
September 16, 2013
Absolutely adorable (in a good way) story about a young guy who has been own in the dumps since splitting with his long-term girlfriend and as a gift from his very wise grandma takes a month long cruise. Happens to be a gay cruise. Grandma is indeed very wise ;) Jesse hits it off immediately with his room mate Daniel who was also quite down in the dumps after having been used and discarded by the man who was supposed to be on the cruise with him.
These two are so cute together and I just really enjoyed the way their relationship developed over the course of the month that they spent together. It really is a journey of discovery for Jesse and it turns out Grandma really does know best :)
I hope to read more from this author because I really liked the way she told this story from Jesse's POV. Nicely done!
These two are so cute together and I just really enjoyed the way their relationship developed over the course of the month that they spent together. It really is a journey of discovery for Jesse and it turns out Grandma really does know best :)
I hope to read more from this author because I really liked the way she told this story from Jesse's POV. Nicely done!
March 6, 2013
This was a beautiful story. There was very little angst, just a man learning who he is. I liked the simplicity of two men becoming friends first and then falling in love. This was a short story but was written so well that more is not needed. But I will be first in line to pre order if she writes another with these characters. And I will definitely be watching for other books.
March 18, 2013
3,7* for this sweet and funny feel-good read.
I would love to meet this couple again.
I would love to meet this couple again.
May 6, 2013
If you can’t count on your family in a time of emotional distress, just who exactly can you count on? Luckily for Jesse Torrens, his Nan is on the job. Determined to see her favorite grandson achieve the happiness and love he deserves, Nana Torres will stop at nothing until he finally does. The question is, to what lengths will she go for her only grandson? Even more importantly, will Jesse endure her plotting?
Jesse is quite the character, and it’s no wonder once you meet his nan. He’s open minded and honest. Honest enough to give the month-long gay cruise his nan signed him up for the old college try. The idea that he’s game enough to go on the cruise and enjoy it for what it is – a way to get away from his troubles at home – was a nice twist. He put up little argument and trusted his grandmother’s instincts. I really loved Jesse’s character and watching the truth become clear for him was a real treat.
Daniel is an emotional wreck. After having booked the cruise for himself and his then boyfriend, he discovers that the now ex-boyfriend had been cheating in a most magnificent manner. I loved that despite the heartache, Daniel was determined to take the trip anyway and have a good time. Having the amusing and fun loving Jesse as a cabin mate helped. The thing I enjoyed the most about Daniel was that, although knowing his roommate was straight, he still managed to coerce Jesse into dressing up for all the cruise’s theme nights, if for no other reason than to give the other boys something to look at. And that Jesse went along with it all only made it more fun.
Gay as Mardi Gras is one of the funniest and most honest books I’ve read this year. I actually devoured this short novel in a few hours’ time, laughing until my sides hurt. Watching Daniel overcome his heartache and seeing Jesse discover something so important about himself was a delight. The author has a real knack for humorous dialogue and embarrassing situations. An amazingly funny and sweet book, Gay as Mardi Gras is a winner of a short novel.
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
Jesse is quite the character, and it’s no wonder once you meet his nan. He’s open minded and honest. Honest enough to give the month-long gay cruise his nan signed him up for the old college try. The idea that he’s game enough to go on the cruise and enjoy it for what it is – a way to get away from his troubles at home – was a nice twist. He put up little argument and trusted his grandmother’s instincts. I really loved Jesse’s character and watching the truth become clear for him was a real treat.
Daniel is an emotional wreck. After having booked the cruise for himself and his then boyfriend, he discovers that the now ex-boyfriend had been cheating in a most magnificent manner. I loved that despite the heartache, Daniel was determined to take the trip anyway and have a good time. Having the amusing and fun loving Jesse as a cabin mate helped. The thing I enjoyed the most about Daniel was that, although knowing his roommate was straight, he still managed to coerce Jesse into dressing up for all the cruise’s theme nights, if for no other reason than to give the other boys something to look at. And that Jesse went along with it all only made it more fun.
Gay as Mardi Gras is one of the funniest and most honest books I’ve read this year. I actually devoured this short novel in a few hours’ time, laughing until my sides hurt. Watching Daniel overcome his heartache and seeing Jesse discover something so important about himself was a delight. The author has a real knack for humorous dialogue and embarrassing situations. An amazingly funny and sweet book, Gay as Mardi Gras is a winner of a short novel.
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
March 5, 2013
This was a wonderful short story about Jesse discovering some things about himself. Following the break up with his girlfriend of six years, his Nan sends him on a month long cruise. He’s a bit shocked to find out he’s on a gay cruise but it’s a cruise and he’s going to enjoy it, damn it. He finds an ally in Daniel, his assigned roommate. Neither man is interested in finding love on the cruise which creates an easy companionship between the two. They decide to keep the other men on the cruise away from each other which keeps them in close proximity with each other and feelings develop.
I liked that Jesse didn’t just see Daniel and have instant lust for him. They became friends and realized how much they have in common. The sexual attraction kind of snuck up on Jesse. I think being on the cruise ended up being a blessing in that Jesse was able to explore that attraction without any outside negative influences. He never has to deal with disapproving looks or deal with prejudice from anybody. He feels some jealousy and the need to protect Daniel but that just helps things along in their relationship. Daniel didn’t push for more than what Jesse was comfortable with physically or emotionally. The love story had a really nice and believable progression. I love an instant lust story don’t get me wrong, but this seemed like a very real gay for you type story. In the end, he didn’t want just any man, he wanted Daniel.
I’m pretty happy I was given this book to review. There was so much packed in so few pages. Not a lot of stories this length seem complete, but this did. It was sexy, sweet and funny. I’d love to read more about Daniel and Jesse’s journey but I’m pretty happy the way it was left, too
Review can also be found at http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
I liked that Jesse didn’t just see Daniel and have instant lust for him. They became friends and realized how much they have in common. The sexual attraction kind of snuck up on Jesse. I think being on the cruise ended up being a blessing in that Jesse was able to explore that attraction without any outside negative influences. He never has to deal with disapproving looks or deal with prejudice from anybody. He feels some jealousy and the need to protect Daniel but that just helps things along in their relationship. Daniel didn’t push for more than what Jesse was comfortable with physically or emotionally. The love story had a really nice and believable progression. I love an instant lust story don’t get me wrong, but this seemed like a very real gay for you type story. In the end, he didn’t want just any man, he wanted Daniel.
I’m pretty happy I was given this book to review. There was so much packed in so few pages. Not a lot of stories this length seem complete, but this did. It was sexy, sweet and funny. I’d love to read more about Daniel and Jesse’s journey but I’m pretty happy the way it was left, too
Review can also be found at http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
February 14, 2013
Jesse believes he's straight. He's dated his high school sweetheart for years, but just recently broke up. His grandmother, however, thinks differently. She decides to send him on a month-long cruise to help him discover himself. Excited at the prospect of adventure and relaxation for an entire month, Jesse jumps at the opportunity. However, he is surprised when he discovers that his grandmother booked him for a gay cruise. Figuring he'll make the best out of the situation, he accepts his fate. His roommate, Daniel, has just broken up with his philandering boyfriend and is in no way looking for love, so the two men decide to watch each other's backs and develop a really sweet friendship that could possibly turn into much, much more.
I really enjoyed this adorable and romantic story. Jesse's struggle with his sexuality was portrayed realistically and it was nice to see his relationship with Daniel progress at a slower pace. There is no insta-love in this book. Insta-lust, sure, but Jesse and Daniel truly get to know each other before the thought of becoming more even popped into their heads.
If you're looking for a heartwarming, feel-good story, this is definitely one to check out!
The author provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this adorable and romantic story. Jesse's struggle with his sexuality was portrayed realistically and it was nice to see his relationship with Daniel progress at a slower pace. There is no insta-love in this book. Insta-lust, sure, but Jesse and Daniel truly get to know each other before the thought of becoming more even popped into their heads.
If you're looking for a heartwarming, feel-good story, this is definitely one to check out!
The author provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 24, 2014
I really enjoyed this story. Gay for you is always a favorite for me and I liked the author's handling of the slow buildup to romance. Jesse was so clueless about his own sexuality that it was funny, and I absolutely loved his grandmother. My kind of woman! Daniel handled the romance so well, without blundering or offending Jesse as "Jez" came to terms with his need for Daniel. I had to create a new shelf for this one, "sweet", 'cause it's one of those that just leave me feeling good.
August 13, 2014
A nice concept that was a bit too fluffy & saccharine for my taste ... the redeeming factor was that is wasn't insta-love (much) which meant we got to see a budding romance rather than 'slam, bam, thank'ya man' type of holiday romance ... if you want something quick & easy to clear your literary palate, then this book will work for you ... don't expect too much & you won't be disappointed.
March 9, 2013
Noooooooooooo it can't be over! Omg I loved this book. Both of the MC's were so sweet and the build up was hot and so so sweet. Daniel was so patient with Jesse and not once did either of them annoy me. I wanted to be on the cruise with them, lol I really do hope there's another book with them.
March 14, 2013
Short, cute book. Nothing extra special, a little too flowery on the descriptions but not bad.
December 21, 2014
A cute story! Unrealistic, but still enjoyable! Makes me wish I had a Nan who would send me on a month long cruise to Hawaii :)
Shelved as 'never'
March 29, 2013Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews