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Family Man
"Sometimes family chooses you. "
How does a man get to be forty without knowing whether he's gay? That's a question Vince Fierro is almost afraid to answer. If he is gay, it'll be a problem for his big, fat Italian family. Still, after three failed marriages, he can't help but wonder if he's been playing for the wrong team.
There's only one way to settle it, once and for all-head for Chicago's Boystown bars, far from anyone who knows him. Naturally, he runs smack into someone from the neighborhood.
Between working two jobs, going to school, taking care of his grandmother, and dealing with his mother's ongoing substance abuse, Trey Giles has little time for fun, let alone dating someone who swears he's straight. Yet after one night of dancing cheek-to-cheek to the sultry strains of Coltrane, Trey finds himself wanting to help Vinnie figure things out-no promises, and no sex.
It seems like a simple plan, until their "no-sex" night turns into the best date of their lives and forges a connection that complicates everything.
This book deals with alcoholism, broken promises, and overbearing little sisters.
How does a man get to be forty without knowing whether he's gay? That's a question Vince Fierro is almost afraid to answer. If he is gay, it'll be a problem for his big, fat Italian family. Still, after three failed marriages, he can't help but wonder if he's been playing for the wrong team.
There's only one way to settle it, once and for all-head for Chicago's Boystown bars, far from anyone who knows him. Naturally, he runs smack into someone from the neighborhood.
Between working two jobs, going to school, taking care of his grandmother, and dealing with his mother's ongoing substance abuse, Trey Giles has little time for fun, let alone dating someone who swears he's straight. Yet after one night of dancing cheek-to-cheek to the sultry strains of Coltrane, Trey finds himself wanting to help Vinnie figure things out-no promises, and no sex.
It seems like a simple plan, until their "no-sex" night turns into the best date of their lives and forges a connection that complicates everything.
This book deals with alcoholism, broken promises, and overbearing little sisters.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2013
92 people are currently reading
2649 people want to read
About the author
Heidi Cullinan
50 books2,874 followersAuthor of over thirty novels, Midwest-native Heidi Cullinan writes positive-outcome romances for LGBT characters struggling against insurmountable odds because they believe there’s no such thing as too much happy ever after. Heidi’s books have been recommended by Library Journal, USA Today, RT Magazine, and Publishers Weekly. When Heidi isn’t writing, they enjoy gaming, reading manga, manhua, and danmei, playing with cats, and watching too much anime.
Heidi goes by Jun when being spoken to in person or online, and Jun’s pronouns are they/them.
Heidi goes by Jun when being spoken to in person or online, and Jun’s pronouns are they/them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 604 reviews
September 25, 2017
*3.75 stars*
An oldie but a goodie.
Honestly, I feel like I shouldn't have enjoyed this book as much as I did. For one, it switches from first person to third person from chapter to chapter, which should have driven me absolutely bonkers. It also features the typical Italian macho man stereotypes and a depressing alcoholic mother storyline, both of which are usually things that I don't enjoy.
But, alas, a coming out story (in his 40s!), a virgin, and an age gap make me a VERY happy girl.
I really like Heidi Cullinan and Marie Sexton separately, so it's no surprise that I like them together. Their writing styles blended well, and I think they made a nice team.
The story was super easy to read, and I raced through it in a little over a day. It was angsty without being over-the-top (though the horrible mother almost pushed me over the edge), but relationship-wise, it was pretty smooth sailing. I liked the chemistry of the two MCs together, and I REALLY liked some of the surprises that they had up their sleeve in the bedroom. Could have used even more heat, though, to be honest.
Overall, I don't think you could go wrong with this one, especially if you are a sucker for an older MC coming out for the first time. And, as is Heidi Cullinan's style, that ending will satisfy all readers who love to feel that "awwwww" at the end of a romance.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
An oldie but a goodie.
Honestly, I feel like I shouldn't have enjoyed this book as much as I did. For one, it switches from first person to third person from chapter to chapter, which should have driven me absolutely bonkers. It also features the typical Italian macho man stereotypes and a depressing alcoholic mother storyline, both of which are usually things that I don't enjoy.
But, alas, a coming out story (in his 40s!), a virgin, and an age gap make me a VERY happy girl.
I really like Heidi Cullinan and Marie Sexton separately, so it's no surprise that I like them together. Their writing styles blended well, and I think they made a nice team.
The story was super easy to read, and I raced through it in a little over a day. It was angsty without being over-the-top (though the horrible mother almost pushed me over the edge), but relationship-wise, it was pretty smooth sailing. I liked the chemistry of the two MCs together, and I REALLY liked some of the surprises that they had up their sleeve in the bedroom. Could have used even more heat, though, to be honest.
Overall, I don't think you could go wrong with this one, especially if you are a sucker for an older MC coming out for the first time. And, as is Heidi Cullinan's style, that ending will satisfy all readers who love to feel that "awwwww" at the end of a romance.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
October 12, 2015
Re-read Oct. 2015: 5 stars! Awesome book to re-read.
Super yummy romantic read!!!
Heidi Cullinan and Marie Sexton are keeping the M/M romance front and center with this charming tale of a thrice divorced Italian boy from a large Catholic family, Vinnie, who finds himself ready, at the late age of 38, to finally come to terms with his attraction to men. He quickly falls for young, down on his luck, Trey, and they take their relationship nice and slow, which makes for a beautiful romance between the two. I simply loved this book!
If you like strong, big, loud families who aren't afraid to speak their mind, big, hunky Italian men with a warm and fuzzy side, hard working, down on their luck virginal college boys looking for love, I can 100% recommend this book. You will absolutely fall in love with Vinnie and Trey. My only complaint with this book is that I would have loved to have had an epilogue.
Super yummy romantic read!!!
Heidi Cullinan and Marie Sexton are keeping the M/M romance front and center with this charming tale of a thrice divorced Italian boy from a large Catholic family, Vinnie, who finds himself ready, at the late age of 38, to finally come to terms with his attraction to men. He quickly falls for young, down on his luck, Trey, and they take their relationship nice and slow, which makes for a beautiful romance between the two. I simply loved this book!
If you like strong, big, loud families who aren't afraid to speak their mind, big, hunky Italian men with a warm and fuzzy side, hard working, down on their luck virginal college boys looking for love, I can 100% recommend this book. You will absolutely fall in love with Vinnie and Trey. My only complaint with this book is that I would have loved to have had an epilogue.
March 13, 2013
3.5 stars…
Every Thanksgiving and Christmas I dread going home to my HUGE Korean extended family...aunts, uncles, and cousins (so many cousins)...forcing food down my mouth, nagging me about marriage and kids and jobs and life. I also LOVE it to death...because...well, it’s FAMILY!
“Family Man” was the Italian version of the Lee Family holiday...except it’s about 2 gay men…and there’s actually a couple involved...and there’s a lot more angst. Close enough.
Vince is an Italian Mafioso - j/k, he’s actually a plumber...with an MBA (huh?); a commitment-phobe in relationships (3 divorces), jobs (all over the place), and sexual orientation (Am I gay? Maybe I’m not gay? Am I bi? Maybe I’m not bi?)
Trey is 10+ years his junior – a kid from the neighborhood, working 2 jobs, trying to put himself through school, taking care of his Grams, and trying hard not to be overwhelmed by his guilt for wanted his alcoholic mother out of his life. Oh yeah, and he’s a virgin.
They are an unlikely pair who find themselves in love. And gosh darnit...it’s sweet! We get to experience Vince and Trey dating, falling for each other, seeing each other through all kinds of life’s struggles, and watching their love and commitment strengthen.
The POV changes from chapter to chapter (Vince’s in 3rd, Trey’s in 1st person...wut?) were confusing and at times annoying. And to be honest, the story really is all over the place.
BUT...I just really liked these 2 together...and I loved the BIG ITALIAN FAMILY coming together through thick and thin.
Enjoyable.
June 28, 2018
3.75 Hearts
This book has been in my TBR mountain since forever so I pounced when it came up in audio. Before I go into my thoughts on the book, let me just say that Colin Darcy did a wonderful job narrating. His Vinnie put a smile on my face repeatedly. My experience with Italian Americans is limited to The Sopranos so I've no clue if it's spot on or too much but I LOVED it. His Trey melted my heart. It was the sweetest voice! I don't know what he did to his voice for Trey but the timbre or whatever melted my butter. So, I will be actively looking for other books narrated by him in the future.
There are few tropes I like more than the age difference one and Family Man put the additional twist on of both men being virgins too! Well, Vinnie's only a virgin in same sex relations, but regardless I really liked this twist because it sort of leveled the playing field between them.
Vinnie having struck out in the marriage department three times decides maybe it's time to try to explore those attractions he's sublimated since college. Trey makes him feel things he's never felt before, things that are confusing and wonderful simultaneously.
What I liked so much about Vinnie was his authenticity. He's from a big, loud, very close knit family and they're important to him; he doesn't want to lose them. He also is falling hard for Trey and doesn't want to shortchange him either. The gamut of emotions he runs all felt very genuine, heartfelt and without artifice. He says what he thinks and does what he says he's going to. He also embraces his desires even though he fears being emasculated by them.
Trey is from the opposite end of the family spectrum. He's had to be self-reliant his whole life because his mother is an alcoholic. He has his gram but they are struggling to make ends meet and they are proud people. I could talk ad nauseam about Trey's childhood and how that probably relates to him still being a virgin who's waiting for The One at 25, but I won't. Suffice to say, he and Vinnie have much to learn from each other.
Family Man is a slow burn with oodles of UST and not a whole lot of sex, but their connection to and desire for one another is on display through both of their perspectives. However I would've liked more focus on their relationship development. There were so many things that occurred off page. Were this a movie a montage would've likely sufficed to show them spending more and more time together but as it stands it's just time jumps of them still being together and offhand references to past events.
I appreciated how the differentiation in their families was illustrated. Vinnie's family takes over.; if you're "family", you're family and they're in your life whereas Trey has had to live with disappointment. As someone with alcoholics in her family I felt for Trey, identified with his anger and respected his wariness. However, I think the focus shifted away from Vinnie and Trey to Trey's dysfunctional relationship with his mother towards the end. Unfortunately, the romance never regained traction and that overshadowing of the romance left me wanting. The ending felt rushed and left me wondering what about gram? what about Trey's mother? are the Fierro's just going to babysit her forever?
Unquestionably the ending is sweet and affecting but it also felt a wee bit disingenuous and I wasn't there yet. I needed Vinnie and Trey to have more time together. Another couple of chapters with them together, being fully immersed in each other's lives and getting acclimated to being out with Vinnie's family would've gone a long way.
Nevertheless, it's still a worthwhile read especially with regard to coming of age no matter your age and embracing who you are even if that person bucks traditional stereotypes.
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
Sooooo much to like!
This book has been in my TBR mountain since forever so I pounced when it came up in audio. Before I go into my thoughts on the book, let me just say that Colin Darcy did a wonderful job narrating. His Vinnie put a smile on my face repeatedly. My experience with Italian Americans is limited to The Sopranos so I've no clue if it's spot on or too much but I LOVED it. His Trey melted my heart. It was the sweetest voice! I don't know what he did to his voice for Trey but the timbre or whatever melted my butter. So, I will be actively looking for other books narrated by him in the future.
There are few tropes I like more than the age difference one and Family Man put the additional twist on of both men being virgins too! Well, Vinnie's only a virgin in same sex relations, but regardless I really liked this twist because it sort of leveled the playing field between them.
Vinnie having struck out in the marriage department three times decides maybe it's time to try to explore those attractions he's sublimated since college. Trey makes him feel things he's never felt before, things that are confusing and wonderful simultaneously.
What I liked so much about Vinnie was his authenticity. He's from a big, loud, very close knit family and they're important to him; he doesn't want to lose them. He also is falling hard for Trey and doesn't want to shortchange him either. The gamut of emotions he runs all felt very genuine, heartfelt and without artifice. He says what he thinks and does what he says he's going to. He also embraces his desires even though he fears being emasculated by them.
Trey is from the opposite end of the family spectrum. He's had to be self-reliant his whole life because his mother is an alcoholic. He has his gram but they are struggling to make ends meet and they are proud people. I could talk ad nauseam about Trey's childhood and how that probably relates to him still being a virgin who's waiting for The One at 25, but I won't. Suffice to say, he and Vinnie have much to learn from each other.
Family Man is a slow burn with oodles of UST and not a whole lot of sex, but their connection to and desire for one another is on display through both of their perspectives. However I would've liked more focus on their relationship development. There were so many things that occurred off page. Were this a movie a montage would've likely sufficed to show them spending more and more time together but as it stands it's just time jumps of them still being together and offhand references to past events.
I appreciated how the differentiation in their families was illustrated. Vinnie's family takes over.; if you're "family", you're family and they're in your life whereas Trey has had to live with disappointment. As someone with alcoholics in her family I felt for Trey, identified with his anger and respected his wariness. However, I think the focus shifted away from Vinnie and Trey to Trey's dysfunctional relationship with his mother towards the end. Unfortunately, the romance never regained traction and that overshadowing of the romance left me wanting. The ending felt rushed and left me wondering what about gram? what about Trey's mother? are the Fierro's just going to babysit her forever?
Unquestionably the ending is sweet and affecting but it also felt a wee bit disingenuous and I wasn't there yet. I needed Vinnie and Trey to have more time together. Another couple of chapters with them together, being fully immersed in each other's lives and getting acclimated to being out with Vinnie's family would've gone a long way.
Nevertheless, it's still a worthwhile read especially with regard to coming of age no matter your age and embracing who you are even if that person bucks traditional stereotypes.
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
March 14, 2013
This is a lovely story about two men who give each other the chance to stop just existing, and really live.
Vince is finally, after three failed marriages, letting himself face the fact that the failures may have been because he was marrying women. He has a big, loving, intrusive and Catholic family, and family is very important in his life. But when he wants arms around him, he's beginning to realize that he wants them to belong to another man - even if that sets him at odds with his family's church, and maybe with people he loves. When, with the encouragement of his sister, he finally looks around at gay men, his eyes light on Trey and never move on.
Trey is twelve years younger than Vinnie but has been out of the closet for a decade. Years of having to be both breadwinner and responsible adult in his family make him more sober and mature than most 25-year-olds. Coping with two jobs, school, an alcoholic mother and elderly grandmother doesn't leave much time for other things so Trey doesn't date. In his experience gay dates move rapidly toward sex, and Trey wants to build a relationship more slowly. When he finally gets to the point of having sex, he wants it to mean something. In Vinnie, he finds a man who is willing to give him that time, and who in fact needs some time of his own. From the first dance together, they realize they fit, in each other's arms and lives and eventually beds. But the pressures of family expectations and family needs threaten their slowly-building happiness.
I really liked the depiction of addiction from the viewpoint of someone who's been living with an addict for so long. The weary pain and deep fatigue and the erosions of trust and caring caused by lying and broken promises rang very true. Trey's reactions felt real, and the only question was how he'd coped so well until now - an admirably strong young man.
Vinnie was wonderful - sweet, patient, supportive, enthusiastic, and only occasionally tentative in his relationship with Trey. He's the man I'd like to give to just about every young person I know - the one who will make them feel wanted and safe and loved. There is hurt and comfort in here, but while some potential conflicts pan out, others are diffused with a minimum of drama. The thing that struck me most was the warmth of this book, of both the love story and the family story. Not, in the end, as emotional as I thought it might be, but instead a slowly building accolade to the benefits of sharing pain and sharing joy, and having both lover and family to do that with. A comfort re-read for sure.
Vince is finally, after three failed marriages, letting himself face the fact that the failures may have been because he was marrying women. He has a big, loving, intrusive and Catholic family, and family is very important in his life. But when he wants arms around him, he's beginning to realize that he wants them to belong to another man - even if that sets him at odds with his family's church, and maybe with people he loves. When, with the encouragement of his sister, he finally looks around at gay men, his eyes light on Trey and never move on.
Trey is twelve years younger than Vinnie but has been out of the closet for a decade. Years of having to be both breadwinner and responsible adult in his family make him more sober and mature than most 25-year-olds. Coping with two jobs, school, an alcoholic mother and elderly grandmother doesn't leave much time for other things so Trey doesn't date. In his experience gay dates move rapidly toward sex, and Trey wants to build a relationship more slowly. When he finally gets to the point of having sex, he wants it to mean something. In Vinnie, he finds a man who is willing to give him that time, and who in fact needs some time of his own. From the first dance together, they realize they fit, in each other's arms and lives and eventually beds. But the pressures of family expectations and family needs threaten their slowly-building happiness.
I really liked the depiction of addiction from the viewpoint of someone who's been living with an addict for so long. The weary pain and deep fatigue and the erosions of trust and caring caused by lying and broken promises rang very true. Trey's reactions felt real, and the only question was how he'd coped so well until now - an admirably strong young man.
Vinnie was wonderful - sweet, patient, supportive, enthusiastic, and only occasionally tentative in his relationship with Trey. He's the man I'd like to give to just about every young person I know - the one who will make them feel wanted and safe and loved. There is hurt and comfort in here, but while some potential conflicts pan out, others are diffused with a minimum of drama. The thing that struck me most was the warmth of this book, of both the love story and the family story. Not, in the end, as emotional as I thought it might be, but instead a slowly building accolade to the benefits of sharing pain and sharing joy, and having both lover and family to do that with. A comfort re-read for sure.
February 28, 2019
Family Man wasn’t at all what I was expecting in a story written by Marie Sexton and Heidi Cullinan. This is such an intimate look into the lives of two completely different men. Both men’s current existence, based so much on what has happened to them over their lives, is gradually revealed as the story progresses.
Of course I expected a happy ending, but the twists and turns of how these two get there is riveting.
There’s a lot going on in Family Man. Between Vinnie’s journey of self discovery (he’s almost 40 and has never had a satisfying relationship with a woman) and Trey dealing with how his mother’s addictions have taken over his life, the authors set the stage for these two to come together perfectly.
One thing I thought was interesting and very well done is the alternating points of view. Trey is always done in the first person while Vince’s part of the story is always in the third. I was pretty far into the book before I really noticed this, and it struck me how differently I related to the characters just from this one trick. I feel like I got to know Vince more slowly, insights into his character were gleaned over time, and I wasn’t completely convinced he was on the level for awhile. I’m guilty of judging him based on his appearance and typecasting him from his family and their role in the community. As his history is revealed, I started to take him seriously. There’s a lot more to him than meets the eye.
Trey’s character is clear right from the start. He’s a 25 year old man who is bound by his circumstances. He can’t live away from his mother and grandma, he can’t afford to finish school, and he has to work two jobs to make ends meet. He’s drowning under all these pressures and still trying to carve a little life out for himself as well. Doing Trey in the first person lent an intimacy to his character, and the authors totally pull it off.
The man Vince has known, the boy from the block, Trey outwardly appears happy and secure. As these guys get to know each other, and Vince sees what’s really going on, his need to take care of others totally takes over.
I really appreciate the way Trey’s mother’s addictions are dealt with in this story. Trey refuses to allow her to use the crutch of calling it a “disease” or an “illness”. He’s been the victim of her selfishness his whole life and just can’t tolerate it any longer. Living with her keeps him from being “normal” and has destroyed his and his grandmother’s lives. Her repeatedly broken promises have made him afraid to trust and let others get close to him.
The point Trey makes about alcoholics and addicts, how allowing them to call what they have a disease, really hit me. Trey explains that a disease is something that can’t be helped, but an addict has a choice and keeps making their decision over and over again. They choose to dismiss the other people in their lives in favor of their addiction. Growing up with this as a constant factor in his life has really hurt him, and Trey’s story broke my heart.
This is such a sweet, slow-burn of a love story, beautifully crafted with the alternating points of view and all the fun glimpses of life in Chicago.
I fell in love with Vince’s large, traditional Italian-American family and all the humor that went with it. The insight into Trey’s heart and everything he has to deal with in his world really touched me. Family Man is far more than a contemporary romance.
Of course I expected a happy ending, but the twists and turns of how these two get there is riveting.
There’s a lot going on in Family Man. Between Vinnie’s journey of self discovery (he’s almost 40 and has never had a satisfying relationship with a woman) and Trey dealing with how his mother’s addictions have taken over his life, the authors set the stage for these two to come together perfectly.
One thing I thought was interesting and very well done is the alternating points of view. Trey is always done in the first person while Vince’s part of the story is always in the third. I was pretty far into the book before I really noticed this, and it struck me how differently I related to the characters just from this one trick. I feel like I got to know Vince more slowly, insights into his character were gleaned over time, and I wasn’t completely convinced he was on the level for awhile. I’m guilty of judging him based on his appearance and typecasting him from his family and their role in the community. As his history is revealed, I started to take him seriously. There’s a lot more to him than meets the eye.
Trey’s character is clear right from the start. He’s a 25 year old man who is bound by his circumstances. He can’t live away from his mother and grandma, he can’t afford to finish school, and he has to work two jobs to make ends meet. He’s drowning under all these pressures and still trying to carve a little life out for himself as well. Doing Trey in the first person lent an intimacy to his character, and the authors totally pull it off.
The man Vince has known, the boy from the block, Trey outwardly appears happy and secure. As these guys get to know each other, and Vince sees what’s really going on, his need to take care of others totally takes over.
I really appreciate the way Trey’s mother’s addictions are dealt with in this story. Trey refuses to allow her to use the crutch of calling it a “disease” or an “illness”. He’s been the victim of her selfishness his whole life and just can’t tolerate it any longer. Living with her keeps him from being “normal” and has destroyed his and his grandmother’s lives. Her repeatedly broken promises have made him afraid to trust and let others get close to him.
The point Trey makes about alcoholics and addicts, how allowing them to call what they have a disease, really hit me. Trey explains that a disease is something that can’t be helped, but an addict has a choice and keeps making their decision over and over again. They choose to dismiss the other people in their lives in favor of their addiction. Growing up with this as a constant factor in his life has really hurt him, and Trey’s story broke my heart.
This is such a sweet, slow-burn of a love story, beautifully crafted with the alternating points of view and all the fun glimpses of life in Chicago.
I fell in love with Vince’s large, traditional Italian-American family and all the humor that went with it. The insight into Trey’s heart and everything he has to deal with in his world really touched me. Family Man is far more than a contemporary romance.
March 13, 2013
Another wonderful Heidi and Marie collaboration!
What I loved:
♦ Trey and Vin...of course!! Vin, the big, manly Italian who needed to accept a few things about to himself. And Trey, the younger out and proud gay man. I loved the tenderness and passion between them.
♦ The date that wasn't date...very sweet
♦ The "no sex rule"...while providing prolonged sexual tension, it just felt right in their relationship to wait. No rush right? While all the kissing and making out was hot, when they finally made love it was beautiful and scorching!
♦ Trey's grandmother...she easily accepted the relationship between Vin and Trey. And even provided a home for Trey's stupid, selfish mother.
♦ Vin's sister...I loved how she was nearly the female version of Vin and how she totally supported him 100%, even though she didn't understand sometimes
♦ "The Family"...enough said
What didn't bother me at all:
♦ The age difference: Trey was a very mature 25 year old and had been the main provider for his family for many years. Not your average college student. He was responsible and perfect for Vin, but Vin did fall into a role of protector over Trey. Don't worry, there was NO creepy daddy kink or anything like that.
♦ The point of view changes: Vin's pov was written in 3rd person, while Trey's pov was written in 1st. Odd...maybe? But DID NOT hinder my enjoyment of the story for even a second.
What I hated:
♦ Trey's mother and her selfishness. I thought the destruction from her alcoholism was very well portrayed in this story.
In summary, this was a very sweet GFY story with TONS of sexual tension and very little angst. Perfect for me.
Please tell me this will not be the last Heidi and Marie together!
What I loved:
♦ Trey and Vin...of course!! Vin, the big, manly Italian who needed to accept a few things about to himself. And Trey, the younger out and proud gay man. I loved the tenderness and passion between them.
♦ The date that wasn't date...very sweet
♦ The "no sex rule"...while providing prolonged sexual tension, it just felt right in their relationship to wait. No rush right? While all the kissing and making out was hot, when they finally made love it was beautiful and scorching!
♦ Trey's grandmother...she easily accepted the relationship between Vin and Trey. And even provided a home for Trey's stupid, selfish mother.
♦ Vin's sister...I loved how she was nearly the female version of Vin and how she totally supported him 100%, even though she didn't understand sometimes
♦ "The Family"...enough said
What didn't bother me at all:
♦ The age difference: Trey was a very mature 25 year old and had been the main provider for his family for many years. Not your average college student. He was responsible and perfect for Vin, but Vin did fall into a role of protector over Trey. Don't worry, there was NO creepy daddy kink or anything like that.
♦ The point of view changes: Vin's pov was written in 3rd person, while Trey's pov was written in 1st. Odd...maybe? But DID NOT hinder my enjoyment of the story for even a second.
What I hated:
♦ Trey's mother and her selfishness. I thought the destruction from her alcoholism was very well portrayed in this story.
In summary, this was a very sweet GFY story with TONS of sexual tension and very little angst. Perfect for me.
Please tell me this will not be the last Heidi and Marie together!
May 27, 2013
Yes, I read it already because I'm married to one of the authors. Seriously, this will knock your socks off.
February 27, 2019
4.5 stars!
I think this is the best love story I've read this year. And it was published 6 years ago! Heidi Cullinan and Marie Sexton knocked it out of the park.
Vince and his Italian family were portrayed so realistically I kept turning around to see if I was surrounded by mine.
Trey and his family trouble hit my heart over and over. I could FEEL his confusion, his tangled up emotions. It was so easy to put myself in his shoes and relate to his feelings.
The two together? Magic.
I adored this romance!
I think this is the best love story I've read this year. And it was published 6 years ago! Heidi Cullinan and Marie Sexton knocked it out of the park.
Vince and his Italian family were portrayed so realistically I kept turning around to see if I was surrounded by mine.
Trey and his family trouble hit my heart over and over. I could FEEL his confusion, his tangled up emotions. It was so easy to put myself in his shoes and relate to his feelings.
The two together? Magic.
I adored this romance!
November 30, 2014
“Family Man” is a love and family story. It’s a story about hope and strength that will definitely make you feel.
Vince Fierro is a 38 years old Italian man. He works as a plumber, even if he has a MBA. Being a commitment–phobe, he divorced three times, so he wonders if he’s gay. He is confused, lonely, he feels like everything he’s doing is wrong. Trying to figure out if he’s gay or not, he goes in a gay club. There he bumps up into Trey, who is a regular in his family’s restaurant.
Trey’s life isn’t easy. At his 25 years old he works two jobs, takes different classes and he takes care of his grandmother and alcoholic mother. He is gay, out and proud, but he doesn’t date. And yes, he’s a virgin, but not because he didn’t have the opportunity to be with someone, but because he wants his first time to be with someone who loves.
When Vince and Trey meet they are immediately attracted to each other. They go out on a non-date, but things change, Vince realizing he’s not so straight as he thought he is and they start dating. Vince fears that his family will hate him if they find out he is gay, but he doesn’t care. Being with Trey feels right and he is happy. Trey is happy to be with Vince, the Italian man is all he ever wanted in a partner.
They have many ups and downs, but in the end both realize how perfect are for each other.
I really liked this one. It was emotional, heartwarming and heart broking at times. Both Vince and Trey are great characters. Lovable and real, both warmed my heart. My heart broke for Trey. He is a great guy. Very mature for his age, he does what everyone expects, he does everything to support his family, even sacrifice himself. I really felt for him.He is sweet and caring with his grandmother and Vince, but he's struggling with his feelings for his mother.
Vince was a wonderful character. He has such a big heart. He is loving, caring, supportive, patient and he is ready to do anything for Trey, whatever he needs, whatever he asks for. He makes Trey feel safe and loved every time he’s with him.
Both Vince and Trey, all their struggles and all their fears felt real to me.
I liked how naturally their relationship progressed and I loved them together. Despite their age difference, they are perfect for each other. Vince’s family is fantastic, not only to Vince when they found out about that he is gay, but with Trey and his family too. Loved them!
The ending was sweet and perfect for the two men, but I would have liked an epilogue.
Overall, “The Family Man” was a great read, low in angst with lovable characters and great writing.
September 24, 2017
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Cute, but predictable*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
The book centers around Parino Brothers Plumbing man (for now?) Vincent ‘Vince’ ‘Vin’ Fierro (38) and student and a worker for two jobs Trey Oscar Giles (25). Vince is having a crisis; he is gay? Is that why he hadn't succeeded in his love life? Why he feels alone even when he's surrounded by his big Italian family? So when he follows sister's advice: check out a gay bar and see how it goes. Vince is freaked, but he does it and his life gets changed forever. Trey is shocked to see Vince at a gay bar, but doesn't let that stop him from finally finding a man who doesn't expect sex, that doesn't call him a tease just because he want to wait to be in love before losing his virginity. Can Vince get over his fears and expect himself? Can Trey finally let himself hope after all he's been through?
“And just like that, it’s over. And if you’d been stupid enough to let hope live, or if you’d been fool enough to believe the promise, you’d be crushed. Ruined by that bottle. But I know better now. I kill the hope before it can start. I ignore the promises. That’s how I survive.” He looked over at Vince, his blue eyes wide and vulnerable. “That’s the only way to survive.”
Overall, the story had real potential to be great. But, not much happened; it was predictable and bit slow. But that doesn't mean it's not worth reading, because it is. It was a cute story. I liked; it wasn't great, but it was a nice, adorable read. Vince was a great man; protective, kind and caring. Trey takes one day at a time, afraid to hope, but he's adorable and just need someone to take care of him for once, even if he refuses to admit it. Together they were good together. Filling out the other, so to speak. I do, however, wish we had gotten more from the ending; what will happen in the future? I want more of a closure, you see. I have bigger problems now though; what to read next? Ugh.
For so long, I’d been hanging on to my virginity as if it was some kind of prize to be given away. It wasn’t because I thought sex was a sin. It wasn’t that I thought we had to be married. It was simply that I wanted it to matter. I wanted it to be with somebody who I thought was worth the risk of opening myself up.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Standalone.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Trey Oscar Giles.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Probably.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Probably not.
Rating - 3 stars.
September 19, 2017
Tenía muchas dudas y es que yo sabía que no iba a ser lo mío.
Los protagonistas están bien, supongo que la historia también, pero todo lo que se mueve alrededor con el alcoholismo de la madre de uno de ellos y esa familia italiana mil veces representada en películas y series de USA, pues me ha parecido demasiado.
Me ha dejado como un pez, muy fría. Con un bah.
Los protagonistas están bien, supongo que la historia también, pero todo lo que se mueve alrededor con el alcoholismo de la madre de uno de ellos y esa familia italiana mil veces representada en películas y series de USA, pues me ha parecido demasiado.
Me ha dejado como un pez, muy fría. Con un bah.
November 5, 2016
I absolutely loved the romance here and this would've been 5 stars if not for the drama at the end, and I confess it was just a tad bit too sweet at the end as well :D but still it's a great one!!
November 22, 2017
2 frustrating and disappointing stars.
This book had such a great start. Vinnie is 38 and coming to terms with being gay after 3 failed marriages. Trey is 25 living with his grandmother and alcoholic mother, working two jobs and going to school. Vinnie and Trey aren’t friends, but they know of each because they are from the same neighborhood. They bump into one another at a gay bar from there a friendship and relationship develops. That’s the part I loved about this book.
What turned the tide from enjoyment to frustrating for me was Trey’s constant struggles with his mom. It was sweet that Vinnie was always there to help and comfort him, but after a while, the story felt like it went from Vinnie and Trey building a relationship to Vinnie, Trey and his mom. Ugh!
By the time the book came to an end, I was rolling my eyes. Great being, got annoying mid way and cheesy ending.
This book had such a great start. Vinnie is 38 and coming to terms with being gay after 3 failed marriages. Trey is 25 living with his grandmother and alcoholic mother, working two jobs and going to school. Vinnie and Trey aren’t friends, but they know of each because they are from the same neighborhood. They bump into one another at a gay bar from there a friendship and relationship develops. That’s the part I loved about this book.
What turned the tide from enjoyment to frustrating for me was Trey’s constant struggles with his mom. It was sweet that Vinnie was always there to help and comfort him, but after a while, the story felt like it went from Vinnie and Trey building a relationship to Vinnie, Trey and his mom. Ugh!
By the time the book came to an end, I was rolling my eyes. Great being, got annoying mid way and cheesy ending.
April 25, 2019
Plenty of reviews up for this one already so all I'm going to say is I bloody loved it! Give me a crazy Italian family to read about, throw in some hurt/comfort and the cutest of characters and I'm in my happy place. 💖
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
August 22, 2017
Family Man by Heidi Cullinan and Marie Sexton is the epitome of a comfort read. I love stories about self-discovery and family, and this book delivers on both ends. This story is about 38-year-old Vinnie who is coming to terms with the fact that fact he may be gay. One evening he decides to go to a gay club and runs into Trey. He’s known Trey since he was a kid but he’s not a kid anymore. He’s a hard working 25-year-old man who takes care of his mom and grandma while working two jobs and going to school. They hit it off and decide to hang out (as friends air qoutes). Though what started as just a night out soon becomes too obvious to deny that there are more than just casual feelings involved.
Some highlights:
-The slow burn. Vinnie and Trey decide from the start they will take things slow, and the way their interactions are written allows the reader to know how deep their feelings for each other are despite them not taking their relationship to a physical level. We get lots of feels and UST. Boy, do the fireworks go off when they took the next step!
-The depiction of addiction. As someone who has dealt with a loved one’s addiction, I appreciated the honest portrayal of living with someone who’s an alcoholic. The broken promises, false hopes, and resentments. I felt Trey’s feelings.
-Their patience with each other. Trey never pushed for more than Vinnie was comfortable with and Vinnie was Trey’s support when he needed him most.
In the end, this book had everything that I love.
-Fleshed out characters that evolve throughout the story.
-It was emotional and honest.
-Sweet
-And the end left me with a feeling of warmth.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK.
ARC kindly provided to Gay Book Reviews by Dreamspinner Press
October 29, 2014
This book was a bit difficult for me to rate, there were a lot of things that I loved, but there were also a lot of things that I find distasteful.
I really enjoyed the story of Trey’s mother as an alcoholic, it was eye opening with the abuse of cough syrup. I had heard of kids drinking NyQuil, but not just drinking any cough syrup by the bottle. I also agree with Trey’s standpoint on alcoholism as a disease, this will probably piss a lot of people off, but I have my reasons.
I also loved Vinnie’s transition, how hard it was for him to come to terms with his sexuality, and how in doing so made him grow in other aspects in his life. I loved his family, especially his sister, and how even she wasn’t perfect.
What I wasn’t so thrilled about was the age gap, I am not a huge fan. I can see why the authors did it, but even so it was a bit on the extreme side for me.
I am also not a bit fan of the whole “waiting for marriage”, and “saving myself for my soul mate”. I am a firm believer in test the waters, see what you like, and don’t like. You don’t jump in and buy the first car you see, you test drive a few, and cars are not a life commitment.
So, all in all, I liked the story, and it made me think with both my likes and dislikes.
I really enjoyed the story of Trey’s mother as an alcoholic, it was eye opening with the abuse of cough syrup. I had heard of kids drinking NyQuil, but not just drinking any cough syrup by the bottle. I also agree with Trey’s standpoint on alcoholism as a disease, this will probably piss a lot of people off, but I have my reasons.
I also loved Vinnie’s transition, how hard it was for him to come to terms with his sexuality, and how in doing so made him grow in other aspects in his life. I loved his family, especially his sister, and how even she wasn’t perfect.
What I wasn’t so thrilled about was the age gap, I am not a huge fan. I can see why the authors did it, but even so it was a bit on the extreme side for me.
I am also not a bit fan of the whole “waiting for marriage”, and “saving myself for my soul mate”. I am a firm believer in test the waters, see what you like, and don’t like. You don’t jump in and buy the first car you see, you test drive a few, and cars are not a life commitment.
So, all in all, I liked the story, and it made me think with both my likes and dislikes.
May 4, 2019
3.75 stars
April 11, 2013
Goodreads ate my first review, so here's my second attempt.
This wasn't bad. This wasn't extraordinary. It was just a run of the mill published m/m romance. Thus the three stars.
Some things of note though:
1. This book ends at 90% on my Kindle.
2. There is a plethora of the words "Italian", "family", and "gold chain". While this proliferation was silly and bordered on annoying, it was also just an employ of common words one would use to tell us the characterisation of an Italian MC. There was the standard dark, macho MC who ate a lot of pizza and pasta, whose big pushy, religious brood produces fiery, dramatic, emotive family members. Again, common fare. It was like an HBO/Wikipedia representation of a Chicago Italian clan. Nothing deviating from script.
3. The issues tip the balance and overwhelm the romance and potential sexiness of this story. I like and prefer substantive love stories. But, as several readers noted with Dirty Laundry, the book became about the anxiety. Here, the tale is taken over by the alcoholism etc. The heaviness and heavy-handedness leeched out the loveliness of blooming attraction and building love between these two men. It was like 95% drama that makes the reader long for some sexy time on the page, and then when it comes it's jarring because it seems like an afterthought and is a bit hollow because it's so squashed in between the dark drama. I like the inclusion of real life issues, a love story that is grounded in reality, but the writing must be as such that the love and the light isn't lost. The sex was like trying to unearth a Playgirl/boy magazine while an Awake and a Watchtower are being shoved down your throat by Jehovah's Witnesses who won't take no for an answer.
Other than this, the characters were nice. I liked the moment of realisation. And the switch from the expected roles that each partner assumes is good.
I'm leaving my bias against all family smushiness out of this (for eg, how much sharing do/should siblings really practice? And at what point does self-preservation say kick the crazy to the kerb?), because the book is aptly and informatively titled, and I chose to read it.
That aside, I think I'll be hesitant to pick up Cullinan for a while, because while she is a good writer, technically, there is nothing imaginative there and her bid, I think, to be a serious writer, has led her writing to be too serious. And I don't mean she should write fluff. It's just there's a way to write 'real' without such a heavy hand on the Lifetime movie button.
This wasn't bad. This wasn't extraordinary. It was just a run of the mill published m/m romance. Thus the three stars.
Some things of note though:
1. This book ends at 90% on my Kindle.
2. There is a plethora of the words "Italian", "family", and "gold chain". While this proliferation was silly and bordered on annoying, it was also just an employ of common words one would use to tell us the characterisation of an Italian MC. There was the standard dark, macho MC who ate a lot of pizza and pasta, whose big pushy, religious brood produces fiery, dramatic, emotive family members. Again, common fare. It was like an HBO/Wikipedia representation of a Chicago Italian clan. Nothing deviating from script.
3. The issues tip the balance and overwhelm the romance and potential sexiness of this story. I like and prefer substantive love stories. But, as several readers noted with Dirty Laundry, the book became about the anxiety. Here, the tale is taken over by the alcoholism etc. The heaviness and heavy-handedness leeched out the loveliness of blooming attraction and building love between these two men. It was like 95% drama that makes the reader long for some sexy time on the page, and then when it comes it's jarring because it seems like an afterthought and is a bit hollow because it's so squashed in between the dark drama. I like the inclusion of real life issues, a love story that is grounded in reality, but the writing must be as such that the love and the light isn't lost. The sex was like trying to unearth a Playgirl/boy magazine while an Awake and a Watchtower are being shoved down your throat by Jehovah's Witnesses who won't take no for an answer.
Other than this, the characters were nice. I liked the moment of realisation. And the switch from the expected roles that each partner assumes is good.
I'm leaving my bias against all family smushiness out of this (for eg, how much sharing do/should siblings really practice? And at what point does self-preservation say kick the crazy to the kerb?), because the book is aptly and informatively titled, and I chose to read it.
That aside, I think I'll be hesitant to pick up Cullinan for a while, because while she is a good writer, technically, there is nothing imaginative there and her bid, I think, to be a serious writer, has led her writing to be too serious. And I don't mean she should write fluff. It's just there's a way to write 'real' without such a heavy hand on the Lifetime movie button.
March 16, 2014
Family.
Big or small....near or far…sweet or spicy….we’ve all got one.
Some are forged with blood, many are not.
Some are close, many have distance. However, when push comes to shove, when your life comes apart at the seams, your family is your foundation. ‘Family man’ gives us a peek behind closed doors, at the good, the bad, and the ugly that family bestows.
Set in Little Italy in Chicago we find ourselves tossed into Vince’s rut. A disastrous background in love and yet, he’s not ready to throw in the towel. A plumbing mishap highlights that maybe plumbing has indeed been the problem all along. When Vinnie puts his research in motion he discovers the path of happily ever after is harder than he thought. Love isn’t always easy and he questions if he can make the necessary sacrifices. Will he have to choose love over family? Or in the end, is it really a choice at all?
Sometimes life isn’t fair and we are dealt a crappy hand of cards, and Trey was unfortunate to receive such a hand. Forced to grow up too fast, he’s always been the giver. Working two jobs, going to college, and taking care of his elderly grandmother and addict of a mother is burning his candle at both ends. When he catches a familiar face in an unexpected place he can’t help reach out. Against all logic he wants Vince. He’s older, has a tarnished romance record, and is extremely lost. Why should he pursue this deeply confused closet case? His life has enough turmoil; shouldn’t he run from this dark Italian target of heartbreak? Trey quickly realizes the heart wants what the heart wants, and Vince is what his heart wants.
Both authors are favorites of mine and I adored their characters with equal intensity. I’ll be honest and admit the alternating voices were fabulous, but the alternating POV pulled me from the story more than once. Truly that is my only complaint and may not even blip on your radar.
Give ‘em a chance, watch them risk the fall because isn’t that what we’re all looking for after all?
*4 finding-falling-fabulous stars*
Big or small....near or far…sweet or spicy….we’ve all got one.
Some are forged with blood, many are not.
Some are close, many have distance. However, when push comes to shove, when your life comes apart at the seams, your family is your foundation. ‘Family man’ gives us a peek behind closed doors, at the good, the bad, and the ugly that family bestows.
Set in Little Italy in Chicago we find ourselves tossed into Vince’s rut. A disastrous background in love and yet, he’s not ready to throw in the towel. A plumbing mishap highlights that maybe plumbing has indeed been the problem all along. When Vinnie puts his research in motion he discovers the path of happily ever after is harder than he thought. Love isn’t always easy and he questions if he can make the necessary sacrifices. Will he have to choose love over family? Or in the end, is it really a choice at all?
Sometimes life isn’t fair and we are dealt a crappy hand of cards, and Trey was unfortunate to receive such a hand. Forced to grow up too fast, he’s always been the giver. Working two jobs, going to college, and taking care of his elderly grandmother and addict of a mother is burning his candle at both ends. When he catches a familiar face in an unexpected place he can’t help reach out. Against all logic he wants Vince. He’s older, has a tarnished romance record, and is extremely lost. Why should he pursue this deeply confused closet case? His life has enough turmoil; shouldn’t he run from this dark Italian target of heartbreak? Trey quickly realizes the heart wants what the heart wants, and Vince is what his heart wants.
Both authors are favorites of mine and I adored their characters with equal intensity. I’ll be honest and admit the alternating voices were fabulous, but the alternating POV pulled me from the story more than once. Truly that is my only complaint and may not even blip on your radar.
Give ‘em a chance, watch them risk the fall because isn’t that what we’re all looking for after all?
*4 finding-falling-fabulous stars*
November 10, 2020
I absolutely adored this book! I got such a pure enjoyment from reading it, just couldn't put it down. I loved the slow yet steady relationship between Vinnie and Trey, the care they took with each other's feelings and wants. Big Italian family was a big draw for me. I love reading romance with big slightly, okay a lot, intrusive families and this was just that. Vinnie's coming out was one of the highlights for me. Both men's feelings were so relatable and the struggle both had in their lives felt real and heartfelt. I enjoyed reading about emotional turmoil and Trey's inner strength as well Vinnie's gentle care when Trey needed it the most.
The dynamics between them was a very good surprise as well as chemistry. The authors wrote them together realistically and it was so hot and passionate. I actually enjoyed the wait since both Vinnie and Trey got to experience romance, dating and had time to fall in love. Awwww. It was so good. I genuinely enjoyed this story from beginning to the end.
The dynamics between them was a very good surprise as well as chemistry. The authors wrote them together realistically and it was so hot and passionate. I actually enjoyed the wait since both Vinnie and Trey got to experience romance, dating and had time to fall in love. Awwww. It was so good. I genuinely enjoyed this story from beginning to the end.
March 19, 2013
First of all I have to say that or the most part I really enjoyed Family Man and I'm rounding up to 4 but if truth be told the 4 is taking into consideration the quality of writing by two really good authors in this genre, both who I admire a lot. The actual story line I would probably pitch around 3.5 *
I was genuinely engaged in Vince and Treys story and at times was immersed in the drama of it all, especially the drama around Treys mum and her addictions, and I thought the chemistry between the two guys was great and at times very sensual but I must admit on finishing it Ive not been left feeling the wow factor that normally drives me to give a truly felt high rating and I was tempted to mark it as 3* but on careful consideration I felt it did deserve more than that. I will keep it and one day give it another try. The strange thing was all the way through I kept thinking I'd read this before, in fact I discussed it with a friend and swore blind I had because the Deja Vous feelings were spookily strong.... Perhaps that had a bearing on my final thoughts? Weird!
I was genuinely engaged in Vince and Treys story and at times was immersed in the drama of it all, especially the drama around Treys mum and her addictions, and I thought the chemistry between the two guys was great and at times very sensual but I must admit on finishing it Ive not been left feeling the wow factor that normally drives me to give a truly felt high rating and I was tempted to mark it as 3* but on careful consideration I felt it did deserve more than that. I will keep it and one day give it another try. The strange thing was all the way through I kept thinking I'd read this before, in fact I discussed it with a friend and swore blind I had because the Deja Vous feelings were spookily strong.... Perhaps that had a bearing on my final thoughts? Weird!
April 14, 2022
I love big Italian families. And I love books that leave me smiling thru my tears. Put those two things together and I love this story. What a great ride this was. Perfect...just perfect.
July 11, 2018
4.5 *I loved Vinnie's voice* stars rounded down because still no 1/2 stars here on GR.
Family...can't live with them...can't live without them...but sometimes..
the choice isn't always ours.I think we can all agree that in general stereo-types suck and while some are worse than others in terms of their implications, some can also have a basis in reality...like the fact that some cultures place a great deal of importance on things like family, which isn't to say that they're the only cultures that value family and honestly, try as I might I can't see this as a bad thing. But as much as a person can love their family sometimes, that same family can have expectations that aren't fair or may even have just been misinterpreted...hey, it could happen.
For Vincent Fierro family means everything and as an Italian man, he's sure that being gay isn't an expectation his family would have and certainly not something that they would accept from him but after 40 years and 3 divorces Vincent is starting to realize that he needs to find a way to live his life for himself and hopefully...maybe if the stars aligned he'll still get to keep his family.
Trey on the other hand doesn't have a lot of family and maybe that's a good thing because all he's got is his gran and his mom...and mom...to say the least is sucking the life from him. Mom's got an addiction issue and we'll talk more about that later.
'Family Man' isn't a new story by any means it was released in e-book format back in 2013 and it's been on and off of my radar on a somewhat consistent basis every since but when I saw that it was out on audio I decided that this was a sign that it was time for me to check this one out.
Colin Darcy is the narrator and this was my first time listening to a book narrated by him and not my last. Mr. Darcy impressed the hell out of me. Overall I enjoyed his narration but I have to admit I quickly became a fan of Vince's voice. It was so perfectly the voice that I imagined Vince would have and I was simply delighted with Vince and while I hadn't really given as much consideration to Trey's voice once again things worked and in general the same can be said for the secondary character voices as well. It all just worked.
Ok, so without spoiling this for those of you who haven't read or listened to the audio on this one...overall I liked this story. I liked the way that Vince grew and developed as the story progressed seeing him come to terms with his sexuality and while it was a struggle for him at times and he didn't always do the right thing at first he still kept trying and it never felt like he was giving up on himself or on being with Trey in spite of what he thought he was risking and I loved that when Trey needed him the most he was there for him and while their relationship was definitely a work in progress neither of these men were afraid of a little hard work if it meant having what they wanted.
Now I can't say this was the part of the story that I liked the best because that's not the case but I had a definite appreciation for how the author's dealt with Trey's mom's addiction issue. It wasn't glorified in that she magically got better and everyone thought she was wonderful for it and all of the damage that she caused with her addiction suddenly disappeared or was forgotten and without giving away specifics of the story I'm not going to go into this any deeper except to say that as someone who has had the experience of being involved with a person who had addiction issues as with most things in this world each person, each disease, every issue is unique and while there may be commonalities there are also things unique to that person and their situation and while I saw the commonalities in Trey's mom to the situation that I was in I also saw the things that were different and unique to this characters story and for me that was a a touch of realism that came naturally to the story.
Ironically as much as I enjoyed this story I can't say that I"m sorry it took me so long to get around to this one because I thoroughly enjoyed Colin Darcy's narration and again...the voice of Vincent...it was so worth waiting for, but even if you're not a fan of audio...hey, it can happen the story is a worthwhile reading experience.
*************************
An audio book of 'Family Man' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Family...can't live with them...can't live without them...but sometimes..
the choice isn't always ours.I think we can all agree that in general stereo-types suck and while some are worse than others in terms of their implications, some can also have a basis in reality...like the fact that some cultures place a great deal of importance on things like family, which isn't to say that they're the only cultures that value family and honestly, try as I might I can't see this as a bad thing. But as much as a person can love their family sometimes, that same family can have expectations that aren't fair or may even have just been misinterpreted...hey, it could happen.
For Vincent Fierro family means everything and as an Italian man, he's sure that being gay isn't an expectation his family would have and certainly not something that they would accept from him but after 40 years and 3 divorces Vincent is starting to realize that he needs to find a way to live his life for himself and hopefully...maybe if the stars aligned he'll still get to keep his family.
Trey on the other hand doesn't have a lot of family and maybe that's a good thing because all he's got is his gran and his mom...and mom...to say the least is sucking the life from him. Mom's got an addiction issue and we'll talk more about that later.
'Family Man' isn't a new story by any means it was released in e-book format back in 2013 and it's been on and off of my radar on a somewhat consistent basis every since but when I saw that it was out on audio I decided that this was a sign that it was time for me to check this one out.
Colin Darcy is the narrator and this was my first time listening to a book narrated by him and not my last. Mr. Darcy impressed the hell out of me. Overall I enjoyed his narration but I have to admit I quickly became a fan of Vince's voice. It was so perfectly the voice that I imagined Vince would have and I was simply delighted with Vince and while I hadn't really given as much consideration to Trey's voice once again things worked and in general the same can be said for the secondary character voices as well. It all just worked.
Ok, so without spoiling this for those of you who haven't read or listened to the audio on this one...overall I liked this story. I liked the way that Vince grew and developed as the story progressed seeing him come to terms with his sexuality and while it was a struggle for him at times and he didn't always do the right thing at first he still kept trying and it never felt like he was giving up on himself or on being with Trey in spite of what he thought he was risking and I loved that when Trey needed him the most he was there for him and while their relationship was definitely a work in progress neither of these men were afraid of a little hard work if it meant having what they wanted.
Now I can't say this was the part of the story that I liked the best because that's not the case but I had a definite appreciation for how the author's dealt with Trey's mom's addiction issue. It wasn't glorified in that she magically got better and everyone thought she was wonderful for it and all of the damage that she caused with her addiction suddenly disappeared or was forgotten and without giving away specifics of the story I'm not going to go into this any deeper except to say that as someone who has had the experience of being involved with a person who had addiction issues as with most things in this world each person, each disease, every issue is unique and while there may be commonalities there are also things unique to that person and their situation and while I saw the commonalities in Trey's mom to the situation that I was in I also saw the things that were different and unique to this characters story and for me that was a a touch of realism that came naturally to the story.
Ironically as much as I enjoyed this story I can't say that I"m sorry it took me so long to get around to this one because I thoroughly enjoyed Colin Darcy's narration and again...the voice of Vincent...it was so worth waiting for, but even if you're not a fan of audio...hey, it can happen the story is a worthwhile reading experience.
*************************
An audio book of 'Family Man' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2022
Re-read - still liked it but thought the self-acceptance came sudden.
There's a lot going on in this story, a big sometimes overwhelming Italian family on oneside and heavy alcoholism on the other. It gives the story a sense of community and character, I enjoyed getting to know them and could see how it would be hard to break expectations.
I liked Vince, a decent family man who needs something/someone to ground him, it was nice to see his maturity even with the changes he was making, he stands up when it matters. Trey despite being younger is shaped by his life, yet still innocent and dreaming of that HEA. It worked for who he is. One is floating, the other struggling - it was nice seeing them get to know each other and learn to trust and care.
The story is angst free in relation to the couple getting together but Trey's mother is an alcholoic and that aspect is a harsh dose of reality. If it's a trigger point for you, be wary.
It's a collaboration which likely explains the narrative changes first/third person, it didn't distract me too much though I'd have prefered more consistency.
The ending is a big bundle of crazy Italian family and all the love in the world.
There's a lot going on in this story, a big sometimes overwhelming Italian family on oneside and heavy alcoholism on the other. It gives the story a sense of community and character, I enjoyed getting to know them and could see how it would be hard to break expectations.
I liked Vince, a decent family man who needs something/someone to ground him, it was nice to see his maturity even with the changes he was making, he stands up when it matters. Trey despite being younger is shaped by his life, yet still innocent and dreaming of that HEA. It worked for who he is. One is floating, the other struggling - it was nice seeing them get to know each other and learn to trust and care.
The story is angst free in relation to the couple getting together but Trey's mother is an alcholoic and that aspect is a harsh dose of reality. If it's a trigger point for you, be wary.
It's a collaboration which likely explains the narrative changes first/third person, it didn't distract me too much though I'd have prefered more consistency.
The ending is a big bundle of crazy Italian family and all the love in the world.
sampled-no-thanks
February 25, 2019The sample alone shoved so many clichés about Italians and Italian families down my throat that I almost choked on them.
April 27, 2019
Lovely story. I really liked the big italian family aspect and the process of getting out of the closet and stand for who you are. 5 stars.
February 17, 2014
This is the sweet and cute story of Trey and Vince!
The book is very well written, but I don't understand why Trey's POV is on 1st person, and Vince's POV on 3rd person. Probably there is a reason for this difference...
I also think that Trey's mother has too much time in the story. It would be nicer to see their relationship developing, instead of seeing Trey devasted, day after day, because of his mother's addictions!
On the other hand Vince's family is wonderful, funny and kind, specially Rachel!
In the end, what I have to say is that their love is beautiful, built on trust and without pressures!
The book is very well written, but I don't understand why Trey's POV is on 1st person, and Vince's POV on 3rd person. Probably there is a reason for this difference...
I also think that Trey's mother has too much time in the story. It would be nicer to see their relationship developing, instead of seeing Trey devasted, day after day, because of his mother's addictions!
On the other hand Vince's family is wonderful, funny and kind, specially Rachel!
In the end, what I have to say is that their love is beautiful, built on trust and without pressures!
March 15, 2013
Told in alternating POVs, this is a gentle love story.
Vince is nearing forty, has been married three times and is only now facing up to his sexuality. Not only does he have to come to terms with his own internal feelings, he is afraid of the response from his family, fearing his large Catholic, Italian family will not accept him.
"I want to have a relationship with a man. With you. I really, really don't want to screw up anymore." His heart broke, and tears he didn't realize he'd been holding back leaked silently out of the sides of his eyes. "But I don't want to lose my family."
Trey has spent his life trying to make something of himself but has many pressures, having to work hard to pay for college and dealing with his alcoholic mother.
"My Trey has a big heart. When he's happy, he could lift us all up to the clouds, but when he's down, it's hard for him to find his way out of the dark."
Trey and Vince work well together as a couple. As Trey was saving himself for the right man, this story is more focused on the development of the relationship, of Trey and Vince getting to know one another, rather than sex.
It is heartwarming as Vince offers Trey unconditional support and love and broadens his 'family'. Trey is someone that Vince can surrender himself to. He may have been the larger, older man but was looking for the trust and safety that giving himself to Trey delivered.
This love story finishes on a strong romantic note with Vince making the ultimate romantic gesture. A very happy ending.
Vince is nearing forty, has been married three times and is only now facing up to his sexuality. Not only does he have to come to terms with his own internal feelings, he is afraid of the response from his family, fearing his large Catholic, Italian family will not accept him.
"I want to have a relationship with a man. With you. I really, really don't want to screw up anymore." His heart broke, and tears he didn't realize he'd been holding back leaked silently out of the sides of his eyes. "But I don't want to lose my family."
Trey has spent his life trying to make something of himself but has many pressures, having to work hard to pay for college and dealing with his alcoholic mother.
"My Trey has a big heart. When he's happy, he could lift us all up to the clouds, but when he's down, it's hard for him to find his way out of the dark."
Trey and Vince work well together as a couple. As Trey was saving himself for the right man, this story is more focused on the development of the relationship, of Trey and Vince getting to know one another, rather than sex.
It is heartwarming as Vince offers Trey unconditional support and love and broadens his 'family'. Trey is someone that Vince can surrender himself to. He may have been the larger, older man but was looking for the trust and safety that giving himself to Trey delivered.
This love story finishes on a strong romantic note with Vince making the ultimate romantic gesture. A very happy ending.
March 17, 2013
3.5
It’s weird reading a combined work of two authors. Especially these two. I love most of Mary Sexton’s work but Heidi C is not exactly for me. So this book was familiar and yet not.
I read it in one go and I enjoyed it. But I can’t say it will go in my favorites folder.
Vince was an ok character but I saw him as a bit inconsistent. I understood his initial reticence at admitting he’s gay but then his complete 180 was a bit bewildering. As was his next 180 and then his final one. I can understand that coming out to yourself and to your conservative family can be incredibly hard but I felt he kept going to extremes and so it wasn’t believable to me.
Trey I liked. Quite a lot. And felt sorry for and completely understood his struggle with an alcoholic parent( better that I wish I would).
Not such a big fan of the whole Italian family, although I guess I should have been.
I liked the take on their sexual relationship though. It was original if nothing else.
………not much to say about this :(
It’s weird reading a combined work of two authors. Especially these two. I love most of Mary Sexton’s work but Heidi C is not exactly for me. So this book was familiar and yet not.
I read it in one go and I enjoyed it. But I can’t say it will go in my favorites folder.
Vince was an ok character but I saw him as a bit inconsistent. I understood his initial reticence at admitting he’s gay but then his complete 180 was a bit bewildering. As was his next 180 and then his final one. I can understand that coming out to yourself and to your conservative family can be incredibly hard but I felt he kept going to extremes and so it wasn’t believable to me.
Trey I liked. Quite a lot. And felt sorry for and completely understood his struggle with an alcoholic parent( better that I wish I would).
Not such a big fan of the whole Italian family, although I guess I should have been.
I liked the take on their sexual relationship though. It was original if nothing else.
………not much to say about this :(
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