Elisa Rolle's Blog, page 137
December 7, 2019
2018-2019 Rainbow Awards: Best Gay Alternative Universe/Reality & Sci-Fi / Futuristic
And the Rainbow Award goes to...
1.
M.D. Neu - Conviction (A New World #2)
Conviction (A New World Book 2)[image error]
"I loved this story. It was fortunate that I had already read the first book Contact, as this next installment flows seamlessly into the next section of the tale. Todd is the perfect 'everyman'. I completely connected with the character, and Neu had me turning pages wanting to discover how he fairs in his precarious new position as an emissary to an alien race, and in his burgeoning new interspecies romance! There are a lot of parallels here to be tied to our current world, which made the book even more appealing, and without being preachy, really sent home the message of kindness, love, bravery and doing what's right. I highly recommend not only the book but the series."
" I read this book in one session. A well rounded sci-fi story that I could imagine as a movie. "
"The two books in this series are easily among the best books I've read in 2019. They have everything I want from a Sci-Fi book. An emotional rollercoaster with twists and turns and world building. They are excellently written."
M.D. Neu - Contact (A New World #1)
Contact (A New World Book 1)[image error]
"This is a well written story and pulled me in from the beginning. i like sci fi stories that keep me wondering and this is just what Contact does. Can’t wait to see what happens in book two."
"An excellent book that I'd highly recommend to readers of the genre it had me laughing crying and praying for the characters. A book I thought about often for a long time after I'd read it."
2.
J. Scott Coatsworth - The Stark Divide
The Stark Divide (Liminal Sky)[image error]
"This book is three stories about mostly the same people divided by time, but the settings in each were so starkly different that, by the end, the settings were characters themselves. Each was a complete and unique world with intimate details drawing the reader in. The fantastical notions that populated them made them places I wanted to explore. I hope the author will continue to evolve this world much as Anne McCaffery did with Pern. My only critique of to this book is that when someone was going to do something bad, they were written as a bad person without sympathy, and good people were just good. A little predictable, though very nicely fleshed out otherwise. I like a little more nuance and complexity. However, it’s an excellent read."
"A highly recommended SF read, it was a totally gripping read. The world building and descriptions of technology were very interesting and well done to avoid bogging down the story. The characters were fascinating."
3.
Arshad Ahsanuddin - Ascension
Ascension (The Interscission Project Book 5)[image error]
"It’s great to read a fabulous sci-fi story with a romping plot."
"This author weaves complex storylines into a novel that keeps the reader guessing at every turn."
Books in the top 25% rate range
4.
C.C. Bridges - Angels Rising
Angels Rising (Heaven Corp Book 3)[image error]
"An absolute gem of a book. The world-building is detailed and the author has created a unique and inventive society. The story flows really well with plenty of tension and surprises along the way. I was invested in the MCs and rooting for their 'happy ever after' and I enjoyed this book so much that I shall be buying the earlier books in the series."
5.
Pelaam - Strawberry Fields
Strawberry Fields[image error]
"Oh goodness…I was in awe of the vivid descriptions of the automatons, of Nathan & Nicholas’ struggles & inner strength, the steampunk nature meeting danger & sinister dealings. It was wonderful and I couldn’t stop turning the pages!"
comments
1.
M.D. Neu - Conviction (A New World #2)
Conviction (A New World Book 2)[image error]"I loved this story. It was fortunate that I had already read the first book Contact, as this next installment flows seamlessly into the next section of the tale. Todd is the perfect 'everyman'. I completely connected with the character, and Neu had me turning pages wanting to discover how he fairs in his precarious new position as an emissary to an alien race, and in his burgeoning new interspecies romance! There are a lot of parallels here to be tied to our current world, which made the book even more appealing, and without being preachy, really sent home the message of kindness, love, bravery and doing what's right. I highly recommend not only the book but the series."
" I read this book in one session. A well rounded sci-fi story that I could imagine as a movie. "
"The two books in this series are easily among the best books I've read in 2019. They have everything I want from a Sci-Fi book. An emotional rollercoaster with twists and turns and world building. They are excellently written."
M.D. Neu - Contact (A New World #1)
Contact (A New World Book 1)[image error]"This is a well written story and pulled me in from the beginning. i like sci fi stories that keep me wondering and this is just what Contact does. Can’t wait to see what happens in book two."
"An excellent book that I'd highly recommend to readers of the genre it had me laughing crying and praying for the characters. A book I thought about often for a long time after I'd read it."
2.
J. Scott Coatsworth - The Stark Divide
The Stark Divide (Liminal Sky)[image error]"This book is three stories about mostly the same people divided by time, but the settings in each were so starkly different that, by the end, the settings were characters themselves. Each was a complete and unique world with intimate details drawing the reader in. The fantastical notions that populated them made them places I wanted to explore. I hope the author will continue to evolve this world much as Anne McCaffery did with Pern. My only critique of to this book is that when someone was going to do something bad, they were written as a bad person without sympathy, and good people were just good. A little predictable, though very nicely fleshed out otherwise. I like a little more nuance and complexity. However, it’s an excellent read."
"A highly recommended SF read, it was a totally gripping read. The world building and descriptions of technology were very interesting and well done to avoid bogging down the story. The characters were fascinating."
3.
Arshad Ahsanuddin - Ascension
Ascension (The Interscission Project Book 5)[image error]"It’s great to read a fabulous sci-fi story with a romping plot."
"This author weaves complex storylines into a novel that keeps the reader guessing at every turn."
Books in the top 25% rate range
4.
C.C. Bridges - Angels Rising
Angels Rising (Heaven Corp Book 3)[image error]"An absolute gem of a book. The world-building is detailed and the author has created a unique and inventive society. The story flows really well with plenty of tension and surprises along the way. I was invested in the MCs and rooting for their 'happy ever after' and I enjoyed this book so much that I shall be buying the earlier books in the series."
5.
Pelaam - Strawberry Fields
Strawberry Fields[image error] "Oh goodness…I was in awe of the vivid descriptions of the automatons, of Nathan & Nicholas’ struggles & inner strength, the steampunk nature meeting danger & sinister dealings. It was wonderful and I couldn’t stop turning the pages!"
comments
2018-2019 Rainbow Awards: Best LGBTA Young Adult
And the Rainbow Award goes to...
1.
Amy Klobuchar; Edited by In This Together Media - Nevertheless, We Persisted
Nevertheless, We Persisted: 48 Voices of Defiance, Strength, and Courage[image error]
"Each story is powerful, well-written and offers it message without being preachy. It's especially powerful that the stories are from a mix of ages, races, and sexualities. Within its pages is a place for all."
Chris Tebbetts - Me Myself & Him
Me Myself & Him[image error]
"Fresh and creative approach to Coming of Age trope through use of parrallel stories and a Narrator point-of-view that is clever, engaging and very funny. Tebbetts has a laser-sharp ear for realism together with a heart for the sentimental. The author’s craft is well-honed and on top of that, it’s a page-turner!"
"I so wanted to share this with some of my students. Chris is a fantastic character and the split in timelines never feels contrived or hackneyed. Awesome read."
2.
R. Zamora Linmark - The Importance of Being Wilde at Heart
The Importance of Being Wilde at Heart[image error]
"I have never read a story written quite like The Importance of Being Wilde at Heart. Part haiku, part list, part prose, part conversations with Oscar Wilde... loved it. The setting and characters were natural, realistic, and the story was poignantly relatable. A work of art!"
"Absolutely charming first love story with the writings (and life) of Oscar Wilde as its blueprint and alter ego. The writer’s fresh and tender approach to gender, love, irony and lust makes this book read almost like a long poem. Moves along at a great pace, comes complete with a second-string of good friends, and credibly resonates with all the pathos, comedy and poetry of first love. The author knows his craft and certainly knows a great deal about Oscar Wilde. Highly recommended."
Chad Sell - The Cardboard Kingdom
The Cardboard Kingdom[image error]
"I loved it. These beautifully illustrated snippets of the everyday summer lives of kids with an amazing imagination made me laugh, cry, growl, and root for them. What starts with only a couple of kids roleplaying together grows into a true whirlwind adventure between a great many friends. Great costumes, fantastical masks, and brave plots prove that these kids have more in common than they initially think. They support each other in such wonderful ways, I was happy to read the whole thing in one sitting. There are characters for everyone: the boy who dresses up like a girl, the vocal girl who is told she's too loud for a good girl, the reformed bully, the prince and his rogue best friend, the bookish boy without friends, and so on. Something and someone for everyone to relate to. I was blown away by how much could be told with just a few pages and images. Couldn't recommend this higher."
"I loved this colourful, kid-friendly graphic novel. The stories are inventive, and will hold the interest of a young reader while opening their eyes to plethora of ideas and possibilities."
"I’ve never read a graphic novel before. I quite enjoyed the experience. I liked all the little individual stories that made up the kid’s summer holidays. Made me wish I had had a group of neighbourhood friends like that when I was growing up… it would have been fun."
Stefani Deoul - Zero Sum Game
Zero Sum Game (A Sid Rubin Silicon Alley Adventure)[image error]
"There is nothing I haven’t loved about this book. When there are a lot of characters I can find myself lost in trying to figure out who is who, or what not but the author made an awesome job in giving every character a clear voice, so much so that even the most peripheral ones where easy to understand ad remember. Another thing that I really loved about this book is the way the author was able to give a voice to the adolescent stage of life, it is clear from the start that we are looking at a group of teenagers, without it being demeaning or becoming a caricature. Now I want to read the first book in this series and this is actually the best compliment any reader could give to an author, being curios till the point to wanting to know about what they wrote before and becoming such a fan that ones want to wait patiently for the next book."
"There’s a zany brilliance about Stefani Deoul’s writing that makes this second book in the Sid Rubin Silicon Alley Adventure a pleasure to read. Although the story revolves around a small group of nerdy, needy and semi-nihilistic teen brainiacs who solve mysteries by virtue of their encyclopedic knowledge of video games, game theory and teenage angst, the superior writing keeps one going even when the subject matter is somewhat arcane to all but the most dedicated of millennials. Deoul’s use of the first-person POV is perfect, striking the exact right balance amongst the competing mood swings associated with young adult blasé, bedevilment and botheration."
Emily Skrutskie - Hullmetal Girls
Hullmetal Girls[image error]
"This is an excellent contribution to the scifi-genre with young adult characters. The world-building is outstanding. The plot captivating. The book is LGBTI-friendly without being itself LGBTI fiction at all."
"Emily Skrutskie's Hullmetal GIrls is inclusive, diverse, delightful scifi that's refreshingly grrl power in a traditionally male-dominated genre. The characterizations ring true, and the gender and sexual identities of the characters are coincidental rather than fetishized or focused upon. It's simply one more aspect of who they are. The classic tropes utilized in the telling of this tale are no less enjoyable for being tropes. Overall, I deeply enjoyed this story and would definitely read more in this universe."
3.
M. Rose Flores - The End
The End[image error]
"I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written, fast-paced Zombie horror YA book and would recommend it to readers who enjoy YA post-apocalyptic books."
"This book is a fine example of a fresh take on zombie stories. Her writing style keeps readers engaged and the story is well worth the read. "
Mia Kerick - The Princess of Baker Street
The Princess of Baker Street[image error]
"I found this book compelling from the first age and I could not put it down until I'd finished. It's not an easy light fluffy read, I had tears streaming down my face. I really felt for the characters and for real people I've known who at times have been Eric and his friend. Thankfully all the characters get the correct ending for their stories. Note: I read the book without reading the blurb. I see the first paragraph in the blurb would imply this is primarily the story of a trans girl and readers expecting that may be disappointed. Although some of her story does emerge told through Eric's point of view, the book is not her story. The story is more about how other people in school react to her, firstly as a boy who doesn't conform to gender expectations and later as an out trans girl. I'd say this book is primarily about bullying and surviving school through that adolescent period. It sits well with other books that combine LGBT themes and bullying, such as James Howe's Misfits series. The bullying is severe and there is a suicide attempt. And it is Eric's story of survival both at school and at home, where he suffers neglect. It is a story that is very real, I can imagine there are kids living something similar in every school. Eric's thirteen years of age and navigating his way through life at a tricky age. From his point of view, all other kids around him could potentially ruin his life. He tries to fit in and avoid drawing attention to himself. To fit in and not be bullied. He's an average kid. Part of survival means not associating with the kid who doesn't fit in. I would recommend this book to young readers in general. I'd be happy for my children to read it. However, I would say it is targeted at general readers not specifically trans youth."
comments
1.
Amy Klobuchar; Edited by In This Together Media - Nevertheless, We Persisted
Nevertheless, We Persisted: 48 Voices of Defiance, Strength, and Courage[image error]"Each story is powerful, well-written and offers it message without being preachy. It's especially powerful that the stories are from a mix of ages, races, and sexualities. Within its pages is a place for all."
Chris Tebbetts - Me Myself & Him
Me Myself & Him[image error]"Fresh and creative approach to Coming of Age trope through use of parrallel stories and a Narrator point-of-view that is clever, engaging and very funny. Tebbetts has a laser-sharp ear for realism together with a heart for the sentimental. The author’s craft is well-honed and on top of that, it’s a page-turner!"
"I so wanted to share this with some of my students. Chris is a fantastic character and the split in timelines never feels contrived or hackneyed. Awesome read."
2.
R. Zamora Linmark - The Importance of Being Wilde at Heart
The Importance of Being Wilde at Heart[image error]"I have never read a story written quite like The Importance of Being Wilde at Heart. Part haiku, part list, part prose, part conversations with Oscar Wilde... loved it. The setting and characters were natural, realistic, and the story was poignantly relatable. A work of art!"
"Absolutely charming first love story with the writings (and life) of Oscar Wilde as its blueprint and alter ego. The writer’s fresh and tender approach to gender, love, irony and lust makes this book read almost like a long poem. Moves along at a great pace, comes complete with a second-string of good friends, and credibly resonates with all the pathos, comedy and poetry of first love. The author knows his craft and certainly knows a great deal about Oscar Wilde. Highly recommended."
Chad Sell - The Cardboard Kingdom
The Cardboard Kingdom[image error]"I loved it. These beautifully illustrated snippets of the everyday summer lives of kids with an amazing imagination made me laugh, cry, growl, and root for them. What starts with only a couple of kids roleplaying together grows into a true whirlwind adventure between a great many friends. Great costumes, fantastical masks, and brave plots prove that these kids have more in common than they initially think. They support each other in such wonderful ways, I was happy to read the whole thing in one sitting. There are characters for everyone: the boy who dresses up like a girl, the vocal girl who is told she's too loud for a good girl, the reformed bully, the prince and his rogue best friend, the bookish boy without friends, and so on. Something and someone for everyone to relate to. I was blown away by how much could be told with just a few pages and images. Couldn't recommend this higher."
"I loved this colourful, kid-friendly graphic novel. The stories are inventive, and will hold the interest of a young reader while opening their eyes to plethora of ideas and possibilities."
"I’ve never read a graphic novel before. I quite enjoyed the experience. I liked all the little individual stories that made up the kid’s summer holidays. Made me wish I had had a group of neighbourhood friends like that when I was growing up… it would have been fun."
Stefani Deoul - Zero Sum Game
Zero Sum Game (A Sid Rubin Silicon Alley Adventure)[image error]"There is nothing I haven’t loved about this book. When there are a lot of characters I can find myself lost in trying to figure out who is who, or what not but the author made an awesome job in giving every character a clear voice, so much so that even the most peripheral ones where easy to understand ad remember. Another thing that I really loved about this book is the way the author was able to give a voice to the adolescent stage of life, it is clear from the start that we are looking at a group of teenagers, without it being demeaning or becoming a caricature. Now I want to read the first book in this series and this is actually the best compliment any reader could give to an author, being curios till the point to wanting to know about what they wrote before and becoming such a fan that ones want to wait patiently for the next book."
"There’s a zany brilliance about Stefani Deoul’s writing that makes this second book in the Sid Rubin Silicon Alley Adventure a pleasure to read. Although the story revolves around a small group of nerdy, needy and semi-nihilistic teen brainiacs who solve mysteries by virtue of their encyclopedic knowledge of video games, game theory and teenage angst, the superior writing keeps one going even when the subject matter is somewhat arcane to all but the most dedicated of millennials. Deoul’s use of the first-person POV is perfect, striking the exact right balance amongst the competing mood swings associated with young adult blasé, bedevilment and botheration."
Emily Skrutskie - Hullmetal Girls
Hullmetal Girls[image error]"This is an excellent contribution to the scifi-genre with young adult characters. The world-building is outstanding. The plot captivating. The book is LGBTI-friendly without being itself LGBTI fiction at all."
"Emily Skrutskie's Hullmetal GIrls is inclusive, diverse, delightful scifi that's refreshingly grrl power in a traditionally male-dominated genre. The characterizations ring true, and the gender and sexual identities of the characters are coincidental rather than fetishized or focused upon. It's simply one more aspect of who they are. The classic tropes utilized in the telling of this tale are no less enjoyable for being tropes. Overall, I deeply enjoyed this story and would definitely read more in this universe."
3.
M. Rose Flores - The End
The End[image error]"I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written, fast-paced Zombie horror YA book and would recommend it to readers who enjoy YA post-apocalyptic books."
"This book is a fine example of a fresh take on zombie stories. Her writing style keeps readers engaged and the story is well worth the read. "
Mia Kerick - The Princess of Baker Street
The Princess of Baker Street[image error]"I found this book compelling from the first age and I could not put it down until I'd finished. It's not an easy light fluffy read, I had tears streaming down my face. I really felt for the characters and for real people I've known who at times have been Eric and his friend. Thankfully all the characters get the correct ending for their stories. Note: I read the book without reading the blurb. I see the first paragraph in the blurb would imply this is primarily the story of a trans girl and readers expecting that may be disappointed. Although some of her story does emerge told through Eric's point of view, the book is not her story. The story is more about how other people in school react to her, firstly as a boy who doesn't conform to gender expectations and later as an out trans girl. I'd say this book is primarily about bullying and surviving school through that adolescent period. It sits well with other books that combine LGBT themes and bullying, such as James Howe's Misfits series. The bullying is severe and there is a suicide attempt. And it is Eric's story of survival both at school and at home, where he suffers neglect. It is a story that is very real, I can imagine there are kids living something similar in every school. Eric's thirteen years of age and navigating his way through life at a tricky age. From his point of view, all other kids around him could potentially ruin his life. He tries to fit in and avoid drawing attention to himself. To fit in and not be bullied. He's an average kid. Part of survival means not associating with the kid who doesn't fit in. I would recommend this book to young readers in general. I'd be happy for my children to read it. However, I would say it is targeted at general readers not specifically trans youth."
comments
2018-2019 Rainbow Awards: Best Gay Erotic Romance
And the Rainbow Award goes to...
1.
L.A. Witt - Sink or Swim
Sink or Swim (Anchor Point Book 8)[image error]
"I loved the joy, gentleness. and hope in Sink or Swim. The way life should be."
2.
Clancy Nacht & Thursday Euclid - The Congressman's Whore: A Marriage of Convenience
The Congressman's Whore: A Marriage of Convenience[image error]
"I enjoyed this book very much. It was angsty and full of drama and intrigue. Had good flow. The characters were realistic and relatable. Great storyline."
Lane Hayes - Leaning Into the Look
Leaning Into the Look (Leaning Into Series Book 6)[image error]
"Although this is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone in my opinion. Sweet story with complex yet lovable characters who draw you into the story almost immediately. Grant Kostas has overbearing Greek parents who love to meddle in both his social and business lives. Miles is recently out of a long term relationship, not really looking for another and yet the two find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. Their courtship is funny yet poignant and the realization that they do truly need each other is a beautiful thing. Thoroughly recommended."
Lane Hayes - Leaning Into Forever
Leaning Into Forever (Leaning Into Series Book 7)[image error]
Geordie De La Rosa is a legend among wine lovers in Napa Valley. His ultra-fabulous style paired with a penchant for leading impromptu sing-a-longs has made him a star attraction at Conrad Winery. Co-owning a well-respected winery was never Geordie’s aspiration but he likes the niche he’s made for himself. He won’t deny that his job and his friends have helped ease his heartache and grief after the death of his longtime partner.
3.
L.M. Somerton - Trusting Him
Trusting Him (The Retreat Book 2)[image error]
"Hot, HEA, loved the characters. It was just fully satisfying."
comments
1.
L.A. Witt - Sink or Swim
Sink or Swim (Anchor Point Book 8)[image error]"I loved the joy, gentleness. and hope in Sink or Swim. The way life should be."
2.
Clancy Nacht & Thursday Euclid - The Congressman's Whore: A Marriage of Convenience
The Congressman's Whore: A Marriage of Convenience[image error]"I enjoyed this book very much. It was angsty and full of drama and intrigue. Had good flow. The characters were realistic and relatable. Great storyline."
Lane Hayes - Leaning Into the Look
Leaning Into the Look (Leaning Into Series Book 6)[image error]"Although this is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone in my opinion. Sweet story with complex yet lovable characters who draw you into the story almost immediately. Grant Kostas has overbearing Greek parents who love to meddle in both his social and business lives. Miles is recently out of a long term relationship, not really looking for another and yet the two find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. Their courtship is funny yet poignant and the realization that they do truly need each other is a beautiful thing. Thoroughly recommended."
Lane Hayes - Leaning Into Forever
Leaning Into Forever (Leaning Into Series Book 7)[image error] Geordie De La Rosa is a legend among wine lovers in Napa Valley. His ultra-fabulous style paired with a penchant for leading impromptu sing-a-longs has made him a star attraction at Conrad Winery. Co-owning a well-respected winery was never Geordie’s aspiration but he likes the niche he’s made for himself. He won’t deny that his job and his friends have helped ease his heartache and grief after the death of his longtime partner.
3.
L.M. Somerton - Trusting Him
Trusting Him (The Retreat Book 2)[image error]"Hot, HEA, loved the characters. It was just fully satisfying."
comments
2018-2019 Rainbow Awards: Best Lesbian Young Adult
And the Rainbow Award goes to...
1.
Iza Moreau - Swamp Girl
Swamp Girl[image error]
"The moment I started this book, I was immersed. The narrator's voice is so conversational and what exposition is needed is woven fluidly (almost unnoticeably) into the narrative, which is an incredible skill. I'm giving extra points for the setting, which becomes its very own character. Whether we are in the dark, dank grit of the NYC subway, crowded into the borough where Sixteen lives and works, or sweltering in the swamp of the Florida Everglades, I was completely pulled into the location. The atmosphere created by the author is vivid and tangible, especially in the first half: grime and crime and a young woman who is street-savvy and capable but knows she's not invincible. I really connected with Sixteen here and was intrigued by the people who surrounded her. This drops off a little once we get to Florida and the action plot gets going, but this section is rife with unique side characters, and the women in the story - Sixteen, Carmen, and Dorinda - are well fleshed out, with real world problems; everyone has their own traumas and they are all given weight and importance regardless of what the other characters have gone through, but equally, the reader is given an ending push toward hope, of healing, of love, and of growth. Whether I believe a girl would hop a plane to Florida on a whim is beside the point; this story is so engaging that any leaps of faith are nicely folded in. I really enjoyed this."
"I thoroughly enjoyed this adventure story. I loved the main character and her voice. I enjoyed the author's imagination and writing style."
2.
Iza Moreau - Ghost in the Piano
Ghost in the Piano (Elodie Fontaine Mysteries Book 2)[image error]
"I enjoyed this second entry into the Elodie Fontaine Mysteries. I had the chance to read the first book before this one, which made for some nice continuity of character and story-line. The narrative voice in this book is smooth and lyrical, the style engaging, and the pacing and incorporation of the main plot and the side plots is organic and managed well. The focus rests squarely on the mysteries of the hour rather than the romances, with just enough of a nod in the other direction to weave it all together into a fun mystery with a little romance in the Big Easy. I very much enjoyed the setting, the old house especially, and the introduction of Elodie’s grandparents, who aren’t as bad as she fears they will be. A pleasant and heartwarming story about different kinds of families!"
"I really enjoyed this story and hearing about all of their lives, even about the people from the past. It is definitely a series I think I’ll have to go back and read book 1, and then buy the rest of the series… "
3.
Jessica Yeh - Bend for Me
Bend for Me[image error]
Avery Bennett is a bit of a player. But not without cause. After falling in love and ending up with a broken heart, she vowed never to get attached again. Hardened, Avery is determined to protect herself, not bending and absolutely refusing to break for anyone.
Jacqueline Rohrbach - The Soulstealers
The Soulstealers[image error]
"The world-building here is skillfully handled, presented in a way that entices the reader without overwhelming. Together with three-dimensional characters and a great plot, this makes for an exciting, satisfying read."
comments
1.
Iza Moreau - Swamp Girl
Swamp Girl[image error]"The moment I started this book, I was immersed. The narrator's voice is so conversational and what exposition is needed is woven fluidly (almost unnoticeably) into the narrative, which is an incredible skill. I'm giving extra points for the setting, which becomes its very own character. Whether we are in the dark, dank grit of the NYC subway, crowded into the borough where Sixteen lives and works, or sweltering in the swamp of the Florida Everglades, I was completely pulled into the location. The atmosphere created by the author is vivid and tangible, especially in the first half: grime and crime and a young woman who is street-savvy and capable but knows she's not invincible. I really connected with Sixteen here and was intrigued by the people who surrounded her. This drops off a little once we get to Florida and the action plot gets going, but this section is rife with unique side characters, and the women in the story - Sixteen, Carmen, and Dorinda - are well fleshed out, with real world problems; everyone has their own traumas and they are all given weight and importance regardless of what the other characters have gone through, but equally, the reader is given an ending push toward hope, of healing, of love, and of growth. Whether I believe a girl would hop a plane to Florida on a whim is beside the point; this story is so engaging that any leaps of faith are nicely folded in. I really enjoyed this."
"I thoroughly enjoyed this adventure story. I loved the main character and her voice. I enjoyed the author's imagination and writing style."
2.
Iza Moreau - Ghost in the Piano
Ghost in the Piano (Elodie Fontaine Mysteries Book 2)[image error]"I enjoyed this second entry into the Elodie Fontaine Mysteries. I had the chance to read the first book before this one, which made for some nice continuity of character and story-line. The narrative voice in this book is smooth and lyrical, the style engaging, and the pacing and incorporation of the main plot and the side plots is organic and managed well. The focus rests squarely on the mysteries of the hour rather than the romances, with just enough of a nod in the other direction to weave it all together into a fun mystery with a little romance in the Big Easy. I very much enjoyed the setting, the old house especially, and the introduction of Elodie’s grandparents, who aren’t as bad as she fears they will be. A pleasant and heartwarming story about different kinds of families!"
"I really enjoyed this story and hearing about all of their lives, even about the people from the past. It is definitely a series I think I’ll have to go back and read book 1, and then buy the rest of the series… "
3.
Jessica Yeh - Bend for Me
Bend for Me[image error] Avery Bennett is a bit of a player. But not without cause. After falling in love and ending up with a broken heart, she vowed never to get attached again. Hardened, Avery is determined to protect herself, not bending and absolutely refusing to break for anyone.
Jacqueline Rohrbach - The Soulstealers
The Soulstealers[image error]"The world-building here is skillfully handled, presented in a way that entices the reader without overwhelming. Together with three-dimensional characters and a great plot, this makes for an exciting, satisfying read."
comments
2018-2019 Rainbow Awards: Best Gay Romantic Suspence
And the Rainbow Award goes to...
1.
Tara Lain - The Case of the Sexy Shakespearean
The Case of the Sexy Shakespearean (The Middlemark Mysteries Book 1)[image error]
"I enjoyed this cozy mystery. The MCs are likeable, and are supported by an interesting supporting cast amongst a littering of obnoxious individuals. I loved the cats who are characters in their own right. The setting felt real and was easy to imagine. The plot had a few red herrings, and clever twists. I’m hoping this is the first in a series."
"Extremely entertaining with a plot twist at the end that I didn’t see coming. The main characters were endearing and I loved the subtle message about the stutter’s origin and why it lessens near the end. This feels like a book with both prequels (I want more about Ramon Randell and other cases solved by the professor) and sequels (what other mysteries does our dynamic duo solve?"
2.
Amy Lane - A Few Good Fish
A Few Good Fish (Fish Out of Water Book 3)[image error]
"This was a sexy seamless read. The characters were amazing and Amy's writing style is fun and addictive."
"Exciting plot, well paced - interspersing periods of high action with domestic scenarios. Beautifully written so settings were real - from shopping in Walmart’s to raiding a mercenary military camp. The quality of the writing also meant characters were clearly defined, each one unique. The only down was that this book is mid series, some scenes or discussions were slightly confusing without the context of previous books, although generally the author managed to supply some details of previous episodes."
3.
Eden Winters - Suspicion (Diversion #7)
Suspicion (Diversion Book 7)[image error]
"I just love this series, so it was a treat for me to read this newest installment. I've been following Lucky and Bo from their beginnings, and I can only admire the way the author keeps them true to themselves while letting their characters grow and change over time. They feel like real persons to me. Not to mention the supportive cast. There's not one cardboard character among them; they all have their own personalities, quirks and peeves. But what keeps me returning to these books over and over is the deep humanity they breathe, the inane belief in the good in all human beings they convey."
"Suspicion continues Winters' Diversion series in a way that should delight existing fans as well as intrigue new readers. I'd only read the first book, and a long time ago, but I was able to fall back into the story of Lucky's fall and rise (and fall, and rise) as an agent with the Southeastern Narcotics Bureau. This story develops his family (blood and found) and tests loyalties. A fast-paced adventure with plenty of steam."
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1.
Tara Lain - The Case of the Sexy Shakespearean
The Case of the Sexy Shakespearean (The Middlemark Mysteries Book 1)[image error]"I enjoyed this cozy mystery. The MCs are likeable, and are supported by an interesting supporting cast amongst a littering of obnoxious individuals. I loved the cats who are characters in their own right. The setting felt real and was easy to imagine. The plot had a few red herrings, and clever twists. I’m hoping this is the first in a series."
"Extremely entertaining with a plot twist at the end that I didn’t see coming. The main characters were endearing and I loved the subtle message about the stutter’s origin and why it lessens near the end. This feels like a book with both prequels (I want more about Ramon Randell and other cases solved by the professor) and sequels (what other mysteries does our dynamic duo solve?"
2.
Amy Lane - A Few Good Fish
A Few Good Fish (Fish Out of Water Book 3)[image error]"This was a sexy seamless read. The characters were amazing and Amy's writing style is fun and addictive."
"Exciting plot, well paced - interspersing periods of high action with domestic scenarios. Beautifully written so settings were real - from shopping in Walmart’s to raiding a mercenary military camp. The quality of the writing also meant characters were clearly defined, each one unique. The only down was that this book is mid series, some scenes or discussions were slightly confusing without the context of previous books, although generally the author managed to supply some details of previous episodes."
3.
Eden Winters - Suspicion (Diversion #7)
Suspicion (Diversion Book 7)[image error]"I just love this series, so it was a treat for me to read this newest installment. I've been following Lucky and Bo from their beginnings, and I can only admire the way the author keeps them true to themselves while letting their characters grow and change over time. They feel like real persons to me. Not to mention the supportive cast. There's not one cardboard character among them; they all have their own personalities, quirks and peeves. But what keeps me returning to these books over and over is the deep humanity they breathe, the inane belief in the good in all human beings they convey."
"Suspicion continues Winters' Diversion series in a way that should delight existing fans as well as intrigue new readers. I'd only read the first book, and a long time ago, but I was able to fall back into the story of Lucky's fall and rise (and fall, and rise) as an agent with the Southeastern Narcotics Bureau. This story develops his family (blood and found) and tests loyalties. A fast-paced adventure with plenty of steam."
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Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Slasher Crasher by David Nora
Slasher Crasher[image error]"Slasher Crasher unapologetically satirizes Halloween, but it's so much more. It has all the 80's-porn nostalgia of Stranger Things, and more drama than Dawson's Creek and 90210 combined. And the characters were spot on! It was like high school all over again. We know these people because we went to school with someone just like them. Slasher Crasher was fun, funny, and delightfully grisly. Homerun on this one. "
It was the night HE tried to go home...but got caught in THEIR drama...
It’s Halloween. Nick Roesch, a towering figure of evil and stupidity, escapes from the upstate New York mental hospital he’s been committed to for the past five years. Planning to return to his childhood home, where he brutally murdered his babysitter’s boyfriend, his plans are halted when he crosses paths with an even more terrifying beast—two high school friends with some serious beef. Caught in a battle of loyalty that has been brewing for ten years of their friendship, the two girls, Kathleen Strife and Betsy Coleman, force the feud into a savage showdown, pitting the escaped monster against each other. Who will survive this epic deathmatch, and is it totally wrong to fall in love with the murderous lunatic who just tried to kill your ex-best friend with a machete?
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Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Nevertheless, We Persisted by Amy Klobuchar
Nevertheless, We Persisted: 48 Voices of Defiance, Strength, and Courage[image error]"Each story is powerful, well-written and offers it message without being preachy. It's especially powerful that the stories are from a mix of ages, races, and sexualities. Within its pages is a place for all."
A powerful collection of essays from actors, activists, athletes, politicians, musicians, writers, and teens, including Senator Amy Klobuchar, actress Alia Shawkat, actor Maulik Pancholy, poet Azure Antoinette, teen activist Gavin Grimm, and many, many more, each writing about a time in their youth when they were held back because of their race, gender, or sexual identity--but persisted.
"Aren't you a terrorist?" "There are no roles for people who look like you." "That's a sin." "No girls allowed." They've heard it all. Actress Alia Shawkat reflects on all the parts she was told she was too "ethnic" to play. Former NFL player Wade Davis recalls his bullying of gay classmates in an attempt to hide his own sexuality. Teen Gavin Grimm shares the story that led to the infamous "bathroom bill," and how he's fighting it. Holocaust survivor Fanny Starr tells of her harrowing time in Aushwitz, where she watched her family disappear, one by one.
What made them rise up through the hate? What made them overcome the obstacles of their childhood to achieve extraordinary success? How did they break out of society's limited view of who they are and find their way to the beautiful and hard-won lives they live today? With a foreword by Minnesota senator and up-and-coming Democratic party leader Amy Klobuchar, these essays share deeply personal stories of resilience, faith, love, and, yes, persistence.
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Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Hiroku by Laura Lascarso
Hiroku[image error]"The author did an amazing job with this book. All the red flags are out and flying high to warn Hiroku away from Seth and a toxic relationship but the author shows us how easily some characters can manipulate and others can turn a blind eye seeing what they want to see. This book touched me as I read about situations and conversations that I knew too well. I laughed and cried."
Hiroku Hayashi is just coming into his own when he meets Seth Barrett on the basketball courts in the suburbs of Austin. With his shredded jeans, tousled hair and risky behavior, Seth more than lives up to his bad boy reputation.
Seth sees in Hiroku something Hiroku doesn’t see in himself—potential. With a hero-like worship, Hiroku embarks on a complicated and intense relationship with the older teen, who not only fascinates Hiroku as a lover but persuades him to take their experimentation to extremes. Hiroku reasons that if it feels good, then it must be okay.
But as Seth’s demands increase, Hiroku must ask himself, at what point is the sacrifice too much?
Told in parallel timelines of then and now, seventeen-year-old Hiroku weaves a story about emotional manipulation, abuse and addiction while struggling to understand the core of their relationship, who is to blame, and his own compulsion to choose Seth over everything else.
When fear is the heart of love, does it make your feelings any less real?
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Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Mosaic of the Dark by Lisa Dordal
Mosaic of the Dark[image error]"This collection of poetry, collated under various subheadings, delves thoughtfully into many issues of significance to queer women (and non-queer women) – consent, religion, marginalisation/invisibility, philosophy, bereavement, secrets, to name a few. A thought-provoking read."
Poetry. Women's Studies. LGBTQIA Studies. MOSAIC OF THE DARK is a portrayal of one woman's journey to wholeness and addresses the psychological harm that can arise from restrictive societal expectations for women. As the speaker in these poems examines her own early experiences as a closeted lesbian trying to fit her life into the prescribed script of heterosexuality, she grapples with her mother's possibly non-heterosexual orientation and eventual death from alcoholism. In the end, the speaker successfully sheds familial and cultural expectations in favor of her true self and, in the process, experiences a spiritual re-visioning that allows her to move beyond the confines of a male-centered Christianity to a more expansive, mystical way of experiencing the divine.
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December 6, 2019
Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Boy Shattered by Eli Easton
Boy Shattered[image error]"Writing about a high school shootings is such a serious subject, and it would have been easy to give it a huge amount of angst that could feel like exploitation. Eli Easton did a great job of writing this story about these two boys and their relationship and emotions, their community and classmates, and their parents. By keeping the story focused on the characters, it feels real and emotional, but not overdone."
Popular athlete Brian had everything until a school shooter nearly killed him. He survived the massacre with the help of a hero—his classmate Landon, who faced death to help others… and who is openly gay. Brian might be alive, but he can’t face his fears or move on, especially since the shooters were never caught. He’s falling apart, and he can only reach for Landon and hope Landon will take his hand a second time.
Landon did what anyone would do when he found Brian dying on the cafeteria floor. He doesn’t think of himself as a hero, but he’s ready to take a stand against the gun violence tearing apart the lives of young people—people like Brian, who returned to school a shadow of the happy, outgoing quarterback Landon used to admire. Brian still needs him, and as their friendship grows and deepens, wounds might begin to heal. The bond they share could lead a new start for them both.
Only the terror that visited Jefferson Waller High School isn’t over yet.
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