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When Love Comes to Town
The year is 1990, and in his hometown of Dublin, Ireland, Neil Byrne plays rugby, keeps up with the in-crowd at his school, and is just a regular guy. A guy who’s gay. It’s a secret he keeps from the wider world as he explores the city at night and struggles to figure out how to reveal his real self—and to whom. First published in Ireland in 1993 and compared to The Catcher in the Rye by critics, Tom Lennon’s When Love Comes to Town is told with honesty, humor, and originality.
294 pages, ebook
First published November 1, 1993
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
January 7, 2013
When I saw the cover of this on Net Galley, I was all ooh two boys in flannel, this looks to be interesting. Then I saw it was set in the 90’s, in Ireland (yummy accents), and a coming of age story. I was sold, so I signed up for it.
You see, I miss 90’s fashion terribly, I think it’s the only time I really was in style. I mean how hard is it to toss on a flannel shirt, ripped jean, and doc martins or combat boots? Yeah, I was suddenly in style in a High School filled with J Crew and Gap girls. So I want to give a big thank you to Mudhoney for bringing forth the grunge era.
This story centers on Neil, a sensitive young man who realized he was gay at the age of ten. Since then he has played the class clown with his friends, and been slowly pulling away from his family. I loved the way his thought process was written, how he narrated what he was going to say before he said it. On how he told himself stories on how things would go if he said this, or did that. It was interesting, and it really showed how scared he was to EVER show his true self.
I also found it amazing on how strong yet fragile Neil was, how adult in some ways, and so very lost in others. How he acknowledges how different he feels for certain people, but when it’s easy he fools himself thinking lust is love. With Ian it’s the innocent, pure, sweet, heart wrenching love of hidden poems, and midnight walks by his house. With Uncle Sugar it’s the pity love, the honor, and flattering feelings of being sought after, the shared sadness of knowing that you share a bond of hopeless love. With Shane it’s the lust ridden, blinder wearing, fool yourself, character flaw ignoring relationship you know is not going to last long, but always hope it does.
Along with Neil’s story we see glimpses of other peoples’ lives, and what they struggle with. He meets a Drag Queen, whose wife took the kids and left, a young man dying of AIDS, his best friend having an affair with a married man, his sexually active sister smoking pot with her boyfriend, as well as a list of problems that his friends are dealing with.
This is a slice of life story, one that touches your heart, makes you feel the emotions the main character is feeling. I really wish I found this to read back when it was published, it’s a beautiful story that shows you just how not different everyone is. How love, no matter who you are is messy, stupid, pure, innocent, blind, and always worth it.
Thank you Net Galley and Albert Whitman & Company
You see, I miss 90’s fashion terribly, I think it’s the only time I really was in style. I mean how hard is it to toss on a flannel shirt, ripped jean, and doc martins or combat boots? Yeah, I was suddenly in style in a High School filled with J Crew and Gap girls. So I want to give a big thank you to Mudhoney for bringing forth the grunge era.
This story centers on Neil, a sensitive young man who realized he was gay at the age of ten. Since then he has played the class clown with his friends, and been slowly pulling away from his family. I loved the way his thought process was written, how he narrated what he was going to say before he said it. On how he told himself stories on how things would go if he said this, or did that. It was interesting, and it really showed how scared he was to EVER show his true self.
I also found it amazing on how strong yet fragile Neil was, how adult in some ways, and so very lost in others. How he acknowledges how different he feels for certain people, but when it’s easy he fools himself thinking lust is love. With Ian it’s the innocent, pure, sweet, heart wrenching love of hidden poems, and midnight walks by his house. With Uncle Sugar it’s the pity love, the honor, and flattering feelings of being sought after, the shared sadness of knowing that you share a bond of hopeless love. With Shane it’s the lust ridden, blinder wearing, fool yourself, character flaw ignoring relationship you know is not going to last long, but always hope it does.
Along with Neil’s story we see glimpses of other peoples’ lives, and what they struggle with. He meets a Drag Queen, whose wife took the kids and left, a young man dying of AIDS, his best friend having an affair with a married man, his sexually active sister smoking pot with her boyfriend, as well as a list of problems that his friends are dealing with.
This is a slice of life story, one that touches your heart, makes you feel the emotions the main character is feeling. I really wish I found this to read back when it was published, it’s a beautiful story that shows you just how not different everyone is. How love, no matter who you are is messy, stupid, pure, innocent, blind, and always worth it.
Thank you Net Galley and Albert Whitman & Company
February 27, 2013
This is Neil Byrne's story. A young Irish man who has known he was gay since he was ten years old, he has been keeping his sexual orientation from his friends and family. He acts like the happy-go-lucky guy everyone has come to know when in reality his heart is breaking and his loneliness is eating him up inside.
I truly loved this story. Since the story took place in 1990 I could relate to the music references and the fashion, but it was Neil's sense of helplessness and his tortured soul that really touched me. Add to that the common issues teenager struggle with and I couldn't help but love him.
His voice was a wonderful mixture of humor, sarcasm and pain. He struggled with who he was every single day. He wanted to fit in, but wanted to be himself - accepted, loved just as he was. He feared his parents and friends' reactions if they ever found out he was gay and endured bigoted comments from them, while maintaining his ever present humor and smile.
Packed full with emotions, introspective narrative and interesting characters, I thought that Tom Lennon's writing was excellent. He managed to bring all sorts of emotions and events to the page that kept the reader engaged and emotionally invested Neil's story and his well being. The secondary characters were a mix of different personalities - the supportive, the indifferent and the disloyal. Every character added to the story and to Neil's development as a person. Little by little we get to see a different side of Neil. At first he was insecure and a bit lost as to what he really wanted from life, but as the story progressed we see how the interactions with the different characters has changed him, making him more assertive and looking at the world through the eyes of a grown up.
It was interesting to see how things have progressed over the years and how some issues remain the same. Today's GLBT's youth still struggle with similar problems as those Neil struggled throughout the story even though many things have improved since the 90's. James Klise's foreword brings to the front the fact that this story was written before famous people were coming out as gay and the availability of support groups was a click or a tap away.
This book was as sweet as it was heart wrenching. I laughed, I cried, I was exasperated and mad as hell, but above all else I was enlightened. When Love Comes to Town is a coming of age story that will stay with you even after you're done reading it.
I received tis title from through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
I truly loved this story. Since the story took place in 1990 I could relate to the music references and the fashion, but it was Neil's sense of helplessness and his tortured soul that really touched me. Add to that the common issues teenager struggle with and I couldn't help but love him.
His voice was a wonderful mixture of humor, sarcasm and pain. He struggled with who he was every single day. He wanted to fit in, but wanted to be himself - accepted, loved just as he was. He feared his parents and friends' reactions if they ever found out he was gay and endured bigoted comments from them, while maintaining his ever present humor and smile.
Packed full with emotions, introspective narrative and interesting characters, I thought that Tom Lennon's writing was excellent. He managed to bring all sorts of emotions and events to the page that kept the reader engaged and emotionally invested Neil's story and his well being. The secondary characters were a mix of different personalities - the supportive, the indifferent and the disloyal. Every character added to the story and to Neil's development as a person. Little by little we get to see a different side of Neil. At first he was insecure and a bit lost as to what he really wanted from life, but as the story progressed we see how the interactions with the different characters has changed him, making him more assertive and looking at the world through the eyes of a grown up.
It was interesting to see how things have progressed over the years and how some issues remain the same. Today's GLBT's youth still struggle with similar problems as those Neil struggled throughout the story even though many things have improved since the 90's. James Klise's foreword brings to the front the fact that this story was written before famous people were coming out as gay and the availability of support groups was a click or a tap away.
This book was as sweet as it was heart wrenching. I laughed, I cried, I was exasperated and mad as hell, but above all else I was enlightened. When Love Comes to Town is a coming of age story that will stay with you even after you're done reading it.
I received tis title from through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
April 30, 2013
3.5 stars
This is my first Glbt novel so take my opinion with a grain of salt. I didn’t know what to expect from it but I do know that I enjoyed reading it. When Love Comes To Town has depth, meaning, and I found it to be very thought provoking.
When Love Comes To Town is a story about a boy named Neil coming to terms with his sexuality. Neil has known he was gay since he was ten. He has been playing the role of the class clown ever since then. He keeps to himself and has been distancing himself from his family. I loved how Neil was written. He strong in some ways but also very weak in other ways. His fear of showing his true self really shows through his narration. Neil imagines in massive detail about what will happen if he says or does a certain thing before he decides to go through with it. His thought process was interesting and very different.
I also noticed that the love Neil feels for people differs. Neil’s love for Ian was pure, his love for Jack shows his need to be wanted, and his love for Shane was a lustful one.
The other characters in the book are also well rounded. They all had their own quirks and flaws. We also get to learn their stories. This kept them from being forgettable and made them memorable.
The book contains good writing that often slips into the style of stream of thought. I thought that it worked well. It allowed the reader to learn more about Neil’s way of thinking. When Love Comes To Town made my eyes tear up at some moments. This does not mean that the book is lacking in humour and happy moments. I laughed, I teared up, and I cheered on for the characters.
I believe that When Love Comes To Town was a good introduction to the Glbt genre and I look forward to more
This is my first Glbt novel so take my opinion with a grain of salt. I didn’t know what to expect from it but I do know that I enjoyed reading it. When Love Comes To Town has depth, meaning, and I found it to be very thought provoking.
When Love Comes To Town is a story about a boy named Neil coming to terms with his sexuality. Neil has known he was gay since he was ten. He has been playing the role of the class clown ever since then. He keeps to himself and has been distancing himself from his family. I loved how Neil was written. He strong in some ways but also very weak in other ways. His fear of showing his true self really shows through his narration. Neil imagines in massive detail about what will happen if he says or does a certain thing before he decides to go through with it. His thought process was interesting and very different.
I also noticed that the love Neil feels for people differs. Neil’s love for Ian was pure, his love for Jack shows his need to be wanted, and his love for Shane was a lustful one.
The other characters in the book are also well rounded. They all had their own quirks and flaws. We also get to learn their stories. This kept them from being forgettable and made them memorable.
The book contains good writing that often slips into the style of stream of thought. I thought that it worked well. It allowed the reader to learn more about Neil’s way of thinking. When Love Comes To Town made my eyes tear up at some moments. This does not mean that the book is lacking in humour and happy moments. I laughed, I teared up, and I cheered on for the characters.
I believe that When Love Comes To Town was a good introduction to the Glbt genre and I look forward to more
April 30, 2020
This coming-out story focuses on the sense of alienation experienced by gay kids growing up and coming of age in an heteronormative society. It also denounces the hypocrisy of a majority that demands candour but it not ready to accept it when it gets it. It is short but it packs quite the punch, yet Lennon also infuses it with tenderness for his characters.
It is a rich and rounded emotional rollercoaster filled with laughter and tears. It's well written. My only real issue is the way the relation between Neil and Ian is treated. I understand that it's done this way for narrative reasons but it doesn't feel right. I think Lennon should logically have developed it much earlier in the book than he does.
The book as a whole is totally verisimilar and engrossing though. It's 26 years old but the circumstances it describes sadly still feel completely contemporary and relevant. I read this in one sitting.
It is a rich and rounded emotional rollercoaster filled with laughter and tears. It's well written. My only real issue is the way the relation between Neil and Ian is treated. I understand that it's done this way for narrative reasons but it doesn't feel right. I think Lennon should logically have developed it much earlier in the book than he does.
The book as a whole is totally verisimilar and engrossing though. It's 26 years old but the circumstances it describes sadly still feel completely contemporary and relevant. I read this in one sitting.
April 6, 2013
Neil was very easy to relate to and root for. You really felt for what he was going through.
Young, naive and a little bit stupid, but hopeful -- until there wasn't a whole lot of hope left. But then there was, which finally made the story for me.
This wasn't the most action-packed book ever, but I'd recommend it for sure, if for no other reason than Neil's little internal chats with Jesus Christ himself. : )
Young, naive and a little bit stupid, but hopeful -- until there wasn't a whole lot of hope left. But then there was, which finally made the story for me.
This wasn't the most action-packed book ever, but I'd recommend it for sure, if for no other reason than Neil's little internal chats with Jesus Christ himself. : )
July 21, 2020
A re-read of a book first read years ago and still remembered fondly. Luckily, the reading again didn't destroy the memory. Perhaps a bit dated and people now may not recall how much AIDS affected the culture, but the issues around coming out are still a big rite of passage.
February 26, 2013
A free copy of this ebook was provided for me via Netgalley.
My rating for this book is 3.5 out of 5 stars.
This is a Young Adult GLBT romance novel that takes place in Ireland in the 1990's. [Before I start my review, I just want to quickly say how great it is that this book is getting released in the US for the FIRST time even though it was originally published in 1993. We need more diverse YA. It's fine and dandy to read a book about a pretty, white, American heroine, but not ALL the time. It is very refreshing to see a story about a gay teen from Ireland; this is not a perspective that we see often in teen literature].
Now - our main character is Neil Byrne. At first glance it might seem that Neil's got a pretty fabulous life: he is a smart, attractive rugby athlete that has tons of great friends and even a few girls pining for him. His parents are still together and he's got two sisters and two brothers. He is finishing up his last year in school with good grades. He seems to have it all.
BUT . . . he just so happens to be secretly gay, and he's known about it since he was very young. Neil is tired of pretending to like girls and he is tired of hiding his true self from his friends and family. As much as he wants to reveal everything to his loved ones, he is horribly afraid of the consequences of doing that. Will everyone abandon him, tease him, beat him up? He worries about this constantly and is ever vigilant that no one find out that he is gay. This, however, becomes more difficult to hide as Neil ventured out to his first gay pub and befriends an eclectic group of people that are gay like he is.
There is Uncle Sugar - a much older man that befriends Neil and clearly wants more from him than Neil wants to provide. Uncle Sugar is wealthy but also has creepy stalkerish tendencies. There is Ian - a cute boy that works at a neighborhood pub that Neil takes a liking too but can't seem to find the words to tell Ian how he really feels. And there is also Shane - the ultimate hottie - that Neil meets a gay bar and has an instant attraction to.
There are many more interesting people to this story that have a profound impact on our protagonist's life as he struggles to find himself and reconcile the conflicts within him. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone that is tired of the same clichéd YA fiction and is looking for something different than what one usually sees in the teen section of the bookstore. This is a good, worthwhile book to read, and I am very glad I had a chance to do that thanks to Netgalley for providing me a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
My rating for this book is 3.5 out of 5 stars.
This is a Young Adult GLBT romance novel that takes place in Ireland in the 1990's. [Before I start my review, I just want to quickly say how great it is that this book is getting released in the US for the FIRST time even though it was originally published in 1993. We need more diverse YA. It's fine and dandy to read a book about a pretty, white, American heroine, but not ALL the time. It is very refreshing to see a story about a gay teen from Ireland; this is not a perspective that we see often in teen literature].
Now - our main character is Neil Byrne. At first glance it might seem that Neil's got a pretty fabulous life: he is a smart, attractive rugby athlete that has tons of great friends and even a few girls pining for him. His parents are still together and he's got two sisters and two brothers. He is finishing up his last year in school with good grades. He seems to have it all.
BUT . . . he just so happens to be secretly gay, and he's known about it since he was very young. Neil is tired of pretending to like girls and he is tired of hiding his true self from his friends and family. As much as he wants to reveal everything to his loved ones, he is horribly afraid of the consequences of doing that. Will everyone abandon him, tease him, beat him up? He worries about this constantly and is ever vigilant that no one find out that he is gay. This, however, becomes more difficult to hide as Neil ventured out to his first gay pub and befriends an eclectic group of people that are gay like he is.
There is Uncle Sugar - a much older man that befriends Neil and clearly wants more from him than Neil wants to provide. Uncle Sugar is wealthy but also has creepy stalkerish tendencies. There is Ian - a cute boy that works at a neighborhood pub that Neil takes a liking too but can't seem to find the words to tell Ian how he really feels. And there is also Shane - the ultimate hottie - that Neil meets a gay bar and has an instant attraction to.
There are many more interesting people to this story that have a profound impact on our protagonist's life as he struggles to find himself and reconcile the conflicts within him. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone that is tired of the same clichéd YA fiction and is looking for something different than what one usually sees in the teen section of the bookstore. This is a good, worthwhile book to read, and I am very glad I had a chance to do that thanks to Netgalley for providing me a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2016
Find my full review here
I am neither male, nor gay, but I think this story is powerful enough that transcends the specific subject matter. It is a coming of age / coming out story of one Irish bloke the summer between 6th year and Uni. I won't say it is a story of acceptance because that is not what he receives, necessarily. But it is his journey, no-the-less. He is an average joe with a painful secret that he has kept for many years. He wars with himself for lying and for hiding, but he doesn't see another way. It is told in the third person from Neil's perspective. You get a unique view of action in both standard narrative and interesting stream-of-consciousness bits. You know what he is thinking; you feel what he is feeling. You hurt with him; you laugh with him. But you also hurt FOR him. The last chapter of the book is one of the most powerful I think I have ever read.
I am neither male, nor gay, but I think this story is powerful enough that transcends the specific subject matter. It is a coming of age / coming out story of one Irish bloke the summer between 6th year and Uni. I won't say it is a story of acceptance because that is not what he receives, necessarily. But it is his journey, no-the-less. He is an average joe with a painful secret that he has kept for many years. He wars with himself for lying and for hiding, but he doesn't see another way. It is told in the third person from Neil's perspective. You get a unique view of action in both standard narrative and interesting stream-of-consciousness bits. You know what he is thinking; you feel what he is feeling. You hurt with him; you laugh with him. But you also hurt FOR him. The last chapter of the book is one of the most powerful I think I have ever read.
March 9, 2016
Lennon's "When Love Comes to Town" is creative not as much for its plot and characters as it is the overall subject of the novel. The LGBT community has grown immensely over the past decade, and Lennon's novel touches on many of those extremely time relevant themes. Anyone interested in the life of someone with a non-heterosexual identity would most likely find Neil, the 'closeted' homosexual main character's story quite fascinating. Lennon's character development is also an aspect that adds to his novel, in that there are many different types of characters that play many different roles in the life of Neil and the plot overall. Additionally, the novel is a very easy read for someone looking for some pleasure reading or even perhaps a younger audience. (Although, parents and teachers should be advised that the book has mild but present adult themes that some young readers may not find suitable.) Overall a great book, especially in its time.
December 19, 2017
As I've read a lot of current LGBTQ+ fiction, I was truly interested in reading something that is contemporary to when I was in high school. Thinking back to how we flippantly used the word gay, I can't imagine how difficult it would have been for those closeted students in my school, and for sure there were some. From reading this wonderfully truthful and at times very upsetting story, I can't help but feel deeply for Neil and hope that later in life he is able to find the love and acceptance that he is searching for.
September 20, 2014
I loved this book!!!!!! I couldn't put it down, and I had to keep reminding myself that there was barely any access to internet back then! Or maybe it never existed. I LOVED IT!!!!!!!
October 14, 2013
You can find more of my reviews on my co-owned blog Boricuan Bookworms
ARC provided by Publisher via Netgalley
Neil Byrne is a star player of his rugby team at school, easy-going and a clown at times, he’s your regular high school guy. But that’s what you see in the outside, because there is more to him than what the eye shows. He likes guy since he was a ten-year-old. But in 1990’s Ireland a lot of people consider it a disease and rather take the news like someone is going to die instead of what it really is, a sexual preference (or sexual orientation). In this story, we see the struggles and problems Neil starts to go through once he decides to tell the truth little by little and going to a gay pub. One thing is for sure, it isn’t easy.
Rating: 4.5 stars
ARC provided by Publisher via Netgalley
Neil Byrne is a star player of his rugby team at school, easy-going and a clown at times, he’s your regular high school guy. But that’s what you see in the outside, because there is more to him than what the eye shows. He likes guy since he was a ten-year-old. But in 1990’s Ireland a lot of people consider it a disease and rather take the news like someone is going to die instead of what it really is, a sexual preference (or sexual orientation). In this story, we see the struggles and problems Neil starts to go through once he decides to tell the truth little by little and going to a gay pub. One thing is for sure, it isn’t easy.
When I requested this ARC, for some reason I confused it with another book and didn’t know it was about a gay guy. Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against them. It was just a bit weird because I’ve never read a book like that, which made me be more interested, especially since it deals a lot with psychology and emotions; I love those things in a book.
It didn’t disappoint. While reading I often thought of The Perks of Being a Wallflower. They are two whole different stories yet deal with the misunderstanding of some people, plus the writing style was one so different and much more engaging than the ones of this millennium. I was hooked from the first page, I couldn't put it down. It’s in third person and I usually don’t like it much, but here it’s delivered in a way that you don’t feel like reading it in that kind of narrative, for the ones who’re really picky in that like me. Also, the way the author wrote, it made it even more interesting. There were even some parts in italics written from Neil’s first person view with short and sometimes confusing sentences. Some may see it was a weakness in the narrative, but it gave the story a more realistic feel because we think like that, in short and unfinished sentences most of the time.
The characters were amazing. Each one played an important paper in the story even if they appeared momentarily. We see how each person plays a part in the situation where Neil was. His parents didn’t understand him, even if they did love him, they were your typical parents wanting “what’s best for you,” or in other words deciding your future. The same with the other characters, each one was equally important as Neil is and made in such a great way...
Now the part I’ve been wanting to write about since I started the book. Homosexuality is a strong topic even in this more liberal age. People are more acceptant (accepting?) than they used to be, and we can still see a lot of conflicts regarding this. Neil here is between the wall and the sword, thinking there must be something wrong with him. Everywhere people talk bad about what he really is, and everyone judged him without knowing the real situation. I consider that everyone is free to chose whatever they want, that’s why we have freewill. Why insult, attack, and spit on someone who is as human as you are? Why preach of doing God’s will and goodness if you’re going to treat them in all the wrong ways? It makes me really angry how some people can be so inconsiderate. It’s okay that they have their opinions, but there’s a limit to your words. Yes, there’s the freedom of speech, but there are also morals, and I don’t consider to treat someone bad to make them feel like scum and want to die something nice my parents would teach me.
Neil in the story has to deal with his own friends talking bad of gays, insulting them and making even Neil laugh at them. He’s torn inside between telling the truth or keeping it hidden. He’s torn between what he wants, often praying to Jesus to make him stop liking guys and be “normal”. He even considers suicide! That’s also wrong, but to find yourself in that situation is really strong, and no one should face those things. And whom are to blame? People that don’t respect other’s choices and preferences. Whatever you like, go for it, as long as you don’t make yourself or others something wrong, go for it. You are free of that.
And that’s why I loved this book, because it makes you reflect on those things. The story might have been from the 1990’s, at least 20 years ago, and yet I can still see these things nowadays. Don’t you think it’s a little bit mad? Recently on Facebook I saw a picture that says that Ancient Native American tribes treated same sex relationships with utmost respect and were thought to be sacred. (https://www.facebook.com/didyouknowblog) If they respected them, why can’t we too? Treat them as equals? Or at least not look down at them with superiority and spit on their faces?
(cheers that I finally found a perfect place to put this GIF! :D)
Back to the book... So yeah, basically, this is a great read. Whatever your sexual preferences, this is a must read. It makes you think a lot because it not only touches the themes of homosexuality, but bullying, family relationships, friends, and your future as you want it. It also gives a message of staying strong because after the storm comes the rainbow. Not everything is bad. In Pandora's jar, with all that was left outside, monsters, diseases and horrible things, the only thing that always remains in the end, is hope.
Also, ha, this book is probably a banned book, challenged book, or with things that are considered “bad”. And I am proud I read it because I read whatever I wanted. A great read, honestly. If you loved The Perks by Stephen Chbosky, read this. Twisted good characters? This has them. Humor and romance? This too. Want to cry for that confusing ending? Oh yeah, I did. There are really emotional parts in this.
Love love love it. So glad I picked this book.
Rating: 4.5 stars
March 26, 2024
I personally loved the book but I found it thrown together! like Neil keeps repeating himself and I started to get bored after a while but I kept reading. I would personally loved to see more into the other charecters lifes.. for example Daphne the young man who we presume died from aids I would of liked to have all my questions answered with a second book but there is none!!! Like did Daphne die during the story or after if he died during why didn’t we get a part where Neil goes to it? At the end Neil presumably hangs his self during the night in his parents back yard after a few hours his parents find him and he miraculously comes back to life’s so either he done it a few seconds before his father woke up or he dreamed that part? Why didn’t unklar Sugar Jack answer his phone? And couldn’t have Neil crashed at his sisters boyfriends apartment or even one with one of his friends at the bar!?!? And there’s so many parts where it just suddenly skips from him being in the hospital and then suddenly back at home and we just have to guess he’s back at home and suddenly able to talk like it would of been better if before anything like that happens there a little part in italics explaining that he’s back home or it’s it’s the next day! And there’s so much unloaded into one chapter! //- most of this stuff could of probably been answered in the book already just my dyslexic ass skipped over it -\\
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2017
4 1/2 stars - very quick read, I couldn't put down this story of Neil's life and how he comes to terms with his sexuality. It was nice to see book set in Ireland during the 1990's as this provides a different point of view.
This is a book I wish I had when I was younger as I felt I could relate to Neil and many of his feelings and struggles. At the heart of this novel is loneliness, and the hope for acceptance, as well as trying to determine how friends and family will handle learning the truth of your sexuality.
I enjoyed watching Neil grow and find himself as he progressed through his story and found the courage to live his life and tell his friends and family. There are many characters and scenes that made an impression on me for better or worse. As did the types of love Neil had for each and what they gave him back in return.
I don't want to go into more details and risk spoiling the story. This is a story that will stay with me for a long time.
This is a book I wish I had when I was younger as I felt I could relate to Neil and many of his feelings and struggles. At the heart of this novel is loneliness, and the hope for acceptance, as well as trying to determine how friends and family will handle learning the truth of your sexuality.
I enjoyed watching Neil grow and find himself as he progressed through his story and found the courage to live his life and tell his friends and family. There are many characters and scenes that made an impression on me for better or worse. As did the types of love Neil had for each and what they gave him back in return.
I don't want to go into more details and risk spoiling the story. This is a story that will stay with me for a long time.
January 31, 2020
This book deals with a current and delicate topic, homosexuality. It lets the reader feel Neil's struggle from an emotional, psychological and social point of view, his fears, insecurity and discomfort. He has to face a challenging reality, his friends' and parents' reaction. He is upset by his parents' refuse to accept his being and they pretend it is something that will pass, but it is more than this. It makes Neil more vulnerable and helpless in front of their religious beliefs and prejudices. I think this beautiful sentence gathers the meaning of how Neil feels and how he feels: '... being gay is not a mental illness. It's the way I am, Mum, the way I've always been, and the way I always will be'. The book also highlights how difficult relationships can be, based on compromises and mutual commitment; they can bring to disillusion and disappointment. But beyond the darkness there is always some light, after the sunset there is always a new and beautiful dawn.
June 21, 2021
Entré sin ninguna expectativa, avance rápidamente y todo pintaba muy interesante y bueno, pero conformé avanzo la historia se me hizo muy pesado PERO me hizo sentido total.
El final es lógico pero lo sentí muy rápido, sin detalle y brusco. No me gustó ni la forma, ni la situación ni el mensaje que deja al final.
Se entiende totalmente el final debido a los tiempos y las circunstancias, pero siento que la forma en la que me plantearon el final no era la adecuada, me dejó un sabor de boca 80% agrio 20% ligeramente dulce.
¿lo recomiendo? Claro, es una novela gay con personajes y final muy distinto a lo que ahora tenemos.
El final es lógico pero lo sentí muy rápido, sin detalle y brusco. No me gustó ni la forma, ni la situación ni el mensaje que deja al final.
Se entiende totalmente el final debido a los tiempos y las circunstancias, pero siento que la forma en la que me plantearon el final no era la adecuada, me dejó un sabor de boca 80% agrio 20% ligeramente dulce.
¿lo recomiendo? Claro, es una novela gay con personajes y final muy distinto a lo que ahora tenemos.
January 4, 2021
Sinceramente, al principio el libro me gustó mucho , pero la segunda mitad es confusa, da saltos temporales muy grandes y el final no me gustó nada. Además personajes como Becky, Jackie o Daphne... No se sabe nada de ellos al final del libro y son importantes 😅
Me parece un libro para echar el rato pero a mi, personalmente, no me gustó al final. Creo que se podría haber sacado mucho más de esta historia... 🤔
Me parece un libro para echar el rato pero a mi, personalmente, no me gustó al final. Creo que se podría haber sacado mucho más de esta historia... 🤔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2026
This was a hard read. I really didn't enjoy it.
I like the concept of his thoughts and reality being intertwined and mingled but then I also found it really difficult to tell what was his fantasy and what was actually going on. when he got beat up I had to do a double take as I thought it was all in his mind.
also the ending felt incredibly rushed, big break up and suicidal tendency and then ... gets a call and everything is good? maybe I missed something.
I like the concept of his thoughts and reality being intertwined and mingled but then I also found it really difficult to tell what was his fantasy and what was actually going on. when he got beat up I had to do a double take as I thought it was all in his mind.
also the ending felt incredibly rushed, big break up and suicidal tendency and then ... gets a call and everything is good? maybe I missed something.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2017
It's an older book about a gay teen who loves Sinead O'Connor, coming out to people he trusts and loves. It does not end on an especially upbeat note, which I found discouraging. The preface was helpful in putting into perspective the culture and times when the book was originally written, and maybe has redeeming value as a glbt period piece.
March 16, 2013
I read When Love Comes to Town by Tom Lennon at the same time I was read another book about LGBTQ youth from a male perspective: Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan (for the read-a-long I’m co-hosting) which led to some interesting comparisons. When Love Comes to Town is set in Ireland during the year 1990 (the year I was born!) and as the new forward points out, it is a different time than the one we live in now. There was no “It Gets Better” campaign, homophobia was even more prevalent, and there weren’t chat rooms to find others like you. This was all in stark contrast to Will Grayson, Will Grayson, in which whole chapters are IM conversations!
The plot of When Love Comes to Town is fairly simple. Neil Byrne is an athletic sixteen year old, who lives in Dublin with his family. It is just coming up the end of the school year, and he is taking his exams. He’s having to make some decisions that will impact the rest of his life, such as where to go to college. During this time, Neil, who has known for a while that he is gay, becomes increasingly involved in the gay bar scene, meeting new people and new friends that support him. Despite the support, at times his involvement in the LGBTQ community adds even more challenges to his life. He hasn’t told his family, or his friends, although he often feels that deep down they suspect the truth. Neil’s story is about coming out and coming to terms with ones’ sexuality and the tough times along the way. While it is categorized in the romance genre on Goodreads … I wouldn’t really call it that. It’s certainly a depressing story. Although this was at a time when a lot of LGBTQ stories were almost strictly about the struggles of coming out, so I can’t retrospectively judge it for having a bit of a singular narrative. However, it did a fairly good job from straying away from LGBTQ stereotypes. While many of the characters at first glimpse appear to be a bit stereotypical, Lennon presents many sides to each character. There is the macho/butch Neil, who is also sensitive and caring; effeminate Daphne, and two trans women/cross dressing men Gladys and Penelope (I understand trans & cross dressing are NOT the same, but it wasn’t very explicit as to how they identified… although I think they may have been referred to as “trannys”). There was a wide age range of characters represented as well.
One issue I did have was that this was almost exclusively a gay male narrative… to the point that it just seemed as if lesbian or bisexual women were being excluded on purpose. There are 2-3 instances of lesbian women in the narrative, and one of those instances is to remark at his friend Becky being uncomfortable around them. 2 out of the 3 instances involve the same women and the second instance is made in passing. It just seemed very strange that here Neil was going to the gay bar a few times a week in the summer and lesbian women were never really involved in the story. As for bisexual men and women, they are mentioned once and in a biphobic manner, perpetuating myths about bisexuality. Becky tells Neil to avoid bisexual men, as they will break his heart because they are too fluid, don’t know what they want, and as a result, won’t commit to a relationship. I know even today that biphobia is an issue in LGBTQ communities, but it was still disappointing.
As for the characters, I thought many of them were interesting and added to the plot, but I actually had the toughest time connecting with the main character, Neil. I’m not sure if this is because I don’t read a lot of male narrated books, but I think it had more to do with the fact that the writing style of the book was… strange. It would switch frequently between first and third person point of view. The first person point of view could go on for a page or two and be a stream of consciousness (especially when he had been drinking). It was a bit jarring at times and despite the fact that I got to see inside Neil’s head, it didn’t really bring me closer to the character.
For the most part, the book was just OK for me. It read quite quickly, and it was interesting to read a book set in the year I was born, in a country that I had just recently visited. The only part of the book that I thought was very well done and that the strange first/third person mixed point of view worked well was at the very end. It made me very emotional, but then the actual last page was just… odd. I don’t want to spoil it, but it just left me a bit confused as I thought about the message of the book. If anyone has read it, I’d love to talk about it!
Looking back, I think I’d still have chosen to read When Love Comes to Town, as it provides insight into the not so distant past and had me also thinking about the present, and the future in regards to LGBTQ issues. While it doesn’t read as YA does today, as it is a bit more mature, and the writing is quite different then today’s bestsellers, When Love Comes to Town is a classic YA book that deals with tough issues in what I imagine, for some, is done in a relatable way.
* I requested this book on NetGalley, and received an electronic version of the book in exchange for an honest review.
The plot of When Love Comes to Town is fairly simple. Neil Byrne is an athletic sixteen year old, who lives in Dublin with his family. It is just coming up the end of the school year, and he is taking his exams. He’s having to make some decisions that will impact the rest of his life, such as where to go to college. During this time, Neil, who has known for a while that he is gay, becomes increasingly involved in the gay bar scene, meeting new people and new friends that support him. Despite the support, at times his involvement in the LGBTQ community adds even more challenges to his life. He hasn’t told his family, or his friends, although he often feels that deep down they suspect the truth. Neil’s story is about coming out and coming to terms with ones’ sexuality and the tough times along the way. While it is categorized in the romance genre on Goodreads … I wouldn’t really call it that. It’s certainly a depressing story. Although this was at a time when a lot of LGBTQ stories were almost strictly about the struggles of coming out, so I can’t retrospectively judge it for having a bit of a singular narrative. However, it did a fairly good job from straying away from LGBTQ stereotypes. While many of the characters at first glimpse appear to be a bit stereotypical, Lennon presents many sides to each character. There is the macho/butch Neil, who is also sensitive and caring; effeminate Daphne, and two trans women/cross dressing men Gladys and Penelope (I understand trans & cross dressing are NOT the same, but it wasn’t very explicit as to how they identified… although I think they may have been referred to as “trannys”). There was a wide age range of characters represented as well.
One issue I did have was that this was almost exclusively a gay male narrative… to the point that it just seemed as if lesbian or bisexual women were being excluded on purpose. There are 2-3 instances of lesbian women in the narrative, and one of those instances is to remark at his friend Becky being uncomfortable around them. 2 out of the 3 instances involve the same women and the second instance is made in passing. It just seemed very strange that here Neil was going to the gay bar a few times a week in the summer and lesbian women were never really involved in the story. As for bisexual men and women, they are mentioned once and in a biphobic manner, perpetuating myths about bisexuality. Becky tells Neil to avoid bisexual men, as they will break his heart because they are too fluid, don’t know what they want, and as a result, won’t commit to a relationship. I know even today that biphobia is an issue in LGBTQ communities, but it was still disappointing.
As for the characters, I thought many of them were interesting and added to the plot, but I actually had the toughest time connecting with the main character, Neil. I’m not sure if this is because I don’t read a lot of male narrated books, but I think it had more to do with the fact that the writing style of the book was… strange. It would switch frequently between first and third person point of view. The first person point of view could go on for a page or two and be a stream of consciousness (especially when he had been drinking). It was a bit jarring at times and despite the fact that I got to see inside Neil’s head, it didn’t really bring me closer to the character.
For the most part, the book was just OK for me. It read quite quickly, and it was interesting to read a book set in the year I was born, in a country that I had just recently visited. The only part of the book that I thought was very well done and that the strange first/third person mixed point of view worked well was at the very end. It made me very emotional, but then the actual last page was just… odd. I don’t want to spoil it, but it just left me a bit confused as I thought about the message of the book. If anyone has read it, I’d love to talk about it!
Looking back, I think I’d still have chosen to read When Love Comes to Town, as it provides insight into the not so distant past and had me also thinking about the present, and the future in regards to LGBTQ issues. While it doesn’t read as YA does today, as it is a bit more mature, and the writing is quite different then today’s bestsellers, When Love Comes to Town is a classic YA book that deals with tough issues in what I imagine, for some, is done in a relatable way.
* I requested this book on NetGalley, and received an electronic version of the book in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2017
i liked it.
the beginning was a little slow for my liking but it finished good. it was a good mix of non- and historical fiction which is both upsetting and good because of the way gays were treated and it teaches.
until next time ...
~Carly
the beginning was a little slow for my liking but it finished good. it was a good mix of non- and historical fiction which is both upsetting and good because of the way gays were treated and it teaches.
until next time ...
~Carly
October 4, 2024
This was a nice coming out/coming of age story set against the backdrop of Ireland in the 1990's.
It teaches the importance of finding and being true to yourself and the friends who walk the journey with you.
It teaches the importance of finding and being true to yourself and the friends who walk the journey with you.
August 22, 2020
Short book. Didn't take long to read. Billed as a gay Catcher in the Rye. I wouldn't go that far, but it was pretty good.
April 11, 2021
I haven't cried this much per page in a while.
Such a good book, short and intense, it really makes you feel you are going out and about 90s Dublin with Neil.
Such a good book, short and intense, it really makes you feel you are going out and about 90s Dublin with Neil.
June 23, 2021
Not one of my favorites, but highly readable.
June 11, 2024
Short easy read. Got me out of a reading slump
March 11, 2013
~ARC E COPY was provided by Albert Whitman & Company through Netgalley, for review purposes~
I had always enjoyed books about gay, lesbian relationship, it something different. I haven’t read many male gay relationships before. At first I wasn’t sure how much I was going like this book, mostly due to fact that first few pages started out pretty slow, and it was bit hard for me to get into story at first. When it did pick up, I found myself unable to put the book down. When Love Comes To Town ended up being one of the books that I enjoyed more than I thought I would. When Love Comes To Town was unlike any LGBT book I read before and that’s what was unique about it. I would highly recommend this book. You won’t be disappointed.
GOODREADS SUMMARY
The year is 1990, and in his hometown of Dublin, Ireland, Neil Byrne plays rugby, keeps up with the in-crowd at his school, and is just a regular guy. A guy who's gay. It's a secret he keeps from the wider world as he explores the city at night and struggles to figure out how to reveal his real self--and to whom.
First published in Ireland in 1993 and compared to The Catcher in the Rye by critics, Tom Lennon's When Loves Comes to Town is told with honesty, humor, and originality.
The cover is completely stunning, how can you not want to read the book, by looking at the cover. That was one of the first things that actually captured my attention towards the book, got me curious. Cover and the title. When Love Comes To Town, first it such unique title, it seems like most romance titles are pretty simple these days, and that’s what is so unique about it. After reading the book, I saw how much both the cover and the title fit the story. The cover is pretty colorful too, type of cover that would capture reader’s attention, way it captured mine.
I always enjoyed reading books from male’s point of view. This male point of view was unlike any other novel that I read before. Unlike other male characters, Neil didn’t seem strong like male characters are, at least parts of the books. Most of all he seemed lost, like he couldn’t find a place where he belonged. Neil’s voice was powerful all way through the novel, I found myself being able to feel everything that Neil was feeling: pain, fear, anger, loneliness. There were times that I wanted to hug Neil, to say that everything was going to be okay. Neil’s emotions were all over the place in novel and they were portrayed so well, I felt like I could connect with him, even though I couldn’t begin imagine what he was going through. I was curious how his parents would react to his news, and I got say I wasn’t too happy with them, especially his father. Parents should accept, love their children no matter what. I was glad that at least he had his sister, her boyfriend and some other friends, who actually accepted him for who he was.
I loved that it took place in Dublin, in 90’s, that what was unique about this book. It was unique because it took a place, prior to Internet and I saw the different kinds of entertainment there was there, during that time. I have feeling that it must been even harder on Neil, during that to feel accepted and that’s why he was hiding, his secret. It was why he only told to the people he truly trusted. Considering how he got beat up, when someone found he was gay, I can see why he kept it hidden. That scene was scary, my heart raced while I read it, I was sure that he was going to get killed and sighed of relief when he didn’t.
Ian & Shane: I wished that Neil had courage, to start something with Ian then Shane, to me it seemed like he was better match for him. Even if Ian didn’t say much, I could tell that he liked Neil, just by way he looked at him sometimes; they had a connection when two of them talked. Now Shane, I have nothing against, I did like him, at least in beginning, the way that he treated Neil at start I was sure that he liked him. But standing him up, then telling him that he’s too young for him, I wasn’t too sure if he cared for him, at least not the way that Neil cared for him. The way that he treated him sometimes around his friends, made me wonder if he was embarrassed by him. To me, it seemed that Neil moved bit fast from crushing to Ian to Shane.
When Love Comes To Town was original, it will make you sad, angry and even make you smile at parts. It’s a book that you won’t regret picking up.
I had always enjoyed books about gay, lesbian relationship, it something different. I haven’t read many male gay relationships before. At first I wasn’t sure how much I was going like this book, mostly due to fact that first few pages started out pretty slow, and it was bit hard for me to get into story at first. When it did pick up, I found myself unable to put the book down. When Love Comes To Town ended up being one of the books that I enjoyed more than I thought I would. When Love Comes To Town was unlike any LGBT book I read before and that’s what was unique about it. I would highly recommend this book. You won’t be disappointed.
GOODREADS SUMMARY
The year is 1990, and in his hometown of Dublin, Ireland, Neil Byrne plays rugby, keeps up with the in-crowd at his school, and is just a regular guy. A guy who's gay. It's a secret he keeps from the wider world as he explores the city at night and struggles to figure out how to reveal his real self--and to whom.
First published in Ireland in 1993 and compared to The Catcher in the Rye by critics, Tom Lennon's When Loves Comes to Town is told with honesty, humor, and originality.
The cover is completely stunning, how can you not want to read the book, by looking at the cover. That was one of the first things that actually captured my attention towards the book, got me curious. Cover and the title. When Love Comes To Town, first it such unique title, it seems like most romance titles are pretty simple these days, and that’s what is so unique about it. After reading the book, I saw how much both the cover and the title fit the story. The cover is pretty colorful too, type of cover that would capture reader’s attention, way it captured mine.
I always enjoyed reading books from male’s point of view. This male point of view was unlike any other novel that I read before. Unlike other male characters, Neil didn’t seem strong like male characters are, at least parts of the books. Most of all he seemed lost, like he couldn’t find a place where he belonged. Neil’s voice was powerful all way through the novel, I found myself being able to feel everything that Neil was feeling: pain, fear, anger, loneliness. There were times that I wanted to hug Neil, to say that everything was going to be okay. Neil’s emotions were all over the place in novel and they were portrayed so well, I felt like I could connect with him, even though I couldn’t begin imagine what he was going through. I was curious how his parents would react to his news, and I got say I wasn’t too happy with them, especially his father. Parents should accept, love their children no matter what. I was glad that at least he had his sister, her boyfriend and some other friends, who actually accepted him for who he was.
I loved that it took place in Dublin, in 90’s, that what was unique about this book. It was unique because it took a place, prior to Internet and I saw the different kinds of entertainment there was there, during that time. I have feeling that it must been even harder on Neil, during that to feel accepted and that’s why he was hiding, his secret. It was why he only told to the people he truly trusted. Considering how he got beat up, when someone found he was gay, I can see why he kept it hidden. That scene was scary, my heart raced while I read it, I was sure that he was going to get killed and sighed of relief when he didn’t.
Ian & Shane: I wished that Neil had courage, to start something with Ian then Shane, to me it seemed like he was better match for him. Even if Ian didn’t say much, I could tell that he liked Neil, just by way he looked at him sometimes; they had a connection when two of them talked. Now Shane, I have nothing against, I did like him, at least in beginning, the way that he treated Neil at start I was sure that he liked him. But standing him up, then telling him that he’s too young for him, I wasn’t too sure if he cared for him, at least not the way that Neil cared for him. The way that he treated him sometimes around his friends, made me wonder if he was embarrassed by him. To me, it seemed that Neil moved bit fast from crushing to Ian to Shane.
When Love Comes To Town was original, it will make you sad, angry and even make you smile at parts. It’s a book that you won’t regret picking up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2013
Originally posted on Once Upon a Bookcase.
I happened to find When Love Comes to Town by chance when browsing NetGalley. I wasn't looking for books to read for LGBTQ YA Month, but when I saw this listed, I had a look. Not only did it sound awesome, but it's also set in Ireland, which I just love. I was really eager to give it a go. Not only is When Love Comes to Town an awesome book, but more difficult to read than I expected.
Neil is an ordinary teenager; brilliant at rugby, brilliant in his classes, a number of friends he's pretty popular with, with everything going well for him. Or so everyone thinks, but Neil has a secret. He's gay, and has known it for years. He is constantly hearing comments from those around him about the sexuality of others, or jokes made at their expense, and knows things would change if they ever knew. But Neil is really struggling this year. All his friends are coupled up - the "rhyming couplets" as he calls them - and he's feeling lonely, He wants some happiness of his own, to love and be loved, but doesn't know how that's going to happen, when he doesn't feel he can admit to who he is.
When Love Comes to Town is a coming out story, and I've heard a lot of people have problems with coming out stories; there are too many of them about, we're at a time now when coming out, although difficult, isn't the only story LGBTQ people have to tell. This is the first coming out story I've read, but what I think makes this one different from the other coming out stories, possibly, is when it was published and where it's set - in 1993, set in Ireland. There are no mobiles and no internet. If Neil wants to make a private phone call, he has to use a payphone. It's also set in deeply religious Ireland, where being open about your sexuality doesn't seem all that wise. My knowledge of how things are in Ireland isn't that great, but if it would still be considered unwise to be open about your sexuality, at least now there is the internet where an LGBTQ person can find support groups and people like themselves, and not feel so alone. Neil doesn't have any of that. All he has is the local gay pub/club, a place which he struggles with. He feels so alone, and is so lonely, your heart goes out to him.
When Love Comes to Town is the first book I've read that covers a person's first experience of a gay pub/club. Probably because of when it's written, at first the pub seems to be just a place for gay people to try to find someone to take home, or go home with. The first time he goes, the whole evening is spent with a man he refers to as Uncle Sugar hitting on him. Buying him drinks, complimenting him, offering him a lift home. Neil is really put off by this guy as he's as old as his father, but uses him for company as he feels ridiculous and out of place. But over time, the pub becomes his haven, a place where he can be himself, once he makes friends. He realises he's not completely alone. He makes friends with a couple, one of whom was a few years over him at school, with an extremely camp guy who calls himself Daphne, and with a couple of cross-dressers. Neil has his eyes opened at the pub with just how many LGBTQ people there are, and how different they are. But although he now has friends who are like himself, and he starts a relationship, there is a part of him that still suffers. He can't admit to who he really is outside of certain circles.
There is a huge element of self-hatred at times throughout the book. He wonders why he was born this way, why he couldn't be born straight, and questions whether he could force himself to become straight by having a girlfriend. He also mentions that he has considered suicide a few times, and prays for Jesus to strike him dead, thinking everyone would be better off, everything would be easier. It's really difficult to read, because he just knows he wouldn't be accepted by those he cares about most.
I can't really say much more without spoiling the story - this really is just surface stuff. It's a fantastic book, a surprising one, and one that opened my eyes. It's a heartbreaking but moving story, and one that makes even me appreciate how things have moved forward in twenty years. I highly recommend it.
Thank you to Albert Whitman Teen and NetGalley for the proof.
I happened to find When Love Comes to Town by chance when browsing NetGalley. I wasn't looking for books to read for LGBTQ YA Month, but when I saw this listed, I had a look. Not only did it sound awesome, but it's also set in Ireland, which I just love. I was really eager to give it a go. Not only is When Love Comes to Town an awesome book, but more difficult to read than I expected.
Neil is an ordinary teenager; brilliant at rugby, brilliant in his classes, a number of friends he's pretty popular with, with everything going well for him. Or so everyone thinks, but Neil has a secret. He's gay, and has known it for years. He is constantly hearing comments from those around him about the sexuality of others, or jokes made at their expense, and knows things would change if they ever knew. But Neil is really struggling this year. All his friends are coupled up - the "rhyming couplets" as he calls them - and he's feeling lonely, He wants some happiness of his own, to love and be loved, but doesn't know how that's going to happen, when he doesn't feel he can admit to who he is.
When Love Comes to Town is a coming out story, and I've heard a lot of people have problems with coming out stories; there are too many of them about, we're at a time now when coming out, although difficult, isn't the only story LGBTQ people have to tell. This is the first coming out story I've read, but what I think makes this one different from the other coming out stories, possibly, is when it was published and where it's set - in 1993, set in Ireland. There are no mobiles and no internet. If Neil wants to make a private phone call, he has to use a payphone. It's also set in deeply religious Ireland, where being open about your sexuality doesn't seem all that wise. My knowledge of how things are in Ireland isn't that great, but if it would still be considered unwise to be open about your sexuality, at least now there is the internet where an LGBTQ person can find support groups and people like themselves, and not feel so alone. Neil doesn't have any of that. All he has is the local gay pub/club, a place which he struggles with. He feels so alone, and is so lonely, your heart goes out to him.
When Love Comes to Town is the first book I've read that covers a person's first experience of a gay pub/club. Probably because of when it's written, at first the pub seems to be just a place for gay people to try to find someone to take home, or go home with. The first time he goes, the whole evening is spent with a man he refers to as Uncle Sugar hitting on him. Buying him drinks, complimenting him, offering him a lift home. Neil is really put off by this guy as he's as old as his father, but uses him for company as he feels ridiculous and out of place. But over time, the pub becomes his haven, a place where he can be himself, once he makes friends. He realises he's not completely alone. He makes friends with a couple, one of whom was a few years over him at school, with an extremely camp guy who calls himself Daphne, and with a couple of cross-dressers. Neil has his eyes opened at the pub with just how many LGBTQ people there are, and how different they are. But although he now has friends who are like himself, and he starts a relationship, there is a part of him that still suffers. He can't admit to who he really is outside of certain circles.
There is a huge element of self-hatred at times throughout the book. He wonders why he was born this way, why he couldn't be born straight, and questions whether he could force himself to become straight by having a girlfriend. He also mentions that he has considered suicide a few times, and prays for Jesus to strike him dead, thinking everyone would be better off, everything would be easier. It's really difficult to read, because he just knows he wouldn't be accepted by those he cares about most.
I can't really say much more without spoiling the story - this really is just surface stuff. It's a fantastic book, a surprising one, and one that opened my eyes. It's a heartbreaking but moving story, and one that makes even me appreciate how things have moved forward in twenty years. I highly recommend it.
Thank you to Albert Whitman Teen and NetGalley for the proof.
December 28, 2023
Creo que es una muy buena historia, mal desarrollada. Sinceramente el principio de la historia es bueno, pone un muy buen contexto y es cautivador. El final es lo que me disgustó mucho. No solo que el final no sea necesariamente positivo, pero creo que se pudo haber desarrollado de una manera completamente distinta. Creo que hay muchas oportunidades perdidas con la historia, personajes muy poco desarrollados que tenían mucho potencial, y en general me distrajo mucho la manera en la que están escritas algunas partes. El hecho de comenzar un párrafo en tercera persona y terminar el mismo párrafo en primera creo que lo vuelve pesado y confuso. Realmente no disfruté mucho la segunda mitad, me decepcionó mucho. Lo siento.
April 30, 2013
With a new introduction by James Klise
First US Edition!
25th Anniversary
Meet Neil Byrne - try-scorer on the rugby field, prizewinning student, one of the in-crowd at the disco, regular guy, gay. Presenting one face to the world and burying his true feelings in fantasy, Neil manages to keep his secret. But when fantasy isn't enough and he becomes caught up in the bizarre subculture of Dublin's gay nightlife, the pretense must end. It is the time for truth. The consequences are both hilarious and painful. Told with honesty, humour and originality, When Love Comes to Town brings a new type of hero to modern Irish fiction.
When Love Comes To Town by Tom Lennon is a story is set in Ireland in the early 90s. As it is described by the author, it is a coming out story of the main character, Neil Byrne.
Neil is popular, well liked, yet stuck as he is and yet all the time, deep down, he is sure that he is gay. We have to remember that the times of which this book was written were different, and not as accepting. Not that it is that much different these days. Everyone then would say that they are fine with people who are gay, just as long as they stay away from you. So the world at large was pretty much closeted bigots.
I cried, but that' s because I'm overly sensitive to the plight of the LGBT community, knowing that the community have some of my own family and friends involved.
When I first looked into the blurb, I thought that this was usually not the type of book that I would read, because, like my movies, I tend to go for faster paced and action filled story lines, with great character and plot development thrown in. At first glance, this was looked like an autobiography and I usually do not touch those.
Reading on, I began to empathize with what the main character had to deal with, and what most gay people have to face when it has to deal with their decision to come out. I do not want to be in that position where the decision of whether it is worth losing friends and family or just lie about your life and yourself to make others around you happy. This must be the toughest decision to make and, for me, once they take that giant leap, they are all the better and stronger as individuals. When Love Comes To Town involves a great account of Neil's's inner turmoil, and probably in the year that this is based, what I would have thought, is that Neil is brave/courageous indeed.
I would hate to be in such a situation and faced with this decision... man it can't be easy for them. It is easy for us to read about them, but to be them, I'll be in way over my head..
When Love Comes To Town is a good book to read and will give the readers an understanding of their troubles, thoughts and decisions they might face in coming out and I highly recommend it.
Review based on ARC sent by Netgalley.
First US Edition!
25th Anniversary
Meet Neil Byrne - try-scorer on the rugby field, prizewinning student, one of the in-crowd at the disco, regular guy, gay. Presenting one face to the world and burying his true feelings in fantasy, Neil manages to keep his secret. But when fantasy isn't enough and he becomes caught up in the bizarre subculture of Dublin's gay nightlife, the pretense must end. It is the time for truth. The consequences are both hilarious and painful. Told with honesty, humour and originality, When Love Comes to Town brings a new type of hero to modern Irish fiction.
When Love Comes To Town by Tom Lennon is a story is set in Ireland in the early 90s. As it is described by the author, it is a coming out story of the main character, Neil Byrne.
Neil is popular, well liked, yet stuck as he is and yet all the time, deep down, he is sure that he is gay. We have to remember that the times of which this book was written were different, and not as accepting. Not that it is that much different these days. Everyone then would say that they are fine with people who are gay, just as long as they stay away from you. So the world at large was pretty much closeted bigots.
I cried, but that' s because I'm overly sensitive to the plight of the LGBT community, knowing that the community have some of my own family and friends involved.
When I first looked into the blurb, I thought that this was usually not the type of book that I would read, because, like my movies, I tend to go for faster paced and action filled story lines, with great character and plot development thrown in. At first glance, this was looked like an autobiography and I usually do not touch those.
Reading on, I began to empathize with what the main character had to deal with, and what most gay people have to face when it has to deal with their decision to come out. I do not want to be in that position where the decision of whether it is worth losing friends and family or just lie about your life and yourself to make others around you happy. This must be the toughest decision to make and, for me, once they take that giant leap, they are all the better and stronger as individuals. When Love Comes To Town involves a great account of Neil's's inner turmoil, and probably in the year that this is based, what I would have thought, is that Neil is brave/courageous indeed.
I would hate to be in such a situation and faced with this decision... man it can't be easy for them. It is easy for us to read about them, but to be them, I'll be in way over my head..
When Love Comes To Town is a good book to read and will give the readers an understanding of their troubles, thoughts and decisions they might face in coming out and I highly recommend it.
Review based on ARC sent by Netgalley.
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