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Riding with Brighton
Yesterday, Jay was convinced his life was damaged beyond repair.
Yesterday, Brighton was sure his life was perfect.
Then today happened.
Realizing he’s wasted his life in the meaningless pursuit of popularity and athleticism, Jay Hall knows he has nothing in common with alternative, free-thinking artist Brighton Bello-Adler. But he’s determined to change that.
Brighton’s managed to fill his life with an eclectic mix of people and interests that keep him satisfied. As the only gay guy in his small town, the one thing that’s missing is a man, but Jay’s not gay, so Brighton’s not sure what he’ll gain by letting him into his life. Still, he’s willing to find out.
Heading off on an impromptu road trip, the boys chart a course connecting their worlds, and along the way discover pieces of themselves they didn’t know were missing. As the sun rises on a new day, Jay and Brighton know their lives have changed. Now they just have to figure out how to live in them.
In a fresh and clever romance that turns stereotypes upside down, the journey to coming out and coming of age is full of challenges and surprises, but ultimately, acceptance and love.
Yesterday, Brighton was sure his life was perfect.
Then today happened.
Realizing he’s wasted his life in the meaningless pursuit of popularity and athleticism, Jay Hall knows he has nothing in common with alternative, free-thinking artist Brighton Bello-Adler. But he’s determined to change that.
Brighton’s managed to fill his life with an eclectic mix of people and interests that keep him satisfied. As the only gay guy in his small town, the one thing that’s missing is a man, but Jay’s not gay, so Brighton’s not sure what he’ll gain by letting him into his life. Still, he’s willing to find out.
Heading off on an impromptu road trip, the boys chart a course connecting their worlds, and along the way discover pieces of themselves they didn’t know were missing. As the sun rises on a new day, Jay and Brighton know their lives have changed. Now they just have to figure out how to live in them.
In a fresh and clever romance that turns stereotypes upside down, the journey to coming out and coming of age is full of challenges and surprises, but ultimately, acceptance and love.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2017
71 people are currently reading
1864 people want to read
About the author
Haven Francis
10 books92 followersAn escapist filled with wanderlust, writing is Haven’s responsible adult version of getting in the car and driving without aim. Reading and music are close seconds. She and her husband can often be found checking out their favorite bands locally or hundreds of miles away via road trips. Reading is something they don’t have in common, but he tolerates her dimly lit late-night habit.
Haven once made a living writing about trends in interior design but thoroughly enjoys that fact that people, unlike furniture, can fall in love. She especially loves when they fall desperately and into a forbidden kind of love. Haven also works as a graphic designer but considers Mom her most important title.
She has a slightly embarrassing fascination with the period of life that sits awkwardly between childhood and adulthood; the years when nothing is certain, lots of mistakes are made, falling in love is inevitable, and finding yourself is a struggle. For her it’s a fun place to escape to and she hopes her readers agree.
Haven once made a living writing about trends in interior design but thoroughly enjoys that fact that people, unlike furniture, can fall in love. She especially loves when they fall desperately and into a forbidden kind of love. Haven also works as a graphic designer but considers Mom her most important title.
She has a slightly embarrassing fascination with the period of life that sits awkwardly between childhood and adulthood; the years when nothing is certain, lots of mistakes are made, falling in love is inevitable, and finding yourself is a struggle. For her it’s a fun place to escape to and she hopes her readers agree.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
December 19, 2018
3.5 Stars
This coming-of-age M/M story follows popular high school senior Jay Hall as he reassesses his life over the course of one profound and life-altering weekend while in the company of his secret crush, Brighton Bello-Adler.
Jay wakes up one morning and realises he doesn’t like who he is or where his life is headed. He wants to be different. He wants to be himself, for once, instead of the version of a popular, straight, high school jock he feels he’s been emulating for years. What Jay mostly wants, though, is to be as brave and confident as Brighton, the out and proud gay kid he sits next to in history class. In truth, Jay isn’t too sure if he simply wants to be like Brighton or be with Brighton, but either way, he wants the chance to find out.
Brighton has his head on right. He’s been extremely lucky to have a family who love and support him unconditionally, encouraging him to be himself and explore the things in life he loves. He’s had his ups and downs with romance, but he’s happy with who he is and contented to wait for the right person to come along. When Jay asks Brighton to hang out outside of school, under the pretence of making new friends, Brighton is open to the idea but also cautious, wondering whether this presumably straight guy he’s known for years is perhaps a little gay-curious.
What begins as a weekend simply hanging out and getting to know one another while running some interesting and unique errands, turns into an emotionally charged, life-changing experience for both boys. Jay finally acknowledges the truth of his sexuality, and, with the full support of Brighton, Jay begins to make the big changes in his life that are necessary to his truth and happiness.
This story was thought-provoking and emotionally engaging, particularly for a YA read. It may have only been set over the course of a few days but they were an eventful and intense few days, with Jay practically experiencing the weight of a life-time of emotions in a very short period of time.
With the exception of Jay’s mother’s grossly exaggerated reactions and behaviour towards the end of the story, everything else experienced by Jay felt authentic. I liked how his relationship with Brighton grew and changed over the course of the story. They seemed like a good fit together, and Brighton was certainly the support and strength Jay needed during this fragile time in his life. Their romance was only just beginning here, but it held great promise for the future.
I enjoyed this story a good deal. It reminded me a lot of a few coming-of-age films I hold dear to my heart, like Say Anything – it had that same introspective, philosophical vibe to it, which keep me fully engaged and deeply thinking throughout.
My rating would have been higher had it not been for some of the more over-the-top and perhaps rushed events that happened in the last quarter of the story. As I mentioned, Jay’s mother was a huge problem for me – not just because she was unaccepting of Jay’s sexuality, but because her reasons for feeling so were so wildly illogical and ridiculous that I lost a teeny tiny bit of the awe I’d been experiencing earlier in the story. In my opinion, some of the end of story dramatics weren’t necessary for the story to make an impact – in fact, I feel like the impact was reduced because of the pointless, OTT drama, which was a shame.
Aside from my end-of-story niggles, I largely enjoyed this reading experience and will be keeping an eye out for more of Francis’ potential M/M themed works.
This coming-of-age M/M story follows popular high school senior Jay Hall as he reassesses his life over the course of one profound and life-altering weekend while in the company of his secret crush, Brighton Bello-Adler.
Jay wakes up one morning and realises he doesn’t like who he is or where his life is headed. He wants to be different. He wants to be himself, for once, instead of the version of a popular, straight, high school jock he feels he’s been emulating for years. What Jay mostly wants, though, is to be as brave and confident as Brighton, the out and proud gay kid he sits next to in history class. In truth, Jay isn’t too sure if he simply wants to be like Brighton or be with Brighton, but either way, he wants the chance to find out.
Brighton has his head on right. He’s been extremely lucky to have a family who love and support him unconditionally, encouraging him to be himself and explore the things in life he loves. He’s had his ups and downs with romance, but he’s happy with who he is and contented to wait for the right person to come along. When Jay asks Brighton to hang out outside of school, under the pretence of making new friends, Brighton is open to the idea but also cautious, wondering whether this presumably straight guy he’s known for years is perhaps a little gay-curious.
What begins as a weekend simply hanging out and getting to know one another while running some interesting and unique errands, turns into an emotionally charged, life-changing experience for both boys. Jay finally acknowledges the truth of his sexuality, and, with the full support of Brighton, Jay begins to make the big changes in his life that are necessary to his truth and happiness.
This story was thought-provoking and emotionally engaging, particularly for a YA read. It may have only been set over the course of a few days but they were an eventful and intense few days, with Jay practically experiencing the weight of a life-time of emotions in a very short period of time.
With the exception of Jay’s mother’s grossly exaggerated reactions and behaviour towards the end of the story, everything else experienced by Jay felt authentic. I liked how his relationship with Brighton grew and changed over the course of the story. They seemed like a good fit together, and Brighton was certainly the support and strength Jay needed during this fragile time in his life. Their romance was only just beginning here, but it held great promise for the future.
I enjoyed this story a good deal. It reminded me a lot of a few coming-of-age films I hold dear to my heart, like Say Anything – it had that same introspective, philosophical vibe to it, which keep me fully engaged and deeply thinking throughout.
My rating would have been higher had it not been for some of the more over-the-top and perhaps rushed events that happened in the last quarter of the story. As I mentioned, Jay’s mother was a huge problem for me – not just because she was unaccepting of Jay’s sexuality, but because her reasons for feeling so were so wildly illogical and ridiculous that I lost a teeny tiny bit of the awe I’d been experiencing earlier in the story. In my opinion, some of the end of story dramatics weren’t necessary for the story to make an impact – in fact, I feel like the impact was reduced because of the pointless, OTT drama, which was a shame.
Aside from my end-of-story niggles, I largely enjoyed this reading experience and will be keeping an eye out for more of Francis’ potential M/M themed works.
May 25, 2019
3 stars rounded up to 4. Yep, you read that right.
It’s a 3-star book (like/recommend). It is. Several things made it that. Most significant for me, the character development could have used some work. As likable as the MCs were, several times I actually forgot the POV of the current chapter because their voices were so similar. Also, the storyline in the last quarter of the book felt like it flew in outta nowhere. It was a huge chunk to bite off, complete with back story, and I’m sure I had a confounded look on my face for the length of your average sitcom.
But I just had so much damn fun reading it, and 3 stars would not reflect that. The 4th is a completely illogical move, and probably more than anything else, it reflects my love of reading about this coming of age time period. There’s just something so engaging about the raging emotions, hormones, cockiness, insecurities, and questions during this time of life. Life can change on a dime, and it does so all the time at that age, which is one of the things this story beautifully demonstrated.
So I guess the 4th star is basically for the intangibles that the author managed. I can't find it in black and white, but there’s fairy dust here. I couldn’t help but love it.
#teambrightonandjay
It’s a 3-star book (like/recommend). It is. Several things made it that. Most significant for me, the character development could have used some work. As likable as the MCs were, several times I actually forgot the POV of the current chapter because their voices were so similar. Also, the storyline in the last quarter of the book felt like it flew in outta nowhere. It was a huge chunk to bite off, complete with back story, and I’m sure I had a confounded look on my face for the length of your average sitcom.
But I just had so much damn fun reading it, and 3 stars would not reflect that. The 4th is a completely illogical move, and probably more than anything else, it reflects my love of reading about this coming of age time period. There’s just something so engaging about the raging emotions, hormones, cockiness, insecurities, and questions during this time of life. Life can change on a dime, and it does so all the time at that age, which is one of the things this story beautifully demonstrated.
So I guess the 4th star is basically for the intangibles that the author managed. I can't find it in black and white, but there’s fairy dust here. I couldn’t help but love it.
#teambrightonandjay
March 20, 2022
thanks for the rec, Marci! 😘
[3.4~3.5] contrary to what the title and cover might imply, there wasn't a big road trip (sad) but rather two boys driving around town in this tale of "how to come out to the world in 24 hours." the timeframe doesn't lend itself to a very in depth dissection of Jay's inner thoughts and turmoil, unfortunately, but the main reason the rating is right on the borderline between 3 and 4 stars, and i'm very tempted to go down is the grossly excessive mama drama llama at the end. now i've seen my fair share of OTT parental homophobic drama, but this took the cake by far with her nonsensically overblown reactions and flimsy reasoning. if only this dramatic subplot had been excluded 😔 but besides that big hiccup, it was still an enjoyable read overall ✨
[3.4~3.5] contrary to what the title and cover might imply, there wasn't a big road trip (sad) but rather two boys driving around town in this tale of "how to come out to the world in 24 hours." the timeframe doesn't lend itself to a very in depth dissection of Jay's inner thoughts and turmoil, unfortunately, but the main reason the rating is right on the borderline between 3 and 4 stars, and i'm very tempted to go down is the grossly excessive mama drama llama at the end. now i've seen my fair share of OTT parental homophobic drama, but this took the cake by far with her nonsensically overblown reactions and flimsy reasoning. if only this dramatic subplot had been excluded 😔 but besides that big hiccup, it was still an enjoyable read overall ✨
September 4, 2023
4,5 stars rounded up.
This book drew my attention because of the cover, and when I read the blurb, I was intrigued. I'm a regular reader of YA and Coming of age novels, and this one seemed to be promising. I never read anything by this author before, but I must admit I was happily surprised. I really enjoyed this, I loved the real life dialogues and I loved the idea that one day, one epiphany, has the power to make lifetime changes.
Jay is a popular jock and he secretly admires Brighton. Brighton, who seems to be comfortable in his own skin. Brighton, who is openly gay. Brighton, who has easy, beautiful smiles and who gets along with every teacher and student.
One day Jay realizes there is nothing special about him. He seems to be one in a dozen. He wears the same clothes as his friends. He has the same stupid and non interesting conversations with them. He goes to the same stupid party's. He wishes he could be more like Brighton.
When he finally finds the courage to approach Brighton and ask him to hang out with him, he could not foresee how this moment would be life changing.
This story mostly takes place during one day. Brighton takes Jay to see places around their small town, and while doing so, they talk. And it makes Jay realize what he's been denying all of his life: he doesn't just admire Brighton and wants to be like him - he is attracted to him. To Jay, Brighton is the personification of everything he wants - a beautiful, interesting guy he wants to kiss and touch. A guy he wants to show his true self.
Brighton has had the same feelings for Jay. But seeing Jay as the jock he always seemed to be, including his jock friends and the way they act in school, Brighton thought Jay would always be a distant attraction and nothing more.
Because of all these previous feelings, this story didn't feel like insta love, a trope I'm allergic to. I loved how Jay and Brighton talked, and how Brighton made Jay feel safe enough to open up and be honest with him. I also liked how Brighton told Jay they could never be anything more until Jay broke up with his girlfriend - a girl he liked, but never felt attracted to.
Around the 80% mark, this book did get a bit more angsty than I expected. There was a twist I hadn't seen coming, but one that made sense. It's an explantation to why Jay became the guy he was, the jock who loved sports and who was afraid he wasn't able to live up to his parent's expectations.
I loved how understanding and patient Brighton was, where Jay was confused and didn't know how to respond, torn between his parents and his new boyfriend. And without realizing, Brighton's mom had the most wonderful, beautiful and heartbreaking interference!
If you enjoy reading YA and Coming of age as much as I do, I know you are going to enjoy this book.
This book drew my attention because of the cover, and when I read the blurb, I was intrigued. I'm a regular reader of YA and Coming of age novels, and this one seemed to be promising. I never read anything by this author before, but I must admit I was happily surprised. I really enjoyed this, I loved the real life dialogues and I loved the idea that one day, one epiphany, has the power to make lifetime changes.
Jay is a popular jock and he secretly admires Brighton. Brighton, who seems to be comfortable in his own skin. Brighton, who is openly gay. Brighton, who has easy, beautiful smiles and who gets along with every teacher and student.
One day Jay realizes there is nothing special about him. He seems to be one in a dozen. He wears the same clothes as his friends. He has the same stupid and non interesting conversations with them. He goes to the same stupid party's. He wishes he could be more like Brighton.
When he finally finds the courage to approach Brighton and ask him to hang out with him, he could not foresee how this moment would be life changing.
This story mostly takes place during one day. Brighton takes Jay to see places around their small town, and while doing so, they talk. And it makes Jay realize what he's been denying all of his life: he doesn't just admire Brighton and wants to be like him - he is attracted to him. To Jay, Brighton is the personification of everything he wants - a beautiful, interesting guy he wants to kiss and touch. A guy he wants to show his true self.
Brighton has had the same feelings for Jay. But seeing Jay as the jock he always seemed to be, including his jock friends and the way they act in school, Brighton thought Jay would always be a distant attraction and nothing more.
Because of all these previous feelings, this story didn't feel like insta love, a trope I'm allergic to. I loved how Jay and Brighton talked, and how Brighton made Jay feel safe enough to open up and be honest with him. I also liked how Brighton told Jay they could never be anything more until Jay broke up with his girlfriend - a girl he liked, but never felt attracted to.
Around the 80% mark, this book did get a bit more angsty than I expected. There was a twist I hadn't seen coming, but one that made sense. It's an explantation to why Jay became the guy he was, the jock who loved sports and who was afraid he wasn't able to live up to his parent's expectations.
I loved how understanding and patient Brighton was, where Jay was confused and didn't know how to respond, torn between his parents and his new boyfriend. And without realizing, Brighton's mom had the most wonderful, beautiful and heartbreaking interference!
If you enjoy reading YA and Coming of age as much as I do, I know you are going to enjoy this book.
March 27, 2024
✰ 2.75 stars ✰
“Every stop Jay and I make today brings us somewhere new. Like we’re packing a year of experiences into one day.
And every time we get back in the Bronco, we’re different versions of Brighton and Jay. Which feels like a real legit thing now.
Jay and I are something.”
I suppose the fact that Ferris Bueller's Day Off is one of my least favorite 80s film, it should be of no surprise to myself that Riding with Brighton left me with the same feelings as Matthew Broderick did; not even his gorgeous looks could make me warm up to it. 😣 I was hoping that the story would take place over a course of a few days - making for a road trip that would allow the two high school seniors a chance to reflect on their lives and their choices, to come to some meaningful revelations that would impact their lives. The fact that almost all of those life-altering momentous moments were crammed into one very long day of a weekend only where eighteen-year-old Jay accompanied Brighton on various errands, whilst the latter shared his knowledgeable take on the facets of life - mainly, Jay's questioning uncertainty over his own sexuality - it somewhat dimmed my investment in their relationship and their eventual future. 🙎🏻♀️
“I was already having enough trouble keeping the denial alive…. But then today happened.”
I smile at him, the really big one, but I don’t cover it up with my hand.
“And today you showed me everything.”
Not to say that the characters weren't nice enough, because - they were. The start was interesting with Jay's narration leading us to show how his life suddenly changed with his meeting with Brighton - a reminder of how important it is to simply be who you are now - live your life in the now - before it is too late. I felt for Jay and his fear of coming out - too afraid of his mother or friends' rejection if they knew. 😔 It made sense that he would be inclined to ask Brighton for guidance - Brighton who was openly gay and proud of it - Brighton, who he secretly has desired from afar, but too hesitant to act upon it. ' And I seriously loved just being near you, and I had convinced myself that that was the reason why—literally wanted to be you.' His innocence and naivete was a sharp contrast to the confident swagger that Brighton oozed with such grace, but it definitely made him all the more desirable for Brighton, too. 😊
Despite the ease in which Brighton shared his philosophical and mindful view on Jay's perplexity and preconceived notions, I really appreciated how he never pushed him into doing anything or saying something he didn't think he was comfortable or ready yet to admit. It showed a lot of tact on Brighton's part - one that he's learned over time and refused to allow himself to be an experiment for straight people to realize whether they're gay or not. 🤌🏻🤌🏻 'I’m the brains, he’s the beauty. Together, we’re pretty much irresistible. He was self-assured with plenty of humorous advice, but he was also very patient and thoughtful of Jay's own personal dilemma. He kept his distance, but offered his guidance in a casual enough way that helped Jay gain the strength and the willful purpose of opening up about himself. The scenes with his family were also enjoyable, a warm and welcoming family that was a sharp contrast to Jay's own mother's slight approval. 😥
“I think about the conversation we had in Jones’s backyard about how almost everyone is hiding and pretending. Does the entire world suck? And why the hell does it have to be that way?
Why are we wired to care so damn much about what other people think? And why the hell do we feel the need to tear people down for being who they are?”
Perhaps most of my complaints arose in the way in which most of the conflicts of the plot were addressed. I did not fault Jay for being fearful of his mother's homophobic views, yet, when he was faced with the reality of it - it didn't feel natural or believable to me to the point that the way in even it was eventually resolved made it even more unbelievable at the abrupt change in her belief. ' I hope someday you can be happy with him. You both deserve that—to know each other, to love each other… to be happy.' 😟 As much as I didn't like the sudden shift, the way Brighton and his family lent their support to Jay during that difficult time was something I appreciated.
And as much as I'm all for team friendships, I can't say for sure if I enjoyed either of theirs here. There's something about being pushy, and then there's being pushy. And I know the author was trying to capture the difference between their accepting and diverse group against Jay's own cold-hearted and homophobic teammates, but when those homophobic and violent reactions erupted at their class party - I just couldn't get into it. It felt too contrived - too flat and too contrived for me to feel the full scale of what it was trying to achieve. 😕 Bullying and attacking the way that they did - fights just aren't my thing, I guess. Heated school altercations that read more comical than impactful, which ultimately end with running off into the dusk in the ultimate rush - yeah, it's not really my scene. It may work for some, but if it could have been avoided, I would not have been bothered in the slightest. 🤷🏻♀️
I was a bit surprised at how quickly they rushed into sleeping with each other; but, then again, I have read more than my share of instant lust romances, so I can't really hold it against them or be the judge of their hasty decisions. 😅 'Every day is a new day; every day has the potential to be great. I don’t remember ever thinking that before. Hope. Potential. Possibilities.' There was a certain sweetness to their flirtations that kept the story light and dare I say it, cute. It was cute how Brighton tempted Jay with their first kiss, the gentle reassurances that he shouldn't be afraid to want and be more than he is - even if it's years too late, with graduation just around the corner. ☺️ And after all, if their one day together has proved anything to them is how important it is to live in the moment - 'the less years of regret you have, the better. But if you already have them, don’t feel bad. There are always lessons learned from regret.' For the chances that come your way - you should definitely make the most of them, because you'll regret not taking them when you could have. 🫶🏻
“I don’t want this day to end.”
“There’s no reason every day can’t be like this one.”
“No day will ever be like this one.”
“Well, no, but every day can be as great as this one.”
Even after all the events that took place, the author does end their relationship on a positive, if not rather cheesy and light-hearted note - rounding up all the challenges they faced, as simply a stepping stone of adversity on the path to a future of happiness and acceptance. ' I swear I can see it… the realization, the relief, the fear, but the happiness too. The freedom.' 🥺 The idea was an interesting one, but it failed to capture the certain spark to make it a memorable read for me. Still, it was a pleasant enough ride for me to accompany two young men on the threshold of adulthood and discovering the endless possibilities of what awaits them - the courage and passion that they'll be able to make it forward, as long as they have each other. 💞
“Every stop Jay and I make today brings us somewhere new. Like we’re packing a year of experiences into one day.
And every time we get back in the Bronco, we’re different versions of Brighton and Jay. Which feels like a real legit thing now.
Jay and I are something.”
I suppose the fact that Ferris Bueller's Day Off is one of my least favorite 80s film, it should be of no surprise to myself that Riding with Brighton left me with the same feelings as Matthew Broderick did; not even his gorgeous looks could make me warm up to it. 😣 I was hoping that the story would take place over a course of a few days - making for a road trip that would allow the two high school seniors a chance to reflect on their lives and their choices, to come to some meaningful revelations that would impact their lives. The fact that almost all of those life-altering momentous moments were crammed into one very long day of a weekend only where eighteen-year-old Jay accompanied Brighton on various errands, whilst the latter shared his knowledgeable take on the facets of life - mainly, Jay's questioning uncertainty over his own sexuality - it somewhat dimmed my investment in their relationship and their eventual future. 🙎🏻♀️
“I was already having enough trouble keeping the denial alive…. But then today happened.”
I smile at him, the really big one, but I don’t cover it up with my hand.
“And today you showed me everything.”
Not to say that the characters weren't nice enough, because - they were. The start was interesting with Jay's narration leading us to show how his life suddenly changed with his meeting with Brighton - a reminder of how important it is to simply be who you are now - live your life in the now - before it is too late. I felt for Jay and his fear of coming out - too afraid of his mother or friends' rejection if they knew. 😔 It made sense that he would be inclined to ask Brighton for guidance - Brighton who was openly gay and proud of it - Brighton, who he secretly has desired from afar, but too hesitant to act upon it. ' And I seriously loved just being near you, and I had convinced myself that that was the reason why—literally wanted to be you.' His innocence and naivete was a sharp contrast to the confident swagger that Brighton oozed with such grace, but it definitely made him all the more desirable for Brighton, too. 😊
Despite the ease in which Brighton shared his philosophical and mindful view on Jay's perplexity and preconceived notions, I really appreciated how he never pushed him into doing anything or saying something he didn't think he was comfortable or ready yet to admit. It showed a lot of tact on Brighton's part - one that he's learned over time and refused to allow himself to be an experiment for straight people to realize whether they're gay or not. 🤌🏻🤌🏻 'I’m the brains, he’s the beauty. Together, we’re pretty much irresistible. He was self-assured with plenty of humorous advice, but he was also very patient and thoughtful of Jay's own personal dilemma. He kept his distance, but offered his guidance in a casual enough way that helped Jay gain the strength and the willful purpose of opening up about himself. The scenes with his family were also enjoyable, a warm and welcoming family that was a sharp contrast to Jay's own mother's slight approval. 😥
“I think about the conversation we had in Jones’s backyard about how almost everyone is hiding and pretending. Does the entire world suck? And why the hell does it have to be that way?
Why are we wired to care so damn much about what other people think? And why the hell do we feel the need to tear people down for being who they are?”
Perhaps most of my complaints arose in the way in which most of the conflicts of the plot were addressed. I did not fault Jay for being fearful of his mother's homophobic views, yet, when he was faced with the reality of it - it didn't feel natural or believable to me to the point that the way in even it was eventually resolved made it even more unbelievable at the abrupt change in her belief. ' I hope someday you can be happy with him. You both deserve that—to know each other, to love each other… to be happy.' 😟 As much as I didn't like the sudden shift, the way Brighton and his family lent their support to Jay during that difficult time was something I appreciated.
And as much as I'm all for team friendships, I can't say for sure if I enjoyed either of theirs here. There's something about being pushy, and then there's being pushy. And I know the author was trying to capture the difference between their accepting and diverse group against Jay's own cold-hearted and homophobic teammates, but when those homophobic and violent reactions erupted at their class party - I just couldn't get into it. It felt too contrived - too flat and too contrived for me to feel the full scale of what it was trying to achieve. 😕 Bullying and attacking the way that they did - fights just aren't my thing, I guess. Heated school altercations that read more comical than impactful, which ultimately end with running off into the dusk in the ultimate rush - yeah, it's not really my scene. It may work for some, but if it could have been avoided, I would not have been bothered in the slightest. 🤷🏻♀️
I was a bit surprised at how quickly they rushed into sleeping with each other; but, then again, I have read more than my share of instant lust romances, so I can't really hold it against them or be the judge of their hasty decisions. 😅 'Every day is a new day; every day has the potential to be great. I don’t remember ever thinking that before. Hope. Potential. Possibilities.' There was a certain sweetness to their flirtations that kept the story light and dare I say it, cute. It was cute how Brighton tempted Jay with their first kiss, the gentle reassurances that he shouldn't be afraid to want and be more than he is - even if it's years too late, with graduation just around the corner. ☺️ And after all, if their one day together has proved anything to them is how important it is to live in the moment - 'the less years of regret you have, the better. But if you already have them, don’t feel bad. There are always lessons learned from regret.' For the chances that come your way - you should definitely make the most of them, because you'll regret not taking them when you could have. 🫶🏻
“I don’t want this day to end.”
“There’s no reason every day can’t be like this one.”
“No day will ever be like this one.”
“Well, no, but every day can be as great as this one.”
Even after all the events that took place, the author does end their relationship on a positive, if not rather cheesy and light-hearted note - rounding up all the challenges they faced, as simply a stepping stone of adversity on the path to a future of happiness and acceptance. ' I swear I can see it… the realization, the relief, the fear, but the happiness too. The freedom.' 🥺 The idea was an interesting one, but it failed to capture the certain spark to make it a memorable read for me. Still, it was a pleasant enough ride for me to accompany two young men on the threshold of adulthood and discovering the endless possibilities of what awaits them - the courage and passion that they'll be able to make it forward, as long as they have each other. 💞
October 10, 2018
I am not a huge fan of YA but this book manages to mix a good bit of serious mature conversations while still keeping it YA. Jay has an epiphany and decides he is going to tell the boy he likes that he is gay and interested.
Jay is a jock stereotype and has been lying to himself for a long time. He has been obsessed with Brighton for quite some time. At first he thought he wanted to be like him but as time went on he realized he wanted to be with him.
The book is well written and the story flows well. The boys have great chemistry, they are mature, and intelligent.
What I disliked is that everything in this book happens in the span of a weekend and it is just too much to digest.
Not a bad read especially if YA romances are your thing because there is a lot of that here. The boys really declare their like for each other.
Jay is a jock stereotype and has been lying to himself for a long time. He has been obsessed with Brighton for quite some time. At first he thought he wanted to be like him but as time went on he realized he wanted to be with him.
The book is well written and the story flows well. The boys have great chemistry, they are mature, and intelligent.
What I disliked is that everything in this book happens in the span of a weekend and it is just too much to digest.
Not a bad read especially if YA romances are your thing because there is a lot of that here. The boys really declare their like for each other.
December 30, 2017
Update: It's available NOW!!
https://www.amazon.com/Riding-Brighto...
Riding with Brighton will be released through Harmony Ink Press on June 27th!
https://www.amazon.com/Riding-Brighto...
Riding with Brighton will be released through Harmony Ink Press on June 27th!
November 14, 2017
2.5/5 - This review has spoilers, but nothing too serious.
First off, it was the cover that drew me to this book. I found it to be beautiful and simple and I would love to have it has a poster. Kudos to the artist, you're amazing.
Not only that, but the plot summary for the book was amazing, and immediately drew me in. A popular, young jock questioning his sexuality embarks on a road trip with a fellow, openly gay student, discovering themselves along the way. I went into this expecting a road trip story about self-discovery and friendship and possible fluff romance, but instead got a mediocre smut (?)romance story about two boys who drove around town for a few hours. When I hear 'road trip', I am thinking 'let's drive to this location that's 5-6 + hours away!' not the local diner and a sculpture park (oh sorry, forgot about the lake area). I'm pretty sure that doesn't constitute as a road trip, but okay?
This book made you think it was something and it was a complete different story. Instead we get a jock who questions his sexuality, has a crisis and ends up having sex 6 hours after coming out and making out with this kid for the entirety of the book??? I found the entire coming out to be completely unbelievable. I grew up in a small rural area (just one state away from the setting of this book actually, in an actual homophobic community) and I'm 100% sure coming to terms with my sexuality did not even come close to this. Jay and Brighton live in a close minded small town (I'm guessing near Minneapolis) and Jay's mother seems to be extremely homophobic and extremely religious and it seems impossible to think that a kid who grew up in such a household, in such a community, who struggled with himself and his sexuality is just...this?! I mean I guess someone's coming out might have been like this, but I find it extremely difficult to believe.
I am trying to find a nice way to say this, but you can tell a woman who is most likely straight (I didn't see anywhere, where she identified as bi/pan/queer so I apologize in advance if she is) wrote this story. Instead of focusing on Jay's insecurities, his struggles and completely emotional moments, we have steamy make outs. Which, if that's your thing, go ahead I suppose? I found the first few chapters to be actually pretty good, Jay struggling, Brighton wanting to help him but that storyline was thrown out the SUV window for some lite smut.
See, I don't know why this book just rubs me the wrong way? Maybe it's because I am queer and I related to Jay in the beginning, in his struggle to fit in. He was relatable, scared and wanted to be someone he couldn't. Brighton actually wanting to help, but in the end, in my opinion, takes advantage of Jay during his low emotional point. This story just read as one of those situations where you have a canon gay couple and the female just hyper-focus/sexualize them. Not only that, but there was an insane amount of slurs in this book and the lovely trope of the bully is extremely homophobic so he must be gay!! which is a huge no in my books.....some people are just assholes Janet; let's not try and sugarcoat their shitty behavior by making them gay (even if it is for a joke).
I guess this is a case of a beautiful cover and an amazing plot summary hiding a bad story. She had this great idea and took it a completely different direction and I'm just disappointed that I fell for this trap.
First off, it was the cover that drew me to this book. I found it to be beautiful and simple and I would love to have it has a poster. Kudos to the artist, you're amazing.
Not only that, but the plot summary for the book was amazing, and immediately drew me in. A popular, young jock questioning his sexuality embarks on a road trip with a fellow, openly gay student, discovering themselves along the way. I went into this expecting a road trip story about self-discovery and friendship and possible fluff romance, but instead got a mediocre smut (?)romance story about two boys who drove around town for a few hours. When I hear 'road trip', I am thinking 'let's drive to this location that's 5-6 + hours away!' not the local diner and a sculpture park (oh sorry, forgot about the lake area). I'm pretty sure that doesn't constitute as a road trip, but okay?
This book made you think it was something and it was a complete different story. Instead we get a jock who questions his sexuality, has a crisis and ends up having sex 6 hours after coming out and making out with this kid for the entirety of the book??? I found the entire coming out to be completely unbelievable. I grew up in a small rural area (just one state away from the setting of this book actually, in an actual homophobic community) and I'm 100% sure coming to terms with my sexuality did not even come close to this. Jay and Brighton live in a close minded small town (I'm guessing near Minneapolis) and Jay's mother seems to be extremely homophobic and extremely religious and it seems impossible to think that a kid who grew up in such a household, in such a community, who struggled with himself and his sexuality is just...this?! I mean I guess someone's coming out might have been like this, but I find it extremely difficult to believe.
I am trying to find a nice way to say this, but you can tell a woman who is most likely straight (I didn't see anywhere, where she identified as bi/pan/queer so I apologize in advance if she is) wrote this story. Instead of focusing on Jay's insecurities, his struggles and completely emotional moments, we have steamy make outs. Which, if that's your thing, go ahead I suppose? I found the first few chapters to be actually pretty good, Jay struggling, Brighton wanting to help him but that storyline was thrown out the SUV window for some lite smut.
See, I don't know why this book just rubs me the wrong way? Maybe it's because I am queer and I related to Jay in the beginning, in his struggle to fit in. He was relatable, scared and wanted to be someone he couldn't. Brighton actually wanting to help, but in the end, in my opinion, takes advantage of Jay during his low emotional point. This story just read as one of those situations where you have a canon gay couple and the female just hyper-focus/sexualize them. Not only that, but there was an insane amount of slurs in this book and the lovely trope of the bully is extremely homophobic so he must be gay!! which is a huge no in my books.....some people are just assholes Janet; let's not try and sugarcoat their shitty behavior by making them gay (even if it is for a joke).
I guess this is a case of a beautiful cover and an amazing plot summary hiding a bad story. She had this great idea and took it a completely different direction and I'm just disappointed that I fell for this trap.
August 21, 2017
If you can't even talk about the things you want to do, how are you gonna actually do them?
¿Qué puedo decir? Pues me gustó, si, no puedo negarlo, me tuvo super atrapado y no podía dejar de leer para saber que iba a pasar, además de que el libro es super corto también y se lee muy rápido, la historia es muy simple y se trata de la vida de Jay y Brighton, más que nada Jay, como va pasando esa etapa tan difícil de su vida, un libro sobre aceptación y descubrirse uno mismo, es muy tierno.
Pero si, hay algo que no me gustó y es que la historia es super rápida y más de la mitad del libro pasa en un día, pasa todo tan rápido que no es tan creíble todo lo que pasa, salen algunos personajes pero es que no conocemos casi nada de ellos porque la historia se centra todo en nuestros protagonistas y creo que esta bien, no hacen mucha falta saber más de estos personajes pero que el libro fuera tan rápido fue algo que no me gustó. De resto, creo que el libro esta bien, es entretenido, tierno y romantico para leer en un ratito.
June 28, 2017
Jay Hall has had an epiphany. He wakes on Friday morning in the midst of a life-changing moment of clarity, and decides he needs to change his path. The kids he has always considered his friends are, with one or two exceptions, not the people he wants to be spending time with, nor is he the person he wants to be. The only thing he knows for sure is that in history class he’ll see Brighton, something he looks forward to every day, and suddenly, desperately needs. Thus begins the crazy, awesome, inspiring journey that is Riding with Brighton.
Brighton doesn’t know what to make of it, at first, when Jay says he wants to hang out and asks Brighton to meet him at the park. He’s pretty sure that Jay is having an “Am I gay?” moment, and wants Brighton, the only known gay guy in town, to help him clarify things. Brighton isn’t keen on this idea at all, but decides to humor Jay and invites him along on his errands for the day. A sort of day-in-the-life-of-Brighton, if you will. What Brighton doesn’t know is how deep Jay’s feelings for him already are. The day is a rollercoaster, mostly for Jay, but what they discover about each other and themselves is eye-opening for them both. Jay goes from being elated at the thought of finally being his true self, to terrified and filled with doubt. And then back again. Brighton is with him every step of the way, though, and some others in his life surprise him as well.
I looooved Brighton. He’s funny, kind, smart, and self-assured, yet also has some lingering insecurities from his last relationship. His family is also totally amazing. It’s clear where he gets his wonderful traits and approach to life from. And, Jay…this kid blew me away. The stuff that came out of him during his day with Brighton showed so much depth and heart. He’s awesome. And, I also loved Jay’s dad so, so much. I guarantee that every single person who reads this book will fall in love with him.
The dual POVs were so appreciated. I think it was important to be in Brighton’s head as well as Jay’s. With such an important coming out journey, it’s nice to have perspective from multiple players. And, the messages and questions raised by the book were fantastic. Messages like be yourself, and don’t do anything just because you think it will make you cool, or because you think it’s what other people want you to do. And, questions like ‘why are we so wired to care so much what other people think?’ And, this little gem that comes to Jay after his epiphany…
I LOVED this book, you guys. It has a strong Ferris Bueller’s Day Off vibe, which was so fantastic and fun. And, reading it reminded me of reading Simon vs The Homo Sapiens Agenda, which is like the highest of compliments. Just that feeling, right from the get-go, that the author has nailed it. Mostly I couldn’t stop smiling and giggling the entire time, but I also cried at the end. There was so much humor and love in the story, and so many awww-inspiring moments; I truly, completely adored it. Haven Francis absolutely won me over with Brighton and Jay. It’s tough to write a YA/NA book with the authentic voice this one has. I have no doubt I’ll end up reading it again at some point.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach
Brighton doesn’t know what to make of it, at first, when Jay says he wants to hang out and asks Brighton to meet him at the park. He’s pretty sure that Jay is having an “Am I gay?” moment, and wants Brighton, the only known gay guy in town, to help him clarify things. Brighton isn’t keen on this idea at all, but decides to humor Jay and invites him along on his errands for the day. A sort of day-in-the-life-of-Brighton, if you will. What Brighton doesn’t know is how deep Jay’s feelings for him already are. The day is a rollercoaster, mostly for Jay, but what they discover about each other and themselves is eye-opening for them both. Jay goes from being elated at the thought of finally being his true self, to terrified and filled with doubt. And then back again. Brighton is with him every step of the way, though, and some others in his life surprise him as well.
I looooved Brighton. He’s funny, kind, smart, and self-assured, yet also has some lingering insecurities from his last relationship. His family is also totally amazing. It’s clear where he gets his wonderful traits and approach to life from. And, Jay…this kid blew me away. The stuff that came out of him during his day with Brighton showed so much depth and heart. He’s awesome. And, I also loved Jay’s dad so, so much. I guarantee that every single person who reads this book will fall in love with him.
The dual POVs were so appreciated. I think it was important to be in Brighton’s head as well as Jay’s. With such an important coming out journey, it’s nice to have perspective from multiple players. And, the messages and questions raised by the book were fantastic. Messages like be yourself, and don’t do anything just because you think it will make you cool, or because you think it’s what other people want you to do. And, questions like ‘why are we so wired to care so much what other people think?’ And, this little gem that comes to Jay after his epiphany…
Change your life now.
Find your happiness now.
Be yourself now.
Speak your mind now.
If not, you’re gonna have regret. And regret totally sucks.
I LOVED this book, you guys. It has a strong Ferris Bueller’s Day Off vibe, which was so fantastic and fun. And, reading it reminded me of reading Simon vs The Homo Sapiens Agenda, which is like the highest of compliments. Just that feeling, right from the get-go, that the author has nailed it. Mostly I couldn’t stop smiling and giggling the entire time, but I also cried at the end. There was so much humor and love in the story, and so many awww-inspiring moments; I truly, completely adored it. Haven Francis absolutely won me over with Brighton and Jay. It’s tough to write a YA/NA book with the authentic voice this one has. I have no doubt I’ll end up reading it again at some point.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach
July 28, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
It’s hard to encapsulate all the really good and honest things about this story in a short review such as this. The several pages of encouragement/exhortation near the end of the novel are key to understanding what this author wanted to convey to her readers, I think. To paraphrase the author, the idea is to live your life fully right now, speak your mind, change what needs to be change, and find your happiness or you will regret it. The beauty of those sentiments is that they are not just spoken by Jay, but lived out by Brighton so fully. He encapsulates the best of gay youth. Some might say his is a more idyllic character than real, but I wouldn’t make that criticism. Instead, I would say that Brighton is a fairly realistic example of a young man who had great parents and all the advantages a stable, loving home can offer.
Jay, on the other hand, has a family that we so often read about these days where the parents are torn—one supportive, the other in deep denial. His friends are much the same and I really loved how this author gave Jay keen awareness of the fact that not only did his life not fit who he really was, but also most of his friends didn’t either. Even though this entire novel took place over the course of what turned out to be a few days, you knew that Jay had been grappling with his decision for quite some time. He was realistic about how the whole thing was going to go down and even though everyone from Brighton on questioned whether Jay was really ready to be out to the world, he knew he had to break the walls holding him in. He was so brave and so vulnerable—it was quite lovely to read.
Riding With Brighton is one of those books that should be on bookshelves in every library and required reading in every high school English class. It not only is a well-written and beautiful story, but its message is a positive one—something our youth today rarely get to hear but desperately need.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
It’s hard to encapsulate all the really good and honest things about this story in a short review such as this. The several pages of encouragement/exhortation near the end of the novel are key to understanding what this author wanted to convey to her readers, I think. To paraphrase the author, the idea is to live your life fully right now, speak your mind, change what needs to be change, and find your happiness or you will regret it. The beauty of those sentiments is that they are not just spoken by Jay, but lived out by Brighton so fully. He encapsulates the best of gay youth. Some might say his is a more idyllic character than real, but I wouldn’t make that criticism. Instead, I would say that Brighton is a fairly realistic example of a young man who had great parents and all the advantages a stable, loving home can offer.
Jay, on the other hand, has a family that we so often read about these days where the parents are torn—one supportive, the other in deep denial. His friends are much the same and I really loved how this author gave Jay keen awareness of the fact that not only did his life not fit who he really was, but also most of his friends didn’t either. Even though this entire novel took place over the course of what turned out to be a few days, you knew that Jay had been grappling with his decision for quite some time. He was realistic about how the whole thing was going to go down and even though everyone from Brighton on questioned whether Jay was really ready to be out to the world, he knew he had to break the walls holding him in. He was so brave and so vulnerable—it was quite lovely to read.
Riding With Brighton is one of those books that should be on bookshelves in every library and required reading in every high school English class. It not only is a well-written and beautiful story, but its message is a positive one—something our youth today rarely get to hear but desperately need.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
Want to read
September 13, 2018Price drop at amazon.com right now: https://smile.amazon.com/Riding-Brigh...
November 27, 2017
Quite frankly, for the first few pages I did not like the foul-mouthed, self-absorbed Jay Hall I was meeting. . . and then third period History happens. . . and I can't really say I'm in love with Brighton Bello-Aldo, the teacher's pet who comes in late for class everyday and charmingly gets away with it. But it just so happens that self-absorbed Jay is sitting in the seat next to privileged Brighton, and one of them forgot a pen, and the most realistic, humorous subliminal flirtatious dialogue brings these two 18-year-olds to life, and reader, you are h o o k e d.
This is a coming out story and a first love story between two guys who are completed by each other, and we don't find this out, we live it out, with them, over the course of a weekend, the weekend after one lends the other his Uni-ball, and the other makes fun of his Bic. And we realize the characters that we met in those early chapters weren't meant to be liked, until they could like themselves, and they need each other for that to unfold. And unfold they do, right into your heart..
So take a ride with Brighton and Jay, and see if you don't recall how it felt to fall in love, in this pearl of a YA novel about learning to face one's fears. This one is right up there with my favorite ARISTOTLE AND DANTE DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF THE UNIVERSE.
This is a coming out story and a first love story between two guys who are completed by each other, and we don't find this out, we live it out, with them, over the course of a weekend, the weekend after one lends the other his Uni-ball, and the other makes fun of his Bic. And we realize the characters that we met in those early chapters weren't meant to be liked, until they could like themselves, and they need each other for that to unfold. And unfold they do, right into your heart..
So take a ride with Brighton and Jay, and see if you don't recall how it felt to fall in love, in this pearl of a YA novel about learning to face one's fears. This one is right up there with my favorite ARISTOTLE AND DANTE DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF THE UNIVERSE.
November 18, 2018
I enjoyed the budding romance and coming out story of Jay, the boy who has everything. I also loved Brighton probably more so. This was not so much a road trip story as two boys oddly decide late in high school to spend an entire day together, cuz that happens, and their lives are forever changed.
It explores the consequences of decisions to come out well. Jay could lose family, popularity, his team, etc.
Now, the problems I found were of the quickness of the coming out, sexual encounter, and everything. Jay really comes to terms fast. We don’t get to see any inner turmoil leading up to the event here. I was mostly thrown off my the use of the word ‘kid’ by all of the characters. Kids don’t call each other kid very often. It felt out of place. Almost as much as Jay not bringing clothes to practice and showing up to a play date in his baseball uniform. No, sorry, that was a bad ploy to get him in Brighton’s clothes and it didn’t work.
Is that I’m done whining, I’ll say I liked this story overall, and I really liked how the actual book ended before the epilogue. It was open ended but I felt hopeful. The epilogue just tied a red ribbon all over it for good measure. It was feel good and that’s ok too.
I wish I had a Brighton to date back in high school.
It explores the consequences of decisions to come out well. Jay could lose family, popularity, his team, etc.
Now, the problems I found were of the quickness of the coming out, sexual encounter, and everything. Jay really comes to terms fast. We don’t get to see any inner turmoil leading up to the event here. I was mostly thrown off my the use of the word ‘kid’ by all of the characters. Kids don’t call each other kid very often. It felt out of place. Almost as much as Jay not bringing clothes to practice and showing up to a play date in his baseball uniform. No, sorry, that was a bad ploy to get him in Brighton’s clothes and it didn’t work.
Is that I’m done whining, I’ll say I liked this story overall, and I really liked how the actual book ended before the epilogue. It was open ended but I felt hopeful. The epilogue just tied a red ribbon all over it for good measure. It was feel good and that’s ok too.
I wish I had a Brighton to date back in high school.
August 2, 2017
I loved this story so much. I didn't even mind that it took place mostly all in one day. This was story was the catalyst day, the day that changed everything. Jay was dealing with so much fear and pain stuffed way down deep. It was slowly killing him. His obsession with Brighton was believable in that he saw in Brighton everything he wished he could be. Open and free. I loved watching the two enlighten each other. They both brought a different perspective and really gave the other something new to think about.
This story was really sweet. A wonderful coming of age story with two lonely boy finding more than they could have expected in each other. I may be a little bit in love with Brighton myself. I just wanted this one to keep going. I enjoyed these two as a couple, I wanted more time with them. 4.5 Stars
This story was really sweet. A wonderful coming of age story with two lonely boy finding more than they could have expected in each other. I may be a little bit in love with Brighton myself. I just wanted this one to keep going. I enjoyed these two as a couple, I wanted more time with them. 4.5 Stars
October 20, 2017
A life-changing journey
Jay has spent 18 years in the closet. That’s about to change one Saturday spent with the kid he idolizes. Brighton shares an American History class with Jay. Brighton likes Jay, but since Jay is straight...not going to go there. The two find themselves in a park at the start of the weekend. Brighton has some errands to run and so the two spend the day together. Jay finds the courage to shed his shell and starts to open up to Brighton.
I loved this book from page one. Even though Jay and Brighton covered a lot of ground in a single day, they did have a secret one-way crush that’s been going on for a while. I wanted to believe these two could find happiness together. Family, friends, love and acceptance of yourself and others is the theme. Some good laugh breaks along the way, too. 4.75 for epiphanies.
Jay has spent 18 years in the closet. That’s about to change one Saturday spent with the kid he idolizes. Brighton shares an American History class with Jay. Brighton likes Jay, but since Jay is straight...not going to go there. The two find themselves in a park at the start of the weekend. Brighton has some errands to run and so the two spend the day together. Jay finds the courage to shed his shell and starts to open up to Brighton.
I loved this book from page one. Even though Jay and Brighton covered a lot of ground in a single day, they did have a secret one-way crush that’s been going on for a while. I wanted to believe these two could find happiness together. Family, friends, love and acceptance of yourself and others is the theme. Some good laugh breaks along the way, too. 4.75 for epiphanies.
September 30, 2018
This was quite lovely.
It's a cute coming of age story that focuses on living your life for you.
I know I only gave this 3 stars, but I think if I had read it a couple of years ago I would have been fangirling hard.
Francis has given us two well developed characters that compliment each other.
Besides the romance there was a lot of self discovery, finding courage to go for what you want and a bit of family conflict.
Loved the dedication: For all the too kids.
It's a cute coming of age story that focuses on living your life for you.
I know I only gave this 3 stars, but I think if I had read it a couple of years ago I would have been fangirling hard.
Francis has given us two well developed characters that compliment each other.
Besides the romance there was a lot of self discovery, finding courage to go for what you want and a bit of family conflict.
Loved the dedication: For all the too kids.
May 17, 2019
This is a fave of my 2019 reads.
January 16, 2019
Gente... esse livro kkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk
No começo era um YA contemporâneo meio confusinho, mas ok. De repente VIROU UM ERÓTICO!
E foi isso o tempo inteiro. E sei lá... sei nem explicar isso aqui. Mas até teve uns bons momentos, e coisas interessantes e tals, mas nossa... é uma grande bagunça. Uma coisa atrás da outra e várias coisas inúteis e discursos repetitivos. MEU DEUS! Até pulei os últimos capítulos pq sem condições.
No começo era um YA contemporâneo meio confusinho, mas ok. De repente VIROU UM ERÓTICO!
E foi isso o tempo inteiro. E sei lá... sei nem explicar isso aqui. Mas até teve uns bons momentos, e coisas interessantes e tals, mas nossa... é uma grande bagunça. Uma coisa atrás da outra e várias coisas inúteis e discursos repetitivos. MEU DEUS! Até pulei os últimos capítulos pq sem condições.
June 24, 2017
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Jay is a jock and pretty much most popular guy in school. He wakes up on Friday morning and has an epiphany. He is not happy with his life and he wants to make changes. He realises his highlight of his week is the class he shares with Brighton, the school's only openly gay student.
The story follows Jay through and most amazing and transformative weekend of life. In class on Friday, Jay gets Brighton's number after a flirty, innuendo filled conversation about pens. On Saturday, a nervous Jay meets Brighton in a local park and he spends a fun filled day with Brighton exploring Brighton's world and their town.
With Brighton's help, Jay bravely take steps to come to terms with his sexuality and to change his life for the better. Jay is smitten with Brighton and it is easy to see why. Brighton is adventurous, full of life, creative, entrepreneurial and list goes on. I loved their conversations and their honesty with each other.
While the guys are together in their own little bubble everything is great, but eventually the rest of the world seeps in Jay has to face the reality of his friends and family learning the truth about his sexuality and it rough going at times.
The story concludes with an inspiring epilogue that left me on a high. As a write this review and think back on the story I can't stop smiling. I had a great time following Jay and Brighton through their weekend. This is a terrific story.
Age recommendation: 15+ due to descriptive sex scenes
Jay is a jock and pretty much most popular guy in school. He wakes up on Friday morning and has an epiphany. He is not happy with his life and he wants to make changes. He realises his highlight of his week is the class he shares with Brighton, the school's only openly gay student.
The story follows Jay through and most amazing and transformative weekend of life. In class on Friday, Jay gets Brighton's number after a flirty, innuendo filled conversation about pens. On Saturday, a nervous Jay meets Brighton in a local park and he spends a fun filled day with Brighton exploring Brighton's world and their town.
With Brighton's help, Jay bravely take steps to come to terms with his sexuality and to change his life for the better. Jay is smitten with Brighton and it is easy to see why. Brighton is adventurous, full of life, creative, entrepreneurial and list goes on. I loved their conversations and their honesty with each other.
While the guys are together in their own little bubble everything is great, but eventually the rest of the world seeps in Jay has to face the reality of his friends and family learning the truth about his sexuality and it rough going at times.
The story concludes with an inspiring epilogue that left me on a high. As a write this review and think back on the story I can't stop smiling. I had a great time following Jay and Brighton through their weekend. This is a terrific story.
Age recommendation: 15+ due to descriptive sex scenes
Want to read
September 1, 20189/1/18 Currently on sale for $1.99 via Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073BHXSCB/...
April 5, 2021
3,5 stars. This started really cute, the chemistry between the MCs was great and the story had a nice build up. Then at around half of the book it became forced, the dialogues were completely unrealistic and the overall tone sounded like from equality leaflet. The whole unaccepting mother drama was unnecessary and the story lost its appeal by the end. Shame, as it had great potential and I was hoping for an emotional and gripping story.
December 26, 2020
Seventeen year old Jay Hall has an epiphany. He decides to give up his life as the stereotypical dumb jock and join Brighton, the only out gay kid in their small town, on the most disappointing road trip in smutty YA history and they start a horrible romance, if you can call it that. When I hear "road trip" I, and many others, expect a long cross-country car drive with stops in cheap motels and crazy adventures. See, THAT would make a good book. What we got however, was a two day long tour of their city with underwhelming adventures such as a lake trip and sculpture garden and nights at Brighton's parents place.
The utterly disappointing foundation of this fan fiction-like-novel (seriously, is this Draco+Harry written by a fourteen year-old girl, or what?) wasn't my only source of disappointment, or even my biggest one. As I mentioned, this book is written like a fan fiction, with robotic, unemotional dialogue, fetishism of gay men, an immature writing style, plenty of unnecessary sex, and characters described like they should be underwear models. If someone hadn't told me otherwise, I would think this was pulled straight off of watt pad, just oozing from the seams with soft core porn and indistinguishable POVS.
My biggest frustration with this dumpster fire however, is the constant hyper sexuality of teenage boys. These are two seventeen year-old's gay guys written by a straight, adult, woman. Jay and Brighton's relationship consisted of nothing but sex with a scary lack of consent and the occasional verging on violent scene, like Jay's whole coming-out where he basically pins Brighton to the ground and yells at him. How romantic.
Also, Jay's full on coming out just confirms that this book was written by a cishet woman. As a queer woman, this made me laugh and cry at the misrepresentation all at the same time. Jay's dad is nice about it, but his mom is furious because her dad was gay and it caused her trauma? What? Not to mention, this was only brought up around forty pages until the end of the book. And Jay's mom just forgets about it at the end of the book. All this drama, something that could've caused an ounce of character development, just erased in seconds for a cliche happy ending.
And the cherry on top of this sundae of disappointment is my fiery hatred for both Jay and Brighton. Brighton's cocky and one dimensional, containing a tad of femme and bi phobia, and Jay's the exact same. They're literally the same person with different hair colors. At least Brighton's family and the girl who Jay cheated on are legends, or else I would be crying even harder than I am now. (I need to call my therapist)
My takeaway from this book? Only read own voices books from now on, and tell Haven Francis to add the word "cock", "damn" and "totally" way, way less in her writing. This book might've been a dumpster fire, but at least I enjoyed writing the review.
Love a very confused queer woman.
The utterly disappointing foundation of this fan fiction-like-novel (seriously, is this Draco+Harry written by a fourteen year-old girl, or what?) wasn't my only source of disappointment, or even my biggest one. As I mentioned, this book is written like a fan fiction, with robotic, unemotional dialogue, fetishism of gay men, an immature writing style, plenty of unnecessary sex, and characters described like they should be underwear models. If someone hadn't told me otherwise, I would think this was pulled straight off of watt pad, just oozing from the seams with soft core porn and indistinguishable POVS.
My biggest frustration with this dumpster fire however, is the constant hyper sexuality of teenage boys. These are two seventeen year-old's gay guys written by a straight, adult, woman. Jay and Brighton's relationship consisted of nothing but sex with a scary lack of consent and the occasional verging on violent scene, like Jay's whole coming-out where he basically pins Brighton to the ground and yells at him. How romantic.
Also, Jay's full on coming out just confirms that this book was written by a cishet woman. As a queer woman, this made me laugh and cry at the misrepresentation all at the same time. Jay's dad is nice about it, but his mom is furious because her dad was gay and it caused her trauma? What? Not to mention, this was only brought up around forty pages until the end of the book. And Jay's mom just forgets about it at the end of the book. All this drama, something that could've caused an ounce of character development, just erased in seconds for a cliche happy ending.
And the cherry on top of this sundae of disappointment is my fiery hatred for both Jay and Brighton. Brighton's cocky and one dimensional, containing a tad of femme and bi phobia, and Jay's the exact same. They're literally the same person with different hair colors. At least Brighton's family and the girl who Jay cheated on are legends, or else I would be crying even harder than I am now. (I need to call my therapist)
My takeaway from this book? Only read own voices books from now on, and tell Haven Francis to add the word "cock", "damn" and "totally" way, way less in her writing. This book might've been a dumpster fire, but at least I enjoyed writing the review.
Love a very confused queer woman.
June 25, 2017
Worth way more than five stars.
"Someone who I totally understand yet manages to surprise me every single day. Someone who opens my eyes and makes me think. Someone who can make me feel excited and inspired every day of my life simply by saying words.... And then today happened."
WOW! Normal cognitive function has officially left me and that's all I got - wow! Have you ever read a book and before you even get to the end of the first paragraph, you already know that you're going to love it. There's something about the writing style that draws you in, makes you love the characters and gives them dimension. As I was reading, I wished I could read faster so that I could discover how this whole thing plays out and now that I'm finished, I wish it hadn't ended and I just want to start reading it all over again - it's just that good.
The action centres around Jay, the all-American, straight boy who is fascinated by his classmate Brighton. Working together, Jay knows that he loves being around Brighton but he doesn't understand why so when he wakes up and has an epiphany one morning, the two spend an epic day together which ends up with Jay coming to terms with his own feelings and making the decision to grab life with both hands and truly be happy for the first time in his life. I wasn't convinced that all that much could be squeezed into one day but boy was I wrong. It's a total rollercoaster ride of emotions that I got caught up in with them. I grinned, laughed, got upset and even almost shed a tear with them. I'm not going to give you a run down of that epic day but I will tell you that it felt very real, that their chemistry is off the charts, that you'll wish you had friends like they have, you'll envy their relationship, that you won't be able to put this book down and that this is one of those stories that will stay with you long after you finish reading.
This is the first book I have read by HF but it absolutely will not be the last. It's so much more than just a story. You seriously have to go grab a copy. You won't regret it.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cheryl from Alpha Book Club
Alpha Book Club
All Alpha Males Accepted
alphabookclub.org
"Someone who I totally understand yet manages to surprise me every single day. Someone who opens my eyes and makes me think. Someone who can make me feel excited and inspired every day of my life simply by saying words.... And then today happened."
WOW! Normal cognitive function has officially left me and that's all I got - wow! Have you ever read a book and before you even get to the end of the first paragraph, you already know that you're going to love it. There's something about the writing style that draws you in, makes you love the characters and gives them dimension. As I was reading, I wished I could read faster so that I could discover how this whole thing plays out and now that I'm finished, I wish it hadn't ended and I just want to start reading it all over again - it's just that good.
The action centres around Jay, the all-American, straight boy who is fascinated by his classmate Brighton. Working together, Jay knows that he loves being around Brighton but he doesn't understand why so when he wakes up and has an epiphany one morning, the two spend an epic day together which ends up with Jay coming to terms with his own feelings and making the decision to grab life with both hands and truly be happy for the first time in his life. I wasn't convinced that all that much could be squeezed into one day but boy was I wrong. It's a total rollercoaster ride of emotions that I got caught up in with them. I grinned, laughed, got upset and even almost shed a tear with them. I'm not going to give you a run down of that epic day but I will tell you that it felt very real, that their chemistry is off the charts, that you'll wish you had friends like they have, you'll envy their relationship, that you won't be able to put this book down and that this is one of those stories that will stay with you long after you finish reading.
This is the first book I have read by HF but it absolutely will not be the last. It's so much more than just a story. You seriously have to go grab a copy. You won't regret it.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cheryl from Alpha Book Club
Alpha Book Club
All Alpha Males Accepted
alphabookclub.org
February 5, 2018
4.5/5
This book was a ray of sunshine.
I've never read a book that made me smile so much. I swear, I was smiling at every single page, my cheeks were hurting. I really enjoyed every moment spent reading.
Jay Hall is a popular jock on his senior year of high school. But he's sick of his life of partying and he's sick of his friends, who are all copies of him. He just wants to learn a thing or two from Brighton Bello-Adler, who is the only openly gay boy at school, the one everyone loves. Jay and Brighten spend an entire day together, and things change--for the better, and for both of them.
This definitely was reminiscent of Ferris Bueller's Day Off in more ways than one, but it was also something entirely different and unique.
There was something incredibly sweet about Brighton. I loved him from the start. He was a charming boy, full of confidence and an abundance of love to give. It was easy to see why he was so popular everywhere he went. I found myself wanting to be his friend as much as Jay did. And Jay, my beautiful boy. I related to Jay on so many levels. Over the course of the book, he had so many breakdowns and realizations, most of them surrounding his sexuality. The majority of the book centers around him coming out. And yes, I've read my share of coming-out books, but this one was nearly perfect. And the romance was on point.
I appreciated all of the lovely moments spread throughout. I loved the message of acceptance. I loved the communication between the main characters every time they hit a bump. I loved so much about this book. It never felt dry, and it never felt too much. It was just right.
I want to recommend this to everyone. If you're struggling with coming out, or if you just want to read a sweet story to warm your heart, give this a try.
"It sucks to look in the mirror and realize you don't even know the person staring back at you. That all the years you should have spent figuring out who you are were spent creating a person who's not even real, and you hate the kid in the mirror, and you hate the kid inside of you too."
This book was a ray of sunshine.
I've never read a book that made me smile so much. I swear, I was smiling at every single page, my cheeks were hurting. I really enjoyed every moment spent reading.
Jay Hall is a popular jock on his senior year of high school. But he's sick of his life of partying and he's sick of his friends, who are all copies of him. He just wants to learn a thing or two from Brighton Bello-Adler, who is the only openly gay boy at school, the one everyone loves. Jay and Brighten spend an entire day together, and things change--for the better, and for both of them.
This definitely was reminiscent of Ferris Bueller's Day Off in more ways than one, but it was also something entirely different and unique.
There was something incredibly sweet about Brighton. I loved him from the start. He was a charming boy, full of confidence and an abundance of love to give. It was easy to see why he was so popular everywhere he went. I found myself wanting to be his friend as much as Jay did. And Jay, my beautiful boy. I related to Jay on so many levels. Over the course of the book, he had so many breakdowns and realizations, most of them surrounding his sexuality. The majority of the book centers around him coming out. And yes, I've read my share of coming-out books, but this one was nearly perfect. And the romance was on point.
"But anyway--the lesson. Are you ready? Here it goes...Go live your life."
I appreciated all of the lovely moments spread throughout. I loved the message of acceptance. I loved the communication between the main characters every time they hit a bump. I loved so much about this book. It never felt dry, and it never felt too much. It was just right.
I want to recommend this to everyone. If you're struggling with coming out, or if you just want to read a sweet story to warm your heart, give this a try.
July 15, 2018
3 stars
When I was reading this, I was under the impression that this would be a road-trip-esque type of deal, which it wasn't. It was a simple, coming -out story.
I believe that it is meant to be new adult, but it had more of a YA feeling overall. There were a few moments that were slightly more sexual, but the majority of the more sexy moments where groping and kissing - and rightfully so, the guys are only 18 , still in high school, and one just came out that very day [ also the first day that they hung out].
Nothing bad about it, but I just didn't think it was necessary that Jay and Brighton had to say that they already love each other after one day together, which was extremely tumultuous for Jay anyway. That was the most inauthentic part of their beginning relationship.
I also appreciated Francis writing in that Jay's mother didn't immediately love her son. That is something that a lot of young gay people have to deal with and not everyone has the most amazing parents. It was nice to have Jay learn that his mother's own shortcomings were through no fault of his own character.
Final notes:
- Told in alternating first person POV
- Homophobic/sexist family and friends
- Insta-love
- Minor explicit scenes [lowkey]
- Super supportive parental figures
When I was reading this, I was under the impression that this would be a road-trip-esque type of deal, which it wasn't. It was a simple, coming -out story.
I believe that it is meant to be new adult, but it had more of a YA feeling overall. There were a few moments that were slightly more sexual, but the majority of the more sexy moments where groping and kissing - and rightfully so, the guys are only 18 , still in high school, and one just came out that very day [ also the first day that they hung out].
Nothing bad about it, but I just didn't think it was necessary that Jay and Brighton had to say that they already love each other after one day together, which was extremely tumultuous for Jay anyway. That was the most inauthentic part of their beginning relationship.
I also appreciated Francis writing in that Jay's mother didn't immediately love her son. That is something that a lot of young gay people have to deal with and not everyone has the most amazing parents. It was nice to have Jay learn that his mother's own shortcomings were through no fault of his own character.
Final notes:
- Told in alternating first person POV
- Homophobic/sexist family and friends
- Insta-love
- Minor explicit scenes [lowkey]
- Super supportive parental figures
February 10, 2019
I went into this book expecting a lot. I saw the four point rating on here and was really excited to read this, but I was largely disappointed for some very major reasons. This book was so clearly written by a straight woman and it was painful.
First, everything felt very rushed. I understand that the whole point is that Jay's whole life changes in the span of a couple of days, but it felt ridiculous and incredibly unrealistic. As someone who is queer, for me personally I could never come out to an entire school and be proud of it and wave my flag around in the span of one day. Maybe some people can do that, but I think in Jay's situation it was a far stretch. The boy had been used to his friends and had built up his life for so many years and he was comfortable with changing everything in one day? Hard to believe.
Secondly, the dialogue was so awkward in this book. I was cringing at multiple parts because the dialogue is so unrealistic. I'm not sure if the author read her dialogue out loud because no one talks like that ever. People don't just burst into corny heart felt deep conversations with people who are near strangers, and certainly not as frequently as it happened in this book.
The other thing that I didn't like was Jay's mother's completely over exaggerated reaction. The author wrote it so that the mother had a bad experience with her father being gay, but honestly if she was raised in a loving good environment then she should have somewhat been able to try to accept the fact that her father is gay. She's completely delusional, and I hate that everyone in the book understands where she's coming from. It's not entirely the fault of her being traumatized, it's that she's homophobic.
I did however like the characters and the fast moving plot. The characters were very charming and their dynamic was good, save for the cringey emotional outbursts, and the plot moved at a pace that was enjoyable and satisfying. It wasn't one of those contemporary novels that waits until the very end for the characters to get together.
First, everything felt very rushed. I understand that the whole point is that Jay's whole life changes in the span of a couple of days, but it felt ridiculous and incredibly unrealistic. As someone who is queer, for me personally I could never come out to an entire school and be proud of it and wave my flag around in the span of one day. Maybe some people can do that, but I think in Jay's situation it was a far stretch. The boy had been used to his friends and had built up his life for so many years and he was comfortable with changing everything in one day? Hard to believe.
Secondly, the dialogue was so awkward in this book. I was cringing at multiple parts because the dialogue is so unrealistic. I'm not sure if the author read her dialogue out loud because no one talks like that ever. People don't just burst into corny heart felt deep conversations with people who are near strangers, and certainly not as frequently as it happened in this book.
The other thing that I didn't like was Jay's mother's completely over exaggerated reaction. The author wrote it so that the mother had a bad experience with her father being gay, but honestly if she was raised in a loving good environment then she should have somewhat been able to try to accept the fact that her father is gay. She's completely delusional, and I hate that everyone in the book understands where she's coming from. It's not entirely the fault of her being traumatized, it's that she's homophobic.
I did however like the characters and the fast moving plot. The characters were very charming and their dynamic was good, save for the cringey emotional outbursts, and the plot moved at a pace that was enjoyable and satisfying. It wasn't one of those contemporary novels that waits until the very end for the characters to get together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2017
Speechless! Absolutely wonderfully written, emotional, funny. You sometimes wonder if kids 18 years old can connect and love each other. Comments are often made "it's puppy love" or "you're too young to be in real love." That's not true. I recently read The Locker Room and the connection between Chris and Xander made me a believer. Brighton and Jay know each other from history class. Jay is a popular high school jock and has realized that he's been living a lie all his life and decides to do something about it. I can't imagine being 18 years old and realizing that my whole life has been fabricated. Jay is beyond brave. I like the author's spin on Jay and his feelings about being gay and his feelings for Brighton. Takes a lot of those conversations about GFY and OFY and puts them in perspective. But after a few paragraphs, you recognize that Jay and Brighton belong together. I stopped reading ya and new adult. Too much angst and drama. But the blurb for this book intrigued me and when I started reading it, I was hooked. Even more surprised to find that I think this is the author's first MM. There is definitely a John Hughes vibe to this and at one point, I thought everything would be hunky dory, everyone would be accepting, and we'd end in one rainbow colored happy bubble. But everything is not ok and it's handled well. Like with most ya, this is an HFN and would love to revisit Jay and Brighton in a few years. Love the writing so much that I am tempted to read the author's M/F books, but let's not go crazy - lol!!
July 31, 2020
The premise of the story is actually promising, that’s why I was curious enough to give the book a shot and read it. Oh boy was I disappointed, but I still forced myself to read it to the very end.
For a YA book, it felt unnecessarily smutty. I don’t know if I’m imagining it but it seemed like half of the book was just about Jay and Brighton having steamy make out sessions? Not only that, there seemed to be a lot of descriptions dedicated to how physically hot they were. I lost count of how many times I saw the word “sexy” appear in the story, but it was frequent enough for me to start cringing.
There was just a bit too much focus on their physical chemistry and appearance. Because of that, the story didn’t exactly come off as queer and even YA for me. It seemed more like something written for straight women to fan over, especially since the 2 protagonists were so extensively described to be really hot.
Not only that, it’s hard for me to buy the fact that they basically fell for each other in just a span of a day. I couldn’t help but raise my eyebrows, especially with the fact Jay came out and broke up with his girlfriend on the same day. If I’m not wrong, by the time the story ended, it had only been a weekend when they finally decided to become a couple. The pacing felt really off and unrealistic.
One thing I liked about the book though was that it depicted Jay in an introspective light as he made his way through the process of coming out, especially since he was characterised as a popular jock. That’s the only thing stopping me from giving a lower star rating for it.
For a YA book, it felt unnecessarily smutty. I don’t know if I’m imagining it but it seemed like half of the book was just about Jay and Brighton having steamy make out sessions? Not only that, there seemed to be a lot of descriptions dedicated to how physically hot they were. I lost count of how many times I saw the word “sexy” appear in the story, but it was frequent enough for me to start cringing.
There was just a bit too much focus on their physical chemistry and appearance. Because of that, the story didn’t exactly come off as queer and even YA for me. It seemed more like something written for straight women to fan over, especially since the 2 protagonists were so extensively described to be really hot.
Not only that, it’s hard for me to buy the fact that they basically fell for each other in just a span of a day. I couldn’t help but raise my eyebrows, especially with the fact Jay came out and broke up with his girlfriend on the same day. If I’m not wrong, by the time the story ended, it had only been a weekend when they finally decided to become a couple. The pacing felt really off and unrealistic.
One thing I liked about the book though was that it depicted Jay in an introspective light as he made his way through the process of coming out, especially since he was characterised as a popular jock. That’s the only thing stopping me from giving a lower star rating for it.
July 12, 2017
Riding with Brighton was an absolute pleasure to read and I wanted to savior this story as long as possible but it was so great that I finished it in one go. I just couldn't put it down.
Jay is an eighteen senior in high school who wakes up on a Friday morning with an epiphany. He's going to change the course of his path and live the life that he wants to live not the one he thinks he should.
He starts off by deciding to become friends with Brighton. His classmate. The only openly gay kid in town Brighton is one of those people who Jay admires because he lives life to the fullest. He's the cool kid. With only interaction during class Jay proposes that the two hang out. Brighton agrees thinking Jay is having a "I think I'm gay" moment.
Over the course of a day the two embark on a roller-coaster ride of emotions learning to except and come to terms with who you truly are and the sheer happiness of getting to know one another.
Honestly this story takes place a few days but it feels like so much more. There's so much meat to this story that you forget how short the time is. The entire story plays out wonderfully and has the feel of the 80s teen movies.
There's also a bit of drama and a few great supporting characters.
This isn't your typical YA popular jock and gay kid love story. It's so much more and I'm really happy that I got to experience this little gem. These characters and this story will stay with me for awhile.
Jay is an eighteen senior in high school who wakes up on a Friday morning with an epiphany. He's going to change the course of his path and live the life that he wants to live not the one he thinks he should.
He starts off by deciding to become friends with Brighton. His classmate. The only openly gay kid in town Brighton is one of those people who Jay admires because he lives life to the fullest. He's the cool kid. With only interaction during class Jay proposes that the two hang out. Brighton agrees thinking Jay is having a "I think I'm gay" moment.
Over the course of a day the two embark on a roller-coaster ride of emotions learning to except and come to terms with who you truly are and the sheer happiness of getting to know one another.
Honestly this story takes place a few days but it feels like so much more. There's so much meat to this story that you forget how short the time is. The entire story plays out wonderfully and has the feel of the 80s teen movies.
There's also a bit of drama and a few great supporting characters.
This isn't your typical YA popular jock and gay kid love story. It's so much more and I'm really happy that I got to experience this little gem. These characters and this story will stay with me for awhile.
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