Made in Lisbon

Second Chances #3

by Ana Newfolk

Can you get more than one true love in a lifetime?

Three years after his husband’s death, Vitor is still grieving. Too young to be alone and too old to start again, he feels stuck. Accepting a new job in Lisbon is just what he needs, but it also means going back to the city that sealed his fate nearly thirty years ago.

Between looking for his missing brother and running an LGBTQ Youth Center, Tiago doesn’t have time for dating or commitment. When his best friend asks him to find a family member that ran away years ago, Tiago welcomes the distraction.

A past full of secrets.

An anonymous kiss that turns their world upside down.

When past and present clash, will the two men put everything aside and give themselves a chance at happiness? Or are the things keeping them apart stronger than the feelings keeping them together?

Made In Lisbon is May-December MM romance with hurt/comfort themes, lots of steam and a HEA.

Made In Lisbon can be read as a standalone but will be better enjoyed as part of the Made In Series as characters and stories from previous books appear in this story.

Series reading order:

Made In New York - Book 1 (Max and Isaac)
Made In Portugal - Book 2 (Joel and David)
Made In Paris - Book 3 (Dorian and Jean-Paul)
Made In Manhattan - Book 4 (Max and Isaac)
Made In Lisbon - Book 5 (Vítor and Tiago)
Made In Love - Coming Autumn 2019

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary, Queer, Gay, LGBT, Grief

227 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 6, 2019

About the author

Ana Newfolk was born in Portugal but has lived in the United Kingdom for so long, even her friends sometimes doubt if she really is Portuguese.

After getting hooked on reading gay romance, Ana decided to follow her lifelong dream of becoming an author.

These days you can find her in front of her laptop bringing her stories to life, or in the kitchen perfecting her recipe for the famous Portuguese custard

Reviews

[True Loveislovereview · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vítor and Tiago

What a delightful read this was. It’s about second chances, May to December romance, a lot of friendly people and a lot of secrets and drama.
It was almost too much drama, the story was just too beautiful to let that feeling in.

Vítor lost his husband three years ago and he tells his son he’s going to Lisbon to work there for a while. He’s stuck in Porto with all his grief. He goes back to the bar in Lisbon where he met his husband. There he meets Tiago, a gorgeous guy who seems to be a lot younger than himself. But so easy to talk to. After a hot encounter in the bathroom, Vítor runs away. They don’t even know each other’s names!

This is just a tiny fraction of the whole journey. Both men have their own past. Tiago’s life is one with hurt and lost and try to find what he lost. Vítor’s life has similarities. Bit by bit we get to know what happened and still is going on in their lives.
We can see the men grow to each other, both very passionate and with all the passion there is so much love. But the further the story goes the more we understand their lives with past and present has a connection. A big one!
It’s unavoidable, so when it collides it’s in a devastating way, it seems there is no future for them.

Thank goodness for human’s quality for reasonableness and to follow their hearts.
There are a lot of secrets with deep hurt, it’s hard to watch. But on the other hand, we get to see people reunite and what I loved to most of this read, we are a witness of how love overcomes everything when you open your heart.

I was in this story from the first line. I slept badly because I couldn’t wait to read further.
All the characters, main or secondary were just wonderful. The way of writing was engaging and very enjoyable. This story had gravity, joy, hurt, hot sexiness and all the diverse feelings and events were written in an excellent captivating, entertaining way.

I want to recommend this one!

[Manfred · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is somehow difficult to rate for me.
First of all, I read this as a standalone and I really would not recommend that to anyone. There are so many names, places, and references that it was almost impossible to know what was going on and who was who.
The amount of people and families involved is huge and reading from the start would make a lot of sense!
Then there is the story itself.
On the one hand, I really liked the writing and I definitely loved the main characters.
It is an age gap, hurt/comfort story, with lots of family, complications, searching for missing persons and finding missing persons that no one actually searched for, all thrown together.
So there really wasn't a dull moment reading this.
On the other hand, that was also the problem of the story for me.
My mother watches a soap opera every day and if I get a glimpse now and then, I am astonished how many things can happen to a few families in a short amount of time. You know, like first she was in a car accident, then in the hospital they find out she is pregnant, then it turns out her husband is not the father of the child, then the one night stand she could never forget surprisingly turns up again as a firefighter because her house is burning down, while she is on the telephone getting shocking news from her parents... etc. You probably understand the concept.
I am always asking myself, what will happen in the next week to top that?
(but I am definitely not curious enough to watch the next week).
So this is what happens in this book as well, the revelations and surprises keep coming and honestly at some point I just wished it would stop.
Yes it made for a fast paced read, but it also was really ridiculous, I can accept a few coincidences, but this was definitely too much.
What definitely was a plus though was the setting, very different, with two of my favorite cities Porto and Lisbon and also Pasteis de nata or custard tartes making me dream.
So overall I enjoyed the story and with a little less coincidences it would even have earned the 4th star.

[Fernanda Parente · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this May/December book and relationship between Victor and Tiago and the way the author shows my hometown, Lisbon.

I was given and arc in exchange to an honest review

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Possible triggers: rape, abuse, kidnappings, children sold
When I met Tiago in the other books, I knew there was something about him. It was like his soul was crying out for something. When I found out why, my heart broke for him. So I was really hoping he got some kind of a happy ending. Even if it wasn't with a partner, then at least with his brother.
Tiago has been looking for his brother for years. After what their stepfather did to Tiago, he was ready to escape. He had no idea the man had started on Afonso. So Afonso ran when he tried to tell and want believed. And Tiago has been looking for him ever since. And now, David and his family want them to find their missing family member, Vítor. When everything gets too much for Tiago running the shelter and everything else, he goes to a bar to get his drink on. What he doesn't expect is the man that comes in. A silver Fox with the bluest eyes he's ever seen. At one point, Tiago has to go to the bathroom to cool off and Vítor follows him and gives him a kiss that sucks out his soul. And then runs. Tiago doesn't even know his name at that time. Then again later, they meet again at an apartment mix up. But they begin to come friends. And roommates. Little by little they get to know each other and their pasts, but there's a secret Tiago is keeping from Vítor and when Vítor finds out, he's furious. He doesn't know what to do. It takes David talking to him to make him see the light and to reveal another secret. Now it's up to Vítor to make things right or continue to live in the past.
These two have been through hell. Oh. My. Gah. My heart breaks for both of them. And neither had anyone to turn to. Vítor thought he had his brother, but his father was blocking that route. And Tiago just ran. They both ran really. And into the lives they are in now. Tiago's life may not be easy running the center, but he feels like he's helping and that helps him. Vítor is still grieving but even just having Tiago as a friend has helped him to start moving forward instead of staying stagnant. And after all they've been through, that's a huge deal. Because I wouldn't trust a soul. But they are good for each other. They settle the other. They can be free with each other and finally let go of the burdens they've been carrying for so long.
The stories in this series have been some rough ones, but they've been good. The growth in each person, the way they are moving forward. It's been interesting to watch. I've really enjoyed reading it.


http://lovebytesreviews.com/

[K.R. Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.5 stars
🔥🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 4

Wow! An emotional rollercoaster to finding family and a second great love!!

This was a powerful hurt/comfort story! It made me laugh and cry, surprised me and pulled on my heartstrings. Ana paints the picture of a beautiful ‘mismatched’ found family, full of love, care, and kindness. Getting a look inside the different parts of this family was a journey through healing, grief, forgiveness, and growth. I loved getting to know both Vitor and Tiago. This was my first story by Ana and now I need to go back and spend more time with these awesome characters and this unique family.

I loved Vitor’s caring and compassionate nature. While still grieving his husband I felt all the emotions and heartbreak. His shining light became Tiago. Tiago is so strong and passionate. With all that he’s been through and his never-ending fight to find his younger brother. I enjoyed the parallels between these to characters and their connection was undeniable. I felt their chemistry from the start and felt every heartbreak and every healing moment. This book is the epitome of the hurt/comfort subgenre and is so powerful, I just loved it!!

I loved the family and its characters. I was surprised and grateful that all the characters were brought together at just the right time. I am interested to see where Ana will take the final book. I loved the happy ending of this book and I hope the next book features all these amazing characters and I hope we get to see more HEAs and more healing and family love! Great writing and fantastic story!!!

Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚

[Amy Dufera - Amy's MM Romance Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Made In Lisbon's a wonderful story of second chances. Simply put, it's an amazing read.

Vitor gets a second chance at love after the death of his ex and an estrangement with his son. His relationship with Tiago is a fun May to December romance. After a hook-up, the way they meet again is entertaining, with a natural friendship developing quickly.

Vitor's still reeling from the grief and pain of losing his ex husband, as well as the secrets he discovered. This aspect of the story drew me in immediately and held onto my heart throughout. One of my favorite things about this story is the way Vitor naturally falls for Tiago, despite never wanting a new lover.

Their story is one of giving into love and taking a chance. It's a tale of long lost family, exploring the power of family, both the good and the bad. There are complications between brothers, and between father and son.

Full of twists and turns, there are moments you really need to focus to get the full impact of what's happening.

The writing is beautiful. From her first novel, I have been in love with Anna Newfolk's writing style. The writing is strong, the pace is perfect, and the storylines are fantastic and full of emotion.

I absolutely love Made In Lisbon and couldn't put it down. Like the rest of this series, Ana Newfolk manages to create an memorable and inspiring tale. This is a fantastic age gap romance with just the right amount of angst. It's a superb story of love and romance following pain and hurt from secrets and loss. I highly recommend it and will definitely be re-reading it.

[Anabela.M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two lonely souls meet but neither of them is really ready to open their hearts to love. Because Vitor is still feeling his late husband's absence like a hole in his heart,even three years after Dri's death. He's instantly attracted to Tiago but he's also convinced that he can't have more than one great love in his lifetime. And Tiago...his priority is finding his lost brother and he's not sure he can give enough of himself to a possible boyfriend, not until Afonso is safely back.

Made In Lisbon is wonderfully emotional
because of the way Tiago and Vitor slowly realize how much happier they are having one another in their lives. As usual, Ana Newfolk's characters are beautiful, kindhearted, devoted and caring, and it was the easiest thing for me to be invested in their story.

There's so much hope in this book,so much warmth, love and affection. I loved all the happy surprises the author gifted to her deserving characters and most of all,I loved how much stronger the family bond between all of them has become in this installment of the Made In series.

Now I can't wait to read the next book and I really hope that it will be Afonso's turn to have his happy ending.

[Karolina Cebula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three years have passed, since Vítor's husband lost his battle against cancer, but during all this time the man has remained faithful to his beloved, as he doesn't believe that he could love anyone else. It turns out, however, that his heart doesn't share this opinion, because unexpectedly it starts to beat faster for a very attractive young man.
Tiago runs an LGBTQ Youth Center by himself, and at the same time, his life revolves around finding his brother who escaped from home eight years ago. However, the routine of his everyday life changes when he meets a handsome, older man who, like Cinderella, arouses Tiago's interest, and then escapes from the "ball". Nevertheless, this is enough for fate to weave Vítor's and Tiago's paths together into a tight knot impossible to untie.

"Made in Lisbon" is the fifth installment of the "Made In" series, consisting of short novellas and longer novels connected with one another by a group of protagonists around whom the stories presented in the series revolve. To tell the truth, I have the impression that this part differs to a large extent from the previous ones, as it seems to be much heavier due to the topics it raises. We can find here some really sweet scenes, but the novel contains a large dose of drama, which definitely dominates over everything else. However, it should be noted that, despite all this, the novel doesn't make the readers depressed, but it rather shows them a glimmer of hope that they can see in each of the problems discussed in the book. And "Made in Lisbon" is focused exactly on this mentioned hope. The author seems to put the greatest emphasis not on dramatic events in the characters' lives, which don't have any positive consequences, but on ending them and on the brighter side of life.

One of the above-mentioned, very serious topics that appear in "Made in Lisbon" are family problems related to its dysfunction. In fact, the novel revolves around them because, due to their diversity, they form the foundation of all the other problems the characters need to face. The author presents them in a very moving and graphic way, in terms of feelings and emotions that followed the dramatic events in Vítor's and Tiago's life during their youth, and which they still feel. However, I think that in this respect the most important thing is looking for a way to change the situation, clarifying misunderstandings and rebuilding broken family ties. Not without significance is the fact that the people responsible for the drama in the characters' life are no longer alive, which allows Vítor and Tiago to focus on healing their wounds without looking into the eyes of the corporeal demons of the past.

In "Made in Lisbon" I really love the fact that the author uses the motif of a new life after partner's death, and thus a new beginning. I think that Ana Newfolk really shows in a perfect way the complex feelings that a person who "remains" and has a chance to start living again, fall in love again feels. What fascinated me the most in the way this motif was presented is the fact that Vítor puts himself in his dead husband's shoes, and thanks to it he admits that he feels jealous when he thinks that after his death his beloved could find someone else, but at the same time he would like him to be happy. To tell you the truth, I was relieved, because Vítor's thoughts fully reflect mine, and some time ago I was afraid that they made me an extremely selfish person. Yet, I admit that this is the first time that I've seen such an approach to this topic in literature.

Another huge subject raised in "Made in Lisbon" is child sexual abuse. Undoubtedly, this is a very difficult, extremely serious and painful problem, however, for children's well-being, it should not be considered as taboo. Without a doubt, the great advantage of the way Ana Newfolk addresses this problem is the gentleness and subtlety with which it was presented in the novel. The author doesn't make a show out of it. Instead, to a certain extent, she focuses on how sexual abuse can be perceived by children and how the perception of this sick behavior changes as the child grows up. To me it is also important that the author doesn't show to much details that would deter us, but limits it to a minimum necessary to give the novel more depth, as well as the characters' experiences, and simply to present the problem.

To sum up, "Made in Lisbon" is a serious and deep novel in which the characters are struggling with real problems. However, the most important subject here seems to be hope, which ray we see among the shadows cast by the demons of the past. This is undoubtedly a book worth recommending.

____________________________________

Od kiedy mąż Vítora przegrał walkę z rakiem minęły trzy lata, jednak przez cały ten czas mężczyzna pozostawał wierny ukochanemu, nie wierząc, że jest w stanie pokochać kogoś innego. Okazuje się jednak, że jego serce nie podziela tego zdania, ponieważ niespodziewanie zaczyna szybciej bić dla pewnego bardzo atrakcyjnego młodzieńca.
Tiago samodzielnie prowadzi Centrum dla młodzieży LGBTQ. Jednocześnie jego życie skupia się na odnalezieniu brata, który przed ośmioma laty uciekł z domu. Jego rutynę dnia codziennego przerywa jednak spotkanie z przystojnym, starszym mężczyzną, który niczym Kopciuszek, rozbudza w Tiago zainteresowanie, po czym ucieka z „balu”. To jednak w zupełności wystarcza, aby los splótł ze sobą ścieżki Vítora and Tiago w ciasny, nierozerwalny supeł.

„Made in Lisbon” jest piątą odsłoną serii „Made In”, na którą składają się krótkie nowelki oraz dłuższe nowele, połączone ze sobą grupką bohaterów, wokół których rozgrywają się przedstawione w serii historie. Prawdę mówiąc, mam wrażenie, że ta część różni się w dużym stopniu od poprzednich, ponieważ wydaje mi się zdecydowanie cięższa, z racji poruszonych w niej tematów. Znajdziemy tu momenty naprawdę słodkie, jednak powieść zawiera dużą dawkę dramatu, który zdecydowanie dominuje. Należy jednak zauważyć, że mimo wszystko powieść nie dołuje czytelnika, a raczej niesie ze sobą światełko nadziei, którą dostrzegamy w każdym z poruszonych tu problemów. I to właśnie na tej wspomnianej nadziei skupia się „Made in Lisbon”. Autorka wydaje się bowiem kłaść największy nacisk nie na dramatyczne wydarzenia w życiu bohaterów, które nie niosą ze sobą żadnych pozytywnych następstw, ale na ich zakończenie oraz na tę jaśniejszą stronę życia.

Jednym ze wspomnianych powyżej, bardzo poważnych tematów, jakie pojawiają się w „Made in Lisbon” są problemy rodzinne związane z jej dysfunkcją. Tak naprawdę to właśnie wokół nich obraca się powieść, ponieważ z racji swojej różnorodności, stanowią one podstawę wszystkich innych, z jakimi borykają się bohaterowie. Autorka przedstawia je w sposób bardzo poruszający oraz obrazowy pod względem uczuć i emocji, jakie towarzyszyły dramatycznym wydarzeniom z życia Vítora oraz Tiago w czasach ich młodości, jak również jakie wciąż im towarzyszą. Myślę jednak, że w tym temacie ogromne znaczenie ma fakt dążenia do naprawy sytuacji, wyjaśnienia nieporozumień i odbudowy zerwanych więzi rodzinnych. Nie bez znaczenia pozostaje także fakt, iż osoby odpowiedzialne za dramat bohaterów już nie żyją, co pozwala aby Vítor i Tiago skupili się na leczeniu ran, bez potrzeby patrzenia w oczy materialnym demonom przeszłości.

W „Made in Lisbon” bardzo podoba mi się to, iż autorka wykorzystuje motyw drugiego życia po śmierci partnera, a tym samym nowego początku. Uważam, że Ana Newfolk w sposób naprawdę perfekcyjny oddaje skomplikowane uczucia, jakie towarzyszą osobie, która „pozostała” i stoi przed szansą rozpoczęcia życia na nowo, zakochania się kolejny raz. Tym, co najbardziej urzekło mnie w sposobie, w jaki motyw ten został przedstawiony jest fakt, iż Vítor niejako stawia się na miejscu swojego zmarłego męża, dzięki czemu przyznaje, że odczuwa zazdrość na myśl o tym, że po jego śmierci ukochany mógłby znaleźć sobie kogoś innego, ale jednocześnie chce, aby był on szczęśliwy. Prawdę mówiąc, ulżyło mi, ponieważ myśli Vítora w pełni oddają moje, a jeszcze jakiś czas temu obawiałam się, że czynią one ze mnie osobę bezgranicznie samolubną. Przyznaję, że to pierwszy raz, kiedy spotkałam się z takim podejściem do tego tematu w literaturze.

Kolejnym wielkim tematem poruszonym w „Made in Lisbon” jest molestowanie seksualne dzieci. Niewątpliwie jest to problem bardzo trudny, niesamowicie poważny i bolesny, jednakże w trosce o dobro dzieci nie powinien stanowić tematu tabu. Bez wątpienia dużą zaletą sposobu, w jaki Ana Newfolk odnosi się do tego problemu jest delikatność i subtelność z jaką został on w powieści przedstawiony. Autorka nie czyni z niego sensacji. Zamiast tego w pewnym stopniu skupia się na tym, w jaki sposób molestowanie odbierać może dziecko i jak w miarę jego rozwoju sposób postrzegania zachowań pedofilskich ulega zmianie. Istotne wydaje mi się także to, że autorka nie wchodzi w szczegóły, które mogłyby nas odrzucać, ale ogranicza się do pewnego minimum, niezbędnego dla nadania głębi powieści, przeżyciom bohaterów oraz po prostu dla przedstawienia problemu.

Podsumowując, „Made in Lisbon” to powieść poważna i pełna głębi, w której bohaterowie zmagają się z prawdziwymi problemami. Najważniejsza wydaje się w niej jednak nadzieja, której światło dostrzegamy pośród cieni rzucanych przez demony przeszłości. Jest to niewątpliwie książka warta polecenia.

[Monika · Rating 3 out of 5]

**3.5 Stars**

Sweet, sweet story with mild angst and some miscommunication.

One niggle not about the story but about the series. This series can also be found under the Finding You series by Ana Newfolk AKA Ana Ashley

**Note to authors - it can get very confusing when you have two series that intertwine. The reading order can sometimes change and that makes things even more confusing. It needs to be written more clearly that that's what has happened especially when newer versions come out. I am confused with this series and the Finding You series because they are virtually the same except added books. Adding an update would have been much appreciated. It's very possible that it's just me that's confused, if that's the case I sincerely apologize.

QUICK THOUGHTS
-- Age difference (forget the difference) -- previous lose of a husband -- dealing with grief -- finding love again -- secrets --miscommunication -- past abuse -- found family (blood) -- reuniting with family -- some really sweet moments -- made me a bit teary -- LOVED the MCs... Vitor & Tiago -- characters from past stories make an appearance -- can be read as a stand alone but I wouldn't

[Pontiki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vitor left his family behind after his father beat him up for being gay. He found love, married, and lost his husband three years ago. Looking for a change, he accepts a job in Lisbon.

Tiago runs the LGBTQ youth centre when Isaac is in the states with Max. He spends the rest of his time searching for his younger brother, who ran way when he was 14.

When they meet, they each have reasons to not get involved, but fate decrees they end up sharing an apartment, then falling in love.

Tiago realizes Vitor is the long lost brother of his friend David’s uncle, but isn’t sure Vitor wants to be found. Many twists later, all is revealed and repaired, and it’s a happy time for everyone in the family.

I knew there were family connections all over the place, so it was nice to see how it all turned out. Nice move for Vitor into a new relationship while still acknowledging his past marriage.

KU

[Kathy Seabrease · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so love this series. The stories and characters are so well written. I love tge continuation of the characters from the previous books and how their lives intertwine. I love MM and I love age gap, so this book was a treasure to me. The best thing about these characters is that despite their hurt and pain in their lives, they still have the ability to love, not only in this book, but in the previous as well. Tiago and Vitor fit so naturally well together. I loved watching them grow. I loved Vitor letting go of his past to be with Tiago, but still about to keep Dri. I loved that Tiago was mature enough to accept it and not feel as if he were living in Dri's shadow. I just loved it all! Ana does such a great job with her books. Can't wait to read more!

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full of feels! Both Vitro and Tiago have had difficult pasts. Vitro left his behind years ago and made a new life for himself. Tiago is still living with the fresh pain of not knowing where his brother is and if he is safe. A very brief chance meeting kindles a fire between these two men and opens the door for all kinds of hurt and healing.

Love a May/December romance, I have a personal preference for older men! Vitro and Tiago balanced each other perfectly as they got to know each other and learned to communicate.

Have enjoyed this series and getting to know all the characters better as each got their own story. My only wish would be for Fred's story...

[Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really liked these series. I hadn't read anything from this author but these wouldn't be the last ones.
It is totally worth to read the previous books... In these one a lot of the previous mysteries are solved and the relationship between the two MC is built around them.
I have really liked Vitor and all his background and development.
Worth a try!

[Robbo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Horrible back stories, a second chance of love fixes the pain.

Several separate tragic events combine for a complex story about terrible people. An incredible coincidence pushes two main characters together, as they find their HEA, but even that nearly gets derailed. “Emotional rollercoaster” is a much overused phrase, that’s very appropriate. There’s a lot of tears, laughs, love and steam.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

So much pain and love packed into this beautifully written story.
Lives are intertwined over decades and families are enmeshed in deceit and loss as well as devotion.

A book best read from the beginning of the series.

[Danna Iuliana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like vulnerable men but there was too mucj crying by the MC'd for me to enjoy this to it s fullest.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Bobbi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Again, Finding You book three by Ana Ashley. Great m/m love story. Tiago & Victor’s story. Great characters and a great storyline.

[Patti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Age gap

This is an awesome series and I loved this book. It all tied together beautifully with the other books. Tiago and Vitor meeting like they did was destined to be. It was very emotional, both characters dealing with the past. I enjoyed catching up with previous characters too. The ending was brilliant.

[Rebekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked how they had a one night stand but then through a mix up end up sharing an apartment where they are drawn to each. They both have someone they are looking for. To best enjoy the book you need to read in order as there are recurring characters.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The freedom found in second chances and the peace found in deep and abiding love are priceless. What Vitor never expected was Tiago, a young man nearer his son's age than his own, to be his second chance at life and love. These men had a relatively hard road to their forever with so many roiling emotions inside that led them both away and toward one another.

Both Vitor and Tiago had compelling stories before they got their own. I can't say that I would have imagined them together when we were introduced to Tiago or learned about Vitor in previous books in this series, but after seeing them together it became clear that they were what one another needed. There were a few moments that were more frustrating than liberating, but as their story unfolded and we see where they ended up, I'd be hard-pressed to say that those moments were unnecessary for them to finally have what they deserved.

Well, except for one moment. I found the big mystery and lie from Vitor's first husband to be incredibly underwhelming. It was so built up that I expected something relatively Earth-shattering, but the big secret was so minor in any iteration or perspective that I have no clue as to why that was the secret chosen. Honestly, for so much hurt and betrayal to be bemoaned, it was completely unnecessary.

Even with that unfortunate bit it was Vitor that held my attention right from the start. The way he needed to come to terms with his grief was believable and his decision to be with Tiago was appropriately angsty. I'm glad that when he had his "aha!" moment regarding his feelings he didn't hesitate any further. He was the solid presence, openly affectionate, and understanding partner Tiago needed to overcome his own set of trials.

Tiago was more difficult for me to love. Not because he was a poorly written character or that his story wasn't organic, it's that he was so selfish at times. Seems contradictory because of his commitment to finding something from his past so he could move on toward his future, but it still came up so many times. It was as if he became so fond of his blinders that he became the kind of partner who expected the kindness and giving heart Vitor offered but wouldn't see beyond himself to offer in return. His decision to keep information secret wasn't even for a good enough reason in my estimation either. He kept it to himself for a rather predictable reason and then compounded the problem by putting virtually everything above Vitor that he forgot all about it and then couldn't see the parallels between their situations that would have given them something infinitely tender and deeper. His obliviousness and secrecy bothered me more than anything else.

When the truth came out in a pretty bad way, as it always does, Vitor was well within his right to react as he did. Tiago knew the significance of what he was doing and did it anyway. And again, it was Vitor that needed to make all the necessary steps to keep them together. Not a fan that the relationship felt lopsided. Their resolution was incredibly sweet though, so I think it made up for quite a bit of frustration I was feeling up to that point. The whole family's coming together was so sweet that I almost forgot about the rest of what upset me. It was a long time coming and I was overjoyed that things worked out as they did. The tone of the story was exactly right for the series and I'm still very much a fan the world created.

[Xanthe · Rating 4 out of 5]

**4.5**
I am loving the Finding You series as we're introduced to and follow characters, the relationships that develop and how everyone is connected.
Tiago works at an LGBT youth centre in Lisbon and if he isn't working then he's searching for his brother who has been missing for eight years. Vitor finds himself moving from Porto back to his home town of Lisbon after his husband passed away and he finds himself looking for..... something.
The first time the two meet is at a bar and, though Vitor leaves after sharing a kiss, it's one that neither man can forget. One mix up later sees the two men sharing an apartment where their attraction kicks up a notch and a relationship develops that neither expected but equally need.
Tiago has been alone for so long that he's surprised at how much the care and support help him get through the days. Vitor always thought that he had his one true love in his husband and so finding that he may possibly have room in his heart for another leaves him unsure but also like it's so natural to fall for Tiago. It's commented and joked about a few times how there is an age gap between the two men but it rarely feels like there is one with how well they interact and have a very hot connection. They really help each other through the tough, emotional times but when something big is revealed, is what they've built enough to keep them together? Friends and family play an important part of this story for several reasons, offering the love and support needed but also rally round in times of crisis not just for the MC's but also for those they help at the centre.
Cannot recommend this book and series enough. Ana Ashley is writing such wonderful romances whilst also giving some hard emotional moments for the characters and readers to get through. I'm also in love with how well described Portugal is. I've never been but since reading this series, it's become a place I'd love to visit.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.

[Elsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing group of characters

Book three in the series, Tiago and Vitor

Second chance at love, forgiveness and moving on. This group of amazing characters with a very intertwined life don't stop amazing me. Even though I figured it out in book one it was a nice surprise how it ended. Not sure if this is the last book but I would love to read more from them.

[Mrs.V · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so incredibly good!
It is a sweet story of hurt and comfort, May/December second chance at love and finding one’s family, biological and chosen.
Vitor is an almost 50-years-old widower, who’s still struggling with grieving his husband three years after his death.
Tiago’s only goal in life for the past 6 years, apart from running the LGBTQ youth center, has been looking for his brother, who ran away from home when he was a teenager.
A chance encounter in a bar leads to an heated kiss; both of them sense that there’s more to it than just a kiss, but neither of them is ready to acknowledge it, even less act on it, most of all, neither of them expects to ever see the other man again.
When a misunderstanding forces them in close proximity the two men start to let go of both their fears and get involved in a relationship which is a balm to both their hearts and will be the support they need while facing emotional family reunions.
This book is a concentrate of emotions, it still amazes me how Ana Newfolk, only being at her fifth published book (and the third full length one, at that) can write such deep, incredible characters and bring them to life in such a brilliant and vibrant way!

[Mrs.V · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so incredibly good!
It is a sweet story of hurt and comfort, May/December second chance at love and finding one’s family, biological and chosen.
Vitor is an almost 50-years-old widower, who’s still struggling with grieving his husband three years after his death.
Tiago’s only goal in life for the past 6 years, apart from running the LGBTQ youth center, has been looking for his brother, who ran away from home when he was a teenager.
A chance encounter in a bar leads to an heated kiss; both of them sense that there’s more to it than just a kiss, but neither of them is ready to acknowledge it, even less act on it, most of all, neither of them expects to ever see the other man again.
When a misunderstanding forces them in close proximity the two men start to let go of both their fears and get involved in a relationship which is a balm to both their hearts and will be the support they need while facing emotional family reunions.
This book is a concentrate of emotions, it still amazes me how Ana Newfolk, only being at her fifth published book (and the third full length one, at that) can write such deep, incredible characters and bring them to life in such a brilliant and vibrant way!

[avid reader 1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I made the mistake of reading this without having read books one and two. I highly recommend reading them before reading this one. I tried discounting the references and continuations from previous books for this review. That left me with a disconnect between characters interacting based on those books. I'm going to do my best with just these two characters and their immediate situation.**

I found it easy to get to know and like Vitor. His backstory is both lovely and painful, and I wanted to hug him close.
Tiago, however, isn’t as much of an open book. His backstory is ugly and harsh, and I felt terrible for all that happened, but I did not become invested in his life as I did with Vitor.
Their sexual chemistry is off the charts, and there are some great spicy scenes.
I was not concerned in the least about the age gap because there was not a lot of concern in the book about the difference. I like that.
These are good characters, and maybe reading books one and two will flesh them out more for me.
I like this author and will read more from her in the future.

[Lyndsay TC · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ana Ashley has a beautiful way with words. I can picture very clearly her settings and characters vividly and I love that about her books. Especially this series, as part of each book if not the whole book takes place in Portugal and they way she describes each city and town is beautiful. Tiago and Vitor were a second chance romance after randomly meeting at a bar and then finding their way to each other by accidentally sharing Issac's apartment. We see snippets of David and Joel and Max and Issac, along with Bruno and Filipe and Mario and Teresa who play a larger role as Vitor and Mario are long lost brothers who find each other years later. In the same sense, Tiago has been searching non-stop for years for his brother who ran away at a young age. There are lots of bumps in this twisty road and a lot of miscommunication, but in the end everything works out for a perfect happily ever after.

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Tiago and Vitor was a beautiful slow burn romance with a healthy helping of angst. The characters were well-developed, the writing was stellar, and the subplots kept me on the edge of my seat for most of the book. It was a well executed story about love, loss, second chances, and healing set in the gorgeous cities of Lisbon and Porto. Honestly, what's not to love?

This was my first book of Ana Newfolk, so I jumped into this series feet first with #5. She did a great job of making this installment into a stand-alone, even though four other books came before this, (which I will go back and read next!) After reading this one, I've added this author to my list of one-click authors. It was a great story and I can't wait for the next installment!

*ARC received for an honest and unbiased review.*

[Anna Torres · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love is Love! Love is Family!

One looking for a younger brother, the other didn’t think he was still looking for something, or doesn’t really know what he is looking for, maybe a second chance at finding someone worthy to love or something that will make his life worthwhile again.

They were both searching, but never expected finding more than what they were looking for. This is a story of second chances, finding unexpected love in places you least expect to find it, and having difficulty accepting that maybe you do deserve a second chance at love, that maybe you can have more than one great love!

A story full of love and family, which I think are the most important things in life! Thank you Ms. Ana for sharing such a great family of friends and stories with us, I cannot wait for what comes next. Congratulations Ms. Ana Newfolk and all the best always!

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-hc8 on 7/11

From that review:I have been a huge fan of Ana Newfolk's Made In stories from the first novel in the series.  That  would be Made In New York which launched the series and introduced us to this amazing cast of characters that exist in Lisbon and NYC, intimately connected by families and two LGBTQIA youth centers.  While each story has at its center one couple, other of the characters appear, adding their support and pieces of their history to this rich tapestry of this series universe.  One that only grows more culturally vivid and heartwarming with each new addition and romance.



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