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Recommend this book:
Sinner's Prayer
A Dan Randolph/Greg Zhu Mystery
Dwain Lee
2026 Finalist
332 Pages
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Fiction - LGBTQ
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
Sinner’s Prayer by Dwain Lee is the second book in the Dan Randolph/Greg Zhu mysteries. Plumbers discover a skeleton in a concrete trench beneath the youth room floor of the Parkvale Presbyterian Church in Louisville. It is the remains of a former youth leader and elder of the church, Steve Brighton, who disappeared in the autumn of 1985 without a trace. Former architect Dan Randolph, now a pastor, helps Detective Bryan Thomas in the case and quickly learns that Steve Brighton, once considered a model parishioner, was a monster: many teens suffered abuse from him, especially Mark Mackenzie. When 54-year-old Mark Mackenzie dies by suicide in Pennsylvania, Dan understands the two deaths are linked. The congregation is forced to face crimes of stolen innocence, buried sins, and cowardice from the leaders. Can there be any healing for this community shattered by painful revelations?
Dwain Lee’s prose is excellent, with measured sentences and timely paragraph breaks. The curated playlist and musical chapter headings capture the characters’ moods and make the storytelling more creative, from Barber’s sorrow to the Beatles’ nostalgia and Prokofiev’s urgency. The characters are sophisticated, and Dan and Greg are portrayed in the context of a marriage described with humor, especially in their meditations at the goldfish pond, “finger scale” banter, and domestic rituals. Mark Mackenzie’s abuse is terrifying, and the author explores his psyche, the fear and the torment in a way that infuses the story with both pathos and humanity. Sinner’s Prayer features a vividly drawn setting with Louisville’s political texture, Parkvale’s architecture, and the bureaucratic machinery of the Presbyterian Church. It is a story of a reckoning with complicity, abuse, and redemption.
Sinner’s Prayer by Dwain Lee is the second book in the Dan Randolph/Greg Zhu mysteries. Plumbers discover a skeleton in a concrete trench beneath the youth room floor of the Parkvale Presbyterian Church in Louisville. It is the remains of a former youth leader and elder of the church, Steve Brighton, who disappeared in the autumn of 1985 without a trace. Former architect Dan Randolph, now a pastor, helps Detective Bryan Thomas in the case and quickly learns that Steve Brighton, once considered a model parishioner, was a monster: many teens suffered abuse from him, especially Mark Mackenzie. When 54-year-old Mark Mackenzie dies by suicide in Pennsylvania, Dan understands the two deaths are linked. The congregation is forced to face crimes of stolen innocence, buried sins, and cowardice from the leaders. Can there be any healing for this community shattered by painful revelations?
Dwain Lee’s prose is excellent, with measured sentences and timely paragraph breaks. The curated playlist and musical chapter headings capture the characters’ moods and make the storytelling more creative, from Barber’s sorrow to the Beatles’ nostalgia and Prokofiev’s urgency. The characters are sophisticated, and Dan and Greg are portrayed in the context of a marriage described with humor, especially in their meditations at the goldfish pond, “finger scale” banter, and domestic rituals. Mark Mackenzie’s abuse is terrifying, and the author explores his psyche, the fear and the torment in a way that infuses the story with both pathos and humanity. Sinner’s Prayer features a vividly drawn setting with Louisville’s political texture, Parkvale’s architecture, and the bureaucratic machinery of the Presbyterian Church. It is a story of a reckoning with complicity, abuse, and redemption.
Recommend this book:
An Italian Adventure
The Italian Saga Book 1
Gaia B Amman
2026 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - LGBTQ
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Gaia B. Amman’s An Italian Adventure follows Leda, who insists on being called Lee, as she grows up in 1980s Arese, a town north of Milan where fields, gated communities, and Catholic ritual sit side by side. Lee is the smallest child in her class, a bookish tomboy who feels safest with Peo and Flavio, the two boys who make up her Trio. When Nico Salisi, a class bully newly arrived from Sicily, shows them a forbidden magazine before First Confession, Lee’s fear of sin becomes tangled with shame she barely has words to express. At home, her older sister Viola turns daily life into combat while her parents’ marriage begins changing in ways no one explains. Lee’s childhood becomes a search for truth inside the rules adults barely understand themselves.
Gaia B. Amman’s An Italian Adventure is wonderful literary fiction, and Amman writes about childhood with the speed and embarrassment of actually being inside it. Her sense of place is one of the book’s greatest pleasures. The Genoa harbor sequence is hilarious, with the family baking on empty asphalt after Lee’s father arrives a day early, convinced that being first means victory. Sardinia is just as good, from the resort cottages surrounded by brush to the cold pool where Lee and Peo invent their composite-missile dive. Viola is also well developed. In the border motel, her confession about Pinocchio nightmares and a family séance makes her frightening behavior feel tied to the fear she also feels. Well written and full of life, readers who enjoy literary coming-of-age fiction will adore this book.
Gaia B. Amman’s An Italian Adventure follows Leda, who insists on being called Lee, as she grows up in 1980s Arese, a town north of Milan where fields, gated communities, and Catholic ritual sit side by side. Lee is the smallest child in her class, a bookish tomboy who feels safest with Peo and Flavio, the two boys who make up her Trio. When Nico Salisi, a class bully newly arrived from Sicily, shows them a forbidden magazine before First Confession, Lee’s fear of sin becomes tangled with shame she barely has words to express. At home, her older sister Viola turns daily life into combat while her parents’ marriage begins changing in ways no one explains. Lee’s childhood becomes a search for truth inside the rules adults barely understand themselves.
Gaia B. Amman’s An Italian Adventure is wonderful literary fiction, and Amman writes about childhood with the speed and embarrassment of actually being inside it. Her sense of place is one of the book’s greatest pleasures. The Genoa harbor sequence is hilarious, with the family baking on empty asphalt after Lee’s father arrives a day early, convinced that being first means victory. Sardinia is just as good, from the resort cottages surrounded by brush to the cold pool where Lee and Peo invent their composite-missile dive. Viola is also well developed. In the border motel, her confession about Pinocchio nightmares and a family séance makes her frightening behavior feel tied to the fear she also feels. Well written and full of life, readers who enjoy literary coming-of-age fiction will adore this book.
Recommend this book:
The Gift
Scott Terry
2026 Bronze Medal
294 Pages
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Fiction - LGBTQ
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
The Gift follows Butch Blackwell, a boy raised by his mother, Pansy, inside the strict world of the Jehovah’s Witnesses after his father, Ace Sharkey, disappears before his birth. Butch grows up in rural California under rules that shape his life, while rancher Steve Bultemeyer becomes the father figure he trusts. At eighteen, a kiss with Rusty Baldwin brings Butch’s private life into conflict with his religion, forcing him from home and far from the community that raised him. Years later, Steve’s death sends Butch toward a buried family secret involving Ace. That discovery draws him across the country in search of the truth about the father he has never known and forces him to decide what kind of life he is willing to claim.
Scott Terry’s The Gift understands a truth about people: what someone does when another person is exposed tells you who they are. That is why Steve works so well. He realizes Butch is gay, then pays his nephew a dollar to start a pregnancy rumor because he knows gossip can protect the boy. Terry gets human behavior right. Brad works for the same reason. He is a polished New York psychologist who knew Butch’s father, yet every conversation with this blunt Oregon cowboy feels like two people taking each other’s measure. The ranching world gives Butch’s adulthood credibility, especially through the auction-yard language that becomes his livelihood. There's a huge twist that changes the trajectory of more than Butch's life that is awesome. For readers who enjoy chosen-family LGBTQ+ stories, this book should go to the top of the list.
The Gift follows Butch Blackwell, a boy raised by his mother, Pansy, inside the strict world of the Jehovah’s Witnesses after his father, Ace Sharkey, disappears before his birth. Butch grows up in rural California under rules that shape his life, while rancher Steve Bultemeyer becomes the father figure he trusts. At eighteen, a kiss with Rusty Baldwin brings Butch’s private life into conflict with his religion, forcing him from home and far from the community that raised him. Years later, Steve’s death sends Butch toward a buried family secret involving Ace. That discovery draws him across the country in search of the truth about the father he has never known and forces him to decide what kind of life he is willing to claim.
Scott Terry’s The Gift understands a truth about people: what someone does when another person is exposed tells you who they are. That is why Steve works so well. He realizes Butch is gay, then pays his nephew a dollar to start a pregnancy rumor because he knows gossip can protect the boy. Terry gets human behavior right. Brad works for the same reason. He is a polished New York psychologist who knew Butch’s father, yet every conversation with this blunt Oregon cowboy feels like two people taking each other’s measure. The ranching world gives Butch’s adulthood credibility, especially through the auction-yard language that becomes his livelihood. There's a huge twist that changes the trajectory of more than Butch's life that is awesome. For readers who enjoy chosen-family LGBTQ+ stories, this book should go to the top of the list.
Recommend this book:
Sparks
Jae
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - LGBTQ
Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite
Sparks by Jae follows Willow Greene, a reserved and socially awkward administrative employee whose unusual tendency to short-circuit computers and other electronics has earned her a reputation around the office. Her constant technical mishaps regularly bring her into contact with Scottie Prescott, a friendly and capable IT specialist who always seems to appear whenever Willow's latest technological disaster strikes. What begins as a series of amusing workplace encounters gradually develops into a genuine friendship as the two women spend more time together. From being trapped together in a broken elevator and sharing lunches to attending office events, family gatherings, and navigating the pressures of demanding work projects, Willow and Scottie slowly build a relationship founded on trust and understanding.
I thoroughly enjoyed Sparks by Jae because it delivers exactly the kind of slow-burn romance that I love. Rather than relying on unnecessary drama or instant attraction, the relationship develops naturally through everyday moments that allow the emotional connection between Willow and Scottie to grow at a believable pace. The workplace setting is wonderfully realized, making the office feel like a place filled with memorable coworkers, lighthearted humor, and realistic professional challenges. I especially appreciated how Willow's strange electrical ability added a unique and entertaining element to the story without overshadowing the romance itself. The character development is one of the novel's greatest strengths. Watching Willow gradually gain confidence and learn to trust someone after years of keeping people at a distance felt authentic and rewarding, while Scottie's kindness, patience, and steady support made her an incredibly easy character to love. Overall, Sparks by Jae is a warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying romance with engaging characters, excellent emotional depth, and a relationship that feels both realistic and hopeful.
Sparks by Jae follows Willow Greene, a reserved and socially awkward administrative employee whose unusual tendency to short-circuit computers and other electronics has earned her a reputation around the office. Her constant technical mishaps regularly bring her into contact with Scottie Prescott, a friendly and capable IT specialist who always seems to appear whenever Willow's latest technological disaster strikes. What begins as a series of amusing workplace encounters gradually develops into a genuine friendship as the two women spend more time together. From being trapped together in a broken elevator and sharing lunches to attending office events, family gatherings, and navigating the pressures of demanding work projects, Willow and Scottie slowly build a relationship founded on trust and understanding.
I thoroughly enjoyed Sparks by Jae because it delivers exactly the kind of slow-burn romance that I love. Rather than relying on unnecessary drama or instant attraction, the relationship develops naturally through everyday moments that allow the emotional connection between Willow and Scottie to grow at a believable pace. The workplace setting is wonderfully realized, making the office feel like a place filled with memorable coworkers, lighthearted humor, and realistic professional challenges. I especially appreciated how Willow's strange electrical ability added a unique and entertaining element to the story without overshadowing the romance itself. The character development is one of the novel's greatest strengths. Watching Willow gradually gain confidence and learn to trust someone after years of keeping people at a distance felt authentic and rewarding, while Scottie's kindness, patience, and steady support made her an incredibly easy character to love. Overall, Sparks by Jae is a warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying romance with engaging characters, excellent emotional depth, and a relationship that feels both realistic and hopeful.
Recommend this book:
Brighter Than The Sun
San Francisco Sex Gods Book 2
Kit Erikson
2026 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - LGBTQ
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
Brighter Than the Sun is the second book in Kit Erikson’s San Francisco Sex Gods, and it delivers an enthralling portrayal of San Francisco’s gay nightlife. Blake Larsen is a beguilingly handsome exotic dancer and porn star known as Dirk Slocum. He dreams of opening his own burlesque club. When he meets Ethan, an aspiring horror writer and a business student, their instant spark leads to a tender romance complicated by Blake’s hidden career. As Ethan helps Blake with a business plan to transform the Firehouse into the classy Siren club, Blake’s past begins to unravel. Sabotage, misunderstandings, and food poisoning at the grand opening threaten their love. They must choose what respect means for them if they want to build a life and a “stage” together.
Kit Erikson excels in character work. The depth of the characters makes it irresistible. Blake’s insane ambition drives the plot, and while he appears perfect physically, he is flawed, struggling with his past and his need for genuine love. Ethan is a piece of work; he is smart and, at times, confused about what he really wants. But his character arc is so ingeniously rendered that his journey toward accepting his desires and making difficult choices about his relationship with Blake infuses the story with energy. Brighter Than the Sun delivers laugh-out-loud humor through characters like the flamboyant Zane, the loyal Tenny, and the gruff mentor, Virgil. The plot twists and scenes, such as a last-minute shortage of dancers, keep the pacing brisk. This book offers a finely rendered San Francisco setting, a world where found family may matter more than blood.
Brighter Than the Sun is the second book in Kit Erikson’s San Francisco Sex Gods, and it delivers an enthralling portrayal of San Francisco’s gay nightlife. Blake Larsen is a beguilingly handsome exotic dancer and porn star known as Dirk Slocum. He dreams of opening his own burlesque club. When he meets Ethan, an aspiring horror writer and a business student, their instant spark leads to a tender romance complicated by Blake’s hidden career. As Ethan helps Blake with a business plan to transform the Firehouse into the classy Siren club, Blake’s past begins to unravel. Sabotage, misunderstandings, and food poisoning at the grand opening threaten their love. They must choose what respect means for them if they want to build a life and a “stage” together.
Kit Erikson excels in character work. The depth of the characters makes it irresistible. Blake’s insane ambition drives the plot, and while he appears perfect physically, he is flawed, struggling with his past and his need for genuine love. Ethan is a piece of work; he is smart and, at times, confused about what he really wants. But his character arc is so ingeniously rendered that his journey toward accepting his desires and making difficult choices about his relationship with Blake infuses the story with energy. Brighter Than the Sun delivers laugh-out-loud humor through characters like the flamboyant Zane, the loyal Tenny, and the gruff mentor, Virgil. The plot twists and scenes, such as a last-minute shortage of dancers, keep the pacing brisk. This book offers a finely rendered San Francisco setting, a world where found family may matter more than blood.
Recommend this book:
Seven Perfect Days
Francesca Vespa
2025 Honorable Mention
381 Pages
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Fiction - LGBTQ
Reviewed by Angelique Papayannopoulos for Readers' Favorite
Francesca Vespa's Seven Perfect Days chronicles the story of Maggie as she navigates her complicated life from high school into her late twenties. A tragic event has been haunting her for years and has been causing emotional turmoil for some time, while her eccentric friend Alex tends to be unstable and energy-draining. The friendship is further strained when Alex learns a secret Maggie withheld from her. Amid her chaotic life, a trip overseas brings her renewed hope. As Maggie struggles with self-discovery, she always seems to fall in love with gay boys. Traveling to exotic locations, she meets new people and develops new friendships, as well as sexual encounters. Then Maggie meets Adam Moon, a kindred soul from the Maldives, who is as messed up as she is. But, due to political unrest on the island, Adam goes missing. An intriguing love interest seems to be blossoming, but is this the right time to pursue it?
An enthralling novel of friendship and betrayal, Seven Perfect Days explores the bonds of friendship and loyalty. The novel has a character-driven plot, featuring a cast of complex yet intriguing characters who draw you into their world. Francesca Vespa's narrative is a balanced blend of dark drama, emotions, humor, and wittiness. While the narrative is almost memoir-like and poetic, it is fascinating and engaging to read. Despite some parts seeming drawn out, the reader will be absorbed in the subsequent events. Seven Perfect Days is a heartwarming and heartbreaking story woven together with themes of friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness. You'll enjoy this book if you like humorous dramas full of emotional rollercoasters and culture shocks, and are open-minded about gay relationships and sexual content. I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed the ride!
Francesca Vespa's Seven Perfect Days chronicles the story of Maggie as she navigates her complicated life from high school into her late twenties. A tragic event has been haunting her for years and has been causing emotional turmoil for some time, while her eccentric friend Alex tends to be unstable and energy-draining. The friendship is further strained when Alex learns a secret Maggie withheld from her. Amid her chaotic life, a trip overseas brings her renewed hope. As Maggie struggles with self-discovery, she always seems to fall in love with gay boys. Traveling to exotic locations, she meets new people and develops new friendships, as well as sexual encounters. Then Maggie meets Adam Moon, a kindred soul from the Maldives, who is as messed up as she is. But, due to political unrest on the island, Adam goes missing. An intriguing love interest seems to be blossoming, but is this the right time to pursue it?
An enthralling novel of friendship and betrayal, Seven Perfect Days explores the bonds of friendship and loyalty. The novel has a character-driven plot, featuring a cast of complex yet intriguing characters who draw you into their world. Francesca Vespa's narrative is a balanced blend of dark drama, emotions, humor, and wittiness. While the narrative is almost memoir-like and poetic, it is fascinating and engaging to read. Despite some parts seeming drawn out, the reader will be absorbed in the subsequent events. Seven Perfect Days is a heartwarming and heartbreaking story woven together with themes of friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness. You'll enjoy this book if you like humorous dramas full of emotional rollercoasters and culture shocks, and are open-minded about gay relationships and sexual content. I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed the ride!
Recommend this book:
The Third Act
Kathleen Brehony
2025 Bronze Medal
243 Pages
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Fiction - LGBTQ
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
Shanon O'Connell has barely recovered from a heartbreaking relationship; now she must watch one of her closest friends and fellow group member, Linda, painfully lose her battle with cancer and exit their group, which they affectionately call 'the tribe.' Trying to put on a brave face in their group, which has been together for over three decades, they gather at one of Linda's favorite venues to honor her life and memory, reminiscing about what was and what could have been. The last thing Shanon expects is that this gathering might be the catalyst for her to find one last chance at love with fellow tribe member Elizabeth Matthews. Only time will tell if they can overcome the emotional and physical barriers between them in Kathleen Brehony's The Third Act.
Kathleen Brehony's urban romance explores love in the twilight years. The character development reveals each tribe member's background while highlighting this web of friends and how their unique connections strengthen the group. The moments when Shanon reminisces about her relationship with Linda, contrasting it with the circumstances that led to her meeting Elizabeth, perfectly illustrate this. The dialogue is casual and filled with lighthearted, mildly comedic episodes, such as the Jell-O Cool Whip incident, which coincide with slower moments in the story. These stylishly crafted scenes lighten the tone as readers enjoy the antics of these senior citizens. The narrative shifts between Shanon's and Elizabeth's perspectives, helping readers better understand key aspects of the plot, like the intriguing connection between mediums and matters of the heart. Brehony's narrative style reminds readers that The Third Act is primarily a romance, featuring sexual encounters that leave little to the imagination. Brehony weaves drama, romance, and humor into a contemporary setting that many readers will find relatable, creating a unique novel.
Shanon O'Connell has barely recovered from a heartbreaking relationship; now she must watch one of her closest friends and fellow group member, Linda, painfully lose her battle with cancer and exit their group, which they affectionately call 'the tribe.' Trying to put on a brave face in their group, which has been together for over three decades, they gather at one of Linda's favorite venues to honor her life and memory, reminiscing about what was and what could have been. The last thing Shanon expects is that this gathering might be the catalyst for her to find one last chance at love with fellow tribe member Elizabeth Matthews. Only time will tell if they can overcome the emotional and physical barriers between them in Kathleen Brehony's The Third Act.
Kathleen Brehony's urban romance explores love in the twilight years. The character development reveals each tribe member's background while highlighting this web of friends and how their unique connections strengthen the group. The moments when Shanon reminisces about her relationship with Linda, contrasting it with the circumstances that led to her meeting Elizabeth, perfectly illustrate this. The dialogue is casual and filled with lighthearted, mildly comedic episodes, such as the Jell-O Cool Whip incident, which coincide with slower moments in the story. These stylishly crafted scenes lighten the tone as readers enjoy the antics of these senior citizens. The narrative shifts between Shanon's and Elizabeth's perspectives, helping readers better understand key aspects of the plot, like the intriguing connection between mediums and matters of the heart. Brehony's narrative style reminds readers that The Third Act is primarily a romance, featuring sexual encounters that leave little to the imagination. Brehony weaves drama, romance, and humor into a contemporary setting that many readers will find relatable, creating a unique novel.
Recommend this book:
 by Kit Erikson is a fun, emotional LGBTQ+ romance about self-discovery, love, and figuring out what really matters. Spencer, a confident 'sex god,' has one goal—complete his 'F*-it List' before he turns thirty. But when he meets Mickey, a shy and inexperienced romantic, things don’t go as planned....){kind=link}
Better Than Sex
San Francisco Sex Gods Book 1
Kit Erikson
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - LGBTQ
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Better Than Sex (San Francisco Sex Gods Book 1) by Kit Erikson is a fun, emotional LGBTQ+ romance about self-discovery, love, and figuring out what really matters. Spencer, a confident 'sex god,' has one goal—complete his 'F*-it List' before he turns thirty. But when he meets Mickey, a shy and inexperienced romantic, things don’t go as planned. Mickey agrees to a confidence-boosting makeover, but in the process, he ends up changing Spencer just as much. What starts as a playful challenge slowly turns into something real, full of humor, vulnerability, and unexpected feelings. As Mickey learns to believe in himself on his journey, we see Spencer facing his fears about love and commitment. The story is set in San Francisco, and the city is just as important as the characters, with detailed descriptions of local spots, neighborhoods, and the vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
Kit Erikson has a way with dialogue—it’s sharp, funny, and full of personality, making the characters realistic from the start. The chemistry between Spencer and Mickey is undeniable, making every interaction sizzle, whether it’s playful banter or a more tender moment. I loved how the author layers this steamy romance with deeper themes like self-worth and identity, making sure the emotional connection is just as important as the attraction for a fully rounded story. Both characters grow in a way that is natural thanks to the author's talent for dialogue and realistic storytelling. The side characters are just as great, adding humor and heartwarming moments to the plot while also showing how important chosen family is for the LGBTQ+ community. The conflicts in the plot come from real fears and flaws, making the romance even more satisfying as Spencer and Mickey work through them. Overall, Better Than Sex is a heartwarming, sexy, and addictive start to the series. It's a book I recommend, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Better Than Sex (San Francisco Sex Gods Book 1) by Kit Erikson is a fun, emotional LGBTQ+ romance about self-discovery, love, and figuring out what really matters. Spencer, a confident 'sex god,' has one goal—complete his 'F*-it List' before he turns thirty. But when he meets Mickey, a shy and inexperienced romantic, things don’t go as planned. Mickey agrees to a confidence-boosting makeover, but in the process, he ends up changing Spencer just as much. What starts as a playful challenge slowly turns into something real, full of humor, vulnerability, and unexpected feelings. As Mickey learns to believe in himself on his journey, we see Spencer facing his fears about love and commitment. The story is set in San Francisco, and the city is just as important as the characters, with detailed descriptions of local spots, neighborhoods, and the vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
Kit Erikson has a way with dialogue—it’s sharp, funny, and full of personality, making the characters realistic from the start. The chemistry between Spencer and Mickey is undeniable, making every interaction sizzle, whether it’s playful banter or a more tender moment. I loved how the author layers this steamy romance with deeper themes like self-worth and identity, making sure the emotional connection is just as important as the attraction for a fully rounded story. Both characters grow in a way that is natural thanks to the author's talent for dialogue and realistic storytelling. The side characters are just as great, adding humor and heartwarming moments to the plot while also showing how important chosen family is for the LGBTQ+ community. The conflicts in the plot come from real fears and flaws, making the romance even more satisfying as Spencer and Mickey work through them. Overall, Better Than Sex is a heartwarming, sexy, and addictive start to the series. It's a book I recommend, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Recommend this book:
The Photograph
The Techboys Series
Eve M Riley
2025 Gold Medal
340 Pages
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Fiction - LGBTQ
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Photograph by Eve M. Riley, the fourth book in The Techboys series, is a contemporary LGBTQ romance that follows the journey of two men navigating trust, desire, and the risks of opening up. When a chance meeting leads to an exchange of photographs, an undeniable attraction forms between them. As they grow closer, secrets from Alex's past surface, testing the strength of their connection. With a mix of hope and vulnerability, both men must decide whether to let their pasts dictate their futures or embrace a love that offers a chance for healing and new beginnings.
Author Eve M. Riley demonstrates remarkable skill in crafting a romance that delves deep beneath the surface of attraction to explore the complexities of trust and vulnerability. Her writing creates moments of both passionate chemistry and tender intimacy that feel genuine and earned. I really enjoyed the dialogue of the two central characters which sets them apart in attitude and energy but brings them together with brilliant wit, honesty, and love. I was particularly touched by how Riley develops both protagonists with equal care, making their individual journeys of growth as compelling as their shared romance and letting us see how they bring out hidden qualities in one another. The way she integrates themes of healing and self-discovery into the narrative elevates the story beyond typical romance conventions. Something that really resonated with me was the sensitive handling of past trauma and its impact on new relationships, creating a story that feels both honest and hopeful about the possibility of love after pain. Overall, The Photograph is a beautifully crafted romance that will deeply satisfy both fans of the series and newcomers alike, and I would certainly recommend it.
The Photograph by Eve M. Riley, the fourth book in The Techboys series, is a contemporary LGBTQ romance that follows the journey of two men navigating trust, desire, and the risks of opening up. When a chance meeting leads to an exchange of photographs, an undeniable attraction forms between them. As they grow closer, secrets from Alex's past surface, testing the strength of their connection. With a mix of hope and vulnerability, both men must decide whether to let their pasts dictate their futures or embrace a love that offers a chance for healing and new beginnings.
Author Eve M. Riley demonstrates remarkable skill in crafting a romance that delves deep beneath the surface of attraction to explore the complexities of trust and vulnerability. Her writing creates moments of both passionate chemistry and tender intimacy that feel genuine and earned. I really enjoyed the dialogue of the two central characters which sets them apart in attitude and energy but brings them together with brilliant wit, honesty, and love. I was particularly touched by how Riley develops both protagonists with equal care, making their individual journeys of growth as compelling as their shared romance and letting us see how they bring out hidden qualities in one another. The way she integrates themes of healing and self-discovery into the narrative elevates the story beyond typical romance conventions. Something that really resonated with me was the sensitive handling of past trauma and its impact on new relationships, creating a story that feels both honest and hopeful about the possibility of love after pain. Overall, The Photograph is a beautifully crafted romance that will deeply satisfy both fans of the series and newcomers alike, and I would certainly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Mandrake Manor
A LGBT Cozy Suburban Fantasy
JP Rindfleisch IX
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - LGBTQ
Reviewed by Shrabastee Chakraborty for Readers' Favorite
Never in his wildest dreams did Mat imagine inheriting a manor. Yet, he was now the owner of a vast and ornate, if a little peculiar, mansion. The entire business was somewhat bizarre, including the lawyer’s office that seemed to materialize out of nowhere and the entrance to the locality that kept eluding newcomers. The stipulation that he had to bring two friends with him sounded odd, too. However, these were minor issues compared to the nosy chairperson and the outlandish rules of the homeowner’s association. How will Mat, Frankie, and August fare in their new residence? What happens when they come across a magical tome? To find out, read Mandrake Manor, the first book of the Henbane Hollow series by J. P. Rindfleisch.
This novel, bursting with magic and mayhem, transports readers to an extraordinary world. In this place where magic lurks in every nook and cranny, nothing is as it seems, and every day brings a memorable adventure. Alongside the unsuspecting trio, we come across mind-blowing surprises and participate in complicated rituals. The ingenious chapter titles and introductory verses further add to the charm. The soulful and quirky characters filled me with joy. Their continuous banter and double entendre enlivened the story. I loved how J. P. Rindfleisch gave each friend a satisfying romantic subplot. Despite having some formidably dark characters and unforeseen twists, the book exudes a feel-good vibe. With tales of friendship, love, and betrayal, Mandrake Manor is a whimsical and delightful read. I recommend it to anyone who appreciates a magical LGBTQ+ book.
Never in his wildest dreams did Mat imagine inheriting a manor. Yet, he was now the owner of a vast and ornate, if a little peculiar, mansion. The entire business was somewhat bizarre, including the lawyer’s office that seemed to materialize out of nowhere and the entrance to the locality that kept eluding newcomers. The stipulation that he had to bring two friends with him sounded odd, too. However, these were minor issues compared to the nosy chairperson and the outlandish rules of the homeowner’s association. How will Mat, Frankie, and August fare in their new residence? What happens when they come across a magical tome? To find out, read Mandrake Manor, the first book of the Henbane Hollow series by J. P. Rindfleisch.
This novel, bursting with magic and mayhem, transports readers to an extraordinary world. In this place where magic lurks in every nook and cranny, nothing is as it seems, and every day brings a memorable adventure. Alongside the unsuspecting trio, we come across mind-blowing surprises and participate in complicated rituals. The ingenious chapter titles and introductory verses further add to the charm. The soulful and quirky characters filled me with joy. Their continuous banter and double entendre enlivened the story. I loved how J. P. Rindfleisch gave each friend a satisfying romantic subplot. Despite having some formidably dark characters and unforeseen twists, the book exudes a feel-good vibe. With tales of friendship, love, and betrayal, Mandrake Manor is a whimsical and delightful read. I recommend it to anyone who appreciates a magical LGBTQ+ book.
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