3.5 Stars

So I kinda liken this story to the movie Notting Hill.

You've got regular bloke Simon, who meets and falls in love with national, footy superstar Declan, where said relationship has to be hidden because Declan is not out. Eventually of course, everything comes to light and chaos ensues. Simon and Declan not only have to navigate the muddy waters of burgeoning relationship highs and lows, but a very sensational public outing. It shows in all its glory, the strain on friendships, the awkwardness with family, the stress and paranoia of being in the limelight.

Despite its length and despite the gawd awful, fade to black, I really did enjoy this. It continued to surprise me over and over, because just when I thought it would veer off into melodrama or take a turn for the worst due to some stupid miscommunication, it righted itself back up and kept on going (well minus one big incident). Interspersed generously throughout were some smart, self deprecating humor, some slap in your face sobering realism, and a lot of sarcastic, snarky wit.

So overall, I appreciated how these two handled their insecurities, feelings, and problems - all with grounded realism and standout comedic flair. For sure, Simon's droll personality was the shining glory in this, as Declan sweetly loves him for it anyway. I can honestly say I look forward to seeing what's in store for these two in the future. ( )

DNF. Giving up.

Not because our single POV guy breaks the fourth wall pretty often (in first person I find that amusing). Not because I dislike any of the characters. Not the price, it's free. What it is not is paced well. It is. So. Slow. I am stopping at chapter 12, 33% in, wary of what seems to be an iffy plot choice, but primarily I am just bored. And this isn't their whole story? There are three more books? Oh, no. No. I'm done. ( )

I read this book the first time in January 2012. I never got around to reading [b:Tigerland|16007192|Tigerland|Sean Kennedy|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1347597379s/16007192.jpg|21582793] since then, even though I had every intention of doing so as soon as I had bought it. I bought the new edition of this story and still it just sat there, waiting lol.

But boy, am I glad I reread it now. Simon and Declan are just as fantastic the second time around. The writing is a fantastic mix of serious and lightness. There is in-depth dialogue, and humorous banter. I'm not necessarily a fan of Aussie Rules football, but the author made the story more than entertaining enough that that wasn't a major issue.

Now on to the next one! ( )

A great contemporary male/male sports romance. ( )

It was sweet, funny and very emotional! 5/5 ( )