The Little Things by Jay Northcote
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I had read this in ebook format a while ago and while I enjoyed it back then, I have to say... I really enjoyed hearing it in audio.

Starting with the story, it's just so sweet about Joel's journey through a really rough time in his life. He's a single dad to his 3 year old daughter Evie. He's dealing with loss, coming to terms with fatherhood, and feeling his way through his emotions and what he wants for Evie.

While there was romance, the story centered more on Joel just living through the every day minutiae and coming out a good father and brother. His love interest, Liam, was introduced halfway through the story and was merely a supportive role in his quest to find his happiness. It was well written, very descriptive and enjoyable.

The narration by Matthew Lloyd Davies was, in a word, soothing. His mellow voice really added character to Joel and I thought his little Evie voice was spot on. With the tone set as smooth from the start, it was easy to keep up pace and the chapters flowed nicely. In my opinion, the narration added to the overall experience and I enjoyed listening immensely.

*Galley copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Mud & Lace by Jay Northcote
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Self discovery is a vast, scary, exhausting experience and one that isn't easy to express. Jay Northcote has taken this delicate notion and created a wildly romantic, generous tale of two men united in their journey and given them both the words and means to support each other and has done it with excellence.

Charlie's character has always had a feminine side. He's been ashamed and scared of showing it...afraid of his friends opinions as well as his mother. When he takes the chance to dress up and sing as Lady Gogo at Rainbow Place, he finally feels like a piece of the puzzle has snapped into place.

Simon 'Wicksy' Wicks is straight. And has feelings for a guy who dresses as a girl. But he's still straight, right?

At first I was worried for the obvious reasons. Was Wicksy really taking advantage of Charlie by ignoring the masculine side of him and flaunting the femme? Jay quickly dispelled that thought when the characters voiced their own worry.

Things weren't easy, but the support of family and friends allowed each of them to acknowledge and accept what they felt was true and real for them. It was amazing to read and get to know both Simon and Charlie. The intense feelings between them were palpable.

I've loved each book in this series, but I have to admit... I've been waiting for Wicksy's story. He's intrigued me from the start and Jay Northcote did NOT disappoint. I loved this book. I loved how carefully played out it all was. It was crafted with intent and so very well done. Do yourself a favor and read this awesome tale of love and awareness.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*

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