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tinusreads's reviews
178 reviews
The Velvet Rage: Overcoming the Pain of Growing Up Gay in a Straight Man's World by Alan Downs
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
fast-paced
3.0
This book was groundbreaking at a time. And a lot of subject matter and answers to certain questions are still extremely relevant today. But I can't help but feel a bit put off by this book. It's not because of the fact that quite some stuff written in the book is applicable to me, or how my life has formed up until now through shame. It's just the way it is written, which is quite sad and sterile. With a lot of focus on the negative things that form our lives sometimes. But I am missing everything good in between.
It also has to do with the fact that it reflects only a specific type of gay man. Mostly rich gay folk from the city that can afford therapy. I've lived in the city for years, but I did not grow up there. I do not spend all my time in the gym to become an ideal man. I don't try to stop aging through medical help. I do not have endless random hookups for a type of validation. And I'm also not extremely good at stuff that makes me fabulous at white parties. So I don't really think this was aimed at me. A Dutch guy living in a (small) city, just trying to make a living and be content.
I have lived with shame, yes. Especially before- and a while after I came out. I was bullied at school and had my straight crushes. I have had my share of pain, heartbreak and love. But the greater part of the book did not feel relatable to me. I did recognize myself or the way some of my friends live in a few different parts of the book. And the way we live our lives sometimes and strive for different things. But not everything is all doom and gloom continuously. It also depends on what you choose in life and who you surround yourself with. Which in itself is also a journey, as described in the book.
I get why this book resonates with a lot of people. A study on gay shame and different phases in our lives and how we eventually start to live authentically. And how it can be a guide or mirror to escape the clutches of shame and heal. To let go or be at peace with certain parts or moments in your life. It just wasn't that for me personally in this stage of my life.
And hey, that's okay.
It also has to do with the fact that it reflects only a specific type of gay man. Mostly rich gay folk from the city that can afford therapy. I've lived in the city for years, but I did not grow up there. I do not spend all my time in the gym to become an ideal man. I don't try to stop aging through medical help. I do not have endless random hookups for a type of validation. And I'm also not extremely good at stuff that makes me fabulous at white parties. So I don't really think this was aimed at me. A Dutch guy living in a (small) city, just trying to make a living and be content.
I have lived with shame, yes. Especially before- and a while after I came out. I was bullied at school and had my straight crushes. I have had my share of pain, heartbreak and love. But the greater part of the book did not feel relatable to me. I did recognize myself or the way some of my friends live in a few different parts of the book. And the way we live our lives sometimes and strive for different things. But not everything is all doom and gloom continuously. It also depends on what you choose in life and who you surround yourself with. Which in itself is also a journey, as described in the book.
I get why this book resonates with a lot of people. A study on gay shame and different phases in our lives and how we eventually start to live authentically. And how it can be a guide or mirror to escape the clutches of shame and heal. To let go or be at peace with certain parts or moments in your life. It just wasn't that for me personally in this stage of my life.
And hey, that's okay.
The Titan's Bride Vol. 6 by ITKZ
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
The Titan's Bride series is a manga that, even though it's absolutely ridiculous, I keep returning to. We have now reached the sixth volume in this series about a tiny human and a giant titan just trying to make it all work. In this volume Kouichi is still dedicated to hatching the egg that will show his worth to the kingdom as he learns about the different races of people around him. Winning some to his side, but some have other plans with him. Meanwhile titan Caius tries to deal with the Tildant political crisis that is unfolding.
This volume actually suprised me a bit with it's depth and how it specifically both does some pretty good Tildant worldbuilding. The book is still a stupidly horny mess, don't get me wrong. I mean, look at the cover of the book. But there was more story this time around. The political sidestory, Kouichi learning defensive magic, more about the differents races and how they are viewed, more family matters. It makes me wonder how Kouichi's family is doing back home.
By now you think Kouichi and Caius will have tried everything, but nope... there was more. This one was quite fun.
This volume actually suprised me a bit with it's depth and how it specifically both does some pretty good Tildant worldbuilding. The book is still a stupidly horny mess, don't get me wrong. I mean, look at the cover of the book. But there was more story this time around. The political sidestory, Kouichi learning defensive magic, more about the differents races and how they are viewed, more family matters. It makes me wonder how Kouichi's family is doing back home.
By now you think Kouichi and Caius will have tried everything, but nope... there was more. This one was quite fun.
The Titan's Bride Vol. 5 by ITKZ
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.75
We have reached the fifth volume of this incredibly stupid, but oh so entertaining manga. Kouichi has been pulled into Tildant’s succession crisis and is targeted by Tildant nobles, accused of being an unworthy partner to a king. Wanting to protect his beloved Caius and prove himself to the court, Kouichi accepts a challenge to prove his worth. Which all sounds lovely on paper, but in the book this all falls a bit flat.
Then again how much depth in a storyline can you expect with a series like this? Well, I must say that the previous volumes had a bit more of a cohesive story. This one wants to weave together some plot points but they don't really go anywhere. Kouichi taking care of that damn egg I keep forgetting about. Caius rekindling with old friends and family, but with what reason? All the other characters seem a bit in waiting, as if the sixth volume will be where everything actually happens.
Kouichi's magic has now been teased longer than.. well, let's not go there shall we. To keep it short, entertaining for all the wrong reasons. But not the best in the series.
Then again how much depth in a storyline can you expect with a series like this? Well, I must say that the previous volumes had a bit more of a cohesive story. This one wants to weave together some plot points but they don't really go anywhere. Kouichi taking care of that damn egg I keep forgetting about. Caius rekindling with old friends and family, but with what reason? All the other characters seem a bit in waiting, as if the sixth volume will be where everything actually happens.
Kouichi's magic has now been teased longer than.. well, let's not go there shall we. To keep it short, entertaining for all the wrong reasons. But not the best in the series.
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I had seen this book all over Bookstagram, but somehow it never ended up on my bookshelf. A while ago I finally decided to take the plunge and pick it up and read. And boy did I enjoy it. Aristotle and Dante discover the Secrets of the Universe is a beautiful story that truly touched me.
Dante and Ari are polar opposites and yet they find a connection together. Dante can swim, but Ari can't. Ari has a hard time with words and feelings while Dante expresses himself freely. They develop a special bond together as they discover things about themselves. They learn about the most important truths in the universe as they grow up fast and their friendship is put to the test.
The story flows nicely as a set of characters is introduced that are all very likeable in their own ways. From their parents to the dog called Legs. But the story really made me fall in love with Ari and Dante and how they interact together. Sometimes chapters are just whole conversations they have together. Or just single words they communicate to eachother.
I don't want to spoil anything about the story because I think it deserves a change. Especially if you have not read it like I did. The story warms my heart and made me quite emotional in the end. And that's good, happy tears.
Dante and Ari are polar opposites and yet they find a connection together. Dante can swim, but Ari can't. Ari has a hard time with words and feelings while Dante expresses himself freely. They develop a special bond together as they discover things about themselves. They learn about the most important truths in the universe as they grow up fast and their friendship is put to the test.
The story flows nicely as a set of characters is introduced that are all very likeable in their own ways. From their parents to the dog called Legs. But the story really made me fall in love with Ari and Dante and how they interact together. Sometimes chapters are just whole conversations they have together. Or just single words they communicate to eachother.
I don't want to spoil anything about the story because I think it deserves a change. Especially if you have not read it like I did. The story warms my heart and made me quite emotional in the end. And that's good, happy tears.
DC Pride 2021 by Andrea Shea, Michael McCalister, Chris Conroy, Jessica Chen, Diego López, Amedeo Turturro
adventurous
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
DC Pride Love and Justice is another collection of comics starring lgbtqi+ DC Universe superheroes. Heroes like Harley Quinn, John Constantine, Crush, Aqualad, Extraño, Batwoman and dreamer. My favorite comics of the bunch being Another word for a truck to move your furniture, Love Life and Visibility. The extra artwork featured after the comics was also really sweet.
This Skin Was Once Mine and Other Disturbances by Eric LaRocca
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
Another beautiful collection of four horror stories from the mind of Eric LaRocca. We start with the titular story, This Skin was Once Mine. About Jillian who never truly escaped the abuse of her father and finds herself back in her parents house for his funeral. A painful story, especially considering the subject matter. But I felt myself longing for a bit more. The twist is a surprise, but I still have a lot of unanswered questions. What about her mom and what happened to her? What about the snakes and the snakeskins? It is a short story after all, so it's hard to explain everything.
Seedling followed up next. A story about a dad and his son deeply connecting together when mother passes away. This one was quite special as it leaves you wondering what truly happened.
All the parts of you that won't easily burn is a story about a man looking for a knife to gift to his partner. This one is perhaps my favorite story of the bunch as it takes a turn and becomes especially gory.
Prickle is the final and perhaps shortest story of the bunch. It's a tale of two old friends playing a heinous little game they used to play. As the game is getting increasingly worse, what is the limit?
In the end this book is another wonderful collection of horror stories with great queer representation.
Seedling followed up next. A story about a dad and his son deeply connecting together when mother passes away. This one was quite special as it leaves you wondering what truly happened.
All the parts of you that won't easily burn is a story about a man looking for a knife to gift to his partner. This one is perhaps my favorite story of the bunch as it takes a turn and becomes especially gory.
Prickle is the final and perhaps shortest story of the bunch. It's a tale of two old friends playing a heinous little game they used to play. As the game is getting increasingly worse, what is the limit?
In the end this book is another wonderful collection of horror stories with great queer representation.
Veranderen: methode by Édouard Louis
challenging
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Change is a strange thing. I have changed all throughout my life and probably will until the day that I die. Change is inevitable. Change is sometimes necessary. In order to continue, to grow, or to survive. In order to become who we want to be.
In this book, Édouard Louis tells us all about the changes he went through. And at what cost all those changes came. An extremely painful journey where Louis constantly wants to reinvent himself in order to distance himself further from the person he once was. His upbringing and his working-class youth. This is not a happy tale. This is not change for the better. This is change because he feels like he must shed every skin with a better, smarter, and richer one. Leaving behind a trail of friends and family.
Slowly but surely climbing the social ladder. Changing his education, studying, and even altering his appearance to keep moving on up. But at what price? In the end, you can't outrun your own shame, insecurities, and heritage. When I read the book, I felt a certain kind of fascination but also annoyance for Louis, which I guess is also the point. The story also acts as a sort of apology to those he met and left behind. It's a fascinating story about someone desperate to become more than he once was.
When I look back at my life up until now, I too have been many different people. Falling in and out of different groups of friends, relationships, and places where I lived. I like the person who I am now much more than I did before. But sometimes it feels like this is just another version too. Who will I become next?
In this book, Édouard Louis tells us all about the changes he went through. And at what cost all those changes came. An extremely painful journey where Louis constantly wants to reinvent himself in order to distance himself further from the person he once was. His upbringing and his working-class youth. This is not a happy tale. This is not change for the better. This is change because he feels like he must shed every skin with a better, smarter, and richer one. Leaving behind a trail of friends and family.
Slowly but surely climbing the social ladder. Changing his education, studying, and even altering his appearance to keep moving on up. But at what price? In the end, you can't outrun your own shame, insecurities, and heritage. When I read the book, I felt a certain kind of fascination but also annoyance for Louis, which I guess is also the point. The story also acts as a sort of apology to those he met and left behind. It's a fascinating story about someone desperate to become more than he once was.
When I look back at my life up until now, I too have been many different people. Falling in and out of different groups of friends, relationships, and places where I lived. I like the person who I am now much more than I did before. But sometimes it feels like this is just another version too. Who will I become next?
Scared Stiff, Part 4: A Spicy MM Comedy-Horror Romance by Bjorn Wilde
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.5
The hottest volume of the four. We reach the conclusion of this story with a bit of a twist as loose ends (ha) are tied together. The last volume felt a bit short however.
Scared Stiff, Part 3: A Spicy MM Comedy-Horror-Romance by Bjorn Wilde
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
As the boys have a hard time keeping their promise, the heat and feelings towards eachother are started to intertwine. With Levi visiting lumberjack Henry's horror cabin and the other boys "pretending" to have sex. With all the risks that it may bring. The possible killer seemingly getting closer and closer to strike, it will only be a matter of time before the first murder will happen. Or will it not?
Scared Stiff, Part 2: A Spicy MM Comedy-Horror Romance by Bjorn Wilde
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.75
We really crank up the heat in the second volume of this series ans dickmatized is my new favorite word. Volume two brings a nice mix of a lot of spice, humor and some horror aspects. The bros are in quite some trouble.