Reviewed by Cinnamon
TITLE: Family Man
AUTHOR: Heidi Cullinan and Marie Sexton
PUBLISHER: Dreamspinner Press
LENGTH: 206 pages
RELEASE DATE: September 11, 2017
BLURB:
Sometimes family chooses you.
At forty, Vincent “Vinnie” Fierro is still afraid to admit he might be gay—even to himself. It’ll be a problem for his big, fat Italian family. Still, after three failed marriages, it’s getting harder to ignore what he really wants.
Vinnie attempts some self-exploration in Chicago’s Boystown bars, far from anyone who knows him. Naturally, he runs smack into someone from the neighborhood.
Between working two jobs, going to school, taking care of his grandmother, and dealing with his mother’s ongoing substance abuse, Trey Giles has little time for fun, let alone dating someone who swears he’s straight. Yet after one night of dancing cheek-to-cheek, Trey agrees to let Vinnie court him and see if he truly belongs on this side of the fence—though Trey intends to keep his virginity intact.
It seems like a solid plan, but nothing is simple when family is involved. When Vinnie’s family finds out about their relationship, the situation is sticky enough, but when Trey’s mother goes critical, Vinnie and Trey must decide whose happiness is most important—their families’ or their own.
REVIEW:
Family Man is a re-release of a wonderful story written by two amazing storytellers. Heidi Cullinan and Marie Sexton are personal favorites of mine and I enjoyed this story the first time around but as it was years ago I was looking forward to seeing how my taste changed. Not much I would say. I really liked rereading the book and got to enjoy the great feels and the fantastic connection building between Trey and Vince. My heart got the expected workout real nice as well as the tears and the warm and fuzzies all over again.
The different POVs took me by surprise that’s for sure. I either forgot about it or didn’t pay attention to it back then, but it got me frustrated a bit this time. Vince has a third person POV while Trey got a first person one. It took a little getting used to and was weird for a bit. I can think of a few explanations but I leave it for you to decide.
The writing is flawless with a gripping style and as soon as I accepted the double perspectives I got into the plot wholeheartedly.
Both MCs have their journey paved with some serious baggage but helping each other on the way was just essential part of their connection.
Vince self-discovery and acceptance is beautifully written with its ups and downs, with all the insecurities and self-doubt. Trey’s family situation is truly heartbreaking and emotionally charging. These two guys are so perfect for each other that they will make your heart fill with all the amazing feels. Their sexual discovery is well paced, both very sensual and emotional. Their love is palpable and real with wonderfully written scenes and memorable moments.
What makes this book extra special is the portrayal of the big Italian family, which is entertaining, fun and makes you wish you were part of one as well.
If you enjoy stories with true love, more mature characters, late coming out and a bit of family drama, this is a great read for you. Enjoy.
RATING: 
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