1) Liv Rancourt's dedication to a true historical narrative is so evident here. Her characters are so authentic. The 1950s must have been a difficult time to be gay, yet she doesn't go for the easy angst. These guys want something more. They know there is an easy way out, but they're willing to risk the fallacy of a normal life to reach for something better. That positive note was sorely needed against what could have been, and I was glad the author focused on that.
2) This 1950's historical had a great atmosphere of the era, and the main characters felt realistic for the time and place in which they lived. The romance started fast, but faced some plausible obstacles. I loved Skip from the start, and came to appreciate Russell over the span of the story.
3) Unique setting, sympathetic characters, and difficult situations make for a page-turning male-male romance set in the 1950’s. Very enjoyable!
4) I think this is the best book I’ve read this year. It had the right mixture of tenderness and angst, rawness and loving.
Gay - Historical Romance
Paperback: 262 pages
Publisher: Liv Rancourt; 1 edition (May 12, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0998582239
ISBN-13: 978-0998582238
Amazon: Aqua Follies Liv Rancourt
The 1950s. Postwar exuberance. Conformity. Rock and roll.
Homophobia.
Russell tells himself he'll marry Susie because it's the right thing to do. His summer job coaching her water ballet team will give him plenty of opportunity to give her a ring. But on the team's trip to the annual Aqua Follies, the joyful glide of a trumpet player's solo hits Russell like a torpedo, blowing apart his carefully constructed plans.
From the orchestra pit, Skip watches Poseidon's younger brother stalk along the pool deck. It never hurts to smile at a man, because good things might happen. Once the last note has been played, Skip gives it a shot.
The tenuous connection forged by a simple smile leads to events that dismantle both their lives. Has the damage been done, or can they pick up the pieces together?
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