Release Review: Tackling The Subject by John Keys

GoodReads ~ Pride Publishing ~ Amazon

Blurb:

Sam struggles with issues from high school, and his biology tutor triggers them all. Gordy isn't sure he wants to deal with the trouble Sam represents.

Sam Doherty, a twenty-two-year-old Computer Science major is struggling to pass the required classes in biology. While Sam is out and proud, he's secretly dealing with an assault he suffered in high school. Sam may be the president of the campus Gay-Straight Alliance, but he's struggling to find balance in his life. When he realizes he needs help with his class, he signs up for a biology tutor, but the guy who arrives for their meeting sets off all his triggers.

Gordy Hager is a biology whiz kid, the best tutor at the University Help Center—and the star tackle on the football team. Sam despises him at first sight. Gordy is the brainless caveman athlete that Sam still has nightmares about. Unable to control his reactions, he drives Gordy away and makes it plain he will never ask for his help. One week and a failed quiz later, Sam knows he has to swallow his pride and get help.

But while Gordy might be a nice guy, he isn't going to help someone as insulting as Sam. Sam's determination pays off, and he gets Gordy’s assistance, but his grades are only the first pothole their relationship hits. From their discovery that they both are gay to supporting each other against family, their connection has more than its share of issues. But when their worst fears come to fruition, they struggle with a way to save Gordy's college football career and face Sam's issues of intimacy.

3.5 Stars

This blurb sounded so good and I couldn't wait to dig in, in fact, I made my co-blogger, Mari, chase down the publisher to ask for the book, but the book was just okay.

I loved Gourdy to death, but I wanted to strangle Sam at times. He could be erratic and unreasonable, especially in the beginning. I understand his fears, but they were unfounded when it came to Gourdy and really if you think every jock is bad, doesn't that make you prejudiced as well? But once I understood Sam's past and he opened up to Gourdy about it, he was a much more likable character.

I really loved how patient and caring Gourdy was when it came to Sam's fears. He was amazing, sweet and swoon worthy! He took his time and he always let Sam have as much space and time as he needed. I'll be honest, I'm not a fan of closeted characters, but Gourdy really had good reasons for being closeted and the reactions to his outing made those reasons even more valid.

The story has great bones, but it really needed to be tightened up. It was too long and it dragged in places, but still, it's well-written and was enjoyable. Recommendable!