Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Closeted college dropout Milo Lionetti embarks on a journey of forgiveness, redemption, and self-discovery in Albert's cute second True Colors romance (after Conventionally Yours). After jock Milo gambles away his brother's ultra-rare trading cards for the fictional game Odyssey without realizing how valuable they are, he begs his estranged childhood best friend, nerdy Jasper Quigley, for help finding replacements. Jasper, who's still hurt by the way Milo pulled away from their friendship after Jasper came out as gay in high school, reluctantly agrees only if Milo fills a vacant role in Jasper's cosplay group during their charity work at the local children's hospital. The drawn out hunt for the cards brings the pair to an Odyssey tournament, where Milo emotionally comes out as gay after he and Jasper kiss for the first time. As they spend more time together, Jasper must decide if he's ready to forgive Milo's past mistakes, and Milo must find the courage to move into a more authentic future as an openly gay artist. Milo's arc is far more nuanced and developed than that of Jasper, whose characterization is somewhat bland, but the slice-of-life plot and sweet, supportive romance that develops between them will have broad appeal. This is sure to please. Agent: Deidre Knight, the Knight Agency (July)
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Review by Library Journal Review
After Milo Lionetti loses his brother's costly game cards in a wager, he turns to the only gamer he knows, Jasper Quigley, a former best friend he discarded in high school. The last person Jasper expects to see is Milo, who allowed his high school buddies to bully Jasper years ago. Jasper will only help Milo get the cards back on the condition he cosplay a popular game figure for the local children's hospital. Milo hates looking like a fool in front of others but grudgingly agrees. Over time, Milo learns to stop hiding who he really is from his family and friends, and Jasper learns why Milo let him down in the past and why he can trust that Milo won't let him down in the future. VERDICT The romance builds gradually, since Jasper must overcome his distrust of Milo, but Milo's growth as a character and his and Jasper's earnest romance is worth the wait. Characters and events from Conventionally Yours, the first in the "True Colors" series, are sprinkled throughout, so readers may want to start at the beginning.--Eve Stano, Ball State Univ. Muncie, IN
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