John only went into the cafe to have a brew and wait out the storm. He didn’t expect to find love at the same time.And it really is love at first sight. Chris is like nobody John’s ever known, and John is caught from the start. All he wants, from that very first touch, is to never let go. But John is badly burned from his last relationship and in no fit state to try again. When Chris asks him … asks him out, he ought to say no.
But what if he says yes instead?
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Just trying to get my thoughts together, well I’m a bit speechless right now… so many emotions!
Matthew J. Metzger’s new novel, Tea is an absolutely beautiful love story. I started reading this one with no idea what it was about and where it was going to go, so I just sat back and enjoyed the ride.
John’s story is easy to fall into, and his reactions to everything that happens to him are so authentic. The way he embraces all of Chris’ issues – it just goes to show how sweet of a guy he is, as well as how desperately he wants to love someone. It broke my heart.
Every Metzger novel I’ve read has been completely unique, and Tea had just enough of the darkness that I expect in one of his books, but the feels? Wow. Watching John and Chris fall in love (and spill all their secrets) is one journey I highly recommend taking!
John is wrecked after a bad ex who was just nasty. Even though it has been awhile, John hasn’t gotten over the emotional turmoil that was caused. Anxiety, panic attacks, and overall uncertainty with his life are squarely on his doorstep. Kind of closeted-at work and in sports-he has never had to claim his sexuality. When he meets Chris, things start to change.
Chris has his own issues, it’s not all mental. His biggest obstacle is being legally blind. When he accidentally spills tea, John is helpful. Chris is entranced with the voice and wants to get to know the owner. They embark on an unusual journey of discovery. Issues they never thought would surface, do, and demand to be heard.
I liked the characters and the way they handled most of their situations -John more so than Chris. John was in therapy, but Chris was not. He could have benefited from seeing one. It was evident that he needed some professional to help him sort through his issues
I also questioned some of their sexy time, based on John’s past. I kind of questioned it, and it was not addressed, so let it go.
Both men are very complex and have their own set of issues. Do I want to continue to read about them?? I am not sure yet.
Review copy graciously provided by the publisher via NetGalley. The rating and review are my opinion.
5 stars
Heat Level: 4
Wow, just wow!! An amazing and compelling story of chance, trust, love, and hope! I couldn’t put it down!
Honestly, the cover of this book appealed to me (I love tea!) but once I read the blurb I was intrigued, little did I know I’d be drawn into a story that was not what it seems and would break my heart, only to put it back together in the best way!
This is my first book from this author and my first book featuring a transgender main character and it was amazing! The story follows a wonderful meet-cute of two polar opposite characters and explores their lives, pasts, hopes, and personal demons as they navigate their way to a new relationship together. I loved John! He is a wonderfully real character that stole my heart. His personal demons were confronting at times and all I wanted to do was give him a giant hug and tell him it’ll be okay! I felt for John as he faced his demons and loved Chris’s sense of humor and his spark as he encourages John and discovers more about himself as they progress in their relationship. Chris was not what I expected after the meet-cute but was so much better! He had so much vitality in spite of all his challenges, a wonderful sarcastic streak and such sass and humor I was laughing out loud!
Matthew writing felt so raw and real to me. I think it’s a testament to his talent that he has created two characters that have so much depth and desire that they have the ability to help heal each other. John and Chris are such exemplary characters that will honestly hold a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to see where they go next!
A highly recommended read that has the ability to surprise you, make you cry, laugh and hope along with the characters and feel their connection continue beyond the last words on the page!
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