The Burnt Toast B&B by Heidi Belleau & Rachel Haimowitz

The Burnt Toast B&B by Heidi Belleau & Rachel Haimowitz

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Soooooo I have to start out by admitting that this is the first book I’ve ever read in which one of the main characters was transgendered. And while there was no mention of it in the book’s synopsis, the fact is that with The Burnt Toast B&B being a part of the Bluewater Bay series it wouldn’t have deterred me from reading it. To be honest, I’m kind of glad I didn’t know because I feel like it enabled me to experience Derrick’s stunned reaction when Ginsberg makes the revelation – and just like Derrick, the stunned silence was not due to an “Eww that’s gross” response, but rather a “Dude, I did NOT see that coming!” reaction. But much like Ginsberg, I expected a far different response from Derrick and was just as shocked with the lack of judgment that Derrick showed.

One of the things I enjoy about the Bluewater Bay series is that the books seem intent on showing that love is love and things like age differences, race, gender, and socioeconomic status shouldn’t stand in the way – that nothing should effect who you love as long as you love that person fully. The Burnt Toast B&B demonstrates this perfectly. It also does an excellent job of demonstrating how one’s self-doubt, self-recriminations, and internalized stereotypes can destroy a relationship and a person’s happiness. Not only does Derrick have to admit that he loves Ginsberg, he also has to learn how to let go of his old-fashioned gender role biases and how to love himself. Fortunately, Ginsberg and Jim are there to help him along the way, even when the help he needs is a good punch in the nose.

Ms. Belleau and Ms. Haimowitz have created a wonderful romance about two men who are each lovable in their own way. Thankfully Ginsberg’s outgoing and charismatic personality complements Derrick’s withdrawn and surly nature. Except for the informative and freaking hot sex scenes, I tended to forget the Ginsberg was transgendered and I suspect this is the authors’ intent because it furthers the point that love is love. Regardless, The Burnt Toast B&B is another great addition to the Bluewater Bay series and my re-read list. I do so hope that there are more books being written for this series as I have enjoyed every page I have spent in Bluewater Bay.

I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!

Check out The Burnt Toast B&B Tour Stop! blog post on Crystal's Many Reviewers.


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