Listen free for 30 days
-
Tell Me It's Real
- Narrated by: Michael Lesley
- Series: At First Sight Series, Book 1
- Length: 10 hrs and 24 mins
- Unabridged Audiobook
- Categories: LGBTQ+, Literature & Fiction
Add to basket failed.
Add to wishlist failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
Listen with a free trial
Buy Now for £22.89
No valid payment method on file.
We are sorry. We are not allowed to sell this product with the selected payment method
Listeners also enjoyed...
-
The Queen & the Homo Jock King
- At First Sight
- By: TJ Klune
- Narrated by: Michael Lesley
- Length: 17 hrs and 5 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Do you believe in love at first sight? Sanford Stewart sure doesn't. In fact, he pretty much believes in the exact opposite, thanks to the Homo Jock King. It seems Darren Mayne lives for nothing more than to create chaos in Sandy's perfectly ordered life, just for the hell of it. Sandy despises him, and nothing will ever change his mind. Or so he tells himself.
-
-
Loved. Loved. Loved it
- By kindleaddict on 26-09-16
-
The Lightning-Struck Heart
- By: TJ Klune
- Narrated by: Michael Lesley
- Length: 19 hrs and 49 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Once upon a time, in an alleyway in the slums of the City of Lockes, a young and somewhat lonely boy named Sam Haversford turns a group of teenage douchebags into stone completely by accident. Of course, this catches the attention of a higher power, and Sam's pulled from the only world he knows to become an apprentice to the king's wizard, Morgan of Shadows.
-
-
Utterly hilarious
- By Sarah Louise Smits on 18-01-16
-
Bear, Otter, and the Kid
- By: TJ Klune
- Narrated by: Sean Crisden
- Length: 12 hrs and 19 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Three years ago, Bear McKenna’s mother took off for parts unknown with her new boyfriend, leaving Bear to raise his six-year-old brother Tyson, aka the Kid. Somehow they’ve muddled through, but since he’s totally devoted to the Kid, Bear isn’t actually doing much living. With a few exceptions, he’s retreated from the world, and he’s mostly okay with that - until Otter comes home. Otter is Bear’s best friend’s older brother, and as they’ve done for their whole lives, Bear and Otter crash and collide in ways neither expect.
-
-
Brilliantly beautiful
- By Rebecca Woodman on 07-12-15
-
Damage Control
- North Shore Stories, Book 1
- By: Lynn Van Dorn
- Narrated by: Michael Ferraiuolo
- Length: 18 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Tyler’s worked hard to kick the dust of the Chicago suburbs off his heels and move on with his life as Hollywood’s newest up-and-comer, burying his demons and hiding his scars from the world. Just as everything seems to be going his way, a scandal from his past threatens everything he’s worked for. Now, he’s stuck back home, where his family of lawyers can maybe help sink the scandal and find out who’s behind it.
-
-
A long amazing listen
- By Erryn Barratt on 04-02-20
-
Dead Serious Case #1 Miz Dusty Le Frey
- Crawshanks Guide to the Recently Departed
- By: Vawn Cassidy
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 9 hrs and 40 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Tristan Everett has always preferred the company of the dead because they usually don't talk back. Being a somewhat awkward introvert working as a pathologist at the Hackney Public Mortuary suits him just fine. That is, until a freak accident with a rogue ice cube and suddenly he can see ghosts. No longer content to just lie on the table and let him figure out how they died, they're now peering over his shoulder critiquing his work and confessing their most lascivious sins before skipping off merrily into the afterlife.
-
-
fantastic
- By OCorkyO on 08-08-22
-
Beautifully Unexpected
- By: Lily Morton
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 7 hrs and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Magnus Carlsen is determined to grow old disgracefully. At 52, he doesn’t believe in keeping anything. Men, sofas, books—everything gets jettisoned, eventually. He’s divided his life into happy compartments. A successful trial lawyer, he spends his days lecturing jurors, exasperating judges, and striding arrogantly around courtrooms. He fills his nights with a parade of handsome young men who want to make him happy. Why date someone his own age to discuss back pain, retirement planning, and corns when he can date men who don’t care to discuss anything at all?
-
-
Fantastic
- By David Le on 11-08-22
-
The Queen & the Homo Jock King
- At First Sight
- By: TJ Klune
- Narrated by: Michael Lesley
- Length: 17 hrs and 5 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Do you believe in love at first sight? Sanford Stewart sure doesn't. In fact, he pretty much believes in the exact opposite, thanks to the Homo Jock King. It seems Darren Mayne lives for nothing more than to create chaos in Sandy's perfectly ordered life, just for the hell of it. Sandy despises him, and nothing will ever change his mind. Or so he tells himself.
-
-
Loved. Loved. Loved it
- By kindleaddict on 26-09-16
-
The Lightning-Struck Heart
- By: TJ Klune
- Narrated by: Michael Lesley
- Length: 19 hrs and 49 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Once upon a time, in an alleyway in the slums of the City of Lockes, a young and somewhat lonely boy named Sam Haversford turns a group of teenage douchebags into stone completely by accident. Of course, this catches the attention of a higher power, and Sam's pulled from the only world he knows to become an apprentice to the king's wizard, Morgan of Shadows.
-
-
Utterly hilarious
- By Sarah Louise Smits on 18-01-16
-
Bear, Otter, and the Kid
- By: TJ Klune
- Narrated by: Sean Crisden
- Length: 12 hrs and 19 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Three years ago, Bear McKenna’s mother took off for parts unknown with her new boyfriend, leaving Bear to raise his six-year-old brother Tyson, aka the Kid. Somehow they’ve muddled through, but since he’s totally devoted to the Kid, Bear isn’t actually doing much living. With a few exceptions, he’s retreated from the world, and he’s mostly okay with that - until Otter comes home. Otter is Bear’s best friend’s older brother, and as they’ve done for their whole lives, Bear and Otter crash and collide in ways neither expect.
-
-
Brilliantly beautiful
- By Rebecca Woodman on 07-12-15
-
Damage Control
- North Shore Stories, Book 1
- By: Lynn Van Dorn
- Narrated by: Michael Ferraiuolo
- Length: 18 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Tyler’s worked hard to kick the dust of the Chicago suburbs off his heels and move on with his life as Hollywood’s newest up-and-comer, burying his demons and hiding his scars from the world. Just as everything seems to be going his way, a scandal from his past threatens everything he’s worked for. Now, he’s stuck back home, where his family of lawyers can maybe help sink the scandal and find out who’s behind it.
-
-
A long amazing listen
- By Erryn Barratt on 04-02-20
-
Dead Serious Case #1 Miz Dusty Le Frey
- Crawshanks Guide to the Recently Departed
- By: Vawn Cassidy
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 9 hrs and 40 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Tristan Everett has always preferred the company of the dead because they usually don't talk back. Being a somewhat awkward introvert working as a pathologist at the Hackney Public Mortuary suits him just fine. That is, until a freak accident with a rogue ice cube and suddenly he can see ghosts. No longer content to just lie on the table and let him figure out how they died, they're now peering over his shoulder critiquing his work and confessing their most lascivious sins before skipping off merrily into the afterlife.
-
-
fantastic
- By OCorkyO on 08-08-22
-
Beautifully Unexpected
- By: Lily Morton
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 7 hrs and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Magnus Carlsen is determined to grow old disgracefully. At 52, he doesn’t believe in keeping anything. Men, sofas, books—everything gets jettisoned, eventually. He’s divided his life into happy compartments. A successful trial lawyer, he spends his days lecturing jurors, exasperating judges, and striding arrogantly around courtrooms. He fills his nights with a parade of handsome young men who want to make him happy. Why date someone his own age to discuss back pain, retirement planning, and corns when he can date men who don’t care to discuss anything at all?
-
-
Fantastic
- By David Le on 11-08-22
-
Wolfsong
- By: TJ Klune
- Narrated by: Kirt Graves
- Length: 18 hrs and 40 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Ox was 23 when murder came to town and tore a hole in his head and heart. The boy chased after the monster with revenge in his blood red eyes, leaving Ox behind to pick up the pieces. It's been three years since that fateful day and the boy is back. Except now he's a man, and Ox can no longer ignore the song that howls between them.
-
-
The worst book I ever listened too
- By Anonymous User on 16-07-20
-
How to Be a Normal Person
- By: TJ Klune
- Narrated by: Derrick McClain
- Length: 11 hrs and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Gustavo Tiberius is not normal. He knows this. Everyone in his small town of Abby, Oregon, knows this. He reads encyclopedias every night before bed. He has a pet ferret called Harry S. Truman. He owns a video rental store that no one goes to. His closest friends are a lady named Lottie with drag queen hair and a trio of elderly Vespa riders known as the We Three Queens.
-
-
Wonderful
- By Kallie Harris on 10-03-17
-
Ghost of Lies
- Medium Trouble, Book 1
- By: Alice Winters
- Narrated by: Greg Boudreaux
- Length: 11 hrs and 22 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Though I was born with the ability to see the dead, I struggled with it until my brother was killed and his ghost was left behind. Now, I’m determined to figure out who is responsible for his death…the problem is that Detective Maddox Booker, the one working the case, is a grumpy and stubborn man who wants nothing to do with me and definitely doesn’t believe in ghosts. It doesn’t help that I keep finding myself looking ridiculous in front of the detective, thanks to interfering ghosts who enjoy laughing at my expense.
-
-
Annoying ghosts
- By Drdzim on 07-06-22
-
Wormwood Summer
- San Amaro Investigations, Book 1
- By: Kai Butler
- Narrated by: Greg Tremblay
- Length: 10 hrs and 59 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When the Summer Queen summons Parker to her court, the private investigator knows there’s trouble brewing. Trapped into compliance by his past debt, he’s tasked with locating a missing girl in San Amaro. Now he has to find the girl or give up his life. Things only get more complicated when a very familiar cop asks Parker for his help on a case involving murdered magic users. With the victims completely drained of their magic, the San Amaro Police Department needs Parker’s special skill set to track down a killer.
-
-
loved it :)
- By hannah mc on 11-03-22
-
Pine Cove: The Complete Series
- By: HJ Welch
- Narrated by: Nick J. Russo
- Length: 59 hrs and 26 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Welcome to Pine Cove, where true love lives happily ever after! This box set contains all six novels as well as all five companion short stories. Safe Harbor: Robin Coal needs a fake boyfriend for his high school reunion. He asks his housemate: A gorgeous, totally straight ex-Marine. What could go wrong? There’s only one bed, and Dair might not be so straight after all...When Robin’s past threatens their future, only Dair can save him.
-
The Right Way
- By: Katie Ashley
- Narrated by: Kelsey Navarro, Tim Paige
- Length: 7 hrs and 43 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
After witnessing his younger brother's death in a tragic accident, Jonathan Nelson desperately tries losing himself on the gridiron. No matter how hard he tries keeping his head above water, he's drowning in a sea of grief. Compounding his inability to get his head on straight is Presley - the girl who had a complicated relationship with his brother, Jake, and who is pregnant with Jake's child. At first, Jonathan only harbors resentment and animosity to Presley when she moves in with his parents. But the more the two are thrown together, the more his feelings for her begin to change.
-
On the Ropes Series
- By: Aly Martinez
- Narrated by: Laura Jennings, Carson Beck
- Length: 25 hrs and 15 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The complete series. Three full-length novels. Fighting Silence, Fighting Shadows, and Fighting Solitude. For the Page brothers, fighting was a way of life. Both inside and outside of the ring. Follow them through hardship, disability, and overwhelming adversity as they fight for the women they love.
-
Reunion
- The Oleander Chronicles, Book 1
- By: Lynn Van Dorn
- Narrated by: Michael Ferraiuolo
- Length: 11 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The day Brett Payne turned 18, he attended a party that left him disillusioned, his trust shattered, and feeling betrayed by Tony Russo, his first love. Nearly 15 years later, Brett returns to his hometown of Oleander, Florida, to help his mother, who’s in the hospital. When chance brings Brett and Tony back together, it turns out that while sex isn’t off the table (or the floor, or the shower, or the countertops), Brett isn't sure he can truly trust the man who broke his heart.
-
-
Enjoy
- By Amazon Customer on 10-03-21
-
Unraveling the Threads of Fate
- By: Alice Winters
- Narrated by: Michael Ferraiuolo
- Length: 10 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Some people are born lucky. Then there’s me, destined to be loved by the man who knows my darkest secret. My gift has followed me my entire life—the ability to see the threads of fate. I can see the red thread tying together two people destined to love one another. But my gift has another side to it. A darker side. I can also see a simple black thread tied to the fingers of those who aren’t aware of it, connecting them to the person destined to kill them. And when I look down at my own finger, I can see the red thread stretched over to Bishop King.
-
-
definitely a good, enjoyable book
- By Anonymous User on 22-07-22
-
The Hourglass Throne
- The Tarot Sequence, Book 3
- By: K. D. Edwards
- Narrated by: Josh Hurley
- Length: 14 hrs and 19 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
As Rune Saint John grapples with the challenges of assuming the Sun Throne, a powerful barrier appears around New Atlantis’ famed rejuvenation center. But who could have created such formidable magic...what do they want from the immortality clinic...and what remains of the dozens trapped inside? Now, the rulers of New Atlantis must confront an enemy both new and ancient as the flow of time itself is drawn into the conflict. And as Rune finds himself drawn back to the fall of his father’s court and his own torture, the secrets that he has guarded will be dragged into the light.
-
-
TRIGGER WARNING
- By Gemma on 27-07-22
-
The Former Assassin's Guide to Snagging a Reluctant Boyfriend
- By: Alice Winters
- Narrated by: Michael Ferraiuolo
- Length: 10 hrs
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When I gave up life as a hitman, I thought everything was going to be better. I was going to become a PI, help people, and live normally…and then I met Jeremy, the most perfect man to have ever saved my life (I mean, he might be the only one who has saved my life, but he’s still the best at it). From that point on, it was all over for me - I knew we were meant to be. The issue is that he doesn’t…quite seem to realize that. But when he’s targeted by criminals (literally, someone just shot at his head), he needs to rely on someone, so why not me?
-
-
Enjoyable Story
- By Mrs. E. J. Curtis on 13-05-22
-
Boyfriend Material
- By: Alexis Hall
- Narrated by: Joe Jameson
- Length: 13 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Luc O'Donnell is tangentially - and reluctantly - famous. His rock-star parents split when he was young, and the father he's never met spent the next 20 years cruising in and out of rehab. Now that his dad's making a comeback, Luc's back in the public eye, and one compromising photo is enough to ruin everything. To clean up his image, Luc has to find a nice normal relationship...and Oliver Blackwood is as nice and normal as they come. He's a barrister, an ethical vegetarian, and someone who has never inspired a moment of scandal in his life. He’s perfect boyfriend material.
-
-
Pompous, middle class and not at all engaging
- By Amazon Customer on 18-04-21
Summary
Do you believe in love at first sight?
Paul Auster doesn't. Paul doesn't believe in much at all. He's thirty, slightly overweight, and his best features are his acerbic wit and the color commentary he provides as life passes him by. His closest friends are a two-legged dog named Wheels and a quasibipolar drag queen named Helena Handbasket. He works a dead-end job in a soul-sucking cubicle, and if his grandmother's homophobic parrot insults him one more time, Paul is going to wring its stupid neck.
Enter Vince Taylor.
Vince is everything Paul isn't: Sexy, confident, and dumber than the proverbial box of rocks. And for some reason, Vince pursues Paul relentlessly. Vince must be messing with him, because there is no way Vince could want someone like Paul.
But when Paul hits Vince with his car - in a completely unintentional if-he-died-it'd-only-be-manslaughter kind of way - he's forced to see Vince in a whole new light. The only thing stopping Paul from believing in Vince is himself - and that is one obstacle Paul can't quite seem to overcome. But when tragedy strikes Vince's family, Paul must put aside any notions he has about himself and stand next to the man who thinks he's perfect the way he is.
More from the same
What listeners say about Tell Me It's Real
Average customer ratingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Andy
- 19-08-14
Laugh-out-loud funny, frustrating, heart-warming
Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?
If it's the right sort of friend!! This book is not for everyone - some reviewers elsewhere have been slightly offended by some of the topics, and the language is not for the faint-hearted, or people who cannot easily comprehend high-speed speech, but listen to the preview and you will have a pretty good idea of what type of book you've selected. I really enjoyed it. It is very amusing in places - dangerous when you are listening in the car! The characters are well-defined, possibly a bit over-the-top, but real enough that you can feel what they are feeling themselves and with each other - especially when you really want to slap them and tell them what they are doing wrong! There are some really touching moments, and it left me with a nice warm feeling inside.
What was one of the most memorable moments of Tell Me It's Real?
There are too many to mention really. Paul and Vince's first real meeting (rather than encounter), and the funeral are particular high-points for me, but there are very few dull moments in this story.
Which character – as performed by Michael Lesley – was your favourite?
Difficult to pick one. I especially liked Paul's father, who shouts "Language!" whenever somebody crosses his profanity threshold. The way in which Michael Lesley makes the two alter egos of Sandy and Helena different and yet the same is very impressive. Paul is a bit of a whiner but the incredibly fast rate at which he speaks was very well performed. I have even found myself reading things on my PC with the Paul style of delivery in my head!
If you made a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?
Love at first sight can happen - it is real.
Any additional comments?
T.J. Klune has a marvellous way with words, and with completely conveying the characters just by what they say. The narrator in this book definitely helped that become even more apparent, and both of them are to be congratulated.
There are one or two mis-speakings in the narration, but that is more than acceptable considering the rapid rate of delivery - you might even need to use the "play slower" function for this book! One phrase is repeated - presumably a re-take that didn't get edited out of the recording - but these are minor complaints. Overall I loved this book and will miss it now it has finished.
6 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Jackie Thorogood
- 14-07-17
Very funny
Would you consider the audio edition of Tell Me It's Real to be better than the print version?
Yes really a great listening, Much better than the book, I got into this book very easily, one of the most enjoyable books I've listened too.
What was one of the most memorable moments of Tell Me It's Real?
The Parents remembering the past. They don't understand discretion, also thinking that Paul Played the pony in his and Vince's relationship. Some many to tell.
What does Michael Lesley bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?
Michael Lesley, really bought out the humor, his characters voices was outstanding. He done a brilliant job.
Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
Laughter almost all the way, there was some intense scenes, but mostly funny. Without being over the top.
Any additional comments?
I loved this book, as I read a lot I did get use to different words that we use in the UK, but easy to understand. This is the first book I have listen to by TJ Klune, it will not be my last. Highly recommend.
3 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- C. Fern
- 30-09-16
Amazing - Highly recommended
Michael Lesley is simply amazing as a narrator. The story dragged in parts as the main character's train of thought got derailed quite easily, but it added charm to the book itself.
It had moments that made me laugh out loud, choke and squirt coffee out of my nose, and parts that made it really difficult to read this in public due to the unladylike guphaws. But there were also moments that broke my heart and it was in these final parts of the book where the narrator really shone with his voice drenched in motion.
Will definitely listen to this again!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Love listening
- 22-09-16
Fantastic characters and not the usual mainstream
Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?
It is so nice and refreshing to read about characters that are different, Paul is slightly overweight and selfconscious about his size. He can't believe that someone like Vince would want him for a boyfriend. Sandy/Helena is a great supporting character and a great friend/brother to Paul. Vince on the otherhand has also being used in his past for how he looks and for not the person who he is. The supporting characters were great my favourite was Sandy/Helena. Paul's family were fantastic if not a little crazy. I would definitely recommend this book and also the second one The Queen & The Homo Jock King. You will laugh out loud, the narrator did a fantastic job with all the characters.
What other book might you compare Tell Me It's Real to, and why?
The Queen & The Homo Jock King, the sequel to tell me it's real
What about Michael Lesley’s performance did you like?
Absolutely fantastic the different voices he used for the characters was a great performance.
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- kindleaddict
- 16-05-15
Brilliant
If you could sum up Tell Me It's Real in three words, what would they be?
Hilarious, touching, frantic.
What did you like best about this story?
The none stop energy. The humour. The frenetic use of words. The secondary characters are equally full of life. Johnny Depp. Paul and Vince.
What about Michael Lesley’s performance did you like?
Michael Lesley's Paul is inspired, but his portrayal of all the characters are acted so very well, it's addictive listening.
Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?
I would have definitely listened to this in one sitting, had I had that amount of time to myself.
Any additional comments?
I'm eagerly awaiting Sandy's tale, and getting back to chaotic world of Paul and Vince.
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Dave
- 21-03-15
Well impressed with the book
Really good book. Was not expecting much from it as I bought it in a whim but had me laughing out loud all the way through. Got me some weird looks as a walked around cackling to myself like a mad man. Hilarious sad witty. Very good book not the usual gay romance book which don't float my boat. Loved it!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Kallie Harris
- 13-01-15
Well worth a listen
If you could sum up Tell Me It's Real in three words, what would they be?
Funny, lively, engaging
If you’ve listened to books by TJ Klune before, how does this one compare?
This is my first listen.
Have you listened to any of Michael Lesley’s other performances? How does this one compare?
This is my first listen.
Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
It made me laugh out loud on more than one occasion and I found myself structuring my work day so that I could work on stuff that also enabled me to listen to more of the book as I worked.
Any additional comments?
The production isn't as perfect as some books I've bought - there's a couple of instances of repeated lines that were missed in the editing process and the dead time between scene or chapter changes were way too long - but this is definitely one of the most talented narrators I've ever listened too. Even though his Vince voice drops a little too low in register at times to be easily understandable as he switches between characters the narrator reads with ease and confidence that makes the whole book a delight from beginning to end. It was my first time with this author as well and, like the recording, the story itself could have done with an intense edit before final release, but on the whole it was well told, funny and I would consider buying something else from the author again. I am hopeful that a sequel featuring Sandy/Helena and Darren is in the works as I would love to read/hear their story and if the same narrator is used then I would definitely buy it as, for me, he was what made the whole story take off. I think that I might have given up on the book if I'd read it in the written format but in audio I really enjoyed it and will probably listen to it again more than once.
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Amazon Customer
- 15-09-21
Highly Recommend
Fucking hilarious, but also angsty as hell in some parts. genuinely one of the best gay romances I've ever read. Narration by Michael Lesley was spot on, and I'm so glad he did the rest of the books as well. Looking forward to continuing this series.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Amazon Customer
- 30-01-21
Loved it
Loved it. Laughed out loud a lot, nearly cried a couple times, well read (I can get really picky about that), great characters, great writing
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Kindle Customer
- 01-07-20
Love it.
This is a love story but not just a romantic story. It's about family, friendship and everything in between. This book will make you laugh ,blush, cringe and cry but above all it will make you happy 🤍
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Kindle Customer
- 08-07-14
Don't read on a plane!
Would you consider the audio edition of Tell Me It's Real to be better than the print version?
That is a toss up. Having read everything T.J. has written, I feel like I can hear his voice in my head, but saying that, he has wonderful narrators for his books.
What other book might you compare Tell Me It's Real to and why?
There is no other book to compare to the banter and diatribes that go on in this book, nothing like it....
Which scene was your favorite?
Hard to choose, the hippo scene, the love scene, the johnny depp scene, the GPS scene, bike store.... on and on and on.
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
The story about Sandy when they were in high school and he finds out his parents have been killed, and the scene where Paul tells of his father, and maybe the scene where Paul speaks to his mother, too many to count
Any additional comments?
Get this audio, book and audio, worth every penny. Just make sure you are not listening to this where it is not okay to bust out laughing at anytime, because you will, there is no stopping you!!! It will come out as a Snort, a gasp of laughing, hee hawing, it will not be pretty :0
23 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Donald
- 21-09-14
An Outstanding Story...
I am a huge fan on TJ Klune, basically because he knows how to tell a story in such a way that every emotion is reached and the narration by Michael Lesley was beyond reproach. The vocal inflections were phenomenal and his voice brought each character to life in my mind. Initially, I was afraid that the protagonist was going to annoy me...but I laughed so hard, so many times...OUT LOUD...that people thought I was weird (which I am, but that's alright). Began the book on the treadmill and I seriously fell off the daw-gone thing from laughing so hard...a few of my favorites...the entire book...although a special tribute to the menstruating ghost and Johnny Depp...a definite must read!!!
16 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Kim
- 03-09-14
Get ready for the tears of both joy and sadness
Cutting my review into two parts: first one's for the story/plot, the second's for the audiobook.
STORY RATING: 4
If you're feeling down, riddled with insecurities so much that you don't believe that someday your prince/princess will come, one who'll Freddie Prinze, Jr. you SO HARD (and in a good way, mind), and you think that you're nothing and you want to celebrate that fact by stuffing your face with a beef burrito while wrapping yourself up in a blanket burrito, this book is for you. On the other hand, if you want to read a book with a badass, awesome drag queen who won't take any of your BS and can rule fabulously over the world, and a lovely dog in his very own wheelchair, and you really, really wanted to be proven right that long-term relationships brought about by love at first sight aren't feasible, then I'm sorry, sister, this book ain't right for you. NOT. Seriously, just read this if you're in it for the laughter and tears, and you want to feel good about yourself. A few warnings though: the book (especially if the audiobook) may take up a lot of your time so you better not have something important else to do
because it's hard to do anything else once you've already started this. Trust me, I wanted to blow up RL so hard due to the interruptions it kept giving me. Please also keep in mind that the book is laden with swearing and a whole lot of bitchiness, so if you can't stomach these things, then uhm, do tread lightly.
The blurb says it all. Ordinary guy caught hot guy's attention, hot guy pursued ordinary guy, ordinary guy thought it's just a fluke but still fell in love with hot guy nonetheless. Hot guy's trying to convince ordinary guy that he's very much sincere, then ordinary guy's trying to fend off his feelings because he think's he's not good enough, and got reprimanded by his badass best friend and awesome family because of it. Then when ordinary guy finally got into a reluctant relationship with hot guy, BAM, a tragedy happened and ordinary guy had to conquer his fears in order to support hot guy. I am aware that my own summary sucks and it doesn't do these boys right by just calling them "ordinary" and "hot" when they're not just that, not really.
As I keep remembering this story, a quote entered my mind: "You get the love you think you deserve." And that pretty much says it all. Like Paul (and Vince), we get the feeling that we're not good enough to be loved--being told that we are loved no matter what we are is good and helpful but accepting that love is hard especially when you think you're nothing. So loving (and accepting) yourself first is the key in order to accept the love from others and love those people in return. I think the book served as a good reminder about this, and for that I truly am grateful that I came across this.
One more thing I liked about this book is how grief was portrayed. It wasn't overly dramatic, yet the feelings portrayed were raw, heavy, painful yet slightly optimistic. It felt realistic, so much so it made me remember how it felt when I lost a family member. It also emphasized the importance of a support group, of having people who can anchor you and make you find strength inside you.
Though I sympathized with Paul think we had a lot in common, I don't like him that much, partly because I can see myself in him (his internal monologue of him not being good enough? my monologue too). I loved his humor, how he can think of the most absurd things that really made sense to me, how he splutters (like I do all the time Oh God), his clumsiness (let me tell you someday about the bruises I get just by riding a bus or by simply existing). I love his worst-case scenarios (boy sure must be proud of his imagination). I can also relate with his shyness and his self-loathing. However, what I don't like is him calling his bouts of drama/sentiment/mushiness as having a vagina (a gaping one at that). That really bothered me while I was reading/listening especially since the women all around him (including Helena and the sassy Black nurse) are way more badass than him. That's really the reason I can't give this a five-star no matter how much my vagina and I liked the story. Blaming God at every single mishap didn't help either, but since I enjoyed everything else I can tolerate/slightly overlook these bits.
One more thing that I'd contest is that Vince isn't dumb! I was expecting that his character would be like Doug in The Epic Love Story of Doug and Stephen, and Vince isn't like that, really. To tell you the truth, the guys I know are pretty much like Vince. What I get from Vince's character is that he has his own set of priorities, a very different and refreshing mindset. Not knowing Asia is a continent and that thing you do to stop a person from choking is called Heimlich maneuver don't automatically make you dumb, methinks.
Moreover, I think what I would like more is a book about Sandy and Helena Handbasket. (S)he is such an interesting character, and Paul would surely be lost without him. I'd love it if I can see things from his perspective, and I am eager to see the interaction between him and his love interest.
Overall, this was way better than Bear, Otter and Kid for Me, and I am amazed at the difference of TJ Klune's writing between these two books.
AUDIOBOOK RATING: 4.5
This is the first audiobook I've ever listened to (if you don't consider podfics), especially one with a male narrator. And after listening to this, it made me realize two things: 1) I truly am a visual person. I love to read and listen to the book at the same time, and 2) Being a narrator of an audiobook is fucking hard! Especially if you have to do lots of voices.
Honestly, I was kinda weirded out during the first few moments because I imagined Paul's voice being a bit lower/gruffier, but that did not keep me from laughing (and crying) so hard at some scenes which means that he's truly an effective narrator. He has a clear and crisp enunciation of words, though he speaks a bit fast for my taste that it took me a couple of paragraphs to get his rhythm. But once I got past all of that, I enjoyed listening to this; I loved his other voices, especially Johnny Depp's! There were also sometimes that I was distracted and am not really that listening (this is why I need visuals sometimes) but because of his tone and delivery, I knew what Paul is feeling at the moment, which is really, truly helpful.
So yeah, I can say that Michael Lesley, is a lovely narrator and I would be happy to listen to his other works.
10 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Rayne
- 28-08-14
Laugh out loud funny!
What did you love best about Tell Me It's Real?
** I received this audiobook free for review from the narrator through the DBML (Don't Buy My Love) program in the M/M Romance Group on Goodreads.**
Let me start by saying that I had no idea that these were characters that I had read about before! Yes I was bursting with excitement when I figured out they were familiar characters. Paul and Vince are also in The Art of Breathing (Bear, Otter and the Kid #3) by T.J Klune
This is certainly not an audiobook that you want to be listening to with anyone else around you. Not just because of the content but because I guarantee you will be laughing out loud and heaven help you if you should be drinking while something funny happens! Yes I am speaking from experience here , drinking coffee while listening to this book was so not a good idea.
T.J Klune is an author that does not disappoint his readers. It was no surprise to me that I loved Paul an Vince's story. They are definitely opposites and they surely attracted. Vince and Paul both made some mistakes along the way but their story is oh so enjoyable, it is not one you will want to miss.
Michael Lesley is the narrator of this fantastic audiobook, and let me tell you he did an excellent job. I have listened to books that were totally awful for me, not because of the story line, but because of the narration. If a narrator just doesn't connect with the story it will throw the whole thing off. That being said Michael Lesley nailed this one! The inflection was amazing and he uses different tones for each character so there is no doubt who is speaking. I certainly hope he does many many more in the future as I would just snatch them up!
6 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Belen
- 13-05-17
Love this book!
Do you know how hard it is for me to give a 5 star rating? It's really hard. Seriously. I read over 300 books a year. And maybe, 10? Maybe might get a 5 star rating.
This book delivers! On all fronts. Funny, fun, sexy, awesomeness.
I honestly don't know how someone might not love this book. And, if you don't, I don't want to know you. Because you're probably evil.
Like, evil.
And Michael Lesley's narration for this is simply wonderful! He delivers such an awesome performance and makes a fantastic book even better. Love, love, love this!! ❤
5 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Pete
- 19-07-14
Best read ever!
Would you listen to Tell Me It's Real again? Why?
A Truly fun emotional roller-coaster, you'll laugh and cry. this is a heartwarming story of true love, the kind we all yearn for.
What was one of the most memorable moments of Tell Me It's Real?
" Tell him it Real..."
Which character – as performed by Michael Lesley – was your favorite?
Paul was written from my life, it's as if Klune knew me personnally, the only difference is i've never had anyone fall in love with me. But Paul could be me with only the name changed. every thing about him i can relate to.
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
I've never laughed so hard or cried so deeply, the whole store is one of the best.
Any additional comments?
T.J. Klune has a new fan, and Michael Lesley is an outstanding narrator, I'm sure his voice, and feeling for the characters made the difference in bringing the audio version to life.
What a great read. Thank you! I was kind of sad to have it end.
4 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Riva
- 15-07-14
Wonderful RomCom and the Perfect Narrator
This is a VERY funny M/M romcom listen from TJ Klune. The narrator was perfect and really brought all the characters to life, especially the MCs. He was fabulous!! My only warning is you will laugh out loud at this book, so be warned if you happen to be in public at the time. Also, I truly hope there is a sequel on the way and they can get this same narrator. There is a weird production error between chapters where there is a 7 - 12 sec pause and you feel like the narration stopped; it didn't, just a long pause between chapters. Other than that, this was a great listen. Definitely worth a credit.
4 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Angela
- 08-07-14
Love, love, love
So much love for this book. Every single time I listen to it I laugh, I cry, I smile like crazy. Excellent story, so funny, so emotional. And the narrator? Outstanding!
4 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Kindle Customer
- 18-11-15
Audio recording ruined it a little...
Why were the pauses interminably long!?!?!?! So many times I thought my app had died.
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Avid Reader
- 03-04-15
So funny!
I love this book it's so funny I couldn't stop laughing! Best TJ Klune book I've read so far it's romantic and funny.
2 people found this helpful