‘Suddenly Yours’ is a story with many facets. On one level, it is funny to see the two main characters struggle so hard to make the marriage neither expected a perfect success – just as long as they keep to their deal and don’t fall in love. Seriously, I have never seen two men try so hard not to fall for each other. Then there are a few surprises, some twists and turns, and revelations on both sides that made me wonder whether either one of them knew what they were doing in a relationship. This novel is a beautiful “stealth” romance, i.e., one where love sort of sneaks up on both partners, but it is also a deeply emotional journey with some painful growth as both men begin to change each other.

Cody is impulsive, enjoys one-night stands with hot men, and is determined to become a published author one of these days while working as a waiter so he can pay the bills. Truth or Dare is his favorite game, and when his three college friends dare him to chat up a stranger in the bar they visit as part of a bachelor party, Cody doesn’t see a problem.

Julian is a meticulous planner, an out gay senator, and not in the habit of doing anything that might get in the way of his reelection. He can’t explain why he felt so attracted to Cody that he ended up married to him - on a dare Julian initiated, no less – but now that he is, he is determined to make the marriage a success. Not having to worry about love getting in the way is just the icing on the cake for Julian.

Cody and Julian have both been hurt by family members and former lovers to the point that they do not believe in love. A committed relationship, on the other hand, is something they both want. So when they first strike their deal, born out of the need to “spin” Julian’s impulsive decision so it won’t hurt his political career, they both actually believe it is the best possible solution. I have never seen more convincing arguments for an arranged, perfectly logical marriage. Except… there is an underlying attraction that neither of them can deny, and over time it becomes very obvious that their “affection” is growing into more. Obvious to everyone other than Cody and Julian, that is.

Their journey is not easy. Both men are their own worst enemy, and it takes the prodding and poking of good friends, family members, and one stubborn campaign manager to alert these guys to what is really going on. And even then... but you’ve got to read this for yourself. The story is full of great details, lots of funny moments, and a ton of character quirks. It makes for very entertaining reading with a healthy dose of emotions thrown in for good measure.

If you’re looking for a comedy with some solemn undertones and real character growth, if you’re in the market for an oops-I-fell-in-love – no-idea-how-that-happened kind of romance, and if you’re looking for a read that might make you laugh, probably want to shake some awareness into both men, and leave you with a tear or two in your eyes, then you will probably like this novel as much as I do. Reading this book did all of those things to me and more. ‘Suddenly Yours’ is just too entertaining to miss.


NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews. ( )