Sibling Rivals

Love and heartbreak abound in Devon’s fast-paced slice of romantic and family life. Peter Stevens is a young man used to playing the fool, in direct contrast to his older, more staid brother, Mark. Peter’s conviviality is put to the test when their parents toss Mark from the pedestal for announcing he’s gay while home for Christmas with his lover, Colin. Following that disastrous event and Mark’s subsequent breakup with Colin, a straight-identified Peter must come to grips with his attraction to his brother’s former flame—and with the fact that Mark wants Colin back. The direct and affectionate interplay among the three men is realistic and satisfying, shattering gender-bound stereotypes while reimagining the coming-out story. The plot is rich in detail and subtle in message, and Peter’s relationship with Colin is thoroughly and playfully sexy, joyfully leading readers through a truly romantic journey toward happiness. (Oct.)