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Long Pass Chronicles #3
Tackling The Tight End
Everyone wants the best for SCU student and tight end Raven Nez—and they know exactly what that is. Enter the NFL draft, become a big football hero, promote his tribe’s casino, and make a lot of money to help people on the reservation. Just one problem.
Raven’s gay and he really wants to work with gay kids. Plus he figures a gay Native tight end will get flattened in the NFL. Then the casino board hires a talented student filmmaker to create ads for the tribal business and asks Raven to work with him. But the filmmaker is Dennis Hascomb, a guy with so much to hide and a life so ugly it’s beyond Raven’s understanding. Still he’s drawn to Dennis's pain and incredible ability to survive.
Captivated by Raven’s stories of the two-spirited and by the amazing joy of finally having a friend, Dennis knows he has to break free from everything he’s ever been taught was good—but that’s a struggle that could kill him and Raven too. Is there a chance for “the great red hope� and the “whitest guy on earth�? A future for the serpent and the raven?
Raven’s gay and he really wants to work with gay kids. Plus he figures a gay Native tight end will get flattened in the NFL. Then the casino board hires a talented student filmmaker to create ads for the tribal business and asks Raven to work with him. But the filmmaker is Dennis Hascomb, a guy with so much to hide and a life so ugly it’s beyond Raven’s understanding. Still he’s drawn to Dennis's pain and incredible ability to survive.
Captivated by Raven’s stories of the two-spirited and by the amazing joy of finally having a friend, Dennis knows he has to break free from everything he’s ever been taught was good—but that’s a struggle that could kill him and Raven too. Is there a chance for “the great red hope� and the “whitest guy on earth�? A future for the serpent and the raven?
216 pages, ebook
First published January 15, 2016
32 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
Tara Lain
86books1,386followersTara Lain believes in happy ever afters - and magic. Same thing. In fact, she says, she doesn't believe, she knows. Tara shares this passion in her stories that star her unique, charismatic heroes and adventurous heroines. Quarterbacks and cops, werewolves and witches, blue collar or billionaires, Tara's characters, readers say, love deeply, resolve seemingly insurmountable differences, and ultimately live their lives authentically. After many years living in southern California, Tara, her soulmate honey and her soulmate dog decided they wanted less cars and more trees, prompting a move to Ashland, Oregon where Tara's creating new stories and loving living in a small town with big culture. Likely a Gryffindor or maybe a Ravensclaw but possessed of Parseltongue, Tara loves animals of all kinds, diversity, open minds, coconut crunch ice cream from Zoeys, and her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
December 12, 2017
2.0 Stars
Okay, here's the thing: I am a queer, white, cis-gendered female. I preface this review with that self-identification because mostly I am uncomfortable speaking for a segment of the population to which I do not belong. I also have a degree in Social Work so I think that sometimes I am a little sensitive to the awkwardness of how gender and sexuality are worded in fiction. (If I never see another mention of "sexual preference" that doesn't reference liking it doggie-style more than missionary, it will still be too soon.)
That said, in this book, the author seems to have gotten the whole "two-spirited" aspect mostly wrong.
In the beginning there is a discussion by one of the tribe's elders on what it means to be two-spirited, and I thought "Yay!" because it was pretty much on par with all the research and reading I did relatively recently (to prepare for a state licensing exam). And for some reason, after that, it all went sideways.
See, "two-spirited" is not synonymous with "gay" or "lesbian" or "bisexual."² The term is not directly associated with sexual orientation at all. It's a gender distinction that Western culture has appropriated some in the fight for LGBTQ rights. A noble cause, but not effective when you're doing it wrong.
From what I understand¹, "two-spirited" is a non-binary gender identification with a heavy spiritual component. So, there at the end of the book, where pictures of queer historical figures (Alan Turing, Leonardo DiVinci, etc.) were shown and a voice over talks about them as being examples of "two-spirited" individuals...well, that was just the awkward icing on triple layered awkward cake. Because throughout the story the MCs were often referred to (either by others or themselves) as being "two-spirited" as well...and these were gay, male (both biological & self-identifying) characters and not two-spirited. (Being gay, as well as white, while having "visions" like a shaman doesn't make one two-spirited, either.)
So, yeah.
Besides that, though, I never warmed up to Dennis. I never bought into his "woe is me" excuse for going along with his parents' schemes and blackmail. He recognized the deeds as wrong, hurtful, unethical, and immoral...and still continued to participate. Because it was easier to go along? I hate to invoke but JFC, that kind of logic kind of applies.
Also, I'm over anyone suffering from Martyrdom complexes. Raven was basically going to cave to the demands of his father "for the good of the tribe" and give up his own dreams & aspirations, living a life he hated. No, it didn't turn out that way, but for most of the book this seemed like a foregone conclusion.
Finally, there was a sex scene where the action is compared to "riding a war pony" (something like that) and I just can't with the inappropriateness of that. (There were other instances, equally cringe-worthy and vaguely racist, but I lost the will to keep track.)
(Oh, and the narration was only, "meh." Nothing special. Nothing horrible.)
*1) (from )
2)
(Yes, I included a small bibliography because if I got any of the ideas in my rant wrong - and please let me know if I did - it was not through thoughtlessness or deliberate maliciousness.)
Okay, here's the thing: I am a queer, white, cis-gendered female. I preface this review with that self-identification because mostly I am uncomfortable speaking for a segment of the population to which I do not belong. I also have a degree in Social Work so I think that sometimes I am a little sensitive to the awkwardness of how gender and sexuality are worded in fiction. (If I never see another mention of "sexual preference" that doesn't reference liking it doggie-style more than missionary, it will still be too soon.)
That said, in this book, the author seems to have gotten the whole "two-spirited" aspect mostly wrong.
In the beginning there is a discussion by one of the tribe's elders on what it means to be two-spirited, and I thought "Yay!" because it was pretty much on par with all the research and reading I did relatively recently (to prepare for a state licensing exam). And for some reason, after that, it all went sideways.
See, "two-spirited" is not synonymous with "gay" or "lesbian" or "bisexual."² The term is not directly associated with sexual orientation at all. It's a gender distinction that Western culture has appropriated some in the fight for LGBTQ rights. A noble cause, but not effective when you're doing it wrong.
From what I understand¹, "two-spirited" is a non-binary gender identification with a heavy spiritual component. So, there at the end of the book, where pictures of queer historical figures (Alan Turing, Leonardo DiVinci, etc.) were shown and a voice over talks about them as being examples of "two-spirited" individuals...well, that was just the awkward icing on triple layered awkward cake. Because throughout the story the MCs were often referred to (either by others or themselves) as being "two-spirited" as well...and these were gay, male (both biological & self-identifying) characters and not two-spirited. (Being gay, as well as white, while having "visions" like a shaman doesn't make one two-spirited, either.)
So, yeah.
Besides that, though, I never warmed up to Dennis. I never bought into his "woe is me" excuse for going along with his parents' schemes and blackmail. He recognized the deeds as wrong, hurtful, unethical, and immoral...and still continued to participate. Because it was easier to go along? I hate to invoke but JFC, that kind of logic kind of applies.
Also, I'm over anyone suffering from Martyrdom complexes. Raven was basically going to cave to the demands of his father "for the good of the tribe" and give up his own dreams & aspirations, living a life he hated. No, it didn't turn out that way, but for most of the book this seemed like a foregone conclusion.
Finally, there was a sex scene where the action is compared to "riding a war pony" (something like that) and I just can't with the inappropriateness of that. (There were other instances, equally cringe-worthy and vaguely racist, but I lost the will to keep track.)
(Oh, and the narration was only, "meh." Nothing special. Nothing horrible.)
*1) (from )
2)
(Yes, I included a small bibliography because if I got any of the ideas in my rant wrong - and please let me know if I did - it was not through thoughtlessness or deliberate maliciousness.)
July 12, 2015
I received this copy for an honest review and let me tell you that it was hilarious, sad, believable and sacred. The way Tara wrote Raven's grandfather was truly amazing, it was like I could hear him talking in my head and smell the sage in the sweat lodge.
I wasn't sure about Dennis from the beginning but damn, will you change your mind once all the cards are on the table.
To say that this is my favorite book is probably true, just by how spot on everything was from the "white" jokes to the constant push for more from an Indian parent for their child. The book shows the similarities between cultures that people don't normally see and throws them in your face with whitty banter from Walt, Raven and Anton.
Thank you Tara for writing such a stirring, emotive, uplifting, book about the inspiring two-spirits, and Indian culture.
I wasn't sure about Dennis from the beginning but damn, will you change your mind once all the cards are on the table.
To say that this is my favorite book is probably true, just by how spot on everything was from the "white" jokes to the constant push for more from an Indian parent for their child. The book shows the similarities between cultures that people don't normally see and throws them in your face with whitty banter from Walt, Raven and Anton.
Thank you Tara for writing such a stirring, emotive, uplifting, book about the inspiring two-spirits, and Indian culture.
December 31, 2023
"And he rode his war pony until their cries bounced off the walls and welcomed them home."
Aarrgghh .... no. There was no chemistry between the MCs - Raven Nez and Dennis Hascomb, and the plot was beyond believable. Strange and convoluted, sort of like The Grifters, except instead of John Cusack, Dennis was played by Jon Heder, all flip-curled and blonded up like he was in Blades of Glory.
2023: Edited to say .... I have ABSOLUTELY no idea what I was talking about with the Grifters anology.
Aarrgghh .... no. There was no chemistry between the MCs - Raven Nez and Dennis Hascomb, and the plot was beyond believable. Strange and convoluted, sort of like The Grifters, except instead of John Cusack, Dennis was played by Jon Heder, all flip-curled and blonded up like he was in Blades of Glory.
2023: Edited to say .... I have ABSOLUTELY no idea what I was talking about with the Grifters anology.
January 24, 2016
3.5 stars
For the most part, Tara Lain writes romance after my own heart. There is something so alluring about her characters, these men that always exude incredible loneliness, but show bravery when it’s most needed. While I can do without Lain’s shifter romance (or anyone’s, really), her Long Pass Chronicles are a guilty pleasure of mine. Hot, lonely football players, closeted or not, are bound to steal my heart.
In this ongoing fight for equality, it is most useful to remind ourselves over and over again that not all cultures suffer from our prejudice. I love Lain for bringing forth Native American beliefs about two-spirited people and doing a darn good job of explaining them. How I would love to live in a culture where being gender fluid is not only accepted, but respected as well. With Raven Nez, a huge, macho football player from a different culture and with an entirely different set of beliefs, Lain delivered a character that entertains and educates, all at the same time.
While amazing in many ways, the book is not without its problems, mostly in the romance department. I loved Lain’s approach to cultural issues, but Dennis’s life and struggles seemed just a bit over the top. I don’t doubt that there are people like Dennis’s parents, but somehow, the entire set up didn’t seem at all believable to me. Consequently, I never quite believed his interest in Raven wasn’t some kind of reaction to the mess he was going through, an attachment to the first person who was genuinely kind to him. On the other hand, with so many secrets between them, Raven basically fell for someone he barely even knew, which made both their feelings seem a bit unfounded and rash to me.
Nevertheless, there are so many positives to point out, starting with Raven being so openly gay as well as the cultural insights we are offered. Overall, while it’s not my favorite in the series, Tackling the Tight End (and I refuse to discuss the ridiculous title) is a book worth reading for many reasons. I’d recommend giving the entire series a try.
A copy of this book was kindly provided by the publisher for review purposes. No considerations, monetary or otherwise, have influenced the opinions expressed in this review.
December 26, 2015
OMG! What a great story! I loved the character of Raven Nez... Wanted to hate Dennis Hascomb and probably did for the first chapter but as the character of Dennis developed I just wanted to grab him up, hug him tightly and run away with him. Being a huge fan of Tara Lain made me expect great things and characters but this one really kept me guessing all they way to the end. This one will land in my re-read folder, it will be one to pull out when I just need to have a book that makes me feel good and that all is right in the world. Loved the two-spirit theme of the story, it's one I have not heard or read before.
January 15, 2016
Welcome to my stop on the Tackling the Tight End blogtour. I have my review and favorite quotes as usual, and there are other goodies here for me to share with you as well! This Blogtour is hosted by .
Tackling the Tight End is the third instalment in Lain's Long Pass Chronicles series, and it features the 'bad guy' from the first book as one of the main characters. The story is filled with conflict, both external and internal, and it was sweet in some moments, and pretty dark in others.
At the beginning of Tackling the Tight End, I had a little bit of trouble getting into the story being about Dennis, he was such a scumbag in the first book, and I really, really hated what he stood for, and the lengths he went to in his youtube show to 'out' people from his university. When he was hired by Raven's father to do a promotional video for the Casino of their tribe, I was sure nothing good would come from it. Lain completely proved me wrong, though, even if the road was narrow and quite bumpy...
Raven was a character I fell in love with from the start of Tackling the Tight End, because he was strong, both on the football field and out - he was openly gay, and even his team mates, and most of his tribe, were completely on board with that. I loved that this tribe had some very strong mythology of what they called the 'two spirited'; those who could be either man or woman, or both. The ones who were very much in touch with the spirit world, often medicine men (or women) and who would always be there to help the tribe, healing, and finding solutions to problems. Raven was a lot like that, he worked at a youth shelter for gay youth, many of which had been thrown out by their families.
As the story unfolded, it became clear that while Dennis had done some very wile things, he wasn't inherently a bad person. He struggled a lot with what he was doing, but in many ways, he didn't really feel like he had a choice. Even as he got to know Raven much better, and they became friends, then something more, Dennis felt so conflicted. He truly didn't think he deserved any goodness in his life, but at the same time, Raven shone so bright it was impossible for Dennis to stay away. While Raven was out, Dennis was so hidden he wasn't exactly sure himself he was gay. Both young men faced a lot of pressure from their families, and they had to fight to stay true to themselves so that maybe one day, they could live the life they had chosen.
Written in third person point of view, past tense, the story was nicely paced, and the flow was seamless. The only reason why I didn't rate Tackling the Tight End higher was because of my own pre-conceptions of Dennis at the beginning of the story, even if Ms. Lain managed to change my mind as the story unfolded.
His father never loved that Raven hung out with a bunch of gay white kids when he could be working for the glory of the tribe - preferably on the football field. Raven dragged Walt behind him as he followed his father toward the dais. His dad's formidable hawk profile turned back toward him. "Priorities, Raven." "Yes, sir." He had plenty of priorities. They just didn't include large gatherings of tribal dignitaries.
Raven stood six feet five and weighed in at two twenty-five. Big. Powerful. Shoulders for miles, a twelve-pack that would have made bodybuilders swoon, and a waist so narrow it was hard to believe it was on the same man as the shoulders.
His grandfather smiled. "Do you think if there is any Creator, that he or she would makes such a terrible error? To craft beautifully unique people and then call them mistakes?" He shook his head and sipped his tea.
Buy Links for Tackling the Tight End:
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About the Author:
Tara Lain writes the Beautiful Boys of Romance in LGBT erotic romance novels that star her unique, charismatic heroes. Her first novel was published in January of 2011 and she’s now somewhere around book 23. Her bestselling novels have garnered awards for Best Series, Best Contemporary Romance, Best Ménage, Best LGBT Romance, Best Gay Characters, and Tara has been named Best Writer of the Year in the LRC Awards. In her other job, Tara owns an advertising and public relations firm. She often does workshops on both author promotion and writing craft. She lives with her soulmate husband and her soulmate dog in Laguna Beach, California, a pretty seaside town where she sets a lot of her books. Passionate about diversity, justice, and new experiences, Tara says on her tombstone it will say “Yes�Author Links:
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Thanks for stopping by today, and good luck in the giveaway!
December 27, 2015
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is my favorite Tara Lain story to date, and I have read a LOT of Tara Lain stories, at least 90% so I feel qualified to make that statement.
Raven Nez, SCU senior and tight end for the football team, is known around campus as “The Medicine Man� for his outstanding performance on the football field. Everyone wants to see him as a first round draft pick, including his father who feels that it will bring prestige to the reservation’s casino, thereby increasing the revenue which goes to help all Natives who live there. But “everyone� doesn’t include Raven himself. He simply wants to finish his degree and work with young gay homeless teens like those in the shelter where he volunteers and tells them the story of “two-spirited� people. It’s a story his grandfather first told him when he was a young man, and it helped him with self-acceptance as he realized he was gay. Now out-and-proud, Raven feels he can make a difference in the lives of others like him if he follows his heart and the career path he chooses. He’s also realistic about the fact that a Native American homosexual could attract the attention of more than the usual number of 300 pound tackles if he gets into the NFL.
When his dad asks him to help put together a promotional video for the casino as part of his work internship, he meets Dennis Hascomb, the film major and talk show host who tried to out Will in . Though others find him sleazy, Raven has no problem with Dennis and, in fact, he’s quite attracted to the handsome blond man. What shocks Dennis is that he feels attracted to Raven, and that’s never happened before. In fact, he usually isn’t even attracted to women, his focus being solely on work and on avoiding his parents.
Dennis’s parents are a trip. They’re quite possibly the most evil couple I’ve ever had the displeasure to meet in all of fictiondom. They’ve sold his sister into virtual slavery and hold Dennis hostage by threatening to arrange her death. Dennis must assist them in their schemes to coerce money from their targets, including several popular young men and women on campus. What they pull is despicable, and if the author hadn’t found a way to endear Dennis to readers early in the story, we may not have wanted to see him get his man, Raven. But she did such an excellent job in character development of both Dennis and Raven, and secondary characters including Raven’s BFF, and the nasty parents, that I felt like I was watching a family drama/thriller on the big screen.
There are quite a few twists and turns in the story, and I really wanted to slap Dennis a few times when he didn’t trust Raven with the truth, but there were so many redeeming points that I allowed myself to just be carried along page by page. I also loved Raven’s grandfather, a wise old shaman who helps both young men to see their inner strengths and resolve their turmoil. There’s really nothing about this story that I didn’t like, other than the nasty parents, and they’re so necessary to the plot that I can’t include them in a negative list.
If you like MM romance and are into sports, or if you can tap into your spiritual side to find inner harmony and strength from a story of hope, you should enjoy this one as these young men work their way through issues which might have destroyed them but ultimately bring them together for a very satisfying HEA.
This is my favorite Tara Lain story to date, and I have read a LOT of Tara Lain stories, at least 90% so I feel qualified to make that statement.
Raven Nez, SCU senior and tight end for the football team, is known around campus as “The Medicine Man� for his outstanding performance on the football field. Everyone wants to see him as a first round draft pick, including his father who feels that it will bring prestige to the reservation’s casino, thereby increasing the revenue which goes to help all Natives who live there. But “everyone� doesn’t include Raven himself. He simply wants to finish his degree and work with young gay homeless teens like those in the shelter where he volunteers and tells them the story of “two-spirited� people. It’s a story his grandfather first told him when he was a young man, and it helped him with self-acceptance as he realized he was gay. Now out-and-proud, Raven feels he can make a difference in the lives of others like him if he follows his heart and the career path he chooses. He’s also realistic about the fact that a Native American homosexual could attract the attention of more than the usual number of 300 pound tackles if he gets into the NFL.
When his dad asks him to help put together a promotional video for the casino as part of his work internship, he meets Dennis Hascomb, the film major and talk show host who tried to out Will in . Though others find him sleazy, Raven has no problem with Dennis and, in fact, he’s quite attracted to the handsome blond man. What shocks Dennis is that he feels attracted to Raven, and that’s never happened before. In fact, he usually isn’t even attracted to women, his focus being solely on work and on avoiding his parents.
Dennis’s parents are a trip. They’re quite possibly the most evil couple I’ve ever had the displeasure to meet in all of fictiondom. They’ve sold his sister into virtual slavery and hold Dennis hostage by threatening to arrange her death. Dennis must assist them in their schemes to coerce money from their targets, including several popular young men and women on campus. What they pull is despicable, and if the author hadn’t found a way to endear Dennis to readers early in the story, we may not have wanted to see him get his man, Raven. But she did such an excellent job in character development of both Dennis and Raven, and secondary characters including Raven’s BFF, and the nasty parents, that I felt like I was watching a family drama/thriller on the big screen.
There are quite a few twists and turns in the story, and I really wanted to slap Dennis a few times when he didn’t trust Raven with the truth, but there were so many redeeming points that I allowed myself to just be carried along page by page. I also loved Raven’s grandfather, a wise old shaman who helps both young men to see their inner strengths and resolve their turmoil. There’s really nothing about this story that I didn’t like, other than the nasty parents, and they’re so necessary to the plot that I can’t include them in a negative list.
If you like MM romance and are into sports, or if you can tap into your spiritual side to find inner harmony and strength from a story of hope, you should enjoy this one as these young men work their way through issues which might have destroyed them but ultimately bring them together for a very satisfying HEA.
Shelved as 'dnf-or-hated'
January 2, 2016DNF @ 40%
"Dennis Hascomb, a guy with so much to hide and a life so ugly it’s beyond Raven’s understanding."
*deep breath* The blurb says it, and it's true.
Stories like this are no bueno for me. They make my stomach hurt. Like, legit, hurt. I don't like this and I don't want to read it any more. I skimmed the rest to see if it would get better for me, but it doesn't and I'm almost crying and breaking out in hives - so I'm out.
"Dennis Hascomb, a guy with so much to hide and a life so ugly it’s beyond Raven’s understanding."
*deep breath* The blurb says it, and it's true.
Stories like this are no bueno for me. They make my stomach hurt. Like, legit, hurt. I don't like this and I don't want to read it any more. I skimmed the rest to see if it would get better for me, but it doesn't and I'm almost crying and breaking out in hives - so I'm out.
January 16, 2016
This author is a given, I will read her stories without even looking at the blurb or the cover of the book. But then, you give me this cover of a beautiful Native American and I am caught…hook, line, and sinker. Just look at him!!! I had to read this one.
Tara Lain stories are like crack for me. They are fast and easy reads…until they aren’t so easy. Dennis is one majorly complicated guy with a history that’s too horrific to imagine. He was so completely unlovable in Outing the Quarterback and continues his evil ways in this book, but now we find out the “whys� and the “how comes�, and they ain’t pretty. As a matter of fact, it’s pretty despicable and sickening. I can’t even fathom how horrific it would be to be raised in that type of household.
Raven is the gorgeous, out and proud, tight end for his college football team. He is loved by his family, his team mates, his best friend, basically everyone loves him…including Dennis. Unfortunately, Raven is forced to do what he doesn’t want to do for his tribe, the same as Dennis is forced to do things by his family. These two have a lot to overcome, and it’s not fast nor easy.
Tara Lain has taken a detour to the dark side, and I liked it. It was still sexy, still sweet, but with just enough of a taste of the eerie and obscene that I was left turning the pages until it was over. This was not a hard read, but it wasn’t pleasant either, yet it was entertaining, it was sexy, and the bad guys get it in the end with our lovers, Raven and Dennis, getting each other.
As usual, I highly recommend this author and this series.
Tara Lain stories are like crack for me. They are fast and easy reads…until they aren’t so easy. Dennis is one majorly complicated guy with a history that’s too horrific to imagine. He was so completely unlovable in Outing the Quarterback and continues his evil ways in this book, but now we find out the “whys� and the “how comes�, and they ain’t pretty. As a matter of fact, it’s pretty despicable and sickening. I can’t even fathom how horrific it would be to be raised in that type of household.
Raven is the gorgeous, out and proud, tight end for his college football team. He is loved by his family, his team mates, his best friend, basically everyone loves him…including Dennis. Unfortunately, Raven is forced to do what he doesn’t want to do for his tribe, the same as Dennis is forced to do things by his family. These two have a lot to overcome, and it’s not fast nor easy.
Tara Lain has taken a detour to the dark side, and I liked it. It was still sexy, still sweet, but with just enough of a taste of the eerie and obscene that I was left turning the pages until it was over. This was not a hard read, but it wasn’t pleasant either, yet it was entertaining, it was sexy, and the bad guys get it in the end with our lovers, Raven and Dennis, getting each other.
As usual, I highly recommend this author and this series.
March 7, 2016
Oh, man, when will I ever learn not to one-click in a panic when I realize late at night that I need a book for the next morning?
Probably never. Oh well...
So, this one is pretty bad. The first two books in the series were not exactly earth-shattering but they were kind of okay. This one here is at least as bad as "Knave of Broken Hearts" which I pretty much hated. Maybe the author should not try to write minority MCs. It doesn't really work.
But apart from that - the plot is soap operatic including the super-evil parents from hell, the characters are flat, the sex scenes are... "He pumped like he was searching for oil." Need I say more? Not sexy, not sexy at all.
I also wasn't really happy with the depiction of the Native American characters. I'm not talking about overt racism, I'm really not but there were some things that I found just grating like Raven's grandfather, the super-clichéd wise Elder - to start talking like yoda any minute I expected him. And seriously, lines like "Thanks. Get my father going on the slings and arrows leveled against all Natives, and you can't shut him up."
"Mine too, and mostly he's benefitted from white culture. But his father and father's father suffered, so I guess he's entitled to be self-righteous."
That's just downright offensive.
Anyhow, not my cuppa.
Probably never. Oh well...
So, this one is pretty bad. The first two books in the series were not exactly earth-shattering but they were kind of okay. This one here is at least as bad as "Knave of Broken Hearts" which I pretty much hated. Maybe the author should not try to write minority MCs. It doesn't really work.
But apart from that - the plot is soap operatic including the super-evil parents from hell, the characters are flat, the sex scenes are... "He pumped like he was searching for oil." Need I say more? Not sexy, not sexy at all.
I also wasn't really happy with the depiction of the Native American characters. I'm not talking about overt racism, I'm really not but there were some things that I found just grating like Raven's grandfather, the super-clichéd wise Elder - to start talking like yoda any minute I expected him. And seriously, lines like "Thanks. Get my father going on the slings and arrows leveled against all Natives, and you can't shut him up."
"Mine too, and mostly he's benefitted from white culture. But his father and father's father suffered, so I guess he's entitled to be self-righteous."
That's just downright offensive.
Anyhow, not my cuppa.
September 6, 2016
When I first started reading this book I thought to myself "well damn, this might be the best book in the series" since Raven was an out and proud football player. I was also intrigued that he was Native American. I was willing to give Dennis a second chance since I didn't really like him in the first book. Once I realized that Dennis was still up to his old ways and blackmailing students, things took a swift downhill turn.
I couldn't root for Dennis or respect him. I don't care that he felt like he had to do what he did. So I started to skip chunks of this. The story got hella ridiculous. And there wasn't any chemistry between Raven and Dennis. Hopefully the series ends with this book because even though I liked Walt I don't think I'd read his story or any other in this series.
I couldn't root for Dennis or respect him. I don't care that he felt like he had to do what he did. So I started to skip chunks of this. The story got hella ridiculous. And there wasn't any chemistry between Raven and Dennis. Hopefully the series ends with this book because even though I liked Walt I don't think I'd read his story or any other in this series.
January 11, 2016
Who cries at the END of a book? Me! Why? Because it was beautiful, so very beautiful!
This is book 3 in the Series, but i haven't read any of the others, and wasn't confused at all.
Raven 'The Medicine Man' Nez is the tight end for SCU. His father has big dreams for him, first pick in he NFL draft, managing the casino, modeling and sponsoring a clothing line, all in the name of his tribe. What Raven really wants to do? Become a youth counselor, specifically to the LGBT youth community.
Dennis Halcomb is a film student at SCU, who gets recommended to Raven's father to help in an ad for the casino. Ravens father puts him in charge of coordinating everything with Dennis, and that's how the two meet. But Dennis is quite reluctant, he's never had friends before and there's a reason for that. Under the control of his parents he is very limited to what he can do, and anyone he may get close to, his parents may try and use that to their advantage. Dennis can't resist though, he's falling for Raven, who has opened him up to a whole new world and outlook on life, if they could both just get out of the grips of their parents.
This story was so good. The whole time you're wondering about the true nature of Dennis's parents and where his sister is and your gut just clenched waiting for the other shoe to drop. His parents are the lowest and pretty frightening, really. But when they try to bring in an innocent, Dennis has enough and takes matters into his own hands.
The Native American back story with the folklore intertwined in it is just brilliant, and absolutely beautiful. Tara did a wonderful job with the Serpent and Black Bird and the Two Souls lore. The ending just really brings a whole new perspective and I see a lot of truth in it, its very inspiring.
4.5 happy tears stars
This is book 3 in the Series, but i haven't read any of the others, and wasn't confused at all.
Raven 'The Medicine Man' Nez is the tight end for SCU. His father has big dreams for him, first pick in he NFL draft, managing the casino, modeling and sponsoring a clothing line, all in the name of his tribe. What Raven really wants to do? Become a youth counselor, specifically to the LGBT youth community.
Dennis Halcomb is a film student at SCU, who gets recommended to Raven's father to help in an ad for the casino. Ravens father puts him in charge of coordinating everything with Dennis, and that's how the two meet. But Dennis is quite reluctant, he's never had friends before and there's a reason for that. Under the control of his parents he is very limited to what he can do, and anyone he may get close to, his parents may try and use that to their advantage. Dennis can't resist though, he's falling for Raven, who has opened him up to a whole new world and outlook on life, if they could both just get out of the grips of their parents.
This story was so good. The whole time you're wondering about the true nature of Dennis's parents and where his sister is and your gut just clenched waiting for the other shoe to drop. His parents are the lowest and pretty frightening, really. But when they try to bring in an innocent, Dennis has enough and takes matters into his own hands.
The Native American back story with the folklore intertwined in it is just brilliant, and absolutely beautiful. Tara did a wonderful job with the Serpent and Black Bird and the Two Souls lore. The ending just really brings a whole new perspective and I see a lot of truth in it, its very inspiring.
4.5 happy tears stars
Want to read
March 31, 2015I want this..... Like yesterday!!!!!!
February 22, 2020
“True Redemption is seized when you accept the future consequences for your past mistakes.� ~ Eduardo Macedo
Raven Nez seems to have it all with his Native American good looks, athletic skills, possibility of an NFL draft, and charisma. In their overenthusiasm, Raven's family and fans are pulling him in several directions, none of which are the way Raven wants to go. His success is good for the locals, especially considering how much revenue Raven's ventures will bring in. It's not that Raven is ungrateful for his success, but he wishes he had more choice in the matter.
Trying to be the “good son� and doing what's expected of him, Raven assists with a publicity project for his father's casino in which Dennis Hascomb, a young photography student, will be doing the filming. From the beginning, there is a spark between them, but Dennis isn't gay and Raven has a boyfriend, Walt, who is actually just his best friend. As Raven and Dennis work together, they become friends. Raven senses that Dennis is extremely troubled by something, which he admits but can't talk about. His attraction to Dennis continues to grow stronger, but Dennis resists getting closer. When Dennis finally shows up again, Raven is determined to find out what is wrong and won't take no for an answer. Dennis can't tell him the whole truth, but admits that he thinks he's gay. Besides talking it out with Dennis, Raven does his best to help Dennis accept himself. Raven introduces Dennis to his grandfather and the counselor at the Gay Youth Center where Raven volunteers; both of offer him help but Dennis is resistant.
All of his life, Dennis has lived in fear of his parents with good reason. Due to their manipulation, Dennis lives in fear of what the consequences might be if he didn't listen to them. Their brainwashing, physical, and psychological abuse have taken its toll. His parents are despicable con artists who force Dennis to gather “sensitive� information that can be used against them. Dennis is beginning to hate it and them more each day. Raven's Native American stories about two-spirited people, those who don't fit into the binary gender model, being treated with respect hit a chord with Dennis, but even the thought of his parents' reaction to a gay son is enough to terrify Dennis and “keep him straight�. When Dennis's parents realize that he's friends with Raven, they encourage the relationship, thinking that they might able to use it to their advantage. The idea of Raven in their clutches terrifies Dennis. He knows he has to do something drastic to keep that from happening, even if it means severe consequences.
Making a hero of a villain is a tall order, but Tara does it with ease. Dennis was a person I considered despicable before since he caused so much misery in the first book of the series. He seemed unredeemable, but Tara explained why he acted the way he did. I began to feel sorry for him for having such dreadful parents and such an awful life. Surprised as I was by this, I was even more surprised when I finally found myself liking him, even though I still think his consequences were a bit too light. While Tara was accomplishing this monumental feat, she also reminded me of the old adage: “To err is human, to forgive is divine.� If you enjoy reading about Native American customs, football, parental expectations, underhandedness, deceit, kidnapping, drama, and angst, you may like this book. Thank you, Tara, for showing me the true Dennis and for giving him and Raven the love they earned.
NOTE: The first edition of this book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on .
Raven Nez seems to have it all with his Native American good looks, athletic skills, possibility of an NFL draft, and charisma. In their overenthusiasm, Raven's family and fans are pulling him in several directions, none of which are the way Raven wants to go. His success is good for the locals, especially considering how much revenue Raven's ventures will bring in. It's not that Raven is ungrateful for his success, but he wishes he had more choice in the matter.
Trying to be the “good son� and doing what's expected of him, Raven assists with a publicity project for his father's casino in which Dennis Hascomb, a young photography student, will be doing the filming. From the beginning, there is a spark between them, but Dennis isn't gay and Raven has a boyfriend, Walt, who is actually just his best friend. As Raven and Dennis work together, they become friends. Raven senses that Dennis is extremely troubled by something, which he admits but can't talk about. His attraction to Dennis continues to grow stronger, but Dennis resists getting closer. When Dennis finally shows up again, Raven is determined to find out what is wrong and won't take no for an answer. Dennis can't tell him the whole truth, but admits that he thinks he's gay. Besides talking it out with Dennis, Raven does his best to help Dennis accept himself. Raven introduces Dennis to his grandfather and the counselor at the Gay Youth Center where Raven volunteers; both of offer him help but Dennis is resistant.
All of his life, Dennis has lived in fear of his parents with good reason. Due to their manipulation, Dennis lives in fear of what the consequences might be if he didn't listen to them. Their brainwashing, physical, and psychological abuse have taken its toll. His parents are despicable con artists who force Dennis to gather “sensitive� information that can be used against them. Dennis is beginning to hate it and them more each day. Raven's Native American stories about two-spirited people, those who don't fit into the binary gender model, being treated with respect hit a chord with Dennis, but even the thought of his parents' reaction to a gay son is enough to terrify Dennis and “keep him straight�. When Dennis's parents realize that he's friends with Raven, they encourage the relationship, thinking that they might able to use it to their advantage. The idea of Raven in their clutches terrifies Dennis. He knows he has to do something drastic to keep that from happening, even if it means severe consequences.
Making a hero of a villain is a tall order, but Tara does it with ease. Dennis was a person I considered despicable before since he caused so much misery in the first book of the series. He seemed unredeemable, but Tara explained why he acted the way he did. I began to feel sorry for him for having such dreadful parents and such an awful life. Surprised as I was by this, I was even more surprised when I finally found myself liking him, even though I still think his consequences were a bit too light. While Tara was accomplishing this monumental feat, she also reminded me of the old adage: “To err is human, to forgive is divine.� If you enjoy reading about Native American customs, football, parental expectations, underhandedness, deceit, kidnapping, drama, and angst, you may like this book. Thank you, Tara, for showing me the true Dennis and for giving him and Raven the love they earned.
NOTE: The first edition of this book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on .
January 15, 2016
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
Raven Nez is a Native American college student with the weight of his tribe on his shoulders. Known as The Medicine Man around campus for his skills on the football field, he seems to be the only person not enamoured by the NFL and all it could bring to his community. He is a compassionate man who works closely with the youth at a nearby LGBT homeless shelter, an openly gay man who refuses to go back into the closet for a career, and a man who believes in the old myths and ways of his tribe. He is being pushed into a life he doesn’t agree with by his parents, in particular his father, and he is running out of time and excuses to put a stop to it all.
Then along comes Dennis Hascomb, hired by his family’s casino to make a promotional video and it all goes to hell.
Dennis doesn’t have strict parents � he has parents who control every single detail of his life, most often to his detriment but always to their advantage. Since he was a very small child he has been used and abused and they now hold something very precious over his head to keep him in line. I had to stretch my imagination just a bit to believe that a 21 year old man wouldn’t have confided in anyone, or gone to the Police about the way he was treated or what was happening to his family. His parents were plain creepy!
Dennis and Raven fall for each other quickly even though Dennis has spent his life denying he was gay. He is determined to keep Raven away from his family but when that doesn’t work out and Raven’s family become his parents next con something in Dennis finally snaps and he starts to work towards his own freedom and saving Raven’s family from their grasp.
To stay together as a couple this pair have to jump some pretty big hurdles and it wasn’t clear right up until the end how that was going to happen. This is a good addition to the Long Pass Chronicles series and I particularity enjoyed Raven’s grandfather and the stories he had to tell.
Raven Nez is a Native American college student with the weight of his tribe on his shoulders. Known as The Medicine Man around campus for his skills on the football field, he seems to be the only person not enamoured by the NFL and all it could bring to his community. He is a compassionate man who works closely with the youth at a nearby LGBT homeless shelter, an openly gay man who refuses to go back into the closet for a career, and a man who believes in the old myths and ways of his tribe. He is being pushed into a life he doesn’t agree with by his parents, in particular his father, and he is running out of time and excuses to put a stop to it all.
Then along comes Dennis Hascomb, hired by his family’s casino to make a promotional video and it all goes to hell.
Dennis doesn’t have strict parents � he has parents who control every single detail of his life, most often to his detriment but always to their advantage. Since he was a very small child he has been used and abused and they now hold something very precious over his head to keep him in line. I had to stretch my imagination just a bit to believe that a 21 year old man wouldn’t have confided in anyone, or gone to the Police about the way he was treated or what was happening to his family. His parents were plain creepy!
Dennis and Raven fall for each other quickly even though Dennis has spent his life denying he was gay. He is determined to keep Raven away from his family but when that doesn’t work out and Raven’s family become his parents next con something in Dennis finally snaps and he starts to work towards his own freedom and saving Raven’s family from their grasp.
To stay together as a couple this pair have to jump some pretty big hurdles and it wasn’t clear right up until the end how that was going to happen. This is a good addition to the Long Pass Chronicles series and I particularity enjoyed Raven’s grandfather and the stories he had to tell.
January 15, 2016
There were a lot of elements in this book that were fantastic to read. I enjoyed it way more than I thought I would once I realized that one of the MCs was an unlikable character from the first book in the series; however, you can read this book as a standalone, all necessary details are in this book.
It takes talent and a good story to make a person empathize with and care about a character that was truly unlikable in a previous book. Tara Lain managed to do this with Dennis. We see Dennis and his actions in a totally new light. He wants to make films and he has plenty of talent for it, but his home life dictates everything that he does. He feels trapped and hopeless. The more you know about Dennis, his life, and the secrets that he holds, the more you understand his pain. The best thing that happens to Dennis is meeting Raven.
Raven has his own set of issues. His tribe has a casino and they want him to be everything he can be to bring in people to the casino and do the Tribe proud. In his father's mind, that means playing football professionally. Raven doesn't think he's good enough for the professional league and just wants to work with LGBT kids. He and his best friend, Walt, have a fictional relationship to keep Raven's family from putting even more pressure on him. When his father decides they need a new commercial/ads for the casino, Raven meets Dennis.
The cast of characters in this one is pretty full. I loved Raven and his grandfather. The story of being two-spirited is beautiful, and one that I think more people should know. Walt was another wonderful addition to the story and a great friend to Raven. In this one, the bad guys really were bad. Raven's parents, while not horrible like Dennis', really needed a swift kick.
* I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a unbiased, honest review*
It takes talent and a good story to make a person empathize with and care about a character that was truly unlikable in a previous book. Tara Lain managed to do this with Dennis. We see Dennis and his actions in a totally new light. He wants to make films and he has plenty of talent for it, but his home life dictates everything that he does. He feels trapped and hopeless. The more you know about Dennis, his life, and the secrets that he holds, the more you understand his pain. The best thing that happens to Dennis is meeting Raven.
Raven has his own set of issues. His tribe has a casino and they want him to be everything he can be to bring in people to the casino and do the Tribe proud. In his father's mind, that means playing football professionally. Raven doesn't think he's good enough for the professional league and just wants to work with LGBT kids. He and his best friend, Walt, have a fictional relationship to keep Raven's family from putting even more pressure on him. When his father decides they need a new commercial/ads for the casino, Raven meets Dennis.
The cast of characters in this one is pretty full. I loved Raven and his grandfather. The story of being two-spirited is beautiful, and one that I think more people should know. Walt was another wonderful addition to the story and a great friend to Raven. In this one, the bad guys really were bad. Raven's parents, while not horrible like Dennis', really needed a swift kick.
* I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a unbiased, honest review*
December 29, 2015
This story involves two men from different backgrounds coming to know and learn from each other.
Raven is a Native American who plays football and is known for his style on the field. He is very open and honest with his choice sexual choice in life. However, his father wants him to play professional football to increase revenue and exposure for the tribe. His father puts him in charge of making a video of the Casino they own and sends him to meet with the film student.
Dennis is the film student, but has a shady reputation around campus for exposing people on a show called Dennis' Den. He feels immediate attraction when he meets Raven, but doesn't quite understand as he thinks of himself as a straight person.
Raven is attracted to Dennis also, but doesn't do anything until Dennis inquires about how their friendship/attraction is developing. Raven takes Dennis to see his grandfather who tells Dennis about two-spirited people and warns Raven to be careful as Dennis past may collide with his future.
Dennis is trying to find his sister, who was sold out to a gangster by his parents and this sets a lot of things in motion. This is a must read story, so I will not reveal all the twists and turns.
Tara does a fantastic job developing both characters. Raven is strong, but yet has a soft side and Dennis is terrified, but gains strength as the book goes on.
This is an M/M story and with a HEA, but will keep you page turning to see what happens next.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading M/M romances with a HEA.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 31, 2015
Copy given by Author in exchange for an honest review
I blame this book for many things. First it had this gorgeous cover that I couldn't resist ogling for ages, then it was so well written it kept me awake long past my bedtime. Lastly I was supposed to be doing my usual reading of two or three books at the same time - not happening with this book, far to captivating to bother picking up another book. So an actual review instead of complaints would be to tell you that this book tells a wonderful romantic story. There were sad parts (that made me cry hence the 5*) and there were funny parts and there was romance threaded around it all. But what made this book stand out from the other's in the Long Pass Chronicles was that the football player, the fist MC Raven, wasn't as interested in football as a career but was willing to do it for love of family and tribe. Anyone who has read the first two stories knows something about Dennis Hascomb, the other MC, and probably wasn't too happy with the man but this book sets us straight and shows us a man who will do anything for love. The other thing that I enjoyed about this book was the respectful and insightful way the Native American beliefs was shown, I learnt so much. So who would I recommend this to? Anyone who enjoyed any of Tara's previous books and anyone who enjoys a romance with depth.
January 5, 2016
Raven Nez is blessed. He is HOT, talented, and gay with the acceptance if not blessing from his parents. He is being scouted by the pros for the NFL draft. He should be on top of the world. But The NFL and running the Casino like his dad is his parents dream for him. He would much prefer working at the shelter helping out the gay kids that have ended up there when they were forced from their homes.
Dennis Hascomb is a physically blessed young film student who is living in a nightmare. The attraction between Raven & Dennis is instant and combustible but they will have a lot to overcome to be together.
Tackling The Tight End is a sweet often angsty tale of love, betrayal and expectations. It deals with abuse, cultural identity and expectations. This book will keep you thinking long past the last page. Well done Ms. Lane.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
Dennis Hascomb is a physically blessed young film student who is living in a nightmare. The attraction between Raven & Dennis is instant and combustible but they will have a lot to overcome to be together.
Tackling The Tight End is a sweet often angsty tale of love, betrayal and expectations. It deals with abuse, cultural identity and expectations. This book will keep you thinking long past the last page. Well done Ms. Lane.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
March 11, 2016
I thought this book was a very good addition to this series!
At first I will admit this book did drag for me a little bit but once I got halfway through this I was grabbed and loving it!
I really loved Ravens character and the way he treated Dennis... Then there was Dennis's character which I will admit took me awhile to warm up to him at first. For some reason I was just not a big fan of his at first. I did like these two men together by the end of the book though..
You will get action, angst and steam in this book and some on the edge of your seat moments too! So I will leave this review with... I really liked this book and would recommend this series!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
At first I will admit this book did drag for me a little bit but once I got halfway through this I was grabbed and loving it!
I really loved Ravens character and the way he treated Dennis... Then there was Dennis's character which I will admit took me awhile to warm up to him at first. For some reason I was just not a big fan of his at first. I did like these two men together by the end of the book though..
You will get action, angst and steam in this book and some on the edge of your seat moments too! So I will leave this review with... I really liked this book and would recommend this series!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
December 28, 2015
Received ARC copy of this book for fair and honest review.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series by Tara Lain and this third addition is no different. Although this book is part of a series in my opinion it can be read as a stand alone.
I love Raven and Dennis. My heart breaks for Dennis and the life he's had to live. The stark differences between the two MC's would seem to divide them, but in this book it seems to draw them together, beautifully.
I highly recommend this book as well as the other two books from The Long Pass Chronicles, Outing the Quarterback and, my personal favorite, Canning the Center.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series by Tara Lain and this third addition is no different. Although this book is part of a series in my opinion it can be read as a stand alone.
I love Raven and Dennis. My heart breaks for Dennis and the life he's had to live. The stark differences between the two MC's would seem to divide them, but in this book it seems to draw them together, beautifully.
I highly recommend this book as well as the other two books from The Long Pass Chronicles, Outing the Quarterback and, my personal favorite, Canning the Center.
December 28, 2015
I received this copy for an honest review.
I think this is the best book in this series so far.
I loved Raven from the start of the book. Also loved Raven's grandfather.
I didn't like Dennis in the beginning. Started to like him more when you learned his story.
I think this is the best book in this series so far.
I loved Raven from the start of the book. Also loved Raven's grandfather.
I didn't like Dennis in the beginning. Started to like him more when you learned his story.
January 17, 2016
Good read, good suspense.
The villiany was much better handled than Book 2.
I would have liked Dennis to have been truthful with Raven sooner, but I understood his reasoning.
The villiany was much better handled than Book 2.
I would have liked Dennis to have been truthful with Raven sooner, but I understood his reasoning.
February 6, 2016
I LOVE Tara Lain's characters and stories.... sweet and wonderful. She takes you on a ride and you don't wanna to leave her world!!! I highly recommend this book. Hugs, Z.
December 21, 2016
Definitely 3.5 to 4 Stars. I really enjoyed this read.
November 28, 2021
I loved this one even better than the previous two stories in the series!! Raven is a tight end for the football team and Native American, he’s also gay. His dad asks him to help out the tribe by helping to promote it. Dennis was first introduced in Outing the Quarterback. He also finds himself attracted to Raven. I loved Raven’s grandfather but had a passionate dislike for Dennis’s parents. Overall, it was a really good story!! It well written, highly recommend! I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
January 25, 2020
It's been a long time since I read the first of the series, so I didn't have any problems with seeing Dennis as a victim instead of a bully and blackmailer. I absolutely ache for all he's gone through -- the closet scene almost gave me a panic attack. Raven is just an all around good person, and I loved the last image of him leaping. What an amazing pair!
Want to read
April 3, 2020ref for self ?
January 25, 2016
Of all the books in this series this one is my favorite by far. I think because we see more. More serious topics, more deep emotion and more inspiration. Raven was amazing for me. I love his desire to help his tribe and youth. He was deep in his roots of being Native american and took pride in that. He was down to earth and wasn’t one who wanted the spotlight but also proud of who he was. He had a desire to help others and be there for them as well. The inspirational story of two spirit in helping teens accept and be proud of who they are is a wonderful aspect to this story. It shows strength and acceptance but also that we love who we love and that isn’t wrong or bad.
Raven and Dennis are different but the same. They both are pressured by parents and don’t want to let them down. For different reasons though. Raven’s pressure is to help better the tribe and be successful. His parents are proud of him even if he didn’t realize this until the end. They just wanted what they thought was best for him and everyone as a whole. Dennis had fear. He feared his parents and what they would do. they come off as Ozzie and Harriet but really they were Chuckie and his bride. I mean they are truly horrible people. He was also trying to help Maria. For Dennis home was a prison a true prison. For Raven his prison wasn’t literal but figurative because he felt he couldn’t spread his wings and be who he was meant to because of all the expectations on him.
My favorite character was Raven’s grandfather. That was one wise, kind patient man. He helped Dennis and Raven on their path to finding each other and themselves. He was accepting and loving and didn’t judge. A great side character.
The story of Raven and Dennis and how they find love with each other is filled with so many emotions. We see serious issues tackled like abuse, expectations, and becoming an adult. We see the pressures of family and expectations. But we see two people who like each other and explore this attraction. Raven is kind and patient. He sees more than one thinks and is there for Dennis. He is honest and shows Dennis that no matter what he is there. Raven has unconditional love and support for Dennis and this helps him become a stronger person. Raven is a inspiration for others and he is in awe of the survivor that Dennis is. Although Raven is dealing with his own world and expectations he doesn’t allow this to stop him from helping Dennis as well. Watching him fall in love with Dennis and show patience and guidance is incredible. So is seeing Raven figure out his life and finding a way to be who he wants while still helping his tribe and others.
Dennis grows the most in this wonderful journey of love. He begins as a scared rabbit and emerges a stronger more confident person. We get to see the reasons why Dennis did things he did. I think getting the job to help Raven’s tribe changed Dennis in many ways. For this is how he met Raven, learned about himself, found love and support that gave him a reason to want more and to fight. Raven was Dennis’s rock. He helped Dennis by showing kindness and support. he was there for Dennis even when he didn’t think he was. Watching Dennis stand up to his parents and fight was incredible to see. He became his own person and allowed love to shine.
This is the amazing, incredible and inspirational story of two young men both trapped in similar worlds of expectations and fear. One’s fear is of not being what everyone desires for him and not contributing to the tribe he loves so much. The other’s is of losing Maria and himself. Of his parents. It is of the journey of Raven finding Dennis and accepting him. Showing him friendship and love and supporting him no matter what. Of being there for him even when he wasn’t. That kindness is what Dennis needed to gain strength to fight. It is of the story of finding love and having that love help you to fight and become who you want to be. Dennis has so many struggles throughout this book and you just feel for him. He is conflicted and scared but it is Raven who helps him and guides him. Dennis learns so much about himself in this book and who he wants to be with and be. We see two young men both bound by expectations find their way to be who they were meant to be and find love with one another. Two very strong characters one that you will not like at first but will truly feel for throughout and the other you will love immediately.
A wonderfully written beautifully told love story and journey of two young men in becoming free of the chains binding them to fear and expectations and finding themselves and love with one another along the way.
Raven and Dennis are different but the same. They both are pressured by parents and don’t want to let them down. For different reasons though. Raven’s pressure is to help better the tribe and be successful. His parents are proud of him even if he didn’t realize this until the end. They just wanted what they thought was best for him and everyone as a whole. Dennis had fear. He feared his parents and what they would do. they come off as Ozzie and Harriet but really they were Chuckie and his bride. I mean they are truly horrible people. He was also trying to help Maria. For Dennis home was a prison a true prison. For Raven his prison wasn’t literal but figurative because he felt he couldn’t spread his wings and be who he was meant to because of all the expectations on him.
My favorite character was Raven’s grandfather. That was one wise, kind patient man. He helped Dennis and Raven on their path to finding each other and themselves. He was accepting and loving and didn’t judge. A great side character.
The story of Raven and Dennis and how they find love with each other is filled with so many emotions. We see serious issues tackled like abuse, expectations, and becoming an adult. We see the pressures of family and expectations. But we see two people who like each other and explore this attraction. Raven is kind and patient. He sees more than one thinks and is there for Dennis. He is honest and shows Dennis that no matter what he is there. Raven has unconditional love and support for Dennis and this helps him become a stronger person. Raven is a inspiration for others and he is in awe of the survivor that Dennis is. Although Raven is dealing with his own world and expectations he doesn’t allow this to stop him from helping Dennis as well. Watching him fall in love with Dennis and show patience and guidance is incredible. So is seeing Raven figure out his life and finding a way to be who he wants while still helping his tribe and others.
Dennis grows the most in this wonderful journey of love. He begins as a scared rabbit and emerges a stronger more confident person. We get to see the reasons why Dennis did things he did. I think getting the job to help Raven’s tribe changed Dennis in many ways. For this is how he met Raven, learned about himself, found love and support that gave him a reason to want more and to fight. Raven was Dennis’s rock. He helped Dennis by showing kindness and support. he was there for Dennis even when he didn’t think he was. Watching Dennis stand up to his parents and fight was incredible to see. He became his own person and allowed love to shine.
This is the amazing, incredible and inspirational story of two young men both trapped in similar worlds of expectations and fear. One’s fear is of not being what everyone desires for him and not contributing to the tribe he loves so much. The other’s is of losing Maria and himself. Of his parents. It is of the journey of Raven finding Dennis and accepting him. Showing him friendship and love and supporting him no matter what. Of being there for him even when he wasn’t. That kindness is what Dennis needed to gain strength to fight. It is of the story of finding love and having that love help you to fight and become who you want to be. Dennis has so many struggles throughout this book and you just feel for him. He is conflicted and scared but it is Raven who helps him and guides him. Dennis learns so much about himself in this book and who he wants to be with and be. We see two young men both bound by expectations find their way to be who they were meant to be and find love with one another. Two very strong characters one that you will not like at first but will truly feel for throughout and the other you will love immediately.
A wonderfully written beautifully told love story and journey of two young men in becoming free of the chains binding them to fear and expectations and finding themselves and love with one another along the way.
January 27, 2016
4.5 out of 5 stars
Description ~
Everyone wants the best for SCU student and tight end Raven Nez—and they know exactly what that is. Enter the NFL draft, become a big football hero, promote his tribe’s casino, and make a lot of money to help people on the reservation. Just one problem. Raven’s gay and he really wants to work with gay kids. Plus he figures a gay Native tight end will get flattened in the NFL. Then the casino board hires a talented student filmmaker to create ads for the tribal business and asks Raven to work with him. But the filmmaker is Dennis Hascomb, a guy with so much to hide and a life so ugly it’s beyond Raven’s understanding. Still he’s drawn to Dennis's pain and incredible ability to survive.
Captivated by Raven’s stories of the two-spirited and by the amazing joy of finally having a friend, Dennis knows he has to break free from everything he’s ever been taught was good—but that’s a struggle that could kill him and Raven too. Is there a chance for “the great red hope� and the “whitest guy on earth�? A future for the serpent and the raven?
My Review ~
Tackling the Tight End is the third book in the Long Pass Chronicles series. It's also best read in order as the main character Dennis is introduced and plays a significant role in Outing the Quarterback.
This book has a bit of a darker slant than previous books but don't let that chase you off from a well crafted story with solid characters. Raven and Dennis are struggling with choices and realities in their lives, that they are able to find each other ultimately helps both of them be stronger men. As their experiences would reveal a bit too much of the plot, I'll let you read the story and find that out for yourself.
Tackling the Tight End explores a bit inside the Native American culture and it's belief in the two-spirit. It uses the legend of the two-spirit to show the acceptance of those who are LGBT, like Raven and to explain that you love who you love. It's not the gender, appearance, or demeanor of the person that causes you to love them. It's simply that you love who you love for whatever reason is important to you.
This book also shows that our lives do not define who we are, who we are meant to be, or what path we walk in life. It shows how both Raven and Dennis become the men that they are destined to be due to their inner character and strength. Also that love CAN strengthen you enough to change the path that you are on to the path that you're meant to follow. While there are situations that might make you uncomfortable in this book, they were necessary to show what that character was facing, and how important it was for them to change.
I thoroughly fell head over heels for Raven from the start, and the story completely changed my viewpoint of Dennis from the first book. I highly recommend this one if you're a fan of the series or the author. Otherwise you should pick up the entire series and devour the goodness that is the Long Pass Chronicles.
Description ~
Everyone wants the best for SCU student and tight end Raven Nez—and they know exactly what that is. Enter the NFL draft, become a big football hero, promote his tribe’s casino, and make a lot of money to help people on the reservation. Just one problem. Raven’s gay and he really wants to work with gay kids. Plus he figures a gay Native tight end will get flattened in the NFL. Then the casino board hires a talented student filmmaker to create ads for the tribal business and asks Raven to work with him. But the filmmaker is Dennis Hascomb, a guy with so much to hide and a life so ugly it’s beyond Raven’s understanding. Still he’s drawn to Dennis's pain and incredible ability to survive.
Captivated by Raven’s stories of the two-spirited and by the amazing joy of finally having a friend, Dennis knows he has to break free from everything he’s ever been taught was good—but that’s a struggle that could kill him and Raven too. Is there a chance for “the great red hope� and the “whitest guy on earth�? A future for the serpent and the raven?
My Review ~
Tackling the Tight End is the third book in the Long Pass Chronicles series. It's also best read in order as the main character Dennis is introduced and plays a significant role in Outing the Quarterback.
This book has a bit of a darker slant than previous books but don't let that chase you off from a well crafted story with solid characters. Raven and Dennis are struggling with choices and realities in their lives, that they are able to find each other ultimately helps both of them be stronger men. As their experiences would reveal a bit too much of the plot, I'll let you read the story and find that out for yourself.
Tackling the Tight End explores a bit inside the Native American culture and it's belief in the two-spirit. It uses the legend of the two-spirit to show the acceptance of those who are LGBT, like Raven and to explain that you love who you love. It's not the gender, appearance, or demeanor of the person that causes you to love them. It's simply that you love who you love for whatever reason is important to you.
This book also shows that our lives do not define who we are, who we are meant to be, or what path we walk in life. It shows how both Raven and Dennis become the men that they are destined to be due to their inner character and strength. Also that love CAN strengthen you enough to change the path that you are on to the path that you're meant to follow. While there are situations that might make you uncomfortable in this book, they were necessary to show what that character was facing, and how important it was for them to change.
I thoroughly fell head over heels for Raven from the start, and the story completely changed my viewpoint of Dennis from the first book. I highly recommend this one if you're a fan of the series or the author. Otherwise you should pick up the entire series and devour the goodness that is the Long Pass Chronicles.
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