What do you think?
Rate this book
Island Love #2
Oyster
Low tides threw up all kinds of unexpected and random treasures. Wedding bands, hauls of driftwood, old bones worn smooth. Jaded oyster fisherman, Nico La Forge, had seen them all.
Or so he believed. Until cold, bedraggled, beautiful Éti Salvador washed up on the shore.
Nico had never been in love. Wasn’t even looking for love. With the body of a revolutionary hero and the face of the devil, Nico was the sort of man your mother warned you to stay away from.
But then, Nico had never come across an extraordinary individual like Éti Salvador before, divebombing the emotional wasteland of his heart and shaking it like a maraca.
And, overnight, everything changed.
(This queer romance features a relationship between a pansexual man and a trans woman.)
Or so he believed. Until cold, bedraggled, beautiful Éti Salvador washed up on the shore.
Nico had never been in love. Wasn’t even looking for love. With the body of a revolutionary hero and the face of the devil, Nico was the sort of man your mother warned you to stay away from.
But then, Nico had never come across an extraordinary individual like Éti Salvador before, divebombing the emotional wasteland of his heart and shaking it like a maraca.
And, overnight, everything changed.
(This queer romance features a relationship between a pansexual man and a trans woman.)
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 11, 2024
About the author
Fearne Hill
22 books296 followersFearne Hill resides far from the madding crowds in the county of Dorset, deep in the British countryside. She likes it that way.
Her queer romance, Two Tribes, was a finalist in the 2023 Lambda Literary Awards.
Her popular Rossingley series was nominated in nine separate categories of the 2021 Goodreads M/M Romance awards and received an Honourable Mention in the 2021 Rainbow Awards.
She can be found on social media and has a newsletter:
https://fearne-hill.mailerpage.io/
Join her Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/11724...
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fearnehill_...
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/FearneHill
On Bookbub:https://www.bookbub.com/profile/fearn...
She also writes very brief and not especially insightful book reviews here on GR...
Her queer romance, Two Tribes, was a finalist in the 2023 Lambda Literary Awards.
Her popular Rossingley series was nominated in nine separate categories of the 2021 Goodreads M/M Romance awards and received an Honourable Mention in the 2021 Rainbow Awards.
She can be found on social media and has a newsletter:
https://fearne-hill.mailerpage.io/
Join her Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/11724...
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fearnehill_...
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/FearneHill
On Bookbub:https://www.bookbub.com/profile/fearn...
She also writes very brief and not especially insightful book reviews here on GR...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
August 2, 2024
✰ 3.25 stars ✰
“Éti’s universe was a self-centred, narrow little cell, whether she wanted it that way or not. Did it have room for a grieving oyster farmer?”
I debated internally for the longest time about whether or not I should voice my opinion on a certain point, but I think I'll only know peace in my head, if I do express myself. I think - not the promotion of Oyster, but how it was labeled, was very messy. 😒 As in, it went from being categorized as an MM Romance to finally an MF Romance, when it was eventually read and revealed to be a MF queer romance between a male and a trans woman. For all that the book celebrates trans joy, the very fact that the author and publication team chose NOT to mention it beforehand - either not to scare away readers for not being aware beforehand - seems unsettling and just wrong. 😕 Is it not the same thing as discrediting her very existence? Too worried to mention it for fear of rejection from the readers? I felt - not duped - but quite perturbed by the purposeful way in which the blurb not only deliberately chose not to mention anything regarding it, but also that it feels a very distasteful way of marketing it. It makes me wonder why it was ambivalent about it at all? 🤔
Well, I just had to get it off my chest. 🤷🏻♀️
“In that brief sliver of time, I’d captured joy and sunshine, and everything good in between.”
Fo once Éti got over her initial distrust of whether or not proud and hard-working twenty-eight year old Nicolas La Forge of La Forge Oyster Farms would not reveal to the world that she was also Étienne Salvador, le petit danseur - a mystery, a closed book, the famous football player whose name had already reserved its place in the history books, their romance was quite sweet and heartwarming. For Nico - 'ordinary, unpolished, fickle, a bit of a loner, and very poor boyfriend material - who has only ever had casual hook-up with women, Éti is a breath of fresh air - a lively spirit who enlivens and brightens up his dark and dreary world - so addled with troubles and concerns for his mother that the fulfillment of happiness she breathes into his life is one that he soon cannot imagine living without. He was so patient and loving; I loved how he would get riled up on Éti's behalf, whenever someone said something against her. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
Much like its predecessor, the book is heavy on mental health, this time being Nico and his family coping with the grief of his mother's fight with cancer. 😢 It is a heavy loss, one shrouded with grief, burdensome with loneliness and heartache that is difficult for each family member to fight off, especially for Nico, who is trying his best to hold it together for his family. At times, I did feel that the emotional struggle of their loss overshadowed the romance, but perhaps this is one of the facets of the Island Love series; combining love and loss into one to depict a beautiful connection between two unsuspecting souls. 🫂
“We made love cautiously, with a slow tender beat, her edges and my edges blurring into one.”
Cautious being the key word here, which I would like to touch upon. The writing was very poetic and not exactly flowery, but - pretty. Their intimacy felt genuine and warm - their first kiss, despite Éti's vulnerability of being so new to it all, was so fitting to their dynamic - how it was a new experience for both of them - 'two kids exploring each other’s mouths and throats, discovering the hidden dips and hollows that made the other sigh and hold on tighter.' 🥹 Their relationship is described with such care and tenderness - so gentle and soft that you almost felt like there was some restraint on not showcasing anything more. And that bothered me a little. I do agree that the author was very respectful and considerate in how they highlighted the dynamics of their romance, I do. But, I also felt that it was being cautious about saying something out of line or hurtful - too focused on emphasizing that Éti was trans, that there existed a slight hesitation to it. I also felt it a disservice NOT to have Éti's point of view, because it would have been helpful and nice to her perspective on certain moments in her life. 😔
Because Éti was a delight; she had such a vivacity and charm - her lighthearted humor and joie de vivre was contagious. Just wanting to live her best life the way she always wanted to - without fear or prejudice or shame. Having Éti at Nico's side during his darkest of days was a blessing; she was so affectionate, so open-hearted, so considerate of his emotional pain and an unconditional and unwavering support throughout. 🥰 How she encouraged him to have a little more faith in himself and trust in the good in others. So, I would have liked to have known a little bit about her on the inside - her fears and doubts about Nico's love for her - or own emotional onslaught of braving two faces for the world to see. As much as I also appreciated how loving and caring her teammates were and visiting the soccer arena alongside their adoring screaming fans, it would have added an extra touch to see if she was afraid of their reactions or how she balanced being a soccer player and keeping her true self a secret. 🥺
“Joy takes fewer words than hate. And when you find joy, hold on to any piece of it, because a lot of people will try to take it away from you.”
I still did enjoy reading it; it had some very lovely and emotional moments that touched upon how important it is to let love shine. I loved seeing Charles and Flor again, along with how they reacted to Éti's arrival into Nico's life. The sensory details were still as picturesque as ever, and I applaud how much heart and care is put into highlighting the oyster business and have it flow seamlessly into a part of their relationship. 🦪 Nico's family was so welcoming and wholesome; despite their grief, they deeply cared for each other, and I loved how Nico was so worried about his younger brother, Max, who has selective mutism and who is carrying his own demons that Nico is concerned about. With how the ending set the stage for a whole new chapter for everyone involved, I am looking forward to seeing how the author approaches his story next. 💌
“Éti’s universe was a self-centred, narrow little cell, whether she wanted it that way or not. Did it have room for a grieving oyster farmer?”
I debated internally for the longest time about whether or not I should voice my opinion on a certain point, but I think I'll only know peace in my head, if I do express myself. I think - not the promotion of Oyster, but how it was labeled, was very messy. 😒 As in, it went from being categorized as an MM Romance to finally an MF Romance, when it was eventually read and revealed to be a MF queer romance between a male and a trans woman. For all that the book celebrates trans joy, the very fact that the author and publication team chose NOT to mention it beforehand - either not to scare away readers for not being aware beforehand - seems unsettling and just wrong. 😕 Is it not the same thing as discrediting her very existence? Too worried to mention it for fear of rejection from the readers? I felt - not duped - but quite perturbed by the purposeful way in which the blurb not only deliberately chose not to mention anything regarding it, but also that it feels a very distasteful way of marketing it. It makes me wonder why it was ambivalent about it at all? 🤔
Well, I just had to get it off my chest. 🤷🏻♀️
“In that brief sliver of time, I’d captured joy and sunshine, and everything good in between.”
Fo once Éti got over her initial distrust of whether or not proud and hard-working twenty-eight year old Nicolas La Forge of La Forge Oyster Farms would not reveal to the world that she was also Étienne Salvador, le petit danseur - a mystery, a closed book, the famous football player whose name had already reserved its place in the history books, their romance was quite sweet and heartwarming. For Nico - 'ordinary, unpolished, fickle, a bit of a loner, and very poor boyfriend material - who has only ever had casual hook-up with women, Éti is a breath of fresh air - a lively spirit who enlivens and brightens up his dark and dreary world - so addled with troubles and concerns for his mother that the fulfillment of happiness she breathes into his life is one that he soon cannot imagine living without. He was so patient and loving; I loved how he would get riled up on Éti's behalf, whenever someone said something against her. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
Much like its predecessor, the book is heavy on mental health, this time being Nico and his family coping with the grief of his mother's fight with cancer. 😢 It is a heavy loss, one shrouded with grief, burdensome with loneliness and heartache that is difficult for each family member to fight off, especially for Nico, who is trying his best to hold it together for his family. At times, I did feel that the emotional struggle of their loss overshadowed the romance, but perhaps this is one of the facets of the Island Love series; combining love and loss into one to depict a beautiful connection between two unsuspecting souls. 🫂
“We made love cautiously, with a slow tender beat, her edges and my edges blurring into one.”
Cautious being the key word here, which I would like to touch upon. The writing was very poetic and not exactly flowery, but - pretty. Their intimacy felt genuine and warm - their first kiss, despite Éti's vulnerability of being so new to it all, was so fitting to their dynamic - how it was a new experience for both of them - 'two kids exploring each other’s mouths and throats, discovering the hidden dips and hollows that made the other sigh and hold on tighter.' 🥹 Their relationship is described with such care and tenderness - so gentle and soft that you almost felt like there was some restraint on not showcasing anything more. And that bothered me a little. I do agree that the author was very respectful and considerate in how they highlighted the dynamics of their romance, I do. But, I also felt that it was being cautious about saying something out of line or hurtful - too focused on emphasizing that Éti was trans, that there existed a slight hesitation to it. I also felt it a disservice NOT to have Éti's point of view, because it would have been helpful and nice to her perspective on certain moments in her life. 😔
Because Éti was a delight; she had such a vivacity and charm - her lighthearted humor and joie de vivre was contagious. Just wanting to live her best life the way she always wanted to - without fear or prejudice or shame. Having Éti at Nico's side during his darkest of days was a blessing; she was so affectionate, so open-hearted, so considerate of his emotional pain and an unconditional and unwavering support throughout. 🥰 How she encouraged him to have a little more faith in himself and trust in the good in others. So, I would have liked to have known a little bit about her on the inside - her fears and doubts about Nico's love for her - or own emotional onslaught of braving two faces for the world to see. As much as I also appreciated how loving and caring her teammates were and visiting the soccer arena alongside their adoring screaming fans, it would have added an extra touch to see if she was afraid of their reactions or how she balanced being a soccer player and keeping her true self a secret. 🥺
“Joy takes fewer words than hate. And when you find joy, hold on to any piece of it, because a lot of people will try to take it away from you.”
I still did enjoy reading it; it had some very lovely and emotional moments that touched upon how important it is to let love shine. I loved seeing Charles and Flor again, along with how they reacted to Éti's arrival into Nico's life. The sensory details were still as picturesque as ever, and I applaud how much heart and care is put into highlighting the oyster business and have it flow seamlessly into a part of their relationship. 🦪 Nico's family was so welcoming and wholesome; despite their grief, they deeply cared for each other, and I loved how Nico was so worried about his younger brother, Max, who has selective mutism and who is carrying his own demons that Nico is concerned about. With how the ending set the stage for a whole new chapter for everyone involved, I am looking forward to seeing how the author approaches his story next. 💌
August 2, 2024
I have a lot of thoughts about Oyster by the wonderful Fearne Hill. Most are good, some are critical, so I'm going to share with you the good, bad, and ugly.
I went into this book knowing it was a queer romance with a trans female MC, and I was excited about that. I very much enjoy reading romances with trans characters, though I usually seek them out from trans authors. I tend to find that non-trans authors treat their MCs with kid gloves, which I found to be true a bit here as well.
First of all, Fearne Hill is a beautiful writer, and she wrote this book with expressive, evocative language. I felt like I was right there in the story, on the French coast. I very much enjoyed the descriptions of everyone, especially the side characters, who are all falling apart due to the mom's impending death from cancer. The emotions were heightened, for sure, and the author really allowed the readers to feel everything.
For the romance, I enjoyed the slow-ish burn and the evolving physical and emotional aspects of their relationship, but I felt like it was a bit... shmoopy. There was no real tension or disagreements between the MCs, and it felt like Eti could do no wrong. Nico was just smitten and showered constant flattery on Eti, and it all felt very... one note. I can't describe it, but I wish the couple had something more gritty about them. It was very fairytale, and I wanted a bit more realism. Yes, I know this is romance, but the other characters were all flawed and had issues, so I wish we got more of that with the main couple. Don't get me wrong, I think their romance was lovely, but it was almost too smooth for me.
I also can't really make up my mind as to how Eti was received at the end by her family and friends without giving away spoilers, but I know if the situation was analogous to the US, it would have been a huge deal and not nearly as smooth, I fear. I'm curious if the telling was just wishful thinking or if Europe is just more evolved than we are.
I found the overall plot of the story to be very compelling. I didn't want to put it down, and I read it quickly. I still think Fearne Hill's "Surfing the Waves" series to be my favorite, but this was a very lovely read.
*~*Follow me on instagram for more reviews, book talk, and deals posts*~*
I went into this book knowing it was a queer romance with a trans female MC, and I was excited about that. I very much enjoy reading romances with trans characters, though I usually seek them out from trans authors. I tend to find that non-trans authors treat their MCs with kid gloves, which I found to be true a bit here as well.
First of all, Fearne Hill is a beautiful writer, and she wrote this book with expressive, evocative language. I felt like I was right there in the story, on the French coast. I very much enjoyed the descriptions of everyone, especially the side characters, who are all falling apart due to the mom's impending death from cancer. The emotions were heightened, for sure, and the author really allowed the readers to feel everything.
For the romance, I enjoyed the slow-ish burn and the evolving physical and emotional aspects of their relationship, but I felt like it was a bit... shmoopy. There was no real tension or disagreements between the MCs, and it felt like Eti could do no wrong. Nico was just smitten and showered constant flattery on Eti, and it all felt very... one note. I can't describe it, but I wish the couple had something more gritty about them. It was very fairytale, and I wanted a bit more realism. Yes, I know this is romance, but the other characters were all flawed and had issues, so I wish we got more of that with the main couple. Don't get me wrong, I think their romance was lovely, but it was almost too smooth for me.
I also can't really make up my mind as to how Eti was received at the end by her family and friends without giving away spoilers, but I know if the situation was analogous to the US, it would have been a huge deal and not nearly as smooth, I fear. I'm curious if the telling was just wishful thinking or if Europe is just more evolved than we are.
I found the overall plot of the story to be very compelling. I didn't want to put it down, and I read it quickly. I still think Fearne Hill's "Surfing the Waves" series to be my favorite, but this was a very lovely read.
*~*Follow me on instagram for more reviews, book talk, and deals posts*~*
Read
July 1, 2024Edited to add: I am pleased to see the blurb now has an additional line to say this is an MF romance. Doesn't really make up for misleading the arc readers and people who pre-ordered, but hopefully new readers will be aware. Original comments below.
DNF- no rating. If I'd gone into this knowing it was an MF romance with a transwoman, it would have probably been 5 stars from me. I love Fearne Hill's writing and I'm not put off by trans characters of any gender. What I am upset about is the deception. The author has gone to a great deal of trouble to remove any mention of gender or pronouns from the blurb, and although the promo material mentions there's a trans character, the author is famous for MM romance so it seems reasonable to assume the trans person is a trans man. The author knew full well everyone would think it was another MM book, so I feel that I have been deliberately deceived, and I'm pretty pissed off about it. Taking your readers for fools is not a good look. Those of us who read mostly or exclusively MM are likely to be annoyed by the bait-and-switch, and the readers who want MF with a trans heroine are likely to miss it altogether. I feel very cheated by all this, and I really don't think it's too much to ask to know the pairing and the gender of the characters before starting a book, particularly as gender dysphoria can be a major trigger. I've slept on it, and wanted to try the book again, but unfortunately every time I go to open the book I get so irritated with the deceit I can't think about anything else. If the author had been upfront I would definitely have read and probably have loved it, but I can't get past the casual manipulation and disregard for readers' feelings.
DNF- no rating. If I'd gone into this knowing it was an MF romance with a transwoman, it would have probably been 5 stars from me. I love Fearne Hill's writing and I'm not put off by trans characters of any gender. What I am upset about is the deception. The author has gone to a great deal of trouble to remove any mention of gender or pronouns from the blurb, and although the promo material mentions there's a trans character, the author is famous for MM romance so it seems reasonable to assume the trans person is a trans man. The author knew full well everyone would think it was another MM book, so I feel that I have been deliberately deceived, and I'm pretty pissed off about it. Taking your readers for fools is not a good look. Those of us who read mostly or exclusively MM are likely to be annoyed by the bait-and-switch, and the readers who want MF with a trans heroine are likely to miss it altogether. I feel very cheated by all this, and I really don't think it's too much to ask to know the pairing and the gender of the characters before starting a book, particularly as gender dysphoria can be a major trigger. I've slept on it, and wanted to try the book again, but unfortunately every time I go to open the book I get so irritated with the deceit I can't think about anything else. If the author had been upfront I would definitely have read and probably have loved it, but I can't get past the casual manipulation and disregard for readers' feelings.
July 8, 2024
Absolutely freaking gorgeous. Hands down, one of my favourite reads of the year.
I even loved it more than "Salt", and I didn't think that was possible. Fearne Hill, the writer you are! *stands in awe* god, I feel like I've suddenly lost a limb; I never wanted to leave Nico and Éti, and their family and their friends and the small, wonderful island they live on.
Nico and Éti's romance stole my whole freaking heart and soul. It's soft and gorgeous and lovely, heart-wrenching in the best way possible, so gentle and loving and yeah, just perfect. Fearne Hill has a gift: she writes such soft and lovely stories that always feel intense and real (and you'll feel like you've been run over by a truck carrying all these pesky, pesky feels), but they also never feel like too much either. Like she states in her blurbs, she writes with a light touch, but never, ever with a halfhearted or a hurried one. I'm literally soooo in love with Fearne Hill's writing; I can't believe I still haven't devoured the whole of her backlist yet. I think I need to remedy that ASAP.
Anyway, back to "Oyster", this book was a surprise. I knew this was going to be a MF romance ( with a trans female character!!! I freaking couldn't wait *heart eyes*), but it still managed to catch me by surprise with how gentle, how warm, how lovely it was, despite it being quite angsty (mind the TWs!), and how freaking wonderful both Nico and Éti were. I was already intrigued by Nico in "Salt", but here he stole my heart. He's so great, so patient, so good, so supportive. The best partner, the best brother, the best son; and despite the fact that he goes through quite a lot of pain and grief during the duration of this novel, he still managed to stay himself: an unrepentant flirt, a hardworking farmer, a simple man, but a freaking good one. The absolute best.
And Éti! God, where do I start?! She, as well, stole my whole heart. Despite the privileges her career secures her, she's vulnerable and terrified and insecure, but also 100% unapologetically herself. She's brave and good and loud and brash, and so delightfully innocent and loving it made me want to jump into the book and smother her in pillows and blankets. I loved her sooooo, so much, and I loved how she loved football (I refuse to call it soccer, sorry to my US-friends <3) and I loved how dorky and mouthy she was, how she's not a mysterious woman AT ALL (she's a yapper!!!!! My favourite kind of woman <3 i loved that Nico loved that side of her too LOL), and yeah. I only wished we could have had a few chapters from her POV, because I was so desperate to know what went on in her head.
< “What the hell was that for?” “It was the only way I could think of shutting you up.” “Waouh.” Almost bewildered, she rubbed with her fingertips at her thoroughly kissable mouth, then gave a funny, choked laugh. “Grab my face and shut me up again. But for longer this time.” >
Nico and Éti's romance was the best thing ever. Joyful and loving and respectful, but still intense and fraught with fears and insecurities... and the best thing? The way both of them stay true to one another throughout the novel. Their relationship isn't an easy one, but it's packed with so much joy and easy love and deep care, it reads like a gentle breeze on your skin. The most perfect summer read.
< So by the time it came around to collecting the empty plates, sharing the washing up, and then collapsing onto the sofas in the sitting room, Charles beamed at Éti as if he’d found his new bezzie for life, Flor’s eyes darted between both of them like a proud mother hen, and I sat there in a haze of red wine and love for everyone, wondering how the hell I’d got so damned lucky. >
"Oyster" isn't a dark read, but it's an intense one: it tackles quite a few tough themes, from grief and loss to transphobia. But despite that, it never feels too heavy. I admit I did shed quite a few ugly tears at one point: this book is an emotional rollercoaster ride, where joy and grief, fear and love, live side by side, and despite that, it was still an absolute joy to read.
I loved seeing a few old faces (Charles and Flor <3) and I loved getting to know the La Forge family a bit more (), and I loved the football shenanigans too. Reading this book during the Euros? I'd totally recommend. It hyped me up even more (despite Italy being knocked out *grumbles*). Also, seeing the whole La Forge family bond over football is something sooo relatable too, as I expect it is for any football-loving household: it made me smile.
Anyway, back to Nico and Éti: these two dorks stole my heart, and if I could read 1000 pages more of them being cute and in love, my heart would be satisfied.
Those last few chapters were absolute perfection: I sighed, I cried, I swooned, I laughed, then I smiled so hard my cheeks hurt. I can't wait for "Vine".
TWs/CWs: close family member with cancer, grief, death of a family member, instances of transphobia, misgendering and deadnaming.
Thanks GRR for the ARC. This is my honest review.
I even loved it more than "Salt", and I didn't think that was possible. Fearne Hill, the writer you are! *stands in awe* god, I feel like I've suddenly lost a limb; I never wanted to leave Nico and Éti, and their family and their friends and the small, wonderful island they live on.
Nico and Éti's romance stole my whole freaking heart and soul. It's soft and gorgeous and lovely, heart-wrenching in the best way possible, so gentle and loving and yeah, just perfect. Fearne Hill has a gift: she writes such soft and lovely stories that always feel intense and real (and you'll feel like you've been run over by a truck carrying all these pesky, pesky feels), but they also never feel like too much either. Like she states in her blurbs, she writes with a light touch, but never, ever with a halfhearted or a hurried one. I'm literally soooo in love with Fearne Hill's writing; I can't believe I still haven't devoured the whole of her backlist yet. I think I need to remedy that ASAP.
Anyway, back to "Oyster", this book was a surprise. I knew this was going to be a MF romance ( with a trans female character!!! I freaking couldn't wait *heart eyes*), but it still managed to catch me by surprise with how gentle, how warm, how lovely it was, despite it being quite angsty (mind the TWs!), and how freaking wonderful both Nico and Éti were. I was already intrigued by Nico in "Salt", but here he stole my heart. He's so great, so patient, so good, so supportive. The best partner, the best brother, the best son; and despite the fact that he goes through quite a lot of pain and grief during the duration of this novel, he still managed to stay himself: an unrepentant flirt, a hardworking farmer, a simple man, but a freaking good one. The absolute best.
And Éti! God, where do I start?! She, as well, stole my whole heart. Despite the privileges her career secures her, she's vulnerable and terrified and insecure, but also 100% unapologetically herself. She's brave and good and loud and brash, and so delightfully innocent and loving it made me want to jump into the book and smother her in pillows and blankets. I loved her sooooo, so much, and I loved how she loved football (I refuse to call it soccer, sorry to my US-friends <3) and I loved how dorky and mouthy she was, how she's not a mysterious woman AT ALL (she's a yapper!!!!! My favourite kind of woman <3 i loved that Nico loved that side of her too LOL), and yeah. I only wished we could have had a few chapters from her POV, because I was so desperate to know what went on in her head.
< “What the hell was that for?” “It was the only way I could think of shutting you up.” “Waouh.” Almost bewildered, she rubbed with her fingertips at her thoroughly kissable mouth, then gave a funny, choked laugh. “Grab my face and shut me up again. But for longer this time.” >
Nico and Éti's romance was the best thing ever. Joyful and loving and respectful, but still intense and fraught with fears and insecurities... and the best thing? The way both of them stay true to one another throughout the novel. Their relationship isn't an easy one, but it's packed with so much joy and easy love and deep care, it reads like a gentle breeze on your skin. The most perfect summer read.
< So by the time it came around to collecting the empty plates, sharing the washing up, and then collapsing onto the sofas in the sitting room, Charles beamed at Éti as if he’d found his new bezzie for life, Flor’s eyes darted between both of them like a proud mother hen, and I sat there in a haze of red wine and love for everyone, wondering how the hell I’d got so damned lucky. >
"Oyster" isn't a dark read, but it's an intense one: it tackles quite a few tough themes, from grief and loss to transphobia. But despite that, it never feels too heavy. I admit I did shed quite a few ugly tears at one point: this book is an emotional rollercoaster ride, where joy and grief, fear and love, live side by side, and despite that, it was still an absolute joy to read.
I loved seeing a few old faces (Charles and Flor <3) and I loved getting to know the La Forge family a bit more (), and I loved the football shenanigans too. Reading this book during the Euros? I'd totally recommend. It hyped me up even more (despite Italy being knocked out *grumbles*). Also, seeing the whole La Forge family bond over football is something sooo relatable too, as I expect it is for any football-loving household: it made me smile.
Anyway, back to Nico and Éti: these two dorks stole my heart, and if I could read 1000 pages more of them being cute and in love, my heart would be satisfied.
Those last few chapters were absolute perfection: I sighed, I cried, I swooned, I laughed, then I smiled so hard my cheeks hurt. I can't wait for "Vine".
TWs/CWs: close family member with cancer, grief, death of a family member, instances of transphobia, misgendering and deadnaming.
Thanks GRR for the ARC. This is my honest review.
June 23, 2024
5 stars
So so good! Emotional beautiful, painful, hopeful, this story has it all.
Nico and Eti are at a breaking point in their lives when they met: Nico's mom is dying and his family (dad, little brother and little sister) is disintegrating under his very eyes, his dad is heavily drinking, his brother's selective mutism is back and his sister doesn't come out of her room. Plus a very demanding job at their oysters farm. Nico is sad for his mom and he lost every hope to keep his family together.
Eti is a woman in the body of a very famous, very talented male footballer, no one knows her real self, she doesn't know love nor intimacy, her body and talent made her adored by millions of fans, but they love Etienne, not Eti.
I adored that, since their first meeting, even when Nico recognised Eti as a football player, he never messed up her pronouns, never misgendered her. He saw a beautiful woman and he was attracted to her at first sight.
They start a very romantic relationship, Eti is so happy with Nico, she finally doesn't have to hide anymore, but the path of self acceptance is hard. Eti doesn't like her body and the intimacy between them is very hard at the beginning.
Nico is a true guardian angel and he does everything to support and protect her.
Nico's mum story is very sad but also very well written, The author really did a great job portraying all the different sides of grief, how they all reacted differently.
Florian (the MC of the previous book of the series, Salt) is amazing here, he's the best of friends, he's supportive, he gives all the right advices, he help Nico both with his grief and with his relationship with Eti.
I adored every second of this book, especially the last chapters, and I hope we'll see both Eti and Nico in the next of the series, Max's story.
This book is set in Europe, so I'm using the term football instead of soccer.
I received an ARC of this book from ForewordPR and this is my honest review
So so good! Emotional beautiful, painful, hopeful, this story has it all.
Nico and Eti are at a breaking point in their lives when they met: Nico's mom is dying and his family (dad, little brother and little sister) is disintegrating under his very eyes, his dad is heavily drinking, his brother's selective mutism is back and his sister doesn't come out of her room. Plus a very demanding job at their oysters farm. Nico is sad for his mom and he lost every hope to keep his family together.
Eti is a woman in the body of a very famous, very talented male footballer, no one knows her real self, she doesn't know love nor intimacy, her body and talent made her adored by millions of fans, but they love Etienne, not Eti.
I adored that, since their first meeting, even when Nico recognised Eti as a football player, he never messed up her pronouns, never misgendered her. He saw a beautiful woman and he was attracted to her at first sight.
They start a very romantic relationship, Eti is so happy with Nico, she finally doesn't have to hide anymore, but the path of self acceptance is hard. Eti doesn't like her body and the intimacy between them is very hard at the beginning.
Nico is a true guardian angel and he does everything to support and protect her.
Nico's mum story is very sad but also very well written, The author really did a great job portraying all the different sides of grief, how they all reacted differently.
Florian (the MC of the previous book of the series, Salt) is amazing here, he's the best of friends, he's supportive, he gives all the right advices, he help Nico both with his grief and with his relationship with Eti.
I adored every second of this book, especially the last chapters, and I hope we'll see both Eti and Nico in the next of the series, Max's story.
This book is set in Europe, so I'm using the term football instead of soccer.
I received an ARC of this book from ForewordPR and this is my honest review
September 25, 2024
A- / 4.5 stars rounded up
As Fearne Hill is known primarily for writing m/m romance, I’m opening this review by making potential readers aware that Oyster, the second book in her Island Love series, is a queer m/f romance featuring a transwoman protagonist. As I’ve come to expect from this author, we’re treated to a beautifully written and emotionally satisfying romance between two complex and interesting characters in which the issues they both face are handled in a sensitive and sympathetic manner. It’s warm and funny and poignant, and while it doesn’t quite hit the heights of the previous book, it’s nonetheless a fabulous read.
Set once again on the Île de Ré off the Western coast of France, the book opens with Nico la Forge, best friend of Florian ( Salt ) and farmer of the island’s finest oysters, coming to the aid of a young woman - who has clearly had too much to drink - sitting in the waves of the incoming tide. She says her name is Éti when he helps her up, and he escorts her off the beach and up into one of the secluded holiday homes that belong to the rich and famous, intending to deposit her into the arms of her family and leave. But when she reveals she’s there alone - and Nico finds the half-empty bottle of vodka and the trail of pills along the floor – he realises his plans for a quick exit will have to be set aside. Managing to ascertain that while Éti did indeed drink the vodka, she didn’t down a load of pills with it, he’s helping her to get comfortable on the sofa when he finally gets a good look at her face. And it’s one that is very, very familiar to any French person not living under a rock. For looking up at Nico is the face of Étienne Salvador, star of Paris St. Germain and one of the most famous footballers in the world. Merde.
Éti may be drunk, but she’s not insensible and immediately assumes the worst, that as soon as Nico leaves, he’ll be on the phone to the media. He’s confused at first and wonders why she’d think he’d do that – he’s tired after a long night harvesting oysters – but then understands and insists he has no intention of telling anyone about her, but Éti doesn’t believe him.
When, two days later, Éti tracks him down and offers him a very large sum of money to keep quiet about what he learned, Nico isn’t completely surprised – but insists that he doesn’t want her money. As far as he’s concerned, Éti is Éti; Étienne Salvador is someone Nico has never met, a celebrated professional footballer and winner of many prestigious awards while Éti is a charming, whimsical and funny young woman he’s coming to realise he’d like to know better. He continues to refuse to take Éti’s money, although he agrees to sign an NDA if it’ll make her feel more secure.
The way Nico simply accepts Éti is wonderful to read and reaffirms one’s faith in the goodness of people in a world that so often seems full of bigotry and hatred. He never misgenders her, doesn’t miss a beat when he recognises her and he really listens when she explains how difficult it’s been for her to live a lie and how she doesn’t think she’ll be able to stand to do it for much longer. To Nico she really is ‘just’ Éti – a bubbly, vibrant chatterbox with a big heart and a great sense of humour who simply wants to be able to live her life as her most authentic self.
But as Nico is falling hard for Éti, other aspects of his life are falling apart. His mother is terminally ill (from breast cancer) and Nico is struggling to hold his family together as they all try to come to terms with what is just around the corner. Nico’s father spends the time he isn’t working getting drunk, his sister rarely emerges from her room, and he worries that his younger brother, Max, who was diagnosed with selective mutism as a child, is becoming less communicative with every passing day. Nico doesn’t know what to do. He’s trying to be there for everyone, but he’s floundering, just as they all are, and worries he’s not doing the right thing for any of them. Fortunately, he has Florian on his side to support him and give advice, and although it takes Nico a while to open up to Éti about his mother’s illness, once he does, she’s determined to be there for him while he supports his family as best he can.
Fearne Hill writes with insight and sensitivity and does an excellent job of balancing the emotional highs and lows of her story so that, while grief and loss feature prominently, Oyster is nonetheless an uplifting read. Nico and Éti are likeable, well-drawn characters who are both at a turning point when they meet – Nico, facing the imminent death of his mother, Éti, knowing that she can’t live a lie for much longer – and I loved that they find each other just when they most need to. Not because love magically fixes everything, but because finding your forever person when things are tough makes it just that little bit easier to deal with whatever life is throwing your way. Nico never expected or wanted to find love – he was happy playing the field and didn’t see any reason why that should stop - until he meets Éti. Éti’s joy at finally having found someone she can truly be herself with leaps off the page, although intimacy and sex is difficult to start with because she dislikes her (professional male athlete’s) body and worries Nico will not find her attractive when he sees it.
The small secondary cast includes Salt’s Florian - who is a wonderful best friend to Nico and will clearly be the same to Éti - and his partner, Charles, who has absolutely no idea who Éti is (which she finds incredibly refreshing) and takes her completely at face value. Nico’s brother, Max, is a sweetheart whose story is up next in Vine (out later this year).
Oyster is a beautiful story of love and grief and acceptance that addresses issues surrounding identity, sexuality and belonging in a subtle but impactful way. The romance reader in me was absolutely delighted at the novel’s ending; the pragmatist couldn’t help thinking that what the author depicts is a such a contrast to the reality for so many (especially in today’s political climate) – and how much I wish it wasn’t.
But romance novels are, by their very nature, meant to take us away from the everyday, even when they tackle difficult subjects – and Oyster does that extremely well. The island setting, Éti’s infectious delight in simply being herself and Nico’s unquestioning love and acceptance are lovely to read, and the balance of light and dark in the novel is very well done. I enjoyed it and am more than happy to offer a strong recommendation.
As Fearne Hill is known primarily for writing m/m romance, I’m opening this review by making potential readers aware that Oyster, the second book in her Island Love series, is a queer m/f romance featuring a transwoman protagonist. As I’ve come to expect from this author, we’re treated to a beautifully written and emotionally satisfying romance between two complex and interesting characters in which the issues they both face are handled in a sensitive and sympathetic manner. It’s warm and funny and poignant, and while it doesn’t quite hit the heights of the previous book, it’s nonetheless a fabulous read.
Set once again on the Île de Ré off the Western coast of France, the book opens with Nico la Forge, best friend of Florian ( Salt ) and farmer of the island’s finest oysters, coming to the aid of a young woman - who has clearly had too much to drink - sitting in the waves of the incoming tide. She says her name is Éti when he helps her up, and he escorts her off the beach and up into one of the secluded holiday homes that belong to the rich and famous, intending to deposit her into the arms of her family and leave. But when she reveals she’s there alone - and Nico finds the half-empty bottle of vodka and the trail of pills along the floor – he realises his plans for a quick exit will have to be set aside. Managing to ascertain that while Éti did indeed drink the vodka, she didn’t down a load of pills with it, he’s helping her to get comfortable on the sofa when he finally gets a good look at her face. And it’s one that is very, very familiar to any French person not living under a rock. For looking up at Nico is the face of Étienne Salvador, star of Paris St. Germain and one of the most famous footballers in the world. Merde.
Éti may be drunk, but she’s not insensible and immediately assumes the worst, that as soon as Nico leaves, he’ll be on the phone to the media. He’s confused at first and wonders why she’d think he’d do that – he’s tired after a long night harvesting oysters – but then understands and insists he has no intention of telling anyone about her, but Éti doesn’t believe him.
When, two days later, Éti tracks him down and offers him a very large sum of money to keep quiet about what he learned, Nico isn’t completely surprised – but insists that he doesn’t want her money. As far as he’s concerned, Éti is Éti; Étienne Salvador is someone Nico has never met, a celebrated professional footballer and winner of many prestigious awards while Éti is a charming, whimsical and funny young woman he’s coming to realise he’d like to know better. He continues to refuse to take Éti’s money, although he agrees to sign an NDA if it’ll make her feel more secure.
The way Nico simply accepts Éti is wonderful to read and reaffirms one’s faith in the goodness of people in a world that so often seems full of bigotry and hatred. He never misgenders her, doesn’t miss a beat when he recognises her and he really listens when she explains how difficult it’s been for her to live a lie and how she doesn’t think she’ll be able to stand to do it for much longer. To Nico she really is ‘just’ Éti – a bubbly, vibrant chatterbox with a big heart and a great sense of humour who simply wants to be able to live her life as her most authentic self.
But as Nico is falling hard for Éti, other aspects of his life are falling apart. His mother is terminally ill (from breast cancer) and Nico is struggling to hold his family together as they all try to come to terms with what is just around the corner. Nico’s father spends the time he isn’t working getting drunk, his sister rarely emerges from her room, and he worries that his younger brother, Max, who was diagnosed with selective mutism as a child, is becoming less communicative with every passing day. Nico doesn’t know what to do. He’s trying to be there for everyone, but he’s floundering, just as they all are, and worries he’s not doing the right thing for any of them. Fortunately, he has Florian on his side to support him and give advice, and although it takes Nico a while to open up to Éti about his mother’s illness, once he does, she’s determined to be there for him while he supports his family as best he can.
Fearne Hill writes with insight and sensitivity and does an excellent job of balancing the emotional highs and lows of her story so that, while grief and loss feature prominently, Oyster is nonetheless an uplifting read. Nico and Éti are likeable, well-drawn characters who are both at a turning point when they meet – Nico, facing the imminent death of his mother, Éti, knowing that she can’t live a lie for much longer – and I loved that they find each other just when they most need to. Not because love magically fixes everything, but because finding your forever person when things are tough makes it just that little bit easier to deal with whatever life is throwing your way. Nico never expected or wanted to find love – he was happy playing the field and didn’t see any reason why that should stop - until he meets Éti. Éti’s joy at finally having found someone she can truly be herself with leaps off the page, although intimacy and sex is difficult to start with because she dislikes her (professional male athlete’s) body and worries Nico will not find her attractive when he sees it.
The small secondary cast includes Salt’s Florian - who is a wonderful best friend to Nico and will clearly be the same to Éti - and his partner, Charles, who has absolutely no idea who Éti is (which she finds incredibly refreshing) and takes her completely at face value. Nico’s brother, Max, is a sweetheart whose story is up next in Vine (out later this year).
Oyster is a beautiful story of love and grief and acceptance that addresses issues surrounding identity, sexuality and belonging in a subtle but impactful way. The romance reader in me was absolutely delighted at the novel’s ending; the pragmatist couldn’t help thinking that what the author depicts is a such a contrast to the reality for so many (especially in today’s political climate) – and how much I wish it wasn’t.
But romance novels are, by their very nature, meant to take us away from the everyday, even when they tackle difficult subjects – and Oyster does that extremely well. The island setting, Éti’s infectious delight in simply being herself and Nico’s unquestioning love and acceptance are lovely to read, and the balance of light and dark in the novel is very well done. I enjoyed it and am more than happy to offer a strong recommendation.
July 12, 2024
Heartwarming and beautiful hurt-comfort MF queer romance
Fearne Hill’s not holding back the tears in this one, but it’s joyful overall. When oyster farmer Nico rescues a figure that’s appears to have washed up on the shore, he gets an armful of unexpected happiness in the grayness of his life, currently immersed in the sadness of his mother’s losing battle with cancer. Though he recognizes his mermaid for the high-profile personality she is in her other life, Nico is quick to acknowledge and appreciate the woman behind the façade, giving Éti a chance to be herself for the first time with another human being. And oh, how she shines.
After an initial bump and tension in which they have to clear up whether or not Éti can and will trust Nico not to give her identity away, their lively rapport and growing attraction feels organic and authentic, and shows two kind and struggling people finding their Person and letting feelings grow. We learn a little about oyster farming—fascinating! And I will never, ever, EVER eat an oyster, no thanks, but, they made the slimy, smelly things sound good!—as well as glimpses of the international stage Éti lives on.
Nico’s never dated anyone; he’s had years of casual hookups, all with women. Éti’s never been with anyone at all. Seeing them explore Éti’s comfort zones and take things slowly, working through her body dysmorphia and learning what worked for them was lovely and seemed respectful and full of true chemistry, to this layperson. Nico steps up for Éti every time, seeing her and loving her for all she is, and Éti’s there for him as he goes through the painful process of losing his mother, his family lynchpin, and trying to figure out what that means for him and his father and younger brother and sister for the future. Nico’s family is well-drawn and adds layers to his character, and we’re treated to cameos from previous heroes who live in this world, Florian and Charles, who are good support for this couple.
I did feel bad that I can’t judge, I’ve never been in that situation, but I wondered about that choice.
Overall, it’s a beautifully written story about two people who feel right for each other. I loved the solid, unconditional support Éti was shown by Nico and people she had every right to expect it from (although some very important people failed utterly—but they were overshadowed by the others!). There’s no information on the aftermath and possible fallout from the final events, just happy scenes later on, ending in a positive place, as a romance does.
HEA, hurt-comfort, trans woman, MF queer romance. No cheating or any others in any way, no other-person drama at all. Lovely story. Recommended.
Fearne Hill’s not holding back the tears in this one, but it’s joyful overall. When oyster farmer Nico rescues a figure that’s appears to have washed up on the shore, he gets an armful of unexpected happiness in the grayness of his life, currently immersed in the sadness of his mother’s losing battle with cancer. Though he recognizes his mermaid for the high-profile personality she is in her other life, Nico is quick to acknowledge and appreciate the woman behind the façade, giving Éti a chance to be herself for the first time with another human being. And oh, how she shines.
After an initial bump and tension in which they have to clear up whether or not Éti can and will trust Nico not to give her identity away, their lively rapport and growing attraction feels organic and authentic, and shows two kind and struggling people finding their Person and letting feelings grow. We learn a little about oyster farming—fascinating! And I will never, ever, EVER eat an oyster, no thanks, but, they made the slimy, smelly things sound good!—as well as glimpses of the international stage Éti lives on.
Nico’s never dated anyone; he’s had years of casual hookups, all with women. Éti’s never been with anyone at all. Seeing them explore Éti’s comfort zones and take things slowly, working through her body dysmorphia and learning what worked for them was lovely and seemed respectful and full of true chemistry, to this layperson. Nico steps up for Éti every time, seeing her and loving her for all she is, and Éti’s there for him as he goes through the painful process of losing his mother, his family lynchpin, and trying to figure out what that means for him and his father and younger brother and sister for the future. Nico’s family is well-drawn and adds layers to his character, and we’re treated to cameos from previous heroes who live in this world, Florian and Charles, who are good support for this couple.
I did feel bad that I can’t judge, I’ve never been in that situation, but I wondered about that choice.
Overall, it’s a beautifully written story about two people who feel right for each other. I loved the solid, unconditional support Éti was shown by Nico and people she had every right to expect it from (although some very important people failed utterly—but they were overshadowed by the others!). There’s no information on the aftermath and possible fallout from the final events, just happy scenes later on, ending in a positive place, as a romance does.
HEA, hurt-comfort, trans woman, MF queer romance. No cheating or any others in any way, no other-person drama at all. Lovely story. Recommended.
July 14, 2024
This book completely floored me and I am having to take a moment to compose myself to get this review down.
Oyster, by the brilliant Fearne Hill, is the second book in her Ile de Re series, set on the French coast. The first book, Salt was a gorgeous hurt comfort exploring themes rarely seen in M/M. Older M/C with medical issues that with Fearne's stunning prose turned into a heartwrenchingly beautiful read.
Oyster is completely different. Here we meet a family on the brink of collapse, and a pre-surgery pre-hormones trans woman who has hit a brick wall, trying to be who she truly is. The small fact that she is France's top ranked male footballer, the one and only Etienne Salvador, makes this story not only deliciously angsty but also an absolute delight.
There are triggerwarnings here, that hit me hard, and if you have lost a loved one to cancer, this book will push all your buttons, but strangely for me, in a comforting way.
This was the book I didn't know I needed.
Oyster, by the brilliant Fearne Hill, is the second book in her Ile de Re series, set on the French coast. The first book, Salt was a gorgeous hurt comfort exploring themes rarely seen in M/M. Older M/C with medical issues that with Fearne's stunning prose turned into a heartwrenchingly beautiful read.
Oyster is completely different. Here we meet a family on the brink of collapse, and a pre-surgery pre-hormones trans woman who has hit a brick wall, trying to be who she truly is. The small fact that she is France's top ranked male footballer, the one and only Etienne Salvador, makes this story not only deliciously angsty but also an absolute delight.
There are triggerwarnings here, that hit me hard, and if you have lost a loved one to cancer, this book will push all your buttons, but strangely for me, in a comforting way.
This was the book I didn't know I needed.
June 30, 2024
I love a sports romance. This book took a different take I haven’t personally read before. With the trans representation I would say this book is MF not MM but the topics and how it was all handled was so good. Definitely recommend reading if you’re into sports romance stories.
Be sure to read the trigger warnings, it got sad.
Be sure to read the trigger warnings, it got sad.
July 11, 2024
Simply put a beautiful love story of acceptance and just being your true self. Nico is a small town oyster farmer who one morning finds Eti on the beach after a bad night. While taking Eti home, Nico realizes something massive, and being who is, he just accepts it and moves on. The two have a slow burn of romance in two people getting to know their true selves. When Nico learns Eti truth, he just rolls with it, as he should. You fall for the person, not the gender (at least that's how i roll). They have an unnerving support for the other in the good and the bad. For the first time, Eti is free, and with the support of this crazy cast, it is finally happy. No silly third act break-ups, just two people falling in love even when things around them are not always great.
Shelved as 'read-when-published'
July 15, 2024Just read that this is really M/F. Afraid I'm strictly M/M. I'll wait for the next book. Loved the first one.
July 13, 2024
**This is an MF romance with a trans lead.**
I’ve only read this author’s MM books before and seeing another review saying they felt blindsided by the pairing I just want to put this at the top of my review. I think I also didn’t realise it was MM but I’ll read anything with trans rep and I adored this!! It’s important that readers know what they’re picking up though so there’s my disclaimer ☺️ On to the review:
The world knows her as soccer superstar Étienne Salvador but she washes up on Nico’s shore as Éti - funny, vibrant, and gorgeous. He’s the only person who knows her secret and they quickly become obsessed with each other while navigating her public life, their secret relationship, and the grief shadowing Nico’s family (TW for a parent with cancer).
And yet, even with death’s stealthy advance on our home, my heart sang. I was drunk in love with a person idolised by millions yet known by none.
It’s so beautifully written and Nico is absolutely dreamy book boyfriend material! Immediate acceptance and loyalty. Éti is straddling her two worlds and letting Nico in is the ultimate act of vulnerability but he honours that bravery and leans on her in turn with his own struggles. It’s just so goddamn beautiful and I wish our world could be as wonderful and accepting as Éti’s.
“But when I’m with you, you make me feel like my life has purpose, not just farming oysters and going to the pub. Like meeting you was what I was waiting for.” When I kissed her lush mouth, I felt her smile against me. “It’s a life I want to grab with both hands.”
I’ve only read this author’s MM books before and seeing another review saying they felt blindsided by the pairing I just want to put this at the top of my review. I think I also didn’t realise it was MM but I’ll read anything with trans rep and I adored this!! It’s important that readers know what they’re picking up though so there’s my disclaimer ☺️ On to the review:
The world knows her as soccer superstar Étienne Salvador but she washes up on Nico’s shore as Éti - funny, vibrant, and gorgeous. He’s the only person who knows her secret and they quickly become obsessed with each other while navigating her public life, their secret relationship, and the grief shadowing Nico’s family (TW for a parent with cancer).
And yet, even with death’s stealthy advance on our home, my heart sang. I was drunk in love with a person idolised by millions yet known by none.
It’s so beautifully written and Nico is absolutely dreamy book boyfriend material! Immediate acceptance and loyalty. Éti is straddling her two worlds and letting Nico in is the ultimate act of vulnerability but he honours that bravery and leans on her in turn with his own struggles. It’s just so goddamn beautiful and I wish our world could be as wonderful and accepting as Éti’s.
“But when I’m with you, you make me feel like my life has purpose, not just farming oysters and going to the pub. Like meeting you was what I was waiting for.” When I kissed her lush mouth, I felt her smile against me. “It’s a life I want to grab with both hands.”
July 11, 2024
Éti is a cocky trans woman, no one knows about this. Her alter ego is a famous football (soccer) player, so no one can know, imagine if FIFA would, ugh.
After she has been saved at the beach from hypothermia by Nico, the oyster fisherman, she offers him a bunch of money and a nda to keep his mouth. Nico will sign but won’t accept the money.
Walking memory lane with Nico was precious and painful. His mother is terminal and watching him and his family going through the process of grief was hard.
For me hard to digest at this moment because I’m in the middle of a grievance myself.
Watching Éti and Nico together was another precious part of this story. They fit well together.
Éti is not happy with her body, I loved watching them working out their ways intimately and emotionally together.
Nico was open and supportive. It worked both ways for Nico Éti was there at his saddest moments.
The subtle humor was wonderful.
There are some memorable moments that were quite emotional, they teared me up, and some even made me cry my eyes out.
To be honest, knowing the author’s previous work, I expected a trans m/m story. From the first chapter, I got to understand Éti was a trans woman and I got along with that, I was looking forward to getting to know her. Only, I got the feeling the author tried too hard to do right. For me, it was as if Éti got a big sign on her head with ‘this person is trans and pronounced she, don’t you forget that’. It worked too distracting to get fully attached. There was no room in this story to make pictures in my head of her for myself.
So that and the grieving part was a struggle for me throughout this story, for the rest the story was lovely.
July 3, 2024
I really fell into the book after the initial misunderstanding, but I guess that might be the point of the misunderstanding, like Eti was always female, so it shouldn’t matter that the author didn’t clarify that Eti is trans female because Eti is female. I mean I don’t know if that was the point, but this story was so good that I’m glad I got over the initial first few chapters to get to know Nico and Eti’s love story.
The author had a way with words, this book had some poetic thoughts and I think the terminal cancer of Nico’s mother was dealt with with as much care as possible.
I do love how from the start Nico was just accepting of Eti, and was fully supportive of her, and like thoroughly enamored with Eti. Nico really did have the smoothest lines, and how wonderful for Eti to have fall in love with Nico. They are the sweetest together. Each showing support for one another when support was needed. Le sigh. So sweet.
Although this story did not have a third act breakup, it had other dramatic things happen.
Of spice level, I’d say 1.5 - 2 peppers. Because although there were some open door scenes, they were written discreetly and like glamour filtered.
I loved getting to Charles and Florian through this book, and I definitely think they deserve a read. Also I’m looking forward to Max’s story.
The author had a way with words, this book had some poetic thoughts and I think the terminal cancer of Nico’s mother was dealt with with as much care as possible.
I do love how from the start Nico was just accepting of Eti, and was fully supportive of her, and like thoroughly enamored with Eti. Nico really did have the smoothest lines, and how wonderful for Eti to have fall in love with Nico. They are the sweetest together. Each showing support for one another when support was needed. Le sigh. So sweet.
Although this story did not have a third act breakup, it had other dramatic things happen.
Of spice level, I’d say 1.5 - 2 peppers. Because although there were some open door scenes, they were written discreetly and like glamour filtered.
I loved getting to Charles and Florian through this book, and I definitely think they deserve a read. Also I’m looking forward to Max’s story.
July 5, 2024
Good lord, Fearne Hill never disappoints- this book was sublime, hooks you in from the first page and doesn’t let go at all. The story is surprising, utterly charming and a bit heartbreaking, told beautifully with a sensitive emotional lens. I am going to do my level best to avoid any and all spoilers because this story needs to be experienced the way the author has written it. I went in blind and I cannot recommend this one enough, it’s an absolutely delightful, emotional, read with spots of sparkling banter shared between the protagonists. Eti truly blew me away and I loved how Nico loved her.
At its core it’s an absolutely stunning story of finding your person, your person to love, your person to lean on, your person to crack you open and help you fly. Absolutely loved Nico and Eti’s story, told mostly from Nico’s pov, the emotional depth across this courageous story just wrung me out. I havnt read a book from this author that I havnt absolutely loved and this is another one that will stay with me, becoming a favourite to revisit.
Expect:
* Oyster Farmer x Football Player
* Transgender rep
* Virgin MC
* First times
* Small town
* Slow burn
* Banter
* Hurt comfort
* Sexual awakening
* Found family
* Secret relationship
* HEA
Also the author has provided detailed content warnings including grief, a parent dying from cancer and one episode of transphobia.
July 11, 2024
Beautiful….
One of my favorite books this year was Fearne Hill’s Salt, so to say I was looking forward to Nico’s story in Oyster was an understatement. Fearne Hill writes such beautiful moving stories and Nico and Eti’s story did not let me down.
Nico’s family is struggling because his mom is suffering from cancer and is sadly in the final part of her battle. He has moved back home to help take care of his family and to be there for his mom. Work on the oyster farm continues until one day Nico and his dad and brother find a drunk woman passed out on the beach. Eti, a trans woman, is struggling to hide her identity and is scared that Nico will expose her secret.
I loved these two together so much. Nico was such a perfect boyfriend, seeing Eti for who she truly was and not the way the world saw her. Watching these two navigate a relationship for the first time was so sweet. Nico was there when Eti needed him most and she returned the favor. The way that Nico introduced Eti into his world slowly and at her pace was brilliant too. He really listened to what she needed and provided that safe place for her. It was just so well done and beautiful.
This series is definitely high on my list and I cannot wait for Max’s story. Max has been through so much and I cannot wait to see how his love story unfolds. I will be thinking of Nico and Eti for a very long time. It was so nice to see Florian and Charles again as well. I highly recommend this series and this book.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
One of my favorite books this year was Fearne Hill’s Salt, so to say I was looking forward to Nico’s story in Oyster was an understatement. Fearne Hill writes such beautiful moving stories and Nico and Eti’s story did not let me down.
Nico’s family is struggling because his mom is suffering from cancer and is sadly in the final part of her battle. He has moved back home to help take care of his family and to be there for his mom. Work on the oyster farm continues until one day Nico and his dad and brother find a drunk woman passed out on the beach. Eti, a trans woman, is struggling to hide her identity and is scared that Nico will expose her secret.
I loved these two together so much. Nico was such a perfect boyfriend, seeing Eti for who she truly was and not the way the world saw her. Watching these two navigate a relationship for the first time was so sweet. Nico was there when Eti needed him most and she returned the favor. The way that Nico introduced Eti into his world slowly and at her pace was brilliant too. He really listened to what she needed and provided that safe place for her. It was just so well done and beautiful.
This series is definitely high on my list and I cannot wait for Max’s story. Max has been through so much and I cannot wait to see how his love story unfolds. I will be thinking of Nico and Eti for a very long time. It was so nice to see Florian and Charles again as well. I highly recommend this series and this book.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
July 13, 2024
Oh my god! This book was so good! I cried hard a couple of times for obvious reasons, but it wasn’t because of our two MCs. This story….this one right here….it is absolutely gorgeous! Nico and Eti are pure perfection. Nico has no hesitation in his love and care of Eti and her secrets. The person in her skin…that’s who he cares about. Not the outside, but the inside. No matter what. Gah..this is a wonderful book. But have your tissue handy.
June 27, 2024
Thank you @fearnehill_author for providing me with this ARC. ❤️
Okay I’ll start with: I’ve never read a trans story and this epic love story between Nico and Éti was so beautiful, heartwarming, eye-opening and swoon worthy.
My heart ached, swelled and hurt for the couple and of them individually. I love this book very very much and I will read Salt in a bit too!
Nico and his family are dealing with a dying mother and wife. This part was hard for me to read due to own experiences but I pulled through.
Éti is literally living a double life of sorts. Socker god on the outside, vulnerable woman on the inside.
Only thing I need to say about a part of the book though not being a spoiler: the speech in the end and the event following directly after had me bawling my eyes out.
Bravo! I am in love with Nico and Éti 🥰🥰🥰
Okay I’ll start with: I’ve never read a trans story and this epic love story between Nico and Éti was so beautiful, heartwarming, eye-opening and swoon worthy.
My heart ached, swelled and hurt for the couple and of them individually. I love this book very very much and I will read Salt in a bit too!
Nico and his family are dealing with a dying mother and wife. This part was hard for me to read due to own experiences but I pulled through.
Éti is literally living a double life of sorts. Socker god on the outside, vulnerable woman on the inside.
Only thing I need to say about a part of the book though not being a spoiler: the speech in the end and the event following directly after had me bawling my eyes out.
Bravo! I am in love with Nico and Éti 🥰🥰🥰
Want to read
July 27, 2024Oh, how I love Fearne Hill as a writer. However, the storyline of the loss of a loved family member to cancer makes me fear will I will be taken to places I don't think I can go to as of yet. The trans rep and relationship... I'm sure Hill treats it respectfully and knocks it out of the park.
July 16, 2024
Very different trope than the stories I normally read and I loved it nontheless. Fearne Hill writes captivating stories of perfect not so perfect people.
July 14, 2024
This was my second Fearne Hill book, and gosh, I really enjoyed it.
I was a bit thrown off originally because I did not expect this to be a MF book (I usually read MM books, and I read this before the blurb clarified that the story is MF). So, it’s not my normal read, but Fearne is a damn good writer.
Both MCs are super lovable. I adore Éti and how full of life she is. And Nico was such a chill guy! They are perfect for each other.
I also found the setting to be really cool an interesting. I hadn’t read book 1 in the series yet, so it was all new to me, and I loved it!
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review of it.
I was a bit thrown off originally because I did not expect this to be a MF book (I usually read MM books, and I read this before the blurb clarified that the story is MF). So, it’s not my normal read, but Fearne is a damn good writer.
Both MCs are super lovable. I adore Éti and how full of life she is. And Nico was such a chill guy! They are perfect for each other.
I also found the setting to be really cool an interesting. I hadn’t read book 1 in the series yet, so it was all new to me, and I loved it!
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review of it.
July 11, 2024
Nico LaForge at twenty-eight, is a big part of the family business. The LaForge Oyster Farms has been around since 1921 and still going strong. Nico had even gotten his own apartment but tragedy befell the family as Mum Marie got cancer. The family, father Stefan, younger brother Max and sister Zoe all started to fall apart. Nico moved back home and continued to carry the weight of the business and the responsibility of being the support of his Mum, Father and siblings. He tried his best to give them love and understanding during this time as they all have their own issues.
Nico the attractive tattooed, smelly, oyster farmer has never had a problem with the ladies, until he saves a drowning mermaid, Eti. Seems Eti is just a bit tipsy and water logged. There’s no mistake that Nico recognizes who she really is. Eti Salvador offers Nico a deal to keep her identity a secret. Nico thinks long and hard about the money offered. He could do so much with it to help his Mum. But in reality he knows there will still be the same outcome and he doesn’t want his Mum to suffer. Eti is a wonder, enthusiastic, always in motion and talks forever, but Nico can’t resist what he feels for Eti.
As a friendship grows between Eti and Nico will they be able to brave all the issues that are sure to arise?
Fearne Hill takes readers back to France with “Oyster” the second book of the “Island Love” series. As with “Salt” the author writes a wonderfully romantic and emotional story, which really reflects that her writing is a true language of love. Once again, there’s interesting subject matter with: Transphobia, oyster farming and and what’s known as soccer (football) and the many exciting descriptions of the game. I thought the oyster farming processes were very interesting and it reflects that Nico is really a man of the sea.
The author writes of both, Nico and Eti’s first time and discussions of being trans and Eti’s plans for the future. It also addresses those that are accepting and respect Eti for who she is and how to deal with those that are transphobic. Most of all It’s about finding that one person regardless of who or what they are, that love can be shared.
It’s a contrast of families. As the La Forge’s struggle through a difficult time and try as he might Nico keeps the family together. Where the well-off Salvador family only care more about their reputation than supporting their only child.
Again, the author delivers a host of interesting characters. Of course, Nico’s best friend Florian and Charles make an appearance. Nico’s family: Marie, Stefan, Max and Zoe. Eti and the supportive PSG team: Fabien and his wife, Ruiz, Meyer and Dubois.
As with “Salt” Fearne Hill did not disappoint with “Oyster.” I believe she writes from the heart and never intends to hurt or shame readers. I’ve read several other books by Fearne Hill and although the subject matter may be difficult, she always covers the subjects as delicately as possible. I highly recommend “Oyster” by Fearne Hill and I’m looking forward to the next “Island Love” story.
Nico the attractive tattooed, smelly, oyster farmer has never had a problem with the ladies, until he saves a drowning mermaid, Eti. Seems Eti is just a bit tipsy and water logged. There’s no mistake that Nico recognizes who she really is. Eti Salvador offers Nico a deal to keep her identity a secret. Nico thinks long and hard about the money offered. He could do so much with it to help his Mum. But in reality he knows there will still be the same outcome and he doesn’t want his Mum to suffer. Eti is a wonder, enthusiastic, always in motion and talks forever, but Nico can’t resist what he feels for Eti.
As a friendship grows between Eti and Nico will they be able to brave all the issues that are sure to arise?
Fearne Hill takes readers back to France with “Oyster” the second book of the “Island Love” series. As with “Salt” the author writes a wonderfully romantic and emotional story, which really reflects that her writing is a true language of love. Once again, there’s interesting subject matter with: Transphobia, oyster farming and and what’s known as soccer (football) and the many exciting descriptions of the game. I thought the oyster farming processes were very interesting and it reflects that Nico is really a man of the sea.
The author writes of both, Nico and Eti’s first time and discussions of being trans and Eti’s plans for the future. It also addresses those that are accepting and respect Eti for who she is and how to deal with those that are transphobic. Most of all It’s about finding that one person regardless of who or what they are, that love can be shared.
It’s a contrast of families. As the La Forge’s struggle through a difficult time and try as he might Nico keeps the family together. Where the well-off Salvador family only care more about their reputation than supporting their only child.
Again, the author delivers a host of interesting characters. Of course, Nico’s best friend Florian and Charles make an appearance. Nico’s family: Marie, Stefan, Max and Zoe. Eti and the supportive PSG team: Fabien and his wife, Ruiz, Meyer and Dubois.
As with “Salt” Fearne Hill did not disappoint with “Oyster.” I believe she writes from the heart and never intends to hurt or shame readers. I’ve read several other books by Fearne Hill and although the subject matter may be difficult, she always covers the subjects as delicately as possible. I highly recommend “Oyster” by Fearne Hill and I’m looking forward to the next “Island Love” story.
July 10, 2024
𝘖𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳 is the second book in Fearne Hill’s 𝘐𝘴𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 series. Although I did read this as a standalone, I am definitely going to be going back to read Florian’s book soon. This is an MF book with an MTF leading character. Heed the TW (death of a parent). Then suspend disbelief at the door and let Ms. Hill take you on this heartbreaking and beautiful journey with Nico and his Éti.
I will say as an American with minimal exposure to the French language, I did spend a bit of time looking up words or simply deciphering the meaning of terms based on context due to this book being set on Île de Ré, an island off the French coast, where Nico’s family has farmed oysters for a hundred years and going strong. When Nico is wrapping up a harvest with his father and brother he first sees Éti and she’s in trouble, so he begins his guardian angel duties that first morning.
Recognizing Éti for the part she must play in front of the world as a famous footballer (soccer player), Nico must earn her trust before they become friends. Although Nico has only dated cis-women in the past, and never the same twice, he soon realizes that he might want more with this enigmatic force of nature, Éti Salvador.
The first three-quarters of the book describes the process Nico and his family goes through during his mom’s rapid decline due to terminal cancer. Hill deals with this tastefully but doesn’t shy away from the hardships each family member experiences along the way. During this time Nico finds strength in his relationship with Éti once he confides his fears.
The intimacy shared between Nico and Éti is handled well, I thought. It is shy, at first, with Éti being inexperienced and vulnerable. There is serious gender dysphoria, and it isn’t until Nico can reassure her that he loves her the way she is as her true self that they can be truly comfortable with each other. They support each other through the good and the bad, and when Éti is ready to share her truth, Nico stands by her side.
This was a sweet romance with very little angst. There were a few instances of homo/trans���phobia, but they were not the norm. The setting of this tale was acceptance, support, and love, which made for an enjoyable, heartwarming read that made me smile. I truly enjoyed this book, and I hope you give it a try, especially if you’re on the fence about reading a female transgender lead. Max’s story is up next, and he’s Nico’s little brother.
Happy reading!
~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~
I will say as an American with minimal exposure to the French language, I did spend a bit of time looking up words or simply deciphering the meaning of terms based on context due to this book being set on Île de Ré, an island off the French coast, where Nico’s family has farmed oysters for a hundred years and going strong. When Nico is wrapping up a harvest with his father and brother he first sees Éti and she’s in trouble, so he begins his guardian angel duties that first morning.
Recognizing Éti for the part she must play in front of the world as a famous footballer (soccer player), Nico must earn her trust before they become friends. Although Nico has only dated cis-women in the past, and never the same twice, he soon realizes that he might want more with this enigmatic force of nature, Éti Salvador.
The first three-quarters of the book describes the process Nico and his family goes through during his mom’s rapid decline due to terminal cancer. Hill deals with this tastefully but doesn’t shy away from the hardships each family member experiences along the way. During this time Nico finds strength in his relationship with Éti once he confides his fears.
The intimacy shared between Nico and Éti is handled well, I thought. It is shy, at first, with Éti being inexperienced and vulnerable. There is serious gender dysphoria, and it isn’t until Nico can reassure her that he loves her the way she is as her true self that they can be truly comfortable with each other. They support each other through the good and the bad, and when Éti is ready to share her truth, Nico stands by her side.
This was a sweet romance with very little angst. There were a few instances of homo/trans���phobia, but they were not the norm. The setting of this tale was acceptance, support, and love, which made for an enjoyable, heartwarming read that made me smile. I truly enjoyed this book, and I hope you give it a try, especially if you’re on the fence about reading a female transgender lead. Max’s story is up next, and he’s Nico’s little brother.
Happy reading!
~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~
July 13, 2024
I am unabashedly in love with the way Fearne Hill writes. She creates beautiful worlds (hello Rossingley!), characters you fall in love with who stay with you long after you finish their story, and her prose borders on poetry. Plus heat, humor, and I always learn something new - yes I googled flicky-flacky hair!
Her new release, Oyster, is breathtaking. A windswept meeting between two beautifully imperfect souls. Nico, Florian’s friend from the superb Salt, is a revelation. Grumpy, but kind. He saves Eti’ from the rolling surf and is instantly charmed. And how could he not? She’s a force of nature. Strong, sensitive, conflicted, and utterly beguiling. You will adore them both.
Neither knows the first thing about relationships, and watching them sweetly stumble their way into one is lovely. They are tender, loving, and so supportive of each other.
Eti’ has secrets, and the descriptions of her dysphoria, and love of all she’s accomplished with her body despite those feelings, are sensitively done.
I’m being purposely vague because the way their story develops is just so enchanting.
This is a real life fairy tale. Nico, a humble oyster farmer, is one of the most romantic men you’ll ever read. And Eti’, his beautiful princess, gets to enjoy the HEA she richly deserves.
(There is a melancholy subplot, although as someone who lived through that experience I have to say it was done with empathy and just the right tone.)
I loved how Nico, his friends, and family all accepted Eti’. More people need to follow their provincial lead. And Max is next? I can’t wait and may have already preordered his story.
I highly recommend this story about having the courage to be yourself, and loving with all your heart.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+
Her new release, Oyster, is breathtaking. A windswept meeting between two beautifully imperfect souls. Nico, Florian’s friend from the superb Salt, is a revelation. Grumpy, but kind. He saves Eti’ from the rolling surf and is instantly charmed. And how could he not? She’s a force of nature. Strong, sensitive, conflicted, and utterly beguiling. You will adore them both.
Neither knows the first thing about relationships, and watching them sweetly stumble their way into one is lovely. They are tender, loving, and so supportive of each other.
Eti’ has secrets, and the descriptions of her dysphoria, and love of all she’s accomplished with her body despite those feelings, are sensitively done.
I’m being purposely vague because the way their story develops is just so enchanting.
This is a real life fairy tale. Nico, a humble oyster farmer, is one of the most romantic men you’ll ever read. And Eti’, his beautiful princess, gets to enjoy the HEA she richly deserves.
(There is a melancholy subplot, although as someone who lived through that experience I have to say it was done with empathy and just the right tone.)
I loved how Nico, his friends, and family all accepted Eti’. More people need to follow their provincial lead. And Max is next? I can’t wait and may have already preordered his story.
I highly recommend this story about having the courage to be yourself, and loving with all your heart.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+
July 17, 2024
**4.5** (spoiler in the trigger warnings at the end)
I am so glad that I got to read this book! I loved book one of the series, Salt, but I think Fearne has surpassed that with Oyster.
Nico and Eti's relationship is built on trust from their first encounter, as soon as Nico realises who Eti is. Eti's sense of freedom and newfound joy for life is contagious for Nico who has a hugely emotional thing going on at home. Being with Eti gives him the chance to be away from the worries of his mum's health for a couple of hours, as well as how the rest of his family are coping. Eti is like a breath of fresh air in how she thinks of the world, considering the life she leads when she's back in Paris as the person the world knows her as.
There is trauma through the story on both sides - Eti having had to hide her true self from the world for her whole life, Nico being the first to know her and that was by accident. Nico and his whole family are dealing with the declining health of his mother, which also has the emotional wear on each family member that he worries about as the eldest sibling. Florian, Nico's best friend, is there with his care and support but a lot of this falls on the two MC's as the Eti's secret keeps them mostly from the public eye. My favourite thing about the whole book is the reaction of Nico, his family and friends when they find out about Eti. It's heartwarming, loving and accepting, everything that I wish it could be for everyone.
**This book deals with transphobia, coming out, a side character in the final stages of life with cancer and then passing away**
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
I am so glad that I got to read this book! I loved book one of the series, Salt, but I think Fearne has surpassed that with Oyster.
Nico and Eti's relationship is built on trust from their first encounter, as soon as Nico realises who Eti is. Eti's sense of freedom and newfound joy for life is contagious for Nico who has a hugely emotional thing going on at home. Being with Eti gives him the chance to be away from the worries of his mum's health for a couple of hours, as well as how the rest of his family are coping. Eti is like a breath of fresh air in how she thinks of the world, considering the life she leads when she's back in Paris as the person the world knows her as.
There is trauma through the story on both sides - Eti having had to hide her true self from the world for her whole life, Nico being the first to know her and that was by accident. Nico and his whole family are dealing with the declining health of his mother, which also has the emotional wear on each family member that he worries about as the eldest sibling. Florian, Nico's best friend, is there with his care and support but a lot of this falls on the two MC's as the Eti's secret keeps them mostly from the public eye. My favourite thing about the whole book is the reaction of Nico, his family and friends when they find out about Eti. It's heartwarming, loving and accepting, everything that I wish it could be for everyone.
**This book deals with transphobia, coming out, a side character in the final stages of life with cancer and then passing away**
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
July 14, 2024
3,5/5
Il me tardait de découvrir le second roman de cette saga avec cette fois pour personnage principal, Nico. N'ayant pas lu le résumé ni les mots clé, j'ai été étonnée de voir qu'il s'agissait d'une romance MF avec pour autre personnage principal, Eti, une femme transgenre.
J'ai été d'emblée happée par le début, par la vie, le quotidien de Nico. Lui et sa famille traversent une période douloureuse, et j'ai aimé la façon dont a traité Fearne Hill tout ce qui touche à ce sujet. Puis nous avons la rencontre entre Nico et Eti, qui est très étonnante en fait. On sait que Eti est une femme atypique et on en découvre un peu plus à son sujet par la suite.
J'ai aimé la relation entre les deux personnages, tout particulièrement Nico de par sa manière de considérer Eti pour ce qu'elle est, tout simplement, chose qui ne lui était encore jamais arrivé, sa façon de la protéger aussi. Beaucoup de bienveillance s'en dégage en fait, c'était très doux aussi.
Mon gros bémol a été pour moi le côté surréaliste de l'histoire, par rapport à Eti et son métier notamment, même si je n'ai aucun point de comparaison possible. Je ne sais pas, je l'imaginais dans le club du PSG avec d'autres joueurs... J'ai un doute sur le trop de bienveillance justement que l'auteur met en évidence à un moment donné. Tout va trop vite à mon goût aussi, je pense que l'histoire aurait gagné en profondeur avec plus de développement, mais ça reste que mon avis...
J'ai pu revoir mes deux chouchous du tome précédent, c'était trop chouette ^^ J'ai bien-sûr hâte de découvrir le prochain roman !
Il me tardait de découvrir le second roman de cette saga avec cette fois pour personnage principal, Nico. N'ayant pas lu le résumé ni les mots clé, j'ai été étonnée de voir qu'il s'agissait d'une romance MF avec pour autre personnage principal, Eti, une femme transgenre.
J'ai été d'emblée happée par le début, par la vie, le quotidien de Nico. Lui et sa famille traversent une période douloureuse, et j'ai aimé la façon dont a traité Fearne Hill tout ce qui touche à ce sujet. Puis nous avons la rencontre entre Nico et Eti, qui est très étonnante en fait. On sait que Eti est une femme atypique et on en découvre un peu plus à son sujet par la suite.
J'ai aimé la relation entre les deux personnages, tout particulièrement Nico de par sa manière de considérer Eti pour ce qu'elle est, tout simplement, chose qui ne lui était encore jamais arrivé, sa façon de la protéger aussi. Beaucoup de bienveillance s'en dégage en fait, c'était très doux aussi.
Mon gros bémol a été pour moi le côté surréaliste de l'histoire, par rapport à Eti et son métier notamment, même si je n'ai aucun point de comparaison possible. Je ne sais pas, je l'imaginais dans le club du PSG avec d'autres joueurs... J'ai un doute sur le trop de bienveillance justement que l'auteur met en évidence à un moment donné. Tout va trop vite à mon goût aussi, je pense que l'histoire aurait gagné en profondeur avec plus de développement, mais ça reste que mon avis...
J'ai pu revoir mes deux chouchous du tome précédent, c'était trop chouette ^^ J'ai bien-sûr hâte de découvrir le prochain roman !
July 17, 2024
THIS BOOK WAS SUPERB!💕M/F ⚽️🥅🦪
“joy takes fewer words than hate. And when you find joy, hold on to any piece of it, because a lot of people will try to take it away from you.”
A pansexual oyster fisherman Nicolas La Forge finds the most beautiful pearl in the ocean-near drowned Eti Salvador a trans woman living in two separate worlds, but when their worlds collide it’s like magic!
“You’d never guess the inside of the shell was as magical as this from the outside, would you? Or that something as ugly could ever hold an object as beautiful as a pearl.” 🦪
“Have you ever found any pearls, Nico?”
“Just one, my sweetheart.”
Wow this was a riveting emotional eye opening read to put yourself as reader in the shoes of Eti who was born into the wrong body and had the soul and spirit of a vivacious, sassy, funny woman and that was what Nico saw when he looked at her and what drew him to her.
Their romance was pure magic by how they just glided into being boyfriend and girlfriend no encumbrances, no hesitations just pure adoration, trust and acceptance!
The support and love that both Eti and Nico received from Nico’s family, friends like our Florian and Charles and Eti’s PSG teammates was heartfelt and sincere.
The support that Eti gave Nico and his family in the deepest, darkest time when they lost a loved one was so sweet and nurturing!
I thought Salt was a fantastic read but this story- wow is all I can say!
I look forward to Max’s story and more from Nico and Eti!
I voluntarily received an ARC from Forward PR & Marketing for an honest non biased review.
“joy takes fewer words than hate. And when you find joy, hold on to any piece of it, because a lot of people will try to take it away from you.”
A pansexual oyster fisherman Nicolas La Forge finds the most beautiful pearl in the ocean-near drowned Eti Salvador a trans woman living in two separate worlds, but when their worlds collide it’s like magic!
“You’d never guess the inside of the shell was as magical as this from the outside, would you? Or that something as ugly could ever hold an object as beautiful as a pearl.” 🦪
“Have you ever found any pearls, Nico?”
“Just one, my sweetheart.”
Wow this was a riveting emotional eye opening read to put yourself as reader in the shoes of Eti who was born into the wrong body and had the soul and spirit of a vivacious, sassy, funny woman and that was what Nico saw when he looked at her and what drew him to her.
Their romance was pure magic by how they just glided into being boyfriend and girlfriend no encumbrances, no hesitations just pure adoration, trust and acceptance!
The support and love that both Eti and Nico received from Nico’s family, friends like our Florian and Charles and Eti’s PSG teammates was heartfelt and sincere.
The support that Eti gave Nico and his family in the deepest, darkest time when they lost a loved one was so sweet and nurturing!
I thought Salt was a fantastic read but this story- wow is all I can say!
I look forward to Max’s story and more from Nico and Eti!
I voluntarily received an ARC from Forward PR & Marketing for an honest non biased review.
July 21, 2024
Jo's Review
5 Stars
Sometimes you’re offered a book by an author and you don’t even read the blurb because you love the author that much. I knew Oyster was the follow-up to Salt so it was a no-brainer for me. So when I started to read; I had no idea it was an MF queer story. I almost thought I had signed up for a non-lgbqt+ story. Don’t be fooled—this is possibly one of the most beautiful, powerful love stories about acceptance and being who you are that I have read. It is simply sublime. I adored Nico for being the kind, accepting, loving soul that you hope everyone will find. He sees Eti for who she is from the start; even though he quickly realises who else she was in another life. He never treats her at any point as anyone but the person she is, Eti, and falls in love with this vivacious, funny woman. That for the first time Eti gets to be herself with someone and then is just traduced to a world where she is just “Eti” is so sad yet beautiful and joyful to read.
This is a piece of escapism; almost a fairy tale as sadly, I am not sure in the real world we would get such a hea. Is that not though why we read love stories, to exist in the world as we wish it was, and to escape the meanness and pain of this one? One day the Eti’s of this world will get to live their own hea.
Eti and Nico’s story is wonderful, inspiring, and heartfelt and I’d urge everyone to read it. Just beautiful.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
5 Stars
Sometimes you’re offered a book by an author and you don’t even read the blurb because you love the author that much. I knew Oyster was the follow-up to Salt so it was a no-brainer for me. So when I started to read; I had no idea it was an MF queer story. I almost thought I had signed up for a non-lgbqt+ story. Don’t be fooled—this is possibly one of the most beautiful, powerful love stories about acceptance and being who you are that I have read. It is simply sublime. I adored Nico for being the kind, accepting, loving soul that you hope everyone will find. He sees Eti for who she is from the start; even though he quickly realises who else she was in another life. He never treats her at any point as anyone but the person she is, Eti, and falls in love with this vivacious, funny woman. That for the first time Eti gets to be herself with someone and then is just traduced to a world where she is just “Eti” is so sad yet beautiful and joyful to read.
This is a piece of escapism; almost a fairy tale as sadly, I am not sure in the real world we would get such a hea. Is that not though why we read love stories, to exist in the world as we wish it was, and to escape the meanness and pain of this one? One day the Eti’s of this world will get to live their own hea.
Eti and Nico’s story is wonderful, inspiring, and heartfelt and I’d urge everyone to read it. Just beautiful.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
July 13, 2024
Encore un magnifique roman signé Fearne Hill, décidément cette autrice fait mouche à chaque fois !
Alors attention, l'histoire d'amour contée dans Oyster n'est pas un MM mais un MF avec une femme transgenre comme héroïne, n'ayant pas lu le résumé et les notes de l'autrice, j'ai été un peu étonnée (même si Nico nous était présenté comme un homme à femmes dans le 1er tome...) mais cela n'a absolument pas perturbé ma lecture pour autant.
J'ai adoré retrouvé l'athmosphère si apaisante et emplie de plénitude de l'île de Ré et cela contribue vraiment au charme et à l'originalité de cette série, un héros ostréiculteur ça ne court pas les romans et c'était génial d'en découvrir plus sur ce métier. Le récit est empreint de mélancolie car Nico et sa famille traversent une épreuve particulièrement cruelle, chacun a sa manière de gérer cette situation tragique, cela a eu une résonance particulière en moi et j'avoue avoir été très touchée par cet aspect de l'intrigue. La relation entre Nico et Eti est aussi très émouvante, j'ai aimé l'authenticité qui s'en dégage, le fait que Nico offrira à Eti une sécurité, un havre de paix où elle peut lâcher prise, être elle-même sans peur du jugement et des regards méprisants. Leur histoire est lumineuse, comme un phare qui vous guide au coeur de la tempête...
Évidemment, nous avons le plaisir de retrouver les personnages rencontrés lors du 1er tome dans ce petit coin de paradis insulaire !
Alors attention, l'histoire d'amour contée dans Oyster n'est pas un MM mais un MF avec une femme transgenre comme héroïne, n'ayant pas lu le résumé et les notes de l'autrice, j'ai été un peu étonnée (même si Nico nous était présenté comme un homme à femmes dans le 1er tome...) mais cela n'a absolument pas perturbé ma lecture pour autant.
J'ai adoré retrouvé l'athmosphère si apaisante et emplie de plénitude de l'île de Ré et cela contribue vraiment au charme et à l'originalité de cette série, un héros ostréiculteur ça ne court pas les romans et c'était génial d'en découvrir plus sur ce métier. Le récit est empreint de mélancolie car Nico et sa famille traversent une épreuve particulièrement cruelle, chacun a sa manière de gérer cette situation tragique, cela a eu une résonance particulière en moi et j'avoue avoir été très touchée par cet aspect de l'intrigue. La relation entre Nico et Eti est aussi très émouvante, j'ai aimé l'authenticité qui s'en dégage, le fait que Nico offrira à Eti une sécurité, un havre de paix où elle peut lâcher prise, être elle-même sans peur du jugement et des regards méprisants. Leur histoire est lumineuse, comme un phare qui vous guide au coeur de la tempête...
Évidemment, nous avons le plaisir de retrouver les personnages rencontrés lors du 1er tome dans ce petit coin de paradis insulaire !
July 14, 2024
I loved taking another journey in the Island Love series - this time with Nico's story. Nico is an oyster farmer who works long hours in his family's business. In the past, he has gone from woman to woman, never dating anyone for very long. He enjoys his single life. Now, however, his mother is slowly dying of cancer and it is profoundly affecting his family. He goes through life in a haze of work, taking it a day at a time.
When Nico spots a young, obviously drunk woman sitting is the cold surf in the early morning hours, he does what is right and helps her return safely to her house. Only when he gets her inside and clearly sees her face for the first time does he realize that this is the top soccer player in the world, known to all as a man.
Initially, Eti doesn't trust Nico not to out her. She shares that she is a transgender woman who is very much in the closet. Nico is drawn to her lovely features, her winning personality, and her quick wit. He wants to spend more time with her and she wants to trust him, too.
This story has a sometimes very bittersweet thread due to the mother's illness and its impact on the family. Eti's emotions and feelings related to splitting a life between being her authentic self with Nico and something else with the rest of the world feels authentic and compassionately told. This is definitely a potential tearjerker in some places. I loved it and look forward to the next book in the series.
When Nico spots a young, obviously drunk woman sitting is the cold surf in the early morning hours, he does what is right and helps her return safely to her house. Only when he gets her inside and clearly sees her face for the first time does he realize that this is the top soccer player in the world, known to all as a man.
Initially, Eti doesn't trust Nico not to out her. She shares that she is a transgender woman who is very much in the closet. Nico is drawn to her lovely features, her winning personality, and her quick wit. He wants to spend more time with her and she wants to trust him, too.
This story has a sometimes very bittersweet thread due to the mother's illness and its impact on the family. Eti's emotions and feelings related to splitting a life between being her authentic self with Nico and something else with the rest of the world feels authentic and compassionately told. This is definitely a potential tearjerker in some places. I loved it and look forward to the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews