Title: The Hearts of Yesteryear
Author: Vivien Dean
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella (92 pages)
Publisher: Amber Allure, Amber Quill (September 22nd, 2013)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Reviewer: Cat
Blurb: Throughout his career, actor John Paravati has stuck with the line he sold to the gossip rags—he’s been in like, been in lust, even been in respect once or twice, but never love. It works for him. After all, the only thing he’s ever cared about is performing, and if he’s stuck now doing commercials for cruise lines to pay his bills, at least it’s better than shilling adult diapers.
But people in Hollywood are pros at pretending, and John is the master of them all. Because once upon a time, in the world of his youth, he loved two things with all his heart—his best friend Frank and the movie palace he used as sanctuary.
More than fifty years ago, John ran away from his hometown, never to look back. Now, someone has decided to restore the theater he left behind, and they want John to be a part of its relaunch. Though the memories still sting, he swallows his pride and agrees to go, even if it means finally dealing with the heartache he’s ignored all this time. At seventy-seven, he’s too old to continue holding onto the hurt. The question is, however, is he too old to start over once it’s gone?
Purchase Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/HeartsYesteryear.html
Review: John left his hometown in his twenties after his heart was crushed. He became a successful actor and now 50 years later the memories are all brought up in an invitation to go back to the grand opening of the restoration of the theatre there.
This is a very well written sweet story about a man’s past coming back to haunt him. It’s also a starch reminder that so long ago gay lifestyles were less accepted than they are nowadays causing many young men to deny themselves of whom they really are and who they truly loved.
I also really loved that the characters were older men (in their seventies) and well established in their lives. It goes to show that love can be found no matter what the age, that all of us have needs and desires and hurts. Well done!!
I highly recommend this to anyone that likes older characters, actors, military men and a very sweet love story.