Erryn reviews Merry Measure by Lily Morton. Published December 2 2020, 198 pages. The audiobook was released October 8, 2021, is 5 hrs and 25 mins and is narrated by Joel Leslie. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Why I read it: Lily Morton and Joel Leslie and a Christmas book? Couldn’t say yes fast enough.
Arlo Wright’s introduction to his sexuality came when he saw his older brother’s best friend, Jack Cooper, in his sweaty football kit. Unfortunately, he didn’t have long to enjoy the revelation because he promptly knocked himself out on a table.
Relations between them have never really moved on from that auspicious beginning. Arlo is still clumsy, and Jack is still as handsome and unobtainable as ever. However, things look like they’re starting to change when Arlo finds himself sharing a room with Jack while on holiday in Amsterdam at Christmas.
Will the festive spirit finally move them towards each other, or is Arlo just banging his head against a wall this time?
From best-selling author Lily Morton comes a warm romantic comedy set in chilly Amsterdam.
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My review:
Whenever I see a new Lily Morton audiobook, my heart does a little leap. I know I’m going to be laughing out loud, getting a little misty, and thoroughly enjoying myself – especially given Joel Leslie will be narrating. Joel is one of my favorites, and he and Ms. Morton were destined to work together. Each book exceeds my expectations.
This stand-alone was particularly adorable. I loved Arlo. Adored him. Wanted to wrap him up in a huge hug. He’s awkward, clumsy, says what he’s thinking out loud, and is the most loyal brother ever, even if Tom doesn’t always deserve it.
I also loved Jack. He’s reserved, but he also appreciates what a great childhood Arlo and Tom had. Jack’s envious of the relationships the men had with their parents. The family has embraced Jack, so it’s only fitting he’s in Amsterdam with Tom, his boyfriend, their mate Freddie and his new girlfriend Diane, as well as Arlo. Tom’s planning to propose to his boyfriend – who goes by B. But Tom keeps waiting for the perfect moment, which never quite seems to happen.
Meanwhile, the hotel has screwed up the reservation and now Jack and Arlo are sharing a room. Delicious forced proximity that works so well. Will they or won’t they admit their feelings? Are they destined to forever be star-crossed lovers? What happens when Jack’s ex shows up?
Plenty of comedic fodder and it’s handled brilliantly. The non-virgin Shirley Temples alone are worth the price of admittance.
I laughed, I sniffed, I got my happily ever after with a holiday twist. Well done.
My rating:
10/10 Pots of Gold – Compares to 5/5 Stars
Lily lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven’t had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot, funny men?
And finally, she believes that love conquers all. Except the heat index in July. Nothing can conquer that bastard.
Rainbow Gold Reviews 