Out of Character

Closeted college dropout Milo Lionetti embarks on a journey of forgiveness, redemption, and self-discovery in Albert’s cute second True Colors romance (after Conventionally Yours). After jock Milo gambles away his brother’s ultra-rare trading cards for the fictional game Odyssey without realizing how valuable they are, he begs his estranged childhood best friend, nerdy Jasper Quigley, for help finding replacements. Jasper, who’s still hurt by the way Milo pulled away from their friendship after Jasper came out as gay in high school, reluctantly agrees only if Milo fills a vacant role in Jasper’s cosplay group during their charity work at the local children’s hospital. The drawn out hunt for the cards brings the pair to an Odyssey tournament, where Milo emotionally comes out as gay after he and Jasper kiss for the first time. As they spend more time together, Jasper must decide if he’s ready to forgive Milo’s past mistakes, and Milo must find the courage to move into a more authentic future as an openly gay artist. Milo’s arc is far more nuanced and developed than that of Jasper, whose characterization is somewhat bland, but the slice-of-life plot and sweet, supportive romance that develops between them will have broad appeal. This is sure to please. [em]Agent: Deidre Knight, the Knight Agency (July) [/em]