CALIFORNIA SCREAMING

A fun, frank, and totally fab first novel, this glossy depiction of several gay relationships in the heart of Hollywood has a dash of depth to complement the camp: a lightweight but sincere exploration of love that creeps up on us when we least expect it. Twenty-eight-year-old Kevin Molloy is a jaded fashion photographer whose head-turning good looks have failed to bring him happiness. Meantime, his roommate Leon is stuck in the role of sidekick; no matter how hard he tries, or how much he works out, he can’t seem to match Kevin’s surefire appeal. When Hollywood mogul Brad Sherwood picks up Kevin in a parking lot, Kevin finally feels he’s gotten the break he deserves; he leaves Leon in the dust for a taste of the high life with Brad and Brad’s old friend Rob, who manages to acquire a plaything of his own in Australian personal trainer Kim. Although Kevin’s all too willing to play the pampered boy toy, he keeps his cards close to his vest and refuses to consider that he may actually have feelings for Brad; memories of the only man he’s ever really loved his former best friend/lover Anthony Capozi continue to haunt him even as he reaps the benefits of Sherwood’s millions. But before long, Kevin can’t deny the truth: He’s fallen for Brad, and the feeling is mutual. Rob plans an unprecedented Hollywood-style bash to celebrate their love and Brad’s business success, but disaster strikes when Brad discovers a secret from Kevin’s past. They break up, but, of course, it doesn’t end there. Eventually, a reconciliation seems likely. Even Leon seems to discover true love in the person of Rob’s Australian boyfriend. A refreshingly unconventional, high-spirited romp with heart and soul. (Quality Paperback Book Club alternate selection)