Larger than Love (Big Boys of Gilroy Book 1) by Jole Cannon

Two friends in their mid-thirties, reunited and finding that their long held attraction to each other might lead to more if they are willing to risk their hearts. Homophobia, family disapproval, past hurtful relationships, and personal demons are hurdles Bernard and Rory have to overcome.


From the Larger than Love blurb:

Bernard feels like an outsider in the gay community. Thirty-five, chubby, and hairy, he doesn’t fit the image of the stereotypical gay man. Failed relationships in his past solidify the idea he is destined to be alone.

Rory is struggling with his identity. At thirty-five, he is still single. When he reunites with his childhood friend, his religious convictions and the desire to be with a man clash as he must choose between what the Church taught him is right and what his heart desires.

The two men are forced to face their fears and make a choice. Live alone and accept their fate or take a leap and challenge what they believe.

James's review:

This book for me is a 5/5! It totally kept me engaged. I found the characters and the situations very realistic and relatable to real life. Bernard and Rory have known each other for years. They lost touch when Rory went to college. Bernard is a larger man and has trouble meeting other men. He does not like the hook up scene. His two previous relationships ended badly and he suffers from a lack of self confidence. Rory identifies as straight and he is having trouble reconciling the feelings that he has about Bernard. Rory’s mother is very much into their religion and tries to control his life. So Rory who doe not date and Bernard who is dating insecure like each other very much. But there is a lot standing in their way.The two men really have to communicate and decide what they want out of life and from each other.

SNik's review:

First in series (Big Boys of Gilroy). Hurt/comfort. Mature characters. Found family. Slow burn. Dual POV. Heed content warnings. 

It’s the late 1990’s and 35 year-old Bernard doesn’t feel like he fits all that well into the gay community and has had horrible past relationship experiences. As he starts to expand his friend group he reunites with Rory who he once had a crush on, but Rory is very devout to the Catholic church and has never indicated he would be interested in Bernard. 

This story mostly centers around Bernard and Rory as they change personally in their hopes, personal expectations, and the way they appreciate themselves and their friendships. Bernard and Rory really evolve their friendship into something more and are sweet and committed to each other in the face of homophobia and their personal fears. There was a bit of angst, some steamy times near the end, and some potential future characters living in the town of Gilroy.


Larger than Love is currently available as an e-book and paperback