John Paul Brammer is an LGBTQ writer and artist whose advice column, Hola Papi, was originally on a Grindr affiliated site. This book is his memoir, written in the form of advice letters or essays, and talks about the life and relationship lessons that he’s learned.

I loved this book so much. The authors voice and personality come across so beautifully, you feel like you’re sitting down with a friend and having a deep and meaningful conversation. John Paul is just so delightful, I loved spending time with him. In this book he writes about not fitting in, accepting who you are, falling in love, falling out of love, his growing sense of cultural heritage and a lot more. The stories he tells are so funny and honest, I could really relate to so many things that happened to him, even though our lives are so different. I also really loved the bittersweet, heartfelt, and romantic side to him. He can tell a funny story, or a sad story and poke a little fun at himself, and then he can show you the “ain’t that just like life” part of it. And how to get through it and make sense of it all. I really enjoyed that. He made me smile but he made me feel things too.

I immediately followed him on Instagram.

I recommend this one as an all round good read. The author is so human and his personality, humour and charm come across in this book so well. He has such a down to earth voice. And I’m here for it.

Read It If: you’ve ever loved and lost, ever been the odd one out… A lovely read, and one that is funny, honest and heartfelt.

Thank you Simon & Schuster Canada for the ARC of this book for review. Hola Papi is out June 8th.