I'm gonna nope. Grumpy characters are fine. Whiny, entitled brats, less so. I may have loved this when I was younger, but I just don't have the patience for another Schitt's Creek whiny man, Matthew Prince doesn't have the humor to counter his behavior.
The anxiety rep was great.

Having read the physical galley of this book I wanted to test out the narrator and I have to say Timothy Janovsky does a stupendous job of getting across the snarkiness and festiveness of this story. Excellent listen.

This book was very cute and perfect for the holiday season. The narrator was clear and I had no issues with understanding the book. Definitely add this one to your TBR if you like books with male/male romance.

Trigger Warnings: Drugs, alcohol, anxiety, cursing, anxiety attacks, simultaneous masturbation, sex, lying, blackmail, divorce, therapy

Representation: Mental health: anxiety, Puerto Rican-American, Gay, Bisexual, She/they pronouns, polyamory

You’re a Mean One, Matthew Prince is a contemporary romance about socialite Matthew Prince, whose parents’ wealth and fame keep him in the public eye. When Matthew makes a financial mistake to earn his parents attention, he is cut off and banished to spend the holidays with his grandparents off the grid. There he has to learn some humility, as well as share a bunk bed and bathroom with his grandparents’ guest, Hector. Will this grinch remain a Scrooge or will his heart grow three sizes?

I absolutely adored this Christmas romance! I loved all of the characters and the plot line was absolutely adorable! All of these gay Hallmark-like books are making me so excited for the season and really hopeful for actually movies in the future!

I loved all of the representation in this book! Mental health has such a negative stigma but the author handled it with grace and respect. I loved how self aware Matthew is and how he actively used the lessons he learned from therapy throughout the story. Representation like this is so important and the author really did an amazing job highlighting it.

I thought the audiobook was very funny and the narrator did a great job voicing all of the characters. The story itself is quirky and cute, which was portrayed perfectly in the recording.

Matthew was a very fleshed out and a mature character in my opinion. He has his flaws and makes mistakes, sometimes to the tune of millions of dollars. In the beginning, he is a typical, snobby rich kid with way too much money on their hands. I loved getting to the core of who he is and seeing the world through his lens. The coping mechanisms mentioned in the book were awesome too! I also really enjoyed Hector. My only wish is that he had his own chapters or maybe another pov book!

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I think it’s not only a great HEA and jolly holiday tale, but an amazing read for all readers! Just be careful about some of the steam!

Book 2 in the Boy Meets Boy series ~ totally a standalone.

Featuring ~ single 1st person POV, LGBT ~ MM & BI, rich brat, celebrity, Christmas, forced proximity, small town, opposites attract, anxiety disorder

This ended up being kinda cute and I liked it more than book 1. It took much longer for me to warm up to Matthew than it did for the "coffee girl" to make him a cinnamon macchiato with 3 1/4 shots of espresso, almond milk, a shot of oat milk and stevia.
I was rolling when he and Hector made cookies for the first time and he was beating the butter, like actually beating it with his fists 🤣. This does attest to how he was really clueless and has had people wait on him hand and foot for all his life. His grandparents made it a fun time with the judging of the cookies, in fact they were pretty delightful throughout.

All in all, I enjoyed watching Matthew go from a mean and entitled spoiled brat to a nice and caring young man. I'll probably read the next book in the series.

Narrated by Mark Sanderlin for 10 hours and 39 minutes, easy to follow at 2x. He did a great job.

Oh Christmas is coming and I'm so excited I got to dive into another Christmas novel early! I am absolutely in love with how much I loved this sweet Christmas title. This was a classic enemies to lovers, but Christmas themed where Matthew Prince is the snobby, scroogey type whose heart ends up warming up to Hector Martinez.

They were sweet, so adorable together, and the book did an amazing job talking about GAD (generalized anxiety disorder). Overall this was such a great Christmastime read that will definitely be on my read agains for this coming Holiday season!

I really lost myself in Hector and Matthew's love story! Timothy Janovsky successfully created depth with our main character Matthew Prince, when it would've been easy to write him off as a typical spoiled rich kid. Matthew has a generalized anxiety disorder, and as the story continues we see how some of his mistakes could've been appeals for attention from his parents. The resulting conversations that he has with them are heartbreaking. The narrator did a very great job conveying the emotions and growth that Matthew experienced.

Hector is such a sweet love interest, and although they started off on the wrong foot, I really rooted for them. Hector's vulnaribility and his honest communication was so lovely.

There were definitely ideas surrounding class and race that could've been exponded on more as a critique of Matthew's family's lifestyle especially with the people that his family hired to work in their household. Overall I really enjoyed this story, and I recommend it for anyone looking for a queer holiday, coming-of-age romance featuring a beautiful found family.

Thank you to Dreamscape Audio and Netgalley for a copy of the audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Final rating: 4,25

This was cute for what it was, but lacked depth in areas of race and classism that could have gone a lot further. A light and sweet romance story though, for the holiday season.

This was a delightful holiday read which I thoroughly enjoyed outside of the holiday season 😅

It's fun to have the story told from the POV of the "Grinch" character for a change. I thought the romance was very cute and believable.

I did struggle with how terrible Matthew's parents were. They did not in any way behave as parents to their child, and I feel like their intense harm got swept under the rug way too easily.

Ultimately the HEA was satisfying and the story was cute so that's all that really matters.

3.5 🌟

I love holiday reads, so I was excited t read my first one of the year, however, You're a Mean One Matthew Prince, just did not live up to my expectations of it. The premises is cute, and I think I could have really enjoyed the story if it hadn't been for the character of Matthew.

Yes, I realize that in black and white the description says that Matthew is spoilt, but geez, I found him to be the most unlikable character I have ever encountered. I have known spoilt people, heck I won't deny being a bit spoilt myself but after about 40 percent into the book I could keep it up no longer.

I really wasn't even that interested in Hector. I think it was because I was so tired of listening to Matthew whine about being sent to this poor small country town to stay with his grandparents, and that his money was cut off, and that there was not enough room in the closets for his clothes, yada yada yada, that honestly, I could care less anymore. I think I needed a more toned-down Matthew. I think a spoilt rich kid stuck in small town America with no money and no Bloomings could be funny, and the first few times that Matthew whined, it was, but it continued, and continued, and continued, and if I kept typing continue a few hundred more times, you'd understand.

Anyway, besides that, I thought the story had great potential, and that the writing was good,

I did listen to the audiobook of this and I liked the narrator, his voice was great to listen to and fit the story.

I am not saying you shouldn't read this book, as I said the storyline could have been fun, and probably will be for many rom-com lovers, it was either not the book or maybe not the time for me to read it.

You’re A Mean One, Matthew Prince
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romance
Format: Audiobook
Date Published: 10/4/22
Author: Timothy Janovsky
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Narrator: Mark Sanderlin
GR: 3.98

I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Dreamscape Media and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.

Synopsis: Matthew Prince is young, rich, and thoroughly spoiled. But one major PR misstep later, and Matthew is cut off and shipped away to spend the holidays in his grandparents’ charming small town hellscape. It’s bad enough he’s stuck in some festive winter wonderland—it’s even worse that he has to share space with Hector Martinez, an obnoxiously attractive local who’s unimpressed with anything and everything Matthew does. But even a Grinch can’t resist the unexpected joy of found family, and in the end, the forced proximity and infectious holiday cheer might be enough to make a lonely Prince’s heart grow three sizes this year.

My Thoughts: I absolutely ADORED this book!! The trope follows a forced proximity during the holidays, which worked incredibly well for this story. The mental health representation was done with grace, with the message incredible, you do not need to suffer and can get help. I just loved the developing relationship between Matthew and Hector with a connection so strong. The grinch aspect was wonderful. This story will put you in the festive mood! The narrator was strong and gave life to the characters, you felt you were right there, being drawn into this amazing love story. The characters were developed well with depth, witty banter, steamy chemistry, and creatively written. The author’s writing style was complex, swoony, flowed well, spicy, and kept you engaged for the whole story. Towards the end, I was on the edge of my seat for the sequence of events, I will not say more because I do not want to spoil for anyone. I would highly recommend that you preorder this swoony MM romance novel!

A Grump/sunshine trope with Christmas flair. Fans of Shitt's Creek, Hallmark Movies and A Christmas Carol will love this!

About the Book:
Matthew Prince is young, rich, spoiled and thoroughly unhappy! He’s top dog in New York City, but one major PR misstep later (anyone want to buy an island?) and Matthew is cut off and shipped away to spend the holidays in his grandparents’ small town.

When he gets there he finds out he has to share bunkbeds with Hector Martinez, an attractive townie who is unimpressed with anything and everything Matthew does and lets him know exactly what he thinks about him.

Just when it looks like the holiday season is bringing nothing but heated squabbles, the charity gala loses its coordinator and Matthew steps in as a saintly act to get home early on good behavior…with Hector as his co-contributer of course. Will the forced proximity and infectious holiday cheer be enough to make Prince’s heart grow three sizes this year?

TW: Panic attacks, mental illness and toxic friendships.

Review:
From strangers to unlikely allies to lovers, Matthew and Hector’s journey to romance while planning the town’s holiday fundraiser was incredible wholesome and stole my heart. The characters were believable and seemed like they could be really people, they were lovable, raw, honest and engaging. All of the relationship dynamics were so endearing, from Matthews grandparents, parents, old friends and new friends it felt like I was personally witnessing the banter, growth and love that he wanted to experience with others around him but his anxiety was holding him back.

My only complaint is the overuse of “dude” throughout, I get that it was supposed to be a funny gag but it went on far too long and farrrr too often.

I loved seeing Matthew grow from spoiled brat to hard working business owner. He learns to cope with his general anxiety disorder and openly communicate his mental health needs with friends/family. I also loved seeing Hector fall for Matthew and be there with him through the good times and the bad while supporting him no matter what.

🌶️ Spice Meter 🌶️ : 2 out of 5 Peppers

Final Thoughts: This was a really cute, predictable queer holiday romcom. If you have ever seen a Halmark movie you know what is going to happen but you still love it. Deffinatly a fun read to get into the holiday spirit.

Disclaimer: Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

This is a sweet queer Christmas story. A "grinch" who does not see the benefit of the holiday season and a small-town cutie share a room and so much more.

Overall, I really liked this story. The characters were fun and you understood the differences they have to overcome and dynamics. It is a hallmark movie recipe for success. A big city, rich, socialite makes a mistake that ends up having them celebrate the holiday season in a small cabin. Insert humble, quiet man who is not impressed by money or attitude.

The one thing I didn't love about this book is that in my opinion it is a little insta-love for me. They don't fall together too fast but I wish they held back a little more before they gave into each other. That being said the spicy scenes were great and felt realistic but still passionate. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a Christmas love story. Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!

Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape for this audio e-ARC, these opinions are my own. I have enjoyed Timothy Janovsky's books and this one was no different! I loved the Schitt's Creek vibe and David is one of my favorite character's on the show so I am glad Matthew Prince reminded me of him! I enjoy a good holiday rom com and I'm so happy that we are getting some of those this year! The book is of course funny and charming with a cast of lovable characters, who of course can be frustrating at time! I also enjoyed that Matthew's disabilities felt realistic and rang true of the experiences I myself have. I like how Timothy shows character development and struggles they have in such a realistic way! And of course Mark Sanderlin does an exceptional job of bringing the characters of You're a Mean One, Matthew Prince to life. I've listened to many or Mark's narration's and I have loved them all! I can't wait for this one to come out and if you like holiday rom coms you will love this!

CW: on page panic attack

I quite enjoyed this book! I’m usually not too much into holiday romances, but this one worked.

It’s basically a modern, queer retelling of A Christmas Carol and I think it was really well done. Plus, the characters in the book (Matthew and Hector) both love A Christmas Carol, which felt a bit meta, but also pretty sweet.

For some reason I did not expect Matthew to be the POV character in this book. I think the title made me think that the book wouldn’t be from his POV, and while he was a bit much to begin with, I did end up liking him.

Some things I really liked about this book: the queer rep, the way the sex scenes were written, lots of open communication between the MCs, that Matthew’s previous relationship was poly and that this wasn’t portrayed in a negative or fetishizing way, it was just the relationship he was in. I also liked the side characters and thought they had depth.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and it would recommend it if you’re looking for a cute, queer, holiday romcom.

You’re a Mean One, Matthew Prince
Monica: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This hopeful holiday M/M story blends humbled hotshot themes reminiscent of Schitts Creek with inimitably heartwarming Hallmark-esque magic to create a sweetly swoon-worthy romcom.

I deeply appreciate Timothy’s cleverness, wit and intentionality exercised through the title (𝑶𝑩𝑺𝑬𝑺𝑺𝑬𝑫), character development, diction, overall concept, representation of anxiety, character personalities and creative plot.

This is a brilliant riches to rags story wherein Hector (the self-preserving, slow to trust and responsible type) helps Matthew (a Scroogey David Rose executed to perfection) discover the *true meaning* of Christmas — a holiday Matthew has steeled himself to loathe due to childhood neglect.

From enemies to unlikely allies to lovers, Matthew and Hector’s tumultuous road to romance while planning the town’s holiday fundraiser stole my heart. The characters were thoughtfully brought to life and uniquely lovable, relatable, raw, honest, charming and engaging. Both the familial and romantic relationship dynamics were so endearing it felt like I was personally witnessing their banter and love while peeking through the frosted window pane of Matthew’s grandparent’s garland draped and chai-eggnog sugar cookie smelling home.

Audio-wise, the narration was excellent and I enjoyed how well the tone, inflection, energy and emotion varied according to characters, plot and scenes. Super well done and a joy to listen to.

My only mild critique is Hector’s overuse of the word “dude.” I understand it is intended as a quirky element of his character and thought the "dude jar" was a fun family tradition, however I think the explanation of the "dude jar" fell a bit too late in the story. By the time I reached that point I was a bit distracted by the "dude" overuse. I think sliding the jar explanation into the story a bit earlier and eliminating some of the ‘dudes’ used when addressing Matthew (even considering its employment as an inside joke) will elevate the novel to festive romcom royalty fit for a 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆.

I thoroughly enjoyed the enemies-to-lovers development, interesting character backstories, underlying messages, societal themes addressed and impressive writing style. Even the book description is phenomenally written. We will definitely be keeping an eye out for more from Timothy!

IG post to come!

*Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this audio ARC in exchange for an honest review. Pub date: October 4, 2022

Spoiled, fashion-forward socialite gets financially cut off from his family and sent off to live with his small town grandparents to rehabilitate his image, only to find he has to share a room with a hottie student? What starts out as his nightmare changes course throughout—big David Rose vibes if you’re a Schitt’s Creek fan. The attitude in this audiobook was a bit much at times but its a fun one with lots of personal growth and holiday themes. My only complaint is the banal overuse of “dude” throughout.

Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for an ALC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Note: I also had the EBOOK/ARC of the novel but enjoyed the audiobook so much that I listened to most of this book rather than reading from my kindle.

I. LOVE. THIS. NOVEL.

Did I read it with more than 100 days until Christmas? Yes. Yes, I did.

To recap, I did read Never Been Kissed by this same author earlier this year and thoroughly enjoyed that (4 stars in March 2022). There's something so wholesome about this storyline too.

I was a little skeptical (It does have a privileged rich boy as the main character) but ironically, I think people can relate to the "Prince who isn't very charming".

Janovsky does a fantastic job at putting Matthew's privileged-blind-spot on full display (especially in chapter one) that it makes his character arc ten times better. Although a part of me wishes we got a glimpse into Hector's POV, I loved that the reader was put in Matthew's headspace because of the mental health representation. Round of applause to Janovsky for not "curing" or minimizing Matthew's diagnosis by the end of the novel. His well-being was overall better than at the start but not erased. I find a lot of times authors might want to use mental health as a plot point and then that plot point suddenly disappears, and the character isn't the same character. That didn't happen here, we get to see how all the side characters interrelate with Matthew and we get to see his honest inner turmoil.

Matthew and Hector are the perfect grumpy-sunshine trope anyone's festive heart desires. The brewing of the relationship was done so smooth that I felt it was a bit of an authentic/realistic take to it. Yes, it's a Christmas novel that's liable to have its Hallmark-y moments but I think this relationship has enough realism that it could easily happen in real life.

This review is getting long but anyways I loved the duo and all the side characters too.

It's the perfect audiobook to cozy up with under a blanket fort with some chai tea eggnog sugar cookies ;)

This was pretty cute. Also pretty predictable but honestly, I'm not mad at it. I didn't love this one as much as Timothy's last book but it's still a super cute holiday rom-com and one that I think will be rereading closer to December. Maybe I'll be able to put more thoughts into a review then.

Gay MC, bi MC, anxiety rep

4.25 stars, rounded down.

A queer holiday romcom, featuring a gay MC, bisexual MC, and other queer side characters.

Michael is a rich and spoiled guy from New York, who was sent to live with his grandparents in a small town during the holidays as a punishment for making a poor financial decision (buying an island...yes, you read that right). When he gets there, he is already dreading the experience and plotting how he can return home as fast as possible. However, upon arrival, he meets Hector, the handsome, grumpy, college student who is living with his grandparents and whom he will be sharing a bunkbed with throughout the holidays. While plotting his return, Michael finds that despite the distance he tries to put between himself and the holidays, he falls prey to the small town Christmas charm, as well as to the charm and comfort of the guy in the upper bunk.

I loved seeing Michael grow from spoiled to appreciative. He learns to better manage his anxiety by learning to more openly communicate his mental health needs with friends/family, and figures out what he wants in life outside of the comfort of his family's money. I also loved seeing Hector fall for Michael and coax some growth from him.

Overall, this book was a delightful holiday romcom that I highly recommend. 4

I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Mark Sanderlin, via NetGalley. An advanced reader's copy of this audiobook was provided to me via NetGalley by Dreamscape Media in exchange for an honest review.

TWs: mental illness, generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks