Whistler Independent Book Awards
This is a powerful and poignant story about two people for whom true love is not always enough. A unique story that keeps the readers guessing – and hoping – until the end.
As a book, it does an excellent job of exploring loyalty, friendship, self-respect, identity and different forms of love. There are many questions here and no easy answers.
This is a book that I couldn’t put down until the end. A tale of semi-requited love and a thoughtful exploration of the complexity of human relationships. A moving story that deserves an audience.
Julia
If you are looking for an emotional read than this book is for you. It will take you on an emotional roller coaster. I usually don’t read books like this but something about this book drew me in and I’m so glad I read it. It was well written and has a great story that will make a difference in some people’s lives. You will fall in love with Colin and Christine and their story. This is a book I will never forget and the emotions it brought out of me.
Emma
I received a copy of this book from a friend. I believe it is a truly important book that sheds light on how the people around a #metoo victim also copes and heals. The book is a powerful read and offers healing in so many different ways. The book is stunning, raw, inspirational, and utterly transparent. You will begin to read this book and you will not stop until it is finished.
Leila
What an extraordinary love story! Thank you very much for it. I was impressed by your book.
OnlineBookClub.org Cecilia L
In his bittersweet memoir, French Toast, Colin MacArthur shares his relationship with Christine, a victim of childhood abuse. Christine’s inability to deal with her pain despite MacArthur’s commitment to their on-again, off-again relationship exemplifies the far-reaching ripple effect of sexual abuse. The book traverses themes of unconditional love, abuse, sexuality, LGBT issues, and acceptance. MacArthur dedicates the book to Christine and “all those who have suffered abuse at the hands of another.”
When I initially read the book’s synopsis, I was somewhat reluctant to select it due to the subject matter. However, after reading the sample on Amazon, I was drawn in by MacArthur’s eloquent writing style. He masterfully portrayed the abuse Christine suffered without explicit details; instead, he conveyed her childish confusion, fear, and shame. Likewise, references to their sexual relationship and Christine’s confusion about her sexuality focused on intimacy and MacArthur’s emotional supportiveness. The book contained no profanity or crude sexual references.
Given that the book was over 300 pages and spanned the years from MacArthur at 30 to approaching retirement age, it consistently moved at an engaging pace. MacArthur’s pristinely edited first-person narrative was so evocative that I often experienced conflicting emotions simultaneously, such as compassion/frustration and discouragement/hope. For example, Christine told MacArthur that their relationship was over, she had moved on, and he needed to do the same, then by the time he walked her home, she asked, “How would you like to date your wife?” While I felt compassion for Christine’s pain, I found her constant stream of mixed messages frustrating. At the same time, like MacArthur, I hopefully rooted for their relationship amidst discouraging circumstances.
On the same note, my favorite aspect of the book is MacArthur’s ability to transparently divulge details about his relationship with Christine. I admire his patience, devotion, and willingness to look beyond her back-and-forth rejection of him; he truly prioritizes her well-being even when it requires them being apart. Having been raised with three sisters, MacArthur dismisses his stepfather’s disrespectful attitude toward women: “I had always been interested in these delightful creatures for as long as I could remember.” The ending is satisfying, and although it is not wrapped in a bow, it is not weighty as might be expected.
I have no dislikes or suggested improvements for this beautifully written memoir. I am pleased to rate it 4 out of 4 stars. I recommend it to fans of relationship-driven narratives, childhood abuse victims, and supportive family members. Although the book’s synopsis cautions that it may be triggering to sensitive readers, I will reiterate that MacArthur approaches the issue of abuse gently and tastefully.