This is a fun, witty and very British story that manages to explore plenty of aspects of modern gay life while keeping the tone light-hearted. Gabriel’s post-break-up spiral is messy, relatable and often hilarious, buoyed by the unwavering support of his best friends Tasha and Evie. Between dodgy Grindr prospects, a possible Post Office romance and the drama of Tasha’s interfering boyfriend, Gabe’s life is never short of complications. I enjoyed the mixed format of storytelling, a blend of first-person narration, text messages and other creative touches that reflect Gabriel’s aspirations to be a writer, even if he rarely puts pen to paper. The use of footnotes added extra humour, though at times they felt a little like they were written for readers unfamiliar with queer culture. The Manchester setting is a real highlight, full of recognisable details and cultural touchstones, Light, funny and chaotic in all the best ways, this is an entertaining read with moments of genuine insight. Read more at The Secret Book Review.

Light and fun with great characters. Makes me want to catch up with my friends in Manchester! I read it in a couple of days and both laughed and cried. The story is told from the perspective of a gay male in his 20s but I think there is a risk of it being limited in its promotion to a queer audience. I’m in my mid 30s and straight and loved it! The characters are insightful and well written, I hope there is a sequel!

I often find books that are intended to be funny a bit irritating, because they try too hard. This is a genuinely funny book, it made me laugh and smile throughout, and it has a genuine warmth to it. I liked the various different styles and lighthearted approach to the story. The characters are relatable and the whole book has a light feel to it, even though it deals well with some serious issues. I wouldn’t usually read this type of story (it was recommended to me) because I’d assume that I’m not in its target market, but I genuinely enjoyed it and will be recommending it to other gammons.

CAL SPEET – SPIRALLING ***** This is the humorous story of Mancunian gay Gabe and his girlfriends after his split from Seamus, his boyfriend. One learns all about his relationships, gay and straight, and there’s a glossary of gay terms and expressions which I found useful as an older gay man. Some I knew; many I didn’t. You also must be okay with lots of long texts between characters including the time of each one and long, humorous lists: Depression List, for example, where he lists all the reasons he’s depressed. Number one. I am unemployed. If you find this sort of young man humour annoying, this novel isn’t for you. 28 December: (2 missed calls), 29 December (6 missed calls) and so on. Personally, although I’m not the target reader (twice the main character’s age) I loved it. You get to learn about ‘Polite Vers’, ‘Drunk Vers’, Floppy Top, Dom Top (another list: don’t ask) and each of the men he meets. You become immersed in the gay culture of Canal Street, as well as modern music, film, TV, cultural references and it bowls along at a rate of knot. If you’re on the wave-length of Gabe and his cronies, well worth a read.

If I were to describe this as a queer Bridget Jones, it would only be because it has all the warmth and humour of that landmark book. This is the story of a year in the life of Gabriel as he traverses his newly single and unemployed status. His circle includes best mates, Tasha and Evie, brother Dan and a wider circle of friends who pop up to help him through. There is real understanding in Cal Speet's portrayal of Gabriel's despair, hope and resilience. A real antidote to all the tough times at the moment. This will definitely take your mind to a happier place