This short is a sequel to Finding Zach, although it does not follow the MCs from that book. It isn't necessary to read the first book before this one, although it will add a bit more depth to your understaning.I liked the story, but let me say right now that I HATED THAT STUPID COINCIDENCE NEAR THE END. I won't spoiler it here, but it was STUPID AND UNNECESSARY.Thanks, I feel much better now. ;-)Other than that -- this is the story of a journalist, Brian, who has retired from active journalism and is now teaching at Columbia U. in Chicago. He is burnt out and screwed up, in part because he spent years immersed in researching and writing about Zach's life (Zach from the first book). If you've read that book, you'll understand why that could be stressful. Brian is pretty much a completely shut down cynic, who never does any more than one night stands, never connects with people on a personal level, and who hates Christmas.The other MC is Jerry, a physical therapist who is warm and caring and never does one night stands. Brian goes to Jerry for treatment a few weeks before Christmas, when he aggravates an old knee injury. Brian gradually feels himself opening up under Jerry's influence, and eventually he is even able to reconnect wth family that he hasn't really spoken with for years. Like most shorts, I'm gonna complain that this is too short. The relationship developed too quickly, as well as the reconciliation with the family. This is all taking place in less than a month, and that just makes my eyes roll. Nonetheless, thanks to Speedwell's writing talent, it's still a good read. 3.5 stars, rounding up. Brian was bothersome in Finding Zach, but I enjoyed reading his story in Hopes and Fears. We get see another side of him. Not so confident, and a man with issues that are revealed as the story moves along at good pace. He does have a soul. What he did in Finding Zach had an affect on him and is nicely explained in brief details.Jerry is sweet, perceptive, and so much fun. David in FZ mourned the lost of Jerry. I see why because Jerry is just a nice guy who deserve the chance for happiness. Will he get it with Brian? Hopes and Fears is enjoyable and tightly written. An excellent post story to FZ.
