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New Men (2nd Edition)

A Romantic Journey of Self-Discovery Inspired by True Stories

by Mario Dell'Olio

About NEW MEN

New Men is about Anthony and Kevin; both are secretly gay and get into a steamy, romantic relationship. Will they stay together, facing all the homophobia from society in the 80s?


Three passionate young men travel to Rome eager to begin an exciting new chapter of their lives. International studies amid ancient ruins and romantic fountains expose them to an extraordinary new world.


Wonderment, homesickness, and adventure transform into the need for human touch and comfort. In the shadow of the Vatican, Anthony falls in love with Kevin leading to a passionate affair that can only endure in secret. Fearing the consequences of being discovered, they cling to each other and their newfound love.


Often the third wheel of the trio, Miguel can think of no one but the enchanting Maria. Letting go of his plans for the future, he throws caution to the wind as he quakes in her thrall. Does Maria return his affections? Can these clandestine love affairs survive the foolishness of youth? Will their newly discovered passions win out over their ambitions?


Journey with the New Men as their bonds are tested by passion, prejudice, and ambition.

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Praise & Reviews

I absolutely loved following each man's story, background, and bias as situations arose with members of the church and their student groups. It was heartbreaking and tender, packed with real and raw emotion that just pulled at your heartstrings and gave the reader a lot to think about. Such an inspired story that I couldn't put down!” – Ash Knight, author


“A complex journey of immersive self-discovery between faith and identity. A great read, talented author.” – Rory Michaelson, author


A deeply original and honest book that took me into a world I could never know. What a terrific book.” – Chase Hackett, author


I absolutely devoured this story! It provides an inside look at a group of young seminarians trying to navigate through the duplicity, corruption, hypocrisy, and traumatic experiences of the religious systems perpetuated by the Catholic Church. I loved the different points of view of the characters during the 1980s and their insights on love, self-identity, and self-realization… the struggle between good and evil is revealed within the delusion perpetrated by the powerful men of the Vatican City. A must-read!” – Lali A. Love, award-winning best-selling author


This was a fascinating journey.  Take the journey with these three men and see what you think for yourself. Your conclusions may surprise you as they did me.” – Starred Review, 5/5


Good storytelling, a wide range of characters and a heartbreaking tale. I felt intense anger at the Roman Catholic church one minute, and pure joy at a love story the next.” – Conor J. Bredin, author


“A multi-layered treat. This book was a fascinating romance-against-the-odds and I’d recommend it to anyone who is LGBTQ+ friendly.” – Matt Adcock, author


“Dell’Olio flawlessly details the conflict of being gay and Catholic in an intolerant time. He opens a window into priesthood, Church politics, and corruption. This book is perfect for anyone dreaming of something more, finding the strength to believe in yourself, or searching for where you belong. One of the easiest five stars I’ve ever given.” – Halo Scot, author


“The struggle between faith and sexuality is on full display in this dramatic story. I fell in lovewith the characters and rooted for them as they learn to love and be loved.” – Starred Review, 5/5


This book is many wonderful things. I highly recommend this book for those who want an authentic account of growing into self.” – Anya Pavelle, author

Mario Dell'Olio

About MARIO DELL'OLIO

Mario Dell’Olio has published five books, two were finalists for the Wishing Shelf Book Awards.

His latest release, Forbidden Rome, is a complex and timeless journey of beautiful self-discovery between faith and identity, full of passion, prejudice, and ambition. Mario's previous release, New Men: Bonds of Brotherhood, is a romantic journey of self-discovery inspired by true stories. Filled with romance, hope, and desire.

Mario's first book is a memoir, Coming About: Life in the Balance, about a sailing adventure going terribly wrong. The second book, Body and Soul, is an LGBTQA+ fiction that explores the strife of coming out during the 1980s.

Books by Mario Dell'Olio

Forbidden Rome

Forbidden Rome

New Men (1st Ed.)

New Men (1st Ed.)

Cappuccino: A Romantic Short Story

Cappuccino: A Romantic Short Story

NEW MEN: A Romantic Journey of Self Discovery Inspired by True Stories
by Mario Dell'Olio
290 Pages

Adult Fiction / LGBT Romance
LGBTQ+ Biographical Fiction
LGBTQ+ Fiction / Coming of Age

​Hardcover: 9781990158629
Paperback: 9781990158605
Ebook: 9781990158612

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