It's been a while since I read Big Love, so I read this as a stand-alone. It works fine in that regard.
This YA novel is about courage--the courage to be true to yourself no matter how non-conforming that is or the cost in bullying from others. Truman, the main character, lives in a small Ohio town and he’s openly gay and quite femme presenting. He is a senior in high school and doesn't hide his light under a bushel, so to speak. His has friends and a single mom who are incredibly supportive, so this isn't a bleak story in any way, though there is some bullying.
Truman's love interest is Mike, a good-looking, butch guy who has recently moved to town. He was gay in his previous home of Seattle, but he's trying to fly under the radar in Truman's small town. Although immediately attracted to Truman, for quite a while Mike ignores him, not wanting to reveal his own homosexuality. He's a bit hot and cold with Truman, but fortunately, he ultimately steps up to the plate.
There's a high school play Truman is involved with that brings matters to a head with both the town bullies and with Mike. Fortunately, Truman handles it with aplomb and we get an HEA.
If you enjoy gay coming of age stories, you will enjoy this one by Rick Reed. As usual, his writing is terrific and I read this through without a pause. Recommended.