The Front Runner

By: Patricia Nell Warren

Narrated by: Christian Rummel

First published in 1974, The Front Runner raced to international acclaim - the first novel about gay love to become popular in the mainstream.

In 1975, coach Harlan Brown is hiding from his past at an obscure New York college, after he was fired from Penn State University on suspicion of being gay. A tough, lonely ex-Marine of 39, Harlan has never allowed himself to love another man. Then Billy Sive, a brilliant young runner, shows up on his doorstep. He and his two comrades, Vince Matti and Jacques LaFont, were just thrown off a major team for admitting they are gay. Harlan knows that, with proper training, Billy could go to the '76 Olympics in Montreal. He agrees to coach the three boys under strict conditions that thwart Billy's growing attraction for his mature but compelling mentor.

The lean, graceful front runner with gold-rim glasses sees directly into Harlan's heart. Billy's gentle and open acceptance of his sexuality makes Harlan afraid to confront either the pain of his past, or the challenges which lay in wait if their intimacy is exposed. But when Coach Brown finds himself falling in love with his most gifted athlete, he must combat his true feelings for Billy or risk the outrage of the entire sports world - and their only chance at Olympic gold.

©1974 Patricia Nell Warren (P)2011 Audible, Inc.

A Great Love Story From the Past

Loved the book. A great look at gay life in the mid 70’s. A bit dated, but lovely.

Excellent read

A beautiful love story, enjoyed the pace in which the story evolved. I would read it again.

great sports story, great love story.

this is a book for anyone who has ever loved or for anyone who wants to love.

Life isn’t a race, it’s a marathon

You will also fall in love with the charisma, kindness, and resilience of runner Billy Sive.

The performance of the narration is great! Very easy to listen to and follow along.


My only critique of the story is the misuse of pronouns and misgendering of the trans women in the story. As a reader you do have to take it with a grain of salt due to the book being written in the 70’s where gay culture was not as accepting to trans women. The trans characters themselves are wonderful and add warmth and sometimes comedic relief to the story.

OMG

Amazing story. A new favorite of mine. I laughed and cried.

Thank you so much