Tightskin Book Reviews

---

"Dr. Tightskin is an engaging story filled with amusing dialogue and surprising events. The witty dialogue moves the plot forward, and the main characters’ personalities bring the various storylines to life. The three primary characters have distinctive personalities and wonderful descriptors that allow readers to imagine them easily. From Tyrone/Tara Kline, a forty-year-old transwoman to Dr. Rupert Shapiro and Dr. Leonard Hirsch, two middle-aged surgeons in the throes of a mid-life crisis, exacerbated by male menopause depression, along with many other fun loving and rich supporting characters throughout. The story’s setup and pacing are among its many strengths, staring with the two desperate surgeon’s desire to completely transform a transexual male into a female goddess, in order to win an award and restore their fading careers -- now jeopardized by a new surgeon in town, Dr. Richard Picard with his new 'face transforming machine.' The story is a rollercoaster ride, from start to finish, with many heartfelt storylines in-between, which provide both depth and warm throughout. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romantic comedies of a very unique brand, as it is a highly entertaining story you will find hard to put down."

“I found Dr. Tightskin to be a highly engaging and emotionally rich story that blends sharp, satirical humor with genuine heart. The story stands out for its vivid, memorable characters especially Rupert and Tara who feel messy, flawed, and deeply human, which made it easy for me to stay invested in their journeys. I really enjoyed how the narrative balances over-the-top, chaotic moments with real emotional stakes, creating a reading experience that is both highly entertaining and meaningful. The humor consistently lands, often making me laugh out loud, while still allowing space for tension, vulnerability, and growth. Throughout the book, I felt immersed in the characters’ struggles with love, control, identity, and self-worth, and I appreciated how those themes developed into a satisfying and heartfelt resolution. The overall story is compelling, dynamic, and emotionally rewarding, leaving me both entertained and genuinely connected to the characters till the very end which was also surprisingly delightful. There was so much to like, it made me want to read this story again.” 

"It was so refreshing to read a truly unique plot that I had not encountered before.

Right off the bat, I knew I was in for a ride and I was not wrong. Throughout the entirety of the piece, I was able to chuckle to myself. I live in California and am very familiar with the LA lifestyle (both real and stereotypical). You feature dynamic characters, which is an important element to me. I liked that this story had dark elements but wasn’t an entirely dark piece. It's got humor, drama, and edge. Readers will remain engaged because they are

tracking all the unique characters throughout. Their many conversations were

funny, goofy, and enjoyable to read. I also appreciated that the title of the book made sense almost immediately. Overall, an excellent piece of high-quality, satirical work that will be very enjoyable for all readers." 

"The writer gets right into the meat of story immediately, while not hold back, which is surprisingly refreshing. Readers will know what they’re in for immediately, and fun ride with delightfully original characters to follow. The dialogue really expresses personality in your characters and is upbeat, often quite funny. Rupert and Leonard have some of the most engaging conversations, as their interactions introduce a dynamic level of conflict. This has excellent readability throughout, with a solid the flow and it didn’t feel rushed at any point. Your writing is satirical in a way that I personally really enjoy. I loved how each of the characters were so drastically different. My favorite was, hands-down, Tyrone/Tara who was so easy to love and route for throughout."

"Overall, your novel is an interesting and captivating read that deals with love, identity, and change. The readers are drawn from the vividness of the story, strong characters, dialogues, and thematic development. Your main characters, especially Tara and Rupert, have distinct motivations and unique personalities. The readers become fond of Rupert (this ol' grump) due to his amazing change from an allergic-to-change man to a man desperately in love with Tara and due to his intense inner conflict. The complexity of Tara adds substantial depth to her character, particularly due to her contradictory sentiments for Ned and Rupert, and the major life change she goes through. The dialogue really expresses personality in your characters and is upbeat, often quite funny. Rupert and Leonard have some of the most engaging conversations, as their interactions introduce a dynamic level of conflict. Love the story overall! Very original and refreshingly unique!"

"The story hook is strong; a disgraced Beverly Hills plastic surgeon trying to regain his reputation through a risky, controversial operation. Dr. Tightskin is a satire/comedy with social commentary, much in the vein of My Fair Lady and The Birdcage. It immediately positions the story tonally as comedic, flamboyant, and transformative. That sets expectations are well throughout, the establish characters who are both unique and diverse, from completely different backgrounds in every fun possible way. The personal and professional rivalry are hilarious, from Dr. Shapiro vs. Dr Picard regarding their competitive medical nature), to the personal career crisis and divorces shared between best friends and fellow surgeon Rupert and Leonard, to the social/gender differences between Rupert and Tyrone/Tara. regarding their gender identities and, homophobia. These create natural conflict points that d fuel both comedy and drama throughout the well-paced, well-structured humorous and dramatic story. The Beverly Hills medical world feels vivid, detailed, and authentic as well as the trans world of West Hollywood." 

Being reviewed now