Author Mike Maimone’s book “Guess What? I Love You” tells the story of his relationship with Howard Bragman — an influential Hollywood publicist and openly gay man
In “Guess What? I Love You,” musician, producer and author Mike Maimone offers an honest, moving account of love, loss and the radical act of staying open to possibility. The memoir traces Maimone’s relationship with Howard Bragman, one of Hollywood’s most influential publicists, and one of the most visible openly gay power brokers the industry has ever known.
Bragman was a singular force in entertainment and culture. Long before public acceptance caught up, he guided high-profile figures through coming out at moments when careers and personal safety were on the line. His clients included Chaz Bono, Meredith Baxter, Don Lemon, Chely Wright and Michael Sam, among many others. His work extended far beyond LGBTQ advocacy: he was also a pioneer of crisis management, a USC professor, bestselling author, and trusted television commentator widely respected for his moral clarity and fearless candor.
Credit: Mike MaimoneMaimone and Bragman met later in life, when both had given up on finding their “forever guy.” But thanks to Mike’s “Year of Yes” mindset, rooted in openness to the unexpected, what followed was a partnership defined by humor, personal awakenings, and a great musical soundtrack. When Bragman died suddenly, Maimone was left to navigate profound grief, which he did through words and music.
“Guess What? I Love You” is also the title of the memoir’s companion album. Produced by Maimone, the songs range from funky piano blues to poignant ballads, ending with an alt-country revival. Voicemails offer intimacy and guide the listener through the narrative. Production is at times sonically lush and rich in texture, with layered arrangements that mirror the emotional complexity of the book. Together, the album and memoir form a single work—an exploration of love’s endurance and an invitation to remain open to connection and possibility.
Both the memoir and the companion album, “Guess What? I Love You,” are now available. The book can be purchased at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org and at mikemaimone.com. The album is also available at mikemaimone.com.
