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Cia

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  1. Cia

    March CSR Feature: In His Image by ChromedOutCortex

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    For this longer month, I've actually chosen a short story for the CSR blog readers. I think sometimes the longer a month is, the more I feel the need to cram into my life, or the more I have going on, and the less I have time to just... be. That time to stop, reflect, and take stock of what is truly important is a huge part of In His Image by ChromedOutCortex. Please check it out and come back to share your thoughts at the end of the month!
    In His Image
    @ChromedOutCortex
    Length: 3,891
    Description: In His Image is a short, introspective story about Ronald, a young man in his mid-20s, struggling with his faith, identity, and feelings for a male co-worker, Chris. Raised in a conservative religious family, Ronald faces confusion and shame as he grapples with his desires and beliefs. As his friendship with Chris deepens, he experiences a pivotal moment of emotional and physical intimacy, marking the start of his self-acceptance. The story ends with Ronald’s breakthrough, leaving the outcome open-ended for readers to imagine.
    A Reader Said: I identified with Ron all the way through the story. As someone you might label as “very religious” I found it true to life and quite beautiful;  there was nothing offensive to me at all. Thanks for sharing this poignant journey ~ B Warner
    Come back on the last Monday of the month, March 31st to check out the Discussion day and share your thoughts! 
  2. Cia

    March CSR Discussion Day: In His Image by ChromedOutCortex

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Did you manage to read this month's CSR Feature, In His Image, by ChromedOutCortex? It was very short, under 4k, so you can also go read it now! Be sure to share your thoughts on the story below, after you also check out my interview with this month's featured author! 
    Chocolate or Vanilla?
    ** Vanilla, then you can pile on whatever you want. 🙂
    If you were an animal, what would you be?
    ** Wild horse - they run free, not worried about what's around the corner, exploring their environment at their own pace.
    What’s one location you’d love to visit to research for a story?
    ** Great question; I haven't really thought about this as I'm so content where I am and travelling within the country. I'm close to my ex and our kids, my partner is close by -- it's really an ideal situation to be in. But if I had to go somewhere, I'd love to relocate to Canadas' West Coast.
    What’s something personal about you people might be surprised to know?
    ** Dad to two amazing adult kids (F18, M20). Also, I have an embarrassing memory from grade school that still makes me cringe. There was a popular, cute guy in school, and I could recognize him just by his backside. One day, I thought I’d strike up a conversation with him at the water fountain. I blurted out, ‘Save some water for the fish!’ He turned around—and it wasn’t him. I’ve never moved so fast in my life!
    What brought you to GA? 
    ** I was posting on Reddit, but wanted to share my writing with more people and engage with them more. Reddit is great, so many people -- but like most social media, most are simply scrolling from one post to another. It's difficult to capture their attention. I also want to continually learn from other more established writers/authors and see what others are writing about.
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
    ** Ideas! There are lots around us, but taking one and putting it into words can be a challenge. Sometimes something comes to me in the middle of the night, and I force myself to get-up and write. Other times, I can stare at the screen for hours at one line an I'm a complete blank. The idea is in my head, I've planned it all out like watching a movie, but when I start writing... nothing comes out.
    What’s the best part of being an author?
    ** Being able to expose yourself, without exposing yourself. I've always felt that a writer (I find it so hard to call myself an author... am I an author? Imposter syndrome at its worst) writes about things important to them—about challenges they’ve faced and overcome, or maybe not overcome. I like to write about my own experiences, as well as the experiences of those I see around me, to provide an alternative perspective. When I read other stories, some are pure fiction or fantasy, but I often wonder how much of the author is in that story. What message are they trying to convey? What part of their soul did they pour into those words? It’s fascinating to think about, and it’s something I hope readers might ponder when they read my work.
    Sometimes in stories, you can see the message clearly, but other times you have to read between the lines—it’s complex. I think I like those types of stories best, the ones where you have to really think about the message. They stay with you long after you’ve finished reading, challenging you to reflect and see the world in a new way.
    What lead you to explore the angle of religious conflict with coming out in In His Image?
    ** I come from a "mixed religious family". We never really grew up with religion. My mom, sort-of practiced and some things just stuck with me over the years. As I thought more and more about my roots, I read more about others in similar situations, I wanted to explore how religion can shape your identity and your feelings. On one hand, you've been brought up with deep ties to your faith and community, but you're told to behave in a certain way because faith doesn't align with who you are -- but this causes an internal conflict with who you are. What do you do? Do you give up your religion? Do you learn to coexist? It's hard to do both, and it's also hard to do neither. Along with this you're trying to fit into society as a whole.
    Do you have a favorite scene or line from the story?
    ** Does God make broken people? Haven’t we been created in His image? Having gone through life doubting who I was (and sometimes, am—causes tremendous mental struggles), I remember hearing this from friends who were more religious than I ever was. While I always knew I was gay, I suppressed those feelings until I couldn’t. It’s a question that still lingers in my mind, a reflection of the internal conflict between faith (even though I was never religious), identity, and self-acceptance.
    Could you share anything about your current or upcoming work with readers?  
    ** So many ideas!  I'm working on a murder mystery, but it's slowly getting out of hand. Dozens of characters, world building, character building, several places within the world, trying to build an intricate web between characters and situations while maintaining some mystery about what it all means. Besides this, I'm trying to focus on shorter stories that are easy to read and perhaps allow the reader to pause and think about what they have and to cherish that. I wouldn't say that I am trying to moralize anything, but often we look past what we have and only realize it later in life.
  3. Cia

    March Signature Feature: Pardon my Polari by Dodger

    By Cia,


    Signature Feature
    Length: 12,647
    Description: The story of Anthony Larkin, his struggle against injustice, and the evolution of gay rights in the UK.
    The characters in this story occasionally converse in Polari—a secret slang adopted by gay men in the UK during the fifties and sixties to evade prosecution. The Polari words are in italics, and translations are provided in the chapter end notes. A Reader said: A very realistic look back at one of the darker parts of UK history. There is humour, there is sadness, but above all there is realism. Well written and told, this should be a compulsory read. ~mancunian
    If you want to spread the word about Dodger's story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!

    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!
  4. Cia

    February CSR Discussion Day: Just Keep Swimming by JJ Quinn

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Well this month has flown by! I can't tell if I was 'just keep swimming' against the flood of my life or if life was sweeping me along. Sometimes we have to pause and evaluate what's happening and where we go from here, like Liam in JJ Quinn's story, Just Keep Swimming. I hope you enjoyed this month's CSR selection and have some comments to share below, but first, my interview with him! 
    Chocolate or Vanilla?
    We’re eating vanilla ice cream all the way, especially with an obscene excess of rainbow sprinkles covering each creamy inch. For other aspects of my life… Who likes being vanilla all the time? 😉
    If you were an animal, what would you be?
    A Capuchin monkey. I love the Indiana Jones movies and thought the monkey was so cute in Raiders of the Lost Ark, even though he met such an unhappy end; “Bad dates.” I’ve had more than a few bad dates in my own past that made me want to play dead when they asked for a round two, so I could relate.
    What brought you to GA?
    I’ve been writing since I was a kid and for a while I wrote professionally for a small private LGBTQ publishing house, but the stress of deadlines got to be too much for me because at the time, I was going to school for my master’s degree and working full-time as a kindergarten teacher. When the publishing house closed a year or so after I published Chasing Halos and Heroes, I just gave up on writing altogether due to health issues and just changes in life. I began writing again a few years later, posting on other erotic websites. When I reposted a revised version of Halos on another site, a reader here, who’s also a reader there, told me that I might find a better fit for my work on GA because I try to write erotic fiction and romance, not just straight sex and kink, which was the norm on the other site. However, I was very intimidated because I’d read stories on GA before under an old name, the quality of writing here is superb. I wasn’t sure I deserved to be here honestly. But, thankfully @Cane23 convinced me to try. So, here I am, with no plans to go anywhere else! Everyone has been so helpful and supportive, and I feel very grateful and blessed to be among so many amazing writers, and that my work has been well received so far.
    What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
    Honestly it depends on the season and what my body allows me to do at the time. Dealing with MS means that what you want to do, and what you can do, aren’t always the same thing. But I’ve been a voracious reader for years and even though I sometimes have issues with my right eye so I can’t read books as often as I want to (It also makes writing difficult at times) I listen to a lot of audiobooks. I am totally a Hoopla lover. I’ll read anything, but I will admit I won’t listen to erotic romance novels because I feel like a guilty kid, even when I am alone in my car and want to sing “la la la la!!!” at the top of my lungs until certain sections are over because of the ‘sound effects’ LOL I read a lot of urban and paranormal fantasy, and really enjoy the ones that are dramatized versions with full casts because it’s like listening to a movie wherever you go. I love being outside, so gardening and sitting around the fire pit in the summer and early fall, just enjoying our small rural town is always nice. I did go to art school New York City so even though I never really did anything with that degree professionally, I do like art and being creative. I used to make fake foods out of inedible materials (which I know sounds soooo weird but it is actually a thing!) for places like restaurants. For a while I was able to work with a few local bakeries and ice cream shops by making models of their best sellers that wouldn’t mold or melt. That was fun. I also like messing around with clay and ceramics. But I always come back to writing. It helps with my weirdo dreams. When I don’t write, they get even odder so it’s in the best interest of myself and everyone who has to interact with me, that I do get it all out on paper.
    What’s one location you’d love to go to research for a story?
    I’d love to travel everywhere, so I guess my destination(s) would depend on the story. I have so many ideas bouncing around in my head. The issue is in getting them actually written. Based on stories I am working on now, maybe Greece or Spain? I do love road trips and my partner and I have gone to a lot of places in the U.S. I really love the south and southwest (even though I grew up in Spanish Harlem, New York City) so a lot of my stories tend to take place out there. I always say I was southern in another life because the accents… Yeah, they’re sexy. 😊
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
    Yes! SEX SCENES!!! OYE! I write erotic fiction because I like to read it, but the truth is that I cringe every single time I have to write a sex scene. I find it tedious to make love scenes sexy and well-written because I don’t do bow chicka bow wow smut. When I end up with a story that has to end on a scene that’s heavily smutty, I want to pull my hair out and usually procrastinate, which is what happened with Just Keep Swimming. I ran out of time to submit it for the anthology (I learned about it with less than 2 months until the deadline) and when I tried to finish it just for regular posting before the end of 2024, I procrastinated forever because the last chapter was almost entirely a love scene, and I just couldn’t get into it. I prefer plotting stories and focusing on strong dialogue and character development. Keeping my stories tight and smart, but also sexy, is very much a challenge. I also have a lot of issues typos because of the eye issues I mentioned earlier, as well as stiff hands and spasms that occur because of the MS. I write my stories by hand then use voice-to-text software to input the stories into WORD. I use spell-check of course, but sometimes after reading and re-reading and constantly making edits, I miss things ☹I just do the best that I can, write for the love of it, and ask that when readers notice glaring issues, that they just mention it to me so I can fix them. Past that, I hope that the quality of my writing is good enough to balance the fact that I can’t type for beans.
    How did the writing of Just Keep Swimming evolve for you? Plot or Characters first?
    Generally, I come up with the characters first, but it’s really dependent on the story. A lot of times I’m inspired by song lyrics, things that happen in life (personally or on the news) or even a writing prompt. I’m very visual, so I tend to use AI to create my characters. Knowing what they look like helps me flesh them out and the stories write themselves more easily. For Just Keep Swimming, I was literally working off of the idea for the anthology, In Too Deep, so I started thinking about what that means for me. Being that I almost drowned when I was 16, my first what was about just getting in over your head in a pool—literally. But I wanted the story to be something light and fluffy so I based it very loosely off of a story I wrote about 15 years ago. This is a complete revamp that looks nothing like the original, other than the main idea of a computer programming falling for the Dad of two little girls. Everything else is a complete rewrite, including Liam working at the Y as a swim instructor. Until the story begins, Liam believes Gabriel’s straight, and was afraid of getting in too deep over his head with his feelings for him. Gabriel felt the same way about Liam because he has two daughters and is 8 years older than Liam, and wasn’t sure that he’d want a pre-made family. It’s sort of all just came together in a pretty wholesome way despite the last explicit as O.o chapter.
    Do you have a favorite line or scene in Just Keep Swimming?
    I actually really like the epilogue. It’s short, but I feel that it tied the story together well; the girls are playing in the soccer field and Liam bends over to touch his toes to get Gabriel’s attention. When they kiss, Gabriel’s youngest daughter, Harlow, tells him that there are impressionable young eyes in the field. Liam tells her that’s where her eyes should be. It’s just a very family-friendly moment, which is what the entire story was about. I also love when Liam kills the overnight French toast in Gabriel’s kitchen and the girls are as gleeful about it as adorable minions of Satan.
    Do you relate more personally with Liam or Gabriel from the story as a person?
    Honestly, I don’t relate strongly to either character, although all of the characters in my stories have some characteristics of family members, friends, or people that I’ve met or worked with in the past, as well as some of my own personality quirks, especially my sense of gallows humor. But if I had to choose, I’d say I relate more to Liam because I can be very awkward when put on the spot, especially around people I don’t know. Being a klutz was pretty much my superpower for years, and I still have more spazzy moments than is probably cool to admit to.
    Can you share a little of your current or future writing projects with us?
    I always have a million and one ideas bouncing around in my head with characters chatting to me and to each other, so I have a lot of outlines written. There’s at least a good 15 story ideas bouncing around in my notes. I’ve plotted about five of them fully. Some are inspired by old prompts that I found here, so I’m working on some of those short pieces in between the longer ones. It’s easy for me to get overwhelmed because I want to do too many things at once, so I try and balance by not working on more than a handful at a time; that allows me to put down a  story if I hit writer’s block on it, without feeling like a failure. I can just pick up another story and work on it till I’m ready to return to the previous ones. Right now, I’m just trying to focus on the second full-length novel in my Finding Home series, called Hood and Holy Water. I’m trying to post a chapter a week at minimum. (-crossing fingers) If I can get out two per week, that would just be a lovely bonus for my readers, but I’m going to go with a more conservative estimate of one a week. I’m currently working on a piece based off of one of the GA prompts that will be my take on Lady Justice. That one’s interesting because I’d originally planned to do a comedic story set in modern times  with a snarky first person POV about what it means to be Lady Justice, and the hassles it van bring. When I started actually plotting the story out, it took a completely different turn. It’s much more serious and I’m weaving a lot of mythology and actual history from Greece, Egypt, and Rome into it. A lot of the story will be told in flashbacks. It’s technically still set in the modern world, but in Greek mythology, Themis, one of the female Titans, is their version of Lady Justice. So, we’re going way back to the creation of the earth and stars, and the old gods. It will probably still be told from her point of view, and the flashbacks till unpack all of the things that influenced her till now. There will be mentions of Alexander the Great, Aristotle, and Cleopatra, so it’s getting pretty complicated, more so than I originally planned. But I think it’ll be interesting. I also plan on doing a heavy revision of a story written close to seventeen ago. It won’t get done in time for Valentine’s Day (Cupid is involved! LOL) but love stories are good all year round. And of course, I want to work on other stories that I’ve started, but put long-term holds on, including Coloring Outside The Lines (which is fully plotted) and Studs, Spurs and Stephanotis. There’s so much I want to put out into the world, but just not enough time and my fingers just don’t work as fast as my brain. I’ll get there eventually, and am so grateful to the readers who take time to read my offerings. It’s very motivating when I’m tempted to throw in the towel.
  5. Cia

    February Signature Excerpt: Clouded Purity by Cynus

    By Cia,


    Signature Feature
    Monday I featured Clouded Purity by Cynus. This is book 2 in his 5 book series, The Trial. I want to make that really clear, so readers aren't confused. Make sure you read the first story!! Then come back to this one, if you haven't already. But, just to tease you and make you want to...
    Want to read more? Click here
  6. Cia

    February Signature Feature: Clouded Purity by Cynus

    By Cia,


    Signature Feature
    What do you do when you love something or someone so much that you have to make the hardest decisions of all? This story is Book 2 in Cynus' series, The Trial, so I really recommend you read them all in order if you enjoy fantasy work in order to be able to understand this one. But it's worth it! 

    Description: Eight centuries before Salidar thulu-Khant's reign, the world was much different. Technology, not magic, defined the world, though political machinations and civil unrest had pushed the world to the edge of destruction. Two young men, embark on a journey of self-discovery while dealing with the consequences of a broken society. Meanwhile, an ancient force seeks to unleash a Trial of Destruction on the world.
    Length: 99,426
    A Reader Said: This series is one the best fantasy series I have ever read and this second book took us in a lot of interesting directions. It perfectly provided so much clarity on the events in the first book while setting us up for the future. The already complex world Cynus built in Book 1 was filled-in here and now, we are right where the characters are: wondering about the fate of the world and the motives behind each characters actions. Nothing is as simple as it seems and I am excited foe the next part of this journey. ~ Nancer
     
    If you want to spread the word about Cynus's story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!

    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!
  7. Cia

    February CSR Feature: Just Keep Swimming by JJQuinn

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Welcome to the 2nd month of 2025! Hopefully your year has started off well, but if not, you can always escape into a fictional world when you need a break. How about a novella-length tale that didn't quite make it into the recent anthology? 
    Just Keep Swimming
    by @JJQuinn
    Length: 41,320
    Description: Successful, but romantically repressed computer programmer, Liam Bailey would've blown a homeless man for a taste of stale after spending almost a week chasing down his energetic young nephew.  Instead, after his gorgeous neighbor Gabriel Morgan, sexy dad of two--who Liam would've sworn under oath and death by fire ants was straight as an arrow--turns up on his doorstep bearing sugary gifts and a few extra surprises. Suddenly "straight" makes about as much sense as a diagonal and Liam needs to decide if he should try a diagonal life, or just keep swimming so he doesn't end up getting in too deep...
    A Reader Said: 
    @JJ Quinn brings this charming rom-com short series shortly after finishing epic but serious series "Halos and Heroes". Nevertheless, although romantic and joyful, this story doesn't lack in amazing dialogs and deepness of characters which are @JJ Quinn's trademark. 
    Liam, IT programmer and his neighbor Gabriel, the dad of two, think of each other for a long time until Gabriel's daughters convince their father to be brave and invite Liam for a date. What starts as clumsy dinner with broken plates and spilled food...ends with hot sex and beautiful bond between two soulmates. 
    I recommend this little gem to all romantic readers! Enjoy! ~ Cane23
     
     
    Come back on the last Monday of the month, February 24th to check out the Discussion day and share your thoughts! 
  8. Cia

    January CSR Feature Boundaries: An Old West Tale by Headstall

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Did you read this month's CSR by Headstall, Boundaries: An Old West Tale, or it's followup? @Headstall always takes great care to make the setting and events come alive in his historical fiction, and the character's tales pull at your heart, head... or, well...  What did you think of this month's feature? Share your thoughts in comments below, but first, the interview!
    Do you eat your fruits and vegetables?
    Absolutely! Berries and red grapes every day, and whatever looks fresh in the produce section. Love broccoli and Brussel sprouts. Actually, I like anything green.
    What are you wearing (and no fibbing!)?
    Sweatpants and a heavy Carhartt tee, and a hoodie cause it’s cold. Truth!
    If you were writing a story about your life, what would the title be?
    Maybe “The Long and Winding Road” or possibly, “If I Only Knew Then What I Know Now”
    What brought you to GA?
    Honestly, an only partly-acknowledged interest in writing, but I spent a few years just reading and lurking. I finally joined so I could comment on stories.
    Has writing always been a passion for you?
    No, but being creative was. My first passion as a kid was reading, and that stayed with me throughout my life. I used to draw and paint (watercolor, oils, pastels, pen and ink), and was even accepted at a well-respected art college, but any time I ever wrote something, be it a personal letter (yeah, that was a thing once) or a newsletter for our horse club, it was well received. I’ve also done a lot of woodworking and pretty much rebuilt two houses. For decades my passion was showing horses, but that had to come to an end. Eventually, as I neared early retirement, writing stories began to make sense to me, like it might be waiting for me, and here I am.  
    What other passions do you have in your life?
    Well, my last horse passed on October 22/2023, so I guess my only passion left is my children and grandchildren, and my Border Collie. Oh, and my lawns, trees, tomato plants, and hanging baskets in the summer.
    What is the easiest versus hardest part of writing an anthology story?
    Good question. Easiest for me is the idea and the beginning, but it took a lot of discipline to corral and confine my ideas so they fit within a shorter format, at least when I first started writing them. There are a few that ended up as long multi-chapter stories instead of what I originally intended. I highly recommend participating in the Anthologies, though. They teach us a lot… especially about what isn’t necessary in a story.
    You said Boundaries: An Old West Tale spawned a longer story, Bearpaw: An Old West Tale. Do you have a preference for one over the other (and why or why not?)
    “Boundaries” got the fire lit for me to write “Bearpaw” for sure, but they are not exactly connected just so potential readers know. I do prefer the weaving of a longer story, and “Bearpaw” was incredibly rewarding for how it was received. Maybe I prefer longer works because of how I started out, or maybe it is more satisfying for my fertile imagination. I love taking the time to show the layers of characters, something I usually do through dialogue. That slow reveal is fun for me, and I hope seductive for the reader. Don’t get me wrong, though. I’m not big on words for words sake, and I try to keep descriptions from detracting from the story and its pace.
    On the other hand, it’s surprising how much can be fit into a short story, and there is a lot to be said for the economy of them, so I guess there is less of a distance between these formats for me than there used to be. “Boundaries” is almost an in-between because it had four chapters and that gave me a little more leeway. Still, I could have written about twenty.
    What is your favorite line or scene from An Old West Tale?
    Oh, that would have to be the staircase scene (no spoilers), but the bath scene was great fun.
    Can you share anything new about your current or upcoming work with readers?
    I have fourteen chapters written of a rather simple human drama/romance, and it will probably take another eight or ten to finish it. It’s something I haven’t really tackled before, at least not to any depth. Unfortunately, my muse is trying to get me to start another western set just after the American Civil War. It’s pretty much written in my head, so we shall see if I can withstand the pressure.
  10. Cia
    Who doesn't love snuggling under the blankets with someone? Whether it's hot or cold where you are, I think we could all use a little... moment. Check out how Comicality shared these characters enjoying their time during the 2020 Anthology themed "The Storm". 

    Length: 8,264
    Description: Max is currently at home alone during the big snow storm of 2011, Chicago's 'Snowpocalypse'! But his friend, Cedric lives just across the courtyard in the same apartment complex! What will they do to beat the frigid temperatures and the heavy snow drifts locking everybody down? Read and find out!
    A Reader Said: That was really sweet. I enjoyed that. I had more than one experience like that, growing up. Fun times. I think it must be common for boys, (and girls?) growing up. Gay, straight and everything in between. Young people are curious creatures.
    Thanks Com. 
    Mike. ~M1984
    If you want to spread the word about Comicality's story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!

    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!
  11. Cia
    In this first month of 2025, as we look forward to this new year, I thought I'd feature a story that looks back. So who feels like reading in the historical western genres? Headstall is known for those, so I thought I'd pick one of his stories. 
    Boundaries: An Old West Tale
    by @Headstall
     
    Length: 16,640
    Description: A lot can occur in a single day, and this day starts with Virgil Pruitt riding into a sad, struggling Texas town seven years after the end of the Mexican-American War. Sometimes it's not easy to be a good man, one who calls out unfair hate when he sees it, but Virgil doesn't always look for easy. Will he pay the price for being such a man, or will he be rewarded for standing up for young Wyatt Burnham?
    A Reader Said:  Love tales of the Old West; and perhaps one of the best writers of them that I have read in years is @Headstall.  
    The writing and pacing were first rate and the character development was great for such a short story.  Came to really care about the main characters quickly.  And yes, I believe that love can happen at a glance, or at least the beginning of it.
    I could easily see this as a prelude to a much longer story about either the journey to Larkspur or about after they arrive; or hell maybe both.
    Sit a spell and enjoy a truly delightful few chapters that will draw you in fully and captivate you totally. ~centexhairysub
     
    Come back on the last Monday of the month, January 27th to check out the Discussion day and share your thoughts! 
  12. Cia

    December CSR Discussion Day: The Devil is Gay Series by kbois

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    How were your holidays? Did you get lost in the hustle and bustle? Love it? Hate it? Hopefully you were able to get just the right about of holiday cheer, but if you felt the need for a bit of break, I had the perfect bite-sized chunks of *ahem* alternative entertainment in kbois series, The Devil is Gay. Share your thoughts on those stories below, say congrats on kbois promotion to Signature Author if you haven't already, or comment on this interview! 
    Do you eat your fruits and vegetables?
    Yes, but I am picky when it comes to vegetables. No fungus, stringy dirt-flavored celery, or bell peppers shall ever contaminate my tastebuds. I’m not as picky with fruits.
    If you were an animal, what would you be?
    A unicorn, of course!!!
    What’s something personal about you people might be surprised to know?
    I’m fiercely loyal to those few I let into my inner circle. I have a lot of acquaintances, but less than a handful of people I consider true friends.
    What’s one location you’d love to go to research for a story?
    New Zealand. It’s still #1 on my bucket list.
    What brought you to GA?
    I was looking for something different to read and stumbled across the site.
    What’s the first thing you do when you start writing a story?
    Start typing. Haha. All kidding aside, I usually have an idea that plays on repeat in my head. That’s where I start, even if it ends up being a scene that occurs later in the story.
    You often write paranormal stories, but what made you decide on the devil aka Lucifer as a main character?
    I blame @MichaelS36 A few years ago in the Drop in Center, there was a discussion that somehow ended up mentioning the devil. He posted a devil picture and for some reason, it stuck in my brain. The idea came to me when I was walking my dogs. The rest is history.
    Do you have a favorite of the 3 stories in the series?
    Probably the first one. It was written for a June Pride event and keeping the word count to under 1000 wasn’t easy. It was fun to write because Lucifer is one snarky SOB. Lol!
    Do you think you’ll write more in this series, maybe in honor of this promotion to Signature Author?
    Maaaaaaayyyybbbbeeeeeeee.
    Would you like to share something of your current or upcoming works with readers?
    This past year has been full of challenges and obstacles for me. I’ve slowly been working on a story that’s somewhat of a mafia-themed mystery. I’m about eight chapters in and hoping I can pick up the pace after the holidays. I have a bunch of ideas in the brain vault too, so who knows what will come out of that!
  13. Cia

    December Signature Excerpt: Button by Cole Matthews

    By Cia,


    Signature Feature
    It's our last excerpt of the month, so I had to make sure I picked a good one for this month's Feature from Monday: Button by Cole Matthews! I know this is a longer story than the last few months, but it's worth it, right? Plus with the chapters being vignettes, you can take breaks if you need to. I hope you enjoy Button.
    Want to read more? Click here
  14. Cia

    December Signature Feature: Button by Cole Matthews

    By Cia,


    Signature Feature
    Can you believe it's the last month of 2025 already? We're at our last feature and I wanted to focus on a story that I think would showcase what could be considered a gift. What's better than the gift of Button to his dads? Check out this story by Cole Matthews if you never have before! 

    Length: 77,806
    Description: Button is a little boy who was dropped on his father's doorstep. Watch as he and his two dads grow with each passing year.
    A Reader Said: Cole Matthews has written a heartwarming tale of a child growing up. Each chapter has vignettes from a year in the life of Button and his two dads. As you read you will laugh and cry, and feel every emotion in between. And if you don't fall in love with Button, you have no heart. The characters are all well written, with the strengths and flaws of real people. There is enough description to put you in the story's various locales without taking over. The dialogue sounds like real conversations. Growing up is not all sunshine and roses for Button. He has struggles and heart-ache along the way. The story is sweet and yet often thought-provoking. Be sure to follow the "fine print" suggestion and read "1515 Loring Lane" chapter 6 first. It is a prologue telling how Button came to live with his two dads. ~JeffreyL
    If you want to spread the word about Cole Matthew's story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!

    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!
  15. Cia

    December CSR Feature: The Devil is Gay Series by kbois

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    In honor of kbois recent promotion to Signature Author (congratulations again!!) I wanted to feature something that I thought was fun because sometimes we all need a break from when the holidays get hectic and crazy... so why not a short story series like... The Devil is Gay. Seriously, doesn't that just make you go, wait, what?! You can read these all in one go or in a bite-sized chunks when you need them. kbois wrote the last story, Corrupting the Innocent, to celebrate her promotion to Promising Author, so I thought it was especially fitting!
    The Devil is Gay (3 part series)
    by @kbois
    Total Length: 6,429 
    Description: Lucifer and Gabriel have a rather unconventional relationship. These are some snippets into their lives. 
    A reader said:  If you enjoy a funny, well written tale starring the Devil, this is for you. ~Alexmugs (Corrupting the Innocent)
    Come back on the last Monday of the month, December 30th to check out the Discussion day and share your thoughts! 
  16. Cia

    November CSR Discussion Day: Hustle by Talo Segura

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Wow, November already. With the year almost over, I wanted to keep featuring things that kept readers guessing and challenge the idea of the traditional reading genres and stories. What did you think of Hustle? Share your thoughts below, but first, the interview!!
    Chocolate or Vanilla?
    I have to cheat... both!
    What's your favorite room in your home? Do you plot or write there?
    I don't have a favourite room and I write where ever I find myself alone and not being disturbed, often in the lounge, but sometimes in odd places like a waiting room. Well, what else are you going to do in a waiting room? Play on your phone I suppose, but I prefer to read or write.
    What’s something personal about you people might be surprised to know?
    I speak English and French and have dual nationality.
    What brought you to GA?
    Another author.
    What do you think makes up a good story?
    An engaging narrative with good description which evokes a place, an atmosphere. Interesting characters, including supporting roles, plus the dialogue. I also like a plot, a beginning, a middle, and an end!
    Is there any theme or plot you’d never write in a story?
    Well, for all you lovers of the walking dead, werewolves and alpha males, I'm sorry, but that is not a genre that grabs me and I wouldn't attempt to write it.
    What do you think makes Hustle stand out compared to other “similar” drama/adventure stories?
    Does it stand out? If it does perhaps it's because it is the history of two brothers who as children get pushed from pillar to post, which is summed up in the opening of the story: 'Mischief moved them on in life, and moving kept them close. Morgan had Clinton, Clinton Morgan, and for both that was more than most.' So there are two things going on in the book, the plot about how they run away and try to make it back home to the states and the development of their relationship.
    How important was it to make the main characters brothers instead of a single main character?
    Very important. The story is as much about the two of them as it is about what happens. How the story plots out, whilst interesting, might almost be secondary to how they are together, how they relate and interact, and how this changes over time, as they grow up.
    Do you have a favorite scene or moment that creates the greatest impact in Hustle?
    I like this scene in chapter seven where Morgan asks his brother...
    Having recently returned to writing/posting on GA, can you share something of your current writing or upcoming story(ies) with readers?
    I have a large number of started but unfinished projects. It's sometimes difficult to choose between the different stories. Perhaps my next book will be Leo (a working title) it's a high school, college story very focused on the relationships between students and also family.
    I ought not to tease, but I will anyway, it opens like this:
    The last two weeks had been the worst time of his life. His mother, the hospital, Paul, and his best friend Marcus. People had killed themselves over lesser things, that idea never entered his head; but despair, pain, anger, and frustration, they were all there vying for a piece of him.
    The pictures in his scrap book lay spread across the bedroom floor, torn out and scattered randomly where they had been discarded. The sketched images of Paul stared up at him from those sheets. Drawn from desire, love, hope!
    If I manage to complete this, it's currently plotted out, but with only two chapters written, it will be a book which once again explores developing relationships. I guess, I find the inter-actions between people as intriguing as the plot!
    Thank you for your interview questions, they made me think. I hope my replies are up to the job and provide some insight into me as a writer.
  17. Cia

    November Signature Excerpt: Save Tonight by CassieQ

    By Cia,


    Signature Feature
    Monday I featured CassieQ's story, Save Tonight, as this month's Signature Feature. Have you read it yet? It's one of my favorites, definitely an oldie but goodie. Please take the time to check it out, if you haven't yet. And maybe this excerpt will help convince you. 
    Want to read more? Click here
  18. Cia

    November Signature Feature: Save Tonight by CassieQ

    By Cia,


    Signature Feature
    November is a month when we focus on family in the US. Sometimes it's the thing that holds us together, sometimes it's the thing that breaks us... and sometimes it's both. All I can say is bring your tissues when you read Save Tonight, if you haven't already, or you can't pass up another read like I couldn't! 

    Length: 5,911
    Description: 'What do you want?' A wish reluctantly made, urged on by his little girl, brings Gavin something unexpected.
    A Reader Said: Written in 2013 this story has aged like a vintage port.  It is beautifully written and a tough read emotionally.  It deserves to be rediscovered in 2013.
    READ IT!  ~ Gary L
     
    If you want to spread the word about CassieQ's story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!

    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!
  19. Cia

    November CSR Feature: Hustle by Talo Segura

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    It's November, can you believe it? Canada just had their Thanksgiving and this month the US has ours. Do other countries have this holiday, or ones similar to focus on family and giving thanks? Share that below, if you want! In the vein of the focus on family, I wanted to share a story with that same theme, but this is no fluffy and light story, so be warned! Sometimes family is all we can count on to get us through this painful journey life thrusts upon us.
    Hustle
    by @Talo Segura
    Length: 25,531
    Description: Two brothers move through life together, shuffled around from pillar to post. Trouble follows them everywhere and all they really have in life is each other. Clinton plays with his dice and always has a plan, Morgan always does what his older brother tells him.
    They leave their rough childhood behind and get caught up in the escapades of South American drug trafficking. Clinton will do anything to keep them together, but it is Morgan who pays the price. Drugs, prostitution, and encounters with no one they can really trust. There is one goal, somehow to make it back to the States.
    A reader said: I have really enjoyed this whole story. Great plot with plenty of twists and turns, so many I might just read it again to make sure I got it all. Anyway a great read. I could see it making a great tv mini series, it might need some editing, though given what some channels show, after teasing warnings, maybe not! 
    Congratulations on another well crafted piece of authorship. ~RevSimon
    Come back on the last Monday of the month, November 25th to check out the Discussion day and share your thoughts! 
  20. Cia

    October CSR Discussion Day: Turnabout is Fair Fae by Valkyrie

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Did you read this month's feature, a short story with all the thrills and chills for October? Turnabout is Fair Fae by Valkyrie was a fun quick read, so I hope you'll share your comments below after you read my interview with her! Let's share the love (or shudders... you know, whatever works!) 
    Do you eat your fruits and vegetables?
    I eat a lot of veggies, but not much fruit.  I like the flavor of fruit, but not the texture. 
    What are you wearing (and no fibbing!)?
    It’s 6:30 PM and I’m in my kitty cat jammies for the night.  #thuglife
    What’s one location you’d love to go to research for a story?
    Oh, there’s so many!  I took my trip of a lifetime earlier this year and spent two weeks in England. My story for the current anthology, In too Deep, is based on my experiences on that trip.  I’d love to visit Ireland and Scotland on my next venture across the pond.  I think Petra would be an absolutely fascinating place to write about and visit. 
    What’s the best part of being an author?
    When readers connect with my characters.  It really makes my day when people can relate to my characters and appreciate them as much as I do. 
    Is your writing process a daily word count goal or more of a burst of inspiration writing flurry?
    Definitely writing flurries.  Deadlines help too. 
    How many stories have you written? Which is your favorite?
    According to my story profile, it’s 62.  It’s really hard to pick a favorite.  The Hollow Hills is very dear to me, since the characters have been around since I was a freshman in high school.  I had an absolute blast writing A Leg to Stand On.  It was my first attempt at comedy, and I think it produced some really relatable characters. 
    Do you enjoy stories of the Fae variety, and did that inspire this Anthology piece?
    Yes, I do.  I’ve always enjoyed reading fantasy stories and learning about the Fae.  I honestly don’t remember what inspired the story, but that sounds plausible!
    It was interesting that ‘made magic’ versus ‘inherent magic’ featured in Turnabout is Fair Fae. Was that a deliberate choice?
    Yes, that was deliberate.  I wanted a combination of the two, especially since it figured prominently at the end.  I don’t want to say too much and give away any spoilers to anyone who hasn’t read the story yet.
    What do you think happens with changelings? Why do fae want them?
    Good question!  I’ve always imagined the fae wanted them because they were a curiosity.  Something to pique their interest until they get bored of them.  I tend to think of changelings as living a charmed life for a while, then living more of a hellish existence when the charm wears off.  I guess I have a bit of a cynical view in that regard. 
    Can you share something about your current or upcoming story with readers?
    My anthology story should be live or going live soon after this interview is posted.  It’s based on experiences I had at several different stone circle sites in England.  There may or may not be a Christmas collaboration this year with myself, Aditus, and Cole Matthews…    I have a multichapter modern fantasy I’ve been working on for years.  Hopefully one of these days I’ll get a writing flurry and actually finish it.
  21. Cia

    October Signature Excerpt: I.D. by CarlHoliday

    By Cia,


    Signature Feature
    Did you catch Monday's feature of I.D. by CarlHoliday? This short story can really catch you in the feels, in so many different ways. Seriously, it's a gamut of emotions, but if I tell you what they are, I might give away too much, so you'll have to read the story to feel them for yourself. If I haven't tempted you yet, check out this excerpt below. 
    Want to read more? Click here
  22. Cia

    October Signature Feature: ID by CarlHoliday

    By Cia,


    Signature Feature
    When I read this story, it honestly spooked me... so what better month to feature it than October? Do you remember this anthology feature from 2021 written by one of our Signature authors? Check it out!
    I.D.
    by @CarlHoliday
    Length: 3,071
    Description: At the time it seemed a good idea, but how it played out nearly cost Charlie his life. He had the big ranch, but his wife had died and all the kids didn't want anything to do with ranching. So he decided to sell and move into the city. Everything was good great until he decided to take that walk in the park.
    Potluck Theme: Through a Glass Darkly
    A Reader said: A well written and touching tale of an octogenarian who'd moved to new home, and then while out for a walk suddenly realized that he  couldn't remember anything about his life.  Of course, there are extenuating factors involved, but I won't tell you what they are because I don't want to ruin the story for you.  However, it made it even more difficult for him, so what will happen now that he's lost in a big city?   ~Bill W
    If you want to spread the word about CarlHoliday's story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!

    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!
  23. Cia

    October CSR Feature: Turnabout is Fair Fae by Valkyrie

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    It's October which means spooks, ghouls, fae, vampires, werecritters... yep, this month is for all the spookies! If you can handle them, that is. I chose to feature an older story written by our very own admin, @Valkyrie, for the 2017 anthology The Fall Out and Secret Spaces. This short story is a perfect bite-size treat for the season! 
    Turnabout is Fair Fae
    by @Valkyrie
     
    Length: 4,055
    Description: Not all fairies have wings and sprinkle pixie dust.  Briar Toadthistle and Shade Sourthorn are attempting a mission they've failed before.  If they don't succeed, their heads are on the line.  Karma isn't limited to the human realm, though, and a choice made may prove more costly than either of them anticipated.
    A reader said: A very dark tale, but well written and showing the portent of expansion into a complete story. ~Will Hawkins
    Come back on the last Monday of the month, October 28th to check out the Discussion day and share your thoughts! 
  24. Cia

    September CSR Discussion Day: La Tambola by drsawzall

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Did you read the CSR feature this month, La Tambola? This story tells all about how humanity does... and doesn't, manage new beginnings. Before you share your thoughts below, check out my interview with drsawzall. 
    Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point?
    I do make my bed in the morning 75% of the time.
    If you were an animal, what would you be?
    A clone of dabeagle who has to be among the best crafters of written dialogue, he constantly stuns me with what comes out of his head.
    Now if you had asked what kind of inanimate object I would like to be, I would have to go with Geron Kees, for the very same reasons.
    What’s one location you’d love to go to research for a story?
    Machu Pichu hands down.
    What brought you to GA?
    A never-ending search at the time, for another quality gay story site. I’ve found a home here, I am amazed at the response to my work, the encouragement, camaraderie, and the shear number of stories encompassing nearly every possible genre. I love the ability to comment and to have my work commented on, so much I became a proud premium member. This story site stands head and shoulders with the best of them out there.
    If you could give advice to yourself when you first started writing, what would it be?
    Spell and grammar check are critical must haves, and an editor/coach in the fine art of crafting dialogue. It is something I struggle mightily with even tho my friends tell me I have the gift of gab.
    What is one thing you enjoy about writing a story in the scifi genre(s)?
    The ability to create a plausible world reflecting the struggle of life.
    If you had to leave Earth to colonize another planet, would you like to be part of a pastoral planet or a more technological planet colonization team?
    That’s a tough question, I would prefer some sort of mix where both sides keep each other in balance.
    How did you come up with the idea for your native species in La Tombola?
    I read a reprint of Shirly Jackson’s short story called the Lottery circa 1948 or so. So much was packed into that short story that it stuck with me for some time. When the voice in my head became insistent that it had something to share with our fellow readers, I sat down and wrote the first part that afternoon.  
    For some time, I had a vision of a world, for a different story, that featured the Gnos, it was to be set in a post-apocalypse world. Where conflict would arise between the survivors, those from the cities/urban against the rural/woodland areas.  The need for food was to be the crux of the story and the impetus of conflict between the two ‘societies’. Neither side being able to get the upper hand over the other, the city/urban dwellers derogatorily referred to their ‘enemies’ as the ‘Gnos’ as a derivative of oregano, a valuable spice at the time, much in demand in the urban/city areas, as growing food is a struggle.
    I could never do that story justice, and at the time I was writing La Tombola, the Gnos insisted that I include them, they were very tired of being cooped in the further recesses of my cranium.
    What is your favorite scene or line from La Tombola?
    I’m torn between the fifth chapter, I struggled mightily with it as it was so crucial to future events, In the writing, the chapter was touching some difficult areas and it needed the right touch for such a sensitive subject matters. Then when Ned Boone finally being reunited with Peter for good in Chapter 13 and Epilogue. I believe the following was a decent distillation of the arc of the story…
    And then, there was his last meeting with Mithras, the details still vividly clear in his mind. “You have done me great service Ned Boone, not once but several times. I have not forgotten the gift of what was most precious to you, nor the promise that you would be together again, for your unselfish sacrifice and service.”
    Continuing, “Yet you have something that is mine, and as you say, I have something that is yours, what is it you seek in exchange for that cloth you carry always?”
    It was with temerity Ned thought that he had asked, it had to be, the shear boldness…audacity of it all, as he remembered the rest of that engagement with Mithras. One does not bargain with the gods after all, and yet as he ran his fingers through the few graying hairs on a sleeping Peter’s chest, watching it rise and fall with his sleepy breathing, his plea had been listened to and granted.
    Will you share something about your current or upcoming work with readers?
    I’ve been reading, something I love to do, a couple of alternate history books, you know, what would have happened if the Allies lost WW2, that sort of thing. As a history buff it tweaks my interests. I’m thinking of something along the lines of Lincoln losing his reelection bid in 1864. In many ways it is a rich vein to mine.
  25. Cia
    Monday I shared the graphic feature for Aditus's story, One Hundred Forty-Five Candles, and today I'll share an excerpt. This is a very short story, so there's no excuse to miss the rest! Just... if you're going to take a stab at the recipe, maybe use a few less candles or keep an extinguisher on hand?
    Want to read more? Click here
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