Here is the second stack of books for Pride Month! I don't know about you, but sometimes I enjoy a longer book. Here are some of the options that I have to choose from when that happens. All of these books are 400 or more pages long. What's one of your favorite long books?
Showing posts with label pride month. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pride month. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Interview with Michelle Mohrweis, author of THE PROBLEM WITH GRAVITY
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Today's interview is a long one, both me and the author had a lot to say, but I believe that it is worth every second of reading. Today's author is Michelle Mohrweis (they/them)!! I absolutely loved their debut book, The Trouble with Robots!!!! So getting to read their next book and discuss both of those books and Kingdom of Pages is an absolute treasure and really truly helped to make this Pride Month an especially special one to me.
In this interview we talked about how Michelle likes to write their book, where they find the time to, what they want readers to find in their books, and some of the crucial moments in their books. This interview is probably one of my favorites because Michelle has very quickly become one of my favorite authors to read and to talk to! I plan on reading anything they put out in the future. At the very end of the interview you will find links to some local bookstores that you can order their books from as well as links to their social media sites.
So grab a snack and a drink, and I hope that you enjoy the interview!
Friday, June 23, 2023
Pride Month Book Recommendations Part 3
Here is a roundup of the third set of days of queer book recommendations that I have! This post covers days 17 through 23. These are, mostly, books or authors that I've read and loved! The Goodreads page for the book is included and purchase links are attached to the covers if you want to buy the book yourself.
Day 17
Title: Love & Other Disasters
Author: Anita Kelly
Publication Date: April 26, 2022
Summary: Recently divorced and on the verge of bankruptcy, Dahlia Woodson is ready to reinvent herself on the popular reality competition show Chef’s Special. Too bad the first memorable move she makes is falling flat on her face, sending fish tacos flying—not quite the fresh start she was hoping for. Still, she's focused on winning, until she meets someone she might want a future with more than she needs the prize money.
After announcing their pronouns on national television, London Parker has enough on their mind without worrying about the klutzy competitor stationed in front of them. They’re there to prove the trolls—including a fellow contestant and their dad—wrong, and falling in love was never part of the plan.
As London and Dahlia get closer, reality starts to fall away. Goodbye, guilt about divorce, anxiety about uncertain futures, and stress from transphobia. Hello, hilarious shenanigans on set, wedding crashing, and spontaneous dips into the Pacific. But as the finale draws near, Dahlia and London’s steamy relationship starts to feel the heat both in and outside the kitchen—and they must figure out if they have the right ingredients for a happily ever after.
Author: Anita Kelly
Publication Date: April 26, 2022
Summary: Recently divorced and on the verge of bankruptcy, Dahlia Woodson is ready to reinvent herself on the popular reality competition show Chef’s Special. Too bad the first memorable move she makes is falling flat on her face, sending fish tacos flying—not quite the fresh start she was hoping for. Still, she's focused on winning, until she meets someone she might want a future with more than she needs the prize money.
After announcing their pronouns on national television, London Parker has enough on their mind without worrying about the klutzy competitor stationed in front of them. They’re there to prove the trolls—including a fellow contestant and their dad—wrong, and falling in love was never part of the plan.
As London and Dahlia get closer, reality starts to fall away. Goodbye, guilt about divorce, anxiety about uncertain futures, and stress from transphobia. Hello, hilarious shenanigans on set, wedding crashing, and spontaneous dips into the Pacific. But as the finale draws near, Dahlia and London’s steamy relationship starts to feel the heat both in and outside the kitchen—and they must figure out if they have the right ingredients for a happily ever after.
Day 18
Title: Great Bones
Author: Lynn Ames
Publication Date: March 27, 2018
Summary: Rachel Wallach has a great life—on paper. Millions of people fall in love with her words every day. Her greeting card sentiments are the stuff of legend in the industry. And yet ... and yet she couldn’t find the right girl if you stuffed her into a Subaru full of lesbians.
Her overbearing mother and obnoxiously perfect siblings, with whom she shares Shabbat dinner every Friday, only want to know when she's going to get a "real" job and a life. Then her elderly neighbor suffers a catastrophic health crisis, leaving canine-phobic Rachel holding the leash.
Julia Spielman's grandmother, Ida, a matchmaker descended from a long line of matchmakers, has just moved into the Shady Acres Assisted Living Community where she happily renews her friendship with Rachel's Grandma Goldie. When Goldie learns that Julia runs a successful online dating service, it seems too good to be true.
So, let’s see. We have Rachel's deaf-as-a-post grandmother, her grandmother’s clever, scheming match-making friend, and a mutt named Freud, all hell-bent on "helping" Rachel with her love life—what could possibly go wrong?
Author: Lynn Ames
Publication Date: March 27, 2018
Summary: Rachel Wallach has a great life—on paper. Millions of people fall in love with her words every day. Her greeting card sentiments are the stuff of legend in the industry. And yet ... and yet she couldn’t find the right girl if you stuffed her into a Subaru full of lesbians.
Her overbearing mother and obnoxiously perfect siblings, with whom she shares Shabbat dinner every Friday, only want to know when she's going to get a "real" job and a life. Then her elderly neighbor suffers a catastrophic health crisis, leaving canine-phobic Rachel holding the leash.
Julia Spielman's grandmother, Ida, a matchmaker descended from a long line of matchmakers, has just moved into the Shady Acres Assisted Living Community where she happily renews her friendship with Rachel's Grandma Goldie. When Goldie learns that Julia runs a successful online dating service, it seems too good to be true.
So, let’s see. We have Rachel's deaf-as-a-post grandmother, her grandmother’s clever, scheming match-making friend, and a mutt named Freud, all hell-bent on "helping" Rachel with her love life—what could possibly go wrong?
Day 19
Title: The Dawnhounds
Author: Sascha Stronach
Publication Date: June 14, 2022
Summary: The port city of Hainak is alive: its buildings, its fashion, even its weapons. But, after a devastating war and a sweeping biotech revolution, all its inhabitants want is peace, no one more so than Yat Jyn-Hok a reformed-thief-turned-cop who patrols the streets at night.
Yat has recently been demoted on the force due to “lifestyle choices” after being caught at a gay club. She’s barely holding it together, haunted by memories of a lover who vanished and voices that float in and out of her head like radio signals. When she stumbles across a dead body on her patrol, two fellow officers gruesomely murder her and dump her into the harbor. Unfortunately for them, she wakes up.
Resurrected by an ancient power, she finds herself with the new ability to manipulate life force. Quickly falling in with the pirate crew who has found her, she must race against time to stop a plague from being unleashed by the evil that has taken root in Hainak.
Author: Sascha Stronach
Publication Date: June 14, 2022
Summary: The port city of Hainak is alive: its buildings, its fashion, even its weapons. But, after a devastating war and a sweeping biotech revolution, all its inhabitants want is peace, no one more so than Yat Jyn-Hok a reformed-thief-turned-cop who patrols the streets at night.
Yat has recently been demoted on the force due to “lifestyle choices” after being caught at a gay club. She’s barely holding it together, haunted by memories of a lover who vanished and voices that float in and out of her head like radio signals. When she stumbles across a dead body on her patrol, two fellow officers gruesomely murder her and dump her into the harbor. Unfortunately for them, she wakes up.
Resurrected by an ancient power, she finds herself with the new ability to manipulate life force. Quickly falling in with the pirate crew who has found her, she must race against time to stop a plague from being unleashed by the evil that has taken root in Hainak.
Day 20
Title: Outsiders
Author: Lynn Ames, Georgia Beers, J.D. Glass, Susan X Meagher, Susan Smith
Publication Date: November 10, 2009
Summary: Brisk Press presents Lynn Ames, Georgia Beers, JD Glass, Susan X. Meagher and Susan Smith, all together under the same cover with the aim to satisfy your every literary taste. This incredible combination offers something for everyone — a smorgasbord of fiction unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else.
A Native American raised on the Reservation ventures outside the comfort and familiarity of her own world to help a lost soul embrace the gifts that set her apart.
A reluctantly wealthy woman uses all of her resources anonymously to help those who cannot help themselves.
Three individuals, three aspects of the self, combine to create balance and harmony at last for a popular trio of characters.
Two nomadic women from very different walks of life discover common ground — and a lot more — during a blackout in New York City.
A traditional, old school butch must confront her community and her own belief system when she falls for a much younger transman.
Five authors — five novellas. Outsiders — one remarkable book.
Author: Lynn Ames, Georgia Beers, J.D. Glass, Susan X Meagher, Susan Smith
Publication Date: November 10, 2009
Summary: Brisk Press presents Lynn Ames, Georgia Beers, JD Glass, Susan X. Meagher and Susan Smith, all together under the same cover with the aim to satisfy your every literary taste. This incredible combination offers something for everyone — a smorgasbord of fiction unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else.
A Native American raised on the Reservation ventures outside the comfort and familiarity of her own world to help a lost soul embrace the gifts that set her apart.
A reluctantly wealthy woman uses all of her resources anonymously to help those who cannot help themselves.
Three individuals, three aspects of the self, combine to create balance and harmony at last for a popular trio of characters.
Two nomadic women from very different walks of life discover common ground — and a lot more — during a blackout in New York City.
A traditional, old school butch must confront her community and her own belief system when she falls for a much younger transman.
Five authors — five novellas. Outsiders — one remarkable book.
Day 21
Title: Pack of Her Own
Author: Elena Abbott
Publication Date: March 14, 2023
Summary: Natalie Donovan jumps at a friend’s offer to stay in the family cabin for a month—she desperately needs the chance to get away from, and get over, her messy breakup. She doesn’t count on the owner of the local diner making her heart pound and her body desperate to be touched.
Wren Carne is a lone wolf. As an Alpha shifter, she has no pack and maintains her territory without causing drama, just the way she likes it. When she checks on the girl staying in a local cabin, she’s not expecting her wolf to identify the human as her One True Mate.
As fallout from their pasts encroaches upon the sleepy town of Terabend, Wren must decide if she wants a pack of her own, while Natalie worries that her secret—she’s transgender—might be too much for Wren.
Author: Elena Abbott
Publication Date: March 14, 2023
Summary: Natalie Donovan jumps at a friend’s offer to stay in the family cabin for a month—she desperately needs the chance to get away from, and get over, her messy breakup. She doesn’t count on the owner of the local diner making her heart pound and her body desperate to be touched.
Wren Carne is a lone wolf. As an Alpha shifter, she has no pack and maintains her territory without causing drama, just the way she likes it. When she checks on the girl staying in a local cabin, she’s not expecting her wolf to identify the human as her One True Mate.
As fallout from their pasts encroaches upon the sleepy town of Terabend, Wren must decide if she wants a pack of her own, while Natalie worries that her secret—she’s transgender—might be too much for Wren.
Day 22
Title: Love Letters for Joy
Author: Melissa See
Publication Date: June 6, 2023
Summary: Less than a year away from graduation, seventeen-year-old Joy is too busy overachieving to be worried about relationships. She’s determined to be Caldwell Prep’s first disabled valedictorian. And she only has one person to beat, her academic rival Nathaniel.
But it’s senior year and everyone seems to be obsessed with pairing up. One of her best friends may be developing feelings for her and the other uses Caldwell’s anonymous love-letter writer to snag the girl of her dreams. Joy starts to wonder if she has missed out on a quintessential high school experience. She is asexual, but that’s no reason she can’t experience first love, right?
She writes to Caldwell Cupid to help her sort out these new feelings and, over time, finds herself falling for the mysterious voice behind the letters. But falling in love might mean risking what she wants most, especially when the letter-writer turns out to be the last person she would ever expect.
Author: Melissa See
Publication Date: June 6, 2023
Summary: Less than a year away from graduation, seventeen-year-old Joy is too busy overachieving to be worried about relationships. She’s determined to be Caldwell Prep’s first disabled valedictorian. And she only has one person to beat, her academic rival Nathaniel.
But it’s senior year and everyone seems to be obsessed with pairing up. One of her best friends may be developing feelings for her and the other uses Caldwell’s anonymous love-letter writer to snag the girl of her dreams. Joy starts to wonder if she has missed out on a quintessential high school experience. She is asexual, but that’s no reason she can’t experience first love, right?
She writes to Caldwell Cupid to help her sort out these new feelings and, over time, finds herself falling for the mysterious voice behind the letters. But falling in love might mean risking what she wants most, especially when the letter-writer turns out to be the last person she would ever expect.
Day 23
Title: Of Iron and Gold
Author: Lexa Luthor
Publication Date: July 23, 2020
Summary: Princess Kinsey has been given four Alpha slaves, and she must choose one to impregnate her.
Aubrey, a She-Alpha, was sold into slavery at an early age due to her misunderstood "degenerate" nature. Trapped in the Tharnstone Castle, Aubrey has a chance to win her freedom, if she can show her Alpha's worthiness and be chosen to impregnate the princess. But when she learns the Alpha will be forbidden to see the child, she considers the real cost of freedom.
Kinsey will one day be the Omega queen of her father's kingdom, but first she must provide an heir for the House of Wymarc. All she must do is pick an Alpha, despite her aversion towards them. But she soon discovers there's more to some Alphas, than the volatile, dull beasts she's used to. Now, the choice isn't so simple.
Author: Lexa Luthor
Publication Date: July 23, 2020
Summary: Princess Kinsey has been given four Alpha slaves, and she must choose one to impregnate her.
Aubrey, a She-Alpha, was sold into slavery at an early age due to her misunderstood "degenerate" nature. Trapped in the Tharnstone Castle, Aubrey has a chance to win her freedom, if she can show her Alpha's worthiness and be chosen to impregnate the princess. But when she learns the Alpha will be forbidden to see the child, she considers the real cost of freedom.
Kinsey will one day be the Omega queen of her father's kingdom, but first she must provide an heir for the House of Wymarc. All she must do is pick an Alpha, despite her aversion towards them. But she soon discovers there's more to some Alphas, than the volatile, dull beasts she's used to. Now, the choice isn't so simple.
Disclaimer: I am a bookshop.org affiliate and may earn a commision on books bought using the link on my page.
Thursday, June 22, 2023
Interview with Page Powars, author of upcoming debut THE BORROW A BOYFRIEND CLUB
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Today's interview is with Page Powars (he/him) about his upcoming debut book, The Borrow a Boyfriend Club. This book sounds absolutely fantastic so I was glad to be able to pick his brain about the book a bit! This was an amazing interview and I am so glad that we were able to discuss this book.
We talked a bit about what it's been like being a debut author, what drives him to write, and what he would tell his main characters if he could talk to them.
Wednesday, June 21, 2023
Pride Month Book Recommendations Part 2
Here is a roundup of the second set of days of queer book recommendations that I have! This post covers days 10 through 16. These are, mostly, books or authors that I've read and loved! The Goodreads page for the book is included and purchase links are attached to the covers if you want to buy the book yourself.
Day 10
Title: Can't Take That Away
Author: Steven Salvatore
Publication Date: March 9, 2021
Summary: Carey Parker dreams of being a diva, and bringing the house down with song. But despite their talent, emotional scars from an incident with a homophobic classmate and their grandmother's spiraling dementia make it harder and harder for Carey to find their voice.
Then Carey meets Cris, a singer/guitarist who makes Carey feel seen for the first time in their life. With the rush of a promising new romantic relationship, Carey finds the confidence to audition for the role of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, in the school musical, setting off a chain reaction of prejudice by Carey's tormentor and others in the school. It's up to Carey, Cris, and their friends to defend their rights--and they refuse to be silenced.
Told in alternating chapters with identifying pronouns, debut author Steven Salvatore's Can't Take That Away is both a romance, and an affirmation of self-identity.
Author: Steven Salvatore
Publication Date: March 9, 2021
Summary: Carey Parker dreams of being a diva, and bringing the house down with song. But despite their talent, emotional scars from an incident with a homophobic classmate and their grandmother's spiraling dementia make it harder and harder for Carey to find their voice.
Then Carey meets Cris, a singer/guitarist who makes Carey feel seen for the first time in their life. With the rush of a promising new romantic relationship, Carey finds the confidence to audition for the role of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, in the school musical, setting off a chain reaction of prejudice by Carey's tormentor and others in the school. It's up to Carey, Cris, and their friends to defend their rights--and they refuse to be silenced.
Told in alternating chapters with identifying pronouns, debut author Steven Salvatore's Can't Take That Away is both a romance, and an affirmation of self-identity.
Day 11
Title: Bianca Torre is Afraid of Everything
Author: Justine Pucella Winans
Publication Date: April 11, 2023
Summary: Sixteen-year-old Bianca Torre is an avid birder undergoing a gender identity crisis and grappling with an ever-growing list of fears. Some, like Fear #6: Initiating Conversation, keep them constrained, forcing them to watch birds from the telescope in their bedroom. And, occasionally, their neighbors. When their gaze wanders from the birds to one particular window across the street, Bianca witnesses a creepy plague-masked murderer take their neighbor’s life. Worse, the death is ruled a suicide, forcing Bianca to make a choice—succumb to their long list of fears (including #3: Murder and #55: Breaking into a Dead Guy’s Apartment) or investigate what happened.
Bianca enlists the help of their friend Anderson Coleman, but the two have more knowledge of anime than true crime. As Bianca and Anderson dig deeper into the murder with a little help from Bianca’s crush and fellow birding aficionado, Elaine Yee (#13: Beautiful People, #11: Parents Discovering They’re A Raging Lesbian), the trio uncovers a conspiracy much larger—and weirder—than imagined. But when the killer catches wind of the investigation, Bianca’s #1 fear of public speaking doesn’t sound so bad compared to the threat of being silenced for good.
In this absurdist, bizarrely comical YA thriller that is at turns a deceptively deep exploration of anxiety and identity, perhaps the real murder investigation is the friends we make along the way.
Author: Justine Pucella Winans
Publication Date: April 11, 2023
Summary: Sixteen-year-old Bianca Torre is an avid birder undergoing a gender identity crisis and grappling with an ever-growing list of fears. Some, like Fear #6: Initiating Conversation, keep them constrained, forcing them to watch birds from the telescope in their bedroom. And, occasionally, their neighbors. When their gaze wanders from the birds to one particular window across the street, Bianca witnesses a creepy plague-masked murderer take their neighbor’s life. Worse, the death is ruled a suicide, forcing Bianca to make a choice—succumb to their long list of fears (including #3: Murder and #55: Breaking into a Dead Guy’s Apartment) or investigate what happened.
Bianca enlists the help of their friend Anderson Coleman, but the two have more knowledge of anime than true crime. As Bianca and Anderson dig deeper into the murder with a little help from Bianca’s crush and fellow birding aficionado, Elaine Yee (#13: Beautiful People, #11: Parents Discovering They’re A Raging Lesbian), the trio uncovers a conspiracy much larger—and weirder—than imagined. But when the killer catches wind of the investigation, Bianca’s #1 fear of public speaking doesn’t sound so bad compared to the threat of being silenced for good.
In this absurdist, bizarrely comical YA thriller that is at turns a deceptively deep exploration of anxiety and identity, perhaps the real murder investigation is the friends we make along the way.
Day 12
Title: Grandad's Pride
Author: Harry Woodgate
Publication Date: April 25, 2023
Summary: Grandad and Milly are back for another adventure, this time honoring the past and celebrating the future with a pride parade. This heartwarming tale continues to wonderful journey that began with the Stonewall Honoree, British Book Award winner, and Waterstones Best Illustrated Book, Grandad's Camper.
Grandad and Milly are back for another adventure, this time honoring the past and celebrating the future with a pride parade. This heartwarming tale continues to wonderful journey that began with the Stonewall Honoree, British Book Award winner, and Waterstones Best Illustrated Book, Grandad's Camper.
Author: Harry Woodgate
Publication Date: April 25, 2023
Summary: Grandad and Milly are back for another adventure, this time honoring the past and celebrating the future with a pride parade. This heartwarming tale continues to wonderful journey that began with the Stonewall Honoree, British Book Award winner, and Waterstones Best Illustrated Book, Grandad's Camper.
Grandad and Milly are back for another adventure, this time honoring the past and celebrating the future with a pride parade. This heartwarming tale continues to wonderful journey that began with the Stonewall Honoree, British Book Award winner, and Waterstones Best Illustrated Book, Grandad's Camper.
Day 13
Title: Ellen Outside the Lines
Author: A.J. Sass
Publication Date: March 22, 2022
Summary: Thirteen-year-old Ellen Katz feels most comfortable when her life is well planned out and people fit neatly into her predefined categories. She attends temple with Abba and Mom every Friday and Saturday. Ellen only gets crushes on girls, never boys, and she knows she can always rely on her best-and-only friend, Laurel, to help navigate social situations at their private Georgia middle school.
Laurel has always made Ellen feel like being autistic is no big deal. But lately, Laurel has started making more friends, and cancelling more weekend plans with Ellen than she keeps. A school trip to Barcelona seems like the perfect place for Ellen to get their friendship back on track. Except it doesn't.
Toss in a new nonbinary classmate whose identity has Ellen questioning her very binary way of seeing the world, homesickness, a scavenger hunt-style team project that takes the students through Barcelona to learn about Spanish culture and this trip is anything but what Ellen planned.
Making new friends and letting go of old ones is never easy, but Ellen might just find a comfortable new place for herself if she can learn to embrace the fact that life doesn't always stick to a planned itinerary.
Author: A.J. Sass
Publication Date: March 22, 2022
Summary: Thirteen-year-old Ellen Katz feels most comfortable when her life is well planned out and people fit neatly into her predefined categories. She attends temple with Abba and Mom every Friday and Saturday. Ellen only gets crushes on girls, never boys, and she knows she can always rely on her best-and-only friend, Laurel, to help navigate social situations at their private Georgia middle school.
Laurel has always made Ellen feel like being autistic is no big deal. But lately, Laurel has started making more friends, and cancelling more weekend plans with Ellen than she keeps. A school trip to Barcelona seems like the perfect place for Ellen to get their friendship back on track. Except it doesn't.
Toss in a new nonbinary classmate whose identity has Ellen questioning her very binary way of seeing the world, homesickness, a scavenger hunt-style team project that takes the students through Barcelona to learn about Spanish culture and this trip is anything but what Ellen planned.
Making new friends and letting go of old ones is never easy, but Ellen might just find a comfortable new place for herself if she can learn to embrace the fact that life doesn't always stick to a planned itinerary.
Day 14
Title: Chef's Choice
Author: TJ Alexander
Publication Date: May 30, 2023
Summary: When Luna O’Shea is unceremoniously fired from her frustrating office job, she tries to count her blessings: she’s a proud trans woman who has plenty of friends, a wonderful roommate, and a good life in New York City. But blessings don’t pay the bills.
Enter Jean-Pierre, a laissez-faire trans man and the heir to a huge culinary empire—which he’ll only inherit if he can jump through all the hoops his celebrity chef grandfather has placed in his path. First hoop: he needs a girlfriend, a role that Luna is happy to play…for the right price. She’s got rent to pay, after all! Second hoop: they both need to learn how to cook a series of elaborate, world-renowned family recipes to prove that Jean-Pierre is a worthy heir. Admittedly, Luna doesn’t even know how to crack an egg, but she’s not going to let that—or any pesky feelings for Jean-Pierre—stop her.
Another swoon-worthy and heartwarming queer love story from a charming new voice in romance.
Author: TJ Alexander
Publication Date: May 30, 2023
Summary: When Luna O’Shea is unceremoniously fired from her frustrating office job, she tries to count her blessings: she’s a proud trans woman who has plenty of friends, a wonderful roommate, and a good life in New York City. But blessings don’t pay the bills.
Enter Jean-Pierre, a laissez-faire trans man and the heir to a huge culinary empire—which he’ll only inherit if he can jump through all the hoops his celebrity chef grandfather has placed in his path. First hoop: he needs a girlfriend, a role that Luna is happy to play…for the right price. She’s got rent to pay, after all! Second hoop: they both need to learn how to cook a series of elaborate, world-renowned family recipes to prove that Jean-Pierre is a worthy heir. Admittedly, Luna doesn’t even know how to crack an egg, but she’s not going to let that—or any pesky feelings for Jean-Pierre—stop her.
Another swoon-worthy and heartwarming queer love story from a charming new voice in romance.
Day 15
Title: The Heartbreak Bakery
Author: A.R. Capetta
Publication Date: October 12, 2021
Summary: Syd (no pronouns, please) has always dealt with big, hard-to-talk-about things by baking. Being dumped is no different, except now Syd is baking at the Proud Muffin, a queer bakery and community space in Austin. And everyone who eats Syd’s breakup brownies . . . breaks up. Even Vin and Alec, who own the Proud Muffin. And their breakup might take the bakery down with it. Being dumped is one thing; causing ripples of queer heartbreak through the community is another. But the cute bike delivery person, Harley (he or they, check the pronoun pin, it’s probably on the messenger bag), believes Syd about the magic baking. And Harley believes Syd’s magical baking can fix things, too—one recipe at a time.
Author: A.R. Capetta
Publication Date: October 12, 2021
Summary: Syd (no pronouns, please) has always dealt with big, hard-to-talk-about things by baking. Being dumped is no different, except now Syd is baking at the Proud Muffin, a queer bakery and community space in Austin. And everyone who eats Syd’s breakup brownies . . . breaks up. Even Vin and Alec, who own the Proud Muffin. And their breakup might take the bakery down with it. Being dumped is one thing; causing ripples of queer heartbreak through the community is another. But the cute bike delivery person, Harley (he or they, check the pronoun pin, it’s probably on the messenger bag), believes Syd about the magic baking. And Harley believes Syd’s magical baking can fix things, too—one recipe at a time.
Day 16
Title: The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Author: Deya Muniz
Publication Date: May 9, 2023
Summary: Lady Camembert wants to live life on her own terms, without marriage. Well, without marrying a man, that is. But the law of the land is that women cannot inherit. So when her father passes away, she does the only thing she can: She disguises herself as a man and moves to the capital city of the Kingdom of Fromage to start over as Count Camembert.
But it’s hard to keep a low profile when the beautiful Princess Brie, with her fierce activism and great sense of fashion, catches her attention. Camembert can’t resist getting to know the princess, but as the two grow closer, will she able to keep her secret?
A romantic comedy about mistaken identity, true love, and lots of grilled cheese.
Author: Deya Muniz
Publication Date: May 9, 2023
Summary: Lady Camembert wants to live life on her own terms, without marriage. Well, without marrying a man, that is. But the law of the land is that women cannot inherit. So when her father passes away, she does the only thing she can: She disguises herself as a man and moves to the capital city of the Kingdom of Fromage to start over as Count Camembert.
But it’s hard to keep a low profile when the beautiful Princess Brie, with her fierce activism and great sense of fashion, catches her attention. Camembert can’t resist getting to know the princess, but as the two grow closer, will she able to keep her secret?
A romantic comedy about mistaken identity, true love, and lots of grilled cheese.
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Disclaimer: I am a bookshop.org affiliate and may earn a commision on books bought using the link on my page.
Tuesday, June 20, 2023
Pride Month: Queer Books that Feature Food
Here is a list of 15 queer books that feature food in a main capacity, somehow. I've not read all of these but I have read most of them. There are links to purchase the books connected to the covers, just click and you'll head over there.
Chef's Kiss
Author: TJ Alexander
Publication Date: May 3, 2022
Summary: Simone Larkspur is a perfectionist pastry expert with a dream job at The Discerning Chef, a venerable cookbook publisher in New York City. All she wants to do is create the perfect loaf of sourdough and develop recipes, but when The Discerning Chef decides to bring their brand into the 21st century by pivoting to video, Simone is thrust into the spotlight and finds herself failing at something for the first time in her life.
To make matters worse, Simone has to deal with Ray Lyton, the new test kitchen manager, whose obnoxious cheer and outgoing personality are like oil to Simone’s water. When Ray accidentally becomes a viral YouTube sensation with a series of homebrewing videos, their eccentric editor in chief forces Simone to work alongside the chipper upstart or else risk her beloved job. But the more they work together, the more Simone realizes her heart may be softening like butter for Ray.
Things get even more complicated when Ray comes out at work as nonbinary to mixed reactions—and Simone must choose between the career she fought so hard for and the person who just might take the cake (and her heart).
Publication Date: May 3, 2022
Summary: Simone Larkspur is a perfectionist pastry expert with a dream job at The Discerning Chef, a venerable cookbook publisher in New York City. All she wants to do is create the perfect loaf of sourdough and develop recipes, but when The Discerning Chef decides to bring their brand into the 21st century by pivoting to video, Simone is thrust into the spotlight and finds herself failing at something for the first time in her life.
To make matters worse, Simone has to deal with Ray Lyton, the new test kitchen manager, whose obnoxious cheer and outgoing personality are like oil to Simone’s water. When Ray accidentally becomes a viral YouTube sensation with a series of homebrewing videos, their eccentric editor in chief forces Simone to work alongside the chipper upstart or else risk her beloved job. But the more they work together, the more Simone realizes her heart may be softening like butter for Ray.
Things get even more complicated when Ray comes out at work as nonbinary to mixed reactions—and Simone must choose between the career she fought so hard for and the person who just might take the cake (and her heart).
Chef's Choice
Author: TJ Alexander
Publication Date: May 30, 2023
Summary: When Luna O’Shea is unceremoniously fired from her frustrating office job, she tries to count her blessings: she’s a proud trans woman who has plenty of friends, a wonderful roommate, and a good life in New York City. But blessings don’t pay the bills.
Enter Jean-Pierre, a laissez-faire trans man and the heir to a huge culinary empire—which he’ll only inherit if he can jump through all the hoops his celebrity chef grandfather has placed in his path. First hoop: he needs a girlfriend, a role that Luna is happy to play…for the right price. She’s got rent to pay, after all! Second hoop: they both need to learn how to cook a series of elaborate, world-renowned family recipes to prove that Jean-Pierre is a worthy heir. Admittedly, Luna doesn’t even know how to crack an egg, but she’s not going to let that—or any pesky feelings for Jean-Pierre—stop her.
Publication Date: May 30, 2023
Summary: When Luna O’Shea is unceremoniously fired from her frustrating office job, she tries to count her blessings: she’s a proud trans woman who has plenty of friends, a wonderful roommate, and a good life in New York City. But blessings don’t pay the bills.
Enter Jean-Pierre, a laissez-faire trans man and the heir to a huge culinary empire—which he’ll only inherit if he can jump through all the hoops his celebrity chef grandfather has placed in his path. First hoop: he needs a girlfriend, a role that Luna is happy to play…for the right price. She’s got rent to pay, after all! Second hoop: they both need to learn how to cook a series of elaborate, world-renowned family recipes to prove that Jean-Pierre is a worthy heir. Admittedly, Luna doesn’t even know how to crack an egg, but she’s not going to let that—or any pesky feelings for Jean-Pierre—stop her.
Chef's Kiss
Author: Jarrett Melendez
Publication Date: April 12, 2022
Summary: Now that college is over, English graduate Ben Cook is on the job hunt looking for something…anything…related to his passion for reading and writing. But interview after interview, hiring committee after hiring committee, Ben soon learns getting the dream job won’t be as easy as he thought. Proofreading? Journalism? Copywriting? Not enough experience. It turns out he doesn’t even have enough experience to be a garbage collector! But when Ben stumbles upon a “Now Hiring—No Experience Necessary” sign outside a restaurant, he jumps at the chance to land his first job. Plus, he can keep looking for a writing job in the meantime. He’s actually not so bad in the kitchen, but he will have to pass a series of cooking tests to prove he’s got the culinary skills to stay on full-time. But it’s only temporary…right?
When Ben begins developing a crush on Liam, one of the other super dreamy chefs at the restaurant, and when he starts ditching his old college friends and his old writing job plans, his career path starts to become much less clear.
Publication Date: April 12, 2022
Summary: Now that college is over, English graduate Ben Cook is on the job hunt looking for something…anything…related to his passion for reading and writing. But interview after interview, hiring committee after hiring committee, Ben soon learns getting the dream job won’t be as easy as he thought. Proofreading? Journalism? Copywriting? Not enough experience. It turns out he doesn’t even have enough experience to be a garbage collector! But when Ben stumbles upon a “Now Hiring—No Experience Necessary” sign outside a restaurant, he jumps at the chance to land his first job. Plus, he can keep looking for a writing job in the meantime. He’s actually not so bad in the kitchen, but he will have to pass a series of cooking tests to prove he’s got the culinary skills to stay on full-time. But it’s only temporary…right?
When Ben begins developing a crush on Liam, one of the other super dreamy chefs at the restaurant, and when he starts ditching his old college friends and his old writing job plans, his career path starts to become much less clear.
Chef's Kiss
Author: Stephanie Shea
Publication Date: July 2, 2021
Summary: Valentina Rosas has always known what she wants. Mostly. Sort of. At least, she does now. And what she wants is the coveted staging role at Gia, San Francisco. With four years at the top of her class in culinary school and enough tenacity to fuel the entire Mission, no one doubts she is about to land the job of her dreams—including the three-person cheer squad made up of her best friend and adorably overbearing parents.
Renowned chef Jenn Coleman is not a people person. Her rise to the top of the culinary industry stems from a cultivated blend of top-tier schooling—from her nonna—and bouts of carefully managed misanthropy. Owning and operating two Michelin starred restaurants doesn’t leave time for much else anyway. Just ask her ex.
When the new stage at her restaurant trips into her with all the grace of a baby giraffe, it’s a sure recipe for disaster. But for all of Jenn’s reserve, Valentina has twice the allure, and the chemistry between them is just… chef’s kiss.
If only Jenn wasn’t Valentina’s boss with nearly ten years between them.
Publication Date: July 2, 2021
Summary: Valentina Rosas has always known what she wants. Mostly. Sort of. At least, she does now. And what she wants is the coveted staging role at Gia, San Francisco. With four years at the top of her class in culinary school and enough tenacity to fuel the entire Mission, no one doubts she is about to land the job of her dreams—including the three-person cheer squad made up of her best friend and adorably overbearing parents.
Renowned chef Jenn Coleman is not a people person. Her rise to the top of the culinary industry stems from a cultivated blend of top-tier schooling—from her nonna—and bouts of carefully managed misanthropy. Owning and operating two Michelin starred restaurants doesn’t leave time for much else anyway. Just ask her ex.
When the new stage at her restaurant trips into her with all the grace of a baby giraffe, it’s a sure recipe for disaster. But for all of Jenn’s reserve, Valentina has twice the allure, and the chemistry between them is just… chef’s kiss.
If only Jenn wasn’t Valentina’s boss with nearly ten years between them.
Love & Other Disasters
Author: Anita Kelly
Publication Date: January 18, 2022
Summary: Recently divorced and on the verge of bankruptcy, Dahlia Woodson is ready to reinvent herself on the popular reality competition show Chef’s Special. Too bad the first memorable move she makes is falling flat on her face, sending fish tacos flying—not quite the fresh start she was hoping for. Still, she's focused on winning, until she meets someone she might want a future with more than she needs the prize money.
After announcing their pronouns on national television, London Parker has enough on their mind without worrying about the klutzy competitor stationed in front of them. They’re there to prove the trolls—including a fellow contestant and their dad—wrong, and falling in love was never part of the plan.
As London and Dahlia get closer, reality starts to fall away. Goodbye, guilt about divorce, anxiety about uncertain futures, and stress from transphobia. Hello, hilarious shenanigans on set, wedding crashing, and spontaneous dips into the Pacific. But as the finale draws near, Dahlia and London’s steamy relationship starts to feel the heat both in and outside the kitchen—and they must figure out if they have the right ingredients for a happily ever after.
Publication Date: January 18, 2022
Summary: Recently divorced and on the verge of bankruptcy, Dahlia Woodson is ready to reinvent herself on the popular reality competition show Chef’s Special. Too bad the first memorable move she makes is falling flat on her face, sending fish tacos flying—not quite the fresh start she was hoping for. Still, she's focused on winning, until she meets someone she might want a future with more than she needs the prize money.
After announcing their pronouns on national television, London Parker has enough on their mind without worrying about the klutzy competitor stationed in front of them. They’re there to prove the trolls—including a fellow contestant and their dad—wrong, and falling in love was never part of the plan.
As London and Dahlia get closer, reality starts to fall away. Goodbye, guilt about divorce, anxiety about uncertain futures, and stress from transphobia. Hello, hilarious shenanigans on set, wedding crashing, and spontaneous dips into the Pacific. But as the finale draws near, Dahlia and London’s steamy relationship starts to feel the heat both in and outside the kitchen—and they must figure out if they have the right ingredients for a happily ever after.
Melt with You
Author: Jennifer Dugan
Publication Date: May 17, 2022
Summary: Fallon and Chloe used to be best friends, but last summer they hooked up right before Chloe left for college, and after a series of misunderstandings they are now not speaking to one another. A year later, Chloe’s back home from school, and Fallon is doing everything in her power to avoid her--which is especially difficult because their moms own a business together, a gourmet ice cream truck where both girls work.
When their moms have the opportunity to make a presentation to some venture capitalists in Texas--something that could seriously expand their business and solve all their money problems to boot--it's up to Fallon to work a series of food truck festivals across the country. But she can't do it alone, and Chloe is the only one available to help. As tensions heat up again between the two, will Fallon be able to keep her cool?
Publication Date: May 17, 2022
Summary: Fallon and Chloe used to be best friends, but last summer they hooked up right before Chloe left for college, and after a series of misunderstandings they are now not speaking to one another. A year later, Chloe’s back home from school, and Fallon is doing everything in her power to avoid her--which is especially difficult because their moms own a business together, a gourmet ice cream truck where both girls work.
When their moms have the opportunity to make a presentation to some venture capitalists in Texas--something that could seriously expand their business and solve all their money problems to boot--it's up to Fallon to work a series of food truck festivals across the country. But she can't do it alone, and Chloe is the only one available to help. As tensions heat up again between the two, will Fallon be able to keep her cool?
Paris Daillencourt is About to Crumble
Author: Alexis Hall
Publication Date: November 1, 2022
Summary: Paris Daillencourt is a recipe for disaster. Despite his passion for baking, his cat, and his classics degree, constant self-doubt and second-guessing have left him a curdled, directionless mess. So when his roommate enters him in Bake Expectations, the nation’s favourite baking show, Paris is sure he’ll be the first one sent home.
But not only does he win week one’s challenge—he meets fellow contestant Tariq Hassan. Sure, he’s the competition, but he’s also cute and kind, with more confidence than Paris could ever hope to have. Still, neither his growing romance with Tariq nor his own impressive bakes can keep Paris’s fear of failure from spoiling his happiness. And when the show’s vicious fanbase confirms his worst anxieties, Paris’s confidence is torn apart quicker than tear-and-share bread.
But if Paris can find the strength to face his past, his future, and the chorus of hecklers that live in his brain, he’ll realize it’s the sweet things in life that he really deserves.
Publication Date: November 1, 2022
Summary: Paris Daillencourt is a recipe for disaster. Despite his passion for baking, his cat, and his classics degree, constant self-doubt and second-guessing have left him a curdled, directionless mess. So when his roommate enters him in Bake Expectations, the nation’s favourite baking show, Paris is sure he’ll be the first one sent home.
But not only does he win week one’s challenge—he meets fellow contestant Tariq Hassan. Sure, he’s the competition, but he’s also cute and kind, with more confidence than Paris could ever hope to have. Still, neither his growing romance with Tariq nor his own impressive bakes can keep Paris’s fear of failure from spoiling his happiness. And when the show’s vicious fanbase confirms his worst anxieties, Paris’s confidence is torn apart quicker than tear-and-share bread.
But if Paris can find the strength to face his past, his future, and the chorus of hecklers that live in his brain, he’ll realize it’s the sweet things in life that he really deserves.
Playing with Fire
Author: Lesley Davis
Publication Date: June 1, 2019
Summary: Takira Lathan’s life revolves around her restaurant. She owns it, cooks in it, and is one hundred percent dedicated to its success. Her life starts to veer off course when money goes missing and so does her restaurant manager, leaving her in the lurch. Most importantly, raising her young nephew was never anywhere in her plans.
Dante Groves could be the answer to Takira’s prayers. She’s an excellent manager and is totally at ease with children. She’s also mature, kind, and unashamedly butch. Takira can’t help being attracted, but Dante’s emotional baggage from her last relationship has left her way too wary of romance.
Betrayed by those they trusted, Takira and Dante must rely on each other to create a recipe for success, both in business and in love.
Publication Date: June 1, 2019
Summary: Takira Lathan’s life revolves around her restaurant. She owns it, cooks in it, and is one hundred percent dedicated to its success. Her life starts to veer off course when money goes missing and so does her restaurant manager, leaving her in the lurch. Most importantly, raising her young nephew was never anywhere in her plans.
Dante Groves could be the answer to Takira’s prayers. She’s an excellent manager and is totally at ease with children. She’s also mature, kind, and unashamedly butch. Takira can’t help being attracted, but Dante’s emotional baggage from her last relationship has left her way too wary of romance.
Betrayed by those they trusted, Takira and Dante must rely on each other to create a recipe for success, both in business and in love.
Recipe for Love
Author: Aurora Rey
Publication Date: April 16, 2019
Summary: A recipe for love:
One cup of homespun country farmer
Two dollops of hotshot city chef
A sprinkle of funky little restaurant
Increase the heat until romance sizzles.
Hannah Little doesn’t have much use for fancy chefs or fancy restaurants, but that’s exactly what Three Willows Farm needs to survive. When a local restaurant wants to feature her produce, she’s thrilled. But the contract means working with an egotistical, and (let’s face it) drop-dead-gorgeous head chef from New York City.
Chef Drew Davis can’t wait to run her own kitchen. If taking a job at some trendy farm-to-table restaurant in the middle of nowheresville will get her there faster, she’s on board. She has no intention of staying though, and that means the feisty farmer who keeps trying to tell her how to do her job can’t be anything more than a pleasant distraction.
Publication Date: April 16, 2019
Summary: A recipe for love:
One cup of homespun country farmer
Two dollops of hotshot city chef
A sprinkle of funky little restaurant
Increase the heat until romance sizzles.
Hannah Little doesn’t have much use for fancy chefs or fancy restaurants, but that’s exactly what Three Willows Farm needs to survive. When a local restaurant wants to feature her produce, she’s thrilled. But the contract means working with an egotistical, and (let’s face it) drop-dead-gorgeous head chef from New York City.
Chef Drew Davis can’t wait to run her own kitchen. If taking a job at some trendy farm-to-table restaurant in the middle of nowheresville will get her there faster, she’s on board. She has no intention of staying though, and that means the feisty farmer who keeps trying to tell her how to do her job can’t be anything more than a pleasant distraction.
Roux for Two
Author: Aurora Rey
Publication Date: May 16, 2023
Summary: When her celebrity chef boss is taken down in a sexual harassment scandal, Chelsea Boudreaux's dream of getting her own cooking show comes true. Her hometown of Duchesne, Louisiana, provides the perfect backdrop for her modern takes on traditional Cajun fare. Vindicating herself to the mother who never believed in her is icing on the cake.
Bryce Cormier never left Duchesne and has no regrets, except that falling in love as a trans guy in a tiny town is easier said than done. When Chelsea comes home after more than a decade away, Bryce thinks he may have found the perfect woman. At least until Chelsea's burgeoning celebrity spills over and turns his world upside down.
It turns out love is like a good gumbo--what seems simple is complex, and the best results require a bit of courage. And like all the recipes say... First, you make a roux.
Publication Date: May 16, 2023
Summary: When her celebrity chef boss is taken down in a sexual harassment scandal, Chelsea Boudreaux's dream of getting her own cooking show comes true. Her hometown of Duchesne, Louisiana, provides the perfect backdrop for her modern takes on traditional Cajun fare. Vindicating herself to the mother who never believed in her is icing on the cake.
Bryce Cormier never left Duchesne and has no regrets, except that falling in love as a trans guy in a tiny town is easier said than done. When Chelsea comes home after more than a decade away, Bryce thinks he may have found the perfect woman. At least until Chelsea's burgeoning celebrity spills over and turns his world upside down.
It turns out love is like a good gumbo--what seems simple is complex, and the best results require a bit of courage. And like all the recipes say... First, you make a roux.
The Dos and Donuts of Love
Author: Adiba Jaigirdar
Publication Date: June 6, 2023
Summary: “Welcome to the first ever Junior Irish Baking Show!”
Shireen Malik is still reeling from the breakup with her ex-girlfriend, Chris, when she receives news that she’s been accepted as a contestant on a new televised baking competition show. This is Shireen’s dream come true! Because winning will not only mean prize money, but it will also bring some much-needed attention to You Drive Me Glazy, her parents’ beloved donut shop.
Things get complicated, though, because Chris is also a contestant on the show. Then there’s the very outgoing Niamh, a fellow contestant who is becoming fast friends with Shireen. Things are heating up between them, and not just in the kitchen.
As the competition intensifies , Shireen will have to ignore all these factors and more― including potential sabotage―if she wants a sweet victory!
Publication Date: June 6, 2023
Summary: “Welcome to the first ever Junior Irish Baking Show!”
Shireen Malik is still reeling from the breakup with her ex-girlfriend, Chris, when she receives news that she’s been accepted as a contestant on a new televised baking competition show. This is Shireen’s dream come true! Because winning will not only mean prize money, but it will also bring some much-needed attention to You Drive Me Glazy, her parents’ beloved donut shop.
Things get complicated, though, because Chris is also a contestant on the show. Then there’s the very outgoing Niamh, a fellow contestant who is becoming fast friends with Shireen. Things are heating up between them, and not just in the kitchen.
As the competition intensifies , Shireen will have to ignore all these factors and more― including potential sabotage―if she wants a sweet victory!
The Heartbreak Bakery
Author: A.R. Capetta
Publication Date: October 12, 2021
Summary: “What’s done is done.”
Unless, of course, it was done by my brownies. Then it’s getting undone.
Syd (no pronouns, please) has always dealt with big, hard-to-talk-about things by baking. Being dumped is no different, except now Syd is baking at the Proud Muffin, a queer bakery and community space in Austin. And everyone who eats Syd’s breakup brownies . . . breaks up. Even Vin and Alec, who own the Proud Muffin. And their breakup might take the bakery down with it. Being dumped is one thing; causing ripples of queer heartbreak through the community is another. But the cute bike delivery person, Harley (he or they, check the pronoun pin, it’s probably on the messenger bag), believes Syd about the magic baking. And Harley believes Syd’s magical baking can fix things, too—one recipe at a time.
Publication Date: October 12, 2021
Summary: “What’s done is done.”
Unless, of course, it was done by my brownies. Then it’s getting undone.
Syd (no pronouns, please) has always dealt with big, hard-to-talk-about things by baking. Being dumped is no different, except now Syd is baking at the Proud Muffin, a queer bakery and community space in Austin. And everyone who eats Syd’s breakup brownies . . . breaks up. Even Vin and Alec, who own the Proud Muffin. And their breakup might take the bakery down with it. Being dumped is one thing; causing ripples of queer heartbreak through the community is another. But the cute bike delivery person, Harley (he or they, check the pronoun pin, it’s probably on the messenger bag), believes Syd about the magic baking. And Harley believes Syd’s magical baking can fix things, too—one recipe at a time.
The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Author: Deya Muniz
Publication Date: May 9, 2023
Summary: Lady Camembert wants to live life on her own terms, without marriage. Well, without marrying a man, that is. But the law of the land is that women cannot inherit. So when her father passes away, she does the only thing she can: She disguises herself as a man and moves to the capital city of the Kingdom of Fromage to start over as Count Camembert.
But it’s hard to keep a low profile when the beautiful Princess Brie, with her fierce activism and great sense of fashion, catches her attention. Camembert can’t resist getting to know the princess, but as the two grow closer, will she able to keep her secret?
A romantic comedy about mistaken identity, true love, and lots of grilled cheese.
Publication Date: May 9, 2023
Summary: Lady Camembert wants to live life on her own terms, without marriage. Well, without marrying a man, that is. But the law of the land is that women cannot inherit. So when her father passes away, she does the only thing she can: She disguises herself as a man and moves to the capital city of the Kingdom of Fromage to start over as Count Camembert.
But it’s hard to keep a low profile when the beautiful Princess Brie, with her fierce activism and great sense of fashion, catches her attention. Camembert can’t resist getting to know the princess, but as the two grow closer, will she able to keep her secret?
A romantic comedy about mistaken identity, true love, and lots of grilled cheese.
Two Grooms on a Cake
Author: Rob Sanders
Publication Date: May 4, 2021
Summary: This is the story of Jack Baker and Michael McConnell and their inspiring story becoming the first married gay couple in the US fifty years ago.
Long before marriage equality was the law of the land, two grooms stood on a wedding cake with their feet firmly planted in fluffy white frosting. That cake belonged to Jack Baker and Michael McConnell, who were wed on September 3, 1971, becoming the first same-sex couple in America to be legally married. Their struggle to obtain a marriage license in Minnesota and their subsequent appeals to the Minnesota Supreme Court and the Supreme Court of the United States is an under-told story of LGBT history. This beautiful book celebrates the love story of two pioneers of marriage equality for all through the baking of their wedding cake!
Publication Date: May 4, 2021
Summary: This is the story of Jack Baker and Michael McConnell and their inspiring story becoming the first married gay couple in the US fifty years ago.
Long before marriage equality was the law of the land, two grooms stood on a wedding cake with their feet firmly planted in fluffy white frosting. That cake belonged to Jack Baker and Michael McConnell, who were wed on September 3, 1971, becoming the first same-sex couple in America to be legally married. Their struggle to obtain a marriage license in Minnesota and their subsequent appeals to the Minnesota Supreme Court and the Supreme Court of the United States is an under-told story of LGBT history. This beautiful book celebrates the love story of two pioneers of marriage equality for all through the baking of their wedding cake!
Wooing the Farmer
Author: Jenny Frame
Publication Date: March 12, 2019
Summary: Penelope Huntingdon-Stewart, highly successful clean-eating food vlogger and owner of the website Penny’s Kitchen, is looking for a new direction for her brand. At least that’s what she tells herself when she retreats to Axedale to record a new web series and write a cookbook. That sounds so much better than damage control after her only live, on-screen interview ends in an oh-so-public epileptic seizure.
Farmer Sam McQuade is immediately attracted to Penelope, but the ultra femme and high maintenance city girl seems way out of her league. When Penelope struggles to get her health on track, Quade insists on being her knight in shining armor, much to Penelope’s displeasure. Quade is annoyingly good-looking, not to mention kindhearted, and falling for her would be so easy. If only it didn’t force Penelope to face the secrets she’s hidden from everyone. Can love alone bring a complex city girl and a simple rural farmer together?
Publication Date: March 12, 2019
Summary: Penelope Huntingdon-Stewart, highly successful clean-eating food vlogger and owner of the website Penny’s Kitchen, is looking for a new direction for her brand. At least that’s what she tells herself when she retreats to Axedale to record a new web series and write a cookbook. That sounds so much better than damage control after her only live, on-screen interview ends in an oh-so-public epileptic seizure.
Farmer Sam McQuade is immediately attracted to Penelope, but the ultra femme and high maintenance city girl seems way out of her league. When Penelope struggles to get her health on track, Quade insists on being her knight in shining armor, much to Penelope’s displeasure. Quade is annoyingly good-looking, not to mention kindhearted, and falling for her would be so easy. If only it didn’t force Penelope to face the secrets she’s hidden from everyone. Can love alone bring a complex city girl and a simple rural farmer together?
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Monday, June 19, 2023
Interview with Ash Van Otterloo, author of THE BEAUTIFUL SOMETHING ELSE
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I get to interview Ash Van Otterloo (they/them)!!!! This is only so exciting for me because I absolutely adored their previous books Cattywampus and A Touch of Ruckus, so getting to talk to them about their most recent book was amazing!!!! The Beautiful Something Else is a beautifully written, but quite emotional book. I loved every second of it even when I wanted to cry and wrap Sparrow in a hug.
I got to ask Ash questions about the idea for this book, the entires at the start of each chapter, and how the book got its title. Links to give them a follow on social media or order The Beautiful Something Else will be at the end of the interview. So now: sit back, relax, and enjoy!
Thursday, June 15, 2023
Authors Talk: Queer Books Past, Present, and Future: Pride Month
A short while ago I posted a Google form for authors to answer where we discussed queer books past, present, and future. Here are a few of the answers that I received.
Dahlia Adler: (she/her) Author of queer books including Going Bicoastal, Cool for the Summer, and Home Field Advantage.
Deke Moulton: (she/they) Author of the upcoming novel Don't Want to Be Your Monster.
Caroline Huntoon: (they/them) Author of the recently released book Skating on Mars.
Alder (Ash) Van Otterloo: (they/he) Author of middle-grade books Cattywampus, A Touch of Ruckus, and The Beautiful Something Else.
Jae: (she/her) Author of queer books including Backwards to Oregon, Chemistry Lessons, and Just a Touch Away.
Jen St. Jude: (they/them, she/her) Author of the recently released book If Tomorrow Doesn't Come.
Michelle Mohrweis: (they/them) Author of The Trouble with Robots and the upcoming book The Problem with Gravity.
Dahlia Adler: Imogen, Obviously by Becky Albertalli was the most recent one that hit a lot of nails on a lot of heads for me. Hot Dog Girl by Jennifer Dugan and Far From You by Tess Sharpe were definitely big ones. And it's adult, but In at the Deep End by Kate Davies had a life-changing line for me.
Deke Moulton: Honestly, THE CITY BEAUTIFUL by Aden Polydoros. I loved the intersection of Jewish observance and a desire to remain in the community with wonderful deconstructions of the ways in which Biblical mistranslations have led to persecution of queer people.
Caroline Huntoon: ALWAYS THE ALMOST (Edward Underhill), IF TOMORROW DOESN'T COME (Jen St. Jude), FELIX EVER AFTER (Kacen Callender)... always looking for more.
Alder (Ash) Van Otterloo: Hell Followed with Us, The Deep, I Wish You All the Best, It Came From the Closet, The Merry Spinster, The Witch King duology, The River Has Teeth, The Sound of Stars...to name a VERY few.
Jae: Most meaningful to me were the first LGBTQ+ books I read, including Silent Legacy by Ciaran Llachlan Leavitt and And Playing the Role of Herself by KE Lane. I grew up in a tiny little village, with no openly LGBTQ+ people around, so books like these were a lifesaver. I was also pleasantly surprised to find a character with aphantasia in Write for Her by Kim Hartfield. I had never seen that aspect of myself represented in fiction.
Jen St. Jude: The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily Danforth, We Are Okay by Nina LaCour, The Sky Blues by Robbie Couch, Her Name in the Sky by Kelly Quindlen, We Deserve Monuments by Jas Hammonds, Man O' War by Cory McCarthy, Cantoras by Carolina de Robertis, everything by Lin Thompson, Just As You Are by Camille Kellogg, More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera.
Michelle Mohrweis: Oh goodness! There’s so many, but here’s a few highlights. First, some middle grade:
In middle grade, IZZY AT THE END OF THE WORLD by K.A. Reynolds features a bisexual autistic girl trying to save her family after aliens make everyone vanish away. As a queer autistic enby, I loved reading that rep, especially in a story as fun and spooky and adventurous as that one!
MEOW OR NEVER by Jazz Taylor is a wonderful story that really made me feel seen in a way I can’t explain. Along with a queer first crush plotline, it had an anxious main character. I battle with my anxiety a lot, and I really wish there had been more books showing characters grappling with it when I was a kid. Plus it has cats. I love cats!
Moving into young adult:
I can’t get enough of LAKELORE by Anna-Marie McLemore. The main characters are neurodivergent and nonbinary, and as a neurodivergent enby myself, this book really resonated with me. From the conversations about gender and what it means to them, to the way the main characters think and act, this story was so validating and wonderful. Plus, it’s absolutely beautiful, written in an almost lyrical tone as the characters find their magical world below the lake starting to appear around them on the surface! I especially loved how the book showed the way so many of us click when we find each other, that sheer joy and relief at being able to have conversations with another neurodivergent person where you aren’t viewed as too random or one upping, but instead are understood, even if the other person doesn’t always follow your particular train of thought.
I really enjoyed and felt seen when reading FIRE BECOMES HER by Rosiee Thor. Rosiee writes amazing aro/ace characters and it’s so refreshing to read a book showing a queer platonic relationship. Also it has magic you can drink and so much intrigue packed into a 1920s style setting, so not only did their book make me feel seen… but it also really entertained me!
The graphic novel MAGICAL BOY made me feel so seen. The main character is a trans boy, and although I’m nonbinary, so many of his struggles getting people to see him for who he is really resonated with me. There’s a scene where he is trying on clothing and one popular queer style is still more form fitting than he likes, and that just stuck with me because I grapple with that all the time! This was also the book that finally got me to try a binder, which was so, so, so affirming. Add in all the adventure and magic and poking fun at countless magical girl tropes (but in a loving way) and this graphic novel quickly became one of my favorites.
Dahlia Adler: I've been anxiously awaiting Naomi Kanakia's Just Happy to Be Here (January 2024) for ages, and I'm really excited for more by Edward Underhill the month after that; I loved Always the Almost so much. The No Girlfriend Rule by Christen Randall sounds like a mix of everything I love, and I'm obsessed with Feiwel & Friends' Remixed Classics series - I absolutely loved Caleb Roehrig's upcoming Teach the Torches to Burn, and I'm ridiculously excited for Most Ardently by Gabe Cole Novoa. Also, gimme more K. Ancrum, always - cannot wait for her Icarus.
Deke Moulton: I cannot wait to read THE BEAUTIFUL SOMETHING ELSE by Ash Von Otterloo! SECOND SIR CALLIE!!!!! (and knowing that I'm in for a ride with two more books to complete the series!) ALEX WISE by Terry Benton-Walker.
Caroline Huntoon: THIS DAY CHANGES EVERYTHING (Edward Underhill), IRIS KELLY DOESN'T DATE (Ashley Herring Blake), ASKING FOR A FRIEND (Ronnie Riley), NOAH FRYE GETS CRUSHED (Maggie Horne)... AND SO MANY MORE.
Alder (Ash) Van Otterloo: The Otherwoods (MG, Winans, 23), All That Consumes Us (YA, Waters, 23), Don't Want to be Your Monster (Moulton, 23), Flicker (Edgmon '24), The Lumbering Giants of Windy Pines (Netz, '24), and Night of the Living Queers (antho, Page). I'm currently really enjoying Blood Debts (Terry Benton Walker)!
Jae: There are two fake relationship romances (which are my catnip trope) that I'm looking forward to: "Fly With Me" by Andie Burke and "Cover Story" by Rachel Lacey (She just signed with Montlake, but I don't think it has a release date yet). Plus anything Lee Winter and EJ Noyes publish next.
Jen St. Jude: I've talked quite a bit about 2023 books so let me look ahead to 2024! Just a small handful but I can't wait for A Good Happy Girl by Marissa Higgins, A Bahn Mi for Two by Trinity Nguyen, Wake Up, Nat & Darcy by Kate Cochrane, Mischief & Matchmaking by Emma R. Alban, Our Shattered Masks by Erin Luken, and Time and Time Again by Chatham Greenfield.
Michelle Mohrweis: I can’t wait to read Sonora Reyes’s queer autistic revenge story, THE LUIS ORTEGA SURVIVAL CLUB. Sonora writes some truly amazing stories, and they have a talent for grappling with dark subjects in an approachable and nuanced way, as well as creating wonderful queer characters that stick with you long after you finish reading. I have so much respect for them, and am so excited for this book.
LOVE LETTERS FOR JOY by Melissa See is another book I can’t wait for. Academic rivalry, enemies to lovers, panromantic ace main character and so much other queer rep… it’s going to be a delightful read!
The upcoming young adult sapphic fantasy SO LET THEM BURN by Kamilah Cole looks amazing! It’s got dragons and magic and sisterhood all set in a world inspired by Jamaica! Also, I know we aren’t supposed to judge a book by its cover, but have you seen how magical that cover looks?
Dahlia Adler: More transfem rep in all categories, 1000%, and I'd also really love to see more books that explore the intersections not just of queerness and religion, but queerness and being a member of a religious community. .
Deke Moulton: I honestly would love to see more queer books with positive religious experiences, or tackling misconceptions within rigid, traditional frameworks. I swear I've seen much more Jewish queer books (thinking of Dahlia Adler, Aden Polydoros, Sarah Kapit, Rebecca Podos, uhh... me?) - but I'd love to see other faiths as well. I loved BUTCH HIJABI BLUES for seeing validation through readings of Quranic texts. (of course, I love HELL FOLLOWED WITH US for it's handling of fundamentalists, too!).
Caroline Huntoon: I just want more... there is such a range of experiences and identities within the LGBTQ+ community... I want there to be an abundance of different kinds of stories, so people can see their own truths and those books and work to understand the identities of others more fully.
Alder (Ash) Van Otterloo: Trans women/transfem authors in kidlit! And more trans horror, always. The eerier, the better!
Jae: More books with "everyday" characters--someone like Denny from my novel Wrong Number, Right Woman, who has love handles and works as a cashier. More diversity--BIPOC characters, neurodivergent characters, body-positive books, etc..
Jen St. Jude: Definitely more YA by trans women and trans feminine people! And we always so desperately in need of more BIPOC writers, neurodivergent writers, disabled writers...give us all the voices!
Michelle Mohrweis: I'd love to see more middle grade books with queer rep, especially in SFF. There's so many amazing queer contemporary middle grade books (heck, it's what I write) but as huge fan of fantasy and scifi, I'd love to see that rep makes it's way into that area more as well. There are some AMAZING ones already, but I always long for more!
Dahlia Adler: Website, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
Deke Moulton: Website, Twitter, andInstagram.
Caroline Huntoon: Website, Twitter, andInstagram.
Alder (Ash) Van Otterloo: Website, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
Jae: Website, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Jen St. Jude: Website, Twitter, andInstagram.
Michelle Mohrweis: Website, Instagram, and TikTok.
Introduction to the authors. Authors will be color-coded to make matching answer and responses easier, at least to me.
Dahlia Adler: (she/her) Author of queer books including Going Bicoastal, Cool for the Summer, and Home Field Advantage.
Deke Moulton: (she/they) Author of the upcoming novel Don't Want to Be Your Monster.
Caroline Huntoon: (they/them) Author of the recently released book Skating on Mars.
Alder (Ash) Van Otterloo: (they/he) Author of middle-grade books Cattywampus, A Touch of Ruckus, and The Beautiful Something Else.
Jae: (she/her) Author of queer books including Backwards to Oregon, Chemistry Lessons, and Just a Touch Away.
Jen St. Jude: (they/them, she/her) Author of the recently released book If Tomorrow Doesn't Come.
Michelle Mohrweis: (they/them) Author of The Trouble with Robots and the upcoming book The Problem with Gravity.
What are/were some LGBTQ+ books that made you feel seen?
Dahlia Adler: Imogen, Obviously by Becky Albertalli was the most recent one that hit a lot of nails on a lot of heads for me. Hot Dog Girl by Jennifer Dugan and Far From You by Tess Sharpe were definitely big ones. And it's adult, but In at the Deep End by Kate Davies had a life-changing line for me.
Deke Moulton: Honestly, THE CITY BEAUTIFUL by Aden Polydoros. I loved the intersection of Jewish observance and a desire to remain in the community with wonderful deconstructions of the ways in which Biblical mistranslations have led to persecution of queer people.
Caroline Huntoon: ALWAYS THE ALMOST (Edward Underhill), IF TOMORROW DOESN'T COME (Jen St. Jude), FELIX EVER AFTER (Kacen Callender)... always looking for more.
Alder (Ash) Van Otterloo: Hell Followed with Us, The Deep, I Wish You All the Best, It Came From the Closet, The Merry Spinster, The Witch King duology, The River Has Teeth, The Sound of Stars...to name a VERY few.
Jae: Most meaningful to me were the first LGBTQ+ books I read, including Silent Legacy by Ciaran Llachlan Leavitt and And Playing the Role of Herself by KE Lane. I grew up in a tiny little village, with no openly LGBTQ+ people around, so books like these were a lifesaver. I was also pleasantly surprised to find a character with aphantasia in Write for Her by Kim Hartfield. I had never seen that aspect of myself represented in fiction.
Jen St. Jude: The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily Danforth, We Are Okay by Nina LaCour, The Sky Blues by Robbie Couch, Her Name in the Sky by Kelly Quindlen, We Deserve Monuments by Jas Hammonds, Man O' War by Cory McCarthy, Cantoras by Carolina de Robertis, everything by Lin Thompson, Just As You Are by Camille Kellogg, More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera.
Michelle Mohrweis: Oh goodness! There’s so many, but here’s a few highlights. First, some middle grade:
In middle grade, IZZY AT THE END OF THE WORLD by K.A. Reynolds features a bisexual autistic girl trying to save her family after aliens make everyone vanish away. As a queer autistic enby, I loved reading that rep, especially in a story as fun and spooky and adventurous as that one!
MEOW OR NEVER by Jazz Taylor is a wonderful story that really made me feel seen in a way I can’t explain. Along with a queer first crush plotline, it had an anxious main character. I battle with my anxiety a lot, and I really wish there had been more books showing characters grappling with it when I was a kid. Plus it has cats. I love cats!
Moving into young adult:
I can’t get enough of LAKELORE by Anna-Marie McLemore. The main characters are neurodivergent and nonbinary, and as a neurodivergent enby myself, this book really resonated with me. From the conversations about gender and what it means to them, to the way the main characters think and act, this story was so validating and wonderful. Plus, it’s absolutely beautiful, written in an almost lyrical tone as the characters find their magical world below the lake starting to appear around them on the surface! I especially loved how the book showed the way so many of us click when we find each other, that sheer joy and relief at being able to have conversations with another neurodivergent person where you aren’t viewed as too random or one upping, but instead are understood, even if the other person doesn’t always follow your particular train of thought.
I really enjoyed and felt seen when reading FIRE BECOMES HER by Rosiee Thor. Rosiee writes amazing aro/ace characters and it’s so refreshing to read a book showing a queer platonic relationship. Also it has magic you can drink and so much intrigue packed into a 1920s style setting, so not only did their book make me feel seen… but it also really entertained me!
The graphic novel MAGICAL BOY made me feel so seen. The main character is a trans boy, and although I’m nonbinary, so many of his struggles getting people to see him for who he is really resonated with me. There’s a scene where he is trying on clothing and one popular queer style is still more form fitting than he likes, and that just stuck with me because I grapple with that all the time! This was also the book that finally got me to try a binder, which was so, so, so affirming. Add in all the adventure and magic and poking fun at countless magical girl tropes (but in a loving way) and this graphic novel quickly became one of my favorites.
What are some upcoming LGBTQ+ books (releasing in 2023/2024) that you're looking forward to reading?
Dahlia Adler: I've been anxiously awaiting Naomi Kanakia's Just Happy to Be Here (January 2024) for ages, and I'm really excited for more by Edward Underhill the month after that; I loved Always the Almost so much. The No Girlfriend Rule by Christen Randall sounds like a mix of everything I love, and I'm obsessed with Feiwel & Friends' Remixed Classics series - I absolutely loved Caleb Roehrig's upcoming Teach the Torches to Burn, and I'm ridiculously excited for Most Ardently by Gabe Cole Novoa. Also, gimme more K. Ancrum, always - cannot wait for her Icarus.
Deke Moulton: I cannot wait to read THE BEAUTIFUL SOMETHING ELSE by Ash Von Otterloo! SECOND SIR CALLIE!!!!! (and knowing that I'm in for a ride with two more books to complete the series!) ALEX WISE by Terry Benton-Walker.
Caroline Huntoon: THIS DAY CHANGES EVERYTHING (Edward Underhill), IRIS KELLY DOESN'T DATE (Ashley Herring Blake), ASKING FOR A FRIEND (Ronnie Riley), NOAH FRYE GETS CRUSHED (Maggie Horne)... AND SO MANY MORE.
Alder (Ash) Van Otterloo: The Otherwoods (MG, Winans, 23), All That Consumes Us (YA, Waters, 23), Don't Want to be Your Monster (Moulton, 23), Flicker (Edgmon '24), The Lumbering Giants of Windy Pines (Netz, '24), and Night of the Living Queers (antho, Page). I'm currently really enjoying Blood Debts (Terry Benton Walker)!
Jae: There are two fake relationship romances (which are my catnip trope) that I'm looking forward to: "Fly With Me" by Andie Burke and "Cover Story" by Rachel Lacey (She just signed with Montlake, but I don't think it has a release date yet). Plus anything Lee Winter and EJ Noyes publish next.
Jen St. Jude: I've talked quite a bit about 2023 books so let me look ahead to 2024! Just a small handful but I can't wait for A Good Happy Girl by Marissa Higgins, A Bahn Mi for Two by Trinity Nguyen, Wake Up, Nat & Darcy by Kate Cochrane, Mischief & Matchmaking by Emma R. Alban, Our Shattered Masks by Erin Luken, and Time and Time Again by Chatham Greenfield.
Michelle Mohrweis: I can’t wait to read Sonora Reyes’s queer autistic revenge story, THE LUIS ORTEGA SURVIVAL CLUB. Sonora writes some truly amazing stories, and they have a talent for grappling with dark subjects in an approachable and nuanced way, as well as creating wonderful queer characters that stick with you long after you finish reading. I have so much respect for them, and am so excited for this book.
LOVE LETTERS FOR JOY by Melissa See is another book I can’t wait for. Academic rivalry, enemies to lovers, panromantic ace main character and so much other queer rep… it’s going to be a delightful read!
The upcoming young adult sapphic fantasy SO LET THEM BURN by Kamilah Cole looks amazing! It’s got dragons and magic and sisterhood all set in a world inspired by Jamaica! Also, I know we aren’t supposed to judge a book by its cover, but have you seen how magical that cover looks?
What representation or type of LGBTQ+ books would you like to see more of in the future?
Dahlia Adler: More transfem rep in all categories, 1000%, and I'd also really love to see more books that explore the intersections not just of queerness and religion, but queerness and being a member of a religious community. .
Deke Moulton: I honestly would love to see more queer books with positive religious experiences, or tackling misconceptions within rigid, traditional frameworks. I swear I've seen much more Jewish queer books (thinking of Dahlia Adler, Aden Polydoros, Sarah Kapit, Rebecca Podos, uhh... me?) - but I'd love to see other faiths as well. I loved BUTCH HIJABI BLUES for seeing validation through readings of Quranic texts. (of course, I love HELL FOLLOWED WITH US for it's handling of fundamentalists, too!).
Caroline Huntoon: I just want more... there is such a range of experiences and identities within the LGBTQ+ community... I want there to be an abundance of different kinds of stories, so people can see their own truths and those books and work to understand the identities of others more fully.
Alder (Ash) Van Otterloo: Trans women/transfem authors in kidlit! And more trans horror, always. The eerier, the better!
Jae: More books with "everyday" characters--someone like Denny from my novel Wrong Number, Right Woman, who has love handles and works as a cashier. More diversity--BIPOC characters, neurodivergent characters, body-positive books, etc..
Jen St. Jude: Definitely more YA by trans women and trans feminine people! And we always so desperately in need of more BIPOC writers, neurodivergent writers, disabled writers...give us all the voices!
Michelle Mohrweis: I'd love to see more middle grade books with queer rep, especially in SFF. There's so many amazing queer contemporary middle grade books (heck, it's what I write) but as huge fan of fantasy and scifi, I'd love to see that rep makes it's way into that area more as well. There are some AMAZING ones already, but I always long for more!
Here's where to follow the authors!
Dahlia Adler: Website, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
Deke Moulton: Website, Twitter, andInstagram.
Caroline Huntoon: Website, Twitter, andInstagram.
Alder (Ash) Van Otterloo: Website, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
Jae: Website, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Jen St. Jude: Website, Twitter, andInstagram.
Michelle Mohrweis: Website, Instagram, and TikTok.
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Pride Month: Queer Books with Great Dedications
Here are a list of queer books that have dedications that I just adore. I really, really enjoyed making this list so I plan on making more in the future. There are links to purchase the books connected to the covers, just click and you'll head over there.
The Dos and Donuts of Love
Author: Adiba Jaigirdar
Dedication:
"To all the brown kids, queer kids, fat kids, Muslim kids, anxious kids:
Dream big and don't let anything get in the way of achieving your dreams.
Not even yourself.
(And to donuts, obviously.)"
Summary: “Welcome to the first ever Junior Irish Baking Show!”
Shireen Malik is still reeling from the breakup with her ex-girlfriend, Chris, when she receives news that she’s been accepted as a contestant on a new televised baking competition show. This is Shireen’s dream come true! Because winning will not only mean prize money, but it will also bring some much-needed attention to You Drive Me Glazy, her parents’ beloved donut shop.
Things get complicated, though, because Chris is also a contestant on the show. Then there’s the very outgoing Niamh, a fellow contestant who is becoming fast friends with Shireen. Things are heating up between them, and not just in the kitchen.
As the competition intensifies, Shireen will have to ignore all these factors and more― including potential sabotage―if she wants a sweet victory!
Dedication:
"To all the brown kids, queer kids, fat kids, Muslim kids, anxious kids:
Dream big and don't let anything get in the way of achieving your dreams.
Not even yourself.
(And to donuts, obviously.)"
Summary: “Welcome to the first ever Junior Irish Baking Show!”
Shireen Malik is still reeling from the breakup with her ex-girlfriend, Chris, when she receives news that she’s been accepted as a contestant on a new televised baking competition show. This is Shireen’s dream come true! Because winning will not only mean prize money, but it will also bring some much-needed attention to You Drive Me Glazy, her parents’ beloved donut shop.
Things get complicated, though, because Chris is also a contestant on the show. Then there’s the very outgoing Niamh, a fellow contestant who is becoming fast friends with Shireen. Things are heating up between them, and not just in the kitchen.
As the competition intensifies, Shireen will have to ignore all these factors and more― including potential sabotage―if she wants a sweet victory!
Transmogrify: 14 Fantastical Tales of Trans Magic
Author: g. haron davis
Dedication:
"For the freaks, the geeks, the outcasts, the outsiders, the weirdos, and the unwanted. You are seen, you are loved, and you shine just the way you are."
Summary: Transness is as varied and colorful as magic can be. In Transmogrify!, you’ll embark on fourteen different adventures alongside unforgettable characters who embody many different genders and expressions and experiences—because magic is for everyone, and that is cause for celebration.
Featuring stories from:
AR Capetta and Cory McCarthy
g. haron davis
Mason Deaver
Jonathan Lenore Kastin
Emery Lee
Saundra Mitchell
Cam Montgomery
Ash Nouveau
Sonora Reyes
Renee Reynolds
Dove Salvatierra
Ayida Shonibar
Francesca Tacchi
Nik Traxler
Dedication:
"For the freaks, the geeks, the outcasts, the outsiders, the weirdos, and the unwanted. You are seen, you are loved, and you shine just the way you are."
Summary: Transness is as varied and colorful as magic can be. In Transmogrify!, you’ll embark on fourteen different adventures alongside unforgettable characters who embody many different genders and expressions and experiences—because magic is for everyone, and that is cause for celebration.
Featuring stories from:
AR Capetta and Cory McCarthy
g. haron davis
Mason Deaver
Jonathan Lenore Kastin
Emery Lee
Saundra Mitchell
Cam Montgomery
Ash Nouveau
Sonora Reyes
Renee Reynolds
Dove Salvatierra
Ayida Shonibar
Francesca Tacchi
Nik Traxler
A Touch of Ruckus
Author: Ash Van Otterloo
Dedication:
"To those who take the back seat to keep the peace: may you have beautiful adventures, enjoy love, and know how astonishing you are."
Summary: Tennessee Lancaster has a hidden gift. She can pry into folks' memories with just a touch of their belongings. It's something she's always kept hidden -- especially from her big, chaotic family. Their lives are already chock-full of worries about Daddy's job and Mama's blues without Tennie rocking the boat.
But when the Lancasters move to the mountains for a fresh start, Tennie's gift does something new. Instead of just memories, her touch releases a ghost with a terrifying message: Trouble is coming. Tennie wants to ignore it. Except her new friend Fox -- scratch that, her only friend, Fox -- is desperate to go ghost hunting deep in the forest. And when Tennie frees even more of the spirits, trouble is exactly what she gets... and it hits close to home. The ghosts will be heard, and now Tennie must choose between keeping secrets or naming an ugly truth that could tear her family apart.
Magic and mayhem abound in this spooky story about family legacies, first friendships, and how facing the ghosts inside can sometimes mean stirring up a little bit of ruckus.
Dedication:
"To those who take the back seat to keep the peace: may you have beautiful adventures, enjoy love, and know how astonishing you are."
Summary: Tennessee Lancaster has a hidden gift. She can pry into folks' memories with just a touch of their belongings. It's something she's always kept hidden -- especially from her big, chaotic family. Their lives are already chock-full of worries about Daddy's job and Mama's blues without Tennie rocking the boat.
But when the Lancasters move to the mountains for a fresh start, Tennie's gift does something new. Instead of just memories, her touch releases a ghost with a terrifying message: Trouble is coming. Tennie wants to ignore it. Except her new friend Fox -- scratch that, her only friend, Fox -- is desperate to go ghost hunting deep in the forest. And when Tennie frees even more of the spirits, trouble is exactly what she gets... and it hits close to home. The ghosts will be heard, and now Tennie must choose between keeping secrets or naming an ugly truth that could tear her family apart.
Magic and mayhem abound in this spooky story about family legacies, first friendships, and how facing the ghosts inside can sometimes mean stirring up a little bit of ruckus.
If You'll Have Me
Author: Eunnie
Dedication:
"To the lesbians,
the women who love women,
the sapphics of color,
you are so loved"
Summary: Momo Gardner is the kind of friend who’s always ready to lend a helping hand. She’s introverted, sensitive, and maybe a little too trusting, but she likes to believe the best in people. PG, on the other hand, is a bit of a lone wolf, despite her reputation for being a flirt and a player. Underneath all that cool mystery, she’s actually quick to smile, and when she falls for someone, she falls hard. An unexpected meet-cute brings the two together, kicking off the beginning of an awkward yet endearing courtship—but with their drastically different personalities, Momo’s overprotective friend, and PG’s past coming back to haunt her, Momo and PG’s romance is put to the test.
Dedication:
"To the lesbians,
the women who love women,
the sapphics of color,
you are so loved"
Summary: Momo Gardner is the kind of friend who’s always ready to lend a helping hand. She’s introverted, sensitive, and maybe a little too trusting, but she likes to believe the best in people. PG, on the other hand, is a bit of a lone wolf, despite her reputation for being a flirt and a player. Underneath all that cool mystery, she’s actually quick to smile, and when she falls for someone, she falls hard. An unexpected meet-cute brings the two together, kicking off the beginning of an awkward yet endearing courtship—but with their drastically different personalities, Momo’s overprotective friend, and PG’s past coming back to haunt her, Momo and PG’s romance is put to the test.
They Ain't Proper
Author: M.B. Guel
Dedication:
"For the trans people that history has tried to erase. You deserve to have silly love stories too."
Summary: 1880s, The Wild West.
An easy, solitary life on the outskirts of Ghosthallow is all Lou Ramirez wants. They want to buy some house plans, build a home, and live their quiet life far from townsfolk’s prying eyes. But somehow instead of house plans, a housewife is delivered to their door.
Clementine Castellanos desperately needs a way out from under her family debt, and it seems as though selling her services as a wife is the only way to do it. Expecting a rough, harsh man to be her new husband, Clementine is pleasantly surprised to instead be dropped off at the ranch of an equally surprised Lou.
Lou would rather Clementine leave them to their lonely existence, but Clementine is too charmed by the quiet and mysterious rancher to give up. She may have come into Lou’s life easily, but she certainly isn’t planning to leave that way. Undeterred by Lou’s prickly demeanor, Clementine is determined to get her reluctant spouse to open up to her.
When the past comes back to haunt the pair, the fight for their independence—and their love—may become more deadly than either of them ever expected.
Dedication:
"For the trans people that history has tried to erase. You deserve to have silly love stories too."
Summary: 1880s, The Wild West.
An easy, solitary life on the outskirts of Ghosthallow is all Lou Ramirez wants. They want to buy some house plans, build a home, and live their quiet life far from townsfolk’s prying eyes. But somehow instead of house plans, a housewife is delivered to their door.
Clementine Castellanos desperately needs a way out from under her family debt, and it seems as though selling her services as a wife is the only way to do it. Expecting a rough, harsh man to be her new husband, Clementine is pleasantly surprised to instead be dropped off at the ranch of an equally surprised Lou.
Lou would rather Clementine leave them to their lonely existence, but Clementine is too charmed by the quiet and mysterious rancher to give up. She may have come into Lou’s life easily, but she certainly isn’t planning to leave that way. Undeterred by Lou’s prickly demeanor, Clementine is determined to get her reluctant spouse to open up to her.
When the past comes back to haunt the pair, the fight for their independence—and their love—may become more deadly than either of them ever expected.
Elle Campbell Wins Their Weekend
Author: Ben Kahn
Dedication:
"To everyone who found themselves in stories."
Summary: All Elle Campbell wants to do is meet their hero, non-binary icon Nuri Grena. Well, okay, they'd like a bit more than that -- they'd like to learn how to do cat eye makeup, for queen bee Casey to stop critiquing their outfits, and for the finale of Elle's favorite show to have been less terrible. But meeting Nuri means the most of all.
So when Elle learns that Nuri is coming to town for book signing on Saturday, Elle is thrilled. It's the perfect chance to meet their hero! Elle's never been happier since they came out as non-binary, but they have a lot of questions -- questions only Nuri can answer.
But Elle's dreams are dashed when an altercation with a surly substitute teacher lands Elle in Saturday detention. Elle is ready to give up until their two best friends come up with a plan to bust them out of school. A plan so outrageous, it just might work.
Yet that's just step one. The kids also have to make their way across town with no money, no phones... and no driver's licenses. But they refuse to give up -- even if that means "borrowing" scooters from elementary school loan sharks, or winning a laser tag tournament with a cash prize.
Dedication:
"To everyone who found themselves in stories."
Summary: All Elle Campbell wants to do is meet their hero, non-binary icon Nuri Grena. Well, okay, they'd like a bit more than that -- they'd like to learn how to do cat eye makeup, for queen bee Casey to stop critiquing their outfits, and for the finale of Elle's favorite show to have been less terrible. But meeting Nuri means the most of all.
So when Elle learns that Nuri is coming to town for book signing on Saturday, Elle is thrilled. It's the perfect chance to meet their hero! Elle's never been happier since they came out as non-binary, but they have a lot of questions -- questions only Nuri can answer.
But Elle's dreams are dashed when an altercation with a surly substitute teacher lands Elle in Saturday detention. Elle is ready to give up until their two best friends come up with a plan to bust them out of school. A plan so outrageous, it just might work.
Yet that's just step one. The kids also have to make their way across town with no money, no phones... and no driver's licenses. But they refuse to give up -- even if that means "borrowing" scooters from elementary school loan sharks, or winning a laser tag tournament with a cash prize.
Hell Followed with Us
Author: Andrew Joseph White
Dedication:
"For the kids who sharpen their teeth and bite."
Summary: Sixteen-year-old trans boy Benji is on the run from the cult that raised him—the fundamentalist sect that unleashed Armageddon and decimated the world’s population. Desperately, he searches for a place where the cult can’t get their hands on him, or more importantly, on the bioweapon they infected him with.
But when cornered by monsters born from the destruction, Benji is rescued by a group of teens from the local Acheson LGBTQ+ Center, affectionately known as the ALC. The ALC’s leader, Nick, is gorgeous, autistic, and a deadly shot, and he knows Benji’s darkest secret: the cult’s bioweapon is mutating him into a monster deadly enough to wipe humanity from the earth once and for all.
Still, Nick offers Benji shelter among his ragtag group of queer teens, as long as Benji can control the monster and use its power to defend the ALC. Eager to belong, Benji accepts Nick’s terms…until he discovers the ALC’s mysterious leader has a hidden agenda, and more than a few secrets of his own.
Dedication:
"For the kids who sharpen their teeth and bite."
Summary: Sixteen-year-old trans boy Benji is on the run from the cult that raised him—the fundamentalist sect that unleashed Armageddon and decimated the world’s population. Desperately, he searches for a place where the cult can’t get their hands on him, or more importantly, on the bioweapon they infected him with.
But when cornered by monsters born from the destruction, Benji is rescued by a group of teens from the local Acheson LGBTQ+ Center, affectionately known as the ALC. The ALC’s leader, Nick, is gorgeous, autistic, and a deadly shot, and he knows Benji’s darkest secret: the cult’s bioweapon is mutating him into a monster deadly enough to wipe humanity from the earth once and for all.
Still, Nick offers Benji shelter among his ragtag group of queer teens, as long as Benji can control the monster and use its power to defend the ALC. Eager to belong, Benji accepts Nick’s terms…until he discovers the ALC’s mysterious leader has a hidden agenda, and more than a few secrets of his own.
The One True Me and You
Author: Remi K. England
Dedication:
"For everyone who found themselves in fandom.
And for teen me.
Our struggle paved the way for the world in these pages.
We are happy. We are okay. We are powerful.
We are loved."
Summary: Up and coming fanfic author Kaylee Beaumont is internally screaming at the chance to finally meet her fandom friends in real life and spend a weekend at GreatCon. She also has a side quest for the weekend:
· Try out they/them pronouns to see how it feels
· Wear more masculine-presenting cosplay
· Kiss a girl for the first time
It’s…a lot, and Kay mostly wants to lie face down on the hotel floor. Especially when her hometown bully, Miss North Carolina, shows up in the very same hotel. But there’s this con-sponsored publishing contest, and the chance to meet her fandom idols…and then, there’s Teagan.
Pageant queen Teagan Miller (Miss Virginia) has her eye on the much-needed prize: the $25,000 scholarship awarded to the winner of the Miss Cosmic Teen USA pageant. She also has secrets:
· She loves the dresses but hates the tiaras
· She’s a giant nerd for everything GreatCon
· She’s gay af
If Teagan can just keep herself wrapped up tight for one more weekend, she can claim the scholarship and go off to college out and proud. If she’s caught, she could lose everything she’s worked for. If her rival, Miss North Carolina, has anything to do with it, that’s exactly how it’ll go down.
When Teagan and Kay bump into one another the first night, sparks fly. Their connection is intense―as is their shared enemy. If they’re spotted, the safe space of the con will be shattered, and all their secrets will follow them home. The risks are great…but could the reward of embracing their true selves be worth it?
Dedication:
"For everyone who found themselves in fandom.
And for teen me.
Our struggle paved the way for the world in these pages.
We are happy. We are okay. We are powerful.
We are loved."
Summary: Up and coming fanfic author Kaylee Beaumont is internally screaming at the chance to finally meet her fandom friends in real life and spend a weekend at GreatCon. She also has a side quest for the weekend:
· Try out they/them pronouns to see how it feels
· Wear more masculine-presenting cosplay
· Kiss a girl for the first time
It’s…a lot, and Kay mostly wants to lie face down on the hotel floor. Especially when her hometown bully, Miss North Carolina, shows up in the very same hotel. But there’s this con-sponsored publishing contest, and the chance to meet her fandom idols…and then, there’s Teagan.
Pageant queen Teagan Miller (Miss Virginia) has her eye on the much-needed prize: the $25,000 scholarship awarded to the winner of the Miss Cosmic Teen USA pageant. She also has secrets:
· She loves the dresses but hates the tiaras
· She’s a giant nerd for everything GreatCon
· She’s gay af
If Teagan can just keep herself wrapped up tight for one more weekend, she can claim the scholarship and go off to college out and proud. If she’s caught, she could lose everything she’s worked for. If her rival, Miss North Carolina, has anything to do with it, that’s exactly how it’ll go down.
When Teagan and Kay bump into one another the first night, sparks fly. Their connection is intense―as is their shared enemy. If they’re spotted, the safe space of the con will be shattered, and all their secrets will follow them home. The risks are great…but could the reward of embracing their true selves be worth it?
Just As You Are
Author: Camille Kellogg
Dedication:
"To everyone who's doubted if there's a happy ending out there for them."
Summary: Liz Baker and her three roommates work at the Nether Fields, a queer magazine in New York that’s on the verge of shutting down—until it’s bought at the last minute by two wealthy lesbians. Liz knows she’s lucky to still have a paycheck but it’s hard to feel grateful with minority investor Daria Fitzgerald slashing budgets, cancelling bagel Fridays, and password protecting the color printer to prevent “frivolous use.” When Liz overhears Daria scoffing at her listicles, she knows that it’s only a matter of time before her impulsive mouth gets herself fired. But as Liz and Daria wind up having to spend more and more time together, Liz starts to see a softer side to Daria—she’s funny, thoughtful, and likes the way Liz’s gender presentation varies between butch and femme. Despite the evidence that Liz can’t trust her, it’s hard to keep hating Daria—and even harder to resist the chemistry between them. This page-turning, sexy, and delightfully funny rom-com celebrates queer culture, chosen family, and falling in love against your better judgment.
Dedication:
"To everyone who's doubted if there's a happy ending out there for them."
Summary: Liz Baker and her three roommates work at the Nether Fields, a queer magazine in New York that’s on the verge of shutting down—until it’s bought at the last minute by two wealthy lesbians. Liz knows she’s lucky to still have a paycheck but it’s hard to feel grateful with minority investor Daria Fitzgerald slashing budgets, cancelling bagel Fridays, and password protecting the color printer to prevent “frivolous use.” When Liz overhears Daria scoffing at her listicles, she knows that it’s only a matter of time before her impulsive mouth gets herself fired. But as Liz and Daria wind up having to spend more and more time together, Liz starts to see a softer side to Daria—she’s funny, thoughtful, and likes the way Liz’s gender presentation varies between butch and femme. Despite the evidence that Liz can’t trust her, it’s hard to keep hating Daria—and even harder to resist the chemistry between them. This page-turning, sexy, and delightfully funny rom-com celebrates queer culture, chosen family, and falling in love against your better judgment.
Godly Heathens
Author: H.E. Edgmon
Dedication:
"For anyone worried you might be the villain in your own story. Maybe you are.
I think you deserve a happy ending, anyway."
Summary: Gem Echols is a nonbinary Seminole teen living in the tiny town of Gracie, Georgia. Known for being their peers’ queer awakening, Gem leans hard on charm to disguise the anxious mess they are beneath. The only person privy to their authentic self is another trans kid, Enzo, who’s a thousand long, painful miles away in Brooklyn.
But even Enzo doesn’t know about Gem’s dreams, haunting visions of magic and violence that have always felt too real. So how the hell does Willa Mae Hardy? The strange new girl in town acts like she and Gem are old companions, and seems to know things about them they’ve never told anyone else.
When Gem is attacked by a stranger claiming to be the Goddess of Death, Willa Mae saves their life and finally offers some answers. She and Gem are reincarnated gods who’ve known and loved each other across lifetimes. But Gem – or at least who Gem used to be - hasn’t always been the most benevolent deity. They’ve made a lot of enemies in the pantheon―enemies who, like the Goddess of Death, will keep coming.
It’s a good thing they’ve still got Enzo. But as worlds collide and the past catches up with the present, Gem will discover that everyone has something to hide.
Dedication:
"For anyone worried you might be the villain in your own story. Maybe you are.
I think you deserve a happy ending, anyway."
Summary: Gem Echols is a nonbinary Seminole teen living in the tiny town of Gracie, Georgia. Known for being their peers’ queer awakening, Gem leans hard on charm to disguise the anxious mess they are beneath. The only person privy to their authentic self is another trans kid, Enzo, who’s a thousand long, painful miles away in Brooklyn.
But even Enzo doesn’t know about Gem’s dreams, haunting visions of magic and violence that have always felt too real. So how the hell does Willa Mae Hardy? The strange new girl in town acts like she and Gem are old companions, and seems to know things about them they’ve never told anyone else.
When Gem is attacked by a stranger claiming to be the Goddess of Death, Willa Mae saves their life and finally offers some answers. She and Gem are reincarnated gods who’ve known and loved each other across lifetimes. But Gem – or at least who Gem used to be - hasn’t always been the most benevolent deity. They’ve made a lot of enemies in the pantheon―enemies who, like the Goddess of Death, will keep coming.
It’s a good thing they’ve still got Enzo. But as worlds collide and the past catches up with the present, Gem will discover that everyone has something to hide.
Bianca Torre is Afraid of Everything
Author: Justine Pucella Winans
Dedication:
"To all my queer readers:
whether you have known for years
or are just meeting yourself for the first time,
whether you are afraid of nothing or everything,
thank you for being you
and for taking a chance on me."
Summary: Sixteen-year-old Bianca Torre is an avid birder undergoing a gender identity crisis and grappling with an ever-growing list of fears. Some, like Fear #6: Initiating Conversation, keep them constrained, forcing them to watch birds from the telescope in their bedroom. And, occasionally, their neighbors. When their gaze wanders to one particular window across the street, Bianca witnesses a creepy plague-masked murderer take their neighbor’s life. Worse, the death is ruled a suicide, forcing Bianca to make a choice—succumb to their long list of fears (including #3 Murder and #55 Breaking into a Dead Guy’s Apartment), or investigate what happened.
Bianca enlists the help of their friend Anderson Coleman, but the two have more knowledge of anime than true crime. As Bianca and Anderson dig deeper into the murder with a little help from Bianca’s crush and fellow birding aficionado, Elaine Yee (#13 Beautiful People, #11 Parents Discovering They’re a Raging Lesbian), the trio uncover a conspiracy much larger—and weirder—than imagined. And when the killer catches wind of the investigation, suddenly Bianca’s #1 fear of public speaking doesn’t sound so bad compared to the threat of being silenced for good.
In this absurdist, darkly comical YA thriller that is a deceptively deep exploration of anxiety and identity, perhaps the real murder investigation is the friends we make along the way.
Dedication:
"To all my queer readers:
whether you have known for years
or are just meeting yourself for the first time,
whether you are afraid of nothing or everything,
thank you for being you
and for taking a chance on me."
Summary: Sixteen-year-old Bianca Torre is an avid birder undergoing a gender identity crisis and grappling with an ever-growing list of fears. Some, like Fear #6: Initiating Conversation, keep them constrained, forcing them to watch birds from the telescope in their bedroom. And, occasionally, their neighbors. When their gaze wanders to one particular window across the street, Bianca witnesses a creepy plague-masked murderer take their neighbor’s life. Worse, the death is ruled a suicide, forcing Bianca to make a choice—succumb to their long list of fears (including #3 Murder and #55 Breaking into a Dead Guy’s Apartment), or investigate what happened.
Bianca enlists the help of their friend Anderson Coleman, but the two have more knowledge of anime than true crime. As Bianca and Anderson dig deeper into the murder with a little help from Bianca’s crush and fellow birding aficionado, Elaine Yee (#13 Beautiful People, #11 Parents Discovering They’re a Raging Lesbian), the trio uncover a conspiracy much larger—and weirder—than imagined. And when the killer catches wind of the investigation, suddenly Bianca’s #1 fear of public speaking doesn’t sound so bad compared to the threat of being silenced for good.
In this absurdist, darkly comical YA thriller that is a deceptively deep exploration of anxiety and identity, perhaps the real murder investigation is the friends we make along the way.
Disclaimer: I am a bookshop.org affiliate and may earn a commision on books bought using the link on my page.
Interview with Deke Moulton, author of upcoming release DON'T WANT TO BE YOUR MONSTER
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Today's interview is with Deke Moulton (she/they) about their upcoming novel, Don't Want to Be Your Monster. I was honored to be able to do this interview because I've been itching for a chance to read this book since I first heard about it! It was an excellent read and I can't wait until it's released and everyone has a chance to dig into it.
In this interview we talked about the relationship between the brothers, what her publication process was like, and some of their plans when the book gets released. Information to follow them and preorder their book is included at the end of the interview! Let's go!
Monday, June 12, 2023
Interview with Dahlia Adler, author of upcoming novel GOING BICOASTAL
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Today's interviewee is none other than Dahlia Adler (she/her)! She is the author of several queer books including Home Field Advantage which I loved and upcoming book Going Bicoastal.
In this interview we talked about the research that went into Bicoastal, her favorite scenes, and what her writing process looks like.
Saturday, June 10, 2023
Interview with A.J. Sass, author of ANA ON THE EDGE and ELLEN OUTSIDE THE LINES
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Today's interviewee is one that I am thrilled to be able to introduce. AJ Sass (he/they) is an absolutely amazing author and a wonderfully sweet person! I've read all three of AJ Sass's books and I've loved each and every one of them! Something about their writing and their characters just speaks perfectly to me.
In this interview we talked about whether they plan out their books or pants them, their favorite scene in Ellen Outside the Lines, and what he likes to do when he's not writing. As always link to purchase his books and follow them on social media will be included below! Hope you enjoy!
Friday, June 9, 2023
Pride Month Book Recommendations
Here is a roundup of the first 9 days of queer book recommendations that I have! These are, mostly, books or authors that I've read and loved! The Goodreads page for the book is included and purchase links are attached to the covers if you want to buy the book yourself.
Day One
Title: Dragonfall
Author: L.R. Lam
Publication Date: May 2, 2023
Summary: Long-banished dragons, revered as gods, return to the mortal realm in the first in this magical new epic fantasy trilogy from a bestselling author.
Long ago, humans betrayed dragons, stealing their magic and banishing them to a dying world. Centuries later, their descendants worship dragons as gods. But the gods remember, and they do not forgive.
Thief Arcady scrapes a living on the streets of Vatra. Desperate, Arcady steals a powerful artifact from the bones of the Plaguebringer, the most hated person in Lumet history. Only Arcady knows the artifact's magic holds the key to a new life among the nobles at court and a chance for revenge.
The spell connects to Everen, the last male dragon foretold to save his kind, dragging him through the Veil. Disguised as a human, Everen soon learns that to regain his true power and form and fulfil his destiny, he only needs to convince one little thief to trust him enough to bond completely--body, mind, and soul--and then kill them.
Yet the closer the two become, the greater the risk both their worlds will shatter.
Author: L.R. Lam
Publication Date: May 2, 2023
Summary: Long-banished dragons, revered as gods, return to the mortal realm in the first in this magical new epic fantasy trilogy from a bestselling author.
Long ago, humans betrayed dragons, stealing their magic and banishing them to a dying world. Centuries later, their descendants worship dragons as gods. But the gods remember, and they do not forgive.
Thief Arcady scrapes a living on the streets of Vatra. Desperate, Arcady steals a powerful artifact from the bones of the Plaguebringer, the most hated person in Lumet history. Only Arcady knows the artifact's magic holds the key to a new life among the nobles at court and a chance for revenge.
The spell connects to Everen, the last male dragon foretold to save his kind, dragging him through the Veil. Disguised as a human, Everen soon learns that to regain his true power and form and fulfil his destiny, he only needs to convince one little thief to trust him enough to bond completely--body, mind, and soul--and then kill them.
Yet the closer the two become, the greater the risk both their worlds will shatter.
Day Two
Title: The Hills We Run From
Author: Ellis Mae
Publication Date: February 8, 2023
Summary: Edinburgh has always seemed like a magical place; with its rolling hills and towering abodes, everything seems possible. Perhaps, its just magical enough that Saatchi, illustrious marathon runner and notorious college student, can finally leave her past grievances beneath her thrumming feet. Even newcomer Emmylou, running away from an oppressive past, may be able to find exactly what she's been missing out on in from under her mother's heel. But, is it magic enough for the both of them? Or are they destined to trip before the finish line? Saatchi just wants to run. It's all she's ever known and it's all she's ever loved. The cobblestones of Edinburgh thrumming below her feet are her only peace of mind as she grieves her past self. But she's lost all of the freedom with the mounting pressure to make her once adored hobby a career. Emmylou is on the run. She's finally put herself first and decided to take a leap of faith that's led her to a country she's never even visited, all to escape a controlling mother. The problem is, she thought it'd be easy once she made that leap but, instead, it's only made her realize she's just as lost as before.
Author: Ellis Mae
Publication Date: February 8, 2023
Summary: Edinburgh has always seemed like a magical place; with its rolling hills and towering abodes, everything seems possible. Perhaps, its just magical enough that Saatchi, illustrious marathon runner and notorious college student, can finally leave her past grievances beneath her thrumming feet. Even newcomer Emmylou, running away from an oppressive past, may be able to find exactly what she's been missing out on in from under her mother's heel. But, is it magic enough for the both of them? Or are they destined to trip before the finish line? Saatchi just wants to run. It's all she's ever known and it's all she's ever loved. The cobblestones of Edinburgh thrumming below her feet are her only peace of mind as she grieves her past self. But she's lost all of the freedom with the mounting pressure to make her once adored hobby a career. Emmylou is on the run. She's finally put herself first and decided to take a leap of faith that's led her to a country she's never even visited, all to escape a controlling mother. The problem is, she thought it'd be easy once she made that leap but, instead, it's only made her realize she's just as lost as before.
Day Three
Title: They Ain't Proper
Author: MB Guel
Publication Date: May 18, 2023
Summary: 1880s, The Wild West.
An easy, solitary life on the outskirts of Ghosthallow is all Lou Ramirez wants. They want to buy their house plans and live their quiet life far from townsfolk’s prying eyes. That plan, however, hits a bump when instead of house plans, a house wife is delivered to their door instead.
Clementine Castellanos desperately needs a way out from under her family debt, and it seems as though selling her services as a wife is the only way to do it. Expecting a rough, harsh man to be her new husband, Clementine is pleasantly surprised to instead be dropped off at the ranch of an equally surprised Lou.
Lou would rather Clementine leave them to their lonely existence, but Clementine is too charmed by the quiet and mysterious rancher to give up. She may have come into Lou’s life easily, but she certainly isn’t planning to leave that way. Undeterred by Lou’s prickly demeanor, Clementine is determined to get her reluctant spouse to open up to her.
When the past comes back to haunt the pair, the fight for their independence—and their love—may become more deadly than either of them ever expected.
Author: MB Guel
Publication Date: May 18, 2023
Summary: 1880s, The Wild West.
An easy, solitary life on the outskirts of Ghosthallow is all Lou Ramirez wants. They want to buy their house plans and live their quiet life far from townsfolk’s prying eyes. That plan, however, hits a bump when instead of house plans, a house wife is delivered to their door instead.
Clementine Castellanos desperately needs a way out from under her family debt, and it seems as though selling her services as a wife is the only way to do it. Expecting a rough, harsh man to be her new husband, Clementine is pleasantly surprised to instead be dropped off at the ranch of an equally surprised Lou.
Lou would rather Clementine leave them to their lonely existence, but Clementine is too charmed by the quiet and mysterious rancher to give up. She may have come into Lou’s life easily, but she certainly isn’t planning to leave that way. Undeterred by Lou’s prickly demeanor, Clementine is determined to get her reluctant spouse to open up to her.
When the past comes back to haunt the pair, the fight for their independence—and their love—may become more deadly than either of them ever expected.
Day Four
Title: Breakthrough
Author: Kris Bryant
Publication Date: May 1, 2018
Summary: Kennedy Wells is desperate to get back her dream job writing for Mainstream, Waters Publishing’s celebrity magazine. She’s worked too hard over the years to have it snatched away because of one tiny indiscretion that ended with a giant lawsuit. After five months of writing mind-numbing articles about current events, her boss agrees to let her get back to reporting on the rich and famous after one last story.
A born and bred city girl, Kennedy is sent to cover fishing in Alaska, which has her feeling just like a fish out of water. When Brynn Coleman, director of Alaska’s Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary, comes to her rescue time after time, Kennedy can’t help but lower her guard and open herself up to Brynn’s standoffish charm. Falling for the sexy ranger is one thing, but is the possibility of love worth giving up a career she’s always dreamed of?
Author: Kris Bryant
Publication Date: May 1, 2018
Summary: Kennedy Wells is desperate to get back her dream job writing for Mainstream, Waters Publishing’s celebrity magazine. She’s worked too hard over the years to have it snatched away because of one tiny indiscretion that ended with a giant lawsuit. After five months of writing mind-numbing articles about current events, her boss agrees to let her get back to reporting on the rich and famous after one last story.
A born and bred city girl, Kennedy is sent to cover fishing in Alaska, which has her feeling just like a fish out of water. When Brynn Coleman, director of Alaska’s Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary, comes to her rescue time after time, Kennedy can’t help but lower her guard and open herself up to Brynn’s standoffish charm. Falling for the sexy ranger is one thing, but is the possibility of love worth giving up a career she’s always dreamed of?
Day Five
Title: LGBTQ Youth and Education
Author: Cris Mayo
Publication Date: December 13, 2013
Summary: Based on the diverse experiences of LGBTQ students and their allies, this essential volume brings together in one resource the major issues that schools must address to improve the educational outcomes for gender and sexual minority students--as well as all students. Many of these issues involve negative school-based experiences that teachers and administrators need to be aware of as they interact with students on a daily basis, including those that encourage dropping out, substance abuse, and disproportionate thoughts of suicide. This insightful work not only examines the challenges of discrimination, harassment, and alienation that LGBTQ youth face, but it also captures students' resilience and creativity in organizing against those challenges. The text includes teaching strategies, innovative projects, curricular revisions, and policy initiatives that have had positive effects on LGBTQ learning, aspirations, and school climate.
Book Features:
Offers a nuanced portrait of students, showing how issues of race, gender, gender identity, and class shape and complicate their experience. Examines the history and contemporary movements for LGBTQ rights. Describes a variety of discipline-based approaches to teaching students to think about LGBTQ-related concerns. Shows examples of youth organizing into extracurricular groups or creating school- and community-based interventions. Highlights the role of online communities and web-based resources.
Author: Cris Mayo
Publication Date: December 13, 2013
Summary: Based on the diverse experiences of LGBTQ students and their allies, this essential volume brings together in one resource the major issues that schools must address to improve the educational outcomes for gender and sexual minority students--as well as all students. Many of these issues involve negative school-based experiences that teachers and administrators need to be aware of as they interact with students on a daily basis, including those that encourage dropping out, substance abuse, and disproportionate thoughts of suicide. This insightful work not only examines the challenges of discrimination, harassment, and alienation that LGBTQ youth face, but it also captures students' resilience and creativity in organizing against those challenges. The text includes teaching strategies, innovative projects, curricular revisions, and policy initiatives that have had positive effects on LGBTQ learning, aspirations, and school climate.
Book Features:
Offers a nuanced portrait of students, showing how issues of race, gender, gender identity, and class shape and complicate their experience. Examines the history and contemporary movements for LGBTQ rights. Describes a variety of discipline-based approaches to teaching students to think about LGBTQ-related concerns. Shows examples of youth organizing into extracurricular groups or creating school- and community-based interventions. Highlights the role of online communities and web-based resources.
Day Six
Title: Backwards to Oregon
Author: Jae
Publication Date: January 1, 2007
Summary: “Luke” Hamilton has always been sure that she’d never marry. She accepted that she would spend her life alone when she chose to live her life disguised as a man.
After working in a brothel for three years, Nora Macauley has lost all illusions about love. She no longer hopes for a man who will sweep her off her feet and take her away to begin a new, respectable life.
But now they find themselves married and on the way to Oregon in a covered wagon, with two thousand miles ahead of them.
Author: Jae
Publication Date: January 1, 2007
Summary: “Luke” Hamilton has always been sure that she’d never marry. She accepted that she would spend her life alone when she chose to live her life disguised as a man.
After working in a brothel for three years, Nora Macauley has lost all illusions about love. She no longer hopes for a man who will sweep her off her feet and take her away to begin a new, respectable life.
But now they find themselves married and on the way to Oregon in a covered wagon, with two thousand miles ahead of them.
Day Seven
Title: Magical Boy Vol. 1
Author: The Kao
Publication Date: February 1, 2022
Summary: Although he was assigned female at birth, Max is your average trans man trying to get through high school as himself. But on top of classes, crushes, and coming out, Max's life is turned upside down when his mom reveals an eons old family secret: he's descended from a long line of Magical Girls tasked with defending humanity from a dark, ancient evil! With a sassy feline sidekick and loyal gang of friends by his side, can Max take on his destiny, save the world, and become the next Magical Boy? A hilarious and heartfelt riff on the magical girl genre made popular by teen manga series, Magical Boy is a one-of-a-kind fantasy series that comic readers of all ages will love.
Author: The Kao
Publication Date: February 1, 2022
Summary: Although he was assigned female at birth, Max is your average trans man trying to get through high school as himself. But on top of classes, crushes, and coming out, Max's life is turned upside down when his mom reveals an eons old family secret: he's descended from a long line of Magical Girls tasked with defending humanity from a dark, ancient evil! With a sassy feline sidekick and loyal gang of friends by his side, can Max take on his destiny, save the world, and become the next Magical Boy? A hilarious and heartfelt riff on the magical girl genre made popular by teen manga series, Magical Boy is a one-of-a-kind fantasy series that comic readers of all ages will love.
Day Eight
Title: Flamer
Author: Mike Curato
Publication Date: September 1, 2020
Summary: I know I’m not gay. Gay boys like other boys. I hate boys. They’re mean, and scary, and they’re always destroying something or saying something dumb or both.
I hate that word. Gay. It makes me feel . . . unsafe.
It's the summer between middle school and high school, and Aiden Navarro is away at camp. Everyone's going through changes—but for Aiden, the stakes feel higher. As he navigates friendships, deals with bullies, and spends time with Elias (a boy he can't stop thinking about), he finds himself on a path of self-discovery and acceptance.
Author: Mike Curato
Publication Date: September 1, 2020
Summary: I know I’m not gay. Gay boys like other boys. I hate boys. They’re mean, and scary, and they’re always destroying something or saying something dumb or both.
I hate that word. Gay. It makes me feel . . . unsafe.
It's the summer between middle school and high school, and Aiden Navarro is away at camp. Everyone's going through changes—but for Aiden, the stakes feel higher. As he navigates friendships, deals with bullies, and spends time with Elias (a boy he can't stop thinking about), he finds himself on a path of self-discovery and acceptance.
Day Nine
Title: Until I Love Myself, Vol. 1
Author: Poppy Pesuyama
Publication Date: June 20, 2023
Summary: A bravely blunt autobiography about confronting the tangled traumas of gender dysphoria and workplace sexual harassment.
Nonbinary manga artist Poppy Pesuyama is excited when forms offer the option to choose “neither” for gender and thrilled about their new job working as an assistant for mangaka X! But then he sexually harasses them, treating them first like a girl and then like something less than human. It only lasts a few months, but in some ways it never ends.
Born into a body they hate and still reeling from the abuse they faced seven years ago, Pesuyama begins to rail at their past, their friends, and even their mother as they try to come to terms with who they are and what happened to them.
Author: Poppy Pesuyama
Publication Date: June 20, 2023
Summary: A bravely blunt autobiography about confronting the tangled traumas of gender dysphoria and workplace sexual harassment.
Nonbinary manga artist Poppy Pesuyama is excited when forms offer the option to choose “neither” for gender and thrilled about their new job working as an assistant for mangaka X! But then he sexually harasses them, treating them first like a girl and then like something less than human. It only lasts a few months, but in some ways it never ends.
Born into a body they hate and still reeling from the abuse they faced seven years ago, Pesuyama begins to rail at their past, their friends, and even their mother as they try to come to terms with who they are and what happened to them.
If you like what I do, consider giving me a follow on social media or consider sharing or donating my GCLS GoFundMe. I appreciate any help or shares that I can get! Every little bit matters. Thank you for reading!!
Disclaimer: I am a bookshop.org affiliate and may earn a commision on books bought using the link on my page.
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