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Say Their Names: A World AIDS Day Charity Anthology
Say Their Names is an anthology of short stories about living and loving with HIV/AIDS by authors of gay romance. Proceeds from the sale of this anthology will be donated to The Names Project which oversees the preservation, maintenance, and display of the AIDS Quilt.
Featuring:
Solving the Puzzle by A.M. Arthur
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
Under My Skein by Lee Blair
And Then Came Bliss L.C. Chase
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon
Summer Fling by Aries France
To Be Bold by J.L. Gribble
A Friendly Prescription by AE Lister
Dawn by Evie McGlynn
My Uncle Charlie by Shane K. Morton
Worse Things by Breanna Rae
Phoenix by Marie Sinclair
Feels Different by Essie Sloane
Featuring:
Solving the Puzzle by A.M. Arthur
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
Under My Skein by Lee Blair
And Then Came Bliss L.C. Chase
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon
Summer Fling by Aries France
To Be Bold by J.L. Gribble
A Friendly Prescription by AE Lister
Dawn by Evie McGlynn
My Uncle Charlie by Shane K. Morton
Worse Things by Breanna Rae
Phoenix by Marie Sinclair
Feels Different by Essie Sloane
616 pages, Paperback
Published December 1, 2024
24 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
November 26, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
**rating based off the following stories**
Solving the Puzzle by AM Arthur
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reseller Atty finds himself with an abundance of old puzzles after purchasing a storage unit full of odds and ends. With no real clue what to do with them and not wanting to trash them, Atty hits up the local community center for their weekly Puzzle Swap.
There he meets Trace, who discovers that several of the puzzles Atty donated contain letters between Teddy and the mysterious 'X'. & as the pair sort through the remaining puzzles and connect over the one-sided correspondence, they find their own happy ending along the way.
Honestly, this story and these letters smacked me right in the feels with how beautiful and sad this was. & would have absolutely loved for this to have been longer or turned into a full length!
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
After gaining guardianship of his brother, and learning about his HIV+ diagnosis, Constantine goes from being working in a Michelin Star restaurant as a pastry chef to making sure his brother takes his meds and does his homework.
Needing to provide his brother with more stability and attention, Constantine packs them up and heads to Stillwater where he knows he can get a job baking at the local café.
Constantine's arrival is a bit serendipitous, as Julius's previous barista nearly burnt down his kitchen before quitting. The pair have an instant connection and work together well, and as things heat up as he and Julius grow closer.
I really liked Constantine and Julius, but felt like their chemistry was a bit lacking for me. Would have liked to seen more of that grown in the story, but otherwise really enjoyed it.
Summer Fling by Aries France
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An anonymous hookup with an older hottie turns not so anonymous when Jasper walks into his first day of his law internship and learns that the very man he blew the night before just so happens to be who he’ll be working alongside all summer.
Marshall Caffrey is THE export when it comes to AIDS and HIV advocacy and Jasper is willing to do anything to keep this internship, but it’s nearly impossible to stay professional as the chemistry between him and Marshall grows.
This was so freaking good!!! I wasn’t expecting to love this as much as I did, but this was perfect and even though it was short Marshall and Jasper’s story felt complete and I really felt their connection.
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As if being cheated on by his ex wasn’t enough, Austin learns he’s HIV+. Wanting to drown his sorrows and forget everything, he heads to a local gay bar where he meets Dallas. The two share the hottest, most unforgettable kiss, but Austin bolts before anything can happen.
Two years later reconnect after Dallas moves into the same building Austin lives in, and the chemistry between them is still palpable. Austin is terrified of their connection, but Dallas is more than patient.
The Kiss was such a beautiful story of learning to live with HIV, all the fear and heartache that comes with it, and learning to trust yourself and your partner.
**rating based off the following stories**
Solving the Puzzle by AM Arthur
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reseller Atty finds himself with an abundance of old puzzles after purchasing a storage unit full of odds and ends. With no real clue what to do with them and not wanting to trash them, Atty hits up the local community center for their weekly Puzzle Swap.
There he meets Trace, who discovers that several of the puzzles Atty donated contain letters between Teddy and the mysterious 'X'. & as the pair sort through the remaining puzzles and connect over the one-sided correspondence, they find their own happy ending along the way.
Honestly, this story and these letters smacked me right in the feels with how beautiful and sad this was. & would have absolutely loved for this to have been longer or turned into a full length!
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
After gaining guardianship of his brother, and learning about his HIV+ diagnosis, Constantine goes from being working in a Michelin Star restaurant as a pastry chef to making sure his brother takes his meds and does his homework.
Needing to provide his brother with more stability and attention, Constantine packs them up and heads to Stillwater where he knows he can get a job baking at the local café.
Constantine's arrival is a bit serendipitous, as Julius's previous barista nearly burnt down his kitchen before quitting. The pair have an instant connection and work together well, and as things heat up as he and Julius grow closer.
I really liked Constantine and Julius, but felt like their chemistry was a bit lacking for me. Would have liked to seen more of that grown in the story, but otherwise really enjoyed it.
Summer Fling by Aries France
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An anonymous hookup with an older hottie turns not so anonymous when Jasper walks into his first day of his law internship and learns that the very man he blew the night before just so happens to be who he’ll be working alongside all summer.
Marshall Caffrey is THE export when it comes to AIDS and HIV advocacy and Jasper is willing to do anything to keep this internship, but it’s nearly impossible to stay professional as the chemistry between him and Marshall grows.
This was so freaking good!!! I wasn’t expecting to love this as much as I did, but this was perfect and even though it was short Marshall and Jasper’s story felt complete and I really felt their connection.
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As if being cheated on by his ex wasn’t enough, Austin learns he’s HIV+. Wanting to drown his sorrows and forget everything, he heads to a local gay bar where he meets Dallas. The two share the hottest, most unforgettable kiss, but Austin bolts before anything can happen.
Two years later reconnect after Dallas moves into the same building Austin lives in, and the chemistry between them is still palpable. Austin is terrified of their connection, but Dallas is more than patient.
The Kiss was such a beautiful story of learning to live with HIV, all the fear and heartache that comes with it, and learning to trust yourself and your partner.
December 3, 2024
Say Their Names is a World AIDS Day charity anthology, and I was eager to dive into the short stories supporting the cause. While there were some familiar names in the anthology, most I had not read prior to jumping into this collection, making these short stories my introduction to the authors.
Solving the Puzzle by A.M. Arthur was a three-star rating. I will be honest and say that I was conflicted with this story. I adored the historic element as this hit all the emotions. The look into the past and the way it was handled at the end of this story was super emotional. However, I struggled to connect with the present-day story. I expected more emotion from that side of things, but it felt like the deeper connection was glossed over. There were also elements that felt a bit inconsistent and that they happened solely for the plot, which impacted upon my rating of the story.
Under My Skein by Lee Blair was a two-star rating. I will be honest and say that I really wanted to love this story as it touched upon so many important elements. Unfortunately, I really struggled with the writing style of this. There were points when there was so much repetition of things (even within paragraphs) that could have easily been edited out, which contrasted greatly with points when aspects I would have loved to see explored in more detail were not explored in full. As an academic myself, while reading about the academic lead grading papers, I had a thought of how this style reminded me of when I am grading papers. There was knowledge (in this case, an intriguing story), yet there were points when it was aiming for a word count (those parts in need of editing) and other points when knowledge was taken for granted (those elements that were not explored fully). The fact that I was able to make this comparison so easily impacted upon my rating, and why I ended up giving this story a two-star rating. The idea of the story was great, yet the way it was told missed the mark for me.
My Uncle Charlie by Shane K. Morton was a two-star rating. This is one of those cases where I think the style of the story impacted upon my enjoyment. There was power in the story, in the way the characters looked back at a life that was lost, yet I prefer stories where I get to watch the elements unfold. If I had felt more of a connection to the characters looking back, I probably would have rated this higher. However, the characters were supposed to be in their forties, yet they read like teenagers (the same was true of the older characters). While I am sure this will work for many, it pulled me out of the story and meant it missed the mark for me.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley is a novella in the Dads of Stillwater series and was a three-star rating. While it is clear where this story overlaps with the characters in the Dads of Stillwater series, it was possible to enjoy this story without any prior knowledge. It immediately pulls the reader in and has them falling rapidly for the characters. I fell hard for the characters and loved watching them together, but I found my rating was not as high as I’d hoped because there were points when cliches were thrown in and rapidly handled. I would have preferred either they were explored in full or they were not used, as the quick handling of them impacted upon my enjoyment. Despite this, it was a fun read that had me powering through it in no time.
Summer Fling by Aries France was a three-star rating. This was a story that clearly links in with other work from the author as there were nods toward elements that have clearly played out in other stories. Despite this, it was possible to enjoy the story without any knowledge of the other stories. Although I had fun with this story, my rating was impacted by the way the story kept providing details of what had previously happened rather than simply showing the scenes. The way the details were provided and then the story would return to the moment impacted upon my enjoyment, especially as it happened a lot. Although this did impact upon my enjoyment, I did had fun with the story and devoured it in no time.
A Friendly Prescription by AE Lister is a story that features characters from the author’s Paging Dr. Griffin series and was a three-star rating. While this was a story that I enjoyed and managed to understand without prior knowledge of the author’s work, I do feel it would have been enjoyed more if I had known the characters from the main story. In some ways, I think it may have been a four-star rating if I had known the characters with this a being bonus for me. As it was, as an introduction to the characters this was a lot of fun. It did not hit the emotional mark quite as hard as I had hoped, but I did enjoy watching the way the characters interacted and the way things played out. It certainly has me curious about the rest of the series.
Dawn by Evie McGlynn was a three-star rating. This was another story where there were clear links to other work from the author, but it was possible to enjoy it without any other knowledge of the world. It was another story that sucked me in with ease and had me falling hard for the characters, but I do feel things happened a little too quickly and easily. It made it feel like the characters changed their minds much sooner than they should have based upon what they said between chapters. I know it was a short story so it will feel quick, but I wish there had been a larger timeline discussed to make it more believable. Nevertheless, this was another read that had me hooked.
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon was a three-star rating. This was a story that had me hooked, and I really enjoyed watching things play out. While it did hit many of the necessary emotional points, I feel like this was another story where the timeline of events did not work out entirely for me. I felt like everything important was thrown into a single interaction, which happened far too easily. While it meant it hit the mark with certain elements, I do feel like it made things feel a bit rushed and overlooked the connection I had been hoping for. Despite this, I did enjoy this story.
Feels Different by Essie Sloane was a four-star rating. This was a story that hit hard and won me over with ease. This really stood out to me because it took a slightly different approach to the other stories, which meant it hit extra hard. It showed the side of things that felt too easy in some of the other stories, and I really enjoyed the way it looked at the emotional turmoil of a different type of interaction. While it did feel a little too sappy in the final chapter, it was not enough to lessen my enjoyment. This was easily one of my favourites within the collection.
Worst Things by Breanna Ripley writing as Breanna Rae was a four-star rating. I will be honest and admit this is a story where I rounded my rating up. It was easy to do so, and I feel like part of the reason why I did not feel it was quite a full four-star rating is because of how much I enjoyed the prior story. This was a story that hit the right spots in showing how sometimes it is enough just to have someone who is there, and I loved that about the story. It was a bit too sweet in some elements, but that was part of what made it such an addictive read. It certainly ticked the boxes in giving the intended message.
And Then Came Bliss by L.C. Chase was a three-star rating. This was another sweet story showing how someone appearing at the right time is often all that is needed. It certainly had me hooked and I enjoyed watching things come together, yet it is another story where I feel like it skipped over the elements that made me feel a deep connection between the characters. Although it did not hit the mark on the connection level, I did enjoy watching it come together.
To Be Bold by J.L. Gribble was a three-star rating. This was a story that had me conflicted as there were some elements that had me wanting to give a higher rating, thereby making this a rounded down three-point-five-star rating. The reason why I found myself rounding down in the end was because I felt like I was missing some elements in the story. There was a much bigger picture between the way all the characters were linked, and that extra depth I wanted never quite hit. Nevertheless, I did enjoy watching the way the story came together and would be curious to read more about all the characters introduced throughout. It is possible this is because the story is linked to something else by the author, although it was somewhat unclear, so I will be investigating this.
Phoenix by Marie Sinclair was a three-star rating. This was another story where there were clear links to other work from the author. While there were some aspects that I feel I would have enjoyed more if I had read other work by the author, it was not enough to lessen my enjoyment of this story. It was another example of people entering life at the right moment, and how it is often interactions we may not want that can have large impacts. Again, I wish there had been a bit more exploration of the connection between the characters, but it was a sweet read.
All in all, this was an enjoyable anthology. As with all collections, there were some stories I enjoyed more than others. I had two clear favourites with this, but I enjoyed the messages throughout the entire collection and happily continued to power my way through the pages. I will certainly be looking to read more of some of the authors and am crossing my fingers for more of these powerful anthologies.
Solving the Puzzle by A.M. Arthur was a three-star rating. I will be honest and say that I was conflicted with this story. I adored the historic element as this hit all the emotions. The look into the past and the way it was handled at the end of this story was super emotional. However, I struggled to connect with the present-day story. I expected more emotion from that side of things, but it felt like the deeper connection was glossed over. There were also elements that felt a bit inconsistent and that they happened solely for the plot, which impacted upon my rating of the story.
Under My Skein by Lee Blair was a two-star rating. I will be honest and say that I really wanted to love this story as it touched upon so many important elements. Unfortunately, I really struggled with the writing style of this. There were points when there was so much repetition of things (even within paragraphs) that could have easily been edited out, which contrasted greatly with points when aspects I would have loved to see explored in more detail were not explored in full. As an academic myself, while reading about the academic lead grading papers, I had a thought of how this style reminded me of when I am grading papers. There was knowledge (in this case, an intriguing story), yet there were points when it was aiming for a word count (those parts in need of editing) and other points when knowledge was taken for granted (those elements that were not explored fully). The fact that I was able to make this comparison so easily impacted upon my rating, and why I ended up giving this story a two-star rating. The idea of the story was great, yet the way it was told missed the mark for me.
My Uncle Charlie by Shane K. Morton was a two-star rating. This is one of those cases where I think the style of the story impacted upon my enjoyment. There was power in the story, in the way the characters looked back at a life that was lost, yet I prefer stories where I get to watch the elements unfold. If I had felt more of a connection to the characters looking back, I probably would have rated this higher. However, the characters were supposed to be in their forties, yet they read like teenagers (the same was true of the older characters). While I am sure this will work for many, it pulled me out of the story and meant it missed the mark for me.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley is a novella in the Dads of Stillwater series and was a three-star rating. While it is clear where this story overlaps with the characters in the Dads of Stillwater series, it was possible to enjoy this story without any prior knowledge. It immediately pulls the reader in and has them falling rapidly for the characters. I fell hard for the characters and loved watching them together, but I found my rating was not as high as I’d hoped because there were points when cliches were thrown in and rapidly handled. I would have preferred either they were explored in full or they were not used, as the quick handling of them impacted upon my enjoyment. Despite this, it was a fun read that had me powering through it in no time.
Summer Fling by Aries France was a three-star rating. This was a story that clearly links in with other work from the author as there were nods toward elements that have clearly played out in other stories. Despite this, it was possible to enjoy the story without any knowledge of the other stories. Although I had fun with this story, my rating was impacted by the way the story kept providing details of what had previously happened rather than simply showing the scenes. The way the details were provided and then the story would return to the moment impacted upon my enjoyment, especially as it happened a lot. Although this did impact upon my enjoyment, I did had fun with the story and devoured it in no time.
A Friendly Prescription by AE Lister is a story that features characters from the author’s Paging Dr. Griffin series and was a three-star rating. While this was a story that I enjoyed and managed to understand without prior knowledge of the author’s work, I do feel it would have been enjoyed more if I had known the characters from the main story. In some ways, I think it may have been a four-star rating if I had known the characters with this a being bonus for me. As it was, as an introduction to the characters this was a lot of fun. It did not hit the emotional mark quite as hard as I had hoped, but I did enjoy watching the way the characters interacted and the way things played out. It certainly has me curious about the rest of the series.
Dawn by Evie McGlynn was a three-star rating. This was another story where there were clear links to other work from the author, but it was possible to enjoy it without any other knowledge of the world. It was another story that sucked me in with ease and had me falling hard for the characters, but I do feel things happened a little too quickly and easily. It made it feel like the characters changed their minds much sooner than they should have based upon what they said between chapters. I know it was a short story so it will feel quick, but I wish there had been a larger timeline discussed to make it more believable. Nevertheless, this was another read that had me hooked.
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon was a three-star rating. This was a story that had me hooked, and I really enjoyed watching things play out. While it did hit many of the necessary emotional points, I feel like this was another story where the timeline of events did not work out entirely for me. I felt like everything important was thrown into a single interaction, which happened far too easily. While it meant it hit the mark with certain elements, I do feel like it made things feel a bit rushed and overlooked the connection I had been hoping for. Despite this, I did enjoy this story.
Feels Different by Essie Sloane was a four-star rating. This was a story that hit hard and won me over with ease. This really stood out to me because it took a slightly different approach to the other stories, which meant it hit extra hard. It showed the side of things that felt too easy in some of the other stories, and I really enjoyed the way it looked at the emotional turmoil of a different type of interaction. While it did feel a little too sappy in the final chapter, it was not enough to lessen my enjoyment. This was easily one of my favourites within the collection.
Worst Things by Breanna Ripley writing as Breanna Rae was a four-star rating. I will be honest and admit this is a story where I rounded my rating up. It was easy to do so, and I feel like part of the reason why I did not feel it was quite a full four-star rating is because of how much I enjoyed the prior story. This was a story that hit the right spots in showing how sometimes it is enough just to have someone who is there, and I loved that about the story. It was a bit too sweet in some elements, but that was part of what made it such an addictive read. It certainly ticked the boxes in giving the intended message.
And Then Came Bliss by L.C. Chase was a three-star rating. This was another sweet story showing how someone appearing at the right time is often all that is needed. It certainly had me hooked and I enjoyed watching things come together, yet it is another story where I feel like it skipped over the elements that made me feel a deep connection between the characters. Although it did not hit the mark on the connection level, I did enjoy watching it come together.
To Be Bold by J.L. Gribble was a three-star rating. This was a story that had me conflicted as there were some elements that had me wanting to give a higher rating, thereby making this a rounded down three-point-five-star rating. The reason why I found myself rounding down in the end was because I felt like I was missing some elements in the story. There was a much bigger picture between the way all the characters were linked, and that extra depth I wanted never quite hit. Nevertheless, I did enjoy watching the way the story came together and would be curious to read more about all the characters introduced throughout. It is possible this is because the story is linked to something else by the author, although it was somewhat unclear, so I will be investigating this.
Phoenix by Marie Sinclair was a three-star rating. This was another story where there were clear links to other work from the author. While there were some aspects that I feel I would have enjoyed more if I had read other work by the author, it was not enough to lessen my enjoyment of this story. It was another example of people entering life at the right moment, and how it is often interactions we may not want that can have large impacts. Again, I wish there had been a bit more exploration of the connection between the characters, but it was a sweet read.
All in all, this was an enjoyable anthology. As with all collections, there were some stories I enjoyed more than others. I had two clear favourites with this, but I enjoyed the messages throughout the entire collection and happily continued to power my way through the pages. I will certainly be looking to read more of some of the authors and am crossing my fingers for more of these powerful anthologies.
December 3, 2024
I am blown away by the few stories I have read so far. When I first heard about this book I know I wanted to read it. I remember the early 80s AIDS epidemic and the fear in everyone. I also remember the first quilt being shown and how powerful and beautiful it was. I also remember when people like Princess Diana were actively hugging patients even with the stigma that was following the HIV/AIDS virus. The following are the three stories I have read so far, but I will absolutely be reading the rest. And if you have the opportunity to see the quilt in person please do, it is truly amazing and moving
The Kiss by Courtney W Dixon
OMG this story what can you say. Austin is betrayed in the worst way and then has the most intense kiss with Dallas. Neither can stop thinking about the other. Years later they reconnect when Dallas moves into the same building. Dallas re-inspires Austin and they discover love.
A Friendly Presription AE Lister
featuring characters from Paging Dr Griffin have not read but will definitely. A scare, new friends, people living with the disease. This definitely had some kink in it. Main character only the scare of contracting but definitely a wake up.
Phoenix by Marie Sinclair
Max had love for years with the diagnosis even almost death, Marcella is just newly diagnosed. Can these two discover a connection beyond the attraction they feel towards each other. Max crawled back from a death quilt block and has built a life. Marcello is trying to build his trust again and rediscover his inner queen again.
This is an amazing anthology please give it a chance read it, support this cause and community. And remember education and love, not fear 🥰
The Kiss by Courtney W Dixon
OMG this story what can you say. Austin is betrayed in the worst way and then has the most intense kiss with Dallas. Neither can stop thinking about the other. Years later they reconnect when Dallas moves into the same building. Dallas re-inspires Austin and they discover love.
A Friendly Presription AE Lister
featuring characters from Paging Dr Griffin have not read but will definitely. A scare, new friends, people living with the disease. This definitely had some kink in it. Main character only the scare of contracting but definitely a wake up.
Phoenix by Marie Sinclair
Max had love for years with the diagnosis even almost death, Marcella is just newly diagnosed. Can these two discover a connection beyond the attraction they feel towards each other. Max crawled back from a death quilt block and has built a life. Marcello is trying to build his trust again and rediscover his inner queen again.
This is an amazing anthology please give it a chance read it, support this cause and community. And remember education and love, not fear 🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2024
Four stars.
I read Summer Fling by Aries France and really enjoyed the story and visiting our favorite ski town. lol
Jasper and Marshall meet by chance and then get a shock when they end up working together on a case of Marshall’s.
Not only did sparks fly but they work well together. Marshall got a second chance at love and found that in a younger Jasper. Jasper is too in class and going places. He fits right in on the case with Marshall. I’d love to see them settled and in the future.
Five stars
Bittersweet by Anna Ashley. Omg I loved Constantine and Julius. Their story just sucked me in and made me watch to drink coffee and eat pastries. I adored Leo and my heart ached for him for what he’s been through. I am so glad that Julius and Connie found each other as I can see a happy future as a family running Bittersweet. I would love to read more of them and the town.
I read Summer Fling by Aries France and really enjoyed the story and visiting our favorite ski town. lol
Jasper and Marshall meet by chance and then get a shock when they end up working together on a case of Marshall’s.
Not only did sparks fly but they work well together. Marshall got a second chance at love and found that in a younger Jasper. Jasper is too in class and going places. He fits right in on the case with Marshall. I’d love to see them settled and in the future.
Five stars
Bittersweet by Anna Ashley. Omg I loved Constantine and Julius. Their story just sucked me in and made me watch to drink coffee and eat pastries. I adored Leo and my heart ached for him for what he’s been through. I am so glad that Julius and Connie found each other as I can see a happy future as a family running Bittersweet. I would love to read more of them and the town.
December 1, 2024
This review focuses on six stories from this Anthology. Each tale is sensitively crafted with memorable characters, and easily had me invested in each story. I cannot recommend this Anthology highly enough.
‘Under My Skein’ by Lee Blair
This was a delightful story about Heath, who lost his Uncle to HIV/AIDS, and Ben, who helps him reclaim an unfinished crochet project started by Heath’s Uncle. These two men are lovely and instantly attracted when they meet. Their journey is heartwarming and filled with memories, emotions, and romance. Loved it.
‘Bittersweet’ by Ana Ashley
This is a sweet instant attraction story about coffee shop owner Julius and pastry chef Constantine, who has moved to Stillwater with his younger brother Leo, who has recently been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. I adored both these men as well as Leo, who’s struggling yet shows remarkable bravery. Their story was sweet and emotionl, and I loved it.
‘Summer Fling’ by Aries France
Returning to Bear Valley is a joy, especially with Jasper and Marshall’s age-gap love story. When Jasper arrives for a summer internship with Marshall, he discovers that Marshall is the anonymous man he met up with the previous night. What follows is a sweet story of fighting prejudice against HIV/AIDS while getting to know one another, and acknowledging there is a strong attraction between them. I loved every moment of it!
‘And Then Came Bliss’ by L.C. Chase
This instant attraction story is both emotional and heartwarming. Blair is the perfect person to support newly HIV-diagnosed Jake as he knows first-hand how he feels. I loved the compassion and understanding he provided, and how they fit so well together. Their story left me feeling full of hope.
‘Worse Things’ by Breanna Ripley written as Breanna Rae
This is a new author to me, and I’m glad I read her story. To me it was the most emotional of those I read in this Anthology and is about Brandon, who has just been diagnosed with HIV, and his last hook-up, Casey. The author dealt with the subject with care, and I loved how Casey was there for Brandon. An emotional and heartwarming read.
Phoenix by Marie Sinclair
In this age-gap story, Max, a long-time HIV/AIDS survivor, and Marcello, a younger man who has recently been diagnosed, share a heartwarming connection. Set within the author’s *Finding Forever* series, it was a welcome return to that world. I loved it
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to review this many stories but they were so involving that I found it hard to stop; I only did so because I ran out of time. .
‘Under My Skein’ by Lee Blair
This was a delightful story about Heath, who lost his Uncle to HIV/AIDS, and Ben, who helps him reclaim an unfinished crochet project started by Heath’s Uncle. These two men are lovely and instantly attracted when they meet. Their journey is heartwarming and filled with memories, emotions, and romance. Loved it.
‘Bittersweet’ by Ana Ashley
This is a sweet instant attraction story about coffee shop owner Julius and pastry chef Constantine, who has moved to Stillwater with his younger brother Leo, who has recently been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. I adored both these men as well as Leo, who’s struggling yet shows remarkable bravery. Their story was sweet and emotionl, and I loved it.
‘Summer Fling’ by Aries France
Returning to Bear Valley is a joy, especially with Jasper and Marshall’s age-gap love story. When Jasper arrives for a summer internship with Marshall, he discovers that Marshall is the anonymous man he met up with the previous night. What follows is a sweet story of fighting prejudice against HIV/AIDS while getting to know one another, and acknowledging there is a strong attraction between them. I loved every moment of it!
‘And Then Came Bliss’ by L.C. Chase
This instant attraction story is both emotional and heartwarming. Blair is the perfect person to support newly HIV-diagnosed Jake as he knows first-hand how he feels. I loved the compassion and understanding he provided, and how they fit so well together. Their story left me feeling full of hope.
‘Worse Things’ by Breanna Ripley written as Breanna Rae
This is a new author to me, and I’m glad I read her story. To me it was the most emotional of those I read in this Anthology and is about Brandon, who has just been diagnosed with HIV, and his last hook-up, Casey. The author dealt with the subject with care, and I loved how Casey was there for Brandon. An emotional and heartwarming read.
Phoenix by Marie Sinclair
In this age-gap story, Max, a long-time HIV/AIDS survivor, and Marcello, a younger man who has recently been diagnosed, share a heartwarming connection. Set within the author’s *Finding Forever* series, it was a welcome return to that world. I loved it
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to review this many stories but they were so involving that I found it hard to stop; I only did so because I ran out of time. .
December 4, 2024
What a fantastic collection of stories for such an emotional cause. I may only be four or five books in so far but there are a good mix of low angst, tough moments, families connecting, and reminiscing. I can't wait to read more and see what wonderful words these authors have written to give voice to what used to be a painful and life-taking disease but luckily now, with the help of medication can be undetectable.
Solving the Puzzle by AM Arthur
A sweet story looking back at a heartbreaking time through the eyes of another whilst looking forward to the possibility of something new between two men who are quite lonely. Atticus and Trace may not know each other for long but they come together and whilst getting to know each other, give an old man back a piece of his heart.
Under My Skein by Lee Blair
An emotional short story as two men come together to help finish a crochet project that Heath's uncle started for him before he passed away, and an ambulance linked him to Ben, an oncology nurse who is a crochet whizz. It's adorable, reading their time together, and heartwarming as their time together becomes something more but the scene where it all comes together tugs on the heartstrings.
My Uncle Charlie by Shane K Morton
It's bittersweet as Adam and his partner, Jackson, along with Mona, Adam's mum, visit The Quilt, and reminisce about Uncle Charlie. Charlie sounds like quite the character and it's fun hearing about him but heartbreaking to remember seeing him ill and his passing.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
Solving the Puzzle by AM Arthur
A sweet story looking back at a heartbreaking time through the eyes of another whilst looking forward to the possibility of something new between two men who are quite lonely. Atticus and Trace may not know each other for long but they come together and whilst getting to know each other, give an old man back a piece of his heart.
Under My Skein by Lee Blair
An emotional short story as two men come together to help finish a crochet project that Heath's uncle started for him before he passed away, and an ambulance linked him to Ben, an oncology nurse who is a crochet whizz. It's adorable, reading their time together, and heartwarming as their time together becomes something more but the scene where it all comes together tugs on the heartstrings.
My Uncle Charlie by Shane K Morton
It's bittersweet as Adam and his partner, Jackson, along with Mona, Adam's mum, visit The Quilt, and reminisce about Uncle Charlie. Charlie sounds like quite the character and it's fun hearing about him but heartbreaking to remember seeing him ill and his passing.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
December 12, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
World AIDS Day has been celebrated every year on December 1st since 1988, when the United Nations added it to their list of official global health campaigns. The day commemorates those who have died of the disease and highlights contemporary HIV/AIDS concerns and activity, with several years’ themes dedicated to addressing the stigma the disease still carries.
This anthology is a collection of 13 queer stories, each of which features some connection to HIV/AIDS. I sampled seven of the stories (and my rating is based on just those stories) and nearly all of them focus on the “finding someone and falling in love” stage of a romance novel. For me, this was very enjoyable, because it was one story after another that had strong good vibes I associate with new romance.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
World AIDS Day has been celebrated every year on December 1st since 1988, when the United Nations added it to their list of official global health campaigns. The day commemorates those who have died of the disease and highlights contemporary HIV/AIDS concerns and activity, with several years’ themes dedicated to addressing the stigma the disease still carries.
This anthology is a collection of 13 queer stories, each of which features some connection to HIV/AIDS. I sampled seven of the stories (and my rating is based on just those stories) and nearly all of them focus on the “finding someone and falling in love” stage of a romance novel. For me, this was very enjoyable, because it was one story after another that had strong good vibes I associate with new romance.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
December 1, 2024
This is a review for The Kiss by Courtney Dixon:
Austin has his heart ripped out and he is prepared to never let anyone in until the kiss. Fast-forward two years and he has a chance encounter with the recipient of the kiss. you’re not going to want to miss this heartfelt got wrenching healing story.
Austin has his heart ripped out and he is prepared to never let anyone in until the kiss. Fast-forward two years and he has a chance encounter with the recipient of the kiss. you’re not going to want to miss this heartfelt got wrenching healing story.
December 10, 2024
5 ⭐️
I just finished Breanna Rae (aka Breanna Ripley) “Worse Things” and I’m in awe…
B writes a portrait of a man who’s come to discover that he’s got HIV in a beautiful and sensitive way 💛 My heart aches and my eyes are teary, cause it’s such a heartfelt and emotional short 💛
I love Casey’s fearless personality, and how he doesn’t push. He’s simply just THERE! And that’s what people need sometimes, someone who’s just there!
I fell in love with Brandon from the start. This gentle soul, a bit broken from his past, but with so much love to give.
Short story? Yes, but I knew that going in. And B did an amazing job, as always 💛
4⭐️
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon
This was my first read by this author, and I really enjoyed it. Short stories can’t be easy to write, but this was a great one.
A story about how one kiss can change your life, and make you believe that love can happen to you.
No loose ends, and a great HEA.
I just finished Breanna Rae (aka Breanna Ripley) “Worse Things” and I’m in awe…
B writes a portrait of a man who’s come to discover that he’s got HIV in a beautiful and sensitive way 💛 My heart aches and my eyes are teary, cause it’s such a heartfelt and emotional short 💛
I love Casey’s fearless personality, and how he doesn’t push. He’s simply just THERE! And that’s what people need sometimes, someone who’s just there!
I fell in love with Brandon from the start. This gentle soul, a bit broken from his past, but with so much love to give.
Short story? Yes, but I knew that going in. And B did an amazing job, as always 💛
4⭐️
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon
This was my first read by this author, and I really enjoyed it. Short stories can’t be easy to write, but this was a great one.
A story about how one kiss can change your life, and make you believe that love can happen to you.
No loose ends, and a great HEA.
November 29, 2024
The Say Their Name Anthology by various authors are stories that include people that have HIV or Aids with proceeds benefitting The Names Project. I read Bittersweet by Ana Ashley and And Then Came Bliss by L. C. Chase.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
Bittersweet is the story of a coffee shop owner who is in desperate need of a baker and the pastry chef who asks him for a job and place to stay with his brother who has HIV. Julius owns Bittersweet coffee shop in Stillwater, Connecticut, where there are a lack of baristas and bakers. Just as his last baker leaves his kitchen in smoke Constantine Galanis shows up with his brother Leo, and bakes some delicious brownies. Leo has HIV and has spent the last year getting it under control and they have moved to Stillwater for a fresh start after their mother left them. Connie has worked in Michelin star restaurants around the world but is happy working there since Leo can go to school and have somewhat of a normal life. Connie hasn’t told anyone about Leo’s HIV because he doesn’t want it known but Kayleigh Nielsson, daughter of the lead singer of Hall of Fame, is in high school and since they learned about HIV/Aids wants to do a fundraise for it. Julius admires Connie for taking care of Leo and has been attracted to him from the start. But he is worried that he could leave for another job at any time so he is hesitant to act on it. However, the more they get to know each other Connie realizes that Julius makes him feel like he’s doing a good job with Leo and makes him feel safe and capable so they make love and discover they are made for each other. Leo also gets comfortable in the town and ends up being friends with Kay even though he revealed his secret to her. When Connie tells Julius his past he wants to help carry the load for Leo and be there for him. This leads to a hot love scene and then something occurs that makes Julius question what will happen with their relationship but luckily everything works out in the end. I really enjoyed this story. Julius and Connie are very caring men and want to do what is right for Leo and themselves. You really feel for what Leo is going through and are happy that his HIV load is 0 and that he is able to make friends in Stillwater, even though they know he is positive. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about men who are going through some very traumatic times but find solace in each other and are able to find love. 5 Stars
And Then Came Bliss by L. C. Chase
And Then Came Bliss by L. C. Chase is a short story about 2 men, both HIV positive, and how they help each other and form a relationship. Jake Sheraton has had a rough time with going through a divorce and then finding out he is HIV positive. He goes into Blair Blisset’s coffee shop, Bliss Beans, and is in total shock, not even realizing he is there. Blair recognizes what he is going through because he went through it too, 10 years ago. He also is very attracted to him but knows that Jake needs help before he can pursue him. So he offers that help which in turn starts Jake on the road to healing and even to the point that later they both help others the way Jake was helped. I really enjoyed this story. You feel what Jake is going through and experience his suffering. Blair is like a breath of fresh air and having been in his shoes is able to offer solace and help which is just what Jake needs. I was also happy that after 5 months they are together in a relationship, which is something Jake never thought he could have again, and that Jake is the one who is able to offer help to a new person who has just found out he is HIV positive. While there are no hot love scenes in this story you can still feel the love and caring the two men have for each other and that they want to help others. I highly recommend this story if you want to find out what it is like to discover that you have HIV, what you go through, that there is help available, and most importantly you can still find love. 5 stars
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
Bittersweet is the story of a coffee shop owner who is in desperate need of a baker and the pastry chef who asks him for a job and place to stay with his brother who has HIV. Julius owns Bittersweet coffee shop in Stillwater, Connecticut, where there are a lack of baristas and bakers. Just as his last baker leaves his kitchen in smoke Constantine Galanis shows up with his brother Leo, and bakes some delicious brownies. Leo has HIV and has spent the last year getting it under control and they have moved to Stillwater for a fresh start after their mother left them. Connie has worked in Michelin star restaurants around the world but is happy working there since Leo can go to school and have somewhat of a normal life. Connie hasn’t told anyone about Leo’s HIV because he doesn’t want it known but Kayleigh Nielsson, daughter of the lead singer of Hall of Fame, is in high school and since they learned about HIV/Aids wants to do a fundraise for it. Julius admires Connie for taking care of Leo and has been attracted to him from the start. But he is worried that he could leave for another job at any time so he is hesitant to act on it. However, the more they get to know each other Connie realizes that Julius makes him feel like he’s doing a good job with Leo and makes him feel safe and capable so they make love and discover they are made for each other. Leo also gets comfortable in the town and ends up being friends with Kay even though he revealed his secret to her. When Connie tells Julius his past he wants to help carry the load for Leo and be there for him. This leads to a hot love scene and then something occurs that makes Julius question what will happen with their relationship but luckily everything works out in the end. I really enjoyed this story. Julius and Connie are very caring men and want to do what is right for Leo and themselves. You really feel for what Leo is going through and are happy that his HIV load is 0 and that he is able to make friends in Stillwater, even though they know he is positive. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about men who are going through some very traumatic times but find solace in each other and are able to find love. 5 Stars
And Then Came Bliss by L. C. Chase
And Then Came Bliss by L. C. Chase is a short story about 2 men, both HIV positive, and how they help each other and form a relationship. Jake Sheraton has had a rough time with going through a divorce and then finding out he is HIV positive. He goes into Blair Blisset’s coffee shop, Bliss Beans, and is in total shock, not even realizing he is there. Blair recognizes what he is going through because he went through it too, 10 years ago. He also is very attracted to him but knows that Jake needs help before he can pursue him. So he offers that help which in turn starts Jake on the road to healing and even to the point that later they both help others the way Jake was helped. I really enjoyed this story. You feel what Jake is going through and experience his suffering. Blair is like a breath of fresh air and having been in his shoes is able to offer solace and help which is just what Jake needs. I was also happy that after 5 months they are together in a relationship, which is something Jake never thought he could have again, and that Jake is the one who is able to offer help to a new person who has just found out he is HIV positive. While there are no hot love scenes in this story you can still feel the love and caring the two men have for each other and that they want to help others. I highly recommend this story if you want to find out what it is like to discover that you have HIV, what you go through, that there is help available, and most importantly you can still find love. 5 stars
December 3, 2024
4.75 stars!
UNDER MY SKEIN - Lee Blair - This one was so sweet! When Heath learned about an afghan his uncle had been working on for him but hadn’t finished when he passed due to AIDS, he reached out to a volunteer program he heard about called Patchwork Projects. It was an organization in which volunteers were matched with a family member and they would complete the project for the family in honor of their lost loved one.
Heath was matched with Ben, a volunteer for the nonprofit as well as a full time oncology nurse and, as he worked on the afghan and they shared bits about their lives, they slowly fell in love.
This, like all the books in the anthology, was super short but I absolutely loved how they were together and how Ben was determined to teach Heath how to crochet so that his afghan would have a little bit of him in it along with all the love his uncle had put in. So sweet!! 5 stars!
MY UNCLE CHARLIE - Shane Morton - This one made me cry a little bit. Adam’s Uncle Charlie had died of AIDS when Adam was 7 years old. He had never known what had happened to him and it was never discussed by his mother. When he finally found out, on the day his uncle’s quilt square, made by family and friends, was to be joined with some of the other squares for the AIDS memorial quilt, he was heartbroken and embarrassed.
Realizing in his forties how self absorbed he’d been all his life not to have questioned, even once, what had happened to his beloved uncle, Adam was ashamed that he had been so self centered. Suddenly it was imperative that he find out more, not only about his uncle but also about the history of that time that allowed so many men to die due to a lack of medical knowledge.
This one was sad and extremely touching but I hate to say, it wasn’t my favorite. 4 stars!
BITTERSWEET - Ana Ashley - Julius, a side character in the author’s Dads of Stillwater series and the owner of the local coffee shop was in dire need of an assistant after the most recent one almost set the kitchen on fire (making TOAST!) when a gorgeous younger man promised to make the best brownies Julius had ever tasted in hopes of securing a job with accommodations.
If there was anything Constantine knew, it was baking. As an accomplished pastry chef he knew he could do it blindfolded. It wasn’t himself he was worried about, it was his fourteen year old brother Leo who had HIV; something he’d contracted from a blood transfusion following an injury from a vehicle accident.
As a young teen, Leo was terrified of other people finding out, how they would react and if he would ever be able to have a personal relationship with anyone.
Constantine proved to be a wonderful parental figure aided by Julius who cared for and supported him in everything. Perhaps the most helpful thing for Leo was a fundraiser by his classmates to bring awareness to the small town about the facts of HIV-AIDS.
This was such a good story; Constantine was a loving older brother, willing to do anything to protect and care for his little brother and though Julius was blindsided with the news, he never wavered in his love and support for Constantine and Leo. 5 stars!
THE KISS - Courtney Dixon - Austin, one of the MCs, was a talented artist and in a committed relationship with the love of his life. Right up until the aforementioned “love” shattered his heart by telling him he’d been seeing someone new and that he was leaving.
To make matters even worse, when his doctor called with news about a positive HIV test, Austin was understandably devastated at the thought that his life was over.
In an effort to forget for a little while, he headed to his favorite bar with the intention of getting out-of-his-head drunk. Instead, a beautiful kiss with a handsome stranger had him running away when he was hit with the reminder of what his boyfriend had done, unwilling to do to this man what his boyfriend had done to him and afraid he’d never be able to trust again.
I LOVED this book and I loved Dallas for his unselfish feelings for Austin, he was the perfect hero! 5 stars!!
UNDER MY SKEIN - Lee Blair - This one was so sweet! When Heath learned about an afghan his uncle had been working on for him but hadn’t finished when he passed due to AIDS, he reached out to a volunteer program he heard about called Patchwork Projects. It was an organization in which volunteers were matched with a family member and they would complete the project for the family in honor of their lost loved one.
Heath was matched with Ben, a volunteer for the nonprofit as well as a full time oncology nurse and, as he worked on the afghan and they shared bits about their lives, they slowly fell in love.
This, like all the books in the anthology, was super short but I absolutely loved how they were together and how Ben was determined to teach Heath how to crochet so that his afghan would have a little bit of him in it along with all the love his uncle had put in. So sweet!! 5 stars!
MY UNCLE CHARLIE - Shane Morton - This one made me cry a little bit. Adam’s Uncle Charlie had died of AIDS when Adam was 7 years old. He had never known what had happened to him and it was never discussed by his mother. When he finally found out, on the day his uncle’s quilt square, made by family and friends, was to be joined with some of the other squares for the AIDS memorial quilt, he was heartbroken and embarrassed.
Realizing in his forties how self absorbed he’d been all his life not to have questioned, even once, what had happened to his beloved uncle, Adam was ashamed that he had been so self centered. Suddenly it was imperative that he find out more, not only about his uncle but also about the history of that time that allowed so many men to die due to a lack of medical knowledge.
This one was sad and extremely touching but I hate to say, it wasn’t my favorite. 4 stars!
BITTERSWEET - Ana Ashley - Julius, a side character in the author’s Dads of Stillwater series and the owner of the local coffee shop was in dire need of an assistant after the most recent one almost set the kitchen on fire (making TOAST!) when a gorgeous younger man promised to make the best brownies Julius had ever tasted in hopes of securing a job with accommodations.
If there was anything Constantine knew, it was baking. As an accomplished pastry chef he knew he could do it blindfolded. It wasn’t himself he was worried about, it was his fourteen year old brother Leo who had HIV; something he’d contracted from a blood transfusion following an injury from a vehicle accident.
As a young teen, Leo was terrified of other people finding out, how they would react and if he would ever be able to have a personal relationship with anyone.
Constantine proved to be a wonderful parental figure aided by Julius who cared for and supported him in everything. Perhaps the most helpful thing for Leo was a fundraiser by his classmates to bring awareness to the small town about the facts of HIV-AIDS.
This was such a good story; Constantine was a loving older brother, willing to do anything to protect and care for his little brother and though Julius was blindsided with the news, he never wavered in his love and support for Constantine and Leo. 5 stars!
THE KISS - Courtney Dixon - Austin, one of the MCs, was a talented artist and in a committed relationship with the love of his life. Right up until the aforementioned “love” shattered his heart by telling him he’d been seeing someone new and that he was leaving.
To make matters even worse, when his doctor called with news about a positive HIV test, Austin was understandably devastated at the thought that his life was over.
In an effort to forget for a little while, he headed to his favorite bar with the intention of getting out-of-his-head drunk. Instead, a beautiful kiss with a handsome stranger had him running away when he was hit with the reminder of what his boyfriend had done, unwilling to do to this man what his boyfriend had done to him and afraid he’d never be able to trust again.
I LOVED this book and I loved Dallas for his unselfish feelings for Austin, he was the perfect hero! 5 stars!!
December 7, 2024
I chose two of the stories from favorite authors to read and review:
“The Kiss” by Courtney W. Dixon
The story finds Austin, devastated after being cheated on by his boyfriend, reeling from a call from his doctor notifying him he is HIV positive. Unable to process this news, he heads out with the aim of getting drunk and forgetting it all, but he sees a handsome man and prepares to hook up, shares a mind blowing kiss with him, then ashamed, flees into the night—but the kiss lives on in his memory.
Two years later, Dallas has not forgotten the kiss either. He tried to find Austin, but finally gave up, and is astonished to run into him in his own building. Trying to reconnect, Austin shares his HIV diagnosis with Dallas. But Dallas doesn’t care, he wants more of those kisses. As the two draw closer and get to know each other, a future is suddenly possible for both.
A tender, positive story of coming back from betrayal through therapy and the love of a good man who never gave up. The portrayal of Austin’s feelings and the shame he feels for something not his fault, then the support, care and compassion from Dallas that gives him hope and the desire to live a full life again is an uplifting message, positive today with all the strides made to make this disease not the death sentence it once was.
“Phoenix” by Mari Sinclair
When Max finds himself at the Youth Center ready to talk about living with AIDS, the panel he made for himself 30 years ago for the AIDS Quilt hangs behind him. He was near death, but through some miracle he was still here while many of his friends from those days were not. When he notices a young man at the back of the room, he instinctively knows this man is recently diagnosed and going through all of the uncertainty and questions that go along with a diagnosis today. Both men figure they are not likely to find love, Max because he is older than most AIDS survivors, and Marcello because he can’t trust anymore. The two hit it off as Marcello asks Max further questions about living with AIDS, and an attraction grows. Is it possible that there might be love in store for them?
Even though great strides have been made today, I believe many of the same insecurities, fears and questions from the early time of AIDS are common to those diagnosed today. Marcello’s thoughts and feelings felt true to me, even though I have never knowingly met someone with AIDS to have asked about their reactions at the time. I would imagine the fear of never having someone to love, or the fear of being alone the rest of your life would be depressing and devastating, but very possibly realistic, especially when recently diagnosed. There was a feeling of positivity in the story for the future for those diagnosed today due to the better education, medical advances, and more acceptance of those living with the disease than in the decades before. There is hope for a life as “normal” as possible.
The overall feeling for me of these two stories was one of love and hope, and the same chances for a positive future for those diagnosed with AIDS as for anyone else. I look forward to reading more of the stories when I have an hour or so of time available that isn’t part of a longer book to catch a bit of that uplifting vibe.
I received an advance copy of this anthology and this is my voluntary review.
“The Kiss” by Courtney W. Dixon
The story finds Austin, devastated after being cheated on by his boyfriend, reeling from a call from his doctor notifying him he is HIV positive. Unable to process this news, he heads out with the aim of getting drunk and forgetting it all, but he sees a handsome man and prepares to hook up, shares a mind blowing kiss with him, then ashamed, flees into the night—but the kiss lives on in his memory.
Two years later, Dallas has not forgotten the kiss either. He tried to find Austin, but finally gave up, and is astonished to run into him in his own building. Trying to reconnect, Austin shares his HIV diagnosis with Dallas. But Dallas doesn’t care, he wants more of those kisses. As the two draw closer and get to know each other, a future is suddenly possible for both.
A tender, positive story of coming back from betrayal through therapy and the love of a good man who never gave up. The portrayal of Austin’s feelings and the shame he feels for something not his fault, then the support, care and compassion from Dallas that gives him hope and the desire to live a full life again is an uplifting message, positive today with all the strides made to make this disease not the death sentence it once was.
“Phoenix” by Mari Sinclair
When Max finds himself at the Youth Center ready to talk about living with AIDS, the panel he made for himself 30 years ago for the AIDS Quilt hangs behind him. He was near death, but through some miracle he was still here while many of his friends from those days were not. When he notices a young man at the back of the room, he instinctively knows this man is recently diagnosed and going through all of the uncertainty and questions that go along with a diagnosis today. Both men figure they are not likely to find love, Max because he is older than most AIDS survivors, and Marcello because he can’t trust anymore. The two hit it off as Marcello asks Max further questions about living with AIDS, and an attraction grows. Is it possible that there might be love in store for them?
Even though great strides have been made today, I believe many of the same insecurities, fears and questions from the early time of AIDS are common to those diagnosed today. Marcello’s thoughts and feelings felt true to me, even though I have never knowingly met someone with AIDS to have asked about their reactions at the time. I would imagine the fear of never having someone to love, or the fear of being alone the rest of your life would be depressing and devastating, but very possibly realistic, especially when recently diagnosed. There was a feeling of positivity in the story for the future for those diagnosed today due to the better education, medical advances, and more acceptance of those living with the disease than in the decades before. There is hope for a life as “normal” as possible.
The overall feeling for me of these two stories was one of love and hope, and the same chances for a positive future for those diagnosed with AIDS as for anyone else. I look forward to reading more of the stories when I have an hour or so of time available that isn’t part of a longer book to catch a bit of that uplifting vibe.
I received an advance copy of this anthology and this is my voluntary review.
December 2, 2024
When this anthology was announced, I made a note that I wanted to buy it and read it. Then I was invited by several authors to read advanced copies of their stories, which I gladly did.
I am not sure how much they benefited, though, because it's taken a bit for me to be able to write this review. It brought back memories of a friend from high school and college who died from AIDS in the 90s at just 33 years old. His name isn't on the AIDS quilt, but it is still in my heart.
While these stories are filled with hope, they still took me back to the days when an HIV diagnosis was quite literally a death sentence for most people. I'm grateful that's no longer the case.
The stories I read, in the order they appear:
Ana Ashley - Bittersweet
I adored this story about a pastry chef who shows up to save the day at a small-town coffee shop along with his HIV-positive younger brother. It's everything a small-town romance should be, with the poignant reminder that it's the virus does not discriminate based on age or sexual orientation. It's part of her Dads of Stillwater universe, which I have not read, but have added to my TBR.
Evie McGlynn - Dawn
Set in her Down the Shore universe where found family rules, this is the story of a man whose husband died of AIDS and a nurse practitioner. Cameos from her other books are like visiting with old friends, but if you've not read her work, this is a good place to start.
Breanna Rae (aka B. Ripley) - Worse Things
So glad to have a fresh B. story! This one features a hookup-to-love scenario when a guy gets diagnosed with HIV and has to tell his hookup about it. Instead of turning away, the hookup befriends the lonely young man and their feelings for each other grow. It's sweet and heartwarming, and I really wanted more.
J.L. Gribble - To Be Bold
When a recent hookup shows up as a candidate for a clinical trial, the interviewing doctor ends up recusing himself from the process, but not from the candidate. Set in the world of non-combat military featured in both of J.L.'s previous MM contemporary publications, this age-gap romance sizzles and left me wanting more.
Marie Sinclair - Phoenix
Marie's story pairs an older man living with HIV with a younger one recently diagnosed. They meet through the youth center featured prominently in her Finding Forever series. Seeing the characters from A Kind of Forever warmed my heart, but you can easily read this story without having read those books. Like most of her stories, the city of San Francisco is as much a character as any of the two-leggeds, and I felt like I'd gone back for a visit.
Overall, I highly recommend this anthology centered around the disease that stole so many young lives. They're poignant and emotional stories, but they also focus on living life to the fullest.
I am not sure how much they benefited, though, because it's taken a bit for me to be able to write this review. It brought back memories of a friend from high school and college who died from AIDS in the 90s at just 33 years old. His name isn't on the AIDS quilt, but it is still in my heart.
While these stories are filled with hope, they still took me back to the days when an HIV diagnosis was quite literally a death sentence for most people. I'm grateful that's no longer the case.
The stories I read, in the order they appear:
Ana Ashley - Bittersweet
I adored this story about a pastry chef who shows up to save the day at a small-town coffee shop along with his HIV-positive younger brother. It's everything a small-town romance should be, with the poignant reminder that it's the virus does not discriminate based on age or sexual orientation. It's part of her Dads of Stillwater universe, which I have not read, but have added to my TBR.
Evie McGlynn - Dawn
Set in her Down the Shore universe where found family rules, this is the story of a man whose husband died of AIDS and a nurse practitioner. Cameos from her other books are like visiting with old friends, but if you've not read her work, this is a good place to start.
Breanna Rae (aka B. Ripley) - Worse Things
So glad to have a fresh B. story! This one features a hookup-to-love scenario when a guy gets diagnosed with HIV and has to tell his hookup about it. Instead of turning away, the hookup befriends the lonely young man and their feelings for each other grow. It's sweet and heartwarming, and I really wanted more.
J.L. Gribble - To Be Bold
When a recent hookup shows up as a candidate for a clinical trial, the interviewing doctor ends up recusing himself from the process, but not from the candidate. Set in the world of non-combat military featured in both of J.L.'s previous MM contemporary publications, this age-gap romance sizzles and left me wanting more.
Marie Sinclair - Phoenix
Marie's story pairs an older man living with HIV with a younger one recently diagnosed. They meet through the youth center featured prominently in her Finding Forever series. Seeing the characters from A Kind of Forever warmed my heart, but you can easily read this story without having read those books. Like most of her stories, the city of San Francisco is as much a character as any of the two-leggeds, and I felt like I'd gone back for a visit.
Overall, I highly recommend this anthology centered around the disease that stole so many young lives. They're poignant and emotional stories, but they also focus on living life to the fullest.
December 4, 2024
Say Their Names is a World AIDS Day charity anthology, and I'm all for supporting a great cause. I was familiar with some of the authors and some new to me so I decided to pick my top three to give a short review.
Solving the Puzzle by A.M. Arthur is the story of Atty, sort of a storage unit buyer, one which was filled with puzzles. Not wanting to just toss, he takes them to a local community center where he meets Trace. They connect after discovering messages or letters between an individual named Teddy and "X". I'd like to think that the spirit of Teddy brought Atty and Trace closer and thus getting their HEA. This story was very sweet, I enjoy stories from AM Arthur, this author always hits me in the feels.
The Kiss by Courtney Dixon is the story of Austin, who was cheated on by his ex and has learned that he is HIV positive. Courtney Dixon is a fairly new to me author and this story slaps, in a very good way! Fast forward to Austin, going to a gay bar to drown in booze, meets Dallas. They share a passionate kiss but Austin runs scared. Two years later they reconnect after Dallas moves into the same building Austin lives in. Fate!? Love this kind of plot, keeps the story interesting. So Dallas and Austin reconnect and sure enough, the chemistry they shared in that kiss two years ago, is still there but Ausin's positive status is keeping him from moving forward but sweet and patient Dallas, is more than happy to wait until Austin is ready. The Kiss was everything you can ever hope for in a story about a guy who was wronged and must live with the betrayal but learning to love again because guys like Dallas are out there. It's a beautiful story and I wish this could turn into a series or such.
My Uncle Charlie by Shane Morton is a new to me author and this story will definitely make you cry, if you're like me or at least teary eyed. The story is Adam, and his Uncle Charlie who had died of Aids when Adam was a little boy and the aftermath to family secrets resurfacing to lack of medical knowledge back then. I hate to say that this wasn't my favorite, I think the author was making Adam as a self centered character but is redeemable by finding out everything about his uncle and his life living with Aids. This one was hard to finish.
All in all, four stars for this anthology for a great cause! Happy reading all!
Solving the Puzzle by A.M. Arthur is the story of Atty, sort of a storage unit buyer, one which was filled with puzzles. Not wanting to just toss, he takes them to a local community center where he meets Trace. They connect after discovering messages or letters between an individual named Teddy and "X". I'd like to think that the spirit of Teddy brought Atty and Trace closer and thus getting their HEA. This story was very sweet, I enjoy stories from AM Arthur, this author always hits me in the feels.
The Kiss by Courtney Dixon is the story of Austin, who was cheated on by his ex and has learned that he is HIV positive. Courtney Dixon is a fairly new to me author and this story slaps, in a very good way! Fast forward to Austin, going to a gay bar to drown in booze, meets Dallas. They share a passionate kiss but Austin runs scared. Two years later they reconnect after Dallas moves into the same building Austin lives in. Fate!? Love this kind of plot, keeps the story interesting. So Dallas and Austin reconnect and sure enough, the chemistry they shared in that kiss two years ago, is still there but Ausin's positive status is keeping him from moving forward but sweet and patient Dallas, is more than happy to wait until Austin is ready. The Kiss was everything you can ever hope for in a story about a guy who was wronged and must live with the betrayal but learning to love again because guys like Dallas are out there. It's a beautiful story and I wish this could turn into a series or such.
My Uncle Charlie by Shane Morton is a new to me author and this story will definitely make you cry, if you're like me or at least teary eyed. The story is Adam, and his Uncle Charlie who had died of Aids when Adam was a little boy and the aftermath to family secrets resurfacing to lack of medical knowledge back then. I hate to say that this wasn't my favorite, I think the author was making Adam as a self centered character but is redeemable by finding out everything about his uncle and his life living with Aids. This one was hard to finish.
All in all, four stars for this anthology for a great cause! Happy reading all!
December 5, 2024
This is an amazing collection from a talented group of authors. The subject matter is delicate and important, and these authors have done an incredible job of bringing the different realities of dealing with HIV/AIDS to life. I applaud their effort and time spent with this anthology.
Solving the Puzzle - A.M. Arthur - 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Atticus & Trace
As beautiful as it was heartbreaking, this story really gives us a glimpse of the realities of the AIDS crisis in the 80s. As mentioned in the story, the hate and ignorance of so many cost thousands of people their lives and the connections to their families. It's maddening and incredibly sad.
Under My Skein - Lee Blair - 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heath & Ben
A super sweet match-up to complete a crochet project for an uncle that had passed from AIDS decades earlier. A really nice story of love, coincidence and hobby art. I loved every little bit of this short story.
My Uncle Charlie - Shane K. Morton - 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Adam & Jackson
Established couple. Adam learning about his beloved uncle who passed from AIDS when he was young. Discovering all that he didn't know about him, and wishing he had. He was given the opportunity to see the quilt dedicated to his uncle locally, included in the giant memorial for those that passed. Very sweet and heartbreaking, but the story ends happier with knowing more about the man he was.
Bittersweet - Ana Ashley - 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Julius & Constantine
A different take as a story with a teenage younger brother who is living with undetectable HIV. Still a sweet and understanding romance, and the bond between the brothers grows ever stronger. I hate that we don't know how Leo contracted the virus, but I am impressed with his level of strength and perseverance. It's clear that he and Constantine are now living in the best and more supportive place possible, beyond Constantine and Julius' relationship.
More stories I will rate as I go!
Summer Fling - Aries France
A Friendly Prescription - AE Lister
Dawn - Evie McGlynn
The Kiss - Courtney W. Dixon
Feels Different - Essie Sloane
Worse Things - Breanna Rae/Breanna Ripley
And Then Came Bliss - L.C. Chase
To Be Bold - J.L. Gribble
Phoenix - Marie Sinclair
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
Solving the Puzzle - A.M. Arthur - 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Atticus & Trace
As beautiful as it was heartbreaking, this story really gives us a glimpse of the realities of the AIDS crisis in the 80s. As mentioned in the story, the hate and ignorance of so many cost thousands of people their lives and the connections to their families. It's maddening and incredibly sad.
Under My Skein - Lee Blair - 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heath & Ben
A super sweet match-up to complete a crochet project for an uncle that had passed from AIDS decades earlier. A really nice story of love, coincidence and hobby art. I loved every little bit of this short story.
My Uncle Charlie - Shane K. Morton - 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Adam & Jackson
Established couple. Adam learning about his beloved uncle who passed from AIDS when he was young. Discovering all that he didn't know about him, and wishing he had. He was given the opportunity to see the quilt dedicated to his uncle locally, included in the giant memorial for those that passed. Very sweet and heartbreaking, but the story ends happier with knowing more about the man he was.
Bittersweet - Ana Ashley - 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Julius & Constantine
A different take as a story with a teenage younger brother who is living with undetectable HIV. Still a sweet and understanding romance, and the bond between the brothers grows ever stronger. I hate that we don't know how Leo contracted the virus, but I am impressed with his level of strength and perseverance. It's clear that he and Constantine are now living in the best and more supportive place possible, beyond Constantine and Julius' relationship.
More stories I will rate as I go!
Summer Fling - Aries France
A Friendly Prescription - AE Lister
Dawn - Evie McGlynn
The Kiss - Courtney W. Dixon
Feels Different - Essie Sloane
Worse Things - Breanna Rae/Breanna Ripley
And Then Came Bliss - L.C. Chase
To Be Bold - J.L. Gribble
Phoenix - Marie Sinclair
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
November 30, 2024
Say Their Names is a charity anthology created for World AIDS Day. I was excited to dive into these short stories that support such an important cause. I truly appreciate how these narratives offer diverse representations of people living with HIV, showcasing how they can lead fulfilling lives with proper treatment while emphasizing the importance of providing them with support as family, friends, partners.
Review for The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon
This was a short, quick read, but it packed an emotional punch. Austin is going through a breakup and feels trapped in a whirlwind of sadness, anger, confusion, and anxiety. He knows something is wrong with his body, and one afternoon, a call from his doctor confirms one of his worst fears, turning his world upside down.
On the other hand, Dallas, a newcomer to the city, decides to visit a bar one night. There, his eyes meet those of a guy who has no hesitation in being boldly flirtatious. After chatting for a while, the tension builds, and they share a kiss that leaves Dallas completely electrified. However, this mysterious guy vanishes as quickly as he appeared. Is this the end of their encounter, or does fate have more in store for them?
The Kiss is a story that explores acceptance and the journey people living with HIV face, showing how this diagnosis can change their lives in an instant. At the same time, it invites us to empathize with them, as they not only have to battle the illness, but also the prejudices of society. The story highlights the importance of combating the misinformation that still circulates today on this topic.
Dallas is undoubtedly a green flag. The way he showed Austin that he was still worthy of love, and not a "broken" or "corroded" person as Austin believed himself to be, was truly heartwarming. Additionally, Dallas stands out as a true communication king, demonstrating how crucial honesty and communication are in a relationship.
Their HEA was sweet and satisfying. Austin deserved that second chance to believe in love again, and Dallas turned out to be the perfect complement for him
.
P.S. I hope to read more about these two in the future.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Review for The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon
This was a short, quick read, but it packed an emotional punch. Austin is going through a breakup and feels trapped in a whirlwind of sadness, anger, confusion, and anxiety. He knows something is wrong with his body, and one afternoon, a call from his doctor confirms one of his worst fears, turning his world upside down.
On the other hand, Dallas, a newcomer to the city, decides to visit a bar one night. There, his eyes meet those of a guy who has no hesitation in being boldly flirtatious. After chatting for a while, the tension builds, and they share a kiss that leaves Dallas completely electrified. However, this mysterious guy vanishes as quickly as he appeared. Is this the end of their encounter, or does fate have more in store for them?
The Kiss is a story that explores acceptance and the journey people living with HIV face, showing how this diagnosis can change their lives in an instant. At the same time, it invites us to empathize with them, as they not only have to battle the illness, but also the prejudices of society. The story highlights the importance of combating the misinformation that still circulates today on this topic.
Dallas is undoubtedly a green flag. The way he showed Austin that he was still worthy of love, and not a "broken" or "corroded" person as Austin believed himself to be, was truly heartwarming. Additionally, Dallas stands out as a true communication king, demonstrating how crucial honesty and communication are in a relationship.
Their HEA was sweet and satisfying. Austin deserved that second chance to believe in love again, and Dallas turned out to be the perfect complement for him
.
P.S. I hope to read more about these two in the future.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
December 4, 2024
For those of us old enough to remember the scrouge that was the AIDS epidemic 0f the 1980s and 1990s this anthology hits hard. I especially enjoyed the following.
Solving the Puzzle by A.M. Arthur
Atticus is a resaler. He will buy an abandoned storage and comb through it to find merchandise he can resale, donate, or trach. He has a treasure trove of games, toys, vintage clothing, and hundreds of puzzles. There isn't much market for opened puzzles, so Atty finds Puzzle swap and tries to dump the puzzles there. Trace takes one of the puzzles home and finds a letter inside. Thus starts a hunt through time to learn the stories of the two men that communicated through letters secreted in puzzle boxes.
Under my Skein by Lee Blair
Heath is helping his mother clean out decades of clutter when they stumble of one of Uncle Rick's crochet projects. He was great at starting projects not so much finishing them. Heath is a clean freak and abhors clutter. He can't let go of the crocheted squares. He stumbled upon the Patchwork Projects, a group of volunteers that will finish a project started by a deceased relative or disabled person. Heath is matched with Ben, an oncology nurse, that crochets to reduce stress. The attraction is mutual and they device a plan to work together on the project.
My Uncle Charlie by Shane K. Morton
Adam's mother Mona calls distraught asking Adam to something with her that day. All very vague and frustrating. It finally comes out his Uncle Charlie's patchwork square is being added to the AIDS awareness quilt. All that Adam remembers of his uncle is riding on his shoulders laughing, and what a great laugh his uncle had. He was so young, and his mother never talked about him. The day gives Adam a chance to learn about Charlie's life and what he was like as a man. I would have loved to have met him.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
The best part about this book is the relationships. Julius and Constantine, and more importantly Constine and Leo. All the fears Leo has about other kids in school finding out about his status.
Solving the Puzzle by A.M. Arthur
Atticus is a resaler. He will buy an abandoned storage and comb through it to find merchandise he can resale, donate, or trach. He has a treasure trove of games, toys, vintage clothing, and hundreds of puzzles. There isn't much market for opened puzzles, so Atty finds Puzzle swap and tries to dump the puzzles there. Trace takes one of the puzzles home and finds a letter inside. Thus starts a hunt through time to learn the stories of the two men that communicated through letters secreted in puzzle boxes.
Under my Skein by Lee Blair
Heath is helping his mother clean out decades of clutter when they stumble of one of Uncle Rick's crochet projects. He was great at starting projects not so much finishing them. Heath is a clean freak and abhors clutter. He can't let go of the crocheted squares. He stumbled upon the Patchwork Projects, a group of volunteers that will finish a project started by a deceased relative or disabled person. Heath is matched with Ben, an oncology nurse, that crochets to reduce stress. The attraction is mutual and they device a plan to work together on the project.
My Uncle Charlie by Shane K. Morton
Adam's mother Mona calls distraught asking Adam to something with her that day. All very vague and frustrating. It finally comes out his Uncle Charlie's patchwork square is being added to the AIDS awareness quilt. All that Adam remembers of his uncle is riding on his shoulders laughing, and what a great laugh his uncle had. He was so young, and his mother never talked about him. The day gives Adam a chance to learn about Charlie's life and what he was like as a man. I would have loved to have met him.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
The best part about this book is the relationships. Julius and Constantine, and more importantly Constine and Leo. All the fears Leo has about other kids in school finding out about his status.
November 23, 2024
This has all the signs of being a very important book. I have not read all the stories in the collection yet but chose a random three to review which showed us HIV/AIDS from three very different perspectives. All three stories here do end on a positive note although there is some suffering which I am sure we would all expect knowing what we do today about the past. I do personally know of only one person living with HIV with an undetectable viral load but, sadly, even today he is surprised that people will hug him and treat him with respect. If all the stories in this collection live up to the three below then this will be well worth the read and a good way to gain perspective and education on this important subject which we have to remember affects real people.
Solving the Puzzle – A.M. Arthur
This story gives us a glimpse into the past, to what life was really like for Gay men during the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis, through a set of letters. Atty and Trace have a bit of a rocky start but soon resolve any slight differences and join together to solve a mystery which leads them to a survivor. I won’t say more as this will spoil the story but it does end on a positive note for both Atty and Trace. A lovely, well-written story.
And then came Bliss – L.C. Chase
In this story, which has positive vibes for those today living with HIV and AIDS, we meet Blair and Jake. Both living with a positive diagnosis but at different points of their diagnoses and with a different experience of exposure to the virus. This lovely story is filled with hope and love but does briefly touch upon the past.
Bittersweet – Anna Ashley
Here we meet Julius and Constantine who are accompanied by some very good side characters. In this story we experience HIV via a very different route. No spoilers but this one made me choke up but also gave me hope that in today’s society the stigma of HIV/AIDS can be eradicated by education and enlightenment. A very well-written short story.
Solving the Puzzle – A.M. Arthur
This story gives us a glimpse into the past, to what life was really like for Gay men during the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis, through a set of letters. Atty and Trace have a bit of a rocky start but soon resolve any slight differences and join together to solve a mystery which leads them to a survivor. I won’t say more as this will spoil the story but it does end on a positive note for both Atty and Trace. A lovely, well-written story.
And then came Bliss – L.C. Chase
In this story, which has positive vibes for those today living with HIV and AIDS, we meet Blair and Jake. Both living with a positive diagnosis but at different points of their diagnoses and with a different experience of exposure to the virus. This lovely story is filled with hope and love but does briefly touch upon the past.
Bittersweet – Anna Ashley
Here we meet Julius and Constantine who are accompanied by some very good side characters. In this story we experience HIV via a very different route. No spoilers but this one made me choke up but also gave me hope that in today’s society the stigma of HIV/AIDS can be eradicated by education and enlightenment. A very well-written short story.
April 28, 2025
For those of us old enough to remember the scrouge that was the AIDS epidemic 0f the 1980s and 1990s this anthology hits hard. I especially enjoyed the following.
Solving the Puzzle by A.M. Arthur
Atticus is a resaler. He will buy an abandoned storage and comb through it to find merchandise he can resale, donate, or trach. He has a treasure trove of games, toys, vintage clothing, and hundreds of puzzles. There isn't much market for opened puzzles, so Atty finds Puzzle swap and tries to dump the puzzles there. Trace takes one of the puzzles home and finds a letter inside. Thus starts a hunt through time to learn the stories of the two men that communicated through letters secreted in puzzle boxes.
Under my Skein by Lee Blair
Heath is helping his mother clean out decades of clutter when they stumble of one of Uncle Rick's crochet projects. He was great at starting projects not so much finishing them. Heath is a clean freak and abhors clutter. He can't let go of the crocheted squares. He stumbled upon the Patchwork Projects, a group of volunteers that will finish a project started by a deceased relative or disabled person. Heath is matched with Ben, an oncology nurse, that crochets to reduce stress. The attraction is mutual and they device a plan to work together on the project.
My Uncle Charlie by Shane K. Morton
Adam's mother Mona calls distraught asking Adam to something with her that day. All very vague and frustrating. It finally comes out his Uncle Charlie's patchwork square is being added to the AIDS awareness quilt. All that Adam remembers of his uncle is riding on his shoulders laughing, and what a great laugh his uncle had. He was so young, and his mother never talked about him. The day gives Adam a chance to learn about Charlie's life and what he was like as a man. I would have loved to have met him.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
The best part about this book is the relationships. Julius and Constantine, and more importantly Constine and Leo. All the fears Leo has about other kids in school finding out about his status.
Solving the Puzzle by A.M. Arthur
Atticus is a resaler. He will buy an abandoned storage and comb through it to find merchandise he can resale, donate, or trach. He has a treasure trove of games, toys, vintage clothing, and hundreds of puzzles. There isn't much market for opened puzzles, so Atty finds Puzzle swap and tries to dump the puzzles there. Trace takes one of the puzzles home and finds a letter inside. Thus starts a hunt through time to learn the stories of the two men that communicated through letters secreted in puzzle boxes.
Under my Skein by Lee Blair
Heath is helping his mother clean out decades of clutter when they stumble of one of Uncle Rick's crochet projects. He was great at starting projects not so much finishing them. Heath is a clean freak and abhors clutter. He can't let go of the crocheted squares. He stumbled upon the Patchwork Projects, a group of volunteers that will finish a project started by a deceased relative or disabled person. Heath is matched with Ben, an oncology nurse, that crochets to reduce stress. The attraction is mutual and they device a plan to work together on the project.
My Uncle Charlie by Shane K. Morton
Adam's mother Mona calls distraught asking Adam to something with her that day. All very vague and frustrating. It finally comes out his Uncle Charlie's patchwork square is being added to the AIDS awareness quilt. All that Adam remembers of his uncle is riding on his shoulders laughing, and what a great laugh his uncle had. He was so young, and his mother never talked about him. The day gives Adam a chance to learn about Charlie's life and what he was like as a man. I would have loved to have met him.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley
The best part about this book is the relationships. Julius and Constantine, and more importantly Constine and Leo. All the fears Leo has about other kids in school finding out about his status.
December 1, 2024
This review is based on the first three stories (for now, I will come back to update) from this Anthology.
I have loved each one of them. Very emotional, but sweet and hopeful at the same time. I recommend!!!!
'Solving the Puzzle' by AM Arthur 5/5
Atty, finds himself with many old puzzles after purchasing a storage unit, as they are probably not so valuable he decides to donate them at a puzzle swat event, where he meets Trace, a gorgeous younger man. Trace discovers that some of the puzzles have letters written by X sent to Teddy, a couple who met in the 80s. Reconstructing the story of Teddy and X, brings Atty and Trace together.
I loved this story, both MC, the letters, everything! It's very emotional in a very sweet way.
'Under My Skein' by Lee Blair 5/5
When Heath's mother decides to renovate her home, she asks Heath help to sort out among their stuff, and they find an unfinished blanket that Heath's uncle was crocheting for Heath, but couldn't finish as he died of HIV/AIDS. Surfing the web, Heath founds an associations that offers to find people to finish crochet projects. Heath is then paired with Ben. Both two men are sweet, and cute, and attracted to each other. Their story is heartwarming and full of emotions.
I loved this story, both MC, their relationship development, the side characters, everything!
'My Uncle Charlie' by Shane K. Morton 3 stars.
This very short story starts with an everyday scene of Jackson and Adam, an established couple, they have been together for more than 20 years. Mona, Adam's mother storm into their breakfast to let them know that there is an exhibition that displays the AIDS Quilt, and one of the squares was made to remember Charlie, Mona's brother and Adam's uncle. Most of the story is about Adam's regrets to no have been more interested in his uncle's life, and about all that could have been.
I got an ARC of this book, and this in my honest review.
I have loved each one of them. Very emotional, but sweet and hopeful at the same time. I recommend!!!!
'Solving the Puzzle' by AM Arthur 5/5
Atty, finds himself with many old puzzles after purchasing a storage unit, as they are probably not so valuable he decides to donate them at a puzzle swat event, where he meets Trace, a gorgeous younger man. Trace discovers that some of the puzzles have letters written by X sent to Teddy, a couple who met in the 80s. Reconstructing the story of Teddy and X, brings Atty and Trace together.
I loved this story, both MC, the letters, everything! It's very emotional in a very sweet way.
'Under My Skein' by Lee Blair 5/5
When Heath's mother decides to renovate her home, she asks Heath help to sort out among their stuff, and they find an unfinished blanket that Heath's uncle was crocheting for Heath, but couldn't finish as he died of HIV/AIDS. Surfing the web, Heath founds an associations that offers to find people to finish crochet projects. Heath is then paired with Ben. Both two men are sweet, and cute, and attracted to each other. Their story is heartwarming and full of emotions.
I loved this story, both MC, their relationship development, the side characters, everything!
'My Uncle Charlie' by Shane K. Morton 3 stars.
This very short story starts with an everyday scene of Jackson and Adam, an established couple, they have been together for more than 20 years. Mona, Adam's mother storm into their breakfast to let them know that there is an exhibition that displays the AIDS Quilt, and one of the squares was made to remember Charlie, Mona's brother and Adam's uncle. Most of the story is about Adam's regrets to no have been more interested in his uncle's life, and about all that could have been.
I got an ARC of this book, and this in my honest review.
December 1, 2024
This anthology is dedicated in honor of Worlds AIDS day with proceeds benefiting the Names Project/AIDS quilt and I urge everyone to purchase this and read the stories. I love to read shorter stories in between longer works and that's what I'm doing here. While I have looked over the entire book, I've only read a few of the stories (for now) for the purpose of this review. While I cried both happy and sad tears while reading, one of the threads that I see is woven throughout is hope and love.
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon -
First, let me just say that I love the names of the MCs - Austin and Dallas. In this story, Austin discovers that he has been betrayed by his (ex) boyfriend of 5yrs in every way - his ex not only cheated on him, gaslighted him, but also passed on the HIV virus. After being in a low place for some time, he goes out to a bar where he encounters Austin and they exchange a kiss. This kiss changes them both, creating a deep connection, and eventually, they have a very satisfying, wonderful HEA.
Feels Different by Essie Sloan - This story is well place in the anthology as it juxtaposes with the previous story in that it's told from the POV of an MC, Adam, who is told that his boyfriend of 6 months, Aaron, has HIV. Adam's boss, a father figure for him, is also a very important character in this story. Not going to lie - I was already. pretty emotional and teary after reading The Kiss, but this one had me sobbing pretty much the whole way. As with The Kiss, open and honest communication and found family are important elements here too. And while the stories are very different, we also get a wonderful HEA here as we do with The Kiss.
I received a complimentary copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon -
First, let me just say that I love the names of the MCs - Austin and Dallas. In this story, Austin discovers that he has been betrayed by his (ex) boyfriend of 5yrs in every way - his ex not only cheated on him, gaslighted him, but also passed on the HIV virus. After being in a low place for some time, he goes out to a bar where he encounters Austin and they exchange a kiss. This kiss changes them both, creating a deep connection, and eventually, they have a very satisfying, wonderful HEA.
Feels Different by Essie Sloan - This story is well place in the anthology as it juxtaposes with the previous story in that it's told from the POV of an MC, Adam, who is told that his boyfriend of 6 months, Aaron, has HIV. Adam's boss, a father figure for him, is also a very important character in this story. Not going to lie - I was already. pretty emotional and teary after reading The Kiss, but this one had me sobbing pretty much the whole way. As with The Kiss, open and honest communication and found family are important elements here too. And while the stories are very different, we also get a wonderful HEA here as we do with The Kiss.
I received a complimentary copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 3, 2024
Let me say that I loved every book in the series and anthology and that is where I love them because they were all different. They didn’t read like the same story over and over so when I thought about what to review, it’s been a struggle because I wanted to talk about all of them but I’m going to pick two.
My first review, I picked a book called The Kiss and I picked it because I love the author. What is an emotionally powerful book about healing and the power of a kiss to change your life Austin I wanted to hug his neck. He’s struggling from a boyfriend who treat cheated on him when he learned that he had HIV. I’m not even to the bar with me to Dallas this year. Kiss in the world is changed the new Connect until two years later but the chemistry still there this is a wonderful book about overcoming your fear. When you get a diagnosis like HIV it’s about healing, and the power of healing, and the power of love, and the power, and the struggles of starting over in finding your happily ever after.
The second book I decided to review is Feels Different.. And I picked it because I wasn’t familiar with the author But I for sure in the future Will look for books by this author. this book left me and emotionally roller coaster of a wreck. I love the characters in the story as it so real and true for me, It reflects my own experiences of my friends, who have a boyfriend who cheats, and they get HIV as a result of it. Sugar comes with that, and the devastation comes with that but this book reminds us love can win.
Again, I cannot stress how wonderful this anthology as it should be required reading for everyone to educate themselves and to see the hope of living with HIV not dying with HIV. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
My first review, I picked a book called The Kiss and I picked it because I love the author. What is an emotionally powerful book about healing and the power of a kiss to change your life Austin I wanted to hug his neck. He’s struggling from a boyfriend who treat cheated on him when he learned that he had HIV. I’m not even to the bar with me to Dallas this year. Kiss in the world is changed the new Connect until two years later but the chemistry still there this is a wonderful book about overcoming your fear. When you get a diagnosis like HIV it’s about healing, and the power of healing, and the power of love, and the power, and the struggles of starting over in finding your happily ever after.
The second book I decided to review is Feels Different.. And I picked it because I wasn’t familiar with the author But I for sure in the future Will look for books by this author. this book left me and emotionally roller coaster of a wreck. I love the characters in the story as it so real and true for me, It reflects my own experiences of my friends, who have a boyfriend who cheats, and they get HIV as a result of it. Sugar comes with that, and the devastation comes with that but this book reminds us love can win.
Again, I cannot stress how wonderful this anthology as it should be required reading for everyone to educate themselves and to see the hope of living with HIV not dying with HIV. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
December 5, 2024
Beautiful
These stories are filled with pain, suffering, courage, and joy.
Two stood out to me.
Friendly Prescription by A.E. Lister
Gerome is a young man who met Scott, Pascal, and Jericho while they were on vacation.
They are in a polyamory relationship and invited him to their cabin for a steamy encounter.
It's been a few years since then, and Gerome contacts Scott.
He's had an STD scare and is looking for some advice.
Scott immediately invites him to their home.
They all do a wonderful job of calming him down and also introduce him to a couple living with HIV.
He gets good news that he's in the clear.
Scott, Pascal, and Jericho invite him to play with them once again and have a great time with the open invitation to do so anytime in the future.
To Be Bold by J.L. Gribble
Dima and Jake had an explosive encounter in a club, then went their separate ways.
A few days later, Jake shows up as a potential participant in a study for a long-term therapy for HIV.
Dima tries to be professional, but it turns out Jake is friends with his brother Val.
Jake is also desperately looking for a place to live, so Dima offers his spare bedroom.
The two soon find an easy comraderie and actually enjoy being together.
Unfortunately, Dima has closed himself off to love after losing a partner years ago.
His brother Val believes that Dima is a player, so he warns him off of Jake in order to protect him.
This makes Dima realize that he wants more with Jake and is ready to be brave.
Jake is also dealing with some political fallout in his job with the military due to his HIV status, and there's some tension due to the possible outcome.
Everything is resolved, and the epiloge was a sweet glimpse into their happy future.
These stories are filled with pain, suffering, courage, and joy.
Two stood out to me.
Friendly Prescription by A.E. Lister
Gerome is a young man who met Scott, Pascal, and Jericho while they were on vacation.
They are in a polyamory relationship and invited him to their cabin for a steamy encounter.
It's been a few years since then, and Gerome contacts Scott.
He's had an STD scare and is looking for some advice.
Scott immediately invites him to their home.
They all do a wonderful job of calming him down and also introduce him to a couple living with HIV.
He gets good news that he's in the clear.
Scott, Pascal, and Jericho invite him to play with them once again and have a great time with the open invitation to do so anytime in the future.
To Be Bold by J.L. Gribble
Dima and Jake had an explosive encounter in a club, then went their separate ways.
A few days later, Jake shows up as a potential participant in a study for a long-term therapy for HIV.
Dima tries to be professional, but it turns out Jake is friends with his brother Val.
Jake is also desperately looking for a place to live, so Dima offers his spare bedroom.
The two soon find an easy comraderie and actually enjoy being together.
Unfortunately, Dima has closed himself off to love after losing a partner years ago.
His brother Val believes that Dima is a player, so he warns him off of Jake in order to protect him.
This makes Dima realize that he wants more with Jake and is ready to be brave.
Jake is also dealing with some political fallout in his job with the military due to his HIV status, and there's some tension due to the possible outcome.
Everything is resolved, and the epiloge was a sweet glimpse into their happy future.
November 4, 2024
This is a review of "Bittersweet" by Ana Ashley.
I received a free advance copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
Julius, a huge man, owns a coffee shop where his help is causing havoc in his kitchen. This includes the latest one who burns toast and brownies while going through his phone. As this assistant is running out with his tail between his legs, Constantine shows up to save the day. He is a wonderful pâtissier whose creations become heavily in demand. He is travelling with his brother Leo, a teen with HIV. Both Constantine and Leo are struggling to deal with Leo’s disease but are happy to be in Stillwater. Julius and Constantine hook up and find it difficult to leave each other alone. Kay is the daughter of the lead singer of “Hall of Fame” whose members we’ve seen in previous installments in the series. She is organizing a fundraiser for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program. This leads to Leo blaming Constantine for divulging his status, though the latter is innocent. In the end, Leo divulges his status to Kay, who simply hugs him.
This short story is the author’s contribution to the anthology “Say Their Names” with proceeds going to the “Names Project”. This requires a sensitive treatment of the subject, and the author handles it with aplomb, with a minimum of angst. The story has three MCs: Julius, Constantine, and Leo. Given that this is a short story, the plot must develop quickly, and the author pens a storyline that is credible and sweet. Leo’s status is dealt with in a manner that does him justice. The love that develops between the other two main characters is nicely condensed. The secondary characters are limited but are important to the plot.
I received a free advance copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
Julius, a huge man, owns a coffee shop where his help is causing havoc in his kitchen. This includes the latest one who burns toast and brownies while going through his phone. As this assistant is running out with his tail between his legs, Constantine shows up to save the day. He is a wonderful pâtissier whose creations become heavily in demand. He is travelling with his brother Leo, a teen with HIV. Both Constantine and Leo are struggling to deal with Leo’s disease but are happy to be in Stillwater. Julius and Constantine hook up and find it difficult to leave each other alone. Kay is the daughter of the lead singer of “Hall of Fame” whose members we’ve seen in previous installments in the series. She is organizing a fundraiser for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program. This leads to Leo blaming Constantine for divulging his status, though the latter is innocent. In the end, Leo divulges his status to Kay, who simply hugs him.
This short story is the author’s contribution to the anthology “Say Their Names” with proceeds going to the “Names Project”. This requires a sensitive treatment of the subject, and the author handles it with aplomb, with a minimum of angst. The story has three MCs: Julius, Constantine, and Leo. Given that this is a short story, the plot must develop quickly, and the author pens a storyline that is credible and sweet. Leo’s status is dealt with in a manner that does him justice. The love that develops between the other two main characters is nicely condensed. The secondary characters are limited but are important to the plot.
December 1, 2024
I remember seeing stories about this quilt on the Australian news at the time, and it made a big impact on me even from so far. The whole epidemic was so badly handled in so many countries, and this quilt was finally something showing love in a really dark time. Preserving this is a really worthwhile charity.
The stories are all excellent, and a number of them definitely had me needing tissues. Also very impressive placing of the stories in this order, this made so much sense, which must be so difficult to achieve in a multi-author group.
AM Arthur - Solving the Puzzle. Very touching. I really liked the jigsaw communication.
Lee Blair - Under My Skein. Lovely way to meet, and it was particularly sweet how their lives were intertwined before they even met.
Shane K Morton - My Uncle Charlie. A story fitting this anthology exactly about a man learning about his uncle and the history of the time through his quilt piece.
Ana Ashley - Bittersweet. Nice addition to the existing series. Lots of good supportive characters.
Aries France - Summer Fling. Some scary scenes. Really enjoyable characters.
AE Lister - A Friendly Prescription. A good reminder that we all still need to be cautious. The support was great and I plan to look up reading more about these characters.
Evie Mcglynn - Dawn. A touching new relationship with amazing communication.
Courtney W Dixon - The Kiss. Lots of big feelings and great care for mental health.
Essie Sloane - Feels Different. Good story and a great start to a little found family.
Breanna Rae - Worse Things. Casey's perspective (the title) and support were beautiful.
LC Chase - And Then Came Bliss. Great support story between the MCs and including a support group.
JL Gribble - To Be Bold. Two MCs finding a home in each other where they didn't expect it.
Marie Sinclair - Phoenix. A great ending to this wonderful anthology, with one of the MCs actually having his own quilt piece as he survived against the odds.
The stories are all excellent, and a number of them definitely had me needing tissues. Also very impressive placing of the stories in this order, this made so much sense, which must be so difficult to achieve in a multi-author group.
AM Arthur - Solving the Puzzle. Very touching. I really liked the jigsaw communication.
Lee Blair - Under My Skein. Lovely way to meet, and it was particularly sweet how their lives were intertwined before they even met.
Shane K Morton - My Uncle Charlie. A story fitting this anthology exactly about a man learning about his uncle and the history of the time through his quilt piece.
Ana Ashley - Bittersweet. Nice addition to the existing series. Lots of good supportive characters.
Aries France - Summer Fling. Some scary scenes. Really enjoyable characters.
AE Lister - A Friendly Prescription. A good reminder that we all still need to be cautious. The support was great and I plan to look up reading more about these characters.
Evie Mcglynn - Dawn. A touching new relationship with amazing communication.
Courtney W Dixon - The Kiss. Lots of big feelings and great care for mental health.
Essie Sloane - Feels Different. Good story and a great start to a little found family.
Breanna Rae - Worse Things. Casey's perspective (the title) and support were beautiful.
LC Chase - And Then Came Bliss. Great support story between the MCs and including a support group.
JL Gribble - To Be Bold. Two MCs finding a home in each other where they didn't expect it.
Marie Sinclair - Phoenix. A great ending to this wonderful anthology, with one of the MCs actually having his own quilt piece as he survived against the odds.
December 1, 2024
4.5⭐️ rounded upto five. This is a great anthology of stories by a great selection of authors, I enjoy anthology’s as it gives me a chance to read about the same topic but from different perspectives based on the way the author wants to tell their stories and this one has a great selection of stories from authors who I enjoyed anthology’s and at least one or two new ones as well, I’m going to give quick reviews on a couple of the stories but would definitely recommend reading them all,
The Kiss by Courtney w Dixon is a great read Austin’s ex cheated on him but Austin is left devastated by the extent of the betrayal when he is told he has HIV, he goes to a bar and meets Dallas and they share a magical kiss before Austin takes off, but two years later they meet again and we get a beautiful sweet emotional story of how everyone is worthy of love and I loved how Dallas was there to support Austin, it’s a story well worth reading as it packs so many emotions and feelings into a short read.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley this was another great read and also a different type of story the MCs of this story are Julias and Constantine but it is Constantine’s young brother Leo who is only a high school student that is diagnosed with HIV and in this heartwarming story it shows that sometimes we can get a positive reaction to this terrible disease in this story of acceptance and friendship.
I think I would only give two of the stories in this anthology 3.5 stars the rest are 4,4.5 or 5 star reads. Very good anthology and well worth a read.
The Kiss by Courtney w Dixon is a great read Austin’s ex cheated on him but Austin is left devastated by the extent of the betrayal when he is told he has HIV, he goes to a bar and meets Dallas and they share a magical kiss before Austin takes off, but two years later they meet again and we get a beautiful sweet emotional story of how everyone is worthy of love and I loved how Dallas was there to support Austin, it’s a story well worth reading as it packs so many emotions and feelings into a short read.
Bittersweet by Ana Ashley this was another great read and also a different type of story the MCs of this story are Julias and Constantine but it is Constantine’s young brother Leo who is only a high school student that is diagnosed with HIV and in this heartwarming story it shows that sometimes we can get a positive reaction to this terrible disease in this story of acceptance and friendship.
I think I would only give two of the stories in this anthology 3.5 stars the rest are 4,4.5 or 5 star reads. Very good anthology and well worth a read.
December 5, 2024
This anthology struck me in an emotional place as it was a reminder of the earlier times when HIV was just making its mark on the world and the very different way that initially it seemed things would go for folks who were diagnosed compared to where we are now. Now folks live and love with HIV, not just fight and die and this anthology of stories celebrates some stories of how they do just that. It is a lovely testament to a path that seemed unimaginable at one time.
I really liked starting with "Solving the Puzzle" as it drew me in to this set of stories. There was something about Atty buying and salvaging storage lockers, hoping for treasures that he can sell in his business and finding something more when he discovers a set of letters that leads him to Trace that reminded me that sometimes you get things not expected that feel like they can be almost more valuable than what you hoped for.
My Uncle Charlie was such an emotional tale for me as it reminded me of my visit to the Quilt and of the importance of remembrance even in a time of sadness and loss.
I am not done yet but I have not read a story yet that I have not enjoyed. This is a wonderful set of stories that both reminds us of where we have come from and reminds us of how important it is to pay attention to where we are right now.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really liked starting with "Solving the Puzzle" as it drew me in to this set of stories. There was something about Atty buying and salvaging storage lockers, hoping for treasures that he can sell in his business and finding something more when he discovers a set of letters that leads him to Trace that reminded me that sometimes you get things not expected that feel like they can be almost more valuable than what you hoped for.
My Uncle Charlie was such an emotional tale for me as it reminded me of my visit to the Quilt and of the importance of remembrance even in a time of sadness and loss.
I am not done yet but I have not read a story yet that I have not enjoyed. This is a wonderful set of stories that both reminds us of where we have come from and reminds us of how important it is to pay attention to where we are right now.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2024
My review doesn't refer to the whole book
Solving The Puzzle by A.M. Arthur - 4 stars
Atticus is a reseller and, after buying a storage unit at an auction, finds a lot of puzzles that he decides to donate. When he goes to the Community Center to give away his puzzles, he meets an interesting young man, Trace. They bond over their curiosity about some letters they find in the puzzle boxes: they are intrigued by the story of a mysterious couple, X and Teddy, and they keep digging to know more. In the meantime, they start having feelings for each other.
I liked very much both of them and the sweet moments they shared. The end is bittersweet but I was glad they could offer a little bit of comfort.
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon - 4 stars
Painful but also very hopeful: Austin and Dallas' connection is instant and very deep and they were definitely meant to be together. I liked very much Austin's honesty not only about his illness but also about himbeing scared. And Dallas was so supportive and loving.
Despite all the difficulties they had to face, this is a very very beautiful story.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Solving The Puzzle by A.M. Arthur - 4 stars
Atticus is a reseller and, after buying a storage unit at an auction, finds a lot of puzzles that he decides to donate. When he goes to the Community Center to give away his puzzles, he meets an interesting young man, Trace. They bond over their curiosity about some letters they find in the puzzle boxes: they are intrigued by the story of a mysterious couple, X and Teddy, and they keep digging to know more. In the meantime, they start having feelings for each other.
I liked very much both of them and the sweet moments they shared. The end is bittersweet but I was glad they could offer a little bit of comfort.
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon - 4 stars
Painful but also very hopeful: Austin and Dallas' connection is instant and very deep and they were definitely meant to be together. I liked very much Austin's honesty not only about his illness but also about himbeing scared. And Dallas was so supportive and loving.
Despite all the difficulties they had to face, this is a very very beautiful story.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
November 29, 2024
This is a wonderful, important anthology bringing attention to a sensitive and difficult topic. I appreciate how the stories help to normalize an HIV diagnosis and I hope bring comfort and reassurance to people.
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon:
This heartwarming story introduces us to Austin as he’s finding out about the extent of the betrayal by his now ex-boyfriend. We briefly meet Dallas before there is a time jump, necessary due to the length of the novella. We see the progress Austin has been making, and then meet Dallas again. What happens is sweet, compassionate, and satisfying. A great novella from an instant-buy author for me.
Phoenix by Marie Sinclair:
We meet Max and Marcello after both have received their life-changing diagnoses. Max, several decades prior, and Marcello more recently. Max helps Marcello come to terms with his diagnosis, and in the process both are surprised to feel attraction and interest for the first time in a while. Both work to rediscover the feelings of self-worth they had lost, in order to build a relationship. The story brings an overwhelming message of hope.
The Kiss by Courtney W. Dixon:
This heartwarming story introduces us to Austin as he’s finding out about the extent of the betrayal by his now ex-boyfriend. We briefly meet Dallas before there is a time jump, necessary due to the length of the novella. We see the progress Austin has been making, and then meet Dallas again. What happens is sweet, compassionate, and satisfying. A great novella from an instant-buy author for me.
Phoenix by Marie Sinclair:
We meet Max and Marcello after both have received their life-changing diagnoses. Max, several decades prior, and Marcello more recently. Max helps Marcello come to terms with his diagnosis, and in the process both are surprised to feel attraction and interest for the first time in a while. Both work to rediscover the feelings of self-worth they had lost, in order to build a relationship. The story brings an overwhelming message of hope.
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December 1, 2024I feel the need to label Say Their Names: A World AIDS Day Charity Anthology as NSFW - but not because it's too spicy... but because no one needs to see you ugly cry at your desk and then 15 minutes later laugh out loud while reading the same book...
I knew from the content that at least one of these stories was going to make me ugly cry - and a few of them did, but what they all did was shed a hopeful light on where we are now with HIV and celebrate those we lost to the terribly crippling disease of AIDS. It made me cry, it made me smile and even laugh out loud, but it also made me think, reflect and consider that we just don't talk about the people enough... and this anthology not only shows us that HEAs are possible as an HIV positive person, but it also reminds us that so many people died in stigma and silence when they didn't need to.
I loved every story in this book because each short touched me in a different way, but they all came back to the HEA and the triumph of hope and love over fear and despair. If you're willing to go in with a vulnerable heart, you'll come out after reading this anthology richer and more reflective...
I knew from the content that at least one of these stories was going to make me ugly cry - and a few of them did, but what they all did was shed a hopeful light on where we are now with HIV and celebrate those we lost to the terribly crippling disease of AIDS. It made me cry, it made me smile and even laugh out loud, but it also made me think, reflect and consider that we just don't talk about the people enough... and this anthology not only shows us that HEAs are possible as an HIV positive person, but it also reminds us that so many people died in stigma and silence when they didn't need to.
I loved every story in this book because each short touched me in a different way, but they all came back to the HEA and the triumph of hope and love over fear and despair. If you're willing to go in with a vulnerable heart, you'll come out after reading this anthology richer and more reflective...
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