First Step

by Tatiana Vixen Reyes

Some places don’t just welcome you. They see you.

The Glass Heel isn’t on any map. It’s whispered about in forums, passed between trans women like a secret—a nightclub where you can finally stop performing and start being.

Tonight, Claire steps through its doors for the first emerald dress, pounding heart, an invitation she almost didn’t use.

amber light, velvet shadows—and Elena, a woman in crimson whose gaze holds warmth instead of judgment.

What begins as a passing glance deepens into a conversation that neither wants to end. As the night unfolds, Claire finds herself confiding in someone who listens, understands, and offers a kind of gentleness she hasn’t felt in years. And when morning nears, both women realize the connection between them may be something worth returning to.

First Step is a tender, slow-burn adult romance about vulnerability, affirmation, and the courage it takes to let someone in. It follows a trans woman learning to claim her place in the world—and the unexpected spark that might grow into something lasting.

The Glass Heel series celebrates trans women, authentic connection, and the transformative power of being truly seen.

For readers who
✨ Sapphic trans romance
✨ Emotional intimacy and character-driven storytelling
✨ Found spaces & chosen family
✨ Quiet chemistry with a hopeful heartbeat

102 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 16, 2025

About the author

A Mexican-Filipino American author and openly transgender woman, she writes stories that blend sensuality, imagination, and cultural insight. After early retirement from federal civil service, she turned to her lifelong passion for writing, creating works like the erotic novella series She Came to the Glass Heel and the Érōsikúsō Campaign Setting for tabletop roleplaying games. Living in Chicago with her ever-“helpful” cat, she draws inspiration from comic books, romance and fantasy novels, science fiction movies, and countless hours at the gaming table.

Reviews

[Leah Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Step is a beautiful, heartfelt read about finding the courage to show up as yourself. Claire’s first night out as her true self could have been written with nerves and fear alone, but instead the story shines with tenderness, desire, and hope. What I loved most is that this isn’t just a romance, it’s also a story of self-acceptance. Claire doesn’t leave the club “fixed” by love. She leaves stronger because she finally chooses herself. It’s tender, erotic, and empowering, and it leaves you with the kind of warmth that lingers long after you’ve closed the book.

[Garima Bais · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Step is a deeply moving story about courage, vulnerability, and self-acceptance. Claire’s first night at The Glass Heel is written with such tenderness that I felt her every heartbeat. The connection with Elena is both sensual and affirming, showing how love can help us embrace who we truly are. Emotional, lyrical, and unforgettable. Waiting to read more books from the author.