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The Heretic and the Broken Man
Orion “Ry” Clair’s life once brimmed with promise—a loving boyfriend, an up-and-coming band, and a future steeped in music. However, a predatory contract and a ruthless manager crushed his dreams, leaving him a broken man. Now, battling addiction, Ry hits rock bottom when Alex, the love of his life, requires hospitalization during a tour.
Haunted by cherished memories of their early days and the intoxicating magic of their first performances, Ry makes a pivotal decision: he voluntarily admits himself into the same rehabilitation clinic where Alex is recovering. Through therapy, Ry confronts his inner demons, expresses deep remorse, and formulates a bold strategy to break free from the contract that cost him everything, all in a desperate bid to revive the band’s music.
Can Ry and his band reclaim their glory without sacrificing the members who gave it life? He must choose sobriety over oblivion, honesty over deception, and the risky possibility of true love over the false solace of lies. A final performance awaits, where only the audience will determine if their music will be reborn—or irrevocably silenced.
Haunted by cherished memories of their early days and the intoxicating magic of their first performances, Ry makes a pivotal decision: he voluntarily admits himself into the same rehabilitation clinic where Alex is recovering. Through therapy, Ry confronts his inner demons, expresses deep remorse, and formulates a bold strategy to break free from the contract that cost him everything, all in a desperate bid to revive the band’s music.
Can Ry and his band reclaim their glory without sacrificing the members who gave it life? He must choose sobriety over oblivion, honesty over deception, and the risky possibility of true love over the false solace of lies. A final performance awaits, where only the audience will determine if their music will be reborn—or irrevocably silenced.
195 pages, ebook
Published June 15, 2026
About the author
K. Andrew Turner
6 books10 followersK. Andrew Turner is a queer m/m writer with hEDS and AuDHD. He writes contemporary and speculative poetry and prose exploring connection, complexity, and what it means to be human. His work delves into self-reflection, mental illness, and the messy intricacies of relationships—from the mundane to the fantastical. His published work includes Gymlationship (Arroyo Seco Press, 2016) and Heart, Mind, Blood, Skin (Finishing Line Press). His poetry and prose have appeared in Chiron Review, LUMMOX, Carnival Literary, Sadie Girl Press, and MUSE.
Discover more at kandrewturner.com or follow @kandrewturner on BlueSky, Threads, Instagram or X.
Discover more at kandrewturner.com or follow @kandrewturner on BlueSky, Threads, Instagram or X.
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
July 31, 2026
A sweet, angsty story about a second chance for high school sweethearts Ry and Alex, bandmates and exes.
Perfect for fans of any inter-band conflict, Larry Stylinson shippers, and fans of complex group dynamics.
After inadvertently selling their happiness for success, Ry and the band hit an all time low after years of alcohol and drug abuse.
While striving for happiness and the joy of music again, Ry has to be brave enough to make changes.
This was a lovely story, with alternating past and present timelines. The past was such a ray of wholesome and sweet. It contrasted perfectly with the present, twisting the knife of heartache even more.
Loved to see how Ry worked through this journey on his own, after some initial selfishness. This tender, jagged story ends with the perfect touch of spice.
Would’ve loved to see a bit more of how Ry and Alex come back together but overall an entertaining story that covers some serious topics like addiction, mental health struggles, etc.
Definitely recommend checking out this book. I can’t wait to see more from this author.
Perfect for fans of any inter-band conflict, Larry Stylinson shippers, and fans of complex group dynamics.
After inadvertently selling their happiness for success, Ry and the band hit an all time low after years of alcohol and drug abuse.
While striving for happiness and the joy of music again, Ry has to be brave enough to make changes.
This was a lovely story, with alternating past and present timelines. The past was such a ray of wholesome and sweet. It contrasted perfectly with the present, twisting the knife of heartache even more.
Loved to see how Ry worked through this journey on his own, after some initial selfishness. This tender, jagged story ends with the perfect touch of spice.
Would’ve loved to see a bit more of how Ry and Alex come back together but overall an entertaining story that covers some serious topics like addiction, mental health struggles, etc.
Definitely recommend checking out this book. I can’t wait to see more from this author.
July 30, 2026
Such a cute read def recommend!
July 31, 2026
really enjoyed this sad/emo boys story! it was easy to digest and read. loved the way it alternated between past and present to show and the issues ry was facing and how we got to who he is in the present
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews