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Aberrant: The Queer Diaries
ELLERY WILLIAM FLYNN is dead.
The sixty-seven year old journalist and award-winning author of the International bestselling gay novel The Wanting Hour, was found unresponsive in his apartment early Christmas morning by his next-door neighbor Mrs. Evelyn Brando.
Mrs. Brando discovered the body while delivering her annual tray of Christmastime sugar cookies.
For over thirty years, Mr. Flynn has resided in a one bedroom, fourth floor walk-up on the corner of Grove and Hudson Street in the heart of Greenwich Village. He was warmly regarded by his neighbors as a local "literati" treasure.
The elderly author was last seen on Christmas Eve enjoying a seasonal cocktail at a local watering hole, Marie’s Crisis, just a stone’s throw away from his residential building.
Detectives from the Sixth Precinct are currently investigating the case and the cause of Mr. Flynn’s death.
Mr. Flynn has no immediate family.
~ The last thing Ellery Flynn expected to encounter on the eve of his own death is a twenty-five year old transient named Chance. What one magical evening conjures up between the two of them -- an aging "has been" author and a young Midwestern stud -- will alter the course of their lives forever. What unfolds ... is a journey of healing transformation, invoking the aberrant history of a bittersweet past, a lifelong fight to belong, and an endless quest for self-acceptance and love.
It’s never too late for an awakening …
The sixty-seven year old journalist and award-winning author of the International bestselling gay novel The Wanting Hour, was found unresponsive in his apartment early Christmas morning by his next-door neighbor Mrs. Evelyn Brando.
Mrs. Brando discovered the body while delivering her annual tray of Christmastime sugar cookies.
For over thirty years, Mr. Flynn has resided in a one bedroom, fourth floor walk-up on the corner of Grove and Hudson Street in the heart of Greenwich Village. He was warmly regarded by his neighbors as a local "literati" treasure.
The elderly author was last seen on Christmas Eve enjoying a seasonal cocktail at a local watering hole, Marie’s Crisis, just a stone’s throw away from his residential building.
Detectives from the Sixth Precinct are currently investigating the case and the cause of Mr. Flynn’s death.
Mr. Flynn has no immediate family.
~ The last thing Ellery Flynn expected to encounter on the eve of his own death is a twenty-five year old transient named Chance. What one magical evening conjures up between the two of them -- an aging "has been" author and a young Midwestern stud -- will alter the course of their lives forever. What unfolds ... is a journey of healing transformation, invoking the aberrant history of a bittersweet past, a lifelong fight to belong, and an endless quest for self-acceptance and love.
It’s never too late for an awakening …
- GenresM M Romance
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 13, 2015
4 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Douglas Wickard
12 books263 followersTHE WANTING HOUR
JUNE 1, 2018
It's never too late for an awakening.
JUNE 1, 2018
It's never too late for an awakening.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
July 4, 2015
"Love Is Love, Never To Be Thrown Away"
Having the opportunity to read this book prior to publication, I jumped at the chance as I love the suspenseful mystery stories by Douglas Wickard. However, this is a totally different story of two people straying from the normal ways of life, wandering through life not knowing who they are. His dedication, "ABERRANT is dedicated to all those aberrant souls who felt different, disconnected, unloved or misunderstood because of their sexual preference, With Heartfelt Love, Douglas Wickard." This story is so very timely with our nation recognizing same sex marriages. There are yet so many people who don't believe in equality, and that's one of the battles that will continue for a long time in America. This is an awesome story examining the lives of two males, an old man, Ellery "Will" Flynn, and one young man, Chance, who have similar experiences in their childhood. The format is told in both the present and flashes back to the past. Wickard's story is provocative and written realistically with so much passion and insightfulness. The dialog is what I have to say is raw, but having read several wonderful books by gay authors it did not sway me from reading this story enthusiastically. I like the generosity of Chance, not thinking of himself but gifting to Will the wonderful feelings of love which he has never incurred until his last days. I liked the counseling offered to Chance since they endured the same hardships in their youth. The premise of the story reveals the difficulty of gay men finding love, long lasting, true love. Included in this novel is the history of the Stonewall Inn attack by law enforcers on LGBT people in Greenwich Village, New York City, 1969. This set the course of these people to seek equality. I believe Author Doug Wickard wrote this story with much flamboyance, but also with his heart. It's a strong, skillful story one that will remain in hearts and minds of those who are not judgmental. This emotional story is spellbinding, very moving, and heart wrenching. It contains erotic scenes and dialog, For Adults Only.
Having the opportunity to read this book prior to publication, I jumped at the chance as I love the suspenseful mystery stories by Douglas Wickard. However, this is a totally different story of two people straying from the normal ways of life, wandering through life not knowing who they are. His dedication, "ABERRANT is dedicated to all those aberrant souls who felt different, disconnected, unloved or misunderstood because of their sexual preference, With Heartfelt Love, Douglas Wickard." This story is so very timely with our nation recognizing same sex marriages. There are yet so many people who don't believe in equality, and that's one of the battles that will continue for a long time in America. This is an awesome story examining the lives of two males, an old man, Ellery "Will" Flynn, and one young man, Chance, who have similar experiences in their childhood. The format is told in both the present and flashes back to the past. Wickard's story is provocative and written realistically with so much passion and insightfulness. The dialog is what I have to say is raw, but having read several wonderful books by gay authors it did not sway me from reading this story enthusiastically. I like the generosity of Chance, not thinking of himself but gifting to Will the wonderful feelings of love which he has never incurred until his last days. I liked the counseling offered to Chance since they endured the same hardships in their youth. The premise of the story reveals the difficulty of gay men finding love, long lasting, true love. Included in this novel is the history of the Stonewall Inn attack by law enforcers on LGBT people in Greenwich Village, New York City, 1969. This set the course of these people to seek equality. I believe Author Doug Wickard wrote this story with much flamboyance, but also with his heart. It's a strong, skillful story one that will remain in hearts and minds of those who are not judgmental. This emotional story is spellbinding, very moving, and heart wrenching. It contains erotic scenes and dialog, For Adults Only.
August 1, 2015
“Please don’t call me names. Please don’t make me suffer.”
This is a quote from author Douglas Wickard’s powerful, new offering Aberrant.
Aberrant is the tale of man’s life-long journey to accept himself while enduring the harsh world of a scornful, albeit ignorant society. The character narration is via two points of view, both written in the first person. The prose is effortless, and without flaw – I’ve read almost all of the talented Mr. Wickard’s books, so it came as no surprise how easily I was able to follow the POV changes.
The main character Will wants only to be loved for what he is: An oddball, an outcast, and a man with effeminate tendencies who tries to fit in, but somehow, never can. Having no father figure to lead him into adulthood, his path reminds me of a patch and stitch kind of thing a person misses when raised in a womanized, passive-aggressive household without a strong male role model.
When we first meet Will, it’s Christmas Eve. He’s a worn, old man in his sixties, sitting in a gay bar he’s been gravitating to for years and where he feels a peaceful acceptance. He meets Chance, a much younger version of himself, and together they forge a friendship into Christmas morning at Will’s apartment. At first the unlikely pair is discomfited, because neither knows for sure what the other really wants. The meat of the story begins, in my opinion, when Will and Chance end up sharing each other’s life stories, with the discovery they do have much in common, and that it’s okay to be exactly who you are.
I read this book twice so I could properly absorb the meaning of what the author was trying to convey. It’s quite rare I’m moved to tears while reading a novel, but this story was so poignant I couldn’t help myself. Five stars for a wonderfully written and empathetic novel – a tribute really, to those who are different than what society deems the norm. This story will stay with the reader long after the tale has ended. Bravo, Doug, you’ve touched my soul.
This is a quote from author Douglas Wickard’s powerful, new offering Aberrant.
Aberrant is the tale of man’s life-long journey to accept himself while enduring the harsh world of a scornful, albeit ignorant society. The character narration is via two points of view, both written in the first person. The prose is effortless, and without flaw – I’ve read almost all of the talented Mr. Wickard’s books, so it came as no surprise how easily I was able to follow the POV changes.
The main character Will wants only to be loved for what he is: An oddball, an outcast, and a man with effeminate tendencies who tries to fit in, but somehow, never can. Having no father figure to lead him into adulthood, his path reminds me of a patch and stitch kind of thing a person misses when raised in a womanized, passive-aggressive household without a strong male role model.
When we first meet Will, it’s Christmas Eve. He’s a worn, old man in his sixties, sitting in a gay bar he’s been gravitating to for years and where he feels a peaceful acceptance. He meets Chance, a much younger version of himself, and together they forge a friendship into Christmas morning at Will’s apartment. At first the unlikely pair is discomfited, because neither knows for sure what the other really wants. The meat of the story begins, in my opinion, when Will and Chance end up sharing each other’s life stories, with the discovery they do have much in common, and that it’s okay to be exactly who you are.
I read this book twice so I could properly absorb the meaning of what the author was trying to convey. It’s quite rare I’m moved to tears while reading a novel, but this story was so poignant I couldn’t help myself. Five stars for a wonderfully written and empathetic novel – a tribute really, to those who are different than what society deems the norm. This story will stay with the reader long after the tale has ended. Bravo, Doug, you’ve touched my soul.
July 13, 2015
December 2014 and two men's lives will change forever. Both men have had a rough time getting where they are in life. It's never easy to be different though. One man, an author whose hey-day has come and gone. He is merely existing now. A small apartment and very few friends were all he had now. The other man, considerably younger, yet facing some of the same things the older man had faced. Neither knew where life would take them next.
This look at the path each man has taken, is filled with secrets, heartbreak and danger. Ellery Flynn and Chance met in a small bar Ellery was known to frequent. Their conversation is centered around their journey to this moment in time.
A book that is perfect for this time in our history. So many have had to hide who they really are from others, but now, they can open their hearts. Mr. Wickard's book is incredibly insightful and powerful. I found it sad so many have had to live this way. Now, perhaps, we can all open our minds a bit more. You will enjoy the way these two men are drawn together. It truly is a moving and wonderful read. This book will make you wonder at those in your own life. If they are waiting to share more of themselves with you. You will share this one with everyone. I know I have. It is the first book in the series and is a marvelous stand alone book. Check it out. Douglas Wickard poured a great deal of himself in this book.
I found no issues with this one.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because I was moved to share this with everyone. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~
This look at the path each man has taken, is filled with secrets, heartbreak and danger. Ellery Flynn and Chance met in a small bar Ellery was known to frequent. Their conversation is centered around their journey to this moment in time.
A book that is perfect for this time in our history. So many have had to hide who they really are from others, but now, they can open their hearts. Mr. Wickard's book is incredibly insightful and powerful. I found it sad so many have had to live this way. Now, perhaps, we can all open our minds a bit more. You will enjoy the way these two men are drawn together. It truly is a moving and wonderful read. This book will make you wonder at those in your own life. If they are waiting to share more of themselves with you. You will share this one with everyone. I know I have. It is the first book in the series and is a marvelous stand alone book. Check it out. Douglas Wickard poured a great deal of himself in this book.
I found no issues with this one.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because I was moved to share this with everyone. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~
July 12, 2015
Aberrant, the fabulous new novel from the pen of master storyteller Douglas Wickard is a terrific character driven story that is deeply thought provoking, heart breaking but also heart-warming, full of raw emotion and has an addictive quality that will keep you turning those pages until the final outcome is realised.
Detectives Straub and Martin are investigating the death of the award winning author of the bestselling gay novel, The Wanting Hour, Ellery Flynn. Flynn was last seen alive on Christmas Eve in Marie’s Crisis, a local gay bar.
An accidental meeting between 67 year old Flynn, who had been born in a time when to be different was unacceptable and ones true identity had to be hidden, and a young man called Chance, will change both their lives for ever.
I found this an emotional and thoroughly gripping read with realistically drawn, believable characters, a storyline that flicks effortlessly between past and present and a good mix of narrative and dialogue.
Aberrant is certainly different to the other novels Douglas has written in the past but different is definitely GOOD. I loved it.
Definitely a recommended read though due to its sexual content it is one for adults only.
Detectives Straub and Martin are investigating the death of the award winning author of the bestselling gay novel, The Wanting Hour, Ellery Flynn. Flynn was last seen alive on Christmas Eve in Marie’s Crisis, a local gay bar.
An accidental meeting between 67 year old Flynn, who had been born in a time when to be different was unacceptable and ones true identity had to be hidden, and a young man called Chance, will change both their lives for ever.
I found this an emotional and thoroughly gripping read with realistically drawn, believable characters, a storyline that flicks effortlessly between past and present and a good mix of narrative and dialogue.
Aberrant is certainly different to the other novels Douglas has written in the past but different is definitely GOOD. I loved it.
Definitely a recommended read though due to its sexual content it is one for adults only.
August 14, 2015
Review by K.Needles
Pick ME! Love ME! Take care of ME!
A heartfelt read...
In Aberrant, Book 1 of The Queer Diaries, by brilliantly creative author, Douglas Wickard, the reader meets Ellery Flynn, a 67 year old journalist and a "has been" bestseller of a gay novel.
Ellery, with no immediate family, has become a local treasure in the community who now lives a simple life; and, basically, he has accrued about as much dust on his own life as the stacks of books in his meager apartment. Ellery exists. In his present life he goes through the motions without much emotion.
But, then, he meets a 25 year old young man named Chance. Truly, a "vessel" of Ellery in his younger days. (I like that Mr. Wickard gave the transient the name of Chance.) On Christmas Eve, while Chance and Ellery share personal story-telling and life-reflections, Ellery has the "chance" to relive,verbally, his own youth; his days of being a participating journalist at the Stonewall Riots...his life as an active, contributing member of so-called society trying to make a difference...his fame as a writer...his endless quest to feel love, to be loved, and trying to figure out: "Who am I?" "What am I?" And, Ellery learns that young Chance is trying to figure it all out,too.
Ellery, back in the day, had the good looks and the stud body. Had. Past tense. As Ellery tells Chance: "Trust me. Growing old ain't for sissies."
Aberrant is an emotionally raw and provocative read. Mr. Wickard takes us into the souls of his characters and their endless search for self-understanding, self-acceptance and love.
This reader feels that Aberrant is a wonderfully written book about relationships: relationship with the life experience, with self, and with others. I moved, heartfelt, through Mr. Wickard's written words and often re-visited parts of the book. I found myself reflecting on my own aging, life experiences, career, relationships, and coming to terms with self. Who I was. Who I am. And...coming to terms with mortality.
This reader shed tears throughout parts of the book and at the end of the book. But, there was also a feeling of peace at the last page. Well done with the ending, Mr. Wickard!
I highly recommend Aberrant, give it five stars, and congratulate Mr. Wickard on another amazing novel. I look forward to Book 2!
Pick ME! Love ME! Take care of ME!
A heartfelt read...
In Aberrant, Book 1 of The Queer Diaries, by brilliantly creative author, Douglas Wickard, the reader meets Ellery Flynn, a 67 year old journalist and a "has been" bestseller of a gay novel.
Ellery, with no immediate family, has become a local treasure in the community who now lives a simple life; and, basically, he has accrued about as much dust on his own life as the stacks of books in his meager apartment. Ellery exists. In his present life he goes through the motions without much emotion.
But, then, he meets a 25 year old young man named Chance. Truly, a "vessel" of Ellery in his younger days. (I like that Mr. Wickard gave the transient the name of Chance.) On Christmas Eve, while Chance and Ellery share personal story-telling and life-reflections, Ellery has the "chance" to relive,verbally, his own youth; his days of being a participating journalist at the Stonewall Riots...his life as an active, contributing member of so-called society trying to make a difference...his fame as a writer...his endless quest to feel love, to be loved, and trying to figure out: "Who am I?" "What am I?" And, Ellery learns that young Chance is trying to figure it all out,too.
Ellery, back in the day, had the good looks and the stud body. Had. Past tense. As Ellery tells Chance: "Trust me. Growing old ain't for sissies."
Aberrant is an emotionally raw and provocative read. Mr. Wickard takes us into the souls of his characters and their endless search for self-understanding, self-acceptance and love.
This reader feels that Aberrant is a wonderfully written book about relationships: relationship with the life experience, with self, and with others. I moved, heartfelt, through Mr. Wickard's written words and often re-visited parts of the book. I found myself reflecting on my own aging, life experiences, career, relationships, and coming to terms with self. Who I was. Who I am. And...coming to terms with mortality.
This reader shed tears throughout parts of the book and at the end of the book. But, there was also a feeling of peace at the last page. Well done with the ending, Mr. Wickard!
I highly recommend Aberrant, give it five stars, and congratulate Mr. Wickard on another amazing novel. I look forward to Book 2!
September 10, 2018
★★★★☆ ~ 4 Stars
Ellery Flynn tells his story in flashbacks of a closeted gay man struggling to understand his sexuality and a young man who's struggling in a different way. This was well-written and a bit of mystery story to boot.
Ellery Flynn tells his story in flashbacks of a closeted gay man struggling to understand his sexuality and a young man who's struggling in a different way. This was well-written and a bit of mystery story to boot.
September 26, 2015
Powerful. Moving. Entertaining. Thought provoking. Brilliant read! Wow! FIVE STARS!
"We are not supposed to feel anything other than what’s expected of us, the norm…fitting in, being ordinary. We conform to a customary, acceptable status and follow, quite unconsciously, the bylaws of our lawless society. Being popular and well-liked becomes the focus, the fodder of reality-television, celebrity. The displacement causes uneasiness, silence and abhorrent behavior, invoking a shadow self, a secretive cave into which we scramble to hide. The questions, the self-judgment, the inner battle waged between who we are and what we are not, and how we live out our life expressing it, with love and kindness, some tenderness, rather than merely existing in a shameful epicenter of confusion and self-loathing." ABERRANT ~ Douglas Wickard
"We plow full steam ahead, though, and play the game. What choice do we have? Especially when we’re young and the world is new and exciting, everything and everybody is a conquest, an opportunity to win. We all want to be victorious! We all want to be winners! When we are new and exciting, and our bodies are young and vital, it’s so easy to get caught up in the grand momentum of it all, the system—the life-clock ticking, getting married, having a spouse, or a partner, being a part of a couple, coupling. Life! Love! The pursuit of happiness mirrored in someone else’s assessment of us!” ABERRANT ~ Douglas Wickard
"What once I threw away with disdain, without a second thought, I now cherish with a heightened sensitivity. How stupid our young thoughts of immortality. How dangerous our contempt, our judgment, our arrogance regarding what all of us will ultimately become, and much sooner than we think. As if in youth, we hold some secret to life and love and eternal happiness. As if what we bring to the table will always be on our terms, our contracts neatly spelled out, a happily-ever-after always guaranteed. Now, how enticing to feel this spark of remembrance, this heat, this flame set afire in my heart, an alarm sounding through my soul." ABERRANT ~ Douglas Wickard
"We are not supposed to feel anything other than what’s expected of us, the norm…fitting in, being ordinary. We conform to a customary, acceptable status and follow, quite unconsciously, the bylaws of our lawless society. Being popular and well-liked becomes the focus, the fodder of reality-television, celebrity. The displacement causes uneasiness, silence and abhorrent behavior, invoking a shadow self, a secretive cave into which we scramble to hide. The questions, the self-judgment, the inner battle waged between who we are and what we are not, and how we live out our life expressing it, with love and kindness, some tenderness, rather than merely existing in a shameful epicenter of confusion and self-loathing." ABERRANT ~ Douglas Wickard
"We plow full steam ahead, though, and play the game. What choice do we have? Especially when we’re young and the world is new and exciting, everything and everybody is a conquest, an opportunity to win. We all want to be victorious! We all want to be winners! When we are new and exciting, and our bodies are young and vital, it’s so easy to get caught up in the grand momentum of it all, the system—the life-clock ticking, getting married, having a spouse, or a partner, being a part of a couple, coupling. Life! Love! The pursuit of happiness mirrored in someone else’s assessment of us!” ABERRANT ~ Douglas Wickard
"What once I threw away with disdain, without a second thought, I now cherish with a heightened sensitivity. How stupid our young thoughts of immortality. How dangerous our contempt, our judgment, our arrogance regarding what all of us will ultimately become, and much sooner than we think. As if in youth, we hold some secret to life and love and eternal happiness. As if what we bring to the table will always be on our terms, our contracts neatly spelled out, a happily-ever-after always guaranteed. Now, how enticing to feel this spark of remembrance, this heat, this flame set afire in my heart, an alarm sounding through my soul." ABERRANT ~ Douglas Wickard
February 18, 2016
Wow! Another truly masterful creation from a favorite author of mine :D A riveting unique story that was heart-wrenching at times, but still kept me turning pages not wanting to stop! It's been a long time since I needed to keep a box of tissues handy while reading ;) Despite being a fantastic work of fiction, there is great insight concerning relationships & emotions that could very well be happening in real life... Douglas Wickard has a profound way of using imagery with his superb attention to detail. I was pulled into the story as if I were watching a movie in living color! Compelling and well developed characters are described so that I felt like I actually knew them! I look forward to the next book from this amazingly talented Author! ... That being said, I never write spoilers or recap blurbs, but I do know when a book is phenomenal and worthy of becoming a bestseller! I highly recommend this must read to all fans of fiction, Adults 18+ due to sexual content. So grab your own copy or at least add it to your TBR list now!
September 7, 2015
Author Douglas Wickard’s latest novel is one that will keep you on the edge of your seat! His vivid imaginary characters leave you feeling like you are right there in the story itself. His way with words is powerful indeed. This book is very hard to put down, the pages will have you turning and turning, due to the feel and pull of the story itself.
Creating a reflection between a young man and an older gentleman, you begin to go into both minds of the two. It is very heartfelt to see the love the young man displays to his new friend Will. Chance shows true and genuine care towards Will that weave into their newfound friendship.
DW is masterful in creating an array of characters who live in your mind long after the book has been closed.
Douglas Wickard has a way with his magical words that will pull at your emotions in each and every page! 10 stars plus!!!
~ Go get a copy now!~ You won’t be sorry!!
Creating a reflection between a young man and an older gentleman, you begin to go into both minds of the two. It is very heartfelt to see the love the young man displays to his new friend Will. Chance shows true and genuine care towards Will that weave into their newfound friendship.
DW is masterful in creating an array of characters who live in your mind long after the book has been closed.
Douglas Wickard has a way with his magical words that will pull at your emotions in each and every page! 10 stars plus!!!
~ Go get a copy now!~ You won’t be sorry!!
August 23, 2019
A good read
I like the author's style and his imagini g the discussions that take place. The fragility of human emotions is so easily shown and not in a clumsy way but with truth and graciousness. The character, by the first few pages you know them. This is a human story. Realistic, honest, sad, happy, excruciatingly lost at time, probably a result of dealing with parent's inadequacies. I think I'd recommend it, as a good account of what is probably a more everyday tale than we'd like to imagine. Read it. See what you think. I'm glad I read it. In fact, it captivated my senses so much, I read it in one sitting.
I like the author's style and his imagini g the discussions that take place. The fragility of human emotions is so easily shown and not in a clumsy way but with truth and graciousness. The character, by the first few pages you know them. This is a human story. Realistic, honest, sad, happy, excruciatingly lost at time, probably a result of dealing with parent's inadequacies. I think I'd recommend it, as a good account of what is probably a more everyday tale than we'd like to imagine. Read it. See what you think. I'm glad I read it. In fact, it captivated my senses so much, I read it in one sitting.
April 7, 2016
I'm so glad I read this new book by Douglas Wickard. This well-written, timely story really touched my heart and helped me see inside the soul of people in my own life who might be feeling different and not accepted. Beautifully paced, the two main characters are well-developed and seemingly real in the way they open up and share their stories with each other. A page turner from the start, you won't be able to put down this provocative, spellbinding piece of literature -- you'll want to see it to the end to find out what happens to characters you've grown to understand and care about. I'm so impressed to see Mr. Wickard write about such a complex and unfortunately, still somewhat uncomfortable topic for some people with wonderful grace and humanity. A great read, indeed.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews