Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life: Experiences Inspire my Writing

Hey Booklovers!

People often ask me, “Where do you get your ideas?” And honestly, the answer isn’t as glamorous as you might think. I don’t wait for a lightning bolt of inspiration or a dream full of perfect plotlines. Most of my inspiration comes from everyday life—those tiny, magical moments that seem ordinary but are bursting with story potential.
Let me share a bit about how the world around me inspires my writing and how it makes my fiction novels feel more real.

The Power of Eavesdropping (In a Good Way!)

I’m one of those people who loves sitting in a coffee shop, not just for the caffeine but for the atmosphere. There’s something about snippets of overheard conversations—the rhythm of a stranger’s laughter, the heated debate about whether oat milk is overrated—that sparks ideas.
One time, I overheard two people discussing a surprise marriage proposal, and it sent my imagination running. What if the proposal didn’t go as planned? What if the person saying yes had a secret they hadn’t revealed yet? That one moment ended up inspiring a subplot in one of my novels.

Personal Memories and Real Emotions

As a gay male author, I draw a lot from my own life. The awkwardness of my first crush, the nervous excitement of coming out to a friend, and even the heartbreak of unrequited love—all of those moments find their way into my characters’ lives.
Why? Because those are real emotions, and readers connect with authenticity. When I write about a character falling in love or grappling with their identity, I want you to feel like you’re living that moment with them. That connection comes from writing what I’ve felt, seen, and experienced.

Observing the Beauty in the Mundane

I’ve always believed that inspiration is everywhere if you’re paying attention. The barista with the quirky tattoos? They might become a character in a future novel. The way sunlight filters through the trees on a quiet walk? That’s the setting for a pivotal scene.
Even the frustrations of daily life—like a missed bus or a rainy day—can inspire. What if a missed bus leads to a life-changing encounter? What if the rain isn’t just an inconvenience but a symbol of renewal?

The People Who Shape Us

The people we meet leave marks on us, and as a writer, I get to honor those connections by weaving them into my stories. A kind word from a stranger might inspire a mentor figure. A funny quirk from a childhood friend might breathe life into a side character. For me, it’s not about copying people exactly but capturing their essence. It’s my way of celebrating the richness of human interaction—and that’s what makes my fictional worlds feel real.

Turning Everyday Life into Fiction

When I sit down to write, I’m not just creating characters and plotlines. I’m translating the messiness, beauty, and unpredictability of life onto the page. My goal is for readers to see themselves in my stories, to feel like these characters could walk off the page and join them for coffee. That realism comes from grounding my stories in everyday inspiration. Because even in fiction, the truth of human experience is what resonates most.
So, the next time you’re out in the world, take a moment to observe the details. Who knows? That small moment might be the start of a great story.

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Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix

Embracing My Truth: The Journey to Self-Acceptance

Hey Booklovers!

Today, I want to open up about something incredibly personal: my journey to self-acceptance as a gay man. It’s a story I’ve held close to my heart, but one I believe is important to share—because maybe, just maybe, it’ll resonate with someone who needs to hear it.

What Was It Like Growing Up Gay in the 1990s?

Let me paint a picture: it’s the 1990s, and being gay is not something people talked about unless it was to mock, insult, or judge. There was no TikTok, no Instagram, no visible queer community in my world. The closest I came to seeing someone “like me” on TV was a punchline in a sitcom.
In school, the word “gay” was a weapon. Kids called me “gay” long before I even knew what it meant. It wasn’t a descriptor—it was an insult, hurled with venom and cruelty. By the time I started to understand my own feelings, I had already absorbed the message loud and clear: being gay was something to be ashamed of, something disgusting.

How Did Bullying Affect My Self-Acceptance?

To say I was bullied is an understatement. My school life was a minefield of taunts, laughter behind my back, and outright exclusion. Every time someone spat the word “gay” at me, it felt like a slap. I didn’t know how to fight back, because deep down, I feared they were right. Bullying didn’t just hurt—it shaped how I saw myself. I started to believe that I was broken, that my feelings were wrong. I tried to shrink myself, to disappear, to be someone—anyone—else.
It took years to undo that damage.

When Did I Realize That Being Gay Wasn’t Wrong?

There wasn’t a single moment of revelation—it was a slow, painful process. It started when I discovered stories of people who were unapologetically themselves. Authors, musicians, activists—they became my lifeline. When I finally admitted to myself that I was gay, it wasn’t just a “coming out” moment; it was a reckoning. I had to unlearn all the lies I’d been told about what it meant to be queer.

What Helped Me Embrace My Truth?

1. Writing Saved Me
Writing became my escape, my sanctuary, and ultimately, my voice. I poured my pain, confusion, and hope into stories. It helped me process my emotions and imagine a world where being gay wasn’t something to hide.
2. Finding My People
As I got older, I found my community—people who saw me, accepted me, and celebrated me. Their love and support were the antidote to years of shame.
3. Representation Matters
When I saw queer characters in books, movies, and TV shows, it was life-changing. It made me realize that our stories deserve to be told. This is why I write LGBTQ+ fiction—to give others the representation I so desperately needed.

Why Is Visibility So Important?

Visibility is everything. It’s the difference between feeling alone and knowing you’re part of something bigger. It’s why Pride Month matters, why queer authors matter, and why sharing our stories is a revolutionary act. As a gay male author, my mission is to write stories that show the beauty, complexity, and resilience of queer lives. Because every time someone picks up a book and sees themselves in its pages, it chips away at the shame and isolation that so many of us have felt.

What’s My Message to You?

If you’re struggling to embrace your truth, know this: you are not alone. You are not broken. The world may try to convince you otherwise, but there is nothing wrong with being exactly who you are. My journey to self-acceptance was long and difficult, but it made me stronger. It taught me that there is power in living authentically. And it’s a power I want to share with the world—through my words, my stories, and my truth.

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Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix

The Importance of Pride Month

Hey Booklovers!

June rolls around, and suddenly the streets are alive with rainbows, celebrations, and a collective reminder that we’ve come a long way—but also that the journey isn’t over. As a gay male author, Pride Month holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just a time to celebrate who we are; it’s a vital call to action, especially with the challenges facing LGBTQ+ rights worldwide.
Let’s talk about why Pride Month matters now more than ever.

What Does Pride Month Represent?

Pride Month is more than parades and parties (though those are fabulous too!). It’s a commemoration of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history that kickstarted the modern fight for equality.
It’s a time to honor the activists who paved the way, remember the struggles we’ve faced, and celebrate how far we’ve come. But most importantly, it’s about visibility. Pride says, We’re here, we matter, and we’re not going anywhere.

Why Is Pride Still Relevant Today?

In an ideal world, we wouldn’t need Pride Month anymore. But let’s be real—the fight for acceptance and equality is far from over. With the current political situation—whether it’s anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, hate crimes, or attempts to erase queer identities from public spaces—Pride has never been more critical. It’s a reminder that we must keep showing up, speaking out, and standing together.

How Can Straight Allies Support Pride?

Pride Month isn’t just for LGBTQ+ folks—it’s also a chance for allies to show their support. Here are some ways allies can make a difference:
• Educate Yourself: Learn about LGBTQ+ history, rights, and the issues facing the community today.
• Be Vocal: Use your voice to challenge discrimination, whether it’s in your workplace, friend group, or online.
• Celebrate Queer Joy: Pride is a time to uplift and amplify LGBTQ+ voices, from art and literature to music and activism.

Straight allies are a crucial part of creating a world where acceptance isn’t just an ideal but a reality.

What Does Pride Mean to Me as a Gay Author?

For me, Pride Month is personal. Writing queer characters and stories is my way of contributing to the movement. When I create authentic LGBTQ+ narratives, I’m adding to the tapestry of representation that helps readers feel seen and understood.
Pride fuels my creativity—it reminds me why these stories matter. Whether it’s a gay teen finding his first love or a queer adult navigating life, these stories reflect real experiences, and they deserve to be told.

How Can We Carry the Spirit of Pride Beyond June?

Pride isn’t just a one-month event—it’s a year-round commitment. Here’s how we can keep the momentum going:
• Support LGBTQ+ Creators: From books and films to small businesses, show your love for queer creators and entrepreneurs.
• Stay Informed: Follow LGBTQ+ organizations and news outlets to stay up to date on issues affecting the community.
• Be a Safe Space: Whether you’re LGBTQ+ or an ally, being open, accepting, and supportive makes a huge difference in someone’s life.

Final Thoughts

Pride Month is a celebration, a protest, and a promise all rolled into one. It’s a time to honor the past, take stock of the present, and fight for a future where every queer person can live authentically and safely.
So this June (and every month after), let’s keep the spirit of Pride alive—by celebrating, by showing up, and by standing together.

What does Pride Month mean to you? Share your thoughts—I’d love to hear them!

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Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix

Why Diversity Matters

Hey Booklovers!

It’s a question that comes up a lot these days: Can straight authors write queer stories? As a gay male author, I’ve given this topic a lot of thought. There’s no simple “yes” or “no” answer—it’s nuanced, just like identity and storytelling itself. So, let’s dive in!

Can straight authors write queer characters well?

Of course, they can. Just like a straight actor can portray a queer character through research, empathy, and dedication, a straight author can create compelling queer characters. Good storytelling is all about understanding the human experience, and love, longing, joy, and heartbreak transcend sexual orientation.
But here’s the thing: while a straight author might be able to imagine what it’s like to be queer, they’re still working from an outside perspective. It’s like describing a country you’ve read about but never visited—it’s possible, but there’s something about living there that gives a story its most authentic details.

What makes queer authors’ voices unique?

As a gay man, creating queer characters is my world. I’m not just guessing at what it feels like to navigate a queer identity—I’ve lived it. I’ve felt the rush of first love and the sting of rejection in a society that doesn’t always accept people like me. My stories are infused with the authenticity of lived experience: the awkward coming-out conversations, the unspoken bond with chosen family, the subtle ways LGBTQ+ people navigate the world every day.
That doesn’t mean my stories are better, but they do carry a depth that’s hard to replicate if you haven’t walked in those shoes. Authenticity matters because representation matters. When queer people read my work, I want them to feel like they’re seen—not as a stereotype, but as fully fleshed-out individuals.

Where does the line between authenticity and appropriation fall?

The key difference is respect. A straight author writing a queer story must approach it with the same care they’d give any marginalized perspective. It’s not about ticking diversity boxes; it’s about understanding the weight of representation.

If you’re a straight writer, ask yourself:
• Am I relying on stereotypes, or have I done my homework?
• Have I listened to actual queer voices, read their stories, and tried to understand their experiences?
• Am I creating these characters because I love and respect the community, or because I think it’ll sell?

When done right, a queer character written by a straight author can add value to literature. But if it’s rushed, shallow, or exploitative, it can do more harm than good.

How can straight authors support queer voices?

The best way to support queer stories is to amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ authors. If you’re a straight author writing queer characters, don’t just stop at your own book. Read and recommend stories written by queer authors. Understand the landscape and contribute to a richer, more authentic pool of representation.

So… should straight authors write queer stories?

Here’s my take: Yes, but with care. Straight authors are welcome to write queer stories as long as they do the work. But as a gay male author, my queer stories will always come from a place of lived truth, and that’s something no amount of research can replicate.
In the end, there’s room for all of us to tell stories. The world needs diverse voices, not just in the stories we tell, but in the storytellers themselves. So, straight writers, go ahead—but remember that queer writers have been, and always will be, at the heart of these narratives.

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Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix

Navigating the Self-Publishing World: Insights and Lessons Learned

Hey Booklovers!

When I decided to self-publish my LGBTQ YA debut, Second Chance With Tony, I knew it was going to be an adventure—but wow, has it been a ride! Self-publishing is rewarding, challenging, and full of lessons I didn’t see coming. For anyone curious about the process or thinking about taking the leap yourself, I’m here to share my insights and lessons learned.
Let’s dive into what I’ve discovered about navigating the self-publishing world, especially as a queer author writing LGBTQ YA.

What’s the First Step in Self-Publishing?

The first thing I learned? Self-publishing isn’t just writing a book—it’s running a business. You’re not just the author; you’re the publisher, marketer, and project manager too.

Here’s my advice for step one: Get organized.
• Create a timeline for your book release.
• Research the platforms you want to use (Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, etc.).
• Budget for editing, cover design, and marketing.

Planning ahead saves so much stress later on. And trust me, you’ll thank yourself when your book launch doesn’t feel like chaos!

How Do You Find an Audience for LGBTQ YA?

One of the biggest challenges I faced was figuring out how to reach readers who’d connect with my work. LGBTQ YA is a growing genre, but it’s still niche compared to other categories.

Here’s what worked for me:
• Know Your Reader: My audience is mostly teens and young adults (and plenty of adults who love YA too!) who want authentic queer stories. Knowing this helped me craft my marketing and social media content.
• Use Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter are great for connecting with readers and other authors. I leaned into #BookTok and #QueerYA hashtags, and the response was amazing.
• Reach Out to Reviewers: I sent my book to LGBTQ+ book bloggers and influencers. Their reviews and posts helped me find readers who are passionate about queer stories.

How Important Are Editing and Design?

Short answer: Very.
Even if you’re self-publishing, your book needs to be polished and professional. That means investing in:
1. Editing: I hired a developmental editor to help shape the story and a copyeditor to catch typos and grammar mistakes.
2. Cover Design: People do judge a book by its cover. My cover designer brought my vision to life while making sure it stood out in the YA genre.
It’s tempting to cut corners to save money, but quality is everything—especially when competing with traditionally published books.

What Are the Challenges of Self-Publishing LGBTQ YA?

As a gay male author, I’ve faced some unique challenges in this space. For one, not every platform or marketing tool is LGBTQ+-friendly. I’ve seen ads flagged for simply mentioning queer themes, and it’s frustrating to navigate that bias.
Another challenge is visibility. Queer YA books often don’t get the same shelf space or promotional push as mainstream titles. Self-publishing means working twice as hard to ensure your book reaches the readers who need it.
That said, the payoff is worth it. Seeing readers connect with my characters—feeling seen, validated, and represented—is why I write in the first place.

What Have I Learned About Staying Authentic?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to stay true to my voice and my stories. As a gay person, creating queer characters is my world. These aren’t just stories I want to tell—they’re stories I have to tell.
Authenticity resonates with readers. Drawing from my real-life experiences helped make my characters and their struggles feel real. Self-publishing gave me the freedom to write unapologetically queer stories without worrying about whether a traditional publisher thought they were “marketable enough.”

Is Self-Publishing Worth It?

Absolutely. It’s not easy—it’s a steep learning curve, and it takes time, money, and energy. But self-publishing gives you complete creative control and the chance to tell your story your way. For me, that’s priceless.
If you’re thinking about self-publishing, especially in the LGBTQ YA space, go for it. The world needs more diverse stories, and your voice could be the one to inspire someone who’s been waiting to see themselves in a book.

Final Thoughts

Self-publishing is a journey, and I’m still learning as I go. But every step has been worth it, from holding my first book in my hands to hearing from readers who felt seen in my characters.
Have you ever thought about self-publishing? Or are you just curious about the process? Let me know—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

My newsletter subscribers get instant access to my Secret VIP Giveaway Page, where I share free short stories and exclusive insights into my current projects. Sign up HERE

Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix

My Current WIP

Hey Booklovers!

I’m so excited to give you a behind-the-scenes peek into my current work in progress: the sequel to Second Chance With Tony! If you’ve read my debut novel (and if not, what are you waiting for?), you know it’s a heartfelt, emotional YA story about love, forgiveness, and self-discovery. Well, this time, I’m flipping the script.
Let me introduce you to Keeping Tyler Safe, the story told from the perspective of Tony’s mysterious love interest, Gabe. It’s still a YA novel, but it’s shaping up to be something completely different—and not just because Gabe has a whole other vibe.

A New Perspective, A New Challenge

One of the biggest challenges with this book is that it takes place at the exact same time as Second Chance With Tony. Yep, you heard that right! That means I’ve been carefully weaving the timelines together so that Gabe’s story complements Tony’s without stepping on its toes. It’s like solving a narrative puzzle, and let me tell you, it’s been both thrilling and exhausting.
But here’s the twist: Gabe’s story has an entirely different tone. While Second Chance With Tony was about healing and connection, Keeping Tyler Safe dives into darker territory—secrets, self-protection, and the walls we build to keep others out.

A Different Kind of Coming-of-Age Story

Gabe is not your typical YA protagonist. He’s guarded, sharp-witted, and carries the weight of a complicated past. His coming-of-age journey isn’t about discovering who he is—it’s about deciding whether he’s brave enough to let someone else see him for who he really is.
And then there’s Tyler. Without giving too much away, Tyler is someone Gabe feels an overwhelming responsibility to protect, and that bond shapes so much of his character. Gabe’s love for Tyler is fierce and messy, and through that lens, we get to see a side of him that even Tony didn’t fully understand in the first book.

Writing Gabe’s Voice

The hardest—and most exciting—part of this book has been getting into Gabe’s head. He’s nothing like Tony, and his voice is sharper, more introspective, and sometimes, downright heart-wrenching. Writing from his perspective has pushed me as an author because I want his story to feel just as authentic and emotionally rich as Tony’s.
And let me tell you, balancing those two voices has been a wild ride! There are moments where their stories overlap, and I want readers to feel like they’re seeing the same scene from two completely different angles. It’s been such a creative challenge, but one I hope you’ll love when it all comes together.

What’s Next?

I’m still deep in the trenches of drafting, but every time I write a new chapter, I fall more in love with Gabe’s story. It’s gritty, emotional, and unapologetically real. And while Second Chance With Tony was all about the power of second chances, Keeping Tyler Safe explores what it means to fight for the people you care about—even when it’s not easy.
I can’t wait to share more with you as the book progresses. Stay tuned for updates, snippets, and (fingers crossed) a cover reveal down the line!

My newsletter subscribers get instant access to my Secret VIP Giveaway Page, where I share free short stories and exclusive insights into my current projects. Sign up HERE

Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix

New Year 2025: No Resolutions, Just Plans

Hey Booklovers!

Happy New Year! While everyone’s busy talking about resolutions, I’m taking a different approach this year. I don’t need resolutions—I’ve got plans. Big, bold, exciting plans. As an author, I’m kicking off 2025 with a clear vision of what I want to accomplish, and I can’t wait to share it with you. So, what’s on my agenda? Let’s dive in.

Publishing My Second Novel

First up: I’m thrilled to announce that my second novel is on track to be released this year! It’s the sequel to Second Chance With Tony, but with a twist—it’s told from the perspective of Gabe, Tony’s mysterious love interest. This story has been a labor of love. Titled Keeping Tyler Safe (working title for now!), it explores a completely different side of the world I introduced in my debut novel. While Tony’s story was about forgiveness and rebuilding, Gabe’s journey is darker, sharper, and more introspective.
Writing this sequel has been a unique challenge. It’s set during the same timeline as the first book, but it has its own tone and themes. Gabe’s voice demanded something raw and authentic, and I’ve poured so much of my heart into capturing his experience.

Why Writing Queer Characters is My Passion

As a gay male author, creating queer characters isn’t just something I do—it’s who I am. Writing these stories feels authentic because I draw from my own life. The awkward first crushes, the moments of self-doubt, the joy of finding chosen family—I’ve lived it, and I channel those experiences into my work.
That’s why Keeping Tyler Safe feels so personal. It’s not just a love story; it’s a story about the complexities of queer identity, the walls we build, and the moments that inspire us to tear them down.
When I write, I’m not just creating characters—I’m amplifying voices, including my own. And in a world where queer stories are still underrepresented, I take that responsibility seriously.

More Stories, More Ideas

But that’s not all! This year, I’m also brainstorming ideas for a brand-new standalone novel. I can’t spill the details just yet, but let’s just say it’s going to explore a side of queer identity I haven’t tackled before. It’s fresh, it’s exciting, and I can’t wait to dive in once Gabe and Tyler’s story is wrapped.

Connecting With Readers

Another big goal for 2025? Connecting with you! Whether it’s through blog posts like this, social media chats, or (fingers crossed) some live events, I’m determined to make this year about building our little bookish community.
Writing can feel isolating at times, but hearing from readers who’ve connected with my characters reminds me why I do this. So, let’s keep the conversation going—your insights, feedback, and support mean the world to me.

No Resolutions, Just Ambition

So, there you have it—my plans for 2025. Resolutions are fine, but I’d rather focus on concrete goals and the steps to make them happen. And if the past year has taught me anything, it’s that the best way to honor my creativity is to keep writing stories that feel real, raw, and unapologetically queer.
Here’s to a fabulous year ahead, filled with books, growth, and maybe even a little magic. Let’s make 2025 unforgettable.

My newsletter subscribers get instant access to my Secret VIP Giveaway Page, where I share free short stories and exclusive insights into my current projects. Sign up HERE

Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix

World AIDS Day

Hey Booklovers!

December 1st is World AIDS Day. I am filled with a deep sense of reflection and remembrance. As a gay man, this day carries an intimate and poignant significance for me. It’s a time to honor those we’ve lost, acknowledge those living with HIV/AIDS, and recognize the strides we’ve made in combating this epidemic.
HIV/AIDS has had a profound impact on the gay community. Growing up in the 1980s, I was acutely aware of the stigma associated with being gay and the heightened fear surrounding HIV. This fear was not just about the virus but also about the judgment and discrimination that came with it.
I think of Rock Hudson, whose coming out as a man with AIDS was a turning point in the public’s awareness of the disease. I made a book review video about a biography of him. Rock Hudson never lived openly as a gay man. His queerness came to light only shortly before his death. Other artists were queer trailblazers, living their truth openly before they succumbed to the terrible disease. Names like Freddie Mercury, whose music had such a profound impact on my life, and Keith Haring, whose art spoke volumes about love and activism, come to mind. Their deaths were not just a loss to the world but felt like a personal blow to our community’s soul.
HIV/AIDS has shaped our community in ways that are both painful and inspiring. We have seen incredible loss but also remarkable progress in medical research and advocacy. The fight against HIV/AIDS has united us, bringing forth activists, healthcare professionals, and ordinary people determined to make a difference.
Today, we celebrate the lives saved through advancements in medicine and the tireless work of those advocating for awareness and equality. We acknowledge the importance of regular testing, safe practices, and the power of solidarity in fighting stigma.
World AIDS Day is a reminder that our journey is far from over. It’s a call to action for continued support, education, and compassion. As a gay man, I stand with my community, honoring our past and looking forward to a future where HIV/AIDS is no longer a shadow over our lives. I honor Freddie, Keith, Rock, and thousands of unknown others who lost their lives. I stand with my community, proud of our history of resilience and activism, and committed to
Together, we can ensure that love, understanding, and hope continue to drive us forward.

My newsletter subscribers get instant access to my Secret VIP Giveaway Page, where I share free short stories and exclusive insights into my current projects. Sign up HERE

Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix