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!

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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!

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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.

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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.

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Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix

Where do I write? Real life leads to stories…

Hey Booklovers!

Ever wondered where the magic happens in an author’s mind? Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on my creative process, giving you a glimpse into how I turn everyday experiences into original stories.

Where do I find inspiration?

I draw inspiration from real life, from the mundane to the extraordinary. Whether it’s a conversation at a bustling café, the quiet moments on a walk along the river Rhine in my hometown Cologne, or the vibrant energy at a local pride parade, life is my endless well of ideas. It’s not just about the big, dramatic moments; it’s the little details that make a story come alive.
I confess I love to sit somewhere and listen to people talk. I’ve also used some of the things my friends said or experienced in my novels (don’t tell them I told you).

How do I capture these moments?

I always carry a notebook with me. It’s my lifeline, a trusty companion that I whip out whenever something sparks my imagination. You never know when a brilliant idea might strike—maybe while waiting in line at the grocery store or sitting on a park bench. These notebooks are filled with snippets of dialogue and random thoughts that later find their place in my stories.

What about when I’m on the go?

When I travel, my laptop is never far behind. Being on the move often means new experiences and fresh perspectives, which are goldmines for my writing. I love to sit in a cozy corner of a foreign café, the hum of the city around me, and let the words flow. Plus, with the convenience of modern technology, my phone’s notes app is a lifesaver. I talk into it when I’m on a walk, or even when I’m just lounging at home. It’s perfect for capturing ideas before they slip away.

How do I keep the process relaxed and personal?

I believe that writing should be a natural extension of who you are. For me, this means weaving my personal experiences into my work, making my stories not just entertaining but authentic. Whether it’s a snippet of a heartfelt conversation with a friend or the fleeting emotions of a sunset by the beach, these moments shape my narratives, giving them depth and soul. Being prepared to capture ideas whenever and wherever they come to me is crucial. Inspiration is unpredictable; it strikes at the oddest times and places. By always being ready, I ensure that I never miss out on a potentially great idea. Sometimes, story ideas come to me in my dreams. Also, when I’m really tired and want to go to sleep, brilliant sentences dance inside my mind. I always get up and type them into my phone, because they will be lost in the morning.

What’s my ultimate goal?

My aim is to create stories that feel real, that connect with readers on a personal level. I want my work to be a reflection of the world around us, to celebrate our joys and navigate our struggles with a sense of hope and understanding.

I hope you enjoyed this little peek into my creative process. Writing is an adventure that happens in real time, all around us. Each experience, every conversation, and the constant presence of my writing tools keep my creative juices flowing. It’s a messy, beautiful journey, filled with moments of inspiration and the occasional lack of motivation. Writing makes me happy and has become my biggest hobby.

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Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix

Madeira Island Inspired a Gay Writer

Hey Booklovers!

I love to travel, and one of the most striking locations I’ve been to is the island of Madeira. Madeira island is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, southwest of mainland Portugal and about 400 kilometers (250 miles) north of the Canary Islands. It is part of Portugal. The island’s volcanic origins have created a rugged terrain with steep, forested slopes, deep valleys, and stunning cliffs that drop into the Atlantic Ocean. Madeira’s highest peak is Pico Ruivo, which stands at 1,862 meters (6,109 feet) above sea level.

Nature on Madeira Island is very fascinating. Down by the sea, the weather is hot and dry, but the island is very green with a lot of plants. The reason for this is that the island has high hills where the clouds lose the water they carry when they pass through the thick trees. This water is led down to sea level via man-made irrigation channels that crisscross the hillsides.

My friends and I drove up to one of the hilltops and walked into a beautiful meadow. Up there, the clouds glide over the grass of the hills and you can walk through them. It feels surreal. Like anything could happen. While I was standing there on the hill in the humid air, I thought to myself that I wouldn’t be surprised if a magical creature would suddenly appear.

When we got back to our lovely rented farmhouse (see the photo above), I was eager to put this magical experience into words. The idea of a queer magical creature appearing in front of me popped up in my head. Nothing would be cooler than a fairy godmother granting you one wish, right? As you might know, I love unicorns. The reason might be that I’m a Sagittarius. A Sagittarius is part man, part horse. So for me, the perfect magical creature is a queer unicorn that’s also a hot man. While writing down my first ideas, I listened to one of my favorite songs of all time: “One Night Only” by Beyoncé from the Dreamgirls soundtrack. In the finished story, the Fabulous Fairy Godperson grants the lonely hiker Jaden a wish that lasts for one night only.

“You get one night of perfection. You may have everything you want. But it will only last until dawn.”

The song by Beyoncé always reminds me of one of my favorite movies: Studio 54. I would give anything to be able to spend a night at Studio 54. So naturally, this is the location Jaden chooses for his one night of perfect love.

I’m currently working on the two sequels to SECOND CHANCE WITH TONY, and I feel I never have enough time to dive deeply into the story. While writing short stories I never get these destructive thoughts. Writing short stories feels like a quick win, because I can finish them quicker and still feel I’ve told a complete tale. Now that I think about it, exploring the idea of a whole novel featuring the Fabulous Fairy Godperson would be fun…

You can read the finished short story ONE NIGHT ONLY on my Secret VIP Giveaway Page 😊
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Stay bookish and fabulous,

Felix