Readers on my notification list know that my mother passed
away two weeks ago. She grew up in Kansas. Although she had not lived there in
several years, her gravesite service was there.
As I drove through numerous small towns, I couldn’t help but
think about Laramie’s situation. While he is (obviously!) a fictitious
character, I pictured those like him. I wondered what it would be like to be in
such a small town and know you are gay. Who would you confide in? Who could you
trust? And if you did, and it was received poorly, would you have anyone at all
to turn to if your trust was shattered?
Click here to read Laramie, Chap. 16.
It would be nice to think times have changed, but certain
cultures are fairly dug in. My heart broke for anyone growing up in such a
small town where they had so few options. Not for boyfriends — which, okay,
there’s that — but just the human need to share and confide with someone close
to you.
For me to say this is somewhat misleading though. It’s not
like a grew up in some big city. It was a city, but certainly not
gigantic. It’s not like I talked to a lot of people about things. Of course, I
still debated if I was or wasn’t gay. But there was a friend who certainly
helped bring me to the conclusion that I was.
I am grateful that young people today know that they are not
alone. It’s better, at least. Even those in rural areas can hopefully find
support online, even if they feel cut off out in the farms and ranches. Things
are different, but some feelings always remain the same.
The contrast between families was an overreaching arc to
this chapter. Cooper and Laramie not only help each other weather these
situations, but they are building a depth to their relationship that will serve
them well.
I enjoyed writing this chapter. Laramie’s story continues to
grow, and I think there was much development here. Long chapters are rewarding
to do, but I know that sometimes they are probably too time consuming for
several readers. I’m grateful that you indulge me.
This is a good read! it's nice to continue Laramie and Cooper's story forward, and also good to have the beginning of a change in Larry's feelings about his family, with Cooper's help. I was worried that that situation would cause problems between our two heroes later on. I also think you're writing sex scenes better than the earlier books, I'm enjoying reading them much more in these last two books. Looking forward to where we go with L&C. And who else's story we get to follow. Hugs and love. Jonathan in Tasmania.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to let you know how much I have enjoyed chapters 15 & 16 of Laramie , which you recently posted. I love the long chapters you post, and reading them is like diving deep to the bottom of a pool and surrounding yourself in the great storyline and wonderful characters.
ReplyDeleteWhen I started chapter 15 and saw the timelines, I knew of course that Copper chose Laramie in the end, as described in "Coffee at 9." You would think that with this prior knowledge, I would not have felt so nervous for Laramie in the early part of the chapter. However I was so nervous for him (silly, I know). I guess it's testament to how invested in these two characters I am and the quality of your writing/storytelling.
I loved chapter 16, it is so multilayered and deals with the developing love between Cooper and Laramie, their respective families and how they have previously interacted and how with the support of their partner they find a new level of understanding with their family. I also loved the additional POVs you included for Corey.
As always, please accept my genuine thanks for sharing this story with us.
S.
I am moved and feel so wonderful about Chp16. The meeting of Laramie and his parents and at Philips grave are powerful pictures. May you continue to give joy to all with your writings and your person.
ReplyDeleteI cant express more....
D.
The past few chapters have been wonderful. I am really enjoying reading the continuation of Laramie and Coopers relationship. I’ve loved Laramie as a character from day one so it’s such a treat seeing him so happy. Love all your stories. You are a great writer. My condolences on the loss of your mother.
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