Here we are. The final chapter of Brad's story. If you have not read Chapter 18 yet, I wouldn't read this yet. Click here to read the last chapter.
So, I do have thoughts to share. For a few years, Brad seems such a principal character that he deserved his own book. Yet, I didn't know where I would take it. I threw in a line in Book Six, Laramie, about Corey saying, "Brad's in love." I figured if I ever did do a story, that line would be a connection.
As I've said before, I didn't know where to take Brad, so I followed the advice of the old saying, "Write what you know." Growing up a preacher's kid, I thought that might be the place to start. Just like Brad tells his family, Natural Attraction wasn't HIS story, just parts of it, I could say the same thing about Controversy. In this last chapter where Brad is finally "seen" by his mother after watching the play ... I never got that from my mother before she passed.
My original title for the last chapter was "Do Me, Baby." It seemed like I "just needed one more chapter" so many times. I had to keep going back to Prince's portfolio to find a title that would fit. I knew the guys would make love in their new home, so I just gave it that line. But, I hadn't used "Controversy" as a chapter title, so I made the decision to make it full circle. I'm not sure if it was the right call, but I think it works.
Each one of my books has its own unique storytelling quirk — Trent's journal, Lance's AA meetings, Jakob's years, Laramie's mixed narrative, etc. — and more than Brad's chapters being named after Prince songs, I liked using Corey and Aiden as a framing device. Most my readers know that all the stories aren't linear. This one takes place over four years. On page one, Corey and Aiden come home after their freshman year at Notre Dame. In the final pages, we see the boys (now men) a year out of college in Brad and Will's home. I hoped that help readers keep up with the passage of time.
And speaking of our collegians, I have started on the next book — but ONLY started. It will be a while. Book Eleven is Corey and Aiden's return to Notre Dame. It will be called The Sophomore Recordings. If you'd like to be notified of when it drops, send me an email: timothylane414@gmail.com
Heaven knows the last few chapters have given teases of what will happen in the next three books. I've structured it to where no matter what sequence anyone reads one of my stories, if they ever go back to others, it all fits. (And there are a lot of hints!)
My proofreaders (and you know who you are), bless you! I appreciate you so much.
While I step away to work on the next story, you can refresh the boys' freshman year: Book Eight Nifty shortened the title to My Unfortunate Soulmate. As I reviewed it in preparation, I found myself totally aggravated at the occasional errors, which makes me love my proofreaders all the more. I still think you'll enjoy reliving those characters again though.
Until then, be well.
Well, I am so glad Brad got his own story and wow, what a story. I did cry through this chapter at times, especially his conversation with his mother. That still hurts, my own horrible relationship with my mother. So, having resolution there between the two of them was nice to read.
ReplyDeleteI did feel badly about Keith, and his Mom's letter was really a nice touch.
Without sounding so dramatic, it was perfect.
-m.d.
I loved Controversy and how Brads' story unfolded. It was tough to see how this bright and cheery character from previous books had suffered so much in his earlier life and with the betrayal by someone he loved so much. For a while I thought you were going to repeat the Cooper/Mitchel/Laramie conundrum, but no, as usual you take us in an unexpected direction with such a sudden jolt, I think I had whiplash.
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to thank you once again for sharing these wonderful stories and characters with your loyal fans, and I look forward to the next book(s).
S.
I really enjoyed Controversy, just as I have with all the stories you've written around these characters. Brad would never have been one of my favorites, from earlier stories, but he sure is now! I'm so thankful you have the gift for making stories come alive and characters seem like old friends!
ReplyDeleteC.H.
Just finished reading the final chapter. I loved the story and as always I’m left wanting more.
ReplyDeleteI still get so wrapped up in the story telling and really enjoy how you write it.
Look forward to enjoying your new story as much as all the others.
M.W.
I found it moving, engaging, entertaining, rousing.... Count me among your fans.
ReplyDeleteG.
I had just finished a reread of the first nine books when you posted Controversy. That reread reinforced my attachment to Brad as someone in need of hugs and cuddles. Reading about his pain and suffering was emotionally draining.
ReplyDeleteThe high today is-6’ F. Your books warm the heart and I am thankful.
M.B.