It’s the last day to get inside the head of more of our anthology authors as they share what it means to be them to be part of the LGBTQ+ reading/writing community. Tomorrow is release day of our free anthology!
“I have been part of this community for nearly twenty years now, and I consider it a gift. How lucky am I to have been surrounded by so many amazing people who love stories in all their vast and vivacious forms? From Radclyffe, who took a chance on someone eager but totally untested, to working beside my wife as we continue to help writers all over the world develop their craft, to speaking with readers who felt my books on an almost existential level, this world of tale-spinning among other queer folk is something truly magnificent. Long may it continue. ”
Brey Willows
“Privileged is the first word I think of when asked how I feel about being. part of this community. The support, camaraderie, and kinship is something very special in a world where real connection is hard to come by. And these books are especially important for young people as they grow and learn that it’s okay to be whoever and whatever they are, to see themselves reflected in our stories, to know that they can be happy, and successful, and fulfilled. We’re connected through the power of words, across oceans, continents, and cultures. That’s phenomenal, and I love being a part of making that happen.”
Robyn Nyx
“I was pretty lost when I discovered LGBTQ+ fiction in my twenties, and it gave me a profound feeling of coming home. It took me a few years longer to find sapphic fiction mainly because my English wasn’t good enough to read a whole novel. Instead, I started to type sapphic short stories in my own language in a hidden document on my computer. It was something I could revisit when I felt lost and lonely. Back then, I never thought I had the courage to tell anyone about what I was doing, much less ever publish a short story. Now this will be my fourth short story with LesFic Eclectic and the sense of family and community my fellow authors and readers provide are invaluable.”
Lee Haven
“Being part of the sapphic readers community has given me access to stories which validate my identity and reflect queer experiences. As a debut author, I hope to bring some of that relatable drama and romance through my stories. I want to write heart-warming tales of connection for queer people – wherever they are.”
Jo Fletcher
“The LGBTQ+ writing and reading community is to me a warm, positive tribe. One that, slowly, I have come to feel at home in. Quick to cheer each other on, to celebrate success, and generous with their time and expertise. Also, quick to form a defensive line when an author or reader is having troubled times.
This year has been a difficult one at times for me, and my tribe within a tribe, the Butterworths gang, have gathered around and offered support in whatever way that they can. A quick “how are you doing?” or a big box of delicious brownies. I have nestled warm in their comfort and been propped up by the strength of their positivity.
On a wider front, I have seen sections of our community denigrated in the media and threatened by politicians. I have seen many authors and readers rally to their side, and I have never been prouder. This wonderful tribe of ours continues to show it is committed to standing up for every letter of LGBTQ+, and that feels wonderful.”
AJ Mason
Thanks for hopping on our blog train this week. Look out for our final journey tomorrow which will include the link to your free collection of amazing stories from our fantastic authors!
Hugs,
Robyn and Brey
Sign up to our monthly Butterworth Books newsletter for book giveaways, author exclusive previews, cover reveals, and quality LGBTQ literature.
Butterworth Books 