The message that made me cry…
A few months ago I got a message from ‘Michael’ about Pitch. I had gotten a few before this, mostly saying they enjoyed the story. Michael’s was different, though. His letter made me proud of something I had accomplished. In all honesty, the letter made me cry (a good cry, don’t get me wrong). With his permission, I’m sharing the letter with you.
Please suspend your “royal status” as the guru of the YA gay novelists for a moment. (I say that in a complimentary way). I hope you read this as if it was your first of many words of praise. My words are genuine and are full of praise.
I’m writing to thank you for the joy I’ve had in reading your book “Pitch”. I guess you could say I’m as closeted as you can get and living in a small (and small minded) Mississippi town. Growing up as an army brat, I’ve lived in many places. Unfortunately, these moves were frequent. Stationed at one place for a year or so, and then moving on to the next. I’ve met many friends but never was able to form a bond with others that most children naturally have in their adolescent and young adult lives. ( Sounds just like Jax). As timing would have it, my high school graduation in 1985 was immediately followed by my dad’s army retirement and a final trip home the next week to Mississippi. Not the best place to come out to the world that you are gay. So I never did. I managed to have a relationship so similar to that of Taylor and Jackson in “Pitch” that I had to write to you (I know you get tired of hearing the same thing from all your fans). I was “Taylor Andrews” without exception and “Jackson Kern” was a neighborhood boy from my home town and “coincidentally” ended up as my roommate my freshman year in college. A secret love started and the rest is history. (sounds like a book to me doesn’t it?). Sadly, my “Jax” died tragically one year later from a head on collision. A driver of an 18 wheeler feel asleep at the wheel. Thankfully, he died instantly. So you can imagine how pleased I was to relive that part of my life through your great work in “Pitch”. I’m truly a new and loyal fan.
So now of course, I am anxiously awaiting to read the follow up “Wet Paint”. When will it be available and will it be available for Kindle? Is it possible to purchase and autographed copy of “Pitch”? I’m not your typical designated YA reader but I’m definitely a big fan. After reading your first book I have to keep you living in the lifestyle you’re accustomed so I can’t wait to purchased ”Wet Paint”. I fell in love with Jax, Taylor and Benny. I didn’t want Jax and Taylor’s love to EVER end. However, I was in love with Benny so much I wanted Taylor to have an epiphany moment and fall for Benny also. ( I know I can’t have it both ways but still….but what a problem to have. right?). I’m sure I’m not the only one who fell in love with Benny. It’s gonna be hard to see him with Addy and not Taylor. But, who wouldn’t love Addy …I can definitely see Benny and Addy together now that you want let Benny pine over his best friend. If I had my way I would of had Benny come out to Taylor and profess his love for him….then they have a attempt at something sexual…… but come to the conclusion they are meant to be best friend forever and don’t want to jeopardize the love they already have for each other.( I could live with that maybe…) See….you have me believing these characters are my friends. That’s great writing! Seriously though will your book has given me the courage to begin living life without reservation. I’m tired of hiding in that “big ass closet”. Although I’m not out yet, I know it’s slowly coming to fruition and I owe that to you. I refuse to live the rest of my life for others and never experience what love can bring. (Sounds sappy huh? Sorry). Thanks again for your book Will. If ever you are in Mississippi (LOL………) I’d love to give you the “grand tour” of Tupelo, Mississippi, the birthplace of Elvis Presley. Better yet, I’d love to take you to an alumni tail-gate party while attending an Ole Miss Football game. There’s nothing like it. HOTTY TODDY!
I hope you know how much your gift of writing has touched us all and how grateful we are for having read them.
My best wishes for your continued success,
Michael