The "Naughty," anthology lures you into the private trysts of same sex lovers. Their search, connection and sexual appetites are explored with nothing held back. Short stories present both historical and contemporary experiences, with one or multiple partners, in private or where you’d least expect it.
Here's a peek of what's presented: In "Methods of Preservation" by Julia Talbot she introduces us to Jeremy Davison, a noted classicist and historian who seeks someone rather than an antique in a British Museum. His complaint to the staff lies in the fact that various sculptures are missing appendages, but it's only a diversion to his real interests. Laura Baumbach's "A Bit of Rough" focuses on a chance encounter near a biker bar. James, an architect, felt like doing something different and so ends up in a bar where games were being played, the music was loud and drugs were being sold. He had a one-night stand in mind and a certain Cowboy got his attention and a lot more. Kathleen Dale’s contribution, "Today’s Special," tells of a diner that's serving up more than blue plate specials. Leslie and Candi meet and high tail it over to Leslie's to see exactly why she's not the same old thing that comes into the diner every night. In "Two for the Price of One" Lorne Rodman tells us about Tim's search in a frat house for a quarterback. Not finding what he was looking for he ends up at a bar and meets a man he's instantly attracted to. But sometimes things can get even better. "Not Just Another Day at the Office" by Alex Exley tells us about Don and Justin who are anxious for a little role playing. They met online and couldn't wait to meet in person. "Fine Art" by BA Tortuga, informs us that Josh is determined to steal a popular artist's latest work, but ends up becoming a piece of art himself. And "Personal Shopper" by Kat Cane has Hayne bored to death by his job in an expensive department store until the owner's son approaches him. Personal assistance is exactly what his customer wants.
Another name for this anthology could have easily been "Lust." Each of the stories is about temporary pleasure. Only "Champagne Before Noon" by Cindy Rosenthal hints of a long-term relationship.
This is one of the first gay/lesbian short story collections I've ever read. That's simply because I've seldom received any requests similar to this. I think readers receive quite an education with this up close perspective, but I don't think they should see any of the stories as typical relationships. In reality, there any many same sex relationships that value commitment and love. This particular collection focuses mainly on one-night stands. Also, I think if Torquere Press considers "Naughty II," it should feature an equal amount of lesbian encounters.
Four trysts out of five
© Denise Fleischer, gottawritenetwork.com
July 27, 2006
