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“I consider myself a heterosexual man, but the tension between two of the male characters and James’ description of that sexual dam finally breaking…damn. It was an experience.” Yup. Strongly seconded.

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haha highlight of the novel for me

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Amazing write up, Clancy, thanks so much. You totally get the ideas I was going for. I’m grateful you took the time to articulate it and share it with your readers. Love that you discovered the baddies yourself!!

I found James recently through one of your Notes, which are a goldmine for fiction. Gotta check out his novel!

When I change jobs over the summer and have more head space, I aspire to mine Substack fiction in this manner (and reach out to more fiction friends in DMs too, yeah). Not sure I can achieve the witty commentary that goes along with it, but one can try. :)

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my pleasure. can’t wait for more from you Kate. maybe even another with Marie? I know it was hinted at. so glad you found James

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Thanks Clancy. That's the plan. Of course, I've got like 7 books I want to write now so it's just a question of committing to one soon. I found the thriller style really good for me partly because it keeps me from going on too many random tangents. It forces me to be a bit tighter and not be afraid to kill some people off.

Slowly making my way through The Big T. Really like it, and it keeps getting better.

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Planets align in cosmic parades

With Venus direct, Jupiter fades

On Earth life turns wild

Only few will survive

When strange Mr. Mars retrogrades

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Great to see one of these in my inbox. Great to see Kate featured, too.

To my shame, I haven't read any of James' work yet, but that's a great summary and excellent piece quoted. Adding to my list to hopefully eventually get to! :D

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heck yah! buy the paperback if you can

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