At the end of my holiday novella, Counting Fence Posts, Henry invites Marc back to his parents’ place for Christmas. Actually, it’s less invitation, more assumption, but Marc doesn’t object. After two days of haunting the lobby of a crowded hotel outside Albany, they’re finally on their way back to Boston. (6000 words)
If aliens ever do land on Earth, Kelly will not be prepared, despite having read over a hundred stories of the apocalypse. Still, she will pack her precious books into a box and carry them with her as she strives to survive. It’s what bibliophiles do.
Kelly is the author of twelve novels–including the Chaos Station series, co-written with Jenn Burke–and several novellas and short stories. Some of what she writes is speculative in nature, but mostly it’s just about a guy losing his socks and/or burning dinner. Because life isn’t all conquering aliens and mountain peaks. Sometimes finding a happy ever after is all the adventure we need.
I liked how hopeful, and yet tentative, the story portrays the aftermath of being stuck together for so long and starting a relationship under such circumstances. That the guys are going to make an effort to be together...to see where things go.
Marc goes home with Henry for Christmas and it “Might have been the nicest Christmas I’ve ever had. The two realise that the attraction from the car is still there and decide to keep exploring.
Part of the Counting series that is best enjoyed when read in order:
It’s the What Happened Next? Which is Henry’s dad driving to get them, and drive them home. Mac gets to experience Christmas at Henry’s house, even it is just for a long day. A case of poor little rich boy vs the warmth and care of the poorer home. A reassuring link in the story of Henry and Marc
I actually liked this one better than the first book, and it's got me curious and looking forward to the next! I appreciated getting a bit of Marc's POV here.