“Rekindling” Accepted for Publication in It Takes Two

You might have already heard if you follow me on social media, but my fantasy erotica short story “Rekindling” has been chosen for publication in It Takes Two, an erotica anthology by Cleis Press dedicated to couples.

After she finally rejoined him at Quiet Cove following the birth of their daughter, Earc Mac Toghda figured his bond with Arlise could only grow stronger. But when she shuts him out and shies away from intimacy, he knows something is wrong. Something deeper than the usual trials and tribulations of first-time parenthood.

Desperate to heal this wound in their love before it festers, Earc decides to return to the place where it all began. A place guaranteed to rekindle their passion…

“Rekindling” is definitely a departure from my typical subject matter. This is only my second finished piece of erotica, so an acceptance from a figure as prominent in the genre as Rachel Kramer Bussel is flattering beyond words. Exploring postpartum body image issues and how a couple keeps their love life alive after becoming parents was a really interesting experience as an author, but I seriously doubted my work would hold up against stories from more experienced authors.

Thankfully, my fears were all for naught.

Even though she isn’t the POV character, this story–and “Enough”, which covers the start of their relationship–is a reward of sorts for Arlise. My most prolific character has been ruined, redeemed, widowed, and scarred both mentally and physically. After so much suffering, she deserves a little happiness.

It Takes Two is currently set for release in Early 2023–January, maybe?–but I probably won’t have a specific date for a while. Certainly not until the editing process is finished. Once I do, there will definitely be an announcement.