Books
Small Sacrifices
First job. First love. First… political scandal?
Fresh out of college, Reid needs to prove himself. With an internship in the office of the Governor of California, he’s off to a great start. It’s difficult, but Reid manages. Even in the face of distractions like the governor’s son Everett, whom he runs into suspiciously often.
But then, a scandal connects the governor to several sick children and a cover-up, and Reid has to start asking questions. Has he put his trust in the wrong person? What is he supposed to do now? And why the hell does Everett keep trying to talk to him?
This is a gay romance about standing up for yourself and standing up for what’s right. It features: A golden retriever love interest with a slight alcohol problem, adhd and autism representation, and siblings taking care of each other.
Content Warnings
Those of you who would like content warnings can find them below the following image. You can toggle them on and off to receive more information. Please keep in mind that there are spoilers ahead!
Family Violence (mentioned)
Everett has been physically abused by his father in the past. During the run of the story, he is beaten up by his by his father and injured to the point he has to get checked out in the hospital. It is also implied that Everett doesn’t leave because he’s afraid the focus of his father’s violence would then shift onto his younger sibling.
Homophobia (mentioned)
Despite his outwardly progessive politics, Everett’s father doesn’t want his own children to be queer. He polices their behavior and punishes transgressions, sometimes violently. His stated reason for this is that it will make him less palatable to voters, which will make him less able to help people. But really, he’s just an asshole.
Sexual Harassment (mentioned)
Marisol is explicitly told that she will need to have sex with Mr. Wright in order to advance in her job. She never seriously considers it, but ew.
Child Death (mentioned)
An elementary school-aged child dies of kidney failure. This is because of the pesticide-contaminated soil in his schoolyard.
Drag Kings (mentioned)
One of my early readers thought I was misgendering drag queens and came to their defense. It was very sweet. I just thought you might get a kick out of that.
(No drag king actually appears on the page, I’m sorry to say.)
Ableism
Reid’s parents absolutely refuse to believe he might be autistic. Since he is still on their insurance and has no independent income, that means he can’t get tested without getting in trouble with them. Still, they see how he struggles. Their interpretation is as follows: He’s “too sensitive” and close to incapable of living independently. They want him back home to “support him.” For now, they still financially support him as he tries to establish himself.