Mike P.

Chicago

Dec 2004

"I recently purchased your two novels at Unabridged Books in Chicago. Words cannot begin to express the feelings unraveling inside me as I read about the developing relationship between Scott and Ryan. Your characters are so detailed and so skillfully drawn as to be VERY realistic and believable!

Reading these books helped me to see and understand some facets of my life that I had stopped dealing with a long time ago. (I am 51). The "Crawford" character was me 20+ years ago. I especially appreciated how you brought out that Scott had to deal with Ryan's past (and all Ryan's manifestations of it) and that Scott was in no way prepared to understand all the baggage that went with him. Yeah, love is good, the sex is fun, but getting down to building a RELATIONSHIP that's going to last. . .now the work begins!

The fact that you surrounded Scott with support by allies and friends he didn't know anything about was especially heartwarming, too. I can only hope and pray that young GLBT teens can find similar safe friends to be completely themselves with and comfortable opening up with. I read once that "True friendship begins when one person looks at another and says "You, too? I thought I was the only one!" I could identify with Ryan in that suicide was an option when I was in my early 20's and "I was the only one."

I look forward to reading more of your work and recommending it to friends both young and old. Thank you so very much for writing that has moved me tremendously. I CARED about these characters!

With all warm regards."

Randy W.

Columbus, GA

Dec, 2004

"Hi. I am almost finished reading DESERT SONS but I wanted to go ahead and tell you how great I think it is. I have rarely read gay fiction with teens that was enjoyable as this book. I have the sequel set aside and ready. I saw the books listed on Amazon.com and had a strong desire to try them out and man, am I glad that I did! I am really looking forward to reading your science fictions book as well. Thanks so much!!

I would like to send these two to get signed if you wouldn't mind doing it for me."

Ryan S.

SoCal

Oct 2004

"Dear Mr. Kendrick,

I'm half way through Desert Sons and I love this book! I laugh, I cry, I feel what they feel and can relate to their experiences. I'm 24 and have been out a year. I grew up in San Diego and my family used to visit Joshua Tree every year with a number of other families that we knew. It's amazing to read a story set so close to home.  Anyway, I cannot wait to finish it. I'll have to go buy the sequel when I'm done, too. This would make such a sweet movie!  Thank you for writing such a touching novel."

Dan B.

Lawrenceville, GA

Oct 2004

"Hi Mark!  I would love to have you autograph my copy of Desert Sons, and Into This World We're Thrown.  I just recently bought Desert Sons, read through it in a day or two, and now I just got Into This World We're Thrown, yesterday, and now I am almost finished. I can not stop reading it!  I was also curious how much of the content was what you went through in your own life?  You seem to be able to tell the story as though you went through it, especially in Ryan's character.  I feel as if I'm reading a book based on a true story.  I also wanted to commend you for blending excellent storylines, and erotic content.  So few books do  both!"

Dan F.

Brisbane, Australia

Sept 2004

"Greetings from Brisbane, Australia.

I have just finished reading your two books - Desert Sons and Into This World We're Thrown.  Now I can get on with life! I just about put my life on hold as I devoured these two books. They were sensational. I laughed and cried and lived along with the characters as they came alive to me.

It really is wonderful what love can do in our lives if we are prepared to let ourselves be loved and love in return. It may be a rocky journey for awhile but the end result is well worth the beginning. And, as the people in your books experienced, stay in the closet is not an option. That is not living at all.

There are so many great writings at the moment that explore love from all its angles. And the ones who are truly happy are those who live life to the fullest- as it is meant to be lived. And those who decide otherwise pay the price."

Frisco O.

August 2004

"Dear Mark Kendrick,

You are in fact the most amazing and excellent writer I have ever come to know and love. I had just turned eighteen, and I wish to become a writer as well. On my birthday, my boyfriend of three years left me. It really took a toll on me, so I was feeling really depressed. Anyway, my best friend went out and bought me both Desert Sons and Into This World We're Thrown. As soon as I got them I would always go out on my deck on a beautiful nice and peaceful day and would read the book. These two books were the only ones, out of hundreds I have read recently, that made me feel like I was actually watching a real-life event happening before my eyes. I was so impressed with the love that Scott and Ryan shared. I loved both of these books so much, that I was afraid to finish the last one. Finally, I did, and I was sad that I would no longer be reading a sequel to Into This World We're Thrown. I love what you had done, and has even encouraged me to start writing again, after the great sadness my last love left upon me.  Take care."

Megan R.

August 2004

"I have read Desert Sons and Into This World We're Thrown at least six times. They are absolutely my fav books of all time. I would never have read them if it weren't for my best friend who recently came out to me. I decided to read your books so maybe I could know a little about what he was feeling. They really did help me and him. You're books are wonderful. You're a great writer and I hope that when I pursue my career in writing I'll be at least half the writer you are. Do you think that you'll ever write more about Scott and Ryan, I mean when I was getting near the end of Into This World Were Thrown It really felt like two of my best friends were leaving me.

With much love and respect,

Megan"

[Megan wins the prize.  She read these novels 6 times?!]

Gary M.

August 2004

"Mr. Kendrick,

I just finished reading Desert Sons and Into This World We're Thrown, and I just wanted to let you know how much appreciate that you wrote those novels.

This was my second reading and I enjoyed them as much as the first time I read them.  I don't know what to really say to you except thank you and I hope you will once again write about Ryan and Scott or about some other young teenage couple.”

Orte F.

August 2004

"I enjoyed Desert Sons and Into This World We're Thrown very much. Are you going to do a third part to the story? That would be great! Great and vivid writing. Best regards. Orte."

Mike F.

South Dakota

August 2004

"Hey,

Where to start? Two days ago I finished "Into This World We're Thrown" after reading "Desert Sons" and I was blown away. It was the first book that I have ever read that brought out so many different emotions in me. Madness, sadness, happiness. You name it, I felt it while reading these two books. The way you wrote the books made me feel like I actually knew Scott and Ryan. You are are on my favorite list of authors. I will definitely read your other books.

Some other things i would like to you about would be the observation of me (and I'm sure many others) saying what a good movie these two books would make! They have all of the elements of a good movie! There are not many books I have read that I could say that about.

I am so excited to get "Stealing Some Time" in the mail. I honestly never have been a big fan of sci-fi books but thanks to you I am going to try."

Mark F.

England

Aug 2004

"I finished reading Desert Sons & Into This World We're Thrown a couple of weeks ago. I still haven't stopped crying whenever I think about it.

The enduring image the books left with me was the photo of Scott (in his graduation gown) with Ryan just staring at him - even though I've obviously never seen it I can feel the love between them from your description of that picture and of Elaine's reaction to it.

It surprised me to learn the effect and emotional impact a book can have - I've read many books with similar themes but I have never been left with the same feelings after finishing them. For me at least, I think this may be because the book builds, very gradually, to the realisation that the love between them transcends all other aspects of their relationship. Up until the last 100 pages of ITWWT it could be teenage infatuation but it eventually convinces you that it is so much more.

However I expect a film will never be able to do it justice.

Thank you very much."

Paul T.

Aug. 2004

"Mr. Kendrick, I just wanted to thank you for your great books Desert Sons and Into This World We're Thrown. I really enjoyed them, and you've gotten me hooked on an entire new genre of fiction. I can't thank you enough for the stories of Scott and Ryan.  I know you've said on your website that the characters haven't been speaking to you lately, but I'm hoping that's changed. Is there any chance we'll be seeing more of Scott and Ryan in the near future? I think seeing them in college, exposed to new ideas and new people, not all of whom would necessarily want them to stay together, and seeing them (hopefully) survive into full adulthood together would be a great continuation of their story.  In the meantime, thanks again for giving us these characters that we've come to know and to love." [I have no plans to continue Scott and Ryan's story for now. - Mark]

Lindsay R.

New Jersey

July 2004

"I just finished reading "Into this World We're Thrown" after I had sped through "Desert Sons." It was just by chance that I picked up the book and I can't be happier that I did so. I've revealed my adoration of these two books to my friends - however strange it may be that I'm a 16 year old straight girl. Perhaps it's because I live in a place where homosexuality is smothered and hidden. My parents don't condone the idea at all, and have never allowed me to argue the fact that I think it is okay. The book warmed my heart with the tale of love, and I grew to admire Scott and Ryan and love them as well. Ryan's bout with depression struck a chord with me, and I truly appreciated your ability to capture the ups and downs of relationships so well. I was kept on the edge of my seat because you didn't resolve the fight for so long but it made the book all the better. When I finished that last page of "Into this World We're Thrown" I just sat there with a huge grin on my face. I only wish that the whole world was more open to love, no matter what you are."

Danny R.

July 2004

"Hi Mark,  I just read your book Into this World Were Thrown. I thought it was one of the most wonderful books I have ever read. It gave me great inspiration and it covered a lot of what I went through growing up.  I plan on buying all of your books.  Thanks for the great work. With highest respect,  Danny"

Tim S.

Racine, WI

July 2004

"Dear Mark, I just finished the Stealing Some Time series. I loved it. I've read your other works, as well, but this series really touched me. Words cannot describe the joy I felt for Kallen and Aaric. I only wish that ALL people could find such love!  Thanks for your stories. They're great!"

Paul W.

SoCal

June 2004

"Have to admit, I bought Desert Sons because of the cover.  Something about that pic that just made me want to own it.  Once I got started reading the story, I was hooked.  Living in LA and traveling to the desert areas, I can relate to a bit of the surrounds, but not all.  I really liked the story and look forward to reading the next installment.  After that, I will have to check out your other books.  Thanks very much for writing a great story."

John P.

Reston, VA

June 2004

"Hi,  I just want to drop you a note and let you know I really enjoy all your novels.  I just finished the Stealing Some Time trilogy and it was excellent.  It would be nice to believe that a future like the one at the end of Book III is still a possibility and not the more likely original future that Kallen was actually from.  We hope for the best I guess.  Anyhow keep the excellent stories coming, I have my eye out for the next one!  Best Wishes."

Jack C.

Florida

June 2004

"Hi Mark, I recently discovered your web site and read DESERT SONS & INTO THIS WORLD WE'RE THROWN which I think are outstanding stories. Unlike many gay stories on the Internet they are realistic and the sex scenes are tasteful. I am looking forward to reading the other stories on your site. I hope you will find the inspiration and time to write about S

cott & Ryan's college years and then on into their professional lives. It is a pleasure to read your writing, thank you."

Ben M.

Dallas, TX

May 2004

"I'm honestly not sure where to start which is a change for me.  First, the novels were simply beautiful.  I read Desert Sons on Sunday and read Into This World yesterday.  I honestly did not want the book to end.  So many emotions flowed through my mind and body while reading these book.  I could go on and on about your novels, but I doubt that I could add anything new to what you've already heard.  Thank you for sharing the novels with the rest of us."

Cy from NYC

May 2004

"I recently bought and read your books Desert Sons and Into this world.  I wanted to write and say that I enjoyed them very much. I am looking forward to getting and reading Stealing Some Time series as I am a sci fi reader as well.  I hope that you continue writing and continue to find readers. The mark of a good book in my opinion is that you still want to know what happened to the characters after the book ends, and so I still want another book about Ryan and Scott and their friends and family. And that's how I know it was good :) Just wanted to drop an email to you.  Thanks for the read."

Jesse G.

from near Brownsville,  Texas

May 2004

"Hi Mark! My name is Jesse. I'm 18 and I live in Texas. I just wanted to say that I read Desert Sons and Into This World We're Thrown, and OMG they were the best books I've ever read! I couldn't put them down. I just kept on reading and reading. They gave me a lot of inspiration and courage, me being in the closet for a long while. After reading your books they gave me the courage to come out.  I really got close to your characters Ryan and Scott because I could relate to them. I only wish there was another book coming about them because to tell you the truth, as I was finishing Into This World We're Thrown I didn't want it to end.  I felt really sad cause I was finishing it. I really loved both books and I  think -- no I know -- you're an inspiration to all who have read your books. I'm beginning to read Book One of Stealing Some Time and again I can't seem to put it down. It's just amazing!  Lastly I wanted to thank you for writing these books because of you I'm happy with my life now and proudly say that I'm gay! Thanks a whole bunch Mark! Good luck on everything you do and hopefully there will be more amazing books in the future. Take care of yourself."

Matt R.

Chico, CA

Apr 2004

"Mr. Kendrick~

I just read your novel Desert Sons, and I had to send you an email letting you know that I could not put it down.  I was so moved by your book.  It was amazing at how much I could relate to both Scott and Ryan and apply their characteristics to people I have encountered in my life.  Your story seemed so real to me that I forgot I was reading a book. 

I cannot wait to read Into This World We're Thrown and see how it all ends.  Thank you so much for this wonderful novel."

Gardner R.

Rohnert Park, CA

April 2004

"I just finished Desert Sons and Into This World We're Thrown.   And although I agree with some of the criticisms voiced on Amazon, I was profoundly moved by this story.  I read Sons straight through, checked the end of World to make sure it ended happily, then read it all the way through.  I then reread the whole story, then reread the last five or six chapters again. I'll probably reread them again tonight.  Experiencing the process through which the two boys realize their love for each other somehow just grabbed me, especially given how different they are and the roadblocks they experience on the way.  I think the dialog and the laying out of the psychology of the two boys is excellent and believable. I am glad you took your time in letting their relationship unfold.   It was really strange to reread the story.  Although I knew how it was going to turn out, I think I reacted even more strongly the second and third times than the first.  Most strange to me was my reaction to the section in which Scott made out with someone other than his Ryan.  I was angry, I was sad.  I swore out loud at Scott.  I felt such betrayal.  I think I need to see my shrink again.  What was Kevin's address?

I don't really know what's going on with me re. these stories.  Part of it is sheer escape.  But there's some hole in me that these stories fill, at least temporarily.  So at least in fantasy, there are beautiful love relationships that end happily, thanks to writers such as you, Donaghe, and a few others.

Many have commented on the amount of sex there is in this story. Scott's ever hard dick, Ryan's oodles of pre-come, and their combined multiple orgasms are glandularly stimulating alright. There are plenty of one-handed reads out there that serve no other purpose than this. But what really moves me in Sons and World are the moments of tenderness and affection between the two boys. My favorite character is Ryan. His struggles and breakthroughs throughout the book are very moving and real to me, almost painfully so. When he says to Scott, after describing the darkness and current he is swimming against just to stay alive, "And every once in a while when I see you, or touch you," he reached out and touched Scott's face, "it's like you're a life vest and I can...feel my heart smiling," I cry like a baby. Another place I love is where, at the beginning of chapter 14, he can finally say to Scott, "I love you." He has fought his way to this realization, and it was such excellent plotting that you waited so long in the story for that to take place. Each time Ryan takes a little step towards liberation from his past, I feel like shouting "Yea Ryan, that'a way."

Expressions of acceptance of the boys' being gay by their relatives and friends have a similar effect on me. Perhaps my sensitivity to this comes from my never having had, or given myself, this acceptance, certainly not at their age.  One device that keeps me engaged from the moment they meet to the end are the questions of whether Scott will overcome his reservations about Ryan and Ryan will conquer his demons. One testament to your writing is that the works are even more enjoyable on the second and third time through. As nice as it would be to follow their lives beyond World, I think you are right. You'd have to come up with some conflict, which would probably be forced or predictable—infidelity, for instance. And you already did that one.

Thanks for this beautiful story.

I love science fiction and I've ordered your three works in that genre. It's great to have my two favorite subjects combined in one story."

Ryan F.

Chicago

April 2004

"I just finished "Into this world we're thrown", and wow.  I don't think I have been so connected to characters ever.. and no author other than amy tan has ever induced tears while reading.  It was an amazing ride with Scott and Ryan, I am sad that it is over (for now?). I do wish that your Ryan and this Ryan were not so much alike.. our epiphanies are eerie.  Anyway, I just wanted to thank you for yet another amazing book."

Tom V.

April 2004

"I just wanted to take a minute to express how wonderful I think your novels are.  I've re-read them many times and enjoyed them immensely just as much as the first time.  I'm looking forward to new novels in the future.  Even better, your writing has sparked my old love of the art, too.  I just finished a rough draft and beginning the rewrites.  It's only a hobby at this point but a great one anyway.  Thank you for the inspiration!

Best wishes for a prosperous and loving future!!!"

Ray N.

Scottsdale, AZ

Mar 2004

"Thank you so much for sharing your story. I just completed Desert Sons and struggled to read slower to make the story last a little longer. I wasn't ready to leave Scott and Ryan. But I got excited again when I read that there is a sequel. I'm disappointed that I don't have the sequel at hand to jump into right away.  I stumbled across your book at the public library. Unfortunately, they don't carry the sequel so I've ordered both books to add to my own collection.

I manage to read about ten books a month (on average) from a variety of genres, both fiction and non-fiction. Very few are put on the "recommended list". Your book will be one at the top.

Again, thank you for sharing your story. I look forward to seeing your name in print soon."

Brian C.

San Jose, CA

Mar 2004

"I just finished reading the Stealing Some Time trilogy, and I must say that I loved it. It had very good character development. I really enjoyed learning about Kallen, and getting to know him. I really enjoyed how you were commenting on several problems, not just a social, but an environmental one as well. It definitely followed in the footsteps of [Frank] Herbert.

I was taken back at first, because it was such a departure from your other books. This was not a coming out story, but a science-fiction story with a main character who happened to be gay. I really enjoyed that aspect. I guess that I should have expected that, because it never intended to be a coming out story.

I was extremely happy to find the same character development in all of your books. I also like how you kept up two story lines, with out completely neglecting one for the other. And it was very easy to know what was going on and not get confused as to when certain events were occurring relative to each other."

Robert P.

Maryland

Feb 2004

"I just finished reading both DESERT SONS and INTO THIS WORLD WE'RE THROWN, and thoroughly enjoyed both.  Even though I am far too old, I enjoy reading "coming of age" or "coming out stories" because growing up in the '40's and 50's no one was allowed to be "themselves".  Or, if you were you faced untold amounts of discrimination.  To be homosexual was to be almost the worst thing possible.  Thanks again for these great novels!!!"

Ryan F.

Chicago

Feb 2004

"I just bought and read "Desert Sons". Wow! I don't even know how else to describe it. You have such an amazing gift for making your characters "in living color" in the mind of the reader. You had such a good balance of story line that the sex (very well written as well!!) did not detract from the story at all, but enhanced it. That is something I have rarely found in gay fiction.. the sex tends to just derail any plot.

I have to say, your Ryan could have so easily been me when I was 18, it was a bit tough to read at times, too much of my past coming back. In the end though, you gave us such a wonderful book, I am ordering your other books today on Amazon.

Thank you for giving the world such a great place to visit!"

Richard F.

Pennsylvania

Feb 2004

"Just finished reading Desert Sons and thoroughly enjoyed it.  So much so that I plan on buying the sequel.  I was kind of on pins and needles though throughout most of the book just waiting for Ryan to get Scott in trouble - big time.  Ryan has such a bad boy persona.  Especially compared to Scott who is almost too good, though obviously easily led.  Great characterization and location descriptions.  Really good. Looking forward to purchasing the next book."

Anthony C.

Farnborough, Hampshire, England

Jan 2004

"I have just spent the weekend reading the above two novels (Desert Sons and the sequel), and I must congratulate you on these works.  I was unable to put them down until both were read.  I notice that you have a sci-fi trilogy. Although not a sci-fi fan I shall give them a chance since you have given me value with Desert Sons and Into This World We're Thrown.  May the ink in your pen never run dry.  Good luck in everything you do."

---------

"Have just spent the entire weekend reading these two books a second time. They are amazing in the detail they contain. They actually give me the feeling that I'm interacting with the characters.  Once again all the best to you and yours. Regards."

Frank

Jan 2004

Near London

"It is 2.25 am and I have just finished Into This World We're Thrown.  It was one of the most compelling books I have ever read.  I am so pleased that it has halted on a happy note as so many others made me cry and had unhappy endings. I really hope that one day you will share with us what life brings for Scott and Ryan.  They are two guys I have grown to love. I would also like to say that you are such a fine story teller.  You must be a wonderful guy to be able to write like this with such feeling.  Your partner is very lucky to have you and I am sure that he is of the same mould as you so you are so lucky to have him.  I congratulate you on these two awesome works. Thank you.  I better try and get some sleep now."

Fritz A.

Jan 2004

XXXXX, New Mexico

"I love your books. I just finished Desert Sons and I drove right down to Albuquerque to pick up Into this World We are Thrown. I just can't put it down.

I am the choir teacher and Gay-Straight Alliance Sponsor at XXXXX High School in XXXXX, New Mexico. At our next meeting, I am going to give a report on your books and I will buy copies for the kids. Thank you for your artistry, soul, and fine work.  Thank you for touching my life."

Frank

Jan 2004

Near London

"My name is Frank and I'm writing to you from England. I have just discovered your book "Desert Sons".  I'm finding it to be almost spiritual. I cannot put it down, and on seeing your web site I now see you have done a sequel. I am going to buy this straight away.

I just want to thank you for your writing. You are a very talented guy.  I've read a lot over the past year and indeed have written my first novel - not a patch on yours - but I did it for my friends.  Luckily they all seem to like it.  Once again I thank you from the bottom of my heart. When I get the next book I would love to get you to sign it for me."

Amrys M.

Jan 2004

Melbourne, Vict., Aust.

"I'm a 15 year old girl named Amrys. I live in Melbourne Australia but I'm American. Over my Christmas Holidays I went to America with my family to visit family and friends. I stumbled across your books Desert Sons and Into This World We're Thrown. Then I heard about Stealing Some Time and then I was REALLY pissed off because I couldn't find them in any bookstore in Australia, I can only order them over the Internet. Do you think there is any way you can help me in locating copies of your books? If so I would be SOOOO happy. Also about Into This World We're Thrown, oh my god!!!! What a great movie this would make!!!! It fully plays in my head like a movie and would make such a GOOD movie!!!! Anyway I better go.  Thanks for reading this!"

Ronald R.

California

Jan 2004

"I need to say that I have not read very many sci-fi books in my life so I was skeptical about the time I would spend reading SST.

WOW!!!!!!!!  Kallen and Aaric--what a great pair of heroes.  I read the entire trilogy while on Christmas break. Not that it takes me two weeks to read something as good as this, but considering I had holiday obligations to deal with I did good.  I think you have out done yourself.  I know that you have not of course.  I know that there are more where these came from. Keep up the good work. I will have to add Kallen and Aaric to my growing list of friends, who include Ryan and Scott."