Every Chance to Stay

I am supposed to retire.

One final performance. One last lip synch. A tasteful exit before forty turns me into that queen. Mabel Syrup is drag royalty. Firefly welcomes her with open arms. Mike, on the other hand, is shy and awkward.

The problem is, he is me. I am Mike.

Then a buttoned up CEO walks into Firefly, enamored by a town trying to throw its first pride parade. He’s closeted and achingly ordinary. He thinks Mike is the bravest man in the world, living as his authentic self. He’s not looking at Mabel. He’s looking at Mike.

Did I mention I have no idea who I am anymore?

Firefly wants majestic and mouthy Mabel. He wants whoever I am underneath the performance. I’m not sure those are different people anymore. I’m scared if I give the town what it wants, I’ll scare off Mr. CEO. He’s not ready to see me in all my drag glory.

Because maybe Mabel isn’t the mask. Maybe she’s part of my truth.

Paperback Edition

• 6 × 9  Perfect Bound, Gloss Finish
• 344 Pages

Hardback Edition

• 6 × 9 Case Laminate, Gloss Finish
• 344 Pages
• Signed Collector’s Bookplate (mailed separately)