Vertical Intercourse

Here, with Vertical Intercourse, comes Paul Reed's long- awaited third novel, a stunning, stylish, and deeply moving tale of nine friends. Set in San Francisco -- with all the haunting lyricism for which Reed is known -- this novel examines the beauty of romance, the challenges of relationships, and confrontations with the past. As the novel opens, the narrator is meeting with his new therapist for the first time, hoping to find meaning as he approaches his fortieth birthday. His rich social life involves an intriguing group of men and women, each filled with enthusiasm and the joy of living fully, despite difficulties and setbacks -- from the ebullient young woman called "Mad Mama," to AIDS patient Michael, and the narrator's housemates and best friend Charlton, an older gentleman with all the wisdom and grace of having seen it all. But the inevitable challenges of life intervene, and each character must confront the meaning of aging in the gay community, of health crises beyond the epidemic, of masculinity, dashed dreams, and hope.