With Muscling Through coming out in 2nd edition today, where else could today’s snippet come from? 😉
In this scene from Chapter 2, Cambridge lecturer Larry takes big Al, who works on the punts, to a University dinner for the first time:
When we walked into this big hall with the fancy woodwork, everyone stared at me and Larry. I wasn’t sure if it was ’cause of me or ’cause we were two poofs, but there was loads of other blokes without girlfriends, so maybe they were used to poofs.
We walked past this tall bloke going bald on top, and he looked at Larry and me and said, “My God! Since when have gorillas been allowed into Hall?”
Larry sort of huffed. “Really, Doctor Hardwicke, one would have hoped that an English don would have been able to come up with something a little more original and pithy.”
I know he said pithy, not pissy. I asked him afterward.
***
Don’t forget to check out the rainbow snippets Facebook group for more little excerpts from a whole host of talented authors.
***
The bigger they come, the harder they fall… in love.
Cambridge art professor Larry Morton takes one, alcohol-glazed look at the huge, tattooed man looming in a dark alley, and assumes he’s done for. Moments later he finds himself disarmed—literally and figuratively. And, the next morning, he can’t rest until he offers an apology to the man who turned out to be more gentle than giant.
Larry’s intrigued to find there’s more to Al Fletcher than meets the eye; he possesses a natural artistic talent that shines through untutored technique. Unfortunately, no one else seems to see the sensitive soul beneath Al’s imposing, scarred, undeniably sexy exterior. Least of all Larry’s class-conscious family, who would like nothing better than to split up this mismatched pair.
Is it physical? Oh, yes, it’s deliciously physical, and so much more—which makes Larry’s next task so daunting. Not just convincing his colleagues, friends and family that their relationship is more than skin deep. It’s convincing Al.
Contains comic misunderstandings, misuse of art materials, and unexpected poignancy.
![locknut_200x300[4]](https://farm1.staticflickr.com/904/40247243490_3a97895e2a.jpg)
JL Merrow 
Loved those last few lines.
❤
Ha! Is it really wise to insult someone who you think looks like a gorilla?
Far be it from me to suggest that some academics are not over-burdened with common sense… 😉
Loved that last line! And love the blurb. I think this will be finding its way too me very soon.
Yay! 😀
Oh ho, great comeback!
❤
I’ve always loved this story! ❤
I like that the new cover is so similar to the old, but I prefer the subtle changes.
Thank you! I’m very pleased with the new cover. If you look closely, you’ll see Al’s arms look ever so slightly bigger in this one. 😉
I adore this book and cannot wait to get hold of the story in paperback. I was wondering is the slight cover changes the only changes to Al and Larry’s tale (as I have always hoped there might be more ❤ )
Thank you! And no, there are no changes to the tale; it’s almost word-for-word identical to the first edition. I don’t think there will be any more to Al and Larry’s story, but as I always say, never say never! 🙂
Wow, this is very witty!
Thanks! 🙂
Yay for second edition and paperback. And now I think I have to go re-read it, because it’s awesome 🙂
Aw, thank you! ❤
I’ve never been to Cambridge, but I have been to the Inns of Court, when I was admitted as a Solicitor. So many stiff upper lips it was a wonder anyone could eat the tiny sandwiches. I can just see them now 😀 Good for Larry!!! I loved the last sentence. The entire snippet shows how sweet and naive Al is. He’s also a bit oblivious, thank goodness!
PS I continue to LOVE your warnings.
Love this. Congratulations on the rerelease!