#AC Repair Texas

[aatempcoairguide]

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Our certified technicians ensure reliable and energy-efficient installations, repairs, and maintenance services, keeping your indoor climate comfortable all year round. At AA Tempco, customer satisfaction is our priority, and we strive to deliver prompt, professional service with every job. Contact us today to experience the difference in HVAC care!

[hvacinspection]

Why Dallas, TX, Residents Choose HVAC Maintenance Plans

Living in Dallas, Texas, means experiencing various weather conditions throughout the year, from scorching summers to chilly winters. In such climates, having a reliable HVAC system is crucial for maintaining comfort. While many homeowners in Dallas understand the importance of keeping their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in top condition, not all know the significant benefits of HVAC maintenance plans.

The Importance of HVAC Maintenance Plans

HVAC maintenance plans are comprehensive service agreements offered by reputable HVAC companies to ensure the optimal functioning of your heating and cooling systems. These plans typically include regular inspections, tune-ups, and necessary repairs to keep your HVAC system operating efficiently and extend its lifespan.

For residents of Dallas, where HVAC systems often work overtime to combat extreme temperatures, investing in a maintenance plan can be a game-changer. Here's why:

Improved Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained HVAC system operates more efficiently, lowering energy bills. By regularly cleaning and tuning your system, technicians can identify and address issues causing it to work harder than necessary, ultimately saving you money on utility costs.

Enhanced Comfort: Dallas summers can be brutally hot, and winters can bring unexpected cold snaps. With an HVAC maintenance plan, you can rest assured that your system will be prepared to keep your home comfortable year-round. Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and ensures consistent airflow and temperature regulation throughout your home.

Extended Lifespan: Like any other mechanical system, HVAC units require regular upkeep to perform at their best and avoid premature failure. By adhering to a regular maintenance schedule outlined in a maintenance plan, you can greatly extend the longevity of your HVAC system, thereby postponing expensive replacements in the long run.

Priority Service and Discounts: Most HVAC maintenance plans have added perks, such as priority service in emergencies and discounts on repairs and replacement parts.

Peace of Mind: The most valuable benefit of an HVAC maintenance plan is the peace of mind it offers. Knowing that trained professionals are regularly inspecting and servicing your system can alleviate the stress and worry that often come with home ownership.

In Dallas, where extreme weather conditions can take a toll on HVAC systems, investing in a maintenance plan is a proactive step toward ensuring year-round comfort and efficiency in your home.

FAQs:

Why is regular HVAC maintenance important, especially in Dallas, TX?

Regular HVAC maintenance is crucial for several reasons, especially in Dallas, where the climate can be harsh and unpredictable. Keeping your HVAC system well-maintained ensures it operates efficiently, saving you money on energy bills. Additionally, routine maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, extends the lifespan of your system, and ensures optimal comfort year-round, regardless of the weather outside.

What does an HVAC maintenance plan typically include?

HVAC maintenance plans vary depending on the provider, but they generally include regular inspections, tune-ups, and necessary repairs to keep your system in top condition. It may involve cleaning or replacing air filters, checking thermostat settings, lubricating moving parts, inspecting ductwork for leaks, and testing the system's efficiency. Some maintenance plans also offer additional benefits such as priority service, repair discounts, and extended warranties for added peace of mind.

[candeltechservices]

Air Conditioning Texas and Top-notch AC Repair Frisco TX

In conclusion, when it comes to Air Conditioning in Texas and AC Repair in Frisco TX, CandelTech Services stands out as a reliable and customer-focused partner. Beat the Texas heat with our quality cooling solutions and expert repair services. Your comfort is our business, and at CandelTech, we're committed to delivering cooling solutions that exceed expectations.

[davismechincalhvac]

What Does A Comprehensive AC Repair And Service Fate Texas Look Like?

The specialists in the domain of AC repair and service Fate Texas perceive that a well-working air conditioning framework is significant for keeping up with indoor comfort and ideal energy proficiency. In any case, achieving maximum execution from an AC unit requires something other than periodic repairs; it demands a comprehensive approach to overhauling.

Understand Comprehensive AC Repair And Service

Experts in the HVAC business understand the basic components that comprise a comprehensive AC servicing Fate Texas. Understanding these components is vital to ensure that your air conditioning framework works at its ideal, giving you steady cooling while at the same time delaying its life expectancy. The following are five fundamental parts that exhibit what a comprehensive service involves.

1. Exhaustive Assessment And Determination

They underscore that comprehensive AC repair starts with a fastidious review. Experts evaluate the framework completely, recognizing hidden issues causing failures or breakdowns. This step ensures an exact conclusion prior to continuing with repairs.

2. Accuracy Repairs And Part Replacements

Experts focus on accuracy in repairs, resolving recognized issues with accuracy. They replace defective parts, fix spills, and calibrate settings to reestablish the framework's ideal usefulness. This step ensures that the AC works proficiently, limiting the gamble of future breakdowns.

3. Cleaning And Upkeep Methodology

They perceive the meaning of cleaning and upkeep in AC adjusting. Specialists lead the exhaustive cleaning of channels, loops, and condensate channels, eliminating soil, trash, and microbial development. Furthermore, they grease up moving parts and fix electrical associations to forestall mileage.

4. Execution Testing And Alignment

Experts direct thorough execution tests post-repairs. They assess the framework's airflow, temperature differentials, and, by and large, execution to ensure it fulfills functional guidelines. Alignment of indoor regulators and controls ensures accurate temperature settings and productive activity.

5. Instructive Direction And Preventive Counsel

Specialists have confidence in teaching clients about keeping up with their furnace repair woodcreek TX. They give important bits of knowledge on appropriate utilization, suggested support timetables, and basic investigating tips. This direction empowers property holders to forestall avoidable issues and enhance their AC's life expectancy.

Experience Total Comfort!

A comprehensive AC repair and service Fate Texas includes a careful investigation, exact repairs, exhaustive cleaning, execution testing, and instructive direction. By zeroing in on these key perspectives, experts ensure that AC frameworks work at maximum execution, conveying ideal cooling productivity and unwavering quality for property holders. This all encompassing approach settles quick worries as well as plans to draw out the framework's life span, giving comfort and peace of psyche to mortgage holders. Keep your home cool and comfortable with Davis Mechincal hvac!

[airzoneheatingandac]

If you are looking for ac repair service in Austin Texas, then you should check out these tips that helps you to choose the best service providers for your next ac repair. Visit today!

[kacexpress]

Common Causes of an Overheating AC System

During the hot summer months, it's essential to have a functional air conditioning system to keep your home or office comfortable. However, if your AC unit starts overheating, it can cause a lot of discomfort and even damage the system. In this article, we will discuss some common causes of an overheating AC system and what you can do to fix it.

1. Dirty Air Filters

One of the most common causes of an overheating AC system is dirty air filters. When air filters become clogged with dirt, dust, and other debris, it restricts the airflow and causes the system to work harder than necessary, leading to overheating. Regularly cleaning or replacing your air filters can help prevent this issue and keep your AC system running smoothly.

2. Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant leaks can also cause an AC system to overheat. Refrigerant is responsible for cooling the air that passes through the system. If there is a leak, the refrigerant level drops, and the system has to work harder to cool the air. If you suspect that you have a refrigerant leak, it's crucial to call a professional AC repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue.

3. Clogged Condenser Coils

The condenser coils in your AC unit are responsible for releasing heat from the refrigerant. If the coils are dirty or clogged with debris, it restricts the airflow and causes the system to overheat. Regularly cleaning the condenser coils can help prevent this issue and keep your AC system functioning correctly.

4. Malfunctioning Fans

The fans in your AC unit help circulate air and keep the system cool. If the fans are not working correctly or have become damaged, it can cause the system to overheat. If you hear strange noises coming from your AC unit or notice that the fans are not spinning correctly, it's essential to call a professional AC repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue.

5. Electrical Issues

Faulty wiring or other electrical issues can cause an AC system to overheat. If you notice that your system is tripping the circuit breaker or there are burning smells coming from your AC unit, it's essential to turn off the system and call a professional AC repair technician immediately.

In Conclusion

An overheating AC system can be a significant inconvenience during the hot summer months. However, by understanding the common causes and taking preventative measures, you can keep your AC system functioning correctly. Regularly cleaning or replacing air filters, cleaning condenser coils, and addressing any electrical or mechanical issues promptly can help prevent an overheating AC system. If you need AC repair or replacement services contact a trusted and experienced AC repair company to diagnose and fix the issue promptly.

[strawbeerossi]

Trapped In A SUV

Pairing: Fem!Reader x Unit Chief!Spencer Reid

Description: Whenever you and Spencer are on the way to investigate the house of a suspected unsub, the SUV breaks down in the middle of nowhere. It’s a shame that you are both practically cooking in the Texas heat.

Content/Warnings: Case matter but nothing specific, extreme heat, undressing, Spencer is a bit of a pervert, car sex, penetrative sex, unprotected sex.

Word Count: 1.6K

Kinktober Day Thirteen: Car Sex

Navigation || Kinktober Masterlist || AO3

The sound of the engine completely blowing out had you groaning softly as the smoke was coming from the hood of the car. In hindsight, you two probably shouldn’t have left in such a hurry in the first car you could get your hands on. However with a search warrant to search the house of a suspected unsub who you’ve been hunting for days, there was no time to waste.

Until you were stuck on the side of the road, your hand shielding your eyes from the harsh sun as Spencer tugged open the SUV’s hood to be met with a black cloud of smoke. “Jesus,” He muttered, using his hand to waft away the evidence of a vehicle that needed urgent repair. “We are stuck here until someone can pick us up.” You filled in the unit chief as you frowned softly. “Emily said that they had a lead when I was texting her. They will be here whenever they can get here..”

“Of course. That’s just our luck isn’t it.” The male pursed his lips as he pushed the hood shut. “We should get back in the car before we melt out here.” You commented, already feeling beads of sweat forming from the blistering heat. 

“We won’t melt but it’s a good idea. The engine isn’t too far gone to the point we won’t have AC. I’m trying to avoid a heat stroke.” Spencer spoke while heading to the drivers side while you had returned to the passenger seat. The blow of the air wasn’t as strong as you preferred it to be but you counted your blessings, you could’ve been stranded and left to cook in the heat.

“Well. I guess you and I are on our own.” He murmured, his gaze on you while his eyes were widening as he watched you work to unbutton your shirt. “What? I’m sweating my ass off. It’s not like I’m getting completely naked.” You stated, now moving to shrug the button up off of your shoulders and tossing it to the side. “You’ve seen a woman in a bra, I’m sure.” You muttered while leaning back against the seat. 

His golden eyes were focused on your chest once your eyes were closing, the swell of your breasts being eye-catching in the black bra. It was like they were threatening to spill over the lace. His cheeks were bright red as he noticed a bead of sweat trail down your chest as it rose and fell steadily from your breathing.

He could feel his pants tighten, constricting his hardening cock as he gazed at your body. As he was so focused though, he hadn’t noticed your eyes opening or the fact that he caught you. The hungry look on his face had you intrigued. You didn’t expect for him to be watching you so intently, to have to look as if he was holding himself back from touching your bare skin. “Would you mind if I took my pants off too? I’m burning up here.” 

“W-what? I mean, if it’ll be comfortable go ahead..” His voice was at a higher pitch, feeling caught as he was bringing his hands up to loosen his tie. 

“You know that you can shed some clothes too, right? I highly doubt the team will judge us.” You suggested, biting back a smirk of amusement while Spencer was letting out a squeak in response. “I don’t know.” He began, his own body going against him as his hands were moving to undo the buttons on his shirt. Waiting for the rest of the team was gonna be fun, at least. 

After both of you were stripped down, it was like Spencer was desperately avoiding your gaze, his face cherry red. This was a lot. He wasn’t actually thinking that anything but embarrassment would come out of even attempting to look at your body again. You obviously caught him staring.

You’d turned up the air the best you could, leaning forward. With a moan of satisfaction at the coolness hitting your skin, you turned your head to face Spencer for a reaction. His body was frozen in place as he kept his gaze out the windshield, the smoke coming out of the hood less than it was earlier. The moan was enough to make him shift uncomfortably from his throbbing cock in his pants. 

“Hey,” You began while leaning over the console separating you both, offering a smile. “What are you thinking about?” You mused, knowing all too well what you were doing as you were squeezing your arms together slightly, making your tits push up in the bra you had on. 

“I-I was just thinking of how, uh, hot it is outside.” And here. Jesus. 

“You’re so red, oh, Spence..” You gave a faux pout while bringing a hand up to pat his cheek, thumb running over his skin. Spencer felt like he was going to have a heart attack. This was a lot to handle and you seemed to be eating up every reaction. “I’m fine..” He spoke softly while leaning into your touch.

What happened next happened in a flash, you pushed yourself over the small barrier between you both before you were settled in his lap. The man’s face was red, eyes widened and mouth agape in shock as your clothed cunt was brushing over the very obvious bulge in his underwear. 

“I knew it! You were looking at me!” You laughed in victory, hands moving to rest against his shoulders once his long arm was scrambling to push the car seat back to make sure that you were comfortable without having to be shoved against the steering wheel.

“Can you blame me? You practically got naked without needing any prompting.” Spencer found his voice again as he was bringing his hands to rest against your hips, thumbs running over your soft skin. “Plus.. You look so gorgeous, I can’t help it.” 

“Spencer.” You gush, nudging his shoulder while you offer a smile. It was your turn to feel your cheeks heat up from the compliment. “”Well.. I can assist you with getting rid of your… Issue.” You wiggled your eyebrows while moving to test the waters of rolling your hips against his, his breath hitching as he let his head tilt against the leather seat. “God, yeah, okay. I’ll bite. Help me out here.” He chuckled, his hands squeezing your hips while you leaned down to press your lips against his in a soft kiss. 

As your lips were slotting against one another, Spencer was in a frenzy to get your panties pulled to the side before letting his finger swipe through your folds and brush against your clit, grinning at the gasp muffled into his mouth. You were pulling from the kiss to lift your hips, using your hands to squeeze the tent in his boxers to elicit a groan before getting his cock out of his boxers. “I hate to rush this but I don’t think I can wait any longer.” The both of you were in agreement as Spencer’s hands were grabbing a handful of your ass before you were aligning his swollen tip with your leaking cunt and sinking yourself down.

Both of your groans mixed in the SUV, your ass hitting the front of his thighs as you gave yourself a moment to get adjusted. You could feel every curve, every vein as your cunt was welcoming the intrusion. Letting your hips roll at a slow pace, you were bringing your hands to grip his shoulders. 

“Does it feel good? Bet you’ve wanted to do this for years. You like fucking your boss while on the job?” Spencer’s words caused a moan to rip from your throat. “What about you? Fucking your subordinate because you couldn’t keep your eyes to yourself?” You spoke back while Spencer chuckled. “You had your tits out, I’m a man. We are pretty notorious to have an attraction to the female physique.” He chuckled.

“Fair enough,” you spoke softly while continuing with your movements, getting into a good rhythm that was eventually disturbed by the male thrusting upwards, your pussy swallowing his thick cock with no issue. 

“Fuck, don’t stop.” You cursed, the windows fogging over from the actions inside as a thin layer of sweat was spreading over both of your bodies, the smell of sex starting to fill the SUV, the vehicle rocking at a steady pace as you both were wrapped up in your rendezvous.

As you fucked like rabbits, you were leaning down to press your lips against his once more. You never thought of having sex with him in a car before, mainly because you always believed it would’ve been different. Maybe after being put together in the same hotel room or the both of you letting out pent up stress in Spencer’s office.

“I’m gonna cum.” Spencer warned, voice husky as he let out a deep groan at the way your velvety walls were clenching around him, his cock twitching inside of you. “Ah!” He panted, a bruising grip on your hips as he roughly thrusted upwards, damn near making your head hit the roof of the car. 

The sheer force behind each thrust was enough to have your body trembling, your head falling onto his shoulder as you let out a soft cry of his name, teeth biting down onto his shoulder as your creamy cum was rolling down his cock. He wasn’t deterred, instead now groaning as he couldn’t help but follow right behind. You could feel his cum gush inside of your cunt, eyes fluttering shut as you clutched his shoulders as your partially clothed bodies were pressed against one another’s while coming down from the high of your mixed orgasms. 

“I guess I should probably get off of you, huh?” Your words were slurred while Spencer let your hand gently rub your back. “Not yet..” He chuckled, pointing the air vents towards the both of you.

“We have a little bit. Let’s just enjoy the air.”

[airconditionerrepairservice]

Benefits of Having Your Ducts Sealed in Dallas, TX

There are many benefits to having your ducts sealed in Dallas, TX. The city has a variety of weather conditions that can cause moisture to build up in the air, which can lead to mold growth and other nasty surprises. Sealing your ducts will help to reduce the risk of these problems and keep you and your family healthy all year long.

5 Benefits of Having Your Ducts Sealed in Dallas, TX

When it comes to your health and well-being, sealing your ducts is a smart decision. Not only are they vital for your safety, but they can also keep the indoor air fresh and noise-free. In addition, sealing your ducts can help prevent drafts and moisture Buildup. Here are five benefits of Having Your Ducts Sealed in Dallas, TX.

1. Increased Air Flow

Your ducts greatly affect how much air moves throughout your home. If they aren't sealed properly, cold air could enter your home, leading to uncomfortable temperatures inside. HVAC technicians can seal off any cracks around vents and ductwork, ensuring your home stays cool while eliminating unwanted contaminations.

2. Preventing Mold Growth

You don't want mold to grow in your house - especially if you have kids! Mold spores are everywhere, and they thrive in damp conditions. You can prevent them from taking hold by sealing your ducts.

3. Reduce Energy Losses

If your ducts aren't sealed correctly, they could lose a lot of precious energy. Because warm air rises, ducts can leak hot air. By sealing your ducts, you'll keep the heat where it belongs - inside your home.

4. Improved Indoor Air Quality

The air quality inside your home directly affects your family's comfort. When ducts aren't sealed properly, harmful odors may get sucked into the system, causing headaches and allergies. But when ducts are sealed, your home will stay clean and fresh.

5. Save Money

Sealing your ducts can save you Money over time. You won't need to spend extra cash on heating bills if your ductwork isn't leaking.

In conclusion, sealing your ducts is a good idea if you want to keep your home cool and comfortable. By doing this, you'll help limit the heat that comes into your home, and you'll also be keeping the air quality clean and healthy.

[twsted-kinks]

Weird shit Yuu would say

(Mostly as an American. Also kinda dark)

Yuu: *playing in snow and giggling*

Epel: Wow, you're really getting into it

Yuu: Last time I saw snow people died so this is a nice change of pace (Reference to the Texas Freeze)

Epel: ... What?

----------

Yuu, making repairs to Ramshackle's roof: If I fall don't call an ambulance. I can't afford that shit

Deuce: ??? How can you not afford an ambulance? It's free

Yuu: Oh... Right, different place. Are doctor visits cheap? I haven't been to one for a couple years

Deuce: YEARS?!

----------

During a fire drill

Yuu, looking around

Ace: Chill, everyone's here you don't have to worry about people missing

Yuu: Nah, I'm looking to see if there could be a shooter. Fire alarm is the perfect way to make us sitting ducks

Ace: S-shooter? Like with a gun?

Yuu: Yeah. What? You've never done shooter drills?

Ace: NO!

-----------

At Sunset Savanna

Yuu: Is that... Holy shit, that's a quagga

Leona: Uh, yeah they're common here. Nothing special

Yuu: They're extinct where I'm from so they're pretty special to me

Leona: ... You know what I'm not even gonna ask.

----------

Yuu: Wow, this beach is so clean

Azul: Most beaches are like this

Yuu: What, most got trash pickers to clean up on the daily?

Azul: No? Is trash on beaches a problem where you're from?

Yuu: Just trash in the ocean in general is a problem. Lots of sea life die from it. Hopefully they got off shore drilling under control though now.

Azul: I know I'm going to regret asking but what are you talking about

Yuu: Y'all never had an oil spill?

Azul: I'm not even sure what that means so likely no

Yuu: Basically tons of crude oil leak into the ocean. Just imagine that shit getting into your lungs- or gills would be more accurate. Happened a couple of times. Lota of dead marine life

Azul: ... How can you say things like that so casually

Yuu, shrugs

[dunmertitty]

i’m glad yall think it’s funny that people are dying from lack of power in the state that has the fifth highest homeless population. it’s also super funny that texas has the highest incarceration rates in the us, which is the country that has the highest incarceration rates in the world. and that over a third of texas prisons don’t have air conditioning. and that incarcerated people can’t vote. and that a disproportionate amount of latinos and black men are incarcerated.

suuuper suuuuper funny that yall think the people who are suffering the most from heat waves and lack of AC are the ones choosing to be here, rather than people who are stuck here, by literally imprisonment or by lack of financial means.

super funny that every time it gets too hot, our legislatures leave to go on a fun family vacation while their state/county/city boils alive. super fun and cool that the richest neighborhoods (the ones that consume the most power) are prioritized when getting power back so that they only lose power for a few hours, or at most a couple days, while people in poorer neighborhoods (which, because of redlining and other ways to segregate without legally segregating, are again, a majority black and/or latino) lose power for days and weeks.

super cool and fun that power companies neglect their duty to the people they serve by not having maps (or accurate maps) to check power outages and repair times or even where to escape to to get out of the heat. but haha super funny that wataburger app is more accurate than the privatized power system we’re forced into through gerrymandering and other shitty shady practices to keep incumbents in power

maybe i’m biased cause im just a dumb southerner but none of that sounds super funny to me

[magebastard]

we moved into this house and the ac was busted (we live in texas it was in the 90s the entire time the ac was busted and they didn’t send anyone to look at or fix the unit for 3 weeks) there were wasp nests everywhere, the freezer didn’t work, several lights immediately went out, the microwave shorted out, the sink was busted and all the vent filters had expired in 2022. most of that has resolved now but when they came in to repair the freezer two weeks ago, they broke the entire fridge and they aren’t sending someone to fix it until next Thursday and. I am tired

[demona-andariel]

A Simple Act of Kindness - 29 / ??

Fandom: Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)

Pairing: Thomas Hewitt (Leatherface) x OFC

Summary: Elizabeth wakes up in a stranger's home. Her fate to become another victim of the Hewitt family is all but sealed till a simple act of kindness changes her life forever.

Warning: (Encompassing the whole story in no particular order) dead dove, rape/Noncon, violence, forced marriage, kidnapping, cannibalism, explicit sexual content, loss of virginity, angst

Author Note: Minors DNI!

Word Count: 3,747

Chapter 29 - Trust

The wind blew through the patrol car in a vain attempt to cool it off. Fucking AC. It had to break a few weeks ago and they didn’t have the money to repair it yet.

Stupid bitch.

It was all her fault that they couldn't fix his cruiser. Hoyt’s grip tightened around the steering wheel as his eyes focused on the road. The extra money they’d get used to go to him and whatever he wanted to buy. He was their true protector after all. The one who looked out for them and kept the police away. The one who brought them their meat to eat. 

“Fools,” he muttered under his breath. All of them. He had to be strong. He had to wait just a little bit longer. He wasn’t going to fall for the act like everyone else had.

Taking one hand off the steering wheel, he ran his fingers through his hair as he tried to think. 

Damn. He’d fucked up. He could have ended it a couple months ago. He should have shot her instead of fucking her. Or, fucked her and then shot her. What Tommy didn’t know wouldn’t kill him. In fact, Hoyt could have staged the whole thing as if some random ass wanderer did it. Make Tommy hate the world even more to the point that he would never fall in love with a stranger again. 

His mouth twitched at the thought. He really should have planned better. But, how was he supposed to know that his nephew would turn on him like that? The Tommy he knew would have strung her up and punished her for lying for so long about being able to get pregnant. Hell, Tommy’s temper at times was unpredictable. Hoyt had figured Tommy’d end up killing the girl on accident, which was why he raped her when he did. He wasn’t sure he’d have a chance once the truth came out.  

Fuck! He severely underestimated just how deep her claws were in his sweet, innocent nephew.

Hoyt grounded his teeth in annoyance. How the hell did that little cunt turn his family against him? He couldn’t blame Tommy, as much as he wanted to. The boy had grown up being feared and hated by the world. One simple act of kindness was all that was needed to melt him and turn him into a loyal guard dog, and Hoyt knew that. Being pretty just added to her appeal. But now the rest of the family seemed to be convinced that the girl was truly in love with Tommy. 

“She ain’t like the others, Hoyt.” The sudden approval in Luda Mae’s voice made him cringe at the thought. It was her goddamn idea to dress the girl up in that goddamn wedding dress for a faux-wedding night so Tommy could “experience what it’s like, just once to be married and have a normal wedding night”. Normal. 

Hoyt snorted. As if it was normal for the bride to beg the groom not to fuck her. Unwilling. 

He shouldn’t have let it happen. He should have insisted she be passed around like the meat she was before they butchered her. He wouldn’t be waiting for that moment to say “I told you”, when she inevitably betrayed them. And she was going to betray them.

Hoyt automatically turned down the all too familiar road, leading to their house. Excitement swirled through his stomach before it was quickly squashed with dread. 

Fuck!  

This feeling, it wasn’t right. He used to love coming home to his family to eat dinner together. But now, he couldn't wait to grab his plate, a beer and sulk in his dark bedroom until morning.

Hoyt pulled up to the large house, half surprised that he didn’t see Tommy, Lizzy and that damn dog playing outside. He saw Monty though, his older brother. Sitting on the deck in his wheelchair, watching him park. 

Getting out of his cruiser, he slammed the door shut.

“They went for a walk,” Monty called out from the porch as Hoyt made his way toward him.

Hoyt rolled his eyes. Of course they did. 

“Good. I’ll be able to eat in the dining room for once,” he muttered, more to himself. Their walks were usually long. Not that anyone was stopping him from eating with the family in the first place. He just hated seeing her there, as if she belonged. 

The wooden stairs creaked and groaned as he stomped up them to the house.

“She ain’t leaving, Hoyt,” Monty stated.

Hoyt huffed in disagreement. “We’ll see about that,” he said, placing his hand on the door handle. He grimaced as Monty’s bone fingers wrapped around his wrist and squeezed hard.

“I told Luda Mae that you ain’t gettin’ no more dinner to eat upstairs on your own. We a family. We’ve always eaten as a family. And you’re going to start eatin’ with us like before.”

Hoyt looked down at his disabled older brother. Despite being younger, Hoyt was the patriarch of the family. Even when Monty had legs and looked healthier, not as frail as he looked now, Hoyt was still the patriarch of the family. They trust him to protect and take care of them. He knew how to do that and he was good at it. And Monty always fell in line with the others. Probably grateful not to have the burden on his shoulders. But, Hoyt didn’t mind being the protector. 

“Well, ain’t you suddenly grown some balls,” Hoyt said.

Monty’s eyes narrowed in anger, but he let him go. “Stubborn, bastard,” he muttered. 

Hoyt shook his arm and nodded his head. That’s what he thought. 

“They gettin’ married next month,” Monty said as he turned his attention toward the woods.

“Sure they are,” Hoyt said as he opened the front door.

“They is,” Monty said firmly. “The dress will be paid for and Luda Mae already talked to the preacher to confirm the date. Betsy came by earlier with her daughter. Heard them talkin’ about the wedding and who was gonna attend.”

Hoyt snorted.  As if the list was going to include anyone who wasn’t family.  “Whole Hewitt family affair,” he said.

Family.  

He froze at the thought. 

Her family.

Any girl would want their parents to attend. And she knew her family was looking for her. She was probably already trying to convince Tommy to let her parents come to the ceremony. Have dear old daddy walk her down the aisle. What a disaster waiting to happen. 

Disaster.

“What about the girl’s parents?” he asked with curiosity. 

If they came, he would use them against her. Get her to want to go home and then show Tommy that he wasn’t special to her like she pretended he was. That she would leave him when true freedom was within her grasp. But Hoyt would be ready for that moment. And then they’d would feast.

Monty shook his head. “Naw. She didn’t mention inviting her folks or anyone for that matter. She got quiet after the meetin’, though. I think that’s why Tommy took her for a walk. Distract her.”

Damn. Tommy cared too much for her to let her go. And Hoyt had drummed it in his nephew’s head since the moment they decided to keep her, to never let her use the phone to call her family. She would leave him. She would break his heart in an instant. One phone call would remind her of her old life and he would never be able to win her back. 

Movement caught his attention. A dog rushed out of the woods, barking happily as it made its way to them. It wasn’t long before Tommy and Lizzy appeared. She had her arms wrapped around his and leaned against him. 

The beauty and the beast.

“Perhaps you’re right,” Hoyt said.

Monty raised his eyebrows in surprise before narrowing them. Hoyt let a small smile slip across his face.

“The girl’s been different from all the others. I ain’t gonna deny that. But, ya know me, hard to trust those pretty little bitches.” He watched the two make their way toward them. If it was possible, Lizzy pressed closer to Tommy the closer they got. 

Good. She was still scared of him. But her fear only went so far now. She had confidence that Tommy would protect her. And, as long as she played her wife role she would keep Tommy happy. 

“I’ll see you at the dinner table,” Hoyt stated before turning around and heading inside. 

His heartbeat picked up slightly as he felt giddiness flutter inside of him. He didn’t want her to see. Didn’t want her to suspect he was up to something. Her guard was always up around him, but it was never up around Tommy. She trusted the soon-to-be husband. And Tommy trusted him. It would take a little bit of convincing, but he would have to change Tommy’s thinking. Convince the man to let her make that phone call. And that would be the beginning of the end for her.

Lizzy sat curled up on the living room couch and stared out the window into the dark yard, trying to distract her mind. The crickets and night bugs chirped their nightly greetings. Chance lay on the lawn chained to a post. He was much more of an outside dog than an inside one. She had realized. Not that she minded. It made her feel safe, knowing that he would alert them to any trouble. 

Her guard dog. 

She smiled. 

He was already getting so big. He was going to be quite impressive once he was fully grown.

Despite being reassured multiple times now by various members of the Hewitt family that she was safe. Their words meant little to her. She still felt more at ease with Tommy or Chance by her side. She was safe as long as they were around. Even from Hoyt.  

Her stomach twisted with nerves. It still hurt, knowing that he would never see true justice for what he did to her. He was the clear leader of the Hewitt clan. Tommy beat the shit out of him, didn’t make him lose that role. And Tommy wasn’t interested in taking up that role. He wasn’t a leader, he was a protector. 

She let out a deep sigh.

Unfortunately, Tommy still loved and obeyed his uncle. Still evident by the fact that after dinner he went with Hoyt when Hoyt asked him to chat. The old man wasn’t going anywhere, but neither was she. Hoyt didn’t get it, but she wasn’t going to sit down and explain to him that she had drowned in Tommy’s love and she had no intentions of swimming to the surface. 

To his credit, Hoyt had been avoiding her like the plague for the last few weeks. Hearing him stomp up the stairs and then slam the door to his room like a petulant child, had been the highlight of her evening. Until today. She was the only person not happy to see him sitting at the table. Even Tommy showed visible excitement at seeing the old man in his usual spot. Hoyt even said the prayer.

Her stomach twisted as a wave of nausea rolled through her. Taking in a deep breath, she held it for a moment before slowly letting it out. 

“I’m sorry, Tommy,” she whispered under her breath, preparing her little speech. “I’ll never be able to forgive your uncle.” 

A door creaked open, causing her to turn her head. 

“Tommy,” she said. She quickly got off the couch and gave him a crooked smile. “I know it’s a little early,” she continued, in a sultry voice, “but it’s been a hot day today and I was thinking-” Her brow creased with concern as she rushed over to him. “Are you okay?”

Something was wrong. He looked worried, even anxious. Raising his hand up, he gently stroked her cheek.

She gulped as her heart started to thump in her chest. Oh no. What did he say?

She shouldn’t have let Hoyt talk to Tommy alone. She knew the old man was up to something. She should have-

Tommy reached down and grabbed her shaking hands, bringing them up to his lips.

“Safe,” he said softly. “Love.” 

Butterflies filled her stomach with the word and she let out a shaky breath, nodding her head. “I’m safe, love,” she repeated.

His eyes softened and he wrapped her arms around him to hug her.

“I’m sorry,” she said, burying her head in his chest. “I’m doing my best.” It was difficult for her not to fall back into that old fear that something bad was going to happen. 

She felt him nod his head in understanding.

Leaning back, she smiled at him. “Love,” she said in a teasing tone. Rising up to her tiptoes, she kissed his cheek. 

She let out a surprised cry as he suddenly wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her as close as he could to her body. His lips quickly found her. She wrapped her arms around his neck to hold on to him, not wanting to let him go. She needed him to reassure her that everything was alright. 

His hand ran down her body before stopping over her ass and squeezing it. She moaned into his mouth. 

Fuck. Not here where anyone can walk in.

“Tommy,” she mewled, her hands grabbed onto his belt as she loosened it. “Let’s go-”

Her body rocked as his arms let her go and he quickly stepped back. His hand went to his face and he shook his head clearly collecting himself.

Shit. There was something wrong. 

“Tommy?” she tried to keep the fear out of her voice. 

His eyes met hers and he let a small smile cross his lips to reassure her. It didn’t help much. 

“I-” wish you could tell me. She shut her mouth and shook her head. There was no point in finishing that sentence. It would only hurt his feelings. It already took a great deal of effort from his part to even say a word or two when he could.

Tommy reached out and took her hand before motioning her to follow him. Her mind protested, but her body obeyed. Where was he taking her now? 

The two of them walked down the familiar hall, but away from the stairs and their bedroom. She couldn’t help but gulp as they passed the door to the basement. An end she was so sure awaited her at some point. Now, she wasn’t sure.

He stopped in front of a door. She cocked her head to one side. It was the only room in the house she had never been in. She had no idea what was behind it. And considering what the basement held, she never had an urge to open it up and see what other awful thing to be discovered.

His hand slowly squeezed hers. She frowned and looked up at him. He didn’t look down at her. Instead, his eyes focused on the door. The emotions on his face were clear. He was worried and anxious. 

Whatever was behind there, she didn’t want to find out.

Her heartbeat picked up with anticipation. “We don’t-”  Her words were cut off as he twisted the door knob. 

But, he didn’t push. His eyes moved to look down at her. They darted around her face as if he was searching for something. 

“Tommy, you don’t-”

Leaning against the door, he pushed it open. 

The hinges creaked and groaned from having not been used in a while. Her breath caught in her chest for only a moment before she let it out and tilted her head to one side in confusion. He was being rather dramatic for opening a door that clearly led into a study. An unused study at that, given the amount of dust and cobwebs that filled the room. There was a desk and chair in the middle of the room with a couple of bookshelves with worn out books in them. Nothing scandalous or mentally scarring. 

“Jesus, Tommy,” she said, letting out a chuckle of relief. She let his hand go and started to look around the room. 

“You were being so dramatic, I thought-” Her words caught in her throat as her eyes widened.

Tommy had stopped by the desk and was watching her. His face was surprisingly neutral. And in his hand was a phone receiver. He held it out to her. Her mind went blank as she stared at it.

It wasn’t that she had no access to a phone. There was one at the gas station and one in the kitchen. But she never entertained the thought of using either of them. She would never have been able to get away with a quick phone call to anyone. 

“Tommy, I-”

He reached out his free hand and she automatically took it, allowing him to pull her toward the desk and the receiver in his other hand.

Call home.

“Tommy, I don’t think-” Her body ignored the protests that rushed out of her mouth. He placed the phone in one of her hands and she automatically clutched it. 

She couldn’t move as she stared at it. She felt his lips press against her forehead, but her body refused to move to acknowledge him. The dial tone blared loudly, telling her that the phone line worked. 

His warmth left her as he moved away. She heard the creaking of the floorboards from his weight. And then the door groaned as he shut it, giving them some privacy. 

“Tommy, I-” 

Her eyes widened in surprise. Not them . Her. He didn’t close the door and just stood there waiting and listening. He’d left. Perhaps he was standing outside, but he left her in the room alone with a phone. He wouldn’t be able to stop her if she called for help. 

Privacy. He was giving her privacy!

You trust me. Tears welled up in her eyes. Oh, Tommy. She clutched the receiver next to her heart for a brief moment before taking a deep breath and letting it out. 

“Okay, Lizzy. Let’s do this.” She placed the phone back on its base and walked around the desk to sit on the chair. Squaring her shoulders, she rested her hands on the desk.

You don’t actually need to call them. What are you going to say?

“Hey mom, dad. So, I’m alive and well. I’m actually in Texas. You won’t believe what happened.” She snorted. As if they could ever know the true story. No one could. They’d call her crazy. Her parents would probably send people to find her and take her away. Get her evaluated because there was clearly something wrong with her for falling in love with Tommy and actually wanting to stay with him and his cannibal family even after all that had happened. They hadn’t even changed!

But you don’t get it, mom, dad. He takes care of me like no one ever has. I’ve never felt as if I could lean on someone for help. But I can lean on him for support. Yes, we didn’t have a good start, but he’s been doing his damnedest to fix past mistakes. He trusts me. He loves me. He lives for my happiness and I live for his now. 

Mom, dad. I met a man who will kill for me.

She shook her head. She couldn’t do it. She couldn’t just call them all of a sudden like this. She needed to prepare herself with some story. Otherwise she’d probably fuck up somehow by letting them know where she was. And then her father would use his resources to track her down, see her living situation and take her away. And maybe even worse.

She stood up and started to move away. Better to wait. Clear her head.

Her eyes landed on an old dusty clock, making her pause.

“Actually,” Lizzy said thoughtfully. “This is the perfect time. They’re usually go out to dinner. So I can just leave them a message. Hey, mom, dad. It’s me. I’m doing just fine. I saw a poster of me as if I’m missing. Just wanna let you know I’m fine. Healthy, happy. I just need more time to myself right now. You know me. So, stop searching for me.  Please and thank you. I’ll call you guys later. Gotta go. And, I’m getting married. Okay, bye.“

Sounds perfect, Lizzy.

Picking up the receiver, she quickly dialed her parents home phone number. It felt so natural and automatic, although she hadn’t called them in months.

Breathe.

The phone rang once and she slammed the receiver down.

“Shit! No, Lizzy,” she almost yelled. She stood up and walked away from the desk. Running her fingers through her hair, she paced as she chided herself for her cowardice. “You got this. You got this. The answering machine will pick up. Just leave a message.” 

Grabbing the receiver, she dialed the number again.

Patience. Just, short and simple message. They won’t answer. They won’t-

“Hello?” a familiar voice answered.

A chill ran through her body as she froze. Her mouth dropped slightly in surprise. Someone answered.

Shit.  

Lizzy gulped. Hang up. Hang up.

“Hello? Who’s there?” her father’s voice said, sounding more annoyed. 

Her heart pounded in her chest as her hand moved the receiver back to her ear. 

“Listen, asshole. I’m not playing. I will get the cops involved if-”

“Hey, dad.” Her voice cracked, much to her surprise as tears sprung in her eyes. Really ? The tension that held her body straight eased and she sank onto the chair.  

He didn’t answer immediately. Clearly, he was just as stunned as she was. 

“Lizzy?” her father asked, cautiously. He sounded surprised and skeptical at the same time. “Lizzy? Is that you?”

“Yes, daddy,” she said. Why did her voice sound so hollow all of a sudden? “It’s me.”

“Christ! Lizzy! We’ve been looking for you. I’ve been so worried. My sister said you never arrived and that was months ago. None of your old friends have heard from you. Where are you? Are you safe? Do you need help? Let me know where you are, I’ll be there as soon as I can.”

Something broke inside her at the sound of desperation from his end. “Oh, daddy,” she sobbed.

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[jomiddlemarch]

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Part 2

Meghan figured she’d be holed up in the cabin they’d given to her for an infirmary, reading old copies of whatever magazine had made their way to her, Seventeen and Cosmo, Bassmaster and and Runner’s World washing up like the scrum of sticks and leaves on the shore of an eddying brook, playing endless games of solitaire on limp cards, cleaning up cuts, dabbing on ointment, bandaging ankles, for the entire duration of the summer, which would make any encounters with Joel Miller few and far between.

She had been wrong.

To be clear, it wasn’t that he was constantly right there when she turned around or looked up in a classic stalker-y kind of way or that he was seeking her out with increasingly inane-frivolous-nonsensical medical complaints requiring her assessment in a pathetic stalker-y kind of way or even that he just seemed to appear when she’d just thought of him, how deft his hands were ladling out a rainy day dinner of beanie-weenie or strumming his guitar in the firelight, in a telepathic mind-control stalker-y kind of way. 

It was just nice.

Sometimes, she lollygagged over her morning coffee and Joel didn’t exactly rush off to his next repair. 

Sometimes, he found he was walking in her same direction and fell into an easy gait beside her, for all that he was at least a foot taller than she was. The trees loomed, but Joel never did.

Sometimes, he held the door for her when her hands were full or pulled out her chair at the table the staff sat at for meals, the almost old-fashioned politeness of it somehow part and parcel of the camp itself, though Meghan suspected he’d do the same back home in Texas, though he thankfully never called her ma’am.

It wasn’t just nice. It was very nice. Very nice indeed.

So sue her, she liked him. (Actually, the camp’s malpractice policy was skimpier than she’d anticipated and she devoutly hoped there would be nothing worth litigating in her work, since she was not getting paid especially well to begin with and Ellie’s new school had a uniform policy so extensive that even Old Navy and Lands’ End were unlikely to keep her from racking up some credit card bills in the fall well before Meghan had to ante up for the field hockey team equipment and the God-forsaken trumpet Ellie had decided to play, an evil glint in her eye.) 

After all, why wouldn’t she like Joel? He was competent, intelligent, uncomplaining, a good listener, a devoted father, a guitarist who more than delivered when he played at the campfire—and that was before she considered how absolutely smoking hot he was in worn jeans, work boots and what seemed like an infinite supply of plaid shirts and grey tees, but which was probably about five and she’d just lost track. She’d never met a man who looked better with a scruffy beard, so much so that she wondered if she’d even be attracted to him if he ever shaved properly. (She would, who was she kidding? Those eyes and that lower lip and that ass…) 

He also always smelled good, which given the limitations of their bathing facilities, the lack of AC on hot days and the general organic funk that seemed to cling to everyone after their first dip in the lake, was impressive. And irresistible. 

She was resisting though, a little. She hadn’t thrown herself at him or ever found she needed to reach something in the bottom drawer of her filing cabinet when he was repairing the rotting window trim on the infirmary, bending over to showcase her natural assets augmented by the squats her best friend Alex swore by (Meghan was less convinced, but best friends did what they had to do and she herself never shut up about calcium.) She hadn’t let her hand linger on the salt-cellar or ketchup bottle when he asked to have it passed and she certainly hadn’t requested he play “Make Believe” or any other Rodgers and Hart love-song around the campfire (though the temptation to ask for “Blue Moon” once she’d discovered who wrote it was huge, even more so when she found out there was one coming up in August.)

She could have convinced herself it was all coincidences and hormones, a commodity Camp Firefly had in spades, though not emanating from Bunk 3, except for the fact that Joel hadn’t let her.

“So, here’s the deal. I like you and I think you like me. As Sarah would say, like that,” Joel announced as they took a mid-morning coffee break from her Thermos, the merry sound of campers with first swim distant, mingled with some birdsong.

“Um, that’s quite direct,” she said.

“Yeah. Because I’m a grown-up,” he replied, smiling. “Tell me if I’m out of line. I won’t bring it up again.”

“No?” Meghan knew she was partly stalling for time and that Joel probably knew that as well, but it didn’t hurt to push a little and see what he said next. Grist to the mill, Alex would say, as if Alex were not in a perpetual pitched battle against carbs and wouldn’t be caught dead anywhere near a gristmill unless arson was involved. 

“No. Because I respect you and myself. And my whole ego isn’t tied up in whether you feel the way I do,” he said. Meghan had to do her best to raise an eyebrow, because Joel was starting to sound unreal, like someone’s concept of the ideal man, not Plato’s, because even Philosophy 102 had taught Meghan that Plato had maybe spent too much time in a cave, away from sunlight, at least for her taste. “I mean, I also won’t spend all my free time replacing the perfectly adequate wood trim of this cabin’s windows or discovering that the floor near the back door is warped and ripping it out and asking you to hold the level 12 hours a day.”

“You’re making this hard,” Meghan said. “Because I do like you but I hate unnecessary renovations that take forever. Could we hang out without wood being involved?”

He grinned then as the words hung in the air for a moment and she blushed, she could feel it, red as a cartoon beet, not a real one. She tried a combo shrug-head-toss that would have been more effective if she’d put her hair in a ponytail instead of braids but from Joel’s expression, it was good enough.

“I had to play to my strengths,” he said. 

“I’m not reciprocating with an unnecessary physical and don’t try to tell me you sprained your ankle or something,” she said. “I have standards. Ethics. I’m a goddamn role model.”

“And I’m not interested in you playing a sexy nurse in a skimpy costume,” he said. 

That was when Meghan’s brain sort-of shorted out and she heard herself saying Holy shit before she could have thought about stopping herself. 

“What about a walk around the lake later?” Joel said. “Or we could take a canoe out. Stars are bright up here, brighter than Austin, and the moon’s nearly full.”

“Yes,” she said. 

Yes, she said when he looked at her before taking her hand in his.

Yes, when he rowed them into a cove and the moonlight was silver in his dark eyes.

Yes, just as he leaned in to kiss her, waiting to hear her first, and again into his ear before she kissed the side of throat, waiting to hear him moan.

She wasn’t disappointed.

[richincolor]

We have six books on our radar to kickstart May. Which ones are on your TBR list?

Ander & Santi Were Here by Jonny Garza Villa Wednesday Books

Finding home. Falling in love. Fighting to belong.

The Santos Vista neighborhood of San Antonio, Texas, is all Ander Lopez has ever known. The smell of pan dulce. The mixture of Spanish and English filling the streets. And, especially their job at their family's taquería. It's the place that has inspired Ander as a muralist, and, as they get ready to leave for art school, it's all of these things that give them hesitancy. That give them the thought, are they ready to leave it all behind?

To keep Ander from becoming complacent during their gap year, their family "fires" them so they can transition from restaurant life to focusing on their murals and prepare for college. That is, until they meet Santiago Garcia, the hot new waiter. Falling for each other becomes as natural as breathing. Through Santi's eyes, Ander starts to understand who they are and want to be as an artist, and Ander becomes Santi's first steps toward making Santos Vista and the United States feel like home.

Until ICE agents come for Santi, and Ander realizes how fragile that sense of home is. How love can only hold on so long when the whole world is against them. And when, eventually, the world starts to win.

Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)

Perry Firekeeper-Birch was ready for her Summer of Slack but instead, after a fender bender that was entirely not her fault, she’s stuck working to pay back her Auntie Daunis for repairs to the Jeep.

Thankfully she has the other outcasts of the summer program, Team Misfit Toys, and even her twin sister Pauline. Together they ace obstacle courses, plan vigils for missing women in the community, and make sure summer doesn’t feel so lost after all.

But when she attends a meeting at a local university, Perry learns about the “Warrior Girl”, an ancestor whose bones and knife are stored in the museum archives, and everything changes. Perry has to return Warrior Girl to her tribe. Determined to help, she learns all she can about NAGPRA, the federal law that allows tribes to request the return of ancestral remains and sacred items. The university has been using legal loopholes to hold onto Warrior Girl and twelve other Anishinaabe ancestors’ remains, and Perry and the Misfits won’t let it go on any longer.

Using all of their skills and resources, the Misfits realize a heist is the only way to bring back the stolen artifacts and remains for good. But there is more to this repatriation than meets the eye as more women disappear and Pauline’s perfectionism takes a turn for the worse. As secrets and mysteries unfurl, Perry and the Misfits must fight to find a way to make things right – for the ancestors and for their community. -- Cover image and summary via Goodreads

We Don't Swim Here by Vincent Tirado Sourcebooks Fire

From the author of BURN DOWN, RISE UP comes a chilling novel told through alternating voices that follows two cousins as they unravel their town’s sinister past, their family’s complicated history, and the terrifying spirit that holds their future captive.

Bronwyn is only supposed to be in rural Hillwoods for a year. Her grandmother is in hospice, and her father needs to get her affairs in order. And they're all meant to make some final memories together.

Except Bronwyn is miserable. Her grandmother is dying, everyone is standoffish, and she can't even go swimming. All she hears are warnings about going in the water, despite a gorgeous lake. And a pool at the abandoned rec center. And another in the high school basement.

Anais tries her hardest to protect Bronwyn from the shadows of Hillwoods. She follows her own rituals to avoid any unnecessary attention—and if she can just get Bronwyn to stop asking questions, she can protect her too. The less Bronwyn pays attention to Hillwoods, the less Hillwoods will pay attention to Bronwyn. She doesn't get that the lore is, well, truth. History. Pain. The living aren't the only ones who seek retribution when they're wronged. But when Bronwyn does more exploring than she should, they are both in for danger they couldn't expect. -- Cover image and summary vie Goodreads

Chasing Pacquiao by Rod Pulido Viking Books for Young Readers

Self preservation. That's Bobby's motto for surviving his notoriously violent high school unscathed. Being out and queer would put an unavoidable target on his back, especially in a Filipino community that frowns on homosexuality. It's best to keep his head down, get good grades, and stay out of trouble.

But when Bobby is unwillingly outed in a terrible way, he no longer has the luxury of being invisible. A vicious encounter has him scrambling for a new way to survive--by fighting back. Bobby is inspired by champion Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao to take up boxing and challenge his tormentor. Then Pacquiao publicly declares his stance against queer people, and Bobby's faith--in his hero and in himself--is shaken to the core.

A powerful and unflinching debut that will both shatter and uplift hearts with every read. -- Cover image and summary via Goodreads

Men of the 65th: The Borinqueneers of the Korean War by Talia Aikens-Nuñez Zest Books

Since the regiment’s creation in 1899, the men of the 65th have proudly served the US through multiple wars, despite facing racial discrimination. Their courage, loyalty, and patriotism earned them hundreds of accolades, including the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014.

But the honor and fidelity of the men of the 65th came into question in 1952, in the midst of the Korean War, when ninety-one Borinqueneers were arrested and tried for desertion and disobeying orders. How could this happen in one of the most distinguished and decorated units of the Army?

In this telling of one of the forgotten stories of the Korean War, author Talia Aikens-Nuñez guides us through the history of the Borinqueneers and the challenges they faced leading up to what was the largest court martial in the entire war. Rediscover the bravery of the men of the 65th through Aikens-Nuñez’s thorough writing and the soldiers’ firsthand accounts of the Korean War. -- Cover image and summary via Goodreads

Your Plantation Prom is Not Okay by Kelly McWilliams Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Harriet Douglass lives with her historian father on an old plantation in Louisiana, which they’ve transformed into one of the South's few enslaved people’s museums. Together, while grieving the recent loss of Harriet’s mother, they run tours that help keep the memory of the past alive.

Harriet's world is turned upside down by the arrival of mother and daughter Claudia and Layla Hartwell—who plan to turn the property next door into a wedding venue, and host the offensively antebellum-themed wedding of two Hollywood stars.

Harriet’s fully prepared to hate Layla Hartwell, but it seems that Layla might not be so bad after all—unlike many people, this California influencer is actually interested in Harriet's point of view. Harriet's sure she can change the hearts of Layla and her mother, but she underestimates the scale of the challenge…and when her school announces that prom will be held on the plantation, Harriet’s just about had it with this whole racist timeline! Overwhelmed by grief and anger, it’s fair to say she snaps.

Can Harriet use the power of social media to cancel the celebrity wedding and the plantation prom? Will she accept that she’s falling in love with her childhood best friend, who’s unexpectedly returned after years away? Can she deal with the frustrating reality that Americans seem to live in two completely different countries? And through it all, can she and Layla build a bridge between them? -- Cover image and summary via Goodreads