Working Man: Opening Day at the County Fair by J.M. Snyder is a homoerotic contemporary story.

Boydton County has got to be the dullest place in the world; at least it is for Jesse. He can’t do anything right for his father who thinks he is a lazy do-nothing. Somehow Jesse’s sister gets him to promise he would take her to the county fair, the only thing that goes in in the area all year. Jesse used to love it, but now it just means hours of hard work and haggling with customers over produce. Jesse thinks that this is just not going to be his day until he gets the surprise of his life. Jesse sees a young man, Davis, who is everything that Jesse is looking for, slender, fair skin, and a body to die for. Is this a chance that Jesse’s luck is about to change or will this just be a dreary day like all of the rest?

Ms. Snyder has created a lively and funny short story with a depth that she is known for. Jesse is dissatisfied with his life until he meets Davis and his luck starts to change. Davis and Jesse seem to have an immediate connection that goes beyond the physical. Their first time together is like putting a spark to gasoline, very combustible. I would love to read other stories about Jesse and Davis to find out if Jesse’s life changed and if they found a way to stay together. Thanks go to Ms. Snyder another fun read.

Reviewed by: Teresa