Stepping Stones by Carol Lynne is a homoerotic Torquere High Ball short story.

Donovan and Delcan are twins who were always very close until the day that Donovan moved away. Donovan was born first and took care of his brother until he realized that his feelings for Delcan were much more than brotherly. Even after fifteen years, Donovan’s feelings for his brother haven’t changed, and when Delcan asked to stay with him, of course Donovan said yes. Delcan has had problems with his abusive boyfriend and he arrives beaten up, leaving Donovan very angry. Delcan, even with his injuries, is the most beautiful man that Donovan has ever seen. Unknown to Donovan, Delcan has loved his twin all of his life, but he never thought his feelings would be returned. Donovan’s friend Mark realizes what is happening and tells Delcan how Donovan felt all these years, even though he has feelings for Donovan himself. What will happen between Donovan and Delcan? How will Mark fit into the scheme of things?

Ms. Lynne has created a story breaking new ground and showing others that love can exist between two people in spite of who they are. Donovan left to protect his brother as he always has without a thought to what it would do to him. Delcan has always known who he was, but even that couldn’t overcome society's mores against brothers loving one another. The abuse that Delcan took from his boyfriend was terrible and it is sad that it happens all the time. Things would be much better if everyone would let people be who they are without judging them. This story reinforced the understanding that love can conquer all if it is just given a chance. Thanks go to Ms. Lynne for an inspiring story.

Reviewed by: Teresa