Step into the sultry, action-packed world of the Have Body, Will Guard series, where love, danger, and exotic adventures collide! Penned by Neil S. Plakcy, this gay erotica series follows bodyguards Aidan Greene and Liam McCullough as they navigate steamy romance and high-stakes missions, primarily in the sun-soaked landscapes of Tunisia. With a Lambda Literary Award finalist nod, it’s a thrilling blend of passion and suspense that keeps readers hooked.
Imagine heart-pounding chases through desert dunes, clandestine rendezvous in Turkish baths, and a romance that sizzles under pressure. Whether you’re a fan of gay romance or crave action with a sensual twist, this series delivers an unforgettable ride.
How Have Body, Will Guard Began
Neil S. Plakcy, a prolific author known for his Mahu mystery series, launched Have Body, Will Guard in 2009 with Three Wrong Turns in the Desert. Initially conceived as an action-adventure with gay characters, Plakcy’s editor at Loose Id saw its romantic potential, urging him to amplify the erotic and emotional elements. This pivot transformed the series into a unique fusion of suspense and steamy M/M romance, set against Tunisia’s vibrant backdrop. Plakcy’s knack for blending gritty intrigue with heartfelt love stories gave the series its distinctive edge.
The Heart of Have Body, Will Guard
The series kicks off with Three Wrong Turns in the Desert, where ESL teacher Aidan Greene meets ex-Navy SEAL Liam McCullough after a case of mistaken identity in a Tunisian bar. A dead courier and a race across the desert spark their romance amid danger. In Dancing with the Tide, the duo protects a gay pop star facing a fatwa, dodging bombs and navigating jealousy on the resort island of Djerba. Teach Me Tonight sees them guarding a spoiled teen, with Aidan grappling with his teaching past and Liam facing a ruthless foe. Later, The Most Expensive Spice shifts to the French Riviera, where they protect a Syrian refugee and a playboy, weaving modern political themes.
Plakcy’s Tunisia is a character in itself—bustling souks, scorching deserts, and luxurious villas set the stage for romance and intrigue. Themes of identity, courage, and love shine through, with Aidan’s growth from naïve teacher to confident bodyguard and Liam’s journey from closeted SEAL to open lover. The series balances graphic eroticism with action, offering a lighter tone akin to a romantic adventure flick, not a grim thriller. Social commentary, like the challenges of being openly gay in conservative regions, adds depth without overpowering the fun.
Why Have Body, Will Guard Resonates
Have Body, Will Guard stands out in gay romance for its bold mix of erotica, action, and cultural exploration. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon praise its vivid settings and the chemistry between Aidan and Liam, with reviews calling it a “delightful adventure” and “hot yet heartfelt.” Its Lambda Literary Award finalist status for Three Wrong Turns underscores its impact in the genre. By tackling issues like homophobia and political unrest with a light touch, Plakcy crafts stories that entertain while subtly provoking thought, ensuring the series’ lasting appeal.
- First Book Published: 2009 (Three Wrong Turns in the Desert)
- Number of Books: 13 (as of latest releases)
- Award: Lambda Literary Award Finalist (Best Gay Romance)
- Key Setting: Tunisia, later France
Grab Three Wrong Turns in the Desert and dive into the Have Body, Will Guard series’ world of passion, peril, and Tunisian sunsets!