Picture a storyteller who weaves love, identity, and a touch of darkness into unforgettable tales—meet Rick R. Reed! This bestselling American author has crafted over 50 works of fiction, blending romance, gay and lesbian literature, and horror with emotional depth. Known for his heartrending narratives, Reed’s stories resonate with readers worldwide, earning him a Lambda Literary Award finalist nod and a devoted following.
From his Big Love series to chilling horror, Reed’s ability to capture the queer experience with sensitivity and passion sets him apart. Ready to dive into a world where love conquers all, even in the darkest moments? Let’s explore Rick R. Reed’s journey!
The Making of Rick R. Reed
Born in East Liverpool, Ohio, Rick R. Reed grew up in a small town famous for its pottery, a detail that sometimes sneaks into his vivid settings. With degrees in Mass Communication and English from Miami University, Reed’s early career included stints as an advertising copywriter and a theater critic for Chicago’s Windy City Times. His love for storytelling bloomed early—he wrote his first short story at age six and a novella by fifth grade. Inspired by authors like Stephen King and Patricia Highsmith, Reed found his niche in crafting emotionally charged tales that explore the queer experience.
Rick R. Reed’s Unforgettable Stories
Reed’s bibliography is a treasure trove of over 50 novels, three short story collections, and numerous anthology contributions. His Big Love series, including titles like Chaser, dives into heartfelt gay romance with complex characters navigating love and self-discovery. Chaser follows a man grappling with body image and desire, earning praise for its raw honesty. The M4M series, with books like The Perils of Intimacy, explores second chances and redemption, showcasing Reed’s knack for blending romance with real-world struggles.
Beyond romance, Reed’s horror novels like Toxic deliver dark, suspenseful narratives with a queer twist. His writing style is immersive, blending witty dialogue, psychological depth, and themes of love, acceptance, and resilience. Whether he’s penning a tender love story or a chilling thriller, Reed’s stories grip readers, making them laugh, cry, and turn pages late into the night. Entertainment Weekly calls his work “heartrending and sensitive,” while Lambda Literary hails him as “a writer that doesn’t disappoint.”
Recent works like Immortal Things, a paranormal romance with vampires, and Wounded Air, a supernatural thriller, show Reed’s versatility. His ability to cross genres while keeping queer narratives at the forefront has cemented his status as a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ fiction.
Why Rick R. Reed Matters
Rick R. Reed’s impact lies in his fearless exploration of queer identity, love, and human connection. His stories give voice to often-marginalized experiences, resonating with readers who see themselves in his characters’ struggles and triumphs. By blending romance, horror, and suspense, Reed has broadened the scope of LGBTQ+ literature, proving that queer stories can thrive in any genre. His international translations into Russian, French, and Spanish reflect his global reach.
Reed’s engagement with fans, from personal email responses to social media posts, fosters a tight-knit community. Living in Palm Springs with his husband, Bruce, and their rescue dogs, Kodi and Joaquin, Reed continues to write stories that inspire and entertain, leaving a lasting mark on contemporary fiction.
- Born: East Liverpool, Ohio
- Key Works: Chaser, The Perils of Intimacy, Toxic, Immortal Things
- Awards: Lambda Literary Award finalist
- Fun Fact: Reed volunteered at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, reflecting his love for animals.
Snag Chaser or Toxic and dive into Rick R. Reed’s captivating blend of romance and suspense!