House of Broken Dreams

GAY NOVEL

House of Broken Dreams
Byrd Roberts

1-879194-41-4

Click here to preview the first Chapter.

Reviews:

All of the steamy behaviour that one associates with the Deep South in America rises to the surface in this sexy romp behind closed closet doors of Virginiia's hottest blue bloods. This book follows the Widdicombe family, who were one of the prime families in Virginia. Secrets and lies, murder and suicide conceal the truth about the family and why Strutwick, the man of the house, always has a parade of young studs chasing after him.
--- reFresh Magazine, London

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Told in the first person by Strutwick Widdicombe Hall , the tale begins in 1970 with the suicide of Strut's father. Banker Oliver Hall embezzled a quarter million dollars before he shot himself dead. With the death of his father, Strut is thrust into the role of man of the household. The household is used to enjoying all the perks that come with wealth and old social standing. The Widdicombe name is one of the oldest in Virginia. Strut, indeed all the Widdicombe's, have the bluest of blue blood flowing through their veins.
And what a household it is. Mom Claire is not exactly bereft upon learning of the death of her husband; Aunt Charlotte has been housed up on the third floor for years. Strut has never seen her. Brother-in-law Owen Fleming is horrified that his father-in-law has so 'shamed the family,' sister Carolyn loses all reason. Strut has a problem trying to find work, but Aunt Charlotte comes through in the most amazing manner. Before long Strut is well on his way to financial success. His gay personal life is a bit more traumatic.
In House of Broken Dreams , writer Roberts presents a gripping, easy reading tale filled with enough detail that the Norfolk, Va. area comes alive on the page. From the opening lines right on down to the last surprise offered in the closing paragraph, House of Broken Dreams holds the reader in its grasp. The Widdicombe house hides almost forgotten secrets no one wants revisited.
The well-developed characters are interesting, often twisted and brutally established. Dialogue between the various players is plausible, acceptable and at times downright gritty. The most secure- appearing relationships frequently come apart, bringing momentary satisfaction but little lasting happiness. The reader cannot help but empathize with Strut as he endeavors to move his life forward despite heartache and sadness.
House of Broken Dreams is an ingeniously drawn, enigmatic tale, providing a showcase for writer Roberts' deft writing skills. Roberts has crafted a tale sure to enjoy a wide readership in both the gay and straight community. The project is at times puzzling, mysterious, and baffling all within a matter of paragraphs. This well-written narrative is sure to entice the most discriminating reader with its representation of puissant motivations, treachery and lavishly drawn settings. Enjoyed the read... happy to recommend.
--- molly martin, http://www.angelfire.com/ok4/mollymartin
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Byrd Roberts' tale, House of Broken Dreams, of the aristocratic Widdicombe family makes great reading for straights, gay men, and lesbians alike. By the time I finished the first chapter, I had moved into Strutwick's majestic Victorian house, and I never left until I finished the book. Byrd's expert depictions of the characters who passed through the fine leaded-glass doors, passed private moments in the gazebo, or peaked through the musty third-floor curtains at the treacherous world below enabled my personal relationships with all who dwelled within. Virginia will never be the same for me again.
—Robert Bertrand, author of "The Lofty Boughs of Greenwood"
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All of the steamy behavior that one associates with the Deep South in America rises to the surface in this sexy romp behind the closed closet doors of Virginia'a hottest blue bloods. This book follows the Widdicombe family, who were one of the prime families of Virginia. Secrets and lies, murders and suicide conceal the truth about the family and why Strutwick, the man of the house, always has a parade of young studs chasing after him.
-- reFresh Magazine, London

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