Monica James Books

Two plays about the legal battle to decriminalize homosexuality in India. On September 6, 2018, a decades-long battle to decriminalize queer intimacy in India came to an end. The Supreme Court of India ruled that Section 377, the colonial anti-sodomy law, violated the country's constitution. "LGBT persons," the Court said, "deserve to live a life unshackled from the shadow of being 'unapprehended felons.'" But how definitive was this end? How far does the law's shadow fall? How clear is the line between the past and the future? What does it mean to live with full sexual citizenship? In Love and Reparation, Danish Sheikh navigates these questions with a deft interweaving of the legal, the personal, and the poetic. The two plays in this volume leap across court transcripts, affidavits (real and imagined), archival research, and personal memoir. Through his re-staging, Sheikh crafts a genre-bending exploration of a litigation battle, and a celebration of defiant love that burns bright in the shadow of the law.

The story revolves around a best-selling author whose inspiration for writing about true love comes from his soon-to-be ex-wife, Elizabeth. As he navigates the complexities of their relationship, he grapples with the irony of losing his muse while reflecting on the themes of love and soulmates that he has immortalized in his work. This narrative explores the intersection of creativity, love, and personal loss.

The story follows a once-feared leader who has lost everything after falling in love, only to find that his feelings are unreturned. As he plots revenge against his half-brother who has taken his throne, he discovers a sanctuary in an orphanage. There, he encounters a woman who reignites his long-buried desires, awakening his inner demons. Driven by a need for power and control, he is determined to reclaim his throne and the woman he believes he cannot have, even if it means shattering her vows and her spirit.

Hunter O'Shea finds himself in a complicated emotional situation after unexpectedly falling in love. As he navigates the challenges of his feelings, he reflects on the impulsive decisions that led him to this point. The story explores themes of love, regret, and the journey of self-discovery, highlighting the impact of romantic entanglements on one's life. Hunter's experiences reveal the complexities of relationships and the growth that can come from embracing vulnerability.

I have a secret... And I've kept this secret hidden since I was eight years old. But I'll no longer allow my past to define me. A fateful decision has left me a fugitive on the run. I should be afraid, yet I've never felt more alive. My name is Mia Lee, but that person died the night I spilled blood and didn't feel a thing. I'm on a Greyhound bus, ready to start a new life. A life that includes finding my mother, who left without a word when I was three. But I end up meeting four people who change my life forever. And one person, in particular, shakes things up beyond repair. Quinn Berkeley. He's just as damaged as I am. And harbors secrets just as dark as mine. But he gives me hope that living a normal life is within reach. However, the blood on my hands has forever stained my soul. No one can outrun their past. Especially one filled with bitter memories that refuse to remain...dead.

Fueled by a desire for vengeance, the protagonist embarks on a gripping journey that explores themes of betrayal and justice. As they navigate a world filled with deception and moral ambiguity, the quest for retribution leads to unexpected alliances and dangerous confrontations. The narrative delves into the complexities of human emotions and the consequences of seeking revenge, ultimately questioning whether the pursuit of vengeance can bring true satisfaction or merely perpetuates a cycle of pain.

Monsters exist beyond mere myth and legend, challenging the boundaries of reality. This narrative explores the terrifying implications of their existence, delving into the fears and struggles faced by those who confront these creatures. As characters navigate a world where monsters lurk in the shadows, themes of courage, survival, and the human psyche are intricately woven into their journeys. The story invites readers to question their perceptions of fear and the unknown, revealing deeper truths about humanity's relationship with the monstrous.

The story revolves around the unexpected return of Zoey Hennessy, who dramatically alters the protagonist's life with just two words. Her reappearance reignites feelings and challenges the status quo, leading to a tumultuous journey of emotions and revelations. The narrative explores themes of hope, love, and the impact of past connections, as the protagonist grapples with the changes Zoey brings into their world.

Secrets play a pivotal role in this gripping narrative, where hidden truths have the power to alter lives. The story delves into the consequences of uncovering these secrets, exploring themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the complexity of human relationships. As characters grapple with their pasts, the tension builds, revealing how the weight of undisclosed information can shape destinies. The exploration of moral dilemmas and the quest for redemption adds depth to the unfolding drama, keeping readers engaged until the final revelation.

A protagonist reflects on a decade of dedication and sacrifice, driven by a singular purpose that has defined their existence. The narrative hints at deep emotional struggles and a relentless pursuit, suggesting themes of resilience, obsession, and the toll of unwavering commitment. As the story unfolds, it promises to explore the complexities of the character's journey and the impact of their choices on their life and those around them.