Mark Merlis Book order

The story follows Joel Lingeman, a congressional adviser navigating the challenges of middle age after his long-term partner leaves him. Thrust into a youthful dating scene, he embarks on a quest to find a vintage magazine ad featuring a model from his youth, which leads to profound self-reflection. As he explores his past obsessions, Joel gains insight into his life and relationships. This engaging narrative weaves themes of nostalgia and personal growth, offering a fresh take on the intersection of personal and political experiences.

The award-winning An Arrow's Flight tells the story of the Trojan War and Pyrrhus, the son of the fallen Achilles, now working as a go-go boy and hustler in the big city. Magically blending ancient headlines and modern myth, Merlis creates a fabulous new world where legendary heroes declare their endowments in personal ads and any panhandler may be a divinity in disguise. Comical, moving, startling in its audacity and range, An Arrow's Flight is a profound meditation on gay identity, straight power, and human liberation.

A debut novel from this author, a novel based on the reminiscences of a 62-year-old gay man as he lies in his hospital bed recovering from being beaten up.