Every Story Begins Somewhere: This Is Mine

Here I am: a mid-30s single man, rediscovering myself after a major shake-up in life. I’m not just turning the page to a new chapter I’m writing an entirely new book, one that’s all mine. For the first time I’m learning to trust my own voice—and honestly it’s about time.

Writing has always been a comfort. A way to process, to connect and create. But stepping into the world as a first-time author? That’s a whole new level of terrifying. Queerly Yours, Daniel came about because of my love for celebrating queer voices. I’ve always championed our community. This first manifested in setting up a Pride charity in my local town which has been one of my proudest moments but I wanted to do something that went beyond. I wanted to celebrate the books, films, and art that show us for who we are a vibrant, messy, brilliant and utterly human. Queer representation that’s more than a background character or a tick box on a diversity spreadsheet.

It’s personal though, this whole journey. Last year I started writing my first novel and it has been a mix of excitement, self-doubt and occasionally staring at a blank page for far too long. But this whole journey has been about reclaiming my voice and more importantly learning to trust it. And Queerly Yours, Daniel isn’t just about me, it’s about creating a space for creativity, a community where we can share ideas, celebrate queer stories and cheer each other on when the self-doubt inevitably creeps in. This is a call to arms to all aspiring authors or queen book lovers... I will need tour help on this journey!

The stories I want to tell aren’t about token characters thrown in to tick the “diversity” box. They’re about real people, real experiences. Stories where queer characters exist not as a plot twist but as fully realised humans. Because let’s face it... representation hasn’t always been kind to us and that needs to change.

Of course, starting this journey hasn’t been without its doubts. The loudest one? Why me? Who’s going to care about a middle aged bloke from the Midlands? But then I think, Why not me? Why not celebrate the voices, the art, the stories that matter to me and so many others? Why not celebrate me?

If you’re someone who loves queer stories, wants to see better representation or just fancies a safe creative space where we can all be ourselves, then welcome. Let’s build something brilliant together.

Queerly Yours,

Daniel