The three stories, like a day at the beach, are an enjoyable, diverting read filled with fun, sun and the good things in life. Addison Albright’s “Nevermore” is an insightful and tender story of a man who longs for something more, then with Ava Matthew’s “Chasing Sand” a chance encounter just may lead to long-term consequences, and finally with Zoe Nichols' “Surf’s Up” an older, former surfer teaches a sassy surfer kid an important, impactful lesson.

Nevermore by Addison Albright - Ted leads a double life. By day he’s a divorced father of two young children and a middle-school teacher. He has a fulfilling life, but he’s still in the closet, afraid to step out and risk his safe, comfortable existence. By night, when the mood and courage strikes him, under the persona of Raven he drives a safe distance from his hometown to a club, hoping to hookup with the sexy, mysterious Caesar. Then a chance encounter at the beach may finally give Ted the encouraging push he needs to finally leave the darkness of his closeted life behind. And a chance for his heart's desire.

This is a perfect example of not what is said, but how it is said. The story’s short, just eight pages, and even with the sex scene, the author allows us to know Ted through his very well-done characterization, layering in important insights that skillfully flesh out his character. And the author doesn’t resort to a forced closing scene, as I had feared, yet still manages to nicely wrap the story up. “Nevermore” is a quick read, but satisfying and heartfelt with deeper significance and hope for something more.

Chasing Sand by Ava Matthews - Adam is sharing a beach condo with his brother, his brother’s wife and their two young sons. He’s quite fond of his family, but as it happens to single people they start “suffering from too much togetherness.” So early one morning Adam escapes from the familial bonds and runs into Matt. Matt is a victim of similar circumstances, but instead of family he has well-meaning friends who are driving him up the wall. The two men instantly connect and feel the pull of attraction, which they would like to pursue, but first they need to find some time alone without the ever-present family and friends.

Ava has written a playful, sensual story that wonderfully emphasizes the attraction over the lust. It’s so refreshing to read a short story where the author takes the time to build on the anticipation, while deliciously teasing us with flirty dialog, so when the men finally do share that first kiss, just a light, barely there kiss, the moment feels magical and real. Both Adam and Matt are endearing characters, not really interested in a one night stand, but hesitant in expressing to each other their hope for something more. This tentativeness not only deepens their characterization, it also comes across as realistic and true to their established characters. Another quick story, tender in places, amusing in others, and a pleasant, engaging read.

Surf’s Up by Zoe Nichols - Shane is a young thirtysome former surfer, his broken kneecap from a surfing competition a year ago now keeping him on the sidelines. As he’s on the beach reading a “bouncy love tale,” Shane's feeling a little sorry for himself and grieving over his lost glory days. He’s seriously distracted by the frolicking surfers, feeling the pull of the surf and the desire to rejoin life. Then because of his distracted state, he has a sudden chance collision with a young surfer dude who needs a few lessons in how to respect your elders.

Zoe once again proves age does have its distinct advantages. Shane’s inner voice was an absolute delight, as well as the dialog foreplay of advance and thrust, taunt and tease, followed by the lunge and sweet capitulation. Zoe writes with a touch of bittersweet followed by the stronger bite of tart, while the descriptive language, as with “the soft pink mouth currently being destroyed by bright white teeth,” adds a colorful, distinctive edge to this author’s writings.