Coming Together Presents: C. Sanchez-Garcia

INTRODUCTION

I first met C. Sanchez-Garcia, like so many of the authors whom I admire, through the Writers list of the Erotica Readers and Writers Association. I honestly can't remember exactly how we struck up the first of our many email conversations. I do, however, recall him asking me if I would read and critique his work in progress, "The Color of the Moon." And I remember being stunned and amazed by the beauty, wisdom and depth of that piece—even as I was playing the role of a responsible crit partner, suggesting cuts and changes. His compelling tale of ancient Japan, with its itinerant Buddhist monk and passionate ghost, was like nothing I'd ever read. Certainly, despite its intense eroticism, it was a far cry from the salacious tales I typically critique and review.

"The Color of the Moon" is more than just an erotic story. It's about the conflict between religion and spirit, the addictive power of desire, and the nature of reality. It's a love story, a ghost story, a historical tour de force. He had a tough time finding a publisher (although Whisky Creek Press finally took the chance) because the work just didn't fit into anyone's boxes.

Since that first experience, I've had the privilege of reading many of Garce's tales. His work continues to defy categorization. I don't know anyone else who could write an erotic story about a suicide bomber ("How Paradise Comes to the Blind," in Coming Together: Into the Light) that could still arouse—but Garce managed. He can be hilariously funny, shockingly brutal, achingly tender—but he is always original. The stories in this volume are no exception. You will be laughing so hard your stomach hurts one moment, gasping in terror the next. As you plunge into this volume, expect the unexpected.

Garce writes from his heart and his soul. His stories are often difficult. They challenge both intellectually and emotionally. I don't want to scare readers away, but I also must warn you. You will not read this book and remain unchanged.

The proceeds from Coming Together Presents C. Garcia-Sanchez will benefit the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network. RAINN is the nation's largest anti-sexual assault organization. It operates a national hotline, educates the public about sexual assault; and leads national efforts to prevent sexual assault, improve services to victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice. Garce picked this charity after writing one of the stories in this volume ("Miss Julia's Cake Club"). When you read the story, you will understand why.
Garce is always self-deprecating about his own abilities. He claims that he's just an apprentice and calls me his "mentor." I tell him that you can learn craft but that means little without inspiration. Personally, I'm honored to be able to present this collection of stories by one of the most talented authors I've ever had the pleasure to read. I hope that you'll appreciate his visions as much as I do.

~ Lisabet Sarai
25 July 2010

For more information about RAINN, visit www.rainn.org