Joseph McGinnis's Writings

"Composed from true life events and personal manuscripts, This Shadow Follows Me, is a riveting fiction novel of Alec Andrews and the friends and family that faltered around him. The story begins with the death bed of Andrew's ex-boyfriend Troy who was dying of AIDS complications. Alec tries to tell his life story in hopes that he can make up for all that he could not tell Troy when he was alive. Alec's life story lurks with the self destruction of a family that drove him to crucify himself, in hopes they would be correct with their religious beliefs. From a homophobic family to a homophobic upbringing, Alec fights to find himself free from the illusions that capture him." Joseph McGinnis has fashioned a truly touching and affecting novel, one that will stay with the reader long after the final page is read. THIS SHADOW FOLLOWS ME is the story of Alec Andrews and his search for meaning after the tragic death of his ex partner. The fact that this novel is semi-autobiographical lends it a feeling of realism not often felt in novels. The journey of self-discovery that Alec undergoes is at times intense and terribly painful, at others times, witty and joyful and at all times deeply engaging. The most important point that must be made is that this superb novel not be pigeon-holed as a "Gay Novel". Its themes of self-discovery and acceptance are universal, Alec's search for meaning and truth is one all of us undergo to some extent, regardless of our sexual orientation. While Heterosexual myself,I felt myself identifying with so many of the issues facing Alex. The search for self-actualization is a universal trait. Joseph McGinnis has a rare talent for taking very complex human emotions and presenting them in a way in which the reader is both engaged and involved. The supporting characters are all unique and there is no sense of pretense, rather THIS SHADOW FOLLOWS ME is a deeply touching journey for not only the characters, but for the reader as well. A journey well worth taking. AN OFFICIAL JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB MUST READ RICK FRIEDMAN FOUNDER THE JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB ”