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I am a retired clinical psycologist who worked for forty years in the area of clinical sexology. At that time I published the first textbook on sex therapy in Spanish. Dozens of articles pertaining to this theme were published. My first novella was Machito (Little Macho), which dealt with a teenager going through sexual orientation issues in a time where homosexuality was officially considered an illness.
More novellas have been written upon my retirement and all have some scene from my real life to spark the plot.
I draw upon real life and may add a bit of paranormal while even doing some social criticism.
My biggest surprise: Sweat, Glamour and Light Sins was categorized as "chick lit." As this author is a man, I received this as a compliment to my capacity to fill someone else's shoes, even if they are a woman's.
Reviewed by Json Lee for Readers' Favorite
"Sweat, Glamour and Light Sins", by Alex Canton-Dutari, gives us a glimpse into the gym life of a retired therapist (affectionately known as Abuelo, or grandfather). While most dread the gym and “get in and get out”, Abuelo utilizes the gym for mental support and quickly realizes that the gym’s subculture has changed since he was young. Most notably, people are “less private about their personal information.” As a result of the gym’s inner core, Abuelo becomes privy to the personal lives of many of the participants. In turn, he introduces the reader to several colorful characters including Rhonda (a fashion designer and boutique owner catering to “slightly overweight women”), Issi (a beauty pageant hopeful) and Jack (a handsome college student with a few “light sins”).
This novella was a slow start for me and I found the setting quite mundane. Despite these hindrances, the author still manages to weave an interesting storyline. "Sweat, Glamour and Light Sins" is a light-hearted novella that you will find endearing. As much as Abuelo tried to distance himself from the role of a therapist, he still found himself acting as an adviser and confidant. It is abundantly clear that he was well-respected in the gym setting, was a good listener and gave sound advice when solicited. Given the ending of the story, I think Abuelo can give himself a huge pat on the back. While his days in an office setting may be over, this grandfather’s days of therapy are far from over!
