Reviewed by Jenna
TITLE: The Kissing Contest
AUTHOR: Francis Gideon
PUBLISHER: Less Than Three Press, LLC
LENGTH: 33 pages
BLURB:
Homer Ruiz is a well-known actor who is constantly cast as bad guys, gigolos, or men of ill-repute. As a publicity stunt, his friend Jack Douglas has arranged a kissing contest to be held inside a Paris Hotel and Casino, where some of the most famous and attractive men from around the world will compete for the bragging rights of best kisser in the world. It’s a contest that everyone enjoys—except Homer, who is left reminded all over again that people love the images and illusions he portrays far more than they will ever love the reality.
REVIEW:
Homer, an attractive actor cast in villain roles, appears to be happily married, though his wife’s interest in him seems to revolve around his fame and image as an actor. When Homer organizes a kissing contest in order to boost his popularity, he is caught off guard by the beauty of his male opponent, Absolom. After the contest, Homer has the opportunity to meet and speak with the alluring man.
This short story had a beautiful Parisian feel to it; however, the times appeared oppressive. Homer loves both men and women, but feels he has to keep his love for men locked away. I found it very depressing how Homer hides his desire for men from his wife and relies on his acting skills in order to lie about his past sexual encounters. Homer’s duplicity in this respect, as well as his relaxed attitude about cheating made his character less likeable. I found myself wanting him to break free from the lie he was living, rather than just stealing a kiss. Overall, The Kissing Contest was a pleasant and introspective tale.
RATING: 
BUY LINKS:
I’m sorry but £2.45 for 33 pages is way over the top – £0.99 is more a realistic price (and I bet he would have sold a lot more).
It’s actually realistic price with a percentage being paid out to the publishing house (45%) and let’s not forget the vendors (Amazon, B&N,etc – 40%) also get a take. If he sold it at £0.99 he’ll only make £.54-.59 a book.