Tue, 08 Jan 2008
Dear Andrej, I have just read "Akim, Akim...". I thought it was a wonderfully written, well rounded and very spellbinding in content. I was captivated by the storyline from beginning to end. Also, i thought you approached the subject of the older/younger romance beautifully. I can not wait to read more of your work. Sincerely yours, Donald

Wed, 07 Nov 2007

Dear Andrej, I have read Akim, Akim..." and liked it very much. Please accept the following as positive criticism. The English translation is not quite up to scratch yet and needs a little polishing. I think that with a little work and presented in the correct way it might well be viable candidate for conventional publishing - possibly in a paperback format. It may be worth contacting Gay Mens press (GMP) in the UK or Alysson in the USA to see if they are interested. For conventional publishing the work is probably a little short and could perhaps be combined with one or two other appropriate works in a single volume? I look forward to reading some more of your fiction. Philip

Thu, 25 Jan 2007

Hi Andrew, during these couple weeks, I've managed to read three of your stories, not because I took a long time to read, but because the lack of time I had :) Anyway, the stories are "Money, Beauty, or Love", "Life Starts at 25" and "Akim, Akim...". I would like to say that I enjoyed the three of them. In "Money, Beauty, or Love", I was kind of surprised with the conflict at the end, it was rather unpredictable, and I liked the twisting, even though it ended happily. "Life Starts at 25" was better, because I love Jacques' character. It was predictable though, but it's okay :) And the last one, "Akim, Akim..." was okay. There were just too little conflict between Akim and Piero, but I loved how your pictured their first sex encounter. It was lovely. Well, sorry for my rambling. And I will read your other stories too :) dizzy

Wed, 24 Jan 2007

Andrej, I just finished "Akim, Akim..." and really enjoyed it. You really do have a marked talent, and I'm a sucker for gay stories with a happy ending. Exactly the reason I enjoyed Latter Days (if you haven't seen it, you need to!) and not Brokeback Mountain. Your story's plot wasn't full of breathless conflict, instead it took things at a slower, more sensual pace, and I liked that. Italy is a wonderful exotic setting, and you included lots of details so I could actually see the story as it unfolded. The characters were likeable and well-developed, even supporting characters like Carla. Piero's development through his various relationships is believable. By the last chapters, I was cheering Piero's and Akim's relationship on, hoping that the two of them would have the storybook ending they so deserved. You made me care about the characters, and that's an amazing thing. And your sex scenes, while graphic, were not rough and degrading; there was tenderness even when it was "just sex." I've read plenty of gay sex scenes that have turned me off because it seems like, even when the partners love each other, they treat each other like pieces of meat, without the tenderness and caring and respect that should mark a relationship. Blessed be, Clea

Thu, 30 Nov 2006
I read Akim's story with great enjoyment!It was very nice and enjoyable,but in some parts bit discursive and the story vere loosing it's momentum!!! Regards from Bob from Czech republic!

Fri, 22 Sep 2006

Hi A.K.: I wanted to let you know that I read the story "Akim, Akim..." I really liked the story. Piero and Akim were wonderful characters, and I liked the simplicity of the story. There were underlying lessons in there, which I also liked, but it was just a pleasure to read. Your writing has evolved so much! I know this story was written years ago, and to think that "The Choice" is by the same author! This story was still wonderful to read, but wow - you write so well now that you can publish if you put your mind to it (if you haven't already). I have also wandered around your website, enjoying myself tremendously! I will keep reading, and writing back as I read your stories. It seems like Matt fell in love with you through your writing. I can understand why. You have an amazing touch. My best to you and Matt! Centaur

Fri, 11 Aug 2006

Buona sera, Andrej. Come stai? I hope you and Matt are both well. I have just finished reading "Akim, Akim" and I wanted you to know how much I have enjoyed it. You write with such poetry - even in the English translation. The man-boy Akim is such a wonderful mind-picture - I hope I can dream of him! Piero also is such a fine character, with his great strength of character which develops through the story. They deserve each other and their joyful coming together was woderful. Thank you for a beutiful story. Ciao! Neil

Thu, 16 Mar 2006

Hi Andrej, I am reading your second shelf now. I think all of your stories are great: Akim, Akim... Again, one of your wonderful boy portraits (two, in this case). A very sweet read. The only thing I can think of to critizise: the is no real conflict in the story... just a long wait. Who Has to Forgive Once more, a lovely portrait of an adolescent boy. My only worry: when Roberto and Antonello go down the road to make a living out of pornography, they open the source of their conflict. This theme is not fully explored. In my view, the real hero is Sebi. Love, Rudolf

Wed, 28 Sep 2005
Hello Andrej, I have just read Akim Akim and really loved the story!! Have also read the first two parts of Italian Brothers and enjoyed those as well and look forward to part 3. Your stories are truly wonderful. Your fan, Brian.

Mon, 11 Feb 2002

Hi Andrej, Just a line to say that I have finished reading Akim, Akim... this morning. It is a wonderful story, and so beautifully expressed. I think your descriptions of Akim, and the slow development of the relationship, compulsive reading. I have read your Priest Forever, which I also liked very much. So thank you for giving me the pleasure of reading such an excellent story. I have also visited you web site several times. With enjoyment. I was pleased to rediscover one of Wilfred Owen's poems, the one about the crucifix. I remember reading it some years ago, I think in a biography of Owen, but had since lost trace of it. I look forward to delving furtherinto your site. Thanks again. All the best to you, and may your pen/Mac continue to flow. Yours Jeff.

Mon, 20 Mar 2000

Hello there : ) I just had to write to you. I spent the last weekend reading your novel The Corporal. I loved it, it made me laugh and cry. Thank you very much for giving me such a pleasant time. I hope you will translate all your novels to english and I can hardly wait until it's done. I am about to start reading two of your novels now, akim and kea. And I am really looking forward to it. I am 56 yrs and live in Norway. And again: thank you for writing so lovely. Rocambole

Thu, 30 Dec 1999

Dear Andrej, I am 21 years old girl, student fourth year. I was just surfing around Internet when by chance came upon your site. So, wordless... I liked a lot your stories, no, actually they were amazing. I liked your style, I liked the way you write about their souls. Especially the novel "Akim, Akim" - I have to confess that this was the first time that I read something like this. I felt a little narrow minded - me, a girl, with serious boyfriend, not even imagining that there is also beauty in the "other world" as most people would say. Until now, honestly I would say to you that I had some prejudices, but now it is different. I thank you for this. Sincerely, Silvia

Thu, 9 Dec 1999

Hi Andrej: Well, I finished Akim, Akim.... It was absolutely wonderful in every way. I actually was in tears at the end because it was so moving! It was the beauty of the moment:, real, true, unselfish love, love which is eternal. The idea that you place sexual love as secondary to emotional love and commitment is wonderful. I hope that many young gay men read this story. The unselfish love between Piero and Akim is something which all people, gay or straight should strive for. That Piero's previous affair turned out empty and tiresome is proof that sexual activity alone is not enough to sustain a relationship. At all times your descriptions were vivid, exciting and tasteful. I said that I was in tears but you should know that I do not cry easily. I will be reading more of your stories at the earliest opportunity... I can't wait! ALL BEST WISHES and Thanks! TONY

Mon, 6 Dec 1999

Dear Andrej: Just became a member of msn teenage & college boys site. The idea of finding some excellent gay fiction was a complete surprise! I so very excited to discover your website and writings... I must confess that I've only begun reading Akim, Akim... To the point where Piero makes love with Gianni... Chapter 3? Decided to load the whole book to disk rather than continue on the internet. My 1st comment so far are: your writing is a don't like it..rather I ADORE IT!!! Beautiful, touching, passionate, thrilling all of these adjectives come immediately to mind. Old fashioned? YES.. in the best sense of the word. Subtle, not blatant..not emphasizing the obvious. The tenderness between these two beautiful young men is what is most immediately appealing and rewarding... The background of the story is expertly set making Piero's loss of virginity all the more exciting... perhaps delicious is a better word... I've always thought that Italian men are the best looking of all. I can't wait to continue reading: yet I just had to let you know how happy, indeed, THRILLED I'm thus far. I guess that I'm idealistic and the thought of a loving, lasting relationship between 2 guys is so profoundly magical. The idea of casual sex for a few minutes and then never seeing the person again strikes me as empty and not very satisfying. Well, that's it for now. THANK YOU.... I hope you rec'v many emails with praise for your work. TONY

Mon, 22 Nov 1999

I have just completed reading Akim Akim, and Black Clover and thoroughly enjoyed both of them. I must tell you that the more I read of your work, the more of a fan I become. There is much detail in your writing and, I think, much research. Your characterizations are real and there is so much love and feeling between you characters. All emotions - anger, jealousy, frustration are well represented and described. Thank you again. Good luck Scott

Tue, 31 Aug 1999
I just finished reading your story named Akim-Akim. I think that it is a wonderful piece. It makes me wish that I had a son or a young lover that I could dote upon in much the same manner as Piero. I really wanted to thank you for placing the story where other people like myself can enjoy it so much..... Wayne

Thu, 12 Aug 1999
Andrej, Thank you for posting such lovely stories on ASSGM! I just read your recent one, "Double Shunt", about the mafia mix-up, and it was wonderful. I also liked your Akim, Akim... story very much. By the way, I am female, and straight -- I just like sometimes to read sex stories about men. And I love your Italian accent -- I can hear it right through your writing! Best wishes, Sylphie

Thu, 1 Jul 1999

Dearest Andrej- Pardon the informality of this but I feel as though I know you from touching the very depths of your soul through your writings. I write a little, but nothing that compares to what you have written. You have the ability to catch the feel of what love really should be between two men without having to make it cheap with four letter words. Akim, Akim... is very good but I think to date Dear Eugenio or the Black Clover are my favorites, but perhaps that is the ever romantic in me. How much research have you put into these stories? They flow so naturally. Do you have a lover? For I am sure there are many men around the world that love you at least through your literature. At what age did you first come out? I can't help feeling that you have been very lucky in love as there is so much love that pours out through your work. Well as it is 1:22 in the morning here I really should go to bed. You really are a very special person. Warmest regards Dave

Wed, 28 Apr 1999
Dear Andrej, I read Akim, Akim... over again and enjoyed it just as much as I did the first time. I want to reread The Puppets' Theater as soon as I can, but I have been thwarted by many things. Thank you for posting my remarks on your web page. If you ever come to the United States, you know you have a lover waiting for you. Love, Ed

Tue, 20 Apr 1999

Hi Andrej, I want to thank you for some really wonderful stories. Up to now I have read "king of sitges" - "boy-san" - "akim, akim..." . Which one is the best ??? I really dont know - they were all just marvellous. I have not been to your home page yet - but I will as fast as I can get there. I will certainly not "loose" any of your stories. Thank you again Andrej - and I really beg you to keep up with your prominent work ! Love, Norboy

Thu, 15 Apr 1999

Dear Andrej: I start my letter in this personal way because, after reading more of your stories, I feel as if I almost know you. In the past week or so I have read Akim, Akim, Kea Tribe, and, most recently, Boy-San. Akim, Akim..., I thought at the time (I read that one first) was just beautiful. And, of course, I had tears of joy in my eyes many times. The Kea Tribe was a different type of story, and, of course I was sad with many of the situations and was happy with the outcome. The only thing that I thought, though, was that the ending was a little too abrupt. But, THEN, I read Boy-San. I don't know of a singular story that I have ever read that has moved me so deeply. In fact, just sitting here writing this is causing me to have tears in my eyes. I don't know how you can write about things that so many people in society are upset about and make it sound so beautiful. At the end of Boy-San I had to stop so many times to cry that I thought I would never finish it. My love to you Ed

Sun, 28 Mar 1999
I just finished reading The Puppets' Theater and enjoyed it as much as the previous stories written by you which I have read. I am in the process of downloading Akim, Akim.... Thanks again for the good stories and keep up the good work. Ed

Tue, 9 Mar 1999
Dear Andrej Just to say I really enjoyed "Akim, Akim...". I am a teacher and relate very much to these incidents - some of which have happened to me for real! Thankyou again. Regards Mathew (England)

Wed, 24 Feb 1999

Dear Andrej, Hurrah! You have finally found an editor worthy of your stories. I have been enthusiastic about some of your other stories. I was so impressed with "For Dress A Tattoo" (also "Akim, Akim...") that I wrote in praise. Even then, I mentioned that the story transcended the "translated" feel to the prose. I wished I could read Italian. What I wanted to tell you was that "Boy-San" was the best erotic story I've seen since forever. No qualifications about the language barrier. No nothing, it was great. Both you and your editor, Richard Hanna have created a wonderful thing. I admit, I cheated. I read the first chapter from Nifty, loved it, and went to your Web site and download the rest. So I am ahead of most of your readers. You had me so involved with your characters that I could barely read chapter 10 for the tears, especially when Yuki kneels in front of his brother begging forgiveness. You are a fine, fine writer. You have given me hours and hours of pleasure. Thank you so very much. Bob

Thu, 7 Jan 1999

Hello again, As I told you, I downloaded some of your stories. And I read last night "Boy-san" and this morning "Life starts at 25". Actually I liked very much both stories, even to the point that I can't tell you if "Akim, Akim..." il still the one I appreciate the most !!! Especially the story about Jacques and Alain, was very touching. It troubled me a lot and I couldn't get out of it : I left for my work only after finishing the story and it was about 12:30 (normally I start at 7:00) !!!! What was troubling me? I think the similarities of my own I life were in both caracters !!! The reaction of Alain's father was the same as for my father. I was at that time a great athlet (swimming). On the other side, I do have more similarities with Jacques - I do some writing (magazine articles), and most important I do have a handicap and I've some weight problems due to the inactivity. Even if my handicap isn't as important as the one of Jacques I could feel what you (he) was talking about. Otmar "la première vertu de l'homme est la tolérance"

Wed, 6 Jan 1999
Hello, I just downloaded some of your stories. The first I read was Akim, Akim... and I liked it very much. Then I read The Golden Collar and Black Clover and I felt the same way about them (although Akim is still the one I prefer). Beside: the stories "Yakuza" and "Boy-san" are they related one to another ? Many thanks. Greetings from France Otmar

Wed, 16 Dec 1998

Sir, For Dress A Tattoo is an amazing story. It's so remarkably good that I find myself gliding through it unmindful of the fact that individual sentences sound "translated." I don't care; I empathize with the characters; I wallow in the sinister, foreign atmosphere; I marvel at the intricate details of the (to an American) obscure world of the hereditary Japanese underworld. Christ, I admit it, I love the sex. It finally dawned on me that the mood of this story seemed familiar. I ran through my own small archive of stories I treasure and found that you are also the author of Akim, Akim.... So I owe you a double Thank You -- herewith presented. You have given me so much pleasure. So few of the stories in the Nifty Archive have a reason for existing other than as a thin wrapper for "and then we fucked our brains out." Not that I condemn Nifty. If you look hard enough, there are some really good stories in it. Some that would even rip your emotions to threads (My 15th Year -comes to mind.) But, in general the level of story quality is C-. Still it's an excellent resource and it's existence seems to inspire occasional orgasms of brilliance on the part of a few authors. I don't know how I got on this... I wanted to thank you for two excellent stories. AND ask if there are any more hidden in Nifty. I haven't read everything in it. I have to admit, I almost didn't look at this one as I didn't understand the title and am normally averse to tattoos. The best thing about these postings is the note that points out that there are many more of these stories just waiting the translation from the Italian. I have had only Latin and German (both a long time ago) or I would volunteer. I wish I could do something to get more stories of this quality out. Please, let me know if I can be of (other than translation) assistance. Bob

Tue, 8 Dec 1998
I read your story Akim, Akim..., and I loved it. It was more than just a story of just sex and fucking, but a true love story. Keep up the good work. I only wish that I could speak and read Italian to help you translate. All the best Peace Black Bishop

Mon, 16 Nov 1998
just to say hello and to tell that I really appreciate your stories I read 'til now : The Black Clover The Eight Books of the Golden Collar Akim, Akim... Beside, it was Akim the first story I read and it made me searching for your other stories. bye Otmar

Mon, 9 Nov 1998
Hi Andrej: Thank you very much for sharing "Akim, Akim..." with us. You write beautiful stories! I tried your website this afternoon but didn't get very deeply into it. I plan on it tonight while I'm at work, IF time permits Keep up the good writing. I enjoy your style and story telling abilities. I sure wish I could write like that! My best, Bill.

Sun, 1 Nov 1998

Hi! My name is Richard; I'm 55 years old and, now, am semi-retired from the teaching profession (English, Languages, and Linguistics). I've just finished reading "Akim, Akim..." and I was genuinely moved by its unashamed Romanticism and lyric language I'm most impressed by your writing, and I plan to read all of the materials you've posted to your site thus far. Keep up the great work!! Very sincerely, Richard

Fri, 30 Oct 1998

I admire your writings. The "Akim, Akim..." story held me. Just got and finished part 9 tonight (ASSGM mailing list). This little letter is simply to let you know that your work is appreciated. I also like your "Home" and "Rooms" theme on your web page. I may steal the concept-- but not the execution of the concept. It's interesting to see (almost hear) the Italian sentence structure and thought patterns in the English translations of your stories. Very nice touch. Don't ever let your proofreaders/ beta readers/ whatever clean it up too much! I.e., don't ever sanitize it for the Englisch ear. It's great just like it is. A reader and fan, Tom

Sun, 10 Oct 1998

Hi Andrej, Most of the gay stories, available on the web, are written on a level that does not require a high school diploma, to read and understand them. "Akim, Akim..." is on this level. It is easy to read, and there is nothing in it, that would make the average reader, go running for his dictionary. "The Eight Books of The Golden Collar" is aimed at an entirely different audience. One, which is a lot more sophisticated. I like the pace that is kept throughout the story. Each chapter, made me want to finish reading it; so that I can read the next one. Near the end of chapter 4, the history teacher enters a discussion with Friend, about History. I had this terrible urge, to start a philosophical discussion, about History. Nota Bene, I said discussion, not debate. It seemed, that it took me forever to get through that part of the story. On chapter 5, I like the twist at the end; where Friend passes out on Sky! My favorite main character has to be Sky! Sky reminds me of my very first lover! Both were from an extremely wealthy family and very well educated. Sex was great and we always had season tickets to the opera. Friend is the main character; but the story evolves around Sky & Friend. Personally, I thought that a little more time could have been spent developing the character of Sky, as the secondary character. It takes two people to have a meaningful and lasting relationship. It is also a give and take situation. Anyway, I really enjoyed the story. Jerry

Thu, 24 Sep 1998
Hi, I just finished to read "Akim, Akim...", and I found it to be a most beautiful, really wonderful story. I didn't like the English stile so much, but I perservered until the end. I am glad I did. Cory

Wed, 23 Sep 1998

Dear Andrej, I found "The Black Clover" to be as sensitive, tender and charming as it is "Akim, Akim...". I think the overriding appeal of your fiction -- at least what I've read so far -- is the genuine, sincere romance that exists between your principal characters. I've never experienced the kinds of loving relationships you write about and neither have most of your readers. But the wonderful reality of living in such a relationship is something most of us long for. Howard

Tue, 15 Sep 1998
Hi. I was searching for erotic fiction, and I discovered "Akim, Akim...", your beautiful love story. It is rich in character development and touching, even in its most graphic moments. Thank you. Howard

Wed, 09 Sep 1998

Andrej, Thank you for Akim, Akim..., such a passionate, tender and moving story. I am filled with desire just reading about a love so true and pure. It has awakened feelings in me that I thought I had long ago suppressed. Is it based on a real life experience? I earnestly hope so...I do so want it to be a true life event...something that I had hoped for in my own life (but never experienced). You are a gifted writer and I hope to see more of your stories in the future. Please keep writing such wonderful and meaningful prose. The poignancy of your narrative is muchly needed in this genre. Again, thank you for making this tired old man feel so warm inside. Tom

Tue, 08 Sep 1998

I have just finished reading your story Akim, Akim... and must tell you how much I enjoyed it. I like erotic fiction but have seldom read anything so beautiful. This is a very unusual piece of writing. It is sensual yes, but so much more than that. A good story well told with interesting believable characters. Akim is such a beautiful character that I am filled with emotion thinking about him. And Piero is such a fine honest and noble person. I like this very much. This is not a sex story, this is a real love story. Thank you very much. I hope you write more about Piero and other stories as well. Please consider me a fan of your writing. I would love to chat with you. Affectionately, Shed