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Hidden Affections: Two Sides of Love

 

An unexpected spark. A media storm. A love story that dares to defy expectations.


Tyler Deveaux is content with his quiet life. A talented architect in sunny Miami, he’s focused on his solo firm, far from the flashing cameras and drama of celebrity life. But everything changes when he enters the “Design Edward Branch’s Nest” contest—a chance to design a luxurious dream home for none other than Edward Winton Branch, one of the biggest names in professional football.


For Tyler, it’s a business opportunity. For Edward, it becomes something much more personal.


Confident, self-assured, and irresistibly charming, Edward is used to controlling every play—on and off the field. When he discovers Tyler’s work, he’s intrigued. When he meets Tyler, he’s captivated. Soon, what began as a professional collaboration turns into a sizzling, high-profile romance that neither of them expected.


But fame comes with a price. As secrets are spilled and private moments go public, Tyler must decide:
Is he ready to fight for love when the whole world is watching? Or will the cost of being in Edward’s spotlight be more than his heart can handle?

 

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Hidden Affections: Two Sides of Love

“I normally do not choose to read contemporary romance novels because they oftentimes aren’t engaging enough for me. But, I decided to be open-minded about reading this book and I am very glad I did! This book was an easy read but filled with twists and turns I wasn’t expecting and kept me entertained until the end. Highly recommend you give this book a shot, especially if you’re like me and don’t normally enjoy romance novels. Also, just be aware there are a few spicy romance sections in the book where verbiage gets detailed and maybe even a bit explicit. Definitely recommend this book for adult readers. This book also qualifies as LGBTG+ friendly in my opinion as the main characters are part of this group.”
Mariah D.
“‘Hidden Affections’ takes a brave look at what it means to be a gay man in the South while checking all the romance boxes! It’s brave, it’s fun, and it’s sexy! I love the way Tyler’s narration is so conversational. Eddie is, in so many ways, the perfect book boyfriend while also being deeply complicated. The interwoven exploration of sexuality, faith, and relationships is beautifully done. The author does an excellent job of showing us these characters through Tyler’s eyes while also giving them nuance, grace, and depth. Tyler himself develops throughout the story to really encompass what it is to fully become oneself. Following his journey was such a joy. I’d love to see more of him!”
Allie Cook
“Love in all its expressions is evident in this tale of a ‘secret’ gay romance. This novel explores themes of identity, romance, machismo, and ambition. The author artfully gives glimpses into the lives of African Americans who struggle with family values and bold self-identity. ~ ‘I ain’t no sissy because I got soft hands.’ Although, the turns may give you whiplash, this novel is well worth the read to explore the nuances of love and relationships.”
D.J.

About the Author

 

Zaire Anwar is a lifelong educator and storyteller who blends personal experiences with heartfelt observations to create a compelling romantic story. Inspired by his own journey and small-town life, Hidden Affections marks his debut novel—a story of love, identity, and self-acceptance. With a background in art, music, and education, Zaire hopes his work reminds readers that everyone deserves to be seen, understood, and loved.

 

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Hidden Affections: Two Sides of Love

FAQ

1. What inspired you to write this book?

I was originally inspired by seeing others writing stories in a forum. Once I began
writing, the story unfolded and the small voice within said to me, "This story will help
someone and/or their loved ones understand them better." So to know that I could
help somebody feel more whole or for someone else to embrace people who are
different from them, that was the inspiration.

2. What will your readers gain from your book?

Readers will gain an open-minded concept. They will begin to see that everyone
deserves love.

3. What was your unique quotient for this project?

Tenderness. When reading the story, there is a unique and tangible tenderness that I
have written within this book. But it extends far beyond that. You see a tenderness in
each of the characters who are largely featured. In one way, toward another
character, whether it be when they are in need or because of the emotion felt
towards them. And in other ways, when they themselves are struggling and are
silently asking for it, tenderness is around just about every corner.

4. How did becoming an author help in your brand/business?

At the moment, it has helped me with confidence through accomplishment. While I
think for me, it is a long game and the effects are yet to truly be revealed, at this
early stage, I feel as if I can complete big and/or difficult tasks. Also, I am at a point
of seeing the vision more clearly for future projects with one completed.

5. What are your future plans as an author?

For now, I plan to complete the other two books in this trilogy. With book two already
written, I just need to write book three, which I have already begun plotting. I also
have other genres that I will write in, including inspirational (leaning toward poetry),
some children's books, and some nonfiction guides. I also see this as an opening to
do something that terrifies me, but I feel that I am being called to, which is public
speaking.

6. What will you learn from this book?

I think what I will learn is the power of "I will." “I'll try,” “I have,” and “I can” are all
great statements, but there is something in the power of “I will.” That unlocks a
motivation in me that life's issues seem to push into the shadows. Not only in doing
the work to publish the book, but also in the actual story. We see, actually three, of
the characters determined and in their own way say "I will" to something. Each of the
three works to complete that will. I apply that to my life now more than ever.