Until September

Finalist, Legacy Fiction — American Writing Awards 2023
Finalist — Pager Turner Awards 2023
Finalist — Tucson Festival of Books Literary Awards

“As devastating as it is heart-warming, Harker Jones crafts a story that brings together all the best parts of a coming-of-age romance. ‘Until September’ is a true page turner that moves quickly while still cutting deeply. Throughout the story, Jones’s prose is effortless and expressive, subtly infusing the pages with a sense of lyrical beauty. Although the narrative unquestionably shines, the characters are the crown jewel. With a cast of ultimately flawed but lovable teenagers, the plot is driven by their deep-rooted characterization.” — The BookLife Prize

“Novelist and screenwriter Harker Jones is someone you should know. The Los Angeles–based writer and editor has charmed readers with his first published novel, the beautiful and tender gay coming-of-age story ‘Until September,’ a book about first love and the fragile nature of friendship.” — The Advocate

“‘Until September’ stands as a masterpiece.” — American Writing Awards

“In Harker Jones’ masterpiece, ‘Until September,’ he weaves a tale that will leave you rooting for the characters through every obstacle. With each turn of the page, you’ll find yourself drawn deeper into their lives and invested in their journey. And the ending? It’s superb. This story will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.” — Midwest Book Review

“‘Until September’ by Harker Jones is a beautifully rendered exploration of the human condition, the complexities of friendship, and the transformative power of love. The author’s ability to capture the essence of a particular era while addressing universal themes of self-discovery, longing, and the irrevocable passage of time is a testament to his storytelling prowess.” —A Look Inside, 5 out of 5 stars

“‘Until September’ by Harker Jones is an impressive novel with complex, relatable characters. He addresses plenty of existential questions without imposing burdensome answers on his readers. The novel’s conclusion was quite moving, which you rarely find in other stories addressing this theme. This is a solid tale about youth, memories, heartaches, and choices. It sounds simple, but reading it will make you discover that it is far more profound.” — Readers’ Favorite, 5 out of 5 rating

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“I was so young when it all began that the blame hardly feels like mine. …

In the lull between the conservative ’50s and the turbulent ’60s, Kyle Ryan Quinn, an introspective, sentimental boy, leads a golden life. He’s rich, beautiful and smart, and he vacations each year on the same island with the same circle of friends: entitled Adonis Trent; acerbic Claudia; practical Dana; and frivolous Carly. Haunted by the ghosts of a tragedy that took place in his youth, Kyle is more sensitive than his privileged friends. He understands loss, and secrets.

When he meets Jack Averill, a quiet, bookish boy, his fateful 18th summer on the island, Kyle falls hopelessly, heedlessly in love. As he befriends and attempts to woo Jack — and tries to integrate him into his tight-knit yet troubled circle — he’s pursued himself by another summer boy, Trey, who will stop at nothing to win Kyle’s love, all while Trent toys with the affections of an island girl. Amid mounting familial, sexual and peer pressures, all four young men make heartbreaking decisions that will steal their innocence, destroy lives and consume them forever.