Monthly Maker SpotlightNovember 2026
The Wallace House of Pain
Troubled family relations, modern social justice issues, deeply personal choices.
Adult contemporary fiction - novelette
Activist Xander Wallace and his straitlaced father do not have an easy relationship. Jim’s views on race, immigration, gender, sexuality and even Millennials alienate his son no matter how hard Xander tries to find common ground. Toss in Jim’s second marriage ten months after Xander’s mother died and it’s a volatile cocktail. How, against this backdrop, will Xander ever dare to bare his soul and reveal his greatest secret?
"Stevens has done a wonderful and respectful job of bringing across a positive message of acceptance and love that any person who has ever struggled with that would love to read. I’m excited to read any future novels by this author and see what impact she has on the world today!"
- Readers' Favorite
“A short but rewarding read. This book is a great study in character and relationships. The awkwardness between Xander and his father and stepmother is painfully recognizable and every reader will feel his discomfort radiating from the page. I particularly felt for Xander’s stepmother who is clearly desperate to bond with a stepson, to the point of cringe-worthiness.”
- A Little Book Problem
“My heart went out to Xander. It’s desperately sad that so many deal with trying to live a lie for fear of being made to feel they’re somehow less worthy of love and acceptance. This book sends out a powerful message to all.”
- Chat About Books
“The tension between father and son is palpable. S.M Stevens does a great job of creating a relationship between the two that is believable and tremendously tense at the same time. This book is about knowing yourself and being accepted by others. A touching story with a nice reflection.”
- Wottaread
“The Wallace House of Pain explores the differences in generational attitudes toward social justice issues, in parallel with exploring a difficult father-son relationship. The novelette delves into that age-old question: Can two people meet in the middle without sacrificing their own beliefs and convictions?”
- B for Bookreview
Pickup available at Manchester Craft Market
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