Revere’s Gerald Cole authors young adult novel
Story by Marianne Salza
Every decision leads to consequences; and as a teenager, having a confidant to help navigate difficult choices and experiences, or be a safe and encouraging influence is invaluable. In Gerard C. Cole, Senior’s, coming of age story, “Jailed by Lust Released by Love,” the Revere author explores love, faith, healing, and renewal through sensitive topics such as teenage pregnancy, abortion, and family values.
“I’m happy to have written this book so that young people can gain momentum on positivity. I think it’s important for them to know that there’s a book like this out there,” expressed Cole about his book that has become an Amazon best-seller.
In the young adult fiction novel, 16-year-old Sheila is being raised by her assiduous nurse mother who sends Sheila to Chicago to visit her aunt. Sheila’s aunt introduces her to her friend’s son, Damien, so she can explore the city with someone her own age. Flirtatious and fast-paced New Yorker, Sheila, develops a relationship with Damien, and she begins to confide in him about her disappointment in not knowing her father.
“The book is a roller coaster ride that will leave you not wanting to put the book down,” said Cole. “Once you finish the book, it’s a loving feeling about family, faith, relationships, and life in general.”
Cole feels that “Jailed by Lust Released by Love” is ideal for teenagers, parents, and classroom discussions. Through his travels, Cole has noticed that many children do not live in a household with two parents, and has spoken to youth who revealed that they are not on speaking terms with their mothers or fathers.
One reader — a 23-year-old Malden resident who works in the hospitality field — boasted about her appreciation for “Jailed by Lust Released by Love,” and described how she connected with book’s message about relationships. She believes in the importance of having someone reassuring to talk to about decisions.
“It’s a great, detailed book; especially for teenagers and young adults. The book has a lot of good advice and lessons. It’s really emotional. When I was reading it, I had to stop and cry,” shared the young lady who revealed her discomfort in opening up to her strict mother. “High school students will not only love it but need it.”
An Emerson College creative writing graduate class reviewed “Jailed by Lust Released by Love,” and discussed themes of redemption, family dynamics, and the sexualization of the young generation with Cole over two days of virtual meetings.
“I had the pleasure of reading your manuscript – a very interesting study of social issues as well as character exploration,” responded Emerson graduate student, Abril T. “At the heart of it, your story deals with a confrontation between the choices people make and the consequences of those choices.”
Cole was born in the Bronx, New York, as one of 11 children. At the age of nine, he and his siblings were separated into foster care and group homes. He later became a single, teenage father, and has since dedicated his life to supporting and advocating for the youth.
“I was going to do this book on myself; but spiritually, I was told to do the book for the younger people,” explained Cole. “I’m glad that I did. All my life, I tried to give back and be a mentor to the youth. I try to encourage them, whether by faith or being there for them to talk to. I pride myself on that. If I could help one person, I’ve done my job. That’s what being an author for me is all about.”
Now, Cole is married with four children, and five grandchildren. He works as a real estate broker, serves as an armed security officer for a local theater, and offers his assistance to his wife, a personal stylist in Boston. Cole is a sports fan and vocalist, often singing gospel music.
Originally published in 2022, “Jailed by Lust Released by Love” has recently been released in Spanish, and is available for purchase, as well as in audiobook form, through Amazon.
Cole is in the process of writing his second book, “Deceitful Intentions.” The non-fiction tells the story of traveling the country as a talent manager for his nieces and nephews, who were featured on “America’s Got Talent.” A couple of months after performing on “America’s Got Talent,” the family was contacted by a woman offering them $300,000 toward their own show in Branson, Missouri. Cole left his job, and his nieces and nephews were taken out of school in New York to pursue the opportunity, only to learn three months later, that the woman was a fraud. “Deceitful Intensions” is anticipated to be published in early 2025.
