A FREE Uncensored Book by Stu Schwartz
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Reviews (unedited, exactly as posted by the reviewers)
Five stars from RDC: Showing Off. Fun look into the motivations and adventures of an exhibitionist presented without shame and with joy.
Five stars from John H from California. Ethical Exhibitionist. This book dispells the idea that an exhibitionist is just a dirty old man in a raincoat who flashes people who don't want to be flashed. Eddie, the protagonist in these stories, is an exhibitionist who performs for audiences that participate or benefit from his unabashed approach. The book is well-written and takes you through several different experiences. I enjoyed it and I learned something.
Five stars from Bay Area Man: A wonderful read. I loved this book. It is beautifully written with wonderful details that made the stories seem real and alive. In telling the story of the protagonist from childhood through his 20's, we see the evolution of a gay man whose sexuality is defined by his erotic fascination with being naked and sexual with an appreciative audience. It is a unique book, erotic but not porn. It is simply the best book I've read that describes what it is like to grow up with the "exhibitionist gene." If that interests you, you'll enjoy it as well.
Five stars from Yang L. My perspective broadened. The book shows how exhibitionism could be a legit outlet for one's sexuality.
Five stars from Charlie: An eye opener for the open-minded. Bravo Mr. Schwartz!!! A wonderful glimpse into psyche of an exhibitionist. The protagonist is young, healthy, intelligent, and not ashamed to be the person he was at heart. A lovely “coming of age” novel. Will there be a sequel to this gem?
Five stars from Amazon Customer: Great Book. What a great book. Hope to see another one from this author.
Five stars from Carol Van Lehel: Honesty. Although this is a novel, its first person voice gives honestly and sincerity to the feelings of the author’s character ( or the author- it is hard to separate the two). It is refreshing that the emotions surrounding both being gay and being comfortable with nudity and exhibitionism are honestly expressed. Notable is the fact that no matter how “ out” the protagonist is in the writing, with parents and family one must usually keep a private life always secret - in some type of closet - and this is true for many people, not just gay people.
Five stars from Amazon Customer: Great, relatable voice. So friendly! Lights On — Clothes Off: Confessions of an Unabashed Exhibitionist by Stuart Schwartz will expand your sensitivity related to exhibitionism. The book is narrated by Eddie Saul who tells his story of being a proud homosexual who likes nothing more than a crowd gawking at his naked body. The book follows Eddie in his ability to feed this desire. Eddie is lovable and relatable, and his joy for what he does drives the plot forward. In fact, his enthusiasm is infectious. It’s enthusiasm that leads Eddie to opportunities, financial gain, and interesting relationships.
The book demonstrates a fresh writer’s voice that is able to make nudist sensibilities accessible and even endearing. Eddie becomes a friend, confiding in the reader. Voice is often one of those aloof skills of writing a novel that is difficult for a writer to master. It’s not easy for a writer to present a story with an original voice. But the voice is refreshing because Eddie tells familiar stories—such as a gay man coming out of the closet—in a conversational and relaxed way. This sense of feeling relaxed extends to receiving the wisdom of gay identity and desire. So often, stories about homosexuality and desire feature sadness, cruelty, heartbreak, and frustration. But this isn’t the case with Eddie. His story is uplifting and entertaining. He displays his joy as readily as he displays his genitalia.
This means readers never really know if Eddie has any internal conflicts. Anything that might be a potential setback for the protagonist is dealt with in a quick sentence. For instance, we learn that Eddie does not want his parents to know about the secret life he leads, but the reader is never filled in as to why not or what is at stake if his parents find out. His parents handled his sexuality with ease and tenderness. What would it take for his parents to be equally accepting of their son’s exhibitionism? This and other potential conflicts are resolved in ways that make Eddie’s life seem too easy. Readers may finish this book wondering about all the challenges Eddie is not telling us about. Perhaps there will be a sequel told from another perspective.
While it’s light on dramatic tension, this novel does give a strong sense of what it’s like to pose nude for a Life Drawing class where the instructor encourages “tactile learning.” As this method of learning is no longer part of art programs, Eddie’s experience is so precious because it is so ephemeral. It’s reassuring to know a reader can open a novel and participate in a culture that is rare, a hidden gem.
Lights On, Clothes Off is a light-hearted reading experience that stimulates curiosity, appreciates kinky desire, and perhaps even helps a reader relate to his or her own nudity with fresh enthusiasm. I highly recommend this character-driven jubilee that celebrates the simple joy of being seen.
Five stars from Phil: Un-Put-downable! This book is so good! Eddie’s story is so raw and true, it unlocks a part locked deep down inside of us even if that’s just confidence to be our self’s. Thank you Stuart for giving us this amazing piece of literature.
Five stars from Bob Stewart: Wonderfully written in first person and very visually descriptive. I found myself frequently wondering whether or not this might actually be autobiographical, at least in part. My only negative reaction to this wonderful story was that there appeared to be no issues of real danger in any of the scenarios where the main character found himself. Bravo! I highly recommend the book.
Five stars from Andrew: A Fascinating Look at a Unique Style of Creative Expression. The first observation I made of the book's protagonist, Eddie Saul, was how optimistic and wide-eyed he was. Author Stuart Schwartz takes us on a fast-paced series of entertaining adventures with this young man as he comes of age at nudist retreats, painting classes, strip clubs, and gay bars. What started as a routine naked swim at his local YMCA as a kid ignites a lifelong curiosity in Eddie, one that he boldly explores, all the while pursuing the educational dreams of his Jewish family. For any reader looking for a book about powering through fear, dabbling in the unknown, and ultimately finding your own unique joy, Stu Schwartz gently encourages us to set aside our rules and our judgments and own all that makes us so completely interesting, just like Eddie Saul.
Five stars from Amazon Customer: Highly recommend this book. Healthy view of exhibitionism explained. I love this book. Congratulations Mr. Schwartz.
Five stars from Amazon Customer: Fantastic Read! In Stuart’s debut novel, a young man embarks on a journey of self-discovery with surprising results. His determination to explore his exhibitionism and to let the world within his sphere explore him sets the stage for an exciting book. The ending is a fitting denouement to an epic and memorable journey in a young man's life. I highly recommend you giving this book a read.
Five stars from Amazon Customer: An unusual coming of age. Not the usual choices, but a good heart and clear boundaries make this a sexy, entertaining tale. Well told with a solid ring of truth and introspection.
Five stars from Mark Ian Kendrick: Remarkably Engaging Work. What an engaging story! Well written, thoroughly unabashed, fun to read and remarkably revealing. One of the best parts of this novel is how it's a slice of gay history. Stu performed in some of the clubs that are part of our culture, our history... and are something that the current generation can barely imagine. The slice of time he writes about is gone now. But he's made sure it's not forgotten!
Five stars from Bruce E. Abbott: A tour de force into what comes off for an exhibitionist. Alternately serious, introspective, sexy & just plain fun! Read it with an open mind.
Five stars from Tamara: Step out of your comfort zone and read this! I love to read books that surprise me, books that show me something of our world that I know nothing about. This well-written unabashed look at exhibitionism does that and more. No spoiler, but if you are squeamish about nudity, erotica, and/or the gay lifestyle, you may want to give this book a miss. Since nothing makes me squeamish, I read this book with delight. Eddie Saul's story is at times laugh-out-loud funny and at other times poignant and even a bit sad. Written as a memoir, the reader will find it easy to believe that the story is based on real experiences in both the world of a Jewish son and the world of a gay exhibitionist. I look forward to reading whatever Stewart Schwartz writes next, be it more of Eddie's story or something entirely different. And, one more thing, I love the cover art! It's is beautiful and frame-worthy – and – it is totally appropriate for the book.
Five stars from John Wasser: A side of Stu I never knew in our volleyball days. Here is a guy who tells much of his life story in a totally unashamed way. The writing was mostly well done, with the most common exception being a confusion between uninterested and disinterested. But there were only a few other glitches in the lengthy book. (I get really put off by books that are full of errors.) Much of the book is mildly comical, and I laughed s lot. Stu has moved to Californication, but hey, this guy used to be the public information officer for a busy fire and rescue squad, so just think about how many stories could be roaming around under that white hair. Perhaps we will see more books as good as this one, from this talented writer. I did discuss my reading of this book with my physical trainer at the VA Medical Center, and he said Stuart had been one of his professors some years back, but that he would not be purchasing this book. So I get it. This book is not for everyone, but if you are gay, a nudist, or just into general reading of explicit scenes, this book is for you!
Five stars from Michael Reed: I’m ready for my close-up. This fun and sexy book is a must for those that like to strut their stuff. It is supposed to be fiction but has all the earmarks of being true confessions. It will make you laugh at times and parts are very exciting in a somewhat erotic way. My only wish is that there was some of the drawings that were mentioned excluded. The cover art work is stunning. I have already purchased three more of this book to give as gifts.
Five stars from Douglas/Tom Walsh: A naked truth. Lights On–Clothes Off is a delightful titillating tale of an unabashed, non-apologetic exhibitionist. Told in the first person, the reader is introduced to an exposé of characters and situations that makes one feel like a prosaic voyeur. An easy if naughty read, well-written, maybe sexually provocative, but an enjoyable journey nonetheless.
Five stars from JKenn: Wow! This was an interesting read. To be able to be so free in public nudity and exhibitionism must be exhilarating beyond imagination.
Five stars from Bill Fry: Great book by an author who walks his walk and talks his talk. Stu is an author I admire and desire to emulate. His life is one of freedom and promise. His refreshing attitude and poignant stories are worth your time in reading this most riveting book.
Five stars from Raquel Strzeskowski: Amazing book. Would recommend it to anyone.
Three stars from Rick Moore: Bold and Unapologetic! I read a lot and I especially like books with a sexy gay main character living his life boldly and without apology as 'Eddie', the main character in this book does. I was disappointed when the book ended somewhat abruptly leaving me wondering about 'Eddie's' future. Maybe there will be a second book.
Author's note: Sorry you missed the section in the last chapter where it was revealed that there was more to Eddie's story. Please watch for my next book tentatively titled, 'I'll be Naked at Six,' for more of Eddie's exhibitionism.
Art Update
-Jaron A. Stokes painted the Home Page figures. His work is also presented on the cover of my novel. Thank you Jaron!
-Brian Meyer's work appears on the Reviews & Updates Page of the website. Thank you Brian!
Diversity Rules Magazine
"Lights On—Clothes Off" was featured in the January 2021 issue. A big thank you to Editor Jim Koury. And I'm honored to have a column, "Sans Clothing," in this monthly publication. (diversityrulesmagazine.com)
Thank You
Huge thanks to these persons for their valuable assistance with the development of my manuscript. Trusted Friend and Advisor: Richard Bonacci. Reviewers: Gary Mollenkopf, Gene Morones, David Bardsley and James Wigdel. Reading Hosts: Kevin & Chad Hutchison and Robert Wheeler & Darrell Netherton. Artist: Jaron A. Stokes. Editor: Ron Donaghe. And the biggest thanks to my very supportive husband: Karl Peterson.
Let's Talk
I'm always happy to meet, virtually or in-person, with bookclubs, writers' guilds, LGBTQ+ organizations, college classes, nudist groups, and with individuals interested in exhibitionism or voyeurism. If you want to discuss the novel and my writing with me please let me know. I'm available dressed or sans clothing. Please contact me via email: stuauthor@gmail.com Thanks.
Tell Your Friends
Please tell your friends about my novel. It's an interesting and unique story that is appropriate for adult readers.
Pre-publication Reviews
"Eddie Saul, the main character in Stu Schwartz's bold and revealing novel, undresses himself as he reveals his desire to be naked with all eyes on him. The details of his inner struggles and of the varied opportunities he created to expose himself for a wide range of audiences confirm that he is an unstoppable exhibitionist. This fictional memoir is a provocative bare-it-all read." Mark Kendrick, author of the widely acclaimed novel, Desert Sons.
"Intriguing and well written account of the life experiences of a fascinating and extraordinary individual. Fun, eye opening, and entertaining reading." Dr. Gene Morones, Professor of English and Literature, Retired