Lake Drive Books Signs Eric Feltes: Reclaiming Confidence, Joy, and Freedom After Religious Harm

Dear Friend of Lake Drive,

I’m delighted to announce that Lake Drive Books has signed author, coach, speaker, and educator Eric Feltes for his forthcoming book, tentatively titled The Gospel of You: A Queer Guide to Healing from Religious Harm and Reclaiming Confidence, Joy, and Freedom.

At Lake Drive Books, we think a lot about what it means to heal after harmful religious experiences. We publish books about spiritual abuse, deconstruction, recovery, identity, new spirituality, and authentic community because we know how difficult it can be to rebuild a life after shame has shaped the way we see ourselves. That work feels especially important in our current political climate, when queer people find themselves at the center of cultural and religious debates.

This is a time to pay attention to the health, flourishing, and personal growth of our queer communities. In this case, Eric brings a much-needed focus to the experiences of gay men who grew up in religious environments that taught them to distrust themselves and suppress their desires.

A life coach, speaker, actor, educator, and content creator, Eric specializes in helping individuals navigate religious deconstruction and spiritual recovery. With a master's degree in educational leadership, a background in teaching, and years of coaching experience, Eric has worked with countless people seeking healing, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Through his coaching practice, group programs, public speaking, and widely followed social media, he has become a trusted guide for those reclaiming their lives.

What excites me most about Eric’s work is that it is deeply practical while remaining profoundly hopeful. For example, his framework, the "Gay Positioning System," offers readers language to name roadblocks, challenge harmful beliefs, and move toward lives marked by confidence, connection, joy, and freedom.

But perhaps even more importantly, Eric is doing something that takes imagination and courage. It takes strength to build a language and culture to name what has harmed us and what we can claim for ourselves in the process of healing. When we're pushed aside, shamed, mistreated, or told that essential parts of ourselves are unacceptable—intentionally or unintentionally—it becomes that much harder to find the words. Eric is doing that difficult and unique work.

We at Lake Drive couldn't be more excited to partner with Eric on this important book. I believe his voice is one that many readers need right now, and I can't wait to share The Gospel of You with the world.