Flashback to 1989 with your favorite characters from ''Queer as Folk'' in this new line of books based on the record-breaking Showtime series hailed as ''wonderful'' ''(Newsweek)'' and ''groundbreaking'' ''(People)!'' Before they were grown men working and playing in Pittsburgh, Brian Kinney and Michael Novotny were high-school friends dealing with bullies, secret crushes, and their emerging sexuality. Step back in time with two of ''Queer as Folk's'' hottest characters in the first book in this provocative new series.Every Nine Seconds On the eve of Brian Kinney's eighteenth birthday, he and his best friend, Michael Novotny, celebrate a bond that could link them forever if their future paths don't separate them for good. In a few short weeks Brian, the seductive soccer star, will leave for college, where he'll be free to explore the adult pursuits in which he's only dabbled in high school. Michael is destined for a more sedate life in community college while living at home with his eccentric mom. But before their lives diverge, a hot new club will open, they'll go to the prom ''stag'' together, and family strife will turn their world upside down. Brian and Michael still have some unforgettable times to share before graduation ushers in the next stages of their lives.