Monday, Monday, Monday. What could we possibly have for you on a Monday? Oh yeah! We have a new featured story for you. This week, courtesy of Timothy M., we are taking a look at Red Running Shoes by aditus. Remember, if you're reading a story (or have read one) that you'd like to see featured in the blog, simply write a review and send it to me!

Looking back over the featured story reviews I’ve done, I realize they tend to revolve around story content or characters which annoy or upset readers. Maybe this is because such stories make more of an impression, or maybe I just like ranting in reviews after I read chapters. In any case, the subject of this review certainly fits the bill.

Indeed, Red Running Shoes may take the prize as the tale which has sparked the most intense reactions so far. It had readers leaving incensed reviews and arguing heatedly in the story discussion forum. Not everyone agreed with Aditus about the way the story ended, and there were plenty of shouting and at the characters during the unfolding of events.

I have to admit it took me a while to start reading RRS. I was put off by the story description outlining the main character of Jonah who is ‘quirky, irrational, impulsive, talks to Zach, his imaginary laptop friend, collects people who want to take care of him, and slightly possessive, manipulative boyfriends.’ Most of all the word irrational gave me severe doubts, but I decided to trust Aditus and my GA friends who seemed to enjoy the story. Did I regret this decision? No, I guess not... in spite of all the and

Once I took the plunge, I was quickly caught up in the magic Aditus weaves. Jonah was betrayed and hurt by someone he loved and trusted, and his reaction was to run away to another city/country. As the story starts, he returns and tries to pick up his life. He longs for love but is scared of another broken heart. The author makes us engage ourselves in Jonah and the people around him, we hope the best and fear the worst, as we alternately laugh and curse over his antics.

There are some wonderful people in Jonas’ life but I think my favorite is the Sicilian hat maker and photographer who plays a crucial role in the story. In fact, the description of the landscape and the food in Sicily has me eager to go there on vacation. That reminds me: While reading the story please make sure to have your favorite snacks available, since Aditus’ detailed descriptions of delicious meals will probably make you crave food as well as wine or coffee.

If you like romance rollercoasters, RRS is worth trying. I guarantee all your emotions will be played upon. And the image of a dove tattoo will stay with you forever.