Stephen

Good chapter! Now we have an idea about what got Weiss killed. I'm still not sure why the bad guys tried to kill Dean though, wouldn't it be easier to simply break in and steal his computers?

So now we will get to meet these absentee people called parents. That'll give you an opportunity for a little fun. Looks like things are getting worse for poor Allen. Will Matt reveal what's on the note? Hmmm....

I'm enjoying this story a lot. Growing up I remember reading old National Geographic Magazines about Rhodesia, and how it was one of the most beautiful areas in the world. To have seen it at a time when it was new to Western eyes would have been overwhelming. The photo of the bridge in the sunlight through the mists of Victoria Falls is perfect for this story. Did you take it yourself? Jacob's family makes me think of those E.M.Forster, D.H.Lawrence, & Sommerset Maugham classic period tales. I think you're doing a great job with your characters. The way you portray them seems very real and authentic to the period, when roles were strictly conformed to, and the sense of doing one's duty was paramount. I have a feeling that Jacob is in for quite an adventure, and he might have some of his peconceived notions challenged in Africa. He's obviously a highly adaptive person, so I can't wait to see how deals with the 'Dark Continent".

What a great chapter. I love the imagery, the emotions, and suspense. Sure, I have loads of questions, but I'm enjoying this story just the way you're telling it. I look forward to chapter three.

I just found this story, and after reading it through, decided that I really like it. I think the characters are realistic and the plot is compelling. There are so many ways things could go now that secrets have been told. I look forward to the next chapter and the coming storm that looms on the horizon. -I prefer Matt's mother's new name, -didn't like 'Eliz'. Rebecca is much better.

After re-reading the last couple of chapters, I still had no clue as to why Spencer got on the bus with all his bullies. You didn't say, but now I think I know why. I won't say either, but I think I understand a little more about Spencer's motivation. And no, he's not a total masochist, -just a kinda' sorta' maybe one. I can hardly wait to see if I'm right.

I only found this story yesterday and read it all through at once. The story is one of those that if not written with such style and captivating manner, the violence and unappealing main characters would run you right off. Let's face it, if this wasn't fiction, then half of the main characters would be in Juvie, and we'd be left with either no story at all or else a soap opera. So write on, and we'll just know that it's fiction, where anything's possible. When I really think about it, I can only say that this community of characters reminds me of the schoolboys on that island in Lord of the Flies. Is that just me? The character I fnd to be the most intriguing is Spencer. I want to know why he just stays there in hell and not escape? Suicide isn't an option, so why doesn't he drop school, or simply run away. Even the mean streets wouldn't be worse than being a caged up target, -at least he'd have more room to dodge the attacks. So what motivates him to stay? Is he a hapless optimist, or masochist, or what? What is it that makes him remain in circumstances that force him into brutality. Does he get his strength from making those children happy for just a few minutes a day? I'd really like to know what drives him. I'm glad about the arrival of some new characters that may be balanced (or totally unbalanced) people, since most of the others have lost my interest ...unless some of them die or get thrown into prison, or something really wild happens like the back door of the bus flies open on the conveniently bumpy road and they fall out into...whatever you choose. I'm going to keep on reading because I am truly captivated by your writing.

There's nothing like a first foreign adventure, when you see the novel strangeness of it all. Nice imagery. My big question is why do they still plop you down into Paris via the disappointing Gare du Norde? It really is a shame. Dad had the right idea about getting out of there fast! I look foward to the next chapter.

Amanda, Amanda! The vindictive part of me wants her to have a very 'Carrie' public moment, but really that wouldn't do any good for her badditude or overinflated self image. People like her only learn through really hard knocks. So hit 'er with your best!

This is one of the best and most accurate descriptions of betrayal I've read. You have the full roster of emotions running strong and fast throughout. I felt like I was right in the middle of the storm. Wonderful, fluid writing, the scenes just put you right there, and the logic behind Jordan's reaction couldn't be more sound, -that love without trust isn't enough. It makes me realize that I don't think I'd handle a situation like that with such clarity.

Your fine portrait of a painful life makes me want to back away as it draws me in. I'll keep up with this story, it's too well written to miss.

I like this story, the setting and the characters seem very real. I've never been to Nebraska but the tone makes me feel right there, god forbid!

I just found your story today, and think you're doing a fine job. Jon's reaction to his mother's death is so real and thorough that it doesn't seem like fiction. I love the window tapping and strange movements seen heading to the woods. It could be the bratty kid next door, or a spirit, -or anything for that matter. I look forward to the next chapter.

A fine capture of the 'plausible rogue' in his erratic orbit around the stronger pull of his true love. Thanks for the image of aquatic ferret wrestling, -that's going to bounce around in my head now for a while. Thanks for the great story.

Robovac indeed! I'll need to keep an eye on this story...

Great imagery, I like this tale.

I'm delighted with this story. It's a little bit of magic on it's own. Thank you.