travlbug

The sabotage is high tech and deliberate, but what is the motive? Did it originate with one of the children, or is there an outside force at work? I admire Alex's competence in dealing with the situation, but the saboteur still needs to be caught. I love the birthday party for Tobi. A little thing, but it provides a semblance of normalcy. I also love the tender moment where Alex tucks Tobi into his bed. Just brotherly feelings, or something more?

Nice to see the shape shifters forgetting their cares for a while and cavorting around in their animal forms. As for Zane: No shape-shifting needed (he's already a pig). While I don't know exactly what transpired when Esthor "killed" Arabella, I'm certain that there's more to it than meets the eye. Perhaps Rulf will be the first to hear the whole story.

Two dream punishment episodes come to mind. The first is Voyager: Ex Post Facto (not exactly a dream, but close enough unless you're picky), and the second is Deep Space Nine: Hard Time (same proviso). And yes, I am a geek! 😁

I'm impressed by how well the children in the fortress respond to the zombie's attack. While Richie, Jeremy, and Mike are now at high risk, I wonder if the zombie is prematurely discounting any threat from these kids while it concentrates on trapping the older boys.

Carter, have you ever thought about not opening the door for Simon? Simon, you're an idiot. But you do make a nice foot rest. (By the way, love the harness. Your fashion sense is impeccable. ) Yes, Carter, the dream is your punishment (I saw that in an episode of Star Trek once.) Carter, are you really talking to your asshole and dick? (Are they good conversationalists?) Curiouser and curiouser! And Aron, do you have any clue yet as to what's going on with Carter and Alex? Why is it that I think you know more than you're letting on?

Do a shopping circuit. Then, do a "shopping" circuit with zombies. Amazing how the zombie factor ratchets up the tension. The mundane becomes excruciating as we wait for the axe to fall. Then, when it does fall, we have a twist, as it falls elsewhere than expected. While science fiction usually asks "what if," Geron has me asking "what's next!"

Why would a parent reject a beautiful child with a beautiful soul just because he's gay? It is truly beyond my understanding. Kudos to all those Edwards in the world who will go out of their way to help a similar child in need. That love results from Edward's kindness makes for a wonderful, poignant story. That Michael wishes to share that love (made possible by a surprise twist) shows how love can transcend the people who engender it. My tissue box is almost empty.

Rory's really got it bad! At least, Milan is not impervious to his charms. However, now that Milan knows that his mom has asked Rory to watch over him in school (he reacts in "horror"), has their relationship been poisoned before it has even started? Rory is asking for trouble with his dad: For him to resist his father's call while discovering his true mate is one thing, but to run out on his father when requested to have a talk is quite another. (Rory's thinking is a bit befuddled at this point, but I have a feeling that Dad will be helping him to sort his priorities. 😅)

To me, this story is about hope even when there seems no hope. Logan had Carson to pull him back from the brink, but I'm sad to think that not every kid in Logan's position has a Carson.

Carter, you have become a hug magnet. Karma's a bitch. Carter, did you just say you're a straight dude just accidentally trapped in a perfect bottom's body? First, are you sure it was an accident? Second, nobody's perfect. (You'll have to practice at being a bottom!) Simon, you're pathetic. You're willing to do anything that Carter wants? (Laundry would be good! 😁) Mark, bad timing, Simon was just finishing lunch.... Mom, please don't cry. Your son is actually doing great! He's turned into a gay guy with a perfect bottom and a hidden talent for sadomasochistic. Oh, that's why you're crying! (Me, too. 😂 )

I'm not sure if the Alpha will be more angry or pleased with either Rory' ability to block him or with Rory's life mate. (Ultimately, Rory stood down [though he did not go home] and, in fact, showed extraordinary mental ability. Further, a life mate is a gift from the moon goddess--depending on your source material--so if the Alpha were to deny Rory's mate, he would be insulting the moon goddess; and I doubt he would be willing to go that far. [Even though Milan is human, that little problem can be dealt with 😏].) I think it telling that Topher, in speaking of the Takedas, says, "They are family now.... No matter the situation, we need to protect them." With Milan Rory's mate, Topher has instantaneously accepted the Takedas as family and has even accepted the responsibility to protect them, and I have the sneaky suspicion that the rest of the pack will feel the same way. Now, the question becomes how Rory and the pack can best approach the Takedas on this issue without driving them screaming into hills!

A classic us-against-them survival story (with zombies). I love that the kids are competent and self reliant, thanks to Jack, who has given them a chance in this new world. The character introductions are well done, and their fortress--a non-treehouse treehouse--is well described and has a character all its own. Through bad luck, the zombie is now aware that live people are in the area, and the kids will have to risk meeting up with it while they prepare for a siege, so the action is set for the next chapter. And the Zombie wins the award for Best Dressed Undead of the Year! More, please. 😊

The shade now has knowledge she means to exploit. This can't be good. I don't trust Prince Terryn. People in power rarely perform altruistic acts without an ulterior motive, and to undertake the hardships of travel to visit the exterior of a crypt (not even attend the funeral) does not make sense to me. (Even if he were sincere, he'd most likely send an ambassador/envoy, so I think he's up to something. ) Esthor a shifter? So late in life? While Lycos shifters are well known, can the same be said of a fairyfly shifter? I'm not sure that Esthor's assumption can be taken at face value, as he is trying to figure out his miraculous escape as well; and being a shifter would not explain how he was seemingly guided to the forest. I'm sure that a piece of the puzzle is still missing. 🤔 Esthor now trusts Rulf with his name. We'll have to wait for any repercussions.... So much going on. Can't wait for the next chapter!

In this chapter, Dom finally sees his life improve: His father has recently agreed to provide Dom with more freedom, and Dom’s excitement is palpable when Vilma shows up to provide him with a ride to the Carlisles for breakfast. Unfortunately, more freedom translates into having to text his father every two hours, but this arrangement is better than being on house arrest. Breakfast takes place in bed–sans food–as Dom and Veikko work out their differences. I love how Dom “missed his friend, even if his friend was the most petulant, inconsiderate little prima donna in the world.“ He gives physical comfort before trying words, snuggling Veikko under the covers and, in doing so, showing how much he truly cares. In a powerfully written scene, they gift each other with truth and raw emotion, and Dom leaves the bed feeling that their friendship remains intact. As Dom rises, he notices Maverick’s drawing tacked onto the wall. I love the contrast between the truth of heartfelt friends and the “lie” imparted by this “sinister” picture. (I also love the way it inserts Maverick into the chapter when he is not physically present, bringing to mind his conversation with Topher and foreshadowing his influence when Dom and Topher see each other later in the day.) While Veikko doesn’t understand why Dom can’t love him as a soul mate, Dom–in thinking of Topher–is crystal clear on this issue: “He [Topher] was kind, thoughtful and so... happy! Veikko, as much as Dom held him dear, was none of those things. Not anymore.” Dom, with his depression, is drawn to the happiness in Topher like a moth to flame. Further, with Veikko, sex comes with guilt, whereas “he wanted to fuck Topher's brains out and not feel sorry about it afterwards.” Excellent timing: Dom tells Topher that Maverick’s a snake in the grass before Topher has a chance to impart Maverick’s message about Veikko. (Even if he got around to giving it, Dom would likely see through it, especially after his visit with Veikko that morning.) That said, Maverick’s great truth (“If you wanna fuck boys just do it”) must be reverberating in Topher’s mind, or at the very least, he is “tired of all these lies”: After confirming that Dom has a crush on him, the preacher’s son finally comes out! After admitting that they both like each other, Dom is in heaven. (I presume that Topher is over the rainbow as well. 😁) And yes, Dom, it really does get better! I love Dom’s smile at the end of the chapter. (I don’t recall if this is the first time in the book he smiles, but if not, I think it’s the first time he really means it. ❤️)

Nick is a resilient young man. Instead of needing therapy for what he went through, and instead of developing a swelled head, he simply wants the shooting event behind him. The love and support he receives from his family and boyfriend are heartwarming. I'm glad to see Noah and Liam sharing a kiss, especially after hearing about their earlier "near miss" in getting together. Obviously, Noah can't get the kiss out of his mind, and his "goofy grin" tells Nick all he needs to know. More, please!

This chapter, of necessity, revolves around Jeremy's pain and loss (the title "Heartbreak" is apt), and his grief is beautifully portrayed. The reaction of the other main characters to that grief reveals their own inner character, and it brings out the best in them. I read so many stories about dysfunctional families that it's refreshing to see a family where the members truly love, care for, and support one another. Jeremy's loss actually brings them all closer together, and I enjoyed seeing in action the evolution of a loving family.

Kaleo's journey back to Poa is a pilgrimage--a sacred act--and his love for his Pa, as well as his grief, are on prominent display. (For Adam, the pilgrimage is a way for him to show his love for Kaleo by being there and providing support [as if he would have done anything else!].) In stark contrast, the Grahams (any relation to Billy?) live in a bubble of hate. I can't imagine throwing a child away for any reason; and by the time they realize their mistake, it may be too late to undo the damage.

I love that Milan has a good attitude despite his illness. He delights in simple pleasures. He creates art which he shares online. He clearly loves his family, and they love and support him in turn. 😊 I love that both mother and brother dance for Milan. They share joy instead of becoming mired in sadness over Milan's condition. Ah, a wolf has made its appearance, staying just long enough to tantalize. Perhaps we'll see from its point of view in the next chapter.

Who turned Esthor into a fairyfly? If another mage had done the deed, he could have put Esthor in a jar and carried him off that way. For a blind little fly to be flying blind sounds extremely hazardous--a desperate action of last resort--which makes the transformation and escape sound instinctual, more like Esthor has done it himself. That said, "...the tiny insect kept flying in one direction, as if it knew exactly where it was going." This line suggests that Esthor is being guided (especially because he is blind), but it would take a powerful being indeed who could work such magic over long distances. So who is actually pulling the strings? (Why, ObicanDecko, of course! 😊) The princess is truly dead? 😢 Maybe Esthor stored her consciousness somewhere and intends on finding her an uninfected body? (Yes, I am SO grasping at straws!) Khalgos is an experienced and "prudent" wizard: While he's too late to help Esthor, I wonder what else he may find at the castle. Rulf seems a truly good soul. I don't think we have to worry about Esthor while he remains in Rulf's care--even if Rulf finds out his guest's true identity.

I know that this won't be a popular view, but I thought Kohen was better than that: He purposely inflicts torture severe enough to kill, and he does it, not for personal revenge (which I could at least understand), but because Elliard has caused the Captain emotional distress. The mission may depend on Elliard's paralysis but certainly not his torture, and we learn that there are consequences for Kohen's action: If the paralytic wears off too soon, Elliard's screaming can give them away, and Elliard may die of stroke if he doesn't get the antidote soon enough, depriving the crew of their prize. The Captain is paralyzed without the toxin, showing the depth of his love for Kohen. (Now that's a paralysis I can understand. 😊)

I love the frontispiece illustration! The concept of suicide as an addiction is fascinating. Interesting that Tyson is open enough to tell Dr. Cane that he will continue to attempt suicide but is secretive enough to refuse to divulge his plan. (His openness is a sham, however, as he knows she wouldn't believe any other response.) Further, while he says to Dr. Crane , "I'm not like... emotional or anxious or stuff," this statement is false: He has already shown aggressive or violent anger, or he wouldn't have spent time in the "quiet room." However, his hospitalization is voluntary, so he has enough insight to want help (or at least accept it when offered). Importantly, Tyson feels like a failure: His parents "expected so much of him, and he was failing them." While most kids under pressure from their parents would not turn suicidal, I do not feel that parental influence should be completely discounted (while not quite the same, consider episodes of school bullying which have driven kids to suicide; and here, the parents are referring to Tyson as "useless, retarded, and pathetic. Weak, and stupid"). Dr. Cane--Cynthia--has gone on record saying "these things can happen, nobody was to blame, and that the brain could be 'a fickle bitch of a thing...'"; and while I agree that the root cause of depression is likely organic--a neurotransmitter issue requiring SSRI antidepressants--a little family therapy wouldn't hurt. (In fact, in this case, I'd say that it's mandatory.) Every 20 minute suicide checks--just part of the price for having attempted suicide. (Such a patient would likely be afforded no privacy--not even in a bathroom--until the staff were satisfied that he is no longer at acute risk.) Tyson's observation (despite his expectations) that most of the kids in the unit look normal is consistent with the reality that one can't necessarily tell if someone has mental illness merely based on their looks or surface behaviors. Vladimir is an interesting character: His trance-like whispering may suggest schizophrenia, and his recent stay in the high dependence area indicates recent high risk behavior. However, he is receptive to Tyson, and their hand-holding/stroking shows that he's most likely gay (and he's beautiful!). That "Vlady" makes Tyson happy is actually good news, as a severely depressed person wouldn't care. And Charlie just makes me feel sad. Can't wait to read chapter 2, and I'm in luck, as I see it was just published! 😊

Keep your friends close and you enemies closer: What better way to throw Rory and Milan together than by making Milan Rory's assignment? I love the mystery behind how the Takedas were able to move into town. (If Dr. Ilaria is aware of the werewolves, she could be trying to research how their healing ability could be applied to Milan.)

The bunker is an amazingly elaborate structure, and I can't wait to see how the kids utilize its resources. However, I have to wonder if the bio labs, as well as the airborne bio agent detected by DAISY, were introduced in the same chapter for a reason. Also in this chapter, Amanda continues to show attitude, but Tom becomes enthusiastic about the mech bay, and even Larry contributes to the planning. Perhaps the group will truly become a cohesive whole. Poor Tobi: Alex finally tells him that he does not consider him a love interest, and Tobi has himself a good cry. At least Alex is honest, and the characters are free to pursue other romantic partners. There are only 20 kids in the bunker, and Izzy has found something "weird": A "lot" of clothes tailored to children 5-18. Why so much extra clothing and specifically for this age group? Alex has brought up rescue missions: Did the adults who provided the stores expect the survivors outside the bunker to be children?

Drew honors his promise to Aria and extends his protection to Amara as well: On arriving back at the residence, he refuses to leave Amara in Ben's care and literally guards both brothers through most of the night. Drew has now been able to differentiate between the twins a third time--all Amara has to do is open his mouth. 😁 Extraordinary revelations about mom in particular and her wish for girls instead of boys. However, can the twins be believed? If so, is there more to the story than the twins are telling? (I would presume that Drew will try to verify their story before accepting it as gospel.) And the twins have yet to answer Drew's question: Why do they change places to have sex? He is on the verge of becoming a confidant of the twins, but he is not quite there yet.

As always, I love the banter between the characters (the "bong" scene is priceless). Adam renews his vow of support for Dizzy, and he can relate somewhat to Dizzy's dilemma, but in fact, their situations are not the same: Adam left home rejected by his parents, and without a safety net, to move thousands of miles away to make his own destiny; and Dizzy, while abused, has an immediate safe haven, with a mother who is sorry for what has transpired and who actually still loves him. Hopefully, Dizzy's issues can be sorted out relatively quickly, but even if they're not, he will have a good home. While Adam is right--as far as he is aware--about Artie's custody arrangements, I remain concerned that a shyster lawyer will find a loophole or try to ruin Adam's reputation in order for the grandmonsters to obtain custody. That said, I love Adam's nuclear option--just inform them that Artie's gay, and that'll take care of that! (Maybe....)