Timothy M.

Just to be clear, any use or mention of mouthwash in a positive way in a story, will cause me to leave and not return. This is not a 'threat' as I firmly believe authors can write what they like. It's simply one of the few things which pisses me off so much that I prefer not to read about it, or in any way acknowledge or appreciate a story which subscribes to the idiocy of mouthwash.

I spent most of the story gripped by fear of the worst, anger at the villain, and holding on to a slim hope of deliverance. The two flashbacks brilliantly set the scene for the confrontation. Every part of the (for me) exotic setting and the behavior of the people in this short tale rang true.

@chris191070 I'm glad the Signature Author Special Review led you to this story, even if my recommendation was simply this: A prime example of the hunky bear / shy nerd combination, which is classic Rob Colton, but also a heartwarming love story I return to again and again.

I'm glad Simon finally did something daring and positive. I hope he's made three new friends.

Great interview. I haven't had time to read the story yet, but I'll get there eventually.

1) Perhaps not, but your initial reply dismissing the concerns of readers and saying Will's drug use isn't a problem comes close, in my opinion. And it's especially disappointing to have one of the most sensible characters in the story fall for the stupid idea that it's OK to occasionally use E or coke for recreational purposes. I'd love to hear JP or Wade's opinion on that (nobody else counts, and certainly not Brad). 2) That is a huge assumption, and quite insulting to those of us who have never felt the need to use drugs or get over-the-top drunk in order to have fun at parties. Plus, studies in Denmark have shown many teens feel under pressure to drink etc. from wrong assumption that most of their peers do this, whereas the reality is that only a small percentage frequently indulge in or experiment with alcohol, smoking, sex, or drugs. Your statement is more of the same kind of peer pressure, whether it's true or not. And in Denmark the pressure to drink alcohol continues all your life, which might explain our huge per capita alcohol consumption and the many related health problems. But it's your story and your reality to portray, and you're probably above reproach from the GA admin. So I'll shut up now, since I have the feeling our objections and arguments are more likely to produce the opposite effect.

If Will is going to be a poster model for the idea that it's OK to use hard drugs as long as it doesn't impact your ability to function, then he's no longer someone I can admire. And you might want to consider this quote from GA Guidelines (my highlights): Any stories with these themes are subject to further moderator review and may be rejected: rape or sexual abuse for titillation, glorifying suicide or drug use, bestiality or cannibalism. Containing any content such as drug use, abuse of any kind, incest, suicide, etc… allowed on the site MUST be properly rated, tagged, and include written warnings added to the story and/or chapter notes to warn readers of what will be included in the story so readers sensitive to these subjects will not be unaware of the story or chapter themes.

Sad to read that many wonders of the Realms were destroyed due to the necessary withdrawal of power to protect the High King. I wasn't surprised that the Border was no longer so bad to cross, it was completely logical since the Dead Realm was changing. I loved that Ranevargar was able to distract and defy the bad guy.

Nicki is hilarious but also very caring and clever. She totally managed Simon's mum, so she couldn't embarrass her son too much.

I'm very glad Tyler was rescued and was able to confront Alex and tell him to go to Hell. I hope I checks his phone and sees all the texts and calls from Drake.

I have to admit, I don't like where this story is going. Alex is abusive, and Tyler needs to get out of his clutches. Also, there's something really fishy here. It's one thing for Tyler to be unable to reach Drake and Sean, if Alex messed his phone up. It's quite another for them not to be able to get in touch with Tyler. I'm going to keep reading in the hope that Tyler's common sense will return soon, or the adults who are supposed to be his friends start taking an interest.

Well, I hope Tyler will be able to tell Alex to fuck off.

I hope Tyler comes to his senses and don't let Alex move in. But I suppose he'll have to learn the hard way.

Good riddance to Alex, maybe Sean will get a chance now.

Ugh, surprise birthday party is about the worst idea in the world, and only done by inconsiderate and selfish people in my opinion. The poor victim gets no pleasant anticipation of looking forward to the day, only the feeling of people ignoring him as in this case, just so those organizing the whole thing can feel all smirky about pulling one and getting to see his surprised face. They're lucky Tyler is such a nice guy and decided to believe it was OK and to enjoy the party. But I'm glad he got to tell his dad how awful he behaved and that Alex wanted to give him a great ending to his birthday.

I like Tyler. He's hard-working, sensible, mature and honest. I totally understand why he doesn't want to go see the sperm donor, who never showed an interest in his son. Good for him.

I feel very sorry for Duncan, he's so lost without Brad. It would probably have been easier for his husband, at least with the practical matters, if it had been the other way round. But it's early days yet after his loss, and you're giving us hope for his future.

I was just thinking the same thing. All the weed smoking was bad enough, and now he's started doing coke and E ! Patrick may be fun in bed, but otherwise he's not good for Will.

You weave a complex web, min ven, and we're all trying to find our way through the maze to get the answers. I'm not surprised the Gene enemies are trying to influence other fields of science too. Fortunately, the smart guys have a chance to escape, but only if they have the means, I guess.

Awesome photos, but I'm not sure they live up to GA rules about almost nudity. Maybe if you stuck them in spoiler boxes ?

Simon's musings are understandable and his conclusions and decisions rational. But he wanders in circles and everything is focused on being gay. I still wish he would find some other interests, which could brighten his life.

LOL, I have to admit we're probably all feeling a little exhausted right now. But the nice comments mean it was worth it.

Somehow, that calm statement from Jo to Sue was much more effective than anything else she could have done, including confronting Don. I've very happy someone finally spelled it out in a way not even Don and Sue can ignore.

It was OK, but long. I'll be off to bed soon, and hopefully I'll sleep well. Thankfully, I don't have any plans for the weekend.

Yay, I made it to page 1111 before we're past it. I'll have to leave for work soon. TGIF. Sleep well across the pond, good morning to other Europeans, and G'day to @Bucket1