ColumbusGuy

Dang, Val...you know how to impact your readers. I was mad at Ray for not seeming as committed as Nate, but I could understand his wanting a little of his time...then he says 'I've met someone.' No. After ten years you talk it out, forcing the other partner to listen if you have to--he doesn't seem to care about getting a house together, and if he just goes 'shopping' for a new friend, then he's not as committed as Nate. Saying Nate's priorites have changed is a low blow--Nate has widened them to include Jonathan, not replaced Ray with him...Ray is the one who seems to be looking for something else. He's playing the victim nicely, but I'm not buying it now--maybe at first but it seems awfully easy for him to walk away after ten years. I hope this works out for them, but Nate needs to make time for both Ray and Jonathan--and Ray doesn't seem to make any adjustments himself. Only one more? Come on, Val--don't do that to us!

Of course, Gary beats me to it...and says everything I would. That's my boy! I won't say I'm thawing toward Nathan, but I've got an open mind now...a bit more so than it was before reading. I do hope he can mend his ways.

God, Ron...I've never felt such an impact from such a short piece of fiction. It usually takes an author longer to make me want to cry...now I have to check out the rest of your work, and I know it's going to be a challenge emotionally if it's like this. I'm not speechless, but man am I choked up.

Gary, Gary, Gary...you have nothing to be sorry for! You've done what a good writer does: portrayed Life in all its Glory and Infamy...we can hope for one outcome, but it isn't an iron-clad guarantee we get at he start of our lives. You are grounded and honest and caring--never alter those quialities to fit some other person's idea of you. Your readers are going to fret and agonize, but it is out of the quality you give them which can draw such emotions. Tell the story as you see it, no one else can do it your way. Only if you lose that will you need bodyguards. You have shown us such Passion and Honesty and Respect that we can only give you a feeble reflection of the same. You have been my beta for such a short time, and yet, I can't imagine what my writing and life would be like without your guidance. Few people earn my highest praise, one was the teacher for my second attempt at First Grade, who saw that I was havnig problems seeing the work on the boards, and took the effort to help me whereas the first teacher didn't, and I didn't know better than to keep quiet. She instilled in me my life-long love of reading and writing and regard for others...you have brought renewed vior to those endeavors. B.G. and A.G.--that's my division of my writing, so--take us where you will, as you will--I trust you.

Mark, I was not attacking your person, just the inconsistency of the player's actions with those they exhibited in the past--and those players are Will, Wade, JJ--not M.E or Elizabeth or Alex-for they are being horribly consistent. I consider you to be a great writer, as I've said often in reviews--this forest fire is proof of the high amount of feelings you can create with your work. I'm sorry if you view this as personal when it is not, and I will delete the posts if you ask. Otherwise, I'm done here--the rest of you may vilify at your pleasure. I retreat from the field on the moral high ground of being honest to my beliefs and not sinking to personal attacks.

A sad difference what twenty years can make in a culture....nice to see that people no longer have respect for others, but also lost any respect for themselves. And by the way, I said the chapter was hypocritical from the viewpoint of it's characters previous beliefs, not that Mark was a hypocrite. And my manners don't allow me to make ad hominem attacks about others morality...I'm not a Christian, but my moral beliefs are firm and unwavering in respect for others beliefs. As Hippocrates said: Do No Harm...no exceptions, no qualifications to that statement. What higher principle can there be? That includes harm to yourself as well as others, by the way. And, I had all the drives of a 16 year old back then, but I also had respect for others and myself.

Just finished your latest...gotta think about it before I review it though. Nothing bad at all--just, well, inside me the voices are crying 'NO! You belong to Michael!' Also, a smaller voice is saying 'You can't have Michael, Chet is a great guy...' Another voice is whispering, trying to decide if if should be heard 'Don't be an idiot--you fucked up with this deal--wait for Michael--he has always been the One.' Just to let you know: I hate you. A great chapter which tears me apart with frustrated emotion...which is a good thing for an author to do, and you are keeping it real.

Kitt and Method, I apologize for the way I stated my comments above--I can only say that they were not personal attacks, just of the opinion, and I could have said it better...but I have to say that the way Mark has planned this out does indeed make me ill, that was not exaggeration. I care so much for the characters he has portrayed that I see this as being insensitive to their natures...I have pretty much read this story straight through for nine months or so until I was caught up, so the characters, took on a life of their own as they should in good writing. I can't know what Mark's long-term vision for these guys is, no one but he can do that--but it IS my opinion that within these many books of CAP, he does appear to have betrayed the characters involved in this plot device...and that is what galls me the most. His work has always been well-written and worked on both the physical, psychological and logical levels...but this one is seriously out of kilter with the demonstrated actions of the players involved. I am not going to say that Mark can make no errors because I think he has here...that is my opinion, and it seems many readers agree with me, he is human and so am I, and I let my high emotion get carried away when I said that about your and method's opinion--again, I'm very sorry for that...you are both nice people and helpful to others, and I regret the words, but they can't be taken back, though I can alter them in the post...you have your right to the opinion you hold, as do I, even if mine could have been stated better. But the fact remains, the 'need to marry' argument doesn't hold water because it could have been done in other ways, with a proper matrimonial prospect of better character than M.E. Danfield, and Wade has lost moral ground with this decision--turning into his father slowly but surely as time goes on. And while JJ might be bisexual, and Alex isn't long term, no young man would sleep with a woman however 'hot' when he knows her character--and the fact that Alex has proposed this just highlights the fact that he really isn't concerned with JJ's feelings at all. My deepest apologies for what seemed a personal attack.

Sorry method and Kitt, but that is, in plain English, BS...don't play the need to marry card in relation to the scheming bitch Mary Ellen is--he has the title to tell her to fuck off and find a real woman worthy of the title as his wife...and the money might have come from somewhere else in time--so no--Alex is and always will be an unprincipled scumbag, and trying to fit JJ into a loveless and mercenary niche in Alex' twisted fantasy is just wrong. Rationalize however you wish--Mark has betrayed both his characters, his readers, and his honor as a writer of merit with this ploy. As Tim said, I'm going to try reading around Alex, ME et al., but if it gets to be less rewarding to keep up with Will and Zach, then I'm on hiatus until the next book. Brad and Marc were nice, and I feel sorry for Matt who has proven to be a loyal and loving mate to a man like Wade who is now alas, remarkably like his later Father--an opportunist and moral bankrupt. Guess his money finally persuaded him that he can buy a conscience. It's time for the Schluter clan to untangle themselves from the poisonous Danfield minions of evil and return to California. Goodbye Love, I just bought myself a Title, so fuck all of you peasantry boors.

You know, having read through the entire saga until I was caught up, this is the first time I am thoroughly disgusted with a chapter. This entire situation with the pregnancy is just abhorrent from the way it was plotted by Elizabeth, to Alex' proposing a tripartite relationship. So much for any real feelings he has for JJ--doing this before clearing it with him--AFTER JJ told him he wanted them to be monogamous. Further, Mark has seriously betrayed his own vision of his characters if he thinks JJ would go along with this for even a second, or that Will would tell JJ to go along with it. Thank you Mark for trashing what was a very interesting addition to the CAP saga--I guess the resolution for Zach's problem with his parents has to be balanced by a totally evil mind-fuck elsewhere just to drive the plot. JJ's feelings, mental stability with trust issues--fuck 'em, it's not vital to the story anymore because you want to have another threesome in the story. Sorry, it's nowhere near the same thing--the others had genuine love and affection between the players, not an evil bitch spinning her web to get what she wants. Not only have you betrayed the personalities of JJ and Will, but also of Nana, Wade and anyone else you trot out to support this travesty. I am so glad that I was out of 'likes' when this monument to hypocrisy was posted...I won't bother wasting any more of them on this story...for a while, I'll try reading around the bits with Lord Scumbag and Mary Whore...if that isn't possible, perhaps I'll give up this book altogether and wait for the next one--maybe not since you seem to alter the rules your characters operate by at will. I guess it's easier to alter your characters than to have a consistent view of them...not the sign of the great writer I had hitherto thought you to be. As for Bridgemont--if that story spawned a complete asshole like Alex, then I won't waste my time on it beyond the couple chapters I've already read. Anyone else want to join me in heading for the Exit in search of barf bags?

Thanks Iarwain--this wonderful chapter just saved what was a mediocre day. It started well, but several storis I follow are ending, and one of them has taken a turn I don't feel is credible with the characters involved. This meeting with Yirgella and Mirri put me in a far better mood! I now have to confess that my earlier suspicion is wrong: wondering if any chracters from Attunga could be present here in some form, you said there was one--I thought I knew who it would be with the AI project, but it doesn't seem to be Turaku...at least not yet. Even more anxious to read the next one--and I love how the 'guys' for I count Yirgy as one now, are getting along.

Okay Mark...I have to say this, and it pains me a lot. While this chapter is logical and well-written, I am thoroughly disappointed in it, and your 'solution' has done a great disservice to your characters. I am very unhappy with this chapter, and you've just put a major block in my liking of this book in the story. Since Gary expressed every nuance of my viewpoint, I won't repeat it here. For me, it feels like you've sacrificed something in your characters lives to make a plot device workable. I hope this doesn't pan out as you paint it. I'm in for the long haul, but your reputation has slipped pretty badly at the moment.

Okay, Sasha--you can stop writing stories that make me want to cry. Much as I don't 'get' cross-dressing, the love these two share transcends that reserve. Not knowing the conventions of sheep-raising, it really got me when Clem let Ashlee name the ram and told him he would become the father of a new generation...then Charlie comes with them to their own farm, like he's their own child. Nathan's a bastard and I hate him, but I'll read along to see if you can change my mind. It's going to be a hard-sell for you to try, but I'll be amused by your efforts to make me care about him.

I hate coming in late to reviews, everybody else has covered what I wanted to say, and steals any thunder I might have provided. Even so, there wa nothing out of place in this installment--it was well-crafted, romantic and re-affirming of the bond Evan and Russ have. The inclusion of Jacob and Chris into their bond was just icing on the cake. You mentioned a possible visit to the gym where Mikkel works...I'd love to see that, because I want Russ to learn to dance as a surprise for Jacob...it would further show his desire to become a full part of his life...and build his confidence at the same time. Mostly we are seeing what Jacob has done for Russell, and this would make Russ feel tht he is giving something back beyond his love. I can so easily picture him surprising Jacob with a few dances at their party. This was a truly rewarding chapter for us readers, and for the characters involved...as a seafood-hater, I am disturbed by the abundance of it and the dearth of anything on the plate which has/had legs.

Gary, you did it again...I can feel all the pain Kendall is having, and know why he thinks this is necessary, but for me this chapter is Michael's. Maybe it wasn't intentional, but his desire to ease Kendall's path to freedom just showed me how much their relationship meant to him--before his own concerns, came Kendall's. I kind of resent Kendall's attitude for what Michael is doing, but I also got the point that he couldn't stay mad at him. How long it will take him to realize that what he's doing isn't really needed is a tough question--now that Michael knows what is needed, he will do his best to make Kendall happy, so the complete break isn't needed except in Kendall's mind. I know he thinks it strengthens his quest for a boyfriend, but really, all it is doing is making Michael more obvious--keeping his friendship, but boxing it up in a separate place from his love life would have been the way to go--that way a new prospect wouldn't have to fight the memories of Michael so hard. Anyway, I feel you are more successful at avoiding the chiches of gay romance than me--I try, but you seem to manage it with almost no effort at all--and you've seen how I fret over my chapters. More please, Meister Gary!

I think Jay started working on Miles' confidence early on in art class, being friendly and talkative, wanting to be his friend. How long he's had feelings stronger than that for Miles is hard to say, but I bet it goes back fairly far.When I first thought of the full sex act, I wasn't sure who would be first--but as the story went on--it had to be Jay as the 'underdog'. There was never any doubt for him about being gay--and he sees 'his most precious gift' as the final step for his own development. In his heart, it's Mikey and him, together and equal--so he's doing what feels right to get Mikey to that place in his own heart, an act of love rather than any sort of sacrifice on his part. He knows his chance will come to be in charge, and they will both know when that is. They aren't going to do the usual dominant/submissive game--it's about what their partner needs at the time, in and out of bed they will be one person in two bodies. Rambling...glad you could still find something to say after beta-ing it. I'm sorry, I had to use some exclamation pints in this chapter.

I loved that movie, and that was one of my favorite parts! I think you're confusing uncle Mikkel with brother Jerry? The brother shows up soon for Graduation, maybe there'll be more about him then--as does Mikkel and his Sam. Jerry is very private, but he'll tell Jay things since they are so close...wait and see.I try to make the guys 'live' for the reader, so I put in what seems like what I'd do...and I'm glad it's working. I thought Mikey being accursef of placing a 'sock curse' on Jay was cute too.

Man, you read fast--I must have still been adding the pictue which vanished! Is it wrong to say that I was a bit damp myself--these are my own characters after all. Here's the door thing--yes they forgot, but Dirck would knock--Linda might not have--but then she'd see far more of her brother than she cared to. Next chapter, morning on the farm, then seeing Mikey's mom.

POV: Jay The first thing I noticed was the warmth—a body next to mine, sharing its heat and security; the faint scent of dried sweat and something more basic, the evidence of our love-making last night. I lay there, eyes closed, letting my mind wrap itself around my new reality: I was part of a pair now, no longer just me, and I liked it, though it also scared me; I had never been this close to anyone before—we were like one person in two separate bodies. I wanted to be everything he n

I can't wait to see where they're going--hoping it's a farm like Clem wanted. It can be painful leaving your home for a new one: I've done it twice so far--moving when I was 3 doesn't count since I only remember going to pick up my new puppy. Twenty-six years in the first house--a ranch on one acre, and now I'm starting year twenty-eight in my Edwardian house in town... It's sad to say goodbye to these guys, but you will show us the new place and it will be perfect for them.

Better late than never, or worse, premature. Gotta remember, this is only the third day since they've agreed to date, but their emotions are moving at light-speed. Writing the 'morning after' chapter now....I'm hoping to capture the true nature's of the guys, and not just their sexual sides, so I'm kinda wordy. It's always great to get a review from you!

Okay, Mark, I have to say this: I am disappointed in you with this chapter. The only saving grace I see is that you may be setting up a key situation which is seemingly fore-gone, but then use subtlety to avoid the horrible outcome. The arguments Wade put forth may be true, but they aren't the whole truth, and not the only version of reality that can occur--Centex' points are imminently valid and are more likely to hold with the diplomatic and family situation than Elizabeth's power games. Should you bow to what seems the inevitable and let the Danfield Harpies win, then this book takes on a new title for me Losing Streak. Everything else, from Brad's reaction to Darius' announcement, to JJ's conversation with Alex are fine, but if the marriage of Alex and Mary Ellen goes through, then I feel you have tarnished what has so far been a shining series where Amor does vincet omnia. Restore my faith in your vision--make the plot of Elizabeth and Mary Ellen a failed one! Next chapter please.

I want to use an expletive, but it isn't sufficient to describe the depth of emotion this chapter raised in me. The only bright spot for me was Michael finally seeing Candy in her true colors. I am hopeful that at least now, he knows what love truly is when it's offered...and I think he is just getting an idea that what he feels for Kendall might be the same thing. I don't think it's wise of Kendall to break off all contact with Michael...it won't help with is healing, just mask the torture he will go through. And it isn't fair to Michael because it will take him longer to sort out his own feelings. He may not have considered loving another man, but loving his best friend is a different animal entirely. If there is a chance that he could love Kendall, it is going to take longer now, and put more agony on both of them. Seriously, Gary...I was crying before they even left Kendall's truck...the scene at the apartment just put me away. I don't know if I'm braced enough for the next chapter, but I'll be biting my nails up to my elbows before it's posted.

Holy crap Mark--I knew Mary Ellen was up to something, but this?! And I have no doubt whatsoever that Elizabeth is in it up to her skanky elbows! I have no doubt also, that the family will insist on a paternity test, so that's something...but I think Alex will be obligated to marry her if it is his, despite the fact that noble bastards are nothing to worry about in England. We knew he would have to leave JJ at some point, but not this way. I don't quite get Darius--there was no clue about this on his part...I'd have thought something would show up with how close the brothers are...it just doesn't fit his personality. Okay, the only thing missing now is for Will to set Mary Ellen on fire. Maybe an early chapter so I'm not dying here?

Well...shoot. Gary--now I have another author who can make me cry. All the time I've been bugging you with my chapters to beta, and you had this inside? I was hoping you'd write something since your reviews and comments are always just right, and your first effort pulls my heart to shreds with its intensity! Don't gripe at the exclamation point--it's for you, and well-deserved. I used wordpad when I started and had the same problem...but I also found EXTRA spaces and it too Cia to get me to figure it out I think. Just remember when you put the text in the box, to put in the extra line where you want your paragraphs to be, and that should fix it. You can also put a few spaces in their first lines manually to help set them off--that isn't computerese, but it's what I learned in school. I wish there were more than five stars to rate things here, or I could push the 'like' button until I ran out. Gotta go wipe my eyes and blow my nose. I already knew you were awesome, but you've jumped into the stratosphere with this new aspect of your personality!