Treading Water

This story had a little bit of everything I enjoy.  There was laughter, and there were tears.  I swore at my screen, and ranted at about selfish characters, but in the end, you gave us the happily ever after I love.  Both characters had their issues, and neither man was perfect, but they were so perfect for each other.  It just took them longer than the rest of us to figure it out.  Although events/people beyond their control kept them apart, I don't think either man would give up the good things they have (like a beautiful daughter, and the bittersweet memory of a loving husband) in order to change the past.  To me, that is what made these men real.  

Once again a perfect Gary story with Great Dialogue and perfect Description and lots of Gary Magic!

I first read this story a few years ago before I was a member.  I read all of Gary's stories when I found Cards on the Table and Morningstar Malaise , this really stuck with me as a pick-me-up feel-good story.  I highly suggest it for a quick binge read of a well written story that will take you to a great place, regardless of what's going on in the real world.

Browsing and saw the review for this story from one of my favorite authors on this site, so thought I would give it a chance; so glad that I did.  Read it in one sitting; and it truly flows well enough to do so.

The main characters a so well drawn and you are immediately drawn to them.  Some of the secondary characters are not as fleshed out but that did nothing to impede my enjoyment reading this story.  The writing and plotting were both first rate as is everything that I have read from Headstall.  

The story is fiction and truly well written and constructed; but not sure that I could see it playing out quite like this in reality, but what a wonderful world it would be if it could.  The idea that family is truly who you choose to make it; just permeates this whole story.  We see that actual family can do everything they can to make you miserable but that only happens in you decide to let them.  Don't want to say too much; don't want to give anything away.

Get a nice cup of tea; and get ready to spend a little enjoyable time getting to know Craig and Jared; you will love them as much as I do.

I had read this story a few years ago and I loved it. However, the story stuck, every now and then I thought back to it without remembering many details. I'm glad to have read it again! Despite the fierce beginnings, it's a real feel good story. 

What an AMAZING story! So enjoyed reading and feeling the emotions Jared and Craig were experiencing during it. Thank you so much for a real life, realistic, happy ever after love story! ❤️ Definitely a recommended read.

This is my second time reading this story.  I had a rather rough week so I needed some binge reading to help me center myself and I turned to Headstall's "Treading Water" !  It is an an amazing story that speaks to very real circumstances not unfamiliar to me!  His writing is excellent and character development is superb.  Plus, I'm a succor for the HEA!!!  I highly recommend this as well as Gary's other stories.. You'll not be disappointed! 

Another 'right-on' story by this author built with tenderness and insight.  The story is engrossing leading the reader from chapter to chapter sometimes with pain and others with hopefulness. Super read!

Once again we get to experience just about ever emotion possible, but thankfully the sweet, gooey ones came out on top.  So if you are looking for a sweet, loving story (with a few detours so you don’t hit saccharinly sweet), this is perfect for you. 

This story showcases sibling rivalry at it’s worse. At least the one-sided kind of rivalry. Carly is a…umm, let’s just say she isn’t a nice woman and leave it at that.

Craig and Jared make a great couple and work together to overcome any obstacles put in their way. I like how they learn to communicate with each other and work through their problems together.

Once Carly’s plans are thwarted, the couple soon settles into being blissfully happy with each other.

This is truly a great love story about two best friends who were denied the opportunity to declare their love in high school by the manipulations of a jealous, self-centred sibling.  Their struggle to overcome tragedy and help each other is a tender and heartwarming story of triumph.  Headstall is a gifted writer that has an amazing ability to envelope readers in the feelings of the characters and create an environment so realistic you feel you are there with them.  This is a great story to read to get a feel for this author.  Once he has touched your soul, you will want to read more.   

Wonderful, engaging story! You are a fantastic author. I’m late to finding your stories, but so glad I did. 

In the most of @Headstall stories, a catalyst for the plot and misunderstanding between main characters has been in themselves. It has been some disappointment or painful event from the past which determined their life, attitude and behaving. In this story, it has been selfish and cunning sibling, setting traps and plotting to separate two guys, that has been determined to take something (someone to be precise) which doesn’t belong to her.

The fatal kiss between Craig and Jared initiates the start of communication and dialogue (in wonderful @Headstall style) which leads to discovering the true and revelation. Is it possible to move on together after so many years living in a dark and deception? With such communicational skills provided by author, future for protagonists looks bright and happy. It is characteristic for @Headstall that there are no completely evil antagonists in the story as in fairytales. He describes his characters realistically, with all virtues and flaws as humans are. So, even evil sister gets some pity from the author at the end.

Every review posted here will let you know this is an epic love story. They are correct, it really is. Read this. Seriously.

I am awed by the emphasis on communication. You’ll meet the two central characters as they learn to communicate with each other. Communication is just so key to their healthy relationship and the healing they both need. The happiness they both deserve.

 I’m posting this review one year and one day after I finished my first reading. I’ll come back again for the comfort, the uncomfortable, the unconditional acceptance that is in here.

Read this. Seriously.

Don't go reading this story thinking it is about boats or life on the water because it isn't. The title, and this is repeated in the chapter titles, is a metaphor. Our main characters, Craig and Jared, have experienced life-changing, shattering experiences that have left their lives in limbo, almost like treading water, hence the metaphorical title. In this glimpse into their lives, you will experience anger, sadness and joy all natural emotions for most of us to experience. Read this and follow them on their journey of discovery, bonding and healing that sets them on a better path to a future with love and hope. I will give two warnings: 1) Keep the tissues handy, and 2) This story does not have the traditional HEA, but better than that it has the promise of one and will leave you wanting more. Read, be entertained and enjoy, I did, and I promise you will not be disappointed.