Flashpoint

An excellent read about both love and domestic violence, well written, and done with great realism and sensitivity. I recommend taking a little time to check this out. Cassie never disappoints.

Relationships can be life enhancing, or the opposite. Most people desire to share their lives in loving harmony with one special other, but how? What are the priorities? In this well crafted tale that I heartily recommend to all lovers past and future, we learn of the shattering consequences of one partner failing to observe the most basic requirement of a relationship.

Domestic violence is always a difficult topic to deal with, and that's what is one of the focal points of this story.  Grant and Elliot are a gay couple with their own place, and Grant has a sister, Sarah, who has an abusive husband, Jim.  She's left Jim before and always seems to run to Grant for help, but then she always seems to go back with Jim again.  It seems to be happening again, but this time Elliot doesn't want to have any part of it, since she always waltzes in, upsets their lives, and then ends up going back to Jim again.  This time, however, the abuse takes a nasty turn and involves others as well, but you'll have to read this intriguing, although sad story, to find out what happens and who is involved.  The characters have depth and it's an interesting read, so give this well-written short story a try.   

This one's grounded in bitter reality but is well worth reading. Not all relationship troubles can be addressed by the couple alone, and not all feelings can be easily conveyed. Grant and Elliot are an example of moving forward together through dark times, even if extra help is needed. 

I loved/hated this story which was beautifully written but contained so much pain and hurt physically and emotionally.  It was particularly poignant for me as I have volunteered on the domestic abuse  help line for years. I've heard so many awful stories, have had to testify in court about the calls, bad memories. 

For myself there are rules before I even start a relationship, no cheating and no abuse. One hit and that's the end.  I was happy to see the guys sought help.

Excellent story CassieQ!

Don't let the +/- 8,500 word length of this piece intimidate you. CassieQ's story-spinning skill will grab you right away and keep you riveted all the way to the end. It did with me.

Read this; you won't be disappointed!