Reviewer: vic32 (Signed) · Date: October 25, 2016 09:57 AM · On: What is a Real Family?
Oh Justin talk to Brian, he may surprise you and this is something he might want as well. Gosh I can't imagine the pain of what Justin is feeling over what his dad did that's all kinds of wrong he did.
Reviewer: Taylor (Anonymous) · Date: July 10, 2012 06:31 PM · On: What is a Real Family?
Taylor here again. Had to leave another review. This is so much fun, I must say. Read, review and have feed back from your review. Lovely concept. This story is very interesting as to the way things are worded and described. I really like the comraderie among the four leading men. It leads one to believe the duos are cut from the same cloth. I makes one wonder, tho, how Justin is such a nice man considering his father's on-going repulsion of him. I truly hope he and Justin have a set-to and Justin wins. What is the significance of the blue ribbon for this story? Do the readers have a say in it's being here? I f that is true your fan base truly admires and cares deeply for your stories. The more I read on this site the more I am enjoying it. I guess I am really naive in a way. Will be going home for a few days as me mum's missing me so have to show my face. She's gotten me and my friend there tickets to the Queen concert in London on Saturday next. Cheerio for now.
Author's Response: Hi, Taylor! Thank you so much for your comments, my friend! That means a lot to me whenever readers take the time to let me know that they are enjoying my stories.:) I'm assuming you have already read the prequel (forgive me for not remembering if you mentioned it before). It doesn't have to be read to understand this one, but it does provide a lot of the back story for this sequel.:)
As far as Justin winding up with the character traits that he has, the only thing I can think of is that he took after his mother. I find it hard to believe that Craig wasn't this driven, ambitious, harsh, and judgmental person from the beginning, even before he found out about Justin's sexuality. He didn't just become that overnight, although I think he did care about his children perhaps when they were a lot younger, which I alluded to in previous chapters when Justin was doing some reminiscing about his childhood. I think you will be satisfied with how Justin handles this latest revelation. I feel it's important that HE be the one to conduct this battle and confront his father, sort of like closing a painful chapter in his life. Sad, but I don't see any other outcome in this case, unfortunately.
And the similarities between the two couples are intentional; obviously it's not a stretch to think that Fin and Brian would be a lot alike, but I also wanted Tony and Justin to forge a friendship. I think with two very strong men as their partners, they NEED that comaraderie.
You asked about the blue ribbons - probably the best way to answer that is to quote the actual description from the website - it's under the categories section:
Blue Ribbon Award required. All fan fictions will be in this category if featured until we have more different kinds of stories. Only an Administrator can award featured status to a story. Featured status is based on very good writing, imagination, grammar and spelling, readers' response, and sometimes we will reward an author that is making very significant improvement and we want to motivate them to keep going because we see real promise in their work. Only completed stories will be awarded featured status. A few are still not finished and they are allowed to keep their ribbons with timely updates.
So while readers can't actually award the ribbons, I DO know that both comments received as well as suggestions for a nominee are taken into consideration. I have emailed the admins from time to time myself when I felt that someone's story is worth a look for a possible ribbon; sometimes they agree and sometimes they don't. But I do know they are excellent at both listening to your opinion and following through on issues if any arise. That is what makes this site so phenomenal IMO.
Again, thank you for the wonderful feedback, Taylor! I hope I can continue to provide you with stories that you enjoy. And I hope you have a safe and wonderful time in London! Take care. *Hugs*
~Kim
Reviewer: Bekka (Anonymous) · Date: July 10, 2012 09:03 AM · On: What is a Real Family?
Hello, I want to comment on this story. I have read several of your stories on this site. I am becoming a fan of the way these stories bob and weave and leave me wanting the chapters to run longer. I was such a fan of QAF when it was on t.v. I had to go buy the whole five seasons and watch it a lot. I find the stories here somewhat conclusive with twists. I really wasn't happy when it ended and the way it ended, so these stories sate my thirst for more. I have been quite remiss in reviewing your stories as I wasn't exactly how to compose one. I must admit I have read quite a few to see how your readers review. You seem to have a lot of them and are quite great friends with them.. I guess that is a mark of a great writer. I rad the prequel to this story and it fanned my curiosity for this one. Hope I didn't scew up this review too much. Bekka
Author's Response: Hi, Bekka! Thank you for your lovely comments; and don't ever worry about leaving me your thoughts.:) I'm just grateful that you did.:) I know what you mean about my 'conversations' sometimes with my readers - sometimes they're almost like full-length novels themselves - ha! I really appreciate you taking the time to tell me that you've been enjoying my stories. Sometimes I will write one that is mainly fluff (usually a one-fic), but I do try to normally have a storyline to go along with it. That, and the length of each chapter, is usually why it takes me a little longer than some other authors to update I suppose. I hope you will bear with me and consider it worth waiting for.:) I am anal about finishing each story that I start, so please be assured that I will continue to do so - AND update each WIP regularly.:)
This story still has a ways to go before it's heading toward a conclusion as you may have surmised. I hope you will continue to enjoy it, along with some of my other stories. Thank you again for taking the time to leave me your thoughts. I derive a great deal of pleasure out of receiving feedback and it so encouraging to me. I hope to hear from you again in the future.:) *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: NONIE (Anonymous) · Date: July 10, 2012 08:50 AM · On: What is a Real Family?
HI! I'M HERE AGAIN. I JUST WANT TO SAY I LOVE KATHY AND SEAN. SUCH A WONDERFULLY SWEET FUNNY COUPLE. I HOPE JUSTIN DISCUSSES THE BABY ISSUE SOON. I THINK THEY,(TOGETHER) WOULD BE GREAT PARENTS TO THEIR OWN CHILD. JUSTIN LOVES GUS LIKE HIS OWN SO HAVING ANOTHER CHILD WOULD BE AN ADDED CEMENTING OF THEIR RELATIONSHIP. GUESS THAT'S A LITTLE CORNY , BUT THAT'S ME ROMANTIC AND CORNY. THIS FALL-OUT BETWEEN JUSTIN AND HIS FATHER IS GOING TO BE DOWN AND DIRTY AND UNFORGIVING I THINK. THIS WAS A VERY ABSORBING CHAPTER. TA!
Author's Response: Hi, Nonie, Sweetheart! So great to know that you're still reading along.:) I'm trying to focus a little more right now on the family aspect of the plot, while interweaving the political story into it as well, because my motivation at the beginning was to concentrate on Fin and Brian's changing relationship since they first met. Of course, as you know there's a lot of other issues going on here as well, including Justin and Craig's relationship and the 'baby' issue. Add in Alex and Fin and Tony's relationship to the mix, and you have several elements I will need to wrap up before it's all said and done.
Yes, I fear that the next meeting between Justin and Craig will NOT be a happy one - there's no way that it could be. As often happens in real life, though, sometimes your closest 'family' isn't always your biological one, and Justin will continue to need their love and support coming up.
Thank you so much for your ongoing encouragement, Nonie! I appreciate that so much. I will get this story updated again very soon.:) *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: DavidR (Signed) · Date: July 09, 2012 09:26 AM · On: What is a Real Family?
That was really rotten of Craig. I know he can’t accept Justin and
he certainly won’t accept Finn. Contributing to Finn’s opponent is his
legal right, and on the surface is seems ok. But it is not. Given his
son’s connection to Finn, Craig simply could have expressed his view
in the privacy of the voting booth. This was an aggressive act on his
part. Unless there is something we don’t know, this is a slap at
Justin. To us readers, this is no real surprise at many chapters ago,
there was a meeting between Stockwell, Craig, and I am not sure
who the third person was, maybe Turner.
Thanks for the chapter. There is so much more going on, but I
just wanted to leave this brief comment.
DavidR
Author's Response: Hi, David! I always look forward to your comments, my friend.:) Thank you for being so faithful with reading and reviewing for me.:) You've pretty much summed up Craig well in this chapter. He had to know that his actions would be publicly accessible under the disclosure standards, and obviously he didn't care whether his involvement was revealed or not. In fact, he probably would welcome it as a big "f-u" to both his son and Brian. There will definitely be a confrontation taking place between him and his son coming up - Justin is going to be quite upset about this and will not take it lying down. While hurt, he will need to hash it out with him and engage in his own battle, not have others do it for him. He will get further assurance, though, that his 'real' family has his back.:)
Thanks again for your ongoing support, David, I really appreciate that! *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: lindc (Anonymous) · Date: July 09, 2012 12:49 AM · On: What is a Real Family?
Just wondering if you would do me a little favor and go on line to adam lambert at the kirby center in wilkes barre to view songs from his new cd trespassing and give me a review. i would be interested to see what you think. lol
Author's Response: So I'm reviewing now, too? LOL! I'll take a look as soon as I can catch a breather - I'm doing some beta work right now for another author - but I'll check it out and let you know.:) I really wish I had a private email for you, my friend! But that's okay - I'll figure out a way to include it somewhere else.") *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: lindc (Anonymous) · Date: July 08, 2012 11:30 PM · On: What is a Real Family?
OMG! read more about the play--Randy plays Jenn's mother--and I have to miss this. Life is just not fair and this sucks. If it was there more than once I might have been able to go--damn. Well at least I can go see Adam soon. His concerts in Europe with Queen were terrefic. Now he goes to London for three then he will be home. That man is amazing and his boyfriend isn't too shabby either. lol
Author's Response: Yeah, I hear the play is a real hoot! And someone said something about him doing ballet moves and coming out in tights? Can't wait to SEE that - ha! I do wish you could meet me there. But there ARE some perks to living out on the west coast, too.:) I'll have to come out there to see GALE in a play and get my last QAF poster autograph from the con.:) I've never seen Adam in concert, but I hear people rave about them - I'll have to check one out if I get a chance! Talk to you later - don't work too hard!! *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: lindc (Anonymous) · Date: July 08, 2012 07:52 PM · On: What is a Real Family?
OMG! OMG! Randy is at the Colonial Aug 20, one night only in a play. Sure, now I'm here-he is there. I am grief stricken. fyi-you probably know already. Nice picture of him at a picnic table-think I've seen that one before--soooo cute. lol
Author's Response: Hm.....I have no idea what you're referring....No, actually I have a confession to make. I not only knew about it, but I already have the ticket and travel arrangements made to go see it...I just couldn't help it - he's like an incurable disease or something - ha! Look at it this way, though - you're out in CA where Gale is - would DIE to see HIM in a play. If he ever does another one, I will have to try my best to come out and see him (hopefully it will be in the summer though). Thanks for the heads up on Randy - I appreciate that. It's supposed to be very funny - can't wait to see it! *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: BROODING BRIAN (Anonymous) · Date: July 08, 2012 06:58 PM · On: What is a Real Family?
WELL IT'S ME AGAIN. I'M THE BUSY "B" NOT MUCH TIME TO DO ANYTHING LATELY. NOW I HAVE A FEW HOURS TO DO MY MUNDANE THINGS LIKE "EAT". AFTER ALL THAT I HAVE SOME TIME TO READ. NEEDED TO KNOW WHAT WAS GOING ON WITH THE CAMPAIGN. LOOKS LIKE EVERYONE IS IN REST MODE. THAT WAS NEEDED AFTER THE NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCE. TOO MANY CRAZIES IN THE WORLD-MORE EVERY DAY. THIS PLACE HAS TOO MANY DRUGGIES, THEREFORE TOO MUCH CRIME. FIN NEEDS TO DWELL ON THE DRUG CRISIS IN THE GOOD OLE U.S. OF A. I DONT KNOW ABOUT THIS BABY BUSINESS, I GUESS ALL WILL BE REVEALED SOMEWHERE DOWN THE ROAD. BY THE WAY, I ENJOYED THE PICTURES. I'M GOING TO GO OVER TO SEE LINDC. SHE WANTS MY ADVICE ON A PLACE SHE IS LOOKING TO RENT-BUY. WE MAY BE TAKING SOMEONE BACK INTO THE FOLD. HOPING! LATER!
Author's Response: Hi, Sweetie - Yes, I heard about Lee. So sorry that things didn't work out, but it would be good for him, I think, if he could be reunited with two of his dearest friends.:) So you've gone from "Brooding" to "Busy" now? LOL! At least you won't have to change the monograms on your towels - ha! I do hope you get a little more down time - you always sound like you are going crazy there, but I'm sure they're taking advantage of a really good thing.:)
I'm honored, therefore, that you took the time out of what must be an extremely hectic schedule to spend your valuable time reading this latest installment. Thank you so much for that; you're very kind as well as supportive and I am very grateful.:)
As far as the story itself goes, yes, I wanted to move it back for a little while to the Pitts to concentrate some more on the back story going on. But rest assured, there will be much more coming up regarding the campaign. And, of course, there are a lot of connections, too, such as Craig's involvement which will be written in more detail coming up. There will definitely be a confrontation between Justin and his father...
Always a treat to hear from you, Brian.:) Hope they give you a little more "R and R" time - you're a very special friend to lindc AND to me....take care until next time. *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: LEE (Anonymous) · Date: July 08, 2012 05:19 PM · On: What is a Real Family?
Hi there! Semes I have been out of the loop lately. So busy with commonality. This chapter was a great relase from all the tension, but it reared it's nasty head again at the end. I knew Craig wouldn't go away peacefully. Poor Justin, it never seems to end for him. I really like the way the four of them get along makes it so much easier when they are fighting for the same cause. The baby issue raises it's head again. Will be very interesting to see what Brian thinks about that. Seems they are a little busy to get fired up about a baby at this point. Maybe Brian will find his notebook with the sketches------huh??? stranger things have happened in your muses head Hee! My life is a liitle angst filled at the present. I am single again--long story. Some day I'll fill yo in. It's still a little raw at the moment. I might just move again to Cal. The peeps want me to come and work with them agin. Don't know yet. Have to get a job again and all that bs. We'll see. luv 2 u.
Author's Response: Hi, Lee! I'm so sorry to hear about you and your fiancee, Sweetheart. I'm sure you're going through a difficult time right now. And while it may sound trite (I don't mean it to be), I do believe that things happen for a reason. We may not understand it at the time, but I do believe that. BTW - if you ever want to email me privately (since everyone can read this), don't ever hesitate to do that. You can click on the 'authors' button at the top of the screen and send me a message that way.:)
I know it would be another big change for you to move to California, but I know that lindc (and I'm sure Brian) both miss you terribly, and it would give you some much-needed moral support, too, so perhaps it's something you should think about. Only you can decide what's best, though.:)
I'm glad you're still enjoying your favorite story.:) And I do like the way that the two couples are bonding with each other; I particularly like the friendship between Justin and Tony - I see a lot of similarities in them (it sounds like I'm reviewing my OWN story here - ha!). As far as Justin's wish for a child, yes, that will factor in pretty significantly in the chapters ahead, but things may not occur in the way that he believes...
I may just have to accelerate my new story for you that I'm writing to cheer you up, Sweetie; I'm trying my best not to post it until I have it completely written, though, but Tricky's about to make a return appearance for summer vacation and I think you could use a little more humor. Hang in there, dear friend; things WILL get better. And any time you want to drop me a private line, I would be happy to hear from you. You're very special to me, you know. *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: Bryton4ever71 (Signed) · Date: July 08, 2012 02:53 PM · On: What is a Real Family?
Way to go building the suspense but I can't believe I didn't figure it out before I did...Only shortly before the end...d'uuuuhhhhh..... I seem to remember them talking too right? Craig and Stockwell or even Turner. I think so anyway.
Author's Response: Yes, you did - but don't feel bad; sometimes I admit I have to go back and check my details, too - ha! Glad to see your thoughts on this one. Let's just say that Justin and his father will be having a not-so--pleasant encounter in the near future.
Thanks for the feedback, my friend.:) I appreciate it.:) *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: Rixa (Signed) · Date: July 08, 2012 10:35 AM · On: What is a Real Family?
If Brian and Justin do end up having a child I hope it’s
Alex rather than a baby. Alex needs
parents and Justin wants a child. It sounds like a win win situation to me.
Also it would continue the adoption theme which is an important part of this
story. You mentioned that there would be some surprises about Alex which makes
me wonder about a few things. I just hope he’s not going to turn out to be
Justin’s long lost biological child (I’m not sure how old Alex is supposed to
be) – that would be too soap opera- ish.
Author's Response: Hi, Rixa! Thanks so much for reading and for your thoughtful comments. No, I can assure you - Alex will NOT be Justin's long-lost child - ha! I hadn't thought of that (thankfully). Nothing quite THAT dramatic as far as surprises go. I deliberately haven't given away a lot of info yet about Alex, including the age, so I hope you'll bear with me until I reveal that and some more information about the character.:)
There's still a lot of loose ends to tie up here; I agree, BTW, with your thoughts about adoption being an important theme in this story, and it will have a bearing later on in the plot.:)
Thank you again for reading and for the feedback! I hope you will continue to enjoy it.:) *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: Megan Rose (Signed) · Date: July 08, 2012 07:01 AM · On: What is a Real Family?
Poor Justin. Of course homophobe-ass Craig would be one of Turner's supporters. Wonder if Justin and Brian will have the baby conversation sooner rather than later. And what about our little waif Alex? Plot thickens...
BTW, I totally want that patio grill/kitchen!
Author's Response: Hi, Megan, my friend! Yeah, me, too - my mom wants one of those, also, to go out on her back porch.:) It seems very 'Brian' to me, doesn't it??
Yes, there is still a lot of subplots in this story to be addressed yet, but I feel like I'm slowly getting there...Justin will be quite hurt as well as angry by this latest chain of events. He still harbored some hope, I think, that somehow things would improve with his father. But I think this wil be the proverbial "nail in the coffin" now...I think he will be first in line to confront his father. Whether it will do any good, though, remains to be seen. And Alex will be making a return appearance soon, don't worry. I haven't forgotten our little guest star...:)
Thanks as always for the comments and for reading, Megan; when things seem on the slow side, I can always count on you for your feedback, my friend, and I greatly appreciate that.:) *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: Marny (Signed) · Date: July 07, 2012 09:18 PM · On: What is a Real Family?
Thanks for the lovely update.
Monday I'm going away for five days with my two girls for a little vacation in the netherlands. Hope to see a lot of updates from you when I'm back!! * grins *
* hugs *
Author's Response: Hi, Marny - thanks for reading, my friend, and for the comments as always.:) I hope you and your girls have a wonderful time! I'll do my best not to disappoint you when you return. I'm working on the side on a return visit from Tricky, BTW, but I don't think I'll post it until I have it finished (for a change - ha!). Have a great - and safe - trip! I'll look forward to hearing from you when you get back.:) *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: Jackie Mag (Signed) · Date: July 07, 2012 10:50 AM · On: What is a Real Family?
I love how Justin yearns for a child of his own. So sweet. And, is it any surprise that Craig Taylor supports the oppostion? What a ... well, anyway.
Good story. Keep it coming.
- Jackie
Author's Response: Thank you, Sweetheart, for reading and for the encouragement! Glad you're still following along on it. And yes, no surprise that Craig is involved on the wrong team once again. I do see a big blowup coming up between father and son - and I'm NOT talking about Fin and Brian here, either.:) Thanks for the comments! I'll be getting this updated again very soon. *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: 4depthoflove (Signed) · Date: July 07, 2012 09:00 AM · On: What is a Real Family?
knew it was coming and yet still wasn't truly prepared - poor Justin - how awful for him - so glad Brian is there to help him through this -
...and BTW - lol - I agree with Jen - keeping things from Brian doesn't end well!
good chapter
Charle
Author's Response: Thanks for the review, Charle. I'm sure that Brian would just love to 'rip Craig a new one' after this, but something tells me that Justin would like that honor instead. I definitely see a showdown coming up very soon.:) And yes, I do think it would be best for Justin to just come clean, but I can also see why he might hesitate right now with everything else going on. Thanks again for all the support, Charle, I appreciate that very much. *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: no sleep (Anonymous) · Date: July 07, 2012 03:48 AM · On: What is a Real Family?
I always love the pictures you include. My husband would die for that grill.
This domesticated Brian (in apron, no less) is just as sexy as the club boy Brian. I love reading about him that way or the Brian on the verge of becoming more monogamous. I re-read “I Don’t” last night so I guess that’s why I’m digressing, LOL. On to this story:
I get excited whenever I see an update for any of your stories. I read this early this morning after getting a drink of water and before going back to bed. I couldn’t wait. Gus was a delight as usual and the Hide and Seek game he played with Justin only reinforced that Justin would make a great father. I know he is one already with Gus, but as Jennifer could see, he longed to have one of his own to raise. I didn’t think about Justin possibly having fears about asking Brian about having more children. I could see that being a very legitimate fear. The conversation Justin had with Jennifer was very enlightening.
I was hoping the conversation with Danny was going to be a little more enlightening, LOL. There has got to be more than Craig being involved in financing Turner’s campaign. I can’t believe you left it there. I kept scrolling down the page thinking it had to be more written but just further down the page.
PLEASE tell me you are updating soon!
SandraJ
Author's Response: Hi, Sandra! You're very sweet with your comments and your ongoing support - thank you for that! I am so honored by your anticipating updates to my stories, and it is very encouraging to me.:)
You know well by now, I'm sure, how I love to include Gus, and I thought this was a cute way for Justin's secret to be revealed to his mother. Plus, I also like to include interaction between mother and son - I adored their relationship on the show and how it deepened as time went on and how she came to accept - and love - Brian. I can still remember that comment she made to him when he gave her liquor to wash down a pill in Season 5: "What, do I look like Judy Garland?" Hilarious!
There WILL be more information Danny will share with Justin in the next chapter, and yes, I know, as usual I left it a horrible spot, didn't I? Sorry about that. But I AM able to update faster right now with me not teaching for a few more weeks, so that should help ensure that I get this updated a little quicker if that's any comfort. As a writer, though, I can't think of a better compliment than the fact that I left you wanting more, even though from your standpoint I can certainly understand the frustration.;)
Thank you again for the wonderful comments, Sandra! Oh, and just an FYI - I hope you like Tricky, because he's about to make a return engagement soon (hint, hint). *Hugs* ~Kim
Reviewer: buttercup32409 (Signed) · Date: July 06, 2012 11:51 PM · On: What is a Real Family?
Poor Justin! This is going to hit him hard, but at least he is surrounded by people who love him. He's going to need all their love and support now. And I have a feeling Craig is going to need some love, support, and possibly surgery or a casket by the time Brian, Jen, Fin and Tony, Deb, and all the rest of Justin's family get through with him. I would not want to be in that slimeball's shoes!
Love the laid back feeling of most of this chapter. They needed some relaxation and family time. And Justin and Gus together was adorable (as usual).
I agree with Jen. As soon as he can, justin needs to tell Brian about wanting a baby. They're going to make wonderful parents (they already do), and any child would be lucky to be part of the Taylor-Kinney family!
Another great chapter! I had no idea when I sent you that email yesterday that this would be posted today! I'll have to email you more often! LOL J/K
Nita
Author's Response: Hi, Nita! Hey, if that can make me move faster, by all means send me MORE messages like that - ha! I AM getting to update just a little quicker, since I'm not teaching at the moment. And since it's supposed to get up to about 102 degrees here today, I'm not too apt to go outside much, either - ugh! Who would have thought that the upper 80's forecast for early next week would sound cool? Anyway, thank you for reading and for the comments, my friend; I really appreciate that. And yes, Justin will definitely be hurt, but I think also more angry than anything else. I think HE may just be on the warpath more than Brian, although Brian will be rising quickly to his boy's defense. Thank you again for all the support! *Hugs* ~Kim
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