rate_review Reviews

I tried to review this once or twice before, but I couldn't find the words for how absolutely awesome these characters are and how truly brilliant the story is. I could read about Turkish and James forever, but I think "Art Criticism" ended on a fantastic note and I was even happier after the last snapshot (no pun intended) from Yusef's perspective. I loved the discussion of art because, even though I don't know much about it myself, the passion they both felt really came through and it definitely inspired more interest; their relationships with their family and friends were really touching, even (maybe especially?) because they weren't perfect; and I loved watching both James and Yusef grow and develop into the incredible characters that they are. I don't think I've even mentioned half the things I adored about "Art Criticism", but, as I probably shouldn't sploodge all over your review page, I'd just like to thank you for an incredible story. I look forward to reading more an I'll try not to be quite so comment-shy in future, so I don't have to try and get it out in one go xD.

I decided to comment a second time, even if it's bad form to do so, because my first review isn't complete. This one isn't, either, but I realized I hadn't mentioned how hot the sex scenes are or how much I love James's initial reaction to Turkish. It's rare to find fic where one character holds the other in such intense and such genuine contempt, so it was a unique twist and, in my opinion, it only made their romance that much more compelling. You have a real gift.

I just read this from start to finish because I couldn't stop once I started. The pace is perfect and your character development is remarkable. This was also superbly written and I love how the story flowed perfectly for both James and Turkish. It's super sweet and romantic.

Chapter 23 - Whoa. How did this happen? I leave aff for a few weeks and my current favorite writer has completed one of my favorite stories. That never happens. You should be ashamed of yourself. Updating is bad.

In my last review I mentioned how I hated Turkish and then I didn't etc etc. But seriously. Reading those chapters I missed, I have come to a conclusion, Turkish is so goddamn adorable it is fucking terrifying. I love him so much now. I can't even properly enjoy sex scenes because I'm too busy SWOONING over Turkish. After every thought I add ',man' to it now. Turkish has infected me and the only cure is more adorable. (and more updates of your other equally amazing stories)

That was a lie. Well, just the sex scene part. They were hot. Really hot. This isn't insulting or anything but your sex scenes are, surprisingly, extremely hot. Which is rare. Because writers that have amazing characterization don't normally have fap-worthy sex scenes. So you are amazing and I love you and I want to have sex with your writing abilities and give birth to your plot bunnies.

I don't want to leave James out but I don't really have anything to say about him. He's a loveable fuck up which is is far too close to home for me. The fuck up part, though. Not the loveable part. Never that.

I forgot what else I was going to say. I get like this when I have a mad crush on someone. Soon I'll start stuttering and blushing. W-well I'm just going to have to end this review here.

Th-thank you for an amazing story.

nooooo!!! i feel like i just lost a friend. i dont know what im going to do without james and turkish. =) really fantastic story. thank you so much!

Awesome story, thank so much! And the bit at the end from Yusef's point-of-view was the perfect epilogue. I've got all kinds of warm fuzzies going on.

I really enjoyed this story very much. Keep up the great work. :)
Rae

This story is such an accomplishment. It is so accurate to that insecure stage in life, where adulthood doesn't just happen, even though you've done all the right things. I really enjoyed watching James push through it and mature. I can never get enough of these stories when they're done well.

I agree fully with Yusef when he said:
"You can only be James—just you, and you told the truth about who that is, man. Don't feel guilty about that, ever. You're here in San Francisco, living your life how you need to, and that makes you brave. That makes you amazing."

I also really enjoyed the immersion in Jame's art sensibilities. It was informing, not only in terms of photography. It also informed readers that yes, James would be effective and decisive in his personal life, he just needed to tap the confidence he had in his art perspectives.

I really liked the supporting charactors. Jame's friends and his conversations with them felt totally natural, warm, homey, and their respect for him, and his respect for them, was convincing.

The best thing was the truthfulness of Jame's and Yusef's relationship. They remained themselves, with their differences intact; they weren't profoundly remade by each other. Too often people seem to think that's the point of a relationship! Great to read a story by an author with a more discerning eye, who looks at how the simple exchanges (of ideas and support) lead to greater happiness.

I'm so happy James went to grad school!

Hottest scene was the shower frottage, by the way. Love the description of how being rocked by Yusef's thrusts felt to James, and how having their hands together made him come. And I'm a sucker for slippery rubbing and messiness that isn't neatly contained in a condom. Guess James is too!

All your stories rock, just so you know.

I know that I don't comment often, but that's not always easy, when a story is being told well, it feels right to wait.

I loved the ending of this... It was so sweet... I love how those two act with each other. Congrats on finishing your story. Now let's see if I can finish one of mine as well. To the author panel!! x3

LOVE. amazing story. the end

The Best!!!!! This was one of the best stories I've read here. I don't comment very often and I had to let you know how much I've enjoyed this story.
The ending made me all warm and fuzzy inside. That's the kind of love and acceptance we all want in our lives.
Thank you!!!!