by Dinsmore
I guess you can go home again -- if you have someone and some place to go to.
Boyd
This is the best story I have ever read on this site. I would enjoy another couple or three chapters with Walt and Kathy.
I check the new story list every day to see if you have posted another great romance. You are great. We love you.
Dinsmore this is another great offering from you!!! The story was well written and well told...keep up the good work as I am waiting for your next submission
Awesome story. Actually brought a tear to my eye a couple of times.
But this was a pretty good story. No it was really good. I was really amazed because very few authors get me to read a romance story all the way through like this. And I have to say I enjoyed it.
Kudos.
-Risq
-Not great, but okay
-Needs another run for grammatical errors
-Would be interesting to see if this writer could break out of their formula storyline
Great story. Have to bookmark your site and read the rest of your stuff.
Thanks,
Rod
I didn't think this one was as good as some of Dinsmore's earlier, but it's still okay.
Here, not only the small town's so awesome and free of prejudices and all that ----------
(Internal/office dialogues: "So you think Poles, Jews, Slavs, Croates, Lithuinians, Romanians, Latvian, Hungarian, et al don't constitute DIVERSITY? Remember, it's too cold for Asians and Blacks, well, the ones close to this place, they are yonder, all being successful and didn't want to come to this small town here, okay?")
----- But,,,,,, all the characters are just so nice to each other:
(1) the two brothers, Dennis (Mary Kathryn's high school sweatheart, though from what she eventually said to Walt, if Walt had stuck it out, be more persistent, she might have gone for him. Or is that "Too"?) and his younger brother, who moved away and came back only after Dennis's unexplained suicide --- both were friends of our hero;
(2) Mary Kathryn, or just KATH,,,, beautiful, very respectable, loyal, hard working, dutiful mother and wife and lover;
(3) and every one else in town, of course,,,, and, of course,
(4) Walt ---- from the poorer side of the tracks, imagining himself never to have been in the same league as Mary Kathryn or Dennis and all the cheerleaders and football heroes in high school. But now he's made it big and, after years of searching for Marty Kathry in OTHER WOMEN (even married one who looked like her, he confessed tearfully and sorrowfully!), he's back,,, not to stay, of course,,, more like just passing through memory lane,,,
But, lo and behold, Mary Kathryn's available, with two teenage children. Poor Dennis, no one was able to understand the man's deep and well hidden suicidal moods.
So, formerly gangly, low-esteemed Walt and forever generous and beatufil Mary Kathry had a chance at happiness, with no less than two children of their own.
But, seriously, to the poster who said he/she wish there's still small towns like this: Yes, there are still a whole bunch of them. If you go to the southern states (Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Gorgia, West Verginia, North and South Carolina's, Arkansas, Tennessee, etc.)
The folks still greet each other by names; have daily apple cider or tea outside in humid, seemingly slow-paced life, with little Mary Kathry and Susie biking safely down the street. No Asians, Blacks, or non-White Hispanics. Well, perhaps one or two families, but they are low-keyed, orderly, hard working Christians, too, and hardly speak at all but are also incredibly nice neighbors. They either stick to themselves mostly or are just as visible at the Chruch gatherings as Mary Kathry and Walt and Dennis et al. from this story,,,
I lived in North Carolina for a year and traveled around half a dozen southern states, going through small, 30 to 2,000 people towns,,,, so I've seen them, known them, to have existed and are likely still thriving these days,,,,
This could be my story. I remember the Eastern European diversity and the lack of it ever being any kind of an issue.
I fell in love with a girl in seventh grade and never thought I was in her league.A friend sent me a reunion photo and at close to sixty she is still a babe. Her husband never killed himself but another guy much like Dennis did, except closer to forty and no one has ever figured out why.
I never made it back to that small town---which was the largest town for thirty miles in any direction; I lived at the very edge of the school district some 20 miles away.
It's still got to be fifty miles from that town to the interstate.
Well Mr. Author / Story Teller, it seems the word is out amongst the readers about your abilities. Nice huh!
I believe that you could write about any subject, but it is very credible that you write of people and circumstance that most of us can relate to and feel good about.
An entertainer of some consequence and following. Thanks!
With Very High Regard
Dinsmore:
It's refreshing to be able to read a great erotic story that's about love and respect. It also shows a way of life that is fast disappearing from the scene. A true feel good tale. Thank You. Ronnie W.
I can't think of anything that hasn't been said already! But I have to say thanks for another great story, you get me every single time. Please keep it up, I love your work.
Touching tale of lovers' reunion, one of my favorite themes, is weakened in this instance by long exposition, wordy dialogue. People just don't talk in such long paragraphs--they would run out of breath :-). All IMO of course. Best, Ken
I am sure that anyone that came from a small towm as I did will somehow bond to this story and wish that it had happened to them.
the story just have all the ingredients of what makes me(IMO) completely happy. this is what fantasy life is all about. very Norman Rockwell like.
great job, author. thank you.
just one hell of a lovely romance story of going home and love...a great read. Thank you for sharing it with us. respectfully fan in Texas naynay
You've been mentioned in the New Story Reviews in the Author's Hangout.
For those of us who grew up in a small town or a farm, this story really resonates. Nice read, Dinsmore.
One of the most entertaining stories I have ever read. I could not stop reading. hope to find more of the same.
'
A story book tale purely entertainment and perfectly enjoyable!!
Very nice story!
<P>
Unfortunately it has few blemishes from spelling errors and misuse of words.
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<I>-- srgeek --</I>
It is hard to top all the superalives stated in the preceeding reviews. Let me add that the mindset of the town was portrayed perfectly. Their caring, generosity, tolerance & concern for all the members of the community is so, so real & true. Country small-town U.S.A. is not a poor try at city sophisication. It has its own beauty, aesthetic, & lifestyle. & that is very much as valuable. I grew up just North of the Eastern North Country, U.S.A. & all the preceeding stated qualities well makes up for the rigorous winters; by many miles. Pity I was raised in a large city just north of these wonderful communities, And cannot profit from their benefits. But one can dream, & perhaps I should hazard a try & relocate.
Dinsmore-San, you are an excellent raconteur, gifted story teller, a superb observer of human nature/bahaviour, & a master author.
Please keep them coming, for me & haundreds of other loyal reader fans. YOU HAVE A GREAT GIFT.
Merci Bien.
Ton Ami,
Daniel.
I really enjoyed this story. Your characters were real with believable dialog. The emotions came through clearly. I was born, raised, and raised my family in the 'big city' and as I read the story, suddenly realized what I missed by not experiencing the 'small town'. Oh well. The vicarious experience was incredible, very moving. I thought that closure on Dennis' death would have been nice, but that's how life is, not everything is nice and tidy and the way we would like it to be. This is a masterful piece of writing, thank you and please keep it up.
After growing up and being away for nearly 50 years, I moved back to the same area where I grew up. Perhaps that's why I enjoyed your story so much. Superb story.
I think you did a good job of describing small town life. The main characters were well-developed and likeable. Thanks for sharing! [Gualterio]
Not enough story. It seemed rushed most of the way through. I liked it, I just wanted more out of it.
Since they were young enough, there should have been another child added to the story. one of their own...added to the two of hers....
they did have kids of their own from what i read... it said one of each sex
well written story altho the unexplainable suicide of the highschool king that basically had everything in life is gonna bug me for atleast the next day or 2.
This was a very moving and wonderful story. It was filled with romance balanced by tragedy. The small town part of the story was nicely done as well. Character development was rich and well done. This is easily one of the best stories I've read on this site. I am now officially a fan! 5 stars!
Maybe a little sicky sweet but a very enjoyable read. Probably as I have never had a home. I becane a transiant at birth and here I am almost 70 and still one. My wife and I want to leave where we are but we have nowhere to go as we have no home. So thank you for this author. A 5 Jim
This one was a beautiful little story and I found it quite touching. Thanks so much for all of the good stories you have submitted. While I have not seen any recent postings, I sincerely hope you will get inspired to write several more for us.
but there was just something missing in this. not sure what it was but something. it was still a good read. would like to see more character development though.
you wrote a nice story but the beginning was a little boring. but other than that it was a wonderful story
The first chapter was great. It was tightly put together and really held my attention. Then to me it seemed to get a bit hazy. But I still enjoyed reading it. Might have been that last bottle of wine I drank.
It was a real feel good story with great salient points. The things that could've would've should've are simple. The story should've been lengthened to include more insight into the principles of the story. Katherine's character should've been expanded to show insights into her psyche at his leaving for college and her arousal romantically towards Walter and comparatively toward Dennis. Her dreams of Walter or thoughts therein of Walter during her ensuing marriage to Dennis perhaps even leading to Dennis's suicide. Whatever, the case may be the author has those choices to play God. I liked the story starved for more information as reading through the initial detail pondering as to where this was going and the infinite possibilities that were available. I wasn't shocked at the predictability as the story started unfolding when Dennis's suicide was unvailed. It was clear where it was going yet again the author was in charge and he very well should keep it going in the direction of this eminent romance of Walter's dreamgirl Katherine. Katherine was well described but would've been nice to see more about her dreams aspirations character and whatever else an author might have used to prime the pump as it were.
In summary, fine art is always subject to the palate of the peruser and each has a vision of what they want to feel it meant to them about them or about anything real or imagined. This writer knew what they were doing and composed a masterpiece with pieces assembled like a puzzle that had limitless possible solutions but one that really worked with a real feel good fit. The outcomes were puffy and peachy and felt the the mother's breath on a sick child's face. Thank you for a real piece that broke to an emotional move at real feel good love and romance.
This site does not need your kind of small, closed minded assnine comments.
If you don't like a story DONOT READ IT!.
If you have something say at LEAST SIGN your name.
ED
Its always a shame that people bad mouth an author, they try their hardest to be the best as no author is keen to produce a bad story.
'Dinsmore' please ignore the 'Anonymous', and create another well crafted story like this one
that the writers and editors are giving us a GIFT. If you don't like, SAY NOTHING. Informed criticism is fine, but I can see it now, "Mom, that's a really bad gift. Why don't you f*****g kill yourself."
BTW - good story
I read this story about a year ago and enjoyed it then. I have been re-reading some of the stories that I really liked on previous readings. This reminded me of some small town places that I had visited in the past and seemed very real and also even some of the classmates that I grew up with many years ago. I really liked it.
I liked the story but wished it was longer so it feels less like a roller coaster ride.
I grew up in a small midwest town in the US CornBelt; fell in love with a girl in 7th grade and like this story I was "not" in her class. I knew the day I met her that I wanted to marry and spend my life with her. I left without ever saying anything, but we weren't friends like these two. I did however call her a few weeks ago "34 years later" to chat; I kept it simple; she now nows basically "how I still feel". Unfortunately she is married and has at least one daughter (that's who answered the phone). So I can relate; the timing of finding this story is rather funny due to my contact but it definitely brings the point home to me.
Thx;
DKP
It is a great feel good type of story and the people feel real and the places seem to be right around the corner heh.
Good happy reads - Thank you
Started strong and felt like it was building up to something and then just kind of petered out into a sad little...and they lived happily ever after. Just my 2 cents.
A sweet romantic story. (except for the suicide)
with a rather abrupt wrap up.
Because I found other more active things to do. "Dennis" killed himself. To this day, we do not know why.
I have spent the past week (while recovering from an infection) reading everything you have posted. Your writing style, warmth and fundamental decency shine beautifully. I have cried reading some of these stories. While I empathize with your need to have active pursuits, please reconsider not writing. You have a special gift of communication and understanding and I for one would love to see you get back in the saddle. Thanks for all you have given us. Best.
J
Incidently, it's "throes of passion" not "throws" as in ball.
Who cares if the grammar is not to every self professed English Professor. I love romance stories and this story is good, sweet and it has a happy ending. Love you all!
My belief is Dennis knew she loved someone else and could never give her everything to him. He wanted more than his perfect marriage seemed to others. He couldn't walk away so just ended it the only way he knew....
I would high money on Donald's theory. Never having lived outside the area even if just a different part of the country, Dennis had nothing to compare. He watched TV and saw a different world and it got to him. A thought might have been "Is this all there is for me?" He just got struck by that idea and it finally got to him and he said aww fuck it and solved his problem the only way he knew"
I know--I have been pretty close to that a couple of times. I got lucky and was able to move past the problem but not without the scars.
RIP Dennis you are seeing new worlds now
It is fun to see the author is still paying attention to the comments. Just wish he would write more stories.
Thoroughly enjoyable story. Time well spent. Looking forward to more of your creative offerings. SF VET
This must be my third or fourth read, and it's still magical. Once in a while, when the world and I aren't living up to expectations, I need this sort of story. The general scheme -- plot, characters, the general flavor of the old home town -- is reminiscent of SW_MO_Hermit's stories, reflecting an optimistic belief that things can turn out all right, good guys can win ball games, and the things that can make it all work are going back to your roots, and hard work. I like that. We all need more of that in our world.
Thank you for these beneficial doses of therapy.
Hans
This must be the creation of a modern time Brigadoon ,loved it,5 *****
is the passion found in comments from the readers. Another is how those readers identify with the characters.
Well done Dinsmore, and thank you.
One mistake? Last paragraph. Walter would drive to his hillside and hug the still fetching COLLEEN? What about KATHERINE? Maybe they is kissing cousins
OH OH OH! Maybe he is the cock in a frock at a lesbian batchelorette party?
OOHH CAN I WATCH!
Thanks for sharing this Fantastic story with us!
Love you all! GREG.
OH 100 % OF READING ENJOYMENT BYE.
Colleen is a common English language name of Irish-American origin and a generic term for Irish women or girls. It was used earlier in the story.
Frank
colleen |käˈlēnˈkälēn|
noun
an Irish term for a girl or young woman.
ORIGIN
early 19th century: from Irish cailin, diminutive of caile ‘countrywoman.’
Anon of 7/25 is something of a twit.Many an Irish lass is called colleen,as the previous two posters pointed out, and a fair number are named Colleen.Which is rather redundant when you think about it.Either way they are pretty names.
Quote: "In some twisted way he couldn't accept what he had---how good he had it---because he had nothing to compare it to...felt that he had horribly missed something...and it killed him." End quote.
I grew up in a small rural town and thought I escaped to better things. Now that I am enslaved in the city, I realize what I lost and cannot regain. Wish I could go back!
Thank you.
Missed the xenophobia, meth addiction, STI epidemics, preppers, and gangs. Nice romanticized view of it all, though.
"Missed the xenophobia, meth addiction, STI epidemics, preppers, and gangs. Nice romanticized view of it all, though."
I have read this story many times and come back when I want to feel good.
You're a very great and gifted writer, Dinsmore. Never forget that, old friend.
MP
I read this about 3-4 years ago and possibly again before now. I like the transition from big city to back home and liked fact that Walter was a pilot! Thanks for a great love story!
Baton Rouge Cajun Guy
The sense of loss by a friend or loved one thats a suicide creates. It is the ultimate selfish move anyone can make. 5
Re-read a couple of your stories tonight. Thoroughly enjoyed them again. Very grateful.
On first blush, this didn't sound like a story that I would enjoy. Glad I decided to try it. I liked it a lot. 5*
Another winner from a gifted writer. Your writing style is so appealing and characters in your stories seem to come alive as I read the different stories. Well done Dinsmore. Another 5 star story. I only wish that I would see new published works.
I re-read and wrote a comment almost a year ago, however that time I chose not to mention a tragic event that happened in our family about 3 years ago. My sister’s 1st husband was killed in a truck accident on Christmas Eve nearly 30 years ago. Thankfully my nephew decided not to go riding with his dad that evening. My nephew grew up, married, and now has 2 small children who now miss their grandmother, my sister, who had demons in her head and left her 2nd spouse the same manner as Dennis, but it happened in one of the bathrooms of the house. She would have been 70 years old after Christmas! It is difficult to lose loved ones by natural causes but especially so in a tragic situation such as suicide! Please pray for those those folks facing mental illness or difficulty with unemployment, paying for housing, food, etc!
Best wishes and hopefully safe Holiday season to all and a soon end to covid virus.
The Baton Rouge Cajun Guy!
All n/erotic so far. Usually do most of my reading in LW’s. There are a handful of writers who don’t use sex as the focus and are extremely talented and I’m sure are published and successful even if they won’t admit it.
I must say that your writing and gift for stories is equal to them at a minimum. I really relate to your moral and honorable characters as I am from the same era and upbringing. Look forward to reading your other stories and while some are probably not going to be in my interest area. At least I know they will be very well written and appreciated if not agreed with.
So far 5+ stars on all I have read from you so far.
(10/21/2021) Nicely done; this was an enjoyable poignant read. 5 stars from me.
Such a lovely story. A love story, of a man, a woman, an area and of course copious friends. Totally a beautiful tale. Please do more of the same. LP
It's a marvelous story and I loved it, but aside from Dennis' death, there was no conflict. I don't mind, but it's a technical flaw.
Beautiful and wonderful romantic story. Love it very much. Definitely a five star rating. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
It was a good story but it felt rushed. So many time skips, don't really get to hear about his children or his life afterwards. Just
A great well-written story. The fairy-tale plot and the lack of conflict are serious flaws, but it's hard to criticize such a well written and feel-good story. I look forward to reading some of your other work.
Good story, but everything is going just too quick and too well. No conflict. She is ready for new love when he comes. Her husband killed himself several years ago. All the necessary key personal moved the area before needed and waiting for his job proposal. It's just too much.
What a wonderful story. Local guy goes away, does good and returns to do good for his home town.
A real life fairytale. You will want to read in again and again.
The Hoary Cleric
1 star. Not strictly speaking a slam on the author or the story quality itself, just the fact that she's just like all the other women, when a man is young and amazing she ignors him unless he's a literal prince with family money and great looks and fame; then when he spends 20 years making something out of himself, through his own blood sweat and tears, NOW she's suddenly interested in his paying for and raising the prince's offspring. She doesn't deserve him. And the whole garbage about loving her for 20 years is just that, garbage. He's described as so awesome, there's no way he couldn't meet another woman he'd be able to love in all this time.
I double dog rare the author to write the opposite story. A girl waits 20 years for a guy who thought she wasn't a marriage material in school, makes a real gem of herself, then meets him 20 years later and marries him as a single father helping him raise someone else's kids.
I re-read your story again after about a year and it was even better than the first time. I had several heart tugs and near-tear events. Thanks again for a great story.
A good story but an editor would have easily picked up half a dozen errors and half a dozen cases where a poor choice of words led to ambiguity.
Re inka2222.
Speaking only for men here coz even after 47 years of happy marriage I still have absolutely no idea what makes women tick, or what motivates them. Many teenagers do get seriously heartbroken and hurt by their first love. Out of misguided loyalty they stay faithful to their girlfriend, well their memory of their girlfriend, and then it becomes a habit and just sticks around until it is broken.
I was deeply madly in forever love when I was 15. You know, we actually invented "being in love". No one in all of creation had ever been in love like we two were. We were forcibly separated by circumstances beyond our control. I was 24 before I allowed myself back into the dating pool. In my foolish immature mind (read teenage male mind) I was sure I was remaining faithful to my girlfriend, and rejected all offers or advances by the fairer sex and actively resented the girls for trying to spoil the integrity of the love I had for my girlfriend.
Then this frame of mind and course of actions just became a habitual and automatic response.
Until I met my wife, obviously.