[Report This]Date: April 10 2025 2:46 AM Title: Exposed
Immediately after my last review I succumbed to temptation and read Chapter 12. I've been ruminating on how I should frame my review since then, because I don't want to come across as overly-critical, or as a detractor of an amazing story. As my ratings have consistently shown, you have gone above and beyond my expectations chapter after chapter. This story is excellent, the characters are wonderful, and the plot is incredible. You have consistently used direct comparisons of characters actins in different scenarios to lead us to compare characters actions, and to guide us to conclusions you then rocked with Magnitude 10 earthquakes as you dropped new context on us. You have established incredible characters, and maintained the core of who they are, while allowing them to grow, or to expose more of themselves, or to break out of their anti-social shells. You have presented us with moral conundrums, shown how abuse begets abuse, and brilliantly argued for the consideration of context, both current and past, in judging an individual's actions. AND ALL OF THIS WITHOUT A WORD OF IT STATED EXPLICITLY THROUGH NARRATION, EXPOSITION, OR DIALOGUE!
I'm blown away. This has been an incredible ride, with so many developments, revelations, and a HUGE twist ending.
BUT HOW IS THIS COMPLETE: YES?
That one question is likely coloring my entire review, because the "ending" was such a surprise, such a shock, and frankly somewhat confounding. I understand you intend to continue the story, but... I have a hard time accepting this story as complete. There are too many unanswered questions.
- Who is behind the shrinking? We have a name, but is this personal? Business? Is this Baneford person the driving force, or just a middle manager for a larger, looming threat? We've seen mention of a major company moving into the area, and my reader-senses are tingling that it's not just background noise / a red herring.
- Why Duncan? What's his connection to this whole thing? He wasn't an asshole in his position at Monica's company, so I doubt it's business, but why would it be personal, unless he somehow upset a powerful family that fostered him? There are details that could be hints towards this, but there's no answer.
- What is Lyra's deal? What are her goals, why is she doing this?
- Most importantly, when is Ada going to get her shrunken man?
These pressing, vital questions and more are left unanswered. I can understand this being the first part of a story, but at least do us a favor and retitle this as Roomies: Part 1. That sudden, unfinished ending is too cruel for this gentle story, but if I know that it's a complete Part 1, rather than a complete story, I could accept this outcome.
(For the record, I acknowledge that I personally deserve such an ending and worse after what I've done to my poor readers for Small Investments, but your other readers don't deserve such an incredible story made pint-sized in the final hour.)
Damn, I did what I told myself I wouldn't and I focused on the abrupt ending. Aside from my hang-up on the cliffhanger, I want to just reiterate what an incredible job you've done with this story. From character building to character development to conveying detail and sense of scale, to using and manipulating reader expectations and abusing poor communication among characters before using good communication to help them grow, I could go on and on waxing rhapsodic about your talented use of literary tools to craft a beautiful, wonderful, incredible story.
I await your next entry into what needs to be a series with great anticipation.
[Report This]Date: April 05 2025 4:04 AM Title: Ada vs. the Sultry Showoffs
Hey, It Was Me? I'm getting a little concerned here. I'm down to one chapter left in a story that's Complete: Yes, and I don't actually see the end in sight. You're too talented of an author to rush the ending, so, uh... I really hope that Duncan, Callie, and Co. are Okay at the end of this. Nothing completes a story more completely than a permanent, biblical ending.
Alright, now that's off my chest, let's dig in. I have to say, I shamefully did not consider Monica and Kristie might bond over their shared trauma, or rather, the trauma they imparted unto people undeserving of it. I can see Kristie was actively trying to get Monica to do what she had threatened, but that does not absolve Monica of her responsibility, and I'm glad to see she knows this. Still, I hate to see her suffer. She did something unforgiveable, as has Kristie, but that doesn't erase the rest of their existence, and I am still rooting for Monica, and I've finally come around to rooting for Kristie too. I totally want to see Monica & Kristie officially together at the end of this, with both of them working to smooth out their worst acquired interpersonal behaviors. Especially Kristie's. I'm expecting another comparative scene, where instead of Duncan, and then Callie trying to get everyone to trust Ada (which is suddenly seeming like a BAD MOVE), we instead see Monica trying to get the others to accept Kristie as part of the group.
And speaking of Ada... that uncomfortable-comfortable voyeur and really willing - super horny exhibitionist scene was hot as fuck! Great use of a simple, but effective prop, both to turn Duncan into a finger fuck-puppet, and to finish Ada off by hanging him out to soak in Callie's saliva. Start to finish, you really drew me in like a second voyeur in the room. I love how well you teased Ada by including her in the action with Callie's attentiveness, without ever actually, physically including her in the sex. Wonderful job. 10/10.
But then there was Ada's sexually-frustrated post FTB scene, and that stinger at the end. Ada isn't telling our leading lady, nor her beloved finger fuckit, that there's more to the nanomachines than was presented at the start. I don't think it's been framed by Catamaunt as a bad thing, else I expect Ada would have put a stop to it, but I do not like Ada keeping secrets. Her judgement has been shown to be... rather naive at times. I just hope whatever's going on doesn't hurt or separate our happy couple. If that, "If another tiny man shows up on somebody’s doorstep, I’m calling dibs," isn't foreshadowing, then I'm actually the height I want to be. I don't think it's Alyssia, but I have a sinking feeling for Callie.
And then there's that stinger. Things are going well, and we already have one ominous secret threatening our happy, mixed-size couple. Now Natasha's back in the picture. May she find what she deserves.
[Report This]Date: April 04 2025 3:41 AM Title: Duncan vs. the Diffident Domme
Apologies for a shorter-than-average review, but it's late, and I'm not firing on all cylinders.
The opening scene was fun and touching, in both of the good ways. Duncan and Callie are not just communicating, but opening up to each other, and that's fantastic. Frankly, this story is very much a guide for defining and attaining mixed-size relationship goals.
Callie getting all creative and adventurous again with taking Duncan out on her walk with her friend is a double header of great reminders of why Callie is such an awesome person. I love the balance she's finding between her protective urges, and her developing assertiveness. She needs more of that, and I'm so proud of Duncan for pushing her to be more assertive. I've heard it said there are seven words that can make a woman fall in love with you, and apparently "I'm proud of you. I trust you," fits the bill. Those lines, and your set-up and character reactions around them, was excellent. I was experiencing full-on frission by the end of that scene.
Kristie and Monica's scene hurt, for several reasons, really. I feel a lot of sympathy for Kristie - what happened to her is not her fault, and I find it hard to blame her for her personality. That being said, she is still accountable for her actions, and she raped her tiny boyfriend. That act will never be forgiven. But I could still accept her as a person, if she could stop lashing out like a rabid dog. I understand that people don't just turn around from that - they need someone to help them, and that's why this hurts double. Monica is now probably the only person, perhaps aside from Duncan, who cares about what happened, and what will happen to Kristie. However, Monica effectively sabotaged any chances she had of helping Kristie through her trauma when she blackmailed the tiny into being an agreeing, yet effectively unwilling, victim of sexual assault. Right there was the tiny girlfriend (some re-assembly required) I was hoping Monica would find, but her anger and her lust combined into a perfect storm to deprive them both of the care they needed before it had a chance to develop.
At least things, almost, ended on a positive note. Callie's gentle dom act was cute and sexy, and I absolutely loved seeing her play her simple, near-effortless games requiring quite the workout from her tiny lover. It's so wonderful seeing them open up and pursue their needs and wants together. It's heartwarming to see their love, and trust, and respect blossom and grow. Great chapter!
But things didn't end there, and to be honest, I was briefly concerned for Alyssia's sake. For a few moments, I was afraid Monica would need to find a new assistant after the current one was downsized. While that did not happen, that does not mean the rest of the scene set my mind at ease. We're seeing conspiracy and frustration. I'm becoming increasingly worried for the feminine members of our little found family.
All in all, great chapter, and I'm looking forward to reading the next one!
[Report This]Date: March 26 2025 3:12 AM Title: Callie vs. the Delectable Date
Alright, I was able to read another chapter tonight!
I like the tone set by the opening scene with Ada. Duncan has been pretty accepting of his reality, and this is the first real look we're getting of him getting frustrated with his lack of physical agency. I have a feeling that as he gets more intimate with Callie, this will be a more common occurrence - not necessarily Duncan losing his cool, but him coming up against barriers that he can't overcome with effort.
Great introduction to date-mode Callie. I'm glad she's letting Duncan treat her. For same size relationships this could result in a power imbalance, or cause friction over financials, but given the physical power imbalance, this is a good way for them to even things out on a different scale. I'm glad Callie is conscious of the expense, but still willing to let Duncan treat her. Also, poor Alyssia is the but of so many jokes that I'm glad she got some of her revenge last chapter, and got a great start to a passionate night of self-guided relaxation. Also, the chauffeur's uniform is an excellent gag. Absolutely love it, especially when she points to dinky Duncan and claims he "forced" her to wear it.
The car scene was delightfully spicy. I know it's not the fist time you've used it in this story, but referring to her breasts as "girlflesh" still feels like a new descriptor to me. It's self-descriptive, yet exotic, and I find it strangely evocative. Absolutely love it, and I cannot promise I won't steal it at some point. Still, that wasn't the only spicy bit, and Callie's unquestioning determination to "fuck Duncan's brains out" is a promise I fully intended to see fulfilled. I was thinking to myself, "there better not be a bait and switch, dammit!"
The setting for the dinner is absolutely perfect, and I'm glad you managed to incorporate the entire cast into the date. I'm also really glad that Ada is officially part of the group; she's not just physically present, but she's been accepted by everyone. I also want to mention that I love Monica's use of manila folders for sensitive information almost as much as I hate what you do with them. The teasing, the foreshadowing, the mystery all up in my face! It is not okay! Well, I mean, it makes the story and the reveal just that much better, so I won't count it against you, but know that those folders you use grant you great power. Continue to handle such scenes with the great responsibility they deserve.
The discussion over the entre gave us a nice look at Duncan's past, but there's something going on with the Brenadines and Duncan that just isn't jiving for me. You have dropped a bunch of hints and left clear indicators for this, so I feel like I'm just following along thus far with the slow unveil as intended. If I had to make a leap of story logic forward, I would assume that the boy whose injury was blamed on Kristie was really injured by Duncan while he was with the Brenadines. What's not clear to me is if Duncan is actually a blood relation of the Brenadines as well, but I see it as a possibility with the mysterious past before Duncan turned 4. I'm also wondering if the injured boy (who I believe to be a Brenadine) or one of his family members targeted Duncan and Kristie as revenge for the incident. That I do feel is rather likely, though I could see them being targeted as a matter of convenience, rather than the shrinking tech being developed specifically for Duncan and Kristie, and whomever else might end up affected.
Sorry, right, this is a review. I'll take off my tinfoil hat now, and stop wondering if one or more of the girls will end up shrunk, with the new dynamic shaking up Callie and Duncan's relationship before the end.
So, right, where were we? Oh, dessert! Oh my god, the chocolate fountain was an inspiration! I love Callie's seductively devious mind. The two of them are an awesome couple, and this scene bares that fact to the world (or Monica at least) in all its sexy glory. I love how well you direct Callie's use of her entire mouth, and how Callie makes use of her understanding that Duncan has a taste for rougher play. Callie's power, the sensuous descriptions, and Duncan's perseverance made this scene hot as hell, but I think my favorite part was the confluence of a flustered Callie, a cool cat Duncan, and a wide-eyed Monica when she caught them in the act. "Theck pleath" shall forever be associated with this scene. Goodness, i was so happy with this chapter, that was a great way to end it, ready to pick up where they left off in the next chapt- er...
HOLY HANNAH, IT'S NOT OVER YET!
I may have yelled that aloud, much to the displeasure of my neighbor in the apartment next door, but holy shit did Callie and Duncan hit the bedroom running! Everything from the action to the pillow talk to the full on couple's banter was on point, and I laughed my ass off at the reference to the couch incident (which I suspect was not a 1 time thing...) Once again, I have to praise your graphic descriptions of movement and details, and I love how much agency Duncan had with pleasuring Callie, rather than being used as a masturbatory aid. Great scene, 14 out of 10. And then to end it with both of them satisfied, content, and best of all, at peace? *Chef's kiss* Simply magnificent!
[Report This]Date: March 25 2025 1:14 AM Title: Duncan vs. the Resigned Roommate
OH MY GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD IT HAPPENED IT HAPPENED ITHAPPENEDITHAPPENED!
FINALLY! THEY COMMUNICATED!
Sorry, I'm a bit excited at the moment. Damn, you know how to close out a chapter on a high point. Anyway, the rest of the chapter deserves attention too, so let's start at the beginning again.
To misquote Bennet from The Sorcerer's Apprentice, "I don't know what you're into Ada, but you are definitely, participating! Gah, I'm so glad to see Alyssia, and by extension Monica, warming up to our socially awkward, needy nerdy girl. I really want the best for Ada, even if Duncan and Co are bringing her to the Dark Side for all the right reasons. I love that we even get a The Empire Strikes Back reference from Alyssia!
Still, I gotta hand it to Duncan. It's not original, but slashing the Naughty Professor's tires proved to be a masterful stroke of complete genius. Not only did it get him some quality time with Alyssia, but it got Callie out from under the sexually abusive thumb of her tormenter. Okay, I definitely felt the heavy hand of plot advancement there, but I can buy into the premise if it means Ickwell gets his comeuppance.
Seeing as Monica was keeping Stillwell busy by asking for help, I'm surprised we didn't see any clear signs of her bringing a gift of high proof spirits as a gift. It didn't need to be stated, but mention of a gift from Monica, the peaty scent of a high quality Scotch on Sickwell's breath, or a slight exaggeration to his confident swagger all might have pointed to a lubricating effect to Stillwell's tongue. It would have made his outburst a bit more believable.
Anyway, Stillwell got what was coming (or at least a piece of it), but I can't move on from that scene without commenting on one line in particular. "I wanted to shove him inside me so bad this morning, but I had to settle for his couch instead." That line just freaking blew my mind. She was so horny for her roomie, she used his couch as a dildo. I've never seen that, I never expected to see that, and I think that is hot as hell. It also makes me think Duncan needs to watch himself around his pent-up roomie, especially on their first date. God, I can't wait.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. I need to touch on Alyssia's game. I freaking loved that scene. She tries to one-up little Duncan, and he fucking BLOWS her challenge out of the water, while awakening something inside her. I find myself now hoping that Alyssia gets her own tiny roomie, though hopefully more willing than Monica's. Not that willingness seems to matter to her *grumblegripegrumble* but I want Alyssia to be happy with a tiny who is also happy to be with her.
And then there's Callie. Horny, desperate, love-bitten Callie. I laughed my ass off at her time in the bar. Constantly comparing all these men to her perfect little roomie. I absolutely adored her loyalty, her dedication, her admiration for Duncan. I'm not gonna lie, after the previous chapter I was a little afraid for Duncan when she came home. I legitimately feared that she might give Duncan a repeat of his time with Kristie, shattering their relationship, and requiring it to be built up over time, while they tried to hide her transgression from the others out of guilt and embarrassment, (misplaced as those would be on Duncan's part).
I am so, so glad that didn't happen, and I didn't have to put my keyboard through a window. I'm so happy to see them together, and planning their first official date. I'm glad they finally talked, even if it felt like someone used my emotions to pull nails out of wet 2x4's to get there. But in a good way...
Anyway, I'm really looking forward to reading how things go on their first date! i don't know if I'm hoping Callie can contain herself for Duncan's sake, or if she can't for my enjoyment's sake.
The latter. Definitely the latter.
[Report This]Date: March 24 2025 3:08 AM Title: Duncan vs. the Ethical Endeavor
Whelp, i just spent two hours writing an in-depth and thorough review for this chapter, only to accidentally reload the page and lose it... so I'm going to paraphrase here.
Great chapter, even if the last scene feels off. Kristie feels both pitiful, and pitiable, and I don't feel like this style of punishment will do anything to curtail her behavior. That's in part due to her constant outbursts despite clear and present danger, and from the mysterious file. That Kristie would rather be raped than have that file's contents revealed points to a person who has done terrible things and not learned, or who is too absorbed in their self image for trauma to change her.
I'm glad Duncan reigned in Callie's semi-conscious attempts to harm Kristie, for which I can't blame the girl. She has felt neutered against her own abuser, save for the last, near-disastrous act of defiance, and now her love's abuser is literally within her grasp. I'm impressed some squeezing is the worst that happened until Monica got her hands on little Kristie.
The last scene, if decoupled from the story, was a very hot cruel-lite scene. I really likes the casual power, the effortless dominance, the strain of Monica trying to carry on the conversation, Callie holding herself back from masturbating along to the amorous gasps and moans, and awakening to new desires for her interactions with Duncan.
However, in the context of the story, this scene feels off. I can see Monica using Blackmail against the other employees in her company to keep them in line. I can't see her using it to assuage her guilt over using her physicality to rape someone, even if that someone is an abuser. Thematically, this story has been about decrying the evils of abuse in all its forms, including and even highlighting sexual abuse, and suddenly it's being used to justify Monica getting her rocks off. I definitely felt off with this, like the part of a Season 6 Supernatural episode where we watch a major character do something totally uncharacteristic, and we haven't yet learned that they no longer have a soul.
Anyway, it was a solid chapter, with an objectively hot scene at the end that happened to feel subjectively off-kilter. I'm really hoping I can read another chapter tomorrow night.
[Report This]Date: March 20 2025 3:44 AM Title: Duncan vs. the Tacit Trauma
I… was not fully prepared for this chapter. Part of me wants to go straight to the end, because holy crap, that was a huge game changer in a tiny package, but I’ll be good and not skip the majority of what was a great chapter.
First, Monica. I really like Monica. I didn’t think I would from initial descriptions, but she’s probably character #3 for me. I was thinking to myself at the start of this chapter that she needs to get herself a tiny girlfriend, one she can play with like she does Duncan, but with whom she can expand her interactions beyond just innocent play. I feel like she’s being a little too harsh on poor Ada, who has only ever done what she thought others might like, and has only wanted a friend, but I can respect Monica for protecting her employee, and more recently, her friend.
Ah, Ada. The poor girl is too focused on facts, and continuously fails to consider how context can alter the implications and conclusions to be drawn from those facts. It’s not really her fault that she’s ignorant of Duncan’s tragic history, and she’s experienced Duncan deriving pleasure from being in her mouth - she’s only doing what seems to her to be the natural progression of their relationship, all the while ready to stop if he says no.
God, I could break down this scene with Ada, and the contrasting scene with Callie (which, again, Holy Hannah are you a master of establishing contrasting scenes to make a point. Like, please sensei, would you be willing to teach a master class?) but rather than diving into every exquisite detail, I just want to take a moment to look at this from a bigger picture. I have read a few stories, both short and long form, which try to convey the importance, the implementation, and the ill aftermath of failure to use active consent. Many of those have been informative, some have even been palatable to read, coming across as instructive rather than preachy.
HOLY SHIT! You freaking wrote an S-Tier manual on the consequences and correct application of active, continuous consent, and you didn’t even use the word! It’s not present in this chapter anywhere, but I could give this to someone who fails to understand the importance, and right there is not only a warning of the potential pitfalls, but a clear and sexy application of the concept. I give you kudos, I tip my hat to you, hell, I dogeza before that execution. So incredibly well done, and hot as all hell.
Sorry, back on the characters, I’m so glad we’re past the misunderstanding minefield… BUT NO! Right at the end, Duncan’s guilt comes crashing back in, and now Callie’s questioning what’s up with Duncan. You set up a great scene for catharsis, but it was too easy, too cheaply earned, and you recognized that, and threw a massive monkey wrench of trauma and dark history at us.
I knew, from the moment Callie said it was a tiny woman, that it was Kristie. Duncan had just pushed himself to move past the trauma she had inflicted upon him, at least for a moment. He had just taken a step forward - it had to be Kristie to bring all of that sidelined trauma back to the fore.
Still, I see this as a good thing. Duncan has the opportunity to directly confront the source of so much of his trauma, the origin of several ingrained reactions and hang-ups. This puts him on an equal footing (and with his physicality, an arguably superior footing) before we even consider the support group that has grown up around him. Tiny Kristie can only be a good thing for Duncan’s path of healing… if not for one simple, easily overlooked fact.
Who shrank Kristie, or if not responsible for the shrinking, then who collected her, and brought her to Duncan? I have a sinking feeling that there are surveillance devises in and around Callie’s apartment. At this stage, my money would be on Duncan’s estranged family playing some sort of game.
Dammit, it’s almost midnight, there’s no way I’m getting another chapter in tonight. Thanks so much for this incredible story, I’m practically chomping at the bit to finish reading and see how it ends!
[Report This]Date: March 18 2025 3:05 AM Title: Duncan vs. the Shy Slaver
Damn, my heart ached for Callie at the start of this chapter. Bringing Duncan in to help her cheat was silly, it was dangerous, it was daring, and worst of all, it had worked! And then it had all gone to shit... Duncan was missing, presumed dead (by Callie, sorta. Guilt sucks), and Callie had no idea what else she could do. I'm so glad Monica was there for her, to comfort her, and to comisserate, while keeping Callie from falling into despair.
The next scene with Callie was quite interesting as well. Holy crap is she handy! I mean, the bed was impressive on its own, but it sounds like Duncan has quite the setup here! And the pictures! Not just the effort in creating the framed photos, but the contents themselves are wonderful, or at least delightfully campy (Imminent vore shot? Check!). Duncan and Callie have such a wonderful relationship.
Swapping to Duncan's scenes, holy cow did you solidify Ada's nerd cred! From her Sci-Fi collection (I would have LOVED a Firefly bedpread when I was younger) to her Dune tee-shirt, it's obvious she's got the merch, but you really sold it with her socially awkward introduction and utter lack of conversational skills. That was totally me with strangers at that age. Well, strangers I wasn't meeting for a purpose. I actually think Ada did really well here! Kudos for letting Duncan carry the conversation!
And then the ice was broken, and that nerdy need to know surged forth. I absolutely love how well you characterize through action and word choice, and Ada's intro is a shining example of that. Oh, and the Cool Ranch Doritos and Dew? Classic!
But then she gets all possessive?! And here I was hoping the nerdy Browncoat would be a new, positive influence on his life, but nope, she straight up declares Duncan as her slave! You betrayed my faith in you, nerdy Ada! But no! She doesn't really want to enslave him; she just wants a friend, and mirroring his reactions is about the extent of her social repertoire outside of talking about her Sci-Fi. Gah, my heart goes out to this poor, unassuming girl who just wants human interaction, not realizing the other party is a victim of abuse, with no real context about his captor beyond what she's shown him, and what he's seen from other giant, abusive women. She doesn't understand that Duncan's ability to stop their 'playacting' is something only she can perceive, and that even thinking of bringing it up is anathema to the abused tiny. She can't see or understand that his projected expectations mixed with her social anxiety and need for companionship have combined into a horribly toxic concotion of a social heirarchy, with neither feeling in control.
And then it gets so much worse (better)! Misinterpreting his stated fears as his desires, she doubles down and puts him in a degrading situation she thinks he'll enjoy, not understanding that... that, uh... that he actually will enjoy it, but will be very confused by his reaction. Damn, this was a great way to expose Duncan to some aspects of size play that would have been far less likely under Callie's care. Gah, this was a perfect storm, and I absolutely loved it!
I'm also glad that when the truth came to light, Ada proved she was a proud Browncoat, and brought Duncan back to his found family (in progress). It was kind of Duncan to try covering for Ada, but perhaps a bit of explanation would have been the safer way to go, as shown by Monica picking up on Ada's pleased surprise.
I did enjoy that scene with Duncan and Monica. I'm proud to see her opening up with Duncan. I'm glad to have it confirmed she's not there for him romantically, but because she cares about him as a person. No chance of his growing relationship with Callie souring their relationship with Monica, at least not through direct jealousy. I hope they continue to stick together moving forward, even if there are some understandable reservations towards Ada.
Gah, I want to read another chapter, but it's bedtime. Great story, I'm loving everythong thus far, and I can't wait to see what comes next!
[Report This]Date: March 17 2025 2:26 AM Title: Callie vs. the Titillating Test
Screw it! The dishes will still be there tomorrow, and I can pull fresh clothes out of the dryer. *Smashes Coffee Mug* Another!
I'm always impressed with how well you maintain the sense of scale with each mixed-size interaction. You are detailed and descriptive, without undue verbosity. Our introduction to Dr. Catamaunt is a great example of this, be it through your description of Duncan's office, Callie's interactions with Duncan, or the Doc's reaction to seeing Callie from something akin to Dunkan's PoV. (BTW, I immediately Googled to see if the name has any historical / literary connotations... 0.0 Spicy!)
So, we need yet another person to know about Duncan's existence? I immediately find myself expecting a cute med student, who... hmm, probably not a sweet girl - Callie is delightfully nuanced, but is closest to Deredere and Dorodere, likely ruling those out. Monica is close enough to a Tsundere to rule that out. Maybe a Kuudere? Makes sense for a med student, I suppose.
Oh my goodness, I love the mini house! Using rubber erasers for elevation would also serve for decent vibration isolation. Such a good idea! And I love the color scheme.
I'm also glad to see Callie moving past her mental hang-ups. The culture she grew up in forged those invisible chains of misplaced guilt and self-doubt; it's refreshing to see Duncan helping her to break free of them.
That being said, I'm concerned about how and when she's decoding to change things up. Her style isn't her typical comfortable clothes, but a reactionary risqué that may come back to bite her. Regardless of who is to blame for the gazes, wearing less fabric than Daisy Duke will draw additional attention, ans with Duncan with her, and less fabric in which to hide him, I expected this midterm to be very stressful for our dear Callie.
And... I was wrong? No, I was very wrong. I doubt her normal shirts had pockets, so I guess leaving her chest exposed gave Duncan more room to escape, but the impact her fashion combined with her physicality had on Slimewell was beyond my expectations. Well played.
As that confrontation was playing out, I loved that Duncan's mere presence was enough to bolster Callie's confidence. Couples that support each other, both actively and by extension with their passive presence, is what draws me to these stories. I absolutely adore this interaction.
Callie taking control at the end of the test was a little rude, but at the same time I'm glad to see her asserting herself in an environment in which she felt severely uncomfortable and timid.
That said, Brooklyn asserting herself over Callie's need for the restroom was just plain rude. If you need to talk, follow the poor girl!
But no, instead we get a panicked Callie, a missing Duncan, and a monstrously evil cliffhanger! *tucks the manuscript for Small Investments under a blank folder*
Damn, I've been reading off and on since about 3, and it's now almost 10:30, so I'm not getting a fourth chapter in today, but I'm so glad I took the time to read these chapters, and I'm chomping at the bit to read more. Do you think my boss would accept Evil Cliffhanger in a Fetish Story as a viable excuse for a last minute PTO request? I'm damn tempted to try it.
Anyways, this is a great story, loving the characters, and I can't wait to read more!
[Report This]Date: March 16 2025 10:46 PM Title: Callie vs. the Esoteric Executive
Fuck it. This may have been a rare opportunity for free time, but my friends can spread managed democracy without me. I needed to know what happens next with Callie and Duncan and Monica! And especially Callie.
The opening to this chapter goves me a very different view of Monica than we've seen previously, and I find it refreshingly unexpected. Then again, her approach to dealing with Callie reinforces Duncan's initial description of Monica, so it's nice to know he wasn't just badmouthing his at least somewhat-caring boss.
It's kinda heartwarming to see Duncan and Callie solidifying their Roomie connection, with Duncan literally giving Callie control over his financials. That's more trust than some mardied couples have in their partner, the practical aspect of Callie shopping for Duncan ve damned.
It was nice to see that as rough and cutthroat as the culture is at Shale Holdings, at least Monica and Alyssia seem to care about Duncan. I laughed at the nicknames thing (poor Shortstack - I mean, Alyssia) and I'm looking forward to finding out what she came up with. I'm not sure whether I'm hoping for a typical tiny pet name or something more creative.
(Also, side note, I love the character names in this story. Even Stillwell has an interesting name, may it be written on a thousand sheets of paper and each of them be used to draw his blood.)
I'm enjoying the power dynamics between Monica, who ostensibly has all the power, and yet is somewhat yielding to Callie for Duncan's care (I admit I'm surprised she didn't just demand to care for him personally). Then there's Callie and Duncan, where Callie has physical veto power on everything, even as they're trying to help each other out. And then we have Callie's almost Hero Worship of Monica, with her tiny charge somewhere above her in the eyes of her Hero. It's tenuous, and potentially in flux, and I'm looking forward to seeing how those relationships develop.
And once again, we get a delightful contrast. As Monica brings the car to a screeching halt, Duncan and Callie's relationship takes one step closer. I hope we get to see Callie testing the effects of her moans on little Duncan before too long!
Before I touch on Monica again, I want to talk about Callie's parents. Their characterisation frustrates the hell out of me. Well done. The parental lecturing that they know better than Callie, the backwards logic they were raised on that they will not and at this age maybe even cannot question but keep using as a metric to shape and limit Callie - it's all too familiar, not necessarily for myself, certainly not in all aspects, but I've seen it again and again through the years. You have perfectly captured the loving parents feom whom the child needs to distance herself.
Okay, that's said, back to Monica.
WOW, I feel like her personality is worn commando style - lose any of her outer share, and she bares it all. I expected some light teasing, maybe a bit of shock at her unfiltered personality, then some heavier teasing, but she wasted no time. It went from a brief icebreaker about work, to 'I know your dark secret and I'm going straight for the fucking jugular!" And her reaction to his first touch? I can only imagine that from this day forward, any time Duncan sees her Ice Queen demeanor he'll see every crack in that passionless façade.
I will say this transition was probably the most jarring of the story thus far. That should in no way inply it was bad; rather, I admit I was left reeling by these events. And then Callie's return? I'll give Duncan this: he stuck his landing like a champ, even if he landed face first in his boss' toes. I mean, A+ for effort, even if his excuse earned an F, both for Foot and Failure. And then Monica doubles down on the awkward excuse! And then Callie buys it?! I'm holding out hope that the next chapter starts woth Callie holding in her surprise, laughter, and/or confusion, and that she went along with this because her Hero was involved.
Regardless, another great chapter, I'm really looking forward to an opportunity to read the next one!
[Report This]Date: March 16 2025 9:07 PM Title: Callie vs. the Persuasive Professor
Why was Duncan so untrusting prior to shrinking? The first chapter could be interpreted as reasonable caution, but this second chapter just screams Serious Trust Issues.
You do a great job early on of framing Kristie as messy and undisciplined, especially when it comes to caring about others. Your efforts to characterize her as a manipulative (to the point of abusive) woman were even a step above. It's clear Kristie actively worked to separate Duncan from people. I can't help but wonder whether she was the primary reason, or more likely primary catalyst, that Duncan separated from the Brenadines (who seem to be his adoptive family, or the main family of which he was a branch member?) The fact that not only are Duncan's whereabouts unknown to his family, but that Kristie is confident of that fact tells me that while she might not make much effort to care for her boy toy, she has made ample effort to keep him to herself. And I do mean boy toy, even before he shrunk. Kristie is definitely hard-core gaslighting him even in her most gentle interactions, and Duncan's reactions that such behavior is expected highlight this quite nicely. I'm very curious to learn what she did to earn his trust in the first place.
I love that you incorporate this controlling aspect into even her most mundane actions. Even just in picking Duncan up, Kristie is not only controlling him by doing so against his will, but she is actively restraining his limbs, removing his agency in this relationship, reducing him to the toy she believes him to be.
Also, I have to comment: Breadcrumbs? Just breadcrumbs? That's all she fed him? I can deal with being caged by a sexy giant woman who wants to treat me as a sex toy, but I draw the line at withholding good food. Give the poor guy a crumb of everything on your plate and he'll be eating like a king. That's not neglect, that's not just betrayal, that is malicious cruelty of the highest order.
Monica Shale is a new character for me (I know the story is already complete). The fact that when comparing Monica to his manipulative girlfriend, Duncan considers Monica the far more controlling individual sets a high bar for her first reveal - and not as a good or caring person.
I feel terrible that Duncan's experiences have given him night terrors. Taking something incredibly intimate and turning it into the thing that terrorizes your dreams is a definite tug at the heartstrings.
And then there's Callie, both desperately trying to help him, but simultaneously awakening to the feelings such power over another person evoke in her.
Loved the song choice for the lullaby, btw!
And my goodness, she made him clothes! And a bed!! I can't be bothered to figure out a sewing machine to patch up my own clothes. I can manage some needle and thread, but it's too much of a hassle. I'm definitely rooting for Callie to come out ahead in this story.
"Or maybe he's into it." Yeah, I laughed wayy too hard at that. Callie is shping up to be a good girl who has some new or repressed desires that might not be so healthy for Duncan. I'm looking forward to seeing what rises to the occasion: her compassion or the newfound aspects of her personality.
Professor Stillwell. I really hope he receives his comeuppance later in the story, and if so, I can't wait to get to it. You have written a grade-A creep, and I only want to learn more about him so I can see that information used against him. Viscerally. I certainly wouldn't mind seeing him shrunken and dropped into Kristie's mailbox, maybe with a note that reads, "Despite what I may say, I really enjoy staying bound and gagged."
Oh, my, I see Callie and Duncan have taken a new 'step' in their relationship! It's good for Duncan to explore more of his sexuality, and how else would he have gotten a faceful of Callie's toes and sweat to learn about somethong else that turns him on? Though I admit I expected that event to derail the following conversation, I'm really glad things turned back to Callie's experiences with Stillwell, and I love how you handled it. Both in terms of how Duncan pushed when needed and Callie started to realize where blame truly lay, but also in some of the physicality of the scene contrasting with earlier parts of the chapter. Callie offering Duncan a lift rather than plucking him up, and the juxtaposition of Callie intentionally freeing Duncan's arms to give him a sense of control and agency, when Kristie had intentionally trapped them. But there's also that comparison of her wanting him to be comfortable, and her enjoyment of holding him tightly. Add that to a callback to Callie's cry for help in the previous chapter, and you get a chaf's kiss for this. Gah, this scene is so well done!!!
Oh, my. Callie seems to have some seriously rose-tinted glasses when she looks at Monica Shale. I'm glad to see her giving Duncan the push he needs in the wake of receoving her own push. I just feel sorry that in both instances, he's the one in danger if things are pushed too far.
Man, I'm so glad I finally got a few hours to sit down and dive into another chapter for this story. I'm so looking forward to finding the time for the next one!
[Report This]Date: March 15 2025 12:20 PM Title: Callie vs. the Minimalist Mini
Ha!
I lay claim to the 100th review!!
Just to say how much I love this story a second time!!!
Haha!!!!
<3
[Report This]Date: March 15 2025 12:17 PM Title: Exposed
Holy shit, what a story. The fact I haven't left a review until now is criminal.
From beginning to end, I think you captured realistic and compelling characters, and involved them in such immersive and evocative size scenarios that it's stunning.
You really capture the perspective of someone at that size so well. From vibrations in the ground, to the sensation of being close to a big, to the differences in texture and sound in the environment. As writers in this field go, you probably paint the clearest picture in my head, hands down. Incredibly consistently, too!
But god, your character work. Everyone in this story is likeable, or at least interesting. Shit, even at her most evil, Kristie is fun to read. Speaking of (since I'm writing this review just after reading the last two chapters), Kristie and Monica's relationship is super interesting, and I love how they've turned out.
I wasn't sure exactly where they were headed, but the revelations over these last two chapters have been some of the best character work I've read on this site. Exploring Kristie's phychology, and why she did what she did to Duncan was super fascinating. And the way she and Monica relate in that moment was lovely. (And like, the Monica hiding Kristie behind her hair out of a sense of comfort was phenominal. Like I said, you write incredible size interactions like it's nothing.)
Then, this chapter, when it's revealed that Kristie has been a lesbian(?) the whole time, and hadn't realised until her time with Monica was super sweet. It really put a bow on her character for me. She seems like a very repressed and fragile girl, so it's no wonder she never realised her own feelings. The way she didn't realise what she felt for Duncan was simple platonic affection, cause she'd never had a friend like that before was a little heartbreaking. So she felt like that's what people meant when they talked about love, and so discarded the idea as stupid?? My heart, dude. And of course, it's interesting to see Monica being vulnerable like this. Seeing her let down her cold, authoratative mask and be open, then put it back on, but on her own terms? Stellar.
I should also mention Duncan and Callie's relationship, of course. They're so cute together, and the mutual understanding they build over the course of the story is wonderful. Callie's arc about growing her self-esteem and sort of breaking out of that tired, anxious shell she was in at the start has been great to read. Though speaking of Callie, holy shit.
I didn't expect her to actually be shrunk, but I'm super happy she was. I mean, rip to their established dynamic, but the new one is going to be amazing, I'm sure. You only got to touch on it at the end here, but Callie's bewilderment at seeing the world at Duncan's size was so good. And them finally being able to embrace each other normally? Being the same size? Incredible. The thought of her interacting with Ada and the others at tiny size? Irresistable. I cannot wait to see you unpack that in the next story. Bigs shrinking and seeing the world through tiny eyes is one of my favourite things, and I'm so happy it's happened in one of my favourite stories. Holy shit.
I should, of course, also mention Ada. Shy nerdy bigs will always catch my heart, and she was no exception. The exhibitionism chapter was incredibly hot, and I can't wait to see if Ada can end up with her own tiny down the line. Like Callie said, she's too cute not to! Also, her character in general is amazing, of course. It's interesting how her character mirrors Kristie, in a way. Ada also hadn't experienced a proper bond before, and so she confused what she was feeling with Duncan for love. I'm always happy when she's involved in a chapter, and I can't wait to see how she fits in to the next story! (I bet that doctor she's working with has something to do with all of this. Or maybe the main function of the nanites was a tracking device, and that's how the gang finds Duncan and Callie later? Hmmm.)
Again, I can't believe I haven't left any reviews on this story yet. If I had, I would've been able to go more in-depth about everything I loved when it was still fresh. Something that I will certainly be doing for every chapter moving forward. Your writing is too good not to.
Anyway, I love your work, this story rules, and I can't wait to see where it all goes next. (Tiny Callie! I'm still reeling.)
[Report This]Date: February 28 2025 11:45 PM Title: Exposed
When I saw that this was the last chapter, I wasn't sure what to expect. Was this going to be another cliffhanger, or was It Was Me somehow going to wrap up the entire story here? And the more I read, the more nervous I became about the latter option lol. But then I figured the story wasn't going to end here, and it turned out it was a cliffhanger.
And of course it is a very intriguing cliffhanger, I mean, holy shit, I was at the edge of my seat the entire last section of the chapter! Duncan finally meets Natasha again! The hide and seek with Natasha! The chase! The revelation that she wasn't involved in shrinking Duncan! Callie punching Natasha! The appearance of the one who's actually responsible! Callie shrinking. The last one may have been the most shocking, just in terms of its emotional impact. After so long of this power difference between Callie and Duncan, that instantly being erased and them now becoming equals, sort of, powerless together, really tugged at my heartstrings. Especially that description of him taking her in his arms for the first time ;-;
I particularly liked the faster pacing of the eventful last section, as compared to the more relaxing gentle parts of the story. If the next story is going to continue in the same vein, consider me hooked already! And what you wrote about it in the end notes increases my interest even further! Still, take your time, you deserve a break after such a long story (oops, guess you're writing a Downsizing spin-off now lol).
While it was the Duncan and Callie stuff that engaged me the most, suffice to say that Kristie and Monica also left me satisfied. When I first saw them together, I never thought that these two could get along, let alone fall in love! And I didn't imagine that I would sympathize with them after their actions, yet here we are. Their relationship feels not only plausible, but also actually cute and wholesome. You do a really good job of selling how characters find each other attractive. I liked everything they did here; it was nice to have some more quality smut before the ending. One detail that stands out to me for some reason: Monica finding it adorable that Kristie has a tiny curling iron, is itself adorable.
I ought to go into more detail here, but I can't delay this review any further. Just know that I have meant every word of praise I have had for this story; it has been an amazing ride from start to finish. I remember reading your reviews for the first time, I think it was on Neet of the Living Dead, and feeling disappointed when I saw that such a well-articulated and insightful reviewer didn't have any stories of their own. That went on for some months. Imagine my excitement when I saw the first chapter of Roomies in the most recent section! I knew it was going to be a damn good chapter, and it was. And that excitement has yet to die down lol
Date: February 26 2025 3:03 AM Title: Exposed
Aryion isn't just for vore, there's plenty of non-vore size content on there. But if you still don't want to post there that's fine.
[Report This]Date: February 18 2025 5:48 AM Title: Exposed
And here we are at the end! I enjoyed Roomies overall, but it felt a little unbalanced. The main story line is the romance between Callie and Duncan, and the climax for that occurs with the confession at the end of chapter 8. Then we have a remaining 1/3 of the story of falling action. Kristie makes a nice secondary plot, but she comes in late and lacks a big moment of her own; she just has a series of conversations. And the "real" plot that we presumably explore next book is so insignificant in this story as to be a non-factor.
I don't know if there was a better way to do it. You want time to show Duncan and Callie doing couple things. I think you tried to keep some level of conflict going with Callie's anxiety about her treatment of him, but Duncan is too chill for that to be a real source of uncertainty.
I don't think the last 1/3 of the story was bad by any means, but there was a sense of the plot slowing down. It felt a bit like you were delivering fan service while the remaining background plots wrapped up.
I did like your characters, even if it took me some time to warm up to Duncan. Callie's evolution was a joy to read, and the other women all have distinct vibes that make them interesting. I do want to see more of Ada's inner turmoil about this secret she's keeping, and her complicated role in this unconventional relationship her friends have.
I eagerly look forward to the next story!
Date: February 18 2025 5:32 AM Title: Ada vs. the Sultry Showoffs
I really like how you navigated Monica's feelings of regret. Kristie's acknowledgment that she knew Monica was going to back out and that she deliberately goaded Monica into it was a fascinating plot point, and I thought it made perfect sense. It's hard to redeem Kristie after what she's done, but I think she's most of the way there. She still needs to confront her victim.
The voyeur sex was awesome! I don't think I've ever seen that in a size story. I was really hoping Ada would join in. Very fun to see Callie explore her dominant side around people other than her tiny boyfriend.
Date: February 18 2025 5:20 AM Title: Duncan vs. the Diffident Domme
Kristie's backstory doesn't excuse her actions, but it does give context to them. Trauma begets trauma.
I am not very into foot stuff but it was well-written. I liked the details with the licking and biting - too often it's just the tiny lying there getting beat up by toes.
The issue of consent is an important one in their relationship, and it shows how much Callie cares that this was so troubling to her. I think it's a fine line to walk. Callie holds all the power. I don't think their sexy time should just be her bullying Duncan because that seems unhealthy long-term, but I think it certainly has a place in a rotation with more conventional interactions. Maybe Duncan can even take the reins sometime.
Date: February 18 2025 1:56 AM Title: Callie vs. the Delectable Date
The date was cute! It was really nice to see all of their friends come together for them, and that Duncan still has the ability to impress Callie at this size (with some help).
The chapter as a whole felt a little slice-of-life? Very formulaic. They plan the date, they go to the date, they have sex. The story doesn't advance much, but their relationship did develop a little.
Not that it's a bad formula to follow! The sex scene was worth waiting all these chapters. It was great to see Duncan conquer his past trauma.
Date: February 18 2025 1:48 AM Title: Duncan vs. the Resigned Roommate
Sweet justice served against Stillwell!
I loved Alyssia's no-stakes attempt at humiliation. And what an effort by Duncan! The whole scene was surprisingly hot! With Duncan and Callie getting together, what are all these other frustrated ladies going to do?
“I bet a squirrel would eat you alive" hahaha
Very satisfying to see them finally communicate!