"Home Is Where the Heart Is" by Steph

Recommendation: Steph's "Home Is Where the Heart Is"

Today's recommendation is a fic that all of you should already be excited to read, because it was written by one of our Best Bet authors, the wonderful Steph. "Home Is Where the Heart Is" is another great distraction from the angst we're currently seeing on the show. While still exploring the emotional side of Patrick and Robin's relationship, it provides a gentler means for Patrick to think about his feelings. Even more exciting, it allows us to see more of Patrick's family and expands his character's somewhat limited backstory.

The fic opens with Robin stumbling upon an obviously upset Patrick, who has just learned that his maternal grandmother has died. Instead of pushing Robin away, Patrick allows her to comfort him, especially after a tense conversation with his father. Even more amazing, when Robin decides that she's going with him to the funeral, Patrick lets her in instead of shutting her out. As Robin helps Patrick cope with the loss of one of his last real connections to his mother, Patrick begins to realize how much Robin really means to him.

Along with letting us see a new emotional side to Patrick through his growing feelings for Robin, "Home Is Where the Heart Is" also shows us more about Patrick's mother's family. We meet several of his relatives, whose sharp observations about his relationship with Robin help him to understand how much he cares for her. Steph also uses Patrick's grandmother's house as both a great setting for major scenes in the story and a metaphor for the love and connection he feels for a part of his family that seems so distant to him.

Overall, the story is carefully crafted and beautifully written, and those looking for a story that has an interesting and original plotline as well as great characterizations will definitely appreciate "Home Is Where the Heart Is." Thanks for sharing this great story with us, Steph! If you like the story, which can be read here, as much as I do, please don't hesitate to share your thoughts and feedback with her!

Happy Reading!
DD