Title: Take Refuge in What You Know
Fandom: Star Trek Reboot
Pairing: Kirk/Spock
Categories: Angst, Romance, Drama, Academy Era AU
Length: Super Epic (120,334 words)
Warnings: None

Author on LJ: N/A
Author Website: CorpusInvictus

Author’s Summary:
Written for the Star Trek XI Kink Meme prompt: "AU - Kirk has moved into a apartment/house and wants to get to know his neighbors. He meets his neighbor Spock, a loner who suffers from extreme agoraphobia. Kirk thinks he's beautiful enigma."

Review:   

This story deals with some heavy issues, and the author does an excellent job handling the mental health concerns in a sensitive and realistic way. In the wake of a traumatic event, Spock has hidden himself away from the world. As the new tenant in the building, Kirk is curious about his reclusive neighbor. When at last they meet, Kirk is immediately drawn to Spock, reaching out to him and pursuing him determinedly. His brash impulsivity is well-balanced with deep caring and patience as he helps Spock emerge from the prison of his own making.

The romance is a slow build, developing believably and naturally from first meeting to happy ending. While Kirk plays a huge role in helping Spock to overcome his agoraphobia, it's not portrayed as Kirk "fixing" Spock, but rather, supporting him as Spock gains the confidence and learns a way to make a difference for himself.

All of the characterizations were perfect, from Kirk and Spock to Bones as the gruff best friend and Gaila as the fun-loving, free-spirited gossip maven and unofficial love doctor.

This story was beautifully written and absolutely excellent in every way. Highly recommended!

Take Refuge in What You Know