The first time I read These Constant Stars, I remember sitting still for minutes after, just staring at nothing, trying to process everything. It completely blew me away. I didn’t expect to have that same reaction months later when the second fic came out, but I honestly did. I genuinely love these fics so much. The writing is beautiful and allows the characters to shine through the entire plot.
I love Louis’ character arc in the first fic. He’s introduced to us as a brash, cocky, anti-romantic who expects great things in all aspects of his life. He’s interesting, but not someone most people would seek out as a best friend. He’s almost one dimensional.
It’s poetic that it takes Harry, outwardly almost a completely opposite person, to draw out the depth of Louis’ character. Harry, with his facial piercings, tats, and all around punk awesomeness, really creates a safe space for Louis. He doesn’t push Louis to be anyone but himself, and he really allows Louis to blossom.
By the end of the first fic, Louis’ a real person. He has layers and a soul, and it’s all because Harry supported him. Harry didn’t *make* it happen, he just offered an environment where Louis could be Louis. Beautiful!
Part II is EVERYTHING. I love that we get to see Harry’s perspective on almost all the events of part I, and get to learn more about their relationship. I’m also obsessed with how much we get to learn about Harry! He’s such a gorgeous person (in every definition).
Their time apart was really interesting to me. It was painful and of course I was always anxious for them to have time together, but I think my favorite scene in both fics is when Harry thinks Louis isn’t going to be able to spend time with him, and then Louis appears in the middle of the night. The love, emotion, and Harry’s sensitivity in that scene is so powerful. I think that moment really changed their lives.
These fics are so wonderful. They have everything! Great chemistry, funny moments, drama, character growth, and love... so much love!