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Review Requests: OFF
1,392 Public Reviews Given
2,269 Total Reviews Given
Review Style
In depth, detailed, and honest. I always point out the things I enjoyed most about an item, highlighting the strengths along with any weaknesses or glitches I might find. To me, it's important to let a writer know how something made you feel and what reactions you had when reading, not just the technical aspects.
I'm good at...
Characterization, punctuation, plot, and grammar.
Favorite Genres
Anything dark and angsty. Horror, erotica, dark dramas are usually my favorites.
Least Favorite Genres
Westerns, Sci-Fi, and comedy.
I will not review...
Poetry and non-fiction. I read these for pleasure alone. I don't know enough about the technicalities to give a decent or useful review. Any comments I send are always just based on my personal reactions as a reader.
Public Reviews
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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 13+ | (5.0)
Please bear with me. I am beyond words here and the tears streaming down my cheeks make it so difficult to type. I really don't know what to say. This was so beautiful and heartbreaking all at once. I have had dreamed of loved ones and know that happiness you speak of, the difference in them, and yes the profound sense of loss you feel all over again afterwards.

There really are no words for this. What you have is shared a story of something that happened to you in such a beautiful, powerful way. Really, I am in awe...and I am still crying. I'm so sorry for your loss, but thankful that you shared this experience.


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Review of My Plea  
Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Wow! This is such a familiar struggle for so many, but your emotions are so powerful. Reading this brought tears to my eyes, for I have sat where you are sitting. I've cried the same bitter tears, felt the same anguish, and yes...begged.

This is beautiful, honest, and to the point. It shows the vivid pain and suffering this disease causes to the people around it. Like many addictions, alchoholism doesn't just destroy the body fueling the poison. I think this would be an excellent piece to be read at AA and ALANON meetings.


*Idea*Notes & Suggestions*Idea*
Why is our home seem like the last place you want to see? Why does our home...or...Why is our home the Why is our home seem, reads a little awkward.

Note: *Note*Please remember that these are only my opinions as a reader. Feel free to use or ignore them as you feel best suits your story and personal style. You alone are the best judge of what works for you and the work of art you created!*Note* *Smile*

In Closing: This emotional plea was very moving. I wish you the best of luck and hope that your husband hears these urgent cries from your heart and gets the help he needs. *Heart*


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Review of The Guesthouse  
Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 18+ | (4.5)
Initial impressions:
Chilling, intense, and frighteningly real. This short story made me glad I never had to rent a room and confirms my suspicious nature! There is a reason our mothers warned us never to trust a stranger.

I liked the direction you took with this one. It kept me guessing what would happen next and kept me perched on the edge of my chair. The open ending sent a shudder straight down my spine! Great work. *Smile*

The characters:
I related to Antonia on many levels. She comes across as the average all American girl and believes in quality friends over quantity. I also chose a select few to grow close to, but unlike her, I assosicate with many. Anywho..she's starting off the exciting college experience and finds herself renting a room from Mr. Kearns. This amicable arrangement works well for her. She has her own space, but also finds he helps ease her lonliness. Trusting gal, isn't she?

Mr. Kearns comes across as a gentle old man just looking to supplement his income. He's rearely seen from or heard until the startling conclusion to this tale. Great way to keep em in the dark, SoCal!

Hillary serves as a catalyst for the reader's fear, as well as Antonia's. She's the friend all of us have, but shares a little too much information about a little urban legend growing in this town. Despite her best efforts, help comes a little too late!

Setting/Plot:
I liked the setting. It could be any number of college towns spread across the continent. It had that homey, exciting atmospehere and you never really see it coming. You described the setting well and they tied together with the plot in a perfect package.

Your pacing was well executed, building up the suspense slowly, keeping the reader on their toes and guessing. This was a fast paced and enjoyable read. Sometimes the things we fear the most are under our noses all along.

*Idea*Suggestions for improvement:*Idea*
The beginning started out kind of slow to me and felt irrelevant. The first two paragraphs about the drom arrangement aren't needed as none of the sotry takes place there. I think it would draw the readers in more and start with more intensity if you began the story with the third paragraph. When she first saw the guesthouse, she knew it would be perfect...

Also, i don't know if you are aware of this or not, but you shift from past tense to present tense several times in the story. Especially toward the end. These sudden shifts can be a little jarring to the reader. Just my opinion, but I would pick one or the other.

Technical/Grammatical Errors:
None noticed. *Thumbsup*

Note: *Note*Please remember that these are only my opinions as a reader. Feel free to use or ignore them as you feel best suits your story and personal style. You alone are the best judge of what works for you and the work of art you created!*Note* *Smile*

*Star*Overall Opinion & Final Notes:*Star* This was an excellent tale and well worth the read. I wish we could have hung around a little longer and seen what happened but that is the great part. You let us ponder her fate and squirm, leaving us with the notion that the killer is still out there...lurking and waiting. *Worry*

Reading your work is always a pleasure. Thanks for sharing!


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and host of "A MidSummer Night's Scream horror extravaganza!
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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Thank you so much for entering the "Invalid Item contest! *Kiss*

*Note5*First Impressions: Wow! This was both different and unique to me! In a good way. Great concept.

*Note5*Did it follow the guidelines of the contest? Yes. *Smile*

*Note5*Characters, plot, and setting: Our protagonist was an interesting one, to say the least. Scary, but some of his thoughts made sense to me, especially when he compared licorice and labels. Everything in life is so subjective and opinion based. He seems intelligent, studious, and clever. Probably why that saying exsists about using caution...still waters run deep.

I liked the mall as a setting. I too enjoy watching people and observing their habits and quirks in different environments. Though it's been my experience that malls are full of obnoxious people.

The plot was clever. I liked sitting down to this interview of sorts and getting an intimate glimpse into the mind of a reluctantly labeled serial killer! Well done!

*Idea*Suggestions for Improvement:*Idea*
Take a little walk, just a little one, down a path you've never down before. never been down before Or traveled...as is, it seems to be missing a word.

*Note* I would like to have known what, if anything triggered this. When these urges started for our protagonist..subtle things to give him a little more depth.

Therein lays the challenge. Therein lays my drive. lies

In the end, who am I? I’m just an ordinary, average guy who's found the one thing he's excels at he excels at

*Note*Any suggestions made are the sole opinion of myself as a reader. Please feel free to take what you feel helps and ignore the rest. You and you alone are the best judge of what works best for your style and the work of art you have created! *Smile**Note*

*Note5*Parting Thoughts:
Chilling insight into a creative mind! I really enjoyed this story! Best of luck in the contest!

Rating Summary
Technical: *Star**Star**Star**Star**Halfstar*
Content: *Star**Star**Star**Star**Star*
Overall:
*Star**Star**Star**Star**Halfstar*


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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 13+ | (5.0)
This catchy title drew me right in! You've created a fascinating poll here, because all of us have endured hard times when someone felt the need to comfort with these cliches! I like the wide variety of options you've given your readers as well as the introduction to the poll.

Me, I had to vote for all of the above. It always irratates me at the moment, but never in hind sight. In the end, I always appreciate that someone took the time to listen, even if I felt they didn't quite understand what I was going through. Often we don't and all we can do is empathize and offer some gereralized form of comfort.

Very interesting results. I would love to know why some people voted the way they did.

Best wishes!
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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: E | (4.5)
*Shock* Oh my goodness! This story was so funny, I could barely catch my breath! I love the simple quick tone you use. you gave just enough detail to let us know what was going on while still letting us envision everything clearly.

The unique cast of characters makes this story a true delight! Edi is a carefree witch, Mark, the straightlaced detective, and Nate, the reincarnated duck! How could you go wrong with such a unique and quirky cast?

I really loved the date. I had the perfect image of Nate, on a leash, quacking, as these two simmered in stunned dismay! Talk about a communication misunderstanding! What was really great, was how everything came together at the end. I was in stitches imagining Nate in a tux. *Laugh* Priceless!

*Idea*Notes & Suggestions*Idea*

Edi was not quite as skilled at hiding her disappointed. I think you menat disappointment.


Note: *Note*Please remember that these are only my opinions as a reader. Feel free to use or ignore them as you feel best suits your story and personal style. You alone are the best judge of what works for you and the work of art you created!*Note* *Smile*

In Closing: I would highly recommend this short story to anyone looing for a good laugh. It's clever, amusing and well written. I'm glad to see it has a ribbon. It definately deserves it! *Thumbsup* Keep up the great work!


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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: E | (5.0)
Beautiful! This has such a homey down to earth feel about it and stirs up fond memories of my own youth! Ohio winters are rough, but nothing comapred to those that hit Maine and New York.

I loved the descriptions of the snow fort and your kitchen. These pulled me in and are what evoked my own memories. My bedroom at my parents house was unheated too. In fact, I remember mornings where snow blew under the small crack in the windowsill and drawing small pictures in the frosty pane.

I think a lot of people will enjoy this story for many reasons. You keep it simple and clean, letting the story tell itself without bogging it down with fanciful words or too many details. It's relateable and brings with it that warm feeling you speak of. A perfect pick for a hot summer day!

I could easily imagine the red cheeks and bundled forms of three boys playing in the snow and trying to shovel out of that massive storm. Thank you so much for sharing this heartwarming tale.

*Idea*Notes & Suggestions*Idea* I've read your writing before and am a big fan. I have no complaints about the story itself but the color is a little off putting. It fits the theme well, but to me was an unecessary distraction.

Note: *Note*Please remember that these are only my opinions as a reader. Feel free to use or ignore them as you feel best suits your story and personal style. You alone are the best judge of what works for you and the work of art you created!*Note* *Smile*

In Closing: You are a talented writer and I always enjoy reading your work. I wish the weather wasn't so warm. You really got me wanting a steaming mug of hot chocolate now! *Laugh* Keep up the great work!


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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 18+ | N/A (Review only item.)
Whew Mara! Turning up the summer heat are we? *Smirk* I turn my back for five minutes and you cook up something naughty and delicious! I absolutely ADORE your color scheme for this contest. Black and purple...sheer perfection. *Heart* The font helps make the diefferent sections stand out and everything is clearly defined. *Thumbsup*

Your prizes are to die for, darling! I think with the creative leeway you have given, and generous word count, your contest will be a smashing sucess, as is everything else you do. I wish you the best of luck in your contest. I'll be standing by with the buckets of ice should any contestants overheat!

Great work!
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Review of Us again  
Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 13+ | (4.0)
Hey there Angel Army Adoptee! *Bigsmile* Hope your flight went well! I'm still hanging out in your port, like a pesty summer gnat. *Laugh*

My first impressions of this story were good ones. You have an amazing amount of potential and this is a moving and emotional tale of family, forgiveness, and discovering one's salvation. It moved me to tears several times and made my heart swell with joy as we hit the final bittersweet note. Strange that I felt envy for our wayward Irishman in that moment, but I did.

You infuse your work with emotions that draw a reader in, making them invest themselves in your character. That is so important to do! *Thumbsup* I love the messages I find concealed in all your writings and this one is no different. It's powerful and makes us sit back and think. Also, I think many readers would be able to relate to the conflict and doubt. We all have times in our lives...things that knock us down and make us not want to get back up. We all have our scars and moments of hard indifference.

Despite my personal praises, I do have a few suggestions. As your mentor and friend, I'm here to help you in any way I can, as well as encourage you.

*Idea*Notes & Suggestions*Idea*

Formatting. It makes it alot easier to read stories on WDC if you place an extra line break between paragraphs. Its a lot easier on the eyes. I know a lot of readers who will click out of an item without reading it if it is not formatted that way. Just a small request, but it will help both you and your reviewers. *Bigsmile*

*Bullet*The doors of the private cathedral opened with a crash, and a golden eyed man walked up the center Aisle. aisle. I don't think it needs capped.

*Bullet*He held something delicately between his Small note here. While adverbs don't bother me, a lot of edtors and people on the site will frown upon them. As your mentor, I feel I should point this tidbit out. A lot of times, you can come up with a stronger decriptive word instead. Try to avoid this short cut and relace those adverbs with more active, stronger decriptions.
Example: He cradled something between his hands
See how it gives a better visual picture and cuts out a few words in the process?

*Shock* Whoa! You grabbed my attention with the bird. Excellent hook!

*Bullet* Unfortunately she looked at him just as he reached down. comma after Unfortunately

*Bullet*Blushing brightly he itched I won't mention that brightly could be replaced with an actual hue. *Wink* However, there should be a comma after brightly.

*Bullet* Let's be us again He could feel God talking to him, A few things here. You're missing a period after the word 'again.' Secondly, it really helps avoid confusion in a reader if you set thoughts in italics. This also helps the text to stand out. It should also be on a line of its own each time God speaks to him. I know this means you will have to go all the way through your story again, but the effect will be well worth it.
To do this on WDC you place this before the text you want highlighted { i } and this after it { /i } BUT without the spaces in the brackets. *Blush* I hope that helps. You can find all the HTML tags for emoticons, colors, fonts, and more in the drop down menu on the upper left hand side of your screen. Click on Site Tools, and the WritingML Help in the box that drops down. These are beneficial tools for the site.

*Bullet*A ten year old boy came home from school, proudly showing his mom the diploma he had gotten for learning all of his scriptures in order. She smiled proudly You use eager here twice. Maybe try eager to show his mom?

There is a tense conflict when describing the dance. Make sure you put it into past tense like the rest of the story and his memories. The same with his memories when he is eighteen. These all need to be past tense.

*Bullet*When he turns onto his road, he sees around 20 emergency vehicles and his house is demolished. Suggestion: he saw emergency vehicles surrounding the demolished remains of his home. The number is not important and losing it will heighten the impact. This might also help give you an example of the tense to use.

*Bullet*Her hands were around where the cross Passive voice. A suggestion for tightening and impact: Her hands still clutched the cross

*Cry* Oh how sad! I can't imagine losing a parent, let alone in such a tragic manner. You made me cry here!

*Bullet* .' At this Something strange popped up there between your period and At.

*Bullet*God's soothing
words trying to sway him to no effect. Soothing snuck onto another line there for some reason. *Worry* Sneaky trick There is also something off about the wording here. Maybe try: God's attempt to sway him with soothing words had no effect.

Ok. The part where he took the assassin job also needs put into past tense. The shifts can be distracting and confusing. I would hate for someone to be detracted from the enthralling tale you are telling here! The part where he is thirty and laying in bed was done well! *Thumbsup* That is the tense you need.

*Bullet*Angrily he brushed them comma after Angrily.

*Bullet* The man's struggles ceased
entirely, and he whispered along with God: This is another place where your text jumped to a new line.

*Bullet* Finally he was at the point where the last place left was the cathedral. Passive and a little wordy. Suggestion: He reached the point where the cathedral was the only place left.

*Bullet* Growling the man lit a cigarette then made his way there Comma after growling Also, where is "there?" Made his way to the church?

*Bullet*A startled bird fluttered from the feet of the large Jesus statue and startled the man into dropping the cigarette and brought his eyes up the height of the statue. I would start a new sentence after cigarette. His gaze traveled up the height of the statue.

*Bullet* Turning swiftly he ran out, a smoldering cigarette butt lay forgotten on the floor. a little tightening will add impact. Suggestion: Turning heel, he ran out, his smoldering cigarette butt forgotten on the floor.


Note: *Note*Please remember that these are only my opinions as a reader. Feel free to use or ignore them as you feel best suits your story and personal style. You alone are the best judge of what works for you and the work of art you created!*Note* *Smile*

In Closing: It may look like a lot of suggestions, but really its not! Don't let them daunt you. This was an amazing story and was extremely well written. The tale you tell is gripping and one with a profound message. I teared up several times through this man's emotional journey. I believe this is a piece many on WDC would enjoy reading.

Please feel free to let me know if you make any changes as I would love to come back and give this a higher rate!

Lastly, I really enjoy your work. I am so glad to have this opportunity to work with you and read your offerings. You are a writer with a tremendous amount of talent and potential Keep writing!

*Heart*,
your mentor

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Review of Foster Boy  
Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 18+ | (4.5)
Thank you so much for entering the "Invalid Item contest! *Kiss*

*Note5*First Impressions: This story of crime and vengance has many twists and turns! Nothing is as it appears to be in the beginging and I loved the elements of the crime boss...the "human traffiking" the battle between good and evil, past and present. It made for a riveting read! *Thumbsup* I was also happy for the ending the children did have...you had me sweating bullets there!

*Note5*Did it follow the guidelines of the contest? Yes and I was pleasantly surprised by who the actual villain was in this story. Well played!

*Note5*Characters, plot, and setting: There are three main players in this tale. Okubo, a crime boss who has his hands in some very shady buisiness ventures. Kondo, a police captain/detective and the not so honorable Judge Tanabe. Their lives are indelibly tied and as we follow their stories, we are led to a breathtaking conclusion! Hold on to your seats, for this is one bumpy ride!

The plot is twisted, fast paced and yet smooth, like a roller coaster. It reads like a great mystery thriller and enough detail of the setting is given as to envelop the reader without overwhelming them. I didn't notice any major flaws pertaining to the story in these apsects.

*Idea*Suggestions for Improvement:*Idea*

Coming from an impoverished village in Thailand nearly a year ago, they’d been bought and brought to Japan. This can read a little confusing. Saying they had been purchased and brought might keep a reader from stumbling.

“Thank you and I also truly appreciate your warning me on the raid. This might read smoother as: warning me of the raid.

*Bullet*I was a little confused when Kondo appeared. It seemed to me he came out of no where with no explaination.

Tanabe screamed long and loud as the curved edge move at incredible speed moved

After telling his men to tend to Tanabe wounds Tanabe's

*Note*Any suggestions made are the sole opinion of myself as a reader. Please feel free to take what you feel helps and ignore the rest. You and you alone are the best judge of what works best for your style and the work of art you have created! *Smile**Note*

*Note5*Parting Thoughts: Well written and engaging. I really enjoyed this story and the way you tied it all together in the end. It has a unique feel and plot, making it a refreshing read. Thanks for your entry and good luck!


Rating Summary
Technical:*Star**Star**Star**Star**Halfstar*
Content: *Star**Star**Star**Star**Halfstar*
Overall:
*Star**Star**Star**Star**Halfstar*

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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: E | (4.0)
Weather in Ohio is insane too, but I admit, I often wince in sympathy for New Yorkers when winter rolls around! I like how you included an anecdote before the recipie. It gives it a sort of Chicken Soup for the Chef's Soul feel. *Smile* I know all too well how families can warp tales...mine is notorious for spinning yarns about dead relatives that cause more than one eyebrow to hitch. *Laugh*

I would have liked a little description of the bread itself. Is is sweet, rich, light, heavy? I've never had pumpkin bread, just rolls, and to a tenative taster, the description of a recipie could make or break it.

I think this would go great in an anthology of family stories and recipies...I have several items like that lining my shelves, as I love to cook. Yours would be a great addition. Thanks for sharing and best wishes!

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& the "Invalid Item
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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 13+ | (5.0)
Well said, Harry! I think your thoughts reflect the sentiments of many today. The world has changed so much over the years, but these past eight years heve been staggering! I do not buy for one moment that all the reasons behind our economic collapse are the backlash of 9/11. Nor do I like having all of my rights stripped away systematically under the guise of PC BS just because something might be offensive to someone else. That is why it is called freedom of speech, right? What about freedom to practice a religion of your choice? Or even the simple pursuit of happiness?

You have pointed out the sytematic abuse of power and removal of rights that has occured without fail under this administration and done so in a powerful way. I am glad their reign comes to an end, but I fear it may be too late to undo all that has been done. Greed and hunger for power have replaced the good, honest men that founded our country, the ones who fought so hard to grant us liberation and make this a place people sought refuge in. I just watched the John Adamas series last month and thought how sick our forefathers would be if they could see the corruption and violation of our Constitution and Bill of Rights.

This was an excellent and thought provoking piece. *Thumbsup*
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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: ASR | (4.0)
This poll grabbed my interest right away. What a great topic and way to guage the reading market out there! I used to dabble in horror as a teen and though I still read and watch the genre with avid interest, have been toying with diving back in.

Psychological was a great option, as were many others, but I feel you left out the one thing most of us seek when perusing the shelves for a good read. The chill/thrill factor. The stories that make us shudder and ponder sleeping with the light on. I know when I am reading a horror story, I want that exhilerating rush of fear. John Saul's early works are what got me hooked on this genre and to this day, I am still scared of dolls! In my opinion, his early works out scare and shine King at his best!

Another good option to add might be fresh/unique plots. So many stories fall into the trappings of cliche endings and beginnings. We are all delighted when we stuble across a fresh twist on things. *Smile*

Overall, I thought you had a great poll and it was fascinating seeing some of the results for this one! Keep up the great work and keep penning!

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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 18+ | (5.0)
Initial impressions: *Shock* Again, this author's work leaves me speechless. I will be honest with you. I almost didn't make it through this story. It took everything I had to keep reading. This is a true testament to the talent behind the writing force. I am absolutely terrified of spiders and you took them and twisted them into something so much more sinister...it was unbearable! I felt the urge to keep brushing myself off and scan the room as I cringed, sinking into my chair. If I have nightmares tonight, I am blaming you, BobCat! *Laugh*

The characters: Bastien and his wife Simone were very easy to relate to and follow through this spine tingling journey. A loving magical air surrounded this couple as they enjoyed their honeymoon together. The real stars of this story though are the savage creatures with clicking legs that emerge when the lights go out!

Setting/Plot: This was extremely well done. As the happy couple's world falls down around them, I could taste the dust, feel the panic, hear the building twist and creak. You play with all five senses and it makes for an intense read!

My heart broke for the tender moment the couple shared in the dark. My pain quickly turned to fear as you introduce one of my phobias with a chilling twist. This is the kind of setting and plot that will have readers squirming, shuddering, twisting, and most importantly glued to the screen. The action and suspense were handled skillfully. No complaints in this department! *Thumbsup*

*Idea*Suggestions for improvement:*Idea* None. I thought this was an amazing tale that will probably keep me up tonight!

Technical/Grammatical Errors:
Try to watch those dialouge tags, as I pointed out in the last review. *Smile*

Note: *Note*Please remember that these are only my opinions as a reader. Feel free to use or ignore them as you feel best suits your story and personal style. You alone are the best judge of what works for you and the work of art you created!*Note* *Smile*

*Star*Overall Opinion & Final Notes:*Star* I would recommend Mouthful of Ashes to anyone looking for a gripping and well-written tale. A horrifying hit! *Thumbsup*


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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: E | (4.0)
Initial impressions: This is very raw and powerful, an indepth gaze into the most imtimate musings of your soul. As I read through these words, I could relate on a profound level. The pain love brings is all too familiar, as is the hope. I got the sense of a forbidden love of sorts, where you live for the mere moment, however precious and few the two of you steal together.

You convey a wide spectrum of emotions, from sorrow and pain, to the beauty we find in joy and hope. I loved the description of the mountain and the exhileration of the hope you felt...and how it slowly fades, slipping back into something tame and more familiar.


*Idea*Suggestions for improvement:*Idea* I couldn't help but wonder what this woman looks like. Just a bit of curiousity. *Smile*

Technical/Grammatical Errors:
Its pray I am forever trapped prey

I am glad for the pain, for it has taught me what true love really mean. means

I wander down dark, seep paths unknown. Did you mean steep?

Within her walls I am safe, from my self and the out side myself--outside

Note: *Note*Please remember that these are only my opinions as a reader. Feel free to use or ignore them as you feel best suits your story and personal style. You alone are the best judge of what works for you and the work of art you created!*Note* *Smile*

*Star*Overall Opinion & Final Notes:*Star*

You write with a vast amount of passion. I found this story compelling, gripping, the kind that holds you in its thrall and speaks to the heart and soul of the reader. I think this is something we can all relate to on one level or another. Some of the analogies and descriptions you use were stunning. I loved the parts about wandering the dark, uncharted paths and the sheer emotion you poured into this piece of art.

Welcome to WDC! *Bigsmile* I look forward to reading more of your work in the future.


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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 13+ | (5.0)
This is a very personal and poignant tale about one woman's struggle to survive and the inner conflict waging within her. My heart broke as I read about the horror she suffered at her husband's hands and that tiny voice that kept urging her to stay.

So many women must struggle with the same concept, the conflicting messages we get from religion, family, and friends. How can we be expected to hold up our end of for better or worse and til death do us part when all of the other vows are not upheld. Love, honor, cherish...yet, so many of us have pushed ourselves, not wanting to break our end of the promise we made to God before our family and friends. It seems so tragic. Love does not hurt, batter, and bruise. It does not would with words or fists. *Cry*

I am so sorry to hear what you had to endue, but greateful that you got away and found some peace in your life. Your story is chilling and made me shiver and cry, but hopefully it shows others they are not alone and there is light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you for sharing this tale of bravery, and strength.


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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: E | (4.5)
Chilling! I had to rub down the goosebumps as I read this. I love taking something as innocent as a toy and twisting it around into something dark and sinister. This also plays into the innocence of children, something most of us love and cherish. Nothing is as uplifiting as the laughter and smile of a young child at play.

You did a great job keeping things clean and your wording was great! I only have two small suggestions:

He should have left a long time ago, he was still able to then, You may want to consider using a semicolon after "ago" or starting a new sentence with "he" instead of the comma. These are seperate thoughts and sentences.

Same here:

He liked the wait, it gave him time to think and reflect.

Other than that, you have a great thing going here and this was a fantastic read! The open ending leaves us to wonder what this mysterious force is, and leaves the reader with a heavy sense of unease. Great work! *Thumbsup*

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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: E | (5.0)
Excellent story Jaye! I think so many of us can relate to Dick's trials and trubulations as a writer. He had the passion, the drive, the determination, yet all along, one key element was missing. There's really no magic element of sucess as a writer. I believe it is a combination of many things, but you hit one key, the most vital one on the head here. The most memorable movies and books are ones that made us feel as a reader. One that enveolps us and makes us feel a part of the writer's world.

I smiled, watching him flit around, trying to feel out the market. That is the funny thing. Some people like to laugh, others like to cry or swoon, and others like to feel strong chills or shudders of disgust. There is an audience for every story, and that is why it is so important to write from the heart. One of my favorite quotes is from Joey Adams. "Come make me laugh, make me cry--just make me feel alive!"

Not only was this fun to read, but it offers valuable advice to any potential writer. Your style and execution were flawless. Very clean cut and crisp. *Thumbsup* Well done!
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Review of Crooked Carousel  
Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: E | (5.0)
Lady Kiarra,

Hi and welcome to WDC! *Smile* I hope you are enjoying your experience here and finding your way around alright!

You may be new to the site, but not to writing. That much shows in your careful word choice and the way you craft them together. I love the even, languid flow of this piece and the lovely rhyme scheme. It has such a beautiful and meloncholic feel to it. Absolutely wonderful! I have no suggestions for improvement, but please do keep writing and sharing! *Bigsmile*

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Review of The Last Laugh  
Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Wow. This story was one that I couldn't look away from! It has such a strong ring of truth to it, that I can't help but wonder if this is based on actual experience? The characters are strong, memorable and well developed, as was your intense and riveting plot! *Thumbsup*

This is the kind of thing you almost expect to read about when dealing with the rich and elite. So many kids are pawned off on nannies or raised by staff...yet the mother's clear favoritisim for her son and marked disdain for her daughter were heartbreaking to read. Children are innocent, despite their parent's flaws and indiscretions. I yearned to comfort this little girl who strived so hard just to feel worthy of some scrap of love and attention from her mother. *Sad*

I thought maybe when her brother went off to military school, that things would change. They didn't. They only got worse. Her mother was cold, distant, heartless, and suicidal. The Queens response upon waking from her coma made my jaw hit the floor! And the incident at Justin's baby shower....oh my.

I like how you build the suspense and show the revolving dynamics of this family as the years pass by. The borther took on the mother;s role of being horrid, probably from years of witnessing it as a child...it becomes ingrained. You slowly reveal the female protagonist's origins in a way that read like a mystery, keeping the reader on your hook. I suspected as much might be true, but I won't ruin it in a public review. *Wink*

I did notice one typo here, in the third to last paragraph:
It was easier to resent me, even hat me, hate


This was very well written and such an intense emotional read. Thank you so much for the priviledge of reading your work! You have great talent. *Smile*

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Review of The Photograph  
Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Such a bittersweet and poignant story you have written here! I love how a mere stranger started a family tradtion and the fierce devotion of the father as he clings to that misshapen frame. Those small imperfections are often what make things perfect in a parent's eyes, especially once our children are older or grown. That's enough to make me want to tear up...and until they have kids, they will never understand the sentimental value we attach to their childhood gifts. *Smile*

My heart ached for him at the end. It saddens me to think of him sitting in that home, all alone, wishing he could spend those times with his family. He made such a powerful point. Just because the body is incapable of doing certain things anymore , it does not mean the mind or heart are. My grandmother was a prideful and stubborn woman, who maintained her independence til the day she died. She couldn;t drive anymore, and had meals delivered, and we did her grocery shopping etc...but it meant so much to her that she was able to live at home, on her own, in her house.

It really is sad that his family doesn't do something to make it so he can go on those excursions. A simple ramp and widened doorways...something. At any rate, this was powerful writing and as you can tell, it struck an emotional chord! Well done! *Thumbsup*

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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: E | (5.0)
It feels like winter is pulling that stunt this year! I am so ready for warm, sunny days to come and stay!

I loved the descriptions you used in this story and some brilliant lines that speckled it, like Crayola drawing her muse from the wildflowers and the conflict of cool and warm battling for control over the day. *Thumbsup* You played off of all of the senses well, sight and touch being the strongest. I felt as if I were there, ready to race for cover.

I also liked the suspense you built as silence fell and the front approached. I admit, you had me guessing there, because I thought it would w a tornado or a thunderstorm! *Smile* This was very well written and a visual delight to read!

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Review of I Was A Tiger  
Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Harry,

This poem was heartbreaking. *Sad* I remember this story hitting the news, and many other cases like it. I think people forget the instincts bred into these animals for generations and tend to think of them as nothing more than a form of amusement. walls and glass dividers give people a false sense of security. Though I am guilty of enjoying the chance to see all the animals at the zoo I would never otherwise get a chance to see...it always does make me a bit sad.

Taking a close look at many of the animals, you can see their spirit is broken. The cats pace their cages, half of the time panting from stress. Its heartbreaking when they turn and are destroyed because as you point out so eloquently, it is through no fault of their own. No living being wants to be caged and put on display.

You've made some wonderful points here and written from the anima;'s perspective, it had an especially poignant effect. *Thumbsup*

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Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 18+ | (5.0)
As a fellow klutz, I had to laugh because I can relate to the endless "graceful" moments that occur in our lives. I mean, it takes talent to be able to fall up the stairs, right? *Laugh*

I had to laugh about your swimming excursion! Oh I would have died from embarrassment on the spot! *Shock* Swimsuits are nasty things to begin with, always tugging to cover this cheek or that, always making sure bits and pieces are still covered. I think you lived every woman's worst clothing nightmare here.

*Laugh* I especially liked the blue dot among a sea of people image. How mortifying! You told this story with skill, keeping it short and to the point. That just added to the hilarity of the moment. Although I'm laughing, my heart does go out to you. Have you written about the date yet? If so, I would love to read it!

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Review of Her Gilded Prison  
Review by Adriana Noir
Rated: 18+ | (5.0)
Thank you so much for entering the "Invalid Item contest! *Kiss* This realistic story was one intense ride!

*Note5*First Impressions: Awesome title. Even if it wasn't for the contest, something like that would have drawn me right in. You played the horror of Alessa's situation out well. I liked the irony of the picture perfect life and the picture perfect wife combined with the secret torment that played out behind closed doors. It reminded me a lot of a story I have been sitting on that shares the same name as the first half of our contest! It just goes to show that things like abuse know no boundaries...in fact, I'd say from past history that the rich and famous tend to get away with so much more!

*Note5*Did it follow the guidelines of the contest? Yes! *Smile*

*Note5*Characters, plot, and setting: Marco, Marco, Marco. Cool, handsome, suave, rich...and lethal. This was a chilling character. He's capable of showing two faces. The charitible player, charming and doting husband...and the monster he is in the privacy of his own home. I winced as Alessa tried to keep up appearaces at the party, despite the brusing bite of fingers on the nape of her neck. He knows her weak spots and uses them against her as all manipulating pieces of scum will!

Alessa, bless her soul, tries to get away many times. Her brother's life is on the line, bringing her back to her nightmare. Still, her mind whirls for a way to get out. She fears for her daughter, she fears for herself. She is no fool and is under no delusions of him ever turning a new leaf. Great characters!

*Idea*Suggestions for Improvement:*Idea*

Maybe add an extra line between paragraphs so it is easier to read on the screen. Other than that, none!

*Note*Any suggestions made are the sole opinion of myself as a reader. Please feel free to take what you feel helps and ignore the rest. You and you alone are the best judge of what works best for your style and the work of art you have created! *Smile**Note*

*Note5*Parting Thoughts: You got me with the end. I am so glad you took that route. It really drove the impact of the story home and points out that even leaving a situation like this doesn;'t always yield the best results. She took advantage of the brief window of opportunity she had, she did all that she could, yet with a man like Marco, and his extent of power and pull..well yep. You nailed it on the head!

Rating:
Techinical: *Star**Star**Star**Star**Star*
Content: *Star**Star**Star**Star**Star*
Overall: *Star**Star**Star**Star**Star*
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