Reviewing with River

I have grown as a writer/reviewers over my years here @Wdc. I do not do grammar anymore, unless it is impacting the readability and/or flow of the story. But, I must admit that the over use of gerunds still irritates the hell out of me. (deep breath...let it go)

I recently got a review where the reviewer seemed irritated that I had even bothered to write. She did not like my interpretation of the prompt, the characters, or the conclusion. I wasn't hurt that she didn't 'get' it, but I was a bit sad that all the responsibility for that was put onto me. (A bit too much alcohol on that desk maybe?) That every story is not for everyone is an important thing to remember when reviewing. Because I do not 'get-it' doesn't mean that no one will.

With that in mind, I like to focus on themes and messages, flow and grace. These are the things that bring a story into the feel zones for me.

There is always something nice that can be said.
And, there's always someway that the story can be helped by mildly phrased critiques.

Balance is important, I do not want to discourage any writer from trying again.

Vickie___________________________________________