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Review Requests: OFF
1,485 Public Reviews Given
1,578 Total Reviews Given
Review Style
I look for a good hook at the beginning and like stories that "hit the ground running". Good plots with a theme, strong characters with an emotional impact, moving dialogue, sensory descriptions, clear communication and words with a purpose are strong points of a good story.
I'm good at...
knowing a good story when I read one. I like to read as much as I like to write, maybe more. I will let you know when a sentence just does not make sense to me, and I will try to give you my opinion on how to make it better.
Favorite Genres
biographical, family, drama, mystery, comedy, nature, young adult
Least Favorite Genres
sci-fi, erotica, fantasy, mythology
Favorite Item Types
short stories, essays, fiction & non-fiction
Least Favorite Item Types
novels
I will not review...
novels...sorry, no time
Public Reviews
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Review of Cafe Kringle  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Good Morning,

A story with a message. Hopefully, this will never happen to the "real" Santa Claus. It is scary to think that crime could travel that far.

Your twist at the end gave it just the right touch, although sad for the reindeer. The truth is that sometimes you just don't get another chance.

Thanks for an interesting read. Your story is well-written, and I enjoyed Santa's dialogue *Wink*.

Please keep writing...

Connie
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Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Maurice,

I noticed your blog (very catchy name) and clicked on your suitcase to take a peek. Since I love memoirs, this was the piece I selected to read.

I would liked to have known Claudette. She sounds like such a happy, upbeat person to have been around, and you did her justice with your story. I enjoyed the excerpt about the "wishes". What an appropriate name for a mixed box of chocolates. She must have been a joy to be around.

Thanks for sharing this well-told story, and please write more....

Connie
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Review of Missing Pieces  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Jooker,

I'm very interested in the dialogue only concept and find the stories intriguing. You move this piece along smoothly with no disjointedness or confusion even though you change scenes. You simply and directly relate a broad range of topics, a runaway, an abusive stepdad, a strong-willed preteen, a kind wannabe father figure, and insinuate a perfect ending, a happy adoption with loving parents. The banana milkshake may have been a little overkill, though lol.

Still, a good dialogue only story with a naturalness for both characters, I was a little surprised the girl got into the car. She must have been a good reader of character. Please keep writing....

Connie

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Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with  
Rated: E | (4.0)
Hey Revelry,

I enjoyed reading your memory of an old-fashioned radio. You loved it so much, I wanted to give you one I have. It belonged to my mom and has sat unused much as yours has. But, then, sorry, I could not part with it. It has my mom's dna on it *Smile*.

Your dad probably is attached to his mom's radio just like I am to mine, although it may be hard for you to see it. I feel it has some special meaning we are not aware of...yet. I am almost positive that one day it will be yours, just be patient.

You told your story well and, as you can see, it resonated with me. Please keep writing more memories...

Connie

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Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (5.0)
Good Morning,

Thanks for sharing this story and giving me the opportunity to read and review it. In my opinion, it is well-written, and, more importantly, I enjoyed the read. You use interesting metaphors and turn a somewhat serious subject into one that is lighthearted and delightful. I liked your dad's definition of marriage.

You use a lot of foreshadowing about the shower water so it was not a surprise to find you were left in frigid temperatures. I like your sense of humor.

And I think you have made an amazing discovery, if not new, that marriage/love requires a lot of give and take, some little white lies, and always (always) consideration for your better half before yourself. I expect you will be married for many years just like in the "I do's", till death do you part.

Best wishes for you both and "please write more"....

Connie
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Review of Old One Ear  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (5.0)
Hi Cynaemon,

Your name was new to me so after I got your review, I looked around in your port and found you write about things I love, specifically, cats. It looks like we share a love for the little, furry felines

At first I thought this was a story for the younger group, but as I read on, I realized the message you impart is important to everyone, no matter the age. In some parts it seemed similar to an allegory or the old Aesop's Fables I read when I was a youngster, many moons ago. I especially enjoyed the tale's (sorry) first person point of view, Miss Hatshepsut.

I knew the story was a good one when in my mind I could see the felines as humans. The manner in which you wove the writing journal into the story (an item important to all of us) became more natural and unique as you disclosed Old One Ear's character.

I did not see any places where I would know how to improve this story. In fact, I wish I could write one as good. Thanks for writing and sharing this, and I will be reading some more of your stories *Smile*.

Connie
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Review by Happy May 2024!
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Hi Snow,

I like the way you set up your story, mentioning the nightingale in your first paragraph. I knew it would have something to do with your plot. You also laid out Lydia's distrust of the myth of the nightingale, good foreshadowing.

Your story is well-written, easy to follow, with no grammar or punctuation errors that I saw.

I liked the way you brought the wolves into the story, and the way the cat showed no animosity toward the birds. This made your story almost Biblical, the cabin is presented as a safe-haven like the Ark.

Good luck with the contest. I hope you win.

Write more,
Connie

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Go Noticed" .
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Review of Beach  
Review by Happy May 2024!
Rated: E | (5.0)
Hi Word,

I love the first two stones...I guess because they bring back such vivid memories to me. How did you do that? I felt just like I was in the water....again. When I was young, my family and I went to the beach at Lewes, Delaware. It was renowned for jellyfish, I think at a certain time of the year. I was never stung, but as you say, we briefly touched, many times. I loved being in the water so much nothing could keep me out. And then there were the huge waves at Rehoboth. Your Crest-break-roll made me shiver with excitement. Thanks for bringing back these special memories!

Write more,
Connie

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Go Noticed" .
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Review by Happy May 2024!
Rated: 13+ | (4.0)
Hi You....

A mixed-up drink, I assume, and bad karma as well. This is a cute story and gave me a laugh. Actually, I do know a few "real" people who are hooked on Dr. Pepper (not sure if your friend is real or not). And, yes, I think you are right...it's the sugar that is the offender.

Dr. Pepper is okay once in a while, the diet kind, but not very often. My doctor tells me "dark" sodas are bad for your bones. The phosphorus draws out the calcium. It's been a very long time since I had one, and you are smart to quit, even if it was for the wrong reason *Smile*.

Thanks for sharing this cute story...and please keep writing.

Write more,
Connie
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Review by Happy May 2024!
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Hi Judity,

Your story came up on the random read and I wanted to let you know my thoughts. I love stories that have strong themes and this one begs to say, "Be careful what you wish for."

Your story was very well written. and I noticed no errors in spelling or punctuation. I did see a couple of tense changes that gave me a small bump, past when they could have been present, but they were hardly noticeable.

This was a good story, well-told, with excellent advice for us all. Thanks for sharing.

Write more,
Connie
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Review of My African Gray  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Lisa,

I'm returning your favor of a review. Clicking on your port, I was immediately drawn to this poem because I can relate to it. I have an inlaw with an African Grey who actually whistles the complete tune to Bridge Over the River Kwai (he sounds much much better than this) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83bmsluWHZc

I am always fascinated by it. I could see him perfectly (even though it's a him) through the words of your poem. You have good rhyme and rhythm and paint many wonderful pictures. May your pet live a long, long life and continue to be good company.

And please continue sharing and...

Write more,
Connie
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Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hello Kathie,

This is a lovely way to memorialize a patient who has held a special place in your heart. You have helped to make Pam immortal with your words.

Your reminiscing is easy to follow and was very touching. Thirty-six is such a young age to be taken away from family, so many memories still to be made. A loving family and caring people such as yourself, I'm certain helped to make her last days bearable.

Please continue to write and share other stories.....

Write more,
Connie
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Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | N/A (Review only item.)
Hi Princess Megan,

Your story came up on the Random Read and made me feel so good I had to let you know....I am such a sucker for stories told by animals, expecially cats.

The story is told well, and I had a little "heart lurch" each time Tigger met up with someone, wondering if now something bad was going to happen. The idea of an orphanage run by nuns was a perfect ending to your story. And the reuniting of Tigger and mom was even better. (I liked your pictures, too.)

Thanks for this enjoyable Sunday afternoon read and please.....

Write more,
Connie
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Review of Shutterbug  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: 18+ | (4.5)
Hi SoCalScribe,

You came up on the Random Read again, and since your other story was so good, I had to read this one and comment, too.

Oh, to have one of those cameras. No, that would be too dangerous, holding life and death in our hands.

Your story reminded me of one of those old Twilight Zone shows, or maybe Outer Limits. The pace was good, it held my attention and was well-written, although about half-way through, I figured out the ending.

Thanks for sharing this, and....

Write more,
Connie
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Review of Martha  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (5.0)
Hello Bertiebrite,

I found your story on the Hub Page and after reading it, I wanted to share my thoughts with you.

I think the story is very well-written, it flows smoothly, has just the right amount of description to put me in the picture, and the action moves along enough to keep me interested and reading.

You gained my sympathy for Martha right away with the tale of her hardships and losses. At some point in the story, I'm not exactly sure where, I realized Ben was dead.

You write this with such kindness as though Martha may have been your grandmother or great-grandmother. I enjoyed the sprinkling of bits of history. It anchors the setting of time and place.

Thanks for an enjoyable Monday morning read and please...

Write more,
Connie
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Review of Transference  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: ASR | (4.5)
Good Afternoon SoCalScribe,

Your story came up on the Random Read, and your first paragraph hooked me. I had to read on to see how he got there and why the doctors were letting him get up off the operating table. Sort of unusual, I thought.

You kept your pace steady enough to hold my attention and gave me little hints of what was transpiring. About half way through, I began to wonder if this person was superhuman or something, and when the cloning was revealed, all was explained.

Your title is a good one. It did not give away the story and yet at the end, it all fit together.

Thanks for an enjoyable read and please...

Write more,
Connie
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Review of Fairies  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (5.0)
Hi Silverquill,

Your poem came up on the Random Read, and your title made me smile and think of St. Patty's Day coming up.

You've written a lilting, whimsical poem, just the kind I like. Your mood is happy, yet I think there is a little warning in there somewhere *Smile*.

I like your reference to the butterfly, and yes, I think they could be fairies. At least they are not to be understood by the likes of us *Bigsmile*.

Your rhymes are good and the rhythm could not be better. You make me want to go outdoors and look for butterflies!

Hope you're having a great day, and thanks for sharing your views on fairies. Oh, and...

Write more,
Connie
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Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Good Morning Vagabond,

Your story came up on the Random Read, looked interesting, so I read on. The contest description under your title looked interesting as well...write a story without the letter "u". That eliminates "you", a very common word. I've already used "your" and "without" in this short paragraph. *Smile*

Your story sounds like it may have happened. And what you found out years later, reinforces the validity of it. Isn't the internet wonderful?

Your title fit even though it covered a lot of ground. Something more to the point like "Terror at the Pond" would have been a stronger hook for me and still not given away much.

Your pace was steady. You never lost me, but a few sensual experiences could help make the situaltion more tense, such as tripping over something, a funny smell, or strange noises. They may not have been part of the "real" story, but as a writer we have the liberty to invent things to make them more interesting.

I like your last paragraph implying the picture was of a real person. It ties your story together and leaves the reader with something to think about. Good job.

Thanks for the interesting morning read and....

Write more,
Connie
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Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: 13+ | (5.0)
Hi Hooves,

I thoroughly enjoyed the introduction to your port and look forward to nosing around some more. Your pup is adorable, but then I have found all bassett hounds to be that way *Smile*.

Your sig for tHINg looks suspiciously like something I may have watched on TV a long time ago... the monsters or munsters or something like that *Bigsmile*. It looks as though you have been very busy on the site, and your huge number of monthly reviews has not escaped my attention either. My hat is off to you!

Please forgive the brevity of this review, but I am eager to look over your "remooing rules" and the other links you have provided.

Thanks for stirring my interest and please...

Write more,
Connie
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Review of Lilac Time  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (5.0)
Hi Fyn,

After clicking on the Random Read, I found your day-brightening poem. I mean that literally. It is dark, cold and pouring rain here this morning.

What a picture you create, one every aged couple longs for. Jim and I are there right now *Smile*. I want to be sitting in your garden, with my loved one, smelling the lilacs and completely at peace with everything.

Thanks for turning around my day, and...

Write more,
Connie
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Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Joel,

I stopped by your port and since you had this story highlighted, I thought it must be a good one. I wasn't disappointed. I assume this was probably a true tale of your childhood. I love to read these kinds of stories and yours is very well-written. You kept the action flowing just right.

I kept thinking to myself as I was reading, "now isn't that just like an eight year old boy?". If it wasn't true, it certainly was a good made-up tale (no pun intended) *Smile*.

I like the way you set me up in your first paragraph by telling me the teacher described you as easily distracted and a distraction to others. I was waiting for the catastrophe to unfold.

I really liked the quick, on the spot, mouse costume you made yourself. An empty toilet paper roll nose with rolled tin foil whiskers brought forth an amazing "mousy" picture in my mind. Too bad you could not figure a way to get it to stay in place. And I don't see a thing wrong with tin foil ears. You had way more imagination than your teacher!

Thanks for the fun read and the snapshot into your childhood (if it was) and do....

Write more,
Connie
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Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Good Morning Sybil,

I found your name on the anniversay list for today. Congratulations on your ninth anniversay on writing .com!

This is a very well-written story on the "having a baby" process. The poor husband has no idea what he is in for. I'm certainly glad they made it to the hospital.

Your colloquial dialogue seems very naturnal. I found no problems following the storyline even on the first read through. The first person approach fits the story well and keeps the suspense at a high pitch. I kept thinking they weren't going to make it to the ER.

I loved the oohs and aahs over the little baby girl and the complete turn around of the husband from never wanting another to when can we have the next one. Isn't that the way of it? We forget pain so quickly when good things come from it.

Thanks for an enjoyable early morning read.

Write more,
Connie

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Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (5.0)
Hi BScholl,

Okay...you got me on that one. I found your story by clicking on the Random Read, saw the (2nd Place) and figured it had to be a good one. I was not disappointed *Smile*.

As I read, I did begin to wonder how the title was going to play into the story, but you managed to keep me in the dark until the very end. What a little rascal *Smirk*, the grandson, not you.

Jason almost tipped his hand by asking if something was wrong but the suspense continued to build as the reader was unaware of what the other grandchildren had been told. Good forewarning here.

I liked your dialogue and the way the tags helped to "show" your story. If you got 2nd place, I'd be interested in seeing number one *Wink*.

Thanks for the enjoyable read and....

Write more,
Connie
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Review of My Wild Existence  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with Rising Stars of WdC  
Rated: ASR | (4.5)
Hi Shaara,

I found your story on the random read. Your first sentence had me hooked; I had to read on to see what happened to you *Smile*. What a full day Wednesday was!

Your story's pace kept me reading without a stumble. I'll bet you had fun telling your seventh graders about your day's experience. At least the cops were doing their job. Did Fred prove useful? And did Prissy recooperate well?

Thanks for the chuckles and the well-written story.

Write more,
Connie
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Review of Snowed In  
Review by Happy May 2024!
In affiliation with The Talent Pond  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Coffeebean,

Your story came up on the random read and since it gave me a chuckle, I had to let you know.

Your character is fixated on honey buns. If he cannot have the real thing, then maybe he can make do with some of the ingredients.

I like the way the wife tried to get his mind on other things (eyeglasses and toast) and yet he is drawn back to honey buns everytime.

The story did turn out well and thanks for sharing this little part of your character's day. It just goes to show, if you have enough imagination and staying power, you can turn anything into a good story. *Smile*

Write more,
Connie
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