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Review Requests: OFF
3,224 Public Reviews Given
3,263 Total Reviews Given
Review Style
Template most of the time, covering setting/plot/characters/conflict/resolution if applicable. For shorter works, I concentrate more on feelings evoked.
I'm good at...
Short story, chapter reviews and in-depth reviews.
Favorite Genres
Sci-fi, Romance, mystery, children's
Least Favorite Genres
Historical
Favorite Item Types
Short stories, novel chapters
Least Favorite Item Types
essay, editorial, non-fiction, somebody's homework assignment
I will not review...
XGC, poems, prose. I am an animal activist and vegan, so cruelty or violent, unnecessary, death due to negligence is overwhelming. I am unable to review any pieces involving abuse of any kind to anyone. I like to keep my corner or the world happy, because I grew beyond my "challenges" of childhood and don't want to look back.
Public Reviews
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101
101
Review by Nixie
Rated: E | (4.5)
Official "Short Shots: Official WDC Contest"  Judges' Review


Hi Chris,

The rush and immediacy of the plot drove me forward, plunging me into the story. My heart was even beating fast. I'm impressed that everything in this story was pertinent. The foreshadowing of the stars missing proved to be the swing of the story's arc.

At first, I was angry with the dad. So human-like. Shooting blindly toward something he didn't understand. I wanted to cry, thinking the being would be dead. What a surprise when Abigail healed it. A huge sigh of relief from me.

Through the dad's interactions with Abigail, I understood him and loved him for being such a good dad. The point wasn't over-played. Nicely done, especially with a word limitation.

A few spacing issues barred this item from perfect. Four chunky paragraphs threw the story off-balance. In the paragraph beginning with "In a panic" the sentence was too wordy. It was important to emphasize the 'vast open valley' But was [floor?] the correct word.

The originality of the plot and characters that were relatable made reading your work a joy, with a jolt of fear to keep me off-balance. Well done!

Thanks for entering the contest!

Nixie- judge for the "Short Shots: Official WDC Contest" 


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
102
102
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 18+ | (2.5)
Official "Short Shots: Official WDC Contest"  Judges' Review


Hi Sci-fi

Thanks for writing this in a bold and larger font. It was easy on the eyes.

I'm sure the plot is fused in your mind, but I found the story as vague as the title. It wasn't always clear who was speaking. There were so many characters in the plot, and that did not help. And I didn't understand the premise. Are the characters mentioned the only ones still alive, under the surface of Galvian? And for the few who are leaving, where are they going?

What is the sickness? At first, I thought you meant the sickness was shared when males and females developed relationships.

Lots of repetition slowed down the reading experience. I lost count of how many times the word 'boring' was used.

Even after reading this four times, I remain baffled. That said, it takes courage to enter this contest. Thanks for taking part. *Smile*

Nixie - judge for "Short Shots: Official WDC Contest" 



*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
103
103
Review of Worlds apart  
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.0)
Hi there. Nixie dropping by with a special message for you. An anniversary review!

HAPPY 16th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*


This wasn't an easy piece to review. I wasn't sure how deep the pain would go, as I too have lost a sibling. My sister was only 30 when she died, way back in 1983.

You encapsulated my wild emotions in a few verses. I liked the upbeat feel contrasted by the sorrow. Best of all, the last line. I can still bring my sister to mind, merely by thinking of her. All we leave behind are memories. I wondered why anyone would try to push away memories. However, I respect that everyone processes grief in their own way.

The poem flowed smoothly, but I would have preferred more spacing between lines to show off the rhyming scheme. Long ago, someone mentioned in a review for me, that the reader deserved a better word than simply 'nice'. (line 8) So I'm passing along that thought.

*Heartv*Favorite line, poignant, accurate, and vivid.
"...no where city"

Nice write. *Smile* *Hug1**Frown**Hug2*



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104
104
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | N/A (Review only item.)
Hi Hooves. Another port scan review from guess who? *Smile*

Initial Attraction
The title piqued my curiousity, and the brief description sent my mind scrambling down the hallways of my past.

Overall Reaction
The uniqueness of the first stanza lit the path to understanding and appreciating this poem. Right away, I knew this was an elderly woman, and I can 't think of a more original way to show this. (I didn't even read the note until after I began the review. That's how eager I was to make the discovery.)

I liked this free-flowing poem that was not tied down by any rules or a specific style. The large bold font eased my eye-strain. Sometimes, it's the little stuff that counts.

I can't imagine a nursing home with free-roaming cats, but the irony? What your aunt avoided all her life found her in the end? In a way, it felt like comedic relief, but that wasn't the significant impact.

Personal Connection
My grandmother made afghans all the time. She never looked in her yarn basket, just fished around for the pieces. The result? Some truly horrible mismatches, uniquely Grandma's. She made one for each of my children, at birth. It was so long ago, the blankets are long gone.

And in the end?
Are you trying to knock me over and blow me down with such beautiful sadness? Because it's working. My grandma's blankets may not have lived on, but the tenderness of your last two stanzas gave me pause. Honestly, I held my breath a bit so none of the magic could slip away. Wonderful writing. *Heartv*

Personal image. One 1/4 of the inner me.

Overwatch Guardian
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


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105
105
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 13+
Hi Hooves. Nixie here again. *Smile*

Thoughts for you to chew on.

Cool title. I had no clue as to what might happen in this story, and I like it that way. Even the brief description was cloudy, so I knew this would be an adventure.

You are a woman of many talents. Just when I think I've 'got a handle' on your style, a story like this pops up.

I'll admit to thinking 'what the heck?' while reading. But I was laughing all the way through as I read.

You found a multitude of ways to remind the reader of the narrator's cow-ness. And then twisted it around a bit via multiple mentions of the Vera Bradley purse.

I'd have to break the reviewing rules against too much copy/paste to highlight all my favorite sentences. Okay, just one. Nope. Can't do it. Every time I single out a sentence as the best, I see all the others.

Did I detect a bit of some muck-slinging at the way our government is total chaos. Especially now that we're a split nation. And that's all I care to say about politics.

I had such a wonderful time reading this. It's the first time I've ventured over to the pastures of your cow-persona. I've always wondered how that came to be.

Finding comedy anywhere seems impossible these days. Thanks for giving me a reason to smile. My heart is less burdened now. Do you see the talent you have for making people (me anyhow) connect with your writing?

Reviewing your work was

My Pleasure tks.


Nixie
Overwatch Guardian
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
106
106
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 18+ | (4.5)
Hi Hooves. *Smile* This is review #1 from my package at Sisco's auction.



*Baretree3*
The Hook
I am terrified of squirrels with their bulging eyes and brash behaviour. One time at a rest stop, a squirrel stole a candy bar right out of my hand. So with the title and brief description you chose, reading this was a no-brainer. I also wanted to ensure we were talking about the same rodent. Even though bushy-tailed was a giveaway.

*Baretree3*
A closer look
The unusual formatting was unexpected, but this was an easy read. The prompt words were sewn in seamlessly, no bumps along the way. I liked how the tension built sentence by sentence. You had my heart pounding.

*Baretree3*
Emotions evoked
Maybe the most amusing part was your husband's reactions. Men. The back and forth dialogue delighted me. An amusing way to drive a plot. *Thumbsup* Men can drive a sane woman up the wall. And they clearly don't comprehend how to handle an upset wife. Laughter? Unforgivable. But, of course, they have the most logical course of action, which is so aggravating.

Excellent use of forewarning when you mentioned the 'thin' robe. I wondered where it would come into play. I thought maybe you'd get locked out, but, sorry, what really happened was even funnier. *Laugh* Nice neighbors, though.

Vivid descriptions allowed me to enter the scene as if I were there. Your sense of humour is sharp and witty.

I'm not comma queen, and I don't see the point in mentioning misplaced ones. This sentence is only to backup my rating.

*Baretree3*
A closed book=lasting impression
Combining my personal connection and your experience definitely leaves a lasting impression in my mind. Well done.

~Nixie



Love this image from Brooke! Personal signature

"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" Overwatch Guardian



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107
107
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (5.0)
Hi Nixie here. I found your item via random review


*Vine1* Initial reaction
Since I'm a cat person, I couldn't wait to read this. I saw the story reviewed on the public review page and posted as the winner on the Newsfeed.

*Vine2* Overall Impression
Absolutely hysterical and well-done. I liked the unique topic and the interview formatting. I think cats will take over the world. They are way too clever.

And you're clever as well. You have an excellent writer's voice and a startling, unique humorous side. I rarely read comedy since I'm more of a dark person, who doesn't like to laugh. Well, you got me good. Thanks a lot for making me laugh. Is that sarcastic or true? A bit of both, light on the sarcasm. The cat's various positions and antics were easy to see in my mind. Especially the meerkating one.

what an original idea to have the cat confess to modern day events. The Suez Canal catastrophe, indeed.


*Vine1* Personal Connection
A feral cat chose me, years ago, when she walked into my apartment. Now, she's an excellent time keeper. She wakes me if I'm still asleep at eight. She meows around me when it's time for dinner, and again for bed. She's persistent. She's not like the cat in this story. I wouldn't want to be the owner.

*Vine1* That's a wrap
I hope many others stop by to read this. You may force other darklings to smile. Outstanding write!




image for when I feel dark

Nixie Overwatch Guardian
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
108
108
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Sonali! Lucky me, I landed here via read and review. *Smile*



*Baretree3*
The Hook
The title of this poem made me feel light. There's really no spring in Florida, just cooler and hot.

*Baretree3*
Emotions evoked

Whenever I read your entries, I find words that don't appear in my vocabulary. It gives everything you write an exotic feeling that takes me away from my computer and lake view, imagining what you're seeing.

The words are unusual, far from what one might normally read about this topic. Words like vernal equinox, and active verbs like caress, comb and ruffle. That's quite an assortment that arouses the senses. Although the the sentence lengths were unequal (a quibble of mine) the first and longest line began my journey with something you must see every day. Olive trees. I wonder what they look like? Other than the images on google, that is. Do they have a particular smell? Can you pick them? Olives are the best, and I have many varieties in my 'fridge'.

And to be even more picky, I prefer stanzas, rather than a block of text.

*Baretree3*
Lasting impression
You must know that last line was a zinger. The entire poem was delicate, and that's what made those last words so perfect for this piece.

Beautiful write.

Love this image from Brooke! Personal signature

"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" Overwatch Guardian



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109
109
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Kenword. How has your anniversary month been?
(I count months, not days, because I'm so often late.) *Facepalm* Anyway~

HAPPY 11th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



Ugh. You wrote a story about one of the worst happenings of where I live. One little dog begins yapping, followed by another, and answered by a third with a deep growl. Most likely a monster dog. I don't understand how people can be so unkind and not take neighbors into their considerations.

Lucky for me, you wrote a humorous story which made me laugh.

The details in the beginning may have been dry with passive sentences, but your writing voice is strong, so you captured me. Early on, I liked the thought of a 'blank canvas' for the wife to demonstrate her artistry and satisfy her needs.

From there, the story expanded and gently unfolded the flowing plot. The story had an air of authenticity. I was able to draw a picture in my mind. Too many moves in and out though--there was bound to be trouble on the horizon. I think lots of people wouldn't fess up to their dog being the culprit. Great Danes, yikes! They are beautiful creatures, though.

~You need some more spacing in the paragraph beginning with "The new next door neighbor..."

And the story completed with quite the kicker. Ugh. Do I sense a pattern forming? Will that neighborhood always be plagued with barking?

Martin solved it all with one sentence. Superb conclusion. I enjoyed the humor throughout. *Smile*




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110
110
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: ASR | (5.0)
Hi Sonali. Apologies for missing your anniversary day.

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



Reaction at the last line? *Laugh* Good one.

You chose an interesting conflict for this entry. Who'd ever think about a confrontation over a newborn and a blanket. My grandmother used to make afghans for every grandchild. She was 'old school' and never bothered to make the colors match. Whatever was in her basket was knitted into the blanket for some (sometimes) hideous combinations.

I really like Grandma Kay. She's a lady with a strong backbone who doesn't give up. Her conversation with the new nurses showed this. I smiled at her tenacity. Excellent dialogue remained consistent all the way through. Her character felt authentic, and I was so sad when they turned her away. But I did wonder if a wool blanket would irritate a newborn's skin. I'm allergic.

The family here sounded like a close-knit group. And they all loved each other. Even if it wasn't specifically stated, the overall effect of the words created this sense of unity.

I didn't expect the grandmother to come up with that zinger of a last line, though. The unexpected surprised me, again, as so often happens in your stories. I was hoping to find another cultural story I hadn't read. Those are my favorite. They all deserved a quill, and I'm sorry the chance to nominate slipped by. Maybe this year?

~Nixie



Glitter horse image and me

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111
111
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 13+ | (5.0)
Hi Queen. *Crown* Nixie here, popping in with a celebratory review.

HAPPY 9th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



It took some amount of time to peruse your port and find a story that jumped out at me, apart from all the others. You're a prolific writer. *Thumbsup*

I chose this story because of the title. (the unique word solace tells me in advance this walk is soothing.) I don't know. I simply liked the sound of it. I too, find peace wandering in the woods. Unless there's other people making noise.

I wondered how hard it would be for me to read this essay. I'm sorry for all your losses. The inherent question is one I've never been able to answer. Which is easier to deal with? An anticipated death or an unexpected death. My dad died in his 80's. An expected death. I profoundly miss him. My sister died in her 30's, leaving behind three children. My dad left a void. My sister's death still impacts me. I'm lost without her.

I agree with you. Simply because a person has lost touch with a friend doesn't make the death easier to reconcile. If my best friend from the 1990's died, I'd be sad, exactly for the reasons you stated.

Overall, the read was easier than I expected. I wasn't devastated because your approach was matter-of-fact, rather than overly emotional. Nice wording about your mom's death. (end of her struggles.) We can find a slice of peace, knowing that even though a loved one has left us...ok, I can't write about this anymore. *HeartBroken*

*Star* What really stood out and will remain in my mind is the last sentence. Such profound thinking matches up with my feelings. I try to make memories for the ones who survive my death, because, as you stated, that's how we go on. In our memories.

The last paragraph made up the bulk of your essay. Maybe since both your parents had somewhat expected deaths, an unexpected one hurt more. Anyhow, I still don't have an answer.

Here's to more solace in the woods. *Trees*

~Nixie *Heart*

Kicking down the walls of normalcy

"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


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112
112
Review of Down in the Dumps  
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 18+ | (4.5)
Hi Percy. Nixie here, bearing a small gift.

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



Wow, you really hooked me with this story. It's a shame you didn't continue it. I'm already drawn to your main character and wondering about his backstory. In fact, I like him so much, him doing something awful seems incomprehensible.

Seriously, a detailed and highly visual opening scene demonstrated his character in only a few words. The inner dialogue added a personal touch. The only problem is the sentence beginning with the gerund [slapping]. He can't both be slapping his hands and throwing the bag in the trash. It's an easy mistake to make, but once aware of it, the impossibility shines through. You could try something like this. [He slapped the salt dust from his hands and then tossed the empty bag...] you'd have a sensical sentence. Still, those gerunds can be difficult niggles to work with.

Twice, you described Manny as looking like he came from Florida. Oops. Also, when Manny sets his bike aside, there's a lot of [it] floating around in there. I like the way the sentence began with [10 speed] but somewhere along the way you might want to consider throwing [bike] in one more time, rather than [it].

The word [awkward] was used twice to demonstrate the situation.

Otherwise, this story is amazing. It doesn't sound as if things will be great for Steuzi, rather it sounds ominous. But a man with his back against the wall...he'll probably take the job. So the reader is left guessing and wishing for another chapter. It's difficult to imagine no one has read or reviewed this piece. Maybe someone will read my review and check out the story.

*Star* Highly recommended read!




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113
113
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.0)
Hi Angelica!

HAPPY 15th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



I waffled over the decision to review this blip of a story. The beginning discouraged me because it's so vague. She 'went over' where? What is the character's name?

Verb tense. That first sentence is present tense, the next is past.

She chose a house just off the interstate?

You chose several distancing words. (decided, 'seemed like a very long time) [just] [I heard] [managed to find the college]
One example: ]I hopped into my red Honda and drove to the college.] It's a good idea to specify a time, rather than saying it was very long. Many more details are needed to flesh out the story. It's a little confusing.

What I really liked was the message, as hinted at in the brief description. I've resigned myself to living alone for the rest of my life, but do wonder about chance encounters. When I leave the house I dress nicely, specifically for an opportunity.

So it makes perfect sense for these two characters to meet in line. A bit of tension and curiousity let my mind wander. Hmm. He's headed for the dorm, she's bought a house. Will they have classes together? The concept of a chance meeting blossoming into something more intimate pleased me. There was no specificity here, something I enjoyed. I was able to speculate on my own.

Anyhow, this seems to be the beginning of a project, and they can be messy. I sometimes use 'work in progress' if what I'm writing doesn't seem complete, but I'd like feedback on what I've already written. Of course, I have to start writing again for that to happen. *Laugh*

Here's to happy accidents and account anniversaries. *Confettip* *Partyhatp*


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114
114
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Elizabeth!

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



First and foremost, I'd like to thank you for the presentation. I wish everyone would write in a larger font with more spacing. The overall appearance was aesthetically pleasing, making this plot flow smoothly.

Truth be told, I've never entered this activity. I didn't know what to expect, so the reading seemed a little dry. Towards the end I caught on and understood the intent. Great job establishing your characters.

How true the last line. Money goes so fast, and it's almost impossible to resist the latest 'bright and shiny.' Aside from necessities, my money stretches to buy crystals. I have to be careful. Once I start looking, it's impossible not to purchase one. However, I'm aware of my limited income and proceed with caution. What a shame the kids blew their inheritance. I imagine the rest of their lives won't be easy. They must have indulged themselves due to growing up with little money to spare.

Since this is merely an introduction to characters, the advice I usually give doesn't really apply here. But something to think about. Try to open with a catchy first sentence of paragraph and avoid sentences with the word [was] for a more interesting reader experience. *Wink*

I see you were also limited by a word count, which can be challenging. Hopefully, I drew the correct conclusion about this being an introduction to characters. I have a solid feeling for the kids, bolstered by a back story. Ha, if really believe in the last sentence. They're in for a harsh reality.

Other than the excess [was] occurrences, I didn't note any other squeaky doors that distracted.



New identity for SPR

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115
115
Review of Fat Squirrels  
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.0)
Hi BeHereBook. Nixie delivery a message for you.

HAPPY 13th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



I enjoyed reading this story, it showed both the squirrels and a bit of scenery to fill the mind. You've made several good points here, blended into what seemed to be innocent words.

When you mentioned health issues humans worry about, but not squirrels, it reminded me of my own thoughts. We think squirrels chasing each other looks like fun. What if our human perspective is wrong?

Excellent description of the squirrels, showing their many tricks and finding different ways to hide their fat. My favorite was mentioning the greys and browns that obscure their bellies.

You completed the arc of the prose in the last stanza. Well done! My only suggestion would be eliminating exclamation points. Your choice, of course, but they looked out of place to me.


Feeding wild animals is dangerous. They forget how to forage for food. It's squirrel play to snatch from people. One time I stopped at at rest area in NYS. I've never seen such bold squirrels. They creep me out anyway, with their bulging eyes. Within minutes, they had me completely surrounded, some even perched on the table, Then one walked right up to me and stared me in the eyes, coveting my candy bar. It frightened me to the point where I willingly gave it to him and then worried about it ingesting the plastic.

Thanks for the fun I had reading the various observations and picturing the giant boulders in my mind. *Bigsmile* However, I would have liked to read more about The trail mentioned in the brief description. It sounds fascinating. Nice write.



So many images!

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116
116
Review of The Well  
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (3.5)
Hi Lazy writer,

HAPPY 13th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



I like to write positive anniversary reviews, because we're celebrating. I sense the potential in this story, but it sort of falls flat. I asked myself what the conflict was. Brother against sister. The resolution, the brother telling the truth.

Maybe if kids were following continuous stories about the pickle kids, this would be more exciting. Or maybe if it had illustrations. As it reads now, there's way too many passive sentences. Writers want to show emotion, not explain that someone felt one way or another.

Also, try to work in descriptions of the characters, possibly by one observing the other. That's not to say appearances should be listed. For example, Derek can toss his unruly brown hair and look at Penny with widened, innocent blue eyes, like Mom's. Dialogue could continue, Derek to Penny. You have the right idea when Derek comments on Penny's long hair getting tangled. *Star*

The other siblings definitely don't need their appearances specifically listed. Again, turn these into observations, as you did in the example above. You know how to do this! For example, don't tell the reader the dad had calluses. Show us. Maybe Penny puts her hand in his and feels the bumps and ridges. Just a thought.

Neckless should be spelled necklace. The mistake is repeated to the point of distraction. A quick spell check would have caught this error.

From reading the brief description, more of a scene was built. Good job. The only problem was the listing of the description and the many passive sentences.

The ending was a little odd. Why didn't the dad fix the house they lived in? Were the tasks beyond his skill level?

I'm averse to pointing out many other errors, because, as I said, this is a celebration. I came from a family of 5 siblings, and something was always going wrong. Once, one of my brothers rewired the intercom system and recorded all of our silly dinner conversation that drove my poor dad to distraction. He often said "Can't we have any normal conversation at dinner?" That just made us laugh even more. It gives me a lot to work with when I write stories.

This is me bowing out, with an anniversary wish on her lips. Congrats on graduating to a teenager!

~Nixie Overwatch Guardian

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117
117
Review of I am Sham  
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Kalai

HAPPY 13th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



In answer to your question, no one can tell you who you are. One first feels the joy within and then it shines out for others to see. If another person can't see that, it's their loss. No one has the right to judge others.

I tended to accept other people's assessments of me and considered myself a failure. Now I've learned self-affirmation and live alone. I don't need outside influences to maintain self-esteem. Although I'll take a compliment any day.

From this prose, I hear deeper issues at hand. No one should blow out someone else's candle so theirs shines brighter. At the conclusion, it seemed you'd worked this all out by recognizing the duplicity of that person.

Both my marriages failed because neither husband could deal with a woman with a strong personality like mine. They dragged me down and I allowed it. Maybe it's a personality flaw. I only see what I want to and then fifteen years down the road the truth shows through.

I liked the progression of each verse showing the transition of age and the differences. The flow wasn't smooth, but in this case I think the message was more important than the mechanics. Excellent idea to set the last phrases apart from the other stanzas.

I hope you were the one who chose how this relationship ended. And I hope that stinging pain abated. *Heart* You are definitely not a sham.


Kicking down the walls of normalcy

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118
118
Review of Thinking Spring  
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (5.0)
Hi James. Nixie here bringing a review.

HAPPY 19th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



What a wonderful experience you brought as I read your bright and 'springy' observations. The poem, how can I explain this? Reading it was almost like looking out a window, or watching a show on television. (yes, really weird comment) Why? Because I saw a scene unfolding, following a rolling rhythm and simple rhymes.

I read what was written on your portfolio tab. Wow, you must be a bright and accomplished writer. Sometimes, words stated simply (as in your poem) create a larger impact than expected. Every word counts. I appreciated the expression of your observational talents. I doubt anyone can read your poem and close a review without a smiling face.

Covid-weary as most, you lifted my spirits, if only for a bit. So, thanks for the gentle nudge that brought me back to what really counts in life. Nature. Using the same line as opening and closing completed the circle. The first time I read it as an introduction. When I read it as the last it impacted me more. And there's where I found my smile. *Smile*

Interesting we've never met. We must travel along different paths here in WdC land. Maybe I'll see you around.

~Nixie



Kicking down the walls of normalcy

"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
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Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi IE. Nixie here, with a celebratory review.

HAPPY 2nd WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



As I was perusing the list of this month's anniversary members, I chose to read your story because I've never 'seen you around' WdC. Tripping through your portfolio, I discovered you're a romantic, and I'm not. Reviewing one of your poems felt 'wrong'. Since this was the only story, here I am.

The title wasn't as strong as the story. I think it deserves a better one. And please consider showing off this piece a bit more with a tantalizing brief description. Usually, writers make a note at the bottom of the story, sometimes with a link to the contest, or sometimes merely the requirements. I prefer a link just in case I want a shot at writing for the contest.

Anyhow, finally I'm approaching the story. What a marvelous find! Even though I had to squint all the way through due to the small font, I kept reading as you brought me further and further into your plot. You divulge a lot of information about the characters, not by sticking in awkward details, but actually incorporating the back story naturally.

Right now, I'm thinking about the wonderful job you did allowing us to see Justin's challenges. More precisely, the missing dad. My heart broke with Justin's remembered last conversation. So touching. I'm guessing he left due to a divorce, but that was never revealed. And the mom was sad, too. Since that's not here nor there in the plot, I like how you gave the reader enough info, without going deeper. Good job.

Bang-up job showing the relationship between Justin and his mom. Very creative, letting Justin's thoughts (italics) show who his mom was. Now Justin seemed awfully naive for an 11-year-old, and he seemed overly attached to the mom, for a boy his age. The mom comes off as a little too strict. I guess all that can be chalked up to the trauma of losing the dad.

I encountered a few run-on sentences that can be broken up. They weren't horribly confusing. They all made sense, but it was a lot to be taken in.

I've lost the place where Justin screeches to a stop. [Screeches] doesn't work for me. It's a sound that can be heard, such as a bus or car screeches to a stop. A sound for a thing, maybe a skateboard, not a person. Just a thought.

After all this time reviewing the story, the impression of Justin not seeming like an 11-year-old and the mom treating him like a child, lingers.

The story wrapped up with a fitting conclusion. Honesty rewarded. *Star*

Oh, here's your favorite flower. *Tulipr* *Smile*


My vulnerable side

"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
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Review of The Twinkle  
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (5.0)
Hi Stimpy. Nixie here with a celebration review for you.

HAPPY 14th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



The honest clarity of this poem brought me both wonderment and pain. What a marvelous job capturing the process of life, from an innocent babe continuing on to whatever waits ahead.

Nothing about my childhood resonated with this poem. It was pretty awful. I'm sure it was wondrous until the age of four, but I wouldn't remember what transpired before then.

I chose to accept the positive aura of your write. *Sun*

I did experience an overwhelming connection. Honestly, I think you must have known my son at one time, because the poem engulfs his entire life. (He's in his 30's now.) I have this picture of him (at age two) riding on a bouncy toy horse, and my-oh-my, as you mentioned, that twinkle in his eye showed me what kind of kid he'd be. Wild and free. Careless with his life.

Sometimes I think he was born with a dark cloud over his head, and it will never pass by. He didn't see what was coming, but I knew by the time he was two what trouble he would bring to himself. (and me.)

It's so funny to remember how fast we wanted to grow up. So much so, we counted 1/2 years when someone asked how old we were. We rushed towards that moment when we'd be unfettered from parents. Then, the discovery of life and it's turmoils catches up with us.

The last line of the poem summed up the parts. Although I enjoyed every line and verse, that line impacted me the most. The write was bright, but also realistic, drowning the reader in depression and futility. Nicely done.


My vulnerable side

"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
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Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: ASR | (4.0)
Hi Draco. *Smile* Nixie here with an anniversary review, celebrating 19 years!

HAPPY 19th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



I chose this poem to read because I too feel the impact of the weather. Storms excite the air. The smell is unmistakable, although how to explain that smell evades me.

In the first stanza, the last line ending with [there] felt awkward. The poem sounds as if the observations are first person POV. In my mind, [here] makes more sense, but that costs the rhyme.

*Lightning2*
In the second stanza, I can't imagine lightning flying. [Flashing] sounds more likely. But same as the first stanza, you'd lose the rhyme. And with an oncoming storm, why would bees be about? Are you trying to say the wind sounds like bees? whispering? I was thinking about [seeing lightning flash and hearing thunder crash.] or something similar. Just a thought...

Same stanza, why is [Bustling] capitalized?

*Leaf2R*
If leaves are in the eaves, they're more or less trapped, not moving. And how can one see so high as the eves? Maybe a hurricane would have enough force to whip around the leaves, but that phenomenon is not what's being expressed here.

*Checkg*
I like the lack of punctuation because this feels like a continuous flow of observations.

I can sense what you're trying to say. I understand the feelings in this poem. The poem has incredible potential, with some editing. As is, this reader is confused.

After poking around in your portfolio, I noticed nothing has been written since 2002. Why did the poems die? Where have they gone? Not with the wind, I hope. Write more!

Kicking down the walls of normalcy

"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
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Review of Carolina's Curls  
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Maggie. Nixie here, with a present for you.

HAPPY 18th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



What a fantastic story, filled with bright visions and the opposite of what one would expect, the endless teasing of Carolina. I gobbled up all the words, each sentence seamlessly leading to the next.

One thought. What if you changed the brief description for the story? You'd keep the secret, and keep readers guessing until the last line.

In the beginning, I was remembering when my mom first took me for a haircut. The stylist simply cut off my hair from the braids down. No warning, just snip, snip, and I had a pixie cut. It was such a traumatic event for me, I wish now I had Carolina's attitude. Spunky.

I bit of a clunky phrase. What about [dotted with large multi-colored gems]?

... and there were many very large multi-colored gems all over it

Would you like to consider removing the full caps when the teacher directs the students to the art room? Most likely not, as most don't edit pieces written years ago. *Laugh*

What a wonderful and inspirational story. Oops. almost forgot to say how delightful the alliteration was. Well done!


Signature for use by anyone nominated for a Quill Award in 2020
best reviewing

Nixie, Overwatch Guardian
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
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Review of Fire Hands  
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (3.5)
Hi Raven. Nixie here with a present for you. Ta-da!

HAPPY 1st! WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



Well, thanks to television, the theme of the story is one often told. But the title was so compelling!

I wish you'd filled out your bio or portfolio tab. You may be new to the community but an accomplished writer, or vice-versa.

The general plot, fire and ice from teens who must find safe haven, as I said, is common. Due to that your story has to be dynamite if you want it to stand out.

I'd begin with keeping to the same verb tense. It switches from sentence to sentence, or paragraph to paragraph.

She screamed until her throat becomes sore.
She screams until her throat becomes sore, or she screamed until her throat became sore.

Also, try to avoid using the same words.
In the first sentence, she's turned around and around, so why say she burned everything [around] her.

Try to remember that in fiction less is more.

She yelled at them clasping her hands to her chest tightly.
I'd ditch [tightly] since you've created that image without tacking on an adverb at the end.

The conclusion makes sense, mostly because that's how it's written for TV. Emotions control powers, especially teens.

Among these words, I sense a strong story. With a bit of work, you could make this shine. *Star*


~Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
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for entry "Beginning Again" 
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Carly Blue. Nixie here with an anniversary review. Ha! I made a rhyme. lol

HAPPY 8th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



Good grief, woman. You joined "I Write" for how many years? I chose 2020 and that was enough for me. It's a demanding activity, but well worth the effort. Your portfolio twinkles with all the years of writing displayed vibrantly. I looked at it and thought, 'Carly's rocking this.'

I liked all the different forms of rhyming. Some, catching me off guard, some making me wander back through the words, looking for the rhyme. They don't all rhyme, do they? Perish the thought I show ignorance, or misread something. Probably stanzas would have helped a poor soul like me.

*Heartv*
My favorite line had one misstep. Or maybe not.
It's lushness brimming, full of winnings.
At first I thought the line was referring to [future fine], which would be [Its]. But it could also read as a stand-alone. It is lushness brimming. Please forgive me for questioning.

*Tulipr*
I'm so dragged down and worn out, the poem should have been an inspiration. And I'm sure to many, that's true. Maybe on a different day, when I wasn't feeling gloomy, the words would have uplifted me. The entire poem shouts with joy, no hesitation, completely confident in success.

Oh, I just found myself. I'm the [faint of heart]. It's that old cliche. Cliches serve a purpose. They immediately connect with the reader. In a poem, I would have liked to see something original, but all the other lines were inspired and jubilant. So, even if the poem left me flat, it's not your fault, at all. I'm hoping for a sunny day. Not a real sunny day, because in Florida the sunshine punishes.

Did this review fall to darkness? Gosh, I hope not. Anniversaries are for celebrations. *Partyhatr*

~Nixie




*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
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Review of My Mary  
Review by Nixie
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Hi Bikerider. Nixie dropping by with a belated anniversary review. I say it's an anniversary month, not just one day. Therefore, by my logic, this review is timely. *Laugh*

HAPPY 11th WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM
*CakeB* "Anniversary Reviews" *CakeB*



*Giftr*
Anniversary reviews are so cool. I hop over to someone's port, and end up struggling to find something I've never reviewed before. Figures, I chose one already reviewed by me. But 'My Mary' had a whimsical note that invited me in.

I don't know you, but if I did, I'd say 'you old softy'. lol. Such wondrous romance was captured in the rose's petals. The repetition of 'My Mary' brought the story closer to my heart. Those words repeated throughout the story demonstrated the husband's feelings.

The story was a sensory delight, maybe a little sappy. However, you prepared the reader by providing the correct genres. We were alerted from the beginning how this would all end in tragedy. At times, I wondered if your write was non-fiction, but I checked your bio and resolved that question.

I don't like nitpicking anniversary reviews. You know, spoiling the joyous celebration and all that. A few tiny errors caught my eye. It's not worth saying more. I like to explain my rating, that's all.

And, in answer to the final question? Of course it's possible. *Heartv*

~Nixie




Signature for use by anyone nominated for a Quill Award in 2020
best reviewing

"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" 


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .
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