StephBee's (sgcardin) Reviews

Review Requests: ON
5,080 Public Reviews Given
5,304 Total Reviews Given
Review Style
I try to come at a review from an editor's point of view. I look at: what I liked, perspective, tense, mechanics, does the opening hook me, show vs telling, and I try to offer suggestions. I always strive to be honest without being unkind.
Favorite Genres
Romance/Love, Action/Adventure, History, Military, Fantasy, Mainstream style stories.
Least Favorite Genres
I don't do dark stuff and I'm not into shrinking stories.
Favorite Item Types
Poetry, Word Searches, Quizzes
I will not review...
Shrinking stories, Romance/Erotica stories that make me feel uncomfortable.
Public Reviews
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Review of Who Will Care For You?  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*BookmarkG* I found this item using the Read & Review feature.

*Reading* THE POEM

The poem was a heartbreaking look at one's life in old age.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

I thought this was a realistic and heartbreaking look at what Alzheimer's can do to the mind and I thought the author took a lot of care to depict this condition in a kind and humane manner.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a poem with 9 quatrains and an AABB rythme scheme.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "To him it’s cold outside, even though it’s mid May. Snow covers the ground, yet the sun shines each day.," I selected this verse because it sums up the distortion of the mind when one is dealing with Alzheimers. I felt sad because this condition not only touches those who suffer with it, but the caregivers who provide care.

*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening paints an easy picture that lures one in and the easy rythmes keep the reader comfortable as they progress through the poem. Even though the poem was written in 2010, it's still relevant now, 16 years later. Honest and heartbreaking.

I have no suggestions for improvement.

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From The Angel Army Reviewer of the Month, APR 2024
252
252

Review of Alice  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.


*Reading* THE POEM

A poem about the rabbit hole and what you might find when you go down it.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

The whole poem is one big metaphor which I enjoyed. Curiosity might take you down different paths when you go down the rabbit hole, but if you need a guide - just ask Alice.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a free form poem with no set rythme scheme, but there are rythmes.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML to enhance the presentation. I discovered a nice, rhythmic beat when I read the poem out loud.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "When searching for questions In crystalline palace The answer’s transparent" First, there's a nice rhythmic follow here. Second, we're all curious, we all search for answers for all kinds of things - life - where's my dog - what should I watch on TV today - from the mundane to serious life questions. What's our crystalline palace like? is it strong or fragile? There's a lot of great food for thought with this. The poem will make you pause and think.


*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

I thought the title was clever and a good lure for the poem's fishing line. The opening starts with a great catchy hook and keeps you reading with the Alice in Wonderland metaphor. I've found writing is reflective of the times, yet Alice in Wonderland is a classic fairytale that can weave through the threads. An intriguing poem that will resonate with readers.

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From The Angel Army Reviewer of the Month, APR 2024
253
253

Review of Storied Legacy  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with Steph Bee's Bee Hive  
Rated: 18+ | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*BookmarkG* I found this item through the Read & Review feature.

*NotepadY* This was amazing! That said, I wasn't sure what review format I wanted to use. It's listed as poetry, and yes, it is an amazing free form poem. I considered a "flash" fiction format, but ruled it out due to the structure. I finally decided I'd use my memoir format, as I feel this fits the writing the best.


*Reading* THE MEMOIR

A woman recounts the shoes she's lived in, as a young girl, a teenager, a young woman, going from extremes - being filthy rich and homeless.

*Smile* WHAT I LIKED

This is an amazing inspirational story of resilience and finding your own path. There's highs and lows, ups and downs that readers can connect with.

Another thing I liked was the use of metaphors to really tap into the reader's emotions and bring home the emotional meaning.

*Star* POV NARRATION/TENSE

This is told in the first person by an unnamed narrator. Good job with narration. Past tense is used appropriately.

*Star* THEME

For me, the main theme was be comfortable with your life which I think would go with finding your own authenticity. I would say there are secondary themes such as life lessons, coming of age, growth and resilience. All of these themes were addressed with an emotional honesty that keeps the reader engaged.

*Star* EMOTIONAL BEATS
How well does the emotional beat resonate with the reader? *Checkr* *Checkr* *Checkr* Great; *CheckR* *CheckR* Good; *Checkr* Okay.

*CheckR* *Checkr* *Checkr* There's a lot of straight up tough love here. The writing taps into the heartstrings.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

Upon first glance, the writing is a bit intimidating - it's long and appears verbose, but when you start reading, the author's voice, rich in tonal quality and honesty will have you reading right until the end. The writing came across as very sincere.

I especially liked this sentence:These days, I prefer not to wear shoes at all, but to tread gently on the footprints in the dust, knowing that I too, leave footprints behind me. - Sometimes shoes don't fit us at all - but walking lightly and leaving a footprint leaves a bigger impression that you think.

I honestly can't think of a suggestion/constructive criticism thought after reading this. If anything and this is minor, take the bold off the font and just increase the font size. I know - minor.

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254

Review of My Muse  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (4.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE POEM

The poem was about the influence of a muse.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

Oh those muses can be fickle, can't they? This poem captured every feature of that fickleness.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a free form poem with 2 stanzas.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML to enhance the presentation.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "Muse makes believe with us, so our minds play with hope," Nice word play here. We all hope our muse is in the mood to make believe with us and hope is the driving force of human nature.


*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening is very intriguing and lures the reader in - encouraging them to discover what else they're up to. This a poem that will make the reader examine the power of their muse.

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Review of PlayOff Insanity  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (4.5)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

THE WORD SEARCH

*Reading* A word search about the 2025-6 American Football season.

*Smile* WHAT I LIKED

This was a fun word search and I enjoyed looking for the different teams.

*Star* ENGAGING

I was very engaged. Every word was a challenge to find.

*Star*VARIETY

There were a lot of good choices that stayed on theme with the puzzle!

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

I might suggest using a graphic or a giphy in the introduction to amp up the theme of the puzzle. Overall, lots of fun and very timely for the end of the season! *Football*

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256

Review of Me and a Lion ... Up Close and Personal  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (4.5)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*BookmarkB* I found this story using the Read & Review feature.



*Reading* THE STORY

The author has a chance to see and pet a Lion up close.

*Smile*WHAT I LIKED

I enjoyed the reverent, conversational tone of the story. It touched my heartstrings.

*Star* POV NARRATION/TENSE

This is told in the first person by the author. Past tense is used in the story.

*Star*DIALOGUE

The dialogue accents the narration.

*Star*OPENING PARAGRAPH

The opening paragraph talks a little bit about the author's personality and why he/she would be attracted to go on a safari.

*Star*CHARACTERS

The author of the story has an amazing sense of curiosity and reverence which warms the heart.


*Star*FLOW & PACING

The opening was a tad slow, but the conversational voice keep the reader engaged. The middle picks up the pack and the ending packs a rewarding punch.

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not notice and spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML to enhance the presentation.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

The title describes the story and what to expect. The story is full of awe and wonder.

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Review of Destiny  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: 13+ | (4.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*BookmarkG* I found this story on the Read and Review.



*Reading* THE STORY

Jack has to fix another problem his brother, Jeremy, got into.

*Smile*WHAT I LIKED

I liked Jack. He was a pretty steady character and had a good heart. Jeremy and Destiny were adorable.

*Star* POV NARRATION/TENSE

This is told in the first person by Jack. Past tense is used in the story.

*Star*DIALOGUE

The dialogue and narration were a good mix. If anything I might sharpen up my dialogue tags. For example as written:

“And then what?” I asked, noticing the troubled look on Jeremy’s face.

My suggestion: "And then what?" I crossed my arms and noticed the troubled look on Jeremy's face.


*Star*OPENING PARAGRAPH

The opening paragraph piques the reader's curiosity. Why does Jeremy need money?


*Star*CHARACTERS

Jack and Jeremy. Jeremy is involved with the mob, but he's in over his head despite having a good heart. Jack is a fixer. Both are likable in their own charming way.


*Star*FLOW & PACING

The opening set up the problem, the middle fleshed out the dilemma and the ending turned out well, considering.

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not notice and spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML to enhance the presentation.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

The title is a good fit the story. There's two ways to take "Destiny" in this story and it plays out well. Overall, this is a good character driven story with an ending that will satisfy.

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From The Angel Army Reviewer of the Month, APR 2024
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Review of Close Call  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (4.5)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*BookmarkG* I found this story through Read & Review.

*Reading* THE STORY

A couple of teenagers try to hide some stuff they pilfered in the teacher's office.

*Smile*WHAT I LIKED

Great job putting the reader in the moment with Joby and Zak trying to hid their pilfered stuff.

*Star* POV NARRATION/TENSE

This is told in the 3rd person omniscient. Past tense is used in the story.

*Star*DIALOGUE

The dialogue drives the narration. It does a good job building suspense and tension.

*Star*OPENING PARAGRAPH

The opening paragraph puts the reader in the heart of the dilemma, trying to hide the goods.

*Star*CHARACTERS

The Joby and Zak are likable teenagers and Mr. Gomp is just want you expect. Well done.


*Star*FLOW & PACING

The opening set up the problem, the middle did a good building tension and end did a great job hiding the goods plus adding a comedic twist.

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not notice and spelling mistakes. I might suggest a minor edit for dialogue quotes.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

The title fits the story. This light hearted vignette will put you in the moment with the teens and leave you with a smile.

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Reviewer of the Month for August 2025 at the Angel Army
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259

Review of The Last Spin  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (4.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE POEM

The circle of life as seen through a carnival.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

There's a lot going on here! I liked the carnival comparison because life can have some crazy ups and downs from the fun house to clowns. The Ferris wheel is discussed in the first stanza and the wheel is mentioned in the last bringing it full circle. If anything, I took away a sense of growth after that life adventure.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a free form poem with no apparent rythme scheme.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "A maiden’s voyage into a carnival of faces." I liked this description because it's brief and succinct, and it's a good "framing" one at the start of the poem. The person at the carnival of life is new and they have to figure out the "faces" (people) before them.

*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening intrigues the reader.. The title is a good fit for the poem. The ride on this poem was a bit wild so I was happy to leave the carnival unscathed.

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Review of Becoming Shepherd  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (4.5)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE STORY

Benjamin Crosby doesn't have an easy life, but he knows how to roll with the blows.

*Smile*WHAT I LIKED

Ben aka "Shepard" came across as a leader with a heart.

*Star* POV NARRATION/TENSE

This is told in the 3rd person omnisicent. Past tense is used in the story.

*Star*OPENING PARAGRAPH

The opening paragraph offers an intriguing statement - that Benjamin only meant to be useful. The reader is curious as to how he will grow into the role.


*Star*CHARACTERS

Benjamin aka Shepard is a stand up guy who lives for the military. He's taken some hard knocks in life. I especially liked his quiet inspiration for the candidate that was struggling.


*Star*FLOW & PACING

The opening is an okay set up for the story. The voice is strong and the reader is introduced to Shepard through vignettes of his life. All of the vignettes could be fleshed out into stories of their own. The story did end on a note that the story was over. If anything it was a solid character sketch that could easily be deepened into a fuller story.

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not notice and spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML to enhance the presentation.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

The title fits the story. The story has a lot of character to it. There's a lot of potential here to grow it into a bigger story.

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Angel Army Reviewer of the Month for FEB 2025
261
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Review of Light The Way  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE POEM

I found this poem to be inspirational in a day-to-day way. Sometimes the little gestures of kindness we offer can go a long way.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

The little gestures can be small - a smile. An offer of assistance when someone has their hands full. A simple thank you, when you bring pizza for the whole watch. The introduction to the poem really lays out the foundation for what to expect.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a poem with 7 stanzas and an AA__ rythme scheme for the first 6 stanzas. The last stanza has a AABB rythme scheme. I liked that in that it brought home and reinforced the message of the poem.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "Be the lantern—let love burn. A heart once lost might now return." I found this passage very inspirational and empowering. There's a lot of strong emotion here and the metaphor of the lantern is one people can relate to.


*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The introduction discusses some of the heart behind the poem and did a good job setting the theme. The title is a nice, descriptive fit for the poem. I enjoyed the heart of the poem.

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Reviewer of the Month for August 2025 at the Angel Army
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262

Review of Touched By The Wings Of An Angel  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE POEM

For me, the poem was about faith.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

The title implies the poem has to do with Angels, and the first stanza gives you that vibe. The second stanza leaves the poem up to your interpretation. I think one could relate it to good feelings a friend left behind who is now an angel, which requires faith.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a poem with two stanzas with no structured rythme scheme.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "Her prayer fluttered against my face, Quietly she passed by me" I loved the reverent emotional tone of this description. I would think feeling a light flutter of angel wings across the cheeks would be comforting.

*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening invites the reader in with a flutter and keeps them reading. The title is a nice fit for the poem. A heartwarming painting with words.

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Review of Raw Reminder  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: ASR | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE POEM

The poem has a nature backdrop against emotions that linger - memories that remain and perhaps a shared experience that had a sharp bite.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

Excellent word play to tease the reader's senses and emotions.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a pantoum poem. A pantoum poem can be any length, but all the stanzas are 4 lines where the 2nd and 4th lines of of each stanza serve as the 1st and 3rd lines of the next stanza. The last line brings home the poem and is usually the same as the first.

I am one who appreciates repetition and I like to use when appropriate in my own poetry. I like the pantoum because of this style of repetition.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "A recollection flowering with pain, You're the one who shatters my defense," The descriptions here are more emotional in nature and tug on the heartstrings. For me, the recollection hints at unsettling memory, caused by someone who is close to my heart.


*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening invites the reader in with an intriguing metaphor, unyielding waves allude to unyielding memories. The title is a descriptive fit for the poem. I enjoyed how the poem made me slow down to taste it.

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Angel Army Reviewer of the Month for FEB 2025

264
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Review of Fried Pickles  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with Anniversary Reviews Group  
Rated: E | (5.0)
Anniversary Reviews email siggie


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


*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

THE RECIPE

*Reading* This is a recipe for Fried Pickles.

*Smile* WHAT I LIKED

Mind you, I'm picky about my pickles but the husband and son like pickles and this recipe sound right up their alley, especially with the cajun seasoning so I'm going to try making it this weekend.

*Star* THE MIX

This mix of ingredients sounds like it would be a perfect mix for pickles. I especially like the cajun and seafood ingredients!

*Star*CAN I MAKE IT?

I sure can! The ingredients were simple and easily listed. The directions are easy to follow. Who knew you could make fried pickles in your house? I thought they were only at Fairs! *Blush*

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

My only suggestion here would be to offer a picture of the recipe once cooked. I'm a picture person. But again, this another "homey" recipe that can easily be made at the house and it's something I'd consider for a work potluck.

Thanks for Sharing!

Image #1256157 over display limit. -?-

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#1565040 by annetteMail Icon
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Review of Among the Branches  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE POEM

The poem was a nice tribute to birds.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

I loved the word painting of the birds, just hanging out and enjoying life on the branches.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a cinquain, a short unrhymed poem. The type of poem is explained in the item.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "Chirping, munching," These are two great action verbs which describe what birds do. Thy chirp, they munch. It's easy to see a bird just doing this and being happy.


*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening invites the reader in with an easy word - birdies. The title is a great fit for the poem. I enjoyed this poem for it's entertainment and it's teaching aspects.

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Angel Army Reviewer of the Month for FEB 2025
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Review of Forced into Being  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (4.5)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE POEM

The poem was about challenges and finding ways to manage those challenges.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

I liked the heartfelt finding that the Lord offers patience in challenging times. It made the poem very inspirational.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a free poem with no apparent rythme scheme.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "Love can lead to head-scratching, but faithfully, I trod –
A love so true and blessed as this, quite trustingly I nod,"
This is a vivid emotional release. For me it was "Let go and Let God." It's a very positive message.


*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening appeals to the reader by talking about the ins and outs of every day life. The title is an intriguing fit for the poem. I enjoyed the positive, uplifting message.
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Review Signature

267
267

Review of Christmas Past  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with Bard's Hall Group  
Rated: 13+ | (4.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE STORY

Rebecca wakes up not in the warm comfort of her bed, but in an old house years ago.

*Smile*WHAT I LIKED

I enjoyed the deep character voice. I felt like I was in the thick of the dilemma right along with Rebecca.

*Star* POV NARRATION/TENSE

This is told in the 3rd person limited in Rebecca's perspective. Past tense is used in the story.

*Star*OPENING PARAGRAPH

The opening paragraph starts with Rebecca waking up and finding out the world is not right. Her emotions spike as she makes this realization. As a reader, I wanted to find out more.


*Star*CHARACTERS

Rebecca is absolutely confused as to how this happened and so is the reader!


*Star*FLOW & PACING

The opening set up the problem, the middle set on a exploring that problem and end left Rebecca and the reader wondering what was going to happen.

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not notice and spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML to enhance the presentation of the story.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

The title fits the story. The story moves well to increase the mystery and Rebecca's dilemma. It's a good start for a longer story. Good luck in the Bard's Hall Contest.

Glowing Steph
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Review of Where Christmas Waited for Her  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with Bard's Hall Group  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE STORY

Maria woke up and found herself in the past - Pine Hallow, Massachusetts in 1843. As she goes through the story trying to find a way back, she has discovers she has choices to make.

*Smile*WHAT I LIKED

For being a "Flash Fiction," 1K words or less, I thought this story was really fleshed out well and the ending didn't feel rushed, but right in time with the pace of the story.

*Star* POV NARRATION/TENSE

This is told in the 3rd person limited from Maria's perspective. Past tense is used in the story.

*Star*DIALOGUE

The dialogue accents the narration.

*Star*OPENING PARAGRAPH

The opening paragraph sets up the dilemma - Maria is challenged to find that she isn't where she thought she would be.


*Star*CHARACTERS

Maria comes across with a range of emotions from genuine confusion, to "okay, I gotta' be here," to really questioning her motives. The characterization is spot on for a short story this size.


*Star*FLOW & PACING

The opening set up the problem, the middle dealt with how Maria dealt with the problem and end was spot on!

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not notice and spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML to enhance the presentation.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

The title fits the story. The story captured the goodwill and hope of the Christmas season well. Word count was listed IAW the rules. Good luck in the Bard's Hall Contest.

Glowing Steph
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Review of Mother, Will you be Mine?  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: ASR | (4.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*BookmarkG* I found this poem using the Read & Review feature on WDC.

*Reading* THE POEM

A poem about the challenges of motherhood.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

I can see the progression of life and how a child challenges their parents, here, i.e. their mother. The theme of the poem is posed with a rhetorical question.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a poem with 4 quatrains and no apparent rythme scheme.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "When you have grown old, And little ones call you Grandmother," This is an easy visual, as most picture their own grandmother. Still, the question stirs the heartstrings as one ponders why the poet has asked it.


*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening invites the reader in with their questioning and keeps them reading. The title fits for the poem. The poem is presented in a way to make the reader think about what it's like to be a mother.

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Review of Demon Slayer Kimetsu no Yaiba  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with Steph Bee's Bee Hive  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

THE WORD SEARCH

*Reading* This is a word search based of the Japanese Manga series, Kimetsu no Yaibu.

*Smile* WHAT I LIKED

I know hardly anything about Manga, but I found the presentation of the word search interesting and it piqued my curiosity.

*Star* ENGAGING

I was very engaged, especially with the words that had odd spellings to me. I was determined to find them.

*Star*VARIETY

There were a lot of good word choices that stayed on theme.

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

Great introduction! For someone with little knowledge, the introduction really did a lot to ease me into what to expect with this word search. It made the sale, so to speak and send me in 'cold turkey.' If you enjoy the manga genre, I think you'll enjoy this word search!

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Review of Possibles  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*BookmarkG* I found this item by using the Read & Review feature on WDC.

*Reading* THE POEM/PROSE

The poem/prose told a story about a turkey hunter who had a perfect shot, but finds something else instead.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

I loved the warmhearted story that the prose told. There was a lot of character depth, not only in our hunter, but in the turkey and the hunter's wife as well.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a free form poem with no rythme scheme. For me, it was more prose-y, but the prompt it was written was for a poem.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML to enhance the presentation of the item.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "A tom unfurled his splendor, opening to perfect shot. Head up, his beard chest long, alert." What I liked about this description was how totally encompassing it was. It's easy to visualize - a turkey his plummage spread, unknowing the hunter is nearby, full of pride - "come get it me," it dares.


*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening invites the reader in and keeps them reading with the turkey call. The reader's right there with our turkey hunter, like a quiet visitor, just watching and experiencing all the emotion right along with him. The title is a good fit for the poem. I enjoyed the journey and was in the moment right along with our hunter. The ending was honest, and raw, and heartwarming.

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Review of Raggedy Ann and Andy  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with Steph Bee's Bee Hive  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

THE WORD SEARCH

*Reading* This word search has a Raggedy Ann and Andy theme.

*Smile* WHAT I LIKED

I liked the introduction and the offer of a merit badge (with a fee, just FYI). The introduction did a great job setting the theme and expectations of the puzzle.

*Star* ENGAGING

I was very engaged in finding the words. If you didn't know a lot about about these dolls, it just might pique your interest.

*Star*VARIETY

There were a lot of good choices that stayed on theme and over *Target2*

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML in the introduction to enhance the presentation.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

Overall, a fun puzzle! If you enjoy puzzles, you'll enjoy this one!

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Review of TWO A.M.  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with Steph Bee's Bee Hive  
Rated: ASR | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE POEM

A poem about Writing.com - it's pros and cons.

*Idea* WHAT I LIKED

The poem shares a lot of heart about what it's like to be "present" at Writing.com. Written over 22 years ago, Writing.com really allows authors to explore different facets of writing, from flash fictions to novels, to poems. We've all been up late just getting one more poem up, one more review up, and even just organizing our ports. All pros. Our con is staying up to 2 a.m. *Laugh* when we should be in bed.

*Star* STRUCTURE

This is a poem with 9 quatrains and an AABB rythme scheme.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML to enhance the presentation.

*Star* DESCRIPTIONS

I liked: "I often picture other writers, Gifted, clever and all-nighters;" This is easy enough to picture - a tired writer, eyes droopy and glassy, coffee or Red Bull at the ready (and maybe even a cigarette) yet totally focused on the screen or the pen and paper. The number one emotion that comes through for me is admiration for those who power through.


*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening invites the reader in and keeps them reading with it's catchy beat and with a subject we all can relate to. The title is a nice fit for the poem. A moving tribute to the staying power of Writing.com

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Review of You owe your rights to Christianity  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with Steph Bee's Bee Hive  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE ESSAY

A look at human rights, freedom, and equality.

*Smile* WHAT I LIKED

I thought this was a well reasoned, persuasive argument regarding the beginning of human rights and the concept of "all men are created equal."

*Star* POV NARRATION/TENSE

This is told in the third person omnisicent. Good job with narration. Past tense is used appropriately.

*Star* THEME

The theme involved an examination of where human rights began. While the western words looks to writers like Voltaire and Locke, the author offers a concept which is a deeper one, coming from Christian roots and faith.

*Star* EMOTIONAL BEATS
How well does the emotional beat resonate with the reader? *Checkr* *Checkr* *Checkr* Great; *CheckR* *CheckR* Good; *Checkr* Okay.

*CheckR* *Checkr* *Checkr* I think the writer gives the reader food for thought.

*Star* MECHANICS

I did not spot any spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML to stress points.

*Star* PARTING THOUGHTS/SUGGESTIONS

The opening paragraph invites the reader to consider the rhetorical question where does our human rights come from - it's not where you think it does. The ending is poignant and thought provoking and I hope gives the reader pause to think.

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Review of 3i Atlas  

Review by sgcardinMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Note1* My review is based on professional editing points. It is meant to be honest, encouraging, and respectful in accordance with WDC guidelines.

*Reading* THE STORY

Ralph has the answer to 3iAtlas.

*Smile*WHAT I LIKED

I loved the ending. It landed on the perfect comedic note!

*Star* POV NARRATION/TENSE

This is told in the 3rd person omnisicent. Past tense is used in the story.

*Star*DIALOGUE

The dialogue drives the narration.

*Star*OPENING PARAGRAPH

The opening paragraph puts the reader in the heat of the action with Ralph's unkempt appearance. Something is going on and it's happening RIGHT NOW. Well done.


*Star*CHARACTERS

Ralph and Jeff. Ralph is all in on the 3iAtlas hype. Jeff, well maybe not so much. Reminded me of the two muppet judges/critics Statler and Waldof. *Laugh*


*Star*FLOW & PACING

The opening set up the problem, the middle hyped up the anticipation and the ending landed with a chuckle.

*Star*MECHANICS

I did not notice and spelling/punctuation mistakes. Good use of WDC ML.

*Star*PARTING THOUGHTS

The title is representative of the story and reflective of the theme. Short sentences help to drive up the suspense. We're dying to know what Ralph is going to say. The ending is perfect. There's a lot of speculation out there about 3iAtlas - and honestly, it is what it is. Nothing wrong with having some fun with it.

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