\"Writing.Com
*Magnify*
SPONSORED ITEMS
BY ONLINE AUTHORS
Printed from https://www.writing.com/main/profile/reviews/teegate
Review Requests: ON
84 Public Reviews Given
84 Total Reviews Given
Review Style
My approach is balanced and constructive. I begin by highlighting what works well in a piece—what captured my attention, moved me, or felt particularly well written. When needed, I provide suggestions for improvement, which may include identifying spelling or punctuation issues, or noting where adjustments could improve rhythm and readability. I sometimes comment on passages that might be unclear or seem out of place, always with the intent of helping the author strengthen their expression and flow. For me, the heart of good writing lies in its emotional resonance. I often ask, “Did you feel it?” or “How did it make you feel?”—not because the writer instructed the reader to feel a certain way, but because the words themselves created a genuine emotional response.
I'm good at...
Although I am not a professional reviewer, I enjoy writing reviews on Writing.com as a way to support and encourage other writers. Sharing what I appreciate about a piece allows me to give back some of the kindness and insight others have offered through their feedback on my own work. A manuscript editor I once worked with often reminded me, “Less is more.” That advice has helped me, as finding the right balance between expression and restraint is one of the greatest challenges of writing.
Favorite Genres
I like reading almost anything but if it is too graphic, I wouldn’t be interested. I reserve the right to turn down a review request for any reason. Thanks.
Favorite Item Types
romance, anything about wolves, heartwarming, kind, I just love to read.
Least Favorite Item Types
Over 2000 words, anything to scary, I am not really into the new out of the world kind of out of space and science fiction that is really over the top, I like realistic ideas, I will keep an open mind if I can, if not I will turn down the review.
I will not review...
I reserve the right to refuse any review without explanation. This, in essence, is my reviewing philosophy: to respond with honesty, respect, and appreciation for the art of storytelling, while offering thoughtful suggestions that may help the writer refine their craft. I have been an editor and will point out things that need to be corrected if you ever want to get published. Don't worry I believe in being kind and will honor your work.
Public Reviews
<   1  2  3   >
1
1
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: ASR | (5.0)
Review of: Forever

This poem brought tears to my eyes. It’s one of those pieces where the love is so present, so genuine, that you can feel it in every line. There’s a quiet tenderness here that feels lived-in and real, not imagined or exaggerated.

I was especially touched by how naturally the devotion unfolds—from that first glance to a lifetime of shared moments. Nothing feels rushed or forced. Instead, it reads like someone sitting with memory, gratitude, and deep affection, letting the words come from the heart rather than the page.

The imagery of sitting in the ancient tree at the beginning sets such a gentle, reflective tone, as if the speaker is holding time still for a moment. And the way love is described—not as possession, but as partnership, friendship, and shared endurance—feels beautiful and honest.

This is a love poem in the truest sense. It honors commitment, tenderness, and the quiet strength of choosing someone again and again. Thank you for sharing something so personal and heartfelt. It stayed with me long after I finished reading.

It is just so beautiful.

Kind wishes,
Tee
just another sig for Angel Army Reviews


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
2
2
Review of The Silent Owl  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)

First of all, congratulations on taking first place—this story absolutely deserves it.

This is the kind of children’s story that stays with you long after the reading ends. It’s gentle, protective, and filled with quiet magic, the kind that feels real rather than flashy. From the very beginning, Noah and Titus feel like children we know—especially Titus, whose tenderness and sensitivity are handled with such care and respect. The way you describe him, talking to dandelions and befriending squirrels, immediately sets the tone and makes him lovable in an authentic way.

What I loved most is how the story addresses something difficult—bullying—without ever becoming heavy or frightening for young readers. Instead, you wrap it in warmth, safety, and reassurance. Grey the owl is a beautiful creation: mysterious, calm, and protective without being violent or scary. He feels exactly right for a child’s imagination—strong enough to help, gentle enough to trust.

The bond between the cousins is another standout. Noah’s instinct to protect Titus, and Titus recognizing that same protection in Grey, is such a powerful and affirming moment. It quietly tells children that kindness and protection can take many forms, and that being watched over doesn’t always mean being seen.

I also love how the story leaves room for wonder. Grey doesn’t need explanations. He doesn’t need rules or origins. He simply is. That restraint is one of the story’s greatest strengths and makes the ending especially lovely. “Because some guardians don’t need words. Some just need wings.” That line is perfect.

You can feel how much love and intention went into this—both in the writing and in the way you engage with WDC as a whole. This is a story written by someone who truly cares about young readers, about storytelling, and about the power of gentle imagination. It’s exactly the kind of children’s story I love to read and love to write myself.

Thank you for sharing something so tender and meaningful. This win feels well-earned, and I hope this story finds many little listeners and readers who need it.

Kind wishes,
Tee
just another sig for Angel Army Reviews


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
3
3
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
Dear Jeannie,
This was such a joy to read. Not just because of the article itself, but because of the spirit behind it. Your intention to spread joy, to truly see writers and let them know their work matters, comes through so clearly—and that is something special.

What resonated most with me is how closely your feelings mirror my own when it comes to reviewing. There is something deeply meaningful about letting someone know their words were read, felt, and appreciated. Writers put their innermost thoughts and emotions on the page, often with courage and vulnerability, and to have those efforts acknowledged can mean more than we sometimes realize.

I love to review, too. When I read something that moves me, I feel compelled to tell the author why it mattered, what stood out, and how it made me feel. Reviews don’t just encourage; they help writers grow, and they remind them they’re not creating in a vacuum.

Reading your reflections on how your reviewing journey began brought back so many familiar feelings. That moment of discovering WDC and realizing you’ve found a home. The excitement of reading everything you can get your hands on. The gradual shift from leaving quick notes to wanting to give more thoughtful, meaningful feedback. I recognize all of that.

Your experience joining groups, learning tools, and finding your rhythm as a reviewer shows how intentional you’ve been about this process. You didn’t just stumble into reviewing—you chose it. You took the time to think about what you would want to know as a writer and built your reviews around that generosity of spirit. That shows.

I also loved reading about how you found Showering Acts of Joy. It feels fitting that a group built around encouragement and kindness found you the way it did. Pat’s warmth, creativity, and openness clearly made an impression on you, just as you’ve made an impression on others since joining. The sense of community you describe—authors supporting authors, joy rippling outward—feels like the very heart of what WDC can be at its best.

What really stands out is how much care you bring to every review. Noticing strong openings. Calling out vivid descriptions. Gently pointing out things that could be improved. Offering encouragement to newcomers who are still finding their footing. That balance—honest, thoughtful, kind—is a gift.

You’re absolutely right: reviewing creates a beautiful domino effect. When an author feels seen, the reviewer feels fulfilled, and the community grows stronger. That’s the joy you’re talking about, and you’re clearly living it.

Thank you for sharing this, not just as an article, but as a reminder of why reviewing matters. Your motivation is pure, your generosity is evident, and your love for this community shines through every word. This was a pleasure to read, and a joy in itself.

Kind wishes,
Tee
Little fairy for WDC sig


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
4
4
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (4.5)


This is a really lovely poem, and it’s easy to see how long you’ve been writing. There’s a natural rhythm to your lines and a strong sense of affection and wonder that runs all the way through it. The repetition of “I am in love with the girl next door” works beautifully as an anchor, giving the poem both structure and emotional consistency.

What stands out most is how vividly you paint her as a real, imperfect, human person. The small details—Converse and Vans, fogged glasses, losing a wallet, getting songs stuck in her head—are what make this feel honest and relatable. Those moments are where your voice really shines, because they feel observed rather than imagined.

I also love the gentleness of your tone. There’s admiration here without putting her on an unreachable pedestal. The speaker’s vulnerability, especially near the end, adds emotional depth and maturity that feels very genuine. The idea of loving someone while seeing yourself as “nothing more” than a vision is quietly heartbreaking in a way that lingers.

If I had one small suggestion as you continue to grow as a poet, it would be to trust your strongest images and let them breathe. Some lines are so good that they don’t need to be explained or followed by another thought right away. Giving them a little space can make them land even harder.

You have a clear sense of rhythm, a strong emotional compass, and a gift for noticing the beauty in everyday moments. That combination is something special. Please keep writing. Pieces like this show real promise, and it’s exciting to imagine where your voice will take you next.

Welcome to WDC, and thank you for sharing something so heartfelt.

Little fairy for WDC sig


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
5
5
Review of Solar rider  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (4.0)

Review of: Solar Rider

This poem carries a strong sense of determination and inner fire from beginning to end. The imagery of heat, thirst, and isolation is vivid and consistent, and it creates a clear emotional landscape that mirrors the rider’s internal struggle. I could feel the relentless sun and the exhaustion of the journey, which made the endurance at the heart of the poem feel earned rather than abstract.

What works especially well is the steady forward momentum. Each stanza reinforces the idea of persistence, and the repetition of hardship followed by resolve gives the poem a powerful rhythm. Lines like “just the fire inside” and “my strength was mine alone to make” speak to a deep sense of self-reliance and quiet courage.

I also appreciate how the poem never asks for sympathy. Instead, it stands firmly in resilience. The final stanza brings that message home beautifully, showing transformation rather than defeat. The rider isn’t just surviving the journey—they are shaped by it.

Overall, this is a confident, focused piece with a clear voice and purpose. It reads like a declaration of strength and self-belief, and that energy carries through every line. Keep writing—there’s a strong presence here, and it’s compelling to read.

Little fairy for WDC sig


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
6
6
Review of Construct  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)

Thank you for sharing this. It’s rare to read something that feels so inward, so deliberate, and so unguarded. Even knowing this was written for therapeutic reasons, the piece stands on its own as a deeply immersive experience. It doesn’t feel like it’s trying to impress or perform. It feels like it’s trying to understand itself.

The repetition of “The climb is not arduous but it is long” works beautifully. It becomes a quiet refrain that mirrors both the physical journey and the internal one, grounding the reader while also creating a sense of inevitability. The landscape is vivid and almost oppressive in its silence, and that silence feels intentional. The absence of birds, of voices, of reassurance adds to the unease in a way that feels honest rather than manufactured.

What struck me most was the sense of dislocation—the feeling of being present in a body and a place, yet not fully belonging to either. Lines like “This place is unnatural. I am unnatural. And I do not belong here” carry real weight. They don’t feel symbolic so much as lived-in, as though the words were discovered rather than written.

The imagery is rich without being ornamental. The dampness, the mud, the spores, the chill wind—all of it contributes to a physicality that keeps the reader anchored even as the narrator questions their own existence. And the ending, looping back to the beginning, feels right. It doesn’t resolve the experience, but it completes it. The cycle continues, as it often does in our inner lives.

You mentioned that this may not be “good,” but I would gently disagree. It may not be polished in a traditional sense, but it is authentic, cohesive, and deeply felt. Sometimes the most meaningful writing isn’t meant to be fixed or refined—it’s meant to be witnessed. This piece speaks quietly, but it speaks clearly, and it stayed with me after I finished reading.

Welcome to WDC. I truly hope you continue to write and share here. Your voice is thoughtful and compelling, and if this piece is any indication, you have more worth saying. Please keep going—your words matter more than you may realize.

Kind wishes,
Tee

just another sig for Angel Army Reviews


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
7
7
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: ASR | (4.0)

Review of: Echos Across the Stars

This is a strong and intriguing piece, and what stands out most is how quickly you establish atmosphere and tension. The opening drops us right into a familiar sci-fi framework—procedure, suits, protocols—then quietly destabilizes it by placing that framework inside something deeply ordinary: a suburban neighborhood. That contrast works beautifully and immediately raises questions.

The emotional core is where this really shines. Isaac’s internal conflict, especially the gradual revelation that this is his childhood home, is handled with restraint and confidence. You don’t rush the reveal or overexplain it. Instead, you let memory, unease, and small details do the work, which makes the story feel grounded and believable even as it moves into the uncanny.

Your dialogue is natural and effective. The back-and-forth between Isaac and Peters feels authentic, and it serves multiple purposes at once: characterizing both men, reinforcing tension, and keeping the pace moving. Peters’ casual humor against Isaac’s rigidity helps highlight Isaac’s internal struggle without spelling it out.

The attic sequence is especially well done. The slow buildup, the creaking floorboards, the dropped ladder, and the uncertainty of whether someone else is present are handled with excellent control. You let the reader experience the fear alongside Isaac, and the final image—the child in the blue windbreaker—is haunting and memorable. It lands quietly, which makes it even stronger.

If I were to offer a gentle suggestion, it would be to watch for a few small technical slips (minor typos and occasional phrasing issues) that slightly interrupt the flow. A careful proofread would elevate the piece even more. You might also consider lingering just a touch longer on Isaac’s emotional reaction at the end; the moment is powerful enough to carry a bit more internal weight.


If I were to honestly help you to get this ready for publication this would be my editor notes to you:
Spelling & Typographical Errors
1. “neighrbood” → neighborhood
2. “lightyears” → light-years (standard hyphenation)
3. “comm” / “comms” – used inconsistently
• Choose one and use it throughout (most sci-fi uses comms).
4. Extra space before punctuation
• Example: "I don’t know. ” → remove space before closing quote.

Point-of-View & Consistency Issues (we all struggle with this kind of POV challenge)
5. Isaac’s rank shifts
• He’s referred to as Commander, but later seems subordinate in tone.
• Clarify chain of command early and stay consistent.
6. Helmet logic inconsistency
• Peters removes his helmet before air is confirmed safe.
• Isaac scolds internally but does not immediately enforce protocol.
• Tighten this to maintain character consistency.

Timeline & Logic Gaps
7. Stasis recovery vs. memory clarity
• Isaac wonders about “space-craze,” but passes bioscan easily. Is bioscan written correctly? I am not sure if that is correct I guess it is one of those words that can be hyphenated but as one word it looks odd to me.
• Consider clarifying why memory recall is so vivid despite stasis.
8. Attic ladder mechanics
• It’s stated that it takes “immense strength” to pull down,
• But later it drops without explanation.
• This may be intentional mystery, but the language implies a contradiction.

Dialogue & Tag Issues - this may seem nit picky but an editor will point it out to you.
9. Dialogue punctuation
• Example:
"I don’t know. ” But he did know.
Should be split into cleaner sentences.
10. Overuse of dialogue tags

• Some lines don’t need tags when speaker is obvious.

11. Tone mismatch - easy to let happen but needs to be addressed

• Peters jokes (“Did you see a ghost?”) during high-tension moments.
• This works for character, but consider whether it undercuts tension.

Internal Thought Formatting
12. Internal thoughts are not consistently marked

• Example: Besides, why should I bother?
• Consider italics or clearer internal narration for consistency.
(This is a challenge we all deal with and recently it has me going a little nuts in my own writing.)
Most editors will suggest the Italics but I have been able to use the single ‘ punctuation successfully. It is an excepted practice more in British writing but I personally like it.)

Setting Clarity
13. House exploration sequence

• At times it’s unclear which room characters are in.
• Adding one or two grounding details would help spatial clarity.

14. Attic contents

• It’s stated the attic once held boxes, then it’s empty.
• This works thematically but could use one line of emphasis.
(Be aware that this sort of clarity will help with smoothing the internal picture for your reader.)

Ending Impact (Craft, Not Error - my polishing suggestion)
15. Final emotional beat

• The reveal of the child in the blue windbreaker is excellent.
• Isaac’s internal reaction is minimal.
• One additional internal line could deepen the impact.

I hope you find this helpful:
• Mostly minor technical errors
• Strong control of POV and atmosphere
• Needs a proofread + light tightening
• Story logic is solid; a few moments need clarification, not overhaul

Overall, this is a compelling blend of science fiction and psychological unease, with a strong sense of voice and control over pacing. You clearly trust your story, and that trust carries through to the reader. I’d be very interested to see where this goes next. Keep writing—this is solid, thoughtful work.

Keep up the good work.

Most kind wishes,
Tee

just another sig for Angel Army Reviews


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
8
8
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
Review of: The Sew~N~Sew Club


It is tender, heartfelt, and deeply personal. It reads like a quiet conversation shared across a kitchen table, filled with memory, gratitude, and love. What makes it work so well is its sincerity. You are not trying to impress the reader; you are simply telling the truth of your life, and that honesty carries real emotional weight.

The early scenes of the Tuesday sewing gatherings are especially lovely. The details of yarn, fabric, needles, and the companionship of your mother’s friends create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. I could clearly picture those women, their projects, and the sense of comfort and belonging they brought into your home. It’s a beautiful tribute not only to sewing, but to community and shared creativity.

I was particularly moved by the moment when you describe making the baby blanket for your teacher. That scene captures something universal: the joy of giving, the pride of creating something by hand, and the powerful affirmation that can come from being seen and praised. It’s a small moment in the story, but it shines brightly.

Your reflections on illness, work, and perseverance add depth and perspective. The way sewing weaves itself back into your life over the years feels organic and earned, not forced. I also appreciated your honesty about slowing down, while still holding onto creativity and purpose. That balance between acceptance and determination is quietly inspiring.

If I were to offer one gentle suggestion, it would be to consider smoothing a few transitions and tightening some sections for flow. The heart of the piece is strong, and a bit of light polishing could help the reader move more easily from one stage of your life to the next without losing momentum.

Overall, this is a loving tribute to your mother, to creativity, and to a life shaped by making things with care. The closing lines bring the story full circle in a way that feels sincere and earned. Thank you for sharing something so personal. It was a pleasure to read.

Kind wishes,
Tee

just another sig for Angel Army Reviews


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
9
9
Review of Mind Scrabble  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)

This is a review of: Mind Scrabble
This piece feels energetic and self-assured, with a strong rhythmic pulse running through it. The imagery of light, movement, and sound works nicely together, and the opening lines immediately set a tone that feels both vibrant and introspective. I especially like how the poem leans into motion and rhythm, it truly feels driven by that “beat of a drum” you reference.

There’s a confident philosophy woven through the poem, particularly in lines about self-expression, growth, and refusing comparison. Those moments give the piece its backbone and purpose, and they come across as empowering rather than preachy, which isn’t easy to achieve.

I also appreciate the balance between light and dark throughout. The flickering, the pauses, the forward and backward movement all feel honest and reflective of real internal change. That push and pull adds depth and keeps the poem from feeling flat.

If I had one gentle suggestion, it would be to consider where you might linger just a bit longer. Some of the ideas are strong enough to deserve more space, and expanding on one or two images could deepen the emotional connection for the reader. Right now, the momentum is strong, but giving a few moments room to breathe could make it even more impactful.

Overall, this is a thoughtful and expressive poem with a clear voice and message. You’re writing with confidence and intention, and that shows. Keep trusting your rhythm and your instincts, they’re leading you in the right direction.

Kind wishes,
Tee

Little fairy for WDC sig


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
10
10
Review of nonsense  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (4.0)

review of: Nonsense

This is a tender, emotionally open piece, and that vulnerability is its greatest strength. You write with sincerity, and it’s clear these words come from a genuine place rather than a desire to impress. That honesty gives the poem its heart.

Your imagery around light and warmth works well, especially the sun as a symbol of renewal and independence. The feeling of stepping into something brighter after leaving a painful relationship comes through clearly. Lines like needing the sun more than the person you’re addressing are simple but effective, and they convey growth without bitterness.

I also appreciate the conversational tone. Addressing “darling” gives the poem an intimate, personal feel, as if the reader is overhearing a private moment of clarity. That kind of voice is hard to fake, and you handle it naturally.

For growth, I’d encourage you to think about focus and consistency. You introduce several metaphors and references (Disney, Zootopia, birds, pearls, trains), all of which are interesting on their own, but together they sometimes compete for attention. Choosing one or two strong images and staying with them could make the emotional impact even stronger.

You might also look at line tightening. Some ideas are repeated in different ways, and trimming slightly could help the strongest lines stand out more. Trust your reader — you don’t have to explain every feeling for it to be felt.

Overall, this is a thoughtful and heartfelt piece, especially for a newer writer. You clearly have an emotional voice and an instinct for imagery. With a bit more focus and refinement, your work will grow even stronger. Keep writing — you’re on the right path.

And side note: Welcome to WDC I hope you will enjoy being here, we are delighted to have you.

Kind wishes,
Tee

Little fairy for WDC sig


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
11
11
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | N/A (Review only item.)

Review of: Just One Point Of View

This is a wonderful article, and one I wish I had read much earlier in my writing life. You explain point of view with clarity, patience, and respect for the reader, never talking down or oversimplifying a complex subject.

I especially appreciate how you ground the discussion in something familiar. The comparison between movies and fiction is immediately accessible, and it sets up the deeper conversation beautifully. By the time you move into the nuances of first person, third person limited, and omniscient, the reader is already oriented and ready to follow you.

The examples are where this piece truly shines. Seeing the same material presented first in an omniscient style and then rewritten in a close third person point of view makes the lesson unmistakably clear. The emotional difference between the two versions is striking, and you demonstrate rather than merely assert why “showing” is so powerful. That kind of clarity is a gift to writers.

I also admire how firmly yet kindly you address common pitfalls like head-hopping and over-description. Your explanation of why certain details don’t belong in a character’s immediate awareness is practical, memorable, and rooted in how people actually experience the world. It’s advice that sticks because it makes sense.

Most of all, this article respects the reader’s intelligence. You remind us that fiction is a partnership between writer and reader, and that the real magic happens inside the reader’s head. That perspective reframes point of view not as a technical rule, but as an artistic choice with emotional consequences.

This is an excellent teaching piece: clear, engaging, and generous. Thank you for taking the time to articulate something so fundamental so well. It’s the kind of article writers return to again and again.

Thanks for writing it.
Kind wishes,
Tee

This is my Angel Army signature. Image #2325341 over display limit. -?-


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
12
12
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (4.5)

Review of Charlie

I use to have a black cat so the photo is what drew me in…
Then I read the poem. Very touching.

This poem touched me deeply. It is simple, sincere, and full of love, and that is exactly what makes it so moving. You don’t try to dress the grief up in fancy language. You let it stand plainly on the page, just as it feels in the heart.

Your description of Charlie is especially tender. The image of his dark velvet body and reddish eyes is vivid, and the way you show his loyalty—walking you to the gate, waiting to receive you—beautifully captures the quiet devotion pets give without ever asking for anything in return.

I was particularly moved by the everyday moments you chose to include: playing together, touching his silky body, sleeping beside you. Those small details make the bond feel real and lived-in, not idealized. They show how deeply Charlie was woven into your daily life.

The ending is heartbreaking in its restraint. The garden resting place, the tears, and the refusal to replace him all feel honest and true. Anyone who has loved an animal will recognize this grief immediately. Your final prayer for Charlie’s soul closes the poem with gentleness and dignity.

This is a loving tribute and a sincere act of remembrance. Thank you for sharing Charlie with us.

Kind wishes,
Tee

This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
13
13
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)

Review of The Problem with Writing

This piece really spoke to me. You put words to a struggle that so many writers live with but rarely say out loud. The tension between loving the act of writing and feeling unable to stay with one idea long enough to shape it into a story is something I think most of us recognize immediately.

What I admire most here is your honesty. You don’t pretend to have answers, and you don’t hide behind cleverness. Instead, you let the reader sit with your questions, your doubts, and your genuine curiosity about storytelling itself. That openness is what gives this piece its strength. It feels real and deeply human.

Your thoughts on originality, genre, and the fear of reworking ideas that already exist are thoughtful and well expressed. Rather than sounding discouraged, you sound engaged and searching, which feels like a natural and necessary part of the creative process.

I also loved the personal touches, especially your memories of Garfield comics and wanting to be a cartoonist. Those moments ground the piece and quietly remind us that creativity often begins long before we know what to call it. There’s a beautiful continuity there, even if it doesn’t feel obvious yet.

By the end, the piece almost answers its own question. The fact that the words are “falling onto the page rather nicely” feels important. Maybe this reflection is the story for now. And maybe learning to trust that impulse is part of finding what will eventually stick.

This was thoughtful, relatable, and quietly encouraging. Thank you for sharing it.

⸻

A gentle suggestion, offered with respect

If you don’t mind, I’d like to share something that has helped me over the years.

Before you write, set up your space so you don’t have to leave it. Have something to drink, maybe something small to eat. Remove interruptions as much as you reasonably can. Whether that means music, silence, or a familiar ritual is entirely up to you.

Then give yourself one simple goal: write one thousand words.

They don’t have to be good. They don’t have to be a story. They don’t even have to make sense. The only rule is not to stop. Don’t fix grammar, don’t reread, don’t second-guess. Just let the words come until you reach the end of the count. Editing is a completely separate process and comes later.

From what you described, it sounds like interruption and decision-making are what break your focus. Even small choices like naming a character or choosing a setting can pull you out of the flow. When that happens to me, I change the order of things.

I start with a character. I write about who they are, how they live, and what surrounds them. As the character becomes clearer, a world naturally forms around them, and once that happens, story begins to suggest itself.

For early attempts, keeping things simple can help. Complexity grows naturally once you trust your own process.

I’ve spent a lifetime editing and reading the work of many writers, and the ones who finish stories tend to have one thing in common: they find a structure that works for their mind and they protect it.

I don’t know if this approach will suit you, but I encourage you to pay attention to how your own mind works and build a process that supports it rather than fights it.

You clearly love language. That matters more than you may realize.

Good luck, and kind wishes,
Tee


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
14
14
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: 13+ | (5.0)

This poem is like reading through multiple greeting cards. Wow! I simply love it and the way my mind works you made me picture those greeting cards. I could easily design around each stanza.
And side note... Welcome to WdC. I see you are a new member as of November 17th. I am glad to read your work. I have read a lot of what you have written including reviews of others. You have impressed me.

Okay, now for the nuts and bolts of a review of: The Light That Finds Us

This poem feels timeless in the best possible way.

Each stanza truly does stand on its own, like a small, complete blessing. I could easily see any one of them printed on a greeting card, framed with winter artwork, or shared on its own—and that’s not because they’re simple, but because they’re clear. Each verse delivers a full thought, a feeling, and a quiet moment of reflection without needing anything else to support it.

What I admire most is the inclusiveness of spirit here. You honor Christmas, Hanukkah, and the New Year without ever making the poem feel crowded or divided. Instead, it feels like a single warm room where different lights are glowing together. That’s not easy to pull off, and you do it gracefully.

Your imagery is gentle and comforting—snow whispering, lanterns glowing, candles rising steadily. Nothing is forced or overly ornate. The language invites the reader to slow down, breathe, and remember what these seasons are really about beyond the noise.

I especially love how the poem moves from outward celebration into inward reflection. Lines about kindness, forgiveness, healing, and fresh starts carry real weight, and they feel earned by the time we reach them. There’s wisdom here, but it’s offered softly, never preached.

Repeating the opening stanzas at the end works beautifully. It gives the poem a circular, almost meditative quality, like coming back to the beginning with a fuller heart. It leaves the reader wrapped in warmth rather than rushed toward an ending.

This is the kind of writing that comforts, that reminds people of goodness, and that lingers quietly. It’s lovely, sincere, and generous in spirit—and yes, each stanza really could be its own little gift.

Kind wishes,
Tee

This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
15
15
Review of The Wall We Share  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
found in Read and Review: The Wall We Share

This was not what I expected. First I don't usually review sports because I don't know enough to do a good job. However, you surprised me with this.

This piece is quietly heartbreaking, and that’s exactly why it works so well.

You capture the ache of growing distance with such restraint. Nothing dramatic has to happen for the loss to feel real. It’s in the missed passes, the closed doors, the almost-questions that never get asked. That emotional honesty makes the story linger long after the last line.

I love how basketball functions as both setting and language here. The pick and roll, the no-look pass, the rhythm of the bounce—those details aren’t just sports mechanics, they’re memory, habit, and connection. When that rhythm breaks, we feel it just as clearly as the narrator does. The repetition of “He was always there” is especially powerful. It starts as comfort and ends as quiet grief.

Your pacing is excellent. The short scenes, the white space, the way days blur together all mirror the narrator’s internal state. The Treasure Island thread is a lovely touch too. The question of fear—what it means to be afraid, or not—adds depth without ever feeling forced. It’s subtle and thoughtful.

The ending is perfect. Watching the brother run the same play, make the same cut, and finish the same way—only without him—lands like a punch you don’t see coming, even though you know it’s inevitable. That final image of the ball bouncing lower and lower until it stops is such a clean, devastating metaphor. You trusted the image to do the work, and it does.

This feels real in the best way. It’s about growing up, about losing someone without losing them entirely, and about realizing that timing can matter just as much as love. You handled all of that with care and maturity. I’m really glad I read this.

You did good!
Kind wishes,
Tee
This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
16
16
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
Oh Wow! This is so lovely it breathes.

This is such a gentle, lovely piece. It feels like a quiet breath taken in the middle of a beautiful day.

What I really appreciate is the sense of gratitude that runs through every line. There’s no rush here, no need to impress. You’re simply noticing the world and honoring it, and that makes the poem feel sincere and grounded. Lines like “count myself blessed to be awake” carry a quiet wisdom that lingers.

Your imagery is especially strong. The green of clover, blue of sky, pink heather beneath tall pines, I could see it all clearly without feeling overwhelmed by description. The rhythm flows naturally, almost like a walk through the landscape you’re describing.

I also love the way you move from nature into history. The transition to castles, saints, and sacred ground feels organic, as though the land itself is telling its story. There’s reverence there, but also warmth, a sense of belonging and longing rather than distance.

That final line is perfect. It gathers everything you’ve shown us and turns it into a simple, honest wish. By the end, I didn’t just understand why you’d love to be in Ireland, I felt it too.

This poem feels peaceful, reflective, and full of quiet joy. It’s the kind of writing that invites the reader to slow down and appreciate both the world and their place in it.

You do have a gift! You are so talented you should have your poems published. I would buy that book of poems.
Keep up the good work.

Kind wishes,
Tee
This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
17
17
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (4.5)

Review of: The MindForge

This is such a fascinating concept, and you handle it with confidence and clarity from the very first paragraph.

The idea of a game built directly from the subconscious is compelling on its own, but what really makes this work is how grounded and believable you make it feel. The technical explanations are clear without slowing the story down, and the pacing keeps everything moving while still letting the implications sink in. It feels less like science fiction for shock value and more like a natural evolution of where gaming and AI could actually go.

I loved the way you used different streamers to show the range of possibilities. Each example felt distinct and personal, and none of them overstayed their welcome. Zara’s distorted childhood memory, BlazeVortex’s surveillance fears, and IronPulse battling versions of himself were especially effective. Those moments made the technology feel intimate rather than abstract.

The cultural impact section is where this really shines for me. Turning gameplay into a form of emotional exposure is such a sharp observation about streaming culture. You’re not just writing about a game, you’re commenting on vulnerability, performance, and how much of ourselves we’re willing to put on display for an audience. That layer adds real depth.

NovaTide’s marathon was powerful and uncomfortable in the best way. The recursive world and the final boss speaking her doubts felt symbolic without being heavy-handed, and the reaction from the audience made that moment feel earned rather than sensationalized. It lingered with me after I finished reading.

Overall, this feels polished, imaginative, and thoughtful. You’ve taken a high-concept idea and given it emotional weight and social relevance. I genuinely felt pulled into this world, and by the end, it didn’t feel like speculation anymore, it felt inevitable. This is the kind of piece that makes readers think long after they’re done, and that’s a real accomplishment.

Kind wishes,
Tee

This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
18
18
Review of Dawn  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: 13+ | (5.0)
Review of : Dawn
I want you to know how deeply this piece stayed with me.

From the very first line, you pulled me straight into the wreckage, not just of a battlefield, but of a father’s heart. That opening exchange between the child and her father is devastating in the quietest way. “You broke it, Daddy” is one of those lines that lands softly and then keeps echoing long after you’ve read past it. That’s not easy to do.

What really moved me here is the restraint. You never over-explain the war, the politics, or the enemy, and you don’t need to. The emotional truth carries everything. The physical details, the bloody sun, the dust, the unhealed wounds, ground the story without overwhelming it. Every image feels chosen, not accidental.

The moment where he wraps her in the sheet absolutely broke my heart. It’s such a painful, tender act of love and fear. And then the reversal with the armistice is handled beautifully. You don’t rush it. The distrust feels earned, and the commander’s quiet exhaustion makes the peace feel fragile and human instead of triumphant.

That final image, the snowfall over scorched land, is perfect. It doesn’t promise everything will be okay, but it allows for hope, and that balance is hard to strike. You struck it.

Please keep writing pieces like this. You clearly understand how to tell a big story through a small, intimate lens, and that’s a rare skill. This wasn’t just a war story, it was a story about love, guilt, protection, and the terrible choices people make when they’re trying to do the right thing.

I’m really glad I got to read this.
kind wishes,
Tee
This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
19
19
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)


This was such a pleasure to read. I want to start by saying how confident and assured your storytelling feels right from the opening lines. You don’t rush. You trust the reader. And that trust pays off.

I was immediately grounded in the observation post. The physical discomfort, the isolation, the routines. All of it felt lived-in and believable. Your attention to practical detail, the suits, the temperature swings, the quiet bureaucracy of pressing buttons and keeping records, gives the science fiction weight and credibility without ever turning into an info dump. It feels natural, like this is just another workday at the edge of time.

What I really admired is how restrained the dialogue is. S—— and Y—— speak the way people do when they’ve worked together for a long time. There’s subtext everywhere. The pauses, the interruptions, the casual way they agree to change history. That understatement is powerful. You let the implications speak for themselves, and that’s not easy to pull off.

The transition into 1942 is especially well done. I loved the choice of location. A men’s room in a quiet bus station at two in the morning is such a grounded, human contrast to the sterile future post. The small period details, the handwriting on the stall door, the cleanliness, the hair oil, the feel of the clothes, all quietly anchor us in the time without calling attention to themselves. It feels authentic and unforced.

The moment with the old man is beautifully tense. Nothing dramatic happens, and yet everything feels risky. You captured that sense of danger that comes not from action, but from being seen. The internal awareness, the rules, the implant not being active, the calculations happening in S——’s head. That was one of my favorite parts. It’s subtle, smart, and very effective.

Overall, this reads like the opening of something thoughtful and carefully constructed. You’re clearly in control of your world and your pacing. I’m intrigued by the moral weight humming underneath the calm surface, and I absolutely want to know who this man on the screen is, and why his timeline matters so much.

Write on!
Kind wishes,
Tee


This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
20
20
Review of For Her Sake  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)

Review of: For Her Sake

This touched me deeply.
Your words don’t just grieve her, they carry her. There’s such quiet devotion here, such steadiness, as if love itself has become a vow you continue to live by.

What I find especially moving is how you honor her not through grand declarations, but through everyday acts. Taking care of yourself. Caring for the furbabies. Holding onto the wisdom she shared. Those choices say, she mattered, and she still matters. Love doesn’t end. It transforms into responsibility, remembrance, and purpose.

The repetition of “For Her Sake” feels like a heartbeat. It grounds the piece and reinforces that everything you do now is an extension of what you built together. And that final truth, that she lives on through you, lands gently but powerfully. It feels honest. It feels earned.

Thank you for sharing something so personal and tender. This is a beautiful way to honor the love of your life, and it reads like a promise kept.

Blessings and
Merry Christmas,
Tee

This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
21
21
Review of Color Me Slowly  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
I found this piece quietly devastating in the best way.

What stayed with me most was the restraint. Nothing is rushed. Nothing is explained away. The ordinary setting, a store, a bus stop, fluorescent lights, becomes a place of inward reckoning, and that contrast makes the emotional weight land even harder. I could feel the exhaustion in the small decisions, the way the world presses in while the character tries to stay invisible.

The paint is such a powerful choice. Color as comfort. Color as identity. Color as erasure and renewal all at once. The moment he dips his finger into the paint and traces it along his wrist felt intimate and unsettling, and deeply human. It wasn’t dramatic. It was necessary.

What I admire most is how much trust you place in the reader. The story never tells me what to think or feel. It lets me arrive there on my own. By the time the final image settles, that sense of becoming “less seen, less him,” is great.

Note : “Which aisle has the paints,” he mumbles to himself.
This should end with a question mark, not a comma.
(Because it is a question, even though it’s murmured.)

Kind wishes, Tee

This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
22
22
Review of Query Letter  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (4.0)


Review of Query Letter: The Space Adventure of Quasar Photon

Nicholas,

First, congratulations on completing your debut novel. Finishing a book is a real accomplishment, and it’s clear you have a strong imagination and a genuine love for superhero and science-fantasy storytelling.

That said, a query letter has one specific job: to make an agent want to read the manuscript. Right now, your query shows enthusiasm and worldbuilding, but it needs more focus, clarity, and professional polish to be competitive.

What’s Working Well
• The genre is clear: superhero science fantasy
• The stakes are clearly global and urgent
• You’ve created a colorful cast of heroes and villains
• The word count is appropriate for a debut in this space
• You clearly understand the “hero’s journey” framework

Those are solid foundations.

Where the Query Needs Improvement
1. Too much repetition
The letter repeats the same idea (heroes vs. evil aliens, world at stake) several times without adding new information. Agents skim. Repetition works against you.
2. Lack of a clear protagonist arc
We’re told Quasar Photon wants to save the world, but not who he is, what he risks personally, or what choice defines him. Agents look for character first, spectacle second.
3. Villains feel generic
“Evil villains bent on annihilation” is familiar language. What makes these antagonists different or memorable?
4. The dream framing is confusing
The final paragraph introduces a possible “it was all a dream” twist, which raises a red flag for agents unless handled very carefully. Right now, it feels abrupt and underdeveloped.
5. Formatting and tone
Industry queries are tight, confident, and clean. This one would benefit from sharper language and a more professional structure.

⸻

What Agents Want to See More Of

• Who Quasar Photon is at the start
• What personal cost he faces
• What makes this story different from other superhero tales
• A clear, compelling hook in the first paragraph


In most cases you have less than 60seconds to grab interest.
You need a strong hook in the first sentence. Why should I read your book?
Perhaps:

Dear [Agent Name],

I am seeking representation for The Space Adventure of Quasar Photon, a 40,791-word science-fantasy superhero novel.
(Just an idea)
Hook could be: Quasar Photon knows saving the world comes at a personal cost.(hook with a story arc)When Earth faces an invasion by Martian forces led by the ruthless Doctor Ensanne and the militant General Refightreed, Quasar Photon must lead an unlikely team of heroes to stop the annihilation of civilization.

I hope you get the idea.
Kind wishes,
Tee


This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
23
23
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)




Dear David,

Review of: Blonde Hair and a Golden Horseshoe

I wanted to take a moment to tell you how deeply Blonde Hair and a Golden Horseshoe touched me.

It is a love story, a memory kept alive on the page, and a quiet testimony of what it means to truly cherish a child. Every paragraph carries your devotion to Michael, not in loud declarations, but in the steady, faithful way you noticed him. His smile. His curiosity. His joy in simple wonders. His courage in circumstances that would have crushed many adults.

What moved me most was the tenderness in your storytelling. You never ask the reader to feel sorry for Michael. Instead, you invite us to admire him. To see the world through his eyes. To recognize that happiness is not measured by ability, but by spirit. Michael’s presence shines throughout the story, especially in the moments of ordinary joy that become sacred simply because you shared them together.

The reunion scenes, the road trip conversations, the golden horseshoe, and the quiet evenings by the campfire are beautifully rendered. They feel real. They feel lived. And they remind the reader that the most meaningful adventures are not the grand ones, but the ones where love is fully present.

Your faith, gratitude, and enduring bond with your son are woven gently through every page. It is clear that writing this book was an act of love and remembrance, and that love comes through without hesitation. Michael’s life mattered. His joy mattered. And through your words, his spirit continues to touch others.

Thank you for sharing Michael with us. Thank you for trusting readers with something so precious. This story is a gift, and I believe it will bring comfort and peace to anyone who reads it, just as Michael continues to bring peace to you.

With heartfelt appreciation,
Tee


This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
24
24
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)

Review of: A Rather Gentle Realisation

I just finished reading “A Rather Gentle Realisation,” and I felt compelled to write you a note—not just to say I enjoyed it, but to thank you for creating something so quietly powerful.

Your piece is exactly what the title suggests: gentle, thoughtful, and deeply human. It doesn’t demand attention or try to impress. Instead, it invites the reader to slow down, breathe, and listen. That alone feels like a rare gift these days.

What moved me most was how you captured the quiet, easily overlooked moments that truly shape our inner lives. The voice in this piece feels calm and grounded—like someone who has come through noise and hurry, and chosen a gentler way, not because everything got easier, but because they learned to listen differently.

Your reflections on happiness, presence, and self-kindness are handled with such care. They never feel forced or preachy—just honest. There’s something profoundly comforting about the idea that happiness isn’t something we chase or achieve, but something we notice. That line will stay with me.

I especially loved moments like “the brain doesn’t search for joy; it notices it” and “meaning was the quiet architect of happiness.” Those aren’t just beautiful lines—they feel like hard-earned truths, distilled into something soft and sharable.

So I just want to say: please keep writing. You have a rare ability—not just with words, but with awareness. The kind of noticing you practice on the page brings clarity and gentleness into the world, and we need more of that. Your work may be quiet, but it resonates deeply—and that matters more than volume ever could.


Yes — overall, “A Rather Gentle Realisation” is beautifully written, with strong flow, clear structure, and poetic insight. That said, there are a couple of small errors.

Here’s a breakdown of the minor issues and suggested edits:

Is this a Typo: “nae” should be “naïve”

Original:
“This understanding didn’t make him nae; it made him peaceful.”

Correction:
“This understanding didn’t make him naïve; it made him peaceful.”

This looks like a simple typo or autocorrect glitch.


Verb Agreement: “laugh” vs. “laughed”

Original:
“One afternoon, sitting on a park bench, he laugh—”

Correction:
“One afternoon, sitting on a park bench, he laughed—”

Just a small verb tense mismatch. It’s past tense throughout, so “laughed” fits.


So I just want to say: please keep writing. You have a rare ability—not just with words, but with awareness. The kind of noticing you practice on the page brings clarity and gentleness into the world, and we need more of that. Your work may be quiet, but it resonates deeply—and that matters more than volume ever could.

Kind wishes,
Tee

This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
25
25
Review of Serpent lies...  Open in new Window.
Review by TeeGateM Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (4.5)


This piece feels like a chant, almost a declaration spoken from the edge of night into the waiting dawn. There is a raw, mythic quality to it that pulled me in immediately. I felt the weariness of standing “farthest from home,” and the repetition of that idea worked like a heartbeat, reinforcing the loneliness and resolve that run through the poem.

What resonated with me most was the sense of ongoing struggle. The idea that every night we return to battle, not out of hatred but out of duty, carries real emotional weight. The contrast between darkness and morning, deception and truth, exile and home gives the poem its spine. When the souls cry out, “Take me back,” it feels honest and deeply human.

The imagery surrounding the moon is bold and confrontational. I appreciated the way you turned it from something traditionally romanticized into a symbol of illusion and false authority. That shift gives the poem a prophetic tone, as though the speaker is peeling back layers of a long-held lie. By the time truth is “spewed” back into the world, it feels earned, not easy.

This is a poem driven by conviction. It doesn’t apologize for its voice or soften its message, and that confidence is one of its strengths. With a bit of tightening in places and careful attention to rhythm and clarity, this could be even more powerful. But at its core, the heart of the piece is strong, and the vision behind it is clear.

Thank you for sharing something so fearless and sincere. I’m glad I took the time to read.


This is my Angel Army signature.


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
60 Reviews • *Magnify*
Page of 3 • 25 per page   < >
Printed from https://www.writing.com/main/profile/reviews/teegate