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566 Public Reviews Given
567 Total Reviews Given
Review Style
I am thorough. The technical aspects are important to me as much as if the story makes sense. The word "cruel" has been used before when responding to a review I've given, but in an appreciative and kind way.
Favorite Genres
Fantasy, Comedy
Favorite Item Types
Short stories
Public Reviews
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51
51
Review of Without sight  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (4.0)
"Once he got to the end of the room, he ordered them with an unnecessarily loud voice to march out and assemble in formation at the main gates." - I like this detail: it's loud because he thinks it's louder, not because the man is speaking louder *Smile*

I see that you're the co-winner for the Cramp today. Congratulations! This piece you have is a nice introduction to something larger; it has me yearning to know what happens during and after this exercise, and what the other situations might entails. Thank you for sharing it, and congrats, again. Take care, and have a good writing day.

Than Pence
52
52
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (4.0)
"They sagged unevenly down on the right side." - I like this little detail: blinds seem to have a mind of their own sometimes.

"Her body was shaking with the tears that were demanding to come out." - I'd suggest changing the end of this sentence to "...that demanded to come out."

I see that this is your entry for the current Cramp (which might have been judged by the time I submitted this to you). Good luck with it. It's a sorrowful story you've got here, one that can really be appreciated by victims of circumstance. Take care, and keep writing.

Than Pence
53
53
Review of Exodus  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 18+ | (4.0)
Congrats on winning the Cramp!

I noticed that you change from Pete to Peter shortly after introducing him. I'm not sure if you meant to or if was a bit of foreshadow for who he really is.

At first, I thought it was going to be some sort of futuristic-set setting but I'm glad that it has a happy ending. And I'm also pleased that your weather dealt with the heat, like mine. Take care of yourself, good luck with future Cramp entries, and keep writing, always.

Than Pence
54
54
Review of ode to the dragon  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: ASR | (3.5)
I'm critiquing this since you read a story of mine. I'm not entirely sure what to think. What comes across is the brief story of a man who sounds like he loves dragons so much that he doesn't care to put himself in danger just to admire the creature.

It seems almost contradictory that he would seek out this creature and expect flattery to save his life. Does he not have more respect for the dragon? He understands that it's deadly, but he should seem grateful to finally enjoy it's presence more than anything else; even more than life.

This is just a thought. Take care and keep writing.

Than Pence
55
55
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
"...standing over the body of a man in a newsboy cap, the .38 still aimed at his groin." - This should say "...a .38 still aimed at his groin". As written, it implies the police officers have already seen it when Alice has never fired the gun and bought it just the month before.

That's the only minor thing that jumped out at me. You're a little more liberal with your commas than I usually enjoy but it didn't detract from the story *Wink*

This was in the Action/Adventure Newsletter this week. I clicked the link to open it and then looked at the time, realizing I didn't have the luxury of reading it just yet. I had to leave. Then I came back and the story was waiting for me. I read through it and the anticipation mounted with each paragraph. It's a wonderful, suspenseful story that works to teach lessons not only on Internet safety, but on the importance of saying (or typing) what you mean, when you mean it. Thank you so much for sharing it. I'll remember it for days to come. Take care, and keep writing.

Than Pence
56
56
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 13+ | (4.0)
"If those men, if anyone in The City were to notice that I bear the Mark of Justice they would not hesitate..." - Add a comma after "Justice".

I've finished reading and found no other errors, which is impressive. The tag for the piece suggested more of a discovery in this chapter, but I suppose that may come later in the story. Do you intend on keeping it in first-person throughout the book? I know that authors like to do that, but I rarely see it done nicely. Limiting the reader the one perspective can be a little harrowing at times. But it definitely works if you're trying to keep the rest of this thief's world a mystery.

Good luck with the rest of this. I hope you've found some constructive criticism so far. Have a great writing day, and take care.

Than Pence
57
57
Review of The Ice Lake  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
"For far too long now, have I felt nothing but the melancholy..." - I think what you mean to say in the middle is "...I have felt nothing...".

"The darkness and cold becomes to great to bear." - Change "to" into "too".

This was in the Short Story Newsletter for this week and it's marked as a Personal piece, meaning it probably holds some significant value to you. As a story, I see it's supposed to be a metaphor about you being trapped by your mind. It feels like the girl in the story is a primary catalyst for the trap: in it, she taunts and teases you, only to condemn you further into your mind. But, in the end, you find that, while trapped inside yourself, you discover the means for escape. Though it might seem contradictory (why would you fight to get away from yourself, only to be inspired by yourself to escape), it works as a strong metaphor.

Thank you for sharing this. As a reviewer, I find it's most difficult to review Personal pieces. I hope I was able to provide helpful comments, or at least grasp the meaning of the piece. Good luck with other projects, and have a good writing day.

Than Pence
58
58
Review of My Name Is Mud  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (4.0)
I noticed a few spots where you have some extra spacings between words. I'll point them out real quick: "...dedicated to the task of forming good Christian ladies...", "If I had my druthers, you’d be a hop...", "...and your name is mud if you don’t pull yourselves up..."

" “What was the doctor’s name, Grandpa.” I asked..." - Use a question mark, rather than a period.

This is quite a humorous, informative tale. It speaks about the inevitable gap between generations, especially where language is concerned. And it's also nice to know where such an idiom comes from.

This was in the Short Story Newsletter for this week and I thank you for sharing it. It was delightful and witty and I'll be sure to pass the knowledge on, if ever it comes up. Keep writing, and have a good day.

Than Pence

59
59
Review of The Bird Lady  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (4.0)
"The screened porch hosted a jumble of cages, and "Private Property" signs sprouted." - It's cute that the signs sprouted, as if they're flowers that only this woman could love.

"Alarmed, she flew onto her screened porch." - Again, very cute and clever. She flies to her porch, as if she's a bird *Smile*

"Chasing a soccer ball, she saw; how dared he terrify her friends!" - The middle section should be changed either to "he dared to terrify" or "how dare he terrify".

"Cynthia suffered a broken wing and Roger was martyred." - Oh, poor Roger *Frown* But it looks like the Bird Lady retaliated in a grisly and unexpected manner!

"She chirped a question to an owl deep the woods and he replied..." - Add "in" after "deep".

This was in the Fantasy Newsletter for this week. It starts as a normal piece but progresses to be a little vengeful. I think it's very clever that the Bird Lady is infused with so many birdlike mannerisms. Being a fantasy piece, I was still surprised to learn that she was slowly turning into an actual bird. It was quite unexpected, but still pleasant to read. Thank you for sharing it, and I'm glad for you that it was featured. Have a good writing day.

Than Pence
60
60
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 13+ | (4.0)
"But black embossed leather boots, clinking with spurs drew her attention from his body." - I'm immediately wondering why you start this sentence with "But". It doesn't seem necessary.

" “Darn, you messed up my best hat," she cried out, angrier than a raccoon being held by the tail." - Ha ha! This is some funny imagery. I don't suppose you'd consider saying "Damn" instead of "Darn" though? It feels a little more appropriate, considering that he just fired a gun near her. I'd also wonder about temporary hearing loss for the characters at this point, but it's not a major concern.

" "Don’t ya’ ever pull no gun on me li'l girl." " - Add a comma between "me" and "li'l". By this point in the story, I'm really enjoying the dialogue and how it reads like authentic-Western talk.

"...but the stranger pulled her closer with his one arm wrapped around her like she was an old Indian blanket he held fast in his grip." - The last part of this sentence feels odd. Should "he held fast in his grip" be a separate sentence, or at least be divided from the rest with a semicolon?

"Bet turned around, and glared knife pricks." - No comma.

I'm just now coming to realize that this scene is taking place in a saloon. Why are none of the other patron's being mentioned, even in passing? You'd think someone would say something about a stranger shooting at the bartender's sister.

"He’d been thinkin’ on it for two weeks..." - Using a word like "thinkin' " is usually reserved for dialogue. Just before this part, you typed " 'round" instead of "around". I'm unsure how I feel about it at this point, but I thought I'd point it out.

I will also ponder about the fact that he continues to be known as "the stranger", rather than his true name. Is this intended to show that he just kept to himself, or is he supposed to play the role of a typical villain and not have something so personal and humanistic as a name?

" “Thatsss it! You takkkke him onnnn?” " - This is some comedic dialogue from Joey. I hope the question mark is intentional. It's hilarious, as if he's unsure of what's happening *Smile*

" “Elizabeth, ah, won’t say it agin'.” The stranger's voice chilled the air." - Concerning this dialogue, is your use of the word "ah" meant to replace "I", as it has before? If so, it doesn't need a comma to follow it. But if not, and it's meant to make the stranger (who is now named Brett) appear to be hesitating in telling Elizabeth what he won't say again, then the comma should stay. I like the latter explanation myself, but consistency is important for the story. If the latter means is your intention, I would suggest change "ah" to "eh". This way, you keep the comma and Brett sounds like he might even be a little afraid of Elizabeth's independent flare, or of hurting her feelings.

"He held her eyes a moment and nodded once, slowly. “Understand me, woman?” " - This is the smallest thing anyone could point out, but there's an extra space just before "He".

" “Good. Now go on, Elizabeth,” Brett ordered. Wait outside til I tell ya." " - The second opening quotation is missing.

Oooh, this is a feel-good story of romance. I really like the ending, especially since it's a little ambiguous about whether or not Charlie "let" Brett win that house or if Brett outright played a better hand of poker and stole it. Either way, it’s very sweet on either men’s part, because they both loved her.

This was in the Action/Adventure Newsletter for this week. I'm so pleased I read it. Thank you for writing and sharing it. I see that it was first written seven years ago and edited a few months ago. But there are only seven ratings? That seems impossible. This is a story of high-quality. I know it felt like I pointed out a lot of errors, but they were minor and did not drag the story for me at all. Good luck with your future projects, and have a happy writing day.

Than Pence

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Go Noticed.
61
61
Review of The Cursed Gun  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 18+ | (4.0)
"Death from the end of your smoking gun." - Would you consider changing this rhyme to "Death explodes from your smoking gun"? It feels more natural to me.

" “How about we take payment out of your daughter here?” said the badge reaching for a frightened young woman." - This is a line that can easily be taken out of context and be deemed "humorous". Now, I know the "badge" is supposed to be another name for the sheriff, but the imagery that this evokes is that of a true-to-life sheriff's badge speaking and then grabbing for the woman. I wouldn't suggest changing it because it's a good way of titling someone, but I'd expect some comments like the one I just made. All in all, add a comma after "badge".

" “Let her go.” He heard himself say." - Instead of the period after "go", use a comma and lowercase "He". This is all one sentence.

"Now sign right here with bloody red." - Possibly change to "Now sign right here with ink, blood red". It sounds a little more imposing and suggestive that the ink might actually be blood.

I see that you wrote this over a year ago, initially. Did you win the contest? It's a good piece. I like how the story breaks with the rhyming devil-speak. It's quite memorable. The feel of the gunslinger as he decides whether or not he should take these lives is interesting. Should he kill these decidedly evil men and save the day? Doing that sounds like it'll add energy to some malignant, eviler force. It would've been great if that instance could've been expanded for that moment.

This was in the Action/Adventure Newsletter for this week. Thank you for sharing it and I hope your future projects carry a similar level of imagination.

Than Pence
62
62
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (5.0)
Though I can't recall reviewing a Staff member's port, I know I've reviewed pieces written by both types of Moderators. I will admit that it's a little daunting to approach such a piece as you think "Well, this possibly can't have any mistakes or flaw in storytelling. So what do they need my help for?" Then I remember that I need reviews and critiques as much as the next guy, so I tackle the mods when I can *Smile*

Than Pence
63
63
Review of Butterflies Die  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: ASR | (3.5)
This was in the Hub, under the Recent Review Requests tab. The second and fourth stanzas are exactly the same, and I'm not sure I like that, especially since the sixth stanza changes it a little. Maybe the fourth could be altered? It'll help show a gradual procession within the piece.

I wonder why you have no ending-punctuations as well. I understand that a lot of people don't like to use it inside poetry because it can detract from the flow and visual style, but at the very end, a resolution is reached: his heart is now an empty hole. That's a finite ending and I think a period is justified.

Your rhymes are not as tight as they could be and feel repetitive (mainly because of the second and fourth stanzas) but it still works for the piece as the words you've chosen can be difficult to rhyme.

Thank you for sharing this piece. I wonder if you'd be interested in looking t my own poem regarding butterflies. I'll provide a link: "Butterfly Road I would appreciate any feedback. Thank you, and I hope you have fun with future projects.

Than Pence
64
64
Review of Crackpot  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
"The shopkeeper insisted they had been made by a leading porcelain company, but he was selling them at a fraction of their actual value because he had lost the certification. Cogmeyer did not believe his story, but it did not matter who had made them as long as they were breakable." - This is almost humorous in nature. It sounds like he's looking for drugs, but he's just looking for dishes!

"For a place that was a product of the green movement, there was ironically little greenery within the town." - This is a wonderful line, and works as terrific commentary on our own possible future.

“Cogmeyer's parlor made it obvious he had no interest in eliminating clutter.” – This sentence serves as further proof that Cogmeyer is meant to go against modern conventions. Not only is his fashion sense atypical, but his house is large and he might be a hoarder. This is terrific insight to the character.

“ "Any idea what you're going to do for a job now, Izzy?" Cogmeyer was in his dining room, looking across the table at his sister.” – The description setting the scene seems out of place. It’s simple yes, but doesn’t feel like it fits. Something like “ “…a job now, Izzy?” he asked while looking at his sister across the dining room table.”

“He was not certain exactly how old she was, but he knew she was over a hundred and thirty.” – This is the first instance, I believe, where anyone’s age has been mentioned. The high number indicates an advanced society that might introduce societal problems. I mean, who wants to live so long in a world where it sounds like many jobs are being automated? Again, this is a wonderful reflection on our own times.

“ "I'm so sorry, Mr. Cogmeyer. I just couldn't hold it." Doloris lowered her eyes and looked at her hands.” – What a sad scene. Obviously, Doloris is not only concerned about the broken dish: she’s worried about looking incompetent in front of her boss. What good is a housekeeper that can’t hold a dish? It’s a frightening prospect for any person, regardless of age.

“ "No one's going the the need house." “ – Change the first “the” to “to”.

“ “It's hard to see the little ones grow up." She sighed, the continued…” – After “She sighed”, change “the” to “then”.

“ "But you made's exactly the kind of time machine that could fix broken dishes." “ – The beginning of this statement should be written as “But you made…” or “What you made’s…”. I’d recommend the former.

I’m at the part where the second, plastic dish has been repaired… and I’m worried that Doloris will try to hop into the machine so she might regain her lost youth. I’m not worried that this is the direction the story will take. I’m worried for the character of Doloris and how such a thing would assuredly prove disastrous as I’m sympathetic to her. I can only hope she doesn’t have such a notion.

“If he could not saved her life, at least he could have kept her from suffering.” – Add “have” after “could not”.

“Doloris make a movement that might have been a shrug.” – Change “make” to “made”.

“Cogmeyer answered, "No once it's lost. I don't have any way to pick it out…” “ – Change “No” to “Not”.

“Doloris came just closed enough to grab the envelope, then backed away again…” – Change “closed” to “close”.

Well, I guess Doloris ended up wanting to relive her youth. I liked that only she got to read what was in the envelope. It’s like a small piece of mystery that wasn’t revealed. I also liked that Cogmeyer chose to use his invention for the original intent: mending broken dishes. It does seem a little weird that he hasn’t tried to incorporate the time machine for some other purpose before. It’s a monumental achievement, I would think. Of course, his subconscious knew, which is why he had the dream that pointed out the means he needed.

What will become of Doloris? A happy ending is implied, but I can’t help but think that Cogmeyer’s concerns about molecular-level inconsistencies won’t go unchecked. A part of me still feels bad for her as she still might suffer for her actions in ways not yet comprehended. She’s been forced to revisit a time in her life when she knew other kinds of love and experience. She may live to regret giving those up. And the change might’ve affected her singing voice: maybe her vocal cords didn’t revert to what they once were. It’s just things that a reader might think about. I know I will. That makes this some grade-A storytelling: leave the reader wanting more and wondering “What’s next?”

This was in the Fantasy Newsletter and I’m so glad I read it. I see it’s a relatively new piece and, despite its length, still has a modest number of ratings/reviews. Good job. It’s some compelling, well-paced storytelling that few have the patience to try. Again, the length can seem daunting, but it's a lot of dialogue, and that is always a breeze to get through. Thank you for sharing it, and good luck with your future writings. I know that if they’re like this piece, they’re going to keep your readers coming back for more.

Than Pence

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Go Noticed.
65
65
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (4.5)
This was in the Hub, under the Recent Review Requests. It's a jaunty, enjoyable read that talks about a flame throwing beast but does not specifically name it as a "dragon". And good for you. There are far too many stories (my own included) that include dragons. This could be something else: a dog that breaths fire, or a large salamander (some folklore dictates that they spew fire that cannot be doused). It could be anything, really, and I'm so glad you didn't say that it was "just a dragon".

There are a couple things I might suggest changing, though. In the second stanza, second line, I'd change "folks" to "folk". It's the same meaning, but has the power to look just a little classier. Someone will read "where folk act silly" and think "Wow. Folk. Like folklore, as this could be!" Haha! I doubt they'd actually think that, but it does look a little better that way, in my opinion.

In the fourth stanza, first line, end with a comma. And the final line of the piece: should that be in quotes? Or is this a summation of what the fire chief said? I'm a little curious. I know the quotations can possibly draw the reader more quickly to the end of the poem, forcing them to breeze through it and not pick up your tight and witty rhyme scheme. So, I guess what I'm saying is... thank you for not using quotation marks, as I probably would've felt rushed by them.

Thank you for sharing this delightful piece. It is charming and lighthearted. It also speaks volumes about the caution of owning a dangerous creature. I read a story that carries a similar message, months ago. Here's the link: "Invalid Item I thought it was touching in the same manner that yours is. Good luck with future stories, and have a good writing day.

Than Pence

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Go Noticed.
66
66
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (4.0)
"I wondered that I didn't gag as I strode the water's edge." - This is an awkward sentence for me. I'd suggest changing the beginning to "It was a wonder that I didn't...".

"No less than four times in as many hours the coast guard had issued warnings against swimming and surfing." - Add a comma after "hours".

"Suddenly a series of huge waves washed up onto the sand." - Add a comma after "Suddenly".

"...separated from her thigh, Shrieking as her blood sprayed..." - Lowercase "Shrieking". The paragraph this is in is chilling and unexpected. Nicely done.

"...I was unconscious, but when I came around the carnage had moved..." Add a comma after "around".

This was in the Fantasy Newsletter and, oddly enough, it is the second piece in as many weeks that include, in some fashion, Cthulhu. It is a mythology I have only heard about but have not read. The gore is subtle, but still evident enough to be disturbing. It almost leaps out of nowhere to surprise the reader.

The main character seems to possess a kind of pity for humankind, but then replaces that with elation over being a master over humans. This feels like a very real reaction, where war is concerned: those that pity others then might feel they have the option to dominate them. It's funny that this is true between just humans *Wink*

I notice that you've been on the site for a little over a month. How has your experience been so far? I'm almost certain it's been a positive one, but if not, I hope this review is the beginning of a turn-around for you. Thank you for sharing this memorable and visual short story. It might possibly serve as divine influence, telling me to go read some Lovecraftian Horror as soon as possible. Take care, and have a good writing day.

Than Pence

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Go Noticed.
67
67
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (3.5)
"She also wore a turquoise stone necklace, with the matching bracelet." Say "with a matching bracelet". - Stating that the character knows it's the matching bracelet implies that he personally knows her jewelry set.

" "You will touch it, none the less." Her voice had a hint of poison in it.
"Did you know your great grandfather, Cleomonth?" " - Separating these two pieces of dialogue had me thinking that the boy had started asking the question, and then I grew confused when he mentioned his own name. I'd suggest tacking it onto the end of the previous paragraph, after "poison in it". You've also spelled "Cleomonth" different than when you first used it: "Cloemonth". Which is correct?

"...You got somewhere to be!" He called hastily." - Lowercase the "He" after this piece of dialogue, as it continues your full sentence.

"...and I scrubbed vigilantly with some good-smelling bar." - Change the "some" to "a" or change "bar" to "bars". One of the other.

"A quick guess told me that about a hundred people stood about." - End this with "nearby" rather than "about". You've used "about" earlier in the same sentence, and it threatens to sound repetitive, being used so close to each other.

"It must of been the egg, I though to myself." - This is a present-tense thought. I see that later in the same paragraph, you set off internal dialogue with italics. That's smart (I do it frequently). This should also be in italics, and since it's a present-tense thought, rewrite it to say "It must be the egg, I thought to myself." It'll help with consistency.

"Layers of kids stood before me.With a steady push, I got to the center." - This is a small thing to point out, but add the space after the period, before "With".

" "Can't you see your stressing him!" Someone yelled." - Change the "your" to "you're", and remember that they mean two different things. And lowercase "Someone".

"But, the dragon kept coming to me." - No comma.

By this point in the story, I'm very intrigued by the fantasy-element. An established history seems to be present, but why is this Egg in the custody of the government? Do they use the "creature" as a means of protecting their territory... or for domination? Expansion? Destruction, even? Like I said, it's intriguing and I only have to continue reading to find out. It was obvious that the boy in question would be chosen, but the lead-up to this point was brief enough and informative enough to not be boring.
"Several rows of sharp teeth planted themselves into his leg." - This is some odd imagery. Obviously, the teeth can't plant themselves into the stranger's leg. The dragon is doing this. Rewrite it to read like "Several rows of sharp teeth were planted into his leg". It's not so weird then.

"Slowly, I reached a single hand down, and the dragon's head meet it." - Change "meet" to "met".

"They were laying in a sun yellow body, witch were scaled." - Say "...which was scaled". Note: You've used "witch" instead of "which". I haven't noticed it before, but it might be something to watch out for in the future.

"It had four stiff, thick legs that had three distinct spots to use to climb up." - This is an odd sentence. "It had four stiff, thick legs, each of which had three distinct points of which I could use to climb up." Rewritten like this, it flows a little easier. And when you say "spots" on an animal, it sounds more like a piece of their coloring or hide. Saying "points" or even "protrusions" (that might be better than "points") makes the description a little clearer: there are points that jut out of the dragon's legs that our character can climb upon.

"It had four, two of witch were strong muscles meant for flying." - This is another instance where "witch" should be "which".

"The other two were small and thin, and they jutted from it's side." - If you have faith in your intended audience to use it, you might think about describing the other pair as "vestigial wings". "The other two were merely vestigial: just for looks." Most people know that vestigial wings are smaller than wings used for flight. But, again, that's only if you think your intended audience will know what they are.

"...a row on he top and a row on the bottom." - Change "he" to "the".

"The tip formed a four leaf clover live thing that had two lethal, long spikes;" - Just say the tip was "clover shaped, with two long, lethal spikes;".

"..."second son of Grechtomy the third, in the sixth the Dragon Friend League." " - Capitalize "third" since it's part of the man's title, but I don't know what you're trying to say with any part after that. It's confusing.

" "Come forth," I lifted from my bow..." - Change the comma to a period since the following section is not what she says, but what the boy does.

" "May I see the beast I have kept shelter for so many years?" He asked." - Lowercase "He". Possibly change "shelter" to "sheltered". The phrase is a little trippy, as is.

"A sudden, unexpected pang of jealousy hit me." - This is an unexpected yet understandable reaction from the boy. At first, he wanted no part in this ritual. Now that the dragon is his dragon, it's easy for him to become jealous as it's obvious that the dragon knows no other master and has no reason to listen to the Lord. He even bit another boy to get to Cleomonth! Very nice progression of the boy's insight.

" "Consider yourself lucky." He remarked." - The period after "lucky" should be a comma, and then lowercase "He".

"People swarmed around up, making it impossible to go anywhere." - Change "up" to "us".

"With a pop, a multi-colored bubble emerged from her mouth. It expanded, enveloping me before it forced the crowd away. She stared at me, expectantly. I scratched her neck, and started off for home." - This is an unexpected form of magic. But what threw me off was you instantly declaring that the dragon was female. When you said that a bubble emerged from her mouth, I was thinking that you were talking about one of the other kids that barred their way. And the boy is behind the dragon before this moment. Did the dragon turn it's head and blow the bubble, or were they both inside the bubble? It sounds like it's just the boy, except he scratched her neck before he started off again, indicating that the dragon is in the bubble too.

" "You ain't leavin' this house till I let you!" " - Do not use "till" in this manner. It concerns dirt and cultivation. Since the man is speaking, you can write it as " 'til ", with the apostrophe before the word, or just type out "until". I'm organizing a movement that forces the people of the future to use this word properly. Join me, ha ha! *Wink*

" "I did not chose it, father. It chose me." " - The first "chose" should be "choose". The second "chose" is correct.

" "...I have to go. To learn magic." I replied, as mom and my three sisters stared at me." - Keep the dialogue as is and take out "I replied, as". Start the next sentence with "Mom and my...".

" "There is absolutely no way." Beatrice barked." - This is another one of those dialogue-writing rules that I've pointed out, but this is the perfect example in how it can be remembered. The way these two sentences read, you have someone saying "There is absolutely no way." Then, an animal named Beatrice barks. The period dictates that, and a reader would see it that way and then wonder "Is Beatrice also piping in? Throwing her two cents in? I guess she's jealous of the dragon, since she's just a dog!" I hope you see what I'm talking about and it helps you remember, for the future. In shorthand, change the period after "way" to a comma *Smile*

I've finished reading and I'm pleased with what I read. Your execution is a little sloppy, but that's stuff that can be easily fixed. What you have here, at the core, is the beginning of a very good story. I do have those lingering questions about why the local government controls the Egg before it hatches, and if that has sinister meanings behind it, but for now, those questions are on the back burner. It sounds like Cleomonth (an interesting name) is going to start some proper training, in regards to managing his dragon. But to what end? And what language was the Lord speaking that could lull the dragon into listening to him? Did he once have a Steed? The questions are strong and lingering and leaves me wanting. That's the sign of a good story: the reader has been left yearning for more. Excellent job.

This was in the Fantasy Newsletter. Thank you for sharing it. It was a joy to read. I know it seems like I pointed out a lot of mistakes, but they are merely pointers for improving your storytelling ability. You've been reviewed at least six times before. I would hope that someone else has done the same for you already, but if they haven't, here you go. Take care, and continue with this, please. Let me know how the future for Cleomonth goes.

Than Pence

PS. You say that "Thirteenth Hour" is a temporary title. If this continues with just Cleomonth's first year at Bethgolmonth, I'd suggest calling it "The Thirteenth Year". But if it goes beyond that to include future-flung actions, something else would be better. Good luck!

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Go Noticed.
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Review of Toss of a Coin  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (3.0)
"...with a parker pinned to his jacket’s pocket..." What's a parker?

"It took him years to build such collection." Add "a" after "such".

"Vince was only expecting one thing. The landing of the Boeing." Combine these two sentence with a colon instead of a period, and then lowercase the "The".

The second to last paragraph suddenly switched the story to present tense while the rest of the piece was in past tense. And I don't understand why the "sneezer" would say that phrase to Vince. And it's not clarified what each represents, which leaves the ending ambiguous. Did Vince land on his head while the sneezer landed on his backside? Or did Vince merely survive while the sneezer did not? As a reader, I'd want more details surrounding their potential demise.

You commented on my story "Barry's Friend in the Writer's Cramp forum, and I'd figure I'd return the favor. This was the only thing in your port, so I gave it a look. I hope you can answer some questions about what's happening in the end as I'm leaving slightly confused. Thank you for sharing it.

Than Pence
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69
Review of Grave Dirt  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 18+ | (4.0)
"She kicked one leg up and then another, as far as they would go. They thunked ... making every hair on her entire body prick up. She clamped her mouth shut, her teeth clicking with the force of it. Her nostrils flared violently." Already, the images and descriptions have my guts churning with this piece. I'm very afraid for the protagonist!

"The man with the shovel was leaning against a gargantuan oak tree, ancient and gnarled." A few paragraphs before this one, you mention that the man with the shovel was leaning on the shovel. Now he's leaning against the tree. Is he doing both?

"The man who had spoke to her, took a small step back and laughed..." No comma needed here.

"...that littered the cemetery grounds, even a twig caused her to lose her balance." I'd suggest changing the comma to a period and making the last section a sentence by itself.

"The cops are still fucking investigating her murder, when they find her grave disturbed..." Change the comma to a period.

"The fear was the only thing she felt." It's a strong sentence, especially since you've described that most of her other feelings and senses are useless, but I wonder if you might not just say "Fear was the only...".

"She stayed huddled in the corner, and closed her eyes.
She heard Tony chanting, probably spreading a protective circle around her." If she's huddled in the corner still, how can they been spreading the blood-circle around her? Was she moved out of the corner before they did this?

"She had only one thought, she had to keep this from Tony." Use a colon instead of a comma here.

"He flailed, and lost his balance..." No comma.

"She felt electricity shock through her as the bond tried to ensnare her." This sentence worries me. I'd suggest rewriting it to read as "She felt an electric shock as his bond tried to ensnare her". I emphasize changing "the bond" to "his bond" as it's something that he owns, rather than something that's moving independently about the room.

"Watching the look in his eyes as the pain overtook him, his power receding." Change the beginning of this to "She watched the look..."

I see that this hasn't been edited in over six years. That's quite a long time and the length makes me feel uneasy about suggesting the changes that I did, but they are things I noticed and I hope that they help you make it even better than it is.

The story, by the way, is quite compelling. It's a take on the zombie genre that I've not frequently encountered. It's refreshing. This was in the Short Story Newsletter and I thank you for sharing it and letting me critique it. I'm now noticing that you haven't logged into the site in over two years, but I still hope this review finds you. Good luck, and have great writing days.

Than Pence
70
70
Review of Nightmare camp  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (2.5)
"I don’t mean people weird I mean weird noises like howling..." Add a period after the first "weird" to make this two, complete sentences.

"Thanks to Johnny were both scared now." Say "we're" instead of "were".

"Guess what the lunch room door slammed shut and the lights shut off." Add a question mark after "Guess what".

"Oh no! It’s just Johnny. Wow, you scared me! Sorry, ready to go? Yea." I think this is a back-and-forth conversation between the two boys, but I could be mistaken. If it is, add some quotation marks.

" “What happened Sally?” " Add a comma before "Sally".

"I ran but I wouldn’t move." The imagery this evokes is weird. Say "I tried running but wouldn't move" or "couldn't move".

The "really big secret" is still kind of secretive towards the end. It sounds like this kid was actually dreaming more than anything. Is this why it's called "Camp Nightmare"? If not, than the witch and werewolf should've made more prominent appearances. Maybe having conversations with Cody, or physically touching him.

In the beginning, I liked the pause before the boy revealed his name to be Cody. It almost sounded like he didn't believe it himself, and that the reader might not want to trust him.

The overall style of the piece feels kind of like a reality-show setting; the boy is talking to the reader as if he's a camera and can see things that are not fully described. This style of storytelling can be entertaining, but only when full descriptions are given.

This was in the Read a Newbie section which means you're relatively new to the site. Welcome! I hope you're having good writing days, and that you're really interacting with the site and pulling away a lot of useful information. Good luck with polishing this piece up. And have a good writing day.

Than Pence
71
71
Review of The Gypsy  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 18+ | (4.0)
"...hard and common with very masculine, chiseled face." Add "a" before "very".

"The little bells over the front door jingled lightly, followed by a flood of rude shouts and impatient car horns." This is a very good scene-setting sentence.

The penultimate paragraph is the most intimate part of the story, and it works beautifully. I'm not sure I understood what was meant by the woman being both a lover and a slayer. I was expecting a grisly past to come out and haunt the reader, but she continues to be a beaten housewife. The line "You kill me" was almost a connector, but it's kind of a stretch for me, personally.

Overall, it's a touching story and will stick with me. I enjoyed the beginning, where she considered herself a baby and commented on the cat, and cats in general. I was beginning to think it was about a baby. Then I realized what was going on, and I was able to take it for what it was.

This was in the Short Story Newsletter. Thank you for sharing it. I see that it's three years old and still going strong. Have a good writing day.

Than Pence
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72
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
"A tree, a tire swing, perpetual motion and a sense of weightlessness." This is such a nice sentence as it evokes a kind of spell that's being assembled for casting. But it's natural magic, nothing more, and it's very sweet how listed like a list of ingredients that make up other items mentioned in the story.

" "Tarot." "No really." " Should you use a comma between "No" and "really"?

"Roland said, shifting his weight and looking genuinely uncomfortable." This is a funny scene because, even though he had the guts to ask for her help, he still feels nervous about being around her.

" "I would love that, Roland," she giggled. And I have something for you as well," " Add the opening quotation mark after "giggled".

This was in the Short Story Newsletter and it's a very sweet, well-paced story. I love a good piece of fantasy, and this really hit the spot. The few grammatical errors don't detract the reader from the overall story, which is good. I see that it was entered into a contest. I hope you had luck with it. I really enjoyed reading it. Take care, and keep writing.

Than Pence
73
73
Review of trust  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (2.5)
This was in the Read a Newbie section, and I usually don't like to be negative about someone's work (especially a Newbie to the site), but it looks like you need help with this piece.

As is, right off the bat, it almost resembles a text message. There is no capitalization and no punctuation. These points of grammar are helpful. They help us writers more strongly convey what we're trying to say. In this instance, they would help a reader like myself not get distracted by their lack of presence and focus solely on the words you've put forth.

I know what you're probably thinking: "How can them not being there distract him?" Because I inherently know that something isn't right with the piece. I see no commas telling me to pause, and no apostrophes that dictate ownership or relate contractions. And when you don't capitalize "i", what does that say about you? That you might think less of yourself? You probably don't, but that's what a reader might think. That kind of impression can taint a piece and detract a reader from whatever meaning you're trying to get across.

Capital-wise, I'd say that this piece should at least start with "Gotta" instead of "gotta" and capitalize all instances of "i". You seem stronger than "i", and that should be carried through to your work.

Punctuation wise, the lack of apostrophes is more apparent than the lack of commas or periods. With poetry, people think that punctuation isn't always needed, but it sometimes helps clarify. When you say "ive" instead of "I've", people might then question whether they should continue reading. Using "your" instead of "you're" might not be caught by the same readers, but I caught it in the seventh line and I can't be the only one. Both words have two different meanings.

Continuing with the punctuation: you end this piece with a very strong question, but no question mark. Why not? After adding your apostrophes, I would strongly suggest that you need to end with a question mark. It could be your only sentence-ending punctuation in the piece and it would surmise the entirety of your situation much more clearly. People see that you've only used a question mark and not any periods, commas, or even semicolons, and they think "Wow. She must really have this question on her mind, above all else."

I understand that this entire critique probably comes off as a lecture, and it might even discourage you, but I only want to help you. When a writer has something to say and they want others to read it and understand it, the things I've mentioned can help a reader like me more clearly understand them and even identify with you. The piece is called "trust" and that's something a lot of people have issues with. Seeing that one more person is out there, dealing with the same thing, might help you deal with your own issues of trust.

My rants are now down, and I hope I didn't scare you away from the site. Writing.com is a wonderful place where writers and readers really come together. I want you to continue to be a part of that by sharing more of your writings and even reading a few poems or stories as well. Take what you will from this critique, and have a good writing day.

Than Pence
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74
Review of Thump Thump Beep  
Review by Than Pence
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
"If I could only tell them all I’m so sorry…" There's a space between "them" and "all" that I think shouldn't be there.

Aside from that one little thing, this poem is magnificent. The pace is slow to start and then quickens with the "thump thump beep". The agony of the victim is truly felt, even after she is screaming inside her head.

I do wonder what she could possibly need to apologize to everyone for. Something tragic enough that thinking about it almost seems to speed her demise. Is that intended? If so, good job. It helps the piece work on a couple levels of thought.

This was in the Read a Newbie section. Welcome to the site! I'm sure you've been greeted already, but I hope you're having a wonderful time on Writing.com. Be sure to enter contests to get noticed, or offer up reviews so that others can return the favor. It's a personally rewarding experience, participating in this site, and I hope you reap the benefits soon. Thank you for this wonderful poem, and good luck with future writings.

Than Pence
75
75
Review by Than Pence
Rated: E | (4.0)
" "Hay old man, what are you going to make for her?" " Say "Hey" instead of "Hay".

"The youth's flamboyant movements and outrageous posturing allowed the people many opportunities to laugh and more than a few for awkward silence." This sentence reminds me of watching one of Dane Cook's performances. He's a comedian, in case you don't know. I do not like him.

This story, however, I do like. It's short, sweet, and touching. The old man is clearly seen. Towards the end, it is a little confusing as to whether the "teen" that's being talked about is the teen baloonist, or one of the teens he was trying to entertain. I was thinking that the line "How'd you do that" was being spoken by the younger baloonist, but it wasn't. It would've actually been a little sweeter if it was the younger man admiring the older man, finally.

This was in the Hub. I think it was a recently created piece of work, and I like it. Good job.
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