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729 Public Reviews Given
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Review Style
I try my best to read everything on Writing.com with great care. My reviews always include a first impression, my feelings about theme and structure and where appropriate, some thoughts about possible revisions.*Mugr*
I'm good at...
I give my best reviews on stories, poems and articles that hold my interest and stir up my emotions.~~ *Smile*
Favorite Genres
Religious/Spiritual,Romance, Historical, Mystery, Fantasy and Sci-Fi.~~ *Cool*
Least Favorite Genres
Erotica and Vampire/Werewolf/Zombie.
Favorite Item Types
Short Stories, Poems, Articles and Essays. ~~
Least Favorite Item Types
lessons and puzzles. ^^*Mugr*
I will not review...
Will not review anything with a rating over 18; no horror or erotica.^^*Mugr*
Public Reviews
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1
1
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
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Greetings Powder Author IconMail Icon,  Welcome to Writing.com! I was pleased to read  "The Way the Tide Turns" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and it is my pleasure to give your writing a review.

August, 11 2025

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
The charm of the story is in the blend of concise narrative and a fresh, easy flowing dialogue. The words sway to a beat that is relaxing. Soft. Gentle. It is pleasant to engage my imagination in picturing Clara and Eli. Young. Stylish. A taste for coffee. Awake to the subtle nuances of each other and their surroundings. I like it. I don't often think about how I fell in love. But stories that plot it out so carefully stir my "want-to-read-more" buttons.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
"The Way the Tide Turns" Open in new Window.uses the mystery behind an oil spill cover-up to spark a possible love relationship. The nature of the mystery ultimately adds tension to Clara and Eli's budding friendship. Where he feels the need to guard some information, she feels that there is something too sinister behind what he is not saying. Will he tell her all? Or will she find out and then...?

*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
The dialogue of the story is written in screen play format, while the narrative, more than "stage directions," enlightens the reader as to thoughts and motives and backstory of the main characters.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“Jonah: "You're running out of 'like this,' Eli."

The younger man walked out without another word, the bell's jingle sounding far too bright for the heaviness he left behind.

The next day, Clara almost hoped Eli wouldn't come. But when he did, his face carried the weight of someone who'd spent the night fighting his own head.”

The saying goes that "everything hidden will be brought into the light." When written into a scene that has been waiting for "it" to happen from the very beginning of the story, it is never trite. It is expected with great expectation! I am always delighted by those scenes when "it" finally comes out because it is a never ending story for the human soul. Little lies, thefts, secrets, affairs, cheats,...on and on. Its a human condition to hide stuff. Even for the most saintly. The images punch the scene: "the bell's jingle sounding far to bright...", "face carried the weight..." Oh yes.
 
*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
I love the story and how it develops. The mystery is great. I prefer the more traditional short story form to the playwright form, but that is just my preference. In every other way I enjoyed the story immensely.


*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*
 
"The Way the Tide Turns" Open in new Window. brings together a bookstore keeper and a marine biologist to uncover a mystery. The story is about Clara and Eli. Their friendship develops over several weeks and seems on firm footing. But there is something in Eli that is troublesome to Clara. Especially after his secret is suddenly revealed. Will there be trust between the two after all? It is a wonderfully constructed story with a light tone. Lovely read. *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(100x6@031820)_____
 (YCM_@122313)(01.13.23)
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
2
2
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Boat2* Merit Badge in Inspirational W G [Click For More Info] Congratulations on your new "Inspirational ~W~G~" merit badge for your group, [Link To Item #1990737] ! Thank you for supporting the Writing.Com community with your inspirations, participation and activities. We appreciate it! -SMs    Welcome to Writing.com   *Boat2*

Greetings David Author IconMail Icon,  Welcome to Writing.com! I was pleased to read  "Only If You Love Me" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and it is my pleasure to give your writing a review.

August, 7 2025

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
This was yummm in every way. Lyrical. True. Passionate without haste. The interlacing of your poetic gift is beautifully done. And Eline...Oh my. I hope you married the girl.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
"Only If You Love Me" Open in new Window. revisits the beauty and mystery of how romantic love is born. A look. A smile. A drawing into a dance where love meets love and never stops even when two hearts misstep for a moment. Love prevails. Always.

*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
The story is written in a third person narrative form. The style is poetic with vivid pictures of surroundings, feelings and the most enchanting person on earth. Eline.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“She looked up. And smiled.
It wasn't a smile for anyone else. Not flashy, not designed to charm. It was a small, sincere curve of her lips that felt like it was meant just for him.”

The sweetest smile on earth disarms the man. Gives him inspirations about a life that no one else has ever lived. Yes. There have been a few Eline's in my life, but I could never quite capture what the gravitational pull was. You have poetically expressed it beautifully. I'll step back into the dream.
 
*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
There is a natural grip you have developed for capturing your audience and holding us through the whole story. It was a blissful read for me. Your expressions are more gentle than what most romance writers can achieve. Please do continue.


*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*
 
"Only If You Love Me" Open in new Window. is a story of two people with a chance at life together if their own misgivings about the past will dissipate with the next rainfall. The connection is beautifully painted with words that are almost lyrical. Thank you! *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(100x6@031820)_____
 (YCM_@122313)(01.13.23)
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
3
3
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Boat2* Merit Badge in Inspirational W G [Click For More Info] Congratulations on your new "Inspirational ~W~G~" merit badge for your group, [Link To Item #1990737] ! Thank you for supporting the Writing.Com community with your inspirations, participation and activities. We appreciate it! -SMs    Welcome to Writing.com   *Boat2*

Greetings Quietwriter Author IconMail Icon,  Welcome to Writing.com! I was pleased to read  "Belle Tames the Beast " Open in new Window. from your portfolio and it is my pleasure to give your writing a review.

August, 7 2025

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
I love reading your written words. Over and over they put a simple almost definable sense of warmth in my heart. Your story hints at the desperate trouble an island village is going through, and then, almost as aside, we come across a few good, very good, but unfortunately, very dead men. Mauled apparently. Not necessarily the most delightful obstacle for a village to face, but at the same time, not surprising. There is after all a savage beast on the lose. A fairy tale yes, but as all fairy tales, this one too is prone to have a hero or in this case a heroine to save the day. Nicely constructed characters and a charming initial draft.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
"Belle Tames the Beast " Open in new Window. is a tale of three well trained beast finders who are on a quest, not just to find the beast but also to discover why the beast has turned to killing the villagers on Fairy Tale Island. The flow of the story is exquisite, hitting the target audience squarely while giving us old old old readers a sweet smile or two.
*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
The story is written from an omnipotent point of view where we are able to experience the story from the perspective of the mayor, some villagers, the heroines and the mama wolf. Even as an adult my inquiring mind wants to know the deepest secrets that can be revealed. Not always possible from a single person's point of view.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“As Belle, Goldi and Alysia began walking away from the village and the safety it held, they began to have small doubts of what lay ahead. And it was those doubts that would doom them if they could not control them. And they did that by singing happy songs that brought them joy and laughter.”

Your story has some beautiful axioms to live by, and a few subtle hints that kindness and love are a supreme tool to overcome the evil around us. But what about doubt? What a strong force it can be even against the most highly trained warrior. The word "doom" is never used enough in stories as far as I'm concerned. What has doomed the village to a pleasureless night, to some degree, is the doubt that anyone can come up with a solution. This precept is brilliantly introduced into the story when every child needs to know there is a way to control what we feel, think, and do about our doubts. Great message!
 
*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
Your skill as a developer of a complexed story is only matched by your skill of keeping a difficult story line flowing warmly, with action and thought that is easy to comprehend.

There were a couple of edits that might need your attention. The only one that occurs to me at the moment is the line:
"None of the town's folk did not know where this creature came from or why it was using the night as cover to do harm to those who lived there."

I believe the line would read more clearly as:

"None of the town's folk knew where this creature came from or why it was using the night as cover to do harm to those who lived there."


*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*
 
"Belle Tames the Beast " Open in new Window. is a fairy tale with loads of lessons for young minds to grasp about heroism, wisdom, overcoming doubt, and being kind. How about the lesson about what a difference "training can make?" The narrative is warm and friendly. The words are sincere and well thought out. A wonderful story to end my day with! Thank You. *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(100x6@031820)_____
 (YCM_@122313)(01.13.23)
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
4
4
Review of To My Crush  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Boat2* Merit Badge in Inspirational W G [Click For More Info] Congratulations on your new "Inspirational ~W~G~" merit badge for your group, [Link To Item #1990737] ! Thank you for supporting the Writing.Com community with your inspirations, participation and activities. We appreciate it! -SMs    Welcome to Writing.com   *Boat2*

Greetings WriteWithJanney Author IconMail Icon,  Welcome to Writing.com! I was pleased to read  "To My Crush" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and it is my pleasure to give your writing a review.

August, 3 2025

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
"I smile when you speak." Isn't it so. The "one" has a face that radiates something ethereal with each expression. The voice has music that haunts the heart in the night. Anytime she is around I feel complete. My soul ceases to demand its own way. I only care for her. I want her to know. Your words remind me of the "one" who captured me. Unattainable? Yes. Did she know? I think so. The last day I saw her she was walking down "E" Street. She said hello. Asked if I had a new family. I said yes. She said she was glad. She is with me still.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
"To My Crush" Open in new Window. is a letter to a special someone who will always be special to the heart and soul of us, but will never become more than a person who makes us smile whenever we think of them.

*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
Written in an open prose poetry form, the lines are lyrical and each word helps to evoke an image of someone who is "already a story" whose "being" makes our senses come alive with peaceful reverie.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“It is not just your face. It is how your presence
softens my mood. How your laugh lingers longer
than it should in my mind.”

In contrast to my gray dreary world, she was filled with mirth, joy, passions for life that needed constant expression. Your voice in these lines of adoration are inspiring, uplifting and a reminder that who we love in this life carries on for an eternity. Thank You.
 
*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
You have a gift for expressing your own true vision of the life around you. I hope you will continue to fill the world with your extraordinary expressions.

*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*
 
"To My Crush" Open in new Window. is a letter that gives peace to the longing soul, as the heart has only mental pictures of the one who would ultimately complete them. We are designed to have closeness in this life. A mate for the soul. Another voice that speaks of our mutual journey, an ear to hear our never ending story. Sometimes, as the letter explains, "you are already a story I am glad to have known." *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(100x6@031820)_____
 (YCM_@122313)(01.13.23)
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
5
5
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (4.0)
*Boat2* Merit Badge in Inspirational W G [Click For More Info] Congratulations on your new "Inspirational ~W~G~" merit badge for your group, [Link To Item #1990737] ! Thank you for supporting the Writing.Com community with your inspirations, participation and activities. We appreciate it! -SMs    Welcome to Writing.com   *Boat2*

Greetings Luna Author IconMail Icon,  Welcome to Writing.com! I was pleased to read  "Beyond The Screen — chapter 1" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and it is my pleasure to give your writing a review.

August, 2 2025

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
As a future noble, the child is impressionable and yet bored with the details of why a tale is so important. Get on with the story is her wish as elements of the story occur to her even before they are spoken. I may know this as de je vu, a sixth sense provided by the Spirit, to know what can't be known, and yet I do. What I might not expect is that I have actually lived this story out...before...some other time and space. I'm intriqued.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
"Beyond The Screen — chapter 1" Open in new Window. introduces a child whose destiny is to be a noble in the kingdom in which she lives. Her life is tied to the story of the fall of mankind to the evils of the demon Diablo. Within my faith, I am quite acquainted with this entity and far from being a myth, or an opponent of the heroic he is a master of deceit, torture and death. What may or may not have happened to Diablo is at the center of this story as the main character Ari becomes aware of her strange new life.

*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
Written from the first person perspective the story is a complex mixture of what the Countess wants to tell and what the main character Ari knows, or in fact remembers. The flow is mixed between major pauses and then a much more hurried pace. There is reflection and then an almost frenetic movement down a path of trying to remember.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“My chest tightens. It hurts. It hurts so bad. My mind is a whirlwind of memories. My body is going limp.
"I remember. I remember it all"
I pass out with that last mumble. My body going limp on the chair.”

So much action in this moment even as Ari passes out. Perhaps it is because of what is happening to her physically that there is no time to dwell on other details. But then it is more than passing out or even remembering, it is an entrance into the truth about who she is. As one who walks the path with many children, I can testify to the critical importance of this moment. Adults have an almost demented need to foist their best delusions on our youth to help them be more like what's most important to them. But the child already has the imprint on their DNA from birth of who they will be. They will, with love and proper nurturing, live that truth out with all of their might.
 
*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
This is a big big story. As such, there are no shortcuts, and no end of the thousands of words to make me love Ari. Novels by nature need not be hurried. From the beginning, because of her nature, Ari is in a hurry to know, but we as the readers have to have a reason beyond the curiosity factor. I would have liked to have seen the estate for instance. The mystery will come along on its own volition because that is how stories evolve. But a more descriptive setting helps evoke the possibility of a mystery without Ari's overt jumping into it when she did. I can easily see the countess, but nobility is usually noble for a reason, if only because they are stunningly beautiful and rich.

As Ari opens up about what she knows she is feeling, there is rain on the window pane, but that is the only descriptive about the atmosphere where her feelings are happening. There are other ways to speak of that atmosphere that could show me what Ari is feeling. Dim lighting, dark walls, tapestries or pictures, furnishings, all can be used to expand the idea of atmosphere without actually saying what Ari is feeling. Our surroundings are often a reflection of our mood. If I am down, in a dimly lit room and I am done being down, I get out of the house, into the light, pray, run, drive until the mood I don't want is changed. Characters in our stories often have the surroundings corresponding to their mood because that is exactly what they want.

*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*
 
"Beyond The Screen — chapter 1" Open in new Window. is the beginning of a novel that promises to tell the story of a land called Astrelia, a countess, and a girl named Ari. The opening is a promise that there are two lives being lived out by the same person, and that that story will be a heroic one in which Diablo is once again battled, and peace restored to the joy of everyone. Thank you for sharing your gift for story telling and write on! *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(100x6@031820)_____
 (YCM_@122313)(01.13.23)
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
6
6
Review of Finally  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Boat2* Merit Badge in Inspirational W G [Click For More Info] Congratulations on your new "Inspirational ~W~G~" merit badge for your group, [Link To Item #1990737] ! Thank you for supporting the Writing.Com community with your inspirations, participation and activities. We appreciate it! -SMs    Welcome to Writing.com   *Boat2*

Greetings Marigold Author IconMail Icon,  Welcome to Writing.com! I was pleased to read  "Finally " Open in new Window. from your portfolio and it is my pleasure to give your writing a review.

July, 30 2025

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
O bless my soul for the many hours Hallmark has educated me on the beauty of the storybook wedding. The worry, anxiety, fears, foibles and joys of preparing for the best day ever is at last put into print. The piece sings forth in a pure tone, the way this special day of consecration and faith must. Rejoice! I confess I have been to more funerals than weddings, but those I have attended, (one I even officiated) when they are consecrated according to the great edicts of the Church, are sublime in everyway. Blessed are those who make the preparations for the Wedding Day despite the cost to their emotions.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
"Finally " Open in new Window. opens up a panoramic view of a real, honest to goodness, American wedding. The strain of preparing for the great day are hinted at in the characters of Alexander and Bianca, but we arrive just in time to witness the grace and beauty and charm of the bride and groom.

*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
Written from the perspective of the author, minute details of the wedding venue, members of the wedding company, the costumes, the atmosphere, and the emotions are depicted with great care and a bit of devotion.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

““…Christ abundantly blesses the love that binds you. Through a special Sacrament, he enriches and strengthens those he has already consecrated by Holy Baptism, that they may be faithful to each other for ever and assume all the responsibilities of married life. And so, in the presence of the Church, I ask you to state your intentions.””

How long it has been since I heard those words. Let's see...my last wedding was my daughter's three years ago, and even though it was conducted by clergy of the church, not one of these words was uttered. Not that there wasn't scripture and an apt admonition, still, I do miss these words. There was a Hallmark movie from a long time ago that used this liturgy, but as I say...it was a long, long, long time ago. Thank you for putting this so prominently in your story. Big blessing.
 
*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
I noticed in your Bio that Romance is not something you care to write. Yet this is one of the most romantic stories I have read in a long time. You capture so beautifully the emotions that transcend the physical desires that are often focused on in romance fiction. Believe it or not I saw serval stories in "Finally " Open in new Window.that only need your skillful touch to come to life.

*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*
 
"Finally " Open in new Window. a heartwarming tale of a wedding, celebrates the dedicated "planners" who are challenged to avert complete disaster. It is a joy to witness exactly how the wedding company prevails. The event becomes a beautiful tribute to those who give themselves in love to others to make life sunnier, worth living. Through the story we get to celebrate with the heroic friends and family who make Adrianna and Finn's glorious day, even more glorious! *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(100x6@031820)_____
 (YCM_@122313)(01.13.23)
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
7
7
for entry "~ Confidence Course ~" Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: 18+ | (5.0)
A Requested Review *Horse*
Good Evening ruwth Author IconMail Icon,  so great to hear from you. Thank you for sharing your writings. I am glad for the opportunity to review "~ Confidence Course ~" Open in new Window..  Thank you for your kind request.

July 30, 2025

*Books6*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
First of all thank you for your service. I am glad you were able to meet the challenges of a military life. It appears through your story that at the core of Air Force training is the belief that a well trained person is better prepared for the days of "action" that are inevitable in the military. I appreciate the fact that one tactic used to push recruit training forward is beautifully and euphemistically titled: "Confidence Course." Because those two words play a heavy part in your story. The obvious irony is evident. Were we confident at the end of the dunking, falling, saturation and great amusement of our drill instructors or were we more likely, "glad it is over?"

*Bookstack2*  THEME
 
Two final challenges stand before an exhausted Air Force Basic Trainee. All of her physical energy has been spent just getting to the final two obstacles. Both are water challenges. Both require strength, balance and extreme coordination. And, but for the depletion of her physical strength, it would seem she would have all that she needed to complete the challenge. Is there a power reserve in the trainee's physical body, or at least in her heart and soul? Will she reach into that power reserve?

 
*Books1*  STRUCTURE
 
"~ Confidence Course ~" Open in new Window. is a prose piece based on a real experience the author went through in basic training. The narrative keeps a light hearted tone while revealing her heart felt feelings of being stretched in all of her physical and mental capacities. Each image of the rigors she experienced is nicely detailed and keeps the interest in the story heightened.

*Books3**Bookstack*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“I did not expect to be able to catch the rope but I was wrong. I sprung through the air and successfully had that rope tightly grasped. I was half-way to success.”

The "sprung" grabs my imagination. It was important for me to know that whatever was holding the trainee back was now overcome. The effort exerted to make the water challenge has now "sprung" forth. It was the first moment in the narrative where the story is no longer about speculation. There is a shift from this point to give the reader more revelation of exactly how the risk element effects the trainee.

*Books2*  SUGGESTIONS
 
My one suggestion is that you may want to delete this paragraph:
"The good news was that I had already passed the course. There were only two
more obstacles and even if I failed them, I already had my 12/14."

You write about this in the paragraph before. If this one is eliminated the paragraph before this one and after this one could work as a good news/bad news part of the story. The good news is you have passed the course. The bad news is that everything in you is spent. Just a thought.


*Books1**Books1*  IN SUMMARY*Bookstack3*

"~ Confidence Course ~" Open in new Window. is a vivid account by one trainee who passed the 14 challenge obstacle course requirements in her basic training. She only needed to complete twelve to pass. Yet there remain two that must be taken on. Because they involve water, mud and risky maneuvers, there could be some unintended comedy. It is hard not to laugh when a character takes an unexpected dive fully clothed into the water they were expected to cross. It wasn't revealed but I can imagine the training staff were having a bit of fun at the expense of those who couldn't navigate the last two challenges of the course. Very entertaining. Thank you.   *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr*

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






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 (YCM_@122313) 04.28.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
8
8
Review of Chapter 1  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Boat2* Merit Badge in Inspirational W G [Click For More Info] Congratulations on your new "Inspirational ~W~G~" merit badge for your group, [Link To Item #1990737] ! Thank you for supporting the Writing.Com community with your inspirations, participation and activities. We appreciate it! -SMs    Welcome to Writing.com  {s-badge:1105747} *Boat2*

Greetings Nikolina Author IconMail Icon,  Welcome to Writing.com! I was pleased to read  "Chapter 1" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and it is my pleasure to give your writing a review.

July, 28 2025

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
A carefully designed few paragraphs introduce me to a detective whose life is shrouded in nostalgia. The man, Elias Riggs, is staying with an aunt and for reasons not quite clear, yet, he does not seem to have a grown man's usual tastes. He will not be confined to a "comfy" space, he wears the well-worn jacket of his grandfather generations removed from his current early am venture to a diner. The diner too seems to be stuck in another decade as well.

The narrative reads with great entertainment using quirky descriptions of "dancing with covers," "night air swallow," "sickly white light," "air smelled of nostalgia," and my favorite "iced caramel crunch extra chocolate drizzle with marshmallows."  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
"Chapter 1" Open in new Window. is the beginning of a mystery novel whose main characters Elias Riggs and Ace meet at an all-night diner to discuss some revelation of facts in a murder case that have suddenly come to light. The twenty paragraphs are designed to hook the reader into joining the two men in an investigation of a homicide that is beginning to appear to be the work of a serial killer. The air of mystery is over every aspect of this opening chapter such that the intrigue is strong by the 20th line.

*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
Written from the perspective of the author carefully blending observations about Riggs, Ace and their waitress at the diner. The perspective works well giving the author a wide range of possibilities for producing dynamite descriptive prose without the limits of one character's personality.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“"You better be dying or held at gunpoint because you just interrupted my very sacred middle-of-the-night-sandwich time."

"Ace, I am devastated to announce that my life is not currently being threatened, but I am very close to dying of boredom."

"And you want me to come and serenade you?"”

The dialogue has a flavor to it that again feels nostalgic. Not exactly antiquated, but the words evoke a feeling in me of getting to know two old friends with new technology, new philosophies and a few new evolution theories, while they them selves have not evolved. Milk shakes and caramel sodas in the middle of the night?
 
*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
I love the design, flow and flavor of what you have created here. Most of the time I read a piece over and over to get the gist of what an author is trying to say. This, as you can imagine, can get to be tedious. But your work spoke something new to me each time I read it. It gained a serious life after my fourth reading and am looking forward to more of Elias Rigg's mystery. I guess I am saying that my one suggestion is to keep on writing. Great energy.

*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*
 
"Chapter 1" Open in new Window. introduces the universe to a man whose life seems to be rooted in an age gone by, while faced with investigating a homicide that is tainted by the workings that have manifested in a much more dark and cruel age. Meeting Mr. Riggs made me smile, as a part of me lives that life, challenged by confinement of any sort and curious about how one mystery may tie itself to another and another... A very great start! *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






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 (YCM_@122313)(01.13.23)
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
9
9
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Bookmarky* Merit Badge in Inspirational W G [Click For More Info] Congratulations on your new "Inspirational ~W~G~" merit badge for your group, [Link To Item #1990737] ! Thank you for supporting the Writing.Com community with your inspirations, participation and activities. We appreciate it! -SMs  By Special Request  {s-badge:206794}*Bookmarky*

Greetings Someone Author IconMail Icon,  Thank you for your request. I was pleased to read  "The Monkey's Ink Spill" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and it is my pleasure to give your writing a review.

July, 28 2025

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
After a cursory read, which generally fires up my review engine, I was left with nothing to grasp onto. Generally I won't review anything I can't pigeon hole, you know, get it stuffed into its nice neat little cubby. This piece had defiance written all over it. So, a few days later, with many hours of pondering on what my expectations should be, I slowly peeked at a few of the words, tumbled through a bit of the imagery, and had to smile at what I found.

At third or fourth blink I finally identified my trouble spot (to get over!) Monkeys. Don't care for 'em. But in-line with the metaphor that you are in a "jungle of words," well, I'll just get over it won't I.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
"The Monkey's Ink Spill" Open in new Window. offers some serious lampooning of the idea that all forms of poetry, and probably prose itself must endure the ways of the rule makers. The author points out that a child understands the concept of story enough to create their own. So what is my struggle? Staying in the lines? What if 23 ideas are clogging up all my thought patterns and no amount of wrangling is going to put them inside the paramount, man-made forms, sanctified by the people who can make sense out of anything and then give you a rule for it.

*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
A free form prose poem with helpful headers to highlight thought shifts. The author has made himself a character whose "monkey-like" traits seem to define his need to be completely random in his thoughts, but with a need to sort them all out. I'm not given to monkey-like traits, but any serious writer of any form is gong to understand the challenge.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“(Monkey See, Monkey Do Jr.)
Little dude, he's a chip off the old block, glued to Mama's phone, soaking up stories.
Wants to read my stuff, and suddenly the well's run dry.
Last week? Found out Papa Monkey's poem bank was empty.
So he did what any self-respecting mini-monkey would do: he made up his own.”

Beautiful. This image is so absolutely grounding that its placement could not have been any more perfect. I don't know where my desire to write comes from. But in this hallowed moment you have captured, you have strummed a bit of my heart that has always wished that that desire would have come from my dad. Instead, he tried to make me a carpenter. Seriously?
 
*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
The piece accomplishes exactly what my expectations would have hoped for. I just got a group text from some friends. After streaming thoughts, pictures, emojis and emoticons (GIFS) over two years, it is the pattern your piece most closely reflects. The thoughts are succinct with light punctuation, and tell a story of how we have blended our lives these last two years, and at the end of the streams of hurts, pains, laughter, sarcasm, flippancy and heroics, what I have is a smile of great satisfaction that life is good and my friends all love each other to pieces. My one suggestion, love your Momma Bear till it hurts, they often don't last forever and hug that monkey-child who is so blessed to have a father who knows how to write. I'm sincerely jealous.

*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*
 
"The Monkey's Ink Spill" Open in new Window. invites the soul of the reader to explore the complexities of the poet's heart, mind and spirit. It will take the soul to understand the journey the author his on, because that is where the journey is going. And the journey is good, as long as there is inspiration - and inspiration is every where. Overcoming the limits. Fighting the fear. Loving the ones who know you best, laughing at the mysteries revealed and the joys of what our children bring to our lives. It Is All So Beautiful. Thank You! *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






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 (YCM_@122313)(01.13.23)
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
10
10
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*Boat2* Merit Badge in Inspirational W G [Click For More Info] Congratulations on your new "Inspirational ~W~G~" merit badge for your group, [Link To Item #1990737] ! Thank you for supporting the Writing.Com community with your inspirations, participation and activities. We appreciate it! -SMs    Welcome to Writing.com  {s-badge:206794}*Boat2*

Greetings SM Yeardley Author IconMail Icon,  Welcome to Writing.com! I was pleased to read  "The Heroes’ Rest" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and it is my pleasure to give your writing a review.

July, 24 2025

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
A mighty fine prologue indeed. The characters are given plenty of word-work to come alive and be, each one, extremely unique. The story opens with a tavern run by a husband and wife whose proximity to a dangerous land gives them a constant, and very diverse clientele. Drulla, the main character, plays manager, hostess and an insightful witness of the lives who are a part of her tavern's heritage. Through her we gain knowledge of the other important characters in the story. And through her we feel a bit of her anxiety that something isn't quite right. 

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
"The Heroes’ Rest" Open in new Window. is a wonderful opening to what I surmise to be a fantasy action novel. The prologue gives us insight into the dwarf heritage of Drulla and Merril. It sets the scene for the nature of the world in which the characters live.

*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
Written from the third person perspective, the story is seen through the eyes of Drulla. It is her narrative that brings to life the patrons of the tavern, as well as her husband and their main server Dax. The story moves quickly yet includes some touching back story to the Merril/Drulla courtship and marriage.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“As the closest tavern to the entrance of the Eldari Forests, it wasn’t uncommon for people to stop here overnight before the two-week trip through to the other side. No one came out of two weeks in the Eldari Forest looking that clean. Some didn’t make it out at all.”

By the time I read up to this paragraph I was beginning to wonder about time and space and what was the significance of the tavern. This paragraph speaks of a journey through a forest that is dangerous to cross. At the most it seems only animals would be used by the travelers to make the journey. On the other hand it could be that walking through forest was their only option. I surmise the time setting is a long long time ago and the space is near a forest from which some sojourners never come out. Subtle. But the way it is phrased I am there. I see clearly the scene in my mind.
 
*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
The piece is really marvelous fiction. I only noticed one minor problem with a sentence structure that was unclear.

The sentence was written: "He looked ready to spring into action with the sword and shield he carried at a moment’s notice."

I believe the sentence would have better clarity if it was written:
"He looked ready to spring into action at a moment's notice with the sword and shield he carried."

*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*
 
"The Heroes’ Rest" Open in new Window. gives the heart of the reader something comfortable to enter into. The prologue to a novel centers around a tavern where humans and non-humans may enjoy a few drinks and endless moments enjoying a beautiful time of refreshing. The sense is love. Romantic love between Drulla and Merril though some of the zeal has faded. The dangerous world is held at bay for a few moments of peace and genial fellowship. It is Drulla who senses the danger. By the time of the possible intrusion of the dangerous world I am delighted to be a part of this bit of community. Well done! *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






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 (YCM_@122313)(01.13.23)
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
11
11
Review of The Taste of Rust  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
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Hello Enthusiasm Author IconMail Icon, I selected "The Taste of Rust" Open in new Window. from your portfolio to read and review, as part of the WDC "Beach Party Raid 1" Open in new Window.
Thank you for joining our Writing.com community!

July 23, 2025

*Books6*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
A grim story of two men once bound by a caring friendship now bound by pure hate. The hate is not indiscriminate. Everything is worthy of hate. But maybe a broken relationship is the purest motivator. Touchy. Brash. Dark. The prose cuts away everything that could be light and goodness for humanity to reveal something mercenary. Flynn, a "broker of misery," completely used up except for the precious connection with his former friend. Arthur. What is Arthur but a "once-before-friend?" Can hatred be a true bond?

*Bookstack2*  THEME
 
What manner of man remains for the benefit of society when his whole life has been about getting everything they want at the expense of others? The story paints the gruesome picture of two men closer to death than ever before but in no hurry to see it through. One needs to exist. The other needs the hatred to feel something tangible in his own world.
 

*Books1*  STRUCTURE
 
"The Taste of Rust" Open in new Window. is a strong narrative with skillful development of the characters Arthur and Flynn. The motive seen outside this story may be difficult to comprehend, but Arthur and Flynn are believable and are developed in such a way that ultimately murder makes sense.

The suspense is in the time taken to set the reader up to believe everything in the scene is true to life. The prose is stunning and artful in every way. Reminiscent of Chandler and Spillane.

*Books3**Bookstack*  MY PONDER MOMENT
 
This was my pondering moment:

“Flynn finally turned. The face was older, harder, etched with lines Arthur didn’t know. But in the eyes, for a fleeting second, Arthur saw a flicker of the old Flynn – a spark of sharp intelligence quickly submerged in a weariness so profound it seemed geological. He took a slow sip from the cracked teacup. The gesture, so mundane, so achingly familiar, was a physical blow.”

After a quick view of what was, then the slow development of several paragraphs of what they had become, the final solution for Arthur hits a dramatic snag as he studies the face of his old friend. The solution may be right. It may be the only answer. But an image suddenly is tied to past memories and stalls the progress long enough for a change of heart?

*Books2*  SUGGESTIONS
 
Your descriptive writing is powerful. There are many stories to be told your way. I hope you have many opportunities to get them written.

*Books1**Books1*  IN SUMMARY*Bookstack3*

"The Taste of Rust" Open in new Window. grips the reader with its stark, but vivid descriptions of two men nearly over their existence here on earth. In some ways they seem like statues in the shadows brought to life by a gifted writer to perform for the reader a small bit out of junked lives. Once the audience has their emotions stirred, and their feelings sipped, Arthur and Flynn slip back into the shadows once more.  
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr*

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 (YCM_@122313) 05.20.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
12
12
Review of what u LIVE for?  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
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Hello sabr Author IconMail Icon, I selected "what u LIVE for?" Open in new Window. from your portfolio to read and review, as part of the WDC "Beach Party Raid 1" Open in new Window.
Thank you for joining our Writing.com community!

July 23, 2025

*Books6*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
As a man who has found my bliss, I love recalling the not so blissful days. When it was just about "bread and butter" with no heart satisfaction. Your words recall the times of hope and the days it took more faith than ran in my veins to get on the bus to downtown and that job - that all consuming job. And you are right. There was a burning desire, a hunger that drove me all the way to a place of satisfaction and no more longing. Fine encouragement for the ones who have for a moment lost their edge.

*Bookstack2*  THEME
 
The hunger to have more out of life is at the core of this work. I am compelled to look around at the people who serve me my coffee, my AT & T cable hook up, my breakfast burrito or repair my car. There is a hunger for more in most. It makes me glad to be a part of their world and give them a smile. There is a place of satisfaction my friends. Beautiful.
 

*Books1*  STRUCTURE
 
"what u LIVE for?" Open in new Window. is a challenge to be the one who gets beyond the everyday necessities of life to find that precious joy that gives the human heart strength to endure through every hardship. The poem has a unique rhythm and flow to it as it takes full advantage of a free form. The tone is light, though the topic has moments that require dark introspection.

*Books3**Bookstack*  MY PONDER MOMENT
 
This was my pondering moment:

“Where is the satisfaction of the heart?
Where is the smile
brighter than the sun?”

Every morning breaks with new challenges, some will beat the weary soul down, others remind us we will over come the bitterest of defeats. I am glad you captured the image of how the smile actually appears to other people who are down and out. Sometimes I smile at myself in the mirror and start laughing. It has seen me through some moments of death and destruction through which I never should have ascended.

*Books2*  SUGGESTIONS
 

You have a delightful touch with words. Your humble soul shows itself strong in how complete your expression is offered to us. I say that more of this writing is just what is needed in this world. I hope you will write on!

*Books1**Books1*  IN SUMMARY*Bookstack3*

"what u LIVE for?" Open in new Window. is a challenge to every man and woman to reach down into the heart and give every moment of every day all the zeal for life and love for breath that lives within them. Too many souls fade away when the heat comes. Life sometimes requires our strongest desire to find that place of satisfaction and bliss. Thank you for stirring my fires my friend!  
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr*

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 (YCM_@122313) 05.20.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
13
13
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
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Hello Theactual Treasure Author IconMail Icon, I selected "I Am Redeemed For the Top" Open in new Window. from your portfolio to read and review, as part of the WDC "Beach Party Raid 1" Open in new Window.
Thank you for joining our Writing.com community!

July 23, 2025

*Books6*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
Reaching the top is everything. Writers generally know this truth and spin it a number of ways. What is the top is often wrongly perceived. You my friend are lighting up the way to the way of being at the top that truly matters. Truth. You proclaim that it is God that has carried you. I am glad for that. In my experience He is faithful to carry everyone, if they will choose. I am glad He makes Himself known to everyone. I am glad you chose His way.

*Bookstack2*  THEME
 
The way of the true disciple of the one true God is defined by what we may suffer to reach the top. The Word of God proclaims it to be the Highest Place. We know that the way is open to those who ask, seek, and knock. That's all. Well then there is the endurance part, which you so eloquently put to the music of life.
 

*Books1*  STRUCTURE
 
"I Am Redeemed For the Top" Open in new Window. is a song of life performed free style and with passion. There are verses and chorus and a powerful bridge that concludes: "They’ll know,
Say Jah no be man, of course."

*Books3**Bookstack*  MY PONDER MOMENT
 
This was my pondering moment:

“I am not walking alone.
Even on days when I feel small,
I know I’m not forgotten.”

Faith in God is expressed in a powerful way. God, it seems to me, is more often interested in my smallness than in my mighty independence. The only confidence possible though is that in Him we are not forgotten.

*Books2*  SUGGESTIONS
 

You have a beautiful song writing talent. I say that more and more your words will express what your heart knows to be true. Write on!

*Books1**Books1*  IN SUMMARY*Bookstack3*

"I Am Redeemed For the Top" Open in new Window. is a confessional of what it means to climb up in the Kingdom of Light. There are no shortcuts. No pain free miles. Testing and trials are the way of faith. With out them I am a stagnant non-climber. Through each element of life's harsh reality my faith grows because God is always there to carry me through. I am glad you shared this precious song with its golden truth!  
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr*

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 (YCM_@122313) 05.20.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
14
14
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
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Hello AngelaSemaj Author IconMail Icon, I selected "“Still Inside, Thanks”" Open in new Window. from your portfolio to read and review, as part of the WDC "Beach Party Raid 1" Open in new Window.
Thank you for joining our Writing.com community!

July 23, 2025

*Books6*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
Somewhere there is an out there. What confines the heart and soul of a person? Walls. Weather. Tedium. Boredom. Politics. Pandemics. Life. There is an "in there" for every person and we need the words of my poet friends to illicit the charms and the harms in isolation and confinement. Well done my friend.

*Bookstack2*  THEME
 
Use your words. All together now: "I want to be out there! Out of here! Somewhere. Anywhere." Do you remember your first car? Getting a car was big when I was growing up. I had plenty of space to be "out" of my four walls. But I wasn't really "out there." Not until I got a car. Someday they are going to take the keys to my car away. I will remember our friendly little get together here and wonder. When can I be out there again?
 

*Books1*  STRUCTURE
 
"“Still Inside, Thanks”" Open in new Window. Is written with just enough words to propel my mind into a vision of what has been gained in the "Great Out There" and the dark days when there was only my isolation. My medications. The last words of each couplet rhyme and the tone and rhythm of the poem is full of flavor.

*Books3**Bookstack*  MY PONDER MOMENT
 
This was my pondering moment:

“I chat with walls—they're better hosts
Than humans ghosting harder than ghosts.”

Beautiful way of expressing feelings of abandonment even if it is from virtual friends. Myself, I talk to the virtual partners in my online Spades game. They are always charming. They just don't add anything to the conversation.

*Books2*  SUGGESTIONS
 
You have a gift for brevity. I don't. Well, as you can see. And I love what you accomplish with your gift. There is a lot that can't be forgotten about the bad in rainy day isolation, but there is the good as well. No farm work today. Grass will have to mow itself. Your words have brought all of the good soul stuff from my inner sanctum to the surface. My suggestion is you keep putting your experiences into the universe as quickly and fervently as you know how. Splendid work.

*Books1**Books1*  IN SUMMARY*Bookstack3*

"“Still Inside, Thanks”" Open in new Window. glows with the images of a rain that has become the master of the house, a sun that has abandoned its role in life and a car that is no more useful than a gargoyle. The words and images evoke feelings of when I was a child, or living in the college dorm, or 8 to 5 spent in a cubicle; even now the thought comes to that inevitable moment when someone else will have complete control over my life (should it come to that.) Why ponder it? Acceptance maybe. Be more soul and spirit than body and mind I suppose. The gnome makes me laugh, maybe that is why I smile at the future a bit. Thank you friend.  
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr*

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 (YCM_@122313) 05.20.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
15
15
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: 13+ | (5.0)
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Hello Nightblue Author IconMail Icon, I selected "The Question of Why and How" Open in new Window. from your portfolio to read and review, as part of the WDC: "Beach Party Raid 1" Open in new Window.
Thank you for joining our Writing.com community!

July 23, 2025

*Books6*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
I am touched deeply by the way your poem begins and ends. Some say the end is better than the beginning of something, but yours are equal in import to me. I am swayed to your poem's point of view as I am reading the Margaret Mitchell novel "Gone With The Wind." No one would read this book today. Its prose is brutally honest, filled with sarcasm and wit that lampoons every idea of war and valor but with so many words a modern reader of texts and emails would faint under the weight of it all! But the point is that she vividly draws a picture for the reader of the exact moment the Confederacy knew it had lost the war, but the "leaders", as you eloquently say, "high up the shelf," refused to surrender. As a result thousands of lives were lost, Atlanta was burned to the ground along with many smaller towns and every plantation except Tara.

You light the fires of what should burn in the hearts of poets, scribes and journalists, but is often missed. Tolstoy, Hemingway, Camus, James Jones, (From Here to Eternity) cannot, even with their amazing craft, stop egomaniacs from entering into armed conflict. But what we do, as you have done in your wonderful work, is to tell the universe and future generations that there was indeed passionate watchers on the wall decrying the perverseness of violence and open warfare. A fully conscious conscience as it were, despite the madness.

*Bookstack2*  THEME
 
The forces of humanity that fails to understand the mandate they have to guard the lives of those they rule never checks its passion for blood. More unarmed non-combatants die in war than actual warriors, yet the ruling class justifies every single loss of son or daughter by what they THINK has been bitterly gained.
 
*Books1*  STRUCTURE
 
"The Question of Why and How" Open in new Window. Is written in free form prose but with partial-rhyming of two lines in each four line verse. The form works well to jar the mind out of any complacent thoughts of "I've heard this before."

*Books3**Bookstack*  MY PONDER MOMENT
 
This was my pondering moment:

“Some spend their life with endless contemplating,
Hoping that one day they’ll find themselves stating:
Why “force”, what “death”, and how to do better,
But the minds of mortals change like the weather.”

I grew up watching movies of key battles in WWI and WWII. I believed "Might-Made-Right." I went to war. I still carry an image of a serene rice patty dotted with smallish women bent over their crops while an American Jet Bomber strafes a nearby field with napalm. Would the image correct misguided leaders in Washington DC from halting their parade of death? Perhaps. But they never saw. I went to Viet Nam believing one thing, but "like the weather," I changed my mind.

*Books2*  SUGGESTIONS
 
Your well crafted images and thoughts are extremely impactful. I am glad I had an opportunity to read your work. My only thought is "do more." Right? I appreciate you sharing some of your heartfelt truth.

*Books1**Books1*  IN SUMMARY*Bookstack3*

"The Question of Why and How" Open in new Window. sums up the end of a beautiful stream of thought with these words:
"In the end time's the wind, and we're just a leaf."
I concur with this thought from Psalm 37:2:
"...for they will soon fade like the grass, and wither like the green herb."
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr*

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 (YCM_@122313) 05.20.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
16
16
Review of Craving KitKat  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: 18+ | (5.0)
*Seahorseb* *Balloong* *Seahorseb* "WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" Open in new Window. SuperPower Newbie Summer Beach Party! *Seahorseb* *Balloong* *Seahorseb*


Hello Wildfire8470 Author IconMail Icon, I selected "Craving KitKat " Open in new Window. from your portfolio to read and review, as part of the WDC: "Beach Party Raid 1" Open in new Window.
Thank you for joining our Writing.com community!

July 23, 2025

*Books6*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
Oh ho the wonders and aorta spams of Caro...I mean the wide-eyed wild child. Brisk dialogue and psychological ponderings move this tale of two people in the tragic comedy of misdirected connections through torrid contemplation to a kind of safe harbor both Henry and Kit desperately need.

*Bookstack2*  THEME
 
Take a moment to understand the one you love. They are vicious sometimes because of the trauma of life; seemingly void of any care for what propels you through life, but what an amazing gravitational pull they have just at the point when I believe lust is abated and I only need Caro...I mean Kit's softness and nearness to be complete
 
*Books1*  STRUCTURE
 
"Craving KitKat " Open in new Window. Is a fictional piece with a solid flow. The mixture of short paragraphs and extended ones gives the piece a subtle fluidity. It's form is fine both on its surface and in the deeper moments that require pondering.

*Books3**Bookstack*  MY PONDER MOMENT
 
This was my pondering moment:

“She studied him with an expression that could fill with infinite affection, guileless innocence, or wanton lust, as quickly as she could drop an iron curtain, veiling malice, venom, and murderous intent."

I could never quite put my finger on that look. You capture that face as it is cupped in the palm of my hand. I could never raise my hand, but would anyone blame me. The torture!

*Books2*  SUGGESTIONS
 
I suspect that "Cravings" is part of a much larger story. I would say that you have defined your main characters to live on in many chapters and many adventures. I love them. But then I have lived them. I suggest you enjoy the rest of the journey with them. I know I will.

*Books1**Books1*  IN SUMMARY*Bookstack3*

"Craving KitKat " Open in new Window. is a wondrous tale about two people who should never be together and yet the dance of love is beyond human comprehension sometimes. A Jimmy Web line comes to mind: "I need you more than want you, and I want you for all time."
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr*

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 (YCM_@122313) 05.20.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
17
17
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
** Image ID #2293819 Unavailable **


Hello Tim Chiu Author IconMail Icon, I selected "May Your Heart Know Love" Open in new Window. from your portfolio to read and review, as part of the "WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group" Open in new Window.'s May Review Raid.
Thank you for your support of the Writing.com community!

May 20, 2023


*Books6*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
To love is to love love. It is a pinnacle of life experience. Some say that love has failed. So it may seem. But the question is was it a love that ascends beyond the petty and dismissive to the bonded, wedded, submissive heart kind of love. Not just in one soul, but in both hearts together creating life in every smile, grimace, and laugh. The peaks and valleys of love. The spellbinding, amazing, peaceful wonder of love. For those who have attained such bliss, the world is less virtual and more real, moment by sweet sanctified moment.

*Bookstack2*  THEME
 
There is a love that transcends the mundane. There is a love that transcends the horrors. There is a love that brings two hearts together to be meshed into each other's soul for the pure understanding of the other. One serves. Another receives. And then the roles are reversed and it is not just a flat-line endurance of life but an ever rising spiral of love, respect and joy forever more.
 

*Books1*  STRUCTURE
 
"May Your Heart Know Love" Open in new Window. is a poem written in free form with the beauty of a first person monologue. The images of windswept valleys, views from a perch and peaceful wonder, help the flow of some of the more ethereal revelations of what love is.

*Books3**Bookstack*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“I gaze in amazement at life down below and experience
A true sense of calm and peaceful wonder.
Your delight in my transcendentalized being
Must surely be intentional; I am quite uniquely absorbed
In your trust and guidance. "

A great joy in my life is to be living this reality out every moment of every day. When I am with my love, she is heartened by my calm and peaceful wonder of what God has done me, and for us together. She gives back the greatest measure of trust and counsel my heart could ever hope for and there is more than I can take in of the pleasure that rushes in.

*Books2*  SUGGESTIONS
 
Every word sang to me. My soul is refreshed. Thank You!

*Books1**Books1*  IN SUMMARY*Bookstack3*

"Make Your Dreams Come True" Open in new Window. declares that there is a love that is majestic, and superbly regal. It is a committed love where even the understanding of it all is in reach. There is love. The hope of love. The understanding of love. We are knitted together in love, often times more than we know.   *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr*


(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(101x3@021515)
(101x4@111615)_(100x6 031820)_(100x7 020923)
 (YCM_@122313) 05.20.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
18
18
Review of Thanks God!  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*CakeB* HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM "Anniversary Reviews ~ Summer Break" Open in new Window.*CakeP*


Greetings A*Monaing*Faith Author IconMail Icon, Happy Anniversary! I was pleased to read  "Thanks God!" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and delighted to give your writing a review, as my way of saying, “Congratulations On Your Anniversary On Writing.com.”

May 14, 2023
*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION

Where does our hallowed meditation begin? In wonder? In confusion? In hope of a moment with the Creator of all things? Perhaps. But a few thoughts passing in the presence of our Father, and it becomes clear that we are because of Him. Then it is our praise that begins to flow up. Why? The Lord answers that inquiry in Isaiah 43:21 He has given us all of His good that we would be His people, "...the people whom I (God) formed for myself that they might declare my praise." In the music of this poem is the hymn of praise to the God I serve, and I find joy in how much wonder there is in the act of reading and writing an ode of thanks to the Lord Most High. Adonai.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
Praise and thanksgiving.  Much of the human experience may not seem praise worthy, but when we look into the Book, God's precious words of life, we understand that every experience, good or bad, is praise worthy. To give thanks in the midst of every trial and temptation is true sacrifice. In each word I hear the voice of one who willed themselves to overcome each major challenge life has afforded.

*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
"Thanks God!" Open in new Window. is written in free form with many varied rhythms and rhymes that hint at a pattern, but the words and thoughts are not bound to any one particular scheme. 

*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“Minutiae I offer,
for Your delight;”

Everything that mankind brings to God is out of our heart of love for Him. Sometimes the offering is the thought of Him, the thanks to Him, even a sacrificial moment of joy brought to Him. We are His workmanship made for worship and praise, and in the middle of my most mundane task I can find my smile is for Him and Him alone. Small, but a tangible treasure in the courts of eternity.

*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
I loved your poem just as it is written. Thank You. *Smile*


*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*

"Thanks God!" Open in new Window. proclaims the journey a soul takes in finding a way of thanksgiving to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.   *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






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 (YCM_@122313) 05.14.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
19
19
Review of Driftwood  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: 13+ | (5.0)
*CakeB* HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM "Anniversary Reviews ~ Summer Break" Open in new Window.*CakeP*


Greetings a Sunflower in Texas Author IconMail Icon, Happy Anniversary! I was pleased to read  "Driftwood" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and delighted to give your writing a review, as my way of saying, “Congratulations On Your Anniversary On Writing.com.”

I am also pleased to review your work as part of the March WDC Super Power Reviewer's Group Raid!
Shared for Superpowers

March 22, 2023

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION

Near the sea. By the incoming wash of sultry waves. Where I would like to be. Where adventures proceed along the path of life where I have exerted myself to slide into my routine. But something is different today. The immediate washing of toes and sandals maybe is only a moment of the journey, for the storms reshape everything, speak a language that rightly terrifies those who watch out for us. Those who see the clouds, hear a new sound in the ocean's roar; are they just alarmists or do the waves truly rise to heights 30 feet above our bodies? And then a prize. Something to imagine into a wonderful trophy from a place far away from here.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
The walk on a hurricane swept beach encourages the walker to muse about the aftermath of a transforming storm. There is something once stately and strong, uprooted and dying. There is dangerous debris. There is the beauty of just being a part of something that may have originated from the headwaters of a far away island.
 
*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
"Driftwood" Open in new Window. Written in free form prose, with images and rolling rhythm tells a story filled with the sounds and vibrations of a lonely, littered stretch of peaceful coastline. In the lyric are interactions with the "dunes," "sea," "coconuts," "starfish," and "refuse." In the debris in the wake of present and past storms are a "leafless tree," "sewage syringes," and "driftwood." The scope of the prose is inspirational for those who no longer find adventure in the wonder of nature. The pictures from each line have unique meaning. And at the same time tie the whole landscape together beautifully.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“The trees, now driftwood, so smooth to touch,
from far away places, washed clean of debris
must come home with me. A craft idea will come
from the land and the seas and my pieces of driftwood.”

Yes. This is the ending. It could just as well be the beginning. Taking a walk through the passage ways of my soul, I could have lighted on many such places of "slurpy steps," gems from another place and time, leafless trees, and dangerous debris. Its all in there. Every walk may be a metaphor for life now lived. Over. Yet, finding something new that lets me know, there are creative moments still in me to enjoy with the great energy of my youth.

*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
I liked the varying line lengths and tempos in your prose. I am pleased with the way you've woven a story into a poem with many textures, sounds and images. Write on!


*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*

"Driftwood" Open in new Window. awakens my imagination to the rewards waiting a stroll out into my usual routine. I will need a dose of expectation though. It is possible to come across newly reshaped landscapes with a few simple gifs to take home. For me, it has been people. Treasures. Lately, I have been more and more surprised by the beautiful encounters I have with family and friends. More love. More genuine care and compassion has shown up all around me. What was once just routine walks on familiar beaches, often alone in my soul, now has all the possibility of being filled with wonder and the reward of love. Life is never static.   *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






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 (YCM_@122313) 03.22.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
20
20
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | N/A (Review only item.)
*CakeB* HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM "Anniversary Reviews ~ Summer Break" Open in new Window.*CakeP*


Greetings turtlemoon-dohi Author IconMail Icon, Happy Anniversary! I was pleased to read  "Walking Between Raindrops" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and delighted to give your writing a review, as my way of saying, “Congratulations On Your Anniversary On Writing.com.”

I am also pleased to review your work as part of the March WDC Super Power Reviewer's Group Raid!
Shared for Superpowers


March 22, 2023

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION

Exquisite images and flow, sets this poem in my soul's parlor front window. Here I could sit for hours listening to the fresh sounds of my native language. I know no other. So I am enriched when visited by gentle prose with no more demand on me than to enrich my quiet moments of reverie. Oh yes. I am selfish that way.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
Thoughts take off on a journey of adventure to experience the fullness of fall. It's colors, sounds and smells momentarily covered by a mist that the mind expertly whisks away. What is experienced is a moment walking in the beauty of all that is good and holy about creation.
 
*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
"Walking Between Raindrops" Open in new Window. is written in "free form" allowing the flow of the sounds to have a special life in the music the words create. The rhythm is never frantic, and the pace is easily set by how my imagination wants to revel in all the author offers to contemplate.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“Fast trekking
released an earthy perfume
stirring and blending impressions to pique all senses”

I encouraged my soul to push along at a quicker pace as these words inspired a desire to taste the essence of what was being released from the forest. Is this where I actually grew up? How did I not drink it in? Why did I squander the moments to try and impress Candy Jenkins at the Frostie Freeze? She would have never understood the passion that would awaken in me for the land of my birth. The perfume. The colors. The chorus of life, never touched by human hands. Pure. Unsullied.

*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
Perfection.


*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*

"Walking Between Raindrops" Open in new Window. celebrates one of the places a mind of extraordinary imagination can go, and paints a picture of a moment when everything is wondrous, glorious, sensual and not easily put away. Was it just something that visited me out of the mist of my youth? No. Its a living part of my soul. Thank you for reminding me to be on more walks with my soul.   *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






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(101x4@111615)_(100x6 031820)_(100x7 020923)
 (YCM_@122313) 03.22.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
21
21
Review of Spring  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*CakeB* HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM "Anniversary Reviews ~ Summer Break" Open in new Window.*CakeP*


Greetings Sharon Author IconMail Icon, Happy Anniversary! I was pleased to read  "Spring" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and delighted to give your writing a review, as my way of saying, “Congratulations On Your Anniversary On Writing.com.”

I am also pleased to review your work as part of the March WDC Super Power Reviewer's Group Raid!
Shared for Superpowers

March 22, 2023

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION

Sweet memories of a "near spring" in Gig Harbor materializes in the words of your poem, as I recall a getaway to the blessed community of retirees, arts, sailing and family. Gig Harbor. There were quiet walks through the park and the marina. A stroll through the Harbor History Museum and an amazing Burger at "The Gourmet Burger Shop." We bought a "spring flag" at a boutique, then dodged as much rain as possible, as we dashed to our car. Loved it then. Love it still, though only a memory now. The early blooming flowers were spectacular. Memorable. Your words cast an amazing vision, where gardens were filled with more evergreens than bare naked sticks and branches. Missouri.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
Every spring, near a beautiful harbor, there is the great expectation that warmth, eternal blue skies and robust colors in every garden would declare the passing of winter forever. But winter won't always let go without its last kisses of frost and gale.
 
*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
"Spring" Open in new Window. is written with a lot life in its form, rhythm and rhymes. The last line of each stanza rhymes with the last word in the following line. Every line, except the second to the last line contains 8 syllables. Within this form the poem keeps a spritely tone and is pleasant to read.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“Spring's arrived, but winter stays
to cool the air for those who play”

I never noticed micro climates until I moved to Washington. I worked in Queen Anne where spring would arrive in force long before March 20th, but at home, in Shoreline, just 12 miles away, spring never arrived until May! Gig Harbor was brilliant and warm the day we arrived in the middle of February, and snowing a day later when we left. But the beauty of it all? Oh my the exquisite beauty no matter the season. In the Midwest? - We pray fervently for spring!

*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
I loved your poem just as it is written. Thank You. *Smile*


*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*

"Spring" Open in new Window. declares that the breezes, and freezes, and momentary warmth, lost in a rain filled wind are all part of what keeps the soul on edge waiting for spring. It is in the flowers, that the glorious promise of spring resides. To see them is a lift to even the chilliest of hearts!   *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






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(101x4@111615)_(100x6 031820)_(100x7 020923)
 (YCM_@122313) 03.22.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
22
22
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*CakeB* HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM "Anniversary Reviews ~ Summer Break" Open in new Window.*CakeP*


Greetings PENsive is Meemaw x 3! Author IconMail Icon, Happy Anniversary! I was pleased to read  "The Miracle of Friends" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and delighted to give your writing a review, as my way of saying, “Congratulations On Your Anniversary On Writing.com.”

I am also pleased to review your work as part of the March WDC Super Power Reviewer's Group Raid!
Shared for Superpowers

March 22, 2023

*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION

It is good to remember how blessed we are to have friends in our lives. Whether they sit with us after our surgery, or take care of the many things that are put on hold during recovery, friends are a gift from heaven. Being a friend of help and support is a joy, as well, and while there is always the giving and receiving, all are blessed as the relational bonds grow in strength.  

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
A mom must go into rehab. Her child Jeffrey, reticent to be away from his mom, is finally convinced by a good friend, to be a part of their family for the time it takes mom to recover. The road to building trust and acceptance with Jeffrey is a central part of how much the mom is served by her friends, in her recovery.
 
*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
"The Miracle of Friends" Open in new Window. is told in a first person narrative style, but from the perspective of her friends and Jeffrey. The dialogue is honest and helps move the story in a clear, objective manner. The mom's voice is most evident when she speaks of what Jeffrey is experiencing. Mom's know, sometimes even when we, as children, don't exactly know what is going on.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“She turned to leave the building with Stephen, and started towards the door. She took a few steps when she heard a couple of running steps on the linoleum floor and then felt a couple of gentle tugs on the hem of her dress. She turned, facing little Jeffrey once again. He looked up at her, not saying anything.”

I love children. It has been a journey to obtain love and satisfaction when being in their company. But this scene rings so true. What I may see as minor adjustments in attitude and emotional intelligence in a child, is actually huge! When the barriers to creating friendships cannot be overcome without the gentle nudge of a loving adult, loving adults need to step up. The kindness of Stephen's mom will be remembered by Jeffrey all the rest of his life because she helped to overcome a fear that would have only served to keep him alone and disconnected from life, probably for the rest of his life.

*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
Very well done. I look forward to reading your next entry in the story.


*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*

"The Miracle of Friends" Open in new Window. is a story from the heart of one who is both healing but at the same time rejoicing. Giving thanks for friendships and the specific ways friendship come "to the rescue," is a healing tonic in itself. The story expresses the wonder of seeing ones' child accepted, loved and encouraged at the point when it is most critical for both mother and son. With every reading I was reminded to be thankful for the friends who have been my solace in times of struggle and pain. Thank you.   *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(101x3@021515)
(101x4@111615)_(100x6 031820)_(100x7 020923)
 (YCM_@122313) 03.22.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
23
23
Review of Another day given  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
Inspirational Work Of Praise *Horse*


Good Morning G. B. Williams Author IconMail Icon, I have enjoyed your writing and was pleased to read  "Another day given" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and delighted to give your writing a review. As an exceptional inspirational poem, I am nominating it as "The Most Inspirational Poem" of the month. I am glad you make such a great contribution to WDC.

March 15, 2023


*Books6*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 

The goodness of God is every where. The goodness is especially evident in the "day given." It is in the day given to us by God that we find a voice to praise Him. We discover the words that exalt Him. We discover the reasons to take more time to be exuberant and celebratory of how much He loves us and cares for us. Your words inspire. Your words elevate my thoughts to the realm where God is Sovereign over everything that ever was, and is and will be. Thank you for given so much of yourself into crafting this wonderful song of praise.

*Bookstack2*  THEME
 
God is everything. We can know that God is in all, and above it all, because of the day that He has given. Considering the ferocity of natural forces, the wonder of seasons, and the "feet" on which I stand at the dawning of the day, praise is the desire of this day, and every day. Praise to the One who has gifted us with many days, and then eternity.

 
*Books1*  STRUCTURE
 
"Another day given" Open in new Window. is written in free form couplets that emphasize the Lordship of God Almighty, in contrast to some of the toughest seasons we may experience in life. The cadence of the verses is bright, and the images inspire one to consider not just the forces that stand up to resist our desire for peace and tranquility, but to give praise to the God who will help us to prevail from now through the new life in heaven.
 
*Books3**Bookstack*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“Life feels just right and as it should be, and I am awake and on my feet.
Another day given.”

Nothing can dull our senses to the goodness of God, if we consider that God gives us a new day. Until the Lord Jesus calls His bride up from this earth to be with Him, the saints of God will, even in giving their lives for others, enjoy the beauty of His presence which makes every day, bright, beautiful and a joy to live.


*Books2*  SUGGESTIONS
 

I loved the poem just as you have created it. Thank you.

*Books1**Books1*  IN SUMMARY*Bookstack3*

"Another day given" Open in new Window. celebrates the Glorious God of Heaven and earth; the Maker of all things and the Lord of all things. The center of the work is a concentration on where our praise for the God Israel arise. We are His creation and it is He that puts us on our feet to run into the day with exuberant praise. Truly the words and images inspire the heart to hope in the Great I Am!   *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr*

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(101x3@021515)
(101x4@111615)_(100x6 031820)_(100x7 020923)
 (YCM_@122313) 03.15.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
24
24
Review of Talking Story  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*CakeB* HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM "Anniversary Reviews ~ Summer Break" Open in new Window.*CakeP*


Greetings Fyn Author IconMail Icon, Happy Anniversary! I was pleased to read  "Talking Story" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and delighted to give your writing a review, as my way of saying, “Congratulations On Your Anniversary On Writing.com.”

March 9, 2023


*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION
 
I love history, mist-ory, myth-story, threads of time collapsing on a junior in high schooler, wondering if he would ever enjoy the pondering of Babylonians, Assyrians, Persians and Greeks. Oh..did I leave out the Egyptians and my dearest Hebrews, children of Abraham? I could map it, time line it and thanks to old movies and TV I could even imagine it. Two threads emerge, and I find those threads in my own nature, empire building and war. Whether its Babylon's rise to conquer everything or the cattlemen against the sheep farmers of the old west, who rules is determined by the peasant's blood.

After we attain such revelations about "tapestries," "destinies," "bloodlines," "patterns," and "our stories," what then. Aha! Teach the lessons, accumulate the lessons and never ever ever forget.

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
It is paramount to learn history, even if, with time, it gets tangled into a nearly incomprehensible jumble of facts, non-facts, new facts, hard facts and soft facts. Then, when all seems absolutely misty clear, one may act out in a way that demonstrates history is our friend, because as our friends, friend history, we have a solid foundation of reason to have fund the most colossal arsenal on earth to protect our American treasure! Maybe I'll sleep well tonight. Hmmm. Maybe I won't.

 
*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
"Talking Story" Open in new Window. is a unique free form poem written in four line stanzas. The rhyme in each verse is created by the repeating of the same word at the end of line 2 and 4. The meter begins with the first verse using 8 syllables in each line. This opens up in the following verses, with a wider selection of rhythm from line to line.

The words, images, tone and pace of the prose is appealing and it is easy to be caught up in both the theme and the music of the piece.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“Mists swirl the myths of time
into threads new tapestries to weave.
Ancient bloodlines draw yet new tales
so it is and so we weave.”

I like that the first line of this verse flips around the words of the opening line of the poem to present a whole new vision of how the threads of history are woven out of myth, and the legacy of one generation left for the next. Also, the bloodiness of what was, somehow now has become a bloodline. As suddenly kings appear and individual nations are carved out of empires, what must be told to the populace to peacefully separate the royal from the common? And then poof! They too, nearly all, disappear.


*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
I think this is perfect the way it has been written.


*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*

"Talking Story" Open in new Window. encourages the ponderer to ponder some more. What am I taking away from my history studies? Since search engines have become highways to instant libraries, I now know more about President Eisenhower's war record, and years as president than ever before. I am swept into every battle that was fought in the Boer wars and the Crimean. Have we learned then from these conflicts, the rise of one power over another and the fading away of a nation? I'll not make a politically biased comment here, I'll just say I'm an ancient warrior whose time of service has not ended and I'll be hyper vigilant tonight!   *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

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#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(101x3@021515)
(101x4@111615)_(100x6 031820)_(100x7 020923)
 (YCM_@122313) 03.09.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


*Gold* My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" Open in new Window..
25
25
Review of Take me away  Open in new Window.
Review by ♫~ Kenword~♫ Author IconMail Icon
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  Open in new Window.
Rated: E | (5.0)
*CakeB* HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM "Anniversary Reviews ~ Summer Break" Open in new Window.*CakeP*


Greetings Starr Author IconMail Icon, Happy Anniversary! I was pleased to read  "Take me away" Open in new Window. from your portfolio and delighted to give your writing a review, as my way of saying, “Congratulations On Your Anniversary On Writing.com.”

March 9, 2023


*Coffeer*  FIRST IMPRESSION

 We could be seeking the pastoral, uncomplicated regions of the country. Leave behind the stress, and mayhem of a shoulder to shoulder existence. The village life perhaps; where the nearest drama and chaos is twenty miles away. There is a land of "far...far...away!" There is a land where trees dance in the breeze. I call it Missouri, but any place on earth where the clog of humanity gets untangled might serve as a place to establish a homestead. A homestead where ponds abound with fish and fowl, forests protect birds and rabbits, squirrels and deer thrive. Some might say, "is the serene quiet worth the sacrifice of not living sandwiched between other living souls?" *Smirk2*

*Coffeer*  THEME
 
It is time to fly away to the open expanses of the undeveloped lands. There are plenty of those, though the city-bound-economically trapped souls of the urban colossus would lie and say that the amount of natural preserve is extremely limited (diminishing) - "not making anymore" - But the suspicious heart buckles up for the great exploration and jumps out beyond the big city lights to experience acre after acre of uncorrupted natural beauty. Will I answer the call of the open fields, mountains, woods and meadows? The Lord God who made it all definitely bids me come. Then its "Settle down my son. Settle in."
 
*Coffeer*  STRUCTURE
 
"Take me away" Open in new Window. is a free form poem written in 8 stanzas of various lengths. The lines too are in free form. The flow is graceful and the words blend sounds and rhythm in a meter that is easy to embrace. Words like: "breeze," "serenity," "peace," "soothe," and "gaze," brings the poem to a graceful, joyful conclusion.
 
*Coffeer**Coffeer*  MY FAVORITE MOMENT
 
This was my favorite moment:

“I want to go where the whippoorwill calls

Feel all the mist cascading off the waterfalls

Feeling the grass underhand

Reacquainting myself with the land.”

I have had this joy. I abhorred the "sticks" as my city friends called it when I was growing up. My bedroom, only a few hundred feet from Everett's pond, was always filled with the sounds of croaking bull frogs, crickets, red-winged black birds and blue jays. When the cow was past milking or couldn't get untangled from the briar patch, she'd pierce the evening serenity with her bawling howls. Ironic that after twenty years working in Seattle I would crave it again. But I thank God, I knew the way back. I am restored to life again.

*Coffeer*  SUGGESTIONS
 
This was the perfect treat for me today. I will revisit your words from time to time to remind myself what I have been blessed with now, and what price I paid to arrive here. Thank you.


*Coffeer**Coffeer*  IN SUMMARY*Coffeer**Coffeer*

"Take me away" Open in new Window. puts some demands on the soul, the mind and spirit of mankind to consider the price one pays for living the "good life" in the big city compared to the restful, peaceful, serene possibilities of the transforming life of being wedded to nature and all that is naturally good. One cannot help taking to heart the admonition of the poet that proximity to what has been naturally created is a much greater benefit to one's life than the congestive, heart-stopping pace of the city.   *Smile*
 
I hope my thoughts and impressions have been a help. Let me know if you have any questions about my review.
 
Kind Regards,

*Music2*~Kenword~*Music2* *Mugr**MugR*
 

Please Visit ▼


GROUP
WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group Open in new Window. (E)
Join the fun! We inspire reviewers through kindness and learning! Winner of eight Quills!
#1300305 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon






(101@100513)_(101x2@030614)_(101x3@021515)
(101x4@111615)_(100x6 031820)_(100x7 020923)
 (YCM_@122313) 03.09.23
(Recognition 300 11.29.22)


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