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125 Public Reviews Given
125 Total Reviews Given
Public Reviews
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 18+ | (3.5)
"I Called Him Kicky" offers a poignant and heartbreaking reflection on the devastating poverty and neglect encountered by the author in Mali, Africa. The narrative is powerful in its emotional depth, capturing the anguish of witnessing human suffering and the indifference of those in power. The story is vivid in its description of the malnourished children, especially the boy named Kicky, whose tragic fate becomes the central theme of the piece. The writer effectively uses sensory imagery to convey the bleakness of the environment, creating a visceral experience for the reader.

However, the piece could benefit from clearer narrative structure and pacing. At times, the shifts between past and present are abrupt, which may confuse readers. The emotional intensity of the story, while compelling, risks overwhelming the reader without sufficient reflection or insight into the author’s internal struggle. The inclusion of personal anecdotes, such as the author’s interactions with other engineers and the guards, adds depth but could be more tightly connected to the central narrative of Kicky’s death.

Additionally, some of the dialogue and internal monologue, especially the author’s emotional outbursts, could be streamlined for clarity. The author’s strong reaction to the events, particularly their final musings about corporal Nepolian and their own guilt, is thought-provoking but may benefit from a more measured tone to avoid alienating the reader. Despite these structural challenges, the story’s raw emotion and poignant commentary on the human condition leave a lasting impression.
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Review of The Kiss  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 18+ | (3.5)
"The Kiss" presents an intriguing and emotionally complex narrative, but it can be critiqued for its overuse of idealized or exaggerated descriptions. The protagonist’s intense admiration for Emily and the surrounding fantasy elements risk feeling overly sentimental or exaggerated at times, diminishing the impact of the emotional depth. The characterization of the elves, while creative, occasionally detracts from the story's central human element, making it harder for readers to connect with the characters on a deeper, more relatable level. The sudden shifts in tone, particularly the sudden insertion of humor or adult themes, may leave the reader unsure of the intended audience or mood. Despite these issues, the vivid and detailed world-building adds an original layer to the story, which would benefit from a more cohesive approach to character development and tone consistency.
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Review of As My Love Dies  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
"As My Love Dies" by Kathie Prance is a poignant and deeply emotional poem capturing the raw anguish of watching a loved one fade away. The imagery is vivid and evocative, bringing to life the speaker's pain, helplessness, and yearning for connection amidst impending loss. The juxtaposition of tender memories with the harsh reality of the present creates a hauntingly beautiful contrast. The metaphorical language, such as "a tiny clock chimed your last heartbeat" and "babies cradled between us," evokes a profound sense of love and grief. While the poem conveys intense emotion effectively, some transitions between stanzas feel abrupt, slightly detracting from the narrative flow. Overall, it is a heartfelt piece that immerses readers in the universal experience of love, loss, and remembrance.
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Review of Ravens' Revenge  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"Ravens' Revenge" is a spirited and intense poem that captures the defiance and resilience of its narrator. The repetition of action words like "poke me" and "defend" reinforces the sense of urgency and determination, creating a rhythm that mirrors the narrator's unyielding stance. The imagery of the eagle, symbolizing strength and a looming threat, adds depth to the theme of survival and resistance. However, the poem's brevity limits the exploration of its central conflict, leaving the reader curious about the underlying context. Overall, it is a vivid and dynamic piece that effectively conveys a battle-ready resolve.
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Review of A Secret Life  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: ASR | (3.5)
"A Secret Life" is a playful and witty limerick that cleverly juxtaposes the refined persona of Countess Bath-Starr-y with the bold, action-packed alter ego of Wonder Woman. The rhyme scheme is executed effectively, and the whimsical tone adds charm to the piece. The humorous detail about her attire—specifically omitting tights—injects a quirky individuality into the portrayal, setting it apart from typical superhero tropes. However, the limerick's brevity leaves little room for deeper exploration of the character's duality, which could add more intrigue. Overall, it is an amusing and lighthearted poem that delivers its punchline with finesse.
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Review of The Lost Coin  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"The Lost Coin" is a charming and wholesome tale that blends childhood curiosity, sibling dynamics, and a gentle moral lesson about honesty and generosity. The narrative paints a vivid springtime setting, rich with sensory details that ground the reader in Penny and Andy's playful world. The discovery of the ancient Greek coin serves as an engaging catalyst for the story, with the siblings’ initial excitement giving way to a meaningful decision.

The characters are well-drawn, especially Andy, whose struggle between selfishness and doing the right thing feels authentic and relatable. Penny’s encouragement and Peter’s understanding response reinforce the themes of kindness and mutual support. The dialogue, while straightforward, captures the innocence of childhood interactions effectively. However, the resolution, involving the offer of replica coins, feels slightly contrived, wrapping the story in a bow that could benefit from a touch more subtlety.

Overall, "The Lost Coin" succeeds as a delightful and morally uplifting story, though a more nuanced conclusion could add depth and resonance to the message.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"Among the Wind Chimes" effectively captures the chaotic yet intimate atmosphere of a holiday shopping trip, blending humor, romance, and a touch of sensuality. The scene starts strong, immediately placing Adam amidst the relatable chaos of crowded aisles. The playful interaction between Adam and Stevie is well-crafted, their dynamic balancing lighthearted teasing with a simmering romantic tension that builds naturally.

The sensory details—Stevie’s grassy-sweet perfume, the quail’s bounce, and the warmth of her breath—enrich the narrative, immersing the reader in their moment. However, some descriptions, particularly Adam’s reaction to Stevie bending over, risk veering into objectification, which may detract from the authenticity of their connection. The dialogue is engaging, though Adam’s sudden emotional admission feels slightly rushed, lacking the buildup needed for such a pivotal moment.

The ending provides a satisfying resolution, with a kiss that feels both inevitable and earned. Overall, the story’s strength lies in its vivid imagery and the palpable chemistry between the characters, though tightening the pacing and refining the balance between humor and sensuality could enhance its impact.
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Review of Deceit  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"Deceit" captures a deep sense of emotional disconnection through vivid, poignant imagery. The juxtaposition of "azure ghosts" and "melancholy interludes" effectively evokes a feeling of sadness and loneliness. The use of sensory imagery, such as "meaningless sounds" and "silent breezes," emphasizes the emptiness between the speaker and the subject. The poem's strength lies in its exploration of broken promises and unreciprocated emotions, as conveyed through the metaphor of "eyes making promises your heart will never keep." However, the poem may benefit from slightly more clarity in its progression, as it leans heavily on abstract concepts. Overall, it successfully communicates the pain of emotional deceit with evocative language.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
This chapter provides an engaging glimpse into the dynamics between Liam, his family, and Allison, but there are a few areas for improvement.

Pacing and Description: The description of the house and the family gathering is rich but occasionally slows down the narrative. While the grand setting is important for atmosphere, some details (like the exact size of the rooms and the types of furniture) could be condensed to maintain the pacing.

Character Dynamics: The interactions between Liam, his family, and Allison are the emotional heart of the chapter. However, the dialogue sometimes feels a bit too exposition-heavy, particularly in the exchanges between Liam and his father, Ron. Rather than repeatedly telling us how much Ron wants Liam to join the family business, showing his emotional frustration more subtly could make these moments feel more organic and less forced.

Dialogue: Some of the dialogue feels on-the-nose or overly stylized. For example, Ron’s sudden shift to a heartfelt plea for Liam to come back to the family business feels somewhat out of place after his harsh outburst. The transition from brash to sentimental could be made more fluid.

Character Development: While we get a sense of Liam’s resistance to his father’s expectations, we don't see much of Allison's perspective or role in the scene. She fades into the background after the initial interaction, which detracts from her agency in the chapter.

Emotional Impact: The conflict with Ron is central to the chapter, but Liam's response to Ron’s outburst seems a bit understated. Given the intensity of their relationship, a deeper emotional reaction would heighten the stakes of the moment.

In summary, the chapter has a lot of potential but would benefit from tighter pacing, more nuanced dialogue, and a stronger emotional arc for both the protagonist and supporting characters.
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Review of The Hunter  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 18+ | (3.5)

This opening chapter of The Hunter introduces an intriguing protagonist, Eva, who is clearly entrenched in a world of supernatural conflict, emotional complexity, and dark humor. The narrative successfully sets up a gritty, action-packed tone with a strong focus on Eva's internal struggles and interactions with the mysterious Ariel.

Strengths:

Character Depth: Eva's internal monologue and dialogue reveal a well-developed, cynical character with a complex history, possibly spanning centuries. Her conflict with her identity and the war between good and evil adds layers to her character.
World-building: The hints of a supernatural realm, including demons, demigods, and ancient spells, create a rich and dynamic setting. The backstory of the demon-summoning spell adds a sense of mystery and impending danger.
Dialogue: The banter between Eva and Ariel is sharp and engaging, with clear tension between the two characters. This dynamic keeps the interaction interesting and adds to the sense of conflict.
Weaknesses: Pacing: The chapter feels somewhat rushed in places. There is an immediate dive into action and backstory without much build-up or explanation, which may leave readers a bit disoriented. More gradual introduction to the world and its rules could enhance the immersion.
Exposition: While the dialogue is strong, there are moments where it feels like the characters are talking to the reader, especially when discussing the ancient spell or Eva’s history. A more subtle approach to world-building might make the information feel less forced.
Consistency of Tone: Eva's sarcasm and dark humor are consistent, but at times the shift between action, reflection, and exposition feels abrupt. A smoother flow between these elements could enhance the overall reading experience.
Overall, this chapter effectively sets up an engaging supernatural thriller, with strong potential for character development and plot twists. However, the pacing and exposition could be tightened to create a more immersive and cohesive narrative.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"Preparing the Ultimate Hospital Bag" provides a comprehensive, practical guide for expectant parents, ensuring they are well-prepared for the hospital stay. The structure is clear, covering key areas such as essential items for the mother, baby, partner, and important documents. The inclusion of special considerations for Cesarean section, premature birth, and multiple births is a valuable addition. However, while the content is thorough, it could benefit from more specific advice or examples, particularly in the "Special Considerations" section, to enhance its relevance to a broader audience. Additionally, the checklist could be more detailed to avoid any oversights. The tone is supportive, offering helpful tips for a stress-free experience, but it may feel a bit general for those looking for more in-depth guidance.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
This article effectively raises awareness of food insecurity and highlights Philabundance's mission, but it falls short in fully engaging readers through actionable clarity and emotional resonance. While it outlines the importance of supporting food pantries and frames Philabundance as a solution, the repetitive mentions of "food pantry near me" appear overly SEO-driven, detracting from the sincerity of the message. Additionally, the piece leans heavily on general statements, such as the impact of $1 donations or the benefits of volunteering, without providing fresh or detailed insights that would make the message truly compelling. Strengthening the narrative with personal stories or testimonials from those helped by Philabundance could create a stronger emotional connection, inspiring readers to take action. Lastly, the overemphasis on tax benefits as a reason to donate risks undermining the altruistic tone of the article. While informative, the piece would benefit from more authenticity and less reliance on formulaic appeals.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)

"God, Prayer and People" is a reflective piece that critiques the performative nature of prayer and devotion, focusing on the disconnect between spiritual practice and true emotional or moral growth. The writer offers an insightful perspective on human nature, particularly how people often approach prayer for material gain rather than spiritual fulfillment. The tone is somewhat cynical, which may alienate readers who view prayer as a sincere, personal practice. The critique of devotion and its association with greed and jealousy is thought-provoking, but the piece could benefit from more balance or exploration of how prayer can also foster genuine change. Overall, the narrative raises important questions but may leave some readers yearning for a more nuanced exploration of faith and human nature.
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Review of Breaking the Ice  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"Breaking the Ice" presents an engaging, action-packed scenario that introduces an unexpected connection between Amber and Logan, with a humorous twist at the end. The premise of a flooded apartment, a handsome stranger, and a frantic rescue creates a sense of urgency and intrigue. The dialogue feels natural and light, contributing to the rapid pacing of the story. However, the plot relies heavily on coincidence and a series of quick, implausible events, which may weaken its believability. While the characters are given distinct traits (Amber's urgency, Logan's calm confidence), their interactions lack deeper emotional development. The ending offers a light-hearted resolution, though it feels a bit rushed and could benefit from a more developed conclusion to tie up the emotional arc.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"Spring On A Sunny Day" captures the tranquility and beauty of nature during spring, painting a serene picture of a walk through a blossoming landscape. The imagery of daffodils, bluebells, and a newly ploughed field evokes a peaceful scene, while the gentle rhythm of the poem reflects the calming effect of nature. The use of sensory details, such as the "coolness upon my face" and the "rustle from the leaves," enhances the immersive experience. However, the poem's simplicity and straightforwardness, while effective, risk feeling somewhat clichéd, as it touches on familiar springtime motifs without adding a unique or deeper insight. The final question about the "pleasant peacefulness" introduces a hint of introspection, but it feels underdeveloped, leaving the poem more observational than reflective.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"When You're Loved by a Writer" explores the intense, almost mystical connection between a writer and their muse. The poem captures the idealization of love through a writer’s perspective, portraying it as a divine, eternal bond that elevates the beloved beyond earthly limits. The recurring metaphors, such as "a Bible of Love" and "the heartbeat of every story," highlight the muse’s centrality to the writer’s creative process. The idea of love being both a "blessing" and a "burden" adds emotional depth, suggesting the complexity of inspiration and its pressures. While the poem effectively conveys the grandeur of this relationship, it risks falling into melodrama with its somewhat repetitive language and grandiose expressions. It might benefit from greater nuance to avoid leaning too heavily on idealization. Nonetheless, it succeeds in evoking a powerful sense of romanticized admiration.
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Review of Apparition  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
"Apparition" skillfully evokes a sense of eerie tension and mystery through its vivid imagery and dark, atmospheric language. The fog, "clammy fingers," and "fetid air" set a chilling tone, while the description of the road and the surrounding forest adds to the feeling of isolation. The tension between the headlights and tail lights, representing the phantom-like presence of vehicles, heightens the poem's sense of a supernatural confrontation. The phrase "eldritch joust" is particularly effective, drawing on the imagery of an otherworldly battle. However, the poem's structure could be more fluid, as some lines feel more forced or cumbersome than others. The sudden, almost anticlimactic ending, where the collision vanishes "instant erased," leaves the reader longing for a more defined resolution. Overall, the poem succeeds in creating a haunting, suspenseful atmosphere, but could benefit from refining its pacing and concluding more memorably.
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Review of Gypsy [#30]  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
"Gypsy" is a nostalgic and evocative tribute to a café that serves as a sanctuary for creativity and community. The imagery of stained glass and scattered furniture creates a vivid picture of the space, while the celebration of diverse voices—artists, poets, and musicians—emphasizes the café’s role as a hub for expression and connection. The use of contrast between joy and rage, music and poetry, adds depth to the portrayal of the café's lively, inclusive spirit. However, the repeated refrain of “she’s still there” may feel a bit too sentimental in the closing lines, losing some of the initial impact. The poem’s rhythm and tone effectively capture the vibrancy of a space that nurtures artistic expression and unity, though some tightening of the language could enhance its emotional punch. Overall, it’s a warm and fond homage to the power of art and community.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
"The Beast is Coming" uses a playful personification of grass blades to explore themes of pride, arrogance, and inevitable downfall. The dialogue between the tall, confident blade of grass and the humble one provides a contrast that drives the narrative, effectively illustrating the transient nature of glory. The interaction is engaging, using humor to show how the tall blade dismisses the warnings of the shorter one. The surprise twist, where the blade faces the inevitable mowing, adds a layer of irony and serves as a cautionary message about overconfidence. However, the tone can feel somewhat repetitive, especially in the taller blade’s dismissive remarks, and the shift in voice towards the end could be more seamless. The metaphor of "The Beast" is effective, but the pacing toward the revelation could be tightened to heighten tension. Overall, the story is thought-provoking and clever, with a mix of humor and insight into the impermanence of power.
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Review of Broken Promises  Open in new Window.
Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"Broken Promises" poignantly addresses humanity's neglect of nature and the consequences of environmental destruction. The poem's structure effectively mirrors its themes of cause and effect, with clear, accessible language that brings urgency to the message. It highlights the imbalance between nature and human actions, using vivid imagery like "monsoon in Burma" and "glaciers melting" to create a sense of global crisis. However, the poem occasionally feels repetitive, particularly in its portrayal of environmental degradation and the call to action. While the final verses offer hope, they may feel somewhat idealistic, considering the dire tone earlier in the piece. Overall, the poem succeeds in raising awareness about environmental issues but could benefit from a more varied approach to its imagery and themes to deepen its impact.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"Grief Mistaken for Response: A Spectrum" explores the complexity of emotional reactions, offering a nuanced portrayal of how grief can be misunderstood or misinterpreted. The title effectively hints at a deeper commentary on the spectrum of human emotions and the ways they can be misread by others. The poem's structure and language convey a sense of internal conflict, though at times it could benefit from more clarity or specificity to guide the reader through the emotional shifts. The idea of grief as a spectrum is intriguing, but the poem may leave some readers wanting more concrete examples or emotional depth to fully grasp the speaker's experience. Overall, it raises thoughtful questions about perception and emotional response but could be enriched by more vivid imagery or clearer distinctions between different stages of grief.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
The poem "Im Pensive Not Depressed" offers a thoughtful exploration of inner conflict, though the title contains a grammatical issue—"Im" should be "I'm" with an apostrophe to reflect proper contraction. The poem effectively contrasts pensive reflection with the experience of depression, giving a sense of introspection. The line breaks and pacing allow the reader to feel the speaker’s mental tension, but there could be more clarity in conveying the distinction between the two emotional states. Strengthening the imagery or expanding on the specific feelings of pensiveness could deepen the emotional resonance. Overall, it communicates a compelling theme but could benefit from a more precise exploration of the emotional nuances.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 18+ | (3.5)
"Emily, her Elves, and the Bank" is a whimsical, chaotic, and deeply imaginative narrative that combines humor, fantasy, and a bit of crude irreverence to tell the story of a character named Emily and her mysterious bank elves. The introduction offers an intriguing setting, describing a bank that is warmer and more heartful than most, primarily due to the presence of Emily. However, the focus quickly shifts to Emily’s over-the-top and seemingly endless array of adoring titles bestowed upon her by the elves, which serves to exaggerate her kindness and influence. The humor in these epithets, while amusing, might become repetitive for some readers, detracting from the deeper qualities of Emily’s character.

The narrative quickly veers into a wild description of the elves themselves—quirky, mischievous, and surprisingly benevolent in their nightly activities. The elves’ devotion to Emily is portrayed through their nightly escapades, which include fixing wrongs and healing wounds in a humorous, albeit chaotic manner. The boys’ enthusiastic approach contrasts with the more serene, calculated nature of the girls, who provide magical support. This dynamic between the elves introduces a playful, almost slapstick energy to the story, filled with absurd moments that highlight the elves’ antics.

While the playful tone and creative world-building are enjoyable, the story occasionally veers into areas of unnecessary crude humor (such as references to drug use and potty jokes) that may alienate some readers. The introduction of imps as villains further shifts the story's focus into action-packed, fantastical territory, yet the battle with these imps is depicted with exaggerated violence and quirky weapons conjured by the elves, emphasizing the chaotic energy of the story. The narrative’s attempt at blending adventure with humor may appeal to fans of absurd fantasy, but its tone could use more consistency to avoid feeling jarring. Overall, the story is a fun, if at times bewildering, read that balances whimsical fantasy with moments of crude humor and fantasy violence.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: E | (3.5)
"Winter Doesn’t Last" offers an optimistic perspective on the challenges of life, using the metaphor of winter to represent hardship and the eventual return of warmth and renewal. The poem effectively conveys a sense of resilience, urging readers to hold onto hope during difficult times. Its simplicity in language allows for universal understanding, making it relatable to a wide audience. However, the message, while positive, may feel somewhat predictable, as it follows a common theme of perseverance through adversity. The structure is straightforward, with a clear progression from cold to warmth, though it could benefit from more varied imagery or depth to elevate the emotional impact. Overall, the poem serves as a gentle reminder of the transience of hardship but lacks the complexity to leave a lasting, profound impression.
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Review by Chellé Rostykus Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 18+ | N/A (Review only item.)
The narrative presents an engaging mix of historical fiction and time-travel science fiction, with the main character, Conner McCoy, navigating a pivotal moment in history—the Battle of Stamford Bridge. The writing captures a visceral, chaotic battlefield with rich sensory details that bring the violent scene to life. The character of Conner is intriguing, balancing his role as a temporal agent with personal attachments, especially to his companion Knut, whose death adds emotional depth to the plot. The tension between the historical event and Conner's role in maintaining the timeline is compelling, particularly with the introduction of the mysterious Deviation.

However, the story could benefit from further clarity and pacing. While the setting and character motivations are well-established, the flow of events feels occasionally rushed, especially in the transition from Conner’s initial relief to the sudden realization of the Deviation. The relationship between Conner and Knut, though emotionally charged, is somewhat underdeveloped, which makes the impact of Knut's death less potent than it could be. Additionally, while the time-travel mechanics are introduced, the narrative could benefit from more explanation or grounding in how Conner's actions might affect the timeline beyond immediate observations. The ending builds anticipation for future revelations, but it leaves some questions unanswered, which may either intrigue or frustrate readers, depending on their preference for closure.
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