Nixie 🦊's (nixie9) Reviews

Review Requests: OFF

3,595 Public Reviews Given

3,634 Total Reviews Given

Review Style

Template most of the time, covering setting/plot/characters/conflict/resolution if applicable. For shorter works, I concentrate more on feelings evoked.

I'm good at...

Short story, chapter reviews and in-depth reviews.

Favorite Genres

Sci-fi, Romance, mystery, children's, comedy

Least Favorite Genres

Historical

Favorite Item Types

Short stories, novel chapters

Least Favorite Item Types

essay, editorial, non-fiction, somebody's homework assignment

I will not review...

XGC,

Items that are written in a small font with little or no spacing,

I am unable to review any pieces involving abuse of any kind to anyone. I like to keep my corner or the world happy, because I grew beyond my "challenges" of childhood and don't want to look back.

1

Credit this reviewer

#4808333

Review of Demon Child (1st Place)

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (4.0)

Greetings, BScholl I found your item while cruising through random reviewing.

Stacy’s 'mommy alarm' started ringing. Something was up, and she knew it wasn’t good.
This sentence describes every moment of my son's toddler years. I called him my wild child. The title "Demon Child" seems harsh to me.

Overall impression
The first sentence sets the mood (tense) and shouts reader beware. Stacy has a keen insight into Wesley from past experiences, and she's always on guard. Wesley's any mothers' nightmare. A mother of a child like this knows that Stacy's brief distraction spells doom. I like how this sentence neatly slots inside the narrative.

Consider using italics for the first part of the sentence.

That was her mistake, she told herself later.

Observations/oops
I have to release an observation before I begin the review. Why was there pepper in the car?

Also
The windows were all rolled down, but Stacy kept a leery eye on him.
Try as I might, this sentence makes no sense to me. How do rolled down windows match up with Stacy's leery eye?

Lasting impression
Despite my objections noted above, I ended up with a smile on my face. Cute story.
Congrats on the win. Maybe everyone else understood what I could not.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

This review is affiliated with The B.E.A.R. Fund , a community project that let's you earn exclusive merit badges just by reviewing!

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

2

Credit this reviewer

#4808125

Review of The Great Big Gray Catastrophe

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: ASR

| (4.5)

Greetings maggie Nixie here.
I found your item while cruising through random reviewing.

Overall impression
A fun read and a quirky little poem.

The title is fantastically appropriate. The unique title caught my eye. What happens is still a surprise, but consider not giving away the content by ending with (disappear).

I can imagine reading this story to my grandchildren, when they were younger. If a kid is learning colors, this story would also be helpful.

I had to laugh when the kid yelled (never). It brought to mind my mom's advice, never say never.

You made me laugh again in the 7th stanza. How you showed the kid's reaction was simple and descriptive. Beginning with

I had to leave the classroom...

Observations/oops
The poem could benefit from a once-over to catch minor blips like misplaced commas.

The colours are my friend!
friends

I thought about the words I 'd said,

I'd

Lasting impression
Your poem is uplifting, something we all need as the world turns and turns again, until no one knows what's right or wrong.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

This review is affiliated with The B.E.A.R. Fund , a community project that let's you earn exclusive merit badges just by reviewing!

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

3

Credit this reviewer

#4807959

Review of Readjusted

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with disABILITY WRITERS GROUP

Rated: E

| (4.5)

Salutations and Congratulations Sumojo

This review is a gift to you from "disABILITY WRITERS GROUP"

Overall Impression
"Readjusted" is a story which has only seven lines. However, it's one of those stories that reminds us to be concise and remember that less is more. The first sentence is an innuendo, a glimpse into the plot. As the story goes, each sentence builds on the other, giving us a broader picture. I can relate, so, Sue, you'll have to endure a short recollection.

Personal Connection
Freshman year in college, I was dating a guy on the guy's side of the dorm. We had just entered the restaurant, when close on my date's heels was the guy's roommate. Buzz kill. Except the roomie pulled out my chair and charmed me as we ate our pizza. The guy I was dating bored me and ignored me. The roommate was so incredibly sweet, that, after college, we married.

Watch out for those men who spoon themselves into your life. The ones who make you smile every day. My ex is (was) a psychopath who terrorized in subtle ways, until he nearly broke me. I didn't want a divorce. Was I intentionally blind or naive? A bit of both. On top of everything else, years and years of being mentally tortured, I learned he was a drug dealer. 14 years later, I finally divorced him.

The formatting was a bit off. A paragraph after the first few sentences seems appropriate. Was this written in a different program and then c/p over here? That will mess with formatting. Or delete that line break and keep all the sentences together.

(Was) isn't a passive verb. But the many times it was presented seemed redundant. Let me take a wild guess here. Was "Readjustment" written for a specific contest?

Closing remarks
Should the third sentence be the first, introducing the main character, or was it intentionally written to be obscure? The title and brief description fit the story without spoiling the surprise. The title was exceptionally astute and enticing. Very nicely done.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

This review is affiliated with The B.E.A.R. Fund , a community project that let's you earn exclusive merit badges just by reviewing!

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

4

Credit this reviewer

#4807848

Review of Chapter One

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with disABILITY WRITERS GROUP

Rated: E | N/A (Review only item.)

Salutations and Congratulations Dan Hiestand

This review is a gift to you from "disABILITY WRITERS GROUP"

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

The draw
I liked the title and brief description. There's a soft spot in my heart for outriders, (which my eyes at first saw as outliers) or anyone living on the edge, doing jobs that no one spoke of.

Overall Impression
Due to the small font, I nearly passed on reviewing this chapter. But there was enough white space, easing eye-strain.

I admired the presentation, with the dividers so captivating, sectioning chunks of story from one another. One may have questioned why the story began 10 years later, as I did. That small font...words ran together, making it easy to miss something important...why the story began 10 years later.

There is so much material here to dwell upon, it's almost too much to absorb. And there's so much telling...

A suggestion. The second part of the story is far more interesting than the first, which left me unimpressed.

Stand-outs
What an amazing this sentence would have been as an opening scene.
The frozen night sky was on fire, blistering with the terrible beauty of magical warfare and splashing the plain in colors no one living had witnessed before.

Closing remarks
I did click on the second chapter, hoping for some clarity. But by then, my eyes were burning. Seeing that this was written years ago, I doubt another review would be of interest to you.

At any rate, there are nuggets of gold easily missed, too many important details running together. And characters unclear as to appearance and importance. I couldn't appreciate the pecking order of who was in charge. Mostly, I see potential.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

This review is affiliated with The B.E.A.R. Fund , a community project that let's you earn exclusive merit badges just by reviewing!

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

5

Credit this reviewer

#4807613

Review of Bella

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (4.5)

Salutations and Congratulations Gratefully IE

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

I found something else to review in your portfolio. The title "Bella" was the name for my son's service dog. She helped him deal with his PTSD, so I was naturally drawn to the story.

Overall Impression
"Bella" is a tail (purposely spelled that way. ha ha.) of relationships building between a dog, a puppy, and a married couple. Natasha was my favorite character, although I felt a close second connection to Bella, who knew the puppy was the right choice for her.

Animal shelters break my heart—all those dogs barking and hoping for a home. And once again, we 'hear' from Bella, who mourns the situation.

The descriptions of everything, and Natasha's narration, kept me smack-dab in the scene.

Fantastic presentation with an enlarged font and perfect amounts of white space.

Questions
Carhartts (?)
I had no idea what Carhartts were, so I googled it. The clothing they make seemed suited to cold weather. But what do I know? Consider a footnote or a drop down menu to explain the term for dummies like me. I bet it's a regional term.

Bella grumbles but stays seated, shifting her weight from one front paw to the other.
I can't picture this. Shouldn't she be standing up? Am I missing something?

Closing remarks
Are readers and reviewers ready for a special story to read? Go no farther. You've found the ideal place right here.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Reviewing signature for the B.E.A.R. Fund.

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

6

Credit this reviewer

#4807208

Review of Live it, love it & enjoy it

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with disABILITY WRITERS GROUP

Rated: E

| (4.0)

Salutations and Congratulations {huser:

This review is a gift to you from "disABILITY WRITERS GROUP"

Overall Impression
The optimism expressed here sheds a new light on what life hands us. But it's not true for me. Every morning when I wake, anxiety, with a double x, floods my brain. If that means I'm alive, well, that doesn't mean I'm optimistic and grateful for my life. It means Oh no. Not another day to go wrong.
I'm alive but, due to circumstances beyond my control, I'm not living.

Clothes that no longer fit make me feel guilty that I'm not exercising. The mess around me doesn't mean I had friends at my house. I have no friends.

Questions
Has the world started a new trend? Do we now abbreviate you to u? or "you are' to u r? I'd imagine seeing that in a social media post, but not here, where we're all striving to become better writers.

The fact is that there is no chance of another life.!
Choose either a period or an exclamation mark, but not both.

You will never get out of it alive........
Ellipses are restricted to three dots.

For what it's worth...
The title "Live it, Love it, and Enjoy it." needs correction, as indicated here.

Closing remarks
Nothing I've written is meant to disparage your work. I appreciate the take on finding joy and optimism that overturned depression and feeling miserable.
It's my choice to make a difference for myself. I am responsible for my feelings.

Thank you for your wise words that will inspire people.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

7

Credit this reviewer

#4807007

Review of The Bluebird Hotel

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (4.0)

Salutations and Congratulations amy-Finally writing a novel.

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Overall Impression
Why did I choose to read "The Bluebird Hotel"? I liked the title.

My mind came alive as I read the first descriptive paragraph. Such vividness in the words placed me there. As the plot progressed, more and more of the hotel was revealed. I wasn't overly alarmed, merely curious and wishing it were me seeing and experiencing the interstices of the hotel.

My alarm went off when the receptionist was described. What was truly in her smile was truly a warning.

Let's talk it out ▼

Closing remarks
The final paragraph was a let down, going out with a sigh, something of little interest to the reader. In the beginning there was more showing that created a feeling of intimacy between the reader and the words.

I would have enjoyed staying in the hotel to draw my own conclusions. It sounds inviting to me. Keep writing!

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

8

Credit this reviewer

#4806812

Review of Nature's Band

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (4.5)

Salutations and Congratulations D.L. Robinson

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Overall Impression
"Nature's Band" is an expressive and unique prose written to delight the reader. I find nature soothing but have never thought about the concept of the sounds being a band. Absolutely beautiful, full of sensory experiences.

The italicized words add an elegant flaunt to the overall appearance. The one problem is the small font. If I read some of my older pieces, the font has not been increased, and maybe that's what happened here.

Anyway, as a demonstration of sorts, at first glance I read
Babies' eyes at birth. and saw : Barbie's eyes at birth.
I knew that made no sense, so I squinted more, until I saw (babies).

Stand-outs
I liked the last stanza for I long to be in a place where no other stands. People annoy me. My favorite 'nature vision' is of mountains and lakes. My dream world left behind when I had to move.

Here, the frogs sing in chorus. Small ones begin, and one by one, the others join, until the bullfrog croaks. Silence hangs for a bit before the chorus begins again.

I miss the crickets' song.

Closing remarks
Thank you for sharing your work and changing my mood from blah to awe.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

9

Credit this reviewer

#4806607

Review of Winter in Hamburg

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: ASR

| (5.0)

Salutations and Congratulations Gratefully IE

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Overall Impression
Well, after reading the last few lines, my eyes are burning with held-back tears.

"Winter in Hamburg" takes the reader along with mom and daughter in this poignant story. The characters are equally endearing. I can't choose a favorite. Each one needs the other to show the reader what's being observed. Peppered with emotions, both sad and happy, we're not only traveling with the words, we're riding a roller-coaster of emotions.

I am proud of the daughter, meaning yourself?, for fulfilling her mother's wish. I've always wanted to visit Germany, and with a native speaker in tow, I would be able to avoid all the tourist shops, and instead, visit a more intimate experience.

Having googled Hamburg, the pictures looked far more commercialized than I expected. Americanism is spreading, unfortunately.

The words written in German are translated in the foot notes. I know a bit of the language, and surprised myself because I understood most of them (or their intent).

The font size and generous spacing make this an easy read for everyone, and also for those of us who are old(er).

Stand-outs
I laugh at her excitement over a good cup of coffee, but that’s Mom for you.

Closing remarks
I want to thank you for the marvelous word journey because I'll never see Germany for myself. I have a feeling you'll win a Quill for this beautiful story.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

10

Credit this reviewer

#4806411

Review of Paige and Donnie

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (4.0)

Salutations and Congratulations tracker

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Overall Impression
"Paige and Donnie" promised to deliver a powerful tale. The vagueness gave hope. It's a sad story that desperately needs dialogue. Rather than telling a story, the reader likes to experience the story. They want to feel as Paige felt.

Donnie is a secondary character who is also sadly lacking. Who was he? What did either character look like. Show us how the couple interacted.

The first paragraph is a non-starter. The sequence makes no sense, and there's nothing exciting going on. Nothing to urge the reader to continue. All writers have is the opportunity to snag the readers attention in the first sentence or paragraph.

Oops
Fourth

Noone was around > No one

Fifth

All punctuation inside quotation marks.

“You are coming with me, Paige”, >
“You are coming with me, Paige,"

and think about the trouble you caused”.
and think about the trouble you caused."

Closing remarks
You have a valiant try here. Going forward, if my ideas work for you, try and try again. It's our oops-es that make us better writers.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

11

Credit this reviewer

#4806195

Review of Rain's Healing Sound

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E | N/A (Review only item.)

Salutations and Congratulations turtlemoon-dohi

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Overall Impression
"Rain's Healing Sound" is a beautiful and informative poem. I hope it's okay to write informally how much Native Americans fascinate me.

The cover art is poignant and spiritually moving. I wonder what this poem would look like if the full image was at the top. I'll admit it's a wondrous surprise to discover the image at the end of the poem.

As a kid, we lived in the Mohawk Valley, in NYS. Spooky occurrences happened all the time. All four of my siblings, and even my parents, experienced supernatural times that couldn't be explained. My memory is sketchy, but I think my dad later discovered that our house was built on the Mohawks grave. To this day, I feel awful about that.

Stand-outs
This sentence makes so much more sense to me, sidestepping some traditional beliefs.

Traditional drummers sing love notes to Great Mystery.
Echoes of trilling travel to the skies, as a plea for life's harmony.

Closing remarks
I find the rain to be healing. I don't even carry an umbrella. Rain is like a gift for me. Thanks to you for expressing my thoughts so movingly.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

12

Credit this reviewer

#4806029

Review of a gentle collision

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with disABILITY WRITERS GROUP

Rated: E

| (4.5)

Salutations and Congratulations TheNoMonster

This review is a gift to you from "disABILITY WRITERS GROUP"

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Overall Impression
"A gentle Collision" may be a small story, but it packs a punch. Little moments do matter, even if they create a small ripple. You chose a real live experience to write about, and the intimacy was cranked up a notch.

The story is a bit on the sad side, but that's okay. If a person thinks about it, the truth is in the words. Some readers may not react positively. Also okay. To each his own.

Golden retrievers are the sweetest of dogs. We had one when I was a kid, and we had one when my kids were kids. Her passing left a hole. (cancer.)

Suggestions
In the opening paragraph of this review, notice the capitalization of all the words in the title.

The way this sentence was written is a little challenging to improve. The punctuation is outside the quotation marks.

I looked back at the girl and she was sitting on the swing next to a somewhat older boy, her brother?, and she had a very serious look on her face.

Here is one possibility.

I looked back at the girl, and she was sitting on the swing next to a somewhat older boy. Her brother? She had a (delete very) serious look on her face.

That sentence has some implications. I wonder why her expression turned serious?

Stand-outs
The ripple of small joy, for both the girl and the dog, was gone. And likely forgotten. But so was my funk.

Closing remarks
These little moments change many things. A small gesture between your dog and the child uplifted you from your funk. Keep writing.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

13

Credit this reviewer

#4805885

Review of The vampire jellyfish

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: ASR

| (3.5)

Salutations and Congratulations {huser:

This review is a gift to you from "disABILITY WRITERS GROUP"

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Overall Impression

wow! What potential "The Vampire Jellyfish" has with some changes that I'll demonstrate. Hopefully, they'll help.

The jellyfish is a frightening creature to be avoided. That much is clear. I felt (as I always do) for the evil monster in a story. There's no mention of anyone trying to kill it, I could only experience the plot through the words.

The reader wants character reactions and conflict. You have an abundance of material here to build on. Rather than telling the reader about the jellyfish, why not show some interaction? Show it steal and devour a villager. That danger is listed, but what a shame that we don't see through a character's eyes.

Rather than telling us about it lurking near fishing boats, this can be translated into a terrifying event. What if a fisherman fell overboard and the jellyfish ate it, leaving a red mist in the water? No need to be overly graphic, show us the fellow fishermen screaming and trying to save their friend? Is there no hope?

Closing remarks
Where an you go from here? Writers have a specific job. Show, not tell. Bring your reader into the story. Make them care about something. Add in some dialogue.

Don't be discouraged. Try again. That's how we learn.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

14

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4805696

Review of Running Out of Cats

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with Steph Bee's Bee Hive

Rated: E

| (4.0)

Greetings Kyle Curcio. Nixie here with a gift for you.

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Overall Impression
My first reaction to "Running Out of Cats" was.. what? Killing a fairy? And from there on the thought stuck in my brain. Especially the sound of crunch.

Aside from that, the plot flowed smoothly, each sentence adding more to the curious factor. The character's actions felt normal, as if I were watching the scene play out.

Character names help the reader connect to the story. Imagine the terror instilled by one name. "Khan." Gogmagogg conveyed nothing, other than fulfilling the nonsense genre.

The interaction and dialogue between the two characters was effective in demonstrating their close relationship. This was accomplished in a single sentence, where I felt the connection.

"Careful!" (c) Cautioned Gertrude, clasping her husband's shoulder..."

Suggestions ▼

Lasting Impression
Even though (stone) was a required word, it didn't feel forced. I'm ashamed to admit the conclusion surprised me. And then I had to go back and read it again to catch the full meaning of the story. Very clever.

Respectfully reviewed by,
Nixie

A review signature from the Bee Hive

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

15

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4805511

Review of Methamphetamine

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (4.5)

Greetings Crystal Rena . Nixie 🦊 here.
I found your item while cruising through random reviewing.

Overall impression
I've never known anyone with a drug addiction, much less a recovery. Congrats. It's important for people like me to be aware of this problem first hand, rather than seeing the addiction portrayed in movies. You were brave to have written "Methamphetamine."

In my mind, labeling the drug as a 'she' gives power and identity. I do understand why you did so, as (Crystal) completes the narration. Since the recovery has been completed, my question is a moot point. I'm asking for myself.

This prose contrasts sharply with your bio. This piece must have been written after you conquered the beast.

Did you have too many words in the brief description to add the word (me) after killing? I'm shocked if he actually tried to physically murder you.

Observations
What do you think about breaking the lines up a bit, maybe four lines, or, if you like the suggestion, whatever works for you. I'm mentioning this because right now the work appears as a block of single text. I think your words would be more effective and powerful if separated. But that's just me. One person with an opinion.

Lasting impression
The prose is clearly understood and paints a sad story, contrasted by a winning conclusion. I've heard that even after a person triumphs, the draw for the drug is maintained, and the person must stay in a recovery group.

My comments may seem overly personal, so pardon me. No offense was intended. No judgement. Overly curious, I suppose.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

16

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4805366

Review of Good and Bad

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: 18+

| (4.5)

Greetings Beholden. Nixie here with a gift for you.

A SuperPower Reviewers Choice review!

Overall Impression
The MC's limitations, through no fault of his own, are painstakingly revealed while reading "The Good and Bad." Life is like that, we cannot have one without the other, but I wouldn't call it luck, although it works for the story.

Who ever thought there was an upside to Covid 19, despite the danger. At least the virus gave him some respite, however unlikely. It was more of an observation because he had zero chance for exposure.

Close connections
This events in the story (except for the conclusion) cast a spotlight on my life. Thank goodness for Instacart. The MC is correct. What's the point of going out when there's nowhere to go?

Isolation brings its various repercussions. It's not healthy for a person to have no one to actually touch them.

I felt the MC's desperation shown here. Not only is he limited by his age, he's restricted by a physical disability.

In the third paragraph the POV switches from third person to second by using (you) rather than (he). It almost fits inside the plot, but it diverted my attention.

I found this sentence the most poignant moment.
His hand fell away from the keyboard.

Closing remarks
What a disturbing way to end a man's life. He won't have a swift death, he'll be bearing agony until the end.

You penned a familiar story for any reader past a certain age. I wish the story hadn't had a profound effect on me. I've always admired your work and the quality of your reviews. Keep writing.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

17

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4805322

Review of Love Without Borders

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: 13+

| (5.0)

Greetings Jeff Nixie here with a gift for you.

A SuperPower Reviewers Choice review!

Overall Impression
Way to break a woman's heart, Jeff. While reading "Love without Borders" we learn of Lena's conflicts, both internal and external. This is something often not seen in stories. The complete telling of the story was the ultimate choice here. Although we're always reminded 'show, don't tell' this story would not have been as strong applying that 'rule.'

We see the story through Lena's eyes. Her narration clearly shows who Wendell is. And we have no reason to doubt Lena—she doesn't seem like an unreliable character.

No surprise though, that Wendell had to look like a model. At least Lena wasn't shown as the 'perfect girl next door.' Imperfection on perfection is stunning. Why am I wishing Wendell had some physical flaw? Realism? But that isn't what readers want. Through escapism, they want to fall in love with the perfect guy.

The big question for the reader? Would Lena follow her heart, as they say, or dive in and trust the unknown.

Stand-outs
With all the buildup and hopes harbored by the reader, the conclusion was, all at the same time, satisfying, tragic, and realistic.

Closing remarks
I wonder if this story would have an effect on a male reader? Thanks for the read, Jeff. Your story was packed full of uncertainties that kept me engaged.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

18

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4805303

Review of Lisa's Discovery

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: 13+

| (4.5)

Hi Purple Catching Up. Nixie here bearing a gift for you.

A SuperPower Reviewers Choice review!

'

Overall Impression
While reading "Lisa's Discovery" we are tied to Lisa, wondering what it causing the juxtaposition of smells. One so putrid seems tragic, considering the lovely meal being described. There is no other way to go, we must follow Lisa to her discovery.

This is excellent work that fulfills the contest's requirements. I'd have been stymied.

Stand-outs
I won't spoil the conclusion, but the appearance of the (other) character's actions and explanations made me laugh.

Considerations
Let's see if I can describe this discrepancy concisely. It only requires changing one word. In the first paragraph, Lisa slams the window shut.
In

two > It made its way inside the house and she closed the window too late.
Since she's already closed the window, you can change (and she closed) to (she had closed) to avoid the pitfall. At least that's how I see it.

Her flowers stood tall and colorful, Tulips in every color flirting with the sun's warmth.
This sounds repetitious. You're a talented writer who brings the reader into the story. You know how to show not tell. So, I'm thinking, in either of the sentences, you can mention specific colours.

Closing remarks
I'm not here to tear anything up. I made a few small suggestions for your consideration. Nothing took away from the plot.

In conclusion: The plot flows logically and vividly while the reader wonders, 'what is going on here?'

A story surely to delight any reader.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

19

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4805277

Review of The Dragon's Child

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: 13+

| (5.0)

Greetings 🌖 HuntersMoon. Nixie here with a gift for you.

A SuperPower Reviewers Choice review!

Overall Impression
For some reason, I find it extremely difficult to review your work. Maybe the perfection of your work subdues me. "The Dragon's Child" was a happy exception. When I read the title, I knew safety would be found in these words. Dragons are just flat-out cool, and I love kids.

Question > The parents accidentally killed their child and left her body in the woods. Did I read that correctly?

Stand-outs

She dreams of the lost wisdom tree -
where one day man will understand.
I doubt this will ever happen.

Closing remarks
I'm proud of myself for finally reviewing a poem of yours. I have something I would like to tell you. I had chills running up and down my body as I read this. Dragons and children. They get to me every time.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

20

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4805267

Review of Consume

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (5.0)

Hi Sasha Harding. Nixie here with a gift for you.

A SuperPower Reviewers Choice review!

Overall Impression
Starting with the foreboding first line, when I read "Consume" my heart hurt. I liked your poetic style and word choices. You're an eloquent writer, with many emotions to pour out. Lost relationships often pull us apart, leaving only pieces, where once we were a whole person.

In my past, relationships have ended on my terms, with a final 'get out' and 'goodbye.' Marriage is a bit trickier to dissolve, and honestly, I caution others about the pitfalls of divorce. My mind is wandering.

For one so young, you've only begun. You can place a safe bet on being devastated again, until we learn the types of persons to avoid. Mine are always 'bad boys' whom I believe there is a nice part inside that I can dig out and make them see their wondrous self. Trust me, it doesn't work. Ah! I'm off in my own mind once again.

Stand-outs
You linger in the static between thoughts...

Closing remarks
Your prose evoked memories and past hurts, which have been resolved. I'm my own person, and no one can take me apart, ever again.

Your brief description contained a word that summed up the entire prose.

Haunting.

I have not read such poignant and outstanding prose in months. Keep writing!

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Review Forum "

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

21

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4805229

Review of Lost youth

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (4.5)

Greetings Sumojo I'm here with a gift for you.

A SuperPower Reviewers Choice review!

Overall Impression
"Lost Youth" reminds me of just how much I avoid looking in the mirror. Growing older has no joy when the body shows the truth. This little 8 line poem demonstrated that dismay.

Why is it that men age better than women? Their wrinkles are forgiven. Women try mostly in vain to halt that normal process by falling for creams and such. I'm speaking from experience.

Remarks
I can understand why a comma seemed appropriate in the first sentence, due to the similarity of the words. I'm guessing that's why you chose to do that. But since 'blanched' is describing Blanch, no comma is necessary.

In the first stanza, the rhymes felt forced. I've written 8 line poems before, and sometimes I rush, which is why I stopped writing them.
"Lost Youth" seemed rushed.

The rhymes in the second stanza created a smooth reading experience.

Capitalize the (y) in the title

Is the mirror still not telling the truth? It reflects the truth > an older person.

Closing remarks
I'm almost sad that I read this. The Desiderata poem has a line that reads "Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth." No way. It's good advice since aging is inevitable, but I'm fighting every day, just the same. I say "Shatter all mirrors."

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

22

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4804569

Review of Trouble at the North Pole

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (5.0)

Salutations and Congratulations Gratefully IE

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Overall Impression
Stepping inside "Trouble at the North Pole" is akin to being in the workshop itself. This is a story where a reader can live in this cozy tale full of humour and creativity. The story itself lives on this virtual page. Partly, this connection arises from 1st person POV, an excellent choice for the story.

The reader will be delighted by the characters and the unique turn of genres.
Speidel brings fairness to all elves with his declaration of MEE. Hilarious. Equality for all elves, regardless of where they're working.

They will have no choice but to love 'Tiltina, one of the tiniest elves. She's unafraid to address Santa, earning even more respect from her co-workers.

On a personal note, I'm reminded of my past career. There was no romance involved, but somehow an understanding with any manager was guaranteed. When the 'big boss' went into one particular meeting, no one was allowed to interrupt him.

Of course, his wife called. Not knowing the importance of the call, everyone agreed that it was up to me to decide. I cracked open the door to the conference room and stood there until the boss and I made eye contact. He excused himself and walked over to talk to me. Yup, back in the day I really was something.

Stand-outs
I'm not sure why this line cracked me up over all the others.
“San! Cut it out! You’ll break the keyboard!”

Closing remarks
No wonder "Trouble at the North Pole" won at Writer's Cramp. Congratulations.

Respectfully reviewed by
Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

23

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4804219

Review of Fur Babies C~Notes - Cats

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (4.5)

Salutations and Congratulations Gaby Why am I not surprised to be here? " ~ Treasure Designs ~ Shop"

is a regular hangout for me, and now I see you have beautiful C-note shoppes as well.

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Emotional Connection
Not everyone loves cats, which I don't understand at all. These kitties stole my heart. My last cat 'died' in December 2023. She was mostly feral, and not very social. But we had our own 'thing' and got along just fine. I only spoke to her in
German. Since she's been gone, I haven't 'thought' in German or spoken it. How true the statement I always told her. "Without you I'd be lost." And I am.

My heart is hammering and my eyes misting; let me move on.

Stand-outs
The entire collection is beautiful, and I'm trying hard to pick a favorite. Considering my present state of mind, the obvious choice is 'missing you.'

I've always included a title for all my C-notes. Question, many of your kitties are titled Kitty # 3 and so on. I can't remember if the title shows up when sending a C-note. Maybe consider adding a title to those particular C-notes.

Closing remarks
Thank you for these amazing C-notes. Now I must remind myself "Nixie, do not stop by Gaby's shoppe and dawdle, again." My fascination stems from the relaxation I feel when perusing the images. And that is your gift to me.

Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

Image #2332475 over display limit. -?-

24

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4802993

Review of Calling Mom

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: E

| (5.0)

Salutations and Congratulations Fyn.

Twenty years spent here.
My wish for you is to receive 20 reviews from members.

HAPPY WDC ACCOUNT ANNIVERSARY FROM

"Anniversary Reviews"

Overall Impression
When I respond to a true piece of work, it's easiest for me to write a review about my response. Before I dive into that, here's a few thoughts.

I keenly felt your desperation/motivation. That voice in your head encouraging you, with growing intensity, to call your mom was in tempo with my curiosity as the lines and stanzas progressed to create a final calling, as it were.

Stand-outs
She's been gone twenty years and since yesterday.

That statement impacted me right to bone-level. Time is only a physical construct we plaster onto this world for organizational sake. Time has no meaning. My sister died in 1983, yet lives on in my memories, as does my dad.

Closing remarks
I believe people never die in the way society dictates. Not to say that remark is a truism for all. "Calling Mom" shows the reader our very existence from a different viewpoint that I agree with. My sister and dad pop into my head from time to time. Sometimes, to say hello, other times with a message.

A few weeks after my dad died—can I write this without crying—he appeared dressed in Marine uniform from WW2, asking What happened to me?

Your prose practically screams of your inclination. Maybe others who read this will remember there are different ways to call someone beyond the grave.

**All bio works are rated five stars.

Nixie
"WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group"

A Review from: "Positive Hearts Reviews Group"

This review is affiliated with The B.E.A.R. Fund (Old Version) , a community project that lets you earn exclusive merit badges just by reviewing!

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .

25

Only reviews from the past
14 days may be credited.

#4802697

Review of Team Ahimsa Blog Relay, Various Contests

for entry "The Load"

Review by Nixie 🦊

In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group

Rated: 18+

| (4.5)

Greetings, THANKFUL SONAL shall catch up! I am reviewing your item for the activity "I Write in 2025"

"The Load"

Overall impression
What a delightful way to begin my morning. "The Load" kept me off balance, wondering what was going on here. Mentioning the Buddha in the beginning allowed me to make one assumption—this must be a spiritual poem, but how could that answer the prompt? That line was a great example of misdirection.

Somewhere in my mind, I imagined this character straddling railroad tracks. So silly on my part. To be clear, the poem directly answered the prompt.

In my writing, I can pull off comedy when writing FF, but definitely not in a poem.

Observations/oops
I closed my eyes i relief (in) relief

In stanza five these words sounded like a forced rhyme.
rapid and slid

Lasting impression
The twist, or the revelation, in the last stanza created a complete picture. While I had been smiling at the hyperbole, the conclusion showed me who was acting and who was observing. Everything fell into place, and my upward curved lips turned into a grin. Of course the poem was about a child. Nice going and keep writing.

Respectfully reviewed by,
Nixie

Image #2325475 over display limit. -?-

This review is affiliated with The B.E.A.R. Fund (Old Version) , a community project that let's you earn exclusive merit badges just by reviewing!

My review has been submitted for consideration in "Good Deeds Get CASH!" .