Reviews from

A girl's dream

The ride of her life

25 total reviews 
Comment from Patty Mazzurco
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

This story vividly captures the excitement and peril of pursuing a long-held dream. The protagonist's journey from childhood fantasies of owning a horse to the thrilling yet terrifying experience of riding one is engaging and immersive. The emotional shift from the dream of riding to the reality of a near-disaster is gripping, and the ending, revealing the tragic fate of a friend, adds a profound layer of reflection on the fragility of life and dreams.

A notable strength of this story is its powerful depiction of the protagonist's internal struggle and determination. The detailed narrative brings the tension and exhilaration of the ride to life, making the reader feel the stakes as if they were there alongside the protagonist.

I do wonder if maybe the story could benefit from a bit more development in the transition between the initial excitement of riding and the eventual tragic news. Expanding on the protagonist's reflections or adding more context could deepen the emotional impact and provide a smoother narrative flow.

Overall, this piece is both moving and thought-provoking, drawing readers into the protagonist's experience and leaving a lasting impression.

 Comment Written 22-Jul-2024


reply by the author on 22-Jul-2024
    Thank you for this very thoughtful review, showing insight and pereptiveness. I did wonder about including more emotion, but thought that keeping it stark might be more powerful by allowing the reader to imagine how I felt and all the associated emotions, rather than spelling it out. But your words make me think about it again, so thank you.
    Wendy.
Comment from GoWiSt
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Wow, this was intense. Be careful what you wish for, I guess. Is this a true/real biographical story? Glad the speaker survived her riding ordeal. I've long fantasized about learning how to ride a horse, but the city-boy in me just doesn't give me the courage to venture it. I enjoyed the story--gripping and well written.

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 Comment Written 22-Jul-2024


reply by the author on 22-Jul-2024
    Yes, it is true, both for me and for Annette. I have only ridden a few times since then. Thank you very much for your thoughtful words. I appreciate your review.
    Wendy
Comment from Begin Again
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

How you managed to stay on the horse was a miracle in itself and your words put me on the edge of my seat too. And the devastation of losing a friend in a riding accident must have haunted you, knowing it could have been you. Your bravery and will to live was exemplary. It wasn't your day to be called home and God had a special plan for Annette.
Hugs, Carol

 Comment Written 22-Jul-2024


reply by the author on 22-Jul-2024
    You are right in every way.... Thank you for an amazing review, and especially for the sixth star as well. So generous and so lovely.
    Wendy
Comment from Mrs. KT
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Oh my goodness, Wendy!
You write with such clarity and steady emotion.
I was riveted to every paragraph, as I, too, loved riding horses as a young girl knowing that I would never personally own one.
What an incredible frightening experience.
Your concluding line hits the reader with controlled force, but how very sad...

Thank you for sharing!
Fondly,
diane

 Comment Written 22-Jul-2024


reply by the author on 22-Jul-2024
    Thank you very much, Diane. I appreciate it so much, along with the delight of the extra star. Yes, it was such a shock to learn of her death in a similar situation to my experience. Many thanks,
    Wendy
Comment from Tom Horonzy
Excellent
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Well, that was a scary ride for sure, and I am remindful of my last rise when a gal I dated asked if I knew how. I said absolutely with a false bravado, and feign well until that steed decided she was tired of me and took off like a horse from Snowy River Jim Craig rose trying to drag me off by running an inch from the rails that penned him. I decided soon after I wouldn't date her again.

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 Comment Written 22-Jul-2024


reply by the author on 22-Jul-2024
    Lol. Yes, probably a wise decision. Thanks so much for the kind review.
    Wendy