Body of a Horse, Heart of a Man
Viewing comments for Chapter 9 "A Place of Wonder"A modern twist on Greek Mythology.
15 total reviews
Comment from rspoet
Hello Rhonda,
Anther excellent chapter developing Dianthe's character and her slow growth to confidence. Perhaps she should learn the trick of the illusionist, to not be seen whenever one desires.
If our new President gets his way, we'll soon have mailhacks in the US. Ah for the good old days when a letter in the mailbox would brighten one's day.
Your story has many layers that one could consider: being different, the search for happiness, peace, and more.
Of course, it all began from the pettiness of Zeus turning Atrius into a centaur.
Your last lines are prophetic as she eventually does attain what she's been looking for.
Well done.
Best wishes to all.
Have a wonderful, peaceful, joy-filled holiday.
Robert
reply by the author on 18-Dec-2024
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Hello Rhonda,
Anther excellent chapter developing Dianthe's character and her slow growth to confidence. Perhaps she should learn the trick of the illusionist, to not be seen whenever one desires.
If our new President gets his way, we'll soon have mailhacks in the US. Ah for the good old days when a letter in the mailbox would brighten one's day.
Your story has many layers that one could consider: being different, the search for happiness, peace, and more.
Of course, it all began from the pettiness of Zeus turning Atrius into a centaur.
Your last lines are prophetic as she eventually does attain what she's been looking for.
Well done.
Best wishes to all.
Have a wonderful, peaceful, joy-filled holiday.
Robert
Comment Written 18-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 18-Dec-2024
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Hehe,
Thank you for the lovely six star review, Robert. You are one of the only ones that remembers she does get him in the end, lol. It won't come easy, though. He's rather comfortable being a Centaur, but she is a sweetheart who will have to overcome her weak, spoiled nature.
Funny about the mailhacks coming back.
I agree on the value of getting cards and letters in the mail.
You definitely picked out the layers of the story. The search for true love shows up as well, but that one is a bit obvious.
Take care, and Merry Christmas,
Rhonda
Comment from Carol Hillebrenner
This is such a wonderful time for Diantha. She has never felt so happy in her old life as she does with Atrius, who is so impressive as he shows her one of his skills. I suspect she will never see a reason to leave her new life in Concorde Valley. I would like to have gone with her as you have created such a wonderful place for your people. But then I would have to come home to reality.
reply by the author on 17-Dec-2024
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This is such a wonderful time for Diantha. She has never felt so happy in her old life as she does with Atrius, who is so impressive as he shows her one of his skills. I suspect she will never see a reason to leave her new life in Concorde Valley. I would like to have gone with her as you have created such a wonderful place for your people. But then I would have to come home to reality.
Comment Written 16-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 17-Dec-2024
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Hi Carol,
Thank you so much for the six stars, my friend!!
Yes, fantasy worlds can be so inviting to visit. Of course, things will get a bit dicey for them pretty quickly, but still, it's a great escape place for the mind.
Hugs,
Rhonda
Comment from lyenochka
He does seem more than anyone's dream guy. And they are both in the profession of healing. I think it's clear that Diantha will stay in Concord Valley - even before she opens her eyes.
musical laugh that ticked Diantha's soul. (Did you mean "tickled?")
reply by the author on 17-Dec-2024
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He does seem more than anyone's dream guy. And they are both in the profession of healing. I think it's clear that Diantha will stay in Concord Valley - even before she opens her eyes.
musical laugh that ticked Diantha's soul. (Did you mean "tickled?")
Comment Written 16-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 17-Dec-2024
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Hehe, yeah, I'm not sure I would leave either. Still, she's got a lot of growing to do, and a huge battle, but that's for another day.
Hugs,
Rhonda
Comment from Ulla
Hi Rhonda, and for sharing another great chapter to your.book. it must be so frustrating to fall for a person you can't really get to in the sense that she wants to. But maybe there is a way? We'll see.
How is your husband, Wayne? I'm often thinking about you. Hugs, Ulla xx
reply by the author on 17-Dec-2024
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Hi Rhonda, and for sharing another great chapter to your.book. it must be so frustrating to fall for a person you can't really get to in the sense that she wants to. But maybe there is a way? We'll see.
How is your husband, Wayne? I'm often thinking about you. Hugs, Ulla xx
Comment Written 16-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 17-Dec-2024
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Hi Ulla,
Thank you so much for the lovely six stars!!!
Unfortunately, there are some we fall for that we just can't get. But, where there's a will...
Wayne has made almost a full recovery. It's been almost 2 months, which puts him in the window of the 3 month fast recovery stage.
He's even been driving us around. He usually gets headaches afterwards and sleeps a long time, but I'm not going to have to quit my job as he's come such a long way!!
Thanks for thinking about us.
Hugs,
Rhonda
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Oh that is really good news. I'm so glad for all of you. It's great you can keep on working. Thanks a lot for the updates. Xxx
Comment from nomi338
How frustrating it must be to find yourself attracted to someone it is almost impossible to be with. In a real sense, I have had those feelings before. I would imagine every star struck fan has no doubt had similar feelings for some unattainable entertainer, superstar athlete, or attractive model/actor. Awesome next chapter. I eagerly await the next episode.
reply by the author on 16-Dec-2024
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How frustrating it must be to find yourself attracted to someone it is almost impossible to be with. In a real sense, I have had those feelings before. I would imagine every star struck fan has no doubt had similar feelings for some unattainable entertainer, superstar athlete, or attractive model/actor. Awesome next chapter. I eagerly await the next episode.
Comment Written 16-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 16-Dec-2024
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Hi Nolan,
Thanks for the six stars and for the comments. I agree on the unattainable love. She will find she's not the only one in love with the superstar king. However, does he love them back? Only great love finds a way.
Take care my friend,
Rhonda
Comment from Jacob1395
I love how you describe the scene around Diantha, Rhonda, it really makes me feel as though I'm there as part of the action. Another excellent chapter. I really enjoyed reading it.
reply by the author on 16-Dec-2024
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I love how you describe the scene around Diantha, Rhonda, it really makes me feel as though I'm there as part of the action. Another excellent chapter. I really enjoyed reading it.
Comment Written 16-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 16-Dec-2024
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Thank you so much, Jacob. I'm glad you liked the chapter and that you are staying with the story.
Take care,
Rhonda
Comment from Debi Pick Marquette
I am so in love with this story but I have all these wishes that I hope will happen. I am such a romantic at heart. I love how he treats her and I can feel her not wanting to leave him when they get to this town. The poor thing just wants to stay with him and I don't blame her. He really is a hunk. LOL.. hahaha. Sorry, does that make me a cougar? No, I am not thinking like that. Trying to be funny actually.
I love this and am so happy you are writing it again. I know she is in love with him but not his centaur body. Yet, I can tell she is comfortable with it.
Thanks again and I can't wait to see what happens next week. Did I mention I love this story?!?! Haha! Love, Debi
reply by the author on 16-Dec-2024
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I am so in love with this story but I have all these wishes that I hope will happen. I am such a romantic at heart. I love how he treats her and I can feel her not wanting to leave him when they get to this town. The poor thing just wants to stay with him and I don't blame her. He really is a hunk. LOL.. hahaha. Sorry, does that make me a cougar? No, I am not thinking like that. Trying to be funny actually.
I love this and am so happy you are writing it again. I know she is in love with him but not his centaur body. Yet, I can tell she is comfortable with it.
Thanks again and I can't wait to see what happens next week. Did I mention I love this story?!?! Haha! Love, Debi
Comment Written 16-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 16-Dec-2024
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No way you're a cougar, Debi. Remember, he's centuries old. He may look youngish, but he's hundreds of years old. Wish I could hold up that well, lol!
I'm enjoying writing the fantasy stories again. It does help to get away mentally. Plus, Wayne is doing so much better it gives me a chance to write.
Much love and thank you so very much for the six stars!!!!
Rhonda
Comment from Debbie D'Arcy
Another great chapter, Rhonda, and I must confess to feeling genuinely excited as they approach that old, familiar Concorde Valley:) As ever, the dialogue is excellent and helps build these characters. We can appreciate Diantha's trepidation and insecurity. In addition, her growing affection for Atrius (I mean, who could blame her?:)) I also find it clever the way you describe the lack of technology, thus reinforcing the mythology of the story and the unknown, foreign and quite daunting realm into which Diantha has been introduced. Well done, Rhonda! Take care Debbie xos
"I'd really like to learn more" (delete redundant 'would')
I wondered if it should be "that tick(l)ed Diantha's soul"
reply by the author on 16-Dec-2024
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Another great chapter, Rhonda, and I must confess to feeling genuinely excited as they approach that old, familiar Concorde Valley:) As ever, the dialogue is excellent and helps build these characters. We can appreciate Diantha's trepidation and insecurity. In addition, her growing affection for Atrius (I mean, who could blame her?:)) I also find it clever the way you describe the lack of technology, thus reinforcing the mythology of the story and the unknown, foreign and quite daunting realm into which Diantha has been introduced. Well done, Rhonda! Take care Debbie xos
"I'd really like to learn more" (delete redundant 'would')
I wondered if it should be "that tick(l)ed Diantha's soul"
Comment Written 15-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 16-Dec-2024
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Hi Debbie,
Thank you so much for the lovely six stars, my friend!
Thank you, as well, for looking for the details. I've made the corrections you suggested, and a few more that popped up when I was rereading. They often seem infinite, lol.
Thank you for your comments. Yes, Concorde Valley's re-emergence stirs my heart, too. We'll learn a little more about Mary in this story.
Enjoy your holidays,
Hugs,
Rhonda
Comment from Pam (respa)
I'm glad you liked the centaur. He looks great! An excellent chapter that continues the relationship between Atrius and Diantha. They seem to get along very well. You do a good job with the nature imagery. Diantha is taken with it all and thinks about what everything might be saying. It also leaves her with the question of whether or not she wants to leave this place. As the story progresses, you can tell she is hesitant and wonders if she will be happy or if she will fit it, etc. Atrius makes a good point about being a Hidden Valley.
I like their discussion about what work she will be able to find and Atrius explains about hospitals there, and that she could probably continue her education. I think she liked the idea that he could also teach her.
I also like what Atrius says about giving the Valley a chance, and that she needs time to heal.
The concluding sections are also very good, especially Atrius' comment about people seeing what they want to see. A very good question at the end. I will be interested to see where you take this. I think Diantha and Atrius are an excellent match! Very well done, my friend.
reply by the author on 16-Dec-2024
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I'm glad you liked the centaur. He looks great! An excellent chapter that continues the relationship between Atrius and Diantha. They seem to get along very well. You do a good job with the nature imagery. Diantha is taken with it all and thinks about what everything might be saying. It also leaves her with the question of whether or not she wants to leave this place. As the story progresses, you can tell she is hesitant and wonders if she will be happy or if she will fit it, etc. Atrius makes a good point about being a Hidden Valley.
I like their discussion about what work she will be able to find and Atrius explains about hospitals there, and that she could probably continue her education. I think she liked the idea that he could also teach her.
I also like what Atrius says about giving the Valley a chance, and that she needs time to heal.
The concluding sections are also very good, especially Atrius' comment about people seeing what they want to see. A very good question at the end. I will be interested to see where you take this. I think Diantha and Atrius are an excellent match! Very well done, my friend.
Comment Written 15-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 16-Dec-2024
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Hi Pam,
Thank you so much for the six stars!! And, for the detailed and comprehensive review!!
You were able to pick up on the undertones of the story. No foreshadowing yet, lol. There will be some reflection later with Hades... much later.
Yes, Diantha is still showing her hesitant and weak character as she doubts herself. I think she'll find purpose and strength along the way. I'm afraid the healing may be on the fly, though, as she won't have long before the action begins.
Diantha and Atrius are a great match, but reality will start to set in as she leaves his company.
Thanks again, and especially for the Centaur. I have a feeling that picture is going to appear a few more times!!!!
Take care,
Rhonda
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You are very welcome and deserving of the stars and review, as well as the link to the centaur. It looked good with your story. I am enjoying the story very much. Thanks for sharing in your reply.
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Yeah, that Centaur is perfect!! Thank you ever so much!
I'm glad the story is continuing to be entertaining. It's keeping my mind busy.
Take care,
Rhonda
Comment from royowen
Ah, the secret of not being seen in a crowd of people, thst is a special ability, and those who want to be seen will do almost anything to achieve it. It's funny about meeting the one who ticks most of the boxes, and is unattainable still. This is beautifully written, as always Rhonda! So where did you go all the time you weren't here? Well done, blessings Roy
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reply by the author on 15-Dec-2024
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Ah, the secret of not being seen in a crowd of people, thst is a special ability, and those who want to be seen will do almost anything to achieve it. It's funny about meeting the one who ticks most of the boxes, and is unattainable still. This is beautifully written, as always Rhonda! So where did you go all the time you weren't here? Well done, blessings Roy
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
Comment Written 15-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 15-Dec-2024
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Hi Roy,
You hit the nail on the head all the way around on this chapter!! You are so right about people who want to get noticed, find a way to do so. I like ticking the boxes and being unattainable. That pretty much defines Diantha's dilemma.
I've been super busy at school. I've only been able to be at work 1 day a week for taking care of Wayne. He's had so many doctor's appointments and therapy. Not being there with kids has made me work twice as hard at home making very detailed lessons, and grading remotely.
Then, I've been making Remembrance Pillows out of my mother-in-law's old gowns for family members. Busy little beaver!! Writing is therapeutic when I can do it. Reviewing falls between the cracks. Sorry about that!!
Take care,
Rhonda
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No, I don't mind, it's just that you were away previously fir awhile, no, I understand, you are one incredible woman Rhonda, your family ask so fortunate to have you, you remind me of the incredible woman I'm surrounded by, I appreciate you.
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Awww, you are so sweet! Wayne is doing so much better. He even drove us to church today. The doctor cleared him Friday, with the warning that if he doesn't feel quite right, don't drive. God is truly good!!
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So good Rhonda, God is so good