How about a thread for story and book reviews?

I had this idea over the weekend, as a temporary measure, given that the feedback system is still down. But, who knows? With proper feeding and watering, we could keep it on page one.

Serious, substantive, contructive reviews only, please. Criticism is fine, but please keep it constructive.

I will start off with the next post to the thread.

A.P.

 

Book Review - KATE, by ejls

Kate, by ejls

On rare occasions, in venues such as this, one encounters a story that is so carefully and effectively crafted that its story codes do it a disservice. Kate, by ejls, is listed as a romance, written by a woman, containing consensual sex. The story's sensitivity, plausibility, and emotive power speak for themselves. We do not have to be told that this story has been brought forth by a feminine sensibility - not when the words have us reaching for kleenex.

Then, there is the sex. Well, of course there is sex. (Look at where we are!) And yet, the sexual content, within its terse economy, successfully breaks the stereotypical progressions of both porn and so-called "smart erotica," and transcends to the level of romantic literature. The sex is neither the story's dominant preoccupation, nor an afterthought, plugged in to earn the requisite X rating. Instead, the sex is thoughtfully and beautifully worked into the fabric of the story. From the very first lines, the story gradually prepares us, and readies us, even as Kathleen overcomes her initial terror, and prepares herself, readies herself for a culmination that astonishes us with its force for the very reason that it is by no means assured. Kathleen's journey is fraught with crises, both her own flirtations with mortality, and the tribulations of her new friends. The progression, through a combination of both sensitivity and craft, effectively conveys all the complexity, pain, and joy of two people meeting and deriving collective joy from life.

As to craft, the story is beautifully written, with excellent timing, dead-on dialogue, excellent research and attention to detail (I won't spoil the plot, but when you read it you'll know what I mean), and gorgeous imagery from start to finish.

Give yourself an early Christmas gift. Read this story. Rating: 10:10.

(kiss)
A.P.

 

Your review of Kate, a story that I have now read 5 times, was thorough, definitive, concise, and absolutely correct. You have a wonderful command of the language. Thank you for sharing it with us. How about a review of "For the Love of Holly" by wantsomefun. I would write one but I could not do it justice.

 

Suggestions to Reviewers, Authors and Readers

Thanks to donb9033 for the second review! And because it is a review, and a fine one at that, it belongs here.

Now, some suggestions. Not rules (I know how titchy everyone can get about rules), but just guidelines that can keep this thread helpful for readers.

Reviewers

1. Criticism is fine, but keep it constructive.

2. No invective (see below for definition).

3. I suggest you follow the Golden Suggestion (suggest to others as you would suggest that they suggest unto you).

4. If you can link to the author and the piece (see the Kate review for an example), it is a nice courtesy to readers, so they can easily reach the story.

Authors

1. Chit-chat diminishes the usefulness of the thread. Please, no chatter - not even to thank reviewers.

2. No bumping, please. The way to bump this thread is to write a review. Authors, especially, should know this without having to be told. (Just a suggestion.)

3. Please don't review the author who has just reviewed you! (Faux-pas.) If you're going to write a review, spread the wealth.

Readers

Please don't contact authors or reviewers on this thread, not even to tell them you love their stuff. Reviews, only. Readers are encouraged to write reviews, too!!! To contact authors or reviewers, please PM them.

*Invective - The A word, the B word, the C word, the D word, the E word, the F- word, ahhh, fuck it. We're on a porn site, right? There's a swear for every letter in the language, and you know them all. This is not the place. Please be nice.

A.P.

 

Ok im going to have a go at this sorry if its not as well written as the OP...


The story is Canon by lubutt17 I cant link the story beause of this dumb 10 post thing but I will add it later once im there or you can search him by author on the story site.

Its 9 chapters long and a very touching tale. The author clearly states that in the beginning there is not much sex involved but it does get very hot towards the middle and the end. Its not your usual incestuos story but provides a unique twist that grasps the reader to continue right till the last chapter which leaves the reader to their imagination of whats next to come. I hope the author continues this series its superbly written and I have nothing bad to say about it really.

 

Well, if AP is not going to write a review of "For the Love of Holly" http://stories.xnxx.com/story/21289/For_the_Love_of_Holly, then I will take a shot at it. Forgive me my limitations on language.

For the Love of Holly, written by wantsomefun, is a seasonal companion piece to Kate by ejls. It is very well written with the characters defined and explained so well the reader feels he knows them. It is a story of love and sharing with our fellow man that is, to my knowledge, unsurpassed. Easily compares with any Christmas story I've ever read and, for romance and emotion, compares favorably with just about any story of whatever subject. I will not say it is the best story I've ever read (I'm 66 years old afterall), but it is a story that I will continue to re-read for probably years.

There is sex in the story, but it is a part of the story, not the reason for the story. Anyone wanting to get into the seasonal spirit - read it. Have a box of tissues handy.

 

Gotcha covered Kat -

http://stories.xnxx.com/profile171528/lubutt17

Rumor has it that Chapter 10 is underway.

 

I'm not cheating just to bump this thread back to the top - I have a review.

Anyone with the slightest trace of childhood wonder left in them (I'm very, very, very old and I do) really must read the thread by Daddycums entitled 'Backyard Princess' at https://forum.xnxx.com/showthread.php?t=114332. He has only posted chapter 1 of 5, but the beginning is totally enchanting.

Having something like this posted by one of my very favorite authors is really a thrill for me and waiting for the rest of the story is about like a 7 year old waiting for Christmas.

Try it, you'll like it (if there is that trace of childhood left in you).

 

Review - RED AND BLACK, by smcaaphd

Red and Black, by smcaaphd

This story's introduction and first paragraph, with its references to "alabaster skin... hewn from the finest marble" had me ranting at my computer with alarm and indignation, "No, God, no, not another rewrite of Edward and Bella! Burn me with fire, but not that!"

Being the glutton for punishment that I am, and being a morbid closet fan of Stephenie Meyer and her execrable writing style (as are we all, admit it), I did read on, and goodness gracious, was I ever rewarded.

This is neither a vampire story, nor a witch story, nor a ghost story. The lovers of Red and Black are spirits of aether and sighs, who have died a thousand deaths and kissed their respective tears through endless laments, in cyclic manifestations of their own creation. The exposition carries us magically through infinitely nested dreamstates that terminate and deposit David and Eleanor into yet other dreams in which their lives and love canter with a desynchronized rhythm, a syncopated cadence that requires them to repeatedly lose and rediscover each other.

The writing itself is lush and effortlessly poetical. It is easier to show, with an example, than to describe what I mean. Bad writers would tell us that "It was raining." Good writers would throw in the requisite adverb, to wit, "It was raining heavily." smcaaphd adroitly eschews conjugations of the verb, "to be," and gives us rain that we can feel from our hair to our waterlogged shoes:

The heat wave that had held the city in its grasp had ended with the clouds, heavy with rain, loosing their cargo on the streets below....Water hit the hard surface and bounced back up, sending up showers of liquid in reverse.
​

Now that, ladies and gentlemen, is rain.

The imagery makes deft use of poetical conceits, using devices such as synesthesia and anthropomorphism to bring the mundane to life: "Light tumbled in through the window, hitting the heavy carpet with an almost audible crash." For this writer, it is clearly not enough to simply inform us that it is morning, and we, the readers are rewarded with the proverbial embarrassment of riches.

If I do have one small quibble with this story, it would be that, while the episodes of living and dying are bound by the deep theme of cyclical incarnation, the segues between episodes are somewhat handicapped by a lack of topical cohesion. To give specifics of what I mean by this would be to reveal too much of the story, which would be a shame, because I highly recommend it. How to say it? To put it plainly for readers who do not regularly read poetry, this story might come across as a bit choppy in its delivery. I should stress that it is not choppy; nevertheless, perception is tantamount to reality, and that is how some will perceive it.

Readers: read it for the romance. This story is a gothic/romantic masterpiece. Stop thinking, and just let it flow. Authors: read this story for the gorgeousness of the lines. No matter how good you think you are, you will come away from this one feeling humbled. Rating: 10:10.

(kiss)
A.P.

 

Review - Morning by sullygom

I have never reviewed anything, but am moved to do so by this piece. In his debut, sullygom presented Morning.

http://stories.xnxx.com/story/21512/Morning

Admittedly written sometime ago, and recently updated, this was one of the finest lovemaking scenes I've read. I say that, because the entire piece was based on this one scene. Normally, I would find immediate sex in a written piece, somewhat offensive, but not here. This was lovemaking at its finest.

Sullygom's attention to detail and description was beautiful, from her long tanned leg, to the boyish look on his face. I could feel the warmth in their bed, as they woke that morning. I could feel the joy they experienced by pleasing each other.

What surprised me about this story, was the lack of dialogue. Normally, that's a turn-off for me, but not here. Dialogue would almost have been inappropriate. Their actions were all that was needed.

I recommend that you read this piece and judge for yourself. We have another fine writer in our midst.

Respectfully submitted,
ejls

 

Book Review: Backyard Princess by Daddycums

Backyard Princess, by Daddycums


Daddycums is primarily a novelist, and is accustomed to a large (sometimes epic) canvas. Thus, the short "novella" format employed in Backyard Princess must have presented him with technical constraints in terms of timing and plot development.

To read the story, one would never know that it had been a challenge for him.

Timing, character development, and flow are handled impeccably. This story is a testament to the truism that the skilled make their craft look easy.

About the story: I will not give it away, but I will say this: how many thousands of stories abound on the web, in which Boy peers over the fence and sees Girl sunbathing (or vice-versa)? That our friend D.C. charges into this cliche ridden minefield and emerges with a genuinely original story is perhaps more admirable, for its sheer audacity, than the quality of the writing.

Princess shows that character and plot can, yes, can, be developed successfully in the short format, while still leaving ample room for tasteful and titillating sex, where and when it is warranted. Most importantly, this author knows how to end a story, and evidently has the ending in sight from the moment he sets the proverbial pen to paper, as any so-called author worthy of the attribution should.

How is it, one might ask, that this author, and those at his level, make the phenomenally difficult look so easy? Simple. He reads, at least as much as he writes. (Well, I do not know him personally, and in fact he may no longer do so, but most certainly, he once did.)

All too often I hear writers say that they do not like to read the work of others while they write, because it will affect their "style." One of my poetry professors was once fond of telling the freshmen, "Don't worry about corrupting your style. I am here to tell you that you have no style. Read, read, read!" I suspect that our friend D.C. must once have heard advice along similar lines at some point in his life.

This tale is tender, sweet, suspenseful, and red-hot sexy. Best of all, D.C. is one of those rare males (no offense) who knows how to get into the head of the female psyche and nail it - hmm, not perfectly, but just good enough to assure that the ladies will love his work, too. This one is a crowd pleaser for ladies and gents alike. Rating: 10/10.

(kiss)
A.P.

 

AP, I'm so glad you reviewed this story. I wanted to, so badly, but knew I could never do it justice. What you wrote was perfect. Thank you, ejls

 

I do not want to think this thread is going by the wayside. Maybe a lull for the holidays?

 

Review of Kate, by ejls


"Excellent" is the first word that springs to mind, when starting the read of elsj's "Kate". However, the further you get down the story, the more you realize that the word "excellent" is but a weak reflection of what your brain is beeing fed through the imagination of the author.
For "Kate" is more than "excellent". Everything fits right from the opening paragraph, where the reader is confronted, to his relief I might add, with renditions of excellent (here's that word again) conversation. Not stilted, crummy, shallow nor vague, but to the point and with the exact 'intonation' and choice of words.
The story itself is bulking with literary potential. Descriptions are great, plastering crystal-clear pictures all across the mind's eye of the reader. The flow is seemless, going back and forth between views of the local scenery to some inner musings of the main characters, without the reader having to go back and forth in the text to be able to follow the narrative.
Speaking of the main character. Kate herself is a three-dimensional creation, with specific, neatly chiseled traits, extremely well depicted by the author, to the extent that you immediately sympa-/empathize with her. For this is a character we know. This is a woman we've all encountered, or will encounter, sooner or later. Flesh and blood. And spine and spirit.
Am not going to elaborate about the plot, because we're not in the spoiling business. All I can add is that, for the first story that I read on this here website, I've been treated like a king, because ejls writes like a queen: with authority and purpose, going straight for the target in a vocabulary that is both enchanting and alluring.
Did I say excellent? No? Well, it is...
Very well done, ejls


JJ

 

'Kate' is certainly among her best, but for a treat, check her list of other stories. I had to say that even though this does not represent a review. By the way, your review was superb.

 

Review of Nora, by ejls


ejls doesn't write stories. Nope. She makes you witness
happenings. Happenings in people's lives. People who were
born out of the imagination of the author. That imagination
must be a great place to be able to dwell, if only for a little while,
because what that imagination brings forth is a sight to behold.

I say 'sight', because that's what happens when reading "Nora".
From the first paragraph, the letters and words vanish to be
replaced by visions of what is being described. You see the people,
moving withinin their surroundings, you see their traits as emotions
shift, you see the transition of those emotions as the people come
to know each other better.

But what is remarkable, and the sign that screams "talent at work",
is the use of the words handled to describe everything: sparse,
yet leaving nothing to the imagination, or at least, just enough
words to give the reader the right information, at the right pace,
so that the imagination doesn't have to do overtime in order to
stick the pieces of the puzzle together in a fitting manner.

This sparse yet descriptive style also makes the story flow.
Transitions from one scene to another work without an 'interlude'
sign popping-up in one's brain, so that the reader stays focused.
Of course, the content is there also, to keep the reader immersed.
The fact that there's an actual plot, --and a good, believable one
at that-- also helps to force the attention to stay awake.

Nora, the story, is of course about Nora, the woman, but ejls is
good enough a writer to not focus too much on her main character,
but to give Nora's counterpart almost equal screen-time. The result
is an exercise in equilibrium, where the author comes out the victor,
in that ejls succeeds in finding the right balance between plot,
romance, dialogue and characterization.

Another result is that the reader is witness to something beautiful.
Something that leaves an impression. A satisfied impression,
because you're glad to have met these people. At least I was.

This first part of "Nora" is proof once more that it doesn't matter
too much what subject is being tackled. As long as the author is good.
ejls is. Good I mean. And that's an understatement.


JJ

 

Review - Canon (1 - 9) by lubutt17

http://stories.xnxx.com/profile171528/lubutt17

Let me preface this review by saying that I am not good at this sort of thing. I can only tell you how I feel, and hope that I can get my point across without sounding like I'm rambling.

The first chapter of "Canon" was posted in June of this year. What many readers don't realize, it is based on lubutt17's series "Stuart and Little Annie". It was the author's attempt to remake the story in a more age appropriate manner. What he did not realize was that "Canon" would take on a life of its own.

This story is about the unlikely love between eighteen year old Amy, and a family friend, Geoff. What the author does best is bring you into their lives. You know their wants, needs, insecurities. You want them to find love and to live happily ever after.

The scenerios set up in each chapter are born in the spectacular mind of the author. He mixes, sensuality, sexuality, fantasy and realitiy in such a way that you thoroughly believe that any of this could really happen. You can visualize each setting and each personality vividly. He also writes some of the most imaginative sex scenes on the site.

I know from speaking with him, there will be a Chapter 10, so do yourself a favor, get to know these people. You won't regret it.

10:10

 

I'm going to try to write a review. I know that I will never meet the standards of AP or ejls, or even our new guy on the block, JimmyJump, but I feel that I must try.

Since I first found this site I've been enchanted by Mark Twayn http://stories.xnxx.com/profile52318/Mark+Twayn and lately my attention has been captivated by a very nice love story from him - 'A Difficult Daughter' http://stories.xnxx.com/story/20324/A_Very_Difficult_Daughter.

This is a love story of the most sensitive kind. An unlikely but believable tale of a young girl and an older man falling in love. Their love is, in a word, lovely.

Even though there are a very few technical errors in the story (more than MT usually is guilty of) this is a thoroughly enjoyable read with enough pure emotion for anyone and enough caring, gentle, loving sex for absolutely anyone.

If you enjoy love stories, try this one. If you enjoy good stories, well written, try any of MTs stories. He is a gem that I am thankful for. If you don't care for my poor command of the language, too bad.

Love to you all.

 

I read the story too, JimmyJump.

I'm reading others of her stories, and from reading your excellent synopsis and review I hope you submit your own writing here too.

 

Now, here goes another attempt. Same author, different stories.

A trilogy is defined as a set of three related works or stories. Can't find the word for a set of four related works. Maybe a fourlogy?

Mark Twayn, of whom I have previously written, has, on his home page, http://stories.xnxx.com/profile52318/Mark+Twayn a set of four stories that are perfectly fitted to the reader who is looking for something other than a simple jerk-off story (sorry to be so crass).

The first story in the 4logy is Lucy's Lucky Break http://stories.xnxx.com/story/11379/Lucy%27s_lucky_break. This is a story principally about a young man learning the art of making love. After he learns, love develops. There are moments of some of the hottest sex imaginable along with moments of romantic love. Lots of emotion - one side to another. Trust me, the story is better than my review.

The second story in this 4logy is Lucy's Choice, Chapter 1 http://stories.xnxx.com/story/11850/Lucy's_choice._Chapter_1. I really did not care too much for this part because Lucy reminded me too much of my former wife. Even so, this story is necessary for the continuation. Bear with it.

Third is Gabrielle Transformed http://stories.xnxx.com/story/16820/Gabrielle_Transformed. A lovely story about two troubled souls finding each other. Sweet romance and healthy love at the end. Thoroughly worth enduring the pain (for me) of reading through the second story.

Fourth and final in this wonderful 4logy (I know, that's not a word) is The V8, The Redhead and the Hot-Rod. http://stories.xnxx.com/story/16890/The_V8,_The_Redhead_and_The_Hot-Rod. Funny as hell. As with all of MTs stories, very well written and lots of love and sex, but lots of humor. You will find yourself laughing every time you read the words "Davey, we need to talk".

I hope this review has pointed you toward some stories that you will enjoy as much as I do. As always, the greatest honor I can bestow on an author is re-reading their stories again and again. MT is one of the authors whose stories fit in that category.

Read, enjoy, maybe learn a new trick about making love. Love to you all.