This is trully an amazing story. I think that everything is progressing perfectly, and the dialogue is just right. I love how Kagome knows just what to do to make Sesshomaru pleased. And the part with the tulip is just so heartbreakingly sweet! The chemistry is just right so far! Keep it up!
My, my... first story, hm?
Before I get into my review, I just have to say something to you. Vocabulary, good grammar, and a sensible plot are all certainly part of what makes a story great. However, they are not what define a good story. I've read so many stories that had all of those things... yet were lacking. Like a painting, there has to be an element of something more... something that catches interest and draws the eye. You, m'dear, have that something extra.
I know potential when I see it, and you have the potential to become a phenomenal writer. The flow is lovely, the plot interesting, and the diction splendid. This story is starting off with a pefect balance of everything a good read should be.
People can be pretty hard on new writers, but don't let harsh criticism get you down. A lot of us tend to forget that not everyone here is a seasoned writer. For a new writer, you're doing fantastically! Heck, I've seen people who've been writing for years that are no where near as good, so keep it up, kiddo!
So, now for the details...
Aside from some minor things here and there, you're doing rather well. There are a few word mix-ups, a few too many commas, and just one or two things that don't really make sense to me.
The story itself is wonderful; don't touch it!! The things I noticed that seem off to me were as follows:
In the beginning you mention something about the properties of the tea, and the fact that it has benzodiazepine in it. While this isn't incorrect, it is a term that seems grossly out of place. The time line here is the Sengoku Jidai, correct? This drug wasn't discovered and christened until the mid 1950's, so using it in a story like this just looks odd. Instead of using the actual name for the drug, I would suggest simply stating that the tea has sedative qualities.
Also, while it isn't too bad in this chapter, you have to remember that this is a much simpler time, and medical practices were a lot different. I know that you stated that Kagome came form a place that had 'different practices' when it came to healing, and that's fine. What worries me here is the way you have her describe certain things. Like I said, not too bad in this chapter, but just make sure that when she's explaining things to others, she shouldn't sound like a doctor from this day and age. Try to keep her explanations simple.
So, like I said, great start! I look forward to reading more! Just remember, sometimes less is more, so when you reread things... if it sounds off to you... chances are it's going to sound off to other too. Don't spend too much time explaining things when it isn't necessary. This is known as information overload. It tends to distract and lead the reader's attention away from the plot. Interrupting the flow for unnecessary things is not good. Everything should transition smoothly.
Now, you'd mentioned earlier that you had no beta. Not trying to be presumptuous, but I'm assuming that meant you were in the market for one? If not, just ignore this. If you are, however, i would be willing to beta for you (unless you've already found someone). I don't really beta for anyone, just because I have a hard enough time updating without the extra workload, but I think for you I would make an exception. That is... if you would want me as a beta! I'm certainly not perfect, but I'm relatively good in respects to grammar, spelling, vocabulary... that kind of thing.
Again, not trying to be presumptuous. If my offer appeals to you, feel free to PM me.
Now, off to read the next chapter!!
that is a very good way to end this, even though it is killing me. i am starting to write stories on here, and so far, this one story has given me many, many ideas as of what i could do. thanks for aiding, even though you most likely did not know you were. Ja ne.
dayna (Chapter 9) - Fri 10 Sep 2010
Absolutely loved this chapter! The orange tulip was a very good idea as I can definately see Kagome and Sessy have desire and passion for one another in the future.
I also loved the interactions between Rin and Kagome, it shows that she really is a mother figure. As we know since she takes care of Shippou.
As far as the dialouge I like it how it is. As a fellow writer I have to saw that 'speaking' doesnt make the story but the little that you added did a perfect job of adding depth to the story. I think that you have found some very good balance. Not too much and not too little.
I love it.
keep of the great work
Lydia (Chapter 9) - Wed 08 Sep 2010
I really enjoy this story, it is such an interesting story line and I find reading it very relaxing. I personally like the chapters with less diolouge better, because the diolouge then holds more meaning, and the story seems to flow better. Either way, I will continue to read the bridal creed, and am anticipating the next chapter.
L-desu (Chapter 9) - Sat 04 Sep 2010
regardless of the "lack of dialogue", which i find silly, this chapter was a delight to read. there's so much going on in the undertow that to get all the subtle happenings plus dialogue is most certainly a difficult one. i applaud you for your efforts, and eagerly await the next chapter.
I normally don't read cannon stories with a Kagome that doesn't come from the future, but I like this story. I'm not too fond of Sesshoumaru already having 4 wives causing Kagome to become part of a harem. Unless I'm mistaken, he has no pups with any of them because he will only have pups with his future mate, whoever she may be. When he does take a mate, his wives will be, kind of, like concubines. That's one of the things I got from this chapter. Since he's not interested in his current wives, other than the occasional rut, I have a feeling it will be different with Kagome. I know times were different then and I'm seeing it through a modern woman's eyes, but I'd be damned if I'd want to part of a harem! I hope he does not plan to keep Kagome childless, too. It would not be fair to her since she loves children.
I believe in dialogue if the scene calls for it. Otherwise, actions and descriptions can say just as much, somestimes more. For example, when he picked that particular flower and gave it to her. That flower and color had meaning which you described. It did not need to be said. Sometimes, there can be too much dialogue.
Woo-hoo! This chapter was great and the dialogue was definitely spectacular! Who knew Sesshomaru could be such a romantic? :P Kagome definitely passed the "Rin test" with flying colors. This is great, keep it up! :D
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