Absolute Chaos Discussion Boards
Fic Talk => I Challenge You.... => Topic started by: mare on May 30, 2014, 07:38:29 PM
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Welcome to the 2014 reading challenge!
Below you will find your name and the stories you picked (complete with links) as well as things you will be asked to fill out along the way.
Just a few reminders:
- Remember to leave feedback on every chapter
- Do not be afraid to ask the authors anything about their stories
- Do not be afraid to leave constructive criticism if you think it will be helpful to the author.
- Remember to respond to your reviews
-Pace yourselves. You have the entire summer to read. Come up with some kind of plan to get your two stories done by the end of August without reading them all in one sitting or waiting until the last minute.
- DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE!!
- DO NOT QUIT THIS CHALLENGE! or I should say I WILL NOT LET YOU QUIT THIS CHALLENGE! I will bug you relentlessly and make you feel horrible for abandoning people who are taking the time to read YOUR stories. If I have to do it on Twitter, Facebook any public forums I will! Those of you who really know me, know I will do this! lol
- Come in here and talk about the stories you are reading or the experience you are having with this challenge. Even if you want to talk about any other stories you might be reading in addition to the challenge one.
- Feel free to read ANY of the stories that were offered up. Even if it's not your challenge story. If you find you have the time to check out another story, please do.
- Check this forum at least once a week!
and most importantly... .
- Get to know each other!!
And that's about it!! :)
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As of 8/30
Carterkid
Challenge Complete Hooray!!!
:wave:
DelphinaCarter
Challenge Complete Hooray!!!
:wave:
Mare
Challenge Complete Hooray!!!
:wave:
Rose
Challenge Completed Hooray!!!
:wave:
emily_michele
Challenge Complete Hooray!!!
:wave:
Julilly
Challenge Complete Hooray!!!
:wave:
Carter
Challenge Complete Hooray!!!
:wave:
Carter-Orange
Challenge Complete Hooray!!!
:wave:
Kyrie
Challenge Completed Hooray!!
:wave:
KeepThisSecret
Challenge Complete Hooray!!!
:wave:
freedomwriter
EPIC TOTAL FAIL - BOO!
:shrug:
Ritz
Challenge Complete Hooray!!!
:wave:
*Ritz for the short stories - you don't have to fill out a survey for every single one. You can treat them all kind of like chapters in a big story so when you are at the halfway point of reading the stories you can fill out the half way there survey. I might actually have to make a different survey to go better with short stories lol we learn as we go! :o
*--* = started reading the story
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Just in case anyone is binge reading and gets here quickly lol
Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story:
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise?
2) So far who is your favorite character and why?
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be)
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit?
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations?
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of)
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot?
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Well it's officially June 1st for me! (Happy 30th Birthday, Julilly!)
Now the fun begins!! (I'm such a dork!) lol
Every week I'll come in with a new question for you to answer.
Here's the first one: What's going to be your approach to reading? Are you going to read both of your stories simultaneously, or first one then the other?
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I will be reading one before the other....my ADHD wont be able to keep up with both and I am worried I will start getting the two mixed up lol...and I am going to be doing a lot of reading on a plane to Washington (from St. Louis Mo...LONGGGGG flight with two kids!!) so it will keep me kinda busy as well lol.
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I am going to read both stories simultaneously but also one at a time. lol I'll give five chapters to one then switch etc... that's what I did last year and it worked for me so I'm doing it again this year.
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I'll be reading one at a time, I've already made a start and prefer to do it that way.
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I like reading fan fic one at a time but I can read books simultaneously .
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I will also be reading them one at a time. With everything else going on, I would probably get confused if I tried to read them both simultaneously . ???
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One at a time makes my life easier lol.
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I like to make my life as difficult as possible! lol
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I've finished my first one, go me!
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Wow! That was pretty fast!
Now you're going to have to make me dig up my final surveys lol Don't forget to fill them all out!
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Okay that was easier to find then I thought it would be! lol
Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story:
Person reading it:
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story?
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one?
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story:
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story?
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework?
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story?
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end?
5) Who was your least favorite character and why?
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it?
7) Were you happy with the ending?
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one)
9) What was this stories biggest strength?
10) What was it's biggest weakness?
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author?
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one?
13) Did the author respond to your feedback?
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?
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Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story: Remember Me This Way
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? totally
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? probably Nick cause I can kind of relate in certain ways.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) yes..and I dont think its going to be a happy ending =(
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? Yes.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? I totally was NOT expecting the condition that Nick has..totally threw me off there for a sec.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. I wouldnt have stopped reading...the story line is just absolutely amazing and defiantly original in my eyes.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) I couldn't find anything lol.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot?
not off the top of my head.
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Here's my "Halfway There" survey!
Name of story: Shadow Woods by Mare
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Yup - No issues!
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? I'm going to have to go with Nick. He's the central character as well as the narrator, so it's hard not to like him. I'm enjoying his internal monologues and commentaries on the other guys.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) At this point, I'm thinking that Nick will be "taken" by the ghosts and that the other guys will have to work out a way to save him. In the end, it will be Kevin who ultimately comes to his rescue.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? The summary was bang on! It was intriguing without giving anything away.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? The fact that the "mysterious visitors" turned out to be ghosts was surprising to me. I was sure that the so-called visitors were going to be a group of psycho killers ...
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. I have to admit that I would have been tempted to stop reading when I found out that Nick was seeing ghosts simply because I don't usually go in for the whole supernatural thing. However, the writing is good ,so I may have continued reading just to see how the guys' relationships played out. To make a long story short, I'm glad this was a challenge story because it encouraged me to keep going.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) Nope!
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? Not at this point. :)
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Good morning! Just doing my weekly check in.
In the very first post you can check everyone's progress as of the date that is listed above. It gives you an idea where everyone else is on the challenge and might help you figure out where you need to be.
I am happy to see all but three of you have started reading now. :)
It's too early to start bugging you yet (That will come though) but just a reminder, please respond to your reviews! I do tell people to stop reading until they see a response, if I see there are piles of unanswered reviews. I also tell people to stop reading your stories if you haven't started participating yet. It's not fair if you get all the praise and they do all the work. That's another reason why I update that front post. So you can see for yourself, if the person's story you are about to read is taking the time to actually read the story/stories they have chosen.
Enough lecturing from me now lol Happy reading and I'll check back next weekend!!
For now here's your next question: Has there been anything that has surprised you about the story you are reading at the moment?
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Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story: As You Are
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Yes, it's a good plot and easy to follow.
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? I like Nick, he lives in a time where men were considered superior to women and yet he always listens and supports Charlotte (unlike other men of the time).
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) I forgot to complete this at the halfway mark as I got carried away reading, so already know how it ends.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? I think the summary is enough.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? I'm not sure about big surprises at the halfway point, but I like the way it's going.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. No, because it's a good, well written story.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) None that I could see.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot?
No, I can't think of any.
Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: As You Are
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? It wasn't a challenge at all as I enjoyed it very much :)
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? Once I started, I couldn't wait to see what happened next. It didn't feel like homework at all!
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? I liked it when Charlotte gave in and wore the dress Nick had bought her. She's so stubborn and independent so it was nice to see her do that little thing to please him.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Yes, but I also liked Charlotte too.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? The family member who was having a go at Nick for not being much of a man because he let Charlotte speak her mind (sorry, forgot his name).
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it?
Yes
7) Were you happy with the ending? Yes, it all ended how I wanted it to.
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one)
I didn't expect Charlotte to get caught out, didn't see it coming.
9) What was this stories biggest strength? Julilly's story telling ability, the plot and likeability of the characters.
10) What was it's biggest weakness? Can't think of a weakness.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? I've already read quite a few but will read the rest.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I'd say that reading this story was a great experience and I'm glad I picked it. The kind of feedback I gave was mainly my reactions to the events as that's the way I always do it, there was nothing negative to say about the story.
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better? I'm ok whichever way.
14) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yes, she did.
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? In reply to a question in the feedback, it worked with these characters and would work as original fiction too. I think you did well with the British stuff too, even though I'm not familiar with Britain in those times lol :)
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Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story: Living At The Top
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Yes, each chapter is told from a different boy's point of view and it's easy to follow.
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? Howie, because he's just such a sweet guy.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) I'm hoping it will end with them getting back together and going on a big tour which includes a show in Cardiff lol.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? The summary doesn't really give much clue of what the story is about, only that it's from all the boys point of view, but I think this is one of Mare's old ones and maybe transferred from an old site?
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? No big surprises really, but I'm enjoying the story.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. No, because it's a good, well written story.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) None that I can see, just the occasional typo.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot?
No, I can't think of any as I know Mare can't remember what happens in this story lol.
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^ lmao me and my memory!
And yes, this story is one of my way older ones which was just transferred over so I probably didn't say much summary wise because by the time it came over to AC it was already well read.
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I think I have changed my mind and will do one story at a time. LOL just thought I'd share.
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Lol did memory fails start happening?
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No, but that's only because I haven't started to read the second one yet. After not remembering a thing that was going on in MY own fanfics, I kind of figured it was bound to happen while reading two at once! LOL
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The altimerz (however you spell that word) has...it was unexpected thats for sure. I might start he othet one here in a few days
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I am reading a little of both at the same time because Forever is a bit long and Stockholm Syndrome is on the shorter side. Thought for this challenge I would switch it up a bit.
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Name of story:The Importance of Fly Fishing by mare
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Yes
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? Its only about Nick & Kevin so both are my favorite
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) No, But its really just a feel good kind of story
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? the summary works great
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? No big plot twist so far
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. I had this on my list to read. So no I wouldn't have stopped.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) Nope, I got stuck on chapter six but that was my fault lol
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? Not so far
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Name of story: When I Grow Up
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise?
Yup, no problems there
2) So far who is your favorite character and why?
Um, Nick I suppose. His reactions to things in the future are funny.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be)
I have a basic idea, yeah. Nick manages to change the future when he goes back to being 13 again.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit?
No, the summary's good for it.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations?
No to big surprises or plot twists, everything's been pretty easy to see where it's going.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why.
Yes, I would have. Because I can't get a feel for any of the characters in the story. The story is being told through mainly dialogue which always pulls me out. I can't picture anything really, I can't really see the thought process of anyone beyond the dialogue. It's cute but it reads more like a script than an actual story. The ideas are great and if there'd been more setup and meat to the story, yes I'd keep going in that case.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of)
Some of the dialogue tags are a bit repetitive. Also the scene changes are disjointed and a little disorienting. I chalk this up to the problem of Tracy writing from her phone. But at the same time it's hard to tell sometimes if it's a new scene or just a lot of spaces cause of formatting issues. Beyond that though everything's good in terms of errors. :)
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot?
Not now :).
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: When I Grow Up
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story?
Um, I think sticking with it.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework?
I wouldn't say it felt like homework LOL.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story?
Probably Nick wailing that he broke the car.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end?
Yes
5) Who was your least favorite character and why?
I didn't really have a least favorite.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it?
Not really, there's no room for a sequel
7) Were you happy with the ending?
Yes
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one)
Leighanne having hooked up with Nick. Ewww lol.
9) What was this stories biggest strength?
The ideas she had for it.
10) What was it's biggest weakness?
I think it's the lack of characterizati on, like I said before, it reads more like a script which weakens the story.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author?
Not based on this one, but I do think she's capable of better so I wouldn't rule it out.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one?
Tracy, I know I might've come off harsh. But it's because this was a story that had the right elements but maybe not the right follow through. I do think you needed to hear all I had to say. So I'm glad I did the challenge.
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better?
I like both ways.
14) Did the author respond to your feedback?
Yes
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?
Where did Howie go? Was he locked in the bathroom again? Should we put his face on a milk carton? lol
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Lmao i think Howie got lost somewhere. When i get around to rewriting the story (i decided today i will) i promise not to forget him. I didnt realize at the time either. Poor Howie always gets neglected. I gave him a bigger role in Finding Carter though!
At first i was a bit upset by your feedback but after we talked it over in private I understood you really were trying to help me. I can do better and i think if i fixed it, that story could really be good. So i am glad you believe in me enough to point that out. I have just never gotten concrit before, which is something that i do need. Thanks Rose.
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Hey all don't forget that when people are finished with your stories, you need to fill out the reader's survey as well! I can't believe some of you are done already! LOL
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Just got home from work. I will be posting my survey shortly, today was a bit hectic.
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: When I Grow Up
Person reading it: Rose
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? I was actually surprised she picked my story, let alone this one. I also knew she gives concrit so I was really nervous knowing I submitted stories for the challenge that are not well known or are my best work.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? She left concrit and regular feedback as well. It helped a lot because I don't normally get that on my stories.
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? Yes I did and I realized it needs a lot of work.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? Not really.
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? It started off kinda bad because I am not used to concrit but it got easier. I think it was a good experoence for me anyway.
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Name of story: Remember Me This Way
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? Commiting to finishing it since it was quiet a long story.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? It defiantly did not feel like homework for me.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? The scene that probably made me laugh the most and i dont know why it did but Nick had gotten Brian to bungee jump and Brian told Nick that heights kill people i had to contain myself
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Nick at the halfway point and then by the end Brian
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? I dont think i had a least favorite but if i had to chose it would have been his mothr.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? Yes!!!
7) Were you happy with the ending? I already had in my mind what the ending was going to be like and i was spot on with it but it was a fitting ending
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) the whole storyline surprised me actually i wasnt expecting it at all.
9) What was this stories biggest strength? The writing was just pure awesome.
10) What was it's biggest weakness? I couldnt find any weakness
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? Most defaintly!
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? It was such an awesome story to read it was different and orginal and wasnt a typical fan fiction story to me and i loved reading it...i would read it more than once it was so good.
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better? I didnt participate in the challenge last year.
14) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yes
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? None that i can think of.
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: As You Are
Person reading it: Steph
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?
I felt like this would fall pretty well within Steph's comfort zone as she is one of the few people other than myself to tackle historical AU as of late. Plus, I knew she would leave honest feedback.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?
She left plenty of feedback on every chapter! It was definitely nice to read and engage in discussion about the story but there wasn't much there by way of suggestions or concrit. Reading her final survey with the answers to my question was most helpful. :)
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?
Nope, I know how it ends lol
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story?
I asked my questions in my feedback replies and Steph answered them in her final survey!
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one?
Good! I was happy to get another set of eyes on a story I've always been unsure about and it was nice to hear from someone I have a lot of respect for that she thought it was good.
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Tracy, you said no one's ever really given you concrit before. If you've asked and still never got it, it might be in how you react. To be honest that's why in the first review I warned you that none of it was personal. I felt like you were gonna get really upset and angry at me. Which wasn't too far off the mark. I think if people knew you weren't going to react that way, more people would be willing to give you completely honest feedback. :)
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Story: Remember Me This Way
Person reading it: Carter
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?
Hopes that she wouldn't totally hate it LOL.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?
She gave tons of feedback, it was nice seeing her comment on the story. I missed getting positive feedback cause I've been flaky on writing and updates. I think it's helping to kick me back into it.
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?
Yes on certain chapters. I remember well what happens but not always where in the story LOL.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story?
Not really
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one?
So far, so good!
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Sorry that you felt that way. It just came off a little harsh that's all. Like i told you i had never gotten concrit. I didnt know how to take it. It did upset me a little because the story was submitted as a fun read. I didnt think anyone would give criticism so i didnt ask for it on
that story. So if i wasnt clear i apologize. You were just doing the challenge the way you normally would and i am not angry at you for it. I will take your suggestions and tips into consideration.
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: As You Are
Person reading it: Steph
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?
I felt like this would fall pretty well within Steph's comfort zone as she is one of the few people other than myself to tackle historical AU as of late. Plus, I knew she would leave honest feedback.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?
She left plenty of feedback on every chapter! It was definitely nice to read and engage in discussion about the story but there wasn't much there by way of suggestions or concrit. Reading her final survey with the answers to my question was most helpful. :)
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?
Nope, I know how it ends lol
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story?
I asked my questions in my feedback replies and Steph answered them in her final survey!
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one?
Good! I was happy to get another set of eyes on a story I've always been unsure about and it was nice to hear from someone I have a lot of respect for that she thought it was good.
Sorry for the lack of concrit but it didn't need anything added or taken away in my opinion, it was a story I enjoyed a lot :)
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Sorry for the lack of concrit but it didn't need anything added or taken away in my opinion, it was a story I enjoyed a lot :)
I guess if anything that is concrit, just the positive kind!
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Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story: Stockholm Syndrome
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? I would say yes.
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? Nick because he is the one I've learned most about so far.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) no but I like to be surprised.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? Julilly is a great writer so no.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? I wasn't expecting Kevin to be included in the story or Brian to be a jerk.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. I love the story so far so no I wouldn't have stopped reading. If a story is really good little makes me stop reading.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) No
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? Where did you get the idea for this story?
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^ No one ever expects me to put Kevin in stories lol so when I do, I make his role small! :P
I don't really remember if there was a specific "ah-ha!" moment when I came up with the idea for this story. I was in the process of writing a couple other crime-related stories, one about a bank robbery and one about a murder, at the time. I remember the kidnapping storyline was very popular when I wrote this one (which would have been about 10 years ago!) so I decided to flip the boy-gets-kidnapped around to boy-is-kidnapper because anything is possible in AU!
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Hello! Welcome to check-in Saturday! :)
I am so happy to see that everyone has started on their stories!! This is where I start getting a little more involved in helping to move you guys along. Some of you never need much prodding. (Steph already finished her challenge for the most part!) but others sometimes do, that's where I come in with my friendly reminders. I'll always post them in this thread on Saturdays if I feel like you are behind or maybe have forgotten about some element of the challenge. How I figure this out is simple. I check the reviews and the date the last one was given. If you have read the entire story but are only on chapter 4 of reviews, as far as I am concerned, you're only on chapter 4. If I look at the date of the last review you left and more than a week has gone by I might also give you a reminder to keep reading, or if I check and there are some unanswered reviews I'll also mention them here. If you are still not doing what needs to be done, then I'll be contacting you via reviews of your stories, twitter etc...
I am going to give you some goals to keep you on track a bit. (I would say deadlines, but for whatever reason, that word freaks people out lol)
If you are reading one story at a time: You should have your halfway survey done for the first story, by June 30th at the latest.
If you are reading both stories simultaneously, your halfway surveys (both of them) should be done by July 16th at the latest.
If you are reading only one very long story, your halfway survey should be done by July 16th at the latest.
Once you pass those dates and have not reached those goals, I'll start pretty much bugging you daily about it. LOL *You signed up for this. You knew it was coming!*
Friendly reminders for this week:
- Julilly needs to respond to her reviews for Stockholm Syndrome
- Freedomwriter needs to respond to her review of Dangers of Fluttering
- Rose needs to respond to a review of Walked Out of My Dreams
* Another reminder - if by chance you had selected the option to not receive emails when you get reviews, you might want to change that just for the summer.
Thanks guys! And Happy reading! :)
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: Living At The Top
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? It wasn't a challenge at all as I enjoyed it very much :)
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? It didn't feel like homework at all, in fact I only intended to read a couple of chapters yesterday but found myself reading about ten and finishing it.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? I liked it when Brian defied Leighanne and got on a plane to see Nick, it was a great brotherly moment when they saw each other again.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? I loved them all equally really.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? Leighanne, because she was a real bitch most of the time lol
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? I really don't think it needs I sequel, but I'd read one.
7) Were you happy with the ending? Yes, it all ended how I wanted it to, although for a moment I thought it wouldn't end happily!
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) I suppose Brian getting a backbone and going to see Nick against Leighanne's wishes.
9) What was this stories biggest strength? Mare's story telling ability, the plot and likeability of the characters.
10) What was it's biggest weakness? Can't think of a weakness.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? I've already read quite a few but will read the rest, and have a few that I've started and need to finish.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I'd say that reading this story was a great experience and I'm glad I picked it. The kind of feedback I gave was mainly my reactions to the events as that's the way I always do it, there was nothing negative to say about the story (sorry, this is exactly what I said for Julilly's, but same applies).
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better? I'm ok whichever way.
14) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yes, she did.
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? No, just that I enjoyed it.
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Ooh I didn't get the notification email that I got a review, my bad!
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Friendly reminders for this week:
- Julilly needs to respond to her reviews for Stockholm Syndrome
I told you Thursday I would do it today and I totally did! :P
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I told you Thursday I would do it today and I totally did! :P
Good! LOL Still thought I'd give a reminder just in case...
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: Living at the Top
Person reading it: Steph
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? I was happy because I know Steph and I figured she'd like this one.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? She is always fantastic with leaving feedback. It wasn't necessarily helpful but this story is so old I really didn't need to be. lol
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? I probably should have because I barely remembered this one, but I most likely won't.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? Nope
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? Yes, it was a great experience. I can't believe she's finished it already! LOL
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
*I put a spoiler alert on the biggest surprise answer. I hope you don't mind KeepThisSecret but I kind of want to keep that secret! lol It's what makes the entire story. ;D
Name of story: Shadow Woods
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? I probably encountered the most difficulty at the beginning (in terms of motivation to keep reading) because there were a lot of "supernatural" things going on and that is not really my thing. However, I really enjoyed the story towards the end, so I'm glad that I kept going with it.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? I was definitely looking forward to reading it, especially towards the end.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? I really enjoyed the part where Nick convinces "Evil Brian" to give him a piggy-back ride up the hill. Too funny!
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Yup - I liked the growth that Nick's character experienced throughout the story.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? Probably Matt because he chopped up Sarah and Mary-Beth with a hatchet.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? You bet!
7) Were you happy with the ending? I was extremely satisfied with the ending. I liked how Mare summed things up while still leaving a lot of unanswered questions.
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) [spoiler]The fact that Nick had meningitis and was essentially dreaming the whole thing from his hospital bed. I probably should have been able to figure it out, but it threw me for a loop.[/spoiler]
9) What was this stories biggest strength? Nick as the narrator was strong. He told the story as he saw things, which created just enough confusion and doubt to keep my guessing,
10) What was it's biggest weakness? I can't identify a weakness. Nothing stood out as wrong or unrealistic and the writing was good!
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? Yes - Actually, I had read Hope by Mare prior to reading this story and that's why I selected this story for the challenge.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I had a really great time reading this story! I mostly commented on what was going on in the story, but I also tried to throw in some of my predictions (which all turned out to be wrong - LOL). There wasn't really anything to critique, because Mare did an awesome job with the writing.
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better? I didn't participate in the challenge last year. :P
14) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yup!
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? Thanks for giving me such a positive (reading) experience with my first-ever reading challenge!
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Aww two of you are done reading my stories. :( This makes me sad. lol
Story: Shadow Woods
Person reading it: KeepThisSecret
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?
I was excited because she's a pretty great writer so I was counting on really insightful, honest feedback and I wasn't disappointed!
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?
Yes she did and yes, it was!
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?
I am kind of re-reading the OF version of the story now so in a way, yes.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story?
Not that I can think of.
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one?
It was a great experience! :)
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Questions:
1) What is the hardest part of the challenge for you? (Reading, reviewing, responding to reviews etc...) and why?
2) How do you feel about getting reviews for the challenge? Are you excited to read them or do you dread them?
3) After you review are you curious to see what the author has to say?
4) Has this changed the way you handle reading other people's stories?
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Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story: All of Your Life
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise?
Yes, the plot is not confusing at all. Pretty straight forward.
2) So far who is your favorite character and why?
I love Nick because he is so open with the idea of falling in love with Rayna. I also like Rayna because despite all she's been through, she seems like a tough lady.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be)
I'm going to go out on a limb here and say yes, I'm pretty sure at this point.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit?
I think the summary works perfectly.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations?
Not really, except for maybe the speed at which the two of them have fallen for each other. It reminds me of Tony and Maria in West Side Story a little minus the snapping, dancing and singing every five seconds. lol
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why.
I would have stopped most likely, although it would have nothing to do with the plot. Even though it's really not something I would ever read, Carter's two main characters (Nick and Rayna) are so likable I actually do care about them both, but there are so many grammatical errors that it makes it really not fun to read. Especially if you tend to be a grammar police person like I am. lol
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of)
As I've mentioned to carter in my feedback, there are a lot of grammar issues. Missing periods at the end of sentences, making them run on forever. Going back and forth between past and present tense, etc... all of those things makes it hard for a reader to keep track of what's going on and might be a reason for the small amount of reviews this story received, which is a shame because it's a good story otherwise. Just needs a fair amount of editing. I'll take a good plot and strong characters over a weak plot with weak characters any day. It's very rare for me to like a female character and root for them all the way through, but I like Rayna. That should say something.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot?
Nope, this story is very self explanatory. I know it's intensely personal to her and I feel like I'm watching a scene from her life. :)
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1) What is the hardest part of the challenge for you? (Reading, reviewing, responding to reviews etc...) and why? Reading and sticking to it even though I have already completed one story lol
2) How do you feel about getting reviews for the challenge? Are you excited to read them or do you dread them? a little bit of both because I know my story has issues lol
3) After you review are you curious to see what the author has to say? I get up every morning and read my review while drinking a cup of diet coke lol
4) Has this changed the way you handle reading other people's stories? no, but when I get home from visiting my parents next month I will probably do a lot of reviewing and editing...and all of that stuff to improve my stories...as well as future stories cause I have another story that I have started while I was on the plane :)
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1) What is the hardest part of the challenge for you? (Reading, reviewing, responding to reviews etc...) and why?
Definitely the reading. I have really not been a huge fanfic reader so just reading the stories will be the toughest part. That's why I do only one chapter a day lol and always have.
2) How do you feel about getting reviews for the challenge? Are you excited to read them or do you dread them?
It's something I do/did look forward to.
3) After you review are you curious to see what the author has to say?
Yes, I'm always curious to see what the author has to say about my take on what happened.
4) Has this changed the way you handle reading other people's stories?
Not really because I came up with this challenge, I modeled it after the way I do things. lol
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Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story: The Road That Leads to Who Knows Where by freedomwriter
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise?:
Pretty much, yes. My biggest issue with the plot is the pace. It's slow and I'm personally more drawn to fast-paced stories. I think there's a feeling that in order to create suspense, there should be more chapters that don't really reveal anything but the suspense isn't building up, it's plateaued. I'm finding the plot very repetitive at this point. I'm on chapter 15 and not much has really happened.
2) So far who is your favorite character and why?:
I don't really know. Every chapter has been done from the perspective of a different character so I haven't had the opportunity to get to know or create a connection to any one character in particular.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses?:
I haven't the foggiest idea! I haven't really figured out what happened at the beginning yet lol
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit?:
At this point, it's a very accurate description! It's pretty short, so I suppose I might go into a bit more detail but she's trying to create the aura of suspense so it works.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations?:
No, I keep waiting for something to happen, some big twist or ah-ha moment but it's mostly been the same period of time told from someone else's perspective. I find that some of the perspectives don't really add to the story or move the plot forward. The small nugget of information that I get from it could have easily been incorporated into someone else's scene.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why.
I feel bad for saying this but, no. :hidesface: I'm really struggling with this one because of the pace. It's very slow and there's not enough tension/suspense for how many chapters I've read that would have kept me clicking 'next' in a normal circumstance.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of)
No, this story is genuinely well written. There are some great moments that I've been trying to note in my reviews and good ideas in there also.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot?
I suppose now would be the time to ask, why did you pick to give an entire chapter to each perspective rather than having a few different points of view in one chapter? Or, alternatively, if each perspective gets a full chapter why did you choose to have so many?
I don't know if it continues throughout as I'm only a chapter shy of halfway but have you found it challenging to continue with the style you've chosen?
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1) What is the hardest part of the challenge for you? (Reading, reviewing, responding to reviews etc...) and why? reviewing. Mostly because I have trouble going into details, most of the time I write short and sweet stuff lol but I also read slow so that could be hard for the writer to wait on the review
2) How do you feel about getting reviews for the challenge? Are you excited to read them or do you dread them? A little of both
3) After you review are you curious to see what the author has to say? always
4) Has this changed the way you handle reading other people's stories? Not really
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Ahhh I didn't even think about giving that bit away when I was filling this out. I don't know what I was thinking ... perhaps that no one else would read it?? LOL oooops!
Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
*I put a spoiler alert on the biggest surprise answer. I hope you don't mind KeepThisSecret but I kind of want to keep that secret! lol It's what makes the entire story. ;D
Name of story: Shadow Woods
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? I probably encountered the most difficulty at the beginning (in terms of motivation to keep reading) because there were a lot of "supernatural" things going on and that is not really my thing. However, I really enjoyed the story towards the end, so I'm glad that I kept going with it.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? I was definitely looking forward to reading it, especially towards the end.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? I really enjoyed the part where Nick convinces "Evil Brian" to give him a piggy-back ride up the hill. Too funny!
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Yup - I liked the growth that Nick's character experienced throughout the story.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? Probably Matt because he chopped up Sarah and Mary-Beth with a hatchet.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? You bet!
7) Were you happy with the ending? I was extremely satisfied with the ending. I liked how Mare summed things up while still leaving a lot of unanswered questions.
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) [spoiler]The fact that Nick had meningitis and was essentially dreaming the whole thing from his hospital bed. I probably should have been able to figure it out, but it threw me for a loop.[/spoiler]
9) What was this stories biggest strength? Nick as the narrator was strong. He told the story as he saw things, which created just enough confusion and doubt to keep my guessing,
10) What was it's biggest weakness? I can't identify a weakness. Nothing stood out as wrong or unrealistic and the writing was good!
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? Yes - Actually, I had read Hope by Mare prior to reading this story and that's why I selected this story for the challenge.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I had a really great time reading this story! I mostly commented on what was going on in the story, but I also tried to throw in some of my predictions (which all turned out to be wrong - LOL). There wasn't really anything to critique, because Mare did an awesome job with the writing.
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better? I didn't participate in the challenge last year. :P
14) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yup!
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? Thanks for giving me such a positive (reading) experience with my first-ever reading challenge!
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Ahhh I didn't even think about giving that bit away when I was filling this out. I don't know what I was thinking ... perhaps that no one else would read it?? LOL oooops!
aww I don't know whether to be highly offended by that remark. I'll get back to you! LOL :(
It's okay, I didn't even think about it until Julilly texted me and said something like, "Well now that I know the twist in Shadow Woods, It won't be as much fun to read."
Not that the black spoiler thing will keep people from looking. I am one of those people that would TOTALLY still look at what it says! LOL
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: Stockholm Syndrome
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? Sticking to reading daily due to my work schedule this time around.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? I always enjoy reading so it never felt like homework at all.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? I liked the chapter where Nick and Brian face off and Nick hits him with the frying pan to get away lol
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Yes he was.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? I wanna say Kevin because he wasn't really in the story much.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? It is fine the way it is without a sequel but yes I'd read one.
7) Were you happy with the ending? Yes I was
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) the sex scene threw me off for a minute actually. But the story was so good it wasn't a big issue and I skimmed it.
9) What was this stories biggest strength? The pacing was easy to follow and it was a well written story.
10) What was it's biggest weakness? It didnt really have any honestly. Julilly is a great writer.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? I've read other stories by her so yes
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I felt that this story didn't need any criticism but I pointed out things I liked and tried to be detailed. Hope that was OK. Like I said she is a great writer so I reviewed like I normally would.
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better? I am always happy either way.
14) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yes she did
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? What made you choose the guys personalities and their roles in the story?
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LOL - Don't be offended! I meant that I didn't think that anyone would read my survey, not that no one else would want to read your story!! *forehead slap*
Sorry Julilly for ruining the surprise!! :-[
aww I don't know whether to be highly offended by that remark. I'll get back to you! LOL :(
It's okay, I didn't even think about it until Julilly texted me and said something like, "Well now that I know the twist in Shadow Woods, It won't be as much fun to read."
Not that the black spoiler thing will keep people from looking. I am one of those people that would TOTALLY still look at what it says! LOL
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LOL - Don't be offended! I meant that I didn't think that anyone would read my survey, not that no one else would want to read your story!! *forehead slap*
Sorry Julilly for ruining the surprise!! :-[
Aww lol We share a brain so if she ever does decide to read it, most likely she'll forget what the twist was by then anyway!
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Name of story: Switch by carterkid
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? I completely understand the general premise of the story, but the storyline is a little hard to follow because of some chapter organizational things (like one chapter will have only one scene, one POV, while the next might have three or four scenes and/or POVs)
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? I think Nick. His personality seems to be coming out a little more.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) I assume they'll switch back, but I'm interested to see how that happens.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? I think the summary works pretty well.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? There was a chapter about "salsa night," and it's not what you probably think. I thought it was cute.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. I may have stopped, yes. Mainly, because I'm finding it a little hard to follow. I am interested in seeing where it goes, so I may have kept reading as well. It's a toss-up.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) Not really, other than a few grammar/organizational things- but they're small.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? Why did you choose these two Backstreet Boys as the main characters?
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Aww lol We share a brain so if she ever does decide to read it, most likely she'll forget what the twist was by then anyway!
Sad but true because I already had to think super hard to remember :P
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Name of story: Switch by carterkid
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? I completely understand the general premise of the story, but the storyline is a little hard to follow because of some chapter organizational things (like one chapter will have only one scene, one POV, while the next might have three or four scenes and/or POVs)
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? I think Nick. His personality seems to be coming out a little more.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) I assume they'll switch back, but I'm interested to see how that happens.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? I think the summary works pretty well.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? There was a chapter about "salsa night," and it's not what you probably think. I thought it was cute.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. I may have stopped, yes. Mainly, because I'm finding it a little hard to follow. I am interested in seeing where it goes, so I may have kept reading as well. It's a toss-up.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) Not really, other than a few grammar/organizational things- but they're small.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? Why did you choose these two Backstreet Boys as the main characters?
I picked Nick/Kevin because I thought it was a good idea to do the oldest/youngest kind of thing. Kevin could find out about Nick's life and Nick could find out about Kevin's life.
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Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story: Forever
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Yes
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? emily because she is enjoyable to read about and it's fun to learn something new about her in every chapter.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) no but I like to be surprised. I kind of want Emily to end up with Kevin lol but I know I am wrong. I am just enjoying the ride.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? It's very accurate and fine the way it is.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? I wasn't expecting Nick and Chrissy hooking up or for him to be so wise and mature. I was also surprised that Kevin and Emily didn't hook up in the hotel room.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. I am enjoying the story so far so no I wouldn't have stopped reading.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) No other than occasional typo but I can overlook those.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? Where did you get the idea for this story? Did you spend any time developing the characters before writing? Did any real life situation inspire some of Emily life in the the story?
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Happy Saturday!
It looks like everyone who is reading only one story at a time is right on track! Good for all of you!!! :)
Friendly reminder's this week:
Two of you haven't read anything in two weeks (as far as looking at the reviews go anyway)
Kyrie
freedomwriter
Try to read a little bit every week otherwise you are going to fall behind and it's going to feel more like homework if you have to rush to get it done.
My suggestion is to look at how many chapters a story is and give yourself assigned days to read, especially if you aren't a big fanfic reader to begin with.
See you next week!
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I am sooo behind, you ladies have posted halfway there survey already. *pouts* But I can do this, I won't fail Mare and I am actually enjoying Emily's story. (I just have to find more time, lol)
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Thanks for checking in, Ritz! Since you read one of mine, I technically placed you on the reading two at once list which means you have to be halfway there by mid-July but the important thing is, you at least came in here and said something so this way, Emily and everyone else knows you are reading but you're just falling behind.
I really wish more of you would do that, it really helps the authors know it's maybe not their story and you're just busy or something.
And if that's the case, by the way (It is their story), it's also the purpose of the challenge and you SHOULD be mentioning that in your feedback.
Yes, you can tell I am starting to get a little annoyed with some lack of response and the nagging will soon commence.
:) lol
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^if this is facebook, I would have liked your post. lol Thanks for understanding, Mare. One thing I can promise, I am committed to this year's challenge and every year after.
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Aww thanks, Ritz! I only care because it really does effect the other writers when people just stop without explanation. It drives me nuts lol
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Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story: Forever
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Yes
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? emily because she is enjoyable to read about and it's fun to learn something new about her in every chapter.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) no but I like to be surprised. I kind of want Emily to end up with Kevin lol but I know I am wrong. I am just enjoying the ride.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? It's very accurate and fine the way it is.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? I wasn't expecting Nick and Chrissy hooking up or for him to be so wise and mature. I was also surprised that Kevin and Emily didn't hook up in the hotel room.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. I am enjoying the story so far so no I wouldn't have stopped reading.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) No other than occasional typo but I can overlook those.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? Where did you get the idea for this story? Did you spend any time developing the characters before writing? Did any real life situation inspire some of Emily life in the the story?
Sorry it took me a few days to answer your questions, Tracy. Truth be told, and I think I've explained this about the "Forever" story before, this is a rewrite and combination of the fanfic that a group of friends and I used to write back in the day, circa 1998-99. That group of friends basically represents the girls in the story, with a few tweaks to make them fictional, and some dramatic flair added in a few cases. So, "Emily" in the story has a lot of me in her, albeit a younger, more vulnerable Emily in a fictional world. I only wish I'd changed up the names a bit more, particularly for the main character. LOL. As a matter of fact, there are a few scenes that are word for word what I wrote when I was a teenager (though those are pretty few and far between).
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Hello and welcome to check in Saturday! :)
If you are reading one story at a time: You should have your halfway survey done for the first story, by June 30th at the latest.
Everyone who is reading one story at a time has completed the halfway there surveys before the deadline! YAY!!! ;D
If you are reading both stories simultaneously, your halfway surveys (both of them) should be done by July 16th at the latest.
If you are reading only one very long story, your halfway survey should be done by July 16th at the latest.
The above are your next goals.
In addition: If you haven't started on your second stories yet, you probably should get going on them sometime this week. By next Saturday, everyone should be on their second story, even if it's just the first chapter.
Friendly reminders for the week:
Freedomwriter - Don't forget to answer your feedback for The Road That Leads To Who Knows Where and Dangers of Fluttering
Julilly - Don't forget to fill in your reader's survey for Stockholm Syndrome
So, keep on reading and responding and I'll see you back here next weekend! :)
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Just a note about stories in progress that may be updated while you are reading them. If you have already filled out the halfway there and final surveys and then a new chapter is posted, it's completely up to you whether or not you want to continue reading and reviewing. It depends on you and whether or not you enjoyed it enough to keep reading. If it's updated before you fill those surveys out then you SHOULD keep reading them.
Hope that helps!
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: All of Your Life
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story?
I knew for me, the biggest challenge would be just reading it. I haven't really been a very big fanfic reader as of late, so just sticking with the story was going to be rough, any story.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework?
I usually read first thing in the morning when my mind is clear so it doesn't feel like homework. The longer I wait to read something the less I want to. Again it has nothing to do with the story, this is ANY story. I am telling you, that's the challenge for me. I have the fanfic reading attention span of a gnat. lol
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story?
This is going to sound incredibly horrible and morbid, but baby Melissa's funeral.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end?
I don't remember who I said I liked at the beginning but I think Nick turned out to be my favorite character in the end.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why?
Probably Jane, even though she wasn't quite depicted in a realistic Jane type way, she was still mean and annoying. Just not AS mean and annoying as she seems to be in real life. LOL
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it?
I understand there already is a sequel to this story. I don't think there needs to be though, so most likely I wouldn't. I feel like the story and characters wrapped up very nicely in this one and we found out all we needed to know.
7) Were you happy with the ending?
Yes, like I said before, it wrapped up nicely and needed that happy ending after the whole tragedy of a baby dying.
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one)
I wasn't expecting one of the twins to die.
9) What was this stories biggest strength?
Because she drew from personal experience, that's how the story came across. It seemed very personal, because it was.
10) What was it's biggest weakness?
The mechanics - grammar, sentence structure, overall plot and character development.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author?
Based on this story alone, I would say no, but I think with a bit of work and a lot of editing, I might consider reading another one down the road.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one?
I admit, at first it was a little tough for me because grammatically there were so many things that needed to be fixed, I felt like I was giving too much concrit. Once I got a sense that Carter understood that side of things, I was able to ignore those mistakes and instead focus on the overall plot of the story and only occasionally offered some advice. I found once I did that, it was a bit easier to read and review.
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better?
I'm going to take this question off the survey lol because this is the new way we're doing things.
14) Did the author respond to your feedback?
Yes, she did! *claps!* lol
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?
I'm glad I got a chance to get to know carter through this experience. She has had quite the life and in the end, I'm glad everything has turned out well for her!
Because this story was so personal to you, did you find it hard if and when people criticized or didn't like your characters?
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Person reading it: Mare
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? I believe I felt completely terrified! lol
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? Oh yes :)
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? Most defiantly because with some chapters I could not for the life of me remember what I had written or why I wrote a certain chapter the way I did.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? Nope...
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? I found it to be a good one. I know my stories are hard to probably understand and the grammar is just terrible at times but I know I will be going home and editing and revising some stuff so I think I will grow from here on out :)
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15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?[/b]
I'm glad I got a chance to get to know carter through this experience. She has had quite the life and in the end, I'm glad everything has turned out well for her!
Because this story was so personal to you, did you find it hard if and when people criticized or didn't like your characters?
I take it in stride...I know that I underdeveloped the characters and such with this story. I know the characters are based off my real personal life and some of its weird and odd I guess but at the end of the day I am the one who knows them the best and personally so if they don't like it then it's like a whatever kind of thing i guess. I try not to take it personal because I know this is just a story :)
Also, one quick note lol..with the sequel I had this whole thing out in my head and I only went with a sequel because I didn't know much about the NKOTBSB tour...to be honest I didn't keep up with it at all! So I decided to continue it after that particular tour was over with and the recording process had started for IAWLT. I wrote most of this story I think before the new album was even out and as i listened to it I started thinking of things and I just kinda added on to it. After I learned Nick & Lauren were getting married I was like oooo I can add this, this this and ooo a little of that in as well lol. I actually have ANOTHER sequel lined up after "Happily Never After" it would be hard to explain really lol.
But Now that I have rambled a little bit I am glad you liked it Mare I am sorry it was tough to read in spots but I am hoping when I get home (finally flying home on Tuesday!) that I can re-write and do a little research and make my new stories a little better :)
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Person reading it: Mare
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? I believe I felt completely terrified! lol
Aww lol I'm not that scary!
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Aww lol I'm not that scary!
LOL it was more or less because you are a big name writer on the site...and it did terrify me because I know my stories aren't popular and I am such a worry wart that no one will like them it happens every time I start a new story.
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^I feel the same way. I think we all do! It's really scary starting a new story. You never know if people are going to like it or not.
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Name of story: Switch
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story?
Really just taking the time to sit down and get it read. Between work and my three year old, and battling third trimester exhaustion, it was hard to find the time to actually sit and read something in a way that I needed to provide thoughtful feedback. The reading challenge is a lot more "challenging" for me as a reader because I'm a leisure reader and don't always provide feedback after every chapter I read.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework?
A little of both, actually. The story was written in a way that I wanted to know what happened next, but I had some trouble reading in a fashion that helped me provide good feedback, like I described in the last question.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story?
There is one scene that sticks out to me because I thought the description fit the situation so well. Kevin was on Nick "like a bull in a China shop" over Kristin. I liked the twist in the story with the Kristin storyline.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end?
Yes- I think I said I liked Nick the best in the halfway there survey, and I still liked Nick at the end.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why?
Maybe AJ or Howie...simply because they had such roles you really didn't get to know them as characters.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it?
I'd like to see this story finished first.
7) Were you happy with the ending?
I can't answer this question because it's still in progress.
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one)
Kristin's accident. The pregnancy was enough, then BAM, another Kristin surprise.
9) What was this stories biggest strength?
The element of surprise that kept you wondering what would happen next.
10) What was it's biggest weakness?
I would say lack of development. There were some very short chapters that had the potential to be so great if they had been elaborated upon and combined with scenes from subsequent chapters.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author?
She has talked about the potential of a rewrite, and I would be interested in seeing how she improves. I think the potential is there.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one?
This story has great potential. It is a general storyline that has been done a couple times before, but there is enough unique drama in the plotline to set it apart from other stories. I struggled with feedback, because I feel like with a few tweaks (more plot and character development mainly), it could be a very good story. There were some confusing points that I did point out, and I hope my concrit was taken okay.
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better?
Mare says she's taking this question out. I've only ever done the challenge like this anyway.
14) Did the author respond to your feedback?
Yes.
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?
If you really want to do a rewrite (and aren't just thinking that because of some concrit you received as part of the challenge, you should do a rewrite). If you really want to do it, I'd be happy to provide some feedback. Like I said before, this has the potential to be a really great story.
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Name of story: Walked Out of My Dreams by Rose
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Absolutely! It’s very easy to read and give flashbacks with enough description that it doesn’t make you try to remember who everyone is.
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? It’s surprisingly not Brian but Nick. I can understand how important his friendship is with Brian and I respect him for trying so hard to find his best friend and brother.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) I’m not sure LOL I keep flipping between endings such as Brian actually being deceased or in a mental institution under some delusion.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? I think it’s the perfect description to the story, it gets right to the point and you know what you’re getting into.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? I just got to the part where Kevin has found something that may lead to Brian’s whereabouts so I’m hoping this is a big one!
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. No, once I start a story, I like to finish it. Also, I sometimes forget to check the site for previous stories unless I’ve read the author before or it shows up on the new pager. This story is a great reminder that I need to start searching for more stories!
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of). Not so far
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? I’m curious about the location of the country where Brian is. I wasn’t sure if it was made up or a real place somewhere.
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It's a real place.
I realized that to make this plot remotely possible I needed a place where he wouldn't be recognized. Which is hard because of how well known he is LOL. So I looked it up and it's one of the most remote places in the world. They're a little behind the times but still English speaking so I realized it'd be a perfect place for Brian to run to.
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^I feel the same way. I think we all do! It's really scary starting a new story. You never know if people are going to like it or not.
I have a new story to post when i get home and i think it turned out ok well the prolgue anyway ;)
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Quick question.. can i continue to read even though the author hasnt responded? I tend to binge read and get a bit ahead but i also want to give her time to catch up on reviews as well.
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^ That's your call. If she's the type to give responses but just a 'tad' later? Because I know there are people who don't bother to respond to reviews until they are about to post a new chapter, then I would say yes, go for it. But if it's a habitual thing, then I would wait. But, that's what I would do though.
But I also get that the longer you wait to review, the less you might remember about what you read. That's why I would just stop reading altogether, but again that's what I would do because that by far is my biggest fanfic pet peeve on the planet (besides banners and writers who do not bother to give feedback but complain when they don't get it lol)
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Not to go all off topic for a second but Emily, I completely forgot you were pregnant! When are you due?
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August 19th, but it's looking like I'll have to have a repeat c-section about a week before. Therefore, I've got about 6 weeks or less to go. Freaking out just a little. Time got away from me. Thanks for asking!
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Yikes! Best of luck to you! I bet that is scary.
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^ That's your call. If she's the type to give responses but just a 'tad' later? Because I know there are people who don't bother to respond to reviews until they are about to post a new chapter, then I would say yes, go for it. But if it's a habitual thing, then I would wait. But, that's what I would do though.
But I also get that the longer you wait to review, the less you might remember about what you read. That's why I would just stop reading altogether, but again that's what I would do because that by far is my biggest fanfic pet peeve on the planet (besides banners and writers who do not bother to give feedback but complain when they don't get it lol)
Looks like the story isnt completed and there hasn't been a new chapter posted in almost two months, she has responded to a few but that is about it. I think I will go ahead and keep reading cause I know I will usually forget something espeically if I haven't read it for a long period of time.
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Halfway There!
Name of story: First Impressions by Kyrie
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Yup!
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? I'm really enjoying AJ's character. Kyrie has gone away from the traditional AJ stereotype (the couldn't-care-less kinda bad-boy) and she has made him a little bit more sweet and sensitive. It's refreshing to see a different take on his character.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) At this point, I think that it's going to end badly for AJ and Kat. :-[
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? The summary is good, no changes needed!
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? Not as of yet, but I think that a twist is about to come.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. I would have kept going, but I probably would have blown through the whole thing in one shot and not left feedback after every chapter. The chapters are pretty short, so I often find myself clicking "next" automatically and then having to go back and leave a review. :P
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) Nope!
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? Not at this moment.
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Story: Switch
Person reading it:emily_michele
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? I was happy, I have read her work before and was glad she was reading mine.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? yes
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? no
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? nope
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? good
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: Stockholm Syndrome
Person reading it: Tracy
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?: I thought it might go either way because I wasn't really sure where her tastes lie but I was pretty certain she wasn't much of an AU person.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?: Yeah, she left feedback throughout. It was nice to just engage in conversation about the story and a couple points definitely left me thinking about how I could have done things differently.
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?: Nope
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story?: If this was your story, what's one thing you would have done differently?
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one?: Good one, it was fun chatting about the story again!
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Halfway there survey
Name of story: A Dash of Cinnamon
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Yup, it's pretty straight forward
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? I'm not sure. I don't feel like I've really connected with any one particular character as of yet. I guess if I had to choose I would say Brian because he's going through so many different kinds of emotions.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) Yeah, I'm pretty sure it's a love triangle and I know which way it'll end at this point.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? So far, so good. It eludes to something that clearly hasn't happened in the story yet, so I'll be able to tell better at the end I suppose.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? Not really, no. It's fairly predictable. Not a bad thing, though!
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. Probably not. I would never voluntarily read a Brian-centered fic because I find him incredibly one-dimensional as a character and if I'm going to read a romance I am VERY picky so Brian + romance = Zzzz for me.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) No, not at all. It's excellently written!
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? What, if any, of your own life experiences have you put into this story?
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In response to Julilly, no I don't typically read AU, which
Is quite interesting considering that I have written it before. I still enjoyed the story though.
The story is fine but it would have been interesting to see more of an investigation when it came to Brian. I felt it was odd he was dismissed as a suspect so quickly, but I wasn't bothered too much by it.
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6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. Probably not. I would never voluntarily read a Brian-centered fic because I find him incredibly one-dimensional as a character and if I'm going to read a romance I am VERY picky so Brian + romance = Zzzz for me.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? What, if any, of your own life experiences have you put into this story?
HAHA! - I have quickly come to realize that there are very few people out there who want to read a Brian centered fic (let alone a romance). I hope you are not finding it too sleep-inducing!! :P
I haven't really added any of my own life experiences into the story (aside from Kayla's nationality). I have inserted some characters that I know in real life into the story (the gay couple and their dogs were modeled after my old neighbours), and I've drawn on my experiences with pre-teens to build Baylee's character. That's pretty much it though.
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HAHA! - I have quickly come to realize that there are very few people out there who want to read a Brian centered fic (let alone a romance). I hope you are not finding it too sleep-inducing!! :P
I haven't really added any of my own life experiences into the story (aside from Kayla's nationality). I have inserted some characters that I know in real life into the story (the gay couple and their dogs were modeled after my old neighbours), and I've drawn on my experiences with pre-teens to build Baylee's character. That's pretty much it though.
This list is for you: http://www.buzzfeed.com/perpetua/canadian-foods?bffb Number 18 in particular! LOL
I liked the tidbit that you know the neighbour couple in real life. I think that was a nice touch!
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This list is for you: http://www.buzzfeed.com/perpetua/canadian-foods?bffb Number 18 in particular! LOL
This just made me immensely happy to be Canadian!! - LOL - The majority of the things on that list are delicious! :drools: I'm still amazed by the Smarties thing, and I had no idea that you couldn't buy All Dressed chips in the states (although I did know that you can't find Ketchup Chips and Coffee Crisp). Haha!
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Your Smarties look way better than our Smarties! Also, Crush Pink Cream Soda? I may need to move to Canada!
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This just made me immensely happy to be Canadian!! - LOL - The majority of the things on that list are delicious! :drools: I'm still amazed by the Smarties thing, and I had no idea that you couldn't buy All Dressed chips in the states (although I did know that you can't find Ketchup Chips and Coffee Crisp). Haha!
I did find the list awfully biased toward central Canada, but then again most of us outside of it always feel left out lol I was surprised by no Halifax donair! Also someone in the comments mentioned no butter tarts and I was like what?! There's no butter tarts in the US!? Not okay lol
But yes, the second I read the Smarties reference I was like "ooh she's Canadian!" and promptly started looking for words spelled in British English lol
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Your Smarties look way better than our Smarties! Also, Crush Pink Cream Soda? I may need to move to Canada!
Come for the cream soda, stay for the free healthcare LOL
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Come for the cream soda, stay for the free healthcare LOL
LOL Right?
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But there's no Code Red there :(.
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I guess I could use the money saved on health insurance to import a steady supply of Code Red?
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Hmm you make a good point. My only other problem is I know I'd never be able to handle the cold. I don't have a clue how you guys do it lol.
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Hmm you make a good point. My only other problem is I know I'd never be able to handle the cold. I don't have a clue how you guys do it lol.
Haha!! Rose, it's not THAT cold. Although, I suppose it depends on where in Canada you live. If you live in southern Ontario with the majority of us then it's not sooo bad. You just need to invest in a good-quality toque. ;)
Also, are you guys talking about Code Red Mountain Dew?? Every year all of the different Dew flavours appear in stores for a few months and we have a contest to determine which flavour will stick around for the rest of the year. LOL So, you could always just stock up on the Red stuff once a year. :P Personally, I would take pink cream soda over any kind of Mountain Dew any day!!
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Haha!! Rose, it's not THAT cold. Although, I suppose it depends on where in Canada you live. If you live in southern Ontario with the majority of us then it's not sooo bad.
Oh no. You're Upper Canadian? Just when I thought we could be pals... LOL
As much as I enjoy talking about Canada... Top Ten...aaaand GO!
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Actually this is the reading challenge thread lol FAIL!
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Actually this is the reading challenge thread lol FAIL!
Damnit. I have ONE JOB! Lol
Aaaand reading challenge....G O!
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LOL better!
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Haha!! Rose, it's not THAT cold. Although, I suppose it depends on where in Canada you live. If you live in southern Ontario with the majority of us then it's not sooo bad. You just need to invest in a good-quality toque. ;)
Also, are you guys talking about Code Red Mountain Dew?? Every year all of the different Dew flavours appear in stores for a few months and we have a contest to determine which flavour will stick around for the rest of the year. LOL So, you could always just stock up on the Red stuff once a year. :P Personally, I would take pink cream soda over any kind of Mountain Dew any day!!
Yes, Code Red Mountain Dew is the best! That's good to know that you at least get to have it once a year. Pink cream soda does sound amazing.
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Happy check in Saturday!
Just a reminder that by July 15th, everyone who was reading one story at a time should have completed their first one, including the final survey and reader's surveys and should start reading their second one. People reading two at once should have both halfway there surveys completed.
The following people have already met this deadline and deserve cookies and ice cream!
Tracy (Happy Birthday by the way)
Mare
Rose
Emily
Carter
Steph
Julilly
Erika
YAY!!
Everyone else, you have until the 15th! You can do it!!
Friendly reminders time lol
Ritz and freedomwriter - haven't read anything since 6/25. You might want to pick up a little bit.
freedomwriter, Emily and Steph - don't forget to respond to your reviews. (Even if they were just posted yesterday as in your case Emily, it's just that today is reminder day. I'm not That anal! lmao)
I think that's about it. Just keep on keeping on! And I hope everyone is enjoying themselves!
I know I'm loving reading your surveys and feedback to one another! :)
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ice cream sounds good mare..its been hot here in Missouri ;) (now to find a way to sneak ice cream without waking up the whole house ;) )
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Yay cookies and ice cream. And thanks for the birthday wishes Mare. Had the best birthday I've had in quite a while.
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Mmm cookies and ice cream :)
I responded to the reviews, but as it's a collab, I've only responded to the chapters I wrote. Sorry I didn't see before now, I've changed my email address and then just updated it on here.
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I figured you weren't getting the notifications because that wasn't like you to not respond. lol
Collabs are a slippery slope which is why I think next year I'm making a new rule saying you can only submit a collab only if both authors are participating. We learn as we go. lol
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Which brings me to one of those dilemmas because Steph you responded to all the reviews that in your table of contents says Lore has written so now I'm really really confused. Since Lore decided not to do this challenge, I kind of wanted to give your chapters the more detailed reviews so if you could clarify that would be great. For instance, it says chapter one was written by you but you answered feedback for chapter two? so on and so forth. LOL Did you write all the even ones and Lore wrote all the odd ones?
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I know it's not Saturday but I'm checking in early because the deadline of the 15th is looming.
Just giving those people a head's up with how far they have to go before they reach this first goal.
carterkid: You need to read 6 more chapters of Fly Fishing to make it to the 15th. (If you read one chapter a day you'd make it easily!)
Kyrie: You only need to read one more chapter of Gone Country to make your goal!
freedomwriter: You have about 33 chapters of Undead to read before hitting your goal (If you did about 5 chapters a day at this point, you'd make it.)
Ritz: You need to read 15 chapters before hitting your goal on Falling In Love Again. (If you did two chapters a day and one three you'd make it)
So there ya go! A lesson in procrastinatio n for you lol Honestly, for those of you struggling, if you just limit yourself to one chapter a day it's not overwhelming, takes about ten minutes more or less of your time and then you're done for the day. When you wait until the last minute ^ that is what happens.
I hope you guys make it! As I'm sure the people whose stories you are reading feel the same way!
:) Told you all I would be here to kick you in the pants! I do not lie!! lol
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Ritz is reading Falling in Love Again. Tracy's reading Forever.
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Thanks! I fixed it! :)
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Just in case I'm on any of your reminder lists, Mare, I'm not likely to get any reading done this week given the circumstances.
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Your power still down?
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Just in case I'm on any of your reminder lists, Mare, I'm not likely to get any reading done this week given the circumstances.
You're not lol I would have told you if you were. And yup, Rose. She still has no power!
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Geeze that sucks! I'd be going insane lol.
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Name of story: Gone Country by Carter
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Very, Carter is very clear about where she’s going with the story and I can understand what’s going on.
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? Brian. He has been amazing with Jordan and supporting her. He wants to love her but he’s willing to give her space and time to figure out what she wants.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) I have no idea where it is going to end but I am hoping that Jordan will make the right choices!
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? It’s very clear and so far exactly what she described.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? I was a little surprised when Jordan’s boyfriend showed up. He didn’t seem very invested in their relationship and was really a jerk to her.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. Yes, I like the plot line and love the music choices.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) I noticed a couple of places where pieces of the story might have been left out but totally understand why it happened.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? I probably will when I’m done!
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Thank you Rose for answering my question and I apologize for not doing it sooner! :-)
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It's okay! I'll answer anything, I like getting questions on stories.
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Yay Kyrie! Now you get some cookies and ice cream too!
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*snicker*
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Which brings me to one of those dilemmas because Steph you responded to all the reviews that in your table of contents says Lore has written so now I'm really really confused. Since Lore decided not to do this challenge, I kind of wanted to give your chapters the more detailed reviews so if you could clarify that would be great. For instance, it says chapter one was written by you but you answered feedback for chapter two? so on and so forth. LOL Did you write all the even ones and Lore wrote all the odd ones?
Yeah sorry about the confusion on this Mare but yes she wrote the even chapters and I wrote the odd ones, don't look at the name of the person who posted because we just posted not paying attention to who wrote what chapter.
And I meant to sign up for this and then *BOOM* sign ups were over before I realized it. :( my life moves so quickly lately.
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Aww, you can always pick a story from the other thread and do the challenge on your own. There's still a few stories that weren't chosen. :) The second half of the challenge is happening on the 15th. That's when everyone is starting to read their second story.
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Which brings me to one of those dilemmas because Steph you responded to all the reviews that in your table of contents says Lore has written so now I'm really really confused. Since Lore decided not to do this challenge, I kind of wanted to give your chapters the more detailed reviews so if you could clarify that would be great. For instance, it says chapter one was written by you but you answered feedback for chapter two? so on and so forth. LOL Did you write all the even ones and Lore wrote all the odd ones?
Yes, we took it in turns writing and posted each others chapters. Hope I haven't confused things too much :)
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I get it now, thanks Steph! So whenever Lore's name is on it, you wrote it and so on...
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Yes, that's right, and we'll be back with new updates shortly I hope :)
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I get it now, thanks Steph! So whenever Lore's name is on it, you wrote it and so on...
not quite..... there are a few times that we posted 2 chapters in a row so my name is twice but one of those chapters is mine. Easier to remember that she wrote the even and I wrote the odd numbered chapters
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Okay lol
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Did we? I completely forgot lol, yes listen to Lore
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we did Steph I looked earlier when I was talking to Mare on twitter about it. HA!
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Name of story: Dangers of Fluttering
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? yes
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? I would have to say Nick so far he is really the only character that has been introduced that I have gotten to really know :)
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) right now I'd say anything can happen since this story is unfinished.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? yes
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? other than trying to figure out who Roland was and why he wants with Brian.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. Maybe? Idk...not really into sci-fy stuff to be honest. But since this story is very well written I probably would have continued,
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) nope.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? not at this time no
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Thanks Mare! Can I get chocolate? LOL :-)
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Yup! chocolate it coming your way! lol
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Happy check in Saturday!!
We are about halfway through the summer now (AHHH!! Slow down summer...) And everyone has been doing great with this challenge.
Starting this week, everyone should start on their second story meaning there should be an *on the second story you are reading. Other than that no friendly reminders except for the trio that has not finished yet. I haven't checked but just remember to respond to your reviews yada yada yada... I'll get on you guys next weekend. I'm more focused on these guys below! You know how important deadlines are to the anal! So make it happen! LOL
Krie: Completed her goal *gives her cookies and ice cream.* Well done! :)
carterkid: Four more chapters until you reach your goal! Still a chapter a day will get you there, on that day. Including today.
freedomwriter: Eleven more chapters until you reach your goal! I'm very impressed. I know you had a lot to read! You go on with your bad self! 4 chapters a day will do it! Again...majorl y impressed.
Ritz: Seven more chapters until you reach your goal! 3 chapters a day will get you there on that day.
Happy Reading! I'll be back on Monday or Tuesday with some more friendly or more likely forceful pushes if I have to lol :)
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Name of story: Unwinding Truth
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise?
Yes, so far so good.
2) So far who is your favorite character and why?
I would have to say Nick because of his innocence in this story. He's too cute actually lol
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) Not really sure at the moment.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? It definitely draws you in and makes you want to read it.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations?
Not as of yet.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why.
Most likely. I don't' mind sci-fi at all. In fact I enjoy reading it, but the AU element is what I'm not a fan of and the fact that some of the boys (one for sure) is way out of character makes it hard to read as a BSB fic. So, I'm tackling it more as if it's an OF but it's hard to do that as well because two of them aren't quite as out of character. I think it's a good story, but for me not really a BSB fic.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of)
No, the mechanics are fantastic.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot?
Nothing that I haven't already asked within the reviews of the story.
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Deadline is tomorrow! I know you guys can so this!!
carterkid
freedomwriter
Ritz
Finish up today!!
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I'm here now, Mare! :)
Name of story: Falling In Love Again
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? yes
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? Annie. She has a good sense of humour, strong and independent.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) Yes. A happy ending for Nick and Annie, but I'm excited to see how that will happen.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? Well, based from the summary, I thought Brian is separated from Leighanne, and he likes Annie but Annie will fall in love with Nick. That's why I was surprised when Leighanne appeared in the story as a loving wife. :)
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? Emily is good in describing things. It makes you feel like you are part of the story, and you see them like a movie.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. No. I'd continue, but maybe not regularly as I am really busy. This might feel like an assignment to me because of the time deadline, but I am enjoying the story and wish I have more time to read.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) No. But at first, I thought it was not realistic for Annie to miss that her friend Tim was Kevin's brother, but Emily explained it further in the next chapters and was able to make it believable (is this even a word? lol)
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? None. I have asked Emily about Annie's character and she answered it through reviews. :)
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YAY Ritz!!!! OKay one down....two to go!
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^where's my cookies and ice cream? *pouts*
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Cookies and ice cream are coming! Late... ;P lol
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Okay Freedomwriter and carterkid, you have until midnight tonight EST to officially meet the deadline to either halfway there or complete.
freedomwriter: you have 12 chapters to go plus the halfway there survey to fill out.
carterkid: all you have to do is fill out the final survey!
If you don't accomplish this mission a huge bolded and bright FAIL! will appear next to your name until you do! You can do this!!! Don't make me come over there!! lol
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Name of story:The Importance of Fly Fishing by Mare
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? Since it was just Nick and Kevin I thought I would get bored with it, I was so wrong.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? I looked forward to reading it
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? I liked a lot of it so I can't really pin it down to one chapter/part.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end?Yes
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? both are/were my favorite
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? The story doesn't really need one but I would read it if it did
7) Were you happy with the ending? yep
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) it didn't have any
9) What was this stories biggest strength? It showed how close the guys are to each other
10) What was it's biggest weakness? I didn't see any
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? I have read other stuff by Mare already
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one?
As I said before, it showed how close the guys are to each other and how Kevin is so 'big brother' in the group. You also learn a little of Nick's family life
13) Did the author respond to your feedback?yes
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?nope, I asked the questions in the reviews
Sorry it wasn't filled out, That's what you get for trying to do two things at once
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Chris, you left just about the entire survey blank. It doesn't count as complete (or helpful) if you just paste a mostly blank survey. lol
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: The Importance of Fly Fishing
Person reading it: carterkid
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?
I didn't really have any. I know she's a fan of Kevin and Nick so I was hoping she'd enjoy it.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?
She left something for every chapter but it was more of the "good job" "Oh no!" type kind so no, unfortunately, not very helpful lol
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?
I did go back and read one chapter that Chris was confused about and I also want to read the second to last one based on what she said.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story?
Did it meet your expectations?
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one?
Chris was very nice.
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Name of story: First Impressions by Kyrie
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? The chapters were so short that my biggest challenge was not reading the whole thing in one sitting!! I seriously had to stop myself from clicking 'next' after reading four or five chapters in a row.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? I found myself wondering how things were going to play out, so it definitely did not feel like homework.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? I actually liked the ending (the very last chapter that was written as if it was a note from Kat).
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Yes, I was still enjoying AJ's character at the end. Although, I was also loving Nick by the end of the story too - he was always good for a bit of comic relief.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? Denise. The fact that she was constantly coming around and offering her advice was starting to annoy me by the end. She clearly needed to learn when to butt out.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? There is already a sequel to this story and, yes, I am interested to check it out.
7) Were you happy with the ending? Yes. Although it was not a "fairy tale" ending, I thought that it was appropriate for how the story had been progressing.
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) I don't think that I was surprised by anything in the story. Kyrie did a good job of foreshadowing what was to come.
9) What was this stories biggest strength? The dialogue.
10) What was it's biggest weakness? The amount of description (or lack thereof). I mentioned to Kyrie in a review that her writing almost reads like a script because it is so dialogue heavy. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, I tend to enjoy stories with a bit more description.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? I have started to read Kyrie's most recent submission and there has been a definite improvement in her writing from this story to her most recent one.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? Overall, this was a pretty typical romance story and the plot did move very quickly. However, Kyrie interjected bits of humour with Nick's character that I found pretty endearing. As a result, I kept my comments mostly plot related, I did touch on her writing style.
13) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yup!
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? Not at this point. :P
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: A Dash of Cinnamon
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story?
The fact that it's a Brian-centered story was a challenge for me. If there hadn't have been the Nick/Group component to go along with it, I don't think I would have had nearly as much interest as I ended up having, though.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework?
I enjoyed the beginning a lot, I waned a bit in the middle but when things really got going near the end I powered through the last couple of chapters. I kept hitting next and had to go back and review because I wanted to see how it ended.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story?
It's going to be typical of me to say this given my fandom preferences, but my favourite scene was in chapter 33 when Nick went to bat for Brian. His friend was at risk of having his forbidden relationship found out and he went above and beyond, without concern for what people would think or say about him, to protect him. I just liked that whole sequence as a group scene, also with Howie trying to get over the fence and AJ flipping out.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end?
I really felt for Brian at the beginning but I didn't like him as much at the end. Sure, it was a happy ending but I felt like the process to get to that point was a bit selfish since he was totally willing to put his child's future with him on the line for a woman.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why?
Leighanne lol
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it?
If I were a Brian fan, I'd eat it up. As for me, I probably would only find myself reading it for challenge purposes.
7) Were you happy with the ending?
Yeah, I was. It didn't look like it was all going to work out at first because things did really go downhill. I was happy to see that all the conflicts that were presented were concluded and nothing was left hanging.
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one)
I guess from the story's perspective the fact that Kayla is Canadian is meant to have a big reveal, but I saw hints of that dropped along the way and had figured it out before it was disclosed. For me though, the biggest surprise in the story was that she found Nick SO REPULSIVE. Should get her some glasses! :P
9) What was this stories biggest strength?
The writing, for sure. There was a very clear story arc throughout and the transitions were really smooth as it moved from introduction into conflict and resolution.
10) What was it's biggest weakness?
This line from the summary: During an on-the-road visit, the unsettling background of one C.P.S. worker results in a disappointing revelation for Nick and ultimately forces Brian to make a potentially life-changing decision.
I don't think this is a big enough plot point to put that much focus on. I didn't think her background was unsettling as it didn't do anything to change her as a character. It was a piece of her background that didn't play into the plot in a major aspect at all. It was a very minor point and I don't think specifically the unsettling revelation was what lead Brian to make the life-changing decision, it was everything else that was happening.
Perhaps you wanted that plot point to be a pivotal point, but I think there were so many larger issues that it kind of gets lost in it all.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author?
Absolutely, I think she's a great writer!
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one?
As I said in my review, I wish I had been able to provide more constructive feedback but there wasn't much I could say. If you're a Brian fan looking for a good Brian romance and a side of bromance, this would undoubtedly be on high on the list.
A lot of us (myself included) fall into a rut of focusing on one BSB and maybe throwing in another just to remind everyone they're in the group but this story really did a great job of embracing all of them and highlighting them all really well, not just Brian.
13) Did the author respond to your feedback?
She did! I just left a whole bunch though, so I'm sure she'll reply to it later :P
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?
If you were to go back and change one thing about this story, what and why?
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: Forever by emily_michele
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? Not binge reading because I tend to do that with large stories lol
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? I would look forward to reading a few chapters here and there when I could.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? I really liked the part where Carson Daly was making egg salad in the kitchen while the boys and a very Pregnant Amelia were hiding in another room. It was great seeing all the guys together and it was cute. Plus Carson just made things really awkward and it was hilarious.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? I actually grew to like Howie which is very rare for me to do.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? Carson Daly. He's a creep lmao
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? Its not finished get but yes I would.
7) Were you happy with the ending? It isn't finished yet :( lol
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) Kevin getting Amelia pregnant and Nick getting married to Chrissy in Vegas.
9) What was this stories biggest strength? It has a lot of nostalgia for the 1999 time period that I love. I love old school stories. It reminds me of something I would read when I was in high school discovering fanfic for the first time.
10) What was it's biggest weakness? The chapters were kinda short and the story is long. But its well written so I don't mind.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? Yes it did :)
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I picked this because I always choose something that I wouldn't normally read. I dont normally read romance so it was a bit different, not to mention a NSYNCer as a romantic interest.
13) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yes she did. I love authors that reply to feedback. I have made friends that way.
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? I had fun chatting with you about the story and hope you eventually finish it!
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For me though, the biggest surprise in the story was that she found Nick SO REPULSIVE. Should get her some glasses! :P
Bahahahaha! Too funny!! Although, I think her eyesight is just fine. :P
If you were to go back and change one thing about this story, what and why?
I have to agree with you in the sense that I would change the whole bit about Kayla's background. When I was first writing the story, I had a different idea/outcome in my mind and then I changed my mind halfway through. Unfortunately, I had already posted the chapter with her background reveal when I decided to go in another direction, so I had to leave it in. Quite honestly, I don't remember what I had in mind originally so I can't even comment about what it was that I was planning to achieve aside from the fact that her background was supposed to play a more critical role in the story. It definitely helped me learn my lesson about posting chapters when I don't already have the next one (or two) already written.
Thanks so much for the feedback! I'm glad that you weren't bored to tears with the Brian focus. ;) I seem to have a lot of reviews waiting for me ... I didn't even know that you had finished reading the story until I saw the survey!
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Thank you for all the kind words Keep This Secret! I have been taking the feedback and working into my newest story, hopefully well! LOL I know it was kind of like reading a script at certain points and that can very annoying to some people. I'm glad you were able to get through it and I look forward to you trying out the sequel and letting me know how things look in the new story!
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Welcome to check in Saturday!
Not a lot to say really, except everyone should now be reading their second story, so carterkid and Ritz you want to get on that.
freedomwriter you really need to finish up those chapters and just continue barreling on, we still need your halfway there survey. So I can take that huge FAIL sign down next to your name! lol
The next deadline some of you need to hit will be Saturday August 9th. By then everyone reading only one story at a time should have filled out their halfway there survey for the second story they are reading. Most of us have already done that because we rock! So this deadline is for:
carterkid
Rose
Emily
Ritz
People who have been reading two stories at once, might want to use that as a date to maybe finish one of the ones you are reading. It's the halfway point to the end of the challenge.
Friendly reminders:
Emily, Erika and Kyrie - you guys all need to fill out your reader surveys for the stories you have gotten reviews on that are completed for the challenge. Forever, Dash of Cinnamon and First Impressions
Okay well have fun reading! I will not be here next Saturday so no bugging will occur! Enjoy that!! :) lol
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August? No biggie :)
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I wil hopefully be reading this weekend my internet company has been doing maintenance all night...so all i have is my phone and its hard to read on a tiny screen LOL
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^Mare, August 9 is my birthday, am I entitled to an extension? lol
So to make it clear, by August 9 I should be done reading Emily's story and your ten one-shot?
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^ No, you should be done with Emily's story by that date. Consider it a birthday gift to be completely done with one story!
:)
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story:
Person reading it: Tracy/DelphinaCarter
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?
I wasn't sure what to think. She hadn't read any of my stuff before, and I knew this wasn't really "up her alley" fanfic-wise. I know that's part of the challenge sometimes, but it's hard to know what to expect when someone's reading a genre they aren't a big fan of.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? Yes.
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? Only on a couple chapters when I wasn't sure exactly what she was talking about.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? Not really. I think we communicated pretty well through the reviews and responses.
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? It was good! I enjoyed it.
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: Gone Country by Carter
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? It was very easy to read and I had to hold back and do some of the reading at a time.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? I looked forward to it, I really wanted to find out what happened to Brian and Jordan.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? The ending where Carter summarized what was going on in Jordan and Brian’s lives
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Brian continued to be my favorite the whole way through! I love the way he interacted with Jordan and how he responded to difficult times
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? Brian’s ex-wife, she was a prize. She thought she could come waltzing back in and disrupt Brian’s life. I was so glad when Jordan told her off
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? Absolutely!
7) Were you happy with the ending? I was although I did tell Carter that I wished I could have read more about what happened between the last chapter and the prologue
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) Brian’s ex-wife coming back and no I definitely didn’t
9) What was this stories biggest strength? Being very easy to read and follow
10) What was it's biggest weakness? Giving more details but I ran into the same problems when I was writing my first ones!
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? Yup, I already read and commented on one but there were another couple that I wanted to read
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I enjoyed the story and thought Carter did a great job of putting it together with the backdrop of country music.
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better? I didn’t participate last year so I don’t really know
14) Did the author respond to your feedback? Every time!
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? Not that I can think of
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story:First Impressions
Person reading it: KeepThisSecret
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? I was excited. I had read two of her stories previously and thought she did a terrific job on both with both. I was looking forward to hearing her thoughts on my writing.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? She left me a terrific amount of feedback, more than I was used to getting. It was very helpful as I struggled with the issues she brought up and I’m trying to use it in my current story as well as any going forward.
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? I did go back and read it. I almost wish I could edit it and add more!
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? No, I think she answered all of them.
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? A very good one! I appreciate all the time she took to read and review it and I hope if she gets the chance to read the sequel, she can leave me some more feedback!
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Gone Country isn't by me lol. :)
I just noticed it in your survey Kyrie.
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Sorry!!! It was all my mistake!
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Lol it's okay! I found it funny. I'm too prolific as it is without help :p
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Story: Gone Country
Person reading it: Kyrie
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? a little nervous because its an older story of mine.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? yes she did :)
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? yes, because its from 2006 and that seems like forever ago lol. I wrote it while i was pregnant with my son.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? none that I can think of.
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? It was a good experience. I am glad she liked the element of the story. I have been meaning to write another one like it but there are wayyy too many song choices these days ;)
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Carter - I would be excited to read another one! I can go through some CDs and pick out some songs! LOL
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: Walked Out Of My Dreams by Rose
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? There wasn’t really a challenge with Rose’s story although I did have to go looking for the place she used! LOL
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? I was looking forward to it. I really wanted to find out what was in store for Brian/Brendan.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? The scene where Brian finally reunites with Baylee.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? No, it actually changed to Brian. The last few chapters had me absorbed in seeing how he felt and I think that’s why it changed.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? I hate to do this because she was so nice but Carlie. I just didn’t feel like they clicked and I wasn’t all that sad to see him leave without her.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? Absolutely, sign me up!
7) Were you happy with the ending? Yes, I was hoping that Brian would get back to being himself before it ended and I was glad Rose did it that way.
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) I think the biggest surprise was when Brian woke up and remembered who he was. I hoped it might come at some point but it was quicker than I thought.
9) What was this stories biggest strength? I don’t think it’s the story’s strength but Rose’s strength. Sometimes when you read stories told from different points of view, there is difficulty telling who’s perspective you’re reading. Rose made it very easy to distinguish the chapters told by Brian and those told by Nick. It’s a hard skill and she does a great job with it.
10) What was it's biggest weakness? I didn’t see any
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? Yup
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I enjoyed how the story flowed and how much emotion Rose was able to bring up through the telling.
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better? I didn’t participate last year so I don’t really know but I did enjoy it!
14) Did the author respond to your feedback? Every time
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? Nope
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Awww thank you! I always second guess myself when I write in first person cause I'm always wondering if it's distinctive enough. Or believable LOL.
It's funny Carlie was never supposed to click with Brian. Everything about it is wrong and in my head it's sort of what helps trigger (or start triggering) Brian's memories even if it's only in his dreams.
As for the actual disorder, it's actually that fast. You literally wake up with no memory of who your alter ego (essentially) was but with all of your own memories back. Dissociative Fugue is a really strange phenomenon.
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: Walked Out Of My Dreams
Person reading it: Kyrie
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?
I was looking forward to it because as far I knew she'd never read any of my stories before. I'm always excited about fresh readers and what their thoughts might be on my work.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?
She absolutely left a great amount of feedback. And it really helped motivate me back into writing. This whole challenge did for that matter.
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?
I did at times cause there's always little things I forgot or forgot what happens when LOL.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story?
No, I think she communicated her thoughts pretty well.
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one?
Good! I enjoyed getting the feedback and having it sort of shove me back into actively writing.
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Carter - I would be excited to read another one! I can go through some CDs and pick out some songs! LOL
I can give it a try :) i bet we have the same kind of country music collection ;)
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Story: A Dash of Cinnamon
Person reading it: Julilly
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? Seeing as how Julilly is a "veteran" on this site, I was pretty excited to see that she had picked my story for the challenge. I knew that she would probably provide some good feedback.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? Yup!
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? Yes, mostly because I couldn't remember the details of each chapter. :P
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? Not that I can think of at the moment.
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? It was a good experience for me. She gave me some good positive feedback as well as some concrit. It's always nice to get an honest opinion on your writing. I seriously hope that she checks out one of my stories again ... one that is not a romance and that doesn't put her to sleep. :D
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Carter - We probably do! I would definitely help you out if you wanted to try it again!
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Name of story: Jizzle of OZ
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Yes, very much
2) So far who is your favorite character and why?Nick
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) It'll end like the wizard of OZ lol
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? It's just right for the story
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? No plot twist
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. no, I was planning to read this anyhow
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) just on one chapter so far I told the author and she's going to fix it
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? nope
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Carter - We probably do! I would definitely help you out if you wanted to try it again!
Id love to try it again. There are so many different songs out there now.
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Story: Jizzle Of Oz
Person reading it: Carterkid
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? I knew that I would get general and short reviews like a normal person was reading.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?
She left feedback on every chapter but it was very short, not very detailed.
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? No just for one chapter that had a small typo.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? No but I hope you enjoyed it.
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? It wasn't bad but I was disappointed. she read it in one day and didn't give detailed feedback. However I am pleased that she enjoyed the story.
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hold on while I hide in shame :( Oh gosh, my first challenge, and I'm already screwing up.
I'm almost halfway through the story (like 5 chapters short) So lemme do the survey now (and do it good)
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Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story: Song for the Undead
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise?
Yes! Although there are multiple characters telling their stories along the way, it's fantastic to see it all coming together.
2) So far who is your favorite character and why?
Brian. Because... well... I'm still a Brian girl XD. And you've really tortured him in this particular story. Love me some Brian torture. (does that make me a bad person? Maybe a little)
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be)
I don't think the story has ended yet, as it's still being updated and so. Anyway, as it was clearly based on one of my fave Stephen King books, I hope the story keeps that storyline mainly. I can't remember how the book ended though. I might need to read it again (after I finish this story 'f course!)
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit?
I feel like it fits perfectly. Not too much is given away, and not too much is held back. I like descriptive summaries that tell you what the story is about without disclosing the entire plot
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations?
Not really. I suppose the dead coming back to life was meant to be a big plot-twist, but the title of the story gives that bit away. I have heard that the story was originally called something else, without giving that info...
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why.
Nope I wouldn't stop, it's generally very well-written and I really like it. I do notice that I'm more 'attracted' to certain characters than others, so that I'm skimming through the persons I like a little less, but I think that's too be expected in any story with multiple POVs
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of)
Not to my knowledge. But my knowledge of zombie infested America only reaches so far.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot?
Not at the moment ^^
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Originally we had titled the story 4.15.12 so they the dead rising was a major shock. Then we swapped the titles lol.
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hold on while I hide in shame :( Oh gosh, my first challenge, and I'm already screwing up.
I'm almost halfway through the story (like 5 chapters short) So lemme do the survey now (and do it good)
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Halfway there survey (Only to be completed once you have gotten at least halfway through your story)
Name of story: Song for the Undead
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise?
Yes! Although there are multiple characters telling their stories along the way, it's fantastic to see it all coming together.
2) So far who is your favorite character and why?
Brian. Because... well... I'm still a Brian girl XD. And you've really tortured him in this particular story. Love me some Brian torture. (does that make me a bad person? Maybe a little)
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be)
I don't think the story has ended yet, as it's still being updated and so. Anyway, as it was clearly based on one of my fave Stephen King books, I hope the story keeps that storyline mainly. I can't remember how the book ended though. I might need to read it again (after I finish this story 'f course!)
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit?
I feel like it fits perfectly. Not too much is given away, and not too much is held back. I like descriptive summaries that tell you what the story is about without disclosing the entire plot
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations?
Not really. I suppose the dead coming back to life was meant to be a big plot-twist, but the title of the story gives that bit away. I have heard that the story was originally called something else, without giving that info...
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why.
Nope I wouldn't stop, it's generally very well-written and I really like it. I do notice that I'm more 'attracted' to certain characters than others, so that I'm skimming through the persons I like a little less, but I think that's too be expected in any story with multiple POVs
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of)
Not to my knowledge. But my knowledge of zombie infested America only reaches so far.
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot?
Not at the moment ^^
Once you get to the actual halfway point I'll remove that fail sign, but be aware as of right now I did ask all the people who are reading your stories to stop until further notice. Once you get caught up on answering your feedback & reading then they'll continue on.
Sorry. I call it tough love! It is unfair to the people who are reading your stuff because there is very little reciprocation so while you're getting all this great concrit & feedback, they are getting barely anything in return. Glad to see you did read another chapter though. :)
Also carterkid, don't forget to fill out the final survey even though Tracy beat you to the reading survey.
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Name of story: Jizzle of OZ
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? It wasn't a challenge at all as I enjoyed it
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? It didn't feel like homework at all!
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? when Nick is caught and his friends are breaking him out
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Yes
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? Paris,cause she's the witch lol
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? Yes
7) Were you happy with the ending? Yes
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) Nope, No surprise
9) What was this stories biggest strength? it had a lot of detail
10) What was it's biggest weakness? to short maybe, She could have added more of her own turns
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? Yes
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I would say she got the details of the movie wizard of oz spot on
13) Did you prefer the way we did the challenge this year or did you like the pairings better? I'm ok whichever way.
14) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yes, she did.
15) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? no
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Happy check-in Monday! LOL It doesn't have the same ring to it as Saturday.
Not much to say, just keep reading, reviewing and responding to your reviews.
Congrats to carterkid, DelphinaCarter, Kyrie, KeepThisSecret and Carter-Orange who have all completed this challenge! You are all awesome and we aspire to be you one day! :) lol
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Thanks Mare, Your awesome too!
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i dont think I will ever get my story done unless she reviews lol..but the chances are looking slim to none.
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I am going to give you guys options as far as that's concerned. I'm not giving up on her yet.
If she still hasn't reviewed (more than one chapter) or responded to a fair amount of reviews by August 9th. I'm going to go ahead and let you guys do your completed survey and just stop where you were. Since none of her stories you guys are reading are completed anyway, it doesn't matter to me if you read all the chapters that are posted, especially if she's not going to do her part.
If however, you want to continue reading that's fine. It's up to you. I'm just not going to force you to.
Like I said, I am going to give her the benefit of the doubt and hope she comes in and does what she signed up for. We shall see what happens!
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I'm hoping she does. Like you I wanna give her the benefit of the doubt. :)
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yeah I am kinda sticking around and waiting it out myself as well. I keep checking back to see if she has responded but nothing. I only check every couple of days or when i see her post a new chapter on a story she is writing or something.
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: Unwinding Truth
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story?
I knew it was going to be hard just because it was not only an AU but also a sci-fi story. Those two are probably my least favorite genres to read next to romance. I also knew it wasn't completed and hadn't been updated in quite a while which was another fear. Luckily this sparked them to update again. I hope they continue because people who love those two genres would really enjoy this one!
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework?
It didn't feel like homework as long as I stuck to my reading first thing in the morning plan. lol otherwise no matter what I read feels like homework. I have no clue why!
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story?
Not one chapter or scene per say but more the general reactions of how AJ, Nick and Emma felt as they tried things for the first time. Both Lore and Steph did a great job with that.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end?
If I said Nick, then yes.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why?
AJ, turned out to be a junior high mean girl trapped in the body of a 30 year old man!
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it?
This story isn't finished yet. Let's be done with this one before we talk about another one. lol
7) Were you happy with the ending?
The one I made up in my head, yes very! LOL
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one)
Just how mean and out of character Brian was from the start.
9) What was this stories biggest strength?
Definitely the descriptions and the world that the girls created. My favorite scenes like I said above had to do with how the three characters from Endwise perceived things for the first time, but also the actual town they had escaped to and Endwise itself were all very creative ideas.
10) What was it's biggest weakness?
I would say character development was an issue at times. I never really felt fully engaged with the characters (like Emma or AJ, Brian and Howie) because even though I knew some of their back stories at times I felt like there was still something missing. Felt like that with the plot at times too. I know its not complete but I think the overall pacing of the story had to do with this.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author?
I have read quite a few by Steph and I would definitely try a non AU from Lore someday.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one?
Both of these ladies were very good with their mechanics, so as I read I just kind of asked questions when I felt like there were plot holes or something was too confusing and tried to give concrit from the POV of someone who maybe doesn't really read AU's or sci-fi all that often. Which is me, I guess. LOL
13) Did the author respond to your feedback?
Yes, they both did.
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?
Just wondering why they went so out of character with Brian, Howie and now possibly AJ.
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The only thing I can say is I hope you might read this when we complete it, some light might be shed on the comments in regard to the three characters that are out of character. There is some definite things planned in the story that could possibly explain to you what our brains were doing.
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What your brains were doing? LOL
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I think we wanted to make Brian the complete opposite of how he really is, but he may or may not have his reasons for being that way lol.
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we just took his strong beliefs and made it, "what if he was taught to have strong beliefs in the bad" *shrugs* There I said it... lol....
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Name of story: Falling In Love by Emily_Michele
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? Time. I don't have time to read fanfics as I used to before. I actually get to finish this by reading one or two chapters while riding the train to work.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? I am actually excited to read. It just felt like a homework cause of the deadline, which I met by the way. lol
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? Too many. But I like that one chapter while in the cruise and the boys are in the table having breakfast, lunch or dinner, I can't remember. lol And also the romantic and cute chapters. Plus AJ's women-they-talk conversation with Nick. Emily has a great sense of humour and I enjoyed those funny moments.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Yes. I still like Nick and Annie.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? There's not many characters in the story. But probably, Lauren? Just because she wants to abort the baby.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? Yes! Actually, Run is already on my to read list.
7) Were you happy with the ending? Absolutely.
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) That Brian has no romantic thing for Annie? lol
9) What was this stories biggest strength? Emily's way of describing the scenes. She describes perfectly even the smallest details. Those things that the story can still be great without it but since she added those, the story became better. She even have those slow chapters, those that nothing important happened. It was just the characters talking to each other but not boring at all. Sorry, I can't express my thoughts well.
10) What was it's biggest weakness? None. I would say that it's long but every scenes are vital part of story to build the romantic ending for Nick and Annie.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? Definitely. I love writers who are good in descriptions.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? This story is good for those who are suckers for romance. Emily is a great writer, and it is romance with sense of humour. It's not the kind of story that's full of I love yous but you can feel how much the characters care for each other.
13) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yes. I actually look forward to her response.
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? You are now one of my favorite writers. :)
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Mare, I met my deadline. Now, all I have to do is finish your one shots and answer the surveys. Do I need to post halfway there when I finished 5?
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Because you're reading a bunch of short stories instead of one, just skip the halfway there survey for now. I'll make a short story version of the surveys when my computer decides to cooperate. Yay for making the deadline! (With plenty of time to spare!)
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:bananapower: :wave:
Yay! I told you, I don't want to disappoint you. And I have plans of joining the 2015 reading challenge (with a new story, I hope), so I want to maintain a good track record. lol
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Excellent! Lol
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we just took his strong beliefs and made it, "what if he was taught to have strong beliefs in the bad" *shrugs* There I said it... lol....
Thanks for the explaination, girls!
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Halfway There Survey for short stories:
Name of Author who wrote the stories:
1) Are you finding the stories easy to follow?
2) Which of the stories you have read tend to be your favorite at the moment and why?
3) Do you feel like the summaries have accurately described what the stories were about?
4) Which of the stories has surprised you the most and why?
5) If this wasn't for a challenge, would have still continued to read the stories?
6) If there a story you did not enjoy from this batch?
7) Have there been any glaring errors that have stuck out?
8) Do you have questions for the author in regard to any of the story lines, characters or plots?
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Check in Saturday!
Hello everyone!! Hope you guys are enjoying what little remains of the summer. I know in a few weeks I'll be getting busy with back to school things. :(
Just some friendly reminders:
Steph - Don't forget to respond to your reviews of Save a Prayer and your reader's survey for Unwinding Truth
Emily - in between pushes lol don't forget to do your reader's survey for Falling in Love Again
Freedomwriter - You have until August 9th to get to at least chapter 50 of Undead and to respond to all your unanswered reviews. If you miss that one, I'm just going to let everyone write up their final surveys for what they have written without having to continue on. Once you hit 50, I'll take Julilly off hold and then as soon as you respond to the other reviews and get at least 10 more chapters read, carter will come off hold. And then finally Rose once you hit chapter 70. They will only have to read up until the end of the month though, and then I'll let them stop since I'm the one making them wait in the first place so the longer it takes you to get moving the less reviews you're going to get.
Ritz and Emily - Just keep reading. I think everyone else is pretty much done and waiting on freedomwriter. :)
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: Unwinding Truth
Person reading it: Mare
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? Well, I know that Mare isn't a fan of AU and sci-fi so I did wonder what she'd think of it and whether she'd hate it lol.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? Yes, Mare left plenty of feedback and brought up a few things that were helpful to Lore and I.
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? Yes, I've completely re-read the story, not just because of the feedback, but because it's incomplete and we hadn't updated in a while (which we are now planning on doing)
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? I can't think of any as Mare asked questions whilst reviewing and we tried our best to answer (even though sometimes I couldn't because I'd forgotten what we'd written)
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? Yes, it was a good experience.
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: Falling in Love Again
Person reading it: Alexzgirl_ritz
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? I really didn't know much about Ritz, as a reader or a writer, but I knew she was pretty active on the site, so I was excited to see her perspective on the story.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? Yes, and yes. It was mainly her response to what was happening in the story, but she did also occasionally comment on the writing, which I appreciate.
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback? Just a few chapters when I really didn't know what she was talking about. lol
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? Not really. She was pretty thorough
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? It was really good! I'm interested to see what she thinks about the sequel if she does in fact read it like she said she plans to.
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See? This is what I'm talking about. I ask people to do stuff and they did! What a concept! Love you both!! lol
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The 9th is getting closer! I hope those of you that need to will make that deadline!
:)
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Ritz, I know you only have two more stories to read. I'm not sure if I'll be able to make a final survey for you because my computer is not working. I will try but if not I'll just add a few questions in here instead. I did post the halfway survey for you at least. Lol
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Halfway There Survey for short stories:
Name of Author who wrote the stories: Mare
1) Are you finding the stories easy to follow? Absolutely.
2) Which of the stories you have read tend to be your favorite at the moment and why? I have finished reading more than half, but I'm gonna talk about the first 6 stories I read. My favorite would be Mirror Image and the Easter bunny story. Mirror Image because I love how Mare wrote AJ and Nick. Loved how Nick was being serious and AJ a smartass. It was a moment I felt was so real. And the Easter Bunny because it was a very short story but full of emotions.
3) Do you feel like the summaries have accurately described what the stories were about? Yes and No. Some summaries just say the story was intended for a challenge, then there are short summaries that completely describes the story.
4) Which of the stories has surprised you the most and why? The Easter Bunny story. It was a very short story and yet convey a very powerful message about growing up, reality, and compassion.
5) If this wasn't for a challenge, would have still continued to read the stories? Yes. I have actually read some of them even before this challenge. And my reviews would definitely show Mare how I enjoyed and love her stories.
6) If there a story you did not enjoy from this batch? None. I loved them all.
7) Have there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? None. Every story was creatively written.
8) Do you have questions for the author in regard to any of the story lines, characters or plots? None. Every story was crystal clear for me. :)
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Hello! It's check in Saturday time again.
Emily had her baby this week so congrats to her & even she managed to meet her deadline by getting to the halfway point of "Save a Prayer" you just need to do your halfway there survey between diaper changes lol
Rose, Jullily & Carter - As far as I'm concerned you can do your final surveys for the stories that I have put on hold. It's up to you if you want to go ahead and finish them or not, but I'm not going to hold you to anything. Your call. And I feel like I need to apologize to you, Rose on behalf of freedomwriter. You did a great job reading and giving feedback to the two stories you picked. I'm sorry that it wasn't completely reciprocated. At least your other readers came through for you. Disappointing, but maybe she will at least try to read the rest whenever?
The take away from this? Don't commit if you don't plan to follow through. It makes you look irresponsible, flaky and somewhat rude and can have an affect on how willing people will be to read your future stories.
Enough lecturing. Everyone else who has not finished reading, you have until the 30 th to get your final surveys done and don't forget about those reader surveys as well. That seems to be the thing everyone forgets about. I'll be back next weekend!
Happy reading!
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Name of story: Dangers of Fluttering by Freedom Writer
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? getting the reading done mostly since the kids were out of school..
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? It was defiantly quite interesting what I read. It was different for me since it was part sci-fi
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? I dont really have one cause I didnt read all the way through stopped at chapter 10
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? I will always *heart* Nick ;)
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? I guess as far as i am into it probably Roland since he seems to be out to get Brian for some reason or another.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? eh maybe idk..this one isnt even finished.
7) Were you happy with the ending? idk...its incomplete
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) nothing stood out to me as far as a surprise
9) What was this stories biggest strength? i would say the storyline. It's a good concept.
10) What was it's biggest weakness? I didnt see any weaknesses
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? I have read quite a few from her already.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I really enjoyed the concept of the story. it was a different story to me since it was sci-fi with time travel in it. But i was enjoying it
13) Did the author respond to your feedback? nope...just i think a few chapters and that was it.
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? nope.
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: Peter's Poisoned Promise
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? Reading it! It got put on hold due to a lack of reading on her end.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? I did, actually.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story? I stopped early in so I didn't really have one yet.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Can't answer cause I didn't get very far
5) Who was your least favorite character and why? Can't answer cause I couldn't get far enough to get a solid grasp on the characters
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it? Not really.
7) Were you happy with the ending? Can't answer, it's not finished and I didn't get that far!
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one) I'm sure there is one but I hadn't reached it yet
9) What was this stories biggest strength? It's interesting
10) What was it's biggest weakness? It's definitely awkward at times but that's because English isn't her first language.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author? Not really, no.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? It was really frustrating reading this. Reviews weren't responded to unless Mare prodded her and then I got asked to stop reading cause she wasn't holding up her end of the deal in this challenge.
13) Did the author respond to your feedback? Some, not all, when Mare kept asking her to.
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? Why did you flake out on this challenge?
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Story: Song For The Undead
Person reading it: freedomwriter
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts? I was happy about getting a new set of eyes on it and seeing what she thought
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you? What feedback she did leave, sure. It helped jump start our inspiration on it. However she didn't even reach the real halfway point of the story chapter wise so it wasn't that helpful.
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?Definitely
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story? Why did you flake out on reading my story?
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one? Good with the other two stories that got read for this challenge. Bad in this case. All flaking out does is make me wonder if it was the story's fault or something.
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Name of story: Save a Prayer
1) Are you finding it easy to follow plot wise? Yes
2) So far who is your favorite character and why? Nick. I like him in the "hero" role whereas he is usually the one that needs saving.
3) Are you getting a sense of how it will end and if so, any guesses? (Sometimes authors get a kick out of seeing what a reader thinks will happen and how predictable they may or may not be) I assume they'll all make it out alive (except for maybe Jordan), but not without a lot more trouble along the way.
4) Do you feel like the summary the author gave accurately describes the story you are reading? Would there be anything you would include or omit? I think the summary is fine.
5) Has there been any big surprises/plot twists or just overall observations? I was surprised to see all the New Kids (sans one of them) die so quickly.
These are the harder questions, but don't be afraid to answer them. Remember we all signed on to this knowing and expecting to get and give constructive criticism.
6) If this wasn't a challenge story and you didn't have to continue reading, would you have stopped already? If so please explain why. No. I would have kept reading, although this is definitely a genre outside of my comfort zone.
7) Has there been any glaring errors that have stuck out? (I'm not talking about the occasional missed period, typo or spelling/grammar errors but huge mistakes that need to be pointed out that the author might not be aware of) Nope
8) Do you have any questions for the author in regard to the storyline, characters or plot? Not a question, really, but so far I feel like the guys have been characterize pretty well based on their actions and reactions, but I'm interested to see if we get a little more "bromantic" towards the end.
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: The Road That Leads To Who Knows Where
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story?
Reading it. :/
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework?
At first I looked forward to it because the premise seemed really interesting but my enthusiasm quickly waned and in the end it felt like homework for what I did read.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story?
Can't say I have one, there wasn't really a memorable moment that stuck out for me.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end?
I didn't have a favourite character. The story jumped around so much it didn't really take time to do much in the way of character development.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why?
Again, I have no idea.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it?
Not if it's done in the same style as this one, where each chapter is told from a half dozen repetitive perspectives.
7) Were you happy with the ending?
I only read to chapter 22 and it's incomplete, so I can't say
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one)
There wasn't one. In the 22 chapters I read, not a whole lot happened because it was really just a couple of scenes told from multiple perspectives.
9) What was this stories biggest strength?
The premise is really promising, I think the idea has a lot of potential.
10) What was it's biggest weakness?
The repetition. Way too many chapters did absolutely nothing to advance the plot. In reply to some of my reviews expressing that the author simply said "Yeah, another filler. We'll get there...eventu ally." but that's really not a great approach to any story. Filler does not equal suspense. It equals boring.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author?
Not really, no but I can't judge a writer by one story alone
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one?
I read 22 chapters of this story and of those I think maybe 5 - 7 had real substance. I think this story could use an overall to condense a lot of the chapters into one (You can still have multiple perspectives but they don't all need to be a full chapter long) to move the plot along faster.
13) Did the author respond to your feedback?
Eventually
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?
Sorry if I came off negatively, but I really struggled to read this story. I think if you're following along update by update it may not seem like it drags as much but to read it in one sitting is tough. Hopefully I was able to provide you with something that will help you in the future should you ever decide to edit it.
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Saturday check in time!
There really isn't much to say. Everyone has pretty much completed the challenge with the exception of Ritz and Emily, so the two of you just keep on reading and see if you can be finished by next weekend. That should give Steph and I time to fill out our reader surveys.
You guys did great this year. I hope everyone had fun despite the huge hiccup.
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I had fun!! Totally gonna do it again next year :)
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Good, I'm glad you enjoyed & that you plan on doing it again!
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I'll be back too!
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Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of story: Save a Prayer by Carter-Orange
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading this story? Uh-- giving birth in the middle of it? haha. Otherwise, I'd say the fact that it was out of my genre comfort zone.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework?The only time it felt like homework was when I was just too exhausted to read (but I was also too exhausted to play with my four year old, too exhausted to get up and feed my newborn, too exhausted to change a diaper, etc, etc.) Once I could get going, I looked forward to reading.
3) What was your favorite scene/chapter in the story?AJ catching a wild boar.
4) Was your favorite character at the halfway point still your favorite at the end? Yes. I think that Nick, by default was the favorite character since he was the narrator and "hero" so to speak.
5) Who was your least favorite character and why?I dunno-- except for any of the New Kids, who didn't really contribute much to the story other than the set-up, I'd say maybe Brian? He didn't really have any big moments that I can remember. He was just kind of there as an ancillary character.
6) If there was a sequel to this story would you be interested in reading it?I don't really think this story would lend itself well to a sequel, unless maybe Steph delved into the aftermath-- I can actually see that being the type of story I would like-- The guys dealing with their emotions and leaning on each other in the wake of such a harrowing experience.... I'd read that.
7) Were you happy with the ending?Yes. I think she wrote the ending well.
8) Name the biggest surprise in the story and did you see it coming? (If there was one)Maybe that ALL of the New Kids died? I didn't really expect that. I actually thought there would be more competition going on.
9) What was this stories biggest strength?It read like I was watching a movie. Steph did a great job describing each scene and setting.
10) What was it's biggest weakness?I think this has more to do with this story's genre vs. my genre preferences, but I would have liked to see more of the guys' relationships and communication with each other-- more "bromance," if you will. But, this was an action/adventure story, so I can see why I saw "less talk/more action," so to speak.
11) Did reading this story make you want to try another one from this author?Yes. I actually read one of her stories in last year's challenge, which prompted me to pick something else she wrote for this year.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading this, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one?I'm glad I chose this story, because it was out of my reading comfort zone, but I still enjoyed it because it was so well-written.
13) Did the author respond to your feedback?Yes
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?I enjoyed it! Sorry I was a little slow getting started and that I took some long breaks in between reading. I was a little distracted. lol
« Last Edit: June 29, 2014, 03:25:34 AM by mare »
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Ritz, here's a copy of the final survey for short stories.
Final survey (To be completed after finishing the story you are reading)
Name of author who wrote these stories:
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading these stories?
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework?
3) What was your favorite story and why?
4) Did you have a favorite character and if so which story did he/she/it come from?
5) What was your least favorite story and why?
6) If there was a sequel to any of these stories would you be interested in reading it?
7) Were you happy with the endings?
8) Name the biggest surprise in any of the stories and did you see it coming? (If there was one)
9) Overall what were the stories biggest strength (you can pick one or just speak generally)?
10) What was their biggest weakness (same as above)?
11) Did reading these stories make you want to try another one from this author?
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading these, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one?
13) Did the author respond to your feedback?
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author?
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Hello!
Not much to say. Steph, you need to complete your reader's survey so this way I can post the happy wavy guys for Emily.
Ritz you just need to finish up those last two stories.
Next weekend I'll be back to wrap things up. :)
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Sorry if it took me so long to finish the last 2 story, it has been really busy with work and business, and my youngest was admitted to the hospital for four days. But here it is:
Name of author who wrote these stories: Mare
1) What was the biggest challenge for you when reading these stories? I guess the time.
2) Did you find yourself looking forward to reading as you were going along or did it feel like homework? Even if I struggle with finding the time to read, it did not feel like a homework at all.
3) What was your favorite story and why? I'd still go with Mirror Image and the Easter Bunny story. Those two really touched my heart.
4) Did you have a favorite character and if so which story did he/she/it come from? Nick, from almost all the stories. I love the way Mare writes Nick.
5) What was your least favorite story and why? probably The Colors of my world... suck, it's not that I don't like it, I actually had fun reading it. This story made me laugh, but if you will ask me to rank the short stories, this probably would be on the last due to it doesn't have much meaning just like the other stories.
6) If there was a sequel to any of these stories would you be interested in reading it? Yes!
7) Were you happy with the endings? Absolutely.
8) Name the biggest surprise in any of the stories and did you see it coming? (If there was one) None, but maybe the way Mare's mind works. She's one creative writer.
9) Overall what were the stories biggest strength (you can pick one or just speak generally)? Mare's creativity and excellent writing.
10) What was their biggest weakness (same as above)? None that I can think of.
11) Did reading these stories make you want to try another one from this author? These stories made me love Mare's works more.
12) Give us one final review that sums up your experience reading these, maybe explain why you gave the kind of feedback you did or if you would have perhaps picked a different story from this one? I enjoy all the short stories, these proved how awesome Mare is as a writer.
13) Did the author respond to your feedback? Yes!
14) Any final thoughts or questions for the author? No questions. Just I love you, Mare. :)
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Okay that was easier to find then I thought it would be! lol
Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: my collection of short stories
Person reading it: Ritz
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?
I was happy because as reader, Ritz has always given honest, detailed feedback.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?
Yes!
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?
Only Mirror Image
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story?
Nope
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one?
It was excellent! Thanks, Ritz!
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Thanks, Ritz! I love you too! Lol
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Readers survey (To be completed once the person reading your story is finished)
Story: Save A Prayer
Person reading it: Emily
1) When you found out this person was reading your story what were your initial thoughts?
I knew Emily liked the more bromance type of story and wasn't sure what she'd make of it.
2) Did your reader leave you an adequate amount of feedback and was it helpful to you?
Yes!
3) Did you find yourself going back to read your story as a result of the feedback?
No, although sometimes I probably should've so that I knew what was happening lol.
4) Do you have any questions for the person reading your story?
No
5) Overall did you find the experience a good one or a bad one?
It was great!
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Well, it's time to wrap up this years challenge. As you can tell by all the happy, wavy people on the first post, for the most part it was a big success.
I wanted to thank all of you for participating and I hope you had a great time! I'll be posting the new rules in here so I have a point of reference when we do this again next year and so you can see if you and your stories will qualify.
Thanks again guys!
Feel free to post final thoughts and input of the rules. :) p
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Some new rules starting in 2015:
~ You can only submit a collaboration if all writers are participating in the challenge. The story can be submitted by both people and it can be read by two different people but I think it's fair. Otherwise, it can be an awkward situation for the person reading it. And you never know if the other person who wrote it would want it to be read for a challenge.
~ When you volunteer to participate in the challenge, before I allow you to submit stories you need to meet the following guidelines:
-Under your username where it says reviews, you must have at least 300 there, unless you are a newer member (less than two years) then I will allow 100.
- I will check to see if you respond to the reviews that you receive, if you don't then this challenge is not for you.
~Before I allow a story, I will actually click on the first chapter and if it's laced with a ton of grammatical errors, I will not allow it as part of the challenge unless it's fixed.
~ You may only submit a story in progress if you have updated that story at least three times in the course of the present year. We want to read stories that actually have a chance of being finished and if you are flaky about posting, it isn't fair to the reader. The story also has to be more than halfway to completion.
~ If you are new to this challenge, you may only submit one story for consideration. After this past year's fiasco, I need to make sure you aren't going to be irresponsible and leave everyone else with a mess.
~ If you have done this challenge before, you may submit up to 5 stories including ones that have previously been submitted.
That's all I have so far. Lol