Body of a Horse, Heart of a Man
Viewing comments for Chapter 19 "Conflict in the Woods"A modern twist on Greek Mythology.
19 total reviews
Comment from Sandra Stoner-Mitchell
That was amazing! I loved this chapter, Rhonda. Now Diantha knows Atrius was once human, I wonder if he will one day be able to be freed from being a centaur. Then Diantha would be able to marry him!!!!! I know, I'm a romantic. I'm glad Georgios was there for her after she'd managed to get away. And even more, I'm really pleased he killed the monster and freed Agatha. Poor lady. So much in this chapter that I loved. Well done, my amazing friend. Love and hugs, Sandra xxxxx
reply by the author on 07-Apr-2025
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That was amazing! I loved this chapter, Rhonda. Now Diantha knows Atrius was once human, I wonder if he will one day be able to be freed from being a centaur. Then Diantha would be able to marry him!!!!! I know, I'm a romantic. I'm glad Georgios was there for her after she'd managed to get away. And even more, I'm really pleased he killed the monster and freed Agatha. Poor lady. So much in this chapter that I loved. Well done, my amazing friend. Love and hugs, Sandra xxxxx
Comment Written 07-Apr-2025
reply by the author on 07-Apr-2025
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Hi Sandra!
I'm so glad you stopped by to review. I know you said you would be around for a bit. It's still good to hear from you!
This is the first hint of given of a chance the two star crossed lovers have a way to be together. Perhaps his curse has a way out, but there's still a lot between now and then...
I wanted to throw Georgios back into the mix as it can't always be Atrius coming to her rescue. Plus, to be a real partner to a king, she has to have her own grit and ability to build and outer circle.
Thanks for the lovely stars, dear friend, and for taking precious time to visit.
Much love,
Rhonda
Comment from rspoet
Hello Rhonda,
Another suspenseful chapter in the story as the "Specter" Drake captures
Diantha. Excellent choice of name; I recall the character Draco in Harry Potter, follower of Voldemort. But fortunately Specters are mortal and Georgios is up to the task.
The dialogue between Diantha and Drake reveals a great deal of information,
an Achilles heel of vulnerability in Atrius.
That weakness in Atrius is likely because he is a god, and at 'heart', an immortal man. His weakness is surely love, and his love is Diantha.
(Echoes of a future weakness Theo)
I suspect releasing Agatha may be important in the plot. Agatha refers to "good" but with Agatha Christie, it might even be "great".
Many interesting nuances in this story.
Well done.
Best wishes to all.
Robert
reply by the author on 06-Apr-2025
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Hello Rhonda,
Another suspenseful chapter in the story as the "Specter" Drake captures
Diantha. Excellent choice of name; I recall the character Draco in Harry Potter, follower of Voldemort. But fortunately Specters are mortal and Georgios is up to the task.
The dialogue between Diantha and Drake reveals a great deal of information,
an Achilles heel of vulnerability in Atrius.
That weakness in Atrius is likely because he is a god, and at 'heart', an immortal man. His weakness is surely love, and his love is Diantha.
(Echoes of a future weakness Theo)
I suspect releasing Agatha may be important in the plot. Agatha refers to "good" but with Agatha Christie, it might even be "great".
Many interesting nuances in this story.
Well done.
Best wishes to all.
Robert
Comment Written 06-Apr-2025
reply by the author on 06-Apr-2025
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Hi Robert,
Thanks so much for the six stars and for the detailed review.
The name Drake is derived from the work Dragon or snake, which is why I chose it, and, I suppose, JK Rowling as well.
Georgios came through for Echo at one time, as well. He keeps to the shadows, but shows up in need.
You are partially right about the weakness, but there's a bit more to the story this time. Yes, good memory on Theo and his weakness as well. It goes a bit further with ol dad.
Agatha will show up again later, but stays on the side of good, lol. A bit of a minor character that shows more the discernment and good nature of Georgios.
I like that tie in on the name of Agatha and Agatha Christie. I didn't intend it, but did use the name to mean good. I very often research a name before I use it, lol.
Thanks again,
Rhonda
Comment from Pam (respa)
Good artwork and story to go with it, Rhonda. I don't know how you came up with Drake, but he certainly wasn't an endearing character. Diantha is experiencing a lot since she has been here, but she held her own against someone who could have done her great harm. She even avoided being struck by an arrow by thinking fast.
There was a difference in Georgios's character than we have seen before, but war is looming. I was glad that Agatha was treated well and allowed to leave. He also treated Diantha well and took care of her wounds and the horrible mark on her forehead. He also does a good job explaining the difference between him and his father and what Drake knew about him and how he figured he could get the best of him, but fortunately things didn't go his way.
You did a good job ending the story on a positive note. Very well done, my friend.
reply by the author on 06-Apr-2025
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Good artwork and story to go with it, Rhonda. I don't know how you came up with Drake, but he certainly wasn't an endearing character. Diantha is experiencing a lot since she has been here, but she held her own against someone who could have done her great harm. She even avoided being struck by an arrow by thinking fast.
There was a difference in Georgios's character than we have seen before, but war is looming. I was glad that Agatha was treated well and allowed to leave. He also treated Diantha well and took care of her wounds and the horrible mark on her forehead. He also does a good job explaining the difference between him and his father and what Drake knew about him and how he figured he could get the best of him, but fortunately things didn't go his way.
You did a good job ending the story on a positive note. Very well done, my friend.
Comment Written 06-Apr-2025
reply by the author on 06-Apr-2025
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Hi Pam,
Thank you so much for the six stars, and for reading it through. I'll admit I had you in mind with the cellar scene. As before, I would trim away the dark to keep things on the lighter side. I needed to introduce the evilness of the enemy without too much ugly.
Georgios is always my sleeper character. He has a bit of a stronger role this round, and he's not finished yet. I'm trying to flesh him out a bit.
Drake was necessary, again, to give the reader a chance to see just how desperate the situation with the fighting is, and how depraved the enemy. I also needed to add in about the weakness to give more a sense of urgency. It will be that part that will drive Diantha to make a desperate move in the next chapter or two.
Thank you again,
Rhonda
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You are very welcome and deserving of the stars and review, Rhonda. Thanks for keeping me in mind. I admit I didn't like Drake, but it wasn't too bad, and now he won't be in the story as far as I know. I agree with your reasoning. I hope you do more with Georgios as the story goes along. You are doing a good job with Diantha because she is growing as a character in the story. You did a great job!
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Thank you so very much. I've told you before you're my darkness compass. I can always count on you to call me to the carpet on it. It's fantasy, not horror, lol.
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You are very welcome, Rhonda, and I didn't know I was a "darkness compass." I like that title. You are right about fantasy and horror, but some people combine both. You are doing a great job with the story. Have a good week.
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Thank you, Pam. Yes, you are entitled now, lol. Yes, it has become a trend lately to join horror and fantasy. I even tried fantasy and science fiction in a book I had on here for quite a while, and quite a while ago. I got dinged for mixing the two, so I stopped writing it. I may revisit it later...
Thanks again!!
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Thanks for sharing everything, Rhonda. What was the book that you are referring to? You can send a message or e-mail if you want.
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Return to Concorde Valley.
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That surprises me. I liked that story.
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Ooops, sorry, the other book was The Humanity Project. You didn't like it, lol.
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I vaguely remember that.
Comment from Ulla
Hi Rhonda, this was another fine chapter. I dare say that your imagination knows no bounds. Drake is a stinker alright. He somehow reminds me of a certain president, or maybe my imagination is running wild? I can't wait to reading on. Hugs, Ulla xxx
reply by the author on 05-Apr-2025
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Hi Rhonda, this was another fine chapter. I dare say that your imagination knows no bounds. Drake is a stinker alright. He somehow reminds me of a certain president, or maybe my imagination is running wild? I can't wait to reading on. Hugs, Ulla xxx
Comment Written 05-Apr-2025
reply by the author on 05-Apr-2025
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Hi Ulla,
Thank you so very much for the lovely, six star review. Drake is a stinker, but works for an even bigger one. No purposeful reference to any political figures past or present, lol.
Hugs,
Rhonda
Comment from jacquelyn popp
Your thrilling tale of adventure immersed the reader in a fantastical world filled with gods, magic, and unexpected twists. The dynamic between Diantha and Phobeus is compelling as they both face personal challenges while working to outsmart Drake and his sinister plans.
The world building is rich, and the characters add depth to your story. The dialogue is sharp and filled with wit, and the twists are unpredictable, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat. Thanks for sharing.
reply by the author on 05-Apr-2025
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Your thrilling tale of adventure immersed the reader in a fantastical world filled with gods, magic, and unexpected twists. The dynamic between Diantha and Phobeus is compelling as they both face personal challenges while working to outsmart Drake and his sinister plans.
The world building is rich, and the characters add depth to your story. The dialogue is sharp and filled with wit, and the twists are unpredictable, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat. Thanks for sharing.
Comment Written 05-Apr-2025
reply by the author on 05-Apr-2025
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Jacquelyn,
Thank you so much for the very intuitive review. You seemed to have caught onto the main elements even having just jumped into a book that's several chapters long.
Thanks again,
Rhonda
Comment from Debi Pick Marquette
OMGosh, is there any end to the surprises you give us? I loved that this was a long chapter and a very awesome one at that. Exciting and as suspenseful as they come. I was sure the bird forgot about her for a while, as the torture continued as Drake kept her for a sacrifice. When Champion nor Atrius came I was starting to get scared, but never expected to meet Georgios. Have we ever met him before, or did Atrius just mention him?
Either way, we found out what was the weakness of Atrius that Drake kept talking about. Now you really have me wondering about the next chapter and about the big war or fight. It is really obvious about how much Diantha is in love with Atrius.
But what a cool interaction that was with Georgios.
Sorry it took me so long to get here again, but you know I want to read it when I have the time to enjoy it. Tonight was perfect as I needed to get my mind off of things.
Thank you for this amazing chapter and especially for making it a nice long one for us. LOL. Love it, my wonderful lovely friend. Love and hugs, Debi
reply by the author on 04-Apr-2025
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OMGosh, is there any end to the surprises you give us? I loved that this was a long chapter and a very awesome one at that. Exciting and as suspenseful as they come. I was sure the bird forgot about her for a while, as the torture continued as Drake kept her for a sacrifice. When Champion nor Atrius came I was starting to get scared, but never expected to meet Georgios. Have we ever met him before, or did Atrius just mention him?
Either way, we found out what was the weakness of Atrius that Drake kept talking about. Now you really have me wondering about the next chapter and about the big war or fight. It is really obvious about how much Diantha is in love with Atrius.
But what a cool interaction that was with Georgios.
Sorry it took me so long to get here again, but you know I want to read it when I have the time to enjoy it. Tonight was perfect as I needed to get my mind off of things.
Thank you for this amazing chapter and especially for making it a nice long one for us. LOL. Love it, my wonderful lovely friend. Love and hugs, Debi
Comment Written 03-Apr-2025
reply by the author on 04-Apr-2025
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Good morning, Debi!
What a lovely sight for me this morning to see your review and 6 shining stars to brighten this rainy day here.
Georgios has shown up briefly and Atrius has talked about him. He's a sort of sleeper character I intentionally have overlooked. He plays a few parts in the last book as well, always a bit of Cameo. He isn't finished yet, lol.
I'm glad I was able to build some suspense, and that the cellar scene wasn't too graphic, and I'm ever so glad you liked the length, because I debated on cutting it short and posting the other half later. Unfortunately, I found not stopping place.
I'm glad it was able to take your mind off other things. I can relate.
Love you bunches,
Rhonda
Comment from Mike Stevens
Another fine chapter, Rhonda-----and Drake Sounds like the Trump of Concorde Valley, the citizens should be afraid, very afraid! Don't know if Trump's breath is as bad as Drake's, but I imagine so!
reply by the author on 04-Apr-2025
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Another fine chapter, Rhonda-----and Drake Sounds like the Trump of Concorde Valley, the citizens should be afraid, very afraid! Don't know if Trump's breath is as bad as Drake's, but I imagine so!
Comment Written 03-Apr-2025
reply by the author on 04-Apr-2025
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Hehe. He was a stinker and in more ways than one.
I appreciate you!
Rhonda
Comment from Wayne Fowler
Quite detailed and finely delivered.
Diantha was suddenly gripped with terror. - Why would Diantha believe anything Drake said about gods?
Best wishes.
reply by the author on 03-Apr-2025
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Quite detailed and finely delivered.
Diantha was suddenly gripped with terror. - Why would Diantha believe anything Drake said about gods?
Best wishes.
Comment Written 03-Apr-2025
reply by the author on 03-Apr-2025
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I think she buys into him having specialized knowledge because he's a Specter, even if she's willing to fight him.
Thanks so much for the review!!
Comment from Faith Williams
Wow, Rhonda, what a chapter! And Diantha does not easily cower when in seemingly impossible situations. Not to mention she learns something about Atrius which she may lead her to hope.
Suggestions to consider:
There are several lines with the word "looked", and I suggest switching them out for a stronger verb.
He leaned back looking at his handiwork. Maybe studying, inspecting, examining?
Diantha looked at Atrius' son in surprise. Maybe gaped?
He looked down at her with a mixture of concern and pride. Maybe peered?
"I heard you cry for your filly," he explained. Champion is too far... I believe you need quotation marks before Champion.
she said holding her arm up for him to see in the dim street lamps, I am a little confused here because I thought the shack was in the middle of the woods and the only light came from the full moon.
Anticipating the big battle!
reply by the author on 03-Apr-2025
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Wow, Rhonda, what a chapter! And Diantha does not easily cower when in seemingly impossible situations. Not to mention she learns something about Atrius which she may lead her to hope.
Suggestions to consider:
There are several lines with the word "looked", and I suggest switching them out for a stronger verb.
He leaned back looking at his handiwork. Maybe studying, inspecting, examining?
Diantha looked at Atrius' son in surprise. Maybe gaped?
He looked down at her with a mixture of concern and pride. Maybe peered?
"I heard you cry for your filly," he explained. Champion is too far... I believe you need quotation marks before Champion.
she said holding her arm up for him to see in the dim street lamps, I am a little confused here because I thought the shack was in the middle of the woods and the only light came from the full moon.
Anticipating the big battle!
Comment Written 03-Apr-2025
reply by the author on 03-Apr-2025
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Hi Faith,
Thank you so much for the detailed review!! So helpful!!!
You're right on looked. I continue to have issues with it. You have no idea how many already replaced. Thanks for finding the others for me. I really need to check it on the word processer.
On the street lights, I need to emphasize that Georgios lead her away on his horse. I had them mount up, but need to put in how they traveled away. Thanks for pointing it out. Quick fix.
Hugs,
Rhonda
Comment from lyenochka
Hooray for Diantha whose quick thinking and defense maneuvers got herself free and eventually got Agatha free, too. (I like that you chose Agatha for the name because it means 'good' and she is after all, a good character who was trapped with bad company.) It's good to see Georgios again and he is helping Diantha much like he will help another strong and stubborn lady who will join his family.
reply by the author on 03-Apr-2025
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Hooray for Diantha whose quick thinking and defense maneuvers got herself free and eventually got Agatha free, too. (I like that you chose Agatha for the name because it means 'good' and she is after all, a good character who was trapped with bad company.) It's good to see Georgios again and he is helping Diantha much like he will help another strong and stubborn lady who will join his family.
Comment Written 02-Apr-2025
reply by the author on 03-Apr-2025
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Hi Helen,
Thank you for your review and comments. You're like me, you look up meanings for names!! There is a little play in here about good people getting trapped in bad situations. If the chapter hadn't been so long, I would have added more about that. Thanks for picking up on it.
Take care,
Rhonda
