Comment from Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

Excellent

This was an excellent post, demanding a six of which I'm out of. It was so real, it could easily have been a scene that was being recorded as it was unfolding. The way you put us in with Charles and Helen, sitting with them and listening in, was terrific writing. I can really understand Helen and her love of her own country, perhaps it was a long ago memory, one that no longer exists. But, it is still real for her. And I do agree with what you said about many people were forced to change their religion on pain of death. That doesn't make them true followers in their hearts, though. Well done, Tony, this was pure, brilliant writing. A virtual six, my friend. :)) Sandra xx

You(r) wish, oh master,

 Comment Written 04-Jun-2019

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reply by the author on 04-Jun-2019

I appreciate your comments on this chapter, Sandra. I wondered if I might have slowed the pace too much by reflecting on the Kalash of the Hindu Kush, and by dwelling at such length on the character development in The Three Horseshoes. Delighted to hear that it worked for you.

reply by Sandra Stoner-Mitchell on 05-Jun-2019

Not at all. I think it's those touches that humanise your book, it's perfect. :))

Comment from damommy

Excellent

I'm not too happy with Charles going back with Helen to her homeland. It seems a very dangerous thing to do. But I enjoy Bisto very much, and Biggles, too. What a cute name.

 Comment Written 04-Jun-2019

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reply by the author on 04-Jun-2019

They do seem set on a potentially disastrous course, not to mention the fact that they seem to have lost track of the French letter mystery. I wish they'd just settle down and start doing what I want them to! LOL

Comment from JudyE

Excellent

It's good to introduce facts through conversation as you've done here.

I only picked a few small points:
"You wish, oh master, is my command." - 'Your wish....'

Suzie paused for just long enough for Joe to reach across and filch a bit. - maybe delete 'for' after 'paused'

Cheers. Judy

 Comment Written 04-Jun-2019

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reply by the author on 04-Jun-2019

Thanks, Joan. One day I hope to post a chapter without this kind of inane error! On the other hand, when I do, you'll have nothing to write about. LOL As always, I appreciate your input. Best wishes, Tony

reply by JudyE on 04-Jun-2019

It's Judy but no problems. I always think you write well but it's hard to get the x characters sometimes saying the same nice things as all the other times. Much easier if there is something small to correct.

Comment from WryWriter

Excellent

This chapter comes alive all due to the author's skill in describing environment and equal skill in penning character dialogue. I thoroughly enjoyed reading your work! Some suggestions below for your consideration:

"You((r)) wish, oh master, is my command."

Suzie paused ((omit for)) just long enough for Joe to reach across and filch a bit.

I noted you used the idiomatic variant phrase "if the worst comes to the worst." The common usage is "if worse comes to worst." Guess it is author's choice though. LOL!

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 Comment Written 04-Jun-2019

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reply by the author on 04-Jun-2019

Once again, your review saves me from the embarrassment of unleashing these basic errors on the bulk of my small readership! I've decided to keep the worst/worst version, which is the more usual one in British English. As always, than you for reading and reviewing. Your continued support and encouragement helps me to get over the times when I begin to doubt if the whole endeavour is worthwhile. All the best, Tony

reply by WryWriter on 04-Jun-2019

Your endeavor is more than worthwhile! You are one of the best authors I've read. : )

Comment from lyenochka

Excellent

I always enjoy your literary allusions. Now you've got me curious about reading the Rushdie book. Helen and Charles would make a great pair if they learn from each other.

"You wish, oh master, is my command." (Your?)
I was curious about "pottering about" as in American English we say "puttering about."

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 Comment Written 04-Jun-2019

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reply by the author on 04-Jun-2019

Thanks, Helen. Parts of Rushdie's book (Two Years, Eight Months and Twenty-Eight Nights) are fascinating. Parts, too, are pretty heavy going - at least, I found them so!
Puttering/pottering is another of those British English / American English things!