#Book Reviews: Dreams &Nightmares, Self-Help & Inspiration, Fairies, Myths, & Magic

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews, Books

Hello Everyone,

Today I’m sharing my 5-star reviews for three wonderful, entertaining books.
Hope you enjoy!

In the Tree’s Shadows by D.L. Finn

In the Tree’s Shadow by D. L. Finn is a captivating collection of short stories in a mix of genres, varying from 99 words to novella length. Finn takes the reader on a thrilling ride of paranormal, horror, sci-fi – even romance and fantasy. And her love of the outdoors is apparent as nature is woven into many tales. The worlds she creates are exceptional, showcasing authentic humans and dialogue. I even found the creatures and aliens to be convincing.  

The Wow Factor began from the beginning and continued to the end. Some stories are moving and endearing, a few made me turn on more lights, while others made me stop and think. But they are all entertaining.

The collection begins with “End of the Road,” in which the main character is tired of living, but then the storyline shifts. A powerful introduction to Finn’s storytelling that had me intrigued. I enjoyed “A Reminder” since I’m also a nature enthusiast. “This Journey” speaks of a lost loved one, special memories, and how two people will reunite in another life. All dog lovers will be drawn to “The Bench.”

A few favorites that made me wish for daylight are “When the Lights Go Out,” “In that Moment,” and “The Day the Ground Moved.” “The Playdate” was beyond creepy. “In the Shadows” reminded me never to walk alone in the wilderness because the crackling of leaves could truly mean something sinister.

Whatever genre you’re in the mood for, this collection has a story for you. I don’t usually read horror, paranormal, or sci-fi, but I finished this book in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. You can savor it, though, and take your time, extending the thrilling ride. I’ll add that this is the first book I’ve read by D. L. Finn, and I know it won’t be the last. I truly enjoyed her writing and imagination. Highly recommended for all fiction readers!

Re-Create and Celebrate by Cindy Georgakas

Do you ever carry self-doubt around? Are you a people-pleaser? Are you still trying to figure out your life? If you answer yes to these questions, then Re-Create & Celebrate by Cindy Georgakas is the book for you. I’ve been following Cindy’s blog for a while now, and have grown to admire the caring, vibrant, woman she is. So, I couldn’t wait to read her debut book. I would be hard-pressed to believe that everyone has their life figured out to a tee, no need to ask questions or ponder mysteries. In some ways, I do, but in others, I’m still searching as I bet you are, too.

Georgakas shares her suggestions and knowledge drawn from her experience of being a life coach, and the language she uses is down to earth. She is not shy when it comes to showing her vulnerability. She is simply like you and me, trying to live life to its fullest. The book is organized into 7 Steps To Turn Your Dreams Into Reality, and she ends each chapter with a powerful haiku. Here is a sample…

stay grounded in self
listen with all your senses
open to insight

Georgakas nudges you into delving deep within your soul to discover your true essence, and then to unearth your true purpose. We all know how powerful negative thoughts can be, and how easily they can push us in the wrong direction. As Georgakas says, “…we can’t let the mind take over, since it is designed to overanalyze and judge everything we do.”

As I’m not in my thirties or forties anymore, this quote rang true, “Every age and stage offers new insights and opportunities to adapt and change; we have never been at this place in our lives before, so it’s important to pause and ask, “Who am I now, and what is my purpose?”

Another question to ponder is, “What life is worth living that is not worth questioning?” And this line stood out, “We have a choice to either paint rainbows or black clouds on our blank canvas.” Georgakas sprinkles many nuggets of wisdom from start to finish, so this compilation of encouragement is a great reminder that can be referred to over and over again.

Re-Create & Celebrate is an empowering book to reiterate how crucial self-love is, how to realize our goals and achieve them, and to enhance personal growth. Highly recommended for all who are still seeking those awaited answers!

Fairies, Myths, and Magic by Colleen M. Chesebro

This book is an enchanting collection of engaging prose and poetry about fairies, myths, and magic. Chesebro’s imagination and vivid imagery filled me with wonder as I turned each page. I felt like I had stepped into the scenes to interact with the delightful characters. Chesebro begins with a celebration of the inspiration of summer solstice, and then she introduces fairies with some fascinating facts.

The poems take on many forms, such as free verse and various styles of syllabic poetry. Regardless, Chesebro adds her special magic when she weaves words together. Below is a lovely example:

“Fairy Magic”

When browsing through memories swirling within
your mind,
Most people often find –
Magic is the least understood of the fairytale arts.
Fear not! Look deep into your soul –
To remember a time
When enchantment explained your world,
First seen through the eyes of a child.

I had the pleasure of meeting two adorable pixies and laughing at their shenanigans, but I loved the heartwarming ending. I was introduced to a kind little fairy who yearns for his love to be reciprocated. Chesebro transported me to a shimmering pond for an enlightening experience – “the kind where magic resonates in the shriek of a hawk and in the howling yips from coyote pups that play on the sandy shore under a full moon.” Even the well-known plight of honeybees is woven into her magical stories. And I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Drac, the dragon, who experiences a transformation of heart.

A few favorites are “Just What the Doctor Ordered,” “A Fairy Love Spell,” “The Healer,” and “Halloween Havoc,” which left me with a hilarious, memorable image in my mind.  

Throughout the book, I became delightfully swept up in the magic of spells, incantations, and potions. I suggest you carve out some time over a night or two and dive into the magic. You won’t be disappointed. Chesebro’s storytelling and poetic offerings will lift your spirits. Highly recommended!

Thank you for stopping by, and Happy Reading! 🥰

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com – All rights reserved.

123 thoughts on “#Book Reviews: Dreams &Nightmares, Self-Help & Inspiration, Fairies, Myths, & Magic”

  3. D.L. Finn, Author's avatar D.L. Finn, Author

    Thank you, Lauren 🙂 Your review has me doing a happy forest dance! So happy you enjoyed it.

    I loved Colleen’s collection too and found another book I need to add to my TBR list. Xo

    1. That’s great to hear, Denise. I loved your book and will read more of yours. 🙂 Thanks also for your endorsement for Colleen’s book and you’ll love Cindy’s, too. By the way, I hope you saw my comment on Goodreads about your review for my book. That was such a wonderful surprise! Thanks again, and I’m so glad you enjoyed my memories. ❤️

      1. D.L. Finn, Author's avatar D.L. Finn, Author

        Thank you, Lauren 🙂 I checked but didn’t see anything on Goodreads. It has been acting up lately and not letting me do and see stuff on my phone. I will check through computer later. Hugs xo

    1. Thanks for reading, Yvette, and it’s great to know you loved Denise’s book and will read Colleen’s in the future. These are all great! Now I have 2 more books waiting to be read, and several to order. 💞

      1. mizuv's avatar Paula Light

        Oh wow, thank you! I only have the 8 listed on my “light” tab, so I really appreciate it. Dunno if I’ll ever finish another one. I just bought two of your reviewed books! 😍

  12. Gwen M. Plano's avatar Gwen M. Plano

    Thank you for sharing these wonderful reviews, Lauren. I’ve only read Denise’s collection and loved it. Congratulations to each of the writers. 😊

  13. Wow, you’ve been busy with reviews today. I enjoyed them all.

    This bit from your piece of Cindy Georgakas’ book really resonated with me:“Every age and stage offers new insights and opportunities to adapt and change; we have never been at this place in our lives before, so it’s important to pause and ask, “Who am I now, and what is my purpose?” I have been thinking a lot about my purpose in the last few years.

    And in the last review, I liked the excerpt about experiencing enchantment as a child. I think as we age, it’s important to reclaim that (aka, experiencing awe).

    1. Hi Steve, I finally finished all 3 reviews. I’m not a speedy writer of reviews. Anyway, I’m glad those lines resonated with you too. They sure did for me. And Colleen’s book is truly an enchanting experience. Denise’s is captivating in its own spooky and endearing way. I hope you get the time to check these out. Wishing you a great day!

  15. What magic you present us today. Three is the perfect number. And the choices—spectacular. Best of all, I know these Authors. Each top of the top.
    Thanks for doing the lovely work and enticing me with these reviews. Gorgeous. Glorious. Like you. Thank you.

  18. Fabulous reviews of three very different yet three equally excellent narrative collections! Love the sounds of In The Tree’s Shadow and it is always a delight to see Cindy’s writing show up here. 💕

  19. Lauren, thank you so much for your review. I’m totally over the moon and shivering in delight! I’m in such great company too: D.L. Finn and Cindy Georgakas are both amazing poets and authors. Thank you for making this day extra special. 🙏🏻 💜

  21. Dear Lauren,
    I’m thrilled to be featured here with the other phenomenal writers. Denise’s book is so engaging with her short stories and Colleen is an amazing poet which is so enchanting.

    I’m delighted by you capturing my message so well and sharing it with your followers. It means a lot to me and I am truly honored by your support and conveying my message and my haiku. Thank you so very much for this wonderful review and Congrats to Denise and Colleen❣️

  23. Like you, Lauren, I too am not naturally drawn to paranormal, sci-fi or horror but I’m also very much a believer that a writer ought to read in a variety of genres in order to become more balanced. To read only in one genre is like always having the same meal every day. In The Trees Shadow by D,L Finn, I was particularly intrigued by your description of This Journey and The Bench.

    Who doesn’t need to get a nudge now and then to stay connected to our true essence and enhance our personal growth no matter what stage of life we are at? In this fast-paced life it’s easy to get lost. Cindy Goergakas’ Re-Create & Celebrate (what a great title) book seems to be just the right remedy to remain grounded.

    Fairies, Myth and Magic by Colleen M Chesbro sounds like the kind of book that will take me back to fond childhood memories from an adult’s perspective. This seems like a delightful book and as you said, one to lift your spirits.

    Thank you, for your reviews and for making me discover three very appealing, yet, different books to enrich my life.

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