Book Reviews: Fiction & Poetry Something for everyone!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews

Dear Family and Friends,

My husband and I lost the month of September due to our first bout with Covid. A mild case, thankfully, but one that lingered. Additionally, I lost reading momentum, but I’m finally, finally catching up. In the evenings when the sun has bid farewell and the sky begins to darken, I let myself relax while diving into another world whether it be a fictional setting or soothing poetry. When it comes to writing reviews, sometimes I fall behind, but I’m trying to write them soon after I finish a book. We’ll see if I stick to this system. 😁 Anyway, I’m sharing my latest 5-star reviews for some fabulous books, and maybe you’ll be enticed enough to leave with a few. If you click on the book covers, you’ll be transported to Amazon for purchasing your copy or copies. And now for the reviews…

The Shadows We Breathe – An anthology edited by Sarah Brentyn

I thoroughly enjoyed this anthology of short stories written on the overall theme of power. How is it used? Who triumphs and who suffers? This book is compiled with the excellent writing of eight women and is divided into three parts: Flash fiction (500 words), Micro (50 words), and Microbursts (10 words).

The introduction prefaces the intrigue: “Shades of darkness live within – it is the nature of being human. Our uncertainties, mistakes, anxieties, regrets…These are the shadows we breathe.”

Even though the stories are short, they are not flimsy in entertainment. They are well written, powerful, and deep, evoking a myriad of emotions. Some slide into a darker category where the authors skillfully create worlds we only dare to imagine. Each story is compelling and unique, so I am unable to choose a favorite. However, this book is for all fiction enthusiasts who are brave enough to meet the shadows head-on.

Deep in the Forest where Poetry Blooms by D.L. Finn

Deep in the Forest Where Poetry Blooms by D. L. Finn is a gorgeous poetry collection that takes you on a magical journey of exploration through the forest and landscapes of life. The poems are written in free verse, but you’ll also find syllabic poetry such as limerick, tanka, and haiku. If you are a fan of flora and fauna, you will surely enjoy this ode to Mother Nature. So many poems resonate with me, and I read them slowly to relish in their stunning imagery and depth.

The book is divided into two parts where Finn invites you to take a stroll with her through the seasons of the forest as we observe ‘Green new growth and Dawn’s blush (that) filters through pines’ while delighting in ‘icy winter day/yelling in glee on a sled/inner child peeks out.’ Following the everchanging seasons, you’re guided into the enchantment of the forest where ‘Forest fairies celebrate.’ While reading “My Magic” I felt a sense of commonality as though this poem was written for me. Every day, violence dominates the news, so I can’t help but feel like ‘my world (is) gray and heavy.’ This poem begins with a spirit that feels defeated, and then a most uplifting realization arrives at the end.

Once you leave the magical forest, you are transported to the tropics where Finn expresses how this setting can be healing as ‘the tide washes over my skin/pulling life toward/I sink into the wet sand/And become part of the cycle.’ I was impressed to learn that she wrote underwater poetry while snorkeling! A lovely example is ‘sea soiree/mingling with the fish/bring plus one.’

Finn digs deeper into personal emotions in the second part, sharing great advice in “Consequences” and reminding you of the enduring presence of hope in “Life’s Song.” Since my husband and I have traveled many country and mountain roads on his adventure bike, her mountain musings from the back of a Harley evoke breathtaking memories, as well as stirring up excitement for more exhilarating rides to come.
One of my favorites:

Distance

It took miles
Flying through the pollen-laden air
To get present within the moment.
My mind racing
Through each passing corner.
Then I slowly noticed
Emerald highlights the horizon.
Orange blooms within my reach,
Blue skies embrace me.
Nature’s hues lightened the day
As my worries drifted away.
We pressed forward into the unknown,
Distance became my harmony.

This collection concludes with a selection of Haibun, which is a new form to me. In “Magic Pages” Finn expresses how important her Kindle is: ‘I can barely contain my joy with so many words…’ And yet, you’ll be immersed into worlds of fantasy, you’ll feel love and grief, learn the truth, and of course, you’ll experience the magic and beauty of nature. Finn’s poems are relatable and elegantly written. A poetry collection that is good for the soul.

Why Grandma Doesn’t Know Me by Abbie Johnson Taylor

Why Grandma Doesn’t Know Me is the first book by Abbie Johnson Taylor that I have read, and I was thoroughly impressed with her writing. Taylor tells the story about a close-knit family – mom, dad, older and younger daughter, and the mom’s mother who is in a facility suffering with dementia. The grandmother who recalls events from years ago but whose short-term memory fails, shares a secret from the past with the older daughter without realizing it could tear the family apart. I felt compassion for the grandma because one of my family members passed away from dementia.

The chapters are written from the perspective of the family members: Daryl, Marti, Natalie, and Sarah, along with compelling supporting characters, and the story smoothly progresses from beginning to end. Taylor prompts the reader to question how this unsettling news would be received and handled in his or her own family. The story is engaging and well-written with surprising twists and turns. I found the characters to be authentic for their roles and ages, and the dialogue to be natural.

The reader will experience a variety of emotions as the plot unfolds, and there is a lesson to be learned after the turning of the last page. This book is for all fiction fans and for those who enjoy stories with a powerful message. I look forward to reading more from this talented author.

Broken Rhodes by Kimber Silver

I honestly can’t believe Broken Rhodes is Kimber Silver’s debut novel. It is so well-written and captivating from start to finish. I didn’t want to put this book down. It took me a few nights to reach the last page, but I could’ve finished in one if life hadn’t interrupted. Below is a glimpse into Chapter One that had me hooked:

“The morning sun peeked over his shoulder to light the way as he stepped farther into the house, but it did nothing to scatter the shadow that darkened this reconnaissance.”  
Silver created authentic dialogue, entertaining banter, and vivid imagery transporting the reader to Harlow, Kansas. The story offers suspense as a murder is under investigation, but it also includes family drama, and a love story that takes some nudging to get off the ground.  

Kinsley, the main female character doesn’t need a knight in shining armor to save her, but she inherits this tough shield from her mysterious past. Once I learned the reason for the toughness, it was easy for me to empathize with her. I always enjoy reading books starring an empowering female lead. And the male lead, Lincoln, is the handsome cowboy sheriff, but a real gentleman. Both characters are likable from the beginning. The supporting characters are just as believable, and a few you’d love to meet for coffee, but several who you could easily loathe and even fear.

Broken Rhodes is a gripping and compelling story, so I’m keeping my eyes open for Silver’s next book. And if you enjoy a good whodunit with a dash of romance, you’ll love this book.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you don’t leave empty-handed! 🤗
*Side note: the order in which I share the reviews, as well as the length of each one, is irrelevant to my ratings. All of these books received 5-stars and are highly recommended.

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

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68 thoughts on “Book Reviews: Fiction & Poetry Something for everyone!”

  2. Wonderful reviews, Lauren. There are so many talented people offering us entertaining and thought-provoking material. Now if only the world could stop getting in the way!

    1. Thanks so much, Steve. I agree, so many talented authors. And slowly, but surely, I’m finally making it through my pile. 🙂 But then I keep ordering more books! I can’t help it. It’s an addiction, but a good one! ❤️📚

  4. These are excellent reviews, Lauren. I especially appreciate what you had to say about Why Grandma Doesn’t Know Me. I’ve scheduled a reblog of your post to go live tomorrow. I’m glad you’re feeling better and thank you for your support.

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

    Sorry to hear you have been under the weather with a bout of Covid and glad you are feeling better! Thank you for including your wonderful review of Deep in the Forest, that still has me smiling, with all these great sounding reads. I did read and enjoy The Shadows We Breathe and may have to add to my TBR list. Hugs xo

    1. Hi Denise, thanks regarding covid. We are all better, and it’s nice to have the concentration to read again. I’m also glad you’re happy with my review. I absolutely loved your book, and The Shadows We Breathe was so good too, wasn’t it? I had no idea about micro fiction, so that was nice to learn. I’m sure you’d enjoy the others also, so happy reading when you have time. Hugs 🧡🍁

  7. Thank you, Lauren, for bringing this collection of eclectic reads to my attention. Wonderful reviews of all the books and congratulations to the authors. The world is blessed with such talented writers.
    I am happy to hear that you and your husband have recovered from Covid and I look forward to reading more posts from you. ❤

    1. I’m glad you enjoyed the reviews, Carol. I have been on a book-buying adventure for a while now which has no stopping point. 🙂 I just need more time to read just like we all do. Thanks for your kind words. 🩷

  8. Wow, don’t you love it when you come across a great book and you want to share it with others. You’ve got this me wanting more. I found your last two entries especially interesting — Why Grandma Doesn’t Know Me by Abbie Johnson Taylor and Broken Rhodes by Kimber silver. I’ve had to learn more than I would ever want to know about dementia and related illnesses but it’s interesting seeing how it plays out in others (even in fiction.) I’ll definitely have to check these out. Thank you for the heads-up!

    1. It’s a great feeling, Brian, and I’m sure you would enjoy those two. Abbie’s book is a good story with a different twist, and another book involving dementia is by Carol Balawyder called The Lilac Notebook. Another excellent read, but very different story. I’m glad my reviews enticed you to buy some books. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by.

    1. Haha, you and me both! And you could add my book (wink). I can’t stop buying books, mainly paperbacks, because I love supporting fellow authors, but it’s collecting them that’s fun too. And my bookcase is bursting at the seams. Happy reading, Andrew! These are all great choices!

  12. I’m sorry to hear that covid lingered for you and your husband, Lauren, but I’m glad it was mild overall. Thanks for the reviews! I’m so pleased that you enjoyed “The Shadows We Breathe.” Sarah does a wonderful job with her anthologies, and I was thrilled to be a part of it. I also enjoyed Denise’s poetry. She writes wonderfully about her love of nature – like you. And thanks for the introduction to Abbie’s and Kimber’s books. Hugs.

    1. Thanks, Diana! We were bound to get it eventually and I’m glad it’s over. I loved the anthology, and some of the stories, wow! A great collection, so congrats for being a part of it. I’m sure you’ll enjoy Abbie and Kimber’s books too. I relate so much to Denise’s poetry also. I’m happy you liked the reviews and happy reading! Hugs to you ❤️

  16. Congratulations to all the authors on the stellar reviews! (I was thrilled to be asked to contribute to The Shadows We Breathe. I hope to do more microfiction at some point.)

    1. Thanks for showing your support, Liz, and your stories were wonderful! They all were which is why I couldn’t choose favorites. And it was nice to learn about micro fiction. My knowledge of various types of fiction regarding length is nil. Congrats for being part of it! And thanks for reading my reviews.

      1. You’re welcome–and thank you! Genres and subgenres have changed a LOT since my college and grad school days. It’s a whole new world of possibilities now–and that’s a good thing!

  17. Pingback: Book Reviews: Fiction & Poetry Something for everyone! #WordpressWednesday #Reblogs #Inspiration – My Corner

  19. What fantastic reviews, Lauren. I’m sorry to hear that you and your husband had to deal with COVID but it seems we all have to at some point. You shared some compelling books here and I’m leaving with at least one new one. 🙂 I loved D.L. Finn’s latest and I agree with you that some of the poems felt like they were written just for me. Congratulations to these authors!

  22. All fab reviews, Lauren.
    The book of poetry by D.L. Finn sounds up my alley.

    You have been reading up a storm.
    I know what you mean about writing a review after you’ve read the book.
    If I read something else, my book brain becomes diffused.
    So, I won’t read another book, until I review the one I plan to.
    I just read a book, and want to attempt to draw the main character.
    I will stay close to that book until fait accompli.

    Be well! 💓xx

    1. Thanks, Resa! You’d love Denise’s poetry. She’s also a nature lover, so her poems really resonate with me. Well, it seems like I’ve been reading up a storm, but it’s been over a course of a few months. I’m working on two more reviews before “my book brain becomes diffused.” 🙂 Hugs, my friend xo

      1. Of course your book is on my Kindle. As you might remember, I drowned my Kindle and was without one until just over a week ago. There is no law and order in almost 1200 books! I’m digging through, lol. Glad you’re on the mend! Hugs ❤ xx

      3. No worries Lauren, you are near the top, not the bottom, lol. I do have to eliminate many books that have been there for years from the overkill days of ‘free’ books. I learned a few years ago that ‘free’ doesn’t mean just download, lol. I really want to sort out my digital mess. ❤

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