Book Review: Slivers by Vicki Atkinson

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews98 Comments

It’s time to share a long overdue review of Slivers by Vicki Atkinson –
another compelling read to add to your towering TBR! 🙂

In case you haven’t met Vicki...

Hi – I’m Victoria, Vicki, Dr. Vicki. (I’ll answer to any and all!) I hold a doctorate in Adult Education and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), author of “Surviving Sue” and “Slivers“. I’m also a well-regarded speaker and consultant in my own business, Atkinson Group Solutions.

I believe in the power of connection – taking time to share what matters most and I do a lot of pondering (yes…Victoria Ponders) about writing, relationships, family and wellness.

Writing for wellness was the inspiration behind my memoir, “Surviving Sue“. Two years later, I answered the call from readers who were curious about my mom’s highly intuitive family, and I wrote my first-ever novel, “Slivers” – inspired by eerie, generational secrets.

Learn more about both books from my terrific publisher, Eckhartz Press.

My 5-star review:

Slivers by Vicki Atkinson

Slivers quietly pulled me in and then refused to let go. From the beginning, Vicki had a natural way of drawing me into this tale. As I turned the pages, I found myself face to face with family dysfunction of many layers. And before I knew it, I was completely immersed in the lives of the three protagonists. Their emotions and struggles against the frightening supernatural forces (slivers) that became more intense made me care about what happened to them. I felt the tension, and honestly, I believe I held my breath until I reached the last page. For me, when a book is really good, I think about the characters even when I’m not reading. So, it’s as though I stepped into the world of these three young teenagers that took place in a week’s time during the summer of 1973. Do your thoughts ever take you back generations? Sometimes, the past covertly slinks into the present, providing fodder for a fascinating story about a family whose secrets resurface.

Imagine trying to make sense of hearing ghostly voices, seeing inanimate objects move like living creatures, let alone, unearthing a family secret that upends life. Do you crave drama and suspense? Do you love characters that make you feel like you’ve known them forever? Does a hint of the unexplained keep you engrossed? If you answer yes to these questions, then I highly recommend Slivers – a masterfully written novel with an ending that stayed with me long after I turned the last page.

To purchase your copy of Slivers, simply click on the book cover image above.

Now that I (hope to) have your attention, let me also highlight Vicki’s memoir, Surviving Sue.

My 5-star review:

Vicki Atkinson’s book is an honest and emotional memoir about living with her mom, Sue, who was plagued with mental health and addiction issues. Sue’s moods would shift from joyful to rage in no time, causing confusion and pain to anyone nearby. Vicki disclosed only the truth, no sugarcoating any situation, and even inserted humor at times. In the midst of chaos and after she moved out from her mother’s house, she remained concerned about her disabled sister, Lisa, who landed on the receiving end of their mother’s manipulation and abuse.

How Vicki met each challenging moment with resilience, compassion, and strength was absolutely amazing to discover. She uncovered the means for coping while also providing us a glimpse of the good side of Sue…her fun, entertaining qualities, and empathetic heart that advocated for others. I found this perspective to be heartwarming and inspirational. Vicki became a licensed counselor, so I’m sure living with her mom’s unstable personality offered insight for her future to counsel others. This book truly demonstrates what it means to love and forgive, and to stay strong in turbulent times. Highly recommended!

To purchase your copy, simply click on the book cover image.

Thanks so much for stopping by, and please don’t leave empty-handed! Pay Vicki a visit too. She is not only an excellent writer, but she’s a kind-hearted soul, and I’m happy to call her a friend in this warm community. 💖

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© Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com

Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.

Lake Love

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Photos, Poetry72 Comments

I returned earlier than I mentioned, but I thought you’d enjoy some lake love. 💙

There’s nothing like escaping to the mountains for tranquility and perspective. Nature unconditionally offers her healing ways, so we embraced them. Last month, life threw us some challenges that we’re moving through with as much grace as possible, but it was good to getaway and spend some time in the Sierra Mountains. We biked around the renovated campground on newly paved roads (pedal bikes and so much fun!). We hiked on the backcountry trail – the same trail that took us to the enchanting Spider Lake for backpacking in 2019.
Loon Lake shown in these photos is gorgeous, a mini Lake Tahoe without the tourists. And it’s been our ‘cabin’ for the last 15 years. Stepping into the cold water is a bit shocking, but once you’re immersed, it feels so good and refreshing that you never want to get out. It’s magical. We reveled in each sunset, and I can’t get enough pics! Our last night’s sunset was one of the most spectacular, oranges and pinks brushed across the sky. And of course, we simply relaxed in camp – reading, talking, listening. Our time here was awesome. It was peaceful. It was reflective. It was needed.
So, I hope the slide show brings peace to you:

A getaway in the woods
may help us forget,
but reality tags along –
so we lug around sadness
while embracing serenity,
and somehow,
they harmonize.

I hope you’re doing well, and maybe one of our photos spoke to you, or maybe a few.
Next week, I’ll share reviews for some wonderful books!
Take good care and stay healthy! 💕

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© Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com

Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.

A picture book that offers a message
for all ages.

Hello August…

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Blogging
From our backyard

Dear Friends,

I’m going to be offline until near the end of the month. At that time, I’ll share a few over-due book reviews. Until then, I hope the photo above brings a smile, and the photo below brings calming vibes.

Stinson Beach

Have an amazing August, and Stay cool, Stay safe, Stay well! ❤️

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© Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com

Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.

Welcome Author, Jacqui Murray!

On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews115 Comments

Dear Friends,

I am thrilled to welcome friend and fellow Author, Jacqui Murray, and help promote her new book, Balance of Nature, which is Book 3 of the Savage Land Trilogy! Jacqui is a talented and prolific author of prehistoric fiction and non-fiction, and she has published more books than I can count!
Balance of Nature is on my list to read later this year. However, I read and loved Endangered Species, and you can find my 5-star review on Amazon, Goodreads, and at this book review post.

Summary:

A tribe haunted by the past. Lies that threaten the future. A reason to find the truth.

Savage Land is the third trilogy about prehistoric man in the series, Man. Vs. Nature. Savage Land explores how two bands of humans survived one of the worst natural disasters in Earth’s history, when volcanic eruptions darkened the sky, massive tsunamis crossed the ocean in crushing waves, and raging fires burned the land. Viral tribes of Neanderthals and early man considered themselves apex predators, but that crown belonged to Nature and she was intent on washing the two-legged blight from her lands.

In Balance of Nature, Book Three of the trilogy, Yu’ung’s Neanderthal tribe hopes to settle at Gibraltar but instead find unexpected threats and lethal challenges. 

Follow the courageous Yu’ung, the determined Kazeb, the mystical Shanadar, and the pawed-and-clawed Canis as they navigate a perilous world of tribal conflict, unexplained visions, and shifting loyalties. Their journey is a testament to the resilience and strength of true leadership in a sweeping saga that ultimately leads to who we are today. 

Book information:

Print, digital, audio soon available: http://a-fwd.com/asin=B0G45MFBWW
Genre: Prehistoric fiction
Editor: Anneli Purchase

Author bio:

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular prehistoric fiction saga, Man vs. Nature which explores seminal events in man’s evolution one trilogy at a time. She is also author of the Rowe-Delamagente thrillers and Building a Midshipman , the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. Her non-fiction includes 100+ books on tech into education, and a freelance journalist on tech ed topics.

Social Media contacts:

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Jacqui-Murray/e/B002E78CQQ/

Blog:                                       https://worddreams.wordpress.com

Pinterest:                                http://pinterest.com/askatechteacher

X:                                             http://twitter.com/worddreams

Website:                                 https://jacquimurray.net

Jacqui shares her thoughts about attending Writer’s Conferences.

I haven’t been to an in-person writer’s conference in a while. In the past, I attended two a year, one for writing and one for education (I’m a teacher-author). I’ve posted about preparation for these events and how they went (always felt exhilarated and motivated afterwards).

Problems with airlines, COVID, personal issues, and limited funds have all seemed to discourage me from attending of late. I chatted with efriends to get their feedback on conferences they had attended and whether they were considering more in the future. Here’s some of the feedback I got:

Yes if…

  • You’re seeking structured feedback on your work (many conferences offer pitch sessions, manuscript critiques, or agent meetings).
  • You want to network with agents, editors, or published authors in your genre (check the guest list—look for 3+ people you’d genuinely pay to meet).
  • You’re stuck in a rut and need inspiration/motivation (workshops + peer energy can break writer’s block).
  • The cost is <5% of your annual writing income (or you’re treating it as a tax-deductible professional development expense).

    Skip if…

    • You feel like it’s a “pay-to-pitch” scam (red flag: high fees for vague “agent access” with no track record of sales).
    • The lineup is generic (“How to Write a Novel” by someone who’s never published one).
    • You’re introverted and hate small talk (virtual options or smaller regional events might be better).
    • You’re broke—wait for scholarships, early-bird rates, or free local meetups.

    Great take-aways from attending one

    • the opportunity to network with like-minded people
    • the chance to pitch to an agent
    • getting away from the daily routine
    • gain expert answers to questions 
    • hear up-to-date feedback on the status of the industry

    This is a lot to think about. I don’t know if I’ll attend the next one coming up, but at least, I have some metrics to apply to the decision.

    Jacqui asked me if I had ever attended a writer’s conference, and I have – the San Francisco Writer’s Conference for the last two years. Both were great but different experiences, and my take-aways align with Jacqui’s. Fortunately, this conference was local, about a half hour’s drive, so the travel cost was low. I regarded this event as ‘time for me’ so I stayed at the Hyatt Regency where the conference is held every year, and the convenience of taking the elevator to my room after the evening events was beyond awesome! I loved networking with other authors, learning about their writing and publishing experiences. I sold my books in the on-site bookstore. I met with agents and editors and gained valuable feedback. I lunched, wined, and dined with new friends. The fun began on Thursday and ended on Sunday, when I went home with a myriad of information. My brain was fried but in a good way! It’s not an inexpensive investment, especially, staying at the hotel for three nights. Although, if you can make it work, I would recommend attending at lease one conference that is convenient for you. There is so much to learn.
    Even so, Jacqui shared some good points that I agree with, so attending is definitely a personal decision.

    As you head out today, I hope you’ve been inspired by Jacqui’s incredible storytelling and her passion for writing prehistoric fiction. I also hope you’ll pick up a copy of her book and, if you haven’t already, consider attending a writer’s conference. It’s a wonderful way to connect with other writers and spark new ideas.

    Thank you so much for stopping by! I can’t wait to dive into Jacqui’s book later this year when life slows down a bit. And thank you, Jacqui, for inviting me to be part of your exciting book blast. It’s been a pleasure! ❤️

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    © Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com
    All photos courtesy of Jacqui Murray.

    Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.

    Rising Curtain

    On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry85 Comments

    Sometimes life gets murky, but while trudging through the murkiness,
    we reminisce and a poem is written:

    Anticipation wrestles
    with pure excitement
    behind the red velvet curtain

    sweaty palms,
    a heartbeat
    refusing to settle

    the audience breathes patience
    the curtain rises

    footsteps find their pace
    into the hot,
    exhilarating spotlight

    the microphone waits
    I pause,
    inhale, slowly exhale

    the lights and energy
    fuel my passion

    with mic in hand,
    dreams become
    the rhythm of words
    rolling from my alto voice
    holding the final note

    applause echoes
    through the auditorium –
    no chemical assistance
    needed for this high

    those dreams
    drift beyond the mezzanine
    reaching for the moon,
    and as time moves with them,
    a new dream
    will take center stage.

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    Thanks so much for stopping by, and I hope all is well with you! ❤️

    © Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com
    Photo: High School Talent show where I took home the 1st place trophy.

    Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.

    Sally’s Smorgasbord Summer Book Fair includes King Copper!

    On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews, Books67 Comments

    I’ve been absent more than present here, but even so, Sally’s generosity shines when she emails me to let me know about her summer book fair and that my poetry collection, King Copper, will be amongst the highlighted books. This is thrilling because if Copper touches another heart through my tribute to him then my heart is touched as well. But I’m also honored to be among such talented authors as Balroop Singh, author of Fusion, and Nicole Sara, author of The Blues and the Beautiful. So, thanks again, Sally, for your support! And the review by Thomas is wonderful which I’m sharing below. Thomas has a big heart for dogs too, and I loved his book: The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle: Stories and Tips from Thirteen Years with a Leonberger.

    Thomas Wikman

    5 out of 5 stars
    The Life of a Dog named Copper

    Copper, a rescue Chocolate Lab was picked up from a foster home in March of 2012 by a loving family and in return they received 13 years of unconditional love from Copper, who turned out to be a quite remarkable dog. This touching and beautiful book recounts his life in the form of poetry. What better way to tell the life of a dog, than through poetry. Some of the poems are from Copper’s perspective and some of them are from the author’s perspective. Some of the poems are fun, some speak of love, and some speak of grief. I think that everyone who’s ever owned dogs will recognize themselves in this book. I certainly did.

    Dogs have personalities, they can express themselves, they are innocent, they are fun, they are loving, they can sense your mood and feelings, and they want to comfort you when you are sad. They love you and they can do amazing things, and they are part of the family. All of this is beautifully expressed in this book. This is a heartwarming book that will leave no heart untouched.

    There are also a lot of great color photos in the book. I thought it was fun to look at the various photos of Copper and the people he interacted with. There is also explanatory background information. The book is well written and well laid out and the author is obviously a great poet. I highly recommend this book to all dog lovers. Actually, I recommend it to everyone.

    I’m so grateful to Sally and Thomas!

    I invite you all to click over to check out Sally’s fabulous book fair! Happy reading!

    Smorgasbord Summer Book Fair – #Poetry #Life #Love #Loss Lauren Scott, Nicole Sara, Balroop Singh

    I hope you are enjoying your summer! We are traveling to the east coast next month to visit our son, daughter & son-in-law, and then a week later, we’ll enjoy respite by our favorite lake. I might even write some poetry! 🙂 I’m still nose-deep in several writing projects.

    Anyway, thanks for popping in, and I hope joy embraces you in whatever you do! ❤️

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    © Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com
    Smorgasbord photo: Sally Cronin

    Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.

    Saturday Spark

    On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry86 Comments

    I shared this poem before but made a few revisions and recorded again. There’s so much going on around us to stir up anxiety, but we’re also surrounded by beauty that makes us pause, feeling a sense of awe. So, try releasing the chaos that worries you and accept my invitation to get out in nature and enjoy the moment.

    Angles of Wisdom

    My eyes look up
    to the tallest trees
    on our precious planet
    and I am drawn into stillness
    like a hypnotist’s magic.

    Fine slivers of blue
    calm thoughts
    becoming thieves,
    stealing pockets of peace.

    Soft clusters of green
    gently dance in a breeze
    while nature’s wildlife
    build their playgrounds.

    Sparrows and blackbirds
    croon for their mates.
    I ruminate
    on how these majestic giants
    take care of each other,
    unconditionally –
    we should emulate
    without deliberation.

    My eyes look up
    and I am reminded
    of their age
    ancient as dinosaurs
    that roamed the land.

    Angles of wisdom
    permeate my space –
    eyes slowly close.
    I breathe in
    and savor this moment
    that is mine to own.

    Have a fabulous weekend! ❤️

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    © Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com

    Lauren Scott is a 2025 Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir in verse and prose, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts, and her writing has been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations. At Spillwords Press, she received Publication of the Year (Poetic, 2026), Author of the Month (May 2023), and Publication of the Month (June 2025 and October 2024). A member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, Lauren received an Honorable Mention for her poem “Wings” in the 2026 Smalls Too Poetry Contest. Her work also appears in six anthologies. Lauren is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.

    Poetry that invites reflection
    on the past, present, and future –
    and reminds us to love and live ever so gently.

    Happy Father’s Day Weekend!

    On By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Celebrations77 Comments

    This weekend and every day, we think of our fathers, Richard and Wil, and brother-in-law, Jerry, who aren’t with us anymore. We miss them so much, but they will always live in our hearts. And we celebrate the backpacker in the photo who loves his daughter and son and wife more than anything. He’s endured some bumps in the road but with us by his side for support, he feels like he’s won the lottery. Besides spending time with his family, he’d rather be hiking on a mountain, relaxing by a lake, or riding a motorcycle. His heart is kind and he tries to see the good in everyone. Even after 37 years, I still get lost in his blue eyes and can’t believe how lucky I am to share my life with him. ❤️

    So, Happy Father’s Day to all the wonderful dads around the globe who do their best to be the best for their children!

    By the way, DNA doesn’t make a good father. Actions speak louder than words. A biological father who neglects his children isn’t a good dad. A great father is a man who is emotionally available and actively involved in his child’s life.

    “The greatest gift a father could give to his children is his time.”

    Enjoy your weekend and celebrations, and Thanks for stopping by! ❤️

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    © Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com

    Lauren Scott is a 2025 Pushcart Prize Nominee who enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their daughter and son live out of state and with frequent visits and technology, this family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry: New Day, New Dreams (2013), Finding a Balance (2015), Ever So Gently (2023), and King Copper (2025). In 2021, she released her memoir, More than Coffee. Her first children’s book, Cora’s Quest, was published in 2024. Lauren has been a guest on several podcasts, and her writing is featured at Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations. At Spillwords Press, she was awarded Publication of the Year (Poetic 2026), Author of the Month (May 2023) and Publication of the Month (June 2025, October 2024). Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers Chapter of the California Writers Club, and her poem “Wings” was named Honorable Mention in their 2026 Smalls Too Poetry Contest. Lauren’s work is published in six anthologies. Her muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, and marveling at the mysteries of life. 

    Click on the image to purchase your copy! 🧡