Last week I was under the weather when Hazel from sevensisterslove.com posted her wonderful review of Cora’s Quest. So I told her that I would share it this week when I felt more human. Hazel is lovely and if you haven’t met her, she loves to read, write, and explore. Her blog is for sharing her personal and professional life, aiming to spread love, kindness, inspiration, and positivity through her stories, which are mostly about her life in a remote place in the Philippines. You get to meet the special people and pets in her life, and she loves helping authors by sharing her book reviews. The photos she includes are beautiful and heartwarming. So, please pay her a visit!
A heartwarming story with vibrant illustrations, Lauren Scott’s Cora’s Quest is a delight to young readers.
Fawn Cora was with her parents in the wilderness when she saw a tiny orange caterpillar that made her pause and say hello. That amazement led her to being lost in the dark forest where bears, owls, and other animals were howling, making her shiver. Being alone in the wild was scary, but it taught her that courage is just always within her...
To read the full review which includes two precious family photos, click on the link above. ⬆️💜
Thanks again, Hazel, for brightening my day, especially when I wasn’t feeling my best. I’m so glad you enjoyed Cora’s tale with a message for all ages…we all have courage inside us; we just need to let it shine.
Cora’s Quest is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Whether you have little ones in your life or not, I hope you’ll invite Courageous Cora into your hearts! And if you enjoy reading about her quest, please consider sharing your review on Amazon and/or Goodreads because reviews are like hugs for Indie Authors. 🤗
I hope June is treating you all well, and I’ll be visiting blogs slowly but surely.
Thanks for stopping by! With love, hugs, and kindness! ❤️
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.
As Indie Authors, self-promotion is a must, but I loathe this part of publishing books. Yet, if not me, then who or whom? You know I don’t sell books for the money. If that were the case, I’d be in serious trouble. My expenses outweigh the profits with a substantial lead. Publishing my books began and will continue as a legacy for my family. And when I read reviews and learn how my writing resonated or touched the hearts of others, this is the true reward that surpasses monetary compensation. I haven’t done a promotional post in awhile, but for those of you who are new to my blog, this post might be of interest, or maybe some of you long-time friends aren’t familiar with my older books. I hope you enjoy these tidbits that I pulled from 5-star reviews:
~ Thoughts by Diana Peach, Author of Tale of the Seasons’ Weaver
This is the second book of Scott’s poetry that I’ve read. And I enjoyed it as much, if not more, than the first. Scott’s collection includes free form poetry, both with and without subtle rhyming. The poems feel personal, poignant, and from the heart, and many reflect the nature of love in its varied forms. Family relationships provide much of the fodder for reflection. There were so many poems I enjoyed that I stopped making notes. Some are touching and sentimental like “Morning After.” A poem called “Bananas” had me laughing with its silliness, and “Raindrops and Coffee” has wonderful imagery and a staccato rhythm (like raindrops). Other favorites were “In Loving Memory of Mom,” “Winter’s Lane,” and “Reflections.” Highly recommended for poetry readers who enjoy touching poems about life and family.
“Finding a Balance is a collection of beautiful poems that speak to the daily emotions of life and, in particular, the pain and sadness of her journey along the path of a life threatening illness in a family member. Both my sons have suffered, and continue to suffer, chronic illnesses so this is something that is close to my own heart and to which I intimately related. Seeing our loved ones in pain and ill and not being able to do anything about it is one of the heaviest burdens a mother can bear. These words say it all from “Reality’s Edge”:
“Shaking my head, I lie in beads of sweat’ gripping the edge, waiting to fall into the depths …”
…Not all the poems are about chronic illness. Many are about the poet’s love for her family and her husband of 26 years. There are some delightful romantic poems in this collection.”
“This is an extraordinary book and one that I could not put down. Scott captures the reader with her love for coffee, endearing tales, and the courage to live life to the fullest. Her exceptional writing resonates deeply with my own values, history, and love of storytelling. It is a charming book of prose and poems that will warm your heart and lift your soul. Scott highlights the beauty of marriage, friendship, and the love of family so beautifully, from the first story to the last poem, I felt as if I belonged in the pages of this delightful book. Scott explores all the facets of life, including love and sadness, gratitude and loss, humor and joy. She takes me on a familiar journey of a complicated life, including encounters with aggressive spiders, sacred heirlooms, grief, and long-distance relationships with grown children. I have Scott’s book by my bedside, within reach, so I can enjoy again and again her incredible knack for drawing one into a story, her arresting poetry, and the potency of a well-told story.”
~ Thoughts by Balroop Singh, Author of Beyond the Fetters
“Scott’s poetry celebrates memories and moments in her latest collection – ‘Ever So Gently.’ Her connection with the surroundings blends into the wisdom of nature that unfolds through stunning imagery like: “hear the rustle of a skittering squirrel,” “petals of velvet invite raindrops to bask in their peach enchantment,” and “breeze carries burdens down rivers.” From the birds that ‘flit and flutter’ to build their nest to the owl who proclaims his presence with his ‘high-pitched toots’ and the hummingbirds that flutter around the “bright pink petals” – all find a place of honor in this book to delight your moods. Lauren’s realism captivates and appeals to all the senses. From ‘The Peach Rose’ to ‘Firestorm’ and not to forget ‘I Was Adopted,’ her poetry slides most naturally on the wide canvas of creativity. Some more examples of Scott’s brilliant style:
“And water hasn’t caressed the hills The earth, parched like Chile’s Atacama.” “Silk-thread drizzles dusted rooftops and parched hills.”
~ Thoughts by Brian, Writing from the Heart with Brian
“The world can sometimes be a dark and scary place, but like the little fawn Cora in Cora’s Quest, we all need to remind ourselves that “my body may be small, but my courage is big.” Cora finds herself separated from her ma and pa on a dark trail. She fears the worst, but reminds herself to be strong and courageous. I’ve been repeating Cora’s message in my head frequently the past several weeks and it’s brought a smile to my face and hope to my heart. Lauren has created an enchanted story that’s perfect for the young and young at heart. I should add that the artwork by Chris Mendez is out of this world. The images and colors jump off the page. Cora’s Quest would be great to give as a gift or treat for yourself. I could see this book becoming a treasured part of the reading routine for little ones of every age. It’s a beautiful book and keepsake.”
“I was excited/nervous to read Lauren’s tribute to her beloved Copper. Excited because I know it was a labor of utmost love for Lauren. Nervous because I knew “King Copper” would prompt tears. Lauren writes with powerful poignancy. I embraced every word. Some tore at me, expressions familiar and raw about losing a predictable household rhythm…wrapped in fur. But so many words made me smile. Scratch that. Grin. I’m keeping my copy of “King Copper” at my desk, sitting next to my favorite basket. Such a face…such a sweet soul. Maybe he’ll find his way to a bookshelf, but not yet. This review is more than praise. It’s my heartfelt endorsement…perhaps a plea. “King Copper” is a worthy addition to your family library. A book you’ll want to recommend – just as I have – to dear ones experiencing loss. There’s comfort on every page, thanks to Lauren and her family. Thanks to Copper himself:
“I never went away; I’m sitting by your side. My love for you runs far and wide; I’ll never go astray.”
I’m grateful for those who have welcomed my books into their hearts and homes, and who have shared thoughts on Amazon and/or Goodreads. Reviews are like hugs for Indie Authors and who doesn’t love a hug?
Thank you for taking the time in your busy schedule to pop in to my corner of blogland and read about my books. Did you find common themes? Themes that would interest you?
If you’d like to purchase a copy, just click on the book titles that will gently carry you over to Amazon. Below are additional links, as well:
Lauren Scott is a recent 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, a memoir in verse and prose, and her first children’s book. She 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). Her work was named Honorable Mention in The Smalls Too 2026 Poetry Contest from the California Writer’s Club. Lauren’s work is published in several anthologies. She is currently working on her second children’s book and a collection of poetry. Lauren’s muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, and marveling at the mysteries of life.
A couple days ago, Nicole at Starry Steps, surprised me with her delightful review of Cora’s Quest. But before I lead you to her review, I want to share about her beautiful books:
I loved this poetry collection and gave it 5 glowing stars:
“Rhyming Dreams by Nicole Sara is the author’s debut poetry collection, but you wouldn’t know it. Reading through this stunning gathering of poems is like strolling through an enchanted forest, which ties into Nicole’s words, “…the magic of nature’s rustle and long dreamy flights of imagination…”
You can read the rest of my review on Amazon and Goodreads or here.
I also just recently finished reading her latest release, The Blues and the Beautiful, which felt like another stroll through an enchanted forest. I’ll share my review along with others before Christmas. Date TBD. 🙂
Both of Nicole’s beautiful books are must reads, so I encourage you to add them to your holiday shopping list! And now, for her delightful review of Cora’s Quest:
“Cora’s Quest” is a sweet story about a baby fawn who loses her way in the woods when she notices a caterpillar and being fascinated by it, she stops to say hello. Suddenly finding herself alone in the forest, Cora has to overcome her feelings of fear without the company of her parents, and find a way to stay calm in order to gather her courage and strength.
This lovely children’s book by Lauren Scott is beautifully illustrated, so little children will be able to enjoy the story being read to them while looking at very cute colorful images of Cora’s little adventure…
Additionally, Nicole shares her fabulous review of Too Much Fun to Be Legal by Nolcha Fox and Barbara Leonhard, which I also recommend! Please visit her blog to read the full reviews of both books. And I invite you to write down these titles on your holiday shopping list, or type them into your cell phone. On Cora’s adventure, she learns a valuable life lesson that will resonate with all ages, even adults! 😊
A huge thanks again to Nicole for her lovely review and big heart in supporting fellow Indie Authors! ❤️🙏
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thanks for popping in today, and Happy Friday! Wishing you a fabulous weekend too! ❤️🎄
We miss Copper this holiday season, but we’ll find comfort in the photos of him by the tree, wearing a Santa hat, or snoozing by the fire. If you’d like to order a copy, or know someone who would find comfort in this special collection, please click on the link. Thank you. xo
I’m combining several things in this post, so make yourself comfortable and pour a glass of your favorite cold or hot drink! To begin with, I had the opportunity to read my book, Cora’s Quest, at our local library. This was a ‘first’ for me, other than the reading at the book fair in May. Seven children and their moms arrived with attentive hearts and minds, and it was wonderful, to say the least. I don’t have many photos because the kids’ faces can’t be seen, but these give you an idea.
I spoke a little before I began reading, and then I had several questions for the children afterwards. They answered and were adorable, not to mention, smart! A few moms chimed in too! And a couple of the moms mentioned to me that they really loved the message in the story: To remember that we always have courage inside of us and to stay calm when we’re feeling afraid.
I had several giveaways: stickers, bookmarks, puppets, and coloring pages, and many of the kids had fun coloring at the table. And I sold some books, which wasn’t the main goal. First of all, I hoped for a decent number of kids to show up, which happened. Then of course, I hoped that the children and parents loved the book, which they did by clapping at the end of the reading. I have to add that all the kids left with a sticker on their shirt or dress, and some of the moms did the same. I had a happy heart, and they all loved Cora! So, that evening, Matt and I toasted with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to my success! 🥂
Now as for respite, this will be my last post until the first week of December. It’s time to prepare for the big day, Thanksgiving, and excited to see our kids while also reflecting upon past memories of our parents whom have all passed away. Not to mention, our lovable dogs, and Copper, who we still miss so much. They’re having lots of fun together over the Rainbow Bridge. 🌈
Speaking of Copper, yesterday afternoon I was really missing him and my emotions got the best of me. I was sitting at my desk and happen to look out the window, and what did I see? Our neighbor’s gray cat relaxing on our patio chair. She was all curled up and quite cozy and comfortable. I felt like something bigger was at play because of my longing to hug Copper one more time, and knowing that this holiday season will be our first without him. Sigh.
the timing was purrrfect Copper loved this time of year, and he definitely was a regal boy. 🧡
Lastly, I leave you with old poetic thoughts for Thanksgiving. So, to those who celebrate this holiday, I wish you a blessed day, and to those who don’t, I wish you a blessed day!
Below is a poem I give to you all! ❤️
Thanksgiving Thoughts
Born from history a day we celebrate blessings in our lives, for each breath we take but some live in darkness with light, imaginary living to survive is anything but sanctuary I hold them in my heart, though trite to some ears In moments of surrender, I give freedom to tears
So, I ask not for anything but one gift I will bring to the feast laid before me where all should dance with glee a piece of me that I impart is my very grateful heart.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I’ll see you in December to resume my blogging routine, so be well, be safe, be happy. Sending love! ❤️
Lauren Scott Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book) Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology Co-Author – This Is How We Grow Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships Bi-Monthly Contributor on Gobblers by Masticadores Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023 Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024 Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025
I was delightfully surprised to find Cora’s Quest included in Sally’s post with Sue Wickstead’s, Bus Rhymes and Playtimes, and Pamela S. Wight’s, Petey Wants Wings. I’m honored to be in the great company of these two talented children’s book authors! Thank you, Sally, for your generous heart that enjoys showcasing your fellow writers!You’re a rock star! 🌟
Comments are closed to nudge you over to Sally’s beautiful blog. Please give her some love while learning about these recommended children’s books. 🙏
Also, I don’t like to ask, but sometimes we have to do things that feel uncomfortable. So, if you enjoyed Cora’s Quest or King Copper, I hope you’ll consider leaving a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads. Thank you! ☺️
Lastly, what can I say? The last two weeks have been wild in a wonderful way! Like Balroop and Dawn said, Copper has become the darling of blogland, an overnight celebrity. Aww, Copper Boy, I’m teary-eyed as I type. I know he is romping around with pure joy, knowing that he is loved, and that other pet parents are relating to the sentiments in ‘his book.’ Thanks again to all of you who have offered your loving support throughout this journey, and also from the beginning after that fateful day in March. ❤️🤎❤️
Happy Friday, and I wish you a wonderful weekend! ❤️🎉
I woke up this morning to a message from Carol Anne that her review for Cora’s Quest is live. What a surprise and an exciting way to begin my Sunday. Her review is amazing and so in depth that has me over the moon (again)! Please click on the link below to read the full review. Carol Anne is a fabulous writer at Therapy Bits, so I hope you take the time to get to know her if you haven’t already had the pleasure. I am thrilled with the positive feedback I’ve received about Cora’s Quest, especially since this story about a sweet fawn was my first children’s book. 🙏
And now a little heads up about King Copper: a blog tour is rapidly unfolding, and I am so grateful to my friends who have offered to host my new special poetry collection. Below is a rough schedule subject to changes. So, I’ll reblog their posts with my comments turned off (hopefully, I’ll remember to do this), so that you’ll softly be nudged to visit their blogs.
I apologize in advance if these repeated blog posts become redundant, but unfortunately, marketing our own books is the nature of the game for Indie Authors. However, each blog post will include different poems to (hopefully) hold your interest. 🥰
Anyway, thank you for your support and time spent here in my world. And if you read about Cora and/or Copper, I hope you take away Cora’s vital message about ‘discovering your courage’, and that you find comfort reading about Copper if you’re a dog or furry pet parent. I wish you a wonderful week ahead. ❤️
I’m over the moon that Barbara Leonhard, Editor of Masticadores USA, shares her 5-star review of Cora’s Quest on her blog, https://extraordinarysunshineweaver.blog/, where she presents her poetry and written works of fellow authors, along with book reviews. Thanks so much, Barbara!
A snippet from her review:
Lauren Scott’s latest book, Cora’s Quest, is an endearing short story about how a fawn’s temporary separation from her parents teaches her how to manage fear. Lauren Scott’s tale reinforces the important role a family plays as a protector and a child’s ability to endure a difficult challenge…
To read the full review and Barbara’s thoughts that preface Cora’s story, please click on the link below that will gently carry you to her blog. I hope you’ll be generous enough to ‘like’ the post and maybe leave a comment too. We both would love to read your thoughts. 🙏 She also has a lot to offer, so I hope you’ll take some time to peruse around her site.
This week has been busier than expected, so I’m behind on reading blogs. But I’ll have more time this morning and later this afternoon. As always, I appreciate your presence here and wish you a fabulous day! ❤️
Available on Amazon, and Barnes & Noble, but click on the image to purchase your copy through Amazon.And a friendly nudge to share a review online if you loved Cora’s Quest. Thanks so much! 💜
Book Fair from May 17th – Fabulous and Successful!
I’m excited to share that I was interviewed by Editor, Barbara Leonhard, at MasticadoresUsa about my latest children’s book, Cora’s Quest, and she features our conversation on her blog today. Please visit her site to read the interview, and while you’re there, peruse around. You’ll discover poetry of many talented authors, and you’ll probably know most of them. Thank you so much, Barbara!
I appreciate your visit, and thanks again, Barbara, for inviting me to your wonderful site! 💕🌷
Have a peaceful weekend, Everyone! ❤️
By the way, I recently renovated my blog, so it would be wonderful if you ‘liked’ my Home Page. And if you haven’t already, leave a comment on my guestbook (started 14 years ago). Thank you! 🥰
Available on Amazon, and Barnes & Noble, but click on the image to purchase your copy through Amazon.And a friendly nudge to share a review online if you loved Cora’s Quest. Thanks so much! 💜
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author & Poet 