Book Reviews: Fiction & Poetry Something for everyone!

On October 24, 2023October 23, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews68 Comments

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.

To buy your copy, please click on the
image. Thank you!

Thank you to those who have purchased your copy of Ever So Gently,
and who have shared beautiful reviews. 🩵

I always appreciate your visit and wish you a Terrific Tuesday! 💜💜💜

Cindy at Unique Times Reviews Ever So Gently

On September 30, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews, Poetry64 Comments

Lately, my days are spent ‘over the moon’ because of the incredible reviews coming in for my book, Ever So Gently. Cindy at Unique Times shared her lovely review of my book, and once you read it, you’ll know why I love that moon!

Cindy is a wonderful friend in this community. She is generous, funny, kind, uplifting, and real. She also recently published her debut book,
Re-Create & Celebrate: 7 Steps To Turn Your Dreams Into Reality that can be purchased here.
“Through her transformational techniques and practices, which she has gained from decades of experience in the field of life coaching, she provides a teaching memoir and workbook containing the tools to build a blueprint to a life of fulfillment, inner peace and happiness.”
Check out the 5-star reviews on Amazon where you’ll also find mine, and if you don’t already have Cindy’s book sitting on your coffee table, get your copy now!

And now for Cindy’s awesome review of Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poems:

Ever So Gently is A Collection of Poems by author, Lauren Scott, who walks us through her day with the first encounter of morning light “Ever So Gently” to start our day. I’m absolutely delighted to share her latest book with you and share some of my favorite poems from her wonderful new book.

If you haven’t met Lauren yet, you’re in for a treat. Lauren lights up our blogging world in the most supportive of ways with her comments and support of other writers. I am always inspired by how much she is able to do working, caring for her FIL, children, husband and writing reviews.

Her book is divided into 3 segments to set the tone and is an entree into all of the flavors of her writing which is beautiful, sometimes whimsical, inspiring, and always insightful.

~ The Wisdom of Nature takes you on a journey of her daily encounters with the great outdoors.

~ The Noise, The Laughter, The Chaos, The Loved Ones represents all of characters in her life that are so endearing to her.

~ Lost In Thought is an inner journey of her insights, questions and joy through her observations.

Each transports you into her inner world of reflection that give her life meaning and richness.

In her first section you can feel her words float through the winds by her well articulated choice of words which beacon you to sit and take in the horizon or get up close and personal to the hummer and ponder questions as you bask in the moment.

She starts off with a poignant poem to give you a glimmer into her mornings with her beloved at her side to share it with. You can almost feel the respite of their lovely setting in their Marin home in a gentle tranquil setting with their dog, Copper, underfoot.

When we stroll among the redwood trees,
our steps slow down, we are in good company.
There is no reason to rush and we won’t hesitate
to hug them with open arms, because why not?
They deserve reverence for their generosity.
In their company, fine fibers of peace
flow through our hearts and souls,
centering us. Any worries burdening our minds
fall to the earth to be walked upon and buried.
We listen as the leaves whisper in the breeze,
Be filled with joy and do not fret,
for their is no time for that nonsense.

Her words are a journey much like the ones we are all on but unique to her personal insights, experience and family.

Lauren’s love of connection with nature and people ring through on every page paying homage to each one that has touched her heart in a most powerful and profound way. Her poems epitomize the sacred time with family and friends.

She knows loss and shares that in many of her poems but the one that shines through to me the most is the one about her mom who is near and dear to her heart.

Mom’s Plea

I remember our conversation….
the effort it took
to calm my emotions,
phone glued to my ear
like a natural extension.
Days later Mom asked Dad,
“When will this be over?”
He could be gentle or
travel the path of honesty.
I don’t know the words
he pulled from
a seventy-year love….
how he tenderly tiptoed
through the syllables,
since his heart
was shattering
into millions
of tiny fragments.
Her time was close.
Our awareness vigilant.
Each day,
another breath held
until the hands of time
would pause.
Then as quickly
as a gray sky opens
on a winter day,
she had ascended.
Memories of her
loving spirit
followed in the
years to come.
But not one day passes
without her gracing our
thoughts.
Not one day slips by
without her knowing
our lives are changed
forever.

She captures the essence of the moment with her poetic charm and style, leaving you able to ponder your thoughts.

This is Scott’s 4th book that impresses upon the reader just how special and sacred each day is.

In the lost in thought she explores a range of emotions which beg for answers and an invitation to explore your inner world. I loved her poem in this segment,

Maybe

When you sit by the window,
evading life’s demands
watching hummingbirds
flit about, do you wonder
if our existence is the only
breathing form?
Who’s to assume we’re alone
with stars millions of miles
away glistening in the night?
Maybe other beings wonder
if they are simply
a tiny atom or molecule
floating in the larger picture.
Maybe we’re just a raindrop
in someone else’s universe.

Each word is peppered with her love and memory of her parents, her soulmate, Matt, whom every moment is one of wonderment and joy, her children and the love they share. A delightful read with your morning Coffee or tea or sitting in your garden for an afternoon pick me up.
~Cindy at Unique Times

**If you don’t also have this collection sitting on**
**your coffee table** **, click on the image to purchase**. 💚

I can’t thank you enough, Cindy! Just knowing your takeaways from my book are rewarding, and then your amazing review is the icing on the cake. And thanks to everyone who has bought my book and shared their wonderful reviews! 🙏🏻

My wish for you after reading this poetry collection is that you’ll discover a few poems that evoke a special memory or act as a reminder that you are not alone in living with your emotions. Maybe you’ll get a good laugh or experience an ‘aha’ moment. Above all, when you turn the last page, may you discover the reward of living ever so gently. 🩵

Thank you so much for stopping by today! ❤️

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

Hospice Wings

On August 28, 2023August 29, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry84 Comments

He sees
emerald rolling hills
and brilliant blue skies
that stretch forever.

He sees a train rolling by,
the passengers wave,
cars float in the clouds,
a wire suspended between lips,
a lady painted on the door,

but he listens,
he understands,

his appetite takes in small bites,
slow swallowing,
juice flows fluidly through
a flexible straw,

yesterday, cranberry flavors
made him smile.
Today, he winced at the thought.

We hold his hand,
sometimes, he doesn’t let go.

We say, “I love you.”

He repeats these words,
then adds
“More than you know.”

Each day differs.
Each day surprises.
Each day is heartbreaking
as we wait…

My latest release – Click on the image to purchase your copy!

Thank you for visiting! ❤️

Resa elegantly talks about Ever So Gently…

On August 20, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry50 Comments

Today, I am more than excited to be featured on Resa’s blog. If you know Resa, you’ll understand how her words about my poetry collection fit exquisitely. Here’s a glimpse of what she felt:

“I read the poems in order, but not at first. Deciding to try a different approach, I dove into the book like it was a box of chocolates. I read whatever poem in any order, as the fancy lead. Yet, as delicious as it all was; it’s more than confection.

It’s like collecting beautiful fabrics and trims. Poems were read, materials collected and a pattern designed. When the poems were over, they had draped a rich, beautifully adorned gown over my spirit.”

To read the full interview with her gorgeous images and creativity, please visit her post.

Thanks again SO much, Resa! ❤️❤️

Ever So Gently – by Lauren Scott

The celebrations and preparations…

On August 10, 2023August 12, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Discussion, Photos, Poetry49 Comments

Dear Friends,

It has been a wild, exciting ride with the launch of my new book and all the wonderful support I’ve been given. But in the midst of the excitement, my father-in-law has been on hospice for almost two weeks, and it’s been tough, to say the least. A surreal time, waiting for the inevitable. But his large support circle ensures that he is comfortable and loved, which is most important.

Before he started to decline, we already had our backpacking trip reserved in the Sierra Mountains, but with his encouragement, we are still going. Although, due to my foot issue, we decided that I shouldn’t push it. My foot has been cooperating, but I’d hate to overdo it and take five steps backwards. So, we’re camping. We’ll be relaxing by the lake, surrounded by ponderosa pines and nature’s warm embrace. And this is really what we need. My brother-in-law will ‘hold down the fort’ while we’re gone. He also told us to go. “Dad wants you to enjoy the adventure.” We will have our Spot X satellite device though to stay in touch. And obviously, if something changes before we plan to leave, we won’t go. Always ‘one day at a time.’

So, I’ll be offline next week and will return the following week of the 21st. The photo above is from one of our trips to our favorite Sierra lake, and the poem below is in my book and one I wrote while sitting on the shore in the company of the smooth water, and journal and pen (and hubby, of course.)

The Sun Knows

Evening advances.
The shore wears nothing
but a few rocks
scattered on its sand.
In their quiet space,
a father and son hold fishing lines
hoping their luck will lift.
A lone sailboat glides by
pausing for the unfolding.
With hair the color of an egret,
an older man leans against a stump.

Clouds understand why we wait.
A fine yellow highlighter
has delicately outlined
their smooth edges.
Occasionally, trout jump
out of the still water,
only a few ripples
show their excitement.

Then suddenly the sky explodes
in tangerines, salmons, canary yellows –
brighter with every second.
It’s as though a painter swished
her brush back and forth
on the immense backdrop,
to the left, to the right,
repeating with the grace
of an orchestra leader.
Can the sun slipping behind
downy clouds
be more spectacular?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The blog tour will continue when I return and I have to share two more beautiful reviews:

Reading Ms. Scott’s poetry is like roaming the pages of a spiritual book and you can feel a connection. Upon picking up this book I first read “Ever So Gently” and felt an instant connection, as I’ve lived such moments myself during bushcrafting adventures, connected to nature and all of creation. As I continue to read, each poem is equally as deep and reveals not only the writers soul, but my own.
~ Scott Mitchell – Lauren Scott will touch your soul. 5 stars

What an endearing gathering of short poems, some written as Haiku and other syllabic poetry, but all comforting, calming, restorative. Presented in three sections, these verses pose the wonder of nature, the love of family, even the delight of a pet. An elegant medley.
~ Joy Neal Kidney – An endearing collection. 5 stars

I am humbled and grateful for these lovely reviews, and I want to thank you all for the ‘book’ support, the visits, the comments, and the love.
So, have a Fabulous week! Stay well and Be happy!

Sending virtual hugs out to you all,

Lauren ❤️

Comments have been closed.

Book release: Ever So Gently!!!!!

On July 31, 2023July 31, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Books, Poetry99 Comments

I am thrilled to announce the release of my new poetry collection, Ever So Gently! But first let me tell you the meaning behind the title…

I had organized this 90-poem collection into three parts: Nature, Love, and Life, and yet a book title still remained in hiding. And then one of my poems stood out titled, “Ever So Gently” and it’s as though a lightbulb turned on. Everything clicked. Then I began to ponder how we live each day. It’s easy to live ‘gently’ when things happen according to our plans. But what if they don’t? What if heartache befalls us? Do we react ‘gently’ or do we press the panic button? I’ve done both, but I’m trying to focus on ‘gentle.’ And while in this mindset, I thought of the love my heart has felt, the tranquility and companionship of nature, and the good and not so good that life has tossed my way. So, I offer you the beginning of my introduction in the book…

“Ever So Gently expresses the gentle demeanor in which I welcome nature’s offerings. The gentle way in which I should react to life’s challenges. The gentle grace in my heart full of gratitude for the love in my life. For the support of family and friends through every stumble and celebration. When I witness another sunrise, I remember to breathe and live gently. But succeeding in ‘gentle’ may not happen around the clock, so if I slip up, I will try again.“

Fun fact: My son offered to create a book cover for me, so I told him that I wanted an organic design unlike my prior book covers, and I wanted soothing, gentle colors: pastel blues, greens, a little white. Bodies of water came to mind, a freshwater lake, a gentle flowing river, or the calming of the sea. So, to my surprise, instead of using the computer, he painted the cover on canvas. I couldn’t be more ecstatic with the beautiful, gloss paperback cover.
Thank you, Michael!

AVAILABLE IN PAPERBACK AND E-BOOK VERSIONS.

Book Blurb:

In Ever So Gently, Lauren Scott shares her strong link to nature, taking the reader on a tranquil walk through a redwood grove. You’ll find an invitation to sit quietly on a patio, captivated by the simple beauty of a hummingbird. She’ll entice you to revel on the shore of a freshwater lake, mesmerized by its stunning beauty.

Scott shares how love has shaped her life. From that first delicious kiss to celebrating decades of marriage through a love that deepens over time. How her heart melted when she became a mom, then ached when her children started their adult lives across country. And how her adorable canine companions found their way into her heart.

Scott underscores how life presents mysteries we struggle to solve. We can’t help but ponder the deeper meaning of a simple vision. She prompts you to reminisce and reflect on your past, present, and future. Through the ups and downs, what matters most is to love and live ever so gently.

I am so grateful to Robbie Cheadle for creating the incredible book trailer below with my photos. I get goosebumps each time I view and listen.
Thank you, Robbie!

And Thank You to Diana W. Peach for reading my book early and posting a beautiful 5-star review (below):

When I read Scott’s poetry, I know I’ll unearth thoughts and feelings deeply personal to her life, reflections that will undoubtedly resonate with mine. The experience of what it is to be human, the shared longings and losses, and the way love shapes our days is the thread that ties this collection together.

This book of about 90 poems is divided into three parts. The first is a peaceful exploration of nature; the second, Scott’s appreciation of the many forms of love in her life; and finally, a series of poems on a broader scope of thoughts. They’re all lovely and positive with an underlying theme of love and appreciation. This is a feel-good collection of both free-form and syllabic poetry that I’m delighted to recommend.

A few favorites: “The Hummingbird’s Quest” (from the section on nature). “The World is Broken,” “If the Universe would Share,” and “Mom’s Plea” (from the section on loved ones). “Maybe,” and “Other Worlds” (from the section on broader reflections). A romantic beauty:

The Giver

He pulls me
into myself so
I may see
qualities
he loved from the beginning
though his perception
runs deeper –
mine, a trace of clouds,
then he lifts
my heart and
soul to the starlit sky where
our dreams become us.

Another favorite of Diana’s:

The Hummingbird’s Quest

We hold our breath.
Its wings flutter at a possible
eighty times per second, so we’ve read.

It closes the distance between us,
and we know it eyes the dangling
rosy petals. But below those blossoms
lies the sleeping dog. He wouldn’t be
the least bit interested in the winged
creature, but the winged creature
doesn’t know this to be true.

And so, we watch our tiny friend
flit to within a few feet of the blooms,
then disappointment lands in our thoughts
as it retreats to the maple,
camouflaged to the naked eye.

If only it could be brave.
If only it knew there was no threat below
from the eighty-pound sleeping beast.
In fact, the beast quietly snores,
and we are confident
he is dreaming of squirrels.

Robbie and Diana, along with these wonderful friends, are going to help promote my book in their special, creative ways:

Robbie Cheadle
Diana W. Peach
Balroop Singh
Cindy Georgakas
Colleen Chesebro
Yvette Prior
Selma Martin
Sally Cronin

So, stay tuned! 🎉🎉
And, of course, I hope “Ever So Gently“ finds itself gently resting on your coffee table or in your device. But another wish is that you discover the reward of living ever so gently. 💜

Thanks for stopping by and for your support.
And please feel free to share to help spread the word!

~ Lauren ❤️🙏🏻🎉

Heartbeat

On July 20, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Stories68 Comments

Henry was engrossed in a gripping James Patterson novel when his heart jumped a beat. The second episode this week. It skipped again. He called his daughter in the kitchen, and her fingers found the buttons on her cell for emergency. The sun was setting on this Friday when paramedics arrived. Henry was soon x-rayed. Linda called her older sister, and they learned from Dr. Roberts that their elderly dad’s heart was giving up. They knew their parents would soon be reunited. Monday morning, their loving father took his last breath. He would once again dance with his sweetheart.

_____________________________________________________________________________

SPILLWORDS INTERVIEW IS LIVE TODAY!

On June 15, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Interviews, Writing97 Comments

Dear Family and Friends,

I am excited to share with you the Q & A I had the privilege of doing with Spillwords. This interview is aligned with being Author of the Month for May. Thank you again to Dagmara and her team for this incredible opportunity! I won’t repeat myself, so I’ll let you get to the questions…

We offer our first and exclusive Q&A Interview with Lauren Scott, a writer whose literary works have been featured on our Spillwords pages as well as being Author of the Month of May 2023.

What does it mean to be selected as Author of The Month?

I feel honored to receive this wonderful accolade, and I am grateful my family and friends took the time to vote for me. It means my writing has been acknowledged and gained valued exposure among talented authors on your esteemed, literary website.

How have your friends and/or family influenced your writing?

The support I receive from family and friends continually motivates me to write. My son nudged me to start a blog years ago, which has been a wonderful platform to share my writing. These loved ones have also assisted with my books in various ways. Their love and encouragement provides the fuel for me to stay on this path of creativity.

What inspires you to write?

I enjoy the challenge of wordplay, which probably stems from my enjoyment of playing Scrabble. Shaping words into phrases or sentences to express a deep emotion or to paint a picture. Many poems are inspired by my strong marriage, and then motherhood followed, which brought new emotions to the surface. I also feel a deep connection to nature, spending time outdoors, especially camping and backpacking. I find living in the wilderness with essentials tucked into a backpack to be a profound adventure.

I’ve asked for your support before, but I’d be grateful if you’d visit Spillwords.com to read the full interview. You can land there seamlessly by clicking here. 🦋

You don’t need an account to ❤️ the interview, but you do if you’d like to leave a comment, and I welcome your lovely comments here or there. 🙂