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! 💜💜💜

Redwood Magic

On October 21, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry67 Comments

My hubby and I recently visited our favorite park to hang out with the redwoods. As always, a poem was to be born, but this time, two…I’m sharing a few photos along with the poems that I hope you enjoy and maybe even relate to. Does one speak to you more deeply than the other? I’d love to hear your thoughts…

Magic

We needed
magic today,
an elixir
for our spirits,
so our favorite park
sent gentle whispers
on the autumn breeze
as we listened
with intent.
Just a short drive
on long stretches
and some winding
like an S.
We slowly enter
into this sanctuary,
another universe.

The enchantment
of redwoods
whirls around us,
a balm for our
hearts and minds.

We stroll along
the glistening creek,
observing the brilliant blue
from sun’s reflection.

The majesty
of the tall giants
embraces us –
a moment, a place,
an experience
good for the soul.

Their Gift

Do the redwoods
feel sorrow and elation?

Can they sense the heaviness
in our hearts as we wander
through the grove?

We may never know
the answer, but being
in their presence
deters thoughts that
shouldn’t be let loose.

Their majestic aura,
a protective embrace,
welcomed as we inhale
their delicate fragrance
of earthy undertones.

I feel the beat of my heart
slowing – a calm flowing
through my veins.
He experiences the same.

Fingers entwined, we stroll
among the tall giants,
a family connected
through deep roots,
and we offer our
sincerest gratitude
for their selfless gift.

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

Thanks so much for dropping in today! ❤️

Finding peace…

On October 18, 2023October 18, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Discussion, Poetry116 Comments

Dear Friends,

I hope you’re doing well. Our family has been spending as much time as possible with my father-in-law who is nearing the end of his life. He is on hospice, living in a lovely facility with the best care. It has been difficult to witness his body failing, but the silver lining is that spending more time with him has been a gift – these moments have given us room to prepare for the inevitable. When he is lucid on occasion, the gift is even greater.

Writing poetry during my break has been soothing. This surreal experience has been emotional for all of us, but if it inspires me to write, my husband feels it’s a beautiful thing. I was motivated to try a Haibun for the first time after reading D.L. Finn’s gorgeous poetry book, Deep in the Forest Where Poetry Blooms. I loved her collection and will share a review and a couple others in the next few weeks.

This piece may not qualify as a Haibun, but it’s a beginning…

The Last Days

The outdoor temperature feels like a summer day in August though ghosts and goblins lurk around the bend. The orange ball shines brilliantly lighting up the clear blue sky. But inside his room, death awaits in the corners – a dreary atmosphere until we turn on lights to uplift our spirits. Classical music drifts out the windows, swirling around the trees and gardens still bursting with reds and oranges. Photos of family and friends, and ball caps from favorite sports teams embellish the bare white walls.

He lies in bed each day, body frail. A vision we hope will fade over time. A vision contrasting to the man who hiked mountains. The small clock ticking on the bedside table and the calendar hanging on the wall irrelevant. His words, an untranslatable language. His appetite, diminished, but it’s time for breakfast, so we pull the lids from each tub. He slightly opens his mouth like a mama bird feeds her chick, and we gently hold the spoon so he can take in tiny bites of pureed eggs and oatmeal. The tubs still look full, but so is his stomach. Sleep calls him. His chest slowly moves up and down with soft breaths. We stretch out this moment, then we lay a kiss on his forehead, tell him that we love him and that we’ll see him later. We steal one more glance at Dad, then we slowly walk out the door with tears struggling for freedom.

a routine until
he slowly draws his last breath
preparing our hearts

**A Haibun is a combination of prose and haiku, and usually includes autobiography, diary, essay, prose poem, short story, or travel journal.

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

Thanks so much for visiting, and I look forward to reading your posts again. ❤️

October’s Miracle

On October 2, 2023October 2, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry69 Comments

The drought was relentless. Then October arrived and so did the rain, feeling like a miracle! And this poem was born…

I forgot how the sound of rain could be soothing
like the calming rhythm of classical music.

The thirst for relief had felt longer than eternity,
for the soil exhaled and my lantana sang “Hallelujah!”

Silk-thread drizzles dusted rooftops and parched hills
with the flowing grace of an unhurried waterfall.

The fascination of puddles slipped my mind,
the childlike sense of play from a hop and a splash.

And who would think the sight of cocoa-brown mud
could be so entertaining in all its messiness!

Would you believe it if I said the flowers smiled at me?
And their leaves offered a gentle wave?

Observing from my slightly opened window,
I caught a grateful sigh from the soaked earth,
and I enjoyed listening to the roots laugh in delight.

**A poem from my book, Ever So Gently.**

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com – All rights reserved.
Photo: My daughter, Stephanie

Wishing you a warm and lovely October! 🍁🍂🍁

My latest collection of poetry –
I prompt 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.
Please click on the link to purchase your copy.
Thank you to those who have bought a copy and who have shared wonderful
reviews. My heart is full of gratitude. 💙🩵💙

Thank you for visiting today. Have a wonderful day and week ahead! ❤️

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.

Happy Friday! Today is the last day to vote!

On September 29, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Nominations & Awards, Poetry40 Comments

As I stated in my previous post, I am honored that my poem “Chilling Embrace” is nominated, and today is the last day to vote for Publication of the Month at Spillwords Press. I hope you’ll support me!

Here is the link: https://spillwords.com/vote/ and you’ll have to log in to vote.

Thanks SO much to you who have already voted! My heart is full of gratitude regardless of the outcome!

And Thank You to Dagmara and her team for offering their site as a home for my poetry!

Chilling Embrace

I have been embraced
by the chilling presence
of loneliness.
I have wondered
where the niche
designed for me
exists in this world
in which my breaths
originate.
I have waited
for the glow
to emerge from
behind the shadows.

But when I take
that wise step
into the splendor
of nature,
listen to the trees
whisper their sagacity,
feel the flowing rivers
move my pain,
creating vast distance
between it and me,
I have been revived
by the compassion
that nature offers
so unselfishly.

Thanks for visiting today, and I wish you a Fabulous Friday and weekend ahead!!! ❤️🙏🏻🎉

Nomination from Spillwords Press!

On September 26, 2023September 26, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Nominations & Awards, Poetry80 Comments

Dear Family and Friends,

I am excited to share that my poem “Chilling Embrace” which was recently published at Spillwords Press has been nominated for Publication of the Month. The email that brightened my day is below:

Dear writers,

We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you! Your exceptional pieces have been nominated due to popular demand for Publication of The Month of September.

You have the power to decide the winner by casting your vote here: https://spillwords.com/vote/

We also encourage you to share this link with your family, friends, and supporters, as their votes can make all the difference.

Please note that voting will conclude on 9/29, and soon after, we will reveal the well-deserved recipient of this prestigious title.

To vote, kindly register and/or log in to ensure your voice is heard.

The winning publication will be prominently featured on the Spillwords.com sidebar throughout the entire month of October, gaining well-deserved recognition from our global audience.

HERE ARE THE NOMINEES:

Fever by Suman Pokhrel
The Falling Man by Stephen Kingsnorth
Kings of The Water by Tim Barlow
Chilling Embrace by Lauren Scott
Love Lane by Simona Prilogan
Two Black Cats by Tamara Lindsay
Ruth by James Walmsley
True by Ivor Steven
You’re No Good For Me by Sheila Henry
Rubble Women by David Milner
Harvest by Elaine Nadal
Unobtainable by S.J. Walker
Two Weeks Today by Elizabeth Ricketson
Endless Scale by Vasile Trif

To all the nominees, good luck! Your contributions have enriched our platform, and we deeply appreciate your excellent collaboration and participation.

Warm regards,

Editing Team | Editing Department
editor@spillwords.com

Chilling Embrace

A Big Thank You to Dagmara K. and her team for publishing my poem and for this wonderful nomination!

** Please remember that you’ll need to log into Spillwords to vote, and voting is happening now and will end on Friday, September 29th.
Thanks so much for your kind support! ❤️🙏🏻

Book review of In the Shadow of Rainbows by Selma Martin!

On September 26, 2023September 26, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews, Poetry56 Comments

Dear Friends,

I introduced my wonderful friend, Selma Martin, in my prior post here, and spotlighted her debut poetry book. Today I am sharing my 5-star review. If you don’t have your copy in hand yet, I recommend you click on the link below to order yours!

And now for my review:

When I immersed myself into Selma Martin’s debut poetry book, I fell into a familiar place like I was relaxing on the sandy shore of the lake that my husband and I frequent each summer, absorbing the music and tranquility of nature. The essence of her poems drew me in, casting me under a spell, entranced by her lyrical words. I read this collection over a few evenings, savoring the experience like a sinfully delicious dessert, and rereading each poem. Selma’s lovely language portrays stunning imagery, beautifully expressing personal experiences. Shadows and rainbows find themselves sprinkled throughout, and the writing is superb with its soothing flow, cadence, and rhyme.

Selma’s special wish is for you to find your poem. A poem that resonates, the soft message flowing around in your heart and mind, embracing you like a welcomed hug. But as I read each beautiful piece then with each turn of a page, a sigh escaped, and I realized that finding one poem was impractical because there were so many that rang true with my experiences and emotions.

In “Extra” I am reminded of how precious it is to wake up to a new dawn:

To put the squanderer to rest
call forth the Sower of hope
and from within, bring out your best.

I revel in spending time outdoors, and Selma’s writing in “You Know Her” is brilliant:

Like clockwork, she steals over the horizon
and for a moment, hides between the blinds
Slowly she sluices me with her aura
And on my eyelashes, perches twined.

Her enchanting verses in “That Sea” captivate me:

Then you dwarf me with your magnificence
I smile, so fond of your temerity
But you gobble up my words the moment they’re spoken
and cunningly, you bid me close to wet my skirt.

“Nature’s Tender Doings” is absolutely delightful, and in “Poetry” – a most endearing poem, I am thoroughly entertained and charmed by the bees, squirrels, and birds. Changing subjects dramatically, I’d be lying if I said I never thought of death. With adult children and our 35th anniversary just around the corner, time passes quicker than I can flip the calendar page each month. But I don’t fear death; I’m just not ready for it, and Selma’s poem “When Death Comes” makes me pause…

When death comes
I don’t want to look back
lovelorn, empty, frightened
– Oh, no!
When death comes
I want to be led into eternity
curious, full of joy
knowing the world I leave
is better for the love I gave.

I definitely want the same, and I will remember this poignant reminder about love being the best gift of all.

The empowering and unified motivation in “Enough” gives me goosebumps:

Forget tall fences. You want to feel
the sun on your face, the touch
of the wind, the melody of their
spoken language, of which only the
smile you understand. Together we
can create a life that ebbs and flows
like the tide that never competes or
berates the other for its ways.

I could continue to enrich you with stunning samples of Selma’s exquisite poetry. But if I have to choose one poem that stirs emotions, it will be “Kindred” because this poem transports me back in time when my parents were alive, to the big family gatherings with them, my husband and children, and my sisters and their families. Moments filled with love, chatter, and laughter. Memories that slide into my mind now and then, warming my heart once again.

A verse from this touching poem:

For the rest of my days,
when December comes slip sliding
humble love memories I trace – decidedly December.
Daddy brought us white Christmases
to revel and boast,
and Mommy brought us Yuletide joy to last forever.

Truthfully, Selma’s entire collection is a gift that speaks to me in the most elegant and personal way. I highly recommend this beautiful collection for all poetry lovers who wish to be reminded of the miracles of life.

I hope you enjoyed my review!

Thanks so much for visiting today! ❤️❤️❤️