The Stars Align…

On October 25, 2023October 26, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews, Poetry68 Comments

While I was away from blogging, three more 5-star reviews gently flowed in for my book, Ever So Gently. These beautiful reviews added light to the initial reason for my break. And the true reward is learning how my poems resonate with others.
So for me, the stars align. ⭐️
Thank you again to Colleen, Robbie, and Miriam. I appreciate you all! ❤️🙏🏻

Another tidbit to share is that my son was recently visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, relaxing by Bear Lake at 9,500 feet elevation after a good hike while reading my book. You may remember that he painted the cover for me on canvas and also helped in the tedious formatting process. But he hadn’t read the poems. And my family is honest, so if there’s something they don’t like, they’ll tell me without hesitation (lovingly, of course). 🙂
Well, he absolutely loved the nature poems, and is currently reading the rest of the book. Fingers crossed, he feels the same way about part 2 and 3. Anyway, I love this photo he sent me and am grateful that my 28-year-old son is taking the time to read ‘his mom’s’ book. ❤️

And now for the wonderful reviews…

From Robbie:

Ever So Gently: A collection of poems is a beautiful memoir of the poet’s life and experiences, mellowed by experience and understanding, and told through carefully selected words. The poems are a mixture of freestyle and syllabic and share some vivid and delightful imagery that celebrates important moments in the poet’s life.

For me, the emphasis with this collection is on the softening of the poet’s attitude towards, and views, on life gained through experience and living. This message, reflected in the title “Ever So Gently” and the beautiful and peaceful cover, is wonderful and absorbing. Its subtle repetition throughout this book is like slipping into a warm bubble bath. It evokes the same delightful sense of peace and calm. My words must not be misunderstood to mean that none of the poems demonstrate moments of anguish and angst, as that is not the case. Those moments, that are so catastrophic and devastating to the poet at the time of occurrence are there, but their harshness is lessened through acceptance and understanding gained over the passage of time.

A few verses that I particularly enjoyed:

“A lone sailboat glides by
pausing for the unfolding.
With hair the color of an egret,
an older man leans against a stump.”
From The Sun Knows

“raindrops vacillate
layers hold their own secrets
delicate delight”
From The Peach Rose

“Each purl stitch was interwoven with love
from her gentle touch.
She, the teacher, me, the student,
as our bodies sank into the sofa
checkered in a 70’s palette.
From The Old Afghan

The two poems that I related to the most were The Mess and Young Campers, both about the poets children. This book is a celebration of life, the good and the less good.

From Colleen:

“Ever So Gently” asks us to accompany the author on a profound journey into the human condition seen through her own experiences. Scott has a way of making the mundane things in life a positive poetic event. That upbeat theme lasts throughout the book.

She split the book into three sections: The Wisdom of Nature; The Noise, the Laughter, the Chaos, the Loved Ones; and Lost in Thought. The author explores nature and how she relates to those quiet times when nature calls her name. The next section deals with the love in her life. The last section deals with the author’s deeper nature as she explores her feelings in greater detail.

I was surprised to see an excellent collection of haiku and other forms of syllabic poetry in the book. It was easy to connect with the variety of poems and themes. I enjoyed all of them!

I had two favorite poems. One was called “The Sign” and the other, “Ever So Gently.” Both poems are contemplative in nature, but filled with hope for the good things in life to enrich our lives.

From Miriam:

Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poems by Lauren Scott is a cozy and delightful read. I love the pastel color scheme of the cover. It conveys a soft feeling like the fluffy feathers caressing my skin. Her son Michael painted the cover on canvas. The title and the cover join in a beautiful harmony.

Even though this was an autumn evening, I snuggled in front of my fireplace, let the flames warm my face, and let Scott’s words warm my heart. By looking at the content, I knew gems were waiting to be found. This collection is divided into three parts. The first part touches on nature, the second part on relationships and loved ones, and the third part on thoughts in life.

Scott painted nature with her soft strokes. “Cottony clouds drift by. We want to move into them, feel their softness enfold us.” “Tiny threads of peace weave into the marrow of our souls mending any fretting that stirred.” “I wonder if pine needles wiggle in delight until they float to the earth…” The vivid imagery invited my presence in her natural world with the hummingbird, the sunflower, the peach rose, the lantana, the rocks, and the shiny shells.

Scott shared her joyous moments of meeting her husband and their newfound love. “Life has blossomed into delight and wonder in every part of its glowing greatness.” She missed her son and daughter, who were grown and gone. She would leave her son’s room messy to remind her of his presence. The days when the children were little were greatly missed. She reminisced about the younger days when her parents moved from place to place and she missed old friends. The old Afghan reminded her of the memory and wisdom of her mom. One Sunday afternoon, she had the last conversation with her dad. “His voice offers no response, silent for eternity, his body, a shell.” Scott’s memorable moments reminded me of my own with my husband, my daughter, and my parents.

The poem “Things I Know, Believe and Imagine” posted a valuable question. “I believe Love should remain the center of all humankind, but since hate continues to linger on the street, here’s a question to ponder… what should we do differently?” A Two-Wheel Getaway told a cheerful story of meeting biking strangers who became instant friends. The star poem Ever So Gently conveyed the message of hope.

“Its [star’s] glow will grow ever so gently
Into a bright beacon of hope
Rising with the golden sun
Bringing clarity to our vision.”

Thank you for visiting today, and I hope these touching reviews entice you into reading my collection.

To purchase your copy, simply click on the image above
or on this link: https://tinyurl.com/3ds4839u

Wishing you a wonderful Wednesday! 💙🩵💚

#Book Reviews: Dreams &Nightmares, Self-Help & Inspiration, Fairies, Myths, & Magic

On July 11, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews, Books123 Comments

Hello Everyone,

Today I’m sharing my 5-star reviews for three wonderful, entertaining books.
Hope you enjoy!

In the Tree’s Shadows by D.L. Finn

In the Tree’s Shadow by D. L. Finn is a captivating collection of short stories in a mix of genres, varying from 99 words to novella length. Finn takes the reader on a thrilling ride of paranormal, horror, sci-fi – even romance and fantasy. And her love of the outdoors is apparent as nature is woven into many tales. The worlds she creates are exceptional, showcasing authentic humans and dialogue. I even found the creatures and aliens to be convincing.

The Wow Factor began from the beginning and continued to the end. Some stories are moving and endearing, a few made me turn on more lights, while others made me stop and think. But they are all entertaining.

The collection begins with “End of the Road,” in which the main character is tired of living, but then the storyline shifts. A powerful introduction to Finn’s storytelling that had me intrigued. I enjoyed “A Reminder” since I’m also a nature enthusiast. “This Journey” speaks of a lost loved one, special memories, and how two people will reunite in another life. All dog lovers will be drawn to “The Bench.”

A few favorites that made me wish for daylight are “When the Lights Go Out,” “In that Moment,” and “The Day the Ground Moved.” “The Playdate” was beyond creepy. “In the Shadows” reminded me never to walk alone in the wilderness because the crackling of leaves could truly mean something sinister.

Whatever genre you’re in the mood for, this collection has a story for you. I don’t usually read horror, paranormal, or sci-fi, but I finished this book in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. You can savor it, though, and take your time, extending the thrilling ride. I’ll add that this is the first book I’ve read by D. L. Finn, and I know it won’t be the last. I truly enjoyed her writing and imagination. Highly recommended for all fiction readers!

Re-Create and Celebrate by Cindy Georgakas

Do you ever carry self-doubt around? Are you a people-pleaser? Are you still trying to figure out your life? If you answer yes to these questions, then Re-Create & Celebrate by Cindy Georgakas is the book for you. I’ve been following Cindy’s blog for a while now, and have grown to admire the caring, vibrant, woman she is. So, I couldn’t wait to read her debut book. I would be hard-pressed to believe that everyone has their life figured out to a tee, no need to ask questions or ponder mysteries. In some ways, I do, but in others, I’m still searching as I bet you are, too.

Georgakas shares her suggestions and knowledge drawn from her experience of being a life coach, and the language she uses is down to earth. She is not shy when it comes to showing her vulnerability. She is simply like you and me, trying to live life to its fullest. The book is organized into 7 Steps To Turn Your Dreams Into Reality, and she ends each chapter with a powerful haiku. Here is a sample…

stay grounded in self
listen with all your senses
open to insight

Georgakas nudges you into delving deep within your soul to discover your true essence, and then to unearth your true purpose. We all know how powerful negative thoughts can be, and how easily they can push us in the wrong direction. As Georgakas says, “…we can’t let the mind take over, since it is designed to overanalyze and judge everything we do.”

As I’m not in my thirties or forties anymore, this quote rang true, “Every age and stage offers new insights and opportunities to adapt and change; we have never been at this place in our lives before, so it’s important to pause and ask, “Who am I now, and what is my purpose?”

Another question to ponder is, “What life is worth living that is not worth questioning?” And this line stood out, “We have a choice to either paint rainbows or black clouds on our blank canvas.” Georgakas sprinkles many nuggets of wisdom from start to finish, so this compilation of encouragement is a great reminder that can be referred to over and over again.

Re-Create & Celebrate is an empowering book to reiterate how crucial self-love is, how to realize our goals and achieve them, and to enhance personal growth. Highly recommended for all who are still seeking those awaited answers!

Fairies, Myths, and Magic by Colleen M. Chesebro

This book is an enchanting collection of engaging prose and poetry about fairies, myths, and magic. Chesebro’s imagination and vivid imagery filled me with wonder as I turned each page. I felt like I had stepped into the scenes to interact with the delightful characters. Chesebro begins with a celebration of the inspiration of summer solstice, and then she introduces fairies with some fascinating facts.

The poems take on many forms, such as free verse and various styles of syllabic poetry. Regardless, Chesebro adds her special magic when she weaves words together. Below is a lovely example:

“Fairy Magic”

When browsing through memories swirling within
your mind,
Most people often find –
Magic is the least understood of the fairytale arts.
Fear not! Look deep into your soul –
To remember a time
When enchantment explained your world,
First seen through the eyes of a child.

I had the pleasure of meeting two adorable pixies and laughing at their shenanigans, but I loved the heartwarming ending. I was introduced to a kind little fairy who yearns for his love to be reciprocated. Chesebro transported me to a shimmering pond for an enlightening experience – “the kind where magic resonates in the shriek of a hawk and in the howling yips from coyote pups that play on the sandy shore under a full moon.” Even the well-known plight of honeybees is woven into her magical stories. And I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Drac, the dragon, who experiences a transformation of heart.

A few favorites are “Just What the Doctor Ordered,” “A Fairy Love Spell,” “The Healer,” and “Halloween Havoc,” which left me with a hilarious, memorable image in my mind.

Throughout the book, I became delightfully swept up in the magic of spells, incantations, and potions. I suggest you carve out some time over a night or two and dive into the magic. You won’t be disappointed. Chesebro’s storytelling and poetic offerings will lift your spirits. Highly recommended!

Thank you for stopping by, and Happy Reading! 🥰

“I felt as if I belonged in the pages…”

On June 24, 2023June 23, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews, Books70 Comments

I was pleasantly surprised to receive another glowing review for More than Coffee. This book was released in fall of 2021, so for these amazing reviews to still be flowing in truly warms my heart. Cheryl Orteglia from Living in the Gap wrote a stunner!

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 admire how Scott and her husband are exploring new activities as their nest empties and their courage soars. I especially related to the long hikes and the magical encounters with the wilderness, waterfalls, and a canopy of stars.

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. Don’t miss this opportunity to sit down with a cup of coffee, an old friend and explore the deeper meaning of this one precious life.

I highly recommend More Than Coffee with a five-star review for those of you who love memoirs, mystique, and family love.

Thank you SO much, Cheryl! I’m over the moon again by your most beautiful review, and I’m so grateful you felt as if you belonged in the pages. This line just gets to me in a warm way. ❤️

For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Cheryl, please pay her a visit. She writes engaging posts about real-life stuff! And her sense of humor will have you doubled over! When you read her stories, you’ll find yourself nodding because her tales are so relatable!

If you wrote a review for my book, Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! And if you read it and loved it, I hope you’ll consider writing one. I’ve heard through sources here in the land of blogging that reviews are like hugs to Indie authors. Fyi, I love hugs! 🙂

Thanks so much for dropping in, and I wish you an amazing weekend!

~Lauren ❤️

“The majestic trees and vast sky invite you to keep looking up.”

Book Reviews: #social media & #life on a farm

On June 7, 2023June 8, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews105 Comments

Dear Family and Friends,

I hope you’re doing well! I am nearing the finish line with my new poetry collection, Ever So Gently, to be released at the end of the month. But along with fine-tuning, I carve out quiet time to read. So, without further ado, I introduce two wonderful books by talented authors, Alex Craigie and Darlene Foster:

The Bubble Reputation by Alex Craigie – A social media eye-opener!

Connecting with friends and family, and posting about hobbies and travels is the allure of social media, right? While reading The Bubble Reputation by Alex Craigie I was reminded of the disturbing side. Social media is the ideal platform for mean-spirited people who intend to destroy others.

Emmie Hobson enjoys the exciting ride as a popular children’s book author and TV personality. She has a fabulous partner in life, Luke, who will support her to the end of time. Her relationship with her sister may be rocky, but she loves her parents dearly. What could go wrong? Her life seems picture-perfect. But Craigie introduces Ursula, a ruthless editor, who is searching for a juicy scoop. She zeroes in on Emmie to publicly mortify. The higher reader ratings are well worth the underhanded behavior. Emmie’s world is shaken, stirred, and turned upside down. The readers choose what they want to believe, whether the words speak the truth or whether they imply false information. And then social media is the ideal mode to spew the vitriol that spreads like wildfire.

I sympathized with Emmie and Luke, but Emmie’s relationship with her parents was heartwarming. Feeling a strong dislike for Ursula who caused Emmie’s life to crumble was effortless. I wished this story was pure fiction, but we all know these horrific situations headline the news, and some stories conclude with tragic outcomes. I was thoroughly engaged in Emmie’s dilemma, where I couldn’t put the book down. I had to find out how she would survive and come up for air.

The story is compelling from start to finish and enlightens the reader about the misuse of social media. You’ll have to read the book to find out if Emmie comes up for air! Highly recommended!

You Can Take The Girl From The Prairie by Darlene Foster – Touching stories about family and farm living.

Foster compiles a lovely collection of short stories inspired by her memories of growing up on a prairie farm in Canada. Family is the touchstone in each heartfelt story, and Foster’s writing flows so genuinely as if she’s narrating her memories to a group of friends relaxing around a crackling campfire. She admits in the introduction that she didn’t appreciate her life on the prairie as a young girl. “But over time, I realized that what I had as a child was special – the freedom, safety, fresh air, home-grown food, friendly neighbors…”

You Can Take the Girl from the Prairie reveals how hindsight is twenty-twenty.

I’ve always lived in the city, but as I’ve grown older, the solitude offered in a country setting is appealing. So, I looked forward to reading about Foster’s life on the farm. She pays high regard to her parents and grandparents and everyone she has met on her path. There is no doubt she possesses a grateful heart.

I enjoyed this entire collection, but a few heartwarming favorites spoke about Foster’s baby brother entering her world as though out of a fairytale. The love in her heart for her cowboy, heroic dad shines, and when she writes about a special teacher, I thought of a teacher from my high school years who instilled the same positive effect. Foster infuses humor in “Good Hands,” which made me laugh when I read about her dad chasing a cow that jumped off the back of a truck on the way to the vet. But one story that made me teary-eyed and tugged at my heart is “Losing Tim,” which gave me a personal glimpse into the author’s life.

Each memory pulled me in deeper, so I read this book in one sitting. Each story draws out various emotions known to the human heart. I highly recommend this beautiful collection to anyone interested in life on a farm, but who also enjoys touching family stories.

Thanks for stopping by, and Happy reading!

~ Lauren ❤️

“Books are a uniquely portable magic.” – Stephen King

Three Book Reviews: All unique and exquisite, featuring a marmalade cat, slow-motion moments, and dancing!

On February 9, 2023February 12, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Promotions, Book Reviews93 Comments

Variety is the Spice of Life by Sally Cronin is a poignant collection of poetry and short stories. Reading Sally’s entrancing writing is as calming and illuminating as sitting on a slab of granite in the wilderness, witnessing the sun slowly rise to begin another glorious day. The clever cover alone caught my eye – perfect for this blend of poems and prose. Then I turned the pages, and Sally had me at “Key words” which is a short piece packed with power of how words can make our hearts sing or how they can cause our hearts to shatter. Sally writes about life and all it embodies: nature, loss, relationships, and our furry animal friends. The scenes portrayed through her beautiful writing had me drying a tear, reminiscing, and smiling.

A few favorite poems that come to mind are “Expeditions” which inspires us to step out of our comfort zones. “Above the World” speaks of memories from Sally’s youth but evokes wonderful recollections for me of recent backpacking trips with my husband. “Face in the mirror” is accompanied by a lovely, delicate picture of Sally and her mother, which brought forth priceless memories of my mom who passed away over a decade ago. “Seasons” is thought-provoking and speaks not only of nature’s changing seasons, but how life transforms over the years – how hope can be discouraged by “chill winds, the evil that is done by humans.” “Drought” undeniably hit home but ends on a much-needed high note.

Sally’s stories with their realistic and charming characters are beyond engaging as well. I love them all, but the stories that shine are “The Neighborhood Watch,” highlighting the marmalade cat with an impressive left hook. “Miss Lloyd’s Robin” is about a delightful robin, the benefits of forgiveness, and newfound friendship. “The Home Help” touches on loss of hope, unexpected surprises, learning to trust, and renewed excitement for what lies on the horizon.

Variety is the Spice of Life prompts a precious memory or chuckle or a nugget of understanding, whether it’s a poem or story that resonates, brings enjoyment, or simply touches the heart. I love Sally’s writing and highly recommend this collection for lovers of engaging stories and sentimental verse.

Reading Jeff Flesch’s poems in Nature Speaks of Love and Sorrow is like strolling along a beach, allowing the waves’ lullaby to soothe your mind from any burdens. He weaves human experiences with the wonder of nature – how we are all connected. The love and sorrow he conveys through his beautiful poetic verses are almost tangible. Jeff’s use of poetic language touches on a myriad of emotions, affecting all senses. And even in sorrow, I recognized that he views life through smiling eyes.

In “Oak Trees” Jeff shares a memory from his youth, “that their branches resemble the veins of my heart or lines of the part you played.” “Slow-Motion Moments” reminds me of my many walks through a forest and how the trees, the birds, and the flowers allow time to think “like an avalanche of thoughts pervade me.” When I am among nature, I revel in the solitude that allows me to breathe in the silence of that moment with deep appreciation. “Cosmic Arts” will take you on a magical ride to contemplate love, surrounding beauty, and the mystery of Heaven “as the sun comes up inside your heart.” “Needle and Thread” tells of a love so deep and relatable; I felt myself tumbling into the beauty of Jeff’s lines. “Did you know it was you lost in my prose? Alas, as the moments tick by, it is you I look for in the wind.”

And then, “Moments Grasped” is sadly the last poem to read, but the lines are enticing, “wafting in the breeze/it’s all I can do to breathe/into this moment and the next/realizing it’s all been/and will be for the best.” Nature Speaks is exactly what the title expresses and is easily enjoyed nestled into your favorite chair, sipping a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of wine. Jeff’s writing is sublime, so when you reach the last page, you’ll feel a sense of melancholy. I highly recommend this lovely book for anyone who loves poetry that calms both the mind and soul.

Asunder, Baby by Steven Baird is a profound collection of prose and poetry. In his introduction, Baird conveys that short stories have never been easy for him to write. Yet, his words flow seamlessly, creating such vivid settings that I can’t fathom him having any difficulty at all. His stories and poems reveal loss, beauty, love, and despair with an intensity that digs deeply into the hearts of his readers. Baird’s originality and authenticity in portraying his characters and backdrops are the brilliance of this intellectual compilation.

I found myself dog-earing page after page. Many of the stories and poems turned into favorites, but a few I’d like to highlight are “Where we go dancing,” “Your father’s Delta 88,” “Cinnamon Suites,” “The last angel of the Lord,” and “Rhapsody.”

An example from “Where we go dancing”

“…I can dance the ears off a row of corn when I have a mind to. Why, that corn becomes ashamed of itself and wishes it could be half as worthy as old dry cabbage or a leaf of backfield tobacco then have to endure another minute of the spectaculation of my feet.”

And from “Your father’s Delta 88”

“…and watch the eddies pull quilt-shaped flowers along their creases, folding them, unfolding them, pressing their petals into wine.”

Asunder, Baby is the first book I’ve read from this author, but I look forward to reading more of his incredible storytelling and poetic verse. Highly recommended for those who love prose and poetry that have you pondering and deeply feeling at the same time.

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you were enticed enough to click on the links for your copies of these three wonderful books! ❤️

Other Worlds

On January 9, 2023 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry, Writing51 Comments

Wealth comes in many
fabulous shapes…

Hardbacks, paperbacks,
they sit on the shelves,
waiting patiently
for their pages to be turned,
the simple, blissful touch,
but some rest with elation
knowing their stories
and poetic thoughts
have been liberated,
pages dog-eared for
another reading,
the words having
touched a chord.
Seams of the bookcase
stretch like stitches
in too-tight jeans.
The bookcase itself
bulges like a belly satisfied
from a hearty meal.
I feel excitement of a child
wandering through a toy store
when I peruse new
for the shelves…
Is it fair to own so many
captivating adventures
and poetic musings?
Quiet moments await
for me to immerse
into those other worlds…

Kindness Repeated

On December 6, 2022 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews, Writing56 Comments

Sometimes wonderful surprises occur when we least expect them, and that’s what happened to me yesterday morning. It was Monday, the start of my work week and not my favorite day, but one I’m thankful for just the same because even Monday’s are a gift. Besides waking up and enjoying that first sip of coffee, I woke my laptop and Marie’s comment greeted me like the brightest and most welcoming smile. She wrote a touching and beautiful review for More than Coffee that I can’t let slip by without sharing. What’s even more surprising is that my book has been out for a little over a year now, but these wonderful reviews are still coming in. My heart is filled with gratitude. And here is Marie’s review:

“I am not that good at saying why I love books. That’s why I rarely share about my favorite reads!

But today I’ll make an exception.

Cause the one I just finished was just a gem that I wanted to share about it. In my own way!

I met Lauren when wandering from blog to blog and from the day I started reading her, I can say I fell in love with her writing.

She is a poet and you can feel her spirit blooming in every word she is sharing with us.

More than coffee is really more than coffee. I don’t drink coffee, I just love the smell of it, so I sat down with Lauren and a warm tea. It felt like being with a friend and chatting about life, its ups and downs and how to keep the bright side and sight alive.

I only know Lauren online and just for a couple of months but her kindness and generosity are real, you can feel it in her lines and stories.

I really enjoyed the way she took me by the hand right into her world, with vivid descriptions of the place she lives in, the sites she visited, her relationships, the loss, the grief and what we make of it.

What we decided to make of it.

I ended the book knowing I would scroll through it again, for wisdom or just a gentle reminder of life’s blessings.

I want to thank Lauren for giving me the chance to read her and to get to know her better, while reflecting about some of my life outstanding questions and overwhelming feelings!

You can read Lauren on her blog here: https://baydreamerwrites.com“

To purchase a copy

I know Marie spoke about my kindness and generosity, but I can say the same about her. Her touching words are nothing less than kind and generous. I hope you’ll visit her site where she shares her deepest feelings beautifully in poetic form and stories. She writes from the heart, thoughts that are genuine and raw, and the emotions she wants to stir flow freely after reading her thought-provoking posts.

So, another Big Thank You to Marie, and I apologize for repeating, but thank you to all who have read More than Coffee and who have written reviews. And I am beyond grateful for this fabulous blogging community!

~ Lauren ❤️

Identity and Loss, Hope, and Feathered Friends…

On December 1, 2022December 2, 2022 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews54 Comments

It’s been a while since I’ve posted book reviews, so I thought it was about time to share three wonderful books I have recently enjoyed…

Distant Flickers: Stories of Identity & Loss is an excellent anthology of engaging short stories from eight accomplished authors that I finished in one evening. The stories are inspired from a personal event and touch on identity and loss in their own unique way and setting, and all are well written with characters who seem as real as you and me. It is easy to get lost in their struggles, ascertaining how they will cope and heal. Each character is found at a crossroads where a life-changing decision is vital. Following each piece is a biography of the author which provides a little insight into the inspiration for writing the story. I found this to be very interesting.

This entire collection is five-star worthy, but a few stories that stand out are “Where Secrets Go to Hide” by Keith Madsen. The style in which Keith writes about a young boy who begins to collect secrets just like his sister collects baseball cards is filled with clever nuances of humor and suspense. Collecting secrets, doesn’t that grab you already? “Two Boys” by Carol LaHines tells of a mother’s loss, an emotional and moving tale, and an incomprehensible event that made my heart ache, being a mother myself. “Diary Omissions: The House on Edgewood Road” by Elizabeth Gauffreau is tenderly written about a mother who is unhappy in her role in life, and how her behavior affects her husband and two children.

I recommend this anthology to anyone who enjoys a little drama, loves short stories that are character-driven and based on real-life events.

Hues of Hope by Balroop Singh is a beautiful collection of selected poetry and the perfect medicine for keeping hope in the forefront of our minds. Divided into sections spanning from love to life’s challenges, this compilation stirs up emotions in each poignant line. This book will be one for the reader to rely on if life’s struggles become too much to bear, if a ray of light is needed to brighten the outlook.

Every poem had an impact in some way, but a few that stand out are the soothing emotions of “The Call of Calmness” – the first verse alone drew me in:

Gentle breeze breathes a quiet message/I am here to bless you/To softly swing/Sway with your dreams.

Since I am a tree lover, particularly of Redwoods, Balroop’s poem entitled “Redwoods” resonated with me, evoking images of incredible majestic redwoods I have had the pleasure of visiting. I especially love this verse:

Mother Nature smiles sweetly/As I stand, intimidated and/Intoxicated by the fragrance of flora/
Flourishing amid ironic beauty/Of fire-damaged trunks/Standing tall to tell their seminal story.

Reading “Do You Remember?” made me feel nostalgic, flipping through the reels of memories, joyful and challenging, and then viewing the future with “colors of love.”

I highly recommend this poetry collection to all poetry lovers, but most importantly, to everyone who needs a lovely dose of hope now and then.

Avian Friends: Encouraging Poems Inspired by Backyard Birds by Yvette Prior was inspired by the author’s family planting several trees in their backyard for the purpose of creating shade and privacy. What they didn’t expect was the arrival of a whole host of feathered friends that would entertain. Yvette began observing the birds, their behavior, sounds, and daily activities, jotting down her thoughts along the way.

This collection is divided into five sections, and following each poem, the author includes her inspiration behind her poetic words…delivering personal reflections of relating her aviary findings to the lives of human emotions and well-being. Yvette inserts tidbits of wisdom for living a balanced life. These snippets into Yvette’s mind are as entertaining and evocative as her poetry.

Some of my favorite poems are “What Matters” which speaks about materialism and how some people use possessions as their barometer for success. “Summer Sun” is a cute poem that tells us it is quite okay to simply be. In these times of living busy lives, carving out some quiet time for relaxation is a healthy choice for finding that balance. “Fall Crunch” paints a beautiful image of a new autumnal season, as well as showing the simple beauty of a cardinal. I recommend this lovely book to not only bird lovers, but to those who would enjoy grasping the deeper meaning behind Yvette’s poems.

Thank you for stopping by, and Happy Reading! ❤️