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I discovered author, Tess Thompson, in August, 2021, and after reading the first few chapters of "The School Mistress of Emerson Pass," I added her to my personal list of favorite authors. I recall I stumbled upon this book by chance, suggested by a fellow Goodreads reviewer on my "friends" list. I purchased this book for my Kindle reader on a gut feeling and reading another reviewer's opinion and I am glad I did. The book cover is absolutely lovely. Although the lady on the cover is facing away, her stance and the stunning blue dress is breathtakingly beautiful. Not being able to see her face ignites the reader's own imagination. I immediately gravitated to the book and stopped to read the review. One can never doubt the power of an enticing book cover to draw the reader in.  Set in Colorado, 1920, "The School Mistress of Emerson Pass" is a historical, sweet romance that exudes a coziness that had me tucking fluffy blankets around me in bed as I read it late at night. It really set the mood and the reading mood is such an important part of me when I read. I adore cozy, sweet romances with slow burning attraction between the main characters and this delivered. Female, main character, Quinn Cooper, is instantly loveable, exuding a nurturing personality that connects with the reader. She takes on employment as a teacher in a frontier town away from her hometown of Boston in order to provide for her mother and younger sister. Needless to say, they are all struggling financially. Her journey as a lone woman was not an easy one and I won't give away some things that happened along the way that basically placed in her in the male, main character's arms once she arrived in town. Lord Alexander Barnes is the father of 5 children whom he adores. He is widowed (once again, I will not reveal particulars so as not to spoil the story). Alexander is a powerful man who is appreciated by his children and his household staff. He is a self-made man, having built the school in which Quinn teaches at and in fact, helped build this town with his finances and fortitude. He takes a protective stance towards Quinn and cannot help but fall for her caring nature and is keenly aware of her budding relationships with himself, his children and his household staff. The main characters develop a blossoming attraction for one another that builds throughout the storyline. The pace is relaxed and although it is deemed a sweet romance, there are some significant issues enveloped within the story such as difficult tensions with an inter-racial relationship, a murder, the fact that (during that time period) a woman must not deign to venture out on her own without male protection... the author weaves these perfectly into the storyline. There are prefect moments, then there are tense scenes like these that bring a realism to her story as we see much of this reflect in real life: the highs and the lows that balance our own lives. Yin and yang. Give and take. Nothing and no one is perfect but we find a way to carve our happiness and brightness against whatever obstacle is thrown our way. We keep marching forward, pulling out those weeds and life lives on. I got a wonderful sense of family in this book and its importance. To stand united against any negative threats. To nurture and protect one another. To fill a home with positivity and support. It is something we all strive for and so we can connect with what the author is so astutely delivering. I enjoyed reading this book very much. It is wholesome... like cookies and milk. Highly recommended. Special Notes:You can connect with Tess and learn more about her by visiting her website at tesswrites.com. I was not requested to do this review. I did it of my own volition, volunteering my views in an effort to bring the author and potential readers together. If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing. It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book. Writers are super appreciative of this kind act. Book Reviewed: "The School Mistress of Emerson Pass;" Author: Tess Thompson; Publisher: 4kids5cats Editions; (April 1, 2020). Book Blog Copyright (C) 2021 Mary-Lisa Russo AuthorYou have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate having majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups. She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors. Archives November 2021 Categories
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This is probably one of the most difficult reviews I have ever written. My tears revealed themselves more and more as each page was read. I literally stopped breathing at some points and I felt my heart crack and then shatter into multiple pieces and as I kept moving forward, reading to the end of the book, I felt as though all those shattered pieces of my heart were being gingerly sewn back together with a needle and thread and shaking hand. The knowledge that this book is a factual rendition, made it so much more poignant for me. I cried and had to stop reading it a few times.  The book is meticulously written. It revolves around the true story of the author’s husband, Mike’s, heart wrenching experience with pancreatic cancer. Holly Rose Holland compartmentalizes her husband’s cancer journey from his pre-diagnosis, his cancer treatment, his death and the grieving family’s attempt to cope and move forward, bereft of a central figure in their family. As a reader, you witnessed this journey in full circle, keenly aware of the seriousness of receiving a high stage cancer diagnosis and the stressful, devastating, rippling effect it has on the cancer patient as well as caregivers, family and friends. At the end of the book, the author also added some helpful charts for the reader to fill out when the time comes. It shows her giving nature in wanting to provide help to others who may feel lost in their own traumatic journey. The book does break your heart. And yet, the author does her best to empower the reader, to give hope, to encourage the griever to embrace that to keep “moving forward” in your own life journey is not only permitted, but naturally essential to do so. I think that is something we all struggle with…how to move forward when your world is shattered, be it because of a death, a job loss, lifestyle change, chronic illness diagnosis or anything else that may devastate and disrupt your world. This is an excellent book to give anyone hope and strength to weather any of life’s perfect storms. I recommend this soul-searching book. It is triggering and empowering at the same time. If you are personally experiencing your own trauma, I hope you are blessed with hope and the will to “keep moving” forward. Every moment is precious and counts. Thank you, Holly Rose Holland, for this poignant book that it is clear to see, came straight from your heart. Special Notes:You can connect with Holly and learn more about her by visiting her website at: hollyroseholland.com. I was not requested to do this review. I did it of my own volition, volunteering my views in an effort to bring the author and potential readers together. If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing. It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book. Writers are super appreciative of this kind act. Book Reviewed: "Keep Moving: Creating A Life Afer Loss;" Author: Holly Rose Holland; Publisher: Sapphire Seashore Press; 2021 Book Blog Copyright (C) 2021 Mary-Lisa Russo AuthorYou have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate having majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups. She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors. Archives September 2021 CategoriesI purchased this short story compilation in early August and completed reading it on September 3, 2021. I read it in small spurts as it’s been a busy month. (Note: It would have been a much quicker read if time permitted it.) I am in love with the book cover! It completely drew me in and prepared me for the fantastical stories that transpired within the book. It made me feel like something chilling and suspenseful is about to transpire. Great cover choice!  I am happy to report that I found this book to be an enjoyable read. The stories are fantasy driven, brimming with suspense. This is perfect for summer time reading. It’s a great compilation wherein three authors come together to create an entertaining book. I appreciate each of their efforts. All three authors exhibited strong writing although R.M. Carpus’s work has a certain pull to it as even though it’s fictional fantasy, there is a sense of realism to her writing that draws the reader into the worlds she created. Rosemary Lane really stood out for me. Her other writings in the book are compelling, too. I did not take the contents within the book seriously so I guess that is why I enjoyed it. I let my imagination take flight which engrossed me in the book. I believe this is what the authors intended. I read the book outdoors in the evenings so it added to the suspenseful tone of the stories. They are short stories so if you have little reading time to spare, you are able to take in a story or two from beginning to end. I recommend this book for your reading pleasure. Special Notes:
If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing. It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book. Writers are super appreciative of this kind act. Book Reviewed: Through The Woods: (Short Story Collection, Volume One): Whimsical Worlds Chilling Thrills and Magical Tales; Kindle Edition; Authors: D.M. Million, R.M. Carpus & C.C. Givans Book Blog Copyright (C) 2021 Mary-Lisa Russo AuthorYou have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate having majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups. She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors. Archives August 2021 CategoriesLegendary. Opulent. Majestic. Luxurious... These are only mere words that came to my mind when reading about the Waldorf Astoria. Everything connected to that name is larger than life: the Astor family feud, hotel size, artwork, ornate architecture and lavish décor within its walls, flamboyant social affairs and soirees and much, much more. I acquired this book via Kindle Unlimited on August 24, 2021 and it was such an interesting read, I read it whenever I had spare time on my hands, deeply enthralled with the contents.  The author was very thorough in his rendition of the legendary hotel, commencing from it's birth to present day. His descriptions were very detailed and I felt like I was right there- in the Gilded Age in New York, viewing the surroundings with my own eyes. I was transported back in time and journeyed forward to the present in graphic detail, all the while taking in the ups and downs of this legendary infrastructure that was born, died and re-born again. It was first located on Fifth and 33rd Street then it found a home on Park Avenue where it continues to stand in all its majestic glory. The detailed writing accompanied by the detailed photos combined to convey a thorough enactment of the hotel's riveting history. I perused the photos with great interest and it clarified the writing even more. It was such a pleasure to especially see the older photos. I felt as though I had stepped into a different time and I lost myself with each turn of the page. I can best describe the book as a sweeping, factual saga. It is fascinating to read about such a legendary hotel and the important figures that were connected to it, knowing that everything reported in the book is true. It mesmerized me. I learned so much about the Waldorf Astoria I walked away very satisfied having read the book. It is a very thorough account with no stone left unturned. If you interested in reading about the Waldorf Astoria, I highly recommend this book. I have nothing but praise for the author. (I know, I am gushing at this point). I tried not to give too much away in my review as each tidbit of information I learned added to my reading excitement. Special Notes:
If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing. It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book. Writers are super appreciative of this kind act. Book Review: "Waldorf Astoria (Images of America)" written by William Alan Morrison. Book Blog Copyright (C) 2021 Mary-Lisa Russo AuthorYou have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate having majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups. She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors. Archives August 2021 CategoriesBook Review: "Love Her Wild- Poems"; written by Atticus; published by Atria Books, July 11, 20178/28/2021 Every soul needs poetry. At times, we forget that it subtly vibrates within us, giving life and song to the rhythm of our thoughts and expressions. Colors and shapes are much more vibrant when we allow poetry to share space with our mind, allowing creativity to flow and thoughts to wander beyond the mundane and the expected, into a realm where hopes and dreams and inner expressions take center stage.  "Love Her Wild- Poetry" by Atticus I acquired Atticus' "Love Her Wild" via my Kindle Unlimited Membership in mid August, 2021. I finished reading the book on August 27, 2021. It was a quick read as the majority of the poems are very short. Atticus is considered an "Instagram Sensation," writing poetry and quotes that capture flashes of moments and feelings with a few words. I would like to call the work within this book "musings" for that is the first thought that entered my mind after reading a few pages. Some of the poems were very witty and captured by imagination and a few did not live up to the intended hype although I truly appreciate the writer's thoughts and efforts in stylizing the book, equipping it with various black and white photos that tell a story and different font styles and sizes which attest to the writer's efforts and creativity in attempting to visually stimulate the reader. This effort on the writer's part cannot be taken lightly. It is something I quickly noted and appreciated. The poems that I thought were strong carried the book well. They were original and thought provoking. I think I am personally more privy to reading Shakespeare's Sonnets and Byron and Keats but I believe it is important to keep an open mind and venture forth in new territory and I was not disappointed in this creative work. This is Atticus' first book and I am looking forward to reading his other work with an open mind and heart. I do recommend this book. Special Notes:
If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing. It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book. Writers are super appreciative of this kind act. Book Review: "Love Her Wild- Poems" written by Atticus. Book Blog Copyright (C) 2021 Mary-Lisa Russo AuthorYou have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate having majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups. She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors. Archives August 2021 CategoriesI purchased "Ava's Longing: A Marriage of Convenience Short Story Historical Romance" in Kindle format in early August, 2021. This is book 2 in the Agate Bay, Minnesota series. Amid the meatier books I read, there are times I desire to read a short story like this book within a few hours to get my reading fix. "Ava's Longing" is endowed with a lovely cover that truly pays homage to the longing conveyed throughout the book as portrayed by Ava. It is a tangible thing. Very pronounced. Just that pose alone on the cover conveys expectation... as if waiting for something to happen. She wants to find love with someone who cares for her and loves her in return. Time is passing and being matchless in the romantic sense weighs on Ava and is very much noted by her family. Ava is a lovely woman displaying many talents such as cooking, baking, housekeeping, accounting skills, etc. and lists them off at one point as if she was trying to prove her worth and that made me very sad reading that scene. "She wanted to prove to the men and women in town that she was desirable for marriage." That line got me. My heart hurt for her. She doesn't have to prove to anyone that she is "marriageable" or a good prospect. It is painful to feel that way, as if you have shortcomings and need to boast your perceived attributes for recognition. This made Ava a very vulnerable female main character and very much easy to connect with the reader on a raw, personal level. She is very human with her uncertainty and her hopes and dreams. There was such a realism about her in the book, it overrode the rest of the elements in the book for me...in a good way.  I did find the beginning half of the book a little slow paced but it was still a good read. The romance between Ava and Matthew is a simmering, sweet romance and relies on their longing and physical attraction to bring their love to fruition. There is also a mystery mixed into the storyline which adds another element to it. In conclusion, I would recommend this short story. It is a wholesome story that touches your heart strings. Special Notes:
If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing. It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book. Writers are super appreciative of this kind act. Book Review: "Ava's Longing: A Marriage of Convenience Short Story Historical Romance" (Agate Bay, Minnesota Book 2) written by Christine Sterling. Book Blog Copyright (C) 2021 Mary-Lisa Russo AuthorYou have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate having majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups. She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors. Archives August 2021 CategoriesLife is a moving story, and we move forward in life and every breath, every step we take, culminates in a new experience we add to our story over time. And that is certainly what our lives amount to: a cumulated tapestry of our journey, an ongoing poem that is deep and meaningful and rich, uniquely ours to shape and pave as we see fit within the complexity of our experiences. I purchased a paperback copy of New York Times Bestseller, She Walks In Beauty- A Woman's Journey Through Poems, back in January, 2021 and read it over time, at my leisure. When I came across it, something told me to purchase a physical copy. I am happy to report I am glad I did so. This book is a treasure, endowed with an arsenal of poems spanning a woman's life journey depicting different facets of her existence and her place within her evolving story. The book is beautifully laid out in categories introduced by Caroline Kennedy and a number of pages are illustrated with black and white peonies, adding to the overall feminine tone of the book. It clocks in at 332 pages yet it feels lightweight and did not place any hand holding fatigue on me while reading. I find Caroline Kennedy's detailed introduction to each section a personal touch which connects with the reader.  As an avid, poetry reader and writer, I can appreciate the mosaic of thoughts and feelings conveyed in the poems depicted in this book as they unfold throughout a woman's life journey from childhood through to old age. These are not poems just stuck together. They are carefully chosen to reflect an expanding timeline. I can also appreciate the unique styles from various poets that come together to create a deeply meaningful anthology that speaks to the reader. I enjoyed reading work from well known and lesser known poets. Discovering new writing talent is always a bonus for an avid reader. As we age and time marches on, I believe our sensitive side is triggered by our experiences and the world around us and everything and everyone within it becomes more and more meaningful to us. You do not have to be a writer yourself to appreciate these poems. Anyone can enjoy this book which makes it a keeper. I thought of a diamond after I finished reading it. It has many facets to it and so does a woman's journey for the struggles, the triumphs, the gains, the losses and the joys are all laid out in this book. It reminded me that with each step we take, we do "walk in beauty." Definitely a keeper. Special Notes
I was not requested to do this review. I did it of my own volition, volunteering my views in an effort to bring the author and potential readers together. If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing. It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book. Writers are super appreciative of this kind act. Book Review: She Walks In Beauty- A Woman's Journey Through Poems by Caroline Kennedy. Book Blog Copyright (C) 2021 Mary-Lisa Russo AuthorYou have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate having majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups. She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors. Archives November 2021 CategoriesHonestly...I wasn't looking for anything thought provoking when I purchased this book. I wanted a book I could read in one entire evening that would be sweet and easy going and make me laugh...and I got it with "Ezra's Forgetful Bride: Matchmaker's Mix Up Book 7." It delivered!  I purchased this book back in early June, 2021 having fallen head over heels over the whimsical cover and especially the far away, musing expression on main character, Kathleen's, sweet face. The delightful cover drew me in. I just love that red dress! It's summer. So, yes, I am looking for fun, romantic fluff to read during this relaxing season. This was a super quick read for me. This book took me away from the daily grind. I thoroughly enjoyed the budding romance between the main characters. Though Ezra was especially resistant, he eventually could not help but fall for Kathleen's natural charms. I enjoyed the light hearted comedy that ensued in various parts of the book. Though tragedy befell Kathleen at the beginning of the book, she got a well-deserved, happy ending. Sometimes a reader just wants to pick up a book and walk away from it feeling like they experienced something pleasant. I felt that with this book. I will be purchasing other books written by Christine. She has a plethora of wholesome, sweet romances an avid reader can dive into with unabashed glee. A reader's jackpot, indeed! After reading this book, there is one thing I am certain... opposites DO attract! You will have to acquire a copy to find out more... Now that I have discovered author Christine Sterling, she is staying on my reading radar. Special Notes:
If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing. It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book. Writers are super appreciative of this kind act. Book Review: Ezra's Forgetful Bride: Matchmaker's Mix Up Book 7 written by Christine Sterling. Book Blog Copyright (C) 2021 Mary-Lisa Russo AuthorYou have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate having majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups. She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors. ArchivesCategoriesSo... what we have here is a wonderfully written follow-up to Mr. Giampaolo's first book in the Hampshire Stories Series: Hampshire Stories: A Collection Of Tales Set In 19th Century England, independently published on August 7, 2020, currently sporting 4.6 out of 5 in global ratings on Amazon. This is a wonderful achievement for a first book in a series, a reader incentive to purchase a well-written book.  Hampshire Stories: A Collection Of Tales Set In 19th Century England written by Joe Giampaolo Mr. Giampaolo is still enjoying great success with his first book in the series and I am pleased to report that he continues to have success with his follow-up book, The Farmer's Daughter, A Regency Romance. I purchased this book via Amazon on pre-order in April of 2021. Like the first book in the series, this second book boasts an exquisite cover rich in vivid color and imagery. It is a lovely cover, delicate in its illustration and does not stray from the first book in conveying a certain elegance that matches the contents written within the book. The lady pictured in historical garb is on point, setting the tone and drawing the reader into the 19th century even before delving into the first chapter.  The Farmer's Daughter, A Regency Romance written by Joe Giampaolo Writing StyleMr. Giampaolo's writing style flows with an elegance that keeps the reader hooked. His use of vivid imagery is prevalent throughout the book. Mr. Giampaolo has a clear grasp of painting a story within your mind with his carefully curated words as illustrated in such lines as: "On the ground, the familiar carpet of tawny and vermillion leaves softened the ground; up in the sky, the indigo clouds were adorned with painted strokes of orange and silver." "They saw jolly little lads, dressed in tiny frocks and corduroy trousers, and little girls, in their pristine white caps and pinafores and grey frocks; their noses were pressed against the front window of Mr. Green’s toy shop, gazing in delight at the dolls, spin tops, and figurines of farm animals." Mr. Giampaolo's skillful use of imagery draws the reader into the story, solidifying an intimate connection. It is evident that he has conducted a thorough investigation regarding historical content and implemented his acquired knowledge in stunning, authentic detail. His writing conveys an old world charm... an uncontrived elegance wherein he is very much in control of the tone and style of his writing. Plot And Character DevelopmentMr. Giampaolo's main characters in this book are fleshed out in that he breathes life into them so much so, you find yourself avidly rooting for their happy ending. In fact, all his characters are vividly described in detail, from their facial expressions, inner thoughts, outer appearance and interactions. He deftly humanizes them. As you read the book, you realize it is no longer just a story... it is life emanating from the pages. Mr. Giampaolo skillfully paces the plot with timely character development. Chapter by chapter unravels like an orange being peeled. There is no rushing. No forced scenes. Every development within the story meticulously blends with one another in a seamless fashion. In ConclusionI fell in love with the book cover. I fell in love with the characters. I fell in love with the writing style. Quite simply... I fell in love with the entire sum of this book. The story transported to another era and I felt like I was there, walking those same streets and interacting with those same people. Overall, this regency romance novel is elegant, meticulously crafted and and an absolute joy to read. I consider it a rare jewel in its genre. Bravo, Mr. Giampaolo! Special Notes
I was not requested to do this review. I did it of my own volition, volunteering my views in an effort to bring the author and potential reader together. If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing. It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book. Writers are super appreciative of this kind act. Book Review: The Farmer's Daughter: A Regency Romance (The Hampshire Series) written by Joe Giampaolo Book Blog Copyright (C) 2021 Mary-Lisa Russo AuthorYou have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate having majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups. She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors. CategoriesLet's take a few moments to dive into the newly published poetry book, ESCAPING THE DARKNESS: RUNNING FROM MY DREAMS written by poet, Christopher Bice. I purchased the Kindle eBook version of this book in June of 2021. A book cover is your prelude, a strong hint, as to the subject that will be played out within the interior of your book. This particular book cover conveys a desperate urgency as indicated by the title and the image of a male figure running away, towards the light filtering through the open doorway. This urgency sets the tones for the poems found within this book. When we see an image like this in runaway mode, "escaping the darkness," we tend to think it is because something unpleasant is occurring, feelings of turmoil are ensuing and we are searching for safer ground.  "Escaping The Darkness: Running From My Dreams" by Christopher Bice Mr. Bice's poetry book is drenched in a plethora of emotions from beginning to end. The tone throughout the book is heavy, saturated in rich imagery that builds throughout each poem. Joy and pain seem to intermingle and figure prominently in his writing. The emotions conveyed in his work are raw and real. Internal anguish is prominent in his piece, GOODBYE TO LOVE: "Why did I stay with a broken heart To you love was always À la cart You took the good but not the bad You drained me of everything I had." Tortured emotions are conveyed in the above-noted quote and resonate throughout the book. Mr. Bice is not afraid to speak of love and give you a bittersweet ending as found in his poem, IN MY THOUGHTS: "I’ll pray for you You pray for me I’ll forever live in my misery While you sleep for eternity." Mr. Bice's writing is not traditional. He writes outside of the box, and does not cater to perceived expectations. His writing is unapologetically teeming with unexpected twists and turns i.e., true love in all it's riveting glory, ending in either loss and/or death and/or longing. This is bold. There is a haunting element to his writing that touches the reader's core. These are deeply raw, sentimental moments the reader stumbles upon. I walked away from the last page feeling thoughtful and brimming with the realization that we are all fragile and therefore must make a point of cherishing every moment that unfolds in our lives. This poetry book is definitely worth purchasing and adding it to your reading arsenal. SPECIAL NOTES:
I was not requested to do this review. I did it of my own volition, volunteering my views in an effort to bring the author and potential reader together. If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing. It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book. Writers are super appreciative of this kind act. Book Review: Escaping The Darkness: Running From My Dreams written by Christopher Bice Copyright (C) 2021 Mary-Lisa Russo AuthorYou have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate having majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups. She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors. Categories |
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