Tag: poem

Vampire Verses by LindaAnn LoSchiavo Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author and poet LindaAnn LoSchiavo shares the power and seductive nature of the supernatural in the book “Vampire Verses.”

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The Synopsis

“Vampire Verses” explores the seductive mystique of the shadow sphere and savors the forbidden allure of encounters with the supernatural — illustrated by spooky full-page artwork.

For lovers of Gothic poetry and vampire lore, this collection captures what makes these immortals irresistible: their paradoxical existence where death becomes a gateway to living more intensely.

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The Review

The gothic horror atmosphere in these poems, and the blend of humor, heart, and dread, were so perfect for this collection. The haunting imagery found in these poems perfectly captures the bloody and visceral nature of vampirism and the supernatural draw that so many people have towards the genre and this particular supernatural creature.

The heart of these poems is so much more than the vampire angle, however. It is a beautiful fusion of history, mythology, and pop culture, delivered with a poetic touch. The poem “When We Rented ‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’” gave readers a first-person perspective on how vampires would respond to a slasher flick of that caliber, and the section highlighting the impact Bram Stoker had on the genre was also thrilling. The shifting points of view in each poem and the way the poems delve into power dynamics in relationships, people’s fascination with death and danger, and what happens when a person’s needs overpower them, become powerful themes that bring these poems to life eloquently.

The Verdict

Memorable, thought-provoking, and enthralling, author LindaAnn LoSchiavo’s “Vampire Verses” is a must-read gothic horror collection of poems. The humorous illustrations, tidbits of knowledge, and quotes on history and mythology throughout the collection helped elevate the pop culture references and balance the tones in this very atmospheric collection. Readers will return to it time and time again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

A native New Yorker, LoSchiavo has received nominations for the Pushcart Prize, Rhysling Award, Best of the Net, the IPPY Award, CLMP’s Firecracker Award, Balcones Poetry Prize, and Dwarf Stars. She is a member of Science Fiction Poetry Assoc., The British Fantasy Society, and The Dramatists Guild.

Her poetry chapbooks include “Conflicted Excitement” [Red Wolf Editions, 2018], “Concupiscent Consumption” [Red Ferret Press, 2020], “Women Who Were Warned” [Cerasus Poetry, May 2022], and “Messengers of the Macabre” co-authored with David Davies [Audience Askew, October 2022].

Her full-length collections include Elgin Award winner “A Route Obscure and Lonely” [Wapshott Press, Dec. 2019] and “Apprenticed to the Night” [UniVerse Press, 2023].

Three of her short stories appear in “A Feast of Narrative,” Vol. 1 [Idea Press, 2020], edited by Tiziano Dossena.

Book Trailer:  https://youtu.be/V0vyi_v8hfU

https://www.prolificpulse.com/lindaannloschiavo

Editorial Review: “Cancer Courts My Mother” by LindaAnn LoSchiavo

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GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18972725.LindaAnn_LoSchiavo

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/LindaAnn-LoSchiavo/author/B084WSGD5K

* * “Apprenticed to the Night” [U.K.: UniVerse Press, 2023]

* * Publisher’s site: https://universepress.net/product/apprenticed-to-the-night/

* * Interview: https://spkofmarvels.wordpress.com/2023/02/09/lindaann-loschiavo/

* * Interview: https://medium.com/interstellar-flight-press/caught-between-two-worlds-family-far-away-places-and-formal-poetry-270426062797

* * Book Trailer: “Women Who Were Warned”

* * Book Review: “Women Who Were Warned”

Critic Yasmine Dashti

https://www.fahmidan.net/book-reviews

* * Interview & excerpts:

Women Who Were Warned – Book Excerpt

* * “Messengers of the Macabre” ― website: https://messengersofthemacabre.com/

* * Book Review: “Messengers of the Macabre”

Critic Joshua Gage

Review: Messengers of the Macabre by LindaAnn LoSchiavo and David Davies

Critic Jodie Crump

Messengers of the Macabre: Halloween Poems by LindaAnn LoSchiavo and David Davies

* * Book Trailer: “Messengers of the Macabre”

* * LindaAnn Literary: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHm1NZIlTZybLTFA44wwdfg

* * Twitter: @Mae_Westside

https://amzn.to/48UetHn

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Singing the Forge by G.H. Mosson Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Blog Tours, Book Events, reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author and poet G.H. Mosson shares poems and vignettes that explore the things that have shaped us in the book “Singing the Forge.”

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The Synopsis

Version 1.0.0

Singing the Forge explores the singing of what’s shaped us and what we’ve shaped for ourselves. Through poems at times personal, plus vignettes from men and women of the past two centuries in the book’s middle section, these poems offer mirrors of becomings. Across free verse, meter, and poems of organic form, you might just see yourself.

The Review

Immediately, I was drawn to the author’s ability to create poems that felt very lyrical in nature, bringing a story-like quality to each poem that conveys a theme and evokes an emotional response in the reader. The powerful imagery these poems delve into is compelling, as seen in the poem “Domination of Tulips in Washington D.C.,” where Rock Creek Park comes alive on the page and petals become doorways to the heart of the flower. 

The draw of this collection lies in the strong, powerful themes of forging and awakening that the poems explore. The concept of forging not only brings to mind the idea of creation, but the idea of reshaping things and reinforcing things through fire, a visual and visceral theme the author uses to connect readers with the raw poetry that calls for those moments o f personal change and growth through trials and tribulations, both on an individual scale and even some on much more cosmic scales, such as the idea of time and memory itself taking on whole new meanings.

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The Verdict

Thoughtful, moving, and engaging, author G.H. Mosson’s “Singing the Forge” is a must-read collection of poetry. The deliberate, emotive, and introspective nature that the author brings to each poem, along with the almost lyrical and passionate style of writing, will stay with readers and keep them coming back time and again to delve into this collection. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

G. H. Mosson’s poetry has appeared in The Tampa Review, The Lyric,

Smartish Pace, California Quarterly, and has been nominated four times for the Pushcart Prize.

This is his sixth book of poetry. For more, see www.ghmosson.com

https://www.davidrobertbooks.com/mosson.html

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/singing-the-forge-g-h-mosson/1147326480?ean=9781625494801

https://amzn.to/3JHET5n

Finality of the Heart by James W.A. Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author and poet James W.A. shares a collection of poems that tells the story of a boy falling in love with a girl and their relationship with each other and their faith in the book “Finality of the Heart.”

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The Synopsis

In another poetry collection, award-winning author James W. A. weaves the tale of a boy in love with a girl named Ella. Told across four sections, the themes in the individual poems progress from the newfound bliss of a budding relationship to the discernment of what it means for them, through the eyes of faith. From there, our story finds itself with two endings. In one, Ella and the speaker find lasting joy with each other and live their Forever. In another, the speaker is judged to be a Failure and must grapple with the sorrow of that future. No matter the true ending, this collection contains poems about love, loss, purpose, relationship with God and others, and what it means to embrace, for good or for ill, the Finality of the Heart.

The Review

This was such a rich and engaging book of poetry. The author writes in a way that feels both emotional and soulful at once, tapping into the rich tapestry of humanity and exploring one of the world’s most time-honored and compelling life goals: the act of falling in love. The vivid imagery found throughout these poems was astounding, and the author wrote in such a way that readers could easily connect with the story being depicted and empathize with the characters these poems brought to life.

That was what stood out so perfectly, the story. The narrative aspect of these poems made their meanings feel more engaging, and the themes these poems brought to life were equally engaging. The theme not only of love, but also of maintaining that love and balancing it with the personal relationship a person has with their own faith, was strongly felt. Yet, it was the love that had me hooked time and again in poems such as “Daylight Savings Time,” “Just One More,” and “Me Without You.”

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The Verdict

Emotional, compelling, and heartfelt, author James W.A.’s “Finality of the Heart” is a must-read narrative poetry collection. The depth of the story being told, the vivid imagery in the author’s writing, and the dynamic themes explored in the poems will have readers returning to this collection time and again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today! 

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

James W. A. was born and raised in the Tampa Bay area in Florida and now happily lives just outside Kansas City, Missouri. After graduating from the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg’s Honors College, he published his first book, In the Library, in 2015 and his second, the award-winning poetry collection Desolation and Epiphany, in 2023. 

Poetry from James W. A. has also been featured in the literary magazines Neptune, Nectar,and The Secret Society of Poetry and he has showcased and facilitated workshops locally through KC Poetic Underground. With his newest collection, Finality of the Heart, James W. A. capitalizes on his long-time love for romantic poetry and penchant for dramatic melancholy to share a meaningful tale of duality he hopes will last through the ages.

https://thejameswa.com/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/finality-of-the-heart-james-w-a/1147699460?ean=9798218700492

https://amzn.to/46EKVfY

First Light, Last Light by Glen Sorestad Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author and poet Glen Sorestad shares the reflections on life and the wildlife around us all that readers have come to expect from him in the book “First Light, Last Light.”

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The Synopsis

A new book of poetry from Glen Sorestad, one of Canada’s elder literary icons, is cause for celebration.

First Light, Last Light is the first book in six years by Sorestad, who was Saskatchewan’s first poet laureate, serving two terms. As might be expected from a poet now in his 80s, the work in this volume is a mix of reflections on family, memories of youth and friends, and the not-always-pleasant aging process, all viewed with compassion, wisdom and, often, humour.

Sorestad is also a keen observer of the wildlife around him, from the birds who come to the feeder outside his window – damn those bully crows! – to the foxes and other wildlife he and his wife sometimes encounter on their morning walks.

First Light, Last Light is a book to read again and again, and treasure.

The Review 

A stunning and compelling collection of poems, this book does a remarkable job of balancing the author’s memories and personal experiences with musings on life and the world around him, including the nature and animal life that make the Canadian region so revered. The straightforward, almost storytelling aspect of the author’s writing style stood out immediately, as if the reader were stepping into the author’s life with them and living through these moments together.

The imagery and themes of this collection are what stood out the most. The emotional themes of grief, memory, and connection are palpable in poems like “My Father’s Voice” and “Don’t Talk to Strangers.” In contrast, poems like “Mid-Winter” captured the cold, chilly, and stark beauty of winter in Canada, and each word felt almost tactile when delivered in the author’s unique voice. The author’s ability to convey these powerful themes through the portrayal of ordinary events, such as missing out on his father’s unique talent or going to the grocery store, highlights how emotion and heart can exist in the smallest of moments —a message that permeates this collection.

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The Verdict

Emotional, heartfelt, and memorable, author and poet Glen Sorestad’s “First Light, Last Light” is a must-read poetry collection. The fast-paced collection and the way readers can pick up, put down, and pick back up again showcase the power and depth of these poems, as well as the emotional weight they carry when readers delve into a collection that feels personal and introspective in its own right. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Glen Sorestad is a Canadian poet, born in Vancouver, but living most of his life in Saskatchewan. He has been a teacher of literature and writing, a literary publisher and a writer, best known for his many books of poetry. He has been a recipient of the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals and is a Life Member of both The League of Canadian Poets and the Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild. He was made a Member of the Order of Canada in 2010. Sorestad loves travel, fishing and is an ardent fan of the Saskatchewan Roughriders football team.

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/first-light-last-light-glen-sorestad/1147028154?ean=9781998273461

https://amzn.to/4nD0IBY

MedEvac by Andrew LaFleche Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author and poet Andrew LaFlechce shares a heartfelt and honest poetry collection in the book “MedEvac.” 

The Synopsis

From award-winning author and veteran Andrew Lafleche, MedEvac is a raw and reflective poetry collection. It delves into the harrowing realities of combat in Afghanistan, the anguish of divorce, the loss of a child, and the destructive force of alcoholism. With brutal honesty and unflinching introspection, Lafleche captures the weight of grief and the search for meaning, both in life and in faith. In MedEvac, poetry becomes a vehicle for self-examination and spiritual reflection, making it a powerful read for those familiar with trauma.

“I will not cry here, at least

I cannot let him see me cry in this place, even

though I’ve come to learn that being a man

isn’t the ability to hold back tears, rather,

understanding the things in life which matter

most when lost will make you weep. Still,

brave for him, faking it for me. “I knew you’d

come, daddy. They told me you might not

make it in time, whatever that meant. But

I knew you’d come.”

—MedEvac

Written with heartsick honesty, the collection concludes in collision with an acceptance that will break your heart. It offers refuge for those who wish to find peace:

The Review

The wellspring of emotion that this collection inspires is gut-wrenching and heartfelt, speaking with an intensity and honesty that is truly impactful. Each poem’s imagery paints an emotional picture in the reader’s mind, allowing these haunting themes to give beautiful life on the page.

The Themes, of course, are this collection’s driving force, covering everything from grief, war, alcoholism, divorce, and so much more. The personal and honest nature of the poems allows these themes to rise and delve into the heart of what it means to be human, never once shying away from the messy side of these painful memories yet using an artist’s mind to find beauty in the chaos. Through that chaos and beauty, the writer finds a universally beloved voice everyone can relate to, naturally connecting the author’s experiences to the reader.

The Verdict

Memorable, honest, and emotionally driven, author Andrew LaFleche’s “MedEvac” is a must-read poetry collection. The heartfelt delivery of each poem, the relatability of the poems and their powerful themes, and the way the author has given life to the buried pain and grief so many share in life made this a remarkable collection that is not to be missed. Be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Andrew LaFleche is the award-winning poet and novelist from St. Catharines, Ontario. He served under Operation Enduring Freedom during the Afghanistan War. Following his duty as an infantry soldier in the Canadian Armed Forces, Lafleche received an M.A. in Creative and Critical Writing from the University of Gloucestershire. He is inspired by the philosophy that when young men become readers, they become better men.

Felones de se by LindaAnn LoSchiavo Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

TRIGGER WARNING: Content in these poems deals with themes of self-harm, including unaliving oneself. Reader discretion is advised.

Author and poet LindaAnn LoSchiavo shares an honest and heartfelt collection of poems directed at a personal loss from suicide in the book “Felones de se.”

The Synopsis

With a sprinkling of dark humor and a full measure of

compassion, “Felones de Se: Poems about Suicide” is

surprising, quirky, and a riveting read. Inspired by actual

suicides, one of them a blood relative, these poems are

resonant, impossibly moving, bittersweet, and strange.

The Review

While a touchy, heartbreaking, and taboo subject, the poet in this book skillfully captures the depth of emotion and confusion that often surrounds the taking of one’s life. The honest depiction of both those who take this action and those left behind in the wake of those decisions will resonate with many people affected by this real-life tragedy. The author captures the complexity and heart surrounding this subject in such a short amount of time.

What stays with the reader the most is the beautiful prose for which the author writes and the stories behind these poems. The collection ranges from personal experiences with a lost loved one to national cases that captured the public eye and more. The artful way the author uses imagery in the writing style of this collection and the haunting dive into the mindset and emotional wave that takes over in those moments will stay with the reader.

The Verdict

Haunting, moving, and engaging, author LindaAnn LoSchiavo’s “Felones de se” is a must-read chapbook and poetry collection. The author’s skill in writing this collection and the sensitive yet honest depiction of this subject will stay with the reader, and the emotional weight will be felt long after the book ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Native New Yorker LindaAnn LoSchiavo, a four time nominee for The Pushcart Prize, has also been nominated for Best of the Net, the Rhysling Award, and Dwarf Stars. She is a member of British Fantasy Society, HWA, SFPA, and The Dramatists Guild.

Books: “A Route Obscure and Lonely” [Elgin Award winner, Wapshott Press]; “Women Who Were Warned” [Cerasus Poetry, 2022], “Messengers of the Macabre” [Audience Askew, 2022, co-written with David Davies], “Vampire Ventures” [Alien Buddha Press, 2023], “Felones de Se: Poems about Suicide” [Ukiyoto Publishing, 2024], “Apprenticed to the Night” [UniVerse Press, 2024], and “Always Haunted: Hallowe’en Poems” [Wild Ink, 2024], winner of The Chrysalis BREW Award for Excellence.

In 2023, her poetry placed as a finalist in Thirty West Publishing’s “Fresh Start Contest” and in the 8th annual Stephen DiBiase contest.

LoSchiavo is a Prohibition Era historian and her Texas Guinan film won “Best Feature Documentary” at N.Y. Women’s Film Fest (Dec. 2021).

― ― links ― ―

https://linktr.ee/LindaAnn.LoSchiavo

A Journey of Perspective (GROWTH) by Dune Stewart Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author Dune Stewart shares a personal journey of tackling depression, anxiety and identity through powerful personal narrative and poetry in the collection “A Journey of Perspective (GROWTH)”.

The Synopsis

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**A Journey of Perspective** by Dune Stewart is an evocative exploration of the human spirit, captured through a powerful blend of poetry and personal narrative. Written during a time of deep introspection, this collection delves into the raw emotions of depression, anxiety, and the search for identity. Stewart’s words paint a vivid picture of the struggles and triumphs that define our lives, offering readers a chance to see the world through the lens of someone who has faced darkness and found the strength to rise above it.

From poignant reflections on love and loss to candid discussions about mental health, Stewart’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and self-discovery. This book is not just a collection of poems—it’s a testament to the enduring human spirit and the belief that even in our most challenging moments, there is always hope.

*A Journey of Perspective* is a must-read for anyone seeking solace in their struggles, inspiration in their journey, and a reminder that we are never truly alone.

The Review

This was such a personal and heartfelt collection of poetry. The imagery and raw nature of the collection allowed the reader to view the journey that the author took to heal and find himself amidst the issues he was facing. The relatability and honesty that the author and poet conveyed in these poems will strike a harmonious chord with readers who are facing similar situations as the author.

What stood out was how the author’s writing style came across as a balance of stream-of-consciousness with artistic flair. The author was able to bring powerful themes of mental health struggles, body image struggles, and depression to these poems without being too on the nose with them. This allowed the reader to feel the raw emotions of the poems and the notes of hope that are peppered throughout the book, bringing a sense of inspiration.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, engaging, and memorable poetry, author Dune Stewart’s “A Journey of Perspective (Growth)” is a must-read poetry collection. The hopeful tone and the relatability of the author’s struggles and achievements when dealing with mental health made this a personal and promising read. If haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

I wrote my first book thinking I was becoming a recluse as a result of feeling lonely, but it quickly changed once I harnessed my energy into the act of writing poetry. I found myself beginning to regain who I had lost, and I will always be grateful for the craft.

In addition, I am a professional photographer, podcast host, and twitch streamer. You can find my photography at Dune Stewart Photography, my podcast at Do You Like Ice Cream? : An Artist Podcast, and my twitch profile at R2DUNE2.

https://www.dunestewart.com

Always Haunted: Hallowe’en Poems by LindaAnn LoSchiavo Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author and poet LindaAnn LoSchiavo share a collection of poems that will explore the reimagining of true crimes and injustices through a Halloween lens in the collection “Always Haunted: Hallowe’en Poems.”

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The Synopsis

Trick or treat twisted with treachery.

Haunting and harrowing visions of All Hallows’ Eve here include horrific crimes committed on October 31st, a honeymoon homicide, mysterious witches, amorous vampires, dead serious poltergeists, along with a pageant of autumnal imagery sure to evoke goosebumps beyond the spooky season. Wearing the cunning costume of a Hallowe’en poetry collection, 24 poems reimagine macabre true crimes and explore injustices brought to life by original artwork.

The Review

What a powerful and remarkable read. The author did a wonderful job of balancing themes of horror and the supernatural with true crime and historical injustice against women. The imagery (both the original illustrations and the imagery in the author’s writing) allowed the reader to be transported instantly into these poetic stories. The infusion of so many styles of poetry, from the almost Shakespearean retelling of the legend of Sleepy Hollow to the modern-day examination of Dracula’s social media presence, allowed the reader to be entertained while tapping into an emotional wellspring that horror and poetry fans can enjoy.

There were many powerful moments found in this book that spoke to the Halloween fan in all of us, as well as the meaningful moments in history when women fell victim to everything from fear to crimes, both social and personal. One great example that was a favorite of mine was Hetty Green, the Witch of Wall Street, showcasing how women are often misrepresented in life whenever they succeed where men have failed. The power of these poems and the way they illustrate how horror often mirrors real life made this a powerful collection.

The Verdict

Heartfelt, highly creative, and entertaining author LindaAnn LoSchiavo’s “Always Haunted: Hallowe’en Poems” is a must-read collection of poetry this fall. The incredible imagery and haunting presence each poem brings will keep readers coming back to this book time and time again. If you haven’t yet, preorder your copy today or get your copy on October 1st, 2024! 

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Native New Yorker LindaAnn LoSchiavo, a four time nominee for The Pushcart Prize, has also been nominated for Best of the Net, the Rhysling Award, and Dwarf Stars. She is a member of SFPA, The British Fantasy Society, and The Dramatists Guild.

Elgin Award winner “A Route Obscure and Lonely” (US: Wapshott Press, 2019), “Women Who Were Warned” (UK: Cerasus Poetry, 2022), Firecracker Award, Balcones Poetry Prize, Quill and Ink, Paterson Poetry Prize, and IPPY Award nominee “Messengers of the Macabre” [co-written with David Davies] (US: Audience Askew, 2022), “Apprenticed to the Night” (UK: UniVerse Press, 2023), and “Felones de Se: Poems about Suicide” (Canada: Ukiyoto Publishing, 2023) are her latest poetry titles.

In 2023, her poetry placed as a finalist in Thirty West Publishing’s “Fresh Start Contest” and in the 8th annual Stephen DiBiase contest.

LoSchiavo is a Prohibition Era historian and her Texas Guinan film won “Best Feature Documentary” at N.Y. Women’s Film Fest (Dec. 2021).

― ― links ― ―

https://linktr.ee/LindaAnn.LoSchiavo

AWARD LINK:    https://thechrysalisbrewproject.com/2024/07/23/book-review-always-haunted-halloween-poems-by-lindaann-loschiavo/AWARD  Press Release:  https://www.newsnetmedia.com/story/51134515/the-chrysalis-brew-project-announces-the-recent-winners-of-the-brew-international-blog-and-book-awards

Knowing: Poems by Mark Cox Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews2 Comments

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author and poet Mark Cox shares the best and worst of the human condition through the poetry collection, “Knowing”.

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The Synopsis

Mark Cox pulls no punches in these candid poems about family, relationships, loss, regret, growing older and our human condition, generally. “Looking back for a low point marking the worst of my insobriety, it might be that signal moment I put out my cigarette in the holy water font of St. Paul’s Catholic church, right in front of the priest, I might add. . . ” Sometimes wry, sometimes tender, always honest and thought provoking, this is the seventh volume of poetry from a lauded veteran poet who has been publishing prominently for almost forty years.

The Review

What immediately stands out from the author’s work is the honesty and depth with which they delve into the themes of this collection. The self-reflection and almost story-like writing style allow the reader to be drawn into each poem, and the author holds no punches as they bring the truth behind each theme that so many readers can identify with.

The themes that the author explores are truly remarkable. The poem True North, for instance, delves into the struggles and downfalls of insobriety, hitting when a person hits rock bottom or comes to see in themselves the narrow path they had put themselves on. Themes of family, divorce, grief, and loss all roll together, connecting the reader with the author profoundly. 

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and honest author Mark Cox’s “Knowing” is a must-read poetry collection. The diverse nature of the themes and the compelling sense of empathy that the poems instill in the reader will stay with them long after the book’s final page. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

MARK COX has authored six other volumes of poetry, the most recent being Readiness (2018) and Sorrow Bread: Poems 1984-2015 (2017). He has a forty-year history of publication in prominent magazines and his honors include a Whiting Writers’ Award, a Pushcart Prize, the Oklahoma Book Award, and The Society of Midland Authors Poetry Prize. He chairs the Department of Creative Writing at UNC Wilmington and teaches in the Vermont College of Fine Arts MFA Program.