My dear friends, Myths of the Mirror has been a labor of love for almost 14 years. During that time, it became a place where I grew friendships, celebrated books, dabbled in art and the written word, and shared life here on the mountain. Thanks to you, there has been a lot of laughter, love, and kindness here. Blogging turned out to be everything I’d hoped it would be.
But the last 16 months have been hard, and I can’t seem to shake my outrage and despair over the changes happening in the US. Undoubtedly, you’ve noticed my absences and lack of posts. To be cheery would feel disingenuous; I just can’t manage it, and I apologize for burdening you with my gloomy worries.
I’ve realized over the past few months that my malaise isn’t going to fix itself. I can’t wait it out, or depend on the world to change around me. I need a major shift in my routine, a focused mindfulness practice, and a lot of letting go. For me, that means, quite literally, disappearing into the woods.
I originally thought this would be my farewell post. But that seemed unnecessarily dramatic and permanent, and I don’t want to be a weepy puddle on the floor, overcome with regrets. So, I’ve decided to take an extended break. It may be months or a year. I may post on occasion; I may not. Myths of the Mirror will remain here, open, but quiet.
I’ll still be posting for Story Empire, and I plan to visit your blogs when time and place (and internet service) allow. I still need your books to read and will continue to post reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and Bookbub. I also plan to write.
I think that about covers it. Know that you are an utter joy, and your kindness is a precious gift in a hurting world. Be well. ❤
Image of Princess Tuvstarr by John Bauer, credit: troll enwikipediaorg3
This has been a horrifying and tragic week in the US as the rampage of cruelty, corruption, lies, and lawlessness continues. It shocks me beyond belief that about 30% of Americans think this is just fine. And some believe the cruelty hasn’t gone far enough.
In coming up with this post, I thought of the beautiful image by John Bauer. It reminds me of the story of Narcissus.
Narcissus was a young man from Greek mythology, famed for his extraordinary beauty and tragic self-obsession. He scorned all who loved him, including the nymph Echo, who wasted away from heartbreak. As punishment for his cruelty, the gods made Narcissus fall in love with his own reflection in a pool of water. Unable to pull away, he perished beside the pool. After his death, a flower—the narcissus—bloomed where he lay, a symbol of beauty and fatal vanity.
who among you smiles upon the face of malice relishing terror in the brown eyes of children do you rejoice in their tears
do you freely trade your humanity for lies faith for corruption white privilege and false power while the mad king betrays you
will you waste away enthralled with his reflection scorned by Narcissus in tragic self-obsession as penance for your cruelty
Meanwhile…
Reading has provided moments of respite, sweeping my consciousness away into stories and the entrancing worlds of imagination. I had a bout of eye surgery this month, but found time to listen to books on my phone. Thank you to everyone in this community who writes, reads, and celebrates creativity of all kinds. You are a joy and a promise for a brighter future.
***
Now, onto the reviews! Below are my reviews of four new releases, including a prehistoric fiction novel, a fantasy, a pyschological thriller, and a western romance/adventure. Something for everyone.
Click on the covers for Amazon global links.
*****
Balance of Nature (Savage Land Book 3), by Jacqui Murray.
New Release – TODAY!
Balance of Nature wraps up Murray’s third trilogy exploring the trials and adventures of prehistoric man. History has advanced to the time of the Neanderthals, and they’re the focus of the trilogy, though other versions of man (The Tall Ones) have developed alongside them.
The story begins where Book Two left off – on the edge of the Shoreless Sea, and concludes their migration away from their inhospitable homeland to a new land of plentiful game and a milder climate. Reaching a new homeland requires navigating unfamiliar terrains (including the salty sea) and learning new skills, often from others they meet along the way.
As humankind is increasingly able to master the environment, the greatest danger they face shifts—to other humans. Modern traits, such as aggressiveness, suspicion, and competitiveness, shape relationships, as does the ability to think strategically and engage in long-term planning. Primitive man’s growing ability to understand concepts gives rise to early art, spiritual beliefs about unexplained forces in the world, and what comes after death.
Shanadar, a character introduced in the previous books, becomes the group’s shaman, and readers who enjoyed the group’s canine members will be delighted to see them back. Yu’ung, who leads the People (Neanderthals), and Fierce, who leads the Tall Ones, are the main characters, and they lead the action. Though the story is told from multiple POVs, theirs are the primary ones.
I was struck by how similar these primitive humans are to modern mankind—except that they’re more resourceful, brave, and well-equipped to survive in a world where I wouldn’t last more than a couple of days, at best. The story is based on a true historical migration, which is impressive.
The author’s research into primitive man threads seamlessly through the pages and feels completely natural. There’s a Q&A at the end of the book that shares some interesting facts about Neanderthals, as well as questions for discussion. For anyone interested in learning more, the author included her bibliography.
Highly recommended to readers of prehistoric fiction and to those who want to understand more about mankind’s evolution, specifically that of the Neanderthals. (Kindle Unlimited)
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book without conditions.
*****
Fragile, by Deborah Jay
New Release
I’ve read all the books in the Five Kingdoms series and enjoyed this new one with its focus on one of the secondary characters. Betha doesn’t get a lot of play in the previous novels, and I appreciated getting to know her better. She’s a doozy of a character, and despite her “fragile” appearance and small stature, she’s a brave and determined young lady with a unique magical (and unlawful) power – the ability to heal herself.
When her brother is brutally murdered and his body eviscerated, Betha is determined to discover who’s responsible, a goal that puts her in serious danger. Her healing ability becomes an amusement for the villain, but it also saves her life. I’ll mention here, for squeamish readers, that the gentle start to the story turns increasingly bloody—not gratuitous, but intense. As a result, the stakes are sky high, and the pace picks up once the stage is set. It quickly becomes a page-turner
Betha has the POV, and she’s a fully fleshed-out character with a solid emotional foundation. Secondary characters are well-drawn, and I connected with those she was close to. Though this book stands alone well, I enjoyed knowing many of the peripheral characters already. That said, I could also see this book working just fine as a prequel (as the author suggests).
The story is full of action, just the right amount of description, and characters that are easy to root for (or dislike). It’s a great enticement for a dive into the series. Recommended to readers of fantasy and adventure who enjoy a strong female protagonist.
*****
What Else did you Do? by Laura Lyndhurst
New Release
I fully enjoyed the first Amanda Roberts psychological thriller (You Know What You Did) and looked forward to this sequel. The first book was full of delicious twists and turns and surprises, and if anyone hasn’t read it, I strongly recommend giving it a go. Book Two (this one) can be read as a standalone, but reading the first will make this one more tense. This review has no spoilers for either book.
Book Two kept me guessing right up until the end with plenty of red herrings and suspects. Amanda is just getting out of jail. She wants to rebuild her relationship with her kids and reinvigorate her life as an award-winning author.
But right from the start, all is not smooth sailing. Her ex-husband is being a jerk and threatening her, the publishing world is a mixed bag of support, and the most helpful person she knows, Rose, is a newly released criminal. A shadowy criminal organization is lurking in the background, and almost immediately, Lisa, Amanda’s publishing rival, starts receiving serious threats. The police suspect Amanda, and if not for her ankle monitor, she’d be back in jail. Threats to the women escalate to the point of murder, and they have to flee for their lives. Amanda becomes a fugitive and Lisa a prisoner. Nuff said!
Lisa and Amanda share the POV, and both characters are well fleshed out. The pace is speedy, and I read the book in two sittings. The final showdown is a page-turner with plenty of action, bullets flying, and a confession before the villain pulls the trigger… again. This is where some familiarity with the first book is helpful (but not critical). The ending wraps up well with loose ends tied up in a bow.
Highly recommended to fiction readers who enjoy thrillers, with plenty of mystery and action.
*****
Silverhills’ Rescue, by Sandra Cox
New Release
Fans of western romances will find a lot to like in this book, even though romance takes a backseat to non-stop action. Smallpox is taking lives in a Mexican mission, and Alexandra feels a deep obligation to help the people who once helped her. While her husband, Brandon, is away on a cattle drive, she rides out with a ranch hand on a perilous trip to a place where she may not survive.
The ride alone presents multiple challenges: rattlesnakes, precipitous ridges, storms, flooding rivers, aggressive cowboys, and, most dangerous of all, Comancheros bent on kidnapping Alex. She arrives at the mission only to expose herself to a deadly disease. Brandon catches up after his own ordeal, only to discover the worst.
The romance between Alex and Brandon is sweet and lusty and above all, kind and full of respect. I enjoyed their dynamics even though the danger they face, apart and together, is the focus of the read. The couple shares the POV. Both are strong-willed, fully fleshed-out characters, and with Charlie, the ranch hand, they made a dynamic trio. The loyalty, banter, and camaraderie add to the pleasure of the read.
This book works as a stand-alone without any difficulty at all. Highly recommended to readers of western romances and western adventures. (Kindle Unlimited)
I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and that your new year is filled with love, hope, peace, and prosperity … and, of course, some very Happy Reading!
We’ve had an unseasonably warm winter so far. No snow angels in the air. In fact, my garden is full of buds and shoots, and my husband just mowed the lawn.
The world still feels insane to me, but I like the quiet breathing room that the cold weather brings. As well as the slow return of the light. My time is so limited these days with my dad’s escalating needs, but I’ve started writing again after a year of struggle. I’ve carved out some time in the margins of my day. Maybe that’s a sign of good things to come.
winter by the hearth a slow unfolding of hours let the cold linger while I and my muse cocoon crafting tales by candlelight
***
Now, onto the fun stuff – books. Not too many this month, but all worthwhile reads. Below are my reviews of two poetry collections and a fantasy duology.
Click on the covers for Amazon global links.
*****
Sunflower Tanka: A 2025 Anthology of Tanka, Tanka Prose, & Experimental Tanka, contributing editors Colleen Chesebro and Robbie Cheadle
New Release
This is the second anthology of Sunflower Tanka edited by Colleen Chesebro and Robbie Cheadle. I was impressed with the first collection (based on the theme of “Into the Light”) and looked forward to diving into this one.
The theme of this collection is “Dreams,” and an introduction to the collection shares the inspiration for the theme and the many ways in which the word can be interpreted. If you seek dreams of romance, you will find a few of those – for those are a vital part of human dreaming – but there are also poems about abiding love, about loss, about regrets, disappointment, and longing. There are dreams dashed and dreams that will never come to pass. I found the collection rich in variety and many, many poems deeply resonant.
The anthology includes over 150 poems written by 54 poets from around the world. Tanka is a Japanese style of poetry, and this collection highlights several variations on the well-known 5-line tanka, including tanka-prose, taiga, bussokusekika, experimental tanka, garland tanka, and tanka puente. Each author has a “chapter” of three poems, preceded by a short bibliography, should readers want to learn more about the authors and their work.
The editors introduce each tanka form at the end of the book with examples chosen from among the submitted poetry. Some of my favorite poems were highlighted in this section.
It was challenging to pick favorites from a collection rife with beautifully written poems, so I chose two conventional tanka (only five lines) to share. Tanka are untitled.
This one is by Tammy L. Gajewski:
Momma drew a breath rattling liquid bubbled slow like new frogs in warm red mud she floated to big ursa leaving me alone in bed
And this one by Selma Martin:
all the words have faded August sun took care of that faded, too, my dreams yet bees hum ‘round globes of clover a tale sweeter than a rhyme
A highly recommended collection for lovers of poetry. (Kindle Unlimited)
*****
Rhyming Dreams: a collection of poems, by Nicole Sara
New Release (although the author has a newer release too!)
For fans of verse, this collection is indeed a “rhyming dream.” I’m usually not a fan of rhyming poetry. I think it’s hard to do well, to make it flow and feel natural, versus forced. Nicole Sara dispelled any qualms I had about picking up her collection of just over 40 poems. Her poetry is beautifully and expertly crafted, reminiscent of some of the classical poetry that has lasted through the centuries.
There’s a lightness to verse, a whimsy, that Sara makes good use of. Many of the poems are light-hearted, testaments to the beauty of nature and the power of love, but not all. This collection’s overall feel is peaceful, reflective, and grateful, with touches of longing. The depth of feeling and sophistication of the language make this a collection suited to adults, and I thought the juxtaposition with the youthful rhythm of the verse gave it an interesting quality as well as a timeless feel.
Speaking of rhythm and flow … those elements of verse are meticulously rendered.
Lavender Scent
I take the breeze like a balm to wear it as a bracelet summer leaves through the calm caressing my skin, soft and patient
Sipping the colorful air, the light melting the mist, a magical scent full of whispers fragrant around my wrist
The collection includes color images and famous quotes that I assume inspired the poetry. Regardless, they add another element of beauty to the read. Highly recommended to poetry readers, including those who don’t usually appreciate verse. This poetry will change their mind about that! (Kindle Unlimited)
*****
These Violent Delights & Our Violent Ends, by Chloe Gong
I read these books back-to-back and wrote this one review for both, since the duology tells a single story. Neither works as a stand-alone. No spoilers here for either book.
The story is set in Shanghai, just before the Chinese Revolution. Foreigners exert control over the city, sharing their power with two rival gangs—the Scarlets and the White Flowers. The heirs to each gang’s leadership, Juliette (a Scarlet) and Roma (a White Flower), secretly fell in love as young teens, but their violent families and gang culture destroyed any hope for their relationship. If you haven’t guessed, Roma and Juliette is a retelling of the famous Shakespearean play.
But the story isn’t as predictable as you might think. The plot is complex, full of secrets, misunderstandings, and danger, twists and turns, divided loyalty, and the fractured politics of the time. Plus, there are monsters that don’t care what side anyone belongs to. This is a fantasy story after all. The monsters don’t play a huge role, but they serve as a catalyst for Roma and Juliette’s secret attempts at cooperation, and in the long run, they’re an overarching danger to the city … and the country. There is violence in this book, some quite gruesome, but not overly graphic.
Layered on top of the plot is a cast of fully developed characters, not just Roma and Juliette, but also other likable gang members who make the multi-generational violence and rivalry feel both pointless and heartbreaking. The series started a little slow for me, but it wasn’t long before the characters captured my heart and kept me turning the pages.
The writing is quite lovely, and the end of the complete story left me smiling. Highly recommended to fantasy readers who enjoy a unique setting, a complex political period, and a tense, but satisfying love story. (Kindle Unlimited)
I’m late with book reviews . . . because I was late writing them . . . because I was late getting to my Kindle. But do I have a wonderful bunch of books to share – almost all new releases and all fabulous reads that were worth the wait.
I also have a link at the end for anyone who thinks “books are always beautiful.”
Below are my reviews of three, yes three, literary fiction novels; plus a short story collection, a poetry collection, a YA dark fantasy, and a middle-grade sleuthing adventure.
Click on the covers for Amazon global links.
*****
The Weight of Snow and Regret, by Elizabeth Gauffreau
New Release
This is an extremely touching read, and it’s lined up to be one of my favorites so far this year. The story is a fictionalized account of the last Poor Farm in Vermont and is based on historical events researched by the author. When talking about the book with my father, he remembers the poor farms from his youth. They were places for poor people to live when they’d run out of options – mostly elderly and people with disabilities, but also children, and those temporarily down on their luck.
The story is told primarily through the point of view of Hazel, the “matron” of the poor farm who cares for the residents while her husband runs the farm. A subplot about a woman Claire weaves through the first half of the story—how her choices bring her temporarily to the poor farm while she gets back on her feet. But it’s Hazel’s account that pulls at the heartstrings and holds the story together. She’s selfless, hard-working, and compassionate, truly an angel in her determination to provide her charges with a good life and to protect their dignity as the state moves closer and closer to shutting the farm down.
The story takes place primarily in the 1960s, but has numerous glimpses back in time to Hazel’s youth and the struggles of her family, also touched by poverty, as well as the years of her relationship with husband Paul. I liked their imperfect but loving relationship, and Paul’s small acts of kindness. The residents are quirky, endearing, challenging, joyful, and dealing with heartbreaking losses and decline.
Hazel isn’t perfect, and realistically, she isn’t able to prevent the poor farm from closing. Though I knew it was coming, it was still heartbreaking to see the bureaucracy push aside these people’s lives. Ultimately, this story, for me, was about compassion and recognizing the humanity in each person. The story takes place 60 years ago, and sadly, little seems to have changed, but it did make me appreciate the quiet heroes like Hazel that are still out there.
Highly recommended to readers of historical and literary fiction, books about rural America in the 60s, and inspiring and heartwarming stories in general.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book for an honest review.
*****
When Things Go Missing, by Deborah Brasket
New Release
This is Brasket’s debut novel, and my-oh-my, you wouldn’t know it. I read the book in one sitting and was mesmerized throughout.
In the novel’s prologue, Franny is a middle-aged wife and mother who, one day, on her way to the grocery store, just keeps driving. And driving. On occasion, she lets her family know she’s okay, but in every other way, she’s “gone missing.”
The rest of the story is about how her family deals with her absence/abandonment, how they cope (or don’t), and how they eventually, out of necessity, forge new and different lives for themselves. One thing I loved about the read was the story’s lack of judgment about Franny’s decision. Was her departure cruel, selfish, just what was needed, or none of the above? The results of her choice to leave were unpredictable, which made the book immensely compelling and kept me glued to the pages.
The POV characters (Franny’s husband, Walter, and her kids, Kay and Cal) are complex, realistic, their relationships nuanced. They reminded me of “families” with all their strengths and flaws, old wounds, judgments, hopes, anger, and love. Without their mother to depend on, to manage their relationships and smooth over their mistakes, they are forced to take charge of their lives (or not).
Cal is a junkie who’s served time and, for me, the trainwreck of his life was the most interesting to watch. Walter, the father who let his wife handle the family, is the most detached and the slowest to shift, and Kay is the most emotional and controlling.
The book could be a story about “anyone.” There’s a universal feel to the choices and outcome that felt fascinating, heartbreaking, poignant, and hopeful. No judgment. Just people finding their way. Highly recommended to readers of literary fiction who enjoy a compelling story about families that is hard to put down.
*****
Beyond the Fetters, by Balroop Singh
New Release
I’m familiar with this author from reading her poetry collections, and without a doubt, her debut novel reflects her poetic voice. Singh has a full grasp of beautiful language and imagery. However, though descriptively lush, this book doesn’t dwell on the unique scenery of India, but focuses on the emotional and psychological landscape within Earthy, a child of eight who grows to be a grandmother during the course of the read.
The story has a strong theme centered on “fetters,” shackles placed on girls and women by cultural norms that favor boys and men and relegate women to voiceless second-class citizens, often without choices. Though the story takes place in India, where the traditional oppression of women is more overt, this inequity isn’t limited to that country by any means.
Earthy is emotionally and physically abused and neglected as a child, and she spends much of the book’s sixty years processing the unseen, but very present, scars. Outwardly, her life is in many ways blessed—with higher education, a supportive marriage, a successful career, deep friendships, and parenting choices for her girls. Inwardly, her personal growth journey is more arduous and requires fortitude, psychological reflection, forgiveness, and detachment from her past, all to break the ingrained cultural fetters.
The story unfolds in an omnipresent POV, and there are large jumps in real time as her inner story takes precedence. Characters are all complex and nuanced, particularly Earthy’s mother, brother Trod, and her lifelong friend Dolly. Though the story primarily focuses on the challenges faced by girls and women in male-dominated societies, there are also consequences for men, and although subtly portrayed, I appreciated that they were noticeable.
An impressive debut novel that I highly recommend to readers of women’s lit and psychological fiction, and to those who enjoy stories about personal growth and overcoming cultural forces that hold women down. (Kindle Unlimited)
*****
Miracles & Ghosts Past: A Christmas Collection Two, by D. L. Finn
New Release
This collection of eight Christmas stories kept me entertained for an afternoon while jumping between appointments. Each story is unique, though all include a ghostly visit from a spirit who offers kind help, protection, or a wish come true. The protagonists are in rough spots, dealing with poverty, grief, or danger. In keeping with the Christmas “spirit,” the outcomes are heartwarming, full of hope, and sometimes topped off with a promise of romance in the year to come. A feel-good read, for sure.
It would be hard to pick favorites, but some stories stuck in my mind.
“The Christmas Train Mystery” – I liked everything about this one: the train setting, a woman standing up for herself, danger, good choices, and a last-minute rescue.
“Is there a Santa?” – A forlorn widower struggles to provide for his sons and receives a dreamtime message from his deceased wife. I loved the way Finn used the sense of smell in telling this story, and dads who love their children always tug at my heartstrings.
“She’s Home Alone” – One of the scarier stories in the collection. A child is alone during a snowstorm, and a prowler is outside, trying to get in. Thank goodness for the ghost that helps her through the ordeal.
“A Gift to Katie” – a wonderful rags-to-riches story. Katie was easy to root for, and I enjoyed the message that even in dire situations, and regardless of past choices, kindness is always an option.
The stories are all well-paced and wrap up with a bow. There are cute kids and pets, and all the characters, even those with secondary roles, are three-dimensional and relatable. A collection I highly recommend, especially to anyone looking for a fun and heartwarming holiday read.
*****
Ancient Voices: Poems About Ancient Egypt, by Dawn Pisturino
New Release
There are many things to like about this collection of poetry—so reminiscent of ancient Egypt that it seems like it might have been written by poets thousands of years ago. It wasn’t, of course, but the authenticity of the poetic voices felt remarkable, and they transported me back in time.
Poems about the Egyptian gods are foremost in the collection, particularly their strong role in the civilization, its history, and religion. Many of these poems are chronicles of events, or prayers for the nation, for victory, and justice. There are also poems focused on the softer side of daily life, the challenges, dreams, and prayers of ordinary citizens. These are full of heartfelt yearning and emotion, and they tap into universal human themes, making them extraordinarily relatable to modern readers. There’s a poignant sense that we’ve changed little over time, and these were some of my favorites:
The Blue Lotus
Send me to my tomb with a blue lotus in my hair. My heart will dance with joy as I run through the Field of Reeds, Free of pain and disease. Limber as a fallow deer, I will run, Ecstatic in my youthfulness. Open my nostrils with a gift of blue lotus, my dear, And I will come to you in the night, Fragile as a flower, fragrant as incense, But strong and sturdy as a papyrus reed, Eager to join you. Infuse my wine with the essence of blue lotus. Hold the cup to my nose and let me breathe. Fill my bath with blue lotus petals. I will cool my feverish body in the water for hours, Calm and tranquil, cooing with the doves. Massage my tired limbs with healing balm And lull me to sleep with promises of you.
The poet’s knowledge of ancient Egypt shines, and for the less knowledgeable of us (like me), there’s an informal glossary of terms before the final section of the book, which is a set of 12 poems describing the sun god Ra’s Night Journey—a poem for each hour. It isn’t necessary, but readers may wish to pop over there first.
This is a collection of about 80 poems, including syllabic and free-form poetry. Highly recommended to poetry readers who are looking for a beautifully written and unusual collection. (Kindle Unlimited)
*****
Amanda in Ireland: The Body in the Bog, by Darlene Foster
New Release
Every time I read one of twelve-year-old Amanda’s international adventures, I want to travel. This time to the Emerald Isle. Aside from a mystery waiting to be solved, the books are full of history and interesting details about the country, in this case touching on archeology, architecture, geology, and Irish mythology and customs.
Amanda’s in Kilkenny, Ireland, to be a junior bridesmaid at her cousin Taylor’s wedding to Roisin. Almost immediately upon arriving, Roisin and her white horse go missing. Taylor and Roisin’s family members are frantic, and Amanda starts following up on leads and trailing suspicious characters, despite the “Garda’s” warning to let the professionals handle the case.
In this book, Amanda encounters some real danger, more so than I remember in the other books I’ve read. There are some nefarious characters to be sure, as well as scary locations where Amanda becomes lost – the dark Dunmore Caves, and a nighttime bog. As always, I enjoyed Amanda’s determination, resourcefulness, and level-headedness.
Of course, as a middle-grade read, all turns out well, and the wedding is magical. Another successful travel adventure that ends with a hint at the next location: Thailand. Highly recommended to middle-grade readers, travelers interested in Ireland, and the young at heart.
Fallen Princeborn: Stolen, by Jean Lee
Though Amazon lists this book as “1 of 1,” there is a continuation that I’m sure to read. The story starts with 18-year-old Charlotte and her annoying younger sister, Anna, riding a bus to a new life, free from the abusive uncle who’s left physical and emotional scars on Charlotte for years. Besides wanting a fresh start and a chance to go to college, Charlotte is determined to keep her sister safe.
But there’s something odd going on with the bus and its driver, and the wildlife in the area isn’t behaving normally. When the bus breaks down, they’re forced to stay at an isolated inn where Anna disappears, not only physically, but from memory. But Charlotte remembers, and she’s determined to get Anna back from the dark inhabitants beyond the “wall,” even if that means sacrificing herself.
What’s beyond the wall is a compelling bit of worldbuilding. It’s dark, creepy, visceral, populated with fae-like shapeshifters, called velidevour, that feed on human life-force and are ever starved for more. Though this is a YA fantasy, some dark scenes border on horror. Dialogue (and unspoken commentary) is contemporary and edgy, perfectly reflecting the older YA protagonist.
Charlotte has allies too, particularly the handsome princeborn Liam, and Arlen, the kind and powerful proprietor of a beautiful shapeshifting home. All of the characters have complex pasts. Charlotte’s is rife with trauma that she deals with by being tough as nails, though she has a vulnerable underbelly that elicits empathy, as well as an inner voice that tries, not always successfully, to guide her. Liam is a velidevour, attempting to balance the needs of his kind with moral decision-making, and there’s no doubt of his attraction to Charlotte.
Trust is a major theme in this story, and a challenge for Charlotte. The end leaves many danglers for the next book, but the issue of trust is resolved, at least partially, at least for now. This isn’t a quick read, but its unpredictability held my attention throughout. Highly recommended to readers of dark YA fantasy. (Kindle Unlimited)
Tanka Tuesday is back after a hiatus of a few months. Thank you, Colleen, for giving this wonderful community a reason to write poetry and celebrate each other’s talents. As usual, I’m incapable of following a schedule and am responding to two Tanka Tuesday challenges instead of one.
Challenge #1 was to write a taiga, a syllabic form featuring a tanka and a black & white image (a photo, drawing, calligraphy, or painting). I was recently wandering on an empty Pacific beach and was mesmerized by the designs left in the sand (a wee slideshow).
February beach canvas of water and sand solitary gulls comb the surf for wave-tossed crabs in beauty unmarred by man
*****
Challenge #2 was a synonyms-only challenge, using synonyms for create and bright, in syllabic form. I wrote a tanka (syllable count 5/7/5/7/7) with the quasi-synonyms manifesting and illumination.
Illumination
Illumination a keen-edged and bitter sting to the darkened mind done manifesting falsehoods on the day “they came for me”
*quote from the poem “First They Came” by German pastor Martin Niemöller
*****
I’m struggling with what’s happening to my country. I didn’t vote for this travesty, but I’m going down with the 77 million who did and the 90 million who didn’t bother to vote. They’ve come for us all.
Welcome to Day One of the Seasons’ Weaver Blog Tour.
Today I’m visiting with Robbie Cheadle at her blog Roberta Writes where I’m starting off the tour with a dive into the diverse folklore origins of the magical beings, creatures, and monsters that informed the characters in the book. Join us for an introduction and a glimpse at the ordinary humans who start all the trouble.
Meet Robbie
Robbie’s one busy person – someone who isn’t only multi-talented but a multi-tasker.
Robbie manages two blogs in addition to participating in collaborative ventures with other bloggers, most recently as a contributing co-editor of the Sunflower Tanka anthology with Unicorn Cats Publishing.
Robbie’s Inspiration is her poetry, fondant art, baking, and children’s books blog, which includes reviews of children’s poetry books. Roberta Writes is her adult writing blog where she shares her poetry and prose aimed at an older audience. She posts on a variety of topics, including her writing projects, travel, and book reviews of adult books. She’s a huge supporter of the writing community.
Robbie’s one of those busy bloggers who somehow does it all. She’s written numerous children’s books, YA horror, ghost stories, a South African historical fiction/paranormal novel, short story and poetry collections, and a memoir with her mother about her mom’s childhood during WWII in England. Robbie’s poems and short stories appear in multiple anthologies and she has about 70 projects in the works (maybe a tiny exaggeration, but it seems that way to me). On top of all that, her artwork is gorgeous. I could go on and on, but it’s time for a review:
I’ve read most of Robbie’s adult books. Here’s my review of a recent release:
My Review: I’ve read most of Cheadle’s adult books and thoroughly enjoyed this collection of horror stories. Most of these stories have been published in other anthologies, but I wasn’t familiar with all of them, and the few I’d read before were well worth reading again.
For each story, Cheadle provides an afterword describing the inspiration that sparked her imagination. Sometimes it was as simple as a photo, a dance, or a gravestone. But more often, she was inspired by her research into ghost sightings or real horrors of the past, which are truly ghastly.
She fleshes out the stories with three-dimensional fictional characters, which makes many of the historical horrors heartbreaking as well as chilling. This is probably the most unique feature of this collection—not the shock value, but how they evoked empathy and made me feel. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy a unique approach to horror stories.
I enjoyed them all, but here are a few favorites: – The Bite: A wolf spider’s plan to feast on his human bride doesn’t go as expected. This is one of the few stories with a twist. – We’ll be Waiting: A woman denied love meets a horrifying end (from history). – Justice is Never Served: Another horrifying story based on a real murderess – so heartbreaking. – Hide and Seek: A bride vanishes on her wedding day, only to be found after 50 years (based on research into an English ghost). – And Eye for an Eye: The fate of two young brothers forced to sweep chimneys prior to child labor laws (another horrifying heartbreaker).
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Comments are closed here. If you have a chance, head on over to join the Tale of the Seasons’ Weaver tour at Robbie’s blog: Roberta Writes.
Thank you!
Tale of the Seasons’ Weaver Tour Schedule
January 6 – Robbie Cheadle – Introduction and Humans! January 8 – Debby Gies – Nobbin, a Hospet January 10 – Noelle Granger – Mazheven and the Wylyali January 14 – Jan Sikes – Nelithi January 16 – Teri Polen – The Winter King and North Bearfrost January 21 – D. L. Finn – The Autumn Prince January 23 – Colleen Chesebro – The Winter Queen January 27 – Miriam Hurdle – Lochalai and Watermaids January 31 – Liz Gauffreau – The Gripe February 12 – Jacqui Murray – Woodlings and the Naggris
My last four books have ended with a poem that I felt captured the essence of the story. I’ve never struggled to write those poems; they were just sitting in the brain, waiting for some nudging and budging into shape.
Not so for the Tale of the Seasons’ Weaver. My mind was blank. Nothin’. I didn’t even know where to begin. And I think there was some cosmic destiny to that floundering because only days after I gave up on the poem idea, Mike Utley posted his poem “Wisdom.”
Mike Utley
My story is partly a celebration of our exquisite earth and our vital connection to nature. When I read Mike’s poem, little lights started flashing in my eyes; bells began ringing in my ears. I mustered up some courage and emailed Mike to ask if I might publish his poem at the end of my story.
He graciously agreed. (Happy Dance!)
Mike is a mesmerizing poet, essayist, and nature photographer, and I’m honored to share his poem “Wisdom” here and in my book. To experience more of Mike’s work, please stop by his blog Silent Pariah. You won’t be disappointed.
“Wisdom“
I attain wisdom not from church or pagoda temple or tabernacle but from wood and stream respite achieved through contemplation of cloud reflections on cobalt alpine tarns hammocked among granite crags and tors restoration gifted by toes-in-sand scamperings on dayspring sea shores as gulls cavort and sand pipers tempt fate balance granted by spinning constellations as Luna tends her silver star-gardens and earth dreams its pensive dreams
there is wonder in the fractal crevasses of konara bark the labyrinths of sandstone lichen mandalas the ethereal traceries of ghostly hanging moss promise in each acorn in every copse as elder oaks impart their ken of centuries and guard arboreal nurseries with burly boughs conversation in breeze communiques thunder rumblings and rain chatter as heaven above bends earth’s ear humor in toad-trills and reed whispers the coquettish giggles of creek cascades the curious musical burlesque of insects
there is hope in sudden sunshine after a desert deluge gilded god-beam-burnished cliff and canyon arch and hoodoo ablaze with magic-hour fire solace in quiet tide pools and silent autumn leas the compassionate chants of mourning doves the cusp-of-dawn stillness as the universe holds its breath encouragement in emergent golden winter suisen evening double-rainbows over August wheat fields the strident arias of sparrow, lark and finch renewal in gamboling days-old winter calves early springtime rills’ first ice-melt the preening petals of young columbines
but most of all there is kinship among everything that lives all who call Earth home sea, land and sky and all who dwell therein we belong together not as masters of all but companions to all not as kings but stewards fellow travelers on life’s journey through glen and hollow from peak to shore sharing a common path let us revitalize our love for all things let us return to our proper place let us embrace who we are and why we are here for that is the first step toward true wisdom
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(c) 2024 Michael L. Utley published with his express permission Blog: Silent Pariah
Some of you know I’m trying to finish up a book I’ve been working on since 2022. Life got in the way, and my writing was often relegated to the back burner. But I’m getting close, finally. To the point of needing to write a blurb.
If you’re interested, I shared my blurb-writing process on Story Empire last week Here. But I didn’t share my end result. I thought I’d post it now.
Tale of the Seasons’ Weaver – Blurb
“Already the animals starve. Soon the bonemen will follow, the Moss Folk and woodlings, the watermaids and humans. Then the charmed will fade. And all who will roam a dead world are dead things. Until they too vanish for lack of remembering. Still, Weaver, it is not too late.”
In the frost-kissed cottage where the changing seasons are spun, Erith wears the Weaver’s mantle, a title that tests her mortal, halfling magic. As the equinox looms, her first tapestry nears completion—a breathtaking ode to spring. She journeys to the charmed isle of Innishold to release the beauty of nature’s awakening across the land.
But human hunters have defiled the enchanted forest and slaughtered winter’s white wolves. Enraged by the trespass, the Winter King seizes Erith’s tapestry and locks her within his ice-bound palace. Here, where comfort and warmth are mere glamours, she may weave only winter until every mortal village succumbs to starvation, ice, and the gray wraiths haunting the snow.
With humanity’s fate on a perilous edge, Erith must break free of the king’s grasp and unravel a legacy of secrets. In a charmed court where illusions hold sway, allies matter, foremost among them, the Autumn Prince. Immortal and beguiling, he offers a tantalizing future she has only imagined, one she will never possess—unless she claims her extraordinary power to weave life from the brink of death.
The Winter King and his wolves
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No cover or trailer yet. The book will be off to the editor soon, and I’ll start working on those. I’m hoping for a January release (maybe even on my birthday). Thanks for reading and stay tuned!
As August heads into the home stretch, my summer is winding down. I’m back to regular programming on the blog after accomplishing most of my goals. The garden is still thick with weeds and my next book is still languishing, but I’m at peace with the slow progress while other adventures have taken priority. I hope you had a beautiful summer (or winter) and are looking forward to the season’s changes.
Today, I’m honored to have one of my stories “The Grand Adventure” featured on Marsha Ingrao’s Always Write blog. “Story Chat” is a place to share our work and hopefully get some tidbits of feedback about what worked and what didn’t. If you have a few minutes to stop by and read, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
That’s me right now, but I don’t look quite so serene.
This summer, I thought I could manage to travel, pet sit, garden, stain the deck, paint a mural, finish writing a book, blog, and provide increased care for my dad. I was clearly kidding myself.
Inspired by one of my Story Empire colleagues, I’ve decided to take an extended blogging break. I can accomplish a lot this summer with an extra 20 hours per week.
I’ll still host monthly posts at Story Empire and share my month-end book reviews. I’ll lurk around blogland when I have the time, looking for great indie books to read (I need a bunch).
The hardest part of this break is knowing I’ll miss some dear friends while I’m gone, but I’ll be back.
Have a wonderful summer (or winter)! See you soon.
Myths of the Mirror 