Open a new door: a collection of poems
by Robbie Cheadle and Kim Blades
“Open a new door” is a collection of various types of poetry penned by two poets. The book was broken down into four sections, and within those, there were three reactions the authors called the good, bad, and ugly. This offers insight into living in South Africa and how the women navigate their lives. It’s deeply personal, and at the end of most of the poetry, there is more insight from the author which added another depth. Ms. Cheadle and Ms. Blades’ thoughts, fears, and reflections examine family to human existence, and are mixed with many other emotions throughout the book. This was an honest assortment of poems that I enjoyed, with so many ideas all combined nicely into this compelling compilation.
House of Sorrow: Legends of Madeira
by Joan Hall
“House of Sorrow” is a short story and prequel to an upcoming series. Ruth lived by herself, and her family wanted her to move into assisted living, but she refuses. Then she reflects upon her past and what led her to that point in her life. I loved going back to the 1960s and reliving the trips to the moon. I can still vividly remember that event, and Ms. Hall caught the excitement, pride, and worry of the moment through Ruth’s eyes. Ruth and her husband had moved to a new town and an older Victorian house. She fit right into the community with her infectious personality. I loved her relationship with the neighborhood kids and an older neighbor, Sam. Although Ruth didn’t believe in curses, as more of the house’s history is revealed, it doesn’t concern her. This story pulled me in, and I can’t wait to read the first book to see what happens next.
Lockdown Innit: Poems About Absurdity
by M.J. Mallon
“Lockdown Innit” is a glimpse into the pandemic through poetry. There were various subjects and types of poetry, including going to the supermarket, driving, cancer, and books. I laughed when reading “SuperMarket Bozos,” it reminded me of my feisty grandmother. “ROAD RAGE DURING COVID-19” is an all too often occurrence, even during the last year. While “Little Library” offered a picture of something one could do during the stay-at-home orders, read. The collection ended with “THIS author longs for Pets,” and I admit jumping into a cat’s dream might be that perfect escape from the heaviness of the epidemic. This is a book I’d like to go back and read ten years from now as a reminder of this time in history because it gives a unique perspective into strange times.
I only post my 4 & 5-star reviews. If I don’t like a book, I won’t finish it. It doesn’t feel right leaving a review in that case, but I have been known to email the author:) Life is too short not to enjoy every book you read!
Embrace your inner child by reading a good book! D. L. Finn
An interesting selection, Denise, thank you for the reviews!
eden
Thank you, Eden. I made a point of reading a lot of poetry last month:) xo
HI Denise, that you for your lovely review of Open a New Door. I am delighted you enjoyed it. I have Joan’s book on my kindle and have just read Marje’s Mr Sagittarius which I really enjoyed.
I did enjoy it, Robbie and your insights. Mr. Sagittarius was a really fun read and I’m sure you’ll enjoy Joan’s story. Happy reading:)
Hi Denise. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful review of Lockdown Innit. I really appreciate it so much. Some great reviews here for community members. I’ve just shared a review of Robbie’s A Ghost And His Gold which is awesome. Happy reading!
I’m always happy to share my good reads, Marje! I’m looking forward to reading A Ghost and his Gold, I’ve been waiting for it on Kindle. Happy Reading! Xo
Awesome, you are such a kind member of the writing community Denise. Xxx
Thank you, Marje:) So are you!
Aww thank you! x
These all sound good, Denise. I’ve read House of Sorrow and really enjoyed it. Both books of poetry have me intrigued, especially Open a New Door.
Thanks, Mae:) All worthy of a read each with its own insights. It was a productive Poetry month for me.
Great reviews, Denise. There are a couple here that I haven’t read and will have to check out. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Thanks, Harmony:) I had fun catching up on my poetry reading last month and enjoyed every moment of it!
Thank you for the lovely review of my book. Open a New Door sounds intriguing. I’ll have to check that one out!
It was a great read I hope more people get to enjoy.
The poetry offers a unique insight. Happy reading.
Wonderful new temptations.
Thanks, Craig, they sure are 🙂
Excellent reviews, Denise. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, John 🙂
😊
Wonderful reviews, Denise. Thank you for sharing. I’ve read House of Sorrow and loved it. I’m looking forward to reading the others.😊
Thank you, Gwen 🙂 I’m really looking forward to The upcoming series!
I had a good month of poetry reading and you can’t go wrong with any of these. Xo
Good collection! I have to say, “Poems about absurdity” catches my attention these days.
Thank you, I hope you enjoy if you give it a go Jacqui. 🙂
Thanks, Jacqui 🙂 Yes, that caught my attention too! Happy reading.
I love your reviews Denise… short and meaningful! I have read Robbie’s poetry amongst these books and liked the realistic situations that have been handled in a sensitive manner.
Thanks, Balroop 🙂 I try to write reviews that I’d be likely to read. Yes, they handled the subjects well, I agree.
Thanks for–as always–sharing the great reviews. Wishing much success to the authors.
Did you have a grand Mother’s Day?
I’m happy to share the books I enjoyed reading:) I did! A wonderful hike and BBQ. How about you?
Three wonderful reviews, Denise. I read Lockdown Innit several months ago and still remember my fave poem: “Horses Like Statues.” It’s a good collection.
Thanks, Priscilla:) That was a good one too. I love when we can keep thinking about the poems long after we read them. It was!
Thank you so much Priscilla. Horses are wonderfully inspiring!:
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on these three books, Denise. I haven’t yet read the two poetry books, but thoroughly enjoyed Joan’s new short story!
Happy to share them, Jan. Yes, Joan’s story was a good one and I’m eager to read the series. I had fun catching up on some poetry last month.
Open A New Door sounds very insightful. Thanks for sharing. Did you have a wonderful Mother’s Day? xoxo
It was insightful, Sandra and gave two points of views. It was a wonderful day with my daughters and grandkids. How about yours?
I’ve read two of the three and greatly enjoyed them, and the third is on my watchlist. Great reviews, Denise, thanks!
Happy to share, Jacquie:) You have a good read ahead!
Excellent books! Thanks for sharing, Denise. 🙂
Thank you, Mark!
Thanks, Mark:) I’m happy to share them. Happy you stopped by.