05 Nov

Posted at 05:42h in Reviews by

Book Review: The Truth About Magic: Poems by Atticus There are certain books that feel like they were written just for you at a specific moment in time, and Atticus's The Truth About Magic felt just like that for me. As I sat curled up on my couch with a warm cup of tea, the vibrant cover featuring a pink and purple sky practically beckoned me to discover what lay inside. Atticus, known for his poignant musings on love and life, has a talent for weaving magic into the...

02 Nov

Posted at 06:19h in Reviews by

Exploring the Essence of Storytelling: A Review of On Stories: And Other Essays on Literature by C. S. Lewis When I first picked up On Stories: And Other Essays on Literature, I felt that familiar thrill, a flutter of excitement reserved for the works of C. S. Lewis. Known for his remarkable ability to weave profound truths into engaging narratives, Lewis's insights on storytelling promised to resonate deeply with my experiences as both a reader and an aspiring writer. This book is a treasure trove for anyone who has...

28 Oct

Posted at 03:22h in Reviews by

Unpacking Writing About Writing: A Personal Journey When I first picked up Writing About Writing by Elizabeth Wardle and Doug Downs, I felt a blend of excitement and trepidation. As someone who has always loved the craft of writing yet grappled with its complexities, the idea of delving into “threshold concepts” that could potentially sharpen my skills seemed almost too good to be true. Little did I know, this guide would become a cornerstone in my journey toward better writing. At a hefty 736 pages, Writing About Writing is no...

27 Oct

Posted at 18:20h in Reviews by

Review of The Successful Novelist: A Lifetime of Lessons About Writing and Publishing by David Morrell When I first picked up The Successful Novelist, I was intrigued by David Morrell's reputation as the father of Rambo and a seasoned author with over fifty years in the publishing world. Writing has always felt like both magic and mystery to me; it’s a daunting endeavor that many dream of but few truly understand. David Morrell’s ability to demystify the process felt like just what I needed. This book promised not only...

25 Oct

Posted at 10:11h in Reviews by

Unraveling the Heroine's Journey: A Journey of My Own When I first picked up The Heroine’s Journey: For Writers, Readers, and Fans by the immensely talented Gail Carriger, I felt a wave of excitement wash over me. Having grown weary of the hero’s journey trope that has dominated storytelling for so long, I was eager to dive into a world where women's narratives took center stage. Carriger is not just any author; she’s a New York Times bestselling powerhouse known for blending genres with wit and charm, which immediately...

22 Oct

Posted at 12:01h in Reviews by

Exploring the Heart of Lisbon: A Review of The Bookshop of Secrets There's something undeniably enchanting about stories set against the backdrop of World War II, where the stakes are as high as the human spirit's resolve. When I stumbled upon The Bookshop of Secrets by Kerry Barrett, I felt an immediate pull—not just because of its intriguing premise but also because it promised a delightful blend of mystery, history, and a dash of romance nestled within the picturesque streets of Lisbon. With both excitement and curiosity, I delved...

19 Oct

Posted at 18:09h in Reviews by

Book Review: The Re-Write by Lizzie Damilola Blackburn From the moment I laid eyes on The Re-Write, I knew I was in for something special. Lizzie Damilola Blackburn, author of the acclaimed Yours Truly, has crafted a second-chance romance that is not just fun and exciting, but also layered with depth and heart. The premise—ghostwriting for an ex who’s recently been skewered by the tabloids—immediately hooked me. It’s a universal tale of love, betrayal, and redemption, yet Blackburn's unique voice breathes new life into a familiar narrative. Overview of Themes...

16 Oct

Posted at 11:40h in Reviews by

Writing as a Way of Life: A Book About Art, Craft, and Devotion - A Reflection on Commitment and Creativity When I first picked up Writing as a Way of Life by Brian Morton, I was immediately drawn to the title. As someone who has danced back and forth with the written word, it struck me as a curious blend of reverence and practicality, hinting at a journey of both discovery and discipline. Morton, a seasoned novelist and memoirist, brings forth a wealth of experience that feels...

14 Oct

Posted at 23:36h in Reviews by

Finding My Voice: A Journey with Sandford Lyne's Writing Poetry from the Inside Out As a lifelong lover of words, the promise of unlocking my poetic voice in Writing Poetry from the Inside Out by Sandford Lyne felt like an invitation to a hidden world I knew existed but had never dared to explore. With a background as a national poetry workshop leader, Lyne’s approach promised a balance of structured guidance and free-spirited exploration—a tantalizing combination for anyone eager to venture into the realm of poetry. From the moment I...

11 Oct

Posted at 23:28h in Reviews by

Unlocking My Inner Poet: A Journey with The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing Poetry When I first stumbled upon The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing Poetry by Nikki Moustaki, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. Like many, I had a fraught relationship with poetry during my school days—struggling to understand the nuances of rhyme and meter, often turning in blank pages out of frustration. Yet, as I’ve matured, I've come to appreciate the emotional power of verse and wanted to explore this creative realm. This guide...