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Fairy Lights: Bed Time Poems & Gallery of Fairytale Art from Yesteryear
Fairy Lights is a wonderful collection of bedtime poems interwoven with fairy lore, myth, and timeless art. Moving through the seasons of the year, the book gathers stories of spirits, shape-shifters, ocean dwellers, elven royalty, and everyday enchantments. It draws from Irish, Nordic, Greek, and New World traditions, blending them into verses that feel both ancient and freshly spoken. Each section carries its own mood, from the playful revels of spring to the melancholy mysteries of autumn and the haunting stillness of winter. Alongside the words, the author curates a gallery of fairytale art from past centuries, which adds a lovely echo of history to the poetry.
What struck me most was the way the poems refused to be pinned down. They could be lyrical and delicate in one breath, then strange, even eerie, in the next. A piece like A Piece of Amber felt tender and tragic, like a whispered legend by firelight, while something like The Baallad of Blaackie Coal made me grin with its folkloric humor and Scots cadence. I loved how the writing carried me away from reason into a place where fairies still dance, seashells sing, and even the smallest bird is mourned with reverence. The language is musical and sometimes unpredictable. At times, I found myself rereading lines not because I needed to but because I wanted to savor the rhythm.
The author clearly delights in layering metaphor upon metaphor, which creates a rich tapestry. This very quality also gives the book its dreamlike atmosphere. It reminded me of wandering through a forest at dusk, you don’t always know what you’re seeing, but the mystery is the point. I also appreciated how personal some of the poems felt. Knowing that pieces like To Wee Russet Tuft came from real experiences gave the collection an intimacy that balanced out the more mythic material.
Fairy Lights feels like a gift for anyone who still listens for magic in the quiet hours. I would recommend it to readers who love fairytales, folklore, or poetry that doesn’t mind breaking free from neat structure. It’s especially suited for those who want to share stories aloud, whether with children at bedtime or with the inner child who still believes in hidden worlds.
Pages: 181 | ISBN : 0473742454
Taj’s Sabbatical-Book One, Sol System Enforcer Chronicles
Taj’s Sabbatical takes readers on a high-octane journey through the Sol System, blending futuristic sci-fi elements with themes of loyalty, family, and the burdens of duty. At its core, the story follows Taj Varna, an elite Enforcer on a reluctant sabbatical, whose life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes the target of multiple assassination attempts. The plot thickens with a web of intrigue, including advanced cloning, political machinations, and deeply personal stakes as Taj’s loved ones are drawn into the crossfire.
The authors paint a vivid picture of a futuristic society where technology shapes not only transportation and warfare but also the very fabric of identity. The creative detailing of synthetic companions, like Sammy, adds a layer of realism, while the darker aspects, such as unregistered clones and private ARKs, hint at the ethical dilemmas of this advanced society. These elements ground the story, making its speculative fiction feel eerily plausible. At times, the prose is crisp and engaging, pulling you into Taj’s adrenaline-filled world. The narrative occasionally veers into over-explanation. Sammy’s frequent infodumps about cloning or tech systems, while fascinating, can disrupt the pacing. Balancing technical exposition with plot momentum would elevate the storytelling.
The relationships in the book are a delightful counterpoint to its action-heavy narrative. Taj’s bond with Sammy, his synthetic companion, is both humorous and heartfelt. Their banter—like Taj teasing Sammy about his sense of humor—brings levity and warmth. Likewise, the backstory of Taj and Taddy’s romance, orchestrated by the matchmaking Queen Madelaine II, adds emotional depth. That said, I wanted more insight into Taj’s internal conflict as he grapples with protecting his loved ones while facing threats from every corner of the Sol System. The book’s climax left me eager for more, especially with the revelations about Fencer, Taj’s enigmatic father, whose unembodied consciousness still manipulates events. The layers of mystery and power struggles introduced here promise exciting developments for future installments.
Taj’s Sabbatical is a thrilling read that combines speculative science fiction with personal drama. Fans of fast-paced action, intricate world-building, and morally complex characters will find much to enjoy. It’s perfect for readers who love blending futuristic settings with tales of loyalty and rebellion. For those who relish a blend of humor, tech-savvy adventure, and emotional stakes, this book is a solid pick. I’m looking forward to seeing where the Sol System Enforcer Chronicles takes us next.
Pages: 282 | ASIN : B0CPNYYDMT
LITERARY TITAN 