Blog Archives
Waiting For Them to Come Back
The writing is raw, unfiltered, and relentless. The way Finley captures Walter’s inner turmoil feels painfully real. I could almost hear the silence in the house, the beatings, the slammed doors, and the endless need for comfort that never came. The style is unpolished in the best way. Sentences are jagged, like thoughts gasped out between sobs. I realized it mirrored Walter’s spiraling mind. The story doesn’t offer relief or lightness, and at times, I found myself desperate to look away. But the honesty kept me glued.
What hit me hardest were the moments of yearning. Walter wanting to laugh at dinner. Walter staring at his sister’s shoes, wishing she would speak. Walter clutching a dirty tissue from a kind police officer like it was gold. Those small details broke me more than the violent scenes. I’ll be honest, the mother’s perspective in the later part of the book stirred complicated feelings. I wanted to hate her fully, yet Finley doesn’t let you take the easy way out. Her regrets arrive too late, and they don’t erase what she’s done, but they force you to face the complexity of cruelty born out of misery. It left me unsettled, and I think that’s exactly the point.
By the end, I sat with a heavy chest, not knowing if I felt sad, angry, or just hollow. This isn’t a book for someone looking for comfort or escapism. It’s a story for readers who want to stare straight into the messy reality of trauma and what it does to families. If you can stomach the pain and you’re willing to walk alongside Walter in all his despair and fragile hope, then this book will stay with you long after you close it.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0F2GCS2LR
Humor is an Incredible Tool
Five Minutes from a Meltdown is a cheeky, offbeat, ridiculously entertaining mashup of punchline poetry and snarky cartoon fun. What was the initial idea behind this collection, and how did that transform as you were writing the book?
I originally started writing comedic poems to provide some joy to my friends and family who subscribed to my Substack, and they were very kind in their responses. Some might say they were too kind, as their positive feedback resulted in me writing hundreds of these poems. Some were sillier than others, some more thoughtful, and many (hopefully) a combination. The poetry collection came together slowly, until I had a manuscript of 100 poems that I thought might be a nice compilation. As I wrestled with which to include and in what order, I started with the funniest, but then began to consider those that I felt had some more meaning or sincerity to them (something I’m not always as comfortable with). I tried to strike a balance as the book came together, to get readers not just to laugh, but think just a teeny bit too.
The cartoons in this book are as entertaining as the writing, elevating this collection from amusing to laugh-out-loud enjoyment. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Mark Hill?
I originally sent over some potential illustrations that I myself drew to my publishers at Yorkshire Publishing. They looked at my sketches and responded with a gist of…”Great ideas! We’ll find someone else who can actually draw” (they said this more kindly and diplomatically). That was the right choice. I’m a writer, not an illustrator. When Mark came onboard, it became clear immediately that he was going to be the right fit. His illustrations were the exact style of playfulness and thoughtfulness I hoped for, and every idea he had for the illustrations was complementary and elevated the humor and meaning of the poems. The process couldn’t have been easier, and I’m so grateful to have had him as a collaborator!
How did you decide on the themes that run throughout your book?
All the themes of the book have come up in my life. From the goofiest and most unrealistic of thoughts about our world to the most serious and real mental illness I’ve dealt with, I have personal experience with every concept in the book. For the book, I tried to navigate each topic humorously, but also treat those that needed more care both intentionally and thoughtfully. My publisher helped me pare down the plethora of poems in the first manuscript to those that had a cohesive or comedic idea, or preferably both. With their help, I am happy to say that we found the 60 poems that were the best for this collection.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Five Minutes from a Meltdown?
I hope to inspire a little reflection on how silly our world truly is, and remind everyone that humor is an incredible tool to help us all connect and relieve stress. If I can get a few chuckles or make any reader think about a topic more deeply, or both, I’ll be thrilled. I hope the message comes across to look around, laugh, and smell the roses (and presumably sneeze; I have terrible hay fever).
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Get ready to laugh out loud with this collection of awkward encounters, groan-worthy puns, clever turns of phrase, and hilarious cartoons. Through David Meyer’s perspective, discover the goofiness in the everyday and the idiosyncrasies of life. This collection of quick-witted, quick reads can be devoured in a single sitting or at a poem-a-day quota (to keep the doctor away).
The book is a perfect gift for a friend who likes to laugh, an enemy who hates to laugh, or a family member who needs a laugh (and to pay you back that money they borrowed).
Put it on your coffee table to be lovingly stained with hors d’oeuvres and good memories, on your bedside table to ward off nightmares, or perhaps in your bathroom, as everyone loves reading a book that other people on the toilet have been touching for years.
However you read, this comedic poetry book is sure to please.
5 Minutes From a Meltdown: A Comedic Poetry Collection
What do you get when a poet says they’re not really a poet, then proves they kind of are? You get Five Minutes from a Meltdown — a cheeky, offbeat, ridiculously entertaining mashup of punchline poetry and snarky cartoon fun. David Meyer isn’t trying to change your life. He’s trying to make you laugh out loud on a Tuesday afternoon. And he succeeds.
Right from the “this is not poetry” intro, Meyer sets the tone. No grand metaphors. No deep soul-searching. Just a parade of bite-sized poems, full of dad-joke energy, wry observations, and perfectly timed nonsense. The humor is sharp but not cruel, smart without being full of itself.
Each piece is like a mini comedy sketch. Some land like a classic stand-up punchline (“I’m the Next Great Supervillain” is a Teflon-coated jab at comic logic). Others are warm and weird, like the running gag of clueless parents and chaotic kids — see “Kids Like the Darndest Things” or the painfully real “My Biggest Fear, Ask My Exes”.
There’s a rhythm to the madness. Meyer plays with line breaks like a DJ dropping beats — awkward pauses, mid-sentence shifts, a lot of “wait, what?” moments that make the final line hit harder. The structure keeps you guessing, and that surprise is half the fun.
Now add in Mark Hill’s cartoons. They’re goofy in the best way — expressive, exaggerated, and full of that Sunday-paper charm. Each one is like a punchline’s wingman, jumping in with a wink and a smirk to make sure you get the joke. It’s not just poetry with pictures — it’s a tag team of absurdity.
This isn’t a book for your English lit professor. It’s for anyone who loves a good laugh, a clever pun, or needs a mental break from the world being on fire. Lighthearted, self-aware, and just the right amount of unhinged — Five Minutes from a Meltdown is like comedy comfort food. You’ll flip through it in a flash. You’ll quote it at brunch. You might even leave it on your coffee table, hoping guests pick it up and laugh.
Pages: 96 | ASIN : B0DK5P76RH
Red Dirt Part I: The Star Bearer
Red Dirt Part I kicks off in the dusty aftermath of humanity’s fall, where synthetic life forms—called the Vestige—have built their own societies on a Mars abandoned by Earth. It’s a story about memory, legacy, and survival. At the heart of it is Miri, a scrappy, half-synthetic woman with more attitude than caution, and the Star Bearer, a quiet, deeply complex Extant—one of the last organic humans with a mysterious past. Together, they’re caught in the crossfire of an old war being reignited by Commander Sutherland, a terrifying war-machine of a man hellbent on reclaiming Mars for what’s left of humanity. It’s sci-fi with soul. And it’s damn good.
First off, the writing is tight but poetic, with lines that just land. One that stuck with me was when Miri, heartbroken after losing her droid companion Lazer, asks, “What happens when we die?” The Star Bearer answers, “We are remembered by those who miss and honor us.” That hit me. It’s not just pretty language—this book digs into what it means to be alive, to be remembered, to matter. There’s something really haunting about a post-human Mars where machines are the ones asking the big questions. It flips the usual sci-fi trope on its head. And Miri is wild. She crashes a grav bike through a ventilation shaft to save the Star Bearer. Like, that’s the kind of unhinged loyalty and heart you only get when a character is real on the page.
The worldbuilding is top tier. Saint Forsaken is this grimy, neon-drenched underground city filled with holograms, synth food, and old Earth relics. It’s like Blade Runner moved to the outback. There’s this moment when the Star Bearer enters a club full of all women—an ex-military hideaway—and everything is both sensual and surreal. You can feel the tension and the hidden history. Also, the action scenes are solid. They don’t drag, and they don’t try too hard. Just the right amount of grit.
Red Dirt Part I: The Star Bearer is less about machines and more about meaning. It’s for readers who like their sci-fi with heart and grit. If you loved The Mandalorian, Mass Effect, or The Expanse, but wanted a bit more raw emotion and fewer lectures on quantum physics, this is your jam. It’s got action, found family, ethical dilemmas, and the kind of quiet, devastating moments that stick with you.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0DVVLXML5
Success Against the Odds
June Raleigh’s Success Against the Odds is a compelling and succinct historical exploration that weaves together narratives of individuals who turned to faith during their most trying times. Through its rich storytelling and biblical insights, the book provides thought-provoking answers to some of life’s most profound questions. Readers are invited to journey through the landscapes of ancient Israel, guided by a tapestry of sources that include Old Testament scriptures and Talmudic narratives. Raleigh’s thoughtful essays on free will and her vivid portrayals of remarkable figures—such as the influential historian and general Flavius Josephus and the fearless Judith, who risked everything to save Judah—create an intellectually and spiritually enriching experience.
The characters within this book are its beating heart, and Raleigh brings them to life with meticulous care. Their distinct personalities and virtues are sketched in a manner that makes them not only relatable but memorable. For instance, Joseph is painted as a complex and persuasive figure, while Judith is celebrated for her extraordinary courage and beauty. Despite their historical and cultural distance, these individuals resonate with contemporary readers, demonstrating the timeless relevance of their stories.
Raleigh incorporates an array of biblical passages, selecting and interpreting them with care. Her explanations simplify profound spiritual messages, making them accessible to a wide audience. The clarity of these interpretations invites readers to engage more deeply with scripture, unveiling its enduring wisdom and relevance. Among the book’s many memorable moments, one piece of advice stood out for its resonance: a reminder to reject greed and embrace contentment, finding joy in love, relationships, and the simple comforts of life. This sentiment encapsulates the book’s overarching message—hope, resilience, and the transformative power of faith.
Success Against the Odds, by June Raleigh, is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration from history and scripture. Raleigh’s insightful reflections and meticulous attention to detail result in a work that is both uplifting and instructive. Whether you are a Christian or simply curious about the lives and legacies of extraordinary individuals, this book offers valuable lessons for all. Its timeless stories and teachings have the potential to impact readers across the globe, offering guidance and encouragement to those who need it most.
Pages: 87 | ASIN : B09DTCGJVK
Echoes of Broken Vows
Logan Glass’s Echoes of Broken Vows plunges readers into the dark and haunting world of the Eidolon, a powerful cult promising immortality through grotesque and morally corrupt rituals, rituals that often claim innocent lives. Sam and Rowan, once devout members, find themselves crushed under the weight of guilt after years of complicity. Desperate to redeem their souls and shatter the organization from within, they embark on a perilous journey to dismantle the cult they once served.
As they navigate this dangerous rebellion, Sam and Rowan grapple with profound emotions and embark on a journey of self-discovery. The novella explores themes of immortality, power abuse, personal guilt, and defiance, all against the chilling backdrop of the Eidolon’s shadowy chambers and unnerving ceremonies. Glass’s vivid descriptions make these scenes feel disturbingly real, evoking an oppressive atmosphere that mirrors the horrors of unchecked power, a timely parallel to real-world systems clinging desperately to control.
Rowan’s character stands out for his intense internal conflict. His guilt and longing for redemption are palpable, making it easy to sympathize with his struggle. In contrast, Sam’s daring spirit and quick thinking bring balance to the story. His boldness complements Rowan’s introspection, and their bond feels authentic and emotionally resonant. While the novella’s pacing is generally tight, some moments, particularly during Rowan’s reflections, can feel a bit slower. However, these sections also serve to deepen the portrayal of his moral turmoil, adding layers to his character.
Echoes of Broken Vows is a dark, intense, and thought-provoking read. Despite its brevity, the story achieves remarkable depth, offering fully realized characters and a chilling exploration of its themes. A gripping novella, it’s sure to linger with readers long after the final page.
Pages: 97 | ASIN : B0DKJX9CZD
King Liam, First of His Name: A Short Story from the Universe of Accidental Intelligence
King Liam, First of His Name by Bryan Chaffin is an intriguing dive into the isolated mind of a man on a perilous mission. King Liam, driven by ambition, sets his sights on an uninhabited planetoid in the distant Oort Cloud. His aim? To claim a fortune without the interference of government regulations. But as he embarks on this interstellar odyssey through the vast emptiness of space, his journey takes unexpected twists, testing his skills, cunning, and experience to their limits. Unfortunately for Liam, the solitude has taken a toll, leaving him as unstable as a bag full of squirrels.
Chaffin’s story, a captivating addition to the Tales from the Quantum Vault series, is a sharp exploration of the perils of isolation, obsession, and the consequences of disregarding safety protocols. Liam, a self-proclaimed ‘King,’ fumbles through his disastrous quest for wealth, unaware of the larger mysteries that await beyond the known boundaries of space. Despite its brevity, the story stands out thanks to Chaffin’s masterful use of voice and tone, which pulls readers deeper into the unraveling sanity of its protagonist. The author’s skillful integration of stellar terminology and realistic physics adds a layer of authenticity that will especially appeal to fans of hard science fiction. Yet, the straightforward narrative ensures that even casual readers can enjoy this tale.
This story captures a timeless human narrative: the pursuit of fortune in uncharted territories, often leading to unexpected ruin. Though its rustic prose and short length may not appeal to everyone, King Liam-First of His Name offers an engaging and thought-provoking read that is well worth including in any anthology. Due to its colorful language, it’s best suited for teens or older audiences.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0D4V57TDJ
Dragon Queen: A Guide
Dragon Queen: A Guide is a motivational book written for women to help them connect with their inner strength, or as the author puts it, their “inner dragon.” The book is structured as a guide to embodying different qualities like dignity, bravery and self-love. It encourages readers to embrace their power, face challenges with courage, and recognize their worth. Through metaphor and encouragement, it aims to uplift and empower women in all areas of their lives, reminding them that they are powerful, deserving and unstoppable.
The writing is informal and is almost like having a heart-to-heart conversation with a friend. It is full of energy, and Christine Downs’s enthusiasm for her message is clear from the start. The dragon metaphor, while imaginative, might feel a bit heavy-handed at times but it adds a fun twist to the usual self-help narrative. I appreciated how she constantly reminds the reader that life’s challenges, no matter how difficult, can be met with dignity. The repeated invocation to “feed your dragon” as a metaphor for self-care is a nice touch.
One of the best parts of the book is its relentless focus on self-love. Downs frames it as the foundation for everything—without self-love, she writes, your “dragon has no flame.” This resonates strongly, and I think it’s a message many women need to hear more often. It’s not about arrogance but about creating a life rooted in confidence and self-worth. The section on being “Aware” is especially poignant, where Downs emphasizes the importance of checking in with yourself, understanding your feelings, and honoring them without judgment. She writes with a lot of empathy, which makes her advice feel personal and real.
The chapter titled “Qualified” stood out for its no-nonsense take on preparedness. Downs points out that being a “Dragon Queen” also means doing hard work and showing up consistently, which adds a grounded layer to the more abstract advice.
Dragon Queen would be a fantastic read for women who are fans of empowering, metaphor-rich narratives that encourage inner growth. It’s especially great for those who need a boost in confidence or a reminder of their worth. While it’s not the most nuanced guide out there, the energy and positivity it radiates are undeniable. If you enjoy self-help with a sprinkle of fantasy flair, this book will speak to your inner queen.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DCW1Z3C8
LITERARY TITAN 