Don't think I was the intended audience of this book.

There were a few poems in this book that were outstanding and I cherished reading and exploring these- some examples include the stunning To Ask by Julie Murphy and Dale Biron's Laughter. Overall there were perhaps 7 poems i highlighted to read again and will stay with me..

This book is really well set up for those who want to explore their own happiness, gratefulness and who wish to attempt reflective creative writing. There were prompts at thoughtful moments throughout the collection but I did not find them inspiring for the sort of person I am - I can totally see why someone who has more faith might enjoy them though.

The collection also includes reading group questions and information on all of the poets which is an excellent touch.

Overall I think it was well curated and thematically sensitive- just not for me.

A brilliant and intricate story, very creative and with mature elements such as domestic violence and self-improvement.

The lack of effective characterisation really let this book down for me - I had no reason to like or root for any of the characters. In fact, the narration was thin and I found the main character a little unlikeable.

Having said that, the plot and the twists in this tale along with the alternate world element are very imaginative. The book pushes you to reflect on your faith and your morals.

Thanks NetGalley for giving me a read of this book in exchange for a fair review.

Offensive to Magdalene Survivors

Firstly - if there truly is a Maria then I am sorry for your suffering and I hope you find peace. However I must advise that you find another writer to do your memoirs some justice.

Not only is this littered with basic grammar and punctuation errors- sometimes up to 6 per page with hundreds in the book, but it is full of factual inaccuracies and embellishments.

One simple example includes: a pregnancy test glimpsed in the bin in 1955 when they weren't even available until the 1970s.

I cannot rate this book in honest conscience as either a memoir or a work of fiction which leaves me at a bit of a loss - what actually is this?

Do not recommend.

An absolutely sensational, raw collection of stories that presents humanity as its true unfiltered self: sometimes pure and beautiful but other times dark, dangerous and self-destructive.

Exploring poignant and hard-hitting themes such as sexual assault, family relationships, friendships, mental health, stigma and intimacy, this collection is uncomfortable in its frankness and warming in its resolution.

The personas presented by the writer leap off the page, old and young alike and she has pure talent for creating a believable tarnished coming-of-age mindset.

An absolute must read.

Read if you like: The Thing Around Your Neck by Adichie.

Thanks to NetGalley for this masterpiece in exchange for the easiest five star ARC review I've ever left.

Darker than expected

This book was dark and emotional- I wasn't ready for it!

It was also sexy and tense. I loved the characters. Will definitely read the next one in the series!

Unexpected Gem

Knew to expect a faux-fiance trope but didn't expect to like the characters so much, or for the steam to be so