#BookReview: Variety is the Spice of Life by Sally Cronin @sgc58 #ShortStories #Poetry

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Hi everyone. Today I have a book review for you by an author and blogger many of us know and love, Sally Cronin. Sally has a new book out, which I’ve had sitting on my ereader for a while, waiting for me to work my way up my TBR pile, lols. Here’s my review >>>

About the Book:

Variety is the Spice of Life is a collection of poetry and short stories about relationships with others, including pets and animals inhabiting the world around us. The connection with others brings love and friendship, excitement and sometimes surprises, danger, mystery and sometimes the unexpected.

The poetry explores human nature, the fears, desires, expectations and achievements. Nature offers a wonderful opportunity to observe animals both domesticated and wild. Even in a back garden you can observe a wide variety of creatures and the daily challenges to survive a harsh environment.

The short stories introduces you to a healer whose gift comes with danger, a neighbour determined to protect a friend, a woman on the run, an old couple whose love has endured, an elderly retired teacher who faces a life changing accident, a secret that has been carried for over 70 years and a village who must unite as they face devastating news.

 

My Review:

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

An eclectic collection of fun flash fiction and moving poetry

First of all, I need to say how much I adore the cover for this book. The author’s husband designed it, and what a fantastic job! It is appealing to the eye and is perfect for the contents of this lovely little volume of short stories and poetry.

Secondly, the author has dedicated this publication not only to her readers but also to the online and blogging community which supports her. This from a writer who uses her online presence to support everyone around her all the time. This generosity of spirit and ability to connect with people and life shines through in Sally Cronin’s writing. I’ve read other works by this author, so I expected to enjoy this read just as much, and Variety is the Spice of Life doesn’t disappoint. Here are some poems I loved … 

‘just three key words | can make someone’s day | I love you | I need you | I see you | I got you | just one word | can break someone’s heart | goodbye’ From Key Words.

And … 

‘In the spring of my life I was hopeful and eager. In the summer I blossomed and thrived. The autumn still offers bright days, but they are tinged with chill winds created by the evil humans can do.’ From Seasons. 

Some of my favourites from the short story section are … 

‘… dogs, patrolling the gardens and going about their business, but they had respect for this marmalade cat who had an impressive left hook with claws at the business end.’ From The Neighbourhood Watch, which has a brilliant twist!

And … 

‘If Edith was to resume as much of her normal life as possible, she needed to feel this bond rather than a dependency.’ From The Secret, which is a story about judgemental times and a loving child. I felt this was so honest and well written and shows some of the author’s heart, which I love to discover when reading any book. Variety is the Spice of Life gets five stars from me. 

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NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.

5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.

For anyone interested, here are the Amazon links …

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B08B8BDLW1/

US https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08B8BDLW1/

I’d love to hear what you think of this review. Thanks for stopping by 🙂 

 

53 Comments on “#BookReview: Variety is the Spice of Life by Sally Cronin @sgc58 #ShortStories #Poetry”

  2. A wonderful review for a wonderful book! A big congratulations to Sally. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Harmony. I completely agree with you and add my recommendation!

  3. What fun to read your review, Harmony. You picked out some beautiful lines and passages to share. I always enjoy Sally’s poems and stories. Congrats to Sally on the new review!

  4. A wonderful review Harmony! I’ve read Sally’s book twice and loved it more the second time! She is so imaginative and creative! I keep finding new and surprising messages! Thanks for sharing Sally’s lovely book. Hugs, C

    • Couldn’t agree more! Apologies you’ve been in spam all this time. I completely forgot to check this last few days. It’s lovely to see you, Cheryl. Hugs 🤗💕🙂

  5. A gorgeous review for a beautiful book Harmony. Sally knows how to get to the heart of matters. Congrats Sal!!! <3 xxx

  8. I love this review of Sally’s latest book, Harmony. I loved it, too, and we had some of the same favourites. You pick out all Sally’s wonderful strengths – not just as a writer but as a selfless promoter of others. Many thanks. xx (I couldn’t leave a ‘like’ for some reason.)

    • You’re the second person unable to leave a like. I’m shaking my head and asking ‘what next, WordPress?’ Argh! 😖 I’m delighted we share some of the favourites. Thanks so much for your lovely words, Trish 💕🙂

  11. Great review, Harmony. I enjoyed Sally’s latest book as well. The cover is perfect!

  14. Wonderful review, Harmony. Thank you for sharing. I enjoyed Variety is the Spice of Life very much. Sally brings the ordinary into the extraordinary through her chosen words. And her ‘three key words’ – continue to linger in my heart. Congratulations, Sally, for this beautiful endorsement from another incredible poet. ❤️

    • Thank you Gwen and for your lovely review so pleased that the collection made an impression, always wonderful to hear that..enjoy your weekend ♥♥

  18. Thank you so much Harmony for your amazing review and a wonderful way to start my day. I love the examples you selected and I did have fun with that marmalade cat. I do appreciate you taking the time to read and review. ♥♥

  19. As always Harmony this was a great and very thorough review. You obviously have great insight into the Author and her subject matter.You are most definitely Author Friendly and anyone would b happy with your reviews. Massive Hugs