Rachel M. Patterson's Blog, page 2

A thrilling book touching on modern times, but in need of more polish

This novella delves into some heavy topics right off the bat. Political issues, civil unrest, and racial inequality are all important themes in this story. The author takes us to a police interview room the morning after violent crimes are committed, where a suspect is grilled by police about his involvement. What I found interesting about the story is the unreliable narrator. Can we trust the main character's memories of the previous night?

The author has a background in law, which is evident in his writing. His superior knowledge of legal matters enhances the story and gives it an authentic feel. I felt as if I were right inside the interview room with the police officer and the main character, Shawn Thomas. Fast-paced and full of twists and turns, the excitement of the story doesn't disappoint.

My only problems with the novella were the grammatical and spelling errors that need correcting, and I also wanted more. I felt the novella could have been developed deeper into a full novel. The characters and plot are fascinating and I want to delve further into the mind of the main character. I also found reading from the narrator's point of view was a bit confusing. Trying to discern reality from fantasy was difficult, though it's obvious that is what the author intended. I felt the idea was great, but the execution needed a little more work.

I commend the author for writing a story reflecting the anguish and frustration of modern times. This is a story that feels like it was ripped from the headlines of the latest news story. Protests and police brutality are issues on everyone's minds these days. Lazarus wants you to think about what is happening in the world. The Interview: Country on Fire will force you to contemplate society's malignancies, while also taking you on a wild ride.

I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.

Other Poems of Longing By Juan-Paolo Perre

Perre's latest collection of poetry is beautiful and succinct. Perhaps the only downfall of the collection is the repetitive theme of each poem. I felt as though the author put a lot of work into each poem, taking a long hard look at his own thoughts and opinions. My favorite poem was "Calm". The opening line is powerful and grabs the reader's attention immediately: "At dusk today, I felt vanquished." I felt Perre's pain and frustration bleeding from his words. The beauty of the sunset sets the stage for the author's despair.

The collection also uses themes of nature and travel. Many of the poems are inspired by different countries in Europe, providing an adventurous atmosphere. The poem "La Canicule" includes a subtext of Rome in August. Perre writes, "At plain day there is this sun But today, too, a haze." I feel the author's deep connection with nature and the world around him. His nomadic lifestyle shines through his words.

One of my least favorite poems is "Until Seventy Times Seven." The poem focuses on "Googling" things on the internet. While it's clear the poem is about lost love or someone the author is missing desperately, I felt the modern technology used in the poem was off-putting. I would have rather read "I searched", instead of using the brand name of the search engine.

"Other Poems of Longing" offers a window into the extraordinary life of the author. I enjoyed reading and picturing the various landscapes that inspired this collection. Perre is a talented poet, no doubt. His ability to create clear images of his atmosphere and use his feelings to paint a sorrowful picture left me with an ache in my heart. I look forward to reading more of Juan-Paolo Perre's writing in the future, and I recommend this collection to modern poetry lovers.

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.

You can purchase this book here.

I am now a Reedsy Discovery Reviewer!

Hello readers! I have been accepted as a verified independent book reviewer for Reedsy Discovery! I am so excited for this opportunity. I love reading and I can't wait to help indie authors get their work out there. If you are on Reedsy for writing or reading, check out my profile:

https://reedsy.com/discovery/user/rachel-m-patterson

You can send me a direct request for me to review your book! I also accept tips via Discovery ($1-$5 as a thank you).

The Devil All The Time - Book Review (Spoiler-free)

Published July 12th 2011 by Doubleday

The novel by Donald Ray Pollock first caught my eye when I saw the trailer for the Netflix adaptation. Like most book enthusiasts, I wanted to read the novel before seeing the movie. After spending two days consuming this book, I can honestly say this is one of the best books I've read in a long time.

This heartbreaking story follows two generations in rural Ohio and West Virginia. Part crime thriller, part modern gothic, this novel gave me the creeps (in a good way). Pollock sets up an eerie atmosphere filled with twisted characters.

If you love Gillian Flynn, then you will love this book. I loved how the author integrated the dysfunction of small town life with the violence of 1960's America. From Willard Russell's religious torment to Carl and Sandy Henderson's serial killings, The Devil All The Time will keep you on your toes.

I highly recommend this book. I also recommend reading it before you watch the Netflix adaptation. The movie was good and Tom Holland's acting was stellar, but the novel gives your more than the movie has to time to offer.

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars

Mother's Day 2020

In honor of Mother's Day, please enjoy the poem I wrote inspired by my son:

“Eternal Bond”

Ethereal creature, I hold in my arms With a sweet smile shining brighter than the moon With the face of an angel and twice the charm My heart sings a song with a devotional tune.

You've arrival set off a blaring alarm I realized I was trapped in a tiny cocoon. Broken and bruised, accepting the harm I finally saw the evil like a bright red balloon.

You saved me in so many ways My nights are brighter, and so are my days.

I love you infinity times three My baby, you'll always be.

**This poem is featured in my book "Stargazer", which you can purchase on Amazon or through my shop**

Stargazer featured on Reedsy.com

Hello all!

I'm proud to announce that my poetry book is now being featured on Reedsy! You can check it out here: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/stargazer-rachel-m-patterson

Support me by giving it an upvote! Books with the most upvotes will be featured in a special newsletter.

Thank you all!!!

Black Thumb

In between working from home, writing, and trying not to lose my mind, I am also attempting to keep these flowers alive! Anyone who knows me is aware of my "black thumb", as I like to call it. I am 33 years old and have yet to keep a potted plant/flower alive for than a week.

It has been 2 weeks now! Huzzah! Tips welcome

Support my Kickstarter Project

Hi guys! I am hard at work finishing my new project "Oh My Ghoul", a fiction book for middle grade readers. I need your help! Costs of publication are high for a self-published author. With your pledge I will be able to hire an independent illustrator for a top notch cover, an editor, AND cover the printing costs. Reading is an important part of every child's life, so please help fund my project so I can share it with kids everywhere!

Thank you!