Songs of Heartstrings by fellow blogger Miriam Hurdle is a collection of poems and short stories about nature, relationships, cancer treatment, parenthood and everything that tugs on her heartstrings. Throughout there is reflection and a sense of someone who has a deep faith which has helped her through the trials of life. Particularly moving was a short piece of prose about her cancer treatment. The book is illustrated with the author’s lovely photographs and art works and these add an extra dimension, nicely complementing the accompanying piece.
The book is divided into themes: Songs of Nature, Songs of Dissonance, Songs of Physical Healing, Songs of Marriage, Songs of Parenthood, Songs of reflection, Songs of Challenge and ending with Songs of Inspiration. Each section begins with a quote followed by Miriam’s work. It is predominantly a work of poetry with some prose short stories included. Miriam demonstrated her skill with poetry showcasing numerous different poetic styles such as Villanelle, Shakespearean style sonnet, acrostic and pantoum.
This work is one not to be read quickly but savoured slowly. I have to admit that I am not a reader of poetry and for me being a visual person I found the formatting of some of the poems distracting, creating a disconnect between the words and what I saw on the page. Apart from the formatting (which was only in some poems) this is a heartfelt glimpse into Miriam’s inner being.
Would I recommend this book: yes I would, particularly if poetry is a genre that you enjoy reading or you enjoy reading what pulls at someone’s heartstrings.
Reflections and Nightmares- Irene A Waters (writer and memoirist) 
Thank you so much, Irene. I appreciate your reading of my poetry book even though, as you said you’re not a reader of poetry. I thank you for the kind words and and recommendation. ❤ ❤
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You’re welcome Miriam. I enjoyed reading it.
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I’m glad to see you again!
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Thanks Miriam
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You’re welcome, Irene.
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Reblogged this on The Showers of Blessings and commented:
I want to thank Irene Waters for her review of my book. Please head over to read this post and all of her memoir and other wonderful posts.
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Sounds like a lovely, inspiring book.
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It reflects Miriam well.
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NIce book review, Irene. Miriam’s new book is on my TBR list.
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The TBR list grows daily doesn’t it. Not enough time.
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One, I like to read. Two, do a fair bit of research. Three, I know so many brilliant writers!
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Yes I’m the same but I now realise that my TBR list is longer than the time I have left.
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