Customer Reviews

Petals of Life: A Survivor's Writings

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Review of Petals of Life By: Candice Martin
ISBN# 1-4241-1494-2
Anyone who is serious about poetry, as a writer or reader should have this book. While the technical student of poetry may feel some of the poems are of a simple rhythmatic style, certainly this thought is quickly forgotten once we realize the subject matter. Candice M. Martin gives her all in this vulnerable collection, which portrays what the skill of writing poetry is really all about. This book displays a rare combination of beauty and power. The beauty that lies in the telling of raw and blunt truths. The power to change lives, to shed light on a seldom viewed, but common experience, the experience of victimhood and of recovery.

This book is for those who are students of poetry and for those concerned about the subject of abuse. This book gives a voice to women who have been denied a hearing by our culture.
Ms. Martin shows uncommon courage in facing that pain, and in allowing the reader to begin to share some understanding of her experience. I recommend this book to all survivors-men and women-and to those who work with survivors of abuse, and to all who share their lives in any way.

At long last, author Candice M. Martin reveals the pain and suffering that lay hidden in suppression for many years. The depiction of such horror and despicable actions are brought forth in the poet's descriptive writings. Carefully hidden away for many years,the pain finds refuge penned on the pages of the author's recounting. The phrases this reader takes away from this work are as follows: Acceptance is a gentle gift as in The Change. The fear and pain are bound with chains inside the soul as described in Black Bird.Pretend he is not there, Darkness Comes Forth, The Living Hell, Thunder, Lightening,Rain. Inner Secret....all hidden pain. Other secrets bore by the abused are;New Yet Old. Child tossed about in foster care. No one heard or saw the abuse because of their fear to admit it.I could go on. Finally, I received hope through these works; Into God's Arms, Windows and Doors, and The Measurement of Strength. Candice...to me you are not Invisible. The read flowed with impact. Thank you Robert Austin Meacham..author Mind's Diary.

I got this after talking with a friend, who happens to be the author. This book is great!

'Petals of Life' was an amazing emotional tribute to the pains of our world. So many people survive what you have been through and never share their story. Thank you for giving an insight to those of us who have no idea. I feel enlightened and yet bewildered by what seems to be some things so tragically widespread. Poetry is something that not everyone can pull off, and you have done an amazing job conveying emotions and telling a story in each piece. After reading 'Petals of Life' I feel like I know you. I am excitedly awaiting your next book. My prayers and best wishes go out to you and your family. Thanks again!

This book contains a great variety of poems - something for everyone. The Author has a gift for exposing life's problems in a personal way. She gives one the feeling that she has "been there." She also touches on the bright side of life with an expression of tenderness in her poetic views of love and life.

A definite buy - a keep sake. I give this a 5 Star Rating.

A Brilliant Collection! A Real Collection!

When you first look at "Petals Of Life : A Survivor's Writings" by : Candice M. Martin you walk into a world unknown. Or at least I did. You come out of that world in total shock. Emotional and vamped, this collection of poetry rips at your emotional scenes and makes your eyes bleed of tears. Powerful and emotional to places so high and unthinkable, this book is a book that I will read over and over and over...

When you think of petals, you think of beauty, innocence,
genteel in nature, something that is precious. Between the
lines of hurt and pain, I find beauty, courage, strength,
hope, and inspiration. It echoes, "I'm still here!" and "I
have a story to tell." Candice is a "bootstrapper" who reaches
deep into your soul to stir, to impact. She shows that pain,
suffering, abuse, and heartaches can't stop a heart that has
fortitude and is welded by love.

Some of the poems that resonates for me are, "Acceptance",
"Only", "Diamonds and Hearts", "Love's Rejoice", "Gentle Rain
No More", "Heart Whispers", "Moments of Happiness", and "The
Measurement of Strength". I'm sure you will find, as I have,
that this book leaves soul-healing imprints. It is a must buy,
must read. Simply stated: Powerful.
~ Pier Tyler, author of "Abstract" and "I Have Arrived"

Petals of Life: A Survivor's Writings by Candice M. Martin, is a beautifully presented collection of poetry in rhythmic form covering many important facets of life. Through her poetry we not only see the effects of abuse, fear, and insecurity, we are also inspired by the love, trust, risk, faith, and hope.

Often there is one special poem that stands out, but many in her collection touched me deep. "Heart Whispers", is definitely full of desire and joy of love seen in her poem, "Love's Rejoice".

It is through her abuse, and pain we understand; through her love, faith and triumphs we find hope. She graciously shares her life's journey providing hope for those who strive to survive, and brings awareness to others. This is an important read which I highly recommend.

This is a must read book of pain and determination and the courage it took in putting all these thoughts into words. Walk through these pages, live one moment in her shoes, she is a true inspiration.
debbie/nana5

This has to be the best book I've read in a very very long time! Ms. Martin's words truely touched my spirit and allowed to to see into an aspect of life I've really never got involved in. These words of her's make me realize that abuse is a lot bigger issue that most care to recognize for fear of having to get involved. After reading "Petals of Life: A Survivor's Writings", I no longer want to sit on the sidelines. I want to do my part in making sure children dont' have to become another victim that was ignored. There is hope in Mrs. Martin's words adn I challenge everyone to read them. Read and reread over and over until you truly understand her pain.