Ramblings of a Mad Southern Woman

by Ashley Fontainne

A collection of eclectic poetry that touches upon numerous aspects of life including love, loss, betrayal, pain and joy. These poems will touch your heart and soul in a variety of ways. Followed by a collection of short stories that delve into childhood fears, revenge, rage and redemption, each one will move you from one emotional state to another.

Genres: Poetry

81 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 12, 2012

About the author

Ashley writes in multiple genres ranging from mystery/thrillers to suspenseful paranormal to dark comedy. The recipient of numerous awards for her gritty, no-holds barred style of writing, her stories will captivate and pull you inside the lives of her characters and intricate plot lines.

Reviews

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inner torment, rage, fear of the unknown, emotional upheavals, childhood nightmares or fears comprise the various themes of this diversified collection of vividly and graphically depicted poems and short stories by author Ashley Fontainne. Throughout the collection of poems you hear different voices of this author as she relates incident in her life, her inner most thoughts and feelings as we enter her world, get to really understand what so many would hesitate to write as she takes the reader on a journey that will make you laugh, cry, angry and entranced with her amazing thoughts and words. As you open the book and read the dedication and forward you get just a glimpse of the true Ashley but not until you begin your journey or tip into her poetry and experience the emotions, fears, rage, revenge and her constant faith in her God, her family and herself will you truly understand The Ramblings of a Mad Southern Woman.

Beginning with the first poem “A Question” which sets the stage for Morality Be Damned where she imparts her victory, her creativity and joy at destroying her possessions, as the smoke fills the room and the match is lit and the morality of more than just her possessions goes up in flames. The smile as she does her work and feels no anger or remorse says it all. Quite compelling. “Words” is really quite interesting almost like a pyramid poem starting off with a positive description of the ocean breeze, describing the beauty of someone, lovely words, feelings of love and hearts that intertwine but then there is a radical change in her emotions. The person no longer feels anything but deceit, rage and hate for this person as she emits her own form of poisonous words destroying what was once beautiful. A toxic relationship that turns even more toxic. Following by “Pulsating Wound,” which expands on her true feelings or an extension of the poem Words. Rage as she describes her anger, fears and hoping something will pull her through but all she sees is RED.

Each poem centers on a different emotional event in the life of the person whose voice you hear as “Snickering,” describes the backstabbing, the harsh words not supposed to be heard behind your back, with an end result that is filled with bruises, battering and yet faith in him.

The first short story really strikes a chord with me as we relates what happens when she decides to enter the sea, swim, overcome a fear that many have of the ocean. Some feel they will be dragged down with the current if they go in too far, too fast and too deep. The thoughts that invade her head each time the ocean calls her as she relates in the introduction, and immerses herself within the confines of the warmth of the ocean almost forgetting her fears until something happens that creates pain and fear within her body. What happens is not uncommon and her reaction and ability to overcome amazing. The Climb is a great poem that tells a story about how triumph, success, defeat, fear and finding your purpose and begging or asking for help. “Another Day” almost seems like she is describing her feelings as she goes through the motions at work trying to type, write what’s needed or even express her thoughts on paper. “White Knight,” is another opposite poem, which starts out describing her feelings about someone in a beautiful way and then midstream changes to hate and anger.

There are so many stories in this collection that I have decided to spotlight just four in my review. Stained Concrete, Death By Shadow, How 9/11 Saved My Dad and A Tale of Two Bulbs. Revenge comes when you least expect it and often justice takes what some think a blind eye when money is involved and power. Stained Concrete is the story of Marie and her loyalty to her friend Cara. Cara is brutally beaten and the suspect needs to pay and serve his full sentence. Right out of Edgar Allan Poe this story is eerie, frightening and has all the earmarks of a Poe ending. Ashley Fontaine creates a story so graphically depicted, told by Marie in her own voice and ending in the true classic way of a create horror story. Revenge and Justice: Marie’s way. Read it to find out just how Marie gets justice for Cara but the courts do not. “Death by Shadow,” is next in her collection of short stories. Fear stalked the night of a nine-year-old child that thought she witnessed someone in her room. Describing what she saw to her mother and trying to explain her fears did not get her too far. Screaming and yelling for her mother brought her to her side but all the soothing in the world did not calm this child. Her mother thought it was just a nightmare but what was it in reality? What shadow did she see hovering over her? Afraid to stay alone in her room her mother allowed her to keep her cat there for the night. Why did the cat stand guard over her? What did her see? Next, How did 9/11 Save My Dad, which is quite uplifting and unique? The story offers hope, joy and redemption not only to her but to her father too. As the author describes her father’s conflicts and feelings towards God and how this single event changed his perspective and life, we learn more about the author’s deep devotion to her faith in the Lord. Discussions with him about salvation did not meet a positive response for many years. But, her stepmom felt that things just might change and with her help she was able to finally communicate her thoughts and he finally accepted God. The smoke, ash, the carnage and the senseless murders of so many still flood the hearts and memories of so many. As she meets with her father what happens will make you smile and even bring tears to your eyes. What we witnessed that day will never disappear from our minds nor will anyone ever allow the terrorists to blindside us again. America needs to stay alert now and forever let there be no more ashes.

Finally A Tale of Two Bulbs rounds out the four stories that I am spotlighting. Patience is a virtue that many do not have but need to cultivate. In this simple yet thought provoking story of two maidens you might find the answers to many other questions. Two young maidens find magnificent bulbs with a sweet aroma on a grassy hilltop. One decides to take care of her bulbs and leave them in the soil, water them and care for them daily. Patience and nurturing her babies and making sure they would be cared for. The second wanted immediate gratification and decided she could improve on Mother Nature and tore the bulbs from the soil and planted them in a cold and hard ceramic pot. The end result is truly remarkable. Both maidens had bulbs that grew but the differences you have to read for yourself. Instant gratification does not always yield the results you want. Find out why after reading this story. Who is Michael is the next story and Purple Mountains Majesty round out all of the outstanding stories in this collection. Ramblings of A Mad Southern Woman is more than just ramblings it is pure writing and story telling at the highest level. Let’s give this book: FIVE RAMBLING ROSES

Fran Lewis: reviewer

[Joanna Doster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Ramblings of a Mad Southern Woman (A Collection of Short Stories and Poetry on Life, Love, Loss and Longing)

Author: Ashley Fontainne

Review By Joanna Lee Doster

A PROFOUND READING EXPERIENCE.

Mad? No way! Ashley Fontainne, a gifted writer of popular mystery and suspense thrillers, has written a book of poetry and short stories. To be able to master the different skillsets it takes to write in different genres speaks volumes for this author's talent. If we don't watch out, Ms. Fontainne will be repainting the Sistine Chapel next.

The reader can easily identify with Ms. Fontainne's poetry. It is a moving and profound experience, with a kaleidoscope of emotions; sometimes exploding rage, sometimes haunting and plaintive, often times lyrical, spiritually uplifting, and joyful. Ms. Fontainne takes the reader into a private world of her journeys and those of others she has known. The poems are like polished gems that you have to experience for yourself. I will just name a few of my favorites: "Sunrise,Sunset", "Words" and "That Is Who I Am".

Kudos to Ms. Fontainne for also exhibiting a dexterity in writing short stories. Her inner voice comes through loud and clear as if she is a medium for the people she writes about and their past wounds, emotional scars, betrayals, victories, journeys, vengeance, love and salvation. Ms. Fontainne's acute eye for detail serves her well as she meticulously sets the stage for each of her short stories, and reels you in like a magnet so you will be rooted to your seat until you have read them all. Whether it's the little girl's nightmare, or a young girls tortured journey, or a horrific tale of abuse, her gripping stories are riveting to the end.

[Uvi Poznansky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an eclectic mix of poetry and prose. It brings up a bold presence of the woman standing in front of you. There is nothing meek about Ashley Fontainne's voice. Aimed straight at the reader, it is strong, full of passion, pain, despair and hope. She lets these emotion out with full force, wielding danger over herself and those closest to her, willing to have it all come ablaze. "Morality be damned, I lit the match," she laughs, but you can hear the undeniable bitterness. "Up in a cloud of smoke it goes, as I smile at the work I do."

Her artistry with words is amplified by the attention she gives to the way in which her words as a chunks of dark text, mark a cross on the whiteness of the paper, in a spiritual poem: "His innocent body tortured to the climactic end." Despite the shape of the cross, the poem is called 'A Perfect Circle' which I find so suggestive.

At times she starts with a soft touch, and the whisper of her words is so gentle, illusive even, that you just know that in a minute all will change, and the full, immense range of her emotions will soon erupt; which of course, it does, not diminishing the beginning but rather, using it as a stark contrast. Her pain comes with simple images. "I pry open old memories... To see where the ending began"

In another poem, That is who I am, the line repeats at the end of each verse as if to punctuate the assertive nature of this woman. "My terms; my choice; my time. That is who I am." You are more than a reader, and Fontainne is more than a poetess in this conversation. She is a force, and you must face her and meet her on her terms.

The book is short, I read in in one breath, which left me wanting more! What you hear is not rambling, but a full-throated roar.

[Lindsay Kendal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was asked to review this book, honestly, before it went to publication. I can tell you now I have never read a poetry book before in my life. I wrote a small one when I was a child for a school project, but that was it. I didn’t know what to expect when I first started reading, but when I was only a few pages in I’d fell in love with it.

Each poem is beautifully written and heartfelt. It is obvious they were inspired by life events. The raw emotion in each one captures not only your imagination, but your heart too.

We then have a great selection of short stories. Perfectly written to once again capture you.

All in all while reading this book I experienced many different emotions. I smiled at times but then, also felt rather sad at others. Occasionally the writing would pull me in so much that while I was reading I could feel the hairs on my neck stand on end.

This book lives up to Ashley previous high standards of writing. This is a must read for people of all walks of life. Simply put, there is something in this book which everyone will be able to relate too.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Human Drama Expressed in Prose and Poetry

This is a small book consisting of the author’s collection of poetry and short stories. In the beginning of the book are short, explicit explanations by Ashley for each of her writings, which for readers like myself who doesn’t understand poetry and, therefore, doesn’t usually read it, they allowed me into the depths of her presentations. Ashley is an excellent writer, but in this collection she demonstrates her ability to visualize for us in words emotions and actions, which are innate to human nature. She states that she either experienced or other people experienced what she has expressed. For readers of this genre, I recommend this book.

[BestChickLit.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

These are no mad ramblings but instead a powerful collection of emotive writings. The reading experience is a bit like riding a rollercoaster: you dip down into rage and hate then soar high on joy and love – almost as if Fontainne has penned her soul onto paper.

The assortment of short stories is impressive, ranging from the ultimate revenge tale to a touching discovery of faith. Purple Mountains Majesty and Who Is Michael are standout pieces in the book, sure to tug at the hearts of mothers and wives alike, and both have meaning poured into every single word. Ramblings of a Mad Southern Woman should be a permanent fixture on any bookshelf, as it sure to be a book that’s picked up again and again.

Review by Charlotte Foreman on behalf of BestChickLit.com

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ramblings of a mad southern woman. Ashley Fontaine
The poetry is dark and sometimes spiritual. The stories deal with revenge and suffering. You may think this is a depressing book but it isn’t. Yes the stories are dark but are compelling. My favorite poem is That is just the way I am. I swear she was writing about my cat. My favorite story was The Inferno.
I thoroughly enjoyed the collection of poems and shorts by a fantastic author. Fontaine writes gritty suspense but demonstrates her spirituality and strong faith in her higher power. I recommend this book for anyone who loves a wide variety of genres in between two covers. Another 5 star rating.

[Gary Horton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful collection of poems and short stories. Ramblings of a Mad Southern Woman will touch you deeply. Expect to have your spirit lifted in some stories, such as Who is Michael?, a celebration of a salt of the earth working man, strong and kind and loving. But, also prepare yourself for glimpses into the dark corners of the human heart. It takes a highly skilled hand to make poetry from the ruins of addiction, but Ms. Fontainne does exactly that and much more.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book from the deep and intriguing poems to the interesting short stories. I am glad I got the chance to experience the read.

[Maurean · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful collection; Real. Raw. Intense. Emotional.

[M.A Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely easy read full of fierce emotional poems and engaging short stories. Ashley continues to show just what a wonderful writer she is with her ability to pull her reader into the mind of the characters she is sharing with them. Love, Anger, Hope, Despair. You get a taste of everything. And don't forget revenge. Each poem or story connects your mind, heart and soul with the character telling you the passage. A very enjoyable read and fairly quickly. Great for before bed relaxation or during a nice hot bath.

[Kelly · Rating 1 out of 5]

I appreciate the author's effort and applaud her "putting it all out there", but I did not like this one. At all. But the cover is stunning!