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Bygone: Musings and Poems from a Regency Hearthside
Modern, Regency-Esque Love Poems from a Regency Novelist Enjoy this hardback collection of whimsical thoughts and poems, perfect for fans of Jane Austen.
162 pages, Hardcover
Published August 15, 2023
4 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Linder
11 books822 followersHANNAH LINDER resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels filled with passion, secrets, and danger. She is a four-time Selah Award winner, a 2023 Carol Award semi-finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).
Also, Hannah is an international and multi-award-winning graphic designer who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a self-portrait photographer of historical fashion.
When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments—piano, guitar, ukulele, and banjolele—songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. To follow her journey, visit hannahlinderbooks.com.
Also, Hannah is an international and multi-award-winning graphic designer who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a self-portrait photographer of historical fashion.
When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments—piano, guitar, ukulele, and banjolele—songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. To follow her journey, visit hannahlinderbooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 15, 2023
4 stars. What a lovely collection of poetry! As someone who reads a great deal of 1800s poetry, I was very impressed by how old-fashioned and lovely these poems were. If I didn’t know better I’d have sworn they were written in 1860. The sections were quite well done, and I enjoyed how several of the poems told little stories. There were serious and sad poems, sweet and whimsical poems, poems about life and love and dreams and grief, and there were little sayings tucked throughout. I think my favourite poem was “Recollectin’,” but I also loved “I Am Alive” and “Home”... and several others. <3 Also, the illustrations and cover are absolutely gorgeous!!
Yet even in our labors,
And every wearied breath,
There is something wholesome,
A treasure to be kept.
The satisfying knowledge
That frail and human hands,
Have fashioned something lasting,
A legacy to stand.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Yet even in our labors,
And every wearied breath,
There is something wholesome,
A treasure to be kept.
The satisfying knowledge
That frail and human hands,
Have fashioned something lasting,
A legacy to stand.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
August 10, 2023
This was a beautiful book of poetry! There were many of these poems that I found relatable or worth thinking over. They were beautifully written and made me feel so many emotions.
These poems had a classical, regency-esque feel to them which I loved. I truly felt like I was transported back in time. And while these poems were beautifully quaint, they were also relatable to girls today who have an old soul and a love for old-fashioned things.
I l love how each of these poems told a story. Some were happy, some thoughtful, and some were really sad. This little book held various emotions written in a beautiful, lyrical way.
In conclusion, I really enjoyed reading these poems! Hannah Linder definitely has a way with words.
If you love lyrical writing and whimsical, thoughtful poetry as well as all things regency, I think you’ll enjoy Bygone! If you want to feel like you’re the main character from a regency novel, reading these poems will make you feel as if you are.💗
A few lines from my favorite poem in this collection, “My Soul, This Is Today”
“My soul, so if there’re tears,
And if your burden’s hard,
My soul, take all your cares,
To One Whose hands are scarred.”
*Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
These poems had a classical, regency-esque feel to them which I loved. I truly felt like I was transported back in time. And while these poems were beautifully quaint, they were also relatable to girls today who have an old soul and a love for old-fashioned things.
I l love how each of these poems told a story. Some were happy, some thoughtful, and some were really sad. This little book held various emotions written in a beautiful, lyrical way.
In conclusion, I really enjoyed reading these poems! Hannah Linder definitely has a way with words.
If you love lyrical writing and whimsical, thoughtful poetry as well as all things regency, I think you’ll enjoy Bygone! If you want to feel like you’re the main character from a regency novel, reading these poems will make you feel as if you are.💗
A few lines from my favorite poem in this collection, “My Soul, This Is Today”
“My soul, so if there’re tears,
And if your burden’s hard,
My soul, take all your cares,
To One Whose hands are scarred.”
*Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 13, 2023
Besides the little bit of Robert Frost and Emily Dickinson that I read in middle and high school, I've never read much poetry, but I'm super glad I read this collection!!
It was passionate, touching, and sounded like it came from a time long gone. To be honest, I've never quite been able to wrap my head around poetry, but all the poems and musings in this book were easy to understand and touched me in ways I wasn't expecting.
Being the hopeless romantic that I am, I loved the section on love the most. I think out of all the many poems in this collection, Darling, I Know, was my favorite. It was touching in a relatable way that I didn't expect, and I love it when that happens!
If you like poetry that has an old-fashioned feel to it, then Bygone is something you should read!
Thank you, Hannah, for the ARC!
It was passionate, touching, and sounded like it came from a time long gone. To be honest, I've never quite been able to wrap my head around poetry, but all the poems and musings in this book were easy to understand and touched me in ways I wasn't expecting.
Being the hopeless romantic that I am, I loved the section on love the most. I think out of all the many poems in this collection, Darling, I Know, was my favorite. It was touching in a relatable way that I didn't expect, and I love it when that happens!
If you like poetry that has an old-fashioned feel to it, then Bygone is something you should read!
Thank you, Hannah, for the ARC!
August 15, 2023
Bygone is a beautiful collection. I loved each poem and that I could understand it and relate to it. It took me to another time and place. It's a collection that should never be placed on a shelf but be placed on a table in ones living room or reading area inviting others to sit, relax and be swept away by its beauty and rest. It's a collection that should be ready to read over and over again.
*I'm so thankful for my complimentary copy; my opinion is my own, I was not required to give it.
*I'm so thankful for my complimentary copy; my opinion is my own, I was not required to give it.
August 31, 2023
This book would best be enjoyed on a rainy day curled up in a blanket by an open fire with a warm cup of tea in hand💛🫖🌧️
I found in Bygone exactly what I hope to find in every book of poetry I read- emotion, thought, lyrical language and creative expression. This is such a lovely little collection that has a classic regency-esque feel, with modern twists sprinkled here and there.
The layout of the book is beautiful, with four major sections on love, life, nature and death which I always appreciate for reference after reading!
I would definitely recommend this book for lovers of poetry- it will give you all the introspective, inspiring, emotional and sentimental vibes you are looking for!
Thank you Hannah for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I found in Bygone exactly what I hope to find in every book of poetry I read- emotion, thought, lyrical language and creative expression. This is such a lovely little collection that has a classic regency-esque feel, with modern twists sprinkled here and there.
The layout of the book is beautiful, with four major sections on love, life, nature and death which I always appreciate for reference after reading!
I would definitely recommend this book for lovers of poetry- it will give you all the introspective, inspiring, emotional and sentimental vibes you are looking for!
Thank you Hannah for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
May 28, 2025
I wasn’t a fan of this type of poetry. It wasn’t filled with the depth I hoped to find; instead, it felt like it was merely composed of rhyming words that flowed well together. I enjoy poetry that evokes emotion and focuses more on thought than rhythm. There were a few poems scattered throughout that I did find somewhat pleasing, but for the most part, I was left feeling unsatisfied.
I do feel like the author successfully achieved what she intended with this book. It felt like it was straight from the Regency era, so if that’s something you typically enjoy, I highly recommend reading this book of poetry!
I do feel like the author successfully achieved what she intended with this book. It felt like it was straight from the Regency era, so if that’s something you typically enjoy, I highly recommend reading this book of poetry!
August 8, 2023
Why do we only think of poetry as written by someone at least a hundred years ago? Or maybe that's just me?
I just wanted to bask in this poetry and soak it all up. Let it permeate. It brought out all the emotions: love, sadness, despair, joy, hope, contentment. I'm just not sure what more you could ask from a book. And I will have this on my physical shelves-it'll be great for our homeschool poetry reading each day!
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
I just wanted to bask in this poetry and soak it all up. Let it permeate. It brought out all the emotions: love, sadness, despair, joy, hope, contentment. I'm just not sure what more you could ask from a book. And I will have this on my physical shelves-it'll be great for our homeschool poetry reading each day!
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
August 15, 2023
"Today has something that tomorrow will never have"-Today by Hannah Linder
I am familiar with the author's novels and have loved the ones I have read, so when I heard about Bygone, I knew I just had to read it. And not only is she a talented author, but this writer is also a beautiful Poet. She crafts each of her thoughts and musings in such a way that pull you in. I could not only relate to them, but also understand them, feel the emotion in every one. There were so many that I loved including Someone, Sincerest, I Am June Today, Sadness, Today, and so many, many more.
The collection is divided into four parts: Love, Life, Nature, and Death. Each section has a myriad of beautiful poems, some happy, some sad, some bittersweet. But in each of them there is a wonder yet to be discovered by the reader.
I had received a complimentary copy of the book and this is my honest review.
I am familiar with the author's novels and have loved the ones I have read, so when I heard about Bygone, I knew I just had to read it. And not only is she a talented author, but this writer is also a beautiful Poet. She crafts each of her thoughts and musings in such a way that pull you in. I could not only relate to them, but also understand them, feel the emotion in every one. There were so many that I loved including Someone, Sincerest, I Am June Today, Sadness, Today, and so many, many more.
The collection is divided into four parts: Love, Life, Nature, and Death. Each section has a myriad of beautiful poems, some happy, some sad, some bittersweet. But in each of them there is a wonder yet to be discovered by the reader.
I had received a complimentary copy of the book and this is my honest review.
August 15, 2023
This is my first time enjoying a book of poems, and this one did not disappoint! The dreamy and heartwarming words take you to another world. I also personally appreciated the Christian perspective in many of the different selections. This would be a wonderful gift to those who appreciate period dramas and regency romance!
Thank you to the author for my complimentary copy.
Thank you to the author for my complimentary copy.
July 28, 2023
What a breath of fresh air!
I love poetry and haven't read any for a while.
"Bygone" is a fantastic book! This book is laid out into four sections: love, life, nature, and death. All wonderfully written and a joy to read.
This book of poems made me think of my husband and family, made me feel like a kid again, made me see the beauty in the simple things, and made me realize that I need to savour the time I have on this earth.
It is a beautifully written book that I will read over and over.
Applause to Hannah Linder for penning down such a wonderful collection of stories.
I love poetry and haven't read any for a while.
"Bygone" is a fantastic book! This book is laid out into four sections: love, life, nature, and death. All wonderfully written and a joy to read.
This book of poems made me think of my husband and family, made me feel like a kid again, made me see the beauty in the simple things, and made me realize that I need to savour the time I have on this earth.
It is a beautifully written book that I will read over and over.
Applause to Hannah Linder for penning down such a wonderful collection of stories.
July 29, 2023
I'm absolutely honored to be on the launch team for Bygone! This is a beautiful volume of elegant Regency poetry, full of wisdom, hope, simplicity, and faith. This is the kind of poetry you can imagine being written by Jane Austen heroines, and the timeless illustrations were a perfect finishing touch. If you love Regency writing, you'll adore this book!
July 2, 2025
I have no words... This book said it all. 🥰
This book reminded me why I love poetry so much. ACK! It was pure beauty. Achingly beautiful. 'Nough said.
You need this book in your life. <333
This book reminded me why I love poetry so much. ACK! It was pure beauty. Achingly beautiful. 'Nough said.
You need this book in your life. <333
August 31, 2023
Many thanks to the author for a copy of her work. All opinions expressed are my own.
Whimsical. Thoughtful. Classical. These would be the three words I use to describe this beautiful collection of poems. Transported to the 1800s, these poems really do connect to old souls and allow readers to feel like they are living in the regency era.
"Use Me Here" and "To The Dear One Who Has Loved Me," are my absolute favorite pieces in this collection. In terms of the latter, I am still raving about it to my friends and family. "Use Me Here," is expressing a desire to the Lord to use you, during you day, and to always seek Him. And "To The Dear One Who Has Loved Me," is a riveting tale of how someone would like to spend their last moments with their lover.
So why 3 stars?
I really liked this collection, but what was incredibly frustrating were the one-liners. It is very rare for a poet to be able to convey any type of emotion or thought-provoking statement with just one sentence. And Linder failed to do this, on more than one occasion.
For example, "Today has something tomorrow will never have." Okay - what else? And probably worst of all, "If I were anything but a person I would wish to be a tree." Right. I assume these were done to add to the playfully quaint nature of this collection. However, it just took away from this collection, in my opinion. They seemed out of place and truly lacking in any substance.
However, I am still compelled to read more from this author and think she is incredibly talented.
Whimsical. Thoughtful. Classical. These would be the three words I use to describe this beautiful collection of poems. Transported to the 1800s, these poems really do connect to old souls and allow readers to feel like they are living in the regency era.
"Use Me Here" and "To The Dear One Who Has Loved Me," are my absolute favorite pieces in this collection. In terms of the latter, I am still raving about it to my friends and family. "Use Me Here," is expressing a desire to the Lord to use you, during you day, and to always seek Him. And "To The Dear One Who Has Loved Me," is a riveting tale of how someone would like to spend their last moments with their lover.
So why 3 stars?
I really liked this collection, but what was incredibly frustrating were the one-liners. It is very rare for a poet to be able to convey any type of emotion or thought-provoking statement with just one sentence. And Linder failed to do this, on more than one occasion.
For example, "Today has something tomorrow will never have." Okay - what else? And probably worst of all, "If I were anything but a person I would wish to be a tree." Right. I assume these were done to add to the playfully quaint nature of this collection. However, it just took away from this collection, in my opinion. They seemed out of place and truly lacking in any substance.
However, I am still compelled to read more from this author and think she is incredibly talented.
August 15, 2023
"Bygone" is a beautifully written and dazzling book of poetry from Hannah Linder! These poems are written with such heart, passion for life and poetry, feeling, and originality. I knew this collection of poems would be great, but I have been absolutely riveted by the beauty of this book! Each poem tells a different story and expresses a variety of different thoughts, emotions, and themes. These poems are thought-provoking, inspiring, and beautiful. The richness of the imagery expressed and the musicality of each line is exceptional! There is no doubt in my mind that "Bygone" is a work of art that would be perfectly at home during the Regency-era— placed lovingly on a mahogany or rosewood bookshelf in the company of works "By a lady," John Keats, and William Wordsworth. This collection also possesses a freshness, vitality, and originality. I very highly recommend reading "Bygone"! There is something beautiful and of great value for all readers to enjoy in this collection. Thank you very much to Hannah Linder for providing me with the wonderful opportunity of being on the ARC Team for "Bygone" and for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
August 18, 2023
During my youth, it was customary for young girls to use a diary to write down their thoughts, secrets, and even their secret crushes. Today, journals are the preferred method for recording one's thoughts and I've been given the privilege of reading a journal penned by author Hannah Linder. Bygone: Musings and Poems from a Regency Hearthside is a collection of Linder's notes and thoughts that have been jotted down as poems. Observations and thoughts that could easily be my own!
This collection is divided into four categories titled Love, Life, Nature, and Death. Some of the poems are whimsical and others show great depth but each one will touch your heart. They are reminiscent of Jane Austen and the Regency era, but they also reflect life as it is in our 21st century. It is a wonderful collection that poetry lovers will especially appreciate so do yourself a favor. Grab a copy, settle back with a cup of tea, and prepare to lose yourself in Bygones!
I received an advanced reader copy but there was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
This collection is divided into four categories titled Love, Life, Nature, and Death. Some of the poems are whimsical and others show great depth but each one will touch your heart. They are reminiscent of Jane Austen and the Regency era, but they also reflect life as it is in our 21st century. It is a wonderful collection that poetry lovers will especially appreciate so do yourself a favor. Grab a copy, settle back with a cup of tea, and prepare to lose yourself in Bygones!
I received an advanced reader copy but there was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
August 15, 2023
“Sometimes I am so delighted with living that I forget about unreal worlds. Other times, I’m so delighted with unreal worlds that I forget about living.” Living by Hannah Linder
I absolutely loved this new poetry collection Bygone: Musings and Poems from a Regency Hearthside by Hannah Linder. She’s not only an amazing Regency romance writer, but an accomplished poet as well.
In this beautiful collection of poems, she shares insightful thoughts on love, life, nature, and death. At the beginning of each part is also a lovely illustration.
It’s so hard to pick a favorite poem because each one is so touching and unique. Some of my favorites are: Bittersweet Friend, Love You?, Your Grin, Things Already Mine, Living, If I Ever Had A House Painted White, and many more.
This gorgeous, inspirational book is definitely a must have for historical fiction & Regency romance fans. I received an advanced complimentary from the author. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
I absolutely loved this new poetry collection Bygone: Musings and Poems from a Regency Hearthside by Hannah Linder. She’s not only an amazing Regency romance writer, but an accomplished poet as well.
In this beautiful collection of poems, she shares insightful thoughts on love, life, nature, and death. At the beginning of each part is also a lovely illustration.
It’s so hard to pick a favorite poem because each one is so touching and unique. Some of my favorites are: Bittersweet Friend, Love You?, Your Grin, Things Already Mine, Living, If I Ever Had A House Painted White, and many more.
This gorgeous, inspirational book is definitely a must have for historical fiction & Regency romance fans. I received an advanced complimentary from the author. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
August 20, 2023
Bygone is a collection of musings and poems with hints of regency. There are four parts pertaining to: Love, Life, Nature, and Death. The book is so well written that you can feel the joy and sadness in each of the poems. My favorite is "Love You?". It sounds like something I would have personally written to my husband. Here is an excerpt:
"Why but for you would I sit here
Every evening at just this time,
While you read me the latest paper
On politics, money, and crime?
And who do you think I pray for
When I kneel each night at our bed?
I could pray for wealth or fine things,
But I pray for you, dear, instead"
I look forward to sharing this with the rest of my family.
*Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
"Why but for you would I sit here
Every evening at just this time,
While you read me the latest paper
On politics, money, and crime?
And who do you think I pray for
When I kneel each night at our bed?
I could pray for wealth or fine things,
But I pray for you, dear, instead"
I look forward to sharing this with the rest of my family.
*Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 29, 2023
What a delightful, diverse collection of poems and reflections with a Regency twist! I love the format which features the selections grouped by theme—Love, Life, Nature, and Death. The entries in this beautifully written, heartfelt collection run the gamut from fanciful to serious dispensing humor, inspiration, wisdom, and encouragement. I thoroughly enjoyed this collection, and I think it is sure to please--especially Regency fans. Highly recommend.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 21, 2024
This was a sweet and lovely collection of poems and thoughts in four parts: Love, Life, Nature, and Death. It wasn't exactly what I was expecting. The title says "from a Regency Hearthside" so I was thinking it might be more...I don't know. About the Regency period somehow. It does seem like some of the poems might have been written by one of Hannah Linder's characters, but mostly they were timeless pieces with the twang of Appalachia embedded in their tone. It was not at all a disappointment, though! Beautiful poems. Mostly straightforward, but sometimes subtle and nuanced and thought-provoking. I liked it very much.
August 15, 2023
Lovely in every way!
Not only does this book evoke a time I wish I lived in, but it made me feel so seen and understood with my own heart musings and trials. There were many times I thought, “yes that’s exactly it!” It has depth as well as wit and would be a perfect gift for a young woman learning how to navigating the world and her own heart.
This is such a wonderful addition to the literary world, birthed with poignant detail and exquisite poetry.
I received a copy of this book from the author. This in no way affected my review. All thoughts are my own
Not only does this book evoke a time I wish I lived in, but it made me feel so seen and understood with my own heart musings and trials. There were many times I thought, “yes that’s exactly it!” It has depth as well as wit and would be a perfect gift for a young woman learning how to navigating the world and her own heart.
This is such a wonderful addition to the literary world, birthed with poignant detail and exquisite poetry.
I received a copy of this book from the author. This in no way affected my review. All thoughts are my own
August 16, 2023
I have enjoyed Hannah Linder's writing and storytelling from the first tale of hers I read.
In "Bygone" she shares her musings and poems with the reader in a way that is not to be forgotten soon. In the sweeping, yet sweet regency era style - these poems and musings feel like letters from a long lost friend in this delightfully vintage feeling collection.
It would make a nice addition to a gift basket for a dear friend or to sit on your coffee table to be enjoyed every now and again.
In "Bygone" she shares her musings and poems with the reader in a way that is not to be forgotten soon. In the sweeping, yet sweet regency era style - these poems and musings feel like letters from a long lost friend in this delightfully vintage feeling collection.
It would make a nice addition to a gift basket for a dear friend or to sit on your coffee table to be enjoyed every now and again.
August 29, 2023
Bygone by Hannah Linder is a wonderful collection of poems that transport you back to a simpler time filled with a touch of whimsy and romance. They consist of love, life, dreams and death that are sure to captivate all who read them.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more wonderful books by this author in the future.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher and all conclusions are mine and mine alone.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more wonderful books by this author in the future.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher and all conclusions are mine and mine alone.
August 5, 2023
Poetry with a twist of regency? Count me in!
I am so grateful to be on the launch team for this gorgeous book!
Hannah's writing is gorgeous! So much emotion and thought lie behind each verse, making you need more.
Releases August 15th! 🥳🙌
I am so grateful to be on the launch team for this gorgeous book!
Hannah's writing is gorgeous! So much emotion and thought lie behind each verse, making you need more.
Releases August 15th! 🥳🙌
July 23, 2025
Her words are beautiful!
August 16, 2023
This collection of poetry was just incredible. Loved the old English regency vibes of this collection it took me away to another world when they dressed up in fancy dresses,went to dances and had cups of tea in huge mansions with enormous sprawling gardens. Thank you Hannah for writing such incredible poetry ✨️
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews