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Seasons
"Seasons" is an exploration of grief, love, abuse, bisexuality, and the neurodivergent experience. This is the debut poetry book of Hillary Gonzalez."Seasons" is divided into four sections, according to the seasons of the year. Each season corresponds with a life event reflecting the beauty of spring and summer, the harsh chill of winter, or the retrospective contemplation of autumn. "Seasons" is a journey that will lift the reader up, make them cry, and act as a light in the dark for others who have felt abandoned in the shadows.
168 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2024
About the author
Hillary Gonzalez
3 books7 followersHillary Gonzalez (she/they) is a Baltimore based queer, disabled, and AuDHD poet, whose work explores themes of nature, identity, and healing. They are the authors of Seasons, and the ecopoetry collections, Wild Unfelt World (Gnashing Teeth Publishing April 2026), and Where the Osprey Nest (Palewell Press August 2026). Their poems have been published by South Broadway Press, Canid Press, and in anthologies by Bi+ Book Gang, Yellow Arrow Publishing, Loblolly Press’ anthology: Understory, a fundraising anthology for the victims of Hurricane Helene, The Body Archive by Cosmic Daffodil Journal, and In Praise of Despair, an anthology for disabled artists and writers by Beyond the Veil Press.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 17, 2025
I received an ARC of “Seasons” from Booksprout to review. These are my honest opinions.
Wow. “Seasons” by Hillary Gonzalez is an incredibly touching and at times heartbreaking collection of poetry. Organized into the four seasons, each poem reflects the characteristics of the seasons as they relate to the author’s experiences in life. They can be challenging to read at times, and I would advise all readers to take the trigger warnings into consideration prior to reading, but I do believe that they could also be useful in the healing journey of others who have been through similar situations and can relate. Some poems made my heart ache and want to wrap the author up in the most soothing of embraces in an attempt to take away their pain; others made me feel seen, and appreciative that someone else has felt this way too and can put it so eloquently. Overall, this is a beautiful read.
Wow. “Seasons” by Hillary Gonzalez is an incredibly touching and at times heartbreaking collection of poetry. Organized into the four seasons, each poem reflects the characteristics of the seasons as they relate to the author’s experiences in life. They can be challenging to read at times, and I would advise all readers to take the trigger warnings into consideration prior to reading, but I do believe that they could also be useful in the healing journey of others who have been through similar situations and can relate. Some poems made my heart ache and want to wrap the author up in the most soothing of embraces in an attempt to take away their pain; others made me feel seen, and appreciative that someone else has felt this way too and can put it so eloquently. Overall, this is a beautiful read.
March 18, 2024
I'll be honest, I do not typically read much poetry. However, I was truly engrossed in Hillary's collection of poems that are deeply personal. Hillary's vehicle of using the seasons as representations of different transitions and realizations throughout their life is unique and fitting. Here are some of my favorite poems from each section-
Winter: Unwanted, As the School Bus Heads Home, Inherited, Teeth Marks, I Only Date Daddy Issues
Spring: M., To My Younger Self, Hello Again
Summer: By Candlelight, Pearls
Fall: Nana, A November Road Trip
I highly recommend you get yourself a copy of Seasons ASAP!!
Winter: Unwanted, As the School Bus Heads Home, Inherited, Teeth Marks, I Only Date Daddy Issues
Spring: M., To My Younger Self, Hello Again
Summer: By Candlelight, Pearls
Fall: Nana, A November Road Trip
I highly recommend you get yourself a copy of Seasons ASAP!!
March 28, 2024
(Please note that the poet uses she/they pronouns and I will be using and mixing those pronouns throughout this review.)
3.5/5
"Seasons", Hillary Gonzalez's debut poetry collection, explores a wide spectrum of experiences and emotions loosely categorized by the experiences and emotions typically tied to the seasons of the year. "Winter" poems are dark and full of heartbreak and hurt, "Spring" mulls over hope and rebirth, "Summer" contains odes to make you sweat from the heat that isn't coming from the sun, and the "Fall" section concludes with lovely imagery evoking nostalgia and melancholy. While not exactly a groundbreaking metaphor, the poems contained in each section use it well enough and the poet's intentions behind each season are clear without the short prologues at each section explaining them.
At its strongest, the language of "Seasons" is evocative and deceptive in its simplicity. I felt the deep desire of closeness with and breathless lust for the lovers in the summer poems (highlights include "I Need You Closer", "Melting"). Their poems written for and about their current spouse, M, plunge deep into the depths of their love for him, and I saw my own relationship with my fiancée reflected in those lines. To feel that level of connectedness to a writer through the page is a real privilege.
Gonzalez is also deeply inspired by nature (in case that wasn't evident from the title of this collection) and paints lovely images for the reader with her autumnal descriptions (highlights: "Late Summer", "Death of Summer", "A November Road Trip"). Fall is both my favorite season and favorite section of this book, and I enjoyed living in those scenes, even if only briefly.
However, the simple language also serves as a weakness in other poems -- most evident in the "Winter" section, which is unfortunate as it is both the most personal as well as the longest section of the collection.
Gonzalez plays well with poetic language when the subject matter is the least vulnerable. This gives the "Winter" poems a rawness that comes from being half-baked instead of from being stopped cold by an incredibly apt metaphor or a show-stopping final line. I wish that many of these poems had had more time to percolate, to sit undisturbed for awhile and then revisited by the poet to craft something more from the powerful emotions and memories that came from her terrible experiences. As they are, they read more like diary entries with line breaks; not really composed so much as spilled out and left to dry on the page. All of the poems are short; some just three or four lines in their entirety and are not strong enough to stand on their own instead of being part of a longer poem. Even then, some of the lengthier ones feel like they end before they've had a chance to truly begin. Despite this, I deeply admire their willingness to bare their soul in these pages, however many or few lines.
Altogether, flaws and all, "Seasons" is a promising debut from a poet I look forward to seeing grow in their craft. My sincere thanks to Hillary Gonzalez for the opportunity to read the ARC and provide an honest review.
3.5/5
"Seasons", Hillary Gonzalez's debut poetry collection, explores a wide spectrum of experiences and emotions loosely categorized by the experiences and emotions typically tied to the seasons of the year. "Winter" poems are dark and full of heartbreak and hurt, "Spring" mulls over hope and rebirth, "Summer" contains odes to make you sweat from the heat that isn't coming from the sun, and the "Fall" section concludes with lovely imagery evoking nostalgia and melancholy. While not exactly a groundbreaking metaphor, the poems contained in each section use it well enough and the poet's intentions behind each season are clear without the short prologues at each section explaining them.
At its strongest, the language of "Seasons" is evocative and deceptive in its simplicity. I felt the deep desire of closeness with and breathless lust for the lovers in the summer poems (highlights include "I Need You Closer", "Melting"). Their poems written for and about their current spouse, M, plunge deep into the depths of their love for him, and I saw my own relationship with my fiancée reflected in those lines. To feel that level of connectedness to a writer through the page is a real privilege.
Gonzalez is also deeply inspired by nature (in case that wasn't evident from the title of this collection) and paints lovely images for the reader with her autumnal descriptions (highlights: "Late Summer", "Death of Summer", "A November Road Trip"). Fall is both my favorite season and favorite section of this book, and I enjoyed living in those scenes, even if only briefly.
However, the simple language also serves as a weakness in other poems -- most evident in the "Winter" section, which is unfortunate as it is both the most personal as well as the longest section of the collection.
Gonzalez plays well with poetic language when the subject matter is the least vulnerable. This gives the "Winter" poems a rawness that comes from being half-baked instead of from being stopped cold by an incredibly apt metaphor or a show-stopping final line. I wish that many of these poems had had more time to percolate, to sit undisturbed for awhile and then revisited by the poet to craft something more from the powerful emotions and memories that came from her terrible experiences. As they are, they read more like diary entries with line breaks; not really composed so much as spilled out and left to dry on the page. All of the poems are short; some just three or four lines in their entirety and are not strong enough to stand on their own instead of being part of a longer poem. Even then, some of the lengthier ones feel like they end before they've had a chance to truly begin. Despite this, I deeply admire their willingness to bare their soul in these pages, however many or few lines.
Altogether, flaws and all, "Seasons" is a promising debut from a poet I look forward to seeing grow in their craft. My sincere thanks to Hillary Gonzalez for the opportunity to read the ARC and provide an honest review.
March 9, 2024
‘Seasons’ offers a bird’s eye view of the human experience, and easily immerses readers into an East Coast natural wonderland.
Readers’ hearts will break for Hillary in their retelling of childhood and relationship traumas. Those who may know similar experiences will feel as though they are looking in a mirror, or that their own lives have been laid bare within the pages. ‘Water Lilies’ was that poem for me, inspiring me to keep my notebook pages.
Hillary’s parallels to a Mid-Atlantic (sometimes longer than usual) winter will leave you desperate for spring, and when it comes you will understand the beauty evermore. Summer and Autumn follow to drive home the fact that life is cyclical and each season brings new growth and things to let go.
Some may be envious of the passion poured into the pages wishing they had or one day may feel such fire. The love Hillary has for Marco is conveyed in the most sincere and beautiful text. Even the poems you may not directly connect to will give you a glimpse into lived experiences so vivid and moving you will be thankful to have been made aware.
Hillary’s depictions and connections to nature and their specific geographic area transports you to a place that exposes your senses to frost covered branches, damp moss engulfed paths, warm breezes filled with fireflies, and crisp crunchy leaves underfoot.
Prepare to highlight, dog-ear, and revisit ‘Seasons’ for many seasons to come!
Readers’ hearts will break for Hillary in their retelling of childhood and relationship traumas. Those who may know similar experiences will feel as though they are looking in a mirror, or that their own lives have been laid bare within the pages. ‘Water Lilies’ was that poem for me, inspiring me to keep my notebook pages.
Hillary’s parallels to a Mid-Atlantic (sometimes longer than usual) winter will leave you desperate for spring, and when it comes you will understand the beauty evermore. Summer and Autumn follow to drive home the fact that life is cyclical and each season brings new growth and things to let go.
Some may be envious of the passion poured into the pages wishing they had or one day may feel such fire. The love Hillary has for Marco is conveyed in the most sincere and beautiful text. Even the poems you may not directly connect to will give you a glimpse into lived experiences so vivid and moving you will be thankful to have been made aware.
Hillary’s depictions and connections to nature and their specific geographic area transports you to a place that exposes your senses to frost covered branches, damp moss engulfed paths, warm breezes filled with fireflies, and crisp crunchy leaves underfoot.
Prepare to highlight, dog-ear, and revisit ‘Seasons’ for many seasons to come!
April 2, 2024
This book was absolutely beautiful. When I read the section “Winter”, my heart broke along with Hillary. I felt every emotion and even found myself identifying with them because I had, seemingly, very similar experiences. Moving into “Spring” and “Summer” where they experience rebirth and love and passion, I found myself so happy for Hillary. After finishing “Fall”, I immediately wanted to go back and reread the entire book. I felt as if I had experienced hurt and then healing along with Hillary, and I almost felt like reading it had helped heal some of my trauma and made me feel excited and even more grateful for the good experiences in my life. I will be recommending this to everybody I know who loves poetry. I can’t wait for any future work by Hillary, I know it will be just as beautiful and evocative.
April 2, 2024
Seasons is a remarkable work indeed. I don't read a lot of poetry, but when I read what this collection entailed, I knew that I had to make an exception due to my own life experiences and I'm so glad I did.
The author's way with words is truly incredible. I felt every single emotion as though it were my own, even when it was an experience I might not have. Their words are vivid, practically jumping off the page and, depending on the season, left me feeling so many different emotions.
Much like real life, I found my favorite season to be Fall, although each season had favorites. Winter is perhaps a close second; it's not often I see myself reflected quite as vividly as I did in those two collections.
I truly cannot recommend this collection enough!
The author's way with words is truly incredible. I felt every single emotion as though it were my own, even when it was an experience I might not have. Their words are vivid, practically jumping off the page and, depending on the season, left me feeling so many different emotions.
Much like real life, I found my favorite season to be Fall, although each season had favorites. Winter is perhaps a close second; it's not often I see myself reflected quite as vividly as I did in those two collections.
I truly cannot recommend this collection enough!
March 31, 2024
This book takes you on a journey through pain, anger, love, desire, and self reflection. You can feel every emotion deeply. The writing is powerful and evocative. I would recommend this to any and everyone. No matter what you have been through in your life, this book will help you heal. The author gives you a safe space to understand and work through, not only her trauma, but yours as well, and gives you the words to help heal. This book is amazing and I will treasure it for all time.
April 2, 2024
This is such an excellent debut book of poetry with so much movement through the human experience. Playing with various metaphors of light, growth, seasonality, and more, the author showcases snapshots of what it means to be a complex person in a complex world, and how our experiences shape our futures while we in turn get to shape our experiences again. I greatly enjoyed reading and look forward to more work in the future!
April 3, 2024
What a powerful book of poetry. It’s brutal. It’s honest. Gonzalez holds nothing back. From the trauma they endured from childhood to adulthood, their fears, hopes and dreams; to finding love and their place in the world. As the seasons change so does the spirit of Gonzalez. The poems take you to some uncomfortable places. You feel so much for the author. It’s raw and beautiful.
April 11, 2024
"Seasons" by Hillary Gonzalez is a heartbreaking, but thought-provoking book that explores a wide range of emotions through beautifully crafted poems. Gonzalez' writing is evocative and powerful, drawing readers in with its raw honesty and emotional depth.
The collection covers a variety of themes: childhood trauma, love, loss, hope, resilience. Each poem is a reflection of the human experience, capturing the complexities of our innermost thoughts and feelings. Gonzalez' words have a way of resonating with readers, leaving a lasting impact long after they have finished reading.
What sets this book apart is Gonzalez' ability to convey emotions and thoughts that are very personal and intimate and not often spoken about. Her words are both comforting and challenging, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions. The poems are beautifully written, with a lyrical quality that makes them a joy to read aloud.
Overall, "Seasons" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates poetry that delves deep into the human soul. Gonzalez' writing is both poignant and profound, offering a glimpse into the depths of our emotions and the power of language to express them. I highly recommend this book to poetry lovers and anyone looking for a heartfelt and moving read.
In addition, I hope that Ms. Gonzalez has been able to heal through this process of sharing her traumas. Best wishes to her. I hope to hear of more books to come!
The collection covers a variety of themes: childhood trauma, love, loss, hope, resilience. Each poem is a reflection of the human experience, capturing the complexities of our innermost thoughts and feelings. Gonzalez' words have a way of resonating with readers, leaving a lasting impact long after they have finished reading.
What sets this book apart is Gonzalez' ability to convey emotions and thoughts that are very personal and intimate and not often spoken about. Her words are both comforting and challenging, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions. The poems are beautifully written, with a lyrical quality that makes them a joy to read aloud.
Overall, "Seasons" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates poetry that delves deep into the human soul. Gonzalez' writing is both poignant and profound, offering a glimpse into the depths of our emotions and the power of language to express them. I highly recommend this book to poetry lovers and anyone looking for a heartfelt and moving read.
In addition, I hope that Ms. Gonzalez has been able to heal through this process of sharing her traumas. Best wishes to her. I hope to hear of more books to come!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews