When We Were Everything traces the delicate, tangled threads of relationships that define us. Through a series of deeply personal poems and stories, these pieces capture the bittersweet essence of youth, the complexities of love, and the unvarnished reality of growing up.
This collection is a journey through the heart—reflecting on past loves, missed connections, and the enduring search for meaning in a world that never stops moving. Perfect for readers who appreciate introspective, character-driven writing that speaks to the soul.
I don’t typically write reviews on here but when I saw there were absolutely no reviews I thought I should. I don’t think this book deserves 3 starts but it’s not quite exactly 4 star material either so let’s just place it in the middle.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Context: I listened to the audiobook that I got for free on some app. It looked interesting enough and in all honesty, it was a short listen. I listened to the first 20 ish% laying in bed with my eyes closed, trying to use it to fall asleep. However it kept me up.. I was laying there smiling and felt proud of the author for whatever reason. A book that has no reviews and was published so recently, I sadly had judged it before knowing anything about it. I put something else on to listen to while trying to fall asleep and the next morning instantly turned it back on. So here is my formal review…
Kia Orion’s When We Were Everything: Poems and Stories is a heartfelt exploration of life’s highs and lows, offering a glimpse into the author’s perspective with raw emotion and sincerity. The collection combines poetry and short stories, weaving together themes of love, loss, and self-discovery in a way that feels deeply personal and authentic.
While the writing is evocative and honest, some passages feel a bit awkward or unpolished, which occasionally interrupts the flow. Additionally, a few of the stories left me wanting more detail or depth, as if they ended before fully reaching their potential. Despite this, the imperfections add to the book’s charm, highlighting the vulnerability and realness that make Orion’s work stand out.
What I appreciated most about this collection is its unfiltered portrayal of life through the author’s unique lens. There’s an undeniable rawness that draws you in and makes you reflect on your own experiences. Though not perfect, When We Were Everything is an enjoyable and thought-provoking read that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
Interesting collection of experiences with partners who were almost, but not quite, the “right one”. A breadth of personality types are brought forth, encouraging the reader to feel wistful that a connection didn’t continue, laugh out loud at the ridiculousness of what happens, or cringe while seeing a train wreck about to occur. These stories are a delightful and “steamy” read!