Bestselling poet Bridgett Devoue shares insight and advice into the powerful world of unrequited love and abuse.
Soft Thorns Vol. II is a continuation of the deep and emotional journey author Bridgett Devoue started with her debut poetry collection Soft Thorns. Similar to her first book, Devoue’s lyrical and comforting writing is perfectly complemented by gorgeous illustrations. Focusing on themes of online bullying, abusive relationships, and unrequited love, Devoue’s topics resonate. As she explores and elaborates on these issues over eight chapters of poems, the reader will discover all the knowledge and power to be gained from facing hardships head on. Soft Thorns Vol. II is for those who are struggling to reckon with their past, apprehensive of what is to come, and a little nervous about everything in between.
i've always had the urge to write for as long as i can remember. my earliest writing memory is from middle school, when we had to write a poem for a class assignment. naturally, i was drawn to writing about my darkest, most vulnerable experiences. my poem was voted best in the class, and i got to read in front of the entire school. i recieved a standing ovation, and realized that my words could make others cry, not out of sadness, but out of connection.
as life went on, i eventually stopped writing, spending the next few years making mistakes & learning, on repeat. after a breakup, job change and a sudden onset of chronic pain, i found myself overwhelmed by life. writing became more than an escape: it was healing me. i began sharing my work on instagram, and the feedback i received was life changing. knowing that others not only appreciated my work, but also related to it, inspired me to continue to write, finally culminating in my first book, soft thorns.
I really enjoyed this poetry collection by Bridgett Devoue. I found many sections to be deeply relatable. And I would continue to read anything she released. Four Stars.
I received an advance reader copy of this book to listen to in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Soft Thorns Volume 2 is a short collection of poetry relating to hurt, abuse, domestic abuse, shame and heartbreak. This book was beautifully narrated by the author and I enjoyed listening to these poems. Some resonated with me and some missed the mark as I felt they had too much information within one poem all at once, but overall enjoyed this poetry collection.
Soft Thorns Vol II, is a poetry composition that is raw, mournful, lustful, pitiful, painful, decisive and healing. Five chapters that nearly made me bleed with conflicting emotion for her.
In Ms. Devoue’s prologue she states: “ Don’t worry if it burns a little...that’s what happens when you play with fire”.
Well, call the Fire Department!!
Audio Version: While the poetry itself is heartfelt, I feel Ms. Devoue did a disservice to her work, by narrating it herself. Her voice is extremely monotone. With little, to no emotion read into her words, the reading of her poetry sounded as if she were “dead” inside, or devoid of any true feeling....lest she intended the listener to imagine that. IMHO, powerful heartfelt words, need an equally emotionally and convincing voice
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and Bridgett Devoue for an AAC in exchange for my honest opinion.
A while back I read the first Volume of Soft Thorns and even though I didn't end up liking it that much, I was still curious to check out the continuation.
Soft Thorns Vol. II explores the journey from dreaming about meeting a person and starting a relationship to facing the realization you have to leave that person because they've changed you into someone you don't like. The poems deal with trauma, trust issues, the fear of letting go of something because of nostalgia and all the good memories that overcloud the reality and toxicity of the relationship.
I liked some of the poems, while others felt like a random sentence or two that were separated in parts for "aesthetic" reasons and I found myself feeling bad for the whole page/the paper that was wasted. I definitely enjoyed this volume more than the first one. The illustrations were quite beautiful, I do wish they were more frequent.
having not read soft thorns vol. I i wasn't familiar with Devoue's writing. as an audiobook, i think is great, specially since it's narrated by the author and she knows how her poetry is meant to be read. however, i didn't love her poetry. her style is a modern-ish, but not in the good way. the pacing was weird, the structure was ok but it was super repetitive. the use of the angel/demon metaphor was overdone and it got annoying.
i feel like this is perfectly fine, nothing more, nothing less. i loved the illustrations, i really appreciated some of the poems but i just didn't really connect with a large percentage of this collection.
I was going to rate this 3 just to equal my rating of the first book (both are average, maybe even below) but typos in books vex me on a whole other level. How do books get published through actual well known publishers with typos!!
I have had this on my shelf for a while and picked it up while waiting for my other book to arrive. It is a beautiful book about coming to terms with the poet's experiences in relationships. I unfortunately could not connect to these poems but I know there is someone out there that would feel see and felt by these words.
Thank you to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for an advanced electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
In this five-chapter book of poems, the author takes you on a journey of love, lust, heartbreak, abuse, and recovery. She dives into the vulnerabilities that so many of us face, and gives words to the feelings. As it is so eloquently said in the description, "This book won't give you a life boat, but it will show you how to swim."
I really enjoyed this collection, and the illustrations by Laura Klinke were stunning. I was able to relate more often than not, and I loved the flow within the poems. It didn't feel strict or like I had to read it a certain way to "get it."
Soft Thorns Vol. II, penned by the incredibly talented Bridgett Devoue, is a poetic masterpiece that delves deep into the realms of vulnerability, resilience, and self-discovery. As I listened to this remarkable collection, read by the author herself, I embarked on a journey of healing and empowerment, feeling an indescribable connection to the raw emotions expressed within its verses.
From the very first poem, Devoue's words wrapped around my heart like a comforting embrace, gently urging me to confront my inner struggles and insecurities. Each word felt like a revelation, revealing the beauty in even the most fragile aspects of our existence. The author fearlessly exposes her wounds, inviting us to explore the intricacies of our pain and reminding us that we are not alone in our battles.
What sets Soft Thorns Vol. II apart is Devoue's remarkable ability to intertwine strength with vulnerability. Her words are both gentle and fierce, captivating and liberating. With every poem, she challenges societal expectations and empowers the reader to embrace their authentic selves. Through her evocative imagery and masterful use of metaphors, she creates a safe space where wounds are transformed into sources of strength and growth.
The themes explored in Soft Thorns Vol. II are both universal and deeply personal. Devoue delves into the complexities of love, heartbreak, self-acceptance, and the process of rebuilding oneself. She beautifully captures the ebb and flow of emotions, reminding us that healing is not linear but a continuous journey of self-discovery. The poems act as mirrors, reflecting our own experiences and evoking emotions that resonate long after the book is closed.
Devoue's writing style is a fusion of simplicity and profoundness. Her words have a lyrical quality that tugs at the strings of your soul. They are not merely ink on paper but a symphony of emotions, wrapped in the gentle embrace of wisdom and vulnerability. Each poem is meticulously crafted, leaving an indelible mark on the reader's heart.
Soft Thorns Vol. II is a book that demands to be savored. It is meant to be read slowly, allowing each word to seep into your consciousness and touch the deepest recesses of your being. It is a testament to the power of words and the transformative nature of art.
In conclusion, Bridgett Devoue's Soft Thorns Vol. II is a captivating and profound collection that invites readers to embark on a journey of self-reflection, healing, and empowerment. It is a book that speaks to the soul, offering solace and inspiration in equal measure. I wholeheartedly recommend this anthology to anyone seeking solace, understanding, and a renewed sense of purpose. Prepare to be moved, uplifted, and forever changed by the power of Devoue's words.
Divided into 5 parts, this book follows the reasoning of a narrative, to understand the story she wants to tell, but the bad thing about it is that it seems more of a story than poetry itself, take a narration and separate it between 'enters', this is what I felt reading this. At least the illustrations were really cool ...
Summary: Where you left me - many metaphors with roses for my taste :/ Love in chaos - we are 2 fused psychologically, come and hug me the art of destruction The final goodbye - All the people who pass in our lives leave marks (Re) finding the light - Combo of motivational messages and overcoming
Well I wouldn't say I saw anything new here, the same moral and motivational lessons of instapoetry (loveyourself baby yeeh). I think she addressed a little bit about demisexuality around here or was it my illusion? well I liked that
Music recommendation (I thought about it during that book): Blame Game - mxmtoon
Thank you for NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review! / Obrigada NetGalley pela oportunidade em troca de uma resenha honesta :)
A heartfelt and enjoyable collection of poems, accompanied by powerful and haunting illustrations. I think the first half of this book was more refreshing and relatable, while the second half started feeling repetitive so I wasn't as engaged.
I loved Soft Thorns and was excited to see a second volume! Thank you Netgalley for an arc of this book!
Though the poems weren't anything too special, the illustrations were STUNNING and definitely made up for them. There were definitely some poems I related to, some that were pretty heart-wrenching, and some that were beautifully written, but they didn't blow me away. I still enjoyed this reading experience though!
This one didn’t hook me immediately because it felt juvenile in some areas but the more I read, the more I liked it. I like the theme and it has good continuity. I don’t like the fact that the poems aren’t titled because I find it hard to tell where one poem ends and the next one begins but if you assume that every page is a new poem then it works out fine (and goes to show how great the continuity is). Overall, this was an enjoyable and inspiring read. I’d like to get my hands on volume one as well (I started with volume two because that’s all the bookstore had at the time).
“I want to crawl into that dark place of yours and shine your light by reflecting in me your beauty I see so you finally feel how worthy of love you are to me”
the illustrations in here are absolutely stunning! I liked this one a bit more than the first volume & all I can say is that I’m happy to have found my way back to poetry🥹
*Soft Thorns* by Bridgett Devoue is a raw and emotional poetry collection that explores themes of love, heartbreak, trauma, and healing. The writing is simple yet powerful, making the emotions easy to connect with. Many poems feel like personal confessions, offering comfort to anyone who has struggled with pain or self-growth. The imagery is vivid and honest, capturing both vulnerability and strength. While the tone is often dark, the book also offers hope and empowerment. It’s a quick but meaningful read, perfect for readers who enjoy modern poetry that speaks openly about mental health, relationships, and finding light after darkness.
Wow, i mean WOW. Thank you SO much to the publisher and. Netgalley for giving me the opportunity of reading this amazing poetry book and author! This is the first audiobook i listened here and the most appealing thing was that the author narrated it herself! Such sweet voice, such feelings. I felt overwelmed in a good way and embrassed by it. And most importantly I felt really related, and conected with all this. I recommend it to the entire world.
Let me start my review by telling you that I went into this with doubt, the last book I read filled with poems wasn't a good read. I found out I had nothing to fear after the introduction, Bridgett Devoue just takes your heart and stabs it with words, till your heart bleeds as much as hers. I have never felt the things she did, and yet I can relate to every word ... Every poem... I had to pick one quote (because that is what I do often while writing a review) but I couldn't just pick one quote, I had to pick many because this book is filled with so many beautiful quotes and poems. | Advance Review Copy generously provided by NetGalley, all opinions in this review are my own.
Bridgett Devoue puts down her words on paper so carefully, yet her words cut through hearts. Her words are innocent hidden in guilt. Pain mixed with love and lust. Hope combined with rejection. It's like Bridgett Devoue grabs your heart, shaping it, just like your hands would shape a piece of clay.
𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝑰 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆𝒅: • The cover is just gorgeous and I am loving the title of the book!!! • Bridgett Devoue reads her poems in the audiobook, this makes the poems she wrote even more thrilling and hurtful (if that is even possible). • There are so many beautiful quotes and poems in this book! It's hard to read/listen to a poem she wrote in this book and not feel something. Every poem was as beautifully painful as the one before.
1. This is the second volume and I have not read the first, so: here goes nothing
2. I liked the message that this collection is giving out about healing and forgiving oneself.
3. How do you properly rate something where the writer was pouring their soul out? It's so hard to do it, but sometimes the work doesn't quite resonate with you and eish, it's difficult to do.
4. 'Soft Thorns' is beautiful and I do like it. Devoue's gentle voice gives it a little more something. It's soft and soothing.
So... I need to stop buying poetry books and reading them in a single sitting. But they're just so good! Yes, some of them hit a little close to home, but damn, if that isn't some beautiful pain.