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Soft Thorns #2

Soft Thorns Vol. II

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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.
 

240 pages, Paperback

First published May 4, 2021

31 people are currently reading
1211 people want to read

About the author

bridgett devoue

7 books201 followers
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.

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5 stars
287 (32%)
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277 (31%)
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229 (26%)
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52 (5%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
Profile Image for Reading_ Tamishly.
5,302 reviews3,465 followers
September 17, 2021
I enjoyed some parts.

And I like the sketches in between the pages.

Somehow I couldn't connect much with the lines and at times I felt like there's too much information that needn't be shared.

But it's okay.

I enjoyed this advance reading copy.

Will look out for the next volume.

Thank you author and the publisher for the advance reading copy.
Profile Image for Natalie  all_books_great_and_small .
3,131 reviews169 followers
October 4, 2021
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.
Profile Image for Laur.
709 reviews126 followers
July 2, 2021
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.
Profile Image for Just Another Perfectionist .
117 reviews367 followers
April 22, 2021


My rating: 3.5 stars

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.
Profile Image for Aida ☾.
258 reviews15 followers
May 8, 2021
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.
Profile Image for Rose.
30 reviews
January 26, 2022
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.
Profile Image for Liv Chalmers.
Author 4 books15 followers
July 30, 2021
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!!
Profile Image for Mirna.
160 reviews5 followers
May 24, 2021
“Have you ever broken your own heart trying to avoid a broken heart?”

~ stop.
Profile Image for Rook.
288 reviews16 followers
October 31, 2021
This was really good!!! It didn't resonate with me quite as much as the first one did, but I still really liked it!!!!!!
Profile Image for Kathryn.
6 reviews
December 1, 2023
if you took a shot every time the author says "demon" or "angel" in a weird sexual way, you'd die of alcohol poisoning.
Profile Image for Ytirahc.
126 reviews
February 25, 2025
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.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
1,084 reviews36 followers
April 12, 2021
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."
Profile Image for Shreemanti.
204 reviews
May 25, 2023
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.
Profile Image for Giovanna Pohli.
43 reviews
April 12, 2021
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 :)
Profile Image for Cherlynn | cherreading.
2,128 reviews1,006 followers
April 14, 2021
3.5 stars

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!
Profile Image for Jan Agaton.
1,397 reviews1,581 followers
April 19, 2021
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!
Profile Image for Michelle M.
82 reviews3 followers
January 23, 2022
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).
Profile Image for Karina (shedreamsinwords).
851 reviews41 followers
June 23, 2023
“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🥹
Profile Image for Sukriti .
3,629 reviews1 follower
December 1, 2025
**Book Review (100 words):**

*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.
Profile Image for Karley Essington .
360 reviews
June 8, 2021
I was already crying during the dedication. I love everything about this book. The artwork was such a great bonus.
Profile Image for Sara.
72 reviews18 followers
May 12, 2022
Some poems really hit, some not at all. Still a great poetry collection.
Profile Image for haruhimee.
234 reviews4 followers
May 22, 2021
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.
Profile Image for ♡ Gibby ♡.
115 reviews41 followers
May 12, 2021
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭 𝘰𝘯 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘦.”

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.

“𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘯 … 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘯.”

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.

"... 𝘞𝘩𝘺 𝘩𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘬𝘪𝘯, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘯𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯."

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.

“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘭, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢𝘧𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘥𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘴.”

𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆𝒅:
• Nothing.
Profile Image for Sinamile .
424 reviews8 followers
May 14, 2021
Audiobook ARC Review: Received for free via NetGalley for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

CW/TW: depression, parental emotional neglect, anxiety, sexual assault/rape, intimate partner abuse, unhealthy/toxic relationship, PTSD

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.
Profile Image for Rebekah.
153 reviews12 followers
May 8, 2021
Not my thing. DNF near the end of chapter one. Not my idea of poetry.
Profile Image for Tori BookWorm22.
216 reviews
August 24, 2025
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.
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