Stephan J myers delivers yet another eclectic mix in his new volume "The Fallen" I found this pairing of Stephan and Pixie Woodstock's work both full of atmospheric nostalgia and hard hitting descriptive writing. Exploring all aspects of war, it negotiates raw emotion and loss in its description of the nuclear, ripple, and global consequences of conflict. Written from all perspectives, this read presents more than just a traditional view, and does not shy away from tackling issues such as PTSD, conscientious objection, and the ethics of war. It spans from past to present with poems such as "The Telegram" and "Syria" creating a telling and heart-wrenching journey. Absolutely love this book.

Beautiful book!- This poetry is honest and soul searching, and both the poems and reflections give insight into the writers thoughts as he penned them. He touches on both the security and joy of love, but also it's fragility, which lays us open to loss, regret, and even judgement. Stephan j Myers does indeed reach across the divide and touch heart and mind. If you are a frustrated poet, he will make you want to write. If you are tired of love, he will make you want to find it. All aspects of love are touched on, romantic, family and principled, and his reflections will definitely make you think about the importance of connection and taking a risk on love. After all are we really human without it?

Being a numpty, I didn't spot that this was a poetry book - I was too enticed by the fabulous cover and I really wanted to read an adult book by this author, so impressed was I by his writing for children. Normally, poetry has me tip-toeing back out of the door, hoping no-one spotted me entering, but this was the sort of poetry which slides over your skin leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake. The sort that conjures up images so powerful they stay with you for a while.

Absolutely loved it! I didn't want this book to end. Every poem struck a chord with me, and I could really relate to each poem. The illustrations alongside are just superb too! One particular poem made me get knots in my stomach as it reminded me of certain times in my own life, but then when reading the next poem I found myself having completely different feelings. I have every one of this authors books now and my two daughters also love his stories. This particular book is heart warming, well written and every word means something.......whether it be sad or happy. This book made me 'feel' which is something I have never experienced before whilst reading. A definite must for any person who loves the idea of true love and what it stands for.........it is simply lovely to read!

I purchased this book as soon as it came out, as I had read "Loves Lie Within" earlier, and I thought I would enjoy his new book, as well. Well...that was an understatement! I want to warn you that if his subtitle of "An Exploration of Love & Lust" makes you expect something lewd or lascivious, you're not going to find it. Not that you would be disappointed, how could you be? Stephan's poetry is so classy and beautiful, even elegant. Being a writer, I went first to "The Writer" and found it personally satisfying and something I could identify with. But then I noticed "Dear Writer" and wow! The closing stanza gave me goosebumps! If only I could achieve that sort of connection with my readers! Stephan's poetry becomes deeper and more polished with each new book, and I am looking forward to future books.

Myers' poetry, even on the subject of love and lust, has a purity about it that is undeniable. I loved this collection of rhymes whose format and lyricism echo a distant past, though its theme and content are contemporary. The drawings are breathtaking.

Having read and enjoyed several of Mr. Myers' books for children, I was pleasantly surprised with this book. I wouldn't go so far as to say that the content is "adult" in nature, as it's not erotica, but it does require an adult level of emotional intelligence, understanding and experience of the mysteries of this life to truly appreciate. Perhaps I'm wrong. The world is a much more wonderful place than I'm aware if I am. I hope it is. I think I could read a book of Mr. Myers' reflections on love for the rest of my life. I'd keep that book in my pocket for long train rides and on the bedside table to read before nodding off.From subjects as expansive as writing and the tragedy of war to the most intimate of kisses. A book of poetry that delivers what it promises. I highly recommend it. And, if Mr. Myers' ever releases a book of reflections as touching and profound as the ones included in this volume of work, I'd treasure it all my life

“Of all the wondrous things to touch our lives, can anything be as self-fulfilling as love?” Stephan J. Myers will touch your mind and heart with this eclectic collection of reflections that found form in the authors darkest of hours. “Love Lies within” is a brilliantly written book from start to finish. It's a book of beautiful, moving and sometimes heart breaking collection of verse - referring to the subject which is dear to our hearts. . .LOVE. This is a book that will be kept close at hand on my bedside table since it will be read often. “Love Lies within” What an absolutely gem of a book!

I hadn't read classic or modern poetry in many years, so I must start by saying that I chose to read this book on a whim, being familiar with Mr. Myer’s work for children. I am glad that I chose "Love Lies Within." I believe other “cautious” readers of verse would enjoy Mr. Myer’s poetry because they, like me, would understand and appreciate it. His words speak to me simply, yet eloquently, about something that can be very private-love. The subject of love here is not just between two spiritual, emotional, or physical lovers, but also love for someone lost in war, for someone who must hide their love, for love that never happened, and many other situations people finds themselves in throughout life. What can be more uplifting than to find someone who can capture your emotions and transform them into lovely words? I appreciate that most of Mr. Myer's work is for children, but with this book, he has definitely entered the adult world, and I hope to see more from him.

These words and poems have broke my heart,finished the book yesterday sat on the sofa,tears running down my face,brings home the horror of war,heartbreak,poor,poor children,mums,fathers.the feel must have been hell. My hubby is a veteran,doing op Banner in N.I. Four times and that was bad for me, amazing work ,as always Stephan, it was an honour to read,Well done.

I am not usually a reader of poetry, but having read 'Love Lies Within' I was touched at how emotional Stephan J Mayers managed to make me feel. I felt as if his words described many personal things, things that we all share in common, yet don't like to admit to, or are to embarrassed to. Wonderful writing, a must read!

This is the third book I have read by Stephan J Myers. The short rhyming tale has left me moved and with a big lump in my throat. I wanted to read it again, as soon as I put it own. Beautiful illustrations compliment the words perfectly and invite discussions about the true meaning of Christmas and thinking of the less fortunate. I can see this being used in schools and playgroups. I'll be reading this book with my daughter once she is a little older. In the meantime I'll be appreciating how lucky I am and will try to look out for that boy with the lamp.

Simply called The Kiss, it really is an exquisite poem about lost love that many people will relate to. Rhythmical and soulful it's as long as his best seller The Prayer and as equally likely to reduce the reader to tears. In many ways I think Love Lies Within is a step change from his usual work in that many of the poems are written for his older readers and therefore bring an even greater degree of depth than his more whimsical children's tales in rhyme. The writer is described as darker and it is something of an exploration of our inner most desires. At the end of the day though it will be The Kiss and The Fallen which will leave readers deep in thought. A simply beautiful book!

A truly beautiful but heart breaking read. My favourite is Love Lies Weeping. The words resonated with me and brought me to tears. Anyone who has ever loved and lost someone dear and essential to them cannot fail to be moved by the words: "I close my eyes, I'm cast adrift, your absence leaves and endless rift" and "Your essence gone, those days are past, l love like ours not meant to last". This is a poignant collection of verse, to be read slowly, in a quiet place and savoured. And, with a box of tissues!

What a beautiful, evocative book that so completely encompasses the plight of those less fortunate than us. Each carefully chosen word melts into the next, a haunting melody of emotion that will make you feel the chill of the snow, and almost feel the roar of the fire as the little boy looks into the windows of the Christmas adorned homes. How sad to think that there are still those who cannot experience what the majority of us do at this most, wonderful time of the year. The artwork that accompanies this work is simply stunning. Beautifully detailed, the colours pop off the page. A heartbreaking work of art for a truly special, and worthwhile cause. Thank you.

Wow, how many of us can relate to the poems contained in Love Lies Within? I would say, all of us. We've all had our hearts broken, trampled and generally treated like crap and we've all held unrequited love for someone and loved someone more, maybe, then they've loved us. Love Lies Within captures all of these painful moments as well as capturing what is so fantastic about love. But it isn't just romantic love it deals with. Love Lies Within tackles the love we hold close to us for those fallen heroes, known or unknown, and the love we extend when we held someone in need. Truly heart wrenching.

Beautiful book!- This poetry is honest and soul searching, and both the poems and reflections give insight into the writers thoughts as he penned them. He touches on both the security and joy of love, but also it's fragility, which lays us open to loss, regret, and even judgement. Stephan j Myers does indeed reach across the divide and touch heart and mind. If you are a frustrated poet, he will make you want to write. If you are tired of love, he will make you want to find it. All aspects of love are touched on, romantic, family and principled, and his reflections will definitely make you think about the importance of connection and taking a risk on love. After all are we really human without it?

As someone who loves both poetry and the spoken word this is a beautiful example of both. There are some things that tap back into the difficult times in your life that you don't realise are still lying on the surface, and Stephan seems to highlight such times. I was reminded of my grandfather, who was a prisoner of war, and a wonderful man, both inside and out. It is a great gift, and suitable for a wide range of ages too.

This short but beautifully illustrated book was not what I expected. It’s not the type of thing I would usually choose to read. However, I’m very glad I did read this excellent little tale. It’s a deep and very moving work that leaves the reader both illuminated and emotionally challenged. Each page paints a clear picture of despair and hope. It’s like being part of a colourful dream that could so easily become a nightmare. It’s a book I will definitely read again and one I will think about every Christmas holiday. The words flow as easily as the images and when you all too quickly reach the end you are left feeling you have shared a lasting revelation.

The wait was most certainly worth it....My book arrived safe and sound and I couldn't wait to get started. As soon as I started to read I knew I wasn't going to put it down until I had finished. Once again Stephan Myers as written from the heart. His words take us with him on an emotional journey. Words that most of us can relate to at some point in our lives.......The title of the book says it all.

Wow...this beautiful book has left me breathless and not quite ending the way I hoped it would... What a powerful picture Stephan painted with his well chosen words and richly coloured artwork. Two polar opposite examples with consequences. So glad I have this birds-eye view to ground me in gratitude of how lucky we are with our homes,family, safe places and things. Definitely a book to start a conversation about compassion and connection with others and truly understand that although we all have different lifestyles and contexts...,we are all connected and human and being down on luck could happen to any of us at any time. A wonderful read...

Once I’d finished reading “The Prayer”, I had to take a few moments to sit and reflect. It was mesmerising and thought-provoking from beginning to end. The short tale follows a small, un-named boy (which makes the story all the more heart-breaking) through hardship during the last day of his life. It’s a lesson to be learned. At Christmas time, it’s easy to become materialistic and forget about the people who genuinely need the support of others. I could hardly read the end, as my eyes were filled with tears! -Please take half an hour (or so) to sit down with your Kindle and read this wonderful tale. Stephan J Myers has a superb writing style. I'm grateful that I found this beautiful book purely by chance. I'll definitely be recommending it to others.

There are few books I have read that leave me so deep in thought, but The Prayer is one of them. Reminiscent of much loved classics like The Little Match Girl by HCA, with echoes of A Christmas Carol, it’s a must read any day of the year but especially over the winter months and Christmas. The words are simply beautiful and the illustrations are something to dwell on.I’m not sure how anyone could read it and not be touched by the words.