Title: Transitions: The Journey Continues
Author: Andrea J. King
Publisher: WP Lighthouse
ISBN: 979-8-89518-487-5
Pages: 168
Genre: Poetry/Memoir
Reviewer: Lily Amanda

Read Book Review

Andrea J. King’s anthology of poems and tales Transitions: The Journey Continues is a deeply poignant yet motivational story of the author’s quest for self-discovery and the restoration of her self-esteem.

In one entry, “Another Day in the Life,” she discusses her hope for a long-awaited paradigm shift and her optimism that things would improve in the future. She explains the reasons behind her confidence in her subsequent poem, “Reboot,” which cites the events that resulted in her complete psychological meltdown. She goes on to describe the cost of prioritizing the wants of others over her own and the method she employed to get rid of individuals who were hanging around her neck “like a stone.” In yet another piece, she captures in “Can’t Break Free” the feeling of being bound to one’s old routines due to a fear of failing and a failure to consider the possible advantages of change.

Andrea explains in detail how she was a martyr to her partner’s sentiments in her broken relationship. In “Never Again,” “Why Should I,” and “Not Getting Through To You,” she employs a variety of metaphors, such as a ship in choppy waters, to further stress the problems that arose as a result of her spouse’s unfulfilled promises. In “To Love Again,” she describes what kept her trapped in the marriage despite the abuse and goes on to discuss her intense need for liberation, which she likens to a caged animal that has been denied its freedom.

Together, these poems are so deep in phrasing and emotion that every line will make the reader want to tear down as the scenarios are reenacted in their imagination. The pieces, which are deeply rooted in the author’s greatest trials and experiences, depict everyday situations that individuals frequently choose to remain silent about. Her ability to portray each of them in great detail and her candor about her anxieties and near-misses are what set hers apart.

I was pleased by the author’s candid assessment of what it takes for a relationship to succeed and her stance against taking on other people’s burdens while disregarding her own. She struck me as a strong, tough woman who is dedicated, committed, and has faith – qualities she amazingly exhibits even when the favor was not reciprocated. She pulls motivation from previous wins and manages to share that enthusiasm with the reader right away.

Transitions: The Journey Continues by Andrea J. King should be studied and reflected on by young adults and adults alike as a roadmap for overcoming one’s personal challenges and difficulties. It is packed with valuable insights and important pearls of wisdom that will inspire one to pursue one’s goals with unwavering resolve. It is a must-have for everyone trying to forge their own path!