I have known Imelda Garcia for almost two years, but we have never met in person (She lives in Texas and I'm in Plymouth, UK). We have worked together as Admin and moderators on a number of Facebook poetry groups and I have grown to know her and her poetry from a distance. She's been through a lot in her life and this book epitomises many of her trials, joys and challenges. It is a book suffused with optimism and uplifting verses.
It is with great pleasure that I announce the publication of her debut collection through the Wheelsong Books press - Beyond the Pyre. Here's the blurb I wrote for it...
Beyond the Pyre is the stunning new collection of poetry by Imelda Zapata Garcia. The poems, dwelling on themes of family, love, loss and redemption, are saturated in imagery and metaphor and infused with chicano cultural references. The poet invites you to journey with her through her mind and memories of life, love and relationships. Beyond the Pyre is a poetic anthem to the art of surviving the flames of life.
...and here are a few endorsements from poets and writers:
Beyond the Pyre is a fascinating delve into the mind and deep soul of an absolutely brilliant writer. Taylor Newman, lyricist for Alice Cooper
Imelda writes with such a rich complexity, her words full of stunning detail. Brandon Adam Haven, poet and author of Into the Grey
Imelda Zapata Garcia unearths a mine of poetic treasures. Rafik Romdhani, poet and author of Vapour of the Mind
Rich in verse, a tapestry of colours to illuminate and shine. Sarfraz Ahmed, poet
A resounding affirmation of life. Matt Elmore, author of Constellation Road
Garcia has found her literary voice through this collection. A deft use of rhyme schemes and themes of internal strength and delicate beauty resonate throughout. Genevieve Ray, poet, author and playwright
Treasure to cherish forever. Charlene Phare, poet and author of Cobalt Skies
A depth of lyricism that really resonates. Rhiannon Owens, poet
An anthem to the art of surviving the flames of life. Steve Wheeler, poet and publisher
A galvanic poetess with a depth and a sonorous voice that ignites on paper. Alan Patrick Traynor, Irish poet and author of Until the Broken Clouds Answer
Beyond the Pyre is available on Amazon and selected stores across the globe in Kindle, softcover and hardcover editions. All the relevant links can be found on the Wheelsong Books website.
Steve Wheeler
