Review by Victoria Copsey -- The VD Anthology by Various

[Victoria Copsey]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The VD Anthology" by Various.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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The VD Anthology: Volume 2 by Various is a collection of poetry, short stories and extracts exploring a wide range of themes, emotions and experiences. The works within this book are collated from a group of writers, Club Verbal Discharge, that meet in London to share their pieces. These writers have continued to produce provocative and enigmatic work throughout the rollercoaster year that was 2020. Inspired by the pandemic, Brexit and political uncertainty, these writers have created relatable, thoughtful and cathartic literary work that provokes thought and admiration.

This anthology evokes a vast range of emotions from the escapist comedic stories to the painful reality of many in the extract from ‘Big Cats of Cactus Creek’ by Cheryl Baden-Powell to exceptionally crafted satire. The reader can go on a different emotional journey with each of the extracts, which leave an irrevocable impression.

One of the most enjoyable and profound parts of this anthology is how every extract and story is relatable. If not directly relatable, then indirectly through the emotions portrayed by the author. Although each piece is personal, the feelings and experiences felt by the author, literary subject and reader are universal. I especially liked the visual inclusions of Sophia Rainbow Haddad in ‘North East to North Africa’. My favourite piece is the short story 'A Herman Melville Cinderella' by Alexandra Liedinger. This story details the search for a woman, desired by the Prince, that is the cause of chaos, greed and bloodshed. This beautifully illustrative prose drew me in, and although it is only a few pages long, I felt as though I had entered another reality.

There was nothing that I specifically did not like about this anthology. My only criticism is that, perhaps, some of the extracts were difficult to truly appreciate, as you cannot read the entire work. I would have also liked the anthology to be a bit longer - so that I could read more from this talented group of writers.

I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars, as it is a thoroughly enjoyable and thought-provoking collection of works. I did not notice any errors or spelling-mistakes in the anthology, and each author has written clear intricate pieces. Therefore, I believe it has been professionally edited. I would recommend this book for anyone interested in short, relatable stories and poems or a little bit of escapism from these unprecedented times. However, the reader should be aware that there is a reference to sexual assault and rape, which one might find triggering.

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The VD Anthology
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[cbear5]

This seems like an intereting novel. Great review!

[Goodness C N]

This is an incredible review. Bravo

[Victoria Copsey]

This seems like an intereting novel. Great review!

Thank you!

[Victoria Copsey]

This is an incredible review. Bravo

Thank you for stopping by!

[kdstrack]

Many readers would enjoy the emotions and ability to relate to the stories these authors present. The pandemic caused many different emotions that readers can release through reading these stories. I enjoyed your motivating remarks about wanting to read more of these stories! Great writing.

[Sou Hi]

Thanks for your intriguing review. I'm not really into poems, but your review makes the anthology so interesting that I want to check this book out.

[Mtibza eM]

Wow! The fact that it is inspired by everything political and the uncertainties of last year and even of today, just shows how great this book is. I should definitely check it out.

[Victoria Copsey]

Many readers would enjoy the emotions and ability to relate to the stories these authors present. The pandemic caused many different emotions that readers can release through reading these stories. I enjoyed your motivating remarks about wanting to read more of these stories! Great writing.

Thanks for your intriguing review. I'm not really into poems, but your review makes the anthology so interesting that I want to check this book out.

Wow! The fact that it is inspired by everything political and the uncertainties of last year and even of today, just shows how great this book is. I should definitely check it out.

Thank you all for your kind comments. I hope you enjoy the read if you do decide to check it out!

[kandscreeley]

This sounds like an interesting anthology that actually makes a statement. I'm not sure it's for me, but I appreciate your review.

[AvidBibliophile]

The ability to produce proactive, cathartic, enigmatic works throughout a global pandemic is commendable. It sounds like this anthology offers an unforgettable reading experience! Thanks so much for sharing your informative insights.