The Broonie and Other Dark Poems by Deborah Sheldon
The Broonie and Other Dark Poems is a disquieting collection of poetry by award-winning author Deborah Sheldon. Published on April 4, 2025 by Hiraeth Publishing, the paperback weighs in at 49 pages.
This is the first review of a poetry book I’ve done. Not because I don’t enjoy poetry. I like reading poems, trying to suss out their meanings, and experiencing the emotions that are conjured up as the words touch me.
This collection is one of the most interesting I’ve encountered. I found the Afterword as fascinating as the poetry. Sheldon discusses which of her publications were inspired and transformed by a traditional form of poetry she chose. Some of the forms used were strambotto, villanelle, flamenca, sonnet, ballad, triplet, and more. It seemed fitting that the style of the poem that inspired the title of the collection (villanelle) is also known as “exquisite torture.” Kudos to Sheldon for creating such a unique collection.
I’m no stranger to Sheldon’s writing, and getting a chance to experience another one of her creative outlets was quite enjoyable. It was inspiring to watch how she combined prose with the rigorous and staunch rules of poetry, forcing her previous works to evolve into new creations. I’m not a poet, so I didn’t recognize the forms immediately, but that didn’t hinder my ability to understand the stories told in such concise and strict spaces.
Despite having twenty pieces, this is a quick read. The poems will take readers on a journey, discovering beautiful terrors and feeling fear and suspense. I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of horror played out in many of the poems. If you’re a fan of monsters, trickery, and revenge, I think you’ll enjoy this eclectic book of poetry.
“The Broonie” was inspired by Sheldon’s flash fiction piece “Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc,” which also was adapted into a prize-winning stage play. “The Broonie” was shortlisted for an Australian Shadows Best Poem Award. I’m not surprised, as it’s a gorgeous, haunting tale.
Need more Deborah Sheldon? Here you go!
Check out my other reviews of Deborah Sheldon’s works:
From Deborah Sheldon’s Website:
I’M AN AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR FROM MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA.
I WRITE SHORT STORIES, NOVELLAS AND NOVELS ACROSS THE DARKER SPECTRUM OF HORROR, CRIME AND NOIR.
MY CREDITS ALSO INCLUDE TV SCRIPTS, STAGE PLAYS, MAGAZINE ARTICLES, AND AWARD-WINNING ANTHOLOGY EDITING AND MEDICAL WRITING.
