The Book of Strange Persuasions

"I am a lover of poetry but rarely do I read a full book of poetry by an author and like every poem. Well with this book I did. There are different sections that I think will provide a little something for everyone. If you have never gotten into poetry before this book would certainly be a good place to start and a good way to get hooked. As you read these poems some dark, some funny you can see that Alistair Cross isn't just a writer but a wordsmith. He writes like every word bends to his will. He obviously loves to write and it comes through in each poem. I highly recommend this collection to anyone whether you are into poetry or not I think you will enjoy it. I did. Excellent!"

"Wow. This collection of poetry really did wow me. As a poet myself, it takes something special to really affect me, and Cross' words did that. I know how different poetry can be to any other kind of writing- it's way more personal- and at times you feel like the reader is staring into a piece of your soul. I could feel the emotions in these poems just seep off of the page. I highly recommend this book and will be searching out more of this author's work."

"This is the only poetry book I've ever purchased because I've never been much of a poetry fan - but this collection is fantastic.Alistair Cross is a great writer and this book is proof of his talent. The Book of Strange Persuasions tackles many different topics and I've already found myself returning to it again and again and every time I do I find something new to love about it. I rate this book five stars because I think even people who think they don't like poetry will love this book."

"I wish I could write this review as eloquently as the Author wrote this book! This book, this collection, is awesome. Alistair takes you on a rollercoaster ride of darkness and light, of love and hate, and of life and loss. If you are in need of word porn, something to make you laugh and pause, despair and think... This is for you."

"I thoroughly enjoyed this book of poetry. Not usually a fan of rhyme, I love Alistair's style. From love to death and dark to romantic-it's all worth the read. Well done!"

"Alistair Cross' debut poetry book, The Book of Strange Persuasions, is perhaps one of the most brilliant books that I have read by any contemporary poet. His choice of vernacular is impeccable and comparable to the works of Edgar Allan Poe, Lord Byron, and Keats. His has a natural talent which simply cannot be learned, as he is capable of taking pain, pleasure, heartache, and sorrow and turning each emotion or thought into beautiful, intricately woven pieces of art. As a poet and writer who has studied creative writing under the guidance of one of the Poet Laureates of Canada, I am fully aware of the elements of great poetry. Mr. Cross presents all of these in his works and so much more. My only regret is that I didn't come across his work earlier in my life."