I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author and poet Tim Stobierski share a beautiful queer love story through a collection of powerful poetry in the collection “Dancehall”.

The Synopsis

A queer love story in five acts, Dancehall follows the arc of a relationship from its earliest days to its final, somber conclusion.

In these 60 poems, you will join the speaker as they navigate the highs and the lows, the tranquility and the turbulence, the euphoria and the despair that comes with giving yourself fully to another.

Through language, imagery, and form at once universal and intimate, you are invited to take part in this love story – not as some distant observer, but as a central figure: The “you” to whom the speaker writes these poems.

Experienced poetry readers and poetry novices alike will enjoy the clean, simple style embodied in the majority of the poems.

Whether straight or queer, young or old, single or happily partnered, these poems are for anyone who has ever loved or longed for another.

The Review

This was a powerful and memorable story. The way the author was able to convey this relationship from start to finish through poetry produced an incredible and emotional read. The subtle yet powerful moments in this relationship really stand out, and the imagery the author used made the narrative these poems were telling feel alive on the page.

The heart of this book was in the main narrative itself, as the reader felt the strong pull of this emotional bond formed between two people. The closeness and the haunting memories of that closeness play a crucial role in the themes of love and loss, and the honest and important language the author uses to bring this queer love story to life was so passionate and engaging. 

The Verdict

Thoughtful, emotional, and moving, author Tim Stobierski’s “Dancehall” is a must-read collection of poetry. The structure of this five-act play of sorts and the memorable imagery that captures those heartfelt moments both good and bad made this a compelling read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Tim Stobierski writes about relationships. His work explores universal themes of love, lust, longing, and loss — presented through the lens of his own experiences as a queer man. His poetry has been published in a number of journals, including the Connecticut River Review, Midwest Quarterly, and Grey Sparrow. 

His first book of poetry, Chronicles of a Bee Whisperer, was published by River Otter Press in 2012.