Cause and Effect Poetry by Chessly Nesci (2009, AG Press, $10.95) is a diverse collection of poems and poetic short story/essay/ruminations. They range from recession-era ("Economy," "Dream House") to romantic ("Dream," "Crush") to inspiring ("Strength") to fairy-tale-like ("The Hidden One"). Along the way, Chessly meditates on such topics as the tragic loss of her father, an emotionally abusive past relationship, and personal insecurity. She deals with these weighty topics with a hopeful, yet realistic, determination. Which is not to say she can't be lighthearted: see, for example, her loving ode to coffee:

"...I love the smell of coffee beans
And how they sound
Grinding in a coffee machine
I am an addict
Maybe I need therapy
Don't think I want to stop
It makes by body feel warm
Soothes the senses
Makes me feel relaxed at first
Then mighty accomplished after a cup
Just curious if anyone else is addicted?
Loves it better than a lover
Has to have it first thing..."

The book concludes with eleven short-short stories, the best of which are "Flying," "Summer Love" and "Blind Date." These three in particular feature intriguing, yet realistic, female characters in romantic scenarios. (You can't blame me for liking them best; I'm a hopeless romantic myself!) I look forward to more from this talented poet...and won't have to wait very long. According to AG Press editor and publisher Cheryl Pillsbury, Chessly has two more books of poetry and short stories in the works!

You can find Chessly's book online at the AG Press bookstore: http://agpressma.books.officelive.com/ChesslyNesci.aspx.