Skip to main content

Reviews From Readers


Reviews of the Brummet's Books ! 


This page highlights the reviews that we have received for our books.

Sadly, when authors revise and update a book for republishing, the landing page will sometimes drop reviews for the previous edition(s). Print and online publication reviews are rarely included on Amazon's landing pages either. 

As such we wanted to make sure that these amazing reviews were not lost or forgotten :) 

You'll notice these are excerpts, not the full review, and that is because it would take up too much room on the page to publish the entire review. 

We hope you enjoy browsing them, I have separated  them by our multi book image, the featured book on on the top of each image will pertain to the reviews below. 


Playing With Words; a 3-book poetry series
- Towards Understanding
- Rhythm & Rhyme
- Poetic Wanderings

Trash Talk; green living series (book 1 & 2)

Purple Snowflake Marketing; writer's guidebook revised 2023
(watch for book 2, the next step in your book marketing plan)

From One Small Garden; cookbook

* Watch for Down The Road (family memoirs spanning from WW2 to 2016) - to be released soon!






* From One Small Garden - Over 300 Delicious, Nutritious Recipes




"I have tried a number of the recipes and have not been disappointed at all. 
I also love the homemade bug repellant." 
~ Karen Shannon

I enjoyed the simplicity of the recipes resulting in very tasty and nutritious dishes. You don't really need to be a gardener (I'm not) to make good use of this cook book as there is always a selection of recipes that work with what I have in my fridge and cupboards. The recipes offer suggestions for variations, which accommodates individual taste preferences. The internet has made finding recipes easy, so I stopped using many of my cookbooks. From One Small Garden is a cook book I will continue to enjoy using."
~ "Forever JZ"

"I have seen and used many cookbooks in my day, all of which, by definition have a variety of good recipes. This one is quite different, for it includes lots of background info and explanation and useful tips, plus personal and familial stories. It is especially useful for someone who has their own garden or who is a very careful and prudent shopper. It feels like a social visit where old friends are swapping tips and tricks and recipe guidance over tea and crumpets."
~ Kiki W.

"I know this lovely couple who have a garden as lovely as can be. I have tasted Lillian's jams and pickles, and got this wonderful recipe book. Absolutely pure, fresh, flavours; easy and delicious. This book should be in every kitchen. I love their recipes and treasure their recipe book. I have given it away to newly-wed friends. It is so easy to follow the description when preparing a delicious meal. You won't regret having this cookbook creating wonder in your kitchen."
 ~ Celia Pringle

"The nice part about this cookbook is that there are variations included for a lot of the recipes so you can customize or adapt the dish to your mood or even which vegetable you have on hand. It has given me more confidence in the kitchen when it comes to garden harvest time or when I bring a load of goodies come home from the farmers market.
~ Pam Johannsen; Good Food Magazine

"First thing that struck me was the beautiful cover design! But then I saw just how large this book is -  275 pages. I love the large font size - no more squinting in the kitchen trying to find my place in the recipe!

Then I started browsing the chapters and saw titles like Thai Lettuce Rolls, Tomatillo Salsa, Peanut Sauce, Brocco-shroom Salad, Sweet Wheat Germ Bread, Homestead Mushroom Soup and Falafel Patties. I can hardly wait to try them all! 

The really interesting part comes at the end of the book. There's this chapter with quite a few helpful recipes for the household, like: natural hair spray, sprays to keep away pests, household cleaners and air fresheners, herbal tea concoctions for headaches, digestive issues, hormone or illness... and there's even stuff for the dogs; skunk remedy and doggie treats. No longer will I have an endless pile of recycling and trash to deal with because I'm making these at home! Reducing plastic bottles, plastic wrap, paperboard boxes and so on. Reducing my exposure to chemicals... I love it!

I like how the index is created too - it is designed so that when you've taken advantage of peak harvest season at the farmers market and got an amazing price to boot, then what are you going to do with it all? It is easy. Just look up the veggie or fruit you have on hand and start browsing the enticing recipe titles that will include that particular fruit or vegetable. 

I can't recommend the Brummets' new book enough. I encourage you to buy it. The last chapter alone will quickly save you more money than you spend on the book.
 ~ Arlene Browne

"I give this cookbook a four only because of no pictures. The recipes are easy and very flavourful. Good purchase; I’m just a picture girl." ~ Elizabeth Gagnon

"Since COVID I haven't been able to afford the rising cost of eating at my favourite restaurants anymore. Then along came this wonderful collection of recipes called "From One Small Garden" that taught me how to cook with variety and flavour! One of the most used books on my shelf now.
~ Greg Maldon

 " I am not usually a fan of cookbooks, myself, but I found this one to be exceptional !"  ~ Greylin Heather Brummet 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------







"This book has been helpful for my husband and me, as we have been working on a non-fiction book. One of the first lessons we learned was that writing the book is the easy part, which came as a surprise to my husband, as he was proud of all the thought and work he had put into his literary project, but then stalled several years ago when he realized that the manuscript creation is just the first step. Publishing, and then marketing the book and getting it out there, all of which requires money we didn’t want to spend, seemed too daunting. More recently, however, reading this book helped him to get back on that horse and get it moving again. Now we can say our own first book should be available fairly soon. Thanks, Lill and Dave!" ~ Kiki & Gary Towne

"Marketing is so scary. There are so many nooks and crannies to maneuver through. The authors try to gently lead the reader along through the process without making you feel overwhelmed. Definitely five stars." ~ Dr. David R. L. Stevens

"A comprehensive well-written book that provides informative, insightful, and useful information that authors can easily implement to promote and market their book. The book, in my opinion, is refreshing and provides a unique perspective for getting your book to stand out among the hundreds of thousands of other books published and sold."  ~ David Medansky 

 “When I looked at your book I said – ‘This is extremely well organized’. And to me it laid out a pathway. ...and you spent your life gathering this information, and to be able to give it away at the price that you are doing, I think that is absolutely wonderful. ...(as a member of the media) I read hundreds of books a year... They might have a shiny cover, and the author might be well known, but they are a lot of fluff relating to marketing and PR. With your book, I can’t say that. Your book would run circles around the books I’ve read about marketing. It is just so systematic and so well thought out.” ~ Linda Leon host of That Author Radio show 


"... is a must for every new author. This information packed how to book covers everything there is to know about the marketing of your work of art. This was an inspiration to me as I am a newly published author myself. I will definitely use a lot of their techniques in my upcoming endeavours. If you have not already purchased your copy I encourage you to do so." ~ Glenda Lee Davis; Roots And Branches blog 


"...I coach clients on marketing their books and writing the marketing section of their book proposals, so over the years I’ve learned a lot. Your book is thorough, comprehensive, and very detailed. It hits on every aspect of marketing… I especially like the Q & A sections." ~ Cindy Barrilleaux, Writing Coaching Services 


"...Online, offline, in person, in taxi cabs, by mail, at events, anywhere and everywhere, their marketing reach tries to touch every potential reader ...could easily add hundreds if not thousands of orders to any book published today." ~ Author, former television journalist, video producer and magazine editor Frank Hilliard 


"...Your questions about how to get reviews, what to do in internet marketing, making media kits and writing press releases will all be answered. This book is a Godsend to new authors." ~ Author, Betty Fasig


"...One of the best guidebooks any writer could have on the journey of guiding their work to its final destination. ...Sound knowledge of how the market works and what it takes to reach the reader. Their advice is invaluable. The information you'll find here is exhaustive. The range of materials and resources in the appendices is truly mind-boggling." ~ Lois J. Peterson: author, educator, writing and editing consultant @ LP Word Solutions

"Purple Snowflake Marketing is an easy-to-read step-by-step primer on how to get your book out there and noticed.~ author, blogger: Stephen Porter

"Dave and Lillian Brummet set out to give writers a clear path to success. They offer various preparatory steps, including some good material on self-care and time management. Then they seek to demystify the bookselling process in face-to-face venues. They discuss bookstores, smaller venues, libraries, and alternative places. “If your book has ski content, for instance, visit ski shops to hold signings…” The also lead you through your target groups to help you better identify your customer. The book offers several antidotes, encouragements, and examples along the way.

I often ask people why they got into writing. Seldom is it “to make lots of money.” Most writers wouldn’t turn down fame and fortune, but got into writing to tell a story. This book is a refreshing counter to the many, many, many, many, many books out there on digital sales, FB ads, and internet marketing. There is something special about the live, in-person connection of an author and reader, perhaps even more-so now as we come out of Covid and quarantines." ~ Jerry Harwood

"Well-thought-out information for book marketing. I was aware of some of the things that the authors presented, but they offered a fresh approach. There were many new ideas as well. I consider this a good purchase for me and I believe I will refer to it often." ~ Jan Romes blog

"The Brummet's pen an interesting and informative book in Purple Snowflake Marketing (PSM). As a former author, I found it very valuable, but I also learned from it was well. I read through the entire book, and found that in the beginning of the book, there are five steps that are key to effective marketing. What I did like, too, about what was in the book, that it wasn't all high tech or social media marketing. There were ideas for what most would call "old school." Too many times people rely on the tech and forget how to use a real dictionary, encyclopedia, and yes, even an old phone book with both white and yellow pages. There were different quotes through out the book that related to marketing or promotion. It was an interesting tool that authors should at least read and see if it can help in any way. Purple Snowflake Marketing is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more titles by this author."  Amy's Bookshelf Reviews

"...Doesn't just expose authors to opportunities; it also helps steer them away from pit-falls in the publishing industry. ...Advice on marketing your book, beginning with the day you sign the contract …A realistic outlook on what a new or relatively unknown author can expect and how to employ research and preparation to make a memorable first impression. …Offers fresh ideas and a realistic view with statistics to assist in making informed decisions as you put together a marketing plan." ~ Donna Sundblad: author, editor and educator

"A great source of information for every author – seasoned or new. ...Can use to develop a strong marketing/promotion plan to help get started and survive in this maze of a book industry." ~  David Lewis, author

…Covers that vital expanse of time between producing a manuscript that’s fit for publication, and getting your book into the hands of paying readers. …Offers much needed assistance by presenting the essential ingredients of a comprehensive marketing plan. …Presents tips, advice and ideas in a plain and straightforward way, making the book very accessible and easy to read.” ~ Keith Plumb, editor of UnHeard Words E-zine

…This marketing book is very thorough. The chapters cover a great swath of material. Highly recommended.” ~ ~ Andrea Campbell, editor of Soups On E-Newsletter 

"...If you're looking for a book to help guide you through all of the steps of an effective book marketing plan, then I highly recommend that you add "Purple Snowflake Marketing" to your bookshelf today!" ~ Author and Editor of Coffee Break for Writers, Misti Sandefur

"I am reading your book on marketing. It's exactly what I needed. Thank you!" ~ Danae 

“As a person who made a living writing corporate publicity for some of the world’s largest companies, I thought I would not glean much in the way of useful and realistic information from a marketing book. I was wrong!” ~ Elizabeth Eagan-Cox, author

It is my opinion that every author, whether they are published or hoping to be published, should own a copy of this book. The information is presented in a concise, clear fashion and each subject is covered in a way that makes it easy for the author to apply the suggested techniques to their own marketing requirements.” ~ Carol A. Guy, professional editor and the author of Spirit Lake Books I and II

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------








* The Trash Talk Series ! (2 - books)


"My husband, who grumpily takes up the daily mantle of “recycling police” for our own condo building as well as those of his clients, sees this book as his rule book. Many of us (unfortunately not all of us) know that modern society must make huge changes in order to alter our dangerous and cumulative trajectory regarding how we as a species fail to properly take care of the planet where we live. If we just wait for big government and big corporations to “do the right thing,” there would likely be little change, even with some political activism. Meanwhile, although we like the idea (at least in theory) of protecting our home planet for ourselves and future generations, we as a people actually fall deeper into the hole of comfort and convenience. This series of books help us realize the many small changes that inconvenience us as little as possible, and that, as these small changes of attitude and action spread within society, they can have a cumulative effect." ~ Kiki Towne

"...buy this (series) for yourself. But also consider giving it as a gift to others. It may be one of the most durable gifts you have ever bestowed on another person. Its very likely you will earn back the purchase price every month, if you put just a few of this book's wonderful suggestions into practice - and your planet will thank you." ~ Mind Connection E-zine

"I really enjoyed reading Trash Talk. This is something that should be in every household... I would not hesitate to recommend this book!" ~ Tim Dueck, Public Education Coordinator for the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (Canada)

"...I chose the chapter on cereal boxes and bags. It explained everything succinctly and had a benefits summary at the end. I implemented the recommendations and a week later, I went back to the book and read the chapter on brushes and brooms... suddenly, I was reusing more and it was all manageable and doable." ~ Scribe & Quill Magazine (USA)

"...written out of a labour of love for mother Earth. ...the numbers will stun you... a great learning tool for youngsters to start getting involved. ...I have learned many new things that I can put into practice... I strongly recommend this book!" ~ Ameasha Brown (Canada) - book reviewer 



"...an accessible hands-on guide for reducing waste..." ~ Ann Leonard - Global Anti Incinerator Alliance 



"...reaching beyond simple recycling, the authors take a look at everyday household items and offer practical - and often downright clever - approaches." ~ Back Homes Magazine (USA) 



"...a most welcomed resource for simple, easily assimilated time and money saving habits that actually make an appreciable difference in our planet's overall health. ...not the typical tree-huggers to me commonly associated with the practice of conservation and recycling... drawn from generations of practical experience ... extremely informative and helpful manual... a call to consciousness." ~ DeVoll Reviews - Cheers E-zine 



"The Brummets believe it is possible to reduce our levels of consumption and waste production and to this end have composed a guidebook for the home on how to do just that. Want to start composting but don't know how? ...this book provides detailed tips on how to renovate, reuse and refurbish common items." E-Magazin (USA)



"Exceptional motivational book to stimulate and inform environmental champions in the workplace - Recommended!" ~ Eagle Bulletin (South Africa) 



"...easy to read... a positive approach.. useful tips and practical ideas on how to take action as consumers and citizens." ~ Georgina Bloomfield - Friends of the Earth, (UK) 



"This is a book to be applauded on many levels: from the succinct subtitle to the comprehensive resource section at the end. ...a book for everyday life, to inspire and encourage each of us to make our own contribution." ~ Issues Magazine (Canada) 



"...numerous environmentally friendly and cost-saving benefits to reducing trash and reusing some of those maddening boxes, bags and other containers that plague the life of every consumer." ~ Judith Porter, author of Coco Twain Tells the Truth 



"...I was amazed at the many ways that every item from A-Z could be reused. ... before you throw out anything, have second thoughts and a first look at Trash Talk. Buying this book will save you money!" ~ Kathy Schultz, author of The Convent and the Rose 

"I was greatly pleased with Trash Talk... it tells you not only how to do your part to save the environment, it teaches how to save money while doing it!" ~ Mariposa Jones, author of Sanguine Secrets 

"..an important, informative and well-written book... a must-read for everyone concerned about saving money and our planet's limited resources!" ~ Michelle True



"...ease of access to information is the major strenght of this book. a detailed table of contents allows quick page turning to a myriad of ideas on how to help save the environment." ~ Mary Hill - book reviewer for Muse Book Reviews



"Kudos for renaming the 3-R's and making "Refuse" number one!" ~ Nadine Dechiron, former project coordinator for Granby Wilderness Society (Canada) 



"...each chapter ends with a section on benefits from using the ideas in that chapter by pointing out all the ways you've saved money, improved on natural resources, saved time and perhaps created a new gift. ...a comprehensive, easy to understand manual... I'll never again be able to look at my used dryer sheets in the same light!" ~ On a Whim E-zine 

"...shopping to minimize packaging waste, tips on reusing, reducing energy... more than 140 web sites and publications in the resource section." ~ Reiterate Newsletter (Canada) 



"...the authors discuss in alphabetical order various ways to reduce waste, reuse common products... small day-to-day changes that we can all make. Books like these are needed in every language in every culture ...these small steps often contribute to the birth of policy initiatives." ~ Resource Conservation and Recycling Journal (Netherlands)



"...Lillian Brummet, daughter of former Ridgecrest resident Joanne Smith, has teamed with her husband to generate an assortment of easy-to-read, easy-to-implement directions designed to get more individuals, families and institutions in on the waste reduction act." ~ Ridgecrest Daily Independent Newspaper (California, USA)



"...a refreshing book... The authors focus on changing people's mindset to a more open, hopeful and proactive one, not by finger-pointing at corporations and governments - but by starting in people's own homes, at their own desks." RNet Technology Newsletter (published by Natural Resources Canada) 



"Dave and Lillian Brummet have taken on a challenge to educate the public while providing comfortable and agreeable alternatives that will make a real difference. ...Their stunning and perceptive research will lead many of us to implement these simple life-changing habits..." ~ Sherry Russell - book reviewer for Midwest Book Reviews 

"...full of information, and will certainly motivate its audience. I recommend this book with the highest rating." ~ Samia Muqueem, author of Visions of the Soul

 

"...contains tips ranging from how to use leftover grocery bags to what to do with old toothbrushes... every reader is guaranteed to find many practical tips they can institute in their own lives." ~ Sarah Playle, author of the Distance Between Us 



"...a slightly bigger-picture look at environmentally responsible actions such as picking up trash while walking, reducing energy consumption and organic gardening." ~ Scrap Magazine (UK)

 

"...indispensable help for the earth - especially needed in schools and businesses!" ~ Self Care Minder E-zine 



"...it is comforting to know that any effort one makes to reuse items, reduce waste and recycle responsibly, actually does have an impact. ...the research is solid and it educates in a positive, creative and common-sense manner..." ~ South West Blend E-zine 



"...refreshing ... uplifting. Most of the ideas presented have been used in their home, most are relatively simple and do not require any unusual tools or skills." ~ Warmer Bulletin (UK) 



"...should be required reading in classrooms." ~ Wolfgang Schmidt - reader, educator, author 



"...unique ...asserts the agency of consumers to influence government and industry." ~ Yafit Rokach - Parks Quality Assurance (Canada)


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------



"The author bears her soul trying to come to grips with abuse and neglect. She writes to find meaning at a confusing time. I especially liked the antidotes at the end of many of the pieces, explaining what she was going through at the time. Her hope is to help others who might be experiencing pain to understand they are not alone." ~ Cathy Lynn Brooks

When I was a kid and we had to read or write poetry in school, it did not resonate with me. Later as a secretively moody teen, I would write sappy or pretentious poetry to try to express my adolescent thoughts and feelings. It takes great bravery to bare one’s soul to the general public. 
When I came across Lillian’s book, at first I didn’t quite get the title, but once I started reading, I could see how any artistic expression, be it poetry or prose or music or drawing or painting, can be a great tool for self therapy for meditating on and sorting out one’s thoughts and feelings. 
Just like in class when the teacher encourages shy students to voice their questions because other students likely have the same question, this kind of very personal writing could also help other young people who likewise currently or previously have traumatic life experiences." ~ Gary Towne

...grabs your heart... stories seemed to pour out of her life with nothing held back, gave me inspiration and hope... made my heart shake, feeling things one seldom does." ~ Ronald Nussbeck, Author of: The Deception, Retribution and The Coin 


“… Her writings take the reader on an emotional journey. For every poem that strikes the heart and brings tears, there is another one that offers hope and promise for a tomorrow. I recommend this book of poetry to any survivor of abuse that is seeking to heal. Her writings will be their companion on the journey to healing. Her words will guide them and teach them along the way. …This book is excellent! ~ Hope Fields 


“Lillian drives it home… I felt like we were sisters sitting and talking about our lives. …The inner suffering revealed; yet gripping to life's blessings. …a heartfelt collection of life’s experiences.” ~ Mary Muhammad, author of: Echoes of an Era



“…a diverse collection of observations and emotions… moments of pain and longing… of simple joy and abiding love… a wonderful reminder that memories do not have to be grandiose in nature to be fulfilling… The emotional honesty of the writer is sure to strike a chord with many readers.” ~ Fallen Angel Reviews 


“…You’ll never look at poetry the same way again… beginning with her childhood trauma and leading into her journey of finding healing and self worth. You’ll feel her anguish, anger, and finally, her recovery as you travel with her page by page.” ~ Robor Writing & Editing E-newsletter 


“will resonate with anyone who has loved, lost love or experienced the hurt that is all part of finding the soul within us as we travel through this lifetime. Allow these words to connect you with the truth of who you are.” ~ Heaven Sent Spiritual E-zine (UK) 


"...a true poet's eye for detail, description and emotion carries the reader along on her journey." ~ Michele True, poet and editor of Write On Newsletter / host of the Practical Poetry online radio show


"...some of the most gripping poetry I've ever read. Since it was presented in time sequence, I felt glued to the screen, wanting to know what happened next, as if reading a biography or diary or novel!" ~ Sonja Gartner (Canada) - reader 

"...an emotional and sometimes haunting journey... outstanding collection of very personal and sometimes painful work has all the makings of a great read." ~ Tessa Crigger, Author of: I Hear Gaea's Tears 


"...Her poetry makes you think, painting a picture of that moment she is describing. One of my favorites, Survivor, reveals her inner strength with honesty. ...written with determination and reverence." ~ Marguerite Ashton, Author of: Taylini


"...by far the most outstanding book of poetry that I have read thus far. ...Like a blooming rose to completion you travel through her life as though it were your own, experiencing everything from fear, frustrations and memories - to love, purpose and self-acceptance. ...inspires hope, peace and strength in a troublesome world like I would not have imagined. ...can be read over and over again!" ~ CJ Wilkes, Author of: Daddy I Forgive You 


"...Those who like reading poetry that questions society and depicts true life experiences will enjoy this book of poetry." ~ Nadia Brown, Author of: Unscrambled Eggs


"...an absorbing and interesting collection of poetry, which displays the author's great depth of emotion. ...she so honestly expresses herself with skilled writing ability." ~ Debra Warren, Author of: Pausing to Catch My Breath 


"Lillian Brummet has survived the horrors of domestic violence and childhood sexual abuse. She knows what it is to struggle and overcome. She also knows what it is to share her secrets through her touching, revealing and inspirational poetry, written while on her personal journey to healing..." ~ A Celebration of Courage Newsletter 


"...yanked on the very strings of my heart. ...every poem, every verse, every word that she penned was a representation of my life. ...with each poem there is a marking of years which in turn shows growth, not only as a poetess, but as a young woman. As she pours out her life on paper, she is fighting her inner demons, learning to love herself... and through all the trials and tribulations, finds freedom. ...brought me to tears as I sobbed, remembering my years that have so swiftly past. ...an ideal role model for young women and men - her poems are filled with truth and honesty. ...Lillian writes with words as an artist paints with color - the raw emotions of love, hate, abuse, anger, friendship... I thoroughly enjoyed each and every poem and I strongly recommend her book of poetry!" ~ Ameasha Brown (Canada) - Book Reviewer 


"...courageously reveals more about her deepest feelings and intimate emotions that most people ever truly discover about themselves. ...on woman's journey toward self-realization... gives hope to everyone suffering, as did she. Lillian proclaims her personal victory over the darkness of her youth ...through the passionate intimacy of her poetry, she invites others to follow." ~DeVoll Reviews - Cheers E-zine 


"…When you open this book you step into a world of a pouring waterfall of emotions..." ~ John Thompson (www.publishedauthors.net/misterpoet) 

"…written while the author was still an adolescent, trying to come to terms with her internal angst as well as external factors. The remarkable trait about this poetry collection explores various poem-structures which isn't something common amongst modern poets." ~ Plastic Venus E-zine, Issue 4