Almost immediately upon opening this book, one realizes they have in their hands poetry that is written by a highly qualified and talented writer. Diane Anjoue's poems unveil and explore a myriad of emotions and thoughts that we each share as human beings. Her intelligent and complex style of writing is extremely appealing, as it is coupled with a sincere understanding that even the simplest of moments can be utterly deep and meaningful. It is this simplicity mixed with complexity that gives her poetry a unique sense of "comfortable elegance."

She leaves safety,
no not in flight,
to petition refuge

Leaving censure behind
emigrant heart
he welcomes her as
love's ambassador;

~pg. 58 from the poem, "Sanctuary".

Love and passion often emerge as subjects in "Poetry Collection de Jolie-Laide: wanting to be lost within." These instances in time caught by Diane Anjoue's words, raze the reader with their entrancing excitement and the absolute purity of the sexuality they express, as in her poem "Arouse":

Pure whispers tease, fingers
trace unspoken words,
explorations into realms long
sequestered.
~pg. 39

In addition to poems that convey fond affection, this book contains pieces that are inspiring and uplifting such as, "Mianzi" a Chinese word that "roughly represents the inner dignity possessed by every human being." , according to the ever-helpful notes given by Diane Anjoue.

We all share the personal experiences expressed in poems such as "Crestfallen Foible", "Alone and Lonely" and "Ritual Cleansing" to name a few. Each of these poems are penned with Anjoue's individualized gift for writing elegant and meaningful poetry.

Diane Anjoue's poems have appeared in anthologies and journals due to the fact that she is a talented and experienced poet. "Poetry Collection de Jolie-Laide: wanting to be lost within" is her first book and is an absolute success, because it is a delightful and enjoyable book of poetry that has been exquisitely written.

~Brian Douthit
author of "Perfectly Said: when words become art"