Amazon Author Candice M. Martin Category:  Poetry Publisher: Publish America ISBN-10:  1424114942 Type: Non-Fiction Pages: 108 Copyright: January 2006 A 21 year collection of poetry that is written from the prospective of an abuse survivor, during each stage of abuse. From when the abuse began, to the flashbacks that still haunt her, Mrs. Martin's writings bring one to feel the same anger and emotions that she felt. You feel as if you are her at age 8, being abused, or the one who is now angered by each story you hear on the news about the next abused child that was ignored. Read along and be moved into action in "Petals of Life: A Survior's Writings". Walking With Angels In Loving Memory of Walter Mildfelt May 26, 2000 Sleep little angel- Precious child of mine. Dream little angel- All will be fine. Thank little angel- Thy Lord each day. Pray little angel- He'll show the way. Bless little angel- All who you meet. Love little angel- Until you sit at the Master's feet. ©2004 Candice Martin Excerpt ...My words may make you angry or even sad- But realize most of it comes from experiences I've had. This is and shall always be my writer's creed- It is my life on paper, for those who want to read. ***From The Writer's Creed*** ©2005 Candice Martin

At Long Last
At long last, author Candice M. Martin reveals the pain and suffering that lay hidden by suppression for many years. The depiction of such horror and despicable actions are brought forth in the poet's descriptive writings. Carefully hidden away for mant years, the pain finds its refuge penned on the pages of the author's recounting. The phrases this reader takes away from this work are as follows: Acceptance is a gentle gift as in The Change. The pain and fear are bound with chains within the soul as shown in Black Bird,pretend he is not there. Darkness Comes Forth, The Living Hell, Thunder,Lightening,Rain, Inner Secret...all hidden pain. Other secrets bore by the abused are; New Yet Old. Achild tossed about in foster care. No one heard or saw the abuse because of their fear to admit it. I could go on. Finally, I received hope through these works; Into God's Arms, Windows and Doors and The Measurement of Strength. Candice...to me you are not Invisible. The read flowed with impact. Thank you Robert Austin Meacham...author Mind's Diary

Re: Petals of Life: A Survivor’s Writings
I recently completed reading Petals of Life: A Survivor’s Writings, by Candice M. Martin. This author bravely and boldly opens the doors of her heart and exposes the tormenting memories of the physical and sexual abuse she experienced as a youth. Petals of Life: A Survivor’s Writings is a masterful and thought provoking “must read” for all. It offers a riveting reflection for parents, adolescents and even pre-teens that are mature enough to understand the delicate issues covered in this extraordinary piece of literary work. As you are gently escorted through the corridors of her heart, you sense the innocence of the faceless victim. Faceless because the victim can be anyone’s child (boy or girl), yours or mine. One cannot help but feel the anguish of a trust betrayed by a deeply loved family member; a family member who chooses to become a devouring monster for the sake of their own sexual appetite. Escape momentarily and find yourself walking through a new door of unbearable sickness. Candice manages to cover a wide spectrum of thematic elements very relevant in today's society such as child abuse, abortion, incurable sickness and even the quest for love, to name a few. In the midst of all life’s disasters, Candice demonstrates an amazing courage; the same courage which allows her to write in the first place. As she reaches out to her audience her words penetrate your soul and permeate a spirit of determination to fight. Petals of Life: A Survivor’s Writings promotes an enduring strength to overcome the odds in the midst of the pain and to always remember to love; especially love one's self. Do not pass this one up. For this book reflects the urgency to fight on with every breath we breath. Not just for us, but for the innocent little ones lying in waiting before they, too, become victims. Jamaris Bragg, Author A Distinct Difference

A Fabulous Book by an Awesome Lady
Very Seldom do I read poetry books but Petals of Life by author Candice M. Martin was an exception. As I read the synopsis on the back of her book it touched my heart and I ordered the book. I am definitely glad that I did. This book is an encouragement to those who have suffered abuse of any kind. Her poetry touched my heart as I could feel the pain of what she experienced. It takes a very special person to put into words their feelings, pains and life's experience to help others and Candice did an excellent job in accomplishing that task. I highly recommend Petals of Life to anyone as it will comfort you and strength you and renew your faith in mankind.

Tom Ward, author
The Enemy Within and
Outpost of Hell or Portals to Heaven