A local resident, turned poet, is celebrating this Christmas with the launch of her first poetry book, Letters to the Rock.

The poems tell of a spiritual journey from reliance on worldly concerns through a time of conflict, to the healing process, and eventual trust in what she terms “the True Rock,” Jesus Christ.

Leonie Phoenix started writing poetry in late 2011, and although religious in nature, her style of writing is far from being staid. The poems are simple, startlingly honest and moving. As a keen artist, Ms Phoenix has also illustrated her poems, with charming charcoal drawings, including some surprises.

Leonie Phoenix is an avid believer that God can transform any situation to bring about good. She hopes that through sharing her experiences, she can help others find new meaning and purpose in their lives.

Local poet, Brenda Quin, co-author of That Still Small Voice, had the following to say about Letters to the Rock, “Fascinating and beautiful. I like the whole idea, and how it is expressed. It is excellent food for thought.” Brenda Quin.

Mrs Quin’s co-author, Peter Westin commented, “Thought-provoking… The writer has understood that the suffering endured now will lead to eventual true joy, if the individual uses it to empty him or herself of their worldly desires and replaces them with the in-dwelling Spirit of God, who refills us with the peace and love and mind of Christ.”

Colin Wilson, author of The Judith Code enjoyed the poems and found that they helped him with his own personal struggles. He added, “I got a deep understanding of the writer. She realises God doesn’t always answer her pleas and cries in the way she wants. But, no matter where this journey takes her, she will always win through. She has learnt to trust God. She praises Him and her heart is now on fire within God’s warmth.”

The book is now searchable on Amazon.com and AuthorHouse.co.uk