why does love become abusive? and when does pain become a lesson? Soft Thorns Vol. II is the continuation of author Bridgett Devoue’s debut poetry collection Soft Thorns and picks up on her journey of self-discovery and seeking answers to the questions all of our souls inevitably ask. Similar to Vol. I, Soft Thorns Vol. II is a five-chapter collection of long- and short-form poetry accompanied by gorgeous illustrations, this time in collaboration with artist Laura Kline. Devoue is not known to shy away from the darkest corners of the human experience; in fact, she dives deep into those waters and allows the reader to explore the shared vulnerabilities that all of us face. Her poems touch on topics such as longing, lust, toxic love, self-destruction, confusing breakups, abuse, and overcoming it all through finding light in even the darkest of places.