“And Then You Were There” has received unanimous praise from readers, earning a perfect 5-star rating on Goodreads. Reviewers describe J.J. Doe’s collection of 36 poems as breathtaking, deeply moving, and beautifully crafted. The poems explore love’s transformative power through accessible yet emotionally profound language that resonates long after reading. Readers particularly appreciate the raw authenticity and vulnerability throughout the collection, noting how it celebrates healing, self-discovery, and emotional rebirth. The simple yet evocative writing style makes the work approachable while maintaining surprising depth. Reviewers recommend it as a soothing, comforting read – perfect for quiet reflection – that speaks to anyone who has experienced love or loss. The collection is praised for its universal appeal and its ability to capture both the intensity of once-in-a-lifetime connections and love’s role as a unifying force in our shared humanity.
“And Then You Were There isn’t just poetry – it’s a mirror to the moments that change us. Love. Loss. Memory. Growth.”
This isn’t a love story. It’s what love does to you. And Then You Were There – the debut poetry collection by J.J. Doe.
J.J. Doe’s poetry doesn’t ask for your attention. It earns your reflection.
Discover And Then You Were There—a quiet, powerful debut.
Highs
Brought together under sunny skies
My soul was set free when I looked into your eyes
He was listening and heard our cries
When we’re together, we reach such highs
Found happiness when you came my way
Peace filled my heart and faded the gray
All at once it became a brand-new day
Such sweet surrender for the price we pay
Caught up in the promise of tomorrow
Never again living with sadness or sorrow
Know what we’re building is solid, not hollow
No longer having to beg, steal, or borrow
Each of us facing turbulent times ahead
Rely on the loving words that we’ve said
Deny negative thoughts trying to enter your head
Count on Him to give us our daily bread
Home
Sailing through the straits of heartache
Trying to find a way back home
Rowing on until my arms break
Learning that there’s no safe zone
Sirens sweet songs being cast
Can’t be tempted by their allure
Winds are crashing by so fast
Salty sea spray, my vision blurred
Then out to sea, its turbulent waves
Where a squall has been brewing
Threatening my endless days
Suffering from my own doing
Guide me to the proper ways
Just can’t stand there stewing
Off now to an unknown land
She’s waiting there, it’s true
Faith the day is soon at hand
Trust, He’ll guide me through
Yet, I’ve crossed the burning sand
He’s shown me what to do
I’m so blessed that in the end
It’s led me safely here to you

