The Flower Bed

"The Flower Bed is an epic story of one man’s life. It spans more than 60 years from 1971 when Louis O’Brien turned 10 in the harsh environment of the Midtown West area of New York City until, as Louis Montgomery, he is living on a substantial property in Lincolnshire, England. Click to read more" 

- Stephen Keim SC, Higgins Chambers

"Michael Springer’s debut novel, The Flower Bed, is an ambitious and emotionally charged thriller that weaves a complex tapestry of suspense, drama, and human struggle. Spanning decades and continents – from 1970s Manhattan to late-century Australia and a near-futuristic London in the 2030s – the novel explores themes of survival, love, betrayal, and the inescapable weight of one’s past. Springer’s strength lies in his vivid, poetic prose, which brings both settings and characters to life with striking clarity. Readers are drawn into a richly detailed world where every scene feels immersive, a quality praised by reviewers who note the book’s ability to “hold attention from the very beginning”. The characters, particularly protagonist Louis, are well-developed and compelling, with their inner demons and moral dilemmas driving the narrative forward. The plot is a rollercoaster of unexpected twists, described as a “cracker of a read” by Australian media figure Mike Carlton, keeping readers guessing until the final pages. Thematically, The Flower Bed tackles heavy questions: Can one escape their past? Is love a salve for the soul? Are we unique or merely echoes of those who came before? These philosophical undertones add depth, though at times, the sprawling scope can feel overwhelming, with a large cast of characters that demands careful attention. Some readers have noted the emotional intensity, with moments that “absolutely sobbed” at the story’s sadness and power, suggesting a trigger warning for sensitive topics might have been helpful. Pacing is generally well-handled, with suspense and mystery propelling the narrative, though a few readers might find the multiple timelines challenging to navigate. The novel’s emotional resonance and Springer’s ability to craft a page-turner make it a standout, with one reviewer calling it a “masterpiece” that feels like a classic. Its cinematic quality has sparked suggestions that it could translate well to film. Overall, The Flower Bed is a must-read for fans of dark, suspenseful thrillers with literary flair. Springer’s debut marks him as a talent to watch, and I look forward to his future works. Highly recommended for those who enjoy thought-provoking fiction with heart and grit. Rating: 4.5/5" 

- Michael Taylor

"So, what happens when you mix crime, corruption, love, despair, and a whole lot of existential dread? You get *The Flower Bed*—a book that basically asks, *Can we ever escape our past, or are we all just doomed to repeat the same mistakes like a broken record?* Spoiler: It’s messy, it’s deep, and it’s absolutely addicting. The characters? Oh, they’re a *wreck*—in the best way possible. Everyone’s battling inner demons, making morally questionable choices, and dragging you along for the ride. You’ll root for them, scream at them, and maybe even feel a little personally attacked. The plot is twisty, dark, and impossible to put down—just when you think you have a grip on things, Springer flips the script. And let’s talk about the writing—because *wow*. It’s poetic but sharp, like a love letter wrapped around a knife. Springer has this talent for making even the most brutal moments feel beautiful. The whole book is a wild mix of hope and despair, like watching flowers bloom in the middle of a disaster zone. But don’t expect some neatly tied-up happy ending. *The Flower Bed* leaves you with big, uncomfortable questions. Are we actually unique, or just bad copies of those before us? Can love fix our broken parts, or is it just a temporary band-aid? No easy answers, just a whole lot of *think about that before you sleep tonight*. Dark, thought-provoking, and slightly unsettling—in other words, a must-read." 

- Sneha, Goodreads

"Dark, thought-provoking, and deeply emotional, The Flower Bed is not just a novel—it’s an experience. Michael Springer takes readers on a gripping journey through the raw and often brutal realities of life, touching on themes of survival, corruption, love, and redemption. This book isn’t for the faint of heart. It dives deep into the human psyche, exploring inner demons, moral dilemmas, and the question of whether we can ever truly escape our past. Are we unique, or are we just following the patterns of those before us? The story challenges everything we think we know about human nature. Michael’s writing is sharp, immersive, and unafraid to go to dark places. The characters feel real—flawed, complex, and haunting. Their struggles with crime, greed, despair, and fleeting hope make for a powerful, unforgettable read. If you love books that make you think, feel, and question the world around you, The Flower Bed is a must-read. Be prepared—it will stick with you long after the last page." 

- Mansi Ramwani, Goodreads

"This was a well written story that was well paced, entertaining with excellent suspense and an unexpected ending. The author has a talent and the ability to tell the story and keep you in your toes, it was told in such a way that keeps you guessing making it a page turner; the author also did a great job by roping you in from the very beginning. This is a story that is full of Suspense, mystery, drama, twists, friendships, love and betrayal. It is a MUST read. The one thing I would say this book was missing, is a trigger warning page."

- Deborah, Goodreads

"Michael Springer is a literary journey that unveils the raw, often uncomfortable truths of the human experience. The book explores the contrasts between life's vibrant possibilities and its inevitable tragedies. Through its intricate storytelling, it immerses readers into a world where beauty and destruction coexist in a delicate balance, much like a flower blooming in a field tainted by decay. At its core, this novel is a profound meditation on survival—both in the physical and emotional realms. It tackles the question of whether we can truly escape the shadows of our past, or if we are forever shaped by them. Springer doesn't provide easy answers, instead offering a compelling exploration of the human psyche, where corruption and goodness intertwine like vines in a garden, neither fully thriving without the other. The characters in *The Flower Bed* are intricately woven into a tapestry of complexity, each embodying different facets of humanity—love, fear, guilt, and hope. Their struggles with addiction, despair, and redemption become universal, reflecting the broader battle between light and darkness in the world. Springer’s portrayal of love as a force of healing resonates deeply, acting as a balm for the soul while never offering a false sense of serenity. This book invites readers to reflect on their own lives. It’s a beautiful yet challenging tale that will leave you questioning, pondering, and ultimately appreciating the intricate, unpredictable journey of being human. *The Flower Bed* is a masterpiece of emotional depth, a must-read for those searching for meaning in a complex world."

- Ronak, Goodreads

"Michael Springer’s The Flower Bed is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores the intricacies of human nature, survival, and redemption. This isn’t just a story it’s a deep dive into the human psyche, filled with profound philosophical questions about identity, fate, and the ongoing battle between darkness and hope. From the very first page, Springer draws readers into a world that is both gritty and lyrical. The novel confronts the harsh realities of life prejudice, crime, addiction, and personal demons while also presenting moments of beauty, love, and resilience. Each character is well-developed, with their struggles and victories making them feel incredibly authentic. What sets The Flower Bed apart is its ability to engage the reader’s mind while stirring strong emotions. The writing is immersive, pulling you into its intricate narrative and leaving you pondering its deeper themes long after you’ve finished the last chapter. If you’re in search of a novel that is both exciting and deeply reflective, The Flower Bed is essential reading. It’s a journey into the complexities of the human soul one that will linger with you long after you’ve turned the final page. Happy reading" 

- Abhay Singh, Goodreads

"Michael Springer is a masterful exploration of the human condition, rich with emotional depth and philosophical musings. At its heart, the book is a reflection on survival, not just against external forces, but against the haunting shadows of one’s past. It delves into the complexity of human relationships, fraught with love, pain, and regret, and asks whether we can ever truly escape the weight of who we’ve been. The novel’s characters are beautifully layered, each struggling with their own demons—addiction, guilt, or despair—but they are also defined by a longing for redemption and renewal. Springer paints them with a delicate balance of fragility and strength, reminding readers that healing is a messy, nonlinear journey. Through the imagery of a flower bed, the novel subtly explores themes of growth and transformation. Are we defined by the scars of our past, or do we have the power to blossom into something new? *The Flower Bed* leaves readers contemplating life’s most difficult questions, long after they’ve turned the final page, offering both sorrow and hope in equal measure. It’s a book that stirs the soul and lingers in the heart."

- Tina, Goodreads

"Michael Springer’s *The Flower Bed* is an intricate dance between light and darkness, a narrative that does not shy away from the complexities of human nature. The story grips you from the first page, leading you through a labyrinth of pain, longing, and self-discovery. With themes of survival and redemption, the novel challenges us to question our own existence—are we trapped by the weight of our past, or can we break free and bloom anew? Each character in the book feels real, crafted with depth and vulnerability. Springer doesn’t offer easy answers but instead invites readers to dive into their own reflections about love, guilt, and the choices that shape our lives. The author explores the fragility of hope, the quiet war within, and the undeniable need for connection. The language is poignant and evocative, pulling you deeper into the emotional landscape of the story. *The Flower Bed* is not just a book about survival; it’s a reminder that even amid life's harshest realities, we have the capacity for growth and transformation. It’s a journey that will stay with you long after the final page, forever lingering in your thoughts." 

- Mk, Goodreads

"Michael Springer's "The Flower Bed" is a dark and exciting thriller that's hard to put down. It's got a lot of hidden secrets and twists that will keep you guessing until the very end. The characters are interesting, and the story is told in a way that really draws you in. It's a great choice if you enjoy suspenseful stories that leave a lasting impression. I have fifty pages left to read, and I don't want it to end - it's so very good! Love it !!"

- Claudine Kasselis, Goodreads

“The Flower Bed by Michael Springer is an intense, thought-provoking journey into the depths of human nature. It paints a dark yet poetic picture of survival, where characters grapple with crime, greed, despair, and love. The novel questions whether we are truly unique individuals or merely echoes of those who came before us. Each page is laced with tension, challenging the reader to reflect on morality, redemption, and the inescapability of the past. The writing is raw and immersive, making it impossible to look away from the harsh realities it unveils. At its heart, this book is an exploration of the human soul—its demons, its capacity for love, and the fragile hope that keeps it going. The characters are deeply flawed yet painfully real, struggling to break free from the chains of their own pasts. The narrative shifts between moments of brutal honesty and poetic introspection, leaving the reader questioning their own beliefs about fate and free will. Can love truly heal? Or are some wounds too deep to ever close? The Flower Bed is not just a book; it’s an experience. It grips you, unsettles you, and refuses to be forgotten. With its intricate storytelling and emotionally charged themes, it forces us to confront the uncomfortable truths of life. If you’re looking for a novel that challenges your intellect and stirs your emotions, this one is a must-read.”

– Bookswithdiya, Goodreads

“Michael Springer’s *The Flower Bed* is a haunting and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complexities of human existence, exploring themes of survival, redemption, and the enduring struggle between light and darkness within us all. With its raw portrayal of life’s harshest realities and its unflinching examination of the human psyche, this book is a powerful journey that will challenge, unsettle, and ultimately move you. The novel’s central question—can a person ever escape their past?—serves as the foundation for a narrative that weaves together the lives of characters grappling with prejudice, greed, crime, love, and despair. Springer’s storytelling is both gritty and poetic, painting a vivid picture of a world where corruption and malignancy often overshadow hope. Yet, amidst the darkness, there are glimmers of light—moments of love, connection, and the possibility of redemption. What makes *The Flower Bed* so compelling is its ability to balance stark realism with profound philosophical inquiry. The characters are richly drawn, each one a unique “flower” in the garden of humanity, yet bound by shared struggles and inner demons. Springer’s exploration of their lives is unflinching, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society and themselves. The novel’s structure, which intertwines multiple perspectives and timelines, adds layers of complexity, making the story feel expansive and deeply interconnected. Springer’s prose is evocative and immersive, capturing the beauty and brutality of life with equal skill. His descriptions of the characters’ inner turmoil are particularly striking, offering a window into the darkest corners of the human mind. The recurring motif of the flower bed serves as a powerful metaphor for the fragility and resilience of the human spirit, as well as the ways in which we are shaped by our environment and experiences. While the novel’s themes are heavy, there is an underlying sense of hope that permeates the narrative. Springer doesn’t shy away from the pain and despair of his characters, but he also leaves room for growth, transformation, and the possibility of healing. This balance between darkness and light is what makes *The Flower Bed* so impactful. *The Flower Bed* is a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. It’s a story that challenges your intellect, stirs your emotions, and leaves you with lingering questions about life, love, and the human condition. Michael Springer has crafted a novel that is as thought-provoking as it is unforgettable, a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of existence.”

– Booksforbadal, Goodreads

"The Flower Bed by Michael Springer is an intense, thought-provoking journey into the depths of human nature. It paints a dark yet poetic picture of survival, where characters grapple with crime, greed, despair, and love. The novel questions whether we are truly unique individuals or merely echoes of those who came before us. Each page is laced with tension, challenging the reader to reflect on morality, redemption, and the inescapability of the past. The writing is raw and immersive, making it impossible to look away from the harsh realities it unveils. At its heart, this book is an exploration of the human soul-its demons , its capacity for love, and the fragile hope that keeps it going. The characters are deeply flawed yet painfully real, struggling to break free from the chains of their own pasts. The narrative shifts between moments of brutal honesty and poetic introspection, leaving the reader questioning their own beliefs about fate and free will. Can love truly heal Or are some wounds too deep to ever close? The Flower Bed is not just a book; it's an experience. It grips you, unsettles you, and refuses to be forgotten. With its intricate storytelling and emotionally charged themes, it forces us to confront the uncomfortable truths of life. If you're looking for a novel that challenges your intellect and stirs your emotions, this one is a must-read. Happy Reading…” 

- diya980007, Bookstagram Influencer

“Michael Springer's The Flower Bed is a haunting and deeply introspective novel that pulls readers into the darkest recesses of the human soul. This book is not just a story-it's an exploration of survival, identity, and the lingering grip of the past. From the very first page, Springer poses powerful questions: Can we ever truly escape our past? Are we unique individuals, or mere echoes of those who came before us? The novel doesn't offer easy answers, but it compels readers to confront these existential dilemmas in the most gripping way possible. The narrative follows characters who are beautifully flawed-each battling their own demons while navigating a world rife with crime, greed, love, and despair. Their journeys are raw and unfiltered, forcing us to see humanity in all its brokenness and resilience. As you turn the pages, you'll feel the weight of their struggles, their desperate search for redemption, and the constant tension between hope and hopelessness. Springer's writing is breathtaking-both poetic and sharp, like a blade wrapped in silk. His descriptions are vivid, making every scene feel immersive, every emotion tangible. The novel's structure, shifting between perspectives and timelines, adds depth, making it impossible to put down. Just when you think you have a grasp on the story, Springer flips the narrative, leaving you questioning everything. One of the most striking aspects of The Flower Bed is its exploration of human nature. It doesn't shy away from the uncomfortable truths about society­ its corruption, its prejudices, and its relentless cycles. Yet, amidst the darkness, there are moments of beauty-love, connection, and the ever-present possibility of redemption. The recurring metaphor of the flower bed is particularly powerful, symbolizing both the fragility and endurance of the human spirit. This is not a lighthearted read, nor is it one that ties everything up neatly. Instead, The Flower Bed lingers in your mind long after the final page, leaving you with lingering questions about fate, choice, and whether love can ever truly heal our wounds.” 

- Jithendra, Goodreads

"If you're an avid reader and like an emotional and exciting read ! ! Michael Springer's "The Flower Bed" is a dark and exciting thriller that's hard to put down. It's got a lot of hidden secrets and twists that will keep you guessing until the very end. The characters are interesting, and the story is told in a way that really draws you in. It's a great choice if you enjoy suspenseful stories that leave a lasting impression. I have fifty pages left to read, and I don't want it to end - it's so very good !” 

- Glen McCarthy, Amazon

“This is a poignant and evocative novel that takes readers deep into the tangled roots of human struggle and the delicate potential for redemption. Michael Springer weaves a narrative filled with vivid, often painful glimpses into a world where hope and despair coexist. The novel is a metaphorical garden, where each character is a flower struggling to bloom amidst the harshness of life's challenges. What sets this book apart is its emotional depth. It doesn't merely skim the surface of its themes­greed, addiction, guilt, and love-but instead dives into their complex, sometimes messy realities. Each page feels like an intimate exploration of the human condition, inviting readers to reflect on their own battles and triumphs. The novel's central questions-Can we escape our past? Can love truly heal us?-are woven through the narrative like a quiet thread, offering no easy answers but demanding deep introspection. *The Flower Bed* challenges us to consider whether we are forever prisoners of our inner demons or capable of growth, even after the darkest of storms. It's a beautifully haunting journey, leaving readers with more questions than answers, yet somehow more at peace with the uncertainty." 

- novelbook57, Bookstagram

“Michael Springer's *The Flower Bed* is a haunting and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complexities of human existence, exploring themes of survival, redemption, and the enduring struggle between light and darkness within us all. With its raw portrayal of life's harshest realities and its unflinching examination of the human psyche, this book is a powerful journey that will challenge, unsettle, and ultimately move you. The novel's central question-can a person ever escape their past?-serves as the foundation for a narrative that weaves together the lives of characters grappling with prejudice, greed, crime, love, and despair. Springer's storytelling is both gritty and poetic, painting a vivid picture of a world where corruption and malignancy often overshadow hope. Yet, amidst the darkness, there are glimmers of light -moments of love, connection, and the possibility of redemption.” - Booksforbadal's, Goodreads

“So, what happens when you mix crime, corruption, love, despair, and a whole lot of existential dread? You get *The Flower Bed*-a book that basically asks, *Can we ever escape our past, or are we all just doomed to repeat the same mistakes like a broken record?* Spoiler: It's messy, it's deep, and it's absolutely addicting. The characters? Oh, they're a *wreck*-in the best way possible. Everyone's battling inner demons, making morally questionable choices, and dragging you along for the ride. You'll root for them, scream at them, and maybe even feel a little personally attacked. The plot is twisty, dark, and impossible to put down-just when you think you have a grip on things, Springer flips the script. And let's talk about the writing-because *wow*. It's poetic but sharp, like a love letter wrapped around a knife. Springer has this talent for making even the most brutal moments feel beautiful. The whole book is a wild mix of hope and despair, like watching flowers bloom in the middle of a disaster zone. *The Flower Bed* leaves you with big, uncomfortable questions. Are we actually unique, or just bad copies of those before us? Can love fix our broken parts, or is it just a temporary band-aid? No easy answers, just a whole lot of *think about that before you sleep tonight*. Dark, thought-provoking, and slightly unsettling-in other words, a must-read.” 

– snehasbookshelf, Bookstsgram

"Dark, thought-provoking, and deeply emotional, The Flower Bed is not just a novel-it's an experience. Michael Springer takes readers on a gripping journey through the raw and often brutal realities of life, touching on themes of survival, corruption, love, and redemption. This book isn't for the faint of heart. It dives deep into the human psyche, exploring inner demons, moral dilemmas, and the question of whether we can ever truly escape our past. Are we unique, or are we just following the patterns of those before us? The story challenges everything we think we know about human nature. Michael's writing is sharp, immersive, and unafraid to go to dark places. The characters feel real-flawed, complex, and haunting. Their struggles with crime, greed, despair, and fleeting hope make for a powerful, unforgettable read. If you love books that make you think, feel, and question the world around you, The Flower Bed is a must-read. Be prepared-it will stick with you long after the last page. A hauntingly beautiful novel that stays with you. Highly recommended!” 

– whatmansireads, Bookstagram

"A strong and compelling story about a young man Louis, raised motherless in New York by a criminal and uncaring father - a hit man and murderer - that created inner demons as he escaped his father and his gang. He moved across the world first to Australia in his escape creating deep connections with others, seeking wealth, love and meaning intertwined with greed, depression and sometimes violence. We all have these inner demons that we rarely fully reveal as we do what we must in our daily lives. A sometimes dark and foreboding saga with twists and turns, describing successes, failures, untimely deaths and finally, absolution, during a redemption that brings the book's title to life. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and found it hard to put down, although at times I needed a pause as events twisted badly and I needed to escape the foreboding consequences until curiosity impelled me back." 

- Donald, Booktopia

"Michael Springer is destined to become one of Australia's great novelists. Michael Springer's novel THE FLOWER BED is a cracker of a read that I enjoyed immensely. The plot is magnificent and he brings out his characters splendidly. You will not regret the few dollars you spend buying it as you will find it to be of genuine value." 

- Everald Compton, Amazon

"Michael Springer is to be congratulated on an exceptional first novel that holds the reader through the twists and unexpected turns of an intriguing, powerful plot. The Flower Bed is at once an intergenerational family drama and an absorbing study of the interaction between childhood hardship, circumstance, and character. And all with a nuanced understanding of mental health struggles and their complexities that illuminate and humanise the central character's misadventures. This has all the makings of a ripping TV drama series and I hope some enterprising filmmaker gets onto it. Thoroughly recommended - two very enthusiastic thumbs up!" 

- Prof Jenny Hocking

"This was a well written story that was well paced, entertaining with excellent suspense and an unexpected ending. The author has a talent and the ability to tell the story and keep you in your toes, it was told in such a way that keeps you guessing making it a page turner; the author also did a great job by roping you in from the very beginning. This is a story that is full of suspense, mystery, drama, twists, friendships, love and betrayal. It is a MUST read. The one thing I would say this book was missing, is a trigger warning page."

- Debbie

"Hello Michael, I was just looking if there was a way to message you. I absolutely loved your novel and the journey of Louis M. You have an incredible story telling talent. Thank you!"  

- Mitch Elsworthy, U.S.A.

"Another Terrific Australian author definitely worth reading..."

- Suzi Hammond

"Honestly, I'm only halfway through but already recommending "The Flower Bed"!" 

- Di J Fox-Scott

"Can we escape the sins of our fathers? Are we doomed to repeat them? These are the questions Michael Springer asks in his ambitious first novel, "The Flower Bed". Bravo @MichaelSpring17 - I thoroughly enjoyed your sweeping innocence-to­-experience tale." 

- Simon Cleary

“Hello Michael. It's Fay Nolan here from Everald's dinner at Tattersalls Club. I have just this moment finished reading The Flower Bed. My goodness, what an amazing book! I do admire your gifts of writing and imagination. There were so many characters in the story, and yet I never lost track of any one of them. You expressed so much emotion, hatred, fear, and most of all, love, through your words, it must have been a very exhausting book to write. Thank you for the privilege of reading it, and thank you again for your company at dinner. Warm regards" 

- Fay Nolan

"Michael Springer’s novel, The Flower Bed, is an ambitious, sprawling epic that leads its reader lustily through time and space, from the tough waterfront streets of 1970’s Manhattan to late-century Australia, and ultimately to the near-future of London in the 2030s. It tells the eventful, often tragic tale of its damaged protagonist, Louis O’Brien, a gifted but neglected young man who barely survives a violent, abusive upbringing in New York’s menacing Irish-American underworld, only to find its dark legacy following him across the globe, casting long shadows over his ensuing life. Part rollicking adventure saga and part touching morality tale, the Flower Bed explores its themes of tragedy, loss and enlightenment, with tenderness, insight and a gentle optimism that ultimately affirms the sometimes surprising resilience of the human spirit. An absorbing read." 

- Chris Nyst, Author

"Exceptional First Novel. As a former educator, I started my career teaching English literature for 20 years. Amidst the standard required "classics", I always added modern authors to the year's required reading lists. If I were still teaching those classes and students, I would add Michael Springer's 'The Flower Bed' as a required read for the year. Very few novels have all these strengths overlapping at the same time: intricate, surprising plot turns; characters who are not caricatures; a narrative that reaches beyond the book jacket's message, and some unique surprise ... something that the author did differently than anyone else. Michael's level of detail, his literal juggling of plot twists and turns, his recircling attention on Louis while veering in multiples of other directions ... just, just superb. I would choose 'The Flower Bed as required reading just for its demonstration of a writer's craft." 

- T. Romack. Reviewed in the United States on October 1, 2024

"Looking for your next read? Well here it is and no need to thank me! Michael Springer has exploded out of the blocks as a first time novelist with this immensely satisfying crime adventure.  Strap yourself in for an epic journey around the globe and emotional roller coaster as Springer's masterful descriptive text ensures you experience an incredible life lived through the eyes of louis and the myriad of complex characters he encounters along the way. It's heartbreaking at times with plot twists that come from nowhere and keep you on the edge of your seat and I had to remind myself to breathe on more than one occasion! So great to see an Aussie author taking in the world...." 

- Ian Stenlake

"Michael Springer's book the flower bed is the boof to read or gift this year. From chapter 1 where we meet young Louis who suffers horribly from his fathers ill treatment you are on a journey to know more. It is captivating and beautifully written and a credit to Michael for his first novel after some very challenging years. You will find it hard to put this book down once you start reading. definitely ***** from me." 

- Helen Cummings

"Best Novel Ever Written. The Flower Bed blends the genres of psychological thriller, suspense, crime and love story, and the author makes the characters relatable, complex and intriguing. I could not put the book down. The suspense engages you until the final word. Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend" 

- Pete from Manhattan, New York

"I have your book, Michael, and am enjoying it!" - "On ya, Michael, and good luck with it. It is a fine book." 

- Peter FitzSimons

"The Flower Bed is a cracking read, a roller coaster of highs and lows and highs again, a tale told with flair and verve." 

- Mike Carlton - One of Australia's best-known media figures in radio, television and newspapers.

"I second this review. I was so invested in Louis' life from start to finish - a terrific read! Huge congratulations" 

- Nicola Shew

"I have just started reading Michael Springer's first novel - it is beautifully written and you really get a feel for the characters." 

- Shaun Maybury Rogers

"I've just finished reading The Flower Bed!! what an amazing story, so sad and powerful. I absolutely sobbed in parts, it would make a great movie. Michael, I loved it and congratulations for such an incredible achievement and extremely well written." 

- Josie Murgadas

"The Flower Bed by Mr. Springer is an exceptional novel that held my attention from the very beginning. Mr. Springer has a talent for creating a richly detailed world, with vivid, poetic descriptions that make every scene feel real. The characters are well-developed and compelling. The themes are deep adding substance to the story without giving too much away. I highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates well-crafted literature, and I'm looking forward to seeing what Mr. Springer comes out with next!" 

- Aaron's review - Goodreads

"I loved every minute absorbed reading this book. A book that made me loose myself in its intrigue" 

- Denise - The Nile

"Great read Michael. 'The Flower Bed' brings the characters to life and your vivid descriptions drew me into a world of unexpected twists that keep me eagerly turning the pages. if you appreciate well-crafted literature, this book is a must read!"

 - Adventurous-Rub-2736 - Reddit

"Words that create a true vision 'The Flower Bed' brings the characters to life and Springer’s vivid descriptions drew me into a world of unexpected twists that keep me eagerly turning the pages. If you appreciate well-crafted literature, this book is a must-read!" 

- Clay - Amazon & Booktopia

"To say this is a superb novel would be an injustice to the author's writing skills. It kept me on the edge of my seat as I read it. This book is my favorite I have read, and I recommend it." 

- Peter - Goodreads

“Have been busily reading quite a few books lately & I'm about half way through Michael Spring's debut novel The Flower Bed. My god what a story. This is for lovers of fantasy and deeply immersive fiction, it's very reminiscent of Homer's Odyssey and The Hobbit. Michael is one of our best political commentators who strives for justice in everything. He normally practices law, but here he's really gone into the deep-end of fiction and done a fantastic job.” - Ronni Salt

“A fantastic read. Highly recommend. The Flower Bed is an enthralling read from start to finish. A beautifully written and highly descriptive crime adventure that takes you around the world with fascinating and complex characters. An emotional rollercoaster with surprises and twists galore. I loved this book. Highly recommend.” 

- Susan Logan