Category Archives: Book Reviews
Out of Wedlock
Out of Wedlock by Larry Lockridge masterfully weaves the intricate tale of Jess Freeman and his interactions with a diverse cast of characters over the span of two decades. This compelling narrative delves into the complex relationships among six individuals as they grapple with their pasts and strive for acceptance or liberation from their habits. Jess, a plastic surgeon, finds himself on an unintended voyage of self-discovery, attempting to reconcile the fragments of his childhood and comprehend the origins of his dissociative visions.
Lockridge expertly guides readers through a labyrinthine journey punctuated by moments of raw humor and unforeseen twists, all while inciting contemplation on life and the intricacies of human behavior. The plot is consistently captivating, as Out of Wedlock artfully balances the peculiar, the passionate, the enigmatic, and the emotional, all while maintaining an accessible and engaging tone. Readers will undoubtedly be enthralled by the novel’s unpredictable turns and thought-provoking scenarios.
Out of Wedlock not only raises profound questions about human identity and the interplay between nature and nurture, but it also serves as a cultural excursion. Set against the backdrops of Santa Fe and Greenwich Village, the novel is peppered with fascinating tidbits about the region’s culture, history, and notable figures. Although some references may prompt readers to pause for research, this educational aspect ultimately enriches the reading experience.
A particularly endearing feature of the novel is the inclusion of an illustration at the conclusion of each chapter. These artistic embellishments lend a nostalgic air to the narrative and enhance the overall storytelling. Out of Wedlock culminates in a satisfying denouement, resolving the individual arcs of each character and emphasizing the significance of authenticity amidst a world of reinvention.
Out of Wedlock comes highly recommended for readers who seek a narrative that is at once witty, startling, and provocative. Embrace the unexpected and prepare to be thoroughly entertained by this exceptional literary work.
Pages: 215 | ASIN: B0B6NTSHSW
What Is Life All About – Life Is About the Soul
In his thought-provoking book, What Is Life About? – Life Is About the Soul, author Alan Gill guides readers on a journey of self-discovery and purpose through his own experiences, insights, and personal encounters. Gill delves into various aspects of life, including religion, media, marriage, political history, and the nature of God. His straightforward writing style provides clarity and honesty, addressing challenging topics without sugarcoating the issues.
The book is divided into six parts, each focusing on critical aspects of life. Part one starts with discussions on living life differently, offering hope and positivity to readers. Gill’s emphasis on simple living and the importance of family, friends, and community resonates deeply. In addition, the inclusion of biblical verses throughout the text adds depth and context to the discussion.
From the first part to the sixth, Gill’s work is filled with information to inspire readers. One prominent subject in the book is exploring God’s existence, power, and relationship with humanity. Gill’s approach to discussing God is refreshing and accessible, enabling readers to feel a personal connection with the divine.
Gill’s diverse range of topics keeps readers engaged, with chapters that touch on related subjects but delve into a myriad of issues. One such captivating topic is death, which, although chilling, is both intriguing and important to discuss. By addressing both physical and spiritual death, Gill provides a well-rounded perspective on this often-avoided subject.
The simple yet profound text, historical stories, reference materials, and in-depth discussions make this a remarkable book. By engaging with Gill’s work, readers embark on a journey to seek the truth and find themselves. More than just an inspirational book, this transformative work encourages personal growth and improvement in all aspects of life.
Pages: 450 | ASIN : B0BVTBNCW5
Coachability: The Leadership Superpower
In “Coachability: The Leadership Superpower,” esteemed author Kevin D. Wilde provides a captivating exploration of leadership, coachability, and the secrets to outpacing the competition. Utilizing realistic scenarios to illustrate the significance of exceptional leadership in any context, Wilde offers readers an intimate glimpse into his life and the essence of the book as he introduces each topic.
Wilde’s authenticity shines throughout his writing, as he candidly shares not only his accomplishments but also his own missteps and imperfections. The book is structured in two primary sections: the first establishes the concept of coachability and its vital importance, while the second delves into the art of becoming a highly coachable leader.
Readers will be enthralled by the invaluable strategies imparted by Wilde, the insights gleaned from thorough research, and the compelling stories of various leaders featured in the book. With seven distinct strategies presented across the chapters, Wilde demonstrates how highly coachable leaders can capitalize on these approaches, making them particularly useful for those aspiring to leadership roles.
“Coachability: The Leadership Superpower” comprises seven well-crafted chapters, each elucidating different facets of coachability with utmost clarity. Chapter two stands out as particularly impactful, as Wilde expounds upon the transformative powers of coachability. This essential chapter guides readers through the often unfamiliar territory of coachability, providing a unique perspective that every aspiring leader should experience.
Wilde’s open-mindedness and expertise are evident as he introduces new concepts to readers, taking care to explain any specialized vocabulary or technical jargon. Through “Coachability: The Leadership Superpower,” readers will gain an understanding of how to seamlessly ascend the career ladder and effectively engage with a diverse array of individuals and groups.
The exceptional clarity and distinctiveness of Wilde’s writing make “Coachability: The Leadership Superpower” an especially enjoyable read. By imparting insights on navigating one’s career trajectory and building fruitful relationships with diverse individuals and organizations, this book proves to be an invaluable resource. Highly recommended for those seeking guidance on coaching and leadership, “Coachability: The Leadership Superpower” offers a comprehensive, all-encompassing approach to these crucial topics, ensuring that readers can easily grasp and internalize the key messages presented.
Pages: 162 | ASIN: B0BLT722YQ
Lifeline to a Soul
Lifeline to a Soul is an inspiring autobiographical account of John K. McLaughlin’s journey as an entrepreneur turned teacher. From his humble beginnings to his successful ventures in the business world, the author shares his experiences and lessons learned, culminating in his decision to become a teacher in a prison.
Through engaging prose, McLaughlin provides a vivid depiction of life in prison, sharing anecdotes about the incarcerated individuals he encountered. His unique perspective sheds light on the prison system, offering key information that many may not be aware of. He also provides insight into the harsh realities that prisoners endure, making this book a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the criminal justice system. More importantly, Lifeline to a Soul serves as a source of encouragement for anyone who has experienced setbacks, regardless of the cause. The author’s dedication to those who have broken the law and learned from their experiences sets the tone for the book, emphasizing its deeper purpose beyond simply recounting McLaughlin’s life story. The heart of the book lies in McLaughlin’s experiences as a teacher in a prison, where he imparted valuable life lessons to his students. Through their stories, he showcases the resilience and determination of those who have been able to overcome their circumstances and achieve great things.
Overall, Lifeline to a Soul is a refreshing departure from typical entrepreneurial books, offering a unique perspective on life and success. It is a must-read for anyone looking for inspiration and encouragement, regardless of their personal or professional circumstances.
Pages: 237 | ASIN: B0BX4ZVSF7
Goat Song
In Dean Gessie’s captivating poetry collection, Goat Song, readers are treated to twenty-three thought-provoking poems spread across just over eighty pages. Each poem varies in length, with only a handful confined to a single page. The anthology explores a diverse array of themes, ranging from intimate personal experiences to pressing international political issues such as race, aging, mental health, environmental concerns, and the evaluation of poetry prizes.
Gessie’s work demonstrates an impressive breadth of reference, seamlessly juxtaposing elements from Ancient Greece with contemporary topics like the recent pandemic and the vernacular of social media. The acknowledgments section highlights an impressive array of accolades garnered by the poems in this collection.
Readers are advised to have a dictionary and search engine at the ready, as Gessie’s extensive linguistic repertoire introduces terms like “ectothermic” and “Apocrypha” alongside onomatopoeic expressions and colloquialisms. The experience of feeling lost in the text is not uncommon, and one might even feel a touch of illiteracy when confronted with the author’s superlative language. However, the glowing endorsements on the back cover serve as a reminder that the challenge is part of the journey, and readers are encouraged to embrace their role as intrepid explorers in the realm of this literary titan.
Gessie’s work may be described as postmodern, but it also possesses a unique quality that defies easy categorization. The collection contains poems that resonate deeply with readers, such as “A Mother Mulls Her Son’s Self-Injuries,” which presents a litany of personal traumas in search of a catalyst. The opening poem, “[sic]stemic,” implores readers to distinguish between the poet and the persona, as the line “I take my black skin out for a walk” comes from a Caucasian writer. The collection also offers moments of tongue-in-cheek irony, eliciting wry smiles as song lyrics intermingle with introspective prose lines that ponder the actions of the living after one’s demise.
Dean Gessie’s Goat Song is a rich and rewarding collection of poetry that invites readers to traverse a vast landscape of themes and linguistic styles. Embark on this journey with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the unknown, and you will surely be captivated by the powerful voice and keen insights that await within its pages.
Pages: 83 | ASIN: B0BV4CK6HN
The Broken Bridge
The Broken Bridge by Iris March is a cozy mystery that captured my attention from the very first page. Following the story of Molly, the succulent sleuth as she tries to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of an out-of-town college student who visited her plant shop, the book promises a riveting read.
As the plot unfolds, the story delves deeper into the mystery, and Molly’s journey to find out what happened becomes all the more engaging. With the discovery of a gold earring and her cousin’s possible involvement, the twists and turns in the plot keep the reader hooked till the very end. Furthermore, the strange behavior of her editor adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story.
The Broken Bridge is a warm-hearted mystery that offers not only a thrilling read but also a charming and informative one. Author Iris March has done an excellent job in crafting an easy-to-read page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I think this is one of the best books I have read this year so far.
This intriguing crime fiction story is highly recommended for anyone who loves mystery novels with a heart, plants, and small-town friendships. The story is so well-written that it makes you feel like you are right in the middle of it all. I cannot wait for Molly and her friends to take on more cozy mysteries in my home state of Ohio.
Pages: 220 | ASIN: B09Y89HS5W
Hungry Trails
In Hungry Trails, author Maire Malone masterfully weaves an evocative tale of an Irish family’s desperate journey to escape the devastating effects of famine and disease. As they navigate the tumultuous waters of a world turned upside down, the Foley family is tested, their bonds of kinship and friendship strained to their limits. What awaits them across the ocean in the New World, however, remains uncertain—will the foreign shores offer them refuge, or will they merely exchange one set of hardships for another?
Narrated through the eyes of Julie Foley, the family’s spirited and inquisitive daughter, Hungry Trails presents a poignant coming-of-age story that explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and familial sacrifice. Despite the relentless adversity that befalls her loved ones, Julie remains steadfast in her pursuit of knowledge and her quest to forge her own path in life. Her unwavering dedication to her family and her unyielding optimism drives the narrative forward as readers eagerly anticipate whether Julie will ultimately find the fulfillment she seeks.
Set against the sweeping backdrop of historical events, Hungry Trails is a must-read for those who appreciate intricately crafted stories that transport the reader to another time and place. Malone’s exquisite prose and rich descriptions paint vivid images of the characters and their surroundings, immersing readers in the trials and tribulations of the Foley family. Accessible and engaging, Hungry Trails is a highly recommended read for discerning readers of all ages who are seeking an unforgettable literary journey.
Pages: 280 | ASIN: B0BPDXV3FH
The Surreal Adventures of Anthony Zen
The Surreal Adventures of Anthony Zen by Cameron A. Straughan is a collection of twenty-three chronological short stories about the day-to-day life of Anthony Zen. As illogical as this book may seem, the character is not fazed by the absurd adventures he has to face on a daily basis. Anthony is a man who runs to work without pants, owns a cat named Monty that rings, and finds this wacky behavior normal. This humorous tale of a man who lives his life to the fullest is wildly creative and entertaining. This eccentric story is full of shenanigans and outrageous creatures. It is a creative tale with backward logic that makes you laugh.
The book is brimming with wildly imaginative shenanigans and outrageous creatures that are sure to keep readers entertained. The writing is sophisticated and free of grammatical errors, making it a joy to read. Although I think the book would benefit from illustrations, the quality of the writing and the depth of the characters is enough to engage readers and take them on a journey through Anthony’s surreal world.
While most books with eccentric worlds have a set of rules that guide the reader, The Surreal Adventures of Anthony Zen does not. The author adds details seemingly at random, leaving readers in a state of anticipation, never knowing what to expect next. This unpredictability adds to the entertainment value and keeps readers in suspense.
The book’s structure is broken up in a way where each chapter functions as its own individual story, but the book consistently follows Anthony’s overall narrative. This non-traditional approach to storytelling is refreshing and makes the book stand out.
The Surreal Adventures of Anthony Zen is a well-written and creative book that offers a unique take on storytelling. It is certainly an enjoyable one that will leave readers both amused and engaged.
Pages: 191 | ASIN : B088LQF344
LITERARY TITAN 