Blog Archives
The Secrets of the Shallows
Gloria Barnett’s The Secrets of the Shallows plunges readers into a mesmerizing underwater world brimming with life, adventure, and purpose. Set on the idyllic Caribbean island of Pontus, the story revolves around Lucy, a resourceful and spirited young diver who shares her love of the sea with her close-knit group of friends. Their paradise, however, is threatened when a corporation proposes building hotels to attract tourists. As tensions rise, unscrupulous individuals destroy turtle eggs on the beach to fabricate a narrative of marine life decline, further pushing the project forward. Refusing to stand by as their home and its fragile ecosystem face destruction, Lucy and her friends embark on a mission to protect what they love.
Barnett’s evocative storytelling stands out as one of its most compelling aspects. Vivid descriptions effortlessly transport readers into the underwater realm, capturing the fluid dance of light on water and the rich biodiversity of the ocean. The narrative structure is tight and engrossing, propelling the reader through Lucy’s challenges while celebrating her bond with her friends. Humor, camaraderie, and the power of solidarity infuse the story with warmth and relatability. Barnett’s passion for marine conservation is evident in every word, fostering empathy for sea creatures and a profound respect for nature without ever feeling preachy.
Adding to the book’s charm are supplementary features, including a photo guide to the marine species featured in the story and a detailed illustration of Lucy’s diving equipment. These thoughtful additions enrich the reading experience, making the book not only a compelling narrative but also an educational resource.
The illustrations, while beautifully executed, are relatively sparse. I feel that including them within the chapters could have enhanced the reader’s ability to visualize the marine creatures as they appear. However, their placement at the end provides convenient access for quick reference. Beyond the visuals, the book’s detailed world-building and character development shine. Lucy and her friends aren’t just brave adventurers—they embody teamwork, critical thinking, and proactive problem-solving. Their efforts to engage the mayor and propose peaceful solutions underscore the importance of collaboration and dialogue in tackling real-world challenges.
Gloria Barnett weaves a tale that is both entertaining and inspiring, leaving readers with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the ocean and the urgency of protecting it. The Secrets of the Shallows is a testament to the power of storytelling to ignite passion, educate, and empower, making it a must-read for nature lovers of all ages.
Pages: 139 | ASIN : B08JKP56TR
Unearthing Worlds- Book Two of the Keyholes Trilogy
Unearthing Worlds, by Tony Travis, takes readers on a gripping journey across dimensions as Brice and his team struggle to survive in a new, unfamiliar world while searching for a way home. The story opens with immediate tension, and a catastrophic asteroid collision leaves the protagonists stranded. Their leadership and resilience shine as they set up a makeshift camp, laying the foundation for their survival in a strange land. This book weaves together themes of survival, leadership, and the complexities of human emotion.
One thing that stood out to me about the writing was its immersive descriptions of survival challenges. For instance, when Brice discusses the consequences of staying on Niflheim with Florence, the rawness of their predicament is palpable. The camaraderie and friction among the team make the story feel real. Florence’s cautious scientific approach is a perfect foil to Brice’s leadership, emphasizing the need for balance between practicality and innovation. Her insistence on testing the honey and local plants before use is a highlight of pragmatic, logical, and much-needed voice of caution.
Another compelling aspect of the book is the emotional undercurrent. Allen’s regret about past choices and his deep-seated concern for his brother Brice are especially touching. These reflective passages add emotional weight, making it clear that the stakes are not just survival but reconnection and redemption. The exploration of sibling bonds against a backdrop of high-stakes science fiction was refreshing. In the end, the book delivers a satisfying mix of action, emotional depth, and speculative science fiction.
Unearthing Worlds, by Tony Travis, is a must-read for fans of survival stories with a psychological twist. If you enjoy meticulous world-building, layered characters, and the tension of being stranded in the unknown, this book is worth your time. While it’s the second in the trilogy, it works well enough as a standalone but truly shines when read in sequence. Recommended for lovers of grounded sci-fi and character-driven stories. Be prepared to crave the sequel by the time you reach the novel’s conclusion.
Pages: 317 | ASIN : B0DPG9476S
Zephyr Trails
Ellis Cady, a spirited young woman, navigates a world fraught with uncertainty and change. Zephyr Trails opens in Southern Missouri, where she endures the harsh winter of 1866 on her family’s ranch. As spring breathes life back into the land, tantalizing rumors suggest that her father, presumed lost, may still be alive. Simultaneously, Ellis becomes captivated by Jimmie, a dynamic performer in Levi Jack’s Wild West Exhibition, and grows intrigued by whispers of a groundbreaking messenger service. Torn between her burgeoning interests and an unfolding epidemic, she finds herself grappling with the challenge of choosing the right path forward.
Zephyr Trails, by Nicki Ehrlich, weaves a stirring narrative of frontier life, blending a vivid historical backdrop with the inner turmoil of a compelling protagonist. Drawing comparisons to the Little House on the Prairie series and the works of Louis L’Amour, the novel expertly balances sweeping adventure with introspective character development. Ehrlich’s prose stands out as a hallmark of the book. Her distinctive style alternates between poetic lyricism and sharp immediacy, pulling the reader seamlessly through Ellis’s journey. This fluctuation mirrors the protagonist’s inner contradictions: a deep love for the wild beauty of horses and expansive landscapes tempered by the constant awareness of the era’s many perils. Ellis is a multifaceted character, torn between the quest to uncover her father’s fate and the pursuit of her own ambitions. Yet, like many young people, her aspirations remain tantalizingly undefined. The colorful and engaging characters she encounters, such as the fiery and unpredictable Jimmie, offer glimpses of the possibilities that lie ahead. Ellis understands that the resolution of her father’s mystery is essential before she can fully embrace her own future.
The novel’s charm lies in its ability to resonate with younger readers, especially those enchanted by stories of horses and the untamed West. While danger looms on the horizon, the narrative’s buoyant tone ensures that it never becomes overly dire. Like Ellis herself, the story brims with vitality, imbuing even the gravest moments with a sense of resilience and hope.
Nicki Ehrlich’s Zephyr Trails offers an enthralling journey through the rugged frontier, anchored by a protagonist whose courage and curiosity make her an unforgettable guide. Readers will find themselves swept up in this vibrant tale, eager to follow Ellis’s path as it twists and turns through the uncertainties of the Wild West.
Pages: 321 | ASIN : B0D6X9DS4M
The Mouse, the Llama and the Sheep
Rayner Tapia delivers a delightful tale in The Mouse, the Llama and the Sheep, an engaging and heartwarming story. The narrative begins with Mouse enjoying a piece of cheese when he encounters a new friend, Llama. Through their conversation, Mouse learns that Farmer Joe has brought Llama to the farm for his wool. With a spark of determination, Mouse sets out to find the sheep, believing that Llama and Sheep would make great friends since they share something in common.
Mouse’s journey across the farm introduces readers to an endearing cast of characters, including Dog, Pig, and Cow, before finally reaching Sheep. In the end, all the farm animals gather to meet Llama, and together they form a wonderful bond, showcasing the true spirit of friendship. Tapia’s storytelling is both simple and captivating, making it easy for young readers to follow.
The illustrations evoke the nostalgia of Little Golden Books, offering a visual charm that harks back to childhood memories. Children will especially enjoy the whimsical portrayal of the farm animals, such as the chicken wearing heels, which adds a playful touch to the artwork. The author skillfully weaves in the unique sounds of each farm animal, adding an interactive and engaging element that young readers will adore.
The Mouse, the Llama and the Sheep, by Rayner Tapia, beautifully imparts an important lesson: the value of friendship transcends appearances. Young readers will be enchanted by the story’s warmth and its timeless message of inclusivity and kindness. I highly recommend Tapia’s touching tale to parents or teachers looking to add that next beloved selection to their libraries.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0BWYZF848
Extinction
Extinction, by Michael Simon, is a gripping science fiction thriller set in a future where humanity has expanded its reach into space, establishing colonies on distant moons like Europa. The story follows Lieutenant Ryan Braeder and his crew as they face life-threatening challenges, including an asteroid hurtling toward their colony and the political and interpersonal conflicts that arise within their community. Packed with intense action, layered characters, and thought-provoking dilemmas, the book explores themes of survival, leadership, and the resilience of the human spirit.
One thing that immediately stood out to me was Simon’s knack for creating a palpable sense of urgency. The vivid descriptions of the colony on Europa, juxtaposed against the cold, harsh beauty of space, made me feel like I was right there with the crew. Simon’s detailed account of the frantic repairs and the race against time kept my heart pounding. The writing here isn’t just visually engaging; it’s visceral. The character development is another highlight. Ryan’s struggle with past traumas adds depth to his role as a leader. He’s not just a hero in the traditional sense but a deeply flawed and human one. His flashbacks to a harrowing mission in Africa, where he lost comrades and civilians alike, are heartbreaking and explain the inner demons that drive his decisions. Yet, Simon doesn’t fall into the trap of making Ryan’s pain the only focus. His interactions with his crew, particularly the no-nonsense Captain Tracy and the eccentric engineer Gunner bring levity and camaraderie that balance the narrative.
What intrigued me most were the political undercurrents woven into the story. The civilian Board’s conflicts with the military crew over control of vital resources like the greenhouse provide a nuanced look at the challenges of governance in isolated environments. The debates felt grounded and real, reflecting the broader question of how power and responsibility are shared in high-stakes situations. The tension escalates as the Board’s agenda clashes with Ryan’s duty to protect the colony. I found myself frustrated on Ryan’s behalf during these moments but also appreciating how Simon painted even the antagonistic characters, like Governor Bordeaux, with shades of gray rather than simple villainy.
Extinction is a must-read for fans of character-driven sci-fi. It’s a book that will appeal to anyone who loves space exploration stories with a strong emotional core and thought-provoking ethical dilemmas. Simon’s writing shines with its blend of high-octane action, complex characters, and atmospheric world-building. This is a story that lingers, making you ponder the fragile line between extinction and survival.
ASIN : B0DJMSMMVZ
Albert the Donkey Solves a Mystery
Albert the Donkey Solves a Mystery is an endearing tale about friendship, problem-solving, and kindness. Set on a charming little farm, Albert the donkey and his loyal companion Eddie the dog embark on an adventure to help their bunny friend, Hoppy, solve the case of her missing carrots. The mystery unfolds with teamwork and a touch of suspense, eventually leading to a heartwarming resolution that emphasizes the values of honesty and cooperation.
The author’s depiction of Albert and Eddie’s friendship feels genuine and warm. Early in the story, the duo’s willingness to drop everything and help Hoppy shows their selflessness. The characters are easy to root for, and the sunny farm setting creates a cozy backdrop that draws you in. The story keeps the mystery light and straightforward, making it easy to follow and enjoyable for younger readers. The clues, like the carrot bits and paw prints, are presented clearly and lead smoothly to the resolution. While the scene where they find Remy surrounded by half-eaten carrots is humorously predictable, it adds a charming touch that fits perfectly with the story’s playful tone. This simplicity ensures that the narrative remains accessible and engaging for its target audience.
I also appreciated how the book sneaked in a moral lesson without feeling preachy. When Remy admits his mistake, Albert’s response is a masterclass in gentle leadership. The way the group works together to gather more carrots for Hoppy feels genuine and satisfying. It’s lovely how the story ends with the characters enjoying each other’s company as the sun sets—a perfect reminder of the joy found in friendship and forgiveness.
Albert the Donkey Solves a Mystery is a delightful read for children and adults who enjoy lighthearted tales with a message. It’s an ideal bedtime story, especially for kids who love animals or are beginning to understand the importance of kindness and teamwork. If you’re looking for a heartwarming story with a sprinkle of mystery, this one’s a keeper.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0DF9KHLXV
Variants of Our Future
Salvation Bleeding follows two people trapped who must pass through the Void in a desperate fight to retrieve the one artifact that can help save Utopia. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The Void is where all possible futures exist. We all make decisions every day that have the potential to alter the path our lives take. Imagine facing each decision—with every possible future presented before you that flows from moment to moment—knowing that even the slightest variation in the path that looks right, could lead to your demise. The message is that the reality in which we exist is of our own creation. It is the accumulation of all our past decisions that delivers us to this moment in time. Now… whenever now is. And the next decision we make will lead to another thousand variants of our future.
When in the Void, Reyne’s choices not only impact him, but also the woman he loves, Mithany, and the future of worlds; all the while facing a malevolent being within the Void that desires to consume his soul. The representation of Reyne in the Void reflects the choices we face in our own lives every day. Our choices, knowingly or unknowingly, will lead us down a path that will not only affect us individually but all those around us as well—especially the ones we love.
And then there’s the Soul Stone. The symbolic artifact that has the power to set everything right when the past has gone wrong. Maybe not always delivering the outcome we’d expect.
This is the final book in the Utopia Falling Saga. Were you able to achieve everything you wanted with the characters in this trilogy?
Absolutely! The characters and the plot were let off the leash in book 3, Salvation Bleeding. This is an epic fantasy adventure that, at times, intentionally veers into grimdark fantasy. Reyne’s struggle with his own inner demon could only have been resolved in the way it did because of everything that preceded it. Through all the twists and turns to get there, I believe Salvation Bleeding delivers a very satisfying conclusion that the readers will love.
Do you have a favorite scene in this installment? One that was especially satisfying to craft?
There are so many scenes in this book I really enjoyed writing that it’s hard to pick just one. This being the third book in the trilogy, the need to do any extensive world-building was absent and from the first page, the plot dives right into action and doesn’t let up. BUT…if I must pick only one scene, it has to be the chapter titled “Convergence Wakes” where everything comes together in a jaw-dropping climax.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently writing?
Thank you for this question. Yes, I am working on two projects. The first is an omnibus edition of the complete Utopia Falling Saga trilogy that I hope to have ready as an ebook by February 2025. The second is a standalone fantasy novel that imagines what if something or someone whom we all must face one day were to write a memoir of his/her experiences. I’m about 12,000 words into what I expect will be about 75,000 when it’s finished. With a bit of luck, I hope to tease out its release later this year.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Reyne must face the Void once more. But he knows an evil malevolence awaits him there, and it craves to devour his soul. If Reyne can survive the Void, if he can fend off his own inner demon, if he can kill the Devil’s Blacksmith, he will deliver Utopia its salvation, and return to Mithany, the woman he loves. … If he only had the Soul Stone! …or is it already too late?
Trials of Growth
In Old Paladins, a retired soldier is approached by a woman who needs his help avenging her family’s murder. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
In the early-mid 90s, I read Elizabeth Moon’s The Deed of Paksenarrion, and it has stayed with me a long time. It is a classic “hero’s journey” and bildungsroman in which we watch the heroine change greatly. The latter aspect, the growth of the character, interested me more. In Old Paladins, Sasha goes through a dramatic shift in character. And she’s not done. Her trials of growth have not ended- she hasn’t yet made a complete turn of the hero’s wheel.
Were you able to relate to your characters while writing them?
While I feel a strong connection to Gerard; because of age- I think- I can also relate to Sasha feelings of a missed life or happiness. I’ve wanted to write and publish for as long as I can remember, but circumstances prohibited that dream for quite some time.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Without giving too much away, the religious aspects, while minimum, were critical. Gerard is a man of faith, and it plays an intricate role in his world view and his personal quest. In addition to that, there are several scenes during Sasha’s training with Gerard that will play a later role in her future development, some of which are tied to the final novel in the planned series. Gerard seems haunted by his past … in the future, perhaps Sasha is haunted as well.
Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | LibraryThing | Amazon
Home is where the heart is, and for Sasha Martin that was a burned farm and dead parents. The Great War was over before she was born— there were treaties and agreements, they were supposed to be safe. But what the Imperium wanted it took, and with it, all that Sasha had known. Now, a decade later, having survived on charity and boiling hatred, she sees a chance to strike back at her enemies. There’s an old man that lives outside of town … some call him a war hero.
Gerard Appleby has been a man of war, a man of honor, and now a man alone for twenty years. But when a stubborn girl bent on vengeance shows up at his door demanding that he teach her the sword, he realizes that his days of warm beer and quiet guilt are over … and there is a chance to tie up one loose end, one last battle that he should have fought twenty years ago.
LITERARY TITAN 