Blog Archives
Slinky Dinky Doo and the Razzle Dazzle Sprinkles
Slinky Dinky Doo and the Razzle Dazzle Sprinkles is a sweet and adventurous picture book about an adorable dachshund, Slinky, and his human friends, Evan and Emily. Together, they set out to solve a sprinkle mystery that threatens to ruin their favorite cupcakery’s big day. With determination and Slinky’s trusty nose, the trio explores their town, meeting charming locals and discovering that the missing sprinkles were hiding in plain sight all along.
This children’s book had me hooked from the start with its whimsical charm. Slinky’s personality shines bright, just like the book’s illustrations. The writing pulls you in with its playful energy and keeps you cheering for Slinky and his friends. The part where Slinky and his sneeze that sent sprinkles flying had me laughing.
What really stood out for me was the clever way the story teaches problem-solving and teamwork. When the florist and ice cream parlor turn out to be dead ends, the group doesn’t give up. Instead, they think of new leads and keep searching. Slinky’s sharp nose saves the day, and I loved how everyone came together to celebrate his efforts with a cupcake made just for him.
The illustrations are absolutely delightful. Mariana Ostanik did such a lovely job bringing Slinky’s world to life. The cobblestone streets, the colorful sprinkles, and Slinky’s adorable expressions all add so much warmth to the story. My favorite illustration was the one where Slinky is dreaming of playing under a cupcake rainbow—it’s just too cute to handle!
I’d recommend this book to anyone with young kids or even dog lovers who want a feel-good story to share. It’s perfect for bedtime or a cozy story time on the couch. Slinky’s adventure is fun, lighthearted, and full of heart.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DQLS2V4M
Stone of Hope, Book 4 Stones of Iona
Stone of Hope, by Margaret Izard, masterfully blends romance, history, and fantasy into an enthralling narrative that sweeps readers across the evocative landscapes of Scotland and Egypt. Dominic DeVolt, drawn by the mystical power of the Eye of Ra, finds himself entangled in the life of Moira White, an archaeologist whose brilliance and beauty transcend the ordinary. With his niece and nephew’s lives at stake, Dominic plunges into Moira’s excavation, a place where ancient secrets meet modern treachery. For Moira, Dominic is a puzzle—an enigmatic figure who might bring salvation or destruction. Together, they face mystical forces and personal doubts, testing whether love can bridge the vast chasm between their worlds.
The novel’s richly imagined settings elevate the story, transforming them into living, breathing elements of the narrative. Scotland’s misty hills and Egypt’s sun-drenched ruins resonate with a sense of wonder and danger, adding depth to every scene. These locations are more than mere scenery; they enhance the storytelling, immersing readers in a vibrant atmosphere that lingers long after the pages turn. Dominic and Moira’s chemistry is undeniable, igniting the heart of the novel. Their journey through love, betrayal, and sacrifice explores universal themes of trust and redemption, drawing readers deeply into their emotional struggles.
The element of time travel adds layers of complexity, intensifying the stakes and offering new dimensions to their characters. This interplay of personal growth and high-stakes drama demonstrates Margaret Izard’s skill in crafting intricate relationships that captivate and resonate. Fantastical elements weave seamlessly into the plot, enriching the story without overshadowing its central romance. Izard’s deft integration of folklore and fantasy into historical and contemporary contexts creates a dynamic, multifaceted narrative. The result is a tapestry that sparkles with magic while remaining grounded in its characters’ heartfelt struggles and triumphs.
Stone of Hope concludes with a sense of fulfillment, yet it leaves the door ajar for future adventures. This balanced resolution offers closure while tantalizing readers with the promise of more, a narrative approach that ensures the story remains vivid in their imaginations. Hope and suspense intertwine, ensuring the tale’s impact lingers well beyond the final chapter. For readers seeking a story where love transcends time and the boundaries of past and present collide in breathtaking ways, Stone of Hope offers an unforgettable escape. Margaret Izard’s expert storytelling and genre-blending prowess make this a must-read for fans of historical fantasy and romance.
Pages: 187 | ASIN : B0DLBMNKHG
Old Paladins
Old Paladins, by R.L. Dean, is a gripping tale of redemption, vengeance, and forgiveness, centered on two unforgettable characters. Gerard Appleby, a retired soldier burdened by the scars of war, is thrust back into the fray when Sasha Martin arrives at his doorstep. Consumed by rage and intent on avenging her family’s murder, Sasha demands Gerard teach her the art of the sword, setting them both on a journey that intertwines faith, loss, and healing.
Dean excels at character development, crafting layered protagonists whose past traumas shape their every decision. Gerard’s weariness contrasts sharply with Sasha’s fiery determination, yet their shared pain creates a compelling dynamic that drives the narrative. The meticulous attention to detail in each scene draws readers into a vividly rendered world, making it easy to imagine the landscapes and trials the characters face as they pursue their quests for justice and closure. The pacing is masterful, balancing moments of intense, visceral action with reflective interludes that explore the deeper themes of duty and faith. These quieter moments resonate just as powerfully as the high-stakes battles, offering a nuanced portrayal of what it means to confront the demons of the past.
This story leaves a lasting impression. Rarely does a book inspire the urge to scour an author’s pages in search of a sequel—but Old Paladins did just that. Although no follow-up exists, the depth of the characters makes parting with them feel almost unbearable. The ending, steeped in ambiguity, invites readers to ponder what lies ahead, creating a sense of yearning for more without undermining the story’s closure. As an avid reader, it’s a rare pleasure to finish a novel and feel as though its characters remain vividly alive, refusing to fade from memory. This enduring connection speaks to Dean’s skill in imbuing them with authenticity and life.
A particularly moving touch is found in the acknowledgments, where the author ties Gerard and Sasha to The Cure’s “Pictures of You.” This personal detail adds emotional depth, striking a chord that lingers. Having recently revisited the song myself, the parallel between its themes and the novel’s exploration of anger, despair, and forgiveness felt profoundly serendipitous. R.L. Dean’s Old Paladins offers a thought-provoking narrative, richly developed characters, and beautifully immersive prose. It’s a story that lingers in the heart and mind long after the final page.
Pages: 370 | ASIN : B0DL4HKWBV
Liar Queen
M.T. Solomon’s Liar Queen delivers an epic fantasy brimming with heart-pounding adventure, slow-burning romance, and intricate family dynamics. At its heart lies a brutal tradition—a fight to the death between sisters to determine the Queen of the Sacred Sword. Mara, having defeated her sister, Iris, now rules the Jeweled Realm. Her reign faces turmoil when news arrives of a witch in the wasteland claiming to be Iris, demanding an audience. The encounter threatens to unravel Mara’s hard-won throne. Boden, a prince from another realm and a devout follower of Saint Kalda pledges unwavering loyalty to the rightful queen. His devotion fuels his resolve to follow Mara on her perilous journey. But as the dangers mount, Boden must confront the ultimate question: is his queen’s cause worth the price of his life?
The novel balances action, emotion, and a richly imagined world. Solomon crafts a tale that keeps readers hooked, with a narrative pace that urges, “just one more chapter.” Beneath the thrilling plot lies a deeper exploration of sibling relationships and the painful process of breaking toxic family cycles. These themes are intricately woven into vivid imagery, painting a landscape as dynamic as the story itself. The characters are unforgettable.
Mara’s strength and vulnerability create a compelling protagonist, while Boden’s steadfastness adds depth to their partnership. The inclusion of a map enriches the experience, allowing readers to journey alongside the characters through forests, deserts, and islands. Each realm introduces distinct cultures, religions, and traditions, offering a fascinating exploration of diversity. The story underscores the possibilities of peace, emphasizing the value of embracing differences.
Liar Queen captivated me from start to finish. Its immersive world, multi-dimensional characters, and resonant themes left me longing for more. If you seek an adventurous fantasy with meaningful undertones and a touch of romance, Liar Queen is an essential addition to your reading list.
Pages: 372 | ASIN : B0DKTVVZXL
Ramifications for the Future
From Great Heights follows a man using nanotechnology disguised as magic to aid struggling communities who battles against prejudice and fear from the people he is trying to save. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The original inspiration for the novel came from a short story I wrote for a college writing class. I’d read some of Jack Vance’s Dying Earth series and liked the idea of technology so advanced, it basically becomes a form of magic.
I also wanted to play with the idea that the main character of the story needed to periodically consume something from the people he intends to help in order to further his aims and accomplish his goals. To make the audience root for the monster.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from and how did it change as you were writing?
Other inspiration for the story, and the novel that grew from it, comes from Stephen King’s Dark Tower series, and the books Illium and Olympos by Dan Simmons. In both sets of books, the world is recognizable, but markedly different from the world we know. I attempted to create a similar setting in From Great Heights.
The story changed dramatically once I started adding the other main characters and exploring their situations. Initially, it was going to be a straightforward struggle between two factions. I made a choice midway through to separate the three storylines in time, (and arrange them out of order) but still make the repercussions of each felt in the others, linking all three through time. It was actually pretty fun coming up with ways to reference, and some cases foreshadow, the events of one storyline within the others.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Human history, and our inability to learn from it, has always fascinated me. As I was writing, I liked the idea that despite being united by lofty goals and aligned by a shared mission, personal disagreements, and ambition creep in and disrupt things. Another of my favorite themes, one I’ve explored in a few of my books, is the idea of technology run amok. Hard-charging technological progress without considering the ramifications for the future (or sometimes the present) is a very real and present worry in today’s world.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
This is a standalone novel. At the moment, I have no plans to continue the story as a series. If a good enough idea for a story within this world occurs to me in the future, I will pursue it. But as of right now, it is done.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
As one of the enigmatic Watchers, Terrance Rance is bound by an ancient oath to guide and assist the fragments of humanity desperately clinging to life after a catastrophe. To aid him, he and his fellow Watchers wield magic older than the world itself. However, years of discord among them have come to a head, and Rance must work fast to prevent a civil war that threatens the world they are trying to save.
Regaline Yager travels alone through the wilderness with two special children. They are the keys to the future, and she must protect them at all cost against dangerous beasts stalking the wilds and enemy soldiers hunting them for their abilities. If she fails, civilization will fall to ruin.
Though they live decades apart, their destinies are intertwined. From Great Heights is a science fiction novel in which the actions of individuals reverberate across generations, affecting others as the fate of a world hangs in the balance.
Confronting New Challenges
Nothing Ever Happens on Main Street follows a young man who finds out how exciting his boring small town can be when he steps beyond a mysterious door on Main Street. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
One evening, I found myself in a small main street area during a fireworks display. While everyone was watching the fireworks, I was admiring the turn-of-the-century architecture. The old brownstone buildings and facades were being cast in unusual colors and shadows and it struck me as a great setting for a sci-fi type storing. Since Main Street settings seemed to always have a ‘sleepy’ connotation, the question I posed to myself was, ‘”Why does nothing happen there?” Once I answered that question, the story took on a life of its own.
What scene did you have the most fun writing?
I found myself enjoying any scene where the main character, Parker, was on his own, such as his mission on the lake or exploring the decrepit house. It was at these moments when Parker could think and feel for himself without other characters intruding, and allowed me to invest more personally in everything that was transpiring.
How did the mystery develop for this story? Did you plan it before writing or did it develop organically?
I did a fair amount of plotting, but before I could do that, I needed to understand what the story meant to each of the characters, whether that was Parker confronting new challenges, Doyle wrestling with his own role in society, or Cassandra coming to terms with her grief. Once I had a grip on each of them, then it was a matter of finding where their arcs landed in the story, combining them with all of the needed scenes, and making sure their stories were told.
Can we look forward to more mysteries from you soon? What are you currently working on?
My current project falls into the category of adventure involving light-hearted pirates, puzzles, mysterious treasure, and a few genre-bending surprises, with plans that it will be ready by next summer. I have been asked if Nothing Ever Happens on Main Street is the start of a series. Honestly, I had intended it to be a stand-alone story, however, after completing it, I realized that there is another story there. When I explored the idea a bit further, what I found surprised me, so I am definitely wanting to return to the setting of Main Street in Harding Springs soon!
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Nothing ever happens in Harding Springs. No tragic fires on Regent Avenue. No boating disaster on the lake. No runaway carriage ever flattened the Harding Springs Auxiliary Marching Band. It’s a quiet town filled with only peaceful and pleasant days.
That’s because no one knows about the incredible secret that lies behind the door at 55 Main Street or that the fates of the town residents rest in the vest pocket of a single, solitary stranger.
But when young Parker Riley and Harding Springs newcomers Cora and Cassandra Swanson stumble upon the amazing truth, their peaceful world is turned upside down as they attempt to protect the town—and themselves—from sinister interlopers and grave danger!
Flamin-Go BOB
Cheryl Spears Waugh delivers an inspiring tale that invites readers to celebrate individuality and embrace creativity. At the heart of the story is a flamingo named Flamin-Go BOB, a free-spirited character who proudly stands out from his flock. While his peers prefer calm conformity, Bob is full of energy and eager to live life differently. He struggles to fit into their routines, building a sandcastle instead of a traditional dome-shaped nest or gleefully doing somersaults in the rain while the others seek shelter from a storm. It’s only when Bob meets a kind veterinarian named Aleta that he discovers his unique path and realizes his true potential.
Bob’s charm lies in his unapologetic embrace of his quirks. Though his choices can be a bit reckless, his cheerfulness and authenticity shine through. He knows he’s different but doesn’t let that stop him from building connections. Cheryl Spears Waugh’s writing strikes a delightful balance. Its short and simple sentences make the story approachable for young readers, yet the playful details and humorous moments keep it engaging. The characters embody warmth and inclusivity, and the story emphasizes the importance of respecting differences. An added bonus is the educational section at the end, which shares fascinating flamingo facts.
The illustrations, while fitting the story, could have been enhanced with brighter, sharper backgrounds to better reflect Bob’s lively personality. At times, the darker tones feel slightly at odds with the vibrant energy of the narrative. However, this does little to detract from the book’s overall appeal. Children will find meaningful lessons woven throughout the story. Themes of kindness, teamwork, and empathy towards animals are presented naturally. Bob’s journey also shows that stepping outside one’s comfort zone can lead to personal growth. His time at the veterinary clinic not only helps him make new friends but also helps him uncover his purpose.
Flamin-Go BOB is a delightful story of self-discovery, individuality, and the joy of exploring new possibilities. It’s an engaging children’s book that inspires children to be true to themselves while embracing the adventures that come with trying something new.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0DN8X35R5
LITERARY TITAN 