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Chronicles of Iron: Thunder Road
Chronicles of Iron: Thunder Road is a gritty coming-of-age tale set against the harsh backdrop of the American frontier, told through the eyes of young Ian, whose life is upended by the sudden suicide of his father. Thrust into adulthood far too early, Ian’s journey begins with trauma and spirals into a rugged path of survival, heartbreak, and ultimately, redemption. From the rural fields of his childhood to the dust-covered roads of salesman caravans and the unrelenting reality of a cowboy’s life, this book weaves together themes of grief, betrayal, hard-earned wisdom, and the search for belonging. Chilson gives us a western that’s as psychological as it is physical, and that’s where its power lies.
As someone who grew up devouring westerns, I didn’t expect this one to hit me the way it did. The tone is raw and visceral. The pain is real, and the opening chapter sets the foundation for everything that follows. And it ain’t just about survival or gunslinging—this story digs into what it means to grow up hard and fast when the world ain’t offering you a single lifeline. Ian’s descent into guilt and self-blame, followed by his attempts to find work, his failures, and the heartbreak of losing Bess, the horse he cared for, made the story feel more like a psychological duel than a shootout. Yet somehow, it still holds onto that cowboy code of grit and quiet honor.
What really got me was the switch in the second half—from broken boy to sharp-tongued hustler under the wing of Silas. That arc reminded me of the classic western trope of the young buck learning the ropes, except here it’s twisted. Instead of becoming a hero, Ian learns how to manipulate, lie, and cheat—and then pays the price. I wanted to shake him when he betrayed Silas, a man who genuinely gave him a shot. Chilson’s writing is sharp in those parts—not flowery, not dressed up—just bare-boned truth. There’s a beauty in that kind of honesty, the kind of storytelling where every misstep matters.
By the time the story shifts to Henry, a more grounded version of Ian trying to find peace and purpose on a struggling farm, you start to feel the tide turn. The relationship between Henry and Lucas brought it all home. It’s the kind of mentorship that defines a man, built not on words but actions. From fixing busted irrigation systems to fighting off rabid wolves with nothing but grit and a stick, these chapters scream classic western, but with soul. Lucas’s line, “There’s a code… a cowboy code,” resonated with me. It wasn’t just about riding tall or shooting straight. It was about keeping your word, being decent when it costs something, and doing right by others even when no one’s watching.
If you’re a fan of traditional westerns packed with dust, blood, moral gray areas, and characters that stick with you long after the fire’s out, Chronicles of Iron: Thunder Road deserves a place on your shelf. But it’s more than a western—it’s a story about being lost and clawing your way back, about learning that being strong doesn’t mean being cruel. This one’s for readers who appreciate depth in their cowboys, who want a story that punches first and comforts second. Kelly Chilson wrote something real here.
Pages: 87 | ASIN : B0F3V99JWV
My Bully, My Aunt, & Her Final Gift
Harold Phifer’s My Bully, My Aunt, and Her Final Gift is an unfiltered, brutally honest reflection on his tumultuous relationship with Aunt Kathy, an overbearing, larger-than-life figure who left an undeniable mark on his life. The book weaves between past and present, recounting stories of trauma, manipulation, and resilience. Through humor, raw emotion, and biting wit, Phifer paints a vivid picture of a childhood filled with contradictions and his aunt’s relentless bullying juxtaposed with her unwavering Christian devotion. It all comes to a head when he’s called upon to eulogize the very woman who tormented him, forcing him to reckon with a past that never really let him go.
Phifer’s storytelling is electric. His words don’t tiptoe around the truth; they stomp in, slam doors, and demand attention. The book kicks off with a scene in war-torn Afghanistan, setting the stage for a life lived in extremes. Right away, his descriptions pull you into the chaotic streets, the noise, and the unpredictability of a place far removed from his Mississippi roots. And yet, it’s Aunt Kathy’s death that rattles him most. The way he describes her resilience, having “survived assaults, coronaries, fevers, famines, plagues, pandemics, strokes, and global warming for almost 100 years,” is equal parts hilarious and horrifying. You can’t help but laugh, even as you sense the deep scars she left behind.
What makes this book stand out is Phifer’s ability to balance pain with humor. He doesn’t just tell you that Aunt Kathy was overbearing; he shows you through her actions. Whether it’s her religious fanaticism, her disdain for the very people she claimed to serve, or the way she manipulated family dynamics, her presence looms large on every page. And yet, he finds absurdity in the tragedy. Take, for example, the moment when the pastor calls to inform him of her death. Phifer’s initial reaction isn’t grief; it’s disbelief that Aunt Kathy’s indestructible force is finally gone. That kind of honesty is what makes the book so compelling. It’s not sugarcoated. It’s not polished for the sake of sentimentality. It’s real.
Beyond the humor and sharp commentary, the book carries a deep emotional weight. Phifer doesn’t just recount his struggles; he confronts them. The tension with his brothers, the absence of genuine familial support, and the impact of generational trauma are all laid bare. The scenes leading up to Aunt Kathy’s funeral are particularly powerful. His struggle to reconcile his feelings, the absurdity of having to publicly praise someone who made his life miserable, and the chaotic nature of the funeral itself feel almost cinematic. He captures the dysfunction of family dynamics with an unflinching eye, making the book as much about survival as it is about storytelling.
My Bully, My Aunt, and Her Final Gift is for readers who appreciate memoirs that don’t shy away from the messiness of life. If you enjoy books with dark humor, raw honesty, and a narrator who tells it like it is, this one’s for you. It’s a wild, emotional, often hilarious ride through the complexities of family, faith, and finding peace in unexpected places. Phifer doesn’t ask for sympathy. He just lays it all out and lets the reader decide what to take from it. And in doing so, he’s crafted a memoir that lingers long after the last page.
Pages: 139 | ASIN : B0DVV8PJY1
A Hundred Magical Reasons
Laura DeNooyer’s A Hundred Magical Reasons is a dazzling blend of history, whimsy, and heart. It tells the intertwining stories of two women from different eras, Janie in the early 1900s and Carrie in the 1970s both of whom find solace, inspiration, and purpose through their connection to The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and its creator, L. Frank Baum. At its core, this novel is about the magic of storytelling, the search for belonging, and the power of imagination to shape lives across generations.
One of the most striking aspects of this book is its rich, immersive world. DeNooyer paints the past with remarkable detail, making 1900s Macatawa, Michigan feel alive. The way she brings L. Frank Baum into the story, mentoring young Janie, inspiring her creativity, and offering wisdom wrapped in playful charm is nothing short of enchanting. A standout moment is when Baum encourages Janie to write her own fairy tales, telling her, “Imagination’s a fine place for characters to reside, but it’s just the beginning.” That sentiment lingers throughout the book, echoing in both timelines as Carrie, decades later, grapples with her own dreams and struggles.
But it’s not just the history and literary references that shine; it’s the emotional weight carried by both Janie and Carrie’s journeys. Janie’s quiet rebellion against her strict mother, her secret visits with Baum, and the heartbreak of losing her writing mentor create a deeply moving arc. The scene where Janie’s typewriter, a gift from Baum, is sold by her father is gut-wrenching. Similarly, Carrie’s strained relationship with her own mother and her search for personal freedom in the 1970s add layers of depth and relatability. The contrast between the two eras, one where imagination is nurtured in secret and another where it fights to break free from societal expectations, gives the novel an emotional richness that lingers long after the last page.
Beyond the heartfelt storytelling, DeNooyer’s writing is brimming with warmth, wit, and a touch of nostalgia. She masterfully blends real-life historical figures with fictional characters, making it all feel seamless and organic. Some moments, like Carrie’s realization that “a dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight,” hit hard, reminding us of the importance of chasing dreams despite the odds. There’s a deep love for literature woven into every chapter, and it’s hard not to get swept up in the joy of it all.
A Hundred Magical Reasons is the perfect read for dreamers, storytellers, and anyone who’s ever felt out of place in their own world. Fans of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz will find even more to love, but even if you’ve never read a single Oz book, this novel stands beautifully on its own. If you love historical fiction with heart, compelling characters, and a touch of literary magic, this one’s for you.
Pages: 534 | ASIN : B0D4Q1VK1C
Pleasure to Purpose: Based on the True Story of Sex Worker Scarlett Pereira
Pleasure to Purpose by Elizabeth B. Splaine, narrates the compelling, gritty, and deeply personal story of Scarlett Pereira, a sex worker whose journey intertwines struggles, empowerment, and a complex exploration of identity and humanity. Drawing from Scarlett’s real-life experiences, the book delves into her professional and personal life, including her nuanced relationships, encounters with clients, and moments of introspection. The narrative also includes Scarlett’s connection to her “heart horse,” Franco, symbolizing healing and transformation amid chaos.
Splaine’s writing is engaging, and the vivid portrayal of Scarlett’s experiences struck a chord with me. One striking scene involves Scarlett managing a client’s health crisis during a session. Her quick thinking juxtaposed with her colleague Steph’s indifference highlights Scarlett’s deep sense of humanity and professionalism, even in precarious circumstances. The storytelling effectively balances raw, unflinching honesty with moments of vulnerability, making Scarlett a relatable and multifaceted protagonist. Some chapters delve into explicit details that, while integral to the narrative, might not resonate with all readers.
What I appreciated most was the blend of resilience and self-reflection throughout Scarlett’s story. Her decision to rescue Franco, despite her challenging financial and personal circumstances, was both heartwarming and symbolic. The connection between Scarlett and Franco serves as a metaphor for rediscovering purpose and hope. The descriptions of Franco’s initial wariness and eventual trust mirrored Scarlett’s own journey, forging a poignant parallel between human and animal recovery.
It is worth noting that the transitions between Scarlett’s professional encounters and personal life are sometimes sudden, particularly when the emotional depth of her introspection shifts abruptly into transactional interactions. I believe these contrasts, while reflective of Scarlett’s dual existence, occasionally disrupted the story’s flow. Nonetheless, the depth of her character and her eventual pivot toward advocacy and self-reliance redeemed any narrative inconsistencies.
Pleasure to Purpose is a gripping and courageous exploration of an often-stigmatized profession, offering insights into resilience, empathy, and personal growth. It’s a perfect read for those who enjoy character-driven stories with a mix of realism and redemption. I would recommend it to readers looking for a raw, thought-provoking tale that doesn’t shy away from life’s complexities. Potential readers should be aware of its explicit content and heavy themes.
Pages: 287 | ASIN : B0DHLFXRMF
Miss del Río: A Novel
In Miss del Rio, Barbara Mujica masterfully reimagines the life of Mexican film star Dolores del Rio, as seen through the eyes of a Mexican immigrant, Maria (Mara) Amparo. Set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution, the novel captures both the sweeping history of a nation and the intimate experiences of two women from starkly different backgrounds. Mara, orphaned and forced to flee her home, finds refuge in Mexico City, where she becomes entangled with the politically influential Madero family. Meanwhile, Lola (María de los Dolores Asúnsolo López-Negrete), born into wealth, sees her privileged life upended by the chaos of the revolution when she is assaulted by a revolutionary servant. The two women, brought together by war, are later separated but find a way to reconnect as their lives take divergent yet intertwined paths.
Mujica excels in portraying the brutality of this war-torn period, immersing readers in the violence and upheaval of early 20th-century Mexico. The visceral imagery—graphic depictions of bodies littering the paths of both characters—leaves a chilling impression, intensifying the novel’s historical atmosphere. The fast-paced narrative keeps readers engaged, especially as Mara’s sympathetic, slow-growing character contrasts with Lola’s evolution into a glamorous figure in both Mexican and American culture.
Dolores del Rio, the novel’s central figure, is introduced through the lens of Mara’s perspective, which adds depth to the storytelling but also presents certain challenges. One of the strengths of Miss del Rio is Mujica’s ability to vividly bring to life both the historical context and the complex emotional journeys of her characters. The Mexican Revolution is not just a backdrop but a living, breathing presence that shapes every decision and action. Mujica’s portrayal of class distinctions, especially through Mara’s eyes, adds depth to the narrative. I felt a genuine empathy for Mara’s struggles, as she navigates her own sense of worth while watching Dolores ascend to fame. The contrast between Mara’s life of hardship and Dolores’ life of glamour is stark, and the author handles it with a delicate touch. There are moments where the narrative structure falters. The shifting perspectives between first and third person can be confusing, particularly when switching between Mara’s personal recollections and the more detached, third-person account of Dolores’ life. While I appreciate Mujica’s ambition in telling the story from multiple angles, the lack of clear transitions made it hard to stay fully immersed in certain parts of the book. Mujica excels in creating an emotionally charged atmosphere, especially in her depiction of relationships. The bond between Mara and Dolores feels real and deeply rooted, even when tested by time and circumstance. Dolores’ glamorous yet troubled life contrasts beautifully with Mara’s grounded and often heartbreaking reality.
Miss del Rio is a rich, engaging novel that blends historical fiction with a deeply personal narrative. Barbara Mujica paints a vivid picture of both revolutionary Mexico and the golden age of Hollywood, capturing the complexities of friendship, fame, and identity. While the book occasionally struggles with its perspective shifts, the emotional core of the story remains strong. Fans of biographical fiction will also appreciate Mujica’s thoughtful portrayal of Dolores del Río’s life.
Pages: 428 | ASIN : B09P1NH1WQ
Famous Duo
The Tutankhamen Friendship weaves a tale of friendship, perseverance, and discovery as archaeologists navigate the challenges and triumphs of unearthing one of history’s greatest archaeological treasures. What inspired you to write this story?
Like many people, I have been fascinated by Tutankhamen since childhood. I initially wrote a book about him. No one knows how the teenage king died, although academics have a variety of theories about his demise. One day, when I was trying to choose Tutankhamen’s death scene, the idea of writing about his discoverers arose.
How did you balance historical accuracy with fictional storytelling when reimagining the personal dynamics between Carter and Carnarvon?
There is a lot of public information about Lord Carnarvon and Howard Carter. It was easy to balance the knowledge of history with fiction, in part because the discovery reads like a novel.
Indiana Jones was a fictional character synonymous with archeology. However, the immensely wealthy English aristocrat, Lord Carnarvon and the driven archaeologist, Howard Carter, were real people. Toss in a beautiful unattainable woman (Lord Carnarvon’s daughter) and you have a recipe for unrequited love. Add Egyptians, French, and Americans, with a dash of Muslim and Christian interaction, and one is headed for something interesting. When it is combined with the threat of an Egyptian revolution and world press attention, it is very easy for a writer to make one small step from historical fact to fiction!
The novel vividly captures the atmosphere of early 20th-century Egypt. What kind of research went into recreating this setting?
I have visited Egypt several times since childhood. Egyptian customs and the way of life have not changed in many parts since Carter and Carnarvon’s time. This assisted me in the depiction of the Egyptian characters, one of whom is a leading character in the story.
It is also possible to walk in the footsteps of Carter and Carnarvon. There are places where the duo frequented, such as the Winter Palace, Castle Carter, and the Tutankhamen’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings, all of which are helpful to a novelist’s creation.
How do you hope readers will connect with the themes of perseverance and friendship in the context of such a monumental historical event?
In every close friendship, there are times when people agree and others when they are at loggerheads. It is easy for readers to connect with Carter and Carnarvon because they had a real friendship.
The famous duo spent years excavating together. They often lived together during those periods of excavation. This proximity to one another created a bond, but it also led to arguments.
Carnarvon’s letter to Carter after a deep rift, possibly over Carter’s feelings for Lady Evelyn, is very touching because he asks for forgiveness. In those days it was unheard of, not simply because Carnarvon was Carter’s employer, but because he was upper class.
With their bond of friendship, these men crossed the social barriers of their time and culture and their communication probably went some way towards making the Tutankhamen discovery. They could have given up several times, but because they were friends, they persevered together to produce a result that staggers us even today.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When he learned Tutankhamen was real…
… he started to trust the archaeologist.
But was Lord Carnarvon prepared for an ancient curse?
Carnarvon has three problems, a weak heart, the angry excavator Howard Carter, and dwindling funds.
There are occult forces at work.
He and Carter must learn to fight their powers.
What they didn’t expect was the media. With the curse of an ancient pharaoh still lying in his tomb the pair must find a team to remove the gold before it’s too late.
The Blue Mask
The Blue Mask is a riveting exploration of the rise, fall, and resurrection of a band navigating fame, fortune, and personal demons. At the heart of the story are Alix and Joel, the lead singer and lead guitarist, whose journeys form the emotional core of the narrative. While a rich supporting cast adds depth, the focus remains on these two as they grapple with addiction, loss, and the unpredictable highs and lows of stardom. The book expertly traces their path from near-destruction to success, only to confront the bitter realities of their hard-won fame.
The characters are exceptionally well-crafted, with Alix’s struggles with addiction and Joel’s simultaneous laziness and fierce loyalty making for a compelling duo. Their relationship is fraught with tension and moments of tenderness. It’s captivating, and when other characters like Brad, Ash, and Bear are added to the mix, the story becomes even more vibrant. Their interactions feel real and dynamic, bringing the world of the band to life in a way that’s both gritty and deeply human.
Tonally, the book strikes a perfect balance between grounded realism and moments of humor that lighten the emotional weight of the story. Its pacing is steady, allowing for both reflection and forward momentum, with each beat of the story landing with precision. The exploration of fame’s costs on mental health, relationships, and personal identity is beautifully intertwined with the plot, making the impact of these themes resonate strongly.
By the time I reached the final chapter, I was so emotionally invested that I nearly wept, which is a rare experience in my years of reviewing. Each moment in the book feels purposeful; no scene is wasted. Whether it’s driving the plot forward or offering more insight into the characters, every page feels essential. The writing is tight and meaningful, with an economy of words that ensures every line serves a purpose. This tightness makes for a read that is both immersive and hard to put down, as every chapter adds more layers to the rich, emotional tapestry Burke has woven.
The Blue Mask is a deeply emotional and heartfelt story. I would recommend to anyone who can handle the raw subject matter, as it pulls no punches in exploring the darker sides of fame and personal struggle. The Blue Mask is a phenomenal read that delves deep into the music industry of the ’90s and examines it through the lens of the individuals who comprise the band rather than the band as an entity. Burke’s ability to create nuanced, lifelike characters and her willingness to explore the emotional costs of success make this a must-read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of music, fame, and personal redemption.
Pages: 345 | ASIN : B0BR8MM4GD
River Town: Wellsville Ohio
River Town: Wellsville Ohio, by David Navarria, is a multi-generational historical narrative set in a small industrial river town that was essential to America’s growth. Based on his mother’s memoirs, diaries, and dictations, Navarria chronicles the lives of various families in Wellsville, Ohio, with a focus on themes of survival, war, and humanity’s darker side. The book spans pivotal moments in American history, from the town’s contributions to two world wars to the struggles of settlers and immigrants. The story moves between personal accounts, romance, crime, and war, shedding light on the human condition and the costs of building a nation.
What stands out to me is the sincerity and passion Navarria pours into recounting his family’s history. The writing, especially in the early chapters, does an excellent job of capturing the grim realities of life in a small industrial town, with vivid descriptions of Wellsville’s growth, its atmosphere, and its people. For example, in the opening scene, the fog-covered streets and the interaction between Pip and the towering Irishman McElhenny evoke an eerie, mysterious mood. Navarria’s style can be heavy at times, but the detail adds richness to the setting, pulling readers into the life of this river town.
Navarria shifts between narrative styles, sometimes diving into lengthy historical exposition, then moving to personal anecdotes, like Luigi Massaro’s escape from a vengeful duel in Sicily. While the historical context is interesting, I found myself more drawn to the personal, emotional stories of individual characters than the broader history of Wellsville.
One of the book’s strongest aspects is its portrayal of complex characters and their moral struggles. The violence, especially in the context of war and survival, is unflinchingly depicted. Navarria doesn’t shy away from showing how brutal life could be for both men and women, as seen through the brutal duels and raw family conflicts. I appreciated that the author remained true to his mother’s accounts, not sugarcoating the harsher aspects of life. While the book is filled with darkness and hardship, there is also a strong undercurrent of redemption and resilience, particularly in the characters who are fighting for survival.
River Town: Wellsville Ohio is a heartfelt and dense historical account that would appeal to readers interested in American history, family sagas, and personal stories of redemption. The historical accuracy combined with the emotional weight of the personal narratives makes this book particularly meaningful for anyone with a love of family history or small-town America.
Pages: 562 | ASIN : B0DBKJ9719
LITERARY TITAN 