Blog Archives
Of Ashes and Dust
Of Ashes and Dust, by Ron Roman, is an enthralling exploration of survival, intrigue, and the human condition. Set in a small New Hampshire town at the turn of the Millennium, the novel follows Professor Will Watson, a haunted Vietnam War veteran and activist. Watson’s tumultuous past and his pursuit by the State Police and FBI form the crux of this gripping narrative. The story delves into Watson’s complex relationship with his Japanese student assistant, Kimiko, and the sinister truth about his friend Mark Mercotti, who deceives him with a covert implant. This tale of personal betrayal unfolds against a backdrop of impending Armageddon, government conspiracies, and profound emotional turmoil.
Roman masterfully weaves together multiple subplots, creating a tapestry of suspense and emotional depth. The layers of the story, from intimate relationships to broader themes of betrayal and existential dread, set this book apart in its genre. The narrative’s complexity and richness elevate it to a work of significant literary merit. I do feel that the main character’s frequent use of crude language seems inconsistent with his portrayal. I think this use of explicit language can be somewhat distracting and detracts from the character’s depth. However, this does not in any way overshadow the novel’s many strengths.
Of Ashes and Dust is a truly compelling read. The novel’s intricate plot, vivid characterizations, and intense emotional undercurrents make it a must-read. Ron Roman’s ability to interlace various elements into a cohesive and engaging narrative is truly remarkable.
For those seeking an action-packed book that also offers emotional depth and thought-provoking themes, Of Ashes and Dust is highly recommended. This masterfully interwoven novel is a feast for the senses and a testament to Roman’s storytelling prowess.
Pages: 261 | ASIN : B0B351MR6Q
The Coffee Traveler
The Coffee Traveler, the debut novel by Tony Salles, is an exceptional read for fans of historical fiction and coffee aficionados. It narrates the story of a boy’s transformative journey in search of the perfect coffee, set against the rich tapestry of history. Kauê, a young boy from the Amazon rainforest’s Tupi Guarani tribe, discovers bright red cherries that his peers warn are poisonous. In an act of defiance, he tastes one and uncovers coffee, setting him off on a life-changing journey intertwined with the true historical tale of Lieutenant Palheta. Palheta, a Creole of Portuguese descent, introduces coffee to Brazil through a secret romance and daring mission. As Kauê matures, he grapples with balancing his Indigenous heritage with the encroaching modern world, facing love, danger, and moral dilemmas along the way. His story delves into themes of identity, cultural heritage, and personal growth, set against the backdrop of coffee’s global journey.
The novel isn’t always lighthearted but rarely feels heavy-handed. Salles masterfully explores these themes through the history of coffee, presenting a nuanced narrative. At times, it reads like a traditional coming-of-age story with a cultural twist, as Kauê transitions from a naive boy to a mature adult, navigating love, deceit, and the shadows of murder. The plot is full of suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Kauê’s unique position, straddling two worlds, forces him to navigate treacherous alliances and face adversaries more worldly than himself. Each decision carries significant consequences, with constant twists and turns adding to the excitement.
Character development in The Coffee Traveler is outstanding. Kauê’s personal growth is closely tied to his cultural identity, symbolized by his ancestral tattoos and the lessons learned in the Amazon. His relationship with Caíque, the tribal elder, is particularly touching, serving as his spiritual and emotional anchor. Other characters are equally well-developed. Nick, a narcissist, provides dark humor, while Alejandra, more than just a love interest, reveals layers of complexity. Her emotional armor gradually falls away after meeting Kauê, adding depth to the narrative. These morally complex characters complement Kauê’s earnestness and naivety, enriching the story.
The Coffee Traveler comes highly recommended. While it explores some dark themes, it remains engaging and handles them with sensitivity. Kauê is a lovable protagonist, and following his journey has been a joy. This novel is a must-read for anyone interested in a beautifully crafted tale of growth, heritage, and the enduring allure of coffee.
Flat Out Lies
Flat Out Lies is an aptly named mystery thriller by Karen Grose. It is filled with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very last page. Ria and Jim appear to be a typical married couple, striving to maintain a happy home for their two teenage sons. However, their facade begins to crack when an unexpected murder shakes their tranquil neighborhood. As secrets unravel, the foundation of their seemingly perfect marriage reveals itself to be a web of lies threatening to tear their family apart.
From the first page, Grose crafts an atmosphere of suspense. As readers try to understand the motivations of Ria and Jim, they quickly realize that the narrative is unreliable. Both characters conceal crucial information, transforming this mystery into a complex puzzle. With each chapter, new revelations about the characters deepen the intrigue, making it clear that nothing and no one can be trusted. Ria and Jim’s fear of their past actions being exposed leads to mounting tension and paranoia. Jim views Ria as increasingly erratic, while Ria suspects Jim is hiding something significant. The resulting confusion and uncertainty raise doubts about whether the truth will ever surface. Grose’s writing captivates and keeps readers on edge. Her compelling storytelling immerses readers in a world of secrecy and suspense. The plot’s numerous twists make it difficult to put the book down, as each answered question spawns new mysteries. Grose transforms readers into detectives, challenging them to piece together the truth.
Flat Out Lies is a deeply engaging thriller with a meticulously structured plot and well-developed characters. For anyone seeking a gripping read from start to finish, this book is an excellent choice.
Pages: 313 | ASIN : B0D4R9DP1X
Dream Big: Peyton’s Hip-Hop Adventure
Peyton has big news: she’s decided to enter the school’s talent show. She quickly realizes that writing and performing her own rap song is the perfect way to showcase her talent. With the unwavering support of her mom and best friend, Kaya, Peyton throws herself into preparations, eager to share her love of music. However, as the big day approaches, nerves start to creep in, making her question if she truly has what it takes to succeed.
Dream Big: Peyton’s Hip-Hop Adventure by Paula Banks tells the inspiring story of Peyton, a young girl whose positive outlook is infectious. Peyton’s confidence shines through even when she faces significant challenges, making her a relatable and admirable protagonist. As the talent show looms, Peyton’s anxiety grows, and she candidly expresses her fears. This honesty about her emotions makes Peyton an especially effective and memorable character for young readers. As an educator, I believe Banks has crafted a story that should be included in elementary school curriculums, particularly by school counselors. Peyton’s journey teaches an essential lesson about perseverance and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of adversity. Her pride in her achievements is almost tangible, leaving readers with a warm and lasting impression.
Dream Big: Peyton’s Hip-Hop Adventure features a charming main character who is sure to win the hearts of young readers with her confidence and sparkling personality. I highly recommend Paula Banks’ latest book to both parents and teachers for its engaging story and valuable life lessons.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0CW1CSS15
Ashes and Miracles
When armed strangers storm Priest Hamlet demanding the sacred Ashes of St. Arne, Alacrity’s sheltered life is thrown into chaos. Once content with the mundane task of tending a deserted toll bridge, she is now entrusted with a grand assignment: protecting the coveted ancient relic, the Ashes of St. Arne. As Alacrity embarks on her quest, her path converges with Marques D’Wyrmsbane, a desperate nobleman fleeing for his life. Together, they must evade relentless divine beings and mortal adversaries driven by greed, grudges, and hidden agendas. Teetering on the brink of death, they uncover the shocking truth about the Ashes of St. Arne, a secret poised to alter history forever.
Michael Grace expertly weaves suspense and intrigue in Ashes and Miracles, blending intricate plotlines, vivid action, and immersive world-building to deliver an exceptional fantasy tale. The story opens with a gripping hook, setting the stage for a complex and engaging narrative. This compelling start builds excitement and lays the groundwork for the intricate plot. As the story unfolds, suspenseful twists keep readers on edge, although these frequent developments can sometimes become overwhelming, occasionally overshadowing the central storyline and making it challenging to maintain a clear focus. The relationships and dynamics present a mixed bag. While some relationships are straightforward, others are more complex. For instance, the evolving bond between Alacrity and Marques keeps readers guessing whether their connection is a deep friendship or something more intimate. Similarly, his interactions with the divine being, Madeline, add another layer of complexity, leaving their dynamic open to interpretation. This ambiguity fuels intrigue and speculation, allowing readers to explore their interpretations of these relationships.
Grace successfully constructs a richly detailed fantasy setting that will captivate readers. He describes fight and action scenes with striking clarity and intensity, demonstrating impressive attention to detail. Each battle is exhilarating and immersive, adding significant depth and excitement to the narrative. Although the plot twists, especially those involving the antagonist, can be outrageous and exaggerated, they bring a unique and creative unpredictability to the story. Ashes and Miracles is a memorable read due to its richly imagined world and engaging plot.
Pages: 267 | ASIN : B0D77ZK147
Improbable Future
Following Samuel Hayward’s death in his prison cell, news reports insist it was not a suicide. Wealthy, influential, and corrupt, he was revered as the Messiah by a misguided group of violent racists. Madison Hayward returns to the mansion in Albany, New York, where she endured a traumatic childhood. As the next in line to inherit Samuel’s wealth, she finds herself at a crossroads. Seeking closure for her past abuse and the secrets she has harbored, Madison breaks off her engagement and becomes ensnared in the painful memories of her youth. In her quest for support, Madison reaches out to her Cadence family. But safety is elusive, and trust is scarce in this gripping mystery novel, as her return unveils a deadly web of secrets.
Improbable Future by Dianne L. Hagan is the fifth book in the Cadence Mystery series. This compelling story delves into the harsh realities of racism, religious fanaticism, and systemic injustice. As the title suggests, the pervasive corruption, hatred, and wickedness in society have eroded the hope for a better future. The novel addresses both sexual and physical abuse, making it a poignant and intense read. Hagan’s storytelling is masterful, with a captivating plot filled with suspense and tinged with horror. The setting—a mansion with a tragic history—adds depth to the narrative. Madison Hayward is a complex character, driven by her painful past and a desire to make a positive change in the world. Her interactions with a diverse and supportive group of friends and family are heartwarming. The ongoing backstory suggests that readers will benefit from reading the previous books in the Cadence Mystery series to fully grasp the narrative’s nuances. Fans of suspenseful thrillers will find this journey to uncover corruption and seek justice both engaging and thought-provoking.
Improbable Future by Dianne L. Hagan is a riveting addition to the Cadence Mystery series, blending suspense, emotional depth, and social commentary. Madison Hayward’s journey through her traumatic past and her fight against the legacies of corruption and injustice make for a compelling narrative. This novel not only entertains but also challenges readers to reflect on the pervasive issues of racism and abuse.
Pages: 316 | ASIN : B0D7B2WYH7
Ira
Ira is a standalone companion novel to Jason Boggs’ The Devil’s Dragon, the first installment in a trilogy. This novel delves into the life of Ira Bilis, the antagonist from the first book, as she seeks vengeance against Nelson Jones and his Aesini allies for their previous triumph over her faction. Firmly rooted in the science fiction genre, Ira features an array of spaceships, alien species, and advanced technology that fans of space operas will appreciate.
The world-building in Ira, and the broader Dragon-verse, is remarkably detailed. Boggs has crafted the Aesini as a distinct alien species with unique physiology and capabilities, setting them apart from the human characters. The technology, ranging from human spaceships to the Sungates enabling quasi-lightspeed travel (more akin to teleportation than traditional hyperspace or warp travel), is intricately designed, giving the Dragon-verse a well-structured and immersive quality. The narrative offers a dynamic blend of passive and active voices, adding variety to the storytelling. The portrayal of characters, particularly those in military settings, introduces a unique and unconventional perspective.
Throughout the story, there are moments of transition that reflect the complexities of the plot. Ira, the central character, showcases a fascinating duality, shifting between being a formidable threat and displaying vulnerability, which adds depth to her persona. Nelson’s rapid recovery from personal loss and his immediate attraction to an Aesini, despite his ingrained prejudices, highlights the transformative power of love and adaptability, adding an interesting layer to his character development. The novel aspires to be a gritty and inspirational space opera, and it brings a unique and ambitious vision to the genre. Variations in narrative tone and character behavior introduce an element of unpredictability that can be intriguing.
Ira contains the elements of an epic and engaging story. When not portrayed as an incel or falling into bizarre trances, Ira is a compelling antagonist. Her driving motivations of pride and wrath make her a fascinating character with the potential to be a memorable villain. Fans of the Dragon-verse will find value in its detailed world-building and intriguing characters.
Pages: 180
A Voice at the Table
A Voice at the Table is a compelling memoir by Brendan T. Kelly, exploring his challenging childhood, the adversities he faced, and his journey to finding purpose. Raised in a single-parent household marked by poverty and social stigma, Kelly recounts his experiences from childhood to adulthood, highlighting his struggles with self-doubt, self-bullying, and feeling like an outsider. This vivid and honest narrative underscores the importance of resilience and understanding one’s “why,” making it a poignant, introspective, and candid read.
Kelly’s writing is both engaging and relatable, employing a conversational tone that makes readers feel as if they are having a deep, personal conversation with him. The seamless transition from one stage of his life to another is systematic and perfectly paced, allowing readers to process their emotions and reflect on their own lives. Kelly’s vivid recounting of key moments, such as failing first grade due to a lack of focus on academics and being teased for his speech impediment, is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. His positivity and humorous approach help readers manage their overwhelming feelings, even as he discusses serious issues like mental health struggles, PTSD, and a suicide attempt. Kelly’s honesty and bravery in addressing these subjects are truly admirable.
The raw and relatable nature of Kelly’s writing makes it easy for readers to empathize with his struggles and triumphs. His story is authentic, and he skillfully balances serious moments with light anecdotes to keep readers focused on the book’s valuable takeaways. Among these takeaways are the importance of being kinder to oneself, finding one’s purpose, and appreciating the unique stories and perspectives of others. Kelly’s straightforward and unpretentious style, combined with his compassion and desire to add value to the reader, shines through in his writing.
A Voice at the Table offers readers a profound look into the life of Brendan T. Kelly. It is a story of overcoming adversity, finding one’s voice, and understanding the deeper reasons behind our actions. Kelly’s honest and reflective writing provides valuable lessons on resilience, self-awareness, and the importance of self-kindness. This book is not only a compelling personal narrative but also a guide for anyone seeking to understand themselves better and live a more fulfilling life. The generosity and concern for the welfare of others that Kelly demonstrates through his unflinching honesty is truly admirable.
Pages: 177 | ASIN : B0D56WHC2V
LITERARY TITAN 