Blog Archives
The Halls of Valhalla
The Halls of Valhalla is a thrilling journey through a reimagined Norse afterlife, where fallen warriors must navigate battles, prophecies, and their own pasts to protect their sanctuary. The story centers around Milo Bohr and his companions as they are thrust into the mythical halls of Valhalla, faced with the daunting task of defending it from an impending doom that intertwines with ancient prophecies and the machinations of gods.
From the very beginning, the author captivates readers with a vivid depiction of Milo’s awakening in Valhalla, disoriented yet filled with a sense of purpose. The detailed world-building is one of the book’s strongest points. The descriptions of Valhalla, from its grand feasts to the eerie, ever-present threat of Ragnarok, are both immersive and imaginative. I loved the way the author, Gabriella Dennany, intertwines traditional Norse mythology with her own creative twists, giving familiar myths new life and adding depth to characters like Milo, Silas, and Thalia.
The book introduces a multitude of characters and mythological elements that, at times, can be overwhelming. For instance, the constant introduction of new realms and creatures, such as the Spøgelse spirits and the Dragur army, although fascinating, sometimes made it challenging to keep track of the main plot. That said, these elements also contribute to the rich tapestry of the story, making it a double-edged sword.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is the character development. Milo’s journey from a confused, newly-dead warrior to a determined protector of Valhalla is compelling and heartfelt. His interactions with Thalia and Silas provide a mix of camaraderie and conflict that feels genuine. The emotional weight of their quest is palpable, especially in scenes like the solemn farewell to Silas, where the pain of loss and the hope of reunion are beautifully portrayed.
The Halls of Valhalla is a must-read for fans of Norse mythology, young adult adventure novels, and epic fantasy. Dennany’s writing is engaging, and her imaginative take on ancient myths offers a fresh perspective that keeps readers hooked.
Pages: 446 | ASIN : B0D3JS1YZZ
A Place of Love & Light
Ellen Edmondson’s A Place of Love and Light is a journey into the depths of spirituality and its practical implications in daily life. Through her meticulously crafted chapters, Edmondson not only invites readers on a path toward personal enlightenment and universal love but also offers a transformative experience. This book is more than a read; it is a catalyst for a deeper connection with the divine and with oneself, inspiring hope and optimism.
Edmondson’s writing style, a blend of clarity and deep compassion, makes complex spiritual concepts accessible and engaging. Her use of vivid metaphors and personal anecdotes enriches the narrative, demonstrating the practical application of her teachings in everyday life. Particularly compelling are her discussions on the “GOD Spark” and “God’s Presence,” which not only provoke thought but also instill a sense of empowerment and optimism about the human capacity for goodness and change.
The book’s content is enriching. Each chapter serves as a standalone meditation on aspects of spirituality, which some may appreciate as it allows for non-linear reading tailored to personal spiritual needs. The chapter on Self Mastery was particularly impactful to me as it dives deep into the essential practices of self-reflection and self-improvement, encouraging readers to cultivate virtues that enhance personal growth and societal contribution. One standout example from the book discusses the significance of “Be Still,” where Edmondson eloquently describes how moments of stillness are not just pauses but opportunities to connect deeply with the divine and listen to the subtle guidance of our inner selves.
A Place of Love and Light is a heartfelt guide to spiritual living that resonates with warmth and wisdom. It’s particularly recommended for those at the beginning of their spiritual journey or anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of a life led by love and light. The book acts as a gentle reminder of the divine within and around us, making it a valuable addition to any spiritual seeker’s library.
Pages: 372 | ASIN : B0CMKLXJWR
Find the Courage to Keep Going
Big Love and War Horse follows a family in North Carolina at the start of WWII who struggle to heal from the death of their wife and mother and the secrets that have been kept hidden. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
We all have family stories we hear growing up. When we share them with others we gain new understandings and form new connections. I began writing Big Love and War Horse in 2015. Life has a way of happening though, and I could not work on my manuscript consistently. This delay benefited me greatly. As time went on I found more and more inspiration from hearing new family histories, and from the historical research I did for my book. With each bit I learned, the story naturally grew.
Although Big Love and War Horse is a work of fiction, many of the characters and stories within the book are loosely based on my family’s history. I will say the original inspiration for the novel was the death of my grandmother. She sadly took her own life when I was very young. All of us have experienced loss and grief during tumultuous times. I wanted to share the emotions of a broken family surviving the same adversities many of us face today. No matter where a person is from, or who they are, there will be moments in life where they need to find the courage to keep going.
What inspired and guided your thinking in telling this family’s story through the eyes of their beloved dogs, and how did you get into the mindset to do this?
Sometimes I think no one knows you like your pets do. Anyone who has a dog can tell you about the unconditional love their furry friend has for them. For a lot of us, our dogs are with us during some of our most vulnerable moments. They witness us in private when no one else is around. I truly believe they share our joy and empathize with our pain. Although she has passed now, my Great Pyrenees, Big Love, was always a comfort to me. My Doberman, War Horse, is still always at my side. I have often wondered what my dogs are thinking as they experience life with me. I think a lot of people wonder about that. It seemed only fitting to add the dogs’ perspectives. I felt telling parts of the story through the eyes of Big Love and War Horse added a level of intimacy and understanding that we would not otherwise have.
As for getting into the mindset to write from the dogs’ perspectives, it wasn’t much different than developing my other characters. That may sound funny, but I had to imagine what it would be like if I were a dog. I live on a small farm, so I spend much of my time surrounded by animals. I actually have six dogs. All of them have very different personalities. I spent time observing each of them and learning to understand their behaviors.
Writing from Big Love and War Horse’s perspective was one of my favorite parts of writing this novel. Even during the heaviest moments in the book, I found writing from the dogs’ perspectives refreshing. A dog’s actions are based solely on survival, loyalty, and love. They have the freedom to be who they are with an unbridled spirit.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
All of us in some way have felt the impact of war, financial crisis, racial injustice, or the loss of a loved one, just as the Deacon family does in the novel. I wanted to write a story reminding us of the strength of family bonds and the unwavering friendships that lift us up in our darkest moments. There were many themes I explored and touched upon as I wrote. Jonas and Kay coming of age through tragedy, Luke questioning his self-worth and morals, Linnie weighing what is good versus evil as she tries to find her place in the world, and of course, the unconditional love and loyalty of Big Love and War Horse were just a few themes I felt were important. Most of all, I hoped my novel would be a story of love, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity, where justice and redemption give the readers hope.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I spend a lot of my time writing. I love to explore new genres, and I always let my creativity take me where it wants to. I have several children’s picture books written that I am hoping to publish. I have three novel ideas I am outlining and researching for future projects. Currently, I am working on two different manuscripts. The first is a children’s chapter book that tells the fictitious life story of a crow. However, my main focus is on a novel I am co-authoring with my husband. The genre is contemporary literary fiction. This next book will be a comedy. Be prepared to laugh as much as you probably cried while reading Big Love and War Horse. I am uncertain when my next book will be available, but be on the lookout for The Summer Beard.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Abandoned by their father, Luke, after the sudden death of their mother, fifteen-year-old Jonas and his younger sister Kay are coming of age in a world shrouded in secrecy and uncertainty. Luke’s sister Linnie steps in to help mend the broken family, but haunted by her own hidden truths, her life is shattered by the past.
Through the intimate perspectives of the Deacon family and their dogs, this intricately woven tale of tragedy and love reminds us of the power of the human spirit to rise above seemingly impossible circumstances.
Hope and Humanity
Hounds of Gaia follows an elite bounty hunter who is sent on a mission to transport a serial killer that turns from a simple mission into a life-altering adventure. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When I first came up with the idea for The Marrower Saga, it was in the form of music. I wanted to write a concept album, inspired largely by The Mars Volta and Coheed & Cambria, that was a police procedural about a serial killer in space. I even wrote a few songs in the process of developing the idea. As time went by, however, my dreams of being a musician faded, and I refocused myself on writing (which is what I went to school for). Over about a decade, I kept coming back to this idea, turning it over in my mind. Eventually, I decided I had to just sit down and put pen to paper. That seemingly simple act forced the idea to evolve even more, as I had to finally ask myself what kind of story I wanted to tell and what themes I wanted to explore. The basic concept remained—there is still very much a serial killer in space underpinning the story—but the vast majority of the concept changed pretty immensely. I found that I had to imbue the concept with a lot more emotional depth to make it a story worth telling in novel format.
Foxhound is a well-developed character that keeps readers guessing as she uncovers more about her past throughout the book. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Creating Foxhound was an interesting exercise. I didn’t want to create a character that was too much like myself or anyone close to me, but I also needed to inject her characterization with elements of realism. She needed to be confident and self-assured—a function of her career—but she also needed to have some internal conflict, which relates to her larger story and will further unfold as the story continues. She’s a fun character to explore because she’s so task-driven, as her name suggests, but that drive is going to continue to unravel as she has to reckon with who she really is and where she comes from. Her self-assuredness comes less from actual confidence and more from her refusal to self-examine. So forcing her to take a look in the mirror is going to have a pretty big impact on her psyche and how she approaches things. I guess the larger point is that Foxhound is driven by a question we’re all forced to ask (and one that philosophers and artists have pondered for centuries): who (or what) are we, really?
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?
I’ve loved science fiction for most of my life. I remember watching Star Wars on VHS over and over again until the tapes themselves were getting warped. But the thing that I always loved the most about sci-fi stories was the human element. Sure, the spectacle is what drew me in, but starships and aliens only get the story so far. Ultimately, I believe sci-fi serves as a vessel for us to explore elements of humanity, be they positive or negative, world-altering in scope or incredibly personal and private. For my world, I wanted to really latch onto that human element and, in some ways, hold a mirror up to current events and developments. What made the most sense for the story I wanted to tell was to create a universe in which humans are utterly alone—there was no first contact, there are no aliens, etc. What do we do, as a species, when we have nothing to rely on but ourselves? So that’s where it all kind of started.
As I got to the writing, however, the world I was trying to create really bloomed. Again, Star Wars (the original trilogy) served as an inspiration—specifically the grittier locales. I remember very vividly how it felt to watch Luke and Obi-Wan walk into the cantina on Tattooine for the first time. It was inelegant, dirty, old, and full of ne’er-do-wells. I really wanted a lot of my locations to feel like that—not quite an apocalyptic dystopia, but like the stations and ships were always in a state of disrepair and just teetering on the brink of collapse. But arguably, the most important part of the setting emerged as I was writing. I realized that grittiness lacks a certain believability when overdone, so I made it a point to try and inject just enough hope and humanity—which, again, I feel like is a reflection of real life. Even in the worst places, there are still these bastions of hope, however small, where people are really trying to help one another survive (and not just for personal gain).
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
I’m in the process of writing book two right now, and I’m hoping to have it wrapped up well before the end of the year. If I can manage that, I’d expect to see book 2 released in early 2025, barring any unforeseen setbacks. Book two will also have a very different vibe, as it leaves behind the gritty edge of the solar system and centers the story on Earth, which is the center of everything—commerce, religion, society, etc. What I’m most excited about is showing that the glitz and gloss of this part of my universe isn’t really any better or safer—just that the facade is prettier. Things are going to get pretty dark, and I hope my readers are excited to go along for the ride.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | Website
So when she receives an urgent prisoner transfer request from a cult starship, she accepts the gig. She figures that transporting a bone marrow-eating serial killer from the cult’s colony back to Earth is just another well-paying job that’ll keep her mind off things. Upon discovering that the suspect in custody is an orphan girl—one that could pass for her much younger doppelgänger—she decides it’s time to get some answers.
Before she can piece together who the girl is and how their lives intertwine, a group of violent prisoners aboard Foxhound’s starship breaks free. As the once-peaceful cultists take up arms in response, the Contractor teams up with her mechanized AI assistant and two of the cult’s wayward members to stop the barbaric escapees and elude the grasp of the cult’s radicalized leader. And when that’s done, she can focus on figuring out the secret behind the mysterious, potentially dangerous girl—but will she even want to know the truth?
Tree Pose: Yoga Mat Mysteries Series (Audiobook)
Tasmania is the setting for the third installment of Susan Rogers and John Roosen’s Yoga Mat Mysteries. Tree Pose is the gripping follow-up to Rogers and Roosen’s Cobra Pose. Readers are reintroduced to Ric and Elaina and reminded of their budding romance and the perpetual drama threatening their union. What should be an enjoyable getaway and a chance to cement their relationship thrusts the couple into the precarious position of dodging the repercussions of Ric’s past. When Ric receives a mysterious text on a phone line known only to close associates, he quickly realizes their trip may take a deadly turn.
The audiobook version of Tree Pose, narrated by Rupert Degas, is not to be missed. Throughout the audiobook, the narration varies with a pleasing change of inflection from character to character, making each one equally memorable. Degas adds dramatic pauses and a sense of urgency to the action scenes, building apprehension and creating a fantastic feeling of fear and trepidation throughout the novel. Degas is equally adept at adding a softness to the tender moments Rogers and Roosen have created for main characters Ric and Elaina.
Rogers and Roosen have once more crafted a truly memorable cast of characters embroiled in a thrilling plot. Even though this is the third book and relates directly to events from the previous installments, readers will have no problem following the storyline as the authors have done a wonderful job of building the element of mystery for new readers and keeping fans of the series actively engaged.
I find the authors’ ability to intertwine multiple conflicts throughout the narrative especially appealing. Without leaving the primary conflict behind, they effortlessly manage to keep readers on their toes, following the threat on Elaina’s life as they blend in the desperate search to end a human trafficking conspiracy. There is no lack of action in Book 3, and the perfect assimilation of romance, humor, and mystery for fans of all three genres.
This audiobook captivates readers’ imaginations and draws them into the fascinating mystery behind Ric’s past and the anticipation of a lasting romance with Elaina. Rogers and Roosen never fail to pull readers into the plot and keep them guessing from chapter to chapter. The addition of Rupert Degas’ fantastic skills in audiobook narration makes this a highly recommended audiobook for mystery fans and those seeking a binge-worthy series.
Duration: 10hrs 19min | ASIN: B0D27B231B
Baseball Humor a Collection of Stories from Master Storytellers
Baseball, with its rich history and colorful characters like the irascible Yogi Berra, has enchanted fans for generations. Those who love the game revel in its subtle nuances, from every ground-rule double to dazzling outfield play. Yet, this sport, steeped in tradition, often ventures into the realm of the absurd and hilarious. The audiobook Baseball Humor: A Collection of Stories from Master Storytellers by Ward Paxton takes readers on a delightful journey through the eccentricities of baseball as told by some of the greatest sports fiction writers of all time.
This anthology is a cavalcade of excellent short fiction centered around baseball, with most tales originating from the 1910s and 1920s—a period when the game looked dramatically different from today. Readers will find themselves immersed in baseball’s bygone era, brought to life by literary titans such as Zane Grey and Ring Lardner. Paxton’s collection places readers in good hands. Passionate baseball fans will appreciate not only the meticulous dissection of the game and its cultural significance over a century ago but also the quirks and eccentricities of the fictional characters that make these stories special. While these tales are crafted from pure imagination, baseball historians will recognize the shades of real-life managers and players from the early years of the sport. In this collection, no one connected to baseball is spared from satire. The writers mercilessly ridicule managers, team owners, players’ wives, and even the fans. However, despite the frequent humiliation heaped on the protagonists, there’s an undeniable sense of admiration throughout.
The many authors featured in this anthology clearly cherish the game, even as they highlight some of its more ridiculous tendencies. This blend of good humor and genuine affection for baseball shines through most, making Baseball Humor: A Collection of Stories from Master Storytellers a true winner. Fans of the sport and lovers of well-crafted fiction alike will find much to enjoy in this engaging and entertaining collection.
Listening Length 8 Hours and 10 minutes | ASIN : B0CZF7JL43
Love, Rage, and Deception
Love, Rage, and Deception is a riveting novel set in London, weaving a tale of family, betrayal, and unexpected kinships. The story follows the tumultuous lives of siblings Kathy and Charles Thomas, who navigate through familial expectations, societal pressures, and personal aspirations. The narrative is deeply rooted in their household’s hidden secrets and the poignant bond they share, which is tested by external conflicts and internal struggles.
The writing is evocative, drawing readers into the historical and emotional landscapes with vivid descriptions and emotional depth. The depiction of the Thomas family’s home, with its secluded charm and the warmth it brings to its inhabitants, serves as a perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama. The author excels in creating a setting that feels both timeless and tangible, making the reader almost feel the cobblestone paths and the cold London winters. One of the novel’s strengths is its character development. Kathy and Charles are portrayed with such authenticity that their growth feels natural and relatable. Kathy’s journey from a spirited child to a burdened young woman, and Charles’ evolution from a supportive brother to a young man grappling with his own identity, are central to the book’s emotional impact. The siblings’ relationship is depicted with nuance, highlighting both their unspoken understanding and the conflicts that arise from their differing paths. The pacing of the story is masterfully handled, allowing the story to unfold with just the right balance of tension and introspection. Each scene is meticulously crafted to build upon the previous one, creating a seamless flow that keeps the reader fully immersed. The author skillfully intersperses moments of high drama with quieter, reflective passages, giving readers time to absorb the emotional weight of the events. This dynamic pacing ensures that the narrative remains engaging and never feels rushed, allowing for a deeper connection with the characters and their journeys.
Love, Rage, and Deception is a fascinating read for those who enjoy historical dramas filled with rich character studies and emotional depth. It is particularly well-suited for readers who appreciate family sagas and the exploration of complex sibling dynamics.
Pages: 226 | ASIN : B09BWP9RGT
Round the Twist: Facing the Abdominable
Lisa Febre, a talented musician and yoga enthusiast, brings her creative flair to her memoir Round the Twist: Facing the Abdominable, which centers on her journey with colon cancer. The title’s play on the word “Abdominable” immediately grabs attention and sets the tone for the book’s blend of humor and inspiration. Febre masterfully weaves her story, offering an unembellished account of her medical experiences while highlighting the critical role of companionship. This memoir not only addresses the physical battle against cancer but also delves into the profound self-reflection that accompanies it.
Febre’s writing is remarkably engaging and transparent. Her vivid recollections, complemented by her reliance on the memories of others, bring authenticity to her narrative. Her storytelling is rich with personality and character, particularly in the way she uses metaphors. A standout story involves her dog, Dusty, who had to wear a cone after an injury. Once freed from it, Dusty destroys the cone, symbolizing Febre’s determination to overcome cancer and chemotherapy, her own “cone,” and envisions tearing it apart. Another poignant section of the memoir deals with the varied reactions of her friends to her diagnosis. Some friends became distant, a reaction that initially upset Febre but one she eventually understood. This part of the book is especially valuable for readers who may be unsure how to support loved ones with a cancer diagnosis. Febre candidly discusses how certain well-meaning phrases can be unhelpful, providing insight into the emotional landscape of cancer patients. Round the Twist is an invaluable memoir not only for those facing cancer but also for medical professionals. Febre extensively acknowledges the crucial support and care she received while also highlighting moments of neglect from some healthcare providers. These experiences underline the importance of seeing patients as individuals rather than just diagnoses. The clarity with which Febre addresses the impact of compassionate care makes this book a must-read for both patients and physicians, emphasizing the human element in medical treatment.
Round the Twist: Facing the Abdominable is a heartfelt and insightful memoir that combines humor, honesty, and profound life lessons. Febre’s ability to inspire and educate through her personal journey makes this book a compelling read for anyone navigating the challenges of cancer or seeking to better understand the patient experience.
Pages: 297 | ASIN : B0CB1SQQLD
LITERARY TITAN 