Blog Archives
Blood Daggers: Thomas Berenford Chronicles
In Blood Dagger: Thomas Berenford Chronicles, Joseph Schwartz immerses readers in the enthralling journey of Thomas Berenford, a seasoned warrior seeking peace in a tranquil fishing town. However, his quest for solitude is persistently disrupted by three “pests”: a trouble-prone young boy with a heart of gold, an aging brothel madam with enough wealth to keep him staying, and the boy’s fiery cousin, a skilled warrior with a sword. Further complicating his plans are ruthless bosses, brutal thugs, cunning prostitutes, a menacing swamp monster, a hybrid assassin, and sorcerers threatening to lead them all to doom. Drawn unexpectedly into a civil war, Thomas must find a way to end the conflict and finally achieve his long-awaited quiet.
Schwartz skillfully portrays Berenford’s perceptive nature and strategic insight, vividly showcased in confrontations where he maneuvers through insults, intimidation, and fierce battles with palpable danger. Each chapter captivates with a blend of humor, action, and a keen sense of peril, drawing readers deeper into Berenford’s tumultuous world. The final chapter brings a reflective close to Berenford’s journey, as he muses on the legends of enchanted swords and his whimsically named blade, “Wilma,” hinting at mystical undertones amid his quest for peace. Berenford’s decision to venture west into uncharted territories resonates with themes of personal growth and the allure of new adventures, leaving readers with a sense of fulfillment while anticipating future exploits in this richly imagined universe.
The narrative transcends its fantasy setting, touching on universal themes such as the search for peace in a chaotic world, the struggle for survival against overwhelming odds, and the unexpected connections that form between individuals and their tools. Thomas is a relatable hero for modern readers, embodying the timeless quest for meaning and purpose amid life’s unpredictability. The novel’s blend of gritty realism and fantastical elements ensures a captivating read, resonating with anyone who has ever faced their own “pests” and fought to carve out a space of their own in a tumultuous world.
From a technical perspective, the book exhibits a high level of craftsmanship in its world-building, character development, and narrative structure. The protagonist’s voice is consistent and compelling, blending a seasoned warrior’s pragmatism with moments of introspective depth and wry humor. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with action-packed scenes interspersed with quieter, more contemplative moments, allowing readers to fully engage with the protagonist’s internal and external conflicts. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, revealing character traits and advancing the plot without resorting to exposition. Schwartz’s use of language is both precise and evocative, creating a richly textured narrative that immerses readers in the gritty, perilous world of Thomas Berenford. The integration of fantasy elements, such as the interaction between Thomas and his sword Wilma, is seamlessly woven into the story, adding layers of intrigue and complexity without overshadowing the central narrative. This balance between realism and fantasy enhances the relatability of the story, allowing readers to connect with the universal themes of survival, resilience, and the quest for meaning.
Blood Dagger: Thomas Berenford Chronicles is a masterfully crafted novel that combines engaging storytelling with technical excellence, making it a standout addition to the fantasy genre. Schwartz’s ability to blend action, humor, and introspection within a richly detailed world ensures that readers will be both entertained and moved by Thomas Berenford’s journey.
Pages: 194 | ASIN : B0CWP8TDHS
Let’s Meet Blockchain Technology Changing for Working, Creating, and Playing
There is still so much to learn about technology, and many people often find themselves left behind. Sylvain Metz aims to bridge this gap with his book Let’s Meet Blockchain. This engaging and accessible primer on blockchain technology is designed for readers who might find the subject daunting or overly complex. Metz demystifies blockchain using straightforward language and a wealth of examples, ensuring that even those without a technical background can grasp its concepts and applications. The book is logically structured, providing a comprehensive background that covers the history and current usage of this technology.
One of Metz’s key focuses is the issue of privacy in relation to blockchain. His methodical approach introduces and discusses this concept in a way that flows naturally, guiding the reader from ancient record-keeping practices through medieval Europe to the modern challenges posed by digital data collection and surveillance. This meticulous breakdown of material is consistent throughout the book, making complex subjects accessible and engaging. Metz draws from numerous sources, including white papers, journal articles, and expert writings. This thorough approach is complemented by detailed footnotes and a bibliography, encouraging readers to delve deeper into topics of interest. Metz’s writing style is engaging, making the material simple to understand, even for those who primarily use computers for basic tasks. Despite some overly casual attempts, like the slogan “What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas,” his laid-back tone creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages further reading and exploration. Metz also maintains a notably neutral stance, allowing readers to form their own opinions about blockchain technology. He presents the facts without advocating for or against its adoption, a refreshing approach that respects the reader’s autonomy. This neutrality ensures that the information is disseminated objectively, providing a balanced perspective on blockchain technology.
By the end of Let’s Meet Blockchain, readers will have a solid foundation in blockchain technology and its various applications. They will also gain a clearer understanding of the ongoing debates surrounding privacy and data security in the digital age. Metz’s book is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to dip their toes into the world of blockchain, offering credible and well-researched information. It is an excellent guide for beginners, enabling them to have well-informed and coherent conversations about blockchain without overwhelming them with technical jargon.
Pages: 399 | ASIN : B0CHXHW9SJ
What Are We Going to Do With Tyrone Jr.?
David Grant’s What Are We Going to Do with Tyrone Jr.? is a poignant and stirring narrative that dives deep into the complexities of raising a child with autism while navigating the relentless challenges of societal judgment and personal sacrifice. The story revolves around Tyrone Washington, a father struggling to provide the best life for his son, Tyrone Jr., who is on the autism spectrum. Through a series of trials, including courtroom battles, misunderstandings, and heartfelt moments, Grant masterfully paints a picture of resilience, love, and unwavering dedication.
One of the most compelling aspects of this book is its authenticity. Grant’s depiction of the everyday struggles faced by Tyrone and his family feels incredibly real and relatable. In Chapter 1, we see the frantic search for Tyrone Jr. in a mall, which sets the tone for the many anxieties and fears that follow. This scene not only hooks the reader but also establishes the raw emotion that permeates the entire narrative. The author’s ability to convey such genuine emotions is commendable and adds a layer of depth to the characters that make them memorable. Another standout element is the narrative’s exploration of societal issues. The book does not shy away from depicting the prejudices and systemic challenges faced by families dealing with autism. Grant’s background as a military officer also brings an interesting perspective to these issues, adding a unique dimension to the story. The dialogues are strong and natural, and the reflective moments offer a deeper insight into Tyrone’s internal struggles and add to the story’s emotional weight.
What Are We Going to Do with Tyrone Jr.? is a heartfelt and impactful read that will resonate with anyone who has faced adversity while caring for a loved one. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength of family and the importance of compassion in our interactions with others. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy emotionally charged stories with strong character development and those interested in understanding more about the challenges faced by families dealing with autism. David Grant has crafted a narrative that is both enlightening and moving, making it a valuable addition to contemporary fiction.
Pages: 257 | ASIN : B0CZ4D33NY
Supercharging Sustainability: A Big-Picture Overview of ESG 2.0 and Sustainable Finance
As the global environmental crisis deepens daily, the need to integrate sustainable practices into everyday life and business operations becomes increasingly pressing. Achieving sustainability is a multifaceted challenge that demands expert guidance and strategic planning. Bjarni Herrera’s Supercharging Sustainability serves as an essential guide in this arena, particularly focusing on sustainable finance. Herrera demystifies the expansive subject of sustainability with clarity and precision. He argues that a company can more easily model its operations sustainably by aligning with current global realities. Given the complexity and potential frustrations of pursuing sustainability, this book becomes an invaluable resource. It acts as a navigational tool for professionals in the corporate and finance sectors, providing a detailed and comprehensive roadmap for implementing sustainability.
Supercharging Sustainability is rich in practical insights and presents clear, actionable ideas tailored to specific scenarios while maintaining a broad perspective. Herrera’s extensive knowledge and hands-on experience are evident throughout, making complex concepts accessible and digestible. His long-standing dedication to sustainability is reflected in his authoritative and skilled presentation of the topic, supported by thorough research and real-world examples. These examples equip readers with the necessary tools to effectively apply sustainability practices within their organizations. Herrera ensures that the subject matter is accessible without sacrificing depth or thoroughness. Although the book’s comprehensive coverage may initially seem daunting, it rewards readers who engage with its content thoughtfully and methodically. This book equips readers with a deep well of knowledge, enhancing their understanding of sustainable finance and offering practical examples and straightforward writing to aid their learning process. It functions almost like a textbook, both inspiring action toward global sustainability goals and providing clear directions on how to achieve them.
Bjarni Herrera’s approach and expertise make Supercharging Sustainability a near masterclass in the field. This book is an excellent starting point for understanding sustainability and devising effective strategies for sustainable business practices.
Pages: 348 | ASIN : B0D4JFJHZZ
An Everyday Hero
The Godfather of Dance follows a determined new journalist who is eager to write a career-defining article and solve the unsolved murder of her dance instructor’s fiancée. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration was derived from a few elements. Jade, my protagonist, evolved over time. I wrote about her in several books that weren’t published before she finally took shape in The Godfather of Dance. Initially, she was older, married, with kids, but for this story, it made more sense for her to be younger. Among other things, as an unmarried woman, she had the opportunity to develop a will-they-won’t-they romance with Anton.
The setting came from the five years I spent living in The Woodlands, Texas. This planned community is so picture-perfect it just begged for an underbelly as a counterpoint.
Anton’s character was inspired by my dance instructor in Houston, although once he hit the page, he took on a life of his own and became a wonderfully flawed character who’d grown up in a crime family. Right from the first drafts, I knew he was in hiding from his father, who he suspected of killing his fiancée.
Jade Riley is a woman with strength and intelligence. What do you think makes her a valuable and worthy heroine?
I wanted to create an everyday hero who did things for the most part that any regular person could do. I don’t have a background in the police or FBI, so I couldn’t write such a character as convincingly as someone who has. I didn’t give Jade amazing ‘superhero’ strengths, although she takes chances that are probably beyond most people’s capacity for risk-taking. Her value comes from her determination, courage, and intellect.
What was the hardest part about writing a mystery story, where you constantly have to give just enough to keep the mystery alive until the big reveal?
Writing a mystery is a bit like a jigsaw puzzle. As the author, you know where all the pieces are—at least you figure them out along the way—but deciding when and how to reveal each new piece of information to the reader is the challenge. Once I have the story down, I move the chapters around to figure out how to maximize the drama. Often, I move reveals to later in the story to maintain the tension.
On the other hand, I’m always careful not to hold back too much, as I like the idea of readers having the chance to figure it out, or to be able to look back and see something in the story that in hindsight makes everything that follows make sense.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Jade Riley and the direction of the second book?
Book two, A Killer Among Friends, is out in December.
Journalist Jade returns from abroad to her hometown, Melbourne. Soon after, her friend Nick is found dead in a dumpster. She turns to their tight-knit circle for answers, only to uncover a web of lies.
Mounting evidence suggests her best friend Elena’s suicide three years earlier is connected. Was she, too, murdered?
As Jade closes in on the killer, she realizes the suspects are all people she loves. Her life depends on knowing which of them to trust.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Journalist Jade is determined to write a career-defining article. Her dance instructor Anton wants to know who killed his fiancée. Caught between the glamorous world of ballroom dance and Anton’s dark past in the Valencio crime family, can they solve the murder before they become the next targets?
Anton’s sister, desperate to protect family secrets, tries to stop the investigation. The siblings are on a collision course, challenging the Valencio maxim: loyalty to family no matter what.
Attitude is Everything
In The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac, young readers will explore farm life with two grandparents who lovingly tend their animals and demonstrate the importance of hard work. What inspired you to write this story?
The answer to that question is simple, my parents. The characters in the series The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac are based on my mom and dad and the values, integrity, and importance of a job well done that they instilled in me and my brother. Mr. Mac, my father, Mr. McClure, is a retired veteran with the nickname Mac. My mother’s name is Jean Kingsberry and my father refers to her as Granny Jay Kay. When I was younger and growing up in the country we always had a large garden, animals, and chores that needed tending to. Looking back there were times the chores seemed never-ending yet my parents in no way swayed from the responsibility and taught us to do the same. They demonstrated the satisfaction of what hard work can bring. This is something I’ve carried with me throughout my life and feel the need to share and pass along as well. Although the other stories in the series move away from the farm, taking them on a variety of adventures, you will find underlying lessons in all the books. This first story, however, pays tribute to the love and respect I have for my parents and the deep values they taught me growing up. My hope is others will journey through their adventures and be encouraged to find their path and sense of belonging.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One of the main ideas I want to capture in my books and in life is that attitude is everything. If we keep an open mind and a positive attitude, all is better. From completing a simple task to the most difficult, we can determine how we react, positive or negative. In life there will always be a “chore” needing to be completed and venturing in with a negative attitude just makes things that much more unbearable vs. completing something with a positive mindset, giving it your all, and then allowing yourself to feel a sense of accomplishment when it is achieved can and will be so much more rewarding. I also wanted to share the importance of slowing down, resting, and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us like standing on a porch watching fireflies with your mom.
The artwork in your book is wonderful. What was it like to collaborate with illustrator Jenna Jordan?
Jenna Jordan is a kind, beautiful soul. I so enjoyed how she took the words from my head and portrayed them on paper. With her simple but impactful illustration style, she completely brought the characters and stories to life. She is a pleasure to work with, goes above and beyond, and I will always be grateful to her for bringing Mr. Mac and Granny Jay Kay into reality!
Can we look forward to seeing more books from you soon? What are you currently working on?
As I shared, The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac is a series. As of now there are five adventures that either Mr. Mac, or Mr. Mac and Granny venture on. Each story stands on its own, yet also works together as they progress through the tales. For the most part everything is written and illustrated. Currently though, Jenna and I are fine tuning some of the illustrations for book two, The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac, The Magic Trap with The Poke-A-Dot Cap, and I hope to begin working with my publisher, Yorkshire Publishing, for its release soon. We are both excited and looking forward to seeing Mr. Mac and Granny continue their journey.
Author Links: Facebook | Instagram
Nature’s Creatures – Wellness Teachers
In Nature’s Creatures – Wellness Teachers, by Annie Yu, young Riley experiences a series of unfortunate events that culminate in a challenging day. His troubles begin with a fall down the stairs, continue with a mishap at breakfast, and peak with an embarrassing moment at school when his pants fall down. Understandably, Riley is eager for the day to end. Upon returning home, Riley’s grandfather senses his disheartenment and suggests a walk together. During their stroll, his grandfather imparts wisdom, explaining that some of life’s best lessons are derived from nature’s creatures. Through this walk, Riley discovers valuable lessons: a snail teaches him that life isn’t always a race, and bees demonstrate the joy and efficiency of teamwork. Encountering various animals, Riley learns from each one and returns home uplifted and inspired by their examples.
I found this story exceptionally engaging because the lessons conveyed through the animals are universally applicable, regardless of age. The narrative encourages readers to reflect on each lesson and consider how to incorporate them into their own lives. The story emphasizes the importance of slowing down to appreciate our surroundings and the benefits of collaboration over solitary effort. These insights are especially valuable in today’s fast-paced world.
The illustrations, by Maggie Chen, complement the story beautifully, adding vibrancy and detail. Among my favorites are the bird illustrations, which are so intricately detailed they appear almost lifelike. What is particularly commendable about Annie Yu is her background as a physician and wellness advocate. Her passion for promoting health and well-being shines through in this book, making it not only an enjoyable read for children but also a resource for adults to derive meaningful lessons. The book adeptly encourages wellness and happiness for readers of all ages.
Nature’s Creatures – Wellness Teachers is a delightful and educational addition to any child’s library. Riley’s journey is heartwarming and thought-provoking, making it a highly recommended read. This book is sure to impart valuable life lessons while captivating readers with its charming story and illustrations.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CQG2B7YF
Cancer Culture: Fixing the Landscape by Infusing Empathy
Cancer Culture: Fixing the Landscape by Infusing Empathy by Jacqueline Acho, PhD, is a heartfelt and profoundly insightful memoir that navigates the complex and often overwhelming journey of a cancer diagnosis. Drawing from her own experiences with high-grade serous ovarian cancer, Acho weaves together personal anecdotes, scientific knowledge, and a powerful call for empathy in cancer care. The book is structured into several parts, each delving into different aspects of cancer treatment, patient empowerment, and the emotional and spiritual lessons gleaned from living with cancer.
Acho’s writing is both deeply personal and universally relatable, making the reader feel intimately connected to her journey. Her ability to convey the importance of empathy in the medical field is compelling. One of the most striking features of the book is Acho’s honesty about the failures and successes of current cancer treatments. She candidly discusses the limitations of chemotherapy and the lack of progress in cancer research despite significant investments. Her critique of the “cancer industrial complex” is eye-opening and urges readers to reconsider the systemic issues within healthcare. Acho’s exploration of alternative and complementary therapies is another strong point of the book. She details her experiences with various non-toxic cancer therapies, providing valuable insights for those seeking holistic approaches to treatment. This chapter is a treasure trove of information for anyone looking to supplement conventional treatments with alternative methods, emphasizing the importance of a balanced, integrative approach to cancer care.
Cancer Culture: Fixing the Landscape by Infusing Empathy is an essential read for anyone touched by cancer, whether directly or through a loved one. Acho’s memoir is not just a recount of her battle with cancer but a manifesto for change in how we approach cancer treatment and care. Her emphasis on empathy, holistic health, and the integration of personal and professional experiences provides a comprehensive guide for patients, caregivers, and medical professionals. This book is particularly valuable for those newly diagnosed healthcare providers looking to enhance their empathetic practices and anyone interested in the broader systemic issues of cancer care.
Pages: 373 | ASIN : B0D1X1YNFB
LITERARY TITAN 