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In Search of a Happy Ending

In Search of a Happy Ending by [Rosa Jordan]

A terminal illness comes as a surprise to Eve Austin. The indignation that has swept Eve, a newly divorced woman in her mid-30s, over her disbelief about her imminent fate has been overwhelming. After joining a writing group where members alike cloak their private lives and disguise realities, Eve finds that her search for a happy ending is replaced with something more meaningful. During the bi-monthly meeting of a seven-member group, Eve, a recluse awaiting her fate, changes abruptly into a woman who learns that not every story has to have a happy ending and that what matters most is what lies in the middle chapters of life.

The plot of this sentimental novel, the second by author Rosa Jordan, features diverse characters, from an eighty-two-year-old blunt Hector to a 21-year-old self-contained foster girl named Raynee. It is Eve who helps the reader understand not only her own mental frame but that of the other characters as well. It’s not just the character’s psychological development that the reader gets to see, but their somewhat tumultuous personal lives as well. It presents Hector and Golda as orthodox married couples, with Golda always willing to submit to Hector’s domineering nature. However, the eccentric affection between them is a very touching element of the novel.

Despite presenting the most vulnerable phases of someone’s life in a novel, the author brings in humorous elements as well. I appreciate the author’s ability to help the reader notice even the smallest change in emotions and thoughts within the characters. The novel shines due to its subtle observations, typically seen through the viewpoint of Eve. I believe there is no such thing as a favorite character in the novel because all of them have characteristics I could admire and dislike at the same time.

The writing group stories play a key part in the development of the characters. There are a variety of different stories told by the characters so readers of all interests will be able to find one that appeals to them especially those who enjoy the subtleties of human emotions.

In Search of a Happy Ending by Rosa Jordan captivates readers with dynamic characters that learn and grow from one another. Each chapter of the novel creates a strong surge of emotions in the reader. This is a story about people with dual lives and demeanors and a generous heart. By walking their paths, they learn and teach what it means to live for themselves and others. 

Pages: 335 | ASIN: B09KDDQDJR

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Inside Out

Author Interview
Michael Tuberdyke Author Interview

Inside Out shares the stories of various people and the intriguing lives they live. What inspired you to write this story?

I think I was initially inspired by the Edmund Goulding film, “The Grand Hotel,” which stars Greta Garbo and John Barrymore. I liked the idea of these very different but unique individuals who all cross paths one evening staying at this elaborate Berlin Hotel and this, that, and the other thing happens. I wanted to do something like that for awhile, but I couldn’t figure out how to be honest with the idea and do it on my level.

Your characters are interesting and well developed. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?

Thank you. The only thing that concerns me when it comes to developing characters is that they remain individuals. I have a deep respect for any one who can maintain their individuality, especially today when personally, I feel that everything is very categorized. I really hate that. I think too with the characters specific to this book they all go against who they believe themselves to be. They say something or do something that doesn’t quite match their personality and that to me is very interesting.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

My idea was mainly to showcase how individuals have a basic need to communicate their ideas to one another, but being that they are essentially islands they have no idea how to. For me, that idea is very personal because I don’t really know what to say to people or how to act when I’m with them and I think that is a universal thing, at least with the people I know.  

What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?

I’ve been working on a short story collection, “This Thing Called Love.” The title is the same as the main short story of the collection, which is themed around belief. I’m hoping this collection will be out by Summer of ’22.

Author Links: Amazon | Website | instagram

On Exchange Street near the edge of town stands a building three stories high beside a parking lot where weeds have overtaken the asphalt.
The property is owned by Marge. Her name is painted in green on a piece of plywood that sits above the entryway to the diner on the first floor.
There are four separate apartments on the additional two floors. Three are occupied. The tenants are young and old. They are simple people whom like the building itself reside on the edge of town with walls, which conceal them from the world outside.

Inside Out

Inside Out by [Michael Tuberdyke]

It is amazing how people can be so different yet so connected by some cosmic force. Marge manages a building in an obscure corner. In the building three units are occupied. Each tenant leads a different life. Each tenant lives as though the next tenant does not exist. This is sort of a commentary on how most of the world lies today. Todd Brown likes his music. Mr. Andrews is lonely and possibly broke. Nick and Claire’s union might be on its last leg. They might as well be strangers living in the same space.

In this book thought-provoking book we take a look at the lives of average people. Have you ever walked by a building and wondered about the people who live in there? Inside Out provides the reader with an opportunity to be a fly on the wall. It satisfies a curiosity we have all had at least once. On the street, everyone seems normal. They are simply faces going about their businesses. In their own homes, they take off whatever masks they may wear out in public and let their true selves roam around the rooms. This book may be fiction but it is an accurate and intriguing representation of life.

Michael Tuberdyke is an excellent writer. His depiction of each of the characters is detailed and gives their character a compelling depth. The author lets the reader deep into the psyche of the characters to see how they think. As a reader, you can almost picture the look on Nick’s face every time Claire chooses work over spending time with him. You can hear the disappointment in his words. The characters in this book are relatable, perhaps because they so accurately represent the population.

Inside Out is quick read that will leave readers thinking deeply about the community they live in and the people they come across. This is book provides a fascinating look at the lives of some interesting people, and provides readers with a thoughtful exploration and character examination through the easy storytelling ability of author Michael J. Tuberdyke.

Pages: 73 | ASIN: B09JS5VCL2

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Finding Grace

Finding Grace by Gary Lee Miller is an inspirational story about Judith Lee, a young girl who faces many challenges growing up in poverty and lacking resources. Throughout childhood, she struggles with fitting in and is often bullied, though her intelligence and savvy business skills give her a significant advantage later in life. Judith Lee conquers all odds to become wealthy and successful in business.

The author details Judith Lee’s struggles from the beginning of the book, which begins at a quick pace. You’ll pick up and follow Judith through an intense and emotionally-resonant journey across the country with a sense of adventure and excitement embedded in the story that is effortlessly mixed with a sense of uncertainty. This story carefully details her travel across each state and town by bus, where she encounters new people and experiences, which give her a new way to embrace life and its challenges.

Judith Lee’s tale is a thought-provoking personal story that provides readers with a compassionate, down-to-earth account of one person’s relentless journey to strive for the best in life. This story offers an extraordinary tale of personal transformation with a whirlwind of emotion, excitement, and struggles along the way. I loved the story because things were always moving forward, never feeling stale, but without feeling like we’re being rushed. This speaks to the fantastic writing ability of Gary Lee Miller. When the twists come, they’re exciting, but still feel grounded.

I found this book to be an excellent, inspiring read. It’s the ideal story to enjoy over a relaxing weekend or on your next commute to work. Judith Lee’s tale gives readers a sense that anything is achievable, even in the most challenging situations. It’s a very touching, human story interlaced with a strong determination for success and connection.

This book is a must-read if you are looking for a feel-good boost and emotional experience. Finding Grace by Gary Lee Miller is a well-written, captivating story of human triumph and finding your way in a complex world of challenges and uncertainties.

Pages: 282 | ISBN: 1631956590

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User

User. by [Fivos Panayiotou]

User, by Fivos Panayiotou, is the recollection of true experiences involving domestic abuse over time. The main character, Brondo, finds himself in a relationship that he believed was the best thing to ever happen to him. Over time, he realizes the manipulation at hand, and is left to wonder how he got to that point in his life.

The book begins with the main character feeling so depressed about his life that he contemplates suicide. Brondo is introduced to Sheena online and they form a relationship. Sheena tells Brondo she has dealt with abuse in her marriage and because she has children with him, she feels stuck. Brondo starts to fall for Sheena the more they get to know each other and four months into their relationship he believes he has met his soulmate. Throughout the story Brondo is manipulated, used, disrespected, and violated by Sheena. Who you believe to be a victim at the beginning of the story is revealed to be the abuser of this relationship.

Panayiotou has a writing style that is explicit in verbiage and very raw. Throughout the book, Panayiotou introduces difficult topics such as emotional and physical abuse, molestation, and rape. The events depicted in this story are not sugar-coated, and this may be difficult for some to read, but it definitely paints a vivid and realistic picture. The characters in this story were relatable, and they depicted bad qualities you see in real-life individuals.

The raw truth throughout this story is truly heart-wrenching. Reading the graphic details of what this character went through, I felt events from my own past resurface. When reading this book, I felt as if I was right there with the main character.

User, by Fivos Panayiotou, is a riveting, authentic, and impassioned story that will stir the soul. I would not recommend this book to anyone who has experienced emotional, physical, or sexual abuse.

Pages: 241 | ASIN: B08ZRWSJ3M

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