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Madly Deeply Wildly
Katherine Turner’s Madly Deeply Wildly is a poignant and emotionally charged story of a woman’s journey toward healing, self-discovery, and love. The novel follows Renata, a writer who has lost her words, as she finds the courage to leave her abusive boyfriend after several years of physical and emotional abuse. Renata moves back to her hometown and takes a job as a cashier at a local cafe, where she forms strong bonds with the people around her, who become her chosen family. Along the way, she begins dating Chad, a goofy yet observant baker, and slowly begins to disentangle her painful past from her present.
Madly Deeply Wildly is an engaging and well-written novel that adeptly captures the complex emotions of a victim of gaslighting, domestic abuse, and rape post-trauma. Renata’s journey is raw and authentic, with the readers rooting for her to overcome the scars of her past and live her best life. Turner’s portrayal of the conflicting thoughts and feelings that plague Renata on a daily basis is heart-wrenching and realistic, making it easy to empathize with her struggles. While the novel’s pacing is swift, with the story delving straight into grief and abuse at the beginning, the plot’s development is engaging and well-structured. The romantic subplot between Renata and Chad is undeniably adorable, although some readers might find the romance to be too fast-paced, given Renata’s past and ongoing PTSD. Furthermore, while Chad is written as the ideal book boyfriend, some readers may find his character to be too perfect, but he is precisely what Renata needs at the time.
Turner has written an uplifting and inspiring novel that illustrates the power of resilience, love, and self-discovery in overcoming past traumas. The supporting characters are endearing, and readers will find themselves invested in their lives outside of Renata’s story. Ultimately, Madly Deeply Wildly is a must-read for anyone who has experienced trauma and is looking for hope and inspiration to overcome their struggles.
Pages: 378 | ASIN : B0BZMQSZGV
Where Liberty Lies
Where Liberty Lies by Nathaniel M. Wrey is a captivating continuation of the journey of Aminatra, Finbarl, Karlmon, and their companion Bokanda. Departing from the mountains, the group discovers a lush environment, replete with new life forms but also fraught with dangerous encounters with wild animals and ferrals. Nonetheless, this environment brings hope to their quest to find Madelaton. However, as their journey progresses, the group expands with new and unexpected members before they are abruptly torn apart, leaving them to confront the trials of survival alone. Will they reunite or succumb to the challenges in their path?
Wrey’s masterful storytelling in Where Liberty Lies delivers a gripping narrative filled with a thrilling blend of action and adventure. The plot brims with an abundance of unexpected twists and turns, provoking a sense of anxiety and excitement that sustains throughout the book. The novel’s midpoint marks a significant shift in the plot, adding to the intrigue and keeping readers engaged until the end. The characters in Where Liberty Lies are equally compelling. Aminatra, the strong and caring mother of Karlmon, is a standout character whose resilience and fortitude are thoroughly explored in the story. Finbarl, Aminatra’s husband, exemplifies loyalty and protection, treating Karlmon as his own child and consistently placing the family’s welfare first. The supporting characters are equally noteworthy, and although Bokanda’s role was limited, it was essential, and he served his purpose well. Maddy, another character in the novel, is unforgettable, and readers will appreciate her unique qualities.
Overall, Where Liberty Lies delivers a seamless plot that expertly progresses. The story’s twists and turns are perfectly executed, and the characters are well-rounded and memorable. Nathaniel M. Wrey’s writing style engages the reader and keeps them invested in the story, leaving a lasting impression long after turning the last page. Fans of adventure, fantasy, and action will undoubtedly appreciate this second installment in the trilogy and anticipate the third book’s release.
Pages: 472 | ASIN : B0BYT73W8N
Sednaam: The Heart of the Earth
Lilia Zamoyska, a creative and imaginative 13-year-old, resides with her parents in Poland. Her passions include art and daydreaming, often losing herself in vivid fantasies of elves and otherworldly realms. Filled with an unyielding hope that she will one day discover a hidden world, Lilia finds solace in her affections for her neighbor and schoolmate Jack, who is two years her senior. During a foray into the forest to gather flowers for her mother’s birthday, Lilia becomes lost, only to unexpectedly encounter Jack. As they attempt to find their way back home, they inadvertently stumble upon the enigmatic realm of Sednaam. The duo uncovers a world brimming with magic, diverse cultures, and intriguing inhabitants. But will Lilia and Jack ever return to their own world?
Sednaam: The Heart of the Earth by Klaudia Sonas is a mesmerizing tale that transports readers to a hidden, magical world that exists just beyond the veil of our own. The allure of these subterranean realms lies in their inherent sense of wonder and mystery. Sednaam’s rich history and its multifaceted denizens prove to be truly enthralling. Lilia is a charming and engaging protagonist whose daydreams and introspective nature captivate readers. With a love for flowers, a passion for reading, English classes, and her neighbor Jack, Lilia’s character resonates with an air of authenticity. Though somewhat introverted, she possesses a remarkable adventurous spirit and exhibits intelligence beyond her years. While the primary characters, Lilia and Jack, are well-crafted, some secondary characters could benefit from further development and backstory, but this might happen in the rest of the series. However, the narrative remains accessible and enjoyable for readers across a wide age range.
Sednaam: The Heart of the Earth is an enthralling young adult fantasy novel. It is the perfect choice for those who delight in immersing themselves in magical worlds brimming with adventure and mystery. The enchanting journey of Lilia and Jack through Sednaam is one you won’t want to miss.
Pages: 294 | ASIN : B0BXHQRNC7
Starship Malaysia
Starship Malaysia by Keith Costelloe is an exceptional young adult novel that offers a riveting combination of adventure, sports, travel, love, and friendship. The protagonist, Scott Mitchell, is a teenager who struggles with anger issues after his parent’s separation. His life takes a dramatic turn after his father’s sudden death and his subsequent relocation to Malaysia, where he faces the challenge of adjusting to a new culture. He soon forms a team with a group of volleyball players who become more like brothers to him. Scott wishes to be a reporter and takes daily reports on his pressman to communicate with his best friend, Waz, in Palo Alto. Join Scott and his friends as they tackle human trafficking in their own way, despite their age.
The novel offers a realistic portrayal of teenage life as Scott and his friends navigate the challenges of growing up, making new friends, and dealing with school. However, the novel also tackles more serious themes such as human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and child abuse. Through the boys’ heroic acts to combat these issues, readers are enlightened on the atrocities women face in countries with fewer rights and the dangers of trafficking. The author’s writing style is engaging, and the characters are well-developed, making them relatable and fun to read about. Scott, in particular, is an intelligent and daring person. I loved his sense of loyalty and courage in the face of difficult situations times. I commend the author for using this book as a medium for enlightening readers about human trafficking, which is a global menace that needs to be tackled.
Starship Malaysia is an informative and entertaining young adult novel. Sometimes I couldn’t help but laugh at the boys’ banter, and other times I was hooked on the suspense, thinking of what would happen to them next. I recommend this book to anyone who loves adventure and YA novels.
Pages: 255 | ASIN : B0BTJ8H5JC
To Help Just One
In To Help Just One, author Thusitha L. Perera presents a refreshing and insightful perspective on mental health discussions that frequently permeate public discourse. Through skillful storytelling, Perera offers valuable guidance on navigating the complexities of mental health challenges.
The narrative is structured around three engaging stories centered on the lives of Jonathan, Lawrence, and Tegan. As readers journey through the characters’ formative years, Perera expertly interweaves their individual experiences, illustrating how they confront various mental health issues. The book addresses a range of weighty topics, including addiction, toxic work environments, and the significance of support groups, with thought-provoking nuance and sensitivity.
To Help Just One champions the power of individual resilience in overcoming mental health challenges while emphasizing the critical importance of seeking help from others. The author employs clear, impactful language that facilitates an effortless connection between readers and the characters, as well as their struggles. There are times when the book proceeds at a slow pace, as Perera’s writing dwell in introspective moments. This adds depth to the characters, giving readers time to reflect as well. Those who appreciate delving into the inner thoughts and emotions of characters will find the author’s writing style immensely rewarding. Perera’s vivid and immersive descriptions contribute to a rich reading experience. The prose is detailed and evocative, albeit occasionally overwhelming, and effectively conveys the lived experiences of individuals grappling with mental health challenges.
To Help Just One is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the intricacies of mental health challenges. The book leaves a lasting impact, instilling in readers a profound appreciation for individual determination and the transformative power of reaching out for help.
Pages: 232 | ASIN : B0BN5FLT73
Break Heart Canyon
Una MacLaren is a fiercely independent woman and widow. When her beloved husband suffers an accident in Break Heart Canyon, she concludes her life is just another story to add to the depressing legacy of the canyon. Preferring the company of her goats and her dog MacTavish she works her farm and keeps to herself for the most part. That is, until a relic hunter appears uninvited and unwanted on her property. Ryker is unlike the other bone hunters who try to pilfer the spirit cave on her property. Slowly the two of them work their way into each other’s lives, with a bit of help from Whiskey Jim, the mysterious wonder that seems to know everything that goes on in this town.
Break Heart Canyon by Gini Rifkin is more than a western romance novel. It is the story of Native American legends, Scottish heritage, and self-discovery. Ryker is the loner, never staying anywhere long, just long enough to get the job done and get paid. But, it is in the canyon and after meeting Una, he starts to realize there is more to life and adventure can come in many forms. Una learns that she doesn’t always have to be strong and it is ok to love more than once in a lifetime. Together they find the missing pieces of themselves and help solve a long-standing mystery that has plagued the town.
Rifkin’s writing style pulls the reader in, giving them rich characters that, in order to get to know the real person, you have to keep reading. Even the minor characters are well-developed and are used to show added depth and personality to the protagonists. Intertwined in the story is the mystery surrounding the cave and the events that have happened in the canyon. The mystery plays out well and leaves some wonderful surprises for the reader to discover.
Break Heart Canyon is a captivating historical romance filled with legend and lore that will have readers unable to put the book down. Each chapter gives the reader something new to think about, leading them deeper into a world they were not expecting. This is the perfect read for those that want romance with their adventure.
Pages: 196 | ASIN : B0B4Z39G9X
Asim’s Extraordinary Journeys
Saon Jestin is a revered teacher in the small village of Tress. With an air of intrigue, he opens a book and gathers his students to narrate a riveting story of good versus evil, where noble warriors strive for justice in a time when malevolent rulers reigned. In Asim’s Extraordinary Journeys: Book 1, All For The Children, the adventure kicks off when an evil king orders his soldiers to abduct the male children of Tress. A small group of brave men decides to undertake a perilous rescue mission, but their success depends on finding the legendary warrior, Asim. Known for his unwavering altruism, Asim agrees to join the cause, and together, they embark on a treacherous journey through the forest, encountering fairies and ferocious monsters. The journey is dangerous, but they remain committed to saving innocent children.
Author Tommy Lee Davis has expertly woven a tale of adventure and action with a good dose of humor that will captivate readers of all ages. The setting is idyllic, and the characters, forest, rivers, and all the places they travel are vividly described. The warriors include men and women, each with unique skills. What stands out is that they don’t rely solely on fighting; they also use strategy and ingenuity, such as when they gather information and plan to infiltrate the castle for the rescue mission. The interactions between the characters are amusing, such as their encounter with the white witch. Furthermore, Davis employs a narrative style with language that is easy to follow. While the book features many characters, the author has included a helpful glossary with the pronunciation of the names to help readers keep track.
Asim’s Extraordinary Journeys: Book 1 All For The Children is a thrilling fantasy adventure. Davis has crafted a compelling tale with well-drawn characters, an engaging plot, and a captivating setting that readers will find enthralling.
Pages: 320 | ISBN : 1958751146
Triskele
Triskele by B. D’Amato is a captivating novel that delves deep into the human psyche and the complexity of relationships. Readers follow the story of two siblings separated at a young age. Paul, the oldest child, is forced to take on the responsibility of his younger sister Bethany, while his single mom works nights to support the family and drinks during the day to cope with her life. When one of Paulie’s closest friends pushes the boundaries of acceptable behavior with Bethany, Paulie punches him as payback which leads to some unexpected consequences for all. Paulie escapes to their absent father’s family orchard, leaving Bethany with her troubled mother. Two decades later, the siblings find themselves settled separately in New York City, both struggling to form meaningful connections while carrying deep-seated emotional scars.
D’Amato’s writing is incredibly rich and evocative, creating a vivid and symbolic backdrop for Paul and Bethany’s struggles. The story is told through the eyes of a gifted psychoanalyst named Lillian, who develops independent relationships with both siblings as they try to navigate their internal struggles. Of the three of them, Bethany suffers the most as a result of not only losing her brother but also her mother. She is plunged into the foster care system leading her into a turbulent life of pain. The book explores irrational behaviors and seemingly opposing motives that drive individuals’ actions, delving into the human desire for emotional wholeness. I liked that the silver lining in what Paul experienced is what turned his life around in a positive direction. D’Amato expertly immerses the reader into the character’s world, from an idyllic upstate farm to the gritty crime-ridden streets of New York City.
I highly recommend Triskele by B. D’Amato to anyone looking for an enthralling read that will challenge and inspire them. This psychological fiction novel will have you pondering the intricacies of the human psyche and the power of the human spirit to heal and persevere.
Pages: 295 | ASIN : B0BW46TSRP
LITERARY TITAN 