Blog Archives
Embracing the Unknown
Embracing the Unknown is the deeply personal story of one woman’s journey through heartbreak, loss, and a transformative year of growth. After her husband’s sudden death, Julie finds herself navigating grief and uncertainty while seeking something more profound—connection with her True Self. Her narrative moves through personal revelations, spiritual insights, and hard-fought moments of healing as she rebuilds a life that feels aligned with her innermost truth.
This book is raw and tender in ways I didn’t expect. Julie invites you to live in her world. One part that stuck with me was when she described standing at her bedroom window, ready to surrender her life to the unknown, only for everything to unravel weeks later. It felt haunting and almost fateful, the kind of moment that lingers with you. Her writing is straightforward, but the emotions beneath her words hit like a tidal wave. It’s a book that made me pause, not to intellectualize, but to feel.
What I loved most was how Julie didn’t shy away from the messy parts of grief or her marriage. Her honesty about the emotional disconnect she felt with her husband and her relief at being “free” was startling, but it felt refreshingly human. Julie’s willingness to examine her own flaws and her husband’s struggles gave the book a balanced and empathetic perspective. I couldn’t help but feel admiration for her courage to put it all out there.
By the end of the book, I felt like I had taken this journey with her. Her gradual embrace of life’s uncertainty, her commitment to personal growth, and the way she finally let go of old baggage were as uplifting as they were heart-wrenching. The conclusion felt like a warm, encouraging nod to anyone else standing on the precipice of change.
If you’re someone who has been through significant loss, or if you’re feeling stuck and searching for deeper meaning, this book might just be for you. It’s not a breezy read—it’s one of those books that makes you sit with your feelings and ask yourself some tough questions. But if you’re up for that, Julie’s story offers hope and a gentle reminder that it’s okay not to have all the answers. Sometimes, the unknown isn’t the end of the road; it’s the beginning.
Pages: 159 | ASIN: B08GYJMF2N
Hurricane Audrey: The Deadly Storm of 1957
Hurricane Audrey captures the raw human experience of one of the deadliest natural disasters in Louisiana’s history. The book weaves the stories of six families who lived through the catastrophic 1957 storm, providing a vivid account of their fight for survival and the emotional aftermath. Cathy C. Post’s narrative unfolds like a thriller, grounding the suspense in historical facts and personal anecdotes. This mix of history and drama makes the book both enlightening and moving.
The writing is what stood out to me the most. It’s clear and gripping, yet heartfelt. One moment, Post is diving into technical details about the Weather Bureau’s first radar-tracked hurricane. The next, she’s painting scenes so vivid that I could almost hear the crackling of the storm and feel the rising panic. The heart of this book is its people. Post doesn’t just tell you what happened, she introduces you to the families of Cameron Parish. Post’s knack for blending facts with personal stories, like those of the Broussard family or the determined sheriff O.B. Carter, adds depth and keeps the reader invested. The chapter describing the tidal wave’s arrival was devastating yet mesmerizing. Survivors like Elaine Broussard reflect on their miraculous survival and the loss of neighbors and loved ones. These stories reminded me how fragile life can be. The heartbreaking accounts of the children lost or separated during the storm stayed with me long after I closed the book. The sheer suddenness of Hurricane Audrey’s landfall, 12 hours ahead of predictions, is described in harrowing detail, leaving the reader as unprepared as the residents themselves.
I’d recommend Hurricane Audrey to history enthusiasts, fans of survival stories, and anyone curious about Louisiana’s culture. It’s a testament to human resilience and a haunting reminder of nature’s power. The book brought me to tears more than once and left me in awe of the people who endured this catastrophe. Don’t miss it; this story deserves to be remembered.
Pages: 320 | ISBN : 1685932126
Soothing Stories for Grown-up Hearts: When I Remember . . .
When I Remember, by Laura Linn Knight, with vibrant illustrations by Juan Pablo Cáceres, is a gentle, beautifully crafted exploration of grief and healing. This thoughtful work seamlessly blends childlike wonder with adult realities, offering readers a path to process loss through poetic language, practical tools, and evocative visuals. Through both prose and poetry, Knight provides five proven strategies for navigating grief: somatic body awareness, building a support network, journaling, mindfulness, and playful self-care. These tools are presented with sensitivity and clarity, creating an accessible framework for anyone seeking solace and strength in difficult times.
Knight’s writing feels timeless, echoing the comforting cadence of childhood stories while addressing the weight of complex adult emotions. Rhymes and rhythms lighten the depth of the themes, offering a soothing balm to heavy hearts.
Juan Pablo Cáceres’ illustrations bring the narrative to life, immersing readers in a world of storybook magic. From start to finish, his art adds a layer of visual storytelling that enhances the book’s atmosphere, pulling readers into a space where healing feels possible and imagination becomes a refuge.
Knight’s expertise shines through her compassionate approach. With a background in psychology, she explains grief and its challenges in a way that feels both informed and deeply personal. While the book focuses on the loss of a loved one, its tools extend far beyond that context. Grief takes many forms, whether it’s mourning a relationship, a lost dream, or life not unfolding as expected. Knight captures its long, nonlinear nature—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. While reading, I reflected on a personal experience of rejection—being denied admission to a university I desperately hoped to attend. At the time, the grief was overwhelming, a complex process of self-doubt and disappointment. Knight’s insights resonated deeply, and I couldn’t help but wonder if this book might have offered comfort and clarity during that difficult chapter of my life.
When I Remember is a book that doesn’t ask much of its reader, yet gives so much in return. Its simplicity is its strength—accessible, heartfelt, and impactful. Whether you’re actively grieving, healing, or simply yearning for the nostalgic magic of a storybook, this book will meet you where you are. If I have one regret, it’s reading this book throughout the day instead of saving it for bedtime. The gentle tone and rhythmic prose make it the perfect nighttime companion, one that soothes the soul before sleep. I eagerly await more of Laura Linn Knight’s work and would recommend this book to anyone seeking comfort, understanding, or a reminder that healing can coexist with hope.
Pages: 71 | ASIN : B0DC9S9PZ9
Shooting Stars Above: A Celestial Bodies Romance
Shooting Stars Above, by Patricia Leavy, offers a heartfelt exploration of love, healing, and resilience through the lives of two deeply wounded individuals. Tess Lee, an internationally best-selling author, spends her life advocating for others, often at the expense of her own well-being. Jack Miller, a federal agent in counterterrorism, has sacrificed so much for his career that his personal life has taken a backseat, leaving him emotionally isolated. Both are burdened by trauma, grief, and a sense of cynicism that keeps them from fully embracing intimacy—until a chance encounter at a local bar changes everything. Their connection is immediate, igniting a love that pulls them out of their emotional isolation and into a restorative relationship that readers witness unfold.
Leavy, an award-winning novelist and fervent arts advocate, bypasses the usual romance tropes of slow-burn, will-they-won’t-they dynamics, diving straight into the heart of Tess and Jack’s deep and respectful bond. From the start, their relationship feels intense and genuine, offering both the characters and readers a sense of healing as past traumas surface and are addressed. The conflict in this novel doesn’t pit the lovers against each other but rather shows how their love strengthens as they confront the harsh realities of the world around them.
While the plot occasionally lurches forward with moments where characters reveal personal information in ways that feel slightly forced or unrealistic, this approach serves a purpose. These moments of rapid exposition make room for tender, intimate scenes that focus on the emotional depth of their connection. Leavy’s emphasis clearly lies in showcasing the process of falling in love while battling personal demons, allowing readers to experience the vulnerability and emotional weight Tess and Jack carry.
Though the story navigates difficult themes like grief and trauma, there’s no shortage of levity, largely supplied by Tess and Jack’s circle of caring, supportive friends. Their humor and warmth balance the heavier moments, adding a layer of comfort to the novel’s emotional landscape.
Shooting Stars Above is a heartwarming narrative that delves into love, loss, friendship, and the strength it takes to survive life’s challenges. Leavy offers a poignant reminder that even in a cruel, relentless world, love can be a healing force. For readers seeking a story that restores faith in humanity and shines a light on the beauty of connection, this novel is a must-read.
Pages: 224 | ASIN : B0CYJ76ZXK
A Special Relationship
Where’s Grandma? is a touching picture book that gently helps kids navigate the complex emotions of grief and loss through the comforting memories of a grandmother’s love. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When I lost my mom I decided to put it into a book and pay homage to her. She was our Queen and we all miss her. I took notice of my family during this time, especially the youngest, my granddaughter Jordyn. Jordyn and my Mother had a special relationship so I decided to capture the beautiful moments that shared together and put it in a book.
The illustrations in Where’s Grandma? beautifully complement the story’s emotional depth. How did you collaborate with the illustrator to bring Jordyn’s journey to life?
I had a plan from the beginning as it relates to the storyline, as well as illustrations, so I never strayed from that. I knew what I wanted to do with the book from the beginning. I gave explicit details to the illustrator to work with, and she brought my vision to life. The illustrations turned out just like I wanted them to. They are amazing.
Can you share any advice for parents or caregivers on how to discuss grief and loss with young children using books like yours?
I know it’s tough, but I’d say start with my book, Where’s Grandma? It’s a great way to start up the conversation. Some kids just shut down and don’t want to talk about it. But this book has journals included to assist children on how to deal with the sadness they are feeling. This book can get the healing process going, for the children as well as their parents.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m working on a children’s Affirmation book. I hope to have it out by the end of the year or in early 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram | Amazon
This book takes you through Jordyn’s journey, as she deals with the loss of someone close and very dear to her. Jordyn’s emotions are up, down and everywhere. Jordyn has so many questions. Where did she go, and what does it mean to transition?
Jordyn looks to her Mommy for guidance on how to deal with her feelings and emotions during this time. Jordyn’s Journeys: Where’s Grandma?, gives you a beautiful view of the close relationship between Jordyn and her great-grandma and brings to light some of the special moments they shared, such as playing games and watching Jordyns’ favorite movie together. It’s a beautifully illustrated children’s book dealing with loss, grief and bereavement, from a child’s perspective.
Jordyn also shares several journals in this book that can be used to assist your child with dealing with their feelings and emotions, as they deal with the loss of a loved one. These journals can help to preserve memories of that special loved one, and help your child as they grieve and deal with their feelings and emotions.
Grief is Unpredictable
OMG! Oh My Grief-ness is a heartfelt and introspective exploration of grief, intricately detailing the multifaceted ways in which individuals experience loss. Why was this an important book for you to write?
OMG! Oh My Grief-ness was a significant book to create as I noticed many people in my surroundings were experiencing grief. In the United States, every state is ranked based on depression levels, with Tennessee having the highest percentage and Hawaii the lowest. Recognizing grief is the initial stage in addressing personalized grieving processes. Failure to acknowledge grief leads to misinformation, resulting in delayed recovery and prolonged grief stages for both individuals and families.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
One of the most challenging aspects of composing OMG! Oh My Grief-ness was addressing the topic of my parents and acknowledging the solitary nature of personalized grief when not adequately addressed. Expressing my feelings about my parents was particularly difficult due to their absence. Coming to terms with this reality is a struggle that many of us face.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Some concepts highlighted in this book focus on the transformation of cultural, physical, and social dimensions in our lives, which can become unrecognizable to both us and others. The book emphasizes the importance of embracing these changes, adapting to new norms, and finding acceptance while navigating through the journey of grief.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about the grief process?
While there are six popular misconceptions noted about grief, I feel the misconception that “grief never reappears after enough time passes” is common. The expectations of grief are not concrete and are more times than not unpredictable.
Author Links: X | Facebook | Website
OMG! Oh My Grief-ness
OMG! Oh My Grief-ness by C. Terry Morris is a heartfelt and introspective exploration of grief, intricately detailing the multifaceted ways in which individuals experience loss. Morris eloquently draws on personal experiences, cultural reflections, and a deep understanding of the grieving process to present a guide that is as comforting as it is informative. The book’s structure, divided into thoughtful sections addressing the physical, cognitive, and spiritual aspects of grief, creates a comprehensive roadmap for those navigating the often overwhelming emotions associated with loss.
One of the standout aspects of Morris’s writing is her ability to communicate the deeply personal nature of grief. She emphasizes that grief is unique to each individual, much like a fingerprint, which resonated with me throughout the book. She discusses the different categories of grief, from anticipatory to complicated, making it clear that no two experiences are identical. This analogy is powerful because it validates the solitary nature of grieving while also offering solace by acknowledging that others share in this deeply personal journey. Morris’s approach is both compassionate and practical, which makes this book particularly effective. The blend of anecdotal insights with researched information, such as the stages of grief provided by the American Cancer Society, allows the reader to feel supported both emotionally and intellectually. I found her discussion on the “GrIef-ness” and the “I” factor particularly insightful. By focusing on self-care and the importance of acknowledging one’s own needs during the grieving process, Morris provides a crucial reminder that caring for oneself is not selfish but necessary. Morris skillfully navigates the complexities of how different cultures and beliefs influence the grieving process, offering readers various perspectives that might align with their own experiences. The integration of spirituality into the discussion of grief feels natural and offers an additional avenue of comfort for readers who find solace in their faith.
OMG! Oh My Grief-ness is an essential read for anyone grappling with loss, whether recent or lingering. Morris’s compassionate tone, combined with her insightful reflections, makes this book not just a guide, but a companion through the grieving process. I would highly recommend this book to those who are dealing with grief, as well as to therapists, counselors, and anyone supporting someone through loss. It’s a book that understands the deep, personal pain of grief and offers a path toward healing that feels both personal and universal.
Pages: 72
Are You Ready?: How to Build a Legacy to Die For
In Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For, Dr. Kimberly Harms masterfully explores the profound concept of legacy through a blend of personal stories and practical guidance, aiming to inspire readers to lead lives of deep meaning. Across its chapters, Harms delves into themes such as love, resilience, hard work, faith, and preparation for death, all richly interwoven with her own experiences and those who have significantly impacted her life. Each chapter opens with motivational quotes and closes with actionable steps, rendering the book both reflective and pragmatic.
The book excels in personalizing the often abstract concept of legacy. Harms employs relatable narratives and vivid examples to animate the themes, fostering a connection between the reader and her journey, along with the valuable lessons she shares. The abundance of advice and stories in each chapter provides a wealth of insights. The later sections, which focus on preparing for death, are crucial and offer profound insights, providing readers with valuable guidance on this important topic. Dr. Harms writes with a heartfelt, conversational tone that readily engages the reader, making complex topics accessible and relatable. The practical tips concluding each chapter are particularly beneficial, providing clear guidance on how to apply the lessons to one’s own life. While the book covers a wide array of topics, from managing personal relationships to meticulous planning for one’s end-of-life affairs, it maintains a cohesive narrative centered on the importance of building a meaningful legacy.
Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For is a compelling read that prompts readers to ponder deeply the legacy they wish to leave. It combines motivational discourse with practical planning, serving as a valuable resource for anyone aiming to enrich their life and the lives of those around them. It adeptly balances inspirational content with practical advice, though it occasionally grapples with pacing and density.
Pages: 302 | ASIN : B0CHG23HD5
LITERARY TITAN 