Blog Archives
Obesseus Feasts Of Legends (The Slam-Fu Edition 1)
I just finished Obesseus Feast of Legends, and what a wild ride. This book tells the story of Obesseus. He is a hero. His belly is big. His heart is bigger. He just wants to eat dumplings. A former friend, Monica Mango, starts a war. She leads the “Juice Regime.” She hates solid food. Obesseus must fight. He learns a power called Slam-Fu. The book follows his journey. He defends the world of Buffetland. It is a huge, sprawling, absolutely massive food fight.
The writing is a total trip. Sentences are short. Sometimes just one word. Then a long, rambling thought. Things are yelled in capital letters. It felt less like reading a novel and more like reading a script. A script for the most frantic cartoon ever. The sheer number of ideas is surprising. The author just throws everything at the wall. And honestly? I loved watching it stick. It was a blast.
I really connected with the ideas here. The book is not just about food puns. It’s about big feelings. Obesseus himself is pure joy. He represents indulgence. He fights against control. The villains are great. They are juice-cleanse tyrants and asparagus-god dictators. I felt a lot for the side characters. Conflicted Tomato was my favorite. He just wants to know where he belongs. What a mood. I will say the plot gets messy. Part 1 was simple. Part 3 was just bananas. New characters kept appearing. Muffin Ninjas. Sinister Shrimp. A gaslighting grapefruit named Grant. It was a lot.
I am genuinely happy I read this. It is a messy, chaotic, and wonderful book. Do not read this if you want a quiet, serious story. This is not that. This book is loud. This book is strange. This book is wacky. I would recommend this to anyone with a wild imagination. It’s for people who grew up on hyperactive cartoons. It’s for anyone who just wants to see a hero win. A hero who wins with a full belly and a good burp.
Pages: 262 | ASIN : B0FZD69XD4
The Floating Lake of Dressa Moore
The Floating Lake of Dressa Moore is a sweeping fantasy adventure packed with humor, magic, and a healthy dose of emotional complexity. The novel follows two university professors, Jonathan Braxton, a pompous yet oddly endearing magilurgist, and William Watts Worthwaddle, a linguist with more curiosity than caution, as they embark on a scientific expedition to the mysterious floating lake of Dressa Moore. What begins as an academic quest quickly morphs into a chaotic journey involving pirates, cursed crew members, ancient magical sources, and an empire that doesn’t like being questioned. Told in a lively, almost whimsical tone, the book shifts between perspectives, including a pirate captain with a heart buried deep under layers of steel, and a military commodore hell-bent on revenge. All creating a vibrant mosaic of motives, secrets, and world-shaking consequences.
Miller’s writing balances snappy banter with heartache, which I loved. I found myself laughing one moment and stunned the next, especially when the story shifted into darker territory with flesh-eating townsfolk and twisted magical consequences. The magic system is chaotic but layered in intrigue, and the way Miller uses magic to explore themes of control, love, and regret really caught me off guard. The romantic tension between Jonathan and William is subtle and surprisingly tender, especially given how often they’re bickering or rolling their eyes at each other. That human element made the world feel more grounded, even when lakes were floating in the sky.
Occasionally, I wanted less talking and more doing. The commodore’s vendetta, while fascinating, bordered on melodramatic at times. And Marta, the pirate captain, almost stole the entire book, but I wished her inner turmoil had more time to breathe. Still, these are small things in a story that kept me turning pages like a fiend. The prose doesn’t try to be lofty, and that works in its favor. It’s clever, conversational, and full of personality. It reads like someone telling you a fantastic story over a pint with animated hands, raised eyebrows, the whole bit.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but still hits you emotionally when you least expect it. If you’re into world-building with some weird magic, flawed characters trying to do the right thing (or at least not the worst thing), and dialogue that crackles with wit, The Floating Lake of Dressa Moore is for you. It’s a madcap ride through floating lakes, shattered love, and magical chaos, and I had a blast.
Pages: 394 | ASIN : B0F4XRK9Q3
The Wake of Expectations
Javier De Lucia’s The Wake of Expectations is a raw, poetic unraveling of self in a world where dreams, disillusionment, and the pressure to perform collide. The book journeys through a fragmented psyche, moving between poetic introspection and philosophical musings, all while probing the cost of living under the weight of inherited ideals and cultural norms. It’s less a narrative and more a lyrical excavation—a fevered diary torn at the seams.
What struck me first was the voice. It’s angry, tender, lost, and deeply human. De Lucia doesn’t hold your hand. He throws you in. His words crackle with emotion—grief, rage, shame. The prose can be jagged, like broken glass, but that’s the point. It’s meant to cut. It’s meant to hurt. And it does, in the best way. I found myself underlining lines not because they were pretty, but because they felt true. Like he’d scooped thoughts out of the back of my mind and dared to say them out loud.
But some passages drift into abstraction. There were moments when it felt like De Lucia was writing for himself. It’s unapologetically personal, but it’s fantastic when it lands; however, I craved more shape and clarity. Still, even in its chaos, there’s something magnetic about it.
The ideas in the book were thought-provoking, and something I really enjoyed about this novel. He questions everything: ambition, masculinity, belonging, even time. And he doesn’t offer answers. Just cracks. Openings. Invitations to think, to feel. I came away shaken, but also strangely comforted. There’s something healing in the honesty, in knowing someone else is just as bewildered by the world.
The Wake of Expectations isn’t for everyone. It’s heavy. It’s weird. It doesn’t pretend to be neat or nice. But if you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in who you’re supposed to be, this book might throw you a rope—or at least show you you’re not alone. I’d recommend it to readers who crave emotion over plot, who aren’t afraid of the dark corners. It’s poetry with teeth. And it lingers.
Pages: 551 | ASIN : B0DYBJVG9C
Cinnamon Soul
Cinnamon Soul is a vibrant fantasy mystery that follows the quirky and sharp duo of Hokuren, a former City Watch captain turned private investigator, and her barefoot, bolt-catching assistant, Cinna. Set in the magical, lively city of Velles, the story kicks off with the thrilling capture of the infamous Master Thief, Maxwell Barnaby, and quickly pivots into a high-stakes search for a missing princess. What follows is an investigation tangled with royal secrets, ominous knights, and lots of banter. It’s part buddy-cop, part classic whodunit, and it’s got a cinnamon-sweet heart running through all the grit.
Quinn Lawrence knows how to make dialogue pop, and the chemistry between Cinna and Hokuren is honestly the soul of the book. That first scene where Cinna casually catches a crossbow bolt mid-air? I was hooked right then. She’s scrappy, hilarious, and kind of terrifying in the best way. Meanwhile, Hokuren’s got this tired but determined energy that makes her both lovable and sharp. It’s impressive how Hokuren maintains her composure and sharpness, even while managing her assistant during tense moments, such as when she calmly redirects Cinna amid the emotional breakdown of a key witness and still extracts vital information. Their dynamic adds energy and warmth to the narrative, elevating even the story’s quieter moments.
But it’s not all jokes and clever quips. There’s some genuinely unsettling mystery stuff here, especially around Julien Davenport, the Captain of the Guard. The man might be a myth; he never takes off his armor, there’s no underwear in his wardrobe, and his voice is always “next to you”? Creepy. The whole palace has this weird vibe, like something’s off and no one’s saying it out loud. Hokuren and Cinna navigating all that with such different energy , the calm investigator and the chaotic brawler, makes the palace scenes tense in a great way.
The pacing dips here and there, especially in the middle when they’re gathering intel and poking through rooms, but honestly, I didn’t mind too much because the characters carry the story. Anne, the lady-in-waiting, ends up being more complex than expected, and her breakdown when she spills secrets about Nyana and the prince? Heavy stuff. You start to feel like something darker’s going on under the surface, and even when the book plays it light, the edges are sharp.
Cinnamon Soul is for anyone who loves smart, character-driven fantasy with a strong mystery at its core. If you liked The Dresden Files, Veronica Mars, or even The Witcher but wish it came with more charm and less grimdark, this one’s for you. I’m absolutely picking up the next book in the series. I want more of Cinna’s antics, more of Hokuren’s stubborn brilliance, and definitely more of whatever weird secrets are lurking in Velles.
Pages: 310 | ASIN : B0DVRT19T9
Spin Cycle: Notes from a Reluctant Caregiver
Spin Cycle offers a raw and intimate look into the life of Ezra Pavic, a man navigating the complexities of caregiving for his aging mother with dementia. Through Ezra’s reflections, Alfredo Botello unpacks themes of guilt, frustration, and love, crafting a poignant and often darkly humorous tale about familial responsibility and the messy emotions it stirs. The story unfolds with sharp prose and deep introspection, pulling readers into the exhausting and often heartbreaking reality of caregiving.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is Botello’s unflinching honesty. Ezra’s recounting of his struggles is refreshingly candid, whether he’s snapping at his mother in frustration or battling feelings of inadequacy after a failed attempt at patience. The opening chapter lays bare his emotional rawness: “Maybe I’m not struggling with who I became. Maybe I’m struggling with who I always was.” That vulnerability hit me hard. I think it will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the weight of self-doubt or resentment. Botello doesn’t shy away from showing Ezra’s flaws, making him deeply relatable.
The narrative is also peppered with moments of dark humor, which add levity to an otherwise heavy subject. Ezra’s wry observations, like his envy of serene caregivers in online videos or his internal monologues about self-care platitudes, feel genuine and earned. One particularly memorable scene involves a nail salon visit with his mother. Despite his irritation, Ezra finds himself moved by the small joy it brings her, a rare glimmer of light in the otherwise bleak caregiving cycle. These moments of connection, fleeting as they are, illustrate the resilience of love in the face of overwhelming hardship.
Botello’s writing shines when he delves into the nuanced dynamics of Ezra’s relationships, not just with his mother but with his ex-wife, son, and support group. Ezra’s attempts to reconcile his anger with his lingering affection for Irene are some of the book’s most profound passages. His inner conflict, oscillating between resentment and duty, rings true for anyone caught in the so-called “sandwich generation.” These emotional layers are what elevate Spin Cycle from being just another fictional memoir to a profound exploration of humanity.
Spin Cycle captures the exhausting, thankless, and often isolating world of caregiving with heart and precision. This book is a must-read for those navigating similar challenges or anyone seeking an honest and moving story about the imperfect art of loving and caring for others. I think it’s ideal for readers who appreciate introspective, character-driven narratives that aren’t afraid to dive into life’s messiness.
Pages: 316 | ASIN : B0DQXDSTYN
The Unexpected Guests
The Unexpected Guests, by Ruth F. Stevens, dives into the tangled web of midlife relationships, family dynamics, and the journey of self-discovery. At the center of this contemporary fiction is Margaret, a recently divorced woman trying to piece her life back together. She rekindles a complicated connection with Charlie, a successful but emotionally guarded author. The story intricately weaves together the lives of various characters, each with their own struggles and secrets. Margaret’s friend, Sunny, faces her own battles with love and career, while Gwendolyn, Margaret’s mother, harbors a past shrouded in mystery. Set against the vibrant backdrop of South Bay in Los Angeles, the narrative delves into love, second chances, and the inevitable chaos that others bring into our lives. This book appeals to readers who crave character-driven tales infused with humor, heart, and a touch of drama.
Ruth Stevens’ The Unexpected Guests offers a warm, heartfelt reading experience. The story invites readers into the lives of seemingly ordinary characters grappling with life’s oddities. Their experiences resonate deeply, making the narrative feel intimate and personal. Certain characters stand out, their stories laced with tension yet softened by the tenderness in Stevens’ prose. This balance evokes empathy as they navigate old wounds and new opportunities. The writing flows effortlessly, accessible yet charming. The prose sparkles with wit and emotion, striking a balance between light-hearted moments and more reflective, poignant scenes. I do feel that the dialogue sometimes feels as if the characters are speaking past each other rather than engaging in genuine conversation. This detracts slightly from the otherwise engaging narrative.
Each character, even the secondary ones like Sunny and Gwendolyn, is thoughtfully crafted. They bring their unique dilemmas to the story, enriching the main narrative in meaningful ways. Stevens excels in portraying relationships, whether romantic, familial, or platonic. The flaws in these characters make them more endearing, drawing readers deeper into their lives and struggles. The plot leans toward a slice-of-life approach, focusing on emotional depth rather than high-stakes drama. This style may resonate with those who enjoy introspective, character-focused stories. The pacing is steady, and these quieter scenes offer valuable space to reflect on the characters, enhancing understanding and connection.
The Unexpected Guests explores love, second chances, and the beautifully messy nature of human relationships. It’s a moving story for readers who appreciate well-drawn characters and narratives that feel both genuine and heartfelt.
Pages: 355 | ASIN : B0DFCS8BKN
Steven F Seagull and The Missing Chips
Steven F Seagull and the Missing Chips, by Kitty May Gruchelska, is a delightful adventure set on the coast of Britain. The story follows Steven Fitzgerald Seagull, affectionately known as Fitzy, who embarks on another day of work alongside his fellow seagulls. Their mission is to find their sacred and favorite food: delicious, salty chips. However, a crisis strikes their home of Fry Cove when all the chips mysteriously disappear, leading Fitzy on a thrilling quest to save his hometown.
Gruchelska’s storytelling is engaging, reminiscent of an animated movie for children. The action unfolds rapidly, and the author’s lively style keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. Written from Fitzy’s perspective, the book immerses the reader in his journey as he meets a diverse cast of characters. Fitzy’s best friend Charlie is kind and tough, Percy Pigeon’s shyness is endearing, the Artful Dodger’s bravado leaps off the page, and the intrepid Ellie comes through when it matters most.
One of the many standout features in the book is the depiction of the Annual Chip Festival, where the community’s love for chips is celebrated with fervor and excitement. The scene where chips rain down like confetti is both amusing and endearing, capturing the essence of the seagulls’ joy and camaraderie. Gruchelska also excels in portraying the crisis that ensues when the chips vanish, highlighting the seagulls’ desperation and the comedic chaos that follows.
The thematic exploration of dependency and adaptability is subtly woven throughout the narrative. The protagonist’s journey from a carefree chip lover to a determined seeker of solutions adds depth to the story. Steven’s interactions with various characters, like his supportive best friend Stephanie Charlotte and the enigmatic mystic Stefania Rose, provide valuable lessons about resilience and self-belief. The scene where Steven consults the emergency seagull hotline is particularly poignant, showcasing the community’s collective anxiety and the humorous yet dire straits they find themselves in.
Steven F. Seagull & The Missing Chips is a delightful read that offers a unique blend of humor, adventure, and heartwarming moments. Kitty May Gruchelska’s ability to craft a charming world filled with memorable characters makes this book a joy for readers of all ages. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a lighthearted and entertaining story that also imparts meaningful lessons about community and adaptability. Whether you’re a fan of whimsical tales or simply in need of a feel-good read, this book is sure to leave you smiling.
Pages: 237 | ASIN : B0D73QBMX1
Professor Hex Vs. Texas Men: Where Women’s Rights and Revenge Fantasy Meet
Professor Hex Vs. Texas Men, by Melanie S. Wolfe, offers a biting dark comedy that holds a mirror up to the stark realities facing women in states with stringent abortion laws. Through the lens of fantasy, Wolfe constructs a narrative that, while fictional, resonates deeply with the ongoing debates over women’s bodily autonomy in America. The novel creatively explores what happens when these roles are reversed, with men experiencing pregnancy and the associated challenges.
The story centers around Professor Hex, a character who, despite not being entirely human, navigates human society with poignant observations and interactions. Alongside Professor Hex, we follow Holly, a news anchor on trial for what is perceived as a botched abortion following a miscarriage, and her husband, Juan, a police officer who finds himself pregnant. The trio’s journey touches on sensitive issues such as women’s rights and male pregnancy, asking readers to maintain an open mind and remember the fictional nature of the work, even as the themes it discusses press closely to reality. Wolfe’s writing is clear and engaging, making it easy to empathize with the characters and their predicaments. The reversal of traditional roles not only highlights the importance of bodily autonomy but also offers a unique perspective that may help readers to better understand the stakes involved. Wolfe challenges us to consider the lasting implications of reproductive rights restrictions through a narrative that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. Keeping an open mind will allow the reader to fully engage with this intriguing blend of fantasy and reality.
Melanie S. Wolfe’s Professor Hex Vs. Texas Men is a compelling exploration of serious issues through a fantastical lens, effectively challenging readers to think critically about gender, autonomy, and the consequences of legislative control over personal freedoms. By infusing her narrative with dark humor and role reversals, Wolfe not only makes the subject matter more approachable but also underscores the universal importance of empathy and understanding in discussions about rights and identity. This book is a noteworthy addition to conversations about societal issues, offering a unique and engaging perspective that encourages deep reflection and dialogue.
Pages: 283 | ASIN : B0CNG4C2FB
LITERARY TITAN 