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Swordpoint
![Swordpoint by [Crane, David]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41uK5ALlfQL.jpg)
Swordpoint is an engaging story full of trials and tribulations for the protagonist, Eugene Francois Vidocq. Anyone interested in historical fiction focused on 18th century France would get a lot of satisfaction from reading this novel.
The main character is the son of a bread maker who grew up a troublemaker in a small town in France. After falling in love, sailing halfway around the world to find his fortune, and returning with little more than experience gained, Vidocq must forge a new way forward. Unfortunately for him, his past deeds seem to follow him everywhere he goes, and now he must go to great lengths to re-create a future worthy of his dreams. Achieving those dreams turns out to be quite a challenge as he is put up against many adversaries. Vidocq’s adventures take him in and out of many riveting circumstances but he is smart, skilled, and dedicated to his cause.
The story takes place among many important points of France’s history, and each part of that history is very carefully crafted. The characters and setting are believable and full of depth making it easy to sink into Vidocq’s world. The meticulous descriptive power of the author helps bring the story to life. Being a well-researched historical fiction novel details such as the guillotines spread throughout France to administer revolutionary justice, the social classes, changing political landscape, and much more, are created genuinely enough to give the reader a perfect atmospheric feeling.
18th century France provides the perfect setting for excitement. There is ample opportunity for Vidocq to engage in exciting confrontations everywhere he goes. Whether it is chasing criminals, trying to escape the jaws of death, slipping in and out of favor with the powers that be, or showcasing his ability as a capable fighter, Vidocq will certainly keep you entertained.
Swordpoint takes on a life of its own. This historical fiction novel deserves high praise for its writing quality, character development, and top rate storytelling. The story is very well written and does a fantastic job at captivating your imagination.
Pages: 335 | ASIN: B00B6FCLGO
Life Without Humor is a Pathetic Experience
Eduardo Chapunoff Author Interview
Charlas Con Dios En Calzoncillos contains discussions with religious representatives of different faiths. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Most people are seriously and justifiably concerned about their thoughts on God and religion. Fears prevail and limit humans’ ability and disposition to express their feelings on the subject.
Asking questions to representatives of different creeds exposed some crucial differences among them. However, I tried to convey the message that mutual understanding can be achieved EVEN when individuals have opposite points of view.
My motivation in writing this book was based on a life-long struggle to deal with this issue and showing how important it is to express your ideas to GOD, even when you don’t know (as it happens in the book), He’s speaking to you.
This book contains some fictional stories to get a larger point across. What were some themes you wanted to capture in these stories?
Life without humor is a pathetic experience. Those who believe in God and his extraordinary goodness will notice his great sense of humor and of course, his capacity to do miracles.
Another very important point I made in the book is the suggestion that God is not directly responsible for human beings cruelty, and that He is extremely frustrated about humans’ highly dysfunctional behavior. That becomes even more pronounced when He recognizes that He’s unable to correct it. God’s attitude is humble and compassionate and he admits that the creation process of the world and human beings, regrettably, and to his deep regret, suffered from “infrastructure failures”.
I like the title of his book. Where did the inspiration for the title come from?
Perhaps, subconsciously I felt that those who believe in God would like to have chats with Him in a very personal and intimate way. Talking to God in underwear would be one way of doing that.
What do you hope readers take away from your book?
Believing in God is far better than not believing in God. Appreciate God’s incredibly smart and beautiful he created for our world but also understand his limitations, as mentioned in the book by Rabbi Isaac. Also, make an effort to tolerate the doubts of the agnostic, Dr. Terrin, and don’t hate him for his ideas.
Nobody’s is perfect and God appears to be the first one to recognize that. Don’t feel guilty for your doubts. God will be grateful to you for your candor, sincerity, and understanding. And remember that He’ll never be able to avoid tragedies in your life, but will give you the strenght and capacity to fight adversity.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
![Charlas Con Dios En Calzoncillos (Spanish Edition) by [Chapunoff, Eduardo]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/418Jl4PR7bL.jpg)
Dios viene a la Tierra como hombre para comunicarse con seres humanos directamente. El libro contiene discusiones con representantes religiosos de distintos credos y tambien contiene capitulos humoristicos. Se cataloga como “ficción”.
No tengo conocimiento de que algo parecido se haya publicado anteriomente.
Rebirth: Birds of Change – Trailer
An explosion rocks the city to its very foundation; the sole survivor Asylia has no memories of her past. She finds herself in a world divided between those who are talented and those who aren’t. Vici a city governed by an egotistical Praetor driven by his hatred for the gifted individuals the tallents whom he considers a plague.
Risen from the ashes, Asylia pieces herself together while taking control of her emerging fire talent. Harbored by a mysterious group called Revival, she discovers that the people of Vici are disappearing at an alarming rate. Together with her new friends, she must rally against the Praetor’s tyranny, racing to free the city in hopes that she isn’t too late to bring peace to this world in turmoil. She must be careful; one mistake and she will end up like all the other Tallents who have faced the Praetor’s wrath.
Global Dawn
![Global Dawn by [Thompson, Wesley Boydd]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51mc3wxcS1L.jpg)
I had not prepared myself for the thrill that would come in chapter three. I, of course, enjoyed reading about the USS Benjamin Stoddert, Auguste, and Jacques Piccard and all the sea missions. I love being introduced to new jargon and chapters one and two had me learn about different sea vessels and everything that happens at the sea. Chapter three was however different. The reader gets introduced to Ordo Templi Orientis (O.T.O); a secret global council promulgated in 1904, founded to watch over and defend mankind from powerful and unknown enemies.
The O.T.O being in war with the New World Order (N.W.O) made the story exciting to read. To contain the situation, a meeting had to be set. The exchange between the president of the United States and Colonel Fisher as the latter brought the president up to speed with the history on the modern day battle with the N.W.O and the kidnapping of Henry Boder. I could visualize the two men as they discussed the issues at hand. Larry taking the spot from the president and hurting his ego was thrilling. I enjoyed how the most powerful man was made to listen to what a mere colonel had to say.
Reading Global Dawn was a pleasant experience because the plot gets more interesting with every chapter. I appreciate the effort the author puts in character selection. Each character seemed real and authentic. My favorite character was colonel Larry. The man spoke with authority and knew his facts. I admired the guts he had. Dr. Henry Boder was another important character in the book that helped build a good part of the plot.
The inclusion of Benjamin Rothschild and Hitler and their relation to the New World Order in the book was surprising yet fascinating. Rothschild’s epiphany; that there were too many people on the planet and fewer resources for what he referred to as ‘the worth’ would make for a lively debate. The thinking pattern of the two men were extreme but still logical, and I appreciated how I could follow their different ways of seeing things.
Global Dawn is an amazing book that you don’t want to miss. W. B. Thompson is an excellent writer. Each chapter is succinct and makes the reading fun and easy. Organizational wars, envy, respect for authority, family, warfare, technology, and global influence are among the themes the author covered, and most of the them can be compared to issues in the real world. Global Dawn is an exciting book that I recommend to readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic science fiction and techno-thriller genres.
Pages: 436 | ASIN: B07QL8GT58
God Knows Our Hearts
Dr. Ronel Benade Author Interview
Heavenly Whispers is a daily devotional perfectly written for people on the go. Why was this an important book for you to write?
So many people are working unprecedented hours night and day to provide for their family and make their mark in the workplace, leaving them with some guilt for not taking time to give to God. My purpose with this book was to remove that “guilt” we easily place on ourselves. God knows our hearts, and responsibility. With this book I give you, one thought and scripture to focus on, something to ponder during your hectic schedule. I tried to be as balanced as possible, covering different aspects you might encounter or gain new insight.
Time with God has nothing to do with time on a clock, to me it is sacred time during those busy hours where your inner man reflects and speak to God.
This book contains so many beautiful and inspirational selections of scripture. How did you choose what went into this book?
Honestly without the guidance of the Holy Spirit I don’t think I would have been able to write this book. Some life experiences and lessons I have learned He would bring to remembrance, and when praying about it, I would ask for words that would be helpful to the reader.
My favorite is John 17:17 on day 125. Do you have a favorite from this collection?
Day 189, Ephesians 3:16 is just one of my favorites. This one however is based on a personal encounter I went through when I was only a 3-day, born again baby. Back then I did not yet have a Bible, and, when faced with a demonic force I had to take a stand and say “no” 3 times, before that entity would leave me be. This is where I learned about the power our words have. With Christ taking the center within your inner man, you are an unstoppable force.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I just released a booklet in my Mother tongue; Afrikaans, as I believe my own “people” are deprived of new revelation God has for them, and we are in uncertain times in our country. My heart’s desire is that it would release new hope and inspiration. I would like to however release my next book in 2020 but I am working through some ideas.
Author Links: Website | Twitter | Facebook
![Heavenly Whispers: 222 Day Devotional by [Benade, Dr. Ronel]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41S%2B4RbIdnL.jpg)
This little book is packed with inspiration and encouragement.
Heavenly Whispers is a pocket-size devotional focusing on one scripture per day with a simple prayer that will inspire the reader to take small steps to impact others in an inspirational way. This devotional will suit the on-the-go persons to have a few minutes to spare to recharge and receive their daily upliftment from God that will carry them through the day.
This book is a quick daily read but packed with insights and new revelations. Be ready to be transformed to a better version of yourself.
The Monk
Billy has only ever wanted to liberate the oppressed. He worked as a cop for ten years only to leave that behind and join the priesthood. About half a decade since he left the force and last spoke to his ‘brother’, he is called upon to help with the murder of his goddaughter Julia. He can feel the heavy presence of the devil in Capitol Hill Denver. He is determined to fight with prayer. William Yeats Butler is no weak person. He is a worthy opponent. He is a warrior. Will the killers of Julia be brought to justice? Can Billy and Laskey ever get overcome the past?
Set in the 1980’s this book is the first in a two book series. It’s an account of suspenseful mysteries with a bit of a narrative on spirituality weaved in. Written by a cop, you really can feel the intensity of a police investigation. The pain of knowing the victims on a personal level. The valor required just to get out of bed each day and prepare for this job. One can also clearly see the sheer sacrifice that comes with the job. Timony McKeever is a brilliant storyteller who has mastered the art of setting the scene using simple language.
There are so many characters to love. Moving away from the obvious, Billy, one cannot help but admire the double edged sword that is McDuff. MLM can be tough and mean but she can also be sweet and charming. It is so strange yet so compelling to experience. Laskey on the other hand is a faulty human being. He is great at his job and has better fashion sense now but the cracks in his personality make for some comedic relief. The author, it seems, has developed each character for the sole reason of building a rapport with the reader. To invite the reader into Capitol Hill as opposed to just watching events unfold from the sidelines.
The prose is succinct, and the dialogue is engaging because things are kept short. It is especially fun to see Laskey and Billy fall into their old relations so quick after they are reunited.
Be warned, there is quite a bit of profanity. However, it serves to set the tone of the book and is yet another thing that paints an accurate picture of interactions between brothers in arms. This is a book worth reading. If nothing else you will appreciate what it takes for criminals to be brought to justice.
Pages: 330 | ISBN: 1513648349
Will we get arrested for this?
Nick James Author Interview
The Misplaced Man follows Sam who becomes the target of the company he works for as he tries to uncover the truth behind their technology. What was the inspiration for the setup to this intriguing novel?
Technology is moving at such a fast rate, and I remembered an old English space comedy called Red Dwarf, where they used Dream recorders. And with Mobile improving year on year, it has to be only a few years away till you can down load your dreams.
Sam is a memorable character that was both witty and interesting. What were some driving ideals behind his character?
Sam Blades is a mixture of myself and my brothers qualities. Good and bad.
I find that, while writing, writers sometimes ask questions and have the characters answer them. Do you find that to be true? What questions did you ask yourself while writing this story?
Will we get arrested for this?
What is the next novel that you are working on and when will it be available?
Trying to finish the Misplaced Man Trilogy, hopefully by August 2019.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
![The Misplaced Man: Who is in charge of his destiny? by [James, Nick]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41M-UCTbIQL.jpg)
When Sam Blades starts work at Shimmering Dreams, he hopes to climb the promotional ladder and bring security for himself and his girlfriend. Hailed as the greatest invention of its age, he would be working on new technology that downloads your dreams to your phone.
But, unbeknown to him, somebody behind the scenes is pulling the strings.
What lengths will someone go to when they are forced to repay a debt? Is Sam being set up as the fall guy to take the blame for dreams being used for nefarious activities? Who ends up taking matters into their own hands with drastic consequences?
Follow Sam’s tongue-in-cheek journey through a world of industrial espionage where he blindly battles against an alcohol-fuelled boss, a corrupt copper, a revenge-seeking hitman and a tone-deaf busker.
Hurtsy: The Harrowed Hedgehog
![Hurtsy: The Harrowed Hedgehog by [Graves, Cindy]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61EwlbxqWNL._SX260_.jpg)
Hurtysy is dealing with a unique hedgehog problem. Anyone that touches her gets hurt by her quills. And because of this, Hurtsy is sad and feels bad. In this story Hurtsy meets several animals that are hurting one another and Hurtsy wants to show them how to love, but she can’t because of her sharp quills. Hurtsy must use some bravery and ingenuity to solve this prickly problem.
Every page of this wonderful children’s book is artistically drawn and each piece of art is bright and colorful and fits the tone of the story. Throughout the story Hurtsy is followed by a thought bubble which shows her inner feeling; which is often different from what she is showing to others. I thought this was a unique way to show kids how sometimes our external appearance hides our internal emotions. I really like how this book was able to help kids visualize a complex idea like this.
The story is told in rhyme which flows nicely. The words are easy to understand, but this is a book that adults will want to read to kids because of the aforementioned complex emotional ideas delivered in this book. Sometimes it’s not easy to discern the thoughts from the person as Hurtsy interacts with her own thought bubble.
This is a very cute story that delivers an important message in a unique way. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to teach their kids about emotions, talking about them, learning tough lessons, and reconciling differences between people.
Pages: 26 | ASIN: B07D734LK3
LITERARY TITAN 