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Like a Lily Among the Thorns
Karen S. Bell’s Like a Lily Among the Thorns mixes romance, personal growth, and a touch of magic. The story revolves around Gabby Bernstein, a young woman in New York City who clings to optimism despite life’s tough breaks. Things take a sharp turn when she crosses paths with the mysterious Countess Anastasia Ivanova. Their friendship opens new doors for Gabby, pushing her toward a life-changing transformation.
Bell’s writing style is poetic, vivid, and full of detail, making every scene pop. Whether it’s Gabby’s simple morning routine or the lush garden of the Countess, the words pull you in. You can almost see and feel everything through Gabby’s eyes. The way Bell blends everyday life with a dash of the mystical gives the story a unique, almost magical vibe. Gabby’s constant reflections, while key to her character, add depth to the story. They offer insight into her mindset and her journey. These moments allow readers to connect more deeply with her. Her focus on gratitude and mindfulness is central and enriches the narrative. While these reflections do slow the pace a bit, they also create a thoughtful, introspective atmosphere that adds to the story’s charm. The bond between Gabby and the Countess is where the magic really happens. Watching them grow and heal together is both moving and inspiring. As the Countess reveals more of herself, her role as a mentor to Gabby becomes more compelling. There’s a scene where Gabby finally faces her painful past that hits hard. It’s raw and emotional, showing just how good Bell is at capturing real, deep feelings.
Like a Lily Among the Thorns is a solid pick for readers who enjoy stories that focus on characters, with a sprinkle of magic. The book’s poetic language and thoughtful narrative dig deep into life’s ups and downs and the path to personal growth. This book is the perfect mix of the ordinary with a little bit of magic.
Pages: 231 | ASIN : B09V5KGMJF
A Prophecy Awakened
Angie Barton’s A Prophecy Awakened extends her exciting spellbinding series, skillfully bridging the narrative between its first and final installments. The novel immerses readers in a tale that is as captivating as it is intriguing, centering on Charlotte Delgado, who, on her eighteenth birthday, is thrust into a journey of survival. Forced to flee the only family she has ever known, Charlotte is left with nothing but an ancient diary, her sole guide in deciphering cryptic, four-hundred-year-old stories that trace a predestined path walked by her ancestor—a path cloaked in mystery and steeped in peril. As supernatural forces close in and a dark prophecy unfurls, Charlotte is confronted with the chilling possibility that she may be the last witch of her lineage, with a destiny more horrifying than she ever imagined.
Barton’s writing is rich with detail, pulling readers into a world where the supernatural feels eerily tangible. The characters, especially the vampires, defy the clichés often found in popular culture. Instead, they are intricately developed, brimming with emotions, moral dilemmas, and internal conflicts that render them very human despite their otherworldly essence. Barton’s deftness in making readers empathize with these characters, only to remind them of their dark, true nature, is both startling and perfectly attuned to the world she has created.
The settings are more than just backgrounds; they are fundamental to the story’s atmosphere and themes. From ominous, gothic castles to mist-shrouded forests, each location is vividly rendered, heightening the narrative’s mood and tension. The stark contrast between the cold, ancient world of the vampires and more modern settings amplifies the characters’ internal struggles, mirroring their battles with identity and destiny.
At its heart, A Prophecy Awakened is a story of identity, destiny, and the choices we make against overwhelming odds. It delves into the conflict between desire and duty, exploring how we reconcile the different facets of ourselves when they seem irreconcilable. These themes elevate the fantastical elements of the story, transforming it from a mere supernatural tale into a reflection on the human condition.
The novel’s narrative structure deserves special mention, as Barton expertly weaves together multiple storylines across different worlds and times. This intricate web of narratives builds tension gradually, culminating in a collision of worlds that is both exhilarating and emotionally shattering. The bold cliffhanger at the end leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
A Prophecy Awakened is a novel that sparks the imagination and stirs emotions. With its vivid settings, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, it’s clear why readers are so eager for the third book in this compelling series.
Pages: 392 | ASIN : B0D726W7YX
Immortal Wounds
Immortal Wounds emerges as Angie Barton’s masterful confluence of historical fiction, fantasy, and gothic mystery. She captivates with a narrative where history and magic converge with haunting results, smudging the boundaries between epochs. The novel plunges into a gripping ordeal as Isobel confronts the gruesome murders of her mother and husband. A startling revelation follows when a vampire, claiming to be her father, confesses to the crimes. Driven by desperation and the magic at her disposal, Isobel flees through time to unearth her origins, only to land in an era not her own.
Navigating through this alien century, Isobel peels back layers of her history, finding herself woven into a dire prophecy that has shaped destinies for ages. Angie Barton’s narrative prowess shines as she transports readers to a time rife with witch burnings and supernatural schemes. Every element of the setting contributes to an ambiance filled with suspense and enigma, turning each shadow into a repository of secrets. Barton’s fusion of immediate danger with timeless conflict ensnares readers, propelled by twists that keep them perched on the brink of revelation.
Character development is rich; every figure is imbued with intricate motives and emotions, rendering them both authentic and engaging. The historical backdrop not only enriches the tale’s fantastical elements but also reflects the grim realities of past persecutions, mirroring modern themes of injustice and societal fears. Witch burnings become a grim metaphor for the perils of ignorance, while the seamlessly woven supernatural facets like time travel and prophecy amplify the narrative’s resonance.
Approaching its finale, Barton skillfully resolves crucial conflicts yet hints at more to come, hinting at a sequel that many will await with keen interest. Immortal Wounds transcends the typical vampire story, offering a deep exploration of human endurance, the tangled skein of fate, and the ceaseless potency of familial bonds and love. It stands as a compelling recommendation for readers of historical fantasy and those seeking a narrative that reverberates beyond the last page.
Pages: 317 | ASIN : B0D9XTF25K
Grimmer Revisionist Fairy Tales, Fables, and Nursery Rhymes
Remember those cherished childhood moments, listening to bedtime stories filled with classic fairy tales, fables, and nursery rhymes? Perhaps you’ve even read these timeless tales to your own kids. Now imagine taking those beloved stories, throwing out the rulebook, and infusing them with modern twists, witty humor, and a dash of cheeky irreverence.
Grimmer Revisionist Fairy Tales, Fables, and Nursery Rhymes by Marissa Carter is a delightful blend of styles, presenting fairy tales and fables with a twist. The nursery rhymes might start off sweet but could suddenly veer into snarky commentary or transform into entirely different stories. Along the way, you’ll encounter clever nods to pop culture, movies, books, politics, and even a bit of quantum physics (because, why not?). It’s as if someone turned your grandma’s storybook inside out and sprinkled it with a generous dose of mischief. Get ready to laugh because this isn’t your childhood fairy tale collection—and that’s exactly what makes it so much fun. Marissa Carter has crafted a hilarious adult take on well-known nursery rhymes. This book is definitely not for children, but it’s perfect for parents looking for a good laugh. Each story is funnier than the last, and the new spin on the fable/fairy tale genre is incredibly entertaining. Carter provides unique commentary with each story, offering readers insights into how we as a society view and absorb the themes of these iconic tales. The fast-paced nature of each fable, combined with modern-day story elements like the internet and television, makes it easy to devour these stories. The imaginative use of imagery brings these tales to life on the page. From parenting techniques and anger management to higher education, the wealth of modern themes breathes fresh air into these traditional stories.
Grimmer Revisionist Fairy Tales, Fables, and Nursery Rhymes takes familiar fairy tales, fables, and nursery rhymes and puts a comedic, new-age spin on them. While it’s definitely not for children, it’s a must-read for adults who appreciate humor and wit. This brilliant collection turns well-known stories on their heads, offering twists to the morals or even the absence of them altogether. The relatability of these stories as an adult and their inappropriately funny nature make for a truly enjoyable read.
Pages: 92 | ASIN : B08KPN2SJB
Spiritual Pursuit
In Dream Fisher, a man disenchanted with day-to-day life embarks on a life-changing journey after meeting a wanderer capable of navigating dreams. Where did the idea for this story come from?
From an early age, I had the curious notion that there must be something akin to magic that binds our reality. This nagging inquiry followed me into young adulthood, where I began to study spiritual philosophy with a keen interest in the intersection between metaphysical philosophy and science.
In recent years, the field of metaphysics has undergone a significant expansion, offering a wealth of information on personal development, psychology, past lives, near-death experiences, and more. I wanted to transition some of the concepts being examined philosophically and scientifically and put them into a dramatic story so the ideas could come to life in a less “clinical” context. I wanted to express these phenomena as woven into the fabric of our everyday life, echoing the essence of the Magical Realism genre.
What was your approach to writing the interactions between Jason and Loansome?
I have a thirty-year-plus connection to the Native American community, where I have experienced the lack of cultural conflicts that persist following the European domination of the West.
The interactions between Jason and Loansome reflect the cultural divide between Americans and First Nations People. There is a lack of awareness ever-present in Americans’ relationships with people who have suffered generations of abuse. And yet, many Natives still have the compassion to help the ones most responsible for global imbalance, as their wisdom to do so is inextricably embedded in their culture.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The power of humanity to evolve through compassion, creative visualization, and dreams. The enormous impact that the formation of America had on hundreds of millions of First Nations people in the West. The egoic motivation that is often found within spiritual pursuit. And the power of love to heal all things — across an experience we call time — even into the afterlife.
I find a problem in well-written stories, in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned?
I am so grateful that this story has been well-received. Thank you! Yes, a second book is in the making. All the characters return—with some new ones. The next segment of the Dream Fisher will be titled The Weight of Wanting. I have started the plot and character developments, roughed out numerous scenes, and hope to start writing in the fall of 2024. In my opinion, the story is stacking up to be better than the first.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Jason Sanders is starved for meaning in his daily grind and tedious career. A chance encounter with a desert vagabond named Loansome ignites intrigue when the strange man claims he can navigate people’s dreams.
Desperate to break free from his empty existence, Sanders plunges into the mechanics of dream travel, where he finds himself on the edge of an eight-thousand-foot cliff, “This is where you cross the bridge into dreams. You have to wake up over there,” Loansome says, pointing toward another mesa two miles away.
Jason’s leap sends him hurdling into a realm where reality itself becomes questionable. Words emerge within the growl of a mountain lion, an unassuming woman speaks to him from the future, and he uncovers a hidden door in his childhood home.
Amid a whirlwind of surreal events that span past, present, and future, unforeseen connections emerge, revealing genuine meaning within the chaos of modern existence.
Dream Fisher seizes the imagination with its fusion of magic, suspense, and outrageous scenes while casting a scornful glare at society’s superficial facade. Massive twists trigger hidden connections within a vivid landscape of dreams.
Dream Fisher
Dream Fisher, by Pete Beebe, is an engrossing metaphysical adventure novel that explores the boundaries between reality and dreams. The story centers on Jason Sanders, a man disillusioned with the monotony of his everyday life. His encounter with Loansome, a mysterious wanderer who can navigate dreams, kicks off a surreal adventure and transformative journey. Throughout this journey, Jason faces various challenges, such as fighting a mountain lion and forming unexpected connections, ultimately leading him to discover profound truths and a renewed sense of purpose.
Beebe is a master of the metaphysical genre. The vivid description of the setting creates striking imagery that further draws readers into an engaging plot. A standout quality of the author’s writing is the philosophical depth given to the character’s development. From the start, readers are drawn into a world where the lines between the tangible and the imagined are beautifully blurred. Jason’s evolution from a detached observer of life to someone profoundly invested in making a difference highlights the story’s exploration of self-discovery and existential yearning. The relationship between Jason and Loansome is not only a driving force in the plot but also serves as a vehicle for exploring deeper truths about human connection and the nature of dreams. “In dream-time, we see what we want to see. It’s not really what we want…It’s what our souls want so we can be healed…”
Dream Fisher prompts readers to reflect on their own lives and the essence of reality itself. The dream sequences are particularly noteworthy, each crafted with a richness that makes them feel both otherworldly and intimately familiar. This novel is a must-read for those seeking an adventure within their own consciousness. It is not just a story but an invitation to look beyond the surface of our daily lives and explore the deeper currents that shape our reality. Highly recommended.
Pages: 222 | ASIN : B0D2VFZKVN
Butterfly Ink
Butterfly Ink by Lori Keating is a compelling tale of self-discovery and transformation. The story follows Calli Stockton, a young woman whose life of fame, beauty, and fortune is upended by a magical tattoo that changes her outward appearance. Through a series of emotionally charged events, Calli learns profound lessons about authenticity, friendship, and inner beauty, ultimately leading her to a heartfelt decision to embrace her true self.
Keating’s writing is engaging and relatable, making it easy to become immersed in Calli’s journey. The character development is particularly strong, with Calli’s evolution from a superficial social media star to a genuine, self-aware individual being both believable and inspiring. One of the most poignant moments is when Calli decides to write an open letter to her followers, revealing her true self and rejecting the pressures of societal beauty standards. This act of vulnerability not only marks a turning point for Calli but also resonates deeply with readers who have felt similar pressures.
The book’s ideas on beauty and self-worth are thought-provoking. Keating challenges the conventional notions of beauty through Calli’s experiences with her magical tattoo, which initially provides her with physical perfection but ultimately leaves her feeling empty. The contrast between Calli’s superficial relationships and the genuine connections she forms when she embraces her true self is striking. For instance, the bond she forms with Daisy, a young girl at the camp, underscores the theme that true beauty and worth come from within. Keating also excels in creating vivid and memorable scenes that stay with the reader. The description of Calli and Amanda’s butterfly-themed photo shoot is particularly enchanting, capturing the magical realism that permeates the story. These imaginative elements add a layer of depth to the narrative, making it not just a story of personal growth but also a whimsical adventure.
Butterfly Ink is a heartfelt and beautifully written novel that I would highly recommend. It is especially suitable for young adults and anyone grappling with issues of self-image and authenticity. Lori Keating’s ability to weave a magical tale while addressing real-world issues makes this book a valuable read for those looking to find the courage to be their true selves.
Pages: 315 | ASIN : B0CYJQTJ1M
The Door to Trilesk
The Door to Trilesk by Shannon Holly is an evocative tale that delves into the journey of self-discovery and embracing one’s true identity. The story centers on Kate, a young woman who inherits the traveler gene from her family lineage, a trait her mother, Janice, vehemently opposed activating. The narrative begins when Janice decides to sell Aunt Esmerelda’s house, compelling Kate to visit the place that holds the key to her suppressed memories. As Kate spends time in the house, she begins to recall the summer she spent there with her aunt at the age of eight. These resurfaced memories awaken her latent traveler abilities, setting her on a path of conflict with her mother to preserve the house and her freedom. Through this struggle, Kate not only embraces her true self but also unlocks the potential to rescue her aunt from mysterious captors.
Set firmly within the fantasy genre, The Door to Trilesk captivates with its imaginative realms and magical dimensions. Holly skillfully blends the present with the past, creating a seamless narrative highlighting self-acceptance’s importance. Kate’s journey is a poignant reminder that one cannot escape their true nature. Suppressed for years, her traveler gene reactivates when she reconnects with her past, leading her to abandon her former career aspirations in favor of a fulfilling life as a traveler. Holly’s writing is both accessible and engaging, guiding the reader effortlessly through the transitions between past and present. The vivid descriptions of Kate and Esmerelda’s experiences create a realistic portrayal, though Janice’s character development introduces a layer of ambiguity, making the reader question the reality of these events. The male characters serve as a backdrop that highlights the strength and complexity of the female protagonists, adding a unique dynamic to the story. The narrative’s mystery, especially surrounding why Janice’s door leads to a dark dimension, adds an intriguing layer that keeps readers engaged and eager to uncover more.
The Door to Trilesk is a compelling read that combines magical elements with a heartfelt exploration of identity and personal growth. Shannon Holly’s talent for storytelling shines through, making this book a worthwhile addition to the fantasy genre.
Pages: 227 | ASIN : B0CW9FRJPQ
LITERARY TITAN 