Author: authoranthonyavinablog

Anthony Avina, (Born March 1990), is an author, a journalist, and a blogger. Born in Southern California, he has battled through injuries, disabilities, moves back and forth across the country, and more, yet still maintains a creative voice that he hopes to use not only to entertain but to inspire hope in even the darkest situations. He writes short stories and novels in several genres, and is also a seasoned journalist for the online magazine, On Request Magazine, as well as the popular site TheGamer. Having grown up reading the books of Dean Koontz and Stephen King, they inspired him to write new and exciting stories that delved into the minds of richly developed characters. He constantly tries to write stories that have never been told before, and to paint a picture in your mind while you are reading the book, as if you could see every scene of the book as if it were a movie you were watching. His stories will get your imaginations working, and will also show that in spite of the most despairing and horrific situations, hope is never out of reach. He am always writing, and so there will never be a shortage of new stories for your reading pleasure. http://www.authoranthonyavinablog.com

Miami’s Great Hurricane: September 18th, 1926 by Karen Dustman Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author Karen Dustman shares the shocking stories of those who endured the hurricane that tore apart Miami in 1926 in the book “Miami’s Great Hurricane: September 18th, 1926.”

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The Synopsis

One hundred years ago, an unexpected tempest roared ashore in Miami, leaving destruction in its wake. Through gripping personal stories and rare vintage photographs, this book brings the forgotten hurricane vividly to life. Survivors recount moments of terror, resilience, and hope as they braved the storm’s wrath and its aftermath. This devastating event proved to be a watershed moment for Miami, abruptly ending its overheated real estate boom and sending the city spiraling toward the Great Depression.

Blending history with deeply human experiences, this powerful narrative reveals how one devastating day reshaped a city—and the lives of those who endured it. An invaluable resource for Miami enthusiasts interested in exploring the city’s turbulent past, it’s also perfect for history fans, weather buffs, educators, and anyone drawn to stories of survival, courage, and resilience.

The Review

This was a fascinating and compelling read. The author did an incredible job of capturing both the rich history of Miami and Florida as a whole and showcasing the depth of destruction and horror so many residents faced in the midst of and in the wake of this deadly hurricane. The powerful imagery in the author’s writing style, when paired with the detailed research and photographic evidence the author collected, made the storm and its aftermath feel visceral and captivating on the page.

The author was also able to make this story feel both historical and personal at the same time. From the book’s onset, the author effectively conveys the individual nature of the book’s research, as the story of her father’s survival with his family during this storm and the harsh aftermath became an integral part of her family’s history. The book does an incredible job of highlighting the difficulties Miami and its people faced in the wake of the storm, especially during the ensuing Great Depression years. However, amidst all these heartbreaking stories, there were also stories of hope and resilience, which spoke to the human spirit as a whole.

The Verdict

Heartfelt, thoughtful, and engaging, author Karen Dustman’s “Miami’s Greatest Hurricane” is a must-read nonfiction book. The detail and the wealth of photographs the author provides, as well as the poignant commentary on the destructive power of both nature and humanity, and the hope that can be found in both. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Karen is a California-based journalist and author, with more than fifteen nonfiction books and hundreds of magazine articles in print. Her freelance articles have appeared in the pages of Ladies’ Home Journal, Family Circle, Natural Health, and Westways magazines, and her early how-to books attracted national attention, including appearances on Discovery Channel and Good Day New York.

Sharing her passion for California/Nevada history, Karen launched Clairitage Press — dedicated to stories of untold heroes and forgotten sites in the Sierra. Books in this line include a history of old Silver Mountain City, walking tours of the Old Genoa Cemetery, and much more. In her free newsletter, Karen shares adventurous rambles in the Sierra plus true tales about fascinating and forgotten historic sites. Visit Karen’s blog to read back issues, or sign up at www.clairitage.com to get your own copy of this free e-newsletter.

Karen is also passionate about capturing personal memoirs, family history, and those too-quickly-disappearing tales told by old-timers. Her warmly-received LifeStory Writing workshops and seminars provide helpful tips and tricks for capturing these important memories. And her Lifestory Workbook is designed to help you capture your own family stories, too.

Diamond on the Rocks (A.J. Cadell Mystery Book 2) by Diane Bator Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

The caterer to a Christmas Ball is found dead, and a writer and budding bed and breakfast owner must solve the case before a major ice storm hits in author Diane Bator’s “Diamond on the Rocks”, the second book in the A.J. Cadell Mysteries series. 

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The Synopsis

When A. J. (Alison Jane) Cadell took over Thistlewood Manor, she fully intended to turn it into the bed and breakfast Grandma Bebe dreamed of before her death – except for a few minor hurdles. Not only does Alison have a new romance novel to finish, a Writer-in-Residence gig to get through, visitors coming from Toronto, and a party to help organize, the caterer has gone missing. More specifically, Blair Diamond who is catering the McKittrick Christmas Ball in less than two weeks.

Then Alison and her boyfriend, Mac, find Blair’s body on the beach behind Thistlewood and she is dragged into the rat’s nest that made up Blair’s life. Can she track down the killer before the Ice Storm of the Century hits Cedar Grove or will Alison become another target?

The Review

This was a masterful and gripping mystery thriller. The author did an incredible job of balancing the suspenseful atmosphere with rich character development. The small island setting and tension added to the atmospheric nature of the story, and kept the reader invested as the novel developed.

The heart of this narrative was in the compelling mystery and the dynamic character arcs. The author was able to craft characters that felt relatable, lending a cinematic quality to the overall story. The story itself had a good balance of subplots, from the hardships Alison’s sister Roxie endured upon her arrival on the island to the stress of planning a major party, and then the draw of the murder mystery surrounding the death of the caterer. The infusion of her late grandmother’s found manuscript and its relation to the mystery of Alison’s past was an even bigger draw, drawing the reader further and further into the world the author created.

The Verdict

Thrilling, entertaining, and compelling, author Diane Bator’s upcoming mystery thriller novel “Diamond on the Rocks” is a must-read and a grand entry in the A.J. Cadel Mysteries series. The twists and turns in the narrative as Alison uncovers the truth, the hints of romance between herself and Mac, and the mystery of Alison’s past all keep the reader interested and eager for the next entry in this fantastic new series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

An award-winning author, Diane Bator began writing as a kid when she fell in love with storytelling. After ten years with various traditional publishers, she’s created her own company, Escape With a Writer Publishing to relaunch her previous work plus many new titles. She is also a member of Sisters in Crime, Crime Writers of Canada, The Writers Union of Canada, and International Thriller Writers.

Diane is a proud mom of three, a Reiki Master, a blue belt in goju-ryu karate, and an artist who loves stopping at odd places on road trips. She is represented by Creative Edge Publicity.

https://www.dianebator.ca/

Life by Design: Automate to Master Time, Health, Money, and Unlock Personal Success by Marlon Buchanan Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author Marlon Buchanan shares how technology can be used to help manage the everyday tasks that consume our lives so that we can pursue the things that we are passionate about in the book “Life by Design: Automate to Master Time, Health, Money, and Unlock Personal Success.”

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The Synopsis

Imagine a life where you spend less time managing tasks and more time pursuing your passions.

In Life By Design, you’ll discover how to leverage technology to automate the everyday tasks that consume your time—so you can focus on what truly matters to you. Whether you want to spend more time with family, improve your health, or get ahead at work, this book provides the tools to help you streamline your life.

Inside, you’ll learn how to:

  • Automate your daily tasks, from finances to household chores, and free up your time for the things you love
  • Master time management by automating your schedule and staying on top of important tasks effortlessly
  • Optimize your health and fitness routines with smart tech to track and improve your well-being
  • Simplify your work life with automation tools that increase productivity and reduce stress
  • Improve your financial management by setting up automatic savings, investing, and bill payments
  • Enhance your travel experiences by automating bookings, reminders, and packing lists


Stop letting life’s demands overwhelm you. Life By Design will help you take control, create more time, and focus on what truly matters.

Start designing the life you want today—buy your copy now and unlock your potential!

The Review

This was an insightful and engaging read. The fast-paced nature of the book and the inspirational messaging of its core theme were truly empowering. The author effectively delved into a multitude of different topics, from broader social issues like FOMO and the myth of multitasking to more technical aspects, such as utilizing the climate control function for your house’s AC and freezing meals for later in the week to save time on preparation. 

The balance the author was able to find between the technical and social aspects of the book was outstanding to see. The author’s background in computer science and engineering helps showcase the importance of sales and properly utilizing technology to benefit one’s home life, without succumbing to excessive screen time that detracts from critical social moments in life. The fast pace of work life and its dominance often overshadow our connections to family and friends, and maintaining a healthy balance is crucial to a more balanced overall life. This is something the author’s book does an excellent job of addressing.

The Verdict

Honest, memorable, and engaging, author Marlon Buchanan’s “Life By Design” is a must-read nonfiction guide to time management and social skills. The technical skills and daily life improvements were both empowering and thoughtful, and this is a book readers can return to time and again for both reference and improvement in their daily lives. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Marlon Buchanan, bestselling author and IT Director, holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering from MIT and master’s degrees in Business Administration and Software Engineering from Seattle University. With over 25 years of experience in IT, software development, and smart home automation, he helps busy professionals harness technology to create more time, reduce stress, and design lives they love.

He has been automating things around his house since he was a kid. Now, his wife and kids get to enjoy the fruits of his automation and efficiency exploits. He is best known for his smart home, home networking, and cybersecurity articles on his blog HomeTechHacker and his bestselling books The Personal Cybersecurity Manual, The Home Network Manual, and The Smart Home Manual.

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Cupboard Love: A Dictionary of Culinary Curiosities by Mark Morton Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author Mark Morton releases the third edition of his beloved book of culinary terms and their history in the book “Cupboard Love: A Dictionary of Culinary Curiosities.”

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The Synopsis

“A whimsical, side-splitting, erudite, and sometimes cheeky book.” – The Globe and Mail

From everyday foods to exotic dishes, from the herbs and spices of medieval England to the cooking implements of the modern kitchen, Cupboard Love is a sumptuous feast that explores the fascinating stories behind familiar and not-so-familiar gastronomic terms.

Who knew that the word “pomegranate” is related to the word “grenade”? That “baguette” is a cousin of “bacteria”? That “soufflé” comes from the same root as “flatulence”? Who knew that “vermicelli” is Italian for “little worms,” that “avocado” comes from an Aztec word meaning “testicle,” or that “catillation” denotes the unseemly licking of plates?

Originally published in 1996 and revised and expanded in 2004, and now available again for the first time in two decades in this new edition, Cupboard Love was one of three books nominated for a 1996 Julia Child Cookbook Award in the Food Reference/Technical Category (Calphalon Award), and was included in The Globe and Mail’s list of “required reading” notable books for 1997.

Addictively readable, it takes us on a journey across cultures and history to arrive at the explanations behind some of our favorite culinary words and phrases, answering along the way those questions we’ve always had about food but were afraid to ask the cook.

The Review

This was such a fun and fascinating reference book. The author did an incredible job of exuding passion and a wealth of knowledge on the page, showcasing a wide range of terminology and the depth of research that the author poured into the book. The range of topics related to food was great to see as well, as the author not only touched upon certain types of cuisine but different events related to food as well, such as the term “groaning”, which refers to a period in the English countryside when a woman was going through the birthing process, and those in attendance would be given groaning boards to eat food from.

When it comes to reference books, one factor that always stands out to me as a reader is how much I’m left wanting to return to the book for guidance or knowledge. The author’s engaging and unique writing style keeps me invested in this book as a reference for culinary history and the world at large. The relevance for readers of European and American descent is also felt, with a profound amount of knowledge in this type of culinary terminology featured in the book.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, engaging, and memorable, author Mark Morton’s “Cupboard Love” is a must-read reference book. The book elevates culinary history to all-new levels, making this feel like more than just a dictionary or trivia book, but a genuine appreciation for the world of food and the evolution of how people view cooking and food preparation as a whole. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

I grew up with a bunch of brothers and sisters on a small farm in the south-east corner of Saskatchewan, a bleak, flat, sublime landscape that continues to define my identity and sensibilities. I was never interested in farming —and my parents knew I would likely lose a limb trying to do it—so I went to university. And then I went some more. And then some more. Eventually, I completed a PhD in sixteenth-century literature from the University of Toronto. ​I taught for a while in the south of France, and then for twelve years at the University of Winnipeg, in Manitoba. I really enjoyed teaching. 

While I was in Winnipeg, I also started doing writing and broadcasting for CBC radio, first for a regional show and then for a national show called Definitely Not the Opera. My “gig” was talking about the intersections of language and culture. Eventually, I broadcast more than a hundred columns. Also while in Winnipeg, I co-founded the Winnipeg International Writers Festival, and wrote four nonfiction books, and more than fifty columns for Gastronomica: A Journal of Food and Culture published by the University of California Press. 

​

Best of all, while in Winnipeg I met my wife (I mean she wasn’t my wife yet, but she became that😊). She—Melanie Cameron—is also a writer, having published two award-winning books. 

​

We moved to Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, where I started working at the Centre for Teaching Excellence at the University of Waterloo. Melanie and I then adopted two older children—Brandon and Laika—and then, a few years later, two more—Rukhsana and Matthew. Not surprisingly, our writing screeched to a halt while we devoted ourselves to raising our children (and our four dogs—dogs have always been integral to our family!). All of our kids are now are in their twenties and are doing well. 

​

After our kids grew up, I started writing again, but I shifted to fiction. That’s when I wrote The Headmasters, which was published by Shadowpaw Press. I’ve also completed another novel and have started writing a third one. 

​

https://www.markmorton.ca/

Rune of Destiny (Outside the Thalsparr Series Book 3) by Bjorn Leesson Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A battle being waged across time and space, as well as in the lands of the living and the dead, will determine the fate of both the light and the dark in author Bjorn Leesson’s “Rune of Destiny”, the third book in the Outside the Thalsparr series.

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The Synopsis

The Dokkrsdottir is not your ordinary Norse woman of the Viking age. One of the great warriors of her time, she soon learns that the hardest battles are not always those fought with a sword and shield. Through countless trials and tests, she is led by visions and omens on numerous adventures with the help of steadfast friends and family to discover her mysterious supernatural destiny, one more extraordinary than anyone could ever have imagined.

Rune of Destiny Summary:

The final chapter of the main story of the Dokkrsdottir’s destiny that finds the continuation of the living world in the hands of Myrgjol, her descendants, and the choices they all must make.

With battles of the “greatest warrrior” transpiring on both sides of the veil, it is a series of desperate and grueling battles to the very end before she can enjoy her reward with the knowledge that the living world will continue in the loving embrace of the Light and not in ruin by the Dark.

The Review

The scale and engaging setting stood out in this story. The author did an incredible job of bringing both the physical and spiritual worlds to life on the page, showcasing the imagery in the author’s writing as they shifted between the jumps in periods and showcased Dokkrsdottir’s life on the other side of the veil. The balance of threats that the protagonists faced was excellent as well, as the human threats perfectly paralleled the different forces of darkness that pursued them, especially the Thule Society and their hunt for gateways around the world.

While the series has become known for some great action, this novel added more depth to the spiritual nature of the narrative os well. The world knows the protagonist in this story as a proud and strong warrior. Still, the novel takes the time to reveal those vulnerable moments that the protagonist experiences, from being reunited with lost loved ones to making peace with being separated from others she loves in her family, and much more. The mythos and culture of Viking history were well represented here. The protagonist’s connection to her family, loved ones, and people allowed the reader to connect to the story on a much grander scale.

The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and thrilling, author Bjorn Leesson’s “Rune of Destiny” is a must-read supernatural thriller meets historical fiction novel. The twists and turns in the story, the cosmic journey the characters find themselves on, and the heartfelt connection readers will share with the protagonist will keep them enthralled as they await the next entry in this series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Bjorn Leesson has always been fascinated with many topics to include history, the supernatural, and writing. These interests combined led to the Outside the Thalsparr series, with the first book in the series, “Runes of the Dokkrsdottir.” Bjorn was not formally trained as a writer and has worked in the industrial manufacturing field his entire life. Writing his stories and hoping others enjoy them is a passion and not a career.

Interview with Author Brent Golembiewski

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1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I grew up in Michigan wanting to be a Disney Cartoonist but life had a different plan for me. After high school and a semester in college I joined the Air Force working on F-16s as an avionics tech. I finished my College degree going to night school and was accepted to Officer Training School where I gained my commission and went on to fly helicopters specifically the UH-1N Huey for over 17 years before retiring. My writing journey really began during a deployment to Iraq but it wasn’t until I retired I buckled down and finished my first book. I have published a Sci-Fi trilogy, another stand alone Sci-Fi dystopian novel and a self help book based on my USAF career aimed to help young people who are looking to join the USAF.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

I wrote my current book “The Boy the Cube and the Elf” to target the middle grade readers ages 8-12 with a story that is fast fun and something kids would love to read and hold their attention even if they are not avid readers.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

The theme I hope to portray is that hard work, good choices and faith in God will help you overcome any obstacle life throws your way.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I have always loved the Sci-fi realm, especially space and the unknown of what’s beyond our solar system. New technology intrigues me and the great potential we have moving forward.

5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

I would love to sit down with Nico and ask him how amazing his journey has been, what he’s learned, how learning things he never would have thought possible has affected him. 

6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

I mainly use Facebook and it has been helpful in some aspects. I see a shift to other platform and are working on learning them and seeing how they can help.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Write, Write Write. Get out there and do it. The world is full of people saying they can only to sit on their hands either scared or distracted. Just start doing it and don’t worry about anything. It’s cliche but be true to yourself.

8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

I’ve just finished the draft for the second book in my central fire series and am publishing “Flick of the Switch” on September 14th. Its a near future sci-fi about a teenage girl who attends a video game academy playing flight simulators only to find out they are real and actually fighting a war. In addition im looking to dip my toe into filming and am in the initial stages of developing a short film based on Flick of the Switch and have the screen play written.

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About the Author

Brent Golembiewski is a U. S. Air Force veteran with 20+ years of service. He started his career as an enlisted troop, working as an Electronic Warfare Technician, and completed it as an officer, never working a day as a Helicopter Evaluator Pilot, flying the mighty UH-1N “Huey”. After retiring from the USAF, he began Valkyrie Air, providing aircraft charter operations for people who find value in time. He met the love of his life in the second-worst place he’d ever been stationed and she’s still on active duty. Together they have two boys, the terrible Ts, and one old caricature of a dog that will never die.

www.authorbrentg.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066743936699

https://www.instagram.com/authorbrentg/

ลูกครึ่ง: Only Half a Person: Essays and Short Stories about Identity by Rowland Grover Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author Rowland Grover shares a collection of essays and short stories that speak to topics of culture, faith, and identity in the book “ลูกครึ่ง: Only Half a Person: Essays and Short Stories about Identity.”

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The Synopsis

When Rowland Grover asked his preschool teacher if he could ฉี่ (chi), she looked at him like he wasn’t speaking English. After holding it for too long, he peed his pants and realized he was different from everyone around him.

As a half-Thai/half-white kid raised Mormon in Idaho, shame, guilt, and confusion were normal for Rowland. He didn’t understand why he took off his shoes at his house, but his friends could keep theirs on and drag dog poop all over the floor. When Rowland lived in Thailand, Thai people said he looked farang, but white people called him Mexican. This made him wonder who he was and where he belonged.

ลูกครึ่ง: Only Half a Person is an captivating and hilarious collection of essays and short stories that explores culture, faith, and identity. The stories range from “stinky lunches” to a talking lizard questioning Rowland’s religion. Others are more serious such as when a stranger called the cops because Rowland looked threatening riding an old beach cruiser bike. Tackled with humor and heart, Rowland dives into the depths to find himself and wonders if he’ll come up for air.

The Review

This was an incredibly insightful and engaging story that is so reflective of the American experience in this day and age. Far too often, people in the United States forget just how much of a cultural melting pot the nation has become, especially when cruel actions and judgments dominate the news cycle most of the time. The honesty and relatability in the author’s writing style allowed the personal experiences and lessons the author learned throughout their life to resonate deeply as the reader delved further into this book.

The rich cultural examination presented in the author’s book was the prominent driving force behind these essays and short stories. The everyday experiences the author brought to life, from a childhood of misidentification, differing customs, and a lingering sense of otherness that children often inadvertently foster, to shared faith and much more, showcased both the differences and shared life that families of differing cultures can form, while also bringing an awareness of what makes us all different at the same time.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, engaging, and with a sense of heart and humor, author Rowland Grover’s “ลูกครึ่ง: Only Half a Person: Essays and Short Stories about Identity” is a must-read memoir meets nonfiction essay collection. The witty style of writing the author employs and the depth of introspective honesty that the author’s experiences bring to life on the page will stay with readers long after the book ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Since he was young, Rowland has loved to create stories. Whether that was using stuffed animals to portray the horror of war and class division or writing and drawing maps in a notebook for a fantasy story that was not a rip-off of any other popular series. Rowland’s debut book, ลูกครึ่ง: Only Half a Person, utilizes his love of story-telling to reflect on and analyze his life, race and ethnicity, culture, faith, family, and more.

Rowland Grover was born and raised in Idaho, which, believe it or not, is a real place in the United States. Starting in his late teens, he lived on and off in Thailand, China, and Taiwan for several years. Rowland graduated with a B.A. in International Studies because he had no life plan. Then, he enrolled at Chulalongkorn University to study Southeast Asia Area Studies, but he had to drop out because, quote, “no money.”

He currently lives in Taiwan with his wife, two children, and two cats. Besides unromantic walks on the beach, he enjoys playing video games and studying languages.

https://rowlandgroverauthor.weebly.com/

Bernard’s Song by Darius Cache Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young rapper’s world unravels after the events of a deadly shooting in author Darius Cache’s “Bernard’s Song.”

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The Synopsis

Scorned, revenge is no longer a dish best served cold for Bernard Woods leaving blood on the streets of Northside Atlanta.

Darius Cache is a voice for people of color who are teenagers, people of color who are young adults, and parents of these groups. This novel is a true to life tale centering conversations around mental health and repairing family structure related to conflict resolution, conquering substance abuse, and anger management. Bernard’s Song is an account of his actual life that can be described as biographical urban fiction. Bernard wants to be rich but doesn’t have any real goals. Bernard’s love interest is equally addicted to the fast life and takes a job working as a strip club bottle girl. Bernard and his cousin talk with thick Atlanta accents. The reader might understand what goes through the mind of Bernard—he raps with a crew called DVS. Bernard is a fraudster and thief, a robber and crack dealer who kills Teddie. Doraville becomes the site of a major shootout and Bernard is critically wounded. In his final thoughts, he walks back memories. Parallel themes of love, loyalty, and resilience mimic the life of everyday people.

Nardo is the protagonist in Bernard’s Song. Nardo is a wannabe rapper/trapper who is the main character. Nardo is a 23-year-old, black male with close-cropped black hair, athletic build and medium height. Nardo is shady. Teddie is the antagonist in Bernard’s Song. Teddie is a drug trafficker who supplies the main character. Teddie is a white male, 25 years old with blonde hair. Teddie runs a wholesale marijuana distribution operation. Alicia is the love interest in Bernard’s Song. Alicia is an aspiring chef who smokes weed and likes to drink. Alicia is a 24-year-old black female, long dark hair, athletic build with large breasts and wide hips. Alicia is scandalous. Marco, the main character’s cousin, is the confidant/ally in Bernard’s Song. Marco is the father of one child, a son. Marco is a 23-year-old black male with close-cropped black hair and similar body attributes as the main character although slightly more muscular. Marco is cunning.

The main character faces copious amounts of adversity. He endures all things until the end; most of his problems are his own doing. The main character could be a victim or a hero depending on the reader’s perspective. Inevitably, every person must face their own battles individually. Bernard’s Song does a good job of unmasking the main character and relating similarities between our common existence.

The Review

This was a powerful, honest, and visceral read. The author did a marvelous job of infusing the setting, culture, and tone of life in Atlanta in a refreshingly compelling way. The strong language and relatability many readers will have with this cast of characters help reinforce Atlanta itself as a character of sorts, capturing the gritty heart of what life in the city is like for many people while also utilizing powerful imagery in the author’s writing style to make these iconic landmarks and streets come to life on the page. 

The driving force of this narrative was the complex character development and the strong themes the story featured. The author’s exploration of the protagonist’s struggles and morality in the face of adversity and hardship was insightful, as it highlighted the clash of culture, mental health, and identity all at once. The tension and violence often endured in this Atlanta community were visceral in nature, keeping the reader in suspense as the narrative raced towards its explosive conclusion. 

The Verdict

Memorable, honest, and compelling, author Darius Cache’s “Bernard’s Song” is a must-read urban fiction and genre fiction novel. The twists and turns in the story, along with the realism the author infused into this tense and heartbreaking narrative, tell a compelling and essential tale as one man struggles to make the right choices in his life when the world around him is crumbling, keeping the reader invested in the story until the very end. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Darius Cache (pronounced kash) published his first book, Bernard’s Song, which mirrored his life and tumultuous circumstances. His company, Darius Cache Company LLC and Noah’s Fund for Mental Health Research & Education, Inc., a nonprofit organization, represent his entrepreneur mindset. He has committed 100% of Amazon book sale earnings to Noah’s Fund.

Darius Cache is the father of one son, Nahledge. He often participates in school programs and donated his children’s book, The Adventures of Veggies with Jam. His focus is brand identity and financial literacy encouraging teenagers and young adults who are people of color and their parents to pay close attention to credit scores, saving habits, and wise investments.

https://www.dariuscache.com/

Caged (Divided Series Book Two) by CC Robinson Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A young woman imprisoned and alone must find a means of escaping her confinement and warning her allies before its too late in author CC Robinson’s “Caged,” the second book in the Divided series. 

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The Synopsis

The second book in the gripping, award-winning Divided series is here!

The walls are closing in on Rose.
But when powerful enemies move her from house arrest to a literal prison, Rose finds herself alone. Caged. And without help.

Isolated from her friends and allies, yet stumbling on the truth of her captors’ schemes, Rose must free herself. If she doesn’t make it out in time, evil oppressors will take over her city.

Can Rose escape her cage before her foes win and destroy what took the Underground generations to build?

Find out in the second book in the award-winning YA dystopian Divided series that reviewers say reminds them of such classic YA dystopian as Divergent and The Giver.

This book is best read AFTER reading Divided: Book One in the Divided Series.

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The Review

In a time when most of the world feels like it is teetering on the edge of a dystopian event, this book perfectly captures both the struggles of living under a tyrannical government and the hope that can stem from finding community and solace in the company of friends and allies. The visceral, gritty tone that the author captured in this novel will sit with readers long after the book ends, and yet the glimmers of hope that arise in those small moments between the characters will resonate with readers as a welcome reprieve for characters that feel relatable and earnest in their desire to free their family, friends, and city.

The balance of action-driven narrative and emotional character growth was well-developed in this story. The fear, rage, and mistrust that comes with living in a society where anyone can turn on you in a moment’s notice, while also finding those moments of hope and joy amongst those you love and trust, was a fine line the author perfectly articulated in this story. The protagonist especially brought this to life, showcasing a fierce loyalty and strength of character as she relentlessly pursued her path, as well as the steady growth of her friends and allies like Marcos, Jason, and Harriet, felt well-earned and encouraging in the face of such overwhelming odds. 

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining, author CC Robinson’s “Caged” is a must-read addition to the Divided series and a fantastic dystopian YA thriller. The twists and turns in the narrative, the glimmers of hope that resonate with readers, and the emotional undertones will stay with readers and leave them eager for the next chapter in this series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

CC Robinson is the award-winning debut author of the Divided series, a dystopian series set in a racially divided world. CC has more than two decades’ experience working in cross-cultural settings as both a medical doctor bringing healthcare to post-civil war nations around the globe and as an Associate Pastor at a multi-ethnic congregation led by an African-American man in Cincinnati, the setting for Divided. She wrote Divided out of concern for our nation’s divisiveness and racial hatred.

Divided portrays a racially divided world in which four teens meet in an underground rebel organization and must work together despite cultural differences to prevent the dictator’s nation-annihilating territory grab.

CC lives in Cincinnati, OH with her husband, three Gen Z grown and flown kids, one cat named Newt who thinks he’s a dog and a real lap dog named Sadie. When CC’s not writing or working at her church, you can find her in the garden, elbow deep in dirt. Follow her on socials (@ccrobinsonauthor) or sign up for her monthly email newsletter on her website.

https://www.ccrobinsonauthor.com/