Tag: fiction

Bright Midnights (The Limerent Series Book 2) by LS Delorme 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. 

A young woman meets a young man in her dreams that changes everything in the waking world in author LS Delorme’s “Bright Midnights,” the second book in the Limerent series.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Most high school students find life challenging, but 17-year old Amelie has a lot more to contend with than typical teenage angst. Ever since she turned 11, others have been irresistibly drawn to her—with tragic consequences. Her only escape is at night when she flies to different times and places through her “dreams”. Her life begins to change when, on one of her flights, she meets Clovis, an alluring and mysterious young man who hides a secret.

As Amelie finds herself increasingly drawn to him, she learns his story, how it intertwines with her own and finally discovers how to live her life in the real world. Until her own secrets are revealed to the wrong people and that world turns upside down.

Bright Midnights is the second in the Limerent Series and continues in the thought-provoking and beautiful style of the first as it considers different dimensions, different ways of looking at the world, and the transcendental power of love.

The Review

This was such a powerful and compelling read. As a newcomer to the series, the author did an amazing job of creating a story and world that felt self-contained and yet connected to the series through the powerful metaphysical nature of the plot points. The grounded nature of the protagonists life is greatly balanced with the supernatural elements of her life walking through other worlds in her mind and the powerful imagery the author uses in their writing style makes this come alive on the page.

The heart of this narrative was in the character development of the narrative, especially the protagonist. The complex and even heartbreaking dynamics within her own family and the people in her life are explored in great detail, and the connection she forms to this mystery boy in the other world takes some truly unexpected turns. Yet it was Amelie’s unique ability to sense things in others around her that was so fascinating. As someone who has family who can get vibes and feelings off of others in similar ways, the exploration of this phenomenon in such a dynamic way was truly compelling.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, emotionally-driven, and memorable, author LS Delorme’s “Bright Midnights” is a must-read metaphysical fantasy romance novel. The dark tones of the world Amelie finds herself in in her waking life and the dynamic worlds she immerses herself into and the rich mythos behind it all will keep readers invested until the book’s final chapters. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Lexy Delorme was born in San Diego, California. After graduating from the University of North Carolina School of law, various internships and years working in risk, tax, family, and international law, she now classifies herself as a recovering attorney.

With a father who served in the US Military, Lexy had a wandering lifestyle from her earliest days and in her time has been a pop musician, a science geek and a writer for magazines like Bonjour Paris and Playtimes. Throughout all of her different careers, her love of fiction has been a mainstay.

Within this eclectic life, she was also one of the first employees at 23andMe, a genomics and biotechnology company based in Mountain View, California and that experience influenced the genetic aspects of her Limerent Series, of which Caio is the first book.

For as long as she can remember she’s had characters in her head. As a child, these were the friends she wished to have. As a young woman, the lovers she wanted to find or the people she wanted to become. Writing fiction novels allows her the chance to give these characters a background, a story and a voice.

Having lived in in 3 continents, 9 US states, and 21 cities around the world, including London and Hong Kong, Lexy now lives in Paris with her French husband and two very cool sons. She is currently working on the next books in the Limerent Series.

https://www.lsdelorme.com/

SCHEHERAZADE: A TALE FROM THE ARABIAN NIGHTS BY ALBERT SELIGMAN 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 Albert Seligman reintroduces the classic tale of Arabian Nights using original artwork and translations, as well as over 50 unique illustrations, in the book “SCHEHERZADE: A TALE FROM THE ARABIAN NIGHTS.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

“No one knows where the tales were written, except that they came out of the Far East, India, Arabia and Persia. Haroun Al Raschid, who was called The Just, was a real Eastern monarch who lived in Baghdad over eleven hundred years ago, about the same time that Charlemagne was King of France. We can believe that the tales are very old, but the most we know is that they were translated from Arabic into French in 1704-17 by a Frenchman named Galland, and that the manuscript of his translation is preserved in the French National Library. American boys first had the chance to read the notes in English about the time President Monroe was elected.” (1817) (The Junior Classics, Volume 5: Stories that never grow old, Editor William Patten, 1912).

SCHEHERAZADE

A TALE FROM THE ARABIAN NIGHTS

Dulacebooks’ new Arabian Nights series presents these tales decorated with the illustrations from the original editions of the Victorian and Golden Age. Over fifty different illustrators’ versions of these stories are reproduced here, fully restored and many in full color. These are the finest examples of the artists and illustrators of the Arabian Nights, including-

Arthur Rackham, Edmund Dulac, Kay Nielsen, René Bull , Maxfield Parrish, William H Robinson, Thomas H Robinson, Charles Robinson, Thomas Mackenzie, Walter Crane, Louis Rhead, Helen Stratton, Virginia Frances Sterrett, Elizabeth Mackinstry, John Gilbert, HJ Ford, Edward J Detmold, Eric Pape, AE Jackson, Willy Pogany, Milo Winter, Monroe S Orr, Charles Folkard, Walter Paget, William Stang, JD Batten, Frances Brundage, Gustav Dore, FOC Darley, William Harvey, the Brothers Dalziel, and many others.

The first book in the series is how the 1001 nights begin, with Scheherazade and her sister weaving the tales to her new husband Schahriar, the Sultan. The Tales in this edition are:

The Sultan and his Vow

The Fable of the Ass, the Ox, and the Laborer

The Story of the Merchant and the Genie

The History of the First Old Man and the Hind

The History of the Second Old Man and the two Black Dogs

 The Review

This book was so beautifully restored and written. The beautiful illustrations on each page were so unique and compelling, allowing the reader to feel immersed in these stories and the legends being told. The overall narrative of this sultan and his cruel turn and the young woman determined to find a way to stop his cruelty was a great way to allow the other stories to come to life, and the father’s tales helped shape the cruel nature of the world around them as he tries to desperately save his daughter from a choice that could cost her everything. 

What really made this story shine was not just the narrative and unique characters, but the cultural exploration and history that went into the book itself. The stories being told come from centuries before, and each illustration and translation of the original texts showcase the level of depth and detail the author put into bringing these classics to life once more. The imagery depicted in the book coming from both the Victorian age and the Golden Age made the stories feel more mythological in a way, and the lessons taught through these fables felt even more impactful in a world seeing so much injustice at the moment.

The Verdict

Culturally-impactful, thoughtful, and engaging, author Albert Seligman’s “SCHEHERAZADE: A TAPE FROM THE ARABIAN NIGHTS” is a must-read restoration of a classic collection of fables. The rich history and context around these stories, and the heartfelt underlying story of a father trying to protect his daughter from a cruel fate helps elevate the powerful imagery and high stakes these tales represented. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

I am a lifelong fan of illustrated books and magazines and passed many pleasant hours collecting books and sharing information and images with fellow collectors and dealers. I was especially interested in the “Golden Age of Illustration” between 1875-1925. I was a strong collector of Edmund Dulac illustrated books, and was able to photograph the complete collection of his ‘American Weekly’ magazine illustrations from the San Francisco Academy of Comic Art owned by Bill Blackbeard. ‘The American Weekly’ was the Sunday supplement for the WR Hearst newspaper chain, and boasted over 50 million readers in over 20 major markets. The complete collection of 106 illustrations is now housed at The Ohio State University in the Billy Ireland Comic Art Museum. These ‘American Weekly’ illustrations have rarely appeared in print since their publication, and this is the first complete edition.

These print editions and eBooks are intended to make more of Edmund Dulac’s beautiful watercolors and illustrations available for everyone to enjoy. The publishing business has changed considerably over the last 30 years and by taking advantage of digital technology I have been able to publish many of his famous and lesser known illustrations in my editions.

The restored collection of all 106 American Weekly front covers is available as “The American Weekly Covers of Edmund Dulac- 100th Anniversary Edition” as both an eBook and paperback. A fully restored crop of each illustration is available in the series of six smaller books, also published as an eBook or paperback. These are grouped by themes, and includes the original newspaper caption or story, when available. Some original Dulac artwork and sketches are also included.

The final publication of the series is “Edmund Dulac His American Weekly Collection” written with an introduction by Ann Hughey, who wrote the bibliography of Dulac’s book illustrations. This features the illustrations cropped and fully restored, with the original newspaper captions. All of the final series ‘Tales from the Arabian Nights’ from 1951 stories are also included.

As I wind down editions of Dulac’s ‘American Weekly’ artwork, I’ll be publishing more of other Golden Age Illustrators. “Arabian Nights Illustrated” is my first book of the series including fifty other illustrators who illustrated editions of the 1001 nights in English language editions between 1800-1950. The illustrations follow the history of printing images in books, from the earliest copper engravings through woodblocks and the development of color printing through photoproduction. I published six more Arabian Nights books, all with illustrations by Victorian and Golden Age artists and illustrators. All are available as both paperbacks and eBooks.

If anyone is wondering if I am the same author of “The Sport Band System”, indeed I am. Unfortunately, the Sport Bands are no longer being produced. After writing this instruction manual I spent my last years in the training profession at UCSF in the Dept. of Neurology. There I had the privilege of working with medical professionals and patients developing physical training rehabilitation programs for MS, stroke, PD, SCI and other neurological related maladies. I retired in 2008 and now I am enjoying my “Golden Years” working with the Dulac eBooks project.

https://dulacebooks.com/

The Breaking of TIme: Chronicles of the Arvynth by J.J. Hebert 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. 

A father’s desperate attempt to save his son awakens a powerful order he betrayed long ago in author J.J. Hebert’s “The Breaking of TIme,” the first book in the Chronicles of Arvynth series. 

Advertisements

The Synopsis

USA Today bestselling author J. J. Hebert’s brand-new urban fantasy series Chronicles of the Arvynth begins with The Breaking of Time, a novel about a devoted father whose desperate act to save his son fractures reality itself, awakening ancient magic and drawing him back into the path of an immortal order he once betrayed, where love, time, and silence collide in a race against eternity.


🏆 Mariel Hemingway’s Book Club Selection (Best Urban Fantasy):

“This novel is heartfelt, gripping, and memorable in all the best ways.” —Mariel Hemingway, Bestselling Author & Oscar-Nominated Actress ★★★★★


ONE FATHER’S DESPERATE CHOICE FRACTURES TIME AND REALITY ITSELF.

To everyone around him, Daniel Ward is a mild-mannered accountant, devoted husband and father in a quiet New England suburb. But when his ten-year-old son chases a runaway soccer ball into the street, straight into the path of a speeding truck, Daniel does the impossible. He freezes time.

That single act of defiance exposes the secret he’s buried for decades. His magic awakens the ancient order he once betrayed, the Arvynth, a brotherhood of immortal sorcerers devoted to stillness and death, determined to silence the world.

As his carefully constructed life unravels, Daniel must protect his family while evading the brotherhood that hunts him. Every second he steals from time feeds the void that seeks to consume it, threatening not only the people he loves but reality itself.

Forced to choose between sacrifice and survival, Daniel discovers the truth: sometimes the loudest act of love is defiance.

The Breaking of Time is a race against eternity, a supernatural thriller that fuses urban fantasy and family drama in a story about the noise of life, the cost of power, and one father’s desperate fight to keep the world from falling silent.

The Review

This was such a compelling, thrilling read. The author does a remarkable job of world-building early on in the narrative, introducing the cast of characters and the mythos of the Arvynth quickly as to allow the readers to feel immersed in the shock and awe the protagonist’s family feels when they discover his hidden world. The author’s writing style is so powerfully imaginative and uses imagery perfectly to capture the raw emotions and magic of the world with perfect clarity. 

Yet it was the world-building and character dynamics that really became the backbone of this story. The shock Daniel’s wife feels when she discovers her husband’s past and the fear that comes when their family is targeted can be felt in every chapter, and yet it is Daniel’s growing desperation and the raw emotional reaction that jumpstarted the events of the book that really made the narrative feel fresh and compelling, and gave readers a rich and unique new take on the fantasy genre to delve into.

The Verdict

Memorable, thought-provoking, and entertaining, author J.J. Hebert’s “The Breaking of TIme” is a must-read paranormal fantasy thriller and a great entry into the author’s Chronicles of Arvynth series. The emotional core of Daniel’s love for his family and the haunting realities his past has on his future will resonate with so many readers out there, and keep them enthralled as the Arvynth and their god, The Silence, become the specter that haunts him throughout the narrative. Filled with twists and turns that readers won’t expect, this is one new paranormal fantasy thriller readers won’t want to miss. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

J. J. Hebert is the #1 Amazon, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of eight books, including his acclaimed debut Unconventional and The Backwards K, which, according to Newsweek, is currently in development for film adaptation. His latest #1 bestsellers, both published in 2025, are The Breaking of Time: Chronicles of the Arvynth and The Hands-On Author: Taking Control of Your Book Marketing Journey. A lifelong New England resident, Hebert frequently weaves the region’s landscapes and atmosphere into his storytelling. He is also the award-winning CEO and Founder of MindStir Media, a leading hybrid book publisher. Join his community of over 2 million followers across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) @authorjjhebert.

Bestselling books from J.J. Hebert

Versions of Nirvana by H.C. Turk 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. 

An 18th century witch reaches out metaphysically to help those in the future struggling in author H.C. Turk’s “Versions of Nirvana.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis 

In order to save her family, an 18th-century witch entertains suicide, thereby entering a coma-like trance that lasts 300 years. In this magical state, she reaches into the future to guide other people who long for redemption.

England, 1710. Young Alba knows she is a witch, but the term means nothing until her mother is executed for witchcraft. Then Alba enters a trance that causes everyone around her debilitating emotions, just like Alba’s. The trance, which is Alba’s magic, does not appear again until years later when her mentor is arrested and sentenced to death. Panicked, Alba stabs herself in the heart. Instead of dying, she enters a “false sleep” (coma), a state of spiritual consciousness. Hoping to find peace for others, she seeks similar souls in the future:

Germany, 1942: An American soldier is mortally wounded. In his final moment, he experiences the glory of a beautiful life, if only in his dreams. He enters a spiritual realm filled with warm family adventures, metaphysical escapades that are alternately hilarious and horrific, yet always lead away from anguish. Directed by Alba’s unseen influence, Andrew fights for solace, and wins.

Indonesia, 2003: A young American woman on a Western Pacific island must relive an ancient, tortuous journey through a primitive environment in order to redeem the foreigners in the country. Influenced by a power she can only sense in her heart (Alba), Connie seeks a solution of acceptance instead of rejection.

Told with humor and compassion, the heart of the book is the longing to find peace despite haunting failure, and finding joy in helping others achieve the same.

Importantly, Versions Of Nirvana is feel-great magical realism for readers seeking more insight and originality than provided by mainstream fiction.

The Review

This was a compelling and thought-provoking read. The author does a remarkable job of creating a visceral world that feels both magical and realistic all at once. The author’s ability to jump between time periods and make the reader feel immersed in those eras was remarkable, through powerful imagery and detail that made the story come alive on the page. The heart and passion the author wrote these characters with made them feel connective and easy to empathize with through their struggles. 

The heart of this narrative was the shocking story developments and the emotional themes the author explored in this narrative. The book allowed readers to connect to the characters through shared redemption and heartbreak, with the protagonist serving as both a witness and a guide to the other characters these chapters explored. Their struggles, their losses, and their experiences with everyone around them showed them the best and worst of humanity, and the way these characters struggled against oppression and the need to find inner peace became so pivotal to the narrative. 

The Verdict

Memorable, honest, and enthralling, author H.C. Turk’s “Versions of Nirvana” is a powerful metaphysical historical fantasy read. The compelling character dynamics, rich imagery and settings, and the breathtaking themes will have readers hanging onto the author’s every word and eager for the next chapter as one ends and the next begins. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Listen up. Lookie here. Read ’em and weep:

Space pirates steal skinny gals. If you’re depressed by The Depression, should you waterboard a banker? Ideas are greater monsters than the demons they explain. I’d bare my soul, but don’t want to bore.

All of these Mystiphysical treasures can be found in my work: In a verbal world where art is the ultimate animal, fiction evolution never ends, rising from the depths of the psyche to sing across a new sky.

http://hcturk.com

http://hcturk.bandcamp.com

http://vimeo.com/hcturk

http://hcturk.tumblr.com

Dancing Deepa by Suchi Sairam 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.

A young girl yearns to share her passion for dance with her class in the book “Dancing Deepa.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Deepa LOVES to dance. She studies a dance from India called Bharatanatyam that is like moving poetry! But since her dance is different from what her friends at school do, she isn’t sure if she should share it. Is there someone like Deepa in your class at school? What passion might you two share? Read to find out how you two are alike, how you are different, and how you could be friends to one another.

The Review

This was another fantastic entry into this beautifully written children’s book series. The shift in focus to Surya’s older sister Deepa was a welcome change of pace, and gave a fresh perspective on the story. The relatability of Deepa as a protagonist and her experiences in school were well balanced by the fast pacing of the story and the warmth of the illustrations. The exploration of Bharatanatyam as a dance and the importance to Indian culture as well was phenomenal, allowing younger readers to experience a new culture while also giving younger readers of the Indian culture a story they could see themselves in.

At the heart of this book was the power of the story’s themes. The book artfully delves into peer pressure and identity again with this book, while also bringing in the power of confidence and self expression as well. The deflating feeling of feeling like you have to hide a part of yourself is a struggle far too many young people have to go through, and the power positivity and encouragment can have on a young person is greatly felt throughout this story as well.

The Verdict

Engaging, memorable, and thoughtfully written, author Suchi Sairam’s “Dancing Deepa” is a must-read illustrated children’s book. The colorful and moving illustrations when paired with the moving and powerful themes the story brings to life allow readers to greatly engage with Deepa’s character and become entranced in her experiences overall. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

SUCHI SAIRAM is an Indian-Texan-Minnesotan-American with her feet firmly and proudly planted in multiple cultures and identities. She is equally an engineer and artist, leader and entrepreneur, student and teacher.

Her passion is to integrate the arts, leadership, and entrepreneurship to help develop great people and spread good in the world around us.

Suchi’s nearly 40 year journey in the Indian classical arts as a student, teacher, dancer, choreographer and performer alongside her long career in corporate and small businesses gives her a unique worldview. She founded St. Paul, MN based dance studio and company, Kala Vandanam in 2002. Her first book, a multiple award-winning illustrated children’s book “Dancing Deepa” was inspired by her loving students at Kala Vandanam, and is dedicated to them and all of the young, aspiring dancers out there who just want to share what they love with others.

Suchi has devoted her time and talents to organizations supporting science and math education for girls, empowerment for women, the arts, and developing vibrant small businesses in her community.

Find Suchi on social media – instagram.com/suchisairam | linkedin.com/in/suchisairam

For more about Kala Vandanam – kalavandanam.com
facebook.com/kalavandanam | instagram.com/kalavandanam

Trailer – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MG-cKCRdDE8

Singing Surya Dreams to Dance by Suchi Sairam 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.

A young boy dreams of dancing in author Suchi Sairam’s “Singing Surya Dreams to Dance.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Surya likes to sing. But he LOVES to dance.
There’s only one problem.
Surya is a boy. And boys don’t dance.

Or do they?

The Review

This was an uplifting and moving children’s book read. The author does a remarkable job of conveying a sense of heart and passion into the story, infusing warm imagery and great insight into what life a child is like, both for everyday life and for those from other cultures as well. The characters feel relatable and make the reader feel connected to both the story and the life experiences the story conveys.The depth of culture the author poured into this book was amazing as well.

What really stood out was the powerful themes of this narrative. The exploration of peer pressure, identity, and following one’s dreams is very prevelant throughout the book, giving readers a chance to see how the opinions of our peers and the world around us often hinder a person’s desire to follow their dreams or passions in life. Yet the book celebrates what makes people different, and encourages children to explore those passions with zeal and bravery. The courage and positive message the story drives home and even exploring how often ideas about what certain things are associated with certain genders and how that can impact a person exploring their passions made a strong statement in this book.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, uplifting, and engaging, author Suchi Sairam’s “Singing Surya Dreams to Dance” is a must-read children’s illustrated book. The steady pacing of the narrative, rich imagery, and the memorable themes the story explores will keep young readers entertained and help educate them on how to embrace their identities and celebrate what makes them different. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

SUCHI SAIRAM is an Indian-Texan-Minnesotan-American with her feet firmly and proudly planted in multiple cultures and identities. She is equally an engineer and artist, leader and entrepreneur, student and teacher.

Her passion is to integrate the arts, leadership, and entrepreneurship to help develop great people and spread good in the world around us.

Suchi’s nearly 40 year journey in the Indian classical arts as a student, teacher, dancer, choreographer and performer alongside her long career in corporate and small businesses gives her a unique worldview. She founded St. Paul, MN based dance studio and company, Kala Vandanam in 2002. Her first book, a multiple award-winning illustrated children’s book “Dancing Deepa” was inspired by her loving students at Kala Vandanam, and is dedicated to them and all of the young, aspiring dancers out there who just want to share what they love with others.

Suchi has devoted her time and talents to organizations supporting science and math education for girls, empowerment for women, the arts, and developing vibrant small businesses in her community.

Find Suchi on social media – instagram.com/suchisairam | linkedin.com/in/suchisairam

For more about Kala Vandanam – kalavandanam.com
facebook.com/kalavandanam | instagram.com/kalavandanam

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guAo2QXImSg 

What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Blog Tours, Book Events, reviewsLeave a comment

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

A woman pushes herself to experience more of life after the sudden loss of her mother in author Caitlin Forbes’s “What Comes Next.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

An empowering and heartfelt novel about the complexities of family, the power of sisterhood, and the bravery it takes to choose happiness when all seems lost.

“My life is perfectly fine.”

Alex has pretended this for years―despite an emotionally absent father, a best friend drifting away, and a floundering dog-training business. At least Alex has her sister, Meredith, a driven polar opposite. But both their lives are upended when their estranged mother dies of a genetic condition that the sisters have a fifty-fifty chance of inheriting. For Alex, a world without her mother is uncomfortable. But a world without Meredith is unthinkable.

Alex suggests a pact to which Meredith tentatively agrees: In three months they’ll get tested. Until then they go after everything they’ve ever wanted. Alex is finally stepping out of her comfort zone and opening herself up to new relationships. Or maybe reconnecting with an old one. Nathan, a boy who once broke her heart, needs a trainer for his mixed-breed rescue. Alex can’t resist.

As sparks rekindle, and time passes much too quickly, Alex discovers more about herself, her sister, and her mother than she ever imagined. And that everything in life―especially happiness―comes with a risk worth taking.

The Review

What a heartfelt and emotional read. The author finds such a delicate yet perfect balance between exploring the grieving process, the intricacies of relationships, and the power of self-discovery. The juxtaposition of animal care with the protagonist’s life, especially with Remy and the frequency of animal abandonment due to past trauma, making it difficult to train or home them, mirrors the protagonist’s own abandonment issues and really speaks volumes throughout this story.

Yet it was the relationship between Alex and Meredith that really stood out to the reader. The way they learned to lean on one another in the absence of their parents, the loss they share, and the shock of a shared illness lingering as a possibility is something that felt so relatable as someone who inherited several ailments and the dangers that come with genetic diseases. The author artfully navigates these troubled waters by exploring the path to finding hope again in a person’s life amidst the trauma.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author Caitlin Forbes’s “What Comes Next” is a must-read women’s fiction-meets-family-drama novel. The imagery and atmosphere the author brought to life on the page, along with the compelling blend of emotional storytelling and hopeful tones, will keep readers engaged until the book’s final chapters. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Photography by Molly Haley, mollyhaley.com

Caitlin Forbes is a Maine-based author who writes stories that explore the messiness of relationships—from sisterhood to romance to the tricky relationship we have with ourselves. When not writing, you can find her chasing after her toddler (or her dog) and exploring small-town New England life. 

You can follow the author at: 

https://www.caitlinforbesauthor.com/

https://www.instagram.com/caitlin_forbes_author/

Blog Tour Calendar

December 8 @ The Muffin

Join us at the Muffin as we celebrate the launch of What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes. We interview the author and give you a chance to win a copy of the book.

https://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com

December 9 @ Kaecey McCormick’s blog

Join Kaecey’s blog for a guest post from Caitlin Forbes about why she writes and what inspires her.

https://www.kaeceymccormick.com/blog

December 11 @ Knotty Needle

Judy shares her thoughts about What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes. 

https://knottyneedle.blogspot.com/

December 12 @ CC King’s blog

Stop by Caitrin’s blog for a guest post by Caitlin Forbes on the struggle and process of publishing a debut novel.

https://www.caitrincking.com/blog

December 15 @ Sarandipity’s

Visit Sara’s blog for an excerpt from What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes. 

https://sarandipitys.com/blog/

December 18 @ Knotty Needle

Stop by Judy’s blog again for her response to our tour-themed prompt about her own dog rescue story.

https://knottyneedle.blogspot.com/

December 19 @ Nicole Writes About Stuff

Stop by Nicole’s Substack for a contribution from Caitlin Forbes.

https://nicolepyles.substack.com

December 20 @ A Wonderful World of Books

Visit Joy’s blog for an excerpt from What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes.

https://awonderfulworldofwordsa.blogspot.com/

December 20 @ Author Anthony Avina’s blog

Visit Anthony’s blog for an excerpt from What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes.

https://authoranthonyavina.com/category/blog-tours/

December 21 @ Chapter Break

Visit Julie’s blog for a guest post by Caitlin Forbes about the importance of fiction, particularly book club fiction, in this crazy time.

https://chapterbreak.net/

December 23 @ What Is That Book About?

Visit Michelle’s blog for an excerpt from What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes.

https://www.whatisthatbookabout.com/

December 26 @ Words by Webb

Visit Jodi’s blog for her review of What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes.

https://www.jodiwebbwriter.com/blog

December 28 @ StoreyBook Reviews

Stop by Leslie’s blog for a guest post by Caitlin Forbes on why she included dogs in her book What Comes Next.

https://storeybookreviews.com/

January 2 @ Nicole Writes About Stuff

Stop by Nicole’s Substack for a feature of What Comes Next in her weekly newsletter.

https://nicolepyles.substack.com

January 3 @ Seaside Book Nook

Visit Jilleen’s blog for her review of What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes.

http://www.seasidebooknook.com/

January 4 @ Author Anthony Avina’s blog

Stop by Anthony’s blog for his review of What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes.

https://authoranthonyavina.com/category/blog-tours/

January 8 @ Writer Advice

Visit B. Lynn Goodwin’s blog for her review of What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes.

https://writeradvice.com/

January 9 @ Writer Advice

Stop by B. Lynn Goodwin’s blog for a guest post by author Caitlin Forbes about the question of inheritance – of what we inherit versus what we get to choose.

https://writeradvice.com/

January 10 @ Just Katherine

Stop by Katherine’s blog for her review of What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes. You’ll also have a chance to read her response to our tour-themed prompt about whether if she had an incurable condition and if she would want to find out.

https://justkatherineblog.wordpress.com/

Interview with Author Cory V. McCray 

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

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


I’m a proud son of Baltimore, an electrician by trade, and now serve in the Maryland State Senate representing the 45th District. My journey started with an apprenticeship — it gave me not just a career, but a path to stability, leadership, and service. Writing wasn’t my first language; I was used to working with my hands. But over time, through op-eds, speeches, and listening to the stories in my community, I realized writing was another way to build — not with wire or tools, but with words that could help shape futures.

Advertisements

2) What inspired you to write your book?


The book grew out of a simple truth: apprenticeships saved my life. I wanted to create a guidebook that would demystify the process for parents, students, and mentors — to show them that the trades aren’t a fallback, they’re a way forward. I’ve seen too many young people miss opportunities because they didn’t have access or exposure. This book is my way of pulling back the curtain and saying, “Here’s how you can get there.”

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


That second chances are real, and pathways to the middle class come in many forms. Apprenticeships are the other four-year degree. I want readers — whether they’re young people figuring out their path, parents trying to guide their kids, or counselors advising students — to walk away knowing that opportunity is closer than they think, and that hard work plus access can change everything.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?


Memoir with a “how-to” spine felt like the right fit. I wanted to tell my story honestly — the good and the challenges — but also leave readers with practical steps they can act on. It’s not just about my journey, it’s about creating a blueprint others can use.

Advertisements

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


Instagram has been powerful — it allows me to share visual moments, connect with young people, and engage directly with readers who may not follow traditional political spaces. But I also lean on LinkedIn, because so much of this conversation is about workforce development, policy, and leadership, and that’s where those communities live.

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


Stay true to your voice. Writing can feel intimidating, especially if it’s not your first craft, but authenticity is what resonates. Be disciplined about putting words down — even if it’s just a page at a time — and surround yourself with people who will push you to finish. Most importantly, write the book you wish you had in your hands years ago.

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


Right now, I’m focused on bringing The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life into as many classrooms, libraries, and communities as possible. But I also see this book as just the beginning of a larger conversation.

On a personal level, I’ve got a 10- and 11-year-old in the house — both boys — and time is flying. Writing this book gave me space to reflect on the disciplines and lessons I’ve learned through life, and I want to make sure I pass them on early so they don’t fall into the same traps I did. With my wife, our focus is on raising our four children to be good human beings — the kind who contribute to making this world a better place.

So while I’m already thinking about ways to expand on this project — companion guides, lifting up more apprenticeship stories, and maybe another book down the road — my deepest priority is what’s happening inside my own home, and making sure my kids grow up with the tools, values, and exposure they need to thrive.

Advertisements

About the Author

Cory V. McCray is a husband and father of four from Baltimore who believes deeply in second chances and creating pathways to opportunity. An electrician by trade, he now serves as a Maryland State Senator, representing Baltimore’s 45th Legislative District. Cory is the author of The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life, a guidebook and memoir that shows how apprenticeships are “the other four-year degree.”

Links:

Savvy Sam’s Search for Self by Jamie Barrett 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 Jamie Barrett shares a relatable story of identity in the children’s book “Savvy Sam’s Search for Self.” 

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Savvy Sam’s Search for Self is an educational story written in poetry form that provides information on how the mind works and who you are, your identity. Sam is the character in this saga and Sam was chosen so Sam could be identified as a boy or girl. This helps boys and girls alike to be able to relate to Sam and the dilemma of who you are. Concepts are espoused that thoughts are not real and can be changed. Negative thoughts and negative emotions are not who you are and can be worked through and released. More empowering thoughts can be substituted for thoughts that are not serving you.

The Review

This was an incredibly insightful and heartfelt children’s book, guiding readers through an emotional process of how children process information and how that information informs their identities. The bright, colorful illustrations are a great way to capture the young reader’s attention and to slowly introduce these concepts as the story progresses, which is highly innovative when paired with a relatable protagonist like Sam and guiding characters like the Sassafrass Tree. 

The driving force of the story, of course, is the educational value of the story’s themes, as well as the author’s unique writing style. The poetry that was infused into the writing style made the journey feel very lyrical and emotive. At the same time, the themes of identity were explored extensively at both the emotional and psychological levels, helping young readers distinguish between negative and positive thoughts and feelings and understand that these don’t define their identity.

Advertisements

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author Jamie Barrett’s “Savvy Sam’s Search for Self” is a must-read children’s book. The relatable, emotional story and journey Sam goes on, and the words of affirmation and encouragement that accompany it, will empower young readers and entertain them at the same time, making this a wonderful children’s story to get into. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

https://amzn.to/4paMWGs