Tag: history

Interview with Author Les Jauron 

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

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

After retiring for the second time, I needed something to keep my mind active. Much of my experience in the Army and as a higher education administrator involved writing. So, I decided to try my hand at being an author.  I enjoy it because it is truly a craft putting words together to tell a story. Even better, with fiction, you get to develop the story, the characters, and the flow of the narrative.

Advertisements

2) What inspired you to write your book?

In my writing I try to do several things. These are to challenge preconceived notions, to make people think, and to inspire positive change. Wallia’s Quest resulted from my fascination with late antiquity. The world we live in today was shaped by the events that happened in this very important time. These include the Chriistianization of the Roman Empire. This allowed Rome to live even after the Western Roman Empire died.  All you have to do to see this is to go to a Catholic mass. The entire ritual from the vestments to the acclamations, to the blessing at the end haven’t changed for almost two thousand years. I find this continuity comforting. The other thing that happened during late antiquity was the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the rise of the “barbarian” successor states—which evolved into the countries of Western Europe. The forty-year Goth migration set the stage for this. It was the first time that an entire people was settled, armed and under its own leadership, within the boundaries of the Roman Empire. All of the subsequent barbarian invasions were attempting to replicate what the Goths accomplished. Even the Vandals, who eventually occupied Africa, were following the Goths’ example by doing what they tried twice to do without success. 

After I determined the time period I wanted to write about, I had to find a protagonist. I settled on Wallia. Of course, the most famous of the Goths was Alaric. He was famous because he sacked Rome. However, as I read the history of this period, I realized that the sack of Rome represented a major failure for the Goths. They didn’t want to sack Roma. All they wanted was to renegotiate their arrangement with the Romans to prevent a repeat of the Battle of the Frigidus where they lost 10,000 men fighting for the Romans in a war that didn’t mean anything to them. The Goth leader who finally succeeded where Alaric failed was Wallia. He established a viable state that outlasted the Western Roman Empire by several centuries. And we know nothing about Wallia until he became king several years before he died. This allowed me to write a compelling backstory that, I hope, brings this vibrant period to life from both the Roman and “barbarian” perspectives. 

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

There are several. The first is that history made by real people dealing with real issues. If the leaders are good, they are pragmatic, flexible, introspective, and willing to what is necessary to meet their goals. We often glorify the generals who win the bloodiest battles, and the politicians who create chaos but don’t create anything that lasts. The story of Wallia is one of understanding, creating alliances, creativity, and working with partners to create solutions that work. Interestingly, although we know nothing about Wallia, he was able to create a workable solution that had evaded his people for almost half a century. He had to partner with the Romans to do this. And he needed to understand the Romans to effectively partner with them. In the end, he had to be willing to accept a solution that didn’t give his people evertything they wanted, but gave them what they needed to survive and thrive.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I’m fascinated by history but I don’t like academic rigor, nor do I like to be limited by what ancient writers wrote or what the archeological record shows us. Historical fiction is a good way to break free of these restraints and to tell a story that is possible, compelling, and brings the past to life. As I do this, I attempt to adhere very closely to what ancient writers and the archeological record give us. The only times I deviate is when I think it is very likely that events unfolded differently than an ancient writer reports. My historical fiction is different than most. I like to say that I write Historical fiction with a capital “H.” Most historical fiction authors tell compelling stories about relatively unknown people that are set in an interesting historical milieus. My fiction is about the main characters in the historical period I’m writing about. So, in Wallia’s Quest I’m creating a narrative about the emperors, kings, generals, bishops and warriors who shaped this very important period. Although this is somewhat constraining, this approach alllows me to provide a human face to what would otherwise be a confusing jumble of disconnected dates, events, and names. I wanted to tell the story of the people that made this history—to describe their motivations, and to demonstrate that while circumstances are ever-changing, human beings tend to react to their circumstances in predictable ways based on the context in which they lived. 

kickstarter

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

The easy answer is Wallia. After spending several years creating his fictional backstory, I’d like to know how close I actually came to the mark. However, the interview I’d want would be a joint discussion with Constantius III and Galla Placidia. This would have been interesting for several reasons. First, although they eventually married, Galla Placidia obviously detested her husband. However, that man, Constantius III, was the most successful Roman leader of his age. He did much to restore the Western Roman Empire. His early death represented one of the greatest “what ifs” in history. I’d want to know what Placidia found detestable about a man who was successful, very capable, and, by all existing accounts, was good-looking and had a good sense of humor. 

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

I like to write but I hate to market. I’ve done some Facebook advertising and a few YouTube videos and a little Instagram and TicTock. I’m not sure that I really can say that I have much of a “readership.” That said, I do enjoy talking to people who read my books and take their feedback to heart. 

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

Write because you enjoy it, not because you want to make a living doing it. I’m fortunate enough to be twice retired, so I’m not writing to make a living. I’m writing because I it gives my life some meaning. 

That said, writing is like any other craft. It requires developing skill, constant practice, networking, gaining feedback, and improving as a result.

And, if you want to make a living by writing, get lucky or be willing to spend much of your life marketing.  

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

More of the same. After the Wallia’s Quest series is finished, I may write another book about late antiquity detailing the life of a usurper named Constantine III. If I don’t do that, I’d like to write a fictional book about the world that our technology moguls want to create. I think this could be fascinating.  

Advertisements

About the Author

Les Jauron is a West Point graduate, a retired Army officer, and a retired college administrator. He has two graduate degrees – a Master’s in Military Arts and Sciences from the School for Advanced Military Studies, and a Master’s in Business Administration from Oklahoma City University.

Les has always been fascinated by history, organizational leadership, politics, military affairs, and rocks. He’s always been fascinated by the ancient world and, particularly, late antiquity.  The reason for this fascination is because that world did much to shape our world today.  During that time, the Roman Empire dealt with many of the same issues we are experiencing in our modern world — immigration, great disparities of wealth, the interplay between Christianity and government, and a toxic political environment that causes politicians to leverage fear of “the other” to gain and maintain power.  

Les and his wife, Zoela, lived in their motor home for four years after Les retired for the second time and traveled extensively through the western United States. After ending their RV odyssey, Les and Zoela settled for a few years in Clarkdale, Arizona before moving to Chico California to be closer to their three children and nine grandchildren.

During their wanderings, Les grew to love red rocks and exploring slot canyons, hoo-doos, arches and natural bridges, and ancient petroglyphs and pictographs. After settling in Arizona, he began collecting rocks of every sort — which are now strewn throughout the house and the backyard. Recently, Les and Zoela moved to Chico, California to be nearer to their three children and nine grandchildren. 

But writing is Les’ greatest passion. He uses fiction as his medium to entertain, to educate, provoke thought, challenge assumptions, and inspire change.

Website:  https://lesjauronauthor.com

Facebook:  Les Jauron Author

Wallia’s Quest Book 2: In Roman Service by Les Jauron 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 Goth warrior’s quest to give his people freedom continues as his service to Rome begins in author Les Jauron’s “Wallia’s Quest Book 2: In Roman Service.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

“My name is Wallia, and I am a Goth.” With these words Wallia continues his epic forty-year quest for freedom from Rome and a permanent home for his people. The second book of the series begins after Wallia is betrayed by his nemesis, Eriulf, and is forced to flee for his life from the Goths.

Given refuge by the Romans, Wallia meets Emperor Theodosius and agrees to support the emperor’s plan—to give his people a homeland within the empire in exchange for providing soldiers to serve Rome. Wallia then joins the Scholae Palatinae, the elite cavalry squadron that protects the emperor.

In his position near the center of power, Wallia quickly learns the intricacies of court life and becomes a valued advisor to the emperor. After a short sojourn to Gaul, where he unsuccessfully attempts to save the Western Roman emperor from himself, Wallia returns to Constantinople. Eventually, as a reward for his outstanding service, Wallia is given a Roman estate and marries a Roman woman. She gives Wallia a son and the proud parents decide to raise their child as a Roman.

Then fate intervenes. Wallia is called back into Roman service to help the emperor to defeat a massive barbarian invasion and several Roman usurpers. Through endless marching, intense fighting, constant conflict, shifting loyalties, and incessant intrigues, Wallia learns some hard truths. Things are not always what they seem. Bad decisions lead to immeasurable suffering. The Goths and Romans have different interests. Unity requires leaders to subordinate their goals to those of the tribe. And, most importantly, the emperor does not see the Goths as partners in a shared enterprise—but as a weapon to be used against his enemies.

These hard truths force Wallia to make hard choices. Can he trust his people, even after being betrayed by his enemies in the tribe? Does his loyalty to his own people outweigh his oath to Rome? Or, should he remain faithful to an emperor who is willing to fight to the last Goth to maintain his power?

In the end, Wallia must decide if his future is with Rome—or the Goths.

The Review

This sequel is a fantastic narrative that pushes the envelope and continues to capture the Roman Empire’s powerful history. The level of world-building and historical context the author pours into this sequel is astounding, allowing readers to get a glimpse into the events of the first book while diving straight into the action and politics that demanded so much of Wallia’s time in this novel. The powerful imagery in the author’s writing style captured the wildness of Wallia and his group’s travels, the glory of Rome’s spectacle and setting, and the gritty intrigue of the power struggles these leaders played out amongst themselves. 

The character dynamics and powerful themes played a significant role in this story. The protagonist himself undergoes substantial growth and comes to haunting realizations about those he both admires and distrusts, discovering that things are often not what they seem. The mystery and suspense of whose allegiance he will ultimately favor become a driving point in this narrative, and the struggle for faith, equality, and even love becomes a driving force in his role in the growing relationship between Rome’s ruling elite and his people, the Goths. The morality of his role in his people’s path was also deeply explored, showing the character’s remorse for having been misled into persecuting a family for no reason, or, in this book, for infiltrating rival groups of Rome and making questionable decisions to secure the mission he was given.

AudiobooksNow

The Verdict

A complex, enthralling, and memorable historical fiction novel, author Les Jauron’s “Wallia’s Quest Book 2: In Roman Service” is a must-read novel. The attention to detail regarding the history and historical figures themselves, the balance of action and intrigue, and the thought-provoking depth of character development that added to the intrigue of political backstabbing and power struggles in the Roman Empire and beyond made this such a fantastic sequel to get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Les Jauron is a West Point graduate, a retired Army officer, and a retired college administrator. He has two graduate degrees – a Master’s in Military Arts and Sciences from the School for Advanced Military Studies, and a Master’s in Business Administration from Oklahoma City University.

Les has always been fascinated by history, organizational leadership, politics, military affairs, and rocks. He’s always been fascinated by the ancient world and, particularly, late antiquity.  The reason for this fascination is because that world did much to shape our world today.  During that time, the Roman Empire dealt with many of the same issues we are experiencing in our modern world — immigration, great disparities of wealth, the interplay between Christianity and government, and a toxic political environment that causes politicians to leverage fear of “the other” to gain and maintain power.  

Les and his wife, Zoela, lived in their motor home for four years after Les retired for the second time and traveled extensively through the western United States. After ending their RV odyssey, Les and Zoela settled for a few years in Clarkdale, Arizona before moving to Chico California to be closer to their three children and nine grandchildren.

During their wanderings, Les grew to love red rocks and exploring slot canyons, hoo-doos, arches and natural bridges, and ancient petroglyphs and pictographs. After settling in Arizona, he began collecting rocks of every sort — which are now strewn throughout the house and the backyard. Recently, Les and Zoela moved to Chico, California to be nearer to their three children and nine grandchildren. 

But writing is Les’ greatest passion. He uses fiction as his medium to entertain, to educate, provoke thought, challenge assumptions, and inspire change.

Home

https://amzn.to/3WFGpYC

Wallia’s Quest Book 1: Beyond the Donaws by Les Jauron 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 Goth warrior must fight to secure freedom for his people in author Les Jauron’s “Wallia’s Quest Book 1: Beyond the Donaws.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

“My name is Wallia, and I am a Goth.” With these words, Wallia begins the story of his forty-year quest for freedom from Roma and a homeland for his people. In this first book of the series, Wallia is a determined teenager eager to make his mark as the son of Athanaric, the pagan leader of the Goths.

When the Romans attack his people, Wallia goes to war with his father and distinguishes himself by his bravery. But then, in defiance of his father, Wallia becomes a Christian. Disowned by Athanaric, Wallia flees to his father’s rival, a Christian named Fritigern. As Wallia grows from a boy into a man, he quickly becomes one of Fritigern’s most trusted retainers and is at his patron’s side during the Goths’ unsuccessful war against the savage Huns.

After the Goths are driven from their homes by the Huns, Fritigern is forced to ask the Romans for sanctuary. Although Fritigern and his people are initially accepted by the Romans, the Goths are mistreated by corrupt Roman officials and forced into rebellion. In the war that follows, Wallia again distinguishes himself by his military skill, judgement, and bravery.

Although Fritigern now treats Wallia like a son, Fritigern’s actual son, Eriulf, sees Wallia as a threat and does everything he can to eliminate his rival. The story then devolves into a shifting web of alliances, intrigues, battles, and tragedies as Wallia does his best to support Fritigern but is undermined by Eriulf at every turn. Eventually, rejected by his patron, Wallia must make a series of difficult choices to maintain his honor and help his people to gain the freedom and permanent home they so desperately need.

The Review

This was such a rich and compelling historical fiction read. The author did an incredible job of offering detailed and fascinating insight into an era of Roman history that highlighted the struggles tribes and other cultures, such as the Goths, faced as they assimilated into the Roman Empire. The author’s powerful imagery transported readers to the period, and the level of detail made the narrative feel authentic and engaging at once.

The character development and rich history were the two cornerstones of this book. The protagonist was complex, sparing no details, as the first-person perspective gave the story an almost introspective, thoughtful tone. The complicated family drama of Wallia’s upbringing, as well as the complex political and military allegiances and betrayals he had to navigate as he rose through the ranks of his people and the Roman Empire, all spoke to the character’s sense of honor and duty. The historical detail that explored this time period was astounding, and the balance between history and fictional narrative was perfect in this story.

AudiobooksNow

The Verdict

Visceral, compelling, and engaging, author Les Jauron’s “Wallia’s Quest Book 1: Beyond the Donaws” is a must-read historical fiction novel. The twists and turns in Wallia’s personal story, the dynamic historical setting that came alive on the page with intrigue, the conflicted nature of Wallia as a character, and the harrowing ending will give readers a reason to eagerly return for the next entry in this fantastic series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Les Jauron is a West Point graduate, a retired Army officer, and a retired college administrator. He has two graduate degrees – a Master’s in Military Arts and Sciences from the School for Advanced Military Studies, and a Master’s in Business Administration from Oklahoma City University.

Les has always been fascinated by history, organizational leadership, politics, military affairs, and rocks. He’s always been fascinated by the ancient world and, particularly, late antiquity.  The reason for this fascination is because that world did much to shape our world today.  During that time, the Roman Empire dealt with many of the same issues we are experiencing in our modern world — immigration, great disparities of wealth, the interplay between Christianity and government, and a toxic political environment that causes politicians to leverage fear of “the other” to gain and maintain power.  

Les and his wife, Zoela, lived in their motor home for four years after Les retired for the second time and traveled extensively through the western United States. After ending their RV odyssey, Les and Zoela settled for a few years in Clarkdale, Arizona before moving to Chico California to be closer to their three children and nine grandchildren.

During their wanderings, Les grew to love red rocks and exploring slot canyons, hoo-doos, arches and natural bridges, and ancient petroglyphs and pictographs. After settling in Arizona, he began collecting rocks of every sort — which are now strewn throughout the house and the backyard. Recently, Les and Zoela moved to Chico, California to be nearer to their three children and nine grandchildren. 

But writing is Les’ greatest passion. He uses fiction as his medium to entertain, to educate, provoke thought, challenge assumptions, and inspire change.

Home

https://amzn.to/47ckqxn

Don’t Flush! By Dakarai Larriett 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 Dakarai Larriet showcases the struggle and activism his false arrest brought to life in the book “Don’t Flush.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

What would you do if you were arrested for a crime you didn’t commit—despite passing every test and proving your innocence?

In Don’t Flush!, activist and Senate candidate Dakarai Larriett recounts the harrowing night in April 2024 when he was wrongfully arrested in Michigan for suspected DUI. Despite testing negative and showing no signs of impairment, he was jailed, humiliated, and thrust into the unforgiving machinery of systemic injustice.

This gripping memoir not only exposes the cracks in our legal and policing systems but also shows the power of one voice refusing to stay silent. Larriett’s $10 million lawsuit against the Michigan State Police, his media campaign fueled by FOIA-released footage, and his push for legislative reform—including a Motorist Bill of Rights and the end of qualified immunity—paint a picture of a man turning trauma into action.

Don’t Flush! is more than a personal story—it’s a rallying cry. Whether you’re an ally, advocate, or just waking up to these injustices, this book demands you do more. Read it. Share it. Join the movement for true accountability.

The Review

This was such a compelling and thought-provoking read. The author expertly weaves a balance of personal storytelling and inspirational and motivational discussion, engaging readers to deliver a powerful look at social justice and the overhaul that the criminal justice system needs in the United States, as well as the many fears and hardships those who struggle with discrimination must face every day. 

The author’s writing was the most powerful aspect of this book. The tension, and almost atmospheric way the author delved into those tense moments of his false arrest, from the hyper awareness of his surroundings as he drove before he spotted the police, to the calm manner he forced himself to stay in when engaging the police, and how these moments connected to the similar struggles of discrimination his grandparents and so many others had made these events feel more elevated and essential, and yet the harsh realities that this book brings to light also serves a hopeful tone, as the author showcases how finding the light in that darkness proved that a path of change does exist, if people are willing to fight for it.

Grafton Mini Pen

The Verdict

Engaging, thoughtfully written, and memorable, author Dakarai Larriett’s “Don’t Flush” is a must-read nonfiction memoir that also serves as a valuable resource for social and criminal justice reform. The expertise with which the author crafts this book, slipping from the defining moments of his childhood and his struggles both as a Black man and a Gay man, to the horrors so many face when confronted by false arrests such as this, and the inspiring direction the author takes when making a bid for the US Senate will have readers enthralled with the author’s story and eager to fight for the changes this country sorely needs. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Dakarai Larriett, a proud Alabama native and son of a U.S. Army veteran and public school teacher, is a successful entrepreneur and dedicated community volunteer whose run for the U.S. Senate is motivated by a false arrest in 2024 for which he has yet to receive justice. His upbringing, shaped by his father’s military service, saw him move across various states and even to Germany. After excelling as an honors student and earning a full scholarship to the University of Alabama, Dakarai’s passion for public service grew during his junior year as an exchange student at Howard University. He built a successful career as a corporate leader while managing a pet-care business he started in his garage, ultimately returning to Birmingham in 2021 where he became known for his servant leadership. Engaged in various volunteer activities, he also leads a board representing local families and businesses, expressing his love for Alabama’s culture and community. In his free time, Dakarai enjoys the shooting range and attends First United Methodist Church regularly.

Website: dakarailarriett.com

Contribution Link: Click here to donate

https://amzn.to/475jw6Q

Subscribe

Enter your email below to receive updates.

Synergy and Sparks: Unlock Excellence Through Communication, Collaboration and Influence by G. Riley Mills 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 G. Riley Mills shares the experience and skills needed to empower readers and leaders alike with the means of growing their business and life as a whole through effective communication strategies in the book “Synergy and Sparks.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Become a Standout Leader with Intentional Strategies Tailored to Your Role and Industry

Synergy and Sparks: Unlock Excellence through Communication, Collaboration, and Influence is more than just a business book—it’s a definitive, practical guide for thriving as a leader in an ever-evolving world. Written by the Emmy Award–winning co-founder of Pinnacle Performance Company—one of the world’s leading communication skills training firms—this book unveils the proven, award-winning methodology behind Pinnacle’s global success.

Blending the art and science of communication, Synergy and Sparks equips leaders with the tools and insights that Fortune 500 companies have relied on for decades. It offers a hands-on roadmap filled with current research, real-world examples, engaging stories, and actionable exercises—empowering readers to lead with clarity, influence, and intention.

Each chapter is designed to spark growth, foster collaboration, and help you apply these transformative strategies directly to your own leadership journey. Throughout the book, readers will learn:

  • The six most important aspects of modern leadership: communication, presence, influence, storytelling, connection, and collaboration
  • The skills needed to communicate a clear vision, drive productivity, and retain top talent
  • Time-tested performance techniques that professional actors have utilized for centuries to project confidence, influence emotion, and motivate action in their audiences

Synergy and Sparks is the perfect resource to help frustrated leaders achieve their full potential and motivate their teams to action.

The Review

The author’s insights and knowledge were on point in this book. The author’s ability to communicate and educate readers on the effectiveness of communication through historical, pop culture, and business-related examples was both inspiring and relatable, and the conversational tone of the book’s writing style effectively emphasized the power of communication.

Social awareness, balancing stress and performance, and even using storytelling devices in communication techniques are just a few of the compelling ideas that the author brings to life in this book. The way the author explores a post-COVID world and how it has changed the business landscape was amazing. One of the unique concepts the author brought to the conversation of modern business communication is the idea of “Yes, and”, which challenges leaders to embrace change and find ways of growing and building upon that change as a result. 

AudiobooksNow

The Verdict

Insightful, compelling, and engaging, author G. Riley Mills’s “Synergy and Sparks” is a must-read nonfiction book on business and communication. The author’s education and experience, combined with a personable and straightforward writing style, will keep readers coming back to this book time and again to seek knowledge about business communication. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

G. Riley Mills is a three-time Emmy Award-winning producer, writer and entrepreneur. He is the author of Synergy and Sparks and the co-author of The Pin Drop Principle and its follow-up The Bullseye Principle (all published by John Wiley & Sons). He was included in the list of “Top Leadership Speakers” by Inc. Magazine and has taught effective communication to executives and CEOs on six continents. He presented his TEDx session “Are We Killing Communication?” at the Shanghai American School, Shanghai, China and consulted on the MSNBC program “All In America: Chicago” which won a 2018 Emmy for Outstanding News Discussion and Analysis.

Mills has guest-lectured or delivered keynotes at such events and institutions as Columbia University, London Business School, ATD International Conference, London Chamber of Commerce, SHRM International Conference, New York University, Utrecht University (Netherlands), Singapore Management University, MENA Conference (Saudi Arabia), Manchester United and The Royal Household at Buckingham Palace.

As a writer, Mills has written for Forbes and Fast Company. He has twice been awarded the Joseph Jefferson Citation for Best New Work, in 1998 and 2001. His acclaimed musical, The Hundred Dresses, premiered Off-Broadway at the Atlantic Theatre Company in New York City. His play, Lift Every Voice, was acquired by Dramatic Publishing Company and won the 2022 Distinguished Play Award from the American Alliance of Theatre & Education. Mills is a proud member of the Screen Actors Guild as well as the Forbes Coaches Council. He produced the award-winning film Bed which premiered at the 2021 Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal. He co-wrote and co-produced The Lost Story of Emmett Till: Trial in the Delta for NBC and Collaboraction Theatre (streaming on Peacock) which won a 2022 Emmy Award (Chicago/Midwest) and was a finalist for the 2023 Silver Gavel Award from the American Bar Association. Mills also won a 2024 Emmy Award (Chicago/Midwest) for The Lost Story of Emmett Till: Then and Now, which was produced by NBC and won Outstanding Regional Documentary.

pinper.com

grileymills.com

https://amzn.to/4gvE0c9

Black Legend: An Empire Burns by Rickard B. DeMille 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 man torn between two worlds must navigate faith versus cultural survival in author Rickard B. DeMille’s “Black Legend: An Empire Burns.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

One man. Two faiths. A culture on the brink of annihilation.

Yucatán, 1562. When Diego, a Mayan turned Catholic priest, returns to his homeland with his mentor, zealous Franciscan friar Brother deLanda, he is torn between the two worlds that made him. Trained to see his native traditions as heresy, Diego struggles with his past while serving the very Church that suddenly seeks to erase it.

Rumors of human sacrifice surface in the town of Mani, and deLanda launches a merciless campaign to purge the region of “paganism.” Arrests mount. Ancient books and sacred relics are gathered. Diego’s own brother and wife are imprisoned, labeled rebels.

In a single night, the spiritual and intellectual legacy of the Ancient Mayan Empire is burned to ash.

As deLanda’s crusade spirals into tyranny, Diego must choose: uphold the Church that gave him purpose, or defy it to rescue those he loves and preserve a civilization being burned out of history.

Black Legend is a powerful historical novel of faith, betrayal, and the cost of cultural survival. Perfect for fans of The Name of the Rose, Silence, and The Power of the Dog.

The Review

This was a tense and compelling read. The author did an incredible job of capturing the tension and the heavy atmosphere of the cultural clashes that came with the conflicts between the Mayan and the Church, while also bringing the rich setting of the Yucatan and both the mysterious jungles and developing Catholic cities to life in vivid detail using powerful imagery in the writing style. The dialogue between the characters really underscores that tension, and highlights the challenges that arose, and the attention to detail the author gave to the history of the era was perfectly captured.

The driving force of this narrative was in the duality of the protagonist, Diego, and the spiritual conflict that arose not only in him but in his people as well. The horrible realities of the erasure of Mayan culture and the violence it sparked were artfully depicted here. The often difficult journey between the faith one is born into and the faith one is brought into was felt in every agonizing obstacle and choice Diego had to make along the way. His connection to his family and friends in the Mayan people and his admiration for the Church leaders who converted him sparked both intrigue and heartache in the divide between these two peoples, and made for a thought-provoking discussion.

AudiobooksNow

The Verdict

Compelling, engaging, and thoughtful in delivery, author Rickard B. DeMille’s “Black Legend: An Empire Burns” is a must-read historical fiction novel. The twists and turns and the chilling atmosphere that hangs between these characters and the dynamic character arcs and history that are brought to life make this a thrilling historical fiction read that shines a light on a vastly underappreciated moment in history that needs to be recognized. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Rick DeMille was born in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he lived until attending Brigham Young University. After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish, he became a commissioned officer in the Marine Corps, and spent three years on active duty and three years in the active Reserves.

Then, one day, he wrote a Y2K guide and everything changed. A life-long interest in writing was revived, and that interest became a passion.

Rick wrote everything. Beginning with several short stories, which were published online by websites such as BeWrite.com, won several contests and were eventually placed in an anthology from Magellan Books. From there, he tried his hand at flash fiction and also wrote several screenplays.

His plays placed in the 2005 SouthWest Writer’s competition and in 2010 he placed in the Writers’ Digest screenplay contest, but his passion was still for novelized fiction.

In 2010, he began work on his first novel, HELLFIRE, which, since being released, has been a Top Ten Best Seller in Canada, Australia, Brazil, Germany, and France.

Rick DeMille continues to grow and develop his writing talents and looks forward to all the new projects the future has in store.

Home

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

Advertisements

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

Advertisements

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.

Elijah Goes to Philadelphia by Mark Darden (Illustrations by Anh Bui) 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 on the eve of a trip to Philadelphia takes a journey into the city’s past in author Mark Darden’s “Elijah Goes to Philadelphia.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

While resting in his bed, Elijah is not looking forward to visiting Philadelphia with his father as he has heard bad things about the city. His father reassures him that they will have a great time visiting the city and tells Elijah to get some sleep. When Elijah wakes up, he finds himself somewhere he’d never seen before with his dad. After nervously calculating their surroundings, Elijah and his dad meet Vinnie who tells them that they were just in time to witness an historic event. With the help of Vinnie, Elijah and his dad visit various landmarks in Philadelphia during different time periods, such as Independence Hall in 1776, Reading Terminal Market in 1893, and much more. Elijah’s trip to Philadelphia is an exciting and unforgettable adventure, almost as if it were a dream.

The Review

This was such a fun and engaging children’s book. The author did an excellent job of bringing a sense of magic and wonder to the story, while also highlighting the history and culture behind the foundation and growth of Philadelphia as a city and as a landmark in the foundation of the United States of America. The fast-paced and easy-going nature of the story allowed the reader to feel transported by this dreamy, historical trip down the city’s past.

What stood out for young readers is both the relatability of the main characters and the importance of understanding and connecting with the city as a whole. The dynamic between father and son in this story was great to see come to life, and how Philadelphia, both the good and the bad, were showcased reminded me of my life in Southern California, and the times Los Angeles would be called bad or remarked with a sense of dread. Yes, each city has its bad parts, but every town or city does. There are also things of great beauty, community, and historical significance that deserve to be celebrated, and this story brought that to life for Philadelphia so perfectly.

The Verdict

Heartfelt, fun, and adventurous, author Mark Darden’s “Elijah Goes to Philadelphia” is a must-read children’s book. The nostalgic, almost 90s-esque art style of the illustrations and the magical yet relatable story and character dynamics will keep both children and parents alike invested in this incredible story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Mark Darden is the founder, author-publisher, and Chief Content Creator for Buckeye Muscle Media, LLC. Since 2019, Buckeye Muscle Media has independently published two books with a third book set to be released in November 2024. Mark is a member of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). He when is not writing books, Mark enjoys going to sports events cheering for his favorite teams, traveling across the country and world, and participating in various fitness competitions.

https://buckeyemuscle.com/

Reviving Our Republic: 95 Theses for the Future of America by Mike Bedenbaugh 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 Mike Bedenbaugh lays the groundwork for political reform in the United States in the book “Reviving Our Republic: 95 Theses for the Future of America.”

The Synopsis

From Founding Principles to Future Promise: 95 Theses to Reinvigorate America for the 21st Century

The United States is in a partisan gridlock. As our constitutional principles erode away and the decline of civic engagement threatens the foundation of American democracy, navy veteran turned preservation leader Michael Bedenbaugh presents a compelling vision for the future of our country.

Reviving Our Republic: 95 Theses for the Future of America is a bold blueprint for addressing the most pressing challenges facing our nation today. Drawing inspiration from Martin Luther’s historic call for reform, Bedenbaugh offers a dynamic framework for political reform, reinterpreting founding principles for modern 21st-century challenges. Grounded in lessons across history from the warnings in Washington’s Farewell Address to the Citizens United decision of 2010 that enabled influence of corporations on policy, Reviving Our Republic is a fresh, nonpartisan approach to restructuring American governance, with 40 actionable proposals aimed at fostering a more responsive, accountable government.

In this blend of practical experience and scholarly insight, readers will learn:

  • Proposals to reform the electoral system, including instituting term limits and Electoral College reform.
  • Strategies to curb corporate influence in politics and strengthen individual liberty.
  • A plan to restore the balance between federal and state powers, reviving true federalism in our national government.
  • Methods to ensure fiscally responsible governance and address the national debt crisis.
  • Ways to realign foreign policy with America’s founding principles of neutrality in world affairs without hiding under isolationism.

Reviving Our Republic is not a critique of our political climate—it’s a call to action for engaged citizens who yearn for meaningful change. Whether you’re a concerned voter, community leader, or a student of politics, history, and economics, this book is a radical approach to reform that will inspire you to engage in America’s path forward as a united nation. 

The Review

What an insightful and engaging read. The author’s approach to this subject matter from a purely non-partisan and historical standpoint was refreshing and insightful. The focus on the divisiveness and struggles that come with partisan politics and how it negatively impacts the stability of a democracy was incredible, presenting seemingly inspiring yet straightforward and evolved concepts that could better benefit society. The use of historical context in understanding how partisan politics failed various societies over time was terrific, playing into the idea that those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.

The juxtaposition of the flaws in our Founding father and their ability to recognize that in the formation of the nation versus the weaknesses in the current political climate and their inability to see past their vitriol was well presented throughout this book. What resonated was the idea of the Founding Fathers recognizing the natural evolution of a society and deeming it necessary to leave room for the Constitution to be amended or changed, which is often overlooked in our modern world. This type of logic fuels the author’s thesis and academic and philosophical approaches to this subject matter.

The Verdict

Insightful, engaging, and thoughtfully written, author Michael Bedenbaugh’s “Reviving Our Republic” is a must-read nonfiction book on politics, history, and the evolution of society as a whole. The call for honorable politics and a need to end attack-based election cycles and focus on the actual needs of the people instead was both inspiring and exemplary, and serves as a broader discussion readers can have going forward. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Michael Bedenbaugh is a respected voice in historic preservation and community development, with a keen interest in constitutional principles and American governance. Born with a reverence for history, Michael served as the former president and executive director of Preservation South Carolina, where he led numerous initiatives that demonstrated the economic and cultural value of historic preservation, showcasing his ability to blend practical solutions with respect for tradition. 

Driven by a mission to revitalize America’s founding ideals, Michael hosts the podcast Perspective with Mike Bedenbaugh, where he explores the intersection of history, politics, and community development. His unique approach combines grassroots activism with a deep understanding of constitutional intent, offering fresh insights into modern political challenges. This approach was shaped by his diverse career, including his role as CEO of Post No Bills, Inc., a product marketing firm that collaborated with corporate powerhouses like Phillip Morris USA, RCA Records, DreamWorks, Universal Pictures, and MGM.  

Michael’s diverse background includes five years of service in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS South Carolina, studies in international studies and history at the University of South Carolina and Columbia University, and leadership roles in both nonprofit and for-profit sectors. He has also served on his hometown’s city council and chaired his county Board of Zoning Appeals, demonstrating his commitment to local governance. His efforts in community revitalization and historic preservation earned him the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, awarded by Governor Henry McMaster. As a member of Preservation Action in Washington, D.C., he continues to advocate for policies that strengthen local communities and honor America’s heritage. 

A native of Prosperity, South Carolina, Michael remains deeply involved in his home state’s development while contributing to national discussions on governance and civic engagement. His work exemplifies the principle that understanding our past is crucial to shaping a better future. His book, Reviving Our Republic, is an outcome of Michael’s lifelong passion for his community, state, and nation, and was inspired by our founding fathers and the principles that birthed our nation. 

To explore Michael’s perspectives on reinvigorating American democracy through a return to founding principles, visit mikebedenbaugh.com, where he also has links to his podcast, his congressional campaign, and his biography.

New Home