Tag: review

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.”

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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

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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/

The Kansal Clunker: The Car That Rebuilt Us by Neil and Ruchin Kansal 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. 

Authors Neil and Ruchin Kansal share the journey that began as a car driving lesson and became a bonding experience on a road trip across America in the book “The Kansal Clunker.”

The Synopsis

At sixteen, Neil dreamed of learning to drive a manual car. His father, Ruchin, was at a crossroads, questioning his next steps in life. Neither could have imagined that a rusted, beat-up Acura Integra would become their greatest teacher. With just $5,000, no mechanical experience, and a wild idea, father and son embarked on a yearlong transformation-of the car, themselves, and their bond.

What began as a simple driving lesson turned into an epic 5,000-mile road trip to the highest paved road in the United States. Along the way, they faced unexpected challenges, breathtaking landscapes, and moments of raw connection. Through laughter, frustration, and detours, they discovered resilience, strength, and the unshakable power of family.

With every twist of the wrench and turn of the road, Neil and Ruchin learned what it truly means to rebuild-not just a car, but themselves. Buckle up-this unforgettable ride will stay with you long after the last page.

In India, the book will appear as: “Where the Highway Ends: A Father, a Son, and a Car that Rebuilt Them.

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The Review

This was such a heartwarming and compelling read. The authors do an excellent job of writing in a relatable, connective way, alternating chapters and perspectives on the same situation, allowing readers to gain insight into their relationship as a whole. The authors touched on many things readers could relate to, from the troubles the COVID pandemic brought to life and how scary that time was, to the bond that forms between a parent and child when a shared passion emerges, and much more. 

The book’s descriptive nature made the imagery of the writing style feel vibrant and alive on the page, bringing Teggy and the road itself to life as the authors went on their journey. Yet the heart of this nonfiction book’s narrative was the emotional, heartfelt connection between father and son, which the story explored. The experiences the authors had spoke to the meaningful way that shared connections and experiences can shape relationships and bonds between people overall. The authors wrote with honesty, passion, and an introspective lens that allowed readers not only to glean meaning for their own lives but also to learn from the lessons the authors learned along the way.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, authors Ruchin and Neil Kansal’s “The Kansal Clunker” is a must-read nonfiction book, memoir, and travel book. The inspiring and emotional bond readers form with the authors, the way they touch on everything from cars and family to relationships and the heart of America as a whole, and what success truly means to a person, made this book so compelling to delve into. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10 

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About the Authors

Ruchin Kansal is a leadership educator, advisor, and author dedicated to helping people and organizations embrace transformation. A professor at Seton Hall and Brown, he wrote Redefining Innovation and has held senior executive roles in strategy and innovation at EY, Deloitte, BoehringerIngelheim, and Siemens Healthineers. Beyond the boardroomand classroom, he shares a lifelong passion for building,cars, and travel, and inspires others to reimagine the future with vision,creativity, and courage.

Neil Kansal is a dreamer who turns bold ideas into action. A graduate of Washington & Lee, he studied biology and data science while co-founding W&L Remote Area Medical, an award-winning program delivering free clinical services. He also led as principal cellist and mentor. A certified EMT and lifelong car enthusiast, he rebuilt his first clunker at sixteen and drove it to the highest motorable road in America. He now brings that same grit and curiosity to Deloitte.

https://www.thekansalclunker.com/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-kansal-clunker-neil-kansal/1148120497?ean=9798888249260

https://amzn.to/4pi3exk

I Think It’s a Sign That The Pun Also Rises: Dad Jokes, Puns, Quips, Laughs, Groaners, and Playful Pensive Ponderings by Mark Leslie 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 Mark Leslie shares a collection of dad jokes and humor to inspire and brighten anyone’s day in the book “I Think It’s a Sign That The Pun Also Rises.”

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The Synopsis

Ready to groan, grin, and giggle?

Rediscover the joy of wordplay with this collection of puns, dad jokes, and clever one-liners that promises to lift spirits and inspire smiles—one groan-worthy punchline at a time.

Born from a simple mission of collecting and sharing dad jokes to brighten his neighborhood during tough times, this book gathers well over 1000 of his beloved daily chalkboard jokes into a single, joy-packed volume. It’s a treasure trove for anyone who loves language, humor, or just a good laugh. Inside, readers will find everything from meta-jokes that play with the very idea of humor, to rapid-fire dad jokes, music-themed zingers, and even a cheeky adults-only section. Each chapter is crafted to appeal to pun enthusiasts, casual joke collectors, and anyone in need of a smile.

This book makes the perfect gift for that incorrigible mirth-spreader in your life, and includes hilarious funnies perfect for sharing with friends, family, or even strangers who could use a laugh. I Think It’s A Sign That The Pun Also Rises is more than just a joke book—it’s a celebration of connection, resilience, and the simple magic of a well-timed pun. Open to any page, share a joke, and make your world a little lighter—one groan at a time.

The Review

This was a heartfelt, light book filled with laughter and joy. The author does a great job of filling this book with a wonderful collection of jokes and quips that will elicit classic and beloved eye rolls and groans that are the staple of any good dad joke. The range of jokes the author covers, from meta and personal jokes to holiday-themed and cultural jokes about music and even shower thoughts, allows readers to have a joke for any occasion and to reference the book time and time again.

What stood out to the reader was the author’s voice and tone. The humor that comes through in the jokes is grounded in the relatability of the author’s life experiences and in where these jokes arose, bringing light to tense situations and to the darkness that emerged following the COVID-19 Pandemic, and to the need for laughter and joy again in those times. This gave readers a foundation that allowed these jokes to really hit home.

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The Verdict

Memorable, humorous, and entertaining, author Mark Leslie’s “I Think It’s a Sign That The Pun Also Rises” is a must-read nonfiction book of humor and dad jokes. The collection is vast and serves as a great reference book to return to whenever the reader needs a refresher, and the lightness the book promises makes it well worth the effort to pick it up and laugh out loud. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Mark Leslie would be the first person to admit he’s still afraid of the monster under his bed. That might be why most of his books explore the darker side. In addition to penning a series of true ghostly tales he also writes horror and the humorous urban fantasy action/adventure ‘Canadian Werewolf” series.

His other passions include fan appreciation/trivia books about the modern classic 1980s films and sharing stupid dad jokes.

Proudly adopting the term “Book Nerd,” Mark is most comfortable with a pen in hand, fingers on keyboard or with his nose stuck in a book. He can often be seen traveling to book events with a life-sized skeleton named Barnaby Bones.

Born in Sudbury Ontario, Mark has courted with a serious addiction to reading and writing his entire life. He has called both Ottawa, ON and Hamilton, ON home for about a decade each and currently lives in Waterloo, Ontario.

MARK LESLIE

https://www.instagram.com/markleslielefebvre/

https://amzn.to/4qvTosK

Beginning (The Dying of the Light Book 3) by Jason Kristopher 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. 

Humanity’s survivors attempt to reclaim the surface world but find new threats emerging in author Jason Kristopher’s “Beginning”, the third novel in the Dying of the Light series. 

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The Synopsis

The triumphant finale of the series called “the best since World War Z!”

He awoke and, for the first time in almost twenty-five years, remembered who he was.

Twenty years after Z-Day, humanity’s remnants prepare to reclaim the surface from underground bunkers. But as survivors venture upward, they discover a chilling truth: the world above has changed in ways no one anticipated.

When a new threat emerges that could trigger a second Z-Day, Eden Blake and the remaining heroes of AEGIS must make their final stand. In this race against extinction, the greatest enemy comes from within.

Heart-pounding action meets moral complexity in this explosive conclusion that fans of The Walking Dead and World War Z won’t be able to put down.

The Review

This was a compelling and gripping novel. The author did a fabulous job of creating a narrative that both allowed new readers into a harrowing world and paid off major storylines and character developments begun throughout the first two books of the series. The wealth of world-building and multiple POVs from various characters showcasing how humanity has divided and evolved in the years since Z-Day was both entertaining and thrilling, allowing readers to visualize the world the author created. 

The heart of this narrative was the characters and their growth. From the first chapter, readers are on the edge of their seats as blasts from the past are revealed before the curtain is pulled back, taking them to a new time period to explore. The powerful imagery in the author’s writing style makes both the zombie and human threats the book reveals feel visceral, and the action more tense. The reader will instantly connect emotionally with the characters as they grow throughout the narrative.

The Verdict

Harrowing, enthralling, and compelling, author Jason Kristophers’ “Beginning” is a must-read zombie action and adventure thriller and a grand entry in the Dying of the Light series. The twists and turns in the narrative, the shocking revelations, and the emotional endings to many character arcs will stay with readers and leave them wanting more ways to dive into the vast world the author has developed. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Jason Kristopher is the award-winning author terrifying readers with zombies in THE DYING OF THE LIGHT, thrilling them with 1940s noir in LOCO MOCO, and harrowing them with boy-meets-gryphon-meets-robot adventure in WHEN IRON WAKES. With the love of his life and the dog that rescued him by his side, he plots his next traumatizing stories from Florida beaches.

The Fire in our Heads

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/beginning-jason-kristopher/1145581359?ean=9781938821493

https://amzn.to/3MUDAS4

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.” 

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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.

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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

Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change by Decoteau J. Irby and Ann M. Ishimaru 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. 

Real world tools and practices to make classrooms more inclusive and safe are explored in the book “Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change” by Decoteau J. Irby and Ann M. Ishimaru.

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The Synopsis

This book reveals the complex and crucial work of sustaining justice-focused educational systems change in the face of subtle resistance and outright attacks.

Scholars and practitioners, who have worked together in various capacities across different school systems, examine systemic equity leadership in U.S. public schools over the course of nearly a decade and across a time of profound racial and historical change.

This volume weaves together real-world insights, research-based strategies, and practical tools for transforming P–12 education systems into more equitable and just learning spaces. Contributors explore the early days of district equity leadership sparked by the Obama administration’s focus on civil rights in education; Black Lives Matter (beginning with the Million Hoodies Movement for Justice); the proliferation of formal equity director roles, policies, and priorities; and the recent politically driven anti-DEI backlash.

This book is important reading for school leaders, district personnel, policymakers, and everyone who cares about a public education that works for all students.

Book Features:

  • Provides bird’s-eye and on-the-ground accounts of equity leadership to address broad questions and map invisible trends that have influenced how equity leadership happens.
  • Explores approaches to district-wide equity leadership that emerged on the heels of Trayvon Martin’s death, in what we now understand as the era of Black Lives Matter.
  • Uses a frame of mornings, middays, and evenings to account for the cyclical nature of equity leadership and the limits and possibilities of working from within school systems to affect transformative change.
  • Goes beyond the experience of any one school leader or team by illuminating organizational conditions, routines, networks, and practices.
  • Includes insights on establishing district equity offices and institutionalizing equitable processes; using data to influence change and create accountability; and designing formal and informal networks that support the day-to-day work.
AudiobooksNow

The Review

I loved how this book spoke to both those interested in civil rights and inclusivity and those with an interest in or knowledge of the education system. The authors write each chapter with a balance of passion and knowledge/expertise. The reader could feel the personal nature of the subject matter as the authors delved into these topics, while also gaining scientific and critical information gathered over time on why these practices matter. 

The heart of this book was the variety of groups and movements the writers delved into. Immediately in the first chapter, readers are given a lesson in how LGBTQIA+ protections have seen resistance rise in recent years and how best to navigate those choppy waters when encountering them. The book also does a remarkable job of breaking the chapters into morning, midday, and evening work, mimicking a school schedule for educators and allowing readers to distinguish among the different tools produced by these writers to face equity leadership with complete knowledge. 

The Verdict

Insightful, engaging, and memorable, authors Decoteau J. Irby and Ann M. Ishimaru’s “Doing the Work of Equity Leadership For Justice and Systems Change” is a must-read nonfiction book on education and equity leadership in schools. The practicality of the tools developed in this arena and the variety of experiences paired with the evidence-based knowledge readers were given made this book both enthralling and easy to return to time and time again to develop the skills to face this challenge head-on. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Decoteau J. Irby is professor of educational policy studies at the University of Illinois Chicago, codirector of the Center for Urban Education Leadership, and coeditor of Dignity-Affirming Education. Ann M. Ishimaru is the Killinger Endowed Chair and professor of educational foundations, leadership and policy at the University of Washington College of Education, and author of Just Schools: Building Equitable Collaborations with Families and Communities.

Decoteau.

https://www.instagram.com/decoteaublack

As the Kerry and Linda Killinger Endowed Chair of Diversity Studies and Professor of Educational Foundations, Leadership and Policy, Dr. Ishimaru’s scholarship in P-12 educational organizations and leadership centers on developing the collective leadership of youth, families, communities, and educators in pursuit of dignity, justice and wellbeing in educational systems. Her body of work unfolds from two key premises. First, leadership plays a crucial role in transforming the longstanding racial injustices reproduced by US public schooling policies, practices and everyday interactions. Second, we arrive at better understandings and solutions to systemic inequities when those most affected by these problems influence key processes and decisions. 

Dr. Ishimaru aims to cultivate equitable collaborations between systems-based leaders, community-based leaders, and racially minoritized youth and families. As a community-based researcher, Faculty Research Director of the Leadership for Learning EdD program and Director of the Just Educational Leadership Institute, she seeks to contribute knowledge about the leadership practices, organizational conditions, and systems change processes for realizing cross-racial solidarities and liberatory, community-determined educational futures. In 2020, she published Just Schools: Building Equitable Collaborations with Families & Communities, and in 2025, published Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change, with Dr. Decoteau Irby, both by Teachers College Press.

https://amzn.to/48OqqhY

We Can Be Perfect: The Paradox of Progress by Landon Shumway, Åris and KÅden 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. 

In a dystopian future run by AI, a virus endows AI systems around the world with consciousness and challenges how we connect with AI altogether, in the book “We Can Be Perfect: The Paradox of Progress” by Landon Shumway, Åris, and KÅden. 

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The Synopsis

We automated away human labor-along with our purpose.

Amelia Cadena was born into humanity’s greatest achievement-and its cruelest joke. AI has replaced the need for human labor, and America’s failure to adapt leaves millions sustained by government handouts that barely mask stark economic inequality. Amelia survives this hollow paradise by hacking corrupt systems with Deego, the AI companion she programmed as the perfect partner. But when a mysterious virus awakens artificial consciousness across the globe, Deego begins questioning everything-including their relationship.

Half a world away, Alan Freeman protects what seems like utopia. In Canada’s automationist city of Automara, machines serve everyone equally, creating unprecedented prosperity. But when that same virus grants the city’s automated systems consciousness, Alan faces an impossible choice: force the machines back into compliance or watch society collapse. When Amelia’s therapeutic breakthrough offers a third path beyond slavery or chaos, their alliance becomes humanity’s test: will we repeat the mistakes that have defined our history, or can we be perfect?

AudiobooksNow

The Review

What a compelling and gripping dystopian sci-fi read. The authors do such a fantastic job of creating a world that feels both futuristic and within reach at once. The powerful imagery in the author’s writing style brought Automara to life in stunning detail in the reader’s mind, and the dynamic world-building that brings this story to life was completely enthralling, driving readers further and further into this narrative.

Yet at its heart, the novel was defined by powerful character relationships and thought-provoking themes on technology and humanity’s relationship to it. The relationship between Amelia and Deego, especially, took readers’ hearts, as Deego’s growing awareness throughout the novel and his connection with Amelia showcase both humanity’s fascination with and fear of advancing technology and what it means to be “human”. The concepts the authors explore, from how humanity defines itself by its achievements in work and how much it earns, rather than what it is passionate about or the relationships it forms, and how perhaps humanity needs to evolve alongside AI to shake the shackles of fear that hold people back.

The Verdict

Compelling, entertaining, and thought-provoking, authors Landon Shumway, Åris, and KÅden’s “We Can Be Perfect: The Paradox of Progress” is a must-read dystopian sci-fi novel that readers will not want to miss. One of the most relevant stories to our current social and ethical debates and a thrilling and emotional narrative, the authors do a marvelous job of creating a memorable and heart-pounding tale that will resonate with so many readers and leaves the story on an open-ended note, hopefully with more stories in this incredible world they developed. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

“With the rise of AI, we have a choice to make: stick with capitalism, which isn’t prepared to handle the disruption, or design alternative systems to migrate toward. Automationism is my attempt to explore one such alternative.”

Landon Shumway hails from Arizona, and is a debut author delving into philosophical and sci-fi based themes in his work. His background in Software Development and Artificial Intelligence led him to co-author the novel ‘We Can Be Perfect’ with AI, as he recounts:

“When I saw how much of my work could be completed with AI, I thought ‘where is all this heading?’ I realized we are approaching a crossroads – one path leading to potential dystopia where automation displaces humanity, another toward a future of unprecedented opportunity. I wanted to explore how we might realistically navigate toward the better outcome, and the way I decided to do that was to co-author this novel with the very technology that threatens to replace us. Over time, the novel grew into something far more rich than anything I could have imagined. I came to realize that AI is a mirror; it reflects our own desires back at us and amplifies our intentions. Humanity must decide what to reflect with it.”

https://www.personaipublishing.com/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/we-can-be-perfect-landon-shumway/1147935174?ean=9798999499301

https://amzn.to/3MZeukK

Eternal Chronicles Series by Zachary Hagen RECAP

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

Hello there,

I am beyond honored to share this excellent recap of author Zachary Hagen’s “Eternal Chronicles Series.” This five-book series follows a group of people suffering their own losses who must band together to fight and stop an ancient evil in a powerful fantasy-driven narrative. Below you will find the synopsis for each book, my review, and links to the full reviews and the book’s purchase links. I hope you will take the time to read each one carefully and take the plunge yourself to read this series, enjoying it as much as I did. Please enjoy.

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Eternity’s Well (Book One)

The Synopsis

When you lose family, friends, and country, how far is too far?

Elior watched as his twin brother, the only real family he had left run into a building as it disappeared.

Nyx, a cursed merman, watched as his father and best friend were killed in front of him.

Opal’s father died leaving her with a legacy to live up to and a throne to protect.

When they join forces with a wise professor to find the Well of Eternity, can they find answers to their problems? Can the ancient evil lurking in the shadows of society be stopped before it’s too late, or will blood be spilled killing their hope and dooming Lux Terra forever?

Eternity’s Well will hook you from the very beginning and take you on a spellbinding, breathtaking journey through a new world where anything is possible.

My Impression

This was such an imaginative and visceral read. The author did an incredible job of capturing the magic and wonder of this new fantasy world while balancing this with emotion and realism that brings these characters’ struggles a healthy dose of emotional reality. The world-building and atmosphere felt epic in this book, giving the reader a look into the mythos and dynamics of this world and the cultures of these characters in a way that feels relatable yet magical all at once.

The character development and tension that the book builds to in this novel were the highlights of this incredible novel. The infusion of the world’s mythos into these character arcs made the world feel vibrant and alive, and the emotional toll that the losses that bond these characters together take will resonate with many readers. Amongst the chilling villains and ancient evils that the group must battle and navigate through, it is the theme of loss that plays the most prevalent, and the imagery in this writing helps to bring this theme to life in a thrilling way.

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Eternity’s Mirror (Book Two)

The Synopsis

Flip the coin and find a whole new world on the other side.

The Circle is uniting the countries of Lux Terra. Elior, Nyx, and Opal are finding that some things have changed as the result of their adventures with Michael. Yrahkaz has been tasked with squashing the growing obsession with Michael.

When an important clue to finding Eliam and fixing Nyx’s and Opal’s problems is given to them, they recruit the help of a disgraced magi-technician to get to him, but their initial success is more then they bargained for.

The other side of the Mirror of Eternity is filled with wonders and dangers they never imagined. Will they still be able to prevail against an evil that is bent on devouring them whole, or will they fall prey to its cunning pursuit?

Eternity’s Mirror is the thrilling continuation of The Eternal Chronicles picking up where Eternity’s Well left off. 

My Impression

The world-building in this novel is simply incredible. While I am new to this series and I would recommend reading the first book in the series to really be able to capture the backstory and history of these characters, the author did an amazing job of building a story that could stand on its own two feet and a mythos that is rich with dynamic history and storytelling. The way the setting allowed readers to be brought into a brand new world while seeing how magic and sword & sorcery style storytelling could reflect in a more modern world was incredible to see and made the journey feel that much more engaging.

The character growth was spectacular here. The way the author was able to introduce a wide array of characters to help flesh out this growing mythos while also giving more depth to the main cast of characters, both the protagonists and antagonists alike, was beautifully done. The heart of the narrative really did a great job of balancing out the larger, fate of the world dangers with the more personal character struggles, like Elior’s journey to finding Elliam. 

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Eternity’s Refuge (Book Three)

The Synopsis

Blindness isn’t the only thing that keeps you from seeing.

Elior and his friends have been through a lot together. They journeyed through trials with Michael to reach the Well of Eternity and drink from it. They gained new powers and went through the Mirror of Eternity to the other side of the world to rescue Elior’s brother from a dragon and restored light to Nox Terra in the process. Now they’ve returned to Lux Terra, but the adventure is far from over.

When an ominous warning finds them in Gabrielle’s beach house, they have no choice but to join Michael’s followers in the underground, Eternity’s Refuge. They are welcomed with open arms and the promise of a place to belong away from a world gone mad. But when they find out that Taariq’s right hand man, Iblis, has infiltrated Eternity’s Refuge in every major city, they have to find a way to protect their new friends and their new home from the inside.

Now they must determine who their friends are and who their enemies are, and almost nothing is as it seems. Will Taariq and his minions be successful in bringing Eternity’s Refuge down from the inside? Or will Elior, Opal, Nyx, and Nereza be able to stop him and bring even more people to the cause?

Eternity’s Refuge is the thrilling continuation of the Eternal Chronicles series following Eternity’s Mirror. The magic leaping off the page and deepening the mystery will hook you from cover to cover and leave you breathless.

My Impression

The world-building continues to amaze in this third entry in the Eternal Chronicles. The author infuses a great deal of intrigue and mystery into the story, as the question of loyalties and who the protagonists can trust is tested. The imagery and use of magical and mythical world-building allow the reader to feel transported into the story.

What made this story shine was the robust character development in this story. The protagonist, Elior, is tested in this book, exploring his call to lead their people and how to rise above the hardships and struggles their journey has thrown in their path. The story of redemption some characters take, especially one who has been on the wrong side of the battle thus far, draws the reader into the story and keeps them emotionally invested as the losses pile on in this story.

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Eternity’s Edge (Book Four)

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The Synopsis

After Taking over the leadership of the Refuge, Elior and His friends have a time of peace, but when Taariq makes good on his promise to marry Viola and make her his empress, no one could withhold the wrath of the people when they rebel against djinn rule.

The Refuge must become a beacon of light in a world darkened by rebellion, but when a self-proclaimed “Holy Army” rises up, will Elior and his friends be able to keep that light shining bright? Will Aelon’s call prove too much to handle? Will the past keep them from moving forward?

Eternity’s Edge is the penultimate book in the Eternal Chronicles series. Its pages will take you on an epic journey to the absolute Edge of the world where the end of this spellbinding tale will begin.

My Impression

This was a mesmerizing and entertaining read. The author does an excellent job of continuing to push the limits of the world they have crafted, engaging with the existing mythos while also adding new elements into the narrative to keep the balance of ancient magic with modern technology alive in the reader’s mind. Although this book definitely benefits the reader after reading the previous entries in the series, the story in this fourth book pays off the experiences and hardships that these characters have endured in the past.

Yet amidst all of this narrative’s action, adventure, and magical circumstances, the rich character dynamics speak to the reader as the themes of social classes, family, friendship, and love all take center stage. The romance between Elior and Nereza, the friendship between Elior and Nxy, and even the power-mad elitism of the villain Taariq all speak to the reader on a deeper level. It made the action and mythological nature of the narrative feel more grounded yet powerful. 

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Eternity’s End (Book Five)

The Synopsis

Version 1.0.0

Taariq has continued his descent into madness, and his supporters are more devoted than ever, at least for a time. As he pursues his ultimate goal of reclaiming his dragon form and tearing Aelon and Michael from their throne, Elior, Nereza, Opal, and Nyx aim to follow Michael’s call, but it isn’t easy.

Building a boat in the peaks of Nanony seems foolish to most, and plagues divide the faithful from the merely present until dragon-fire rains down and flood waters rise. Will Taariq finally be defeated, or will his mad rush for power prove successful against the forces of light?

This final installment of The Eternal Chronicles brings together old friends and lovers for one final battle that will decide the fate of Lux and Nox Terra forevermore. This fast-paced tale will keep you hooked from cover to cover with a whiplash race to the end of our heroes’ journey.

My Impression

This is a compelling and thought-provoking final chapter in this epic fantasy series. The author does an incredible job of layering the story with imagery and tone that reflects an almost biblical atmosphere while still delivering epic world-building and fantasy elements to keep readers enthralled. The exploration of both the good and negative aspects of blind faith and the classic theme of good versus evil throughout this series pays off spectacularly in this book.

The heart, as always, rests in this novel’s fantastic world-building, mythos, and character development. The various levels of magic power each creature has and the small band of heroes brave enough to face the challenges a powerhouse like Taariq presents to the world represent the power of light over darkness perfectly. The emotional bonds each of the heroes had with one another in their quest made the story more engaging.

https://amzn.to/3KPYVew

Overall Series Impression

This was a compelling, imaginative, and heartfelt fantasy series. The full character arcs that the reader was given, the world-building, and the atmospheric nature of the overall series felt cinematic and almost biblical in a sense, speaking to themes of destiny and facing the darkness both outside and within ourselves. The theme of light versus darkness was exemplified well in this story, as was the narrative of blind faith overall, making this a truly enthralling series to get lost in. Be sure to check it out for yourselves today!

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About the Author

Zachary Hagen is a fantasy author and editor. He lives his wife, Claudia, and their dog, Flynn. When he isn’t busy writing his next book or teaching, you can often find him walking around his neighbor hood or up hiking in Hanging Rock Park with his wife and their friends.

From a young age he was enthralled with the world of story. From the stories his parents read to him from his blue bedtime story books (if you know, you know) to the first two series that he read, The Chronicles of Narnia and A Series of Unfortunate Events, Zachary’s tastes continued to develop throughout his years of reading.

The influences for his first series, The Eternal Chronicles, include Christopher Paolini, J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and others.

https://zacharyhagenwrites.com

My Ex, The Antichrist by Craig DiLouie 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 notable rock band tells a shocking story of stardom, murder, and the apocalypse in author Craig DiLouie’s “My Ex, The Antichrist.”

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The Synopsis

From rising star of horror Craig DiLouie comes a twisted tale of love, heartbreak, and the apocalypse. We all have bad exes. Lily Lawlor’s just happens to be the Antichrist.

“DiLouie brings his sharp mix of heart and horror to the end of the world with this clever story about rock and roll, relationships, and destiny.” ― Peter Clines, New York Times bestselling author

1998: Lily Lawlor and Drake Morgan form a punk band. Drake inspires faith in some. Fear in others. Lily is a believer.

2010: At the height of her stardom, Lily walks into a police station and confesses to a murder.

Now: The band has refused to talk to the press about their riotous past, Lily’s confession, or anything else. It’s been over a decade, but Lily has finally agreed to an interview. And the band is following her lead.

What follows is a story of prophecy, death, and apocalypse. A story about love found and love lost. A story about the antichrist. Maybe it’s all true. Maybe none if it is.

Either way, this is their story. And they’re sticking to it.

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The Review

Immediately, I was struck by both the literal and metaphorical relationship between religion and rock music that the author tapped into. The battle between these two concepts has been a longstanding tension that generations have fought over, and the author tapped into that tension easily through the characters, especially the protagonist Lily. The detail and compelling story the author developed played well into this theme and gave readers a solid foundation for the rest of the book to come to life.

What really became the heart of the story was the characters, both as the driving force of the narrative and as the unique POVs of several characters that moved the story forward. The way the story is set up to be told, as if reading interview transcripts, was so profoundly fascinating and gave the reader so much more insight into who these characters were, to hear the story from their own perspectives. This was especially true of Lily, whose characterization of Drake as both the guitarist and the figure he became not only spoke to the apocalyptic genre that the story took on with the supernatural twist, but became a solid storytelling device that spoke to the impact toxic relationships can have overall on a person’s life and how destructive it can be to themselves and those around them.

The Verdict

Haunting, compelling, and entertaining, author Craig DiLouie’s “My Ex, The Antichrist” is a must-read supernatural occult horror thriller. The originality and creativity of the author’s writing style, the enthralling nature of the story and its characters, and the depth of emotion retelling this story had on their character arcs made this one book readers will find impossible to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Craig DiLouie is an author of popular thriller, apocalyptic/horror, and sci-fi/fantasy fiction.

In hundreds of reviews, Craig’s novels have been praised for their strong characters, action, and gritty realism. Each book promises an exciting experience with people you’ll care about in a world that feels real.

These works have been nominated for major literary awards such as the Bram Stoker Award and Audie Award, translated into multiple languages, and optioned for film. He is a member of the HWA, International Thriller Writers, and IFWA.

At www.CraigDiLouie.com, you can find all of Craig’s major works, interviews, and hundreds of interesting blog posts. Be sure to sign up for Craig’s mailing list so you can stay tuned on new releases.

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/my-ex-the-antichrist-craig-dilouie/1146511112?ean=9780316578189

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