I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A mysterious illness takes the lives of the world’s children, only to bring them back with a need to ingest human blood in author Craig DiLouie’s “Suffer the Children”.
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The Synopsis
Nominated for a 2014 Bram Stoker Award and a 2015 Audie Award!
A mysterious disease claims the world’s children before bringing them back. To continue surviving, however, they need to ingest human blood. As the blood supply wanes, parents struggle and compete to keep their children alive.
In the end, the only source left will be each other.
For these parents, the ultimate question will be: How far would you go for someone
you love?
The Review
This was such an incredible and powerful horror story. The unique twist on the genre that captivates readers to be drawn in was breathtaking. How the author explores concepts like “vampires” and “zombies” through this unique illness that impacts the children of the world was somehow even more chilling than classic vampire stories have come to be.
This chill factor is due to the unique character development and world-building here. Rather than seeing these characters battle vampire children, the horror comes from the lengths to which these parents and guardians are willing to go to protect and save the children, putting their morality and sense of self on the line to show who the actual “monsters” are in this new world.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and gripping author Craig DiLouie’s “Suffer the Children” is a must-read horror story that readers need to have in their lives. The engaging terror and storytelling that readers are treated to remind me of a classic Stephen King and Dean Koontz novel, in which the characters build the world around them and keep readers invested in the story, no matter how terrifying. 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.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
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Author Maya Shine shares a holistic and spiritual approach to preparing young people for adulthood in the book “Actionable Life Skills For Young Adults”.
The Synopsis
Discover What School Didn’t Cover!
Are you a parent or guardian worried about whether your teen will be able to fend for themselves when they leave the nest?
Are you a teen or young adult wondering which life skills you should learn to prepare for independence?
➡️ If the former, help your teen with this practical guide designed to assist them in building essential life skills while fostering communication with trusted adults.
➡️ If the latter, embark on a transformative journey, from self-discovery to the exhilarating moment of breaking free, with this research-backed, easy-to-read book, based on an innovative version of the proven 5WH framework.
Shatter the myths surrounding the challenges of adulthood as you’re guided through real-life stories, practical milestones, and thought-provoking questions. Embrace a holistic approach to personal and professional growth and learn how to:
Set clear goals to achieve your aspirations with purpose and determination.
Study smartly and conquer boredom.
Understand student federal and private loans.
Gain a clear understanding of how to succeed in the professional world.
Handle neurodiversity in the workplace for a successful professional journey.
Develop responsible financial habits to help avoid debt and achieve financial security.
Understand tax filings.
Tackle interpersonal conflicts confidently.
Ensure safety both at home and online.
Unlock a healthier and more vibrant life.
Much, much more.
In addition to the basic life skills necessary to “kick-start” the exciting adventure of adulthood, this guide encourages you to further investigate abilitiesthat align with your specific needs and goals using the suggested method. This way, you aren’t confined to the book’s content and can explore new horizons with the guidance of trusted adults.
“But everyone’s journey is unique.” You’re right! That’s why the book offers a customizable feature, empowering you to shape your own future.
“I don’t have time for a comprehensive guide.” That’s okay! You can read chapters independently, offering a flexible approach that fits your schedule.
“I’m not sure it’s relevant to my situation.” The diverse range of topics ensures relevance to common challenges faced by teens, aged 16+, in the U.S.
Choose Your Destiny!
The Review
When it comes to education, I’ve always been a firm believer in positive reinforcement. It’s how I approach reviewing as well, as I think finding the good in a person’s work and utilizing positive comments to help a person’s weaker points is the right approach. That is the heart of the author’s book here, using positivity to help guide young adults into adulthood naturally.
The book does an excellent job of honing in on various topics, from decision-making and finances to self-care and even street smarts. The reflective nature of the author’s work allows the reader to put the author’s advice and educational value into practice and serves as the perfect book to return to time and time again.
The Verdict
Engaging, thought-provoking, and insightful author Maya Shine’s “Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults” is a must-read self-help and guidebook. The straightforward yet positive approach to the subject matter and how this book can help young adults and parents hoping to ensure their children’s future is as secure as possible made this a compelling nonfiction read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Maya Shine, a proud “award-winning author” specializing in literature for teens and young adults, takes extra pride in crafting impactful, high-quality, and innovative books. With a unique blend of expertise, personal experience, and a heartfelt commitment to literary excellence, Maya celebrates her achievements by delivering exceptional narratives to readers worldwide.
Her journey, shaped by a background in computer engineering, a master’s degree in administration, and certifications in information security, has led her through diverse roles as a consultant, team leader, and manager over the past two decades. Additionally, she maintains a profound interest in psychology, art, science, literature, and spirituality.
Her most significant role unfolds in her personal life as a devoted mother to a daughter navigating the tumultuous stage of adolescence—a phase Maya herself faced unprepared. Her personal life experience acted as the catalyst for her mission: to bridge the gap in guidance and preparation, helping teens and young adults navigate the challenges of adolescence, and prepare for successful adulthood, both personally and professionally.
Driven by her passion for empowering teens and young adults, Maya penned an “award-winning book” inspired by her formative years, drawing from her transformative journey where trial and error became the path to self-discovery.
Her unique value lies in sharing personal experiences, the wisdom of inspirational figures, and innovative ideas derived from exploring literature and scientific research.
Raised by a single mother, Maya often faced limited resources, influencing her writing dedicated to young adults navigating difficult circumstances, like those raised by single parents, growing up without parental figures, facing incarceration, or identifying as neurodivergent.
Maya’s commitment extends beyond individual empowerment; it’s grounded in her belief in the collective intelligence and compassion within the global community. She envisions a world where collective efforts contribute to the growth and success of flourishing generations.
Maya’s “award-winning book” is more than a guide; it’s an empowering resource designed to inspire, enlighten, and ultimately help teens and young adults achieve fulfillment — and pass the torch to the next generation.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A deadly threat emerges and former enemies must band together to stop it in author Alan McGill’s “The Undead Wars”, the second book in the A Cry in the Moon’s Light series.
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The Synopsis
A LEADER WILL RISE AND A KINGDOM WILL FALL.
The former Duchess of Harcourt lives a quiet life. The events of the Dark Forest are a distant memory. But evil does not forget so easily. The sinister Witch King has sent new creatures to find the remaining witches.
Gruesome murders plague the land as eerie Wolf Song echoes from the mountains. Is this the return of Seth? Or something else?
Alessandra de Moreau must decide if she can work with those who killed her love, for only together will they be able to stop the Undead Army. But first, she will have to find the Dagger of Dark Silver and unravel the Mystery of the Wolf, if they are to survive The Undead Wars.
The Review
This was a gripping and captivating fantasy read. The perfect sequel to A Cry in the Moon’s Light expands upon the mythos and world-building of the first novel, allowing readers to dive deeper and deeper into the world the author has crafted. The author’s dark and grim imagery in the book is spine-chilling and beautiful in its delivery.
The story’s fantastic character development and pacing became the heart of the narrative. The pacing matched the suddenness and shock of the emerging threat of this undead army, and getting to see the way these characters from the first book have progressed in the years since the shocking ending of that first novel was incredible to see, especially the emergence of Alessandra as the heroine who has to bring these ragtag fighters together to face this undead threat was great to see come to life on the page.
The Verdict
The harrowing narrative and shocking twists and turns make this a must-read dark fantasy and gothic horror read. The introduction of both historical figures and new foes for the heroes of this tale to face will draw readers in instantly, with a couple of threats emerging as new iconic villains in the genre and the emotional pull of the main cast of characters and their emerging struggles made this a top contender for novel of 2024 early on in the year. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Alan McGill is an American author who lives in an old farmhouse with a clowder of cats. Alan was close to his grandparents, who grew up during the Great Depression. They were married young and remained together until his grandmother’s passing. His grandfather served in the Navy during WWII and was a gifted storyteller who wove humorous tales about tough events. Alan grew up listening to these stories of right and wrong and watching fictional heroes–such as the Lone Ranger, Adam West’s Batman and Captain America–stand up to bullies and protect those who count not protect themselves. This inspired him to always do what was right in his own life and shaped his love of storytelling. He is a multigenre author whose debut novel, A Cry in the Moon’s Light, combines horror, romance, and mystery. As with all his books, A Cry in the Moon’s Light centers on characters who strive to do the right thing regardless of the adversity they face. The book focuses on the theme of love–a pure and deep love that defeats all evil.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Lori Van Dusen shares the roller coaster that was her rise in the world of Wall Street in the memoir “Running with Grace”.
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The Synopsis
Nothing about Lori Van Dusen’s childhood indicated she’d become one of the nation’s top independent financial advisors. She was born prematurely with a genetic blood disorder. Her parents divorced when she and her twin brother were less than a year old. But her big, boisterous, loving Italian family, led by her beloved grandfather, a first-generation American with only an eighth-grade education, taught her that the only limitations in life are those we impose on ourselves.
As a young person, Lori wanted to sing on Broadway, not manage money on Wall Street. But in 1986, this quiet, serious young woman walked into the rough-and-tumble, eat-what-you-kill world of Shearson Lehman Brothers and never looked back. She fought her way to the top by thinking outside the box and working her ass off despite the jeers, insults, and sideways glances. Her secret weapon? A need to prove herself so strong she could outwork anyone.
But Lori’s trajectory to the top was not a straight, upward line; it was a rollercoaster. She hit the pinnacle of success only to have it ripped away in a legal battle with one of the biggest banks in the world. She was raped by a PhD candidate at Harvard, swindled by a business partner, and battled two life-altering medical diagnoses. None of that, though, would compare to having the two people she loved most in the world taken way too soon.
Despite the fear and pain, Lori remained hopeful and resilient. In this memorable, poignant, and inspiring memoir, she shares her lowest lows and highest highs as well as hard-earned wisdom from her bumpy personal, professional, and spiritual journey. Life was never meant to be fair, she learned, but we must keep running with grace if we are to find purpose and joy in the face of adversity.
The Review
This was a moving and compelling read. The author did an incredible job of layering this narrative and true story with a healthy balance of drama and heart. The author’s personal tale brought the detailed aspects of the financial industry to life, and her experiences while making her way up the corporate ladder were insightful and engaging.
Yet, it was the heart that was poured into this narrative that made the story so gripping. The memoir proved to be more about the trials and tribulations that the author faced both in their personal and professional life rather than a linear tale of the world of Wall Street, and this allowed the reader to connect and fully feel the emotional weight of the author’s life experiences. The tension and heartbreak the author’s life touches upon and how she overcame tragedy to become the person she is today send a sad yet uplifting message that readers can resonate with powerfully.
The Verdict
Remarkable, insightful, and engaging author Lori Van Dusen’s “Running with Grace” is a must-read memoir and business book. The heartfelt delivery of such a personal story and its impact on the author’s life and readers looking to make their mark in the world will keep people invested in this thoughtful and heartening read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
Lori Van Dusen, CIMA®, is the Founder and CEO of LVW Advisors, a registered investment advisory firm that serves both wealthy families and individuals, as well as nonprofit institutions throughout the United States. An advocate of client-focused strategies for more than 25 years, she has become the voice of reason for providing comprehensive integrated solutions in a fragmented financial services industry.
Lori began her investment advisory career in 1987 with Shearson Lehman Brothers, which was later acquired by Citigroup Smith Barney. By 2004, she had achieved the title of Managing Director with Citigroup Smith Barney. She founded LVW Advisors in 2011.
A recipient of numerous accolades, Lori was named to Barron’s Financial Advisor Hall of Fame, which recognizes advisors who have appeared in 10 or more of Barron’s annual Top 100 Advisor rankings. Additionally, Lori was ranked #1 in New York – NY State on Forbes’ 2023 and 2022 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list, and has been ranked for five consecutive years on Forbes’ America’s Top Wealth Advisors list and Forbes’ America’s Top Women Advisors lists. In 2022, she was named CEO of the Year by Institutional Investor’s RIA Intel.
In recognition of her involvement in the Rochester community, Lori was recognized in the Rochester Business Journal’s 2023, 2022, and 2021 Power 100 list and received the 2020 Women of Excellence distinction with the Circle of Excellence honor. The Circle of Excellence recognizes a small group of women each year with longstanding, notable success in the community who are leading the way for other women. Additionally, Lori was inducted into the 2019 Rochester Business Hall of Fame and joins a prestigious list of Rochester business leaders who have been previously inducted. Lori has also been recognized by the Girl Scouts of Western New York as one of the 2019 Women of Distinction.
Lori is passionate about numerous philanthropic causes, serving on several boards focused on urban education, health and wellness and the fine arts, including the Monroe Community College Foundation Board, the University of Rochester Medical Center Board, the F.F. Thompson Health System Board, and the Memorial Art Gallery Board of Managers.
Lori was one of the founders of the Association of Professional Investment Consultants (APIC) and Citigroup Institutional Consulting. She holds the Certified Investment Management Analyst® designation, administered by the Investments and Wealth Institute® (formerly IMCA) in conjunction with The Wharton School. Lori received her undergraduate degree from Ithaca College and a Master of Education from Harvard University.
Lori is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestselling book Running with Grace: A Wall Street Insider’s Path to True Leadership, a Purposeful Life, and Joy in the Face of Adversity, published in 2023.
A native of Rochester, New York, Lori is a long-distance runner and an avid yogi, and enjoys decorating and savoring the area’s local music scene. She regularly cooks and hosts large Italian meals for her family and friends.
No compensation was paid to obtain the above awards. LVW Advisors paid a fee for promotional materials related to Forbes and Barron’s awards. Please see our Disclosures page for additional information.
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Interview with Author Lori Van Dusen
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I’ve always had a connection to the page. I believe writing regularly helps me be more creative and also helps flesh out ideas. I’ve been writing regularly since university. I’ve contributed a number of white papers to my industry journals, write out every speech I’ve ever delivered and journal daily as a way to relieve stress and organize my thoughts. I will admit though, I’d never considered myself a writer with a capital W, and certainly never appreciated how hard it was to write a book.
2) What inspired you to write your book, Running with Grace?
I began writing Running with Grace as a personal journal to help with my healing process from the unexpected loss of my husband. When I lost my mom, just a short time later, I wished she had captured her life story for me before she passed away from cancer. I miss her every day, and thought if I had her with me on the page, it would be such a comfort.
I started the project as a way to capture my life’s stories for my sons, and as I shared it with people, including my sons, they all encouraged me to collect the stories into a book to publish them.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
Resilience, for sure. I am hoping the book inspires people to find their inner strength and embrace moving through all the things that happen to them, both the good and the horrific. I don’t think you don’t need to go through unspeakable tragedy to be wise, but as I look at my life now, I realize that I am a much wiser and more thoughtful person for going through the loss of my husband and mother.
If my book helps people even get through one day a little lighter, then I think it will have been worthwhile.
It’s been so gratifying to me to see the reviews from people who have read the book. Running with Grace is a Wall Street Journal bestseller and been praised for its “emotional power” by Kirkus Reviews and Readers’ Favorite describes it as “a story of triumphs and defeats inspiring readers to never give up.”
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I never thought I would write a memoir. I had been toying with writing a book of business lessons from a woman in finance and I had even began an outline before my husband died.
After my husband died, I started to believe there had to be a reason all these tragic things had happened to me, and that I wanted to share the lessons that I had learned. It’s such a deeply personal book that the only way I thought to reach people was to write it as a memoir. My individual stories became chapters with the thread of resilience tying them all together.
5) If you could sit down with any character in your book (apart from yourself!), what would you ask them and why?
Without a doubt, my grandfather. I have so many questions for him that as a child I would have never thought to ask. I would love to learn more of his story–about his upbringing and how he became the person of such deep integrity. I’d also love to know what it really felt like when as a man in his middle age he became essentially the father to twin babies. I can’t imagine that was easy, but I never felt anything but love and support from him.
6) Has there been a social media site in particular that has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
LinkedIn has been hugely beneficial for me. Not only is it the only social media site I personally spend time on, but I’ve found the connections I’ve made to be richer and more fruitful. LinkedIn recently connected me to a podcast series, that invited me to do a live chat for their subscribers. To support the event, they purchased books as well as interviewed me. LinkedIn hasn’t been overwhelmed by the noise of the other social media platforms, yet. And I am hoping it stays that way.
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Find a great editor. No one writes a book alone. The book writing process is much more difficult than I expected. I independently published and invested in professionals to guide me through what feels very much like the wild west process.
I also suggest an aspiring writer assemble a group of trusted beta readers who will give candid feedback. My beta readers were incredibly helpful, especially at identifying some of the business discussions that were too insider baseball for a wider audience. Every writer (and person really) has inherent biases and a diverse group of outside readers can spot them for you. Include people who don’t know you personally to get the most objective feedback.
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Are any new books/projects on the horizon?
If readers learn anything from the book it is that the old Yiddish adage “Man Plans and God Laughs” is true. It’s futile to control the future. The only thing you can control is your actions in the present. My life has played out in no way that I had ever envisioned and my hope is that this book will introduce me to an audience outside the finance community as the message is really relevant to women and men everywhere.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
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Author Desiree Carpenter helps readers bridge the gap between race and culture using the lyrics of artist Tupac Shakur to craft a workbook in the book “Let’s Talk About It: Tupac Shakur; More Than the Music”.
The Synopsis
Safe space conversations can be the foundations to build bridges between our differences of race, culture, social issues, and all things that affect everyday people. This workbook is intended to help professors and other educators, public leaders, non-profits, community organizers, and the public interested in having the dialogues that can bring about community growth and positive change.
Each chapter contains a Tupac song that we will break down and discuss through conversation and questions. The chapters begin and end with relatable quotes by prolific writers from, Tzu Sun, St. Augustine, and Harriet Tubman to Jay Z, Beyonce, KRS One, Meek Mill and Barack Obama. These quotes are intended to spark our brains into thinking of things greater than ourselves. The challenge would be to ask ourselves, “Why did this person say this?” and “Did it need to be said at all?” What were the conditions that would drive someone to say something so profound?
The goal is to encourage heartfelt dialogue between people from different communities and perspectives that is challenging yet inviting.
Professors and group leaders can use this tool to guide these deep and at times very uncomfortable conversations and differences of opinion in safe space atmospheres without the fear of backlash due to the perception of a position. Incorporating hip-hop lyrics from an artist such as Tupac can aid in the growth of what we have in common and better understand what we don’t have in common in a more meaningful way.
The Review
This was an insightful and compelling read. The author did an incredible job of balancing the musical component of Tupac Shakur’s lyrics with the artist’s words’ impact on the world as a whole. The idea of using Tupac’s music as a way of connecting us all was such an inspired idea, as the music found in these pages and the lyrics that go with each song made the reader stop to not only appreciate the music but genuinely reflect on what each of the lyrics meant overall.
One example of a song that stood out to me was Better Dayz, which spoke of the value of friendship, the struggles communities face, and the need to keep one’s faith in a brighter and better tomorrow in the face of true adversity. The author connected the lyrics by showcasing how the song was meant to be viewed, as a communication between two friends, and by analyzing the lyrics to show the more profound meaning readers can feel and hold onto emotionally and mentally.
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The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging author Desiree Carpenter’s “Let’s Talk About It” is a must-read nonfiction and social book. The deep and impactful lyrics and how they speak to the need to bridge the gap between people of different backgrounds made this a compelling read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
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An eccentric bitcoin billionaire must escape the clutches of a relentless assassin and prevent his enemies from gaining control of a key to a mysterious genesis block in author Jeff Bryan’s “Genesis Block: A Novel”.
The Synopsis
A BITCOIN SUSPENSE THRILLER ABOUT KEEPING SATOSHI’S DREAM ALIVE
“The Merkle root secures the block. The Genesis Block holds the key.”
Secret Guardians who made Bitcoin unstoppable are being fatally pursued to decrypt a message that secures a key in a mysterious Genesis Block.
The year is 2059 and digital money is ubiquitous. The dominant form is bitcoin. Entrenched in the global financial system at $1.1 million per token, it had become too critical to fail. Eccentric bitcoin billionaire Alex Adisa and his seven Guardians of the secret Bitcoin Resilience Project establish an unlikely home for the stateless currency; governments are powerless to shut it down. Bitcoin will never fail. The project will continue for posterity through a cryptic succession protocol.
“The Merkle root secures the block. The Genesis Block holds the key.”
These words are inscribed in non-fungible tokens, to be delivered by smart contracts to Guardians on the event of Alex’s death. It would launch the orderly succession of Guardian leadership and transfer control of vast wealth. The succession protocol is initiated, yet Alex is alive and well.
Stumped by the conundrum inscribed in the NFT, a malicious agent pursues Guardians for answers, leaving a trail of death in the wake.
With an assassin on his heels, Alex scrambles to preserve his legacy and prevent an adversary from accessing a key in a mysterious genesis block.
The Review
This was a thrilling and captivating blend of sci-fi thriller and financial suspense mystery. The author expertly crafted a narrative grounded in reality and fantastic in scope. The futuristic setting and intense atmosphere helped elevate the tension, keeping the characters invested in this mystery’s action and suspense.
The heart of this narrative and the driving force behind the story is the blend of utilizing Bitcoin as the source of currency in the future and the dynamic character development that this novel holds. The memorable and complex character growth, especially for protagonist Alex, allowed the reader to see the progression and growth that went on, and the examination of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency as a whole in our society laid an excellent foundation for the overall mystery to flourish.
The Verdict
Harrowing, adrenaline-fueled, and engaging author Jeff Bryan’s Genesis Block: A Novel is a must-read financial and futuristic thriller. The narrative’s twists and turns, compelling character arcs, and unique spin on the growing cryptocurrency movement make this a must-read novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Jeff Bryan is a writer and speaker based in Toronto. He holds an Honours BA in Law and Society, and an MA in Socio-Legal Studies. Jeff wrote a Major Research Paper examining Bitcoin’s social utility and legal conflicts.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
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A new band of heroes must work together on yet another alternate Earth as the people of Earth reach to the stars in author Katrina Zari’s “The Mage of Terra: Warriors of Mirral”.
The Synopsis
If you have already read “The Queen of Nordern” then you probably know about the Mirral world, an alternate version of Earth.
But what if there are more worlds?
In this book, a world called Terra is another version of Earth, where humanity took a path of space exploration and travel.
Unfortunately, this world has also expanded in inequality, where the Core planets are rich and powerful, while the outsiders have to maintain a low life.
A small spaceship crew of undesirables meets a young girl with very unusual abilities and a strange history. Follow their adventures to find out about the world of Terra.
The Review
This was another thrilling and captivating read. The author did a phenomenal job crafting a unique narrative connected to the original novel, yet it was vastly different in genre and setting. The imagery the author conjures up through their writing expertly showcases the intensity of the action and the cosmic scope of the narrative overall.
The way the author crafts these new characters and the shocking connections they share to the original story make this an exciting novel. The world-building and in-depth character development engage the reader with the narrative, and the rich atmosphere the author develops will bring readers into the world of Terra and the Mirral universe.
The Verdict
Remarkable, thought-provoking, and entertaining author Katrina Zari’s “The Mage of Terra” is a must-read sci-fi and fantasy book. The narrative’s twists and turns, the dynamic world-building, and the cliffhanger ending will leave readers eager for book 3. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Katrina Zari, an author born and raised in Russia, spent a significant time of her life immersed in its rich culture before transitioning on a life-changing journey to the United States two decades ago. Her decision to relocate was driven by love, as she followed the one and only person who held her heart. Throughout her upbringing, Katrina developed a strong passion for literature, particularly science fiction, fantasy, and related genres. The local public library became her second home, where she would lose herself for countless hours in the captivating stories written by Asimov and Bradbury, King and Tolkien, Verne and Stephenson, or any other Si-Fi book she could access.
Inspired by these literary giants, Katrina’s creative mind was crowded with stories of her own imagination. She always wrote stories in her head, inspired by those great books. She was adding her own characters and coming up with their new adventures. It was no surprise that her stories predominantly featured a courageous female protagonist, a reflection of her deep understanding of these inspiring heroines whom she gladly associated herself with.
Years later, she found the courage to transition those stories from her thoughts onto paper.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
WARNING: THIS NOVELLA FEATURES A CONSENSUAL BDSM RELATIONSHIP. ELEMENTS OF EROTICA ARE ALSO FEATURED. READER DISCRETION ADVISED.
A woman discovers a sexual awakening as she enters into a BDSM relationship in author Evie Wolfe’s “Becoming His”.
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The Synopsis
Becoming His, the debut novella by Evie Wolfe, follows a wide-eyed college senior called Kara as she slips into a world of erotic intrigue and submission.
While casually grocery shopping, a debonair stranger unexpectedly extends an invitation that, despite all her reservations, Kara just couldn’t bring herself to turn down…
“Surprisingly, the thought of being at his mercy didn’t frighten her. It thrilled her. He had aroused her interest without even trying like no man ever had. And if Kara were honest with herself, she had to admit, at the very least, to being curious about what it would be like to model for this dashingly inscrutable man, and to be, perhaps, naked and totally under his command. Did she really have anything to lose?”
Join Kara on her journey of self-discovery from the sensual depths of her depravity and pain to the celestial heights of her climactic pleasure!
Becoming His will have you riveted and gripped from the very first letter, aching to finish, and absolutely satisfied many times over by the time you finish reading!
The Review
To say this novella was heated is an understatement. The passion that the author’s writing ignited between these characters was felt intensely, thanks to the powerful imagery in the author’s writing style. The tension that mounts as the story builds between the main characters makes this captivating.
Yet, the characters’ development and the descriptive writing style stood out in this book. The protagonist, Kara, and her evolution as she discovers this need within her she never knew she had, and the heated, gripping passion that overtakes her as she gives herself over to this man keeps the reader invested in Kara’s journey.
The Verdict
Compelling, heated, and engaging author Evie Wolfe’s “Becoming His” is a must-read erotic novella. The twists and turns in the story, the adult-driven imagery and atmosphere, and the rich character dynamics make this a thrilling novel that is not to be missed. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
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A group of people must traverse Ireland in the midst of great upheaval and turmoil to restore reality and face a powerful enemy intent on destroying their destiny forever in author M.E. Grantham’s “Shifting Realities: The Hill”.
The Synopsis
At the brink of civil strife, Maeve, a remarkable energy healer in the serene landscapes of Ireland, struggles with haunting visions of three mysterious individuals. As chaos breaks upon their troubled homelands, Nick, James, and Carrie, driven by a desperate need to escape the inexplicable turmoil, unexpectedly come together on a destined journey to Ireland, where an unnatural connection weaves its magic among them.
Drawn by unseen forces and mysterious visions, their paths combine upon Maeve, a mysterious figure harboring the key to their intertwined destinies. United, they unravel harrowing revelations about their shared pasts, unfamiliar with the insidious destruction lurking within the shadows. Now, standing at the edge of an unraveling world, they must confront a daunting truth: the weight of restoring reality to its rightful course rests solely upon their shoulders.
In this gripping tale of resilience and sacrifice, follow Maeve, Nick, James, and Carrie as they navigate a deadly odyssey of uncertainty, danger, and self-discovery. As their connected destinies come together, they must confront their deepest fears and pass a tough test of their determination. Will they set things right and live to see a better future, or will a powerful enemy destroy their fate, leaving the world in endless misery and damage?
The Review
This was a compelling and gripping sci-fi meets metaphysical fantasy story. The reader is instantly transported to an alternate future storyline in which America sees states seceding from the Union, and people feel the political and social divides, something many modern readers can attest to in their own lives. The relatability of the inciting incidents and the tense atmosphere the author crafts allow the magic and spiritual journey the characters go on to be more profound and engaging.
Yet, as with any fantasy-driven story, character development was the heart of the narrative. Maeve brings these three people together, and how each character is given proper attention and personal history that they must overcome for the greater mission ahead of them makes this story’s overall action and wonderment feel more thoughtful. The exploration of ideas like cosmic scientific study and physiological aspects of our bodies and energy being connected to the grander tapestry of the universe allowed the reader to engage with more profound and exciting ideas through this fictional tale.
The Verdict
Memorable, thoughtful, and entertaining author M.E. Grantham’s “Shifting Realities: The Hill” is a must-read sci-fi and fantasy metaphysical novel. The international suspense narrative delves into different cultures and backgrounds and other universes, making this a remarkable journey that readers won’t be able 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
M.E. Grantham, the author, brings a wealth of life experiences and a diverse background to her writing. Her upbringing in a military family exposed her to various cultures and ideas through extensive travel. Having lived in England for two years, she was fortunate to have an English teacher who ignited her passion for literature, laying the foundation for her literary journey.
Captivated by the intricacies of different societies, Grantham pursued a study of sociology, delving deeper into understanding the dynamics of human interaction. Her curiosity eventually led her to explore nursing, healing, and energy work , including modalities such as Reiki, Tibetan shamanic healing, and multi-dimensional healing. These transformative practices became an integral part of her personal growth following her father’s passing, inspiring her to share her experiences and insights through her writing.
To refine her artistic expression, Grantham dedicated herself to honing her writing skills. She immersed herself in the writing community, becoming a proud member of both The Porch in Nashville and the Atlanta Writers Club. Here, she engages with fellow writers, sharing ideas and fostering a supportive environment that nurtures creativity.
The resilient human spirit and the ability to overcome adversity serve as Grantham’s greatest sources of inspiration.
Witnessing individuals rise above their circumstances and transform into the best versions of themselves fuels her desire to learn, grow, and evolve, both personally and as a writer. She aspires to contribute to the collective human journey by offering hope, motivation, and insight through her words.
Outside the world of writing, Grantham resides just outside Nashville with her husband, sister, and a small pack of dogs. Her leisure time is enriched with reading and listening to audiobooks across a variety of genres. She enjoys spending quality time with her grown children and grandson, exploring the joys of painting, traveling, and engaging in playful rounds of hide and seek with her yellow lab, Bear. M.E. Grantham’s life experiences and dedication to holistic healing are deeply reflected in her writing, offering readers a unique perspective and inspiring stories.
