Monday, September 28, 2020

Shira’s Voice By Hila Almog

Shira’s Voice: Open your heart to a fascinating world of silent communication and acceptance of the otherShira’s Voice: Open your heart to a fascinating world of silent communication and acceptance of the other by Hila Almog
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A wonderful story that teaches children valuable life lessons...

More often than not children relate themselves with the characters of a good story. In such circumstances, reading fiction can help them to get inspiration from the characters. These stories often portray real life implications through anecdotes, and as such makes it easier for them to understand the complex aspects of life. Moreover, reading these stories at regular intervals can actually help them to develop a positive outlook towards life, which eventually proves beneficial for good character development.

Shira’s Voice by Hila Almog is a beautiful book about opening your heart to the fascinating world of silent communication and accepting others for who they are. It’s a delightful and charming book for the younger reader. I read it with my grandkids, and they loved not only the story, but also the amazing illustrations by Michal Gorelick. I thought the text and illustrations worked very well together and the book was perfectly translated from the Hebrew by Mandi Kogosowski.

Israeli author Hila Almog writes in a wonderful, simple and imaginative style that will guarantee the attention of young minds. If you ever wanted to bond even more with your children or grandchildren, this would be a lovely story to share with them.

Our entire life is made up of lessons, like chapters in a book. Lessons that have been taught to us and those we've had to learn on our own. Lessons we enjoyed learning and lessons we wished we could forget. Lessons we will pass on to our children and others, and of course the many more lessons we will continue to have throughout our lifetime. I’ve read and reviewed many children’s books over the years, but I have to say that this book beautifully introduces children to a story that will make them aware of the fact that not everybody is born the same way.

It seems to me that this book was created with a lot of love and joy and it’s clear that the author really enjoys creating such wonderful stories. Thank you for sharing with us the gift that you have obviously worked so hard to refine. We’ll be looking forward to seeing what’s coming next. A well-deserved five stars from us!

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The Interludes A Sexual Odyssey

The Interludes A Sexual OdysseyThe Interludes A Sexual Odyssey by J.K. Duval
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A fun sexy erotic novel for mature audiences...

“Sex is like air; it’s not important unless you aren’t getting any.” — John Callahan

The Interludes A Sexual Odyssey by J.K. Duval is a superbly written and richly descriptive novel with brilliantly drawn characters and settings. The threads of storytelling are expertly woven in this collection of devilishly delicious short stories that will guarantee the attention of the reader. The erotica is accomplished in the delivery of exciting and titillating prose. From mild illusions through detailed, sexy scenes, the concept is wonderfully delivered in truly amazing writing.

The book description gives a sneak preview: ‘The Interludes, A Sexual Odyssey, is the fun sexy erotic novel for mature audiences. Seven different characters will take you along for almost every conceivable match-up in some seriously sexy locales. From a beach-side cottage along the warm moonlit waters of Jamaica to a shower stall in London’s famed Claridge’s Hotel, across the hills of Tuscany to a magnificent 18 room oceanfront shingle style home on the western shores of Martha’s Vineyard, these are just a few of the places that will spread out before you on this journey of erotic discovery. If you blush easily, you might want to look elsewhere for your night-table reading. Then again you may wish to share what’s behind this cover with someone you love and create your own sexual odyssey.’

I enjoyed the stories, character development, and dialogue. With plenty of steamy moments, I’ve no doubt that fans of Erotica will know exactly who’s coming and going in these graphic tales. When I stopped reading to work, I found myself wondering what happened in the book, and replaying parts of the novel in my head to see if I could figure more out. It has been a while since I enjoyed a book this much. It’s a well-written collection of Erotica stories with perfect pacing.

There’s no doubt that The Interludes A Sexual Odyssey is an exceptionally well-written book. However, it must be said that these stories are not for the faint-hearted or easily offended. The author’s script at times is razor-sharp and will penetrate deeply, so to speak, into the emotions of its reader. There are scenes of a graphic sexual nature with language that may not be suitable for the linguistically sensitive. Nevertheless, the themes and outcome are just as affecting in the arresting contemporary landscape. A well-deserved five stars from me. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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Saturday, September 26, 2020

The Big Fall (Nick Seven Book 7) by Tim Smith

The Big Fall (Nick Seven Book 7)The Big Fall by Tim Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A well-crafted murder mystery thriller with perfect pacing...

The Big Fall by Tim Smith is a superbly written and richly descriptive novel with brilliantly drawn characters and settings. The threads of storytelling are expertly woven in this murder mystery thriller that will guarantee the attention of the reader. There are plenty of engaging moments in this page-turner that will take the reader on a gripping journey. The story unfurls in small acts, at first feeling slight to touch, then building in emotional substance. Into the spaces between the words, the author breathes a pulsating intensity that rolls like a motion picture camera.

The book description gives a sneak preview: ‘Former spies Nick Seven and Felicia Hagens are taking a break from Key Largo to visit a casino owned by Nick’s friend, Rock Bianco. An unexpected, nasty encounter with one of Nick’s former lovers turns disastrous when she’s killed shortly afterward. The police and the girl’s wealthy father are convinced that Nick did it, despite the lack of hard evidence. The billionaire industrialist wages an online smear campaign to make Nick look guilty, including sordid details from his past career in the CIA. The stakes become more personal when the fallout impacts Felicia, testing their relationship. Nick fights back, but why is the man determined to hold him responsible for his daughter’s murder? Who really killed her, and why is their identity being shielded? Can Nick and Felicia resolve this crisis and reclaim their idyllic life in paradise?’

I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. There were plenty of plot twists that I didn’t see coming and that added to the book’s mystique. When I stopped reading to work, I found myself wondering what happened in the book, and replaying parts of the novel in my head to see if I could figure more out. It has been a while since I enjoyed a book this much. It’s a first-class mystery thriller with perfect pacing. Not much is as it appears here, which is just the way fans of mystery, thriller and suspense will want it.

The Big Fall (Nick Seven Book 7) had every element a good story should have. An intriguing plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well-illustrated scenes that make you feel like you are right there in the story, and that’s something I look for in a good book. It’s one of those stories that come along once in a while that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader!

I’ll be looking forward to reading more from Tim Smith in the future. I would highly recommend this book to all fans of mystery, thriller and suspense. A well-deserved five stars from me.

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Friday, September 25, 2020

ONLY OUR DESTINY by A.G. Russo

ONLY OUR DESTINYONLY OUR DESTINY by A.G. Russo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is absolutely amazing!

Whenever I read historical fiction I get so wrapped up in the lives of the characters that I want to know everything about them. Where they lived, their living conditions, cooking methods used, along with popular food items of the period, clothing styles, education - you name it, I want to know about it. A.G. Russo has excelled in writing a novel that authentically depicts every aspect of the time period. The characters have depth and integrity, and the dialogue is spot on, taking the reader straight back to another time and place. I imagined myself walking amongst the characters as I was reading.

I am truly in awe of ONLY OUR DESTINY by A.G. Russo. I highly recommend this book to fans of historical fiction, and those wanting to experience the life and times of a different era. The author manages to cover some serious ground in a seamless, thoughtful read. A well-deserved five stars from me.

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Looking for Alice: A Gunvor Ström Novel by Luna Miller

Looking for Alice: A Gunvor Strom NovelLooking for Alice: A Gunvor Strom Novel by Luna Miller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A well-written mystery crime novel...

Swedish author Luna Miller weaves a first-class mystery and crime novel with intriguing twists and turns that will easily captivate the reader’s attention from the beginning. The author paints a modern and compelling Miss Marple type character with some impressive aikido skills to boot. In addition, the characters are drawn with great credibility and conviction. It’s a moderately fast-paced novel that will keep you engaged from the first page to the last.

The subject matter may not appeal to every mystery fan, but if you're looking for a fresh voice in mystery narrative, infused with graphic details, Luna Miller delivers in Looking for Alice.

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Forbidden Woman by Blair Bronwyn

Forbidden WomanForbidden Woman by Blair Bronwyn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An excellent debut novel...

Forbidden Woman by Blair Bronwyn is a wonderfully written and richly descriptive novel with brilliantly drawn characters and settings. The author weaves a well-crafted historical fiction that will have you turning the pages from beginning to end. There’s also plenty of imagery in the writing style that makes you feel you are right there in the story, and that’s something I look for in a good book.

This was a captivating and thought-provoking read that had me immersed from the beginning. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. It’s been a while since I enjoyed a book this much.

This for me was a phenomenal read. It was one of those books that stayed with me for several days after I finished reading. The vivid descriptions of the settings, situations, and the people were stunning and realistic. It’s one of those stories that come along occasionally that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader.

I’ll be looking forward to reading more from Blair Bronwyn in the future. I would highly recommend this book and add that it has a distinctly cinematic feel to it. A well-deserved five stars from me.

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Promiscuous Innovation: A New Model for Working in the Innovation Economy

Promiscuous Innovation: A New Model for Working in the Innovation EconomyPromiscuous Innovation: A New Model for Working in the Innovation Economy by Elle Shelley Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An informative, insightful and unique way of looking at innovation...

Product innovation is the development of better products for the consumer. These new products improve on the functionality of same products on the market. By innovating, you will be able to give yourself an advantage over your competitors.

Product innovation makes your business successful as it ensures that you maintain a lion's share of the market. For this reason, it is paramount that you instil and nurture the innovative spirit. In Promiscuous Innovation: A New Model for Working in the Innovation Economy by Elle Shelley Black the author states that she has the answers, and, in this very well written book, she provides them. Highly recommended.


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Starting From Scratch: One Woman's Pursuit Of Family, Business And The American Dream

Starting From Scratch: One Woman's Pursuit Of Family, Business And The American DreamStarting From Scratch: One Woman's Pursuit Of Family, Business And The American Dream by Shelly Henderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It’s never too late to chase the dream...

Starting From Scratch: One Woman's Pursuit Of Family, Business And The American Dream by Shelly Henderson is one of the most inspiring books I've come across recently, it’s never preachy as some books often become. Reading Henderson's work is like reading the adventures of a good friend - down-to-earth and downright inspiring. It’s a great motivational book for every female entrepreneur that wants to pursue their dream of owning their own business. Highly recommended.


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Wednesday, September 23, 2020

21 Days: The Random Thoughts of a Brother in Mourning

21 Days: The Random Thoughts of a Brother in Mourning21 Days: The Random Thoughts of a Brother in Mourning by Donald Richard Dragovich
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A deeply personal account about death, faith and questioning God...

Mourning and grief are natural human responses to the death of a loved one. The onset of grief is from the moment an individual becomes aware of the death of a loved one. At this point they begin the process of grief, which has no set time, as grief affects everyone in different ways. The intensity of the feelings associated with grief depends on the circumstances of the loss, the closeness of the relationship and the conditioning of the person who has experienced the loss.

21 Days: The Random Thoughts of a Brother in Mourning by Donald R. Dragovich is literally the random thoughts of the author about death, faith, and God. The book description better explains: ‘21 Days is the chronological countdown to David’s death as described by his brother, Donald. His written thoughts document what was happening to his brother David as he quickly succumbed to esophageal cancer. Donald describes his emotional turmoil in dealing with his brother’s untimely and unstoppable death. He asks a powerful, rhetorical question that makes everyone ponder their mortality. What would you do if doctors told you, you or a loved one only have twenty-one days to live? How would you react? Donald reacted by questioning his faith in God and God’s power over cancer during this countdown.

Donald’s brother David was given twenty-one days to live on September 29, 2015. In dealing with the reality of his oldest brother’s death, Donald expressed his feelings by writing down what happened each day and how he felt. He describes how he cursed at God, questioned God’s divine intervention, and even God’s existence because no prayers were answered, no miracle cure and no death reprieve were in sight. Donald refers to the esophageal cancer that David had as an evil demon. He shows his anger and disgust with cancer and how it destroys not only a person but a family. He expresses his torment and anguish as he counts down the days, but in the end, ultimately embraces his spirituality.

When the inevitable became more and more real, Donald found his faith and accepted his brother’s fate. When Donald found his faith in God, it was a comforting, coping mechanism helping him deal with the inevitable death of his oldest brother. Donald describes other instances of spirituality that he has personally experienced and how he turns these tragic events into faith-renewing experiences.’

There is no set period for the process of mourning, which extends from the onset of grief to the time when the bereaved has come to terms with the loss and adjusted to the changes that occur in their lives as a result of the death. This period is different for everyone. Always a difficult subject to deal with, but I think the author did a great job that will help many people of faith who are in mourning. Highly recommended.

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Saturday, September 19, 2020

Culture Code Champions: 7 Steps To Scale & Succeed In Your Business by Bill Higgs

Culture Code Champions: 7 Steps To Scale & Succeed In Your BusinessCulture Code Champions: 7 Steps To Scale & Succeed In Your Business by Bill Higgs
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Developing leadership skills and much more...

Culture Code Champions: 7 Steps To Scale & Succeed In Your Business by Bill Higgs demonstrates that businesses should not only be concerned about the quality of goods and services they produce to generate profit, but also pursue policies that sell their enterprises by contributing to the quality of life in the working environment.

Businesses also have responsibilities to protect and improve society. The entrepreneur can earn more profit by displaying a high degree of corporate responsiveness, which is the ability of an organization to relate its operations and policies to the environment in ways that are mutually beneficial to the organization and society.

Culture Code Champions is more than just a business book; It’s a multi-layered life-improvement book, an inspirational guide showing people how to implement the necessary habits that will help them to sell and perform better than the competition. It’s a short book that packs a powerful punch. Highly recommended.

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The Seven Epaulettes of Leadership by Shawn Abrams

The Seven Epaulettes of LeadershipThe Seven Epaulettes of Leadership by Shawn Abrams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An informative and insightful read...

Since the establishment of business, organizations have searched for clues to help identify and select successful leaders. They have searched for people of vision with that rare combination of attributes that help them serve as motivator, business driver, and authority figure. The concept of leadership has been widely observed and frequently studied, but a thorough understanding of what defines successful leadership has always remained just out of reach, until now.

The Seven Epaulettes of Leadership by Shawn Abrams provides an easier way to determine the perfect leadership recipe for your organization across multiple behavioral dimensions. It’s a fascinating read that will help you to expand your thought process, teach you how not to be told how to “think” about something or someone, and to be creative in your search for alternative answers. A book that shows the true purpose and moral side of leadership, it’s an invaluable resource for both personal and professional growth. Highly recommended.

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Friday, September 18, 2020

The Ballad of Ricky Risotto by Marc Cavella

The Ballad of Ricky RisottoThe Ballad of Ricky Risotto by Marc Cavella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nacho Libre meets Quentin Tarantino...

It' outrageous and hilarious, yet The Ballad of Ricky Risotto has the same kind of sweet poignancy its author Marc Cavella brought to his previous novel, ‘Tabernacle’. It’s a wonderfully written and richly descriptive novella with brilliantly drawn characters and settings. The author weaves a well-crafted sports fiction with a generous sprinkling ‘barbed-wire-sharp dialogue, and old-school roster packed with outrageous personalities’. The story had every element a good story should have. A solid plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well-illustrated scenes that make you feel you are right there in the story, and that’s something I look for in a good book.

The book description gives a sneak preview: ‘t's 1979, and the world of professional wrestling is about to change forever. Small regional promotions are in danger of going extinct, gobbled up by greedy promoters from New York looking to monopolize the industry and make it acceptable to the masses… Ozark Championship Wrestling is determined to avoid that fate. They're about to produce their first Pay-Per-View show, which will make or break their fortunes. But there's one small problem: Their champion has no plans to relinquish his title at the match—hell, he might not even show up at all. And Waylon Pritchards—aka Ricky Risotto—is the only one who might be able to talk some sense into the champ and save OCW's tenuous future . . .’

I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. There were plenty of plot twists that I didn’t see coming and that added to the book’s mystique. When I stopped reading to work, I found myself wondering what happened in the book, and replaying parts of the novel in my head to see if I could figure more out. It has been a while since I enjoyed a book this much.

The contrast between tone and content is a characteristic talent of only a few authors. Cavella pays as much attention to his sentences as he does to his plots, shifting or merging meaning with the use of a single word. His writing is impeccably honed, full of juxtapositions and qualifications that help to create a humorous atmosphere that will leave you laughing out loud.

This for me was a phenomenal read. It was one of those books that stayed with me for several days after I finished reading. The vivid descriptions of the settings, situations, and the people were stunning and realistic. The author’s use of genuine dialogue further added to the overall atmosphere of authenticity. It’s one of those stories that come along occasionally that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader.

Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me.

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The Secret Diaries of Juan Luis Vives: A Novel

The Secret Diaries of Juan Luis Vives: A NovelThe Secret Diaries of Juan Luis Vives: A Novel by Tim Darcy Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An engaging page-turner...

The Secret Diaries of Juan Luis Vives by Tim Darcy Ellis is a wonderfully written and richly descriptive novel with brilliantly drawn characters and settings. The author weaves a well-crafted historical fiction based on the life of renowned academic Juan Luis Vives. Skillfully constructed and set against the backdrop of sixteenth-century England and Spain, this story will have you turning the pages from beginning to end.

This was a captivating read that had me immersed from the beginning. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. There were plenty of intriguing moments that I didn’t see coming and that added to the book’s mystique.

When I stopped reading to work, I found myself wondering what happened in the book, and replaying parts of the novel in my head to see if I could figure more out. It has been a while since I enjoyed a book this much. It’s a first-class historical fiction with perfect pacing. Highly recommended.


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Getting Unstuck: How to transform your life one step at a time by Cara Stein

Getting Unstuck: How to transform your life one step at a timeGetting Unstuck: How to transform your life one step at a time by Cara Stein
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Achieving a better you...

Over the years there have been many great self-help books written. Most of these inspirational books have a similar message, to teach you methods on how to improve your life by implementing various techniques. They all have a common thread running through them, by changing your habits or mindset you can become successful or reach your goals in life.

Getting Unstuck: How to transform your life one step at a time by Cara Stein is a very well written life improvement book. This book is intelligent, wise and packed to the rafters with practical common-sense advice. It becomes very obvious as you read through this page turner that the author is imparting her wisdom and understanding as to what happiness and success really means. It’s an excellent guide for putting things into perspective. Highly recommended.


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Thursday, September 17, 2020

Emotional Intelligence: 100+ Skills, Tips, Tricks & Techniques to Improve Interpersonal Connection, Control Your Emotions, Build Self Confidence & Find Long Lasting Success!

Emotional Intelligence: 100+ Skills, Tips, Tricks & Techniques to Improve Interpersonal Connection, Control Your Emotions, Build Self Confidence & Find Long Lasting Success! (EQ Mastery)Emotional Intelligence: 100+ Skills, Tips, Tricks & Techniques to Improve Interpersonal Connection, Control Your Emotions, Build Self Confidence & Find Long Lasting Success! by Kevin Moore
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A helpful guide...

Our natural state of being, as one with Soul, is a harmonious state of Love, in which the only feelings are of continuous peace and bliss. Therefore, if we are feeling any feeling other than peace and bliss, we have got out of balance somewhere. This is due to our conditioned and faulty thinking, which emerges as tolerations, needs and limiting beliefs. Using our Emotional Intelligence equips us to identify the message that Soul is sending us through these feelings, so we can rectify our thinking and thus move always towards Love.

Emotional Intelligence: 100+ Skills, Tips, Tricks & Techniques to Improve Interpersonal Connection, Control Your Emotions, Build Self Confidence & Find Long Lasting Success! (EQ Mastery) is a basic guide that will help people who are looking to improve their emotional intelligence.


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Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Redeye Fulda Cold

Redeye Fulda ColdRedeye Fulda Cold by Bill Fortin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable military thriller...

Author Bill Fortin weaves an enjoyable military thriller with intriguing twists and turns that will easily captivate the reader’s attention from the beginning. The author paints a dramatic and riveting cold war military adventure thriller in a very vivid and convincing way. In addition, the characters are drawn with great credibility and conviction. It’s a relatively fast-paced, funny and entertaining novel that will keep you engaged from the first page to the last.

I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. There were plenty of plot twists that I didn’t see coming and that added to the book’s mystique. When I stopped reading to work, I found myself wondering what happened in the book, and replaying parts of the novel in my head to see if I could figure more out. It has been a while since I enjoyed a book this much. It’s a first-class military thriller with perfect pacing. Not much is as it appears here, which is just the way fans of thriller and suspense will want it. It's a solid thriller that benefits substantially from a raft of better-than-average elements.

I’ll be looking forward to reading more from this series in the future. If you’re a fan of military adventure thrillers you'll enjoy this book.


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Monday, September 14, 2020

Nathaniel's Got the Blues

Nathaniel's Got the BluesNathaniel's Got the Blues by David L. Heaney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.” Proverb

We all like to read them at some stage, and many of us are so influenced by a good story that we adopt life changes to match. True stories and biographies are obviously the most inspirational, but there are also fictional stories that can be just as inspiring. And for me, Nathaniel’s Got The Blues by David L. Heaney is such a story.

More often than not children relate themselves with the characters of a good story. In such circumstances, reading fiction can help them to get inspiration from the characters. These stories often portray real life implications through anecdotes, and as such makes it easier for them to understand the complex aspects of life. Moreover, reading these stories at regular intervals can actually help them to develop a positive outlook towards life, which eventually proves beneficial for good character development.

Nathaniel’s Got The Blues by David L. Heaney is a superbly written and richly descriptive novel. The author reacquaints us with, Nathaniel, a rat who appeared in his first book, A Yorkie’s Tale: Lessons from a Life Well Lived. While that book was a quest in an attempt to learn how to live a good life - with the shocking discovery that life does not go on forever - they learned a lot on that journey; what was important and what was, perhaps, relatively unimportant. ‘Nathaniel, who is now old, is engaged in yet another existential crisis, wondering if there really is anything more to learn as he wanders rather aimlessly through the winter of his life.’

Captivating and commendable, this work had me immersed from the beginning. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are plenty of attention-grabbing moments in this page turner that will take the reader on a truly thought-provoking, reflective and inspirational journey!

I’ll be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future. A well-deserved five stars from me.

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Sunday, September 13, 2020

Melita by Gill D Anderson

MelitaMelita by Gill D. Anderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An emotionally charged and compelling read...

Melita by Gill D Anderson is a wonderfully written and richly descriptive novel with brilliantly drawn characters and settings. The threads of storytelling are expertly woven in this family life fiction that guarantees the attention of the reader. Skillfully constructed and set against the backdrop of a dysfunctional family relationship between a mother and daughter, this book will have you turning the pages from beginning to end. In addition, the characters are drawn with great credibility and conviction.

The book description gives a sneak preview: ‘As the only child of a single parent, and with little knowledge of her father or her paternal relatives, Emily struggles with identity issues throughout her childhood. Her mother’s past and family history have always been shrouded in secrecy… Moving from Scotland to Vancouver, Emily hoped to start a new life and reinvent herself, but she unintentionally becomes estranged from her mother, Melita, during the process… The tension between Melita and her daughter that has built throughout the course of Emily’s life finally comes to the surface. Slowly, the truth about Melita’s harsh childhood growing up in Malta unravels, revealing the inevitable impact it had on Emily’s upbringing… Will the dysfunctional familial patterns remain entrenched forever? Or can Melita and Emily find a way to reconcile with the past?’

This was a fascinating and captivating read that had me immersed from the beginning. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are plenty of emotional and compelling moments in this page-turner that will take the reader on a mesmerizing journey. The story unfurls in small acts, at first feeling slight to touch, then building in emotional substance. Into the spaces between the words, the author breathes a pulsating intensity that rolls like a motion picture camera. With an abundance of imagery in the writing style, it makes you feel like you are right there in the story, and that’s something I look for in a good book.

Melita had every element a good story should have. An intriguing plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. It’s one of those stories that come along once in a while that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader!

I’ll be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future. Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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Saturday, September 12, 2020

Sacred Senior Moments: “A Christian Poetic Devotional"

Sacred Senior Moments: A Christian Poetic DevotionalSacred Senior Moments: A Christian Poetic Devotional by Barbara Klein
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An inspiring collection of Christian centered poetry...

Poetry has lost a lot of its flavor in this new age. When time moves past the current age, the next generation are always influenced by the previous generations even if that influence manifests as a rejection of the values of those who've gone before. Sacred Senior Moments: A Christian Poetic Devotional by Barbara Klein, however, lacks the awkward self-consciousness of post-modernism even when it compliments it, and that is its beautiful defining element. An example of the poetry to be discovered here is as follows:

GROWING OLD
To write about old age
An interesting topic to some…
Am I growing old
or am I just old?
I’ve passed the three score and ten
yet I want to learn more, do more, become more
but my body has its limits.
I’m understanding Plato’s prison
I know I will escape someday
As that day grows nearer
I wonder how will I handle it.
That’s the big unanswered question
that’s only resolved
with the last breath.

Sacred Senior Moments: A Christian Poetic Devotional by Barbara Klein is an inspiring collection of Christian centered poetry. Along with a love of God, the poems express a richness of devotion and a passion for life. Primarily, though, they focus on the loving bond between the poet and God. Sacred Senior Moments will appeal to lovers of Christian poetry.

It is true there are those who have little appreciation for poetry, yet the poet's work has brought about significant societal debate and ultimate change in our world. Perhaps this is because the reader is invited to share the writer's perspective in an emotional way that allows a perspective to be heard with something other than ears. Highly recommended.

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Thursday, September 10, 2020

When I Wear My Mask: Encouraging Children to Protect The Elderly & Prevent Virus Spread While Still Having Fun

When I Wear My Mask: Encouraging Children to Protect The Elderly & Prevent Virus Spread While Still Having FunWhen I Wear My Mask: Encouraging Children to Protect The Elderly & Prevent Virus Spread While Still Having Fun by Tali Carmi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Encouraging young children to protect the elderly and prevent virus spread...

More often than not children relate themselves with the characters of a good story. In such circumstances, reading fiction can help them to get inspiration from the characters. These stories often portray real life implications through anecdotes, and as such makes it easier for them to understand the complex aspects of life. Moreover, reading these stories at regular intervals can actually help them to develop a positive outlook towards life, which eventually proves beneficial for good character development.

When I Wear My Mask by award-winning and best-selling author Tali Carmi is an entertaining and reassuring book that encourages young children to protect the elderly and prevent virus spread while still having fun. It’s a delightful and charming book for the younger reader. I loved not only the story, but also the amazing illustrations by Neda Fuchedzhieva. I thought the text and illustrations worked very well together.

Author Tali Carmi writes in a wonderfully simple rhyming style that will guarantee the attention of young minds. If you ever wanted to bond even more with your children or grandchildren, this would be a lovely story to share with them.

It seems to me that this book was created with a lot of love and joy and it’s clear that the author really enjoys creating such wonderful stories. Thank you for sharing with us the gift that you have obviously worked so hard to refine. We’ll be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future. A well-deserved five stars!

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Monday, September 7, 2020

Have you heard about Karen?

Have you heard about Karen?Have you heard about Karen? by Karin Aharon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A spellbinding, entertaining and humorous read...

Have you heard about Karen? by Israeli author Karin Aharon is a wonderfully written and richly descriptive novel with wonderfully drawn characters and settings. The author weaves a spellbinding, entertaining and humorous novel with plenty of twists and turns that kept me engaged from the first page to the last.

The book description gives a sneak preview: ‘Karen, Tara, and Rylie are friendly neighbors in a suburban town, who think they know each other well. Karen seems to have it all - an amazing job as a programmer, a handsome husband, and three beautiful daughters. But behind the scenes, things are not quite as they seem… Recently her neighbors have noticed that she has been keeping something from them. As time goes by, her secrets are pushing all her friends away… When Tara and Rylie notice a mysterious man entering Karen’s home, they are astounded as to why their friend would be having a secret affair behind the back of her perfect husband… Is Karen’s life heading towards a crisis? Or does everything look different from up close?’

I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. There were plenty of plot twists that I didn’t see coming and that added to the book’s mystique. When I stopped reading to work, I found myself wondering what happened in the book, and replaying parts of the story in my head to see if I could figure more out. It has been a while since I enjoyed a book this much. It’s a well written story of intertwined friendship with perfect pacing.

When we assume that the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence, we tend to look at things beyond ourselves, beyond where we are, beyond what we have, beyond who we are and beyond the time we are at now. This very enjoyable read is a reflection of that.

Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me.

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Sunday, September 6, 2020

The Woman in the Reflection by Avi Friede

The Woman in the ReflectionThe Woman in the Reflection by Avi Friede
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A very interesting and enjoyable read...

Salted with mystery and peppered with intrigue, The Woman in the Reflection by Avi Friede is a superbly written and richly descriptive novel with brilliantly drawn characters and settings. The threads of storytelling are expertly woven in this rather peculiar romance that had me turning the pages from beginning to end.

I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. There were plenty of plot twists that I didn’t see coming and that added to the book’s mystique. When I stopped reading to work, I found myself wondering what happened in the book, and replaying parts of the story in my head to see if I could figure more out. It has been a while since I enjoyed a book this much.

In many ways The Woman in the Reflection, a first novel written by Avi Friede, is a classic, albeit unusual romance. The author pays as much attention to his sentences as he does to his plots, shifting or consolidating meaning with the use of a single word. His writing is impeccably honed, full of juxtapositions and qualifications that help to create an almost prurient atmosphere.

Different from the writing style that I’d normally be used to, nevertheless, made this a very interesting and enjoyable read. I’ll be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future. Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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Saturday, September 5, 2020

Moraturi Lost: Paradisi Chronicles (Lost Mission Series Book 2)

Moraturi Lost: Paradisi Chronicles (Lost Mission Series Book 2)Moraturi Lost: Paradisi Chronicles by Marti Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A well-written sci-fi adventure with perfect pacing...

Forty-some years ago my uncle gave me a science fiction anthology. It was a thick red hardback that I read from cover to cover. It inspired a lifelong love of the genre. The stories in that book made me think outside the box. They filled me with awe for the imagination it took to write them. That book still remains in my collection today. The title is OMNIBUS OF SCIENCE FICTION, edited by Groff Conklin, a well-known and prolific editor of the genre. It was published in 1952, the Golden Age of Science Fiction. It’s a substantial volume, 562 pages, with 43 stories divided into sections relating to a common theme. Some stories are fun, some are thought-provoking, and some are adventurous. I love them all.

Moraturi Lost: Paradisi Chronicles (Lost Mission Series Book 2) by Marti Ward is a superb follow up to the first book in this series: Casindra Lost: Paradisi Chronicles (Lost Mission Series Book 1). It’s another wonderfully written and richly descriptive novel with brilliantly drawn settings and characters. The threads of storytelling are expertly woven in this sci-fi adventure that will guarantee the attention of the reader.

I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. There were plenty of plot twists that I didn’t see coming and that added to the book’s mystique. When I stopped reading to work, I found myself wondering what happened in the book, and replaying parts of the novel in my head to see if I could figure more out. It has been a while since I enjoyed a book this much. It’s a well-written sci-fi adventure with perfect pacing. Highly recommended and looking forward to the next instalment MORATURI RING, Book 3.

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The Pirate Princess and the Sirens' Song

The Pirate Princess and the Sirens' SongThe Pirate Princess and the Sirens' Song by Suzanne Lowe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A delightful book...

More often than not children relate themselves with the characters of a good story. In such circumstances, reading fiction can help them to get inspiration from the characters. These stories often portray real life implications through anecdotes, and as such makes it easier for them to understand the complex aspects of life. Moreover, reading these stories at regular intervals can actually help them to develop a positive outlook towards life, which eventually proves beneficial for good character development.

The Pirate Princess and the Sirens' Song by Suzanne Lowe is a delightful and charming book for the younger reader. This award-winning and best-selling author writes in a wonderful, simple and imaginative style that will guarantee the attention of young minds. If you ever wanted to bond even more with your children or grandchildren, this would be a lovely story to share with them. Highly recommended.

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Paradise Rising: A Teen Superhero Fantasy

Paradise Rising: A Teen Superhero FantasyParadise Rising: A Teen Superhero Fantasy by P.G. Shriver
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A well-crafted teen superhero fantasy...

Depending on who you ask, or what you read, YA literature falls somewhere between middle grade and adult literature and is typically known for its teen protagonist(s) going through a coming-of-age type journey. Paradise Rising: A Teen Superhero Fantasy (The Gifted Ones Book 1) by P.G. Shriver is a well-crafted teen and young adult sci-fi mystery.

It was a fascinating and captivating read that had me immersed from the beginning. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are plenty of attention-grabbing moments in this page turner that will take the reader on a truly spellbinding journey.

There is something very magical about reading fantasy fiction. It speaks to the very thread of my imagination, jolting it to life and transporting it on an exhilarating journey. This story did exactly that. Fans of the sci-fi fantasy genre will not be disappointed. I’ll be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future. Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me.

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The Run and Hide (The Brotherhood Chronicle Book 2)

The Run and Hide (The Brotherhood Chronicle, Volume 2)The Run and Hide by Tejas Desai
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A must-read that will keep you guessing...

The Run and Hide (The Brotherhood Chronicle Book 2) by Tejas Desai is a brilliant follow up to the first book in this series: The Brotherhood (The Brotherhood Chronicle Book 1). This is a wonderfully written and richly descriptive novel with brilliantly drawn characters and settings. The author weaves a well-crafted and compelling mystery that gives the reader a glimpse into the Asian criminal underworld. The story had every element a good story should have. A solid plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well-illustrated scenes that make you feel you are right there in the story. Highly recommended.

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My Eccentric Family by Norman L. Cantor

My Eccentric FamilyMy Eccentric Family by Norman L. Cantor
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A very enjoyable read that was hard to put down...

My Eccentric Family by Norman L. Cantor is an all-encompassing human dramatization of an extraordinary life. An eyewitness, and at other times a participant in some of the most noteworthy social and political movements of the twentieth century, makes this biography a book well worth reading. Looking at historical facts, the book brings a wealth of knowledge to the reader making this a brilliant and insightful read.

Writing memoirs is a unique way to cherish your past and present, with the future in mind. However, the author states that he always thought that writing memoirs was pretentious and self-indulgent. Then at age of 76 a strange phenomenon occurred. He finally overcame a psychological block and read his Communist father’s 900-page FBI file. That reading triggered numerous recollections of his ‘red diaper’ childhood. And when he casually recounted a few vignettes to friends and family, the universal reaction was wonderment and a strong curiosity to hear more about his upbringing.

This is ‘a rare journey with universal lessons that is simultaneously a deeply personal memoir and an incisive work of history. It was a very enjoyable and interesting book to read. Highly recommended.

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