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< Back Queen Code: The Book Laura Muirhead Mastery, personal responsibility, self-leadership, empowerment KMD Books Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In "Queen Code," Laura Muirhead empowers readers to rewrite their life narratives through personal policies and self-leadership, guiding them to embrace responsibility, resilience, and the transformative journey of self-discovery. In an era of endless digital noise and shifting social expectations, Laura Muirhead’s Queen Code arrives as a vital manual for the modern woman. Moving beyond the "surface-level" self-help tropes of bubble baths and face masks, Muirhead offers an accessible architecture for building a life of true agency and inner peace. At the heart of the book is the concept of Personal Policies. Muirhead argues that we often live by "default" rules inherited from family or society. By consciously drafting policies for self-care, health, finances, and even media consumption, the reader shifts from being a passenger in their life to being the sovereign ruler of it. Muirhead doesn’t just tell you what to change; she provides the how. Her signature four-step framework serves as the backbone of the book: Question: identifying the "victim stories" we tell ourselves; Investigate: looking at the root of our fears and family dynamics; Heal: utilizing the concept of sisu—the Finnish art of inner resilience—to process past traumas; and Grow: implementing the Queen Code Mastery Archetypes to navigate future challenges. One of the book’s most compelling sections deals with the dynamics of victimhood and villainy. Muirhead’s vulnerability in sharing her own "buried truths" allows the reader to examine their own unwritten family rules without judgment. Furthermore, her emphasis on The Power of Pausing offers a radical counter-narrative to the "hustle culture" prevalent today. She posits that by stepping back and trusting the universe, we allow for co-creation—a process where opportunities arise that we couldn't have planned for through sheer force of will. What makes “Queen Code” a unique addition to the self-help shelf is its dynamic nature. Unlike rigid dogmatic systems, these personal policies are designed to evolve as the reader grows. The concluding section uses a creative "fractured fairy tale" to bridge the gap between abstract concepts and real-life application, showing that "happily ever after" is an active choice, not a passive destination. “Queen Code” is a toolkit for self-leadership. It is ideal for the one who feels she is "doing everything right" but still feels out of control. If you are ready to stop being the supporting character in someone else’s story and start being the Queen of your own, this is your manifesto. Previous Next

< Back Labyrinth of Shadows: The Witch's Rebirth Part I Michaela Riley Fantasy, Paranormal; witchcraft, Merovingians, supernatural powers Harper Book Writers Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A young witch named Merona must use her powers to fight a demon, while uncovering her mystical lineage and the legacy of the Merovingians, and alter her people's destiny in a world where ancient magic clashes with Christianity. With historical backdrops and fantasy, “Labyrinth of Shadows: The Witch's Rebirth Part I” is a spellbinding journey into a world where ancient magic collides with the rise of Christianity. Set in the early fifth century, the story brings together the historical events of the Merovingian dynasty's rise with mythology and supernatural powers. The book kicks off with the Hun invasion, forcing the Sicambrian Franks, led by Merovech, to migrate. This turmoil sets the stage for a young witch's arrival, a figure whose ancient powers are said to challenge even the most powerful magical bloodlines. At the heart of the story are several fascinating characters: Merovech, the Frankish leader; the Witch, who holds a destiny-altering secret; and Clovis, a young boy destined for either greatness or destruction. As the story progresses, we are introduced to Merona, a baby whose birth signals an impending change. We follow her journey as she grows, hones her powers, and, with the guidance of Murdach and the Morrigan, prepares to face her greatest challenge. The conflict centers on Merona's struggle against the demon Armaeus, a powerful entity determined to thwart her. Their climactic battle is a true highlight of the book, as Merona draws on the elements, the labyrinth, and her unwavering will to defeat him. The resolution is satisfying, as Merona not only secures the fate of her people but also advocates for tolerance and acceptance among different faiths. With its world-building, complex characters, and blend of historical events with magical elements, this book is for anyone who loves epic fantasy and historical sagas. It's a tale of destiny, power, and the enduring legacy of ancient magic. Previous Next

< Back Georgia's No-Nonsense Nose Carla Crane Osborne curiosity, imagination, nature, exploration Gona's Publishing Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest When a basset hound named Georgia O’Keeffe embarks on whimsical adventures, she inspires her young owners to explore the beauty of art and nature through her no-nonsense perspective. In this lyrical children's story, an adorable basset hound named Georgia O'Keeffe embarks on a whimsical adventure across the farm grounds, using her unique "no-nonsense nose" to explore the world around her. Though she labels her observations as "nonsense" or a "nuisance," her journey inspires young readers to find beauty in nature and art. Georgia's adventure begins with a comical self-inspection of her long, floppy ears and tail, with humorous answers from her companions along the way. With Georgia's close encounter with an old sock, and her companions warn it'll make her stomach "rot," she just grumbles, "What nuisance. I just wanted to chew it up!” As she continues her exploration, experiencing beautiful butterflies and a scary patch of paint that follows her, Georgia dismisses them as nonsense and a nuisance. Brandon Dorman’s fluid and familiar illustrations are comforting, seamlessly moving Georgia from scene to scene with a sense of ease. The vibrant use of color and shape brings each small discovery to life, perfectly complementing Carla Crane Osborne's fun and engaging writing style. As the story closes, Georgia's world expands beyond her own paws. In the final and most profound moment, she encounters a horse so large she can't make out its entire being. The story concludes with a simple, mutual nose-touch of recognition, a touching end to a journey of curiosity. Georgia's No-Nonsense Nose is a charming tale that encourages children to look at their surroundings with a fresh perspective. It's a delightful reminder that sometimes the most beautiful and meaningful discoveries are made simply by following your own unique curiosity. Previous Next

< Back Clarity: When Everything Suddenly Becomes Crystal Clear Crystal Leonardi Memoir, Spirituality, Health, childhood cancer Bowerbird Publishing Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A mother's traumatic journey through her young son's brain cancer diagnosis and treatment reveals family resilience, the power of community support, and the enduring hope that emerges from unimaginable challenges. Crystal Leonardi’s memoir, "Clarity," is far more than a simple chronological account; it is a raw, deeply personal testament to a family’s fortitude as they navigate the devastating world of childhood brain cancer. Dedicated with profound admiration and love to all who fight, survive, and mourn the loss that comes with pediatric cancer, this book centers on the author's young son, Sebastian, who was diagnosed with brain cancer at the tender age of two. "Clarity" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the true impact of this disease and the incredible strength it demands. The start is the trauma of the initial diagnosis, marking the beginning of a relentless, overwhelming journey. Leonardi structures the book to reflect the rollercoaster nature of their reality, detailing the immediate move from Far North Queensland to Brisbane to access critical medical care. What makes the book particularly compelling is the inclusion of updates—messages sent by Leonardi and her husband, Sam, to their network. These excerpts provide unfiltered glimpses into Sebastian's medical procedures, capturing the dizzying pendulum swing between desperate fear and fleeting moments of hope and relief. This structural choice lends an immediate, visceral honesty to the storytelling. While focused on Sebastian's fight, Leonardi broadens the scope to examine the ripple effects of a cancer diagnosis. She is unflinching in discussing the strain on family dynamics, the monumental challenge of maintaining a sense of normalcy for Sebastian’s siblings, and the constant emotional and logistical juggling required of the parents. Here, the memoir shines a light on the crucial support systems, celebrating the tireless dedication of medical professionals and the invaluable haven provided by the Ronald McDonald House. At its heart, "Clarity" is built on the indomitable themes of positivity and resilience. Leonardi champions the power of love and community support. Her writing style ensures the story reaches a broad audience, offering both emotional solace and practical insight for other families facing similar crises. By detailing the medical complexities alongside the emotional toll, Leonardi achieves a rare level of raw honesty that makes the memoir deeply insightful and moving. Ultimately, "Clarity" is a book that transcends the genre of medical memoir. It captures the essence of love, hope, and unwavering parental determination. It is recommended not only for those connected to the world of childhood cancer but for anyone who needs a powerful reminder of the strength found in adversity. Previous Next

< Back Melina's Christmas Tree Irene Sardanis Childrens: Holiday Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest With no tree in her home, and just a dollar from her widowed mother, Melina goes out on Christmas eve to find one. She faces the cold night and many obstacles, but she doesn't give up. With perseverance and an unexpected miracle, Melina gets her very special tree. “Melina’s Christmas Tree” by Irene Sardanis, Ph.D is an aspirational read, and will inspire young ones. Young Melina’s hope was that her mother had a dollar to buy a Christmas tree. The fact is her mother had to scrounge together four quarters from the coin jar. The child’s nativity and tenacity of going to the many local retailers: the baker, the produce store, the deli, to find a Christmas tree is also very aspirational. With many visits and an overwhelming perseverance, it’s actually through an unexpected miracle that Melina gets a very special tree. Well-paced children's tale with clean and suitable text and attractive interior illustrations. Has a classic 'quest' narrative, where Melina's determination to find a Christmas tree brings forth a heartwarming resolution. Strongly recommended to instill hope and faith in children. A perfect addition to your home or school library collection. Previous Next

< Back THE TILTED PALACE: Weeds of Misfortune Paul Kluge Vietnam War, survival, camaraderie, sacrifice, redemption Independently published Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A haunted Vietnam War veteran finds unexpected companionship and a chance for redemption when a stray dog and a determined pastor disrupt his plans for solitude and self-destruction. Paul Kluge's The Tilted Palace: Weeds of Misfortune is an examination of the scars left by history on the individual soul. Set against the backdrop of Groton, Massachusetts, in 1990, the narrative primarily follows Jimmy Ray Crandall, a retired Army veteran. While the calendar marks fifteen years since the official end of the Vietnam War, for Jimmy Ray, the conflict remains a consuming, active presence, a private war fought daily in the hollow confines of his solitude. This book is tailored for readers interested in the psychological struggles of veterans. Kluge employs an introspective style that immerses the reader in Jimmy Ray’s internal landscape, making his lingering bitterness and quiet despair palpable. The Groton setting, a seemingly peaceful refuge, serves as an ironic contrast to the inner turmoil of its inhabitant, amplifying the veteran's sense of being marooned. The novel has a slow introduction of hope into a life characterized by stasis. Jimmy Ray’s isolation, fueled by the burden of war memories and deep-seated regrets, is abruptly interrupted on the war’s anniversary by the almost miraculous arrival of two entities: a stray dog and Trinity Hathaway, an ordained pastor. This unexpected trio forms the core dynamic of the story. The dog offers unconditional, silent companionship, while Trinity provides the necessary foil—a mirror and a challenge to Jimmy Ray’s emotional withdrawal. The core conflict is the veteran’s struggle against the emotional scars of his service. His interactions with Trinity and the stray dog are the first tentative steps away from the abyss. The narrative weaves between 1990s Massachusetts and visceral flashbacks to South Vietnam in the early 1960s. It is in these memories that we encounter Chang, a South Vietnamese villager whose parallel narrative of survival amidst political chaos and armed conflict deepens the theme. Chang's story prevents the narrative from becoming solely focused on the American experience, highlighting the universal toll of the war on all individuals caught in its wake. The slow, rough conversations between Jimmy Ray and Trinity are the heart of the novel. They expose his deep-seated anger and despair, but crucially, they also hint at the possibility of emotional healing. The narrative reaches its major turning points as Jimmy Ray moves toward the difficult decision to seek meaning in his life again, a decision directly fostered by Trinity’s unwavering, yet fragile, support. The true climax is internal, occurring when Jimmy Ray contemplates confronting his past directly. The stakes are raised as he must decide whether to return to Vietnam, a path of action encouraged by Trinity’s work with the NGO Save the Children. This choice serves as the breaking point, a necessary action to shatter the spell of his haunting memories. The ending is not a simple tying of ribbons but a contemplation of the future. Jimmy Ray is left with a sense of hope and the possibility of finding peace, not through forgetting, but through meaningful action. Trinity, equally transformed by their shared experience, embarks on her own journey of helping others. The Tilted Palace concludes by reflecting on the enduring effects of the Vietnam War on its veterans and asserts the importance of finding renewed purpose and connection in the aftermath of conflict. Kluge offers a necessary narrative about the possibility of light after darkness. Previous Next

< Back The Circus and the Atom Joseph Howse Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Kiev, family, friendship Nummist Media Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In the midst of the USSR's turbulent thaw, a drama student, a taxi driver, and an exile navigate personal dilemmas and political unrest in Kiev as they prepare for a New Year celebration that intertwines their fates and reveals the resilience of family and friendship. "The Circus and the Atom" is a riveting and deeply resonant work of historical fiction that trades the sprawling landscape of its predecessor for the claustrophobic tension of a single, pivotal moment in time. Set in Kiev on the eve of 1989, Joseph Howse utilizes the dying days of the Soviet Union to construct a high-stakes, character-driven drama infused with a palpable sense of political noir. This novel is positioned for readers who appreciate nuanced historical narratives, especially those focused on the socio-political turmoil of the late 1980s USSR. Rather than painting the Soviet collapse with broad strokes, Howse excels at the granular level, illustrating the decay of a superpower through the stress fractures in the lives of ordinary, yet extraordinary, people. The decision to set the story over the New Year of 1988/89 in Kiev lends the narrative a rich, pressurized atmosphere. The promise of the New Year—a universal symbol of renewal—contrasts sharply with the political splintering of the USSR, creating a profound undercurrent of uncertainty. This tension is heightened by the described noir atmosphere. This is not just historical fiction; it's a cold, tense exploration of moral ambiguity in a society losing its ideological foundation. The lingering specter of the Chernobyl disaster and the daily realities of an entire civilization thawing from decades of rigid rule provide a magnificent, haunting backdrop for the personal dramas unfolding. We follow the familiar ensemble from the first book,”The Girl in the Water,” now grappling with new and heavier responsibilities. Nadia, now in her third term as a Performing Arts student, grounds the emotional heart of the story; her choice to visit Kiev underscores the central theme of family and commitment despite political volatility. The narrative shines brightest when exploring the interconnected struggles of the secondary characters: Ida, the resilient taxi driver, becomes the street-level lens into the daily chaos and necessary survival of the common citizen. Most intriguing is Giorgi, Nastya’s detective husband. His investigation into a bombing incident serves as the engine for the "noir" element, forcing him to navigate the ethically complex intersection of personal loyalty and duty within a politically corrupt system. His haunted past adds a compelling layer of psychological depth to the political thriller framework. The pacing builds toward the New Year celebrations, a resolution that is less about tying up every plot thread and more about capturing the spirit of hope and resilience. The novel’s true strength lies in its commitment to character and connection, somewhat reminiscent of Jennifer Coburn's "The Girls of the Glimmer Factory." The powerful communication between Nadia, her sister Nastya, and Ida emphasizes that even in times of grand civil upheaval, the human connection—friendship and family—remains the most powerful anchor. "The Circus and the Atom" leaves a lasting impact by not offering easy answers, but instead concluding with a sense of anticipation for the future. It powerfully reminds us that even when civil structures crumble, the human spirit endures, perpetually looking forward to the possibilities of the next day. This book is unreservedly recommended for anyone seeking literary depth in a period piece defined by high-stakes personal drama. Previous Next

< Back Hive (Madders of Time: Book One) D. L. Orton Science Fiction / Thriller Rocky Mountain Press Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest "Hive" marks the beginning of D. L. Orton's ambitious new science fiction saga, "Madders of Time." Orton is widely recognized for her acclaimed "Between Two Evils" series. D. L. Orton, an acclaimed author known for her award-winning "Between Two Evils" series, launches a new, ambitious science fiction saga with "Hive," the inaugural installment of "Madders of Time." Published in 2025, this novel plunges readers into a gripping, high-stakes narrative that masterfully blends dystopian survival, intricate time travel, and a deeply emotional love story. The premise of "Hive" is compelling: humanity is on the brink of extinction. The last survivors cling to life within Eden-17, a crumbling biodome besieged by rising seas and relentless microdrones. Among them are Isabel, a brilliant but dying scientist, and Diego, the man she loves. Their desperate hope rests on a monumental discovery: a long-lost time bridge. With their world literally falling apart, Isabel makes the ultimate sacrifice, sending Diego 35 years into the past. His mission? To avert the global catastrophe that led to their bleak present, even if it means confronting a younger version of Isabel and navigating a past fraught with forgotten secrets and powerful forces determined to control the future. Orton excels at crafting a richly imagined, albeit grim, dystopian future that feels both terrifying and plausible. The world-building is detailed, painting a vivid picture of humanity's last stand. Beyond the technological marvels like the time bridge and the menacing microdrones, the inclusion of "Madders," an enigmatic AI built from the memories of a genius physicist, adds a fascinating layer of scientific intrigue and even a touch of dark humor. At its heart, "Hive" is a poignant love story between Isabel and Diego. Their relationship forms the emotional core, driving the narrative with its themes of profound sacrifice and unwavering resilience. Orton skillfully explores the weight of their choices and the personal toll of attempting to rewrite destiny. The philosophical questions surrounding time, regret, and redemption are woven seamlessly into the thrilling action sequences, ensuring the story is as thought-provoking as it is exciting. While the scientific concepts, including alternate timelines and quantum physics, are complex, Orton presents them in an accessible manner, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves without getting bogged down in jargon. The book's strong opening and the consistent increase in stakes keeps readers engaged. The end leads to a satisfying, if emotionally charged, conclusion. The characters, particularly Isabel and Diego, feel real and relatable, and the supporting cast, such as the physicist Matt Hudson, adds depth and occasional levity. It's worth noting that "Hive" connects to Orton's previous "Between Two Evils" series in a multiversal way, but it stands perfectly well as a standalone entry point. "Hive" is a powerful and emotionally charged science fiction thriller that will resonate with fans of dystopian fiction, time-travel narratives, and character-driven stories. D. L. Orton delivers a compelling tale of defiance, destiny, and the profound cost of fighting for a second chance. Prepare to be captivated by this ambitious and unforgettable start to the "Madders of Time" series. Previous Next

< Back House of Jars Hester L. Furey Poetry Frayed Edge Press Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Rife with revolutions and references, Hester L. Furey’s House of Jars stares unflinchingly into the scrying pool of post-modernist exploration. Reviewed by Monica Robinson. Rife with revolutions and references, Hester L. Furey’s "House of Jars" stares unflinchingly into the scrying pool of post-modernist exploration. Close examination reveals a time-shy collection that cobbles together unlikely subjects to deliriously incredible effect. As a student of literature looking towards a career as an archivist myself, it’s exciting to see Furey’s “archivally based academic work in literary history” (Furey, v) mesh with poetry in what I feel is an incredibly successful effort to “preserve overlooked nuances of 20th century human experience.” (vi) I must admit that when I encountered this text for the first time, I was flung far out of my realm. "House of Jars" is brilliant in so many ways, and though I have long been an intimate friend of poetry, I was at first daunted by the intellectual challenges that this work presented. The opportunity to explore this work served doubly as another step forward along my academic journey, and once I learned to speak its language, I found House of Jars to be a delightfully rewarding challenge, to which I hope I rose valiantly. How fitting, then, that I discovered something of myself between the clever twists and turns of these poems. As Furey has broken her work into three distinct sequences of poems unified as “a yogic journey, an examination of attachments” (vi), it seems only fair that I dissect them here in equal fashion. Furey says of this work: The book dwells on the experience of not knowing what is real, of living a long time with a version of reality that is not easy to verify but still occupies a lot of psychic real estate. The first narrative follows the journey of a character called Skeleton Woman through a mental health crisis, based loosely on the author’s experiences throughout menopause. Though a general collapse of reality is a unifying theme across this work, it presents here in the shared experiences of a woman discarded by society; one of many. Brimming with mothers and matriarchs, this section tells of neuroses I find all too familiar: phantom bugs, fearful contamination, loss of stories, loss of time. The narrator also heralds many of my idols across history here: Tzipporah, Alice B. Toklas, Virginia Woolf, Zora Neale Hurston—each seeking to reclaim themselves or else to simply understand their internal warfare in an external whirlwind of destruction. This is not dissimilar, I feel, to the impenetrable now, and therefore strings a lifeline between our modern world and their own. The inclusion and characterization of these women feels necessary to achieve the cross-cultural examination that the narrator appears to hope for, and the choir of these women’s voices collectively compose the singular voice of the Skeleton Woman. I would be remiss not to mention the titular poem, “House of Jars”, the steadfast beating heart of this strand of storytelling. These opening lines hold, for me, a simple and unflinching truth: the prison of home and of the body itself—safe from the outside and yet held captive in a drudgery of repetition. I delight, too, in the phrase “mycelium wars” and its many connotations; the thought of mysterious growth in dark places. Home from the mycelium wars, I strip, bathe, wash every conceivable surface. My life fits between the washer and the dryer. I know I can’t go on like this. Marching right along, then, this collection carries into its second thematic distinction the narrative of the Skeleton Woman and her struggles with societal restrictions and mental illness, bringing her individual experiences into a broader scope. The passage of time invites a host of medical malpractice, dim history, intertwining journeys, a search for self amid a broken empire. Characterized by storms, floods, famines, and again, infestations, this thread paves the way for the heart of the collection. Where the first section rolled out the doormat, this section crawls beneath your skin and nests there. Not here to save a dying culture— no one could do that, and truth be told, even she was a miner of sorts— here to find her own lost country, become one of the gods, answer her own prayer. It makes sense that the starting seed of this narrative was an attempt to draw parallels between “modernists who had insect-born illnesses or mental health crises provoked by insect encounters” (vi). In fact, the language from poem to poem throughout this second narrative evokes the cloying sensation of infestation, the words as visceral as they are rife with meaning. Moreover, the literary and contextual connections made here ring undoubtedly true, though the interrogation or even mere existence of them may never once have crossed the reader’s mind until now—they too, lingering thoughts, climb beneath the skin. The bulk of this collection lies in the third and final narrative, that of “Conjuring Moses” and invoking the gods of old alongside familiar characters of the new age. Furey describes this section as being “the center of the book” (vi), and I must wholeheartedly agree. The previously explored struggles reach a breaking point here, as the narrator brings all that she has written before into the light of centuries worth of study and answer-seeking, at the heart of which is the integral figure, Moses. Moses, at the core of the Abrahamic religions and an influential figure in many others, is defined here as a question being studied and meditated upon for many centuries—studied, even, by the very same modernists and Skeleton Women introduced to us throughout other parts of the collection. All of it connects and eventually coalesces in not only the existence but the legacy of Moses and what that has meant throughout the collective lived experiences of humanity. The work finds its closure here, but questions of morality and memory remain for the reader to ponder alone. In my opinion, the narrator’s inclusion of so many recognizable (or slightly less than) figures is integral to this collection. Though poetic in nature, the narrative remains—the stories woven and warped of names we understand and figures we have missed our chance to meet contextualize the collection as a distinct reworking of history beneath the hands of an archivist seeking meaning, seeking patterns, seeking, most of all, to understand the story for herself. Though I am remiss to compare one poet to the next, it would be negligent of me not to mention this collection’s strong conversation with the winding works of Stein or Ginsberg—culturally relevant, historically conscious, emotionally and intellectually curious. My final comments must caution that this is not for the casual reader. The skillfully dense layers upon layers of references, knowledge, and language demand that you give your soul entirely to the dissection of this work, if only for a brief time. Yet I must also tell you that this sacrifice is not without reward. This is among those collections that shock, startle, and otherwise coerce your worldview into a new and at the same time strikingly familiar existence for which I believe you will be grateful, should you make the time. About the reviewer: Monica Robinson is a Philadelphia based poet, author, artist, and occasional bookseller and reviewer. She is the author of Exit Wounds, EARTH IS FULL; GO BACK HOME, and to rule the desert, and has been published by Mookychick Mag, Ghost Orchid Press, and the NoSleep Podcast. Previous Next

< Back Ghosts of the Past: The Search For A Lost WWII Art Collection Worth Killing For Mark Downer Thriller, Historical Fiction, treasure, artwork, World War II, mystery, adventure Old Stone Press Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a race against time, a young man uncovers a hidden treasure linked to his late uncle's secret past as a Luftwaffe pilot, only to find himself pursued by dangerous adversaries intent on claiming the stolen artwork for themselves. Mark Downer's Ghosts of the Past is a high-octane historical thriller that splices the dark secrets of World War II with a modern-day international treasure hunt. It’s a compelling read perfect for anyone who enjoys the blend of historical detail, globe-trotting adventure, and complex espionage, evoking the spirit of classic thrillers centered on Nazi loot. The narrative is built on a fantastic hook: the final, cryptic crash of Major Max Hignite’s Luftwaffe transport in the Swiss Alps, which wasn't carrying military cargo, but a priceless collection of artwork stolen under the authority of Hermann Goering. This single event in 1945 casts a chilling, deadly shadow decades later. In 2001, when protagonist Matt Ferguson inherits his great uncle Max’s mysterious legacy, the pace shifts into high gear. What begins as a simple discovery—a hidden safe, military gear, and a list of stolen art—quickly explodes into a life-or-death scenario. Ferguson, an ordinary American, is plunged into the underworld with the help of the assistant curator, Courtney Lewis. Their partnership is the emotional core of the novel, navigating ups and downs of trust as they are hunted by multiple parties. Downer populates the world with compelling antagonists, from the wealthy and ruthless art collector Guillermo Rocca, who deploys his associate Juan to track every move, to the mysterious Bolivar. The stakes are underscored by a wave of violence, including break-ins and the attack on Dr. Karl, lending immediate credence to the book’s subtitle: this collection is, indeed, worth killing for. The plot shines when Ferguson and Lewis arrive in the treacherous Swiss mountains. The author expertly balances the thrill of the treasure hunt—the discovery of the plane and the crates—with escalating danger. The tension builds to a breathless climax involving a multi-party shootout, highlighting the novel's fast-paced commitment to action. Adding a strong layer of structure and investigative realism are Detective Toby Shutt and Interpol expert Charles Pernod. Their work to connect the dots between the domestic murders and the international art conspiracy provides a necessary anchor against the chaos of the treasure seekers, keeping the plot grounded even as the action flies. The conclusion is satisfying, wrapping up the physical danger with a CIA takeover, yet preserving the personal mystery with Ferguson’s secret retention of the Gauguin painting. This final twist cements the complex character dynamics and leaves the protagonists—and the reader—with a rich blend of history saved and a personal fortune secured. Ghosts of the Past is a meticulously plotted and engaging adventure. It successfully intertwines themes of historical intrigue, adventure, espionage, and character dynamics across different eras and continents. It is a captivating reading experience that promises to keep fans of wartime mystery and contemporary thrillers turning pages. A must-read for fans of authors like Steve Berry or Daniel Silva. Previous Next

< Back My Lucky Star Cheryl Olsten Destiny, courage, magic, adventure, dreams, perseverance Fleecydale Press Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a magical journey through the night sky, a young girl and her undersized horse, Lafitte, defy the odds to compete in a prestigious Derby, discovering the true meaning of courage, friendship, and following one's dreams. A Celestial Journey of Heart, Hooves, and Home In a world that often measures worth by stature, Cheryl Olsten's "My Lucky Star” offers a shimmering reminder that greatness is a matter of spirit, not size. This sequel to “Big Wishes for Little Feat” successfully bridges the gap between a grounded contemporary setting and a whimsical, star-strewn fantasy. In a dream, the two "outsiders" meet: Lafitte, a small horse with a grand pedigree who is constantly overlooked, and Ella, a young American girl navigating the loneliness of her new life in Belgium with her Aunt Anastasia. When Ella renames the horse "Little Feat," their bond becomes a catalyst for the extraordinary. Olsten handles the emotional weight of Ella’s situation—the financial struggles of her parents and her feelings of displacement—by channeling those heavy emotions into a soaring celestial adventure. The transition from the stables of Belgium to the literal constellations of the night sky feels seamless, turning the Pegasus myth into a tangible guide for a girl in need of a miracle. The book hits its stride during the rising action, where the duo explores the cosmos. However, the stakes are brought back to earth with a gripping sequence. The plot shifts from a dreamlike exploration to a high-stakes rescue mission when Little Feat is captured. This moment provides the necessary tension to keep young readers engaged, proving that the bond between the two is strong enough to withstand both celestial comets and earthly villains. The climax at the Derby is a classic "underdog" triumph. It isn't just about winning a ribbon; it’s about Ella and Little Feat proving their worth to the world and, more importantly, to Ella’s parents. The resolution is moving, as it avoids the trope of Ella simply "going home," it celebrates a new kind of family structure and the importance of allowing a child to pursue their passion where they feel most alive. The "unbreakable bond" and resilience of the two is the magic that fuels their flight and success. Most impressive is illustrator Paolo D’altan’s use of rich jewel tones—deep midnight blues, shimmering golds, and velvet purples—to create a celestial atmosphere. The swirling cosmos gives the story a "tangible" sense of magic and reminiscent of classical Disney-esque charm. “My Lucky Star” is for children aged 4–9, especially those who find solace in animals. It is a visual and emotional fable that teaches us that even when we are far from home, we can find our way by following the "lucky stars" in our own lives. Previous Next

< Back The Legend of Chris Moose Allen Northcutt Childrens: Holiday Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest This picture book introduces eleven animal characters in rhyme as they join Ugly on a snowy trip through the woods to Momma and Poppa Bears’ house. There, a Christmas eve party is made very special when Ugly gives unselfishly of himself to overcome a forgotten Christmas tree. Author Allen Northcutt’s fun-filled holiday tale weaves a whimsical “ugly duckling” story of animal friends that love an amiable but tattered moose whose name is “Ugly”. Published by Old Stone Press, Allen Northcutt’s book “The Legend of Chris Moose” points out that “we all have value to our family and friends.” This picture book introduces eleven animal characters in rhyme as they join Ugly on a snowy trip through the woods to Momma and Poppa Bears’ house. There, a Christmas eve party is made very special when Ugly gives unselfishly of himself to overcome a forgotten Christmas tree. The story addresses everyday issues of how “Ugly” names are hurtful and it is not nice to exclude someone from a group because they are different. In the end the animals embrace Ugly as part of their group and change his name to Chris Moose, because it sounds so much like Christmas and is what his spirit is all about. This Christmas story is so touching and Northcutt drove it home with the thought that no matter who you are, if you search hard enough, you will find something that you can give of yourself. What an incredible mantra to live by. Giving value, being valued, and making something greater of yourself to those around you is something I can’t think could be a better purpose of living. This incredible lesson lands this book at the top of the heap in terms of teaching each one of us that we have value, and giving value to those around us, strikes to the core of our existence. Well-illustrated, and solidly constructed, this book will last through many reads and is guaranteed to be an annual favorite read during the Christmas Holiday Season. Christie Morris’ captivating and humorous illustrations add magic to this soon-to-be-classic Christmas story. Previous Next