< 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

< Back Once Upon a Tile: Suzi's Shower & Her Superpower Laura Muirhead Childrens, making new friends Laura Muirhead Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Tackling a universal childhood experience—moving and making new friends—"Once Upon a Tile: Suzi's Shower & Her Superpower" blends it with a unique, imaginative premise. This story captures the anxieties and wonders of childhood through the eyes of Suzi, a young girl navigating a new home and new friendships. The concept of seeing images in shower tiles is imaginative and engaging. It’s a whimsical idea that children will grasp and likely relate to, sparking their own curiosity about what they might see in everyday objects. Suzi's journey from nervousness to discovery, and then to self-doubt and ultimately self-acceptance, is well-paced and emotionally resonant. The initial reactions of her parents, who are a bit dismissive but ultimately come around, are realistic and provide a gentle push for Suzi to prove herself. The gradual revelation of her unique "superpower" and the subsequent bullying she experiences will resonate with many children who have felt different or misunderstood. The resolution, where Suzi bravely shares her gift and is celebrated for it, delivers a powerful and much-needed message about embracing individuality and the "superpowers" within us all. The teacher's role in validating Suzi's talent and encouraging the other students to find their own "powers" is a fantastic way to broaden the story's message beyond just Suzi. Previous Next

< Back A Sometimes Paradise: Reflections on Life in a Wyoming Ranch Family Mark E. Miller Western Nonfiction Sandra Jonas Publishing Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A Sometimes Paradise is a poignant memoir that chronicles Mark E. Miller's life growing up on the I Lazy D Ranch in Wyoming, exploring the deep connections between family, nature, and the enduring spirit of ranching amidst the challenges of modernization and loss. "A Sometimes Paradise" is a memoir by Mark E. Miller that reflects on his life growing up on the I Lazy D Ranch in Carbon County, Wyoming. A poignant and closely observed narrative captures the essence of ranch life and the deep connection to nature, animals, and family. The memoir is structured around various aspects of ranching, livestock, people, culture, and family archaeology, providing a comprehensive look at the author's experiences and the history of his family. Previous Next

< Back Welcome to the NIC Zoo Paige Pedroli NICU, hope, healing, journey, uniqueness, inspiration Self-published Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a heartwarming journey through the NIC-Zoo, a collection of animal babies learns that every unique life is worth the wait as they grow stronger and prepare to soar into their new beginnings. "Welcome to the NICU-Zoo" is a tender and necessary children’s board book by Paige Pedroli, inspired by her own family’s experience as a two-time NICU mom. This heartwarming story re-imagines the often intimidating environment of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit as a cozy, temporary haven for animal babies, the "NIC-Zoo," providing a message of hope and understanding for both children and their parents. The story centers on various baby animals who hatch or are born early and require specialized care. Instead of a sterile hospital, they are admitted to the brightly envisioned NIC-Zoo, colorfully illustrated by Elena Hernandez, a nurturing place where dedicated caring nurses help them grow strong. The rhyming narrative follows the gradual progression of time, patiently detailing how each unique baby receives individualized care. The book beautifully addresses the need for patience during recovery, a reality many NICU families face. The tone is consistently gentle and suitable for bedtime reading, making complex emotions accessible. The book is ideally suited for a child reader demographic of ages 4–8, though its primary audience extends beyond that to include NICU siblings and the parents reading to their babies. For an older sibling, the NIC-Zoo framework provides a concrete, non-scary metaphor for the hospital, helping them understand why their new brother or sister can't come home yet. The narrative progression is reassuring and cyclical. The climax arrives not in drama, but in joyful readiness: when the babies are finally healthy, they fly or hop off to their own home, carrying the NIC-Zoo as a cherished memory of the care they received. Key illustrated scenes, such as the initial early arrival and the final departure, will undoubtedly resonate deeply with families who have lived this journey. "Welcome to the NICU-Zoo" is more than just a sweet story; it is a therapeutic resource wrapped in a comforting tale. By transforming a challenging medical setting into an imaginative, safe space, Paige Pedroli validates the feelings of parents while providing a hopeful narrative for children. This book is a valuable addition to any family’s library, particularly those seeking comfort and understanding during or after a NICU stay. Previous Next

< Back The Girl in the Water Joseph Howse adolescence, sisters, family, friendship, Soviet Union, change, struggle Nummist Media Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In the shadow of the Soviet Union's tumultuous 1980s, two sisters, Nadia and Nastya, grapple with the complexities of adolescence, family ties, and the haunting legacy of their past as they navigate love, loss, and the search for identity amidst historical upheaval. “The Girl in the Water” is a deeply moving and meticulously crafted work of literary fiction that takes readers into the often-unseen domestic world of the Soviet Union in the 1980s. Joseph Howse uses the tumultuous backdrop of political and social decay—spanning from the Baltic regions to the bustling, yet challenging, streets of Odessa and Tallinn—as a canvas for an intimate portrait of sisterhood, resilience, and the painful process of growing up. The novel centers on the Mikhailovna sisters, Nadia, the scholar, and Nastya, the artist, whose lives, along with their close friends Ida and Johnny, initially find stability in a close-knit group. The early narrative beautifully captures the bittersweet end of a carefree adolescence, disrupted first by Ida’s unsettling behavior at a summer retreat. This early fragility quickly gives way to significant upheaval as the family relocates to Odessa, a turning point that fractures their original circle. Howse excels at demonstrating how personal struggles are inextricably linked to the Soviet reality. In Odessa, the girls face institutional violence and the complexities of adult relationships, notably with the arrival of detective Giorgi. His intrusive interest in Nadia, creating domestic friction and distrust, forces the sisters to begin navigating a world defined by suspicion and hidden intentions. This leads to one of the book's most poignant sections: Nadia’s departure to live with her grandmother in Tallinn. In Tallinn, Nadia transforms from a protected teenager into a capable young woman. As she manages her education and increased caregiving duties for her ailing Gramma, the narrative broadens its scope to touch upon deeply entrenched historical scars. The eventual revelation regarding her grandfather’s fate, bringing closure to Gramma, is handled with emotional gravity, grounding the personal story within the era’s political consequences. Perhaps the most gripping part of the novel is the determined search for Ida, who has been confined to a Soviet psychiatric hospital. This harrowing sequence highlights the systemic cruelty and indifference of the era, contrasting sharply with the enduring strength of familial love. Nadia and Gramma’s success in securing Ida's release is not just a plot victory, but a testament to the core theme of perseverance. The novel wraps up by bringing Nadia and Ida together in a secluded cottage, offering a moment of serene reflection and earned hope amidst the surrounding harshness, perfectly symbolized by Ida’s nurturing care for the kitten Tentser II of the Cosmos. “The Girl in the Water” is ideal for readers who seek more than just a history lesson; it is for those who crave character-driven narratives set against significant world events. Howse’s prose is richly detailed, making the locations and the emotional weight of the Mikhailovna family palpably real. The writing style is similar to “Lessons: A novel” by Ian McEwan. It is a powerful exploration of the enduring bonds of family and friendship, demonstrating that resilience is often found in the quiet, day-to-day acts of managing life, even when facing institutional adversity and profound personal change. Previous Next

< Back Roglins Anna Spencer Picture Books-Ages 4-8 Pegasus Nightingale Books Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest The writing is rhythmic and whimsical, engaging young readers with light-hearted language. The use of rhyme adds to the playful tone. Each poem maintains a lively pace suitable for children, ensuring the narrative doesn't drag. Anna Spencer's debut children's book, "Roglins," introduces readers to a whimsical world of tiny creatures hidden in the grass. These unique and charming beings are brought to life through Spencer's rhyming text and captivating illustrations. The book delves into the Roglins' daily lives, showcasing their playful antics and simple joys. With its rhythmic text and imaginative artwork, "Roglins" offers a delightful reading experience for young children, sparking their curiosity and imagination. The Roglins themselves are inventive and imaginative characters. Each one has distinctive features and personalities, making them endearing and memorable. The book's imaginative world and quirky characters create a truly captivating reading experience. Spencer's writing is rhythmic and whimsical, engaging young readers with light-hearted language and rhyme. Each poem maintains a lively pace, ensuring the narrative flows smoothly. While Spencer has a history of selling her artwork internationally, she found her true passion in creating children's books. "Roglins" marks the culmination of her artistic journey, showcasing her talent for storytelling and world-building. The vast variety of characters in your story mean readers will fall in love with at least one of your Roglins. Do you find yourself connecting with one in particular? I think each one has a part of me. And in my rhymes, it is all about happy endings. In Hidden Treasure, for example the story is all about exploration. There are times in life when we need to leave everything behind to start a new chapter. If we don’t take that step, we risk staying stuck in the same place. So, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone —sometimes, taking a different path can lead to incredible opportunities. In Longing, the story focuses on helping others and making a meaningful change in someone's life. In this example, the narrator builds a glider to help a little Roglin soar and experience flight. Once again, the theme centers on a heartwarming, happy ending. Some of the poems are all about fun, like Wasp Whisperer, Creepy Crawlies, and Roglin the Knight. These poems are filled with amusing characters, offering a delightful escape into a world of imagination and joy. To read the full interview with Pegasus Publishers, please see the link: https://pegasuspublishers.com/blog/post/a-world-of-imagination-and-joy-an-interview-with-anna-spencer/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHQ6cZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHd9WTU2Xm63rRoqIJ6_vrN3XsgL17arkUb6BAftkpBczWuwR18BVEO4x3A_aem_s22aCMSOFDU9apywchYIGw Previous Next

< Back COLORSCAPES Lee Woodman colors, poetry, artistic inspiration, cultural significance, nature, spirituality, historical Shanti Arts Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In "Colorscapes," Lee Woodman weaves a vibrant tapestry of poetry that explores the emotional and historical significance of colors through personal reflections and artistic inspirations. “Colorscapes,” published by Shanti Arts Publishing, is the sixth volume in Lee Woodman’s celebrated "Scapes" series, and it presents a profound, vibrant meditation on the world of color. Far from being a simple catalogue of hues, this collection of poetry transforms color from a mere visual phenomenon into a deep exploration of human emotion, history, and cultural narrative. Woodman, a poet with a background rooted in an international childhood and a career at prestigious institutions like the Smithsonian and the Library of Congress, brings a rich, interdisciplinary perspective to her work. The book begins with a preface that beautifully traces her lifelong fascination with colors, influenced by the intense palette of her childhood in India and her later studies in art history. This scholarly yet intimate foundation sets the stage for a collection that is both highly accessible and deeply nuanced. The core thesis of “Colorscapes” is that colors are inextricably intertwined with our emotions, histories, and cultural narratives. Woodman supports this idea by devoting each poem to a specific color or nature theme, offering diverse and unique perspectives. Some of the most notable poems include: "Black Is Not a Color": A philosophical examination of black's dual associations with both darkness and elegant sophistication. "Leonardo DiCaprio with a Swan": An evocative reflection on the dramatic interplay of light and shadow, referencing the chiaroscuro technique often seen in photography and painting. "Shells and Rocks": A fascinating dive into the natural history of color, telling the story of coccolithophores, the microscopic marine organisms responsible for forming chalk and limestone. "Yves Blue": A powerful poetic homage to the iconic artist Yves Klein and his passionate, singular obsession with the color blue. "Toward Big Sur": A piece that captures the sublime and often chaotic energy found in nature, describing the dynamic intermingling of earth, sky, and sea along the coast. What truly sets “Colorscapes” apart is its masterful unique blend of poetic expression and scholarly insight. Woodman doesn't just describe colors; she investigates them. She draws upon historical references, scientific facts, and vivid personal anecdotes, giving the reader a comprehensive understanding of each color’s symbolic weight. The popular style ensures the work is not intimidating, making it easy for a broad audience to connect with the material without sacrificing intellectual depth. “Colorscapes” is an essential read for poetry enthusiasts, art historians, and anyone with a sincere interest in the cultural and emotional dimensions of colors. Readers will benefit from gaining both a deeper, more profound appreciation for the vivid hues that surround them and a greater understanding of how these colors subtly influence our perceptions and feelings every day. This collection, along with the “Scapes” in the series, is highly recommended for those who seek to enrich their knowledge of art and color theory through the moving, metaphorical lens of poetry. It’s a book that reminds us to look—really look—at the chromatic landscape of our lives. Previous Next

< Back Hazardous Lies Stephen J. Wallace Thriller, Mystery/Crime, crisis, corporate cover-up River Grove Books Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Haunted by a past tragedy, federal investigator Jon Barrett races against time to uncover the truth behind a deadly explosion at a chemical plant, facing corporate deceit and personal demons as he seeks justice for the victims. For fans of investigative thrillers, “Hazardous Lies” is a must-read that uncovers the dark side of corporate negligence. Set in the modern day, the story primarily unfolds in Charleston, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C., following the devastating aftermath of a catastrophic chemical plant explosion. It weaves together a high-stakes plot with deep-seated moral dilemmas. The story centers on Jon Barrett, a mechanical engineer burdened by a past professional failure that has left him cautious and withdrawn. When his new boss, Craig Higgins, tasks him with investigating the incident, Jon is thrust into a high-stakes and chaotic scene at the Chemtrifuge Chemicals plant. Jon's personal journey is central to the story; his initial reluctance to engage is slowly overcome by a growing sense of duty and a need for personal redemption. He faces resistance from plant manager Sam Page and HR manager Charlie, who are more concerned with damage control and deflecting blame onto contractors than with finding the truth. As Jon begins to dig, the atmosphere of corporate secrecy and outright obstruction becomes palpable, but his determination to find the truth ultimately pushes him past his own professional anxieties. The book succeeds in its exploration of character and theme. Jon's journey from a man haunted by failure to one relentlessly pursuing justice is a powerful arc of personal redemption. His investigation becomes more than a job; it is a quest to overcome his own past and advocate for the victims of the tragedy. He faces off against formidable figures like the ruthless executive Cain Quinn and contends with the political influence of Senator A.C. Mounts, whose son is tangled up in the incident. These confrontations highlight the central themes of corporate negligence and the unyielding pursuit of truth, painting a clear picture of the lengths to which powerful entities will go to conceal their mistakes. The tension culminates in a powerful climax as Jon uncovers the critical detail that improper materials in the plant’s piping directly contributed to the explosion, leading to a final high-stakes confrontation. The plot is thought-provoking, demonstrating how Jon's efforts lead to significant changes in company practices and charges against executives, while not shying away from the somber reality of the lives lost. It leaves an impression, underscoring the importance of integrity and perseverance in the face of profound adversity. “Hazardous Lies” is a compelling thriller that combines a thrilling plot with a meaningful character arc. It offers a detailed and intricate experience, perfect for readers who appreciate an immersive story about industrial disasters and the moral battles that follow. Through Jon Barrett’s courageous journey, the book ultimately affirms that even in the darkest of circumstances, the pursuit of truth can prevail. Previous Next