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Jonathon Benjamin | Biographies and Memoirs
American Airman by Jonathon Benjamin provides a heartfelt and captivating account, giving readers an honest and unrestricted glimpse into the experiences of wounded military personnel. The memoir starts by vividly portraying the author's challenges, encompassing both physical and emotional aspects, as he confronts the consequences of a devastating car accident that resulted in a severe brain injury while serving in the U.S. Air Force. Benjamin's written work effectively portrays the daunting experiences encountered by veterans who grapple with PTSD and the challenges of accessing healthcare within the veteran community. The writer's journey, characterized by unwavering determination, self-control, and persistence, unfolds amidst a disconcerting fact — the distressing frequency of veteran suicides in the United States.The narrative bravely exposes the misunderstandings and challenges that veterans encounter when they reintegrate into civilian life. It delves into the struggles of seekin...
Continue ReadingWendy Skorupski | Literary Fiction
Infinite Stranger by Wendy Skorupski is a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the intricate dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship. It begins on a snowy February morning in 1978, following eighteen-year-old Leah Cavanagh as she embarks on a transformative journey during a retreat at Greystones Abbey. Here, she meets Brother Matthew Haddon, and a connection that resonates deeply with Leah and her single mother, Molly, is ignited. Her mother is still haunted by the tragedy of her past and a loss that is etched deeply in her heart. Leah and Matthew will exchange letters while a budding longing takes root in her heart. Can she ever find fulfillment? Skorupski is a great storyteller with a knack for capturing the finesse of human emotion. In this novel, she explores the depth of familial bonds, unrequited desires, and the quest for personal fulfillment. Through Leah's eyes, readers are drawn into a world where the lines between love and longing blur as she navigates her evolvin...
Continue ReadingLarry Mellman | Historical Fiction
The Ballot Boy by Larry Mellman is a beautiful meld of historical fiction, political intrigue, and a poignant exploration of identity and sexuality in 14th-century Venice. Set against the backdrop of Venice in 1368, the novel follows the journey of Niccolò “Nico” Saltano, a young peasant thrust into the heart of Venetian politics when he is chosen to serve as the ballot boy during the election for a new doge. At the heart of the story is Nico's coming-of-age journey as he struggles with his identity issues and sexuality in a society that condemns those who dare to love differently. His burgeoning romance with Astolfo, the young lord of Castle Moccò, creates the tension that moves the story forward. Nico navigates the dangerous waters of forbidden love amidst political turmoil.Mellman is a gifted storyteller who immerses readers in the richly detailed world of Venice at a time when war looms on the horizon and treachery lurks in every corner of the doge's palace. Through Nico's eye...
Continue ReadingTeri M Brown | Historical Fiction
Teri M. Brown's Daughters of Green Mountain Gap offers a seductive saga spanning three generations of resilient North Carolina women at the cusp of the twentieth century. The narrative revolves around Maggie McCoury, a revered Appalachian granny woman, her daughter Carrie Ann, a staunch believer in scientific progress, and Josie Mae, caught in the crossfire of their conflicting ideologies. Set against the backdrop of the late 1800s and early 1900s, Brown masterfully captures the cultural and traditional setting, creating a wonderful portrait of life in the small town of Green Mountain Gap. Maggie, steeped in generational healing traditions derived from local Cherokee lore, becomes a focal point of admiration and conflict. Meanwhile, Carrie Ann, propelled by grief and a desire for scientific solutions, strives to bring modern medicine to the community. Brown writes intelligently about the conflict between tradition and science, examining what happens when someone is challenged to...
Continue ReadingRich DiSilvio | Fiction - Mystery- Sleuth
Rich DiSilvio's The Arnolfini Art Mysteries is a book with an irresistible appeal to fans of crime thrillers and deftly crafted sleuth novels. It follows the investigative work of Armand Arnolfini, an intelligent investigator on a mission to solve multiple art thefts. The book features a collection of richly illustrated and interconnected mysteries and takes readers on a thrilling ride from New York to Italy, Belgium, Germany, and beyond. In each standalone episode, Arnolfini faces a new challenge as he investigates art thefts, forgeries, and murders. DiSilvio's storytelling is impeccable, and the author has the knack for writing focused scenes and offering terrific descriptions while cleverly plotting a tale filled with suspense, intrigue, and unexpected twists. From the enigmatic Phantom Forger to the high-stakes Ghent Mystery, each case presents Arnolfini with unique puzzles to solve and adversaries to outsmart.The Arnolfini Art Mysteries presents elements of art hist...
Continue ReadingJ.C. Dilley | Poetry
In The Empowerment Alphabet by J.C. Dilley presents a unique and inspiring collection of poetry to guide readers through life's challenges with wisdom, resilience, and empowerment. Through the lens of each letter of the alphabet, Dilley delivers poignant verses that offer solace, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on personal growth. In “Dear Insecurity,” Dilley addresses the universal struggle with self-doubt and the quest for self-acceptance. Lines like “When compliments arrive, I won’t decline, I’ll welcome accolades and make them mine” resonate deeply, urging readers to embrace their worth and reject the corrosive influence of insecurity. Similarly, “Dear Adversity” confronts the trials and tribulations of life head-on, offering a message of hope in the face of adversity. Dilley's imagery, such as “Within the black hole, a spark that’s so divine,” evokes a sense of optimism and possibility even in the darkest moments.Dilley's mastery of language and rhythm shines thro...
Continue ReadingE.F. Dodd | Romance
Dave Richardson is bartending after leaving a job that left him dissatisfied. He is still struggling to figure out what is best for him. His life takes a new turn when Vivian walks into his bar. She is taking a quick break from her job as a pediatrician and on a girls’ trip to Rochester, New York. E.F. Dodd's Almost Perfect is an immersive exploration of the complex nature of contemporary love, an engaging narrative with a unique take on passion, vulnerability, and the obstacles faced in long-distance relationships. The love story between Dave Richardson and Vivian Walters is written with intelligence and skill and the development of the bond between the two feels natural. Dodd adeptly develops complex and relatable characters that emotionally engage readers; they are intriguing and deeply flawed. Dave, an aspiring bartender, and Vivian, an accomplished pediatrician who loves checklists, form a captivating and unexpected duo. The author's depiction of their challenges and vulnerabiliti...
Continue ReadingDon Tassone | Literary Fiction
Don Tassone's Drive is an engaging narrative that is also a compelling metaphor for life. Nick Reynolds is a highly successful yet deeply troubled food company executive. He is a man who is hard to deal with at work and a man who doesn't seem to have a strong sense of what is essential. He is so absorbed by himself and feared by his employees. He doesn't enjoy a strong relationship with his wife and children. When he screws up at work, his boss asks him to take some days off, so he sets off alone from his home in Chicago for Bar Harbor, Maine. What happens on the road will blow the minds of readers as Nick Reynolds discovers that the road can be the best form of intersection between his highest dreams and his deepest fears. Follow this character through a journey in which the road reveals a lot about him and prompts a journey toward self-discovery, healing, and redemption. Nick Reynolds is not a likable protagonist at the outset. He is a bully, feared by his employees, and estranged fr...
Continue ReadingEllissa Schwartz | Children's Picture Books
This Day I Hold Dear by Ellissa Schwartz is an enchanting journey through the seasons of parenthood, beautifully encapsulating the profound emotions and timeless moments shared between parent and child. With tender rhymes and heartfelt messages, Schwartz eloquently expresses the universal experience of watching children grow amidst the ever-passing time. Through poignant verses, the author invites readers to reflect on the fleeting nature of childhood, urging time to slow down so every cherished moment can be savored indefinitely. Each poem is a heartfelt plea to freeze time, capturing the beauty of childhood innocence and the boundless love parents have for their children.The illustrations accompanying the text are captivating and appealing to young readers while enhancing the emotional depth of the verses. Together, words and images create a tapestry of love and nostalgia, evoking a sense of warmth and tenderness that resonates with readers of all ages. Schwartz's personal touch...
Continue ReadingTony Jeton Selimi | Self- Help
In A Path to Excellence: The Blueprint to Achieving Your Greatest Potential, Tony Jeton Selimi gives readers a powerful guide to unlocking their inner greatness and charting a course towards personal and professional fulfillment. With a blend of practical strategies, insightful anecdotes, and transformative exercises, Selimi empowers readers to tap into their inherent potential and overcome obstacles to excellence. At the heart of Selimi's message is the belief that individuals possess the capacity for growth and achievement, limited only by their determination and willingness to take action. Through the concept of ''The Octagon of Excellence,'' Selimi outlines a holistic approach to personal development that encompasses mental, emotional, spiritual, relational, social, career, and financial dimensions. By guiding readers through hands-on activities and reflective exercises, Selimi encourages self-discovery and empowers readers to take ownership of their journey toward success. The bo...
Continue ReadingLS Delorme |
LS Delorme's Bright Midnights: A Dark Paranormal Love Story is a gorgeous addition to the Limerent Series, offering a rich blend of metaphysical sci-fi and romance. In this enthralling narrative, we follow the plight of 17-year-old Amelie, laden with a mysterious gift that attracts others to her. But those who get to her present dangers, so she must shield herself by constructing barriers in her mind. From the outset, Amelie's life is fraught with challenges beyond typical teenage angst. Her unique ability to draw others toward her sets her apart; while she draws others to her, she can also feel lonely. Her safe place is her dreams, and when she encounters the mysterious Clovis, whose secrets intertwine with hers, a forbidden attraction is born between the two, an attraction that will fuel the tension that moves this story forward. Delorme creates intricate plot twists, compelling characters, and a looming sense of foreboding, intelligently presenting a thought-provoking exploration...
Continue ReadingStella Atrium | Science Fiction & Fantasy
In Tribal Logic, the fourth installment of Stella Atrium's Tribal Wars series, readers are treated to a thrilling adventure filled with intergalactic intrigue, romance, and political upheaval. Set in the vibrant and expansive world of Dolvia, in the Galaxy's Westend, this book delivers a riveting narrative that captivates from start to finish. The story follows the protagonist, Jesse Hartley, as she faces the aftermath of a bloodless coup on Stargate Junction. This pivotal moment sends her on a journey fraught with danger and uncertainty. Meanwhile, Hershel Henry sets out to rescue abandoned conscripts after the Company's withdrawal from asteroid mining. As the political landscape of Dolvia shifts and alliances are tested, Jesse and Hershel must make difficult choices that will shape the future of their world.Atrium combines multiple plot points, creating a rich, fascinating science fiction filled with action, romance, and suspense. The dynamic between Jesse and Her...
Continue ReadingColin Dodds | Fiction - Literary
The Reign of the Anti-Santas by Colin Dodds is a unique and audacious Christmas tale that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through a world where the holiday spirit collides head-on with corporate greed, scandal, and societal change. The story is narrated by Elvin, an elf with a front-row seat to the evolution and devolution of Christmas. Elvin's journey begins when he unwittingly accompanies Santa Claus on a Christmas Eve trip, setting the stage for a decades-long adventure filled with intrigue and danger. Dodds creates a narrative that includes Santa's secret affairs, the PR scandal that catapults Rudolph to fame, and the encroachment of humanity on the North Pole. What makes this book truly captivating is its imaginative world-building. Dodds constructs a fully realized universe of elves with a rich history and culture. Readers are treated to an exploration of the elves' interactions with humans and their transformation into pine trees at the end of their lives. This unearthly a...
Continue ReadingMarjan Sierhuis (Iguana Books)
Marjan Sierhuis’s collection of short stories, The Dog Stays and Other Stories, is a gorgeous treat that captures experiences woven with empathy, humor, and profound insight. Through diverse narratives, Sierhuis explores themes of love, loss, resilience, and relationships, leaving readers captivated and deeply moved. Each story feels like a cookie, and the author’s economy of words and the ability to condense situations into a few paragraphs are remarkable. In “Flame,” readers are transported into the inner conflict of a dragon facing huma...
Sandra Brown Lindstedt (Self)
Life of a Firefly by Sandra Brown Lindstedt is a heartwarming exploration of resilience, faith, and the power of storytelling amidst the challenges of growing up in the South Side of Chicago. Through the eyes of protagonist Sandy Forte, readers are taken on a journey from the small town of Hooks, Texas, to the bustling streets of Chicago, where Sandy struggles with loss, longing, and the search for identity. Lindstedt melds elements of Sandy's childhood memories, familial dynamics, and the cultural shocks of transitioning from a small town to a...
Wendy Skorupski (Wendy Skorupski)
Infinite Stranger by Wendy Skorupski is a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the intricate dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship. It begins on a snowy February morning in 1978, following eighteen-year-old Leah Cavanagh as she embarks on a transformative journey during a retreat at Greystones Abbey. Here, she meets Brother Matthew Haddon, and a connection that resonates deeply with Leah and her single mother, Molly, is ignited. Her mother is still haunted by the tragedy of her past and a loss that is etched deeply in her heart. Leah...
Stella Atrium (Stella Atrium Writes LLC)
In Tribal Logic, the fourth installment of Stella Atrium's Tribal Wars series, readers are treated to a thrilling adventure filled with intergalactic intrigue, romance, and political upheaval. Set in the vibrant and expansive world of Dolvia, in the Galaxy's Westend, this book delivers a riveting narrative that captivates from start to finish. The story follows the protagonist, Jesse Hartley, as she faces the aftermath of a bloodless coup on Stargate Junction. This pivotal moment sends her on a journey fraught with danger an...
J.C. Dilley (selfpublishing.com)
In The Empowerment Alphabet by J.C. Dilley presents a unique and inspiring collection of poetry to guide readers through life's challenges with wisdom, resilience, and empowerment. Through the lens of each letter of the alphabet, Dilley delivers poignant verses that offer solace, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on personal growth. In “Dear Insecurity,” Dilley addresses the universal struggle with self-doubt and the quest for self-acceptance. Lines like “When compliments arrive, I won’t decline, I’ll welcome accolades and make t...
Jaime Enrique Gutierrez Perez (Xlibris AU)
In Journey of Sea, Heart and Land, Jaime Enrique Gutierrez Perez takes readers on an evocative voyage through the life of Elias Gomez, a young man whose yearning for adventure propels him into a world of discovery, friendship, and self-realization. Set against the backdrop of San Andrés, Colombia, Gutierrez Perez weaves a tale that is as much about the protagonist's inner journey as it is about the physical travels he undertakes. Through vivid descriptions and heartfelt dialogue, the author skillfully immerses the reader in Elias's world—a worl...
Ellissa Schwartz (Author Ellissa Schwartz)
This Day I Hold Dear by Ellissa Schwartz is an enchanting journey through the seasons of parenthood, beautifully encapsulating the profound emotions and timeless moments shared between parent and child. With tender rhymes and heartfelt messages, Schwartz eloquently expresses the universal experience of watching children grow amidst the ever-passing time. Through poignant verses, the author invites readers to reflect on the fleeting nature of childhood, urging time to slow down so every cherished moment can be savored indefinitely. Each poe...
David Ellis (Atmosphere Press)
Resolution by David Ellis is a gorgeous collection of interconnected tales that intricately weave together the lives of its characters. Spanning different times and places, the stories gradually reveal their common threads, drawing readers into a world where the unpredictable reigns supreme. Ellis skillfully introduces us to characters whose seemingly ordinary lives are disrupted by extraordinary events. In “Polly Smeeker’s Ghost,” Rory experiences escalating unease and a growing obsession with the supernatural. As he witnesses inexplicable eve...
Ardie Stallard (Pink Flamingo Media)
SWITCH IV: The Spanker’s Apprentice by Ardie Stallard is a gripping and provocative exploration of sexuality, relationships, and human desire. This fourth installment of the Switch series follows Felicia Culbertson Guthrie, a multifaceted character balancing roles as a wife, mother, counselor, and spanking therapist. Stallard puts together a tapestry of themes ranging from intimacy and trust to power dynamics and self-discovery. Through Felicia's experiences, readers are invited to examine the intricacies of BDSM culture, including impact...
Mark Snoad (Monarch Educational Services LLC)
Maggie and the Mountain of Light by Mark Snoad is a captivating adventure that mixes elements of fantasy, mystery, and self-discovery to offer readers a delightful reading experience. Set against the backdrop of an apocalypse training camp run by the enigmatic Wayfinder Girls, the novel follows the journey of Maggie, an ordinary 12-year-old girl struggling with anxiety and allergies, as she uncovers hidden truths and discovers her inner strength. From the get-go, the story grips readers with suspense and intrigue as it follows Maggie throu...
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