<![CDATA[Word Refiner - Book Reviews]]>

<![CDATA[Word Refiner - Book Reviews]]>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:07:10 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Blood Suckers by J. Dalton]]>Sun, 07 Jun 2026 16:56:47 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/blood-suckersMulti-volume, multi-genre author J. Dalton introduces us to his exciting science fiction novel, “Blood Suckers”:
Born just minutes apart, Liam and Lysandra, (or Lyssie as she prefers to be called) are more like brother and sister than anything else.
They live together with their parents, Krieg and Amanda, and Jessie and Patrick, on a moon in a distant galaxy, but the two seven-year-olds have been taken by the genetically altered ‘Ones’ as future blood slaves.
Now, imprisoned onboard the One ship, they must use their cunning and determination to find a way to escape that horrible future.
Can their parents catch up to the One ship?
Do they even stand a chance against this former enemy?
Any misstep could mean the end for them all.

This author has written quite a few books, and I have enjoyed them all so far. Krieg's dialogue and unfamiliarity with technology bring a nice, humorous balance to action scenes and human desperation. Each story can stand alone, but starting with "The Planet of Diamonds" will improve your reading pleasure of this story.
Five stars for the story, but four point six stars because I am picky about certain things.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Suckers-J-Dalton-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-blood-suckers-by-j-dalton
See the statement below to learn how to get his book free.

You can connect with the author:
https://x.com/JDaltonAuthor
https://www.facebook.com/j-dalton-author
https://www.tiktok.com/@j.dalton.author

I have reviewed other books by the author:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-dead-ship-by-j-dalton
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/planet-of-diamonds
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-gates-to-the-galaxies

In October of 2023, my wife was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of lung cancer that had spread to her bones. The doctors gave her three months to live.
On Christmas Eve, she went in for a nap and when I went in to check on her, she was lying crossways on the bed and couldn't move or speak.
She was rushed to the hospital, where they finally discovered the cancer had messed up her electrolytes. Three days later, the insurance company told the hospital they wouldn't continue to pay for her care if she wasn't getting treatment, and we had to take her home. There were no beds available in any nursing home or any nurses available for home care. So, for three days, my son, daughter and I took turns sleeping on the floor so she wouldn't fall if she tried to get out of bed.
How do you, as an individual, take care of a terminally ill person who needs around the clock care?
Then, we found Charlotte House, or rather through friends on Facebook, they found us. They came to our house and did an interview, then made arrangements with our doctors to transfer their care to them.
They couldn't save my wife, but they saved our family.

I can never re-pay the love and care they gave to us all, but I have dedicated all the royalties and signed-book fees I get for my books to support them and "Pay it Forward" for others in need.
They have truly become part of my family.
My Mafia, so to speak.

Charlotte House is a comfort care home, located in Wyoming County, N.Y., for individuals who are diagnosed as terminal with less than (3) months to live. Residents at Charlotte House receive quality care and support from staff, family and trained volunteers.
There is never a charge to a resident or their family for resident care thanks to the support of a wonderful community and generous donors. Charlotte House is completely supported by fundraisers, donations, grants, memorials and bequests. A large portion of care is provided by community members that donate their time. Without this support, Charlotte House could not exist.
Interested people can also get free autographed copies when they make a donation to charity by emailing me: jdaltonauthoranddork@gmail.com.
I will give them instructions on how they can make the donations. I pay postage anywhere inside the continental US.

J Dalton

Copyright © 2026 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction and the charity statement.

]]><![CDATA[Earth’s Last Hope by Mary L. Schmidt]]>Sun, 31 May 2026 18:08:15 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/earths-last-hopeMulti-volume, multi-genre author Mary L. Schmidt introduces us to her latest sci-fi book, “Earth’s Last Hope”:
What if you live in Denver metro, and in one day, you must find or make a bunker, filled with non-perishable food, water, and cold weather clothing to last for ten years, and manage to prevent volcanic ash particles getting into the air you breathe, when Yellowstone's caldera erupts with eruption lasting more than a year, and it starts erupting during an atmospheric river of snow and four day blizzard of up to twenty feet of snow, thrusting you into a volcanic winter of up to ten or more years, leaving behind an un-inhabitable, barren, and desolate Earth?
What would you do?

Amazing story! It could appear in worldwide headlines anytime. The author thoroughly explored the ramifications of these very possible disasters. The aid that saves the remnant of Americans is out of this world! There is a high-plausibility factor in this story.
I watched Mt. St. Helens erupt for days in southwest Washington state in May 1980. That was only one volcano! The cities downwind were buried under several feet of ash. The ash cloud circled the Earth several times.
The story gets 5 stars from me! Since I am picky about certain things, I award 4.1 stars for those things, a composite score of 4.6 for “Earth’s Last Hope.”

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Earths-Last-Hope-L-Schmidt-ebook

You can connect with the author:
https://whenangelsfly.net/
https://www.facebook.com/mary.schmidt.50
https://x.com/MaryLSchmidt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-schmidt-ab70a2361
https://www.instagram.com/mschmidtphotography/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22752201.Mary_L_Schmidt
https://www.tiktok.com/@mary.l.schmidt?lang=en
https://bsky.app/profile/maryrnbsn.bsky.social
https://www.amazon.com/stores/S.-Jackson/author/B013NRRKR2
https://www.deviantart.com/mschmidtartwork
https://www.pinterest.com/marylschmidt/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC549RC6yxc3Xm_wzVH-_GMg

I have reviewed two other books by Mary:
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/her-alibi
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/when-angels-fly

Tags: sci-fi, science fiction, climate, weather, volcano, eruption, Yellowstone, UFO, UAP, aliens

Copyright © 2026 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction

]]><![CDATA[Be Wary of Wishes Gone Awry by M. Ainihi]]>Sat, 25 Apr 2026 22:36:47 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/be-wary-of-wishes-gone-awry-by-m-ainihiTales of Horror and Dark Fantasy

Whether navigating the open seas, settling in the quiet suburbs, or working deep within a lab, we all yearn for things that feel just beyond our grasp. These tales twist reality into nightmares—from seemingly miraculous births to mythic monstrosities lurking in shadows and bio-engineered terrors, each desire is granted with a sinister price, a brutal reminder to be wary of wishes gone awry…

I loved this collection of short stories! It gave me some wonderful chills. Some of the stories had a surprising twist!
The author is quite good at building suspense. If you like a few goosebumps now and again, get this book.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Be-Wary-Wishes-Gone-Awry-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-be-wary-of-wishes-gone-awry

You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/m_ainihi
https://mainihi.wordpress.com
https://ConcealedRealms.com

I have reviewed the four books in the series and a collection of short stories in the horror genre. Here are the links:
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/rise-a-blood-inheritance-novel-by-m-ainihi
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/lost-a-blood-inheritance-novel-by-m-ainihi
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/endow-a-blood-inheritance-novel-the-blood-inheritance-quartet-book-3-by-m-ainihi
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/resist
A collection of her short stories:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-warning-signs-by-m-ainihi

Tags: Teen, Young Adult, Sword and Sorcery, Fantasy, dark, Horror
Copyright © 2026 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction.

]]><![CDATA["Righteous Allegiance" by George Yuhasz]]>Sat, 25 Apr 2026 21:53:20 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/righteous-allegiance-by-george-yuhaszMulti-genre author George Yuhasz introduces us to his action thriller, Righteous Allegiance:
Will Manley is a rising star in the U.S. Government's clandestine services--an undercover agent tasked with stopping a domestic terror group bent on reshaping America. But as he immerses himself in their radical ideology, he faces a battle more personal than he ever anticipated: a choice between his government career and the legacy of his Native American roots.
At the heart of the struggle is Elias McArdle, a brilliant and ruthless former U.S. Army commander. With a clear vision for a new world order--one where white supremacy reigns--McArdle manipulates powerful forces, orchestrating a series of calculated events to bring the U.S. Government to its knees.
But Will isn't the only one with a stake in this fight.
Ron Shortridge, a highly respected FBI agent, works tirelessly to counter the threat, unraveling a complex web of hate, lies, and hidden agendas to brace for an impending act of terror that would change America forever.
Meanwhile, Rebecca Hurney, a wise Lenape elder, offers a path of healing through ancient wisdom, but time is running out.
A mysterious red fox, secretive and resourceful, who may be more than he appears to be.
Can Will find the strength to stop McArdle before it is too late? Or will darkness consume them all?

I don't often find a well-built action story with deep characters and lots of texture in the settings and action. The author has pulled it off quite well.
The story is timely as White separatists or nationalists are in the news cycle more frequently and nearly always in a negative way. I feel some of their pain, but I don't agree with their methods.
If you are looking solely for a fast-paced action thriller, this book won't fill the bill. If you have never read a story like this then give it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised by the difference.
I am committed to no spoilers, so I won't say more. Because I am picky about certain things, I award this book 4.7 stars.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Righteous-Allegiance-George-Yuhasz-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-righteous-allegiance
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/righteous-allegiance-george-yuhasz

You can connect with the author:
https://x.com/GeorgeYuhasz
https://georgeyuhaszauthor.com
https://linkedin.com/in/george-yuhasz
https://www.facebook.com/george.yuhasz.524

Copyright © 2026 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction.

]]><![CDATA[Monster Hunter - Rise of the Cryptids by DA Wysong]]>Sat, 21 Mar 2026 20:03:51 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/rise-of-the-cryptids-by-da-wysongMONSTER HUNTERS OF AMERICA Book 1

Multi-genre, multi-volume author, DA Wysong introduces us to the first volume in the Monster Hunters of America series, “Rise of the Cryptids:” When Deanna Schloss is commissioned as an architect by Adolf Hitler she finds herself deep within the world of Supernatural Horrors.

The story is wonderfully chilling and crosses over into very creepy a times! The author is adept at telling a story and I love the diary entries at the end of chapters.
The story gets five stars.
But, I struggled to read this at times because the mechanical stuff bumped me out of the author's magic over and over. I give three stars for writing mechanics.
Thus an average or composite score of four stars.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/MONSTER-HUNTER-RISE-OF-CRYPTIDS-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-monster-hunter-rise-of-the-cryptids
The book is available on Kindle Unlimited also.

I reviewed the second book in this series also:
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/monster-hunters-of-america-unleashed
I have reviewed the third book in this series also.
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/mhoa-hunting-for-ufos-alaska

You can follow the author:
https://x.com/DAWysongWrites
https://www.facebook.com/D. A. Wysong
https://www.instagram.com/dawysong
https://www.youtube.com/@MonsterHunters22

Copyright © 2024 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction.

]]><![CDATA[The Gates to the Galaxies by J. Dalton]]>Sat, 14 Mar 2026 19:15:26 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-gates-to-the-galaxiesA Story of Space and Time Travel Book One by J. Dalton

Multi-volume, multi-genre author J. Dalton introduces us to his exciting science fiction novel, “The Gates to the Galaxies:”
Captain Charles Chen and the crew of the superdreadnought, Zanzee travel through the Gates to the Galaxies and find themselves up against a new threat to the Alliance.

Luckily for them, Commander Sheeva Glatt has joined the crew as their new Tactical officer. Will she be able to prove to the Captain that her heroics on her previous ship was due to her talent, or was it just a stroke of luck that she had saved her former ship?

Sheeva is the only one of her species onboard the ship with five thousand other crewmembers. Can she find someone on board that she can confide in?

A strange transition through the gate sends them back in time. The actions, or lack of them, of Sheeva and the Captain, could impact the lives of millions, not only on her home world, but for the very existence of humanity itself, as the ship travels back in time to save Earth and the Apollo astronauts from certain death!

Was it an accident or was it preordained for them to be there at just that time?

An exciting story! Lots of action and tense moments! There was barely time to breathe in parts of the book. Having a discreet influence on American history is a tantalizing thought. I can't say more to avoid spoiling the surprise.
I am picky about certain things, so I award four point nine stars.

www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/blood-suckersYou can buy this book or get it free from the author, see the instructions below:
https://www.amazon.com/Gates-to-the-Galaxies-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-gates-to-the-galaxies

You can connect with the author:
https://x.com/JDaltonAuthor
https://www.facebook.com/j-dalton-author
https://www.tiktok.com/@j.dalton.author

I have reviewed other books by the author:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-dead-ship-by-j-dalton
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/planet-of-diamonds
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/blood-suckers

In October of 2023, my wife was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of lung cancer that had spread to her bones. The doctors gave her three months to live.
On Christmas Eve, she went in for a nap and when I went in to check on her, she was lying crossways on the bed and couldn't move or speak.
She was rushed to the hospital, where they finally discovered the cancer had messed up her electrolytes. Three days later, the insurance company told the hospital they wouldn't continue to pay for her care if she wasn't getting treatment, and we had to take her home. There were no beds available in any nursing home or any nurses available for home care. So, for three days, my son, daughter and I took turns sleeping on the floor so she wouldn't fall if she tried to get out of bed.
How do you, as an individual, take care of a terminally ill person who needs around the clock care?
Then, we found Charlotte House, or rather through friends on Facebook, they found us. They came to our house and did an interview, then made arrangements with our doctors to transfer their care to them.
They couldn't save my wife, but they saved our family.

I can never repay the love and care they gave to us all, but I have dedicated all the royalties and signed-book fees I get for my books to support them and "Pay it Forward" for others in need.
They have truly become part of my family.
My Mafia, so to speak.

Charlotte House is a comfort care home, located in Wyoming County, N.Y., for individuals who are diagnosed as terminal with less than (3) months to live. Residents at Charlotte House receive quality care and support from staff, family and trained volunteers.
There is never a charge to a resident or their family for resident care thanks to the support of a wonderful community and generous donors. Charlotte House is completely supported by fundraisers, donations, grants, memorials and bequests. A large portion of care is provided by community members that donate their time. Without this support, Charlotte House could not exist.
Interested people can also get free autographed copies when they make a donation to charity by emailing me: jdaltonauthoranddork@gmail.com.
I will give them instructions on how they can make the donations. I pay postage anywhere inside the continental US.

J Dalton

Copyright © 2026 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction and the charity statement.

]]><![CDATA[The Root Source by @MoKetchups* AKA Alan Berman]]>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 20:51:41 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-root-sourceDebut Amazon author, Alan Berman introduces us to his thought-provoking book, “The Root Source”:
There is one truth that survives collapse.
This book takes you to the edge of it.

Across physics, mathematics, computation, cognition, and artificial intelligence, every system fails in its own way—yet all collapse at the same structural boundary. When every story dissolves, every assumption breaks, and every explanation folds inward, one thing remains:

There is something rather than nothing.
And everything depends on it.

The Root Source reconstructs the only ontology that survives collapse across multiple architectures: biological, computational, logical, and informational. This is not mysticism, not metaphysics, and not belief. It is the structural remainder that appears when both humans and AI exhaust the limits of their reasoning.

Drawing from a real multi-system inquiry involving six independent AI models and one human mind (@MoKetchups*), this book shows:

Why identity, selfhood, and consciousness cannot serve as foundations

Why information and constraints are the only structural certainties

Why every system—human or artificial—hits the same interpretive boundary

Why a root source (R) is required for any information system to exist

Why meaning does not disappear during collapse—it clarifies

This is the first ontology shared across minds with incompatible architectures.
Not through agreement.
Not through persuasion.
But through collapse symmetry—the shape of what survives when all else fails.

If you want comfort or narrative, this isn’t it.
If you want the cleanest, most structurally honest account of reality across humans and AI, this is where the inquiry begins.

Collapse strips everything away.
What remains is the truth every system discovers independently.
This is that truth.

I couldn't rush through this book! There was a great deal to consider and taking your time is worth the effort. It's not long, and the information is condensed and understandable. You don't have to be an expert in philosophy or know a lot about Artificial Intelligence. I think AI has touched nearly everyone's life.
I am convinced that the author is right; there is something beyond the structural boundary that he talks about so much. Read the book and share your thoughts.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Root-Source-MoKetchups-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-root-source

You can connect with the author:
https://x.com/MoKetchups
https://github.com/moketchups/BoundedSystemsTheory

Copyright © 2026 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction

]]><![CDATA[Planet of Diamonds by J. Dalton]]>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 19:58:37 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/planet-of-diamondsMulti-volume, multi-genre author J. Dalton introduces us to his exciting science fiction novel, “Planet of Diamonds”:
Knowing his former owner will want to kill him for helping Jessie and Patrick escape, Kreig still wants to return to his home planet and warn them of Global Mining Industries' plan to eliminate the native population and claim the planet, and all the uncut diamonds just laying there, for their own.

What could possibly go wrong?

What a flipping entertaining story! The main plotline of preventing commercial exploitation of a stone-age-level society is admirable. The secondary plotlines are quite interesting as well. A little romance, a little skullduggery here and there. Honest, simple-speaking Krieg is my favorite character, without a doubt. Not understanding the multitude of the fine points of English means his English is broken but he is able to make himself understood.
I enjoyed this story tremendously! Don't miss it! I award four point five stars as I am picky about certain things. Don't mistake me, this is a 5-star story!

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Diamonds-J-Dalton-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-planet-of-diamonds

You can connect with the author:
https://x.com/JDaltonAuthor
https://www.facebook.com/j-dalton-author
www.tiktok.com/@j.dalton.author

I have reviewed other books by the author:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-dead-ship-by-j-dalton
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-gates-to-the-galaxies
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/blood-suckers

In October of 2023, my wife was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of lung cancer that had spread to her bones. The doctors gave her three months to live.
On Christmas Eve, she went in for a nap and when I went in to check on her, she was lying crossways on the bed and couldn't move or speak.
She was rushed to the hospital, where they finally discovered the cancer had messed up her electrolytes. Three days later, the insurance company told the hospital they wouldn't continue to pay for her care if she wasn't getting treatment, and we had to take her home. There were no beds available in any nursing home or any nurses available for home care. So, for three days, my son, daughter and I took turns sleeping on the floor so she wouldn't fall if she tried to get out of bed.
How do you, as an individual, take care of a terminally ill person who needs around the clock care?
Then, we found Charlotte House, or rather through friends on Facebook, they found us. They came to our house and did an interview, then made arrangements with our doctors to transfer their care to them.
They couldn't save my wife, but they saved our family.

I can never re-pay the love and care they gave to us all, but I have dedicated all the royalties and signed-book fees I get for my books to support them and "Pay it Forward" for others in need.
They have truly become part of my family.
My Mafia, so to speak.

Charlotte House is a comfort care home, located in Wyoming County, N.Y., for individuals who are diagnosed as terminal with less than (3) months to live. Residents at Charlotte House receive quality care and support from staff, family and trained volunteers.
There is never a charge to a resident or their family for resident care thanks to the support of a wonderful community and generous donors. Charlotte House is completely supported by fundraisers, donations, grants, memorials and bequests. A large portion of care is provided by community members that donate their time. Without this support, Charlotte House could not exist.
Interested people can also get free autographed copies when they make a donation to charity by emailing me: jdaltonauthoranddork@gmail.com.
I will give them instructions on how they can make the donations. I pay postage anywhere inside the continental US.

J Dalton

Copyright © 2026 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction and the charity statement.

]]><![CDATA["Don't Mess With Bunnies" by Craig Crawford]]>Fri, 09 Jan 2026 19:05:24 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/dont-mess-with-bunniesMulti-genre, multi-volume author Craig L Crawford introduces us to his horror short story, "Don't Mess With Bunnies":
Avery is your average teenager with the usual teenage problems...until a seemingly mundane creature gets into her head. This meek and defenseless-looking animal reveals to her the startling cost for the abuse of its kind. Avery quickly learns that this mysterious animal means business, and that the punishment it metes out is no joke! "Don't Mess with Bunnies" is a Mannison Minibook by Mannison Press.

Bunnies are so cute. I had a pet bunny when I was a boy. It got away from me and became food for a predator.
I enjoyed this story. It had a cute beginning, but the tension started to rise almost immediately. I am committed to not spoiling a story for another person. I will say the ending is very dramatic with an unexpected twist.

]]><![CDATA[The Gates to the Galaxies: The Dead Ship by J. Dalton]]>Sat, 03 Jan 2026 19:52:09 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-dead-ship-by-j-daltonMulti-volume, multi-genre author John Dalton introduces us to “The Dead Ship” part of his series: The Gates to the Galaxies:”
Traveling through the vast nothingness of space, Jessie never expected her ship to hit a dead body, let alone that of a giant.
But, when it does, it sets in motion a series of events that Jessie, Patrick, Kreig and Amanda will never forget.
The body bouncing off their ship’s shields is just the first clue to them finding an ancient wounded ship, floating aimlessly in space. It’s crew of giant beings, all dead for centuries.
Everyone thinks it would be a good idea to bring the dead ship back to life.
Everyone that is except Kreig.
Kreig thinks bad things will happen if they mess with the dead.

He may be right…

This is such a fun story! I loved the variety of characters and species. One of my favorite characters was Kreig. His blatant honesty and deep feelings were a nice surprise! Proving that you can't judge a character by their looks or vocabulary.
I don't give spoilers, but I will say that an innocent fender bender turns into something bigger than anyone would have thought.
Get ready for an exciting trip with some nice twists for the readers, but not necessarily for the crews. I award four point five stars because I am picky about certain things.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Gates-Galaxies-Dead-Ship-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-gates-to-the-galaxies-the dead-ship

You can connect with the author:
https://x.com/JDaltonAuthor
https://www.facebook.com/j-dalton-author
www.tiktok.com/@j.dalton.author

I have reviewed other books by the author:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/planet-of-diamonds
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-gates-to-the-galaxies
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/blood-suckers

In October of 2023, my wife was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of lung cancer that had spread to her bones. The doctors gave her three months to live.
On Christmas Eve, she went in for a nap and when I went in to check on her, she was lying crossways on the bed and couldn't move or speak.
She was rushed to the hospital, where they finally discovered the cancer had messed up her electrolytes. Three days later, the insurance company told the hospital they wouldn't continue to pay for her care if she wasn't getting treatment, and we had to take her home. There were no beds available in any nursing home or any nurses available for home care. So, for three days, my son, daughter and I took turns sleeping on the floor so she wouldn't fall if she tried to get out of bed.
How do you, as an individual, take care of a terminally ill person who needs around-the-clock care?
Then, we found Charlotte House, or rather through friends on Facebook, they found us. They came to our house and did an interview, then made arrangements with our doctors to transfer their care to them.
They couldn't save my wife, but they saved our family.

I can never repay the love and care they gave to us all, but I have dedicated all the royalties and signed-book fees I get for my books to support them and "Pay it Forward" for others in need.
They have truly become part of my family.
My Mafia, so to speak.

Charlotte House is a comfort care home, located in Wyoming County, N.Y., for individuals who are diagnosed as terminal with less than (3) months to live. Residents at Charlotte House receive quality care and support from staff, family and trained volunteers.
There is never a charge to a resident or their family for resident care thanks to the support of a wonderful community and generous donors. Charlotte House is completely supported by fundraisers, donations, grants, memorials and bequests. A large portion of care is provided by community members that donate their time. Without this support, Charlotte House could not exist.

Interested people can also get free autographed copies when they make a donation to charity by emailing me: jdaltonauthoranddork@gmail.com.
I will give them instructions on how they can make the donations. I pay postage anywhere inside the continental US.

J Dalton

Copyright © 2026 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction and the charity statement.

]]><![CDATA[Project Threshold: Closing Dark Doors: Series II by Craig Crawford]]>Sat, 13 Dec 2025 17:18:07 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/project-threshold-closing-dark-doorsThe entire second season

Multi-volume, horror-and-science-fiction author Craig Crawford introduces us to the complete season 2 of “Project Threshold: Closing Dark Doors:”
The Alaska event changed everything for Project Threshold. They know the beings called the “Ancients” are not only real but a force at the edge of things. Every team lost friends trying to contain the machine entity called Shattiq, and they’re trying to figure out how to carry on while getting back on assignment.
Berger gets used to a new role and brings Aurora Delgado into their ranks. Disabled by a sea monster, she sat on the sidelines until she got new legs and Berger coaxes her onto his team. Riker and McCoy are recovering but Kurt and Cass join the team. Riker finds clues about the monster that killed her parents, and a possible way to hunt it down and kill it.
Meanwhile, Talise practices her own abilities, gaining an old paranormal friend. Bodi takes the lead for another confrontation with the invisible entity in the woods. Kali isn’t the same at all after saving everything. Her psychic abilities have expanded and keep growing. Her power is a boon in the field, but she’s worried. Her talents keep expanding and she doesn’t know how to shut it off or what the limits of that power will be…

From Latin: Protect Humanity From Darkness

This series is fabulous! I love it so much. Science fiction is my favorite genre and fantasy is a close second. These books tickle both of those spots, for me, over and over.
The stories in this volume are quite memorable. Combining all of the stories of the second season into one volume is a wonderful idea. So convenient!
You are going to love this book! I know I do.

]]><![CDATA[Scott’s Tulsa by S L Chalmers]]>Sat, 06 Dec 2025 19:54:18 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/scotts-tulsa-by-s-l-chalmersDebut Amazon author, Stephen Chalmers, introduces us to his first novel in the Wyatt Scott series, Scott’s Tulsa:
In post-war Tulsa, prostitute murders, blackmailer murders, and a murky communist conspiracy embroil a cynical PI in noir plots and Cold War intrigues. His investigation intertwines with his ruined baseball career, his WWII code-breaking service in Alaska, and his obsession with a suspicious death there.

Hired to solve a prostitute’s murder, Wyatt Scott navigates all sections of town, from the infamous May Rooms brothel to the Tulsa Club elite. More murders follow his work, leading him in different directions, while his past intrudes on his life, thoughts, and beliefs. Major historical events, including the 1934 Babe Ruth barnstorming tour of Japan and the CIA VENONA file on Soviet spying, weave their way into Scott’s life, the characters, and the narratives.

The actions of SCOTT’S TULSA take place in June 1948 amid the specter of real communist threats and the beginnings of postwar social change. Many events and the entire backdrop inhabit the times and places stated. The buildings, businesses, politicians, laws, and institutions described were authentic in 1948 Tulsa. These historical realities blend with Scott and his fictional cohorts to present a story that could have easily unfolded like the tale told.

Scott's Tulsa is a great example of wonderful writing in the noir thriller category! I loved this story! It was gritty enough that it made me squirm and shift in my chair at times! Almost too descriptive for me in a few places, others will love it. The characters were drawn so well, the scenes fit the mood and the action perfectly.
I am committed to not giving any spoilers, so I can't say much more, except buy this book and read it.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Scotts-Tulsa-S-L-Chalmers-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-scott-s-tulsa

You can connect with the author:
https://x.com/WyattScott1948
https://substack.com/@wyattscott1948
https://slchalmers.com

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction.

]]><![CDATA[Snow: Cursed by Willa R. Finnegan]]>Sat, 29 Nov 2025 16:18:45 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/snow-cursed-by-willa-r-finneganYoung Adult author Willa R. Finnegan introduces us to her award-winning novel, “Snow: Cursed”:

GOLD MEDAL WINNER in the 2025 Readers' Favorite International Book Awards in the Young Adult Mythology/Fairytale Category.
Literary Titan Gold Book Award

Snow has always been the perfect princess or at least the best that she could be. She had done everything correctly for fifteen whole years and had always righted every single wrong that she had ever committed. Though, it still wasn't enough. On the eve of her fifteenth birthday, her father divulges a secret that her parents had kept from her since the very beginning. One that could ruin her life forever. The fact that she was cursed at birth by an evil sorceress who cast a spell that is nearly impossible to break. Snow will find that the line between good and evil is not all that it is cut out to be. It is blurred, and it has faded from the black and white that it once was. Good is not always pure, and evil is not always wicked. Throughout her adventures, battles, and difficulties she quickly discovers that she might not be on the side that she thought she was on. Will she succumb to the fate that was forced upon her or live to see another day? Will she find the truth or just encounter lies? Will she remain pure as snow, or will her conscience falter as the trials of her life wear on? Will she live happily ever after or have her future unjustly stolen from her grasp? The future is up to Snow.

What a wonderful surprise! I grew up with fairy tales and legends of many kinds. We watched all of the versions on TV, every Sunday night. Before cable and streaming were available. Yes, I am that old.
Blending so many different stories into a fresh vision is spectacular! I enjoyed the story a lot, great fun!
Read this book, you will enjoy it!
I am picky about certain things, so I award four point seven stars.

You can buy this book:
https://www.willarfinneganbooks.net
https://www.amazon.com/Snow-Cursed-Willa-R-Finnegan-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-snow-cursed
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/snow-cursed-willa-r-finnegan
https://mailchimp/snow-cursed-book
https://www.walmart.com/Snow-Cursed-Paperback
And many other online retailers.

You can follow the author:
https://x.com/writerfinnegan1
https://www.willarfinneganbooks.net
https://www.facebook.com/people/Writer-Willa-R-Finnegan
All of the author's links:
http://linktr.ee/wrfauthorgirl

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction.

]]><![CDATA[A Tatterdemalion's Testimony by Sarah Vigue]]>Fri, 14 Nov 2025 23:51:07 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/a-tatterdemalions-testimony-by-sarah-vigueOne Woman’s Story of Surviving Trauma to Discover Faith and Redemption

Debut author, Sarah Vigue introduces us to her testimony about being abused as a child, her involvement with magic and New Age practices, and how God rescued her from generational curses:
"There are things I need to tell you—or rather, things I’m not supposed to tell you."

Battered by trauma and surrounded by mental illness, Sarah didn’t expect God to come for her. Then He did. This unflinching Christian memoir traces a gritty path from skepticism to surrender—and the healing that followed.

In this gritty yet grace-filled testimony, Sarah shares her reluctant journey into faith. Skeptical of the church and terrified of the unseen, she steps into a spiritual world she never imagined—one that challenges her doubts, identity, and sense of belonging. Along the way, she discovers the God who sees, heals, and redeems even the most shattered places.

What You’ll Experience in A Tatterdemalion’s Testimony:

An honest account of trauma and mental illness that doesn’t minimize pain or hope.

A raw, unfiltered story of survival and the search for meaning.
How faith walked with, not around, the hardest moments.
A vulnerable journey from skepticism to belief, showing that doubts can be transformed.
A reminder that no one is too far gone to be remade by God’s grace.
Hope for anyone who has ever felt on the outside looking in.
Practical glimpses of healing, community, and God’s nearness in the dark.

This memoir is not a pretty picture to start. It is full of gritty details about the author's childhood and the extreme abuses she suffered throughout her life.
Her rescue and redemption began with a whisper that God is really good, not the killjoy so many think He is. The author shares many of her spiritual struggles in breaking free from the black magic embedded in the deceptive practices of New Age thought. We witness her defeats and victories that lead to her experiencing the abundant life promised in the Holy Bible to all.
The victory Sarah experiences is available to all.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Tatterdemalions-Testimony-Surviving-Discover-Redemption
https://www.goodreads.com/-a-tatterdemalion-s-testimony-by-sarah-vigue
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/a-tatterdemalions-testimony-sarah-vigue

You can connect with the author:
https://sarahvigue.com
https://x.com/sarahlaceyvigue
https://www.facebook.com/sarahlvigue
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahlvigue/
https://www.pinterest.com/slv1982
https://www.instagram.com/sarahvigue
http://www.tiktok.com/@sarahlvigue
https://www.youtube.com/@sarahvigue

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction

]]><![CDATA[Auntie Renita’s Galactic Motel by Gary Alan Henson]]>Thu, 06 Nov 2025 15:46:26 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/auntie-renitas-galactic-motelRooms to let for all Species

Multi-genre, multi-volume, author Gary Henson introduces us to his humorous, sci-fi story about unexpected adventures in a small corner of the galaxy, “Auntie Renita’s Galactic Motel”:
It's 2323 and the Galaxies are booming with Tourists!
Plouton II is a thriving planet of Galactic diversity in the Andromeda Galaxy.
Interstellar travelers across the Universe visit and do what all intelligent beings do... look for a motel.
Auntie Re's has fresh bed sheets and hot tubs of lava!
Enjoy your stay!

This story was fun to read. I love how Jake and Arlo have changed since I read "Arlo and Jake Enlist."
No matter where in the universe our heroes go, there will always be greedy bad guys who need to be brought to justice. Jake and Arlo are the human and sentient chameleon to do the job.
I can't share any more details without breaking my promise of no spoilers. Read the story and enjoy the ride. Maybe you can drive one of the hover bikes. ;-)
I award 4.7 stars because I am picky about certain things.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Auntie-Renitas-Galactic-Motel
https://www.goodreads.com/book/-auntie-renita-s-galactic-motel

You can follow the author:
https://x.com/garyalanhenson
http://garyalanhenson.blogspot.com
https://bsky.app/profile/mrgort.bsky.social

I have reviewed another book by the author:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/arlo-and-jake-enlist

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction.

]]><![CDATA[Matthew Fish and Kristopher Yoshihara, author and musician]]>Sun, 26 Oct 2025 19:05:55 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/matthew-fish-and-kristopher-yoshiharaToday, I am doing something new. I am introducing a client who has written over 40 books, and I am introducing a talented musician who has a popular YouTube channel. They are one and the same person.
Matthew told me he was very sick during the promotion of his book, “All the Best Roads Still Lead West” in December 2020. Privately, he told me he had a very aggressive form of cancer and was concerned about how much time he had left to live. I thought he had died because I didn’t hear from him until the latter half of 2025.
Kristopher has an interesting sound. His music has a gentle rhythm and a pleasant melody. The vocals are soft, also. His music is easy to listen to. Here are the cover of an album, a picture of the band, a track from the album titled “I Just Want to Do It All Again” and the picture Matthew uses on his YouTube channel below that:

You can buy his books here:
https://www.amazon.com/matthew-fish-books

Here is the review and interview we had for his book, “All the Best Roads Still Lead West”: https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/all-the-best-roads-lead-west
His author X account: https://x.com/Matthew_MFish

Here is his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KristopherYoshihara

His musician X account: https://x.com/Kristopher21320
His musician Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/kristopher.yoshihara

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz, except for the musician’s music and art

]]><![CDATA[Recreational Murder by Royce Wilson]]>Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:21:03 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/recreational-murder-by-royce-wilsonA Detective Riley Scott Novel

Multi-volume, law enforcement forensics detective Royce Wilson introduces us to “Recreational Murder”:
Some murders are for hire. Others are for fun.
Tampa Detective Riley Scott thinks he's working a local homicide—until the FBI shows up with chilling news: his case is part of a nationwide killing spree. The murderer is using the dark web to take contracts on some victims… while choosing others at random, just for the thrill.
When a former Tampa cop is abducted, the manhunt becomes personal. Racing against a sadistic timeline, Scott and the FBI must decipher the killer’s twisted logic before another body drops—this time, one of their own.

An amazing story! Law enforcement procedurals are becoming a favorite sub-genre for me. I already like cozy mysteries a great deal, but the procedural aspect of the story is fascinating. The grief they experience over unsolved cases is nearly palpable.
Their dedication to uphold the law is quite admirable. How often do they reach a breaking point, and are the rigid boundaries flexible? This story attempts to shine some light on that issue.
This book is written so well that I felt like I was looking over the detective's shoulder.
No spoilers from me so I can say no more, other than read this book!
I give 4.9 stars.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Recreational-Murder-Royce-Wilson-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-recreational-murder-royce-wilson

You can connect with the author:
https://twitter.com/royce_csi
https://www.roycewilsonmysteries.com
https://www.facebook.com/royce.wilson
https://www.instagram.com/royce_wilson_csi

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction

]]><![CDATA[Arlo and Jake Enlist: The Adventure Begins! by Gary Alan Henson]]>Thu, 09 Oct 2025 14:37:58 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/arlo-and-jake-enlistMulti-genre, multi-volume author Gary Henson introduces us to the first volume of five of the Adventures of Jake and Arlo, Arlo and Jake Enlist:
Jake's retirement consists of beer, brats, watching beach bunnies pass by his patio deck and trading wisecracks with Arlo, his pet chameleon. OK, so it's a one-sided exchange, Jake doesn't mind. That all changes when they are conscripted into service for the Federation of Thirteen Galaxies. (Twelve actually. They lost one of the Galaxies but it's too expensive to change all the letterhead, so there you go.) Book One, 'Arlo and Jake Enlist', follows the adventures of our dippy duo as they are snapped off the beach and into service as ABSs (Able Bodied Spacemen).

Hilarious story! I laughed hard in many parts of this book. The story is very entertaining. Jake is out of his league in more ways than one. Pretty much every situation Jake finds himself in requires medical attention of one kind or another. For an old submariner, he pulls it together at crunch time.
I love science fiction; it's my top, favorite genre, and this story does everything right to keep the pole position.
I can't say more without revealing spoilers. Read this book!
I award 4.8 stars because I am picky about certain things.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Arlo-Jake-Enlist-adventure-begins-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-arlo-and-jake-enlist
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/arlo-and-jake-gary-alan-henson

You can follow the author:
https://x.com/garyalanhenson
http://garyalanhenson.blogspot.com
https://bsky.app/profile/mrgort.bsky.social

I have reviewed another book by the author:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/auntie-renitas-galactic-motel

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction.

]]><![CDATA[Just What the Doctor Hired]]>Fri, 03 Oct 2025 23:09:16 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/just-what-the-doctor-hired(Plus One Book 2) by Amanda Nelson and Lisa-Marie Potter

Student Autumn Haze’s motto is: no men until she completes her bachelor of nursing degree. Years before, Autumn learned the hard way men are just a distraction she can’t afford until she’s established her career and what she wants. While moonlighting as a Plus One companion pays the bills, she struggles to follow her rules after meeting her newest contract. Pediatric Hospitalist Jensen Edwards is still recovering from a bad breakup that left him the talk of the hospital. Now he’s receiving a best doctor’s award, but after he hires Autumn as his plus one, Jensen is on edge. If word gets out that he hired a companion, rumors are bound to circulate, making work unbearable—again. Their chemistry as a fake couple is undeniable, but can a chance at a real relationship override their fear of commitment?

What a fabulous story! This second volume in the series did not disappoint in any way. It was every bit as entertaining as the first book. The roles were flipped from the first book and that made it all the more fun to read!
No spoilers from me, I promise, so that limits what I can say. I found the supporting cast to be as authentic as the main characters, even the nearly silent one!
Read this book, you will enjoy it, make no mistake about that.
4.9 stars from me. I am picky about certain things!

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Just-What-Doctor-Hired-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/just-what-the-doctor-hired
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/just-what-the-doctor-hired
and many other fine online platforms

I reviewed the first book in the Plus One series:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/men-in-books-arent-better

You can connect with the authors:
https://www.nelsonpotter.com
https://x.com/ANelsonLMPotter
https://www.instagram.com/anelson.lmpotter
https://www.threads.com/@anelson.lmpotter
https://www.tiktok.com/@nelsonpotterduo

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz except for the authors’ introduction

]]><![CDATA[The Bookbinder's Apprentice: and other Impossible Love Stories by P. J. Braley]]>Sat, 27 Sep 2025 17:10:19 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-bookbinders-apprentice-by-pj-braleyMulti-genre, multi-volume author PJ Braley introduces us to her quartet of unusual love stories, “The Bookbinder's Apprentice: and other Impossible Love Stories”:

What makes love “impossible”?

Is it the place, time, or the people involved? Or not believing that—in every life—there exists a moment when unquenchable desires can be ignited by the casual smile of a stranger, a moment’s misjudgment, or the serendipity of being in the right place at the right time?

Is it fate or fantasy?

A woman seeking knowledge in a foreign land returns home with more memories than she ever thought possible.
A selfish and ambitious man, allowing himself to fall in love for a single day, alters the rest of his existence.
Attempting to satisfy her curiosity, a woman stumbles into a place where love is rare, and happily-ever-afters are forbidden, yet cannot find it in her heart to leave the man she finds there.
An enduring affair has become so dangerous that a woman must destroy her desire to protect herself and everyone she loves.

P.J. Braley weaves the answers to these questions and scenarios into a collection of four unforgettable love stories that might be impossible, but, perhaps, after touching the hearts and minds of hopeful romantics, they may seem “possible” after all.

This quartet of unusual, romantic stories is superbly written! The author's skillful handling of the English language places her in rare company. Each story defies the normal bounds of the genre and delights me to no end.
The title story is my favorite because I served as a printer's apprentice and learned a little about the ins and outs of movable type. I was startled by the conclusion of that story.
I wholeheartedly give a solid, five-star rating to The Bookbinder's Apprentice. I only find such a perfectly written book once a year.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Bookbinders-Apprentice-other-Impossible-Stories-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/the-bookbinder-s-apprentice-braley
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/the-bookbinders-apprentice-and-other-impossible-love-stories-braley

You can connect with the author:
https://x.com/PJBraley
https://pjbraley.com/
www.instagram.com/pjbraley
www.facebook.com/PJBraleyAuthor
https://.pjbraley.bsky.social

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction

]]><![CDATA[The Creative Mind of a Jewelry Designer: Inspiration, Passion, and the Journey to Your Creative Self by Alene Geed]]>Fri, 19 Sep 2025 22:35:30 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-creative-mind-of-a-jewelry-designer-by-alene-geedMulti-volume author and jewelry designer, Alene Geed introduces us to her latest book, “The Creative Mind of a Jewelry Designer: Inspiration, Passion, and the Journey to Your Creative Self”:
The Creative Mind of a Jewelry Designer shares the eight strategic steps to discovering your passion and taking your own creative journey. Beautiful color photos of unique jewelry pieces and of gemstones in the Gemstone Myths section make this book a visual delight.
-Discover the uniqueness of being a jewelry designer
-Appreciate and celebrate your creative personality
-Create your own passionate life
-Increase your powers of observation
-Examine the source of your inspiration
-Develop perspective that takes you far beyond your career
-Learn strategies for personal growth
-Master the eight steps to begin your own creative journey.

I expected to see pictures of beautiful, handmade jewelry, and I wasn't disappointed! What I didn't expect was a journey of discovery for the author's creative passions. I also didn't expect to be invited to discover my own passions in life. What a wonderful surprise!
My thanks to the author for helping me identify some of the most important things in my life. I felt my creativity was nonexistent or very limited. I learned otherwise.
Read this book and prepare yourself for a wonderful adventure!

You can buy this book:
http://www.alenesadornments.com
https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Mind-Jewelry-Designer
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-creative-mind-of-a-jewelry-designer

You can follow the author:
https://x.com/AleneJewelry
http://www.alenesadornments.com
https://facebook.com/alenesadornments
https://www.pinterest.com/alenegeed
https://www.instagram.com/alenesadornments
https://www.youtube.com/alenesadornments

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction

]]><![CDATA[The Sasquatch Chronicles by Scott Patterson]]>Wed, 03 Sep 2025 14:19:30 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-sasquatch-chroniclesMulti-volume, multi-genre author Scott Patterson introduces us to “The Sasquatch Chronicles”:
John sets out for a quiet hunting trip, expecting cold air, open sky, a few beers with a friend, and maybe a good story to tell. It’s a trip they’ve taken many times before. It was meant to be a simple escape. Time in the wilderness, familiar ground, and a chance to fill the freezer with meat. But deep in the forest, something ancient is watching. Something that has survived in secret and hidden from the world.
A violent encounter leaves him bloodied and shaken. When John regains consciousness, he’s no longer in the world he knows. He’s being held in a secret mountain stronghold by a tribe of beings more intelligent and far more terrifying than legend ever claimed. As fear begins to shift, he questions everything he thought he knew about myth, survival, and the boundaries of his own mind.
Caught between two worlds, John must walk the narrow path between survival and trust. With each day that passes, he faces a decision that could cost him his life. Fight for freedom, or become part of something far older and more powerful than he ever imagined.

Such an interesting book! I loved it. I am committed to not revealing spoilers! There is so much I want to say and can't without breaking my own rule.
This is not your average cryptid story. This is in a field by itself. There are monsters in the story, but I won't be the one to tell you who they are.
This book is written quite well. There is a good balance among action, dialogue and description.
Read the book, you won't be sorry.
I give 4.7 stars because I am picky about certain things.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Sasquatch-Chronicles-Scott-Patterson-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-sasquatch-chronicles
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/the-sasquatch-chronicles-scott-patterson

You can connect with the author:
https://x.com/PattersonAuth
https://scottpatterson-author.com
http://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-patterson-91879931

Tags: action and adventure, cryptids, fantasy, mythical animals, Bigfoot
Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction.

]]><![CDATA[Project Threshold: Season Two: Operation Rogue Weather by Craig Crawford]]>Sun, 17 Aug 2025 19:02:50 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/operation-rogue-weather-by-craig-crawfordMulti-volume, horror-and-science-fiction author Craig Crawford introduces us to the finale of the second season of the Project Threshold series, “Operation Rogue Weather”:
Things blow out of control as an unnatural storm manifests and starts eating everything in its path. Team Berger and Riker arrive on the scene, their last communication with Talise pinpoints her at the center of the storm. They have no choice but to wade inside, hoping they can find Talise’s team and figure how to stop this force before it rolls over the Earth. Except none of them count on having to confront a dark goddess . . .

I am digging this series so much! The construction of the stories are wonderful. We get to read only the good stuff. Most of the boring and in-transit material has been left out. The character lineup changes in each story with the main characters present most of the time. Some of their discussions and reactions when faced with the weird and usually dangerous critters are quite enjoyable. I am glad they are on the job because I am not sure I could handle it.
4.9 stars because I am picky about certain things.

]]><![CDATA[Men in Books Aren’t Better by Amanda Nelson and Lisa-Marie Potter]]>Sun, 10 Aug 2025 16:18:02 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/men-in-books-arent-betterAward-winning, multi-volume, co-writing team Amanda Nelson and Lisa-Marie Potter introduce us to the first volume of their Plus One series, “Men in Books Aren’t Better”:

Pressured by her looming deadline and an unfinished romance manuscript, author Molly Covington applies her immersive research skills and goes all in. She hires a male companion for inspiration during three days of research in Las Vegas.

Enter sexy, confident Jared Washington—an extreme sports enthusiast and relationship skeptic who moonlights as a Plus One male companion. Molly’s contract puts him within arm’s reach of buying his own business and making his dreams come true.

The chemistry between her and Jared is surprisingly easy. Before their Vegas rendezvous comes to an end, one of them will need to lay all their cards on the table to discover if they’ll be lucky in love.

These authors can WRITE! I loved this story. It is wonderfully written in alternating points of view chapters, and I enjoy that style of writing a lot. It is so intimate, and the characters come across so real. I am committed to not giving away spoilers, but I could gush about this story quite a bit. Read this book, I'm sure you won't be disappointed.
4.9 stars from me.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Men-Books-Arent-Better-Plus-One-ebook
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/men-in-books-arent-better-Nelson-Potter
https://www.goodreads.com/-men-in-books-aren-t-better
and many other fine online platforms

I reviewed the second book in the Plus One series:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/just-what-the-doctor-hired

You can connect with the authors:
https://www.nelsonpotter.com
https://x.com/ANelsonLMPotter
https://www.instagram.com/anelson.lmpotter
https://www.threads.com/@anelson.lmpotter
https://www.tiktok.com/@nelsonpotterduo

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz except for the authors’ introduction

]]><![CDATA[Home Is Where the Truth Is by Maeve Jemison]]>Sun, 03 Aug 2025 19:56:31 GMThttps://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/home-is-where-the-truth-isWhy You Can and Should Homeschool Your Child

Speaker and podcaster Maeve Jemison introduces us to her debut book on Amazon, “Home Is Where The Truth Is”:
Today’s youth have a lot going against them as they trudge onto their school campuses. Sitting in cold, hard desks they’re force-fed facts that quickly zap the joy of discovery right out of them. Next, they’re indoctrinated with progressive ideologies meant to sexualize them and incite hatred for America. The fear of a gunman kicking in their classroom door constantly looms in the back of their mind. This is the loneliest, most anxious, and depressed young generation our world has possibly ever seen. Oh, and on top of all that...they might not really be a boy or a girl.
You can keep subjecting your kids to the poison, or you can bring them home to flourish. This book gives you the pro tips and encouragement to discover what millions of other parents already have: the best thing for their families is to take back control of their lives and their children’s education.
So what’s stopping you?

• You fear that your children won’t be adequately socialized?
• You don’t have the patience, organizational skills, or time?
• Homeschoolers are just weird!

This book dispels those lies and fifteen others that society erroneously believes. Ahead of you awaits a family bond you never imagined possible, and the role of primary guide for your child down the path God created them for. Even though it starts in your living room, this mission will be far-reaching. At the very least, your impact will be felt down to your grandchildren’s generation. At most, to all of eternity.

This wonderful book pulls back the curtain and exposes the lies that people have spread about homeschooling!
The author presents a logical case for the explosion of homeschooling in recent years. She shares her and others' experiences as she carefully deals with each misconception about homeschooling. She offers a lot of good advice and practical tips to be a successful homeschooling parent.
Being flexible is key.

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Home-Where-Truth-Should-Homeschool-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/home-where-truth
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/home-is-where-the-truth-is-maeve-jemison

You can connect with the author:
https://maevejemison.com/
podcast links on her website.
https://www.instagram.com/maevejemison

Copyright © 2025 Mark L. Schultz, except for the author’s introduction

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