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​book reviews

Gone in an Instant: Losing my son. Loving his killer. by Tammy Horvath

7/30/2022

129 Comments

 
Debut author, Tammy Horvath introduces us to “Gone in an Instant”:
How Do You Forgive the One Person in Your Life Impossible to Forgive?
On August 2, 2017, a knock on Tammy Horvath’s front door shattered her world.
“Your son has been murdered,” a police officer said in a quiet voice.
As she struggled through the horror of the following months, another Voice spoke. “Forgiveness is a choice and you must forgive him, Tammy.”

But How? What Would You Do? How Would You Find the Strength to Forgive the Killer and Have Faith After Loss?

How Do You Deal With Grief and Get Help to Go On Living After Losing Someone You Love?


In this deeply moving and ultimately triumphant Christian book about child loss, Tammy shares the story of how God revealed Himself in astounding ways and set her free in a manner she could never have imagined. Tammy got through the pain and grief of losing her only child to murder, and so can you.

Gone in an Instant is for you, if
  • There’s a person you just can’t figure out how to forgive.
  • You forgive but slip back into unforgiveness.
  • You want to be free, once and for all, of all the things you haven’t forgiven yourself for.
  • You’ve lost a loved one and don’t want to continue living.
  • You feel like you are all alone and no one cares about you.
  • You want help, but you don’t know where to turn.
You don’t need to be held down by the chains of unforgiveness any longer.

Can you believe that? It’s true! You can absolutely be set free. With insight, humor, and deep authenticity, Tammy will take you on a journey that will utterly change your life forever. You’ll find the self-help you need and the grief steps after child loss.

Tammy’s heart breaks for you if you are experiencing any of these emotions.

Please come alongside her and learn from her. You are loved, and you have a purpose.
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How is it possible to forgive the person who murdered your son? I cannot think of many more dreadful situations to exact vengeance than making the person who killed your child pay.
The author clearly describes this problem because she lived through it. She faced her son's death and came through it with the support of many loving people and our heavenly Father. She could have made it without the former but not the latter.
We have all lost loved ones at one time or another but not often to personal violence. Many of us have lost our loved ones to a disease or an unrecoverable accident, we had time to say our goodbyes, which is very comforting for us who are left behind.
I loved this book, it encouraged my faith and brought me to tears more than once. There are many lessons to be gained, not the least of which is that we are not islands in a stream. Our lives and our choices are intertwined with others.
If you want to know more then read the book.
I give "Gone in an Instant" 5 stars!

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Gone-Instant-Losing-Loving-killer
https://www.goodreads.com/-gone-in-an-instant
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/gone-in-an-instant-tammy-horvath
 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/thorvathauthor 
http://www.tammyhorvath.com 
https://www.instagram.com/tammyhorvathauthor 
https://www.facebook.com/Tammy-Horvath-Author 
https://www.pinterest.com/TammyHorvathAuthor 
https://www.youtube.com/channel/Tammy Horvath 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammy-horvath 

 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction 
129 Comments

On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series Book 3) by Jay Veloso Batista

7/16/2022

0 Comments

 
Multi-volume author Jay Veloso Batista introduces us to the third volume of his paranormal historical fiction in The Forerunner Series: “On Viking Seas”:
From Cornish pit mines to Jorvik back alleys, from the Mercian Court to beyond the North Sea, the Agneson clan continues their adventures across Midgard and the 9 realms: Scheming aldermen, duplicitous monks, slave drivers, dark elves, trolls, ghosts, shapeshifting witches, the legendary Norse Wild Hunt, and… a dragon! With the fall of the Danish army at the battle of Ethandun, historical events scatter the Agneson family: Cub is enslaved in the Devonshire tin mines while Sorven stalks retribution in Jorvik; Kara is unwillingly propelled toward a convenient Saxon marriage while Karl and his crew are castaway on a mythic floating island. Separated and marooned, each is forced to tackle their challenges alone while the forerunner Thorfinn faces supernatural revenge, a battle to lift a Jarl’s curse and the release of his Jotenhiem wyrm in Midgard! Can Cub escape his overseers in the tin pits of Devon? Can Kara evade her Saxon uncle’s plans for her marriage? Will Sorven succeed in his bloody revenge? Can Finn save a Jarl’s daughter and break a mysterious curse? Can the forerunner find and help his scattered family overcome their trials? And what can Finn do with… a pet dragon?!? Based on actual historical events and authentic legends, this epic fantasy follows the paths of the sons and daughters of Agne, Son of Ironfist in the Viking Era circa the year 880. Don’t miss this grand panoramic tale!

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Not only is the series getting better with each volume the characters are growing and evolving, I think Kara is my favorite character. There are dark moments that add some great depth to the story, especially for Cub, the oldest son, I think he gets the worst of it. There are lighthearted moments also, the humor isn't gone.
The settings and action are to be commended also; they add so much to the plot lines. The setup for the next volume promises to be very exciting!
If you like historical fiction stories with an exciting, paranormal angle that fits perfectly in the story age, then you will love this book and the series, indeed.
4.8 stars from me.
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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Viking-Seas-Forerunner-Book-ebook/
https://www.goodreads.com/book/-on-viking-seas 

My review of the first book, “Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse”: https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/thorfinn-and-the-witchs-curse 
My review of the second book, “The Vardoger Boy”: https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-vardoger-boy 

 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/JayVBatista
https://www.jayvelosobatista.com
http://www.amazon.com/author/jayvelosobatista
http://www.facebook.com/jayvelosobatista
http://www.instagram.com/jayvelosobatista
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jay-veloso-batista
https://www.goodreads.com/JayVelosoBatista
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction 
0 Comments

Maestro by Melissa Rea

7/9/2022

53 Comments

 
Multi-volume, multi-genre author, Melissa Rea introduces us to her steamy, historical-fiction tale about love and betrayal in old Venice, “Maestro”:
Gabriella stands on a gallows one day before her 19th birthday in 1718. She tells her story to a young blacksmith, a surly milkmaid, and a mute dwarf who is much more than the muckraker he seems.
 
The pampered daughter of a count, Gabriella's entire existence has been her music, until one afternoon's sensual exploration leads to the shame of two noble families and her exile to a convent school for orphan girls, the Ospedale della Pieta in Venice, Italy. Antonio Vivaldi, the school's Maestro of the Concerto, teaches the students and composes inspired by their talent and beauty.

She tells of her friend, Veronica, a sublimely talented violinist whose cold eyes hide tragic secrets and of whose murder she now stands convicted. With tears in her eyes, she speaks of her love, Raphael, the handsome overseer whom she had planned to marry. The story of her desperate attempt to learn the truth of a terrible curse that took her own child's life, and save Veronica from a dark affair, holds the crowd's rapt attention.

Now she must escape with the help of her friends, from the Ospedale, and perhaps those in the crowd assembled to watch her hang.

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I enjoyed the story so much. It is rich, like a wonderful dessert that requires time for each bite. This is an exciting and seductive story. The premise draws you in with a shot of sympathy for the woman who was facing being hanged that very day. But the executioner was absent. She faces a hostile crowd and begins to relate the story of her life that led to the charge of murder of which she proclaims her innocence.
This story is so compelling, that it's hard to put it down. Descriptions are opulent without being overbearing, much of the dialogue is quite enticing and the action is plentiful. I found the balance of this three-legged stool to be very even and the story was very enjoyable for it.
The author does a marvelous job of incorporating all of the senses.
I will say no more to avoid spoilers.
"Maestro" is a sensual feast and gets 4.8 stars from me.

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Maestro-Melissa-Rea-ebook 
https://www.goodreads.com/-maestro 
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/maestro-melissa-rea 
https://www.smashwords.com/maestro 
 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/author_rea 
http://www.melissareaauthor.com 
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction.

53 Comments

The Vardoger Boy (Forerunner Series Book 2)   by Jay Veloso Batista

7/2/2022

49 Comments

 
Multi-volume author Jay Veloso Batista introduces us to the second volume of his paranormal historical fiction in The Forerunner Series: “The Vardoger Boy”:
A 2020 WISHING SHELF BOOK AWARDS RED RIBBON WINNER! Vikings war with the last Saxon Kingdom, blood feuds stalk the family, the werebear takes revenge and our forerunner hero must face trolls, a kelp man and his nuggles, and a dark elf… The epic adventures of the Agneson Clan continue! The year is 878… Danish forces assemble for war on Wessex and the loyal Agneson Clan heeds the call to join the Great Viking Horde, but while honorable men gather in the midlands, a blood feud draws mercenaries to their undefended homestead for murderous revenge. Sailing his Viking crew to fulfil their oath, Karl harbors suspicions over strange occurrences that bedevil his nephew Thorfinn, while far to the north their sworn enemy the werebear and his dark elf master strike back… And the young forerunner Thorfinn learns the Nine Realms are full of surprising hidden folk, but to earn his place aboard the Viking’s ship he must accept a mast troll’s quest…. Will the family escape the despicable vendetta? Can Thorfinn face the evils prowling the bottom of the Humber Estuary? Does Cub battle to victory against King Alfred’s men? How can Karl and his Vikings find and defeat a mysterious lair of were-beasts? The epic saga of Thorfinn the forerunner and his clan in Danelaw England continues…. Don’t miss The Vardoger Boy, second book of The Forerunner Series by Jay Veloso Batista, historical fantasy and supernatural suspense! if you love the work of Bernard Cornwall, Susanna Clarke or Elizabeth May, then this will have you turning the pages!

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I love this book; I love the series! The author has crafted a wonderful continuation of the first book. He has some wonderful dialogue; it rings so true to each character's station in life. The action is glorious at times and easy to read. I am enjoying learning about the Viking myths and lore regarding their gods and supernatural beings.
Jay is so good at weaving in lots of details about everyday life for people of this age along with the paranormal elements which they easily accepted as a part of their lives.
Following multiple plot threads, the story of the Agneson family continues. I can hardly wait to read the next book!
4.9 stars!

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Vardoger-Boy-Forerunner-Book-ebook 
https://www.goodreads.com/book/-the-vardoger-boy 

My review of the first book, "Thorfinn and the Witch's Curse":
​www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/thorfinn-and-the-witchs-curse 

My review of the third book, “On Viking Seas”: https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/on-viking-seas 

You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/JayVBatista 
https://www.jayvelosobatista.com 
http://www.amazon.com/author/jayvelosobatista 
http://www.facebook.com/jayvelosobatista 
http://www.instagram.com/jayvelosobatista 
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jay-veloso-batista 
https://www.goodreads.com/JayVelosoBatista 
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction 
49 Comments

The Accursed King (The Plantagenet Legacy Book 4) by Mercedes Rochelle

6/18/2022

51 Comments

 
Multi-volume, multi-genre author, Mercedes Rochelle introduces us to the fourth volume in “The Plantagenet Legacy” series, “The Accursed King”:
What happens when a king loses his prowess? The day Henry IV could finally declare he had vanquished his enemies, he threw it all away with an infamous deed. No English king had executed an archbishop before. And divine judgment was quick to follow. Many thought he was struck with leprosy—God's greatest punishment for sinners. From that point on, Henry's health was cursed and he fought doggedly on as his body continued to betray him—reducing this once great warrior to an invalid. Fortunately for England, his heir was ready and eager to take over. But Henry wasn't willing to relinquish what he had worked so hard to preserve. No one was going to take away his royal prerogative—not even Prince Hal. But Henry didn't count on Hal's dauntless nature, which threatened to tear the royal family apart.

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I am a big fan of the author. Her books about all of these kings are so good! I confess that I zipped through this stuff in history class and was so happy when it was over. Mercedes has turned that all around for me. I really enjoy historical fiction and stories from history.
She takes the old and withered bones of history and brings them to life in a compelling and dramatic way! Her descriptions of traveling through towns on the way to battle or negotiation are first rate. She accounts for weather, geography and other impediments to human activities whether benign or nefarious.
Some of the historical characters are well known, others not nearly as much. She gives them all their proper due and allows them to be real humans, flaws and all. While the action sequences are quite good, the dialogue is what really locks it in for me.
Whether you like history or a political thriller this book is for you!

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Accursed-King-Plantagenet-Legacy-Book-ebook
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-accursed-king-mercedes-rochelle
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-accursed-king
 
You can follow the author:
http://www.twitter.com/authorrochelle
http://www.mercedesrochelle.com
http://www.mercedesrochelle.net
 
I have reviewed other books by this author:
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-usurper-king

https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/a-king-under-siege-book-one-of-the-plantagenet-legacy-by-mercedes-rochelle 
​
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-kings-retribution 

https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/heir-to-a-prophecy-by-mercedes-rochelle-narrated-by-kevin-e-green 

https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/godwine-kingmaker-part-one-of-the-last-great-saxon-earls-by-mercedes-rochelle​ 

https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-sons-of-godwine 

https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/fatal-rivalry-by-mercedes-rochelle 

Tags: history, biography, fiction, medieval, European, Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, France, historical, biographical,
 
Copyright © 2021 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction.

51 Comments

Thorfinn and the Witch's Curse           (Forerunner Series Book 1) By Jay Veloso Batista

6/11/2022

76 Comments

 
Multi-volume, historical fantasy fiction author, Jay Veloso Batista introduces us to the first volume of the Forerunner Series, “Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse”:
THE 2020 WISHING SHELF BRONZE MEDAL WINNER!
Viking legends, unforgettable characters and authentic history combine in an exciting series starter! Vikings and Saxons, ghostly curses, witches and soothsayers, dangerous were-creatures and a young boy who must find his courage! Danelaw life is good! Practicing martial skills, grumbling over chores, listening to scary stories and shadowing his brothers everywhere, Finn is a normal boy of ten in the Viking Kingdoms of ninth century England. A bit timid, his father plots his apprenticeship while the family prepares a grand wedding. Off to the North, his uncle sails home after years of exile. And unbeknownst to all, the ghost of an ancient mage sits sentinel over his clan freehold. But when a witch’s curse comes alive, a mishap turns young Finn into a vardoger, haunted by his own forerunner ghost. Suddenly thrust into a new realm beyond Midgard, Finn struggles to be a boy by day and a ghost at night. His own clan fears him, he overhears murder plots, he learns the truth of giants and the hidden folk, and the witch still hunts revenge… Will Finn find the courage to defeat his enemies, save his uncle, and accept his new half-ghostly existence? Don’t miss Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse, first book of The Forerunner Series by Jay Veloso Batista.

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This is such a good story. I was quite captivated by Finn and his Viking brothers and sisters. The author has such a good eye for detail that brings the story and the characters to life without burying me in extraneous information.
I love the dialogue and the plotting was very exciting.
Finn comes across as an ordinary, ninth-century, Viking boy looking for adventure. He finds far more than he expected when he sneaks off with a big brother and a friend to investigate a local legend about a witch.
If you like a touch of the supernatural and are interested in legends of old you are going to love this story!

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Thorfinn-Witchs-Curse-Forerunner-Saga-ebook 
https://www.goodreads.com/-thorfinn-and-the-witch-s-curse 
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/thorfinn-and-the-witchs-curse-jay-veloso-batista 

My review of the second book, "The Vardoger Boy":  www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-vardoger-boy 
My review of the third book, “On Viking Seas”: https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/on-viking-seas 

 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/JayVBatista 
https://www.jayvelosobatista.com 
http://www.amazon.com/author/jayvelosobatista 
http://www.facebook.com/jayvelosobatista 
http://www.instagram.com/jayvelosobatista 
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jay-veloso-batista 
https://www.goodreads.com/JayVelosoBatista 
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction 
76 Comments

The Douglas Bastard by J. R. Tomlin

6/4/2022

75 Comments

 

A sequel to The Black Douglas Trilogy

Multi-volume, multi-genre author introduces us to her latest work of historical fiction, “The Douglas Bastard” is the sequel to the Black Douglas trilogy:
King Robert the Bruce and the Black Douglas are dead — and Scots once more must fight for their freedom.

Young Archibald, the Black Douglas's bastard son, returns from exile to a Scotland ravaged by war. With treachery and danger on every side, he must learn to sleep with a claymore in his hand and one eye open because even his closest friend may betray him...

Content warning: violence against a child 

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This is a marvelous book! I love historical fiction it’s my third favorite genre. Books centered on the United Kingdom are particularly attractive to me because much of my heritage comes from there.
The author has taken a minor figure and walked with him through the major events he would have faced and been involved in. She did a great job!
I love how she wove so many minor details of daily life into the story. I felt I was right there with Archibald. His struggles with being the bastard son of a noble included repeated bullying by his peers. He held his own with even odds.
The fights, jousts and war scenes were brutal like daily life for most people. The dialogue came across quite real.
This is a great read and I award 4.9 stars.

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Douglas-Bastard-Sequel-Black-Trilogy-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-douglas-bastard 
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/the-douglas-bastard 
 
You can follow the author:
@JRTomlinAuthor
http://www.jrtomlin.com
http://jeannetomlin.blogspot.com
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction
75 Comments

At the Edge of the Jordan: What Waits for Us After This Life and Why It Matters                        by Leah Chrest

5/28/2022

52 Comments

 
Debut author, Leah Chrest introduces us to her fiction story about the afterlife:
What waits for us when we die? How can the truth of heaven revolutionize our faith?

In this unique work, Leah Chrest, a lifelong Christian, draws from both hundreds of near-death experiences and the Bible to create a captivating tale of faith and personal transformation. Based on the NDEs of Nancy Rynes, Rev. Howard Storm, Dr. Eben Alexander, Mary C. Neal, George Ritchie, and dozens more, Aislinn's story will answer your heart's deepest questions and inspire you to live a more peaceful, inspired, faith-filled life.

Journey with Aislinn, a young woman who is no stranger to grief, having lost her sister and grandparents in the span of just a few years. On her honeymoon, Aislinn drowns in a freak surfing accident. Her soul leaves her body and enters heaven, where she meets with Jesus and has the innermost questions of her soul answered:
  • What is the purpose of our life on Earth?
  • Why do good people suffer?
  • Do we have guardian angels? How can we feel their presence?
  • Is hell real?
  • What happens to our loved ones when we are separated by death?
  • What is life like in heaven?
  • What is the future of the Earth?
  • How can we live in connection to the Holy Spirit, as Jesus did?

If you have always wondered about near-death experiences, this well-researched narrative account will warm your heart and inspire you to live with deeper purpose and meaning.

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A fascinating story with tantalizing glimpses of what heaven and hell might be like. It’s an emotional rollercoaster at times with the death of loved ones and suffering being part of the story. Those darker moments are balanced with healings and connecting again with family members.
I found the footnotes to be interesting and they add a welcome depth to the story. I enjoyed them as an information junkie. However, you can enjoy the story quite well without reading any of the footnotes. The story easily stands on its own.
I give “At the Edge of the Jordan” 4.8 stars.

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/At-Edge-Jordan-Waits-Matters-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-at-the-edge-of-the-jordan
 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/ChristianMedit2
http://thecontemplativechristian.com
https://www.instagram.com/christianmedit2/
https://www.youtube.com/c/christianmeditation
https://www.facebook.com/christianmedit2
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction 

52 Comments

The Tales of Mr. Mouse and Friends                       by Jacqueline Mead

5/21/2022

3 Comments

 
Multi-volume, multi-genre author, Jacqueline Mead introduces us to her children’s book, “The Tales of Mr. Mouse and Friends”:
Join Mr. Mouse as he tends to his award-winning garden, makes friendships, meets Hilda his future wife, all the while drinking lots of tea and eating lots of cake. Mr. Mouse is a popular character whose door is always open, who is on hand to help anyone who needs assistance, who will rally around a worthwhile cause and who is highly thought of throughout the woodland community. Each chapter is a short story of its own and set in a season, there are twelve chapters following Mr. Mouse over three years. Read about the woodlands during a harsh winter when the woodlands are covered in six-foot snow drifts, during spring when the season is changing from winter, summer when Mr. Mouse’s award-winning gardens are at their best and autumn when the trees and plants are losing their leaves.
Mr. Mouse with a house on the River Louse will become a favourite bedtime story for your children.

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I enjoyed this book a lot. My two granddaughters did also. The casual rhyming was clever and the character names were pleasing.
I loved the illustrations also, they are soft, the pastels are easy on the eyes. Each chapter has a full-page illustration. They look nice even on my Kindle.
Each chapter is its own story. That makes for a pleasantly short read for bedtime, leaving time to answer questions a child might have.
The overarching theme of the book is that family and friends are important and worthy of attention. Another wonderful theme is caring for your surroundings and environment.
You are going to enjoy this peaceful visit to the river and woods where Mr. Mouse and his friends live.
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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Tales-Mr-Mouse-Friends-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-tales-of-mr-mouse-and-friends
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-tales-of-mr-mouse-and-friends-jacqueline-mead
 
You can follow the author:
@Jackiem158 
http://www.jacquelinemead.com 


Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction
3 Comments

Even Blue Birds Sing

5/14/2022

41 Comments

 

A Battered Mother’s Message to Her Son
by Karen Buyno, as told by Lisa Kobayashi 

Debut Amazon author, Karen Buyno introduces us to “Even Blue Birds Sing”:
Moved by newspaper reports of a family’s tragic plight, a prominent couple donated $50,000 to a Maine Family Crisis Services center. Even Blue Birds Sing recounts the true events behind those media reports, details that were not reported until the publication of this book, events that will cause you to question everything you thought you knew about domestic violence, the protection of children, and justice in America.
Lisa is a mother and the wife of a man who wants to kill her. She escapes through the assistance of an underground railroad of sorts, but what she doesn’t count on is a twist the law takes in declaring her one of America’s Most Wanted. Now she must evade not only the man who wants her dead, but also a justice system intent on sending her to prison.
This is a tale of a mother who sacrifices everything to ensure her son’s happiness. She wants to tell him what happened, if only she could….

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I wish this story was fiction. It is so gut wrenching and painful. It is true. Not just for Lisa but for many others.
The author did an amazing job of writing this story. It is clear and unflinching in describing the events that Lisa had to live through even from her early years as a child.
I can’t recommend this book enough, everyone in law enforcement, the justice system and first responders should read this book.
I award 5 stars to “Even Blue Birds Sing”.

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You can buy this book:
https://rdrpublishers.com/even-blue-birds-sing-by-karen-buyno
https://www.amazon.com/Even-Blue-Birds-Sing-Battered-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-even-blue-birds-sing 

Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction 

41 Comments

Travelling Without Moving by Nathan Jones

4/30/2022

34 Comments

 
A POST-APOCALYPTIC, CLOCKPUNK, DYSTOPIAN MYSTERY SCI-FI HOT FEVER DREAM TYPE-THING
Debut author, Nathan Jones introduces us to his mind-bending story, “Travelling without Moving”:
In a clockwork future, a skeptical young man challenges the very concept of reality.
Spurred on by visions of "reality", Napalm Carton creates a multiplayer game called Tickets, with the intention of opening a door to the next level of existence.
Earth is in ruins, uninhabitable, and the remaining population lives in bio-domes. Napalm, born into the Kaputt bio-dome, believes life in the clockwork habitat is a lie. Post-apocalyptic existence makes no sense to him, and all he wants to do is escape. Travelling Without Moving puts the punk ethos back into the punk genre; non-conformity and a do-it-yourself ethic.
A spellbinding punk adventure through a colourful world of exhaustive inventiveness.
Fear and Loathing in Wonderland. The Discworld meets Dr Who meets Naked Lunch

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Travelling Without Moving is quite an experience! The characters are so artfully brought to life in this drug-fueled story. The clockwork setting is consistent throughout the story and seems very natural after several chapters. Life for different nations/people groups is very different under a huge dome.
Some of the dialogue is quite funny and kept the story moving along at a good pace.
Napalm is determined to escape the dome to find the truth. He keeps finding clues that lead him to think their life in the dome is a lie and he wants the truth.
I enjoyed this story a lot and give 4.6 stars to Travelling Without Moving!

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You can buy this book:
https://smile.amazon.com/TRAVELLING-WITHOUT-MOVING-POST-APOCALYPTIC-TYPE-THING-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-travelling-without-moving

​You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/NathanJonesBook
https://theroadtonathan.com
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction 

34 Comments

Faith: Stories From The All by Shane Scott

4/9/2022

39 Comments

 
Multi-volume science fiction author, Shane Scott introduces us to his second book, “Faith: Stories From The All”:
In the year 3221, humanity teeters on the edge of annihilation. Devastated by religious crusades, evil government agencies, and disease, the world is populated with illiterate, superstitious people.

In a tiny country, agent Heather Marks fights for survival. Assisted by a strange AI salvaged a decade before, she is prepared and waiting for the apocalypse.

Brain rot arrives, and Heather rescues eight-year-old Sarah. That changes everything. A child was never part of the plan.

Can Heather overcome her own sense of self-preservation and take on a role she never prepared for? Or will everything crumble to dust at her feet?

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I loved this book!
This is a great story set in a post-apocalyptic world. I really like the protagonist, Heather, who is a woman. She rescues a child who may or may not be carrying a deadly disease. Heather alters her plans to survive the destruction of her society to include the child.
Heather is so resourceful, and she gets a lot of help from an extremely advanced AI.
There is cute dialogue and excellent action, enough to provide a great balance with the narration.
You are going to love this book! 

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Faith-Stories-All-Shane-Scott-ebook 
https://www.goodreads.com/-faith-stories-from-the-ALL 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Faith-Stories-All-Shane-Scott-ebook 

I also reviewed Shane’s first book, here is the review: https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-all-god-of-nothing 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/TheALLwriter 
https://www.facebook.com/TheALLwriter 

Copyright ©Mark L. Schultz 2022 except for the author’s introduction
39 Comments

Demons Hidden Within: Lifelong Impact of Child Sexual Abuse by Susan Montgomery

4/2/2022

0 Comments

 
Debut Amazon author, Susan Montgomery introduces us to her book, “Demons Hidden Within”:
This is Susan Montgomery’s true story of trauma, sexual abuse, abduction, an affair, and suicide. It is also a love story.
At age eleven, she suffered sexual abuse at the hands of her father. With virtually no resources available, she buried the memory, which seemed moderately successful in that she finished college, has been married to her childhood sweetheart for over 60 years, and had three wonderful children.
But as a young adult, her behavior began exhibiting self-destructive tendencies, the first being a life-threatening loss of weight down to 89 pounds. If queried, she would have been unable to explain this or her other aberrant behaviors.
Devastated by the suicide of her 16-year-old son, she sought psychotherapy, where she began to better understand the underpinnings of her bizarre behavior.
This quest became the basis of "Demons Hidden Within." A memoir written as an academic analysis of her life, Susan Montgomery cites 85 references from psychological literature to clearly link her strange behavior to the underlying but unrecognized effects of the sexual abuse.
In Susan’s true story, she bravely tells all and holds nothing back, including running away with her three children, a scary sudden abduction off the streets of Chicago, a non-romantic sexual affair with a friend, delivering two of her children at home — all of this in addition to her bout with anorexia and quest to heal from the sexual abuse and her son’s suicide.

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This story is not extremely graphic or descriptive in detail and I am thankful for that. It is horrendous enough to know that it is true and the effects are devastating enough. The author’s life was almost destroyed at several junctures due to her careless actions. It seems an internal switch can be flipped and common sense leaves the area. How else can one explain the nonsensical and self-destructive actions the author engaged in? She certainly was unable to offer any reasonable reasons. That is one of the big clues to DID, Dissociative Identity Disorder, the author points out herself. DID is seldom expressed the same way by any two individuals. It is frequently accompanied by unexplainable behavior and sometimes the person blacks out for periods of time.
As unsettling as it is, this memoir gets 5 stars from me for honesty and candor. 

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You can buy this book:
https://rdrpublishers.com/demons-hidden-within-lifelong-impact-of-child-sexual-abuse 
https://www.amazon.com/Demons-Hidden-Within 
https://www.goodreads.com/-demons-hidden-within 
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/demons-hidden-within-susan-montgomery 

Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author's introduction 

0 Comments

Elisabet’s Will by Sandra Sperling

3/25/2022

73 Comments

 
Multi-volume, multi-genre author, Sandra Sperling introduces us to her latest book, “Elisabet’s Will”:
The few relatives who are still friendly to Lisbet spend the summer at her northern Minnesota home. Determined to discover the reason why the rest of the family has shunned her since she was a child, she confronts Evelyn, her estranged uncle's wife. This action exposes her and her loved ones to danger and thrusts Greta, her beloved 5-year-old granddaughter, into deadly peril. 

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Oh, Mylanta! This is an amazing story about several generations of one family in Minnesota.
The story had a slow start for me. But I am so glad I kept reading. The author weaves a startling and clear tapestry about the depths of depravity some people in a family can sink to while other members of the same family remain normal. There are a lot of people in this family, many of them play an important part and all wonder what happened to the will of the matriarch, Elisabet.
This story has a delightful texture! The author has woven so many details about their daily lives and activities into the story that I feel like I know them all very closely. The intimacy is extraordinary and brilliantly portrayed.
I love this story about family life and you will too. "Elisabet's Will" gets five stars from me! 

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Elisabets-Will-Sandra-Sperling-ebook
It is also in Kindle Unlimited at this time, so it is not available on any other platform as of this date March 25, 2022.

You can follow the author:
@sandysperling3 
https://www.facebook.com/sisuforever
http://sandrasperling.com

 Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction.
73 Comments

Trailer Trauma: Trailer Park Travails Book 4 by Mary Lu Scholl

3/12/2022

51 Comments

 
Multi-volume, multi-genre author, Mary Lu Scholl introduces us to the fourth book in her Trailer Park Travails series, “Trailer Trauma”:Life in an over 55 Trailer Park in Florida can be murder. Patty Decker, a socially awkward widow moved in, and her neighbors keep leaving, the hard way. A misunderstood hussy dies and practically everyone has a motive... Patty has solved all the unexpected deaths in her park so far; but there WERE no unexpected deaths before she moved in! She closes in on her suspect, who has no choice but to "remove" Patty from the investigation. Will she live to sleuth again?
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I enjoy the author's writing style. This book, and the others in her series, are set in a 55+ trailer park in Florida. I am 55+ and now I live in Florida, but not in a trailer park hopefully anytime soon. I can relate to a lot of what Patty says or thinks, though my filter works a bit better than hers. Her conniving and hijinks make me laugh a lot. Sometimes I want to say what is on my mind just like Patty. Written as a cozy murder, all of Mary's books are fun to read!
​I award 4.7 stars!
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You can buy this book:https://www.amazon.com/Trailer-Trauma-Mary-Scholl-ebookhttps://www.goodreads.com/-trailer-traumahttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Trailer-Trauma-Mary-Scholl-ebook You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/MaryLScholl1 
https://maryluscholl.blogspot.com 
www.facebook.com/maryluschollauthor/ 

My review of the first book, “Camper Catastrophe” can be found here: 
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/camper-catastrophe-by-mary-lu-scholl
My review of the second book, “Mobile Mayhem” can be found here: Mobile Mayhem: Book Two of Trailer Park Travails by Mary Lu Scholl - Word RefinerMy review of the third book, “Birds, Bees and RVs” can be found here:
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/birds-bees-and-rvs-by-mary-lu-scholl

Tags: cozy, murder, mystery, Florida, pets, dog, cat, neighbors, fiction, action
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction 
51 Comments

Indomitable: The Story of Eliza Harris by J. D. Edwards

3/5/2022

80 Comments

 
Multi-volume, multi-genre author, J. D. Edwards introduces us to his latest book of historical fiction, “Indomitable”:
When Black voices are stifled, the reality is transformed into fiction, history is twisted into folklore, and heroes are turned into myths. Harriet Beecher Stowe published Uncle Tom's Cabin, holding a brief account of Eliza Harris, in 1853. Now, 170 years later, learn the actual tale of Eliza's harrowing escape from slavery and her unwavering bravery to live a life of freedom. Eliza risked everything to cross the semi-frozen Ohio River in the dead of night and save her baby from a slave's life.
Indomitable is a work of historical fiction based on real events and Eliza's firsthand narrative. While one branch of the author's family owned Eliza, the other branch risked their lives to rescue her. We cannot undo the past, but we can recount the tales of those who fought for liberty and assure that their sacrifice was not in vain.

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Based on a true story? Yes. More loosely based on thousands of true stories? Yes. Worthy of being on the reading list of every person interested in American or Canadian history.
Slavery has been a blot on humanity for many thousands of years. Slavery has existed in one form or another in almost every society on earth and continues right up to this day.
This story might make you angry and shake your soul. If it does, good. This story might make you marvel at the determination of one person to create a new life for herself and her son. That I-will-do-whatever-it-takes attitude is no less astounding than it was so long ago.
I loved this book, its story and its writing. Both are utterly fabulous! Mr. Edwards is one heck of a writer!
Be prepared to be shocked, enlightened and entertained. I certainly was. 5 stars for “Indomitable”!

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Indomitable-Harris-J-D-Edwards-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-indomitable
www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/indomitable-the-story-of-eliza-harris
 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/FaerieRealms
https://www.facebook.com/FaerieRealms
https://www.linkedin.com/in/twyrch
https://www.wattpad.com/user/FaerieRealms
https://www.instagram.com/twyrch
https://www.pinterest.com/twyrch
https://www.tiktok.com/@faerierealms
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction 

80 Comments

The Prisoner of Paradise by Rob Samborn

2/19/2022

54 Comments

 
Amazon debut author, Rob Samborn introduces us to his first book, “The Prisoner of Paradise”:
A 400-year-old murder. A disembodied whisper: "Amore mio." My love.

Nick and Julia O'Connor's dream trip to Venice collapses when a haunting voice reaches out to Nick from Tintoretto's Paradise, the world's largest oil painting. 

Though Julia worries her husband suffers from a delusion, Nick is adamant the voice belongs to a woman from the 16th century—his soul mate from a previous life. He discovers a religious order that has developed a method of extracting people's souls, which they imprison in Paradise. Over the centuries, they've judged thousands of souls and sentenced them to eternal purgatory.

As infatuation with the past clouds his commitment to a present-day wife, Nick must right an age-old wrong—destroy the painting and liberate his soul mate. But freeing her would allow all the souls to be reborn. 

The order will never let that happen. 

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Such an amazing and intense story! I have read a lot of time travel stories. This is not that. It is a past-life story. Is that a spoiler? I hope not, I try not to let spoilers leak out in my reviews.
When Nick and Julia land in Venice, on a dream vacation, they have no idea that they are on a collision course with the past! This fast-paced adventure begins to pick up steam when they visit a renowned art museum in Venice. Nick thinks he is losing his mind when he hears a voice calling to him from a famous painting that is several hundred years old. His wife, Julia, doesn't know what to think. Things go from bad to worse as a centuries-old conspiracy is slowly revealed and the married couple does not know who they can trust. The Order seems to be everywhere all the time.
A rollicking ride that veers from the present into the past over and over. You are going to love this book! It is so hard to put down!

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Prisoner-Paradise-Book-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-prisoner-of-paradise
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-prisoner-of-paradise-1
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/RobSamborn
https://robsamborn.com
https://www.facebook.com/RobSambornAuthor
https://www.instagram.com/robsamborn
 
Copyright ©2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction

54 Comments

The Caduca by Elaine Graham-Leigh

2/5/2022

76 Comments

 
Multi-volume, fiction and non-fiction author, Elaine Graham-Leigh introduces us to her latest science fiction novel “The Caduca”:
The planet of Benan Ty is just another poor and violent ex-Terran colony. Now the Chi!me, the major power in the galaxy, are coming to broker a peace deal between guerrilla group ViaVera and the government.
For Quila, a rising figure in the Chi!me diplomatic service, the posting to Benan Ty could be the making of her career. Meanwhile Terise, one of ViaVera's inner circle, is just trying to get her lover out with his life. But in a conflict where no side's motivations are pure, they are both about to discover how much they have to lose.
Set in a future where humanity has gone to the stars, but taken exploitation and oppression with them, this is a story of imperialism, resistance, friendship and ultimately, liberation.

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This story was a true pleasure to read. While there was quite a bit of narration each chapter was devoted to one or two main characters so the point of view kept changing and that increased my interest factor. Each person thought they were the hero in the story they were telling.
The story explored contrasting concepts such as loyalty and betrayal, love and loss, greed and benevolence. So many broad experiences are well represented in this story.
With many actors, this story is full of the human condition and is an excellent read!
I award 4.6 stars to "The Caduca".

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Caduca-Elaine-Graham-Leigh-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-caduca
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-caduca-elaine-graham-leigh
 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/egrahamleigh
https://redpuffin.net
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark Schultz except for the author’s introduction

76 Comments

Domestic Violence: Tragedy and Hope by Frances T. Pilch (ed)

1/8/2022

2 Comments

 
Multi-genre, multi-volume author Frances T. Pilch introduces us to her latest book, “Domestic Violence: Tragedy and Hope”:
Beginning with a discussion of the magnitude of the problem of domestic violence, the authors present a fictional narrative of "Suzanne," whose relationship with her intimate partner dissolves into abuse and violence, both physical and emotional. What follows is expert commentary on her story by law enforcement, a judge and former district attorney, victim advocate, therapist, and survivor, which provide a unique exploration of the tragedy of abuse and potential means by which it can be addressed. The main theme of the book is the tendency to "blame the victim" for staying in an abusive relationship and the need to understand why leaving can be so difficult and dangerous.

“This book, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: Tragedy and Hope, starts with a compelling domestic violence story. This book provides an analysis of the story by experienced and expert professionals from all the relevant fields to help us learn from the powerful story. I was especially interested in the law enforcement professional who said when police take a DV call the alleged abuser almost always lies. This interested me because family court professionals do not know what police experts know and so keep forcing children to live with abusers.”
~ Barry Goldstein, Author of The Quincy Solution: Stop Domestic Violence and save $500 Billion
and Scared to Leave, Afraid to Stay: Paths from Family Violence to Safety

“Professor Pilch and her collaborators capture the dynamics of domestic violence by presenting “Suzanne’s” case history, a composite, and then offering commentaries from the perspectives of psychology, law enforcement, victims’ advocacy, and the courts. The result is a heightened appreciation of the complexity of this “pandemic.... raging in our country” alongside COVID-19 and of how diverse causes and potential interventions intersect. Clearly written with minimal jargon, the book offers valuable insights both to professionals and to the broader public.”
~ David Price, U. S. House of Representatives (D – NC)

“This book is hard to read. That is why we must read it and seek to understand. Years ago, I rode wearing a bulletproof vest with the DVERT group described in these pages to observe the innovative multi-disciplinary teamwork in use to address this unbelievable problem of abuse and violence. The experience changed me. I hope this book will change you if you are not familiar with the gravity of domestic violence and the hope we can bring with understanding and action. This book will make you think, offer hope, and hopefully drive action. Supporting action to combat this insidious violence is one of the most important things we individually and collectively can do. I commend the authors and recommend their work to you.”
~ Pam Shockley-Zalabak, Ph.D., Chancellor Emerita, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs and President, CommuniCon, Inc.
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Almost all of us know someone who has experienced domestic violence in one form or another. I do. The impact on the abused and the abuser can last for generations and frequently does. This book highlights that issue and many other related problems.
I am glad the story of Suzanne and Rob is fiction. Yes, it was hard to read but it resonated with a lot of truth. The dysfunctions of their relationship were many and serious, as the dissection of the issues and events carefully points out.
This book needs to be read by everyone, especially the few who have not encountered or know anyone affected by domestic violence. Awareness of the issues and likely outcomes should make everyone vigilant for their friends and loved ones. The abusers need serious help but the abused need even more help to survive.
Domestic violence is a sad fact of our world. It’s pervasive and easily transmitted from generation to generation. Tremendous resources must be expended to prevent the occurrence of domestic violence, more to recover from it.
This book gets 5 stars from me for not only the detailed story but for the multi-disciplinary viewpoints expressed in the latter half of the book.
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You can buy this book:
https://rdrpublishers.com/domestic-violence-tragedy-and-hope-by-fran-pilch
https://www.amazon.com/Domestic-Violence-Tragedy-Frances-Pilch
https://www.goodreads.com/domestic-violence-tragedy-and-hope
 
You can follow the author:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/frances-pilch
https://www.facebook.com/fran.pilch.1
https://www.amazon.com/Books-Frances-T-Pilch
 
Here is another book by the author:
https://rdrpublishers.com/collections/memoirs-true-stories-from-the-heart/products/invisible-surviving-the-cambodian-genocide-by-frances-t-pilch
 
Copyright © 2022 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction
2 Comments

Anxiety Quick Wins by Vince Stevenson

12/30/2021

0 Comments

 
Multi-volume, non-fiction author, Vince Stevenson introduces us to his book, “Anxiety Quick Wins” about how to thrive in anxiety-filled circumstances:
ANXIETY QUICK WINS is an essential guide to health and well-being. Anxiety steals your sense of purpose and turns your focus inwards. It shuts down the neocortex, the logical side of your brain, and takes you hostage. Anxiety manifests in many forms, unique in each case. The best medicine is preventative medicine.
Mental health issues now affect 20–25% of the population and with the news that these issues can reduce life expectancy by 15–20 years, it’s a major concern for every individual, family and community. But it’s also a national crisis. In 2019, the Centre for Mental Health indicated that absenteeism cost the economy £35 billion. In the US, 40 million people, 18% of the population, suffer from anxiety.
The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted underlying health issues in socio-economic groups in both the UK and the US. These vulnerable groups bear the brunt of societal inequalities in terms of income, housing, opportunity and occupation.
My suggestion is that whatever group you’re from, making yourself bulletproof should begin straightaway. By that, I mean building your physical strength through nutrition and exercise, as well as introducing mindful activities into your daily life and building resilience. If you need a diagnosis and therapeutic assistance, it may be several months away due to the mental health postcode lottery. Delayed diagnosis exacerbates an already fraught situation, particularly in the young.
When the pandemic struck, the first issue in lockdown was making provision for nutrition. The supermarket shelves were emptied day after day. Panic buying left health workers empty-handed and feeling betrayed. For some, this was an assault on their mental health. If you’re going through hard times, it’s sensible to take precautionary measures now. It’s never too late to respect and rebuild your body and begin the healing process that your mental health depends upon.
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I wasn’t paying close attention. I expected a self-help book filled with encouraging quotes and familiar platitudes like so many others before.
This BOOK is filled with much better stuff. Using the example of climbing to the peak of a mountain, the first section deals with practical and foundational concepts for building personal health. Vince is clear that there are no overnight fixes when a person has not taken care of their physical or mental health. He does offer many suggestions to reach the goal. Start small and build upon success with each step.
The second section of the book includes a wealth of ideas and anecdotes for inspiration to continue the journey. There is lots of encouragement to be found in these stories.
Vince has a great deal of insight that he freely shares from his personal and professional life. I have utilized many of these suggestions to my personal benefit. You will find them useful also.
I award 5 stars to “Anxiety Quick Wins”!
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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/ANXIETY-QUICK-WINS-Vince-Stevenson-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-anxiety-quick-wins
 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/vincestev
https://twitter.com/ttruck1995
https://www.facebook.com/vince.stevenson.5
https://www.linkedin.com/in/collegeofpublicspeaking
 
I reviewed another book by Vince and we had a great interview, here is the link: https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-fear-doctor
 
Copyright © 2021 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction
0 Comments

Redemption’s Edge by G. David Walker

12/11/2021

2 Comments

 
Multi-volume, multi-genre author G. David Walker introduces us to his latest story in the fantasy genre:
The most unrelenting evil of all is the one which believes itself good.

An unintended evil stalks the land, gathering countless victims to itself as it extends its reach; an evil born of the noblest intentions gone horribly awry. After it claims his only remaining family, young Kelwyn vows to track it down and end it, no matter the personal cost. With little more than hope and a promise, he sets out on a journey whose end lies shrouded in uncertainty. He knows he cannot win, but he will not, cannot stop. Before his journey is over, he will discover places he’s only heard of from rumor and legend, and face terrors from the past he once thought long gone. From mountain holds to arid deserts, his vow drives him inexorably toward the final confrontation to save his family.

But in the end, will the cost be too high?

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I loved this story all the way to the end and the ending surprised me.
Kelwyn's journey was epic and kept me entranced for the entire length of the book. His desire to save his brothers kept him moving forward all the time through a lot of brutal training and traveling through many different dangers towards his goal. I found myself agreeing with many of Kelwyn's decisions and drive AKA stubbornness.
I enjoyed the sidekicks' obstacles and opportunities they provided.
I award 4.9 stars to Redemption's Edge!

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I reviewed another book by the author and we had a great interview, here is the link: https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/jabens-rift-by-g-david-walker
You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Redemptions-Edge-G-David-Walker-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/ebook/-redemption-s-edge
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/redemptions-edge-g-david-walker
 
You can connect with the author:
https://twitter.com/gdavidwalker
https://gdavidwalker.com
https://www.facebook.com/Far-Land-Trilogy-Jabens-Rift
https://www.facebook.com/gdavidwalker
https://www.goodreads.com/G_David_Walker
 
Fantasy, dark, swords, sorcery, action, quest, family, slavery
Copyright © 2021 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction.

2 Comments

The Warning Signs: Tales of Horror and Dark Fantasy by M. Ainihi

12/4/2021

2 Comments

 
Multi-volume, multi-genre author, M. Ainihi introduces us to her volume of short stories in the dark fantasy and horror genres, “The Warning Signs”:
Don’t ignore…
…the warning signs
Something lurks beneath the waves on an island where the sun never sets; a ghost tries to stop an up-and-coming serial killer; a heartless sorceress is thrilled when she finds access to the human realm; a boy tries to win his crush’s heart by challenging a horrifying local legend.
Delve deep into the shadowy, unexplored territories of the imagination with these short stories that are sure to frighten and enchant.
From misunderstood spirits to encounters with mythical creatures, these twisted tales include run-ins with ghosts, mermaids, werewolves, sorceresses, vampires, murderers, and their victims.

(Includes three short stories from the world of Sumir - The Blood Inheritance Quartet)

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I really enjoyed these stories. I found them to be intriguing and entertaining. I am not a fan of horror and gore, the more gore the less I enjoy it, a good scare is fun, like a ride on a wild rollercoaster.
These tales approach some traditional topics from an unusual perspective which enchanted me quite a bit. There is a werewolf, a vampire, ghosts, sea monsters and more. Some will be familiar and some will not be familiar.
I think any fan of horror will enjoy this collection.
I award "The Warning Signs" a score of 4.8 stars.

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This is the author's avatar


​You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Warning-Signs-Tales-Horror-Fantasy-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-warning-signs
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-warning-signs-m-ainihi
 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/m_ainihi 
https://mainihi.wordpress.com 

I have reviewed three other books in a series by this author, 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

Tags: Teen, Young Adult, Sword and Sorcery, Fantasy, dark, Horror

Copyright © Mark Schultz 2021 except for the author’s introduction
2 Comments

Stolen by KA Woodford

11/13/2021

30 Comments

 
Debut author, KA Woodford introduces us to her psychological thriller, “Stolen”:
Jenna Brandt can't stay out of trouble for five minutes. When she sees one of her friends about to be abducted, she launches into action not thinking of the consequences. Detective Sergeant David Sawran doesn't know what to think; troublemaker or daredevil. The vehicle she stole has evidence from a cold case fifteen years and fifteen hundred miles away causing Sawran and the original detective to team up hoping they can catch a killer before he finds Jenna.

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This was an interesting read! Yes, it was a little gory in places. How could it not be when the story is about the hunt for a serial killer. This hunt stretched over a couple of decades, hundreds of miles and there were lots of missing girls.
All the steps the police had to go through to eliminate suspects to find the killer was quite fascinating. I really do enjoy police-procedural stories.
There was a little bit of jumping around in the timeline. There was also changing first-person point of view, that was not clearly defined sometimes. I do like the intimacy of first-person POV, however.
Excellent closure at the end of major plot points.
I award 4.5 stars to "Stolen".

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You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Stolen-KA-Woodford-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-stolen
 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/woodfordauthor
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/ka-woodford

Psychological fiction, crime, thriller, police, kidnap, murder, killer

Copyright ©2021 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction
30 Comments

Kuimba by Priscilla B. Shuler

11/7/2021

49 Comments

 
Multi-volume, multi-genre author, Priscilla B. Shuler introduces us to her story, “Kuimba” set in the American South a little over 100 years ago:
South Carolina, 1914. Ophelia Smith’s life changed completely when she heard his beautiful singing. After hours of hard labor, the first-time mother feels blessed when the blue-eyed baby comes out of the womb making sweet music instead of cries. Naming him Kuimba for his enthralling voice, she proudly shares him with others who become enamored with the newborn… unaware of an older boy whose eyes are filled with hate.
Over the years, Ophelia watches in awe as her child grows up healing people through his touch and being visited by holy beings. But she struggles to protect him from the brutal attacks of a savagely jealous young man whenever he’s out of her sight. And when angels warn her that God has one more task for the youth before calling him back to Heaven, she fears the looming fate that threatens to take him away forever.
Will Ophelia’s magnificent son achieve his destiny and bring light into the world?
KUIMBA is a spellbinding standalone historical fiction novel. If you like captivating characters, spiritual wonders, and divine fate, then you’ll love Priscilla B Shuler’s religious southern tale.

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This story is set in the American South 1900s and I enjoyed it quite a bit. The title character is most unusual because he sings throughout the book. That is far from the most unusual thing about Kuimba.
Much of the dialogue is heavily accented and that worked well for me because I have heard many southern accents. There is a lot of regional flavors, descriptions of the times, and mores of people who lived then.
The other characters play very important parts also. I like the level-headed attitude that so many of them have. I also like how many of them experience drastic changes for the better as a direct result of knowing Kuimba.
I award 4.8 stars to "Kuimba"!

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You can buy this book:
https://smile.amazon.com/Kuimba-Priscilla-Shuler-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-kuimba
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/kuimba-priscilla-b-shuler
 
You can follow the author:
twitter.com/ShulerPriscilla 
https://priscillabshulerartistauthor.com
https://www.amazon.com/Priscilla-B.-Shuler 
www.facebook.com/priscilla.shuler.33 
 
Copyright © 2021 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction
49 Comments

The Evening’s Amethyst A Nora Tierney English Mystery #5 By M K Graff

10/30/2021

39 Comments

 
Multi-volume, multi-series, mystery author, Marni Graff introduces us to the fifth volume in The Nora Tierney English Mysteries series, “The Evening’s Amethyst”:
Who is Verity? That becomes the central question for American writer Nora Tierney, who has moved to her new Oxford home with her fiancé, DI Declan Barnes, and her young son. Declan's new case at Exeter College coincides with a frantic call from Nora's stepsister, Claire Scott: a fellow graduate student has died in a fall, and Claire begs Nora to help her prove her friend didn't commit suicide. The sisters conduct their own snooping, while Declan and his tam juggle this death with a cold case that proves to be more surprising than Declan could ever imagine.

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I love Nora, don’t tell my wife or Declan. Her supporting cast adds so much depth to the story. Her life seems to be on the upswing in many ways.
The author is very talented in weaving multiple stories into a cohesive and interesting plot! I was on the edge of my Kindle much of the way.
The characters seem alive and quite three-dimensional. They struggle with everyday stresses and have worries just like us. Even the minor characters seem very organic in the story. A lot of the dialogue is witty and sometimes it is heartbreaking. The investigation proceeds at a reasonable pace and every step is realistic.
I award 5 stars to "The Evening's Amethyst"!

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You can buy this book:
https://smile.amazon.com/Evenings-Amethyst-Tierney-English-Mysteries-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-the-evening-s-amethyst
 
 
You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/GraffMarni
http://www.auntiemwrites.com
http://facebook.com/bluevirginmysteries

Tags: amateur sleuth, police procedural, women sleuths, dogs, toddler, action, mystery, suicide or murder, England, Oxford
 
I reviewed other books by Marni:
“Death at the Dakota” and interviewed her beneath that review: https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/death-at-the-dakota-a-trudy-genova-manhattan-mystery-book-2-by-m-k-graff
“The Golden Hour” we had an interview there also:
https://www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-golden-hour-by-marni-graff

Copyright © 2021 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction
39 Comments
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