In a sense, The Last of Us was always meant to be on HBO. The 2013 video game was designed to mimic television and film, with frequent noninteractive cut-scenes, extensive use of motion-captured acting, startlingly intricate graphics,1 and ideas and visual motifs clearly inspired by films like 28 Days Later, Day of the Dead, and […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/03/29/loves-body-count-the-last-of-us/
Sophia Rose shares her thoughts on Winning Maura’s Heart by Linda Broday. Settle in with a cup of tea and check out her thoughts on this emotional western romance set in Texas.
Winning Maura’s Heart
by Linda Broday
Series: The Hangman’s Daughters #1
Genres: Historical Romance
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
Rating: 
Heat Level: 
Texas, 1876. Maura Taggart is an outcast. She is the daughter of a hangman and tainted by association – no reputable man would ever want her as his wife. And now she is homeless, along with her sister and the group of children in their care. But Maura has grit. She finds a nearby mission where the nuns agree to take them in and set up an orphanage. But trouble is just around the corner . . .
The Calhoun brothers are identical twins but on opposite sides of the law. Cutter is a deputy Marshal, Jonas an outlaw. When Cutter attempts to break his brother out of a notorious gang, they are shot, and Maura finds one of them wounded, close to the mission – but which brother is it?
As the stranger regains his strength under Maura’s care an attraction between them grows, but there’s a question over his identity. Can he be trusted and why has his presence brought danger to their door? With the orphanage under threat can Maura trust this handsome stranger both with their safety and with her heart?
{
“@context”:”https://schema.org”,
“@type”:”Review”,
“datePublished”: “2023-03-29T05:00:00+00:00”,
“description”: “Sophia Rose shares her thoughts on Winning Maura’s Heart by Linda Broday. Settle in with a cup of tea and check out her thoughts on this emotional western romance set in Texas. “,
“publisher”: {
“@type”: “Organization”,
“name”: “Caffeinated Reviewer” },
“url”: “https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/03/winning-mauras-heart-by-linda-broday.html”,
“itemReviewed”: {
“@type”: “Book”,
“name”: “Winning Maurau2019s Heart “,
“author”: {
“@type”: “Person”,
“name”: “Linda Broday”,
“sameAs”: “http://www.LindaBroday.com” },
“isbn”: “” },
“author”: {
“@type”: “Person”,
“name”: “Kimberly”,
“sameAs”: “https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/” },
“reviewRating”: {
“@type”: “Rating”,
“ratingValue”: 5,
“bestRating”: “5”
}
}
A woman judged and ill-treated for her father’s profession rescues a wounded man, but is he lawman or outlaw? This is the setup for a powerfully emotional western romance written by an author who writes the Old West of Texas with heart.
Winning Maura’s Heart is the first in The Hangman’s Daughters series focusing on Maura, who with her sister Emma had a tough childhood and still face the unearned cruelty of others simply for what their father does. Their tender and loving mother, when she was alive, offset the withdrawn distance of a father who was a hangman by profession. Their mother couldn’t protect them from all the bullying kids and their equally mean-spirited parents and their father was gone doing his work, so Maura and Emma have a sensitivity for the unwanted and downtrodden of the world.
When no one else in San Antonio will, the sisters nurse the yellow fever sufferers, get driven out when the plague seems to have passed, but they take the orphaned children of this latest plague with them into the old Alamo mission, joining three Catholic Sisters who have come to open the Mission back up and their own drunken Uncle Max with demons of his past.
Not long after they arrive, Maura comes upon a man shot and close to death. His personal effects and the saddlebags on his horse only give interesting hints that point to two extremes. He’s either a lawman or an outlaw. And, when Calhoun comes to and starts to get better, he’s not really forthcoming. But, the pair of them are drawn to each other even as the danger of an outlaw gang looking for the loot from their last bank robbery, Calhoun’s mysteries, and the trouble that always follows the hangman’s daughters are enough to divide them unless they can hold strong and hold to each other.
With the same attention to historical backdrop, western action and suspenseful build-up, layered characters, and tender yet compelling romance, the author draws the reader into a new series set up. What a unique background for Maura and Emma. My heart broke many times for these sisters who were shunned, bullied, and abused simply because people were uncomfortable or hated that their father hung criminals for a living. And, they didn’t even get a supportive parent with a mother passed away and their father’s means of living making him emotionally cold and physically barely there.
Added to the two sisters, their Uncle Max, who didn’t have it easy either with his brother following their father in the hanging profession and his troubling past. He was a fascinating side character who I enjoyed knowing and seeing him really make an effort through is struggles when his nieces and the orphans came. The three nuns were a nice addition to the underdog group at the mission. And, of course, there are the whimsical and touching ways of those orphan kids who lucked out at last with the found family that Maura and Emma made for them.
The romance was intriguing as the reader is kept in the dark with Maura as to which Calhoun twin survived the skirmish with the outlaws when the law-abiding twin went to find his brother who was a member of the outlaw band. Maura is reluctantly falling in love with her eyes open to the possibility of either even as she resists the feelings because everything in her past has taught her that love, a husband and normal family life are not for the likes of her. Meanwhile Calhoun is struggling to get his health back so he can deal with the outlaws that will come looking and endanger Maura and the others. I don’t want to give anything away. I swung between suspicions of which twin he was through a good deal of the story, but still fell in love with him right along with reluctant Maura.
The build to the confrontation and the reveals was as good as it promised through the story. Man, were my emotions vested. I do love how Linda Broday writes her western romances, so you get all the good stuff and a satisfying finish with a strong anticipation for more. The world of that time and place is drawn so well that I can heartily recommend this one to fans of romance set in the harsh times of the Old West.
Amazon
Linda Broday is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of historical western romance. She lives in the Texas Panhandle on land they call the Llano Estacado where the Native Americans and Comancheros once roamed. She can often hear their voices whispering in the wind. History is thick here with the ghosts of the people who settled this land. She loves writing western historical romance and can’t imagine doing anything else. She loves a man in a Stetson and tight pants. Oh man! Those cowboys sure make her heart beat faster.
Never miss a post by adding Caffeinated to your Inbox
Sophia is a quiet though curious gal who dabbles in cooking, book reviewing, and gardening. Encouraged and supported by an incredible man and loving family. A Northern Californian transplant to the Great Lakes Region of the US. Lover of Jane Austen, Baseball, Cats, Scooby Doo, and Chocolate.
Source
Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/03/winning-mauras-heart-by-linda-broday.html
Faust Ruggiero, a renowned therapist, author, and clinical trainer, has garnered numerous accolades for his first book. With extensive experience in various settings, including nursing homes, prisons, and substance abuse centers, Ruggiero offers counseling services to a diverse clientele and serves as the president of the Community Psychological Center in Pennsylvania. He has been featured on numerous television shows, podcasts, and radio programs and has published articles in several research journals. The Fix Your Anxiety Handbook is Ruggiero’s follow-up to his critically acclaimed The Fix Yourself Handbook. This groundbreaking work offers a comprehensive guide for understanding and overcoming anxiety, reshaping perspectives on this pervasive mental health challenge.
Ruggiero’s writing provides step-by-step explanations and guidance for embracing a life free of anxiety, empowering readers to reclaim control and embrace their inner strength. He posits that anxiety is not an inherent aspect of one’s identity but rather a condition that must be addressed on a physical level first. With nineteen distinct processes outlined, the book methodically guides readers through each category and description, offering relatable scenarios that reflect the daily struggles many face.
By breaking the cycle of anxiety and dispelling feelings of inadequacy, readers are equipped with the tools necessary to effect lasting change in their lives. In addition, the book emphasizes the importance of adopting a simple lifestyle, incorporating a balanced diet, exercise, journaling, and self-reflection as the foundation for personal growth. By stepping out of their comfort zone and embracing change, readers can overcome the stagnation and inertia perpetuated by anxiety. The Fix Your Anxiety Handbook is not just for those grappling with anxiety; its insights and strategies are universally applicable. With its well-organized chapters and structured approach, this book serves as a valuable resource for eliminating unhealthy habits and embracing a more positive, fulfilling life.
Having read this book twice already, I am confident that I will continue to revisit its pages for guidance and inspiration. Faust Ruggiero’s transformative insights have profoundly shifted my perception of anxiety, instilling a belief that lasting change is indeed possible for everyone.
The Fix Your Anxiety Handbook demystifies the causes of anxiety and helps readers create an actionable plan in order to manage their anxiety. The step-by-step process is eye-opening and will help those suffering from this condition to understand the cause and work to heal. This self-help book is a valuable resource for everyone, whether they suffer from anxiety, have loved ones that do, or just want a better understanding of themselves and how to improve their mental health.
Pages: 210
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/03/29/the-fix-your-anxiety-handbook/
“You may not be interested in AAI, but AAI is interested in you.” This compelling statement sets the tone for Gardens, Groves, and Mechanical Trees, a thought-provoking play by George M. Baker that delves into the ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence. The narrative centers on Professor Garmin, a once healthy individual, now a quadriplegic relying on his advanced robohumanoid, Curantus, for assistance.
Initially displeased with his robohumanoid caretaker, Professor Garmin reflects on his past lectures about artificial intelligence with his former student, Chen. Their conversations span a range of topics, from TechDei (Technological Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) to the ethical control of AI. These flashbacks serve as a timely and necessary exploration of the ethical implications of AI development. As the play progresses, Professor Garmin’s interactions with Curantus shift towards assessing the robohumanoid’s capacity for empathy—a key indicator of consciousness. The narrative culminates with the professor asking Curantus to grant him a compassionate death.
Gardens, Groves, and Mechanical Trees offers a fascinating exploration of AI for readers interested in the technology’s future. Its engaging format, consisting of dialogue and narration, is both informative and intellectually stimulating. Readers will be left pondering the future of technology and the value of Artificial intelligence and how it will shape our future.
Pages: 126
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/03/29/gardens-groves-and-mechanical-trees/
An elephant named Gaja and an eagle named Garud are the best of friends. They are always together, laughing, playing, dancing, and singing as they explore the forest where they live. One hot and sunny day, Garud suggests they go for a walk to the west in hopes of finding the night quicker. After many hours of walking, the heat was only getting worse, and they found a tree to stop and rest under. After falling asleep, they awake to the cool breeze of night and discover that by walking west instead of getting away from the sun, they were walking with it! When they turn around and head for home, Gaja has no idea there are more surprises still to discover this night.
Walking with the Sun by Preethi Saravanakumar and illustrated by Julia Duclos, is a captivating picture book that teaches children about the movement of the sun. There is also a wise message about how to overcome discomfort; you need to walk away from it, not with it. Children also learn the valuable lesson of finding happiness in all you do and not carrying sadness with them through their journeys.
This touching children’s book will provide children with much to think about and discuss with friends and family as they follow Gaja and Garud on their adventures. The beautiful watercolor images are whimsical and enchanting, adding depth to the story and bringing the characters to life.
Walking with the Sun is a delightful children’s book that teaches children about friendship, positive thoughts, and taking chances. Families and teachers will enjoy sharing this story with children, and this would make an excellent addition to a home or classroom library.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0BW6NQQN1
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/03/29/walking-with-the-sun/
Leprechauns are not only magical beings, as people often believe. In fact, they are beings who gather knowledge. For them, art reflects the essence of things, which is why they are guardians of stories. Furthermore, they have had to learn to protect everything they consider valuable, which is why they are cunning and resourceful. However, their life is not so simple because they have serious responsibilities to fulfill. Book of Leprechauns: The Lore Gatherers follows Molly, a young leprechaun who has lost the gold she was entrusted with. Alongside her father, Shaun, and her friend Dorker, they embark on a thrilling journey to ancient Rome and the realm of Caesar. Through this adventure, Molly learns more about her family, the responsibilities of being a lore gatherer, and the true magic that lies within her.
Author Jonathan Uffelman demonstrates exceptional attention to detail, crafting charismatic and engaging characters. Molly is a relatable protagonist who strives to excel while her father, Shaun, grapples with striking the right balance between guidance and independence. I loved reading about Molly’s relationship with her father and found it heartwarming. The vivid descriptions of the settings, particularly ancient Rome, are enriched with historical details, immersing the reader in the adventure. The narrative is further enhanced by including short tales discovered throughout the journey. The detailed descriptions and footnotes throughout the story add remarkable depth and richness to the narrative. The creative footnotes provide an authentic touch, effortlessly immersing the reader in the enchanting world of leprechauns.
Book of Leprechauns: The Lore Gatherers is an entertaining, thrilling, and unique middle-grade fantasy story. This novel is filled with adventure, exciting myths, and folk tales. This is a must-read for fans of sword and sorcery stories.
Pages: 320 | ASIN : B0BLY73KV8
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/03/29/book-of-leprechauns/
It’s Not About Love is a compelling self-help memoir penned by Jamie Murray, which delves into the complex topic of infidelity. The author takes the reader on a transformative journey, explaining that betrayal is not a result of insufficient love for one’s partner but rather a reflection of the unfaithful individual’s lack of self-love. Consequently, the act of betrayal is not the fault of the betrayed. This insightful book provides a fresh perspective on disloyalty, empowering readers to understand that their self-worth is independent of the actions of others.
The essence of It’s Not About Love lies in its potent and unique approach to addressing infidelity. As Jamie Murray candidly shares her personal experiences with betrayal, readers cannot help but forge a deep connection with her narrative. This comprehensive guide serves as a powerful reminder that betrayal is unrelated to love, absolving the betrayed of any blame.
Murray’s writing style is both authoritative and wry, and her book is remarkably impactful as it encourages readers to view unfaithfulness from an entirely new angle. By recognizing one’s lack of culpability in such situations, readers are guided towards a more focused and healthy life. The author emphasizes the importance of self-care and discourages allowing a partner’s actions to have a detrimental effect on one’s well-being. Murray’s firsthand experience with betrayal lends her a unique understanding of the challenges one may face in the aftermath.
This book casts a light on a subject that is often experienced in silence and isolation, and Jamie Murray’s courageous honesty in sharing her most vulnerable emotions is nothing short of admirable. Despite the arduous journey, her witty writing instills a sense of hope that brighter days lie ahead. It’s Not About Love provides an exceptional portrayal of the intricate relationship between infidelity and love.
Pages: 182 | ASIN : B0BTZ98H6W
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/03/29/its-not-about-love-at-least-not-the-way-you-think/