To the Editors: Susan Neiman’s review of my Professor of Apocalypse: The Many Lives of Jacob Taubes [NYR, April 6] combines her own remembrances and conceptions of Jacob Taubes and of his second wife, Margherita von Brentano (with whom Neiman studied and whose works she has edited), with a cavalcade of her own concerns. What […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/05/25/political-blindness/
To the Editors: David Cole’s “Originalism’s Charade” [NYR, November 24, 2022] is a devastating critique of originalism as a method of interpreting the Constitution. Among other things, Cole argues that the theory does not deliver on its promise of constraining judicial discretion, because of the many interpretive choices it leaves to judges. But there is […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/05/25/originalisms-limits/
To the Editors: Howard French criticizes V.S. Naipaul’s novel A Bend in the River [“Naipaul’s Unreal Africa,” NYR, December 22, 2022] for its “essentialization” of Africa, which he claims is “deeply rooted [in] racist fantasies of the Western past.” He also alleges that Salim, the novel’s prejudiced narrator, is a “fictional voice for Naipaul’s sensibilities.” […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/05/25/naipaul-africa/
I loved Genevieve Cogman’s gripping Invisible Library series, so I was pumped to check out Scarlet. This is the first in a historical fantasy trilogy set during the French Revolution. Cogman reimagines the tale of The Scarlet Pimpernel with magic, vampires and suspense.
Scarlet
by Genevieve Cogman
Series: The Scarlet Revolution #1
Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Revolution is a bloodthirsty business . . . especially when vampires are involved.
It is 1793 and the French Revolution is in full swing. Vampires—usually rich and aristocratic—have slaked the guillotine’s thirst in large numbers. The mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel, a disguised British noble, and his League are heroically rescuing dozens of aristocrats from execution, both human and vampire. And soon they will have an ace up their sleeve: Eleanor Dalton.
Eleanor is working as a housemaid on the estate of a vampire Baroness. Her highest aspiration is to one day become a modiste. But when the Baroness hosts a mysterious noble and his wife, they tell Eleanor she is the spitting image of a French aristocrat, and they convince her to journey to France to aid them in a daring scheme. Soon, Eleanor finds herself in Paris, swept up in magic and intrigue—and chaos—beyond her wildest dreams. But there’s more to fear than ardent Revolutionaries. For Eleanor stumbles across a centuries-old war between vampires and their fiercest enemy. And they’re out for blood. . . .
Scarlet is the first book in a wildly engaging new series from Genevieve Cogman, which reinvents the beloved tale of the Scarlet Pimpernel.
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The story that unravels is full of interesting characters, such as our strong and fearless Eleanor. Against the backdrop of the French Revolution, with a bit of magic and vampires, Cogman has proven she can write a fantasy that will captivate everyone – even those who don’t like history.
The Scarlet Pimpernel was a fictional character written by Baroness Orczy. it was a play and a movie adaptation came later, which is the story I am familiar with. It shares the story of an Englishman who rescued men, women and children during the Reign of Terror. In Cogman’s story, it is a group of men and women who rescue France’s aristocrats who also are vampires.
Eleanor is a maid with aspirations of working for a dressmaker in London. Her life changes when the Scarlet Pimpernel discovers she bears a striking resemblance to Queen Marie Antoinette. They enlist her to help aid in her escape. Seeking to better her station, Eleanor agrees.
The tale that unfolds was fascinating, suspenseful and, at times, horrifying. When Eleanor is separated from her party, something happens and I am curious to see how this thread progresses. I will leave you to discover what occurred for yourself. Eleanor will need to escape capture, sharp teeth and avoid the guillotine before the first book in the Scarlet Revolution trilogy comes to a close.
Along the way, we will see her transformed, bargain and skillfully use her wits. The story offers a side dish of romance, intrigue, magic and plenty of action as we traipse across France. Villains and zealots & fearful citizens added to the intensity along with harrowing escapes and dangerous plots.
The story wraps up in a great place with some closure and hints of what is coming. Fans of alternate history, fantasy, vampires, magic and intrigue will want to grab Scarlet. Bravo, Ms. Cogman!
Amazon | Audible
Genevieve Cogman got started on Tolkien and Sherlock Holmes at an early age, and has never looked back. But on a perhaps more prosaic note, she has an MSC in Statistics with Medical Applications and has wielded this in an assortment of jobs: clinical coder, data analyst and classifications specialist. Although The Invisible Library is her debut novel, she has also previously worked as a freelance roleplaying game writer. Genevieve Cogman’s hobbies include patchwork, beading, knitting and gaming, and she lives in the north of England.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/05/scarlet-by-genevieve-cogman.html
Marcus Winther-John’s novel, 16 Hangovers, offers an engaging and professional take on the painful journey of heartbreak and healing. The story revolves around Marc and Mia Mahler, a couple who decided to end their blissful 20-year marriage, leaving Marc to process his grief and come to terms with the end of his relationship. Through the lens of Marc’s drunken and emotional state, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery that explores themes of love, heartbreak, and healing.
The author brilliantly sets the story’s tone from the beginning, introducing readers to the main character’s inner turmoil and his struggles to come to terms with the world around him. The use of musical references and guitar jargon adds a unique touch to the story, providing readers with an intriguing insight into the European music scene. The narrative of heavy themes such as heartbreak is made light and bearable, making the book a delightful read. One of the things that I appreciated about the book was its honest portrayal of the breakup process and how it affects individuals. The story offers a refreshing take on the moving-on process, acknowledging that sometimes it’s okay to submit to your hurt and that healing is not always linear. As the story progresses, Marc’s actions and thoughts contradict each other, keeping the reader’s curiosity piqued until the end.
Overall, I highly recommend 16 Hangovers to anyone going through a difficult time in their life. The book is a great motivator to continue choosing love despite the pain and encourages readers to explore their inner selves. I hope this book reaches readers who can relate to the same experience. This book is perfect for music lovers and fans of “Daisy Jones and The Six,” as it intertwines songs and lyrics for the full narrative effect.
Pages: 206 | ASIN: B0C415PM28
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/05/08/16-hangovers/
In Odox: A Medieval Epic Fantasy, Mysteries of Mabbalor: Book One, author Ken C. Kennedy masterfully weaves an enchanting tale set in the rich and vivid world of Mabbalor. The story follows the captivating journey of Odox, a courageous Drakkearean military officer. He navigates through treachery, a menacing enemy army, and the burgeoning power bestowed upon him by an enigmatic Croc Sapien.
The gripping prologue instantly immerses readers into the imaginative realm of Mabbalor, where a young boy – who is later revealed to be our protagonist, Odox – takes center stage. Kennedy has skillfully crafted a dynamic cast of characters, including the memorable bounty hunters and the uniquely intriguing ogre brothers, whose lively dialogue adds delightful entertainment to the narrative.
Mabbalor’s well-conceived magick system effortlessly complements the story’s fabric, providing a balanced, natural presence without dominating the plot. With its inherent limitations, the magick system ensures that Odox remains a relatable, human-like character instead of an invincible god. The only drawbacks are occasional slow pacing and a scarcity of information on certain kingdoms. This could be intentional on the author’s part to leave readers in wait for future novels in the series.
While the epilogue may initially leave readers feeling somewhat perplexed about the unfolding events and characters’ identities, the tantalizing mystery ultimately fuels anticipation for the next installment in the series.
Kennedy has successfully created a vibrant, immersive world, complete with multiple kingdoms and a sophisticated magick system. The characters are remarkably distinctive and genuine. Odox: A Medieval Epic Fantasy, Mysteries of Mabbalor is a captivating epic fantasy that takes readers on an adventure in a magical world that is unique and mysterious.
Pages: 511 | ASIN : B0BQCN4W82
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/05/08/odox-a-medieval-epic-fantasy/
David Joseph’s book, I Didn’t Know What to Say, So I Just Said Thanks, is a remarkable collection of 19 short stories, carefully crafted over a period spanning from 2000 to 2016. Each story is a masterpiece of its own, skillfully concluding with a twist, turn, or thought that leaves the reader with a deep sense of reflection. The characters in each story are multi-dimensional, complex, and skillfully designed to guide the reader through a journey of contemplation.
The stories in this book are overflowing with inspiration, insight, hope, and sorrow, demonstrating how the human spirit perseveres through life’s trials. David Joseph has written each story with grace, tenderness, and an undeniable inspiration that resonates in the reader long after the book is finished. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for thought-provoking literature that nourishes the soul.
The stories in I Didn’t Know What to Say, So I Just Said Thanks offer a captivating exploration of human emotions in various contexts. For instance, one story depicts a teenager learning the significance of fishing after the devastating loss of his father. At the same time, another portrays a young man reminiscing about his high school friend who helped shape the person he is today. The book’s characters are relatable and vivid, and their dramatic endings leave a lasting impression on the reader. David Joseph, an award-winning author with bylines in esteemed publications such as The Wall Street Journal, employs a gentle yet vivid writing style that captures the nuances of the Iberian peninsula. The stories in this book are no exception, reflecting a deep appreciation for human nature and the different ways people navigate life’s challenges.
Overall, I Didn’t Know What to Say, So I Just Said Thanks is an entertaining and enlightening book that immerses readers in a world of captivating storytelling. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys literature that explores the human condition and inspires reflection. David Joseph’s book will leave an indelible impression on anyone who reads it.
Pages: 190 | ASIN : B0C3DMHWRZ
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/05/08/i-didnt-know-what-to-say-so-i-just-said-thanks/
Close Encounters of the Worst Kind Comprehensive Recovery Workbook is the official companion to Randi Fine’s bestselling narcissistic abuse recovery guide, Close Encounters of the Worst Kind Second Edition.
This workbook is for anyone who is processing the concept of narcissistic abuse, anyone who recognizes the concept of narcissistic abuse and would like to dig deeper into the understanding of it, and anyone who wants more guidance on the path to healing from it. Close Encounters of the Worst Kind Comprehensive Recovery Workbook is comprised of forty-eight lessons, each followed by a reflective writing exercise that can be written directly on the pages of this book. Each lesson concludes with final thoughts, tips, and strategies. Gain clarity and deeper insight into the entire experience of narcissistic abuse and what it takes to heal from it.
Break free from the manipulation and control.
Take your life back!
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/05/08/close-encounters-of-the-worst-kind-comprehensive-recovery-workbook-for-survivors-of-narcissistic-abuse/
Khuda Buksh: The Pioneer of Life Insurance in Bangladesh: An account of his life and work is the biography of a man who dedicated his life to bringing Life Insurance to all people in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Why was it important to tell his story?
My father died in 1974. I thought about writing a book after his death but could not take the project in my student life. My father earned a lot of money. But he was never interested in saving money in the bank. He helped poor people all his life, he enjoyed entertaining friends and relatives, and he put his heart, soul, and money into the development of insurance. As a result, it was his own life insurance policy that kept his family afloat after his death. I loved and admired my father’s magnetic personality from childhood. Insurance was his life mission and passion. The way he talked about insurance and the way he helped people to establish themselves in life still amazes me.
Over the years, my job and family life kept me busy. I immigrated to the USA in 1977. It took me some time to settle. My mother visited me in 1999 and she told my father’s struggling life in Kolkata. Then I found an article “Khuda Buksh: Life Insurance was his mission.” These inspired me to work on his life. I want this generation to know about my father for the role he played in the development of the life insurance industry. He was almost forgotten from the history of Bangladesh and Pakistan insurance as I could not find any book on his life. I hope this book will not only fill the gap of Bangladesh and Pakistan insurance history, but his story can keep our family history alive, especially from generation to generation.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
To do complete research on his life.
To find the details of his professional life activities through interviews of contemporaries, relatives, and associates.
And to learn qualities of leadership, struggles, achievements, and failures in life from my father.
What was one of the hardest parts in Khuda Buksh: The Pioneer of Life Insurance in Bangladesh for you to write?
My work involved extensive research starting with a collection of insurance stories of his time. I was not sure about where to find insurance stories after a quarter-century after his death. My story collection became much easier when I contacted the Library of Congress and various U.S. university libraries. They provided me research materials, specifically Pakistan and Bangladesh newspaper archive in the form of microfiche of 22 years. After the collection of stories, the hardest part was to write the stories in various chapters with a good flow for attracting the readers.
What do you What is one thing readers take away from your father’s story?
My father was personally involved in the welfare of each worker. He deeply cared about the people who worked for him. He would even make sure that his salesmen had groceries at home. This motivated the workers and they gave their best performances in business development. I believe that there is a lesson for management here. A manager can easily earn the trust, love, and respect from teammates by being honest, kind, down-to-earth, humble, sincere, fair, and straightforward with himself as well as his teammates.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | LinkedIn | Website
Buksh’s leadership and management style, including business practices developed in India that he introduced to his homeland, East Bengal, are a huge part of the legacy he left. When Buksh became a manager at Eastern Federal Union Insurance Company Limited (EFU), he used inventive techniques to recruit and motivate his sales force and challenge the public’s negative perception of life insurance. Finally, he earned a reputation as the country’s most magnetic and dynamic sales executive and the wizard of life insurance.
Drawing from interviews with dozens of contemporaries as well as years of research, author Muhammad Obaidur Rahim, who is also Buksh’s son, traces the roots of life insurance evaluation and development and leadership strategies that helped the industry penetrate nearly every part of society. Along the way, the readers will get a close look at Buksh’s involvement in establishing regional rights.
For students and scholars specializing in South Asian studies or international business relations, Buksh’s story provides a vivid portrait of political and social changes and demonstrates how the life insurance industry influenced a critical period in the history of the Indian subcontinent. The book may also interest professionals interested in studying executives and management techniques.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/05/08/my-fathers-magnetic-personality/