On February 15, 2013, a luminous object trailed across the skies above the Russian city of Chelyabinsk, in the southern Urals. It was around 9:00 am, just after the late winter dawn. The recent popularity of dashcams in Russia—useful in case of an accident or an encounter with the corrupt traffic police—meant that the event was […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/06/22/fireball-over-siberia-tunguska-andy-bruno/
On her bank’s loan sheets Ban Sophear looks like an ideal borrower. At forty-seven, she runs a small business buying fish on the southern edge of Cambodia’s Tonle Sap Lake and also owns some farmland. In the past Sophear borrowed a small amount of money—a microloan—to build up her business. She managed to pay it […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/05/30/how-microloans-betrayed-cambodians/
I love stories about family, friendships and finding your path and was drawn to the cover of Esme Cahill Fails Spectacularly by Marie Bostwick. The author takes us on one woman’s journey from a publishing house in New York to her grandparent’s lakeside resort. Along the way she heals, makes connections and finds herself.
Esme Cahill Fails Spectacularly
by Marie Bostwick
Genres: Women’s Fiction
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
From the author of The Restoration of Celia Fairchild, comes a novel about the meaning of family and the places we call home. If you love “southern summer” fiction authors like Mary Alice Monroe and Kristy Woodson Harvey you’ll love this delicious novel about family, friendship, and finding your true path in life.
Esme Cahill thinks she has failed spectacularly: fired from her New York City publishing job, divorced from her husband, and possessing little more than a broken-down car and a pile of unfinished manuscripts, she drives home to Asheville at the request of her late grandmother, Adele, who had begged her, just before she died, to return to the place she grew up.
There she discovers the once-charming lakeside retreat run by her family is sliding toward financial ruin, so with the help of her grandfather, George; estranged mother, Robyn; and a travelling chef Dawes (maker of the world’s best grilled cheese sandwich) they set to work. In the attic, Esme unearths a trove of museum-worthy art quilts, sewn by Adele. Piecing together the inspiration behind them, Esme discovers a forgotten chapter in her family history and her grandmother’s untold story, that of a gifted artist who never received her due.
This is an always-emotional, sometimes humorous, very human novel of what it means to be family–the ties that bind us together and the unintentional hurts that can rend us apart. And, along the way, Esme learns that failure can be the first step toward the life you’re meant to find.
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Marie Bostwick pulled me into the story of Esme Cahill, who finds herself divorced, loses her beloved grandmother, and her job. Her dreams of a garden apartment and writing her own novel are dashed. She soon finds herself defeated and heads back to her grandparent’s lakeside resort to regroup for the summer.
Esme hasn’t been back since her estranged mother showed up years ago and is shocked to see the place rundown and her grandfather having issues. Esme plans to stay until summer’s end. A package from her late grandmother sets her on a journey to discover more about her and the quilts she made. I loved this thread with its touches of magical realism and history.
I loved Esme and enjoyed the growth we witness in her from restoring the resort to dealings with a curmudgeon writer. I laughed, cheered, cried, and felt as if I were there.
The lakeside resort is delightful and the new cook whips up delectable dishes and cakes. All the food talk had me wanting to pack my bags and visit for a week.
You’ll cheer Esme on as she tries to save the resort, reunite with an old friend and enjoy the possibilities of a new romance. This story has it all, from mending relationships to restoring your passion.
Esme Cahill Fails Spectacularly is the PERFECT beach read this summer. Fans of family, healing and finding yourself will love Esme.
Amazon | Audible
Marie Bostwick is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of uplifting historical and contemporary fiction. She lives in the state of Washington and travels frequently to sign books, speak to reading groups, and meet her readers.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/05/esme-cahill-fails-spectacularly-by-marie-bostwick.html
Brenda Stanley’s The Still Small Voice is a captivating tale that intertwines family dynamics, deeply buried secrets, and an undeniable sense of homecoming. This narrative spotlights Madison Moore, who, after a prolonged absence, finds herself returning to her former home in Utah. Her departure years prior, prompted by a college opportunity and family discord, had created a significant distance. Yet, her father’s declining health now compels her back home. Yet, as Madison anticipates a reconciliatory return, she soon realizes the past’s shadow refuses to recede, sparking an engrossing drama that will keep readers gripped until the very end.
Beautifully illustrated and flawlessly developed characters evolve as the narrative unfolds. Madison, our protagonist, is endearingly complex – assertive, intriguing, and pleasantly rebellious. The supporting cast contributes generously to the story’s progression, each lending their unique flair. Amelia Johnson stands out amongst them, offering an intriguing subplot that significantly enriches the narrative.
The narrative is an immersive exploration of small-town secrets and the lies we tell those closest to us, skillfully layered with suspense that entices the reader to keep turning the pages. Its scenes, dense with anticipation, leave readers eager to discover the characters’ next move and the consequential impact on the storyline. The climactic revelation is a testament to Stanley’s refined narrative abilities – an exhilarating payoff indeed!
Stanley’s world-building prowess is also commendable, creating an authentic setting that complements the narrative’s texture. While the story’s pacing may be leisurely, it is redeemed by a vibrant character ensemble and a meticulously constructed plot that ensures readers remain absorbed throughout.
The Still Small Voice is a thrilling murder mystery that blends beautiful prose with an intriguing plot, leaving a resonating imprint long after the final page is turned.
Pages: 290 | ASIN : B0BG385N93
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/05/30/the-still-small-voice/
Hans-Peter by David Poland is a fantastic piece of realistic fiction that explores the development of new technology and alien phenomenon. The story arc follows the development of a new type of aircraft invented by Han’s Peter, a genius inventor who has so far kept his inventions under wraps from both the public and the government. He has developed an aerospace plane capable of flying into orbit with a new type of tri-propellent engine and fuel that utilizes nuclear cold fusion.
We follow the story through the eyes of several high-profile technology journalists, the staff at a nearby military base, Cactus Patch, and the employees of the Federal Aviation Administration. The unfolding story is told from one of the story’s main protagonists, Trayparts’ perspective, written in a first-person narrative. Traypart is a well-respected technology and aerospace journalist who came to California to report on aerospace and spaceflight technology.
I really enjoyed this novel. It is written in a hyperrealistic fashion tackling the science of Hans-Peter’s new technology and the implications for the earth regarding this new type of technology. One of the underlying themes is the frontier of space, how emerging technology will affect our ability to travel to space, and the possibilities of what we may encounter if we do so. “Okay,” I said reluctantly. “So way back in college, he was talking about rockets and F-111s.” “Way back then, he told me he was thinking about how to blend a nuclear reaction into a liquid fuel rocket engine. Do you think that’s even possible?” p 13
The overall story develops slowly throughout the novel, with the plot being slowly revealed to the reader as the book develops. I particularly liked how the novel uses the different characters’ perspectives to relay the story as it develops. The main characters are well-written and appropriately complex, and they came across as extremely convincing in their roles. It worked well to have the different perspectives of the unfolding story. As the story progresses, the reader is introduced to possible sightings by the military of UFOs and a cover-up of previous alien contact. However, I felt the story was slightly too heavily focused on the character’s dialog in some parts.
We also witness a problem with the ISS space station after a meteor strike, leaving the astronauts onboard needing rescue. This development and the possibility of a daring space rescue by Hans-Peter and his new aircraft up the story’s stakes and add an effective extra level of interest for the reader. Toward the end of the novel, the author David Poland adds a big twist to the story, which left me genuinely surprised.
Hans-Peter is a riveting science fiction adventure novel that gives readers much to contemplate. The story is compelling and will hold readers’ interest till the end.
Pages: 295 | ASIN : B08NWB13PR
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/05/30/hans-peter/
Journey of a Prophet: Jesus Tells His Story is masterfully penned by Kaarin Alisa, and offers a unique interpretation of the story of Jesus, combining an engaging narrative with historical biblical events. Alisa explores pivotal episodes of Jesus’ life, introducing a fresh perspective on his familial relationships, disciples, and followers. This book stands out with its remarkable approach as Alisa delivers biblical tales, miracles, and divine interventions from an unconventional viewpoint. She further enhances the narrative by using Yeshua, the Hebrew name for Jesus, thereby evoking an authentic connection with the period. The story’s richness is further amplified by colloquial expressions and biblical references, which interweave to form a tapestry of engrossing narratives. Alisa’s skillful writing ensures that readers are captivated from the first chapter.
While the life and divinity of Jesus, conceived over 2000 years ago through the power of the Holy Spirit, are well-documented in the New Testament, Alisa adds a creative spin to these tales in this book. The narratives are presented in such an immersive manner that readers feel personally involved in Jesus’ life, offering a multi-dimensional understanding of his experiences and teachings. One can’t help but feel transported back in time, living amidst those who were contemporaries of Jesus.
Alisa’s work is not just a recitation of biblical events but also a treasure trove of life lessons, many of which are often overlooked in religious texts. Covering diverse topics such as faith, hardship, respect for elders and authority, love, kindness, and personal struggles, the author provides profound insights and divine guidance. She portrays Jesus’ trials and triumphs in a relatable manner, demonstrating how resilience and faith led him to victory.
For spiritually inclined readers, this enlightening book is a goldmine of wisdom, offering guidance for those grappling with spiritual challenges. Alisa’s deep spirituality, evident in her writing, makes this book a compelling read. The detailed descriptions of places and their significance in the narrative further enrich the book.
Journey of a Prophet: Jesus Tells His Story is a highly recommended addition to Christian literature, bringing to life magical stories infused with Alisa’s infectious enthusiasm. With every page, the reader is drawn deeper into the vividly presented world of Jesus’ time, offering an immersive and enlightening reading experience.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/05/30/journey-of-a-prophet-jesus-tells-his-story/
Brainwashed: A True Story of Psychological Domestic Abuse And The PTSD Aftermath shares your story, scientific evidence on the impact of abuse, and the importance of breaking the cycles. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Issues such as Childhood Psychological Abuse and how that can affect someone’s later life and acceptance of domestic violence, and then PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) are all currently such important issues yet so very poorly understood. It’s my hope that Brainwashed will help to change that situation.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
Initially, I published the book in 2014, but then almost immediately withdrew it from publication because I did not want to be publicly reminded of my early life. But living through the most bizarre string of distressing experiences in 2022, that I talk about in Chapter 27, I knew I had to re-structure and republish the book, which I did in 2023. And so the hardest part was having to re-live all those horrific life experiences once again, that I’d previously written about.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Interestingly, when I first published the book the most important ideas to get out were to do with childhood psychological abuse and psychological domestic violence and the reason why people, especially women, remain in abusive relationships. But after this past horrific year, which is still playing out, suddenly, the most important part was to let the world know MUCH more about PTSD. PTSD, is now one of the leading mental health issues in most countries around the world. BUT very few people realise that it is NOT just a MENTAL health issue, but can also result in physical brain damage, and that a trauma can be locked in your brain for life, waiting to escape at any time, as it did for me in 2022. So now the most important chapters are those on PTSD—Chapters 23 to 27.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about psychological abuse?
Sadly, even today in 2023, those people lucky enough to have avoided a mental health issue, or who don’t have the courage to admit to having a mental health issue, still have a very denigrating attitude to anyone who is a mental health sufferer. You can have a broken leg and everyone will support you and totally accept it as tough luck. But have any sort of “broken” brain and all too often you’ll be treated like a second-class citizen, or worse. This must change.
Author Links: Website
After thirty odd years of relentless searching, at the age of sixty-three, Kashonia finally discovered that her greatest enemy was her psychologically abusive childhood. Before that, she’d always thought she’d had a relatively good childhood. Why? Because she hadn’t been physically or sexually abused as a child.
But the subtle psychological abuse she received as a child through until she was twenty was what predisposed her to accept, as “normal”, a very psychologically, and sometimes physically, abusive marriage.
Yet, no matter who read about Kashonia’s event-filled life, the only thing they recognized were the handful of physically violent experiences. They completely dismissed the far more insidious on-going psychological abuse.
It was clear that the only way to help people understand society’s monstrous, hidden epidemic of psychological abuse was to overtly explain it as she told her story. And this is what Kashonia has inspirationally done in Brainwashed.
In Brainwashed, Kashonia’s wry sense of humor occasionally appears as she uses forty years of Behavioral Science, Neuroscience, and Neurolinguistics research to overtly explain her extraordinary life of psychological abuse, its devastating PTSD aftermath, and why people stay in abusive relationships.
Courageously, she shares the serendipitous source of her most significant transformation which gave her the strength to escape her abusive marriage. This was also the mostly unlikely source of her spiritual journey, which has kept her going through the really tough times ever since.
Kashonia’s story is true for more people than we realize. Sadly, all too often the victim/survivors of psychological abuse don’t even realize they’ve been abused.
So her story and her greatest enemy could well be your story and your greatest enemy too.
Today, Kashonia is a Moral Philosopher with a PhD in the Ethics of Conscious Change and author of the Multi-Award-Winning Conscious Change Series of books. It was her life, as documented in Brainwashed that led her to research and write the Conscious Change Series.
In 2023, with a growing concern about mental health and PTSD in non-combatants, Brainwashed is extremely timely for a number of reasons.Brainwashed will be of comfort to other victim/survivors of psychological abuse, in helping them understand at a deeper psychological level, why they do/did make the decisions that they did.
It will also give those very lucky people, who’ve not endured what we victim/survivors have experienced, a greater appreciation of the complexities of psychological abuse, where the scars are all on the inside.
Brainwashed also highlights the life-long psychological damage that negative childhood conditioning can have.
It’s a reminder to psychologists, that even if their client insists they’ve had a good childhood, it must still be explored.
And with the growing community concern about mental health and the area of PTSD, Brainwashed will shed a vital light on what that can be like, and how Kashonia was able to heal.
Order your copy of Brainwashed now—available in Kindle/e-book, paperback, and hardback formats and soon as an audiobook.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/05/30/we-need-change/
The King’s Bloodhound: Bald Foot Curse Book 2 is an intriguing fantasy novel. Why was it important for you to write this book?
The first novel, The Bald Foot Curse (TBFC), ended on a cliffhanger. The Sheriff caught some of the minor villains, but the Baron got away. My protagonist, Rinad, was still grieving the loss of his best friend, Spencer, and Squire Stroud went missing. I felt I needed to continue Rinad’s story to give closure and satisfy fans from the first novel.
Rinad struggles to overcome his own self-doubts and value in order to help his kingdom. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Being a forgiving person was one idea that drove this story. Another is not letting others define who you are because that is something one should do themselves. Rinad experienced some traumatic events in his youth and in TBFC. As an adult, he learns to let go of old grudges, face his grief, and ultimately find his self-confidence.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Faith has always been a foundational part of Rinad’s story. He has to rely on his friends, his deity, and his employer to succeed. He isn’t super powerful, but he is talented, resourceful, and surrounded by friends. But the main focus of this story was that Rinad needed to learn to have faith in himself. I think it is an important message that people need to hear. We aren’t alone in the world. We all need one another and sometimes a little help from a higher power makes all the difference. Success in life is a team effort.
Where does the next book in the series take the characters?
Underground. Rinad’s next story is going to be an effort to break up the human/Demi human trafficking ring that is powering the evil Farin empire. Stroud will be back as a knight this time using his particular talent to help stop the smugglers in route. Rinad as a lifelong woodsman will be dealing with a different problem. Exploring the mines beneath Farin is not his cup of tea. And we will learn more about Rinad’s people, a whole tribe of halflings with bald feet.
Author Links: Website
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/05/30/success-in-life-is-a-team-effort/