“Ich werde es zerreissen”—“I’m going to slash it.” So asserted the five- or six-year-old future novelist Nathalie Sarraute to her Swiss governess as she held a pair of scissors above a stuffed armchair. The governess protested. The future novelist held firm: “Yes, I’m going to do it”…There now, I’m freeing myself, excitement and exaltation impel […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/06/22/escaping-biography-nathalie-sarraute-ann-jefferson/
In the 1960s and 1970s, in advance of a plan to expand a local road, a team of archaeologists in Coventry excavated the grounds of what had once been a Carmelite friary, founded in 1342 just inside the walls of the medieval city. Of the friary’s ecclesiastical past little remained. “Whitefriars”—as it was familiarly known, […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/06/22/right-busy-with-sticks-and-spales-tudor-children-orme/
Nearly two years after the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul, the UN refers to the regime only as “the de facto authorities,” to avoid any hint of formal recognition of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, as the Taliban call their government. By any name, the Taliban today control Afghanistan’s territory, as well as federal […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/06/22/who-are-the-taliban-now-hassan-abbas/
Tigger was my wife’s cat, found as a stray and passed on to her by a cousin when he was about a year and a half old. He lived with her in Boston, before we met, when she was working at a big law firm. On Sunday nights she would order in from an Italian […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/06/22/meow-cats-galore-encore-susan-herbert/
An acquaintance of mine, a rising star among lawyers who practice before the Supreme Court, asked me what I was reading these days. When I replied, “A biography of Judge Irving Kaufman,” the young man looked puzzled. “The name sounds familiar,” he said. “Who was he?” “The judge who sentenced the Rosenbergs to death,” I […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/06/22/not-how-he-wanted-to-be-remembered-judgment-and-mercy-irving-kaufman/
Ink Blood Sister Scribe by Emma Törzs delivered a story about sisters, magic books and secret libraries. Threads combined, and the suspense built as we met new characters and uncovered truths in this debut novel. Grab an iced coffee and check out this fantasy.
Ink Blood Sister Scribe
by Emma Törzs
Genres: Fantasy
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
In this spellbinding debut novel, two estranged half-sisters tasked with guarding their family’s library of magical books must work together to unravel a deadly secret at the heart of their collection–a tale of familial loyalty and betrayal, and the pursuit of magic and power.
For generations, the Kalotay family has guarded a collection of ancient and rare books. Books that let a person walk through walls or manipulate the elements–books of magic that half-sisters Joanna and Esther have been raised to revere and protect.
All magic comes with a price, though, and for years the sisters have been separated. Esther has fled to a remote base in Antarctica to escape the fate that killed her own mother, and Joanna’s isolated herself in their family home in Vermont, devoting her life to the study of these cherished volumes. But after their father dies suddenly while reading a book Joanna has never seen before, the sisters must reunite to preserve their family legacy. In the process, they’ll uncover a world of magic far bigger and more dangerous than they ever imagined, and all the secrets their parents kept hidden; secrets that span centuries, continents, and even other libraries . . .
In the great tradition of Ninth House, The Magicians, and Practical Magic, this is a suspenseful and richly atmospheric novel that draws readers into a vast world filled with mystery and magic, romance, and intrigue–and marks the debut of an extraordinary new voice in speculative fiction.
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I loved the idea of magic books & secret libraries. In Ink Blood Sister Scribe, we meet the Kalotay family. They guard magic books and live in a house in Vermont. Don’t bother looking for it. You’ll never be able to find it, thanks to well-placed wards.
Half-sisters Joanna and Esther are separated when Mr. Kalotay has an untimely death. Esther heeding her father’s warnings moves every year and hasn’t been home since his passing. Joanna lives alone and resets the wards each evening. I might add she is also attempting to write a magic book.
Across the globe, Nicholas, a young scribe, is guarded by his Uncle. His only companion is Collin, the muscle hired to protect him. He writes magic books at his uncle’s bidding.
We follow threads on the sisters and Nicholas as we learn about the books, encounter dangers and learn more about the characters themselves. Slowly, the threads intertwine and with them comes new knowledge, discoveries, betrayal, and danger.
The concept was intriguing, but the story dragged me in. I will admit it took me a while to get into the story and find my footing. When Esther and Nicholas’s stories intertwined and things became more dangerous, I found myself hooked.
I enjoyed each character and we’ve got some diversity with an LGBTQ heroine and hints of romance. It’s a story of secrets, trust, betrayal, and the lust for power whenever magic is present.
Fans of Practical Magic will find this intriguing. I think I would have enjoyed this more on audio and while this story was wrapped up nicely, there is room for future stories.
Amazon | Audible
EMMA TÖRZS is a writer, teacher, and occasional translator based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Her fiction has been honored with an NEA fellowship in prose,a World Fantasy Award for Short Fiction, and an O. Henry Prize. Her stories have been published in journals such as Ploughshares, Uncanny Magazine, Lightspeed, Strange Horizons, and American Short Fiction. She received her MFA from the University of Montana, Missoula, and is an enthusiastic member of the Clarion West class of 2017.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/06/ink-blood-sister-scribe-by-emma-torzs.html
The Airline Transition Manual might be targeted at pilots and flight crew. Still, it transcends the confines of the cockpit, offering insights and lessons that are as universal as they are uniquely aviation-centric. Its authors—Richard Swindell, Jolanda Witvliet, and Andrew Ross—dexterously weave together technical, serious, and delightful aspects of airline operations. They strike a balance between engaging the aviation neophyte and satisfying those more familiar with the industry’s jargon.
The authors have built a bridge between the complexities of the aviation industry and readers who may be venturing into this world for the first time. These three seasoned pilots share their hard-earned wisdom and extensive knowledge, making the manual a vital resource for prospective aviation professionals. The title’s promise of a smooth transition into the industry isn’t an overstatement but a testament to the authors’ in-depth exploration of the field.
At the heart of any great book lies the ability to begin at the beginning. The authors fulfill this by demystifying the different carriers, examining their evolution, and delving into how historical events have shaped the airline industry. One of the book’s many strengths is its engaging discussion on the profound changes following 9/11. The reader is effortlessly drawn in, not by monotonous recitations, but through the authors’ knack for imbuing even the most somber topics with compelling theories and captivating trivia.
The breadth of the book’s content is remarkable, covering subjects as diverse as training, company orientation, scheduling, medical certification, deployment, interviewing, and transitioning. The authors dive deep into these themes, providing comprehensive knowledge essential for industry newcomers. A particularly insightful section on unions offers budding pilots invaluable insights into the benefits of professional associations, underlining their contribution to career development and mental well-being.
While the casual reader may be more entranced by the book’s lighter discussions, its technical side, full of industry-specific terms and phrases, adds a layer of authenticity and depth. As a result, this book is more than a reference tool for aspiring pilots; it’s a treasure trove of knowledge for inquisitive minds that are intrigued by the multifaceted world around them.
The Airline Transition Manual manages to be both enlightening and entertaining, answering the myriad questions that curious readers might have. This fascinating book isn’t just a guidebook; it’s a window into the behind-the-scenes operations of airline companies—a remarkable achievement by its authors.
Pages: 342 | ASIN : B09RNC6LGZ
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/01/the-airline-transition-manual/
In the realm where dragons are often relegated to the realm of fiction or ancient history, the enigmatic dragon, Kahnilla, exists shrouded in the obscurity of shadows. As she embarks on tireless journeys from one location to another, Kahnilla’s ultimate quest is to reunite with her long-lost kin. Amidst one of these poignant expeditions, she serendipitously crosses paths with Rory, a man characterized by his rigid thinking and unyielding convictions. A surprising friendship blossoms despite their stark differences, with both Kahnilla and Rory learning invaluable lessons from each other.
Kahnilla the Dragon: A Tale of Darkness and Light by Karina McRoberts is an enchanting tale serving as a transformative self-exploration odyssey. Each interaction between the characters provides a platform for challenging entrenched beliefs and the development of a more open perspective toward the encompassing world. As their narratives intertwine and evolve, both characters begin to understand the profound influence of empathy, compassion, and the potency that arises from embracing diversity.
The embodiment of the extraordinary and the unconventional, Kahnilla’s character unfolds as a delightful surprise, demonstrating a level of humanity that surpasses her draconian nature. Moreover, she has witnessed the best and worst of human history during her time in the world, which makes her character even more compelling. Meanwhile, Rory is an intriguing study of personal evolution; his staunch beliefs are tested, and his character is reshaped through shared experiences.
The book’s title and brevity might suggest that it is primarily intended for a younger audience, but this notion should not be misleading. Despite its modest length, the narrative is brimming with profound lessons that provoke introspection about our own beliefs and behaviors.
Kahnilla the Dragon: A Tale of Darkness and Light is a compelling tale that is recommended for those seeking a swift yet meaningful read or for budding bibliophiles embarking on their literary journey. The universally relatable themes are accessible to beginners and likely to stoke their passion for further reading and exploration of diverse narratives.
Pages: 64
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/01/kahnilla-the-dragon/
In Haunting Pasts, Trevor Wiltzen crafts an engaging tale of mystery, courage, and resilience. The protagonist, Mabel Davison, is a multifaceted character with roles as diverse as motherhood, entrepreneurship, and amateur detective work. Her acute intellect, indomitable resolve, and astute intuition characterize her. Unpopular among the townsfolk due to an inadvertent bust of a local drug ring, Mabel nonetheless perseveres in her pursuit of justice. Unfazed by the societal backlash, she relentlessly delves into a troubling situation of disappearances afflicting young women in her town.
The storyline propels forward on the strength of a primary lead, a gang member Mabel had previously helped incarcerate. As Mabel uncovers a trail littered with deception and tantalizing hints of the truth, she finds herself on a chilling collision course with a serial killer.
Haunting Pasts offers a riveting experience, masterfully challenging the reader’s perception of time, trust, and reality. Wiltzen’s prose exudes magnetism, effortlessly drawing readers into an immersive narrative environment. His adept manipulation of time, seamlessly entwining past and present, breathes life into the characters, making their tribulations tangible and their residual trauma palpable.
The plot’s architecture is meticulous and true to the essence of detective fiction. Wiltzen has the ability to create an intricate jigsaw puzzle, each piece slotting into place as the narrative unfolds. As a result, observing the broader picture materialize is a uniquely satisfying experience, despite some periods of slower pacing as the narrative meticulously lays down plot details. These lulls are swiftly eclipsed by the mounting suspense and intrigue that ratchet up as the plot advances.
The exploration of the central theme of ‘haunting pasts’ offers a compelling, if straightforward, examination of psychological trauma and its aftermath. Wiltzen’s approach is accessible, potentially inviting a broader audience to engage with these complex themes. For connoisseurs of the psychological thriller genre, the familiarity of certain plot elements may offer a comforting echo of classic narratives, providing a sense of nostalgia and grounding in well-trodden thematic terrain.
Haunting Pasts comes highly recommended for those looking to dip their toes into the genre or enthusiasts of 80s investigative dramas. Trevor Wiltzen’s novel is a thrilling and immersive journey into the heart of a small town riddled with dark secrets.
Pages: 318 | ASIN : B0BVJZ5S7S
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/01/haunting-pasts/
Karma Two follows a boy born into poverty who, while living on the streets, gets a chance to change his life for the better and help others in the same situation. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setup for the story was that I wanted to find a way to keep true to the storyline from the first novel, while giving a voice to many abuse victims I have encountered throughout my actual life. Having lived a life where I endured my own share of abuse, I met many that had even worse abuse than me. I wanted to loosely incorporate scenarios where I had either experienced or witnessed the horrible treatment myself or tell the stories of those I encountered in nursing school on a psychiatric ward or the abused women and addicts I’ve helped along the way. As difficult as the material may be to read, the unfortunate part is that some of these situations have people with real names behind the made-up characters. When I read this book I remember my friends and family and our fight to make a better life from the little we were given to work with. While not everyone made it out, I am honored to tell their stories for them.
AJ was dealt a hard hand in life and he turns it around before setting out to help others do the same. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Coming from a life of poverty and abuse it wasn’t a far stretch to imagine a character who, like me, just knew there must be more to life than what he was born into. I knew if I wanted to see change that it would have to start in me. I would need to find a way to forgive my betrayers to push forward on my own new path with a lighter heart. Having been from the scenario I was raised in, I found compassion for those who by choice or the luck of the draw are in less-than-optimal circumstances in life. I wanted to create a character that showed even the harshest of lives don’t have to break you. Within my own healing journey I have found ways to give back to those who are still struggling in aspects of their lives and through this I’ve further continued to heal myself. I wanted to incorporate those traits into my character as well, to give him relatability and compassion for others that the reader would feel is always present.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Some of the most important themes I wanted to incorporate within my storyline were: to keep a stark contrast between the two AJ characters, to incorporate spiritual concepts that would intrigue the reader to get them thinking, and bring awareness to several key causes that are dear to my heart as well. I wanted to highlight certain important character traits in my characters such as determination, perseverance, loyalty, generosity, accountability, integrity, hard work, and honesty, to name just a few.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I am currently working on a Hospice Children’s Line of sorts that should be starting to be published and ready for purchase by the end of the year. Colleen’s Bereavement Line will be ready before you know it so keep an eye out.
Author Links: Facebook | Instagram | Website | TikTok
In Karma Two, the conclusion to the story begun in Karma One, AJ is given the chance to right past wrongs and find the happiness that has eluded him in previous lifetimes. With the help of spiritual guides, AJ tries to break free from the cycle of greed and power that has haunted his family. Will he be able to overcome his past and create a brighter future?
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/01/giving-abuse-victims-a-voice/