In Poe’s “The Imp of the Perverse” (1845), a man pulls off a perfect crime—to be precise, he pulls off a perfect murder, which he considers so masterful that it can’t go unreported. He develops the need to tell someone about it—to tell anyone or everyone—and, driven by this need, finds himself dashing to the […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/06/06/the-imps-of-his-age/
Happy Release Day to THE LADY AND THE EARL by USA Today Bestselling author Ruth A. Casie. This is the second standalone historical regency romance in the Return to the Ladies of Sommer by the Sea. Grab a cup of iced coffee and read an excerpt. Be sure to enter to win a signed copy of The Lady and Her Quill.
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A woman’s gaslighting behavior is a prescription for disaster.
But for whom?
Lady Harriet Manning is a skilled physician. She spends her days assisting her father, a renowned physician, and volunteering with the Ladies Auxiliary. Despite her passion for medicine and helping those in need, Harriet is bound by societal expectations that prevent her
from practicing medicine openly. Meanwhile, her mother is constantly pressuring her to find a suitable husband.
During a trip back to London, Lord Asheton, the Earl of Lockford, has a riding accident and is brought to Harriet’s clinic for treatment. The two grow close during his recovery, and their relationship begins to blossom. However, when Harriet’s family discovers that Asheton is the son of the Duke of Whippany, they are shocked. Harriet’s mother encourages her to put her medical abilities aside and conform to society’s expectations in order to fit in with Gavin’s world.
Despite their engagement, the ton is not happy with the match. Daphne Willis, in particular, has other plans in mind. Will Harriet and Asheton be able to overcome the obstacles in their path and find true love?
Return to the Ladies of Sommer By the Sea
Chapter One
Sommer-by-the-Sea
September 1816
Lady Harriet Manning didn’t note the sun-filled day, its warmth, or its beauty. Nor did she observe the clear blue sky with an occasional stray cloud sailing out of sight. If she took the time and stepped out into the garden of Cranford House, her family home, she would have found the fragrance of the fallen leaves, autumn flowers and the slightly salty air invigorating. Unfortunately for Harriet, none of that happened. She was otherwise occupied.
She didn’t experience any of the wonders of the day. Instead, she sat in the north end of the family library, studying scratches in a document’s margins, then scribbled in earnest on a piece of paper. She knew the information the tome contained quite well. It was the notations, the thoughts of her father, as well as those of the military physician, Dr. James Barry, that held her attention.
The library was a warm room from the red damask curtains to the mahogany bookshelves filled with over 4,000 books, several dating to the 14th century. The French windows along the length of the room offered a doorway and view of the garden. The fireplace stood in the middle of the bookshelves and was opposite the windows. In front of the hearth was a rather large settee, several chairs, and tables to create a variety of areas for discourse.
All this was enjoyable, but it was the north end of the room where she felt most comfortable. Here, surrounded by her father’s medical books and papers, was where she spent her time.
Poised to inscribe yet another note, she halted. Her quill hovered inches above the paper as her fine mind sorted out and applied what she read. Pieces of the puzzle shifted, until one by one, they fell into place, sending her into a writing frenzy.
In a rush, her heart shot to her stomach, then back into her throat. She pushed her chair back from the desk and hurried to the glass-enclosed bookcase in the far corner of the room, where her father kept his most precious books.
Her fingertips ran over the spines as she disregarded one book after another. She stopped and reread one spine. Slowly, she let out a deep breath, removed the 14th century Italian medical book from the shelf, and brought it back to the desk.
Harriet opened the treasure and hungrily searched the pages. Several items caught her attention, but she refused to give in to the urge. Instead, she banished the thought from her mind and paged through the book. The information she wanted was here, somewhere.
She was quickly coming to the end of the tome and still had no success. She glanced at the bookcase behind her. Had she been wrong? Frustrated and ready to put the volume away, she turned the page. There waiting for her was the information she sought.
Slow down. Take a deep breath.
Her racing heart returned to normal as she confirmed the recipe. The juice was an old remedy that was no longer in fashion, but the medicinal benefit was logical. Apples. As she read on, one idea after another surfaced. Harriet fiercely wrote them down before they flew out of her head as quickly as they appeared. This was not a cure by any means, but it would ease—
“Why do you spend so much time reading those papers is beyond me.” Lady Manning swept in. As grand as the library was, her mother managed to drain all the air from the room the moment she entered. Jane, Harriet’s lady’s maid, trailed behind with material draped over her arms.
A country girl, Jane took her job seriously. She was loyal, compassionate, and helped to keep Lady Harriet organized. Although if one were to ask her, Jane would say that her ladyship had that well in hand. Tall and thin with a pale complexion, she kept her dark hair in a simple bun at the nape of her neck.
Harriet couldn’t quite make out what it was. Or to be more precise, she didn’t care to make it out. The thought of how to adjust the medicine was lost, and she returned to reading the document. With any luck, the forgotten idea would resurface.
An incessant, low, steady sound droned on, interrupting her concentration. She would have tossed the paper on the desk if she could. Her mother was humming as she attended to Jane’s bundle, now placed with care on the chair on the other side of the desk.
Despite not wanting to smile, Harriet’s lips slowly formed a grin. The melody was one she used to beg her mother to sing when she was young. Another deep breath and once again, she read the document, the same paragraph for the third time.
She lifted her head, prepared to suggest her mother might be more comfortable in the morning room. She put down her quill and glanced at her. She wasn’t being fair. Her mother didn’t mean her any ill will. Harriet let out a defeated sigh. On the contrary, her mother encouraged Harriet to find her own way and pursue her interests.
Mama tolerated her daughter helping her father. Helping him was one thing. However, striking out on her own as a physician was another.
She grew up in a progressive home, an oddity in London. To others, a midwife, even a bonesetter could be tolerated, but a female physician was beyond acceptance especially by the ton. And for a woman such as herself—titled and with funds—well, she needn’t do anything, other than marry.
“Madam Pembroke sent your gown.”
Her mother pulled away the material covering her prize and held up a stunning pale green creation.
“A ball gown?” Harriet’s gaze flicked upward.
Please, Mother. Not now.
Her mother brought the gown to her, the silky material begging to be touched.
“We’ll be in London for your father’s presentation at The Royal College of Physicians. I plan for you to take full advantage of the Season.”
Harriet picked up the papers, paused, then put them down. No use trying to concentrate on the documents now. She was well aware of the direction her mother would take the conversation next.
“You can’t stay barricaded in this library or at the clinic. How do you plan to meet anyone? Do you expect a young man will simply present himself at the door?”
Harriet half listened to her mother lament. Her mother went on and on, and she found herself staring at the attractive soft fabric now on the desk.
Madam Pembroke created an outstanding gown. The seafoam-green creation was beautiful. The bodice was delicately embroidered with a fine silk thread, then enhanced with artistically placed seed pearls. A spray of the small pearls cascaded down the front of the skirt and pooled at the hem. The design was breathtaking. Where would she wear it? She had no intention of attending parties or the theater. Harriet was going to London for one reason and one reason only.
Her mother may be excited about the Season, but Harriet looked forward to sitting in the gallery at the Royal College to listen to her father’s presentation.
With admiration, Harriet gazed up at her mother who never failed to astound her. Despite her average height and willowy figure, the woman’s piercing blue eyes never missed a thing. She was elegant and refined with a regal bearing that commanded attention.
With a strong sense of social justice and advocacy work on behalf of the less fortunate, her mother was an inspiration to many, including Harriet.
Her mother placed the gown over the back of the chair and sat beside her, her hand resting on her arm. Harriet examined her face for signs of judgment and disapproval. But all she saw was compassion and worry. And the shade of something else. Hope.
Who was she to dash all her dreams?
“Would you like to slip it on? It is the perfect color with your hair.” Her mother brushed a curl from her face. “I’ve always thought it the color of a fine burgundy. And your amber eyes rimmed with sparkles of gold. Yes. This dress will be perfect.”
“You go on. I’ll wait.”
The cadence of the song was woven in her voice. Mama was not playing fairly.
“Mama, I would adore trying on the gown, but I cannot at the moment. With Father away tending a patient in Royston Mills, I must take his place at the clinic.”
Her mother stood and picked up the gown. She fluffed the skirt, then gazed at Harriet.
“The color is perfect for you.” Her smile got brighter if that were possible.
“The color is as beautiful as the gown.” Harriet gathered the papers and put them into a folio.
She went through the basket that sat on the library table. Bandages, tinctures, salves, and small envelopes of several medicines. Satisfied she had everything, she closed the basket and put on her spencer.
“I promised Father I would see to any patients who came in while he was gone.”
Her mother buttoned her coat, as she did for her father before he went out.
“Do I pass inspection?” Harriet couldn’t stay annoyed with her long.
“Of course you do.” Her mother stood back and regarded her work.
“I’ll try on the gown for you when I get home.”
“After dinner then. Your father won’t be home for another day or so. I have you all to myself.”
Download book one: The LADY AND THE BARRISTER for FREE, this week only!
RUTH A. CASIE is a USA Today bestselling author of historical swashbuckling action-adventures and contemporary romance with enough action to keep you turning pages. Her stories feature strong women and the men who deserve them, endearing flaws and all. She lives in New Jersey with her hero, three empty bedrooms and a growing number of incomplete counted cross-stitch projects. Before she found her voice, she was a speech therapist (pun intended), client liaison for a corrugated manufacturer, and vice president at an international bank where she was a product/marketing manager, but her favorite job is the one she’s doing now-writing romance. She hopes her stories become your favorite adventures.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/06/book-tour-the-lady-and-the-earl-by-ruth-a-casie.html
The Palace of Stars is an absolutely captivating and brilliantly written novel that is sure to enchant readers of all ages. Set across two distinct time periods, the story follows the journey of a young and inexperienced police officer named Mike, who awakens from a coma to find himself in the care of an elderly bookstore owner named Mari. As he navigates his new reality, he discovers an enchanted portal within the bookstore that transports him back to the early 1900s, where he is suddenly thrust into a world of intrigue and mystery.
What sets The Palace of Stars apart from other historical romance or time travel books is its perfect balance of magic, mystery, and historical fiction. The transitions between timelines are seamless and easy to follow, and the charismatic characters are so richly drawn that readers will find themselves deeply invested in their fates. Mari, in particular, is an absolutely delightful character, and her courage and empathy toward Mike are genuinely inspiring.
This extraordinary novel gradually unfurls, meticulously weaving the reader into the intricate tapestry of its characters’ world. As one grows to deeply understand these characters, a subtle but steady momentum builds. This gradually simmering action culminates in a climax that is both electrifying and fulfilling, making the initial slow-burn progression not only justified but rewarding. The twists and turns near the end of the book are absolutely thrilling, and the chemistry between the characters, especially Mike and Mae, is electric.
Overall, The Palace of Stars is a truly fantastic book that will indeed become a classic in the genre of historical mystery and romance. It is a great starting point for what promises to be an exciting and thrilling series, and readers will find themselves eagerly anticipating the next installment from this talented author.
Pages: 289 | ASIN : B01HH2OHZ2
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/06/the-palace-of-the-stars/
Author J.B. Auchter takes young readers on a fun and inspirational adventure following the journey of a raindrop as it begins its life in a cloud. Its only wish is to make others happy, but it doesn’t know how it will do that as a tiny raindrop. The raindrop breaks away from the cloud and sails down to earth. On its way, it encounters a variety of things, creatures, and people. How will it find a way to bring joy to others?
The Raindrop is indeed a standout within the realm of children’s literature. Its key message encourages readers to appreciate that size does not limit the potential for significant impact. The beautiful rhyming scheme, prevalent throughout the narrative, is designed to effortlessly captivate and hold young children’s attention, utilizing language that is simple yet engaging.
Complementing the narrative are the captivating illustrations that echo the enchanting tone of the book. The raindrop is depicted with endearing emotion and eyes that sparkle with vitality, adding depth and personality to our small protagonist. Young readers are sure to relish following along as the raindrop interacts with a variety of objects and people.
The Raindrop delivers a heartwarming message that can resonate with young children who may sometimes feel too small to make a difference. The story beautifully demonstrates that with the right amount of aspiration and initiative, anyone can spread joy and realize their dreams. This charming book is an exemplary testament to the fact that greatness can indeed originate from the smallest of things.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0BDBZWBT6
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/06/the-raindrop/
Hermione Lee’s Helen’s Tale is an enthralling exploration into the realms of fantasy, horror, and adventure. From the gripping opening line to the poignant conclusion, readers will find themselves irresistibly drawn into the narrative, yearning to discover the events that unfold. Despite the book’s prevailing darkness, it brilliantly illuminates the slender rays of hope that seep through its melancholic framework. This narrative offers a compelling message: the power of hope endures unceasingly for those who place their faith in it.
Set in a meticulously crafted fictional universe teeming with magic, Helen’s Tale presents us with a divided world: the Otherworld, the primary setting, and the Underworld, a grueling trial ground for our protagonists. As readers navigate through this world, they are entwined in complex court politics involving the monarchy and a rigid social hierarchy. Lee’s engaging prose and vivid world-building effortlessly transport readers into this new, enchanting setting.
The narrative revolves around Helen, the Representative Elder and chief royal advisor. We witness her grapple with cutthroat court politics and the animosity of fellow Elders. The introduction of Evonne, her protégé, catalyzes a transformation in Helen’s melancholic demeanor, infusing her life with newfound joy. Although the story begins on a somewhat lighthearted note, it soon descends into a hauntingly gothic ambiance as the plot advances.
As a book that resides firmly in the Dark Fantasy genre, readers will encounter some challenging and potentially disturbing topics. Some of the themes in this gripping novel are bullying, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and mental illness, encompassing visions and hallucinations. While these themes are intense, they are skillfully woven into the character development of Helen giving readers a rich protagonist.
The journey of Helen and Evonne is a thrilling rollercoaster of high-stakes adventures and trials, emotional peaks and valleys, and joy and sorrow. Helen’s Tale comes with my highest recommendation for those who revel in narratives imbued with dark themes and adventures laced with intrigue.
Pages: 222 | ASIN : B0C3GH2T5Z
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/06/helens-tale/
Melissa Burrowes’ novel, They Were All Loyal, embarks on an intrepid journey that delves into the realm of fictional land Sarrilla’s diplomatic negotiations with Emperor Li of Longguo, focusing on critical environmental disputes. Cold wars escalating into heated conflicts, exhilarating manhunts, and scientific debacles all form part of this captivating narrative. At the forefront of the movement against animal cruelty and large-scale production stands Prime Minister James Tresser, whose leadership unfolds in a manner reminiscent of the Hunger Games series. The survival of physical challenges leaves characters and readers alike pondering over every decision made, the lives they saved, and those they didn’t, all in the name of their land’s future.
Within the pages of this enthralling novel, Melissa Burrowes guides readers on an enchanting journey through a meticulously crafted world adorned with oriental landscapes, mesmerizing creatures, and political upheavals. The author’s talent for worldbuilding shines brilliantly as she expertly constructs a vibrant, immersive setting that springs to life with vividness and depth. It is the kind of literary work that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned, making it difficult to return to the ordinary routines of everyday life.
While the commendable worldbuilding stands out, I felt that Burrowes’ use of language occasionally falls short. The author’s choice of vernacular tends to lean towards simplicity, particularly in the context of a niche fictional wartime narrative. As a reader, I found myself yearning for more nuanced and evocative prose that would truly transport me into the depths of this intriguing realm. However, Burrowes’ storytelling prowess remains evident, effortlessly captivating readers with an engaging plot, distinct humor, and well-crafted characters. The narrative unfolds with a perfect blend of suspense and surprises as alliances are tested and loyalties are challenged, leaving readers invested in the outcome until the very last page.
Every page of this novel showcases Melissa Burrowes’ remarkable talent for storytelling. The story’s strength and the characters’ depth make this a must-read novel. This is a book that will fascinate and engross readers, leaving an indelible impression long after the final word is read.
Pages 321
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/06/they-were-all-loyal/
Z, also known as Zoe, is an enigmatic genius who has transitioned from a tortured soul to a distinguished scientist and medical doctor, unveiling her profound inclination towards the realm of microbiology from an early age. Harnessing her extraordinary gift, she delves into the realm of manipulating and crafting a myriad of lethal bacteria. Intriguingly, upon realizing her own biological complexities as a pseudohermaphrodite, she intriguingly perceives her utilization of these deadly microorganisms as a form of artistic expression, positioning herself as the orchestrator of swift retribution against those she deems deserving.
Teaming up with the brilliant Emil Solas, Z successfully scales up her creation of microorganisms, unleashing repercussions of global significance. As her fortunes grow, she finds solace in the embrace of her newfound family. However, this idyllic existence is abruptly shattered as a single misstep threatens to unravel her meticulously constructed empire. As the authorities begin to unearth the truth behind her true identity and the chilling reality of her creations, Z must navigate the treacherous waters of protecting her loved ones while relentlessly striving to create what she envisions as her magnum opus.
An Infectious Game, crafted by the talented duo of Pablo Omar Zaragoza and co-author Susan Giffin, is an exhilarating literary endeavor that ventures far beyond the realm of the ordinary. This gripping narrative unfolds through a riveting collection of case files, accompanied by captivating video recordings, all woven together with multiple perspectives, granting the reader an immersive experience reminiscent of a captivating crime novel. Indeed, one becomes intimately acquainted with the intricacies of the killer’s mind, the machinations of her accomplices, and the relentless pursuit of justice by the astute detectives, forging a web of diverse characters with genuine relationships and layered narratives.
While the authors admirably integrate an abundance of medical language into the fabric of the story, allowing readers to comprehend the intricate scientific aspects, it must be noted that this meticulous attention to detail may prove overwhelming to some. Nevertheless, Zaragoza and Giffin adeptly strike a balance, ensuring that the technical terminology remains accessible to a broader audience. The authors exhibit an unwavering commitment to delivering a richly immersive experience by meticulously crafting a tapestry of minutiae. From the precise specifications of a character’s breakfast order to the utilization of medical jargon, the authors leave no stone unturned. It is important to note that An Infectious Game delves into highly sensitive subject matter, such as sexual abuse of a minor, rape, body horror, and instances of animal torture and death. Readers must exercise caution and be prepared for the unsettling nature of these themes. While the premise and methodologies employed by the central antagonist, as well as the captivating supporting characters, prove undeniably intriguing, certain scenes prioritize shock value over substantive content, detracting from the overall experience.
An Infectious Game is a thought-provoking journey into the mind of a complex and formidable protagonist, leaving an indelible mark on those brave enough to delve into its pages. This thriller novel keeps readers hooked from the opening pages through till the end.
Pages: 482 | ASIN : B07Z457YSM
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/06/an-infectious-game/