Four years ago Lisa Blatt argued a case before the Supreme Court called Carpenter v. Murphy. It rested on whether a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation who was convicted of murder was under the criminal jurisdiction of Oklahoma or the federal government—a question that itself depended on whether a swath of eastern Oklahoma was […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/06/07/a-can-of-gasoline-under-indian-law/
Charlotte and Wrexford investigate the world of finance to exonerate siblings while exploring their own feelings in Murder at Queen’s Landing by Andrea Penrose. This is the fourth audiobook in the historical murder-mystery series Wrexford & Sloane and narrated by the talented James Cameron Stewart. Grab a cup of tea and see why I am obsessed with this amateur detective duo.
Murder at Queen’s Landing
by Andrea Penrose
Series: Wrexford & Sloane #4
Narrator: James Cameron Stewart
Length: 13 hours and 4 minutes
Genres: Mystery
Source: Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x
When Lady Cordelia, a brilliant mathematician, and her brother, Lord Woodbridge, disappear from London, rumors swirl concerning fraudulent bank loans and a secret consortium engaged in an illicit – and highly profitable – trading scheme that threatens the entire British economy. The incriminating evidence mounts, but for Charlotte and Wrexford, it’s a question of loyalty and friendship. And so they begin a new investigation to clear the siblings’ names, uncover their whereabouts, and unravel the truth behind the whispers.
As they delve into the murky world of banking and international arbitrage, Charlotte and Wrexford also struggle to navigate their increasingly complex feelings for each other. But the clock is ticking – a cunning mastermind has emerged…along with some unexpected allies – and Charlotte and Wrexford must race to prevent disasters both economic and personal as they are forced into a dangerous match of wits in an attempt to beat the enemy at his own game.
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Lady Cordelia befriended our duo in the previous novel, and they have become friends. Rumors of fraudulent bank loans and stolen secrets that could threaten the British empire bring us a suspenseful mystery. When Lady Cordelia and Lord Woodbridge, her brother, go missing, they stand accused of the crimes. Of course Wrexford & Sloane must investigate.
What a clever tale Penrose has crafted. I was pulled in from the very beginning as the mystery hooked me. Of course, I enjoy spending time with this couple and their circle of allies, wards, and servants.
The stakes were high and danger lurked around every corner with each clue they unraveled. This forced the two to spend more time with each other, and it was delicious. The romance sees some developments that left me giddy, despite knowing it was inevitable. Their relationship feels genuine and they are well suited. The Weasels aided and have stolen my heart. It’s the characters that make this series for me.
Despite the intense mystery, there were moments that made me laugh and I dare say I am eager to continue the series. I scooped up the rest of the series using Kindle Unlimited to buy the audiobooks at a reduced price.
James Cameron Stewart narrates the series and does a splendid job of giving voice to each of the characters. He perfectly captures their personalities, mannerisms and the bond between them. I highly recommend listening.
Amazon* | Audible
Andrea Penrose is the USA Today bestselling author of Regency-era historical fiction, including the acclaimed Wrexford & Sloane mystery series, as well as Regency romances written under the names Cara Elliott and Andrea Pickens. Published internationally in ten languages, she is a three-time RITA Award finalist and the recipient of numerous writing awards, including two Daphne Du Maurier Awards for Historical Mystery and two Gold Leaf Awards. A graduate of Yale University with a B.A. in Art and an M.F.A. in Graphic Design, Andrea fell in love with Regency England after reading Pride and Prejudice and has maintained a fascination with the era’s swirling silks and radical new ideas throughout her writing career. She lives in Connecticut and blogs with a community of historical fiction authors at WordWenches.com.
James Cameron Stewart trained at Hull University and the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Some theater highlights of his thirty-six-year career include Frank-n-Furter (The Rocky Horror Show), Thénadier (Les Misérables), the poet Philip Larkin in Larkin with Women (Best Actor nominee, MEN Awards 2005), and originating the part of Hamish in Sir Alan Ayckbourn’s Things We Do for Love. In 2008 he published his grandfather’s World War I memoirs and toured his one-man show based on them from 2008 to 2011. His television/film credits include Outlander, Jericho, Flying Blind, Golden Years, Emmerdale, London’s Burning, Eastenders, Coronation Street, Holby City, and Taggart. He often appears on Radio 4, and is a regular presenter on the weekly The Economist podcast. James loves recording audiobooks and is delighted to have had the opportunity to narrate such a variety of magnificent authors, from Seneca through Max Hastings and Antony Beevor, to superlative fiction by J. M. Coetzee, Michael Dibdin, Stuart MacBride, and more.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/06/murder-at-queens-landing-by-andrea-penrose.html
In The Rage Room, S.I. Almanza introduces us to Matt, a character whose life is akin to a ticking time bomb, shaped by a deeply traumatic past. His narrative is one of resilience, struggling to reconcile his troubled upbringing with his present. He was born to a mother whose gentle soul was enslaved by addictive substances, an unfortunate situation that eventually claimed her life. His father, a figure of arrogance and abuse, was the source of further torment. The narrative is further punctuated by the mental health struggles of his younger sister, Jodie, whose battle with severe depression ultimately leads to her tragic suicide. This series of catastrophic events leaves Matt in solitude, grappling with the specters of his past.
Matt’s professional life as a housing officer shines as a beacon of success, a stark contrast to his haunted personal life. However, his encounter with an enigmatic elderly man on a routine train ride shatters this facade, revealing the turbulent undercurrents of his life. This pivotal event triggers a series of revelations about Matt’s latent violent tendencies and the sinister secrets that lie beneath his surface.
In my assessment, Matt’s downfall can be attributed to the unbearable loneliness and his reluctance to seek assistance. Despite being plagued by auditory hallucinations and nightmarish dreams, he found himself unable to confide in anyone. His emotional wounds remained untreated, further fueled by his isolation. Even though his colleague Hayley offered him affection, his pride and past experiences kept her at a distance.
While the narrative is primarily focused on Matt, it would have enhanced the depth of the story to have a richer exploration of the secondary characters. Initially, the suspense of the story was captivating, yet over time, the direction of the narrative became somewhat ambiguous. Matt’s character, however, maintains an air of mystery throughout, with each page unveiling a new facet of his complex personality.
The Rage Room is commendable for its innovative character development and plot structure. Almanza’s talent for crafting vivid descriptions brings the narrative to life, engaging readers in the unfolding drama. For avid readers and fans of psychological thrillers, The Rage Room is an engaging read, combining creative writing with suspenseful storytelling. Almanza’s work will keep you at the edge of your seat, eager to unravel the enigma that is Matt.
Pages: 155 | ASIN : B0C3BMNGV1
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/07/the-rage-room/
Isabel Ricardo’s The Forgotten Treasure is an enchanting fantasy novel inspired by captivating myths and folklore. Set within a treasure hunt, the story uncovers a wealth that transcends mere material worth and delves into the realm of profound knowledge. This pursuit spans multiple sects and kingdoms, traversing the vast tapestry of time itself. Presently, a group of enterprising young individuals, Mike, Kelly, Sarah, and Andy, find themselves entrusted with a clue that leads them through the hallowed halls of museums and monuments, beckoning them ever closer to the final treasure. Yet, even they remain blissfully unaware of the intricacies unfolding around them.
The author crafts a narrative that seamlessly integrates explanations for the events taking place by deftly weaving together historical facts, fiction, and mythical elements. The prose flows with elegance and clarity, captivating readers with its fluidity. I was entranced by the author’s skillful employment of evocative phrases on numerous occasions. The book’s relentless pace, replete with daring escapes and perilous predicaments, imbues the entire adventure with an exhilarating, spine-tingling quality. Notably, the interactions between the young protagonists and their unwavering dedication to their quest are truly commendable. Throughout the story, an ever-present allusion to “The Lusiads,” an epic poem by Portuguese poet Luis Vaz de Camoes, lends an additional layer of depth and richness. The manner in which the narrative unfolds, gradually unveiling the arduous and protracted journey in search of the forgotten treasure, greatly appealed to me. The unexpected twists and turns along the way ensured a consistently engrossing read. Nevertheless, it should be acknowledged that, on occasion, certain actions displayed a degree of predictability. Furthermore, while exploring the intricate tapestry of historical facts and references within the narrative, I discovered the need for supplementary research to fully grasp their profound significance.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Forgotten Treasure to avid readers who relish fictional works grounded in the realities of life. This book will undoubtedly captivate adventure seekers and mystery enthusiasts alike, piquing their curiosity with its tantalizing blend of excitement and enigma.
Pages: 316 | ISBN : 1949868923
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/07/the-forgotten-treasure/
The Question, by Greg Siofer, is a captivating and enigmatic story that follows the extraordinary journey of Nairb and his wife. One fateful day at work, Nairb uncovers his incredible abilities: the power to heal, manifest objects, and even manipulate supernatural occurrences. As they strive to maintain a semblance of normalcy, they soon realize that their newfound powers come with unforeseen risks. Together, Nairb and his wife must navigate these perilous events while guarding their secret from prying eyes. This mysterious narrative is a delightful choice for enthusiasts of suspenseful and action-packed novels.
The concept behind the story is exceptionally imaginative, drawing readers into a world where the extraordinary intersects with the mundane. The characters are skillfully depicted and offer a fascinating exploration of human nature. While some aspects of the characters’ reactions could have been more realistically portrayed, the progression of the narrative, starting from Nairb’s job and its subsequent upheaval due to his newfound powers, was engaging and well-executed. Notably, when his wife accidentally shot him, the absence of immediate panic before discovering his ability to heal himself contributed to the unique and unexpected nature of the narrative. The inclusion of supernatural elements in the storyline proved to be a captivating aspect, leaving readers intrigued and wanting more. Expanding upon the origins or causes behind these powers would undoubtedly deepen the narrative’s complexity and further engage the audience.
The Question exhibits a creative premise, along with well-developed characters and a suspenseful plot, ensuring that readers will be fully immersed in the story. With interesting character reactions and a unique plot this gripping book has the potential to become an absolute must-read for fans of mystery and action genres.
Pages: 168 | ASIN : B0C414CCGR
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/07/the-question/
The XX Edge: Unlocking Higher Returns and Lower Risk focus on the financial impact of gender-focused investing and why women need to have a greater role. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Our collective and extensive experiences in the financial sector, as well as in the field of women’s health, has shown us time and again that women have a transformative impact on the world when they are financial decision-makers.
As investors, we’ve seen firsthand the impact of integrating a gender analysis in financial decision-making. Patience has spearheaded the development of multi-billion-dollar financial platforms and the structuring of large global funds centered around women. On the other hand, Ruth’s experience as an Obstetrician and Gynecologist and founder of Tara Health Foundation gave her insights into the pressing need for innovative programs promoting the health and well-being of women and girls.
However, the mainstream financial sector, which could greatly benefit from more gender-focused investing, is largely not aware of the significant advantages it presents. This lack of awareness inspired us to share our insights in a more accessible and impactful way.
The XX Edge is our answer. We make a compelling data-driven case for investing with a gender and broader diversity focus. Specifically, across all asset classes, when women are central to financial decisions and apply their skills, the results are higher returns for investors leading to significant economic growth.
The book is an invitation to embrace a new paradigm of gender-focused investing where women are not just beneficiaries but also key decision-makers and agents of change. We emphasize this role of women in the economy, as it holds the potential for a more inclusive and profitable future. This isn’t just a theoretical concept but an achievable reality, one that benefits everyone.
Writing The XX Edge has given us a platform to amplify this reality and, we hope, to inspire more individuals and institutions to harness the transformative power of gender-focused investing.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
The research process for The XX Edge: Unlocking Higher Returns and Lower Risk was both extensive and rewarding. Given the depth of the financial analysis we were presenting and the critical nature of the social issues we were addressing, we knew it was essential to be thorough and meticulous in our research.
We combined our decades of professional experiences with a wide range of external resources. We analyzed the latest financial data, explored studies on gender-focused investing, and took a deep dive into economic and social impact research. We also held numerous discussions with experts in the field to ensure that we had a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape and potential future developments.
The research process took approximately 6 months. It was an exciting opportunity to consolidate the compelling data and insights that reinforced our message. The writing process went relatively well once we had a clear understanding of the data and could articulate the financial case for gender-focused investing.
We both cherished our partnership during this journey. We brought to the table our unique insights and experiences, and this collaboration enriched the book immeasurably.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
First, there is an irrefutable financial case for gender-focused investing. Our research shows that when women are at the table for business decisions and investments, enterprises are stronger and financial returns are higher. This is an underutilized strategy that can benefit individual investors and the global economy at large.
Second, we highlight the importance of women as economic agents. Too often, conversations about gender and finance focus solely on how women can benefit from financial resources. But women are more than just recipients; they are innovators, decision-makers, and leaders. When women apply their skills and insights across capital markets, we’ve seen firsthand that they drive significant economic growth. This means recognizing the potential of women to effect change in all areas, including economic, environmental, and social spheres.
Lastly, we wanted to present a vision for a new paradigm in investing – one where gender-focused investing is not seen as a niche strategy but is mainstream and central to financial decision-making. We envision a future where financial institutions and individual investors alike understand and capitalize on the benefits of gender-focused investing.
These ideas have the potential to transform how people think about finance and investment, and we hope that The XX Edge will inspire readers to explore these possibilities further.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from The XX Edge?
If there’s one takeaway we hope readers will glean from our book, it is the understanding that gender-focused investing isn’t just a social or ethical choice, but a sound financial strategy that brings differentiated analysis to decision-making leading to higher returns and lower risk.
Readers will come to appreciate the transformative potential that lies in elevating women as key decision-makers in finance. When women apply their skills and insights across capital markets, it leads to more than just equitable representation; it catalyzes greater economic growth and fosters a more sustainable and inclusive financial ecosystem.
We envision a future where gender-focused investing is mainstream, and we hope that our readers will become ambassadors of this change, understanding its potential and carrying this knowledge into their own lives and communities. Whether they are seasoned investors, financial advisors, or individuals hoping to increase the balance in their retirement accounts, we hope they recognize that investing with a gender and diversity lens is essential for our collective future.
There’s a simple but often overlooked investment strategy to earning higher returns—include women as financial decision-makers within your organization or team. That’s The XX Edge.
Seasoned executives and investors Patience Marime-Ball and Ruth Shaber demonstrate the new paradigm where women are at the center of investing as agents and actors—not just as beneficiaries.
If you manage investments—either your own or others’—you’ll want to understand the data and discover the financial power of The XX Edge:
Gender-inclusive teams are 21% more likely to see outperformance in profitability relative to peers
Female CFOs deliver a 6% increase in profits and an 8% stock performance bump compared to overall performance under male predecessors
New companies with a female founder performed 63% better than those with all-male teams over an observed ten-year period
Women-run hedge funds outperformed the average of larger hedge funds by a margin of 6% over a six-and-a-half-year period
You’ll discover the inherent gender differences between women and men and why these differences make women excellent financial decision makers and investment collaborators. Patience and Ruth unpack the evidence that proves this point across all asset classes.
The XX Edge shows that when women make financial decisions and apply their skills across all capital markets, it leads to higher returns for individual investors and greater economic growth—a true win-win for all.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/07/gender-focused-investing-is-the-future/
Tranquility follows two architects working together on a new resort who, while on assignment, experience a paranormal event and find romance. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The first time I heard the term “soul mate,” I was obsessed. What if there is only one person for each of us? How do you know when you have found “the one?” The world is packed with people. Certainly, there is some higher power at work to make all this happen across the globe. So that is how I got to creating some sort of divine intervention, some super bizarre events that cannot be explained.
I remember when I met my husband. It felt different from meeting other guys. It’s not that I simply thought, “He is good looking,” but I really did feel a spark. Twenty-something years later, still enjoying life together, so I think I got the message loud and clear.
What kind of research did you do for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the story’s theme on green spaces?
My background is in conservation. I have helped create green initiatives in several zoo and aquarium settings, so I was familiar with some of the schematics I put in the book. This is my first delve into fiction writing. My other publications are all scientific articles. Working in conservation is a tragic ending more often than not, which is why I needed a romantic escape.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I think I had the most fun writing the dialogue for when they realize that they are having the same dreams. It’s the mundane that turns into the extraordinary. The two main characters are in the break room, doing typical office coffee things, when one of them makes a joke about what happened in the dream the night before. Up till that point, they do not know that they are really meeting up in their subconscious. The wrestle of wanting to believe those things that can’t be explained is what I want the reader to feel.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
My next book is another sci-fi romance, but this one is based in history as well. It’s about a couple who get in a big fight before the wife leaves for a long trip to mountain climb in southeast Asia. Her flight takes her on MA-370, the Malaysian airplane that disappeared. Just like Titanic, you know how it is going to end, but you go back to see how they met (and the sparks that flew) and their love story. The cliffhanger is to see if they get to apologize to one another before she, and the plane, vanishes.
Taylor has an ordinary life, an ordinary job, and an ordinary boyfriend. Her co-worker, Greg, has the high-end looks to go with his high-end lifestyle. Taylor’s big break comes when she is partnered with Greg to create an ultra-green, luxury resort off the Atlantic coast. As the project moves along, the two experience setbacks. Some small, some in their personal lives, some as large as getting stranded on an island during a hurricane. Their chemistry is palpable and literally electric despite being in long-term relationships. Those relationships might hinder them from being romantic during the day, but not while sleeping.
In Tranquility, by Maggie Durst, readers experience fantasy, comedy, and inspiration to make dreams into reality.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/07/soul-mates-exist/