When Alejandro González Iñárritu’s most recent film premiered last fall, he made a point of calling it not an autobiography but an “emography,” a representation not of his life but of his emotions. This was an understatement. Everything we see in Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths occurs in the theater of the […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/06/15/lonely-at-the-top/
Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood is a standalone stem contemporary romance that delivered friendship, snark, science and a swoons. Theoretical physicist Elsie Hannaway when she goes head to head with experimentalist Jack Smith.
Love, Theoretically
by Ali Hazelwood
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Heat Level: 
The many lives of theoretical physicist Elsie Hannaway have finally caught up with her. By day, she’s an adjunct professor, toiling away at grading labs and teaching thermodynamics in the hopes of landing tenure. By other day, Elsie makes up for her non-existent paycheck by offering her services as a fake girlfriend, tapping into her expertly honed people pleasing skills to embody whichever version of herself the client needs.
Honestly, it’s a pretty sweet gig—until her carefully constructed Elsie-verse comes crashing down. Because Jack Smith, the annoyingly attractive and broody older brother of her favorite client, turns out to be the cold-hearted experimental physicist who ruined her mentor’s career and undermined the reputation of theorists everywhere. And that same Jack who now sits on the hiring committee at MIT, right between Elsie and her dream job.
Elsie is prepared for an all-out war of scholarly sabotage but…those long, penetrating looks? Not having to be anything other than her true self when she’s with him? Will falling into an experimentalist’s orbit finally tempt her to put her most guarded theories on love into practice?
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I loved the premise for Love, Theoretically. Elsie has spent her life changing her personality to please those around her. She is very aware of people’s needs & feelings. She’s a theoretical physicist stuck in adjunct professor position. Which equals dealing with students, low pay, and zero healthcare. She is trying to find a tenured position, but in the meantime she supplements her income through a fake girlfriend service.
When she is asked to interview, she is ecstatic, that is until she comes face to face with Jack Smith. Her mentor’s nemesis and the half-brother of the guy she’s been pretending to be a fake girlfriend for….lol. From time spent at family gathers to his broody personality, one can’t help but feel the sizzling charge between them.
This story had a lot going for it, from a look inside scholarly pursuits to battles between theorists and experimentalists. I liked Elsie, admired her smarts and respected her for keeping her client’s secret. While, I appreciated her ability to read people, and that Jack threw her for a loop. I hated how she let family and people define her. Hazelwood allowed for character growth, and I enjoyed watching Elsie find herself.
Jack was a swoon-worthy geek who fell for. I adored how he protected his brother and mother. Despite questioning her intents with his brother, Jack respected Elsie as a scientist and was patient as she worked through things.
The romance was swoony and not filled with miscommunication. It was refreshing. The back-and-forth banter, snark, science quibbles and heat keep me reading. Secondary characters from a snarky grandmother to Jack’s brother and Elsie’s roommate added to the story.
Love, Theoretically is the perfect romance to toss into your beach bag this summer.
Amazon | Audible
Ali Hazelwood is a multi-published author—alas, of peer-reviewed articles about brain science, in which no one makes out and the ever after is not always happy. Originally from Italy, she lived in Germany and Japan before moving to the U.S. to pursue a Ph.D. in neuroscience. She recently became a professor, which absolutely terrifies her. When Ali is not at work, she can be found running, crocheting, eating cake pops, or watching sci-fi movies with her two feline overlords (and her slightly-less-feline husband).
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/06/love-theoretically-by-ali-hazelwood.html
In his remarkable chronicle From the Earth to Mars, Jeffrey Manber delves into the captivating early annals of rocketry and cosmic exploration, shedding light on an era dominated by the inquisitive minds of engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs rather than government entities.
Manber commences this exploration by revisiting Jules Verne’s renowned 1865 novel, From the Earth to the Moon, illuminating its profound influence on the pioneering figures of space exploration such as Herman Oberth, a mentor to Wernher von Braun, and the Russian engineer Valentin Glushko. The novel did not merely fuel their curiosity with thrilling narratives of space exploration; it anchored their inspirations in scientifically credible concepts, as Verne was meticulous in maintaining plausibility throughout his novel.
Evidently, early 20th-century luminaries such as the Russian scholar Konstantin Tsiolkovsky faced the arduous task of advocating the feasibility of space travel. Convincing their contemporaries that this was not just a distant possibility but rather an imminent reality was a challenge that demanded significant effort.
However, where some authors may have turned such a history into a dry academic treatise, Manber skillfully steers clear of this pitfall. Instead of immersing the reader in the complex technicalities of the science, he adeptly presents it in a manner that is accessible to the layperson yet avoids any trace of condescension. The narrative primarily weaves the captivating stories of the personalities involved, all while maintaining the primary focus of the book. The infectious enthusiasm Manber exhibits for his subject resonates strongly, sparking curiosity even in readers previously indifferent to space exploration.
Visually, the book further engages the reader with an array of comic-style pages and substantial illustrations, serving to vividly depict the personalities and machines within the narrative and to enhance the visual appeal. The book itself is an aesthetic triumph, with an eye-catching cover design, carefully curated illustrations, and exquisite typesetting contributing to its physical allure.
All in all, From the Earth to Mars is a commendable offering that extends beyond the interests of space enthusiasts to a wider audience. This engrossing read comes with a high recommendation, sure to captivate and enlighten anyone who delves into its pages.
Pages: 104 | ASIN : B0BV9PZP5Q
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/15/from-the-earth-to-mars-the-surprising-history-of-the-rocket-pioneers-who-launched-humanity-into-space/
Arlin Creed’s riveting novel, Daggers and Daisies, invites readers into a beguiling realm of shifter fantasy, where enigmatic creatures, potent magic, and arduous quests coalesce against the backdrop of a realm in crisis. The narrative unfurls amidst a landscape where decaying magic, natural disasters, and unprecedented mutations are threatening the very essence of life. Despite the looming devastation, the realm’s leadership is entrenched in tradition, fervently resisting the winds of change.
Central to this rich tapestry is Scarlett, a dynamic character consigned to a society that diminishes the role of women to nothing more than servitude and procreation. Nevertheless, her destiny veers off the conventional path when her father daringly appoints her as the heir and impending queen of their kingdom. The real question is, can this young dragon shifter harness this unprecedented opportunity to enact transformational change, or will her narrative prematurely conclude before it truly commences?
Daggers and Daisies ingeniously explores a reality populated by dragon shifters, incessantly entangled in internal strife and territorial disputes with neighboring realms under diverse creature governance. The storyline artfully unifies these disparate elements through the common thread of magic, a powerful force accessible only to a privileged few, with women facing an absolute prohibition. Combining the allure of romance, the intrigue of mystery, and the thrill of action, this narrative has the potential to enthrall fans of “Dungeons and Dragons,” promising a magical journey of escapism.
Creed astutely sets the stage with a cautionary note regarding potential violence and explicit content. However, the novel defies these expectations, offering a more subdued depiction of these elements. The resultant narrative is, therefore, well suited for older teens and young adults in search of a more tempered fantasy experience. Although Daggers and Daisies serves as the initiation of a series, its denouement is somewhat precipitous, igniting an insatiable desire in readers for the narrative to continue. Despite this abrupt conclusion, Daggers and Daisies demonstrates significant potential as a compelling series.
Pages: 236 | ASIN : B0B9M3P9XY
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/15/daggers-and-daisies/
In Making It in Country Music, Rich Redmond invites readers into the intimate realm of his life, offering a compelling narrative of his lifelong affinity for drums. His fascination began in childhood and evolved into a love that shaped not only his character but also his career. This absorbing journey is enhanced by carefully selected photographs interspersed throughout the book, enabling readers to visualize Redmond’s experiences. These images, particularly those from his childhood, offer a glimpse into his past, providing a backdrop for understanding his evolution. Redmond also shares pictures of treasured items like his drums and snapshots taken during performances, adding another dimension of connection for the reader.
Co-authored by Jennifer Della’Zanna, this book ushers readers into the heart of the country music scene, unveiling little-known facts and shedding light on events that typically remain veiled from public view. The narrative unfolds like an engaging storytelling session, filled with amusing anecdotes that chronicle Redmond’s path to success. Della’Zanna’s contributions elevate the writing to a commendable standard, ensuring an immersive reading experience. The book delivers a plethora of captivating stories, offering an inside look at Redmond’s touring experiences, the lighter side of country music, and the harsh realities of the music industry. A heartfelt homage is paid to the friends, family, and professionals who provided guidance and support during Redmond’s journey, underscoring the gratification derived from his musical endeavor.
This book extends beyond a simple memoir or narrative of the country music genre. It also offers valuable insights and lessons for readers and those involved in the country music industry. Redmond and Della’Zanna detail the dynamics of running a band, the thrilling moments, the humorous aspects, and the harsh realities that are often left unspoken. They provide historical perspectives and tales about iconic concerts in country music that will delight historians and music enthusiasts alike.
One of the standout aspects of the book is the imparted advice, suitable for not only musicians and aspirants but also parents fostering their children’s talents. Redmond, who discovered his passion for music at the tender age of eight, credits his parents’ encouragement as a pivotal part of his success. The authors underscore the importance of setting realistic goals while nurturing dreams, advocating for a step-by-step approach toward the pinnacle of ambition.
Making It in Country Music is a cornucopia of engaging narratives, showbiz facts, personal tales, and valuable insights. The book is infused with nuggets of wisdom, such as the impactful quote: “Most successful people achieve their dreams because they never take their eyes off the top of that pyramid.” This serves as a powerful reminder for readers to maintain their focus and tenacity in the face of challenges.
Pages: 224 | ASIN : B0BYRFFCSB
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/15/making-it-in-country-music-an-insiders-look-at-the-industry/
Dyami and the Gobi Crystal follows a junior angel who discovers the people she has been sent to watch are in danger and must decide if she should help them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration was the Book of Enoch with angels called “watchers.” I imagined the watchers would be the scribes for all records. Inspired by the Kabbalah (or Qabalah), I contrasted the angelic and earthly realms. The Dukán represented heaven on earth with no wars, illnesses, or hunger. Their perfect lives also varied little. The Naga was the destabilizing force which introduced dualism and growth.
Dyami’s story is a coming-of-age tale where she has to realize that choices have consequences. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Dyami approached the world from a naïve, angelic perspective. She gave and shared freely with others. She didn’t realize some weighed everything by how much it benefited them.
Dyami knew only gratitude, joy, and celebration before her assignment. She couldn’t remain in that blissful state with her heart bond, the corbatu. To properly document records, she needed to feel others’ fears and pain. She didn’t know how to separate their feelings from her own, and became overwhelmed.
She wanted to prove she could be successful. She was passed over for more active assignments. When she became a watcher, she thought it meant staying quiet and taking notes.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
A healthy culture values diversity and creativity. Everyone suffers if personal appearance, music or self-expression are condemned.
Emotional mastery is a journey. Heal, forgive, then integrate painful experiences to return to a peaceful center.
Some people are parasitic. The analogy of the sucker balls is a warning about those who intentionally drain others.
Life can feel lonely. Often, the way out of depression is asking others for help.
Exchanging rights for safety and necessities affect a race’s freedom. It’s analogous to the frog in a heated pot of water. Most Dukan aren’t aware what is happening, and most who know feel powerless to change it.
What is the next book in the Galactic Guardian series about, and when will it be available?
I am 75% complete with the first draft of Dyami and the Sigil of Power. It will be available mid-2024.
Dyami returns to the magical world of Assiya as she strives to become a powerful guardian. Armed with the sorcerer’s staff, Dyami must fight the menacing Samael before she graduates from the Guardian Academy. A hundred years have passed, and the king and queen have become much more controlling. Dyami helps four volunteers who must awaken from the forgetting fog and discover their life’s purpose. With the aid of a wise sorcerer, Dyami unknowingly summons the sigil of power. But will it be enough to protect the volunteers from the King and Queen’s insatiable thirst for power and defeat her greatest foe? The people’s fate is in her hands. This is a story about the many faces of power.
Author Links: Twitter | Facebook | Website | Book Landing
Dyami is a junior angel, assigned to a planet as watcher where magical beings teach the gentle Dukán fantastic abilities. Like a reporter, she must document events onto her gobi crystal to save them for eternity. She wants to be the perfect watcher, which means not interfering in mortal lives. Her specialty is time travel, which is as easy as breathing.
Her mentor is a shape-shifting dragon. In her travels, she angers a grumpy sorcerer and makes friends with a quirky fairy.
She falls in love with the Dukán who can dance mid-air or grow ripe strawberries in seconds. However, their perfect lives are boring as every day is the same. A visiting king and queen promise them excitement and change if together they build a new domain. As Dyami feared, the royals soon make the Dukán slaves.
Dyami’s heart breaks seeing her new friends suffer, while foreign emotions like fear and anger overwhelm her. If she interferes, she risks being punished and banished from the angelic realm.
This fast-paced adventure uses allegory and fantasy to discuss duality, the Tree of Life, and viewing outside time. It’s perfect for those who enjoyed children’s classics like The Chronicles of Narnia or A Wrinkle in Time.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/15/emotional-mastery-is-a-journey/
The Best Summer Guest follows a nervous little boy who spends the summer with his grandmother at the lake cottage. What was the inspiration for your story?
Most small children have difficulties staying overnight in a strange place without their parents. Especially the first times can be difficult. The children lack their own bed, toys, familiar routines, and perhaps evening fairy tales and songs.
Even if the destination is familiar and dear people live there, the situation can be strange and uncomfortable. The child would like to succeed as an overnight guest, but many things may bother the mind. Dare I sleep alone? What if I don’t fall asleep quickly? Is the room too dark? Dare I reveal that I’m scared? How to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night? Maybe I’m having a nightmare!
When I was little, I found it challenging to be away from home at night without my family. No other place offered the same security as having my family members around. And my vivid imagination made everything even more difficult. But it was fine with me if the whole family went on a trip, for example, to visit relatives. Sleeping at my cousins’ house or in the attic of my grandparents’ farmhouse was just fun. Sleeping in a crowded tent with my sisters was suitably exciting when our family drove around Eastern Finland and spent the nights in campsites.
After some time, I became an eager camper and independent traveler. I just needed to get used to being alone from home overnight – and to learn that at my own pace.
Is there anything about Grandma Gladys that came from yourself or your life experiences?
The Best Summer Guest is more or less a true story. If you had known my beloved mother-in-law – the grandmother of my three children – you would understand who the true hero of this book is. Grandma’s summer days with little guest Jonty combine the experiences of many children from our close circle. These siblings and cousins have spent their summers in an environment we all love.
The description of the summer cottage, the farmhouse next door, and the small village shop nearby are also quite authentic. Even many small details are extracted from that environment and its people. They will recognize themselves in the story, I’m sure!
How Granny is present in Jonty’s life is especially important for the entire story. Her warm and gentle behavior and attitude towards the child are unhurried and genuine. In such an environment, the child feels comfortable and safe.
The Granny in the book and myself have many things in common. I share the idea of simple summer fun, where nature plays an important role. Listening to the children and putting yourself in their position also helps to understand and handle even difficult situations with kindness.
How did you decide on the title of this children’s book?
The book’s title, The Best Summer Guest, emphasizes what all children should feel; that they are good and accepted just as they are. They are surrounded by safe, friendly adults who welcome them and enjoy being together.
While writing this, I also started thinking about my late father, who always treated me with special warmth. Even at a very young age, I felt I was an important person, even unique and equal somehow. I had my voice heard, and my needs were taken into account. In his last words to me, he said that I have always been important to him. It is one of the best gifts and heirlooms a child can receive. Having the confidence that you are important and loved makes it easier to go on alone when the time comes.
In the title of this book, it feels good to declare that Jonty in the story is the BEST in something – at least as a summer guest at Granny’s summer cottage.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from The Best Summer Guest?
I have already described many essential themes of this book above. Such as respecting the children as individuals, considering their needs, and spending time with them without any rush – just calmly being present. A sense of security and strong self-esteem grow in such an atmosphere.
Finally, I would like to emphasize the value of the chain formed by generations. I often deal with this central issue in different ways in many of my books – also in this one. To understand oneself as an individual, it is helpful that people can get information about their roots and find their place in the continuum formed by their family and relatives.
Cooperation and good relations between different generations are assets for all parties involved. In this chain, irreplaceable information and experience of being human flow. By participating in each other’s lives, family members of different ages can share the same warmth and feel needed and valued.
I have heard good feedback from readers of many ages about the messages in this book. Some people start reminiscing about their childhood and their relatives. Many memories come to their mind; sometimes those memories make them laugh, but sometimes their eyes are filled with tears.
All in all, modest and small things can turn out to be the most essential when looking back on one’s life. Peaceful moments together with my grandparents were a treasure for me, and they fed my story-hungry mind and encouraged me later as a writer.
In a fast-changing world, we need things that don’t change or at least change slowly. They increase the feeling of security and give us time to adapt to the pressures caused by the outside world. At their best, grandparents can help the next generation grow in many ways. In addition to very concrete help, it can be about spiritual connection and cultural heritage. The importance of these things will be noticed later, at the latest, when the moments together have already passed.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/15/calmly-being-present/
Best mysteries and thrillers of June, chosen by the Amazon Editors.
Original source: https://www.amazon.com/amazonbookreview/editorspicks.html%3Ftheme=light?ref_=abr_widget_nav&theme=light
The best memoirs and biographies of the month, as chosen by Amazon Editors
Original source: https://www.amazon.com/amazonbookreview/read/B0C794YDYP?ref_=abr_widget_nav&theme=light
The best memoirs and biographies of the month, as chosen by Amazon Editors
Original source: https://www.amazon.com/amazonbookreview/editorspicks.html%3Ftheme=light?ref_=abr_widget_nav&theme=light