The House on Prytania by Karen White is the second novel in the Royal Street series. Set in New Orleans, it offers a paranormal story filled with mystery, ghostly encounters and more.

The House on Prytania
by Karen White
Series: Royal Street #2
Genres: Paranormal
Source: Library
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:

A woman is haunted–both literally and figuratively–by ghosts of the past in this second novel of the Royal Street series by New York Times bestselling author Karen White.

Nola Trenholm may not be psychic herself, but she’s spent enough time around people who are to know when ghosts are present, and there are definitely a few lingering spirits in her recently purchased Creole cottage in New Orleans. Something, or someone, is keeping them tethered to this world. And not all of them are benign.

But with the sudden return of Sunny Ryan, Beau Ryan’s long-lost sister, Nola has plenty to distract her from her ghostly housemates. Especially when the tempting–yet firmly unavailable–Beau, wanting to mete out justice to those he blames for Sunny’s kidnapping, asks Nola for a favor that threatens to derail her hard-won recovery and send her hurtling backward. He asks her to welcome Michael Hebert back into her life, even though Michael is the reason for Nola’s bruised heart. Beau is convinced that Michael’s powerful family was behind Sunny’s disappearance and that Michael is the key to getting information the police won’t be able to ignore–if Nola is willing to risk everything for which she’s worked so hard.

Torn between helping Beau and protecting herself, Nola doesn’t realize until it’s almost too late why the ghosts are haunting her house–a startling revelation that will throw her and Beau together to fight a common enemy. Assuming Nola can get Beau to listen to what the spirits are trying to tell him, because ignoring them could prove to be a fatal mistake…

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The books in the Royal Street series are best read in the order of release. The mysteries wrap up, but there is an overall story arc. I tried to avoid spoilers for the first book, The Shop on Royal Street.

Nola is still renovating her Creole Cottage and despite the events in The Shop on Royal Street, she isn’t ghost free. While Nola herself isn’t psychic, she grew up around those who can hear & see the dead. She can sense ghosts, see traces of them, and even smell cigar smoke. Apparently the ghosts are trying to send a message warning Beau, but he isn’t listening.

Nola has feelings for Beau, but he isn’t available. There is something there and I keep waiting for something to develop. They are friends and he is managing her renovations. He can communicate with ghosts. However, he is ignoring them, and even fears them. The ghosts are making themselves known to Nola and family members. Beau still wants justice for what happened to his sister and his girlfriend enlists Nola’s help.

From guests of Michael Herbert and his parents to taking graveyard tours, this tale had it all. Nola’s parents come to visit and have a surprise visitor with them. The story has a small-town vibe to it and I enjoyed mingling with Nola’s friends and family.

The story that unfolds was delightful with some ghostly suspense and twists. I figured some things out early on and felt like the author kept hitting me over the head with it. I loved Nola’s meddling parents, her sister and, of course, her best friend and roommate. The foodie talk had me drooling.

The characters pull you in just as much as the mystery. White brings New Orleans and its history to life from Jackson Square to shotgun houses.

Amazon | Audible

The House on Prytania by Karen White delivers mystery, suspense and paranormal flair against family, friends and New Orleans. #LibraryLove #bookreview
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/08/the-house-on-prytania-by-karen-white.html

Upon first glance, Emma Harper may seem to be an ordinary high school sophomore navigating the mundane complexities of her everyday life. However, her world dramatically shifts when she experiences sudden blindness, instigating a fearful anticipation that her life may have irrevocably changed. When her sight returns, Emma’s perception is altered, and she finds herself unsure of the new reality her vision presents. This ignites an intriguing question – what new challenges will Emma have to confront daily?

In Opened, S.T. Sanchez crafts an extraordinary narrative that bridges the gap between our human realm and the ethereal Fey world. The author exhibits a unique character-building talent, sculpting personalities from both universes with such veracity that they spring to life in the reader’s imagination. The vivid, multifaceted portrayal of these characters and the worlds they inhabit is nothing short of magical. The Fey world, in particular, was so authentically depicted that I found myself thoroughly immersed, experiencing its mystical allure firsthand. It was as though this world transcended fiction and gained an existence of its own.

The dynamic between Emma and Dante, our protagonists, was captivating. Despite the chasm of difference that separates their respective worlds, there was an underlying hope that their paths would converge in a meaningful way. Their journey, filled with unexpected twists and high-stakes crises, had me engrossed, my heart pounding in sync with the escalating tension in the plot. Throughout the narrative, I found myself rooting for Emma and Dante, hoping they could navigate their conflicts and potentially realize the profound bond developing between them.

From its compelling world-building to its intricate characters and engaging plot, Opened secured my interest from the outset and kept me hooked until the very last page. While it is perfectly suited for preteen and teenage readers, it also extends an invitation to adult readers. As an adult reviewer, I can attest to the novel’s broad appeal and thoroughly enjoyed this standalone story from S.T. Sanchez.

Pages: 285 | ASIN : B0C3FVD944

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/03/opened/

The Story of Evil, invites readers into the complex and beautifully wrought world of Element. Here, danger extends beyond monstrous threats, targeting the very heart of Celestial, its vibrant capital city. Three young protagonists valiantly step up to this challenging frontier, and their personal battles ignite the story with heart-stopping action and depth of character that will leave you wanting more.

At the heart of this epic are three remarkable figures: Steven Brightflame, a knight-in-training marked by familial tragedy; Kari Quinn, a halfling archer with an insatiable wanderlust; and Tyrus Canard, an enigmatic warrior navigating the perils of self-discovery amidst the unforgiving world. Each of their journeys is finely sketched, providing readers with a spectrum of emotions to explore.

“Heroes of the Siege” is a must-read for aficionados of high fantasy, resonating with the world-building prowess found in renowned sagas like “Game of Thrones,” “Mistborn,” and “The Witcher.” Johnson’s Element is a world richly embroidered with intrigue, dichotomies of light and dark gods, and a magic system that is as enthralling as it is enigmatic. Its pantheon of creatures, from elves and halflings to original monstrous creations, makes for a thrilling array of encounters throughout the narrative.

But what sets “Heroes of the Siege” apart, even within its genre, are the unexpected plot twists that Johnson weaves into the story. These moments of surprising ingenuity ensure that the book leaves an indelible impression, holding its own distinctive place within the reader’s memory.

Johnson’s vivid storytelling effectively carries the narrative, although there is potential for further embellishment in the portrayal of settings and characters. At times, his style harks back to traditional fantasy norms, leaving room for him to further refine his unique literary voice.

The Story of Evil series is an engaging and gratifying journey for any fantasy enthusiast. Personally, my immersion in these books led to a profound connection with the cast of characters that continues to resonate long after the final page has been turned. The allure of Element, its heroes, and their stories will pull you in, leaving you eagerly anticipating the next volume in this immersive saga.

Pages: 1564 | ASIN : B0C4FFXS7P

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/03/the-story-of-evil-an-epic-fantasy-saga/

Len McBride’s America’s Harvest takes readers on an exhilarating journey, immersing them in the life of Lane Kornegay, a dedicated worker at the esteemed Farm Service Agency (FSA). Amidst his routine of measuring grain bins and calculating loans, Lane’s world is abruptly disrupted when he encounters two enigmatic individuals, claiming to be part of a terrorist organization seeking his recruitment for a perilous mission. The stakes soar as terrorists menace the lives of American citizens, compelling Lane to confront an agonizing choice between his loyalty to the nation and his deep-seated affection for his loved ones.

From the outset, the novel engulfs readers in a whirlwind of suspense, enthralling them with a riveting and fast-paced storyline. Len McBride’s intimate familiarity with the workings of the FSA infuses the narrative with remarkable authenticity, ensuring an immensely gratifying reading experience.

The initial chapters captivate with engaging dialogue and a composed, astute portrayal of Lane, who emerges as a mature, introspective protagonist. As the narrative gracefully navigates the intricacies of life, Lane confronts a myriad of challenges, grappling with the complex web of allegiances to his country and the cherished community he holds dear. McBride’s deft character development invites readers to empathize with Lane’s inner struggles and consequential choices, forging an emotional connection that resonates long after the last page is turned.

At its core, America’s Harvest transcends its premise of food supply safety, plumbing the depths of human nature and the transformative power of individual actions. The novel delves into themes that strike a universal chord, leaving readers enthralled by the thought-provoking exploration of morality and personal agency.

America’s Harvest is a captivating and unforgettable novel. Len McBride’s artistry shines through the pages, infusing the narrative with depth and emotional resonance. Engaging and evocative, this book sends readers on a compelling voyage that lingers in the heart and mind long after the final sentence.

Pages: 405 | ASIN : B0C3PXTYV1

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/03/americas-harvest/

Ranbir follows a 7-year-old boy who takes a challenge to fold the state of Nebraska 50 times and winds up on an adventure learning higher mathematics.  What was the inspiration for the original and fascinating idea at the center of the book?

It all goes back to my fascination with the scale on a slide rule.  I’d never been taught how to use one — how is it possible to make such complicated calculations just by sliding two sticks together?  When Buck imagines the state of Nebraska as one huge sheet of 20# copy paper, the principle of doubling what was doubled before begins to take shape in his mind. The slide rule follows the same idea, except each doubling gets squished into the same space as the previous one.

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

That kids can be introduced to mathematical concepts well above their grade level using very simple imagery.  And keep it outrageously funny to make it easier to remember. 

This book is really intended not for kids, but for adult teachers and educators who can interactively communicate these ideas to their students.

What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?

I wanted to maintain the exuberance and innocence of a seven-year-old as he navigates a world of ideas, catch-phrases, expectations, and challenges.  From “I can’t do this, this is way beyond me” (I’m just a little kid!) to “Huh!  I just learned something.  I just did something!”

What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?

I do not have another book in mind at this time.  However, Atmosphere Press is helping me set up a website, ranbirsliderule.com.  I hope this might serve as a base to inspire fresh ideas for introducing math —  perhaps other STEM subjects as well — to young kids (and curious adults) on a count-on-your-fingers level.

Author Links: GoodReads | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/03/i-want-to-inspire-kids/

The Movie Chair follows an enchanted theater seat that loves providing for children however they need while they are in the theater. What was the inspiration for your story?

As a child, my mother took my brother, myself, and neighborhood kids to the movies a lot as our form of cinema therapy. My mother had also written a few unpublished children’s stories for her grandchildren. I wanted to get back into my creative spirit again since I was a semi-retired art therapist.

My creative background consists of: painting, writing, creating a series of children’s meditation CDs, and producing youtube educational art and cooking videos. After my mother passed, I found a story she tried to write, incorporating a loving movie chair, but it was very politically incorrect. LOL. I decided to reconstruct it by combining it with my guided imagery meditation stories that I wrote for children. This is how “The Story Room”, “The Movie Chair,” and its sequel, “The Magic Movie Chair Adventures,” were created. In this book, The Movie Chair flies out the window with the children and their pet bird, “Sneaky Tweets.” to experience amazing new adventures.

What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your character of the chair?

I feel that the story is based on Karma, that what you put out comes back to you eventually. And It’s a story about having Faith, everything works itself out, and miracles happen.

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

Encouraging young children to explore their creativity and use their imaginations instead of playing video games. In some ways, just bringing back simple family values.

What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?

The Magic Movie Chair Adventures

Once I find an established publisher, I’ll move forward with publishing the book. I am also looking into an animation series too.

Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/03/having-faith/