In his indictment of Donald Trump for conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election, the special counsel Jack Smith makes a glancing reference to the Gettysburg Address. It is not, however, the one delivered by Abraham Lincoln on the Pennsylvania battlefield in 1863. Smith cites, rather, a public event in the ballroom […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/08/04/invasion-of-the-democracy-snatchers-trump-indictment/

I am continuing my listen of the October Daye series. Today I am sharing my thoughts on The Winter Long by Seanan McGuire. Whew! This series is addictive and the blurb may be short, but we soon learn everything we thought we knew about Toby was wrong. You’ll want to make time to listen because you won’t want to set it down.

The Winter Long
by Seanan McGuire
Series: October Daye #8
Narrator: Mary Robinette Kowal
Length: 11 hours and 57 minutes
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Source: Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x

Toby thought she understood her own past; she thought she knew the score.

She was wrong.

It’s time to learn the truth.

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Toby cannot catch a break, and honestly, it isn’t her fault. Things happen. Bad things and well. You’ll just need to listen to find out. It is getting harder to keep things spoiler free, so if you haven’t listened to the previous books, it might me best to begin and then come read my thoughts.

The entire series to this point has been building towards this moment. There are so many revelations. It’s filled with betrayal, reveals, secrets, near-death experiences and jaw dropping moments. It seems some around Toby could not share certain things with her, EVEN when they wanted to. This includes those in her inner circle.

We’ve got a mystery and the fae who turned Toby into a fish is back. Only it turns out he did what he did for a reason…..ah! Parental trouble, death, not dead…it was nerve-wracking and positively twisted. Have I mentioned I am loving this series?

I love Toby, and she continues to grow, as does her blood magic. The world-building, characters and fae world are brilliant. If you haven’t begun this series, you need to dive in. This is urban fantasy at its best. Ok, enough fangirling.

Mary Robinette Kowal continues to narrate the series and does so brilliantly. Each character has a unique voice. She consistently maintains them throughout the series. Her tone and pacing enhance McGuire’s storytelling, bringing the world and characters to life.

There are currently sixteen books in the series and oodles of novellas. In October 2023, two more books will release. One from Toby’s perspective and one from Tybalt’s! I am currently on the twelfth audiobook.

Amazon | Audible

Reading this book contributed to these challenges:

• 2023 Audiobook Challenge

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/08/the-winter-long-by-seanan-mcguire.html

Young children need encouragement through every stage of their development. From learning to crawl and walk to taking risks when it comes to making new friends, they need our support as they learn that mistakes are a part of learning. Trying their best and refusing to give up when things get too tough doesn’t always come naturally. Were it not for the encouragement and positive influence of others, children would learn that giving up feels like a better alternative than pushing through the struggle. Author Maria Cedolini Thompson offers children insight into some of life’s first true dilemmas.

Anything is Popsicle, Messages of Perseverance, written by Maria Cedolini Thompson and illustrated by Daria Shamolina, uses visually stunning images coupled with rhyming stanzas throughout to communicate a very important message to young readers. Thompson does a wonderful job of reaching out to children in lower elementary grades and encouraging them to persevere regardless of their trials.

From taking on the challenges found in the classroom to being faced with naysayers who question their choice of clothing, young readers will find comfort in Thompson’s verse. By reiterating that mistakes are, indeed, gifts, the author proves a point that many elementary students often do not see on their own–our mistakes are opportunities to learn and to grow. This book is a real asset to elementary teachers and guidance counselors.

Anything is Popsicle, Messages of Perseverance, written by Maria Cedolini Thompson and illustrated by Daria Shamolina, is a fantastic book children’s book that I highly recommend. Thompson and Shamolina have teamed up to create a beautifully constructed piece of art that carries an even more beautiful message for the youngest of readers.

Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0C47NHR3W

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/04/anything-is-popsicle-messages-of-perseverance/

Jigsaw by Kez Wickham St George is an engrossing and emotionally charged narrative that delves into the deeply concealed world of parental childhood trauma. At the heart of this tale is Cassie, the protagonist, who endures a life riddled with abuse and neglect within the confines of her family home, desperately yearning for love and acceptance. Compelled into a marriage with a narcissistic alcoholic as a result of her family’s cult-like obligations, Cassie is faced with the bleak choice of either succumbing to despair or embarking on a courageous journey to discover her true self.

Throughout the narrative, the author skillfully weaves themes of escape, love, resilience, and the patriarchal system’s cruel oppression while exploring the enigmatic paranormal aspects that entwine themselves in Cassie’s life. Jigsaw is a poignant and gripping masterpiece, adeptly unraveling the profound and lasting impact of childhood trauma on the protagonist, Cassie. With great sensitivity, the author navigates through Cassie’s harrowing experiences, revealing her struggles and inner strength in a deeply moving manner that resonates with readers on a profound emotional level.

The story delves into the intricate complexities of familial relationships, the enduring consequences of abuse, and the societal pressures that ensnare victims within their suffering. The incorporation of paranormal elements adds an intriguing and enchanting layer to the plot, skillfully intermingling with the profound emotional journey of the story. Cassie’s unwavering resilience and determination to liberate herself from the clutches of her past exemplify her transformation into a formidable and empowered woman.

The storytelling is nothing short of captivating, and the characters are rendered with remarkable depth, making them relatable and genuine. Through vividly painted scenes and skillful prose, the author effortlessly evokes powerful emotions, effortlessly keeping readers enthralled from start to finish.

Beneath the surface of this enthralling tale lies a profound message of self-discovery and empowerment, which leaves a lasting impact on the reader. Jigsaw serves as a thought-provoking and evocative testament to the concealed struggles many individuals endure behind closed doors. It serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of compassion, understanding, and support for those who have faced childhood traumas.

This unique blend of personal growth, paranormal intrigue, and societal critique renders Jigsaw an unforgettable reading experience that compels readers to reevaluate their perspectives on life and the struggles others face.

Pages: 389 | ASIN : B0C6V4983M

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/04/jigsaw/

The Literary Titan Book Awards are awarded to books that have astounded and amazed us with unique writing styles, vivid worlds, complex characters, and original ideas. These books deserve extraordinary praise, and we are proud to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and writing talent of these brilliant authors.

Award Recipients

The Die Game by Stephen A. Carter

Tales of Wonder by Kenneth Hawk

Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/04/literary-titan-book-awards-august-2023/

The Literary Titan Book Awards are granted to children’s books that have enchanted and delighted us with their distinctive storytelling, vibrant illustrations, engaging characters, or innovative concepts. These books merit extraordinary recognition, and we are thrilled to applaud the tireless efforts, commitment, and creative talent of these exceptional authors.

Award Recipients

Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/04/literary-titan-book-award-august-2023/

The Literary Titan Book Awards are awarded to books that have astounded and amazed us with unique writing styles, vivid worlds, complex characters, and original ideas. These books deserve extraordinary praise, and we are proud to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and writing talent of these brilliant authors.

Award Recipients

Rito de iniciación by Diego Uribe

A Time To Grow by Lowell Duane Pabst

Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/04/literary-titan-book-award-august-2023-2/