To the Editors: In her review of Martin J. Siegel’s Judgment and Mercy [NYR, June 22], an excellent biography of Judge Irving Kaufman, Linda Greenhouse writes, “Kaufman’s special relationship with The New York Times…bears directly on the question of his post-Rosenbergs transformation.” He continually sought “an establishment stamp of approval,” so that his obituary and […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/09/21/judge-kaufman-the-times-the-aclu/

To the Editors: In “The Millions We Failed to Save” [NYR, June 22], Ruth Franklin’s otherwise excellent review of the documentary The US and the Holocaust, the author neglected to mention the American government’s official response to the Holocaust: the War Refugee Board (WRB). Following public pressure and urging from parts of his administration, Roosevelt […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/09/21/the-few-who-made-it/

I don’t remember much about our day at Stowe, whether it was rainy or dry, where we parked, what the road from Oxford was like. The house was closed, that much I know, but we’d come for the gardens, and today a few keystrokes give me some images I recognize: a footbridge we crossed, a […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/09/21/playing-with-the-past-the-fraud-zadie-smith/

In 2003 Indian archaeologists working on a remote hilltop in the southern state of Telangana uncovered a remarkable early Buddhist monastic complex. Phanigiri, “the snake-hooded hill,” had clearly been one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in India. All around were found spectacular fragments of sculpture, including substantial sections of elaborately carved ceremonial gateways and […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/09/21/vibrant-cacophonous-buddhism-tree-and-serpent/

Aside from the fact that they’re all dead, the women of Surrealism have had a banner couple of years. In 2021 Leonora Carrington’s novel The Hearing Trumpet was reissued by New York Review Books, while her designs for a tarot deck were published in not one but two handsome volumes. In 2022 Meret Oppenheim’s work […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/09/21/poems-to-wake-the-corpses-joyce-mansour/

Black Soul, White Heart is a novella in the Black Hat Bureau urban fantasy series by Hailey Edwards. it shares the story of how Rue’s parents met and married. It was fun getting their story and fans who were curious about the union of a white and black witch will enjoy their story.

Black Soul, White Heart
by Hailey Edwards
Series: Black Hat Bureau #3.5
Narrator: Stephanie Richardson
Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 4.5 cups Speed: 1.5x

Vonda Winterbourne is, sadly, a lady. Much to her regret. And her parents expect her to act like one. That includes marrying a nice white witch who can provide her safety, companionship, and all the comforts one could desire in their gilded cage.

Hiram Nádasdy is no gentleman. He’s a black witch with a reputation that strikes terror in the hearts of his enemies. But not in the girl. No, the girl is fearless, reckless, and determined to know him. He ought to reveal the darkness lurking in his heart and scare her away before it’s too late, but he’s curious about her as well. And, frankly, he’s not sure it would work.

Black witches don’t befriend white witches, and white witches don’t fall in love with black witches. They certainly don’t marry them.

Or do they?

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Rue’s parents have always seemed like opposites. Vonda Winterbourne is a lady from a white witch family and Rue’s father, Hiram Nádasdy, a black witch, has quite the ruthless reputation. So how did these two end up together? If you have read the series, then you know, black witches eat white witches hearts. Eep.

Narrated by Stephanie Richardson, Edwards pulled me into the story and I quickly devoured this in one sitting. Hiram is smitten with Vonny “Vonda Winterbourne” but knows his father will never approve. I adored Vonny, and she is the reason the two get together. Hiram never stood a chance.

I am glad Edwards gave us their story. Fans of the series will appreciate the context it gives to Black Wings, Grey Skies, the fourth novel.

Despite its length, the author gave us a full story with swoons, banter and understanding. I love the Black Hearts Bureau series and highly recommend listening to them.

Amazon * | Audible

*kindleunlimited

Black Soul, White Heart by Hailey Edwards shares the story of Rue's parents and is not to be missed. #audiobook #Novella #StephanieRichardson #audiobookreview
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/09/black-soul-white-heart-by-hailey-edwards.html

Painting Stars, by Bea Teal, is a compelling novel that gracefully explores the multifaceted life of its protagonist, Robin. Raised amidst adversity and trained as a thief by her family, Robin’s early life is anything but ordinary. Her connection with Sebastian and his mother, whose household Robin’s family serves, becomes a beacon of hope in her otherwise chaotic world.

Sebastian’s role in Robin’s life is almost paternal, and his trust is invaluable to her. When a moral dilemma challenges Robin’s loyalty, she chooses honesty over deceit, leading to a critical turning point in her life. Her family’s subsequent relocation to Michigan marks the beginning of a new chapter, wherein Robin continues to work with Sebastian and carves out a fulfilling existence. An unexpected return to her past unravels fresh responsibilities and rekindles old passions, adding layers to an already rich narrative.

Painting Stars is more than just an engaging summer read; it’s an immersive experience. Bea Teal sketches Robin’s character, allowing readers to understand her motivations and appreciate her evolution. Her past is not merely a backdrop but a critical component to comprehending her present and the twists her life’s journey takes.

Robin’s character radiates authenticity. Her attitude and dialogue offer a window into her soul, reflecting her resilience and complexity. The narrative does not shy away from heavy subjects, such as the death of Robin’s sister, yet balances these with heartwarming moments that infuse the novel with warmth.

Thematic elements like found family and second chance romance are woven into the story, enriching the reader’s engagement. The pacing is particularly noteworthy, maintaining attention through careful interplay between past and present events.

Painting Stars extends an invitation to feel and connect with the narrative on a deeper level, achieving an emotional resonance that stays with the reader. Robin’s perspective is intriguing and engaging, contributing to an overall reading experience that is as enjoyable as it is thought-provoking.

Pages: 247 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BY5PDJK6

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/04/painting-stars/

Rise of Dresca offers readers an exhilarating journey through a daring fantasy realm not intended for the timid. From the very outset of the novel, readers find themselves plunged into a rich and thrilling narrative brimming with action and intrigue. Author Tim McKay sets the stage with a disclaimer, a clear signal preparing you for an extraordinary adventure.

Unlike many traditional novels that begin with detailed introductions to the characters and setting, Rise of Dresca thrusts the reader immediately into its riveting tale. This unique approach introduces a layer of mystery that adds to the excitement and challenges readers to unravel the plot as they are simultaneously immersed in it.

While the story is marked by immediate and intense action, McKay skillfully weaves essential details into the fabric of the tale. The vivid descriptions create clear mental imagery, enhancing retention and continually sparking interest. The well-choreographed ebb and flow of events are handled precisely, ensuring that the narrative is consistent and free from confusion.

One of the book’s highlights includes the author’s audacious narrative choices, such as the unconventional ending that subverts typical literary archetypes. Further depth is added through the exploration of weighty political themes like corruption, intricately interwoven with the unfolding events. What initially appears as clear-cut characterization eventually reveals itself as a complex interplay, leading readers on an enticing path of doubt and speculation about who to trust.

Rise of Dresca is a relentless and gripping tale that seizes your attention and refuses to relinquish it. It’s a call to abandon caution and fully embrace fantasy’s untamed and dark facets. The direct and, at times, coarse narrative may not be to everyone’s taste. But this novel will likely prove to be an essential read for those drawn to intense combat, unyielding characters who never falter, and a touch of dark fantasy.

Pages: 242 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CFCTC1ZT

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/04/rise-of-dresca/

In The Jediran Quest, by Cal Davis, readers are invited to journey alongside the vivacious pre-teens of planet Jedira. Braven, from the Delta Colony, eagerly anticipates his school’s customary trip to the mysterious Towers, especially since his mother, the colony’s chief botanist, is slated to join him. However, a twist of fate prevents her from making the trip. Upon their arrival at the Towers, Braven and his peers are confronted with a perilous situation, testing their wits, bravery, and camaraderie.

At first glance, The Jediran Quest is a stellar sci-fi novel, brimming with explorations of diverse worlds and novel planets. However, it unfurls to reveal much more. It is an intriguing tale of survival that exhibits the strength of teamwork and the essence of genuine friendship. It is a narrative so captivating it resonates with both young readers and adults alike.

Davis paces the story well, allowing readers to delve deep into the characters and understand their nuances and complexities. The world-building is immaculate, enveloping readers in the mesmerizing realm of Jedira. Through Davis’s storytelling, one is not merely reading but experiencing the characters’ trials, tribulations, and triumphs. The narrative poses a daunting question: In the face of peril, who do we truly become, and who can we count on?

I felt that some segments felt a bit abrupt and could have benefitted from further expansion. I believe additional pages might have been the charm, but this minor shortfall doesn’t overshadow the reader’s ability to thoroughly enjoy the novel.

Rich with emotion, from moments of sheer joy to heart-tugging sadness, The Jediran Quest is an enthralling blend of storytelling. Highly recommended for those seeking a tale that intertwines adventure with deep emotional resonance.

Pages: 166 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0B2TSN1CQ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/04/the-jediran-quest-2/

Set against the vibrant backdrop of the 1960s in Malaya, now known as peninsular Malaysia, Finding Miss Fong is the journey of Jim Wolter, a character pulsating with life-changing aspirations and determination.

The novel begins with Wolter abandoning medical school and the insistent matrimonial arrangements by his mother, who wishes for him to marry Lolly. Instead, Wolter’s soul yearns for an adventure that promises to be fulfilling, a journey where he can make a tangible impact by teaching biology in the remote areas of Malaya. However, his high expectations are met with a harsh reality. Wolter’s noble pursuit is thwarted by his unscrupulous boss, pushing him to the brink of despair and driving him to contemplate a return to Chicago.

But Malaya has other plans for Wolter. Enter Miss Fong Moke Chee, a figure who becomes a catalyst in Wolter’s life, inspiring him to embrace the challenges and discover love amidst his trials.

Finding Miss Fong is not merely a love story. It is a multidimensional narrative exploring a young American’s passion for teaching biology, all while achieving a balance between an oppressive work environment and a burgeoning love affair that tests his mettle. The author’s storytelling prowess shines throughout the book, enveloping the reader in the world of the characters, making one feel as though they are a confidante of Wolter’s.

One of the novel’s crowning achievements is its fluid narration, which escorts the reader through varying incidents from Wolter’s perspective. This narrative choice enhances the reader’s engagement and comprehension of the story. Moreover, the author vividly depicts the Malayan setting, immersing Wolter and, by extension, the reader, in the local culture through casual dates with Miss Fong, luncheons and teatime with the local aunties, and even spine-chilling ghost stories.

Finding Miss Fong is as much about the exploration of young love and its accompanying hardships as it is about the thrill of adventure and the richness of emotional bonding. The protagonist’s relationship with Moke Chee becomes a beacon of joy in a place that otherwise fails to recognize his commitment and sacrifices. His love for her leads him down a path filled with challenges, and yet the novel’s conclusion underscores that the essence of the novel, and Wolter’s journey, are both well worth the reader’s investment.

Eloquent and deeply moving, Finding Miss Fong is a poignant tale that resonates with both the heart and mind. Its textured characters and atmospheric storytelling make it a compelling read, painting a vivid picture of love, ambition, and resilience in a time and place that come alive within its pages.

Pages: 382 | ISBN : 978-1639889730

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/04/finding-miss-fong/