The most hypnotic piece of music released so far in 2023 was recorded forty-seven years ago in a barely adequate studio in Rockland County, New York. Somewhere between minimalist meditation and impassioned slow jam, “Harvest Time” features a tenor saxophonist improvising over a spare, minor-key theme, drifting in and out against a backdrop of electric […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/09/19/feel-ins-know-ins-be-ins-pharoah-sanders/

Bazaar Girls by Kerrigan Byrne & Cynthia St. Aubin is the third RomCom novel in the Townsend Harbor series. This quirky little town has been a joy to visit. This time around, we get Gemma McKendrick’s story and romance with Gabe Kelly. Both have baggage or issues to overcome and I hope you fall in love with them, too.

Bazaar Girls
by Kerrigan Byrne, Cynthia St. Aubin
Series: Townsend Harbor #3
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Source: Author
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate

Rating:
Heat Level:

From USA Today and Amazon Charts bestselling authors Kerrigan Byrne and Cynthia St. Aubin, comes their latest Romcom featuring a quirky cast of characters who represent the hilarious absurdity of life while making you fall head-over-heels in love. This steamy, laugh out loud, opposites-attract small town romance reminds us that we don’t have to be perfect to deserve our own happily ever after!

Gemini “Gemma” McKendrick knows just about everything about everybody in Townsend Harbor. When she’s not serving on one of the many civic positions or leaping headlong into another hobby, she’s hosting the Sunday Stitch ‘N Bitch at her yarn and craft shop, Bazaar Girls. With her quirky boutique in big financial trouble, she makes a snap decision to rent out the basement of her cozy craftsman to Townsend Harbor newcomer Gabe Kelly. A man with a past as colorful as his tattoo sleeves, who has become an urban legend since he blew into town. And who better than Gemma, Townsend Harbor’s own gossip guru, to answer the rumor mill’s most pressing questions? Like whether the silver-tongued mechanic is as good with his hands as he is with a socket wrench.

Gabriel “Gabe” Kelly wasn’t born into a family so much as a criminal enterprise. Taught to lift, chop, and rebuild cars since before he could tie his own shoes, he’s obliged to pay his debt to society before deserting South Boston for Townsend Harbor, Washington. Surely he can stay out of trouble here, right? He immediately finds the only position an ex-con with prison muscles and neck tattoos could easily find in a town like this, and buys the vintage car mechanic shop from it’s retiring owner . Moonlighting as the only tow truck in a thirty-mile radius, he rescues the absent-minded hottie who runs the local yarn shop. But he quickly discovers that a toy-sized car with a dashboard lit up by Christmas isn’t the only thing in Gemma McKendrick’s life desperately in need of maintenance. Gabe, who is uniquely qualified to diagnose and fix complicated mechanisms, finds his sexy landlord is impossible to figure out. Looks like he’ll have to take a peek at her undercarriage to find out what makes her purr before he hits the road again.
Because women of her caliber don’t take home guys with his make and model…

But he knows she wants a test drive.

{
“@context”:”https://schema.org”,
“@type”:”Review”,
“datePublished”: “2023-09-19T05:00:00+00:00”,
“description”: “Bazaar Girls by Kerrigan Byrne & Cynthia St. Aubin is the third RomCom novel in the Townsend Harbor series. This quirky little town has been a joy to visit. This time around, we get Gemma McKendr”,
“publisher”: {
“@type”: “Organization”,
“name”: “Caffeinated Reviewer” },
“url”: “https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/09/bazaar-girls-by-kerrigan-byrne-cynthia-st-aubin.html”,
“itemReviewed”: {
“@type”: “Book”,
“name”: “Bazaar Girls”,
“author”: {
“@type”: “Person”,
“name”: “Kerrigan Byrne, Cynthia St. Aubin”,
“sameAs”: “” },
“isbn”: “” },
“author”: {
“@type”: “Person”,
“name”: “Kimberly”,
“sameAs”: “https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/” },
“reviewRating”: {
“@type”: “Rating”,
“ratingValue”: 3.5,
“bestRating”: “5”
}
}

We met both Gemma & Gabe in the previous books and while each story contains its own romance; I encourage you to read the series in order.

Gemma owns the local craft store and hosts Stitch & Bitch. She is also actively involved with the town council and events. Sometimes this takes a toll, particularly because she suffers from neurodivergent issues. I adored Gemma. She is sweet and her intentions are pure despite her family’s attitudes towards her ADHD. Her father, who owns the building housing her store, is demanding to see the books. Her sister Lyra scolds Gemma like she is a toddler and don’t even get me started on Lyra’s fiancé.

We met Gabe Kelly in a previous novel and I was delighted to learn more about this man. Gabe had a rough upbringing in Boston, suffers from PTSD and is looking for redemption. He thinks he has found it here in Townsend where he bought the local auto repair shop. He is attracted to Gemma, but doesn’t see himself as worthy.

When Gemma discovers he is sleeping in his garage, she offers to lease her basement. I loved the forced proximity and the romance that develops as these two learn to trust.. Family drama, growth and the past create obstacles as I stayed up into the wee hours hoping for a happily ever after.

I love the town and enjoy these authors. I struggled with a few threads/scenes and inconsistencies. Nothing an editor couldn’t correct and the overall story and characters overshadowed them.

If you are looking for a steamy, heartfelt, diverse RomCom set in a seaside town, I think Bazaar Girls would make a lovely fall read.

Amazon*

*KindleUnlimited

Bazaar Girls by Kerrigan Byrne & Cynthia St. Aubin delivered another must read romance in the Townsend Harbor RomCom series. #NewRelease #bookreview
Click To Tweet

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/09/bazaar-girls-by-kerrigan-byrne-cynthia-st-aubin.html

Betty, Bentley, and Mr. Bee, three inseparable pals, thoroughly enjoy their time together under the sun. Yet, amidst their delightful adventures, Betty finds herself facing a daunting school assignment. Fortunately, Bentley and Mr. Bee rise to the occasion, joined by a wonderful neighborhood full of eager friends ready to embark on this thrilling journey.

Miki Taylor’s Bentley’s Fantabulous Idea is a heartwarming tale of neighborhood exploration and collective problem-solving. The narrative flows gracefully, making it an excellent choice for interactive reading sessions with young children. Eunhye Shin’s illustrations are breathtaking, showcasing whimsical children’s art that truly captivates. The vibrant yet gentle colors breathe life into every character, enveloping the reader in a charming world. Bentley, the adorable puppy, steals hearts, and the interactions between Bentley and Betty are touching.

This children’s book beautifully underscores the unique bond between humans and their animal companions, reminding us of the connections we share with our furry friends. The overall exuberance from Betty, Bentley, and Mr. Bee’s adventures is infectious. This story brims with boundless joy, leaving readers excited and eager for more.

I anticipate many more delightful children’s books from this promising author. Bentley’s Fantabulous Idea offers an optimistic narrative of overcoming challenges with the unwavering support of your dearest friends, accompanied by stunning illustrations that genuinely leap off the page. This picture book is a fantastic choice for shared reading experiences. It reminds us that friends come in all shapes and sizes, and Bentley, Betty, and Mr. Bee are sure to forge lasting connections with readers of all ages.

Pages: 44 | ASIN : B0CGMFZBXD

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/19/bentleys-fantabulous-idea-3/

The coral reef is a truly amazing place, and Sammy and Scarlett are just beginning to discover how special it is. Sammy, a sergeant major, and Scarlett, a yellowtail snapper, have been prepared for this journey by Manny the Mangrove. He has provided them with all the instructions necessary to guide them to the barrier reef. As they travel, the two encounter Howie, a sea turtle who offers to escort the pair while providing some much-needed advice on how to stay safe in the vast ocean. Howie not only shows Sammy and Scarlett the ways of the water, but he opens up a whole new world full of beauty and wonder.

Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure, written by Robert Andrew Provan and illustrated by Mary Wentzel, is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that tells the story of a fantastic journey undertaken by two fish bound to reach the barrier reef and begin their lives anew. Provan’s book is an exceptional one for young readers as it offers them both an engaging storyline complete with suspense while at the same time handing them a long list of facts about ocean life disguised neatly within a narrative.

To say this is a beautifully illustrated book is really an understatement. Wentzel depicts one of the most stunning places on Earth in what can only be described as equally breathtaking illustrations. I found myself examining the phenomenal detail in every picture as I explored along with Sammy and Scarlett. Each page brings a new and intricate representation of the plants and animals that inhabit the coral reef.

Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure, written by Robert Andrew Provan and illustrated by Mary Wentzel, is a lovingly-crafted children’s picture book that would make an excellent gift for an elementary-aged reader interested in ocean life. I highly recommend the team of Provan and Wentzel to any parent or educator.

Pages: 46 | ASIN : B0C6LSXHLQ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/19/sammy-scarletts-coral-reef-adventure/

Devin and his classmates initially relish their time at school, enjoying the joy of learning and playing outdoors. However, as they delve into the complexities of mathematics, their enthusiasm wanes, and school loses its appeal. Devin, in particular, finds math to be a challenging subject despite his best efforts to improve. Frustration sets in, and he contemplates giving up on it altogether. During this moment of struggle, Devin turns to his parents, expressing his disappointment, particularly with math. Devin’s father steps in and shares a clever math trick, one that infuses an element of fun into the subject. This simple yet imaginative approach rekindles Devin’s interest in math and reignites his passion for learning.

The Inspiring Stories of Devin & Rose: The Math Magician by Klever Kiddoz is a stirring narrative that delivers a powerful message to young readers: perseverance pays off, especially when faced with challenging tasks. Devin’s experience with the difficulty of math in school mirrors what many students encounter. The story beautifully illustrates how finding creative and enjoyable ways to learn can capture young minds and make the most formidable subjects more accessible. It’s heartwarming to witness Devin’s father stepping into the role of a magician to inspire not only his son but also his friends. This book deserves a place on the shelves of schools and libraries, serving as a valuable resource for young learners. The illustrations seamlessly enhance the story, evoking a delightful sense of nostalgia akin to the style of the Magic School Bus.

Author Klever Kiddoz has masterfully crafted an uplifting story with The Inspiring Stories of Devin & Rose: The Math Magician. This children’s book can potentially spark young readers’ imaginations. I recommend this story, as it encourages resilience and the pursuit of knowledge, leaving a lasting and positive impact.

Pages: 54 | ASIN : B0C9K6M4Y5

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/19/the-inspiring-stories-of-devin-rose-the-math-magician/

Blood Tithe follows a 20-year-old young woman and historian who is ready to embark on a quest for unadulterated truth and cross into adulthood. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

Our first novel within the Gothika world (Raise the Dead) had the readers thrown into the setting, so with Blood Tithe, we wanted to take a step back. By taking on the coming-of-age concept, it became a better way to explore and understand the world through Lyric’s eyes. We wanted to create and share that sense of wonder and exploration through someone who isn’t used to seeing this part of the world, as well as a sense of horror and dread about what lurks in the shadows. That was part of the inspiration, while the other part was actually Alfred Hitchcock in that his stories were about putting ordinary people in extraordinary situations. Lyric’s journey fell right into those stories that I like. 

Lyric, Jalin, and Esperanza set out together to confront the danger that threatens their world. What was the inspiration for the relationship that developed between the characters?

So the first draft had the relationships drawn up very differently. In fact, Lyric was less of the main character and more of a supporting one on the first run with a hate/respect relationship between Jalin & Esperanza. The final product was more like an intense version of the X-Files’s Mulder & Scully – still with a hate/respect relationship but I had a need to create a very “driven” personality that would clash against a stoic and reserved personality. For Lyric, her personal relationships develop with each interaction with the outside world. Much like Rapunzel being exposed to the real world, is overwhelming but she believes in collaboration and so she is the bridge between the two J&E.

Monsters were not supposed to be real, yet, that is what Lyric discovers on her journey. The creatures in this book were very intriguing. How did you go about creating them for this book?

Firstly, we wanted our own take on vampires (or vampyres as we call them). Both CS and I are history buffs when it comes to legends and lore, so we talked extensively about what it means to be that creature. We wanted to go back to the roots of it being more monstrous and inhuman than what was portrayed in current media. As for the monsters that are touched on here (or will be coming in later books) – they are either amalgamations of creatures based on myths local to us, or local Mexican culture. Being Mexican, I wanted to give my culture’s creatures and monsters time in the spotlight. So yes, more creatures to come.   

I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers? 

The next story (which I’ve already started working on) is going to touch base with our first pair of characters (Emilio & Marisol). The first book had a semi-happy ending but with a few questions left unanswered. This next book will answer some questions, expand more of the world, and probably create more questions. We actually have a plan for 5 to 6 stories that will connect with each other as well as the overall plot we have mapped out. When CS and I map a story out… we really map things out big. In short – there will be more to come from Lyric, Jalin & Esperanza as well.   

Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/19/going-back-to-the-root-of-monsters/

The Pilgrim follows a man who wakes up to discover his life was all part of an advanced civilization experiment and that he also holds a rare spiritual ability. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

Because of my love of family, I have seen my fervor for history, as well as my passion for wondering about the future, deepen dramatically.

The Immortality Wars series was created from several questions I asked myself. For example, given the history of humanity’s conflict between good and evil, what will we be like 540 years from now in 2562? If we continue the exponential increase in our rate of knowledge, where will this rapid development take us? Will we be at peace, or will we be at war? What power will science hold over us? Will faith fall away? 

When I was a boy my parents let me go to the movie theater to see Ben‒Hur (1959). I was completely in awe of this film. I was completely immersed in watching a powerful human drama set within the time of Christ. I never experienced anything like it. From that moment on, I wanted to see if I could ever write something similar. When I was older I read J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit (1937) and The Lord of the Rings (1954 – 1955). The same powerful response to Tolkien’s work that I had to Lew Wallace’s (1880) work of Ben‒Hur, as translated by director William Wallace onto the “big screen,” occurred.

In 2014, I felt I was ready to write, even attempt, such a story. I recalled the quote by Arthur C. Clarke, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” It is Clarke’s third law about the future.

I wondered what it would be like if I could somehow bring people from the 18^th century, like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John and Abigail Adams, into the 21^st century. These folks are people from a fire and horse culture. What would they think of our present-day world if they were taken to New York City, Paris, London, Tokyo, Abu Dhabi, Beijing, and Shanghai? Would they think of me as a mighty conjuror or wizard?

Then I thought, What would I think and believe if someone from the 26^th century brought me into their world? What would such a world look like? What would civilization become? What would happen to faith? To science? To people?

That scenario became the basis for the beginning idea of the series.

I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from and how did it change as you were writing?

The setting in this novel was created based on my wondering about the future and fate of humanity. What will our world look like? Five hundred years ago, 16th-century Europe was ruled by three great powers, those of Henry VIII of England, Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, and Francis I of France. The divine rights of kings became accepted dogma and it led to an absolutism of corrupt power being placed in the hands of a powerful minority of people. It was a world of the horse, the sword, and wooden sailing ships. It was lit by fire and fire alone.

In looking at this world, the world of the 18^th century, as well as in our time at the beginning of the 21^st century, I wondered if we would have the same conditions in the use of power, fueled by greed, dominance over nature, and an overall corruption of the human spirit. I projected this timeline into the 26^th century. I looked at our timeline on the Earth from the Stone Age to the middle of the 26^th century.

I then thought about the Earth being polluted so badly, as well as other conditions becoming critically and alarming chaotic that they degrade our planet so badly that a major migration off the planet occurs. Global war, called “The First Armageddon” occurs from 2100 (Old Earth Time, oet) to 2075 oet. Eventually, the Earth is mostly abandoned. The various former world governments and powers seek nearby solace in terraforming and settling on 12 exoplanets that are located in the Orion Spur of the Milky Way Galaxy, which is in the same location as our solar system. They are called The Five Alliances.

The exoplanets were selected from what astronomers are finding from recent cosmological and data. I renamed them, such as Ouroboros where the main action of the Pilgrim ‒ Part I is set. It is located in the constellation of Scorpius and it is 23.6 light years, or 7.232 parsecs from our sun.

The setting of this story evolved with my exposure to the worlds that were unfolding. Each planet has its own individuality, which is based on current astronomical evidence of these exoplanets. As my knowledge of this world increased and it became populated by the beings inhabiting it, the setting became more detailed and real to me.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

I wanted to write a story that has intense human drama in it and set it alongside of a background wherein science and faith interact with one another. I wanted it to be a crucible, a severe trial of human, machine, and cyborg endeavors in which rational and spiritual understandings respond and react to one another. I thought I would try to carry on the visions of J. R. R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis in a 21^st century sensibility and see what happens to them. I hope it will be a modern allegory in the manner of John Bunyan’s (1678 oet) The Pilgrim’s Progress. As a Christian, I wanted to see how faith plays itself out in such technologically superior cultures at this point in civilization’s development.

 Can you tell us a little about where the story goes in book two and when the novel will be available?

Great question! It puts me on my literary toes.

Without giving a spoiler answer, I plan on returning to Evangel in the Pilgrim ‒ Part II. She is the main character in book two, the Penitent ‒ Part II, of my series. She and Pall Warren are soul mates, yet the story narrative seems to show them meeting one another only through their respective visions and dreams. Evangel, in part, is based on the character of Joan of Arc (c. 1412 – 30 May 1431 oet). She is a young woman with a powerful presence and charismatic personality. She is deeply connected to the Christian faith, which is forbidden in the culture in which she lives. Forces of good and evil gravitate around her more and more. Her high king’s champion advocates for her and brings Evangel under his protection.

I am currently researching and story boarding the next book. Several chapters have been composed but I’m not sure that they are what I want to employ for the completed story in this fifth book.

I used the AI–imager Midjourney v4 to generate a picture of her and I am stunned at the result. It’s a beautiful and captivating photo of Evangel. I plan on using it on the front cover of my next book.

Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website 

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/19/science-and-faith/