Narrated by Elyse Osterhaug, Door To Door by T.L. Brown, is the first audiobook in the Door to Door mystery series. This genre-bending, cozy, paranormal murder-mystery pulled me. Emily Swift receives a book on her thirtieth birthday and opens a door to another world.

Door to Door
by T.L. Brown
Series: Door to Door Mystery #1
Length: 9 hours and 37 minutes
Genres: Cozy Mystery, Paranormal
Source: Author
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x

Two worlds collide when Emily Swift turns 30, and her late father’s journal lands on her doorstep…

Seventeen years after Emily Swift’s father died, a door is opened to a new world, an Empire led by peculiar men and women called Salesmen–transporters of magical items. These Salesmen have the unique ability to travel from place to place, and even world to world, simply by stepping through the “right” door. Now that Emily is 30, it turns out that she can “door travel” too, stumbling unplanned into kitchens, bathrooms, and alleyways as her connection to the Salesman Empire is revealed.

Fueled by the cryptic notes and sketches in her father’s journal, Emily discovers the real reason behind his death: he was targeted and assassinated by the Fringe, a terrorist group of rogue Salesmen. After an attack that leaves an innocent woman dead, a rare book containing clues to the whereabouts of the Crimson Stone is missing. Emily is charged with getting it back. As she races through the Empire, she pursues John Templeton, the mysterious Salesman with extraordinary abilities, who seems to help and undermine Emily at whim.

With new friends Anne Lace and the seemingly-boyish Rabbit, she tracks Templeton, but the Fringe is not far behind–as two new murders prove. Along the way, Emily struggles to balance her desire to find out who killed her father against the task of recovering the legendary stone. The internal journey of reconciling the father she hardly knew with the great leader she’ll never know forms the foundation for a fast-paced race to keep powerful magic out of violent, fanatical hands.

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Emily Swift’s world takes a turn when her deceased father’s journal appears on her doorstep on her thirtieth birthday. It’s been over seventeen years since her father’s tragic death. It seems her father was a salesman for another realm. He traveled through doors, transporting magical items, and wearing a top hat. As Emily reads the journal, she discovers that she, too, can travel through doors. With no training, she accidentally stumbles into kitchens, bathrooms and more. But danger is lurking and someone is seeking something for nefarious purposes.

As we learn about the alternate world of Empire, Emily soon finds herself in danger and questioning her father’s death. The tale that unfolds has a cozy murder-mystery vibe steeped in fantasy. Author T.L. Brown quickly pulled me in from Rabbits to the mysterious Fringe.

Emily’s mission is to locate the Crimson Stone, an influential artifact. During her travels, she’ll need to be bold and choose whom to confide in. Emily’s discoveries made the world come to life with vivid detail. I loved adventure, danger, and discovery. The story flowed well, and the danger built. I found myself unable to set the audiobook down.

There are currently three books in the Door to Door Mystery series and I am hoping the author brings the next two books to audio. Elyse Osterhaug does a lovely job of giving voice to Emily and setting the tone of the story. Her narration enhanced the tale and I hope to continue in this format.

Amazon* | Audible

Narrated by Elyse Osterhaug, Door to Door by T.L. Brown, delivered an engaging cozy fantasy mystery and is the first in the Door To Door Mystery series. #audiobook #audiobookreview
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Reading this book contributed to these challenges:

• 2023 Audiobook Challenge

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/09/door-to-door-by-t-l-brown.html

Operation Mom: My Plan To Get My Mom A Life and a Man by Reenita M. Hora is a captivating comedy-drama that introduces readers to the vibrant world of Ila, a young woman whose ambition for her summer vacation is to revel in her fan-girl adoration for her beloved star, Ali Zafar. However, her well-intentioned yet overly controlling mother, Veena, stands in her way.

In an attempt to reclaim her summer, Ila, with the help of her friend Deepali and Deepali’s boyfriend Dev, orchestrates an ingenious scheme named ‘Operation Mom.’ This involves crafting an array of intriguing dating profiles for Veena across a multitude of platforms, opening up a world of potential suitors. Ila’s newfound role as a matchmaker ushers her and her friends into a series of amusing misadventures as they attempt to sift through an eccentric cast of characters to find Veena’s perfect match.

Simultaneously, the pressure is on as they race against the clock to find Veena’s love interest before Deepali departs for her summer plans. Amid this whirlwind, Ila begins to develop feelings for Dev, adding another layer of complexity to their mission. Will they succeed in their quest before the summer ends? Will Ila find love in the unexpected? The journey unravels through the pages of this delightful read.

What distinguishes this novel is its lighthearted and upbeat tone. The narrative flows effortlessly, making for an easy and enjoyable read. It also vividly portrays Mumbai, immersing the reader in the rich tapestry of its culture, language, and local color. The reader is transported to the bustling streets of Mumbai, feeling the pulse of its people and gaining insights into their everyday lives.

Operation Mom also deftly explores the timeless dynamic between mothers and teenage daughters. It delves into the nuances of their relationship, highlighting how their similarities can often spark conflicts, even as they share a profound bond.

This novel offered an array of perspectives that could be seen as authentic representations of diverse characters, adding to its appeal. There were moments of body positivity that could have been emphasized more, and it would have been rewarding to see the characters embracing all body types with more acceptance. Some scenes may have felt a bit prolonged, but they could also be seen as opportunities to immerse oneself deeper into the narrative’s intricate world. One particular scene included multiple text message conversations, which added a layer of realism, though it would be helpful if the formatting could be tweaked for better readability. Furthermore, the inclusion of specific Indian phrases and references enriched the cultural texture of the book. It would be fantastic if a glossary or index could be provided for those unfamiliar with the culture, enhancing understanding and appreciation of the narrative.

Operation Mom is a heartwarming exploration of Indian culture and the intricacies of mother-daughter relationships, all wrapped up in a humorous narrative. This book is a must-read for those who revel in culturally rich stories and enjoy an engaging romp through the labyrinth of love, family, and friendship.

Pages: 266 | ASIN : B0BBQ6TPXS

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/21/operation-mom-my-plan-to-get-my-mom-a-life-and-a-man/

In The Wolf Esprit, esteemed author Joseph Stone takes readers on a dark fantasy exploration of identity, societal norms, and hidden legacies. The tale unfurls around Esprit, a talented and strikingly handsome member of a nomadic performing troupe. Beneath the spotlight, Esprit conceals a profound secret: he’s attracted to men, a truth not embraced in his milieu. Only a select few are privy to his truth, but a twist of fate exposes him, leading to a harrowing incident that catapults him into a world of mystery and wonder.

Suddenly, Esprit is connected with Max, an enigmatic figure with the dual identity of a seasoned bureaucrat and a formidable wolf-like being. With revelations about their shared werewolf lineage, Esprit finds himself at Max’s lavish abode, confronting truths that could alter the trajectory of his life forever. Stone deftly melds layers of supernatural intrigue with heart-wrenching human emotions, offering readers a panoramic view of a world marked by love, acceptance, betrayal, and power struggles.

What distinguishes The Wolf Esprit is Stone’s eloquent prose, which paints a vibrant tapestry of emotions, settings, and relationships. The narrative isn’t merely another paranormal tale; it’s a rich saga rooted in character development, setting it apart within the dark fantasy genre. The ethical quandaries faced by Esprit, combined with the tension of supernatural revelations, form a plot that’s both riveting and deeply moving.

The Wolf Esprit is an enthralling amalgamation of fantasy, romance, and the ethereal, presenting readers with a novel perspective on dark fantasy. Its cinematic potential is undeniable, making it ripe for a screen adaptation. For those enamored by tales that challenge conventions and transport into beguiling realms, this book is an exemplary pick.

Pages: 451 | ASIN : B0CHBR9BYR

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/21/the-wolf-esprit/

From a tender age, Nancy Grace Roman harbored an unwavering fascination with the stars. The ever-shifting backdrop of her life, due to her father’s profession, meant frequent relocations. Yet, wherever they settled, Nancy would swiftly shift her gaze upwards, always finding comfort in the constellations. Living in an era where societal norms often dictated the paths women could take, many of Nancy’s contemporaries aspired to professions like nursing. However, Nancy was not to be swayed from her celestial aspirations.

Opting for the path less traveled, she pursued her ambitions and secured a coveted spot at Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania—a progressive institution that admitted women during a time when many did not.

Nancy’s journey was marked by audacity and brilliance. Graduating with a degree in astronomy in 1946, she navigated the male-centric world of her profession with tenacity. Nancy’s indomitable spirit saw her make significant contributions to our understanding of the Milky Way. When she joined NASA, her stellar trajectory culminated as she assumed the esteemed role of the first female Chief of Astronomy. Among her many accolades, Nancy’s pivotal role in the conception and realization of the Hubble Space Telescope stands out—a monumental endeavor that has since become instrumental in myriad research projects.

This biography underscores the potency of persistence and fortitude. It serves as a compelling testament to women’s capabilities and a call for society to nurture and uplift their ambitions. It conveys the importance of believing in oneself and pushing boundaries.

Accompanying the narrative are Gayle Cobb’s illustrations, which are nothing short of mesmerizing. The artistry she brings to the pages draws readers into Nancy’s world. However, I felt that the font size was a tad small.

As an astronomy enthusiast, I was thoroughly engrossed by the tale and the visuals. Her Eyes Were on the Stars seamlessly melds the essence of an autobiography with the brevity of a short story. A captivating read that is sure to inspire and enlighten young readers.

Pages: 36 | ISBN : 1955791511

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/21/her-eyes-were-on-the-stars-nancy-grace-roman-mother-of-hubble-space-telescope/

Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure follows two fish who wish to swim to the barrier reef in the Flordia Keys who befriend a turtle along the way. What was the inspiration for your story?

The inspiration for the book Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure was seeing a tiny sergeant major fish darting about in a sun lit tidal pool in the Florida Keys. For reasons unknown even to me at the time, I turned to my fiancé Stephanie and said “check out Sammy the Sergeant Major down there” as I pointed into the tidal pool. There were many other inhabitants in this mini ecosystem including a tiny yellow tailed snapper fish which was quickly given the name Scarlett. I have loved the natural world since childhood. As an adult, this fascination included scuba diving and snorkeling over coral reefs in Florida, the Bahamas and Caribbean among other global locations. I have seen juveniles of both species first hand hiding in the roots of mangrove trees. As an avid diver I have also seen adult sergeant major and yellow tailed snapper over coral reefs in numbers beyond counting. As I watched the two baby fish in the tidal pool, I thought, here is a story worth telling.

The art in this book is fantastic; readers are transported to life under the water in a way that they feel like they are part of the story. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Mary Wentzel?

Mary Wentzel is an extraordinarily gifted, award-winning artist. I had seen some of her wonderful work and knew that she was certainly a person with the requisite skill sets. We set up an in person meeting so that she my fiancé Stephanie Casimiro (who would be handling marketing for the books) I could get to know each other. The creative chemistry was nearly instantaneous. Mary read the first manuscript, did one trial sketch which was awesome and it was game on. We did not have rigid rules of collaboration for the development of the artwork other than “have fun with it”. Mary’s stunning artwork flows perfectly throughout the book with her vivid, one of a kind original images helping to tell the tale of Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure.

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

The primary foundational goal of Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure is to factually accurately depict how a coral reef and its myriad of inhabitants, coexist in one of the most amazing ecosystems on earth. The storyline was based upon my firsthand observations while diving and snorkeling over the decades. Inspiration for artistic images of the natural world were gleaned from many sources including our undersea photos. Great effort was made to be educationally accurate. Coral reefs are places that children need to learn are worth protecting for their benefit and for the benefit of generations yet to come. These are eco-systems worth saving.

Do you have more adventures planned for Sammy and Scalett in the future? If so, when can your fans expect the next story, and where will it take them?

That is an excellent question, thank you. Fans may be interested in knowing that Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure is actually a sequel to the previously published Sammy and Scarlett’s Mangrove Adventure. To your question, I do have another manuscript in the very early stages of development for Sammy and Scarlett. More to come on that soon.

Recently, I have been busy wrapping up my fourth children’s book entitled Kiki and Slugger’s Magic Spring Adventure which is due out this fall. This is a very fun story also set in the iconic Florida Keys, which features the vivid interpretations of the natural world around us by the highly talented artist Mary Wentzel. Our fans will not be disappointed!

Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Instagram

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/21/coral-reefs-are-worth-protecting/

Alaska Deadly follows a private detective searching for a client’s missing husband, who, while on the case, uncovers a cult and a sex trafficking ring. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

While living in Anchorage from 2009 -2010, I was at a downtown open-air market where many vendors were selling their wares. I met a guide/photographer selling photographs of his work. Looking through dozens of images, I came upon the wolf photo and could not take my eyes off it. Many thoughts ran through my mind, and it was then an idea for the book was formed, only in a vague way, and I immediately bought the photo. A week later, I bought his coffee table book of photographs at a Barnes and Noble book signing. Soon I had scribbled about twenty pages of my ideas for a book, but I set aside until over ten years later when I expanded the rough draft into the 370-page novel. This was done in a year’s time with dozens of rewrites.

Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?

Yes, the background of the hero Race Warren is loosely modeled after me. My first job out of college was as a social worker, but Warren is single so, he was able to make the risky transition into a neophyte private eye.

With so many shocking twists to the plot of this novel, readers are kept on edge from start to finish. What was the hardest part about writing a mystery story, where you constantly have to give just enough to keep the mystery alive until the big reveal?

I see now the novel has some serious flaws, especially with plotting. I wrote the book “by the seat of my pants” with the image of the wolf as a key part. But I didn’t want the supernatural theme to predominate, and I wanted the book to have lots of action, so I intentionally added the plots with the Russian trafficking ring involving two different girls and Warren and the man he was originally tracking, Ron Billings, forming a duo to rescue the females and much of the book deals with the many twists and turns both men face as they try to free the girls. A key method, as I wrote, was to throw obstacles in front of the two heroes and to change the direction the storyline seemed to be going so you’ll see in the book that sometimes the characters inexplicably do the unexpected. I had no “plan” when writing; I made the story as much of a mystery to myself as it turned out to be for the readers, but it all flowed smoothly, and I always felt the story was going on a true path.

Race Warren is a well-written character that draws readers into his world. Will this novel be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?

Yes, of all the characters, Race is my favorite, and I have lots more to say about him. As a “seat of the pants” guy, I’m not planning a series, but I am working on the sequel to Alaska Deadly, which I believe will be a better book than its predecessor. I say this because of the many readers who gave Alaska Deadly their close attention and posted honest reviews that included bits of constructive criticism. The “feedback” will enhance the sequel.

Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/21/by-the-seat-of-my-pants/