It’s occurred to me from time to time that the experience of Hell would be like going around a world’s fair of national humor. In an especially bleak place, there would be German humor. This would be chiefly the inflicting of pain, toilets, and schadenfreude. Young man, remorseless masturbator, slips on some ejaculate, falls down […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/10/19/punning-for-germany-the-short-end-of-the-sonnenallee-brussig/
One of my favorite novels is by Compton Mackenzie, a Scottish writer known today, if he is known at all, for his whimsically comic Whisky Galore (1947) and his ambitious early novel Sinister Street (1913). The one I love, however, is Extraordinary Women: Theme and Variations (1928), a satirical roman à clef about the sapphic […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/10/19/the-voyage-out-after-sappho-selby-wynn-schwartz/
In the summer of 1944 First Sergeant Jefferson Wiggins was just outside the French town of St.-Lô, on his way to help liberate the Netherlands, when a woman offered him a bottle of calvados. “You don’t understand how it is to have your freedom, to lose it and then to regain it,” she told him. […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/10/19/we-return-fighting-half-american-delmont/
When my father—a shy, stern man—Died, his features were unrelenting. I’d barely known my mother. I was nearing twenty. So I took up writing…but I kept Hearing that demon Truth Whistling over my efforts: “These effusions, My dear boy…really…have you not done?” I hadn’t the heart to get married, feeling For myself only bitter contempt. […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/10/19/warning-jules-laforgue/
My romance with history began in the fifth grade, in the 1960–1961 school year, in a class taught by the only male teacher in my West Virginia elementary school, Mr. McHenry. Our ancient history textbook had at most a few line drawings and no photographs at all that I recall, but it sucked me in […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/09/29/finding-my-roots/
I know what you are thinking. Spooky season isn’t over yet and Caffeinated Reviewer is talking about holiday & winter reads? But, now is the time to line up those books & audiobooks and clear your calendar for the Ho-Ho-Ho Readathon beginning November 16th. This is my favorite readathon, and I hope you’ll join in the fun. We’ll have fun challenges and it’s a great way to meet bookish friends.
This year the annual Ho-Ho-Ho Readathon will begin at 12:01 am Thursday November 16th and will end Monday, November 27th at 11:59 pm in your time zone. Giving us twelve days of fun.
Get your holiday & winter setting books and be prepared to have fun! Audiobooks, library books, ebooks, old books or new books we don’t care. Don’t forget the hot chocolate!
BE AN ELF: We need Challenges hosts. Please email me, if you’d like to host a challenge for the event. You will need to provide a small international prize. Create a festive puzzle, exchange recipes, create a spine poem, make a bingo board, a scavenger hunt, holiday movie trivia or come up with your own clever idea.
*linky will close November 24 at 8pm.
I signed up for the #2023HoHoHoRAT! Come join the fun! Read holiday & winter books/audios. Take part in challenges, win prizes, and make new bookish friends! #readathon The magic happens November 17th-November 27th #readathon…
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/09/2023-ho-ho-ho-readathon-sign-up.html
In Ruled by Fate, by Sam Withrow and Amelia Pinkis, readers delve into the tumultuous life of Brie. A harrowing car crash five years prior claimed her mother’s life and left her narrowly escaping death. The scars of that traumatic event, intensified by a haunting supernatural experience, have made Brie’s journey to healing an intricate maze. As she grapples with these memories, two anchors emerge: the comforting presence of her confidante, Sherry, and a cherished pendant, a maternal legacy symbolizing protection and a potential connection to the enigmatic guardian angel, Cameron, who once saved her.
Taking a leap of faith, Brie embarks on a fresh chapter, embracing the challenges of an ER nurse at the esteemed Daya Memorial Hospital. However, the supernatural isn’t entirely done with her. As she finds herself ensnared in a web of malevolent forces, the protective shadow of Cameron returns, reminding her that the road to normalcy might be more elusive than she thought.
The narrative fabric of Ruled by Fate masterfully intertwines biblical characters and rich mythology, offering readers a front-row seat to Brie’s trials, her evolving bond with Cameron, and her crusade against otherworldly adversaries. The chemistry between Brie and Cameron, sprinkled with lighthearted banter, infuses warmth into the story, ensuring the gravity of their mission is always in sharp focus. As much as readers are drawn into this captivating tale, a lingering enigma remains—Brie’s unique role in the supernatural saga and the profound significance of her pendant. Although hints suggest a sequel might illuminate these mysteries, I think a revelation in this installment could have heightened the intrigue further.
Ruled by Fate is a brilliantly crafted debut to the “Forbidden Tears” series. Withrow and Pinkis weave a narrative that promises suspense, romance, and a tantalizing supernatural allure. Readers will be eager for the next chapter in Brie and Cameron’s mesmerizing journey.
Pages: 277 | ASIN : B0CFPXRRZ3
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/29/ruled-by-fate/
In Three Second World by Dr. Tanjia Coleman, readers are ushered into a transformative journey tailored for women with ambitious career goals. This self-help guide provides a comprehensive understanding of leadership: its essence, its demands, and the path to attaining and sustaining it. With riveting success stories of women globally, who’ve navigated challenges to shine brightly in various sectors, the book stands as a testament to what determination and resilience can achieve.
Beyond just anecdotes, Dr. Coleman delves into actionable strategies, highlighting the importance of resilience, the art of networking, and the intrinsic qualities that shape a leader. The book underscores the fact that achievement knows no gender; with the right tools, every woman can soar to unparalleled heights. To enhance this journey, readers benefit from Dr. Coleman’s personal experiences, insightful tips, and curated guides, all designed to provide maximum value.
Upon immersing in its pages, I found my confidence bolstered by the empowering narratives. Unlike generic leadership content, this book offers profound insights, making leadership principles more digestible through relatable personal stories. Dr. Coleman’s expertise radiates throughout, making this a valuable companion for any woman aspiring to break barriers and ascend to leadership, even in traditionally male-dominated spheres. Three Second World is more than just a book; it’s a beacon for every woman determined to carve her niche in the world.
Pages: 162 | ASIN : B0C4M6NCW1
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/29/three-second-world/
In Once Upon a Startup, Danielle Sady takes us on an enlightening journey from her early dreams of entrepreneurship to her ultimate success as a businesswoman. Blending personal anecdotes with tangible advice, Sady offers a rich tapestry of lessons learned, mistakes made, and victories won.
This work seamlessly intertwines Sady’s biographical snippets with actionable insights for budding entrepreneurs. The essence of passion, determination, and a forward-thinking mindset is poignantly emphasized as pivotal in pursuing entrepreneurial ambitions. The candid discussions about her trials and errors give readers a genuine understanding of the intricacies of building a thriving business.
Beyond sharing her story, Sady equips her readers with tools for their own ventures. Including practical tips, reflective questions, and tasks is a roadmap for those eager to carve their own path. Moreover, she underscores the indispensable nature of seeking guidance from seasoned mentors or like-minded peers and the necessity of adaptability in the ever-evolving business world.
One of the book’s standout features is its universal appeal. Sady’s writing embodies a conversational warmth that resonates with both business novices and seasoned professionals. While she occasionally opts for an informal tone, it lends a personal touch, making the narrative even more engaging. The real-life examples peppered throughout the text enrich the content and inspire and uplift.
Intended for those on the cusp of, or early in, their entrepreneurial voyage, Once Upon a Startup is more than just a guide; it’s a source of motivation. Sady’s infectious enthusiasm and her transparent account of entrepreneurship’s highs and lows create an invaluable resource.
Once Upon a Startup is a compelling testament to the power of tenacity and self-belief in the world of business. Danielle Sady’s passion for entrepreneurship shines through, making it an engaging read for anyone harboring business aspirations. A shining five-star recommendation, this book would be a cherished gift for any budding entrepreneur ready to take the leap.
Pages: 226 | ASIN : B0C3J37L4B
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/29/once-upon-a-startup/
Lone Star Justice follows Texas Rangers Hondo Stone and Kid Carter, who do their best to bring justice to Old San Antonio against the mounting opposition who outnumber and outgun them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
First, let me thank you for this great interview from your prodigious company, Literary Titan. I truly appreciate it. The inspiration for my story is manyfold. But first and foremost, my inspiration is my late brother, Duane “Mr. Bear” Campos, who is the heart and soul of the 2-Bru Krew. The way he lived with honor, courage, true friendship, and unwavering principles according to his Code of Honor inspired me to write this series of Western novels. The setup of the story is an homage to people of strength and resilience everywhere: law enforcement, soldiers, and other protectors of citizens who put the well-being of others ahead of their own. They are unsung heroes whom an ever-fickle modern society heralds with tickertape parades and yellow ribbons when it makes them feel good, then that same public oftentimes turns around and hypocritically chastises and scrutinizes these same defenders when they see that it takes a wolf to protect the sheep from other wolves.
What is the biggest thing that people THINK they know about the old west/western genre that isn’t so?
Most people live under the misconception that during the Old West, Texas was populated by mostly Hispanics or Whites from the South, when the truth was Texas was a melting pot within the “melting pot” of the United States. Though it is true, Hispanics made up a great percentage of the population and were there long before Anglos, Texas, was filled with Indigenous Native Americans of many different tribes. And Texas was similar to New York in being a key destination for immigration, such as the “Forty-Eighters”, who were European immigrants that came to Texas in the late 1840’s-1850’s and not only settled throughout the state but also founded many new towns with their European culture. My series of Western novels, starting with “Old San Antone” and continuing with “Gunfighter’s Requiem” and “Lone Star Justice”, has several leading characters who are German-Jewish immigrants that settled in Old San Antone, such as the Birnbaum Family, Dr. Issak Jaffe, and Papa Schultze, to name a few. There are a slew of other Europeans too, like the Bohemian Czech gunman Dutchy Laszlo, the French gambler Taj, and perhaps most prominently of all, one of the main characters, the Englishman “Kid Carter”. Other main characters are also transplants to the west: Captain Hondo Stone is originally from Illinois, Jess LeBeau is from Kentucky, Kay Hart is from New York, Sara-Belle Garnett is from Philadelphia. Not to mention the antagonists such as: J.B. Jenkins who is from Ohio, Dickie Diamond and Dexter Gaff are from New York, and the gunman Domino McGillicutty is from Ireland. But the ethnic group that is oftentimes most overlooked is African-Americans, and I’m proud to say they are represented well in my novels, with the lead characters Ma’am Daisy Brown, the gambler Red-Dog Rouge, Madam Rose, the young lad Toby, and an assortment of gunmen, and of course, Moses Brown, whom Hondo makes the first Black volunteer Texas Ranger.
Your novels are extensive and detailed, showcasing the real old-west. Were there scenes you ended up cutting you wish you could’ve kept? Describe them and the decision-making process.
Thank you for the compliment about the detail of my novels, I truly appreciate it, it means a lot to me. To me, a novel should be detailed. People read to be immersed in a world within their mind, and as authors it’s our job to transport them there with words that fly off the page, enter their mind, and take them to another place in time where they can live and experience another life as though they were living it themselves. It’s easy for an author to pump out a 125-page pamphlet that reads like a quick screenplay with little to no description, which leaves the reader guessing what happened, and transports them no where except to a place where they wasted a handful of cash and a few boring hours sifting through a book that should’ve been left unread. But it takes dedication and love of the craft of writing for an author to pour their heart and soul into their books. I am a writer who does that. My blood is in those pages… Not “on” them, but “in” them… Did I cut anything out? No. It’s all there. That’s why I made the conscious decision to make this an ongoing series of books, where one picks up where another left off. Maybe some people might think them long. But to paraphrase the prodigious author Victor Hugo about his novel Les Misérables: “Due to the great length of my book, I don’t know whether this story will be read by everyone… But it is meant for everyone. Because it is written for everyone…”
Do you plan to write more books surrounding Hondo Stone and Kid Carter? If so, where will the story take readers?
That’s a great question. Most definitely, I’ll be writing more books following the “Chronicles of Hondo Stone and Kid Carter”. For those who’ve read the first 3 books thus far, they know that each novel begins with a “Prologue” that takes place in the year 1900, with a young journalist coming to Old San Antone wanting to find out more about the lives of Hondo and Carter, so he can write a series of stories about them. He meets a grizzled old newspaperman who knew them, and the widow of Carter, and together, they tell this journalist the tale. The chapters of each book then immediately transport the reader back to 1867, and they get to “live” the experience first-hand, seeing the events unfold as they did at that time. At the end of the book, it returns to the year 1900, with the journalist begging to know more, and knowing the story will continue in the next novel. So the future books will continue the tale of the two best friends, Hondo Stone and Kid Carter, and the people closest to them, Jess LeBeau, Rachel Birnbaum, Sara-Belle Garnett, Daisy Brown, Professor Birnbaum and his wife, and other main characters, as their lives intersect with events, both tragic and triumphant, that shape not only themselves, but the State of Texas over the years, chronicling the wild west as it actually happened. I am currently working on the 4th installment, which I plan to publish before the year is out. Thank you so much again for this wonderful interview with your great company and staff. I can’t thank you enough, Literary Titan. You are awesome.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Website | YouTube
Heroes never quit and never surrender. Sometimes they die, but they don’t ever give up. They fight to the bitter end, win or lose, live or die, and they take honor and glory with them. No one could ever ask for more than that. This is a story about heroes. This is a story about Captain Hondo Stone, Texas Ranger, and his best friend and brother-in-arms, Kid Carter.
This is the third installment in the continuing tale of Hondo Stone and Kid Carter: two imperfect heroes for an imperfect world, that was suffering an imperfect time in history… The world might deem them as anti-heroes, because they may seem hard to fully understand at times, but all great men of honor usually are… They’re complex souls, who may appear to be insufferable to those who don’t appreciate the kind of unique lives that they live, but they’re also the most tender-hearted of all people to those that they love. For they live lives that are vastly different from what others may deem to be a “normal” or “ordinary” life. But that’s what it takes to be the stuff of legend: to be heroes in a world that has grown too cynical to believe in heroes anymore.
Picking up right where “Gunfighter’s Requiem” left off, “Lone Star Justice” is the exhilarating and much-anticipated continuation of the “Chronicles of Hondo Stone and Kid Carter”, which culminates the events of the first two books in an explosion of an exciting action-packed climax that’ll thrill you to your very core!
For, during the Christmas of 1867, in Old San Antone, there would be no peace on earth, and no good will towards all men… Rather there would be an ominous hell-storm of violence and vengeance unleashed within the city as the final battle between the Texas Rangers and the Jenkins Faction would playout on a fateful morning in which debts would be settled, vendettas would be resolved, lives would be lost, the balance of power would be changed, history would be made, legends would arise, and Lone Star Justice would be served, all by the hands of Captain Hondo Stone. What you must ask yourself is, do you have what it takes to seek out Lone Star Justice alongside Hondo and the Kid? Because if you do, then the greatest story of your life is only a turning of a page away.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/09/29/the-unsung-heroes/