We are at day forty-one of the Israeli retaliation against the Gaza Strip, following Hamas’s surprise attack on October 7. In response to the killing of 1,200 and the kidnapping of about 240 Israelis, Israel has now killed more than 11,000 residents of Gaza—most of them women, children, and the elderly. Thousands more are presumed […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/11/16/jordans-balancing-act/
This book will be denounced in Beijing. Ha Jin’s The Woman Back from Moscow is a novel based on the life of Sun Weishi, an adopted daughter of Chinese premier Zhou Enlai, whose brilliant mind and intensive study in Moscow of the Stanislavski acting method brought her to the pinnacle of China’s theatrical world during […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/12/07/a-fallen-artist-in-maos-china-the-woman-back-from-moscow/
Near the start of Abdulrazak Gurnah’s most recent novel, Afterlives, two men in a coastal town in German East Africa in the early 1900s muse on the possibility of a European war landing upon their shores: They were preoccupied at the time with rumors of the coming conflict with the British, which people were saying […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/12/07/prelude-to-empire-afterlives-abdulrazak-gurnah/
Fuel is “needed to power hospital generators, ambulances, and water pumps,” wrote Sari Bashi for the NYR Online on October 30. “Israel…cannot block a life-saving supply, which is what fuel is to Gaza right now.” She implored the US government to “insist that Israel immediately allow monitored fuel and other supplies into Gaza via Egypt and its own […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/11/18/basic-principles-humanity-sari-bashi/
Priscilla Beaulieu was fourteen years old when she met Elvis Presley, seventeen when she left her parents’ house for Graceland, twenty-one when she and Presley married, twenty-two when they had their first and only child together. Each of these events could be considered Priscilla’s informal passage into adulthood, but if you subscribe to the notion […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/11/18/childs-play-elvis-priscilla/
Nonna’s Corner is a special feature where I share books I’ve reviewed with my grandchildren, affectionately referred to as the “Royals” here at Caffeinated.
Illustrated by Christie Shinn, Underwater Girl by Maggie St.Thomas introduces us to Natty, a young girl who loves the sea and can hold her breath for long periods of time. Sea creatures, daring rescues and self-discovery await you. Come see why Sophia and I enjoyed this tale.
Underwater Girl
by Maggie St.Thomas
Illustrator: Christie Shinn
Genres: Childrens
Pages: 38
Source: Author
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
Rating: 
Experience the enchanting world of ‘Underwater Girl,’ a captivating children’s story masterfully woven by Maggie St. Thomas and brought to life through the enchanting illustrations of Christie Shinn. Within the pages of this magical narrative, readers are invited to dive headfirst into the world of Natty, a young girl whose vibrant spirit and remarkable talents make her journey an unforgettable adventure.
Natty’s story is a testament to the boundless wonders of childhood imagination and the power of embracing one’s unique abilities. As a free-spirited and fearless young girl, Natty possesses a remarkable gift for holding her breath underwater―a skill that sets her on a remarkable course of courage and self-discovery. Through Natty’s eyes, readers of all ages are immersed in a tale of friendship, bravery, and the limitless possibilities that lie within each of us.
In ‘Underwater Girl,’ Natty forms deep connections with the creatures of the sea, including dolphins, whales, seahorses, and sea turtles. Her island home becomes the backdrop for unexpected challenges and daring rescue missions that test her newfound skills and determination. Natty’s journey resonates with readers as they witness her growth, resilience, and unwavering spirit.
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The cover and title of Underwater Girl immediately intrigued my oldest granddaughter, who loves to swim. Inside, we meet a young girl named Natty who lives on an island. Natty loves the sea and swimming. She can hold her breath underwater for a remarkably long time. At school, her nickname is Underwater Girl.
We learn about Natty’s dreams of Olympic medals in swimming and awards in film photography. When she and her Dad discover a camera with film in it of their last trip as a family to Italy, they take a moment to remember Natty’s mom. The tale talks of memories, breakfast feasts and Natty’s life and goals.
Sophia’s favorite chapters were those spent in the sea as Natty plunged below the surface and connected with sea life, from turtles to seahorses.
We get some excitement when the island experiences an earthquake while Natty was at school. It surprised Sophia as she was not expecting that! Then a tsunami hits… it came in with little warning and just as quickly retreated. Some people needed saving and Natty does her part to help. Sophia found it all rather scary and exciting.
The story teaches about the importance of family, rituals, goals, love, kindness and believing in yourself. A lot happens in this story and Sophia found both Natty and what was happening engaging.
This is a chapter book with plenty of illustrations for context clues and curiosity. Perfect for young readers or reading to a group.
Amazon
Underwater Girl, a book by Maggie St. Thomas, showcased in Nonna's Corner, follows the adventures of a girl with a passion for water in her island home. #bookreview #childrensbook #chapterbook
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Narrated by Nicole Poole, The Chosen is my favorite in the series so far. I am excited for more of this pack. Romance, suspense and pack growth made for an addictive tale with a blend of humor I love in Dark’s stories. You’ll want to grab your earbuds & curl up with this one!
The Chosen
by Dannika Dark
Series: Black Arrowhead #3
Narrator: Nicole Poole
Length: 11 hours and 32 minutes
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x
“Fear is your enemy’s feast.”
The gripping third installment of the Black Arrowhead series.
Robyn is desperately searching for a pack, but the odds are stacked against her. Shifters don’t accept humans, especially ones with a watchdog. Her fate takes a wild turn when she hitches a ride with a band of rogues who are vying for a spot in a newly formed pack. Just when she gets a taste of the good life, a menacing force threatens to rip it away.
As a detective, Montana takes chances all the time. After seeing an open call for packmates, he gambles on an inexperienced Packmaster who has potential. When a mysterious woman joins their group, Montana defends her from those who would cast her out. Robyn is kind, loyal, and everything he desires. But when secrets are brought to light, they must each decide where their loyalty lies.
A romance forms between an unlikely couple, but can love conquer all when the stakes are too high?
Love takes courage.
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Dannika Dark is an autobuy for me, particularly in audio format. The Chosen is the third audiobook in the Black Arrowhead series. Like most urban fantasy, I recommend you listen to The Vow and The Alpha before beginning The Chosen. This book contains spoilers for the previous books and they, in turn, set up for events in The Chosen.
Robyn, a human who grew up in a pack, is traveling across country with her watchdog looking for a pack to call home. They are tired, hungry, and almost broke when they stumble upon a bus of shifters heading towards a pack with an open call for packmates. We meet detective, Montana, who is traveling with the group, and he instinctively offers his protection.
When they arrive on the lands, they see a rundown barn and an unfinished house. But Tak, the Alpha and packmaster, gives them all a place around the campfire and a chance to prove their worth. Until he decides each will sleep in tents and work to rebuild the house and barns.
I loved the tale that unfolds from the unique personalities that emerged to the chemistry between Robyn & Montana. The pack reminded me of characters from Keystone and that made me giddy as I quickly felt at home around the campfire. The strangers work together, forming bonds, and working to earn a place to call home. I love Tak as a Packmaster. It was wonderful seeing the previous couples and getting updates.
Dark weaves in some suspense as Robyn is harboring secrets, and it brings danger to their group. The story was addictive, and I enjoyed seeing characters from the first two books and connecting with new ones. These shifters are searching for a home, and each has their own story. I cannot wait to learn more about each of them.
The romance was slow-building with sizzling chemistry. Dark wove in tenderness, character growth and sweet moments before turning up the heat.
Nicole Poole narrates and does a fantastic job bringing Dark’s characters and series to life. She provides unique voices for everyone and enhances my enjoyment of the series. Dark’s series work wonderfully in audio format and the narration has only enhanced the characters and storylines.
Dark’s books are all set in the same universe. I’ve devoured them all! While I started with the Seven series, I recommend listening to the Mageri series before the Crossbreed series. You could begin with the Black Arrowhead series.
Fans of urban fantasy, shifters and romantic suspense will want to grab this series.
Amazon | Audible
Dannika was born on a military base in the U.S. and spent her youth traveling abroad. She developed an interest writing poetry and song lyrics early on, eventually gravitating toward a job that involved writing procedural training documentation. In her spare time, she wrote novels before she decided to pursue a career in publishing. In addition to writing about supernatural worlds, Dannika is passionate about graphic design and creates all her own covers and series art. When not writing, she enjoys indie music, movies, reading, Tex-Mex, strawberry daiquiris, heaps of chocolate, and unleashing her dark side. All of her published books to date are written in the same universe and contain material suitable for adults only. Dannika’s books have sold more than 1 million copies worldwide.
Nicole Poole is a classically trained actor with equal passions for literature and improvisation. She has toured with the Royal Shakespeare Company, has been a member of the critically acclaimed Walter Thompson Orchestra for over fifteen years, and recently became a member of the Parisian groups SPOUMJ and Anitya. She is honored to have been recognized for her narration by an AudioFile Earphones Award, a Publisher’s Weekly Listen-Up Award, and nomination for an Audie Award.
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A Fire in the Flesh by Jennifer L. Armentrout & narrated by Stina Nielsen had its trials, but I confess loved being back in this world. Sera and Nyktos will be tested when they are held captive by the false King of the Gods. Come see why I love this addictive series.
A Fire in the Flesh
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: Flesh and Fire #3
Narrator: Stina Nielsen
Length: 24 hours and 3 minutes
Genres: Fantasy, Romance
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating:
Heat Level: 
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout comes book three in her beloved Flesh and Fire series…
The only thing that can save the realms now is the one thing more powerful than the Fates.
After a startling betrayal ends with both Sera and the dangerously seductive ruler of the Shadowlands she has fallen madly in love with being held captive by the false King of the Gods, there is only one thing that can free Nyktos and prevent the forces of the Shadowlands from invading Dalos and igniting a War of Primals.
Convincing Kolis won’t be easy, though–not even with a lifetime of training. While his most favored Revenant is insistent that she is nothing more than a lie, Kolis’s erratic nature and twisted sense of honor leave her shaken to the core, and nothing could’ve prepared her for the cruelty of his Court or the shocking truths revealed. The revelations not only upend what she has understood about her duty and the very creation of the realms but also draw into question exactly what the true threat is. However, surviving Kolis is only one part of the battle. The Ascension is upon her, and Sera is out of time.
But Nyktos will do anything to keep Sera alive and give her the life she deserves. He’ll even risk the utter destruction of the realms, and that’s exactly what will happen if he doesn’t Ascend as the Primal of Life. Yet despite his desperate determination, their destinies may be out of their hands.
But there is that foreseen unexpected thread—the unpredictable, unknown, and unwritten. The only thing more powerful than the Fates…
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A Fire in the Flesh by Jennifer L. Armentrout is the third audiobook in the Flesh and Fire romantic fantasy series. This fantasy is best listened to in the order of its release.
The story kicks off with some intense action scenes and heart-pounding moments as Nyktos and Kolis battle. Then the unthinkable happens and Nyktos falls. Kolis captures Sera and Nyktos. The tale that unfolds frustrated me, held me captive and send my heart soaring.
For most of the story, they hold Sera in a gilded cage with visits from Kolis. He believes her to be his lost love. Nyktos is being held elsewhere and Sera does not know if he is ok. Kolis is unhinged and Sera has to tread lightly if she hopes to save Nyktos. Armstrong is a clever writer and delivered reveals, suspense, attempted rescues and more.
While parts held me on edge, I truly wish this middle part of the story was shorter. Sera has a tendency to overthink EVERYTHING, and at times, I just wanted to skip ahead. If not for the beginning and ending, this would have been a three cup listen.
The last part of the story when our lovers are reunited was brilliant, nerve-wracking, and delightful. The audiobook is over twenty-four hours long and if I could, I would have listened straight through. However, sometimes I needed to catch my breath, reassess and prepare because while I hoped I knew where things would go, there was always the fear it would not.
Fans of mythology and romantic fantasy will enjoy the Flesh and Fire series. I highly recommend listening. Stina Nielsen narrates and brought these characters and their emotions to life.
Amazon | Audible
Narrated by Stina Nielsen, A Fire in the Flesh by Jennifer L. Armentrout had its trials, but I recommend this series to fans of mythology and romantic fantasy #audiobook #audiobookreview
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# 1 NEW YORK TIMES, # 1 International, and USA TODAY Bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout lives in West Virginia. She also writes under the name J. Lynn. When she’s not hard at work writing, she spends her time, reading, working out, watching zombie movies, and pretending to write. She shares her home with her husband, his K-9 partner named Diesel and her hyper Border Jack Apollo, and a slew of farm animals that include alpacas, goats, and sheep.
Stina Nielsen is a New York based actress who has performed in Film, TV, Broadway, London’s West End, and at many American Regional Theaters. She has recorded over 200 audiobooks.
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Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful……
It’s time to begin the 2023 HoHoHo Read-a-thon! It’s snowing here on the blog and I’ve got my hot cocoa and pile of reads. Are you ready?
From now through November 27th, I invite you to enjoy as many holiday & winter books or listens as you can. Along the way, take part in the challenges, meet new friends and have fun! Be sure to use the hashtag #2023HoHoHoRAT so participants can cheer you on!
This year’s event runs from Thursday, November 116th through Monday, November 27th.
During the event, you can read and listen to books that are holiday or winter themed (setting) and take part in fun events & giveaways!
If you haven’t done so please link up to join. ONLY participants can take part in the fun challenges and prizes. To enter the participant giveaway you must read/listen to at least two books and finish one challenge.
Be sure to check out the rules. You can join HERE.
I am delighted to introduce you to our Elven hosts!! They have prepared fun challenges for you to take part in. Each will offer you the chance to win some goodies!
12 Days of Bookstagram Challenge. Use the prompts and post daily for a chance to win a $20.00 Amazon gift card. (International winners can choose a book from Better World Books) Be sure to use hashtag #2023HoHoHoRAT and tag me @caffeinatedreviewer. I will select one random winner using the hashtag and random.org.
Holiday goodies abound, and the more you take part, the greater your chances of winning the readathon participant prize. One person will win a book of their choice up to twenty-five dollars from Amazon or Better World Books (INT only). Remember, sign-up on the linky and read at least two books/audios and take part in one challenge to enter.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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The Puzzle Master by Danielle Trussoni is a thrilling science-fiction book that fans of Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code will love. An accident has left Mike Brink with the ability to see and create puzzles. When Jess Price, a woman in prison for murder, shows Mike a puzzle, his world turns upside down.
The Puzzle Master
by Danielle Trussoni
Genres: Thriller
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
All the world is a puzzle, and Mike Brink—a celebrated and ingenious puzzle constructor—understands its patterns like no one else. Once a promising Midwestern football star, Brink was transformed by a traumatic brain injury that caused a rare medical condition: acquired savant syndrome. The injury left him with a mental superpower—he can solve puzzles in ways ordinary people can’t. But it also left him deeply isolated, unable to fully connect with other people.
Everything changes after Brink meets Jess Price, a woman serving thirty years in prison for murder who hasn’t spoken a word since her arrest five years before. When Price draws a perplexing puzzle, her psychiatrist believes it will explain her crime and calls Brink to solve it. What begins as a desire to crack an alluring cipher quickly morphs into an obsession with Price herself. She soon reveals that there is something more urgent, and more dangerous, behind her silence, thrusting Brink into a hunt for the truth.
The quest takes Brink through a series of interlocking enigmas, but the heart of the mystery is the God Puzzle, a cryptic ancient prayer circle created by the thirteenth-century Jewish mystic Abraham Abulafia. As Brink navigates a maze of clues, and his emotional entanglement with Price becomes more intense, he realizes that there are powerful forces at work that he cannot escape.
Ranging from an upstate New York women’s prison to nineteenth-century Prague to the secret rooms of the Pierpont Morgan Library, The Puzzle Master is a tantalizing, addictive thriller in which humankind, technology, and the future of the universe itself are at stake.
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I loved Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code and Angels & Demons. The Puzzle Master gives off a similar vibe. Indeed, from the very first page, I was hooked. So why didn’t this rate higher for me? The concept was interesting, and the villain’s reasons for solving the puzzle felt relevant to current issues. However, the story had too much going on, which made it overwhelming.
I loved the journals and learning about the Dollmaker, and the pieces of the puzzle Jess provided Mike. The story of the golem, the mysterious deaths, strange marks, and religious mysticism all captivated me. But then we had unexpected helicopters, science fiction gobbledygook and point of views from side characters. The story was strange in parts and I had to set it down often.
We get suspense, some creepy dolls and plenty of action. I liked Mike and found his ability and skill set interesting. There is the hint of a romantic thread but it was lightly painted. Death, danger and twists await you should you decide to pick this one up.
Despite my issues, I genuinely enjoyed the story, maybe not as a whole, but the different threads pulled me in. The ending was good, with just enough openness to allow for another book. Would I read it? Yes, I think so.
Amazon | Audible
The Puzzle Master by Danielle Trussoni delivered a suspenseful science fiction thriller. Perfect for fans of Dan Brown. #bookreview #puzzles
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Danielle Trussoni is the author of The Puzzle Master (June 13, 2023), The Ancestor, Angelology, The Fortress and Falling Through The Earth. Danielle is an internationally best-selling author whose work has been translated into over 30 languages.
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