Brendan Holmes, Margaret Marple and Auguste Poe open their private investigation business in a formerly rundown bakery that once was a grisly murder scene. Holmes, Marple and Poe by James Patterson and Brian Sitts delivered a delightful whodunnit.

Holmes, Marple & Poe
by James Patterson, Brian Sitts
Series: Holmes, Margret & Poe #1
Narrator: Christine Lakin
Length: 9 hours and 8 minutes
Genres: Crime Fiction
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x

Crime! Murder! Who are you going to call?

In New York City, three intriguing, smart, and stylish private investigators open Holmes, Marple & Poe Investigations. Who are these detectives with famous names and mysterious, untraceable pasts?

Brendan Holmes—The Brain: Identifies suspects via deduction and logic.

Margaret Marple—The Eyes: Possesses powers of observation too often underestimated.

Auguste Poe—The Muscle: Chases down every lead no matter how dangerous or dark.

The agency’s daring methodology and headline-making solves attract the attention of NYPD Detective Helene Grey. Her solo investigation into her three unknowable competitors will delight mystery fans.

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First, I love the original characters these investigators are using and they do so splendidly. Indeed, their mannerisms and skills reflect the greats. NYPD Detective Helene Grey attempts to investigate the three detectives whose solve rate is impressive. But the more she investigates, the less she knows. Others are investigating too, and I had a blast watching them fail.

I adored the characters and had fun comparing them to the original characters/authors. This was a great introduction to the series and offered some curious cases. Holmes, besides his ability to smell, is much like the original detective. Marple is a quick thinker with keen observation skills. Poe loves fast cars, weapons and women. He is the edgiest of the three.

This was a fabulous whodunnit with rich characters. I devoured the audiobook narrated by Christine Lakin. She captured the personalities of these characters and enhanced the overall tale. I think Patterson and Sitts have a hit with this first in series. I for one, cannot wait for more.

Perfect for fans of the classics detectives and whodunnits.

Amazon | Audible

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/01/holmes-marple-and-poe-by-james-patterson-brian-sitts.html

Charlie Chaloosy Is Often Quite Choosy by Brad Mason is a delightful exploration of a young boy’s journey as he learns to embrace new experiences. The story centers around Charlie, a character whose adherence to routine and preference for familiar things resonate strongly with the typical behaviors of a toddler. Mason’s narrative is both engaging and insightful, offering a mirror for young readers to reflect on their own reluctance to step out of their comfort zones.

What makes this book particularly appealing is its combination of vivid illustrations and Mason’s playful writing style. These elements together create a vivid and immersive world that draws readers into Charlie’s experiences. The illustrations are eye-catching and play a significant role in storytelling, effectively complementing the text. A key aspect of the book is its emphasis on encouraging children to try new things. This theme is presented in a gentle and persuasive manner, making it an excellent read for parents and their toddlers. The inclusion of a section at the end of the book for young readers to jot down something new they’d like to try is a thoughtful touch. It extends the book’s impact beyond the reading experience, inviting children to actively participate and apply the story’s message in their lives.

Charlie Chaloosy Is Often Quite Choosy is a charming and thoughtful book that not only entertains but also imparts a valuable lesson about the joys of discovering new things. Mason’s approachable storytelling makes this book a delightful read for both children and adults.

Pages: 24 | ISBN : 1960810367

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/15/charlie-chaloosy-is-often-quite-choosy/

20 SHORT STORIES OF WHEN THE MACABRE & HUMANITY CLASH

Massive spiders attack a hotel. A ghost cat that’s part of a paranormal revenge scheme. Two gunslingers refuse to duel. A haunted marine base flightline. A witch barista. A rattlesnake bite that creates multiverses. A fortune teller who is always right and always wrong. A dead, newlywed werewolf in a drainpipe. A mermaid whose captor is using her tail for meat…

What do they all have in common? Music inspired the stories in this collection. Some songs are mainstream; others are obscure. Regardless of whether you know the songs, these tales will make you laugh, gasp, tremble, and fill you with childlike nostalgia, while you pull the bedsheets to your eyes to check once more that your closet door isn’t still creaking open by itself…

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/15/selective-listening/

Eliza Jane Finds Her Hero, co-authored by Eliza Kelly and Debra Whiting Alexander, is a poignant and uplifting tale that follows a ten-year-old girl grappling with Tourette syndrome. As she navigates her path to self-discovery, she aspires to be her own hero, accompanied by her devoted chihuahua. This narrative is a testament to the power of kindness and the strength found in embracing one’s uniqueness, portraying a world where every individual’s distinctiveness contributes to life’s rich tapestry of adventures.

Kelly and Alexander have combined their expertise to craft a story that resonates with readers of all ages. Their portrayal of a young protagonist with Tourette syndrome shines a light on an often misunderstood condition, fostering awareness and empathy. However, the book goes beyond mere awareness, offering a positive and encouraging perspective on the challenges associated with the syndrome. The narrative is enriched with vivid, engaging illustrations that captivate the reader’s imagination and enhance the overall experience. The authors have skillfully balanced a narrative tone with accessible language, making the book a suitable and enjoyable read for both children and adults. The inclusion of humorous and relatable characters injects levity into the story, balancing its more serious themes.

At its heart, Eliza Jane Finds Her Hero is a story of empowerment. As Eliza Jane embarks on her journey, her courage and resilience serve as an inspiration. The book’s concise length and brisk pacing ensure a compelling read, all while imparting a significant and valuable lesson about acceptance and the inner strength that lies within everyone.

Pages: 62 | ASIN : B0CLL251XC

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/15/eliza-jane-finds-her-hero/

“Change is not merely necessary to life — it is life,” as Alvin Toffler once said, and Melissa Leich’s The Power of Change: Effective Strategies to Leverage Change, Thrive, Innovate, and Lead in Tomorrow’s World artfully underscores this reality. In her book, Leich presents a compelling argument for the embrace of change, not as a mere inevitability but as an opportunity for growth and innovation. She skillfully guides readers through the complexities of change, offering strategies to become more adaptable, flexible, and resilient.

Leich begins by dissecting the nature of change and its profound impact on both individuals and organizations, setting the stage for an in-depth exploration of the subject. Her narrative is both accessible and profound, employing a conversational tone and familiar terms to demystify the concept of change. For those who find change challenging, Leich dedicates an entire chapter to overcoming resistance, delving into the psychological underpinnings, and offering actionable strategies for influencing others.

Beyond its insightful content, The Power of Change is structured to maximize engagement and retention. Each chapter includes an exercise and a case study, transforming the reading experience into an interactive journey. The exercises are designed to be both enjoyable and enlightening, while the case studies provide real-world context and clarity. Additionally, the key takeaways at the end of each chapter serve as memorable and shareable gems of wisdom. Leich’s insightful and empathetic approach makes her a relatable guide through the often turbulent waters of change. Her book is a timely resource for a wide audience, from students and CEOs to religious leaders and community advocates. It offers a fresh perspective on the necessity of growth and adaptation, emphasizing the transformative power of change.

The Power of Change is a roadmap to embracing change with confidence and grace. It’s an essential read for anyone seeking to understand and harness the dynamism of change to lead a more innovative, thriving, and fulfilling life.

Pages: 179 | ASIN : B0CPD4YYY5

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/15/the-power-of-change-effective-strategies-to-leverage-change-thrive-innovate-and-lead-in-tomorrows-world/

L.M. Twist’s Louis Mie and the Trial of Hautefaye sets a compelling narrative against the tumultuous backdrop of early 1870s France. This novel, artfully intertwining historical fact with fiction, delves into the brutal mob murder in Hautefaye, an incident emblematic of the era’s societal strife, the aftershocks of war, and the shadow of Napoleon III. At the heart of this storm is Louis Mie, a distinguished lawyer tasked with defending the accused in a case that mirrors the nation’s turmoil. As he navigates the complexities of a high-profile trial, Louis also contends with personal challenges, from a strained marriage to a friendship tested by ideological divides.

One of the novel’s standout features is its exploration of intricate relationships, particularly the dynamic between Louis and his close friend, Vincent. Their intense exchanges, especially a pivotal moment where ideals and familial expectations clash, are a testament to Twist’s ability to craft deep, multifaceted characters. Twist excels in storytelling, striking a delicate balance between character development and a wider narrative scope. Before pivotal courtroom scenes, readers are immersed in the setting through rich, evocative descriptions, setting the stage for the drama to unfold. The book is a masterful blend of genres, weaving together historical intrigue, legal intricacies, and romantic entanglements. It paints a vivid picture of 1870s Hautefaye, capturing the political turbulence, legal complexities, and social unrest that culminated in peasant uprisings. These historical elements are seamlessly interwoven with a poignant romantic subplot marked by passion, heartbreak, and the trials of love.

Louis Mie and the Trial of Hautefaye offers a multifaceted narrative, shifting through time and perspectives to weave a captivating tale. L.M. Twist’s debut is a testament to the power of a well-told story, marrying historical depth with human emotion. I eagerly anticipate more from this promising author, whose initial foray into novel writing is both impressive and engaging.

Pages: 339 | ASIN : B0CPWZJKBR

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/15/louis-mie-and-the-trial-of-hautefaye/