On December 23, three days after the presidential election in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), I received a call from Moïse Katumbi Chapwe, the highest-polling opposition candidate. “There has been massive fraud,” he told me. “They stole the vote.” It was hard to disagree. The results were not out yet, but observers from across the […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/01/16/a-simulacrum-of-elections/
The Bright Spot by Jill Shalvis is another standalone romance in the Sunrise Cove series. Come to Apple Ridge Farm, where Luna Wright’s world is turned upside down when the owner dies and wills the farm to her and Jameson Hayes. Goats, friendships and unexpected romance await you in this delightful tale.
The Bright Spot
by Jill Shalvis
Series: Sunrise Cove #5
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Heat Level: 
Luna Wright is a lot of things, but sweet and trusting aren’t on the list. However, she’s a sucker for the underdog and a hard-luck story. Adopted at birth, with scant knowledge of her biological family, she’s created her own inner circle, a motley crew which includes her bestie Willow, to help her run the struggling but charming Apple Ridge Farm.
With a farm-to-table café as well as a menagerie of rescued animals (complete with a baby goat who keeps escaping to the pantry to eat the secret stash of decidedly not organic potato chips), it’s the best home she’s ever known. But when Silas, the owner who they secretly call The Grinch, passes away, Luna discovers the farm is now under the control of both his investment manager, the enigmatic Jameson Hayes….and her. And that Silas had many, many secrets.
Now Luna’s carefully controlled corner of the world is threatened and she—along with some of her friends—has to dig deep to find true strength and the real meaning of love and family.
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I absolutely fell in love with Apple Ridge Farm and the motley crew that Luna Wright calls both her employees and family. From the goat in pajamas to ornery birds, I loved the sprawling farm, farm to table cafe, flowers and rescue animals.
Luna Wright will tell you it’s the best home she has ever had. When Silas, the owner, dies and leaves a hefty balloon mortgage, she and her new co-owner, Jameson Hayes, will have to make some tough decisions. The farm is losing money, but Luna is determined.
I loved the meet cute between Luna and Jameson. From the start there were sparks, but when she learns he is the new co-owner and Silas wasn’t exactly upfront about how much the farm was losing, she is seeing red. But she’ll do anything to save the farm. Jameson handles finances for a living and the numbers aren’t adding up, but maybe everything isn’t about the spreadsheets.
I loved the slow-building romance and all the side stories in-between. This was a feel good, pull together kind of story with a heroine you cannot help but root for. Jameson was a worthy hero, and I enjoyed quite a few chuckles, watching him slip into the folds of this unique family.
If your looking for a sweet romance with a dash of heat, lots of laughter and feel good moments, you’ll want to stay indoors and curl up with Bright Spot.
Amazon | Audible
New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras with her family and far too many assorted quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental. Look for Jill’s latest, ONE IN A MILLION, on shelves and e-readers now, and get all her bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/01/the-bright-spot-by-jill-shalvis.html
In Love, Ruthie, author Bonnie MacDougall invites readers to the sun-dappled shores of Sebastian Bay, Florida, where Ruth Lucas, a woman in her thirties, embarks on a reflective journey through her past. Prompted by a poetic inquiry from her lifelong friend, Jane Meyer, in New York, the narrative unfurls the tapestry of Ruthie’s life, tracing her path from her late teens into her early thirties.
This coming-of-age tale weaves through the intricate patterns of Ruthie’s experiences, from navigating the challenges of college roommates and first loves to confronting the deeper currents of grief, career choices, religious considerations, and familial complexities. Throughout her story, Ruthie remains endearingly imperfect, a quality that renders her character both authentic and deeply relatable. Her friend Jane emerges as a steadfast presence, anchoring Ruth through her most tumultuous storms.
MacDougall’s narrative prowess shines as she delves into the flaws and foibles of her protagonist, presenting them not as detractions but as the very elements that draw the reader closer to Ruth. The story navigates through Ruth’s highs and lows, with her support system, particularly Jane and her family, providing a backdrop of unwavering support. The narrative is engaging and the themes of self-discovery and familial bonds resonate strongly. I feel the character of Jane, Ruth’s confidante, leaves the reader curious for a deeper exploration, perhaps hinting at the potential for a companion narrative from Jane’s perspective.
Love, Ruthie is a heartfelt exploration of the journey of growing up and finding one’s place in the world. It will likely appeal to those who appreciate young adult themes, the intricacies of self-discovery, and narratives rich with family dynamics. Bonnie MacDougall has crafted a world where the protagonist’s trials and triumphs reflect the universal quest for personal identity and connection.
Pages: 255 | ASIN : B0CQQ3XZGK
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/16/love-ruthie/
In the dwindling twilight of Roman dominion, Poetic Justice by Fiona Forsyth transports readers to Tomis, a remote outpost at the Empire’s edge, where the esteemed poet Ovid finds himself in exile. Initially dismissive of the locals as mere barbarians, Ovid’s attention swiftly shifts to a more sinister matter: a series of ritualistic murders, eerily escalating from animal to human sacrifices. As the macabre acts begin to mirror the unsettling themes of Ovid’s own verses, he forms an unlikely partnership with Marcus Avitius, the Governor’s advisor, in a bid to unravel the mystery. Together, they delve into the dark underbelly of Tomis, seeking to expose the chilling truth behind the violence.
As the inaugural installment of the Publius Ovidius Mysteries, Forsyth’s novel is an ambitious foray into historical fiction, ingeniously casting the ancient Roman poet Ovid as a central figure in a gripping murder mystery. Against the odds, the narrative captivates with its richly woven tapestry of historical intrigue and literary imagination. Forsyth demonstrates a profound command over the era, bringing Roman life’s societal and political nuances into sharp relief, thus enabling readers to immerse themselves fully in the period.
The depiction of Ovid and Avitius stands out, with both characters meticulously crafted and offering a compelling dynamic. They are supported by a cast of vividly drawn figures, each contributing to the unfolding drama and deepening our understanding of Roman society. Forsyth’s narrative prowess shines through in every element of the book, from the authentic dialogue and well-measured pacing to the underlying tension that simmers throughout, hinting at the lurking dangers in the shadows of Tomis.
Forsyth’s work is a testament to the power of historical fiction, demonstrating an ability to educate about a bygone era and entertain and engage through a story that is as thrilling as it is unlikely. Poetic Justice is a testament to the genre, proving that with enough skill and creativity, even the most obscure historical figures and moments can spring vividly to life, offering readers a window into the past that is both enlightening and profoundly entertaining.
Pages: 283 | ASIN : B0CP9HW9SJ
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/16/poetic-justice/
Dr. Isaiah Varisano’s I Love How skillfully integrates the psychological concept of Growth Mindset Praise, developed by Dr. Carol Dweck, into a practical guide for nurturing children. The book emphasizes the benefits of positive reinforcement and encouragement, advocating for a focus on character traits such as curiosity, kindness, compassion, and perseverance. Rather than measuring success by tangible outcomes, Varisano encourages celebrating the process and effort, fostering a sense of fulfillment in children regardless of the results.
I Love How employs photographs instead of traditional illustrations, showcasing a diverse array of children engaging in various activities. This approach not only adds realism but also allows young readers to see themselves and their peers reflected in the narrative, enhancing the connection between the reader and the content.
Beyond being a mere storybook, I Love How extends its value to parents with a section dedicated to practical tips on implementing the Growth Mindset Praise concept in everyday parenting. These tips range from simple language changes to more comprehensive attitude adjustments, offering parents versatile tools to positively influence their children’s development. Varisano’s work stands out for its effective blend of psychological theory and practical application, making it a valuable resource for both children and parents in nurturing positive character development.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0CLK1CMQW
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/16/i-love-how/
In Crank It Up! Harnessing The Synergies of Team Belief, Dwane Fritz Gerald offers up a unique guide that dives into the complexities of port operations. Readers are invited to journey alongside Aubyn as he evolves from a novice to a seasoned leader, mastering the nuances of management and the art of fostering team spirit through the innovative CRANK IT UP initiative, which notably enhances productivity. While Aubyn’s achievements may not be as widely celebrated as those of figures like Elon Musk, they are equally impressive. His story is one of efficiency and breakthroughs, marked by the morale-boosting Crank It Up prints that adorn helmets and stickers, lifting the spirits of his dedicated team.
Gerald’s narrative style is novelistic, employing a third-person viewpoint that enriches the storytelling with depth and perspective. The book not only offers a window into the operational details and milestones of the shipping world but also celebrates the personal growth and resilience of its characters. Gerald notes, “Aubyn’s presentations had evolved into a highly anticipated part of the weekly management meetings,” highlighting the transformative journey of Aubyn.
While the detailed exploration of port operations might seem daunting to some readers, the book is thoughtfully punctuated with Key Personal Introspection sections at the end of each chapter. These sections distill the core lessons and reflections, offering readers valuable takeaways. Crank It Up! does more than narrate Aubyn’s journey; it illuminates the intricate labor and collective effort that underpin the shipping industry, fostering a deeper appreciation for the often-unseen work behind the products we enjoy. The insights on teamwork and productivity enhancement presented in the book have universal applicability, offering valuable lessons for a wide range of industries beyond shipping.
Crank It Up! Harnessing The Synergies of Team Belief, by Dwane Fritz Gerald, is the perfect read for leaders who want to focus on team dynamics, leadership, and instilling a collective belief in achieving goals amongst their team.
Pages: 73 | ASIN : B0CN63ZMFM
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/16/crank-it-up-harnessing-the-synergies-of-team-belief/
Diana Mercedes Howell’s novel Wishes Are Free: Rose O’Reilly and Grandpa is a delightful blend of magical elements and realistic storytelling. Howell’s narrative style is engaging, painting a vivid picture where the fantastical becomes tangible. Her attention to detail brings characters to life, particularly in the portrayal of the relationship between Rose and her grandfather, which serves as the emotional core of the story.
The book’s narrative is fluid and connects well with readers, gracefully weaving through a series of whimsical events. Howell strikes a fine balance between sentimentality and humor, adding layers to the story that make it both relatable and captivating. This book exemplifies Howell’s adeptness in creating an enchanting story, leaving readers with a sense of anticipation for future works from this gifted author. Howell’s writing is straightforward yet rich, making the book accessible to a broad audience. The focus on the bond between a young girl and her grandfather is a refreshing element in contemporary fiction. This relationship is central to the narrative, guiding the plot through its various twists and keeping the reader engaged. The themes of friendship, love, and coming of age are woven throughout the story, making it particularly appealing to young readers.
Wishes Are Free: Rose O’Reilly and Grandpa is an excellent choice for parents looking for suitable reading material for children. The book’s structure, with its short chapters, is ideal for bedtime stories or as an engaging read for young independent readers. The optimistic tone, endearing characters, and light-hearted humor make it a great pick for family reading sessions. Furthermore, this heartwarming tale is an excellent choice for gifting, suitable for occasions like baby showers. It’s a wonderful read that is sure to bring joy and warmth to its readers.
Pages: 236 | ASIN : B0BFCCJH7H
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/16/wishes-are-free/