In 496 CE a giraffe arrived at Constantinople. It was a rare event. The exotic animal was brought by ambassadors from the distant south, possibly from Nubia (a kingdom on the Nile roughly coextensive with modern Sudan). It had lingered on its way at Gaza (then, in more fortunate times, a rich entrepôt between the […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/02/08/charged-wonders-africa-and-byzantium/
for Paul Auster Days emptied out along the hairlinecracks where you spilled the glossy oilwhere you stopped resemblance from looking,where your thoughts, if they were thoughts,ghost things of the mind, dream things of the night,fell down and down to the last rock under the pile,the final colorless span, making no sound or onlythe sound that […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/02/08/war-zone-ann-lauterbach/
So-called feminine hygiene products are self-effacing by design. Imperceptibility—the “no feel protection” advertised by Always pads, the “made to go unnoticed” tagline of Tampax—is the gold standard, or at least the chimerical promise, of the various absorbent or fluid-capturing products put in or near vaginas on days when effluent from the uterus is expected. Devices […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/02/08/month-to-month-period-the-real-story-of-menstruation/
Ed Atkins’s Pianowork 2 is a sixteen-minute computer animation that involves an uncannily realistic digital avatar of Atkins playing Jürg Frey’s minimalist piano composition “Klavierstück 2.” (I saw Pianowork 2 at the Gladstone Gallery late last year, and it will presumably be included in the Atkins exhibition that the Tate Britain is planning for 2025.)1 […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/02/08/the-pain-artist-ed-atkins-with-steven-zultanski/
Ralph Waldo Emerson was endlessly seeking his ideal writer, who was “part and particle of God,” as he wrote in Nature (1836). So it comes as no surprise that in the spring of 1838 he embraced the poet Jones Very, a twenty-four-year-old Greek tutor studying at the Harvard Divinity School, and soon hailed him as […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/02/08/the-voice-of-unfiltered-spirit-jones-very/
Lori Foster is an author whose romantic suspense stories and characters pull me. She delivers perfect escapism reads. The Fearless One shares Memphis Osborn’s romance when he meets Jedidiah “Diah” Stephens and her faithful dog. You’ll want to snuggle up for this story of romance, suspense and new found friendships.
The Fearless One
by Lori Foster
Series: Osborn Brothers #2
Genres: Romantic Suspense
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Heat Level: 
He had it all planned…until she showed up.
Jedidiah Stephens came to the Colorado Rockies for one to uncover the truth behind the fire that killed her family. She’s been chasing down clues, and everything has led her to an isolated campground. Her plan is to get a job there so she can investigate who comes and goes. Getting involved with her boss, Memphis Osborn, the ruggedly handsome groundskeeper, is definitely not part of the plan.
When Jedidiah arrives on the scene, Memphis just knows she’s up to something. He can see the desperation in her eyes and warily agrees to hire her. As they work side by side, Diah triggers his deepest protective instincts—and the chemistry between them ignites.
But the more Diah digs into her family’s past, the more secrets she unravels…and the more afraid she becomes. She lost everything once before. She’ll never forgive herself if now she loses Memphis, too.
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While The Fearless One is the second novel in the Osborn Brothers series and contains its own suspenseful story & romance, it could technically be read on its own. You’ll get minor spoilers about previous characters/couples and villains. I, however, recommend reading them in order, since I enjoyed them both.
Memphis has bought a camp ground and has a plan to clean up the area, so he is shocked to find Jedidiah “Diah” Stephens and her dog staring at him while he uses the outdoor shower. Even more so when he discovers his brother & his new wife sent Diah for a job. I adored the meet cute and was already grinning as Memphis accepted his fate and showed her to a cabin.
Diah has nothing but the backpack she carries, her dog, and a lot of secrets. She isn’t her just for the job. This campground might hold the answers to why her family was killed. Of course, Memphis has his own share of secrets, like the reason he opened this campground and what he intends to catch with it.
The tale that unfolded delivered a slow-burning, pretend couple romance with plenty of suspense, new and old characters. Some from the first Osborn book and some from the McKenzies of Ridge Trail series. (one of my favorite series by Foster)
As Diah and Memphis get to know each other, they slowly open up, but they’ll need to be more forthcoming for their relationship to grow and to stop the danger that is closer than they think.
Secondary characters added to the tale from humor to suspense. There were also hints of a second romance and I hope Foster explores it. As is true of all the Foster books I’ve read, I closed this book with a smile.
Amazon | Audible
Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martin’s, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain, and Berkley/Jove. She is currently published with HQN.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/01/the-fearless-one-by-lori-foster.html
In Sooo…How was your day? Brenda Hammon invites readers into a series of personal anecdotes that span various facets of her life, including everyday experiences, vacations, horse shows, and even the development of her farm. Hammon’s storytelling is marked by a distinct perspective, offering more than the typical narrative and encouraging readers to see beyond the conventional black and white.
One notable tale involves her Anglo Trakehner gelding, Arion. Hammon’s portrayal of Arion’s personality and their dynamic is both amusing and relatable. She vividly recounts an incident where Arion, seemingly aware of his own charm, reacts to his discontent by flicking his tail to comically smack Hammon in the face. This description is so visually compelling that it provokes a genuine laugh as if the reader were witnessing the scene in person. Another memorable episode occurs during a family vacation to Mexico. Hammon’s first snorkeling experience turns comical as she grapples with her discomfort underwater. Her vivid description of panic and the humorous way she reacts to the sensation of being submerged paints a clear, entertaining picture. The narrative also takes a turn towards the absurd with a story about a neighbor’s donkey named Willy. Hammon’s humorous recounting of her attempts to chase Willy off her property, armed with nothing but a quad bike and a lunge whip, ends in an unexpected and humorous tumble. This story, like the others, unfolds with a sense of immediacy and humor that places the reader right in the midst of the action.
Sooo…How was your day? stands out not just for its humor but for the way Hammon brings readers into each scene, making them feel like active participants in her adventures. This book is a delightful read for anyone seeking a lighthearted and genuinely funny narrative journey. Brenda Hammon’s skill in weaving humor and vivid storytelling makes this book a refreshing and enjoyable read.
Pages: 240 | ASIN : B0932LDS53
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/19/sooo-how-was-your-day/
In Auditory Viewpoint, Lillian R. Melendez’s narrative centers around Gloria, a sharp and perceptive radio presenter whose blindness doesn’t hinder her dynamic career. The story escalates when Gloria’s sister, Anna, falls victim to cybercrime, leading to a harrowing journey through identity theft and its dire consequences. As the plot thickens, a dangerous killer emerges, putting both sisters’ lives at grave risk.
This thriller not only delves into the chilling world of cybercrime and identity theft but also poignantly explores the profound bond between siblings. Gloria and Anna’s unyielding support for each other, especially in times of dire threat, is a testament to the enduring power of family ties. Their story is a suspenseful journey as they navigate the treacherous waters of criminal hackers with the assistance of Benjamin Taylor, an acquaintance whose role becomes increasingly significant.
Melendez’s novel serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of sharing personal information online, highlighting the potential for catastrophic misuse. While the narrative’s pace is brisk, I feel it may leave readers longing for more time to savor the finer details. The storyline effectively maintains suspense and develops characters that resonate with authenticity. The relationship between Gloria and Anna is particularly compelling, offering a heartfelt portrayal of sisterhood under siege.
This is the perfect book for those drawn to suspenseful fiction featuring strong female protagonists. Auditory Viewpoint presents a blend of excitement and social commentary. It’s a reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in our digital age, wrapped in a story of resilience and familial loyalty.
Pages: 262 | ASIN : B01A9ZFHEO
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/19/auditory-viewpoint/
Wish of the White Tiger, authored by Joseph Harkreader, emerges as a compelling narrative set in the mystical realm of Mèngjìng. This ethereal sanctuary, resplendent with luxury and excess, is governed by formidable rulers. The story follows Baihu, an elite guard who harbors aspirations of freedom and love. His life takes an unexpected turn when he stumbles upon a mystical golden lamp, which, upon a gentle touch, releases a white light and summons a Genie from another world, ready to grant Baihu’s deepest wishes.
Set against the backdrop of a world teetering on the brink of disaster, Baihu’s story weaves a delicate balance between personal desires and the looming threat posed by a tyrannical ruler. Harkreader’s narrative style is a fusion of magical realism and detailed world-building, creating a vivid and tangible universe that engrosses readers with its authenticity and rich imagery. The story is an invitation to a bygone era, adorned with emperors, cherry blossoms, and samurais, and is underscored by a keen eye for detail.
Central to this tale is Baihu, a character whose depth and complexity captivate the reader’s imagination. His journey from a lowly guard under the Ming Dynasty to a figure challenging his destiny is both moving and profound. Baihu’s character development is skilfully portrayed, reflecting a natural progression as he grapples with the harsh realities of his world and the possibility of achieving freedom and love.
A notable aspect of Wish of the White Tiger is its exploration of a male-to-male relationship, presented not as a mere subplot but as a pivotal element of the story. Harkreader approaches this theme with sensitivity and depth, offering an authentic and inclusive portrayal of love in its many forms. The book’s strength lies in its immersive world-building and the seamless blend of fantasy and historical elements. Baihu’s character serves as a compelling focal point, encouraging the reader to invest emotionally in his journey. The resolution of the love story is both satisfying and impactful, underscoring the narrative’s overall success.
Joseph Harkreader’s Wish of the White Tiger is a standout novel for readers who appreciate a blend of fantasy and historical elements, and for those who value diverse and nuanced portrayals of relationships. It is a story that remains with the reader, resonating long after the final page is turned. This novel is more than just a tale; it is an experience that invites readers into a world both enchanting and profound.
Pages: 348 | ASIN : B0CN3W6PCW
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/19/wish-of-the-white-tiger/
L. Waithman’s Blood Ties (The King’s Chosen) is a young adult fantasy novel that weaves the tale of Lucas, a blacksmith’s son, whose life is inextricably linked to a mysterious ancient prophecy. This prophecy speaks of two kings and the fate of their kingdom, setting the stage for a story rich in medieval fantasy elements. Lucas, initially aspiring to join the king’s army, faces a life-altering moment when his father is tragically murdered. This event leads him to the guidance of warrior monks, including Father Ansann, at a local monastery. Here, he is groomed and educated for a destiny far greater than he ever imagined.
Set against a backdrop reminiscent of medieval times, the novel offers a setting that will likely resonate with enthusiasts of this genre. While starting at a measured pace, the narrative gradually accelerates, drawing readers into Lucas’ journey. This transition creates an engaging and dynamic reading experience. As Lucas endeavors to understand his true identity and navigate the perils surrounding him, the story explores themes of self-discovery and resilience. Lucas’ character, at times, reflects the impetuousness of youth, which may particularly appeal to middle-grade and young adult readers. However, the novel’s appeal is not confined to this demographic, as adults may also find its themes and narrative engaging. The character development, particularly of Lucas, might seem limited in places, yet the plot remains compelling and keeps readers invested. One of the book’s strengths is its educational undercurrent, imparting valuable lessons about confronting fears and the journey of self-growth.
Blood Ties is crafted with a narrative that stays with the reader, leaving a lingering impact. As the book concludes, it subtly sets the stage for future installments, promising more of Lucas’ enthralling adventures.
Pages: 344 | ASIN : B09V3GC8NP
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/19/blood-ties-the-kings-chosen-book-1/