Christopher Wheeldon’s most recent full-length ballet opens with a romantic and morbid image. When the curtain rises, thirteen women in white gowns appear standing in a horizontal line. Each bride holds a red rose and wears a mask—a white skull, suggesting the Calaveras Catrinas that appear on the Day of the Dead in Mexico, where […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/01/23/the-universalist-wheeldon/
Ghost Money by Stephen Blackmoore is the fifth audiobook in the Eric Carter series and picks up right where Fire Season left off. Los Angeles is a hot mess and things only get worse when cracks between the dead and the living bring ghosts. Someone is pulling them through, and Eric needs to stop it. Fast-paced, action-packed and downright good.
Ghost Money
by Stephen Blackmoore
Series: Eric Carter #5
Narrator: Rudy Sanda
Length: 8 hours and 38 minutes
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x
The fifth book of this dark urban fantasy series follows necromancer Eric Carter through a world of vengeful gods and goddesses, mysterious murders, and restless ghosts.
The Los Angeles Firestorm killed over a hundred thousand people, set in revenge against necromancer Eric Carter for defying the Aztec god Quetzalcoatl. Carter feels every drop of that blood on his hands. But now there’s a new problem.
Too many ghosts in one spot and the barrier separating them from the living cracks. And when they cross it, they feed off all the life they can get hold of. People die. L.A. suddenly has a lot more ghosts.
But it’s not just one or two ghosts breaking through: it’s dozens. Another mage is pulling them through the cracks and turning them into deadly weapons. Eric follows a trail that takes him through the world of the Chinese Triads, old associates, old crimes. And a past that he thought he was done with.
Carter needs to find out how to get things under control, because if more ghosts break through, there’s going to be even more blood on his hands.
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Audiobooks have become my preferred method of listening to urban fantasy even if I eventually also end up reading them. I had postponed the Eric Carter series for this reason, pushing it further down my to be read pile, so I am delighted Tantor Audio is publishing the series. Rudy Sanda has been narrating the books and does a fantastic job of capturing the personality of necromancer Eric Carter. He also gives voice to the gods, mages, and other characters surrounding Eric. I love the unique voices and he makes listening a pleasure.
Ghost Money revealed a lot about Eric and what he is going through physically from his battles to deals with gods. Things are taking a toll. Eric blames a lot of what is happening on himself.
Events have caused a thinning between our world and that of the dead. Cracks appear and ghosts are slipping through. An encounter with one has Eric realizing someone is pushing them through and turning them into deadly weapons.
All of this has Eric relying on the help of old friends and getting up close and personal with his past. The story that unfolds was tight, action-packed and full of memorable scenes. I devoured this fairly quickly as the story and his motley crew of mages and friends pulled me in.
Fans of urban fantasy, mythology and snarky male protagonists will want to dive into this world.
Amazon | Audible
Stephen Blackmoore is the author of the noir / urban fantasy Eric Carter series (DEAD THINGS, BROKEN SOULS, HUNGRY GHOSTS, and FIRE SEASON), about a necromancer in modern-day Los Angeles.
Rudy Sanda is a versatile actor, singer, voice-over artist, and fight choreographer. He has acted all over the United States and England on the stage and screen, including Laguna Playhouse, Ivoryton Playhouse, the Colonial Theatre, and Ocean State Theatre. Rudy holds a BFA in acting from the University of Rhode Island and received further training at the Beverly Hills Playhouse in Los Angeles and RATA in London. He has been described as a powerful, deeply connected presence bursting with charm and enthusiasm.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/01/ghost-money-by-stephen-blackmoore.html
Heather S. Lonczak, PhD’s The Fragility of Light: A Young Woman’s Descent into Madness and Fight for Recovery presents the poignant story of Sunny, a character grappling with the complexities of mental illness following a series of personal losses. The narrative begins with Sunny’s early years, marked by the loss of her mother—a talented but troubled artist. This loss, coupled with the challenges of adjusting to a stepmother and the eventual death of her beloved grandparents, sets the stage for Sunny’s mental health struggles.
Lonczak’s portrayal of Sunny’s journey through mental illness is both heart-wrenching and insightful. The book delves deeply into the emotional turmoil and psychological challenges Sunny faces. The depiction of her battle with psychosis and her efforts toward recovery offers readers a window into the often misunderstood world of mental health disorders. This aspect of the book is particularly enlightening, shedding light on the reality of living with such conditions and the impact they have on individuals and their loved ones.
One of the book’s most striking themes is the exploration of grief and its profound impact on the human psyche. Sunny’s story underscores the debilitating effects of losing crucial figures in one’s life and the subsequent sense of overwhelming despair. This narrative thread not only adds depth to Sunny’s character but also serves to raise awareness about hereditary mental illnesses. Another significant element of the story is the emphasis on the importance of support systems in the journey toward mental health recovery. The presence of caring and patient individuals in Sunny’s life plays a crucial role in her improvement, highlighting the value of empathy and understanding in such contexts. Additionally, the book touches upon the lasting impact of war on certain characters, illustrating how past traumas can continue to influence individuals long after the events have passed.
The Fragility of Light is a moving and thought-provoking exploration of mental illness, grief, and the resilience of the human spirit. Its honest and sensitive portrayal of these complex issues makes it a valuable read for those seeking to understand the nuances of mental health and the power of human empathy in the face of adversity.
Pages: 446 | ASIN : B0CSMBT8XZ
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/23/the-fragility-of-light-a-young-womans-descent-into-madness-and-fight-for-recovery/
Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes to School, written by A.M. Berkowitz, is a delightful journey into the world of a cheerful piglet named Gigglet. The narrative escorts readers through Gigglet’s school day, encompassing activities like eating lunch, playing, engaging in various school tasks, taking naps, and her eventual return home.
Berkowitz has crafted a narrative that exudes charm and positivity, effectively capturing the essence of Gigglet’s enjoyable experiences at school. The story stands out for its simplicity, making it an excellent choice for beginning readers. The use of rhyming words not only introduces children to the concept of rhyme but does so through easy-to-understand language, enhancing their reading skills.
A significant aspect of this book lies in its illustrations. They are beautifully rendered, drawing the reader into Gigglet’s world in a manner reminiscent of watching an animated cartoon. This visual appeal adds depth to the storytelling, making it a more engaging experience for the reader. As an adult reader, I found Gigglet’s infectious happiness to be a highlight. Her joy resonates throughout the book, creating a pleasant and uplifting reading atmosphere. The illustrations further contribute to this, offering numerous details in each picture that encourage interaction between the reader and young listeners. This feature not only entertains but also serves as an excellent tool for enhancing comprehension and sparking conversations about the story.
Gigglet the Happy Little Piglet Goes to School is a heartwarming tale that effectively combines a simple, engaging narrative with educational elements and captivating illustrations. It is a wonderful addition to the library of any young reader, promising not only an enjoyable reading experience but also an opportunity for learning and interaction between budding readers and their families.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0CCCP6R6L
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/23/gigglet-the-happy-little-piglet-goes-to-school/
4ROCKS: Reduce Effort, Drive Loyalty, Transform the Customer Journey by Sean Albertson emerges as an insightful exploration into the realm of customer service and its pivotal role in business success. With his extensive experience in customer experience, Albertson provides a unique perspective on the value of client relationships, emphasizing the often overlooked importance of customer interaction in newly starting and established businesses.
The book’s distinctive approach, drawing parallels between geological rocks and customer service facets, is its core strength. Albertson skillfully uses the metaphor of sedimentary, metamorphic, igneous, and meteoric rocks to delve into different customer types, offering a refreshing and enlightening perspective. His detailed explanations of geological processes paralleled with customer relations dynamics, are educational and engaging, illustrating the complexities and nuances of customer service. Albertson’s writing style is commendable for its seamless integration of various topics, effortlessly transitioning from geology to customer service.
The book is structured into three well-defined sections, each tackling a different aspect of customer service – from evaluation and embracing change to implementing best practices. This structured approach renders the book particularly useful for those seeking a clear, step-by-step guide to enhancing their customer service strategies. Albertson makes it clear that customer service is not the sole responsibility of a specific department but a collective effort that involves every member of an organization. The metaphorical ‘rocks’ represent the challenges faced in customer service and how these challenges, when navigated skillfully, can lead to customer loyalty and business growth. The book’s practicality is further enhanced by including real-life examples, technical term breakdowns, and personal anecdotes from the author, making it a valuable resource for current professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs.
4ROCKS: Reduce Effort, Drive Loyalty, Transform the Customer Journey excels in imparting crucial business lessons in an engaging and understandable manner, making it an essential read for anyone looking to excel in the field of customer service.
Pages: 255 | ASIN : B0CKBTC7Z3
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/23/4rocks-reduce-effort-drive-loyalty-transform-the-customer-journey/
Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win and How to Design Them is a valuable resource for anyone who prioritizes effective communication. In this insightful guide, Ben Guttmann navigates the reader through the art of expressing oneself, sharing ideas, and fostering connections through simplicity. The book advocates for the power of straightforwardness in various aspects, such as branding, company slogans, and business practices.
Guttmann employs a straightforward, concise style that mirrors the principles he advocates. This approach not only makes the book accessible but also serves as a practical demonstration of his teachings. The structure of the book is thoughtfully organized into two distinct parts, each fulfilling a specific objective. The first part delves into the rationale behind simplicity, exploring its advantages and appeal. The second part is more hands-on, offering concrete strategies and practical examples for implementing simplicity in communication. This section is particularly beneficial for those in marketing, education and anyone seeking to enhance their skills in verbal and written communication.
One of the strengths of Simply Put is its engaging content. Guttmann intersperses solid advice with captivating stories, historical anecdotes, and references to contemporary trends and influential figures. This blend of technical knowledge with an informal writing style makes the book both informative and enjoyable to read. The book’s relevance extends across various fields and professions. It is an essential read for CEOs, marketing professionals, entrepreneurs, advertising specialists, and students. Guttmann’s concise messaging, complemented by thought-provoking quotes at the start of each chapter, adds depth and context to his discussions. Among the many insights offered, the idea that simple messages have a distinctive presence resonates profoundly.
Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win and How to Design Them stands out for its practicality, relevance, and engaging style. Ben Guttmann’s expertise in communication is evident throughout the book, making it a recommended read for anyone looking to refine their communication skills and embrace the power of simplicity.
Pages: 208 | ASIN: B0C3G6ZSLY
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/23/simply-put-why-clear-messages-win-and-how-to-design-them/
Susie’s transition from a distant relationship with the church to becoming a preacher’s wife is nothing short of remarkable. The Rebel and Preacher Man, her memoir, offers an inspiring glimpse into her life alongside her late husband, Russell Adams. Susie candidly shares her journey, beginning with her rebellious youth, filled with a thirst for adventure and a demanding sales job, to her unexpected role as a pastor’s wife. This memoir isn’t just an account; it’s an engaging exploration of Susie’s life, touching on her tumultuous first marriage, her romance with Russell, and the various challenges they faced together, including health issues and adapting to retired life.
The Rebel and Preacher Man stands out for its authentic and uplifting narrative. Susie’s resilience and positive outlook, even in the face of adversity, are genuinely inspiring. Her reflections are infused with encouraging words and biblical insights, reflecting the profound impact of her years spent in ministry. One poignant message from the book is, “Dear Reader, whatever situation you are in, no matter who has wronged you or you them, stay in God’s Word,” a sentiment that resonates deeply and offers guidance for personal conflicts. The book’s engaging prose and thoughtful pace make it a delightful read, enriched with biblical references and insights into the life of a preacher’s family. The anecdotes of Russell’s commitment to discussing God even in his retirement add a charming layer to the narrative.
For those interested in stories of faith, commitment, and the intricacies of a godly marriage, The Rebel and Preacher Man is a compelling choice. Susie’s gift for heartfelt communication makes the reader feel part of a larger community, drawing them into a deep and reflective fellowship with the characters. Her story is not just one to read but to experience and reflect upon.
Pages: 253 | ASIN : B0CNL6FMNL
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/23/the-rebel-and-preacher-man/