Dan M. Mrejeru’s The Making, the Rise, and the Future of the Speakingman offers a captivating exploration of human evolution, focusing on our unique development as a species capable of speech. Mrejeru introduces the concept of ‘speakingman’ to encapsulate the essence of human evolution, a term that becomes increasingly compelling as the narrative progresses. The book begins with examining the anatomical and functional changes in the human brain over millennia, offering insights that extend beyond standard textbook information.

Mrejeru’s treatment of Homosapiens is particularly refreshing, presenting lesser-known facts and perspectives that enhance our understanding of our species. The initial chapter skillfully draws readers into the intricacies of brain development and the evolution of speech. Mrejeru delves into the various factors that have driven human evolution, employing a conversational tone that fosters reader engagement. He poses questions and provides answers in an informative and inviting manner. While the book initially presents as a historical and evolutionary study, it quickly adopts the narrative qualities of a story, making the content accessible and enjoyable. The author’s approach to complex academic concepts is noteworthy for its clarity and simplicity. Mrejeru’s narrative style is unencumbered by technical jargon, making it approachable for both history enthusiasts and general readers. Topics such as human migration from Africa, the development of unconscious processing, and the future of human evolution are addressed with a clarity that demystifies the subject matter. One of the book’s highlights is its discussion on the future of humanity, which is both thought-provoking and rich in statistical analysis. This section showcases Mrejeru’s vision and provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of where humanity might be headed.

The Making, the Rise, and the Future of the Speakingman serves as a journey through our past, offering a deeper understanding of human evolution. It simplifies complex scientific concepts, making them accessible to a broader audience. Readers will come away with a newfound appreciation for human history and evolution, as well as a better grasp of theories such as the survival of the fittest. Mrejeru’s work is akin to a well-stocked grocery store, offering a wide array of knowledge under one roof, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the journey and future of humankind.

Pages: 349 | ASIN : B0CBSX8D4M

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/30/the-making-the-rise-and-the-future-of-the-speakingman/

Kris Stevenn’s novel, The Garden of The Jelly Bean Faeries, introduces readers to Ruby, an orphan whose yearning for acceptance and change leads her into a world where magic and reality intertwine. Ruby’s dream of cultivating a garden and reconnecting with her mother draws her into a friendship with an enigmatic character. As she leans on magic to transform her life, the mystical forces spiral beyond her control, jeopardizing her aspirations. Ruby’s ensuing struggle to rectify the enchantment illustrates her determination to find a place she can call home, while navigating the thin line between dreams and reality. Stevenn skillfully weaves a narrative where the ordinary and the fantastical merge in unexpected and captivating ways.

Ruby’s character is nuanced, as she desires friendship but faces rejection from her schoolmates, leading her to spend much of her time in solitude. The author skillfully balances Ruby’s innocence and determination, creating a character that is both vulnerable and resilient. The emotional depth and vivid portrayal of Ruby’s character make her journey profoundly relatable, resonating with the reader. I appreciated the development of the friendship between Ruby and Tabitha, and it was gratifying to see Ruby find a confidante in Tabitha. The introduction of magic and not to mention of unicorns adds a layer of intrigue and fantasy, though it’s used more as a narrative tool to highlight Ruby’s challenges and growth rather than as the central theme. The unintended consequences of Ruby’s turn to magic provide a compelling twist, showcasing her resourcefulness and her desperation to find a place where she belongs.

The Garden of The Jelly Bean Faeries contains a blend of magical elements with emotional storytelling, making it an inviting read for both fantasy enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The novel shines in its ability to weave a tale that balances magical charm with narrative depth, making it a noteworthy addition to the young adult fantasy genre.

Pages: 370 | ASIN : B0CKHYV7Z1

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/30/the-garden-of-the-jelly-bean-faeries/

In Taylah’s Fury, authored by Paul Richardson, readers are plunged into a world where a simple school break transforms into a harrowing adventure. The story begins as Taylah and her friends embark on a seemingly idyllic camping trip. However, their tranquility is shattered when an unexpected and ferocious cyclone disrupts their peaceful retreat, a startling twist given the clear skies and the fact that it’s not cyclone season.

Richardson masterfully weaves suspense and adventure, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged, eagerly turning pages. The novel excels in depicting the unpredictability of natural disasters and the resilience required for survival under extreme conditions. The portrayal of Taylah’s relationships with her friends is particularly compelling, highlighting their teamwork and history of overcoming challenges. This aspect not only strengthens the narrative but also offers an inspiring depiction of camaraderie in the face of adversity. The fictional narrative is grounded in a realistic portrayal of the impact of natural disasters, adding a layer of depth and significance to the story. What stands out is the focus on character development, especially the dynamics of friendship, which adds a relatable and empathetic angle to the plot. Richardson’s inclusion of nuanced details, such as the adults’ reasons for leaving the children, the Queensland setting, and the authentic dialogue, enriches the narrative, enhancing the thrill and overall enjoyment of the book.

The novel’s exploration of themes and its vivid contextualization are noteworthy. The blend of authenticity and originality in Taylah’s Fury makes it a compelling read, especially for those in the same age bracket as the protagonists. Richardson’s skillful storytelling ensures that Taylah’s Fury is not just a tale of survival against natural elements but also a celebration of human resilience and the strength of friendship.

Pages: 298 | ASIN : B0CM5VH4VL

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/30/taylahs-fury/

Smokey Elvis and Danzick Battle Swamp Ass by Lance Loot emerges as a unique blend of humor and horror, reminiscent in parts of the Sam Raimi Evil Dead trilogy. The novel centers around Smokey, a successful Elvis impersonator content with his life at the Valhalla Trailer Park. This peace is disrupted by the arrival of Danzick, a renowned Danzig impersonator. Their initial rivalry takes a backseat as they face a common enemy: Swamp Ass, a zombie greaser with a notably unpleasant demeanor and poor hygiene.

The narrative constructs a comedic, yet uneasy alliance between Smokey and Danzick, reminiscent of classic buddy team-up movies and television shows. Their dynamic evolves from conflict to cooperation, offering a fresh take on a well-established formula. Loot’s writing style is intentionally bold and humorous, with dialogue that accentuates the novel’s satirical tone. His skill as a satirist shines through, effectively lampooning a wide range of targets. Underneath the novel’s comedic veneer, there are moments of unexpected sincerity, suggesting deeper themes that intermittently surface before being overtaken by the narrative’s predominant humor. These instances add a layer of intrigue to the story, though the novel truly excels when it focuses on the unapologetically farcical nature of its characters and situations.

Smokey Elvis and Danzick Battle Swamp Ass offers an entertaining read for those who enjoy a novel that skillfully combines elements of horror and comedy with a satirical edge. Lance Loot’s creation stands out for its unique character dynamics and a narrative that consistently delivers both laughs and a touch of unexpected depth.

Pages: 73 | ASIN : B0CPCKNZXZ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/30/smokey-elvis-and-danzick-battle-swamp-ass/

The Sunday Post is a blog news meme hosted here @ Caffeinated Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received. Share news about what is coming up on your blog for the week ahead. Join in weekly, bi-weekly or for a monthly wrap up. See rules here: Sunday Post Meme

It was a wet weather week. Lots of fog, melting & refreezing of roads. The ground is still covered in snow. Sophia turned nine and I am still under the weather. Facebook reminded me in “memories” that I have been sick almost every January for the past ten years. How depressing is that? Stay Caffeinated.

Last Week on the Blog

• Hemlock By Kiersten Modglin (audio review)
• Ghost Money By Stephen Blackmoore (audio review)
• Courting Miss Emma By Linda Broday (book review/guest post)
• Just Witched By Dakota Cassidy (audio review)

This Week on the Blog

• Crazy As A Loon By Hailey Edwards (audio review)
• Grim By Amy Boyles (audio review)
• Not Another Roman Holiday By Marilyn Brant (book review/guest post)
• The Tainted Cup (Shadow Of The Leviathan, #1) By Robert Jackson Bennett (audio review)

New Arrivals at the Caffeinated Cafe

Learn more:

• Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder by Kerryn Mayne
• Dead as a Dodo by Hailey Edwards
• Embers in the London Sky by Sarah Sundin

A special thanks to St. Martin’s Press & Tantor Audio

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/01/sunday-post-612.html

Narrated by Stephanie Richardson, Crazy as a Loon by Hailey Edwards is the first in the Yard Birds paranormal women’s fiction series. Hilarious with lots of magic, suspense and mischief, you’ll want to start this series on audio today!

Crazy as a Loon
by Hailey Edwards
Series: Yard Birds #1
Narrator: Stephanie Richardson
Length: 4 hours
Genres: Paranormal Women’s Fiction
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 4.5 cups Speed: 1.5x

Ellie Gleason has protected the town of Samford, Alabama for decades. It’s not as glamours as her glory days as the WitchLight Hub, but it keeps her active during her golden years.

Life is good.

Well, it’s okay.

Fine.

It be bloodier with a smidge more gore, but retirement is meant to be low-key. It’s not like her fragile bones could handle the strenuous hunt for monsters anymore, even if her current duties are dull as dishwater.

But when her great-nephew shows up on her doorstep in tears—or is he her great-great nephew?—begging for help, Ellie straps on her beloved shotgun, Bam-Bam, and gets the coven back together.

Sure, Betty just had a hip replacement, and Flo would rather flirt than fight, and Ida is busy with her anniversary plans, and Joan is…Joan. But Ellie is certain she can whip the girls into shape in time to defeat the creature preying on kids at a nearby summer camp. She might even have them home in time for dinner.

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This was such a fun start to the Yard Birds series featuring retired witch, Ellie Gleason. Ellie lives in and protects the town of Samford, Alabama. It’s not as exciting as her position in the WitchLight Hub. She’d be the first to admit she is bored. All that changes when her great nephew arrives on her doorstep. The tale that unfolds mixes magic, mystery, humor and suspense.

I loved Ellie and her posse. From cursed husbands to forgetfulness, these gals were fun and all business with the mission. I laughed and devoured this in a single evening. While just four hours long, the story did a great job of introducing us to the characters and delivered an interesting mystery affecting the children at a local camp.

With an urban fantasy vibe, lots of snark and elderly characters, this tale will delight fans of humorous fantasy, cozy mysteries, and paranormal women’s fiction.

For fans of Hailey Edwards, you’ll be familiar with Samford, Alabama. These stories took place before Rue, the protagonists in the Black Hat Bureau series, moved there!

Stephanie Richardson narrates and does a lovely job of capturing the characters and tone of the story. I highly recommend listening.

Amazon* | Audible

*kindleunlimited

Reading this book contributed to these challenges:

• 2024 Audiobook Challenge

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/01/crazy-as-a-loon-by-hailey-edwards.html

An Anti-Semite Disrupts a Boy’s Bar Mitzvah—Will Zack Blake Represent . . . the Terrorist!?

Your favorite trial lawyer, Zachary Blake, is back! The ninth installment of the Zachary Blake Legal Thriller Series, finds “The King of Justice” attending the bar-mitzvah of Josh Cooper, his friend Rich’s son. Josh’s special day is interrupted when a bomb explodes, and Josh disappears during the melee. Cooper’s neighbor, Chip Ellis, is also missing. Is this a hate crime?

Police clear the bomb debris with no trace of Josh or Chip. Zack believes the bombing was a distraction for the terrorists’ actual goal. His theory is confirmed when Rich receives a ransom demand for the return of his son. The hostage-takers are alt-right, anti-Semitic, racist, homophobic domestic terrorists. Aside from money, they want their 15 minutes of fame to broadcast their hate-filled manifesto.

Winger Wright, the mastermind of the bombing and hostage-taking, is in no hurry to negotiate a hostage release—he prefers to peddle his bigoted garbage to raise money. But he slips up, and when the FBI rescues the hostages and kills most of the terrorists, Wright cannot be found.
.
One terrorist is captured. Offered a plea deal, he claims Josh was the only hostage. Worse, he chooses a photo of Chip Ellis out of a photo array and identifies the neighbor as the terrorist Winger Wright.

But Josh claims Ellis was a fellow hostage and a source of comfort while the two were held captive. The FBI wants to arrest the neighbor but cannot connect him to the terrorists. The Cooper family is certain Ellis is innocent. He needs a lawyer and Rich recommends his friend Zack Blake who privately believes Chip is guilty.

Zachary, Jennifer, Micah, FBI Agent Clare Gibson, and a fabulous supporting cast return in this taut thriller, the 9th edition of the Zachary Blake legal thriller series.

Is Chip Ellis a good neighbor in the wrong place at the wrong time or is he The Anti-Semite Next Door?

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/29/the-anti-semite-next-door-a-zachary-blake-legal-thriller/

Upon the Pale Isle of Gloam, by Mark Gulino, is a gothic horror novella that introduces readers to Rue, a protagonist shrouded in mystery. Rue awakens on a beach littered with remnants of the sea spanning decades and realizes she has no memory of her past. The only path available leads into a dense forest and further into the heart of the island. This setting, characterized by its persistently gloomy weather and unusually short days, forms the backdrop of Rue’s unsettling journey. As Rue navigates the island, she encounters other individuals who share her amnesiac condition. They are guided by an apparition known as Riel, who instructs them to rediscover their former lives. However, Rue and her newfound companions soon realize they are not alone on this island, hinting at deeper, darker mysteries to be uncovered.

Gulino’s narrative effectively creates an atmosphere of tension and intrigue from the outset. The reader is drawn into the story by questions surrounding Rue’s identity, the enigmatic Riel, and the island’s peculiar inhabitants. The island itself, with its haunting landscape and hidden dangers, adds to the sense of foreboding that permeates the novella. The characters offer a spectrum of personalities, providing points of connection for a diverse range of readers. Each character, despite their memory loss, retains distinct personality traits that contribute to the overall mystique of the setting. The writing style of the novella is intentionally crafted to be vague and mysterious, imbuing the story with a sense of intrigue and encouraging deeper engagement with the text. This stylistic choice invites readers to explore the narrative more thoroughly, often revisiting previous sections to uncover hidden layers of meaning. The amnesia experienced by the characters further enriches the narrative, adding complexity and depth to their personalities and traits, which unfolds gradually, keeping the reader’s interest piqued throughout the story.

Upon the Pale Isle of Gloam offers a compelling foray into gothic horror, weaving together elements of mystery, amnesia, and survival in a setting that is both haunting and intriguing. While the writing style may occasionally obfuscate details, it contributes to the novel’s enigmatic and atmospheric quality, making it a notable addition to the genre.

Pages: 225 | ASIN : B0CJNL1P2T

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/29/upon-the-pale-isle-of-gloam/

Miguel Angel Hernandez’s Twilight Perils offers a riveting anthology of short stories nestled in the horror genre, showcasing a diverse range of characters and narratives. This collection artfully oscillates between suspenseful thrillers, unsettling horror, and intriguing mysteries. Standout stories include “The Forbidden Hunger,” “A Virtual Crisis,” and “Hunting a Nightmare.”

In “The Forbidden Hunger,” readers meet Joshua, who, in his desperation to find a cure for terminal cancer, encounters unforeseen consequences after seeking help from a witch. “A Virtual Crisis” introduces Autumn, a dispirited virtual reality gamer. Her reluctant alliance with a ghost investigator to vanquish an evil spirit adds an intriguing layer to the tale. Meanwhile, “Hunting a Nightmare” offers an intense pursuit, featuring a detective’s relentless quest to apprehend a cunning, sadistic vampire serial killer.

The narrative consistently engages the reader, weaving a dramatic journey where characters must outmaneuver formidable adversaries and overcome harrowing obstacles. The stories evoke a spectrum of emotions, from the despair of victims succumbing to their adversaries to the exhilaration of others fighting valiantly for survival. This emotional journey provokes reflection on one’s own potential for bravery and resourcefulness under similar circumstances. Hernandez’s writing shines in its ability to deliver unexpected conclusions. The pacing is meticulously crafted, building tension and horror that culminates at precisely the right moments. The anthology features an array of iconic monstrous figures — ghosts, vampires, werewolves, among others — each story standing distinct in its portrayal and narrative style.

The fusion of horror and suspense is masterfully executed, making Twilight Perils a compelling read. The book contains mature themes, and as such, I feel it is more suited for an adult audience. For those with a penchant for horror, Hernandez’s collection promises an immersive and thrilling experience.

Pages: 221 | ASIN : B0CPT3VWMJ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/29/twilight-perils-a-collection-of-eight-secret-stories/

Elizabeth’s Mountain, written by Lucille Guarino, weaves a generational tale set against the backdrop of the 1950s—a period marked by conflict, illness, and hardship. The narrative opens with Elizabeth, a character grappling with personal loss during these turbulent times. Following a tragic bus accident, her path crosses with Joseph, a trauma surgeon. Their shared experiences of pain and trauma forge a bond that evolves into a deep friendship and eventually blossoms into an enduring love. The story then shifts its focus to Amanda, Elizabeth’s granddaughter, who is navigating the aftermath of a failed relationship. At a healthcare convention, Amanda encounters Jesse Taylor, a lawyer, sparking a mutual attraction. However, Amanda’s reluctance to compromise her aspirations in the wake of her past relationship threatens this new potential connection.

Guarino skillfully alternates between the perspectives of these two women, eloquently capturing their journeys through love, trauma, and fear. The resilience of Elizabeth and Amanda as they tackle life’s challenges forms the core of the narrative. The parallel drawn between Elizabeth’s past and Amanda’s present is particularly poignant, influencing Elizabeth’s choices about her treasured mountain home. Their male counterparts, Joseph and Jesse, enrich the story with their steadfast support and commitment. The author addresses themes like PTSD and the lingering effects of trauma with sensitivity, bringing depth and authenticity to her characters. Elizabeth’s Mountain seamlessly merges elements of 1950s historical romance with contemporary storytelling, presenting a rich tapestry of love and perseverance across generations.

Guarino’s exploration of enduring relationships through a lens of historical and contemporary romance, coupled with her well-developed characters, makes this book a noteworthy read for those who are drawn to stories that span different time periods and showcase the complexities of life and love.

Pages: 328 | ASIN : B0CPHFWCHF

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/29/elizabeths-mountain-2/