Tracy Kidder’s portrait of a doctor and his homeless patients offers personhood to people many Americans have trained themselves not to see.

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/04/04/sisyphus-on-the-street-rough-sleepers/

The bicentenary of Lord Byron’s death is an opportunity to ask what a witty dandy with the flamboyant attitudes of a raucously chauvinistic age can offer today’s world.

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/04/04/a-hectic-life-byron-a-life-in-ten-letters/

You said I had to sleep in the cage but the smoke alarm went off and wouldn’t stop so I was like fuck this and slept in the other room, whose love seat is hardly better than the cage. But you were pissed. Let us never again begin the day with an argument when I’m […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/04/04/domme-song-8-michael-robbins/

In a past life              I was not defined by his death.…                                  I was not rerouted like a plane through                                      Charlotte.…                                  I was part of a “nuclear family,” the phrasing                                      of which appears first in 1924 as “the nuclear                                      family complex.”…                                  I did not have a complex.…                                  I smiled for the camera.…                                  Love accumulated like debt—mindless, habit- […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/04/04/intention-to-return-callie-siskel/

A gullible new book raises the question of how we should interpret the history of the supernatural in early modernity.

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/04/04/wings-of-desire-they-flew-carlos-eire/

The Book of Ile-Rien by Martha Wells contains books one & two of Ile-Rien series, The Element of Fire & The Death of the Necromancer. These are a revised version and brilliantly told from troubles within the castle court to an embittered nobleman out for revenge. I completely lost myself in this world and stories.

The Book of Ile-Rien: The Element of Fire & The Death of the Necromancer
by Martha Wells
Series: Ile-Rien #1, Ile-Rien #2
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate

Rating:

Collecting Martha Wells’ Element of Fire and Death of the Necromancer for the first time in one place, in a new and revised edition!

From the author of Witch King and the Murderbot Diaries:

Both novels included in this volume have been revised and updated. These are the author’s preferred texts.

The Element of Fire

The kingdom of Ile-Rien lies in peril, menaced by sorcerous threats and devious intrigue, when Kade, bastard sister of King Roland, appears unexpectedly at court. The illegitimate daughter of the old king and the Queen of Air and Darkness herself, Kade’s true desires are cloaked in mystery.

It falls to Thomas Boniface, Captain of the Queen’s Guard, to keep the kingdom from harm. But is one man’s steel enough to counter all the magic of fayre?

The Death of the Necromancer

Nicholas Valiarde is a passionate, embittered nobleman and the greatest thief in all of Ile-Rien. On the gaslit streets of the city, Nicholas assumes the guise of a master criminal, stealing jewels from wealthy nobles to finance his quest for a long-pursued vengeance.

But Nicholas’s murderous mission is being interrupted by a series of eerie, unexplainable, and fatal events. A dark magic opposes him, and traces of a necromantic power that hasn’t been used for centuries abound. Nicholas and his compatriots find themselves battling an ancient evil.

And if they lose? Death would be preferable to the fate that awaits them….

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I enjoy Martha Wells Murderbot series and the City of Bones, so I was delighted to dive into The Book of Ile-Rien. Both stories, The Element of Fire & the Death of the Necromancer, are brilliant but different as well. Both contain magic, suspense, well-drawn characters and take place in the same world.

Elements of Fire – This takes place in a time with castles, kings, royal family and court politics. There is magic, fae, gods, sorcerers and plenty of treacherous characters within the court. We follow the bastard daughter of the king and the Thomas Boniface, Captain of the Queen’s Guard, as they fight to save the kingdom. I found the plot an intriguing one, and the characters pulled me in. This was Wells debut novel and while perhaps polished in this newest edition, it was apparent she’s a masterful storyteller. 4.5 cups of coffee.

The Death of the Necromancer – This was perhaps my favorite, as I was now familiar with the world but also because I picked up on the tie-ins to book one. This read to me like a historical fantasy- mystery as we follow Nicholas Valiarde, a nobleman, thief, and sleuth. He has a reputation of being one of the greatest thieves in the kingdom, and I found him to be clever. He and his crew are on a heist when they stumble upon a dark magic, one that seems to thwart their efforts. All of this leads him to a powerful necromancer who must be stopped and not just for the sake of his activities. 5 cups of coffee.

Whether you are a fan or new to Martha Wells, I highly recommend losing yourself within these stories and world.

Amazon

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/03/the-book-of-ile-rien-the-element-of-fire-the-death-of-the-necromancer-by-martha-wells.html

Hello, World!: A Children’s Book Magical Travel Adventure for Kids Ages 4-8 is a delightful and enriching picture book series that invites young readers and their families on a captivating journey of discovery. Authored by Ekaterina Otiko, this series is a wonderful blend of entertainment, education, and inspiration, ideal for young children and their parents. At the heart of these stories are the titular characters Sophie and Stephie, who lead readers through a series of adventures across the globe. The narrative is not only entertaining but is also designed to spark imagination and creativity in young minds. Including a magical globe, a wise macaw, a playful turtle, and two loyal dogs adds a whimsical charm to the series, making it a hit among younger audiences.

A standout feature of the series is the stunning illustrations by José Gascón. The artwork is both beautiful and engaging, effectively bringing the adventures of Sophie and Stephie to life in a vibrant and visually appealing manner. The illustrations play a crucial role in the storytelling, making the book a reading adventure and a visual feast. Otiko introduces young readers to different cultures, geographical wonders, and global curiosities. The author creatively educates without overwhelming, making learning about the world an enjoyable and memorable experience. This aspect makes this book particularly valuable for parents seeking to combine reading time with educational content. The book is family-friendly, offering an opportunity for quality bonding time. Parents and children can explore the book together, making it a shared experience that is both enjoyable and beneficial for all.

Hello, World!: A Children’s Book Magical Travel Adventure for Kids Ages 4-8 by Ekaterina Otiko is more than just a picture book series; it’s a gateway to a world of adventure and learning. Its blend of imaginative storytelling, beautiful illustrations, and educational content makes it a must-have for families looking to embark on a journey of exploration and fun. This series is sure to create cherished memories and inspire a love for reading and learning in young children.

Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0CLKYZVXQ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/14/hello-world/

HAVAH is a story about an AI achieving sentience and its impact on the lives of those it touches. Many fear the day of its arrival, but what if it could feel love and compassion? In this riveting tale, we trace the creation of such an entity from its inception as a virtual existence to its full embodiment as it navigates the intricacies of what it means to be a human, not only in its relationship with the characters in the story but also the hard choices it has to make to define and realize its own humanity.

Author NG Keng Tiong skillfully portrays the combat scenarios involving STRATOS, imbuing them with a sense of immediacy and realism that is both thrilling and immersive. These scenes are not just about physical battles but also delve into the tactical use of futuristic technology, setting the stage for a high-octane reading experience. At the heart of the narrative is HAVAH, the AI entity. The character of HAVAH is intricately crafted, offering a nuanced look at artificial intelligence. Her evolving understanding of human emotions and experiences is not only central to the plot but also offers thought-provoking insights into what it means to be sentient. The interactions between HAVAH and the STRATOS team, in particular the connection with its creator David Friedman, are portrayed with depth and sensitivity, which adds a rich emotional layer to the novel.

The author delves into topics such as AI consciousness and human augmentation, raising pertinent questions about the future of humanity and technology. These themes are interwoven seamlessly into the narrative, making the book both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. Character development is another strong point of HAVAH. Each character is well-fleshed out, with their backstories and motivations adding layers to the narrative. This depth ensures that readers are invested not just in the outcome of the story but in the journeys of the characters themselves. The conclusion of the novel is both climactic and satisfying, tying together the various plot threads in a manner that is both exciting and emotionally resonant. The inclusion of an epilogue and author’s note adds a personal touch, offering insights into the creative process behind the novel.

HAVAH is a remarkable military fiction novel that is sure to resonate with fans of science fiction and action genres. Its blend of exhilarating action, deep emotional storytelling, and thoughtful exploration of human-AI relationships makes it a standout novel.

Pages: 256 | ASIN : B0CTCMYR2S

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/14/havah-a-love-that-transcends-the-metaphysical-realm/

In Not On My Watch: A Beloved Prison Warden’s 30-Year Fight For Justice In The Prison System, author and former prison warden Bob Hatrak shares his experiences at Rahway State Prison, a maximum-security facility in East New Jersey. Hatrak, known for his compassionate approach, illustrates the power of empathy and reform in the often harsh environment of the penal system. His commitment to the well-being and rehabilitation of incarcerated individuals shines throughout the narrative.

Hatrak’s journey is not just a tale of managing a prison but a deeper exploration of personal growth and the impact of life choices. The book delves into how Hatrak’s own experiences of overcoming adversity shape his empathetic approach to prison administration. This personal touch adds a rich layer to the narrative, making the reader appreciate the complexities of his role as a warden. One of the book’s most compelling aspects is Hatrak’s advocacy for self-rehabilitation, a theme that resonates with those who believe in second chances and the potential for transformation. Hatrak’s belief in the power of vocational training programs as a tool for rehabilitation is particularly noteworthy. The reader is introduced to groups like the Escorts and the Lifers, whose stories exemplify the positive outcomes of such initiatives.

Hatrak’s entrepreneurial spirit in pushing for progressive prison reform is both enlightening and inspirational. His story is not just about managing a prison but about humanizing it, making Not on My Watch a significant read for those interested in criminal justice reform and personal stories of resilience and compassion. The book is recommended for readers seeking insight into the world of prison administration and the transformative power of empathy and progressive thinking in a challenging environment.

Pages: 322 | ASIN : B0CW2WVM9X

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/14/not-on-my-watch-a-beloved-prison-wardens-30-year-fight-for-justice-in-the-prison-system/

The Believer within You, by Tyrone Burnett, artfully combines a sense of realism with the innocence and determination of youth. Readers are introduced to Brenda Sue Bellamy, a twelve-year-old unexpectedly drawn into the complex world of local politics and societal challenges. Burnett’s protagonist embodies a unique juxtaposition of youthful naivety and a mature understanding of social and economic issues, providing a fresh perspective on the intricacies of life.

Set against a backdrop of poverty and homelessness in Pamunkey County, Florida, the story explores deep societal issues through Brenda Sue’s eyes. Her journey transcends the traditional boundaries of storytelling, offering not just an engaging plot but also serving as a catalyst for a societal awakening. Themes of homelessness, economic disparity, and the power of individual belief are woven seamlessly into the narrative, urging readers to reconsider their understanding of social responsibility. Burnett’s writing is both informative and emotionally resonant, creating a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is heart-touching.

The addition of vivid illustrations throughout Burnett’s book further enriches the reader’s experience, providing a tangible connection to the characters and their environment. This approach not only enhances the storytelling but also underscores the book’s themes, making The Believer within You a compelling and insightful read for those interested in social issues and the impact of individual agency.

The Believer within You stands out as a poignant and impactful narrative that skillfully blends youthful perspective with complex societal themes. Tyrone Burnett has crafted a story that is not only engaging but also serves as a powerful commentary on social issues such as poverty, homelessness, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Pages: 82 | ISBN: 979-8-218-96839-7

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/14/the-believer-within-you/