An empty stretch of road hemmed in by high cement walls. The level tarmac shines with dew. A muezzin is heard over traffic. Signs point toward Rachel’s Tomb and Jerusalem. Soon a whirring noise picks up. An old man enters the frame reloading his camera. For some two minutes he moves left and right, forward […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/03/24/saint-josef-koudelka/
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
I finished my antibiotics and still have some funk, but hoping it clears on its own. In the meantime, I ended up in urgent care with a UTI. I am sleeping better and was in bed by 8 pm most nights. I am so glad spring is here, although it’s been cold with rain and snow. Stay Caffeinated.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/03/sunday-post-620.html
Tempting the Sheriff follows a shapeshifting outlaw whose brother’s antics bring her face to face with the sheriff, the man who remains her enemy but is also her lover. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Funny you should ask! I actually write a “making of” post about each of my books on my website. You can find them all here: Anna Lowe Books.
In brief, I loved the legend of Robin Hood and the daring outlaws of Sherwood Forest as a kid. In fact, Errol Flynn was my first crush, way back when. I also loved the Disney cartoon version in which all the characters are animals, and of course the 1991 movie version with Kevin Costner and a somewhat more capable Maid Marian. As with all my favorite books and movies, I “rewrote” those versions in my mind to insert a super-amazing heroine into the action.
Combine that with my love of paranormal romance, and it was natural that my mind drifted in the direction of a shapeshifter version. Being a big fan of Robin Hood doesn’t make me a fan of re-tellings of familiar stories, but I do love reading/watching movies that use familiar elements to set up and then flip expectations. So, that was one of my goals in writing this series: to remind readers of everything they love in Robin Hood and keep you guessing with twists and surprises that take the story in a whole new direction. I hope I succeeded!
Do you have a favorite among your diverse cast of characters?
Well, Robynne, the crafty female archer and fox shifter, is definitely my favorite, and I swoon over Daniel, the dragon/acting sheriff of Nottingham. I also really enjoy the cast of characters as a group, especially in the way the different shifter types play off each other.
In this book, you blend the paranormal romance with historical elements. Was that a challenge?
The main challenge was to weed out terms or language that wouldn’t have been used in the Middle Ages (phrases like “His eyes telegraphed danger”) while keeping the text easy on modern eyes and ears. I did purposely play with some aspects, such as “the modern convenience” of running water available to Nottingham’s townspeople in fountains “just” a few steps away from their homes!
Can you give fans a peek inside Book 2 of the series?
Yes! Like Book 1, Book 2 (Tempting the Outlaw), is a steamy, suspenseful paranormal romance series that combines the humor of The Princess Bride and the action-packed romance of Outlander, offering a fresh new twist on a classic.
Book 2 focuses on Willa Scarlet, whose secret mission takes her to Sherwood Forest where she meets bear shifter John Little. It’s an enemies-to-lovers story, in which all Willa and John have in common are sizzling chemistry, ruthless enemies, and responsibility for a treasure more valuable than either of them suspected. Before they know it, they’re on the run, deep in trouble and in love, even if neither of them is ready to admit it.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
That’s me, Robynne: fox shifter, master archer, and jaded outlaw with a fierce desire to avoid trouble. But when my impulsive brother and his merry band of misfits rob a passing carriage, they set off a chain of events that changes my destiny forever. Too late to stop them, I settle for the next best thing: taking from the rich and giving to the poor.
All well and good, except that puts the new sheriff of Nottingham hot on my trail. Operative word: hot, because unlike his predecessor, Daniel is a muscle- and duty-bound knight/dragon shifter freshly back from the Crusades. One who inspires all kinds of new desires…
As outlaw and sheriff, we’re sworn enemies, though we want the same things: justice for the downtrodden, the return of our rightful king, Richard…and a chance to indulge our wildest, most sizzling fantasies.
But that’s not so simple for us star-crossed lovers. The year is 1193 — an era of scheming princes, greedy warlords, and ruthless shifters. To earn our happily-ever-after, Daniel and I must rely on cunning, fierce fighting, and love that burns hotter than dragon fire.
I’ve never let rules, expectations, or impossible odds stop me…but I have to admit, this will be one hell of a challenge.
(And if you hear a canine growling, that’s my fox side. Challenge accepted.)
SHERWOOD FOREST SHIFTERS
Steamy, suspenseful paranormal romance!
WINNER PNR GUILD AWARD – BEST VAMPIRES & SHIFTERS SERIES!
Book 1: Tempting the Sheriff
Book 2: Tempting the Outlaw
Book 3: Tempting the Maiden
Can Robynne and the sheriff outwit adversaries, uphold justice, and find their happily-ever-after? Find out in this steamy, suspenseful paranormal romance that corrects all theerrors of the Robin Hood legends. If you enjoyed the humor of The Princess Bride and the action-packed romance of Outlander, you’ll love this fresh new twist on a classic, complete with brave knights, cunning bandits, fire-breathing dragons, and forbidden lovers. Get your copy of Tempting the Sheriff today!
Fair warning: No cliffhangers, but this story concludes with a happy-for-now ending, only because the situation in Nottingham doesn’t yet allow more. Robynne and Daniel will get their HEA by the end of the trilogy, once the events of Books 2 and 3 play out. I swear, it will be worth it!
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/24/twists-and-surprises/
The Believer within You follows a twelve-year-old girl interested in investigative journalism who uncovers fraudulent real-estate authorities trying to destroy her community. This is an intriguing setup for a young adult novel that is high in social commentary. What was your goal when writing this novel?
The Believer within You centers on twelve-year-old Brenda Sue Bellamy, a seemingly ordinary 12-year-old living in an ordinary county, who displays gifts making her sharper than most adults around her. Armed with her trusty notebook, Brenda Sue uncovers a fraudulent real estate scheme threatening her friend’s neighborhood.
This gripping narrative serves as an engaging introduction to young adult fiction, infused with rich social commentary and a spotlight on the power of observant youth. When I set out to write this novel in early 2022, my primary goal was to weave an inspirational tale that showcases how even the youngest among us can unearth injustices and inspire change. Brenda Sue, with her keen observation skills and unwavering determination, embodies the spirit of young readers everywhere. Through her adventures, meticulously documented in her trusty notebook, I aspired to empower my audience, showing them that their voices matter and that they possess the ability to confront societal issues head-on. My aim was not only to maintain the interest of young readers but to engage them in a story that balances the gravity of real-world issues with the invincible spirit of youth, paving the way for a narrative that’s as enlightening as it is enthralling.
Brenda Sue is a relatable and inspiring character who draws middle-grade readers into her story. What was your inspiration for their characters’ interactions and backstories?
My inspiration for her character and those interactions comes from a mix of personal experiences and observations on the root causes of poverty and homelessness, particularly in the United States, and how these issues relate to ongoing global financial crises. The Believer within You, while a work of fiction, mirrors realities that are both timely and timeless, suggesting alternative endings with life-changing economic implications for children not just in the United States but globally. Drawing from my nearly 30 years of service as a Master Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, including time within the Judge Advocate General and Naval Legal Service Command, I’ve woven into Brenda Sue’s character the diverse perspectives and stories I’ve encountered. Inspired by my mother, who was raised in poverty yet remained devoted to our family and community, Brenda Sue’s background reflects the resilience and determination of those who face and overcome adversity. My aim was to craft a protagonist embodying strength, empathy, and the drive to effect change.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In crafting The Believer within You, it was important for me to explore themes of hope, faith, and self-belief, alongside the power of community and social justice. These themes are dear to me and, I believe, resonate with readers as well. The narrative emphasizes the transformative power of hope, faith, and belief in oneself to overcome challenges and positively impact communities and the broader world. By illustrating Brenda Sue’s love for her community and her determination to protect it, I wanted to highlight the strength found in unity. Through Brenda Sue’s journey, the book also addresses issues of injustice and corruption, urging readers to advocate for what is right and strive for a more equitable society. These themes of hope, community, and social justice are central to the novel, reflecting my values and aspirations for positive change.
Will this novel be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
While I’m currently exploring ideas for a potential sequel to The Believer within You, I’m also excited about new storytelling opportunities. I’ve received encouraging feedback, especially from my editor, who believes in my potential to contribute meaningfully to the literary world. This encouragement has inspired me to consider further developing this narrative into a series. The Believer within You is more than just a book; it’s a testament to collaborative creativity, brought to life through the exceptional talents of my editor and illustrator. Their contributions have been invaluable in realizing this project.
I hope these responses offer a clear view of the story behind The Believer within You and my motivations for writing it. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be featured on Literary Titan and for your ongoing support. I look forward to engaging further with your platform and its audience.
Author Links: Goodreads | Website
Twelve-year-old Brenda Sue Bellamy uncovers a fraudulent real estate scheme in her friend’s neighborhood and documents it all in her trusty notebook.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/24/confront-societal-issues-head-on/
Risky Business in Rising China is more than a memoir; it is a deep dive into China’s transformative journey from an isolated Communist state to a key player on the global economic forefront. Why was this an important book for you to write?
My career in China over three decades coincided with an extraordinary reform period in which China turned away from class struggle and central planning and implemented market-oriented reforms. During this period, over 800 million people were lifted out of poverty—this is the greatest event in our lives of the last 40 years! I would never have missed it. I knew my business career in China had a type of uniqueness because of the breadth of work I’d done with a variety of new companies in different industries that had emerged in the previously closed Chinese economy. I’d witnessed a complete transformation of that economy from stagnant state-planned to dynamic market-driven. I’d directly experienced the rise of a vibrant private sector that is the key to China’s long-term development. I’d worked alongside Chinese entrepreneurs striving to succeed despite barriers set up to protect the state sector. From my Western perspective, China’s modernization had brought me many opportunities to participate in and contribute to, China’s development. It also had given me great satisfaction observing the liberation of its people from the economic stagnation of the past. And I realized that sharing my experiences as an American businessman in China spanning four decades would not only describe the seismic shifts in that nation’s economy and society but foretell where China is heading in the future. And since China now is the globe’s chief superpower rivaling the United States, the implications for how China’s economy grows, how it pursues its geopolitical aspirations, and how it handles climate change are critical for all humanity.
As a writer, what were some of the specific objectives or targets that you set for yourself while working on this book? What were the key aims that you had in mind, and how did you go about achieving them?
Risky Business in Rising China chronicles my trials, triumphs, and frequent tribulations in a range of industries—from aircraft maintenance to electric-vehicle production, mobile internet to venture capital, lithium-ion batteries to asset trading—managing joint ventures or startup companies within China’s rapidly modernizing economy. I wanted to offer an authentic and unfiltered perspective through the lens of my varied career on China’s historically unparalleled transformation into a global economic powerhouse, as well as a geopolitical competitor of the United States. Chapters illustrate and detail the intricate interplay of forces that have propelled China’s seemingly miraculous ascent. Through candid storytelling and frank observation, I chronicle the exhilarating stages of China’s modernization. I also underscore the factors that may very well sabotage China’s sustained growth—and lead the world’s most populous nation into drastic decline in our lifetime.
What sets this book apart is its ability to deliver not just a compelling narrative but invaluable insights that explain China’s rise (as well as the apparent onset of stagnation). From accurately portraying the intricacies of daily life in China to decoding the nuances of its business environment and culture and the unremitting grip of its central government, Risky Business in Rising China serves as a guide for entrepreneurs seeking to succeed in today’s China. Combining personal anecdotes with insightful analysis supported by documented facts, the book offers a roadmap for navigating the challenges and opportunities inherent in this vibrant market. It also is a valuable read for anyone wishing to understand where China’s economy and society may be heading in the years and decades to come.
What is your background and experience in writing, and how did it help you write Risky Business in Rising China?
This is my first book. My qualifications as an author stem from a career spent deeply immersed in China’s hypergrowth phase, coupled with a breadth of managerial involvement in diverse industries in China’s modernizing economy. Fluent in Chinese, I possess a nuanced understanding beyond language discerning unspoken subtleties crucial in business interactions. I offer readers an engaging and authentic perspective grounded in real-world experiences.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from your book?
The audience for this book is diverse, including individuals eager to elevate their business acumen in China, those seeking an immersive experience of the country, and anyone intrigued by the inner workings of China’s rise. Accessible to professionals, students, and aspiring leaders, Risky Business in Rising China also aims to inspire younger generations to explore the myriad opportunities to study, explore, culturally engage with, or do business in China.
Author Links: GoodReads | Linkedin | Website | Amazon
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/24/authentic-and-unfiltered-perspective/
In Frode Ridna and the Rumbling, author M. Singh delivers a captivating tale set in the royal empire of Azalia, where the protagonist, Frode Ridna, son of the imperial alchemist and a diligent messenger, finds his well-ordered life upended. Initially content in his role, Frode’s worldview is dramatically challenged when he discovers that the people he viewed as adversaries exhibit a moral integrity surpassing that of his leaders. This revelation, spurred by an unlikely encounter with a band of bandits, serves as a crucial turning point in his life.
Singh’s narrative skillfully chronicles Frode’s journey of self-discovery and personal growth. The author’s adept handling of character development is particularly noteworthy, allowing readers to witness Frode’s transformation from a conformist to a more discerning and independent individual. The novel excels in its pacing and cohesive plot structure, creating an immersive experience akin to assembling a well-crafted puzzle. Each character is distinct and intricately developed, contributing meaningfully to the story’s progression. The book engages readers with its blend of realistic characterization and a plot that seamlessly intertwines anticipation with unexpected twists. Singh’s fearless approach to storytelling, coupled with a clear and accessible narrative style, makes the book a compelling read. This fantasy novel, with its brisk tempo and fresh perspective, is highly recommended for those seeking an adventurous and thought-provoking journey.
M. Singh’s talent for creating an enthralling narrative that resonates with readers is evident in this work. The anticipation for future creations from Singh is high, and Frode Ridna and the Rumbling stand as a testament to the author’s storytelling prowess and imaginative vision.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/24/frode-ridna-and-the-rumbling/
Chaos Ascending: A Feast of Betrayal, by R.C. Vielee, emerges as a compelling dark fantasy novel, intricately weaving themes of internal conflict, fate, and the interplay of parallel universes. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and spiritual turmoil, the story unfolds in a world teetering on the brink of collapse. The protagonist, Reyne, is thrust into a treacherous journey through the Void to Evidar, grappling with the burdens of deception and destiny while evading assassins. His story is a reflection of the broader narrative: the struggle of Tartica under Chancellor Tomelai’s oppressive rule and the looming threat of the Devil’s Blacksmith.
Reyne’s character is deftly portrayed, and his inner turmoil echoes the larger societal decay and the tension between conformity and rebellion. This complexity lends him a relatable depth, particularly in his struggles with moral ambiguity and trust, mirroring the human inclination to adapt for survival.
Mithany’s character complements this dynamic, offering a poignant exploration of guilt and honesty amid a web of deceit. The antagonist, known as the Devil’s Blacksmith, injects a palpable sense of dread into the narrative, embodying the despair and dangers lurking within the story’s universe. The juxtaposition of Evidar and Tartica skillfully illustrates the perpetual battle between darkness and light, resonating with the complexities and dualities of real life. Vielee’s novel is notable for its meticulous attention to detail and the seamless integration of sophisticated themes, especially the exploration of physics elements. The characters are crafted with depth and nuance, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with the reader.
Chaos Ascending is more than a fantasy novel; it’s a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition set against a richly imagined world. A highly recommended read for anyone seeking a compelling dark fantasy that will remain with the reader long after the last page is turned.
Pages: 609 | ASIN : B0CTGJW7Y4
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/24/chaos-ascending-a-feast-of-betrayal/