I was super excited to dive into First Contact by Kim Harrison. This is the first audiobook in the Eclipsed Evolution trilogy released on audio first. Narrated by Xe Sands, Harrison explores our first contact with a paranormal realm. A riveting story that fed my inner nerd with rich characters. I cannot wait for more!

First Contact
by Kim Harrison
Series: Eclipsed Evolution #1
Narrator: Xe Sands
Length: 5 hours and 27 minutes
Genres: Science Fiction
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x

In the wake of the solar eclipse, a portal between our world and a paranormal realm opens—and a scientist’s life will never be the same, in this thrilling serialized adventure from the New York Times bestselling author of The Hollows.

Dr. Renee Caisson knows there are worse things than an attractive man in uniform drafting her into a secret government project—especially when Major Jackson makes it clear that he isn’t bothered by her questionable past. But when her labs come back with decidedly odd results, the Major is forced to come clean over who the government is actually studying. Renee is shocked to learn her subjects are demonic-looking beings who call themselves “Neighbors”—refugees from a dying world, who arrived during the nation-wide solar eclipse.

The Neighbors’ technology is unlike anything Renee’s ever encountered. At first, she dismisses an injury that inexplicably heals as “just one of those things”. And surely August, the most gregarious Neighbor, begins to speak English overnight because of the team linguist’s skills?

Not until August begins evolving in real time to withstand Earth’s brighter, dryer atmosphere does she admit that the Neighbors’ “tech” feels less like science and more like magic—the same magic that brought them here in the first place, and the same they’re trying to rekindle with a mysterious labyrinth in order to return home and save their world.

At least, that’s what August claims they came for…

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Wow, this was fantastic. Harrison not only introduced us to a paranormal alien species, but shared the sharp contrast between scientists and military reactions and attitudes.

At just under six hours, this was a tight, engaging tale. We meet Dr. Renee Caisson, who is studying the “Neighbors,” for contagions that might impact humans. I immediately liked Renee, who admits to a questionable past. She quickly comes to understand and respect these intelligent creatures, who only wish to find plants to save their planet. I loved watching them interact with each other as Renee attempts to communicate.

The Neighbors are highly intelligent, with abilities beyond our scope and are not aggressive. In contrast, the military has them caged, and are performing tests. There is a romance, but it is secondary to the story. It involves humans and added layers to the characters. I would say it is character driven story, as the focus is Renee’s engagement with the leader of the Neighbors.

Xe Sands is a wonderful narrator, and I quite enjoyed her voices and tone. This is an audio first trilogy, the books won’t release until summer.

Amazon | Audible

Reading this book contributed to these challenges:

• 2024 Audiobook Challenge

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/04/first-contact-by-kim-harrison.html

Thomas Bauer’s novel Hattie’s World unfolds in a small California fishing village, offering a deeply engaging exploration of familial legacy and personal resilience. Central to this narrative is Owen Winthrop, an ambitious and ruthless figure whose pursuit of power disrupts the lives of local fishermen and businesses.

Bauer artfully captures Owen’s journey from a dishonored family member to a powerful, controlling patriarch. Amidst this oppressive environment, the character of Hattie Winthrop stands out. Despite living under her father’s domineering shadow, Hattie’s indomitable spirit and quest for independence shine through. Bauer eloquently portrays her as a symbol of hope, steadily emerging from a marginalized figure to one of reverence and influence.

The novel meticulously details the complexities of a community entangled in conflicts of greed, affection, and the lasting impact of familial choices. Bauer’s writing excels in depicting Hattie’s growth and her journey toward rectifying her father’s wrongs, delving into themes such as forgiveness, the significance of empathy, and the potential for redemption. Hattie’s acts of kindness and generosity are especially poignant, redefining her town’s destiny and presenting a new paradigm of leadership and compassion.

Hattie’s World is a thoughtfully crafted story that leaves a lasting impression with its richly drawn characters and exploration of human nature’s multifaceted layers. Bauer’s narrative prowess provides a deeply immersive reading experience which makes the novel a compelling choice for those who appreciate character-driven stories set against the backdrop of societal and personal transformation.

Pages: 263 | ASIN: B0CVQS4DS3

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/08/hatties-world/

In A Woman’s Persuasion, Jeanette Watts invites readers into the world of a wealthy and privileged family, centering the narrative around Anne, a character who courageously forges her own path, diverging from her father’s expectations. The patriarch of this affluent family, a notable financier, has set stringent standards, particularly emphasizing the importance of appearances. Anne’s decision to stray from her father’s prescribed course propels her into a journey filled with romance, complexities, and unforeseen developments.

The author skillfully intertwines a traditional contemporary romance style with historical elements, set against a backdrop of modern sensibilities. Anne is a compelling protagonist, relatable in her endeavors and choices, even to those from less privileged backgrounds. The narrative flows seamlessly, drawing the reader into the intricate dynamics of the family and the nuanced challenges of their societal position.

This emotionally resonant novel is a thoughtful exploration of romance and is replete with family tensions, the allure of forbidden love, and unexpected turns. The author’s direct yet richly descriptive storytelling is captivating and offers a clear and enjoyable journey through the story. Her ability to vividly portray scenes and craft multifaceted characters, all while delving into their histories and internal struggles, is one thing I particularly enjoyed about this book.

A Woman’s Persuasion is a compelling read for enthusiasts of both historical and modern romance. The story merges themes from these genres, creating an engrossing narrative. Its well-crafted character development and intriguing dilemmas make it a captivating book that is hard to put down. I recommend this novel to those seeking an engaging blend of romance and character-driven storytelling.

Pages: 164 | ASIN: B07ZR8165R

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/08/a-womans-persuasion/

The Witching Hour: Remember When… by Jay Wheeler is a captivating novel that gracefully transitions through various artistic forms. It begins as a poem, evolves into a ballet, and ultimately culminates in a two-book series. This book presents a compelling narrative centered around the protagonist, Patricia, her brother, and their friends as they encounter a haunted house. Driven by a daring challenge, their story swiftly transforms into a chilling tale of supernatural encounters.

Wheeler masterfully intertwines Patricia’s harrowing experiences in the haunted house with her mother’s past encounters with the enigmatic Witching Hour—a mystical time where children’s wishes take on unforeseen manifestations. This intriguing plot device lends a unique twist to the story, weaving a generational saga highlighting the complexities of family histories and the unpredictable nature of desires and their consequences. Set against a backdrop filled with eerie occurrences, the novel explores profound themes such as choice, destiny, and the ramifications of decisions made in extraordinary situations. These elements are handled with a deft touch, avoiding heavy-handed exposition and instead allowing the reader to immerse themselves in the narrative’s rich atmospheric details. While the story concludes with a blend of resolution and unanswered questions, it underscores the haunting and lasting impact of the Witching Hour. This approach ensures that the tale lingers in the reader’s mind, pondering the mysteries and lessons woven throughout the narrative.

Jay Wheeler’s The Witching Hour: Remember When… is a thought-provoking and well-crafted novel that offers a fresh perspective on supernatural fiction. It invites readers to engage with its plot and reflect on the deeper implications of the story’s themes.

Pages: 97 | ASIN : B0CP964WC4

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/08/the-witching-hour-remember-when/

In Rainforest Rescue, readers are introduced to Cleo, a lively tiger cub whose curiosity leads him on an unexpected journey. Cleo’s playful pursuit of a butterfly draws him deep into the rainforest, away from the safety of his family. This simple yet captivating premise sets the stage for a story rich in adventure and gentle life lessons.

The narrative’s strength lies in its depiction of Cleo’s innocence and exuberance. His interaction with the butterfly not only showcases his playful nature but also serves as a catalyst for the unfolding adventure. This incident subtly underlines the theme of unintended consequences of one’s actions. As Cleo finds himself lost, the story shifts to a narrative of self-discovery and the importance of seeking help when needed.

The introduction of Matu, a knowledgeable red-knobbed hornbill bird, marks a turning point in the tale. Matu’s character is not only a guide back to Cleo’s family but also a symbol of unexpected friendship and wisdom. The dynamic between Cleo and Matu enriches the story and illustrates the value of camaraderie and trust, especially with those different from ourselves. One thing I enjoyed about this book is its emphasis on the theme of assistance and interdependence. It shows young readers that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. This message is particularly impactful for its target audience, fostering a mindset that values cooperation and mutual support.

The illustrations play a crucial role in enhancing the reader’s experience. The vivid and engaging illustrations complement the narrative beautifully, making the rainforest and its inhabitants come alive on the pages.

Rainforest Rescue is a journey through important life lessons wrapped in a colorful and engaging package. It’s a delightful picture book for young children, offering both entertainment and gentle education. This children’s book is a fantastic choice for parents and educators looking to introduce themes of friendship, diversity, and the importance of asking for help in an engaging and accessible way.

Pages: 52 | ASIN: B0CVF6N6M6

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/08/rainforest-rescue/

RhinoRAM: Your Friendly Neighborhood Cybersecurity Protector! follows a guardian angel, RhinoRAM, who has made it his mission to teach children about cybersecurity. What inspired you to write this children’s book?

I’m part of the micro-generation of Millennials born between 1987-1992. I grew up with and without the Internet and graduated from high school as the social media wave crested. I’ve has always had a fascination with computers and the impact of technology on society. As a security professional, I hav extensive experience thinking strategically about physical dangers and policy solutions. But in today’s world, digital dangers deserve just as much attention as physical dangers. Spending time with my five-year old goddaughter Rosalie, I noticed that whenever she took my phone to play with it, she knew how to navigate it much better than he expected. And this pushed me to think: who is talking to her about cybersecurity and dangers on the Internet? Currently, there are not any comprehensive products, educationally focused or not, designed to teach those 12 and under about cybersecurity. This represents a critical gap for the future of learning and for current domestic infrastructure, national security, and foreign policy implications. Inspired by this, I created RhinoRAM. RhinoRAM represents a prime opportunity to teach youngsters about cybersecurity and its impact on the globe.

The art in this book is fantastic and brings the concepts and story to life for children. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator LaTosha Maddox?

Working with Tosh was one of the best parts of bringing this book to life. I met her at a local artist market in Baltimore, MD and bought one of her original paintings. She did an awesome rendition of the ancestral plane from Marvel’s 2018 film Black Panther and it hangs over my desk. When I began thinking about illustrating RhinoRAM, I looked at the painting and immediately contacted her. I also spoke with several illustrators that I found from folks in my network and on social media. But Tosh was the clear choice. It was very important to me that someone who looked like me would help me bring the character and concept to life. Tosh had never illustrated a book before so we were deliberate about meeting periodically to discuss my vision and I encouraged her to take artistic freedom in creating the pages. We worked on the book in four stages, knocking out a quarter of the book at a time. As you stated, her illustrations are fantastic and I am still blown away with how vibrant the pages are. 

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

Cybersecurity basics is an area that does not have many resources for young Internet users. I chose animals, speficially rhinos as they are my favorite land animal, to make it easy for young Internet users to grasp the concepts. Understanding what the Internet is and why learning protective measures are necessary is repeated with the three main lessons of the book. Digital literacy and resiliency are crucial for any young Internet user to know, especially those from marginalized popoulations where folks are often the most vulnerable on the Internet. 

Is this the first book in the series? If so, when will the next book be released, and what can your fans expect in the next story?

Yes, this is the first book in a series. I am working on the text for the second book. And thankfully, Tosh has already agreed to illustrate the next book so we will keep her amazing artwork coming in book #2. I don’t know how many books we will do, but I would like to have at least four. I have drafted curriculum documents to accompany the book and have already piloted it at several Washington DC public schools and conducted live reading events with an organization called Protect Us Kids. 

Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Website | Feature in The Southwester

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/08/the-future-of-learning/