In the early morning hours of March 26, emergency workers in Baltimore received a mayday call from the Dali, a 985-foot container ship. Shortly after setting sail from the city’s port, the vessel had lost power, and with it control over its engine and navigation instruments. It was on course to hit the Francis Scott […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/04/09/shippings-shadow-world/
Jo Livingstone and I first met at the Oxford Wine Café, a dingy spot just outside Oxford’s city center, in 2018. We had the most engrossing conversation two people have probably ever had about the medieval English mystic Margery Kempe, and how a critic can make old works of literature sing for a contemporary audience. […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/04/09/into-the-cave-jo-livingstone/
Dannika Dark is an autobuy here at Caffeinated. The Thief narrated by Nicole Poole is the fourth audiobook in the Black Arrowhead series. We are back with the pack, and this time we learn about Mercy Breedlove and Bear. You won’t want to miss this forbidden romance.
The Thief
by Dannika Dark
Series: Black Arrowhead #4
Narrator: Nicole Poole
Length: 10 hours and 35 minutes
Genres: Paranormal Romance
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Heat Level: 
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x
Loving her in secret was becoming his new favorite thing.
The latest installment in the Black Arrowhead series will keep you up all night!
Mercy Breedlove is hardworking, spirited, and eager to find a job. After receiving a trial offer for a position, she’s determined to win over her cantankerous boss, who thrives in absolute chaos. When a stranger from her past shows up and threatens her with an ultimatum, Mercy finds herself in serious hot water.
Food isn’t the only thing simmering in Bear’s kitchen. Over the past two months, the shy but gentle giant has been falling for the most gregarious wolf in the house. Because of pack rules, he keeps that insatiable desire under lock and key. But when someone from Mercy’s past threatens to steal her future, Bear vows to protect her at any cost.
A forbidden romance blooms between two packmates, but can it survive a secret so big it could start a war?
Love takes courage.
Opposites attract in this forbidden romance between two shifters who couldn’t be more different in age, size, and personality. Can the cinnamon-roll hero love a woman with a past as dark as his own?
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Things are progressing at the pack house and everyone is finding their position. Mercy Breedlove wants a job and convinces the cantankerous owner of the breed bar to give her a chance. Mercy has some bright ideas, from serving breed beer to adding food to the menu, but her past is catching up with her. Only problem is, Mercy doesn’t remember much of it.
Everyone likes Mercy and her positive attitude, including Bear, the pack’s cook. He’s been falling for Mercy, but trying to respect pack rules. All that changes when Mercy’s life is in danger.
Dark offered an addictive tale with a little mystery, danger, new acquaintances and a slow, steamy romance sidled with plenty of pack antics that had me giggling late into the night. The pack is a mix of personalities from a protective cat shifter to peacocks, and I love the individuality of them all.
The story regarding Mercy’s upbringing, memory loss and skill set was an engaging one. Will the pack still accept her? Trust her? Will Bear standby her? So many questions kept me listening into the wee hours.
The side thread involving the shifter bar and food had me hankering for some smoked barbecue. We see a little trouble from another local pack and it will be interesting to see what develops especially with Mercy’s suggestion.
Nicole Poole narrates as she does Dark’s other series and I love her tone, pacing and the accents she brings to the characters. She captured Mercy’s spunk and Bear’s gentleness wonderfully.
It was great slipping back into the Black Arrowhead world and I look forward to the next audiobook! Fans of paranormal romance & urban fantasy with rich characters and compelling storylines will want to grab their earbuds and listen.
Amazon | Audible
Dannika was born on a military base in the U.S. and spent her youth traveling abroad. She developed an interest writing poetry and song lyrics early on, eventually gravitating toward a job that involved writing procedural training documentation. In her spare time, she wrote novels before she decided to pursue a career in publishing. In addition to writing about supernatural worlds, Dannika is passionate about graphic design and creates all her own covers and series art. When not writing, she enjoys indie music, movies, reading, Tex-Mex, strawberry daiquiris, heaps of chocolate, and unleashing her dark side. All of her published books to date are written in the same universe and contain material suitable for adults only. Dannika’s books have sold more than 1 million copies worldwide.
Nicole Poole is a classically trained actor with equal passions for literature and improvisation. She has toured with the Royal Shakespeare Company, has been a member of the critically acclaimed Walter Thompson Orchestra for over fifteen years, and recently became a member of the Parisian groups SPOUMJ and Anitya. She is honored to have been recognized for her narration by an AudioFile Earphones Award, a Publisher’s Weekly Listen-Up Award, and nomination for an Audie Award.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/04/the-thief-by-dannika-dark.html
Lyrical Revelations is a compelling anthology of poems that artfully explores the multifaceted nature of life’s themes. McRae initiates his poetic journey with an introspective look at love, engaging in an exploration that spans its joyous peaks to its more challenging valleys. He navigates the complexities of love with a balanced view, acknowledging its transformative power and the pitfalls of misunderstandings and deceit.
Transitioning, the collection then delves into matters of faith and spirituality. Here, McRae’s verses resonate with an aura of gratitude and introspection. He inspires readers to reflect on the strength derived from faith, the pursuit of wisdom, and the light it brings to dispel life’s darker moments. His words serve not only as a beacon of encouragement but also as a gentle reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. The anthology broadens its scope further, venturing into the realms of politics and an assortment of other topics. This expansion of focus adds diversity to the collection, offering varied lenses through which to view and interpret the world.
McRae’s poetic style is marked by its straightforwardness and clarity. His accessible language and honest expression make the poems resonate on a universal level, whether they speak of despair or hope. Particularly, the segment on love stands out with its portrayal of love as a dynamic and evolving journey. Similarly, the religious poems provide a source of solace and contemplation, inviting readers to pause and reflect amidst life’s tumult. While the collection’s brevity left me yearning for more, it does not detract from the overall experience. Its concise nature makes it an ideal companion for a reflective afternoon, encouraging a pause for thought.
Lyrical Revelations is a testament to McRae’s ability to weave a tapestry of words that simultaneously captures the complexity and beauty of our existence, echoing sentiments of joy, love, nostalgia, and sorrow. This book stands out as a poignant reflection on life’s diverse experiences, offering readers a mirror to view their own journey and a window into the broader human experience.
Pages: 22 | ASIN: B0CXKZBKZG
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/09/lyrical-revelations/
Apostasy: Blood Influence is a captivating journey into a world where the mystical and the real world intertwine. This fantasy novel, set against the backdrop of a world overshadowed by a semi-sentient structure known as the Tower, delves into the lives of its main characters, Mortella and the twins, Silas and Felix. The Tower’s enigmatic presence and influence on those who possess unique abilities, known as Influences, shape the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of intrigue and destiny.
Lawrance’s writing is immersive and detailed, which draws the reader into a meticulously crafted world. The characterization of Mortella is one I particularly enjoyed. The portrayal of a complex individual whose journey from a powerful member of the Code to a reluctant bearer of a significant child is both compelling and thought-provoking. The emotional depth and development of characters like Silas and Felix add layers to the narrative, making their internal and external conflicts resonate with the reader.
Upon further reflection, and in light of the interconnected timelines with the first book, what initially appeared as uneven pacing in the later chapters is actually a deliberate stylistic choice. These chapters, which seemed rushed, are designed to complement the detailed events explored in the first book, offering a new perspective rather than repeating previous content. This approach adds a unique dimension to the series that enriches the overall reading experience by inviting readers to piece together the larger story from multiple angles.
The novel excels in its exploration of themes such as power, control, and the struggle against an oppressive system. The Tower, as a symbol of overarching influence and manipulation, is an intriguing element that adds a layer of complexity to the story. Lawrance’s ability to weave a narrative that questions destiny and the price of power is fantastic. The narrative sometimes switches between dark, intense themes and lighter dialogue and descriptions, so fans of dynamic storytelling that blends various emotional tones will certainly find it appealing.
The world-building is a standout feature, with Lawrance creating a vivid and believable fantasy world. The depiction of the Tower and its influence over the inhabitants of the Bowl is richly detailed, offering a sense of scale and history that I think adds to the story’s depth. The novel’s exploration of the unique mental connection between Silas and Felix is another highlight, providing a unique perspective on the bond between siblings and the concept of shared destiny.
Apostasy: Blood Influence is a well-crafted fantasy novel that offers a compelling narrative, complex characters, and a richly detailed world. This book is particularly recommended for readers who enjoy intricate world-building and character-driven stories. Readers who appreciate narratives that explore themes of power, destiny, and resistance against larger forces will find Apostasy: Blood Influence engaging and thought-provoking.
Pages: 362 | ASIN: B0CQTM1XKV
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/09/apostasy-blood-influence/
Russell Sebring’s The White Star of Twilight navigates the intricate themes of adolescence, companionship, and a harmonious relationship with the natural world through the lens of its young protagonist, Valeria. Grappling with the loss of her mother, Valeria relocates to her father’s home in Wyoming, where she becomes enamored with the wintry landscape and its wildlife. Her journey takes a dramatic turn following a severe accident, leading to her rescue by Philip, a Native American man. Philip introduces Valeria to the world of wolves, fostering a deep connection that becomes central to the story.
Sebring’s narrative takes a less conventional path by subtly addressing complex family dynamics without delving into melodramatic side plots. This approach lends an air of authenticity to Valeria’s experience, particularly in her adaptation to her new environment. One thing I enjoyed about the story was the transformation of a character that was initially hostile towards wolves who undergoes a significant change in perspective regarding wildlife conservation.
Sebring explores themes such as personal conflict, wildlife conservation, and the intricacies of family dynamics and custody matters in a unique context. The story involves a legal dispute over the custody of a pack of wolves. The nuanced portrayal of these elements adds significant depth to the narrative and is something I admire.
The White Star of Twilight intertwines themes of adolescence, companionship, and nature, as Valeria connects deeply with wolves and navigates family dynamics, prompting reflections on wildlife conservation and cultural understanding. The White Star of Twilight will appeal to teens, young adults, and mature readers with an affinity for nature and wolves, and those seeking a narrative free from typical adolescent drama.
Pages: 244 | ASIN: B0CW1JT377
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/09/the-white-star-of-twilight/
Linda Costarella’s No Dog Food, Please! is a charming children’s novel that explores themes of adjustment, family dynamics, and the special bond between animals and humans. The story, seen through the eyes of Jack, a Labrador Retriever, transitions from city life to rural farm living, offering an engaging contrast for young readers.
The opening chapter, “I’ve Been Moved,” skillfully introduces readers to the family dynamics, highlighting the differing attitudes of the stern grandfather and the more understanding grandmother. As the story progresses, the focus shifts to Jack’s day-to-day farm experiences, presenting a thoughtful exploration of his adjustment process and the family’s life, including their market activities and the grandfather’s traditional views on animals. This portion of the book paints a vivid picture of Jack’s world, lending authenticity to the setting.
The narrative then moves to explore Jack’s interactions with the children, offering a delightful contrast to the grandfather’s views and underscoring the generational differences in perceiving pets. These episodes are particularly effective in showcasing the growing bond between Jack and the children, infusing the story with warmth. The novel revisits Jack’s past, giving readers a poignant glimpse into the events that led to his relocation. This backstory enriches the narrative by providing deeper insight into Jack’s character and emotions.
One thing I particularly enjoyed about this book is the depiction of a family birthday party, which serves as a pivotal moment in illustrating the family dynamics and the affectionate relationship between the children and Jack. This festive element adds wonderful depth to the narrative. The novel culminates in a storyline focused on Jack’s distaste for dog food and his connection with Ben, a child who sympathizes with him. This aspect not only adds a touch of relatability for young readers but also underscores themes of understanding and acceptance within the family amidst adult apprehensions.
No Dog Food, Please! is a delightful and heartwarming tale that expertly captures the nuances of change and the sense of belonging. Costarella’s storytelling has a particular resonance with children, reflecting their experiences of adapting to new environments. The book’s accessible narrative and relatable themes make it an appealing choice for young readers, especially those fond of animal stories.
Pages: 333 | ASIN: B0CJR3G4FM
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/09/no-dog-food-please/
In No Talent for Surrender, an athlete is faced with his family’s secrets following a frightening collapse that changes the course of his life. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I felt that writing my story might help others to embrace a belief in themselves that could catapult them through life’s adversities.
No Talent for Surrender is semi-autobiographical. Were there any aspects of Johnny Promise’s experience that were difficult for you to write?
Describing the illness that I endured was emotionally difficult to articulate some days.
There was a lot of time spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
The most important factor in my character development was that the people in the book are just regular folks dealing with life like every reader would.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I haven’t started my next project but am considering a sequel.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/09/embrace-a-belief-in-themselves/