A dispatch from the Art Editor

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/04/17/tulips-leanne-shapton/

Italy’s prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, has sued Luciano Canfora, an eighty-one-year-old historian, philologist, and professor emeritus at the University of Bari, for aggravated defamation (diffamazione aggravata). The preliminary hearing took place yesterday. The case dates back two years, to when Meloni was an opposition parliamentarian and the leader of the Fratelli d’Italia (Brothers of Italy) […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/04/17/an-open-letter-in-support-of-luciano-canfora/

Sophia Rose is here with the fifth Eve Ronin crime thriller, Dream Town, by Lee Godberg. Come to Hidden Hills, a gated community in LA where Eve Ronin is dealing with murder in this gritty police procedural.

Dream Town
by Lee Goldberg
Series: Eve Ronin #5
Narrator: Nicol Zanzarella
Length: 8 hours and 47 minutes
Genres: Crime Fiction
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 4.5 cups Speed: 1.2x

A gated dream town for the megarich becomes a murderous nightmare in a riveting Eve Ronin thriller by #1 New York Times bestselling author Lee Goldberg.

Hidden Hills is a private celebrity enclave of white picket fences and horse trails that seems to exist in a dreamworld. But when reality superstar Kitty Winslow is killed within their gates and corpses are found in the vast state park outside them, LASD detective Eve Ronin realizes there is a deadly, razor-thin line between what’s real and what’s imagined.

Eve discovers that Kitty’s surreal on- and off-camera life, a blur of fact and fantasy, shockingly mirrors her own as she struggles to investigate the killings, wade into a music industry war, and battle a vicious Chilean gang—all while her life is being turned into a fictional cop show directed by her estranged father.

Eve’s grip on reality and the case is strained to the breaking point as the slayings continue, the media frenzy reaches a fever pitch, and the only inescapable truth she can see is death…and it’s coming for her.

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Sophia Rose’s Review

A gritty and colorful police procedural set in LA’s Lala Land of reality TV and traveling Chilean burglary gangs with Lee Goldberg’s Eve Ronin on the case. 

I was familiar with Lee Goldberg’s works for a few years now, but not until last year’s sensational new release of standalone sci-fi thriller, Calico, did I try his work.  I was most impressed to I reached for this year’s new release, the fifth installment in the Eve Ronin series.  Granted, I took a chance that I could slip into the story without having read the earlier books.  I can see where I would have perhaps enjoyed Dream Town more if I’d have gotten the book in order.  Eve’s past career, her family situation, and even some ongoing personal and relationship development all point back to previous books.

That said, I had no trouble slipping into Eve Ronin’s world of police work and figuring out how to survive the work politics and lethal situations her job brings let alone navigating the odd world her parents created with a show based on her life filming presently and the crazy rarified world of a wealthy gated community where her Kardashian-like reality TV star victim was murdered.  I found the addition of the field of bodies discovered in a nearby park and connected with Chilean travel gangs a scary yet fascinating additional case for Eve and her older more phlegmatic partner, Duncan.  The find of the bodies brings in her would-be boyfriend, Daniel, the pathologist, is involved in.  Eve’s still not sold on the relationship or Daniel living with her.

So, Eve has a lot of balls in the air, but she’s tough and smart.  She gets it done.  I figured some of it out and how things connected, but nothing close to the final solution. 

Nicole Zanzarella was a new to me narrator.  I had no trouble settling into her storytelling and I thought she made a good Eve and skillfully voiced the rest of the characters well.  She caught the pace and tone of the story and made a good story even stronger.

All in all, the writing and description of setting into a celebrity and wealthy world I had little conception of was as solid and engaging as ever.  I will be going back for the beginning of the series and following Eve to this point.  Those who enjoy police procedural thrillers in the larger than life world of LA policing should definitely give this a go.

Amazon | Audible

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/04/dream-town-by-lee-goldberg.html

In Todd B. Lieman’s novel Dinner at God’s House, the protagonist, Erik Bernstein, grapples with existential questions after his death. Offered the rare chance to converse with God, Erik reflects on a life marked by unfulfilled aspirations and a career that stifled his creative passions. The narrative delves into Erik’s past relationships and pivotal life moments, framing his journey in a context of missed opportunities and personal regrets. This exploration unfolds in a setting that blurs the lines between the earthly and the divine, offering a contemplative space for Erik to reconsider his life’s choices.

Lieman’s storytelling weaves a rich tapestry of themes, ranging from the value of art and the pitfalls of materialism to the complexities of love and the finality of death. The narrative thrives in its capacity to mirror the modern world’s dilemmas, subtly nudging the reader to introspect about their life choices. The novel is dotted with ethereal imagery and poetic prose, enhancing its dreamlike quality. Lieman’s descriptive prowess shines particularly in scenes depicting otherworldly elements, such as a child with a haunting gaze or the celestial landscapes of the afterlife.

Dinner at God’s House stands out for its multifaceted approach to storytelling, skillfully intertwining philosophical and psychological elements. The book appeals to those who seek a narrative that challenges conventional perspectives on life and death, providing a fresh and engaging reading experience. Lieman’s work is commendable for its depth, inviting readers to embark on a journey that is both introspective and enlightening.

Pages: 221 | ASIN : B0D1LK6RX3

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/17/dinner-at-gods-house/

“A testament to the power of hope and motherhood in the worst of situations.”—Kirkus

After a cataclysmic flood submerges half the world underwater, cannibalistic gangs and corrupt encampments become a constant threat to the remaining dry lands. Liv and her precocious three-year-old son Milo are some of the lucky ones who have survived.

With the company of a lonely horse seeking a loving home, Liv is determined to protect Milo from the encampments, even if it means destroying what little is left of civilization. Amidst it all, she learns to embrace love and her own worth. Dry Lands is a gripping journey showcasing the resilience of humanity, parenthood, and the sacrifices we make for our children.

FLAME TREE PRESS is the imprint of long-standing Independent Flame Tree Publishing, dedicated to full-length original fiction in the horror and suspense, science fiction & fantasy, and crime / mystery / thriller categories. The list brings together fantastic new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Learn more about Flame Tree Press at http://www.flametreepress.com and connect on social media @FlameTreePress.

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/17/dry-lands/

Survive the Day is an intriguing entry in the ‘Butnari and Hill Crime Thriller’ series. It’s an adventurous crime thriller that captures the essence of human resilience and determination. Author E. A. Coe masterfully intertwines the harrowing journey of Carmen, a young Mexican woman ensnared in human trafficking, with the meticulous and high-stakes world of FBI agents Marina Butnari and Douglas Hill. Coe’s portrayal of the dark world of human trafficking and the complex mechanisms of law enforcement makes for a gripping and eye-opening read.

Coe’s writing is both detailed and emotionally engaging, transporting readers into the heart of the action. The depiction of Carmen’s struggle, juxtaposed with the inner workings of the FBI, offers a comprehensive look into the multifaceted nature of crime and justice. Coe’s commitment to detail is evident throughout the novel. While the storyline is compelling, the narrative takes moments to delve deeply into procedural aspects, adding a layer of authenticity and depth to the world in the novel.

One thing I truly enjoyed about Survive the Day is its portrayal of character relationships, particularly the dynamic between agents Butnari and Hill. Coe crafts their interactions with a level of depth and complexity that adds a rich layer to the narrative. For example, their efforts during the intense rescue operation in Las Vegas highlight their professional competence and subtly reveal their mutual respect and underlying trust. This partnership, underpinned by their individual strengths and vulnerabilities, adds a compelling human element to the story, making the characters more relatable and the plot more impactful.

Survive the Day is a recommended read for fans of crime thrillers and readers interested in the nuances of law enforcement. Its realistic portrayal of human trafficking significantly contributes to the genre, and its compelling characters ensure an engaging experience. This book is particularly suited for readers who appreciate a blend of action, emotional depth, and a glimpse into the workings of the FBI.

Pages: 376 | ASIN : B0CTRGZGNS

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/17/survive-the-day-a-butnari-and-hill-crime-thriller/

In The Unvarnished Truth, Dr. Karla Hylton presents a poignant narrative, delving into her journey through depression and trauma within the confines of a turbulent marriage. The book opens with Karla reflecting on the early days of her relationship, marked by overlooked warning signs, and progresses into the complexities and dangers that later unfolded. Hylton’s candid portrayal of her experiences – from manipulation and hurtful remarks from her ex-husband to her own introspections and regrets as a mother and spouse – paints a vivid picture of her challenging marital life. The narrative intensifies as it explores her struggles with regret, suicidal ideation, the intricacies of divorce, and the pain of estrangement from her children.

Hylton revisits her traumatic past with remarkable courage, aiming to foster open discussions on mental health and provide solace to others facing similar challenges. Her memoir stands out for its frankness and introspection, touching on the anguish of domestic isolation and hostility and the complexities of personal accountability during vulnerable times. This book is an immersive memoir that offers an in-depth look into Hylton’s life. The narrative is enriched with detailed accounts of various challenges, including a harrowing childhood incident and her struggles for financial independence during critical health crises. The memoir encompasses a wide array of themes, such as divorce, trauma, education, writing, therapy, parenting, familial conflicts, loss, childhood experiences, manipulation, psychological treatments, friendships, and extramarital affairs, presenting a multifaceted exploration of Hylton’s life.

This memoir is particularly resonant for those who have endured abuse from narcissistic partners or acquaintances. Dr. Hylton’s forthrightness in sharing her experiences with depression and suicidal thoughts is not only brave but also immensely inspiring for others in similar circumstances. The Unvarnished Truth is a testament to Dr. Hylton’s generosity and commitment to shedding light on challenging yet crucial topics.

Pages: 274 | ASIN : B0CHDP6CXH

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/17/the-unvarnished-truth-purpose-in-the-pain/

River follows a young boy with a unique lineage who has big dreams and learns how to navigate challenging situations and how he can impact the world and people around him. What was the inspiration for your story?

My struggles in my life and the struggle of finding success writing children’s books, novels, music, establishing a brand, and running a business. I’ve written fifteen children’s books to date. Three have been released. I hope to continue releasing one a year in the future. My first novel will be released this year. I released an album, CITY, under my own label, Climax Records, Inc. in 2005. I’ve produced music videos, written hundreds of songs, and yet I may not reach the level of success I dream of, despite talent, hard work, and perseverance. But I want to ensure I pass down all the knowledge and experience I’ve learned to my sons. I want them to know that sometimes what they want is not meant to be, regardless of the work put in. It does not mean you are a failure, because success can not be achieved without failure, learning from your mistakes, and applying those lessons in the future.

The art in this book brings the story to life, drawing children into the story and helping them relate to Renly. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Jordan Pizzuti?

I have been very fortunate to have Jordan on my team. I’ve learned through my music collaborations that when you’re working with professionals, they need little direction. So our collaboration process is simple. I give her the story and let her have free rain to create the vision that she sees. I do this because sometimes, an outside perspective can see aspects of a story the creator can’t and come up with something better. Jordan is great at that.

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

1. Never give up on a dream: When you’re tired and you want to quit, rest, but don’t stop. What you’re looking for might be closer than you think. So I want children to listen to their hearts, follow their dreams, and not let others steal their enthusiasm.
2. Sacrifice: But that means working harder and risking more than others to achieve your dream.
3. Family: Renly could have never strived for his dreams without the encouragement of his mother, the values she instilled in him, and the generations that came before him to lay down a path to reach success.

Can you tell us a little about where the story goes in book two and when the novel will be available?

So the next book is not a continuation of RIVER, but another story about a mother and son called, LONG, LONG TIME. That will be a sing-a-long book, which will be my second that I’ve released so far. Here is an excerpt of the story:

She drove home in the pouring rain.
I knocked on the window and called her name.
She came in. She looked so tired.
She said to me, “Baby, I need to rest a while.”

Now I can’t keep pretending that she’ll be ok.
But I don’t want to believe what I’m trying to say.
In my heart something tells me she’s losing this war.

I don’t know how long she’ll hold on.
I pray that I’m wrong.
And she’ll be here a long, long time…

You can read excerpts from all seven of my upcoming books at my website under the “READ” section. My first novel, THE WHITE, will be released this year, HALLOWEEN 2024.

Author Links: Twitter | Facebook | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/17/never-give-up-on-a-dream/