In the fall of 1966, when I was twenty-four, I returned to New York. I was finally completing the journey home I had begun when I left New Orleans in the winter of 1964. My friend, the sculptor Mark di Suvero, lived in a building on the corner of Fulton and Front Streets; I looked […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/04/25/photographing-a-lost-new-york/
In Aftermarket Afterlife, the thirteenth audiobook in the InCryptid series by Seanan McGuire, we get Mary Dunlavy story. Mary has been the babysitter for Price children for four generations. Did I mention she is also a ghost? Attacks, danger, loss and more await you in this gripping installment.
Aftermarket Afterlife
by Seanan McGuire
Series: InCryptid #13
Narrator: Emily Bauer
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Source: Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Narration: 4.5 cups Speed: 1.5x
Seanan McGuire’s New York Times -bestselling and Hugo Award-nominated urban fantasy InCryptid series continues with the thirteenth book following the Price family, cryptozoologists who study and protect the creatures living in secret all around us
Mary Dunlavy didn’t intend to become a professional babysitter. Of course, she didn’t intend to die, either, or to become a crossroads ghost. As a babysitting ghost, she’s been caring for the Price family for four generations, and she’s planning to keep doing the job for the better part of forever.
With her first charge finally back from her decades-long cross-dimensional field trip, with a long-lost husband and adopted daughter in tow, it’s time for Mary to oversee the world’s most chaotic family reunion. And that’s before the Covenant of St. George launches a full scale strike against the cryptids of Manhattan, followed quickly by an attack on the Campbell Family Carnival.
It’s going to take every advantage and every ally they have for the Prices to survive what’s coming—and for Mary, to avoid finding out the answer to a question she’s never wanted to where does a babysitting ghost go when she runs out of people to take care of?
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Narrated by Emily Bauer, McGuire continues the saga of the Price family. The family has made it their mission to protect multiple species of in-cryptid who live hidden amongst humans. The story is involved and I encourage you to listen to the series in the order of their release. I love the parallel universes, diverse creatures, but most of all, the Price family.
When Mary was sixteen, she died and met a crossroads witch and agreed to become a crossroads ghost, provided she could be there when the family needed her. Which is how she became the babysitter for the Price family. With her first charge returned home and the crossroads gone, she has a lot to consider, but before she can, the Covenant of St. George attacks Manhattan and all hell breaks loose.
I loved getting Mary’s point of view as she scrabbled from here to there, aiding how she could. Aftermarket Afterlife was a darker novel than its predecessors and I admit to shedding a tear or two. The Prices are tired, have suffered too much loss, and the Covenant can suck an egg. Sarah and Mary play heavily in the story as they can transport to family members in need.
I like Mary but the repeating of her role, love for the children, etc, etc was grating. Mary helps to drive their reaction to the Covenant, but at a terrible cost. I love this series and the last book ended on such a high note that when I finished this audio; I was left feeling blue.
Emily Bauer does a lovely job with the narration and, as always, I recommend listening. The novella that follows Dreaming of You in Freefall was not included in the audio version, so I will need to check it out later.
Update: Yesterday, Ms. McGuire announced more books in the Incryptid series & the Toby Daye series. She signed a deal with Tor. The first book, Installment Immortality, will release in the spring of 2025, followed by a Toby Daye book in the fall. I am over the moon excited and hope they deliver audiobooks as well.
Amazon | Audible
Seanan McGuire is a native Californian, which has resulted in her being exceedingly laid-back about venomous wildlife, and terrified of weather. When not writing urban fantasy (as herself) and science fiction thrillers (as Mira Grant), she likes to watch way too many horror movies, wander around in swamps, record albums of original music, and harass her cats. Seanan is the author of the October Daye, InCryptid, and Indexing series of urban fantasies; the Newsflesh trilogy; the Parasitology duology; and the “Velveteen vs.” superhero shorts. Her cats, Lilly, Alice, and Thomas, are plotting world domination even as we speak, but are easily distracted by feathers on sticks, so mankind is probably safe. For now.
Lauded as a prolific narrator by the Audiobook Publishers Association, Emily Bauer has a passion for truthful, honest storytelling and creating memorable characters across all genres. Emily graduated from New York University majoring in Theatre and Business. The recipient of multiple “Golden Earphones” , “Listen-Up Awards”, and Publishers Weekly starred reviews, she is well-known for her animation work on shows such as “Pokemon”, “Clifford”, and “Wallykazam”, as well as many of Miyazaki’s animated masterpieces, to name just a few. Among her over 300 audiobooks, recent favorites include the iconic ‘“Baby-Sitters Club” series as Mary Anne Spier, the beautifully tragic Beth in “Little Women”, The Incryptid Series by Seanan McGuire, and the Razorland Series by Ann Aguirre. Non-fiction work includes “Constitutional Grounds for Presidential Impeachment” and Lauren Mcgoodwin’s bestseller, “Power Moves”.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/04/aftermarket-afterlife-seanan-mcguire.html
In Starting Over, a Father by Choice by Ann Heap, readers are drawn into the lives of Wanda and Randy, a couple whose longstanding relationship since their teenage years faces its toughest test. Heap intricately explores the dynamics of love and commitment through the lens of this pivotal incident that promises to either solidify or unravel their bond.
Wanda, traditionally a diligent and sensible individual, finds herself at a crossroads after a transformative event, prompting readers to ponder the resilience of her character and the future of her relationship. Randy’s enduring affection for Wanda is portrayed with depth, challenging him to redefine acceptance and support in the face of unforeseen changes. Heap crafts a cast of well-rounded characters, from Wanda’s blend of intelligence and vulnerability to Randy’s unwavering support. Additionally, Carter adds a touch of charm and spontaneity, while Tillie emerges as a wise and enigmatic figure whose timely interventions often carry a touch of mystique.
The narrative balances light and dark tones effectively, ensuring a compelling read. Dramatic turns, such as a character’s sudden disappearance, are handled with a flair that grips the reader. The portrayal of firefighters weaves in a layer of heroism and sacrifice, enriching the storyline with a realistic glimpse into their courageous lives and the personal stakes involved in their profession. Heap also addresses the complex theme of adoption with sensitivity and insight, providing a thoughtful commentary on its challenges and emotional journey.
Starting Over, a Father by Choice is a captivating and enjoyable read, deftly combining elements of romance and drama with a realistic portrayal of life’s unexpected twists and the enduring power of love.
Pages: 250 | ASIN : B0CJQQS3G8
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/25/starting-over-a-father-by-choice/
An Apparently Normal Person by Bonnie R. Armstrong is a strikingly candid and powerful memoir, delving deep into the author’s journey through medical mystery and personal discovery. This exploration begins as Armstrong, a career-focused child advocate, faces a series of baffling physical ailments. Her quest for answers uncovers a shocking childhood trauma, revealing the roots of her dissociative disorder. This disorder, initially a protective mechanism, eventually manifests as overwhelming mental and physical symptoms that challenge her.
Armstrong’s narrative is nothing short of compelling. Her unflinching honesty in recounting her experiences brings to life both the pain and the strength that is inherent in her story. Her writing style is vulnerable and insightful, making it a gripping read. The book’s portrayal of dissociative disorders stands out for its depth and clarity. It invites readers into a world often misunderstood. I found Armstrong’s journey through self-discovery, acceptance, and eventually empowerment to be moving as well as inspiring.
The exploration of mental health stigma and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity are notable themes. The memoir offers a deep understanding of how trauma impacts the mind and body and the role of dissociation as a coping mechanism. It’s a testament to resilience, shedding light on the importance of mental health awareness and compassion.
An Apparently Normal Person is a must-read for anyone interested in psychological memoirs, particularly those related to trauma and recovery. It’s an educational and empathetic journey suitable for mental health professionals, trauma survivors, and readers looking for a story of triumph over adversity. Armstrong’s courage in sharing her story provides valuable insights and hope to others facing similar struggles.
Pages: 340 | ASIN : B0CVJVB5PY
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/25/an-apparently-normal-person-from-medical-mystery-to-dissociative-superpower/
Scout’s Honor presents a gripping tale of Eddie Kawadsky, who later transforms into Richard Austen, navigating a tumultuous life marked by crime and an urgent quest for redemption. The story opens with a perilous drug smuggling venture in Tijuana, setting the stage for a narrative that is rich in betrayal, ambition, and survival. As Eddie’s escapades evolve from risky undertakings to major criminal operations, he is forced to confront his morality and past ties, ultimately striving to reinvent himself amidst shady deals and his ventures into real estate.
John McNellis adeptly portrays the high stakes and moral dilemmas that pervade Eddie’s world, making Scout’s Honor a riveting read. The story is laden with suspense and is intricately described which immersed me in the intensity of the conflicts. The contrast between the gritty urban settings and the lush, perilous Mexican landscapes provides a striking backdrop to the drama.
The novel portrays a broad cast and tackles intricate interpersonal dynamics, which may present a rich challenge for readers keen on delving into diverse backstories and motivations. This complexity serves as a testament to John McNellis’s skill in character development. I think he particularly excels with the character of Eddie/Richard, whose evolution is portrayed with both authenticity and depth, making his journey a compelling highlight of the story.
Scout’s Honor is an engrossing exploration of crime, identity, and redemption. This crime thriller is written with a keen eye for tension and moral complexity. The vivid settings and the dynamic protagonist add layers of depth to an already compelling narrative, making this novel a rewarding read for those who appreciate thoughtful character studies intertwined with suspenseful plots.
Pages: 312 | ASIN: B0CTLNPS93
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/25/scouts-honor/
In The Invisible Ones, Jaime Grookett delves into a lesser-known chapter of American history, weaving a narrative that exposes the eugenic treatment of women in the 20th century. Although fictional, the novel serves as a poignant reminder of these obscured historical truths.
The protagonist, seventeen-year-old Anna Wilson, shoulders the burden of caring for her three younger siblings on their family farm after their parents’ abandonment. Despite her efforts to provide a stable life, the Children’s Aid Society intervenes when they discover the siblings living unsupervised. This marks the beginning of Anna’s journey through a harrowing landscape of institutional mistreatment and societal neglect.
Her resilience and determination shine as she navigates through life’s adversities, challenging the unjust systems that seek to diminish her worth. Grookett’s narrative is compelling, portraying Anna’s early life marked by limited resources and educational opportunities, which unscrupulous figures attempt to exploit to confine her freedoms. A significant turn in Anna’s life occurs when she is unjustly sent to an asylum for the so-called “feeble-minded.” It is within these walls that she learns of the grave injustices faced by those deemed unfit by society—individuals forcibly isolated and subjected to irreversible medical interventions aimed at preventing their reproduction. Despite the overwhelming challenges, Anna’s journey is one of unyielding courage. She evolves into a figure of strength and perseverance, embodying the roles of a friend, sister, and potential mother. Her fight against the oppressive forces illustrates a profound narrative of self-belief and resistance against those who wield their power carelessly.
The Invisible Ones is both harrowing and uplifting, presenting a tapestry of human spirit and resilience. Grookett’s elegant prose and sensitive storytelling highlight the hidden beauties of a fight for justice and freedom, making it an essential read for those interested in the resilience of the human spirit against historical injustices. This book not only recounts a troubling past but also celebrates the enduring will to overcome it.
Pages: 340 | ISBN: 183794010X
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/25/the-invisible-ones/
When Things Fall Apart follows a Native American woman who is a new homicide detective and encounters antagonistic coworkers leading to her working a murder case on her own. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My sister lives in Oklahoma and related an incident to me about the verbal abuse of an older Native American man by a group of white males. Using that incident, I created the young Native American female and saddled her with a misogynistic and racist male detective as a partner.
Kit endures discrimination and prejudice from her new colleagues while trying to adjust to her new position as a homicide detective while maintaining her cultural diversity. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Facing open discrimination and prejudice from her assigned partner was the driving idea behind Kit’s character. It forced her to have to deal with it in a way so as not to totally alienate her senior detective yet defend her heritage. How she responded to the complex and deeply troubling nature of her first homicide case rounded out her character.
How did the mystery develop for this story? Did you plan it before writing or did it develop organically?
I planned the basic plotline prior to beginning the story then developed it organically as the story moved along.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, this is the first book in this series and I am currently writing the second one now. Kit’s next case will take her out of her comfort zone working in Fort Worth with leads which send her to Las Vegas. There, she comes face to face with a nemesis who seems to be two steps ahead of her. He will force Kit to make a dangerous choice.
Author Links: Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/25/her-first-homicide-case/