I’ve visited Tbilisi, the capital of the Republic of Georgia, several times over the past few years. It’s a likable place, with rich cultural offerings, fine food and wine, and hospitable people. This March, however, the city seemed gripped by a sense of unease. Everyone I spoke to on my visit—politicians, civil society activists, and […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/05/15/georgia-erupts/

A dispatch from the Art Editor

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/05/15/best-in-show-leanne-shapton/

A House in Shadow by Erica Damon proved to be a twisty thriller with supernatural elements that hooked me. I recommend going in cold and sticking with it, even when you want to hurl your Kindle across the room. I will keep my review short and spoiler free.

A House in Shadow
by Erica Damon
Genres: Thriller
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate

Rating:

Perfect house. Perfect family.

But looks can be deceiving. 392 Chapman Drive is not the house Tristan and Allison had hoped for. It was supposed to be the idyllic place to raise their daughter away from the bustle of the city, but all too soon the house shows a sinister side, twisting Tristan’s world into a waking nightmare.

Allison doesn’t believe him, their daughter may or may not be in danger, and he can’t shake the feeling that there’s more to all of this. Phantom knocks, figures who aren’t who they seem, doors that don’t lead where they should… could it all be in his head? Is he succumbing to stress and the isolation of working from home in a small town?

Tristan must walk the line between madness and method as he tries to stop whatever it is in the house that is tormenting him. Can he save his family or will he be their downfall?

A twisty supernatural thriller for fans of The Housemaid and Hidden Pictures.

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I grabbed A House in Shadow because it sounded like a spooky supernatural haunted house story. What I got was a twisty thriller that kept me on edge. The tag line is spot on. “Perfect house, Perfect family. But looks can be deceiving.” If you’re curious I recommend grabbing it and going in cold. Just don’t set it down, even if Tristan pisses you off. Trust me.

Tristan and Allison move into 392 Chapman Drive with their toddler. This is their first home, and it’s located outside the city where they previously lived. Tristan works from home as an editor, and Allison will now have a 30 minute commute into the city. The three of them are settling in when Tristan experiences strange things, frightening things. Time lapses, his daughter balancing precariously from railings, strange noises and more. It was eerie. Allison quickly dismisses it as stress because of the move and the tension slowly builds as Tristan sets out to convince his wife they are all in grave danger.

Now I confess, during Tristan’s point of view, there was a moment where I wanted to DNF the book. He thought things about his wife and life that made me furious. I didn’t care if the house monsters ate him. However, I stuck it out, and I am one hundred percent glad I did. The twists and point of view change to Allison blew me away.

If you are looking for an atmospheric, addictive thriller with supernatural elements and twists, I highly recommend loading this on your kindle. It’s the perfect rainy day beach read.

Amazon *

*kindleunlimited

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/05/a-house-in-shadow-by-erica-damon.html

Soccer Mastery, by Chest Dugger, offers an intricate weave of habits, secrets, and strategies aimed at elevating your soccer game. This book unpacks the minutiae that shape a soccer player’s journey from grassroots to greatness. Dugger’s methodical breakdown of various game aspects, from player analytics and nutrition to advanced offensive and defensive tactics, provides a comprehensive toolkit for any soccer enthusiast keen on refining their skills or understanding the sport’s deeper mechanics.

Dugger’s writing shines when it discusses the granular details of soccer tactics and player development. His ability to simplify complex strategies and present them in an actionable format is one thing I particularly enjoyed about this book. While the book employs a technical vocabulary that reflects its thorough analysis, it remains accessible to those interested in soccer’s nuances. The inclusion of historical and philosophical asides adds depth to the narrative, enriching the reader’s understanding, though it may occasionally shift focus from the core practical advice. This approach underscores the author’s comprehensive knowledge and passion for soccer, making it a valuable resource for dedicated enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of the game.

The book excels in its practical applications, offering drills, real-life examples, and actionable advice that are likely to benefit players at all levels. The focus on the game’s mental and physical aspects, highlighting the importance of cognitive skills like tactical awareness alongside physical drills, ensures a holistic approach to soccer training. These sections are theoretically sound and backed by Dugger’s extensive experience and evident passion for coaching.

Soccer Mastery is a treasure trove of insights for the soccer player or coach who is intent on dissecting the game’s finer points and leveraging small, strategic adjustments for significant improvement.

Pages: 133 | ISBN : 1096667835

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/05/15/soccer-mastery/

The Fate of AI Society: Civilizing Superhuman Cyberspace tackles the complex nexus between artificial intelligence, digital security, and societal governance. Through a detailed exploration of the evolution of computing, from the humble abacus to contemporary AI, the author illuminates the potential threats posed by the centralization of digital power and advocates for a revolutionary rearchitecting of our cyber infrastructure. His thesis pivots on the need for a decentralized approach that leverages the principles of the Church-Turing thesis and capability-based addressing to safeguard individual freedoms and democratic values in an increasingly digital world.

The author’s analysis is both thoughtful and provocative. He compellingly argues that the current trajectory of our AI-enabled society could lead to an Orwellian dystopia unless significant changes are made. His critique of the centralization of computing power is particularly striking, drawing parallels with historical attempts at control and manipulation.

While the urgency of Hamer-Hodges’ message is clear, the technical solutions proposed, such as adopting the λ-calculus for software design, I think, require a level of technical understanding that may be beyond the typical reader. I felt that the prose was dense at times, which obscured insightful observations. The book is laden with technical jargon and complex diagrams that, while illustrative for an informed audience, makes the text feel more like a collection of academic papers.

One thing I found particularly interesting was the author’s ability to contextualize modern technological challenges within a broad historical perspective. Hamer-Hodges skillfully traces the lineage of computing from ancient tools like the abacus to the present-day quandaries posed by artificial intelligence. This historical narrative not only enriches the reader’s understanding of technological evolution but also highlights the recurring themes of power, control, and resistance that resonate throughout human history.

The Fate of AI Society: Civilizing Superhuman Cyberspace is a great contribution to the discourse on digital ethics and governance. Hamer-Hodges offers a well-reasoned vision for a more equitable digital future, and his call to action is both timely and necessary. This book would make a worthwhile read to policymakers, computer scientists, and technology ethicists. It serves as a valuable resource for people looking to understand the potential impacts of AI and computing on society and offers practical frameworks for mitigating these effects.

Pages: 170 | ASIN : B0CK1CG9DD

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/05/15/the-fate-of-ai-society/

Marilyn Estes Quigley’s My War at Windsor School blends historical accuracy with the engaging elements of a coming-of-age narrative set against the backdrop of World War II. The novel draws on Quigley’s own experiences as a schoolgirl in the 1940s, presenting a tapestry of both real events and imaginative fiction. Central to the story is Sally, a young girl navigating the trials of adolescence and the harsh realities of war after an accident forces her to repeat a year at Windsor School, a situation that leaves her feeling isolated and out of place.

As Sally grapples with making new friends and the heartache of her uncle going off to war, she encounters moral dilemmas that test her values, particularly around honesty—a virtue deeply esteemed by her family. These personal battles coincide with her academic challenges and the blossoming of an unlikely friendship that introduces an element of mystery to her life. Despite the war’s shadow over her everyday existence, Sally’s internal and external struggles reflect a poignant journey of resilience and growth. Approaching this historical fiction, I appreciated the nuanced portrayal of life in the 1940s, which Quigley articulates through both the ordinary and the extraordinary aspects of the era. Initially, the narrative’s casual tone seemed at odds with its historical context, yet this choice ultimately complements Sally’s youthful perspective, enhancing the accessibility of the events and emotions she experiences. The simplicity of the storytelling, coupled with well-paced chapters, facilitates a smooth and engaging reading experience. The characters are distinctly crafted, each bringing a unique presence that enriches the narrative. Particularly compelling is Sally’s relationship with her family and her uncle, whose character, though not as deeply explored as one might hope, adds a significant layer to the emotional landscape of the story. Sally herself is a character of commendable depth, her passion for horses and her dedication to her principles painting a portrait of a young girl whose strength and kindness shine even in the face of adversity.

My War at Windsor School not only offers a window into the impact of war on the lives of ordinary people but also serves as a testament to the strength required to navigate such turbulent times. Quigley successfully captures the essence of the era and the indomitable spirit of its people, making this novel a thoughtful and informative read for enthusiasts of historical fiction.

Pages: 315 | ISBN: 979-8-218-40551-9

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/05/15/my-war-at-windsor-school/

Helipads in Heaven introduces us to “Goose” or Dillon, an idiosyncratic writer who unexpectedly wins a contest granting her the opportunity to travel back in time. As a highly acclaimed author with a complex history, Goose confronts her past and explores its impact on her present through an engaging and reflective adventure that balances levity with emotional depth.

Shanti Hershenson demonstrates notable skill, crafting a concise yet fully realized narrative that deftly establishes characters, events, and their significance without feeling rushed or disjointed. The protagonist, Goose, along with her husband David and Dr. Moreno, the scientist facilitating her time travel, are compellingly drawn and contribute to a richly woven plot replete with twists, thrilling escapades, and moments of genuine emotion.

The short time spent with the characters intensifies the emotional connection, leaving some readers possibly yearning for more. This element of transience enhances the book’s impact, emphasizing the theme that the trials we endure fundamentally shape our identities.

Helipads in Heaven is not only an enjoyable read but also invites reflection on how personal adversities influence who we become. Hershenson’s work is commendable, and her potential future contributions to literature are highly anticipated. Readers looking for a thoughtfully paced and introspective journey will find much to appreciate in this novel.

Pages: 170 | ASIN : B0C97X49B6

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/05/15/helipads-in-heaven/

Runaway Fox follows a charming young stockbroker in a relationship who complicates things by entering into a love triangle. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

My stories are created quite spontaneously without any previously elaborated plan and concretely defined goal. I simply have the opening scene in my head and just start writing. For this reason, I cannot explicitly define what was my inspiration for this story. Perhaps it is the nature of emotional relationships and a kind of paradox that the more free people are in a relationship, the stronger and more permanent the bond between them is. When I say free, I don’t mean the liberal relationships where both have the freedom and permission from their partners to “goof around” on the side while being in a formal relationship at the same time. I am very conservative by nature and would not like to comment on what I think about such relationships. By the feeling of freedom in an emotional relationship, whether it’s romance or marriage, I mean that we feel extremely relaxed next to our partner, that we don’t have to pretend to be something else, that we don’t have to keep silent or agree, that we don’t we have to justify ourselves and over-explain why we are sad, happy, angry or euphoric. When we feel free to be completely ourselves next to our partner, then it is a real relationship that lasts and that will not be spent over time, but on the contrary will only get stronger. Charming young and successful stockbroker Goran Lisitsa should by all rules be very happy in his relationship with the also popular and fascinating sexy TV star Maritsa Stevanovich. However, instead of happiness, joy and satisfaction, he feels more and more anxious and constrained. When he accidentally met Mariya Milutinovich, he did not feel love at first sight, nor did he fall in love immediately. He felt an unexpected closeness and relaxation with a person whom he sees for the first time in his life and who belongs to a completely different “world”. That feeling that you’ve known someone forever even though you’ve just met them is a sign that you’ve probably just met your soulmate, and maybe even your other half. If you really experience such an encounter in your life, do not miss such an opportunity, because such a chance is not given to everyone, and many people never get such an opportunity.

Goran Lisitsa achieves the fame he has wanted but realizes he has no control over his fate. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?

Most people claim that self image is the most important and significant thing in modern life. The way other people see you, that’s how they treat you and respect you. However, people usually build their image so that they seem much more successful and happy than they really are, so very quickly they become prisoners of their own image, because they constantly have to pretend that they are something else, and this becomes too burdensome, over time.

Goran Lisitsa acquired the image of a very successful stock market consultant, but not thanks to his ability, but to sheer luck and an accidental mistake he made at the “right moment”. Beneath that image, he is just an ordinary average modern handsome man, who does not know how to deal with his emotional partner Marica Stevanovich and who, like most men today, does not have the courage to be a real man in the moments when the woman next to him expects it the most.

Goran is the main character, but the story of Runaway Fox is actually led by four female characters:

Goran’s girlfriend Maritsa Stevanovich, an attractive, intelligent and very manipulative TV star, a born fighter who permanently fights exclusively for her goals in life and who perceives all relationships, even emotional and friendly ones, as a struggle. Due to her focus on achieving her goals, she does not notice the needs, feelings and desires of her boyfriend and her friends and partners as well.

Mariya Milutinovich, a modest and unspoiled country girl from the vicinity of Belgrade, who does not expect much from her life, but would certainly like to at least meet her “prince on a white horse”. She’s beautiful indeed, but rather invisible in an urban Serbian mileu full of attractive sexy dolls

Dragitsa, Mariya’s neighbor, who sees Mariya as her unborn daughter and who belongs to that type of old-fashioned women for whom the meaning and purpose of their life is complete dedication to their family. These kinds of women are always ready to make sacrifices and you can rely on them at any time of day and night. Unfortunately, such women are gradually “dying out” in modern Serbia.

Tatyana Lisitsa, Goran’s mother, a modern experienced woman, who knows very well how things work in both men’s and women’s worlds

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

Although Runaway Fox is just a fairy tale like love story with the obligatory happy ending, it is enriched with additional universal themes, where some of which are pure embellishments to this story. These are topics related to science and religion, which are discussed in an extremely optional way in the dialogues between Goran and his friend, the scientist and monk Boyan Krstich, as well as in the sermons of the Orthodox priest Father Antoniye. I believe that many readers will be surprised and probably shocked by Boyan Krstich’s thoughts on religious and scientific topics, and liberal readers will be appalled by Father Antoniye’s sermons. Nevertheless, one of the universal themes underlying this story is fate, because the entire course of the story is determined by the chance encounters between Goran and Mariya Milutinovich. What is actually a destiny? A chronological journal of life or a screenplay, written in advance, according to which we all perform our roles in life? Are we really the masters and creators of our own destiny or is our life a river whose stream carries us along its course, while we only try to stay on the surface and not to be stranded on a sandbank or not to be broken against a rock before our time is over? Well, this story does not give the answers to any of these universal themes questions, it just asks proper questions.

What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?

As I said before, my stories are created completely spontaneously. I only need to write the first few pages, to begin with only one character, and the story will continue to develop on its own. At the very beginning, I really have no idea in which direction my story will go, who will all participate in it and how it will end. It’s a very fun process for me and probably similar to creating an art painting on a canvas, because I’m not sure that after the first stroke of the brush, every artist knows in detail how their painting will look in the end. Right now I’m still expecting that kind of inspiration, but maybe this time it will be a political novel, given that we’re currently on the brink of a world war, which has probably already started. My impression is that Western civilization, lulled by long-term prosperity, is not at all ready for the tectonic changes that are happening in the world, and given the current ruling “religion” of conformity and individualism, I am not sure if it is even capable of mobilizing as a society for the fight which is surely waiting for them.

Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/05/15/prisoners-of-their-own-image/