While I was preparing for this interview, there was a problem with The New Yorker’s website; when I searched “Doreen St. Felix,” I got what seemed to be every single article ever written in the history of the magazine. This glitch struck me as an appropriate representation of Doreen as a prolific critic with a […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/05/28/documents-of-mundanity-doreen-st-felix/
Cats were not, historically, great talkers (unless you counted Siamese). For much of their existence they had not needed to be. Consigned to barns, kitchens and alleyways for centuries, their main communication remained mostly among themselves. Apart from the unearthly wailing of queens during heat, or the involuntary screech of a tom scratched during a […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/06/04/written-by-paw-cat-speech/
In Pulse, J.Z. York presents an imaginative fusion of military precision, scientific intrigue, and fantasy. This debut novel introduces Staff Sergeant Grace Woods, a cryptographer who immerses herself in work to cope with her family’s loss. Her existence takes an unexpected turn when a cataclysmic electromagnetic pulse propels her into a parallel universe dominated by Fae. This new world, echoing the fantastical stories once told by her grandmother, captivates and challenges her in equal measure.
York excels in world-building, crafting a parallel realm with precision and flair. The environments are vivid, drawing readers into a universe where magic mirrors the functionality of electricity in our world—a clever twist that enhances the believability of the fantastical elements. The transition between worlds is handled with finesse, providing a seamless narrative experience. The plot advances at a measured pace, deftly balancing action, suspense, and character development. Grace’s evolution from a grief-stricken soldier to a pivotal figure in an unfamiliar world is depicted with depth and sincerity. Her interactions, particularly with the skeptical Fae authorities who see her as a potential threat, are portrayed with a realism that underscores the narrative’s emotional stakes. York not only spins a tale of adventure but also weaves in profound themes of humanity, fate, and destiny. As Grace confronts the pattern of loss that haunts her, the story probes philosophical questions, elevating it beyond mere escapism. The novel also reflects on contemporary societal challenges, using its fantasy elements to explore issues such as resilience and adaptation.
Pulse is a standout novel that deftly combines elements of science fiction and fantasy. It offers a fresh perspective within the genres, bolstered by York’s adept blend of detailed military knowledge and rich imaginative storytelling. This book will appeal to enthusiasts of both genres and marks J.Z. York as a promising new voice worth following. I look forward to her future works with great anticipation.
Pages: 332 | ASIN : B0BWR7FV6B
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/04/pulse/
French Kiss: How the Americans and French Fell in and Out of Love During the Cold War, by Steve Bassett, is a captivating exploration of the dynamic and often tumultuous relationship between the United States and France during the Cold War era. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, historical analysis, and cultural reflections, Bassett delves into the complex interactions that defined this period, highlighting both the camaraderie and the conflicts that arose as American military personnel and French citizens navigated the geopolitical landscape of the time.
The book’s writing is engaging and accessible, making a potentially dense historical topic feel vivid and relatable. Bassett’s storytelling shines when he recounts personal stories, such as those of Army Captain Francis C. Nollette advising his son to explore beyond the American enclaves or the amusing yet poignant anecdotes of Americans adapting to life in Châteauroux. These narratives bring to life the human aspect of the Cold War, offering a unique perspective that academic texts often miss. While I enjoyed the book, I felt that the writing occasionally veered into somewhat overly detailed descriptions, which can slow the pace for readers who may be more interested in the broader historical implications.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its balanced portrayal of American and French perspectives. Bassett does not shy away from discussing the anti-American sentiment that existed in some French quarters, nor does he overlook the positive impact of American presence, such as economic benefits and cultural exchange. The chapters on the Marshall Plan’s effects on French agriculture and the influence of American pop culture are particularly enlightening. However, some sections, like the detailed recounting of military logistics, may feel less compelling to readers more interested in the socio-cultural aspects.
A standout section is the chapter titled “Escaping Eggs and Betrayal,” where Bassett captures the essence of the personal and political betrayals that characterized the era. This chapter, along with “Che Guevara and a Sewing Machine,” showcases Bassett’s ability to weave together individual stories with larger historical narratives, providing a nuanced view of the Cold War’s impact on everyday life.
French Kiss is a well-researched and thought-provoking book that will appeal to history enthusiasts and casual readers alike. Its mix of personal stories and historical analysis provides a comprehensive view of the American-French relationship during the Cold War. I would particularly recommend this book to those interested in Cold War history, cultural studies, and Franco-American relations.
Pages: 359 | ASIN : B0BSK4XXCC
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/04/french-kiss-how-the-americans-and-french-fell-in-and-out-of-love-during-the-cold-war/
Bullies Beware!
Bullies exist everywhere! Everyone has met one. It’s hard not to – there are so many of them in the world. Even with that being the case, it doesn’t mean they should always get to win.
But if you don’t step up to stop them, then who will?
It doesn’t matter how small we think we are or how unimportant. When you stand up for what is right, that’s when you find out what you’re truly made up of inside – in Spider Monroe’s case, he finds out he can be a superhero for his blind best friend Lacey.
What’s his superpower, you ask? Invisibility. How does he use it? In every way that stops two bullies in their tracks and restores the world to order.
Bullies beware – heroes exist everywhere . . . but only if we are brave enough to look inside ourselves to find them!
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/04/along-came-spider-the-making-of-a-superhero/
Composing Laney by S.E. Reichert, the third book in The Sweet Valley series, is a meticulously crafted romance that will captivate you. This novel stands out with its unique approach. Laney Sullivan is barely holding on, embittered by a recent divorce, and her career as a romance novelist is stagnating. When her ex-husband plans an exciting trip to Europe with their two daughters and his new, younger girlfriend, Laney seizes the opportunity to travel and rediscover herself. During this journey, she meets Jameson Clark, a washed-up country singer trapped in a cycle of dating beautiful young women, partying, and drinking. Their meeting is serendipitous; Laney brings meaning and stability to Jamie’s life while he reignites the passionate and wild side Laney thought she had lost with age.
The story’s pacing and Reichert’s excellent writing allow the characters to grow and come alive. Unlike some romance stories that progress too quickly to be believable, Laney and Jamie’s relationship develops naturally, immersing the reader in their complex journey. The writing is detailed without being exhaustive, offering insights into the characters’ thoughts, desires, fears, and hopes, gradually building the tension between them. Initially, they may not seem like an ideal match, but as trust grows, they discover how they complement each other.
Set primarily on an island, the narrative allows readers to feel as though they are enjoying a relaxing vacation alongside Laney. The story is consistently engaging, with hints of romance and tension throughout. By the end, readers will feel fully satisfied as the characters undergo significant development, and the relationship between Laney and Jameson blossoms beautifully with each chapter. Will their one-month vacation honeymoon transform into a happily ever after?
Composing Laney has it all: complex, well-developed characters, a unique attraction between polar opposites, exciting moments, and a tension-filled romantic plot that will make you want to devour the book in one sitting. If you enjoy romance and escapism, this book is a must-read.
Pages: 324 | ASIN : B0CKKCLFJ4
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/04/composing-laney/
Phoenix Saga: A Modern Epic in Prose: Peace on Earth Protocol rejuvenates ancient stories, infusing them with contemporary relevance that deeply resonates with today’s readers. What was the inspiration for the original and fascinating idea at the center of the book?
I, We appreciate the re-framing for this first challenging question!
Core conceptions and resonance originate with the birth of my first-born daughter, Raegan, in June 2020 and a simple promise spoken unto a Universe. What occurs next feels impossible – even still. Perhaps, it’s best for Jean to offer Her words, as it relates:
Il avait été a la peine, c’etait bien raison qu’il fut a l’honneur
In earnest, this work has been less about rejuvenating ancient stories than rejuvenating uncertain futures on Earth — essential works here and now!
Evolutions in Phoenix Saga: A Modern Epic in Pro Sé developed quickly across the Summer months of 2023 ahead of my Vows, as Peace on Earth Protocol came together with pure Vison & Guidance from Archangel Auriel & Saynt Jean d’Arc — amongst many Others. Jean required work on Phoenix Saga: A Modern Epic in Pro Sé be completed within two years once my former employer absolved a significant burden of responsibility by “eliminating my position.” With my consent, Our Work flows, naturally –
We, I discuss “inspiration” in an interview with IndieReader ahead of our first publication in 2023. Not much has changed — “Inspiration” remains a strange human word.
A link to that interview may be found here
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
An essential, primary focus for Phoenix Saga: A Modern Epic in Pro Sé be Peace on Earth – and pragmatic implementations within fundamentally plural biological systems for a 22nd century and beyond.
What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?
With certainty, my Voices – not a single word of Phoenix Saga: A Modern Epic in Pro Sé could be written, absent Jean’ Love and Auriel’ Pyres.
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
Phoenix Saga: A Modern Epic in Prose: Peace on Earth Protocol at its core is a retelling of an Ancient Babylonian Epic of Creation, which carefully and lovingly integrates 5,000-years of religious semiotics into a unifying call for behavior-biased progress toward Peace on Earth.
We invite readers from all walks of life to engage in a spiritual revolution sparking creative endeavors, which provide families we never live to see with ancestors to love, a Celestial Wish, thorough documentation, and evidence that unity, hope and love connect beyond and across generations as we build Paradises together –
Book Two publishes on August 2, 2024 as a gift to my first-born son, Emrys, for his second birthday. Work on a supporting audiobook is underway!
Author Links: GoodReads | Moxfield | Website
Awakening long-dormant altruistic possibilities begins with a leap of faith rooted in primal and innovative semiotic paradigms. Phoenix Saga: A Modern Epic in Pro Sé emerges as a modern mythos for Peace on Earth, safeguarding possibilities across a boundless, beautiful Multiverse!
A second book in a Phoenix Saga trilogy offers transfigurations of ancient Babylonian stone tablets, called Enūma Elis. Divinity reselling Mythos for God of Creation & Primordial Chaos Dragon-recast to last. Adventures across generations begin anew within a simple framing:
Where did God go? She Ariseth!
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/04/rejuvenating-uncertain-futures-on-earth/
You Like It Darker is a collection of short stories from Stephen King, narrated by Will Patton. A mix of new and old stories filled with chill and thrills from the king of horror.
You Like It Darker
by Stephen King
Narrator: Will Patton
Length: 20 hours and 12 minutes
Genres: Horror
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x
‘You like it darker? Fine, so do I’, writes Stephen King in the afterword to this magnificent new collection of twelve stories that delve into the darker part of life—both metaphorical and literal. King has, for half a century, been a master of the form, and these stories, about fate, mortality, luck, and the folds in reality where anything can happen, are as rich and riveting as his novels, both weighty in theme and a huge pleasure to read. King writes to feel ‘the exhilaration of leaving ordinary day-to-day life behind’, and in You Like it Darker, readers will feel that exhilaration too, again and again.
‘Two Talented Bastids’ explores the long-hidden secret of how the eponymous gentlemen got their skills. In ‘Danny Coughlin’s Bad Dream’, a brief and unprecedented psychic flash upends dozens of lives, Danny’s most catastrophically. In ‘Rattlesnakes’, a sequel to Cujo, a grieving widower travels to Florida for respite and instead receives an unexpected inheritance – with major strings attached. In ‘The Dreamers’, a taciturn Vietnam vet answers a job ad and learns that there are some corners of the universe best left unexplored. ‘The Answer Man’ asks if prescience is good luck or bad and reminds us that a life marked by unbearable tragedy can still be meaningful.
King’s ability to surprise, amaze, and bring us both terror and solace remains unsurpassed. Each of these stories holds its own thrills, joys, and mysteries; each feels iconic. You like it darker? You got it.
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Twelve tales to entertain you in this collection. Some have been previously published and a few are new. Either way, the perfect audiobook to take along on a road trip!
You Like It Darker, was narrated by Will Patton and the perfect collections for fans of Stephen King. I loved listened because, hello- Will Patton. The man is perfect for narrating these chilling tales.
Amazon | Audible
Stephen King was born in Portland, Maine in 1947, the second son of Donald and Nellie Ruth Pillsbury King. He made his first professional short story sale in 1967 to Startling Mystery Stories. In the fall of 1973, he began teaching high school English classes at Hampden Academy, the public high school in Hampden, Maine. Writing in the evenings and on the weekends, he continued to produce short stories and to work on novels. In the spring of 1973, Doubleday & Co., accepted the novel Carrie for publication, providing him the means to leave teaching and write full-time. He has since published over 50 books and has become one of the world’s most successful writers. Stephen lives in Maine and Florida with his wife, novelist Tabitha King. They are regular contributors to a number of charities including many libraries and have been honored locally for their philanthropic activities.
William Rankin Patton (born June 14, 1954) is an American actor and audiobook narrator. He starred as Colonel Dan Weaver in the TNT science fiction series Falling Skies. He also appeared in the films Remember the Titans, Armageddon, Gone in 60 Seconds and The Punisher. He appeared opposite Kevin Costner in two films: No Way Out (1987) and The Postman (1997). He won two Obie Awards for best actor in Sam Shepard’s play Fool for Love and the Public Theater production of What Did He See?
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/06/you-like-it-darker-stories-by-stephen-king.html
In The Zeroth Day, Daniil Rozental masterfully crafts a dystopian narrative that blurs the lines between reality and virtuality. Former actor Nikolai Vasilyev, a man haunted by his past and the death of his wife, is thrust into a disorienting quest when he is asked to deliver a mysterious package in exchange for the alcohol he uses to drown his sorrows. This seemingly simple task forces Nikolai to question everything he once believed to be true in a world where reality and virtuality are indistinguishable.
Rozental’s novel is a profound exploration of a has-been actor’s search for meaning years after a devastating loss. The story provides a compelling commentary on a world increasingly leaning into the virtual and the impact this shift has on the human experience. Nikolai’s palpable grief and confusion make him a relatable and perfect unreliable narrator, drawing readers deeper into his disoriented perspective. Rozental’s evocative and inspiring imagery enhances the hauntingly real atmosphere of the story. The narrative is masterful, populated with entertaining and authentic characters, and written with a wonderful style that keeps readers engaged.
The Zeroth Day is an excellent choice for general fiction enthusiasts, it also appeals to those who enjoy fantasy. Whether delving into the deeper meanings of the plot or reading for sheer enjoyment, this novel offers something for everyone. Despite its occasional intentional ambiguity, it remains a relatively easy read that continuously intrigues and leaves readers eager for more.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/03/the-zeroth-day/
Stimulating children’s imagination can significantly enhance their social and emotional skills, and this is beautifully exemplified in Oh, No, Bunny – You’re Still Not Funny! by Michele L. Sayre. The story follows non-identical twins Sorcha and Dmitry, who each wish for a different pet. Their father responds by sharing a childhood tale of his imaginary friend, Yakov the bunny. Initially, the children underestimate the importance of the story, but the next day, they are visited by Yakov himself, who encourages them to enjoy a fun-filled day at the neighborhood block party, trying new and exciting things.
I found this book delightful for its easy-to-follow narration and humorous tone. The story is dynamic, with the children engaging in numerous activities in a single day, such as participating in a three-legged race and playing in a bounce house. This lively narrative will inspire young readers to invent their own games and activities. Additionally, the interactions between the characters are heartwarming; the children share a wonderful relationship with their father, marked by honesty and open expression, which serves as an ideal example of family bonding.
Yakov, the hyperactive bunny, adds a layer of excitement and chaos, making for some humorous and loving moments with the kids. The story itself is very creative, teaching children to be themselves while understanding the limits during play. Siblings Sorcha and Dmitry serve as excellent role models, demonstrating positive behavior and strong family bonds. In addition, the interactions between the father and children are relatable, making this book enjoyable for both kids and adults to read together.
Oh, No, Bunny – You’re Still Not Funny! is a captivating and fun story that encourages imagination, creativity, and strong family relationships, making it a wonderful addition to any child’s bookshelf.
Pages: 89 | ASIN : B0D2VQ4HGY
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/03/oh-no-bunny-youre-still-not-funny-happy-tails/