The majority opinion in Trump v. United States, the most sweeping judicial reconstruction of the American presidency in history, secures the monumental historic disgrace of the John Roberts Court. Since last winter, the Supreme Court has intervened directly in the 2024 presidential campaign by effectively shielding Donald Trump from being tried on major federal charges […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/08/15/the-dred-scott-of-our-time/
The Supreme Court in its just-concluded 2023–2024 term extended substantial new rights to hedge fund managers, big business, and former president Donald Trump, while denying constitutional protection to homeless people punished for sleeping in public, Black voters in South Carolina, and an American citizen whose noncitizen husband was denied a visa without explanation. This is […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/08/15/the-supreme-courts-power-grab/
Sophia Rose is here with the second Porter Beck Mystery, Shades of Mercy by Bruce Burgos. Come check out her thoughts on this mystery thriller set in the high desert of Nevada.
Shades of Mercy
by Bruce Burgos
Series: Porter Beck #2
Genres: Thriller
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
In the usually quiet high desert of Nevada, Sheriff Porter Beck faces one of his greatest challenges—a series of unlikely, disturbing and increasingly deadly events of unknown origins.
Porter Beck is the sheriff in the high desert of Nevada, doing the same lawman’s job his father once did now that he’s returned home after decades away. With his twelve person department, they cover a large area that is usually very quiet, but not of late. One childhood friend is the latest to succumb to a new wave of particularly strong illegal opioids, another childhood friend—now an enormously successful rancher—is targeted by a military drone, hacked and commandeered by an unknown source. The hacker is apparently local—local enough to call out Beck by name—and that means they are Beck’s problem.
Beck’s investigation leads him to Mercy Vaughn, the one known hacker in the area. The problem is that she’s a teenager, locked up with no computer access at the secure juvenile detention center. But there’s something Mercy that doesn’t sit quite right with Beck. But when Mercy disappears, Beck understands that she’s in danger and time is running out for all of them.
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A military drone is hacked, lethal fentanyl is rampant, forest fires rage, a large convoy of alien conspiracy theorists have descended, and a mysterious young girl is at the center of it all. Bruce Burgos’ thriller in the rural Lincoln County, Nevada continues the tone, tempo, and tension that drew in readers with the first book, The Bitter Past.
Shades of Mercy is book two in the Porter Beck series offering a standalone thriller and a well-loved returning cast of characters led by Sheriff Porter Beck. Southeastern Nevada full of desert, mountains, a small scattered population, and many hidden secrets including the kind government conspiracy fans get excited about has never been such a hotbed of intrigue. Porter’s staff are stretched thin out helping with the forest fires so he’s investigating the recent fentanyl deaths on his own and he’s got a new weird investigation involving an old high school pal, Jesse, who’s turning his family ranch into a big operation and someone with a unique skillset has hijacked a government drone and targeted Jesse for some reason.
I was very captivated by The Bitter Past and the western setting, complex thriller plot, engaging characters particularly Porter Beck who may be a rural county sheriff staving off a strengthening vision impairment, but is more than meets the eye and Lincoln county maybe rural, but there is plenty of diversity and culture to be had from the setting and peoples.
Picking up Shades of Mercy was a joyful return for more of the same with a new series of seemingly unrelated matters for Porter and his deputies to handle. Naturally, a few big government agency types get involved once again and underestimate Porter and his department when the hacked military equipment has them all stirred up. Porter is a blend of capable professional, laid back country guy, and a man facing the loss of his vision with private vulnerability though no giving in. He’s dealt with his night blindness vulnerability by wearing night vision goggles when he has to respond to night time emergencies (and yes, he drove using them and even is new K-9 partner was terrified for the ride. I got a kick out of him taking on a dog deputy who went through a couple different K-9 special trainings that it flunked out, but still has a role to play as part of the team.
Bruce Burgos’ writing style is easy to read and draws the reader into the world of the book. I found myself unable to put the book down once I got started and reluctantly did so. When I wasn’t reading, I was speculating on where it would go next. Some good twists and surprises along with a riveting final climax that was more a series of climactic moments before the end.
All in all, Shades of Mercy was abso-fab showing that the Porter Beck series is hanging strong through two books and left me with a strong need for a third book. I can’t tout this series enough.
Amazon | Audible
Bruce Borgos lives and writes from the Nevada desert where he works hard every day to prove his high school guidance counselor had good instincts when he said “You’ll never be an astronaut.” He has a lifelong obsession with words and stories and a fascination with how telephones work. When not writing, you can usually find him at the local wine store.
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Sophia is a quiet though curious gal who dabbles in cooking, book reviewing, and gardening. Encouraged and supported by an incredible man and loving family. A Northern Californian transplant to the Great Lakes Region of the US. Lover of Jane Austen, Baseball, Cats, Scooby Doo, and Chocolate.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/07/shades-of-mercy-by-bruce-burgos.html
Lisa Febre, a talented musician and yoga enthusiast, brings her creative flair to her memoir Round the Twist: Facing the Abdominable, which centers on her journey with colon cancer. The title’s play on the word “Abdominable” immediately grabs attention and sets the tone for the book’s blend of humor and inspiration. Febre masterfully weaves her story, offering an unembellished account of her medical experiences while highlighting the critical role of companionship. This memoir not only addresses the physical battle against cancer but also delves into the profound self-reflection that accompanies it.
Febre’s writing is remarkably engaging and transparent. Her vivid recollections, complemented by her reliance on the memories of others, bring authenticity to her narrative. Her storytelling is rich with personality and character, particularly in the way she uses metaphors. A standout story involves her dog, Dusty, who had to wear a cone after an injury. Once freed from it, Dusty destroys the cone, symbolizing Febre’s determination to overcome cancer and chemotherapy, her own “cone,” and envisions tearing it apart. Another poignant section of the memoir deals with the varied reactions of her friends to her diagnosis. Some friends became distant, a reaction that initially upset Febre but one she eventually understood. This part of the book is especially valuable for readers who may be unsure how to support loved ones with a cancer diagnosis. Febre candidly discusses how certain well-meaning phrases can be unhelpful, providing insight into the emotional landscape of cancer patients. Round the Twist is an invaluable memoir not only for those facing cancer but also for medical professionals. Febre extensively acknowledges the crucial support and care she received while also highlighting moments of neglect from some healthcare providers. These experiences underline the importance of seeing patients as individuals rather than just diagnoses. The clarity with which Febre addresses the impact of compassionate care makes this book a must-read for both patients and physicians, emphasizing the human element in medical treatment.
Round the Twist: Facing the Abdominable is a heartfelt and insightful memoir that combines humor, honesty, and profound life lessons. Febre’s ability to inspire and educate through her personal journey makes this book a compelling read for anyone navigating the challenges of cancer or seeking to better understand the patient experience.
Pages: 297 | ASIN : B0CB1SQQLD
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/24/round-the-twist-facing-the-abdominable/
Love, Rage, and Deception is a riveting novel set in London, weaving a tale of family, betrayal, and unexpected kinships. The story follows the tumultuous lives of siblings Kathy and Charles Thomas, who navigate through familial expectations, societal pressures, and personal aspirations. The narrative is deeply rooted in their household’s hidden secrets and the poignant bond they share, which is tested by external conflicts and internal struggles.
The writing is evocative, drawing readers into the historical and emotional landscapes with vivid descriptions and emotional depth. The depiction of the Thomas family’s home, with its secluded charm and the warmth it brings to its inhabitants, serves as a perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama. The author excels in creating a setting that feels both timeless and tangible, making the reader almost feel the cobblestone paths and the cold London winters. One of the novel’s strengths is its character development. Kathy and Charles are portrayed with such authenticity that their growth feels natural and relatable. Kathy’s journey from a spirited child to a burdened young woman, and Charles’ evolution from a supportive brother to a young man grappling with his own identity, are central to the book’s emotional impact. The siblings’ relationship is depicted with nuance, highlighting both their unspoken understanding and the conflicts that arise from their differing paths. The pacing of the story is masterfully handled, allowing the story to unfold with just the right balance of tension and introspection. Each scene is meticulously crafted to build upon the previous one, creating a seamless flow that keeps the reader fully immersed. The author skillfully intersperses moments of high drama with quieter, reflective passages, giving readers time to absorb the emotional weight of the events. This dynamic pacing ensures that the narrative remains engaging and never feels rushed, allowing for a deeper connection with the characters and their journeys.
Love, Rage, and Deception is a fascinating read for those who enjoy historical dramas filled with rich character studies and emotional depth. It is particularly well-suited for readers who appreciate family sagas and the exploration of complex sibling dynamics.
Pages: 134 | ASIN : B09BWP9RGT
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/24/love-rage-and-deception/
Baseball, with its rich history and colorful characters like the irascible Yogi Berra, has enchanted fans for generations. Those who love the game revel in its subtle nuances, from every ground-rule double to dazzling outfield play. Yet, this sport, steeped in tradition, often ventures into the realm of the absurd and hilarious. The audiobook Baseball Humor: A Collection of Stories from Master Storytellers by Ward Paxton takes readers on a delightful journey through the eccentricities of baseball as told by some of the greatest sports fiction writers of all time.
This anthology is a cavalcade of excellent short fiction centered around baseball, with most tales originating from the 1910s and 1920s—a period when the game looked dramatically different from today. Readers will find themselves immersed in baseball’s bygone era, brought to life by literary titans such as Zane Grey and Ring Lardner. Paxton’s collection places readers in good hands. Passionate baseball fans will appreciate not only the meticulous dissection of the game and its cultural significance over a century ago but also the quirks and eccentricities of the fictional characters that make these stories special. While these tales are crafted from pure imagination, baseball historians will recognize the shades of real-life managers and players from the early years of the sport. In this collection, no one connected to baseball is spared from satire. The writers mercilessly ridicule managers, team owners, players’ wives, and even the fans. However, despite the frequent humiliation heaped on the protagonists, there’s an undeniable sense of admiration throughout.
The many authors featured in this anthology clearly cherish the game, even as they highlight some of its more ridiculous tendencies. This blend of good humor and genuine affection for baseball shines through most, making Baseball Humor: A Collection of Stories from Master Storytellers a true winner. Fans of the sport and lovers of well-crafted fiction alike will find much to enjoy in this engaging and entertaining collection.
Listening Length 8 Hours and 10 minutes | ASIN : B0CZF7JL43
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/24/baseball-humor-a-collection-of-stories-from-master-storytellers/
Tasmania is the setting for the third installment of Susan Rogers and John Roosen’s Yoga Mat Mysteries. Tree Pose is the gripping follow-up to Rogers and Roosen’s Cobra Pose. Readers are reintroduced to Ric and Elaina and reminded of their budding romance and the perpetual drama threatening their union. What should be an enjoyable getaway and a chance to cement their relationship thrusts the couple into the precarious position of dodging the repercussions of Ric’s past. When Ric receives a mysterious text on a phone line known only to close associates, he quickly realizes their trip may take a deadly turn.
The audiobook version of Tree Pose, narrated by Rupert Degas, is not to be missed. Throughout the audiobook, the narration varies with a pleasing change of inflection from character to character, making each one equally memorable. Degas adds dramatic pauses and a sense of urgency to the action scenes, building apprehension and creating a fantastic feeling of fear and trepidation throughout the novel. Degas is equally adept at adding a softness to the tender moments Rogers and Roosen have created for main characters Ric and Elaina.
Rogers and Roosen have once more crafted a truly memorable cast of characters embroiled in a thrilling plot. Even though this is the third book and relates directly to events from the previous installments, readers will have no problem following the storyline as the authors have done a wonderful job of building the element of mystery for new readers and keeping fans of the series actively engaged.
I find the authors’ ability to intertwine multiple conflicts throughout the narrative especially appealing. Without leaving the primary conflict behind, they effortlessly manage to keep readers on their toes, following the threat on Elaina’s life as they blend in the desperate search to end a human trafficking conspiracy. There is no lack of action in Book 3, and the perfect assimilation of romance, humor, and mystery for fans of all three genres.
This audiobook captivates readers’ imaginations and draws them into the fascinating mystery behind Ric’s past and the anticipation of a lasting romance with Elaina. Rogers and Roosen never fail to pull readers into the plot and keep them guessing from chapter to chapter. The addition of Rupert Degas’ fantastic skills in audiobook narration makes this a highly recommended audiobook for mystery fans and those seeking a binge-worthy series.
Duration: 10hrs 19min | ASIN: B0D27B231B
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/24/tree-pose-yoga-mat-mysteries-series-audiobook/
Hounds of Gaia follows an elite bounty hunter who is sent on a mission to transport a serial killer that turns from a simple mission into a life-altering adventure. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When I first came up with the idea for The Marrower Saga, it was in the form of music. I wanted to write a concept album, inspired largely by The Mars Volta and Coheed & Cambria, that was a police procedural about a serial killer in space. I even wrote a few songs in the process of developing the idea. As time went by, however, my dreams of being a musician faded, and I refocused myself on writing (which is what I went to school for). Over about a decade, I kept coming back to this idea, turning it over in my mind. Eventually, I decided I had to just sit down and put pen to paper. That seemingly simple act forced the idea to evolve even more, as I had to finally ask myself what kind of story I wanted to tell and what themes I wanted to explore. The basic concept remained—there is still very much a serial killer in space underpinning the story—but the vast majority of the concept changed pretty immensely. I found that I had to imbue the concept with a lot more emotional depth to make it a story worth telling in novel format.
Foxhound is a well-developed character that keeps readers guessing as she uncovers more about her past throughout the book. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Creating Foxhound was an interesting exercise. I didn’t want to create a character that was too much like myself or anyone close to me, but I also needed to inject her characterization with elements of realism. She needed to be confident and self-assured—a function of her career—but she also needed to have some internal conflict, which relates to her larger story and will further unfold as the story continues. She’s a fun character to explore because she’s so task-driven, as her name suggests, but that drive is going to continue to unravel as she has to reckon with who she really is and where she comes from. Her self-assuredness comes less from actual confidence and more from her refusal to self-examine. So forcing her to take a look in the mirror is going to have a pretty big impact on her psyche and how she approaches things. I guess the larger point is that Foxhound is driven by a question we’re all forced to ask (and one that philosophers and artists have pondered for centuries): who (or what) are we, really?
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from and how did it change as you were writing?
I’ve loved science fiction for most of my life. I remember watching Star Wars on VHS over and over again until the tapes themselves were getting warped. But the thing that I always loved the most about sci-fi stories was the human element. Sure, the spectacle is what drew me in, but starships and aliens only get the story so far. Ultimately, I believe sci-fi serves as a vessel for us to explore elements of humanity, be they positive or negative, world-altering in scope or incredibly personal and private. For my world, I wanted to really latch onto that human element and, in some ways, hold a mirror up to current events and developments. What made the most sense for the story I wanted to tell was to create a universe in which humans are utterly alone—there was no first contact, there are no aliens, etc. What do we do, as a species, when we have nothing to rely on but ourselves? So that’s where it all kind of started.
As I got to the writing, however, the world I was trying to create really bloomed. Again, Star Wars (the original trilogy) served as an inspiration—specifically the grittier locales. I remember very vividly how it felt to watch Luke and Obi-Wan walk into the cantina on Tattooine for the first time. It was inelegant, dirty, old, and full of ne’er-do-wells. I really wanted a lot of my locations to feel like that—not quite an apocalyptic dystopia, but like the stations and ships were always in a state of disrepair and just teetering on the brink of collapse. But arguably, the most important part of the setting emerged as I was writing. I realized that grittiness lacks a certain believability when overdone, so I made it a point to try and inject just enough hope and humanity—which, again, I feel like is a reflection of real life. Even in the worst places, there are still these bastions of hope, however small, where people are really trying to help one another survive (and not just for personal gain).
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
I’m in the process of writing book two right now, and I’m hoping to have it wrapped up well before the end of the year. If I can manage that, I’d expect to see book 2 released in early 2025, barring any unforeseen setbacks. Book two will also have a very different vibe, as it leaves behind the gritty edge of the solar system and centers the story on Earth, which is the center of everything—commerce, religion, society, etc. What I’m most excited about is showing that the glitz and gloss of this part of my universe isn’t really any better or safer—just that the facade is prettier. Things are going to get pretty dark, and I hope my readers are excited to go along for the ride.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | Website
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/24/hope-and-humanity/