Why did it take them so long? The warning signs were clear to see. Long before the debate on June 27, Joe Biden was unpopular. Since September 2021 his approval ratings had been negative, and since early 2023 they had trended downward. In most pre-debate polls he ran behind an also unpopular Republican nominee. Plenty […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/07/30/late-to-the-party-democrats-biden/

A Dead Man’s Favor by Chris Tullbane is the fifth audiobook in this delightful urban fantasy series. Narrated by Joel Richards, John is dealing with negotiations as the local supernatural mediator in San Diego. He’s also doing a favor for the local zombie prince, which only brings trouble. Addictive, with a dash of humor and lots of action.

A Dead Man’s Favor
by Chris Tullbane
Series: The Many Travails of John Smith #5
Narrator: Joel Richards
Length: 16 hours and 32 minutes
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x

Now that he’s back home in San Diego, life is looking up for John Smith, hapless P.I. and supernatural mediator.

And sure, there may be a few flies in the ointment, like the little matter of an ongoing goblin war, the disappearance of John’s chief mediator rival, and an ever-growing list of questions about the suspicious events of the past few years, but those are all topics for another day. It’s wedding season and the sun is shining, the weather is perfect, and the early fall air is thick with the scent of-

Wait. Is that rotting flesh?

San Diego’s zombie prince, Simon, may be long dead, but his descendants are still around and kicking, and one of them, his great-great granddaughter, just went missing. Now, Simon wants John to track her down.

John has never worked across state lines before, but clearly that’s going to change. And while New Mexico might not be quite as blissful as Catalina Island, it still sounds pretty sweet. After all, John and his friends have already survived gods, witches, werewolves, and the terrifying guacamole shortage of 2013. What sort of challenge could this case possibly offer by comparison?

He’s about to find out.

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I love this series from our human PI, who flies by the seat of his pants and loves a vampire girl. I recommend listening from the beginning to learn how John Smith became a mediator for the supernatural, pissed off a vampire queen, and befriended those in the supernatural community.

So we are back from Italy, and things are going well. John’s in the middle of negations for the goblins when he finds himself and Juliette taking a road trip to Ghost Falls, Mexico. San Diego’s zombie prince, Simon, asks him to find his missing great-great granddaughter. The tale that unfolds had twists, turns and unexpected complications that kept me listening into the wee hours.

John is human, but also unique in that mostly he can resist a vampire’s thrall, can’t be turned by a werewolf and can draw on the power of another. I love the snark, back-and-forth banter and John’s interactions with the Duchess.

We meet new characters, including Kevin. Can I just say I loved Kevin! John also met some interesting creatures in Ghost Falls too and the negotiations were hilarious. The story in some ways felt like several shorts rolled into one story, but Tullbane weaved them all together with a few interesting twists. We see some development in the romance department too, but these lips are sealed.

Joel Richards continues to narrate the series and does a stellar job with giving voice to all the characters and their personalities. He takes the story and elevates it, which is why I recommend listening to them.

I cannot wait for the next audiobook in the Many Travails of John Smith series.

Amazon* | Audible

*Available in KindleUnlimited

Reading this book contributed to these challenges:

• 2024 Audiobook Challenge

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/07/a-dead-mans-favor-chris-tullbane.html

When It All Falls Down by Chinedu Achebe is a poignant exploration of the Nigerian American experience through the lens of a family navigating the complex landscape of contemporary issues. The story follows Obi Ifeanyi and his wife Nkechi as they grapple with personal and societal challenges, ranging from raising their children to dealing with the fallout of past mistakes. Achebe weaves a narrative that is both intimate and expansive, touching on themes of identity, resilience, and the unending quest for understanding in a world that often feels fractured.

Achebe’s writing is both engaging and thought-provoking. I found myself particularly drawn to the authentic dialogue between characters, which brings their personalities and struggles to life. The opening chapter, ‘Mamba Out,’ sets the tone with a lively debate between Obi and Nkechi about the NFL boycott in support of Colin Kaepernick. This scene not only highlights the couple’s dynamic but also roots the story in real-world issues that many readers will find relatable.

One thing I particularly enjoyed about this book was the reflective nature of Obi’s journey. His interactions with family, especially his uncle Ugo, provide deep insights into the historical and cultural contexts that shape his identity. In the chapter ‘Revisiting Biafra,’ Ugo’s recounting of his experiences during the Nigerian-Biafran war is both heartbreaking and enlightening. It underscores the importance of remembering and learning from the past, a theme that Achebe skillfully integrates throughout the book.

I enjoyed this book, but I felt there were moments where the pacing felt a bit uneven. Some chapters, like ‘Black Nostalgic,’ delve deeply into personal anecdotes and reflections, which, while enriching, sometimes slow the narrative’s momentum. Despite this, these moments are rich with character development and offer a deeper understanding of the familial bonds and individual growth that define the Ifeanyi family.

When It All Falls Down is a compelling read that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in contemporary fiction that tackles real-world issues with sensitivity and depth. Achebe’s storytelling is heartfelt and honest, making it easy to connect with the characters and their journeys. This book is perfect for readers who appreciate stories about family, cultural identity, and the resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges.

Pages: 154 | ASIN : B0CYY8C66N

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/30/when-it-all-falls-down/

Rufus Finds His Way Home is a touching and beautifully illustrated children’s book that captures the essence of kindness, devotion, and the universal need for love. Based on the author’s true-life story, the narrative unfolds at a bustling international school in Thailand, where the compassionate teacher Mr. Parsons discovers a family of lost dogs on the school grounds. Mr. Parsons, known for his big heart, decides to build a shelter for the dogs, demonstrating a profound act of kindness. As he cares for the animals, he forms a special bond with the frailest puppy, Rufus. This connection becomes so deep that Mr. Parsons often finds himself lost in thought about Rufus, even to the point of losing his house key. The story takes a dramatic turn when Rufus goes missing, plunging Mr. Parsons into a frantic search that leads him all over the school grounds, including a dive into the pool. Despite his best efforts, Rufus remains elusive, creating a suspenseful and emotional journey for Mr. Parsons.

What makes Rufus Finds His Way Home particularly captivating is its heartfelt message about the power of love and kindness. Through the characters’ experiences, young readers learn the importance of caring for all creatures and recognizing that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, deserves love. This story is not just about a lost puppy; it’s a testament to the bonds that can form between humans and animals and the impact of compassion. The illustrations are a significant highlight of the book, bringing the story to life with vivid and heartwarming imagery. They complement the narrative beautifully, making the emotions and experiences of Mr. Parsons and Rufus even more relatable and poignant.

Rufus Finds His Way Home is a delightful and memorable read for children. It delivers an important lesson in a way that is both engaging and accessible. The story of Mr. Parsons and Rufus is one that will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page, reminding them of the enduring power of kindness and love in our diverse world.

Pages: 49 | ASIN : B0D73XG63X

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/30/rufus-finds-his-way-home/

Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes To The Beach is a delightful children’s book that transports young readers to a sun-soaked, fun-filled day at the beach with the exuberant character Gigglet. From the moment Gigglet extends her cheerful invitation, the reader is enveloped in an atmosphere of joy and laughter.

The story is simple yet engaging, ideal for young children. The repetition of playful phrases like “giggle, giggle, giggle” and “gaggle, gaggle, gaggle” not only entertains but also helps to develop early reading skills through rhythm and repetition. This clever use of language makes the book an excellent choice for read-aloud sessions, ensuring that both children and adults will be laughing together. The illustrations are vibrant and full of life, perfectly capturing the whimsical and carefree spirit of a day at the beach. Each page is a visual treat, with Gigglet’s infectious enthusiasm practically leaping off the pages. The bright colors and dynamic scenes are sure to captivate young readers, keeping them engaged from start to finish. One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to convey a sense of adventure and fun without being overly complex. It’s a story that encourages children to embrace joy, friendship, and the simple pleasures of life, like spending a sunny day by the sea. Gigglet’s bubbly personality is contagious, making her an endearing character that children will want to revisit again and again.

Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes To The Beach is a charming and cheerful addition to any child’s bookshelf. Its blend of engaging text, delightful illustrations, and the ever-joyful Gigglet make it a must-read for young children.

Pages: 20 | ASIN : B0DBFQKNHJ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/30/gigglet-the-happy-little-piglet-goes-to-the-beach/

Purposeful Performance is a compelling guide for leaders and professionals seeking to infuse their work with greater meaning and value. The book advocates for a shift from profit-centric models to purpose-driven approaches that prioritize empathy, employee well-being, and community impact. Through practical strategies and insightful anecdotes, Stanley lays out a roadmap for creating sustainable success by aligning business goals with deeper, more meaningful objectives.

One of the standout aspects of the book is Stanley’s emphasis on the importance of cultivating a thriving workplace culture. He argues that companies should prioritize employee well-being as much as financial success, suggesting that a people-focused approach can significantly enhance productivity and loyalty. The book provides actionable advice on how to attract and retain employees who are aligned with the company’s values and purpose.

Another strength of the book is its detailed framework for strategic planning. Stanley introduces the concept of MEAN (meaningful, exact, actionable, and necessary) goals, which he contrasts with the traditional SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound) goals. This fresh perspective encourages readers to aim higher and push beyond perceived limitations, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. I found the discussion on the pitfalls of conventional strategic planning particularly enlightening, as it underscores the need for simplicity and clarity in goal setting.

Stanley’s insights into leadership accountability are also noteworthy. He emphasizes that true leadership involves more than just setting goals, it requires transparent communication, fostering a sense of ownership among employees, and being willing to hold oneself and others accountable for their actions. This approach not only drives performance but also builds trust and engagement within the team. The practical tips for addressing performance issues and supporting team members in achieving their best work are both realistic and inspiring.

I think Purposeful Performance is an invaluable resource for leaders, business owners, and professionals who aspire to create meaningful and lasting impact through their work. Stanley’s practical advice, combined with his passion for purpose-driven success, makes this book a must-read for anyone looking to align their professional goals with deeper personal values.

Pages: 353 | ASIN : B0D7T72P2M

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/30/purposeful-performance-the-secret-mix-of-connecting-leading-and-succeeding/

Borealis follows a man with the ability to transport himself through time who discovers secrets about himself and works to save the people of Yand. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

Ah, it’s not a man. It’s a young boy. It’s a coming-of-age story of an inadvertent blinker boy who finds himself in the middle of active warfare. It is a story of survival under extreme adversity, of danger, bravery, and resilience, and the ingenuity of creating a sense of normalcy amid the chaos. Many undertones of my childhood, growing up in a war zone. But like always, I infuse a light touch and humor where allowed. Meet and fall in love with Sunny, and see how he saves the world(!). He’s one of my favorite characters, way up there with Wolfpack and Snowfox.

All your characters have unique and original names; how do you come up with character names for your stories?

I draw my characters’ names from their backgrounds, environments, personalities. For example, I began the Worldmaker^TM Saga in the star system of Yildun, which is a real star in the Ursa Minor constellation. Yildun means star, and I derived all primary names from it. The planet is Yand. The inhabited moon is Yenda. The worldmakers who manifest their power from this star are Yanara, Yira, Yileen, Yolinda. Yanara’s brother is Yildiz, which also starts with Y and means star.

All the goldenbloods (the bright Yandar race) have names that signify brightness, light, shine, luminance. Hence, Lucent, Flash, Blaze, Stardust.

Yanara’s children have names that reflect their personalities and abilities and also link them to their companions: Dragonlord is a dragoon (strongest mage) and is bonded to a dragon. Wolfpack, who is pathfinder, is like the alpha wolf, the leader. Sunny, well, I don’t want to spill the beans. You’ll see after reading Borealis. If not, please ask me again.

What author in your genre do you most admire, and why?

Tolkien for Fantasy. Do I need to elaborate? He’s the Master.

Anne McCaffrey, also fantasy, for her vivid world-building and characters.

Steven Brust for the first-person narration. Absolutely brilliant.

Can you tell us more about what’s in store for the people of Yand and the direction of the second book?

Ah, Borealis IS the second book in the Chronicles of Phe’lak.

Queen of Highwings is the first book.

The third book will be coming in 2025. It is titled The Beast of Phe’lak. You hear it first right here. I’m very excited about it. It features Dragonlord, whom I have been dying to write about, his dragon, Lavender, and his Yendal partner, Squirrel.

If I may add, in addition to the E-Book on Amazon, the printed book formats offer spectacular 2-page illustrated openings of every chapter, and more full-page illustrations throughout. They can be found here:

Paperback with Standard Paper and Inks: (most economical) https://tinyurl.com/jd363xh4

Paperback with Premium Paper and Inks: (most recommended) https://tinyurl.com/444hv9v4

Hardbound Premium Edition: (spectacular!) https://tinyurl.com/4s7y6ecm

Author links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/30/creating-a-sense-of-normalcy-amid-the-chaos/