Sophia Rose is here with another Pride and Prejudice variation. Check out her thoughts on the historical romance novel, Take His Likeness by Lyndsay Constable.

Take His Likeness
by Lyndsay Constable
Genres: Historical Romance
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Sir,
Scorn me if you must, but let it be done for reasons that are just and true. The idea of you moving through the world with disdain for me based on false notions is too much to bear. Once I have given you all the reasons for my deceptions, if you still choose to hold me in contempt, it will be done honestly.

ELIZABETH BENNET has a secret. The finances of Longbourn are more dire than is generally known and she has been forced by necessity to help keep food on the table of her family home. Her secret is safe. Until the night the handsome face and kind attentions of Fitzwilliam Darcy lay claim to her affections.

FITZWILLIAM DARCY is in dangerously low spirits. He cannot forgive himself for his mistakes in judgment that almost caused his young sister to marry George Wickham. This visit to Hertfordshire was supposed to cheer him. But nothing works until that odd night in the library…

Take His Likeness is a Pride and Prejudice Variation with a nod towards Jane Eyre. It has a touch of Magical Realism, Elizabeth in disguise, Elizabeth falls first, and a Happily Ever After for Elizabeth and Darcy.

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Sophia Rose’s Review

A mysterious woman tarot reader, fortunes and futures foretold, and a classic romance gets a little extra help when the stars don’t align.  Lyndsay Constable brings the old arcane art of tarot reading into her retelling of Pride & Prejudice with fortuitous results.

Take His Likeness was described as a Pride & Prejudice variation with a nod to Jane Eyre.  This determined me in reading it with high anticipation.  Take His Likeness does indeed delivery one scene that was highly familiar from the Jane Eyre novel with the rest of the story strongly settled in Jane Austen’s classic.

Following closely the events and characters of Austen’s Pride & Prejudice, Take His Likeness had a couple of significant deviations that do cause the beginning of the story to play out slightly differently. 

The Bennet family are indeed low-rung status as gentry, but their finances are in even poorer condition due to some bad investments on her father’s part and no real entrepreneurial spirit and a great deal of laziness on his part to do anything more. 

So second daughter, Elizabeth Bennet, is determined to help keep her family afloat.  The family housekeeper gives her the means when she puts into her hands her grandmother’s Italian Tarot deck and she discovers the secret passage to the abandoned cottage next door.  Elizabeth disguises herself as an old wise woman who tells fortunes and makes simple magical talismans with the money supporting her family’s very needs.  Elizabeth is rather successful at her craft because she relies on her keen observation skills and the chain of servants’ gossip that Hill shares with her to know her clients well so predictions are more accurate.

Then, the party of people come to the nearby estate setting the neighborhood, including the Bennets in a stir.  Ambition, deceit, hopeful hearts, misunderstandings, and tender feelings abound among the cast of characters.  Elizabeth’s vaunted ability to read people has always been her strength, but something about the handsome, wealthy, and aloof Fitzwilliam Darcy defies her ability and tangles up her emotions.  She lets one bad impression guide her in ‘taking his likeness’ and complications ensue. 

Take His Likeness is a low-angst class difference romance among a pair who had their faults and just needed a chance to grow past them.  The tone was gentle with subtle rises in tension and some lags in pacing toward the middle.  There was an interesting study of characters at the beginning when Elizabeth in disguise read cards for each of the principle players.  I was hoping to see more come of this when it came to certain ambitious or nefarious types like Miss Bingley, Mr. Wickham, Lady Catherine, and even Mr. Collins. 

Most of the focus shifted to the romance pair and how Elizabeth ‘read’ Darcy and how her secret would affect matters.  Darcy had to get over his arrogance and Lizzy had to see she wasn’t infallible with her ability to read people when one man pricked her vanity and another stroked it.  I liked seeing them both learn and grow as the narration shifted back and forth between them. 

Taking His Likeness ended satisfactorily and left me smiling when Elizabeth got to see what Darcy kept as his hidden treasures after all was said and done.  This is a variation, but it didn’t venture far from canon, for the most part so I’ll describe it as more of a sweet classical romance retelling for recommendation purposes.

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/07/take-his-likeness-by-lyndsay-constable.html

In Blue Anomaly by J.K. Bunta, astrophysicist Dr. Tristan Smolensky embarks on a mission as Earth’s primary representative to investigate signals from a distant star that potentially indicates intelligent life. As he approaches the star, Tristan’s reality begins to fragment, raising questions about whether the star or its signals harbor a more sinister nature or if the journey through space is inducing a hallucinogenic breakdown. The forthcoming answers defy both Tristan’s and the reader’s expectations.

Bunta’s novel falls under the category of hard science fiction, grounded in established scientific theory and existing technology. This genre strives for hyper-realism, with events that can be explained through biophysics, human biochemistry, and similar scientific disciplines. Bunta’s scientific background lends credibility to his storytelling, creating a narrative that is as plausible as it is captivating.

Fans of space madness films like “Moon” or Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” may find familiar themes in “Blue Anomaly.” Despite its scientific foundation, Bunta skillfully weaves in literary elements that are both eerie and emotionally resonant. Tristan’s quest to uncover the source of the star’s signals leads to revelations, but it also opens doors to deeper mysteries. This interplay between scientific plausibility and imaginative storytelling is what defines exceptional science fiction. At its core, this book explores the pressing questions of human nature and existence while venturing into the unknown. The book masterfully balances scientific rigor with imaginative exploration, creating a journey that is intellectually stimulating and thought-provoking. The ending may leave some questions unanswered, but it solidifies the bond between protagonist and reader, ensuring that the journey is memorable.

Blue Anomaly is a compelling blend of scientific authenticity and literary creativity. Bunta’s expertise in science enriches the narrative, while his storytelling transports readers on an unforgettable journey through the cosmos.

Pages: 193 | ASIN : B0D5TM2VHD

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/31/blue-anomaly/

The Cosmic Ballet takes young readers on a whimsical journey through the universe, narrating the magical spectacle of a solar eclipse. This children’s book captures the celestial event with a delightful rhythm, telling the story from the perspectives of the Sun, Moon, and Earth as they come together for this rare cosmic dance. With lyrical verses and enchanting imagery, it invites readers to witness the wonder and science of the solar eclipse in a way that feels like a bedtime story crossed with a planetarium show.

I was enchanted by the playful and poetic writing. The author does a fantastic job of personifying the celestial bodies, giving the Sun, Moon, and Earth distinct and charming personalities. I loved how the Sun exclaims, “Today is unique… It’s time for show-and-tell; let’s brighten the air!” This line perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the book, promising an adventure that’s both educational and entertaining. The rhyme scheme flows effortlessly, making it a joy to read aloud.

The description of the Moon “twirling and swaying” and the Sun “wrapping Moon in a cozy hug tight” is a beautiful metaphor for the eclipse. It’s a brilliant way to explain the concept of a solar eclipse to children without losing the sense of wonder and awe. Another highlight for me was the emotional depth and inspiration woven into the narrative. The ending, where a child dreams of “dancing among the stars,” and her mother’s encouraging words, “Chase your dreams my child, have no fear,” left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling.

The watercolor artwork by Jeanne Ee is nothing short of magical as it transforms each page into a standalone masterpiece. The blend of soft, dreamy hues and intricate details creates an immersive visual experience, making every page a captivating piece of art that beautifully complements the poetic narrative. Jeanne Ee’s illustrations are a true celebration of the celestial ballet, adding an extra layer of magic to this delightful story.

The Cosmic Ballet: A Solar Eclipse Adventure is a gem of a book that would be perfect for children, parents, educators, and anyone who loves the night sky. It’s an educational tool wrapped in a poetic narrative, making learning about space an enchanting experience.

Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0D18CRW57

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/31/the-cosmic-ballet-a-solar-eclipse-adventure/

Isabel by E. L. Schoeman is an intricate tapestry of love, destiny, and the fight against societal norms. The story follows Isabel, a strong-willed young woman who defies the constraints placed upon her by a rigid society. Her journey is marked by her passionate relationships with Mathew, Charlie, and a host of other vivid characters, as she navigates through love, loss, and the haunting specter of fate. The novel weaves a rich narrative filled with historical depth and emotional complexity, inviting readers into a world where the boundaries between right and wrong, love and duty, are constantly challenged.

The prose is lyrical and immersive, drawing readers into the atmospheric settings and the inner turmoil of the characters. The description of the prison where Isabel finds herself is chillingly vivid, encapsulating her despair and the oppressive environment around her. This kind of descriptive power is prevalent throughout the book, making it a truly sensory experience. The characters are another highlight. Isabel herself is a compelling protagonist whose determination and resilience make her a figure to root for. Her interactions with Mathew and Charlie, especially, are charged with tension and emotional depth. Mathew’s mysterious and often dark persona contrasts sharply with Charlie’s steadfast loyalty, creating a dynamic that keeps readers engaged. The dialogue between characters, such as the philosophical exchanges about fate and societal constraints between Isabel and Charlie, adds layers of meaning to the narrative. While sections of the story offer deep insights into the characters’ psyches, adding rich layers to the narrative, they encourage readers to savor the depth of the characters. The shifts between past and present create a complex and engaging timeline, inviting readers to pay close attention and fully immerse themselves in the story’s progression.

Isabel is a richly crafted novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction with a strong emotional core and complex characters. Its poetic prose and the moral questions it raises make it a thought-provoking read. I would highly recommend it to fans of character-driven stories and those who appreciate a blend of romance, history, and introspection.

Pages: 315 | ASIN : B0BTKJ848N

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/31/isabel/

Willie Lost, But Not Really by Deborah Tonken is a charming children’s book that explores the natural world and the harmony between species within it. The story follows young Alora, a nature-loving girl from Maine, who discovers a newborn harbor seal pup by the sea and names him Willie, inspired by William Corbett, a historic lighthouse keeper and coastal guard.

Alora’s deep appreciation for nature is evident as she watches over Willie from a safe distance, ensuring his mother returns to him safely. This act of kindness and wisdom highlights Alora’s maturity beyond her years, as she understands the importance of not interfering with wildlife. Tonken’s storytelling is both quirky and sweet, capturing the essence of a child’s connection with nature. Alora’s cleverness and knowledge of the natural world are commendable, making her a relatable and inspiring character for young readers.

The narrative, dedicated to the author’s granddaughter, adds a personal and heartwarming touch, emphasizing the strong bond that develops between Alora and Willie. Through Alora’s perspective, readers learn interesting facts about harbor seal pups and the importance of maintaining a respectful distance from wild animals. The story concludes with Willie safely reuniting with his mother and eventually growing into a strong, happy seal. The book’s illustrations are visually stunning, using vibrant colors and intricate details to bring the natural world to life. These illustrations vividly depict the sea, animals, and landscapes, enhancing the story’s appeal and helping children appreciate the beauty of nature.

Willie Lost, But Not Really is an engaging way to teach young children about the importance of preserving nature and its elements. The book encourages a sense of curiosity and respect for the environment, making it an excellent resource for fostering an early love of the natural world in children.

Pages: 41 | ASIN : B0D2B128TK

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/31/willie-lost-but-not-really/

That Guy by Larry Hankin offers a vibrant dive into the life of its author, a stand-up comedian turned actor whose journey through the pulsating heart of show business is nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. From precarious beginnings in Greenwich Village to navigating the highs and lows of Hollywood, Hankin intersperses his tale with encounters with iconic figures like John Huston, Lenny Bruce, and Bob Dylan. This autobiography is as much about the grit and glamour of the entertainment world as it is about personal resilience and transformation.

This book is a delightful read, brimming with juicy backstage stories and heartfelt moments that make you feel like you’re catching up with an old friend over coffee. Hankin’s knack for storytelling shines as he draws us into his world, packed with eclectic characters and pivotal moments that shaped his career and personality. The book excels in depicting a wide array of individuals—from mentors and icons to rivals and friends—who influenced Hankin’s career and life. The narrative can sometimes feel disjointed, especially when transitioning from one era to another, which might leave readers wanting a smoother storytelling experience. While the insider anecdotes are fascinating, they occasionally overshadow broader thematic developments, making some sections feel more like a collection of vignettes rather than a cohesive story. The book’s engaging style and rich detail effectively portray the entertainment industry’s challenging yet rewarding nature. Themes of perseverance, identity, and transformation resonate throughout the text, making it a worthwhile read for anyone fascinated by the complexities of celebrity life or seeking inspiration in overcoming their hurdles.

Larry Hankin’s witty and reflective style, along with his ability to draw vivid characters and settings, makes That Guy a notable addition to the autobiography genre. For fans of showbiz tales and personal journeys alike, That Guy offers a unique glimpse into a life well-lived and hard-won victories in the face of adversity.

Pages: | ASIN : B0CW18F4D3

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/31/that-guy/