In 1924, when he was in his mid-twenties, Bertolt Brecht and his frequent collaborator Elisabeth Hauptmann started work on a play set in Chicago. Neither of them had yet lived in America, but the city, with its slick steel skyscrapers and history of strikes, fascinated Brecht as an emblem of the promises and pitfalls of […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/08/22/pitiless-restless-brecht/
I remember reading headlines about this case and listened to the true crime audiobook of Guilty Creatures: Sex, God, and Murder in Tallahassee, Florida, by Mikita Brottman. Narrated by Leon Nixon, this takes us through the entire story and held me captive.
Guilty Creatures
by Mikita Brottman
Narrator: Leon Nixon
Length: 6 hours and 49 minutes
Genres: True Crime
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Narration: 4 cups Speed: 1.5x
From the critically acclaimed author of the “enthralling” ( San Francisco Book Review ) An Unexplained Death , a breathless true crime tale of sex, religion, and murder in the deep South.
On the face of it, Denise Williams and Brian Winchester had the perfect, quintessentially Southern lives. The two were hardworking devout Baptists and together, with their respective spouses, formed a tight-knit friendship that seemed unbreakable. That is, until December 16, 2000, when Denise’s husband Mike disappeared while duck hunting on Lake Seminole on the border of Georgia and Florida.
After no body was found, it was assumed that he had drowned and was consumed by alligators in a tragic accident. But things took an unexpected turn when Brian divorced his wife and married Denise. Their surprising marriage was far from happy and in 2018, he confessed to police he killed Mike with Denise’s help nearly two decades earlier.
Now, the full, shocking story is revealed by Mikita Brottman, acclaimed true crime writer and “one of today’s finest practitioners of nonfiction” ( The New York Times Book Review ). With tenacious investigating and clear-eyed prose, she exposes the dark underbelly of far-right conservative Christianity and how it led Brian to choose murder over adultery. A fascinating and in-depth page-turner, Guilty Creatures is destined to become an instant classic in the true crime genre.
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On December 16, 2000, Denise’s husband Mike disappeared while duck hunting on Lake Seminole on the border of Georgia and Florida. His body was never recovered.
The story that unfolds looks into the lives of Denise Williams and Brian Winchester, as well as their spouses. The four of them were friends in a tight-knit Baptist community in Tallahassee, Florida. Brottman did a wonderful job of laying out the story from backgrounds to facts as they were uncovered and how the truth finally came to light.
The author breaks down the whys of the crime, revealing what built up to Mike’s disappearance and what happened in the aftermath of his death. The story she told was laid out in a compelling way that drew me in and shared facts I wasn’t aware of. Religion, sex, and greed all played a role in this stranger than fiction case.
Fans of true crime will find the Guilty Creatures to be an engrossing tale. Leon Nixon narrates and enhances the overall tale by giving voice to the characters and setting the tone. Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/08/guilty-creatures-sex-god-and-murder-in-tallahassee-florida-by-mikita-brottman.html
Penelope’s Peace Place is an adorable and heartwarming children’s book that tells the story of a young prairie dog named Penelope who lives in the bustling grasslands of central Wyoming. Penelope dreams of finding a quiet place to think her big thoughts away from her large and lively family. Her quest for peace takes her on a charming adventure that ultimately leads her to a surprising realization about the true nature of peace.
First off, Monroe’s writing is delightfully engaging and accessible for young readers. The vivid descriptions of Penelope’s busy Prairie Dog Town, filled with squeaks, chirps, and digging, bring the setting to life. The repetitive phrasing, like “Not today, no time to play!” effectively captures Penelope’s determination to find some quiet time, making it a fun read-aloud experience. One part I really liked was when Penelope finally finds a peaceful spot, only to have it quickly invaded by her sleepy little cousins. This scene humorously illustrates the challenges of finding solitude in a large family and adds a relatable touch for children with similar experiences.
The illustrations by the team from ‘Draw & Care’ are nothing short of fantastic. Their vibrant and expressive artwork complements the story perfectly. The details really bring out the characters’ expressions and make each page a visual treat. I especially loved the image of her younger sister Patty climbing on her, capturing the playful chaos of their daily lives.
Monroe’s story also carries a beautiful and important message about the value of sharing peace with others. Penelope’s journey of seeking solitude only to realize that peace is more meaningful when shared is a great lesson for children. The turning point in the story, where Penelope understands that the peace she found should be shared with her family, underscores the theme of community and togetherness.
Penelope’s Peace Place is a delightful picture book that I highly recommend for young children, especially those who enjoy stories about animals and family life. With its soothing narrative and charming illustrations, it’s perfect for bedtime reading.
Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0D7CWFPL1
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/22/penelopes-peace-place/
Carolyn Summer Quinn’s The Teetotaler’s Bar is a delightful, quirky mystery that blends humor, intrigue, and a bit of heartfelt reflection. The story follows Jazz Kenneally, a young, health-conscious teetotaler who unexpectedly inherits a bar and a fortune from her estranged, half-aunt Lysandra Somersby. However, this isn’t just any bar; it’s a murder scene. Lysandra was shot in cold blood, and Jazz finds herself in the middle of a puzzling whodunit, surrounded by an eclectic cast of characters who each add their own flair to the unfolding mystery.
One of the most engaging aspects of Quinn’s writing is her ability to create a vivid, immersive atmosphere. From the bright, airy bar that defies Jazz’s expectations to the Art Deco elegance of the inherited apartment, every setting is described with such detail that it feels like a character in its own right. The juxtaposition of Jazz’s distaste for alcohol with her new role as a bar owner adds a layer of irony and humor that keeps the narrative lively. Jazz is a relatable protagonist, navigating the unexpected inheritance with a mix of pragmatism and bewilderment. The supporting characters, from the loyal but quirky bar staff to the eccentric tenants of the inherited building, are well-drawn and contribute significantly to the story’s charm. Quinn’s exploration of themes like family estrangement, responsibility, and the dangers of assumptions gives the book a thoughtful edge. Jazz’s reflections on her relationship with her late aunt and the moral dilemmas she faces as a sudden heiress add depth to what could easily have been a light, breezy mystery.
The Teetotaler’s Bar is a charming, offbeat mystery that will appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a mix of humor and suspense. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a cozy mystery with a modern twist, where the protagonist’s journey is as important as the mystery itself. This is a delightful read for a relaxed afternoon, offering both laughs and a few thoughtful moments along the way.
Pages: 167 | ASIN : B0DBFYD5LD
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/22/the-teetotalers-bar/
In Dissonance, Volume Zero: Revelation, author Aaron Ryan introduces us to the seemingly idyllic life of Andrew Dylan Shipley, a man whose world is on the brink of drastic change. When alien creatures arrive on Earth in massive numbers, they initially lie dormant, sparking global anxiety and uncertainty. Andrew, along with his wife Melissa and their children Cameron “Jet,” Wyatt “Rutty,” and Adelynn “Sissy,” anxiously await the moment the aliens will reveal their true intentions. Surprisingly, the aliens remain inactive, leaving humanity in suspense. In response, governments worldwide take precautionary measures, building bunkers for a worst-case scenario—a decision that proves pivotal for the Shipley family. But as they soon discover, life underground presents its own set of challenges, testing their health, faith, and family bonds in ways they never anticipated.
As a prequel to Ryan’s Dissonance trilogy, Revelation stands on its own, requiring no prior knowledge of the series. However, for those familiar with the trilogy, there are moments that will enhance the emotional impact of the story. The novel is rich with tense, emotional scenes as the Shipley family confronts the reality of their situation. Andrew’s primary concern is the safety of his family, but he finds it impossible to shield his young children from the harsh truths of their new reality. One of the novel’s strengths is its portrayal of how these experiences profoundly affect the children. Their development is depicted organically through Andrew’s perspective, a father keenly aware of the subtle changes in his children’s behavior. This adds a deep emotional resonance to the story, making the characters’ growth both believable and impactful. The plot starts at a measured pace, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the Shipley family’s serene life before it takes a dark turn. This deliberate pacing serves to heighten the contrast between their past and the intense, fast-paced events of the latter half of the novel. As the story accelerates, it aligns seamlessly with the tone and direction of the main Dissonance trilogy, leaving readers with tantalizing hints and unanswered questions about the mysterious aliens.
Dissonance, Volume Zero: Revelation is a compelling and emotionally charged prequel that sets the stage for the rest of the trilogy. Ryan expertly balances the tension and development of his characters, making this a must-read for both newcomers and fans of the series alike. If you enjoy science fiction with strong character development and a gripping plot, this book will not disappoint.
Pages: 308 | ASIN : B0CTHT94R7
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/22/dissonance-volume-zero-revelation/
In a world dominated by corruption, where the powerful exploit the weak and human life is disregarded, the Ansaki Devout emerges as a force of chaos. The murder of a corrupt politician sets off a chain of events that transforms ordinary individuals into anonymous heroes, determined to upend the status quo. At the center of this turmoil is a gifted inspector, tasked with tracking down the killer before the situation spirals beyond control. Ansaki Devout by Paul Ogarra is a compelling work of fiction that follows Juan Betardo Solis and a cast of complex characters as they navigate a society on the brink of collapse.
Ogarra’s writing is both thought-provoking and richly detailed, skillfully weaving together a tapestry of interconnected stories that build into a grand and intricate narrative. However, the novel’s shifting perspectives can sometimes be disorienting, making it challenging to keep track of the numerous characters and plot threads. Despite this, the depth and significance of the story remain powerful and impactful. The story doesn’t shy away from the gray areas, making the reader question what it means to be a hero or a villain. This complexity adds layers to the narrative, making it more than just a straightforward thriller. Ogarra’s depiction of the inspector’s journey is both engaging and filled with tension. Watching him piece together the puzzle amid the heavy political and social backdrop was one of the highlights of the book for me. The way Ogarra connects the personal struggles of the characters with the larger, corrupt world they inhabit is particularly compelling. It’s a narrative that resonates on multiple levels, offering both a thrilling plot and a critique of the power dynamics at play in society.
Ansaki Devout is a complex and thought-provoking thriller that will appeal to readers who enjoy diving deep into morally ambiguous characters and intricate storylines. While it’s not a light read, it offers a rewarding experience for those willing to engage with its layered narrative. I would highly recommend this book to fans of political thrillers and anyone interested in stories that challenge conventional notions of right and wrong. Paul Ogarra has crafted a story that lingers in the mind, and I’m eager to see what he brings us next.
Pages: 281 | ASIN : B0CW1G25CV
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/22/ansaki-devout/
Come Home, Papa Jed! follows a family of bears and woodland creatures working together to search for Papa Jed, who did not return as expected from a fishing trip. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for Come Home, Papa Jed! came from a memorable experience my husband Joe and I had some time ago. We visited a secluded fly-fishing resort nestled deep in the woods, where we were the only guests for two nights at a beautiful mansion with large, elegantly decorated rooms, including our own, which featured charming black bear-themed decor. While Joe embarked on a longer fishing excursion with a guide, I decided to explore the estate. Despite my initial apprehension about walking alone in the woods, I was able to release my fears entirely and fully enjoy the experience. I spent hours wandering through the secluded acres and encountered an array of wildlife, one species after another, that seemed to welcome me into their world. As the sun began to set, I had a slightly anxious wait for Joe’s return, and I was so relieved and happy to see him come back safely after his adventure. The entire experience was so enchanting that I documented it with photos and a poetic journal entry. In that original journal entry, I imagined the animals helping Joe find his way home. This idea eventually evolved into the woodland creatures in Come Home, Papa Jed! who join forces to find Papa Jed. The memory and the journal entry I wrote long ago eventually blossomed into the sweet tale of Jed and Daisy, their little ones Huck and Lila, and their supportive community.
One of the highlights of your children’s book is how you captured the emotions of the family, both their anxiety and fear and their relief and joy. What was your approach to writing the interactions between characters?
When writing the interactions between the characters, I aimed to capture tender and genuine moments that reflect the natural world around us. I wanted to highlight the emotions of anxiety, fear, relief, and joy in a way that resonates deeply with readers. Observing wildlife, I’ve seen their fierce loyalty, emotions, and the hard work they put into staying together and caring for their young—qualities that mirror the best of our own and that I find deeply moving. In my book, these scenes are crafted to reveal the gentle and cooperative side of nature, emphasizing the beauty and harmony that can exist even among diverse creatures.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
In Come Home, Papa Jed!, I aimed to convey several key ideas. One of the main themes is the beauty of the creatures that inhabit the Smoky Mountains, which I wanted to present through a lens that reflects my deep appreciation for them. Another important idea is the significance of family among animals, which I’ve observed throughout my life. To illustrate peaceful coexistence, I drew inspiration from my observations of the animals that visit my property, which I often watch through one of my security cameras. It’s fascinating to see foxes, skunks, raccoons, and deer all at a short distance from one another, peacefully sharing the same space despite their differences. This concept of living together harmoniously highlights the broader themes of cooperation and unity that I wished to convey in the story. As a gal from Brooklyn, I hope this story and its images reach kids in urban areas similar to where I grew up, giving them a taste of nature’s beauty and perhaps inspiring them to care about animals and visit a place like the Great Smoky Mountains.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, Come Home, Papa Jed! is the first book in my broader series, “Animal Adventures of the Smoky Mountains,” specifically under the subseries title “Bear Adventures in the Smoky Mountains.” Fans can soon expect additional adventures with Jed and his family. Currently in the works are a Thanksgiving adventure and a Christmas quest, with hopes of releasing them in time for the respective seasons. Following the “Bear Adventures,” the series will expand to include other subseries focused on different animal families and their unique stories within the Smokies. I’m eager to hear suggestions from my readers about which animals they’d like to see featured next!
Author Links: Goodreads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/22/living-together-harmoniously/