Sophia is here with the third novel in the romantic suspense, New Orleans. Come check out her thoughts on Buried to Deep by Karen Rose, part of the Romantic Suspense series. If you like thrillers and romantic suspense, you need to check this out.

Buried Too Deep
by Karen Rose
Series: New Orleans #3, Romantic Suspense #30
Genres: Romantic Suspense
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From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Karen Rose comes another explosive novel in the New Orleans series, where some secrets are worth dying for—or killing to keep.

Three can keep a secret if two of them are dead.

Employed as the nighttime security guard of Broussard Private Investigations, Phineas Bishop has been working through overwhelming PTSD episodes from his Army service while still utilizing his military skills. But when a violent break-in occurs at the office, the accusatory eyes of the NOPD glance to Phin, and he resolves to track down the intruder and clear his name.

Phin’s only lead and witness is Cora Winslow, a spirited librarian who also needs answers. Her father’s body has been discovered under a recently demolished building, murdered twenty-three years ago. So, who has been sending her the handwritten letters—written and signed by him—every year since she was five? Someone wants to keep Cora in the dark. And now, they’re coming for her.

As Cora’s bodyguard, Phin is surprised by his fondness for the woman’s fierce determination and research prowess. But New Orleans’s Garden District holds secrets as old as the streets themselves. With help from the entire Broussard P.I. team, Phin and Cora enter a labyrinth of fraud and homicide that threatens to bury them all.

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Sophia Rose’s Review

Life was complicated enough suffering from PTSD, but getting pinned by the police for a break-in sets a man on a path of investigation straight into the dark shadows of an even older crime.  Karen Rose’s New Orlean’s series has been captivating from the beginning and I love the focus around the Broussard Investigations and security firm.  The series only seems to get stronger as I go.

Buried Too Deep is the third of the New Orleans sub-series and thirtieth in the Romantic Suspense series overall.  While one could get away with reading it out of order, I did enjoy having the background and world of Broussard’s people and the overall situation with New Orlean’s backdrop from the previous books.

Phin Bishop is struggling, but he’s working through his PTSD and the Broussard Security family is behind him a hundred percent.  When there is a break in and he gets tagged for it by the NOPD, they support him and he is determined to clear his name.  His investigation leads him to Cora, a librarian.

Cora’s dad disappeared twenty years before, but bones being identified as him has just turned up.  One might think this is a good thing and would bring closure, but no… cue the creepy music.  See, Cora’s been getting an annual letter from her dad even while those bones definitively ID’d as him have been moldering in the ground.  So, whose been sending her the letters?  And, why is she suddenly in danger after the bones are found?  Cora wants answers and with Phin on her bodyguard team with his new K-9 companion, Soda Pop (love the name)- they will dive in and discovered a dark cover up.

I was very taken with Phin’s character and his connection to his work friends, his companion dog, and his growing romance with Cora.  As usual, Karen Rose did her research and portrayed PTSD as an ongoing, realistic struggle.  I loved Cora and Phin together and how much she was all in and supportive.  They were both smart about their investigating and I appreciated the balance of their building relationship and the tension of the suspense side of the plot.

The story had Phin and Cora both getting large swaths of the narration, but also the villain’s perspective which doesn’t give away as much as you’d think.

All in all, an abso-fab entry in a fantastic series.  Romantic suspense and thriller romance fans who like good police procedural and some grit with a good balance of the romance and action should definitely give these a go.

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/08/buried-too-deep-by-karen-rose.html

Azizi Tuere’s I’m Beautiful Because I Am: Valuing Myself & Others With Empathy and Care offers a heartwarming and insightful exploration of self-love and empathy for young readers. The story introduces us to a young girl who starts her day with an appreciation for her unique qualities, from her hair and eyes to her smile. She recognizes the beauty in everyday details, like her hands, which she imagines planting seeds that grow into tall trees. Through this narrative, Tuere conveys the message that each day presents a new opportunity to love oneself and appreciate the world around us.

Tuere’s holistic approach to self-esteem goes beyond the physical, encouraging readers to value the environment—whether it’s appreciating the rain or enjoying the warmth of the sun. The book also addresses important social skills, teaching children the value of kindness, not just towards themselves but also towards others, including friends, family, and pets. Tuere’s emphasis on imagination and creativity, combined with her message that true beauty lies in how we perceive the world and treat others, makes this book a powerful tool for young minds. Visually, the book is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors and charming illustrations perfectly complement the story’s themes of harmony and positive energy. The narration is engaging, with a pace that keeps young readers entertained while conveying important life lessons. The language is simple and accessible, making the concepts easy for children to grasp. The overall design and messaging make this book a delightful and impactful read.

I’m Beautiful Because I Am: Valuing Myself & Others With Empathy and Care is a valuable resource for teaching children about empathy, self-esteem, and the importance of pursuing their dreams. It’s a book that both entertains and educates, making it an excellent addition to any child’s library.

Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0D96R3446

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/28/im-beautiful-because-i-am-valuing-myself-others-with-empathy-and-care/

Mt. ؟!…shing: A Journey to Reconstructing Life and Its Meaning delves deeply into the realms of personal growth, self-discovery, and the philosophy of flourishing. Ali Mirsadeghi, drawing inspiration from Martin Seligman’s Flourish theory and Eastern transcendental teachings, leads readers on a symbolic ascent up the mountain of life. This narrative seamlessly blends storytelling with philosophical inquiry, posing profound questions about existence and delivering transformative insights along the way.

Mirsadeghi’s writing captivates and stimulates thought, though its complexity may challenge some readers. His distinctive style is characterized by fluctuating tones and intricate language, inviting readers to engage thoroughly with the text. The book opens with an enigmatic introduction featuring characters like Mrs. Meaning and Mr. Hope embarking on their journey up Mt. Shing. The initial storyline, referred to as “story zero,” effectively immerses readers in a world where the ideas of flourishing and decline are not merely abstract concepts but actionable paths one can navigate in life. A standout aspect of “Mt. Shing” is its innovative integration of Eastern philosophies with modern positive psychology. Mirsadeghi excels in weaving these diverse teachings into a cohesive narrative, demonstrating his ability to harmonize seemingly disparate ideas. The intricate nature of the concepts presented might be overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with Seligman’s work or Eastern thought. The use of allegorical characters to convey psychological principles, while creative, may require multiple readings to fully appreciate their depth.

Mt. ؟!…shing: A Journey to Reconstructing Life and Its Meaning is an essential read for those interested in personal development, philosophical exploration, and the fusion of psychological theories with spiritual teachings. This book is particularly suited for individuals familiar with or curious about positive psychology and Eastern philosophies and those ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Pages: 340

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/28/mt-%d8%9fshing-a-journey-to-reconstructing-life-and-its-meaning/

In The Pact, Lisa Darcy masterfully explores the intricate bonds that tie family members together, set against the high-stakes world of competitive tennis. Sisters Annie and Samantha Calahan share more than just blood; they are doubles tennis champions, a force to be reckoned with on the court. Their success stems from a deep mutual respect and a seemingly unbreakable bond. However, when Annie’s boyfriend proposes, their once seamless partnership begins to unravel. Suddenly, the sisters find themselves at odds, and the rift between them threatens not only their personal relationship but also their dominance in the sport they love. As life pulls them in different directions, they must confront whether they can mend their fractured bond and return to their winning ways.

The Pact is a compelling blend of family drama and sports narrative, reminiscent of the tensions explored in the recent film Challengers. At its core, this novel delves into the forces that both unite and divide family members. Darcy paints a vivid portrait of the love and loyalty that define Annie and Samantha’s relationship while also shedding light on the unhealthy codependency that simmers beneath the surface. The introduction of Annie’s fiancé disrupts their perfect equilibrium, leaving Samantha feeling threatened and triggering actions that, while extreme, feel utterly justified from her perspective. As a family drama, Darcy’s novel excels, offering a nuanced depiction of the complex relationship between the two sisters. The more we learn about their dynamic, the more we see the layers of their symbiosis, making their eventual clash all the more poignant and emotionally charged. The sisters’ drive for success as elite athletes is as central to their identities as their bond, deeply affecting their conflicts on and off the court. Darcy’s skillful writing ensures that the story remains grounded in reality, never veering into melodrama. Instead, this book strikes a perfect balance, succeeding as both a gripping sports story and a richly textured family saga, evoking the intensity and depth of the Brontë sisters at their best.

The Pact stands out as a powerful exploration of family dynamics and the pressures of high-level competition. With its engaging narrative and well-drawn characters, it is a novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories of sibling relationships, personal growth, and the challenges of balancing love and ambition.

Pages: 354 | ASIN : B0CY97YHCH

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/28/the-pact/

Utcan’s Talisman by Stella Atrium, the fifth installment in the Tribal Wars series, immerses readers in the adventurous journey of Bybiis el Putuki, a young woman entangled in daring exploits and complex political intrigues. Alongside her friend Opin, Bybiis faces the formidable challenge of resisting the manipulative intentions of the Khalif, who seeks to exploit Opin’s healing abilities for his own gain. Their escape leads them to a quaint fishing village, where they encounter new allies and reunite with Jesse Hartley. As Jesse and Hershel Henry attempt to rekindle their past connection, they must navigate the changes that time has wrought. Meanwhile, the escalating tension and peril in Utica force its inhabitants to defend their lives, even if it means defying their leaders.

Through Bybiis’s experiences, readers are drawn into Utica’s rich history and culture. Bybiis emerges as a compelling protagonist—resourceful, courageous, and unwavering in her loyalty. Her internal struggles with identity and belonging add depth to her character. The world-building in this novel is exceptional, painting a vivid picture of Utica as a city that is both familiar and otherworldly, with intricate details that enhance its allure. Atrium skillfully intertwines themes of identity, belonging, and the pursuit of knowledge as Bybiis navigates her place in the world and uncovers hidden truths. The plot is dynamic, filled with unexpected twists that keep readers thoroughly engaged. Despite the large cast of characters, each is relatable, though some may find the abrupt introductions challenging to follow. The novel’s exploration of the tension between tradition and progress is both thought-provoking and relevant, offering insights that resonate with contemporary issues. The book’s complexity can be daunting, especially at the outset, where the storyline takes time to unfold.

Utcan’s Talisman offers a rich, engaging narrative that will captivate fans of the series. Readers will be drawn into the rich world the author has created and find themselves deeply immersed in the story as it unfolds waiting to see where the characters’ paths take them next.

Pages: 416 | ASIN : B0D98LQ75B

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/28/utcans-talisman/

Until I Have No More to Give follows a Union Civil War survivor who joins a group of workers trying to fix the issue of millions of displaced Southern whites and freed slaves who have no place to go and no means to support themselves. What inspired you to write this story?

When all this began, I had preconceived notions of what the Civil War was all about and discovered that my grandfather’s half-brother played his minor role and my father and his siblings knew little to nothing about him, even who he was. So, I had to look harder and deeper. Using the internet and established historical venues, I had tremendous advantages over my immediate ancestors. They had a picture of a group of Civil War officers and they had Hiram’s Appointment Certificate into the Veteran Reserves Corps, signed of course, by President Abraham Lincoln and the Secretary of War; but they had no idea what they had.

As I began looking on sites, I kept finding more and more. Military records, retirement pensions, etc. It took several years to realize that I needed to share this information and by this time, my dad and his siblings were all gone. I had to find someone who would be interested, so, at the urgings of my sisters, I decided to write a book. The approach I took was to take all of the historical facts I had discovered and put them in a time sequence. I took A and B and tried to figure how would Hiram have got from one point to the other. Using a lot of history and and an untested imagination, a story somehow began to take form.
My biggest and most pleasant discovery was how Hiram was historically right in the middle of major efforts that actually helped to shape who we are and perhaps even what we still stand for. I hope so.

So, ‘Chauncey’s Blood  A Hiram Robinett Story of the Civil War‘ was published. However, my discoveries continued. I found new data and facts. I found answers that I did not have when writing book 1. Being the novice that I still am, I asked my editor/publisher if it was feasible to edit and update the story as a new edition. She suggested properly a second book, a story that expanded on the first book. So, that is what I decided to do.

I offered no apologies for changes that I found that modified the original story line somewhat. Such is life and why not reflect it accurately as fiction can be. I did that. The second book is a continuation of the story line from book 1 but reflects the accuracy discovered since the first writing. I additionally believe that I developed my interpretation of who Hiram was to be more accurate. He is definitely more human, with emotions that hopefully serve to make him more real. I love the guy and hope that who I described is who he was, an American average male who appreciated what life had handed him and felt a patriotic duty to give back when he could. His actions seem to dictate that to be true.

What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think makes for great fiction?

I should strive to say something really profound, but I’m not capable. At my age and in my condition, I have virtually every emotion under the sun. I can still be serious, I am quite feeble, I still love heartily and can only talk and sometimes dream with my new reality. So, I can soar with the eagles one day and have a difficult time getting out of my bed the next. I am getting a new rescue dog on Friday and expect to be all better by Monday. Life is good, sometimes hard, but always good. I should write about it.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

The role that the President of the United States of America plays in history.
History is far more favorable to the Reconstruction Era than is warranted.
Historically, The Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands was deemed a huge failure. I disputed that before the book and I continue to believe that an organization of 1,000 employees took on ‘fixing’ America’s 36 million ‘broke’ people. Their successes to support a million people is truly a highlight of a very dismal time in our country’s history.

Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?

I would love to make it a trilogy, however, the remainder of the story doesn’t have Hiram in the picture. There is a good story remaining, so I will just have to explore a bit more before making a decision. The other big question I still have is of 4.2 million freed slaves, approximately 1 million made use of the Freedmen’s Bureau. There has to be an amazing story as to how the additional 3 million survived. By 1870 Census, the black population had grown to more than 6 million, so something worked for them. Someone deserves credit.

Author Links: GoodReads | Second GoodReads

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/28/i-had-to-look-harder-and-deeper/