Revisiting the Depths by Amy Tan pulls you into a captivating journey. Thirty years away from diving, and now she returns, diving deep into both the ocean and her own soul. Set on the picturesque Tioman Island, this memoir unfolds against a mesmerizing underwater backdrop. Healing, self-discovery, and transformation pulse through each page. Tan captures the serene beauty of the ocean, allowing readers to feel its tranquility. At the same time, she delves into the growth that arises from facing one’s deepest fears.
The writing doesn’t just tell—it immerses. Tan paints the underwater world with words, drawing vivid pictures of coral reefs, vibrant sea life, and the ocean’s eerie stillness. These scenes are not just visual treats but emotional contrasts. The narrative layers internal conflict over the serene scenes, elevating this from a simple diving memoir to a thoughtful meditation on life. Resilience and self-reflection emerge as key themes. For instance, when Tan describes the coral reefs, once vibrant but now dulled by climate change, the imagery doubles as a metaphor for her own struggles.
Tan’s personal history intertwines seamlessly with her diving experiences. Flashbacks to her early dives—darkened by the sternness of her instructor, Rick—add authenticity and vulnerability. These memories don’t just sit in the background; they resurface, haunt, and challenge her as she returns to diving. The book becomes less about the physical act of diving and more about reclaiming herself, proving that the fear and self-doubt of the past no longer define her. Tan’s raw honesty and her willingness to expose her vulnerabilities add depth and authenticity.
Revisiting the Depths is a work of art. It speaks to anyone who has ever grappled with fear, sought healing, or found peace in nature. Tan’s prose is eloquent, and her insights are profound. This memoir resonates, especially with those who appreciate narratives rich in emotion and reflection. It’s an especially compelling read for those drawn to personal growth, environmental concerns, and the spiritual connection with nature.
Angie Barton’s A Prophecy Awakened extends her exciting spellbinding series, skillfully bridging the narrative between its first and final installments. The novel immerses readers in a tale that is as captivating as it is intriguing, centering on Charlotte Delgado, who, on her eighteenth birthday, is thrust into a journey of survival. Forced to flee the only family she has ever known, Charlotte is left with nothing but an ancient diary, her sole guide in deciphering cryptic, four-hundred-year-old stories that trace a predestined path walked by her ancestor—a path cloaked in mystery and steeped in peril. As supernatural forces close in and a dark prophecy unfurls, Charlotte is confronted with the chilling possibility that she may be the last witch of her lineage, with a destiny more horrifying than she ever imagined.
Barton’s writing is rich with detail, pulling readers into a world where the supernatural feels eerily tangible. The characters, especially the vampires, defy the clichés often found in popular culture. Instead, they are intricately developed, brimming with emotions, moral dilemmas, and internal conflicts that render them very human despite their otherworldly essence. Barton’s deftness in making readers empathize with these characters, only to remind them of their dark, true nature, is both startling and perfectly attuned to the world she has created.
The settings are more than just backgrounds; they are fundamental to the story’s atmosphere and themes. From ominous, gothic castles to mist-shrouded forests, each location is vividly rendered, heightening the narrative’s mood and tension. The stark contrast between the cold, ancient world of the vampires and more modern settings amplifies the characters’ internal struggles, mirroring their battles with identity and destiny.
At its heart, A Prophecy Awakened is a story of identity, destiny, and the choices we make against overwhelming odds. It delves into the conflict between desire and duty, exploring how we reconcile the different facets of ourselves when they seem irreconcilable. These themes elevate the fantastical elements of the story, transforming it from a mere supernatural tale into a reflection on the human condition.
The novel’s narrative structure deserves special mention, as Barton expertly weaves together multiple storylines across different worlds and times. This intricate web of narratives builds tension gradually, culminating in a collision of worlds that is both exhilarating and emotionally shattering. The bold cliffhanger at the end leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
A Prophecy Awakened is a novel that sparks the imagination and stirs emotions. With its vivid settings, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, it’s clear why readers are so eager for the third book in this compelling series.
“We fight our political battles in stadiums,” historian Frank Andre Guridy says. “They become ideal places to stake your claims on what you want the United States to be.” His new book is
Ian Frazier’s signature voice — droll, ruminative, generous — draws readers in. But his underlying subject here is even bigger than the Bronx: It’s the way the past “bleeds through” the present.
At War with Ourselves, My Tour of Duty in the Trump White House
, Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster recounts his experience working for Trump and his inner circle.
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 Source: Publisher Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: Heat Level:
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.
Amazon | Audible
About Karen Rose
Internationally bestselling, RITA-award winning, author Karen Rose was born and raised in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC. She met her husband, Martin, on a blind date when they were seventeen and after they both graduated from the University of Maryland, (Karen with a degree in Chemical Engineering) they moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. Karen worked as an engineer for a large consumer goods company, earning two patents, but as Karen says, “scenes were roiling in my head and I couldn’t concentrate on my job so I started writing them down. I started out writing for fun, and soon found I was hooked.” Her debut suspense novel, DON’T TELL, was released in July, 2003. Since then, she has published fifteen more novels and two novellas. Her seventeenth novel, ALONE IN THE DARK, will be released in 2016. Karen’s books have appeared on the bestseller lists of the New York Times, USA Today, London’s Sunday Times, and Germany’s der Spiegel (#1), and the Irish Times, as well as lists in South Africa (#1) and Australia! Her novels, I’M WATCHING YOU and SILENT SCREAM, received the Romance Writers of America’s RITA award for Best Romantic Suspense for 2005 and 2011. Five of her other books have been RITA finalists. To date, her books have been translated into twenty-four languages. A former high school teacher of chemistry and physics, Karen lives in Florida with her husband of more than twenty years, her two daughters, two dogs, and a cat.
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About Sophia Rose
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.
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.
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.
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.
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