In A Beggar’s Bargain, author Jan Sikes delves into the post-World War II era through the lens of Layken Martin, a recently discharged soldier returning to his family home in Missouri. Layken is confronted with the imminent death of his father and the daunting task of reviving their struggling farm. The narrative takes an intriguing turn when Layken, faced with the bank’s threat of foreclosure, is offered a peculiar solution: marry the banker’s daughter in exchange for an extension on his loan.
Sikes’ work, rooted in historical fiction, showcases meticulous attention to period detail, echoing themes found in classics like The Grapes of Wrath. The novel’s portrayal of poverty and desperation may also remind readers of elements from John Irving’s The Cider House Rules. Layken’s journey is grounded in authenticity as he navigates not only the challenges of saving the farm but also the complexities of an arranged marriage with Sara Beth, a woman he hardly knows. The backdrop of mid-20th century America, with its societal expectations and norms, further compounds the dilemmas faced by the characters. Sikes crafts a nuanced exploration of Layken and Sara Beth’s relationship, which evolves from uneasy acquaintances to potential allies facing shared adversities. The narrative is enriched by a cast of supporting characters like Tab, a young local drawn to the couple, and Uncle Seymour, a wise hired hand offering guidance.
Sikes’ prose is concise and deliberate, a stylistic choice that complements the story’s focus on character development rather than grand historical narratives. A Beggar’s Bargain unfolds as an intimate, moving study of two individuals forced into an unexpected life together. The brevity of the chapters contributes to the narrative’s tight, almost claustrophobic atmosphere, heightening the emotional depth of Layken and Sara Beth’s story.
Barbara Vokatis, PhD, presents a charming and educational tale in Carmel Goes to School, which follows a golden doodle named Carmel, trained as a therapy dog, on her visits to local schools. One particularly impactful visit takes place on a Wednesday at Mrs. Jenkins’ classroom, where Carmel not only brightens the day but also imparts important lessons on interpersonal behavior and empathy among students.
During this visit, Carmel observes a troubling interaction between two students, Jakob and Gianna, where Jakob pushes Gianna. Swiftly intervening, Carmel gently educates Jakob on appropriate behavior, leading to a heartfelt apology. This episode highlights the influence and value of therapy animals in educational settings, reinforcing positive behavior among students. What sets this book apart is the author’s creative decision to give Carmel her own narrative voice, adding a unique and engaging perspective to the story. This narrative choice effectively draws readers into Carmel’s world, enhancing the emotional impact of her interactions with the students.
The book is visually enriched by the hand-drawn illustrations by Ms. Kiskis, which are both colorful and expressive, capturing Carmel’s essence as depicted in a photograph at the book’s end. These illustrations beautifully complement the text, making the story accessible and appealing to readers of all ages. Based on a true story, Carmel Goes to School not only offers a delightful read but also serves as a gentle educational tool that showcases the benefits of therapy dogs in school environments—a concept I found particularly enviable, having never experienced such visits in my own schooling.
This is the fourth standalone book in Vokatis’s series about therapy dogs, each illustrating the profound impact these animals can have in educational settings. I eagerly anticipate future additions to this series and highly recommend this book for its heartfelt storytelling and educational value. It’s a wonderful read for both children and adults, providing a window into the world of therapy dogs like Carmel, who make a difference one school visit at a time.
Set in the 1970s, Richard Walter’s novel Deadpan introduces us to Dwight Bridges, a Buick salesman living in West Virginia. His life is unremarkable, marked by a casual antisemitism reflective of his environment. However, Walter swiftly upends Dwight’s world with a surreal twist: Dwight inexplicably finds himself transformed into a famous Jewish comedian. This startling metamorphosis propels the narrative, leaving readers and Dwight alike grappling with a bewildering new reality.
Walter’s storytelling echoes the bizarre identity swaps seen in Being John Malkovich, and shares Kafka’s knack for the absurd, particularly reminiscent of The Metamorphosis. As Dwight navigates his unexpected new life, he confronts his prejudices head-on, offering a candid exploration of bigotry and its personal impacts. The narrative journeys through a tapestry of settings, from Tehran to Las Vegas to Sinai, weaving a complex web where each location contributes to the overarching enigma. Walter masterfully maintains a delicate balance between confusion and coherence, ensuring that the underlying purpose of Dwight’s transformation, as cryptic as it is, gradually comes into focus.
Richard Walter’s Deadpan stands out for its unique exploration of identity and prejudice, couched within an offbeat yet compelling narrative. The novel invites readers to delve into the author’s imaginative and unconventional world, which may not resonate with everyone but is sure to captivate those with a penchant for the peculiar. In its exploration of human tribalism and the personal impact of bigotry, Deadpan offers a distinctive reading experience marked by its audacity and creative vision.
Automobilia, compiled and edited by Jason J. Marchi and Jeffery L. Buford Jr, is an intriguing anthology that interweaves short stories and poems, using automobiles as a central motif to explore a tapestry of human experiences. This collection skillfully spans multiple genres, including thriller, drama, and horror, providing a varied literary landscape.
In this anthology, vehicles are not merely background elements but pivotal to the narrative structure. For instance, “Duel” is a gripping tale where protagonist Mann faces off against a relentless truck driver in a high-stakes road chase to San Francisco. “Passages” delves into the poignant story of Beth, grappling with the loss of her boyfriend Rick and his Mustang in a tragic accident. Meanwhile, “Homeless” introduces us to Max, whose late-night walk leads to an unexpected encounter at an accident site.
The stories in Automobilia are characterized by their exploration of themes such as loss, grief, resilience, redemption, courage, and the bonds of friendship. Each narrative offers a unique perspective on life’s complexities, enhancing the reader’s appreciation of the human condition. A standout feature of these stories is their unpredictability, which injects a sense of excitement and keeps the reader engaged. The use of automobiles as a unifying theme is not only original but demonstrates remarkable creativity. The stories are crafted with skill, demonstrating a keen eye for detail and a flair for capturing the reader’s imagination. While the anthology presents a rich variety of stories, a broader cultural context in some narratives could have offered an even more diverse and enriching experience. The writing throughout is concise and compelling, making each story a satisfying read.
Automobilia contains mature themes and hence, is more suitable for an adult audience. Readers who appreciate an inventive approach to storytelling and the exploration of human emotions and experiences will find this book particularly engaging.
Through Her Lens follows a woman working as a photographer and British Intelligence agent who struggles for personal autonomy during a period of history where women are often overlooked. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I have long loved history, but it doesn’t take much looking to realize that much of what has been kept and written about is men. One evening I was watching an episode of NOVA, a PBS program, called “3D Spies of World War II.” They talked about the V1 and V2 bombs and the pilots who took the images, but they also spoke about the women who worked at RAF Medmenham. Many of them outranked men because the creator of the 3D approach thought women would be better at analysis than men. A woman is credited for finding the V1, Constance Babington Smith. I had a short story with a character named Millie, who was being evacuated from London at the start of the war. My writing group had been encouraging me to explore a longer story for Millie and with this nugget of information about RAF Medmenham, I had my path and one that I wouldn’t have to work to fill in too many gaps. Women did the important analysis work. I only had to learn about them to create a more well-rounded Millie and the world that she would inhabit. It was a chance to tell a true and little-known story about one of the many important things women did to help the Allies’ efforts in defeating the Axis powers.
What were some of the trials that you felt were important to highlight the character’s development?
For a single woman working in the time, the trials were many. It was important to me not to gloss over that fact. For that reason, I made her family rich. Money wasn’t something I wanted her to struggle with. I did want to highlight the limited choices women had. The British government wasn’t going to give her a gun or let her take her camera into the fight for that matter, but they expected her to contribute all the same and with little or no credit. Every day Millie was going to open her beloved newspaper to see honor bestowed on the men of her day. She was going to have to risk everything, remember Britain was regularly being bombed, and get no credit at all. How was an ambitious person to manage something like this? How this would shape Millie interested me. It was also critical that her father not treat her like his sons. He could want things for and from her, but only within what his peers would find acceptable. William may have had progressive ways, due to the influences of his wife—Millie’s mother, Margaret—but they didn’t naturally flow to Millie. They would both need to bend and the conflict between them would need to shape them. Finally, I couldn’t create a world without grave personal loss. No one escaped the war without pain of some sort. Millie couldn’t be an exception.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The thought I kept coming back to was this: There are things we want to do and things we should do, but unfortunately they are rarely the same things. Every character in Through Her Lens struggled with this fact. I believe most of my readers do as well. In this way I was able to take an old story and pull it into the present.
I also wanted the reader to grapple with how we value service. Why is a surgeon more valuable than a garbage man? Why is a man’s work, in the case of my novel, more noteworthy than a woman’s? Why have there been countless stories told of Winston Churchill, the men who stormed the beaches at Normandy, the men who endured the Battle of the Bulge, but few if any of the intelligence work the women did on Churchill’s behalf, the women who worked alongside him in his bunker in London, or the nurses and other women who followed the men into France, or of those who worked without a gun in the Ardennes? I do not mean to diminish the work and sacrifices of the men, only to ask why not the women too.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I found writing flirtatious banter quite fun. I have an idea swimming in my imagination of a group of female whiskey trippers, the folks who hauled booze during prohibition, and have written a few short stories to unearth my heroine. As you might imagine women were overlooked at the time and the 1920s were pretty bad for women. So perhaps an alternate reality of the time or maybe a more modern setting like revamped Smokey and the Bandit, populated by women, of course. I’d like to spend my time with a lighter topic and give my sense of humor a bit of a workout. I’ve visited a few spots in Appalachia to start getting a feel for possible characters and see who I can unearth for more inspiration. And I am constructing a cast with short stories and essays which is my second favorite part of the writing process. As to when it will be ready, who can say—soon, I hope! But research is my favorite part of the process, and it can take some time.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
In Through Her Lens, Melissa Bacon weaves a gripping tale of self-discovery set against the backdrop of World War II. Meet Millicent Trayford, a brilliant young woman working for British Intelligence in the perilous hunt for the deadly Nazi V1 and V2 bombs. Millie’s world is turned upside down when she decides to blow up her own life and pursue her lifelong passion for photography. Three years ago, Millie dutifully packed away her cameras and began her career in Secret Intelligence after discovering her surrogate mother’s flat leveled during the Blitz. Her commander has reassigned her to help verify and destroy the Nazis’ long-range vengeance weapons program before D-Day. Amidst the urgent demands of her work, a Royal Air Force pilot named Callum won’t let her forget who she is. He is always there – sneaking her a camera and tempting her with a life spent with him instead of her fiancé, Elliot. Melissa Bacon masterfully captures Millie’s struggle to choose between her dreams and her duty to family and country. Through Her Lens chronicles a piece of history based on actual events surrounding Operation Crossbow, a top-secret intelligence investigation tasked with stopping the V1 flying bomb and V2 rocket program. This exploration of women’s empowerment is a must-read for those interested in untold stories of the heroes of World War II.
In the fall of 1966, when I was twenty-four, I returned to New York. I was finally completing the journey home I had begun when I left New Orleans in the winter of 1964. My friend, the sculptor Mark di Suvero, lived in a building on the corner of Fulton and Front Streets; I looked […]
In Aftermarket Afterlife, the thirteenth audiobook in the InCryptid series by Seanan McGuire, we get Mary Dunlavy story. Mary has been the babysitter for Price children for four generations. Did I mention she is also a ghost? Attacks, danger, loss and more await you in this gripping installment.
Seanan McGuire’s New York Times -bestselling and Hugo Award-nominated urban fantasy InCryptid series continues with the thirteenth book following the Price family, cryptozoologists who study and protect the creatures living in secret all around us
Mary Dunlavy didn’t intend to become a professional babysitter. Of course, she didn’t intend to die, either, or to become a crossroads ghost. As a babysitting ghost, she’s been caring for the Price family for four generations, and she’s planning to keep doing the job for the better part of forever.
With her first charge finally back from her decades-long cross-dimensional field trip, with a long-lost husband and adopted daughter in tow, it’s time for Mary to oversee the world’s most chaotic family reunion. And that’s before the Covenant of St. George launches a full scale strike against the cryptids of Manhattan, followed quickly by an attack on the Campbell Family Carnival.
It’s going to take every advantage and every ally they have for the Prices to survive what’s coming—and for Mary, to avoid finding out the answer to a question she’s never wanted to where does a babysitting ghost go when she runs out of people to take care of?
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Narrated by Emily Bauer, McGuire continues the saga of the Price family. The family has made it their mission to protect multiple species of in-cryptid who live hidden amongst humans. The story is involved and I encourage you to listen to the series in the order of their release. I love the parallel universes, diverse creatures, but most of all, the Price family.
When Mary was sixteen, she died and met a crossroads witch and agreed to become a crossroads ghost, provided she could be there when the family needed her. Which is how she became the babysitter for the Price family. With her first charge returned home and the crossroads gone, she has a lot to consider, but before she can, the Covenant of St. George attacks Manhattan and all hell breaks loose.
I loved getting Mary’s point of view as she scrabbled from here to there, aiding how she could. Aftermarket Afterlife was a darker novel than its predecessors and I admit to shedding a tear or two. The Prices are tired, have suffered too much loss, and the Covenant can suck an egg. Sarah and Mary play heavily in the story as they can transport to family members in need.
I like Mary but the repeating of her role, love for the children, etc, etc was grating. Mary helps to drive their reaction to the Covenant, but at a terrible cost. I love this series and the last book ended on such a high note that when I finished this audio; I was left feeling blue.
Emily Bauer does a lovely job with the narration and, as always, I recommend listening. The novella that follows Dreaming of You in Freefall was not included in the audio version, so I will need to check it out later.
Update: Yesterday, Ms. McGuire announced more books in the Incryptid series & the Toby Daye series. She signed a deal with Tor. The first book, Installment Immortality, will release in the spring of 2025, followed by a Toby Daye book in the fall. I am over the moon excited and hope they deliver audiobooks as well.
Amazon | Audible
About Seanan McGuire
Seanan McGuire is a native Californian, which has resulted in her being exceedingly laid-back about venomous wildlife, and terrified of weather. When not writing urban fantasy (as herself) and science fiction thrillers (as Mira Grant), she likes to watch way too many horror movies, wander around in swamps, record albums of original music, and harass her cats. Seanan is the author of the October Daye, InCryptid, and Indexing series of urban fantasies; the Newsflesh trilogy; the Parasitology duology; and the “Velveteen vs.” superhero shorts. Her cats, Lilly, Alice, and Thomas, are plotting world domination even as we speak, but are easily distracted by feathers on sticks, so mankind is probably safe. For now.
Website | Twitter | Facebook
About Emily Bauer
Lauded as a prolific narrator by the Audiobook Publishers Association, Emily Bauer has a passion for truthful, honest storytelling and creating memorable characters across all genres. Emily graduated from New York University majoring in Theatre and Business. The recipient of multiple “Golden Earphones” , “Listen-Up Awards”, and Publishers Weekly starred reviews, she is well-known for her animation work on shows such as “Pokemon”, “Clifford”, and “Wallykazam”, as well as many of Miyazaki’s animated masterpieces, to name just a few. Among her over 300 audiobooks, recent favorites include the iconic ‘“Baby-Sitters Club” series as Mary Anne Spier, the beautifully tragic Beth in “Little Women”, The Incryptid Series by Seanan McGuire, and the Razorland Series by Ann Aguirre. Non-fiction work includes “Constitutional Grounds for Presidential Impeachment” and Lauren Mcgoodwin’s bestseller, “Power Moves”.
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In Starting Over, a Father by Choice by Ann Heap, readers are drawn into the lives of Wanda and Randy, a couple whose longstanding relationship since their teenage years faces its toughest test. Heap intricately explores the dynamics of love and commitment through the lens of this pivotal incident that promises to either solidify or unravel their bond.
Wanda, traditionally a diligent and sensible individual, finds herself at a crossroads after a transformative event, prompting readers to ponder the resilience of her character and the future of her relationship. Randy’s enduring affection for Wanda is portrayed with depth, challenging him to redefine acceptance and support in the face of unforeseen changes. Heap crafts a cast of well-rounded characters, from Wanda’s blend of intelligence and vulnerability to Randy’s unwavering support. Additionally, Carter adds a touch of charm and spontaneity, while Tillie emerges as a wise and enigmatic figure whose timely interventions often carry a touch of mystique.
The narrative balances light and dark tones effectively, ensuring a compelling read. Dramatic turns, such as a character’s sudden disappearance, are handled with a flair that grips the reader. The portrayal of firefighters weaves in a layer of heroism and sacrifice, enriching the storyline with a realistic glimpse into their courageous lives and the personal stakes involved in their profession. Heap also addresses the complex theme of adoption with sensitivity and insight, providing a thoughtful commentary on its challenges and emotional journey.
Starting Over, a Father by Choice is a captivating and enjoyable read, deftly combining elements of romance and drama with a realistic portrayal of life’s unexpected twists and the enduring power of love.
An Apparently Normal Person by Bonnie R. Armstrong is a strikingly candid and powerful memoir, delving deep into the author’s journey through medical mystery and personal discovery. This exploration begins as Armstrong, a career-focused child advocate, faces a series of baffling physical ailments. Her quest for answers uncovers a shocking childhood trauma, revealing the roots of her dissociative disorder. This disorder, initially a protective mechanism, eventually manifests as overwhelming mental and physical symptoms that challenge her.
Armstrong’s narrative is nothing short of compelling. Her unflinching honesty in recounting her experiences brings to life both the pain and the strength that is inherent in her story. Her writing style is vulnerable and insightful, making it a gripping read. The book’s portrayal of dissociative disorders stands out for its depth and clarity. It invites readers into a world often misunderstood. I found Armstrong’s journey through self-discovery, acceptance, and eventually empowerment to be moving as well as inspiring.
The exploration of mental health stigma and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity are notable themes. The memoir offers a deep understanding of how trauma impacts the mind and body and the role of dissociation as a coping mechanism. It’s a testament to resilience, shedding light on the importance of mental health awareness and compassion.
An Apparently Normal Person is a must-read for anyone interested in psychological memoirs, particularly those related to trauma and recovery. It’s an educational and empathetic journey suitable for mental health professionals, trauma survivors, and readers looking for a story of triumph over adversity. Armstrong’s courage in sharing her story provides valuable insights and hope to others facing similar struggles.
Scout’s Honor presents a gripping tale of Eddie Kawadsky, who later transforms into Richard Austen, navigating a tumultuous life marked by crime and an urgent quest for redemption. The story opens with a perilous drug smuggling venture in Tijuana, setting the stage for a narrative that is rich in betrayal, ambition, and survival. As Eddie’s escapades evolve from risky undertakings to major criminal operations, he is forced to confront his morality and past ties, ultimately striving to reinvent himself amidst shady deals and his ventures into real estate.
John McNellis adeptly portrays the high stakes and moral dilemmas that pervade Eddie’s world, making Scout’s Honor a riveting read. The story is laden with suspense and is intricately described which immersed me in the intensity of the conflicts. The contrast between the gritty urban settings and the lush, perilous Mexican landscapes provides a striking backdrop to the drama.
The novel portrays a broad cast and tackles intricate interpersonal dynamics, which may present a rich challenge for readers keen on delving into diverse backstories and motivations. This complexity serves as a testament to John McNellis’s skill in character development. I think he particularly excels with the character of Eddie/Richard, whose evolution is portrayed with both authenticity and depth, making his journey a compelling highlight of the story.
Scout’s Honor is an engrossing exploration of crime, identity, and redemption. This crime thriller is written with a keen eye for tension and moral complexity. The vivid settings and the dynamic protagonist add layers of depth to an already compelling narrative, making this novel a rewarding read for those who appreciate thoughtful character studies intertwined with suspenseful plots.
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In the fall of 1966, when I was twenty-four, I returned to New York. I was finally completing the journey home I had begun when I left New Orleans in the winter of 1964. My friend, the sculptor Mark di Suvero, lived in a building on the corner of Fulton and Front Streets; I looked […]
