All Better Now

A new virus, named Crown Royale, has spread, with a 1 in 25 death rate. However, those who recover have limitless happiness, peace, and love. Ron, the son of a very wealthy man and heir to a vast empire, suffers from depression. He contracts the disease in a moment of freedom from his past. Mariel, a young impoverished woman who watched her mother die from the illness, is a nurse helping those ill from the disease and discovers she is immune. Morgan inherits her mentor’s extensive belongings and rushes to find a vaccine. These three lives become entwined and clash in a huge battle about fate, hope, and free will.

Written in the vein of  Scythe with alternating third-person narrators, this work of science fiction is a discourse on contemporary social issues. What would happen if capitalism fell? What would happen if success were not measured by physical wealth? What would happen if no one felt the need to buy stuff, all the time? So many questions. The sequel, All Over Now) has no release date yet. Even so, this title requires discussion while delving deeper into the opinions we hold as truths in today’s society.

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers


Queen of Diamonds: A Gritty Historical Crime Novel Set in the Roaring Twenties, Uncover Alice's Rise to the Top and the Sacrifices She Made to Get There! (Queen of Thieves, 3)

Two poverty-stricken women run gangs of shoplifters in London, one operating at the end of the nineteenth century, the other twenty-five years later. Initially, they both enjoy a measure of success. Dressed in fine clothes and speaking with upper-class accents, they saunter through London’s best stores, filching whatever takes their fancy. Eventually, however, they fall foul of the law and spend time in prison. The story vividly describes the appalling poverty of the slums they are trying to escape so desperately, although the occasional use of modern slang (sarnie, threads) mars the narrative. It also captures to great effect their ingenious thieving tricks and the soul-destroying jobs (sewing, bottling) they are obliged to resort to when times are tough. What will most intrigue the reader, though, are the links between the two gang leaders. The author skillfully reveals the connections that bridge the quarter-century divide, and while the reader may have some inkling beforehand, the actual telling will still fascinate. Queen of Diamonds is an engrossing and informative story of social injustice, and of the downtrodden woman who fight against the odds, take extraordinary risks, and suffer dire consequences.


Ms. Pretty Rickey: The Street Sweeper

Reading Ms. Pretty Rickey: The Street Sweeper by Bryneen Gary is like stepping into a stream of consciousness forged in fire. It’s a book that doesn’t ask you to sit quietly and listen—it grabs your attention, shakes your comfort zone, and demands that you feel something. The 24 poems within its pages are a bold blend of street realism, political unrest, spiritual confusion, and raw emotional grit.

As someone passionate about social justice, community health, and personal growth, I found this collection both chaotic and cathartic. Gary doesn’t write poetry for decoration; she writes to expose, to witness, and to survive. Her words come from the margins—from the neighborhoods, the courtrooms, the hospitals, and the back alleys. They’re not dressed up for academia or filtered for mainstream consumption. Instead, they arrive jagged, restless, and immediate.

Take the poem “The Mix,” for example. It unpacks addiction, community violence, and the thin line between survival and self-destruction. The poem moves fast, almost breathlessly, jumping from drug overdoses to domestic trauma to societal injustice. There’s a line—“They accused her of cutting her wrist to bleed / This happens in the world, still hunger, genocide, and poverty”—that caught me off guard in the best way. It’s an abrupt reminder that while people struggle privately, the world continues to collapse publicly. That duality is something many of us live with, and Gary captures it with a fierce, unfiltered honesty.

The language throughout the book is unconventional—sometimes fragmented, sometimes rhythmic, always intense. Poems like “Freedom from War” and “Chief Officials” dive deep into digital surveillance, spiritual warfare, and systemic oppression. These aren’t easy subjects, and Gary approaches them with urgency rather than polish. Some readers might find the syntax or grammar challenging, but that’s also part of the point. These poems aren’t about literary perfection—they’re about real experiences that defy structure.

There’s also a layer of surrealism and cultural commentary in poems like “Skull Ice Candy,” which fuses street slang, materialism, and poetic irony. Gary shows how glamor and danger often exist side by side. It reads like a chaotic scroll through a world where pain is constant but joy still breaks through—sometimes in the form of a Porsche, other times in a moment of clarity or prayer.

What struck me most was Gary’s fearless voice. Whether she's calling out chief officials or mourning lost youth, she writes with a conviction that feels sacred. Her poems don't just reflect the world—they respond to it, challenge it, and in some ways, try to cleanse it.

Ms. Pretty Rickey: The Street Sweeper is not an easy book. It’s intense, nonlinear, and emotionally dense. But if you approach it with an open heart and a willingness to hear the pain behind the poetry, it has a lot to say. It’s not always pretty, but it is always real—and in today’s world, that matters more than ever.


Advice from a Cat

What I expected to be a lighthearted, feline-inspired tale turned out to be a deeply introspective and emotionally resonant novel that beautifully explores themes of redemption, loneliness, and unexpected companionship.

At the heart of the story is Brian, a man burdened by guilt, grief, and a gnawing sense of purposelessness. His life takes an unforeseen turn when he crosses paths with Socrates, a three-legged stray cat who, despite his physical impairments, possesses an undeniable will to survive. Their relationship unfolds in a way that is both touching and profound, with Socrates offering Brian something he didn’t realize he needed: an anchor, a reason to push forward.

One of my favorite moments in the novel is when Brian, at his lowest point, finds himself comforted by Socrates in a way only a cat could manage—wordlessly, yet powerfully. This is a testament to Damiano’s ability to craft poignant, understated moments that leave a lasting impact. It’s not overly sentimental or dramatized; rather, it’s raw and real, allowing readers to connect deeply with Brian’s struggles and small triumphs.

Damiano’s prose is both elegant and accessible, weaving together humor and melancholy in a way that feels authentic. The dialogue is sharp and believable, particularly in Brian’s interactions with various side characters, from the no-nonsense firefighters who temporarily take in Socrates to the well-meaning but detached individuals Brian encounters in his daily routine. There’s a sense of quiet desperation that permeates Brian’s world, but it never veers into hopelessness—thanks in large part to Socrates, who, in his own quiet and stubborn way, reminds Brian of the resilience of life itself.

What I appreciated most about Advice from a Cat is how it resists the urge to provide easy answers. Brian’s journey isn’t a neatly wrapped redemption arc, nor does Socrates function as some magical cure-all for his struggles. Instead, their relationship is a reminder of the small, sometimes imperceptible ways in which healing begins—through companionship, through moments of stillness, through the simple act of caring for another living being.

If you’re a fan of stories that explore the complexities of human nature through unconventional yet deeply meaningful relationships, Advice from a Cat is a must-read. Whether or not you’re a cat person, this novel is a touching exploration of life’s unexpected turns and the comfort that can be found in the most unlikely of places.


Patriotic Duties

Cole Howard believed he could get his daughter back from a ruthless gang of thugs, but he was sorely mistaken. The kidnappers lulled him into a false sense of security, and then brutally disposed of him. This was Cole’s penalty for failure to complete a mission for his one-time employers. However, Cole had one more trick up his sleeve before meeting his demise. Cole sent a valedictory message to a fellow soldier named Trent Billups and provided him with some background about the men and their role in his daughter’s abduction.

War and its futility had taken a deep toll on Trent Billups. The failures of the war in Afghanistan along with its countless deaths had hit Trent hard. Trent had initially rebuffed Cole when Cole asked for his old buddy’s assistance with his recent trouble. Now, he feels bound to avenge his friend’s murder and rescue Cole’s daughter before it's too late. Trent commences a rampage against the men and leaves scores of bodies in his wake but is ultimately successful in freeing the daughter of his late friend.

Bo Harding is an unscrupulous FBI Agent who has been overseeing the clean-up of the Cole Howard debacle. Harding’s relief with Howard’s disposal turns to vexation when he learns of Trent Billup’s vengeance-fueled spree. Harding must locate Billups and remove him from the scene before he causes any more headaches. Harding works for a nefarious business magnate who has a plan to undermine the US government from within while unleashing a financial collapse from which he will stand to benefit.

 President Jeffrey Harrison leads a splintered nation and frets over its future. He is discouraged by Congressional inertia and the people’s discord. His loyal VP believes maybe it is time for him to take a step back, but Harrison is reluctant to do so. Harrison is unaware of the challenge he is soon to face that will test his leadership along with the fate of the country.

Patriotic Duties is a well-written and exciting thriller from the pen of newcomer Michael Perron. The action emerges right from the start and is soon combined with elements of conspiracy and political intrigue. Trent Billups emerges as the main protagonist in the novel and he takes on the role of reluctant hero as he is forced to do battle with a different kind of enemy. While the battle-scarred soldier has often been written about, Perron infuses Trent with enough bravery and an interesting backstory to distinguish himself. Perron establishes a knack for surprises early on and keeps the reader on edge throughout the novel, building the tense moments to explosive conclusions. With this smashing debut, Michael Perron has the potential for a bright future as an author.


Serial Killer Games

Serial Killer Games by Kate Posey is her debut novel, which shows us that whoever and whatever situation we encounter is likely not what it seems. Jake, the new temp at your average 9-5 business, meets the mysterious and aloof Dolores de la Cruz, striving to be a wallflower, but is noticed nonetheless. Outside of their 4x4 office cubicles, there are deaths of fellow workers continuously happening - is it suicide, or could the strange mannerisms of the new temp be his giveaway as the killer? The closer Jake and Dolores get to each other, the more is at stake, with boundaries crossed to reveal hidden, well-worn, and potentially deadly secrets.

Serial Killer Games was an enjoyable read, bringing out many emotions and thought-provoking topics (remember that things aren't always as they seem)! With memorable characters that will stick with you, each reader will likely experience a different level of enjoyment from their reading based on the character they resonate with the most. The beginning felt quite different from the ending, but overall, everything came together well. Posey presents twists, secrets, and revelations I didn't know I needed, but they significantly enhanced the story and reading experience!


The Road to Tender Hearts: A Novel

The book opens with a cat named Pancakes who curls up with the dying and seems to effectuate their death. When the cat takes up with an elderly alcoholic, P.J. Harriday, the reader might assume that the man’s end is near. However, the man is propped up by his ex-wife and her accommodating new husband. While they are away, on vacation, P.J. inherits two children and, along with his skeptical daughter, takes them on a wild ride to court his recently widowed high school sweetheart.

This certainly is a creative and interesting premise for a novel; however, this reader found the story line extremely dark and not that funny. The characters seem rom-com predictable with the usual precocious kids saying precocious things and suspense building as to when P.J. will fall off the wagon. The daughter who has suffered trauma and is distanced from her father, also predictably has a change of heart. The author has written four books and is acclaimed as a writer.


WASH (Button Poetry)

Ebony Stewart’s Wash/is a powerful, unflinching poetry collection that draws the reader into a world of raw emotion, deep introspection, and lyrical brilliance. As I read through the poems, I found myself captivated by Stewart’s honest reflections on identity, love, loss, and healing. Her voice is unapologetically bold, revealing the complexities of being a Black womxn navigating relationships, societal expectations, and hard-fought victories toward self-worth. Yet, her themes are universal, resonating with anyone who has grappled with their own identity and relationships.

What struck me most was Stewart’s emotional transparency: each poem feels like a cleansing, a shedding of shame, doubt, and grief, revealing the triumph of knowing one’s value in a world that often seeks to diminish it. Stewart doesn’t shy away from exploring the pain of extractive love or the vulnerability of desire, but she also leaves room for empowerment and resilience.

As a celebrated spoken word artist, Stewart’s storytelling prowess is evident. Her rhythm, cadence, and use of form bring each poem to life, even on the page. The recurring motifs of water, memory, and the body serve to reinforce the collection’s central themes of purification and rebirth. Wash is a testament to survival, reclamation, and the ongoing work of loving oneself deeply.


The Silversmith's Puzzle: A Mystery (Captain Jim and Lady Diana Mysteries, 4)

The Silversmith’s Puzzle begins with a classic mystery opening: a man, clasping the handle of a knife embedded in a dying person’s throat. An open and shut case, it would seem. When the supposed murderer, Lady Diana’s brother, is arrested, she and her husband, Captain Jim, a Sherlock Holmes enthusiast, set out to prove his innocence. Before dying, the stabbed man murmured something about gold even though he was a master silversmith.

The story, set at the end of the nineteenth century, plays out in steamy Bombay. The city’s poverty-ridden streets, splendid temples, and caste-burdened inhabitants are brought to vibrant life before the reader’s eyes in wonderfully detail-rich descriptions. At the heart of the adventure is a mysterious key… and what it unlocks. Jim’s search takes him all over the city, from Bombay Jail to the Imperial Mint, and from a slum-brothel to a cliff-side temple, before he finally uncovers the truth.

The Silversmith’s Puzzle will appeal to fans of the Captain Jim and Lady Diana series and attract new readers. The ending teasingly leaves some unanswered questions (Was someone working behind the scenes? Does Jim have an enemy?) that hold the promise of another exciting story to come.


Best House on the Block: A Thriller

Renowned journalist Rosella Marlow has won the Best House on the Block award year after year, until recently. This adds to Rosella’s growing paranoia, grief, and resentment after a recent loss. She watches all her neighbors closely, hoping to write an exposé on all of them and enlists new neighbor Shannon Gibbons to help. When Rosella is murdered, everyone on the block becomes a suspect, since they all had reason to hate her. Shannon will have to uncover the truth if she hopes to stay in this beautiful neighborhood, hopefully with one less murderer.

This was an interesting story with lots of twists and turns. You could certainly feel Shannon’s frustration as she tries to solve the murder of a woman nobody liked. This book is certainly not one of Ragan’s darker tales. It does deal with grief, abandonment and abuse, but not as in depth as some of her other stories. It felt like it had a more upbeat and hopeful aspect to it, while dealing with these issues. Overall, a great addition to your T.R. Ragan collection of mysteries.


The Ride: Paul Revere and the Night That Saved America

With respectful appreciation to Henry Wordsworth Longfellow for his poetic narrative, The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere, we hold onto the image of Revere, a Boston silversmith,  riding alone through the night to challenge the English Redcoats disembarked from the warship HMS Somerset lying off the coast.

Paul Revere did indeed ride through the night, but not alone. Together with some forty Militiamen and Patriots, he rode through the dark countryside seeking Samuel Adams and John Hancock, urgently warning them and everyone they awoke as they rode, to be prepared for the battle that would launch the American Revolution.

The author's captivating, vigorous account of the ride is a page-turner. What many of us view as simply a class assignment, Kennedy's fluency brings the story to life.  The pages, while centered on the singular date, provide a remarkable account of the hero, his fellow men, and their 1780s lifestyle. A skilled engraver and church bellringer, Revere served as a Freemason for 40 years and remains a patriotic model centuries later.

As one of the great stories of American history, The Ride is surely a labor of love as well as the fruition of extensive research.


My Sister's Shadow: A Novel

In My Sister’s Shadow, we meet Adelaide and Victoria, mirror twins. It’s 1904 England, and when Lord Stanley comes to visit, he leaves with a wife and her sister. Although outgoing Victoria was interested in him and his tales of New York, Stanley chose to marry Adelaide against her will. Once in New York, the twins are thrust into the elite social circles, where Adelaide manages to make friends and Victoria is ignored. Victoria is determined not to live in her sister’s shadow and watch her receive everything she herself has wanted, and she will stop at nothing to make sure her dreams come true.

This was a fantastic gothic read. You read every page knowing something bad is going to happen, but not quite sure what it will be or which twin it will happen to. What happens to one of them is kind of my nightmare, but thankfully, that doesn’t happen like it did in the early 1900s. I would say more, but you’re just going to have to read it. I highly recommend you add this book to your reading list if you enjoy gothic suspense.


A Rebel's History of Mars

A Rebel's History of Mars by Nadia Afifi is an exciting sci-fi tale of revenge, colonization, and a future historian's look into how badly humans screwed up when they conquered other planets. Straddling two timelines, Afifi weaves a pair of tales of discovery. One tale looks to the future, and the other sifts through the past. Both also question whether humans belong in the stars with our own history of messing things up. There are many sci-fi stories of space colonization, but Afifi's tale stands apart. With the dual timeline, she shows how humanity tries to do what is right while still being human.

Kezza wasn't born on Mars, but she's been there long enough to be considered a Martian. Kezza blames her situation on the Civilizationist Barret Juul. Kezza's assassination attempt became a partnership with Juul and a promise of a better life. One thousand two hundred years later, a team of historians examined the last days of the Martian colonies, a time when the powers did not want the truth to come to light. Get ready for a sci-fi adventure spanning centuries in A Rebel's History of Mars.


A Map to Paradise

Hollywood of the 1950s was a treacherous place. The Red Scare was in full swing, and actors were often called up to testify on alleged Communist activities and to name names in order to clear their own. If they were accused—or worse still, if they refused to accuse others—they could be blacklisted.

This is what happened to Melanie Cole, before the start of the novel. We find her holed up in the house of a friend of a friend, waiting for things to clear up. The only company she has is her Polish housekeeper and her neighbor, an agoraphobic screenwriter. When the screenwriter shuts himself in his room and refuses to speak to her, Melanie begins to suspect his sister-in-law of foul play. She begins to investigate, and secrets from all around her begin to spill out.

A Map to Paradise is a mix between a thriller and a novel about female friendship. At times, it is difficult to tell what the novel wants to be, but on the whole, it’s an intriguing read. I was compelled from the first chapter to the epilogue.


The World's Greatest Detective and Her Just Okay Assistant (A Merritt & Blunt Mystery)

Olivia had high expectations when she interviewed to be Aubrey Merritt’s assistant, and dreamed of helping the infamous detective pursue cases. Instead, she’s stuck answering phones in a windowless office. The investigation has them checking the possibility of murder following a woman’s fall off a balcony at the behest of her daughter. Her hopes rise as the case allows her to prove to Merritt how useful she is.

The story begins by immediately setting up the dynamic between Merritt and Olivia, which serves as a contrasting Sherlock-Watson type of back-and-forth. One is all about facts, and one is more emotion-based. Tully wastes no time establishing the type of characters they are, with Olivia being chastised for being one minute late. The relationship between the two drives the story forward, with both being well-rounded right from the beginning and instantly catching your attention, making you want to keep reading. Olivia is an engaging character driven by the desire to prove herself, no matter what the cost, and is enticed by the thrill of helping Merritt investigate. World’s Greatest Detective is a delightfully entertaining read with an engaging mystery, quirky narrator, grandiose detective, and a journey of finding purpose.


We Have Ceased to See the Purpose: Essential Speeches of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn (The Center for Ethics and Culture Solzhenitsyn Series)

Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, Ignat Solzhenitsyn

Nobel Prize-winning author Aleksandr Solzhjenitsyn was famous for his novels depicting the abuses of the Gulag system under Stalin, where he was imprisoned for many years, but was also kicked out of the Soviet Union for decades until its fall. During his time in exile, he gave several speeches worldwide, especially in Western Europe and the United States. This volume collects some of those speeches, including his Nobel Prize acceptance speeches and the Harvard Address, two of his most well-known speeches. Most of his speeches examine the materialistic world and a possible path forward out of it, which may be something that readers should embrace in today's world, with his current hostile political environment. Each speech has an introduction, putting the speech into the historical context of Aleksandr’s life and the background of why he gave a speech at that particular time and place. The speeches have been translated by Aleksandr’s sons, who also wrote the introductory and timeline material, who are helping to keep the work of their father in the public eye, as Aleksandr was an author who was not afraid to hold a mirror up to those in power.


We Live Here Now: A Novel

Emily had a terrible accident a year ago that left her in a coma and sepsis. To recuperate, she and her husband Freddie sell their flat in London and move to Larkin Lodge in the countryside. Emily immediately feels there is something off about the house and experiences weird phenomena, but Freddie doesn’t notice anything and blames it on post-sepsis hallucinations. Emily feels sure that someone was murdered there, but can’t find evidence of any deaths. The house and the secrets they each have begin to tear them apart, but what can we do? We Live Here Now.

Sarah Pinborough certainly has an interesting imagination. Her take on the classic haunted house trope is completely different than anything else I’ve read. If you’ve read her other books, you will not be surprised by the ending or that she doesn’t seem to think marriages ever turn out well. There are some very creepy parts in this book, and I think overall, it was much better than Behind Her Eyes. If you loved that one or any of her other books or just haunted house stories, this book is for you.


Torrible Puns: A Collection of Punny Poems

Torrible Puns contains lots of poems with rhyming about a variety of topics, most of which readers my age (11) and younger should be able to understand and find the funny parts within them. The funny parts are the puns, which are noticed when something in the poem sounds like it means one thing, but the word or phrase can have two different meanings, and both of them work to make the poem mean one thing or another. An example of this is one of the poems that talks about a bull with a credit card, charging - the bull charges at people and things, and when you have a credit card, you charge your purchases to it. This poem was one of the few that I needed explaining and didn't understand right away, as I don't have a credit or debit card yet, but the rest of them I was either laughing out loud, or rolling my eyes (but still thinking they were funny), especially when my mom read them with me and made a big deal about them! Torrible Puns is a fun book to read anytime, but especially if you're looking for a good laugh, something light, or have an assignment to read poems.


Cleave the Sparrow

San Francisco
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"Imagine a political thriller, a sci-fi mind-bender, and the weirdest cult documentary you’ve ever seen all mashed together, with a narrator who somehow makes existential horror laugh-out-loud funny. The characters are a mess (in the best way), and just when you think you know where it’s going, it pulls the rug out from under you. If you like your books wild, smart, and just a little unhinged, this one’s for you."—Scott Olsen, Manhattan Book Review (SENT)

"At its core, Cleave the Sparrow is a novel about control—over perception, power, and reality itself. It’s a book that weaponizes satire to peel back the layers of human delusion, from political theatrics to the very nature of existence. Wilder Crick’s chaotic vision of the world is terrifyingly plausible, making this a story that is as intellectually provocative as it is disturbing. For those willing to question everything, this novel delivers a philosophical gut-punch unlike any other." —Bradley Allen, Chicago Book Review (SENT)

"In a narrative as mind-bending as it is darkly hilarious, Cleave the Sparrow dissects the illusion of reality with razor-sharp wit and philosophical depth. With a plot that spirals from political satire to metaphysical horror, the novel explores the futility of perception and the consequences of enlightenment. Every page brims with biting dialogue, psychological unraveling, and a cosmic punchline that lingers long after the final chapter. A brilliantly unsettling read that demands—and rewards—careful attention."—Liam Davies, Los Angeles Book Review

"There are books that challenge you, and then there’s Cleave the Sparrow. With a narrative that feels like a fever dream engineered by a rogue AI, this novel is a stunning collision of political satire, psychedelic horror, and existential dread. It revels in its absurdity while dissecting profound truths about power, belief, and the fragility of perception. Daring, unpredictable, and utterly consuming, this is a novel that lingers in the mind long after you’ve closed the cover." —Kyle Eaton, San Francisco Book Review


Straight to The White House

"Amerigo Merenda’s Straight to the White House is an emotionally rich and thought-provoking novel that captures the turbulence of self-discovery with remarkable depth. Eric O’Reilly’s journey is one of faith, duty, and desire, and Merenda handles his conflicts with a refreshing honesty that never feels forced or melodramatic. The novel’s strength lies in its ability to explore difficult themes—sexuality, religion, and personal freedom—without ever offering easy answers, making it both deeply personal and universally relatable. With its introspective prose and compelling character study, this is a novel that lingers, challenging readers to reflect on the moments in life that shape who we become." —Scott Olsen, Manhattan Book Review

Mira Digital Publishing for eBook and eBooks2go for paperback


RED LILY: A Novel

Janice Graham’s Red Lily is an intoxicating blend of espionage, family intrigue, and historical reflection that transports readers from the shadowed streets of Paris to the depths of Cold War secrets. With a deft hand and a sharp eye for detail, Graham weaves a story that is both thrilling and deeply human, examining the complex intersections of personal identity, political betrayal, and long-buried family secrets.

At the heart of the novel is Carl Box, a reluctant hero drawn into a labyrinthine mystery surrounding his enigmatic Aunt Lily. When he receives a letter revealing that his aunt has died—or so he is led to believe—Carl embarks on a journey that will upend everything he thought he knew about his family. The novel's opening is a masterclass in setting and mood: “Paris languished in the August heat, the streets deserted except for the usual tourists and a few remaining Parisians plodding slowly along their routine paths.” From the first page, Graham immerses readers in an atmospheric world that feels both exotic and intimate.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its protagonist, Lily—a woman whose past is as layered and complex as the secrets she has spent a lifetime guarding. Though she fits into the tradition of the wily older female sleuth, à la Miss Marple or Jessica Fletcher, Lily’s story is uniquely her own. She is not merely solving a puzzle; she is an active participant in a high-stakes game of international espionage. Graham’s prose captures her wit and defiance beautifully, such as in her wry exchange with Carl: “Oh, Carlito, you know how I love it when you do the thinking.”

The novel is rich with historical texture, touching on the impact of the polio vaccine, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the shadowy dealings of Cold War intelligence. The influence of the Mitrokhin files, which inspired the plot, adds a layer of authenticity that makes the intrigue all the more compelling. As Carl peels back the layers of deception surrounding his aunt’s past, he is forced to reconsider not only who she was but also his own place in the world. In one of the novel’s most poignant moments, he reflects: “Before meeting my Aunt Lily and the Rue Tonton gang, I always thought there was only right and wrong... But what if ‘good’ doesn’t necessarily equal ‘right’?”

Graham also excels at balancing suspense with humor, an element that brings levity to an otherwise intense narrative. The dialogue is crisp and often laced with dry wit, making the characters feel all the more real. The relationship between Carl and Lily is particularly well-drawn, evolving from guarded skepticism to mutual respect and admiration.

If there is one minor critique, it is that the plot’s complexity requires careful attention—this is not a novel to be skimmed. But for readers who appreciate layered storytelling and intelligent intrigue, Red Lily is an absolute triumph.

In the end, Red Lily is more than a spy thriller; it is a meditation on truth, loyalty, and the ties that bind us across generations. Graham has crafted a novel that lingers long after the final page, much like the secrets her characters so desperately guard. This is historical suspense at its finest.

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The Price of Freedom

Michael C. Bland’s The Price of Freedom is a high-octane, cerebral sci-fi thriller that not only entertains with dystopian grit and technological spectacle but dares to interrogate the very nature of autonomy, perception, and sacrifice. As the climactic installment of Bland’s trilogy, it delivers both spectacle and soul, making it a standout in the genre.

We join Dray Quintero, a haunted engineer-turned-rebel branded the “most treasonous person in history,” as he battles the totalitarian grip of The Agency, a militarized force that controls the U.S. via brain implants and visual overlays. What sets Bland’s world apart is its plausible trajectory from contemporary society: a pandemic (OCB1) leads to mandated neural implants, which evolve into full surveillance and cognitive manipulation systems. The realism in the technological premise makes the story chillingly believable.

Thematically, Bland weaves freedom, memory, family, and identity into a tight, emotional narrative. One of the most harrowing aspects is the way The Agency manipulates not just the body but the mind. As Dray states, “I no longer trusted my mind,” highlighting a recurring theme: the erasure of objective reality and the fragility of self-perception when technology mediates every sense.

The most emotionally resonant scenes involve Dray’s daughters, Raven and Talia. Talia, once presumed near-death, reveals she has secretly hacked into The Agency’s system: “They plugged me into their system… I’m hooked into the whole Agency system.” Her mind, once targeted for experimentation, becomes a linchpin in the resistance. Her vibrant voice, full of childlike slang and steely resolve, is a shining star: “I created whole pathways with my mind, like a snake in their maze. Or a worm.”

Talia’s decision to remain behind to ensure her family's escape—a literal sacrifice of freedom for the promise of it for others—is a gut punch of emotion and heroism. “I’ll help you three escape. But I’m staying.” It’s a moment that echoes the book’s title with devastating clarity.

Bland’s prose is taut and immersive, filled with tactile and sensory details—especially in simulated realities where readers, like Dray, question what’s real. The pacing never drags, even as it makes room for tender family moments amidst brutal interrogations, betrayals, and mind games.

The Price of Freedom is both a thrilling rebellion tale and a sobering meditation on how far technology might push us—and whether love and sacrifice can still guide us back. A masterstroke for fans of character-driven, high-stakes sci-fi.


7 Days: A Dee Rommel Mystery

After reading and loving 9 Days and 8 Days, I was ready to step back into Dee Rommel’s world in 7 Days, the fourth installment in Jule Selbo’s punchy, fast-paced mystery series. As expected, Selbo delivers another smart, suspenseful story that’s equal parts action, heart, and razor-sharp dialogue.

This time around, Dee is juggling much more than your average PI case. The story opens with a chaotic, if random, diner brawl that ends with a strange woman named Gilli Wanz stealing Dee’s bag. But this isn’t a one-night inconvenience—it’s the first spark in a high-stakes, deeply personal investigation. From the start, Selbo weaves threads that tug at Dee’s PI instincts and personal life. Gilli and her partner, Nail Parcell, are odd enough to raise eyebrows, but it’s not until Dee realizes her mother might be the target of a cyberstalker that things really start to escalate.

One of the most compelling aspects of 7 Days<e/M> is the way Selbo grounds the action in emotional stakes. Dee’s relationship with her mother—who’s always been strong, composed, and tightly wound—is tested when she becomes the victim of online harassment. Dee’s investigation leads her to Liam Grimshell, a disgruntled CRCB employee with a serious chip on his shoulder and a toxic sense of entitlement. The scenes where Dee uses her sleuthing skills to get under his skin are classic Rommel—bold, witty, and no-nonsense.

Selbo also doesn’t shy away from Dee’s complexity. She’s still recovering from past trauma, still adjusting to life with a prosthetic leg, and still keeping people like Donato—the complicated detective she has very complicated feelings for—at arm’s length. Their late-night walk through Portland’s Eastern Promenade, where he breaks the news that Billy Payer (yes, that Billy Payer) wants a prison transfer, adds yet another emotional gut-punch. Even as Dee pushes forward with her investigation, she’s forced to deal with the ghosts she thought she’d left behind.

What I loved most about 7 Days is how Selbo balances the mystery with character growth. We get a deeper look at Dee’s emotional landscape, internal walls, and unshakable sense of justice. Whether she’s confronting cyberbullies, dodging icy sidewalks, or outsmarting dangerous manipulators, she remains the fierce, flawed, and unforgettable heroine we’ve come to root for.

In short, 7 Days is another winner. It’s thrilling, layered, and unputdownable—everything I’ve come to expect from this series and then some.

Dee Rommel is back and better than ever—bold, brilliant, and always two steps ahead.


A House for Miss Pauline: A Novel

Please, good reader, do not give up on this book midway. It will pay you to finish this book and celebrate this compelling story.  Indeed, the patois becomes tiresome, the issue that a white woman is telling a black woman’s story, and the unusual setting of the book are all obstacles to overcome, but it is a worthwhile read. Miss Pauline is awaiting her one-hundredth birthday, which falls around Christmas time. She understands that she is failing and that her time may be at an end.  A review of her life seems to indicate that there is unfinished business; in fact, the brick walls of her house seem to whisper that to her every night.

The story is set in a small Jamaican village where Miss Pauline has spent her entire life. Her husband had a traveling job, and she had heard of the places he had visited. Her sole aim, however, was to feed her children and escape the blistering poverty that raging weather and scarcity brought. Miss Pauline is a straight-talking, powerful woman who hasn’t been cowed by life’s challenges. Ultimately, this is a story of family and forgiveness.


The Wide, Wide Sea

In The Wide, Wide Sea, a grandmother takes her grandchild to the beach. There they discover all sorts of treasures: pebbles, limpets, periwinkles and whelks, to name a few. Suddenly, a seal appears in the water, and the child goes on an imaginary journey under the water with this newfound friend. Later, as the child and grandmother leave the shore, a fierce storm blows in. The next day, the two find that the seal is gone, but the beach is covered in trash. Although they didn’t create the mess, the child, the grandmother, and others cleared the debris from the seal’s home. Just as they finish, the seal appears once more and nods at the child before returning to the sea.
This book brings together many positive elements: a grandmother and child bonding, the joy of discovering flora and fauna at the shore, a fanciful underwater journey with a seal, the subtle message that the world is home to creatures beyond humans, and the empowering message that everyone can make a difference. This book is the perfect read before a day at the beach.


Charley Mouse Cleans House

Charley Mouse Cleans House is a fun kids' picture book that incorporates the reader's participation by helping Charley "look and find" objects throughout the pages. Charley loves things clean, and each day she visits fellow animals' homes in different parts of the Wild Wood or Magical Forest to tidy up and find missing items. Charley enjoys her work, but also has her work cut out for her!

 Charley Mouse Cleans House is a children's picture book that is suitable for all ages, as I even found enjoyment in it (at age 11), particularly the look-and-find part, but the story was good, too; adult readers will like it, also, based on my mom enjoying the time looking for the hidden things along with me and my younger sibling. I liked the pictures throughout the book because they are full (cover the whole page), and there is always something to find in the messy houses in need of some cleaning from Charley!


Wildfire Days: A Woman, a Hotshot Crew, and the Burning American West

Why would a woman want to join a hotshot crew fighting wildfires? A hotshot crew is the elite, well-trained, physically powerful team of mostly men who face incalculable risks to fight the fire up close and very personal. This reader learned so much about this fascinating career. From the tools of the trade to the physical exertion it takes to hoist 160 pounds of gear up hillsides to face great danger. Their job is to dig fire breaks, set back fires, or fell trees before they become tinder.

The author interweaves her personal life and romantic experiences into this story as a break to the relentless pressures of the hotshot crew. For her, there were also the emotional demands of the crew’s misogyny, the demands of her fiancé, and the demands she placed upon herself to keep up and excel. Anyone living through these Northern California fires will be riveted by her story.


Whisper to the Rescue

This is a cute story about how a tiny dinosaur cares about those around him. Whisper is very kind to the other animals in the forest and makes sure he leaves them berries to eat. However, Whisper's family isn't so thoughtful. When Whisper keeps getting overlooked, he decides that even though he is small, he can still make a difference by teaming up with the forest animals and using his actions to get his family to pay attention to him.

The illustrations of this book are very vibrant and colorful. I find it quite interesting that Whisper is so different from his family, in both size and color. However, this book shows that when you take time to listen to your family members, you can make a difference.


Daikon: A Novel

What if, instead of two atomic bombs, the United States had sent three over Japan? What if one of those had wound up in the hands of the Japanese?

These are the questions that form the basis of Daikon, a novel that is both a what-if scenario and an examination of the Japanese mindset at the end of World War II. The heart of the novel is Keizo Kan, a man called upon to study the captured bomb and learn its secrets, even as the date of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki inches ever closer. At times, the book diverts from him to follow his imprisoned wife and members of the Japanese Army, providing still more details about life in Japan in 1945.

The book is intriguing, but it takes time to build up. The first several chapters feel like a documentary about atomic bombs, and the characters often seem to be at a remove from the audience, with their emotions and, at times, even their humanity taking a backseat to history and the plot. It’s more likely to catch and hold the interests of people who are already deeply interested in this time period.


One Wrong Step

It’s 1939 when Alex Wade’s father takes Alex on an expedition to the summit of Mt. Everest. Alex is 12 and has been hiking and climbing all his life. No one has successfully climbed Everest yet, and Alex’s father won’t let him go past base camp. Alex isn’t happy that there is a girl, Maddie, his age, brought by her father. Alex and Maddie are left behind with a sherpa, Chodak, when the rest of the team goes up to complete the climb, but there is an avalanche near the top, and the team may be lost. A radio signal sends Alex, Maddie, and Chodak on a rescue mission. Chodak is injured, and Alex and Maddie continue on their own.

Jennifer A. Nielsen has written an exciting story with plenty of problems and danger to keep the pages turning. The characters are all well-rounded and believable, and the setting becomes a significant character in the story, challenging all the other characters in ways they often don’t see coming. The writing is excellent, and the story is most compelling. The book is marketed as being for 8-12-year-olds, but 10-14 makes more sense. Older kids and adults will also enjoy it.


Nellie's Big Splash

Nellie is a tiny, newly hatched sea turtle who is afraid of crashing ocean waves. When all of her fellow hatchlings immediately head for the sea, Nellie is too afraid to join them. Instead, she tries to flee her fears by climbing up the beach and onto a rock. While Nellie is above the awful crashing, she realizes how lonely she is for the other hatchlings and that she is still afraid. Going home to the sea is the only answer. Crawling to the edge of the rock, she sees the beauty of the sea beyond the scary shoreline. Nellie looks inside herself to find the courage to dive into the unknown, where she instantly finds her siblings waiting for her.

Cori Doerrfeld has created an absolutely beautiful picture book, both in terms of message and illustration. Nellie’s journey in facing her fears will resonate with many children. The gentle style of illustration complements the tender message of the text perfectly. Doerrfeld even manages to convey her story through the interesting vehicle of a sea turtle’s early life.

Nellie’s Big Splash is a charming book with a heartening message.


Be Thankful for Plants

Be Thankful for Plants is the perfect springtime read. Spring is my favorite season, when everything starts to turn green again. This book tells how and why plants are essential to our life on Earth. Plants help make the fresh air we breathe, as well as our clothes, our homes, our food, and feed animals. Without plants, ecosystems would collapse. So we must do what we can to protect plants!

This is a really informative book with the cutest illustrations. My favorite is the badger in the weeds with her baby cubs. I especially like the part where plants are essential, add beauty, and make us feel good by looking at them or growing them. Great book for those who want to learn all about plants.


Captain Kidd: A True Story of Turesure and Betrayal written by award-winning and best-selling history author Samuel Marquis, is one of the more complete chronicles of the notorious pirate’s life. Marquis might have been working with more inside knowledge than other writers. Marquis is a direct descendant of Captain William Kidd. He is Kidd’s ninth-great grandson. Marquis goes beyond just anecdotes and references. Marquis relays everything from the pre-colonial history of the Caribbean to Kidd’s execution. Marquis details the geography, politics, and social norms of the time. He ties all his history into how and why Kidd became a privateer and how he worked.

As exciting as Kidd’s life was, Marquis’s book is not an overly dramatic telling of the buccaneer’s exploits. Marquis does show Kidd as more than a bloodthirsty, greedy pirate. He shows Kidd as a man, a patriot, and a husband. Many historical recounts of the golden age of piracy show the more ruthless and notorious side of Kidd. Marquis questions whether Kidd should be considered a criminal or an opportunistic patriot. For a complete picture of this fascinating character of maritime history, read Captain Kidd: A True Story of Treasure and Betrayal.


The Summer Guests: A Thriller (The Martini Club)

Purity, Maine, is a sleepy little hamlet until summer guests start arriving at their cottages. When one of those visitors, a teenage girl, goes missing, it's up to Jo Thibodeau, a young acting chief of police, to find out what happened. But a group of retired spies also lives in the village, and they can't help but investigate when one of their neighbors is suspected of being involved in the teenager's disappearance.

The case takes an unexpected turn when a long-dead corpse is discovered while looking for the missing girl. Now there is another mystery to solve and no time to waste if they want to find the missing girl before it's too late. Will Jo or the Martini Club, as the retirees have dubbed themselves, be able to make sense of the complex web of secrets that have been hidden for decades?

The Summer Guests is a riveting mystery with plot twists and turns the reader will not see coming. It's full of engaging characters and an idyllic setting, all of which make this one of those page-turners you will not be able to put down.


Shopgirls: A Vibrant Novel of Self-Discovery, Friendship, and the Exuberant Fashion Scene of 1980s San Francisco―Perfect for Summer Reading

While I have loved two of Jessica Anya Blau's earlier novels, her latest effort, Shopgirls, is simply a mess with a protagonist too naive to be believed.

It's San Francisco in 1985, and19-year-old Zippy is working at the iconic I. Magnin store. She has no college education, no experience with boys or men, and lives with a lawyer, Raquel, who is world-wise in all the ways Zippy is not. Their friendship, built on Zippy answering an ad for a roommate, is just one of the ridiculous plot points in this novel. As Zippy becomes one of the strongest sales clerks at the store, she slowly learns what it is to feel torn between the job you love and family duties when her mother's husband, Howard, is hurt in an accident. While she navigates this, she is also contacted out of the blue by her birth father, a one-night stand her mother barely remembers.

Sound far-fetched? I haven't even mentioned the paper dolls she plays with at work.

The descriptions of the clothing in the store save this from being a complete waste of time, but just barely.


Ivy Newt and the Storm Witch (Ivy Newt in Miracula)

This is the story of a little witch and her familiar, which is a boy who is also a wolf. All is well while Ivy and her family are celebrating her birthday, when suddenly there is a strike of lightning and a puff of smoke, and her father the King of Miracula have suddenly disappeared and that is left of him is a golden buckle from a shoe. Now Ivy and her familiar must try to find her family. Read this book to follow their adventure.
This is a really cute story. Who doesn't love stories about witches? I especially like the illustrations in the front pages that show the characters in the story. I also like the little illustrations throughout the story. My favorite character is the familiar Tom Wolf.


Lessons from My Teachers: From Preschool to the Present

In a series of short, one- to three-page essays, award-winning playwright Sarah Ruhl offers a guided memoir of her life, acknowledging the people and events that have shaped her personality and influenced her vision. First and foremost, she was blessed with a talented and encouraging family; however, she was also fortunate to meet mentors during her schooling who became trusted advisors and lifelong friends. She recounts her growth and development spurred not only by her elders but also by her students, her children, her cohorts, and especially by her Buddhist nanny. She describes the painstaking struggles that challenged her during her writing career and the steps she took to overcome these obstacles. The story of the principal who cried prompts the reader to pause and reflect on the helplessness of humanity, while it opens one’s view into the heart. Another incident examines death and her child’s insistence that while dolls and humans unfortunately age, the conclusion that dolls do not die brings some measure of reassurance. There are meetings with feminists, discussions about writing, and the challenges faced fighting an undiagnosed Lyme infection for more than a dozen years. It is a fascinating selection of sketches about the people and events that influenced the author. The stories will prompt the reader to reflect on parallel lessons from their teachers that have shaped their lives.


The Unkillable Frank Lightning

The Unkillable Frank Lightning by Josh Rountree is a modern pulp Western novel with a weird twist.  Frankenstein meets the Wild West in this bizarre tale featuring the occult and a traveling Wild West show. Like any good western, one can expect rugged landscapes, hardened characters, shootouts, and a few saloons. Rountree adds elements of horror and tops it all off with the most outlandish cast of individuals to venture out into the wilds. Like the Dime Store Novels of the late 19th century, Rountree’s tale is full of the adventure of the West, romance, and mystery. But in true Rountree fashion, this novel is a dark, fantastical look at Americana.

The Unkillable Frank Lighting follows Catherine Coldbridge as she tries to undo the horror that she created. As a doctor and occultist, Catherine brought her husband back to life, who was killed in an attack. Rountree alternates between timelines, switching between the creation of his undead monster and the hunt for Frank Lightning. Much like Mary Shelly’s classic, Rountree scrutinizes what it means to be human. Combining genres of horror and weird westerns and adding unforgettable characters makes Rountree’s novel a darkly entertaining read.


My Friends: A Novel

My Friends is told from the perspective of Louisa and Ted, both of whom have recently lost their best friend. Louisa is an 18-year-old orphan and has lived a hard life. Still, she has an unspeakable talent for art and meets a famous artist who changes her life forever during his final days on earth. Ted is the late artist’s closest friend and eventually meets Louisa. He finds her annoying, yet familiar – he tells her the story of his best friends on a long train ride and realizes that he and Louisa are more similar than he could have expected.

My Friends is another emotional character-driven novel from Fredrik Backman. I almost cried countless times—Backman has such a gift for writing about the human experience. It is filled with humor and heartbreak, with each page feeling like a warm hug. I found myself savoring each chapter, wanting to know what happened during Ted’s childhood and why he is alone as an adult. I was saddened by each child’s relationships with their parents, but the precious moments with one another and the few loving adults in their lives made it emotionally bearable. This is a book that will stay with me for a while!


Over in the Mangroves

Over in the Mangroves is a vibrant tribute to the unique biodiversity of the Sundarbans National Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site situated along the border of India and Bangladesh. The lush mangrove ecosystem is at the confluence of the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. Teeming with life, it is home to a variety of mammals, reptiles, birds, fish, and insects. The Sundarbans’ intertidal forests are ecologically vital and serve as a critical buffer against climate threats in the region, which is home to 5 million people.

Author Jyoti Rajan Gopal reimagines the classic nursery rhyme “Over in the Meadow” to introduce young readers to the interconnected lives of the forest’s inhabitants. With rhythmic, lyrical verses, the book underscores the essential role that forests play in nurturing and sustaining life. Each stanza invites children to count along as they meet new animal families, emphasizing themes of cooperation, interdependence, and environmental stewardship.

Complete with a glossary and fun facts, Over in the Mangroves is both an educational tool and a celebration of nature. Illustrator Dikshaa Pwaskar’s vibrant, expressive artwork brings the forest to life with bold colors and engaging details. Her illustrations capture the warmth and vitality of the mangrove’s diverse creatures, creating a visual feast that complements the lyrical text.


Eatopedia: The Wild World of Animal Digestion

The illustrator Tina Bestard deserves awards for her amazingly appealing and informative illustrations of the seventy diverse animals, contrasted with their highlighted digestive systems.  In these wonderfully drawn depictions, different animals from invertebrates to vertebrates are described, and the reader is shown how they obtain their life energy through the food they ingest and process through their digestive systems. Check out jellyfish, or a cockroach, or inspect your backyard chicken, perhaps you would like to examine something larger, like a horse, a blue whale, or even a hippopotamus. The animals are at your disposal along with tidbits of delicious information, such as what these creatures eat and who eats them, along with other tantalizing facts. Take sharks, for example, the great white shark is renowned as the apex predator and has been on this planet for about sixteen million years. Think how busy the ruminant cow is, eating about 150 pounds of fresh grass eight hours a day. Find out if dogs eat poo, or learn where the brown sewer rat originated from, lots of useful information to engage both the young and older reader. Animal lovers will adore the book, and children will be exposed to the myriad ways the body is designed for survival.


Tallulah the Mermaid and the Great Lakes Pledge

Tallulah the mermaid is very special, and the whole lake is having a grand ceremony to celebrate her. Tallulah has promised to serve the Great Lakes and help keep them healthy, clean, and the animals safe. This is a challenging job, as she has to swim around and inspect the beaches to ensure everyone cleans up, so the water doesn't get polluted. Those who help out can be made into honorary mermaids.

My little sister really loved this book. This book is great for readers who love the lore of mermaids. My favorite part of this book was learning about the different kinds of stones that the fish brought her. What's also really cool is the instructions on how to host a mermaid party in the back of the book.


Seasons on the Farm

In Seasons on the Farm, author Chelsea Tornetto takes readers on a rhyming journey through the seasons on a farm. In spring, buds break, sheep are sheared, babies are born, and crops are planted. In summer, farmers watch for rain and weeds, while hay is baled, and prizes are won at the fair. In fall, apples mean apple pie, grain must be stored in silos, pumpkin patches appear, and geese fly south. In winter, we turn indoors, with plenty of firewood, as snow covers the fields and provides time to mend our machinery.
In a world where many are disconnected from the rhythms and processes that create our food, this book fills a lovely void, providing young readers with an understanding of the importance of farms in their lives. Tornetto accomplishes this through delightful rhyme, which makes this a fun book to read aloud and provides back matter for those who would like to know a little more about American farming. This book would make a lovely pairing with a visit to a local farm or a trip to a local farmer’s market.


Pine Cone Regrown: How One Species Thrives After Fire

Elisa Boxer, Kevin Howdeshell, Kristen Howdeshell

Pine Cone Regrown. tells the unusual story of a pine cone which hangs from a tree for forty years, biding its time. When an unattended campfire grows into a blaze, the pine cone watches as forest wildlife flees the flames. Still, the pine cone waits, holding its seeds sealed in resin. As the flames approach the cone, the resin melts, the cone finally cracks open, and the seeds fall. The ground on which the seeds land has been enriched by ash and now receives sunlight because the fire has removed the canopy, which previously blocked the light. As the seeds sprout, wildlife returns. So, the fire was not the end, but the beginning of new life in the forest.

Elsa Boxer has written a fascinating picture book that demonstrates the surprising necessity of fire for certain pines. The text itself is beautifully crafted with abundant alliteration, giving this book a melodic flow. Finally, Kevin and Kristen Howdeshell’s illustrations can only be described as vibrant and perfectly suited to the text. In sum, this is an excellent picture book.


Salamander Song

Children play in the park as autumn leaves fall all around them. Under the ground, a salamander is in its subterranean home. Winter comes, and snow covers the park where children play. The salamander spends the winter sleeping. Sleet ratta tat tats. Spring is on the way. Salamander begins to wake up. Spring flowers bloom. Rains fill the pond, and Salamander comes out of his hidey-hole. The children learn that salamanders need to move from their winter homes to the safety of ponds and pools. This can be a dangerous journey for the tiny animals, so people everywhere, young and old, set up safer crossings for them, warning drivers to slow down and give the animals a chance to reach their breeding grounds.

Author Ginny Neil uses a lot of poetic devices — rhyme, rhythm, alliteration, onomatopoeia, and more — to tell this important story to youngsters who can help small animals that have dangerous spring journeys. Beautiful illustrations by Charli Vince fully support the spare text. The illustrations are filled with delightful details that will keep young listeners fully engaged. The combination of a charming text and lovely illustrations makes for a winning picture book.


The Next Dimension: How to Use Augmented Reality For Business Growth In The Era of Spatial Computing

Tom Emrich’s The Next Dimension is a thorough and engaging exploration of how augmented reality (AR) is transforming modern business. Geared toward business leaders, marketers, and technologists, the book opens with an accessible introduction to spatial computing, where digital content blends seamlessly into our physical world. Emrich illuminates key AR strategies across marketing, advertising, and retail, showcasing real-world case studies from brands such as LEGO, BMW, Walmart, Gucci, and Diageo. He explains how AR collapses the marketing funnel, generates immersive ad campaigns, and enables AR‑driven commerce, offering tools and roadmaps for businesses to activate and engage the emerging “Generation AR”. In addition, the book includes practical sections on spatial strategy, performance metrics, and hardware ecosystems, making it both visionary and actionable.

Emrich’s narrative is clear, structured, and highly reader-friendly. The book strikes a balance between big-picture vision and hands-on guidance, making it suitable for both executives and practitioners. Each chapter concludes with concise summaries and practical frameworks, enabling readers to quickly grasp key takeaways and apply them to real-world business scenarios. Emrich writes with a conversational tone that demystifies complex topics, making the material accessible even to those new to augmented reality or spatial computing. His background, spanning journalism, product leadership, and investment in AR, brings depth and authority to the content without overwhelming the reader. Additionally, the inclusion of interactive, AR-activated content and a companion digital layer enhances the reading experience, adding a dynamic and modern twist. Overall, the book serves as both a primer and a strategic guide, empowering readers to understand and leverage AR effectively in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The Next Dimension is an essential, well‑written guide that demystifies AR and provides actionable strategies to spearhead your business into spatial computing. Highly recommended for anyone aiming to lead in the next era of immersive digital transformation.


It's the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown (Peanuts)

The Peanuts friends are getting ready for Easter, and it seems no one is quite sure what the best way to celebrate is. Marcie and Peppermint Patty want to decorate Easter Eggs, but it seems they aren't on the same page when Peppermint Patty fries the eggs. Linus is sure there is an Easter Beagle, but no one else is so sure. Snoopy wants to dance with Easter Rabbits, but he is unsure. You have to check out this book to see if there is an Easter Beagle.
This is a really funny book. The problems Peppermint Patty and Marcie face trying to fix the eggs are hilarious. The illustrations are very cute and colorful, like all of the books from Charles Schultz. This is a classic to add to your holiday collection.


Mixed-Up

Meet Stella. Stella and her friends are so excited for fifth grade and for a new witch game that is releasing. However, Stella becomes very behind on her textbooks for school, and all her friends are ahead of her on the new game. Stella wants to hang out with her friends, but she’s too embarrassed to say that she’s struggling to read her textbooks. Stella learns that she has dyslexia, and with help, she learns how she can deal with it.

I know that the story is trying to represent the difficulties that come with having dyslexia, but I felt like the story got a little boring because most of the book was just Stella being frustrated and struggling with things. I think the book could’ve used some sort of fun aspect during all Stella's struggles. The art was really good, and I liked the bright colors, but for me, it wasn’t the style of art I personally like. My favorite characters were Stella’s friends: Emiko and Latasha. They seemed like very supportive friends, but their witch obsession got repetitive for me. I recommend this book to people who like witches and people who have dyslexia.


Before Gender: Lost Stories from Trans History, 1850-1950

Currently, the issue of gender has become a topic that sparks contentious debates. The plight of the trans individual whose sense of personal identity and gender does not correspond with their birth sex has often been regarded as a recent occurrence. Quite the contrary, author Era Erick vividly reveals the histories of thirty trans individuals recorded over a hundred years, from 1850 to 1950. Through historical archives, including church records, court accounts, newspaper and magazine stories, and interviews, the reader discovers that both trans men and women have existed in various cultures and countries across the continents. Some were outlaws, a few were royalty, there were healers, pacifists, a snake charmer, a matador, even a wrestler, and more. Many transgender people were fully accepted by their families and communities. Others had a difficult time maintaining their adopted sex and were persecuted under the cross-dressing laws. Those who successfully filled their trans roles, unfortunately, were outed when hospitalized or when dead.  The background stories will interest those in the transgender community and provide the general reader with a better understanding of the social problems facing this population. There is much repetition in the narrative, and because most of the data is derived from archival history, the accounts lack a personal perspective.


Ice Moon (The Blood Circus Series)

Ice Moon is Camila Victore’s second book in her Blood Circus series. Beginning where book one ended, this series makes more sense when read sequentially. Ava must return to the wild to hunt down Warwick, Circo’s king. Aided by Diablo, Ava learns what it means to be Klujn. After surviving the Blood Race that Warwick put her through, Ava must journey on her own personal Blood Race to save those whom she loves. Victore’s first book has a lot in common with Hunger Games. In both series, book 2 finds the young heroine venturing back out while discovering their true self.

Ice Moon is as exciting and fast-paced as book one. Like in Blood Circus, Ava’s character development gives the reader a complete picture of Ava and more insight into Klujns. The world-building in Victore’s dystopian landscape provides both danger and beauty. Victore falls a bit short in the secondary character development. The readers got to meet a bunch of exciting figures in book one, but Ice Moon, we only get recycled characters that do not live up to their roles in book one. For an exciting YA adventure, embark on the journey with Ava in Ice Moon.


Outgrowing Modernity: Navigating Complexity, Complicity, and Collapse with Accountability and Compassion

Vanessa Machado de Oliveira,  Awo Fatokun Faniyii, Keri Facer

In Outgrowing Modernity, Vanessa Machado de Oliveira distills the most transformative insights from her work with the Gesturing Toward Decolonial Futures Arts/Research Collective. Expanding on themes of shared responsibility and relational accountability, she explores how discernment, compassion, and embodied awareness can guide us toward deeper transformation. With a sense of urgency, Machado invites readers to radically rewire their thinking, relationships, and actions in the face of overlapping global crises.

Outgrowing Modernity serves as a companion and follow-up to the groundbreaking Hospicing Modernity, a powerful critique of capitalism, industrialization, and colonial systems. In this latest work, Machado offers rich context and insight into the multitude of social and ecological crises shaping our world. While it builds on ideas from her earlier book, Outgrowing Modernity, it stands on its own: it is accessible and relevant even to readers new to her work.

With bold clarity, Machado invites readers to reimagine how we think, feel, and act in ways that support collective healing and transformation. The exercises and prompts in the book are thought-provoking and intentionally crafted to transform our relationship with ourselves, one another, and the world. Machado offers piercing questions confronting painful and uncomfortable truths, yet her approach invites reflection without despair. Instead, readers are guided toward new ways of engaging with our human and more-than-human kin, grounded in humility, connection, and imagination.


The Palace at the End of the Sea: A Novel (Theo Sterling)

The Palace at the End of the Sea is a classic bildungsroman, a story of a young man coming of age in a complicated world. Theo Sterling, our hero, begins his story with the Great Depression in New York City, where his father does his best to keep his garment factory afloat. His life will later take him to a boarding school in England, then to Andalusia as World War II approaches.

The first part of the story felt very familiar to me, though I could not put my finger on why. I soon realized it was because most of the characters felt like stock figures, archetypes meant to illustrate some philosophical point or move the story along. A few of them had moments of depth, but for the most part, what you see on first encountering a character is how they will remain for the rest of their time in the narrative.

Approaching this book as a character-driven novel left me unimpressed, but I enjoyed it more when I took it as a sort of historical parable. I’ll definitely look out for the follow-up book.


Dead in the Frame

If you’re a fan of snappy dialogue, gutsy heroines, and 1940s New York, the Pentecost and Parker mystery series is just the ticket for you. Will Parker doggedly works to free her boss, Lillian Pentecost, from the notorious House of D (D for detention), where she awaits trial. The murdered man was odious, a collector of violence and other people’s pain, and had publicly declared his intention to ruin Ms. P’s vaunted reputation as a detective. But she couldn’t have been the one who pulled the trigger—could she? When Will isn’t running up against dead ends, barely restraining herself from decking obstinate witnesses, and making smart-aleck remarks, we are treated to Ms. P’s jailhouse journal as she struggles to keep her fear in check. A colorful cast of characters blends well with thoughtful insights on the price of cruelty and revenge that seem particularly apt in these times—another whip-smart entry in the Pentecost and Parker series. Reading the five books in order gives an extra pay-off, but you can dive right in with this newest one.


Breath of the Dragon

The Breath of the Dragon is an exciting, fast-paced martial arts fantasy thriller and the first book in the Breathmarked series. This book has the feel of a Bruce Lee kung fu movie, and for good reason. The inspiration for this novel came from the writings and ideas of Bruce Lee. Shannon Lee, Bruce Lee’s daughter, collaborated with award-winning fantasy author Fonda Lee to create this masterpiece. Their novel combines ass-kicking fight scenes with an engaging plot and dynamic characters.

Fonda Lee’s genius is front and center with her detailed and striking world-building. Fonda goes into great detail in the creation of the culture, religions, and social hierarchy. When Fonda creates a new setting for a book, she goes way beyond just a simple map. She breathes life into the settings of her stories. With teenage protagonists, this book is a coming-of-age young-adult novel. Much of this book’s fun is experiencing the characters’ growth. The compelling character development combined with an exciting storyline and edge-of-your-seat fight scenes is just the beginning of an epic fantasy series. This is all the action-packed kung-fu fury of a Bruce Lee film melded with Fonda Lee’s creativity.


Bonded in Death (In Death, 60)

I was excited to receive a copy of the latest J.D. Robb suspense novel from her In Death series. Eve Dallas is a fantastic protagonist and sometimes I forget that the books are set so far in the future. In this book, Dallas is called out personally when a faux version of her business card found on a dead man tells her that there will be other murders. The card is found on a man named Giovanni Rossi, an ex-spy who served during the Urban Wars. The group he belonged to, also known as The Twelve, all have code names. His was Wasp. They also each have a specific set of skills.

Dallas, Peabody, and Rourke quickly figure out who the murderer is and it is a cat-and-mouse chase that ensues. Although I enjoyed the characters and the dialogue, I found myself rather bored about halfway through the story. We already knew who Dallas was looking for and despite the action scene, it really was just a bunch of running around. Overall, this book was an easy read, however, it wasn’t as engaging as the others I’ve read in the series.


Avery and the Fairy Circle

Avery and the Fairy Circle is about a young girl who recently moved to a new town; while exploring her backyard, she discovers it is more magical than she ever anticipated. Rummaging past unknowingly magical mushrooms transports her to the invisible world of fairies, where she makes a deal with one friendly girl who isn't much different than herself. When the bargain is complete, and she's back in the land of the "big," Avery is told she can visit again when the time is right.

This story is presented in graphic novel format, which initially drew me in because this is one of my preferred formats to read; I am also a fan of fairies and the fantasy genre, which did not disappoint me in this book. Readers who enjoy fantasy and are around Avery's age (to possibly interject themselves in her place) will have a great time on Avery's journey with the fairies and the fairy circle! The way the story ends seems to allow for future stories to happen, so I am curious to see if there will be more stories of Avery and the fairies.


Wayward Girls: A Novel

Having read and loved other works by Susan Wings, I was excited to read Wayward Girls, especially because it focuses on young women during the Vietnam era who are sent away for various reasons. It was disheartening to discover the unevenness of this novel.

The first 200 pages, set in 1968, tell the compelling story of Mairin O'Hara, whose mother sends her to live with the Catholic Sisters of the Good Shepherd at a home for wayward girls. Mairin's only sin is that she is beautiful, and her stepfather has taken too much of an interest in her. At the home, she meets young women who are pregnant through uneducated dalliances with boyfriends and girls who have been raped as well as girls whose poverty stricken families simply couldn't support them. The home is dangerous, the women who run it are cruel, and the wayward girls aren't safe.

There is a sudden time shift that covers eight years in the next sixty pages, and the final 100 pages of the novel jump ahead 50 years. It is a whiplash pace that doesn't do justice to Mairin or the other characters, and it's a real disappointment. While the premise and some of the writing in Wayward Girls are excellent, I wish Wiggs had made this a two- or three-book series to develop all the threads she created, which simply get lost.


The Felons' Ball: A Novel

Family is always complicated, and no one knows that better than Natalie, who navigates her father’s birthday party while balancing her secret relationship with his best friend. Keeping that secret becomes harder when she discovers her boyfriend’s body, which shines an unfortunate light on her family. As she digs into the past, she begins to wonder if his son’s disappearance years ago is connected and quickly learns there’s a reason the past should stay buried.

The story is primarily grounded in the family dynamics, with the murder catalyzing the exposure of secrets from the past and producing present-day drama. These dynamics drum up buried feelings in Natalie and her family members, which adds a delightful amount of chaos. Each character is flawed in some way, making them feel more realistic and unpredictable in the choices they make. The mystery elements lead to startling revelations and a surprising conclusion as Natalie is forced to confront everything she’s avoided. The secrets steadily pile up until everything explodes, which effectively keeps you engaged in the story and wanting to know more. The Felon’s Ball is an engaging mystery about family secrets, facing the past, and the choices you make.


Is This My Final Form? (Penguin Poets)

Poet Amy Gerstler's most recent collection, Is This My Final Form?, is a cipher through which the experience of women and men and all in between can be understood. As she works through feelings about aging, the poems field images of animals; as she considers what comes next, a theme of metamorphosis emerges, but it is not always positive. The collection, which includes a ten-minute play titled "Siren Island," isn't one meditation on living—it's 77 pages of questions answered in stunning description.

The collection opens with what I'll call a prologue poem since it appears prior to the start of section one; there are five labeled sections to the book. This poem, "When I Was a Bird," laments what was lost while also celebrating what once existed. It includes language of flight, sex, birth, and disbelief—all hallmarks of a human life—and serves as a brilliant introduction to the rest of the book.

Some of the standout poems for me are those written for characters. "The Bride of Frankenstein" and "Mae West Sonnet" both appear in section one and are simultaneously heartbreaking and clever. Not laugh-out-loud funny, but there is a humor in their darkness. Section three includes two prose poems, "Mr. Moderation" and "The Fall," which, when read together, illustrate two different kinds of dissatisfaction with the everyday. But the stunner appears on page 60: a brief poem titled "One Who Is Always Arriving" may well be the best newly written love poem I've read in a long while.


Scam: Inside Southeast Asia's Cybercrime Compounds

Cybercrime appears to be growing, and despite the warnings, victims are still lured into cunning traps originating in Southeast Asia. The authors report on interviews with survivors of scam compounds in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. Survivors came from mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Uganda, Malaysia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, and Brazil. The book is filled with stories of scam operations, the slave conditions of the deceived workers, and their helplessness once they have been lured into the system. The book covers many stories of the dismal conditions and the unreliability of legal or government assistance. Many of the sources are in Asian languages, so the author’s translations are essential. The reader can only be astonished and horrified by the accounts of this nefarious cybercrime scenario. What is especially concerning is that the governments seem to ignore the cybercrime industry and offer no help for its victims. It is heavy and depressing reading.


The Invisible Spy: Churchill's Rockefeller Center Spy Ring and America’s First Secret Agent of World War II

Ernest Cuneo was a man who ran in influential circles from the 1930s onward, serving as a staffer to future New York Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia and as a junior member of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Brain Trust.” The former NFL player was a lawyer whose valuable legal advice garnered him famed clients such as journalists Drew Pearson and Walter Winchell. As World War II raged, Cuneo would assume a far more significant position: a key intermediary between a British espionage operation and the nascent US intelligence agency, the Office of Strategic Services(OSS). As the British Security Coordination ran propaganda and covert operations against isolationists, fifth columnists and actual Nazis in the US, Cuneo passed information between BSC head William Stephenson and OSS head William Donovan. Cuneo’s role would remain hidden for many years because of his reticence, yet his assistance remained indispensable.

The Invisible Spy is an enthralling real-life spy thriller by journalist Thomas Maier(“Mafia Spies”). Ernest Cuneo was not your average covert operator, but he took to his patriotic mission with alacrity. Maier has written a comprehensive account of a political operator, litigator, friend, and confidant to both spy and celebrity who left his mark on the world.


Not Quite Dead Yet: A Novel

Jet Mason was attacked on Halloween night, which left her with a brain injury that will kill her in a week. She’s Not Quite Dead Yet, so she’s going to use what little time she has left to solve her murder. Jet spends the next few days digging up every clue she can find, but where they lead is somewhere far darker than she could have ever imagined. Before her time runs out, she will uncover answers she didn’t even know she had questions for and discover a little bit more about herself along the way.

Jet seems like she would have been a really fun person to get to know, so this book is hard to read, spending so much time with her before she’s gone. The author brings you along for quite the thrill ride as you not just solve Jet’s murder, but also experience what it’s like for her in the week leading up to her death. If you enjoy mysteries and messed-up families, then you need to add this book to your reading list.


99% Perspiration: A New Working History of the American Way of Life

The author details compelling evidence that Americans work longer and harder for increasingly diminished rewards. He compares the American way of work unfavorably to France and other countries, which maintain greater productivity despite larger benefits and fewer working hours. He also dispels the myth of the Puritan ethos that hard work assures its own rewards. That if one expends enough energy, passion, and time at the labor, success will follow. However, with ample evidence in this book to refute that belief, it is a certainty that Americans have been sold a bill of goods by those who would profit enormously from the labor of their workers. He doesn’t see that AI offers a better way of existence for those who are used and then replaced by robots. His solution is the guaranteed income so that people can buy food and exist, albeit at a minimal level. Surely, that little investment in children and their families can reap rich rewards regarding the American way of life and living—an essential read.


The Icarus Coda (7) (The Icarus Saga)

The Icarus Coda by best-selling author Timothy Zahn is the final chapter in his award-winning series, Icarus Saga. Being the sixth book in this exciting, binge-worthy series, previous events make much more sense when read in order. Comparing this book to the rest of the series and other Zahn novels, The Icarus Coda is more action-packed with more interplanetary fight and chase scenes. The same characters who are involved in all the added drama are the highlights of this series. Zahn is a master at character development, and even after six books, there are no boring or forgettable players. Zahn introduces an essential new character for this book that helps explain everything that has led up to this point and adds to the overall delight and humor of this book.

In The Icarus Coda, we follow Roarke and his partner Selene while hunting for one last portal. The plot of all six books is similar, but the beauty of this series is the twists, turns, and misdirection Zahn throws to the readers. As finales go, this book and its ending are incredibly satisfying. As Gregory Roarke so elegantly put it, we are “Reaching the end of a long twisty road.”


The Society of Unknowable Objects: A Novel

Magnolia earned her spot in the Society of Unknowable Objects the same way everyone else did, with the death of a family member who was once part of the society. In Magnolia’s case, it was her mom. After her mother’s death, Magnolia was presented with a letter from her mother explaining her new responsibilities, keeping the world safe from the magic that not many know about. And like many secret societies, the truth is just as hidden. Magnolia travels the globe where the society sends her looking for these objects, but others are also searching. Danger, mystery, and magical objects can be hidden anywhere.

The Society of Unknowable Objects by best-selling author Gareth Brown is part mystical, intrigue, and mystery. Brown’s novel is also a bit of magical realism and a bit of a paranormal thriller. Brown’s characters are not supernatural, nor are they magical. They are normal, everyday people who happen to be involved with a secret society that hunts for magical objects hidden in plain sight. Brown’s novel feels like a mix of the television shows The Librarians and Warehouse 13. The beauty of Brown’s story is the normalcy of his characters and settings, with hidden bits of magic thrown in.


Blood Ties: A Novel

Roy Opgard and his younger brother Carl run a business empire in the town of Os. Roy has handled any threats to their business with ruthless efficiency. Roy has acted as his brother’s keeper for decades, whether it be cleaning up Carl’s messes or becoming an accomplice to his crimes. There is a sizable body count that has accumulated as a result of this fraternal devotion. Local Sheriff Kurt Olsen has been gunning for Roy for years, as he believes Roy murdered his father, the former sheriff of Os. As Roy must deal with the scrutiny of law enforcement, he begins to question his loyalty to his brother and wonder if the bond of brotherhood has become an albatross.

Jo Nesbo has distinguished himself as a superb writer of the mystery thriller with his Harry Hole series, along with other standout novels. Blood Ties continues to show his versatility in crafting riveting crime fiction. Roy and Carl Opgard are fascinating lead characters who are united by birth as well as their shared crimes. Nesbo subtly builds the tension until the inevitable but engrossing showdown.


Holmes Is Missing: A Holmes, Margaret & Poe Mystery

Holmes is Missing is the next book in the Holmes, Margaret, and Poe series by James Patterson and Brian Sitts. In this story, the three detectives are hired by a group of parents who have had their newborn babies kidnapped from a hospital. Margaret and Poe must pick up Holmes from his rehabilitation center first. Then they get to work.

What I love is the storyline of this book. The detectives are able to figure out that the bracelets that monitor the babies are defunct. Then they look at who was and wasn’t on staff when the babies were kidnapped. The clues unravel neatly, almost too neatly.

The part that I didn’t particularly like was Holmes backstory. He’s a very high maintenance character and I feel that he brings the other two characters down with his dramatics.

Overall, the story reads quickly and easily. In true Patterson tradition, the chapters are very short which also makes the book more digestible. I would recommend this to those who are already Patterson fans. It’s not his best work, but it’s entertaining enough.


Stolen Histories (The Infinite Night Saga)

Amari Kato is a thief of some notoriety who abhors the corruption she sees in the world and looks to strike back at the amoral elites. She and her roommate Taliya live in the city of Castor, where they make their living off Amari’s larcenous pursuits. The pair can function efficiently as Amari is a seer, and Taliya can control water. Their criminal exploits often come with complications, as when in the midst of robbing magic tokens, Amari and Taliya were forced to reckon with a dragon. They were able to get away with their lives, but extra care would need to be taken with their next heist.

The next job would be of someone else’s choosing, as Taliya would be confronted by men seeking to hire the duo for a high-profile and dangerous break-in at an archive belonging to the royal family. Amari’s desire to steal from and embarrass the Abolon Empire proves alluring, but a significant job requires a team of skilled brigands. Soon, Amari and Taliya are leading a group of individuals, such as Erika, a nullifier, and fighters like Najaah and Kol. Amari will use an intense training course to test their limits and prove their mettle before embarking on their dangerous mission.

\Amari and her assemblage of warriors will need to be stealthy in their movements as they attempt to pull off the robbery of a lifetime. As they will find out, getting in may be easy, but escaping will prove formidable, especially when up against the armed guards of the empire.

Stolen Histories is an intelligent and rousing fantasy tale set in an urban dystopia in the distant future. The population of Castor and neighboring cities is an atypical lot in their biological hybrid makeup and special abilities, yet their motivations are all very human. Amari believes in the righteousness of her actions, even though the consequences for them may prove deadly. Erika is a precocious student of history with something to prove, and later exudes courage under fire when tested. Secrecy emerges as a key theme in the story, as Amari hides a key to her identity from the group, as does Erika. Despite each member’s differences, they will need to place trust in the other and come together as a cohesive unit. Author B.R. Michaels has done an excellent job in creating an eclectic group of rogues who bring humor, personality, and gravitas to the dynamic narrative. This novel proved to be adrenaline-filled from start to finish.


As a parent navigating the tightrope walk between encouraging independence and providing support, I found Embrace Your Freedom: Winning Strategies to Succeed in College and in Life to be more than just a guidebook for incoming college students—it’s a heartfelt and deeply practical manual for launching young adults into the world. Written by Philip A. Glotzbach, President Emeritus of Skidmore College, the book is part roadmap, part pep talk, and part life philosophy, all grounded in decades of experience in higher education and parenting.

What stands out most is Glotzbach’s understanding of the emotional and intellectual leap college demands. In the opening chapter, he likens the transition to being “between trapezes”—a vivid and honest metaphor for the exhilaration and fear students (and their parents) feel during this life change. He doesn’t downplay the challenges, but instead frames them as opportunities for growth. This sets the tone for the book’s central message: embracing freedom requires responsibility, self-awareness, and intention.

Glotzbach structures the book in three thoughtful sections: the "Big Picture" of what a college education is really for; “Eight Steps to a Highly Successful Life,” which reads like a motivational yet grounded checklist; and finally, a crucial section for parents. As a mother, I especially appreciated Chapters 10 and 11, which address our role in this journey—not as managers, but as partners. The advice to “be supportive but not intrusive” resonates, and I found myself bookmarking passages to return to during moments of worry or uncertainty.

Throughout, Glotzbach draws on real stories—like that of Chris, a Skidmore alum who shifted from aspiring writer to successful app developer—to illustrate the unpredictable yet rewarding paths that liberal arts education can foster. His argument that students need a “cognitive Swiss Army knife” to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market is both compelling and reassuring, especially for those of us who worry about the future our children are stepping into.

What elevates this book beyond standard college prep fare is its emphasis on lifelong learning, civic engagement, and personal integrity. Glotzbach doesn’t just want students to graduate; he wants them to become thoughtful, resilient, and responsible citizens. His voice is warm, wise, and refreshingly unpretentious.

Whether you're a student preparing for campus life or a parent navigating the letting-go process, Embrace Your Freedom offers comfort and challenge. It reminded me that education is not just about career readiness—it’s about becoming fully human. And that’s a message worth passing on.


Bird Without a Cage: Book One in the Bird Without a Cage Series

Brandon Zenner’s Bird Without a Cage is a vivid, immersive plunge into the chaos of 1940 France—equal parts war diary and existential reckoning. Told through the eyes of a French quartermaster, Zenner’s novel is a rare kind of historical fiction: intimate without being sentimental, and grand in scale without ever losing its grip on the human pulse.

Set during the German invasion of France, the novel chronicles the fall of Sarrebourg’s 23rd Company of Intendance as they attempt to evacuate ahead of the Nazi advance. What begins as an organized withdrawal quickly unravels into a desperate flight through crumbling cities, bombed bridges, and endless convoys of displaced civilians. Through it all, Zenner's narrator, a sharp-witted clerk with a poet’s heart, reflects on duty, futility, and the strange, stubborn hope of survival.

One of the novel’s most compelling themes is the illusion of control. Early in the book, the warehouse clerks are confident in their routine, typing inventory while the war rages elsewhere. But Zenner slowly peels away that sense of order. When Lieutenant Serre finally announces that the unit must evacuate without a clear destination, the dread is palpable. The warehouse—a symbol of structure and logic—burns, and with it, the narrator’s old identity.

Zenner’s prose is both brisk and lyrical. A standout scene occurs during an air raid in Bourbonne-les-Bains: “My heart thumps against my uniform as if it might explode from my chest like a hand grenade.” That line stuck with me, a visceral encapsulation of panic. Similarly, when the convoy watches a village burn by night, the narrator calls it “apocalypse tonight,” a grim nod to both literary gravitas and black humor—something the book wields with skill.

There’s also surprising tenderness here. In one scene, the narrator helps a mother carry her children during the chaotic climb over a lock wall. It’s a moment that underscores the novel’s central metaphor—people, like birds, caged by circumstance, fluttering toward freedom. When a literal birdcage is left behind, its door swinging open, it lands like a gut punch: liberation, perhaps, but at what cost?

If Bird Without a Cage has a flaw, it’s that the relentless pace and military jargon may overwhelm readers unfamiliar with World War II minutiae. But for those willing to surrender to its current, the novel is both harrowing and beautiful.

Zenner has crafted more than just a war novel; he’s delivered a meditation on displacement, resilience, and the aching weight of history. Highly recommended.


Brandon Zenner’s Bird Without a Cage is a deeply immersive and hauntingly beautiful account of the French retreat during the summer of 1940, as seen through the eyes of a young military clerk named Zenner. With a quiet elegance and a historian’s eye for detail, Zenner constructs a narrative that is both intensely personal and epic in scope. From the confines of a warehouse in Sarrebourg to the desperate escape through rural France, this novel captures the emotional, physical, and psychological toll of a country collapsing under the weight of war.

At the heart of this novel lies a powerful theme of displacement—soldiers without weapons, civilians without homes, and a protagonist without answers. As Zenner navigates the chaos of evacuation, the novel becomes a meditation on the absurdities of bureaucracy in wartime, the fragility of human endurance, and the longing for dignity amidst dehumanizing conditions. Particularly poignant are the scenes where Zenner and his fellow soldiers try to maintain order among crowds of terrified refugees, offering compassion where they can and confronting the helplessness of their situation.

The camaraderie between Zenner, Mazas, and Longchamps provides the emotional anchor of the story. Their interactions are laced with dry humor, shared frustration, and mutual respect—human moments that shine against the backdrop of political failure and military disarray. Zenner’s internal reflections on love, family, and what it means to serve in a war that seems lost before it has truly begun are quietly devastating, particularly when paired with the imagery of firelit towns, bombed-out roads, and endless lines of fleeing citizens.

The themes Zenner carries throughout—disillusionment, sacrifice, resilience, and the chaos of leadership in crisis—are rendered with a clear, unflinching gaze. There’s an underlying tenderness to the prose, particularly in how Zenner observes the world around him, whether it’s a fellow soldier’s nervous tic, a mother’s trembling hands, or the smell of butter on a rare café steak. These details remind the reader that beauty and humanity persist even in war.

Bird Without a Cage is not a sweeping tale of battlefield heroism, but rather an intimate and moving portrayal of survival, retreat, and the quiet grace of decency in the face of despair. It left me with a heavy heart and a profound admiration for Zenner’s voice—resigned, observant, and ultimately, deeply human. It’s a story I’ll carry with me for a long time—haunted not just by the tragedy of war, but by the compassion that endured within it.