A Killer Clue (A Hunter and Clewe Mystery)

Jane isn’t eager to get involved with another murder case but when Eloise arrives asking for her and Cam’s help, she can’t bring herself to say no. Eloise’s mother went to prison for killing her husband but Eloise insists that she was innocent. Now that her mother has passed away she wants help finally clearing her name. When the detective who worked the case is found dead, the woman is the prime suspect. Jane and Cam believe this to be the same killer but can they prove it in time to spare Eloise from suffering the same fate as her mother?

Jane and Cam have a delightful partnership that drives the sleuthing forward and creates a humorous back-and-forth. The primary theme of the mystery is heartfelt and genuine as the series focuses on cold cases which is a lovely way of exploring how the cases are never forgotten. These cases matter years later as those impacted are still dealing with the trauma, grief, and pain. Gilbert uses these emotions to give the mystery a richness that is unique and different from typical cozies which is refreshing and addicting. You can feel that this series is only gaining traction as Gilbert gives life to these characters and emotion to this case with A Killer Clue.


Star Wars The Rise and Fall of the Galactic Empire (Dk Star Wars)

The Star Wars franchise has become a huge part of our modern-day mythology. From its iconic characters to the multiple storylines and the ever-growing number of contributors, what started out as a long-ago tale from a distant galaxy has exploded into an incredible universe. Star Wars has its own wiki-based encyclopedia. Now, the franchise can boast catalog and archival writings by a true historian.

The Rise and Fall of the Galactic Empire by Dr. Chris Kempshall is an in-depth chronicling of Sheev Palpatine’s vision for the galaxy. This book gets very technical. Kempshall digs into the nitty gritty of the Empire, but what would you expect from a history book? Even as a Star Wars fan, many of the backstories and inner workings of the Galactic Empire were new to me. Kempshall adopts the role of a research specialist in ancient Sith studies and lecturer at the Historical Institute of Lerct, keeping this a light-hearted book while still exploring key battles and life in general for the Imperial society. This book is great for Star Wars fanatics who want to explore beyond the stories. Every true Imperial wonk should own The Rise and Fall of the Galactic Empire.


Red Rabbit

In Red Rabbit, we meet a cast of interesting characters. There is Sadie Grace, wanted for witchcraft, and Old Tom, a witch-hunter who has come to collect the bounty on her head. With Old Tom is his ward Rabbit, who doesn’t speak for reasons unknown. On their way to collect the bounty, they meet up with Moses Burke and Ned Hemingway, two aimless cowboys who decide to tag along, and Rose Nettles, who recently lost her husband. Their journey will cover many miles, they will meet many more characters, and they will face untold dangers, only to find that they have grown fond of each other, and things will turn out a lot different than they thought. At the end of this trail, there will be a battle they might not be prepared for.

This is the best book I’ve read all year. Set in the Old West but full of witches, shapeshifters, demons, ghosts, and cannibals. It’s everything I love, and it is all put into one story. The characters are fantastic, and the story is fantastically written. I couldn’t put it down and absolutely cannot wait to read the author’s next story. I highly recommend this book unless you’re squeamish.


The Darkest Night

If you’re anything like me, you dread the winter holiday season. The best holiday of the year (Halloween, obviously) is over and the thought of cozying up in front of the tv with overly-saccharine holiday specials while frantically scrolling through Black Friday deals to find the perfect present for the white elephant party you definitely don’t want to attend is giving you chills. Enter The Darkest Night, an absolutely spine-tingling collection of twenty-two winter-themed horror stories from some of the most well-known names in horror.

Whether you’re a splatterpunk aficionado, an atmospheric dread connoisseur, or an average Joe or Jolene looking for a less wholesome entertainment option to go with your third plate of pie, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. From scream queen Darcy Coates to master of thrills Josh Malerman, there really is something in this anthology for everyone. This collection is especially useful for new horror fans looking to get into the genre as it showcases some of its best and brightest authors to serve as a jumping off point to explore their other work.


What We Sacrifice for Magic

Elisabeth has just graduated but her future has already been mapped out as she is expected to take her grandmother’s place. The path she is meant to take is simple: become the head of her family, marry her high school boyfriend, and stay in town. But she wants more. She longs to understand why her path must be chosen for her. Eventually, she uncovers a startling secret about her family and quickly learns that even the most beautiful magic can be costly. As she discovers more about what she wants, she’ll soon find herself having to decide what she’s willing to sacrifice.

The character of Elisabeth is introduced as a strong-willed character relishing in small defiances and feeling as if something is missing. She is a relatable character whose story is rooted in self-discovery which adds depth to the character-driven style. The magic is beautifully woven into the world with a realism to it that is grounded by the family dynamics and the bond they share through generations. These are crucial to the story as familial love and complications are what push her to the decisions that she makes. What We Sacrifice For Magic is a lovely story about family, magic, self-discovery, and understanding what you’re willing to sacrifice.


A Sorceress Comes to Call

Since T. Kingfisher is well known for her lusciously dark fantasy novels, I was really excited to pick up A Sorceress Comes to Call as my first foray into her writing. While the novel is very smoothly written, with vivid descriptions and well-orchestrated character development, I was still left slightly disappointed with the storyline.

Marketed as a dark retelling of the classic Grimm story of the Goose Girl, this novel follows Cordelia, a fourteen-year-old girl who comes to realize that her mother is not what she seems. The story begins with Cordelia being made “obedient” by her mother, which amounts to complete bodily control. She does this on a regular basis, as well as not allowing Cordelia any ounce of privacy or friendship outside of her mother’s horse, Falada.

After losing control of her benefactor, Cordelia’s mother decides to pull up stakes and ensnare an aging Squire into marriage. Only the Squire’s sister is suspicious from the start, and she and her friends vow to help Cordelia find her freedom and rescue the Squire from certain doom. More inspired by the original than a complete retelling, this novel would be perfect for fans of YA-style fantasy.


Dismantling Mass Incarceration

Premal Dharia, Jr, James Forman, Maria Hawilo

Increased awareness about social justice issues has spurred more interest and advocacy for addressing mass incarceration. Many books define the problem, particularly the racialized reality of policing, justice, and prison systems in the United States. However, they don’t do enough to offer possible solutions for the interwoven issues surrounding everyday choices and decisions that impact the lives of countless incarcerated individuals.

In Dismantling Mass Incarceration, editors Premal Dharia, James Forman, Jr., and Maria Hamilo compile essays from distinguished thinkers, policymakers, legal experts, and activists about different parts of the complex mass incarceration “nonsystem:” police, prosecutors, public defenders, judges, and prisons. Each is a part of disparate systems that are interrelated but mostly isolated from the other.

As a diversity educator focused on organizations, I bring knowledge of – but no direct experience in – the practices of law enforcement, legal, and prison systems. Notable contributors such as Ruth Wilson Gilmore, Angela J. Davis, and Charles Ogletree Jr., illuminate the complex, inequitable, and often inefficient dynamics that hinder justice. Dismantling Mass Incarceration encourages readers to consider various pragmatic perspectives from scholars and activists and to contemplate how they might contribute to solutions.

The editors urge readers to do what they can in their own community, to plug into the organizing that is already happening. This book, with its potential to inspire meaningful change, would serve as an excellent teaching tool for law students, social justice leaders, and others committed to social reform.


Things Don't Break on Their Own: A Novel

Over twenty years ago, Willa’s sister, Laika, disappeared. It has affected every part of Willa’s life and she has never given up searching. Things come to a head when Willa goes to a dinner party thrown by her first love where some guests may just give Willa the answers she has been so desperately seeking. Told from the perspective of Willa and Robyn, her first love, the story slowly unfolds and past is made clear. The dinner party guests begin to finally understand that Things Don’t Break on Their Own.

This story turned out a lot different than I thought. What was really interesting is that from the description, you would think the whole story was told from Willa’s point of view, but you actually spend more time learning things from Robyn’s. I’m also not entirely sure what to think about that ending. It seems like the summary of the story is actually somewhat misleading and nothing is turns out like you expect, but not in a good twist kind of way. Overall, if you like super sad stories about dysfunctional relationships, this is the story for you.


Not Nothing

Alex, twelve, is having a rough time. His dad is not around, his mother has serious mental health issues, and Alex, who did something very bad, has been sent to live with an aunt and uncle who clearly don’t want him. To top it off, his social worker assigns Alex to “volunteer” at a senior living center, and he has to take orders from Maya-Jade, a bossy girl his age.

A stomach bug puts the center into lockdown, and Alex delivers meals to seniors in their rooms. One hundred seven-year-old Josey, a holocaust survivor, who hasn’t spoken in years, speaks to Alex. Thus begins an odd but life-changing friendship. Alex finds working with the seniors and with Maya-Jade is something he likes, but then his bad act comes knocking on his door.

Author Gayle Forman has written a real page-turner of a novel with a bit of history, mystery, and a lot of heart. The point of view is a little confusing at first, but that’s part of the mystery. The story belongs to two characters, and that’s unusual, but Forman weaves their stories tightly together into a marvelous tapestry. This deserves readership far beyond the targeted middle-grade readers. Don’t miss it.


A Slay Ride Together With You (Year-Round Christmas Mystery)

Merry is excited to help her best friend Vicky plan her wedding to Mark Grosse and move into their new home. The move into the Cole House doesn’t go smoothly when estranged relatives attempt to contest the will and claim the house as their own. To top it off, the house may be haunted. It certainly feels cursed after Mark is found standing over a dead body. If there’s going to be a wedding, Merry and Vicky will need to work together to clear Mark’s name. As they search for answers, many suspects are brought to light that may lead them to a killer.

The Cole House is a significant location as its history plays a key role in the mystery and serves as a catalyst for the investigation. The mystery is personal as the two friends are determined to clear Mark’s name and give them motivation to get involved. This gives the story a richness that grounds its emotion and makes the need to solve the mystery pressing. The friendship between Merry and Vicky is genuine and provides a great deal of heart. The mystery has plenty of surprises along the way and continues the same feelings of joy and merriment experienced in the first books. A perfect read for cozy mystery lovers as A Slay Ride Together With You proves that the series only gets better and better.


It Came from the Trees

This is the perfect season to read a book about the Legend of Bigfoot. When the Girl Scout group goes to the woods to find their missing friend. It seems that they are into more than they have bargained for. No one seems to believe the girls, not even the police. In the woods, they find large human-looking footprints, making them wonder if the legend is true. The girls will have to be brave and band together in order to have a chance against this large, ominous creature. What they don't know is how to save their friend. Read this book to find out.

This was a good book, perfect for spooky season. I liked this book. I really enjoy reading tales about bigfoot and other legends.


Den of Iniquity: An Edge-of-Your-Seat Mystery with Deep Suspense, Perfect for Fall 2024, Dive into a Complex Investigation in Small-Town Ashland (J. P. Beaumont Novel, 23)

Den of Iniquity is the first book I have read by J.A. Jance and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Ex-police officer J.P. Beaumont, or Beau, is a private investigator who finds himself doing some pro-bono work. When a young man dies from what the police say is an accidental fentanyl overdose, the young man's grandmother is sure that it was no accident. Beau is approached by a young man named Ben, whom he helped many years ago when Ben was a child. Ben, now a Seattle police officer, asks Beau to look into the case since it has been closed by the police. When Beau does some digging, he finds out that the case of the fentanyl overdose has things in common with several other cases, including two old one hundred dollar bills left behind with each victim.

The story has a parallel storyline with Beau's family. After feeling uncomfortable living with his dad and new girlfriend, his grandson comes to live with Beau and his wife, Mel. Beau digs up information on the girlfriend and finds some deep secrets.

This book was fast-paced and entertaining from cover to cover. The characters were likable and well-developed. I'm looking forward to reading more of Jance's novels.


The Wrong Hands: The Next Detective Miller Novel (Detective Miller Novels, 2)

Andy & Keith felt their larcenous plan was sound: a quick snatch & grab at a train station bathroom. They didn’t foresee the gruesome contents in their loot or the murderous nature of their intended mark. Andy is concerned enough to contact the police through a discrete friend. He leaves the briefcase with Detective Sergeant Declan Miller in hopes of freeing himself from future trouble. Declan Miller sees the pair of mutilated hands in the briefcase and knows there is an organized crime connection to the amputated appendages. Miller opts to hold onto the case to use it as leverage in learning information about his wife’s recent murder.

Unfortunately, this plan is as ill-conceived as Andy & Keith’s caper as a psychopathic hitman has begun a path of murderous mayhem to reclaim the briefcase. Miller must rely on more than his rapier wit in solving his latest case.

Mark Billingham is more than adept in penning a clever detective novel as his past work(“Tom Thorne” series) has illustrated. Whereas Thorne can be brooding and methodical, Miller is idiosyncratic but also engaging. Miller is a flawed man, yet a cunning copper who enlivens every scene he’s in. Billingham has written another exceptional mystery novel.


One Shining Soul

Olisa's father, Joseph Timmerman, hopes to keep her gift hidden from the world. Unfortunately, things get out of hand when she uses her powers to heal the injured and sick people around her. Word quickly gets out, and Olisa becomes a sort of celebrity in the gang-infested world of Los Angeles and beyond. Joseph is worried about people exploiting her for her gift, especially since she's being contacted by religious organizations and the media. Still, a supernatural encounter convinces him to accept that her path is being directed by God. One Shining Soul by Joseph Timmerman follows the story of a gifted girl and the healing effect her presence brings to a troubled world. Is our protagonist, Joseph Timmerman, ready to let God have his way in the lives of his family and the people they're surrounded by?

I liked that the book has many powerful, gripping scenes—the type to make you feel goosebumps on your skin and gasp in awe. Olisa's gift is very impressive, and I looked forward to its display with others. An example is when she finds out about a man's secret infidelity and advises him to do better by his family. Olisa is not only a healer. She has other exciting supernatural abilities that fans of books with gifted protagonists would love to follow, including hypnotism and mind reading.

The book thoroughly explores social themes, creating a large plot that involves gangs, politics, religious groups, racism, sexism, violence, economic issues, and other related themes. Biblical themes are also a significant part of the book's plot. Several inspiring messages are seen throughout its course, like the message that says, "God is available to us the minute we accept the reality of life," which inspired me to appreciate the beauty of the world around me.

The book seems to deviate too often to disparate issues, which can be distracting at times. It moves at a pace I thought was too fast and busy. For example, a paragraph after Olisa is seen at the beach reveals that she has a golden retriever named Freeloader, while the next paragraph shows her returning home. Also, many conversations felt rushed, and I was frequently confused about which of the characters were speaking.

Overall, One Shining Soul is a subtle reminder of Jesus' mission on Earth. I was touched by its core biblical messages but struggled with its excessively busy plot. Still, I liked that its characters are enchanting, and the plot reflects many societal issues in today's world. Wayne merges engaging drama with intense suspense and lifelike situations to create a tale that stands out in many ways.


People Will Talk

 People Will Talk is a fascinating suspense novel that centers around a wedding that was never supposed to happen. Peter Frank has three women who are in love with him. Peter is in love with tennis pro Maya and has kept in contact with Catherine, his college girlfriend whose event business he sponsors. But when his surprise marriage to socialite Tilly occurs, the women are up in arms. On top of that, his sister-in-law, who has been raising his son, is mad because he and Tilly are seeking full custody. When Tilly is killed on the night of the wedding, readers will follow the story from the viewpoints of Catherine, Maya, and Leanne to discover what happened that night.

Exciting from cover to cover, I loved the development of each chapter and how the plot unfolded as I read. There was never a dull moment in the story. Just when you think you know what happened, the truth comes to life. Full of deception and action, this book is perfect for fans of  B.A. Paris, Shari LaPena, and Mary Kubica.


Avatar, the Last Airbender: The Reckoning of Roku (Chronicles of the Avatar Book 5) (Chronicles of the Avatar, 5) (Volume 5)

The Avatar has been announced in the Fire Nation and now his journey and training are to begin. Roku is anything but ready to leave. In fact, he's not sure they didn't make a mistake and he's really not the Avatar. When his training leads to nothing and his old friend Prince Sozin asks him for a favor, as the Avatar and as a friend, that will prevent a war, Roku sets out to a fog hidden island to find answers.

I haven't read the previous, but have watched the show ages ago, even so, I was never lost, you just need to be familiar with the world. The plot was interesting, but at about three quarters the buildup stopped and got a little boring. There are almost too many characters to keep track of, but they all have unique personalities. There is one character death that is supposed to be impactful, but it was so sudden and blunt that I almost couldn't care. The reactions of the other characters is what made it impactful.


Young Blood (An Umbrella Academy YA Novel)

There are seven of them, six now without Five and does Viktor really count without powers? He just wants to be one of them; the others just want to be normal for one night, to fit in. And what's more normal than sneaking out to a college party? But they're teenagers who have super powers and were raised to fight, normal really isn't their thing. So, of course, the party they go to just so happens to not be as normal as it seems. What else could possibly go wrong?

If you've seen the show, this is a great tie-in prequel to the characters as teens. If you haven't seen the show, it's still enjoyable but there will be some things that don't make sense. The characters feel copy and paste; sure they each have a different desire and motives, but they all have the same voice. The plot is simple and there are definitely some holes, but it kept me engaged and wanting to know what happens next.


The Faraway Mountains

A story of friendship, connection, and solidarity, The Faraway Mountains by Radu Guiasu is a moving recollection of life during the Communist era in Eastern Europe. Following the stories of friends Alex, Gabriel, Victor, and Dan, readers are given a window into the harsh realities of urban life under an oppressive regime, one full of hardship, lies, and scarcity.

In part one, the story begins with Alex, Victor, and Dan on an intense hiking trip. Between violent storms, hungry bears, and perilous cliffs, the men are kept on their toes. In between these challenges, they are able to discuss life freely, a stark contrast to when they are walking in the streets of their town. Romania is full of policemen, and even more secret policemen, who have their ears and eyes open for possible “traitors” of the regime. Always eavesdropping, they tap into telephone lines, disguise themselves as common people, and go out of their way to spot anyone who may be talking ill of their country.

But out in the remote mountains, finally, these friends can speak candidly. Discussing the future of their country, the horrid living conditions, the school brainwashing, and the increasing aggravation of these issues, readers gain a powerful insight into what life looks like under a dictatorship. A reminder of the privilege of free speech and democracy in Western countries, this part of the novel deepened my gratitude for what I often take for granted. Readers can take away the understanding of oppression, and how important it is to fight for freedom.

Part two of the novel, although it brings into play all of the characters, focuses the most on Alex. With plans to emigrate, he has become the target of many. Unexplainably kicked out of his university despite being a top student, followed and threatened by policemen, constantly on the alert for danger – this is the life of someone trying to escape a communist country. Fortunately, his parents had escaped years earlier. Now notable professors at a prestigious Western university, they are able to lobby for their son, bringing the Romanian authorities into the spotlight for Alex’s release to join them. An eye-opener to the restrictive systems suppressing those from escaping, this book shows just how impossible it can be to flee.

Overall, this book does an excellent job of discussing life under communism. Readers not only gain perspective on the daily struggles of someone living under a regime but also the grim challenge of trying to leave. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in history, particularly communism in Europe.


The Faraway Mountains

Three friends travel to The Faraway Mountains before one of them escapes the oppressive regime of Romania and begins life in the West. Alex has been in the process of getting his passport for years, hoping to finally join his parents, who he hasn’t seen in three years after they went to Canada and decided not to come back. Dan and Victor join Alex on his trip, which has another purpose, to say goodbye to a friend they lost not long before, who just wanted to see the world, but was punished for his dreams.

Alex and his friends encounter strange locals, a bear and wild weather on their final hike together. They get to enjoy a little freedom, away from the prying eyes of the government, to be themselves and share their hopes and dreams. They each know that it is unlikely they will ever see each other again, as it will impossible to get back into Romania once you manage to get out. Alex will have to leave everything and everyone he loves behind in order to experience the freedom most North Americans take for granted. But he has to survive long enough to actually get on the plane.

My only critique of this story would be the disjointedness of the plot. There aren’t labels for the distant past and the more current past, so I got confused a few times when Gabriel’s or Dana’s story came up, not knowing exactly how it fit into the timeline. Other than that, it was incredibly interesting to see what life was like living under a dictatorship. This quote really stuck with me, “…in their East, only one version of history was allowed to survive.”

While Guiaşu is able to find humor in many of these situations, I can’t even imagine how hard it was to grow up in a communist country. Much of the story revolves around Alex just trying to get a passport. Some of these same stories appear in Guiaşu’s other work, A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists, but in a more light-hearted way.

I highly recommend that you check out both works as one will bring you joy and the other will open your eyes to a different way of life and the endurance of the human spirit. In The Faraway Mountains, you will also see the power of friendship at play and how we can withstand even the hardest of times when we have close friends. Take the time to broaden your horizons; you won’t regret it.


The Faraway Mountains

The Faraway Mountains by Radu Guiasu is about fictional characters living in a communist world. The story is inspired by the author's real experience of communism in Romania, reflecting some of the challenges he faced while growing up in the country. The Faraway Mountains is divided into two parts. In the first part of the book, we see three friends bonding as they hike through mountainous regions and battle the dangers of the natural world, from violent storms to flooded caves. We get to see what being in the military, going to school, and studying for a medical profession entails for the protagonists. The second part follows a man's path to leaving a communist world behind and the complexities of love. Radu's story takes us on a perilous, fun, and thought-provoking journey with a group of likable characters and their lifelike challenges.

 One thing that stands out about The Faraway Mountains is that it includes intelligent discussions about various topics, including education and communism. I especially enjoyed the discussion about having "the option of knowing the circumstances of your own death." As someone who loves to live in the moment, I resonated with Victor's stance: "I have enough worries already. Why add to the pile?"

The story constantly shifts between present and past events, creating an all-encompassing view of the external influences that shape the characters and their core thoughts. Alex often expresses thoughts about missing his friend Gabriel and even speaks to his other friends about the memories he has of him.

By the time I completed the book, I had grown in my appreciation of capitalism despite its flaws. Imagine being threatened with "everything from a long stint in the army to hard labor" and being monitored closely as you work towards traveling to another country. Radu paints the reality of living in a communist society with glaring colors, from one unbelievable inconvenience to another.

I disliked the fact that the book doesn't have many engaging scenes. It feels pretty relaxed in many places, hardly maintaining its captivating themes but constantly veering into discussions that seem to lead to no compelling direction. Though I completed the tale, I didn't feel a strong urge to get to the next page.

Despite wishing the book had more engaging themes, it offers readers a chance to explore various philosophical and political ideas. The characters are chatty, thoughtful, and attractively driven. Prepare to connect to their smartly portrayed emotional struggles and marvel at their eventful encounters.


The Faraway Mountains

Alex, Dan, and Victor, three good friends, embark on the adventure of their lives in the mountains in a local community in Romania. Set during the communist regime, where freedom is restricted and people live in fear of the authorities, these men must fight for their survival. Living in the mountains was daring, and they had different encounters with dangerous animals, faced terrific weather conditions, scary caves, and interesting locals. Alex had always longed to travel out of his homeland, and since he didn't feel committed to the place, making future plans was difficult, and he lacked stability. He had just broken up with his girlfriend Dana due to his instability, and living in the mountains with his friends was a great way of distracting himself from reality.

Each man had his battle to conquer. Victor was jittery, as he was getting married soon. His father-in-law was a strict man. Dan wanted to be a doctor like his other family members but soon realized the profession was tougher than he imagined. Alex had just gone through a breakup and was frustrated with his inability to explore the West. Therefore, they all needed an escape from their troubles, and the adventurous trip was a way of freeing themselves from their emotions and finding someone who could relate to their struggles.

The three men were resourceful and creative. Despite the challenges they faced, they had a positive attitude and were determined to weather through. The friends were also there to protect each other and support each other when necessary. Their friendship was beautiful because even though they had faced the worst together, they did not let go. The novel also highlighted the challenges of the locals and foreigners during the communist regime. Alex, who had always wanted to travel out of his country, experienced many difficulties in the process. I realized that while chasing your dreams, you could lose connection to some people who matter to you if you have to leave them behind.

The men had distinct personalities but found a way to stick together despite their differences. While reading the novel, I immersed myself in the story and imagined going on those daring adventures with them. For now, I don't think I am bold enough to climb mountains and pitch a tent there to stay in. The Faraway Mountains by Radu Guiasu is an interesting book with themes of adventure, politics, the search for freedom, and the reality of communist rule.


A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists is not your conventional funny collection of stories. The word "humorous" completely threw me off as I started to read the first few stories in this compilation. The first story, "You Haven't Lived Enough," is written in the first person and describes a man named Jake telling the first person character that the character can't be a writer because he hasn't lived enough. Then Jake drones on about his crazy life, riding with a traveling circus and washing ashore on a desert island inhabited by dangerous creatures. The story is wild, so I kept reading, waiting for a plot twist or a punchline. It soon felt as if the story was never going to end. At the end of the story, the character asks Jake why he hasn't become a writer, to which Jake says he doesn't have time for it and has never learned how to write anyway. I felt like the story was pointless.

Another story, which I did enjoy, was written in letter form to John Hammond, the character in Jurassic Park who creates the "real-life" dinosaurs. In it, the author calls Hammond out on several flaws in his park that would never allow dinosaurs to exist, let alone thrive. He brings up points such as dinosaurs created from ancient DNA could not survive in our current atmosphere or eat today's plants. The story is very well written and thought out, and I feel it has some valid points. It made me think, "What if we dissected all science fiction like this?"

A few stories were boring, and a few were plain silly. Towards the end of the book, the author starts writing lists. This was my favorite part of the book because each listed item was something a person could consider and expand on. For example, in "Twenty-Five Reasons Why the Chicken Crossed the Road," the author lists reasons such as "the rooster is on the other side" and "because it was hoping the pursuing fox would get squashed by a truck." These two reasons could lead to a whole set of other stories about the chicken. As I read the lists, I started thinking about what to add to them. I realized making lists would make for a fun family (or drinking) game.

Overall, A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists, was a mishmash of stories, lists, and letters. Although I don't know the intended audience for the book, I think most adults would find at least a few pieces to snicker at.


“A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists is a series of thirty-six stories about the most random subjects. Author Radu Guiasu uses his real-life knowledge and experiences and twists them into satirical situations that will make readers say hmm and contemplate life. Creative, sarcastic (at times), and entertaining, this is the perfect book to chuckle at when you’ve had a long day at work.” —Kathryn Dare, Manhattan Book Review


In A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists, Dr. Radu Guiaşu has compiled a collection of thirty-six stories and lists to lift your spirits and bring some much-needed humor to this otherwise dreary life. Guiaşu covers the ridiculousness of everyday life and offers a satirical look at the drudgery of academia, which he can certainly attest to with four university degrees. He brings humor to life under a communist dictator from his experiences living in Romania. Here, you will find short stories, a fake rejection letter, thoughts that go through your mind in different situations, all-dialogue pieces, lists of reasons, and satirical pieces featuring fake submission guidelines and ads for health care. There’s a little bit of everything here. ||To use the author’s own suggestions for blurbs: “this work is not just perfect but actually substantially improves on perfection” and “to call this book the wittiest ever written would simply not do it justice. It is much wittier than that.” I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I laughed out loud at quite a few of the stories. My absolute favorites are: “Logical Flaws and Other Problems with Jurassic Park,” “Trying to Figure Out Which One of My Neighbors Ratted Me Out During the Pandemic,” “Premium Med-Care Express: Your Health is Our Obsession,” “Things That Go Through Your Mind as You Are Taking Part in the Running of the Bulls Event in Pamplona,” What Having the Elephant in the Room Really Means – Some Implications,” “Explaining the Reasons for the 1-Star (Out of 5-Stars) Rating I Gave a Book on Amazon,” “Submission Guidelines,” and “An Honest Rejection Letter.” I loved how Guiaşu could find humor even growing up under a dictatorship. I really enjoyed his dry humor and would have loved having a university professor like him. If you can’t laugh at yourself and how silly life can really be, it can be easy to get discouraged in this life. Guiaşu helps the reader to gain some of that ability back, by finding humor in all situations and pointing out the absurdity of most things (and people). If you need a good laugh and enjoy humor in general, I highly recommend you pick up this book. You will not be disappointed. It’s “an unparalleled tour de force! This will restore your faith in the power of the written word. It is impossible to find superlatives superlative enough to describe how incredibly great this is.” Seriously.


Talking About Adolescence: Book 2: Supercharge Your Body and Brain Power

Adolescence is a time of significant transitions, affecting one’s emotional, mental, physical, and social well-being. Young people and their parents and caregivers looking for trustworthy advice on what to expect during this critical time can turn to Eichin Chang-Lim’s Talking About Adolescence: Supercharge Your Body and Brain Power. This is the second installment in a book series dedicated to helping teenagers understand and navigate changes during puberty and adolescence. The book is written in an informal and engaging tone, with a clear and logical structure that guides the reader through the various aspects of adolescent development and mental health. It focuses on worthwhile and supportive advice, emphasizing self-awareness, self-control, empowerment, growth, and positive decision-making.

I read the book from my vantage point as a parent of a now-adult child. Looking back to my experiences as a parent, I would have picked up this book and bookmarked some items for my then-teenager to read and ponder. The author writes about psychological and physical changes in a clear and coherent way and incorporates interactive elements, relatable content, practical advice, and thought-provoking questions. Chang-Lim writes in an approachable fashion, modeling inclusivity and respect in sharing about challenging topics. This inclusive and respectful approach ensures that all readers, regardless of their background or experiences, feel valued and respected.

While teenage and young adult readers are the primary audience of the book, it is also a valuable resource for parents, guardians, therapists, educators, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities of adolescence. From brain development to decision-making, from substance abuse prevention to strategies for promoting physical and mental well-being, the book shares practical tips, reflective exercises, and insights that can benefit everyone involved in the journey.

As a reader, I found the book to be not just informative but also entertaining. Chang-Lim incorporates anatomical illustrations and tables to convey her points, making the learning process more engaging. The book's “fun PowerPoint format" is a unique and interesting approach. However, it remains to be seen if the approach is captivating enough to hold the interest of the teenage reader in today’s visually saturated society.

Aside from the visual design and layout, the book is an excellent source of research-based information about navigating the challenges of adolescence. More importantly, it offers practical advice and insights that are relevant and applicable. Chang-Lim incorporates quotes from well-known figures, uses analogies to make complex topics more accessible, and includes personal reflections, real-world examples, and creative analogies. These elements balance the more cerebral discussions of psychological, sociological, and educational theories and scientific research. Talking About Adolescence: Supercharge Your Body and Brain Power offers valuable information to readers of all generations,  combining research with practical advice and emphasizing personal growth and lifelong success.


One Shining Soul

Born amid the Rodney King Riots, Olisa Tillerman grows up to be a figure of peace, comparable (though she will deny it) to Jesus. A Black woman with incredible powers and deep spirituality, she nevertheless lives in a society that either cannot or will not accept her entirely as who she is. Some reject her altogether, calling her a witch. Others try to profit off of her. Still, others claim to embrace her but, in reality, try to reshape her so she fits their own views of the world.

In the midst of all this, Olisa continues to forge her own path, offering healing and a call for peace and love among all humanity.One Shining Soul is two separate things merged into one story. On the one hand, it is a beautiful tale of a somewhat savior, a woman doing her best to heal a world that all too often feels fractured and divided on every level. On the other, it asks a question that ought to be considered more often by the religious: If there is any return of Jesus, will not He (or in this case, She) emerge from the downtrodden of a given civilization rather than the powerful who have remade Him in their own image?

It is in the second question that the book is strongest. Wilson approaches the emergence of a savior in modern society from many different angles, raising possibilities that feel very real and shining a light on the less-than-savory sides of American media, religion, and capitalism. Wilson’s greatest skill is in this “what if” sort of writing, and it was the part of the book which I enjoyed the most.

As for the first question, the story taken solely as a narrative, this is where the book shows its weakness. While I was interested in Olisa and her family, their growth, and their trials, the pacing of the narration was never particularly steady. At times, the slower pace worked, especially during more meditative parts, but chapters that did little more than have minor or one-off characters share stories about Olisa felt overly long and repetitive. The climax at the end, by comparison, felt rushed, and the last two chapters felt more like two epilogues trying to sum everything up.

One Shining Soul has a fascinating premise and truly beautiful moments, but there are too many places where the writing itself falls short for me to give it more than three stars.


Autocracy, Inc.: The Dictators Who Want to Run the World

This is an astonishing book. The author has spent her career studying communism throughout the world. In this book, she exposes the worldwide greed that is funneled to powerful fascist leaders throughout the world. She details how they have created a consortium, not of shared ideals or philosophy, but of avarice and duplicity. Through her writing, the reader gains an understanding of how easily the democratic world bought the idea that the world was moving toward freedom.

Meanwhile, the power grab continued, laundered by craven public relations, which covered evil deeds with expressions of open markets and free trade. Meanwhile, under such cover, factories were purchased by shadow corporations, with monies moving from place to place to be laundered and sheltered. Those in power made despicable alliances to strip wealth from their countries and enrich themselves. It seems that Putin had a long game. For example, when Ukraine moved from corruption towards freedom, Putin lost a chess piece that he badly needed. The author is eminently readable with this fascinating story.


Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret: A Festive Mystery: A Whodunit Full of Twists and Turns, Perfect for Fall 2024, A Clever and Cozy Mystery (The Ernest Cunningham Mysteries, 3)

Ernest has a knack for getting in the middle of murder mysteries, which has somehow become his calling. He was hoping to have a peaceful Christmas with his fiancee, instead, he’s been asked to attend a Christmas show. He quickly learns that peace won’t be easy to find. Ernest quickly finds himself in the middle of another mystery when someone he knows is a suspect in a murder and finding answers will be complicated as all the suspects make a career out of trickery.

This is an ideal mystery set against a backdrop of holiday cheer when Ernest is dragged to a Christmas show only to find himself investigating once again. The mystery has many personal complications for Ernest, adding tension, humor, and obstacles for him as he digs his way through clues and suspects. Part of this is the fact that his fiancee is unaware he is involved in extramarital murder investigations which helps the tone maintain a layer of humor. The mystery comes with many twists and tricks as literal magicians make Ernest’s sleuthing even harder with fun antics. A charming holiday addition, Everyone This Christmas Has A Secret is filled with murder, tricks, wit, and merriment.


Lincoln vs. Davis: The War of the Presidents

The tension was reaching a breaking point as the two leaders embarked on their trips toward their respective inaugurations. Trepidation surrounded Abraham Lincoln’s voyage to Washington, DC, where he was set to assume the presidency of the United States. Meanwhile, Jefferson Davis traveled to Montgomery, Alabama where he would be recognized as the first President of the Confederate States of America. As both men took diverging paths, the United States was divided and grew more so with each passing day in early 1861. Disunion began after the election of Abraham Lincoln and the pervasive Southern fear of Slavery’s abolishment. Jefferson Davis didn’t believe in secession yet believed in state’s rights. Lincoln wanted to preserve the Union yet was initially reluctant to broach the topic of Slavery. As the conflict turned into a bloody war, both men would change viewpoints and tactics. The country would be changed forever.

Lincoln Vs. Davis meticulously scrutinizes the early stages of the war between the states and the complexities of the men leading the opposing sides. Author Nigel Hamilton (“JFK: Reckless Youth”) provides a wealth of crucial detail highlighting the struggles that played out before, during, and after the battle lines had been drawn.


Willie the Worrying Dog

Willie the Worrying Dog is the story of a small dog named Willie who worries a lot – too much! His worries are about everything – the weather, other dogs – anything that could potentially happen to him, but not guaranteed. One day, his owner said they were going to the park, which excited him because he loves to play! On the way, he discovers that they are going to a different and new park that he doesn't know anything about! He starts worrying a lot, thinking of everything that could go wrong; he immediately sees two dogs but doesn't know anything about them yet.

After thinking of many bad things, the dogs introduce themselves and, luckily, are friendly and playful! The three dogs have fun together running and playing until it starts to rain, and Willie assumes the worst and that everything he thought about before will come true. When his friends stay with him through the storm, they teach him not to worry and a (new) way to calm down. When Willie leaves the park, he feels much happier than when he got there because he feels good and made some new friends!

I enjoyed Willie the Worrying Dog because it teaches kids (and me) not to worry as much and not to assume the worst. What the dog friends suggested is something new to me, but I will remember it every time it thunders because it is funny and goofy. Sometimes, I feel like Willie and notice myself worrying about many things, especially situations where I don't know how they'll end. I can relate to him at times and felt good after finishing the book and knowing a new way of calming down for future situations.

I liked how the other dogs ended up being friendly, to help out Willie, instead of mean and scary, which would have confirmed Willie's fears. I enjoy watching characters and people in real life get along and have a good time together! I liked the rhyming text throughout the story because it made it easier to read and understand.

There were no big or complicated words that I struggled with reading or understanding. Readers of all ages, especially those who worry or have anxiety, should read this book because the story is enjoyable and they will learn something from it. Families should have it in their homes and it would be a good addition to schools and public libraries!


Shell Games: A Novel

The newlyweds, former school sweethearts, had reconnected after a fifty-year gap. On their wedding night, she, Kate Sawyer, calls the police, claiming that he, Charlie Mull, confessed to the so-called Tylenol murders – the poisoning of seven people in Chicago in 1982. Charlie denies that he ever made such an absurd confession, and his version of events is supported by evidence placing him in Germany at the time of the murders. Kate then begins to suspect that the love of her life is building a case that her ‘hallucination’ is a sign she is losing her mind. Julie, Kate’s daughter, is caught in the middle. Is her mother really going crazy? Or is much-loved Charlie a conman seeking to assume guardianship of her and her fortune? Suspicion deepens. And spreads. Is Eric, Julie’s husband, also involved in the conspiracy? No matter how innocent they might appear on the surface, an undercurrent of mistrust, unease, and even fear flows beneath every action. Charlie’s motives, however, remain obscure, never explained as fully as they warrant, given their central role in the story. Nonetheless, Shell Games is a clever psychological thriller that will appeal to readers of the genre.


A Circle of Uncommon Witches

The MacKinnon women are cursed. Any man they fancy will automatically be within their thrall, so there's no way of knowing whether love is real. The curse began twelve generations back when Ambrose McDonald, a powerful witch in his own right, fell in love with a MacKinnon. His heartbreak led to the curse at the heart of Paige Crutcher's latest book, A Circle of Uncommon Witches/.

As the thirteenth generation witches, Margot and Doreen MacKinnon, must confront their fate. Margot chooses love, though she knows she cannot trust it, while Doreen decides to end the curse once and for all. To do so, she must defy centuries of MacKinnon rules as well as the explicit orders of her aunt Stella. She fears Stella, certainly, but she fears dying at 30 if she refuses to enthrall a man and marry him.

She sets out to break the curse and encounters Ambrose, tortured and held prisoner for three hundred years. Together they vow to break the curse, but in so doing they risk their lives and immortal souls.

This is the fourth book I've read by Crutcher, and it's just as intriguing as the others. If you're looking for a fun romance/witchy read, this one's for you.


Bloodshot

He woke at the site of some major destruction with no memory of how he got there or who he was. He soon discovered that he had some interesting powers, like the ability to heal from any injury, control over machines, and an unmatched aptitude for firearms and combat. Kalea and her brother, who found him, are the only people he knows. For helping him, now Kalea has a target on her back. Helping Kalea, he learns a few things about himself. He is a tool for Project Rising Spirit and his codename is “Bloodshot.”

Bloodshot is a high-intensity action-packed thrill ride by bestselling author Fred Van Lente. Written as an origin story for the Valiant Comics superhero by the same name, this novel is one full-throttle fight scene after another. Following the main character's self-realization that he cannot be the bully anymore and stands up for the underdog, the reader gets a front-row seat to the backstory of the popular comic book hero. With a fierce plot, and plenty of action, one does not have to be a fan of or have prior knowledge of the comic book to enjoy Bloodshot.


The Midnight Mitzvah

A magical story adapted from a tale in the Talmud describing the charitable work of an ancient Rabbi is here transcribed into a children's story by the talented author Ruth Horowitz. Using forest creatures in this tale, Hanina, the chipmunk gathers nuts and generously shares this food with her playful friends, the grateful mouse and appreciative raccoon. Unfortunately, aged Mathilda Squirrel is too proud to accept a gift offering. Puzzled at how to help her old but very independent and stubborn acquaintance, Hanina struggles to find a solution to help without embarrassing her friend.  She learns that it is considered a mitzvah or good deed to help others and also to be certain not to embarrass anyone.  So amid the dangers of the night, at peril to herself, Hanina drops a basket of nuts at the squirrel’s front door and hides while her friend collects the mysterious windfall. This loving story is framed by embracing mood-filled colors that the illustrator produced with vibrant gouache, crayons, and pencils. The morals in this colorful tale emphasize doing mitzvahs or good deeds, having compassion for others, and presenting charity while staying behind the scenes.


Red Rabbit

Andrew King has the solemn and unenviable task of burying his daughter Olivia. His sorrow becomes anger once Olivia’s beau arrives and blames Olivia’s death on a rumored witch named Sadie Grace. Their shared anger turns toward thoughts of revenge and they send word of a bounty on Sadie’s life. Word spreads like wildfire and brings in more than a few bandits who hope to collect the reward.

Rose Nettles is a recent widow living on her desolate farmland when she encounters the strange quartet. Ned Hemingway and Moses Burke are friends bound together by war, while Tom Goggins is a self-described witch hunter. The young girl traveling with them is named Rabbit and she is the most fascinating of the bunch. Rose decides to join the group as Tom plans to locate Sadie Grace and expel her from the earth. However, Sadie Grace is capable of placing obstacles to deter any and all hunters.

Red Rabbit is a mesmerizing horror novel with elements of mystery and the supernatural which seizes the reader’s attention. Author Alex Grecian (The Saint of Wolves and Butchers) has authored a marvelous book with exquisite characters and a plot brimming with tense moments of terror and drama.


The Hymn to Dionysus

/The Hymn to Dionysus is like no Dionysian myth I have come across before. For a god of wine and madness, a lord of misrule, this seems entirely appropriate.

The book often recalls The Bacchae, Euripides’ play about the coming of Dionysus to Thebes and the death of Pentheus, the proud prince of the city. Pulley’s Dionysus does indeed come to Thebes, and there is a proud prince, but there are far more shades to this story than to The Bacchae, details foreign to Euripides’ tale. Anyone looking for a simple retelling (or, for that matter, for a highly factual account of Ancient Greek life) may be left baffled by this book, but hopefully delightedly so.

I would be remiss not to also mention The Song of Achilles. As another queer novel inspired by Greek myth, many will invite the comparison. While the two share some similarities, Pulley’s novel has an overarching sense of dread which pervades it, and which makes it feel quite different.

I found the book fascinating and mythic, beautiful and deeply touching. It will appeal to many who enjoy reading Greek-inspired literature that approaches the old stories through a new lens.


A Dark and Drowning Tide: A Novel

Nothing has ever come easy for Lorelei, she's fought and clawed her way to get what she wants, making a fearsome reputation for herself, but even that isn't enough. She will always be untrusted, unwanted. This expedition is her last hope of ever having everything she wants. Then her mentor, the expedition leader, is found murdered and Lorelei must find out by who and why before it's too late.

The mystery was the main thing that intrigued me about this book and made me want to read it. Unfortunately, though there certainly is a mystery and the clues are hinted at and dropped throughout, I wouldn't describe this as a mystery novel. There are several plots happening at once, intertwining with each other to make one. The romance is sweet, not too much but clearly there.

Lorelei is a folklorist, so there are short fairy tales scattered throughout, not enough to be distracting but enough to understand how she thinks. Though there are times that things she should know are explained by other characters. All the characters are unique in their own way, though a little flat at times.


The Girls of Skylark Lane

Jac and Aggie are twins, but for the first time, they seem to have very different feelings about things. They are moving with their two dads to Los Angeles from San Francisco. Jac is excited, but Aggie is dreading it. She is afraid Jac will make new friends without her, and she will be all alone. They meet a neighbor girl, Tink, who invites them to join a neighborhood softball team. Aggie is excited to be able to make friends with several girls, and soon both girls are practicing nearly every day with their new friends, except that practice seldom happens due to middle-grade drama. And when one of the twins begins changing, things get really tense.

Robin Benway has written a fun story that addresses a lot of issues middle-grade girls can relate to — moving, being the new kid, trying to fit in, having your body grow up before you’re ready, and so much more. The dialogue is right for the age, the characters are well-rounded and believable, and the problems the girls and their friends face will keep young readers turning the pages all the way to the end.


Candle & Crow: Book Three of the Ink & Sigil series

The job of a sigil agent is not an easy one. Enforcing the contracts and treaties with the gods and monsters is a lot of work. Sigil agent Al MacBharrais would like to retire but cannot train an apprentice to take over his territory until he gets the curses on his head lifted. But while trying to solve the mysteries of these curses, Al is constantly pulled into the drama with his friends. Buck Foi needs help to become a legendary hobgoblin. And Nadia, a battle seer and goth queen, is trying to start her own cult to a god of whiskey and cheese.

Candle & Crow is the third and, sadly, the final novel in Kevin Hearne’s Ink & Sigil series. As an urban fantasy, this novel has everything, greasy bacon bollocks, a wizard van, and even a shoutout to everyone’s favorite Sacramental-area bookstore. But this is so much more. Hearne concludes one series while interweaving events from his Iron Druid series. Reading the other books in both series is not necessary but extremely helpful. With plenty of mythology references from gods of many pantheons, this novel has more laughs than a bunch of hobgoblins drunk on stolen whiskey.


The Christmas Crush: A Novel

I'm all for a sweet, cheesy romance, but The Christmas Crush was so over-the-top that it made me cringe repeatedly. When Lawrence Higgin's cookie shop, Sweet L's, is threatened by a corporate cookie company, he starts to panic. Then he meets the head marketing person for the company, Elena, and from the very beginning, they are attracted to one another. It's easy to guess what happens next as they take their relationship to the next level. Elena hates her job because of her mean boss, and Lawrence wants to find a way to pay his Nana back for her initial investment in his shop.

The story starts going sideways when Elena makes an unintentional error and ruins Lawrence's chance at something. But instead of everyone blaming Elena, they blame Lawrence for getting mad, including his Nana! How annoying! Also, Elena's last name is Voss, and she has this little mantra she repeats to herself, which is so obnoxious: Voss is Boss.

Overall, I felt that Lawrence could have done better because Elena was so spoiled and annoying. This book did not leave me with a sweet taste in my mouth.


Buried Lies: A Novel

Buried Lies is a well-written mystery novel that introduces retired detective and ex-traffic cop Davis Reed. Renting a cabin in Cruso, North Carolina, he ends up getting hired by a wealthy, eccentric couple to investigate a man's death at a golf course. Prentiss Wells, a local attorney, was found struck and killed by a golf ball while on the course with a few of his buddies/co-workers. Reed works with local deputy Dale to dig up clues on the case. This includes interviewing an elderly man with dementia who led an old case in which Prentiss was involved.

I enjoyed the bantering dialogue in the book the most. A lot of it reminded me of my favorite author, Harlan Coben, who was actually mentioned in the book. The guys in the book tease one another and bicker, all in good fun. I loved how the author described each character and developed each one throughout the book. As Reed puts the pieces of the puzzle together, he thinks he has figured out whodunnit but then second guesses himself, and at that point, everyone becomes a suspect. This is a great mystery that Coben, Baldacci, and Patterson fans will enjoy.


Death at a Scottish Christmas (A Scottish Isle Mystery)

Emilia McRoy is an American doctor working on Sea Isle in Scotland. She's planning to take a break over the holiday season. With lots of community events to attend and help coordinate, who could blame her? Plus, it's a great way to get to know more members of the tight-knit community. But things don't go to plan.

Emilia is asked by a friend to help rescue some stranded band members who are expected to perform in a local pub. When the lead singer turns up dead after the concert, she finds herself back at work as the town's coroner and as an amateur sleuth. She's determined to use her medical skills to find out whether foul play was involved. But will she be able to find out what happened before someone else is killed?

Death at a Scottish Christmas is a fast-paced, entertaining cozy mystery. I enjoyed the characters and the setting. The plot had enough twists and turns to keep me turning the pages well into the night. I want to read more by this author, especially something set in the rugged Scottish Highlands.


On a Wing and a Tear

Ray Halfmoon and Mel Roberts have become as close as siblings since Mel and her mom moved into the attic of Ray’s Grampa’s Chicago bungalow. Although Mel and Ray are from different native tribes, they have much in common. They find they have a visitor: Great-Grandfather Bat. He injured his wing and has been resting to heal, but he’s found out the birds and animals are having an epic baseball game. He has to get there as he was the hero the last time they met. Grampa Halfmoon is convinced to take Bat and the kids on a road trip to the game. But soon some nefarious characters are following them, trying to kidnap Great-grandfather Bat.

Cynthia Leitich Smith, a citizen of the Muskogee Nation, imbues her story with traditions and language from several Native Nations. Kids will love how the animal characters interact with the human characters and how their stories are intertwined. Magic and a little fantasy are sprinkled throughout this contemporary story, and young readers will find that fascinating. All the characters are well-rounded and believable and the dialog is realistic for each character. This would make a good classroom read-aloud.


Elemental Forces: Horror Short Stories (The Flame Tree Book of Horror)

Mark Morris, Poppy Z Brite, Andy Davidson

Elemental Forces, edited by Mark Morris, is the newest edition of the critically acclaimed ABC of Horror series. All of the short stories contained therein are new, most of which were commissioned from some of the genre’s most celebrated voices, like Poppy Z. Brite, Gwendolyn Kiste, and Paul Tremblay. When combined with some of the new and intriguing voices in horror featured within its pages, this sizable collection offers readers a heaping helping of both the novel and the familiar, which, in my humble opinion, makes for the very best type of anthology. While the themes and content of each story vary, as the general thread linking each one together seems to be simply ‘modern horror,’ there’s sure to be something enjoyable for everyone. The thing I love about loose themes for these types of anthologies is that since there are twenty short stories total, each one is short enough that if it doesn’t suit your particular horror proclivities, then an entirely different tale is just a few pages away. Perfect for a quick read before bedtime to leave you with pleasantly disturbing dreams.


A Tiny Piece of Blue: A Novel

A Tiny Piece of Blue is a touching snapshot of life in rural Michigan in the Great Depression. After being caught stealing from a school, Silstice Trayson’s reputation is even lower than it was before, when she was just one of the “Trashy Traysons”. However, Edna Goetz, who manages the local 4-H group for girls, still has faith in her and does her best to give Silstice a second chance, even taking her into her home despite her husband’s objections.

The story is one of affection, loyalty, and second chances, and the tale is touching. The attempts to tie in the child trafficking of the Great Depression fell short, however. That particular plotline is vaguely hinted at for most of the book, and when it arrives, it does so in full force, overwhelming the previous sentiment. In addition, the tight focus on Silstice and the Goetz family leaves little room for secondary characters to breathe and grow, so most of them feel like caricatures or shadows. At times, even the Goetzes are trapped by this.

A Tiny Piece of Blue is a perfectly serviceable book for those who want a historical novel with themes of redemption, but it is little more.


Wise Women: Myths and Stories for Midlife and Beyond  by Sharon Blackie and Angharad Wynne is a book to savor. Filled with stories of wise old women, some you know and others who are new or told in a new way, this collection is meant for those in the second half of life. Gone are the days of princes and white horses. Now comes the dark woods and the burning fires of change. These fairy tales are meant to give readers and listeners mature female wisdom to guide them through the thorny paths of changes that surge upon them in midlife and beyond. Gone are the golden-haired princesses and jaunty red hoods, and instead enter the grandmothers, the witches, the wild hags, and the wise women, the old bone mothers, with their wild array of intentions and motivations.

 While this collection lacks Blackie’s previous personal narratives (Hagitude, If Women Rose Rooted), it is a wonderful read for those who enjoy her unique way of turning a phrase or who enjoy the rhythm of a well-executed fairy tale. Blackie and Wynne bring immersive, rich language to these tales, making them utterly unique and sheer pleasure to read.


Because It's Funny!: The Plays of Billy Van Zandt & Jane Milmore

Because It’s Funny is a joyfully candid memoir that perfectly captures the highs and lows of a life spent in comedy. Billy Van Zandt’s career memoir, co-starring his longtime partner-in-laughter Jane Milmore, is not just an account of plays written and staged but a tribute to the gritty, glorious art of making people laugh. Written with the warmth and wit of someone who has seen it all (and taken every fall, breakaway bottle, and pie to the face imaginable), this book is a delightfully unique look at the demanding world of live theater.

Van Zandt’s stories are filled with the slapstick spirit that marks his plays. One particularly memorable account is the “silent movie on stage” production of Silent Laughter, which required nightly pie fights, pratfalls, and absurdly elaborate costumes to recreate the feel of silent film in a live theater setting. He doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges: creating a comedy that requires both the actors and the set itself to be “in on the joke” is no small feat, yet Van Zandt’s fondness for these physically demanding, laugh-a-minute productions shines through every page. His reverence for comedy’s mechanics is palpable, and he makes a convincing case that a well-executed pratfall or perfectly timed line can be as powerful as any dramatic monologue.

The partnership between Van Zandt and Milmore is the heart of this memoir, and his reflections on their creative relationship are both endearing and insightful. Their debut play, Love, Sex, and the I.R.S., born out of pure frustration with Hollywood, set the tone for the rest of their careers. While Van Zandt and Milmore’s writing method was often chaotic—penning their first play between filming scenes on the Star Trek set, with Van Zandt still in his alien makeup—their knack for writing outrageously funny scenarios was undeniable.

The book’s most satisfying parts are Van Zandt’s stories of working with the quirky, loyal cast members who became the Unofficial Van Zandt/Milmore Repertory Company. Through hysterical accounts of accidental on-stage appearances, prop malfunctions, and backstage antics, Van Zandt captures the camaraderie and chaos of live theater. These behind-the-scenes moments make it easy to see why so many actors returned to work with them time and again; he and Milmore were clearly as dedicated to cultivating joy within their cast as they were to delivering laughs to the audience.

Because It’s Funny is an unfiltered, sometimes absurd, and always heartfelt account of what it means to be a comedian. Van Zandt’s reflections are sharp and often self-deprecating, showcasing a man who values the hard work of comedy but also respects its roots in pure, unbridled fun. Fans of stage comedy and aspiring playwrights alike will find inspiration in his relentless dedication to his craft. In the end, Because It’s Funny is more than a memoir; it’s a warm and raucous love letter to comedy itself.


"Mr. Average and the 12th Stone: Watch Your Mandibles is one-of-a-kind. It's a book that stands out so much that there is no other comparable book. It's a brilliant tale with ant characters and a brilliant merging of themes, including love, dystopia, and the mind. Ben Run's book offers a one-of-a-kind escape from reality that you won't want to miss." —Foluso Falaye, Manhattan Book Review


Everything Could Be a Prayer: One Hundred Portraits of Saints and Mystics

Prayer and contemplation offer solace and hope during times of despair. As an everyday practice, prayer can strengthen faith and connect with divinity. Everything Could Be a Prayer by Kreg Yingst is a book of one hundred art prints, meditative short essays, and prayers. Yingst spotlights the stories of saints, mystics, activists, and community builders who devoted their lives to serving others and making a difference. From John the Baptist to Oscar Romero, and from Mother Teresa to Fannie Lou Hamer, Yingst draws inspiration from across time and traditions to share uplifting stories that remind us of the potential for positive change, even in the face of great odds.

Yingst is a renowned American illustrator and block artist whose works are in private collections and museums. In the book’s introduction, he shares how the pandemic, a time of collective suffering and reflection, allowed him the time and attention to devote to the meditative act of offering devotions to faithful and dedicated figures in the Christian church. The project evolved to incorporate human and civil rights icons who risked their lives to speak truth to power and create change.

Everything Could Be a Prayer is a brilliant and uplifting collection of profiles that manifests kindness, generosity, gratitude, and service to others. One can use the book as a meditative reader; each prayer and life story is a compass for virtuous living.


The Startup Squad: You're the Boss: A Kid's Ultimate Guide to Starting Your Own Business

Do you want to start your own business? If so, this book is perfect for you. It gives great advice on how to make money and brainstorm ideas to make your business unique. This book teaches you many things, learning to sell products for a profit, making a catchy sales pitch, and much more! There are lots of things you can do to make money, so read this book and get started on your business idea!

I think the authors did a good job explaining things, and I liked that they explained by making each chapter a new step to starting a business. I also liked how they featured short stories of many different kids and the businesses that they started. I think this book is a good way to teach kids the basics of running and starting their own businesses. I recommend this book to people who want to learn how to build a business and people who want to be successful entrepreneurs.


Bad Jew: A Family's Quest from the Minsk Ghetto to Netanyahu's Israel

As a French journalist with Polish forbears, Piotr Smolar's memoir details his peripatetic career, serving as a reporter for years in Moscow, in Washington, and as the Le Monde senior representative in Jerusalem. Most recently, he writes from Gaza, providing a forceful, emotional new introduction, voicing strong disapproval for Israel's right-wing action.

Hersh Smolar, his grandfather, is a legendary figure, a leading member of the resistance in the Minsk ghetto in World War II. His father's political involvement demonstrated strong opposition to Poland's postwar Communism. Their legacy is a central element in Bad Jew—a bizarre, even displeasing title.

The author writes vividly, in a choppy, journalistic manner appropriate for his rebellion against Israel's politics, taking a deft chronological path through recent decades of Israel's history. He denies his Jewish identity, for justifiably practical and political motives, enabling him to gather information essential for his   assignments. His personal life demonstrates a strong, fundamental, secular Jewish lifestyle.

One of the author’s several books, Bad Jew was published first in French in 2015. The new introduction, with Anthony Roberts' masterly translation, is the first of his books available to English language readers.


Dear Miss Perkins: A Story of Frances Perkinss Efforts to Aid Refugees from Nazi Germany

In 2024, President Biden designated a national monument in honor of Frances Perkins. Who? The first woman to serve as a Cabinet secretary, she led FDR’s Department of Labor and successfully advocated for unemployment insurance, the 40-hour work week, minimum wage, Social Security, and more. At that time, Labor also oversaw the Immigration Bureau (later moved to the Justice Department).

Although choppy, this book takes the history of immigration policy as its larger canvas while highlighting Perkins’ efforts to bring Jews out of Nazi Germany to safety in the U.S. It was an uphill battle: Depression-era people were leery of immigrants who might take scarce jobs or be a burden on taxpayers. There were strong anti-Semitic and anti-immigrant forces as well as national quotas, and it took a great deal of political acumen to arrange safe passage for 600 Jewish children, a handful at a time.
Miss Perkins is a fascinating figure, and the biography provides plenty of historical context for her work and the reactions she received, including hate mail and a serious effort at impeachment. Access to her letters and notes gives us rare glimpses of this national heroine’s inner thoughts.


PictureFace Lizzy

PictureFace Lizzy is the story of a girl named Eve who has almost everything she could want: a happy family, a three-legged lizard, toys, food, etc... but she doesn't have a PictureFace Lizzy! Eve feels this is so unfair, especially because everyone she knows has one, causing her to feel left out anywhere she goes. When she gets one of her own, it's so much fun, but she and her friends slowly start to realize that they can have fun doing things off of screens/PictureFace Lizzy, too, which is something they didn't think possible before. Eve learns to be happy, accept what she has, and not wish for more!

I enjoyed the story because it feels like real life; PictureFace Lizzy is like the newest and best thing: a smartwatch, phone, electronic, etc. All the characters acted like real people would, too. I experienced all the same feelings with the characters and was glad that they stayed/got back to being happy more often than anything! The illustrations were bright and colorful and added to the story. PictureFace Lizzy is a fun read and appropriate for readers of all ages; however, upper-elementary and older readers will be better able to relate.


Rare Flavours

Take one cup of this this, five spoons of that, and a good pinch of whatever else. Then add to the mixture to create a recipe. Likewise, take a documentary movie, a graphic novel and a cookbook and add together to make Rare Flavours. This is quite a book! Ram V. and Filipe Andrade assemble a creative team to publish a delectable selection of Indian food.

The star of the fable, almost better defined as a rampage, is a remarkably large and hungry man called Bakasura, sometimes more respectfully, Mr. Baksh, a fearsome character. The film crew follows him around as he strides across the pages, stopping when he finds a pleasing dish, sharing his choice with the reader. He hands out not only ingredients but detailed instructions on making masala chai, daal fry that is a truck-stop special, slow roasted leg of goat in a spiced yoghurt marinade, and yet more exotic dishes. He dreams of becoming another Bourdain. A clutch of characters seek prominent space for themselves, caught up in the crowded jungle and city landscapes.

Be prepared to digest plentiful clashes, violent colors, and dramatic scenes, all of it weird as heck and a lot of fun!


Murder at National Geographic

The year is 1964, and Xander Riley is an adventurer traveling through Quito, Ecuador, searching for history. He is searching for rare artifacts of the Jivaro Tribe. However, he is unafraid to take a shortcut to acquire exotic treasures. Riley is a freelance writer for National Geographic, and his sojourns often yield eye-catching articles for the renowned periodical. Upon his return, Riley gives a colorful lecture equipped with anecdotes of bombastic adventures and theatrics, which engage the audience but aggravate his editors and bosses. Riley has charisma with the women but may need a heroic dose to charm his editor, Joan Smollett.

Joan Smollett is known for her editorial and fact-checking acumen. She is not known for her tact. She can cut down an employee with a withering critique. When examining Xander Riley’s recent piece on the Jivaro Tribe of Ecuador, she believes Riley fabricated parts of the story and calls him on it. Riley vehemently denies it. The matter is far from closed.

Detective Archimedes Bib is a homicide detective whose latest case involves a puzzling murder at the National Geographic Society. The victim was found in her office and involved in a peculiar matter of death. Bib and his partner begin their investigation by questioning the victim’s husband and co-workers. They learn that the victim was respected yet disliked in equal measure. Bib begins to cogitate a list of suspects that includes co-workers, former classmates, and the deceased’s husband. Bib is an intelligent and dedicated sleuth, but this case may prove problematic.

	“Murder at National Geographic” starts as a bewitching mystery and its appeal never dims as the whodunit reaches its fantastic denouement. Xander Riley is a knave who believes he has everyone fooled, yet hubris ultimately trips him up. The heart and soul of the story is Archimedes Bib. Bib’s profession revolves around obtaining justice no matter who the victim is or how they were perceived. Whereas Xander excelled at meaningless flings, Bib’s life revolved around his late wife. The men are truly a study in contrasts. Bib’s investigation takes the occasional u-turn, but his intellect and insight propel him forward.  Motives of greed, ambition, and revenge will be considered along the way to nabbing his suspect. Author Paul Martin furnishes an appreciation for writing and history and combines it with the shortcomings of men and women in rendering this fine novel.


The Once and Future Idiot

“Adventure awaits! Follow court inquisitor Erlin as he is sent to investigate a murder with the King’s idiot of a son. From silly banter to assassins in wait to sword-action scenes, readers will love this fast-paced fantasy adventure. The Once and Future Idiot is perfect for fans of The Princess Bride and The NeverEnding Story.” —Kathryn Dare, Portland Book Review


Manga Biographies: Charles M. Schulz The Creator of Snoopy and Peanuts

Charles M. Schulz, also known as Sparky, as his family would call him, was the creator of Snoopy and the Peanuts commics. Charles Schulz loved comics and drawing ever since he was a young boy. Encouraged by his mother, Dena, to pursue his love of art and comics, he signed up for a cartooning class. There, he met his close friends—Charlie Brown and Linus, whom Schulz based his famous Peanuts comics on. Schulz was a prolific illustrator, drawing new comic strips every single day until his last publication prior to his death.

This was a very sweet and cutely illustrated brief overview of Charles Schulz’s life that spans his career and personal life. Charles Schulz was a hardworking and humble artist and an attentive and caring father. He was extremely dedicated to his work because he took his first vacation when he was seventy-five years old. I am amazed and in awe at how hardworking Schulz was. His time in the military really taught him so much discipline and hard work. I recommend this manga biography to Peanuts fans and anyone who enjoys a good biography.


Giga Town: The Guide to Manga Iconography

Have you ever wondered what the symbols, like a sweat drip or a snot bubble, mean while reading manga? Look no further than Giga Town: A Guide to Manga Iconography by Fumiyo Kouno. This guide will explain all the icons, symbols, and expressions that are commonly found in manga.

This iconography will introduce you to over a hundred manga symbols. I like reading manga, but I never even realized there were so many of these icons and symbols. Most of the symbols are self-explanatory like the single leaf and wind squiggle signals a wind woosh. I am familiar with the sweat icon and the wind icon because I’ve noticed these in manga that I’ve read.

It was really helpful learning about all these different symbols. I definitely want to go reread some of my favorite manga to see how many of these symbols I can spot. I recommend this picture dictionary of symbols to manga readers.


Freelancers of Neptune (1) (Sol Blazers)

The future of humanity is living amongst the planets of the solar system in impressive habitats and other structures built long ago by a group of people who are no longer on scene. While these impressive structures continue to operate, the rest of humanity is thrust into a perilous existence of freelance jobs to stay afloat and survive in the harsh environment. Saturn no longer has its rings and Earth is a distant memory.

Nathaniel Kade is a captain of one such freelancing ship. He dreams of a quiet job which will pay him enough money to repair his ship, provide some security and perhaps a chance to settle down. But that dream will disappear when he runs into a Vessani S’Kaari, a catgirl, who is one a mission to find long lost technology which could improve the lives of everyone. Hot on their tail are space pirates and a group which wants to keep this technology secret.

A fairly decent hard science fiction space romp. Plenty of action, space clones and large space ships. At times the descriptions of the ships, its technology, and how things operate sometimes district from the action.


The Trade Off: A Novel

The Trade Off is the best book I've read all year. This is saying a lot since I finish about four books per week, and it's November. Author Samantha Green Woodruff once again displays her gift of intertwining actual historical events and people with realistic and relatable fiction elements. Her first book, The Lobotomist's Wife, blew me away, and like it, The Trade Off pulled me in with its amazing, inspiring, strong main character, Bea Abramovitz. This book takes place in the years before the great stock market crash of 1929 and leads up to the crash. Bea, a Russian Jewish woman in her early twenties and the daughter of immigrants aspires to become a stockbroker. She has the brain for it and can make calculations and predictions faster and more accurately than any man she's met. Unfortunately, during that time in history, women could not become stockbrokers. As the crash comes closer, she tries to warn everyone around her of an impending crash, but it seems like no one will believe her.

This book is fantastic from cover to cover. The build-up to the crash will have readers' hearts pumping in anticipation of what will happen to Bea and her family. The Trade Off is a truly magnificent and inspiring work.


Two Little Red Mittens

Kirin Hayashi, Chiaki Okada, Avery Fischer Udagawa

Two red mittens are enjoying their life together on the hands of a young girl during the wintertime. They enjoy helping her build snowmen, play in the snow, and throw snowballs, all the while keeping her hands warm. One day, one of the mittens goes missing. The remaining mitten misses its friend and wonders what happened to the other mitten. The lost mitten goes on an adventure, meeting many different types of animals and families. During the process, it becomes ripped and worn and looks nothing like a mitten anymore. Eventually, it finds its way to a squirrel who turns into a comfy sweater. At the end of the story, the mitten who stayed with the girl sees its friend and realizes it is all right, while a new red mitten has joined him on his quest to keep the girl’s hand warm and comfy.

This poetic book examines changes that can occur to people when they venture out into the world, and for the better, while at the same time helping young readers learn to understand rhyme, as the book is largely made up of rhymes. This is the perfect wintertime read with your child.


Death Stake (Trasker)

In Death Stake, we rejoin Brad Trasker, who has been retired from the intelligence arena for a while. He currently works as head of security for an aerospace facility after an incident last year. When photos of the engine they are designing are leaked online, Brad investigates. What he finds leads him to a start-up in Bangkok, where the programmers have all gone missing and possibly murdered. It will take all of Brad’s skills, and some friends, to find out what really happened. That is, if he can find anyone to trust in the ever-changing world of spy craft.

I am a huge fan of Andrew Mayne, but I will say this, his characters all tend to sound the same. Whether they are magicians turned FBI agents, scientists, spies or underwater investigators, there isn’t a lot of character diversity. If you enjoy spy stories, this is a great book for you. Trasker isn’t my favorite series, I’d have to go with old Theo Cray there, and most of the spy stuff goes over my head. However, it is action-packed and one thing you can count on with Mayne, is that justice will be served.


Lenny Among Ghosts

Frank Maria Reifenberg, Thilo Krapp, Rachel Reynolds

Lenny Among Ghosts is a decently cool book. Imagine being the only human kid in a ghost school: sounds scary, right? But the creepy and weird keep things interesting.

Lenny gets dropped off at this creepy castle school by his totally oblivious parents while they go on some research trip. (Parents, am I right?) From the moment he arrives, everything is cray-cray. There are invisible pirates, floating ghost maidens, and these crazy fog beasts that grab him when he tries to escape. Lenny sure gets into a lot of trouble!

The book is more spooky than silly, which I liked, but I prefer books with more silly. The fact that it's a translated book is interesting; I've never read a translated book before, and now I totally want to read more. I’m not too sure about the ending, it felt like a bit of a letdown, but overall I liked the book.

If you like weird school stories with ghosts, strange creatures, and a main character who's both brave and hilarious, this book is 100% for you! Definitely recommended for kids who love a little mystery and a lot of adventure.


How Do You Become a Mad Scientist?: A Book Full of Science Experiments

What is a mad scientist? How exactly does one become mad at being a scientist? How to Become a Mad Scientist is a fun book to read during Halloween. This book is full of experiments to try so you can feel like a mad scientist! My favorite part of this book is the "How to Make Your Slime" experiment. It also explains why you can make slime with glue and saline combined to make a polymer.

The best part of this book is not only the information but also the illustrations, which help us better understand the materials we need and the steps needed to become mad scientists and complete our own experiments at home.


How Do You Look Like You?: A Book About Genetics

How Do You Look Like You is a book that goes into the many reasons that make up humans and how we have traits based on the genetics we acquire from our families. Did you know that while most of your traits come from your parents, some may also come from grandparents or great-grandparents, depending on which traits are dominant.

This is always a fun series to read. It answers so many questions and is jam-packed with information. This book is good for helping with school projects.

The best part of this book is the information and the pictures that help make up a better understanding of our genetics and what makes us look like ourselves. The illustrations are so colorful and fun. The text is informative yet easy to read. I look forward to more books in this series.


Cookie Time

In Cookie Time, Kat and Ari make cookies with Grandpa but just can’t wait for them to finish baking. So, they build a time machine to jump forward in time to when the cookies are done. Well, that is the plan, but things keep going wrong. They end up in the future after all the cookies are eaten, then jump to the past when they were little children having the perfect day baking with Grandpa. When they try again, they end up in a distant, futuristic time with cookies but without Grandpa. Finally, they return to where they started. While waiting for the cookies to finish, Kat and Ari enjoyed the time outside with Grandpa. Soon, the cookies are done and prove worth the wait.

This book is a wonderfully imaginative romp that may well spur some young imaginations to make their own time machines. It also recognizes the preciousness of quiet moments doing simple things like baking cookies with a grandparent. Indeed, Cookie Time would make a great choice to read while a batch of homemade cookies bake.

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers


Find Me as the Creature I Am: Poems

After reading this book, I’m going to start all my work messages with the following: “I hope this email finds you as the creature you are.”

There is a lot of humanity in these poems. Then again, “humanity” may not be the correct word because there is compassion for all living beings in Emily Jungmin Yoon’s poetry. There is also a tension between collectivism and individuality—freedom and what it means to fight for personal freedoms as part of a connected “community.” By the last page, Yoon’s poetry has made you think, but—more importantly—it has made you feel. Also important: it is easy to read.

Sitting down with this book is like sitting with a new friend, but somehow, it feels like you have shared past lifetimes full of experiences together. It feels like you just met, and you have finally met again after too much time has gone by. Neither of you wants to leave. So, you will stay seated, determined to get to wherever a conversation ends—whatever “elsewhere” that is, as Yoon might describe it. You will finish the book, and it will finish you.


Alfie Explores A to Z: A Seek-and-Find Adventure (A Look-and-Locate Library Adventure)

In Alfie Explores A to Z, an adventurous bookworm named Alfie searches for his pet dust bunny, Betty, through the alphabet. Each letter receives a two-page spread. The first page contains a clever rhyme that lists objects starting with the given letter. The second page offers a conglomeration of objects, including those mentioned in the rhyme. Readers search for Alfie, Betty, and the listed items, along with dozens of unusual objects and caricatures, all starting with the given letter.

 As a seek-and-find adventure, many children will enjoy the challenge of finding Alfie and Betty on each spread and looking for some of the items listed in the rhyme. However, this book is marketed as appropriate for children between the ages of four and eight. The answer key at the back of the book contains over 1000 objects to be found in each spread, many of which young children cannot identify and may find frustrating. For example, the letter A contains an aspen tree and an Abyssinian cat. While this book will provide some amusement and a clever introduction to the alphabet, many children and possibly some adults will struggle to identify a portion of the objects in the pictures correctly.


Full Moon Confessions

"Full Moon Confessions by Tracey Anne is a gorgeously written collection of poetry that is as enticing to the senses as it is a balm to the soul. Full of entrancing imagery of the natural world, Tracey Anne’s prose flows effortlessly across the pages, enveloping the reader’s awareness in the universal ebb and flow of the seasons of life. This lyrically powerful volume of confessions is sure to please lovers of nature in any phase of life." —Beatrice Toothman, Manhattan Book Review


The Slick Strategy a Unique Profitable Options Trading Method

Options trading is high risk, and most options expire worthless. It is more profitable to sell options (and let them expire worthless) than it would be to buy options and hope for a win. This book aims to exploit one such strategy for successful options trading.

The first chapter provides an introduction to options: their characteristics, types, the risks and returns, and variables influencing option price. The book focuses on index options as the strategy described in later chapters is specific to S&P 500 options. The chapter ends with providing a thumbnail sketch of seven popular options trading strategies.

The second chapter reveals the preferred strategy. It is a bull put spread. The chapter starts by rejecting various strategies and introduces a textbook bull put spread. It then offers modifications to the traditional bull put to reduce risk. The chapter ends by providing summary results using the strategy from 2014 to 2023 – ten years of back-testing.

The third chapter outlines the mechanics of executing the trade. This is to ensure that the strategy is implemented as intended. The intent of a two-leg strategy (such as the bull put spread) is that both legs are executing simultaneously. If there is a delay, then it opens up the possibility of market conditions turning against the strategy, hence exposing the position to greater risk. This chapter is not as clear as other parts of the book are. However, there is a link to a You Tube video which focuses on trade execution. The video clarifies ambiguities that may arise from reading this chapter.

The last two chapters focus on making data-driven decisions and trusting the analysis (i.e., not letting emotions influence trade decisions), and validating the back-testing. While the strategy and execution are well outlined, I would like to see greater detail in the actual back-testing: specific returns per week, which weeks were non-trade weeks, were there weeks when the position was closed early (and what specifically were the indicators).

I like that the strategy has been back-tested, and that the suggested modifications have also been back-tested and their results presented. The strategy is indeed simple to follow and implement. I also like that the book encourages readers to do their own back-testing, and provides suggestions to migrate from paper trading to actual trading, and ramping up gradually. Beyond S&P 500, can the strategy be applied to other stocks? This question is not adequately addressed. Considerations to go from weekly trading to daily trading are also not entertained.

Overall, it is an excellent book for beginners to get started in options trading.


The Fall

"The Fall by Brian Penn explores themes of identity, freedom, and resilience, set against a vividly depicted dystopian backdrop. With intricate character development and an immersive storyline, it draws readers into a wild journey filled with suspense and revelation. Penn's masterful storytelling and rich prose make this a compelling read for fans of complex, layered fiction.” —Kyle Eaton, Los Angeles Book Review