Author: Sandra Cruz

Blogger, book reviewer, artist, poet, avid reader and nature/animal lover.

Commoner’s ‘Change of Heart’: A Raw and Reflective Breakthrough

Commoner’s new EP is available now. Photo: Yeshua Flores, used with permission.

Commoner Announces New EP Change of Heart via New Morality Zine

Tucson-based alternative rock band Commoner has announced the release of their new EP, Change of Heart, out now via New Morality Zine. The title track “Change of Heart” delivers a hard-hitting, emotionally raw experience, digging deep into themes of fractured relationships and shifting personal dynamics. The accompanying music video reflects this narrative visually, using fragmented edits of the band’s performance to emphasize the feeling of instability and change. (Big Picture Media, 2025)

A Dynamic, Emotional Sound

Change of Heart blends elements of emo, alternative, and post-hardcore, showcasing Commoner’s ability to strike a balance between cathartic intensity and stripped-back vulnerability. The band’s sound is raw, dynamic, and highly personal—each track moving seamlessly between heavy, driving moments and quiet emotional reflections.

“The process of recording this EP was truly healing for me,” says lead singer Romin Mattison. “We had been sitting on these songs for a while and getting a little stir crazy with listening to them over and over again. It was really awesome to hear the final product and be able to listen back to the memories in real time.”

Produced in collaboration with Zach Tuch (Touche Amore, Knocked Loose, Zulu), the EP leans into what makes Commoner’s sound so compelling: emotive vocals, tight instrumentation, and a gritty, aggressive edge that commands attention. The release features five tracks, each delivering a distinct emotional and sonic punch.

Meet the Band

Commoner is made up of:

  • Romin Mattison – Vocals
  • Matthew Bryant – Bass
  • Jeremy Buck – Guitar
  • Beto Marroquin – Guitar
  • Tyler Casillo – Drums

Together, they create music that invites listeners to lose themselves in the noise, drawing inspiration from early 2000s and 2010s influences like Citizen, Movements, Incubus, and Fuel. Their high-energy performances bring their emotional songwriting to life on stage, leaving a lasting impact on their growing fanbase.

About Commoner

Formed in Tucson, Arizona, Commoner blends emo, alternative, and post-hardcore into a style that feels raw and cathartic. What started as a solo project by Romin Mattison with the track Japanese Apartments eventually evolved into a full band when Matthew Bryant joined on bass. The lineup was completed with the addition of Jeremy Buck, Beto Marroquin, and Tyler Casillo, solidifying the band’s identity and collaborative sound.

In 2023 and 2024, the band released two singles as part of their Winter Promo series—“Misery Mistaken” and “Whatever’s Left is Yours”—exploring themes of abandonment, neglect, and healing. These tracks laid the groundwork for Change of Heart, both in tone and depth.

With plans to tour and keep evolving their sound, Commoner is just getting started—and Change of Heart marks a powerful new chapter in their journey.

Change of Heart tracklist:

1.Test Your Luck

2.Change of Heart

3.Parting Gift B-Sides (Vinyl Only)

4.Misery Mistaken

5.Whatever’s Left Is Yours

A Mermaid Tale for the Whole Family: Don’t Miss This San Antonio Spectacle

The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio presents The Little Mermaid, diving into the Majestic Theatre May 16 and 17. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Dive Into Magic: The Little Mermaid Comes to Life in San Antonio

The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio invites audiences to journey under the sea with a dazzling, reimagined production of The Little Mermaid. On May 16 and 17, nearly 200 of San Antonio’s most talented young performers will transform the historic Majestic Theatre into Ariel’s underwater kingdom. This 90-minute spectacle promises a visual and emotional feast, blending stunning sets, acrobatics, and professional-level talent to enchant audiences of all ages. (The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2025)

Inspired by the beloved Disney adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless tale, this dynamic production brings together the best of classical and contemporary performance. Whether you’re a fan of ballet, Broadway, or bold visual storytelling, The Little Mermaid is not to be missed.

🎟️ Get Your Tickets Now

A Professional Experience for Young Performers

CBSA continues its nationally recognized mission to offer young artists a professional stage experience. This production features choreography by a powerhouse team:

  • Jennifer Hart (Ballet Austin)
  • Isabella Grosso, known for her work in music videos
  • Nurlan Kinerbayev, a visiting master from Kazakhstan and principal artist at the Dance Center of San Antonio

Kinerbayev will perform during the Friday night and Saturday matinee shows, joined by Aliaksandra Krukava, an internationally acclaimed artist formerly with the Russian National Ballet. For the Saturday evening show, Sophia Leune, a rising star from NEISD’s School of the Arts, will grace the stage.

Immersive Theater Like You’ve Never Seen

Prepare to be swept away—literally! With high-tech digital effects, a real pool onstage, and aerial acrobats flying through ocean-inspired scenes, the production immerses guests “under the sea.” The audience is encouraged to sing along with live renditions of hit songs from the animated classic.

This is not just a ballet—it’s a multi-genre extravaganza blending dance, music, and acrobatics to entertain the whole family.

A Perfect Family Outing

Looking for a belated Mother’s Day celebration or a special treat for a graduating theatre-lover? An afternoon or evening at The Little Mermaid is a magical way to make memories.

Before the show, visit the pre-show market in the Majestic Theatre’s lobby. Arrive early for:

  • Mermaid-themed merchandise
  • Face painting
  • Photo ops with the cast

Fans are encouraged to come in costume—mermaid tails, princess gowns, and sea-worthy outfits welcome!

A Show with a Mission

More than just a performance, The Little Mermaid supports the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio’s broader mission to make the arts accessible. Thanks to CBSA and the affiliated Dance Center of San Antonio:

  • Nearly 2,500 dancers have received life-changing training and opportunities
  • More than 35,000 Title I schoolchildren have attended performances
  • Over 2,000 underserved youth have been reached through outreach
  • $100,000+ in scholarships have supported students with financial or special needs

When you buy a ticket, you’re supporting the next generation of artists.

Showtimes & Location

📍 The Majestic Theatre
224 E. Houston Street
San Antonio, TX 78205

🗓️ Showtimes:

  • Friday, May 16 at 7p.m.
  • Saturday, May 17 at 2p.m. & 7p.m.
    Pre-show market and photo opportunities begin one hour before curtain.

About the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio

The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) is an award-winning, nonprofit organization offering young dancers a professional platform to shine. Through auditions and invitations, performers receive elite training and the chance to appear in full-scale productions that rival those of adult companies.

CBSA is also home to the Dance Center of San Antonio, which provides top-tier training to performers of all ages and abilities, embracing the motto: “The arts are for everyone.”

Whether you’re reliving a favorite fairy tale or witnessing it for the first time, The Little Mermaid is a magical experience you won’t forget. Dive in—the ocean awaits.

Gothic Noir in Wartime France: Franck Bouysse’s ‘Clay’

‘Clay’ is Franck Bouysse’s new novel. Photo: Other Press

New Release: Clay by Franck Bouysse

A Dark, Lyrical Tale of War, Vengeance, and Buried Passions

Critically acclaimed French author Franck Bouysse, a master of gothic noir, returns this month with his latest novel, “Clay: A Novel”—a powerful, Faulknerian story of love, masculinity, and vengeance set against the backdrop of World War I. It is available for pre-order. (Other Press, 2025)
Release Date: May 20, 2025

A Story Set in Shadows and Heat

In the summer of 1914, in the rugged heart of Cantal, France, the able-bodied men of a rural mountain community march off to war. Left behind are the women, the elderly, and the young—those who must now bear the weight of survival.

Fifteen-year-old Joseph is one of them. With his father gone, he’s left to run the family farm alongside his mother, grandmother, and their aging neighbor Leonard. Across the property line lives Valette, a bitter man excused from the war due to a malformed hand. When his brother’s wife and daughter seek refuge with him, their arrival ignites long-simmering resentments and awakens passions that had long been buried.

Gothic Noir Meets Historical Fiction

Clay is a haunting, propulsive novel that blurs the line between historical fiction and literary noir. With richly textured prose and emotionally raw characters, Bouysse crafts a deeply affecting narrative of isolation, violence, and human resilience. The novel explores themes of abuse, family bonds, suppressed desire, and the way trauma seeps through generations.

This is essential reading for fans of Bouysse’s previous work and readers who love dark, atmospheric fiction in the tradition of Tana French or William Faulkner.

About the Author

Franck Bouysse was born in France in 1965. Before becoming a full-time writer in 2007, he worked as a biology teacher. His breakout novel, “Born of No Woman,” won multiple prestigious French literary awards, including the Elle Readers’ Grand Prize, the Booksellers’ Prize, and the Prix Babelio. His follow-up, “Wind Drinkers,” received the Prix Jean Giono and further cemented his reputation as a leading voice in contemporary French literature.

About the Translator

Lara Vergnaud is a celebrated translator of French literature, known for her work across fiction, nonfiction, and scholarly texts. She has received two PEN/Heim Translation Fund Grants and a French Voices Grand Prize, and has been nominated for the National Translation Award. Her recent translations include “The Most Secret Memory of Men” by Mohamed Mbougar Sarr and “Demoiselles of Numidia” by Mohamed Leftah. She currently lives in France.

Advance Praise for Franck Bouysse (Clay):

“Franck Bouysse builds novels like an architect, writes prose like a painter, and with Clay captures both the beauty and bleakness of nature, the horrors of conflict and matters of the human heart with a poet’s precision. This is a masterwork of historical fiction—born of the Cantal region’s people as much as its mountains, rivers, and soil—that renders with staggering authenticity the volatile dramas created in the voids of the Great War. A translation to be cherished, Clay is an unforgettable story…superb, sublime, and heartbreaking.”
—Peter Farris, award-winning author of The Devil Himself

‘Ingress’: A Grief-Stricken Journey Through the Multiverse

Ingress is available on digital and on demand. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

New Movie: Ingress – Beyond Grief, Beyond Time, Beyond Reality.

Directed by Rachel Noll James

Starring: Rachel Noll James, Christopher Clark, Tim Dekay, and Johnny Ferro

Ingress is available to rent/buy at Amazon Prime Video and Fandango at Home.

The Story

A woman with the ability to travel between parallel realities is devastated when she loses her husband in a tragic accident. Overcome with grief, she journeys through the multiverse in search of a reality where he’s still alive. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

Movie Review: Ingress – A Haunting Journey Through the Multiverse

Ingress is a gripping sci-fi drama that combines emotional depth with mind-bending concepts. At its core is Riley (played masterfully by Rachel Noll James), a woman shattered by the sudden loss of her husband in a tragic accident. But Riley isn’t like most people—she has the rare ability to travel between parallel realities. Fueled by grief and desperation, she begins a journey across the multiverse in search of a world where her husband still lives.

Director Rachel Noll James crafts a visually stunning and emotionally charged narrative that explores not only the scientific “what-ifs” of alternate realities but also the human heart’s unwillingness to let go. Every effort at a reunion gives her glimpses of hope, heartbreak, and hard truths, challenging her understanding of love, fate, and identity. Along the way she meets Daniel Cassanders, an author who tries to help her with his specialized skillset.

The production value is good and the cinematography is striking. Rachel Noll James skillfully brings Riley’s struggles to life and given Daniel’s complicated role in her life, Christopher Clark handles his role well.

Ingress skillfully combines intimate storytelling with grand speculative ideas. It’s not just about science fiction—it’s about the emotional consequences of clinging to the past and the cost of rewriting fate.

With a haunting score and a poignant conclusion, Ingress will linger long after the credits roll. It’s a must-watch for fans of cerebral, emotionally driven science fiction.

Have you seen Ingress? Share your thoughts.

Ingress movie still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

*The author was contacted for an honest review and received a link to this movie. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Cults, Curses, and Creatures: ‘First Moon’ Revives Werewolf Horror

‘First Moon’ stars Lauren Esposito, Julian Curtis, and Shannon Ryan. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Why Werewolf Movies Still Howl at the Moon

Werewolf movies have captivated audiences for decades with their potent blend of horror, folklore, and human emotion. From classics like The Wolf Man (1941) to modern cult favorites like Ginger Snaps and An American Werewolf in London, these films explore themes of transformation, inner conflict, and the beast within.

What makes werewolf stories so enduring? The genre taps into our primal fears and fascination with the supernatural. The werewolf is often both victim and monster—a symbol of identity struggles, rage, and loss of control. This duality, paired with suspenseful storytelling and visceral special effects, keeps the genre fresh and alive in horror cinema.

New Release: First Moon: Fear The Monster Within

A new chapter in werewolf horror has arrived—First Moon is now available to rent/buy on Amazon Prime Video. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

Starring The Conjuring 2‘s Lauren Esposito and featuring creature design by Emmy Award-winning SFX artist Thomas E. Surprenant (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Halloween H20, The Grinch), First Moon offers a chilling, cult-inspired twist on werewolf lore.

Written & Directed by: Peter McLeod
Starring: Lauren Esposito, Julian Curtis, Shannon Ryan

Plot:
A young waitress is abducted by a religious cult determined to “cure” her of a werewolf virus—by any means necessary. With her first full moon fast approaching, she must escape before it’s too late.

First Moon still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

From Mimosas to Music: Unique Ways to Honor Mom This Mother’s Day

La Panadería is offering Ferrero Rocher conchas and 100 free mimosas. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Celebrate Mother’s Day in San Antonio and Beyond: Unique Experiences and Heartfelt Gifts

With Mother’s Day approaching on Sunday, May 11, it’s the perfect time to plan something memorable for the amazing moms in your life. Whether you’re in San Antonio or looking for a feel-good experience elsewhere, here are some standout offerings—from delicious brunches and spa packages to creative cocktails and musical events that give back.

🌸 San Antonio Mother’s Day Specials

La Panadería

Ferrero Rocher Conchas & 100 Free Mimosas
Celebrate Mom with complimentary mimosas for the first 100 mothers dining in at any of La Panadería’s four locations on May 11. Starting Saturday, May 10, enjoy two new drinks: an Iced Lavender Latte with cold foam and a Strawberry Mimosa. Don’t miss their Ferrero Rocher Concha—a red and brown concha shell filled with Nutella and Hazelnut Praline Cream, available all May.

The Spa Plaza San Antonio

“What To Get Mom” Spa Package
Gift Mom relaxation with a spa package that includes two luxurious services valued at $350, a complimentary glass of prosecco, and a fresh bouquet.
📞 Call 210-353-8016 or book online to reserve.

Corinne San Antonio

Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet
Treat your mom to an elegant brunch on May 11 from 10a.m. to 3p.m. in Corinne’s private dining space or pavilion.

  • Adults: $65
  • Children (10 & under): $17
    🍽️ Reservations recommended via OpenTable.

Bakery Lorraine

Mother’s Day Pastry Packages
Choose from two delicious options:

  • Le Brunch de Maman ($145): Includes quiche Lorraine, salad, potatoes, and a dozen macarons (serves 6). Add a bottle of bubbly for $30.
  • Maman Chérie Box ($28): Features chai shortbread cookies, heart-shaped pop-tarts, and seasonal pastries.

Enjoy dine-in specials like the Croque Madame and chocolate chip pancakes all weekend.
📦 Pre-orders available online for pickup on May 10 or 11.

Dean’s Steak & Seafood

Truffles & Bubbles for Mom
Join Dean’s for brunch on May 11, served from 7a.m. to 3p.m.. From 10a.m. to 3p.m., visit the Petalé Haus Floral Design pop-up for ready-made bouquets or build-your-own blooms.
🍫 Add a box of signature truffles and a half-bottle of sparkling wine for $65.
Reserve on OpenTable.

Tenfold Rooftop

Customized Cocktails with Mom
From 1p.m. to 4p.m. on May 11, enjoy skyline views while La Pulga Tequila hosts a drink-printing experience. Personalize the signature Paper Heart cocktail with a photo or message printed on top.
🍸 Reservations highly encouraged via OpenTable.

Hotel Contessa

Rooftop Painting with Jean Marston
Unwind on May 11 from 4p.m. to 5p.m. with a guided painting session by local artist Jean Marston at the Rooftop Pool. Enjoy light bites, wine, and skyline views. Spa services are also available post-session.
🎨 RSVP required by calling 210-298-8038.
💰 $85 per person.

🎶 A Mother’s Day That Gives Back: Rock And Roll Playhouse Concerts

Looking for a feel-good gift that supports a great cause? The Rock and Roll Playhouse is hosting family-friendly concerts nationwide on May 11, with $1 from each ticket donated to Can’d Aid, a nonprofit supporting kids in the arts. Capitol Theatre Center will match donations to Can’d Aid for tickets purchased for Mother’s Day weekend for all Rock And Roll Playhouse locations across the country. 

Featured Concerts:

Treat Mom to Rock and Roll Playhouse this May 11. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

About Can’d Aid

Can’d Aid is a national nonprofit dedicated to creating healthier, more creative communities. Since 2013, they’ve donated over:

  • 12,800 bikes
  • 8,900 skateboards
  • 4,100+ musical instruments

They partner with artists like Tyler Childers, Steep Canyon Rangers, and more to host workshops and live performances for underserved youth.

About The Rock and Roll Playhouse

Founded in 2014 at Brooklyn Bowl, The Rock and Roll Playhouse introduces kids to classic rock in family-friendly concerts across the U.S. With over 42 venues in 30 cities, they bring the music of iconic bands to life—creating unforgettable, creative moments for the next generation.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, make this Mother’s Day one filled with love, laughter, and a touch of magic. 💐

Hard Work, Humility, and the Human Spirit: A Powerful Read from Elyezer Shkedy

‘Who the F*ck is Michael?!’ is the debut bestselling book by General (Ret.) Elyezer Shkedy. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book Review: “Who the F*ck is Michael?!” by Elyezer Shkedy
Leadership, Humility, and the Power of Personal Responsibility

If you’re looking for a book that packs a punch in both inspiration and life wisdom, “Who the F*ck is Michael?!: An Israeli Air Force Chief’s Uncompromising Code for Achieving Greatness” by Elyezer Shkedy deserves a spot on your reading list.

The Premise

In this thought-provoking collection, Shkedy—former Commander of the Israeli Air Force—distills over 100 life stories into concise lessons on leadership, success, integrity, and personal responsibility. The stories are short, engaging, and packed with real-world relevance. Each one describes a real event in his life as he remembers it and are not presented in a linear format.

The provocative title comes from a story about humility and hidden greatness. Michael was the principal at their son Omer’s school and one day he told them that Omer would never learn to read or write. The phrase became their family’s defiant battle cry whenever someone would tell them they couldn’t do something they were determined to do. It sets the tone for what’s to come: a reminder that extraordinary people often live quietly among us.

Life Lessons

This collection of stories contain life lessons filled with emotional intelligence. Shkedy doesn’t lecture—he shares. His anecdotes range from military missions to personal reflections, each offering a glimpse into the kind of leadership that values character over charisma and action over words. He manages to do all this without sounding condescending and by using straightforward language. Most of the stories end with a section on the specific lesson he learned.

Some of these stories include:

  • Superhighway to Change
  • The Real Estate Shark
  • You Have No Approval
  • The Ego Beneath the Surface

Highlights

21 – They Are Just Like You – He grew up in an institution for children at risk because his father ran the place and the family lived on the premises. He was taught at an early age that we’re all basically the same, this is one of the lessons that he took to heart during his lifetime. Part of his gold rule for living is to treat others like you would like to be treated.

129 – You Wouldn’t Want to Live In The Past – “When you have completed a significant chapter of your career, let it go.” Be proud about what you did, but move on.

Whether you’re in business, education, healthcare, or just navigating life, this book will challenge you to think deeply about what it means to lead, serve, and strive for excellence.

Final Thoughts

Overall, “Who the F*ck is Michael?!” is more than a leadership book—it’s a mirror for anyone who wants to live with purpose and accountability. It is recommended for readers who appreciate sensible personal advice and also enjoy books on business leadership and personal success.

“A person may appear pitiful and pathetic at first glance; their accent and vocabulary may not be impressive; their attire may not be striking — but that tells you nothing about their ability, their wit, their intelligence or their potential.”

Rating: 4 out of 5.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book and received a copy. The view and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Related post: Leadership Lessons from a Military Commander: What Elyezer Shkedy’s Book Teaches Us About Success

‘Alone in a World of Wounds’: Steve Von Till’s Meditative Ode to Nature and Loss

Steve Von Till releases new single/video from Alone in a World of Wounds. Photo: Bobby Cochran, used with permission.

Steve Von Till’s Alone in a World of Wounds: A Haunting Tapestry of Loss, Nature, and Reflection

Ploughing a different furrow from his work with post-metal pioneers Neurosis, Steve Von Till’s latest solo album, Alone in a World of Wounds, is a sweeping, gothic-tinged collection of Americana infused with ambient textures and world-weary vocal melodies. It’s a deeply introspective journey—both sonically and thematically. It will be released on May 16 via Neurot Recordings. (another/side, 2025)

A Cinematic Opening

The album opens with “The Corpse Road,” a track that unfolds in a haze of mauve-toned drone textures, immediately immersing listeners in a creaking, dust-laden wilderness. Von Till sings of being placed in the “solitude of our inner spaces,” his voice framed by the mournful resonance of French horn and beautifully subtle cello arrangements by Brent Arnold. The track is accompanied by a haunting visual, directed by Josh Graham.

Rooted in Atmosphere and Intuition

Initially inspired by the harmonic resonance of piano and synths, Alone in a World of Wounds follows the reflective ambience of 2021’s No Wilderness Deep Enough. This new album sees Von Till opening up his voice like never before, with songs that emerged from intuitive improvisations—raw, emotional, and unguarded.

Music, Poetry, and Purpose

Outside of music, Von Till is also a published poet. His 2021 collection, “Harvestman,” draws from a deep well of personal and philosophical writing. His lyrics and prose often reflect on humanity’s place in the cosmos, touching on themes of longing, loss, and the vastness of existence. In this album, a profound connection to—and disconnection from—nature serves as the thematic core.

The title Alone in a World of Wounds is inspired by a quote from environmental philosopher Aldo Leopold’s 1949 book A Sand County Almanac:

“One of the penalties of an ecological education is that one lives alone in a world of wounds.”

Life Beyond the Music

Von Till’s commitment to the natural world goes beyond his art. He has been an elementary school teacher for over two decades and serves on the board of directors for the Firekeeper Alliance, a non-profit dedicated to reducing youth suicides among the Blackfeet Nation in Montana.

A Sonic and Visual Aesthetic

While Alone in a World of Wounds may seem far removed from the aggressive tones of Neurosis, the raw spirit of punk and DIY ethos remain essential to Von Till’s process. His search for deeper connection, his willingness to live with sorrow, and his instinctive approach to creativity all ground this project in authenticity.

Recorded largely at his barn studio in Idaho and mixed by Randall Dunn at Circular Ruin in Brooklyn, the album also features artwork by Spokane-based alternative process photographer Brian Deemy. Working in colloidal wet plate tintype, Deemy’s visuals perfectly complement Von Till’s ancient-yet-modern aesthetic—a haunting tribute to our bond with the more-than-human world.

Steve Von Till Live Dates:

May 30 – June 1: Prepare the Ground Festival – Toronto, CAN
July 25 – 27: Fire in the Mountains Festival – Blackfeet Nation, MT

Alone in a World of Wounds tracklist:
1 – The Corpse Road
2 – Watch Them Fade
3 – Horizons Undone
4 – Distance
5 – Calling Down the Darkness
6 – The Dawning of the Day (Insomnia)
7 – Old Bent Pine
8 – River of No Return

1747390942

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

Alone in a World of Wounds release date

Make It Memorable: Top San Antonio Spots Offering Mother’s Day Delights

The Secret Garden Room at High Praise Rooftop Bar at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk. Photo: InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, used with permission.

Celebrate Mother’s Day in San Antonio: Special Events and Experiences to Make Her Feel Loved

Mother’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a heartfelt celebration of the women who nurture, guide, and inspire us. Observed in many parts of the world, this special day is dedicated to honoring mothers and maternal figures for their enduring love and countless sacrifices. Whether through a handwritten note, a bouquet of flowers, a shared meal, or a quiet moment of connection, people celebrate in many meaningful ways.

This year, several of San Antonio’s finest hotels and resorts are offering curated experiences and special events designed to make Mother’s Day truly unforgettable. Here’s a round up of where to take Mom for a memorable celebration:

Omni La Mansión del Rio: Southern Brunch & a Craft Cocktail Toast

Dates: May 9–11, 2025
Location: Four Brothers Restaurant

Four Brothers, Omni La Mansión del Rio’s Southern-inspired eatery, will be hosting a limited-time Mother’s Day Brunch and serving a specialty cocktail called the ‘I Raised You.’

Menu Highlights:

  • Brisket Pastrami Hash ($29) – Smoked brisket pastrami, sunny side-up eggs, caramelized onions, and roasted root vegetables.
  • ‘I Raised You’ Cocktail – Empress Gin, lemon, and Campo Viejo Brut Cava for a bubbly, refreshing twist.

Mokara Hotel & Spa: Pampering Packages and Elevated Dining

Spa Specials Available Starting May 1, 2025

Treat Mom to relaxation at Mokara’s luxury spa with exclusive Mother’s Day offerings:

Spa Packages:

  • Mommy and Me Package
  • Mom’s Golden Glow Facial
  • Nurture and Nourish
  • Mimosas with Mom
  • Soothe Your Soul, Mama

After her spa escape, the celebration can continue at Ostra, Mokara’s signature restaurant.

Menu Highlights (Available May 9–11, 2025):

  • Shrimp and Lobster Enchiladas ($32) – Corn tortillas, lobster salsa roja, chihuahua cheese, poblano crema, queso fresco, and pickled onions.
  • ‘Mother’s Sparkler’ Cocktail – Hendricks cucumber gin, lemon, strawberry, rosemary, and Chandon rosé.

InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk: Jazz, Jewelry & Rooftop Views

Date: Sunday, May 11, 2025
Location: Cavalier & High Praise Rooftop Bar

Celebrate Mom with a jazzy brunch and vibrant rooftop experience at the InterContinental.

Brunch at Cavalier:

  • Classic brunch dishes with live music from The Dirty River Jazz Band.
  • A Kendra Scott pop-up just outside the restaurant—perfect for last-minute gift shopping.

After Brunch:

  • Head up to High Praise rooftop bar to enjoy The Secret Garden Room—a lush, seasonal pop-up bar with over 10 custom cocktails inspired by spring and nature.
  • Take in the views and snap the perfect Mother’s Day photo with the San Antonio skyline as a backdrop.

La Cantera Resort & Spa: Brunch, Fine Dining & Relaxation

SweetFire Kitchen: Family-Friendly Comfort Food

Brunch Date & Time: May 11, 2025, 10a.m. – 3p.m.
Price: $85 Adults | $35 Children (ages 6–12)

Southern-style comfort food, wood-fired pizzas, and decadent desserts await in this casual, open-air kitchen setting.

Signature Restaurant: Elegant Dining with a Michelin Touch

Brunch: May 11, 2025, 10a.m. – 2p.m. | $75 Adults | $45 Children
Dinner: May 11, 2025, 5:30 p.m. – 9p.m. | $135 per person
Children’s Tasting Menu: $65

Curated by Michelin-recommended Chef John Carpenter, Signature’s special prix-fixe menus elevate classic dishes with seasonal flair.

Highlights:

  • Berries & Cream
  • Pork Belly Benedict
  • Steak & Eggs
  • Pecan Bars
  • Eight-course dinner tasting menu for a refined evening celebration

Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa: The Gift of Relaxation

Special Offers: Now through May 12
Gift Card Promotion: Available until May 8

Start Mother’s Day early at Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa, where wellness meets indulgence. Give Mom the gift of self-care with one of their rejuvenating packages:

  • The Essential Duo
  • The Glass Skin Glow
  • Or let her choose with a flexible Hiatus Gift Card

Each option is designed to help her relax, recharge, and feel her absolute best on her special day.

Chef Jason Dady Restaurants: Elegant Dining for the Whole Family

Date: Sunday, May 11, 2025

Celebrate with a delicious prix fixe brunch or dinner at some of San Antonio’s most beloved restaurants:

  • Range
  • Jardín
  • Tre Trattoria
  • Roca & Martillo

Each location will also offer kid-friendly menus for guests 10 and under, making it easy to gather the whole family.

Dinner Service at Tre Trattoria:
Regular dinner service from 4p.m–9p.m.

Optional Wine Pairings:
Available at Range, Jardín, and Tre Trattoria for $29.95 per person (tax and gratuity not included).

Reservations:

Note: Tre Pizzeria and Two Bros BBQ will remain open for regular service on Mother’s Day.

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk: A Luxe Mother’s Day Escape

For those looking to make Mother’s Day a full-on experience, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk offers a perfect blend of indulgence, style, and serenity.

Brunch at Landrace: A Feast for the Senses

Treat Mom to a decadent prix-fixe brunch at Landrace, the hotel’s riverside restaurant known for its thoughtful flavors and elegant setting.

Relax & Unwind: Rooftop Luxury and Spa Bliss

After brunch, keep the celebration going:

  • Lounge poolside in a rooftop cabana with panoramic views of the San Antonio skyline.
  • Visit Thompson Spa for signature treatments designed to restore, relax, and elevate her day.

Whether she wants a culinary escape or a peaceful retreat, Thompson San Antonio offers a refined way to celebrate the mothers and mother figures in your life.

Plan Ahead

Mother’s Day is a time to show love and appreciation. Be sure to reserve early—these experiences are limited and sure to fill quickly!

Sci-Fi with Soul: Why ‘Echoes From A Distant Star’ Deserves a Spot on Your Shelf

‘Echoes From A Distant Star’ by John McCool. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book Review: “Echoes From A Distant Star: Ranger Book One”
A Chilling Sci-Fi Mystery Where Silence Speaks Louder Than Words

The Premise

In the depths of space, a long-abandoned vessel conceals the whispers of something tragic.

Locilette, a Ranger patrolling this sector of space, responds to an anonymous call of a potential derelict spotted drifting in the endless void. Thinking this is nothing more than another routine call would end up being one of the greatest mistakes of his career.

What horrors befell the Yanagi’s crew? Were they driven to madness, or did an unknown terror stalk the now dark corridors? Will the Ranger uncover the truth behind the crew’s disappearance, or will he succumb to the same horrors that claimed them? The darkness of the Yanagi awaits… (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

Suspense in the Silence

“Echoes From A Distant Star” launches readers into a hauntingly atmospheric space saga that’s as much about mystery and memory as it is about exploration. Set aboard the Theseus, a ship in the far reaches of space, Locilette, a Ranger of the Fifth Degree from the Kronos System has just crossed a large wormhole gate. Part of his job includes responding to missing ships, checking on the status of a communications buoy, or even pursuing a smuggler. Most of this is done in the vast darkness of space but he loves his job because of the adrenaline rush.

After hailing the Yanagi and with no response besides a bright flash of light inside he activates the ship’s Secura-Droid who he calls Brinks. They both board the Yanagi and begin an investigation filled with secrets and unspeakable fears that’ll haunt him for the rest of his life.

McCool masterfully builds suspense through minimalist prose and subtle world-building, letting the isolation of space and the Yanagi’s ghostly silence speak volumes: “He took a few steps down, the eerie feeling hanging over him like a predator in the night made his hand hover close to his holster. This kind of quiet was unnatural.” The vessel isn’t just a wreck; it’s a tomb echoing with unresolved trauma, the “whispers” of an unknown tragedy lingering in every corridor. As Locilette pieces together the fate of the crew, readers are drawn into a chilling narrative that blends hard science fiction with psychological thriller elements and plenty of plot twists to keep them guessing until the final shocking reveal.

With vivid language and employing the senses, he brings the settings to life: “The sound of Brink’s footsteps crunching on the glass grew closer and closer, its eyes like two bobbing blue orbs dancing in the darkness.” The pacing is deliberate, even meditative at times, inviting introspection on grief, loss, and the consequences of hubris in deep space.

More Than a Sci-Fi Thriller

Beneath the surface, this is a story about grief, memory, and the psychological toll of isolation. McCool invites readers to reflect on humanity’s vulnerability, especially when facing the unknown. By deeply developing Locilette’s character, he becomes relatable and readers get emotionally invested in his safety. The eerie quiet of the ship is palpable, and every creaking bulkhead and flickering light hints at a deeper, darker story. Plus, the tension comes not from action-packed battles, but from the slow unraveling of a haunting mystery.

Final Thoughts

Overall, “Echoes From A Distant Star” is a gripping and suspenseful series debut that sets a strong foundation for the Ranger series. It explores the themes of family, friendship, survival, heroism, and good versus evil. I recommend it for fans of science fiction space adventures similar to the Star Trek franchise. McCool’s blend of mystery and melancholy makes for a compelling read that lingers long after the final page.

“This place was getting to him much more than he realized. Although his extensive training and career experience shielded him from a great deal of the trauma he had witnessed to this point, everyone had their limit, and he was almost at his own.”

Rating: 5 out of 5.

About the author

John R. MCCool III hails from a small town in the great state of Mississippi. He fell in love with writing at a very young age, oftentimes writing stories during class rather than paying attention. He now resides in Rossville, Illinois where most of his time is spent attending to the day-to-day operations of a local coffee company, which is like a second home to him. When not writing or sipping coffee, John loves spending time with his wife and kids who give him the inspiration to pursue all of his dreams.