Tag: fiction

Book review: ‘The Girl from Wudang’ by PJ Caldas

‘The Girl from Wudang: A Novel About Artificial Intelligence, Martial Arts and Immortality’ by PJ Caldas. Photo: Amazon

PJ Caldas, a.k.a PJ Pereira, the author of multiple best-selling novels in Brazil, was named one of the most important writers of the 21st century by the Dictionary of Brazilian Literature. He published four books inspired by the mythology carried to the country by the African diaspora and reached the top five best-selling titles multiple times. PJ is also a martial artist with 40 years of experience in combat sports, including kempo, karate, tai chi, and Brazilian jiu jitsu. In 2023 he was named Jury President of the Artificial Intelligence Awards at the Art Director’s Club and curated a Global immersive exhibit of designers collaborating with AI, called ADC101+1, as a way to explore the use of this emerging technology as a creative tool. His new book “The Girl from Wudang” is a story about immortality, martial arts, and AI that will change the way you look at life, science, and the crazy times we are living in.

“The Girl from Wudang” – My Name is Tigress and I am immortal. This is my story. Embark on a mind-bending journey with Tigress as she navigates the confusing jumps of conscience that throw her between tender moments of her childhood practicing Tai Chi in China, the most violent cage fights in California, and a secret lab where scientists experiment with her brain. She was raised in a traditional Chinese setting, immersed in Tai Chi and the Dao, but life soon takes her to California where she gets involved in professional fighting, which she loves. The story begins with an internet Blackout and Tigress is watching it unfold on television in her Oakland home and then decides to go for a jog around the neighborhood. Trouble always seems to find her, or she goes looking for it, but either way, she gets involved in a brutal street fight. Then there is a flash and she is transported to another location. This is Tigress’ life, and she shares her experiences as well as the journey that completely changes her life.

In “The Girl from Wudang,” PJ Caldas gives readers a look into the life of a confident, strong, and self-reliant fighter who evolves from a street fighter to a selfless immortal being. She is a trained fighter, and at first she is smug, but her intent is to teach women to fight: “When it comes to fighting, here’s the difference between a guy and a girl: we know they underestimate us. And I love to make them regret that.” Searching for a way to alleviate her chronic headaches, she allows herself to be part of an experiment and that is where cutting edge technology steps in. Tigress is telling her story, so it is in the first person point of view and the narration, especially the fight scenes, are highly descriptive: “My heels smash his sternum, making a crack and a puffing sound, though momentum and idiocy keep pushing his hips forward.” At first, the footnotes seem out of place, but they become useful when explaining Chinese culture and the author’s thought processes and other background information. The action is fast paced but the sudden jumps in location can seem confusing and some of the fight action is bloody and violent. Regardless, this speculative science fiction novel expertly combines ancient traditions, modern day technology/science, spirituality, and martial arts. It is a must read for fans of cyberpunk and science fiction thrillers by William Gibson and Stieg Larsson.

“This strange dimension where I live, this place nerds call ‘the cloud’ isn’t the Dao of my ancestors. Though, from where I stand, I can hear everything.”

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

New book release: ‘Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness’ by Jane Kim Yu

‘Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness’ is the inspiring new book by Jane Kim Yu. Photo: Amazon

Motivational books can be inspiring and helpful on your spiritual journey of self discovery. This is especially true when the author includes his or her life experiences. Today’s new book release is all about spiritual awakening and discovering yourself. “Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness” by Jane Kim Yu is an encouraging guide that will help you discover your true self and is filled with advice, tips, and motivational wisdom. If self improvement is one of your New Year’s resolutions, consider this amazing new book on self-discovery, self-awareness, and living your best life yet. It is available on Amazon in English and Spanish versions. Don’t wait! Pick up your copy today begin your own journey of awakening.

Dr. Jane Kim Yu holds a Doctorate in Pharmacy from the renowned St. John’s University. From a young age, she aspired to become an author and share her vision through artistic creation. This dream became reality with the publication of her debut book, “Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness.” Jane’s work is a testament to her three driving passions: eloquent writing, intricate creative expression, and a deep-seated spirituality. These are demonstrated in her life and through her newsletter Soul Secrets, where she discusses hope, love, life, and the beauty of it all from our humanity to our divinity to the grace that guides our life. Her works bridge the gap between the empirical and the ethereal, resonating with readers and art aficionados alike. (Jane Kim Yu, 2024)

“Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness” – Discover the journey of awakening in a new light never seen before. Read about our universal journey of discovery, of awakening to the greatest truth of the land, the truth that reverberates in our very hands, the hands of heart, the very heart of our being, that – you are love.

Through a profoundly rare experience that left the author’s mind silent for nearly half a year, it awakened her own desire to find her fire. The very fire that lit the night sky. The very fire that lives in all our hearts nigh. The very fire, to come alive. These combine into an unforgettable experience that will awaken your inner fire and bring passion and purpose back into your life.

“True spirituality is a true coming alive, for it’s not what you do; it’s who you are. Which means living the life of your dreams on your terms and, most of all, in your heart as the you that you are. Love unleashed.”

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Upcoming new book release: ‘The Bad Weather Friend’ by Dean Koontz

‘The Bad Weather Friend’ will be released February 1, 2024. Photo: Amazon

International bestselling author Dean Koontz was only a senior in college when he won an Atlantic Monthly fiction competition. Koontz is the author of several bestsellers, fourteen of which were #1, including “One Door Away from Heaven,” “From the Corner of His Eye,” and “What the Night Knows.” Rolling Stone has hailed him as “America’s most popular suspense novelist,” and his books have been published in thirty-eight languages and have sold over five hundred million copies worldwide. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, he now lives in Southern California with his wife, Gerda, their golden retriever, Elsa, and the enduring spirits of their goldens Trixie and Anna. In his newest novel, “The Bad Weather Friend,” Benny is so nice they feel compelled to destroy him, but he has a friend who should scare the hell out of them. The breathtaking new thriller will be released February 1, 2024 and is available for pre-order on Amazon. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Bad Weather Friend” – Benny Catspaw’s perpetually sunny disposition is tested when he loses his job, his reputation, his fiancée, and his favorite chair. He’s not paranoid. Someone is out to get him. He just doesn’t know who or why. Then Benny receives an inheritance from an unknown uncle: a giant crate and a video message. All will be well in time.

How strange—though it’s a blessing, his uncle promises. Stranger yet is what’s inside the crate. He’s a seven-foot-tall self-described “bad weather friend” named Spike whose mission is to help people who are just too good for this world. Spike will take care of it. He’ll find Benny’s enemies. He’ll deal with them. This might be satisfying if Spike wasn’t such a menacing presence with terrifying techniques of intimidation.

In the company of Spike and a fascinated young waitress-cum-PI-in-training named Harper, Benny plunges into a perilous high-speed adventure, the likes of which never would have crossed the mind of a decent guy like him.

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Tell us who your bad weather friend in the comments 👇 The Bad Weather Friend by Dean Koontz is now available to read early with Amazon First Reads. #DeanKoontz #ThrillerBooks #BookTok #BFFs #BadWeatherFriend

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New book release: ‘Dissonance Volume I: Reality’ by Aaron Ryan

‘Dissonance Volume I: Reality’ is book number one in the Dissonance Trilogy. It is available now. Photo: Amazon

Dystopian sci-fi thrillers take place in societies in decline where the characters are battling environmental ruin, technological control, and government oppression. These are some of the most imaginative novels out there and are one of my favorite genres. If you are ready for your next dystopian sci-fi thriller, consider today’s new release: “Dissonance Volume I: Reality” by Aaron Ryan. It is the first in the Dissonance Trilogy and promises plenty of thrills and is defined as Aliens meets A Quiet Place. “Dissonance Volume I: Reality” is available through the author’s website. More about the author here.

Aaron Ryan is the author of the Dissonance series, several business books on multimedia production penned under a pseudonym, as well as a previous fictional novel, “The Omega Room.” He has always had a passion for storytelling. When he was in second grade, he was tasked with writing a creative assignment: a fictional book. And thus, “The Electric Boy” was born: a simple novella full of intrigue, fantasy, and 7-year-old wits that electrified Aaron’s desire to write. From that point forward, Aaron evolved into a creative soul that desired to create.

He enjoys the arts, media, music, performing, poetry, and being a daddy. In his lifetime he has been an author, voiceover artist, wedding videographer, stage performer, musician, producer, rock/pop artist, executive assistant, service manager, paperboy, CSR, poet, tech support, worship leader, and more. The diversity of his life experiences gives him a unique approach to business, life, ministry, faith, and entertainment. Aaron’s favorite author by far is J.R.R. Tolkien, but he also enjoys Suzanne Collins, James S.A. Corey, Marie Lu, Madeleine L’Engle, C.S. Lewis, and Stephen King. Aaron Ryan lives in Washington with his wife and two sons, along with Macy the dog, Winston the cat, and Merry and Pippin, the finches.

“Dissonance Volume I: Reality”

Plug your ears. Don’t look. The war for humanity has begun. Cameron “Jet” Shipley was there when they arrived in 2026. He, and everyone else, lived through the next decade and a half, learning to hide. Learning to never make a sound. Learning the most important rule of all: You just…don’t…look.

The year is now 2042, and humanity is eking out an existence in the shadows. Cameron and his team are sent out on a recon mission in Clarksville Tennessee, with events and developments that may alter the trajectory of Earth’s fate…and his own.

Joined by newcomers Bassett and Trudy, Cameron and his brother Rut will have to contend with a powerful force that has laid waste to the planet and annihilated over eighty-five percent of civilization. Will Jet’s expeditions lead him on a slippery slope of discovery that demands accountability and answers? Or will it plunge the earth, and everything in it, into further dissonance?

Coming soon: “Dissonance Volume II: Reckoning” and “Dissonance Volume III: Revenge”

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Book of the week: ‘Karen the Origin Story’ by Andre Johnson

‘Karen the Origin Story’ is the second book in the Amish Sovereignty series by Andre Johnson. Photo: Andre Johnson, used with permission.

Literature and fiction does not always have to be so serious. Humor is essential to lighten life’s heavier moments, especially when dealing with history and everyday life. By now we have all heard of the term ‘Karen’ in modern slang. It usually refers to a middle class white woman who is seen as extraordinarily entitled or demanding. Today’s book highlight is “Karen the Origin Story” by Andre Johnson and it touches on that subject; it is available on Amazon. If you enjoy the lighter side of fiction, consider this humorous title by Andre Johnson.

Andre Johnson is the author of “Karen the Origin Story,” book 2 of 3 in the Amish Sovereignty series which also includes “Amish” and “Karen the Horror Story.”

“Karen the Origin Story” Noah and Anita are fraternal Amish twins. These twins and two of their friends go on their Rumspringa. While on Rumspringa, the group realizes that things are a little different and that they really like chili cheese fries. Midway though Rumspringa, they realize that they need to make a difference before going home. (Andre Johnson, 2024)

For anyone unfamiliar with Rumspringa, it is a rite of passage and period of growth for Amish young people during which they face fewer restrictions on their behavior and are not subject to the usual community norms. It usually begins at age 16 and ends when a youth chooses to either be baptized in the Amish church or leave the community. (Google)

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New book release: ‘The Law of Beasts, Book 1 – Act 1’ by Dapharoah69

‘The Law of Beasts, Book 1 – Act 1’ is the new book by Dapharoah69. Photo: Dapharoah69, used with permission.

Fantasy fiction takes place in faraway imaginary worlds that contain supernatural beings and creatures, including vampires. Vampires make for some of the most fascinating storylines I have read; especially when there is some type of power struggle between warring factions involved. Today’s new book release by the talented storyteller Dapharoah69 is one such book. “The Law of Beasts, Book 1 – Act 1” features Khovahsh Burgoos, a nine thousand-year-old member of the Dragonhead Ancients, and introduces readers to Alicia Chay, a sadistic queen of torture. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? Don’t wait! Get your copy today and find out what happens next. “The Law of Beasts, Book 1 – Act 1” is available on Amazon.

Dapharoah69 is a multi-award-winning, best-selling, independent literary force born in Salinas, California and raised in Goulds, Florida. For twenty years, he has entertained millions of fans around the globe with his unapologetic writing. He is an LGBTQIA sex symbol, spoken word artist, poet, HIV activist, actor, professional model, dancer, literary icon, and a living legend. His success and killer ink have influenced a sea of writers in numerous countries for two decades. (Dapharoah69, 2024)

He wrote “The Law of Beasts, Book 1 – Act 1” of his vampire series in June of 1998 before he became Dapharoah69 at the age of 22. He was known as Ja’Breel Le’Diamond. He published his first book when he was homeless. He has penned thirteen books and three memoirs and notched ten Amazon and Barnes and Noble Top 100 bestsellers. He won Book of the Year and Male Author of the Year via the African-American On the Move Book Club, The Men of Integrity Award from Utopian LLC and a Certificate of Recognition from the New York State Senate for his literary achievements.

“The Law of Beasts, Book 1 – Act 1” – Khovahsh Burgoos, an elitist demi-shifting reincarnate, is a nine thousand-year-old member of the Dragonhead Ancients. Alicia Chay, the sadistic queen of torture, ruled for forty centuries under the identity of someone else. With a family of savages as her fledgling, she detests mortals, but she loves feeding on them for blood. She became a vampire, built The House of the Hounds and created a treaty without clearance from the Dragonhead Ancients or the Queen Mother, Armona. Alicia hunts down insubordinate vampires that illegally use human bodies to harm precious animal life. Meanwhile, she is being observed by Khovahsh. He has direct orders to deceive her, but he has his own agenda. When they encounter each other, a chain of events compromises her life and opens the door for Muzzle, an angry villain, to threaten her for turning her back on The House of the Hounds.

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New book release: ‘Flashback: Lolita’ by P.M. Richter

‘Flashback: Lolita’ is the new novel by P.M. Richter. Photo: Amazon

Crime fiction centers around crimes, criminals, police, and the investigations that surround them. The mystery and suspense is what makes these novels so fascinating to read. Today’s new book release is one such novel: “Flashback: Lolita” by P.M. Richter. If you like mystery, crime, and psychological thrillers with a female lead character, check out this new novel. Buy your copy today; it is available on Amazon.

P.M. Richter is an author living in West Hollywood California. She has a degree in Psychology from Northridge State University. She has worked as a property manager for Nansay, Corp. a multi-national corporation and has been a dance teacher for Arthur Murray and Fred Astaire Dance Studios. She loves reading, writing, and making covers for her books. Her new book “Flashback: Lolita (Abuse, Mafia Wife, Prison)” is a flashback on Lolita’s life and book 3 in the Deadly Fun Series. The series includes “Deadly Fun” and “Precious and Deadly.” (Pamela M Richter, 2024)

“Flashback: Lolita” – A Cinderella Story? Yes, she has an evil, abusive mother and a terrible early life filled with physical abuse. Yes, she meets the handsome Mafia Prince in church of all places. They are madly in love and have a gorgeous fairytale wedding. They live in a beautiful mansion. Fabulously rich and young, they look forward to a wonderful life. Lolita loves being wife to the Mafia enforcer. She has everything she’s ever wanted and adores her husband. But Happily Ever After? I don’t think so.

All the fairy tales and romance stories end with “And They Lived Happily Ever After.” What really happens after the ‘Ever After?’ Could it be tragic? Well, yeah.

When the Prince is gone forever, murdered. When political forces targeting the Mafia cause a miscarriage of justice. When you’re thrown into a maximum-security women’s prison. Then it’s just a matter of survival.

Clashing steel gates. Your room is big and scary. The food is awful. Working daily in the laundry, like a real Cinderella, is hot and exhausting. The nights are filled with inmates screaming and crying.

The guards are mostly okay, making sure the prisoners follow strict prison rules. Except one, who has it in for Lolita. A real nasty character who came from a rival Mafia gang in Chicago. He is determined she will suffer. Maybe never leave the prison alive.

Drones fly over the prison gates, delivering contraband, poison pills, and weapons. There are strip searches for hidden drugs. Fights break out between inmates. Rival gangs clash in warfare. Drugs are rampant. Can Lolita survive?

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Photo: Amazon

New book release: ‘Kengi’s House’ by Griffin Hurley

‘Kengi’s House’ is the captivating new book by Griffin Hurley. Photo: Griffin Hurley, used with permission.

Fantasy novels are fascinating to read because they involve imaginary worlds, magic, and mythical and supernatural creatures. They are full of action and adventure and transport readers into other worlds populated by complex characters. If you are ready for your next exciting fantasy/action adventure read, consider today’s new book release, “Kengi’s House” by Griffin Hurley. It features a young man named Dak who embarks on a journey of self-discovery while unraveling family secrets and confronting his own doubts and fears. Don’t wait! Pick up your copy today and find out how Dak’s journey ends. It is available on Amazon.

Griffin Hurley is a fresh voice in the literary scene, bringing a passion for storytelling to the forefront. With a knack for creating engaging narratives, Griffin’s writing reflects a love for words and a deep connection to the human experience. Stay tuned for captivating tales that invite readers to explore new worlds and plots. In his new book “Kengi’s House,” Dak navigates a world filled with gangsters, power struggles, and moral dilemmas. (Griffin Hurley, 2024)

“Kengi’s House” – “Dak’s Journey” follows the life-changing odyssey of Dak, a young man living in the vibrant and mystical city of Eldoria. Amidst a world where mortals and deities coexist, Dak finds himself thrust into a whirlwind of divine encounters and epic challenges that test his courage, resilience, and inner strength.

The story unfolds as Dak’s tranquil life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Kami, a powerful deity who takes a keen interest in him. As rumors spread and alliances shift, Dak becomes entangled in a complex web of political intrigues and supernatural conflicts that threaten the balance of his city and the world beyond.

As he prepares for a pivotal meeting with Kami, Dak must not only contend with the forces vying for control, but also grapple with matters of the heart. His evolving connection with his best friend Joy and the challenges they face together add a layer of depth to his narrative, forcing him to confront his feeling and priorities.

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New book release: ‘Bad Boy Billionaire Protector’ by Ava Becker

‘Bad Boy Billionaire Protector’ is the new Off Limits College Romance novel by Ava Becker. Photo: Ava Becker, used with permission.

Contemporary romance novels feature romance stories set in modern times. These are some of the most popular types of romance novels and often involve a couple overcoming the odds for their happily ever after. In today’s new book release, can true love rise from the ashes of tragedy and escalating threats? Find out in “Bad Boy Billionaire Protector,” a steamy new contemporary romance novel by Ava Becker? Does it sound like your type of romance novel? Then don’t wait and pick up your copy today –  it is currently available exclusively on Amazon. Sign up for Ava Becker’s newsletter and receive a free book.

Ava Becker is an up and coming author who finds herself starting most days emerging from a comatose state over a cup of coffee, sneaking bites of morning pancakes from her children, tripping over those same children’s bookbags that seem to dart in front of her on purpose, hoping that her husband took the dog outside for his morning potty break before leaving for work, and making sure people get a good look at her perpetual bedhead as she struts around the house in such fashion for as long as possible. Not scary at all.

She considers herself the luckiest person to be able to write stories of love and passion that illustrate an inexorable connection between her characters. She loves romances that hold your attention and make it impossible to put the book down. She especially delights in a twisty story and she is always apologizing to the poor soul who gets the short end of the stick. Her stories often involve strong, commanding, charismatic men who let themselves be vulnerable to the smart, sexy, lovable women who steal their hearts. Add of dash of humor and, mwah! Parfait! “Bad Boy Billionaire Protector,” her fifth book, is a contemporary romance between college student Amber and graduate student Christos, who is really an undercover FBI agent. (Ava Becker, 2023)

“Bad Boy Billionaire Protector” – When grieving college junior Amber meets graduate student Christos following the tragic suicide of her boyfriend, there is an instant and explosive attraction between them. But Christos harbors a shocking secret—he is actually undercover FBI agent Mason King, investigating a string of suspicious deaths, including that of Amber’s deceased boyfriend, and their connection to an elite secret society at Stanford University.

As Mason continues crossing personal and professional lines as he pursues Amber, he soon reveals a stunning revelation that undermines her trust and love for him. At the same time, looming threats from the secret society soon sweep this couple along a dangerous path that could destroy any chance at happiness.

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New book release: ‘Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)’ by Tal Storm

‘Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)’ is the new fantasy novel by Tal Storm. Photo: Tal Storm, used with permission.

Fantasy novels are so exciting to read because they often transport you to other worlds and realms filled with mythical and magical beings. Magic and a quest for power usually play a big part. If fantasy novels are your go to for escapist reads, consider today’s new book release. “Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” by Tal Storm is a dark fantasy story about a young noble girl named Darah Mata. She gets turned into a vampire by her uncle and is forced to learn the dark art of Necromancy. She is tortured for any of her failings and despite the pain, she still yearns for her freedom. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? Pick up your copy of “Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” on Amazon and find out what happens to Darah.

Tal Storm is an author, a groundskeeper, and a small engine repairman. When not working on equipment, his mind wanders to another world filled with fun fantasy and sci-fi stories. Now, he wishes to share these tales with everyone who loves to share in the joy of fantasy. (Tal Storm, 2023)

“Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” – In Alleria, the Tel’eev Ascendency’s war of conquest sent ripples throughout the world. This is true for Darah Mata, who has been turned into a vampire by the machinations of her uncle. Now, she is forced to learn the dreaded magic of necromancy while being tortured for any failings. Will she be able to attain the freedom from this torment that she seeks?

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Necrohamster wearing a dark cloak. Photo: Tal Storm, used with permission.