Tag: Literature

Therese Bohman’s ‘Andromeda: A Novel’ – A Story of Power and a Changing World

‘Andromeda: A Novel’ is the new novel by critically acclaimed Swedish author Therese Bohman. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Therese Bohman grew up outside of Norrköping and now lives in Stockholm. Her debut novel“Drowned” received critical acclaim both in Sweden and internationally and was selected as an Oprah Winfrey Summer Read. Her second novel “The Other Woman” was short- listed for the Nordic Council Prize and Swedish Radio’s Fiction Prize, while her third novel “Eventide” was short-listed for Sweden’s most prestigious literary award, the August Prize. Bohman is an arts journalist who regularly contributes to one of Sweden’s largest newspapers, Expressen, and to the magazine Tidningen Vi. (Other Press, 2024)

The latest novel from critically acclaimed Swedish author Therese Bohman, “Andromeda: A Novel,” is a sharp and insightful tale of power and a changing world.

“Andromeda” – In this ambitious novel, a young woman working her way up at a storied Stockholm publisher develops an ambiguous, shifting relationship with her boss. A shrewd study about the tension between tradition and modernity, and expectations and reality, “Andromeda” offers a fresh perspective from a fierce voice and will be released on January 14, 2025. It is available for pre-order.

The publishing house is anchored like a ship along Stockholm’s main street, a large, bright building with an impressive rooftop terrace. The facade is a grid of wood and granite; flags with a cursive R sway in the wind. R as in Rydéns. A young woman starts as an intern at this venerated institution, and over many years gains more and more responsibility for its authors and books. All under the supervision of Gunnar, publishing director of the most prestigious imprint behind the finest literature, Andromeda. Over time their work relationship transforms into something neither of them can truly define. Perhaps built on mutual trust? Or is it something else?

Perfect for fans of the complex relationship dynamics and the explorations of female agency in Coco Mellors’s “Cleopatra and Frankenstein” and Julia May Jonas’s “Vladimir,” “Andromeda” is sure to linger in the minds of longtime lovers of Bohman’s work and new readers alike. It is translated by Marlaine Delargy.

Marlaine Delargy has translated novels by John Ajvide Lindqvist, Kristina Ohlsson, and Helene Tursten, as well as “The Unit” by Ninni Holmqvist and Therese Bohman’s “Drowned.” She lives in England.

“Elegant and captivating, Andromeda plumbs the depths of the tantalizingly ambiguous relationship between college-aged Sofie and her middle-aged boss, Gunnar. Both characters (understandably) deride the overused phrase ‘balance of power,’ and yet the novel does indeed offer a fresh and provocative subversion of that familiar narrative—it was thrilling to watch their electric, profound connection unfold. As their worldviews intertwine, the novel delves into the ways literature shapes our lives, our desires and disappointments. I inhaled this book and will be thinking about it for a while.”
—Caitlin Barasch, author of A Novel Obsession

“Andromeda is the best kind of company—a book I kept longing to return to, full of ideas and emotion.”
—Julia May Jonas, author of Vladimir

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‘The Collaborators’: A Tale of Ambition and Survival by Michael Idov

‘The Collaborators’ is the exciting new political and espionage thriller by Michael Idov. Photo: Amazon

Michael Idov is a novelist, director, and screenwriter. A Latvian-born American raised in Riga under Soviet occupation, he moved to New York after graduating from the University of Michigan. His new book “The Collaborators” is an electrifying, cutting-edge spy thriller featuring a brilliant young intelligence officer and a troubled heiress who stumble into a global conspiracy that pits Russia against the CIA. (Simon & Schuster, 2024)

“The Collaborators” –  Anton Basmanny is the Kremlin’s least favorite blogger with a bullseye on his back. He is aboard an airplane on the way to meet Ari Falk, a cynical CIA agent whose cover is to help Russian opposition journalists run stories that could be damaging to the Kremlin. Anton knows any day could be his last, so he isn’t too surprised when his flight is forced to land. He is detained in a cell along with a couple, an American and his wife, and when they are taken away and he hears two gunshots, he fears the worst. The man happened to be Russian American billionaire Paul Obrandt whose suicide later makes international headlines. Falk eventually crosses paths with LA heiress Maya Chou, a.k.a. Paul Obrandt’s daughter. Their globe-trotting adventures will not only put them in danger, but will reveal secrets neither one of them saw coming and will forever change Maya’s view of her father.

This novel is a gripping exploration of identity, loyalty, and the complexities of life in contemporary Russia. Idov skillfully combines personal and political narratives, creating a vivid backdrop that captures the tensions of life as an intelligence officer in an ever changing political landscape. The narrative is non-linear and the prose is both sharp and haunting, immersing readers in a chaotic atmosphere, where friendships can be as fragile as the truth. The deep character development adds depth to the narrative and the author’s ability to blend humor with darker themes provides a balanced and engaging read. Laced with wit, the dialogue provides a refreshing contrast to the underlying seriousness of Falk and Maya’s situation. One of the highlights is the intense car chase towards the end of Chapter 5 when they are being chased and every second counts as they race towards the US embassy.

Overall, “The Collaborators” is more than a thrilling espionage thriller, it’s a tale of survival and profound meditation on the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity. It’s a compelling must-read for anyone interested in the intersections of philosophy and politics. Idov’s work resonates powerfully, offering a poignant reminder of the complexities inherent in the human condition. Readers who enjoy similar works from Robert Ludlum, John le Carré, and Brad Thor will find it just as gripping.  

*The author received an ARC for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Charif Majdalani’s Latest Novel: A Chronicle of the Rise and Fall of the Nassar Clan

‘A History of the Big House: A Novel’ is the new novel by Charif Majdalani. Photo: Other Press

Charif Majdalani was born in Lebanon in 1960 and is one of the most important figures in Lebanese literature today. After living in France for thirteen years, he returned to Lebanon in 1993 and now teaches French literature at the Université Saint-Joseph in Beirut. His novel “Moving the Palace” won the 2008 François Mauriac Prize from the Académie Française as well as the Prix Tropiques. His previous book “Beirut 2020: Diary of the Collapse” was published by Other Press in 2021. “A History of the Big House: A Novel,”his new novel, will be released on December 17, 2024. It is available for pre-order through Other Press. (Other Press, 2024)

From Charif Majdalani, one of the most important figures in Lebanese literature today, comes a sweeping family saga, “A History of the Big House: A Novel.” It chronicles the rise and fall of the Nassar clan, as they navigate the great events of the 20th century in Lebanon, from the Ottoman Empire to the French Mandate, following the various generations’ fight to keep and maintain their family house, and subsequent paths to exile.

At the end of the 19th century, a man is forced to flee his village after a quarrel. Starting over with nothing, the banished, audacious Wakim Nassar will create orange plantations on the outskirts of Beirut and become the head of a large clan, feared and respected. The great house he builds at their center will become a powerful symbol of the Nassars’ glory, admired from afar. The eponymous sits at the center of this grand novel, becoming its main character. Everyone and everything, from the Nassar family to the course of history, seems to evolve alongside this home. But this decadence is short-lived, battered by the First World War, illness, family tragedy, and the shifting regimes that control Lebanon. As circumstances compel Wakim’s descendants, one by one, to leave the house, it falls into ruin.

A rich saga, full of unforgettable characters and anchored in historical fact, perfect for fans of Hala Alyan’s atmospheric family stories, “A History of the Big House: A Novel” captures the unique experience of the Lebanese people through this family’s triumphs and struggles.

About the Translator: Ruth Diver holds a PhD in French and comparative literature from the University of Paris 8 and the University of Auckland, New Zealand. She won two 2018 French Voices Awards for her translations of Marx and the Doll by Maryam Madjidi, and Titus Did Not Love Berenice by Nathalie Azoulai. She also won Asymptote’s 2016 Close Approximations fiction prize for her translation of extracts of Maraudes by Sophie Pujas.

Advance Praise for ‘A History of the Big House‘: 

“This is what happens when poets write history; Majdalani weaves facts and dreams, the lives of men and nations, real and imagined, the smell of orange trees, of strong, black coffee on a Levantine morning—you can almost taste it. I could see that big house; I recognized it. This book took me home.”
—Yara Zgheib, author of No Land to Light On

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‘Memorials:’ The Haunting Must-Read New Horror Novel by Richard Chizmar

‘Memorials’ is the new horror novel by Richard Chizmar. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Horror novels captivate readers by tapping into deep-seated fears and the unknown, offering a thrilling escape from reality. They engage the imagination, inviting readers to confront the darker aspects of human nature, often exploring themes of mortality, isolation, and the supernatural. The suspenseful plots, eerie atmospheres, and unexpected twists keep readers on edge, fostering a sense of catharsis through the release of tension. They provide a safe space for exploring fear, allowing readers to experience adrenaline-pumping emotions without real danger. This blend of psychological intrigue and visceral excitement is what makes horror fiction so irresistibly compelling.

I love horror novels and have been reading them since elementary school. There’s a new horror novel out by Richard Chizmar, “Memorials,” that has been getting rave reviews, especially from Stephen King.

“Scary and hard to put down. You might be advised not to read it at night.”
—Stephen King

Richard Chizmar is the coauthor (with Stephen King) of the New York Times bestselling novella Gwendy’s Button Box and “Gwendy’s Final Task,” and the solo novella Gwendy’s Magic Feather. Recent books include the New York Times bestsellers “Becoming the Boogeyman” and “Chasing the Boogeyman,” “The Girl on the Porch,” “The Long Way Home,” his fourth short story collection, and Widow’s Point, a chilling tale about a haunted lighthouse co-written with his son Billy Chizmar, which was recently made into a feature film. His short fiction has appeared in dozens of publications, including Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine and The Year’s 25 Finest Crime and Mystery Stories. He has won two World Fantasy awards, four International Horror Guild awards, and the HWA’s Board of Trustees award. Chizmar’s work has been translated into more than fifteen languages throughout the world, and he has appeared at numerous conferences as a writing instructor, speaker, panelist, and guest of honor.

“Memorials” – 1983: Three students from a small college embark on a week-long road trip to film a documentary on roadside memorials for their American Studies class. The project starts out as a fun adventure with long stretches of empty road and nightly campfires where they begin to open up with one another.

But as they venture deeper into the Appalachian backwoods, the atmosphere begins to darken. They notice more and more of the memorials feature a strange, unsettling symbol hinting at a sinister secret. Paranoia sets in when it appears they are being followed. Their vehicle is tampered with overnight and some of the locals appear to be anything but welcoming. Before long, the students can’t help but wonder if these roadside deaths were really random accidents…or is something terrifying at work here?

A Beacon of Hope: Exploring Trevor Dutcher’s ‘The Keepers of the Light’

‘The Keepers of the Light’ is the exciting new YA magical fantasy novel by Trevor A. Dutcher. Photo: Amazon

Fantasy books for young readers open up magical worlds filled with adventure, friendship, and imagination. These stories often feature brave heroes, mythical creatures, and enchanted realms, inviting children to explore their creativity. Popular series like “Harry Potter” and “Percy Jackson” not only entertain but also teach valuable lessons about courage, loyalty, and resilience. Fantasy encourages readers to dream big, confront challenges, and embrace their unique identities. With vibrant descriptions and engaging plots, these books ignite a love for reading and inspire young minds to embark on their own fantastical journeys. Ultimately, they foster a sense of wonder and possibility in every child.

This month, there’s a new fantasy book coming by Trevor A. Dutcher – “The Keepers of the Light (Logan LeVec Book 1) – “What if an entire world depended on you to preserve their very existence?”

Trevor A. Dutcher is a practicing attorney who writes fiction for fun. “Michael McGillicuddy and the Most Amazing Race” was his debut novel with many more in the works. “The Keepers of the Light” is his new YA novel and will be released on October 27, 2024. It is available for pre-order on Amazon.

Review:
Logan LeVec is a normal, well adjusted twelve year old. He lives with his parents and his older brother Bryce, who loves to torment him, and has a close relationship with his grandfather Gideon. Gideon is always entertaining him with outlandish fantasy stories and this worries Logan’s mother because she fears Gideon is losing his grip on reality. When Gideon passes away, Logan discovers that the stories were all true and meant to be a form of training to prepare him for his higher purpose, to become a Keeper of the Light.

With the help of Muggins the Elementalist, and Ginny the girl next door, Logan enters Cameria through a magic portal in a tree. Cameria is a magical place but it is under attack because Karma is stealing the Light; she is vengeful and wants to destroy Cameria. To be able to help, Logan must be anointed a Keeper of the Light, defeat Karma and release the Light in order to return Cameria to its original glory. No pressure there. If he fails, Cameria will be lost forever. One of Karma’s weapons is an enchanted mirror she uses to force people to “reflect” on their wrongdoings. With Muggins and Ginny by his side, Logan must defeat Karma and her army of dissenters before the darkness overwhelms Cameria and all the goodness disappears for good.

“The Keepers of the Light” by Trevor Dutcher is a fascinating blend of adventure and personal growth set against a richly imagined setting. The story follows an unlikely hero tasked with picking up where his grandfather left off and save a world threatened by darkness and evil.

Dutcher’s prose is rich and descriptive, drawing readers into a vivid landscape filled with compelling characters and intricate folklore. The world-building in Cameria is impressive; the author creates an intricate mythology that feels original and timeless. The pacing is well-balanced, maintaining tension and excitement while allowing for moments of self-reflection. Underlying the fantasy aspect, there’s also courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope. Each character is well-developed, especially Muggins and the different regions of Cameria, giving them unique strengths and vulnerabilities that make them relatable. The first person narrative immerses readers into Logan’s innermost thoughts and struggles. While exploring the themes of friendship and good versus evil, it illustrates how diverse individuals can come together for a common cause regardless of background.

Overall, “The Keepers of the Light” is a captivating coming of age fantasy story with exciting settings and characters. Even though it’s a young adult novel, it’s entertaining for all ages and the imaginative storytelling keeps readers immersed in the adventures of Logan and Ginny. It is an easy read and is recommended for fans of fantasy and adventure with likeable characters. Since this is Book 1, I’m sure there are more to come, making this the beginning of an exciting series.

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

Rating: 5 out of 5.
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Poetry and Soul: What to Expect from Ben Okri’s ‘Wild: Poems’

‘Wild: Poems’ is a stunning new poetry collection by Ben Okri. Photo: Amazon

Poetry captures fleeting moments, distills complex feelings, and offers a voice to the unspoken. Each poem is a unique exploration of life, love, loss, and beauty, inviting readers to experience the world through different lenses. With its playful use of language, poetry can provoke thought, inspire change, or simply provide solace. Whether through sonnets, haikus, or free verse, poets craft their truths, creating connections that transcend time and culture, reminding us of our shared humanity. It serves as a vital outlet for self-expression, allowing individuals to articulate their innermost thoughts and emotions.

In a world that often silences voices, poetry provides a platform for authenticity and vulnerability. It helps us process experiences, whether joyful or painful, fostering healing and understanding. Through imagery and metaphor, poets can convey complex ideas and emotions in ways that resonate deeply with others. This connection can spark empathy and inspire change, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives. Ultimately, poetry empowers individuals to embrace their unique perspectives, cultivating a richer, more diverse tapestry of human experience.

For poetry fans, I’d like to highlight a poetry collection by Ben Okri, “Wild: Poems” that will be released this month.

Ben Okri is a playwright, poet, novelist, essayist, short-story writer, anthologist, and aphorist. He has also written film scripts. His works have won numerous national and international prizes, including the Booker Prize for Fiction. His books include the eco-fable “Every Leaf a Hallelujah,” the play Changing Destiny, the genre-bending climate fiction “Tiger Work,” the poetry collections “A Fire in My Head” and “Mental Fight,” and the novels “Astonishing the Gods,” “The Last Gift of the Master Artists,” and “Dangerous Love.” In 2023 he received a knighthood for services to literature. His latest book “Wild: Poems” will be released on October 22, 2024 and is available for pre-order through Other Press. (Other Press, 2024)

“Wild: Poems” – is a rich, joyful anthology of poems on living and loving from the Booker Prize–winning Ben Okri, who recently received knighthood for his services to literature.

Freedom is the most precious commodity in the world. In this powerful collection, the celebrated Okri explores the beauty contained in each one of us—the freedom of our spirit, the child within. He recalls the death of his father, the sacrifices of his mother, the hidden river of Edinburgh, falling in love. He writes about Virgil and Mozambique, about ringing the bell for freedom, the dreams of Calliope and the full moon. He enters the fifth circle, sings of the roses of spring, and aligns the pyramids to the magic stars.

Okri’s shape-shifting depth and dynamism as an artist and thinker is on full display in “Wild.” Echoing Okri’s other recent publications “Tiger Work” and “A Fire in My Head,” “Wild” continues the partnership between the poet, playwright, and novelist and Other Press and continues to cement Okri’s irreplaceable contribution to the larger cultural conversation.

Recent praise for Ben Okri

“The poems collected in ‘A Fire in My Head’ exhibit a decidedly sharpened political edge, too. There are reflections on Boko Haram, the plight of the Rohingya and the death of George Floyd.”
—NEW YORK TIMES

“A master storyteller, Okri prompts readers to reflect on the mistakes of the past and consider the ways in which they are repeated. As ever, Okri channels a voice well worth listening to.”
—PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

“Ben Okri is that rare thing, a literary and social visionary, a writer for whom all three—literature, culture, and vision—are profoundly interwoven.”
—Ali Smith

“Ben Okri is talking about Africa . . . The collection brings together many of Okri’s most critically acclaimed and politically charged poems . . .”
—THE AFRICA REPORT

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Cyber Intrigue and Historical Drama: George Mehok’s Debut Novel ‘Going Dark’

‘Going Dark’ is George Mehok’s new novel. Photo: Amazon

Technothrillers merge high-stakes suspense with cutting-edge technology, creating narratives that captivate readers with their intricate plots and believable scenarios. These stories often revolve around themes like cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, or advanced weaponry, reflecting contemporary fears and ethical dilemmas. Authors meticulously research scientific concepts, ensuring authenticity while weaving in thrilling action and unexpected twists. The genre explores the impact of technology on society, often showcasing characters who navigate complex moral landscapes. With their blend of realism and adrenaline, technothrillers not only entertain but also provoke thought about our rapidly evolving technological landscape and its potential consequences. It’s a gripping exploration of innovation and intrigue.

There’s a new book coming out in November that mixes technothrillers, historical fiction, and terrorism storylines: “Going Dark” by George Mehok. This debut thriller spotlights the dangers of the internet and how the past shapes our future. It is recommended for fans of Dan Brown, Steve Berry, and Stephen Hunter.

George Mehok is an author, technologist, and entrepreneur with a distinguished career in designing software and leading high-performing teams in the financial services, telecommunications, and aerospace industries. An avid storyteller, George weaves his real-world knowledge into gripping narratives, crafting thrilling plots that captivate readers. “Going Dark,” the first in Mehok’s Liberty Unit series, combines his extensive technology background with historical intrigue, presenting a captivating blend of modern-day suspense and revolutionary-era secrets. The release date is November 12, and it is available for pre-order on Amazon. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)

“Going Dark” – When a sinister cyber-terrorist scheme poised to plunge America into unparalleled digital darkness surfaces, Paul Knox, a seasoned cyber forensics expert, finds himself thrust into a clandestine conflict spanning generations.

As Knox examines the intricate and dangerous web of cyber intrigue, he confronts both the mission’s high stakes and his personal demons, including the unwitting involvement of his estranged daughter, Emma. Emma becomes a central figure in a game of digital manipulation, where each move carries the potential to reshape history—and change America forever.

Intertwined with this contemporary narrative is the historical origin story of the Liberty Unit. In 1781, amidst the throes of the American Revolution, John “Jack” Jouett embarks on a perilous journey to deliver crucial encoded messages that hold the power to sway the course of the war and safeguard the life of a future American president.

In an era dominated by the internet and malevolent hackers, insidious threats lurk unseen, while the keys to triumph often lie in the past. Effortlessly blending dual timelines, “Going Dark” is a propulsive deep dive into the clandestine world of hacking and terrorism, underscoring the fragility of a society reliant on technology.

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Reflections on Reality: How ‘Lost in Thought’ Challenges Our Perceptions

‘Lost in Thought’ is Deborah Serra’s new book. Photo: Amazon

Literary fiction explores the complexities of the human experience, often prioritizing character development and thematic depth over plot-driven narratives. The themes are often identity, society, and morality, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives. Another noteworthy work of literary fiction coming out next month is “Lost in Thought” by Deborah Serra. It is available for pre-order on Amazon.

“Lost in Thought” dares us to question our unconscious decisions and ask: Does your mind wander? Where does it go without you? (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)

Deborah Serra was a recipient of the Hawthornden Literary Fellowship and a semifinalist for the Faulkner-Wisdom Creative Writing Award. She has been published in several literary magazines and is an editor with the ethics and short story magazine After Dinner Conversation. She has been nominated for the O. Henry Prize. Deborah has two previously published books, “Primal” (a thriller) and “2 Broads Abroad” (a humorous travel memoir). On assignment, she has written ten TV films and numerous episodes and spent two years on staff. She has worked for Showtime, CBS, NBC, Sony, Fox, and Lifetime. Her new book “Lost in Thought” will be out October 22, 2024.

“Lost in Thought” – Ilana has an enviable job as production manager at the Lyric Opera House, a committed relationship, a cozy Greenwich Village apartment, wonderful friends, and the satisfying feeling of accomplishment. But the questions growing insistent inside her are about to shift the trajectory of her life.

Are Ilana’s questions due to her scientist boyfriend’s research on how people make their decisions, or is she suffering suppressed grief from the death of her mother? Adopted as an infant, she becomes curious about who she would be if she’d grown up with her birth family. Is she truly who she thinks she is? Has she ever freely chosen anything at all?

When Ilana learns that her birth mom owns an Irish pub upstate, well, what could be the harm of stopping in for a drink? Entering the pub has surprising consequences. She’s knocked over in a brawl, and so what begins as curiosity about her origins, evolves into a traumatic shift in her world. After the dust settles, something new takes its place. Something unexpected. Something that looks a lot like freedom.

“Lost in Thought will take you on a fascinating journey between your heart and your mind, your conscious and your unconscious. You won’t stop thinking about what it means for you. What you do next with your own life is up to you…or is it?” —Lawrence Kasanoff, Film Producer True Lies, President, Threshold Entertainment, Production Manager, Platoon, Dirty Dancing

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‘Something Better’: Diane Parrish’s Insightful New Debut Novel

‘Something Better’ by Diane Parrish. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Literary fiction is a genre that emphasizes character development, thematic depth, and stylistic innovation. Unlike genre fiction, which often prioritizes plot and genre conventions, literary fiction explores the complexities of human experience and societal issues through detailed narratives and intricate prose. It often challenges readers with its explorations of morality, identity, and existential questions, encouraging deep reflection and interpretation.  Literary fiction invites readers to engage with both the text and their own perceptions, fostering a profound connection with the human condition.

Among the new books coming out next month in the literary fiction genre, specifically women’s literary fiction and contemporary literary fiction is “Something Better” by Diane Parrish.

Diane Parrish is originally from the Midwest and now lives with her husband and their elderly Corgi in Connecticut, where they raised their two children. Her essays and short fiction have appeared in various literary journals and magazines. “Something Better” is her first novel and will be released October 8, 2024. It is available for pre-order through Amazon and Bookshop. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)  

“Something Better” – Shocking, heartbreaking, funny, and tender, “Something Better,” the accomplished debut by Diane Parrish, will stay with you long after you’ve read the final poignant scene.

The bubble in which Ruth and David live their tidy suburban lives is about to burst. A tragic automobile accident shatters their insular world and sends David into an emotional tailspin. An unexpected job opportunity takes Ruth to the West Coast, waylaying her desire to become a mother and making her increasingly unavailable for David’s needs.

Thrown off balance and alone, David develops a fixation on Annabeth Brady, the daughter of the friends killed in the car crash that fateful night. As he and Ruth drift further apart, each must decide if they will remain true to their vows, or what it might mean to search for something better.

Parrish pulls back the facade of the carefully cultivated suburbs with luscious prose infused with flashes of humor and insight, as she quietly questions our notions of forgiveness and faith. “Something Better” ushers a sparkling new talent onto the literary landscape.

“Something Better gently explores grief in its many forms. Infused with keen insight, empathy into our human foibles, and wisdom about grace and forgiveness, Diane Parrish’s deft prose offers a timely reminder that it’s never too late to heal, if only we can take the first step.”
—Kristin Koval,author of the novel “Penitence”

“Diane Parrish beautifully constructs a world where things left unsaid create a pathway to redemption.”
— Susan Aronson, writer, producer, Emmy Award winner

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‘Ruby & Onyx’: A Comprehensive Review of Summer Grace’s Latest Work

‘Ruby & Onyx’ is a coming of age fantasy novel by Summer Grace.

Summer Grace is a debut author, with “Ruby & Onyx” as the first part of a series. Summer is passionate about writing stories that inspire as much as they entertain, and she hopes that this book will inspire more women to believe in themselves and embrace their inner strength. (Amazon, 2024)

“Ruby & Onyx” – Trapped in the remote village of Carcera, Radya dreams of an impossible life: a life outside of the magical barrier, a life of love and adventure, and a life free from the menacing red eyes haunting her nightmares. Those delusions are just dreams, until those red eyes turn corporeal and reveal a fate foretold from ages past. Forced to reckon with an arranged marriage to the Prince of Mendacia, who irritates her as often as he quickens her pulse, Radya must navigate an unfamiliar world of magic, lies, and deception. The closer she gets to the truth, the more people get hurt. Each revelation comes at cost, threatening to ignite a war between Kingdoms and lovers. Will Radya choose this new life, despite the profound repercussions? Or will she follow her dreams, which connect her to yet another life unknown?

Review:
The story begins with Radya noticing a strange man on the other side of the barrier that surrounds the small village where she grew up. She knows he shouldn’t be there and he’s asking too many questions and without any warning, he rushes the barrier, only to be reduced to ashes. This experience haunts here and one day, out of nowhere, she is whisked away to a castle in a faraway land and given an ultimatum. Within 30 days, she must decide if she wants to go through with an arranged marriage or risk war among the neighboring kingdoms. The people she thought she knew turn against her and she can’t trust what she sees and hears. Regardless of what she chooses, her life will never be the same.

“Ruby & Onyx” is a captivating contemporary romance that examines the complexities of love and identity. The prose is both haunting and lyrical, immersing readers in the characters’ emotional landscapes: “Despite how annoying he is, I can’t help but notice his beauty. But even the scales of a snake’s skin can be alluring.” Radya’s journey of self-discovery and healing is portrayed with depth and nuance, while the rich character development and vivid descriptions of the setting enhance the overall reading experience. The author skillfully balances moments of intense drama with lighter, more intimate scenes, ensuring a well-rounded narrative that resonates on multiple levels. Despite being brief, the romantic scenes are intense without being graphic or vulgar.

Overall, “Ruby & Onyx” is a beautifully crafted tale that explores themes of love, loss, and self- discovery. Whether you’re drawn to stories of strong-willed heroines or tales of love set against a backdrop of danger and intrigue, this book will not disappoint. It’s a must-read for fans of contemporary romance who appreciate a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is romantically fulfilling.

“Before I can run, before I can stop what’s about to happen, our hands meet. The second they do, an explosion of sound and color booms around us, and the room melts into a blur like watercolors washing away.”

*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.