Tag: new books

Book review: ‘Meru’ by S.B. Divya

‘Meru’ is the new science fiction novel by S.B. Divya. Photo: Amazon

S.B. Divya is the Hugo and Nebula nominated author of “Meru,” “Machinehood,” “Runtime,” and “Contingency Plans For the Apocalypse and Other Possible Situations.” Her short stories have appeared in numerous magazines and anthologies, and she was the co-editor of Escape Pod, the weekly science fiction podcast, from 2017-2022. Divya holds degrees in Computational Neuroscience and Signal Processing, and she worked for twenty years as an electrical engineer before becoming an author. In her new book “Meru,” one woman and her pilot are about to change the future of the species in an epic space opera about aspiration, compassion, and redemption. A reading sample is available on Amazon. (Amazon, 2023)

“Meru” – For five centuries, human life has been restricted to Earth, while posthuman descendants called alloys freely explore the galaxy. When the Earthlike planet of Meru is discovered, two unlikely companions venture forth to test the habitability of this unoccupied new world and the future of human-alloy relations. For Jayanthi, the adopted human child of alloy parents, it is an opportunity to rectify the ancient reputation of her species as avaricious and destructive, and to give humanity a new place in the universe. For Vaha, Jayanthi’s alloy pilot, it is a daunting yet irresistible adventure to find success as an individual. As the journey challenges their resolve in unexpected ways, the two form a bond that only deepens with their time alone on Meru. How can Jayanthi succeed at freeing humanity from its past when she and Vaha have been set up to fail? Against all odds, hope is human, too.

The story takes place in the far, far future when humans, whose numbers have dwindled, live in colonies on Earth and their robot/AI descendants called ‘alloys’ are the next form of intelligent life. This concept in itself is what stands out because of the rapid rise in AI in recent years. Combined with science fiction, space exploration, and genetic engineering, it makes for a complex saga filled with technology, friendships, and the ever increasing question of what it means to be human. There are so many types of technologies introduced, like the bodym, the body’s information network, and an incarn, the temporary body that alloys use while on Earth, that at times it is hard to focus on the story itself. While the use of the pronouns zie/zir is commendable, it can be distracting until/unless the reader gets used to them. The language, while occasionally tech-heavy, is relatively easy to understand and the story is mainly dialogue driven and switches narration between Jayanthi and Vaha. ‘Meru’ is an impressive work of science fiction complete with space travel, world building, exploration of the human condition in the face of insurmountable challenges, and even an interspecies romance. Labeled as The Alloy Era Book 1, the story will likely continue, and is recommended for readers who appreciate books on genetic engineering, space exploration, and science fiction. It is certainly an interesting work of science fiction.

“No amount of grief and rage could overcome a lifetime of conditioning. Do the least amount of harm to every form of consciousness, alive or not. A planet might not think and feel, but it had a place in the universe. It deserved respect and kindness, especially from a puny thing like her, whose survival depended upon it.”

*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: ‘Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future’ by Marvin Merritt II

”Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future’ is the new science fiction thriller by Marvin Merritt II. Photo: Marvin Merritt II, used with permission.

One of my favorite book genres is science fiction, especially when computers and aliens are involved in one way or another; that is just the sci-fi geek in me. This new release from Marvin Merritt II caught my attention: “Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future.” The first chapter is titled ‘The Unexplained Sky’ and begins as the night sky in San Diego, California is lighted with “a stunning array of lights, transforming the city into a celestial canvas of vivid colors.” You can read a sample on Amazon. Sounds intriguing? Here is more information about this exciting new science fiction thriller.

Marvin Merritt II is a seasoned Navy veteran and new author from Georgia. With over 20 years of service and multiple deployments, he has received numerous accolades and awards for his dedication and commitment to serving his country. Marvin’s writing often delves into themes of resilience, hope, and the power of human connection. He skillfully blends suspense, mystery, and heartwarming moments to create stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats while touching their hearts. In his latest book, “Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future,” Marvin showcases his talent for weaving thrilling tales that captivate readers. (Marvin Merritt II, 2023)

“Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future” is an enthralling sci-fi novel that transports readers through time and space. As strange objects appear in the sky, a self-loading internet app spreads worldwide, sparking wonder and mystery among the population. Noah, a brilliant scientist specializing in Computational Linguistics, leads a team that discovers the true nature of the network – a connection to humans 1,000 years in the future. Deciphering encrypted messages, the team learns of an impending disaster that threatens the Earth, putting the fate of humanity in their hands. As the countdown to the disaster begins, governments worldwide race to protect their citizens while people come together to show extraordinary displays of compassion and generosity. Meanwhile, Noah, Aria, Dr. Toliver, and their team race against the clock to prevent the catastrophe, navigating through dangerous obstacles and evading powerful organizations seeking to exploit their discoveries for their gain.

“Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future” is a thought-provoking and suspenseful novel that delves into our responsibility for our present and future. The book is filled with unexpected twists, heart-pounding action, and intrigue, keeping readers on edge until the final page.

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New book release: ‘Good Night, Irene’ by Luis Alberto Urrea

‘Good Night, Irene’ is the new novel by Luis Alberto Urrea. Photo: Amazon

Luis Alberto Urrea, a 2005 Pulitzer Prize finalist for nonfiction and member of the Latino Literature Hall of Fame, is a prolific and acclaimed writer who uses his dual-culture life experiences to explore greater themes of love, loss, and triumph. Winner of a Lannan Literary Award and Christopher Award, he is also the recipient of an American Book Award, the Kiriyama Prize, the National Hispanic Cultural Center’s Literary Award, a Western States Book Award, a Colorado Book Award, an Edgar Award, and a citation of excellence from the American Library Association. A professor of creative writing at the University of Illinois – Chicago, he is a member of the Latino Literary Hall of Fame and has won numerous awards for his poetry, fiction, and essays. His new book “Good Night, Irene” asks the question: what if a friendship forged on the front lines of war defines a life forever?” It is an epic based on the magnificent and true story of courageous Red Cross women. (Amazon, 2023)

“Good Night, Irene” – In 1943, Irene Woodward abandons an abusive fiancé in New York to enlist with the Red Cross and head to Europe. She makes fast friends in training with Dorothy Dunford, a towering Midwesterner with a ferocious wit. Together they are part of an elite group of women, nicknamed Donut Dollies, who command military vehicles called Clubmobiles at the front line, providing camaraderie and a taste of home that may be the only solace before troops head into battle.

After D-Day, these two intrepid friends join the Allied soldiers streaming into France. Their time in Europe will see them embroiled in danger, from the Battle of the Bulge to the liberation of Buchenwald. Through her friendship with Dorothy and a love affair with a courageous American fighter pilot named Hans, Irene learns to trust again. Her most fervent hope, which becomes more precarious by the day, is for all three of them to survive the war intact. Taking as inspiration his mother’s own Red Cross service, Luis Alberto Urrea has delivered an overlooked story of women’s heroism in World War II.

New book release: ‘Retribution’ by Robert McCaw

‘Retribution,’ the fifth book in the Koa Kane Hawaiian Mystery series, will be out June 6, 2023. Photo: Amazon

Robert McCaw grew up in a military family, traveling the world. He is a graduate of Georgetown University, served as a U.S. Army lieutenant, and earned a law degree from the University of Virginia. Having lived on the Big Island of Hawaii, McCaw’ s writing is imbued by his more than 20-year love affair with this Pacific paradise. In his new book “Retribution,” the fifth in the Koa Kane Hawaiian Mystery Series, Chief Detective Koa Kane wonders is he might be the real target as people around him come under attack. It will be released June 6, 2023. Book review coming soon. (Amazon, 2023)

“Retribution”
In the back alley of a bar on Hawaii Island, a young man is found stabbed to death. When Hilo Chief Detective Koa Kane begins investigating the crime, the murder weapon is recovered only a few feet away from the body. Crime scene technicians find fingerprints on the knife and they are a perfect match for Koa’s younger brother, Ikaika.

As the brothers scramble to prove Ikaika’ s innocence, another crime sends shockwaves through the Hilo police force. A sniper tries to take out Makanui, Koa’ s closest colleague. As Koa tries to figure out whether these crimes are linked, the sinister force continues their killing spree, threatening Koa and his loved ones at every turn.

Could Koa be the real target? If so, who is behind this trail of retribution? With his own secret criminal past, Koa confronts an all-out offensive against those closest to him and his police force to which he has devoted his life. As the bodies pile up, Koa finds himself the ultimate target of a ruthless adversary and must risk it all to survive.

While all the novels in the Koa Kane Hawaiian Mystery Series stand on their own and can be read in any order, the publication sequence is:

“Death of a Messenger”
“Off the Grid”
“Fire and Vengeance”
“Treachery Times Two”
“Retribution”

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New book release: ‘Hold On To Your Lady Or Hold On To Your Coat’ by Terrance Tamon

‘Hold On To Your Lady Or Hold On To Your Coat’ is the new book by Terrance Tamon. Photo: Google

Terrance Tamon was born in Spartanburg SC the oldest of three boys and raised in a single-parent household with his mother. He has four daughters and one son, but the oldest passed away in 2018. Writing is something he loves to do and most of the time he does it to take his mind away from the world. In his first adult book, “Hold On to Your Lady or Hold On to Your Coat,” a chance encounter with a woman catches Robert off guard and leaves him confused and unsure of himself. It is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and Lulu. (Terrance Tamon, 2023)

“Hold On to Your Lady or Hold On to Your Coat” – Robert had been through it all when it came to relationships. At 30 years old, he knew all too well the heartache of breakups and the pain of a broken heart. It had left him feeling regretful and unable to trust. As a result, he had developed a cold heart and was no longer interested in pursuing any romantic relationships.

On one particular day, Robert was getting ready to leave his apartment when his friend and partner, Damian, urged him to come out and enjoy life. Damian was the type of friend everyone wished they had – caring, supportive, and always pushing his friends to be the best version of themselves, but when it came to women, Robert was not interested in listening to Damian. His experiences with relationships had left him with a deep sense of cynicism, and he saw no reason to put himself through the pain and heartbreak again. He grabbed his coat and prepared to leave, a physical reminder to himself that life was cold and that he needed to protect himself from the inevitable disappointments that come with relationships.

Despite his reservations, fate had other plans for Robert. After a chance encounter with a woman, he did not know if he should hold on to her or keep holding on to his coat. She had a way of making him feel alive again, like he was capable of experiencing happiness once more but at the same time, he was scared. He did not know if he was ready to open up and let someone in again.

Robert’s experiences are all too familiar to many of us. The pain of a broken heart can be so deep and profound that it can leave us feeling cynical and unwilling to open ourselves up to love again. Sometimes, life has a way of surprising us. Even when we are not looking for love, it can find us in unexpected ways.

Perhaps the lesson that Robert learned is that, no matter how much we try to protect ourselves, life will always find a way to surprise us. It is up to us to decide whether we are willing to take the risk and open ourselves up to the possibility of love, or continue to hold on to our coats, protecting ourselves from the unknown.

In the end, Robert’s story is a reminder that even when we think we have everything figured out, life can still surprise us. It is up to us to be open to those surprises and to take a chance on love, even when it seems scary or uncertain because in the end, the rewards of love are always worth the risk.

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Book review: ‘Daddy’s Girl’ by Michael Schnabel

‘Daddy’s Girl’ by Michael Schnabel is a memoir about the challenges and struggles of parenting. Photo: Amazon

Michael Schnabel is an author and a graduate of Northern State University. Michael developed his passion for writing and storytelling during his thirty-year career at Bristol-Myers Squibb. He lives in Overland Park, Kansas with his wife, and when not spending time with family, you can find him tending to his 26-acre tree farm. His first book, “Daddy’s Girl,” is a memoir about the challenges and struggles of parenting through a medical crisis. (Amazon, 2023)

“Daddy’s Girl” – How does a young mother overcome an 8% chance of living to raise her newborn son? She becomes a warrior and provides hope for others. This is the story of a father, his daughter, and the deadly battle she won. In each person’s life there are events that forever change their course. Twenty-seven year old Stephanie experienced two of these events in fourteen days; the birth of her only child and the discovery that she might now live long enough to raise him. She is haunted by the thought that this baby will only know her through pictures, until she makes that thought her motivation to survive. Michael Schnabel, Stephanie’s father, tells the story of survival and how three generations of a family respond to crisis. It begins with the happy news that Stephanie is pregnant but well into her second trimester, she starts feeling sick. The narrative switches back and forth between the present, Stephanie’s ordeal, and the past, as Michael shares parenting stories and the lessons he learned along the way. Some of the chapters contain ‘life lessons’ like “The obstacles people face in life do not define them, but the way they deal with them might.” In the Epilogue, he shares what they as a family learned to do during a medical challenge, including the importance of having a team mentality, seeking out medical experts according to the disease you are fighting, taking it one day at a time, and celebrating victories, no matter how small.

As the English poet John Donne famously wrote, ‘No man is an island, entire of itself,’ so it is when facing a major medical diagnosis. In Stephanie’s case, the joy she and her husband experienced with the birth of their son Caden came with a cancer diagnosis. Family and friends surrounded them with the love and support necessary to see this challenge through. Told through the point of view of her father Michael, it also chronicles a parent’s difficult journey as he watches their daughter struggle on. The language is simple enough to make this an easy read but it comes with a trigger warning: some of the material is somber and difficult to get through but readers are rewarded with a happy ending. Even though the subject of religion comes up, it does not come across as preachy and instead, Michael focuses on a ‘higher power’ and the importance of surrounding yourself with loving people, doing good for others, and being at peace. “Daddy’s Girl” is the story one woman’s difficult journey and contains a wide range of emotions while reinforcing the validity of family, hope, miracles, and faith. It is recommended for fans of memoirs, survival biographies, and the Chicken Soup for the Soul series of books.

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

Rating: 3 out of 5.

New book release: ‘Cats of Meow City’ by Anif Innab

‘Cats of Meow City: The Untold Stories of Felines in the City’ is the new book by Anif Innab that is perfect for cat lovers everywhere. Photo: Amazon

If you are a cat person and love cats, this new book might be of interest to you:

“Cats of Meow City: The Untold Stories of Felines in the City” by Anif Innab is a captivating and heartwarming book that will take you on a journey through the streets of Meow City, a feline metropolis unlike any other. This book shares the incredible and diverse stories of cats from all walks of life, from doctors to poets, street cats to skaters, the elderly to the young and published by KBook Publishing.

Through a series of interviews, the author has captured the triumphs and tragedies, hopes and heartbreaks, and the resilience of the cats of Meow City. With each story, you will gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a cat in this vibrant and bustling city.

Filled with stunning illustrations and photographs, this book offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and diversity of this feline city. This book is “purrrfect” for cat lovers of all ages who want to explore the lives of these amazing creatures and the unique culture of Meow City. So, pick up a copy and join the author on this unforgettable journey through the streets of Meow City.

Courtesy photo, used with permission.

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Book review: ‘Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage’ by Kanchan Bhaskar

‘Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage’ is Kanchan Bhaskar new memoir. Photo: Amazon

Kanchan Bhaskar was born and brought up in New Delhi, India. She holds a master’s degree in social work from Delhi University and a postgraduate certificate in personnel management and industrial relations. She moved to the US in 2000. She works in the corporate world, mentoring, counselling, and coaching employees at all levels in the industry. She is also now a certified advocate for domestic violence victims in the state of Illinois and is a volunteer speaker, mentor, and coach for victims and survivors. Her new book “Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage” is an inspiring memoir of a woman who reclaims her power and finds the strength to leave an abusive relationship. (Kanchan Bhaskar, 2023)

“Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage” – Raised by two loving parents in New Delhi, India, Kanchan Bhaskar has always been taught that marriage means companionship, tenderness, and mutual respect—so when she enters into an arranged marriage, this is the kind of partnership she anticipates with her new, seemingly wonderful, husband. The story is told in chronological order and begins in 1980-1981 when, as a new wife, Kanchan is starting a new life with her new husband and his family, all strangers to her, but is still naively hopeful that it will be full of wonder and romance. She quickly discovers that his warmth is deceptive—that the man beneath the bright, charming façade is actually a narcissistic, alcoholic, and violent man. Kanchan pleads with her husband to seek help for his issues, but he refuses. Trapped in a nightmare, and now with children to protect, she tries numerous times to leave him but Indian law is not on her side. It is not until many years later, when the family of five moves from India to the United States, that Kanchan is presented with a real opportunity to leave him—and she takes it. It is divided into eighteen chapters, including A Love Story, My Safe Haven, and Coming Together.

Kanchan Bhaskar’s memoir is not just about domestic abuse. In the Preface, she writes that “the story does not stop with gaining my freedom but describes my continuing journey on the path of spirituality.” The abuse she endured is just one part of her story; the whole is more about her personal journey to self reliance. She perseveres against all odds and it does not define who she is now. The abuse details, while disturbing, are brief and not too graphic, just enough to shed light on her tragic experiences. It is always interesting to learn about other cultures, in this case, Indian culture, especially the process of selecting a partner in an arranged marriage. This proves the universality of the human condition regardless of race or culture. The language is easy to understand and often poetic “I felt like a free bird, seeing myself as a white swan gliding high in the infinite sky – who had no boundaries, no limits, no shackles, no fear, no apprehensions…” With a story that flows easily through the pages, readers are witness to her journey from abuse to spiritual awakening. “Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage” is an empowering story of a woman who even during her bleakest moments, found the strength to move on. It is recommended for readers who enjoy inspirational memoirs by strong women.

“I wish there was one formula for all of us, but there isn’t. The formula that worked for me and liberated me was essentially powered by my three strong beliefs, my tools, and my mantras. Belief in self. Belief in Universe. Belief in spirituality.”

*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.

Excerpt available.

New book release: ‘Airbnb 99 Essential Message Templates’ by Message Magic

‘Airbnb 99 Essential Message Templates’ is a resource guide for readers in the Airbnb business. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Are you an Airbnb host who wants to offer exceptional guest experiences and stand out among millions of listings on the platform? If so, “Airbnb 99+ Essential Message Templates” by Message Magic is the solution. (Message Magic, 2023)

Not only will you receive comprehensive guidance and practical advice for improving your communication skills and enhancing the guest experience, but you will also receive an exclusive offer included in the book. This offer is a $50 coupon to optimize your Airbnb listing with AirbnbSEO.com. This valuable bonus will help you further enhance your Airbnb presence and attract more bookings, making it an even more valuable investment for any serious host.

Our pre-written message templates allow you to save time and effort while ensuring consistency, professionalism, accuracy, and personalization for your guests. You can even use them for direct bookings via personal websites and social networks.

Effective communication is crucial for building trust, clarifying expectations, handling issues, and earning positive reviews. With “Airbnb 99+ Essential Message Templates,” you can provide your guests with a memorable and hassle-free experience while maximizing your profits. Our customizable message templates have been proven to increase bookings, boost guest satisfaction, handle any complaints professionally, and help you stand out from the competition.

Do not let your listing get lost in the sea of Airbnb properties. Take your communication with guests to the next level with our book and reap numerous benefits, including streamlining your messaging process, and ensuring consistency, professionalism, accuracy, and personalization. Increase your bookings, boost guest satisfaction, handle any complaints professionally, and stand out from the competition.

Order now and experience the results for yourself!

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New book release: ‘The Family Bones’ by Elle Marr

‘The Family Bones’ is the new suspense thriller from Elle Marr. Photo: Amazon

Elle Marr is the #1 Amazon Charts bestselling author of “Strangers We Know,” “Lies We Bury,” and “The Missing Sister.” Originally from Sacramento, she graduated from UC San Diego before moving to France, where she earned a master’s degree from the Sorbonne University in Paris. In her terrifying new novel “The Family Bones,” a young woman plunges into her family’s shadowy legacy. (Amazon, 2023)

“The Family Bones” – What makes a psychopath? Psychology student Olivia Eriksen’s family is notorious among true-crime buffs. Faced with a legacy of psychopathy that spans generations, Olivia has spent much of her academic life trying to answer one chilling question: Nature or nurture? Although she has kept a safe distance from her blood relatives for years, Olivia agrees to attend a weekend reunion. After all, her fiancé is eager to meet his future in-laws, and the gathering may give her a chance to interview her elusive grandfather about the family traits.

But nothing is ever peaceful among the Eriksens for long. Olivia’s favorite cousin is found dead in a nearby lake. Then another family member disappears. As a violent storm isolates the group further, Olivia’s fears rise faster than the river and an uninvited guest is about to join the party. True-crime podcaster Birdie Tan has uncovered a disturbing mystery in her latest investigation—and she is following it right to the Eriksens’ mountain resort. There is a deadly twist in the family plot that even Olivia does not see coming.