daughter of mars

Daughter of Mars by Alden Globe

Reviewed by Diana Coyle

In “Daughter of Mars” by Alden Globe, the author takes us on a journey of realization and redemption. You see, Rave Map, the world’s greatest engineer, just lost her nephew. The family isn’t quite certain what happened, but will stop at nothing to find the cause of his death that no one could prevent. When the family tells Rave that they realize the back pain Tyler has been experiencing from a recent bicycle accident has caused him to buy some cheap knockoff pain pills off the black market, Rave sets out for redemption for her family and all the families who are losing relatives at an alarming rate due to toxic knockoff pills being sold on the web.  Purchase Here.

Part of the plan with a close friend and confidant, Mait, is to infiltrate the illegal drug markets that are producing these pills and selling them at low costs to everyone. They slowly start taking some of China’s drug labs down to help slow down their production of these illicit pills. They then move to Mexico, with the same agenda. No matter how difficult the task at hand may be for them, they put their lives on the line to stop as many of the pills from making it onto the black market. The only problem is, how can they stop China from setting up a drug club on Mars where if you can afford to buy a ticket, you can party with all the drugs you want?

I have to say that this story was extremely unique in storyline for me. The first thing that I want to mention is the author based this story loosely on the fact that he and his family lost their college age daughter because she took a fake Xanax that had a mix of toxic opioids in it. Her classmate gave it to her without realizing that it would be the very last time she saw her alive. When I found out the author’s emotional drive to write this story, I had to commend Mr. Globe for diving into a topic that would cause many mixed emotions for him while he extensively researched the topic of toxic black market drugs.

When he created Rave Maps, I liked her immediately because she seemed like a woman who knew what she wanted and would stop at nothing to achieve it. She was strong willed and she was the perfect character to team up with, Mait, her best friend and another no nonsense type of woman. Both of them have had military training, so when they set out to bring individual drug labs down in both China and Mexico, I figured they knew what they were both getting themselves into. These two women set out on dangerous missions to stop as much toxic drug production as they could and in the process they stopped at nothing to achieve this goal.

The only thing that I couldn’t seem to accept was that China was wanting to set up drug clubs on Mars, so participants that had millions of dollars to spend to travel to Mars, could party all they wanted there with any drugs they wanted to. Unbeknownst to the travelers, all the drugs were toxic and they very well wouldn’t be making the return trip back to the US. The author wrote this as a bit of a futuristic story set in 2029, so considering the timeframe isn’t that far off, I just couldn’t see this being something that would happen in the next four years. Other readers might challenge me on this, but for me it just wasn’t believable.

Overall, “Daughter of Mars” by Alden Globe is one story that will have you walking away thinking about the true statistical death rate these toxic drugs cause on innocent victims. Although it’s fictional, the loosely based factual storyline makes readers stop and want to take action themselves, no matter how small that action might be, to save someone’s life from being another statistic.

Down and Out in the River City

Down and Out in the River City by Wm. Stage

Reviewed by Rahul Gaur

How many of you remember what happened on September 15, 2017? Jason Stockley, a white former police officer, was found not guilty of first-degree murder for the shooting of a black man, Anthony Lamar Smith. This decision led to protests in St. Louis, some of which became violent. Wm. Stage picked this incident and beautifully weaved a story about life in St. Louis and how people deal with tough situations like protests, poverty, homeless encampments, murder, and addiction.  Purchase Here.

“The crowd outside the Civil Courts building surged with anger. Fists raised, voices echoed off the stone walls, and the tension felt like it could shatter the night.” This gripping opening scene from Down and Out in the River City throws readers into the middle of a protest, capturing the raw emotions of people demanding justice. The book follows the protagonist, Francis, a process server in St. Louis, as he navigates the aftermath of a controversial court verdict. He finds himself caught in the middle of the chaos when he exits the Civil Courts building and witnesses the escalating tension between protesters and police. As the story unfolds, Francis becomes entangled in the lives of various characters affected by the verdict and the ensuing turmoil. He encounters activists, militants, and opportunists, all driven by a sense of injustice and a desire for change. The story explores issues like racial tension, police violence, and the fight for fairness.

Wm. Stage has skillfully developed the characters in the book through a combination of detailed descriptions, authentic dialogue, and the exploration of their internal conflicts and motivations. For example, Francis represents a complex, morally ambiguous character. Or Jacob, despite his privileged upbringing, had to navigate the complexities of adolescence due to his speech challenge. Each character is given a distinct voice and personality. Readers would be able to visualize them and understand their backgrounds, and this background information helps them understand their motivations and the challenges they face.

The dialogue in the book is thoughtful and naturalistic. Through their conversations, characters accurately reveal their personalities, relationships, and conflicts. For instance, the interactions between Francis and Cleo are filled with tension and camaraderie, showcasing their complex friendship. Or a candid conversation between a couple who have been married for twenty-four years, highlighting their ability to communicate openly about their feelings and experiences.

Mr. Stage’s writing feels real and honest with documentary-like precision. He has successfully captured the essence of St. Louis, and the mix of reality with fantasy is flawless. One of the book’s strengths is its ability to balance action with introspection. The book doesn’t shy away from challenging perspectives. So, some readers might feel uncomfortable with its take on race and policing. But it’s powerful because it makes us think about things we usually try to ignore. For example, Judge Wilson’s inflammatory statement that “an urban heroin dealer not in possession of a firearm would be an anomaly” serves as a stark example of systemic racial stereotyping. He doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable realities, presenting a raw, unfiltered view of urban social dynamics.

As I closed the last page of Down and Out in the River City, I couldn’t stop thinking about its characters and their struggles. This book is more than a story. It’s a wake-up call about inequality and the systems that keep people trapped. It makes readers think about justice and fairness. It also shows the power of relationships to help people survive tough times. If you’re ready for a story that’s raw, emotional, and eye-opening, Down and Out in the River City is one you won’t forget.

 

 

 

Strangers in Crime

Strangers in Crime: An Opposites Attract, Forbidden Romance between a Bad Boy and a Cop based in Contemporary Scotland (Scottish Investigators: Glasgow Prequel Novella) by Shana Frost

Reviewed by Michaela Gordoni

Strangers in Crime is a brief, fiery romance and crime novel that focuses on Cheryl, a hardcore Scottish police officer with a soft spot for men who put themselves in harm’s way for a good cause. One night when she tries to grab a bite at a local bar, she encounters a strange man harassing a woman. He’s putting up a fight, and Cheryl’s ready for it, but when the drop-dead stunner, Anthony Ricci, steps in—she accepts the help. She can hardly help the passion that ensues, thinking there wouldn’t be much consequence. But as luck would have it, Anthony Ricci isn’t who she thought he is.  Purchase Here.

This novel has a great opening filled with action. It demonstrates Cheryl’s toughness and serves as a great introduction to Cheryl’s character, giving the reader a good idea of what she’s like. Author Shana Frost gives her star character a lot of unique appeal, as she’s nearly 6 feet tall, beautiful, and wouldn’t hesitate to kick a bad guy in the face if the moment called for it. The same goes for her leading man, Anthony Ricci. He just wants to protect women against people who use them. Though he hasn’t always been on the right side of the law, it is obvious that he was raised right and cares deeply about helping innocent victims—like Cheryl does.

Readers will find that Shana Frost displays many examples of excellent worldbuilding to create very real-feeling and well-imagined settings. For example, she writes, “She stepped into the smell of musk and malt mixed with sticky wooden floor and too many bodies clustered together. Music pounded in her ears, and the people crowded her in.” These few imaginative words are all that’s needed for the reader to get a good picture of a bar that Cheryl steps into. Frost’s story pacing is also very clever—every time there is a slow moment, a moment filled with action follows. She frequently flicks between Cheryl and Anthony’s perspectives, which makes the story feel all the more immersive to its readers—they’ll never be bored.

Though there are many positive elements at play in this novel, there are occasional pieces of dialogue that tempt to shake the reader out of the story’s imagined reality, as they simply sound like things that would be highly unusual to hear in real life. And though the first 16 pages start off strong—they’re great, in fact—they quickly become overshadowed by a hasty, thick, and syrupy sex scene that seems to take away from the serious issue at hand, which readers could previously sense coming.

The novel is very brief and leaves its readers at a cliffhanger, but this is the entire design. It’s not meant to satisfy. It’s meant to create a taste for more, and I think that Shana Frost has accomplished that. It’s not all a tease, though, as Frost includes a QR code that sends readers to a version of the book with extended chapters. Another consolation is a bonus chapter for another novel, which introduces a new compelling character.

Overall, this is an exciting crime and romance novel with a plot twist that some readers may find entertaining. The pacing, structure, and characters were created with care.

 

The Umbrella Maker's Son

The Umbrella Maker’s Son by Tod Lending

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton

The Umbrella Maker’s Son is a painful story about Reuven, a Polish Jew, and his family. Reuven worked in his father’s umbrella shop. He was very much in love with Zelda. Life seemed good until one day it all changed. Poland was invaded by the Nazis, and it did not take long for them to take over Krakow where Reuven and his family lived. Zelda and her family left Krakow to stay with relatives. Each day, everything got worse. The Nazis took over the umbrella shop and demanded that Reuven and his father do manual labor by helping to rebuild the railroad tracks. Reuven, at times, looked at his father’s reactions to the Nazis as weakness. As time passed, he changed his mind and knew it was really strength. Purchase Here.

Reuven’s father committed a crime, and he knew his family must leave before the Nazis find out what he did. Their dangerous journey begins as they try to flee.

Reuven ends up working for a farmer. The farmer is happy to have him helping with the farm; however, for the farmer’s wife it is a different story.  Reuven must make another decision.

What is really amazing is Reuven’s determination to find Zelda.

Will Reuven find Zelda? Will they all survive?

I loved this author’s writing style. His descriptive writing is magical and filled with so much clarity and detail when describing someone or something. It is obvious the author did a great deal of research to write this book.

This story will fill you with many emotions. We have all read many true stories about the attack of the Nazis and how the Polish Jews suffered. Even though this story is fiction, the terrible atrocities about what happened to the Jews during WWII are portrayed in a superb manner.  If I had to sum up this story about Reuven’s family in one word, it would come down to “resilience”. The Umbrella Maker’s Son is not only a story about the terrible things that happened to the Polish Jews, but it is also a love story.

This book is filled with memorable characters who each play an important role. One other thing…be sure to have some tissues by your side as you read this book because many parts of the book will bring tears to your eyes.

The Umbrella Maker’s Son is a fascinating and memorable read!

 

Unicorns Can Be Deadly

Unicorns Can Be Deadly (A Discount Detective Mystery) by Charlotte Stuart

Reviewed by Daniel Ryan Johnson

Unicorns Can Be Deadly is an interesting twist on a classic mystery novel. The book is centered around a private detective agency that offers low rates to provide investigative services to people on a budget. While the story does have a central mystery that propels the narrative forward, the true focus of the book is on the myriad issues faced by the homeless population in Seattle and the lack of resources to address these complicated problems.  Purchase Here.

Author Charlotte Stuart jumps right into the action with the first sentence of the book introducing a young boy running for his life. Fortunately, this boy crosses paths with Cameron Chandler, a private investigator and single mother who sees him in danger and acts to protect him. This spontaneous action pulls Cameron and her investigative partner Yuri into a search for a missing homeless woman named Bess. Their inquiries bring them face-to-face with the homeless population of the city and force them to confront the many challenges faced by this community.

Charlotte Stuart does a great job of posing difficult questions about serious issues without weighing down the tone of the book. She weaves many moments of levity into the story while maintaining respect for the community she is writing about and the problems they are confronted with on a daily basis.

As the investigators in the story search for the missing homeless woman, they end up taking on several other cases revolving around the homeless community, with each case revealing additional issues that we as a society are not doing enough to address. While Unicorns Can Be Deadly highlights critical problems, Stuart does not preach an agenda but simply poses questions to the reader as food for thought.

Overall, Unicorns Can Be Deadly is an enjoyable and quick read. The plot keeps the reader engaged and keeps you turning the pages to find answers to the mysteries our investigative protagonist is trying to unravel. The characters are all well-defined and the heroes are quite likable making it easy to root for them. Unicorns Can Be Deadly is the 5th book in the Discount Detective Mystery series, and as my introduction to the characters, I look forward to going back and exploring their previous adventures while waiting to see what the author has planned for them next.

Wisdom and the Baobab Tree

Wisdom and the Baobab Tree by Edward R. McMahon

Reviewed by Daniel Ryan Johnson

Wisdom and the Baobab Tree is a story set in a foreign context that manages to hit close to home for readers in the United States, as well as readers throughout various other parts of the world. Set in the fictional African country of Kombonia, the book explores the struggle of a country to fully embrace democracy. While the nation has been a democracy in name for a few decades when the book begins, true democratic elections have never taken place.  Purchase Here.

Much of the story is told through the eyes of American Adam Edwards, who is in the country working for the Center for Democratic Progress, an independent organization with funding from the U.S. government. The purpose of his mission in Kombonia is to help ensure the elections coming at the end of the year are fair and democratic. He is tasked with sharing the knowledge gained by the U.S. and other nations in their experience with democracy to help create a framework for a true democracy to succeed in Kombonia.

While Wisdom and the Baobab Tree portrays a nation that is just beginning its democratic journey, many of the challenges this fledgling democracy faces reflect issues present in U.S. politics, as well as other nations with a long democratic history. Political violence, threats to a peaceful transfer of power, distrust in the electoral process, election interference, and a deep divide between different population groups are key issues addressed throughout the book that many democracies throughout the world are facing today.

When drawing these parallels between the challenges regarding democracy in Kombonia and the United States, author Edward R. McMahon takes several different approaches. At some points in the book, these similarities are subtly hinted at, while, at other times, he clearly connects the dots for the reader.

While Wisdom and the Baobab Tree shows how challenging it can be to build and maintain a democracy, especially in times where trust in the media and the information we receive is incredibly low, the overall tone of the book is a hopeful one. It shows that while there will always be struggles along the way, there is a path forward, that the checks and balances of the democratic system are necessary to ensure human rights, and that the system must constantly be reevaluated to ensure it works for the modern age.

Girl on Fire

Girl on Fire by Eden Hart

Reviewed by Lily Andrews

The first book in Eden Hart’s dystopian adventure epic, “Girl on Fire,” centers on a young girl who battles a fatal disease and whose world almost falls apart when a deadly fever begins claiming thousands of lives, including people who matter to her.   Purchase Here.

According to Kassia’s most recent diagnosis, her myeloid leukemia, which was in the most aggressive stage, was becoming worse. As her family ruminated on her sickness on Thanksgiving night, they were stunned by the most spectacular display of red dots that glittered everywhere. As everyone looked up into the sky in shock and bewilderment, the air felt thinner, and there was a foul odor around them, despite her father’s assurance that they were most likely fireworks. Their greatest fears were, however, confirmed when dead pigeons started falling over their roof and onto the street below.

The death toll was in the tens of thousands and rising, and no one was safe. While humanity was on the brink of annihilation, a few individuals, like Kassia, were surprisingly immune to the illness. So was Lynxx, an Outlander who had, for sixteen years, blended in among humans without anybody noticing that he was a hybrid. Two months ago, he was assigned by his guardian to monitor the effects of the First Wave on the people of New York and document the rate at which they died of the outbreak. A lot of people were drawn to his physique, including Kassia, whom he shortly after fell in love with. But when he realized she had cancer and that, despite the outbreak, she had not died within the projected time frame, he was astonished and decided to use her as a test subject.

This story skillfully takes a fresh approach to the idea of “survival of the fittest.” It draws readers into the life of a protagonist who, in addition to a life-threatening disease, is also trying to cope with her mother’s rejection. As death stares at her, she is faced with tough decisions and bewilderment, throwing her hope of ever being loved or surviving away. The author also presents a character who questions human resiliency and is taken aback by their strength, joy, optimism, and love even at the most difficult times. This contradicts his long-held conviction in human inadequacy, sending him along a bizarre path that quickly earns him the term “traitor.”

This book’s startling turns and steadily increasing intensity kept me on the edge of my seat from the very beginning. Its sequence of horrific events that progressively lead to a deep comprehension of the nature of love and the things that can awaken any soul is captivating. With their interesting banter, curiosity, and wit, the well-developed characters complement one another, making the story a progressive one. With its slow-burning romance and heart-pounding action, “Girl on Fire” by Eden Hart is among the finest dystopian adventure epics that create immersive worlds that stir the imagination and enthrall the reader. Highly recommended for all young enthusiasts of post-apocalyptic books.

Third Place: Return to Pamplona

Return to Pamplona: A Lover’s Quest in Post-War Spain by Peter J. Meehan

Reviewed by Timea Barabas

Peter J. Meehan delivers an eventful love story that lingers over decades. The spark is lit in Spain on a backdrop of political unrest, when two students of different worlds fall in love. Return to Pamplona: A Lover’s Quest in Post-War Spain opens the window to Spain in the late 1940s, shortly after the end of the Spanish Civil War. The book is an intriguing blend of adult fiction, historical drama, and thriller, promising a truly captivating read.  Purchase Here.

The author invites us to step into a different world and discover its societal mechanisms through the eyes and experiences of a visitor. Richard Samuels, an English geology student visits Spain to study the Spanish Pyrenees. During his stay, he meets a spirited medical student, Terese Burguera, who quickly captures his heart and imagination.

While Richard is merely a visitor, dazzled by the country’s beauty, Terese is deeply immersed in the under layers of society. As a Basque, she grips on to her cultural heritage, undeterred by the risks and hardships it brings under the current regime. When others stay silent, she boldly speaks up and gives voice to those oppressed and overlooked. Her allure is further magnified by her family connections; her uncle, a renowned smuggler, vanished under mysterious circumstances.

In contrast, Richard seems to understand little of her struggles. Instead, he is preoccupied with his personal history and future. When he can no longer postpone his departure, he invites Terese to join him in France, unaware that she has no passport and cannot legally cross the border. She keeps this to herself. Terese finally decides to try to cross on one of the secret trade routes used by her uncle. But along the way, she vanishes without a trace.

After this new reality sets in, Richard slowly returns to his life and tries to move on. However, after more than two decades a discovery prompts him to return to Pamplona in search of answers. This time he arrives as an accomplished geology professor with the pretext of a school trip. Amidst numerous encounters with authorities who watch his every move, he tries to uncover what happened to Terese.

Some experiences, although fleeting, are so strong that they leave a mark that stands the test of time. Peter J. Meehan splits the focus between a personal narrative and a societal fresco to paint a compelling image of how individual lives intertwine with broader cultural currents. Return to Pamplona: A Lover’s Quest in Post-War Spain is an effortless read that draws you in emotionally and takes you to unexpected places.

Third Place: Historical (Fiction and Non-Fiction)
First Place: Dogs Don't Lie by William Leroy

Sleeping Dogs Don’t Lie by William LeRoy

Reviewed by Rahul Gaur

William LeRoy is back with Detective Maximo Morgan in ‘Sleeping Dogs Don’t Lie,’ which includes three engaging mysteries: Jigger Man, Guilt Trip, and Two-Timers. It’s more than just a mystery; it’s a satirical look at small-town life, gang culture, and the corrupt underbelly of politics.   Purchase Here.

The first mystery, “Jigger Man,” introduces us to Max as he is hired by Father Vincente Quesada to investigate a mysterious figure named Jigger Man, aka Beelzebub, who is manipulating local teenagers into gang activities. The quirky way Max introduced himself, ‘Maximo Morgan’s the name, private dickery’s the game,’ really cracked me up. The plot thickens as Max navigates the political landscape, dealing with a nervous mayor, Buford Bailey, and a community on edge.   The story has colorful characters, from the elderly crusader Lela Dimwitty to the various teenage gang members, each adding depth and humor to the narrative. The text is infused with references to Broadway musicals, which enrich the narrative by providing depth to Lela’s character, framing her motivations, and connecting her personal history to broader societal themes. Max navigates through the complexities, aiming to bring peace to the troubled town and protect the teenagers from further harm. The mystery unfolds with suspense and wit, keeping readers engaged until the end.

The second mystery, “Guilt Trip,” delves into Max’s struggles as he faces eviction from his office and deals with a stack of dubious documents brought in by a mysterious blonde. The story explores themes of guilt and responsibility, both in Max’s life and in the lives of the other characters, such as Claudette Phlegming, a schoolteacher trying to escape her financial woes. The narrative is introspective, offering a deeper look into Max’s character while maintaining the humor and intrigue that define the series.

The third mystery, “Two-Timers,” is a lighter, more humorous tale that sees Max investigating a suspected case of teenage two-timing. The story is filled with teenage drama, high school dances, and the complexities of young love. The narrative delves into the complexities of trust in relationships, particularly romantic ones. Max’s reluctance to engage in cases of infidelity highlights the fragile nature of trust and how easily it can be shattered by suspicion. Max’s interactions with his young assistant and the various teenagers are amusing and insightful, showcasing Leroy’s talent for blending humor with mystery.

One of the book’s strengths is its exploration of generational conflict. The book shows us different parts of society through Max’s investigations. Each case he solves helps us understand different problems and issues in the town in a layered manner. For instance, his disappointment in not becoming the detective he dreamed of, but his mentorship of the young character adds depth to his journey. Through Max’s perspective, the book dives into moral choices, social conflicts, and the importance of staying true to one’s principles, even when the odds are against you. Like always, LeRoy’s writing style is simple and relatable, making the book easy to read. For anyone interested in social dynamics, crime, or just a fun detective story, this book is worth the read.

 

Distortion

Distortion by Sierra Ernesto Xavier

Reviewed by Lisa Brown-Gilbert

Distortion by Sierra Ernesto Xavier brings to the awareness a uniquely posed work that presents a deep, dark venture into a distinctive romantic connection within which, a love lesser known, realizes no bounds, thus, leading to the question of are the characters distorted? or is the world around them distorted?  Purchase Here.

Love knows no bounds, when it is true love, especially in the eyes of this narrative’s central and only characters. While the characters and setting are anonymous, their plight as people is not. In fact, it is quite common. After all, we reside in a world that is superficial and judgmental, as well as often ostracizing, to those who do not appear to meet particular cosmetic or mental standards.

Although, within this story, the lovers have bodies that are ripe with infirmity and disfigurement, the two characters are able to see beyond their physical aspects and traumas to only view one another as perfect, and lovable, in a society where they are not considered desirable, sympathetic characters yes, but not particularly lovable or desirable.

Moreover, this uniquely posed story is solely an intense dialogue between its characters. Thus, propelling this story with no particular time period or setting not only ventures into looking at an imbalanced and unfair society but accesses their minds, traumas, and disfigured bodies while venturing into deep psychological healing modes.

Altogether, the narrative places the lovers in spatial locations, which are tantamount to their conversations and interactions. Firstly, starting out, In a Bed, the characters are somewhat introduced, with their feelings and love for one another triumphantly poured out. Next, Against a Wall, details their issues with painful, traumatizing, steps that were taken to address their disfigurement. Then, On the Floor, entails their discourse on face and body shame, while also leading to a session of catharsis. In a Strange Place, there is some healing of their pain and trauma. Followed by In a Candlelit Room and In a Shared Space and that deals with their further healing through sexual consummation and conclusively In a Cafe, brings them back to reality with their disappointing interactions within society.

Overall, I truly enjoyed Distortion by Sierra Ernesto Xavier. I found the unique format and story premise to be captivating. I instantly became enmeshed in the hurt world of the characters, their traumas and their psyche when it came to their particular circumstances. Additionally, this is not a read for the young, squeamish or sensitive, as there are many moments propelled by intense psychological and sexual interaction. What I genuinely enjoyed was experiencing the literately posed, point of view of the characters with no distraction from background characters or subplots. This was a purely effective read fraught with raw emotion, psychological discourse, and raw sexuality which builds throughout the story while dutifully painting stark images in my mind and made for a refreshing read. I do highly recommend this book.