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.

Roxie the Doxie Finds Her Forever Home

Roxie the Doxie Finds Her Forever Home by Jody A. Dean and Illustrated by Susie Lee Jin

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton Roxie is filled with excitement because today is her special day. Her foster mom reminded her that she will be going to her Forever Home. Although Roxie has never met her new mom and feels a bit anxious, her foster mom, Dawn, reassured her. Dawn has met Roxie’s new family members and has seen their house, which is perfect.  Purchase Here. Roxie wondered what her new mom and house would be like. She was excited to have a sister to play with. When she saw her new mom come to the door, she felt happy. Now came the difficult part. Roxie felt sad because she knew she had to say goodbye to her foster mom and dad. Her mom told her not to be unhappy, as she could visit them whenever she wanted. This reassured Roxie and made her feel very happy. This is Roxie’s first ride in a car, and she even has a special doggie seat. Excitement grew as they drove up the driveway to meet her new sister and see her forever home. Her new sister’s name is Mina. They became great friends as they ran and played together, eventually getting so tired that they fell asleep side by side. They shared dinner and even learned to share the same bed. As Roxie fell asleep, she realized that it didn’t matter what her new mom looked like, what the new house was like, or what color her new sister was. She knew she was loved by her new family, and that was all that truly mattered. This book includes pages with information about the real Roxie the Doxie. Also included is a guide to adoption for parents and therapists. The illustrations are charming and colorful, perfectly capturing the essence of the author’s message on each page. Roxie the Doxie Finds Her Forever Home is a joy for both parents and children, offering a wonderful reading experience for anyone involved in the adoption process. It delivers a powerful message that resonates deeply. Roxie the Doxie Finds Her Forever Home is recommended for ages 4-9. This book is perfect for reading aloud to your children and makes an exceptional gift.  
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.

Platinum Promises

Platinum Promises by Jessa Nevins

Reviewed by Jacquelyn Tolksdorf

Jessa Nevins’ Platinum Promises is a riveting and dramatic exploration of fame, power, and personal conflict set alongside a dramatic love triangle. The novel sequel to Nevins’ Star Maker delves into the complexities of ambition, relationships, and redemption, centering around the life of Kit McKenna, a brilliant but deeply flawed entertainment executive.  Purchase Here.

From the very beginning, readers are thrust into Kit’s world of glamour, high stakes, and scandal. As the narrative unfolds, we witness her navigate the treacherous waters of the entertainment industry, deal with romantic turmoil, and confront the consequences of her self-destructive behaviors.

Nevins masterfully portrays the inner workings of the music industry, and the intense pressure placed on women to not only succeed but maintain an image of perfection. Kit’s struggles are not just professional but deeply personal, particularly her volatile relationship with her rock-star boyfriend, Sully. Their romance is as tumultuous as her career, and Nevins doesn’t shy away from showing the messy, raw emotions that come with love and ambition colliding.

The character development is one of the novel’s strengths. Kit is a complex protagonist—strong-willed, intelligent, yet deeply vulnerable. Her inner monologue reveals a woman grappling with insecurities, guilt, and the pressure to succeed in a male-dominated world. Sully, on the other hand, represents the pitfalls of fame and the toll it takes on relationships. The supporting characters, from Abe, Kit’s mentor, to her troubled friends in the industry, add layers of intrigue and tension, each influencing Kit’s journey in different ways.

Nevins’ prose is sharp and engaging, keeping the reader hooked from one dramatic scene to the next. The pacing is swift, driven by the high-stakes world Kit inhabits. Whether it’s a corporate cover-up, a scandal threatening to leak to the press, or an explosive argument with Sully, there is rarely a dull moment in Platinum Promises.

However, beneath the surface of glamorous parties and high-powered meetings, the novel is a deeper commentary on identity and self-worth. Kit’s quest for power and success often leaves her questioning who she is and whether the sacrifices she’s made are worth it. As her personal and professional lives spiral out of control, she is forced to confront her demons and decide what truly matters.

Platinum Promises is a captivating novel that will appeal to fans of contemporary drama, particularly those interested in the intersection of love, power, and the entertainment world. It’s a powerful reminder of the personal costs that can come with chasing ambition and the importance of finding balance in life.

Nevins has crafted a page-turner filled with emotional depth, making Platinum Promises a memorable and thought-provoking read.

 

 

Because Mom Asked

Because Mom Asked by RW Herman

Reviewed by Reyan Mishra

“Because Mom Asked” is author R W Herman’s third and final memoir following his award-winning debut memoir, “The Unopened Letter” and the extended memoir “Against The Current in the Silent Service”. In the first two memoirs, the author takes us into his evolution as a man with dreams and his struggles in the Navy. Of course, the book in question tells the tale of the same man, yet it’s a bit of a departure from the first two. Here the focus is more on his mindset than on moments.  Purchase Here.

The book takes the readers back to the author’s life before he joined the Navy, his time on duty, and his experiences post-retirement. The author makes detailed mention of the events that are left out in the first two books. The stories though simple nudge you to get acquainted with the true nature of life which is not always how you want it to be.

After finishing his second memoir, the author was more than glad to put away his pen for good. But he had to give in to the pressure of his grandchildren and kick off a new book. His granddaughter Alexis asked him, “The (previous) books tell us a lot about our family heritage but now, we’d really like to learn more. Actually, we’ve got even more questions now than we had before you wrote them. Like, it seems my great-grandma and great-grandpa Herman faced a lot of challenges when you were growing up in Minnesota. I’d like to know more about all that.”

During the discussion, his grandson said, “You know how proud I am of you, your military career, and being able to call you Grandpa. From what I’ve heard, I think your mother also could have a book devoted just to her life … it would be neat to read more about her.” The statement did the magic, and RW Herman realized there were indeed tons of more interesting things to tell his readers.

The interplay of the backstory and consequences of every incident is penned down beautifully. The vivid description of the surroundings creates solid imagery that remains in the head for a few days. The first few pages turn you into the author’s pal who is catching up with him after a long time. And the rest of the book becomes an interesting conversation with a good friend about his experiences. No matter how many pages you whip in one go, the next page is always going to feel enticing.

Anyone who is on the lookout for some realistic motivation and lessons about life and work would most likely find some pages that are worth marking. If read properly, the author’s life stories have it to teach you how to steer through adversities and go about your dreams in the face of mammoth challenges. The book is simple, heartwarming, exciting, and sometimes energizing – a mix of traits that’s rare to come by.

 

 

 

Third Place: The American Martyr by Richard W. Kelly

The American Martyr by Richard W. Kelly

Reviewed by Lilly Andrews Richard W. Kelly’s yarn, The American Martyr, is a deeply penetrating and high stakes work that follows the tumultuous journey of a teenager whose childhood is robbed from him in a series of dramatic events. Brian Brample, a sixteen-year-old boy, had his whole life ahead of him. This changed when the American president drafted a bill that compelled sixteen-year-olds to be conscripted into the army and fight in an unpopular war in China that had nothing to do with being an American.  Purchase Here. Unwilling to be part of a statistic in a losing battle to appease a few despots at the helm of power with selfish interests, Brian and his friends engage in a mass suicide in a mall, as their way of protesting against the government’s decision, in which he reluctantly survives. Following this, his life is thrown into chaos and anguish when he is charged with treason, terrorism, and murder. At his young age, Brian is forced to confront endless court battles, a crooked prison system, government betrayal, and the endless fight for his freedom. With the help of a self-seeking lawyer, Iscariot Culberson, his transformational journey takes him into the corridors of civil rights activism in a powerful story that etches deep into the fabric of American society. Throughout this 500+ narrative, conspiracy, propaganda, wrath, betrayal, and tenacity abound, giving readers a well-worth reading experience that ultimately pays off. Its lucid effort at instilling some moral sense in its plot gives the book an added poise above the usual tropes among books of its genre. The characters, vividly drawn, are introduced to readers through individual chapters before they are all intelligently woven into the budding storyline. Brian’s inner struggles are laid out through his introspections and pensive soliloquies, indicating a deeply flawed character with a strong desire to fight against injustice and save his generation from destruction. The author artfully uses direct and indirect exposition as a double-edged sword along the pages to lend voice to the characters’ temperaments and actions, grounding readers in their world. The American Martyr by Richard W. Kelly is one of those books that promises and delivers and should best be started early in the morning. It is an ambitious take on what would otherwise look like random acts, exploring and unearthing the masked layers that would otherwise remain hidden. It is a book from a true novelist bound to captivate even the pickiest readers of thriller novels.    
Third Place: Mystery/Thriller/Horror/Suspense
Odd Dog Out

Odd Dog Out by Rob Biddulph

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton

What does it mean to be different?

Odd Dog Out is a story about a dog that is different and does not fit in. No matter what, this dog just stands out from all the other dogs.  Purchase Here.

Tired of trying to fit in, Odd Dog decides it is time to leave and go to another town. After walking through many seasons and climbing mountains, she walks till she can walk no more. Did she finally find the place she was looking for? She found Doggywood. Much to her amazement, she found hundreds of other dogs just like her.   They also rode a bike and played guitars. Oh no! She spotted one dog behaving differently. Odd Dog told her new friend that she feels for her.   Odd Dog was really surprised when her new friend said “You’ve got it wrong. I really feel like I belong”. She explained that she loves to stand out in a crowd and told Odd Dog that she should stand tall and be proud.

Odd Dog now realized that her new friend was right. She is now convinced that nothing is wrong with being different and just being “me”.

Odd Dog began her journey home with a new attitude. All of her friends were do happy to see her return. They were cheering and clapping.   They told her how much she was missed and that being different is really great. Odd Dog now noticed other dogs behaving differently. Everyone has a right to be a star!

I love to review children’s books. These books all have a message, and the one emphasized here is BE WHO YOU ARE!   Everyone, even if they are different, has something special to offer and there is nothing wrong about standing out in a crowd!

Odd Dog Out is recommended for ages 4-8 and is a wonderful picture book for parents to read to their children. This book is written and beautifully illustrated by Rob Biddulph.  The illustrations are colorful and attention grabbing!