Fiction

The Ambition

Yvonne Blackwood (Friesen Press)

| Reviewed by Louise Garten

In the dynamic setting of 1990s Toronto, brothers John and Carmine Cippione strive to elevate their father's humble HVAC business by partnering with a formidable development company, chasing the dreams of wealth and success. However, when an evil industry adversary threatens their family's legacy with ruinous schemes, they find themselves entangled in a dangerous web of deceit, adultery, and murder. As their world unravels, the brothers must navigate these treacherous waters to salvage their father's name and secure their future amidst fierce a...

Discovering Treasure

Crystal Mary Lindsey (Amazon)

| Reviewed by Meg McKinnon

Discovering Treasure is the first installment in Crystal Mary Lindsey's Vision Valley series. This heartwarming and inspirational story follows the journey of a young woman named Treasure. She flees her chaotic life of fame as a successful model to find peace and purpose in the picturesque Vision Valley in Australia. In the dazzling world of 1920s Paris, Treasure Gilroy seems to have everything—except the love she truly needs. When a mysterious bond with Ella Dittmar compels her to leave it all behind, Treasure journeys to the breathtaking Aust...

Mit Out Sound

Rick Lenz (Chromodroid Press)

| Reviewed by Rachel Groover

Rick Lenz explores ambition, identity, and the shadows of Hollywood in his spectacular novel, Mit Out Sound. The story follows Emily Bennett, a young woman with prosopagnosia—a condition that impairs her ability to recognize faces. Growing up in Beverly Hills, she nurtures strong aspirations in the film industry —her identity is often conflated with those she cannot acknowledge or understand fully. The plot takes readers to the late 20th century, highlighting Emily's ambition to resurrect a lost film starring John Wayne and James Dean, titled “...

No Halo Required

Travis Casey (Travis Casey)

| Reviewed by Jeff Klune

Travis Casey’s No Halo Required plunges readers into the murky waters of morality, race, and personal choices, condensed in a gripping narrative centered around the complex lives of its characters, primarily Isaiah Hightower, an African American vice principal, and his illicit relationship with Alicia Saunders, a young stripper. The story immediately immerses readers in the duality of Isaiah’s life—a respected community leader by day, indulging in questionable pleasures by night. But when his double life is about to unravel, Isaiah must do ever...

The Road To Second Chance

Toni M. Andrews (Paper House)

| Reviewed by Matthew Novak

Toni M. Andrews’ The Road to Second Chance is a clever exploration of grief, grit, and the quest for closure set against the backdrop of 1962 small-town West Virginia and the suburbs of Washington, D.C. The narrative follows Laney Mae Martin, whose idyllic early childhood is shattered by the tragic loss of her father, Gil. The emotional turmoil unleashed by his death—a life-altering car crash that takes both his life and that of another woman—catalyzes a haunting journey of self-discovery. Can she ever come to terms with the loss, and how does...

12 New Christmas Stories

Terry Broxson et al. (Atmosphere Press)

| Reviewed by Jayne Anne Rooney

12 New Christmas Stories is an anthology comprising holiday-themed tales that examine the family, hope, generosity, and the magic of the holiday season. The collection combines the talents of Lee Allen Hill, Diane Kenel-Truelove, Terry Broxson, Ann Mullen-Martin, and Jay Squires, each contributing their unique narrative style and creative imagination. This anthology reflects the authors' compelling storytelling ability, intertwining poignant moments with heartwarming humor to evoke the spirit and traditions of Christmas. “Jesús and Donkey” by L...

Where the Heart Is, A Hom...

D.L. Norris (Outskirts Press)

| Reviewed by Jayne Anne Rooney

In Where the Heart Is, D.L. Norris delivers a profoundly moving tale that skillfully examines themes of family, loss, and the struggle for reconciliation against the picturesque backdrop of Nebraska. Following the death of Jenna Davis-Wilson’s father, she, along with her children, decides to return to her childhood home. This return sets in motion a series of revelations that could destroy her family, including a dark family secret hidden in the attic and disturbing connections to a widow. Jenna's husband, Marcus, a highly regarded obstetrician...

Milestoneville Drama Seri...

Golden November (Independently published)

| Reviewed by Sarah Harkness

Milestoneville Drama Series is the first book in a new series by Golden November. It delivers thrilling drama that examines the intersection of several lives and characters within the vibrant and tumultuous setting of Milestoneville. This drama deftly explores themes of ambition, self-discovery, and the relentless pursuit of success, all while maintaining a grounded sense of humor and camaraderie among its cast. The drama features intriguing characters like Jimbo (JBT) and Good (G), whose camaraderie is marked by their shared exp...

Lookin' for Love: A Novel

Susen Edwards (She Writes Press)

| Reviewed by George Buehlman

Susen Edwards’ Lookin' for Love delivers a deeply moving tale that spans decades. It chronicles the tumultuous life of Ava Novak, a character shaped by a painful childhood, multiple tumultuous relationships, and the search for self-worth and stability amidst chaos. The novel's depth lies in its rich character development, intricate conflicts, plot twists, and a setting that evolves alongside Ava's journey. It is 1963, and nineteen-year-old Ava is trapped in a cycle of violence and despair after marrying an alcoholic and being cast aside by...

The Pond of Reflection

Catherine Ann Russell (Basketful Relief Project)

| Reviewed by John Grossman

Catherine Ann Russell’s The Pond of Reflection is the first installment in The Pearls of Wisdom Series. This tale beautifully intertwines a coming-of-age narrative with profound lessons drawn from biblical wisdom. The story follows a young mouse named Journee, the daughter of a kind and wise king, who embarks on a quest to discover her identity. At the heart of the book is the compelling message that emphasizes the reflection of one's heart in one's life—a theme that resonates deeply throughout the narrative. The plot unfolds in the Mirror...

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