A Passing Curse by C. R. Trolson

A Passing Curse by C.R. Trolson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Passing Curse by C. R. Trolson is another fine example of astute writing by this author. An interesting mix of vampire, thriller and mystery, Trolson does a fine job of masterfully guiding the reader on a journey that involves a serial killer, archeology, and maybe even vampires. This story takes place in several locales as we follow detective Reese in his quest to solve the serial killer mystery, and the Transylvania area, where Rusty the archeologist is looking into finding Vlad Tepes (aka Dracula) for her latest employer. There are plenty of over the top graphic scenes whereby the victims' injuries are horrifyingly described, along with some violent fight scenes and some sexual undertones. These things don't detract from the story, but rather add to the sense of tension and peril. Trolson writes well, finely tuning his characters so you get to know them through their actions, and creates scenes that are memorable while meshing together disparate genres. This story is a different take on the vampire angle, and is highly enjoyable.

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Make Your Own Neural Network: by Michael Taylor

Make Your Own Neural Network: An In-depth Visual Introduction For Beginners by Michael Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If you were ever wondering how you were going to build your own neural network, well look now further. This book, Make Your Own Neural Network: An In-Depth Visual Introduction for Beginners by Michael Taylor has all the information you need to tackle this project. While it is probably helpful to know some higher level math to undertake this process, such as calculus, the visual presentation in this book makes the process seemingly easier to understand and very approachable. Virtually every page has an illustration of some kind, which is very helpful. A book that is helpful for beginners just starting out as well as programmers who are looking to refresh their knowledge, this guide covers all the bases. From the beginning stages to Python libraries and everything in between, this guide is super helpful and will guide you on your way. Highly recommend.

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Elmo Ritz by Frank X. Cronan

Elmo Ritz by Frank X Cronan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Elmo Ritz by Frank X. Cronan is a fast paced and quick witted book about an interesting character, Dan Hanlon, a bit of a tabloid writer of sorts, whose wife bites the bullet. The problem is the bullet was meant for Dan. Dan is now on a mission to exact revenge on those who killed his ex, and along the way, he reunites with and befriends Elmo Ritz, who Cronan refers to as an "herbal domestic hustler". This bizarre combination of friendship and fortitude work wonders with a plot that is both fast paced and a little crazy. These are not ordinary people, and the story itself is highly creative, while embracing great characters and a wealth of odd situations. With a lot of unresolved questions along the way, this book will hold your attention until the very end, when finally there is a satisfying conclusion and solution. Strong recommendation.

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The Summer I Met Alice by N.C. Cummings

The Summer I Met Alice by N.C. Cummings
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Summer I Met Alice by N.C. Cummings is a short little mystery novel about a mysterious little girl named Alice. Becka, a paranormal writer meets Alice one day in her front yard, Alice wearing a strange combination of clothing considering the weather. Becka immediately questions the young girl, and knows something is wrong. The strange story begins to come out after Becka speaks with the police that Alice in fact has been dead for 20 years. This is a tightly woven and succinctly written fast paced story, that brings to light human emotion and suppositions that are often made about those among us who are slightly different. A little girl, and a paranormal writer Becka, are the main and intriguing characters in this short story. Quite good for such a short book, this is highly recommended for a quick and satisfying reading diversion.

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