Abigail's Exchange by Kathryn Den Houter

Abigail's Exchange by Kathryn Den Houter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Abigail's Exchange: Becoming Resilient is a well-written novel, based on meticulous historical research, that largely explores the trials and tribulations of women in a specific timeframe. Looking through that lens, it also offers a gripping narrative for readers of all genders, featuring fires, explosions, and the looming threat of mob violence. The book effectively transports you into the world of a century ago, vividly portraying with great detail the socially condoned limitations that could diminish anyone's sense of self-worth. The narrative also integrates a captivating account of Women's Exchanges, weaving in historical detail that doesn't detract from the overall narrative. Overall an interesting and entertaining read.

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The Guest by B.A. Paris

The Guest by B.A. Paris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Guest by B.A. Paris was an amazing read. The story is full of secrets, murder, and interesting characters. The narrative basically goes back and forth between Iris and Gabriel, and they each have plenty of secrets. I did not see the twist coming. Laure, an old friend of the couple, comes to stay for a while when she has issues with her husband Pierre. Of course she overstays her welcome, but there is so much going on in the story other than this one issue, it simply pulls you in. You will be mesmerized by this novel. Highly recommend.

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For What It's Worth by Nathan Pettijohn

For What It's Worth by Nathan Pettijohn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In Nathan Pettijohn's captivating narrative, "For What It's Worth," readers are treated to a literary concoction that seamlessly blends the light-hearted humor of a coming-of-age story with the pulse-pounding intensity of a crime thriller. This book is a testament to Pettijohn's storytelling finesse, deftly capturing the essence of high school antics and intertwining them with high-stakes action and mind-bending plot twists. The result is a tale that elicits a rollercoaster of emotions, evoking laughter, nostalgia, reminiscing about high-school days, and nail-biting suspense in equal amounts. This unique and entertaining narrative is a must-read for those seeking a perfect blend of nostalgia and adrenaline, all bound within the covers of a single book.

The story begins with Earl Derkatch, a man deeply ensnared in the world of conspiracy theories. Fueled by paranoia, Earl takes an audacious step by breaking into the enigmatic Sockolosky Estate, determined to unearth incriminating evidence against Bob Sockolosky. However, fate has a different plan in store for him. Inside the estate's secure safe, Earl discovers not the expected documents but instead lays his hands on a cache of four exquisite blue diamonds. His ill-fated theft is abruptly halted when Bob unexpectedly returns home, leaving Earl caught red-handed and thrust into a sinister world of criminal intrigue. The lead-up to this, in descriptive terms, is well-rendered, and the atmosphere and surroundings beautifully described.

Yet, the story's backdrop isn't solely about high-stakes heists. As the narrative unfolds, it transitions to the final days of senior year for a group of exuberant young men on the cusp of graduating. Their days are filled with fun and revelry as they celebrate the end of an era. In a spirit of mischief and camaraderie, they hatch a plan to pull pranks on unsuspecting individuals during the last week of school, unleashing a cascade of laughter and seemingly harmless chaos.

However, what they initially perceive as harmless antics soon spirals into a tumultuous sequence of events, unraveling secrets and unforeseen consequences that push the boundaries of their expectations. As their mischievous adventures intertwine with Earl's audacious theft and Bob's return, a complex tapestry of humor, suspense, and nostalgia emerges, leaving readers spellbound and eagerly turning the pages to uncover what fate has in store for this group of endearing characters. Highly recommended.

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These Things Happen by Michael Eon

These Things Happen: A Novel by Michael Eon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In "These Things Happen," Michael Eon masterfully delves into the intricate themes of childhood abuse, addiction, and the arduous path to recovery. This is an unflinching and tough read. The book's main character, Daniel Zimmerman, is born into an environment of profound dysfunction and abuse, sharing this tumultuous upbringing with his two brothers, Harry and Max.

From the start of the story, it becomes abundantly clear that this is not a book for the faint-hearted. Eon unflinchingly tackles heavy, somber themes with a striking realism that is fairly unsettling. The narrative's uncompromising portrayal of trauma and addiction grips you, drawing you deeply into Daniel's tumultuous journey. As you bear witness to his struggles, it's impossible not to feel a profound sense of empathy for his harrowing experiences. The depiction of addiction within these pages is an unvarnished, realistic look at a profoundly grueling and emotional ordeal.

Eon masterfully interweaves Daniel's formative years and his present-day struggles, providing a poignant and intimate look into the massive, yet almost unknown influence of a turbulent upbringing. The narrative prompts you to question the essence of addiction - whether addicts are mere products of their surroundings or if they bear a degree of personal responsibility.

Throughout the narrative, Daniel's resilience becomes a source of inspiration for readers. His journey to confront his addiction and regain control of his life is riddled with hurdles and tribulations, mirroring the real-life battles encountered by countless individuals grappling with similar challenges. The narrative is an unflinching testament to the enduring struggle faced by those seeking to break free from the clutches of addiction and the long-lasting ramifications of early-life trauma.

"These Things Happen" is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking read. It invites you to explore the intricacies of the human condition, the lasting effects of trauma, and the unwavering determination required to reclaim one's life. Eon's storytelling is a compelling blend of heartache and hope, leaving an indelible mark on readers who embark on this poignant literary journey. The book's ability to elicit such profound emotions and introspection underscores its effectiveness as a vehicle for the exploration of addiction, recovery, and the profound complexities of the human experience.






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Ordinary Soil by Alex Woodard

Ordinary Soil by Alex Woodard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Within the intricate tapestry of Ordinary Soil written by Alex Woodard, a profound exploration unfolds, delving into the haunting legacy of familial trauma spanning generations. This poignant narrative takes readers on a compelling journey through the lives of an Oklahoma farming family across multiple timeframes, illuminating the relentless grip of trauma that transcends time.

Initially, the book presents a formidable challenge. It introduces a diverse cast of characters, each with their narrative space, and the intricate web of kinship is not immediately apparent. Some characters remain anonymous, further complicating the reader's quest. The uneasy rhythm dances unpredictably, often leaping across months or years within chapters, leaving readers adrift in determining the storyteller. It's a mysterious puzzle that necessitates revisiting earlier chapters to reconstruct the intricate family lineage and keep track of what is happening.

Yet, persistence reaps rich rewards. As you immerse yourself in this literary voyage, you'll unearth its transformative potential. Alex Woodard, the author, expertly melds fact and fiction, coining the term "faction." Throughout the narrative, he unveils a treasure trove of wisdom concerning farming, the repercussions of chemical intervention on health and agriculture, and the intricate fabric of human connections. It becomes evident that the familial trauma haunting this lineage is intimately entwined with their relationship with the land and their consequential choices.

As the narrative unfolds, Ordinary Soil compels readers to reassess their connection to nourishment and the environment. The story's culmination is nothing short of breathtaking, seamlessly weaving factual revelations with the resolution of the fictional journey. It delivers a profoundly gratifying denouement that resonates on a profound level.

Woodard's prose mimics a high-octane race, commencing with a sprint, maintaining a steady cadence through the middle stretch, and then surging ahead as the finish line approaches. It's a thrilling literary expedition that leaves an enduring mark on the reader's psyche.

Ordinary Soil defies easy categorization—it is a multifaceted narrative. It serves as a historical excavation, an examination of environmental degradation, a contemporary suspenseful thriller, a poignant love story, and an enigmatic detective tale, all intricately interwoven. Above all, it emerges as a clarion call, challenging us to reconsider our choices, both in lifestyle and sustenance. This book is more than a narrative; it is a potential catalyst for transformation, a literary journey that possesses the power to reshape the world.







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