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Recommend this book:
The Bookseller
And Other Stories
Peter Briscoe
2023 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by Jon Michael Miller for Readers' Favorite
The Bookseller: And Other Stories by Peter Briscoe is a series of stories written in elegant, literary style. The first three pieces are very short with the ambiguity of Wallace Stevens’ poems. They seem unfinished, thus, the question: what do they mean? The featured piece of the collection is the much more formidable The Bookseller with the same elevated, challenging style but a tale with a beginning, middle and end. It’s a mystery involving a mysterious series of thefts from a major Latin American library. Amid his world travels, after a fine meal, a bookseller tells the tale to his admirers. A library patron is fed up with his inability to find the books he wants to read and makes a fuss, which eventually reveals that major book pilfering has been going on for years. The quest then becomes to find the who, when and why. Detective Robles and the library’s director of collections Dr. Andres Vidal launch an investigation.
If you love the beauty and depth of fine literature, you will love The Bookseller. Peter Briscoe’s prose is brilliant and flawless, right up there with all the canon’s greats. The plot combines mystery, police investigation, and library protocol. But what I liked most is the idea (theme) behind the majesty of composition: the present clash of the ancient tradition of books and libraries with the present emergence of digital technology, the former to evaluate and codify knowledge and the latter merely to collect it. There’s also the aesthetic and psychological comparison between reading a book and viewing a screen. I think we’ve all seen the clash in our local libraries where books are dumped to make way for computer monitors. In the magnificent tapestry of Briscoe’s story, all these elements blend to perfection along with a startling surprise at the end. If you appreciate mystery, ideas, characterization, libraries, and elegantly written expression reminiscent of Balzac, all woven into a memorable work of literary art, The Bookseller is for you.
The Bookseller: And Other Stories by Peter Briscoe is a series of stories written in elegant, literary style. The first three pieces are very short with the ambiguity of Wallace Stevens’ poems. They seem unfinished, thus, the question: what do they mean? The featured piece of the collection is the much more formidable The Bookseller with the same elevated, challenging style but a tale with a beginning, middle and end. It’s a mystery involving a mysterious series of thefts from a major Latin American library. Amid his world travels, after a fine meal, a bookseller tells the tale to his admirers. A library patron is fed up with his inability to find the books he wants to read and makes a fuss, which eventually reveals that major book pilfering has been going on for years. The quest then becomes to find the who, when and why. Detective Robles and the library’s director of collections Dr. Andres Vidal launch an investigation.
If you love the beauty and depth of fine literature, you will love The Bookseller. Peter Briscoe’s prose is brilliant and flawless, right up there with all the canon’s greats. The plot combines mystery, police investigation, and library protocol. But what I liked most is the idea (theme) behind the majesty of composition: the present clash of the ancient tradition of books and libraries with the present emergence of digital technology, the former to evaluate and codify knowledge and the latter merely to collect it. There’s also the aesthetic and psychological comparison between reading a book and viewing a screen. I think we’ve all seen the clash in our local libraries where books are dumped to make way for computer monitors. In the magnificent tapestry of Briscoe’s story, all these elements blend to perfection along with a startling surprise at the end. If you appreciate mystery, ideas, characterization, libraries, and elegantly written expression reminiscent of Balzac, all woven into a memorable work of literary art, The Bookseller is for you.
Recommend this book:
Tree of Lives
Elizabeth Garden, Barbara Bose
2023 Honorable Mention
468 Pages
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Tree of Lives, written by Elizabeth Garden and with artwork by Barbara Brose, is a work of women's fiction in a hybrid historical-contemporary setting that follows the account of one woman's journey to self-empowerment in the face of immense adversity. Through the detailed life of Ruth and with a deeply intimate look at her family, Garden explores the intricacies of familial connections and the profound impact of buried secrets on future generations. The book deftly navigates between the early 1900s tale of Raymond and Ruth's present-day story, weaving together the threads of their emotional narratives with a remarkable and cataclysmic outcome that dredges up a deeply haunting history. Ruth's layers of pain stem from beyond an abusive, unstable upbringing that no person should ever be subjected to, and the outlet she uses to shatter the mold is hers alone.
Tree of Lives by Elizabeth Garden is not an easy read, but it is a very worthy one. For centuries women have been exploited at the hands of abusive men, and Ruth's particularly harrowing experiences are sensitively portrayed in Garden's writing. We are able to witness firsthand as Ruth emerges as the most resilient of female protagonists. She will not be silenced. She will not be robbed of her strength. Through Ruth, Garden offers a poignant reminder of the importance of self-empowerment and the courage needed to break free from the shackles of the past. Within each of us, there is a hidden well from which we can draw our power, whether it is filled with art or any other channel of love. Overall, this is a tale that is often painful but equally inspiring and I have no doubt that readers with an interest in complex soul-searching into family secrets and the dynamics they forge will feel the same way. Very highly recommended.
Tree of Lives, written by Elizabeth Garden and with artwork by Barbara Brose, is a work of women's fiction in a hybrid historical-contemporary setting that follows the account of one woman's journey to self-empowerment in the face of immense adversity. Through the detailed life of Ruth and with a deeply intimate look at her family, Garden explores the intricacies of familial connections and the profound impact of buried secrets on future generations. The book deftly navigates between the early 1900s tale of Raymond and Ruth's present-day story, weaving together the threads of their emotional narratives with a remarkable and cataclysmic outcome that dredges up a deeply haunting history. Ruth's layers of pain stem from beyond an abusive, unstable upbringing that no person should ever be subjected to, and the outlet she uses to shatter the mold is hers alone.
Tree of Lives by Elizabeth Garden is not an easy read, but it is a very worthy one. For centuries women have been exploited at the hands of abusive men, and Ruth's particularly harrowing experiences are sensitively portrayed in Garden's writing. We are able to witness firsthand as Ruth emerges as the most resilient of female protagonists. She will not be silenced. She will not be robbed of her strength. Through Ruth, Garden offers a poignant reminder of the importance of self-empowerment and the courage needed to break free from the shackles of the past. Within each of us, there is a hidden well from which we can draw our power, whether it is filled with art or any other channel of love. Overall, this is a tale that is often painful but equally inspiring and I have no doubt that readers with an interest in complex soul-searching into family secrets and the dynamics they forge will feel the same way. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
I'll Be Seeing You
Joanne Kukanza Easley
2023 Bronze Medal
227 Pages
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by Trudi LoPreto for Readers' Favorite
I'll Be Seeing You by Joanne Kukanza Easley is the life story of Ruby, who decides that her middle name, Lauren, is what she wants to be called, despite her mother's strong objections. The story begins in 1938 and we follow her troubled life through 1985 when she is in her 60s and wants to fix the mistakes she has made over the years. We first meet Ruby as a fourteen-year-old girl living on her family's cattle ranch in Texas. When Aunt Imogene comes for a visit, taking Ruby to her home in New York, life will never again be the same for her. Returning to Texas and the ranch leaves her dissatisfied and wanting more. Lauren's dream is fulfilled when she gets the chance to return to New York and become a model. Living in New York with its fast pace starts out as a wonderful experience. Sadly, over the years and making many wrong life decisions and choices leaves Lauren a lonely alcoholic. There have been multiple jobs, husbands, and changes of address before the story ends.
I'll Be Seeing You is the story of a very confused, sad, and misguided woman, and we readers share in all of her highs and lows over her lifetime. I found myself liking Lauren and hoping that she found what she was looking for. There was lots of sadness but joy also mixed in over the years, making her life feel very real and possible. Joanne Kukanza Easley created a strong character in Lauren who had to learn her self-worth the hard way. I'll Be Seeing You highlighted the many obstacles facing today's modern woman, but it also showed the many opportunities and good things available out there. I'll Be Seeing You is a well-written, worthwhile read and would make a great Hallmark movie.
I'll Be Seeing You by Joanne Kukanza Easley is the life story of Ruby, who decides that her middle name, Lauren, is what she wants to be called, despite her mother's strong objections. The story begins in 1938 and we follow her troubled life through 1985 when she is in her 60s and wants to fix the mistakes she has made over the years. We first meet Ruby as a fourteen-year-old girl living on her family's cattle ranch in Texas. When Aunt Imogene comes for a visit, taking Ruby to her home in New York, life will never again be the same for her. Returning to Texas and the ranch leaves her dissatisfied and wanting more. Lauren's dream is fulfilled when she gets the chance to return to New York and become a model. Living in New York with its fast pace starts out as a wonderful experience. Sadly, over the years and making many wrong life decisions and choices leaves Lauren a lonely alcoholic. There have been multiple jobs, husbands, and changes of address before the story ends.
I'll Be Seeing You is the story of a very confused, sad, and misguided woman, and we readers share in all of her highs and lows over her lifetime. I found myself liking Lauren and hoping that she found what she was looking for. There was lots of sadness but joy also mixed in over the years, making her life feel very real and possible. Joanne Kukanza Easley created a strong character in Lauren who had to learn her self-worth the hard way. I'll Be Seeing You highlighted the many obstacles facing today's modern woman, but it also showed the many opportunities and good things available out there. I'll Be Seeing You is a well-written, worthwhile read and would make a great Hallmark movie.
Recommend this book:
The New Empire
Alison McBain
2023 Silver Medal
340 Pages
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The New Empire is a work of fiction in the historical, action, and alternative timeline subgenres. It is best suited to mature teen and adult readers owing to some scenes of graphic violence concurrent with history, and was penned by author Alison McBain. Set in an eighteenth century very far from our own, we find ourselves following the author into a world where China was the first to land in what we know as the United States of America, merging and allying themselves with the Native American tribespeople there. Our protagonist Jiangxi is sold as a slave the moment he arrives in this harsh land, but the path to freedom has its own problems too.
Author Alison McBain perfectly captures the spirit of the historical novel with such credibility, atmosphere, and detail that I can readily imagine the alternate universe where this history is playing out right now. I was absolutely fascinated by the tribal confederacies and the way that the settlers divided the land and governmental systems. I also especially enjoyed the unique relationship that develops between Jiangxi and Onas, which took turns I wasn’t expecting and played out in a suitably Dickensian fashion for the era, but without glossing over all the gory, difficult details of the reality of the life that starts with slavery. McBain delivers a sensitively portrayed clash of cultures that never relies on stereotypes but is based on the very plausible and dangerous reactions of humans who find themselves in total control of others, and that is what makes the work so believable and thrilling at its core. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The New Empire to alternative history readers everywhere for its accomplished concept and no-holds-barred storytelling style.
The New Empire is a work of fiction in the historical, action, and alternative timeline subgenres. It is best suited to mature teen and adult readers owing to some scenes of graphic violence concurrent with history, and was penned by author Alison McBain. Set in an eighteenth century very far from our own, we find ourselves following the author into a world where China was the first to land in what we know as the United States of America, merging and allying themselves with the Native American tribespeople there. Our protagonist Jiangxi is sold as a slave the moment he arrives in this harsh land, but the path to freedom has its own problems too.
Author Alison McBain perfectly captures the spirit of the historical novel with such credibility, atmosphere, and detail that I can readily imagine the alternate universe where this history is playing out right now. I was absolutely fascinated by the tribal confederacies and the way that the settlers divided the land and governmental systems. I also especially enjoyed the unique relationship that develops between Jiangxi and Onas, which took turns I wasn’t expecting and played out in a suitably Dickensian fashion for the era, but without glossing over all the gory, difficult details of the reality of the life that starts with slavery. McBain delivers a sensitively portrayed clash of cultures that never relies on stereotypes but is based on the very plausible and dangerous reactions of humans who find themselves in total control of others, and that is what makes the work so believable and thrilling at its core. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The New Empire to alternative history readers everywhere for its accomplished concept and no-holds-barred storytelling style.
Recommend this book:
Soulful Return
Fidelis O. Mkparu
2023 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Soulful Return by Fidelis O Mkparu is a beautiful tale about change, death, life, renewal, and identity. Doctor Afamefuna Onochie Nwaku is a Nigerian-born, Harvard-trained medical doctor whose thriving medical practice is disrupted by a phone call from his sister in Nigeria. Adaku implores him to come home because her life is being threatened by those who are trying to take away their land. It has been twenty-five years since Afamefuna went home, as he has been busy making their humble family name known in medical research. He returns to his home country like a stranger in a strange land, as Adaku points out that he is no longer familiar with their native culture. He also finds that the corruption plaguing Nigeria is one disease that will be difficult to cure. But he will also experience an epiphany that he and his sister are equals in every aspect of their lives, and that is the way it is supposed to be.
Soulful Return is a simple story and yet it sings. It will largely remind you of the works of esteemed African writers like Chinua Achebe and Naguib Mahfouz. It has a powerful theme of identity, which is lost and rekindled within Afamefuna. The societal evils are another conflict to be reckoned with as Fidelis O Mkparu prepares you for a culture shock with his vivid descriptions of local color and the corruption that hounds it. Mkparu writes in English, but his use of Nigerian slang makes his narrative authentic. Moreover, he manages to weave different conflicts into the story that allows for its resolution to bridge the two cultures that the protagonist inhabits. Underlying everything, it seems to say that it is important to look back when you are at the pinnacle of your success because your past always has a way of taking you back to where you began. This is a powerful literary tale rich in reflection that everyone should take time to read and absorb.
Soulful Return by Fidelis O Mkparu is a beautiful tale about change, death, life, renewal, and identity. Doctor Afamefuna Onochie Nwaku is a Nigerian-born, Harvard-trained medical doctor whose thriving medical practice is disrupted by a phone call from his sister in Nigeria. Adaku implores him to come home because her life is being threatened by those who are trying to take away their land. It has been twenty-five years since Afamefuna went home, as he has been busy making their humble family name known in medical research. He returns to his home country like a stranger in a strange land, as Adaku points out that he is no longer familiar with their native culture. He also finds that the corruption plaguing Nigeria is one disease that will be difficult to cure. But he will also experience an epiphany that he and his sister are equals in every aspect of their lives, and that is the way it is supposed to be.
Soulful Return is a simple story and yet it sings. It will largely remind you of the works of esteemed African writers like Chinua Achebe and Naguib Mahfouz. It has a powerful theme of identity, which is lost and rekindled within Afamefuna. The societal evils are another conflict to be reckoned with as Fidelis O Mkparu prepares you for a culture shock with his vivid descriptions of local color and the corruption that hounds it. Mkparu writes in English, but his use of Nigerian slang makes his narrative authentic. Moreover, he manages to weave different conflicts into the story that allows for its resolution to bridge the two cultures that the protagonist inhabits. Underlying everything, it seems to say that it is important to look back when you are at the pinnacle of your success because your past always has a way of taking you back to where you began. This is a powerful literary tale rich in reflection that everyone should take time to read and absorb.
Recommend this book:
Brandenburg II
The Ninth Circle of Hell
James Cloud
2022 Finalist
526 Pages
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Brandenburg II: The Ninth Circle of Hell by James Cloud is a penetrating and well-researched story about Nazi Germany as told from the German perspective. While Hitler is the focal point, the struggles of those under the Third Reich keep the wheels of the storyline turning. As chaos reigns and the worldwide Depression has greatly impacted Germany, Adolf Hitler rises to power. With his impassioned speeches that draw many to support his cause, Germans are optimistic that this new Chancellor will get the country back on its feet. Hitler is more than willing to use misinformation to achieve his goals, a propagandistic reason for starting a war, regardless of whether it is believable or not. Over the course of Hitler’s reign, the German people will undergo the difficulties and travails that go with the Nazi propaganda.
Brandenburg II is an interesting piece of historical fiction, an epic story that stays true to its historical material. Most of us are already familiar with Hitler’s rise to power, but James Cloud gives this story a strong element of humanity by depicting the political, economic, and social conditions of those living under the Nazi ideology, and illustrates that not all Germans were sympathetic to Hitler. It is an exhaustively well-researched story that promotes a timely awareness, considering that we are continuously witnessing international tensions and crises. There is probably plenty of historical fiction that you would like to read, but James Cloud’s Brandenburg II is one that you must read, as it ticks all the boxes when it comes to what history-based fiction should be.
Brandenburg II: The Ninth Circle of Hell by James Cloud is a penetrating and well-researched story about Nazi Germany as told from the German perspective. While Hitler is the focal point, the struggles of those under the Third Reich keep the wheels of the storyline turning. As chaos reigns and the worldwide Depression has greatly impacted Germany, Adolf Hitler rises to power. With his impassioned speeches that draw many to support his cause, Germans are optimistic that this new Chancellor will get the country back on its feet. Hitler is more than willing to use misinformation to achieve his goals, a propagandistic reason for starting a war, regardless of whether it is believable or not. Over the course of Hitler’s reign, the German people will undergo the difficulties and travails that go with the Nazi propaganda.
Brandenburg II is an interesting piece of historical fiction, an epic story that stays true to its historical material. Most of us are already familiar with Hitler’s rise to power, but James Cloud gives this story a strong element of humanity by depicting the political, economic, and social conditions of those living under the Nazi ideology, and illustrates that not all Germans were sympathetic to Hitler. It is an exhaustively well-researched story that promotes a timely awareness, considering that we are continuously witnessing international tensions and crises. There is probably plenty of historical fiction that you would like to read, but James Cloud’s Brandenburg II is one that you must read, as it ticks all the boxes when it comes to what history-based fiction should be.
Recommend this book:
Second Survivor
Leah Moyes
2022 Honorable Mention
312 Pages
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by Ammaarah Seboa for Readers' Favorite
Leah Moyes’ Second Survivor is a touching story about love, loss, and survival. Isabel Marie Fontaine becomes the second survivor after washing up on the coast of Menorca, Spain, as a result of the Général Chanzy shipwreck. Saved by a local farmer, Miguel, Isabel assumes the name Maria to protect herself, and for the first time in her life, she’s able to make her own decisions. Miguel and his wife Anita, take Isabel in and treat her as the daughter they never had. While living with them, Isabel meets their neighbor, Francisco Carrasco. The attraction between the two is instant, but Isabel lives in fear of her true identity being discovered and handed over to the villain of her future, Thomas Chastain.
This was truly a wonderful story that captivated me with every turn of the page. I loved that the Général Chanzy shipwreck of 1910 inspired Leah Moyes to write Second Survivor. In the author’s note, she says that after participating in an archeological dig in 2018, her head spun with ideas of a second person surviving the shipwreck as opposed to just Marcel Badez. Moyes has spun a beautifully crafted story that speaks of sorrow, family obligations, and new beginnings. I also loved that each key character had their own POV so that we, as the readers, can grasp the bigger picture without too much being given away. One of my favorite quotes from the novel is: “The sea is ambiguous, its secrets lie beneath the surface,” It’s something that resonates with Isabel as well as the villain Thomas Chastain. It reminds us that just by looking a little deeper, we are able to see a clearer picture.
Leah Moyes’ Second Survivor is a touching story about love, loss, and survival. Isabel Marie Fontaine becomes the second survivor after washing up on the coast of Menorca, Spain, as a result of the Général Chanzy shipwreck. Saved by a local farmer, Miguel, Isabel assumes the name Maria to protect herself, and for the first time in her life, she’s able to make her own decisions. Miguel and his wife Anita, take Isabel in and treat her as the daughter they never had. While living with them, Isabel meets their neighbor, Francisco Carrasco. The attraction between the two is instant, but Isabel lives in fear of her true identity being discovered and handed over to the villain of her future, Thomas Chastain.
This was truly a wonderful story that captivated me with every turn of the page. I loved that the Général Chanzy shipwreck of 1910 inspired Leah Moyes to write Second Survivor. In the author’s note, she says that after participating in an archeological dig in 2018, her head spun with ideas of a second person surviving the shipwreck as opposed to just Marcel Badez. Moyes has spun a beautifully crafted story that speaks of sorrow, family obligations, and new beginnings. I also loved that each key character had their own POV so that we, as the readers, can grasp the bigger picture without too much being given away. One of my favorite quotes from the novel is: “The sea is ambiguous, its secrets lie beneath the surface,” It’s something that resonates with Isabel as well as the villain Thomas Chastain. It reminds us that just by looking a little deeper, we are able to see a clearer picture.
Recommend this book:
Decanted
Linda Sheehan
2022 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Decanted by Linda Sheehan is a novel in the women’s fiction, slice of life, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is intended for the adult reading audience owing to sexual references and occasional explicit language. Spanning two different generations of women seeking life, love, and liberation, this utterly charming novel sees protagonist Samantha follow in the footsteps of her great-aunt, Vivian, who escaped the drudgery of life’s expectations for greener pastures in France. As Samantha works through the grape harvest, she learns a great deal about the pleasures of life, and a link from Vivian’s past leads her to even more shocking revelations that will truly help her reinvent herself for the future.
It's clear from the offset that author Linda Sheehan has a passion for wine and the beautiful process of its creation, and this rich backdrop sets the scene and the mood perfectly for a gorgeously lush tale of self-expression, freedom, and what it means to be a forward-thinking woman. I adored Samantha as a central protagonist for her combination of spirit and naivety and her capacity to grow and learn when faced with different challenges. The plot moves at a fast pace throughout the novel and twists in just the right places to keep readers on their toes so that it’s never predictable. I would certainly recommend Decanted for women’s fiction enthusiasts everywhere, and Sheehan as an author to watch for her wit, craftsmanship, and emotional resonance on each page.
Decanted by Linda Sheehan is a novel in the women’s fiction, slice of life, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is intended for the adult reading audience owing to sexual references and occasional explicit language. Spanning two different generations of women seeking life, love, and liberation, this utterly charming novel sees protagonist Samantha follow in the footsteps of her great-aunt, Vivian, who escaped the drudgery of life’s expectations for greener pastures in France. As Samantha works through the grape harvest, she learns a great deal about the pleasures of life, and a link from Vivian’s past leads her to even more shocking revelations that will truly help her reinvent herself for the future.
It's clear from the offset that author Linda Sheehan has a passion for wine and the beautiful process of its creation, and this rich backdrop sets the scene and the mood perfectly for a gorgeously lush tale of self-expression, freedom, and what it means to be a forward-thinking woman. I adored Samantha as a central protagonist for her combination of spirit and naivety and her capacity to grow and learn when faced with different challenges. The plot moves at a fast pace throughout the novel and twists in just the right places to keep readers on their toes so that it’s never predictable. I would certainly recommend Decanted for women’s fiction enthusiasts everywhere, and Sheehan as an author to watch for her wit, craftsmanship, and emotional resonance on each page.
Recommend this book:
Light Chaser
Zahra Omar Shansab
2022 Silver Medal
160 Pages
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite
Light Chaser by Zahra Omar Shansab is the story of Pari, a vibrant thirteen-year-old in Afghanistan who loved education. Pari loved to read and lived in her fantasy world most of the time. She lost her father to landmines during the war, and her school burned down. Pari consoled herself by reading the books she had received from her father. Life was hard, and her family could barely feed themselves. The day Pari went on an errand, pandemonium broke out, a foreign entity made it into their home, and all hell was let loose. Her family incurred the wrath of the insurgents, so they must flee to save their lives. But where to? Pari and her family embarked on a journey into the unknown. What does fate have in store for her?
Light Chaser by Zahra Omar Shansab is a short but riveting novel. The plot and development of the story were excellent. With chaos and disruption everywhere, this story was sobering. Pari lived each day in war-torn Afghanistan, fearful of every second. Dreams quashed, zero safety, and horrible living conditions were their lot. My heart went out to people experiencing unrest worldwide. The story also looked at cultural and religious bias, especially against women. They live in a world where man-made laws sealed the fate of women when they were babes. However, Pari was brave, never losing her empathy and optimism, even in the face of danger. Aalia was also a heroine who fought against limitations, regardless of the consequences. Light Chaser is a fictional story that mirrors reality. It touched my heart, and I hope Pari never loses her light.
Light Chaser by Zahra Omar Shansab is the story of Pari, a vibrant thirteen-year-old in Afghanistan who loved education. Pari loved to read and lived in her fantasy world most of the time. She lost her father to landmines during the war, and her school burned down. Pari consoled herself by reading the books she had received from her father. Life was hard, and her family could barely feed themselves. The day Pari went on an errand, pandemonium broke out, a foreign entity made it into their home, and all hell was let loose. Her family incurred the wrath of the insurgents, so they must flee to save their lives. But where to? Pari and her family embarked on a journey into the unknown. What does fate have in store for her?
Light Chaser by Zahra Omar Shansab is a short but riveting novel. The plot and development of the story were excellent. With chaos and disruption everywhere, this story was sobering. Pari lived each day in war-torn Afghanistan, fearful of every second. Dreams quashed, zero safety, and horrible living conditions were their lot. My heart went out to people experiencing unrest worldwide. The story also looked at cultural and religious bias, especially against women. They live in a world where man-made laws sealed the fate of women when they were babes. However, Pari was brave, never losing her empathy and optimism, even in the face of danger. Aalia was also a heroine who fought against limitations, regardless of the consequences. Light Chaser is a fictional story that mirrors reality. It touched my heart, and I hope Pari never loses her light.
Recommend this book:
Bloodletting and Germs
A Doctor in Nineteenth Century Rural New York
Thomas Rosenthal
2022 Gold Medal
348 Pages
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
Bloodletting and Germs: A Doctor in Nineteenth-Century Rural New York by Thomas Rosenthal is a historical novel that explores strong medical themes and the work of Dr. Jabez Allen, a setting that is at the turning point in medical history. Dr. Allen is not particularly loved by his peers who reject his application for a license. But to practice, he will have to be intelligent and to outwit his enemies, using a drugstore in rural New York as a front. This novel showcases the work of a brave man who gave everything to his country, a doctor whose doors were wide open to anyone in need, and who remained faithful to his motto: “No Cure, No Pay.”
Thomas Rosenthal writes in a style that is evocative and provides powerful historical hints. The setting is brilliantly captured, with shades of the Civil War, anthrax, and cholera pandemic. The personality of Dr. Allen is ingeniously developed and readers encounter a man passionate about his service to society, backed by an indefatigable wife who doubles as an Underground Railroad activist. While this is a novel that transports readers back to a historical moment and allows them to relive some of the events of the time, it is an inspiration to readers who want to make a difference and anyone with a dream that can impact lives. The writing is beautiful and the reader is left in no doubt that this is a rich novel, well-researched, and beautifully written. Bloodletting and Germs: A Doctor in Nineteenth-Century Rural New York is both captivating and inspiring, a compelling historical novel.
Bloodletting and Germs: A Doctor in Nineteenth-Century Rural New York by Thomas Rosenthal is a historical novel that explores strong medical themes and the work of Dr. Jabez Allen, a setting that is at the turning point in medical history. Dr. Allen is not particularly loved by his peers who reject his application for a license. But to practice, he will have to be intelligent and to outwit his enemies, using a drugstore in rural New York as a front. This novel showcases the work of a brave man who gave everything to his country, a doctor whose doors were wide open to anyone in need, and who remained faithful to his motto: “No Cure, No Pay.”
Thomas Rosenthal writes in a style that is evocative and provides powerful historical hints. The setting is brilliantly captured, with shades of the Civil War, anthrax, and cholera pandemic. The personality of Dr. Allen is ingeniously developed and readers encounter a man passionate about his service to society, backed by an indefatigable wife who doubles as an Underground Railroad activist. While this is a novel that transports readers back to a historical moment and allows them to relive some of the events of the time, it is an inspiration to readers who want to make a difference and anyone with a dream that can impact lives. The writing is beautiful and the reader is left in no doubt that this is a rich novel, well-researched, and beautifully written. Bloodletting and Germs: A Doctor in Nineteenth-Century Rural New York is both captivating and inspiring, a compelling historical novel.
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