Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite

Mother of Red Mountains by Apple An is a compelling story set in 20th-century China that follows Jun, a young girl who faces a series of tragedies that profoundly change her life. She loses her father, who did not see the importance of education; her mother dies of a broken heart; and one of her brothers leaves the family after the death of his wife. Despite these setbacks, Jun pursues a career in engineering, becoming one of the top students and eventually landing a good job. Jun meets Binkai, a promising young man, she marries him despite his family's objections regarding her career and lack of domestic skills. Together, they have two beautiful daughters, and the couple struggles to raise them as they find it challenging to balance work and household duties. Eventually, they send the girls to live with their grandparents. However, during the communist Cultural Revolution, the family faces attacks due to Binkai's family's capitalist past, which traumatizes Jun and her daughters.

Mother of Red Mountains is a memorable and moving tale that addresses various issues affecting women. Although the characters are fictional, the story is based on real events that impacted the people of China during the communist revolution. Jun's struggle to balance her career and family life is relatable, particularly for many working mothers. I admire her determination to become an engineer in an era when women were often expected just to bear children and manage the household. Her love for her children as a mother is also commendable. Apple An skillfully explores themes of societal prejudices, traditional family dynamics, romantic and sibling relationships, and unplanned pregnancy. What makes this book stand out is its focus on a woman's life, as most historical novels tend to depict men's experiences. The book includes questions at the end that encourage readers to reflect on the themes presented. Overall, this is an excellent read with a thought-provoking plot and a powerful message about resilience and empowerment.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Olive Grove by Deborah Rohan is a sweeping historical novel that tells the story of one Palestinian family’s journey through love, loss, and displacement across the twentieth century. Hamzi Moghrabi is a young boy growing up in the coastal city of Akka in 1913, whose life is soon shaped by the cascading effects of colonial rule, global war, and growing political strife. As the family’s once-thriving community is fractured by conflict and they are forced into exile, their ancestral olive groves become both a memory and a symbol of resilience. Spanning generations, this novel chronicles the enduring strength of a family determined to preserve their identity and history against overwhelming odds.

Author Deborah Rohan has an innate sense of character, and that comes through in every descriptive moment and the powerful dialogue and narration aspects of the story. What makes this book so powerful is its deeply personal lens focused on a history too often told through politics alone. Rohan brings the story to life with sensory detail and emotional nuance, portraying Hamzi and his descendants not just as survivors but as keepers of memory, love, and land. The novel is grounded in real testimonies, which lends an authenticity that feels both intimate and sweeping. It is a story of dignity, family, and home, written with quiet compassion and lasting impact. Overall, The Olive Grove is a moving and necessary novel that honors the human stories behind history’s headlines, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves stories of cultural roots and long-spanning personal histories.

Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite

Becoming Mariella by Janet Constantino is a heartwarming story about Mariella Russo, a young woman from Sicily eager to find her path and break free from her family's expectations. She feels the weight of her mother Yolanda's dreams, who is excited at the thought of Mariella marrying Matteo, a charming young man from a well-respected, wealthy family. It’s a journey of self-discovery, love, and the struggle to find one’s voice amid family traditions. Torn between her love for Matteo and her fear of losing her independence, Mariella rebels against her family’s wishes. She escapes to San Francisco, where she finds herself in a whirlwind of new experiences, friendships, and love that force her to redefine her identity and confront her fears. As Mariella navigates her relationships with her mother and Matteo, she embarks on a heartfelt journey filled with love, personal freedom, and the strong bonds of family. She grows and discovers more about herself, learning to balance her dreams with her roots and the people she loves most.

I absolutely loved Becoming Mariella. It’s such a captivating and emotional story that tackles the tough balance between family loyalty and finding your path. Mariella's struggles felt real and relatable, and I was impressed with how the author brought her inner conflicts to life. The pacing was just right, mixing those intense, reflective moments with exciting twists in her journey, which kept me hooked the whole time. The characters, particularly Mariella and her mother, are well-developed, with each interaction revealing layers of cultural and generational tension. Mariella’s evolving relationship with Matteo adds an emotional complexity that enriches the narrative, showing love as both a comfort and a challenge to her dreams. The themes of identity, family expectations, and the quest for self really shine in this book, making it a journey that feels personal yet relatable. The author has a wonderful way of bringing both Sicily and San Francisco to life with such vibrant detail, making the settings just as engaging as the characters. Becoming Mariella is a touching and thought-provoking read that had me reflecting on the beautiful balance between who we are and our roots. You might just find it as inspiring as I did.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Desert Brave by Gin Coleman is a women’s fiction novel that follows Kira Fontaine, who arrives in Arabia with a single mission: to find a legendary lost river. Her plans take a dramatic turn when her plane crashes, leaving her stranded in the vast desert. Drawing on her Native American heritage and faith, Kira embarks on a perilous journey for survival. Along the way, she rescues a mythical golden horse and uncovers an ancient mystery in a hidden valley. As she navigates treachery, murder, and love, Kira must decide whether to find her way home or become part of the desert.

Author Gin Coleman expertly blends adventure with rich cultural detail and emotional depth, creating a story that is both thrilling and educational. I loved the natural way that we learn about Kira’s heritage through her whole ethos and way of viewing the world, with a beautifully up-close narrative that shows her every thought and feeling. The author’s vivid and sensory descriptions of the Arabian desert immerse readers in the harsh yet mystical landscape, enhancing the novel’s sense of adventure by letting us feel the moments of struggle and wonder that Kira goes through. She’s also highly resilient and resourceful as a heroine, and this warmth and confidence is carried through into the narrative voice and command of the plot, making readers feel that they’re in safe hands from cover to cover with an inspiring tale of adventure and bravery. The intricate storyline is well-paced and filled with mystery, danger, and romance, keeping readers engaged until the highly satisfying conclusion. Overall, Desert Brave is a must-read for fans of moving personal journeys of discovery, nature, and survival.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

To Do Justice is a work of fiction in the recent historical, cultural issues, and slice-of-life genres, and is the final novel in the Chicago Trilogy penned by author Frank S. Joseph. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. Set against the backdrop of the 1965-66 Chicago race riots, the story follows Pinkie, a biracial orphan from Chicago’s harshest streets, and Mollie, a white Associated Press reporter. Together, they embark on a journey to discover the identity of Pinkie’s birth mother while navigating the racial turmoil and corruption of the era. Through their quest, they aim to achieve both a personal breakthrough and a Pulitzer-worthy story, set amid Martin Luther King Jr.'s fair housing campaign and the city's social unrest.

Author Frank S. Joseph uses research, context, and detail to craft a powerful and immersive novel that brings the racial tensions and social complexities of 1960s Chicago vividly to life. The portrayal of Pinkie, a vulnerable yet resilient young girl, juxtaposed with Mollie’s determination to uncover the truth, created a compelling narrative that was both heart-wrenching and inspiring. I was impressed with the narrative detail around their attitudes, speech, and thought presentation. I felt a deep empathy for Pinkie as she navigated the dangers of the streets and the uncertainty of her identity, while Mollie’s journalistic drive offered much-needed urgency and moral questioning in the story. There’s a clear purpose in the confident storytelling style and so much nuance to think about along the way. The historical context of the Chicago race riots and Martin Luther King Jr.'s campaign provided a poignant backdrop that connects readers to contemporary struggles for racial justice. Joseph’s ability to weave personal stories with broader social themes left me thinking about the enduring impact of past conflicts on today’s society and the importance of pursuing truth in the face of adversity. A powerful lesson indeed from a very entertaining and worthwhile read. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend To Do Justice to readers everywhere.

Reviewed by Munir Muhammad for Readers' Favorite

Half a Cup of Sand and Sky by Nadine Bjursten is a masterfully crafted novel that seamlessly blends personal narratives with the backdrop of political upheaval and cultural nuances. Amineh's character is the heart and soul of the story, and readers become deeply invested in her journey. Her internal struggles, her complex emotions, and her quest for self-expression through writing make her a relatable and multi-dimensional protagonist. As she grapples with her evolving relationships and the changing world around her, Amineh's character growth is both compelling and authentic. The novel's setting, against the backdrop of Tehran during a time of political upheaval, is vividly depicted. Bjursten's attention to historical and cultural details immerses readers in the complexities of Iran's social and political landscape. The author's portrayal of the Iranian Revolution and its impact on ordinary lives is both informative and thought-provoking, providing valuable insights into a pivotal period in history. The relationships between the characters are a true highlight of the novel. Amineh and Farzad's dynamic is central to the narrative, and their journey as a couple is portrayed with depth and realism. The supporting characters, including Ava, Dariush, and Jalalod-Din, add richness and authenticity to the story, each character contributing to the tapestry of emotions and experiences.

Bjursten's prose is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the settings and fully immersing readers in the world of the characters. The descriptions of places like the rose farm in Qamsar and the garden in Masuleh are particularly captivating. The novel explores profound themes of love, loss, guilt, and the pursuit of personal and political ideals. The characters' struggles and dilemmas are intricately woven into the larger societal issues they face, creating a narrative that resonates on multiple levels. Bjursten's ability to interweave personal and political narratives adds depth and complexity to the story. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into the characters' lives, their joys, sorrows, and the difficult choices they must make. The novel's exploration of themes like healing and resilience underscores the enduring strength of the human spirit. The epilogue provides a poignant and satisfying conclusion, leaving readers with a sense of closure and a reminder of the importance of gratitude and kindness even in the face of life's challenges. Nadine Bjursten's storytelling is both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating, making it a must-read for lovers of literary fiction. This novel is a testament to the power of literature to transport readers to different times and places while exploring the universal themes of the human experience.

Reviewed by Vernita Naylor for Readers' Favorite

To Kill A Unicorn by DC Palter centers around SuprDupr, a startup tech company in Silicon Valley. One day Sumire, now a lawyer, walked into her ex-boyfriend Ted Hara’s office. The last time they saw each other was years ago. Ted thought she came to see him because she missed him and wanted to rekindle their romantic relationship but she needed his help to locate her missing brother, Ryu. The reader will enjoy the exchange between Ted and Sumire as he tries to relive his past relationship with her. However, her main focus is not on him but on utilizing his excellent hacking skills and his resources from MeCan, a popular phone company, to track down Ryu’s whereabouts. He also wants to find out what happened to his childhood friend and has high hopes that if he finds Ryu he can win back Sumire’s affection.

SuprDupr appears to be your typical start-up company with its high-level C Suite positions, venture capitalists and funding investors but what makes this book by DC Palter stand out is how the plot twists and turns as you are let into what is brewing behind the scenes. In To Kill A Unicorn, nothing is as it seems because there are so many layers weaving in and out. I began to put myself in Ted’s shoes and think about how I would utilize his access to MeCan and hacking skills to help find Ryu. As the stakes got higher and Ted put his life in danger, I felt like I was there every step of the way as Ted worked feverishly to crack the case. At times it was like watching a movie. I felt myself making comments to Ted throughout reading the book. Get ready for a wild ride with this book today.

Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite

Ellen Mason's No Space for Love is a spellbinding, moving tale about abuse, survival, societal issues, and history. Ha-na and Seng-il are forced to go through monumental challenges while striving to survive chaotic political conditions in North Korea and China. Ha-na is betrayed by her own father, sold like a slave, and abused by ruthless men as she fights to endure her unfortunate reality. With her cherished baby and an empathetic friend, Ha-na lives every day close to the brink of completely giving up. Seng-il faces a similar reality as he gradually finds out the truth about North Korea's government and other countries. He hopes to lose his accent and blend in among the Chinese while risking imprisonment and succumbing to violence. Will Ha-na and Seng-il escape the dangers that surround them and find love in their hearts? 

The protagonists are very likable and inspiring. Ha-na is strong, caring, and emotional. I was astounded by her desire to give her daughter a good life despite facing multiple abusive situations. I loved the orderly storytelling style. The tale focuses on Ha-na's story and Seng-il's journey separately before depicting both of them together. No Space for Love maintains an unpredictable plot throughout, with near-death experiences and welcome interventions. The narrative smoothly merges a wide range of themes, including motherhood, friendship, family separation, faith in Christ, imprisonment, migration, prostitution, discrimination, and more. Ellen Mason's expertly crafted book will compel you to feel strongly for its endearing characters and enlighten you about distinctive historical moments and cultures. A touching novel you can't afford to miss!

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

A Switch in Time: The President is Missing by Casi McLean is an interesting variation on the time travel theme and one which captures the reader’s imagination and interest. President Emery Clayton III is facing an America torn by division, strife, and violence (sound familiar?). Taking a break from the stresses of White House life, Emery is hiding in an attic, away from the constant demands and worries of the position. Stored in the attic is the old Oval Office Resolution Desk. When Emery innocently touches and reads a quotation scratched into the wood, he finds himself transported back in time, into the body of his grandfather, Clayton Emery, in 1960s America. An accountant, Clayton is on his way to Australia to pitch a new project for the large accounting firm he works for. A tragic plane accident will find Clay, his colleague Lou, and James Rucker, an angry, young black man who despises white intolerance and is a tireless campaigner for black civil rights, all stranded on a deserted island awaiting hopeful rescue. What these three men go through on the island will shape their destinies for the rest of their lives. What President Clayton discovers, on his return to the present day, is a vast international conspiracy to destabilize American democracy, ‘the American experiment’, one that would throw the country into anarchy.

A Switch in Time captivated my imagination from the very beginning. The idea that not only did the President travel back through time but was inserted into someone else’s body (his grandfather’s) was an inspired concept and I was intrigued to see how this would play out. Author Casi McLean’s mother, Eleanor LaRue, was actually the author of the original manuscript back in 1960 and Casi is to be commended for completing it and bringing it to the market. It is a fine tribute to her mother’s efforts. I particularly enjoyed the development of the relationship between Clayton and James as each came to realize that their perceptions of the other were colored by their own upbringings and ingrained prejudices and that if they were to survive, they would have to rely on each other. The author comments in the blurb that her mother was way ahead of her time in her thinking and the story absolutely bears out this assertion. In many ways, the America of the book’s present time is remarkably similar to the America we face today. What struck me most about this fascinating, easy-to-read story was not the idea that hate is taught and learned but that it can be changed and a new direction can be taken. The injustices James Rucker had faced from an early age were an accurate reflection of society in America back in the 1960s but are equally visible and relevant in today’s society. This was a fun read but also thought-provoking, especially around issues of prejudice, race, and how we treat our fellow human beings. I can highly recommend it.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

The Invisible Red String by Peter Berlin and Ann Zachariah invites readers into a world where the ancient concept of an invisible red string intricately weaves love, fate, and healing together. This metaphorical bond connects people across time and space. The novel is uplifting and thought-provoking, delving into the spiritual and emotional journeys of characters whose lives become interconnected through unexpected circumstances. The story centers around John, a successful entrepreneur and devoted father to his son, Noah, who has Down Syndrome. His chance discovery of a mysterious notice promising “hidden treasure” leads him to Soul Haven, a therapy group facilitated by the empathetic Dr. Kathy Rodrigues. What initially seems like an ordinary group session transforms into a profound journey of self-discovery and connection. John, along with fellow group members Anna, Jake, and Lilly, uncovers deep emotional ties that transcend culture, race, and time.

Peter Berlin and Ann Zachariah masterfully craft vivid, multi-dimensional characters that are easy to empathize with, making their personal growth deeply inspiring. The book’s philosophical underpinnings, especially the idea of the red string connecting people beyond rational understanding, elevate it to a realm beyond conventional love stories. Each character brings a rich backstory, and their stories blend to form a narrative that’s as much about healing and redemption as it is about love. Through their interactions, the authors explore the depth of human relationships, the lingering effects of trauma, and the possibility of spiritual connections that guide us. The Invisible Red String is a cultural novel you won’t want to miss.