Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite

Paintings of Amelia by Darius Omar tells the story of Lila and Ali, a young, newlywed Persian couple undergoing unexpected challenges that impact their faith and moral code. Their tale unfolds in Chabahar, Iran, where cultural norms and arranged marriages often conflict with individual freedoms. The book touches on Lila's struggles with her inner turmoil while forming a deep bond with a teen street performer and the girl's younger brother. Concurrently, it explores Ali's friendship with Nabil, his best friend since childhood. Ultimately, Lila and Ali's outwardly stable life in Chabahar is disrupted by a heartrending betrayal, exposing them to forces they never envisioned they would one day face. This story records their profound journey while navigating a complex world dictated by social and cultural practices.

Paintings of Amelia is a highly evocative tale that delves into critical issues like societal expectations, gender-related issues, and class inequality. Darius Omar's writing is alluring and relatable, making it easy for readers to relate to the many powerful themes in this book. What truly sets this incredible novel apart is its overall message. Through Lila's and Ali's distinct journeys, we are reminded of the significance of our inner strength, faith, and prowess in structuring our narratives despite the hardships we encounter during our journeys. The author crafts a well-researched tale that combines and represents Persian culture and its societal structure. His attention to historical detail enhances the storyline while making Lila and Ali's story more identifiable to readers unacquainted with Persian customs. Paintings of Amelia is a must-have for readers who appreciate emotional tales and culturally intriguing narratives. You'll remember this story long after you've turned the last page.

Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite

A horrible car accident takes the life of a little girl. One of the witnesses, Charlotte Oakes, doesn't want to believe that she saw her car driving away after hitting the child. Charlotte suspects that her alcohol-addicted daughter, Libby, was behind the wheel of her dark blue Prius. Another witness is a police officer named Ed Kelly. He returns to the intersection, filming the cars and searching for the Prius with a yellow decal. Ed is temporarily suspended while the internal investigation of the death of his partner and best friend, Tommy, is underway. Charlotte struggles with her failed marriage and is pregnant with her lover's child. She often brings flowers to the memorial at the intersection. Strangely, Charlotte and Ed open up to each other and become friends. Yet, she cannot confess her suspicions to Ed. Will the truth find its way out? Fans of drama and women's fiction will enjoy Intersections by Karen F. Uhlmann.

Intersections is a stirring and poignant read. Karen F. Uhlmann masterfully narrates this story from two different points of view. It seems that a lifestylist, Charlotte, and a police officer, Ed, have little in common. But both face an uncertain future, and Uhlmann reminds us that nothing is stable in our lives, whether we like it or not. The author thoroughly explores the theme of motherhood and raises many difficult questions, including those about surrogacy and in vitro fertilization. Uhlmann provides us with different opinions and even explains the stance of the Catholic Church. The author's balanced approach allows us to draw unbiased conclusions. Charlotte is a lovable character, even if we sometimes disagree with her. Ed reveals his unexpected side at the end. Uhlmann's simple writing style adds realism to her emotional, riveting prose. I hope that Charlotte's story continues, and I highly recommend this book to those appreciating psychological fiction.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Spin Cycle: Notes from a Reluctant Caregiver by Alfredo Botello is a poignant exploration of the complexities, challenges, and moments of joy faced by caregivers of elderly parents. Through the lens of Ezra Pavic, the novel examines the emotional roller coaster of caregiving, portraying genuine and unfiltered moments of guilt, anger, and fleeting hope. Botello crafts an authentic story that connects with those facing the difficulties of dementia and eldercare. Ezra’s story unfolds with poignant reflection as he grapples with the challenges of caring for his mother. The writing captures both the frustration and tenderness inherent in such a relationship. Ezra’s candid admissions of his failures and self-doubt make him intensely relatable. The novel avoids romanticizing caregiving, instead presenting it for what it truly is—a complicated journey filled with moments of triumph and defeat.

This is a story that will pull at your heartstrings. Alfredo Botello’s writing is raw, emotional, and honest. The story adds richness through the character interactions when Ezra starts the fictional support group Adults Patiently Parenting Adults (APPA). What makes this novel unique is the balance between emotional depth and levity. Botello provides just enough humor to relieve the heaviness of dementia. Ezra and his friend Danny exchange dialogue so realistically that it’s often difficult to remember it’s fiction. Anyone who has been a caregiver for a loved one with dementia will find a deep connection with this story. Botello provides a voice for those who often feel unseen and unappreciated. Compassion, humanity, and redemption themes provide readers with catharsis and reflection. Spin Cycle is an essential read for those wanting to grasp the emotional complexities of caregiving or seeking connection in their experiences. It’s a beautifully told story, ending with helpful discussion questions.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Blood Brothers (A Dying Truth Exposed, Book Five) is an expansive historical portrayal of family life for Native Americans and African Americans in the years leading up to the Civil War and beyond. Annabelle Lightening-Strongman had years ago escaped from the plantation, where she had been a slave, to Cherokee lands where she had married a Cherokee man and begun to raise a family. Annabelle had left behind her greatest friend, the plantation owner’s daughter, Judy Mays. Now, her son, a half-Cherokee, Joseph, had been kidnapped and sold into slavery. Determined to find her missing son, Annabelle and her husband John leave no stone unturned in their hunt for Joseph. Ironically, Joseph is now a field slave on the Plecker’s Mississippi plantation not very far from Judy May’s parents' own plantation. So begins a sweeping familial adventure that is the conclusion of what is no doubt an epic series.

Blood Brothers is a truly sweeping tale of familial love and a telling portrayal of the terrible abuse and mistreatment of both African-American slaves and Native American people. But it is so much more than that. The novel explores the roots of systemic racism; the forced takeover and theft of Native American land; the deliberate policy of assimilation and extinction of the tribes that formed the Native population of America. Threads of an overwhelming sense of family, love, and tolerance are intertwined throughout the narrative. The author does a wonderful job of dropping gems of background information into the story so this can be read as a standalone. I was surprised to learn that many who did escape from slavery in the South sought refuge in Native American tribes and that marriages and children were common. The character development is superb and with such a wide range of characters and perspectives, the story has great depth and cultural significance. I particularly appreciated the female characters such as Riza, Lizzie, Annabelle, and many others who were all fiercely independent, strong, and assertive in an era when they had no right to be. The strength of these women is what would keep the Lightening-Strongman legacy alive and flourishing despite the many travails, relocations, and disappointments. This is a truly wonderful read that I highly recommend.

Reviewed by P. Rosenthal for Readers' Favorite

Surviving Southwood Avenue is a fictional biography that starts in 1920s Ohio. Clara is an “independent, fierce, quick-witted” and beautiful woman. Even though she is obsessed with her first love, Richard, Clara ends up marrying Frank. Their seemingly stable life is disrupted when Clara rekindles her relationship with Richard, ultimately choosing to run away with him. Her family is left shattered. Unaware of the dark secrets it holds, Frank moves Charles, Eleanor, Bob, and Stella to a boarding house. The children decide to remain silent, fearing both the abusive matron's retributions and not wanting to upset their father further. This poignant story, based on author Melissa Simonye's grandmother Stella's life, delves into a family's heartbreak and eventual triumphs.

"…if you only focus on the ‘whys’ in life, then you will never understand the ‘why nots’ in life.” The vivid descriptions create a mental movie of one family’s life during the 1920s and 1930s. Prepare for a raw emotional experience. Surviving Southwood Avenue stuns the senses with its pure honesty. The story's intimacy amplifies themes of love, betrayal, weakness, and survival. The believable dialogue enriches the reality of each character’s experience and allows the reader to become invested in their welfare. Stella, the star protagonist, is an extraordinary spirit and a model of self-worth. Set time aside. This is a fast-paced, can’t-put-it-down book. Melissa Simonye’s labor of love is a fantastic tribute to her grandmother, Stella. Fans of memoirs, historical fiction, and drama will not want to miss Surviving Southwood Avenue.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Missing Puzzle Piece fits into the historical drama, suspense, and family saga subgenres and is the fourth novel in the Dying Truth Exposed series. The work is best suited for mature adult readers owing to some scenes of sex and violence. Penned by author Marcus Abston, this gripping continuation of the Lighting-Strongman family saga sees Annabelle's legacy take center stage. The family faces new challenges and unforeseen trials, particularly regarding the search for Annabelle's missing young son, Joseph. The story is set in a perilous era, and the family must weather separation, clinging to their faith and values. As Annabelle delves into her past, an impending storm of change draws closer. Little does she know that her past is catching up with her, with Joseph at its heart. The narrative introduces new friendships and sparks a rebellion that eventually leads to a stunning revelation.

Author Marcus Abston has crafted a story with an intricate psychological feel to it that expertly explores the emotional depths of this family's journey, their determination to reunite, and their pursuit of the truth. The descriptions, attitudes, and setting of the work bring together a convincing sense of the historical period, the central family drama that is logically and authentically related to these hard times, and the suspense of all their interpersonal histories, creating a riveting narrative that keeps readers engaged and eager to discover the family's secrets. Abston's storytelling is captivating, with a keen sense of character development and dramatic tension that leaves readers wanting more. I was particularly impressed by the dialogue, which moves the story on without huge amounts of chunky prose and balances itself perfectly between period authenticity and accessibility for modern readers. Overall, The Missing Puzzle Piece is a compelling addition to the existing series and a must-read for those who enjoy multi-generational family sagas with a blend of mystery and historical context.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Deadly Secrets from Pond Island is a work of fiction in the mystery, suspense, and crime subgenres, and it forms part of the Vanessa Hutchins series of mystery novels. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. Penned by author Olivia Raymond, the plot follows our series star, Vanessa Hutchins, a successful lawyer on the brink of a senior partnership, who experiences a transformative vision. This vision prompts her to abandon her legal career, buy a house sight unseen, and escape the city in search of a more meaningful life. However, her new beginning takes an unexpected turn when she discovers her new home is filled with a hoard of secrets spanning decades. As Vanessa begins to discover the truth behind the hidden secrets, she realizes the town's revered heroes might be involved in a dark conspiracy.

Author Olivia Raymond has penned a truly compelling page-turner that deftly explores themes of discovery, justice, and the consequences of unveiling hidden truths. The characters are well-crafted and relatable, and the small-town setting adds an intimacy to the story that amps up the tension by making everything else feel very closed in. One of the features I especially liked was the personality in the narrative, which blends traditional mystery tropes with a fresh touch of wit and a great undercurrent of genuine emotion to keep things realistic and resonant. Overall, reading Deadly Secrets from Pond Island was an engaging experience rocketing through a plot masterfully woven with suspenseful twists and turns, and I’d highly recommend it to other mystery and thriller fans to enjoy.

Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite

The Fragility of Light is a psychological thriller by Heather Lonczak. When Sunny was eight years old, her mother Gracie passed away, leaving her father Peter to raise her, and he enlisted the help of his parents. Sunny had a deep affection for her loving grandparents, Baba and Papa, who supported her. After meeting at San Diego State University, Joshua Fitzpatrick and Sylvia "Sunny" Zielinski married the summer following graduation. Sunny became annoyed with her wedding guests when they laughed at her being smeared with cake and threw cake at them. Sunny had a dream job as a book editor but, following heartbreaking deaths in the family, she had a breakdown at work one day. Sunny discovered she had a schizoaffective disorder and became aware of her mother's mental health issues.

The Fragility of Light by Heather Lonczak is a complex and emotional read. This dramatic page-turner hooked me, and it was hard to put down. Issues related to mental health, trauma, resilience, and the enduring strength of family ties were sensitively addressed. Sunny's, Joshua's, and Peter's points of view are shown throughout the chapters. Joshua wanted to understand Sunny's condition and help in her recovery even though he was unfamiliar with her mental health issues. Joshua, Peter, and his wife did everything possible to ensure Sunny had the best care possible. This story was excellently written and kept me on the edge of my seat. I learned that people can live with their mental condition if they have a solid support network.

Reviewed by Cecelia Hopkins for Readers' Favorite

Finding Imogene by Teri Case introduces Frances and quickly establishes her controlling yet intensely vulnerable personality that makes her children, Art and Jean, avoid family dinners. A seemingly routine visit to the pathology lab triggers flashbacks to her childhood cancer and redeeming friendship with fellow sufferer, Imogene. The bad news that the cancer has returned sets a deadline for completing all her unfinished business. Frances asks her children to assist her in resolving the mystery of what had happened to Imogene, who she always feared fell prey to a child molester. Daughter Jean takes on the bulk of the investigation and begins to feel more sympathy for her mother as the layers peel away. Will the family be able to deal with the shocking truth?

Finding Imogene by Teri Case is a beautifully narrated and emotional thriller. I empathized with each of the characters and was enthralled by the unexpected plot twists. I admired the clever way the author has embedded stories within stories, including imperfect memories and procedural cover-ups to be disclosed. I enjoyed meeting both the adult Frances and the child version of “Frannie." Jean’s journey of discovery was also very engaging and I found myself hoping for the best outcome for this character, her husband and child. There were a few uncomfortable moments as grief, sickness, and death are subjects of the story, but they fitted in perfectly and were handled with authorial expertise. I also liked the way all the characters had multiple aspects and also found this realistic because nobody is faultless in real life. Overall, Finding Imogene by Teri Case is a complex and intriguing psychological novel.

Reviewed by Cecelia Hopkins for Readers' Favorite

Elizabeth’s Mountain by Lucille Guarino cleverly interweaves Elizabeth's twilight years with the new adult blossoming of her granddaughter Amanda. Commencing with Elizabeth’s ninetieth birthday party, it explores her memories of childhood and the tragic death of her first love, Robbie. A mourning period is followed by an emotional revival through friendship and courtship by her husband, Joseph. Amanda has left an unsatisfying relationship and moved into the house to provide Elizabeth with companionship. The young nurse attends a workplace training where she meets lawyer Jesse Taylor. The development of her relationship is pleasingly paced to match Elizabeth’s reminiscences.

Elizabeth’s Mountain by Lucille Guarino is a thoughtful and poignant novel that fulfills the reader's expectations of women’s literature. I liked that the story had two heroines from different generations. Elizabeth’s memories evoked the glamour and nostalgia of historical literature, while Amanda’s life contained the sparkle of contemporary romance. The two women seemed compatible because of temperament, family ties, and the mutual choice of nursing as their vocation. The house on the mountain formed the perfect background for multigenerational living. I enjoyed the exploration of aging, which was adroitly tempered with the sense that the older heroine, Elizabeth, had remained young at heart. Joseph was a solid and slightly damaged hero, providing the appropriate match for Elizabeth. Jesse was charming and mysterious, creating interest as Amanda’s romantic partner. The style was smooth and the dialogue flowed naturally, creating a relaxing reading experience. Elizabeth’s Mountain by Lucille Guarino presents a variety of interactions with family and friends and reflects the variability of life.