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Recommend this book:
The Torus Run
Harry Buck
2025 Finalist
402 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Torus Run is a high-octane science fiction novel by Harry Buck. In the high-tech sprawl of post-Blackout San Francisco, Stash Novak’s future is about to be rewritten by his own creation. His AI Twin, Zero, is evolving fast, on the verge of becoming smarter than anyone alive. But not everyone wants that future. With enemies closing in, including NSA agents, corporate competitors, and rogue hackers, Stash is forced to make a dangerous choice: risk everything in the digital labyrinth of the Torus or let Zero be destroyed. This razor-sharp sci-fi thriller is where consciousness, morality, and technology collide in spectacular fashion. Part cyberpunk, part cautionary tale, it’s a chillingly plausible vision of AI’s next leap and humanity’s precarious role in it.
Author Harry Buck has a superb sense of pacing to keep readers constantly on the edge of their seats, and that has resulted in this relentless sci-fi thriller with heart, brain, and bite. I loved the unique combination of ideas, and each one is introduced with a natural sense of context that makes great sense. This author takes us on a mind-bending narrative where the future of AI isn’t just a concept, but a countdown. This is a chillingly apt premise for our modern day, and Buck brilliantly captures the tension between innovation and control in a world on the brink of chaos that feels disturbingly familiar. This made me root for Stash all the more as the stakes around his and Zero’s entwined fates increased. The emotive narration lets you sit on his shoulder and experience his anguish firsthand. Overall, The Torus Run is a brilliant read that’s as smart as it is cinematic, and I’d certainly recommend it as top-tier speculative fiction that keeps you guessing.
The Torus Run is a high-octane science fiction novel by Harry Buck. In the high-tech sprawl of post-Blackout San Francisco, Stash Novak’s future is about to be rewritten by his own creation. His AI Twin, Zero, is evolving fast, on the verge of becoming smarter than anyone alive. But not everyone wants that future. With enemies closing in, including NSA agents, corporate competitors, and rogue hackers, Stash is forced to make a dangerous choice: risk everything in the digital labyrinth of the Torus or let Zero be destroyed. This razor-sharp sci-fi thriller is where consciousness, morality, and technology collide in spectacular fashion. Part cyberpunk, part cautionary tale, it’s a chillingly plausible vision of AI’s next leap and humanity’s precarious role in it.
Author Harry Buck has a superb sense of pacing to keep readers constantly on the edge of their seats, and that has resulted in this relentless sci-fi thriller with heart, brain, and bite. I loved the unique combination of ideas, and each one is introduced with a natural sense of context that makes great sense. This author takes us on a mind-bending narrative where the future of AI isn’t just a concept, but a countdown. This is a chillingly apt premise for our modern day, and Buck brilliantly captures the tension between innovation and control in a world on the brink of chaos that feels disturbingly familiar. This made me root for Stash all the more as the stakes around his and Zero’s entwined fates increased. The emotive narration lets you sit on his shoulder and experience his anguish firsthand. Overall, The Torus Run is a brilliant read that’s as smart as it is cinematic, and I’d certainly recommend it as top-tier speculative fiction that keeps you guessing.
Recommend this book:
A Wolff in the Family
A Novel
Francine Falk-Allen
2025 Honorable Mention
392 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
A Wolff in the Family by Francine Falk-Allen is a riveting narrative based on true events, weaving together a tapestry of family strife and resilience against the backdrop of early 20th-century America. The story explores the complexities of the Wolff family, marked by themes of misogyny, prejudice, and profound passion. The story begins with Frank and Naomi Wolff, a couple whose marriage seemed destined for happiness. Settling in Ogden, Utah, their union flourished despite Frank’s demanding job as a railroad engineer, which frequently took him away from home. Naomi, a Kansas farmgirl turned devoted mother of fourteen children, epitomized the era’s ideal of domesticity, where her days were consumed with child-rearing and managing a bustling household. However, Frank’s decision to place their younger children in an orphanage far from home marks a pivotal scandal in the Wolff family history, shrouded in secrecy for eighty years.
What’s notably apparent is that Francine Falk-Allen has meticulously researched A Wolff in the Family to deliver a compelling tale that captures the essence of a bygone era. The narrative is compassionate, and Falk-Allen tells the story with emotional depth and historical authenticity. A glossary at the beginning of the book helps readers with keeping track of the many characters and their position in the family hierarchy. Naomi is a character readers will care about and root for as she has amazing resilience and determination. Without giving away too much, Falk-Allen wrote Frank so perfectly that readers may find they have a love/hate relationship with him. Overall, A Wolff in the Family is a poignant and thought-provoking read about the power of forgiveness and the enduring legacy of secrets kept hidden throughout generations.
A Wolff in the Family by Francine Falk-Allen is a riveting narrative based on true events, weaving together a tapestry of family strife and resilience against the backdrop of early 20th-century America. The story explores the complexities of the Wolff family, marked by themes of misogyny, prejudice, and profound passion. The story begins with Frank and Naomi Wolff, a couple whose marriage seemed destined for happiness. Settling in Ogden, Utah, their union flourished despite Frank’s demanding job as a railroad engineer, which frequently took him away from home. Naomi, a Kansas farmgirl turned devoted mother of fourteen children, epitomized the era’s ideal of domesticity, where her days were consumed with child-rearing and managing a bustling household. However, Frank’s decision to place their younger children in an orphanage far from home marks a pivotal scandal in the Wolff family history, shrouded in secrecy for eighty years.
What’s notably apparent is that Francine Falk-Allen has meticulously researched A Wolff in the Family to deliver a compelling tale that captures the essence of a bygone era. The narrative is compassionate, and Falk-Allen tells the story with emotional depth and historical authenticity. A glossary at the beginning of the book helps readers with keeping track of the many characters and their position in the family hierarchy. Naomi is a character readers will care about and root for as she has amazing resilience and determination. Without giving away too much, Falk-Allen wrote Frank so perfectly that readers may find they have a love/hate relationship with him. Overall, A Wolff in the Family is a poignant and thought-provoking read about the power of forgiveness and the enduring legacy of secrets kept hidden throughout generations.
Recommend this book:
A Pleasant Fiction
A Novelistic Memoir
Javier De Lucia
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
A Pleasant Fiction by Javier De Lucia offers readers a raw and emotional exploration of familial loss, personal struggles, and life's unexpected challenges. The story follows Calvin, a man navigating the profound sorrow of losing his parents, brother, and uncle in quick succession. Calvin's family has always sacrificed for his brother, Jared, who faced various health issues. After their mother’s death, their elderly father, with whom Calvin had past conflicts, could no longer care for Jared alone. Consequently, Calvin, his brother Ryan, and their uncle stepped up to support the family, but tragedy continued to strike. By the end of this ordeal, Calvin reflects on this traumatic period and the memories that taught him resilience and the importance of holding on to what truly matters in life.
A Pleasant Fiction is a story about family, duty, and unconditional love. It delves into themes of sacrifice and personal ambition, highlighting how circumstances compel us to take responsibility while prompting reflections on our past actions. Throughout the narrative, Calvin examines his roles as a son, brother, father, husband, and friend, outlining his growth and the pivotal moments that define him. The story captures the struggles of losing parents and caring for a disabled family member. Despite addressing painful topics, the narrative also presents the bittersweet aspects of life, illustrating that even amid hardship, there is room for transformation. Javier De Lucia’s writing is non-linear, weaving together past and present moments from Calvin's life. This structure allows readers to understand the book's lessons and themes better. The connections are clear, painting a vivid picture of Calvin's state of mind. Whenever he encounters something from his family's past in his parents' house, he experiences flashbacks to significant moments in his life. This approach makes the story engaging and unpredictable. I found the book to be insightful, offering valuable lessons about life, family, loss, and responsibility. I highly recommend adding it to your reading list if you enjoy fictional memoirs that cover these topics.
A Pleasant Fiction by Javier De Lucia offers readers a raw and emotional exploration of familial loss, personal struggles, and life's unexpected challenges. The story follows Calvin, a man navigating the profound sorrow of losing his parents, brother, and uncle in quick succession. Calvin's family has always sacrificed for his brother, Jared, who faced various health issues. After their mother’s death, their elderly father, with whom Calvin had past conflicts, could no longer care for Jared alone. Consequently, Calvin, his brother Ryan, and their uncle stepped up to support the family, but tragedy continued to strike. By the end of this ordeal, Calvin reflects on this traumatic period and the memories that taught him resilience and the importance of holding on to what truly matters in life.
A Pleasant Fiction is a story about family, duty, and unconditional love. It delves into themes of sacrifice and personal ambition, highlighting how circumstances compel us to take responsibility while prompting reflections on our past actions. Throughout the narrative, Calvin examines his roles as a son, brother, father, husband, and friend, outlining his growth and the pivotal moments that define him. The story captures the struggles of losing parents and caring for a disabled family member. Despite addressing painful topics, the narrative also presents the bittersweet aspects of life, illustrating that even amid hardship, there is room for transformation. Javier De Lucia’s writing is non-linear, weaving together past and present moments from Calvin's life. This structure allows readers to understand the book's lessons and themes better. The connections are clear, painting a vivid picture of Calvin's state of mind. Whenever he encounters something from his family's past in his parents' house, he experiences flashbacks to significant moments in his life. This approach makes the story engaging and unpredictable. I found the book to be insightful, offering valuable lessons about life, family, loss, and responsibility. I highly recommend adding it to your reading list if you enjoy fictional memoirs that cover these topics.
Recommend this book:
Promising Young Man
Elias Axel
2025 Silver Medal
238 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Stephen Christopher for Readers' Favorite
Oscar Danielsson, nicknamed ‘Old Man’ by his fellow students, is a typical teenager. Well, almost typical, Oscar has ADHD. From Monday to Saturday, his life is one tedious cycle of going to school, then spending the rest of the day and night in his room. He looks forward to Sundays, for that’s the day he works at Oh Henry’s diner. This job gives him a sense of purpose, and despite being late every week, he feels appreciated by both Henry and the diner’s customers. Then, one fateful night, his world falls apart after some bad choices. Somehow, he escapes being arrested, and instead, he has to accompany his grandmother on a road trip from Chicago to California. As they set off in her Mustang convertible, nicknamed the Man Magnet, they had no idea of what was to come. How does the trip go? Do they reach California? Does Oscar have some life-changing experiences? You’ll need to read Promising Young Man by Elias Axel to find out. Believe me, you’ll be glad you did.
What I love the most about Promising Young Man is that it’s an opportunity to get inside the mind of someone with ADHD, and get a little more understanding. I live with someone who has ADHD, and now I’m more educated as to why he says and does the things he does. Inspirational fiction is a new genre for me. If the other authors can write as upliftingly as Elias Axel does, then it’s a genre I’m going to enjoy. I recommend this book to teenagers, with or without ADHD, parents, and teachers. If any of them get even ten percent of what I did from this story, then it’s worth it. Books like Promising Young Man need to be on school curricula. This is a story of resilience, hope, understanding, and realization. Highly recommended.
Oscar Danielsson, nicknamed ‘Old Man’ by his fellow students, is a typical teenager. Well, almost typical, Oscar has ADHD. From Monday to Saturday, his life is one tedious cycle of going to school, then spending the rest of the day and night in his room. He looks forward to Sundays, for that’s the day he works at Oh Henry’s diner. This job gives him a sense of purpose, and despite being late every week, he feels appreciated by both Henry and the diner’s customers. Then, one fateful night, his world falls apart after some bad choices. Somehow, he escapes being arrested, and instead, he has to accompany his grandmother on a road trip from Chicago to California. As they set off in her Mustang convertible, nicknamed the Man Magnet, they had no idea of what was to come. How does the trip go? Do they reach California? Does Oscar have some life-changing experiences? You’ll need to read Promising Young Man by Elias Axel to find out. Believe me, you’ll be glad you did.
What I love the most about Promising Young Man is that it’s an opportunity to get inside the mind of someone with ADHD, and get a little more understanding. I live with someone who has ADHD, and now I’m more educated as to why he says and does the things he does. Inspirational fiction is a new genre for me. If the other authors can write as upliftingly as Elias Axel does, then it’s a genre I’m going to enjoy. I recommend this book to teenagers, with or without ADHD, parents, and teachers. If any of them get even ten percent of what I did from this story, then it’s worth it. Books like Promising Young Man need to be on school curricula. This is a story of resilience, hope, understanding, and realization. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Millionaire Janitor
Unlocking the Hidden Wealth in Everyday Choices
Lorn Bergstresser
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Millionaire Janitor by Lorn Bergstresser is a compelling story that follows Horatio Jefferson, a man raised by a determined single mother who instilled in him the values of respect and hard work. Through Horatio's journey, readers will learn important financial and moral lessons about life. From a young age, Horatio aspired to live a comfortable life, ensuring he could provide for his family and help others. After completing his education, he began searching for a job and was fortunate to land a position as a janitor at his former school. During this time, he met people who offered guidance, mentorship, and inspiration. He married his longtime sweetheart, Melody, and together they decided to save and invest for the future, using her accounting knowledge to change their life trajectories.
Millionaire Janitor presents an entertaining narrative along with valuable financial advice. Horatio and Melody are exemplary characters who live humble and respectful lives. The book explores their love story and highlights seven life principles they learned during marriage counseling, which helped them in various areas of life and in their investment practices that focus on long-term success. Lorn Bergstresser also addresses social issues such as systemic discrimination against ethnic groups, misogyny in the workplace, sexual harassment, and teenage delinquency. Despite these dark themes, the author offers hope to readers who have been told they will remain in poverty forever and that they can never achieve their goals. Attaining success is indeed possible, but it requires patience, dedication, and a positive mindset. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and was satisfied with the reflective ending, which illustrated what it means to live a happy and fulfilled life. Overall, this is great work.
Millionaire Janitor by Lorn Bergstresser is a compelling story that follows Horatio Jefferson, a man raised by a determined single mother who instilled in him the values of respect and hard work. Through Horatio's journey, readers will learn important financial and moral lessons about life. From a young age, Horatio aspired to live a comfortable life, ensuring he could provide for his family and help others. After completing his education, he began searching for a job and was fortunate to land a position as a janitor at his former school. During this time, he met people who offered guidance, mentorship, and inspiration. He married his longtime sweetheart, Melody, and together they decided to save and invest for the future, using her accounting knowledge to change their life trajectories.
Millionaire Janitor presents an entertaining narrative along with valuable financial advice. Horatio and Melody are exemplary characters who live humble and respectful lives. The book explores their love story and highlights seven life principles they learned during marriage counseling, which helped them in various areas of life and in their investment practices that focus on long-term success. Lorn Bergstresser also addresses social issues such as systemic discrimination against ethnic groups, misogyny in the workplace, sexual harassment, and teenage delinquency. Despite these dark themes, the author offers hope to readers who have been told they will remain in poverty forever and that they can never achieve their goals. Attaining success is indeed possible, but it requires patience, dedication, and a positive mindset. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and was satisfied with the reflective ending, which illustrated what it means to live a happy and fulfilled life. Overall, this is great work.
Recommend this book:
Candidly, Carla
Colors of Happiness Book 4
Annette G. Anders
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Candidly, Carla is a work of fiction in the contemporary romance, interpersonal drama, and women’s fiction subgenres, and is the fourth standalone novel in the Colors of Happiness series. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience but contains no explicit material. Penned by author Annette G. Anders, the plot follows Carla Bellini, eager to open her high-end inn on Martha’s Vineyard, and who is focused on her business and not actively seeking a soulmate. However, she soon realizes that her feelings for Damian Foster, her brother's best friend, may be more intense than she had initially thought. Damian, a trendy architect who returns to New England, finds himself grappling with his growing attraction to Carla while navigating his professional success. As their feelings intensify, both Carla and Damian must confront their pasts and make difficult decisions about their futures.
Author Annette G. Anders has crafted a charming novel that presents a rich tapestry of characters and emotions with plenty of dynamic dialogue and emotive description to get readers invested in their stories. Carla's determination to open her inn and her reluctance to pursue romance is the ideal foil for her tough exterior to begin showing vulnerabilities, and I liked the journey for her because she never lost her fierce spirit. Damian's inner struggle was equally well-paced, with some fantastic dialogue allowing us to pick away at his psyche between the lines and see what’s really going on. The unexpected twists and turns, including the introduction of a rival for Carla's affections, give the plot some great pacing and injections of new intrigue, resulting in a compelling narrative that resonates long after the final page is turned. Overall, Candidly, Carla is a highly recommended read for fans of the existing series and an excellent standalone introduction to a brilliant romance author with a great flair for character and atmosphere.
Candidly, Carla is a work of fiction in the contemporary romance, interpersonal drama, and women’s fiction subgenres, and is the fourth standalone novel in the Colors of Happiness series. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience but contains no explicit material. Penned by author Annette G. Anders, the plot follows Carla Bellini, eager to open her high-end inn on Martha’s Vineyard, and who is focused on her business and not actively seeking a soulmate. However, she soon realizes that her feelings for Damian Foster, her brother's best friend, may be more intense than she had initially thought. Damian, a trendy architect who returns to New England, finds himself grappling with his growing attraction to Carla while navigating his professional success. As their feelings intensify, both Carla and Damian must confront their pasts and make difficult decisions about their futures.
Author Annette G. Anders has crafted a charming novel that presents a rich tapestry of characters and emotions with plenty of dynamic dialogue and emotive description to get readers invested in their stories. Carla's determination to open her inn and her reluctance to pursue romance is the ideal foil for her tough exterior to begin showing vulnerabilities, and I liked the journey for her because she never lost her fierce spirit. Damian's inner struggle was equally well-paced, with some fantastic dialogue allowing us to pick away at his psyche between the lines and see what’s really going on. The unexpected twists and turns, including the introduction of a rival for Carla's affections, give the plot some great pacing and injections of new intrigue, resulting in a compelling narrative that resonates long after the final page is turned. Overall, Candidly, Carla is a highly recommended read for fans of the existing series and an excellent standalone introduction to a brilliant romance author with a great flair for character and atmosphere.
Recommend this book:
Summer of Mud
Rebecca Bischoff
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Summer of Mud is a work of fiction in the coming of age, recent historical fiction, and slice-of-life subgenres. The work is best suited to mature teen and adult readers. Penned by author Rebecca Bischoff, the plot follows twelve-year-old Scoob, a musical prodigy dreaming of jazz stardom as she navigates the challenges of the summer of 1976. Landing a gig seems like her big break, but her plans are disrupted when her older brother RC takes her on an unexpected road trip. Stranded in Rexburg, Idaho, they become entangled in a community divided over a newly built dam. As Scoob struggles to return home for her audition, she discovers RC's hidden secrets. When disaster strikes with the dam's leak, Scoob faces a fight for survival and learns what truly matters in life.
Author Rebecca Bischoff puts heart and soul into this emotive coming-of-age tale to craft a captivating experience, immersing readers fully in Scoob's journey of self-discovery and resilience. The vivid depiction of 1976 leaps off the page at you right from the start, bringing the recent past back in full living color with immersive descriptive language and atmospheric, moody undertones. The intricacies of Scoob's relationships, particularly with her brother RC, are well-realized with realistic and amusing dialogue that sets up their complex relationship and lets a lot of the hidden details play out naturally between the lines. The tension builds steadily as the story unfolds, with plenty of heart-wrenching and surprising twists before it culminates in a gripping climax that kept me on the edge of my seat. Overall, readers seeking an emotive drama with masterful storytelling and compelling characters will certainly enjoy Summer of Mud.
Summer of Mud is a work of fiction in the coming of age, recent historical fiction, and slice-of-life subgenres. The work is best suited to mature teen and adult readers. Penned by author Rebecca Bischoff, the plot follows twelve-year-old Scoob, a musical prodigy dreaming of jazz stardom as she navigates the challenges of the summer of 1976. Landing a gig seems like her big break, but her plans are disrupted when her older brother RC takes her on an unexpected road trip. Stranded in Rexburg, Idaho, they become entangled in a community divided over a newly built dam. As Scoob struggles to return home for her audition, she discovers RC's hidden secrets. When disaster strikes with the dam's leak, Scoob faces a fight for survival and learns what truly matters in life.
Author Rebecca Bischoff puts heart and soul into this emotive coming-of-age tale to craft a captivating experience, immersing readers fully in Scoob's journey of self-discovery and resilience. The vivid depiction of 1976 leaps off the page at you right from the start, bringing the recent past back in full living color with immersive descriptive language and atmospheric, moody undertones. The intricacies of Scoob's relationships, particularly with her brother RC, are well-realized with realistic and amusing dialogue that sets up their complex relationship and lets a lot of the hidden details play out naturally between the lines. The tension builds steadily as the story unfolds, with plenty of heart-wrenching and surprising twists before it culminates in a gripping climax that kept me on the edge of my seat. Overall, readers seeking an emotive drama with masterful storytelling and compelling characters will certainly enjoy Summer of Mud.
Recommend this book:
Love, Literally
J. T. Tierney
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
In J.T. Tierney's Love, Literally, during the COVID pandemic, Hallie Bancroft finds herself without a roommate, boyfriend, or job. At her long-time friend Maria's insistence, she moves in with Maria and her husband. Maria's wealthy friends, Lisa and Paul, invite the trio to join them at their expansive second house, as they have felt distanced from human connection. Paul invites his friend, Quinn O'Neill, a college professor who gains Hallie's attention right away. Tensions mount as the six people attempt to cohabit under the restraints of the pandemic. Secrets spill out as Hallie and Quinn explore their feelings for each other, and they wonder if their affair could be more when they leave. When Hallie's ex-boyfriend shows up unexpectedly, Hallie questions her direction in life and who she wants in it.
J.T. Tierney embraces the male and female perspectives through the novel without stereotypes, focusing on Quinn's, Hallie's, and Maria's points of view. Hallie is a forthright and charming middle-aged woman, who enjoys wordplay and appreciates open-minded people. The language and banter between Hallie and Quinn entertained me, as it was a different kind of foreplay. Nineteenth-century British literature amuses the couple, and they value candor. Tierney addresses wealth, sexual orientation, and politics without making it the focus of the work, and readers experience the depth of the characters as they share their pasts and unload secrets. The spark between Hallie and Quinn is strong as they explore whether their romance will dwindle or turn into a roaring blaze. Hallie's views are infectious, and her points are valid, making Love, Literally a good selection for readers who enjoy a strong female protagonist in an uncertain love story.
In J.T. Tierney's Love, Literally, during the COVID pandemic, Hallie Bancroft finds herself without a roommate, boyfriend, or job. At her long-time friend Maria's insistence, she moves in with Maria and her husband. Maria's wealthy friends, Lisa and Paul, invite the trio to join them at their expansive second house, as they have felt distanced from human connection. Paul invites his friend, Quinn O'Neill, a college professor who gains Hallie's attention right away. Tensions mount as the six people attempt to cohabit under the restraints of the pandemic. Secrets spill out as Hallie and Quinn explore their feelings for each other, and they wonder if their affair could be more when they leave. When Hallie's ex-boyfriend shows up unexpectedly, Hallie questions her direction in life and who she wants in it.
J.T. Tierney embraces the male and female perspectives through the novel without stereotypes, focusing on Quinn's, Hallie's, and Maria's points of view. Hallie is a forthright and charming middle-aged woman, who enjoys wordplay and appreciates open-minded people. The language and banter between Hallie and Quinn entertained me, as it was a different kind of foreplay. Nineteenth-century British literature amuses the couple, and they value candor. Tierney addresses wealth, sexual orientation, and politics without making it the focus of the work, and readers experience the depth of the characters as they share their pasts and unload secrets. The spark between Hallie and Quinn is strong as they explore whether their romance will dwindle or turn into a roaring blaze. Hallie's views are infectious, and her points are valid, making Love, Literally a good selection for readers who enjoy a strong female protagonist in an uncertain love story.
Recommend this book:
Tell Me Your Plans
Torres and Firsht
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Tell Me Your Plans is a work of fiction in the interpersonal drama, women’s fiction, and slice-of-life genres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to some sexual references and non-graphic mentions of assault. Penned by author team Torres and Firsht, the work delves into the life of Veronica Rubio, a driven 26-year-old navigating the competitive world of high finance in Los Angeles. Guided by her mantra ‘Luck favors the prepared,’ Veronica focuses on her career, eschewing romance until she turns 30. However, her resolve is tested when she meets Felix Rivas, a charming game designer from East L.A. Their encounter sparks a series of decisions that challenge Veronica's carefully crafted plans, leading to unexpected consequences and a reevaluation of her priorities.
Author team Torres and Firsht have crafted an engaging exploration of ambition, romance, and the complexities of modern life that raises a lot of interesting and important issues for women today. Veronica's character, though flawed, is compelling and relatable, evoking empathy as she grapples with the pressures of her career and the unexpected twists of fate. I found the close narrative style highly effective as it let us into Veronica’s heart and mind, showcasing her shifting attitudes and the way the events of the plot impact her emotional growth. The authors skillfully weave together themes of ambition and love with a great sense of balance, highlighting the tension between personal aspirations and the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in the modern age. Veronica's journey is sure to resonate on a deeper level thanks to the masterful control of speech and thought presentation, prompting reflection on the nature of success and the importance of remaining true to oneself amidst life's uncertainties. Overall, Tell Me Your Plans is a captivating read that offers both entertainment and insight into the human experience, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to fans of intelligently penned women’s drama everywhere.
Tell Me Your Plans is a work of fiction in the interpersonal drama, women’s fiction, and slice-of-life genres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to some sexual references and non-graphic mentions of assault. Penned by author team Torres and Firsht, the work delves into the life of Veronica Rubio, a driven 26-year-old navigating the competitive world of high finance in Los Angeles. Guided by her mantra ‘Luck favors the prepared,’ Veronica focuses on her career, eschewing romance until she turns 30. However, her resolve is tested when she meets Felix Rivas, a charming game designer from East L.A. Their encounter sparks a series of decisions that challenge Veronica's carefully crafted plans, leading to unexpected consequences and a reevaluation of her priorities.
Author team Torres and Firsht have crafted an engaging exploration of ambition, romance, and the complexities of modern life that raises a lot of interesting and important issues for women today. Veronica's character, though flawed, is compelling and relatable, evoking empathy as she grapples with the pressures of her career and the unexpected twists of fate. I found the close narrative style highly effective as it let us into Veronica’s heart and mind, showcasing her shifting attitudes and the way the events of the plot impact her emotional growth. The authors skillfully weave together themes of ambition and love with a great sense of balance, highlighting the tension between personal aspirations and the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in the modern age. Veronica's journey is sure to resonate on a deeper level thanks to the masterful control of speech and thought presentation, prompting reflection on the nature of success and the importance of remaining true to oneself amidst life's uncertainties. Overall, Tell Me Your Plans is a captivating read that offers both entertainment and insight into the human experience, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to fans of intelligently penned women’s drama everywhere.
Recommend this book:
180 Days
Infidelity. Architecture. Punk Rock. Clonazepam.
Alfredo Botello
2024 Gold Medal
356 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Penned by author Alfredo Botello, 180 Days is a work of fiction in the literary, drama, relationships, and family life subgenres. It is best suited to adult readers owing to some strong language, as well as sexual references and discussion of suicide. The plot follows Tomas Araeta and Naomi Curran as their marriage faces a critical juncture. When Tomas strays with a client, Naomi files for divorce, triggering California's mandatory six-month waiting period. Now, with just 180 days before the divorce is finalized, Tomas must win Naomi back. As they navigate their intertwined journeys, they encounter various characters and challenges that force them to confront their own identities and desires. From a reclusive punk-rock star to architectural wonders, they grapple with questions of validation, self-image, and the future of their relationship. On Day 180, they must decide what they truly want and whether they still envision a future together.
Author Alfredo Botello has crafted a moving and character-driven literary work that masterfully delves into the emotional landscape of marriage, portraying the characters' struggles with authenticity and depth. There’s a poignant narrative style that keeps us right on the shoulders of the central pair, hearing every word of their dynamic dialogue and all those clues between the lines that intensify as the story progresses. The pacing keeps the reader engaged as Tomas and Naomi confront their individual demons and navigate the challenges of reconciliation, shifting between different focal points and playing out a good progression of emotive highs and lows that feel naturally placed. The themes of self-discovery and personal growth resonate deeply, prompting reflection on one's own relationships and aspirations. The lingering message about what we truly want out of life stayed with me long after I put the book down. Overall, 180 Days is a compelling narrative and a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships that I would not hesitate to recommend.
Penned by author Alfredo Botello, 180 Days is a work of fiction in the literary, drama, relationships, and family life subgenres. It is best suited to adult readers owing to some strong language, as well as sexual references and discussion of suicide. The plot follows Tomas Araeta and Naomi Curran as their marriage faces a critical juncture. When Tomas strays with a client, Naomi files for divorce, triggering California's mandatory six-month waiting period. Now, with just 180 days before the divorce is finalized, Tomas must win Naomi back. As they navigate their intertwined journeys, they encounter various characters and challenges that force them to confront their own identities and desires. From a reclusive punk-rock star to architectural wonders, they grapple with questions of validation, self-image, and the future of their relationship. On Day 180, they must decide what they truly want and whether they still envision a future together.
Author Alfredo Botello has crafted a moving and character-driven literary work that masterfully delves into the emotional landscape of marriage, portraying the characters' struggles with authenticity and depth. There’s a poignant narrative style that keeps us right on the shoulders of the central pair, hearing every word of their dynamic dialogue and all those clues between the lines that intensify as the story progresses. The pacing keeps the reader engaged as Tomas and Naomi confront their individual demons and navigate the challenges of reconciliation, shifting between different focal points and playing out a good progression of emotive highs and lows that feel naturally placed. The themes of self-discovery and personal growth resonate deeply, prompting reflection on one's own relationships and aspirations. The lingering message about what we truly want out of life stayed with me long after I put the book down. Overall, 180 Days is a compelling narrative and a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships that I would not hesitate to recommend.
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