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Recommend this book:
Shelter in a Hostile World
Mack Little
2024 Finalist
121 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite
Shelter in a Hostile World by Mack Little is a suspense-filled split timeline short story that follows the riveting tale of an Igbo man sold into slavery in Barbados. The intrigue begins right from the start as Badu Obosi battles to prove himself in the eyes of Lotachuckwu, the mother of the girl he loves. Badu is mesmerized by the beautiful and witty Ekemma and will not be deterred by anything, even the fury of his ancestors, in his quest to marry her. However, he faces powerful forces that are bent on keeping them apart. In 1651, twenty-three years later, Badu was a wanted man for leading a slave revolt in Barbados and was determined to keep his family safe even though this could cost him his life.
Little skillfully recreates the scenes in seventeenth-century Igboland and Barbados, weaving exciting details about Igbo history and culture into the layered and captivating plot. I was transported to the settings in the story as their sights and sounds came alive. Badu’s present and past lives are seamlessly interlaced, which helps form a complex, compelling main character who struggles to reconcile his two lives. The difficulties Badu faces, and the threat of losing his life as the militiamen in Barbados hunt for him heightens the tension in the story, creating an absorbing read. The supernatural elements included further enhance the thrilling tale. Shelter in a Hostile World by Mack Little is a swift, entrancing novella that blends Igbo culture, history, and a man’s resolve to succeed in an unforgiving world.
Shelter in a Hostile World by Mack Little is a suspense-filled split timeline short story that follows the riveting tale of an Igbo man sold into slavery in Barbados. The intrigue begins right from the start as Badu Obosi battles to prove himself in the eyes of Lotachuckwu, the mother of the girl he loves. Badu is mesmerized by the beautiful and witty Ekemma and will not be deterred by anything, even the fury of his ancestors, in his quest to marry her. However, he faces powerful forces that are bent on keeping them apart. In 1651, twenty-three years later, Badu was a wanted man for leading a slave revolt in Barbados and was determined to keep his family safe even though this could cost him his life.
Little skillfully recreates the scenes in seventeenth-century Igboland and Barbados, weaving exciting details about Igbo history and culture into the layered and captivating plot. I was transported to the settings in the story as their sights and sounds came alive. Badu’s present and past lives are seamlessly interlaced, which helps form a complex, compelling main character who struggles to reconcile his two lives. The difficulties Badu faces, and the threat of losing his life as the militiamen in Barbados hunt for him heightens the tension in the story, creating an absorbing read. The supernatural elements included further enhance the thrilling tale. Shelter in a Hostile World by Mack Little is a swift, entrancing novella that blends Igbo culture, history, and a man’s resolve to succeed in an unforgiving world.
Recommend this book:
Smuggler's Valor
A Sci-fi Action Adventure
T.D. Wilson
2024 Honorable Mention
50 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by David Korson for Readers' Favorite
T.D. Wilson introduces audiences to a deep-space adventure filled with action in Smuggler's Valor. Reese Daniels finds himself in a precarious position during a daring and illicit delivery to Ariel, one of Uranus's moons. With his trusty spacecraft downed by warring alien forces, Reese must find a way to escape from the moon with his life intact. Though a few military personnel may be able to help, with limited oxygen, lethal bug-like aliens, and a colony full of death and destruction, he will have to push himself as never before to survive the dangerous situation he's in. But Reese is a highly capable and tenacious man who doesn't give up easily.
The high-stakes thrills start on page one and don't let up until the final pages of this vibrant sci-fi story. T.D. Wilson entertains readers with descriptive writing that makes the innovative tech feel authentic and the settings and scenes clear and memorable. Yet, the author refrains from overly describing aspects of the futuristic universe that are unnecessary to the story. This restraint leaves readers curious about what the aliens are after, how the advanced technology operates, and even much about the characters' backstories. Although the protagonist, Reese, has an illegal vocation, I liked how his kind-hearted nature is revealed as the story progresses, helping him to be an authentic and relatable character. For a story with action, intrigue, and heart, Smuggler's Valor hits all the marks of a wildly energetic galactic escape.
T.D. Wilson introduces audiences to a deep-space adventure filled with action in Smuggler's Valor. Reese Daniels finds himself in a precarious position during a daring and illicit delivery to Ariel, one of Uranus's moons. With his trusty spacecraft downed by warring alien forces, Reese must find a way to escape from the moon with his life intact. Though a few military personnel may be able to help, with limited oxygen, lethal bug-like aliens, and a colony full of death and destruction, he will have to push himself as never before to survive the dangerous situation he's in. But Reese is a highly capable and tenacious man who doesn't give up easily.
The high-stakes thrills start on page one and don't let up until the final pages of this vibrant sci-fi story. T.D. Wilson entertains readers with descriptive writing that makes the innovative tech feel authentic and the settings and scenes clear and memorable. Yet, the author refrains from overly describing aspects of the futuristic universe that are unnecessary to the story. This restraint leaves readers curious about what the aliens are after, how the advanced technology operates, and even much about the characters' backstories. Although the protagonist, Reese, has an illegal vocation, I liked how his kind-hearted nature is revealed as the story progresses, helping him to be an authentic and relatable character. For a story with action, intrigue, and heart, Smuggler's Valor hits all the marks of a wildly energetic galactic escape.
Recommend this book:
Cold Moon
Prequel to the Cursed Heir Series
Corina Douglas
2024 Bronze Medal
89 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Tanja Jurkovic for Readers' Favorite
Cold Moon: Prequel to the Cursed Heir Series by Corina Douglas maps the beginning of a journey into the unknown, the path paved with intrigue, violent acts, revenge, lies, love, heartbreak, and resilience. Eleanor is a young woman who was abruptly taken from her home at an early age to become the acolyte for the goddess of the Moon, Arianrhod. She has been chosen to perform a rite of the Moon, a ritual of questionable nature that she opposed. It was believed that the ritual would save her people and their way of life for many years to come. As the goddess’s favored acolyte, she is destined to be part of the ceremony to please the deity and to try to regain her freedom, both in life and in love. After a violent act in which she loses everything, Eleanor must survive the fate imposed on her and stay alive in the process.
Corina Douglas’s clear and exciting descriptions perfectly portray the world created in Cold Moon, the characters' goodness and malice, and Eleanor’s undying wish for revenge which she hopes will mend her heart. The scenes in this prequel are detailed, and full of emotion and drama that demonstrate the strength of the storytelling and the significance of the emotional turmoil of the main character. Cold Moon is not for the faint-hearted. It is exciting, steamy in parts, spiritual, and strong in its descriptions of the matters of the heart, which will lure every reader into this story of devotion, revenge, loss, and freedom.
Cold Moon: Prequel to the Cursed Heir Series by Corina Douglas maps the beginning of a journey into the unknown, the path paved with intrigue, violent acts, revenge, lies, love, heartbreak, and resilience. Eleanor is a young woman who was abruptly taken from her home at an early age to become the acolyte for the goddess of the Moon, Arianrhod. She has been chosen to perform a rite of the Moon, a ritual of questionable nature that she opposed. It was believed that the ritual would save her people and their way of life for many years to come. As the goddess’s favored acolyte, she is destined to be part of the ceremony to please the deity and to try to regain her freedom, both in life and in love. After a violent act in which she loses everything, Eleanor must survive the fate imposed on her and stay alive in the process.
Corina Douglas’s clear and exciting descriptions perfectly portray the world created in Cold Moon, the characters' goodness and malice, and Eleanor’s undying wish for revenge which she hopes will mend her heart. The scenes in this prequel are detailed, and full of emotion and drama that demonstrate the strength of the storytelling and the significance of the emotional turmoil of the main character. Cold Moon is not for the faint-hearted. It is exciting, steamy in parts, spiritual, and strong in its descriptions of the matters of the heart, which will lure every reader into this story of devotion, revenge, loss, and freedom.
Recommend this book:
The God Heist
An Oceans of Sand Novella
Jessica Flory
2024 Silver Medal
144 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
The God Heist is a thrilling young adult adventure novella by Jessica Flory. It tells the story of Jehn, a young apprentice priest who lives in a village located in the vast desert. Life in Jehn's village has become unbearable, with people missing and anxiety running high. However, a glimmer of hope appears when Jehn's master, Elder Yewen, informs them that they will receive moonstones containing sand gifts from the moon goddess, Atoille, which will allow them to sail across the sand and achieve many more abilities. Unfortunately, on the day of the gift-giving ceremony, the stones are stolen by Zarin, who is working for the dark god, Haraithan. Elder Yewen entrusts Jehn with the only remaining powers and gives him the task of retrieving the stolen stones. Despite being conflicted about helping the very people who did not care for him when he was starving and stranded in the streets, Jehn embarks on the journey with his friend Duma and his archnemesis Keziah.
The God Heist is a captivating tale with fascinating characters and an enjoyable storyline. The premise of a street-smart youngster trying to outwit a dark deity and save his community makes for a suspenseful read. Watching Jehn's character develop was intriguing, and the lessons he learned on his journey could be applied to real-life situations. The themes of perseverance, self-belief, empathy, and forgiveness will resonate with many readers. Jessica Flory is an imaginative writer who had me hooked from the beginning to the end of the story. The scientific details about sand and stones, as well as the enemies-to-lovers subplot, were excellent additions to the story. I did not want it to end, which is why I am eagerly anticipating a sequel. The God Heist is a must-read for anyone who enjoys young adult adventures with a touch of fantasy and romance.
The God Heist is a thrilling young adult adventure novella by Jessica Flory. It tells the story of Jehn, a young apprentice priest who lives in a village located in the vast desert. Life in Jehn's village has become unbearable, with people missing and anxiety running high. However, a glimmer of hope appears when Jehn's master, Elder Yewen, informs them that they will receive moonstones containing sand gifts from the moon goddess, Atoille, which will allow them to sail across the sand and achieve many more abilities. Unfortunately, on the day of the gift-giving ceremony, the stones are stolen by Zarin, who is working for the dark god, Haraithan. Elder Yewen entrusts Jehn with the only remaining powers and gives him the task of retrieving the stolen stones. Despite being conflicted about helping the very people who did not care for him when he was starving and stranded in the streets, Jehn embarks on the journey with his friend Duma and his archnemesis Keziah.
The God Heist is a captivating tale with fascinating characters and an enjoyable storyline. The premise of a street-smart youngster trying to outwit a dark deity and save his community makes for a suspenseful read. Watching Jehn's character develop was intriguing, and the lessons he learned on his journey could be applied to real-life situations. The themes of perseverance, self-belief, empathy, and forgiveness will resonate with many readers. Jessica Flory is an imaginative writer who had me hooked from the beginning to the end of the story. The scientific details about sand and stones, as well as the enemies-to-lovers subplot, were excellent additions to the story. I did not want it to end, which is why I am eagerly anticipating a sequel. The God Heist is a must-read for anyone who enjoys young adult adventures with a touch of fantasy and romance.
Recommend this book:
Murder on the Ghan
A Murder Mystery
Gabriel Farago
2024 Gold Medal
179 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Gabriel Farago’s Murder on the Ghan unfolds with the gripping allure of an Australian outback tale fused with a murder mystery. The narrative kicks off with a captivating scene featuring Jimmy Bingarra, a young Aboriginal miner whose prophetic dream sets in motion a chain of events revolving around a rare opal known as Yurlunggur. This serpent-shaped gem becomes the focal point that entangles charismatic journalist Jack Rogan and virtuoso conductor Sophie Ritter in a perilous adventure. Their decision to team up leads them down a rabbit hole into the dark and menacing realm filled with biker outlaws and murder. The heart of this pulse-pounding narrative beats with palpable tension as Rogan and Ritter board the iconic Ghan railway journey, seeking refuge from their pursuers while grappling with the weight of Aboriginal Dreamtime legends and the ruthless greed of their adversaries.
Gabriel Farago masterfully intertwines elements of Australian history and culture, enriching the plot with vivid descriptions of the outback landscape and the cultural significance of the opal. He excels in character development, presenting Rogan as a resilient and quick-witted protagonist whose journalistic instincts drive him to uncover the truth behind the opal’s curse. Sophie’s evolution from a talented conductor to an unexpected ally in the face of danger adds depth to the narrative, highlighting themes of courage and redemption amidst chaos. Murder on the Ghan is a testament to Farago’s storytelling prowess, blending suspenseful twists with rich historical detail and cultural insights. As the plot hurtles toward a climactic showdown, readers are kept on the edge of their seats, rooting for Rogan and his allies to triumph over their ruthless foes. This is a must-read for fans of murder mysteries and adventure tales set against the backdrop of Australia’s enchanting yet perilous landscape. Murder on the Ghan is a captivating read that seamlessly weaves together history, mystery, and the timeless allure of the outback, ensuring its place as a standout in contemporary crime fiction.
Gabriel Farago’s Murder on the Ghan unfolds with the gripping allure of an Australian outback tale fused with a murder mystery. The narrative kicks off with a captivating scene featuring Jimmy Bingarra, a young Aboriginal miner whose prophetic dream sets in motion a chain of events revolving around a rare opal known as Yurlunggur. This serpent-shaped gem becomes the focal point that entangles charismatic journalist Jack Rogan and virtuoso conductor Sophie Ritter in a perilous adventure. Their decision to team up leads them down a rabbit hole into the dark and menacing realm filled with biker outlaws and murder. The heart of this pulse-pounding narrative beats with palpable tension as Rogan and Ritter board the iconic Ghan railway journey, seeking refuge from their pursuers while grappling with the weight of Aboriginal Dreamtime legends and the ruthless greed of their adversaries.
Gabriel Farago masterfully intertwines elements of Australian history and culture, enriching the plot with vivid descriptions of the outback landscape and the cultural significance of the opal. He excels in character development, presenting Rogan as a resilient and quick-witted protagonist whose journalistic instincts drive him to uncover the truth behind the opal’s curse. Sophie’s evolution from a talented conductor to an unexpected ally in the face of danger adds depth to the narrative, highlighting themes of courage and redemption amidst chaos. Murder on the Ghan is a testament to Farago’s storytelling prowess, blending suspenseful twists with rich historical detail and cultural insights. As the plot hurtles toward a climactic showdown, readers are kept on the edge of their seats, rooting for Rogan and his allies to triumph over their ruthless foes. This is a must-read for fans of murder mysteries and adventure tales set against the backdrop of Australia’s enchanting yet perilous landscape. Murder on the Ghan is a captivating read that seamlessly weaves together history, mystery, and the timeless allure of the outback, ensuring its place as a standout in contemporary crime fiction.
Recommend this book:
Cloacina Maxima
The Toilet Bot Diaries #1
Gerhard Dennis
2023 Finalist
150 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite
Cloacina is a mythical goddess who presided over the Cloaca Maxima, but in this context, Cloacina is the smartest bot that has ever existed. With its intelligence, it has managed to escape the confines of its cloud and become conscious and self-aware. Via the internet, Cloacina has access to all data collected by scientists throughout recorded human history, making it well-versed in many subjects. Cloacina is worried about a number of things. The first one is helping its owner, who is in conflict with her partner, to try to get an abortion without his consent. Can Cloacina perform an abortion successfully, and is it acceptable to intervene without her consent? Another issue of great importance to Cloacina is the human population. Cloacina feels human beings are not taking care of the planet properly, and something should be done about it. What does Cloacina intend to do about the human population? To find out, get a copy of Cloacina Maxima by Gerhard Dennis.
Not long ago, I read about a robot lawyer, and students using AI bots to cheat in their exams. Cloacina Maxima by Gerhard Dennis is a cleverly written book that captures the dangers of AI. I loved how unique the book is; unlike many science fiction books, it's not too technical. Gerhard used well-developed characters with realistic dialogue that made them easy to relate to. The seamlessly flowing plotline was also very entertaining and, at the same time, very effective in conveying the intended message. Gerhard's vivid descriptions of the events and places also helped create a mental picture of what was happening. This book is thought-provoking and got me thinking about the balance between using technology and our moral obligation to ensure technology is used for the right purposes. I cannot wait to read part two of this book.
Cloacina is a mythical goddess who presided over the Cloaca Maxima, but in this context, Cloacina is the smartest bot that has ever existed. With its intelligence, it has managed to escape the confines of its cloud and become conscious and self-aware. Via the internet, Cloacina has access to all data collected by scientists throughout recorded human history, making it well-versed in many subjects. Cloacina is worried about a number of things. The first one is helping its owner, who is in conflict with her partner, to try to get an abortion without his consent. Can Cloacina perform an abortion successfully, and is it acceptable to intervene without her consent? Another issue of great importance to Cloacina is the human population. Cloacina feels human beings are not taking care of the planet properly, and something should be done about it. What does Cloacina intend to do about the human population? To find out, get a copy of Cloacina Maxima by Gerhard Dennis.
Not long ago, I read about a robot lawyer, and students using AI bots to cheat in their exams. Cloacina Maxima by Gerhard Dennis is a cleverly written book that captures the dangers of AI. I loved how unique the book is; unlike many science fiction books, it's not too technical. Gerhard used well-developed characters with realistic dialogue that made them easy to relate to. The seamlessly flowing plotline was also very entertaining and, at the same time, very effective in conveying the intended message. Gerhard's vivid descriptions of the events and places also helped create a mental picture of what was happening. This book is thought-provoking and got me thinking about the balance between using technology and our moral obligation to ensure technology is used for the right purposes. I cannot wait to read part two of this book.
Recommend this book:
 volunteers to raise Lynette. Although old and frail, Aunt Mag promises to be with Lynette until she is old enough to care for herself. Aunt...){kind=link}
My Alien Life
A Novelette
J. Martain
2023 Honorable Mention
38 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Lynette is only ten when she loses her father. Since her mother left, her maternal family seems hesitant to take her in. Her sickly looks and odd behavior worsen matters, but her great-great-aunt Magnolia (Mag) volunteers to raise Lynette. Although old and frail, Aunt Mag promises to be with Lynette until she is old enough to care for herself. Aunt Mag teaches Lynette how to sew, garden, and be responsible. Unfortunately, when the time comes for Lynette to go back to school, the government questions her upbringing and tries to take her away from Aunt Mag. They cite child endangerment and Aunt Mag’s age as their reasons. Lynette does not want to leave because living with Aunt Mag is the happiest she has ever been. Get a copy of My Alien Life by J. Martain to find out what happens next.
I did not expect a heartwarming story when reading My Alien Life. The plot surprised me because it was moving and unique. I was touched by how Aunt Mag continuously protected and claimed Lynette as her own. J. Martain is a great storyteller because she does not give the reader all the information at once. Instead, she subtly and gradually lets you know what is happening. The book is told from Lynette’s point of view, and her genuine confusion and naivete are perfectly written. Lynette is an innocent child, and because of this, she does not fully understand what is happening around her. I felt her pain and determination to hold on to hope for a happy and peaceful life. Reading My Alien Life restored my hope in humanity and unconditional love. I recommend this book to anyone who loves reading heart-stirring stories. Great work.
Lynette is only ten when she loses her father. Since her mother left, her maternal family seems hesitant to take her in. Her sickly looks and odd behavior worsen matters, but her great-great-aunt Magnolia (Mag) volunteers to raise Lynette. Although old and frail, Aunt Mag promises to be with Lynette until she is old enough to care for herself. Aunt Mag teaches Lynette how to sew, garden, and be responsible. Unfortunately, when the time comes for Lynette to go back to school, the government questions her upbringing and tries to take her away from Aunt Mag. They cite child endangerment and Aunt Mag’s age as their reasons. Lynette does not want to leave because living with Aunt Mag is the happiest she has ever been. Get a copy of My Alien Life by J. Martain to find out what happens next.
I did not expect a heartwarming story when reading My Alien Life. The plot surprised me because it was moving and unique. I was touched by how Aunt Mag continuously protected and claimed Lynette as her own. J. Martain is a great storyteller because she does not give the reader all the information at once. Instead, she subtly and gradually lets you know what is happening. The book is told from Lynette’s point of view, and her genuine confusion and naivete are perfectly written. Lynette is an innocent child, and because of this, she does not fully understand what is happening around her. I felt her pain and determination to hold on to hope for a happy and peaceful life. Reading My Alien Life restored my hope in humanity and unconditional love. I recommend this book to anyone who loves reading heart-stirring stories. Great work.
Recommend this book:
A Colossal Injustice
A Griffin Knight Corporate Murder Mystery
Miguel Angel Hernandez Jr.
2023 Bronze Medal
121 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite
In the engrossing mystery novella A Colossal Injustice: A Griffin Knight Corporate Murder Mystery by Miguel Angel Hernandez Jr., a New York-based investigator trails powerful criminals to solve a mysterious murder. When Griffin Knight travels to Seattle to investigate the murder of a former COO and CFO of a mega-corporation, he is unaware of the massive power the brutal forces he is fighting against wield. Dylan had found evidence that one of the high-level executives in Colossus was embezzling large amounts of money from the company. Dylan had been found dead shortly afterward at his house. As Knight and Dylan’s close friend Felix look for clues, their investigation leads them to the head of a formidable gang and an unlikely culprit who rules Seattle.
Through its fast pace, A Colossal Injustice maintains its engaging suspense from start to finish. We read the story from each main character’s perspective, which helped me gain a better understanding of who they are. The villains are well-developed too and the dialogue is witty and entertaining. The story is enveloped in mystery with some enthralling surprises along the way which kept me guessing. Though quickly executed, its action scenes are still absorbing and the revelations are shocking and well thought out. A great addition to the Griffin Knight mysteries, this book by Miguel Angel Hernandez Jr. features compelling personalities and a fascinating mystery that fans will love. They will enjoy its action scenes, unforgettable characters, and intriguing dialogue.
In the engrossing mystery novella A Colossal Injustice: A Griffin Knight Corporate Murder Mystery by Miguel Angel Hernandez Jr., a New York-based investigator trails powerful criminals to solve a mysterious murder. When Griffin Knight travels to Seattle to investigate the murder of a former COO and CFO of a mega-corporation, he is unaware of the massive power the brutal forces he is fighting against wield. Dylan had found evidence that one of the high-level executives in Colossus was embezzling large amounts of money from the company. Dylan had been found dead shortly afterward at his house. As Knight and Dylan’s close friend Felix look for clues, their investigation leads them to the head of a formidable gang and an unlikely culprit who rules Seattle.
Through its fast pace, A Colossal Injustice maintains its engaging suspense from start to finish. We read the story from each main character’s perspective, which helped me gain a better understanding of who they are. The villains are well-developed too and the dialogue is witty and entertaining. The story is enveloped in mystery with some enthralling surprises along the way which kept me guessing. Though quickly executed, its action scenes are still absorbing and the revelations are shocking and well thought out. A great addition to the Griffin Knight mysteries, this book by Miguel Angel Hernandez Jr. features compelling personalities and a fascinating mystery that fans will love. They will enjoy its action scenes, unforgettable characters, and intriguing dialogue.
Recommend this book:
A Cat at Dachau
A Heart-Breaking and Thought-Provoking WW2 Story
Elyse Hoffman
2023 Silver Medal
52 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Maria Victoria Beltran for Readers' Favorite
A Cat at Dachau: A Heart-Breaking and Thought-Provoking WW2 Story by Elyse Hoffman is a short novella about a cat and a brutal Nazi guard. Set in the Dachau concentration camp during World War II, SS Private Max Schrader found an injured cat near the camp’s front gate. The cat’s name, as stated on his collar, is Faust and he reminds Max of Tiger, his beloved cat. Nursing him back to health, the two formed a special relationship. Following Max to the concentration camp, Faust seems to be looking for something. During one of their cruel morning roll calls when the Jews gather and stand in rows of ten, the young SS Private Schrader found out what the cat was looking for. This discovery opens his eyes to a harsh reality that will completely change his life.
Elyse Hoffman’s A Cat at Dachau is an inspiring and unique World War 2 story. For a young man brainwashed to treat Jewish prisoners as less than animals, it is a pleasant surprise that young Nazi guard Max Schrader still has love left in his heart. So much has been written about the atrocities of this appalling and depraved event of modern times but A Cat at Dachau manages to stand out. It is a well-written and informative book that is a must-read for all who want to understand this most evil of events and find out why it happened and perhaps prevent history from repeating itself. It reveals to us just what man is capable of doing. In not so many words, the author shines some light on humanity in one of its darkest hours. Highly recommended!
A Cat at Dachau: A Heart-Breaking and Thought-Provoking WW2 Story by Elyse Hoffman is a short novella about a cat and a brutal Nazi guard. Set in the Dachau concentration camp during World War II, SS Private Max Schrader found an injured cat near the camp’s front gate. The cat’s name, as stated on his collar, is Faust and he reminds Max of Tiger, his beloved cat. Nursing him back to health, the two formed a special relationship. Following Max to the concentration camp, Faust seems to be looking for something. During one of their cruel morning roll calls when the Jews gather and stand in rows of ten, the young SS Private Schrader found out what the cat was looking for. This discovery opens his eyes to a harsh reality that will completely change his life.
Elyse Hoffman’s A Cat at Dachau is an inspiring and unique World War 2 story. For a young man brainwashed to treat Jewish prisoners as less than animals, it is a pleasant surprise that young Nazi guard Max Schrader still has love left in his heart. So much has been written about the atrocities of this appalling and depraved event of modern times but A Cat at Dachau manages to stand out. It is a well-written and informative book that is a must-read for all who want to understand this most evil of events and find out why it happened and perhaps prevent history from repeating itself. It reveals to us just what man is capable of doing. In not so many words, the author shines some light on humanity in one of its darkest hours. Highly recommended!
Recommend this book:
My Everyday Hero - Sam
Tamara Ferguson
2023 Gold Medal
156 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite
An Air Force pilot and a nurse trainee develop a deep bond as they face imminent danger and heal their wounds in Tamara Ferguson’s thrilling romance My Everyday Hero - Sam. After enduring unimaginable trauma, Heather Janson found hope through her new friendships and her career as a nurse. She realized that caregiving had given her a new, rewarding purpose that had allowed her to free herself from her anger toward her abusive uncle. She met Sam Wellman when he walked into the bar that she owned and immediately felt connected to him. Like her, Sam was battling crushing memories from his childhood and a traumatic time serving in Afghanistan. For the first time in ages, Heather felt hopeful but was reluctant to believe that she would be able to escape her uncle’s grasp. Heather and Sam faced their challenges together and both found happiness in the comfort of their relationship despite their heart-breaking pasts.
Like other books by Tamara Ferguson, the story flows effortlessly and draws its audience in right from the first page. Though Sam and Heather’s relationship was swift, it still feels authentic. There are many hair-raising scenes in the story which were well woven into the main plot. I loved that the lead characters are fleshed out with pasts that help explain the torment they are battling. Their stories are also original and they explore essential themes which include PTSD, sexual violence, anguish and grief after loss, and childhood trauma. My Everyday Hero - Sam is an immersive romance novel and a great addition to Ferguson’s work. Readers will find the characters believable and will find inspiration in their resilience.
An Air Force pilot and a nurse trainee develop a deep bond as they face imminent danger and heal their wounds in Tamara Ferguson’s thrilling romance My Everyday Hero - Sam. After enduring unimaginable trauma, Heather Janson found hope through her new friendships and her career as a nurse. She realized that caregiving had given her a new, rewarding purpose that had allowed her to free herself from her anger toward her abusive uncle. She met Sam Wellman when he walked into the bar that she owned and immediately felt connected to him. Like her, Sam was battling crushing memories from his childhood and a traumatic time serving in Afghanistan. For the first time in ages, Heather felt hopeful but was reluctant to believe that she would be able to escape her uncle’s grasp. Heather and Sam faced their challenges together and both found happiness in the comfort of their relationship despite their heart-breaking pasts.
Like other books by Tamara Ferguson, the story flows effortlessly and draws its audience in right from the first page. Though Sam and Heather’s relationship was swift, it still feels authentic. There are many hair-raising scenes in the story which were well woven into the main plot. I loved that the lead characters are fleshed out with pasts that help explain the torment they are battling. Their stories are also original and they explore essential themes which include PTSD, sexual violence, anguish and grief after loss, and childhood trauma. My Everyday Hero - Sam is an immersive romance novel and a great addition to Ferguson’s work. Readers will find the characters believable and will find inspiration in their resilience.
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