Reviewed by Bernadette Longu for Readers' Favorite

In Outside the Lines, Mary Perrine covers a subject that we all hope will not happen to us. She writes a most wonderful, moving story that will grip the reader's attention from the prologue to the very last page. Mary uses her main characters Bella and Tilly well. Each one plays an important part in the journey that both have to take as they near the end. Each one is fighting their own demons and facing an uncertain future of what will happen as they near the end of their path. The unexpected twist will leave the reader realizing that every day one has in this world is a bonus day, especially when fighting a terminal illness. This book will linger in your memory and will appear in your thoughts when life gets tough and you have challenges to face that you would rather bury and pretend are not real.

Readers will find that once they start reading, there is no stopping as the characters lead them through their lives with laughter, sorrow, tears, wisdom, and dignity. It will give readers strength and inspiration to face whatever situation awaits them in the future or even in the present. I really enjoyed reading Outside the Lines as it helped me accept the situation I find myself in with my sister who is so far away, and who I am not sure how much longer will be with us. Each day is a bonus day and I try to make the most of it. Thank you, Mary Perrine, for taking a sensitive subject that makes everyone nervous, unsure of what to say and do, and making it more understandable and accepting of the decisions of the person taking the journey. This is a book well worth more than one read. An inspirational and heart-warming story.

Reviewed by Kimberlee J Benart for Readers' Favorite

Mr. Jimmy From Around the Way is a novel by Jeffrey Blount. Ostracized by his family after a visit to a prostitute is sensationalized in the media, a well-known Black billionaire flees Washington, D.C. amid the heartbreaking ending of his marriage to seek seclusion and anonymity in rural Mississippi. Expecting an idyllic setting like his childhood, he arrives to find instead that the bungalow he bought online is in a dilapidated neighborhood. Families live in abject poverty, their houses are unfit for habitation, the schools are failing the children, and basic government services are inadequate or nonexistent. Can he help his neighbors find a path to hopefulness and prosperity even if it means becoming the target of a racist town leader who wants him gone?

In Mr. Jimmy From Around the Way, Jeffrey Blount gives us an utterly inspirational story of transformation at both the personal and community levels through the power of love, hope, and charity. I enjoyed reading this book, especially the way the author addressed practical solutions to poverty and restoring hopefulness and dignity. I appreciated the significant role that Mr. Jimmy’s parents were given in inculcating positive values in him as a boy. These underpinned his life and actions as a man. The intrinsic goodness of many characters is heartwarming while the evil, injustice, and unkindness of others is a sad note on the struggle that many Americans still face due to racism. The narrative is engaging and well-paced and weaves a complex tapestry of characters, plot, and theme. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

In Freedom's Shadow is a work of fiction in the historical drama, sociocultural issues, and slice-of-life subgenres. It is suitable for the general adult reading audience. Penned by author Robert Hilliard, the plot follows the gripping tale of John Scobell, a courageous African American who risks everything to escape slavery during the Civil War, only to find himself thrust back into the heart of Confederate territory as an undercover Union spy. As he navigates the perilous landscape of espionage, Scobell faces the constant threat of capture by ruthless Confederate spy hunters, all while grappling with the moral complexities of his dual identity.

Author Robert Hilliard has crafted an intricate and compelling tale that weaves together historical accuracy and narrative tension, bringing to life the heroic true story of a man caught between two worlds, striving to break free from the shadows of oppression and secure his rightful emancipation. I was really impressed with Hilliard’s flair for character and attitude, conveying complex emotions in easy-to-access moments of dialogue and action where readers can explore between the lines and get to know Scobell and those he clashes with on his journey. There’s a natural warmth to the narrative flow that offers comfort even in the most difficult moments, with a kind of quiet confidence that lets us know we’re in safe authorial hands no matter where the tale takes us. The novel delves deep into themes of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring quest for freedom, offering readers a poignant exploration of one individual's journey amidst the tumult of war and injustice. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend In Freedom's Shadow to fans of poignant historical fiction packed with realistic and emotive detail.

Reviewed by Emily Maynard for Readers' Favorite

Anna wakes up after a night out celebrating the end of the fall semester at college with a feeling of dread. A call from her mother soon gives her the reason - her twin sister Sam is missing. Anna races home to Marble Hill. When her sister’s belongings give her no clues, she enlists the help of her Uncle Brokeback, the town’s drug kingpin and ex-convict, to get the local sheriff’s department to register Sam as a missing person. While they begin their inquiries, Anna starts her own investigation, going through the people and places in town that may have answers. As family relationships begin to show the strain, Anna takes comfort in still feeling a connection with Sam. When Sam’s clothes are found on a local hiking trail, it is clear that something has happened. While official investigators search the family’s trailer, Anna goes to talk to Old Man Stallings, who found the clothes. He can’t tell her much more than she already knows, but gives her some advice: “We’ve all got a capacity for meanness, and don’t trust no one.” Though I Walk by Clay Anderson follows Anna in her quest to find the truth. Will she remember the advice she was given? Or has she already chosen to trust the wrong person?

Though I Walk is a complex, thrilling novel that grips the reader’s attention right away. It contains vivid descriptions of Georgia and the small town of Marble Hill, creating the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama. Clay Anderson beautifully captures the emotional development of each character in response to a loved one going missing and the ensuing difficulties they face. The realistic, evocative way these feelings and reactions are portrayed adds authenticity to the writing and makes it relatable to the reader on an instinctual level. The story moves swiftly, with each chapter focusing on one main event or occurrence before leading enticingly into the next. The plot is centered around Anna and Sam, but also branches out into their community, considering each person, the secrets they keep, and the lies they tell. This creates a layer of intrigue and helps to reinforce the ever-present idea that no one is above suspicion. Some potentially difficult themes are very prominent, including drug production, addiction, and misuse. As it’s set in a town dubbed ‘Meth Hill’ very early on, this is not altogether surprising. Clay Anderson doesn’t shy away from embracing these topics and uses them to add depth to each character’s backstory and the history of the small town itself. This is a captivating, powerful story that I found very difficult to put down. It is filled with suspense and mystery and kept me interested and engaged throughout. I highly recommend this book; it’s beautifully written, truly compelling, and a fantastic example of a thriller.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Whispering Winds of Appalachia is a work of fiction in the literary style and in the interpersonal drama subgenre. It is best suited to adult readers owing to some explicit language usage and reference to drug use and sex. Penned by author John Ellington, readers are invited into a poignant coming-of-age story set against the beautiful backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. The plot follows the life of Chris Atwell and his best friends, Walker Davis and Brook Palmer, during a transformative year of their friendship and love. The narrative is deeply emotional, with a sense of nostalgia for the past, capturing the essence of fleeting moments and the inevitable changes life brings. The arrival of Paul Wright, a pre-medical student from Charleston, marks a turning point in their lives, and the story takes a dramatic twist as an irrevocable mistake challenges Chris's conscience and tests their friendships.

Author John Ellington has crafted an emotionally resonant work that builds with all the slow-burning charm of a literary titan into a gorgeous exploration of interpersonal relationships and how we see ourselves in the light of the actions of ourselves and others. The author paints a highly immersive picture of the enchanting Appalachian landscape, creating a vivid and almost spiritual setting in which the characters' lives unfold that feels like its own character in the narrative, gently overseeing them all. The development and attention to detail around Chris were especially well-achieved, with some excellent dialogue that is never overly telling but allows readers to sense what’s brewing between the lines. Readers who appreciate emotionally charged narratives and evocative settings will find this book a compelling and touching read where the characters come to feel like close personal friends by the time it is over. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Whispering Winds of Appalachia for fans of accomplished literary fiction everywhere.

Reviewed by Shrabastee Chakraborty for Readers' Favorite

Baking had always been Anna’s passion, something she learned from her grandmother Beatrice at a young age. After her grandmother’s death, Anna decided to run Bea’s Bakery, her family legacy and a staple for the townspeople of Mystic Water. Yet, she could not let go of her dream of someday opening her beachside bakery. Following a breakup and in a drunken stupor, Anna created a dough boy using Beatrice’s secret ingredient. The next day, there was a handsome stranger at her bakery, serving customers with her and charming the entire town. Things became complicated when Anna’s best friend fell for him. Who was this mysterious guy? Can Anna cope with so many heartbreaks and what will happen to her dreams? Find out in The Baker’s Man, a novel by Jennifer Moorman.

As a magical realism aficionado, I can say that this novel catered to my tastes perfectly. If you are a fan of Heather Webber, Sarah Addison Allen, or Laura Esquivel, this book is guaranteed to be a great read. Jennifer Moorman invoked the southern magical charm found in Webber’s books, coated it with the culinary delights reminiscent of Garden Spells, and finally added a layer of romantic angst. Yet, her recipe is unique, creating a delicious treat brimful with love, magic, and baked goods. The literary references sprinkled throughout the narrative were like hidden gems. I rooted for Anna, who had a trusting, loving heart. I wished for her long-cherished dreams to come true, triumphing over all her indecision and insecurities. The solidarity of the friends and neighbors, who came together to help Anna at the moment of her most desperate need, moved me to tears. Moorman’s novel shows the importance of following your heart and creating your blazing trail, and believing that the puzzle pieces will eventually fall into place. I recommend The Baker’s Man to any reader who appreciates magical realism or a small-town romance.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

The Key to Circus-Mom Highway is a comedy-drama novel by Allyson Rice. Lives have turned out very differently for sisters Jennifer McMahon and Jesse Chasen. While Jennifer is a suburban wife and mom of two kids, Jesse struggles to make ends meet as a bartender and freelance tattoo artist. When the two sisters receive news of the death of their birth mother and discover that she has left them a sizeable inheritance, Jesse convinces Jennifer to take a trip with her to Florida. However, they soon learn that to receive their inheritance, the sisters have to embark on a specified road trip and learn about their mother's life. Along the way, they are accompanied by their brother, Jack, who they never even knew existed. As Jesse, Jennifer, and Jack learn more about their mother's tragic past, they form a bond that draws out each other's buried sorrows.

Filled with heart, humor, and sibling drama, The Key to Circus-Mom Highway is a humorous tale about three siblings taking a chaotic road trip to receive an unexpected inheritance, only to find themselves on the adventure of their lifetimes. Allyson Rice weaves a captivating character-driven drama following the misadventures of three adult siblings in search of their mother's past. Jesse, Jennifer, and Jack have grounded characters and act like people you may have met in real life. Their sibling dynamic feels genuine, and their constant back-and-forth banter was among the highlights of the book for me. There were multiple scenes where I found myself chuckling out loud. Recommended to readers who savor humor-filled character-driven dramas.

Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite

JB had known from the moment his eyes first met Ellie's that they were meant to be together. His grandma had called what he experienced 'the knowing.' He was drawn to her beyond anything he had experienced before. She was a rich Yankee, he a poor peanut farmer with only the promise of an unfulfilled dream as a football star. He was talented, but was certain he was trapped, forever destined to remain a farmer. Ellie wouldn't listen as he told her to find someone better; she wanted only him, and would even defy her parents for his love. Fate, however, had other plans for the lovers.

The Knowing - JB Stratton's Story - is volume one in Brit Lunden's A Bulwark Anthology. It is a beautifully written love story encompassing the present, past, and even past lives. It is a romance with a hint of the supernatural. It is well written with a level of area building and character development often unseen in shorter books. It was easy to read this in one sitting; the story is sweet, intriguing, and sometimes moving. It has certainly piqued my interest in other books by this author, especially the Bulwark, from which this story stems. Intrigue, obstacles, fate, and the supernatural combine to present a gripping tale bound to satisfy anyone who enjoys a character-oriented, well-constructed read. There are little touches throughout which caught my interest, and have no doubt referenced events in the main book. I thought the conclusion of the book made the perfect ending to a tightly-knit tale. I look forward to reading more work from this author.

Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

Timothy Gene Sojka's novel, 39, is a literary fiction story about Stephen Detals, a former professional baseball player who faces a range of existential struggles, including alcoholism, abandonment, and suicidal thoughts. As Stephen's 39th birthday approaches, he feels the weight of an ominous fate that has plagued his family for generations: his father and grandfather both committed suicide on the same day. The narrative covers eight days leading up to Stephen's birthday, during which he confronts his addiction and navigates a return to his former hometown in Southeast Texas. On this journey, he encounters Rose Petal Detals, the enigmatic matriarch of his family who is suspected, with some decent reasoning, to be an alleged murderess. Stephen's return to his hometown after twenty years away also prompts him to uncover the dark secrets that have long haunted his family.

Timothy Gene Sojka's 39 offers an authentic depiction of what I have personally seen someone I care about go through, at least as far as addiction goes, as Stephen struggles to find meaning and purpose amidst a tragic legacy, exploring the intricate interplay between familial trauma and addiction. Sojka's writing style is evocative and engaging, providing a compelling reflection on the human condition, with themes of mortality, destiny, and the complexity of personal relationships. Despite a slow start, the plot picks up the pace as Stephen's journey becomes more pressing and he begins to confront his addiction head-on. The characters are well-developed and realistic, adding to the gripping and sometimes chilling reading experience, and an occasional writing style that resembles a stream of consciousness. Overall, 39 is a novel that delves deep into the human psyche and the complexities of personal relationships, providing an intimate and emotional exploration of addiction, familial trauma, and the search for meaning. Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite

The Palms by Clay Anderson is about a Vietnam veteran who spent thirty-six years of his life in prison for a senseless murder. Ronnie Wells had learned to kill effectively in Vietnam but in prison, he learned to think things through before acting. Ronnie made friends with his neighbor Clara and her daughter Mary. Clara did not trust Ronnie and resisted the friendship. Clara was used to being abused and was not familiar with kindness. Ronnie helped Clara in her frantic attempt to get away from her boyfriend and pimp Joe and stood by her while she battled addiction. Ronnie's and Clara’s worlds were turned upside down when Mary was kidnapped. If Ronnie wants to protect Mary from traffickers and sexual predators, he must decide whether or not to use violence, which he has pledged never to do.

The Palms by Clay Anderson is a heartbreaking story of redemption in the middle of a world heading toward chaos. I was hooked on the first sentence and could not turn the pages fast enough. It was a compelling read, and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. It was fast-paced and full of action. The characters were well-developed. Their backgrounds added depth to the plot, and the characters grew throughout the story. I was rooting for Ronnie to win for a change, despite the odds stacked against him. At times, it was hard to read about Clara and Mary’s struggles. The story is well-written and entertaining to read. It exceeded my expectations by far, and the ending was a big surprise.