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Distracting the Deputy
Summer Creek Book 4
Shanna Hatfield
2022 Gold Medal
419 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Joy Hannabass for Readers' Favorite
Distracting the Deputy by Shanna Hatfield is a sweet small-town clean romance that I enjoyed very much. Deputy Strickland strives to keep law and order in his small town, and now his thoughts are on a certain Zadie Redmond, and what she is all about. But Zadie has her own troubles that keep her looking over her shoulder while she tries to work. They both come with a bit of baggage that is sure to surface sooner or later. Can the two get over themselves and their past for a little romance?
Distracting the Deputy takes readers back to Summer Creek, Oregon. This cozy story is so good it will have readers wanting to sneak a blanket and comfy chair for some good long reading time. I think this cast of characters keeps getting better as new characters keep coming in. I think each one plays their parts so well they make the story shine. I enjoyed the interactions between the Deputy and Zadie and their closeness as they spent so much time together. There were twists and turns that were surprising, including well-kept secrets that came to the surface. If you enjoy a good clean western story with lots of drama, this will be the book for you. This is book four in the Summer Creek series, but I didn't have any problems with getting to know any of the characters, and I didn't feel lost as I read the story. I really enjoy Shanna Hatfield's phenomenal writing style and will definitely look for more books by her in the future.
Distracting the Deputy by Shanna Hatfield is a sweet small-town clean romance that I enjoyed very much. Deputy Strickland strives to keep law and order in his small town, and now his thoughts are on a certain Zadie Redmond, and what she is all about. But Zadie has her own troubles that keep her looking over her shoulder while she tries to work. They both come with a bit of baggage that is sure to surface sooner or later. Can the two get over themselves and their past for a little romance?
Distracting the Deputy takes readers back to Summer Creek, Oregon. This cozy story is so good it will have readers wanting to sneak a blanket and comfy chair for some good long reading time. I think this cast of characters keeps getting better as new characters keep coming in. I think each one plays their parts so well they make the story shine. I enjoyed the interactions between the Deputy and Zadie and their closeness as they spent so much time together. There were twists and turns that were surprising, including well-kept secrets that came to the surface. If you enjoy a good clean western story with lots of drama, this will be the book for you. This is book four in the Summer Creek series, but I didn't have any problems with getting to know any of the characters, and I didn't feel lost as I read the story. I really enjoy Shanna Hatfield's phenomenal writing style and will definitely look for more books by her in the future.
Recommend this book:
Secrets in the Palazzo
Kathleen Reid
2022 Finalist
250 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite
The enthralling romance novel, Secrets in the Palazzo by Kathleen Reid, intertwines romance and mystery and includes superb descriptions of major Renaissance artists and their works. Rose is living her ideal life in Florence. She is engaged to her fiancé and has just opened her first gallery, which has been acclaimed as a great success. But her life takes a turn when she discovers a devastating secret that could change her future plans. Her friend Beatrice, who works as a conservator at the Vatican laboratory in Rome, is in love with Mike. He is an enigmatic and creative street artist whose rivalry with another painter results in the creation of imaginative works of art. Beatrice has also discovered exciting information linked to a lost Leonardo da Vinci painting which is surrounded by rumors and intrigue.
Secrets in the Palazzo is a brilliant romance novel with suspenseful plots set against a captivating backdrop. I loved the work’s masterful inclusion of historical details and art descriptions into the mysteries. I also loved that its main plots were unpredictable and the artists’ murals in the work highlight themes of diversity and inclusion, relevant to our modern world. I also liked that the characters’ lives are imperfect but also portray the value of forgiveness and growth. Secrets in the Palazzo by Kathleen Reid is a unique, compelling work with intriguing twists. It blends mystery and romance and creates an immersive novel with important themes. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy either of the genres or are art enthusiasts.
The enthralling romance novel, Secrets in the Palazzo by Kathleen Reid, intertwines romance and mystery and includes superb descriptions of major Renaissance artists and their works. Rose is living her ideal life in Florence. She is engaged to her fiancé and has just opened her first gallery, which has been acclaimed as a great success. But her life takes a turn when she discovers a devastating secret that could change her future plans. Her friend Beatrice, who works as a conservator at the Vatican laboratory in Rome, is in love with Mike. He is an enigmatic and creative street artist whose rivalry with another painter results in the creation of imaginative works of art. Beatrice has also discovered exciting information linked to a lost Leonardo da Vinci painting which is surrounded by rumors and intrigue.
Secrets in the Palazzo is a brilliant romance novel with suspenseful plots set against a captivating backdrop. I loved the work’s masterful inclusion of historical details and art descriptions into the mysteries. I also loved that its main plots were unpredictable and the artists’ murals in the work highlight themes of diversity and inclusion, relevant to our modern world. I also liked that the characters’ lives are imperfect but also portray the value of forgiveness and growth. Secrets in the Palazzo by Kathleen Reid is a unique, compelling work with intriguing twists. It blends mystery and romance and creates an immersive novel with important themes. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy either of the genres or are art enthusiasts.
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The Bounty Hunter's Bride
Janis Jakes
2022 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Romance - General
Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite
The Bounty Hunter's Bride by Janis Jakes is a rewarding Christian romance novella with surprising sub-plots and a delightful ending. Luke Lancaster is a skilled bounty hunter contracted to track Billie, an alleged dangerous criminal on the run. But they are being trailed too, and when both fugitive and bounty hunter get caught up in an almost fatal attack, Luke hesitates to rescue Billie. Still, he helps her and both survive. Billie is unsure why Luke did not leave her to die. Part Comanche, Luke was raised by his Christian mother. Now, he is at odds with his faith after having gone through a tragic event in his past. Though Billie is introduced to Luke’s life, she believes his work and her profession as a school teacher will keep them apart.
I was fascinated by the story from the opening scene which involves Luke and Billie’s face off. The story does not lose momentum and throughout, Billie and Luke are pursued by powerful criminals. I also loved that the characters are complex and intriguing. Luke is struggling with events in his past. Growing up, he also felt torn between two worlds. His mother was white and his father is Comanche. His estranged relationship with his father is explored in the book. The sub-plot helps flesh out Luke and his sisters’ backgrounds. Surrounded by danger and separated by social attitudes and their professions, Luke and Billie’s love is original and captivating as it includes two people from contrasting backgrounds. The Bounty Hunter's Bride by Janis Jakes is a historical novella that readers will love for its creative plot and relatable characters.
The Bounty Hunter's Bride by Janis Jakes is a rewarding Christian romance novella with surprising sub-plots and a delightful ending. Luke Lancaster is a skilled bounty hunter contracted to track Billie, an alleged dangerous criminal on the run. But they are being trailed too, and when both fugitive and bounty hunter get caught up in an almost fatal attack, Luke hesitates to rescue Billie. Still, he helps her and both survive. Billie is unsure why Luke did not leave her to die. Part Comanche, Luke was raised by his Christian mother. Now, he is at odds with his faith after having gone through a tragic event in his past. Though Billie is introduced to Luke’s life, she believes his work and her profession as a school teacher will keep them apart.
I was fascinated by the story from the opening scene which involves Luke and Billie’s face off. The story does not lose momentum and throughout, Billie and Luke are pursued by powerful criminals. I also loved that the characters are complex and intriguing. Luke is struggling with events in his past. Growing up, he also felt torn between two worlds. His mother was white and his father is Comanche. His estranged relationship with his father is explored in the book. The sub-plot helps flesh out Luke and his sisters’ backgrounds. Surrounded by danger and separated by social attitudes and their professions, Luke and Billie’s love is original and captivating as it includes two people from contrasting backgrounds. The Bounty Hunter's Bride by Janis Jakes is a historical novella that readers will love for its creative plot and relatable characters.
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Music of the Soul
Gail Miller Mahaffey
2022 Honorable Mention
202 Pages
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Christian - Romance - General
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Music is what binds the soul. For concert pianist Meredith Mason, music is also what keeps her sane. After losing her parents in a tragic accident while they were on their way to hear her perform, Meredith has poured her life and her soul into her music, making her fame on the world concert stage as a pianist. But is that enough? Is her music merely a smokescreen to block the endless pain, her guilt over her parents’ deaths? She has reached her zenith in the music world. What next? What is her life’s purpose now? When a fellow musician enters the picture and captures her heart, things begin to change, as does the music that binds.
Gail Miller Mahaffey’s novel, Music of the Soul, is a touching musical tribute to all that is beautiful in the world. The author has masterfully woven a tale of passion, love, and the ultimate purpose of life to the finely tuned (no pun intended) workings of music and the soul. Beginning each chapter with a profound quote about music, written by some of the greatest minds throughout history (from musicians to artists to writers to political thinkers and more), the plot is music-driven. The author, a musician herself, knows her music. The protagonist, Meredith, is driven by a powerful force of guilt as she navigates her way through life in the music world and on the concert stage. But there is more to life and the music she so poignantly performs needs a release of this guilt, a release she only discovers through love and spiritual renewal. And, with each new encounter, Meredith unravels some of the mysteries of her own life and where her journey should ultimately lead her. The story is about music, success, and overcoming guilt, but it is also about coming to terms with your inner self and finding your ultimate purpose in life. Powerful story. Loved it!
Music is what binds the soul. For concert pianist Meredith Mason, music is also what keeps her sane. After losing her parents in a tragic accident while they were on their way to hear her perform, Meredith has poured her life and her soul into her music, making her fame on the world concert stage as a pianist. But is that enough? Is her music merely a smokescreen to block the endless pain, her guilt over her parents’ deaths? She has reached her zenith in the music world. What next? What is her life’s purpose now? When a fellow musician enters the picture and captures her heart, things begin to change, as does the music that binds.
Gail Miller Mahaffey’s novel, Music of the Soul, is a touching musical tribute to all that is beautiful in the world. The author has masterfully woven a tale of passion, love, and the ultimate purpose of life to the finely tuned (no pun intended) workings of music and the soul. Beginning each chapter with a profound quote about music, written by some of the greatest minds throughout history (from musicians to artists to writers to political thinkers and more), the plot is music-driven. The author, a musician herself, knows her music. The protagonist, Meredith, is driven by a powerful force of guilt as she navigates her way through life in the music world and on the concert stage. But there is more to life and the music she so poignantly performs needs a release of this guilt, a release she only discovers through love and spiritual renewal. And, with each new encounter, Meredith unravels some of the mysteries of her own life and where her journey should ultimately lead her. The story is about music, success, and overcoming guilt, but it is also about coming to terms with your inner self and finding your ultimate purpose in life. Powerful story. Loved it!
Recommend this book:
Daughter of the Boricua
Songs of the Boricua
Olivia Castillo
2022 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Daughter of the Boricua: Songs of the Boricua is the second in the series by Olivia Castillo. When Moctezuma was dying, he cursed Hernan Cortes and his next generation of daughters. Moctezuma had no idea his daughter and her future generations would be caught up in the curse as well. The story follows three generations of women who face the consequences of their own decisions, and sometimes fate was cruel. Liani, Isabella, and Josephine were living different lives, but their goal was similar. A direct descendant of an Aztec princess, Isabella was cursed and had to learn to live with it. Liani was in love with a Spanish officer, but her loyalty to her people was stopping her from chasing after what her heart wanted. Josephine was Isabella’s daughter but her issues were different from her mother's. Josephine was stuck between choosing her career or her love because she could not have both.
I was expecting to read Daughter of the Boricua in a single sitting and call it a day. I was invested from the very first chapter, and as the story progressed, I knew I had to slow down to savor every aspect. It was magical and entertaining beyond my imagination. I loved the mystique and the supernatural elements surrounding our protagonists. The different points of view and periods could be confusing, but they aren’t. Olivia Castillo did justice to each of the women and this allows readers to enjoy their stories. The dilemma each of them faced was relatable, believable, and humbling. The pace was perfect, the chapters flowed flawlessly, and the story was fantastic. There was suspense, romance, a little bit of heartbreak, and a lot of growth. Loved this!
Daughter of the Boricua: Songs of the Boricua is the second in the series by Olivia Castillo. When Moctezuma was dying, he cursed Hernan Cortes and his next generation of daughters. Moctezuma had no idea his daughter and her future generations would be caught up in the curse as well. The story follows three generations of women who face the consequences of their own decisions, and sometimes fate was cruel. Liani, Isabella, and Josephine were living different lives, but their goal was similar. A direct descendant of an Aztec princess, Isabella was cursed and had to learn to live with it. Liani was in love with a Spanish officer, but her loyalty to her people was stopping her from chasing after what her heart wanted. Josephine was Isabella’s daughter but her issues were different from her mother's. Josephine was stuck between choosing her career or her love because she could not have both.
I was expecting to read Daughter of the Boricua in a single sitting and call it a day. I was invested from the very first chapter, and as the story progressed, I knew I had to slow down to savor every aspect. It was magical and entertaining beyond my imagination. I loved the mystique and the supernatural elements surrounding our protagonists. The different points of view and periods could be confusing, but they aren’t. Olivia Castillo did justice to each of the women and this allows readers to enjoy their stories. The dilemma each of them faced was relatable, believable, and humbling. The pace was perfect, the chapters flowed flawlessly, and the story was fantastic. There was suspense, romance, a little bit of heartbreak, and a lot of growth. Loved this!
Recommend this book:
Children Of The Third
A Post-Apocalyptic Thriller (Goliath Code Book 3)
Suzanne Leonhard
2022 Bronze Medal
662 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Children of the Third by Suzanne Leonhard is a post-apocalyptic Christian thriller and the third book in the Goliath Code series, preceded by the award-winning and critically acclaimed book one, The Goliath Code, and book two, Prophet. The book revolves around the plight of the world in the seven-year Tribulation, an end-times war where the likes of individuals such as protagonist Sera Donner are fighting for their lives in the name of something greater, under the direction of words that come from the mouth of a powerful prophet but are enveloped in a higher decree. Sera is now a recipient of the genetic transformation of The Goliath Code, which strengthens her body and sensory channels. A series of battle losses that cost the lives of those close to her are devastating, but there are also reunions and blessed moments of grace that strengthen Sera and her compatriots' faith that they might prevail in the inevitable war to come. “The fallen angels are those who chose Lucifer’s side against Yahweh... In the end, they’ll all be punished by being thrown into the Lake of Fire with Lucifer.”
Children of the Third is a superbly written follow-up in The Goliath Code series and Suzanne Leonhard once again proves herself as a force in the genre of dystopian fiction. Sera is flawed and relatable. She is fragile and doubtful in a way that anyone thrust into a horrific universal war at such a young age would be. Crushing deaths that almost rain down around her, her own twin brother turning into an agent of the worst possible evil, and a father she might never see again...it's all pretty intense. But she's also strong and determined, emboldened by a growing sense of purpose and love of the Lord and we are continually reminded of what we are capable of in the darkest times. As the book of Micah 7:8 says in scripture: “Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.” Very highly recommended.
Children of the Third by Suzanne Leonhard is a post-apocalyptic Christian thriller and the third book in the Goliath Code series, preceded by the award-winning and critically acclaimed book one, The Goliath Code, and book two, Prophet. The book revolves around the plight of the world in the seven-year Tribulation, an end-times war where the likes of individuals such as protagonist Sera Donner are fighting for their lives in the name of something greater, under the direction of words that come from the mouth of a powerful prophet but are enveloped in a higher decree. Sera is now a recipient of the genetic transformation of The Goliath Code, which strengthens her body and sensory channels. A series of battle losses that cost the lives of those close to her are devastating, but there are also reunions and blessed moments of grace that strengthen Sera and her compatriots' faith that they might prevail in the inevitable war to come. “The fallen angels are those who chose Lucifer’s side against Yahweh... In the end, they’ll all be punished by being thrown into the Lake of Fire with Lucifer.”
Children of the Third is a superbly written follow-up in The Goliath Code series and Suzanne Leonhard once again proves herself as a force in the genre of dystopian fiction. Sera is flawed and relatable. She is fragile and doubtful in a way that anyone thrust into a horrific universal war at such a young age would be. Crushing deaths that almost rain down around her, her own twin brother turning into an agent of the worst possible evil, and a father she might never see again...it's all pretty intense. But she's also strong and determined, emboldened by a growing sense of purpose and love of the Lord and we are continually reminded of what we are capable of in the darkest times. As the book of Micah 7:8 says in scripture: “Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.” Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Snare
The Lighthouse Series
Charles Besondy
2022 Finalist
252 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
The third installment in The Lighthouse Series by Charles Besondy, The Snare is a spiritual and psychological thriller that continues to tell the story of Charles Austin, yet it can be read as a stand-alone. As the series progresses, the face of evil continues to take shape and the Figure in Gray will continue to torment the protagonist. Charley is about to graduate high school, but as he crosses a new threshold in his life, a tragic episode from his past continues to haunt him. His world view and faith are being tested, all because the Figure in Gray, who now goes by the name of Phobley, uses Charley as a pet project as part of his sinister and seductive plan. Failure is not an option for Phobley this time, especially when he has a timetable to follow.
The Snare is an ambitious, ensnaring Christian thriller that brews with intensity as you keep reading. You not only keep track of what Charley will do next; you similarly keep track of what the villain, Phobley, is also going to do. The theme of the battle between good and evil is so amplified that it is an indication of the plot’s central idea. It gives the storyline the kind of bite necessary to sustain your curiosity. Every scene feels necessary in the plot’s thematic importance, and there is so much to like about Charley’s existential angst as he goes through his test of faith. The Snare is an enjoyable read, and you will likely pick up the first two stories after reading this one. The story is captivating in that it revels in its figurative artistry, yet it has a solid hold on realism.
The third installment in The Lighthouse Series by Charles Besondy, The Snare is a spiritual and psychological thriller that continues to tell the story of Charles Austin, yet it can be read as a stand-alone. As the series progresses, the face of evil continues to take shape and the Figure in Gray will continue to torment the protagonist. Charley is about to graduate high school, but as he crosses a new threshold in his life, a tragic episode from his past continues to haunt him. His world view and faith are being tested, all because the Figure in Gray, who now goes by the name of Phobley, uses Charley as a pet project as part of his sinister and seductive plan. Failure is not an option for Phobley this time, especially when he has a timetable to follow.
The Snare is an ambitious, ensnaring Christian thriller that brews with intensity as you keep reading. You not only keep track of what Charley will do next; you similarly keep track of what the villain, Phobley, is also going to do. The theme of the battle between good and evil is so amplified that it is an indication of the plot’s central idea. It gives the storyline the kind of bite necessary to sustain your curiosity. Every scene feels necessary in the plot’s thematic importance, and there is so much to like about Charley’s existential angst as he goes through his test of faith. The Snare is an enjoyable read, and you will likely pick up the first two stories after reading this one. The story is captivating in that it revels in its figurative artistry, yet it has a solid hold on realism.
Recommend this book:
Out Front the Following Sea
Leah Angstman
2022 Bronze Medal
334 Pages
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Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Out Front the Following Sea by Leah Angstman is an epic tale that we don’t expect but definitely need. This is the story of Ruth Miner, who lives during the high period of voyages and discovery. It is also a time when superstition and blind belief are pervasive and a time when it is challenging to be a woman. Accused as a witch after the murder of her parents, Ruth’s life is about to take a turn as her irrational town demands her execution. Ruth flees and becomes a stowaway aboard a ship. She encounters Owen, a sailor who is aware of her innocence and has long been drawn to her from their years of friendship. But Owen will be facing his own challenge, too, as his French lineage doesn’t stand well with an English commander. They are in a time when King William is waging war between French and English settlers in 1689 New England. This places Ruth in a predicament between saving Owen or herself.
Out Front the Following Sea magnificently captures the color of its time and settings. Leah Angstman is an emerging voice in historical fiction that you should take note of. She is an old soul who writes with the same flair that Hawthorne displayed in The Scarlet Letter and Jack London in The Sea Wolf. She paints a past America without concealing its flaws, creating a lucid narrative that really takes you back in time. I can’t even begin to describe her facility in detailing the nautical exploits of which she shows a good grasp. On top of this, she manages to explore the romantic relationship between Ruth and Owen. This is a fascinating fusion of history, intrigue, adventure, action, and romance—an enlightening tale about the past that will immediately pull you in from the very first page.
Out Front the Following Sea by Leah Angstman is an epic tale that we don’t expect but definitely need. This is the story of Ruth Miner, who lives during the high period of voyages and discovery. It is also a time when superstition and blind belief are pervasive and a time when it is challenging to be a woman. Accused as a witch after the murder of her parents, Ruth’s life is about to take a turn as her irrational town demands her execution. Ruth flees and becomes a stowaway aboard a ship. She encounters Owen, a sailor who is aware of her innocence and has long been drawn to her from their years of friendship. But Owen will be facing his own challenge, too, as his French lineage doesn’t stand well with an English commander. They are in a time when King William is waging war between French and English settlers in 1689 New England. This places Ruth in a predicament between saving Owen or herself.
Out Front the Following Sea magnificently captures the color of its time and settings. Leah Angstman is an emerging voice in historical fiction that you should take note of. She is an old soul who writes with the same flair that Hawthorne displayed in The Scarlet Letter and Jack London in The Sea Wolf. She paints a past America without concealing its flaws, creating a lucid narrative that really takes you back in time. I can’t even begin to describe her facility in detailing the nautical exploits of which she shows a good grasp. On top of this, she manages to explore the romantic relationship between Ruth and Owen. This is a fascinating fusion of history, intrigue, adventure, action, and romance—an enlightening tale about the past that will immediately pull you in from the very first page.
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Beyond The Human Realm
An animal story for adults
Gene Helfman
2022 Gold Medal
440 Pages
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Fiction - Animals
Reviewed by Shrabastee Chakraborty for Readers' Favorite
After his brief stint at Hamilton College ending in disgrace, Dr. Rudy Laguna accepts a teaching position at Northwest Washington State University. Despite his interest in orca behavior, he lacks both time and funds to start independent research. When an opportunity to spearhead an orca relocation project presents itself, he gladly accepts it. However, relocating a captive orca to the wild poses unforeseen challenges that Rudy must confront. How will Makai, the famous orca, fare outside a controlled environment? Will the complex social structure of the resident orca groups permit his inclusion? Beyond the Human Realm by Gene Helfman weaves these questions into a tale of extraordinary scope. This novel boasts a unique storyline, told from the perspectives of both humans and orcas.
Gene Helfman’s book serves as an eye-opener for human cruelty toward animals. Each page showcases such inhumane instances, questioning our integrity. Taking orcas as examples, Helfman proceeds to highlight our indifference to the natural world. Our reluctance to understand the intricacies of the animal world, one full of intriguing norms and rules, makes us oblivious to its beauty. The novel also speaks of an ancient time when humankind used to be at one with nature. Our greed and corruption have blinded us so much that we have severed this sacred connection and forgotten to respect our fellow non-human beings. Yet, some people still keep fighting the good fight. Helfman’s novel introduces some of them to us. With thrilling twists and a satisfactory climax, Beyond the Human Realm is undoubtedly one of my best reads so far. As an animal behavior enthusiast myself, I loved seeing the world from an orca’s point of view.
After his brief stint at Hamilton College ending in disgrace, Dr. Rudy Laguna accepts a teaching position at Northwest Washington State University. Despite his interest in orca behavior, he lacks both time and funds to start independent research. When an opportunity to spearhead an orca relocation project presents itself, he gladly accepts it. However, relocating a captive orca to the wild poses unforeseen challenges that Rudy must confront. How will Makai, the famous orca, fare outside a controlled environment? Will the complex social structure of the resident orca groups permit his inclusion? Beyond the Human Realm by Gene Helfman weaves these questions into a tale of extraordinary scope. This novel boasts a unique storyline, told from the perspectives of both humans and orcas.
Gene Helfman’s book serves as an eye-opener for human cruelty toward animals. Each page showcases such inhumane instances, questioning our integrity. Taking orcas as examples, Helfman proceeds to highlight our indifference to the natural world. Our reluctance to understand the intricacies of the animal world, one full of intriguing norms and rules, makes us oblivious to its beauty. The novel also speaks of an ancient time when humankind used to be at one with nature. Our greed and corruption have blinded us so much that we have severed this sacred connection and forgotten to respect our fellow non-human beings. Yet, some people still keep fighting the good fight. Helfman’s novel introduces some of them to us. With thrilling twists and a satisfactory climax, Beyond the Human Realm is undoubtedly one of my best reads so far. As an animal behavior enthusiast myself, I loved seeing the world from an orca’s point of view.
Recommend this book:
Terriers in the Jungle
A Novel
Georja Umano
2022 Silver Medal
206 Pages
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Fiction - Animals
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Terriers in the Jungle by Georja Umano is an animal adventure story narrated through the eyes of two terriers. Roxie and Romeo are two spirited terriers living fulfilling lives after being adopted by Kate, a passionate animal activist. A couple of years back, Kate's husband Gerard, a wildlife photographer, lost his life in an unfortunate plane crash in Congo. Since then, Roxie and Romeo have been her constant support and family. When the trio leaves their cozy home in California to make a trip to the jungles of Kenya, Roxie and Romeo have no idea what they are in for. But after being introduced to playful elephants, aggressive baboons, and nefarious poachers, they discover that the world is bigger than they previously thought. Along the way, Romeo helps local authorities catch two notorious poachers.
Filled with wit, charm, and humor, Terriers in the Jungle is a must-read for any animal lover. Georja Umano's adventure tale showcases the ways pets or animals in general help people cope with the rigors of life while providing unconditional love and company. The narrative focuses on two terriers from the busy streets of L.A. who unexpectedly find themselves amongst exotic wild animals in the jungles of Africa. Through Romeo and Roxie, the reader sees the ways animals interpret human behavior and their environment. Umano perfectly captures the essence of how animals deal with trauma and the loss of their loved ones. Terriers in the Jungle is a fun-filled adventure novel that can be surprisingly poignant at times. I enjoyed it immensely and highly recommend it.
Terriers in the Jungle by Georja Umano is an animal adventure story narrated through the eyes of two terriers. Roxie and Romeo are two spirited terriers living fulfilling lives after being adopted by Kate, a passionate animal activist. A couple of years back, Kate's husband Gerard, a wildlife photographer, lost his life in an unfortunate plane crash in Congo. Since then, Roxie and Romeo have been her constant support and family. When the trio leaves their cozy home in California to make a trip to the jungles of Kenya, Roxie and Romeo have no idea what they are in for. But after being introduced to playful elephants, aggressive baboons, and nefarious poachers, they discover that the world is bigger than they previously thought. Along the way, Romeo helps local authorities catch two notorious poachers.
Filled with wit, charm, and humor, Terriers in the Jungle is a must-read for any animal lover. Georja Umano's adventure tale showcases the ways pets or animals in general help people cope with the rigors of life while providing unconditional love and company. The narrative focuses on two terriers from the busy streets of L.A. who unexpectedly find themselves amongst exotic wild animals in the jungles of Africa. Through Romeo and Roxie, the reader sees the ways animals interpret human behavior and their environment. Umano perfectly captures the essence of how animals deal with trauma and the loss of their loved ones. Terriers in the Jungle is a fun-filled adventure novel that can be surprisingly poignant at times. I enjoyed it immensely and highly recommend it.
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