Oct 25, 2024 | Editors' Blog, Historical, International Review of Books
We recommend this book to readers who enjoy fable-like narratives with a blend of myth and wisdom, as it offers a unique perspective on survival through being underestimated, vivid depictions of Timbuktu and desert life, and thought-provoking proverbs, despite some disjointed historical elements.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
From the beginning: The mysteries of the desert were hidden within its ever-shifting sands, much like the currents and eddies of an ocean. And from the ending: What an old man sees while lying down, a young man can never see even when climbing a tree.
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General Summary for Context:
The author introduces an intriguing protagonist—an aging scholar from the renowned University of Timbuktu—whose journey home sets the stage for an epic tale. As the story unfolds, a diverse cast of characters and subplots enrich the narrative, including encounters with zombies and legendary warriors, firmly rooting the novel in the fantasy genre. However, it is equally grounded in history, with the author skillfully weaving in historical events, making it a unique blend of fantasy and historical fiction. While this genre mix is innovative and refreshing, it may present a challenge when it comes to marketing due to its unconventional nature.
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Concise Review:
Cazembi, a wise and revered scholar, embarks on a perilous journey back to the University of Timbuktu. But the year is 1591, and Africa is swept by a tide of change. Fearing the dangers of crossing the Sahara, Cazembi joins forces with two merchant brothers and the legendary warrior Ayaan. Their journey soon turns violent as they face not only a rival faction but also the horrors of the undead.The story masterfully follows Cazembi and his companions through a series of gripping trials, offering plenty of intense battle scenes. Yet beneath the excitement of swordplay lies a deeper layer of quiet wisdom, expressed through proverbs passed down from the elders.
I particularly enjoyed the rich historical detail, which vividly captures life in the desert, with all its myths and legends. While the book incorporates elements of fantasy, it is firmly grounded in historical fact, making it both entertaining and educational. The inclusion of African proverbs, such as “A butterfly cannot think it is a bird just because it can fly,” added a layer of cultural depth that I found captivating.
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General Thoughts on the Novel:
While I typically don’t enjoy books where all the main characters meet a tragic end, the premise of Kho—the character who survives not by being the wisest or the bravest, but by being the most underestimated—imbues the story with the feeling of a fable or a myth. This unique angle adds a timeless quality to the narrative, reminiscent of ancient legends.However, I found that the historical elements sometimes felt disjointed. Certain parts, particularly in the last chapter, read more like a copy-and-paste from Wikipedia rather than being seamlessly integrated into the plot. This detracted from the flow of the story, making the historical context feel a bit forced at times.That said, I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Timbuktu and the lives of the desert people, which the author brought to life in vivid detail. What truly enriched the experience were the numerous proverbs and wise sayings scattered throughout the text. I found myself jotting many of them down, as they offered thought-provoking insights worth reflecting on.
Overall, despite some issues with the historical integration, the book’s blend of wisdom and myth makes for an engaging and memorable read.
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Sojourner by Ayaan Pettus is available on Amazon.
Oct 16, 2024 | Editors' Blog, International Review of Books
How we rate this book: American Renaissance is must-read for fans of intellectual intrigue and fast-paced action.
Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
“Do you really, soldier? Cause I’m referring to this notion that the insignificant details of your existence somehow have any power to save the planet, change the world, get the girl, or make this Earth a more peaceful and better place.
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General Summary for Context:
The novel centres around the rise and ambition of a revolutionary young American artist who, through his groundbreaking and controversial theory on art history at the turn of the millennium, ignites a global storm. His radical ideas challenge the very foundations of traditional art and quickly attract the attention of a violent religious sect. This group, interpreting his artistic vision as a divine revelation, becomes increasingly fanatical, evolving into a movement that threatens to destabilize world peace.
Set against the backdrop of Paris in the 1990s, the novel is not only an intense exploration of one man’s artistic ambitions but also a scathing critique of the postmodern art scene. Through the lens of this ambitious artist’s rise, the story delves into the cultural and philosophical debates of the time, examining the commercialism, elitism, and pretensions that dominated the art world. As the protagonist navigates the often cutthroat and self-indulgent world of Parisian art, he finds himself at odds with both the establishment and the radical religious group that claims to follow his ideas, creating a complex and dangerous dynamic.
At its heart, the novel explores themes of artistic integrity, the power of ideas, and the unintended consequences of creative expression. The protagonist’s journey highlights the intersection of art, religion, and politics, forcing both him and the reader to confront the question: Can art, once released into the world, still be controlled by its creator, or does it take on a life—and threat—of its own? As tensions escalate, the narrative pushes toward a dramatic climax, where the fate of not just the art world but global stability hangs in the balance.
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Concise Review:
The story follows the rise of a young American artist, a revolutionary figure with a radical theory about the evolution of art history at the turn of the millennium. His bold ideas, which challenge long-held artistic traditions and redefine the role of art in society, quickly garner attention—but not just from critics and scholars. His theory unintentionally sparks the interest of a violent religious sect that interprets his work as a divine message, giving rise to a dangerous following. As the movement grows, the artist’s once-intellectual revolution becomes the catalyst for global instability, with the extremist group threatening world peace in the name of his ideas.
Set against the vibrant yet fractured postmodern art scene of 1990s Paris, the novel also critiques the pretensions, elitism, and commercialization that dominated the art world during this era. The artist’s journey through this world exposes the deep philosophical and cultural debates of the time, as well as the clash between artistic integrity and the pressures of fame. As he navigates the art world’s convoluted politics, he is forced to confront the unintended consequences of his theory—how ideas, once unleashed, can be co-opted by forces beyond control.
Through this lens, the story examines themes of creativity, power, and the responsibility that comes with revolutionizing thought. It raises profound questions about the role of art in society and how easily it can be twisted into a tool for both liberation and destruction. The artist’s struggle to reclaim his work, and his eventual reckoning with the chaos it has inspired, drives the narrative toward a high-stakes conflict where the fate of global harmony and artistic freedom are intertwined.
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General Thoughts on the Novel:
In this captivating first installment of a bold and ambitious trilogy, the author takes readers on a high-octane journey into the world of art, politics, and espionage. Set in the vibrant yet turbulent landscape of Paris at the turn of the millennium, the story follows the rise of a revolutionary young artist whose radical theory on art history ignites a global firestorm. What begins as a groundbreaking artistic philosophy soon attracts a violent religious faction, transforming his creative vision into a catalyst for political unrest and the potential collapse of world peace.
The narrative skillfully weaves together art and intrigue, anchored by a shocking discovery during the infamous FBI raid at Mar-a-Lago. Declassified papers and the private diaries of a compromised government informer reveal a series of dark historical crimes tied to the artist’s tragic ambition. The novel deftly explores the collision of creativity and ideology, raising questions about the power of art and the unintended consequences of revolutionary ideas.
This gripping spy thriller and murder mystery unfolds with relentless tension, as layers of deception and danger are unraveled. The author masterfully captures the tension and complexity of a world in which contemporary artists are caught in the crossfire of political forces seeking to exploit their work for ideological gain. The portrayal of the postmodern art scene in 1990s Paris serves as both a backdrop and a critique, providing a rich, textured setting for the unfolding drama.
A complex, multilayered plot challenges readers to engage deeply with the narrative, as the story’s many ramifications are revealed. Combining art history, political intrigue, and fast-paced action, this novel is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of creativity and power. Readers who appreciate high-stakes international thrillers with intellectual depth will find this book impossible to put down.
Perfect for fans of espionage, art history, and intricate narratives, this first entry sets the stage for a trilogy that promises to be as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.
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Sep 27, 2024 | Editors' Blog
How we rate this book: Not for Sale delivers a killer plot with gritty subject matter that pulls no punches!
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General Summary for Context:
Artemis Salcido joins forces with the determined sister of a kidnapped girl to uncover and dismantle a massive human trafficking ring in Mexico. As they delve deeper into the criminal underworld, they face danger at every turn, driven by courage and a relentless quest for justice.
This gripping story combines suspense, heart, and unflinching realism, shedding light on the dark and often hidden realities of human trafficking while showcasing the power of resilience and solidarity in the face of evil.
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This novel is a rip-roaring adventure into the seedy underworld of human trafficking, where the wealthy prey on the vulnerable. Artemas Salcido, a one-man army, and his loyal sidekick, Nando, are nearly unstoppable. The addition of Alejandra brings a refreshing balance, providing a strong female heroine who matches the toughness of Salcido and Nando. The plot is gritty and steady-paced, tackling shocking material that feels all too real.Packed with political intrigue and action, the story is both enjoyable and varied. The Mexican setting, along with Artemas’s evolving romantic interest, heightens the tension and urgency of their mission to find the missing girls. The fight scenes are excellent—straight out of a movie—and kept me turning the pages.
The characters are well-crafted and engaging. I was rooting for Alejandra from the start, but despite Artemas’s kick-ass persona, my favorite was Nando, the man of few words!
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General Thoughts on the Novel:
Action-packed and politically charged, this novel delivers a killer plot with gritty subject matter that pulls no punches!
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Not For Sale is available on Amazon.
Sep 27, 2024 | Editors' Blog
How we rate this book: Everything Goes to Dogs is ideal for readers who enjoy thought-provoking, unconventional stories and aren’t afraid to take risks.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
Man was created weak, and any strength is but fleeting. Too soon we are but dead. Dust to Dust.
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General Summary for Context:
Max’s father and uncle once worked together in South Africa, engaging in the illegal smuggling of money out of the country. However, betrayal struck when Max’s uncle absconded with the entire fortune, leaving his brother—and Max—empty-handed. Now, driven by a thirst for vengeance and a need to restore his father’s trust, Max sets out to confront the man who shattered their family.
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Concise Review:
Everything Goes to the Dogs tells the story of Max, a man who fled South Africa in the late 1980s and settled in Australia, where he now teaches business ethics at a university. The novel recounts Max’s life as he navigates academia while secretly plotting revenge against his uncle, who betrayed his family years ago.
Max’s father and uncle had worked together in a country where taking money out was illegal. The two stashed their fortune illicitly, but after his father’s death, Max discovered the account had been emptied by his uncle. With this betrayal fresh in his mind, Max is determined to settle the score.
The author blends humor, travel, mystery, political themes, and family dynamics to craft a story with a distinctive narrative style. The satirical tone may occasionally make the storyline challenging to follow, but the book more than compensates with its sharp wit and engaging plot. The interplay between Max’s present and past is set against the backdrop of political turmoil, enriching the narrative with layers of context.
I recommend Everything Goes to the Dogs to readers who appreciate unique, genre-blurring novels with a sharp sense of humor.
General Thoughts on the Novel:
Everything Goes to the Dogs is a distinctive blend of family drama, revenge, political commentary, and the everyday challenges of life, all delivered through a sharp satirical lens.
While it may take some time to acclimate to the author’s unique writing style, once you do, the narrative draws you in completely. The story offers a biting critique of the times and the actions of those around Max, particularly his family and colleagues, with metaphors that push the boundaries of satire.
I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy thought-provoking, unconventional stories that aren’t afraid to take risks.
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Everything Goes to the Dogs is now available on Amazon.
Sep 9, 2024 | Editors' Blog
How we rate this book: Breathe for Me is ideal for readers who enjoy a suspenseful love story with depth and intensity.
General Summary:
In Breathe for Me, Robert, on the brink of ending his life while rafting in treacherous waters, unexpectedly encounters Lilly, a young woman with the same fatal intent. Driven by a deep, instinctual need to save her, he rescues Lilly from the river and takes her back to his home, where he nurses her back to health.
As Lilly begins to recover, she takes on the role of Robert’s nanny, but the undeniable chemistry between them hints at something more than just a caregiver relationship. Beneath the surface, both are haunted by their pasts—Lilly, who was forced to leave college after becoming pregnant, lost everything, including her child. Devastated by grief, she fled as far as she could, with nothing left to live for.
Meanwhile, a sinister figure lurks in the shadows—a deranged killer with dissociative identity disorder, fixated on Robert. As the tension between Robert and Lilly grows, so does the threat that endangers them both.
Breathe for Me is a gripping blend of suspense and romance, where the characters’ intense struggles with loss and longing are matched only by the danger that stalks them.
Concise Review:
Breathe for Me delves into the lives of two deeply wounded souls, Robert and Lilly, who find each other at their lowest points and discover a reason to keep going.
Robert’s life was shattered when his wife died in a car accident that nearly claimed his child as well. Wracked with guilt and grief, he reflects on the life he left behind in Italy, where he grew up as a prodigiously talented teenager before moving to the States. Though he quickly rose to success and built a thriving company, his work consumed him, leaving little time for his family. When the burden of his regrets becomes unbearable, Robert heads to the river with the intention of ending his life. But there, in the midst of his despair, he spots a woman on the verge of drowning herself—and something within him compels him to save her.
That woman is Lilly, a young mother who lost everything after becoming pregnant in college. Abandoned by her family and boyfriend, she raised her child alone, only to be crushed by grief when her baby died. The weight of her sorrow and self-blame drives her to the brink, where she spends her last bit of money on a journey to end her life as far from her past as possible. But Robert’s intervention pulls her back from the edge, and he brings her home, caring for her until she recovers enough to become the nanny for his child.
As Robert and Lilly navigate their complicated feelings and the “mad tension” that simmers between them, they must also confront the dark forces threatening to destroy them. Someone with a dissociative identity disorder is hunting Robert, determined to see him dead. The suspense builds as this unseen danger draws nearer, intertwining with the burgeoning connection between Robert and Lilly.
Breathe for Me is a fast-paced, suspenseful tale of finding love in the darkest of times. Both Robert and Lilly believe love is the last thing they need, but it may be the only thing that can save them. Despite its exploration of grief, guilt, and the shadows that haunt us, the story carries a powerful message of hope and redemption.
This is the kind of book you’ll want to read in one sitting—its blend of intense emotion, rising tension, and the looming threat of danger will keep you hooked until the very end.
General thoughts on the Novel:
Breathe for Me tackles heavy, emotionally charged themes, including grief over the loss of a loved one, overwhelming guilt, the desperation that leads to thoughts of suicide, and the menace of a killer on the loose. Yet, beneath these dark layers, the story also explores the profound themes of love and hope.
At its core, this is a love story about two people who find their missing halves in the depths of their despair, even as life continually throws obstacles in their path. The narrative is infused with suspense and unfolds at a fast pace that keeps you eagerly turning the pages. The storytelling is gripping, making it hard to put the book down.
Breathe for Me is ideal for readers who enjoy a suspenseful love story with depth and intensity.
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FIND THIS BOOK ON AMAZON HERE: https://www.amazon.com/Breathe-Me-Donna-B-Comeaux-ebook/dp/B0CN4YXGC7/
Sep 6, 2024 | Editors' Blog
How we rate this book: Highly recommended for all managers, business owners and entrepreneurs.
General Summary:
Why do my employees seem to dislike me? Why do they rush out the door at five o’clock sharp? Why do they take extended lunch breaks when there’s so much unfinished work? It couldn’t possibly be ME, right? I’m a nice person—I rarely raise my voice, and I approve of their raises each year when they’re due. So why do they quit, complain, or take so many days off?
Managers and employers worldwide know just how costly employee attrition can be—or worse, the impact of employees who stick around just until something “better” comes along. So, what’s the solution? Is there
even a solution?
According to this author, the answer is a resounding yes. There are strategies managers can implement to show their employees that they are truly appreciated and valued. These include providing support when needed, keeping promises, and upholding the implied contract between employer and employee. In other words, maintaining fairness, respect, and balance in the workplace is key.
Concise Review:
Would you rather have a raise or a heartfelt compliment? According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, once our basic needs—such as food, shelter, and safety—are met, we begin to seek fulfillment of higher-level psychological needs, including esteem and self-actualization. At this stage, individuals require more than just
financial compensation; they seek recognition, respect, and a sense of belonging.
Surprisingly, the affirmation of self-worth in the workplace often comes not from monetary rewards, but from being treated with fairness, respect, and dignity. When employees feel that their contributions are acknowledged and valued, it can have a profound impact on their motivation, satisfaction, and overall engagement.
Managers play a crucial role in fostering this environment. Meeting reasonable expectations, addressing disappointments through open communication, and demonstrating strong, empathetic leadership are essential tools that signal to employees that they are genuinely valued. When employees feel supported and appreciated, they are more likely to be committed, productive, and loyal to the organization.
In essence, while a raise might temporarily boost morale, it’s the consistent, everyday acts of recognition and fairness that create a lasting sense of value and belonging within the company. This, in turn, not only enhances individual well-being but also strengthens the overall culture and success of the organization.
General thoughts on the Novel:
This book takes a hard look at how and why individuals in positions of power within organizations, whether large corporations or small businesses, can unconsciously demean or disrespect their employees. Such behavior can lead to significant consequences, including low productivity, internal dissension, and widespread cultural dissatisfaction. Often, these issues stem from managerial practices that may seem benign but, in reality, erode employee morale and engagement over time.
Managers must critically examine their supervisory practices and strategies, recognizing that even subtle actions or attitudes can contribute to a serious decline in employee satisfaction within their department. While it can be challenging to scrutinize and critique one’s own behavior, it is an essential step for those who aspire to lead a motivated and highly productive workforce. Employees who feel respected, valued, and supported are far more likely to be engaged in their work and contribute positively to the organization.
This book offers the crucial conversations we need to have with ourselves as leaders if our goal is to foster a thriving workplace. It encourages introspection and provides practical guidance on how to make meaningful changes that can transform a struggling team into a cohesive, satisfied, and high-performing unit. By addressing these potential cracks in our leadership approach, we can build a stronger, more resilient organizational culture that benefits everyone involved.
FIND THIS BOOK ON AMAZON HERE: https://tinyurl.com/5n7hyze7
