somewhere between shadow and light by Mariesa Faer

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somewhere between shadow and light by Mariesa Faer

somewhere between shadow and light

is a romantic satire of interwoven stories about family

intimate relationships

menstruation

anxiety and depression

societal patterns

cultural norms

fear and death

love

inner peace

and the quest for one’s inner truth

a spectrum of one human’s shifting perspective

through a growth cycle

recorded in voice

this book is a physical residue of

and tribute to

the awakening of clarity

the poems grow and expand at variant

rates from shadow to light

we each find ourselves in a variance of clarity

at differing moments in time

with differing degrees of light

through which our perceptions serve us

here lies

the etched

entrenched relief

of my journey

somewhere between shadow and light

Review:

What a joy it was to read somewhere between shadow and light by Mariesa Faer.  This book of poems expresses the author’s feelings and thought process with intensity. It completely captivates and moves the reader to pause and reflect on their own lives.

As a reviewer I always write notes as I’m reading, never have I written so many things as I have done whilst reading this wonderful composition of contemplative revelations flowing from the enlightened thought-flow of Mariesa Fael.

These pieces express the author’s experiences in life.  Tiny moments caught in a capsule, committed to ink and paper and recorded for all of time.  So many snippets from this book jumped off the page at me, such things like… who I am has never inspired me so much as who I could be. These poems reflect on a woman’s life, and all the things that define that life.  Encapsulating the turmoil of a female mind that spews out thousands of thoughts a day, this collection captures, compresses, processes, dispatches and then refines to essence, the core of who the writer is.  Touching on issues that all women can relate to, this is a work in three parts that takes the reader from the shadow to the light.

I also have to say that I love the book cover and also the layout of the poems, especially the end, where it gives emphasis to the purpose of these carefully arranged words, these tiny clusters of meaning, which is learning.

With strong, intense and interesting words Mariesa Faer allows you to feel her emotions.  This is one of those rare poetry books that I know I shall read again and again.  Thought-provoking and inspiring, somewhere between shadow and light by Mariesa Faer comes highly recommended by Chick Lit Café. ~Book review by TN Traynor for Chick Lit Café Book Reviews.

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Outbreak (The Dark Days Series) by Christopher Cole

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Outbreak (The Dark Days Series) by Christopher Cole

Cities are bombed out ruins and wilderness is humanity’s new home. The undead roam the earth, and the new world order is about the struggle to survive. Sonny Daniels begins an emotional and physical journey of personal survival and protecting those he loves.

While survival is a constant struggle, Sonny’s most desperate fight is the struggle preserve some semblance of a compassionate soul. Sonny and his parents are caught in the zombie outbreak in upstate New York. After the passage of the first year, their base is attacked by bandits and their safety has again been compromised. Fearing for their loved ones, Sonny’s parents send him and his orphaned childhood friends, Ashley and Carrie, to Fort Denver Colorado on a military plane.

When Fort Denver is overrun with zombies, the three are alone in a zombie infested wasteland without the army’s protection, forced to rely upon one another and a handful of equally desperate survivors they encounter along the journey. Sonny is determined to do whatever it takes to protect Ashley and Carrie while finding a safe place to call home, but survival can force you to make dark decisions.

Review:

Outbreak (The Dark Days Series) by Christopher Cole is an exceptional and compelling coming of age story set in a post-apocalyptic world. A zombie outbreak in upstate New York creates unfiltered tension and comprises the safety of Sonny Daniels and his parents. Their escape from the disease and mayhem at home to safety at Fort Drum was a perilous journey. Normal people now infected with an unknown disease became monsters attacking and killing anyone crossing their paths. The government is in disarray and survival depends on oneself.

Fearful of the future, Sonny’s parents had no choice but send him along with two or his orphaned friends to Fort Denver Colorado on a military plane. The parents’ nightmare soon becomes an epic story of survival of the fittest for their son and his friends.

Christopher Cole is a masterful writer who infuses catastrophic destruction into a city and plays out the outcome for the residents in bizarre circumstances. He has created a story of psychological warfare in a doomsday setting with young characters ill-equipped to withstand the pressure of securing physical safety for themselves.

The opening statement is taut and suspenseful. You immediately want to know what happened to change his belief and loss of hope. You’ll read page after page for the author draws you into the story and holds your attention to the end.

 Christopher Cole has produced an outstanding SCI-FI action-adventure that touches on the fears and insecurities of coming of age. Add a new world order, where the undead roam the earth and invade the status-quo and you have an award-winning novel of epic proportion. A must-read for SCI-FI fans. Outbreak (The Dark Days Series) by Christopher Cole is highly recommended by Artisan Book Reviews. ~ Book review by CJ Bowen for ABR

Don’t miss this extraordinary read!

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Unfinished Justice by Janis Hutchinson

Unfinished Justice by Janis Hutchinson

Synopsis:

In this 1935 historical suspense thriller, praised as “riveting and gripping” (Robert Dugoni, NY Times Best Seller of My Sister’s Grave), Ed Bowman, small town reporter for the Casey Clarion in Virginia, is unjustly convicted for the murder of his wife, committed by an escaped prisoner whose murder trial he just covered with an exclusive article that virtually guaranteed a guilty verdict.

Sentenced to life in the State Penitentiary, and losing faith in God to right his situation, he determines to redeem his shattered life and makes a daring escape to track down the killer in a high-risk chase across six states to the salt flats of Wendover, Utah. But an unexpected betrayal by a befriended Mormon leader brings his plans to a sudden stop, leaving him with no hope short of a miracle.

Review:

Unfinished Justice is a novel set in 1935 and based on the true story of Ed Bowman, a reporter for a small town newspaper in Virginia. When Ed covers the murder trial of Gunther Buford, he writes an exclusive article after overhearing a confidential conversation between Buford’s defense attorneys that virtually guarantees a guilty verdict. The man is convicted and sentenced to die in the electric chair.

Buford breaks out of prison, intent on seeking revenge by killing the reporter who wrote the story. But in the ensuing violence, Ed’s wife is killed instead and Buford flees. In an ironic twist Ed is convicted of his wife’s murder and sentenced to life on a chain gang. For years Ed labors while being viciously abused. Finally, after four long years of planning his escape, Ed manages to gain his freedom.

Determined to locate Gunther Buford and bring him to justice, Ed tracks Buford to the small town of Wendover, Utah where the man has a new identity and occupation, and has also changed his appearance. Ed now has to determine who Buford really is, find evidence to prove he killed his wife, then clear his own name by bringing him to justice.

Unfinished Justice is a fast paced, riveting story filled with injustice, danger and even some romance. Extensive research by Janis Hutchinson went into this hard core novel that depicts life on chain gangs back in the 30’s. The descriptions are vivid and shocking to read, yet very engaging and enthralling.

The characters are well developed and fleshed out. Ed evolves throughout the story and comes to realize that God was with him the whole time. He is a strong, likeable character who is relatable. The author did a great job with all the characters and descriptions, and I felt like I knew them and was there with them.

Unfinished Justice is a fascinating read which features a time in the past that rarely gets portrayed in historical fiction novels. It reminds me of the fugitive, but slightly different. The harshness of chain gang life is depicted accurately and brilliantly.

This is one of the best suspense, thriller and fugitive type stories I have ever read. It is a gripping page-turner. I couldn’t put it down and kept reading faster and faster to find out what was going to happen next. Janis Hutchinson is an excellent writer and has done a beautiful job with Unfinished Justice. The storyline is full and exciting. The ending is intense and satisfying. I would read this one again―it’s that good.

Chick Lit Cafe highly recommends Unfinished Justice by Janis Hutchinson.

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Finding Lisa by Sigrid Macdonald - 5 Star Book Review

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Finding Lisa by Sigrid Macdonald

Synopsis:

Tara Richards is unhappy with her job as a rehabilitation nurse and disenchanted with her marriage, but lacks the courage to make a major life change. When her best friend Lisa disappears, Tara’s life is thrown into turmoil. Has Lisa jeopardized her sobriety by going on a drinking binge or is she hiding the news that she may be pregnant from her partner Ryan, who has a history of battering, and it’s not his baby? Lisa is her rock, her confidant, her reality check. Tara can’t live without her. Despite the near paralysis of bad hair days and her dread of turning forty, Tara joins a massive search to look for her friend in conjunction with the police, her colorful women’s collective, Lisa’s old-world Italian parents, and a twenty-four-year-old man Tara finds particularly captivating.

Finding Lisa explores diverse themes such as missing women, victims of domestic violence, female friendships, addiction, midlife crisis, and unrequited love. With pathos and humor, the story delves into the inner world of a quirky and likable Canadian woman whose life is about to be irrevocably changed by her best friend’s disappearance.

Review:

Finding Lisa by Sigrid Macdonald is a powerful, thought-provoking, mystery/suspense and a five star story that will keep you turning pages.

I really love books that have a strong, yet unique protagonist and therefore I was delighted to be introduced to Tara.  Tara tells us this story in her own words and lets us in to her deepest, and sometimes dark, thoughts.  She’s a great character with lots of quirks!  I laughed out loud when she tells us her feelings are hurt because Monday (the pet dog) enjoys licking the sofa just as much as he enjoys licking her hand.  There are lots of one-liners like this that help to keep this rather serious story buoyant and upbeat.

Packed with facts about missing people and domestic violence it is clear to see the author has great knowledge about these issues, and touches on them with careful consideration and a raw honesty that touched me.  I thought I was going to read a story about finding one’s self, with a look at how we reach middle age and deal with dissatisfaction.  And, at first that’s what I saw.  The woman next door, approaching forty and not happy with what she sees in the mirror.  Brilliant touch by Sigrid Macdonald to have the running saga of the eternal bad-hair-day reflecting externally what was going on in Tara’s mind and spirit.  However, there was such a lot more to this story.

Finding Lisa is a powerful and compelling book about relationships.  Four people fill most of Tara’s life.  Her best friend Lisa, with their honesty and secret sharing; her husband Mark, who seems to have faded into the background; her son Devon, (this was probably my favorite) which moves from a totally funny, teenage-to-mother stereo type relationship into something moving and real.  And lastly, there’s Alain… the young man in the store that has caught Tara’s attention and affections.  He is such a sweet character in this story.

One evening Tara is having a conversation with her best friend Lisa, the next morning Lisa is missing and the search begins.  In the two weeks that follow, Tara will go through a lifetime of emotions.  What’s happened to Lisa?  The shocking truth is not revealed until the very end and it will have you sitting on the end of your chair.  Gripping, compelling and a darn good read. Finding Lisa by Sigrid Macdonald comes highly recommended by Chick Lit Café. ~ Reviewed by T N Traynor for Chick Lit Café.~

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The Winds of Happiness by Teresa Fiedler-Buss

The Winds of Happiness: Irie’s Adventures by Teresa Fiedler-Buss – Illustrated by Bailey Traxler

Synopsis:

Welcome to this crazy world called life!

Have you ever wanted to go on an adventure? Do you like taking selfies?

How attached are you to your electronics or tablet? Do you like robots and drones more?

Would you rather dance and have fun with bubbles? Or would you rather go out for pizza and a movie?

If you answered yes to one of these questions, then you will LOVE this book!

The Winds of Happiness will engage children in a fun and current way to learn important life lessons.

Your child/student’s values start developing with what is taught and learned in social and personal situations.
If you are a parent, guardian or teacher wanting to assist in making a difference in today’s society, this book is for you.

This book includes children discussions, interactive pages and teacher lesson plans which will help with
Common Core State Standard (CCSS) & Social Emotional Learning (SEL).

Review:

The Winds of Happiness: Irie’s Adventures by Teresa Fiedler-Buss is a cute and colorful narrative about an adventurous and laid back, but lively spirited dog named Irie, and her cheerful and energetic bunch of friends. This is a delightful must-read book for every child in your life.

Irie’s friends are always reminding her to be creative, make her own fun but most importantly always be herself! Irie goes on all sorts of fantastic adventures in The Winds of Happiness! One being an incredible day at a splash pad with a DJ and bubbles! Irie learns she doesn’t need technology to have a good time, she can create her own awesome day with musical inspiration and perseverance to “make it happen!”  Another adventure tells of Irie’s birthday at the movies and pizza with her friends Max and Bubba. Throughout the day, Max has issues with social anxiety and uses his tablet to comfort himself and keep his mind off crowded situations. But what he doesn’t realize is his actions start to affect the people and mechanics around him! Being the empathetic friend Irie is, she helps Max get through this troublesome situation with kindness and apprehension. A wonderful reminder to have patience with others and to try to see through someone else’s eyes. And how true friends always help each other out.

The Winds of Happiness touches on many different common and important themes to help a child with emotional growth and development. Such as; learning about coping with life changes, having goals and dreams, important lessons in manners and following rules correctly and responsibly. It gives clear instruction and details with a helpful outline guide that shows key points to be made while reading and how to integrate this book into a lesson plan. Which makes it the perfect book for all types of unit studies in the classroom and for homeschoolers.

I absolutely adored this lovable and wholesome children’s book that made my kids and I smile nonstop from the beginning to the end! Bailey Traxler’s bright and expressive illustrations went along with the story and told it perfectly. Giving it a vivid pizzazz no other children’s book has ever done with such a cool style.

With its unique cast of characters and an entertaining storyline I would greatly recommend The Winds of Happiness: Irie’s Adventures by Teresa Fiedler-Buss to all parents of kids looking for a feel good story full of positive vibes and undeniable contagious good energy!! This one has a permanent spot in our kid’s lit corner at our home!!
Reviewed by Beatrix Bloom for Chick Lit Cafe.

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High Flying by Kaylin McFarren

High Flying by Kaylin McFarren

Skylar Haines has struggled with personal demons most of her life, going to dark extremes to subdue anxieties rooted in her tragic past. On a perpetual hunt for the next adrenaline hit, she discovers a passion for flying and becomes a hard-edged stunt pilot, verging on obsession. In the sky, following her most daring airshow, she encounters a mysterious storm and almost collides with another aircraft, sending her into a perilous dive. Guided by a mysterious voice, she manages a safe landing but finds herself transported to another time. Eight months before she was born. One week before her father was murdered. Though baffled by her circumstances, Skylar soon arrives at a single certainty: Before her lies a remarkable chance to change her family’s destiny drastically for the better — or possibly even worse — depending on the choices she makes, before her window of opportunity closes.

Review:

High Flying  by Kaylin McFarren is an enthralling, suspenseful thriller. Readers will be on the edge of their seat while devouring this electrifying, 5 star novel and story.

Starting with a punch we open the first page and meet Skylar Haines, immediately entering into her dark world.  Skylar, despite her awful upbringing, is a dynamic young woman who we can instantly root for.  What caused her psychological need to hurt herself is unfolded, like layers of an onion, throughout the book.

With an absorbing, fast-paced plot that keeps you turning the pages quickly, and Kaylin McFarren’s strong writing style you will find it hard to put this book down.

Time travel stories can be confusing, but not so with High Flying.  The story only covers three time periods, which are clearly defined and easy to follow.  As with all great time travel tales we are presented with second chances and an opportunity to right a wrong.  What I loved about Skylar’s adventure wasn’t so much the chance to change the past, but an opportunity to accept the present.  Will understanding the past help her to embrace herself in the future?  Will the pain of the past bring enough healing into the present to allow her to love in the future?

Skylar is such a strong character and seems so self-reliant, and yet the need for affection and a loving touch is always just under the surface making her so endearing. There are other remarkable main characters in the book, like her father Dylan, holding the male-lead. He is a complex person, and I couldn’t make out if he was good or bad… until the end.  Very clever writing!  There is a good mix of supporting roles, but Skylar is the star who shines brightest.

Most of the book takes place in 1997 in Chino CA and revolves around drug smuggling.  Skylar finds herself in-between police and criminals and ends up in some tricky situations.  All she really wants to do is save her friend but this seems impossible as she is sucked into an adrenaline packed caper with ruthless killers.

This story is a gripping, page-turning, adventure thriller, holding your attention until the very last page. With outstanding well-developed characters, an exciting storyline and plot and the author’s unique expressive writing style, High Flying by Kaylin McFarren is an absolute must-read novel and highly recommended by Chick Lit Café.
Reviewed by T.N. Traynor for Chick Lit Café

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Neptune’s Chalice by M.J. Feinauer

Neptune’s Chalice by M.J. Feinauer

Synopsis:

It is the mid-twenty first century. The world is recovering from what scholars will refer to as the “Jihad War.”

Nations of the world united to bring a permanent end to radical terrorism. The unification of the nations has also given birth to the popular concept of a governing “World Union,” in which the United States intends to be a major player. The timing could not be any better. A presidential election year is on the horizon and a faceless rouge element is committed to having one of their own in the White House.

There were extreme losses of life and property in the concentrated battle theater of the Middle East.

The leading nations of the world emerged victorious over the oppressive extremists that threatened the civil and moral fabric of modern society. The high price of victory was unavoidable.

Nuclear weapons were used in order to bring the destructive war to an abrupt end.

The United States found itself as the sole military and financial leader of the world’s war against the radical terrorists. The war’s length lasted far beyond what had been predicted, diminishing many of the United States resources specifically, its wealth. Bringing the proud nation to the brink of bankruptcy.

Radiation from the nuclear weapons contaminated 85% of the water supply in the Middle East and large amounts were now being detected in the Atlantic Ocean.

A private and well-funded individual has been anticipating a catastrophe such as this, and has spun a web so delicate, its victims don’t realize they are trapped until it’s too late. She has assembled the best minds in order to develop a device that would instantly purify polluted and contaminated water.

However, this device is not being developed for humanitarian reasons. It is being developed for wealth and power. Not for an individual, but for a nation…the United States of America.

Neptune’s Chalice by M.J. Feinauer is a 5 Star – Must read book which has received rave reviews from Amazon readers and reviewers.

Amazon Reviews:

5 Stars – Riveting…so compelling, I could not put it down.Engrossing and exciting story and very timely in our politically/environmentally charged world. Great characters to love and hate… This story is well written, and developed. It would make a GREAT movie. My only problem with this book is that it ENDED, as I wanted to read on and on. So for that reason, I am so looking forward to reading more in the next book….. Impatiently waiting. I highly recommend this book.

5 Stars – Nail Biting Page TurnerMr. Feinauer is a born story teller. He spins a thrilling tale seeped in dirty politics and bright young things who are biting off more than they can chew. However, it’s an exciting race of good vs. evil that will keep you guessing, page after page, until the very end. An absolute must-read for those who love reading action-packed thrillers, especially one as exciting and well written as Neptune‘s Chalice.

5 Stars – Magnificent concept and storyline.A great fictional story written in the not so distant future about a world saving device, the corruption at the highest levels of our government, and all the intrigue and murder surrounding it. A magnificent concept and story line that will leave you wanting more.

5 Stars – Neptune’s Chalice -Great plotInteresting plot. Intense throughout the book. Very detailed. Loved the characters. Not a boring moment. Can’t wait for second book!!

5 Stars – Loved it!Loved Neptune’s Chalice! I’ve been eagerly waiting on this novel and it did not disappoint. The story was well developed and easy to follow. Very intriguing. Loved the characters! I hated that it had to end. I wanted to keep reading. Hurry up Michael and write the next one! I think this would make an excellent movie. I already have the movie stars picked out. A must read!

5 Stars – Neptune’s Chalice – Awesome
Very intriguing! Looking forward to the next book!

5 Stars – The book that you won’t put down!Such an intense and involved story with very possible situations. Love the main characters! I surely hope there is a sequel!

Don’t miss out on this amazing read Purchase Neptune’s Chalice by M.J. Feinauer Today!
 Watch Neptune’s Chalice – Book Trailer by Clicking Here & Scrolling Down a Bit

Artisan Book Reviews highly recommends Neptune’s Chalice by M.J. Feinauer

The Truth About Gretchen by Alretha Thomas

                 

The Truth About Gretchen (Dancing Hills Series Book 2) by Alretha Thomas

Synopsis:

Gretchen Holloway, in her final year of graduate school, is in the throes of auditioning actors for her thesis film, inspired by a murdered young football star who has haunted her dreams for two years. Gretchen believes making the movie will be cathartic. But instead of freeing her, embarking upon the film production unleashes a sequence of events that lead Gretchen to conclude that she’s the reincarnation of the young man.

Regina Wilson has always wanted to be an actress. When her agent gets her an audition for a role in Gretchen’s film, which eerily mirrors one of the worst events of her life—the unsolved murder of her older brother, Robert—she’s hard-pressed to go through with it. Upon fleeing, she leaves behind a keepsake that features Robert’s photo. Gretchen sees the picture and recognizes Robert from her dreams. She tracks down Regina, and after being rebuffed and called crazy, Gretchen’s unexplainable knowledge of events in Robert’s life eventually convinces Regina that Gretchen is Robert reincarnated.

The two decide to have his case reopened, but their significant others are dead set against it, and the police, who believe that Robert’s death was gang-related, are less than cooperative. However, Gretchen is desperate to get justice for her former self, and Regina wants justice for her brother. The women piece together the final week of Robert’s life. And the deeper they delve into his past; one shocking revelation follows another, leaving them wondering who they can trust and if they’ll live long enough to find Robert’s killer and bring him to justice.

Chick Lit Cafe’s Review:

The Truth About Gretchen by award winning author, Alretha Thomas is an intriguing, captivating mystery unlike anything I have ever read. This is one of those rare books that must be made into a movie. Readers are in for a surprise with this suspense filled, mysterious and emotional book.

Gretchen Holloway has been cursed with recurring nightmares about a young man who has been murdered. She is a graduate film student, and feels a strong need to make a movie about her dreams and what she sees.  Regina Wilson’s brother, Robert, was murdered twenty-six years ago, and it has since gone unsolved. She is an actress about to audition for the leading role in Gretchen’s film, but she backs out at the last minute with the chilling feeling that the film strangely resembles her own brother’s murder. However, she mistakenly leaves something behind which Gretchen finds. This seemingly insignificant item bonds Gretchen and Regina together in an intriguing, momentous and spiritual way.

Alretha Thomas’ expressive writing style captivated me from the very first chapter. I quickly connected with Gretchen and Regina, as I felt their emotions, heard their thoughts and could picture the entire scene as they were driven to find Robert’s killer. With a powerful original premise and compelling storyline woven together beautifully, The Truth About Gretchen is the best book I have read in years. It is magnificently written in the first person of the two main characters. This story is a rollercoaster ride with many dirty players involved. With a depth rarely seen in mystery and suspense books, the author has created a one-of-a-kind story with remarkable, relatable and likable characters and compelling clues that all come to shape magnificently, drawing the reader further and further in at every turn of the page. The conclusion is astounding.

The Truth About Gretchen by Alretha Thomas is a welcome gift to all readers who love mysteries that go beyond the ordinary. But, instead delves into extraordinary unique elements that will keep them coming back for more from this noteworthy author. This is a 5 star must read book!

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Feast of Men by Ayn Dillard - Book Review

Feast of Men: Story of a Woman’s Heart by Ayn Dillard

Synopsis:

A woman’s magical mysterious, nightmarish, adventurous journey through men on her quest to have a better understanding of the male energy on her search to find genuine and everlasting love. Just as life brings her the masculine offering of a chance for love, along with experiencing another aspect of herself in reflection – her heart is disappointed even broken. She then is given the opportunity to heal, as she becomes even more aware of the masculine energy and her relation to it, along with a deeper awareness of her imprints and beliefs. As she travels forward on her journey, the pieces come together, break and then come together again offering her the ability to become more aware and whole. What if Eve was leading Adam to the opportunity to experience all and every dimension of life? The feminine as it relates to masculine and masculine as it relates to feminine. Male and female rubbing souls against one another for the possibility and benefit of what love creates and heals. And this is exactly what God intended – in the full power of ‘his knowing’ – that only a woman would be able to entice a man to do so. God, after all created the serpent along with the opportunity for choice without which there would be no dark defining light challenges on earth.

Review:

The author, Ayn Dillard, has skillfully written a novel that bares the soul, incites the reader with the injustice and cruelty of a narcissistic father, as they join Natalie Duncan on her journey to release her past and find true love.

Natalie’s relationships have a tendency to build up her hopes, only to fall apart as the men who initially pursue her have not dealt with their individual struggles and issues. After three painful divorces, Natalie is ready to find genuine and lasting love. On her way home from visiting a wealthy playboy architect, she is swept off her feet by a handsome airline Captain. The events of the day magically draw them together with the promise of everything she has ever dreamed of. However her moral determination will not allow the relationship to progress until after he has legally left his unhappy marriage. Making this decision, leaves her feeling abandoned. While waiting for the outcome, on a whim she answers an ad and meets another man who appears to be a possible partner, until his personality unfolds and she finds herself questioning. Woven into her heart-felt psychological journey, she endures the cruel jibes of her father. Desiring his approval and affection, she is met with his disappointment and hostility. Added to this, is the betrayal by a prominent local businessman who employs her to write a book with him that turns into his unwanted sexual advances. Natalie proves to be an exceptional woman of strength and character who is dealt repeated cruel blows in her search to discover herself, heal from her family dynamics and achieve her dreams. The book culminates into a cliffhanger making the reader wonder how Natalie will be able to deal with all she has been dealt and which man will win her heart.

The author, Ayn Dillard, has written a moving and emotive novel that examines the human psyche. She described her own inner turmoil in such an intricate and personal way that it draws the reader into her journey to feel he depth of her emotions. The complex relationships are related in intimate detail which helps the reader to understand her need and search. This is a stunning piece of writing that really examines the soul and opens the heart and will leave every reader wondering about their own loves, dreams and desires. It’s not just about love and companionship, but about truth. It’s about the need to be desired and ultimately about understanding who you are and feeling comfortable with what you discover as energy frequencies try to align. The depth of this author’s affection, tenderness and sentiment are reflected perfectly in Natalie. Throughout this story the reader is led to empathize with her and to have the desire that she finds fulfillment and happiness though love.

FEAST OF MEN examines the intricacies of the female heart and mind juxtaposed against that of the male and emphasizes every human’s need for genuine love and understanding. You will not easily forget this novel or this author. This is a novel that truly has the heart and soul of the writer on every page.

Purchase Feast of Men: Story of a Woman’s Heart by Ayn Dillard today!

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk: Picture Book about a Spunky Vehicle for Children age 2 – 6 by Nadishka Aloysius

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk: Picture Book about a Spunky Vehicle for Children age 2 – 6 by Nadishka Aloysius

Synopsis:

If you and your family love CULTURAL DIVERSITY and TRAVEL then this is the book for you

Roo is a little Tuk Tuk. Join Roo as he recalls the many ups and downs of his life on the roads of Colombo (the commercial capital of Sri Lanka). From road races, to Polo tournaments, to animal rescues, this little vehicle has lived life to its fullest. Experience the joys and perils of Tuk Tuks on the streets, and learn many life lessons along the way with this courageous Tuk Tuk who is always ready to lend a helping hand and spread some cheer. You are never too little to make a difference…

Also known as tri-shaws or three wheelers, Tuk Tuks are a common sight in the eastern world. All foreign visitors are encouraged to ride a Tuk Tuk at least once when they visit Sri Lanka: but the recommendation also goes with a warning to HOLD ON TIGHT! 

All the incidents in this book are adapted from news stories and Facebook posts of real life Tuk Tuk drivers who are unafraid to be more than just a means of transportation. So, (I’d say ‘buckle your seatbelt’ but there are no seatbelts in Tuk Tuks…!), enjoy some of the sights and sounds of beautiful Colombo and its wonderful people as you read this book that also teaches you – you are never too little to make a difference!

*** Includes a JIGSAW PUZZLE for you to print and play*** 

Review:

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk by Nadishka Aloysius is a delightful story about an adorable little Tuk Tuk vehicle who reminisces about his life filled with adventure, excitement, fun and service through his love for helping others.

This is such a unique and charming picture book for young children. Before I read this wonderful book, I had the notion that “Tuk Tuk” was a cute word the author, Nadishka Aloysius cleverly came up with for the book in order to make it extra special and appealing to kids. I was amazed to discover that it is an actual vehicle used in Colombo, Sri Lanka to transport people. What a nice and surprising experience for children to enjoy a story filled with fun and adventure while learning something new. Roo is a little Tuk Tuk who has had an exciting and meaningful life full of interesting and fun experiences. Giving people rides and hauling books to help for charity are just some of the many important things Roo has had the pleasure of doing in his little Tuk Tuk life. Roo is red, sweet, kind and loves to help others. Now he is older and ready to rest and retire. What will become of Roo the little red Tuk Tuk who has spent a lifetime of service, whizzing around while helping and caring about others? Children will be delighted at the happy ending of this endearing, lovable and original picture book. Nadishka Aloysius has done a remarkable job of creating a wonderful imaginative story. She has written it so very young children will understand the meaningful narrative, and be thrilled with the storyline. The pictures, created by Illustrator, Privanka Fonseka are lively, vivid and captivating. I read Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk to my young granddaughters, ages 2, 3 and 5. They were excited and thrilled by all of the action, adventure, bright colors – and the sweet and engaging story of little Roo. They delighted in the colorful pictures, and loved all the many different sounds that Roo made while he buzzed around the city. Now, they want it read to them often, and this book has helped to further teach them the meaning and importance of caring about, and helping others.

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk is a must read book and story for all young children, and I am certain they will love totally love it! It is so special, adventuresome and delightful! Artisan Book Reviews recommends Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk: Picture Book about a Spunky Vehicle for Children age 2 – 6 by Nadishka Aloysius to all parents, grandparents and caregivers for those special little ones in your life. And don’t forget, it comes with a cute jig saw puzzle for kids to have fun and play with, as well.

Purchase Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk: Picture Book about a Spunky Vehicle for Children age 2 – 6 by Nadishka Aloysius today!