Book Review: The Echo of Old Book by Barbara Davis

Title: The Echo of Old Books

Author: Barbara Davis
Genre: Historical Mystery - Romance
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: March 28, 2023
ISBN: 9781662511608
Read: March 4-9, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a digital advance reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Rare-book dealer Ashlyn Greer’s affinity for books extends beyond the intoxicating scent of old paper, ink, and leather. She can feel the echoes of the books’ previous owners―an emotional fingerprint only she can read. When Ashlyn discovers a pair of beautifully bound volumes that appear to have never been published, her gift quickly becomes an obsession. Not only is each inscribed with a startling incrimination, but the authors, Hemi and Belle, tell conflicting sides of a tragic romance. 

With no trace of how these mysterious books came into the world, Ashlyn is caught up in a decades-old literary mystery, beckoned by two hearts in ruins, whoever they were, wherever they are. Determined to learn the truth behind the doomed lovers’ tale, she reads on, following a trail of broken promises and seemingly unforgivable betrayals. The more Ashlyn learns about Hemi and Belle, the nearer she comes to bringing closure to their love story―and to the unfinished chapters of her own life.

Review: The Echo of Old Books is the first book I've read from Barbara Davis, and I really enjoyed it. Part historical mystery, part historical romance, part modern "coming to terms with self," the story is emotional and haunting.

Ashlyn Greer hasn't had the easiest life after losing both parents at a young age. However, things seem to be on the upswing when she inherits An Unlikely Story, a rare and used bookstore, where she's spent many happy hours and learned the craft of restoring old books. Beyond her love for books is a special ability Ashlyn is only starting to fully understand: she can sense and connect with the residual psychic impressions left behind by a book's previous owner(s). It's a gift that makes running An Unlikely Story interesting, but when Ashlyn happens upon two unique books, her gift quickly takes a slightly darker turn.

The books she discovers are written by two authors, Belle and Hemi, but are alike in appearance. One is titled "Forgetting Belle" and is written by Hemi, and the other is titled "Forever and Other Lies" and is written by Belle. However, both books detail the same torrid love affair between the two authors but from different perspectives. It doesn't take long for Ashlyn to become obsessed and soon finds herself in the midst of a decades old romance and mystery.

The Echo of Old Books is well-written and obviously benefits from a lot of detailed research on Davis's part. The stories of Hemi, Belle, and Ashlyn are seven together like a beautiful tapestry hanging against the backdrop of old books. Given Ashlyn's psychic gift, there is a touch of magical realism to the story, which only serves to bring emotions to the forefront and heighten the reader's need to keep turning pages. 

Closed for New Review Submissions

 

Memento Nerdy is temporarily closed to new review submissions as I work to clear out a backlog of reviews. I apologize for any inconvenience, but this is a necessary step in order for me to catch up on everything. 

Memento Nerdy has always been a one-woman-show and will continue to be so in the future. I don't like closing to new submissions, but it's not forever. 

I hope to reopen for submissions June 1.

Thank you for understanding and for your support of Memento Nerdy.

Jeannie

Book Review: You Can Draw Cute Animals by Yasmina Mattson

 

Title: You Can Draw Cute Animals

Author: Yasmina Mattson
Genre: Art - Drawing
Publisher: Quarry Books - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: January 10, 2023
Read: December 28, 2022
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Learn how to draw any animal and turn it into a sweet, delightful creature that always inspires a smile. 

You Can Draw Cute Animals features easy techniques for turning up the charm on 30 animals that run, fly, swim, slither, and waddle. Discover how to create sparkling eyes, blushing cheeks, joyful smiles, and button noses, transforming even the most ferocious beasts into delightful, appealing characters. 

This comprehensive guide to understanding the secrets of cute begins with basic drawing techniques and exercises and a rundown of what factors make things adorable. Yasmina Mattson of Yasmina Creates (Instagram: @yasminacreates) has devised a unique, easy, three-step drawing method that includes observation, simplification and exaggeration using simple shapes, and refining and adding details. 

Those techniques are incorporated in creating a diverse array of animals, including a panda, monkey, kangaroo, tiger, cat, goat, hedgehog, owl, crow, fox, deer, snail, butterfly, seal, duck, flamingo, and more. Even complete beginners will feel confident in their skills to draw any animal in a cute style. Explore ways to add vivid color with watercolor, pencils, and markers, to add even more personality and style. Play and experiment for a creatively satisfying experience. 

Review: Who doesn't love cute animals? Why settle for photos when you can create your own illustrations? Yasmina Mattson presents a step-by-step guide for drawing a full menagerie of cute animals, and it doesn't matter if you're an experienced art or have never picked up a pencil with the intent to drawing anything until now. Her easy writing style and fully illustrated how-to instructions make it super easy to not only learn how to draw basic animals but gives you the tools to explore and create your style.

I really liked that Mattson begins with the story of how she came into her own style of drawing. She then gives a list of supplies and techniques she uses but encourages the reader to find what works for them. While Mattson mostly works with watercolors, if the reader prefers colored pencils and markers or pastels and Conté crayons, it's no problem. The techniques demonstrated in the book are easily translated to any art media. 

Mattson breaks down the art of drawing "cuties," as she calls them, into three simple steps: 1) Observe 2) Play 3) Refine. Each of these is then further broken down with exercises to build confidence. She also covers additional information such as "The Rules of Cuteness," adding accessories and clothing, backgrounds, body shapes, dynamic poses, and storytelling. 

You Can Draw Cute Animals packs a lot of information into 128-pages as well as plenty of vibrant illustrations that are educational as well as inspiring. If you've ever wanted to learn the art of drawing cute animals, Yasmina Mattson offers a book that should be at the top of your must-have list.

Book Review: Nourishing Vegan Every Day by Amy Lanza

Title: Nourishing Vegan Every Day

Author: Amy Lanza
Genre: Cookbook - Vegan
Publisher: Fair Winds Press - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: January 3, 2023
Read: December 10, 2022
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Nourishment meets flavor in this collection of vibrant and delicious vegan recipes. 

Nourishing Vegan Every Day embraces the flow of everyday life by providing recipes that range from nutritious to decadent, recognizing the important balance between time and taste buds. Whether you’re in need of a quick and energizing breakfast or a show-stopping meal to impress your guests, this book will provide inspiration for delectable plant-based meals. 

With gorgeous photography for every recipe and helpful kitchen tips, discover family favorites like Cheesy Pesto Tomato Swirl Buns; weeknight meals like Cashew Cauliflower and Spinach Dahl; and delightful vegan desserts like Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake. 

Beyond bringing flavorful meals to the kitchen table, this book creates a basis for nourishment and satisfaction, giving you the tools to build your own plant-based pantry. From kitchen staples to easy vegan swaps, learn more about low-waste meal preparation and methods to enhance your cooking experience as you craft delicious meals, snacks, and desserts. 

Breakfast: Nourish on the go with quick morning recipes such as Nourish Me Smoothies or Overnight Oats! The choice is yours. 

Brunch: Lazy weekends and beautiful brunches are the perfect time to serve up towering plates of delicious Chocolate Chip Raspberry Waffles or Vegan Eggs Benedict. 

Lunches, Salads, and Light Meals: Liven up your lunch break with easy-to-prep recipes like Herby Chickpea Tabouleh Salad and Moroccan Style Quinoa Salad. 

Dinner: Vegan dinner has never been more versatile! Chock full of vegetables and nourishment, recipes like Sweet Potato Gnocchi and Sesame Chili and Garlic Tofu Noodles will be a hit at the dinner table. 

Snacks: Easy recipes such as No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Muesli Bars and 2-Ingredient Flatbreads will have you reaching for homemade plant-based snacks, whether you’re craving something salty or sweet. 

Desserts: Enjoy a variety of vegan treats sure to satisfy any sweet tooth, such as No-Churn Salted Caramel Cookie Dough Ice Cream or Apple and Blackberry Crumble Pie. 

Celebration and Gathering Dishes: These sweet and savory recipes will prove to be crowd-pleasers at your next gathering. Impress your family and friends with a Vegan Celebrations Snack Board or Pumpkin Layer Cake.

Review: I don't often review cookbooks, but I am happily making an exception for Nourishing Vegan Every Day by Amy Lanza. OMG...I want to cook up every single recipe in this book! Over the past year or so, I've been steadily transitioning to a fully vegan diet--no small feat when living in small town Mississippi and the term "vegan" is often misunderstood as meaning "those little green guys from Venus" or maybe someone hailing from Las Vegas. Either way, telling someone you're vegan in Mississippi means they'll more than likely look at you as though you've sprouted two heads. Thankfully, there are a plethora of cookbooks on the market catering to the vegan/plant-based lifestyle.

Amy Lanza's dishes in Nourishing Vegan Every Day are hunger-inducing. (My stomach began growling almost instantly!) Using simple, easily sourced ingredients each recipe seduces the reader/cook to try it. What can be more simple than whipping up a batch of overnight oats? Easily when provided multiple variations? And the Vegan Eggs Benedict...oh, honey. Eggs Benedict have been a favorite of mine since my dad introduced them to me when I was a teen. Now I can have a vegan version of them? Yes, please! From breakfast and brunch to lunch and dinner to desserts and more, every page is filled with mouthwatering recipes and bright, colorful photos you'll want to lick because they look so amazing. (Gingerbread Layer Cake, I'm looking at you, and you, too, Salted Caramel Cookie Dough Ice Cream...)

Whether you're new to the vegan lifestyle, curious about the plant-based food hype, or just looking to incorporate more healthy meal alternatives into your diet, Nourishing Vegan Every Day makes veganism approachable, simple to understand, and delectable. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some cooking to do.

Book Review: Silently by Talya Blaine

Title: Silently (Transformation Series Book 1)

Author: Talya Blaine
Genre: Erotica - Romance - Women's Fiction
Publisher: Talya Blaine Books - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: December 6, 2022
Read: November 27, 2022
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Her needs, his limits. White-hot chemistry and anguished desire. The promises and costs of a shared future 

Award-winning novelist Quinn Layborn lost her muse the day her husband died. Still mourning more than a year on, the last thing she wants is a second chance. At writing or romance. 

Tonight, as dinner guests gossip in her breezy beach house—her agent's well-meaning intervention—she arms herself with a full glass of red wine: Don't come close. 

Until a raw and undeniable craving shatters her isolation. 

Cable network travel-show host Jonathan Jaines still struggles with the terrible mistake that ruined his marriage. Tonight, he watches Quinn move among the guests like a ghost. His heart aches for her. The vivacious woman he knew from the movie set a few years ago? Gone, replaced with a grieving widow. 

When she stuns him with the words she whispers in his ear, he cannot—can not—say no. 

One brazen move. Two simple rules. 

From an eastern Long Island hamlet to a posh Manhattan dungeon, Quinn and Jonathan push boundaries: between pleasure and pain, control and surrender, trust and forgiveness. But as feelings and the risk of heartbreak grow, as their pasts and potential future collide, just how far will they go? 

Fast-paced and intense, Silently is a story about devastating loss, primal need, and the unexpected bonds that help us heal. 

Told in dual points of view, the story features a beta hero and characters over 40, mature themes, past cheating, strong language, and super-steamy bedroom scenes. 

• Alternating hero-heroine points of view 
• Main characters in their 40s 
• High emotional intensity, low melodrama 
• Super-steamy first in series 

Silently launches the Transformation Series. The books should be read in order. 

Review:  Silently by Talya Blaine is billed as "Fast-paced and intense, Silently is a story about devastating loss, primal need, and the unexpected bonds that help us heal." I found it to be none of these things. Yes, it's a quick read at only 161 pages, but the only time it becomes "fast-paced" is when Quinn, the main female character, has a very brief encounter with an unsavory character outside of a private club. 

While the subject of losing a spouse can indeed be a heart-wrenching and devastating loss, Quinn comes across as more whiny than someone caught in the throes of devastating depression. As for the primal need, I didn't see it because I felt no connection with Quinn, Jonathan (main male character), or any other character in the story. 

Yes, I understand Silently has been classified as erotica as well as romance and/or women's fiction. However, I feel that it doesn't live up to the standards of other books in these same genres. In order for a book to be considered a romance, there must be some, actual, romance. There is none between Quinn and Jonathan. No flirting. No real attraction. No tension. Their "relationship" consists of so-called "mind-blowing sex." Sorry, but I've read more intensely sexual encounters in young adult fiction that didn't even include intercourse. The characters are two-dimensional, have no chemistry, and there is no plot in the book to help drive the story or the character toward and/or away from one another.

Silently is the first installment in a new series; however, after reading this one, I won't be continuing the series.

Book Review: The Witch's Spellbook for Beginners by Sarah Bartlett

 

Title: The Witch's Spellbook for Beginners

Author: Sarah Bartlett
Genre: Witchcraft - Wicca - Spells
Publisher: New Shoe Press - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: October 11, 2022
Read: November 14, 2022
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Manifest your dreams with easy-to-follow spells that align with the cycles of nature and the universe. 

Magic can change your life and help you manifest your best self. Anyone with the curiosity and willingness can connect to the power of the natural and supernatural and to blend ancient practices in a modern context. Adapted from Sarah Bartlett’s The Witch’s Spellbook, this guide gives new and aspiring witches a simple path to the art of practical magic and the empowerment of magic spells. 

Following an introduction to the basics of witchcraft, The Witch’s Spellbook for Beginners holds an abundance of spells organized by concern—including your self, change, wishes, love, home and family, career, money, and protection. Whether you are looking to channel spirit guides and those who have passed over, need a protection amulet for you or a loved one, or manifest a new direction that aligns with your life’s desires, this spellbook will empower and inform your budding craft as a witch. Harness the power of the astrological elements, explore the lunar cycles and how they can enhance your magic, and embrace the seasons to amplify your spells and divination work. 

The spells include: 

*Find Your Life Direction 
*Restore Holistic Health 
*Make a Decision 
*Manifest an Aspiration 
*Ignite Desire 
*Get Over a Breakup 
*Change Careers 
*Open the Door to Prosperity 
*Banish Negativity 

Plan your spellwork by date, season, and lunar phase, and identify spells that can be used any time, using the calendar index of spells at the back of the book. 

Start your journey into witchcraft with purposeful and practical spells for every day and every event.

Review: Spellbooks are among the hardest to review because everyone comes to spells and witchcraft (or Wicca) via their own unique path and therefore, each individual has their own experiences that can potentially bias their opinion. Personally, I'm a Wiccan Witch with over thirty years of experience as both a solitary practitioner and in working with groups/covens. I've been trained in different traditions and for the most part, I prefer to work as a solitary. This being said, I understand the desire anyone may have to learn spells and how to use them.

The Witch's Spellbook for Beginners is certainly a good resource for anyone who is just starting. However, I would caution such a person to not jump blindly into spell work. Bartlett does take time in the introductory pages of the book to very briefly cover the history of spells and magic use, magical tools and tips, and to be sure the chosen spells or rituals are being performed for the correct reasons. While I appreciate that Bartlett covers the Threefold Law (again, very briefly) and the fact that spells are not a hundred precent effective nor are they a one-size-fits-all cure, I do believe the author could have spent more time discussing the issue of "karmic backdraft" if a spell is done either for the incorrect reason (such as wanting to cause harm to another) or with the incorrect intent (such as a desire to have a specific person fall in love with the caster). Let me be clear: Spells are not harmless fun. Spells are part of a larger magical system that incorporates many different factors and must be respected. I'm not saying that Bartlett is disrespectful, far from it, but again, I believe more could be said in the introductory pages of the book to caution readers to be certain their motives are correct before attempting any of the spells listed here.

As for the actual spells and rituals contained in the book, they're all fairly simple and include helpful information such as the best time and/or day(s) to perform them to achieve maximum benefit. The writing is clear and easily understood, and the graphics are crisp. Each spell has a handy materials list so items can be gathered ahead of time. The format is simple and easily followed, even if the ritual or spell requires multiple days to complete.

Overall, The Witch's Spellbook for Beginners is a good introductory book, but for those looking for more in-depth knowledge or a better understanding of Witchcraft (or Wicca) as a spiritual path, this may not be the best starting point.

Book Review: The Beginner's Guide to Spirit Animals by Dawn Baumann Brunke

 

Title: The Beginner's Guide to Spirit Animals

Author: Dawn Baumann Brunke
Genre: Spirituality - Spirit Animals - Shamanism
Publisher: New Shoe Press - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: October 11, 2022
Read: November 12, 2022
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Discover your spirit animals and embrace the wisdom all around you 

Spirit animals provide guidance and wisdom, and can help you to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We all have one or more spirit guides—the key is to learn how to communicate with them. Adapted from Key to Spirit Animals by Dawn Braumann Brunke, Beginner’s Guide to Spirit Animals provides an overview of animal guides and includes interactive exercises that allow you to attune to animal wisdom and form a meaningful relationship with your spirit animals. 

Perfect for beginners, this book assumes no prior experience with shamanistic communication and provides a basic but detailed overview of all the common spirit animals, what they symbolize, and what a particular spirit animal tells you about yourself. Activity-based lessons and exercises help you discover and understand how to approach and communicate with your personal animal spirit guides. 

Beginner’s Guide to Spirit Animals features: 

*Exercises for discovering and attuning to your spirit animals—Learn to engage your spirit animals consciously through meditations and dreams, and fine-tune your observational skills to learn to interpret the subtleties of what animal encounters mean. 

*Reference entries for over 100 different spirit animals—Discover the power and spiritual significance of a multitude of individual animals, birds, insects, and reptiles through concise descriptions of each animal’s expertise along with questions, suggestions, and recommendations to benefit their teachings. 

*Practical ways to deepen your spirit animal relationships—Explore how to share consciousness to experience reality from an animal’s perspective, integrate animal teachings into everyday life, share your experiences, and give back to life in heartfelt ways. 

Beginner’s Guide to Spirit Animals also provides techniques for recognizing and interpreting an abundance of signs and omens from nature that you might not otherwise take notice of. 

Open your mind to the inherent wisdom of the animal world by following the guidance in this truly simple guide for beginners.

Review: The Beginner's Guide to Spirit Animals the one of the best introductory books I've read on the subject of working with animal spirit guides. Dawn Baumann Brunke has an easy style of writing that's like having a conversation with a wise friend or mentor. The book is filled with great information on how to connect with animal guides and incorporate them into daily life. 

The book starts with basic information on shamanism and connecting with animal guides. Exercises and meditations make it easy to understand and navigate these unique spiritual paths. Example encounters and interpretations are used to offer a deeper appreciation for how animals come into our lives to help and guide us, whether their presence is short term or forever. One aspect of animals guides I've rarely seen addressed in other books is that of Shadow Animals, those guides who come to us to show the not-so-pretty side of ourselves and how we may improve upon it. Personally, I'm happy to see this topic addressed as I feel it's one that is important, especially for beginners, to understand that spirit animals are as dynamic and multifaceted as their human counterparts.

The Beginner's Guide to Spirit Animals goes beyond some other books in that is offers information not only on the animals themselves but on other aspects such as color, number, location, postures and actions, and how not every animal will mean the same thing to every person. The book devotes an entire chapter to the spirit animals and their teachings under different categories likes large and small mammals, birds, insects and arachnids, and finally, reptiles and water animals. This makes for easy referencing so the reader isn't thumbing through pages of lions, tigers, and bears (oh, my!) to find information on the musical cricket or the humble frog. The book ends with how to integrate spirit animals into daily life. Again, samples interpretations are provided as well as suggestions for deepening our connection with our animal guides.

Overall, The Beginner's Guide to Spirit Animals is a perfect fit for anyone looking to discover their animal guide or wishes to deepen their connection with already established guides. 

Book Review: Tarot for Beginners by Ann Crane

Title: Tarot for Beginners

Author: Ann Crane
Genre: Spirituality - Divination - Tarot
Publisher: New Shoe Press - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: October 11, 2022
Read: November 9-11, 2022
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Unlock your own innate psychic potential with this accessible tarot reference 

This is your step-by-step guide to learning to read and interpret this mystical deck of seventy-eight cards. Tarot for Beginners explains the mystery and power of tarot through easy-to-understand text and simple, interactive lessons and exercises. Learn the symbolic mirror of opportunity that tarot provides to help you to make crucial decisions, confirm your true desires for the future, and enhance self-understanding. 

Tarot for Beginners will help you build your skills and learn all there is to know about reading the tarot without the complication and confusion that burdens more advanced books on the subject. You will be successfully channeling the messages offered in the tarot almost immediately. This essential reference features: 

*Tarot basics—Perfect for the absolute beginner, learn the history of tarot, what deck to choose, how to care for your deck, the significance of card-selection order and card positions, and how to access and learn to trust your intuition. 

*Paths to connect with the meanings of the cards—The book includes a survey of the meanings and example interpretations of every card of the major and minor arcana accompanied by exercises for connecting with their individual energies. 

*Tips for building confidence—Get acquainted with a variety of different spreads, learning from example interpretations, and build your intuitive power culled from the cards for your growth and self-awareness. 

Build your confidence quickly as you learn to harness the psychic power of the tarot deck, and soon you will begin to see what you couldn’t before. This new power will strengthen your decision-making at work and with money, relationships, family, and your own path to happiness.

Review: I love tarot cards almost as much as I love crystals and gemstones. At last count, I've collected somewhere between 20 and 25 tarot decks, and each has its own unique art, suggested layouts, and suggested interpretations for cards. However, to paraphrase a statement by Crane in Tarot for Beginners, the tarot is based on archetypes and symbology that speak to a universal language so regardless of the deck, anyone can learn to understand this language through practice. Tarot for Beginners is a great place for those just starting to learn the tarot as well as seasoned users.

Crane breaks the book down into four primary sections: The Basics, The Major Arcana, The Minor Arcana, and Interpreting Spreads. The first sections covers precisely what it states--the basics. Crane begins with a brief history of the tarot and then moves into how to choose the deck that is right for you, caring for your deck, the deck's structure, and finally, using the cards. Exercises, affirmations, and rituals are sprinkled throughout to help you in choosing, maintaining, and becoming familiar with the deck so you aren't always relying on the suggested interpretations provided by deck creators. These also build confidence in the user's abilities and are a great way for someone new to divination with the tarot to learn to trust their intuition. 

The next two sections cover the Major and Minor Arcana with exercises, rituals, and suggested interpretations for each card. I really like that Crane takes the time to address the Major and Minor separately and then further breaks the information down to individual cards all the while encouraging the reader to follow their own intuition for interpretations. There are many books on the tarot and all provide slightly different approaches and suggested ways of finding meaning within the cards. The fact that Crane states multiple times that the user shouldn't simply rely on suggested interpretations from a deck's creator but should develop their own approach and intuition is refreshing. 

The final section offers several different spreads that range from a simple three-card daily draw to a nine-card complex reading. Each spread has its own benefits, but when presenting each, Crane offers an explanation of the cards' positions and an example reading. I'm always searching for new spreads to try and found a couple I hadn't tried here so I can't wait to but them to use. 

Overall, Tarot for Beginners is a perfect book for anyone looking to start working with tarot cards or a seasoned reader who may be looking for ways to deepen their connection to tarot. Crane's easy writing style and conversational tone make for a quick read. This is one book that's found a permanent place on my shelf.

Book Review: The Beginner's Guide to Crystal Healing by Ashley Leavy

Title: The Beginner's Guide to Crystal Healing

Author: Ashley Leavy
Genre: Spirituality - Energy Healing - Crystals
Publisher: New Shoe Press - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: October 11, 2022
Read: November 9, 2022
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Discover 100 of the most empowering crystals for promoting spiritual balance, protection, and healing. 

The Beginner’s Guide to Crystal Healing, adapted from Ashley Leavy’s Crystals for Energy Healing, offers the perfect amount of information for the budding crystal enthusiast, including a range of crystals and their natural attributes, legendary powers, and holistic benefits along with information on each crystal’s specific energy and how the channel it for protection and healing. 

This essential guide features beautiful photography of every stone for clear identification as well as charts and illustrations detailing the basics of crystals for chakras, energy, and psychic healing. You will gain an essential understanding of crystals and how to use them, and help finding the right crystals for your own needs, as you explore: 

*Crystal basics, including what they are, how they work, and some of the common ways to use them 

*How to choose, cleanse, and dedicate your crystals 

*How to incorporate crystal healing into your daily routine, including affirmations, chakra balancing, crystal grids, and meditations 

*A crystal directory divided into three sections by purpose (emotional healing, spiritual healing and guidance, and shielding and protection) that helps you select the right crystals for each situation and use them effectively 

Protect your energy-body, change your mindset, and balance your emotions with this easy-to-use crystal guide.

Review: First, let me begin by saying I love crystals and stones. I have them placed all over my house, and every year, my husband and I travel to a gem & mineral show that's held around the same time as my birthday so I can add to my collection. So when I say I've read a lot of books on crystals and how they can be used for healing, wellness, and magic, I mean I've truly read a lot of books. 

Now, with that said, I can honestly tell you that Leavy's The Beginner's Guide to Crystal Healing is one of the best I've come across in recent years. The book is written in a plain manner that is both engaging and informative. Leavy takes the time in the beginning of the book to explain what crystals are, how they naturally form, how they've been used over time for everything from healing to magic to simple decor. 

The book is divided into three main sections dealing with the basics, crystal healing, and a crystal sourcebook that's further broken down into three subsections dealing with crystals for emotional healing, crystals for spiritual healing, and crystals for shielding and protection. I really like this layout for the sourcebook because while most books list stone and crystals in alphabetical order like an encyclopedia it can often been hard to find the right information in a hurry. If you're an energy worker, such as a Reiki practitioner or empath, then you know there are times when you need critical information at your fingertips. Although the sourcebook provided here is not exhaustive, it does cover many of the most commonly used crystals used in healing.

In addition to an easily searched sourcebook, "The Basics" of crystals are discussed with topics such as the history of crystal healing, ways of using healing crystals, sensing energies and selecting crystals, as well as how to properly cleanse and maintain your crystals. I especially like Leavy's suggestion to begin a crystal healing journal. This is a fabulous idea for someone who is just starting out because it allows you to see how your relationship with crystals grows over time, what works for you, what doesn't work, and how you're progressing. Leavy also addresses shapes and colors for crystals and how these can affect the energy. This isn't a topic I've personally seen covered in too many books and found it to be a welcomed addition here.

The section for crystal healing includes topics on how to get started, incorporating crystals into your personal and sacred spaces, and combining crystals with positive affirmations as well as exercises for including crystals in meditation. The exercises are simple and yet so effective for helping to open the senses to working with crystal energies. Again, this is an often overlooked topic in some books and an overly complicated one in others. I appreciate Leavy's deft touch at balancing between information, effectiveness, and ease. 

Overall, The Beginner's Guide to Crystal Healing is a great source book for anyone who is interested in learning the basics of crystal healing. Even seasoned energy workers will find helpful information and exercises to enhance their relationship with crystals. 

Book Review: Long Live the Pumpkin Queen by Shea Ernshaw

Title: Long Live the Pumpkin Queen

Author: Shea Ernshaw
Genre: YA Fantasy
Publisher: Disney Press - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: August 2, 2022
Read: October 23 - November 4, 2022
Disclaimer: I purchased a copy of this book from Amazon. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Jack and Sally are "truly meant to be" ... or are they? 

Sally Skellington is the official, newly-minted Pumpkin Queen after a whirlwind courtship with her true love, Jack, who Sally adores with every inch of her fabric seams-- if only she could say the same for her new role as Queen of Halloween Town. Cast into the spotlight and tasked with all sorts of queenly duties, Sally can't help but wonder if all she's done is trade her captivity under Dr. Finkelstein for a different cage. But when Sally and Zero accidentally uncover a long-hidden doorway to an ancient realm called Dream Town, she'll unknowingly set into motion a chain of sinister events that put her future as Pumpkin Queen, and the future of Halloween Town itself, into jeopardy. Can Sally discover what it means to be true to herself and save the town she's learned to call home, or will her future turn into her worst... well, nightmare?

Review: I'm a huge fan of Tim Burton's classic The Nightmare Before Christmas and have always loved the relationship between Sally, the rag doll, and Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King. So I was incredibly excited when I learned there was to a book exploring their relationship and the events after that fateful year when Jack tried to take over Christmas with disastrous results.

Long Live the Pumpkin Queen is a slow building story. It begins with Jack and Sally's wedding and then follows the efforts of the denizens of Halloween Town to make their new queen into...well, their idea of a queen. Naturally, Sally isn't sure about her new role since she's only ever been an unwilling "daughter" to Dr. Finkelstein before she and Jack found one another. Sally looks for a way to escape the demands of being the newly-crowned Pumpkin Queen, but inadvertently sets off a chain of events that threatens Halloween Town, the other holiday realms, and even the Human World when she finds a passage into the mysterious and unknown realm of Dream Town.

I love the expansion of the holiday worlds and the new characters introduced in this book. However, I had some issues with Sally. At the end of The Nightmare Before Christmas, it seemed as though she had grown as a character and found an inner strength she didn't know she had when she tried to stop Jack from entering the Human World to take over Christmas and then attempting a solo rescue of Sandy Claws from Oogie Boogie. After these heroic actions, she seemed a great fit for Jack and as the future Pumpkin Queen. However, that isn't the Sally presented at the beginning of Long Live the Pumpkin Queen. 

Sally seems to have reverted to her more withdrawn self in the beginning of the book. While it's easy to understand she'd have some trepidation regarding her new role as co-ruler of Halloween Town, she comes across as...for lack of a better word, whiny. Yes, she does grow throughout the story and once again comes out as a strong character at the end, but I wanted to see that strong Sally from the end of The Nightmare Before Christmas at the beginning and then see her become even stronger. Sadly, that's now how the author chose to write her character.

Overall, Long Live the Pumpkin Queen is an enjoyable read and is a welcomed addition to Tim Burton's world of The Nightmare Before Christmas. I hope more books will come that continues to expand the holiday worlds and the legend of the Pumpkin King and Queen.

Book Review: Into the Well by Bobbie R. Byrd

 

Title: Into the Well (Warlock Chronicles, Book 2)

Author: Bobbie R. Byrd
Genre: Science Fiction with Fantasy Elements
Publisher: Dragoncrest Publishing, LLC - Copyright 2021
Publication Date: September 8, 2021
Read: October 23-29, 2022
Disclaimer: I purchased a copy of this book from Amazon. All opinions are my own.

Trigger Warning: This book contains references to sexual assault, violence, and slavery.

Synopsis from Publisher: The Well is forbidden space. Dangerous, deadly, unpredictable, unforgiving. 

A forgotten planet. Dark secrets buried for millennia in dark magic. 

Not for much longer... 

INTO the WELL continues the treacherous journey of Bryanna D'Isaac, the warlock known as Lady Silver, and Admiral Devon Bastion deep into the Well in search of the lost homeworld of their ancestors. Convoluted space-time, dimensional rifts, and festering conflict brought the Cataclysm that took humans and warlocks to the brink of extinction millennia ago. 

History is about to repeat itself.

Review: Into the Well by Bobbie R. Byrd has been sitting on my To-Be-Read shelf for over a year. Not because I had no interest in continuing the story of Bryanna and Devon from the first Warlock Chronicles installment, Lady Silver, but because as often happens with readers/reviewers, I was distracted by other books. Some good. Some not so good. Some that made me question my life choices. And some that were life changing. Into the Well falls solidly in the "Very good" category.

As with the first book, there are some issues with minor typos, formatting (at least in the paperback copy I read--some of the pages had faded print that made reading a little challenging), and truly hardcore science fiction fans will find some of the science/engineering parlance a bit jarring. (Sticklers for science fiction grounded in science realism, even if theoretical, may want to skip certain bits or read them with a grain of salt.) The fantasy element dealing with the Warlocks and their magic is solid, however. The budding romance between Bryanna and Devon is in full swing, and the android T'Laan steals the scene more than once throughout the book. Overall, Into the Well is a nearly perfect compliment to Lady Silver.

While the ending of the book suggests there will be at least one more installment in the series, I've found no mention of the title or an estimated date of publication. I hope Byrd continues The Warlock Chronicles and continues expanding the unique worlds she has created.

Book Review: The Tome of Syyx by Stavros Saristavros

Title: The Tome of Syyx (The Fateful Force Series, Book 1)

Author: Stavros Saristavros
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Self-published - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: April 1, 2022
Read: Sept. 13-Oct. 19, 2022
Disclaimer: Author requested a review and sent a free paperback copy. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Ancient evils stir. Deals must be brokered. But who can be trusted?  

On the fringes of civilization, the town of Sanctuary embarks on a mission to legitimize its existence and that of its monstrous inhabitants. 

Under the Leadership of its Mysterious Lord, four young adventurers set out from the town on a dangerous mission into the Wild Moor. 

But they discover that armies of orcs and hobgoblins are far from the only threats to the Free Cities of the frontier. Ancient evils stir, dragons are rumored to once again fly, and an imprisoned god returns to plague the world. 

Unlikely alliances must be forged and rivalries put aside. But not all Friends are what they seem…

Review: Fantasy is my first love among all genres. From childhood, I've loved stories of valiant heroes, epic evilness, and fantastical lands populated by denizens who may or may not be human. Throw in a dragon (or two) and an ancient death god, and you've got The Tome of Syyx by debut author Stavros Saristavros. You've also go the beginnings of one helluva a great
series.

(One item I'd like to mention before continuing with my review, Saristavros gives thanks in his Acknowledgements to a few people, including his wife, for providing time and inspiration for the book through Dungeons and Dragons campaigns. I'm a huge D&D fan and have been playing since I was ten. I can definitely see the D&D-inpsired elements in The Tome of Syyx, and I love them! Yes, I totally geeked out over the D&D elements. And, yes, the fact that the book arrived signed and with an inscription only made me geek out even harder. What can I say? I'm a dork. Now, on with the review...)

The Tome of Syyx opens with an epic battle, and Saristavros's writing paints a clear picture of the events to the point I could smell the smoke from the fires, hears the battle cries of the combatants, and taste the acridness of....well, I probably shouldn't mention that because potential spoilers. Let's just say, I was completely in the moment while reading the prologue.

The writing continued to paint vivd pictures throughout the book. Never did I feel as though I was a reader scanning words on a page. I felt as though I was in the scene with the characters, taking part in battles, sharing drinks in taverns, celebrating victories, and commiserating losses. Multiple points of view give depth to the story and keeps the reader on their mental toes wondering who can be trusted, how will the story end, and most importantly, when will book two be released because by the end of The Tome of Syyx you'll be so invested in the characters and world you'll want to keep reading and reading and reading and... You get the idea.

The Tome of Syyx is an emotional rollercoaster interspersed with high-stakes battles, intrigue, and a cast of lovable characters. I can't wait to see what the next installment will bring.

Book Review: The Prisoner of Fear by Chad Miller

Title: The Prisoner of Fear (Book 1 Doyle and Braham Series)

Author: Chad Miller
Genre: Horror - Gothic Fiction
Publisher: Hear Our Voice LLC - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: October 1, 2022
Read: Oct. 8-11, 2022
Disclaimer: Author requested a review and sent a free paperback copy. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher:  It is 1889 in Philadelphia, and detective John Doyle is restless. Along with his miserable partner, Thomas Braham, Doyle pursues mysteries, strange sightings, and other obscurities tossed aside and disregarded by the police. For years, Doyle has taken on these cases in the hopes of discovering something supernatural - something that could upend and dispute his long-standing, debilitating fear that immortal souls do not exist. 

Doyle's search for the supernatural remains unsuccessful until he receives a strange letter from an old doctor friend regarding a young woman with a mysterious and rather disturbing illness. When the doctor goes missing in the same town that this young woman resides in, Doyle and Braham decide to take on the case and search for clues regarding their missing friend. In doing so, they discover that there is no longer any suffering young woman, but a dangerous abomination whose origin cannot be explained by science nor modern medicine. 

Meanwhile, an unnamed victim has been kidnapped. Trapped in a cell with nothing but a journal to document their experiences, this mysterious Prisoner must undergo terrifying scientific experiments while trying not to lose all hope and sanity.

Review: Anyone who knows me know I'm a huge fan of Gothic literature and its contemporary descendent, horror. My friends (and family) have heard me expound upon the virtues of dark fiction over the years. If it's dark, disturbing, psychologically scarring, and even the tiniest bit creepy, I'm all over it like flies on a corpse. 

So, dearest reader, you can imagine my excitement when I was offered a review copy of Chad Miller's The Prisoner of Fear. I waited with antici...............pation for it to arrive. When it finally landed on my doorstep, I was giddy, and yet I was in the midst of reading another book for review so I set Miller's book aside. Still, the cover haunted me. The promise of a Sherlockian-style mystery combined with the Gothic epistolary-based chills of Bram Stoker and Mary Shelley seduced me like a siren's call. For a week, I held firm and didn't give into that call. However, curiosity soon gave way to desire and I had no choice but to dive into those dark waters, whether for good or ill.

Oh, dearest reader, why did I wait to satisify my dark urges? Why, oh why, did I torment myself with fleeting glances at that haunting cover? Once I read the opening line, my resolve crumbled, and I came undone. Although I continued to read the other book in line for review during the day, I secretly stole precious hours each night to navigate the twists and turns and delightfully view the dark images Miller skillfully paints on the pages of The Prisoner of Fear. Yes, I lost hours of sleep, but what I gained is so much more valuable: a new "must-read" author. 

At the heart of Miller's work is a mystery that seems simple enough to solve. However, that simplicity is deceptive. I've admitted in other blogs that I'm often able to figure out the Who in most WhoDoneIt book, but Miller kept me guessing to the end, and then had the nerve to end the book with a cliffhanger. (AND the sequel isn't scheduled to be released until next year? WTF? Cue the hellish wailing and gnashing of teeth... *deep breath* It's fine. I'm calm. I can wait.) The plot twists were subtle and yet my mind was continually blown. Although I could tell a twist was coming soon the shapes those twists took were unexpected and shot the story into a completely different direction than I'd predicted. 

It wasn't until I'd finished reading the book that I realized the title didn't actually refer to a single character: The reader is The Prisoner of Fear, and like any good horror author, Chad Miller is the puppet master gleefully pulling strings. I, for one, will happily take up the roll of marionette. 

But....Miller, if you're reading this review, I have two words for you: Write. Faster.

Book Review: Isolated Futures (Omnibus) by Koen Martens

 

Title: Isolated Futures (Omnibus)

Author: Koen Martens
Genre: Science Fiction - Dystopian Futures
Publisher: Self-published - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: March 18, 2022
Read: September 20-26, 2022
Disclaimer: Author requested a review and sent a free paperback copy. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: If you’re a fan of thought-provoking sci-fi cyberpunk technothrillers like The Passengers and Black Mirror, then Koen Martens’ sci-fi anthology is your perfect next read! 

Story 1 - Forced to be Free: Sam, a young hacker with anger management issues, has joined

a defense initiative against the advancing Russian army set to occupy Europe. When he discovers his boss is working undercover for the enemy, he must thwart his boss and prevent the destruction of the EU’s drone defense network before it’s too late. 

Story 2 - Murder, Plain and Simple: Dr. Jennifer Mendoza is a ship physician on the interstellar luxury cruiser Christopher. When a prominent and wealthy passenger is murdered, she is called to investigate the crime. Can she identify the killer before more people lose their lives? 

Story 3 - Cima Peak: Juan, a naive adolescent growing up in a post-apocalyptic world, embarks on a dangerous excursion that strands him and his friend far from his home. Can they make it back to their base before it’s too late to save the city from incoming slavers? 

Story 4 - Negative Reinforcement: Limei is an independent app developer on an isolated space station. She is utterly dependent on and enamored with her personal AI assistant. When she learns The Algorithm is planning to destroy human life on her ship, she must find a way to take it down before her crew perishes. 

Story 5 - Eddy: Digital forensics expert Lagan has been wrongly convicted of murder, but no one is willing to believe that he witnessed his own doppelgänger commit the crime. When he learns that the doppelgänger was one of many beings created to replace humans with AI-run clones, he must prove his innocence and take down the scheme before more people’s lives are ruined. 

Story 6 - DingDong by Zhumee: When Martin’s new Zhumee smart doorbell accidentally causes his neighbor’s wrongful arrest, he must set out on a quest to prove her innocence. Little does he know, Zhumee has far more control over the justice system than anyone imagined. Can he race against the clock to take down this corrupt system?

Review: Six novellas. A total of 476 pages. Six days to read. Challenge accepted. 

Wow. Where do I start? Koen Martens' omnibus of science fiction dystopian futures offers six different and yet relatable and oddly relevant stories, each one more terrifyingly plausible than the last. I've spent the last three days since finishing Isolated Futures trying to figure out how I would describe the utter fascination, chills, and love I felt reading these novellas and the best I can do is simply.... Wow.

Each story deals with its own future--everything from the near future of Forced to Be Free to the distant future where Earth is merely an afterthought for most humans in Negative Reinforcement--and each delivers a gut punch when the reader realizes just how plausible each future is. 

Forced to Be Free has great pacing and a spy-thriller vibe with questionable characters, murky motives, and an all-too-believable invasion scenario that brings the headlines of today into very sharp focus. 

Murder, Plain and Simple is anything but plain and simple. I loved the distant future world building showcased in this story while the mystery reminded me of Agatha Christie. There's a delicate balance between the clues left for the reader and the final reveal that kept me guessing until the end. (And, for the record, I can usually figure out the Who in Whodunnits fairly quickly.)

Cima Peak has a dystopian survivor scenario, and I'll be honest, it wasn't my favorite story. I thought the tension between the two main characters could be a little tighter and more focused, especially given the high stakes set by the author. Also, I thought the "full circle" events wrapped up a bit too neatly given the story's after-the-fall-of-civilization setting, but overall, it was still a fun read.

Negative Reinforcement is a cautionary tale for the over-dependence on technology our world is already facing. Again, this wasn't my favorite story, mainly because it reminded me of The Matrix in many ways. But, I did like the arc for the main character. It was plausible, and I enjoyed the thought-provoking nature of the plot.

Eddy is a fast-paced collision between James Bond and Invasion of the Bodysnatchers, and I liked it! A lot. Science goes awry and the stakes are high for the protagonist...or is he the antagonist....could he be both? The story has a film-like quality I can easily see translating to the big--or small--screen. This is definitely my second favorite novella in the omnibus.

DingDong by Zhumee is, hands-down, my favorite and not just because its the only story in the bunch to feature a cat! (But, the cat is a delightful bonus.) Another cautionary tale that begs the reader to think about society's reliance on technology, and the vast network of devices we willingly tap into on a daily basis in the name of "security." 

Overall, Isolated Futures is an omnibus well worth reading if you're a lover of dystopian fiction, science fiction, techno thrillers, or just reading in general. Koen Martens states in the preface that he reconnected with his love of writing during the pandemic. I certainly hope he continues to love writing for many years to come because I'm a fan now, and I expect to see a lot more from Martens in the, hopefully, not-so-distant future. 

Book Review: A Grave of Flowers by Priscylla Attler

 

Title: A Grave of Flowers

Author: Priscylla Attler
Genre: YA Fantasy with LGBTQIA+ elements
Publisher: Self-published - Copyright 2022
Publication Date: May 3, 2022
Read: July 6-September 11, 2022 -- Did Not Finish
Disclaimer: Author requested a review and sent a free paperback copy via Amazon. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: 16-year old Nulla has been discriminated against her entire life for her colorism - a genetic illness that gave her bright, colorful features. While her family once sheltered and isolated her for her own protection, this seclusion was not enough to protect her from her own unusual power, a power that is both dangerous and life-saving. 

Nulla’s friend, Ani, is slated to become the next Child of Dead, a role that is feared by many. Terrified of his fate, Ani decides to escape his home country, bringing Nulla, her twin brother,
and his best friend Zephr in tow. However, their escape plans are quickly turned upside down when Nulla is kidnapped and sold to a mad scientist performing human experiments on Colors and Ani is hunted down by Dianne - a previous Child of Death wanting to punish Ani for escaping his fate. As Nulla suffers at the hands of her cruel captor, can she learn to control her power in time to save herself?

Review: When I was initially contacted by a publicist asking if I'd be interested in reviewing debut author Priscylla Attler's A Grave of Flowers, the synopsis intrigued me. I love finding new writers, especially when the story sound compelling and offers a element that is often underrepresented in fantasy and science fiction such as BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ characters. (Full disclosure: I am neither of these, however, I am a very strong believer in equality for all regardless of skin color, sexual orientation, economic status, country of origin, religion, or any of the other myriad reasons humans find to generally be assholes to one another. My personal philosophy is "Be excellent to one another and party on, dudes." If only I could apply it to this book...) Naturally, I agreed and was sent a review copy by the author through Amazon in exchange for a honest review. 

I began reading with high hopes. The prologue definitely caught my attention. Yeah, there were a few small typos and punctuation matters, but I can easily overlook such things when the characters are engaging and the story is promising. Alas, what started with such promise quickly gave way to an overly idealistic view of what was billed as an "oppressive government," zero-zip-zilch-nada tension between supposedly contrary characters, no evidence of an actual plot anywhere on the page, and a painfully obvious lack of skilled writing and editing.

Any yet, despite all these negatives, I could--and still do--see a glimmer of potential in the overall story. The biggest problem I see with A Grave of Flowers is the dreaded "Friends and Family Review Syndrome." I fully understand wanting to share your writing with those closest to you. However, unless you have brutally honest friends and family--and I mean honest almost to the point of being labeled sociopathic--those friends and family should never be trusted to give proper, authentic feedback because once they are faced with the choice of either giving impartial and possibly negative evaluations of the writer's work and potentially crushing the writer's soul they will 99.999999% of the time opt for the non-soul-eviscerating "Yeah, it's great! I love it!" If a writer hears this and nothing else, assume your friends and family are all wearing flame retardant pants.

Writing is hard, and it doesn't happen in a vacuum. As I said, I really do see potential in the premise of A Grave of Flowers. Unfortunately, the writing doesn't live up to that potential. My suggestion to the author is to look into a basic fiction workshop. Most colleges and universities offer workshop classes either as part of a creative writing program, an English department elective, or as part of a community-enrichment program. These workshops offer exposure to a variety of genres and writing styles while also providing encouragement and honest feedback. If none of these options are available, find an online critique group. NaNoWriMo, for example, offers plenty of contacts both during November and year-round. The other option is to find a freelance/independent editor. Yes, an editor, or "book doctor," will expect payment anywhere from a few hundred to several thousands of dollars depending on how they charge (per hour, by word count, or by page count). Editors can cover everything from character development, plotting, and world-building to line edits with attention paid to spelling, punctuation, and grammar. It all depends on how much the author is willing to pay and how much work the story needs.

While A Grave of Flowers joins the handful of books I sadly must file in the "did not finish" category and therefore cannot be recommended for purchase at this time, I sincerely hope the author will look into resources to develop the story and polish their writing because I believe there's potential here.