Tag: Book Review Blog

Review: Once Upon A Time in Tel Aviv: A Bank Robber’s Story by Mike Mazursky

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Synopsis:

Exotic locale, fast money, nerves of steel and a torrid love affair. What else does a bank robber need?

Born in the former Soviet Union but raised in Brooklyn, New York, Mike grows up the black sheep of an educated, law-abiding Jewish family. Drawn to the criminal life he realizes that the risks of testing the American justice system are best left to someone else, so he moves to the land of his forefathers where things are a bit less draconian and the weather a lot more inviting…

After a brief stint in the IDF, Mike is living the expat life in Tel Aviv. Idolizing the legendary hold up men of yesteryear since his youth, he becomes a prolific bank robber in his own right. Operating for years under his gentleman bandit credo of non-violence and torn between his love for the beautiful Ortal and his lust for adventure, Mike knows he has to get out while he still has the chance…

Written almost entirely behind bars during his incarceration within the Israeli prison system, Once Upon A Time in Tel Aviv is both introspective, defiant, and at times, tongue in cheek, as Mike Mazursky takes us into the soul of a modern-day outlaw searching for meaning, easy money, bad press, and a good time before time runs out…

Favorite Lines:

“The way I saw it…recklessness was a different kind of freedom. And freedom…freedom is a different kind of love story.”

“A girl I was in the IDF with once told me that my refusal to learn Hebrew stemmed from my refusal to integrate into Israeli society or to society as a whole in general and was a clear indication that I was an anti-social criminal personality who should be kept as far away from the military as humanly possible. I told her that was a hell of a whole lot coming from a girl who only finished high school about thirteen months ago and that maybe she ought to get to know a guy before passing judgement on him like he was the frikkin anti-Christ.”

“The problem with certain people is… the more drinks they have, the more obnoxious they get.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Once Upon a Time in Tel Aviv  is a gripping and unapologetic journey into the mind of a modern outlaw. Written almost entirely during the author’s time behind bars, this book is listed as a fiction but I often times found myself curious if it was more of a memoir.  This story blurs the line between introspection and adrenaline-fueled adventure, giving readers an intimate look at a man who built his life on risk, charm, and the thrill of the heist.

Mazursky’s storytelling is raw and compelling, balancing humor, defiance, and a surprisingly philosophical edge. Born in the Soviet Union and raised in Brooklyn, Mike’s early life set the stage for a rebellious path that ultimately led him to Israel, where he became a prolific bank robber—operating under a strict code of non-violence. His adventures are cinematic, filled with high-stakes crimes, the intoxicating allure of fast money, and a passionate love affair that complicates his already precarious existence.

Beyond the action, what sets this book apart is its deeper exploration of freedom, morality, and the inevitability of consequence. Mazursky doesn’t just glorify his choices—he dissects them, offering readers a candid glimpse into the psychology of a man living on the edge. His writing is sharp, witty, and often laced with dark humor, making for an engaging read that’s equal parts crime thriller and philosophical reflection.

Summary:

For fans of true crime, outlaw stories, and fast-paced, no-holds-barred storytelling, Once Upon a Time in Tel Aviv is a must-read. It’s a bold and unforgettable tale of a man chasing adventure and identity, knowing that time is always running out. Happy reading!

Check out Once Upon A Time in Tel Aviv: A Bank Robber’s Story here!

 

Review: Blade of the Wanderer by Steven Raaymakers

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Synopsis:

The chronological short stories of Esterra Stake. Tractwalker. Mercenary. Exile.

When the stars fell, the world died.

Magic claimed Esterra’s arm when she was a child. For her curse, she was exiled into the weird, pockmarked world of Verpace. The magic eats away at her, twisting her bones and psyche to its own will, the curse spreading with each use.

Now an adult, she wanders the world as a tractwalker, making her living through hunting, mercenary work, and whatever opportunities arise. It is a dangerous life. Deranged cultists cry out to the red-dwarf sun, deformed beasts prowl in every shadow, creatures born from myth lurk in broken temples, and every night brings the threat of the lethal lichtvallen.

Yet some greater danger seems to lurk on the horizon, and there are whispers in the dark. Will Esterra survive, or will she succumb to the incessant call of the magic?

The first volume of stories in Scars of Magic, a post apocalyptic sword-and-sorcery series overflowing with horror, mystery, magic and action.

Favorite Lines:

“The universe shimmers with a terrible silence. A time of no song comes. I must admit, my soul feels relief at departing before it claims Verpace.”

“Struggling against one’s fate is the essential tragedy of humanity. Only through endless innovation and adaption can we ever hope to survive.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

I found Blade of the Wanderer to be a captivating entry into the post-apocalyptic sword-and-sorcery genre. The novel introduces readers to Verpace, a world fractured into distinct tracts, each with its own unique environment, culture, and perils. From bone-laden forests to icy ruins, each setting is richly detailed, immersing readers in a landscape teeming with both wonder and danger.

The protagonist, Esterra Stake, is a tractwalker—a nomadic mercenary navigating these treacherous tracts. Her journey is further complicated by her lichtridden right arm, a source of formidable power that comes at a significant personal cost. I found that this affliction only added depth to her character by highlighting her resilience and adaptability in a world where survival is never guaranteed.

Raaymakers’ storytelling shines in his meticulous world-building and the dynamic challenges Esterra faces. I thought that the world he created was utterly unique and creative. The narrative is structured as a series of interconnected short stories, each unveiling new facets of Verpace and its inhabitants. While this format offers a broad exploration of the world, some readers might find themselves missing out on some deeper character development and more sustained interactions with supporting characters.

Despite these minor reservations, I don’t think they took away from the overall story Raaymakers set out to tell. Blade of the Wanderer delivers a compelling adventure filled with mystery, magic, and action. The inclusion of illustrations by Reffelia and Daniel Hapi, along with a map crafted by the author only enhanced the reading experience by providing visual context to the vivid descriptions.

Summary:

Overall, I would recommend this book to those who appreciate immersive world-building and a strong, complex protagonist. It promises a journey through a world as perilous as it is intriguing, leaving readers eager to see where Esterra’s path leads next. Happy reading!

Check out Blade of the Wanderer here!

 

Monthly Features – January 2025

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Dear Pink by Michelle Angelle

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Do bears play polo? Can cats wear berets? Do happily ever afters exist? Often there are more questions than answers, and sometimes you find love on a bicycle.

Ever since Hannah caught her ex-boyfriend with another woman, she’s been stuck in a romance rut. When a hot guy in fancy bike gear corners her in the elevator, she lets him slip through her fingers, although his hard muscles and adorable grin never leave her thoughts.

Gabe is sick of plastic women who only see him as a piece of meat. Surprised by a funny woman in an elevator, he forgets to introduce himself and accidentally insults her instead. Convinced he’ll never see her again, he resigns himself to a life as a crazy cat man.

Will an unexpected bucket list change Hannah and Gabe’s life forever? Dear Pink is a romantic comedy where two lost souls collide with fate and find love in the most unlikely place.

Summary: If you like modern romances that are adorable with touches of humor this book would be for you. 

See the full review here: Dear Pink
Purchase here

 

 

Wicked by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Synopsis: Twenty-two year old Ivy Morgan isn’t your average college student. She, and others like her, know humans aren’t the only thing trolling the French Quarter for fun… and for food. Her duty to the Order is her life. After all, four years ago, she lost everything at the hands of the creatures she’d sworn to hunt, tearing her world and her heart apart.

Ren Owens is the last person Ivy expected to enter her rigidly controlled life. He’s six feet and three inches of temptation and swoon-inducing charm. With forest-green eyes and a smile that’s surely left a stream of broken hearts in its wake, he has an uncanny, almost unnatural ability to make her yearn for everything he has to offer. But letting him in is as dangerous as hunting the cold-blooded killers stalking the streets. Losing the boy she loved once before had nearly destroyed her, but the sparking tension that grows between them becomes impossible for Ivy to deny. Deep down, she wants… she needs more than what her duty demands of her, what her past has shaped for her.

But as Ivy grows closer to Ren, she realizes she’s not the only one carrying secrets that could shatter the frail bond between them. There’s something he’s not telling her, and one thing is for certain. She’s no longer sure what is more dangerous to her—the ancient beings threatening to take over the town or the man demanding to lay claim to her heart and her soul.

Summary: Wicked places us in a world where there is more than meets the eye and introduces us to the ship that is Ivy and Ren. I felt connections throughout the story in different ways, like how much Ivy likes variety in her cereal so much so that she has 12 boxes of cereal on hand at all times or like how despite having a job to support herself and a future seemingly laid out for her already, Ivy still strives to do more with her life; to be more.  The book takes you on an emotional roller coaster through the sad and the happy, through friendship and betrayal, uncertainty, and romance. I know it sounds cheesy and stereotypical, but I promise this book is definitely worth the read. All I can say is that I can’t wait to read the other two books in this series and that I will make no promises to not stay up until 4am to finish them.

See the full review here: Wicked
Purchase here

 

 

Review: Astronaut by Ali Rizvi

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Synopsis:

I dealt with mental health at many turning points in life and learned to mask my real-self at an early age but world wasn’t gentle enough for me to be accepted. I finally sought professional help and started treatment for Depression & some of its companions a few years ago. It has helped me to understand myself better, but not the cruel world.

The year 2024 made a mark in my journey with many surprises, and I decided to write again after many years.

This is a collection of poems from my recent & enduring pilgrimage to Depression & some other places.

Favorite Lines:

As always with poem collections, here are a few that I enjoyed the most:  Fate, Closer, and Autumn.

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Ali Rizvi’s Astronaut is a poignant collection of poems that delves into the raw and deeply personal experience of navigating depression and the often unkind world around us. Written after years of silence, this work is a powerful testament to the resilience of a soul grappling with mental health challenges and seeking understanding in a world that can feel isolating.

Rizvi’s poetry doesn’t shy away from confronting the complex and often dark realities of depression. Instead, it embraces vulnerability and turns it into art, offering readers a glimpse into the mind of someone battling their inner demons. The simplicity of the language used in the poems makes the emotions feel genuine and accessible, resonating deeply with anyone who has struggled with mental health or sought solace in their own creative expression.

For those who may not have personally experienced depression, Astronaut serves as an insightful exploration of the mindset of someone navigating mental health struggles. Rizvi’s willingness to lay bare his thoughts and emotions allows readers to develop empathy and a better understanding of the challenges faced by individuals dealing with depression and related disorders.

What stands out about Astronaut is its relatability. Rizvi’s words carry an authenticity that makes readers feel understood, as if he’s articulating emotions they’ve felt but couldn’t quite express themselves. The themes of alienation, self-discovery, and resilience are universal, making this book not just a collection of poems but a shared experience.

Summary:

Overall, Astronaut is not just a book of poems—it’s an emotional journey that invites readers to walk alongside Rizvi as he shares his battles and triumphs. Whether you’re seeking comfort in knowing you’re not alone in your struggles or looking to better understand the experiences of those who live with depression and/or other mental health disorders, this book is a compelling and heartfelt read.

Check out Astronaut here!

 

Review: Citizen Evil by M.A.S.

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Synopsis:

Darkness Personified!

Follow main character Damien and friends on their hilarious but treacherous journey through the supernatural dark web!

In order to save Rin, his high school crush, Damien makes a deal with the God of Darkness. In exchange for his protection, Damien must find a way to free this horrid evil from the confines of a book, which forewarns humanity’s end.

Favorite Lines:

Rather than highlighting a specific quote, I wanted to highlight a couple of my favorite chapters which were chapters 3 (My Confession) and 4 (Ranked Part-1).

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

If you have been following along with this blog, you will perhaps notice that this is the first manga/anime novel to be featured on Likely Story. As a lover of good stories and good art, why not combine the two?

Citizen Evil, written by M.A.S. with contributions from illustrators Apeng, Virand, Galihmsantoso, and Hieumayart, is a dark fantasy manga that embraces classic manga tropes while offering a fresh, English-language experience. For fans of Japanese-style storytelling or newcomers curious about the medium, this multi-volume series is both a homage and an innovation.

From the very first page, we are thrust into the chaotic world of Damien, a socially awkward teen whose obsession with his crush, Rin, leads him down a dangerous and paranormal path. The story wastes no time, offering minimal exposition but plenty of action. Damien’s decision to dabble with forces far beyond his understanding introduces a ripple effect of chaos, weaving in side plots that suggest a much larger, ominous conflict at play.

The narrative structure is bold, layering the main plot with threads of dark forces and cryptic lore early on. While the story can feel dense at times, this technique offers intriguing hints at the series’ broader worldbuilding, leaving readers eager to unravel its mysteries.

Citizen Evil adopts the traditional manga format, including its right-to-left reading orientation. The aesthetic choices—sharp panel designs, dynamic shading, and visually impactful scene transitions—enhance the authenticity. While it’s steeped in the dark fantasy genre, there’s an unmistakable originality to how M.A.S. builds his world, blending supernatural intrigue with a fast-paced narrative that hooks readers immediately.

I wanted to specifically touch on the the artwork in Citizen Evil, which was a standout feature to me; it elevated every moment with detail and emotion. Each scene is imbued with tonal shifts that complement the action or dialogue. From sharp, intense shading during battles to softer, more rounded lines in lighter, comedic moments, the illustrators’ ability to convey mood visually is remarkable.

Summary:

Overall, Citizen Evil Volume 1 is an ambitious and fast-paced introduction to what promises to be a thrilling series. Its blend of relatable characters, intricate worldbuilding, and polished artwork make it an excellent pick for fans of dark fantasy or manga enthusiasts. While it introduces a lot in a short span, the balance of action and intrigue ensures you’ll stay engaged.

Whether you’re a seasoned manga reader or new to the genre, this volume is an excellent entry point. With its cliffhanger ending and hints at a larger narrative yet to be uncovered, Citizen Evil will leave you eager for Volume 2.

You can check out Citizen Evil here!

 

Review: Beyond the Father by Opëshum

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Synopsis:

The first of 8 books that will give you pause and make you ponder…
“Beyond the Father” sets the scene for the 8-book Sci-Fi Epic “gods on Trial: The Series™,” delving into life’s determination to transcend all limitation.

A uniquely different world to explore…
Set on the planet Xżyber, citizens of the Sub-Median Region, imperfectly reborn into metal, oppress those who are organic. Elsewhere, in the Central Kingdom, religion supports royalty’s brutal domination of the lowest class.

Rife with mounting tension…
War over scarce resources is coming, revolution within each region is brewing, and none know of the eccentric god who created them. This being watches, has fascinating conversations with his often-wiser companion, occasionally learns, and rarely intervenes.

A struggle for survival and existence...
The many levels and threads of struggle distract nearly all from a far greater threat. Meanwhile, the young Prince Anglid’s vision quest into the unexplored Area X may ultimately change everything. However, just when you think you know the direction of the story, the author has yet another surprise.

Favorite Lines:

“One’s inheritance is not necessarily a gift.”

“Yet as an artist, it is not my place nor my cause to decide what beauty is – or is not…In portraiture, I believe it is only my place to make the truth eternal…but it is not my place to help others run from it. As a painter of portraits, I believe it is my duty to capture what is truly there.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Beyond the Father is an epic fantasy novel that masterfully intertwines political intrigue, spirituality, and complex character development. Set in the richly imagined world of Xżyber, the story delves into themes of power, class, and identity, offering readers a thought-provoking journey.

The narrative follows King Thio of the Central Kingdom, who maintains control over his subjects through stringent religious doctrines. In contrast, his son, Anglid, embarks on a vision quest that challenges his beliefs and principles, providing a compelling subplot that explores personal growth and rebellion. The dynamic between father and son adds depth to the storyline, highlighting the tension between tradition and change.

Opëshum’s world-building is both expansive and detailed, featuring a diverse cast that includes technologically enhanced beings, disillusioned soldiers, and interventionist deities. The interactions between the temperamental god Flexix and his companion offer philosophical insights and moments of levity, enriching the narrative. These dialogues are among the highlights of the book, providing readers with reflective pauses amidst the action.

The author’s prose is vivid, bringing to life the intricate settings and complex emotions of the characters. The pacing is well-balanced, maintaining suspense while allowing for character development. Notably, the plot takes unexpected turns, particularly in Anglid’s storyline, keeping readers engaged and eager to discover what happens next.

Summary:

Overall, Opëshum has crafted a narrative that is utterly unique. It not only entertains but also invites reflection on deeper societal and personal themes. I would recommend Beyond the Father to readers seeking a rich and immersive blend of fantasy/sci-fi. Happy reading!

Check out Beyond the Father here!

 

Review: Rage Against the Machine by H. Meadow Hopewell

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Synopsis:

Award-winning director, Roare Murdock, is approached by a private group of investigative journalists who invite her to spearhead a documentary. She agrees to join the project to expose the dark side of transhumanism. With the assignment comes grave danger to herself and those around her. And someone in her close circle of trusted associates is not what he seems. She wonders why God would choose a wayward follower like her to warn the masses of an imminent threat to humanity.

Amid the challenges and dangers of research and filming, Hunter Barraclough, Roare’s biological father, enters her life for the first time. When Roare reaches her breaking point, help comes from an unlikely source, Sloane McInerney, Roare’s bodyguard. Sloane has his own reasons to join forces with Roare to unmask a malevolent AI lab whose CEO plots to destroy human souls through AI and other-worldly technology. As she battles demonic forces, Roare uses fear and anger to her advantage. But how long will she last before she questions her own survival?

Favorite Lines:

“You can’t manipulate people who know how to think for themselves.”

“I figured now is the time to stop dancing around each other like fireflies and finally clear the air.”

“We both have war inside us. Sometimes it keeps us alive. Sometimes it threatens to destroy us.”

“Comfort is a luxury no one should take for granted.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Rage Against the Machine by H. Meadow Hopewell is a bold mix of Christian faith, futuristic science fiction, and emotional drama that dares to ask profound questions about technology, humanity, and spirituality. Set in a near-future world where artificial intelligence is weaponized by those with sinister agendas, the story follows Roare Murdock, an Oscar-winning filmmaker tasked with exposing these dangerous truths. What begins as a professional mission quickly turns personal when Roare discovers someone she trusts is AI-enhanced, forcing her to confront both ethical dilemmas and deep personal fears.

The book is layered with spiritual depth, bringing faith to the forefront in ways rarely seen in speculative fiction. Through vivid depictions of prayer, angelic intervention, and prophetic visions, Hopewell highlights the intersection of divine influence and human struggle. While these elements initially feel fantastical, they ultimately resonate with biblical promises, lending authenticity and a sense of timelessness to the story.

Roare’s journey is supported by a rich cast of characters, from her steadfast yet occasionally enigmatic husband to a fascinating prophetess and a friend whose AI enhancements complicate their relationship. Among these, Hunter Barraclough, an architect from Roare’s past, emerges as a standout. Deeply flawed but profoundly human, his arc of redemption and heartbreak brings emotional weight to the narrative.

The novel’s design elements—such as futuristic chapter titles and DNA-inspired scene breaks—are a visual delight, perfectly complementing the story’s themes. These creative touches, along with the compelling cover art, demonstrate a meticulous attention to detail that enhances the overall experience.

However, the writing style may divide readers. The dialogue often mirrors real-life conversations, complete with tangents and repetitions, which can slow the pace at times. Additionally, some characters’ reactions, particularly during the climactic moments, veer into melodrama, which might pull some readers out of the narrative.

Despite these minor setbacks, Rage Against the Machine succeeds in delivering a thought-provoking story that explores faith, technology, and human resilience in the face of moral and spiritual crises. The ending strikes a fine balance, wrapping up immediate conflicts while hinting at larger dangers yet to unfold, leaving readers eager for the next chapter in the series.

Summary:

Overall, I would say this book could be for fans of speculative fiction with a spiritual edge. Rage Against the Machine offers an engaging and imaginative take on humanity’s future – it’s a story that challenges readers to consider not only the role of technology in our lives but also the enduring power of faith in guiding us through uncertain times. Happy reading!

Check out Rage Against the Machine here!

 

Monthly Features – December 2024

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Navigating Yesterday by Anthony Dean

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Banner Dawson spends seventeen long years in cryosleep aboard the damaged Valkyrie-198 as it limps along towards the small void just beyond the orbit of Saturn. During those years, back on Earth…

Jack works with relentless determination to develop the skills and knowledge needed to rescue Laura from the cryogenic pod under the mountain….

Alexis rises through the ranks of the Independent Order of Valkyries…

Maestro seeks to help and then heal a king…

The leader of the Society authorizes increased activities in the Borderlands, and Ranger Stone is lost as a result…

Ranger Stone’s son Brian, the boy with one blue and one brown eye, comes of age and learns a family secret that places him at the center of a great conflict…

And Bucky the horse continues to chew on nothing.

At the end of Beyond the Lemon Tree Moon, Number One, Annabelle, and many from the Potato arrive in the Earth System. But what awaits them when they return to their ancestral home?

Find out in Navigating Yesterday.

Summary: Overall, this was another great addition to Dean’s The Voided Man series and I am excited to see where he takes it next. This book (and series) is for anyone who is interested in quirky and humorous science fiction, especially sci-fi that touches on space travel and what it means to be human. 

See the full review here: Navigating Yesterday
Purchase here

 

She Tames the Sea by E.M. Etheridge

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Men fear a woman on the sea. They say women bring about bad luck and anger from the gods who rule the waters. Estella Bohem fears being aboard Captain Eric Price’s ship, amongst the pirates who kidnapped her for her abilities. It was the Bohem family who used magic to tame the beast of the sea decades ago. They trapped it in an ancient spell to make the waters safe to travel, but it was the vagabonds of the sea who wanted to free it, tame it, and use it for their own ambitions. All her life Estella never had control of her future, but as the notoriously brutal Captain Edward Laggatt hunts her down for the key to the beast’s cage, she has no choice but to trust the same men who stole her away from her socialite life in Charleston South Carolina.

She Tames The Sea is an adult dark fantasy novel that delves into the complications of familial relations, magic and mythology.

Summary: Overall, I LOVED this book. A creative dark fantasy featuring witches, pirates, romance, action, adventure, and magic, I cannot recommend this book enough and am crossing my fingers that we will see more in this series in the future!

See the full review here: She Tames the Sea
Purchase here

 

Review: The Others by T.C. Weber

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Synopsis:

When a corpse with webbed feet and other aquatic adaptations washes ashore during a hurricane, the county medical examiner calls in marine biologist Will Myers for assistance. The deceased’s mysterious sister, Andreia, claims the body and asks Will to help figure out how her brother died. Will and Andreia bond over shared tragedies and a yearning to heal a dying ocean as they seek to learn how her brother spent his final days.

Andreia brings Will to her undersea home, part of a hidden civilization inhabited by smugglers, hackers, treasure hunters, and traders—all members of a different species, driven to the edge of extinction by human diseases and climate change. As feelings between the two grow, the investigation into her brother’s death leads to a sinister plot by a fanatical cabal. Together, Will and Andreia must find a way to save both humanity and the ocean without imperiling the existence of her species.

Favorite Lines:

“Everyone responds to death differently”

“If it takes near-death from a giant shark for a Land-Dweller to want to kiss, it’s a wonder there are so many of you.”

“To friendship, to love, to the kinship of all, and to our collective home, our world.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

When Weber requested a review for this book he mentioned that it beared some similarities to a couple of other works including the Avatar movies, which I loved so I figured I had to read and review this book and I was very glad that I did although I would perhaps compare this more with the tv show, Tidelands and I will be interested to hear what other readers think!

The Others is an engaging undersea science fiction thriller that masterfully intertwines mystery, romance, and environmental themes. The narrative begins with marine biologist Will Myers being called to examine a peculiar corpse with aquatic adaptations that has washed ashore during a hurricane. This event introduces him to Andreia, the enigmatic sister of the deceased, who seeks his expertise to uncover the truth behind her brother’s death.

As Will and Andreia delve deeper into the investigation, Will is introduced to a hidden civilization beneath the ocean’s surface, inhabited by a distinct species facing extinction due to human-induced challenges like disease and climate change. Weber’s portrayal of this underwater world is vivid and imaginative, offering readers a fresh perspective on the possibilities that lie beneath the sea.

The relationship between Will and Andreia evolves naturally, adding depth to the narrative as they confront a fanatical cabal’s sinister plot that threatens both their worlds. Weber skillfully balances the development of their bond with the unfolding suspense, keeping readers invested in their journey.

I was really interested to learn that Weber’s background is as an ecologist which I thought really lends itself to this story; enriching it while providing authentic insights into marine biology and environmental issues. His attention to detail and ability to weave scientific concepts into the narrative enhance the story’s credibility and engagement.

Summary:

“The Others” is a compelling read that combines elements of mystery, romance, and science fiction, all set against the backdrop of pressing environmental concerns. Weber’s storytelling captivates the imagination, making this novel a must-read for fans of speculative fiction/science fiction and ecological thrillers alike.

Check out The Others here!

 

Review: Behind the Ghost Metropolis by Annette Dabrowska

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Synopsis:

Fans of Sylvia Plath, “The Flower That Went Mad” and Charles Bukowski will find pieces of themselves in this edgy debut poetry collection.

I look right through the light
it fills me with courage and strength
to fight against my demons
I’m not alone anymore
I slowly stand up

Behind the Ghost Metropolis dives into the shadows of the mind—mental health, trauma, loneliness—but it also finds light in hope, travel, and resilience. Written during Annette’s manic and depressive episodes, these poems are raw and deeply personal, reflecting her struggle with bipolar disorder and her fight to rise above the odds.

She wrote these poems to break the stigma around mental illness and to remind anyone feeling lost or defeated that there is always hope. This book is for those who’ve been knocked down, dragged through darkness, and still seek their own hidden light.

When writing, Annette draws inspiration from some of the greatest poetic minds in American and Polish contemporary poetry – Sylvia Plath, Anne Sexton, Beatniks, Charles Bukowski, Edward Stachura, and Rafał Wojaczek.

Just like her favorite poets, she often finds herself in different dimensions of cruel whispers, far from the dreamland. But that’s the price she pays for her creations, and she keeps writing because of this artistic force inside her heart and mind.

Favorite Lines:

As I do with all short story and poetry collections, rather than picking out specific lines, I would like to highlight a few of the poems that resonated the most with me:  Youth, Wild Horses, Illusion, 43. ***, 45. ***

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange from my honest opinion.

I would like to put a trigger warning as this collection does deal with complex subject matters such as mental health and trauma and may not be suitable for everyone.

I have always been a big fan of poetry but it is not often that I get a request to review a collection on Likely Story so I knew I had to jump at the chance especially when reading that Dabrowska draws inspiration from many poets including Charles Bukowski; who I adore.

Annette Dabrowska’s debut poetry collection, Behind the Ghost Metropolis, is an evocative exploration of the human condition that dives deeply into themes of mental health, trauma, resilience, and hope. This raw and intimate collection balances a hauntingly beautiful portrayal of darkness with moments of light and healing, creating a vivid emotional journey that resonates on a deeply personal level.

Dabrowska’s prose is striking in its simplicity and power. With language that is both unflinching and tender, she captures the turmoil of inner battles and the fragile yet indomitable strength of the human spirit. Each poem feels like a window into the poet’s soul, offering readers a sense of shared experience and connection. Her ability to weave universal emotions into such personal reflections is what makes this collection truly remarkable.

The book is a masterclass in balancing vulnerability with empowerment. Poems reflecting on loss, despair, and loneliness are interwoven with moments of courage, self-discovery, and the search for freedom. Dabrowska’s imagery strikes a chord that lingers long after the final page.

One of the collection’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Dabrowska doesn’t rely on ornate language or obscure references to convey her emotions. Instead, she uses plain yet poignant language that cuts straight to the heart, making these poems feel like personal confessions shared in trust. This openness invites readers to find pieces of themselves within the lines, creating a deeply immersive experience.

The shorter poems in particular stand out, delivering bursts of raw emotion that are both intense and immediate. At the same time, the collection’s longer pieces delve into the complexities of human resilience, showing that even in moments of despair, there is always a glimmer of hope to be found.

Behind the Ghost Metropolis is a testament to the power of poetry to heal, connect, and inspire. It’s a collection that reminds us that we are never truly alone, even in our darkest moments, and that strength can be found in embracing vulnerability. Whether you’re a seasoned poetry lover or new to the genre, this collection offers a deeply moving and unforgettable experience.

Summary:

Overall, I would highly recommend this collection of poems for anyone seeking a raw and relatable exploration of the human spirit. Dabrowska’s voice is a powerful addition to contemporary poetry, and her debut is sure to leave a lasting impact.

Check out Beyond the Ghost Metropolis here!