John Staughton, Senior Reviewer

A compelling and uncompromising memoir, Strawberry Roan: Growing Up in the Shadow of Hermit’s Peak is the powerful life story of author Judy Beil Vaughan. Whether she describes pushing back against political injustice, standing up for gender equality, or simply learning and growing through an intimate link to the natural world, Vaughan has delivered an inspiring tale of independence, stubbornness, and fortitude. She isn’t afraid to shine light on her darkest days and personal struggles, imbuing this memoir with true vulnerability. The writing is authentic and immersive, so whether you love horses or the picturesque Southwest, or simply admire tales […]

From the troubled and tragically hopeful mind of a truly hopeless romantic comes Strange Deaths of the Last Romantic by Moses Yuriyvich Mikheyev. Simmering with dark comedy and questioning the boundaries between magic and physics, this is a crafty novel that can easily make a reader forget it’s fiction. From existential questions about reincarnation to the cutting-edge frontiers of regenerative biology, this novel is a heady dive into mortality, conspiracy, personal identity, and a fatal penchant for love. The writing is smart and confident, and though the first-person narration can get redundant, the relationships feel real, as does the mounting […]

Author Oreste J. D’Aversa outlines a positive path forward through these unprecedented, painful, and dynamic times in Life Beyond the Pandemic. Taking a comprehensive look at how recent events have changed all of us in both unique and universal ways, this book breaks down the work that must be done in our emotional heart, body, and mind as the next chapter of the world begins. The positive tone, step-by-step approach, and underlying goal of greater prosperity and happiness make this an enjoyable read, despite the subject. Some of the language is a bit too informal, and certain sections veer […]

An expansive and daring sci-fi drama, Preons: Alpha is the first installment of a high-octane series by author Frederik T. Stevens. This endlessly creative novel is a coming-of-age story and a galactic thriller, founded on impressive world-building and complex, wounded characters, particularly David, the vengeful protagonist who fuels this violent tale. Dropping readers into this universe without an excess of exposition can feel jarring, but it also makes every detail, reference, and description important – scattered pieces to a fascinating puzzle. The narration is overly declarative at times, rather than visceral or suggestive, but the non-stop action of this cosmic […]