John Staughton, Senior Reviewer

Shining a light on the powerful work and legacy of a legendary couple, Politics, Partnerships & Power: The Lives of Ralph E. and Marguerite Stitt Church by Jay Pridmore and Christine Wolf is an illuminating glimpse into America’s unpredictable history. Examining the political rise of Ralph E. Church and his wife’s bold decision to enter politics and win his Congressional seat, the story is rich in historical context and well-researched detail, illustrating how this long series of events shaped the landscape of Chicago and national politics for the better part of four decades. Reading at times like a novel, this […]

A witty collection of poignant quotes concerning the financial burdens we all bear, The Little Black Book of Tax Wisdom: Quotes, Quips, & Quiddities Every Tax Advisor Should Know by Mike Kowis, Esq. is a lighthearted book for anyone whose wallet has ever been lightened by the government, i.e. most everyone. From economists and presidents to actors and modern thinkers, this sardonic text gathers the snarkiest, smartest, and most painfully accurate comments made about the inevitable toll of paying taxes. Loosely grouped according to theme, this critical musing on “legalized larceny” will have you rolling your eyes and nodding your […]

Following a haunted musician with dreams of center-stage and two aging legends seeking a final flash of stardom, “Hello Hammersmith!” by Tim O’Shaughnessy is a gritty blend of musical memoir and emotional drama. The time-leaping storyline moves between a potential comeback for the two synth-pop veterans, and their son Jack’s diverted artistic path after a tragic accident redirects his life. The dialogue crackles with colloquial charm and the narration is viscerally immersive, pulling readers onto the stage of real-life headliners and heartbroken youth with alluring authenticity. A peek into multiple generations of the UK music scene, and a sensitive exploration […]

Bursting with visionary creativity and ominous warnings, The Festival of Sin and Other Tales of Fantasy by J. M. Unrue is a riveting collection of fantastical tales, some that feel prophetically torn from the near future, and others tapping into ancient existential questions. Whether dissecting the ethical implications of immortality among the stars or musing on the destiny of souls still seeking release from tragedy, the author weaves history, myth, and morality into wildly original stories. With a storytelling style reminiscent of Ursula K. LeGuin, and a profound yet straightforward narrative flow, Unrue’s deft pen is confident, clever, and timely, […]

A classic coming of age novella set in the magical world of The Ember Files, Vizard by Shari Marshall is a fantasy parable with a lovable heroine at its heart. After her magic-wielding parents are killed by a vicious Spellbinder, Juniper Berry must embark on a perilous journey – fortunately, her powers seem to be growing with each narrow escape. Fast-moving and fun for sorcery-loving YA fans, this quick read bounces from prison break-ins and romantic dabbles to fairy magic and soul-smashing battles, woven neatly with focused and animated storytelling. Packing an impressive amount of adventure into a compact […]