Editorial Reviews

An eloquent and evocative ode to human nature, Codex of Echo: Books 1, 2, and 3 by Travis Nagatoshi is a three-part collection of inspiring poetry that gently advocates a path for personal enlightenment. Moving smoothly between philosophical musings, lyrical whimsy, and curious explorations of experience, this dynamic collection is both a call to action and a source of commiseration, encouraging readers to seek out higher realms of thought, emotion, and clarity. Though the sporadic use of bold text can feel like it gives unnecessary emphasis, these optimistic and compassionate verses deserve to be carefully considered and embraced by readers of both poetry and self-help.

An empowering thriller from a powerful new voice, The Perfect Revenge 2: Secrets of the Dragonfly by WilD is an entertaining plunge into the seedy realms of big money and backroom politics. Still plagued by the gruesome secrets of her past, Zoey has a new high-level mission and a team of financial sleuths working beneath her, including her ever-irritating but still undeniably charming ally, Mark. As the team digs into the slush funds of market manipulators, both the personal and professional stakes reach a fever pitch, as Zoey’s past catches up with her. Though Zoey’s resume feels a bit too good to be true and takes some suspension of disbelief, the novel is propelled forward by whip-smart narration and the unwavering, zen-like courage of this fierce protagonist, resulting in a second installment that is gripping from the first page.

Drawing from an abundant pool of spiritual practices, gentle wisdom, and symbolic storytelling, The Roots of Renewal – Wood’s Journey: Stop Overthinking – Find Mental Calm and Inner Direction by Anni Mitchell is an interactive and eye-opening experience. The narrative invites readers to embark on the Path of Renewal, a metaphysical journey through the Sword suit of tarot cards, along with a series of practices to clarify direction, amplify self-awareness, and tap into universal knowledge. The proffered wisdom is also filtered through the lens of the natural world, specifically wood, providing an extra layer of guidance and comfort that is not normally found in the genre of spiritual self-help, and this text is the first in a series of eco-driven works from Mitchell’s inspiring pen. Tarot enthusiasts, open-minded seekers, and anyone desiring greater connection with their inner voice will benefit from the soothing encouragement of this sagely written guide.

An imaginative burst of technofantasy that deftly swings between philosophical depth, cutting-edge science, and gripping magical action, Technomancer by Charlie Forêt is a thrilling combination of genres. When a divine priestess from the realm of Elysia is forcibly sent to Earth, her destiny entwines with Finn, a hacker savant working in the shadows to make up for the devastating mistakes of his past. Bearing the fate of two worlds on their shoulders, these troubled lovers must battle the manipulative forces that seek to use them as weapons, or at least prevent them from becoming saviors. Impressive world-building, neatly crafted prose, and an exhilarating duo at the heart of this sprawling novel make Forêt’s first foray into fantasy a notable success, which could be the start of an electric series.

A covert peek into the seamy world of American espionage in the years following World War II, A Cesspool of Spies by Linda Watkins is an authentic post-war tale of finding purpose in the murkiest of waters. Simon Biggs is a twenty-something veteran with a good head on his shoulders, but no money in his pocket, so when he lands a job with the CIA that will pay for graduate school, he leaps at the chance. After a whirlwind of training, he is sent to Istanbul, where he quickly realizes that surviving in the capital of international intrigue is anything but a game, and if he isn’t careful, his first assignment may also be his last. Unlike so many other slick spy thrillers, Watkins’ novel presents a more humanized and humble side of intelligence operatives, while also delivering sharp dialogue, bursts of action, and searing tension, for a multifaceted historical thriller that is both page-turning and emotionally complex.