Review Tales
Trusted Reviews and Author Features Since 2016
Reflections on Literary Publishing from Heresy Press’s Perspective by Bernard Schweizer
Heresy Press was founded one year ago in response to a profoundly unsettling state of affairs in literary publishing. Many authors felt increasingly alienated, disrespected, and bewildered because the rules of the game had been changed without them being consulted. Whereas formerly acceptance into the literary fold had been based primarily on solid demonstrations of literary merit, i.e. imaginative originality, superior style, and narrative skill, all of a sudden, authors found themselves forced to abide by a set of more mundane rules.
Read MoreTeenage sleepovers and the beginnings of my writing by Stephanie Cowell
I never fail to read the acknowledgements on the back pages of novels, seeing the lists of those who helped to bring the book together. I am always amazed at the number of them and wonder what each one contributed. Writing my own thanks, I am swept back to teenage sleepovers in an old apartment building by the chilly wind-blowing Hudson River on New York City’s Upper West Side.
Read MoreFIRST EVIL by JOHN WHITE (Book Review #1644)
In his debut dark fantasy novel, author White invites readers into the tumultuous world of disorder in the fantastical city of Arcatia. “FIRST EVIL” unfolds as a captivating narrative with a cast of characters as diverse as the challenges they face, offering a memorable epic quest laced with dashes of dark humor.
Read MoreJigsaw puzzle in a vortex by Aurora M. Lewis (Book Review #1643)
In “Jigsaw Puzzle in a Vortex: A Collection of Memoirs,” Aurora M. Lewis takes readers on an intimate journey through her family’s genealogy, providing a poignant narrative of life as a black woman in America. With a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of her roots, Lewis weaves a tapestry of stories that unravel the complexities of racism, personal triumphs, and the indomitable spirit of black women.
Read MoreWhite Slaves: 15 Years a Barbary Slave by Nicholas Kinsey (Book Review #1642)
In this meticulously researched and heart-wrenching historical account, the summer of 1631 is brought vividly to life as Dutch corsair and pirate Murad Reis unleashes terror upon the peaceful fishing village of Baltimore, Ireland. “White Slaves” narrates the harrowing story of 109 men, women, and children who are captured, enduring a 38-day voyage to Algiers, where they face the unspeakable horrors of slavery.
Read MoreLoving & Leaving by Jack Lucci (Book Review #1641)
In the debut installment of his memoir, author Jack Lucci invites readers on a gripping exploration of his tumultuous coming-of-age, both in the heart of America and beyond its borders. Hailing from a small town in southeastern Washington known for its wine and wheat fields, Lucci’s narrative unfolds into a captivating journey marked by self-discovery, indulgence, and profound life lessons.
Read MoreOnly Dead Leaves Fall by Vincent Donovan (Book Review #1640)
In the aftermath of the cataclysmic solar storm known as Sun-Kissed, the world lies in ruins, and amidst the chaos, Darlene Connolly navigates the scorched landscape, living on the edge with a heart fueled by revenge and desperation.
Read MoreFOR LOVE OF SELF by Robin Reardon (Book Review #1639)
Reardon’s latest novel, set against the backdrop of the quaint town of Assisi, Vermont, delivers a heartwarming tale of Reverend Spencer Hill’s immersion into his newfound community. In this charming narrative, the author skillfully weaves a story that encompasses faith, found family, and the pursuit of genuine community.
Read MoreLeaving Lisa: Loss, Recovery, and New Love by E.K. Mitchell (Book Review #1638)
‘Leaving Lisa’ is a romance fiction about Jason, who grieves the loss of his wife through an accident. Lisa owns an AI machine that talks to Jason and tells him what to do now with her ashes and how to rebuild his life through her conversations with him.
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