Book Reviews

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Hello, Book Lovers!
Authors pour their hearts, time and effort into writing their book. Then they spend hours searching and speaking to many publishers to find the best possible way to distribute their work, without giving all of the profit to the publisher. Sometimes they publish independently! Now, pin this short story I just gave you, because I am going to return to it.
The Author finally manages to publish his work, but no one knows how good the book is unless someone decides to press that star button or writes something nice about it. This is the harsh reality of how things work.
Here is where a nicely written review comes in handy. The first thing you probably should know is that everyone is interested to see what you think. Hence, giving an honest and detailed review not only makes it clear for the buyers but also provides constructive criticism to the writer.

 

Take Notes

When you decide to take on reviewing a book, the first thing you do is taking notes. Every chapter you read will leave an impression on you. It may give you certain feelings or have you question certain things. These are all excellent points you keep for when you decide to write the review.
If you wait until you finish the entire book and then start writing, you may miss certain parts of the book or not be able to give a fair judgment on the entirety of the work. However, if you give it a day, and then read your notes, you are more likely going to make a better judgment and have a better understanding of how good or bad the book really is.

 

Time to Review

First, do not give away the ending!
There are two kinds of reviews you can write:

A Descriptive Review

Aim for the purpose of the work and provide a description mentioning some passages from the text. Make sure the description is intriguing so that the reader will want to know more. Also, try talking about the character, theme, plot, style, setting, biography, and history of the work.

A Critical Review

Aim for knowing more about the author and their purpose in writing such a book. The book should represent what the author does, or is about. This relativity between the author and their book is normally the case for all, however; there are times when they do not sync. In any case, if they do, then you have more to say. You have to be comfortable in knowing the entire context; literary standard and history of the genre in which the book stands on before you can even consider basing any evaluation on the work.

Important note

The content of the work should talk about the things you liked and the things you thought could have been better. Now, here is where you can take that pin out, (the one I told you about above). If you cannot give constructive criticism towards the book, then you better not say anything at all.
Do not forget the Author has spent hours of time and money and his whole heart into the story. Your deconstructive criticism will only give false negative feedback on the book, and you potentially become a factor for a possible cause of a good book becoming underrated. I am sure many may disagree with me here, but I firmly believe that unless you do not have a really negative fact about the book, then you best not say anything at all.

Summary

When you wish to summarize, emphasize more on the good parts of the book, than the bad. You have already stated the negative part, and there is best not to dwell on it too much. If you wish, you can consider rating the book based on how you liked or disliked the book; you can also suggest the reader buy the book or not to consider it at all.
Written by Jeyran Main

 

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Happy bastards by Alex Monaco (Book Review #1719)

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An Interview with Amanda Shaw

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The Little Girl at the Bottom of the Picture: A Journey of Selfless Discovery by Jeremy White (Book Review #1716)

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Terracolina – A Place to Belong by Carla Kessler illustrated by Richard Kessler (Book Review #1715)

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The Flaws in Our Prayers by Magdalena Stanhoff (Book Review #1712)

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The Configuration of a Soul by Irina Diamond (Book Review #1710)

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Interview with Christopher Hearn

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“…And Why Not?” by Sophie Burrus – Müller (Book Review #1709)

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DAYONE: Birth is a Death Sentence by Don Sedei (Book Review #1707)

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2024… Your Year of More by Noah William Smith (Book Review #1706)

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Mary Not Broken by Deborah L. King (Book Review #1705)

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“Night of the Hawk: Poems” by Lauren Martin

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Immortality Is Really Forever by Robert Laconil (Book Review #1703)

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PI the Numerical Cheatcode to the Laws of the Universe by G Neal (Book Review #1701)

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Vashti’s Daughter by Raven West (Book Review #1700)

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The Saintly Imp by Zwahk Muchoney  (Book Review #1699)

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The Playgroup by Jami Worthington (Book Review #1699)

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The Monsters of Marymount Mansion by Gregory G. Allen (Book Review #1698)

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The Heir of Naldukar by L. J. Ussery (Book Review #1697)

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Strange and Twisted Things by Holly Payne-Strange (Book Review #1696)

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SAM TIME By Donna Balon (Book Review #1693)

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Queen of Deception by May Freighter (Book Review #1692)

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Till I Bleed No More by Alexander Ellis (Book Review #1691)

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“Fog & Fireflies” by T.H. Lehnen (Book Review #1682)

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The Thief and the Historian by Brendan Corbett (Book Review #1690)

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A Vacuum for My Birthday by J.M. Gulmire (Book Review #1689)

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Let Evening Come by Yvonne Osborne (Book Review #1735)

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Monsters of North Yellowstone by Sae Luy (Book Review #1686)

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The Untold Prophecy by R.R. Hunter (Book Review #1685)

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Shelter of the Monument: A Provincetown Love Story by Yvonne deSousa (Book Review #1683)

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The Perilous Awakening of Johnny Hazard by E.B. Hauk (Book Review #1681)

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Far From Mortal Realms by Karen A. Wyle (Book Review #1679)

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Controlling Your Anger by Ronald Normandy (Book Review #1678)

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Work-Life Harmony by Adam Churchwell (Book Review #1677)

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Shine Bright – 365 Positive Affirmations for Teens by A L Hill (Book Review #1676)

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Drakomunda – by Guy Quartley (Book Review #1675)

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Chair Yoga for Seniors Over 60 by Uma Devi (Book Review #1674)

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The Great Hunter by Kel Paisley (Book Review #1673)

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Seven Tales From King Arthur’s Court by John Erskine (Book Review #1673)

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Reflections on the Boulevard by LJ Ambrosio (Book Review #1672)

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Galaxy Waffles by Nikolai Wisekal (Book Review #1671)

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Full-Tilt Boogie by Robb T. White (Book Review #1670)

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Color of Authority by Bruce Carleton Fisher (Book Review #1669)

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Ferren and the Angel by Richard Harland (Book Review #1668)

“Ferren and the Angel: A Captivating Prelude to a Thousand-Year War” Richard Harland’s “Ferren and the Angel” takes readers on a captivating journey into a distant future where the echoes of a millennia-long war between Heaven and the Humen reverberate across a transformed Earth. This intricately woven tale explores the unlikely alliance between a young…

One More Seat at the Round Table: A Novel of Broadway’s Camelot by Susan Dormady Eisenberg (Book Review #1667)

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THE BOY IN THE RAIN by Stephanie Cowell (Book Review #1666)

“The Boy in the Rain: A Poignant Tale of Love and Peril in Edwardian England” Stephanie Cowell’s “The Boy in the Rain” immerses readers in the delicate and perilous world of Edwardian England, where love between two men is fraught with danger and societal taboos. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, the…

THE ADORED ONE, a novel of Lillian Lorraine & Florenz Ziegfeld by Susanne Dunlap (Book Review #1665)

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Leader, Not a Boss by Benjamin Babic (Book Review #1733)

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ZIPLINE by P. Anthony Michael (Book Review #1663)

“ZIPLINE: A Gripping Adventure into the Unknown” In P. Anthony Michael’s “ZIPLINE,” readers are taken on an enthralling journey into the mysterious and quarantined Finch Mountain, where secrets, strange creatures, and a hidden zip line await a group of intrepid hikers led by the determined Gail. The narrative unfolds with a group of friends venturing…

Unpredictable Winds by Thomas T. Chin (Book Review #1662)

“Unpredictable Winds: A Heart-Wrenching Tale of Love and Loss in Wartime Shanghai” Thomas T. Chin’s “Unpredictable Winds” is a poignant narrative set against the tumultuous backdrop of wartime Shanghai, where the characters grapple with the harsh realities of occupation, sacrifice, and the unpredictable twists of fate. The protagonist, Lee De-Chang, leads a dual life, working…

TOX by Harken Void (Book Review #1661)

“TOX: A Gripping Post-Apocalyptic Journey Through the Poisoned Wilderness” In Harken Void’s “TOX,” readers are thrust into a desolate and perilous world where survival hinges on the quest for the most basic necessity: breathable air. Set against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic landscape consumed by toxic gases known as the ‘Tox,’ the story follows the…

The Tale of the Young Witch by Joseph Minart (Book Review #1660)

Title: “The Tale of the Young Witch: A Captivating Fantasy Adventure” Joseph Minart and Davon Custis enchant readers with “The Tale of the Young Witch,” a spellbinding fantasy adventure designed for young adults. In a world where witchcraft is believed to be a thing of the past, the resurgence of magic takes center stage, weaving…

The Snow Queen by Suzy Davies (Book Review #1659)

Title: “The Snow Queen: A Captivating Tale of Destiny, Magic, and True Love” Suzy Davies weaves a magical tapestry of romance, destiny, and enchantment in “The Snow Queen,” where the protagonist, Bryony, embarks on a perilous journey foretold in The Book of The Ancients. Davies invites readers into a world where dark sorcery, destiny, and…

The Girl Who Was Too Much And Not Enough by Lelina Durrette (Book Review #1658)

Title: “The Girl Who Was Too Much And Not Enough: A Riveting Tale of Rebellion and Identity” Lelina Durrette’s “The Girl Who Was Too Much And Not Enough” offers readers a refreshing and thought-provoking journey into a futuristic society where perfection is mandated, and rebellion carries unforeseen consequences. This captivating narrative introduces Kiera Rieman, a…

Interview with ELIZABETH BRUCE

· What’s your favorite thing you have written? Oh gosh, I love all my characters in everything I’ve written. I really love all the plain-spoken, scrappy characters in my new collection, Universally Adored & Other One Dollar Stories, just published by Vine Leaves Press, in which every story begins with the words “one dollar,” and…

THE INSTITUTE Stolen Case Files by T S Galindo (Book Review #1657)

Title: “THE INSTITUTE Stolen Case Files: A Riveting Journey into Secret Realms” T. S. Galindo’s “THE INSTITUTE Stolen Case Files” takes readers on a thrilling and mysterious ride through eight captivating stories set in a future shrouded in secrecy. The allure of these stolen case files lies not only in the intricacies of each narrative…

Powerless in Poland “Growing up under the Nazi Regime” by June Triana-Schiada (Book Review #1656)

Title: A Heartfelt Journey of Resilience and Hope in “Powerless in Poland” by June Triana-Schiada “Powerless in Poland: Growing up under the Nazi Regime” by June Triana-Schiada offers readers a gripping and poignant narrative that delves into the lesser-known struggles of innocent German civilians displaced during World War II. This historical novel sheds light on…

The Carolina Variant by Brooke L. French (Book Review #1655)

Title: Unraveling the Web of Intrigue in “The Carolina Variant” Brooke L. French’s gripping novel, “The Carolina Variant,” unfolds a riveting tale of intrigue, conspiracy, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of a deadly virus. As Tess Oliver, a determined young lawyer with an extraordinary memory, stumbles upon a cryptic document, her life…

Discover the Riches of Review Tales Magazine’s Winter Edition

Dear Esteemed Readers and Authors, Embrace the cozy winter season with the latest edition of Review Tales Magazine. This issue ranked 1st bestseller on Amazon, is packed with wisdom, confessions, and invaluable insights from authors who’ve dedicated their lives to writing. Explore topics such as character revival, maintaining focus while writing, and much more. Your…

ON THE VERGE OF SEX by Terrie Lynn (Book Review #1654)

Title: “On the Verge of Sex: A Comprehensive Guide for Teen Relationships” Terrie’s “On the Verge of Sex” tackles the complex and sensitive topics surrounding teen relationships, providing an insightful guide for both teenagers and their parents. In a society where teenagers are exposed to various influences, especially concerning sex, this book aims to empower…

Imagine It Better by Betsy Vail (Book Review #1653)

Title: “Imagine It Better: A Whimsical Odyssey into Creativity and Joy” “Imagine It Better” invites young readers aged 4-12 on a magical journey through the enchanting realms of surreal dreamscapes, offering a kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences illustrated with vibrant creativity. This beautifully crafted poem, written and illustrated entirely by human endeavor, stands out as…

Awarded Best Self Help Book Blog and Website

Review Tales has achieved a significant milestone by being awarded the Best Self-Help Book Blog and Website from Feedspot, securing an impressive 7th place. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work that Review Tales has invested in curating high-quality content for its readers. The selection criteria for this honor…

True North by Randall DeVallance (Book Review #1652)

“True North: A Thrilling Tale of Enlightenment, Vengeance, and Unexpected Reunions” “True North” by Randall DeVallance is a riveting tale that seamlessly blends elements of mystery, suspense, and unexpected connections. Set against the backdrop of True North, LLC, a direct marketing company peddling self-improvement based on the mysterious Burt Leathers’ experiences, the story takes readers…

The Joy and Love of Childhood – How to Change the World While Changing Diapers by Maisie Young (Book Review #1651)

Title: “The Joy and Love of Childhood: A Holistic Guide to Empowered Motherhood” Maisie Young’s “The Joy and Love of Childhood” transcends the realm of traditional parenting books, offering a profound guide for mothers who aspire to be actively present in shaping their child’s life. In this empowering work, Young not only emphasizes the importance…

Of Thieves and Shadows by B. S. H. Garcia (Book Review #1650)

Title: “Of Thieves and Shadows: A Riveting Epic Debut that Transcends Fantasy Conventions” Prepare to be whisked away to the ancient land of Quinaria, where secrets lurk in the shadows and an impending war threatens the delicate balance that has kept three nations in a tenuous peace. In her debut novel, “Of Thieves and Shadows,”…

The Camaro Murders by Ian Lewis (Book Review #1649)

“The Camaro Murders: A Supernatural Journey Through Time and Redemption” “The Camaro Murders,” an intricately woven tale by Ian Lewis, unfolds across two winters, immersing readers in a narrative told out of sequence. Despite its experimental nature, the story reveals a meticulously crafted plot with an enthralling blend of mystery, the supernatural, and the struggle…

Southpaw Sully by Steven Carman (Book Review #1648)

“A Home Run of Courage: Sully’s Inspiring Journey in ‘Southpaw Sully’” In “Southpaw Sully,” author Steven Carman crafts a heartwarming and inspiring tale that follows the remarkable journey of fourteen-year-old Sully. Faced with the challenge of adjusting to life as a right-hand amputee, Sully refuses to let his disability define him as he strives to fulfill…

The Mystery of the Glowing Locket by Liam Moiser (Book Review #1647)

“Enchanting Adventures: Unveiling Centuries-Old Secrets in ‘The Mystery of the Glowing Locket’” In Liam Moiser’s suspenseful coming-of-age novel, “The Mystery of the Glowing Locket,” readers are taken on a captivating journey as two young friends unravel a centuries-old mystery tied to a mystical locket. The narrative is driven by the enthralling experiences of Olivia and…

The Rush by Emma Bartlett (Book Review #1646)

In the gripping futuristic tale “The Rush,” author Emma Bartlett paints a vivid portrait of a world grappling with the consequences of climate change, where technology, environmental threats, and human dynamics intersect in an intricate dance of survival. Set two hundred years into the future, the narrative unfolds around Oliver Chadwick, an agricultural geneticist burdened…

The Alchemy of Affection: Unveiling the Mysteries of Lasting Love by Dr. Kevin Grold (Book Review #1645)

“Transformative Love: A Roadmap to Lasting Connection” In “The Alchemy of Affection: Unveiling the Mysteries of Lasting Love,” Dr. Kevin Grold delivers a comprehensive and empowering guide for individuals and couples alike seeking to navigate the intricate landscape of love and cultivate deep, lasting, and passionate relationships. Drawing on his expertise in psychology, neuroscience, and…

Good Girls Die by Ayura Ayira (Book Review #1734)

“Good Girls Die” by Ayura Ayira is a heart-wrenching and compelling novel that delves into the traumatic experience of Lavender Daniels, a young girl who initially finds herself flattered by the attention of the most handsome boy in her school. However, this attention quickly turns into a harrowing nightmare as he sexually assaults her. This…

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…

Teenage 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…

FIRST 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. At the center…

Jigsaw 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…

White 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,…

Loving & 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,…

Only 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. Desperate to support her ailing mother and driven by a long-planned retribution, Darlene hatches a cunning plan…

FOR 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. The year is 1987, and Spencer Hill…

Paper Targets – Art Can Be Murder by Steve S. Saroff (Book Review #1637)

‘Paper Targets’ is a crime thriller about Enzi, a person with dyslexia who is math-smart and becomes a successful computer coder. While he falls in love with a woman named Kaori, he also meets Tommy, who introduces him to cybercrime. I liked how Enzi began with nothing and then managed to create something of himself.…

Cat’s Curse by Kelley Heckart (Book Review #1636)

‘Cat’s Curse’ is a paranormal historical romance. This is the first book of the trilogy. Set in Scotland, we witness a love story between a prince and a succubus, Aedan and Cardea. While they can’t be together as the prince cannot touch anyone, and she needs to drink blood to stay alive, you are introduced…

Jackson Haines: The Skating King by Ryan Stevens (Book Review #1635)

In the enchanting pages of “The Skating King,” figure skating historian Ryan Stevens skillfully brings to life the remarkable journey of Jackson Haines, a figure skating luminary who left an indelible mark on the world during a time of great historical turbulence—the height of the Civil War. From his modest beginnings in New York to…

Jaguar Dreams by Susan MacBryde (Book Review #1634)

‘Jaguar Dreams’ is a contemporary fiction based deep in the Amazon Basin, where a heavy wave rocks the ground, causing a split and spill of oil everywhere. Kichwa, our protagonist, witnesses wildlife and her villager’s life in danger. Life becomes the battle of survival, so the drama and added conflict between the residents, illnesses and…