Book Corner News & Reviews

About the Author

James Peifer is a retired business-owner from Silicon Valley.

He was an Army Captain and a combat veteran of the Vietnam War.

He lives in Napa, California.

Connect with the Author

THE AXE by Linda Griffin Book Tour Giveaway

Other Books from the Author

The Vigilante. Buy on Amazon

Just Call Me Source. Available on Amazon

Are you a Kindle Unlimited subscriber?

For a limited time you can get a 30-Day Free Trial when you sign up!

Thriller Read more

Thursday, January 16, 2025

Angela Thompson 6:03 AM 2

Audiobook Review: The Axe by Linda Griffin

This morning, I have a mystery suspense story in our featured book review spot! Check out The Axe, read my thoughts on the audiobook, learn about author Linda Griffin, and enter the book tour giveaway at the end of this post.

Book Title:  The Axe by Linda Griffin
Category:  Adult Fiction (18+),  66 pages (1 hour, 46 minutes)
Genre: Mystery, Suspense
Publisher: ACX (ebook edition by The Wild Rose Press)
Release date:  July 2024 (ebook edition September 2023)
Content Rating:  PG-13. A few f-words. Sexual violence that is not depicted, but is described by the victim (not explicitly) and may trigger some listeners.

Many of our posts contain affiliate links.
Should you purchase an item via our links--we may receive slight compensation from an
affiliate partner.

About the Book

Sweethearts Eric Leidheldt and Desiree Chauveau are spending a weekend at his uncle's cabin when they encounter two strangers cutting wood. Eric is knocked unconscious, and Desi is viciously attacked. The following day two police officers come to their apartment to arrest Desi. Her assailants are dead, murdered with an axe, and her fingerprints are on it. She confesses but is she really guilty? Eric is determined to stand by her, but the physical and emotional effects of the attack severely challenge their relationship.

My Review

The Axe Packs A Lot of Action into a Short Space. The story is short, with the written version hitting only eight chapters and 66 pages. The author packs a lot of action and dialogue into the short space. The action and suspense launch immediately, and the pace carries through to the last few pages. The gnawing suspense keeps readers engaged and invested in finishing the mystery puzzle and hearing the pieces lock into place.

The Author's Writing Style Works Well in the Audiobook Format. The novel is very dialogue-driven and the plot is more psychological drama than convoluted mystery. The storyline is simple, with only a few characters, and the author leaves enough breadcrumbs that readers will expect the ending. Having said that, readers should expect to become engaged enough in the dramatic scenes that they will be invested in the main characters' stories through the last page.

The Narration Creates an Emotional Journey in a Short Space. The narrator successfully gave each character a distinct voice that pulled readers into the emotional, dramatic story. There was never a point in the story when I couldn't "hear" which character was "speaking."

Would I Recommend The Axe by Linda Griffin? I didn't find the first part of the story very realistic, so it took a bit for me to settle into the book. If you are seeking a technical, convoluted mystery with deeply developed characters--this short novel is not that book. However, if you focus on the psychological drama and the character interactions, the novel is very engaging and interesting. You will solve the mystery before the end, but still have plenty of reasons to stay invested in the novel's outcomes. It's a simple, easy-to-understand story that will hold reader or listener interest to the end. The novel's subject matter is a difficult one, but it creates a very engaging, dramatic storyline here.

Buy the Book

Amazon ~ Apple
Audible ~ Audible.ca ~ Audible.au ~ Audible.uk
add to goodreads

Meet the Author

Linda Griffin knew she wanted to be a "book maker" as soon as she learned to read and wrote her first story at the age of six. Her passion for the printed word also led her to a career with the San Diego Public Library. She retired to spend more time on her writing and has had stories published in numerous literary journals The Wild Rose Press has published nine of her novels. In addition to the three R's—reading, writing, and research—she enjoys travel, movies, Scrabble, and visiting museums and art galleries. .

connect with the author: website ~X ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Enter the Giveaway

Angela Thompson 5:03 AM 0

Nonfiction Spotlight: The Landmark Achilles by James George Brianas

Today, I am joining the book tour for nonfiction history novel The Landmark Achilles! Check out the book, learn about author James George Brianas & read a quick excerpt from the book!

In Search of His Palace, His Family, Homer, the War, and the Bronze Age Mediterranean

Nonfiction

Date Published: October 30, 2024

Publisher: Mindstir Media

Many of our posts contain affiliate links.
Should you purchase an item via our links--we may receive slight compensation from an
affiliate partner.

About the Book

The Bronze Age Mediterranean, 3200 1200 BC, was a period of high movement, intrigue, and warfare. In this book, the author, through extensive research with "Boots on the Ground," provides a new, cohesive, and comprehensive view of that age, the evolution of the Greeks into the Mediterranean, the kings and commander with their fortresses and palaces, and capped in the final years with Homer's war, "The Greatest War Story Ever Told." He describes not only how the Greek hero Achilles and events of that war leave a lasting legacy but also weaves in five generations of the family of Achilles, the truth about Homer and his war, and solves the mystery of the palace site of Achilles and his father Peleus. Excavations of Troy from 1871 to the present are revealed as are the discovered clay tablets of the Hittites identifying numerous wars at Troy and along the Aegean Sea in western Anatolia. The ultimate collapse of the Bronze Age and its kingdoms brings this author's epic saga to its final conclusion, the devastation of that end period harboring ominous signs for our own world today.

Read an Excerpt

His tomb lies on the plains of Troy, a mound of earth some 30 feet (9 m.) in height

and crowned by large white stones. Today it is an isolated spot along the far northeastern

Aegean coast, far from his homeland on mainland Greece, visited by no one, some 7 miles

(11 km.) southwest of the citadel, the fortress of Troy, whose once massive walls repelled

the Greek armada of over 1000 ships and the thousands of battle-tested Greek warriors.

Yes, he was the fiercest and the most courageous amongst them—the great Achilles. No

tourist visits the tomb. It is now a desolate area surrounded by farmland and rolling terrain

with the Aegean Sea a stone’s throw to the west. It was here along the coast that the armada

landed and set up camp, a rather secluded coast protected from the winds streaming out of

Thrace to the north and the Hellespont, today’s modern Dardanelles strait. It was here that

the war began between the Greeks and the Trojans, Homer’s Trojan War, that 10-year long

struggle in which it was prophesized Achilles would die. But in his death, he rises above

all other Greek warriors. He is the hero. His immortality is secured and the legend begins.

Early Reviews

A general reader, Jason Breyer, Palm Harbor, FL, working with the UPS, said of the book, "I couldn't put the book down. I was absorbed in fact versus myth and I had to keep on reading."

A Publishing Director, Danielle Allan, Boston, MA, with Mindstir Media, stated, "Your manuscript is fascinating. The book captures powerful storytelling while leading the reader through your adventures and combining them with legendary stories."

Another reader, Alexander Lardis, Annapolis, MD, a Senior Scientist (retired) with the U. S. Government, said, "The research is phenomenal, well-documented, and with a wealth of information. It was fascinating. I left feeling I had read a great story."

Buy the Book

B&N

About the Author

Contact Link

Angela Thompson 4:41 AM 0

Children's Book Spotlight: Baxter Learns to Save by Italia Tornabene

Today, I have an engaging children's book that focuses on financial topics in a fun way for young readers! Check out Baxter Learns to Save & learn about author Italia Tornabene!

Baxter Learns to Save

Children's Book

Date Published: June 4, 2024

Many of our posts contain affiliate links.
Should you purchase an item via our links--we may receive slight compensation from an
affiliate partner.

About the Book

Baxter Learns to Save is a vibrant journey into the world of savings, investing, and diversifying, tailored to empower children with financial wisdom that's often missing in early education. Through the playful adventures of Baxter the Bunny and Hazel the Hedgehog, this book plants the seeds of financial literacy in young minds, showing them the importance of building a savings nest egg and the magic of making it grow.

Guided by the astute Wise Mr. Owl, our furry friends explore the forest's natural bounty, learning life-changing lessons about managing resources and ensuring a bountiful future for themselves and their forest friends.

This delightful story is not just a narrative; it's a foundational step towards securing a financially stable future for the next generation.

Buy the Book

Amazon

Meet the Author

Italia Tornabene, a self-made millionaire, author, serial entrepreneur, and savvy investor, shares her extraordinary life experiences.

From rubbing shoulders with elite individuals to her unconventional career as an exotic dancer and sex worker, Italia's journey is as captivating as it is inspiring.

Discover how she overcame hardships and built an empire through resilience and determination. Her story is empowering and empowering testament to the resilience inherent in us all, and she's thrilled to share her wisdom with everyone she encounters.

Connect with the Author

Instagram

Facebook

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Angela Thompson 5:22 AM 0

Children's Book Feature: The Dream of Glory by J.J. Luna

I love finding new children's books to share! Today, I have a Christian-based story from author J.J. Luna! Check out The Dream of Glory, see a quick excerpt, and learn about the author!

Children's Book

Date Published: September 11, 2024

Many of our posts contain affiliate links.
Should you purchase an item via our links--we may receive slight compensation from an
affiliate partner.

About the Book

Discover an unforgettable journey of faith, adventure, and life lessons with The Dream of Glory, a heartwarming Christian story that the whole family will cherish. George, a devoted father, along with his wife, guides their two lively children, Emily and Emmanuel, through the excitement and challenges of life, teaching them about safety and instilling a strong foundation of faith in Jesus.

Set against the backdrop of thrilling adventures and moments of suspense, this story introduces readers to the family's courageous encounters with danger-including fierce wolves-and the power of unity and faith that sees them through. As George shares essential lessons about being aware of their surroundings, young readers will not only be entertained but also educated on important safety principles.

Written by J.J. Luna, a nurse and loving father from Yucaipa, California, The Dream of Glory is his first published book, inspired by personal challenges and his passion for guiding children through both excitement and learning. Perfect for children aged 3 to 12, this book is crafted to captivate young minds, enrich their faith in Jesus, and teach them invaluable lessons about awareness and resilience.

Give your child an inspiring tale filled with family values, the teachings of Jesus, and adventures that will keep them turning the pages. The Dream of Glory is a perfect addition to any Christian family's library.

Read an Excerpt

Buy the Book

Join Kindle Unlimited! 30 Day Free Trial!!

B&N

About the Author

J.J. Luna is an author, devoted father, and seasoned healthcare professional living in the picturesque town of Yucaipa, California. With over 12 years of experience as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), J.J. has dedicated his life to caring for others and spreading joy through laughter and compassion. Beyond his career, he is actively involved in his community, coaching his son’s coed U10 soccer team and fostering a spirit of teamwork and fun.

Driven by his passion for family, faith, and storytelling, J.J. Luna embarked on his first literary journey with The Dream of Glory, a Christian children’s book that intertwines adventure, life lessons, and spiritual teachings. Inspired by personal challenges and a deep desire to guide young readers, J.J. created this tale to encourage safety awareness and strengthen children’s faith in Jesus.

When he’s not writing or working, J.J. enjoys spending time with his family, exploring the outdoors, and making meaningful connections with those around him.

Connect with the Author

Angela Thompson 4:58 AM 0

Children's Book Spotlight: Yay...I Love to Learn by Mr. B's Books

This morning, I have another fun children's book from Mr. B's Books to share! Check out Yay...I Love to Learn and learn about the author!

Children's Book

Date Published: July 23, 2024

Many of our posts contain affiliate links.
Should you purchase an item via our links--we may receive slight compensation from an
affiliate partner.

About the Book

Another wonderful rhyming children's story from Mr. B about the value of learning at school, home or with family and friends...Yay. The thirteen rhymes and and magical illustrations bring excitement and fun to the importance of learning, listening, paying full attention and the importance of asking questions with every learning experience. Like Mr. B's first first three books, Yay...It's My First Day of School, Happy Makes Me Happy and Twins With Love x2 your hearts will smile.

Buy the Book

Join Kindle Unlimited! 30 Day Free Trial!!

B&N

About the Author

Mr. B

Happy Makes Me Happy

Amazon Best Selling Children's Book Author

Mike Barnes is a semi-retired new author whose passion for writing came to fruition upon his retirement from 38 years of authentic servant leadership.

As a father and grandfather, Mike was reading to his twin granddaughters and decided to unleash his passion for writing children’s books with rhyming stories about love, care, and kindness.

In addition to Happy Makes Me Happy, Mike has a second book Twins With Love x2 and a third book, YAY… It’s My First Day of School coming this year.

Mike also recently started Barnes Leadership and Strategy Coaching whereby he has been a keynote speaker on Authentic Servant Leadership Hardwired to the Heart.

Connect with the Author

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Angela Thompson 7:01 AM 1

Historical Fiction Review: The Girl of Many Crowns by D.H. Morris

This morning, I have a historical fiction novel based on real characters. I love genealogy and exploring the connections of the past! This fictionalized story is based on true characters and events--and the author's own family history discoveries. Learn about The Girl of Many Crowns, read my thoughts on the novel, learn more about author D.H. Morris, and enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post.

Book Title:  The Girl of Many Crowns by D.H. Morris
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +), 305 pages
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher:  New Classics Publishing
Release date: October 4, 2024
Content Rating: PG due to some mature subject matters, but no graphic violence, language, or sexual content.

Many of our posts contain affiliate links.
Should you purchase an item via our links--we may receive slight compensation from an
affiliate partner.

About the Book

The true and inspiring story of a powerful knight and a run-away queen who unite to defy an empire.

King Charles, the first king of France, is beset by Vikings, rebel lords, and his brother, all seeking to take his kingdom. To strengthen his kingdom, King Charles marries his twelve-year-old daughter Judith to elderly, widowed Aethelwulf, King of Wessex. When Aethelwulf dies unexpectedly, Judith is pressed into marrying Aethelwulf's cruel eldest son. When her second husband also dies, twice-widowed Judith refuses to accept a third arranged marriage.

As punishment for her refusal, King Charles imprisons 16-year-old Judith in one of his palaces where she is visited by her brother, Louis, and his knightly companion, Count Baldwin “Iron Arm.” When Baldwin helps Judith escape, they are hunted by her father’s men and must flee for their lives. Can Baldwin and Judith hold on to each other and their faith as they face the fury of an empire?

My Review

The Girl of Many Crowns is Well-Written, Well-Researched, and Engaging. I enjoy historical fiction that transports readers to another time and place, but I often have difficulty connecting with books set in the time presented here. That wasn't the case this time. The author presents a well-researched, well-written novel that fully immerses readers in the time. I enjoyed experiencing the strongly developed historical setting and the characters' emotional journeys.

Expect Many Characters and Events. Initially, I found the number of characters, relationships and activities a little daunting. It took a while for me to settle into the storyline and properly "place" the characters and their various roles in order in my mind. Having said that, once I organized the characters, the author pulled me flawlessly into the book's time period and scenes. The novel has a little bit of everything from politics and alliances to real historical characters and events based on truth, along with challenges and romance. For much of the book, I found myself drawn more to Baldwin as a character than to Judith, but the author didn't take long to give both characters endearing presences.

Would I Recommend The Girl of Many Crowns by D.H. Morris? If you enjoy historical fiction set in medieval Europe, this story is a wonderful combination of fact and fiction that is well-developed and engaging. The author gives her young characters (her ancestors) voices that provide unique perspectives to the time and historical events presented. If you aren't a regular reader of medieval fiction, it may take a bit to settle into the characters and the roles--but give it time because the book is a remarkable story that you won't want to leave at the end.

Buy the Book

Bookbaby
Amazon ~ B&N
add to goodreads

Meet the Author

A native of San Diego, California, D. H. Morris has lived on four continents and traveled through many countries. She has four children and eleven grandchildren and currently lives in Kansas City, Missouri. She graduated from Utah State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre and Choral Music education and pursued graduate work in English at USU and law at the University of Utah. She is also a published playwright.

As a descendant of Judith and Baldwin, the author discovered their intriguing story while doing a genealogical project. This journey inspired her to research everything about the 9th Century – including food, politics, travel, war, education, clothing, jewelry, religion, holidays, marriage customs, and medicine. She loves talking about this remarkable time in history when the European countries we know today were being formed and fighting for their very existence.

connect with the author: website ~ pinterest~ goodreads

Enter the Giveaway