ARC Review: "The Scales of Time" by AvA SiLicA & Eris Mirrane - A Riveting Exploration of Justice's Shadow Side

⭐⭐⭐⭐

As someone who spends my professional life crafting narratives for others, I approached "The Scales of Time" with both curiosity and a critical eye. This collaboration between technical writer AvA SiLicA and the more atmospheric Eris Mirrane promised a unique blend of styles, and on this front, it certainly delivers.

The novel introduces us to Judge Malcolm Thorpe and his daughter Sara, a defence attorney, as they navigate what initially seems like a straightforward murder case involving a rare book dealer. What unfolds instead is a meticulously plotted conspiracy thriller that peels back the veneer of the justice system to reveal a shadowy organization known as "The Society" that has manipulated verdicts and judicial appointments for centuries.

The dual writing styles work surprisingly well together. The courtroom scenes and legal procedures have a crisp precision that lends authenticity, while the more introspective passages exploring the psychological weight of institutional corruption create a palpable atmosphere of paranoia and dread. This stylistic contrast mirrors the novel's central theme: the disconnect between justice's public face and its hidden machinations.

Where the book truly excels is in its exploration of institutional power. As characters discover evidence tampering, witness intimidation, and strategic judicial appointments, the authors create a convincingly intricate web of influence that feels disturbingly plausible. The revelation about Laura Thorpe's connection to The Society provides an emotional anchor to what might otherwise feel like abstract conspiracy.

If the novel has a weakness, it's in occasionally prioritizing its thematic exploration over character development. While Malcolm and Sara are compelling protagonists, some secondary characters feel more like plot vehicles than fully realized individuals. Additionally, the pacing in the middle section could be tightened—some of the investigative sequences become repetitive before the third act ratchets up the tension.

The ending, which sets up what appears to be a transatlantic sequel, strikes a satisfying balance between resolution and continuation. It acknowledges that systems of power can't be dismantled overnight while offering enough hope to avoid nihilism.

"The Scales of Time" is a thought-provoking thriller that should appeal to fans of John Grisham's legal intrigue and Robert Harris's institutional conspiracies. Its exploration of how justice can be manipulated by those who understand its inner workings feels particularly relevant in today's climate of institutional scepticism.

I received an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

— Claire de Voyant, ghostwriter and book reviewer

Hybristophilia - Luigi Pascal Rondanini (to be released in October)

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This psychological thriller explores the complex and dark world of hybristophilia - the attraction to dangerous criminals - through the story of Jason White, a young man convicted of killing his abusive father.

The novel is ambitious in scope, weaving together multiple perspectives and timelines to create a layered narrative about trauma, obsession, and the search for redemption. The author tackles challenging themes like domestic violence, sexual abuse, and the psychological impacts of incarceration with sensitivity.

Strengths:

• Complex, well-developed characters whose motivations feel authentic
• Nuanced exploration of family trauma and its long-term effects
• Compelling legal drama aspects, especially in the trial scenes
• Thoughtful examination of hybristophilia as a psychological phenomenon
• Moments of genuine emotional impact, particularly in Jason and Anita's relationship

Areas for improvement:

• Pacing issues in the middle sections; the story sometimes gets bogged down in details
• Some plot developments feel contrived or overly coincidental
• Dialogue can be stilted or unnatural at times
• The ending wraps up a bit too neatly given the complexity of the issues explored

The author's extensive research into legal proceedings and psychological disorders is evident. The portrayal of hybristophilia feels authentic and avoids sensationalism.

While the writing is generally solid, there are some stylistic inconsistencies and areas where tighter editing could improve flow and impact. The shifts between different characters' perspectives are sometimes jarring.

Overall, "Hybristophilia" is an ambitious and thought-provoking novel that tackles difficult subject matter with empathy and depth. It will likely appeal to readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with legal elements and don't mind grappling with darker themes. Despite some structural and stylistic issues, it's a compelling read that raises important questions about justice, redemption, and the lasting impacts of trauma.

200 Minimalism Quotes - FREE Audio Sample

Hello, my friends,

While we wait for this book's September 28th release, I have decided to let you peek into it.

Here, to the left, you will find an audio sample read by Emily Wilkins.

While the audiobook is in the works, the e-book versions will be available on a variety of platforms in just a week's time.

The paperback will be published worldwide on Amazon on the same day.

Pre-order your copy.

Amazon  and Books2Read 

I hope you enjoy it.

Best,

Claire

The Birth of 200 Minimalism Quotes... A Long and Painful Labour

Creating this book has been an incredibly long and arduous process. But, the feeling of finally bringing it into the world is indescribable. I recently discovered that the copy of the book I sent to the publishers wasn't the final, polished version. In the midst of a major project with a tight deadline, I couldn't locate the latest file. You can imagine the chaos that ensued... 35 quotes were misplaced, and some were even duplicated. I've been working tirelessly since this morning, and only now have I managed to sort it all out. People often assume that writing a book is the most challenging part. Let me tell you, it's not! The real struggle lies in editing, proofreading, and finding beta readers. I'm incredibly grateful to have a friend who assists me with the technical aspects, editing, and beta reading. I honestly don't know if I could have ever published a book on my own without falling into the trap of vanity publishers. So, it's 11:30 PM here in Brighton, and while the world is out enjoying themselves, I'm thrilled to unveil the cover of the audiobook! Yes, there's an audiobook version for those who prefer listening to reading. The narrator is a fresh voice, Emily Wilkins. Emily is a friend of a friend, highly recommended for her tenacity and professionalism in the media world. She was eager to explore this new avenue, and I was happy to have her on board. She started working on the book today, and I had to stop her before she ended up doing the same work twice due to the file mishap. So, without further ado, here's the audiobook cover.

The audiobook will be available on all major entertainment platforms. Well, that's all for now. Time to switch off and get some rest! Goodnight everyone, and thank you for following along on this journey. Claire

200 Minimalism Quotes is up for preorders

Amazon has set my books, up for grab on September 28th.

Here's the link to the electronic version. 

There will also be a paperback one. 

https://a.co/d/56VZcho

Thanks for checking it out. 

Claire 

Announcing My New Book: "200 Minimalism Quotes: Less is More"

Dear readers and fellow minimalism enthusiasts,

I’m thrilled to announce my new book, 200 Minimalism Quotes: Less is More available on Saturday, September 28th, in e-book and paperback version. Six months in the making. 

The Journey

Composing this book wasn’t without its difficulties. The book was to include 500 quotes about minimalism gleaned from many diverse sources, including contemporary writers. While I was accomplishing the task, copyright problems arose, and I had to scrap the whole book and start over with pinpoint focus on the classical wisdom, akin to quotations from many classical writers in a total of 250 quotes about minimalism.

The Structure

200 Minimalism Quotes: Less is More has an inspirational and practical purpose. Each section of the book is the same: 

1. Intro: Short paraphrase of the theme, setting the scene for the quotes below.

2. Quotes: A carefully curated selection of classical wisdom related to the theme.

 3. Reflection Questions: Inspiring prompts that challenge you to take this wisdom and apply it to yourself.

Its Möbius-strip architecture poises you not only to ‘translate’ the wisdom of the ages, but to work on it, to apply it to yourself. In this way, the book offers an aid to self-cultivation and contemplation.

The Purpose

The aim of this work is to offer a new introduction to the wisdom of minimalism. By centring on classical quotations, I show how simple living, intentional living and mindful living are age-old values; thus presenting to the reader the case that minimalism is – at bottom – a historical philosophy and a very ancient, deeply relevant–even urgent–way of living today.

For both newcomers and seasoned minimalists, 200 Minimalism Quotes: Less is More, is an invaluable resource offering groundbreaking perspectives and insights to help you:

- Simplify your life

- Focus on what truly matters

- Find contentment in less

- Apply minimalist principles to various aspects of your life

What You'll Find Inside

The book covers a wide range of topics related to minimalism, including:

- Simplicity in living

- Decluttering physical and mental spaces

- Mindful consumption

- The art of balance

- Minimalism in relationships

- Time and energy management

- And much more!

Each of these topics takes as its starting point classical wisdom and brings it to bear, in an original and timeless way, on the idea of minimalist living. 

I couldn’t be prouder of the various ways this book has mattered as it has been challenging and, in my view, the outcome is an even richer resource of both reflective and pragmatic value than could have been the case otherwise. I’m looking forward to you sharing in it! 

Plan to check back and see why Living Simply, then as now, is a smart choice. 

Stay tuned for more details on how to get your copy!

With gratitude,

Claire de Voyant

Memoirs of Hadrian - Marguerite Yourcenar (French Edition)

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

One of the best historical novels ever written is Memoirs of Hadrian (1951) by the Belgian-born French writer Madeleine ‘Maurice’ de la Sizeranne, Marguerite Yourcenar. The novel provides a moving—and imaginative—insight into the thoughts of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Its writing style, introspective letters, is a master class in historical fiction. The novel is also a thoughtful meditation on power, love, and the human condition.

Through the precision of her research and the elegance of her prose, Yourcenar pushes the story into the deepest recesses of Hadrian’s mind, enabling readers to feel there too, as if we were experiencing ancient Rome that long ago: Hadrian thinks, learns, senses, chooses, acts, and suffers. He appreciates the contours of landscapes, has an ear for languages, and wisdom for the politics of his time. He is a philosopher who aspires to sway Athens with his teachings, if only for the admiration of his lover. He thinks of marriage and becoming a father, and he gives himself completely to Antinous, whose death he mourns as both political unrest in Syria and a profound personal loss.

Memoirs of Hadrian transcends the boundaries of a traditional historical novel, offering a philosophical drama that delves into universal questions about leadership, the pursuit of peace, and the capricious nature of human mortality. Yourcenar’s portrayal of Hadrian as a complex and sympathetic hero, grappling with the demands of empire and his own humanity, adds a profound philosophical layer to the narrative. 

Memoirs of Hadrian is a challenging read but well worth the effort. Yourcenar combines the rigours of historical authenticity with lyrical reflection while also demonstrating why the melancholy, conflicted, but generous-hearted emperor of her imagining continues to engage with 21st-century minds and hearts. 

This is a great work of literature, offering a singular view of history and leaving an indelible impression on the reader. It is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, philosophy, and beautiful prose.

This is the best historical fiction I have ever read.