Hello Stranger - Katherine Center

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Katherine Center's latest novel, Hello Stranger, is a heartwarming and entertaining read that will appeal to many readers. The book follows Sadie Montgomery, a struggling portrait artist who develops prosopagnosia (prosopagnosia) after brain surgery. The situation proves particularly challenging because Sadie, a finalist in a prestigious portrait competition, must navigate her personal life and relationships without being able to recognise faces.

I praise the Center's ability to create lovable and quirky characters, infusing humour, emotion, and romance into the story. Sadie's journey of self-discovery and growth is a central theme as she learns to cope with her illness and accept help from others. Supporting characters such as Sadie's best friend Sue, neighbour Joe, and her beloved dog Peanut add depth and warmth to the story.

While some critics found the storyline somewhat predictable, with a few coincidences that made it hard to believe, the story's charm and heart more than made up for these minor flaws. The author's engaging writing style and the book's fast pace immerse readers in Sadie's story from beginning to end.

Some reviews I read also praised Center for shedding light on the rarely discussed condition of prosopagnosia, praising her ability to balance humour and emotion in a satisfying and uplifting way. I can only agree with them. 

The author's note at the end of the book is also worth highlighting, as it provides insight into the central point about the importance of hope and joy in storytelling.#

Overall, "Hello Stranger" appears to be a delightful and heartfelt novel that showcases Katherine Center's talent for creating lovable characters and crafting stories that leave readers with a smile.

I would give "Hello Stranger" a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. This rating reflects the book's ability to captivate and entertain readers while delivering a meaningful and emotionally resonant story.

Exciting News: Volume 1 of My Book Series Approved on ACX!

So, ACX, the Audiobook Creation Exchange, has given the go-ahead for the first volume of my two-part series. My thanks to Trevor Grant, who has done a magnificent job on his narration, thus bringing the book to life for everyone. I am grateful that you could do it so beautifully.

Volume 1 is for parents, educators and adult learners who appreciate the inner workings of a child.

If you're in either the UK or the US, I have a special offer for you. Contact me to receive free promotional codes for the audiobook, a token of appreciation for your interest in my work.

But that's not all. The highly anticipated Volume 2 is just around the corner. I'm confident that Eve Hamilton's engaging voice will captivate both young readers and listeners, bringing the characters to life in her storytelling of this volume. 

Although Volume 2 is directed at children, beyond a parent and principal’s introduction, it is also on Amazon for Kindle and as a paperback-priced book. Both Volumes are awaiting your inspection now!

I invite readers to this literary journey and hope you will enjoy it.

CdV

Reimagined Tales: Subverting Expectations in Fantasy and Digital Legends - Pascal de Napoli

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As the author of the introduction to "Reimagined Tales: Subverting Expectations in Fantasy and Digital Legends," I must admit that I feel a bit awkward reviewing this collection. However, I can't not express my admiration for the innovative and thought-provoking stories within its pages.

"The Looking Glass Tales" and "Code of Justice—Robin Hood Saga" not only offer a fresh perspective on classic narratives but also a unique blend of fantasy and modern technology. This innovative approach challenges readers to re-examine their preconceived notions of good and evil. At the same time, the author's skill in creating compelling and immersive worlds is sure to captivate the imagination.

Each story within these collections is a masterful exploration of the complexities of morality and heroism. The characters, with their richly drawn personalities, offer struggles and motivations that are not only illuminating but also deeply relatable. As readers navigate the twists and turns of these reimagined tales, they are invited to question the very nature of justice and the transformative power of empathy and understanding.

While my perspective may be partial, given my involvement in the introduction, I firmly believe that "Reimagined Tales" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates innovative storytelling and the power of literature to challenge and inspire. These stories, with their lingering impact, will continue to resonate in your mind long after you've turned the final page, inviting you to see the world through a new lens.

Economics for Young Minds - Luigi Pascal Rondanini

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

"Economics for Young Minds" provides an engaging and accessible introduction to the often complex world of economics for children and teenagers. The author, Luigi Pascal Rondanini, draws on his extensive background in finance and passion for mentoring youth to break down fundamental economic concepts in a way that is easy to understand.

The book covers a wide range of topics including needs vs wants, supply and demand, production, money and banking, government policies, trade, financial markets, and even emerging areas like cryptocurrency. Rondanini uses relatable examples, stories and straightforward language to illustrate how these economic principles impact our daily lives. 

One of the strengths of the book is how it encourages critical thinking about big societal issues. Rondanini challenges readers to consider how innovation can expand inclusion, the importance of sustainability, and the role of ethics in profit-seeking. The book empowers young people to see themselves as active participants who can shape the future economy.

While generally very informative, some sections could benefit from even more real-world examples to reinforce the teachings. A few of the more technical concepts may still require an adult's guidance to fully grasp. 

Overall, "Economics for Young Minds" is a valuable resource for any parent, educator or student looking for a solid foundation in practical economics. By sparking curiosity early, Rondanini inspires the next generation to dive deeper into this important field that impacts us all. Both educational and motivational, this book provides a gateway to a lifetime of economic literacy.

The Housemaid's Secret - Freida McFadden

 ⭐⭐⭐

The Housemaid's Secret by Freida McFadden is an entertaining yet flawed sequel that fails to match the brilliance of the first book. Continuing the story of Millie the housemaid, this book finds her taking a job cleaning for the wealthy Garricks in their New York City penthouse. However, the reclusive Mrs. Garrick seldom leaves her room, raising Millie's suspicions. 

This fast-paced psychological thriller initially hooks readers in with the mystery surrounding the Garricks. However, the first half feels slow with minimal plot development. Millie's repetitive thought patterns also become grating after a while. The prose lacks nuance, and the storyline grows predictable despite a few twists.

That said, the shocking twist halfway through the book makes for a gripping turn of events. Seeing things unfold later from a sociopathic perspective adds intrigue. Some of the final revelations also take readers by surprise. Ultimately, these second half twists feel clever but require too much suspension of disbelief.

In the end, while The Housemaid's Secret works fine as popcorn entertainment, the story stretches credulity a bit too far. And with no memorable characters or profound ideas to contemplate, the book fails to leave a lasting impression. Fans of domestic thrillers may have some fun thanks to the fast pacing. But readers who prefer psychological depth and plausibility may end up disappointed.

I would give this sequel 3 out of 5 stars as it falls short of being a skilfully crafted thriller. The repetitive writing style, shallow characterisations, and improbable plot diminish its impact. Still, it serves its purpose as a diversionary read. Those new to Freida McFadden's work would be better off starting with the superior first novel, The Housemaid.

Project Management for Young Minds - Luigi Pascal Rondanini

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

As a novice to project management approaching this introductory book, I found it an inviting and reasonably paced first glimpse into the field and frameworks for conceiving and executing projects – whether treehouses with the kids or business expansions in the office.

The author eases new readers in using understandable language and a colourful tone that makes the content feel more like story time than a technical textbook. Examples stay down-to-earth and practical using engaging scenarios. Chapters build gradually in complexity without seeming intimidating to inexperienced managers.

While the overall orientation skews towards younger team leaders with its hip lingo and occasional cartoonish characters, as a parent and small business owner in my 50s, I still discovered many valuable takeaways applicable to launching my own ventures. The breakdowns around scope management, budgeting techniques, risk planning, team coordination, and adaptability skills clarify fundamentals I wish I knew when I first kicked off initiatives decades ago.

In particular, the case studies analysing historical undertaking like massive railway expansion in the 1800s demonstrate how purpose-driven yet methodical project leadership can transform industries and propel civilization forward by leaps. I appreciate the balance of entertainment with substance.

If anything, at times the light tone borders slightly too much on candy instead of nutrition. Certain essential project elements perhaps deserve more gravity, with kids needing to appreciation potential building hazards and fiduciary duties fully even while having fun. A few deeper mathematical examples would also be welcome. But by and large, it covers the pivotal concepts and mindsets effectively.

Overall as a project administration primer for the curious layperson, I believe the energy and insights will appeal to pre-teens while still leaving parents and other newcomers better equipped to productively shepherd operations from imagination to fruition after reading. I commend the friendly packaging of multifaceted project management foundations into easily digestible bites for the younger Builder Books series!

Free reviews for published and unpublished books

Greetings, 

I am an avid reader. If you would like me to read, review, and provide feedback on your book or manuscript, I would be delighted to do so free of charge. 

What's the catch, you may ask? There is none. As an author and ghostwriter myself, I believe in helping others in the writing community.

In order for me to review your work, I would need a PDF or EPUB version, as I rely on my computer for reading due to vision issues. Please also provide a synopsis and any specific feedback requests. Additionally, to ensure suitability, please confirm your book does not contain gender bias, excessive gore, or exceed 100,000 words. 

I will not publish the review anywhere without your approval. As evidenced by my past reviews, I have high standards for a 5-star rating.

Please let me know if you would like me to review your book. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

CdV

PS. I am fluent in English and Italian and intermediate in  Spanish and German.