An emotional representation of the human experience of betrayal and abandonment - Eve Hamilton (unpublished poem)

I am pleased to review a poem by Eve, the narrator of Volume 2 of my book.

Her work is unpublished, so I will avoid copying the text here and place in the title what I think is the essence of her poem in a single line.

However, I will provide a link in this comment when and if the poem will be available online.

Rating: 5/5

This poem delves into the universal themes of betrayal and loss, weaving them into the narrative of an abused and neglected horse. This horse, a poignant metaphor for the soul, vividly embodies the pain and suffering of individuals who have been betrayed and abandoned by their loved ones. Its emotional journey, from hope to despair, resonates deeply with the reader, drawing them into its world of anguish and resilience.

The story of the horse is a powerful portrait of the pain and suffering of individuals whose trust has been abandoned, betrayed, or abandoned. The vivid description of the physical and emotional suffering of the horse lies with those who have encountered its experiences of abuse and abandonment. 

The author's use of the first-person narrative creates a strong connection between the reader and the metaphorical horse, creating a deeper emotional connection in the lines "I've worked so hard, I've trotted for miles, my feet are sore" and "I thought they loved us, so why are we here?" They evoke empathy and understanding as readers see the parallels between the horse's experiences and their own. 

The execution pen is a metaphor for the terrible and hopeless situations in which individuals are betrayed or abandoned. The other animals in the execution pen symbolise their shared experiences, constructing separate injustices and emphasising that prevalence. The horse’s shattered dream of a peaceful retreat to greener pastures represents the lost hopes and aspirations of those whose lives have been enriched by the actions of others. 

The final line, "The kill pen will be our last ever sound," is a haunting and powerful statement about the terrible and irreversible consequences of betrayal and abandonment. 

Throughout the poem, the author skilfully uses literary devices such as repetition, emotional detail, and rhetorical questions to enhance the emotional impact and build allegorical meaning, emphasised in the story of the horse.

In conclusion, this poem is a masterful exploration of the human experience. By narrating the tale of an abandoned horse, the author crafts a poignant and universally resonant commentary on betrayal, loss, and the indomitable spirit of humanity in the face of suffering. The poem’s emotional depth, vivid imagery, and inspirational message make it a truly outstanding and unforgettable work of art, one that leaves a lasting impression on the reader's heart and mind.

Reawakening the Magic by Facing the Shadows Series on Audible - Free Promo codes for the US and the UK

 Dear reader,

Now that Trevor Grant and Eve Hamilton have completed their production, I am delighted to offer you an exclusive opportunity. You can get a free promo code to listen to my story and their version on Audible, a privilege reserved just for you.

Here is the description of the work as published on Amazon.

Feel free to contact me to get the codes. I hope you will leave an honest review to help me promote these books.

This two-volume collection traces the roots of iconic fairy tales to uncover the surprisingly unsettling themes that endure through sanitised modern retellings aimed at young audiences today.

Book One digs into the original, disturbing folkloric underpinnings of classics from “Little Red Riding Hood” to “Sleeping Beauty,” exposing troublesome tropes that romanticise abuse, normalise child neglect, tout female disempowerment and more. Cultural analysis reveals that the evolution of these tales toward more “palatable” variants allowed problematic notions to persist subtly.

Book Two offers reimagined versions of the same fairy tales reshaped to promote healthy relationships, model redemption, celebrate diversity, resolve conflict through communication, and impart values of empathy and courage. By preserving the magic of these classics while confronting darkness, fairy tales can enlighten new generations rather than perpetuate the prejudices of the past.

This set delivers insight into the complex role iconic childhood stories play in conditioning cultural beliefs across generations. Fairy tales endure because their primal motifs speak to timeless truths in the human experience. But as moral guides, we must ensure their lessons enlighten young minds rather than preserve archaic limitations.

By tracing the genealogy of famous fairy tales from obscure folkloric origins to their iterations as sanitised children’s canon, patterns emerge in the selective editing that allowed unhealthy tropes to persist. This forgotten context explains how even whimsical fantasy worlds children inhabit subtly normalise notions modern society rejects, from violence and xenophobia to female disempowerment.

But examining this heritage creates opportunities to consciously reshape fairy tales to nurture values like empathy, courage and redemption instead. The author does just that in Book Two, offering short updated versions that retain magic while promoting positive ideals. This set inspires readers to think critically about the stories we feed impressionable minds and their immense power to mold our cultural conscience. For fairy tales that illuminate progress already underway can transform society ever after.

Mnemonic Phantasms - Ava Silica

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Mnemonic Phantasms, a captivating journey into the realm of ghostwriting, is a testament to the power of storytelling and the intricacies that lie beneath the surface of the literary world. As a seasoned ghostwriter, I had the unique opportunity to review this manuscript before its publication. Ava Silica's work resonated with me on a deep level, reflecting the shared experiences and challenges of our craft.

Throughout the e-book, Silica takes readers on a unique journey, recounting her most extraordinary and unconventional ghostwriting experiences. From alien-abduction memoirs to celebrity pet psychics, from doomsday prepper cookbooks to billionaire vanity biographies, each chapter is a distinct narrative that showcases the author's adaptability and keen observational skills. What distinguishes this book is the way Silica effortlessly blends the bizarre and the profound, leaving readers both entertained and reflective.

As a ghostwriter, I found myself nodding at the side of Silica's insights into the industry—the challenges of taking pictures of a patron's voice, the ethical dilemmas that stand up while taking over arguable initiatives, and the regular push-and-pull among creativity and compromise. Her tales function as a reminder that at the back of every book, there are infinite untold stories of collaboration, conflict, and the pursuit of truth.

But Mnemonic Phantasms is more than just an insider's look at the ghostwriting alternative. It's additionally a meditation on the character of authorship, identification, and the blurred traces between reality and fiction. Silica's narrative is full of surprises, and readers can expect a stunning coup de théâtre to leave them wondering what they thought they knew about the book and its introduction.

While compensated for my proofreading offerings, I have not received any fee or incentive to depart from this evaluation. My evaluations are my own, and I agree that Mnemonic Phantasms is a need-to-read for everyone interested in the craft of writing, the publishing industry, or the sheer energy of a properly told tale.

Ava Silica, who authorised this review, has created a unique and charming painting that pushes the bounds of the memoir genre. Her willingness to experiment with shape and content is a testament to her bravery as a writer, and I don't doubt that this short book will spark many conversations about the position of ghostwriters in the literary world.

In conclusion, Mnemonic Phantasms is a rare gem that offers both entertainment and intellectual stimulation. It's a book that will make you laugh, ponder, and question everything you thought you knew about the writing process. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to readers and fellow writers, and I eagerly await Ava Silica's future literary endeavours.

Update. The book is now available on Kindle Unlimited and Amazon in an Ebook version. 

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.