Review: Under the Java Moon + Q&A with author Heather B. Moore Blog Tour

Today is my stop on the Under The Java Moon by Heather B. Moore blog tour sponsored by Smith Publicity!

Those who know me well know that WWII books, fact or fiction is my favorite era to read about because it's a time in our history that shows the best and the worst of humanity and if not careful it could be repeated.
Under the Java Moon is one of those tales, a fictional work based on real events it's getting rave reviews including a starred review from LibraryJournal! 
I hope you enjoy the feature.

ISBN-13: 978-1639931538
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Release Date: 09-05-2023
Length: 384pp
Source: Smith Publicity for review
Buy It: Amazon/ B&N/ IndieBound

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

"Resonating with stories of the best and worst amidst the cruelties of war. Highlights an area less explored in WWII fiction. Excellent historical novel based on a true story will be eagerly consumed by readers interested in the era." -Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

Based on a true story, this gripping WWII novel captures the resilience, hope, and courage of a Dutch family who is separated during the war when the Japanese occupy the Dutch East Indies.

Java Island, 1941


Six-year-old Rita Vischer cowers in her family’s dug-out bomb shelter, listening to the sirens and waiting for a bomb to fall. Her charmed life on Java―living with other Dutch families―had always been peaceful, but when Holland declares war on Japan and the Japanese army invades Indonesia, Rita’s family is forced to relocate to a POW camp, and Rita must help care for her little brother, Georgie.


Mary Vischer is three months pregnant when she enters the Tjident women’s camp with thousands of other women and children. Her husband, George, is somewhere on the Java Sea with the Dutch Navy, so she must care alone for her young children, Rita and Georgie, and her frail mother. The brutal conditions of the overcrowded camp make starvation, malaria, and dysentery a grim reality. Mary must do everything she can to keep her family alive.


George Vischer survives the bombing of his minesweeper but feels little hope floating on a small dinghy in the Java Sea. Reaching the northern tip of the Thousand Island would be a miracle. Focusing on the love of his life, Mary, and his two children, he battles against the sea and merciless sun. He’ll do whatever it takes to close the divide between him and his family, even if it means risking being captured by the Japanese.


Under the Java Moon highlights a little-known part of WWII history and the impact of war on Indonesia, its people, and the more than 100,000 Dutch men, women, and children who were funneled into prison camps and faced with the ultimate fight for survival.

Sophia Rose Reviews: Murder at the Majestic Hotel by Clara McKenna

Today Sophia Rose returns with her review of Murder at the Majestic Hotel by Clara McKenna
read on to see what she thought.
Enjoy!

Murder at the Majestic Hotel by Clara McKenna, narrator Sarah Zimmerman

#4 Stella and Lyndy

Historical Mystery

Publisher:  Highbridge Audio

Published:  12.27.22

Time: 9 hours 9 minutes

Rating: 4.5 stars

Format: audio

Source:  library loan

Sellers: Amazon

ADD TO: GoodReads

 

GoodReads Blurb:

Leaving behind tragedies surrounding their wedding at Morrington Hall, travel-worn Stella and Lyndy arrive at the grand Majestic Hotel in York to more misfortune—their stately honeymoon suite has been given away to Horace Wingrove, owner of England’s largest confectionery. Stella refuses to let an innocent booking mistake spoil the mood, but her optimism vanishes when Horace suffocates in the room where she and Lyndy should have stayed . . .

Unlike authorities on the scene, Stella can’t believe the business magnate’s death can be explained away as an accident. Troubling signs are everywhere—strange murmurs in the hallway, tight-lipped hotel staff, and a stolen secret recipe for Wingrave’s famous chocolate. Then there are Horace’s murky intentions for visiting the historic cathedral city, and those who were closely watching his every move . . .

As Stella and Lyndy tour Yorkshire and mingle with royals as husband and wife, they face a sinister mystery that puts their vows to the test. Can the couple work together to discover the truth about their romantic destination and the strange happenings haunting their trip before they’re treated to another terrifying surprise?

Showcase: Bound to Violence by YAMBO OUOLOGUEM

I love all the diverse offerings from OtherPress and I'm excited to share, Bound to Violence one of their new releases with you.
Enjoy!

ISBN-13:  978-1-63542-358-7
Publisher: OtherPress
Release Date: 09-26-2023
Length: 272pp
Buy It: Publisher/ Amazon/ B&N/ IndieBound

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

This critical edition of the epic 1968 Malian novel explores its enduring literary power and the racist plagiarism scandal that devastated its author, the first African winner of France’s prestigious Renaudot Prize.

An engrossing, tragic tale spanning the thirteenth to the twentieth century, Bound to Violence recounts the fate of the imaginary empire of Nakem and the dynasty of the Saïfs who reign there as devious masters.

While the novel was initially praised as an insider’s guide to and critique of African history, with its vivid descriptions of the brutality of local rulers and the slave trade, Yambo Ouologuem’s biting satire goes far beyond his native land. Through the society of Nakem, he paints a universally relevant portrait of sex, violence, and power in human relationships.

In this new edition of Ralph Manheim’s vigorous translation, professor and award-winning documentary filmmaker Chérif Keïta provides invaluable context for the novel, whose publication in the West was mired by accusations of plagiarism, fraught with racist undertones.

Sophia Rose Reviews Murder at the Merton Library by Andrea Penrose

Today Sophia Rose returns with a review of Murder at the Merton Library by Andrea Penrose. Stop by and see why she likes this series so much.
Enjoy!

Murder at the Merton Library by Andrea Penrose

#7 Wrexford and Sloane

Historical Mystery

Publisher:  Kensington Books

Published: 9.26.23

Pages:  304

Rating: 4.5 stars

Format: eARC

Source:  NetGalley

Sellers:  Amazon

ADD TO: GoodReads

 

GoodReads Blurb:

Responding to an urgent plea from a troubled family friend, the Earl of Wrexford journeys to Oxford only to find the reclusive university librarian has been murdered and a rare manuscript has gone missing. The only clue is that someone overheard an argument in which Wrexford’s name was mentioned.
 
At the same time, Charlotte—working under her pen name, A. J. Quill—must determine whether a laboratory fire was arson and if it’s connected to the race between competing consortiums to build a new type of ship—one that can cross the ocean powered by steam rather than sails—with the potential to revolutionize military power and world commerce. That the race involves new innovations in finance and entrepreneurship only adds to the high stakes—especially as their good friend Kit Sheffield may be an investor in one of the competitors.
 
As they delve deeper into the baffling clues, Wrexford and Charlotte begin to realize that things are not what they seem. An evil conspiracy is lurking in the shadows and threatens all they hold dear—unless they can tie the loose threads together before it’s too late . . .

Macmillan Audio review of Payback in Death by J.D. Robb #57 in the In Death Series

Today I'm sharing my #MacmillanAudio review of Payback in Death by J.D. Robb #57 in her In Death series.
Enjoy!

ASIN: B0BVKTFTVL
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Release Date: 09-05-2023
Length: 13 hours - 54 minutes
Source: Publisher for Review
Buy It: Audible/Chirpbooks

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

"Narrator Susan Ericksen's performance vibrates with energy as she portrays old and new characters in this series."—AudioFile on Desperation in Death, an Earphones Award winner.

A retired colleague falls victim to a staged suicide in Payback in Death, the next police thriller from the #1 New York Times bestselling author J.D. Robb.

Lt. Eve Dallas is just home from a long overdue vacation when she responds to a call of an unattended death. The victim is Martin Greenleaf, retired Internal Affairs Captain. At first glance, the scene appears to be suicide, but the closer Eve examines the body, the more suspicious she becomes.

An unlocked open window, a loving wife and family, a too-perfect suicide note—Eve's gut says it's a homicide. After all, Greenleaf put a lot of dirty cops away during his forty-seven years in Internal Affairs. It could very well be payback—and she will not rest until the case is closed.

#GIVEAWAY Review Thank You For Sharing - Interview with author Rachel Runya Katz

It's long been known that I love featuring debut novels and today I'm featuring a gem, Thank You For Sharing  by Rachel Runya Katz, a snarky and warm hearted romantic comedy that received a Starred, best debut, review from Library Journal. Plus I snagged an interview with the author and for the icing on the cake Rachel's publisher St. Martin's Griffin is sponsoring a #Giveaway, details below.
Enjoy!

ISBN-13: 978-1250888297
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Release Date: 09-12-2023
Length: 352 pp
Source: Publisher for review
Buy It: Amazon/ B&N/ IndieBound

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

Our new favorite trope: Childhood friends. To enemies. To lovers. In a chemistry-filled debut romance.

Daniel Rosenberg and Liyah Cohen-Jackson’s last conversation―fourteen years ago at summer camp―ended their friendship. Until they find themselves seated next to each other on a plane, and bitterly pick up right where they left off. At least they can go their separate ways again after landing...

That is, until Daniel's marketing firm gets hired by the Chicago museum where Liyah works as a junior curator, and they’re forced to collaborate with potential career changing promotions on the line.

With every meeting and post-work social gathering with colleagues, the tension (and chemistry) between Daniel and Liyah builds until they’re forced to confront why they broke apart years ago at camp. But as they find comfort in their shared experiences as Jews of color and fumble towards friendship, can they ignore their growing feelings for each other?

With sexy charm and undeniable wit, Rachel Runya Katz's sparkling debut, Thank You For Sharing, proves that if you're open to love, anything is possible.

#Giveaway is for
One Print copy of Thank You For Sharing
US Only
Please use Rafflecopter form below to enter
Good Luck!

Showcase: Fall of Ruin and Wrath by Jennifer

Today I'm showcasing #1 bestseller Jennifer Armentrout's debut in her scorching adult fantasy series, Fall of Ruin and Wrath. Stay tuned for my review of the Macmillan Audio edition coming soon!
Enjoy!

 

ISBN-13:  978-1250750198
Publisher: Macmillan/Bramble
Release Date: 09-17-2023
Length: 432 pp
Awakening #1
Buy It: Amazon/ B&N/ IndieBound

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

SHE LIVES BY HER INTUITION. HE FEEDS ON HER PLEASURE.

From Jennifer L. Armentrout, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of From Blood and Ash, comes the beginning of a searing fantasy romance series for adults, Fall of Ruin and Wrath.

Featured in Cosmopolitan! Most Anticipated from HuffPost Books • BookRiot • PopSugar • Paste Magazine • SheReads • The Nerd Daily • Goodreads • r/RomanceBooks and more!

Long ago, the world was destroyed by gods. Only nine cities were spared. Separated by vast wilderness teeming with monsters and unimaginable dangers, each city is now ruled by a guardian―royalty who feed on mortal pleasure.

Born with an intuition that never fails, Calista knows her talents are of great value to the power-hungry of the world, so she lives hidden as a courtesan of the Baron of Archwood. In exchange for his protection, she grants him information.

When her intuition leads her to save a traveling prince in dire trouble, the voice inside her blazes with warning―and promise. Today he’ll bring her joy. One day he'll be her doom.

When the Baron takes an interest in the traveling prince and the prince takes an interest in Calista, she becomes the prince’s temporary companion. But the city simmers with rebellion, and with knights and monsters at her city gates and a hungry prince in her bed, intuition may not be enough to keep her safe.

Calista must choose: follow her intuition to safety or follow her heart to her downfall.

Breathtaking suspense and scorching romance meet in this immersive new fantasy from a mega-bestselling force, Jennifer L. Armentrout.

#Macmillan Audio Review- Gone Tonight by Sarah Pekkanen

Today I'm sharing my review of the Macmillan Audio edition of Gone Tonight, Sarah Pekkanen's latest psychological thriller.
Enjoy!

ASIN: B0BK2Z2QTR
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Release Date: 08-01-2023
Length: 10 hours - 9 minutes
Source: Publisher for review
Buy It: Audible/ Chirpbooks

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

New from the #1 bestselling co-author of The Golden Couple and The Wife Between Us!

"I'm a huge fan of Sarah Pekkanen's books, and GONE TONIGHT is her best yet." ―Colleen Hoover

Catherine Sterling thinks she knows her mother. Ruth Sterling is quiet, hardworking, and lives for her daughter. All her life, it's been just the two of them against the world. But now, Catherine is ready to spread her wings, move from home, and begin a new career. And Ruth Sterling will do anything to prevent that from happening.

Ruth Sterling thinks she knows her daughter. Catherine would never rebel, would never question anything about her mother's past or background. But when Ruth's desperate quest to keep her daughter by her side begins to reveal cracks in Ruth's carefully-constructed world, both mother and daughter begin a dance of deception.

Showcase: My Shadow is Yours a novel by EDOARDO NESI Translated by GREGORY CONTI

Today I'm showcasing My Shadow is Yours a novel by Edoardo Nesi, it's a novel about an author and a new release from my favorite indie publisher, OtherPress.
Enjoy!

ISBN-13: 978-1-63542-068-5
Publisher: OtherPress
Release Date: 09-12-2023
Length: 288pp

Buy It: Publisher/ Amazon/ B&N/ IndieBound

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

A recent college graduate accompanies a reclusive middle-aged writer on a chaotic road trip to Milan in this hilarious, heartwarming novel about love, friendship, and the pitfalls of nostalgia

In 1995 Vittorio Vezzosi rose to worldwide acclaim with his debut novel, The Wolves Inside. Unfortunately for his adoring fans—and his publisher—he wouldn’t write another word. Instead, the great author shut himself away in a farmhouse overlooking Florence.

After twenty-five years of silence, however, a corporate takeover lights the fire under Vittorio to produce a new novel, and bright young classics graduate Emiliano De Vito is hired to assist him. Off to a rocky start, the odd couple embark on a madcap journey in a 1979 Jeep—without a roof or windshield or doors—to Milan, where Vittorio will speak to a crowd of thousands.

As they travel across Italy, bonding over wine and women, and butting heads over the struggles Emiliano’s generation inherited from Vittorio’s, the two begin to see the world, and writing, in a different way.

Sophia Rose reviews: What Would Jane Austen Do by Linda Corbett - AustenProse PR Blog Tour

Today Sophia Rose is participating in  What Would Jane Austen Do by Linda Corbett blog tour sponsored by AustenProse PR
Sit back and enjoy a bit of information about the book and author and Sophia Rose's review.
Enjoy!

What Would Jane Austen Do? By Linda Corbett

Romantic Comedy

Publisher:  One More Chapter

Published: 6.16.23

Pages:  385

Rating: 4.5 stars

Format: eARC

Source:  AustenprosePR

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | HARPERCOLLINS | GOODREADS | BOOKBUB

ADD TO: GoodReads

 

GoodReads Blurb:

It's a truth often acknowledged that when a journalist and Jane Austen fan girl ends up living next door to a cynical but handsome crime writer, romantic sparks will fly! When Maddy Shaw is told her Dear Jane column has been cancelled she has no choice but to look outside of London’s rental market. That is until she’s left an idyllic country home by the black sheep of the family, long-not-so-lost Cousin Nigel. But of course there’s a stipulation… and not only is Maddy made chair of the committee for the annual village literary festival, she also has to put up with bestselling crime author –and romance sceptic – Cameron Massey as her new neighbour. When Maddy challenges Cameron to write romantic fiction, which he claims is so easy to do, sparks fly both on and off the page…

African Art as Philosophy Senghor, Bergson, and the Idea of Negritude by by SOULEYMANE BACHIR DIAGNE

Those who visit the blog regularly know how much I love OtherPress an indie publisher that thinks and publishes outside the box. Today's feature African Art as Philosophy.. fits that to a tee so I hope you'll give it a look.
Enjoy!

ISBN-13: 978-1-63542-321-1
Publisher: OtherPress
Release Date: 09-05-2023
Length: 208pp
Buy It: Publisher/Amazon/B&N/IndieBound

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

This critically acclaimed study offers a distinct, incisive look at how Senegalese philosopher Senghor sees in African art the most acute expression of Bergson’s philosophy.

Léopold Sédar Senghor (1906–2001) was a Senegalese poet and philosopher who in 1960 also became the first president of the Republic of Senegal. In African Art as Philosophy, Souleymane Bachir Diagne uses a unique approach to reading Senghor’s influential works, taking as the starting point for his analysis Henri Bergson’s idea that in order to understand philosophers, one must find the initial intuition from which every aspect of their work develops. In the case of Senghor, Diagne argues that his primordial intuition is that African art is a philosophy.

To further this point, Diagne looks at what Senghor called the “1889 Revolution” (the year Bergson’s Time and Free Will was published), as well as the influential writers and publications of that period—specifically, Nietzsche and Rimbaud. The 1889 Revolution, Senghor claims, is what led him to the understanding of the “Vitalism” at the core of African religions and beliefs that found expression in the arts.

#GIVEAWAY Showcase - 25 To Life by John Lansing a Partners in Crime virtual tour

25 to Life

by John Lansing

August 21 - September 15, 2023 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

25 to Life is the fifth and latest installment in the Jack Bertolino series, written by John Lansing in the propulsive, cinematic, page-turning style he has become known for.

Gloria Millhouse, a beautiful African American law student, is working with the Project for the Innocent. She has done extensive research on inmate Carl Forbes, who she believes was wrongfully arrested, convicted and incarcerated for a crime he didn't commit, the sexual assault and brutal murder of a teenage girl in Los Angeles twenty-three years ago. Gloria dies in a car crash on Malibu Canyon Road after questioning powerful, politically-connected men who were witnesses at Carl's trial and knew the victim personally. Private investigator Jack Bertolino is brought on to discover the truth behind Gloria's death. Was her crash simply a random accident or a conspiracy to prevent the courts from reopening the case and granting Carl Forbes a new trial? Jack believes that Gloria was murdered, and as the body count rises, it becomes clear that if Jack can find Gloria's killer, he will also find the man responsible for the teenager's assault and murder. And Carl Forbes can walk out of prison a free man.

Praise for 25 to Life:

“Los Angeles–based private investigator delves into a murder with ties to a wrongfully convicted man in Lansing’s detective novel.”
“The author packs this latest installment in the Jack Bertolino series with new and returning characters. Gloria’s mysterious death is the catalyst, but it’s this vibrant cast that truly propels the tense narrative. The author’s incisive writing sets Jack on the investigation right away, and succinct chapters breeze by as he compiles a suspect list and looks into a host of crimes. Even as the culprits become more apparent, Jack must still prove they’re guilty. It all leads to a superb ending and the unmistakable sense that this series is nowhere close to slowing down.”
“Razor-sharp characters propel a taut, suspenseful thriller.”
~ Kirkus Reviews

Book Details:

Genre: Crime/Thriller
Published by: White Street Press
Publication Date: September 5th, 2023
Number of Pages: 276
ISBN: 979-8-9885 166-1-3
Series: The Jack Bertolino Series, 5
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | More