A harrowing novel on women’s agency and survival against a harsh patriarchal and religious conspiracy. Based on a true story that is shockingly cruel A harrowing novel on women’s agency and survival against a harsh patriarchal and religious conspiracy. Based on a true story that is shockingly cruel and disturbing, Women Talking is an account of the ways in which men use ignorance and religion as a means to control, intimidate, silence. It also shows the empowerment of reclaiming education, language, faith, community, on one’s own terms and without the pressures others. This novel is a testament to courage and the sacrifices our mothers make in order to shield us from the hurts of the world, the lengths they go to to open up new possibilities that we can experience, not endure. Thought provoking, timely, and equal parts heartbreaking and uplifting. ...more
A mind-bending journey into time, space, and the essence of the human condition. Following a disillusioned scientist as he fights to unlock the mysterA mind-bending journey into time, space, and the essence of the human condition. Following a disillusioned scientist as he fights to unlock the mysteries of a reality defying mountain, Ascension is not just a claustrophobic account of survival against the elements and the unknown, but also a highly introspective musing on what it means to be human. The use of time is not just a method of unease and uncertainty, but a look into how our memories both haunt and inspire us, how time marches on, and we must make sense of what we can before it runs out. An interesting blend of sci-fi, speculative fiction, and horror, this is a novel that makes for several existential conversations upon finishing. ...more
A colossal work that chronicles the controversial life and legacy of religious leader Jacob Frank. All encompassing, poetic, and candid, the Books of A colossal work that chronicles the controversial life and legacy of religious leader Jacob Frank. All encompassing, poetic, and candid, the Books of Jacob holds nothing back regarding the powerful phenomenon of religious fervor, mass idealism, and cult like communities. This novel illuminates the vastly complicated Jacob Frank, as well as his closest followers and adversaries, which exemplifies how one persons charisma and ideas can alter an entire community’s way of thinking. A tour de force of research and speculation, expertly blending fact and fiction to give new life to a lesser know historical figure that to this day is mysterious and magnetic. ...more
A stunning saga that gives voice to one of histories most fascinating and mysterious women. Through lush and stirring prose, we see the ancient ways oA stunning saga that gives voice to one of histories most fascinating and mysterious women. Through lush and stirring prose, we see the ancient ways of womanhood, storytelling, love, and grief, and how the ties that bind us are more vital and lasting than we realize. We wonder along with Dinah: what does love truly mean? When does forgiveness become an option? At what price do we pursue pride and desire? Who is telling our stories? How do we begin to reveal the truth? Gorgeous, tragic, and graceful, the Red Tent is a tribute to the heart and soul, to dreams and desire, to truth....more
A unique series of explorations on identity, secrets, and religion. Mysterious and tense, Pew is a quiet musing on what it means to be human, why humaA unique series of explorations on identity, secrets, and religion. Mysterious and tense, Pew is a quiet musing on what it means to be human, why humans place so much value on knowing the lives of others, and what role religion serves to both benefit and harm small communities. Filled with thought provoking discussions and ideas which invite reflection. ...more
A whimsical and unique fairytale of adventure, friendship, and justice. Using both religion and folklore, history and fantasy, When Angels Left the OlA whimsical and unique fairytale of adventure, friendship, and justice. Using both religion and folklore, history and fantasy, When Angels Left the Old Country is a charming whirlwind of action and self discovery. With exciting twists and tenderness we also see the pivotal moments that define friendships, new romance, and self identity. Delightfully fresh and wonderfully representative, this is a journey that is worth the read, and will leave you looking fondly at those little shadows that dance between bookshelves. ...more
A haunting tale of oppression, longing, and the devastating choices made from shame and envy. Across two timelines, we see the disastrous consequencesA haunting tale of oppression, longing, and the devastating choices made from shame and envy. Across two timelines, we see the disastrous consequences of equating a woman’s worth to her ability to bear sons. Through beautiful and sorrowful prose, The Girl from the Garden is a chilling remembrance of loyalty, tradition, and the weight of silence. It is a warning against the sting of betrayal, the urge to hurt when feeling hurt. It is a recording of the cycles of nature, the ways in which women align to the trees, the seasons, the moon; it is a solemn assurance that we do remember women of the past, not as they were seen then, but as individual, bright souls who flicker on through history. ...more