Page 18 - Reader's House Magazine

EDITOR’S CHOICE
JUST SAY IT
by Tessa Barrie
“Just Say It by Tessa Barrie is a beautifully written, insightful family drama that masterfully explores love, forgiveness, and personal growth.
Just Say It by Tessa Barrie is a poignant fa- mily drama that delves into the complexities of unconditional love and personal growth. The story follows Lisa Grant, who, at forty, is broke, alone, and facing a midlife crisis in rural Gloucestershire. Her inability to exp- ress love has estranged her from Jack, the love of her life, now living in New York.
Central to Lisa’s turmoil is her relationship with her narcissistic mother, Elizabeth. The mystery of her father’s disappearance when she was six and Elizabeth’s secrecy about it haunts Lisa. As a journalist, Lisa reconnects with her father and uncovers unsettling truths about her mother.
Determined to understand Elizabeth’s lack of empathy, Lisa investigates her mother’s past, revealing childhood traumas that res- hape her perspective. Barrie skillfully port- rays the complexities of familial relations- hips, capturing the pain, frustration, and moments of tenderness that define them.
Just Say It is a beautifully written novel that resonates with anyone who has grappled with difficult family dynamics or sought to make peace with their past. Tessa Barrie’s storytel- ling is engaging and insightful, making this book a must-read for fans of family dramas.
ELEPHANT SAFARI
by Peter Riva
Elephant Safari is a gripping, fast-paced adventure with vivid descriptions and well-developed characters, raising crucial wildlife conservation awareness.
Elephant Safari by Peter Riva is a thrilling and immersive adventure that takes readers deep into the heart of East Africa. This grip- ping tale follows documentary producer Pero Baltazar, his camerawoman Nancy Breiton, and their elite guide Mbuno Waliangulu as they embark on a walking safari to reconnect with the wildlife they cherish. However, their peaceful journey quickly spirals into a chao- tic and dangerous mission to protect a herd of migrating elephants from ruthless poachers.
Riva’s storytelling is both vivid and engaging, painting a rich tapestry of the African landscape and its diverse wildlife. The author’s deep know- ledge of the region and its complexities shines through, making the setting come alive for rea- ders. The plot is fast-paced and filled with sus- pense, keeping you on the edge of your seat as Pero and his team navigate the treacherous ter- rain and face off against a network of poachers whose reach extends far beyond the African bush.
While the book is a thrilling read, it also serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for wildlife conservation. The author’s passion for the subject matter is evident, and readers will find themselves both entertained and enlightened by the narrative.
Elephant Safari is a must-read for fans of ad- venture and wildlife conservation. Peter Riva has crafted a compelling story that not only entertains but also raises awareness about the critical issues facing endangered species. With its well-drawn characters, breathtaking setting, and high-stakes plot, this book is a standout addition to the Mbuno & Pero Thrillers series.
ARESTI
by Evelyn Dunbar Webb
Aresti: Planet of the Red God is a thrilling, immersive adventure with rich world-building and compelling characters. Highly recommended!
Evelyn Dunbar Webb’s “Aresti: Planet of the Red God Volume I: Foothills of the Gods” is a captivating entry into the realm of young adult science fiction and fantasy. The story fol- lows sixteen-year-old Blaas Rakendo, known as Rake, who is brash, impatient, and believes he has all the answers. Armed with his grand- father’s journals and a handful of relics, Rake embarks on a journey to solve the puzzle of his inheritance, only to find himself entangled in a web of political intrigue and dark secrets.
Webb’s world-building is rich and immersive, drawing readers into the mysterious and complex world of ArestI. The narrative is well-paced, with a perfect blend of action, mystery, and character de- velopment. Rake is a compelling protagonist who- se journey from a headstrong teenager to a more mature individual is both believable and engaging.
The plot is filled with twists and turns, kee- ping readers on the edge of their seats. The po- litical intrigue and the dark secrets that Rake uncovers add depth to the story, making it more than just a simple adventure tale. The sup- porting characters are well-developed, each adding their own unique flavor to the story.
One of the standout aspects of the book is Webb’s ability to create a sense of urgency and danger. The threats that Rake faces are real and immediate, and the stakes are high. This ma- kes for a thrilling read that is hard to put down.
Aresti is a must-read for fans of young adult scien- ce fiction and fantasy. Evelyn Dunbar Webb has crafted a compelling and immersive story that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment.
18 II Reader’s House
NOVEL • STORY • LITERATURE