Watson and Holmes: A Study in Black

Watson and Holmes: A Study in Black. Karl Bollers. 2013.  144 pages. New Paradigm Studios.   [Source: Personal Copy] Anyone who knows me remotely knows I adore Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous Sherlock Holmes. I grew up seeing two thick volumes of “The Complete Sherlock Holmes” on the bookshelf and always knew he was a brilliant detective. It wasn’t until a few years ago, when I endeavored to read Doyle’s works, that I understood the hype. Sherlock Holmes is my spirit animal, if spirit animals could be literary characters from the 19th century. When I discovered New Paradigm Studios had jumped into the arena with a modern, urban re-imagining of the famous detective duo, in graphic novel format no less, I had to check it out. Image-based reading isn’t my primary area of expertise; I read the newspaper comics as a teen, but with the exception of one, I never latched on to any comic strip with passion. Frankly, I wasn’t at all sure what to expect with Watson and Holmes and worried that it wouldn’t hold my interest due to a lack of depth to the story. Admittedly, I prefer novels to any other form of literature, but I was willing…

Wantin

Wantin. Truth Devour. 2013. Publicious Self-Publishing. 189 pages. [Source: ARC provided courtesy of Goodreads First Reads program.] I find it refreshing to go on a journey with a narrator, watching their life unfold in front of them and follow their thoughts and actions as they process what it means in the grand scheme of their life. Wantin is a spectacular example of this, as it follows Talia as she embarks upon womanhood. What intrigued me most about Wantin was the book itself. The book is white with a face being revealed from behind a splattering of vibrant colors. The face appears to be that of a young girl looking back at the world. I was curious before reading, wanting to know the symbolism behind it. After reading it, however, I find that it is a foreshadowing of Talia’s experiences and is extremely fitting. Her story is absolutely one in which you begin by seeing things from the eyes of an inexperienced girl; however, as Talia’s journey continues, what she sees is enhanced by her growth.

Author Profile: Rashawnda Ungerer
Author Profile / March 1, 2014

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Rashawnda Ungerer’s debut novel in advance of its release.   It is rare that a book is so compelling to me that I cannot put it down (especially with how hectic life can get), but such was the case with “The Hard Way.”  I am pleased to share that it is now available for purchase at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  I believe it’s important to provide a platform to authors who work independently, as is the case with Rashawnda Ungerer. Take some time to get to know her, in her own words: Rashawnda, the reader Tell us about yourself.  You’re more than just your books, so help us get to know the woman behind “The Hard Way.” I primarily identify myself as a mother and wife because those roles are incredibly important to me and tend to take up most of my time and energy.  I’m originally from West Baltimore, but although I’m a city girl I do enjoy the outdoors occasionally. Apart from reading and writing I love sports as both a participant and a spectator.  I played lacrosse in college, but my favorite sports to play now are soccer and flag football.  I…