Only A Portal Away

 Aliya, a weary junior from the University of Georgia, faces an unexpected dilemma when she discovers her favorite fictional character, Crown Prince Enzo al’Deran, injured and confused in her living room. Enzo claims to be from the not-so-fictional world of Indresal, and he demonstrates the impossible: creating miniature portals. Determined to return home, Enzo enlists Aliya’s help. But danger looms—Enzo’s pursuer has followed him to Earth, intent on killing him. Aliya must decide whether to risk her life for a seemingly imaginary person.

 “Only a Portal Away” is incredibly adventurous, blending humor, banter, and a touch of romance. The playful confusion Enzo experiences in the human realm adds a lighthearted touch. However, the writing style occasionally feels repetitive, and character development could be deeper. Despite these minor flaws, the novel’s unique premise and fast-paced plot make it an enjoyable read. 

If you’re a fan of enchanting worlds and unexpected encounters, this book might just be your next portal to adventure!

LAUGHS LAST BY DYLAN BRODY

 

Laughs Last by Dylan Brody
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Laughs Last” by Dylan Brody is a poignant exploration of family, legacy, talent, and the fluidity of time. Set against the backdrop of a disjointed timeline, the novel follows the life of our protagonist, Damon Blazer. Here are the key elements that make this book unique:

The Weight of Memory:
There may not be boxes strong enough for the weight of memory, but some books can bear it. “Laughs Last” is one such book.
Damon Blazer’s journey into adulthood unfolds in fits and starts, revealing layers of complexity. His quick mind and instinct to flee (preferably before getting punched) shape his experiences.

Family Lessons:
Blazer’s family laughs never mean just one thing. From his brutish and detached brother to his grieving but understanding mother, each family member imparts lessons.
However, it’s the inheritance of his grandfather’s wisdom that truly forms the backbone of Blazer’s biography.

The Storied Comedian:
Damon’s relationship with a storied comedian adds intrigue. The slow reveal of what happened at his grandfather’s funeral keeps readers engaged.
The disjointed timeline runs like an extended callback, emphasizing the urgency of storytelling.
Stages of Grief Across a Lifetime:
As Damon navigates life, we witness the stages of grief revealed across decades. Memories enlarge through tunnel vision or the actual weight of time.
Is nostalgia a water-colored feeling available at any age, or does it flow with the facts of chronology?

Avoiding Foolishness and Hacks:
Blazer fumbles to avoid feeling foolish, being a hack, and living a lifetime of mediocrity.
In this journey, we meet a novelist for a new century—Dylan Brody.

In “Laughs Last,” Brody deftly weaves humor, vulnerability, and introspection. The novel invites readers to ponder the enduring impact of laughter, the weight of memories, and the passage of time.



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PILLARS OF THE EARTH

 

Introduction: "Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett is a historical masterpiece that intricately weaves together the lives of various characters against the backdrop of medieval England. With its rich tapestry of love, ambition, betrayal, and redemption, this novel stands tall as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit amidst the turmoil of the times.

Synopsis: Set in the 12th century, "Pillars of the Earth" follows the journey of Tom Builder, a master builder, as he embarks on a monumental task of constructing a cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge. Alongside Tom, we encounter a cast of compelling characters, including Prior Philip, Aliena, and Jack, whose lives become intertwined in a web of ambition, power struggles, and forbidden love. Against the backdrop of political intrigue and religious strife, the construction of the cathedral becomes a symbol of hope and aspiration for the community, transcending generations.

Review: Ken Follett's "Pillars of the Earth" is a sprawling epic that transports readers to the heart of medieval England with stunning detail and immersive storytelling. At over 1,000 pages, the novel may seem daunting, but every page is filled with intrigue, emotion, and vivid historical accuracy.

Follett's mastery lies in his ability to create a world that feels both authentic and captivating. From the bustling streets of Kingsbridge to the serene beauty of the countryside, each setting is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail. The construction of the cathedral serves as a central narrative thread, serving not only as a physical backdrop but also as a metaphor for the aspirations and struggles of the characters.

What truly sets "Pillars of the Earth" apart is its richly drawn characters. Tom Builder, with his unwavering determination to create something magnificent, serves as the emotional anchor of the story. Prior Philip, with his deep faith and unwavering sense of duty, provides a moral compass amidst the chaos. And Aliena and Jack, with their forbidden love and quest for redemption, add layers of complexity to the narrative.

At its core, "Pillars of the Earth" is a story about the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the challenges they face — from political intrigue to personal betrayal — the characters persevere, driven by their desire to leave a lasting legacy. It's a testament to Follett's skill as a storyteller that readers become deeply invested in the fates of these characters, rooting for them through every triumph and setback.

In conclusion, "Pillars of the Earth" is a masterpiece of historical fiction that will leave readers spellbound from beginning to end. With its sweeping scope, unforgettable characters, and timeless themes, it's a novel that transcends the boundaries of time and place, offering a glimpse into the human experience that is as relevant today as it was centuries ago.

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