BookTrib’s Bites: Four Refreshing Summer Reads

(NewsUSA) - “Voices of the Civil War” by Barry Robbins

Step into the hearts and minds of those who lived through America's darkest chapter with "Voices of the Civil War", a groundbreaking work that brings history to vivid life through meticulously crafted first-person narratives.

More than just a retelling of battles and dates, "Voices of the Civil War" plunges you into the human experiences and wrenching emotions of a nation at war with itself. Feel the agonizing weight of command, the adrenaline-pumping terror of combat, the soaring hope of emancipation and the heart-rending anguish of a country torn asunder.

Prepare to be transported back in time and forever changed by the poignant, personal voices within these pages. You'll walk away with a profound new appreciation for the impossible choices, the inspiring resilience and the staggering human toll of the war that forged modern America. Purchase at https://2ly.link/26Qn3.

“Thunderbird Rising” by John H. Thomas

An action-packed alternate-history thriller full of uncertain loyalties, deceit, and international espionage set in Seattle and New York City.

Maxx King is a former Army Ranger turned cybercrime investigator trying to get his life back on track when he has an unexpected confrontation with a ruthless Chinese spy. Struggling to understand the escalating violence, he discovers a clandestine US-China conflict centered around a device of unknown origins with the power to trigger massive natural disasters.

Caught between competing US government agencies, Chinese assassins, secret informants, and a rising number of deaths, Maxx must get to the truth before the next catastrophe strikes. Things get personal when it turns out his girlfriend has been working on the covert project and may be the source of damaging leaks that threaten national security.

A great fit for fans of Jack Slater, Matthew Reilly and Steve Berry. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3Q0HWVO.

“Parenting with Pride: Unlearn Bias and Embrace, Empower, and Love Your LGBTQ+ Teen” by Heather Hester

Your kid just came out to you, and amid the flurry of emotion, you know you would do anything to protect their health and happiness. And you are not alone! Heather Hester, coach, advocate, and host of the #1 rated podcast, “Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen,” combines an honest retelling of her own son’s coming-out experience with wide-ranging research, conversations with dozens of professionals, and the unique experiences of other families to provide the ultimate guidebook for parents embarking on this journey.

Hester gently guides parents and caregivers through the four pillars (Embrace, Educate, Empower and Love) toward fully supporting and loving their LGBTQ+ child. With trustworthy information and an accessible, straightforward plan, “Parenting with Pride” provides actionable yet profound tools and mental shifts to help parents support their teens and themselves and be a catalyst for change in their communities. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3RieZpi.

“Return to Hawaii (A Donovan Cross Novel)” by Daniel Voelker

Originally from Hawaii, NIA agent Donovan Cross has not returned home in nearly 30 years. The unexpected death of his parents altered the course of his life. Instead of attending a prestigious college on a scholarship, he chose a path of spying and espionage.

When the Agency ordered him to return to his birthplace, he anticipated confronting painful memories of his parents' passing. However, those feelings were replaced by a sense of excitement and rejuvenation.

Unbeknownst to him, his presence on the island is crucial to addressing a sensitive global crisis: China's imminent invasion of Taiwan. Hawaii is being used, shrouded in secrecy, to facilitate this invasion. The skills Cross has honed over the years and his knowledge of the island's secrets will lead him and his newfound ally, the beautiful Jade Viper, on the thrill ride of a lifetime. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3GPwyee.