Til Freedom Do Us Part by Seven Nelson and Aleeza Nelson

Review by: Samantha M. Siciliano

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Quick Summary:

Til Death Do Us Part introduces us to a world where some of the United States’s population have powers- some controllable, others dangerously unleashed. Through shifting perspectives, we follow Requiesha, Anthony, Ironic, and Lamiyah- supers condemned to the infamous fortress-prison, Fort Riker. Each voice reveals a different facet of the brutal, twisted games of survival they must endure against hundreds of other teams to gain their freedom. Welcome to Fort Riker, where your stay will be a nightmare, the warden is a miserable human, and where supers (especially cryptics) are mistreated in prison and society.  

The Review:

THIS. BOOK. WAS. AWESOME! If you crave the ruthless spectacle of Squid Games or the sacrifices seen in The Hunger Games, then this book will electrify you! The warden of the prison of supers (people who have special powers) is following a plan called Project Hawke. However, unlike the plan where one team receives freedom if they defeat all the others, the warden decides the fate of the losers… and death is on the table. For their first challenge, each prisoner must choose a partner. Requiesha and Anthony unite, as do Ironic and Lamiyah, each pair navigating a gauntlet of violence and impossible odds. 

What captivated me the most was the masterful use of multiple points of view. The narrative shines a searchlight on each character’s inner worlds as they evolve- scarred yet still reaching for hope. Memories and present horrors intertwine, revealing how trauma shapes and sometimes shatters one’s world. Character development thrives in this chaos, reminiscent of “The DaVinci Code” and ESPECIALLY The Bloodsworn Trilogy by John Gwynne. Now, “Til Freedom Do Us Part” joins their ranks. 

Recently, I’ve been drawn to stories that wrench the heart, and this one is no exception. There were moments reading Til Freedom when I found myself holding my breath, tensing my muscles, grinning at small victories or cute moments, genuinely happy, or sad, mourning the losses that felt all too real. Anger shone through at the plethora of injustice. I hate injustice (I know that most people don’t like it, but it’s something that I tend to hyperfixate on). I hate it when people aren’t treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. The book forced me to step away, to question what justice could possibly look like in a system so broken, and whether anyone would be held accountable. Some characters were so twisted and psychologically unhinged that their enjoyment of suffering royally ticked me off. Imagine Umbridge from Harry Potter- only with more blood on her hands. 

Like Aleeza’s other work, Blank 12, the ending was wonderful. I always love a happy ending, as I truly feel that almost everyone in life deserves one. But especially in a dystopian world where injustice and suffering are rampant. I closed this book satisfied. The writing was sharp, the story tightly woven, and as Schmidt from New Girl would say: “No notes!” I’m giving it a solid 5 out of 5. If you’re craving a fresh dystopian adventure, do yourself a favor and READ THE FRACKING BOOK!

I received an advanced copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book will be released in February 2026.

Up Next: Golden Son by Pierce Brown

Red Rising by Pierce Brown

Review by: Samantha M. Siciliano

Thank you for reading, sharing, and joining this reading community!

Welcome, fellow sci-fi book lover! Before you dive in, hit that blue follow button and join our vibrant reading community. Want updates on future reviews? Drop your email! If this review sparks joy, share it with a friend or blast it across your favorite social media. Your support fuels our literary journey! Thank you for reading, sharing, and joining this reading community!

Quick Summary:

Red Rising is set in the future where humanity has colonized the Milky Way, and a harsh caste system rules the galaxy. At the bottom are Reds, mining in the bowels of Mars for Helium 3, believing their sacrifices will one day make Mars a habitable place for future generations. This sci-fi, dystopian story follows Darrow, who quickly learns that the promise of reward is an absolute lie. Lost love leaves Darrow with a yearning for justice, a pining to destroy those who have enslaved his people. Darrow decides that risking everything to infiltrate the Golds is the only way to bring freedom and justice. 

The Review:

Listening to the audiobook, narrated by Tim Gerald Reynolds, was a treat! The Irish accent made Mars seem like a different place from where I live in America. 

***

I would have lived in peace. But my enemies brought me war.

WHAT AN OPENING! I am hooked!

***

Red Rising is an insanely fast-paced book that kept me engaged throughout the whole story. I found myself so engrossed that hours slipped by unnoticed. After I closed the book for the night, I continued thinking about what could happen next. The plot is packed with twists and turns, some predictable and others quite surprising, keeping both my attention and the tension high throughout.  

Pierce Brown’s world-building was impressive. Mars is vividly imagined with the advanced technology, strict social hierarchies and their expectations, and political intrigue woven into every aspect of life. The contrast between the Reds and Golds is stark: while the Golds flaunt their power and control - even leaving food uneaten to show self-control - the Reds struggle for survival, their lives focused on family. Themes of control, power, and rebellion are ever-present, making the story feel both epic and frustrating. 

Darrow’s character arc is one of the novel’s strengths. He starts as a confident Helldiver, one of the best, but as the story unfolds, he’s forced to adopt the mindset of the Golds while clinging to memories of his Red past. I found myself wanting more insight into the supporting characters of Cassius, Goblin, Mustang, and Jackal. I wanted to be a brain worm and know what they were thinking, how their survival, conquest, struggles, and accomplishments were going. I wish I had known what adventures Goblin was enjoying. I wanted to know what Cassius was doing after his betrayal. I needed to know what Mustang was thinking during the time she was taking care of him and what her strategy was. I wanted to see how the Jackal was a terrifying conqueror who seemed to deserve to win. It also would have been fun to be in the head of a Proctor or two. However, all of this could have potentially ruined a few of the twists that had occurred. Maybe a 1.5 book should be in the works!

Sevro was my favorite character. Sevro was able to think outside the box to not only survive but thrive. He stood out for his loyalty, resourcefulness, and quirky personality. His contributions to Darrow’s missions were invaluable, and his shenanigans brought much-needed levity to the story. He and his Howlers were a blast to follow!

My biggest qualm with this book was the sexual violence. While it may serve to highlight the brutality of the Gold’s society or mimic early Greek culture, it is a difficult topic that deserves thoughtful handling. This topic is something that our society takes lightly, and it pisses me off. The impact on the assaulted victim is lasting, and I feel like when authors use this subject in their story, it continues to normalize it. Victims must live with the pain of the memories of what happened to them, while in many cases, the perpetrators walk or get a measly slap on the wrist. 

Despite these darker moments, my overall experience with Red Rising was fantastic. The high-stakes action and rich world-building makes for a thrilling read. This book shall receive a 4.7/5. If you want a fast-paced, thought-provoking sci-fi dystopian novel with rebellion, intrigue, and heart, I highly recommend you READ THE FRACKING BOOK!

Up Next: Til Freedom Do Us Part by Seven Nelson and Aleeza Nelson

Blank 12 by Aleeza Nelson

Review by: Samantha M. Siciliano

Welcome, fellow book adventurer! Before you dive in, hit that blue follow button and join our vibrant reading community. Want updates on future reviews? Drop your email! If this review sparks joy, share it with a friend or blast it across your favorite social media. Your support fuels our literary journey! Thank you for reading, sharing, and joining this reading community!

Quick Summary:

Blank 12 catapults us into a post-apocalyptic America, where Devon—a young man infected with the Blank 12 disease—struggles to survive. This disease bestows strange powers but often destroys one’s sanity. Devon’s family sought refuge in Florida’s Glass Cities, escaping the chaos outside. Now, Devon is drafted into the Blanker Defense Force, forced to wield his powers in a world where danger lurks at every turn, including hiding his true identity.

The Review:

Let me tell you, Blank 12 is a wild ride! After a streak of haunted and historical reads, plunging into the adrenaline-fueled world of Glass City was a breath of fresh, dystopian air. Devon’s character is a standout—his backstory unfolds seamlessly, giving us just enough to understand his motivations and intentions without overwhelming us. I felt a deep connection to his fierce desire to protect his family and his girlfriend, Reisha. Who wouldn’t risk it all for their loved ones?

Devon’s interactions are authentic and relatable, especially with his squad in the BDF (Blanker Defense Force). The relationships are present but never overshadow the pulse-pounding plot—perfect for young adult readers who crave action over romance. My students would devour this book! They’d revel in the dystopian setting, debate the most loathsome characters, and spin endless “what-if” scenarios. The pacing is spot-on: no info dumps, no handholding, just pure, immersive storytelling.

Now, let’s talk about the ending. Things were a bit rushed, and I was left with burning questions: How did a helicopter from D.C. track Devon and Reisha all the way to the Mexican border? How did “so-and-so” become president? What fate befell Devon’s family? I invented my own answers—maybe Dr. Noah was secretly sending patient data to D.C., or perhaps a sneaky tracking device was involved. And of course, I imagined a happily-ever-after for his family (because who doesn’t love a happy ending in a dystopian world?).

As a teacher, I couldn’t help but notice quite a few grammatical hiccups, especially in the final chapters. They didn’t ruin the experience, but I did find myself pausing to mentally edit.

Will there be a sequel? I hope so! I’m eager to see more world-building, answers to my lingering questions, and the author’s growth. Watching a story evolve is one of my favorite things.

Blank 12 was exactly what I needed— fast-paced, engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable. I’m giving it a solid 3.8 out of 5. If you’re craving a fresh dystopian adventure, do yourself a favor and READ THE FRACKING BOOK!

I received an advanced copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book will be released in February 2026.

Up Next: Red Rising by Pierce Brown

Haunted Southwest Florida by Christopher Balzano

Review by: Samantha M. Siciliano

Welcome, fellow spooky seekers and history lovers!

Thanks for joining me for this eerie adventure into the haunted corners of Southwest Florida! If you enjoy this review, don’t forget to follow, subscribe for updates, and share with your fellow ghost story enthusiasts. Your support keeps our haunted little book club alive—and maybe a little possessed. Drop a comment below; I love hearing your thoughts!

Quick Summary:

Step into the shadowy past of Southwest Florida, where curses have lingered since Hernando de Soto arrived in 1539 (and maybe before, since the First People lived there for many years). From Civil War specters and tragic love stories to spiritual leaders (or cult figures, depending on who you ask), this book is packed with tales that will send a chill down your spine. There’s even a ghostly lawman protecting departed children. Intrigued? Read on—if you dare.

The Review:

Christopher Balzano’s Haunted Southwest Florida is a must-read for anyone craving a supernatural road trip. Honestly, I wish I had this book back in 2020 when I visited Florida! We flew into Punta Gorda and stayed in Venice. Had I known about Mary Leah Sandlin’s haunted home, I would’ve made a detour! I was especially touched by the story of the Wynn family, who treated Mary Leah—who died at just 14—as one of their own kids a little under a century after her death. It’s rare to read about the living and the dead coexisting so peacefully.

And here’s a twist I didn’t see coming: a connection to Benton Harbor, Michigan—practically in my backyard! Tootie McGregor wanted a proper road in front of her home, so she hired Maurice Pearl from Benton Harbor to build one using macadam. But when his crew started digging for materials on a nearby island, they unearthed a staggering number of human bones—possibly over 100 bodies! If that island isn’t haunted, I’ll eat my EMF reader (I don’t have one, but I will buy one just for that excursion).

Balzano’s storytelling shines brightest in his exploration of how oral history evolves. He presents original versions of ghost stories and then shows how they’ve morphed over time. One example: the tale of a Vietnam War veteran who supposedly jumped from the Canopy Walk. Turns out, the timeline doesn’t add up—the Canopy Walk wasn’t even built yet! It’s a fascinating look at how legends adapt to fit our narratives and how they endure through later generations. 

While the stories were captivating, I did wish some of the photos were better lit—there were a few I wanted to examine more closely. Also, the chapter Who Plays at the Opera House felt somewhat scattered. In other chapters, I noticed some repeated information and minor typos throughout. These are small critiques and didn’t detract much from the overall experience. 

Despite a few hiccups, Haunted Southwest Florida is a delightful dive into the eerie and unexplained. Balzano’s laid-back, tour-guide style makes you feel like you’re walking alongside him through haunted halls and cursed lands. I give it a 4.3/5—a perfect pick for spooky season reading!

IN CONCLUSION, READ THE FRACKING BOOK!

I received this book from Arcadia Publishing in exchange for an honest review. 

If you enjoyed this review, don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share with your fellow book lovers. Your support keeps our reading community alive (and maybe a little haunted)!

Up Next: Blank 12 by Aleeza Nelson

Haunted Virginia Cemeteries by Sharon Pajka, PhD

Review by: Samantha M. Siciliano

Welcome, fellow thrill seekers and history buffs!

Thank you for joining me for this review! If you enjoy what you read, please consider following, subscribing for updates, and sharing with friends or on social media. Your support helps our reading community grow. I love hearing your thoughts—feel free to leave a comment below!

Quick Summary:

If you are craving a brisk, spine-tingling read this spooky season, dive into Haunted Virginia Cemeteries by Sharon Pajka. It is your ticket to a world where history and hauntings collide. Pajka’s book isn’t just a collection of ghost stories; it is a lantern guiding you through the shadowy corners of Virginia’s past! She illuminates the lives of colonial settlers, women, war heroes, soldiers, enslaved peoples, and dearly departed pets. 

The Review:

Sharon Pajka’s writing is warm and inviting, making you feel as welcome as a hot apple cider on a crisp autumn night. She invites you to sit in a cozy chair by the fireplace, put on your warm blanket, and listen to her as she spins tales that blend history, folklore, and local legends for all to read.  She brings history to life through her plethora of photos, primary sources, and local folklore, making sure to preserve the stories of the deceased and of places that might otherwise be forgotten.

The book is filled with fascinating stories. The first chapter explores animals in cemeteries, and later, you’ll discover presidential pets interred at Sherwood Forest’s Pet Cemetery. One memorable tale involves author Ellen Glasgow, who, after passing away, wanted her late, beloved dogs buried with her—a sentiment I wholeheartedly share!

I have been to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, where the remains of unidentified soldiers from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War are located. However, I was not aware of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution in Alexandra, Virginia. His story could have easily been lost to time. However, he and unidentified others from the Revolutionary War, whom he represents, can be remembered and thanked for the sacrifices that they made.

There are quirky legends, too, such as the obelisk at Bruton Parish Church in Williamsburg. Belonging to Nathaniel Beverly Tucker (1784-1851), it is said to have been struck by lightning three times, THRICE, leaving marks that some say resemble famous faces. At first glance, I could see Abraham Lincoln’s face, and after staring at the picture for a few more moments, I saw a pit bull. Others say that they see Edgar Allen Poe. 

Warning! Goosebumps guaranteed! Perhaps the creepiest story comes from Cedar Hill Cemetery in Covington. Martha Jordan’s tragic fate of being buried alive in 1848 touches on a deep, universal fear: being mistakenly pronounced dead while still alive. Pajka even references modern cases from 2009 and 2022, proving that truth can be stranger - and scarier - than fiction. 

Pajka’s storytelling kept me captivated night after night. She brings history to life just like reenactors at Old City Cemetery in Lynchburg, where performers share the stories of those who rest there. As you wander among the gravestones, you can almost hear the whispers from the past. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, this book inspires you to visit these renowned sites and explore them on your own.

While I would have loved to see maps and actual newspaper clippings of the stories, the book’s rich research, evocative images, and ghostly encounters more than made up for it. This book is the perfect companion for this spooky season. I rate it 4.7/5. Pajka’s passion for history and hauntings shines through every page. She has two other books available and one she is currently working on—I’ll be adding them to my TBR!

IN CONCLUSION, READ THE FRACKING BOOK!

I received this book from Arcadia Publishing in exchange for an honest review. 

If you enjoyed this review, don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share with your fellow book lovers. Your support keeps our reading community alive (and maybe a little haunted)!

Up Next: Haunted Southwest Florida by Christopher Balzano 

The Haunted Guide to New Orleans: Ghosts, Vampires, & Voodoo Protection by Rory O’Neill Schmitt, PhD, & Rosary O’ Neill, PhD

Review by: Samantha M. Siciliano

Welcome to my review! If you enjoy this piece, please consider following (the blue button to the right), subscribing for updates, and sharing with friends or on social media. Your support helps grow our reading community. I love hearing your thoughts—feel free to leave a comment below!

Thank you for reading, sharing, and becoming a part of this reading community!

Quick Summary:

Looking for a quick, spooky read this season? Planning a trip to New Orleans and curious about where to find the local haunts? The Haunted Guide to New Orleans offers a glimpse into the city’s paranormal folklore, including ghosts, vampires, and Voodoo traditions.

The Review:

This book is a treasure trove for anyone curious about New Orleans’ supernatural side. While it primarily focuses on ghosts, there are dedicated chapters for vampires and Voodoo as well. 

Two stories especially lingered with me after finishing the book.

First, Madame LaLaurie’s house stands out as both fascinating and disturbing. My interest in her story began with American Horror Story, which introduced me to both Marie Laveau and Madame LaLaurie. The cruelty inflicted on so many is unimaginable- truly nightmare fuel. I was surprised to learn the house is now owned by a ghost entertainment company. They paid HALF of what it is worth due to its haunted reputation. At 10,000 square feet, the logistics of maintaining such a place is staggering.

Another memorable tale is that of Pierre Jourdan at Muriel’s. According to the book, a psychic once communicated with his spirit to resolve his rageful outbursts. The solution? Reserving a table for him and his guest, complete with bread and wine. The staff continues this ritual daily, and his temper remains in check—unless they forget!

The book is filled with similar stories about ghostly interactions and even offers practical tips for those wanting to experience New Orleans like a local, including recommendations on where to eat and what to order. 

However, the writing style didn’t fully resonate with me. The authors’ approach, which may echo their grandmother’s storytelling, includes frequent questions and imagined scenarios that sometimes distracted from the ghost stories, historical details, and factual information that I was more interested in. While the book covers a wide range of places and ghosts, I found myself wishing for more depth in the history of the locations and the personal stories of the ghosts.

Overall, The Haunted Guide to New Orleans is creatively written and well-researched—a decent choice for a quick, seasonal read. I rate it 3 out of 5 stars. If you’re intrigued by New Orleans’ haunted history, give this book a try!

IN CONCLUSION, MAYBE READ THE FRACKING BOOK!

I received this book from Arcadia Publishing in exchange for an honest review. 

Up Next: Haunted Virginia Cemeteries by Sharon Pajka