Amazing Editorial Review

A fantastic and compelling editorial review of my new release, Relics of Life, by N.N. Light Book’s Heaven!

Relics of Life is a haunting and thought-provoking dystopian novel by Dorothea Anna that immerses readers in a world on the brink of extinction. Set during a cataclysmic third world war, it follows two Russian monks, Sergius and Herman, on a desperate mission to find holy relics believed to hold the key to saving humanity. Their journey leads them to Fairview, Virginia, where they meet Stephanie, a quiet but devout woman whose family and town are crumbling under the weight of crime and oppression.

The characters in Relics of Life are deeply compelling. Stephanie, the introspective protagonist, is relatable and resilient. However, my favorite character was her feisty mother, who brings grit and humor to the narrative. The authentic family dynamics add a personal layer to the story’s larger stakes, making their struggle all the more engaging. And as a dog lover, I can’t forget to mention Hobo, Stephanie’s adorable dog, who adds warmth and light in a world overshadowed by fear.

What makes this book especially gripping is its unsettling vision of the future, which feels alarmingly close to our own reality. The depiction of a police state, omnipresent surveillance, and constant drone activity is both terrifying and believable. There were moments when I found myself glancing out of my own window, unnerved by how plausible this future seemed. It serves as a chilling reminder of where we could be headed.

Faith plays a significant role in the story, offering both the characters and readers a sense of hope amidst the darkness. Religion is seamlessly woven into the narrative, becoming an integral part of the characters’ journey. This element adds depth to the story, making it particularly meaningful for readers who appreciate spiritual themes in their fiction.

Ultimately, Relics of Life balances the fear of an impending dystopia with the comforting reminder of humanity’s capacity for hope and redemption. It’s a book that lingers long after the last page, challenging you to reflect on the power of belief in times of crisis.

My Rating: 5 stars

Out Today!

Relics of Life is out today! Pick up your copy via Amazon, B&N, or other online retailers!

You can also buy my book directly from my printing company via this link: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084…

Blurb:

The world is on fire.

Amid the eruption of a cataclysmic third world war, monks Sergius and Herman are sent from Russia to Virginia to find holy relics believed vital to humanity in a time when life is on the cusp of extinction.

Quiet introvert Stephanie and her family live in Fairview, Virginia, a town like most in America, hollowed out by crime and oppression, that’s tearing Stephanie’s family apart.

When the monks’ journey takes them to Fairview, they meet Stephanie at the last remaining church in town. Their collective prayers and the holy relics may be the only things that can save themselves and the world.

I’m Losing!

A few days ago, I weighed myself. If I were to count when my weight was the heaviest, that would’ve been a couple of years ago, I have lost 20 lbs! All having to do with eating healthy fats, high protein (good organic, grass-fed and finished red meat, chicken, salmon, etc.), and low carbs.

I allow myself up to 4 slices of bread a day. I learned what that equals when my doctor had me on my hypoglycemic diet in my early twenties. I allow myself an extra slice of bread a day though. It works for me. Back then, this diet was a strict one allowing only 3 slices of bread a day for three years.

A slice of bread is equal to a 1/2 cup of rice, 1/2 cup of noodles/pasta, 1/2 cup of potatoes, same measurements for peas, carrots, and certain beans like pinto beans.

I could eat all the nuts I wanted. At that time, I didn’t like nuts, so it wasn’t really a big deal to me. lol But now, I eat a bit of them with my organic, whole milk Greek plain yogurt with added organic fresh blueberries. I eat 2-3 fruits a day on average, just like I used to do on that strict diet, except it allowed 3 fruits a day. And the only sugar I have other than the fruit is a 1/2 tsp of raw local honey when I sometimes have tea or coffee.

I cut out 100% fruit juice back in 2019 because I was having some stomach issues, and my doctor suggested I eliminate the juice from my diet. Didn’t think I could or had the will power to do this because I was a juiceaholic throughout my childhood and beginning twenties. Was a sugarholic too.

But I only eat desserts on special occasions, the last one being I allowed myself a small slice of cheese cake and three bites of key lime pie while on vacation back in July. Haven’t had any desserts since then and am happy I don’t crave it! Thinking the fruit is filling the void!

For veggies (which is my hardest thing to consume for me all my life lol) I like to have Greek salads and other salads. Broccoli, sour kraut, and some cabbage dishes.

I’ve heard that a woman’s taste buds change during menopause, and for me, it has. I now love fresh medium sized cut mushrooms in my sauces I’ve been cooking.

Anyway, I’ve noticed a difference when walking. My body feels lighter, and it’s easier to stand up straight (part of the latter’s reason is my chiropractic adjustment last week lol).

I’m now at a weight I haven’t seen since I was in my early to mid twenties, before becoming pregnant with Niko, my firstborn! This may be TMI, but I’m happy to have gone down two sizes in the bust area. Never thought I’d be back to my regular size when I was in my twenties. Never thought this would ever happen! So thrilled! My back feels a bit of relief too. 🙂

Wow. What an accomplishment. And I feel quite good. I also do a bit of walking on my treadmill at least three times a week. I’d like to do four days a week, and sometimes I do. But at least I stretch every day.

It looks like I may actually have to buy some clothes that fit me better now. In a time of menopause when a woman on average gains ten pounds that are hard to get rid of, I’ve accomplished this and then some! Amazing times for me. 🙏🙌🥹