For women torn between shopping and budgeting, Lisa Serwin shares fun and creative money management tips in So Many Shoes, So Little Money: A Girl's Guide to Finance ( publisher Booksurge, 2009, ISBN: 9781439231214)
“Dressing with style takes patience, planning, and strategy. So does managing your money”, Serwin explains in the preface. There’s a pop quiz included that proves it’s not necessary to be a math whiz in order to learn how to create a plan, stick to goals and manage money.
Lisa Serwin includes but goes beyond the wise advice to use credit cards in moderation. She does this by providing easy to follow steps that teach how to save money while still having some leftover for fun.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
The Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
The Year of The Flood contains a dark warning of what the future may become if people continue to destroy the earth with greed and put corporations first.
The flood in The Year of the Flood is a “waterless flood” or a deadly disease that wipes out the majority of people. The few that survive were just lucky that they happened to be protected at the time.
Environmentalists in The Year of the Flood
Most of the survivors in The Year of the Flood are or become “God’s Gardeners” which is sort of a hippy cult. They’re vegetarian, gorilla gardeners and they only use found or handmade items. There are existing similarities to these environmentalists in groups like the Freegans and Food Not Bombs.
Read more at Suite101: The Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
The flood in The Year of the Flood is a “waterless flood” or a deadly disease that wipes out the majority of people. The few that survive were just lucky that they happened to be protected at the time.
Environmentalists in The Year of the Flood
Most of the survivors in The Year of the Flood are or become “God’s Gardeners” which is sort of a hippy cult. They’re vegetarian, gorilla gardeners and they only use found or handmade items. There are existing similarities to these environmentalists in groups like the Freegans and Food Not Bombs.
Read more at Suite101: The Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
Sunday, June 27, 2010
The Power of Premonitions: How Knowing The Future Can Shape Our Lives by Larry Dossey, M.D.
The Power Of Premonitions: How Knowing The Future Can Shape Our Lives is a fascinating and educational book about premonitions. It’s quite detailed and must have involved a lot of research.
Premonitions Defined
A premonition is simply a forewarning of something that will happen in the future. It may come as a feeling, hunch or vision in a dream.
Larry Dossey shares his own experiences with precognitive dreams and how he came to the conclusion that they were more than mere coincidences. He acknowledges that everyone doesn’t agree that premonitions are facts. He also cautions others not to confide to people who might think they’re crazy.
Read more at Suite101: Review of The Power of Premonitions: How Knowing The Future Can Shape Our Lives by Larry Dossey, M.D.
Premonitions Defined
A premonition is simply a forewarning of something that will happen in the future. It may come as a feeling, hunch or vision in a dream.
Larry Dossey shares his own experiences with precognitive dreams and how he came to the conclusion that they were more than mere coincidences. He acknowledges that everyone doesn’t agree that premonitions are facts. He also cautions others not to confide to people who might think they’re crazy.
Read more at Suite101: Review of The Power of Premonitions: How Knowing The Future Can Shape Our Lives by Larry Dossey, M.D.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Living A Charmed Life by Victoria Moran
From going green gracefully to starting a serendipity log, Victoria shares unique and uplifting ideas to jump-start the magic that may be missing in life.
Living A Charmed Life is an uplifting and empowering book, because it encourages people to take control of their lives so they can create their own magic. Victoria’s appealing down to earth style discourages limits and embraces opportunities for anyone at any age.
Living A Charmed Life: Your Guide to Finding Magic in Every Moment of Every Day (Victoria Moran, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009, ISBN: 9780061649899) is directed at women, but there’s wise advice contained in the book for everyone.
Law of Expectation
The law of expectation is similar to the law of attraction. You get what you expect, so it’s a good idea to expect the best. For example a mother whose young son is in the hospital may say, “Johnny won’t eat that.” A jolly nurse pops in and plays airplane with his food while talking about how yummy it is. Johnny eats it all up, because it’s expected.
Read more at Suite101: Living a Charmed Life by Victoria Moran: Guide to Finding Magic in Every Moment
Living A Charmed Life is an uplifting and empowering book, because it encourages people to take control of their lives so they can create their own magic. Victoria’s appealing down to earth style discourages limits and embraces opportunities for anyone at any age.
Living A Charmed Life: Your Guide to Finding Magic in Every Moment of Every Day (Victoria Moran, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009, ISBN: 9780061649899) is directed at women, but there’s wise advice contained in the book for everyone.
Law of Expectation
The law of expectation is similar to the law of attraction. You get what you expect, so it’s a good idea to expect the best. For example a mother whose young son is in the hospital may say, “Johnny won’t eat that.” A jolly nurse pops in and plays airplane with his food while talking about how yummy it is. Johnny eats it all up, because it’s expected.
Read more at Suite101: Living a Charmed Life by Victoria Moran: Guide to Finding Magic in Every Moment
Friday, June 4, 2010
The Book Of Negroes
The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill begins with slavers capturing 11 year old protagonist Amanita Diallo from a small village in West Africa. She works as a slave on an indigo plantation in South Carolina, where she bonds with a motherly woman named Georgia who teaches and protects her. Aminata then reunites with an old friend, which helps add romance to the story.
Read more at Suite101: The Book Of Negroes by Lawrence Hill
Read more at Suite101: The Book Of Negroes by Lawrence Hill
Monday, May 10, 2010
Don't Call Me a Crook! by Bob Moore
Don't Call Me a Crook is at times amusing but at others disturbing. It does offer the rare opportunity of delving into a rogue's travels and view of the world.
Bob Moore was a survivor who kept cool under pressure, trusted his instincts and was extremely resourceful. He was also a funny Scotsman without intending to be and an excellent storyteller.
On the down side, Bob Moore was a liar, thief, racist, drunkard and murderer, with little to no remorse for those that he harmed. He seemed to think he was superior, even when he was scruffy and out of work. He referred to any race different from his own with a derogatory slang term. In the 20’s and 30’s this was more common, but that doesn’t excuse it.
Bob’s Crimes
If his slang gets confusing in Don’t Call Me A Crook! (Bob Moore, Dissident Books, ISBN: 9780977378807, 2009) there are handy footnotes with definitions included. It seems more authentic to keep the original written words intact anyway, and it made for a fascinating tale of a rogue who seemed slightly psychotic. It was originally published in 1935 without much fanfare and only recently was republished.
Death didn’t faze him and even when his hand caused the death, he brushed it off casually or excused it. He refused to admit that he was a crook (hence the name Don’t Call Me a Crook!) or thief and refers to stealing as swiping, as if that’s somehow better.
In between jobs he did a lot of stealing and conning, so the places he could travel became limited since victims of theft or police were after him everywhere. Anyone with money, jewelry or booze was a target to Bob. He still certainly made his rounds by traveling all over the world on ships. His escapades in England, China and the U.S. were particularly of interest.
Bob Moore and Women
There were several women he led on and charmed out of their money and he didn’t think twice about ripping off a boss on his way out the door. He would occasionally do favors for friends, but there was almost always something in it for him. That’s not to say he never had any sympathy for anyone, but he tended to favor drinking buddies with money.
At one point he did bow to family pressure and made an attempt at settling down and marrying in Glasgow. Since Bob seemed incapable of staying in one place or job too long, this didn’t work out.
He describes his travels, experiences and associates so well that they’re easy to envision. An engineer by trade, Bob Moore had no problem getting jobs on yachts or ships. These were full of adventures including rowdy parties, pirate shootouts, fistfights and drowning. How anyone ever managed to survive this lifestyle full of danger, diseases and violence is a mystery. Whether everything Bob wrote is true or not is another mystery.
On the down side, Bob Moore was a liar, thief, racist, drunkard and murderer, with little to no remorse for those that he harmed. He seemed to think he was superior, even when he was scruffy and out of work. He referred to any race different from his own with a derogatory slang term. In the 20’s and 30’s this was more common, but that doesn’t excuse it.
Bob’s Crimes
If his slang gets confusing in Don’t Call Me A Crook! (Bob Moore, Dissident Books, ISBN: 9780977378807, 2009) there are handy footnotes with definitions included. It seems more authentic to keep the original written words intact anyway, and it made for a fascinating tale of a rogue who seemed slightly psychotic. It was originally published in 1935 without much fanfare and only recently was republished.
Death didn’t faze him and even when his hand caused the death, he brushed it off casually or excused it. He refused to admit that he was a crook (hence the name Don’t Call Me a Crook!) or thief and refers to stealing as swiping, as if that’s somehow better.
In between jobs he did a lot of stealing and conning, so the places he could travel became limited since victims of theft or police were after him everywhere. Anyone with money, jewelry or booze was a target to Bob. He still certainly made his rounds by traveling all over the world on ships. His escapades in England, China and the U.S. were particularly of interest.
Bob Moore and Women
There were several women he led on and charmed out of their money and he didn’t think twice about ripping off a boss on his way out the door. He would occasionally do favors for friends, but there was almost always something in it for him. That’s not to say he never had any sympathy for anyone, but he tended to favor drinking buddies with money.
At one point he did bow to family pressure and made an attempt at settling down and marrying in Glasgow. Since Bob seemed incapable of staying in one place or job too long, this didn’t work out.
He describes his travels, experiences and associates so well that they’re easy to envision. An engineer by trade, Bob Moore had no problem getting jobs on yachts or ships. These were full of adventures including rowdy parties, pirate shootouts, fistfights and drowning. How anyone ever managed to survive this lifestyle full of danger, diseases and violence is a mystery. Whether everything Bob wrote is true or not is another mystery.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Dark Side of the Light Chasers by Debbie Ford
This book may help avoid years of therapy. Repressed memories, feelings and hidden aspects of individuals come to light with shadow work.
If negative aspects aren’t brought out into the open, they may become internalized and manifest themselves in addictions, depression or other illnesses.
Acknowledging and examining the dark side isn’t easy, but The Dark Side of the Light Chasers shows how to embrace the shadow so that it becomes integrated with other aspects of the personality.
Debbie helps make it real by bravely sharing personal information about her past struggles with addiction and anger. The Dark Side of the Light Chasers is based upon ideas she developed for a course to help embrace the shadow.
Projection
Qualities that might drive someone crazy are usually those that others see and hate in them. These negative qualities are mirrored back to reflect and project onto someone else. Once that’s acknowledged, it’s easier to completely accept and forgive the self along with everyone else.
When people can accept themselves, they no longer need to judge others. There is a freedom in embracing the shadow and when people stop finger pointing, it makes them easier to get along with.
Gifts in Hated Qualities
There are gifts in many qualities individuals may hate in themselves. For example “cheap” becomes thrifty and practical. Aggressive may become persistent and insistent. The Dark Side of the Light Chasers encourages people to list these qualities and find their hidden gifts so that they become easier to accept and integrate into the whole person.
Inventing New Interpretations
Instead of forgetting about the past, Ford encourages people to reinvent thoughts surrounding past incidents. Thoughts are something everyone can learn to control, so it becomes empowering to take responsibility for thoughts about individual memories.
Acknowledge Our Greatness
People are often told not to toot their own horn, so they may be uncomfortable embracing the great things about themselves. Debbie Ford also shows others how to embrace the good and let their light shine.
About Debbie Ford
Debbie Ford is a popular speaker, coach and best-selling author. She runs a workshop entitled “The Shadow Process Workshop”. She’s been a guest on many radio and television programs including Oprah, Good Morning America and Larry King Live. For more information about her books or upcoming workshop topics see DebbieFord.com
If negative aspects aren’t brought out into the open, they may become internalized and manifest themselves in addictions, depression or other illnesses.
Acknowledging and examining the dark side isn’t easy, but The Dark Side of the Light Chasers shows how to embrace the shadow so that it becomes integrated with other aspects of the personality.
Debbie helps make it real by bravely sharing personal information about her past struggles with addiction and anger. The Dark Side of the Light Chasers is based upon ideas she developed for a course to help embrace the shadow.
Projection
Qualities that might drive someone crazy are usually those that others see and hate in them. These negative qualities are mirrored back to reflect and project onto someone else. Once that’s acknowledged, it’s easier to completely accept and forgive the self along with everyone else.
When people can accept themselves, they no longer need to judge others. There is a freedom in embracing the shadow and when people stop finger pointing, it makes them easier to get along with.
Gifts in Hated Qualities
There are gifts in many qualities individuals may hate in themselves. For example “cheap” becomes thrifty and practical. Aggressive may become persistent and insistent. The Dark Side of the Light Chasers encourages people to list these qualities and find their hidden gifts so that they become easier to accept and integrate into the whole person.
Inventing New Interpretations
Instead of forgetting about the past, Ford encourages people to reinvent thoughts surrounding past incidents. Thoughts are something everyone can learn to control, so it becomes empowering to take responsibility for thoughts about individual memories.
Acknowledge Our Greatness
People are often told not to toot their own horn, so they may be uncomfortable embracing the great things about themselves. Debbie Ford also shows others how to embrace the good and let their light shine.
- There are effective exercises in The Dark Side of the Light Chasers: Reclaiming Your Power, Creativity, Brilliance, And Dreams (Debbie Ford, Berkley Publishing Group, 1998, ISBN: 1573220965) that help people to break down their walls and embrace their shadows. At the end there’s an important helpful chapter that shows how to create a mission statement and action plan for the future.
About Debbie Ford
Debbie Ford is a popular speaker, coach and best-selling author. She runs a workshop entitled “The Shadow Process Workshop”. She’s been a guest on many radio and television programs including Oprah, Good Morning America and Larry King Live. For more information about her books or upcoming workshop topics see DebbieFord.com
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Introvert Power by Laurie Helgoe
Instead of teaching people how to be extroverted, Helgoe shows others how to embrace their introverted nature and see it as an asset. This is a refreshing change from other books that hint that there’s something wrong with wanting to be alone.
Laurie Helgoe assures others in Introvert Power that it’s okay to refuse a party without excuses or explanations. When introverts do decide to attend, she has great suggestions on how to deal with crowds. Other options are to say no, go to a more intimate gathering or stay home and read a book without apologizing for it.
Introvert Statistics
According to Laurie's research in Introvert Power, introverts make up 57% of the population. Since extroverts are more visible and valued in America, there does appear to be more of them. Everyone has a balance of both but they may not admit to being more introverted if they think being extroverted is more desirable. Laurie Helgoe explains other reasons why commonly quoted statistics are outdated in Introvert Power.
Introvert Stereotypes
Introvert Power (Sourcebooks, 2008, ISBN: 9781402211171) is an educational book for introverts and extroverts alike. It examines stereotypes people may have about introverts. Some might be that introverts are anti-social, snobs or even mentally ill. There are extroverts that exhibit poor social skills and there are introverts that exhibit leadership qualities. Pegging one side with only negative qualities does a disservice to both.
Introverted Children
Not all children thrive with constant structured or scheduled activities. To encourage independence and creativity, it’s a good idea to allow time for solitary activities. That time away from noise and bustling is especially important for introverted children. Introvert Power offers ideas about how to support children overwhelmed with noisy classrooms or activities.
Differences Between Introverts and Extroverts
There are often misunderstandings between the two because introverts need time alone to gain energy, while extroverts need to be around people to recharge. Parties aren’t fun for everyone, nor is being popular or becoming extroverted always the goal. These are some of the extrovert assumptions Laurie addresses in Introvert Power. There are benefits to being introverted or extroverted and she helps points those out.
Introvert Power is one of the most enlightening and informative books about celebrating, understanding and embracing introverts. Laurie Helgoe also shares useful strategies on how to cope with challenges many introverts face and how to see strength in their solitude.
About Laurie Helgoe
Laurie is a psychologist, writer, actor and model. She has written four other books and also runs a design consultation service called INtrovert Style. For more information see her website WakingDesire.com
Laurie Helgoe assures others in Introvert Power that it’s okay to refuse a party without excuses or explanations. When introverts do decide to attend, she has great suggestions on how to deal with crowds. Other options are to say no, go to a more intimate gathering or stay home and read a book without apologizing for it.
Introvert Statistics
According to Laurie's research in Introvert Power, introverts make up 57% of the population. Since extroverts are more visible and valued in America, there does appear to be more of them. Everyone has a balance of both but they may not admit to being more introverted if they think being extroverted is more desirable. Laurie Helgoe explains other reasons why commonly quoted statistics are outdated in Introvert Power.
Introvert Stereotypes
Introvert Power (Sourcebooks, 2008, ISBN: 9781402211171) is an educational book for introverts and extroverts alike. It examines stereotypes people may have about introverts. Some might be that introverts are anti-social, snobs or even mentally ill. There are extroverts that exhibit poor social skills and there are introverts that exhibit leadership qualities. Pegging one side with only negative qualities does a disservice to both.
Introverted Children
Not all children thrive with constant structured or scheduled activities. To encourage independence and creativity, it’s a good idea to allow time for solitary activities. That time away from noise and bustling is especially important for introverted children. Introvert Power offers ideas about how to support children overwhelmed with noisy classrooms or activities.
Differences Between Introverts and Extroverts
There are often misunderstandings between the two because introverts need time alone to gain energy, while extroverts need to be around people to recharge. Parties aren’t fun for everyone, nor is being popular or becoming extroverted always the goal. These are some of the extrovert assumptions Laurie addresses in Introvert Power. There are benefits to being introverted or extroverted and she helps points those out.
Introvert Power is one of the most enlightening and informative books about celebrating, understanding and embracing introverts. Laurie Helgoe also shares useful strategies on how to cope with challenges many introverts face and how to see strength in their solitude.
About Laurie Helgoe
Laurie is a psychologist, writer, actor and model. She has written four other books and also runs a design consultation service called INtrovert Style. For more information see her website WakingDesire.com
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Real-Life Guide to Diabetes
Real-Life Guide to Diabetes by Hope S. Warshaw and Joy Pape (American Diabetes Association, 2009, ISBN: 9781580403146), is full of information suitable for those newly diagnosed with diabetes, or for people looking for updated medical information and dietary advice.
Each chapter is split up into easy to read chunks. There are myths and facts listed, questions commonly asked about diabetes, definitions, statistics, red flags and tips and tactics. The fonts are larger than the average book, which is also a bonus.
Diabetes Prevention and Management
Type 2 is the most common type of diabetes. One of the main reasons type 2 cases are rising is because the number of obese people is increasing. According to Real-Life Guide to Diabetes, if people eat healthier, become more active and lose 5 to 7% of their body weight, they can prevent or prolong the likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes. If they have already developed it, the suggested steps are still helpful with managing diabetes. Extensive information about type 1 diabetes is also included.
Lifestyle Changes and Healthy Eating
Chapter 4 and 5 and 6 offer important information on behavioral changes and instructions on how to eat healthier. Lifestyle changes are difficult, especially if negative patterns have been followed for years. There’s interesting and useful information about behavior change theories that will aid in the transition. It's valuable for anyone but particularly helpful for diabetics trying to make major changes.
For meal planning, there are some simple portion control tools and methods to follow that are helpful. Suggestions on what types of food to eat are offered along with information on carbohydrates, fiber, protein, fat and salt. There’s a quick formula to calculate what an individual’s energy needs are and how many calories they would need depending on their level of activity.
Important information about food label’s nutrition facts is also included. One of the reasons it’s important is because the portion size is clarified. Portions given on food labels are often smaller than what a person actually ingests, so when tracking calories, carbs, sodium, sugars or fat intake, calculations may need to be doubled.
Other chapters focus on the importance of physical activity with diabetes, medications that lower blood glucose, alternative methods, stress and depression, monitoring glucose and blood pressure, losing weight, managing diabetes when on vacation or off schedule and sexual health.
It’s an extremely detailed yet straightforward book that could be used as an ongoing reference for anyone who has diabetes or is interested in it. The great thing about the Real-Life Guide to Diabetes is that it is flexible so it offers solutions that are realistic for everyone.
About Hope Warshaw and Joy Pape
Hope Warshaw has 30 years experience as an author and is also a dietitian and diabetes educator. She’s the contributing editor for Diabetic Living and she continues to volunteer to help others with diabetes. Other books Hope has authored include Guide to Healthy Restaurant Eating, Complete Guide to Carb Counting and Diabetes Meal Planning Made Easy.
Joy Pape is a certified diabetes nurse educator and certified foot care nurse. She has personal experience because diabetes has been in her family for generations. After she was diagnosed with pre-diabetes, she lost 60 pounds and has kept it off for 20 years. Joy also has over 30 years of experience in the health care field.
Each chapter is split up into easy to read chunks. There are myths and facts listed, questions commonly asked about diabetes, definitions, statistics, red flags and tips and tactics. The fonts are larger than the average book, which is also a bonus.
Diabetes Prevention and Management
Type 2 is the most common type of diabetes. One of the main reasons type 2 cases are rising is because the number of obese people is increasing. According to Real-Life Guide to Diabetes, if people eat healthier, become more active and lose 5 to 7% of their body weight, they can prevent or prolong the likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes. If they have already developed it, the suggested steps are still helpful with managing diabetes. Extensive information about type 1 diabetes is also included.
- Chapter 2 focuses on “knowing and controlling your ABCs”. This includes information about how to understand blood glucose numbers and the importance of recording and monitoring it.
- Chapter 3 stresses the importance of obtaining a positive support system. This includes health care providers, family, friends, support groups and members of your community.
Lifestyle Changes and Healthy Eating
Chapter 4 and 5 and 6 offer important information on behavioral changes and instructions on how to eat healthier. Lifestyle changes are difficult, especially if negative patterns have been followed for years. There’s interesting and useful information about behavior change theories that will aid in the transition. It's valuable for anyone but particularly helpful for diabetics trying to make major changes.
For meal planning, there are some simple portion control tools and methods to follow that are helpful. Suggestions on what types of food to eat are offered along with information on carbohydrates, fiber, protein, fat and salt. There’s a quick formula to calculate what an individual’s energy needs are and how many calories they would need depending on their level of activity.
Important information about food label’s nutrition facts is also included. One of the reasons it’s important is because the portion size is clarified. Portions given on food labels are often smaller than what a person actually ingests, so when tracking calories, carbs, sodium, sugars or fat intake, calculations may need to be doubled.
Other chapters focus on the importance of physical activity with diabetes, medications that lower blood glucose, alternative methods, stress and depression, monitoring glucose and blood pressure, losing weight, managing diabetes when on vacation or off schedule and sexual health.
It’s an extremely detailed yet straightforward book that could be used as an ongoing reference for anyone who has diabetes or is interested in it. The great thing about the Real-Life Guide to Diabetes is that it is flexible so it offers solutions that are realistic for everyone.
About Hope Warshaw and Joy Pape
Hope Warshaw has 30 years experience as an author and is also a dietitian and diabetes educator. She’s the contributing editor for Diabetic Living and she continues to volunteer to help others with diabetes. Other books Hope has authored include Guide to Healthy Restaurant Eating, Complete Guide to Carb Counting and Diabetes Meal Planning Made Easy.
Joy Pape is a certified diabetes nurse educator and certified foot care nurse. She has personal experience because diabetes has been in her family for generations. After she was diagnosed with pre-diabetes, she lost 60 pounds and has kept it off for 20 years. Joy also has over 30 years of experience in the health care field.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Sea Changes by Gail Graham
Sea Changes revolves around the character Sarah Andrews who is lonely in Australia and still grieving her dead husband.
Sarah sees a psychologist but doesn’t feel that he fully understands. She didn't socialize much outside of her husband so has trouble adjusting to the culture in Australia. Her daughter decides her mother has mourned long enough and pushes her to move on with her life.
Underwater World
She stumbles across a fascinating parallel world in the sea where she feels loved, accepted and at peace. Sarah's original plan was to commit suicide but instead she decides to help her new friends. What’s real and what’s fantasy becomes clouded, especially when she begins to confide in her psychologist.
Suspense, Mystery and Murder
A missing celebrity who happens to look like one of her new friends from the sea adds to the mystery. This complicates her quiet life, as she becomes the prime suspect, which leads her to feel more misunderstood and abandoned. Her own family becomes distant and she can no longer trust her psychologist.
Sarah finally starts to put herself first and is surprised at her new found strength and independence. Eventually, she finds herself cornered and is forced to choose between the two worlds. Should she feel obligated to the family that she has left and her husband’s memory or embrace the love and friendship she has found with a new man?
Although Sarah could be a depressing sort of character, Gail Graham has created her as an adventurous widowed woman who still sees the humor in things. She has also experienced the loss of her own husband and child and is able to describe the grief very accurately.
Sea Changes (Jade Phoenix Publishing, May 2009, ISBN: 9780692001004), comes alive with so many exciting twists and turns that it becomes impossible to put down. Gail Graham manages to maintain the suspense throughout the novel and the realistic details make this unlikely story believable.
Mourning and New Hope
Although it’s an entertaining fantasy, Sea Changes is also an emotional journey that offers hope to others in mourning. Things can never be the same after losing a spouse, but eventually other reasons to live provide opportunities and offer enough strength to continue. This is an excellent book to recommend to anyone grieving or facing depression because it offers hope that eventually, things do get better.
Sarah sees a psychologist but doesn’t feel that he fully understands. She didn't socialize much outside of her husband so has trouble adjusting to the culture in Australia. Her daughter decides her mother has mourned long enough and pushes her to move on with her life.
Underwater World
She stumbles across a fascinating parallel world in the sea where she feels loved, accepted and at peace. Sarah's original plan was to commit suicide but instead she decides to help her new friends. What’s real and what’s fantasy becomes clouded, especially when she begins to confide in her psychologist.
Suspense, Mystery and Murder
A missing celebrity who happens to look like one of her new friends from the sea adds to the mystery. This complicates her quiet life, as she becomes the prime suspect, which leads her to feel more misunderstood and abandoned. Her own family becomes distant and she can no longer trust her psychologist.
Sarah finally starts to put herself first and is surprised at her new found strength and independence. Eventually, she finds herself cornered and is forced to choose between the two worlds. Should she feel obligated to the family that she has left and her husband’s memory or embrace the love and friendship she has found with a new man?
Although Sarah could be a depressing sort of character, Gail Graham has created her as an adventurous widowed woman who still sees the humor in things. She has also experienced the loss of her own husband and child and is able to describe the grief very accurately.
Sea Changes (Jade Phoenix Publishing, May 2009, ISBN: 9780692001004), comes alive with so many exciting twists and turns that it becomes impossible to put down. Gail Graham manages to maintain the suspense throughout the novel and the realistic details make this unlikely story believable.
Mourning and New Hope
Although it’s an entertaining fantasy, Sea Changes is also an emotional journey that offers hope to others in mourning. Things can never be the same after losing a spouse, but eventually other reasons to live provide opportunities and offer enough strength to continue. This is an excellent book to recommend to anyone grieving or facing depression because it offers hope that eventually, things do get better.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Writing Romance by Vanessa Grant
Vanessa Grant gives detailed and practical advice on how to write a successful romance novel in Writing Romance, Self-Counsel Press,1997-2007.
Subjects covered in Writing Romance include the business of beginning the story, creating conflict, pacing, revision, finding a publisher and preparing for the marketplace. Over half of the fiction books sold in the world are romance, so there’s a huge market for them.
Romance Subgenres
Most novels contain some romance, so Writing Romance would be helpful for almost any author beginning their novel. It makes sense for authors to write about what they enjoy because it will come easier and the story will be better because of it.
There are some excellent notes on writing suspense, paranormal and science fiction along with romance.
A whole chapter is devoted to suspense including the rules and how to keep things unpredictable. It’s important to keep the outcome hidden. Anyone who has read a book where they could predict what was going to happen next knows that doesn’t make for a fun read.
Archetypes
Writers often use common archetypes without even thinking about them but it’s interesting to break them down into recognizable categories. A couple of the familiar standbys are the virginal heroine and the Alpha hero. To keep things interesting it would be wise to throw in a wild woman or passionate artist.
The setting can be a simple background or the main focus in the story. It depends on how strongly the setting influences the characters. Guidelines on how to create a strong descriptive setting authentically are included even if you’ve never been there.
Plot and Conflict
While the plot is important, without strong characters and conflicts there won’t be much life in the romance novel. Helping the reader get attached to characters makes the story better because they will sympathize when they have huge problems. Victory at the end will also be much sweeter because the reader cares about the people in the story.
Brainstorming with a series of questions is one of the techniques used to flesh out characters. As the questions continue, they get harder so more bizarre or interesting scenarios and characters are created.
Controversial Issues
In some cases experiences with such things as alcoholism, mental illness and/or dysfunctional families become beneficial to the writer because they can relate to those issues easier. For alternative lifestyles, occupations or diseases that there are no experiences with, Vanessa Grant shares how to go about researching them.
About Vanessa Grant
Vanessa Grant is a popular romance writer who has authored 30 books and successfully sold over 10 million romance novels. She runs workshops on romance writing and offers online seminars and courses.
The CD-ROM included with Writing Romance is full of writing resources. These include templates for writing the book, an eight part seminar on writing romance, and links to publishers and market information.
Writing Romance is a fantastic step-by-step guide for learning how to write a successful romance novel. Also included are two of Vanessa Grant's novels Taking Chances and Yesterday’s Vows in eBook format. To explore more of Vanessa’s writing resources like her workshops or online courses see VanessaGrant.ca.
Subjects covered in Writing Romance include the business of beginning the story, creating conflict, pacing, revision, finding a publisher and preparing for the marketplace. Over half of the fiction books sold in the world are romance, so there’s a huge market for them.
Romance Subgenres
Most novels contain some romance, so Writing Romance would be helpful for almost any author beginning their novel. It makes sense for authors to write about what they enjoy because it will come easier and the story will be better because of it.
There are some excellent notes on writing suspense, paranormal and science fiction along with romance.
A whole chapter is devoted to suspense including the rules and how to keep things unpredictable. It’s important to keep the outcome hidden. Anyone who has read a book where they could predict what was going to happen next knows that doesn’t make for a fun read.
Archetypes
Writers often use common archetypes without even thinking about them but it’s interesting to break them down into recognizable categories. A couple of the familiar standbys are the virginal heroine and the Alpha hero. To keep things interesting it would be wise to throw in a wild woman or passionate artist.
The setting can be a simple background or the main focus in the story. It depends on how strongly the setting influences the characters. Guidelines on how to create a strong descriptive setting authentically are included even if you’ve never been there.
Plot and Conflict
While the plot is important, without strong characters and conflicts there won’t be much life in the romance novel. Helping the reader get attached to characters makes the story better because they will sympathize when they have huge problems. Victory at the end will also be much sweeter because the reader cares about the people in the story.
Brainstorming with a series of questions is one of the techniques used to flesh out characters. As the questions continue, they get harder so more bizarre or interesting scenarios and characters are created.
Controversial Issues
In some cases experiences with such things as alcoholism, mental illness and/or dysfunctional families become beneficial to the writer because they can relate to those issues easier. For alternative lifestyles, occupations or diseases that there are no experiences with, Vanessa Grant shares how to go about researching them.
About Vanessa Grant
Vanessa Grant is a popular romance writer who has authored 30 books and successfully sold over 10 million romance novels. She runs workshops on romance writing and offers online seminars and courses.
The CD-ROM included with Writing Romance is full of writing resources. These include templates for writing the book, an eight part seminar on writing romance, and links to publishers and market information.
Writing Romance is a fantastic step-by-step guide for learning how to write a successful romance novel. Also included are two of Vanessa Grant's novels Taking Chances and Yesterday’s Vows in eBook format. To explore more of Vanessa’s writing resources like her workshops or online courses see VanessaGrant.ca.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
How to Quit Smoking Without Gaining Weight
In How To Quit Smoking Without Gaining Weight, Martin Katahn has formulated two programs. One is for those ready to quit and the other is for those still struggling.
It’s explained in detail the reasons why people gain weight even if they don’t ingest more calories. Apparently an ex-smoker’s metabolism slows down so much that it equals as much as 200 calories. According to Martin Katahn, 70% of all people who quit smoking gain weight.
Knowing these things doesn’t help lose the weight, but it helps by reassuring others that it’s common. His plans go into greater detail about how to either prevent weight gain before quitting or lose the weight after quitting. There's a 7 + 7 Program for those about to quit and an Ex-Smoker's Weight Management Program for those wanting to lose the weight gained after quitting.
The two things that will help someone quit are to be highly motivated and confident about it being a success. With this well thought out and researched plan; it’s more likely to be able to quit smoking successfully. Other benefits are that healthier eating and exercising habits will replace smoking and energy levels will increase.
Cut Fat & Choose Healthy Carbohydrates
His simple but not necessarily easy methods include cutting down on fat. Along with that are suggestions on how to replace fatty foods with complex carbohydrates. Specific food choices are given with lists of alternatives to use as a reference. There is a detailed appendix called Fat and Carbohydrate Counter. It lists common foods and the serving size, total fat, carbohydrates and calories. Although there is a present trend to go low on carbs, they’re necessary for energy. Martin Katahn assures people that if fat intake is lowered, they choose healthier carbohydrates and they exercise, they will lose weight.
Recipes
One of the best parts of How To Quit Smoking Without Gaining Weight is the healthy but delicious recipes demonstrating how to make things like chocolate chip cookies, muffins and lasagna lower in fat and higher in fiber. Many of the recipes are included in the menu suggestions.
Exercise
Anaerobic exercise or strength training is also encouraged and suggested as a method to help quit smoking and lose weight. Lifting small weights for ten minutes a day will suffice.
How To Quit Smoking Without Gaining Weight by Martin Katahn, publisher W.W. Norton & Company, 1994-2004, ISBN-10: 0743466233 is packed full of expert advice to assist those motivated to change their lifestyle and quit smoking. Marting Katahn is also the author of the T-Factor Diet
and The T-Factor Fat Counter
.
Knowing these things doesn’t help lose the weight, but it helps by reassuring others that it’s common. His plans go into greater detail about how to either prevent weight gain before quitting or lose the weight after quitting. There's a 7 + 7 Program for those about to quit and an Ex-Smoker's Weight Management Program for those wanting to lose the weight gained after quitting.
The two things that will help someone quit are to be highly motivated and confident about it being a success. With this well thought out and researched plan; it’s more likely to be able to quit smoking successfully. Other benefits are that healthier eating and exercising habits will replace smoking and energy levels will increase.
Cut Fat & Choose Healthy Carbohydrates
His simple but not necessarily easy methods include cutting down on fat. Along with that are suggestions on how to replace fatty foods with complex carbohydrates. Specific food choices are given with lists of alternatives to use as a reference. There is a detailed appendix called Fat and Carbohydrate Counter. It lists common foods and the serving size, total fat, carbohydrates and calories. Although there is a present trend to go low on carbs, they’re necessary for energy. Martin Katahn assures people that if fat intake is lowered, they choose healthier carbohydrates and they exercise, they will lose weight.Recipes
One of the best parts of How To Quit Smoking Without Gaining Weight is the healthy but delicious recipes demonstrating how to make things like chocolate chip cookies, muffins and lasagna lower in fat and higher in fiber. Many of the recipes are included in the menu suggestions.Exercise
Anaerobic exercise or strength training is also encouraged and suggested as a method to help quit smoking and lose weight. Lifting small weights for ten minutes a day will suffice.
How To Quit Smoking Without Gaining Weight by Martin Katahn, publisher W.W. Norton & Company, 1994-2004, ISBN-10: 0743466233 is packed full of expert advice to assist those motivated to change their lifestyle and quit smoking. Marting Katahn is also the author of the T-Factor Diet
and The T-Factor Fat Counter.Monday, February 22, 2010
Life A LIfe You Love by Susan Biali
Live A Life You Love: 7 Steps to a Healthier, Happier, More Passionate You by Dr. Susan Biali, M.D. is all about learning how to an authentic person, which means doing what you were meant to and being happy.
Even if desires and dreams seem impractical, Susan Biali urges people to embrace them in order to get in touch with their true selves.
Read more...
Even if desires and dreams seem impractical, Susan Biali urges people to embrace them in order to get in touch with their true selves.
Read more...
Monday, February 15, 2010
Francis of Assisi by Michael de la Bedoyere
Michael de la Bedoyere tells the tale of St. Francis of Assisi, the man who hugged lepers, embraced simplicity and despised corruption. A bishop told Francis that his simple lifestyle was unpractical. He replied: “If we had possessions, my lord, we should need arms to protect them.”
In his youth, Francis of Assisi was no angel and fought temptations, although his methods for dealing with them were unorthodox. Even though Francis was eccentric and defied rules and traditions, his loyalty to Christ and the Catholic faith was strong. This brought him attention from the bishops and they supported his work and encouraged his missions.
Francis became strong after being banished from his own family by spending time alone praying. He shared this advice with a crowd for facing their own challenges with people: “You will find some that are true, gentle and gracious. They will gladly accept what you say. But you will find far more who are faithless, proud, and blasphemous. These will mock and oppose you, and you will have to do your best.”
It was fascinating to read more detailed information about his life and personality so that Francis of Assisi became a real man instead of a mythical saint. Michael de la Bedoyere made Francis of Assisi: The Man Behind the Myths (Sophia Institute Press, ISBN: 978-0-918477-89-7, 1999) interesting because it showed how Francis had the same weaknesses as everyone else, overcame them and continues to inspire others to do the same.
Michael de la Bedoyere was a Catholic newspaper editor for several years. He also wrote The Remarkable Life of Francis de Sales and some of his works can be seen in SaintMaker.
Sophia Institute Press sent me a complimentary copy of this book to review.
In his youth, Francis of Assisi was no angel and fought temptations, although his methods for dealing with them were unorthodox. Even though Francis was eccentric and defied rules and traditions, his loyalty to Christ and the Catholic faith was strong. This brought him attention from the bishops and they supported his work and encouraged his missions.
Francis became strong after being banished from his own family by spending time alone praying. He shared this advice with a crowd for facing their own challenges with people: “You will find some that are true, gentle and gracious. They will gladly accept what you say. But you will find far more who are faithless, proud, and blasphemous. These will mock and oppose you, and you will have to do your best.”
It was fascinating to read more detailed information about his life and personality so that Francis of Assisi became a real man instead of a mythical saint. Michael de la Bedoyere made Francis of Assisi: The Man Behind the Myths (Sophia Institute Press, ISBN: 978-0-918477-89-7, 1999) interesting because it showed how Francis had the same weaknesses as everyone else, overcame them and continues to inspire others to do the same.
Michael de la Bedoyere was a Catholic newspaper editor for several years. He also wrote The Remarkable Life of Francis de Sales and some of his works can be seen in SaintMaker.
Sophia Institute Press sent me a complimentary copy of this book to review.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Interview at Online Publicist
You can tell she loves connecting books with people. I also admire the fact that she takes the extra time to familiarize herself with the bloggers/reviewers. Lisa now has over 400 online book reviewers and I'm confident Online Publicist will continue to succeed and grow.
Check out Lisa's New Blogger On The Block interview.
I just received the book When Turtles Fly: Secrets of Successful People Who Know How to Stick Their Necks Out by Nikki Stone from Anna at FSB Associates. It looks intense, so I'll get back to you with thoughts on it in a couple days.
Book photo by Sanja Sjenero
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Review of Trespasses Against Us by Christian M. Frank
Allie is new to John Paul 2 High and her new friends are patient and helpful about explaining the Catholic religion to her. She struggles to adjust and this gives readers the opportunity to learn and do some soul searching about their own morals.
Allie’s new boyfriend George has a best friend named Celia and their relationship is tested as the dynamics are changed. Celia is the principle’s daughter, who is viewed as a perfect Catholic and often feels left out.
A stalker remains an ongoing problem for Allie, causing fear and disagreements amongst the friends on how to handle it. Should they keep it a secret and handle it themselves or call the police?
The Struggle Against Peer Pressure in High School
Catholics are taught to be celibate until marriage as are many other religions and cultures. This Catholic high school's students are portrayed as being less sexually active than the public school, but that’s not necessarily the reality of all Catholic schools.
The struggle against peer pressure is real however and Trespasses Against Us portrayed that effectively. Other issues touched upon were how to forgive under difficult circumstances and the dangers of being consumed with anger and vengeance.
Trespasses Against Us is a well written suspenseful tale for teens struggling with the pressure to become sexually active. It offers common sense reasons why it’s not a good idea and may help open up dialogue with parents.
Sophia Institute Press sent me a complimentary copy of this book for me to review.
Allie’s new boyfriend George has a best friend named Celia and their relationship is tested as the dynamics are changed. Celia is the principle’s daughter, who is viewed as a perfect Catholic and often feels left out.
A stalker remains an ongoing problem for Allie, causing fear and disagreements amongst the friends on how to handle it. Should they keep it a secret and handle it themselves or call the police?
The Struggle Against Peer Pressure in High School
Catholics are taught to be celibate until marriage as are many other religions and cultures. This Catholic high school's students are portrayed as being less sexually active than the public school, but that’s not necessarily the reality of all Catholic schools.
The struggle against peer pressure is real however and Trespasses Against Us portrayed that effectively. Other issues touched upon were how to forgive under difficult circumstances and the dangers of being consumed with anger and vengeance.
Trespasses Against Us is a well written suspenseful tale for teens struggling with the pressure to become sexually active. It offers common sense reasons why it’s not a good idea and may help open up dialogue with parents.
Sophia Institute Press sent me a complimentary copy of this book for me to review.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Fat Flush For Life Detox Diet Plan
There’s interesting information about why “fat flushing” works, which I was originally a bit skeptical about. It does make sense that your metabolism will speed up if your liver isn’t clogged with toxins.
"Time" magazine named Fat Flush For Life one of the top 10 new diet books. I found the menu plans and slow cooker recipes particularly helpful and look forward to trying some of them out. The focus on nutrition and health rather than just weight was refreshing.
Read more..
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Wheat-Free, Gluten-Free Cookbook for Kids
The recipes in Wheat-Free Gluten-Free Cookbook For Kids are easy, gluten-free and dairy-free with picky children in mind. Some of the wheat-free recipes are so easy children could make them.
People with celiac disease have problems absorbing gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye. The more that gluten is ingested, the more the small intestines are damaged. The good news is that if children with celiac disease stick to a gluten-free diet, their intestines can heal.
One of the most fun and easy recipes in Wheat-Free, Gluten-Free Cookbook For Kids is for chocolate peanut butter cups. We also enjoyed the caramel popcorn. I didn’t have corn syrup, and it still turned out fine. I actually bought this book for my daughter because it’s hard to find child friendly gluten-free recipes.
Connie Sarros did a good job of making sure snack favorites were covered for children needing wheat-free alternatives. Read more...
People with celiac disease have problems absorbing gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye. The more that gluten is ingested, the more the small intestines are damaged. The good news is that if children with celiac disease stick to a gluten-free diet, their intestines can heal.
One of the most fun and easy recipes in Wheat-Free, Gluten-Free Cookbook For Kids is for chocolate peanut butter cups. We also enjoyed the caramel popcorn. I didn’t have corn syrup, and it still turned out fine. I actually bought this book for my daughter because it’s hard to find child friendly gluten-free recipes.
Connie Sarros did a good job of making sure snack favorites were covered for children needing wheat-free alternatives. Read more...
Friday, January 15, 2010
Far From the Land: An Irish Memoir
Far From The Land is a story about Thomas J. Rice and the struggles of an Irish farming family in the 50s. Rice’s alcoholic father took off and left him to become the man of the house. He left school because the headmaster was also an alcoholic and he was babysitting more than he was learning anything.
An old and respected neighbour eventually spurred him on to leave Ireland by saying, “If I were young agin, I’d get the hell outa here an’ make a something’ o’ meself”. The inspirational message throughout Far From The Land was despite the odds, if people are determined enough, they could overcome obstacles and make their dreams come true.
I recognized many of the Irish names in Far From the Land
from friends and family in Newfoundland and Ontario as many of our ancestors emigrated from Ireland to Canada. It would probably be fascinating for anyone to read Rice’s memoir and learn more about Ireland's culture. Read full review
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Angels of a Lower Flight by Susie Scott Krabacher
Susie Scott describes her emotional, entertaining and sometimes heart-breaking journey from Playboy centerfold to humanitarian in Angels of a Lower Flight.She’s not your typical Mother Theresa type, but she’s brave and determined to help children in Haiti. I admire Susie Scott because although she’s tough and had a violent background, she didn’t let that stop her from caring or making a difference.
She was also able to write this memoir so skillfully that you could picture what she was describing and feel the pain as well.
When Susie Scott was finally happily married, she felt the need to do more and set out for Haiti with her friend Gary where about 80% of Haitians live in abject poverty and the unemployment rate is more than 70%.
Most thought she was crazy and she had a hard time finding a driver to take her there, but Susie made a beeline for the poorest most dangerous area. Known for its violence and gangs with the reputation as the worst slum in Haiti she headed to Cité Soleil.
After a couple rough starts and rip offs from “vagabonds” as they call con men in Haiti, she managed to get a feeding center and schoolhouse built with the help of her husband Joe, brother Mark and several tattooed, muscled and sometimes stoned gang members in Haiti.
They named it "The Mercy Center" and after seeing so many bodies, bullets and machetes, Susie grew tougher. Her brother Mark’s death may have given her a strange strength. Sick of being approached with guns she started saying, “If you’re gonna try and scare me, at least cock the dad-gum thing.”
Wanting to do more, she began volunteering at an understaffed public hospital in Port-au-Prince encountering abandoned, neglected, disabled and malnourished children. Many of these disabled children are abandoned because of a widespread belief system that such a child is a curse, but Susie Scott embraces them recognizing the familiar wounded look in their eyes from her own childhood.
All profits from Angels of a Lower Flight go towards helping children in Haiti. It is a deeply moving story Susie Scott bravely shares that will leave you forever changed.Angels of a Lower Flight: One Woman's Mission to Save a Country . . . One Child at a Time
Monday, January 11, 2010
The Good Person Guidebook
The Good Person Guidebook begins by exploring ethics and how they pertain to character in the workplace and home.
How to balance competition with cooperation, sharing with greed and quick fix solutions with long-term plans are discussed with interesting insights.
There is a spiritual aspect to maintaining good ethics. Dr. Richard Bayer shows how Christianity, Buddhism, Islam and Judaism agree on many ways on how to be a good person.
Virtues
Virtues help answer what actions to take in challenging circumstances. It’s much easier not to be swayed by peers if you have spent time planning long-range goals that match your ethics, virtues and character. The virtues of courage, justice, prudence and temperance are explored among others.
Opportunities
It is not as tempting to bite on the next offered opportunity if it doesn’t fit into a solid long-term plan. The author points out how everyone is offered opportunities all the time but that doesn’t mean people have to jump on them.
If new opportunities don’t match with your long-term goals, it will only delay or even stop them from being fulfilled.
Economic Ethics
Economics and ethics are not always combined in business but it works out better for everyone when they are. Some businesses go after what they want regardless of how it affects others.
Many businesses do consider others using good ethics and manage to run their businesses successfully. The Good Person Guidebook: Transforming Your Personal Life clarifies good business practices including examples of how other companies protect human dignity
There is sound advice on how to deal with difficult situations with employees while still maintaining their dignity. This is important for several reasons. One is that if people leave on bad terms, it creates bad vibes throughout the company and morale falls.
One of the most helpful parts of the book give simple instructions on how to maintain the focus on long-range goals once they’re clarified.
When the direction headed is clear with long-term goals, it also becomes easier to help others while advancing in the direction desired.
About Dr. Richard Bayer
Dr. Richard Bayer is the official spokesperson and Chief Operating Officer of The Five O’Clock Club. He’s had numerous guest appearances on shows like CNN, The Today Show and more.
Presently he resides with his wife in Manhattan and works as a professor at Bayview Prison, helping to empower and prepare women for their release.
How to balance competition with cooperation, sharing with greed and quick fix solutions with long-term plans are discussed with interesting insights.
There is a spiritual aspect to maintaining good ethics. Dr. Richard Bayer shows how Christianity, Buddhism, Islam and Judaism agree on many ways on how to be a good person.
Virtues
Virtues help answer what actions to take in challenging circumstances. It’s much easier not to be swayed by peers if you have spent time planning long-range goals that match your ethics, virtues and character. The virtues of courage, justice, prudence and temperance are explored among others.
Opportunities
It is not as tempting to bite on the next offered opportunity if it doesn’t fit into a solid long-term plan. The author points out how everyone is offered opportunities all the time but that doesn’t mean people have to jump on them.
If new opportunities don’t match with your long-term goals, it will only delay or even stop them from being fulfilled.
Economic Ethics
Economics and ethics are not always combined in business but it works out better for everyone when they are. Some businesses go after what they want regardless of how it affects others.
Many businesses do consider others using good ethics and manage to run their businesses successfully. The Good Person Guidebook: Transforming Your Personal Life clarifies good business practices including examples of how other companies protect human dignity
There is sound advice on how to deal with difficult situations with employees while still maintaining their dignity. This is important for several reasons. One is that if people leave on bad terms, it creates bad vibes throughout the company and morale falls.
One of the most helpful parts of the book give simple instructions on how to maintain the focus on long-range goals once they’re clarified.
When the direction headed is clear with long-term goals, it also becomes easier to help others while advancing in the direction desired.
About Dr. Richard Bayer
Dr. Richard Bayer is the official spokesperson and Chief Operating Officer of The Five O’Clock Club. He’s had numerous guest appearances on shows like CNN, The Today Show and more.
Presently he resides with his wife in Manhattan and works as a professor at Bayview Prison, helping to empower and prepare women for their release.
Debut Horror Novel Damnable
Damnable is Hank Schwaeble's outstanding debut thriller. With a seamless combination of suspense, romance, mystery and horror, there's something for everyone.
The suspenseful thriller Damnable begins in New York, with interrogator Jake Hatcher imprisoned and tormented by staff and cellmates. When the call from his mother leads to his early release, he’s relieved but confused and begins to investigate immediately.
Read more: Review of the Thriller Damnable: Debut Novel Full of Horror and Suspense by Hank Schwaeble
Humpty Dumpty Was Pushed By Marc Blatte
Humpty Dumpty Was Pushed is written in a unique voice that is fast, dangerous, disturbing and hilarious at the same time. It's like a hip-hop version of Sin City.
Humpty Dumpty Was Pushed is Marc Blatte’s first mystery novel that’s also dubbed as hip-hop noir.
There are hip-hop artists struggling throughout the book that show the seedy side of New York. It takes a bit to get used to the street talk, but it has a certain rhythm that grabs a reader’s attention.
Read more: Humpty Dumpty Was Pushed by Marc Blatte: Debut Mystery and Hip-Hop Noir Novel
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