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The US Review of Books connects authors with professional book reviewers and places their book reviews in front of subscribers to our free monthly newsletter of fiction book reviews and nonfiction book reviews. Learn why our publication is different than most others, or read author and publisher testimonials about the USR.

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Recent Book Reviews

 

Focus Review

Annihilation by Kaylin McFarren Creative Edge Publishing "Lucifer's most frightening power is annihilation. You don’t need knives, spears or firearms when you can turn your enemies to dust with the wave of a hand." Hell has a new ruler, and her desire for eternal power knows no bounds. When Queen Lucinda replaces her father on the throne of Hell, a new reign of terror and perverse dominion begins. But maintaining control proves to be more difficult than Lucinda imagined as political enemies conspire, secret alliances form, and her father's spirit returns to claim what it is his. Evil retribution is unleashed when he reclaims the throne in a stealthy, unexpected move. Lucifer punishes his daughter and begins the hunt to kidnap and possess the enigmatic Samara, who becomes his queen by brutal force. But some outside of Hell believe Samara to be the miracle prophesied to destroy Lucifer and save the world from annihilation. Will she discover her power in time, or will Lucifer's mark consume her? ... (read more)

• Abide Dwell by Patricia A. David
• Aging Wisely by Viola B. Mecke, PhD., ABPP - RECOMMENDED
• Amballore Thoma by Jose Thekkumthala
• Amiss by L.L. McCall - RECOMMENDED
• And the Sun Taketh... by Leo Lysucor
• Beyond the Breakpoint by Debbie Faris - RECOMMENDED
• Black Menace by Kenneth J. Sousa
• Building Communities of Hope by Rev. Dr. Anne Hays Egan
• Caring for Parents and Other Loved Ones by Wilson Simmons III
• Caring God, A by Patricia A. David
• Catch Me When I Fall by Donna Stoneham - RECOMMENDED
• Christmas Light, The by Dian Cooper - RECOMMENDED
• Cordillera, The by Luis Rousset - RECOMMENDED
• Doireann, Boook. It's Book Granda! by Garrett Martin Richard Hearns
• Drawing Closer to God by Patricia A. David
• Effective Management of Mental Illness Without Widening Recidivism In Contemporary Correctional Setting by Stephen B. Oladipo, PhD
• Feeling Good by Jack Randall Cook - RECOMMENDED
• Fleur-De-Lis, Khaki Shorts, and Me, The by Graeme C Legge
• God to God by Patricia A. David
• Godsmack, Part I by Josie Peterson
• Gospel Essentials by Dr. Daniel R. Carfrey
• Hear the Knock by Patricia A. David
• I Can See the Rainbow Bridge by Tootsie Barron
• I Remember the Risorgimento by Honor Mamath - RECOMMENDED
• Infinity by Leonard Zimmerman MD
• Japanese Boy Sees a New Light, A by Shu Shimizu
• Journey of Alfred Goldsteen's Family, The by George H. Goldsteen
• Joy Comes in The Morning by Angela Tipton-Huss
• Looking for That Day by Patricia A. David
• Loser by Mr. Lucky - RECOMMENDED
• Love, Relationships, And, Sometimes, Just Letting Go by Reginald D. Smith
• MacLeish Sq. by Dennis Must
• MAN-DAR of Atlantis by Kenneth J. Sousa
• Matriarch And World War III by Daisy Snow
• Meditations by Patricia A. David
• Mega Quake 2023 by Richard Ruhling
• Mirus by Elaine Noel
• Miss Manhattan by Biman B. Roy - RECOMMENDED
• Murder Garden by Ron Fritsch - RECOMMENDED
• Notes from God by Patricia A. David
• Nothing Now Remains by Ernest O. Izedonmwen - RECOMMENDED
• One Flush at a Time by Robert “Dino” Comer
• Pangea by Peter DeChristopher
• Paper Sparrow by Magda Palmer
• Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun - RECOMMENDED
• Penny by Margaret Chu - RECOMMENDED
• Poems for Morning, Noon and Night by Patricia A. David
• Poet’s Compilation, The by Anthony Francis Balinger
• Pre 1949 Acupuncture by Andrew Mcpherson - RECOMMENDED
• Quest to Overthrow Heaven, The by Bolko Zimmer
• Rock Gods & Messy Monsters by Diane Hatz - RECOMMENDED
• Rustic Inn, The by J.D. Fromm - RECOMMENDED
• See You Soon! by Dr. Daniel R. Carfrey
• Sins of the Mother, The by Ellen Tipping
• Steps to the Father by Vince Blaize
• Strawberries and Nickel Twists by Nana
• Summer Chillers by K. MacDonald - RECOMMENDED
• Sundown by Carl H. Mitchell - RECOMMENDED
• Surviving in the Mental Health Jungle by Patrice Sharone Brown
• Thunder Buffalo Goes Home by Mark A. Cornelius - RECOMMENDED
• Twice in a Lifetime, and Then Some by Vee Q.
• Typhon Affair, The by Lou Earle
• Unstoppable Artist, The by Barbara L. McCulloch - RECOMMENDED
• WAR Baby by Dr. Georgette Prime-Godwin
• War Within, The by Sharlene Leker - RECOMMENDED
• Werewolf on Madison Avenue by Edward R. Lipinksi

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Featured Book Reviews

 

Living History

Highlight Review King Yeshua’s Visitation: Awaking to His Parousia as a Thief in the Night by Carmen Saunders LitPrime Solutions book review by Barbara Bamberger Scott "Science is confirming what was written in scripture thousands of years ago." Author Saunders has composed a lively treatise based on the proposition that we are now living in the end times prophesied in scripture, with only decades, perhaps, before the universe is destroyed, subsumed in the glorious presence, or Parousia, of God. To bring this significant reality home to readers, the author offers dynamic analogies, especially citing the biblical image of the thief in the night, who can enter our homes quietly and steal our possessions while we sleep contentedly, even arrogantly, assuming that we have made all adequate precautions for our safety from such intrusions. The cataclysm, Saunders asserts, is already underway in the form of "climate change, supervolcanoes, and the hidden dangers coming from space that we can't see or detect now." Given this crucial situation, the Christian's role is not to quibble about details but to pray for acceptance and glorify God's works. ... (read more)

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The Journey

Using a blend of historical fiction and poignant truths, the narrative delivers a spirited discourse on conservation, our environment, oneness, and, chiefly, the concept of coming full circle. With authors whose credentials speak for themselves and their commitment to Mother Earth, the beauty of this book lies in how easily it is brought to life for audiences. Titlow, whose background in natural history and photography, and Tinger, who helps future leaders fuse business with sustainability at Boston University’s Questrom School of Business, leave no stone unturned in delivering a truly comprehensive commentary on the origins and imminent threats our planet faces. ... (read more)

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The Real Deal

Highlight Review Loser - Thoughts and War Stories from Years of Casino Battles by Mr. Lucky Dorrance Publishing Company book review by Barbara Bamberger Scott "There are so many people that go to casinos and there are so many different outcomes from these trips." The author of this ingenious, self-satirizing, and surprisingly sagacious work is a man who has patronized casinos for many years, won some money, lost as much or more, and wants to share his experiences for the guidance and potential benefit of others. His own gambling daydreams have always included the possibility of winning a huge sum after thousands of hours playing slot machines and sitting at blackjack tables. But he also deals with fascinating facts, such as the tale of Archie Karas, who began his gambling foray in Las Vegas with just fifty dollars, managed to transform that into a notable forty-million-dollar bankroll, and gradually gambled it all away. The sandwich, the author tells his readers, was invented by the Earl of Sandwich, who wanted food brought to the casino table so he wouldn’t have to break for a meal. ... (read more)

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Historical Adventure

This book is the third installment in the A Pyrrhic Victory trilogy. In it, readers gain even more insight into the ancient military commander respected still today. Readers follow Pyrrhus through his barring from Rome and the rejection of his peace terms. Pyrrhus accepts an invitation to lead the powerful Greek cities in Sicily against the ruthless invaders, the Carthaginians. Pyrrhus then gains their support in the war he wages against Rome. This book is not only a careful look at Pyrrhus’ military greatness but also an insightful glance at who he was as a person as it incorporates a fictionalized portrayal of his relationship with Bircenna and Hellenistic faith, which was part of his existence. As it concludes, the book focuses on the small circle of individuals who made sure Pyrrhus’ remains were cared for with the utmost respect. It also briefly examines how Pyrrhus’ death set the stage for the next major turn in history—the beginning of the twenty-three-year-long struggle for control of Sicily: the First Punic War. . ... (read more)

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Learning to Read

Highlight Review This May Be Difficult to Read: But You Really Should (For Your Child’s Sake) by Claire N. Rubman, PhD Education & Parenting Matters book review by Barbara Bamberger Scott "Children construct knowledge from the world around them. If we provide the ideal tools, we need only leave the construction up to our children." Author, educator, and parent Rubman has gathered a bounty of research and personal experience focused on helping children learn to read. In doing so, she explores and puts to rest many “myths” regarding this process, with the purpose of guiding her audience to the best, most potent methods available. The concern that prompted her to bring these issues to light is simple, straightforward, and undeniably disturbing: statistically, as many as 67% of American eighth graders can’t read as well as required, and a surprising number of college students must enroll in remedial reading classes in their freshman year. It is notable, too, that nearly half of those included in the collected data come from middle- and upper-class home environments. ... (read more)

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Innovative

This innovative book blends fiction and fact to address what the authors see as a Marxist takeover of America. The chapters are written as distinct types of prose: normal narrative or general reading; non-fiction discussions of threats, such as a New World Order and The Great Reset; action or suggestions to regain freedom, prosperity, and safety; and heroic fiction in which the authors' theories are presented as a predictive thriller. Throughout the non-fiction portions, the authors expound on the current state of American politics and what is seen as an effort by the liberal wing of the Democratic Party to change America into a Marxist state. This theory is reinforced by the fictional part of the book, which tells a terrifying story of the assassination of a sitting American president. ... (read more)

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Love Conquers All

Highlight Review The Dragon’s Zenith by Jason F. Boggs Mill City Press book review by Sherry Galetka "They attack us because they’re secretly scared of us, scared of our will to be free." This third book in the Dragon Trilogy begins where The Dragon’s Harvest left off as Nelson accepts and mourns the death of his brave android friend, Botany, who was so nearly human that Nelson found it hard to remember this was not the case. Along with his new love, Alene, the Empress of the Great Tribe, and his daughter, Liana, Nelson wants only to move on with his life. But the realization that Ira Bilis is still alive and in a headlong rush to steal the Complex away from Botany’s creator has left Nelson and his friends scrambling to become battle ready once again. Ira’s intentions have been known and feared by humans and aliens alike. A dynamic leader will need to be chosen if freedom is to be won from the farmers. While Nelson and his friends bring everything they have to the fight, Ira stays one step ahead of them to thwart their plans. ... (read more)

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Brilliant Struggles

The author tells an engaging story about a headstrong nineteen-year-old heroine—Lilla, a princess and rebel of the Seven Galaxies—who chooses to go against her royal father's wishes and fight with the rebels seeking justice. Lilla's epic journey includes battling the dark gods while also struggling against her own inner demons. In this gripping novel, family loyalties are tested, and betrayal and bravery are two dominant themes. In a work that is part science fiction, part fantasy, and part romance, By expertly weaving together these genres into one storyline, Blaise succeeds in keeping the reader's interest piqued throughout the book. ... (read more)

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Genetic Ramifications

Highlight Review Biotechnology: Scientific Advancement versus Public Safety by Conrad B. Quintyn World Scientific Publishing book review by Mihir Shah "It is clear that tinkering or tweaking—which gives the impression of minor changes—for a desired effect can also lead to drastically fatal results." In the history books, the twenty-first century will be known for many things, but the technological advancements that have revolutionized life itself will be at the forefront. In Quintyn’s text, readers get an incredibly comprehensive history of the evolution of biotechnology. At its core, the author is determined to demonstrate that though genetic engineering has forever altered the way we live, the ripple effects it has undeniably caused leave many unanswered implications for society, ones that future generations will have to fend off and decipher if nothing is done now. ... (read more)

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Revolutionary

The Handmaid’s Tale meets 1984 in this timely, captivating, alternately hilarious and infuriating dystopian novel that presents a plausible scenario in a future USA. The right to terminate a pregnancy is a small facet of any woman’s worries, with birth control banned and babies the primary source of government income. The most genetically fit babies command the highest prices at auction, and no couple keeps their biological children after giving birth. Worse, there’s no right to decide when to have a child or even whom to marry. Women are forced to marry their rapists or other unsuitable mates during the thirty-eight-year-long administration of President Boyce, who declares the 1950s and 1960s to be the “Halcyon Days.” In fact, the only television options available to Americans are mid-twentieth-century programs and films that reinforce Boyce’s philosophical gaslighting. ... (read more)

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Sound Advice

Falling in love is easy. Swept up in emotions and the excitement of something new is like a rose-filled wave that lifts lovers to dizzying heights and sets them off on shore to find their way. Then the hard work begins, and sometimes that work demands the help of the experts. With over forty years of experience, Mary Giuffra offers resources and practices to empower couples to build and maintain long-lasting relationships. Filled with practical advice, insightful revelations, and candid examples, this guide will inspire couples to transform their relationships. Strategies are thoughtfully designed and thoroughly explained, so the hard work feels manageable and the results within reach. ... (read more)

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Human Warriors

Author Megargee, a seeker of metaphysical, spiritual, and simple human truths, has devised a means of conveying his quest that is largely told through the format of conversation. In much of this far-reaching narrative, the reader follows talks between the author, or “B,” and a character named Laz, or “L,” whom he introduces as his “personal soul guide.” Laz’s revelations slowly evoke the author’s understanding of the human connection to the four elements—water, fire, air, and earth—and are balanced and enhanced by observations from a Buddhist source, Khenchen. While Laz offers didactic reasoning, Khenchen takes a mystical approach. This combination will stimulate Megargee to fashion ideas that relate to his individual experience and help him to face life more fearlessly and with greater compassion. ... (read more)

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Rich Realism

Abigail is living a contented (though imperfect) life in Baltimore in the 1880s with her parents and sisters. She helps her father with his candy store and contends with a burgeoning independence that puts her at odds with her impending marriage to Avery, a strong-willed man prone to violent outbursts. Once married, she must make difficult decisions to maintain peace at home with her husband. When tragedy strikes, her financial life is left in ruin, and she turns to the Women's Exchange for support. Here, buoyed by enterprise and opportunity, she rediscovers her lost independence and regains her financial footing. The Women's Exchange, a philanthropic endeavor, has established a way for women to sell their sewing and embroidery and earn a living outside the home. Women who have so little autonomy apart from their fathers and husbands can support themselves through the organization when life takes unexpected turns. Abigail benefits from the second chance she finds through this community of women. With vivid historical detail, the post-Civil War era comes to life through Abigail's story. ... (read more)

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JadeAnne Continues

JadeAnne Stone, an investigative journalist whose main interest is human trafficking, is being hunted by the devious Anibal and ruthless cartel members who wish to retrieve her and fifteen-year-old Lily after their escape. With the help of JadeAnne’s biological father, Quint, the two females are hiding out with an array of security. However, how can one know who to trust in a country where law enforcement is easily bought off, and even government agents may not be trustworthy? Though the two are American citizens, they find no help from the American Embassy and must find another way to return to the States safely. The handsome Dr. Dylan Porras and his family become involved as he and JadeAnne begin a budding romance. With the help of friends and colleagues, they eventually create a feasible but dangerous escape plan. However, the question remains: Who can they really trust? ... (read more)

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Spellbinding

With his ambitious novel, Zimmerman takes his readers on a unique science fiction journey through time and space. In a different galaxy and on “planet number three”—which is identical to Earth in every way—is a country called Truman. Sadly, much like our planet today, Truman was headed for disaster, and the “Evolutionary Psychology” took charge of their people and taught them The Golden Rule, which saved them and brought them back to happiness. Seeing their success, the elders of Truman decided to save some of their most respected people from aging so they could teach future generations about The Golden Rule. The plan does not go quite as expected, however, and Max Brand, a sixty-year-old physician, ends up on present-day Earth where he sets out to teach modern-day mankind The Golden Rule of Altruism. ... (read more)

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Working Together

Ever wondered how to make a positive difference in the world? This book helps answer that question as Egan delves, with anecdotes and personal experience, into how every single action toward this goal, whether small or big, is impactful to the world. Even the simple act of hope and maintaining gratitude can go a long way in influencing a person’s attitude toward the world around them, thereby positively shaping how they react to it. In other words, hope begets change. The smallest acts of kindness, love, and compassion have rippling effects. ... (read more)

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Vietnam Retreat

Rick begins his life in a small farming town in California and comes of age during the Vietnam War. He hopes to become a preacher, attends college for a year, and meets the woman he will eventually marry. But when he can’t afford tuition for his second year of college, he is drafted, trained as a medic, and sent over to Vietnam. There, his life takes a devastating turn as he witnesses the horrors of war, takes drugs for the first time, and questions the existence of God. His life is forever altered by his tour of duty. He returns home to try to resume his life, but he brings with him the guilt and anguish inflicted by the war. He settles into a pattern of drinking and drug use with stints in jail marked by periods of remorse and steady employment. His family suffers alongside him, buoyant with hope when he starts fresh but crushed with despair when he succumbs to his addictions. This absorbing narrative explores the impact of war on one man’s life and captures the vicious cycle of personal destruction and self-sabotage. ... (read more)

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Winning Addiction

The author of this ingenious, self-satirizing, and surprisingly sagacious work is a man who has patronized casinos for many years, won some money, lost as much or more, and wants to share his experiences for the guidance and potential benefit of others. His own gambling daydreams have always included the possibility of winning a huge sum after thousands of hours playing slot machines and sitting at blackjack tables. But he also deals with fascinating facts, such as the tale of Archie Karas, who began his gambling foray in Las Vegas with just fifty dollars, managed to transform that into a notable forty-million-dollar bankroll, and gradually gambled it all away. The sandwich, the author tells his readers, was invented by the Earl of Sandwich, who wanted food brought to the casino table so he wouldn’t have to break for a meal. ... (read more)

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Population Control

In this well-organized book, the author offers her provocative take on the current global state of affairs. Snow introduces novel ideas about government corruption and One-World governments. Deeply distrusting the Australian government, Snow painstakingly cites many cases of malicious cover-up from the highest seat of government. The author claims to be one of several people in the world who knew about the impending doom of 9/11, the day that two planes flew into the World Trade Centers and killed thousands of people. It is no longer of primary purpose to discover who or how 9/11 came to pass, she argues, but rather it is imperative now to take a deeper look into how Islamic countries can stop exporting their overpopulation to other regions of the world, including Australia. ... (read more)

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Better Back

A Polish architectural engineer brings his professional expertise and experiences with a “bad back” to bear in this medical handbook exploring the human musculoskeletal system. The book is suitable “not only for medicine, rehabilitation or sports professionals, but also for ordinary people looking for tips on how to stay healthy and fit for many years.” At fifty-five, the author experienced a herniated disc that caused sciatica, shooting pains in the lumbar region of his back. He soon found that the main treatment consisted of prescription painkillers and muscle relaxants. While he pursued the prescribed therapy, he scoured the Internet for more information, finding that modern medicine mostly lacked non-surgical interventions for his condition. Jodlowski found a therapist who treated spinal and motor organ issues with therapeutic exercises that border upon kinesiotherapy. ... (read more)

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Corruption Abound

Alex, a secretary, has to zip her brain out of her head and put it in a crystal urn in order to work for the record company. This is due to an agreement she signed called the Cerebrum Extraction Release. And so begins a humorous take on corporate America in the 1990s, with all their dysfunctions and trials and tribulations, where even the memos have memos. Vinny DiMachio, the head honcho, and his right-hand man (in more ways than one), Jeremy Wickett, wreak havoc upon the staff, along with other members of management. They have to deal with the Yakadans, the aliens who own the company, all while trying to screw over the artists that work for it. ... (read more)

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LGBTQ Murder Mystery

When Ted Linden arrives home one August afternoon after working in his bank job and visiting Chicago’s Art Institute, he finds his cherished young partner, Warren Hadley, sprawled amongst the phlox in his garden with a slashed throat. Just the day before, Warren’s homophobic brother, Darrel, paid the couple a visit and stated angrily that Warren was better off dead than gay. The couple threw Darrel out even as Warren described his brother’s bark as worse than his bite. Surely the murderer must be Darrel, Ted thinks. ... (read more)

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Vagabond Days

Yahn, a Philadelphia accountant, warns Simms, his client, about the dire consequences of having borrowed money from a corrupt business that he can’t repay. Yahn’s boss fires him before Protean (the corrupt moneylenders) can entice Yahn, a numbers wizard, to cook their books like Simms wants him to. Already stressed to the point of multiple medical emergencies, Yahn believes unemployment will finish him. Instead, he takes the opportunity to heal in the country. The Pennsylvania farmland where he buys property, however, is also Protean’s hideout. While Yahn and his new farmer-neighbors ready the soil for organic crops, Protean members plan a heist to undermine their leader. After a violent encounter, Yahn’s Earthworks crew and the Protean thugs discover they have more in common than they thought. ... (read more)

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Bright & Colorful

This early reader is colorful and animated, in juxtaposition to its difficult topic. The book is perfect for reading practice at the first-grade level, but it is also a wonderful start to talking about the life cycle, with an emphasis on empathy. Broaching the subject of death with small children is sometimes necessary but never easy. This children's book hits the mark, acknowledging that the life cycle is sometimes sad but mostly a matter of fact. ... (read more)

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Quest for Numbers

In this educational children’s book, a butterfly named Pebbles sets out to find the biggest number. He flies through various habitats, including a jungle, a desert, and the ocean. In each location, he meets different animals who tell him about themselves, their environments, and the biggest number they know. With each new location, Pebbles learns about orders of magnitude going all the way up to nonillion—with mentions of googols and googolplexes—until he discovers the concept of infinity. ... (read more)

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Inspirational

Life wasn’t easy for Daniel Schmartz. When his older sister decided to put a stop to his alcoholic father sexually abusing her, it cost the life of Daniel’s father, mother, and sister. His mother put up with all the abuse because she believed her strong faith was based on love and forgiveness, and she would never give up on her husband. However, after the tragic events that cost Daniel his family, he felt there was no use for God. Although he had times when he could practically hear the voice of God, Daniel was no longer interested, and this created a spiritual war within him. Daniel quit speaking for years as a result. This caused him to have a hard time finding a foster family. When he did find a willing family he liked—a loving home of a minister, his wife, and daughters—Daniel’s first words were an outburst against God. Fearing the fallout, Daniel ran away and returned to the foster home. ... (read more)

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Slipery Slope

Poetic works by David are enhanced by verses from holy scripture in these selections that cover a wide variety of spiritual subject matter, from the doubts and fears of even the most faithful, and the blessings promised and delivered by God. A potent example is “Across the Sky,” in which David imagines “thunder in the distance, thunder all around,” and lightning flashing—yet all as a prelude to rain, which comes “to give the earth new birth”—a reminder that even dreaded occurrences manifest to increase one’s understanding that “God is in the plan.” Throughout the book’s 115 poems, this contrast between human illusions and the reality that God and his son Jesus bring is frequently stressed. ... (read more)

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Devout Philosophy

In an emotive collection of works from 2010 to 2020, poet David reaches out to Christians and “those who do not know Him.” The first piece, “Time with God,” expresses her wish that she and all humankind will be drawn to God’s loving care and see his beauty. “Check Your Heart” speaks of secrets. Everyone has them, often deluding themselves with them “for days and weeks and sometimes years.” But Jesus Christ is the embodiment of truth, so one should search one’s heart and place their trust in him. ... (read more)

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End of Times

Ruhling uncovers messages hidden in the Bible warning of an unparalleled earthquake in 2023, including a string of devastating end of times prophecies. The earthquake will take place along the American west coast, and Los Angeles, Pasadena, San Bernardino, and various other cities will be thoroughly leveled. The 2015 movie San Andreas was perhaps a harbinger of this coming disaster. In the spring of 2023, the armies of many nations will march on Jerusalem, attempting to kill the Jewish people who live there, but these armies will be defeated by God. Discussion of the coming quake leads to various other topics, such as the true origin of the COVID vaccine and its potential side effects and that people may have been better off avoiding hospitals and relying on natural remedies for healing. ... (read more)

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Sacrifice & Mercy

For those of faith, David’s poetry provides an opportunity to rejoice. Meanwhile, for those who are still on the fence but with open hearts, it is a platform to welcome Christ as the savior. What makes her work intriguing within the plethora of faith-based poetry offerings in the marketplace is its unassuming nature and pure devotion toward Christ’s love. ... (read more)

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Prayer

With a nurturing grace, the author nudges audiences toward the light of the Lord’s path, providing readers with a blueprint for breaking through the ailments of the material world and finding everlasting comfort and solace with God. As David tackles the traditional elements of humanity spanning the spectrum of joy to grief, her poetry provides a steady hand to those seeking direction. ... (read more)

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The Creative Life

This inspiring guide for artists presents projects that will help readers unblock their creativity and practice methods to improve drawing and painting techniques. Through purpose-driven tasks, readers and creators can explore creative possibilities, become empowered, and envision new styles for their artwork. McCulloch offers a wide array of practical tasks that will get artists rejuvenated and focused in order to achieve their artistic hopes and goals. Using journal writing, sketchbooks, and reflective practices, McCulloch invites artists to embrace possibilities and passions on the path to producing powerful art that reflects the inner life and personal voice of the artist. ... (read more)

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Sharp Contract

Readers meet Carla and Paul Thompson. They are happily married and live in a town called Cold Spring Harbor in New York. Paul is a wealth management advisor, and Carla owns a brick-and-mortar store. They are both successful in their careers. One day, Peter, Paul's twin brother, shows up at their house needing a place to stay. His career as a musician has not taken off. Paul offers him a job to help around the house, and Peter accepts it. However, Peter's presence makes Carla uncomfortable. He always makes a pass at her when his brother is not around. On top of that, Paul spends more time at work than at home, which frustrates Carla. She wishes he could spend more time with her. Peter pretends to be okay with his situation, but he is not. The more Peter sees his brother thrive financially, the more envious he becomes. ... (read more)

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The Unknown

In 1945, a pork processing plant of ill repute burned down. In 1946, The Rustic Inn was christened from the plant’s ashes. It was only a matter of time before strange occurrences began to happen. In 1961, a local barber disappeared and was never heard from again. A suspicious fire devoured the property of the caretaker. Annie and Joe were hired on in 2005 at the inn and would get more than they could ever have bargained for. In the present-day setting of 2020, new guests have arrived, the bar is fully stocked, and the gods of fate have something planned for the occupants of the inn. And does it seem a bit creepy that every year the woods that surround the Inn seem to encroach just a little further on the property? ... (read more)

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Willingness

This collection by poet David centers around the book’s title concepts: Christian scripture often speaks of dwelling in God’s house and sustaining an abiding faith in Him. The opening work, “Never Be Discouraged,” projects this theme, inviting readers to set fears aside and abide in Christ. The author believes that one’s hopes will be fulfilled in trusting God, and one’s perspectives may change, as expressed in “Going Where?”: “Stop worrying about how you look outside, look into your heart.” Like some others in the book, this poem is accompanied by a verse from the Holy Bible. ... (read more)

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Rhyme & Reason

Poet David brings to this wide-ranging assortment an engaging combination of scriptural reference, human hopes, light humor, and serious exhortations designed to stir readers to more diligent contemplation of Christian doctrine in everyday life. The first offering, “Heaven or Hell?” urges immediate attention to the possibility of becoming “Hell bound” by deferring one’s relationship with God until a tomorrow that may never come. ... (read more)

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Lyrical Excellence

In a temporal world that is constantly in motion, yet perhaps headed nowhere, the poet provides an opportunity for readers to be exposed to the Word, the truest way to inner and absolute peace. Centered around trusting the love of Christ and his ultimate sacrifice for mankind, this poetry compilation delves into each person’s preparedness for meeting the moment when the call comes. ... (read more)

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Peaceful Life

Utilizing an array of underlining and italics, David adds emphasis and creates a rhythmic structure to convey her outlook on approaching the various parts of the day, from rising in the morning to retiring for rest at night. In the process, the poetry gives rise to optimism to begin the day and reflection to end the night. However, the one constant in both cases is prayer and keeping the Lord central in one’s life. ... (read more)

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Lighthearted

Learning to see with the eyes of the soul is at the heart of this poetry compilation that explores the dichotomy between a caring God who sacrifices his only son for humanity and Satan’s never-ending attempts to trap one within the web of temptation. Right from the opening title poem, “A Caring God,” David drives home the essence of vision by using the metaphor of birds emerging from the trees as birdseed is thrown on the ground. God is throwing that birdseed for humanity in the form of myriad blessings, and it is up to people to learn to change their perspective and the lens through which they see. ... (read more)

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Navigating Counseling

This short, professional book for mental health counselors includes nineteen chapters and concludes with an interview with the author herself. It begins by looking at what such counseling is about and how it can help with things such as relationships, abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and coping with stress. It then discusses who is a mental health counselor. The book explains issues related to clients, such as building a relationship, one’s own organizational skills, ways to counsel, and various theories of counseling. Stress management, including seven steps to having less stress, such as utilizing goals, focusing on mind/body/heart/soul, and having personal boundaries, is explored. It looks at some challenges of the profession, such as poor pay and few resources, as well as how to start a private practice. Spirituality is also discussed for the client and for the counselor. ... (read more)

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Vicarious Journey

Traveling, lingering over cocktails, or just being a friend would be fun with Vee Q. In this light yet serious memoir, she conveys secrets to an upbeat personality despite two bouts with breast cancer, weekly injections for rheumatoid arthritis, and an operation while fully conscious for giant cell arteritis. The importance of anticipating and planning for pleasure fuels the author’s attitude of hope. Humor is also key, especially when life throws curveballs. ... (read more)

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A Big Living Place

Thunder Buffalo lives on the sun-dappled prairies of South Dakota, where he has seemingly everything essential to make a buffalo happy: companionship, sweet grass, and the mentorship of Old, Old Buffalo, the oldest and wisest buffalo in the herd. At night he performs his celebrated Thunder Dance while the other buffalo stamp and cheer in delight. But Thunder Buffalo isn’t entirely happy, as he realizes one day when a male human appears on the prairie in a fast-moving car and speaks to him of “Love” and “Home,” mysterious words that stir a note of yearning in the young buffalo’s heart. The man offers to take him away to live with him. After conferring with Old, Old Buffalo, Thunder Buffalo agrees to journey away with the man, though he promises to return once a year and tell of his adventures in distant lands. He enters the “man-wagon” and, after much travel, arrives at a vast pasture where the man’s children lavish him with great affection, brushing his woolly coat and feeding him dandelions. ... (read more)

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Candid Advice

As the baby boomer generation ages, there are large numbers of people who are coming to terms with the limitations that growing older brings. This short book holds a great deal of information to help those who have reached this time of life. Drawing upon her own life, as well as her experiences as a clinical psychologist, the author brings insight into this important theme. Mecke writes from her desire to help those who may be struggling with the aging process. The book includes subjects such as emotional well-being, facing retirement, challenges of loneliness, and dealing with loss. Each section sheds light on the aging process and offers valuable suggestions for embracing one’s life at this time. She includes endnotes and references for those who wish to further research the information included. ... (read more)

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Eternal Bonds

In an ode to the act of living, Balinger combines both poetry and presentation to deliver an enjoyable reading experience. Broken down by sections that delve into a particular element of being human, the compilation is a heartwarming, feel-good work that serves as a reminder to those mired in the day-to-day chaos to slow down and appreciate the beauty of existing as a human on this planet. ... (read more)

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Magical World

After their arranged marriage, Thoma and Ann seem to be living the good life when it all falls to pieces. The couple lose Thoma’s parental home and property to his younger siblings, whom Thoma had been raising. They become homeless and bounce from place to place until they eventually settle in a rental which includes a cruel landlord. Ann does her best to make their little rental a home and provides Thoma with ten children, one of whom is the landlord’s through rape. This child, like the landlord, is a werewolf. Thoma works odd jobs, drinks too much, and sometimes hits Ann. His older children are dutiful and driven to get out and make their own way in life. The younger children don’t think their parents do enough and expect more from them. The family is visited by a variety of spirits and Indian mythological beings, which play important roles in the family narrative. ... (read more)

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Classic Fantasy

Isolde, also known as the White Witch, has sworn to protect the continent of Pangea from evil. When she senses a sinister presence growing in the Dark Forest, she knows she must investigate. Soon, she learns that a wicked demon, Abaddon, known to sit at the left hand of Evil, is gathering an army to conquer all of Pangea. Those who oppose Abaddon band their armies together and march on his fortress. Meanwhile, Isolde, with a group of multiple races of free people, attempts to sneak into the fortress and use the upcoming battle as a diversion to confront Abaddon himself. They’ll have to overcome many monsters and hidden dangers if they want a chance of catching Abaddon for an unexpected confrontation. ... (read more)

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True Sufferage

Peggy, or Maggie as she would rather be called, endures a childhood of abuse from her adoptive parents. On her own at the age of thirteen, she finds work in a hospital as an aide. Fortunately, after being dismissed from the hospital because of bad publicity about its standards, she finds a family in dear friends and kind employers. When she is barely fifteen, she is raped. Because of her subsequent pregnancy, she must leave her friends to enter a home for unwed mothers. Run by an unscrupulous matron and her helper, Maggie learns that it is common practice to place newborns with families willing to pay for the privilege of parenthood. After giving birth and leaving the home, Maggie finds her life takes many turns as she forges a life from hard work and unexpected adventures. ... (read more)

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Radically Unhinged

In his quest for scientific innovation, Glenn accidentally creates a whirlwind, essentially his own weather pattern, which is launched from his secret lab. A brilliant thinker and innovator, Glenn, nicknamed Dr. Glennenstein by outsiders, is trying to rid the world of nuclear waste with his invention. But when his experiments go awry, he is labeled a terrorist and must go on the run and begin the work to intercept, disperse, and destroy the whirlwind before it decimates the earth irrevocably. Using all his scientific prowess and predictive capabilities, he begins the greatest experiment of his life, tracking his accidental climate creation and killing it before it destroys the world. Through trial and error, varied resources, and deep vats of knowledge, Glenn’s journey to save the world from climate ruin is mind-bending, wild, and endlessly imaginative. ... (read more)

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Changing Climate

In the mid-1840s, Italy is a country on the verge of conflict. The country is divided among various colonizers and factions. In 1848, a revolution will be waged in order to wrest control from Austria. Giuseppe Garibaldi emerges as the charismatic leader of the rebellion. Jessie White is a headstrong and smart young woman attending the Birmington Academy when she meets Garibaldi. Jessie takes note of the rapidly changing times across Europe that are moving toward class warfare between the nobility and the commoners. Jessie possesses more of a liberal bent and identifies with the revolutionaries. As the years progress, Jessie emerges as a writer chronicling the revolution and continues to encounter Garibaldi. As the tide turns in the conflict, Jessie becomes less of a spectator and more of a player in the reunification of Italy. ... (read more)

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True Emotion

In his autobiography, Cook recounts his life from childhood to adulthood. His parents had fifteen children, and he was the tenth child. When Cook was a teenager, he took on leadership roles in school and dedicated himself to good work ethics. He knew that hard work always paid off and was dedicated to completing any task assigned to him. His beliefs and values shaped the person he became. At an early age, he believed in God. During difficult times, he would always turn to him. On top of that, his mother was a firm believer in never giving up and always pursuing one’s goals. This positive mindset influenced Cook's entire life and transmitted it to his future children and others he met along the way. Throughout this journey, Cook has always found a reason to feel good all the time, even through rough patches. ... (read more)

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Comic Relief

Humor with honor and a human touch is highlighted in this colorful, highly engaging volume by author Comer. Each page comprises a photograph—sometimes more than one—overlaid with a joke or a brief essay, childhood memories, and recollections about those who have devoted time to military service. Much amusement is based around certain bathroom (or outhouse) activities, with the opening proviso that the work, as its title implies, is to be read “on the toilet.” Four adorable pets, as shown on the book’s lively front cover, enjoy reading while occupying the bathroom chair. ... (read more)

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Bright Adventure

In this colorful children’s book, young readers meet Bright, an abandoned Christmas light whose owner has forgotten him in the attic for years. Bright lies tucked away, believing he will never leave the box again. Yet his friend Mr. Mouse wonders if this will be the Christmas that Bright is removed from the box and allowed to shine. Young readers see Mrs. Smith, Bright’s owner, give Bright and many other decorations hope as she chooses Bright and the other lights as Christmas decorations. When Mrs. Smith vows that the box of Christmas lights in which Bright lives will never return to the attic, Bright’s life changes forever. As children follow Bright’s journey, they also encounter important messages about faith, family, and everyone they meet along life’s way. ... (read more)

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Delightful Memoir

When his private English school was shut down during the coronavirus crisis, Shimizu decided to write a memoir about his daring escape with his family from North Korea to South Korea. Having once kept a journal of his journey to Seoul, South Korea, Shimizu’s recollections of this time period have always been fresh in his mind. ... (read more)

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Action & Romance

The dynamic life of Jacques Laurent unfolds in this action-packed, adventurous story that moves lightning-fast through his formative years in France and Argentina to his training and work for the secretive government agency that recruits him out of school. Crisscrossing the globe, Jacques is forever torn between the quiet life available to him on his uncle’s estancia in Argentina and the thrilling life offered through his work for the security agency. With each mission, he is drawn deeper into a tangled network of conflicted loyalties, dangerous liaisons, and impossible choices. When Jacques is reunited with a former lover with ties to Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, he dreams of a peaceful life on the estancia, but he and Irina may be in too deep to build a life together. As agents for their countries, they are bound to serve when duty calls and sends them far and wide away from each other. ... (read more)

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Culture Clash

This novel tells the story of Osaru. Originally from Nigeria, he had lived in the United States for several years. To everyone's shock, he returned to Nigeria without a clear explanation, leaving his family and friends to wonder what happened in America. It is later revealed that he was in prison, but his conviction was overturned. He was set free but deported because he had overstayed his visitor's visa. As a result, he was barred from the United States for ten years. Unfortunately, he had no choice but to leave his daughter behind, leaving the mother of his child to care for her independently. Throughout this journey, Osaru had to rebuild his life in Nigeria while maintaining a long-distance relationship with his daughter, Roses. ... (read more)

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Better Treatment

This book is an in-depth review of the American contemporary correctional setting and how culture and society can better the methods used in treatment centers and correctional facilities to help prevent recidivism, which Oladipo defines as re-offenses of past incarcerated individuals. Oladipo begins his analysis by reviewing the various historical methods of handling criminal justice in America that led to the current approach. Additionally, he discusses cultural trends that correlate with and have potentially caused the rise in drug use and mental illness in the U.S. ... (read more)

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Standout Drinks

This visually appealing book is full of tantalizing recipes for cold and frozen treats and drinks. The book is divided into four sections: ice cream and frozen desserts, shakes and smoothies, non-alcoholic beverages, and alcoholic drinks. Each recipe takes up only one page and is accompanied by a beautiful color photograph of the end result. Some formatting issues in the book compress some of the pictures and affect recipe line breaks, but these do not get in the way of enjoying both the photos and the recipes. Almost every recipe uses fewer than eight ingredients, the majority of which can be found in any grocery store. ... (read more)

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Origins

This slim but enlightening guidebook explores pre-1949 acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and the radical changes in the topics promoted by the People’s Republic of China since then. The author is a well-qualified doctor of Chinese medicine for thirty years and is the president of the Australian National Acupuncturists and Chinese Herbalist Association. Traditional Chinese acupuncture and herbal medicine contain an ancient philosophy that conflicts with modern viewpoints and so was changed or disregarded, perhaps “to provide modern-day students with a more simple, ‘user-friendly’ system.” The author proposes that this is “nothing short of incredible, if not, in many ways, downright disastrous” and supports his viewpoint with concrete arguments and evidence. ... (read more)

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Survival Story

George Goldsteen never knew his father, Alfred. Alfred was arrested due to an order by the Nazis and their sympathizers and sent to a concentration camp when the author was two, just days before Alfred’s daughter would be born. Through World War II and the Holocaust, the author would lose about ninety-five family members. This memoir tracks his journey to find out what happened to his family and how his father was murdered. ... (read more)

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Grandparent Joy

This book details the adventures of a retired couple taking on a co-parenting role by providing daycare for their granddaughter. Their routines and toddler experiences are funny and sweet. The grandparents demonstrate their ways of handling two-year-old drama while de-escalating conflict. But the book isn't exactly a parenting how-to. The narrative doesn't preach anything. Instead, the author chronicles difficulties and joyous times and how they handle each one. ... (read more)

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Satisfying Read

In 2057, the world’s oil supply has been decimated by a biological agent. What little is left has come under the control of the World Council. The Council’s international law supersedes the law of various nations. They control birth rates, energy, and the world through their policies. Jason Beck is the head of the World Council, and he governs with complete control. NYC detective Nick Garvey is concerned with more pressing matters. The vice president and four secret service agents are murdered and dumped on the steps of city hall. The president is due to visit for an ambitious energy project in a few short weeks, and the mayor is demanding answers. ... (read more)

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Rhyming Time

Written entirely in rhyming verse, the story tells of a warm relationship between a little girl and her uncle Robert. Narrated from the perspective of an older woman reflecting on her youth, the book recounts how fond she was of dancing and of how Uncle Robert would reward her by giving her “nickel twists” and strawberries from the freezer in his barn. She recalls how he would clap along and keep time to the beat. He had also a swing on which they played together, and when they tired of this, they would go fishing on the pier or play volleyball with friends. She laments, with a certain wistfulness, the lavish Easter meals that she used to enjoy with him and the rest of her family. The end of the book reveals that Uncle Robert has since passed on, leaving her with only her memories. ... (read more)

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Action-Packed

Marie Sayer lives on Earth, her father’s home planet, and works as an engineer for a company called Space Link. When a Space Link ship disappears under mysterious circumstances soon after another ship’s crash, Marie must go to the planet Mirus to investigate. Despite the fact that Marie’s deceased mother was Mirun royalty, Marie does not know much about Mirus. Upon her arrival, Marie learns much more than just information about transport ships: the beautiful Mirun landscapes and wildlife are under threat from enterprising off-planet mining companies; the government seems complacent in selling off Mirus’ natural resources; and the once-aware planet itself has gone still. Marie must decide whether or not to help save the planet and, in doing so, accept her place in this strange and beautiful new world. ... (read more)

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Compassion& Humor

The generic declaration, “relationships are complex,” seems like a gross understatement. In today’s high-tech work, a relationship may even seem like uncharted territory. Reliance on devices can create more disconnection and underdeveloped social skills. Most romantic relationships experience challenges, but with an overwhelming volume of information, it can be difficult for couples to find a source to get guidance. All this makes Smith’s book a refreshing option. In ten chapters, he breaks intimate partnerships down into their most essential components. Far from oversimplifying or passing off tired slogans as tools, he presents concrete strategies for healing. He has eloquently concentrated a wealth of principles, stories, and models into this short book. ... (read more)

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