In Search of Rohan Chang by Lincoln Lee

In Search of Rohan Chang by Lincoln Lee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In Search of Rohan Chang by Lincoln Lee is a well-written and engaging book. The opening pages ooze with the essence of New York City, and the energy it contains. You get a true sense of the city right away. The writing is crisp and eloquent with an undertone of melancholy as the main character is brought into the story. Rohan Chang is a somewhat troubled young Asian American trying to make his way, even though he is literally following around the girl of his dreams. Filled with visions of and the pursuit of the American dream, an interesting amalgamation of Christianity and self-actualization, this is a great book, and certainly worth delving into. Recommended.

View all my reviews

Why Brave Women Win by Jill Bausch

Why Brave Women Win: Creating Your Path to Confidence and Power in the Workplace by Jill Bausch
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Why Brave Women Win: Creating Your Path to Confidence and Power in the Workplace by Jill Bausch is such an inspiring book for women. Jill worked as a senior executive for a large hotel conglomerate, experiencing what many would think of as the ultimate in life, travel, staying in exotic locals, and much more. However, as her career advanced, she felt more and more empty. This feeling prompted her to make a drastic change. In order to find fulfillment, she needed to move on. The book details her story and provides the tenor and tone you might need to make a change in your life as well and choose a different path from the one you are on as a woman. There is a multitude of examples in the book, real-life scenarios that can learn from too. Definitely, a helpful and inspiring read and is recommended.

View all my reviews

Soulful Return

SOULFUL RETURN by Fidelis O. Mkparu
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Soulful Return by Fidelis O. Mkparu is a well-written and indeed soulful book as you follow the life and decisions of Afamefuna Onochie Nwaku a successful doctor in Boston. However, his marriage is crumbling. Ultimately he has to leave his wife behind as he returns home to Nigeria, as his sister is fearing for her life. What he finds there is a world vastly different from the one he left, along with many challenges and concerns. This book has a smooth pace, and the setting is interesting and well-rendered. In the midst of the turmoil, you get a true sense of the surroundings and the characters. Great read and recommended.

View all my reviews

The Narrator by K.L. Slater

The Narrator by K.L. Slater is another great book by this author. I have passed on some of her most recent books, but this one piqued my interest so much. I love books about authors, writing, and the writing life. This book takes off quickly with the disappearance of a famous writer. The narrator of her audio books becomes involved in the search, and the story begins with plenty of twists and turns. There are plenty of complicated relationships here to dissect, the past and present, and the book held my interest. You don't know who to believe. A great read and highly recommend. Five Stars. Thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy.

Beware the Woman by Megan Abbott

Beware the Woman by Megan Abbott- Megan Abbott is a great writer, I've read several of her books and they're typically great with a fast pace and strong plots. This book fell short for me. I do like the writing style, it felt taut and highly descriptive. Kind of an edge to it. The two main characters, Jed and Jacy fell madly in love in a quick fashion. Truly a suspension of disbelief for the reader. But,

although I liked the writing style, the way Jacy described Jed, their love for each other, how they met, etc., the story itself was such a slow burn and unrealistic on so many levels. I finished reading this wondering if I had missed something along the way. A bunch of men controlling a woman, meh, kind of overdone. Of course she had to escape, but Jacy had so little common sense, it was laughable. A miss for me. Thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy.

The Quarry Girls: A Thriller by Jess Lourey

The Quarry Girls by Jess Lourey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Quarry Girls: A Thriller is a great book and one that I raced through. The small town setting and how the author set the stage in the 1970s was spot on. I grew up during that time in the Midwest and was reminded of so many things, Zayres, tv dinners, Anacin, etc. It was certainly a different time. The author does a great job of combining a somewhat bucolic atmosphere with what lies beneath the surface. I found the tunnels fascinating to ponder, while the missing girls' scenario played out in the small town. It was somewhat obvious who was responsible, but nonetheless, this book is fascinating and no more grim or disgusting than many others out there. The contrast between innocence and reality is stark here and makes the book engrossing and eminently readable. Highly recommend.

View all my reviews

Change Short & Simple: Your Guide to Personal Transformation by Christopher James Masiello

Change Short & Simple: Your Guide to Personal Transformation by Christopher James Masiello
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Change Short & Simple: Your Guide to Personal Transformation by Christopher James Masiello is a great book that will help you address the challenges we all face in the world today. Usually, we have little control over what happens all around us, but we can control our responses. With this book, you can learn how to be more adaptable when unexpected change comes your way. An insightful book and one that is written in an easy-to-read style, the information contained within is useful and relevant. With questions in each chapter to reinforce lessons learned, this book is a valuable resource. Highly recommend.

View all my reviews

Jamie's Secret by Patrice Fentiman

Jamie's Secret by Patrice Fentiman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jamie's Secret by Patrice Fentiman is a beautifully illustrated book with a lovely message. Children will enjoy trying to figure out what Jamie's secret is. The story is whimsical and heartwarming and definitely resonates on many levels. A creative book with a touch of magic that is sure to captivate young readers and adults alike. The artwork is simply gorgeous and adds so much to the story too. Highly recommend this book to everyone.

View all my reviews

The Mysteries Inside My Head by Lawrence J. Epstein

The Mysteries Inside My Head by Lawrence J. Epstein
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Mysteries Inside My Head by Lawrence J. Epstein is another great book by this prolific author. The setting is the 1960s in Sag Harbor, NY. An unlikely duo of Matthew Daniel Cresson and Robert Burnside, a famous author, meet and work together to solve a murder in the community. Matthew has the ability to see things others can't, even though he's a little slow for his age. So when a homeless man is murdered quite close to Matthew's father's bookstore, he can't help but pick up on the clues. This is an engaging read, geared toward the YA audience, but works for adults as well. You will love the setting of Long Island and the descriptive, clear writing. A must-read and recommended.

View all my reviews

How to Survive Ghosts, Gators, Whores, and Traitors: A Delia Sanchez Mystery by Diana K. C. Gill

How to Survive Ghosts, Gators, Whores and Traitors: A Delia Sanchez Mystery by Diana K. C. Gill
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

How to Survive Ghosts, Gators, Whores, and Traitors: A Delia Sanchez Mystery by Diana K. C. Gill is another great book in this series featuring Delia Sanchez. The actual meaning of whores in this book is quite unique as the author sets the stage for a fun read. Delia is such a likable character, yet seems to always find herself in all kinds of trouble. When a murder hits close to home at the hotel she manages, once again Delia is on the case. As a former beat cop with the LAPD, she is prepared for the task. Will her relationship with Gabe survive though? You'll have to read this charming book to find out. Recommended.

View all my reviews

Clara Thorn, the Witch That Was Found (Clara Thorn, #1) by Don Jones

Clara Thorn, the Witch That Was Found by Don Jones
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Clara Thorn, the Witch That was Found by Don Jones is a well-written YA book with a lot going on. Clara is the main character and does well in school. However she never quite fits in. Soon she encounters a new world, one she could never have imagined. The writing in this book is so descriptive and entrancing that you really feel you are there in the story. Even the most ordinary things become magical. There is little that is mundane here though. The setting is captivating and intriguing. All of the characters are well described, especially Clara who is a gutsy protagonist. A fun book for the YA audience and is highly recommended.

View all my reviews

Contrarium (Book 2) by Arthur Bozikas

Contrarium by Arthur Bozikas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Contrarium (The Book Glasses Series 2) by Arthur Bozikas is another entertaining book in this series. The concept of magical glasses with special powers is so unique and truly sets this book apart. Sam is such a great protagonist and relatable. This time the glasses have a curse, which makes the plot even more compelling. Such a great book, fast pace, with lots of detail, and even some history, you will immediately become immersed in the story. A worthwhile and fun read, especially appealing to the YA audience, but to others as well.

View all my reviews

Lying Beside You by Michael Robotham

Lying Beside You by Michael Robotham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lying Beside You by Michael Robotham is another great book by this author. As part of the series, this book continues the story of Evie and Cryus. I've yet to read the previous books and now I desperately want to because this one was so good. Michael Robotham is a master at writing compelling mysteries mixed with a police procedural slant. I have read most of his books. The characters here are well developed with tragic pasts. Evie stands out in particular as quirky, and off-the-charts damaged. Mixed in with that is the release of Cryus' brother Elias, who murdered his family, and you have a story with a wealth of dark undertone and dread. I love this book and will likely read it again to fully grab on to every word again. Highly recommend.

View all my reviews

Don't Just Fly, Soar by Kelly Markey

Don't Just Fly, SOAR: The Inspiration and tools you need to rise above adversity and create a life by design by Kelly Markey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Don't Just Fly, SOAR: The Inspiration and tools you need to rise above adversity and create a life by design by Kelly Markey is a well-written testimony and memoir of the author's life thus far. Rather than rolling over and bending to adversity, the author shows you how to embrace challenges and overcome them. Within the most intense and sometimes negative experiences of your life, you can often find yourself and become a better person. This memoir will help you define your purpose in life, learn from lessons in your life, create better and more meaningful relationships, design your future, and thrive even though life often feels unfair. A powerful and uplifting book, this one is highly recommended.

View all my reviews

Vision to Reality: Stop Working, Start Living by Curtis L. Jenkins

Vision to Reality: Stop Working, Start Living by Curtis L. Jenkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Vision to Reality: Stop Working, Start Living by Curtis L. Jenkins is an interesting read and one that rises above most business books out there. The author espouses that there are specific steps you can take to grow and sustain your business to reach new levels of success. With the Realization Framework Experience, a specific program whereby you learn the following: how to visualize the future, how to evaluate the people who are directly involved in making your vision a reality, how to calculate and assess necessary cash flow, how to clarify or create a clear plan for the future, and finally, how to realize the future, you can improve your business success. With this methodology you can get your business back on track, creating the vision and success you initially envisioned when you started out. This book is written in a clear and encouraging manner, is full of great advice, and is positive. Highly recommended for entrepreneurs struggling to move to the next level.

View all my reviews

Soul Cure by Gregory Dickow

Soul Cure: How to Heal Your Pain and Discover Your Purpose by Gregory Dickow is an extremely timely book, given the state of the world today. With a pandemic, crime, weather disasters, and more, it's hard not to feel stressed all the time. The pages of this book and the author's thoughts contained within offer a bit of solace and comfort in this troubling world. There's plenty of down to Earth insight here, all presented within the framework of a loving God, a loving creator. Define and give more meaning to your life by delving into the positive affirmative message here. What you focus on, you become. Turn your thinking around and read the wise words of Gregory, help yourself fully live your life by changing your thoughts and your focus. Embrace God's love in your life, and you too can experience a magical change. Highly recommend.

The Lightning Tree by Lene Fogelberg

The Lightning Tree (The NI Revolution Trilogy Book 1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1648871730l/60735189._SX98_.jpg" />The Lightning Tree by Lene Fogelberg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Lightning Tree (The NI Revolution Trilogy Book 1) by Lene Fogelberg features the teenage sisters of Flora and Fauna. A horrible accident occurs, and soon Flora finds herself on her own. The one saving grace is her neighbor Carl, with whom she is friends. However, things start to become troubling as bodies are piling up, and Carl is the main suspect. Flora doesn't believe this of course, and the stage is set for an intriguing story that combines many elements from nature, romance, and trauma to the supernatural. The writing manages to capture the teenage angst, the unpredictability of what might happen, and a certain level of tension. This book is more than an environmental thriller; it's a well-executed and captivating read suitable for both teenage and adult audiences. Recommended.

View all my reviews

Pulse -Book One by B.A. Bellec

Pulse by B.A. Bellec
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pulse-Book One by B.A. Bellec is one of those creepy books that somehow seem as though it could happen in real life and not too far off in the future. Pulse itself is a fictional company based on a model of the largest corporations of today. The power that these companies wield over society and culture is huge, and this book reads as a condemnation of those companies woven into a fictional story. The opening email is eerie and disturbing setting the stage for this creative and riveting book. Set in the dystopian future of 2040, the story is a great combination of a huge music festival, an evil company, and a menacing creature. The salient quotes before each chapter are all intriguing in their way as well. Add in finely wrought characters like Pietro and you have a mesmerizing book. A must-read book and one that will have you questioning many things about society today and what the future may hold.

View all my reviews

Love and Other Sins by Emilia Ares

Love and Other Sins by Emilia Ares
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Love and Other Sins by Emilia Ares is definitely an intense book. Mina and Oliver's lives come together as they both are looking to build something different. This is an interesting portrayal of teenage life if a little bleak. Topics like child abuse, sexual assault, abortion, and more are touched upon, making this an intense read. Sometimes it feels like the inclusion of all of these topics makes the book over the top, and too heavy to read. Overall though the progression of a teenage relationship is documented well and explored fully in this story. While the writing is thorough, at times it feels a bit stiff, but that may have been intended. A tough read and one that delves into some heavy issues.

View all my reviews

Love on the Line 2 (Women at Work #2) by Kirsten Fullmer

Love on the Line 2 by Kirsten Fullmer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love on the Line 2 (The Women at Work Series) by Kirsten Fullmer is such a well-written modern coming-of-age romance story. The setting is completely unique, and the characters of Rooster and Andy are so well described and realistic. You truly get to know them and their nuanced relationship quite well. You get completely involved in how they manage both work and their developing relationship along with other challenges. The story is compelling and shows the tests many people face in their day-to-day lives with a lot of forces against them. Highly recommend it for a great read in a different kind of setting.

View all my reviews

The Human Sales Factor: The H2H Equation for Connecting, Persuading, and Closing the Deal by Lance Tyson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Human Sales Factor: The H2H Equation for Connecting, Persuading, and Closing the Deal by Lance Tyson is a well-written business book with a focus on getting the sale. In many instances of your life, you're selling yourself more than selling the product or service you are focusing on. Whether you're trying to convince someone to do you a favor or need help with a project, in essence, you are selling yourself. This is truly an eye-opening approach to the world of sales. The mirror and window analogy is on point and one to keep in mind as you approach selling your customers. Eminently readable, this is a first-rate book about the sales process and one that will not only help in business but in your personal life as well.

View all my reviews

Building A Coaching Culture : How Managers As Coaches Can Include And Develop New Employees Successfully by Andreas von der Heydt

Building A Coaching Culture : How Managers As Coaches Can Include And Develop New Employees Successfully by Andreas von der Heydt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Building A Coaching Culture : How Managers As Coaches Can Include And Develop New Employees Successfully by Andreas von der Heydt is a to the point and easy to read book. It successfully addresses the need to create a coaching culture in any business in order to thrive. The book includes a five-step plan that you can implement within your own organization to capitalize on the author's guidance. Truly a must-read for any business leader who is looking to improve the management of employees and tackle problems head-on as they occur. The best way to grow your business is through effective coaching of employees which will not only help them but your overall business model as well. Recommended.

View all my reviews

Tight Five by Dan Spencer

Tight Five by Dan Spencer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tight Five by Dan Spencer is a fun read that will have you laughing out loud in spots, and commiserating in others. Loosely based on the author's experience in comedy clubs and more, this book reads well as the various comedians take a shot at the big time. The characters are well described, there is no one specific type of comedian and you can easily relate to their foibles and follies. The author paints a vivid picture of the comedy scene in the 1980s while some people made it big and others failed miserably. The details of Ben Coble's life are poignant and real, making him such a relatable character. Love this book and all that it explores on a human level. Highly recommend.

View all my reviews

Revenge of Alpha Centauri: A Fixed Star Mystery by LN Gruer

Revenge of Alpha Centauri: A Fixed Star Mystery by LN Gruer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Revenge of Alpha Centauri: A Fixed Star Mystery by LN Gruer is a rapid-fire mystery filled with crazy characters, most notably, Viviana the lead. A former stripper and recovering addict, she grapples with turning fifty while commiserating with her much older friends, Katherine and Sandi. Much of the focus here is on astrology, Wicca, crystals, and the like, and if you're into that kind of thing, this is the perfect book for you to dive into. If you're not into all that, it might take a few chapters to get engaged. However, the writing is crisp, plenty of fun is to be had, while the betrayal and relationships are pretty compelling. Viviana has a lot going on in her life, and it's great getting to know her as she overcomes challenges and obstacles. Recommend.

View all my reviews