Kali Ma: A Collection of Short Stories by El.T. Fullah

Kali Ma: A Collection of Short Stories by El.T. Fullah
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Exploring Profound Human Experiences: "Kali Ma" by El.T. Fullah is a well-written and supremely scary collection of stories. The opening story, "The Violinist's Concert" sets the stage for what is to come.

In the mesmerizing anthology "Kali Ma," El.T. Fullah adeptly navigates the intricate labyrinth of human experiences, presenting readers with a collection of dark, contemplative, and emotionally gripping tales. This anthology stands as a testament to Fullah's exceptional storytelling prowess, with each short story embarking on a unique thematic journey. "Kali Ma" invites readers to embark on a compelling and thought-provoking odyssey, skillfully blending emotional depth, vivid imagery, and meticulously crafted narratives that often delve into social critique.

A standout strength of "Kali Ma" lies in Fullah's remarkable capacity to encapsulate the psychological states of diverse characters and settings in each narrative. Whether plumbing the depths of mystery and sorrow or exposing nuanced conflicts within the confines of a concise format, the author ingeniously weaves a tapestry of creative upheaval that resonates deeply with aficionados of horror and the macabre. The stories are meticulously detailed, particularly in their extensions, immersing readers in the realms of the enigmatic.

Fullah's writing style is evocative and thematically transgressive, creating a vibrant atmosphere that breathes life into each short tale. Fearlessly, the author tackles a wide spectrum of contemporary issues, including identity, gender, religion, and global politics. The anthology's structure is a testament to Fullah's skill, with each story capable of standing alone while also contributing to the overarching thematic unity of the book.

Finally, "Kali Ma" offers a literary journey that challenges, provokes thought, and keeps readers on the edge of their seats. El.T. Fullah's ability to blend profound storytelling with social commentary makes this anthology an excellent choice for those seeking a captivating and thought-provoking read. With its poignant exploration of the human condition, "Kali Ma" resonates as a compelling work that will leave readers contemplating its themes long after they've turned the final page.

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Why They Stay: Sex Scandals, Deals, and Hidden Agendas of Eight Political Wives by Anne Michaud

Why They Stay: Sex Scandals, Deals, and Hidden Agendas of Eight Political Wives by Anne Michaud attempts to answer the age-old question of why women stay with bad men. With a wealth of research, the author presents a formidable answer throughout this book. With a vast amount of history to draw from, the book examines the origins of a patriarchal way of doing things, from the British monarchy to present-day politics. Women stay for a variety of reasons that range from the pursuit of a greater good beyond their relationship to power and control. This book is a fascinating look at prominent women throughout history who have stayed with powerful men, and what their motivations were and are. From Eleanor Roosevelt to Melania Trump, the author covers it all. A fascinating read and one that should be on every bookshelf for years to come.

BELONGING TO YOURSELF: How Self-Love, Wisdom, and Simple Changes Can Transform Your Life by Christopher Terzakos

BELONGING TO YOURSELF: How Self-Love, Wisdom, and Simple Changes Can Transform Your Life by Christopher Terzakos
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

BELONGING TO YOURSELF: How Self-Love, Wisdom, and Simple Changes Can Transform Your Life by Christopher Terzakos is such a great book and quite revelatory. The author opens up about his life and his transformation. He found that he was experiencing a lot of pain in his life, and chose to turn inward. This change gave him the ability to love himself first, put himself first, and from there positive changes started to take place. Definitely, a thought-provoking read because everyone experiences difficulties in life. Some of them are paralyzing as we struggle. With a little introspection and self-love, you can turn your life around just like the author.

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THE 10-MINUTE BUDGET: The Fastest, Simplest, And Most Effective Way To Manage Your Money Without Personal Sacrifice, Guilt, Or Shame by David Lewis

THE 10-MINUTE BUDGET: The Fastest, Simplest, And Most Effective Way To Manage Your Money Without Personal Sacrifice, Guilt, Or Shame by David Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A key tool for efficient money management is David Lewis' book, The 10-Minutes Budget: The Fastest, Simplest, and Most Effective Way To Manage Your Money Without Personal Sacrifice, Guilt, Or Shame. It describes a quick monthly budgeting procedure that takes no more than 10 minutes to calculate savings based on monthly spending for things like food, utilities, transportation, housing, education, and entertainment. To make the process even simpler, the author offers a helpful and easy-to-use budgeting template. This book is great for anyone on the verge of adulthood and beyond to better their financial situation right now and take into consideration their future. Full of great advice in a simple format. Highly recommended.

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The Dead Tell Lies by J. F. Kirwan

The Dead Tell Lies by J.F. Kirwan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Dead Tell Lies by J.F. Kirwan is a well-written gripping psychological thriller within the confines of New Scotland Yard. Here, psychologist Greg Adams faces a difficult task: halting the murderous spree of The Divine, a ruthless serial killer. But his world crumbles when he discovers his own wife, Kate, unbelievably has fallen victim to another serial murderer known as The Dreamer. Greg's quest to capture The Dreamer ends in failure, forcing him to resign in despair. Yet, he's granted a chance at redemption as he's reinstated to investigate the case that haunts him. This dark pursuit ignites a relentless fire within him, turning him into an unlikely murderer. The story revolves around Greg Adams, a relatable character who must confront his own demons and act in unfathomable ways. To prevent further bloodshed, he's compelled to revisit the past, delving into the lives of the six murderers he once brought to justice. In this harrowing journey, he seeks to save lives, including his own, from the looming specter of death. Highly recommend it for a story you will long remember for its dark and evocative overtones.

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Fallen by P. Abbott

The book "Fallen" gives you a captivating perspective on the alien invasion scenario and humanity's response to initial contact. This narrative goes beyond conventional science fiction, catering to thinking minds. It also serves as an exploration of the protagonist's potential for redemption and deliverance. This central character is definitely human, defying some of the alien-fighting stereotypes. Brendan grapples with his faith, authority figures, his haunted military past, and even the "enemy." They deviate from the clichéd vision of uniform alien aggressors. Their complexities and internal struggles are emphasized, diverging from the stereotype of mindless city-razing creatures. Here, the enemy isn't the expected goggle-eyed reptilian; rather, they resemble humanity in ways that provoke reflection. The novel delves into the intricacies of cosmic confrontation, introspection, and the parallels that blur the line between 'us' and 'them'. Recommended.

A Familiar Stranger by A.R. Torre

"A Familiar Stranger" by A.R. Torre unveils the life of Lillian Smith, a mother and obituary writer leading an uneventful existence. Everything changes when she meets David Laurent in a coffee shop, leading her into an affair that forces her to create a new identity. As their liaison intensifies, her web of lies unravels, and both her worlds spiral out of control. But Lillian isn't the sole double-life protagonist, and a death looms. The story keeps readers guessing, cleverly weaving the narrative towards a suspenseful conclusion. Torre primarily employs Lillian's perspective, revealing her complexity, dark humor, and intriguing relationships. Her husband, Mike, also hides secrets, making for a gripping and unexpected read.

Intelligent Digital Ecosystems by Janak Alford

Intelligent Digital Ecosystems: How Rethinking Technology Will Expand Your Mind and Change Your World by Janak Alford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The "Intelligent Digital Ecosystem by Janak Alford is a well-written and deeply thoughtful book that criticizes the widespread use of technology by stressing its detrimental impacts on society's mental and physical health as well as the environment and economy. However, Alford offers a plan for reconstructing digital life and improving it by borrowing insight from the human microbiome. Readers may increase their personal responsibility and intelligence by embracing sophisticated ecosystems, which will motivate them to become the designers of an improved digital future and take advantage of endless prospects. This is a highly stimulating and engaging read, one to examine over and over again. Full of great information and thought-provoking, this book is highly recommended.

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The Power of Dao : A Timeless Guide to Happiness and Harmony by Lou Marinoff

The Power of Dao: A Timeless Guide to Happiness and Harmony by Lou Marinoff is a well-written and powerful book. This thought-provoking book encourages introspection and inspires a reevaluation of one's life direction. Focused on Lao Tzu's wisdom, its previously unknown lessons provide a valuable viewpoint, perhaps directing one to a deep reawakening. Surprisingly, these old principles are still relevant today, enhancing the book's effect. This book provides useful ideas and practical tools for reaching that elusive equilibrium we are all seeking. Although the route may be difficult, the benefits it offers are undeniably worthwhile. Highly recommend for a great read and one that could possibly change your life.

All About Magic- Beginnings by Kim Woods

All About Magic - beginnings by Kim Woods
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

All About Magic-Beginnings by Kim Woods is a well-written transformative journey that awakens you to your inner magic. With a wealth of experience, the author offers practical guidance on infusing magic into daily life, covering divination, and connecting to your inner guide. She empowers readers to explore these foundational elements, encouraging them to find what resonates. Kim's intuitive and astrological expertise lends depth to the content, creating a genuine desire to help you grow. This book teaches how to integrate magic into everyday existence, promoting self-discovery and the belief that magic is an innate part of us all. Truly a magical book, with a positive energy to it, and highly recommend it.

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The Last Request by Brandon Barrows

The Last Request by Brandon Barrows
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Brandon Barrows' gripping novel, "The Last Request," delves into the depths of classic psychological suspense, ensnaring readers in its intricate web of intrigue. Nestled within the remote confines of an Alaskan mansion, the narrative orbits around Holly Shaw and her conniving cousins, all drawn together by the magnetic allure of a staggering $60 million inheritance. The cousins themselves are not close, and this element echoes and adds a sense of remoteness to the narrative as well. However, the inheritance comes with an ominous caveat: they must remain confined within the ancestral mansion until the impending demise of their great aunt, Lydia. As a series of gruesome murders begin to unravel the serenity of their seclusion, the entire household becomes a cauldron of suspicion.

Barrows demonstrates his narrative prowess by deftly weaving a tapestry of tension, ensnaring readers in a relentless guessing game that persists until the final page. The characters are intricately nuanced, not entirely likable, with each harboring clandestine agendas, turning the narrative into a tantalizing whodunit that keeps readers on tenterhooks. The mansion's desolate locale further augments the suspense, immersing readers in the overwhelming desperation that grips the characters.

Overall, "The Last Request" offers an irresistible literary cocktail, seamlessly blending themes of guilt, greed, and temptation into a high-stakes battle for survival. A compelling read that will resonate deeply with aficionados of psychological thrillers, it offers a narrative that is as enigmatic as it is beguiling. Barrows' narrative premise, initially peculiar, grows increasingly surreal as the plot unfurls. The constant undercurrent of suspense keeps readers perpetually on their toes, thwarting their attempts to untangle the intricate web of deceit.

The numerous plot twists peppered throughout the narrative continually defy expectations, leaving readers yearning for more, page after page. While Barrows' writing is nothing short of excellent, and his storyline remains refreshingly innovative, some readers may find the denouement slightly rushed, yearning for a more languid and expansive exploration of the story's final revelations. Nevertheless, "The Last Request" stands as a testament to Barrows' mastery of the psychological thriller genre, and its labyrinthine narrative will leave an indelible mark on all who dare to embark on this chilling literary journey.

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Cosmic Egg Inc.

Cosmic Egg Inc. is such a fun book to read and quite engaging. In the bustling metropolis of New York, a young man named Peter Kane, still in the early stages of his college journey as a sophomore, found himself thrust into a surreal and extraordinary narrative. His summer was initially intended to be a simple retreat with his aunt on Long Island, coupled with his earnest endeavors at a youth shelter. Little did he know that fate had other plans in store. The turning point occurred at a lavish Hamptons mansion, where Peter's life took a peculiar and unforeseeable turn. In a moment of inexplicable mystique, a shadowy figure materialized before him, bearing the weighty proclamation that he, Peter Kane, held the fate of the entire world in his hands. An enigmatic mission, one that demanded his unwavering commitment, was now entrusted to him. To aid Peter on this bewildering journey, a most peculiar companion emerged: Sam, an artificial intelligence-infused entity with a penchant for witty quips. Sam's demeanor oscillated between bossiness and the colloquial language of the bro-culture, a combination that grated on Peter's nerves. Sam himself bemoaned his programmed personality, likening it to the amalgamation of Reddit and YouTube, crafted by a bunch of nerds who slanted him toward smart-alecky, irritating wisecracks. In parallel, another man named Vernon Hines embarked on a different but equally surreal odyssey. His path to revelation came as he attempted to take his own life, only to be interrupted by a celestial presence. This otherworldly entity, remarkably resembling the iconic Morgan Freeman, imparted a monumental duty upon Vernon: the salvation of planet Earth. His guide on this divine quest was none other than Jesus himself, tasked with assisting him in the battle against an impending malevolent force. As Peter grappled with the surreal question of whether his experiences were real or if he existed within a complex computer simulation, Vernon began to question the true nature of his religious mission, discovering that reality might not align with his initial beliefs. Despite the gravity of its subject matter, this fast-paced narrative retained a lighthearted tone throughout. It navigated the intricate web of interconnected storylines, managing to maintain a semblance of grounding while delving into mind-bending possibilities. The initial portions of the novel provided an extensive foundation, setting the stage for the multifaceted layers of the scenario. However, as the story unfolded, the author skillfully injected surprises and revelations, making the latter half of the tale more accessible and engrossing. The culmination of the narrative did not fail to deliver a satisfying twist. Ultimately, readers will find themselves immersed in an engaging and whimsical science fiction tale, guided by two quite implausible heroes on their extraordinary journey to save the world.

Yours, Mine & Ours: Estate Planning for People in Blended or Stepfamilies (Planning Your Future Book 2) by L. Paul Hood

Yours, Mine & Ours: Estate Planning for People in Blended or Stepfamilies by L. Paul Hood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"Yours, Mine & Ours: Estate Planning for Blended Families" by L. Paul Hood is an invaluable self-help guide that offers comprehensive insights into the intricate world of estate planning for couples in blended or stepfamilies. With a wealth of expertise, Hood masterfully demystifies the process, empowering readers to create wills that align with their deepest desires.

Within the pages of this enlightening book, Hood delves into a multitude of critical topics. He provides a comprehensive overview of various types of properties and offers a lucid explanation of the myriad documents one is likely to encounter throughout the estate planning journey. The author doesn't shy away from addressing the harsh reality that many estate plans fail, shedding light on the common pitfalls and providing essential guidance to avoid them.

One of the standout features of "Yours, Mine & Ours" is Hood's nuanced approach to wealth disparity within blended families. He offers insightful advice, tailored to individual circumstances, ensuring that every reader, regardless of their financial standing, can navigate the complexities of estate planning effectively.

Through illuminating real-life examples, Hood exhibits a deep understanding of the diverse needs and dynamics of blended families. He approaches this sensitive and crucial subject matter with an abundance of compassion and care, demonstrating his genuine commitment to helping readers find optimal solutions for their unique situations.

For anyone grappling with the complexities of estate planning in a blended family, this book is a must-read. Having witnessed firsthand how such planning can lead to family discord, I wholeheartedly endorse "Yours, Mine & Ours" as an essential resource. Hood's expertise will not only guide you in selecting a proficient estate planning professional but also equip you with a solid foundation in the fundamentals, enabling you to make informed decisions that best serve the intricacies of your family dynamics.

In conclusion, "Yours, Mine & Ours: Estate Planning for Blended Families" is a beacon of clarity and guidance in a realm often fraught with confusion and uncertainty. L. Paul Hood's wealth of knowledge and compassionate approach make this book an indispensable companion for those seeking to secure the future of their blended families with wisdom and confidence.

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