New Book Reviews Blog Pages

Back to the Light – A Guide to your Awakening by Simone Illi

consouller,  alternative therapy healing book, self help, psychology guide, meditation guide, selffinding, simon illi dobeli, back to the light, guide to your awakening
About the Book
Simone Illi's "Back to the Light - A Guide to Your Awakening" is a powerful self-help book that teaches readers to use meditation and alternative therapies to heal themselves.

Illi learned from her own experience of overcoming addiction, depression, and unhappiness with alternative methods of healing, including meditation. Illi has years of experience in helping people find joy, happiness, and freedom from pain as she has been holding seminars in Cyprus for four years as well as six years of experience in her home country of Switzerland.

When asked to describe her book, Illi states it is A" book that can heal. A book that speaks the truth. A book that brings knowledge. A book that wants to be lived. A book that you can feel. A book full of wonders This book is intended for anyone who wants to learn more about themselves, but also as a basis for any self-discovery or healing seminar. "

The author incorporates a lot information about using energy, new age techniques, and meditation to heal. In a recent author interview, Illi states that her goal in her book is "make my knowledge available to many people and to explain how easy it is to heal one's soul and rediscover one's light so that life can be lived in abundance! My experience shows that nothing is as simple as living in love, joy, abundance and ease once you have recognized and understood what life is really about!"


One of the main aspects that Illi covers is how modern medicine has monopolized healing. She covers various ways to heal without the use of medication. Her seminars delve into treating pain with unique techniques that have made dramatic improvements in people's lives. For fans of Illi's work, they will be eager to learn that much of her German work will be translated into English.

In summary, if you're looking for a book that teaches you how to heal and improve your life with a new age approach involving meditation and energy, you'll love Simone Illi's "Back to the Light - A Guide to Your Awakening." 

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The Oracle's Journal by Dimitri Liountris

urban fantasy novel, young adult fantasy; lengthy novel, Dimitri liountris, urban fantasy author, urban fantasy book, urban fantasy genre, urban fantasy
Book Description
Suddenly, it’s a world flooded with magic and danger draws closer with every passing second. When the powers of sixteen gods are inherited by four teenagers, destruction is not far behind. 

In Maxton City, everything changes in the blink of an eye. When a portal to the Chaos Realm – a place of torment, a world of horrors – opens up over Maxton City Park, the monsters begin to appear. Then comes the First Queen of Earth. 

Unbeknownst to anyone, four teenagers have found the means to battling these enemies deep in the Cradle of Humankind. They have found the Amulets of the Spirits, artefacts that house the souls of long-dead gods and grant the four powers beyond their wildest dreams, creating the new Guardians. Using these amulets, they can take the forms of the gods, and wield power that would incinerate mortals. But even that might not be enough… 

Serena, the First Queen, the Demon Queen, is searching for the most powerful artefact in existence, an artefact capable of granting the power of a god: The Oracle’s Journal. If she ascends, then not even the guardians can stop her. 

And there’ll be no gods to help them for what comes next…

About the Book

"The Oracle's Journal," by Dimitri Liountris is an urban fantasy novel with interesting characters, an imaginative premise, and an engaging plot.

The story is set into motion when the powers of gods are given to four teenagers -- Blake Holden, Monique Bishop, and Jen and Eric Storm. When the book opens, the characters are your typical teenagers, but they come into their own once they realize magic has been woven throughout their lives and been affecting their interactions. Each character is an individual and brings their own unique attributes to the table. Not only does the reader get to see the unique attributes of each individual from the start, but also each characters' evolution as the story progresses. The characters have an array of powers, ranging from the elements (fire, water, wind, etc) to motion powers, such as telekinesis and gravity control. The seemingly normal teenagers are transformed into the guardians of sixteen different realms, and the readers gets to come along for the journey.


Pitted against the teenagers is a formidable antagonist -- Serena -- who used to be queen of Earth a hundred thousand years ago and now will stop at nothing to get her throne back. Unfortunately for the guardians, Serena is aided by powerful knights. To regain her power, Serena must search for the Oracle’s Journal, a book filled with several powerful spells, including one that can make Serena a goddess. One of the great things about Serena is she is a villain the reader can understand, not simply root against and hate. Her powers include six magical elements, including motion, lightning, and wind, and additionally, she is an expert sword fighter. Furthermore, she has been toughened by her one-hundred-thousand years in the hellish Chaos Realm.


The book is 1,026 pages, but the writing style, interesting characters, and fascinating settings make it not a difficult read. The books is filled with action, magic, and lots of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. Liountris shines with imaginative scenarios and a fast-paced plot. In short, if you're a fan of urban fantasy, you'll enjoy "The Oracle's Journal."


Links

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Forever Young: A Mother's Story of Life After Suicide by Sharon Truesdale with Sue Leonard

Mental health, suicide, grief, loss, self care, support, support after suicide, affected by suicide, memoir mental health, mother’s story, Sharon tresdale, sue leonard
About the Book
“Forever Young A Mother's Story of Life after Suicide” by Sharon Truesdale with Sue Leonard is a book about finding a new way to live after the loss of a loved one to suicide.

With affecting, heartfelt writing, Sharon Truesdale shares about her experience with the grieving process after her son, seventeen-year-old Matthew Truesdale, took his own life. This is a powerful story of loss, sadness, hope, and moving forward. Truesdale shares her  most personal feelings, thoughts and behaviors with the hope that her story will help others and help break the stigma attached to mental health illness and suicide.

This book would be an important read for a wide range of people, from people with mental health illness to those affected by suicide or anyone who just wants to learn more about mental health. In a recent author interview, Truesdale shares her personal experience of working through her grieving process by reading books, attended a Bereaved by Suicide support group. worked with a counselor for nine months,  and joining online support groups. Additionally, Truesdale speaks about learning mindfulness to help her understand the new place where she was in life. 

The main lesson from Truesdale's journey was learning self-love, kindness, forgiveness, and self-care to help with existing in the present and not dwelling in the past. A main component of Truesdale's story is celebrating Matthew's life, which she does in part by meeting up with Matthew's friends on his anniversary and on his birthday, sharing stories, and spending time remembering Matthew. Additionally, Matthew's Facebook has become a memorial page and where loved ones share memories, photos and thoughts to Matthew and with each other.

In a recent interview, Truesdale said her advice for someone who has been affected by suicide is to "TALK, TALK, TALK  to friends, family, anyone. You do not have to suffer in silence or be alone. There are services out there who can help. If you try one and you haven’t connected with it, try another. Find one that fits." Truesdale also recommends those supporting someone affected by suicide to "Listen without judgement and without feeling the need to advise. Just be there."

The most powerful aspect of the book is Truesdale's authenticity. She does an excellent job of allowing the reader to see her perspective and learn from her experience.  Whether you've been affected by suicide, have issues with mental health, or just would like to learn more about mental health, then you definitely need to check out "Forever Young: A Mother's Story of Life After Suicide" by Sharon Truesdale with Sue Leonard.

Book Description
When seventeen-year-old Matthew Truesdale took his own life, his devastated mother, Sharon, had to find a new way to live. The grieving process was unexpectedly hard – and there were times she feared she was losing her mind. It wasn’t until she learned to give herself love, that life became bearable again. Through recounting this, and celebrating her son’s short life, Sharon hopes to give hope to everyone who had been affected by suicide.


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Who Am I? by Blake Sherrie

blake sherrie, who am i book, motivational kid's book, motivational children's book, inspire children, encourage children, encourage kid's lit, quien soy book
About the  Book
Blake Sherrie's "Who Am I?" is a motivational children’s book that is sure to inspire children from toddler-age to elementary-school age. 

This inspiring story follows two main characters who are siblings named Evan (who is a problem solver) and Eden. Evan is an example of someone who always strives to help others! Additionally, there are two twins, named Payton and Paige. One of the strengths of the book is that is fun to read yet also has many important lessons for children. The story motivates and encourages children to explore their identity with respect for themselves and others. The story also encourages positive behavior, building character, and promotes positive self awareness. The author strives to have a lasting impact on the next generation and generations to come by building confidence and self-esteem. With fun, engaging writing,  Blake Sherrie encourages children to think smart and dream big.

In a recent writer interview, Blake Sherrie said writing the book reminded her to “Never allow fear to detour your trajectory, when life’s waiting on the one thing that most tend to avoid ... change."

blake sherrie, who am i book, motivational kid's book, motivational children's book, inspire children, encourage children, encourage kid's lit, quien soy book
Children's motivational author Blake Sherrie.


Sherrie also said with her writing her"goal is to always inspire and encourage children to do their best. Reaching for the stars should be a challenge but, they can have fun in the process." Sherrie cites her writing influences as Dr. Seuss, Hans Augusto, and Margret Rey. Her imaginative story-telling is testament to her influences! 

Another strength of "Who Am I?" is the colorful, eye-catching illustrations done by Christina Brown. They complement the wonderful story and are sure to keep even the youngest of children engaged with the story. The illustrations help young readers learn the lesson of loving themselves and treating people how they want to be treated.

One of the most interesting aspects of the book is that is in two languages! Whether you're bilingual or just speak English or Spanish, you'll love being able to read the book in two languages. In fact, you can even learn Spanish or English from the book! Children, who are especially good at learning a new language, will enjoy practicing words in a new language! 

Sherrie's passion for children's literature is evident in the writing. Although she initially started writing a manuscript for adults, her love of working with children and inspiring them compelled her to write stories that motivate children and teach them valuable lessons. For fans of Sherrie's work, they will be delighted to know she is working on a character book series with a book about teamwork and another on helping others.

If you're looking for an inspiring, fun children's book that will inspire and motivate children, then look no further than "Who Am I?" by Blake Sherrie.

About the Author 

Blake Sherrie is a children’s author who writes motivational help book that inspire students. She is a native of Baltimore that believes in times of uncertainty and negativity we all must remember these two words---dignity and respect. She believes you must never lose focus because dignity and respect for one another will surpass the evil that you encounter in some people’s hearts. You can contact me via email at blakesherriebooks@gmail.com. 

Book Description

“Who Am I?” is a motivational book encouraging children to explore their identity through respect for self and others, positive behavior, and character building. Promoting positive self awareness will have a lasting impact on our next generation and generations to follow. Let’s inspire the youth in your life to affirm who they are with confidence! 

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The Power of Thanksgiving: A Blueprint for Contentment, Fulfillment, and Well-Being through Gratitude by Dr. Joyce Addo-Atuah

Christian Inspirational book, Thanking God for everything, Thanking people, Spiritual contentment, Stories of thankfulness,
About the Book
Dr. Joyce Addo-Atuah's “The Power of Thanksgiving: A Blueprint for Contentment, Fulfillment, and Well-Being through Gratitude" is an inspirational Christian book that teaches you how to change your life by finding gratitude and contentment.

The book opens with the basics of being thankful, such as why we should be thankful, what we should be thankful for and how to express this gratitude. Additionally, it teaches you how to create a lifestyle of gratitude that impacts all aspects of your day-to-day life. 

One of the strengths of the book is its broad appeal. Anyone, no matter where you are in your life, can benefit from following Dr. Addo-Atuah's steps to finding gratitude in their day-to-day life. By following the steps in the book, the reader is able to appreciate various aspects of their life, leading to more gratitude, happiness, and contentment, regardless of their current situation. Although the book has a lot of information from a Christian perspective, readers of different faiths can appreciate the universal nature of the principles of gratitude and thankfulness. The book is organized in a way that each chapter focuses on a particular theme. For instance, Chapter 5 describes how to benefit from developing and demonstrating gratitude, Chapter 6 describes how the reader will experience the health and social benefits of a gratitude lifestyle, and Chapter 7 includes a four-step call-to-action. Throughout the book, Dr. Addo-Atuah references information from science, scripture, and the author's own perspective, so everyone has something they can relate to. Another strength of the book is the amount of inspiring scriptures and hymns in the book, all of which share a theme of thanksgiving and gratitude. Dr. Addo-Atuah tailored the selection of scripture to the specific topic she is discussing at the time, allowing the reader to make connections between Biblical events and principles. King David is referenced often as an example of someone who continually demonstrates gratitude toward God. Dr. Addo-Atuah's background as a college professor is evident throughout the book as she writes in a professional yet approachable style with clear, concise language.

Another important aspect of Dr. Addo-Atuah's mission is her desire to help the rural people of Ghana. Reader's can help Dr. Addo-Atuah's vision by posting reviews of the book and also encouraging their family and friends to also get involved. The book is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Books-a-Million, Hudson books, and independent bookstores supplied by Ingram Spark. There is also an audiobook version, which is available through Amazon, Audible, iTunes and many other audiobook outlets. Additionally, the book will be on a seven-day Kindle countdown deal on Amazon for the Kindle version beginning on Friday, September 13 with a starting price of $1.99 which will be increased gradually through to September 20, 2019 when it returns to the normal retail price of $5.99.

In summary, if you're looking to change your life by practicing gratitude every day, you need to pick up your copy of "Thanksgiving: A Blueprint for Contentment, Fulfillment, and Well-Being through Gratitude" by Dr. Joyce Addo-Atuah.

Hometown: The Puget Sound Kids of the 1990s by Ian Primmer

ian primmer, hometown the Puget sound kids of the 1990s, coming of age, pacific northwest author, Washington state author, 1990s pnw, pnw novel, grunge novel
About the Book
Ian Primmer's novella, “Hometown: The Puget Sound Kids of the 1990s," is a fun, fast-paced coming-of-age story set in 1990s Pacific Northwest.

The story follows a Cody Muller, a young misfit who finds himself in various trials, struggles, and adventures as he learns more about himself. In a sense, Cody is the embodiment of the experience of growing up in the 1990s in the Pacific Northwest. His life is a roller coaster of mistakes and loss. From suicide attempts to acts of mischief, Cody is perpetually getting himself in trouble. Cody has a desire to be a better person and make the right decisions, but he is unable to control his behavior.


One of the strengths of the novella is it makes you feel like you are in 1990s Pacific Northwest. Primmer draws on his own experience, having grown up in the Pacific Northwest during the '90s, to capture the setting. Additionally, Primmer's writing draws inspiration from the grunge movement, made famous by Temple of the Dog, Pearl Jam, and Nirvana.


Throughout the story, Primmer does an excellent job of capturing the experience of growing up. The universality of youth is navigated with affecting characters and powerful writing. Although, as a novella, this is a relatively quick read, Primmer is able to really develop the characters and connect the reader with each character's story. 


For fans of Primmer's writing, you won't have to wait long for another book. In a recent writer interview, Primmer stated he's working on another book, titled“Hang 'Em High," about the modern punishment for an active shooter.


In conclusion, if you're looking for an interesting, quick read in the coming-of-age genre, you'll enjoy Ian Primmer's "Hometown: The Puget Sound Kids of the 1990s."



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San Francisco Golden Crime by Kelli L. Decker

San Francisco, Mystery books, Golden Gate Bridge, Dogs, Thriller Book, San Francisco Tourist, Hawk Hill, Murder Mystery, Short Reads, Good Reads, kelli l decker, san francisco golden crime
About the Book
Kelli L. Decker's "San Francisco Golden Crime" is an edge-of-year-seat murder mystery novel set in San Francisco, California.

The story follows Mike, an architect who recently relocated to the Bay Area from Sedona, AZ, and his loyal Black Labrador, Farley. On a walk in the Marin Headlands, Farley makes a startling discovery that upends Mike and Farley's lives. 

As a suspense/mystery novel, "San Francisco Golden Crime" is filled with twists and turns. Decker is not afraid to take the reader in unexpected directions, keeping you guessing with each turn of the page. In addition to the thriller/suspense elements, Decker includes plenty of touching, heartfelt moments that make the characters feel real and connect the reader to the story. In a recent author interview, when talking about her inspiration for the sentimental aspects of the story, Decker said, "I drew from real life experiences. We all have emotions good and bad, we all have a story and with it carries happiness, sadness, scary times, connections and empathy for others, and at times the loss of life."

One of the the strengths of the novel is Decker's ability to capture the magic of San Francisco. She highlights the nature scenes of the Bay Area, such as Hawk Hill, in addition to the recognizable locations -- The Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, The Sunset District, and Lombard Street. As you read the story, you become more and more engrossed in the location -- feeling as if you have been transported to San Francisco. She excels at capturing the distinct character of each region, such as the architecture in the Marina district and the relaxed vibe of the Sunset District.

Although this novel will appeal to a broad range of readers, dog lovers will particularly enjoy this story, especially Farley, the Black Labrador. He plays a major role in driving the story forward, and Decker does an excellent job of capturing the loving relationship between Mike and Farley. They have a close-knit friendship and are very in-sync with each other's needs and emotions -- something all dog lovers can relate to. 

For readers who can't get enough "San Francisco Golden Crime," rest assured, Decker has stated a sequel is on the way! If you're a fan of mystery novels with touching moments and a beautiful setting, you'll want to check out Kelli L Decker's "San Francisco Golden Crime."

Book Links
Buy “San Francisco Golden Crime” on Amazon.
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Book trailer for "San Francisco Golden Crime."


Tamala J Coleman, Author of Unspoken My Past, My Pain, My Story

Biography, Memoir, unspoken book, unspoken my past pain my story, tamala coleman, author tamala, tamala j coleman

If you like inspirational memoirs, check out Tamala J Coleman's "Unspoken My Past, My Pain, My Story." 



unspoken by tamala j coleman, christian memoir author
Author Tamala J Coleman.
Book blurb:
"Life can throw many curve balls. Yet, when God has a plan and purpose for your life, you may have to endure some trials and some delays even opposition. I am a living witness that it all works together for your good in the end. The devil wanted to contaminate and interfere with my future. My God is both Alpha and Omega. In other words, whatever that is intended to be your omega, the outcome of your dream and life and destiny, God makes sure that it is embedded in your alpha, the days of your small beginnings."

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The Adventures of Sarah Ann Lewis and the Memory Thieves by Joshua C. Carroll

middle grade, middle grade mystery fantasy, mystery, thriller, Texas, Joshua c carroll, adventures of sarah ann lewis, memory thieves, upper mg, rural science fiction, middle grade scifi, scifi mg book,

Today's post features Joshua C. Carroll's upper-middle grade novel, “The Adventures of Sarah Ann Lewis and the Memory Thieves," a story with elements of the mystery, rural sci-fi, and thriller genres.

About the Book
The story follows protagonist, Sarah Ann, a girl who is learning to be accepted -- but her self-discovery is interrupted (or enhanced) when she realizes she's being stalked by spies, uncovering secrets, and meeting mad scientists. 

Thirteen-year-old Sarah is a character the reader can relate to. She’s finding herself, trying to do the right thing, curious about the world around her, but at the same time struggling with her living situation. She lives in the country in rural Texas with her grandfather. She must step out of her comfort zone when she joins forces with mysterious "people" called The Sentinels. She must get over her mistrust of them as working with them is the only way to save life as she knows it.

One of the strengths of the book is its broad appeal. Although it's aimed at a middle grade audience, it has plenty of twists and turns in its plot to entertain readers of all ages. The upper middle grade genre is unique in that it is approachable for younger readers yet still has complex ideas, heartfelt themes  and multi-dimensional characters. "Sarah Ann" is unique in that it has elements from multiple genres, namely elements from rural sci-fi, mystery and thriller genres. There literally is something for everyone in this book, from spies to family secrets to intelligent animals to shapeshifters and more!

Another interesting aspect of "Sarah Ann" is its setting. Set in 1988, readers are transported to a world where Facebook, HD TV, and other aspects of modern life aren't in existence. In a recent writer interview, Carroll talked about the challenges of writing a book set in the 1980s, stating, "I wanted to share a bit of that world with new readers who can’t imagine what life was like the phone was connected to the wall by a coiled cord and most people didn’t even own a computer ... it felt simpler writing a story where people aren’t constantly staring at screens and texting each other and posting things to social media. " Readers who are familiar with the period will enjoy revisiting their past while younger readers will be entertained at the slower pace of life in 1980s Texas.

If you're curious about how readers have responded to "Sarah Ann" so far, the book has received positive reviews on Amazon. One Amazon reviewer said, "...I tried to read carefully for details, but I began to enjoy it so much I soon realized I was being swept along and decided to just enjoy the ride!" Another reviewer said, "The characters are relatable and unique, the plot keeps you guessing, and the world that the author has built is deep and layered. Highly recommended for readers of all ages."

Readers of "Sarah Ann" will be pleased to know Carroll is working on the sequel. Additionally, in a recent interview, Caroll talked about working on two other novels, stating, "...one is a post-apocalyptic sci-fi that involves quantum computing, data mining, and an alien substance that can be manipulated so that its molecular structure changes. The other is a story of a time traveler stuck in the body of the son his mother would have had if he had never been born."

In closing, if you're looking for a fun upper middle grade story with likable characters, a fun setting, and influences from multiple genres, look no further than "The Adventures of Sarah Ann Lewis and the Memory Thieves." Now is a great time to get your copy! Starting Thursday, August 8, the book will be 99¢ for a couple days, and then it will slowly increase until it goes back up to the normal price of $6.99 on Thursday, August 15. Get it on Amazon by clicking here.


“The Adventures of Sarah Ann Lewis and the Memory Thieves Genre” excerpt:
What Sarah doesn’t know… 
...could doom us all. 
It’s 1988 in the middle of nowhere, Texas, and 13-year-old Sarah is about to be swept out of her boring life and into a world of danger. 
Spies are coming for her. The people next door are not what they seem. And Sarah’s family has been hiding something. Something BIG. Something not even Sarah knows. 
The fate of the world hangs in the balance. But for Sarah, all that matters is rescuing her family. What’s left of it, anyway.  
If she fails, the Memory Thieves will learn their secrets, and as a result, millions around the world will die. But to save the people she loves, Sarah will have to team up with strangers she isn’t sure she can trust. Strangers who aren’t even human
This story is not what you think. 
A captivating blend of rural sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and thriller, the first book of this genre smashing series will have you begging for more.

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Andrew's Nursery Rhymes and Rhymes by Andrew Grey

Nursery Rhymes, Childrens book, entertainment, andrew’s nursery rhymes and rhymes, kids nursery book, Andrew grey author,
About the Book
We are excited to share a new post about "Andrew's Nursery Rhymes and Rhymes" by Andrew Grey. Nursery rhymes are a staple of most people's childhood, from "Humpty Dumpty" to "Mary Had a Little Lamb." Almost all children have wonderful memories about nursery rhymes. Grey contributes to the genre with his own collection or fun rhymes that kids and adults alike are sure to enjoy. The rhymes are imaginative and unique. Whether you have a toddler learning to read on his or her own or you're a parent looking for a bedtime story, you'll enjoy this one-of-a-kind collection of rhymes. The illustrations by Tim Hogan add another element to the book with vivid, attention-grabbing illustrations throughout the book. There are a number of great nursery rhymes in this book, but "Rick the Stick" is one that is sure to be a favorite of the readers! If you like entertaining nursery rhymes, then check out "Andrew's Nursery Rhymes and Rhymes" by Andrew Grey!

"Andrew's Nursery Rhymes and Rhymes" Links
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