I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Readers are shown how a young girl and her puppy came together in author Maureen Devlin’s “Let’s Go Backer and Backer: The Playful Puppy.”
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The Synopsis
In this heartwarming, rhythmic tale, a young girl adopts a playful puppy she loves with all her heart. Starting from the kindness of strangers who rescued the puppy, to the caring staff and veterinarian at the shelter, each page takes readers one step further back in the story. With each repeated refrain, children see the chain of compassion and care that brought the girl and her puppy together. From puppy park adventures to the puppy’s safe arrival at the shelter, this cumulative story celebrates love, community, and the joy of adoption.
Why This Book Benefits Children
Teaches empathy and kindness – By tracing the puppy’s journey from rescue to adoption, children learn how many caring people play a role in helping animals.
Builds sequencing and memory skills – The repetitive, cumulative structure helps children anticipate what comes next, reinforcing comprehension and recall.
Encourages a sense of community – The story shows how teamwork and compassion create happy endings.
Fosters a love of animals – It naturally introduces the concepts of pet adoption and responsible pet care in a gentle, engaging way.
How Parents Can Use This Book
Read aloud for rhythm and repetition – The patterned text invites children to join in, making reading interactive and fun.
Discuss each role in the story – Ask questions like, “What did the veterinarian do?” or “Who found the puppy first?” to build understanding of cause and effect.
Connect to real-life experiences – If you have a pet, talk about its adoption story, or consider visiting a local animal shelter together.
Encourage kindness projects – Use the story as a starting point for discussing ways to help animals or people in need in your community.
The Review
This was a fast-paced yet engaging children’s book. The author did an incredible job of utilizing bright and colorful imagery with heartfelt and sentimental storytelling. The writing speaks to young children and parents alike, and creates an emotional connection between the two that makes for a unique reading experience.
What stood out to me was the theme and story behind The Playful Puppy. The author did an incredible job of walking readers through the process of what puppies go through when they are adopted, from the discovery of the puppy by good Samaritans to the vets and custodians who care for the puppy and their environment in the shelter, and finally, the person who gives them a forever home. The backwards style of storytelling, going back in time essentially to show this process, was very creative as well.
The Verdict
Heartfelt, engaging, and thoughtfully curated, author Maureen Devlin’s “Let’s Go Backer and Backer: The Playful Puppy” is a must-read children’s book. The heart and passion for pet adoption this story brings to life, and the way the book’s imagery and emotional connection bring parents and children together will keep readers coming back to this book time and time again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Maureen Devlin is a Seattle-based author. She is a former lawyer and social worker and a forever Mom, Aunt, and Grand-Aunt. Her mission now is to spread the joy of reading and learning to young children. She strives to provide factual information to young minds in fun and fresh ways. When her own twins were small, she spent countless hours curled up on the couch with them, reading and talking about what they read. These “book fests” prompted seemingly endless questions about the origins of everyday things. Thus, the idea of going “backer and backer” to find the origins was born.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A father struggling with depression and separation must find himself in author Mark Woodley’s “Don’t Die Dad.”
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The Synopsis
Don’t Die Dad
A Separated Father’s Journey from Devastation to Peace and Acceptance
🔥 A raw, powerful memoir of fatherhood lost—and the relentless fight to rebuild a life worth living.
Ten years after separation tore his family apart and ripped him from daily life with his children, one father is drowning in silence—grieving, addicted, unmoored.
With nothing left but a pair of hiking boots and a sliver of hope, he sets off on a three-day solo trek through New Zealand’s Southern Alps. What begins as an escape becomes a reckoning—with his past, his pain, and the man he’s trying to become.
What you’ll find inside:
🛑 Addiction, anger, and the silent suffering of separated dads
👣 A decade-long transformation through nature, therapy, and soul-searching
💔 Honest reflections on love, loss, fatherhood, and identity
🌄 A mountain hike that mirrors the climb back to self
💡 Hard-won insights into peace, resilience, and letting go
For separated fathers.
For men told to “be strong” and “move on.”
For anyone who needs proof that healing is possible.
This isn’t just a memoir. It’s a lifeline.
If you’ve ever felt broken, forgotten, or lost in the dark—this book is for you.
The Review
Immediately, I was struck by the author’s honesty and the visceral depth of their dive into their most painful and personal moments. The book serves not as an educational or step-by-step guide for any father or parent facing separation or divorce for the first time, but instead serves as a beacon to those living that reality that, through that struggle, perseverance is possible. The raw emotions and experiences the author brought to life on the page were both relatable and heartbreaking to read. They allowed readers who have lived through similar experiences to have their hearts laid bare on the page.
The balance the author found between storytelling with their experiences both in the past and on that transformational hike, and the lessons and experiences that made that trip so vital to their future, made this a compelling read. The relatively steady pacing of the book’s narrative elements allowed readers the time to connect to the author’s message. What stood out was how the author didn’t spend time disparaging their ex-spouse. The author was able to explore the emotional highs and lows of this journey without vilifying the other parent in this equation, and the self-reflective nature of both of their actions made this feel truly balanced.
The Verdict
Heartfelt, emotional, and captivating, author Mark Woodley’s “Don’t Die Dad” is a must-read nonfiction memoir. The honesty and the imagery the author infused into their writing allowed the reader to connect to the emotional elements of the author’s life, and yet still kept the reader engaged in the story of their life as well. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Mark Woodley – Father, Author, Entrepreneur, Advocate and Athlete
Mark Woodley is an Australian father, author, entrepreneur, GPS windsurfing competitor, and advocate for the rights and wellbeing of separated fathers. His memoir, Don’t Die Dad: A Separated Father’s Journey from Devastation to Peace and Acceptance, resonates deeply with men navigating the collapse of family, identity, and connection.
Mark’s story of fatherhood began like many—with joy and the dream of raising his children in a loving home. That dream shattered with a single text message, launching him into the chaos of legal conflict, emotional disconnection, and the grief of part-time parenting. Over the next ten years, he faced a collapse of self, a loss of purpose, and long stretches of silence from his children.
A self-employed professional in the health and nutrition industry and previous the cosmetic industry and advertising industry, Mark has spent over 30 years working with a variety of people and corporations. But business success couldn’t shield him from the emotional toll of separation. As his internal world crumbled, he returned to a teenage passion.
Windsurfing became his lifeline—restoring presence, physical resilience, and emotional strength. He went on to become a GPS Windsurfing Champion, proving his tenacity and reminding him that healing often begins with physical motion.
But the deepest transformation came through facing the shadows within: childhood trauma, addictions, emotional shutdown, and the ache of losing daily contact with his children. His journey through despair, recovery, and hard-earned clarity is captured in Don’t Die Dad, written over three symbolic days of hiking through New Zealand’s Southern Alps—a mirror to his decade of emotional reckoning.
Today, Mark is the founder of Separated Fathers Recovery, which hosts an online course: Always Dad: The Recovery Accelerator for Separated Fathers, a structured course grounded in lived experience, empathy, and growth.
Through his work, Mark champions legal reform, mental health support, and greater understanding of the father-child bond after separation. He looks to speak regularly on podcasts and panels about male vulnerability, rebuilding after crisis, and showing up with dignity—even when love is met with silence.
Mark lives in Perth, Western Australia and travels back to New Zealand regularly where Don’t Die Dad was written. He remains a present, committed father and a qualified voice for change—proof that from devastation, peace and acceptance is possible.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author G. Riley Mills shares the experience and skills needed to empower readers and leaders alike with the means of growing their business and life as a whole through effective communication strategies in the book “Synergy and Sparks.”
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The Synopsis
Become a Standout Leader with Intentional Strategies Tailored to Your Role and Industry
Synergy and Sparks: Unlock Excellence through Communication, Collaboration, and Influence is more than just a business book—it’s a definitive, practical guide for thriving as a leader in an ever-evolving world. Written by the Emmy Award–winning co-founder of Pinnacle Performance Company—one of the world’s leading communication skills training firms—this book unveils the proven, award-winning methodology behind Pinnacle’s global success.
Blending the art and science of communication, Synergy and Sparks equips leaders with the tools and insights that Fortune 500 companies have relied on for decades. It offers a hands-on roadmap filled with current research, real-world examples, engaging stories, and actionable exercises—empowering readers to lead with clarity, influence, and intention.
Each chapter is designed to spark growth, foster collaboration, and help you apply these transformative strategies directly to your own leadership journey. Throughout the book, readers will learn:
The six most important aspects of modern leadership: communication, presence, influence, storytelling, connection, and collaboration
The skills needed to communicate a clear vision, drive productivity, and retain top talent
Time-tested performance techniques that professional actors have utilized for centuries to project confidence, influence emotion, and motivate action in their audiences
Synergy and Sparks is the perfect resource to help frustrated leaders achieve their full potential and motivate their teams to action.
The Review
The author’s insights and knowledge were on point in this book. The author’s ability to communicate and educate readers on the effectiveness of communication through historical, pop culture, and business-related examples was both inspiring and relatable, and the conversational tone of the book’s writing style effectively emphasized the power of communication.
Social awareness, balancing stress and performance, and even using storytelling devices in communication techniques are just a few of the compelling ideas that the author brings to life in this book. The way the author explores a post-COVID world and how it has changed the business landscape was amazing. One of the unique concepts the author brought to the conversation of modern business communication is the idea of “Yes, and”, which challenges leaders to embrace change and find ways of growing and building upon that change as a result.
The Verdict
Insightful, compelling, and engaging, author G. Riley Mills’s “Synergy and Sparks” is a must-read nonfiction book on business and communication. The author’s education and experience, combined with a personable and straightforward writing style, will keep readers coming back to this book time and again to seek knowledge about business communication. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
G. Riley Mills is a three-time Emmy Award-winning producer, writer and entrepreneur. He is the author of Synergy and Sparks and the co-author of The Pin Drop Principle and its follow-up The Bullseye Principle (all published by John Wiley & Sons). He was included in the list of “Top Leadership Speakers” by Inc. Magazine and has taught effective communication to executives and CEOs on six continents. He presented his TEDx session “Are We Killing Communication?” at the Shanghai American School, Shanghai, China and consulted on the MSNBC program “All In America: Chicago” which won a 2018 Emmy for Outstanding News Discussion and Analysis.
Mills has guest-lectured or delivered keynotes at such events and institutions as Columbia University, London Business School, ATD International Conference, London Chamber of Commerce, SHRM International Conference, New York University, Utrecht University (Netherlands), Singapore Management University, MENA Conference (Saudi Arabia), Manchester United and The Royal Household at Buckingham Palace.
As a writer, Mills has written for Forbes and Fast Company. He has twice been awarded the Joseph Jefferson Citation for Best New Work, in 1998 and 2001. His acclaimed musical, The Hundred Dresses, premiered Off-Broadway at the Atlantic Theatre Company in New York City. His play, Lift Every Voice, was acquired by Dramatic Publishing Company and won the 2022 Distinguished Play Award from the American Alliance of Theatre & Education. Mills is a proud member of the Screen Actors Guild as well as the Forbes Coaches Council. He produced the award-winning film Bed which premiered at the 2021 Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal. He co-wrote and co-produced The Lost Story of Emmett Till: Trial in the Delta for NBC and Collaboraction Theatre (streaming on Peacock) which won a 2022 Emmy Award (Chicago/Midwest) and was a finalist for the 2023 Silver Gavel Award from the American Bar Association. Mills also won a 2024 Emmy Award (Chicago/Midwest) for The Lost Story of Emmett Till: Then and Now, which was produced by NBC and won Outstanding Regional Documentary.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A man torn between two worlds must navigate faith versus cultural survival in author Rickard B. DeMille’s “Black Legend: An Empire Burns.”
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The Synopsis
One man. Two faiths. A culture on the brink of annihilation.
Yucatán, 1562. When Diego, a Mayan turned Catholic priest, returns to his homeland with his mentor, zealous Franciscan friar Brother deLanda, he is torn between the two worlds that made him. Trained to see his native traditions as heresy, Diego struggles with his past while serving the very Church that suddenly seeks to erase it.
Rumors of human sacrifice surface in the town of Mani, and deLanda launches a merciless campaign to purge the region of “paganism.” Arrests mount. Ancient books and sacred relics are gathered. Diego’s own brother and wife are imprisoned, labeled rebels.
In a single night, the spiritual and intellectual legacy of the Ancient Mayan Empire is burned to ash.
As deLanda’s crusade spirals into tyranny, Diego must choose: uphold the Church that gave him purpose, or defy it to rescue those he loves and preserve a civilization being burned out of history.
Black Legend is a powerful historical novel of faith, betrayal, and the cost of cultural survival. Perfect for fans of The Name of the Rose, Silence, and The Power of the Dog.
The Review
This was a tense and compelling read. The author did an incredible job of capturing the tension and the heavy atmosphere of the cultural clashes that came with the conflicts between the Mayan and the Church, while also bringing the rich setting of the Yucatan and both the mysterious jungles and developing Catholic cities to life in vivid detail using powerful imagery in the writing style. The dialogue between the characters really underscores that tension, and highlights the challenges that arose, and the attention to detail the author gave to the history of the era was perfectly captured.
The driving force of this narrative was in the duality of the protagonist, Diego, and the spiritual conflict that arose not only in him but in his people as well. The horrible realities of the erasure of Mayan culture and the violence it sparked were artfully depicted here. The often difficult journey between the faith one is born into and the faith one is brought into was felt in every agonizing obstacle and choice Diego had to make along the way. His connection to his family and friends in the Mayan people and his admiration for the Church leaders who converted him sparked both intrigue and heartache in the divide between these two peoples, and made for a thought-provoking discussion.
The Verdict
Compelling, engaging, and thoughtful in delivery, author Rickard B. DeMille’s “Black Legend: An Empire Burns” is a must-read historical fiction novel. The twists and turns and the chilling atmosphere that hangs between these characters and the dynamic character arcs and history that are brought to life make this a thrilling historical fiction read that shines a light on a vastly underappreciated moment in history that needs to be recognized. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Rick DeMille was born in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he lived until attending Brigham Young University. After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish, he became a commissioned officer in the Marine Corps, and spent three years on active duty and three years in the active Reserves.
Then, one day, he wrote a Y2K guide and everything changed. A life-long interest in writing was revived, and that interest became a passion.
Rick wrote everything. Beginning with several short stories, which were published online by websites such as BeWrite.com, won several contests and were eventually placed in an anthology from Magellan Books. From there, he tried his hand at flash fiction and also wrote several screenplays.
His plays placed in the 2005 SouthWest Writer’s competition and in 2010 he placed in the Writers’ Digest screenplay contest, but his passion was still for novelized fiction.
In 2010, he began work on his first novel, HELLFIRE, which, since being released, has been a Top Ten Best Seller in Canada, Australia, Brazil, Germany, and France.
Rick DeMille continues to grow and develop his writing talents and looks forward to all the new projects the future has in store.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman must learn not only to survive but thrive in the aftermath of trauma and a haunting past in author Sienna Ross’s “Not Here Anymore.”
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The Synopsis
Not Here Anymore tells the compelling, emotional journey of Katherine, a woman who escapes a violent past, only to realize that unresolved trauma will continue to haunt her. After enduring toxic relationships, she embarks on a journey across several countries in search of healing from trauma and a new life. As she confronts her deepest fears, Katherine discovers that survival is not just about running; it’s about empowerment, rebuilding and self-discovery.
Through heartbreak, loss and life-altering challenges, including the tragic death of a loved one and the painful reality of a miscarriage, Katherine must navigate the scars of her past. Yet, even in the face of overwhelming grief, she learns that true emotional resilience isn’t just about surviving; it’s about finding the strength to thrive. This gripping story isn’t only about escaping abuse; it’s about the inspiration to heal and create a new future, no matter the darkness that comes from previous wounds.
Not Here Anymore is a deeply moving and authentic women’s fiction novel that captures the heartache of domestic abuse and the strength it takes to rebuild a life. Set against the backdrop of various cultures like Belgium, Italy, Cuba this domestic thriller offers an international perspective, bringing an emotional depth to the story. The journey Katherine undertakes is as much about survival as it is about discovering the power within herself to move beyond the pain.
Key Features:
A powerful, emotional journey of a woman escaping a toxic relationship.
Themes of survival, empowerment and resilience are the heart of the story.
Set in international locations, adding depth and a cinematic quality to the narrative.
Inspiration for women a must-read for anyone seeking strength after hardship.
An emotional rollercoaster, blending psychological thriller with personal growth.
This psychological thriller combines raw emotion with suspense, making it a page turner that’s both engaging and impactful. Readers will find inspiration in Katherine’s transformation and her relentless pursuit of a life defined by empowerment rather than fear. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has faced life’s challenges, reminding us all that healing from trauma is possible and happiness is still within reach.
Perfect for fans of:
Survival thrillers
Contemporary women’s fiction
Psychological suspense
Domestic thrillers
Inspiring stories of resilience and renewal
The Review
This was a compelling domestic thriller meets suspense novel. The harrowing experiences and tension that the author layered into each chapter of this novel were chilling and heartbreaking, yet interspersed with glimpses of hope and resilience. The powerful imagery and honest, authentic dialogue between the characters keep the readers engaged as the story progresses.
The heart of this novel was in the character development, especially for the protagonist, Katherine. The realities and struggles of domestic violence and stalking that so many women have to face in this world are not only expertly woven into this story, but they also bring a haunting reality to the narrative. Yet, the themes of strength through survival and transformation were beautifully executed. Despite loss and struggle, the way this protagonist picked herself up time and again made this a memorable read.
The Verdict
Haunting, compelling, and engaging, author Sienna Ross’s “Not Here Anymore” is a must-read domestic thriller meets suspense narrative. The twists and turns that this story takes, the emotional weight of grief, loss, and empowerment, are explored. The shocking cliffhanger finale will leave readers eager for another installment featuring this endearing and moving protagonist. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Welcome – I’m Sienna Ross, author of bold stories that follow people through love, loss, escape, and reinvention.
My writing blends raw truth with atmospheric storytelling — from violent pasts to distant cities, from painful goodbyes to unexpected strength.
I come from very humble beginnings, yet I started working at 17 and built my path through success in sales, team building, and leadership. As a licensed life coach, I have supported many people in overcoming obstacles and stepping into their true potential. My book carries the same mission: to remind readers that no matter the hardships, we all have the power to rise and create a life of strength and purpose
If you believe that stories can heal, challenge, and empower — you’re in the right place.
Through my work, I help individuals overcome challenges, build resilience, and find the courage to move forward even when life feels unbearable. With a rare combination of business insight and human empathy, I bring authenticity, depth, and inspiration to my writing.
My book reflects this mission—it is more than just a story; it is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the past, it is always possible to rebuild, heal, and create a meaningful future.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
An author on the rise risks losing everything when a stalker threatens to expose her greatest secret in author Hank Phillippi Ryan’s “All This Could Be Yours.”
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The Synopsis
Is a debut author’s blockbuster bestseller about to ruin her life? A glamorous book tour becomes a deadly cat-and-mouse chase in this new and captivating thriller by “master of suspense” (Publishers Weekly) and USA Today bestselling author Hank Phillippi Ryan.
Debut sensation Tessa Calloway is on a whirlwind book tour for her instant bestseller, All This Could Be Yours. In a different city every night, Tessa receives standing ovations from adoring fans while her husband Henry and their two children cheer her on from their brand-new dream house.
But there’s a chilling problem with Tessa’s triumphant book tour—she soon discovers she is being stalked by someone who’s obsessed not only with sabotaging her career, but also with destroying her perfect family back home.
Tessa fears the fallout from an impossible decision she once made—what felt like a genuine deal with the devil—appears to be coming due. And she’s realizing that every high-stakes bargain comes with a high-stakes price. If Tessa can’t untangle who’s threatening to expose her darkest secrets, she’ll lose her career, her family—and possibly her life.
The Review
This was such a compelling mystery read. The author did a great job of infusing suspense and drama into every chapter of this novel. The tension could be felt immediately, as both the protagonist and the novel’s main plot took on a life of their own on the page and commanded the reader’s attention. The way the author was able to capture the whirlwind experience of life as a full-time author, both in terms of inspiration for their stories and the marketing and publicity for more successful stories, makes this a fascinating read.
The heart of this narrative was in how the author explored this protagonist. The complexity of this character’s arc, from the joy and fulfillment that she feels having launched her successful author career, to the fears and doubts she feels being alone on the road for the tour and the guilt of her past haunting her on top of it all, made the narrative sing with a chilling atmosphere and slowly creeping tension as the mystery behind a stalker and their purpose make the outcome that much more powerful as events explode on the page.
The Verdict
Haunting, visceral, and entertaining, author Hank Phillippi Ryan’s “All This Could Be Yours” is a must-read suspense thriller. The honesty in the author’s writing style and the slow buildup of tension in the narrative help elevate a strong and emotionally charged plot with an equally powerful protagonist that will stay with readers as the shocking final chapters emerge. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
USA Today bestselling author HANK PHILLIPPI RYAN has won five Agatha Awards (including for Truth Be Told and The Wrong Girl) five Anthony Awards, the Daphne, the Macavity, and the Mary Higgins Clark Awards. As on-air investigative reporter for Boston’s WHDH-TV, she’s won thirty-seven Emmy Awards and many more journalism honors. A past president of national Sisters in Crime, a founder of Mystery Writers of America University, and a board member of International Thriller Writers, Ryan lives in Boston.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Rich Plumery shares a new take on leadership development in the book “Palms Up Leadership: Developing Our Future Leaders.”
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The Synopsis
Palms Up Leadership: Developing Future Leaders is not just another business book—it’s a transformative leadership manifesto designed for today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape.
In this compelling work, Rich Plumery draws from a wealth of experience shaped by real-world adversity, elite performance environments, and high-stakes leadership roles. At its core are the Palms Up tenets—Enable, Engage, and Embrace—a simple yet powerful framework that empowers leaders to navigate complex challenges with authenticity and purpose.
Plumery masterfully integrates principles from servant leadership, project management, sports psychology, elite military team-building, and entrepreneurship to offer a fresh, actionable approach to leadership development. Whether you’re a C-suite executive, a team leader, or an emerging talent, this book equips you with practical strategies to:
Cultivate a thriving and resilient workplace culture
Empower others through clarity, trust, and collaboration
Address pressing challenges like wisdom loss, remote work, and AI disruptions
Lead with integrity, purpose, and impact
If you’re ready to lead boldly, build better teams, and shape the next generation of leaders—Palms Up Leadership is your essential guide.
The Review
This was a truly insightful and compelling nonfiction book. The author wrote in a way that felt honest and personal while also conveying essential lessons along the way. The impact the author’s late brother had early on in his career, as well as the foundational work that went into his businesses, made the experiences that were put down on the page that much more impactful and meaningful. These lessons included things like making the minimum decision necessary to keep things moving, which was paired with a personal interaction with someone who caused him to rethink how reactive actions can have adverse consequences if not thought through carefully.
The theme and foundation for both this book and the method of Palms Up leadership that stood out for this reader was the concept of servant leadership. The concept was new to me, but it was so inspiring. The idea of selfless leadership is so unheard of by so many companies these days. Yet, the concept is beneficial both morally and monetarily, allowing employees to feel wanted and appreciated and motivating them to contribute more to the company. Leadership is meant to work with and serve the community, including the one within a business, and the author’s expertise and strategies really do a great job of aligning with that.
The Verdict
Memorable, insightful, and engaging, author Rich Plumery’s “Palms Up Leadership” is a must-read nonfiction business and leadership book. The fast pacing of the book, the action-driven steps the author lays out to help develop this unique brand of leadership, and the personal nature of the author’s experiences will keep readers invested and connected to the author and the journey this book takes them on. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Rich is a published author, thought leader, and international speaker who presents on various topics, including business recovery, performance management, and his Palm’s Up LeadershipTM brand of servant leadership. Rich has been a founder, investor, and operator in several successful businesses, including one of the first voice-controlled computers, a tactical supply company supporting elite military units (with partners who were some of the plankowners of SEAL Team Six and Red Cell). He also owned and operated a sports performance coaching business that served hundreds of professional athletes across the NFL, NHL, MLB, and MLS. He applied what he had learned from his expert coaches and other world-class specialists, such as Greg Roskopf, the man who retooled Bryson DeChambeau, to develop elite corporate coaching skills.
Being an obsessed problem solver, Rich is passionate about developing a new generation of leaders to help us improve our corporate cultures. At this point in our history, we are dealing with many new dynamics, such as pandemics forcing remote work environments, global work sharing, emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, and an aging workforce, which is continually draining our wisdom bank and jeopardizing quality in many of our key industries, including manufacturing, engineering, construction and healthcare. Rich presents his solutions to these challenges, based on his unique experiences in the corporate and entrepreneurial worlds.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Cory McCray shares the untapped potential that can be found when taking on apprenticeships in the book “The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life.”
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The Synopsis
“I realized that learning a trade was more than just mastering a skill—it was about gaining control over my future.”
How an Apprenticeship Saved My Life tells the inspiring story of one man’s journey from Baltimore’s tough streets to a life of purpose, stability, and impact.
Cory McCray was on a path many young men know all too well—one shaped by struggle and limited opportunity. But when a single decision led him into an apprenticeship program, everything changed. Through hands-on training, grit, and an unshakable commitment to growth, he found a way to rewrite his future.
In this candid memoir, McCray shares the highs and lows of his journey, illustrating the transformative power of skilled labor and mentorship. Individuals will discover how his experiences as an apprentice shaped not just his career but his life, providing him with the foundation to become a Maryland State Senator dedicated to empowering his community. Alongside these personal stories, How an Apprenticeship Saved My Life delves into the lasting impact apprenticeships can have, particularly for those who might be overlooked by traditional educational paths.
For anyone who believes in the power of second chances and the untapped potential within every community, How an Apprenticeship Saved My Life is a powerful reminder that sometimes the right opportunity can change everything. Dive into this transformative story and explore how one apprenticeship not only saved a life but sparked a movement.
The Review
The first thing that stood out to me was how genuine and honest the author was in expressing the events of his life that led him to the path he found himself on. The way the author delved into the hardships and struggles of his youth, and both the impact on his community and the lack of available resources, and the social pressures many young men in his community were presented with, could be felt in the author’s writing with an emotional depth that readers could feel.
The balance of nonfiction narrative as the author expands on his life and journey, with the lessons and education he imparts to young readers, is astounding. The straightforward candor of the author’s voice in the writing style was superb and drove the lessons forward with ease. The idea and inspiration this book inspires in young people to embrace change and the unknown and to see for themselves the future they deserve will keep readers inspired and invested as the book progresses.
The Verdict
Insightful, compelling, and engaging, author Cory McCray’s “The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life” is a must-read nonfiction book. The author did a great job of helping young people through the process of mentorship and becoming apprentices in trades, from working with difficult people to the interview process and so much more, and this is one of those books readers can return to time and time again for guidance and inspiration. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Cory McCray is a journeyman electrician, father of four, and public servant who proudly represents East and Northeast Baltimore in the Maryland State Senate. As the only member of the Maryland General Assembly to have completed a registered apprenticeship, he brings an unwavering commitment to expanding access, uplifting working families, and removing barriers to opportunity.
Raised in Baltimore City, Cory’s life was transformed through an apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 24. That experience not only gave him a career, but a calling—and led him to invest in real estate as a tool for stabilizing neighborhoods, win elected office, and pass over 100 pieces of legislation aimed at equity and economic mobility.
His debut book, The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life, is a blueprint for those navigating the “earn-while-you-learn” path and a call to action for educators, policymakers, and mentors to see the potential in every young person.
When he’s not in Annapolis or working in the community, you can find Cory cheering on his daughters at track meets / tennis matches or walking his sons into basketball practice—deeply grounded in family, faith, and the future of Baltimore.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A podcaster trying to learn more about her brother’s disappearance must save his best friend when the kidnapper challenges her in author Hannah Mary McKinnon’s “A Killer Motive.”
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The Synopsis
In this thriller for fans of Ashley Elston and Jeneva Rose, a manipulative kidnapper gives a true crime podcaster one week to locate her brother’s best friend. If she succeeds, she’ll learn the truth about her brother’s disappearance six years ago, but if she fails, his friend will die.
You never know who’s listening.
To Stella Dixon, sneaking her teenage brother out of their parents’ house for a beach party was harmless fun—until Max disappeared without a trace.
Six years later, Stella’s family is still broken, and she can’t let go of her guilt. The only thing that keeps her going is helping other families find closure through A Killer Motive, her true crime podcast.
In a bid to find new sponsors and keep making episodes, Stella goes on a local radio show. But when she says on air that if she had just one clue, she’d find Max and bring whoever hurt him to justice, someone takes it as a challenge.
A mysterious invitation to play a game arrives, with the promise that if Stella wins, she’ll get information about what happened to Max. Stella thinks it’s a sick joke…until Max’s best friend vanishes. And she’s given new instructions: tell nobody or people will die.
Desperate and unable to trust anyone, Stella agrees. But beating a twisted, invisible enemy seems impossible when they make all the rules…
The Review
This was one of the most compelling thrillers I’ve read this year so far. The intrigue and chilling cat-and-mouse game between the protagonist Stella and the mysterious antagonist toying with her will stay with readers long after the book ends. The author did a fantastic job of creating characters that felt real and tangible, allowing readers to see themselves in many of these characters and their actions. The determination and steel with which the author writes Stella really stood out, especially when showcasing the lengths Stella would go to to find her brother, touching on both the guilt of losing him and the need to see justice done.
The richly developed themes of this novel and the harrowing atmosphere were what really sold this story. The exploration of the true crime podcast genre and the business side of it also highlighted people’s growing need for answers, the truth, and the power people have to search for answers they themselves have been waiting for. The pacing was really impressive as well, with the author peeling back layer after layer of this mystery and each new revelation bringing a shocking new suspect that readers will be floored by.
The Verdict
A thrilling, twisted, and entertaining new crime thriller and mystery, author Hannah Mary McKinnon’s “A Killer’s Motive” is a must-read novel and a 2025 Best of contender for my site! The twists and turns this story takes, the shocking final chapters that shed new light on this case, and the powerful commentary these revelations make will be something readers discuss for a long time to come. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Internationally bestselling author Hannah Mary McKinnon was born in the UK, grew up in Switzerland and moved to Canada in 2010. Her eight suspense novels include THE REVENGE LIST, ONLY ONE SURVIVES, and A KILLER MOTIVE, and her work has been optioned for the screen. She also writes holiday romantic comedies as Holly Cassidy. Hannah Mary lives near Toronto, Canada with her husband and three sons. You’ll find her on socials as @hannahmarymckinnon, and please visit http://www.hannahmarymckinnon.com for more.
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And Now Enjoy this Excerpt from “A Killer Motive”
Chapter 1
Stella
My pulse thudded in my neck like Morse code. A steady tap-tap loosely translating as come on. Shoving my hands under my thighs, I slid farther down the passenger seat and peered over the dashboard toward the darkened house at the end of the street.
For ten minutes I’d willed the motion-activated porch lights to stay off. Hoped the heavy living room drapes with the silver ring print I’d been mesmerized by as a kid would remain closed, allowing us to stay undetected.
Tap-tap.
Already 9:47 p.m. Where was he?
The cloudless Maine sky had long transitioned from bright blue to bubble gum pink before enveloping our corner of the East Coast in a blanket of rich black velvet. A cool breeze drifted through the open car window, providing a welcome break from the searing early August temperatures.
Rain was on its way for Portland and beyond tomorrow, which would be a welcome relief. For now, the sound of buzzing cicadas filled the Friday night air while this summer’s hottest anthem played on a radio somewhere in the distance.
The classic smell of freshly cut grass invaded my nostrils, conjuring memories of picnics in the park, running through sprinklers, and hands sticky from melting strawberry popsicles. Like those lazy days years ago, tonight would be perfect. All I needed was for my brother to show up.
“Do you think he changed his mind, Stella?” Jeff said, his voice a gentle rumble.
Glancing at my boyfriend, I took in his dark blond hair, straight nose, and the sculpted stubble accentuating a set of epic cheekbones. I let my gaze sweep across his toned biceps and chest. Underneath the faded-but-somehow-still-fitted Alanis Morissette T-shirt was a set of rock-hard abs I couldn’t wait to run my hands over again. Part of me almost wanted Max not to show up so we could go straight home.
I reached for Jeff’s hand and gave it a squeeze. “No, he’s too excited for the party. I bet he’s waiting for Mom and Dad to fall asleep in front of the TV.”
Jeff laughed. “Way to make them sound ancient.”
My parents were fifty-one. I was about to reply that compared to Jeff’s twenty-four years and my twenty-two, that was ancient, but the sight of Max emerging between a pair of fir trees stopped me. With a mischievous grin on his face, he speed-walked toward us, his hands tucked into the pockets of a Simpsons hoodie.
I smiled at my baby brother. Baby was slightly unfair considering his eighteenth birthday was under two weeks away, but I’d forever tease him about being four years younger. Max didn’t mind. He knew that from the moment I first saw him in the hospital, swaddled in a bunny-print blanket, his plump cheeks rosy red, I vowed I’d be the best big sister in the world.
Tonight, my solemn promise meant busting his grounded ass out of his minimum-security prison, aka our parents’ house, so he could join Jeff and me at what would be the coolest party of the weekend. Lighthouse Beach was a twenty-five-minute drive from Deering, the Portland neighborhood where Max and I had grown up, and now I couldn’t wait to get going.
Max slid into the back seat of Jeff’s old red pickup truck. I turned around, laughing at my brother’s beaming face and the perpetual impish twinkle in his green eyes, which looked so much like mine.
“We were about to leave,” I deadpanned. “Thought you’d chickened out.”
Max snorted. “As if.”
“Are we picking up Kenji?”
“He’s at his girlfriend’s so he’ll meet us at the beach,” Max said, before jokingly adding, “He’d better, considering he’s taking off next week. Some best friend he is, leaving me behind.”
“Hey,” I shot back with mock indignation. “I thought I was your best friend.”
“Are you two sure about this aiding and abetting?” Jeff cut in before Max could throw a good-natured sibling zinger my way. “Your mom will go ballistic if she finds out.”
Max shrugged. “I don’t care. She’s way overprotective.”
“You know her reasons,” Jeff said.
We all did. Mom’s older brother died when she was nine and he was seventeen. It was terrible how some asshole truck driver had run over our uncle, killing him instantly. Still, Max’s rebellion tonight was fueled by the fact Mom had banned him from going to California with Kenji, saying it was too far away, and Max was too young. They’d had a massive argument about it, which led to my brother being grounded for the weekend, hence tonight’s great escape.
“I told them I was heading to bed,” Max said. “They never check, but I stacked my pillows under the duvet just in case. Nobody will notice.”
“If they do, I’ll take the full blame.” I patted Jeff’s hand. “Max, we’ll drive you home. No after-parties with Kenji, got it? What Mom and Dad don’t know can’t hurt them.”
“Sir, yes, sir.” Max gave me a salute. “Anyway, I’ll need some sleep. I’m volunteering at the clinic tomorrow. Woolly had a mass removed and I want to be there for him.”
“Woolly?” Jeff said. “Dog or sheep?”
My brother grinned. “Giant Angora rabbit. He’s awesome.”
“You’re such a softie,” I said before letting out a whoop. “All right, let’s go. Lighthouse Beach, here we come.”
