I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A man serving the final part of a 30-to-life sentence reflects on the life that brought him to this redemptive arc in author Paul Cody’s “Walk the Dark”.
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The Synopsis
Oliver Curtin grows up in a nocturnal world with a mother who is a sex worker and drug addict, and whose love is real yet increasingly unreliable. His narration alternates between that troubled childhood and the present of the novel, where he is serving the last months of a thirty-years-to-life sentence in a maximum-security prison in upstate New York, for a crime he committed at age seventeen. His redemption is closely allied with his memories, seen with growing clarity and courage. If he can remember, then life in the larger world is possible for him.
The Review
This was such a compelling and rich novel. The author expertly weaves a drama that delves into the prison system and the impact incarceration can have on individuals. The heavy atmosphere and the stellar use of tension and time jumps throughout the narrative elevated the protagonist’s story considerably.
The psychological impact of both life in prison and his complicated relationship with his mother and the women in his life made Oliver’s story so dynamic. The blurred lines between the past and the present as the author jumped around Oliver’s life allowed the reader to peel back the layers of the character’s experiences perfectly. The examination of what life for prisoners is like once they get out, especially after long sentences, gives readers a haunting image of the anxiety and stress that they face in the “real world.”
The Verdict
Author Paul Cody’s “Walk the Dark” is a must-read novel. It is memorable, engaging, and artfully written. The personal and character-driven narrative and the heartfelt exploration of this man’s life will keep readers hooked on the author’s every word. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Massimo Fantini delves into what drives people to switch off their brains and engage in irrational behavior in the book “Concerning Intellectual Suicide in the Human Race: a debate on the human condition”.
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The Synopsis
Intellectual suicide corresponds to the more or less conscious decision to switch off the brain and renounce rational thought in favor of attitudes dictated by superstitions, by established habits, by prejudices, by common places. The effects of irrational choices – made with the brain switched off – can be devastating for oneself and for the others. Examples range from conformism, to religious superstitions, to ideological fundamentalism, just to name a few possibilities.
Tommaso, the protagonist of this debate, is the victim of his parents’ intellectual suicide, perpetrated through procreation. Procreation – the unilateral act by which a couple throws innocent individuals into the stillicidium of life, without weighing the consequences that the hell of existence will have on them – is the most heinous form of intellectual suicide in the human race, not least because of the scale of its consequences.
The author’s intention is to shine the spotlight on the one reality that unites us all, that accompanies our lives from birth until death, but which is casted to our periphery: the human condition.
The editing and translation of this book was done by Ian Zwaschka.
The Review
This was a thoughtful and compelling philosophical read. Using satire and fiction to bring about the themes of conformity and forgoing critical thinking in society was a brilliant way to illustrate the author’s points. The idea that by engaging in superstition and even religious practices, one is essentially committing intellectual suicide, or in other words, ignoring rational thought and thinking for one’s self, was truly thought-provoking and kept the reader engaged thoroughly.
The unique thing about this book is that the author utilized a fictional, albeit satirical, story. Yet, the protagonist, the cast of characters, and even the setting all played a supporting role in this narrative. Instead, the book’s story helped elevate the themes the author was exploring and became a philosophical discussion between the author and the reader as Tommaso’s experiences reflect the intellectual journey the author encourages us all to embrace.
The Verdict
Thoughtful, engaging, and compelling author Massimo Fantini’s “Concerning Intellectual Suicide in the Human Race” is a must-read satire meets philosophical book. The extensive discussions the narrative inspires, and the call to arms that allows readers to think for themselves and not because of others allowed this book to flow smoothly and keep the reader invested. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today.
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Greetings, readers.
I am Massimo Fantini, an Italian author and free thinker, writing from my home in the hills just outside Bologna. In quiet moments, when I am not writing, I enjoy classical music, particularly orchestral works for violin and the Italian opera.
I graduated from a university in Bologna with a degree in civil engineering. However, the studies of my youth do not represent my life’s obsession—that is, delving into those realities which unite all members of the human race: suffering, frustrations, conflicts, and the human reactions to these. They are the events and forces that take every human as an innocent in the crib and twist and turn them into 8.1 billion unique (but intimately connected) forms.
In short, I am obsessed with exploring the intimate recesses of the human condition.
In 2018, entirely dissatisfied with my job, I sought a new form of expression. Thus, I began to write. Incessantly.
I experimented with many kinds of writing. How best to give my ideas form? Then, I found my voice through stories, giving life to characters who explore, triumph, and fail for us to watch.
In each installment of my Human Condition Trilogy, these same all-encompassing issues are approached from different directions, under different circumstances, and by different characters.
Echoing the sentiment of Heraclitus, no two people may look at the same problem, because it is different to each. From the old cynical Leonard in Concerning Fanaticism to young Tommaso (a character inspired by my own youth) in Concerning Intellectual Suicide, I tried to cast a light on a path that is a constant part of our lives, but also constantly shifting.
Through my writing, I encourage readers to find their own perspective on life. Rather than embracing the comfortable mold which society provides, like a goldfish “free” to swim around in its little bowl, I hope my readers can use my books as a steppingstone toward their own unique way of thinking. And then, I wish them the freedom to pursue it.
Art is wonderful because it is a representation of what we otherwise cannot express. I seek not to provide myself and my readers with a mere distraction (what so often passes for “entertainment”). Not a hole in which to stick our heads for a few hours, only to emerge weakened and even less able to face our reality. Rather, I offer up a representation of our shared condition.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Dolores Reynals goes on an emotional and heartfelt journey of self discovery, finding her true self and living life authentically in the book “The Smallest Wave”.
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The Synopsis
“There is fierceness in the smallest wave, even the tiniest ones that reach the shore do what they do with all their might. They don’t ask for permission, and they don’t care that they are small.”
Dolores Reynals was born with an insatiable curiosity and a longing to explore beyond the confines of her family and a conventional environment, giving her a strong determination to dive into the unknown and grow into her true self away from the influences of her youth.
Her quest leads her from her hometown of Mendoza, Argentina to Spain, London, Los Angeles, and Mexico. Sometimes settling and sometimes wandering, Dolores confronts questions that echo those of her past, contemplating femininity, authenticity, and the elusive meaning of home.
With raw emotion and poetic insight, The Smallest Wave is a woman’s journey to live true to the person she is, even if it means releasing everything else.
The Review
What a compelling and heartfelt memoir. The author does such an elegant job of capturing the sense of adventure and discovery that travel can bring to people. The use of imagery in the author’s writing, as well as a poetic writing style, allowed the reader to feel transported each time the author took a new step towards a new location and a new journey. The writing style was as sophisticated yet honest as an artist with a paintbrush, allowing readers to get lost in the words the author brought to life.
The themes of identity, self-discovery, womanhood, and home all felt very prominent in the author’s memoir. The thoughtfulness and honesty that allowed the author to deliver not only the experiences she had but the lessons she learned and the impact of those decisions on her overall journey made the book flow perfectly. The reader was able to feel like they were growing right along with the author as the trip progressed, and readers could instantly make a connection emotionally with the author as well.
The Verdict
Adventurous, heartfelt, and engaging author Dolores Reynals’s “The Smallest Wave” is a must-read memoir. The relatability of so many people, especially women who are looking to discover themselves, was remarkable to see a spark to life on the page. The amount of sympathy, heart, and compassion the reader feels for the author and considers the author brings to her own life as each experience teaches her something new will have readers returning 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
Dolores Reynals was born in Mendoza, Argentina. She started out as a radio actress before moving to London to attain her BA (Hons) in Drama from the University of Surrey. Since then she has worked internationally and now lives nowhere in particular, often between Europe and Mexico.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A grocery store comes alive at night in author Daphne Herlihy’s “Oatis and Muriel: A Grocery Story”.
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The Synopsis
“What happens at night in the grocery store when the lights are out and the customers have gone home?” This is the question that the author asked her children that inspired this heartwarming and charming story. Together, they imagined a whimsical world in which the foods come to life and engage in play. The oats wear fancy coats, the fruits don formal suits and music is played by the string cheese quartet. But nobody could have predicted what happened one night. When Oatis stumbles, it is up to mopey Muriel to see if she can be brave and creative enough to save the day. Together, the friends learn that sometimes helping a friend in trouble is the best way to find out that you can shine brightly too.
The Review
This was a fun and playful story for children to get lost in. The vibrant illustrations and use of grocery store foods as the cast of characters were both imaginative and engaging, allowing children to interact with different food groups and have fun with the scenes of dancing and laughter that the foods displayed.
This book plays well with the themes of friendship and overcoming the odds through teamwork. Oatis’s work to cheer up Muriel and how Muriel snaps out of her funk when Oatis is in danger are great lessons for children to appreciate life’s small things and not take our friendships and relationships for granted.
The Verdict
Memorable, fun, and entertaining author Daphne Herlihy’s “Oatis and Muriel: A Grocery Story” is a must-read children’s book. The fast pace of the narrative and the balance of humor and heart will keep young readers engaged and prove to be the perfect bedtime story for parents. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Donna Carr Roberts shares the painful realities of loss and how to face it when it happens in the children’s book “When Bad Things Happen”.
The Synopsis
Join Mr. Fuzzy Ears and his family on a journey that transcends the boundaries of life and death. In this beautifully illustrated tale filled with laughter and tears, we all learn the timeless wisdom that even in the face of loss, love endures, memories persist, and the angels above us promise an everlasting connection.
When Bad Things Happen is a poignant exploration of the circle of life, inviting readers of all ages to find solace and joy in the bittersweet embrace of saying goodbye.
These delicate threads of life intertwine to create a timeless tapestry of hope and remembrance. The warmth and grace of the illustrations in this book depict love that says every goodbye is but a prelude to a new beginning.
The Review
This is definitely a much more emotional yet much more engaging entry into the author’s children’s book series. The warmth of the watercolor images is a great juxtaposition of the cold reality of loss and the pain that can result from it. Yet the author does a remarkable job of showing the solace and warmth that can come from keeping the memory of those we lost in our hearts and cherishing the good times over the bad.
As a pet parent myself, who in recent months lost one of my fur babies, it is incredibly relatable and memorable to see how the characters react to the loss. The author does a remarkable job of not only diving into the complex reactions and feelings that loss can bring but also creating conversations between children and their parents to better understand when these sudden tragedies occur.
The Verdict
Thoughtful, heartfelt, and engaging author Donna Carr Roberts’s “When Bad Things Happen” is a must-read children’s book. The book offers notes of sadness yet hopeful tones of love and enriching lessons that parents can help teach their children through it. Be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Donna Carr Roberts is the author and illustrator of The Adventures of Mr. Fuzzy Ears book series. She has been the Artist in Residence at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois and a professional portrait artist.Donna has had a lifetime of business careers but none as much fun as working on Mr. Fuzzy Ears. The funny antics of her dogs, Scamp, Izzy, Sofie and Teddy inspired her to write this book. The funny, loving, caring fables help children discover that all of us have the power to make life better for these helpless animals who offer us unconditional love. As a child, her favorite books were My Book House with remarkable stories and illustrations that have influenced her work today. Donna is a member of SCBWI, Portrait Society of America, Oil Painters of America, and a Member with Distinction with American Women Artists.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman with a target on her back and a man haunted by his past must work together to prevent armageddon in author Bruce Farmer’s “Blood Sapphire’s Revenge”.
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The Synopsis
Dive into the heart-pounding world of “Blood Sapphire’s Revenge,” where the stakes are high, the tension is palpable, and every page brims with adrenaline-fueled action. Author, Dr. Bruce Farmer delivers a tour de force military thriller that rivals the best of Jason Bourne and Jack Reacher.
Meet Haddy Abrams, a fearless warrior whose resolve is matched only by her inner demons. After a daring sniper shot in the treacherous Hadhramaut Mountains of Yemen, Haddy becomes the target of a nefarious Eastern European oligarch known only as “X.” Surviving an assassination attempt only fuels her determination to bring justice to those who seek to destroy her world. But as she battles her personal demons, she’s haunted by a mysterious man from her past, a man who seems more like a ghost than a memory.
Meanwhile, halfway across the world, New York City detective Wolf James is thrust into a covert operation in Ukraine, his dreams haunted by the enigmatic dark-eyed woman he once glimpsed atop Mount Rainier. As Wolf grapples with his own demons, he finds himself face-to-face with the woman of his dreams, joining forces with her without hesitation.
Against a backdrop of global intrigue and impending doom, Haddy and Wolf embark on a perilous journey to save the world from Armageddon. Dr. Farmer weaves a complex web of secrets, twists, and heart-stopping moments, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final page. “Blood Sapphire’s Revenge” is a character-driven masterpiece that explores the depths of human resilience and the power of redemption, leaving readers breathless and begging for more.
The Review
This was an action-packed and adrenaline-fueled thriller. The author’s attention to detail in the military jargon and activity and the rich character dynamics between Wolf and Haddy made the compelling action scenes and mesmerizing emotional connections that formed much more enticing.
The way the author brought such a strong and badass female protagonist to the page was great to see and much needed in the military thriller genre. The tension, chaotic atmosphere, and the chilling antagonists the heroes must face make this thriller stand out, compelling the reader to get lost in this mesmerizing globe-trotting suspense drama.
The Verdict
Harrowing, engaging, and memorable author Bruce Farmer’s “Blood Sapphire’s Revenge” is a must-read thriller. The twists the author gives to readers throughout this novel and the compelling military action fans of the genre have come to expect make this a remarkable story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab this debut novel from author Bruce Farmer today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
A far-ranging and adventurous life has taken author Dr. Bruce Farmer to multiple countries and through multiple careers.
Whether practicing emergency room medicine, teaching Science and Theology at a small liberal arts college in Portland, Oregon, or developing a new approach to physical therapy that can relieve back pain and restore healthy function, Dr. Farmer’s diverse and far-ranging life inspires both his characters and his writing.
An avid outdoorsman, Dr. Farmer enjoys hiking, mountain climbing and skiing. He has summited numerous peaks throughout the Cascades Range in both Oregon and Washington.
In developing his characters, Bruce draws inspiration from the outdoors and what they can reveal in one’s character and soul.
Bruce is a father and grandfather, with three children and five grandchildren. He lives just outside of Portland, Oregon.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A lone survivor of a deadly plague must leave her safe haven and face the creatures of the world in author S.M. Sykes’s “Eyes of Blue”.
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The Synopsis
In a world ravaged by an inexplicable plague, society lies in ruins. Amidst the desolation, a lone survivor perseveres in a secluded state park along the Delaware Coast. Over a year has passed since she lost everything, yet as the sanctuary she’s carved for herself begins to crumble, she must summon the strength to endure once more.
Venturing beyond her haven exposes her to the horrors spawned by the plague, creatures both cunning and primal. Their origins shrouded in mystery; they pose a formidable threat to any who cross their path. Armed with scant knowledge and a grim resolve, she understands only two truths: they hunt relentlessly, and their chilling gaze is unmistakable—they have eyes of blue.
The Review
This was an engaging and exciting thriller. The author did an incredible job of building a wholly unique and distinct turn on the undead/zombie genre, giving a post-apocalypse with creatures far more dangerous and chilling than the typical creatures survivors face. The twist on not only how these creatures act and hunt humans but also what they feed off of, to begin with, makes this story so unique.
The shocking imagery that the author brought to life on the page was haunting and engaging, making the world feel very visceral on the page. The protagonist’s character development hit home, as the character felt relatable and memorable, capturing the inexperience of youth with the survivor’s experience.
The Verdict
Compelling, thrilling, and entertaining, author S.M. Sykes’s “Eyes of Blue” is a must-read post-apocalypse thriller. The narrative’s twists and turns and the exciting new take on the genre will have readers clamoring for more from this fantastic author. Be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
S.M. Sykes never saw himself as a writer, facing struggles with English classes in school. Even his wife, who doubles as his editor, can attest to occasional challenges with organizing his thoughts. However, despite these obstacles, he discovered a passion for storytelling that he couldn’t ignore. Beginning with his debut novel, Eyes of Blue in 2018 at the age of 38, he found the genesis of his stories in a simple idea that sparked in his mind. As the narrative unfolded, it took on a life of its own, leading to the ongoing series that began with Eyes of Blue and continues with his current project, Loss of Blue. With Loss of Blue, he aims to weave together the threads of his previous works into a conclusion that is both profound and satisfying.
Balancing a full-time job with his writing endeavors, which include advertising and marketing his work, has proven challenging. Yet, his motivation lies not in financial gain or replacing his day job but in the satisfaction of sharing his ideas with readers.
Looking ahead, he remains focused on his writing journey, eager to explore where it may lead. He invites others to join him on this adventure by checking out his books and sharing their thoughts.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young rescue pup and her friends go on an adventure to the beach in authors Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis’s “The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup”.
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The Synopsis
“The Adventures of Dori, A Rescue Pup” is a delightful children’s book that promises to take young readers on a fun and adventurous journey. Join Dori and her friends as they explore the beach, showcasing the beauty of working together, the magic of friendship, and the joy of seeing the world through a rescue pup’s eyes. From playing in the sand to uncovering unexpected treasures along the shoreline, every page captures the essence of wonder and the bonds formed between friends. This enchanting book not only offers a heartwarming story of friendship and hope but also allows young readers to become a part of Dori’s legacy. That’s because we donate a portion of our profits back to the rescue that helped Dori find her forever home; Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue. With each purchase, you contribute to a meaningful cause by supporting Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue (SCMR), the organization that played a pivotal role in transforming Dori’s life from uncertainty to a world filled with love.
The Review
What a heartwarming and refreshing children’s book. As a pet parent who recently adopted a shorkie (Yorkshire terrier and Shih Tzu mix), I find it great to see a book that delves into the adoption of rescue pups. The love and sense of found family that rescue adoptions like this bring to mind is a great lesson that children can absorb.
The warmth of the illustrations and the atmosphere of adventure the authors can bring to life in this story were remarkable to behold. The camaraderie between Dori and her friends and the sense of community and environmental care the tale takes on make readers connect with the characters.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining authors Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis’s “The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup” is a must-read children’s book. I always examine children’s books through the lens of whether or not they will bring parents and children together in a bond, and this story hits that mark, allowing families to bond and see the value of friendship, family, and the heart that is given to rescue dogs everywhere. If you haven’t already, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Authors
Kathleen Conway is the co-author of The Adventures of Dori, A Rescue Pup! Kathleen is a former military veteran (Air Force) and works fulltime in the health care industry as an Occupational Therapist. This is Kathleen’s passion behind the book was to share Dori with the world, while bringing awareness to rescue animals. Kathleen is already dreaming up more fun escapades featuring rescue animals.
Juanita Ellis is a first-time author and co-wrote the Adventures of Dori, A Rescue Pup to spread awareness about rescue dogs, and to share a little bit of Dori’s spirit with others around the world! Juanita volunteers her time with the same animal rescue group that rescued Dori. Juanita enjoys spending time with family, both human and furry, and enjoys trips to the beaches of NC and the mountains of TN. Juanita works full-time in the consumer service industry as an HR Executive.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Austin W. Bunch uses his years of sales experience to share a guide to improving one’s own sales technique in the book “The Bunch Book of Selling: How to Sell a Bunch…Not a Little”.
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The Synopsis
They say those who can, do. And those who can’t, teach. But those who can both do and teach, well, they’re named Austin Bunch.
Considered the leading expert on sales training in the gift, home accessories and furniture industries, Bunch has sold everything from pots and pans to pantyhose and has taken that knowledge to create “The Bunch Sales Process,’ a hands-on, easy method that has proven itself time after time.
Now he’s taken those years of sales trainings, those dozens of companies he’s helped and those hundreds of people he’s taught and put it all into a new book, “The Bunch Book of Selling,” now available on Amazon.
Austin doesn’t consider himself a motivational speaker nor a technician…much less a miracle worker. But what’s he developed is a process that uses simple tools like scripts, key words and just plain old common sense to show both sales veterans and newcomers a new approach to selling, on the telephone, online and in-person.
It starts simply enough — “May I” are the two most important words any good salesperson can use in working with their customers – and goes from there to sample scripts that can be used to address any number of selling situations.
How well does Austin’s Process work? Ask the people who have used it:
“We thought he could put into place a unique marketing program that would at least keep our heads above water. But what occurred instead was that business rose well above our expectations and we flourished, having the biggest sales years in our business history.
The Review
This was an insightful and compelling read. The author did a great job of laying out the steps and lessons he gathered during his career and weaving those lessons into the events and memories of where he acquired them. The educational value of those lessons and the interactive nature of what the author is laying out for readers made this book highly engaging.
The author’s pointed and matter-of-fact writing style allows readers to really get into the lessons he lays out. The details that go into the author’s message to readers and the unique perspective on seeing products to both the consumer directly and the retailers selling these products were enthralling to read. The emphasis on writing out scripts, backing up those lessons with example scripts, and encouraging readers to develop their scripts made this an educational book to get lost in.
The Verdict
Memorable, thoughtful, and enlightening author Austin W. Bunch’s “The Bunch Book of Selling” is a must-read nonfiction business book. The ability to show readers how to utilize clear-cut communication and the improvement to the salesman’s toolkit made this one book you don’t want to miss. Be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Austin Bunch is renowned for his prowess in both practical salesmanship and instructional acumen. He stands as the preeminent industry leader in sales consulting and training within the gift, home accessories, and furniture sectors. With a rich background spanning diverse product categories, Bunch has meticulously distilled his extensive expertise into The Bunch Sales Process” -—a pragmatic methodology for selling just about anything to just about anybody in a variety of industries.
Drawing from years of experience as a salesman, a sales manager, a CEO, and a sales consultant and trainer across numerous enterprises, Bunch has authored “The Bunch Book of Selling,” a practical and comprehensive how-to guide in selling. Bunch modestly positions himself not as a motivational speaker or technical guru, but rather as a purveyor of practical wisdom gleaned through years of learning by trial and error. Every piece of advice is backed up with evidence. His transactional approach revolves around elemental tools such as scripts, pivotal phrases, and common sense, offering both seasoned professionals and neophytes a fresh perspective on telephone, online, and face-to-face interactions. He also explains ‘why’ his methods excel over others.
Testimonials from those who have embraced Bunch’s methodology attest to its transformative impact, taking their businesses from a downturn in sales to unprecedented heights with strong profit margins. As one beneficiary succinctly reflects, the implementation of Bunch’s approach not only surpassed expectations but ushered in an era of unparalleled prosperity, marking the pinnacle of their business’s sales history.
