Tag: author blog

Interview with Author Sherry Brantley 

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I fell in love with the written word, ever since I was introduced to Dr. Seuss! His books were so imaginative, and colorful with great illustrations and characters that I knew in grade school I would be a writer. I wrote poems and short stories starting in grade school and have been writing ever since. 

2) What inspired you to write your book?

Actually, the book was drawn from my own life. I was the one that got the late night call that my mother had passed away even though she hadn’t even been sick. The antics that ensued afterwards were so unbelievable that I thought: You’ve gotta book on your hands with this craziness! Haha!  I also have a fun activity for readers and book club members for them to guess which parts are actually fictional! It’s so much fun when folks find out the truths behind the characters and the writing.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

First, that we, as individuals, understand that we CAN choose peace-no matter what the situation. That doesn’t mean we allow others to get away with treating us horribly, but that we make them aware that we won’t stand for that, and that unfortunately, that MAY mean getting to the same place they’re insisting on bringing to us, but ultimately, WE don’t have to Stay there with them, and we can gracefully choose to move on. That is why you see my characters all do some self-reflection throughout the series, to make themselves aware of the positions they’re in and own up to their own responsibility and accountability. 

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I actually write in several genres’ but fictional is my genre of choice, because you can make the story and characters go where ever you like. But I also have a Parenting book titled ‘Seven Successful Strategies for Divorced Parents,’ which was culled from my time of being a parenting instructor through a program called ‘Building Strong Families,’ at Michigan State University. In addition I have a Poetry book titled ‘All Kinds of Poems for All Kinds of People,’  a Self-help book titled: ‘Choices-The Power is Within You,’ and a Self-Empowerment book titled: S.T.E.P.P. which stands for: Start to Exercise Personal Power. In Addition to those, I also wrote the ‘From Brilliant Bitch to Dynamic Diva’ series of books under a pseudonym- Sady Belafontay.  I love writing about all kinds of topics and all of my books are available at Amazon.

5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

Well, since these characters are from my life, I think I would LOVE to ask my readers THAT question. Haha! But since the character that is not one of the Fabulous Five group, I would like to have a conversation with Shauna regarding what she’d experienced and how it shaped her moral character. 

6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Although my books were all written some time ago, I was busy with ‘life’ and wasn’t properly prepared to market my books, or make the connections needed to develop a readership base, but as I approach retirement this April, I decided to start completely over from scratch to manifest and create the life-long visualization of being a well-known, well read author.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Now that I have time to really focus on marketing-which is just as important on the writing itself, I would encourage aspiring or people that are thinking of becoming a published author, to REALLY take advantage of all of the modern tools, resources, and technologies at their fingertips that we have today. When I started, there was no internet, Facebook, Youtube or Twitter. It was grueling trying to connect with local bookstores as a local author, but even with that being said, I managed to get my First book-Choices- The Power is Within You,’ into the Barnes-N-Noble bookstore chain which was a major feat in itself as it was the largest book retailer in the United States at that time. And even THAT experience was highlighted in sessions I do with my readers today as it was quite interesting-to sat the least. Haha!

8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

Why of course! Right now, I’m working on a fictional novel titled ‘Greyhound Dawgs.’ It has 5 lead characters like my Best of Friends trilogy, but this one revolves around 5 male characters and covers their exploits after retiring from a military black-ops, regime. But for now, my goal is to market the books I currently have on Amazon and to build a great readership fan base for those at this time. 

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If you’re aware of any book clubs that would like to have a virtual ‘Meet and Greet’ with the author, please share their contact information with me, or share my information with them. I’m targeting Book Club members because as you know, they are ALREADY reading & recommending great books! 

https://www.youtube.com/@LifeLessonsLearned-h5q?sub_confirmation=1

www.sherrybrantley.com

A Is For Awkward (and Other Reflections on Belonging) by Marc Kaye Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author Marc Kaye shares a series of essays reflecting on the need and definition of belonging in the book “A Is For Awkward (and Other Reflections on Belonging).”

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The Synopsis

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“Why I remember the events that I do will always remain a mystery. The only plausible reason I can muster is that it asks of me to find what I couldn’t when the experience was happening – a sort of rationale and dignity in the awkwardness.” – Marc Kaye

Some people navigate the world with aplomb and poise. Others take a more circuitous route. In “A is for Awkward: and Other Reflections on Belonging”, Kaye summons a renewed perspective and healthier relationship with the idea of belonging – one where, through his reflections, he connects to people, place, setting and emotion with an affinity that may not originally apparent. In doing so, awkwardness becomes a portal to understanding, not to mention a series of humorous encounters.

From his earliest days as a newborn in Germany through a brace-filled adolescence and onto navigating sludge, fatherhood and aging, Kaye delicately blends wit and sentiment to better understand himself and the world he is a part of. In doing so, we find ourselves a part of his story and our compassion for ourselves, as well.

The Review

This is a compelling and insightful collection of personal essays and nonfiction memoirs that readers can easily identify with. The author’s personable, honest, and reflective writing style allows readers to feel immersed in their memories and culture, and the level of detail and balance of humor, wit, and heart the author pours into this book make the reading experience feel much more connected. 

The theme of this collection is what feels most powerful in the book. The idea that everyone has several aspects of themselves that make them feel isolated or different, and the need to feel like they belong with someone or to something, is a powerful motivator for self-reflection. Yet the heart and connection that occurs when a person finds themselves and realizes those differences come with communities all their own, and it is the journey and the path of learning to love ourselves in the process that makes the reader truly connect with the author’s message.

The Verdict

Heartfelt, insightful, and engaging, author Marc Kaye’s “A Is For Awkward” is a must-read nonfiction memoir and collection of essays readers won’t be able to put down. The powerful connection readers form to the author and his life experiences, the relatability and the compassion that comes with the emotional journey the author goes on, and the humorous look back on their life make this a comfortable and introspective read that readers won’t be able to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to check out this book when it arrives in June 2026!

Rating: 10/10

https://www.marckayetoday.com/coming-soon-02

https://www.marckayetoday.com/

Stolen Prophet (The Prophet’s Mother Book 1) by Julian M. Coleman Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A detective must find a missing boy who is the son of a powerful deity in author Julian M. Coleman’s “Stolen Prophet”, the first book in The Prophet’s Mother series.

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The Synopsis

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Will It Take a MONSTER to Find a Missing Prophet?

Satisfy your supernatural cravings with this intense and urban fantasy thriller from the author of the IAN 2016 Outstanding Paranormal/Supernatural Book of the Year. Right at the beginning of The Prophet’s Mother trilogy, Julian M. Coleman weaves a haunting tale of parental loss, heartbreak, and sacrifice.

Evelyn Adamson isn’t ordinary. She’s a demigoddess pretending an everyday life as a single parent and flower shop owner. Her nine-year-old son Victor is called “prophet” by his classmates, a nickname he hates. Somehow his paranormal ability fails when someone kidnaps him.

Grief-stricken, Evelyn searches for her son during a deceptive blizzard using her supernatural gifts. Soon after, corpses fill up the morgue.

Only one person can find the stolen prophet: the logical and determined Homicide Detective, Harry Kurosawa. But first, he must believe the unexplainable, or more people will die.

The Review

This was such a compelling and gripping dark fantasy and horror tale that perfectly blends unique mythology with haunting crime drama. The imagery in the author’s writing brought both the god-like characters and visceral crime scenes to life for the reader, who felt gritty and immersed, and the action felt fast-paced, adding a good amount of tension to the narrative.

The heart of the story was in the character development and mythos. The infusion of Orisha gods and the human/demigod narrative style was a great balance to the murder and kidnapping investigations involving Harry, and the inclusion of a deadly cult-level threat added untold danger to the protagonist’s story. Yet the heartbreaking realities of the parent-child relationship took center stage throughout much of the story, as the history of Evie’s bloodline and the haunting realities of what it means to gain these god-like powers made this a thrilling and enthralling novel.

The Verdict

Thrilling, haunting, and entertaining, author Julian M. Coleman’s “Stolen Prophet” is a must-read dark fantasy novel and a great entry in this urban fantasy series. The twists and turns the story takes, the gruesome and shocking events that unfold, and the cliffhanger ending make this an inviting and rich series to get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

I’m a 2016 IAN Paranormal/Supernatural Award Winning author who grew up in Richmond, Virginia. My family was poor, but my imagination was rich. I suffered from bad dreams. I still dream about demons, but now those dreams provide the sauces to my stories.

By day I’m run-of-the-mill analyst grinding out data within a dark blue cubby, but by night I churn out horrific stories based on the demons that haunt me in nightmares.

https://www.juliancoleman.net/

Assumptions by A.A. SEKHON Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A man wakes up in 19th-century London in the morgue in author A.A. Sekhon’s “Assumptions.”

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The Synopsis

“He awoke in a morgue in London.”

So begins Assumptions, a character-driven novella with a flair for mystery. Set in 1880s London and written by a historical scholar, it serves not only as a study of late Victorian society but of the complexities of human nature itself. Enjoy the first chapter of this page-turner, and you’ll want more!

The Review

This was such a richly woven narrative. The Victorian-era setting was written with such depth and insight that readers instantly felt they could step into the ghastly streets of 19th-century London. The imagery and atmosphere of the story were heavy with dread and shocking events, adding a healthy amount of tension and suspense to the narrative.

The heart of this novella lay in its character development. Instantly, readers are drawn in by the opening sentence, and, without going into much detail, as the story progresses, they are introduced to a unique and deeply human take on an iconic Victorian-era literary figure that keeps them invested. The bond between the protagonist and his friend John, the mystery of how the protagonist ended up in the morgue, and the deeply insightful look into human nature and psychology made this a compelling novella.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, entertaining, and compelling, author A.A. Sekhon’s “Assumptions” is a must-read Victorian-era mystery thriller. The twists and turns, the shocking levels of suspense, and the rich character dynamics at work in this novella immediately hook readers, and the author’s harrowing imagery creates the atmosphere needed to fully immerse readers in the world. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

A. A. Sekhon, an avid scholar and student of history and human nature, earned a B. A. as a W. T. Young scholar at Transylvania University, an esteemed liberal arts university, and a Master of Arts in Diplomacy—specializing in history and political science—at the Patterson School of Diplomacy at the University of Kentucky. A native of Lexington, Kentucky, Sekhon has taught classes in history and in political science at a local university there. Assumptions is Sekhon’s first book.

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https://www.instagram.com/aasekhonauthor/

Eye Spied Serenity Acres: The Prequel (Serenity Acres: Where Secrets Barely Stay Hidden Book 3) by Crystal Quast Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A couple in post-war Europe faces the power of secrets and lies in author Crystal Quast’s “Eye Spied Serenity Acres: The Prequel.”

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The Synopsis

A new map is emerging after the war, and not all of the lines have been drawn. After nearly a decade on the run, Zosia and her husband take refuge as caretakers of an old inn.

But soon, rumors and a shameful secret threaten to shatter their hard-won peace. Spies, lies, and raids drag them back into the world they tried to escape. Zosia has a plan to get them out, but at what cost?

Before Serenity Acres, there was a town too beautiful to be true. Of course it was. That’s where the secrets started.

The Review

What has always been so compelling about this series is how in-depth it is in exploring rich characters. The haunting nature of war and its impact on those not only who fought in it but also survived it are greatly explored in this novel’s setting, and the mystery and intrigue that occurs when people are missing and no one knows where everyone is after the deadly battles that have been fought kept the narrative moving forward greatly in this story.

The way this story and its characters set up the rest of the series, and the depth of intrigue the specific setting holds, are the narrative’s greatest hooks. The dynamic between the two protagonists is tense and keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they push not only each other but themselves into paths that shock even themselves in order to find a sense of self-preservation and survival. The horrors that the two face and the theme that no matter how hard a person tries, they cannot deny who they are on the inside made this story so incredibly captivating.

The Verdict

Remarkable, haunting, and enthralling, author Crystal Quast’s “Eye Spied” is a must-read entry in the Serenity Acres series and a compelling suspense thriller. The world-building and mystery add depth to the narrative, and the haunting way the book explores the depths humanity is willing to sink to survive and escape its own reality is the perfect setup for the rest of the series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on April 15th, 2026, or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

With over twenty years of spinning stories in corporate communications, Dinked: Serenity Acres. Where Secrets Barely Stay Hidden is Crystal Quast’s debut novel. When she’s not writing, Crystal loves playing pickleball and tennis, paddleboarding, hiking, and spending time with her family.

EDMUND DULAC’S ARABIAN NIGHTS AMERICAN WEEKLY ILLUSTRATIONS: TALES FROM THE ARABIAN NIGHTS (EDMUND DULAC’S AMERICAN WEEKLY ILLUSTRATIONS)

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Albert Seligman shares this incredible edition of the classic Arabian Nights from Edmund Dulac.

The Synopsis 

In 1923, “Edmund Dulac, the Distinguished English Artist,”as he was billed on the front covers, was contracted by the Hearst organization to paint watercolors for The American Weekly. He illustrated thirteen different series with 106 watercolors from 1924’s ‘Bible Scenes and Heroes’ through 1951’s ‘Tales from the Arabian Nights’.

The two series presented here are the 1925 ‘Characters from the Arabian Nights’ and the 1951 ‘Tales from the Arabian Nights’. The 1951 series was narrated by Watson Crewes, the staff writer for The American Weekly. We have included them with the cover illustration. There were no stories in the 1925 series, but the illustrations were all covered in the earlier book versions of The Arabian Nights which brought Dulac his initial recognition and early success.

The frontispiece for the series was Sheherezade, which was also the frontispiece for his first Arabian Nights in 1907. This was his first “Gift Book” for his publisher Hodder & Stoughton with fifty color illustrations mounted on heavy art paper at the rear of the book.

Sheherezade was, of course, the storyteller of all the 1001 stories in the Arabian Nights, which took her over three years to recount to her husband, the Sultan. She is the daughter of the Grand Vizier, and volunteered to marry the Sultan to stop him from carrying out his habit of murdering his new wife after their wedding night. She began each story, and stopped before the ending, so that the Sultan would postpone her execution till the following day to hear the ending. At the end of the three years, he renounced his vile habit, and they lived happily ever after.

The next illustration is the familiar ‘Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp’. There are two more illustrations from this tale in this series, ‘Princess Badroulboudour’ and ‘News Lamps for Old’.

Aladdin was a young boy from China who lived with his mother. His father had died recently when mysteriously his father’s brother appeared to console the family, who had never heard of him. He tricked Aladdin into helping him find a magic lamp with a powerful Genie trapped inside. But Aladdin managed to foil his plan and used the Genie to marry the Princess and build a beautiful palace where, after a few mis-adventures, they lived happily ever after.

The Caliph Haroun Al Raschid was the Commander of the Faithful in Bagdad and was involved with several of the tales of the 1001 Nights. He often would disguise himself and go wandering at night into the city to see and talk to his subjects

The tale of ‘Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves’ was included in the 1907 edition, and repeats here with different versions of the earlier drawings of Ali Baba and his slave girl Morgiana pouring hot oil in the jars where the forty thieves are hiding. Here, Ali Baba drives his mules with a contented smile, probably as he returns home with sacks of the thieves’ gold. And Morgiana has a beatific smile as she pours boiling oil on to the thieves who threaten the life of her master and herself.

The next illustration was mistakenly captioned by the editors at Hearst. Here we see the Prince staring at a bird who holds a talisman in his beak. This is not the story of the ‘Talking Bird’, also known as ‘The Three Sisters’, but the bird who led Prince Kemerezzeman astray from Princess Badoura, as you will read in the 1951 series.

‘Sindbad the Sailor and the Roc’ is again a repeat of the illustration from the 1914 edition. Here Sindbad, in his second voyage, ties himself to the leg of the gigantic Roc bird to be carried to where the diamonds are to be found.

The final illustration is ‘The Enchanted Horse’ made of ivory and ebony which will fly through the air to any destination the rider desires. Here the Prince mounts the magic horse and, without yet knowing the secret of how to manipulate the flight, takes off into the unknown to find his Princess and his fortune.

The Review 

This was a stunning and incredible read. The book perfectly captures both the love and passion for the classic Arabian Nights while also showcasing the history of Edmund Dulac. The way the editor formatted this addition perfectly allowed readers to absorb the general stories found in this classic well appreciating the unique artistry and illustrations from this 1923 edition.

Of course, as a big fan of this story, one of my favorite illustrations from the artist was of Aladdin and the genie, and seeing the power of these illustrations and how culture in history impacted the way art changed over time allowed the history in the era for which of this art came from to really shine in this book. The editor also did a great job of highlighting the history of the publication. This addition came from which was called the American weekly.

The Verdict 

Entertaining, memorable, and fascinating, Albert Seligman’s “Edmund Dulac’s Arabian Nights” is a must read addition of an iconic and a well put together collection of stories. Fans of the classics and fans of illustrated books will really appreciate the history in the culture found in this collection and while each story is perfectly summarized, the book inspires readers to delve deeper into each story, not only to fully engage in the stories, but in what inspired these stories to come to fruition. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today.

https://a.co/d/06qWxyqt

Bankable Buyer by Byron K. McFarland Review 

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author Byron K. McFarland shares the experience and insights gained from selling a business to the right people in “Bankable Buyer.”

The Synopsis 

When the Buyer Is Already in the Building

For owners who want more than a transaction, Bankable Buyer explores one of the most overlooked—and most misunderstood—exit paths: selling a business to the people who already know it best.

Through real-world scenarios, behind-the-scenes analysis, and practical reflection, this book examines what it takes to prepare a management team to become a credible buyer—and what owners must consider long before an exit is forced by circumstance.

This is not a how-to manual or a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a clear-eyed look at readiness, risk, and responsibility—for both sellers and future owners.

If protecting your people, your culture, and your legacy matters as much as the numbers, this book belongs on your desk.

The Review 

This was a compelling and insightful read. The balance the Author found in both the financial and human aspects of not only owning a business, but of making sure that business goes into the right hands was refreshing to see play out in this book. The author does a remarkable job of writing in a way that feels personal and speaks to each individual reader in a different way.

The heart of this book was in the careful framework of the authors experiences in selling their business in coming up with a clear succession plan. While thoroughly detailed, the author never lets up on loading the reader, now the emotional impact of selling a business and what it took to get that business up and running to begin with. Finding the right person or persons to run us something you created showcases how important humanity is in business not just profit. The pacing is perfect and allows readers to pick this book up time and time again on needing help in creating their own succession plans.

The Verdict 

Compelling, written with authority, and highly engaging, author Byron K McFarland’s “Bankable Buyer” is a must read non-fiction business book. An emotional and inspirational written book, the author showcases why it is so important to have a succession plan in order and the importance of finding the right people to take your business and the direction you intended it to be taken in making this a perfect reference book that readers can pick up time and time again. If you haven’t yet, please be sure to grab your copy of this book today!

Rating: 10/10

Official Links

• Amazon Listing: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GD7MJ6YQ

• Website: https://www.themcfarlandgroup.com/

• Byron’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/byronkmcfarland/

• The McFarland Group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-mcfarland-group/

• YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMcFarlandGroup

“Government Grade” by Solid Gold Single REVIEW

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn music review, Music ReviewsLeave a comment

The current political and social unrest in the United States has become a source of contention and strife for many Americans, and much of that unrest stems from events in recent months in Minnesota. From innocent Americans being killed by government agents to several men, women, and children being taken, whether they are here in the United States illegally or not, there have been so many injustices that, understandably, people are becoming upset and angry at the situation. No matter what one’s political beliefs are, the haunting actions of a specific agency in Minnesota should be disheartening and unbearable to witness by everyone, and should be something everyone rallies around to get the word out and make change happen.

That is the message behind Solid Gold’s latest single, “Government Grade.” The electronic rock band challenges audiences to take a hard look at the events happening in Minnesota and search their hearts to see how wrong these events are. The usually hard-hiting rock riffs and electronic sound the band is known for have taken on new life thanks to the subject matter, replaced by a balance of soulful guitar riffs, haunting vocals that feel like a blend of Coldplay and the Smashing Pumpkins, and fiery and passionate lyrics that feel like a moment of self-reflection for the Twin Cities and the country as a whole.

Heartfelt and compelling, this single is a subtle yet compelling reminder to audiences not to let the constant barrage of horrors our world is facing right now diminish the continued affronts that so many in Minnesota continue to face, and the horrors that have already occurred there. If you haven’t yet, be sure to listen to the single right now!

Disco: https://s.disco.ac/icpzxkwaodoo

Bandcamp: https://solidgold.bandcamp.com/

Website: www.solidgoldband.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/solidgoldcorp

STREAMING VIA BANDCAMP:

https://solidgold.bandcamp.com/track/government-grade

STREAMING VIA SPOTIFY:

More Than Just Luck by Greg Wier Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author Greg Wier shares the personal triumphs that led him to where he is today in the memoir “More Than Just Luck.”

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The Synopsis

A Tale of Survival and Success

Fresh out of high school in the early ’80s, a young man named Greg Wier chose marriage and family over carefree nights with friends. But with adulthood came the fast reality of car and mortgage payments, and responsibility quickly replaced the party life. Armed with nothing but determination and an unshakable will to succeed, Greg not only made a living but carved a path through dangerous times and bold risks—rising all the way to the top.

This must-read story is one of survival, grit, and the relentless pursuit of success in a world where status and possessions define the game. Greg overcame competitors with hard work, battled legal and business challenges with sheer instinct, and proved that winning isn’t just about running the race—it’s about finishing first.

A gripping, inspirational read for anyone who wants to learn not only how to compete, but how to thrive. A true thriller of perseverance and triumph.

The Review

A refreshingly honest, compelling memoir, the author does an incredible job of writing in a way that feels both conversational and inspiring. The author’s writing style holds no punches, speaking directly to the reader and revealing the gritty side of both his life and life in the world of personal security. The shocking stories the author relates to readers, from both a personal and professional angle, are astonishing, to say the least, and prove that some of the most compelling stories come from the most unlikely of places.

At the heart of this narrative is the story of family, both family found and family lost. The lengths that a person is willing to go to be responsible and take care of their family, and the ways in which family shapes who we become. The relatability and emotional core of the author’s story will resonate with so many readers, and the balance this strikes with the more humorous and striking narratives the author reveals makes this memoir incredibly engaging.

The Verdict

Honest, enthralling, and inspiring, author Greg Wier’s “More Than Just Luck” is a must-read nonfiction memoir. The detailed, in-depth stories the author relays to readers, and the way the book explores both financial freedom and family responsibility, make this feel like a memorable nonfiction read that will resonate with readers for years to come. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Greg Wier did not ease into adulthood — he was forced into it.

Four months after graduating high school, he was married. Five months later, he was a father. With no safety net and few opportunities in the early 1980s, survival became a matter of discipline and resolve.

At nineteen, he started his first business: a janitorial company cleaning apartment hallways. It failed quickly. He lost his only account and was dismissed from the job. But the lesson was permanent. If he wanted control of his future, he would have to build it himself.

Greg took a job as a security guard. It changed the trajectory of his life. He learned the business from the inside — operations, sales, trust, and how power actually moves. Years later, he partnered with others to launch a security company that grew rapidly. On the surface, it looked like success. Privately, it was unraveling. A partner was stealing, supporting two families, and driving the company toward court judgments, bankruptcy, and multiple attempts on Greg’s life.

Greg walked away and rebuilt.

Then rebuilt again.

Another company collapsed under theft, drugs, and internal disorder. In 2002, Greg made a defining decision: no partners. no excuses. only accountability. What followed was his strongest rise. He built a major security company, expanded into residential real estate, and entered the music business. In 2005, the sale of his security company made him a millionaire at forty-one.

Greg reinvested in music, working with national artists and developing new talent until one artist chose self-destruction over success and the business collapsed without warning. He responded with his boldest move yet: purchasing a nine-story, 100,000-square-foot commercial office building. It became the base of operations for a new structure — a guard company, an entertainment company, and an electronics business, each occupying its own floor.

For the next twelve years, those companies expanded beyond expectation. The cost was personal. Partners left. Greg remained. Seven days a week. On call at all hours. The pressure was constant.

In 2022, he sold the business — the most relieving and most difficult decision of his life. What he built was gone, and one truth became clear: the work was never the mistake. Sharing a vision with people who did not carry it was.

Today, Greg waits — not in retreat, but in preparation. Preparing to return on his own terms, with full control of the vision he once built.

His story is not about luck.

It is not about timing.

It is not about chance.

It is about endurance.

It is about consequence.

it is about finishing what you start.

https://linktr.ee/morethanjustluck

https://www.instagram.com/morethanjustluck