I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman struggles to understand her growing feelings and her identity as a bisexual woman in author Nicole Haldoupis’s “Tiny Ruins”.
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The Synopsis
“The dahlias on Sara’s dress scrunched and stretched with her body as she spun on the grass and Alana couldn’t understand why no one else was mesmerized.” Tiny Ruins is a coming-of-age and coming out story that follows Alana, as she grows up, discovers, and tries to understand her bisexuality. Small windows offer us a glimpse of Alana’s memories, often fragmentary, fleeting, and touching. When she confides in her sister that she is attracted to girls, she is met with disbelief, and so the secret is kept and Alana continues as the outsider looking in.
The Review
This is a beautiful and emotional novella. The author has crafted quite an incredible and unique tale that comes in the form of snapshots of memories and events in the protagonist’s life. From the ups and downs of childhood to the hardships and struggles those in their teens coming to terms with who they are and the peer pressure to hide from everyone around them and so much more, this novella perfectly captures the growing up experience.
The snapshot storytelling component really works here. Each page has sections that look like direct dives into the protagonist’s memories, speaking on random events and experiences that somehow come together to tell a cohesive character-driven narrative that captures so many different emotional beats.
The Verdict
A short yet powerful and emotional read, author Nicole Haldoupis’s “Tiny Ruins” is a must-read novella. The story that evolves throughout the protagonist’s life is memorable and relatable, especially to anyone in the LGBTQ community who has ever had to deal with conflicting feelings and the journey of understanding who they are. From accepting her own sexuality to a conflict-filled relationship with her sister and the long journey into adulthood, this is a fantastic read that is not to be missed. Be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Nicole Haldoupis is a queer writer, editor, and designer from Toronto. She’s the outgoing Editor of Grain and a co-creator of untethered and Applebeard Editions. Her work can be found in Bad Dog Review, The Feathertale Review, Bad Nudes, and others. Her first book, Tiny Ruins (Radiant Press, 2020), is a novel made up of linked flash fiction pieces. Find her on Instagram and Twitter @nicolehaldoupis.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Peter C. Mitchell takes readers on a heartbreaking journey that shows how a simple mistake and bad luck can take the best of us down a road of misery and heartache in his book, “Rude Awakenings from Sleeping Rough”.
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The Synopsis
This is a story that the charities don’t want you to read. This is the fate that can befall any of us that you don’t want to acknowledge.
For years you have passed them on the streets, as much a part of your routine as your morning shower, your half-hearted scan of the world’s news — fake or otherwise — and the barista who artistically crafts the £4 cappuccino with soya milk, three drops of vanilla, and a flutter of chocolate sprinkles that has to be made just right or it throws your day off in ways that nobody else understands.
You see them as often as you see your own family. The disenfranchised. The rough sleepers. The homeless. Camped out and befouling the sidewalks and alleyways of your daily commute, their worldly possessions, such as they are, spread around them –as dirty and worn out as the sleepers themselves, but as valuable to them as your £100 brogues are to you.
Occasionally you get the urge to throw some loose change at them as a gesture of magnanimous humanity, but when push comes to shove you would rather tip the honest, hard-working barista who ensures your day gets off to a proper start. Better to support the successful rather than throw good money after bad trying to keep the great unwashed afloat.
You have conditioned yourself to look through them – allowing your eyes to pass over them without actually seeing them. A defeated acceptance of lives gone wrong; uncomfortable reminders of what can happen when the best laid plans of mice and men go horribly awry. “Thank god I’m not like them,” you think, sipping your £4 cup of liquid gold. “I could never let that happen to me.”
Until suddenly – inexplicably – it does. And you discover the life you have built was nothing more than a house of cards that crashed down around you with frightening ease. A spate of bad luck, a poor decision or two, and the ubiquitous ‘circumstances beyond your control’ conspire to create a perfect storm of events that leaves you cast away on the streets feeling dazed, disjointed, and damned.
This is Peter C. Mitchell’s story. But it could be your story. Not to mention the thousands of others, past and present, that have found themselves broken behind closed charity doors. Theirs are the stories that need to be heard. To be read.
The Review
A masterful and expertly written book, author Peter C. Mitchell does a phenomenal job of relaying the hardships and struggles of being forced to live on the streets and endure the horrors that await those forced into those positions. He also shocks readers with a raw and emotional look into the real world struggles of those seeking shelter and help from charities and housing and the realities of those charities and the “work” they do.
The book itself is thoroughly written and well organized, and the author’s descriptive style of writing really paints a picture of the realities of homelessness and poverty, as well as the living situation of those seeking help in what should be a sanctuary. The book also does a fantastic job of highlighting the need for more guidance and insight from government officials when it comes to travel and immigration, as a simple clerical error or lack of effort by an employee could lead to years of misery for the average traveler.
The Verdict
Powerful, evenly-paced, and educational, author Peter C. Mitchell’s “Rude Awakenings from Sleeping Rough” is the non-fiction, memoir-style read you didn’t know you needed. As many more people have become affected both physically and financially from the COVDI-19 Pandemic and the homeless population has been hit by the virus hard, coming to understand those who find themselves living on the streets has never been more important. Finding a means of not only understanding the homeless but identifying with them and reminding them and ourselves they are human beings is an important first step in trying to solve this crisis. If you haven’t yet, grab a copy of this truly engaging read today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
London born, Canadian raised Peter Mitchell was bumbling his way through a moderately successful career in business journalism when an investigation into a story on Corporate Social Responsibility inspired him to look beyond profit margins and PR into the very real problems faced by society. This inspiration prompted him to dip his toes into a self-confessed Sanity/Vanity project of a biography of his great, great grandfather, Sir John Kirk.
As Secretary of The Ragged School Union, John championed the causes of children, the disabled, and the working poor in Victorian-era London. His influence extended beyond the city limits, and his life proved more interesting than previous biographies revealed. Dust-buried references have surfaced in the most obscure locales, showing the consequences—both good and bad—to the ragged and crippled children John Kirk devoted his life to help.
In 2017, Peter returned to London to complete his research and begin the writing of “A Knight in the Slums.” The past was ready to be mined, and the future was assured. The present, however, took an unpredictable -and darkly ironic—turn.
A series of unfortunate events transpired, creating a perfect storm of calamities leaving Peter penniless and sleeping rough. He had unwittingly fallen victim to the same societal ailments John Kirk fought. That nightmare inadvertently provided him with an inside look into the current workings of these same systems put in place by his great, great grandfather, and others like him, put in place over a century ago. That experience frightened him more than the horrors of homelessness itself.
Armed with the scars of this unexpected, but disturbingly relevant, knowledge Peter continues to work on “A Knight in the Slums” with renewed insight. John Kirk created solutions over 100 years ago that are still in play today. Times have changed; yet the solutions have stagnated, and proven to not be solutions, but mechanisms that perpetuate the cycle of poverty: a Hell’s Carousel funded by well-meant individuals and institutions blinded by the brand of “charity.” New systems need to be developed; new solutions need to be found.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
As the Kingdom of England threatens to take over Wales, two siblings must use their magic gifts to save their home. Yet one must choose to save their sibling, or the love of their life, in author Marie Powell’s “Water Sight”, the second book in the Last of the Gifted series.
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The Synopsis
Wales, 1283: A world at war
Catrin can see the future in a drop of water.
Her brother Hyw can take the shape of any bird or animal.
Only their magic can thwart the invading English forces determined to bring down the country.
The Prince of Wales needs three magical relics to rally the straggling Welsh forces. Catrin’s gift of Second Sight may be the only hope for success—if she can outwit the English lord who wants to use her gift to capture the prince.
Her brother Hyw is on the run with the prince and the dwindling Welsh army. To escape the betrayal dogging their heels, Hyw takes refuge in his evolving gift—until shifting shapes puts his humanity in jeopardy.
With Hyw trapped in his magic and her betrothed in an English jail, Catrin faces an impossible choice: save her brother, or save the man she loves.
The Review
An incredible read, author Marie Powell showcases a strong mastery of the fantasy/historical fiction style storytelling that has become so popular over the years. The protagonists, brother and sister Hyw and Cat, are well rounded, and the author does an amazing job of highlighting the well-rounded nature of each hero, flaws and all.
The emotional core of the story is Cat’s struggle to not only save her people but protect her brother and the man she loves all at the same time while helping to fight off the English invaders led by King Edward. The amount of history the author was able to incorporate into the narrative was amazing. As a history buff, it was incredible to learn more about the era before Wales officially became part of England, when revolts were fought to maintain their independence and kingdom. The fantasy elements feel natural as the story progresses, as each hero’s power leads to difficult choices that many readers will be able to identify with.
The Verdict
An amazingly written, emotionally driven, and fantasy-fueled read, author Marie Powell’s second entry into the Last of the Gifted series, “Water Sight”, is a must-read for fans of the historical fiction/fantasy genres. Action-packed and evenly paced, this is the perfect end of 2020 fantasy book for all readers, but especially fans of the YA genre. Be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Marie Powell’s castle-hopping across North Wales to explore her family roots resulted in her YA historical fantasy Spirit Sight (Last of the Gifted Book 1). Book 2, Water sight, will be released in fall 2020. Among other degrees, she holds a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing from the University of BC. Marie lives on Treaty 4 land in Regina, Saskatchewan, and her writing workshops are popular across the region.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Two young people struggling with their own complicated lives make a strong connection together, and soon find themselves forced to live the other’s life in author Marc Kage’s “Connected to Me”.
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The Synopsis
Aoi Kanemoto is Japanese, cute, shy, and a certified genius. Despite graduating top of her class at Caltech, she struggles to find a job in the fast-paced tech industry. Her family, although very loving, doesn’t understand her at all, and her little sister seems poised for success. But Aoi suffers from deep seated trust issues, that keep her from pursuing her dreams.
Then she meets Christian Sterling at a local ramen shop. An Afro-Hispanic foster child and fellow tech-head, Christian’s gentle demeanor and kind gestures cut through Aoi’s emotional barrier. But as they chat and grow closer, the shy girl’s anxiety causes her to flee the restaurant, before he can even ask for her number. Getting ditched is bad enough, but Christian has no idea that this chance encounter is about to turn both their lives upside down.
The next morning, Christian and Aoi are shocked to wake up in each other’s bodies. They have no idea how to get back! As Aoi discovers how lonely Christian’s life really is, Christian must confront Aoi’s strict parents, and help her find the courage to stand up for herself once and for all. And the more they learn about each other’s lives, the deeper they fall in love. But are they trapped in each other’s bodies forever? And if they do switch back, will their new-found romance survive?
The Review
A truly unique twist on the classic “Freaky Friday” body-switch storyline. The author does a great job of developing these two protagonists and their own underlying struggles quite well. The story flows smoothly thanks to detailed and passionate writing, and the emotional bond the two protagonists share with one another can be felt as each chapter goes on.
What really stood out to me from a narrative perspective was the entire concept of the body-switch, as both protagonists are tech-based geniuses and spend so much time in the world of science that it is fascinating to see how they deal with this almost magical-like situation. Culture also plays a great role in the narrative as well, and Silicon Valley has never felt more alive in this romantic setting.
The Verdict
A gripping, heartfelt, and evenly-paced narrative, author Marc Kage’s “Connected to Me” is a must-read romance for the modern era. Dealing with mental health and anxiety-based struggles, loneliness, romance, and wonder, the novel is the perfect escape as we head into the final weeks of 2020. Be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Marc Kage was Born and Raised in Livingston, New Jersey. He graduated from Livingston High School in 2009 and graduated from Montclair State University with a BA in Georgraphy in 2016. Marc currently resides in Bowie, Maryland. When Marc is not writing, he enjoys working out, eating and most importantly, learning new things about this dysfunctional planet.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
After being chased around the world, a group of survivors desperately fighting a war against a corporation putting devices to control the population inside of everyone’s heads find hard truths and shocking revelations in author Taya DeVere’s “Unchipped: The Resort”, the fifth book in this ever growing sci-fi series.
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The Synopsis
In a war-torn world, they’ve found their sanctuary… if not for those bodies in the basement.
The rebels against the Happiness-Program have finally found a place to hide, an abandoned resort in Iceland complete with a luxury hotel. Everything would be perfect here if not for their memories, haunting them each in different ways.
For Bill, it’s the friend he left behind in California… not knowing whether she’s alive or dead. For Luna, it’s the man from City of Serbia, inviting her to give up on the rebellion and return home to him. For Ava it’s the woman who used to take care of her, and who she expects to hear from any day.
For rebel leader Kaarina, it’s the need for revenge… and the basement of the hotel may give her the opportunity. Because the basement contains four stasis capsules, and the unconscious bodies of four men and women… the founders of the Happiness-Program.
If they can wake up the founders, the rebels could finally be free forever. They could strike a blow against the enemy, turning the tide in the ongoing war. But waking up the all-but-dead can have unforeseen consequences…
***If you liked Brave New World, you’re going to love the Unchipped series!
***Get free early access to Unchipped short stories, plus the Unchipped prequel, The Meeting, by signing up for my newsletter @TayaDeVere (dot) com!
The Review
A truly fantastic entry into this growing sci-fi world, the author shocks fans and newcomers alike with the twists and turns this latest chapter introduces. The true threat of Dr. Solomon and her creations comes to light in this read, giving readers a glimpse into the terrifying blueprint the antagonist has laid out before them.
The personal character relationships are strong within this book, as several of the protagonists from the first several books finally come together, but each is given their own struggles and secrets to overcoming in this narrative, making this short yet powerful read shine all the brighter. Kaarina and Luna especially have strong and emotional arcs, especially in the final chapter as the twists keep coming and coming to the rag-tag group of survivors.
The Verdict
A powerful, creative and entertaining read, author Taya DeVere’s “Unchipped: The Resort”, is a must-read in the growing sci-fi universe the author is creating. With shocking moments and powerful imagery used throughout the narrative, the book’s shocking cliff-hanger will leave readers on the edge of their seat, desperately waiting for book six in the series to arrive. The perfect read and gift for the sci-fi fan in your life, be sure to grab this and the previous entries in the Unchipped universe today!
Taya is a Finnish-American author, writing contemporary fiction and dystopian sci-fi. After living, working, and traveling in America for seven years, she now lives in Finland with her partner-in-everything Chris, their dog Seamus, three bunny-boys (Ronin, Baby, and Loki), and her horse of a lifetime, Arabella.
Taya’s restless feet have taken her all over Finland, the United Kingdom, and North America. Her new dystopian series “Unchipped” is inspired by the real-life characters she’s met on her travels. Cultural differences, social issues, and behavioral psychology have always fascinated Taya. “Unchipped” tells the story of the world in 2085, when technology has replaced people’s need to truly connect with one another. The series describes what it feels like to be an outsider and takes an in-depth look at the unlikely friendships between perfectly imperfect people across the globe.
Justice. Kindness. The fact that all beings on this planet are equally important. Taya’s world revolves around these values every day, and they play a substantial role in her storytelling as well.
Taya’s writing is inspired by authors such as Margaret Atwood, Peter Heller, Hugh Howey, and C.M. Martens.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman with a fascinating yet deadly power must decide what her place in the nations of Ilmar and what kind of person she wants to be in author J.M. Landels’ “Allaigna’s Song: Overture”, the first in the Allaigna’s Song series.
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The Synopsis
You can’t hide from magic when it’s in your blood …
When Allaigna was seven she almost sang her baby brother to sleep — forever. She may be heir to neither her mother’s titles nor her secrets, but she has inherited her grandmother’s dangerous talent for singing music into magic. As her education proceeds from nursery to weapons ground to the rank of royal page, it becomes increasingly hard to keep her heritage and abilities hidden.
Secrets, it seems, are stock-in-trade for her family, and as Allaigna works to keep her own, she uncovers two that will affect both her life and the unstable peace of the Ilmar nations. One is the fate of her grandmother, who married a prince, turning the gift of the Sight into a double-edged weapon of state. The other is the truth behind her mother’s two-week disappearance following an ambush by outlaws en route to her wedding.
As she discovers who she is, Allaigna must decide what to become: the skilled courtier her mother wants her to be, the political chess piece her father bargained on, or the hero her grandmother foresaw.
Allaigna’s Song: Overture is a love story, a family saga, and a coming-of-age novel that braids together the stories of daughter, mother, and grandmother into a rich and deftly woven narrative.
Readers are saying
“Beautiful writing and gripping storytelling throughout.”
“Allaigna, Lauresa, and Irdaign are tough, flawed, and appealing heroines.”
“Great tension, big world, perfect pacing, intriguing politics and lovely magic.”
“Magically unputdownable!”
The Review
This was a truly fascinating read. Immediately what stands out is how the author’s tale takes readers into an already established world from author Scott Fitzgerald Gray, set within the nations of Ilmar within the larger world of the Endlands. However, despite the author’s deep dive into this richly established fantasy world, this original story stands out on its own feet.
The core of this story is the amazing character development of three generations of women. Between protagonist Allaigna, her mother Lauresa, and her grandmother, the characters showcase a powerful, women-driven narrative that becomes the foundation of this new chapter in the fantasy realm. A healthy blend of magic, adventure and emotional storytelling set against the backdrop of family and political drama allow this story to be elevated to all new heights as well.
The Verdict
Powerfully written and lengthy yet engaging throughout the entirety of the novel, author J.M. Landels’ “Allaigna’s Song: Overture” is a must-read epic fantasy. The story is entertaining and driven by strong emotions, allowing the reader to become invested in the characters throughout this tale. By the book’s end, an open-ended final chapter allows readers to hang on the author’s every word and promises a strong sequel in the process. If you haven’t yet be sure to grab your copy of this fascinating book today.
JM Landels divides her professional time between writing, editing, drawing, and teaching people to swordfight from horseback. She has no hobbies, since they all tend to turn into professions.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Tricia Silverman takes readers on a journey of health and better living utilizing expert tips on proper ways of eating and how to properly invest in one’s health in the book “Healthy Dividends”.
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The Synopsis
Want to lose weight, gain energy, increase productivity, and live a longer, healthier life?
As an expert in nutrition, wellness coaching, and fitness, Tricia Silverman shares countless tips in this book. These tips are investments that yield the results—or wellness dividends—you desire.
Wondering how to start eating healthy, or how to lose weight?
Learn the nuts and bolts of the NuTricia’s Way of Eating. Use Tricia’s Nutrition Staircase to learn the steps you can take on your journey toward optimal health. Learn easy ways to figure out how many calories and protein grams you need. Learn why the Keto and Paleo diets may be shortening your lifespan, and even setting the stage for cancer, heart disease, and more!
Hoping to live a long, flourishing life?
Explore Tricia’s 10 Tips for Longevity! She’ll reveal what she’s learned from teaching Healthy Aging at Northeastern University, visiting areas of longevity, and leading the Active Aging Nutrition Certification across the US for the SCW Fitness Education Company. Read about Elizabeth, who lost almost one hundred pounds and saved thousands on copays for medications and healthcare services she no longer needs!
Looking to learn more about healthy shopping and restaurant eating?
Learn how to plan your shopping and meals to save time and money. Learn about the NuTricia’s T Plan for dining out, so you can enjoy a restaurant meal while still supporting your nutrition and wellness goals.
By investing just a few hours in reading this book, you will learn:
How to reduce cravings, eat more mindfully, and form healthier habits that stick How making a vision board can lead to a more successful, healthful, happy life Why to avoid certain food additives Tips from real people who have lost weight and kept it off Ideas for healthy meals and snacks How to motivate yourself to move more and enhance your fitness How food logging apps and meal plans can support your weight loss efforts Seven simple strategies to boost memory, mental functioning, and mood How to optimize your sleep through nutrition and healthy habits How to manage stress to feel and do your best
Invest your time in implementing Tricia’s strategies, and you will soon be enjoying your own healthy dividends!
The Review
This was a greatly researched, evenly paced, and knowledgeable read. The author utilizes years of experience to showcase how people can get a better handle on their own health journey and invest in the right tools and information to gain that healthy life most people are searching for.
The book was incredibly well-written, showcasing a light-hearted approach that makes readers more receptive and open to hearing the information the author is imparting. Showing her own journey of weight loss and healthy living, the author establishes herself as an expert in the field while relating to readers who may be struggling to find their own healthy lifestyle. Examining things like smart shopping and reading labels to reducing sugar intake and even how to integrate a healthy lifestyle into the choices one makes while out at a restaurant, this book holds a great deal of valuable information for readers to absorb.
The Verdict
A unique, passionate, and knowledgeable read, author Tricia Silverman’s “Healthy Dividends” is must-read non-fiction and healthy lifestyle read. The author’s insightful look into the world of healthy living is remarkable to see unfold, as is the wealth of knowledge the author imparts throughout this book. Be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Tricia Silverman is a registered dietitian, a certified wellness coach (Wellcoaches), and a certified fitness instructor (ACE personal trainer/AFAA group fitness instructor). She graduated with honors from SUNY Oneonta’s dietetics program, and the Babson College MBA program. She completed her dietetic internship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a Harvard teaching affiliate.
She has worked both in management and as an educator for school nutrition services in Watertown and Boston Public Schools. She spent time as the director of nutrition for the prestigious Canyon Ranch Health Resort in the Berkshires.
She owns Tricia Silverman Wellness, based in Massachusetts. Operating since 2004, her company specializes in high-energy, fun, and informative wellness programs, including combined nutrition and fitness programs, innovative nutrition presentations, health fair services, and individual nutrition/wellness coaching sessions.
She is a professional speaker and shares her insights at employee sites, senior centers, businesses, conferences, and more! Tricia wrote and leads the Active Aging Nutrition Certification for the SCW Fitness company. She teaches Nutrition Entrepreneurship and Healthy Aging: Nutrition Strategies for Optimal Longevity for Northeastern University.
Tricia’s awards:
* Fitness Presenter of the Year, SCW Florida Fitness Conference, 2018
* Fitness Idol, SCW Boston Fitness Conference, 2016
* Chapter Member of the Year, National Speakers Association New England, 2008
* Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year, Massachusetts Dietetic Association, 2008
* Circle Award (for outstanding contribution as newsletter editor), Dietitians in Business and Communications practice group, 2006
Tricia has been published in canfitpro Magazine, Bipolar Magazine and Schizophrenia Digest, and other publications. She has been quoted in blogs and numerous articles. Her website is TriciaSilverman.com, and she can be reached at Tricia@TriciaSilverman.com.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young girl with dreams of becoming a musician must contend with parents who have their own dreams for her life, complex friendships and struggles in school and her journey to discover her place in the world in author Natasha Deen’s novel “In the Key of Nira Ghani”.
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The Synopsis
Nira Ghani has always dreamed of becoming a musician. Her Guyanese parents, however, have big plans for her to become a scientist or doctor. Nira’s grandmother and her best friend, Emily, are the only people who seem to truly understand her desire to establish an identity outside of the one imposed on Nira by her parents. When auditions for jazz band are announced, Nira realizes it’s now or never to convince her parents that she deserves a chance to pursue her passion.
As if fighting with her parents weren’t bad enough, Nira finds herself navigating a new friendship dynamic when her crush, Noah, and notorious mean-girl, McKenzie “Mac,” take a sudden interest in her and Emily, inserting themselves into the fold. So, too, does Nira’s much cooler (and very competitive) cousin Farah. Is she trying to wiggle her way into the new group to get closer to Noah? Is McKenzie trying to steal Emily’s attention away from her? As Farah and Noah grow closer and Emily begins to pull away, Nira’s trusted trumpet “George” remains her constant, offering her an escape from family and school drama.
But it isn’t until Nira takes a step back that she realizes she’s not the only one struggling to find her place in the world. As painful truths about her family are revealed, Nira learns to accept people for who they are and to open herself in ways she never thought possible.
A relatable and timely contemporary, coming-of age story, In the Key of Nira Ghani explores the social and cultural struggles of a teen in an immigrant household.
The Review
What a remarkable and moving coming of age novel. The author has expertly crafted a narrative that blends the hardships and struggles many young adults face growing up while also incorporating the added element of being in an immigrant household, showcasing the added pressures of having parents with a determined path for their future.
Character growth is the shining star of this narrative. The author’s ability to create realistic, memorable, and relatable characters is truly incredible. The relationships between Nira and the supporting cast are enough to get the reader invested, but the emotional core of this story is between Nira and her grandmother, two kindred spirits who must navigate the journey of living out one’s dreams. Nira’s evolution as a character is fascinating to see unfold and is reflective of the true nature of a coming of age novel like this one.
The Verdict
Beautiful, emotional, and well-written, author Natasha Deen’s “In the Key of Nira Ghani” is a must-read YA, coming of age novel. The story is lengthy yet engaging, keeping the reader invested wholly and completely. The shocking conclusion to the story and the journey of Nira makes this novel a one of a kind read, so if you haven’t yet been sure to grab your copy of this amazing book today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Natasha Deen’s family moved from Guyana, South America to Canada to escape the country’s political & racial violence. She loved growing up in a country of snow & flannel, but often felt out of place. Thank goodness for books that showed her being different could also mean being awesome. Natasha lives in Edmonton, Alberta with her family where she spends A LOT of time arguing with her cats and dogs about who’s the boss of the house. Visit her at www.natashadeen.com.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Lewena Bayer takes readers on a journey of discovery to analyze how civility and engagement in a workplace environment can drive business performances by 30% in the book “The 30% Solution”.
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The Synopsis
The 30% Solution – How Civility at Work Increases Retention, Engagement and Profitability, provides essential information, facts, insights from the field, and practical tips related to the business of civility. The book represents a ready-to-use tool kit with practical applications for: Business consultants Performance and productivity analysts Workplace trainers Social and communication training facilitators Customer service experts Business owners, managers, supervisors, and individuals who want to build a better workplace.
The Review
This was a very well researched and developed non-fiction read. The author doesn’t cut any corners as they explore the nature of civility, how it has been missing within the workplace for years now, and how leaders can gain the tools necessary to not only identity uncivil behavior within their businesses but how to create a more civil environment overall.
As several businesses and leaders can attest, it is not always affordable to hire an outside consultant for this kind of situation, so this book presents a clear to understand and well-written account of how leaders can address this problem personally. The author uses hard, well-looked data and figures to explore this issue. The author also writes in a way that the average reader but especially business leaders will be able to understand clearly and precisely.
The Verdict
A smart, incredibly written, and evenly paced non-fiction read, author Lewena Bayer’s “The 30% Solution” is a must-read book for anyone within a business environment hoping to create a more civil workplace. Not only does the author delve deeply into how civility has been absent in the workplace and the hard figures to support this, but how civility can be defined and how utilizing this simple yet complex behavior in the workplace can drastically increase productivity. It’s a powerful read and a heavily fact-supported journey for the reader and author both, so be sure to grab your copies of this book today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Lew believes that Civility is its own reward . She suggests that In choosing civility, people find their best self, and in doing so, they experience the grace, courage, generosity, humanity and the humility that civility engenders. For 17 years Lew Bayer has been internationally recognized as North America s leading expert on Civility at WorkTM with focus on social intelligence and culturally-competent communication. She is CEO of multinational civility training group Civility Experts Worldwide, President of the International Civility Trainers Consortium, Executive Director of The Center for Cultural Competence, and Founder of the In Good Company Etiquette Academy Franchise Group. With the release of her new book slated for late 2015, Lew will be a 9-time published author. She is on the board for the National Civility Center, a proud Mentor for The Etiquette House, a member of the Advisory Board for A Civil Tongue, a national magazine columnist, and a frequent expert commentary contributor to over 60 online, print, and television publications. Lew is a distance faculty member at Georgetown University Center for Cultural Competence, has trained for the American Management Center in New York and is a long-term facilitator at the Canadian Management Center in Toronto Canada. Lew is a Master trainer for the Canadian School of Service, and a certified Culture Coach who also holds credentials in Intercultural Communications, Essential Skills, and Occupational Language Assessment. Lew is a 6-time nominee for the RBC Canadian Woman Entrepreneur of the year. She was previously awarded Manitoba Woman Entrepreneur in International Business and she was the first Canadian to receive the prestigious AICI International Civility Star Award.
