I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Rich Plumery shares a new take on leadership development in the book “Palms Up Leadership: Developing Our Future Leaders.”
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The Synopsis
Palms Up Leadership: Developing Future Leaders is not just another business book—it’s a transformative leadership manifesto designed for today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape.
In this compelling work, Rich Plumery draws from a wealth of experience shaped by real-world adversity, elite performance environments, and high-stakes leadership roles. At its core are the Palms Up tenets—Enable, Engage, and Embrace—a simple yet powerful framework that empowers leaders to navigate complex challenges with authenticity and purpose.
Plumery masterfully integrates principles from servant leadership, project management, sports psychology, elite military team-building, and entrepreneurship to offer a fresh, actionable approach to leadership development. Whether you’re a C-suite executive, a team leader, or an emerging talent, this book equips you with practical strategies to:
Cultivate a thriving and resilient workplace culture
Empower others through clarity, trust, and collaboration
Address pressing challenges like wisdom loss, remote work, and AI disruptions
Lead with integrity, purpose, and impact
If you’re ready to lead boldly, build better teams, and shape the next generation of leaders—Palms Up Leadership is your essential guide.
The Review
This was a truly insightful and compelling nonfiction book. The author wrote in a way that felt honest and personal while also conveying essential lessons along the way. The impact the author’s late brother had early on in his career, as well as the foundational work that went into his businesses, made the experiences that were put down on the page that much more impactful and meaningful. These lessons included things like making the minimum decision necessary to keep things moving, which was paired with a personal interaction with someone who caused him to rethink how reactive actions can have adverse consequences if not thought through carefully.
The theme and foundation for both this book and the method of Palms Up leadership that stood out for this reader was the concept of servant leadership. The concept was new to me, but it was so inspiring. The idea of selfless leadership is so unheard of by so many companies these days. Yet, the concept is beneficial both morally and monetarily, allowing employees to feel wanted and appreciated and motivating them to contribute more to the company. Leadership is meant to work with and serve the community, including the one within a business, and the author’s expertise and strategies really do a great job of aligning with that.
The Verdict
Memorable, insightful, and engaging, author Rich Plumery’s “Palms Up Leadership” is a must-read nonfiction business and leadership book. The fast pacing of the book, the action-driven steps the author lays out to help develop this unique brand of leadership, and the personal nature of the author’s experiences will keep readers invested and connected to the author and the journey this book takes them on. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Rich is a published author, thought leader, and international speaker who presents on various topics, including business recovery, performance management, and his Palm’s Up LeadershipTM brand of servant leadership. Rich has been a founder, investor, and operator in several successful businesses, including one of the first voice-controlled computers, a tactical supply company supporting elite military units (with partners who were some of the plankowners of SEAL Team Six and Red Cell). He also owned and operated a sports performance coaching business that served hundreds of professional athletes across the NFL, NHL, MLB, and MLS. He applied what he had learned from his expert coaches and other world-class specialists, such as Greg Roskopf, the man who retooled Bryson DeChambeau, to develop elite corporate coaching skills.
Being an obsessed problem solver, Rich is passionate about developing a new generation of leaders to help us improve our corporate cultures. At this point in our history, we are dealing with many new dynamics, such as pandemics forcing remote work environments, global work sharing, emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, and an aging workforce, which is continually draining our wisdom bank and jeopardizing quality in many of our key industries, including manufacturing, engineering, construction and healthcare. Rich presents his solutions to these challenges, based on his unique experiences in the corporate and entrepreneurial worlds.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Cory McCray shares the untapped potential that can be found when taking on apprenticeships in the book “The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life.”
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The Synopsis
“I realized that learning a trade was more than just mastering a skill—it was about gaining control over my future.”
How an Apprenticeship Saved My Life tells the inspiring story of one man’s journey from Baltimore’s tough streets to a life of purpose, stability, and impact.
Cory McCray was on a path many young men know all too well—one shaped by struggle and limited opportunity. But when a single decision led him into an apprenticeship program, everything changed. Through hands-on training, grit, and an unshakable commitment to growth, he found a way to rewrite his future.
In this candid memoir, McCray shares the highs and lows of his journey, illustrating the transformative power of skilled labor and mentorship. Individuals will discover how his experiences as an apprentice shaped not just his career but his life, providing him with the foundation to become a Maryland State Senator dedicated to empowering his community. Alongside these personal stories, How an Apprenticeship Saved My Life delves into the lasting impact apprenticeships can have, particularly for those who might be overlooked by traditional educational paths.
For anyone who believes in the power of second chances and the untapped potential within every community, How an Apprenticeship Saved My Life is a powerful reminder that sometimes the right opportunity can change everything. Dive into this transformative story and explore how one apprenticeship not only saved a life but sparked a movement.
The Review
The first thing that stood out to me was how genuine and honest the author was in expressing the events of his life that led him to the path he found himself on. The way the author delved into the hardships and struggles of his youth, and both the impact on his community and the lack of available resources, and the social pressures many young men in his community were presented with, could be felt in the author’s writing with an emotional depth that readers could feel.
The balance of nonfiction narrative as the author expands on his life and journey, with the lessons and education he imparts to young readers, is astounding. The straightforward candor of the author’s voice in the writing style was superb and drove the lessons forward with ease. The idea and inspiration this book inspires in young people to embrace change and the unknown and to see for themselves the future they deserve will keep readers inspired and invested as the book progresses.
The Verdict
Insightful, compelling, and engaging, author Cory McCray’s “The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life” is a must-read nonfiction book. The author did a great job of helping young people through the process of mentorship and becoming apprentices in trades, from working with difficult people to the interview process and so much more, and this is one of those books readers can return to time and time again for guidance and inspiration. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Cory McCray is a journeyman electrician, father of four, and public servant who proudly represents East and Northeast Baltimore in the Maryland State Senate. As the only member of the Maryland General Assembly to have completed a registered apprenticeship, he brings an unwavering commitment to expanding access, uplifting working families, and removing barriers to opportunity.
Raised in Baltimore City, Cory’s life was transformed through an apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 24. That experience not only gave him a career, but a calling—and led him to invest in real estate as a tool for stabilizing neighborhoods, win elected office, and pass over 100 pieces of legislation aimed at equity and economic mobility.
His debut book, The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life, is a blueprint for those navigating the “earn-while-you-learn” path and a call to action for educators, policymakers, and mentors to see the potential in every young person.
When he’s not in Annapolis or working in the community, you can find Cory cheering on his daughters at track meets / tennis matches or walking his sons into basketball practice—deeply grounded in family, faith, and the future of Baltimore.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A podcaster trying to learn more about her brother’s disappearance must save his best friend when the kidnapper challenges her in author Hannah Mary McKinnon’s “A Killer Motive.”
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The Synopsis
In this thriller for fans of Ashley Elston and Jeneva Rose, a manipulative kidnapper gives a true crime podcaster one week to locate her brother’s best friend. If she succeeds, she’ll learn the truth about her brother’s disappearance six years ago, but if she fails, his friend will die.
You never know who’s listening.
To Stella Dixon, sneaking her teenage brother out of their parents’ house for a beach party was harmless fun—until Max disappeared without a trace.
Six years later, Stella’s family is still broken, and she can’t let go of her guilt. The only thing that keeps her going is helping other families find closure through A Killer Motive, her true crime podcast.
In a bid to find new sponsors and keep making episodes, Stella goes on a local radio show. But when she says on air that if she had just one clue, she’d find Max and bring whoever hurt him to justice, someone takes it as a challenge.
A mysterious invitation to play a game arrives, with the promise that if Stella wins, she’ll get information about what happened to Max. Stella thinks it’s a sick joke…until Max’s best friend vanishes. And she’s given new instructions: tell nobody or people will die.
Desperate and unable to trust anyone, Stella agrees. But beating a twisted, invisible enemy seems impossible when they make all the rules…
The Review
This was one of the most compelling thrillers I’ve read this year so far. The intrigue and chilling cat-and-mouse game between the protagonist Stella and the mysterious antagonist toying with her will stay with readers long after the book ends. The author did a fantastic job of creating characters that felt real and tangible, allowing readers to see themselves in many of these characters and their actions. The determination and steel with which the author writes Stella really stood out, especially when showcasing the lengths Stella would go to to find her brother, touching on both the guilt of losing him and the need to see justice done.
The richly developed themes of this novel and the harrowing atmosphere were what really sold this story. The exploration of the true crime podcast genre and the business side of it also highlighted people’s growing need for answers, the truth, and the power people have to search for answers they themselves have been waiting for. The pacing was really impressive as well, with the author peeling back layer after layer of this mystery and each new revelation bringing a shocking new suspect that readers will be floored by.
The Verdict
A thrilling, twisted, and entertaining new crime thriller and mystery, author Hannah Mary McKinnon’s “A Killer’s Motive” is a must-read novel and a 2025 Best of contender for my site! The twists and turns this story takes, the shocking final chapters that shed new light on this case, and the powerful commentary these revelations make will be something readers discuss for a long time to come. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Internationally bestselling author Hannah Mary McKinnon was born in the UK, grew up in Switzerland and moved to Canada in 2010. Her eight suspense novels include THE REVENGE LIST, ONLY ONE SURVIVES, and A KILLER MOTIVE, and her work has been optioned for the screen. She also writes holiday romantic comedies as Holly Cassidy. Hannah Mary lives near Toronto, Canada with her husband and three sons. You’ll find her on socials as @hannahmarymckinnon, and please visit http://www.hannahmarymckinnon.com for more.
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And Now Enjoy this Excerpt from “A Killer Motive”
Chapter 1
Stella
My pulse thudded in my neck like Morse code. A steady tap-tap loosely translating as come on. Shoving my hands under my thighs, I slid farther down the passenger seat and peered over the dashboard toward the darkened house at the end of the street.
For ten minutes I’d willed the motion-activated porch lights to stay off. Hoped the heavy living room drapes with the silver ring print I’d been mesmerized by as a kid would remain closed, allowing us to stay undetected.
Tap-tap.
Already 9:47 p.m. Where was he?
The cloudless Maine sky had long transitioned from bright blue to bubble gum pink before enveloping our corner of the East Coast in a blanket of rich black velvet. A cool breeze drifted through the open car window, providing a welcome break from the searing early August temperatures.
Rain was on its way for Portland and beyond tomorrow, which would be a welcome relief. For now, the sound of buzzing cicadas filled the Friday night air while this summer’s hottest anthem played on a radio somewhere in the distance.
The classic smell of freshly cut grass invaded my nostrils, conjuring memories of picnics in the park, running through sprinklers, and hands sticky from melting strawberry popsicles. Like those lazy days years ago, tonight would be perfect. All I needed was for my brother to show up.
“Do you think he changed his mind, Stella?” Jeff said, his voice a gentle rumble.
Glancing at my boyfriend, I took in his dark blond hair, straight nose, and the sculpted stubble accentuating a set of epic cheekbones. I let my gaze sweep across his toned biceps and chest. Underneath the faded-but-somehow-still-fitted Alanis Morissette T-shirt was a set of rock-hard abs I couldn’t wait to run my hands over again. Part of me almost wanted Max not to show up so we could go straight home.
I reached for Jeff’s hand and gave it a squeeze. “No, he’s too excited for the party. I bet he’s waiting for Mom and Dad to fall asleep in front of the TV.”
Jeff laughed. “Way to make them sound ancient.”
My parents were fifty-one. I was about to reply that compared to Jeff’s twenty-four years and my twenty-two, that was ancient, but the sight of Max emerging between a pair of fir trees stopped me. With a mischievous grin on his face, he speed-walked toward us, his hands tucked into the pockets of a Simpsons hoodie.
I smiled at my baby brother. Baby was slightly unfair considering his eighteenth birthday was under two weeks away, but I’d forever tease him about being four years younger. Max didn’t mind. He knew that from the moment I first saw him in the hospital, swaddled in a bunny-print blanket, his plump cheeks rosy red, I vowed I’d be the best big sister in the world.
Tonight, my solemn promise meant busting his grounded ass out of his minimum-security prison, aka our parents’ house, so he could join Jeff and me at what would be the coolest party of the weekend. Lighthouse Beach was a twenty-five-minute drive from Deering, the Portland neighborhood where Max and I had grown up, and now I couldn’t wait to get going.
Max slid into the back seat of Jeff’s old red pickup truck. I turned around, laughing at my brother’s beaming face and the perpetual impish twinkle in his green eyes, which looked so much like mine.
“We were about to leave,” I deadpanned. “Thought you’d chickened out.”
Max snorted. “As if.”
“Are we picking up Kenji?”
“He’s at his girlfriend’s so he’ll meet us at the beach,” Max said, before jokingly adding, “He’d better, considering he’s taking off next week. Some best friend he is, leaving me behind.”
“Hey,” I shot back with mock indignation. “I thought I was your best friend.”
“Are you two sure about this aiding and abetting?” Jeff cut in before Max could throw a good-natured sibling zinger my way. “Your mom will go ballistic if she finds out.”
Max shrugged. “I don’t care. She’s way overprotective.”
“You know her reasons,” Jeff said.
We all did. Mom’s older brother died when she was nine and he was seventeen. It was terrible how some asshole truck driver had run over our uncle, killing him instantly. Still, Max’s rebellion tonight was fueled by the fact Mom had banned him from going to California with Kenji, saying it was too far away, and Max was too young. They’d had a massive argument about it, which led to my brother being grounded for the weekend, hence tonight’s great escape.
“I told them I was heading to bed,” Max said. “They never check, but I stacked my pillows under the duvet just in case. Nobody will notice.”
“If they do, I’ll take the full blame.” I patted Jeff’s hand. “Max, we’ll drive you home. No after-parties with Kenji, got it? What Mom and Dad don’t know can’t hurt them.”
“Sir, yes, sir.” Max gave me a salute. “Anyway, I’ll need some sleep. I’m volunteering at the clinic tomorrow. Woolly had a mass removed and I want to be there for him.”
“Woolly?” Jeff said. “Dog or sheep?”
My brother grinned. “Giant Angora rabbit. He’s awesome.”
“You’re such a softie,” I said before letting out a whoop. “All right, let’s go. Lighthouse Beach, here we come.”
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
An investigator must discover the hidden secrets of a missing crime writer in author Ragnar Jonasson’s “The Mysterious Case of the Missing Crime Writer.”
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The Synopsis
The next thrilling golden-age-style mystery from #1 Icelandic bestseller Ragnar Jónasson, author of Death at the Sanatorium and Reykjavík.
One winter evening, bestselling crime author Elín S. Jónsdóttir goes missing.
There are no clues to her disappearance and it is up to young detective Helgi to crack the case before its leaked to the press.
As Helgi interviews the people closest to her—a publisher, an accountant, a retired judge—he realizes that Elín’s life wasn’t what it seemed. In fact, her past is even stranger than the fiction she wrote.
As the case of the missing crime writer becomes more mysterious by the hour, Helgi must uncover the secrets of the writer’s very unexpected life.
The Review
This was a fascinating and compelling mystery read. The author did an incredible job of balancing the unique culture and atmosphere of Iceland with the richly developed narrative surrounding this case. The tension that could be felt throughout this novel was layered perfectly into each chapter, and the way the author can traverse across multiple timelines to give not only numerous perspectives but also slowly unravel each clue in the case was mesmerizing.
The haunting revelations that come to light and the compelling character dynamics were what made this novel so perfect. The protagonist was in his element exploring a case set in the literary world. Yet, the way the narrative peeled back the lives of the missing writer and those surrounding her, and the infusion of tension with his current girlfriend and his ex and their troubled past, make this novel so gripping.
The Verdict
A unique, powerful, and entertaining voice in the crime thriller genre, author Ragnar Jonasson’s “The Mysterious Case of the Missing Crime Writer” is a must-read mystery and thriller. The twists and turns that are methodically unveiled, along with the shocking twist of a final chapter that will leave readers reeling, all make this a memorable and excellent thriller for the upcoming fall season. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Ragnar Jónasson was born in Reykjavík, Iceland, where he works as a writer and a lawyer and teaches copyright law at Reykjavík University. He has previously worked on radio and television, including as a TV news reporter for the Icelandic National Broadcasting Service, and, from the age of seventeen, has translated fourteen of Agatha Christie’s novels. He is an international Number One bestseller.
The Darkness is the first novel in his Hidden Iceland series, to be followed by The Island and The Mist.
I am thrilled to be able to present you with an excerpt from the upcoming novel “THE WITCH’S APPRENTICE AND OTHER STORIES” by author Ekta R. Garg, as part of the author’s book tour with Women on Writing Blog Tours. I hope you will enjoy.
Question
When the tornado took Dorothy’s house to Oz, it landed on the Wicked Witch of the East and killed the witch instantly.
What was the witch doing in the road in the first place?
The Witch’s Apprentice
Do you remember the story about the house that fell on the Wicked Witch of the East? The one where the girl who came out of the house took the witch’s lovely silver shoes and went on her adventures down the road of yellow bricks? Well, enough time has passed that I believe I can confess.
It’s my fault the house fell on the witch in the first place.
She was there, in the middle of the road, because we were arguing. And we were arguing because I was asking—no, that’s not right. I was demanding to be freed from the Spell of Inhibition so I could complete my apprenticeship. The witch was the ruler of Munchkinland and the head of the High Council of Witches. Before my apprenticeship started, I had chosen her to be my mentor.
She was also my cousin.
We had been arguing about the completion of my apprenticeship, which required an act of altruism assigned to me by the High Council. Once I completed the task and the Council deemed it pure, proving I would only use my magic for good, the High Witches would lift the Spell of Inhibition that prevented the free use of magic for everything. After three years of training, I still hadn’t gotten used to the physical sensation of the spell; it made my skin itch in a way that made me want to shed it so I could emerge as a full-fledged witch.
For weeks, however, the High Council had ignored my repeated requests for a task. Anyone I asked referred me to someone else, and after the fourth or fifth request they all told me to speak to Cousin. When I got my chance on that day, in the middle of the road, I told Cousin in a firm voice that the time had come. I had proven myself and knew I was ready to practice magic as she did.
She began laughing in that cruel, high voice she had, and I knew. Even though the sound crushed my heart, in that moment I knew she had no intention of helping me. I thrust out my wand, ready to show her what I’d learned, fighting against the fiery sensation burning across my hand and wrist as the Spell of Inhibition warned against doing magic. In that moment, I heard a rushing sound, looked up, and saw the house. I jumped out of the way just before it…well, you know.
I assumed Cousin had also escaped, but then I looked back and saw her feet sticking out from under the house. My heart started fluttering faster than I could breathe. I scrambled to stand then ran back toward the tavern at the edge of the village where we had met to talk. A few munchkins walking past the tavern stared at me with curious looks, but I bypassed them completely, dove behind the squat building, and cast a spell on myself to transport me back to my cottage.
But I’m getting ahead of myself. In order to understand my tale, I’ll have to go back to the beginning so you’ll know properly how I ended up where I am now. So you’ll understand why running left me wracked by guilt…but also cradled by relief.
Ekta Garg’s
WOW! WOMEN ON WRITING TOUR
OF
The Witch’s Apprentice and Other Stories
Tour Begins August 25
Book Summary
Have you ever wondered why Jack and Jill needed that pail of water in the first place? Or how Sleeping Beauty managed to prick her finger despite a royal order to destroy every spindle in the kingdom?
Fairy tales and nursery rhymes have given us some of the most iconic characters and images in storytelling; think Cinderella’s glass slipper or Jack’s oversized beanstalk. But what about the in-between moments? The ones that never made it to the page?
In this enchanting micro-collection of short stories, award-winning author Ekta R. Garg explores the untold scenes between the lines of some of our most loved tales. Find out what the Wicked Witch of the East was doing in the road before Dorothy’s house fell on her. Learn where Goldilocks came from. Meet the conmen who convinced the emperor he had new clothes and more.
Rediscover the wit, heart, and magic of the classics, and see them as you’ve never seen them before in The Witch’s Apprentice and Other Stories.
A Reviewer, Editor, Author, and Dreamer of stories and books, Ekta has worked in niche publishing since 2005—she’s written and edited about everything from healthcare to home improvement to Hindi films! Ekta judges writing contests, hosts writing workshops, and podcasts about great books and how to write them. She’s currently the Content Coordinator of Neighbors of SW Champaign, a hyper-local magazine focusing on and lifting up the Champaign, Illinois, community. Ekta’s award-winning holiday novella, The Truth About Elves, and her award-winning fairy tale for grown-ups, In the Heart of the Linden Wood, are available from Atmosphere Press.
Join us as we celebrate the launch of The Witch’s Apprentice and Other Stories by Ekta Garg. Read an interview with the author and enter for a chance to win a copy of the book.
Visit Julie’s blog again for a guest post by author Ekta Garg on how to choose the theme of your book…or let it choose you. You can also read her review of The Witch’s Apprentice and Other Stories.
Visit Katherine’s blog for her review of The Witch’s Apprentice and Other Stories by Ekta Garg. You can also check out her response to our tour-themed prompt on what she hasn’t seen in a fairy tale that we wish we saw more of.
An investigator and an artist must work together after discovering a dangerous conspiracy in author Elizabeth Aragon’s “Veil of Deception.”
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The Synopsis
In a world where secrets can kill and nothing is what it seems, two lives become intertwined in a deadly game of betrayal, deception, and forbidden love.
Detective Alex Hunter never asked for the truth to come crashing into his life. A quiet, brooding investigator with a personal vendetta against corruption, Alex’s world is turned upside down when he’s pulled into a twisted case involving the murder of billionaire philanthropist Victor Belle and the stolen Ruby of Eternity—an artifact worth more than a man’s life. But what starts as a simple investigation soon unravels into something much darker. The deeper Alex digs, the more he realizes that this case will not only challenge his skills but his very heart.
“Dammit, Alex. Move!”
Elena Mercer, a struggling artist with her own hidden past, is thrown into the abyss when she stumbles upon a hidden message in a painting she bought at an estate sale. A cryptic poem linked to the stolen Ruby sends her on a dangerous path, one that will intertwine with Alex’s as they uncover a sinister conspiracy. Elena’s thirst for justice leads her straight into the arms of the very detective investigating the case. But their growing attraction isn’t without consequences, especially when their lives are put at risk.
“The man crumples to the floor in eerie silence, his eyes wide, staring blankly at nothing as the life drains out of him.”
As the investigation deepens, Alex and Elena must navigate through lies, betrayal, and unexpected alliances, all while trying to stay one step ahead of the Syndicate—a shadowy organization willing to destroy anyone who dares to expose its secrets. But as danger closes in, Alex and Elena find themselves drawn to each other in a way neither expected. Love, however, is a luxury they can’t afford in a world built on lies.
In a thrilling race against time, they must confront not only the killers who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets hidden but their own emotions as they face the truth about the twisted world they’ve become part of.
“I never knew how much I needed this—how much I needed him—until I had it. Until we had each other.”
Will Alex and Elena survive the deadly deception, or will the Syndicate’s grip on the world pull them into its dark underworld forever? In Veil of Deception, betrayal runs deeper than blood, and the true enemy is often the one closest to you.
The Review
This was a fast-paced and compelling read. The author did an incredible job of infusing intrigue and mystery into the narrative right from the start. The balance of action, suspense, and narrative twists was really well done, allowing the reader to become ingrained in the story with ease. The imagery in the author’s writing style stood out, and often I felt as if I could easily have been watching a Netflix miniseries with how cinematic the setting and imagery became in the novel.
The novel itself was character-driven, and the addition of heated romance greatly enhanced its appeal. The drive and compassion, yet fierce way both protagonists fought for justice and the truth was admirable. Yet, it was the way they connected and the instant draw that they had for one another that fueled the story and kept readers invested in these characters from the start.
The Verdict
Memorable, thrilling, and entertaining, author Elizabeth Aragon’s “Veil of Deception” is a must-read romantic thriller. The twists and turns in the story, the fiery draw of the characters, and the fast pace of the story not only reminded me of classic noir thrillers but also allowed for room for these characters and the world they inhabit to come back again in the future, something readers will thoroughly enjoy. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Elizabeth was born in the USA and lived with her parents and grandparents. Though her family wasn’t wealthy, they always had enough to eat and a modest home. As Elizabeth grew older, so did her grandparents, and they both passed away when she was 14. She had been especially close to her grandmother and missed her deeply. While helping to sort through her grandparents’ belongings, Elizabeth discovered a box filled with books her grandmother had written but never published. Elizabeth loved reading them and wondered why they had never been shared with the world. To honor her grandmother’s memory, the books were donated to the local university. This experience sparked Elizabeth’s passion for writing and creativity.
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I’ve worked as a technical writer in IT, but honestly, there has always been a whole universe inside my head — thoughts, ideas, contemplations, tricky questions that still have no clear answers, and even problems humanity keeps wrestling with.
As a kid, I tried writing little stories. Sometimes I’d watch a TV series that inspired me so much, I just had to write my own version. But to be honest, I’m not great at writing fictional stories. My imagination is rich, but my plots never quite come together.
What I do have, though, is a very analytical mind. My real talent lies in looking at things from unique angles most people wouldn’t think of and wrapping those ideas in a fresh, non-standard format of storytelling. I also love finding solutions to problems (something I do daily in my analyst job).
That’s why I gravitate toward writing about life-related problems people struggle to solve, as well as big, hard-to-answer questions. The topics I choose are sometimes spicy, sometimes controversial, often emotional, and yes — sometimes they invite judgment or even hate from others. But I’m learning not to be afraid to speak up. And in fact, that’s what my first book (“The Shadow of Wealth”) is about.
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2) What inspired you to write your book?
I wrote Shadow of Wealth by combining Jungian shadow work with millionaire mindset principles, because money mindset is one of those evergreen topics. Everyone needs money, and there should be no shame in admitting it.
But here’s the thing: I always hated most books in this genre. Too many of them talk about “magical ways to step into abundance,” with the core message being, “Just believe, and it will happen!”
The problem is, “Believe” isn’t a command you can simply follow. And it’s incredibly hard to believe you can be wealthy when your reality is screaming the opposite.
Sure, people get inspired by the idea of manifesting wealth through positive thinking. But years pass, and most of them stay exactly where they started. The only thing that changes is that their thoughts aren’t as positive anymore, and their faith in “abundance” is fading.
I analyzed ALL the bestseller books about money mindset and noticed that none of them were using shadow work as a tool to shift mindset and improve finances. I’ve personally used shadow work to transform many areas of my life — especially my financial situation — and the results are incredible if you approach it with curiosity and the courage to face what you’re not ready to admit about yourself.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
The main message I want readers to understand is this: no matter how hard you believe, manifest, or visualize, you won’t move into action unless you remove the inner resistance holding you back. Shadow work is one of the most effective ways to do this.
Inner resistance is like having your hands tied. You can’t untangle it with vision boards or positive affirmations, because it’s built from old traumas, fears, and painful emotions most of us don’t even realize we carry.
Another takeaway I want for readers is clarity on how to actually move forward with building wealth. In my book, the strict Shadow character doesn’t just help uncover emotions and insights — it also pushes readers to think about their next steps. Along the way, I’ve included practical guidance based on millionaire wisdom I’ve studied from many sources.
So instead of just saying, “Now you know you have a fear of failure, go deal with it,” the book frames it more like: “Here’s what millionaires do to succeed. Here’s what’s stopping you from doing the same. And here’s what you can actually do to change that and succeed too.”
By the end, the big question — “What do I actually need to do to build wealth right now?” — becomes a lot clearer.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
It comes down to my willingness to solve problems for others in a way only I can — by offering perspectives and approaches that not many people have tried. I love suggesting alternative points of view that can shift the way someone thinks about their struggles.
5) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
Oh, I wish someone had asked me that earlier!
You see, while working in IT, I never really had time to grow my social media presence. My days were filled with talking to customers, writing documentation, traveling for business trips, and helping build products.
Even now, I’m still engaged in those activities. But recently, I finally started an Instagram account: @shadowwork_money. Right now, it’s centered around my book, but eventually, I plan to branch out and share more personalized content on a variety of topics. I have so many ideas, and I can’t wait to bring them to life. It’s going to be an interesting journey.
6) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
First, I’d say: enjoy the creative writing process. There’s nothing like watching something truly unique come to life from your imagination.
Second… study marketing. Being creative is one thing, but selling your work is a whole different story. Honestly, I was shocked at how many so-called marketers out there are actually scammers, ready to empty your pockets with promises of hundreds or thousands of sales. My painful experience cost me almost $6,000 (a story I’ll share in detail soon), and it almost made me want to give up on writing altogether.
Because of that, marketing has become both my obsession and my playground. My advice: beware of fake promises, because scammers are very convincing these days.
Right now, I’m actually writing a series of LinkedIn articles about marketing techniques that are genuinely useful for authors who want to sell more books. If you’re looking for knowledge or support, come join me there!
7) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
Oh my, absolutely! New books are definitely on the horizon.
I already have a few topics waiting for their turn: infidelity, parenthood, the things we believe in, and even the genetic lottery. Each of these requires deep research before I start writing, but my notebooks are already bursting with ideas.
I truly hope to meet you again on the pages of my future books. And more than anything, I hope my stories don’t just resonate with you — I hope they spark useful revelations, provoke deep thoughts, and inspire lasting positive change in your life.
By day, I work in IT, but beyond my job, I have a deep passion for Jungian psychology and writing. I love expressing my thoughts and sharing powerful insights – and nothing lights me up more than hearing how those ideas have helped others grow or shift something in their lives.
I’m especially interested in the topic of wealth. And I’ll be honest – I feel no shame about it. Wanting more, desiring abundance, and striving to live your best life is a good thing. (Even if many of us were taught to feel guilty about it.)
At one point in my journey, I realized I was on a meaningful path toward building real wealth. That’s when I felt I had something valuable to share—something honest and hard-earned about how wealth is actually created.
But just to be clear: it hasn’t come from any magic trick or overnight success. It’s been the old-fashioned way – through years of working, creating, investing, and selling. It’s taken over 15 years, and the journey is still unfolding.
And honestly?
I believe it could have happened much faster if I had met my Shadow earlier.
Once I experienced the power of shadow work firsthand, I couldn’t keep it to myself. My creative side wouldn’t let me. I felt this undeniable urge to share what I had learned—in my own way, in my own voice.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Three women in a family must overcome secrets and heartbreak to heal old wounds and come together in author RaeAnne Thayne’s “The Sea Glass Cottage”, the second book in the Cape Sanctuary Series.
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The Synopsis
The life Olivia Harper always dreamed of isn’t so dreamy these days. The 16-hour work days are unfulfilling and so are things with her on-again, off-again boyfriend. But when she hears that her estranged mother, Juliet, has been seriously injured, Liv has no choice but to pack up her life and head home to beautiful Cape Sanctuary on the Northern California coast.
It’s just for a few months—that’s what Liv keeps telling herself. But the closer she gets to Cape Sanctuary, the painful memories start flooding back: Natalie, her vibrant, passionate older sister who downward-spiraled into addiction. The fights with her mother who enabled her sister at every turn. The overdose that took Natalie, leaving her now-teenaged daughter, Caitlin, an orphan.
As Liv tries to balance her own needs with those of her injured mother and an obstinate, resentful fifteen-year-old, it becomes clear that all three Harper women have been keeping heartbreaking secrets from one another. And as those secrets are revealed, Liv, Juliet, and Caitlin will see that it’s never too late—or too early—to heal family wounds and find forgiveness.
The Review
This was such a powerful and moving contemporary women’s fiction meets romance novel. The raw emotional draw of this narrative as the book explores the shared trauma that connects the cast of characters in this narrative, especially the three generations of women in this family, kept the reader invested in the development of this narrative, and the rich setting of Cape Sanctuary was well represented in the imagery of the author’s writing and became a character in their own right.
The rich character development was really what brought the whole narrative together. The trauma that each of these women were struggling with, from losses in their lives to both tragedy and addiction, to medical diagnosis and discovering shocking revelations regarding their parentage, these women embodied both strong yet vulnerable women who faced their hardships head on and learned to find a way to make room for others in their lives in the process.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author RaeAnne Thayne’s “The Sea Glass Cottage” is a must-read contemporary romance meets women’s fiction. The twists and turns in the story, the emotional connection of the characters, and the inspiring final chapters made this a remarkable story 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
#1 Publishers Weekly, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne finds inspiration in the beautiful northern Utah mountains where she lives with her family. Her books have won numerous honors, including seven RITA Award nominations from Romance Writers of America and a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews magazine. RaeAnne loves to hear from readers and can be reached through her website at www.raeannethayne.com.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A couple seeks revenge as a sleazy real-estate investor rolls into the small community of Serenity Acres in author Crystal Quast’s “Shafted”, the second book in the Serenity Acres series.
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The Synopsis
Fraud. A catfish. And murder on the menu. Welcome to the neighborhood.
Serenity Acres looks picture-perfect, but the secrets and the bodies are stacking up. A slick real estate investor rolls into town with a too-good-to-be-true deal that has the neighbors seeing dollar signs. But one couple isn’t buying in. They’re seeing red…for revenge. In this race to screw each other over, someone’s about to get shafted.
Shafted is book 2 in the Serenity Acres suburban mystery series. Each book can be read as a standalone, so you can dive in anywhere. No prior reading required.
The Review
The author does an incredible job of building on the suspense and drama of the first book while creating a wholly unique story that can be read as a standalone narrative and still pays off plot points from the first novel. The tension and atmospheric nature of each chapter add depth to the secrets and lies that lie beneath the surface of this close-knit community, and the exploration of sex, power, and money as motivations for deadly plots feels both relevant and cinematic in its delivery.
The heart of the novel was what has made this entire series so palpable, which is the character development. While the book featured a significant number of subplots with supporting characters that kept readers invested in the events unfolding in this community, the central focus on Clara and her husband, Evan, made the story all the more compelling to read. The twisted lengths they were willing to go through, especially Clara, made the novel feel visceral and delightfully wicked to get lost in.
The Verdict
Twisted, enthralling, and memorable, author Crystal Quast’s “Shafted” is a must-read suburban crime thriller and a great continuation of this series. The cinematic quality of this narrative felt like a mashup of great shows like Desperate Housewives, Revenge, and Tell Me Lies, while the twists and turns in the story’s final chapters add a bit of suspense that no one will see coming. If you haven’t yet, preorder your copy today or grab a copy of the book on October 15th, 2025!
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.
