Tag: book review

Metaphysical Sherpa: Misunderstood Mystic by Nick Mirisola 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. 

Author Nick Mirisola shares his journey to Eastern Philosophy, Metaphysical religions, and science as he seeks to bridge the gap between the two schools of thought in the book “Metaphysical Sherpa: Misunderstood Mystic”.

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The Synopsis 

Dive into the extraordinary life of Nicholas David Mirisola in Metaphysical Sherpa: Misunderstood Mystic. This anthology unveils Mirisola’s captivating journey through an unpublished condensed autobiography complemented by biographical entries from friends, family, and professionals. Explore his diverse talents through a collection of thought-provoking lyrics, captivating artwork, and forty pages of insightful and humorous memes. This book received four 5 Star editorial reviews from Readers’ Favorite, and was ranked #1 in Zen Buddhism, #1 in Shamanism, #2 in Mysticism, #3 in Unitarian Universalism, #3 in New Age Mysticism, #4 in Earth Based Religions, and #5 in Buddhism on Kindle’s “Hot New Releases” lists at one point.

Mirisola, a modern renaissance man, challenges Western pop psychiatry’s understanding of him, offering a unique perspective on religion and science. In this anthology, he shares a philosophy of science paper first published in a peer reviewed journal, showcasing his profound insights. As a uniting voice for religion and science, Mirisola celebrates diversity, pluralism, and individuality, weaving a narrative that resonates with seekers of wisdom and understanding. Join this misunderstood mystic on a journey that transcends boundaries and bridges the gap between the spiritual and the scientific.

Nick is a lay Zen monk, DIY shaman, ordained Dudeist priest, and professional musician, visual artist, and philosopher. His story describes a spiritual awakening and the journey of his soul over the course of his life that is inspirational and profound. His storytelling is also educational, with science backing a diverse tapestry of paranormal phenomena. He speaks of mental health struggles which many people can relate to and identify with, and his methods of dealing with struggles are informative and luminary. He is a visionary with strong ideals, and a down to Earth philosophical perspective that enables him to put his ideals into practical applications. He is also backed up by a veteran friend’s intimate knowledge of declassified military and government secrets, as well as a neighbor’s eyewitness account of a seemingly miraculous event, and a nursing practitioner’s story of a “medical miracle.”

The companion Meditative Animal music album is titled Metaphysical Sherpa: Dirty Fractal Sacrament, and is a 16 song Avant-Garde album with a complementary narrative, and Mirisola’s poetic lyrics, alongside the presence of other talented musicians, not limited to features by Grammy Award nominee G. Love and Killah Priest from the living legends The Wu-Tang Clan. Meditative Animal has a timeless original sound, and a unique indie alternative folk rock style with influences from jazz, blues, funk, soul, reggae, hip hop, world music, and sound healing therapies. The critically acclaimed music has ranked high on multiple international indie music charts, and is produced and published by Nick’s indie record label under Moonlit Creative Works.

The Review

This was such a thought-provoking and engaging read. The profound insight and clarity with which the author speaks keep the reader invested in the overall journey, exploring the path that brings both science and faith into a connective road we can all travel. The exploration of allowing each and every person to live their life the way they want, respecting one another’s beliefs, and seeing the world from their perspective made this book so engaging.

The book also highlights the struggle to follow one’s path, with so many trying to instill their beliefs or scientific path and mindset onto others. The need to question things and explore the universe on one’s terms was brought to life, and how government officials, major corporations, and the evolving mental health system all try to control and change people’s perspectives on spirituality as a whole kept the intrigue and insight alive on the page.

The Verdict

The compelling writing style, mixture of autobiography and biographical writings, and philosophical debates this book creates make it a must-read nonfiction book. The engaging way the author presents his journey to the reader and the mind-blowing experiences that he has had make this a compelling book 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

Nicholas David Mirisola, known as Nick Mirisola, is a lay Zen monk, ordained Dudeist priest, and a multi-talented artist. He refers to himself as “Duddha.” As a singer-songwriter, he performs under the name Meditative Animal, and his music is an eclectic blend of indie alternative folk rock with hints of jazz, blues, funk, soul, hip hop, reggae, and world music.

Mirisola is a versatile musician, playing guitar, hand percussion, harmonica, guitarlele, melodica, singing bowls, bass, keyboards, and Native American flute. His songs are noted for their poetic and thought-provoking lyrics, showcasing his unique musical style.

A professional music producer, visual artist, and published philosopher, Mirisola has earned recognition for his intelligence, with a tested IQ at genius level. His philosophy of science paper, “Points About Points with a Point: Nature of Smallest Scale Universals,” offers groundbreaking insights into some of nature’s deepest mysteries.

Beyond his artistic and philosophical pursuits, Mirisola has a playful side, writing humorous and insightful memes, often quoting himself as “Duddha.” His ability to combine intellectual depth with lightheartedness adds a unique charm to his diverse body of work.

https://meditativeanimal.com

Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a F^ck by Sue Donnellan 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. 

One parent shares the experiences and tricks they learned to help end difficult situations with their child without “fixing” a child’s behavior in the book “Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a F^ck” by Sue Donnellan.

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The Synopsis

Are you tired of yelling, punishing, and reminding, yet experiencing no change in your child’s behavior? 

What if you could learn the transformative mindset that allows parents to get results without “fixing” their child’s bad behavior? 

In Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a F^ck, Sue Donnellan, parent mentor, author, mom of four (including triplets), and entrepreneur shares 20+ years of experience cultivating the effective thought process for successful parenting. She delivers a proven playbook for turning misbehaving kids into happy, respectful, well-adjusted young adults. 

  • End tantrums by learning how to respond to them
  • Eliminate back-talk by knowing how to avoid provoking it
  • Minimize lying with trust-creating strategies
  • Neutralize sibling fights using one simple method
  • Establish curfews and boundaries both you and your child are happy with
  • Increase your ability to prevent bad behavior, before it even starts
  • Directly influence your child’s great decision-making capabilities 
  • Nurture a strengthened relationship so deep it provides a lifetime of your kids wanting to share everything with you

Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a F^ck is the definitive book on parenting. Written as a no-nonsense action plan, this book covers ages 2-20 and all the necessary subjects in between, using humor and wisdom.

The Review

What a compelling and engaging book! The author’s connection with readers early in the book is the perfect way to draw the reader in naturally. The author struck just the right balance between educational and entertaining with this book’s material, not only giving parents guidance on working with their children in a healthy way on behavior but also infusing humor and wit into the writing style itself.

The main draw of this book is the insight into parenting this author brings to the table. The guidance appears simply put, yet holds the complexities that parents often overlook when struggling to find that balance with their children. Not only does the book give details on how to form a working partnership with their child and learn to teach them how to put decision-making skills into practice, but the book also highlights the need for parents to develop mantras and learn to let go of guilt altogether, giving readers a depth and valuable hook to draw parents into the book more and more.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging author Sue Donnellan’s “Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a Fck” is a must-read nonfiction book on parenting that all parents will want to grab for themselves. The reader’s connection to the author herself and the close examination of what drives a child’s behavior and what works to help curb any negative emotions will have readers returning to read this book time and time again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Sue Donnellan is an entrepreneur, wife, mother of four (including surprise triplets), and International #1 Best Selling author. As a one-time reluctant parent and reformed yeller, Sue understands the sheer stress that is parenting! Sue has been advising parents, transforming households, and reducing overwhelm for over 20 years with her results-based, no-nonsense method of raising kids.

Respected in the field of parenting, relationship building, and accountable communication, Sue developed her trademark program while in the trenches. In the last 25 years, Sue has built and run three of her own full-time businesses, supported her military husband as he deployed five times, and managed a family of six.

With wisdom and humor, Sue teaches a transformative mindset that gives parents the skills to get positive shifts in behavior, while creating a relationship of lifelong trust and respect with their kids. She has captured her unique methods in her 1st book, Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a F^ck, where she tells you how she did it, and how you can, too!

In her ‘free’ time, Sue is also a mom to two dogs. She has discovered a cure for hiccups, created a family recipe for sleep dust, loves the ethereal and timeless singer Sade, appreciates great comedy, and is passionate about living healthy.

Ask Mom Parenting

An End to Kings (A King Without a Crown Book Two) by Ryan Schuette Review + Interview

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Interviews, 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 young man must fight to gain his father’s crown and give the kingdom back to the peasants who helped make it while an ancient evil seeks to take advantage of the infighting causing chaos amongst the realm in author Ryan Schuette’s “An End to Kings”, the second book in the A King Without a Crown series.

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The Synopsis

In the highly anticipated conclusion to A Seat for the Rabble, former NPR reporter Ryan Schuette returns to Odma, a richly detailed world not unlike our own. Riven by social injustice, wealth inequality, and ancient magic, the Kingdom of Loran stands on the brink of war . . . and the bastard prince, Jason Warchild, means to save it.

With an army of Cloudlanders at his back, Jason marches to the Kingstrials, where he must kill his rivals—including his zealot uncle, Shaddon—to claim his father’s crown and return peasants to power. But winning this deadly game will take more than martial skill and an army. If he fails to win all three Trials, he’ll need the fractious Worthy Assembly to crown him directly—or he’ll lose the kingdom, along with his head.

As class anger festers, Jason’s allies find themselves embattled. At the capital, Princess Lorana Eddenhold navigates her realm’s troubled politics to stamp out plots against her half-brother, even as she dreads Prieslenne Edenia’s return. In the west, Rathos Robswell risks his life to persuade the Loyal Company’s firebrands to cease their infighting and see the bastard prince—along with the dream of a just realm—through a crucible of swords, dragons, and griffons.

Only supernatural forces seem to see all ends. Accompanied by a sorcerer, Zuran races against time to confront the real evil . . . the one exploiting chaos in a kingless land.

The Review

Instantly, readers can see the chaos and conflict that stems from a monarchy without a clear line of succession, along with political moves and corruption at work, that made fantasy series like George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones so beloved in author Ryan Schuette’s incredible sequel. The world-building continues to expand and grow as the action infuses a sense of adrenaline and wonder into this realm. The author’s intense and heavy atmosphere makes the reader feel connected and engaged with the characters throughout this story.

As with the first book of this series, I loved the rich themes of politics, absolute power corrupts absolutely, and the impact chaos has on a society being infused into the narrative in such a natural way. The way this supernatural evil infuses itself into the fighting and uses it to fuel its own needs speaks to the power behind many political movements today that similarly use chaos. The breathtaking character development kept the reader engaged with the narrative, overwhelming the reader with incredible emotional connections and creating complex and thought-provoking characters.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and compelling author Ryan Schuette’s “An End to Kings” is a must-read epic fantasy novel that will set this summer ablaze. The story’s shocking twists, the harrowing dangers the cast of characters face, and the open ending that leaves readers satisfied yet wanting more from this growing series will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The wealth of world-building the author crafts, including historical events of the realm and the decisive moments showcasing the need for inclusion and representation amongst those in power, make this a fantastic novel 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

Ryan Schuette is the author of A Seat for the Rabbleand its forthcoming sequel, An End to Kings. He’s also authored and illustrated The Art of the Big Lie: Political Cartoons About the Fight for America’s Souland penned a romance novel under his pseudonym. 

         Before returning to fantasy fiction and art, Ryan wore a few hats. He’s both illustrated and reported for National Public Radio and various trade publications, including DS News and MReport. He’s also freelanced for Al Jazeera America. He lived and worked in Uganda as a 2008-2009 Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar and holds a master’s degree from American University in Washington, D.C.

Somewhere along the way, he also started a nonprofit and fair-trade lingerie company that operated in West and Central Africa, respectively. Many of his friends still wear safari-print boxers.

Ryan lives in Texas, where he looks after his cat, Rusty.

To learn more about Ryan or his epic fantasy series, A King Without a Crown, visit RyanSchuette.com. 

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Interview with Ryan Schuette

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

I fell in love with fantasy and sci-fi fiction when I began reading the Dragonlance series and, soon after, the Star Wars Expanded Universe (now Star Wars Legacy) series. The vastness and immersiveness of these fictional worlds staggered me and made me want to replicate them in a world of my own. I authored a few books before A Seat for the Rabble, but this one is the culmination of a lifelong quest. in A Seat for the Rabble, I hope readers will find many of the same things that we saw in Game of Thrones and The Lord of the Rings: honor, betrayal, lore, forbidden love, moral grayness, and lessons we should all heed about those who pursue power.

2) What inspired you to write your book? 

I’ve always wanted to write and publish a work of epic fantasy, but it wasn’t until the Game of Thrones television series that I awakened to something that, to me, was novel: political fantasy. I’ve always had an interest in politics — in how people worked together for society, or didn’t — and had worked in Washington, D.C. I enrolled in a master’s program at American University at the same time my ideas for this novel began to solidify. Reporting from outside the White House, inside the halls of Congress, and on the sidelines of protests, I began to realize that the United States stood on the precipice of a full-fledged constitutional crisis. Wealth inequality, racism, perceptions of corruption in our government, and rancorous partisanship were leading this country down the path to hell. A Seat for the Rabble sprang from a desire to write about a society on the edge of falling apart, one populated by merpeople, elves, gryphons, and dragons.  

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

That society is a fragile thing, and it shatters if we push people to the margins and overlook inequality. Worse, tyrants often climb to power on the backs of angry, miserable people, especially those misled by conspiracy theories. It’s far better for a society’s leaders to do everything in their power to provide a debt-free, wealthy, and healthy existence for everyone. In A Seat for the Rabble, peasants lack representation in the Worthy Assembly, a congress of classes comparable to pre-revolutionary France’s Estates-General. The protagonists want to restore their seats in this parliament, not only to deliver justice but also to prevent a violent reckoning. Ultimately, the series asks a bigger question: Is man capable of ruling himself without destroying everyone else — and his own planet?

4) What drew you into this particular genre? 

I’ve always loved the transportive nature of fantasy. I credit Dragonlance, The Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Tigana, and the Kingkiller Chronicle with feeding my ambition to create a world of my own.

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

Great question, Anthony! One of the characters I relished writing, Evan Sinclair, is a noble lord who’s bent on reform for the sake of a united, peaceful realm. A man of peace for the longest time, Evan takes a Machiavellian turn when he realizes that a corrupt system of government won’t make concessions, even for its own self-preservation. While other characters, like his nephew, consider themselves men of honor, Evan isn’t above deceit, bribery, or even murder in the name of justice. He’s an ends-justifies-the-means kinda guy. If I sat down with him, I’d probably argue with him! I’d want to know why he thinks empowering peasants will lead to peace, when his kingdom’s complicated history suggests otherwise. 

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

I’d say Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Facebook helped me update fans and friends about the progress on A Seat for the Rabble for years, while Instagram provided me with a platform to share Ted Nasmith’s exquisite cover art and the chapter illustrations I created. More recently, I partnered with Storygram Tours’ micro-influencers to create videos and posts across Instagram and TikTok. I’m also planning to advertise A Seat for the Rabble and its sequel, An End to Kings, through Facebook’s paid advertising program.

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

Know your genre, read widely in that genre, and familiarize yourself with the publishing industry and what agents want. I benefited enormously from online workshops through Writer’s Digest University, which gave me the chance to ask questions of agents and submit my work to them for review. I’d also encourage aspiring writers to practice their craft and read The Hero’s Journey by Joseph Campbell. Last but certainly not least, anyone trying to write a book should start with the idea, then develop a chapter-by-chapter plot synopsis. I rewrote A Seat for the Rabble three times over six years, and I owed a large part of that to the plot I revisited endlessly. 

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

I’m a fantasy illustrator as well as an author, and I was thrilled to learn that A Seat for the Rabble’s chapter illustrations recently placed in the Honorable Mention category of the L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Contest, a global competition open to aspiring fantasy and sci-fi artists. I plan to continue creating fantasy art as I embark on another fantasy novel — one that, like A Seat for the Rabble, will touch on pressing contemporary issues with a heavy sprinkling of magic and mythical creatures. And, of course, I plan to release A Seat for the Rabble’s sequel, An End to Kings, this coming year, with more chapter illustrations and another glorious cover by Ted Nasmith. I invite anyone interested in following me to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

Grimmer Revisionist and Fairytales, Fables, and Nursery Rhymes by Marissa Carter 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. 

Author Marissa Carter shares classic fairy tales with a modern twist in the book “Grimmer Revisionist and Fairytales, Fables, and Nursery Rhymes”.

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The Synopsis

Remember when you were a kid, listening to bedtime stories full of classic fairy tales, fables, or nursery rhymes? Maybe you’ve even read those same stories to your kids. But what if you took those familiar tales, tossed out the rulebook, and filled them with modern twists, witty jokes, and a bit of cheeky irreverence? Welcome to the world of Grimmer Revisionist Fairy Tales, Fables, and Nursery Rhymes—where nothing is sacred, everything is funny, and adults get to enjoy the ride.

This first compendium is a delightful mix of styles. You’ve got fairy tales and fables, sure, but there’s a twist. The nursery rhymes might start off sweet but could suddenly veer into snarky commentary or morph into a completely different story. Along the way, you’ll encounter nods to pop culture, movies, books, politics, and even a little quantum physics (because, why not?). It’s like someone turned your grandma’s storybook inside out and sprinkled it with a generous dose of mischief. Get ready for a laugh, because this isn’t your childhood fairy tale collection—and that’s exactly what makes it so much fun.

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The Review

This new take on the fable/fairy tale genre was entertaining. The author provides unique commentary as each story is told, giving readers some insights into how we as a society view and absorb the themes of these iconic stories. The fast-paced pace of each fable and the unique modern-day story elements, such as the internet or television, allowed the reader to gobble up these stories.

The imaginative use of imagery in the author’s writing allowed these stories to come to life on the page. The three little pigs stood out to me, as the social interactions between the Wolf and each of the pigs were so fun and humorous. The wealth of modern themes, speaking on everything from parenting techniques and anger management to higher education, allowed these classic stories to breathe fresh air into the narrative overall.

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The Verdict

Imaginative, heartfelt, and entertaining author Marissa Carter’s “Grimmer Revisionist and Fairytales, Fables, and Nursery Rhymes” is a must-read story collection that brings a remarkable modern twist. The humor and wit that the author pours into each story and how it allows the reader to examine these classics from a fresh perspective gives a unique twist that readers won’t be able to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Marissa Carter PhD is a biostatistician, epidemiologist, EBM practitioner, and a health economist, spending a lot of her time designing, monitoring, and analyzing clinical studies in the fields of wound care, orthopedics, epidemiology, ophthalmology, and quality of life. Dr Carter’s strengths lie in the many scientific disciplines in which she worked that she brings to bear on medical problems. She is a peer reviewer for many medical journals and has served on medical-committees, been a leader of an international WHO project, and frequently interacts with the FDA and Medicare. She holds an MA in biochemistry from Oxford University and a PhD in chemistry from Brandeis University. She is the author or coauthor of more than 150 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters in medicine and chemistry and her studies have won several awards.

Marissa’s hobbies include international travel, reading, simple hiking, and military history. She also says her sense of humor could be listed as a hobby. Though born in London, UK, she has spent most of her life in the States and currently resides in western Montana.

Please Let Me Destroy You by Rupert Taylor 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. 

An ambitious young filmmaker puts himself through untold dangers to sell his dream project to a streaming service in author Rupert Taylor’s “Please let Me Destroy You”. 

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The Synopsis

In this darkly comic rollercoaster of a novel, a desperate young filmmaker goes on a global quest for perfect content.

While trying to heist a casino in the Cambodian jungle, Apollo Jones has a crippling panic attack. But he’s no seasoned crim, he’s a filmmaker, and he’s heisting the casino so he can turn the story into the first season of a preposterously ambitious TV show he hopes to sell to HBO or Netflix or some other global streaming powerhouse. Spoiler alert: his panic attack stuffs up the heist. As punishment, his partners slice off his right pinky. But the TV show is all he has, so Apollo bandages his stump and heads off on a search for stories that will take him to the steaming streets of Saigon, the glittering hills above Hollywood, and all the way back to the dark and damp Cambodian jungle, where he may or may not be forced to dig his own grave.

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The Review

This was an intriguing and memorable read. The author does an incredible job of creating a wide array of characters, some that feel relatable and engaging and others that play to the absurdist and thoughtful nature of the main story. The shifting perspectives from the protagonist to the side characters he meets along the way were great to see come to life on the page. 

The powerful themes and rabbit hole of a narrative were an instant draw for the book. The protagonist is ambitious yet self-absorbed and lacks any self-awareness, contributing significantly to the many misadventures he finds himself on. The theme worked on two fronts, with an examination of the cutthroat world of Hollywood in the 21st century becoming part of the central plot and a harder examination of the dog-eat-dog world that so many people in society live by, with everyone looking out for themselves without any awareness of the lives of others around them being explored on a much grander scale.

Make dad happy with a gift he will wear all year round at Happy Socks

The Verdict

Stylistic, engaging, and visceral in its approach, author Report Taylor’s “Please Let Me Destroy You” is a must-read genre fiction novel. The almost lyrical and attack-style of writing keeps readers mesmerized by the twists and turns in the story. The dynamic character development will keep readers returning for more as the story progresses. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Rupert Taylor is from Aotearoa New Zealand. He wrote a film called BEVERLY that screened at one film festival. That’s right, one. He also won a major international screenwriting competition that led to absolutely nothing getting made, but he does have several TV series in development, so you never know. His short fiction has appeared in Hobart, X-RAY, Maudlin House, Points In Case and others, and he currently lives in Sydney, with his partner and his daughter, who likes unicorns and shouting.

https://rupertctaylor.com

Shattered: Inspired by True Events by Jenell M.  Jones, M.ED. 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. 

Author Jenell M. Jones, M.ED. shares with readers the painful journey of fighting to get the proper care for her adoptive daughter in the book “Shattered: Inspired by True Events”.

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The Synopsis

With the trajectory of today’s society, we can all agree that parenting is difficult. Choosing to foster and adopt proves to not be an easy feat. Parents are in constant competition with societal influences and sometimes feel it’s an uphill battle. These same parents are often told they will be supported in the rearing of their children and that adequate resources would be made available. But what happens when you discover the system that promised to help you, would betray you? What happens when you decide to enter into another realm of difficulty – fostering and adopting children who come with mental and physical baggage? Meet Jenell Jones, an adoptive mother who is still trying to find the answers to these questions. In these pages, you will see through a mother’s eyes as she shares her deepest pain for her daughter, “Mercy.” In the end, justice is necessary and peace is questionable.

Make dad happy with a gift he will wear all year round at Happy Socks

The Review

This is such a heartbreaking and compelling read. The author finds the balance between telling her story, her daughter’s story, and how hospitals and the adoption system work as a whole. The detail and personal experience the author brought to the book allowed the reader to feel the stress and anxiety that this situation created and the shocking process that many parents have to struggle through trying to get their child, adopted or not, the help they need.

The true heart of this story is the emotional connection between the author and her daughter. Mercy’s tragic background and the struggles that the trauma she endured gave the reader a profound insight into the events that contributed to the young woman’s hardships. The heartbreak comes in the author’s personal story, as she does everything she can to get her child the help they need, even in the face of scrutiny from others, and her journey exposes so much of the lack of care and attention that many institutions give to parents who adopt children.

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The Verdict

Author Jenell M. Jones, M.ED.’s “Shattered” is a must-read. It is heartbreaking, engaging, and thought-provoking. The love and care this family has to give to their children, and the tragic circumstances surrounding mental health care and help for adoptive parents and children will keep readers invested in the author’s story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Jenell Jones is an education entrepreneur, currently operating 2 childcare and early learning centers, which specialize in providing high-quality learning experiences to children who experience trauma in low-income areas. Her education background includes earning a bachelor’s degree from Ottawa University, and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on autism. Being a Phoenician, Mrs. Jones has provided her expertise to adopting families for the last decade and currently hosts private discussions with other foster and adoptive parents on current issues affecting the non-traditional home.

In her spare time, Mrs. Jones prides herself on staying active in her church community in Peoria Arizona.  Mrs. Jones enjoys sharing her time, talent, and treasure with all those in need and thoroughly enjoys sharing her experiences as a natural, foster, and adoptive mother through the lens of Christianity. 

Jenell is committed to her family; she adores her 7 children.  Her children are the loves of her life.  Jenell is grateful that God allowed her to be the mother of each of them. She resides in Laveen, Arizona a suburb of Phoenix with her dogs, chickens, and fish. Jenell loves to be outside in nature and the garden. She takes pleasure in watching things grow.  She is an avid traveler, sparing no adventure, and desires to experience the goodness of God in all she does.  

Through her life experiences, passion is the source by which she governs herself to make a difference.  The goal is not to be perfect but to assist others in rising through difficulties. Life does not always go as it is planned, but she believes God will work all things out for the good she knows she just has to stay in God’s purpose. Mrs. Jones’ blueprint of success can be summed up in a few statements: Be tenacious, be kind, be loving, but most of all….be forgiving. 

https://www.jenelljones.com

Interview with Author Jeff Morris

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

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

I am from Charleston, West Virginia, but moved to Cary, North Carolina in 1972 at 8 years of age, so have lived here the majority of my life. I graduated from Cary High School in 1982, and served in the US Air Force from 83 to 87, then in the Air Force Reserves for a few months, then in my home state’s Air National Guard through the end of 1992 and Desert Storm.

I bounced around in employment till getting into the HVAC field in the mid 90’s, eventually going to work for the local natural gas company in 2000, where I still am today.

I married my lovely ‘spousal unit’ (An Air Force term), Jennifer in 1988, and we raised three children, daughter Sarah, 34, son Curtis, 31, and daughter Rachel, 26.

As far as getting into writing goes. I wrote a lot of silly stuff for school newspapers, and many short stories and the beginnings of novels starting in my early teens. Lost interest or trashed most of those handwritten items long ago, though there may be one or two notebooks in a box somewhere here with one or two of them jotted down. Early in our marriage, I began a novel that was a cross between historical fiction, sci-fi and fantasy based upon the American Civil War, and the photographs taken after the battle of Antietam in 1862. That one was the closest story I had, until Gunmetal Ridge, to being completed. Having young children and trying to get my wife through her nursing degree caused me to shelve, and eventually discard it. They were the most important things at that time.

I would think of story ideas over a twenty year period from the early 90’s to about 2010, jost a few ideas down, but never seriously wrote anything until all of my children were grown or almost grown.

More on that in the last question.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

I would have to say, first and foremost, my paternal Grandfather. He was a World War Two veteran, and a great story teller. I have fond memories of sitting with him on the front porch in the seventies, listening to Cincinnati Reds baseball games on the radio, way out in the country near Quick West Virginia. If the Reds were getting blown out, or winning big, he would turn the radio down and just start telling me stories of his youth, his service in the war, and the like. I soaked the stories in, with his gravelly voice painting pictures in my mind from his words.

Secondly, in my work as a gas company representative, I deal with John Q Public on a daily basis, and over the years have met many fascinating people, far more good than bad ones! Being a history buff, I have had several opportunities to hear snippets from older veterans of World War Two of what they did in the war, where they served and the like. These include a D-Day veteran, an Iwo Jima veteran, and a very old Pearl Harbor veteran, a survivor of the USS Arizona. I felt honored to just be in their presence, and hear a short snippet of their service in that time period.

Being a veteran myself, and having many members of my family that are also veterans was another inspiration. I wanted to write a story that honored the service of veterans, and especially of the greatest generation, who fought against, arguably perhaps, the worst regimes this world has ever known.

I also suppose I was inspired to simply finish one of these stories finally, and get it published!

Lastly, believe it or not, I drew inspiration from a music video, “Crowd around the Corner,” which was a cut from Earl Thomas Conley’s 1983 album “Don’t make it easy for me.” That song was not released as a radio single, but I liked it. I will say the video directly inspired one part of my book. NO spoilers from me, but read the book, then watch the video, and I’ll bet you can figure it out!

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

Learn from history. Talk to older people that lived it, and remember those that came before us. Older people have experiences that we can learn from, by listening to their stories. I believe that if we don’t hear the stories of our elders, and learn about the history they lived, we are destined to repeat mistakes of the past. In both small, personal scale, and historical era scale.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I am fascinated by history, particularly American History. Having many relatives as veterans drew me into it as well. I suppose I am one of those people who reads about historical events and wonders how I would have acted if I were thrust into the event.

I mentioned earlier listening to the snippets of stories from veterans I have spoken to about their service in World War Two, and chose to use that time period for my fictional story. I wanted to use a major battle, chose the Ardennes offensive of 1944 (better known as the Battle of the Bulge). I also wanted to use little known or studied events of the battle. Thanks to “Band of Brothers” most everyone knows of the heroic stand of the 101st Airborne at Bastogne, but I chose  to concentrate on a much less known aspect of that battle, the initial five days, the largest surrender of American troops in Europe (The Schnee Eiffel pocket and two regiments of the 106th infantry division) I researched that, and decided to drop my fictional characters into the very real remaining regiment of the 106th, the 424th. I also tried to keep their movements and deployments during the five days the story takes place in 1944 as accurate to the actual history as I could. Will Morgan’s actions in the story are a postulation I suppose of how I may have acted/reacted to the events of this historical battle.

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

Will Morgan. It would be like sitting again with my Grandfather, I would ask him about his service in the war of course, but also about growing up during the depression. I would try to get him to paint a picture with words of a time period that I cannot, and will never experience. If I could sit down with more than one, I’d have to say Al Baker and Jim Coulder as well, and ask them the same questions.

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

I suppose that would be Facebook/Instagram. You have to start somewhere, and these two platforms allowed me to get the book in front of people I know, and hopefully to people they know, outside of  my circle of minions!

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

1. Map your story out in your head, write yourself notes, and KEEP at it. 

2. GET IT EDITED! I initially published “Gunmetal Ridge” as “Mr. Morgans Memories” in 2022. I had the help of a couple of friends on the grammar editing and such, but I edited the content myself. Big mistake. After publication, I reread it several times, noticing mistakes I made in the text. I became discouraged, and dissatisfied with what I had published, and considered pulling it out of publication and pretending it never happened. By chance, I was asked to be a beta reader by an old high school friend who is writing an historical book, and from her, I was led to my editor Julie Rogers. Julie has been a Godsend as she took the time to go back and forth with me on the story till we had it trimmed down, enhanced in some aspects, and republished as “Gunmetal Ridge.” She also directed me to contests, to you for a professional review, and sites to aid in getting it out there in front of more people, though my own current money constraints hamper many of those avenues. Nevertheless, her insight, friendship and help has been invaluable, and I keep plugging along!

3. DREAM BIG. I keep myself in reality at all times, but I dream of seeing this story on the Big Screen, and on the bestseller list. Heck, I even know who I want to star in the movie as Will Morgan…Clint Eastwood as the old version, and his son Scott as the young version. May never happen, but it certainly won’t without first dreaming that it could!

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

I am currently beginning the process of pulling out a story I wrote around 2017, after my youngest daughter graduated and moved out. I initially published it unedited on an online site, but took it down soon after to work on it more. I shelved it when I started writing “Gunmetal Ridge”, and somehow deleted the file. It is not historical fiction, but rather a contemporary romance/crime story where the protagonists aid in bringing down a human trafficking ring. It is set in Georgia, and I plan on having one thing in the book that ties it in with “Gunmetal Ridge” to create my own little universe…like Stephen King does. Hey…DREAM BIG!

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About the Author

Jeffrey C. Morris began his career in the United States Air Force as an Avionic Inertial Navigation System Specialist at Seymour Johnson AFB in North Carolina. His unit was one of the last to maintain and fly the F-4E Phantom, earning the crew the moniker “Phantom Phixers.”

After receiving an honorable discharge from Air Force Active Duty, he served in the USAF Reserves before transferring to the 130th Tactical Airlift Group in the West Virginia Air National Guard. He served with the 130th until the end of Desert Storm.

Jeffrey attained an HVAC certificate upon leaving the military and worked in the HVAC field until accepting a position as a natural gas meter and installation specialist with Dominion Energy (Formerly PSNC) in 2000.

His love of American military history as well as his many conversations with veterans who served in wartime influence Jeffrey’s writing. GUNMETAL RIDGE, a composite story of many World War II veterans, is Jeffrey’s way of paying homage to the Greatest Generation.

A native of Charleston West Virginia, he lives with his wife and “spousal unit” of thirty-five years, Jennifer, in North Carolina. With their three grown children out living successful lives, Jeffrey intends to devote more time honing his craft and carving out the next historical military novel in his man cave. He also enjoys writing in other genres such as sci-fi, mystery, and romance.

In the Throes by Mathias B. Freese 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 creature that is the first of its kind discovers self-awareness and a passion for art in author Mathias B. Freese’s “In the Throes”.

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The Synopsis

In the Throes explores the awakening of intelligence and the coming into awareness of an evolutionary mishap on a forbidding apocalyptic planet.

The story follows eponymic Gruff, the first linguistic/metaphysical awakener of his species, as he navigates identity, mentation, and ontology in relation to the Gruff’s natural prey: humankind.

Combining the writings of Freud and the spiritual truths of Krishnamurti, author Mathias B. Freese depicts the Gruff as an evolutionary dark creature—disfigured, maimed, instinct-driven, and grotesque—until he attains self-awareness and transforms into a self of artistic expression and wisdom.

As the title suggests, the reader identifies with self-struggle as it surges toward awakening and is moved by the apotheosis that closes the book. The nuanced theme: each one of us is an artist if only we take our selves in hand and construct a life of artistic expression. The closing chapters sing to us of Isak Dinesen’s observation that an artist is never poor.

A metaphor of the evolutionary self, In the Throes is a time-processed journey into awareness—our destiny as a species.

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The Review

This was one of the most thought-provoking and philosophical sci-fi novels I’ve enjoyed reading. The rich blend of world-building, mythology, and philosophy allows the reader to get lost in this distant world. The story’s natural progression evenly matched the development of Gruff both as a character and as a specimen of his kind, exploring the development of sentient creatures overall in an entertaining yet thoughtful way.

Yet, it was Gruff’s evolution that stood out in this novel. Gruff’s way of thinking, the philosophical debate of instinct versus free will, and his awareness of himself and others around him made this story come to life on the page. The natural drive to create and be expressive was a fascinating approach to mankind’s creative voice, and how artists of one kind or another often dwell within us all spoke to the reader as they delved further and further into the story.

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The Verdict

Remarkable, thoughtful, and engaging author Mathias B. Freese’s “In the Throes” is a must-read sci-fi and philosophy novel. The vivid imagery of this harsh landscape and alien world, mixed with the detailed look at Gruff and his species as a whole and the inner evolution that speaks to mankind’s evolution on Earth, helps illustrate how even the most lumbering, bestial creature can have the heart of a poet or storytelling waiting to be uncovered over time. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

MATHIAS B. FREESE is a writer, teacher, and psychotherapist who has authored eight books. After his first novel, ‘The i Tetralogy’ on the Holocaust, his second work, ‘I Truly Lament: Working Through the Holocaust’, won the Beverly Hills Book Award, Reader’s Favorite Book Award, and was a finalist in the Indie Excellence Book Awards, the Paris Book Festival, and the Amsterdam Book Festival. In 2016 ‘Tesserae: A Memoir of Two Summers’, his first memoir, received seven awards. The following year his second memoir appeared, ‘And Then I Am Gone’.

https://www.mathiasbfreese.com

Carved from Wood (Crafting Humanity Book 2) by Brendan O’Meara 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 group of warriors must set out to dangerous new lands in author Brendan O’Meara’s “Carved From Wood”, the second book in the Crafting Humanity series.

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The Synopsis

Join James and the team as they confront their invaders in the Southern Federation.

After witnessing the devastating power of the BlankZone James and his team head South. Their self-ascribed mission is to explore the most dangerous place on the planet – the new BlankZone border in the Southern Federation.

While conspiracies drive the narrative in the North, James and his team set out to learn about the Federation’s mysterious aggressors. Jump back into the adventure as James and his friends discover new families, build allies, and come face to face with the enemy threatening their existence. Secrets, lies, and manipulation are exposed as James gets closer than he ever imagined to their greatest threat.

Sequel to the Next Generation Indie Young New Adult book award Cut From Stone.

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The Review

This was such a gripping and powerful read. The author immediately transports readers into the action, showcasing the protagonist and his allies after going AWOL and heading out alone. The tension and world-building the author does and expands upon in this novel are remarkable to see come to life on the page, as they help elevate the character arcs and the action considerably.

However, it was the balance the author struck between the intense action and the themes explored throughout this novel. The author manages to touch upon the horrors of war uniquely, showcasing how those in power wage the war, and innocent people are often caught in the middle of that war, with rarely anyone to protect them when it shows up at their door. The way the author explores this new territory, the BlankZone, and its similarities and differences with the Federation brought a sense of familiarity and relatability to the narrative.

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The Verdict

Action-packed, heartfelt, and entertaining author Brendan O’Meara’s “Carved from Wood” is a must-read sci-fi novel. The shocking twists and turns in the story and the vast amount of world-building leave readers eager to dive further into the author’s world. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Raised in White Plains, New York, Brendan O’Meara formed a love of stories and books from a young age. He has spent his free time over the last decade crafting his debut novel, Cut From Stone, book one in the Crafting Humanity series.

It began in Philadelphia where he attended college daydreaming about a dystopian reality. With a vivid imagination (as described by his middle school teachers) and a passion for adventure, Brendan’s novels will transport you to a different life and capture you from cover to cover.

Brendan lives in Washington, DC with his daughter, wife, and two dogs. You will find him on the weekends drinking a beer watching the Packers and Notre Dame football games. He is an avid reader with a specific interest in sci-fi, anything dystopian, fantasy, history, and all levels of fiction.

Brendan would love to hear from you, feel free to contact him any time at brendan.omeara@craftinghumanity.com.

Finally, visit craftinghumanity.com and sign up for our email lists for news, updates, and information on the rest of the Crafting Humanity series. We will not spam you!