I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Stephen E. Smith shares a vivid memoir from the mid 60’s that helps cope with the global COVID-19 virus in the book “The Year We Danced”.
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The Synopsis
With the number of Covid cases increasing and the death toll steadily rising, award-winning writer Stephen E. Smith decided it was appropriate — maybe even necessary — to write about happier, less stressful times.
In a box of forgotten files, he rediscovered loose-leaf binders and keepsakes from his first year of college. It had been more than half a century but reading through his course notes, personal observations, and the clippings he’d torn from magazines and newspapers, he pieced together the events, good and bad, tender and tragic, that shaped his freshman year.
Much of what he writes is disarmingly funny, but recalling the Civil Rights Movement, the War in Vietnam, and the complexities of finding himself a stranger in the South forced him to reassess a period of his life he’d long recalled as carefree. In this vivid and poignant mid-60s memoir, readers come to understand how friendship, a love of language and music, and the bittersweet remembrance of lost love can help sustain us through difficult times.
The Review
The biggest takeaway from this incredible memoir is the relatability so many readers will be able to have with it. The honesty and everyman-style of writing really speak to the author’s experiences and life well, and the way the author was able to incorporate humor and showcase the lessons and insights that the author gained during his life made this a compelling book.
The artistic and poetic nature of the author’s vision for this book was evident in every chapter. The author brought readers into these memories and experiences as if they lived through them. The rich and dynamic individuals that the author brings into the book from his life and the absurd humor that keeps the book fun and light while honest and enlightening in other moments make this a great book to get lost in.
The Verdict
Author Stephen E. Smith’s “The Year We Danced” is a humorous, relatable, and engaging memoir. Its unique absurdist writing style, entertaining memories, and heartfelt attention to detail about the era it describes make it a wholly unique read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Dolores Reynals goes on an emotional and heartfelt journey of self discovery, finding her true self and living life authentically in the book “The Smallest Wave”.
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The Synopsis
“There is fierceness in the smallest wave, even the tiniest ones that reach the shore do what they do with all their might. They don’t ask for permission, and they don’t care that they are small.”
Dolores Reynals was born with an insatiable curiosity and a longing to explore beyond the confines of her family and a conventional environment, giving her a strong determination to dive into the unknown and grow into her true self away from the influences of her youth.
Her quest leads her from her hometown of Mendoza, Argentina to Spain, London, Los Angeles, and Mexico. Sometimes settling and sometimes wandering, Dolores confronts questions that echo those of her past, contemplating femininity, authenticity, and the elusive meaning of home.
With raw emotion and poetic insight, The Smallest Wave is a woman’s journey to live true to the person she is, even if it means releasing everything else.
The Review
What a compelling and heartfelt memoir. The author does such an elegant job of capturing the sense of adventure and discovery that travel can bring to people. The use of imagery in the author’s writing, as well as a poetic writing style, allowed the reader to feel transported each time the author took a new step towards a new location and a new journey. The writing style was as sophisticated yet honest as an artist with a paintbrush, allowing readers to get lost in the words the author brought to life.
The themes of identity, self-discovery, womanhood, and home all felt very prominent in the author’s memoir. The thoughtfulness and honesty that allowed the author to deliver not only the experiences she had but the lessons she learned and the impact of those decisions on her overall journey made the book flow perfectly. The reader was able to feel like they were growing right along with the author as the trip progressed, and readers could instantly make a connection emotionally with the author as well.
The Verdict
Adventurous, heartfelt, and engaging author Dolores Reynals’s “The Smallest Wave” is a must-read memoir. The relatability of so many people, especially women who are looking to discover themselves, was remarkable to see a spark to life on the page. The amount of sympathy, heart, and compassion the reader feels for the author and considers the author brings to her own life as each experience teaches her something new will have readers returning to this book time and time again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Dolores Reynals was born in Mendoza, Argentina. She started out as a radio actress before moving to London to attain her BA (Hons) in Drama from the University of Surrey. Since then she has worked internationally and now lives nowhere in particular, often between Europe and Mexico.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Austin W. Bunch uses his years of sales experience to share a guide to improving one’s own sales technique in the book “The Bunch Book of Selling: How to Sell a Bunch…Not a Little”.
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The Synopsis
They say those who can, do. And those who can’t, teach. But those who can both do and teach, well, they’re named Austin Bunch.
Considered the leading expert on sales training in the gift, home accessories and furniture industries, Bunch has sold everything from pots and pans to pantyhose and has taken that knowledge to create “The Bunch Sales Process,’ a hands-on, easy method that has proven itself time after time.
Now he’s taken those years of sales trainings, those dozens of companies he’s helped and those hundreds of people he’s taught and put it all into a new book, “The Bunch Book of Selling,” now available on Amazon.
Austin doesn’t consider himself a motivational speaker nor a technician…much less a miracle worker. But what’s he developed is a process that uses simple tools like scripts, key words and just plain old common sense to show both sales veterans and newcomers a new approach to selling, on the telephone, online and in-person.
It starts simply enough — “May I” are the two most important words any good salesperson can use in working with their customers – and goes from there to sample scripts that can be used to address any number of selling situations.
How well does Austin’s Process work? Ask the people who have used it:
“We thought he could put into place a unique marketing program that would at least keep our heads above water. But what occurred instead was that business rose well above our expectations and we flourished, having the biggest sales years in our business history.
The Review
This was an insightful and compelling read. The author did a great job of laying out the steps and lessons he gathered during his career and weaving those lessons into the events and memories of where he acquired them. The educational value of those lessons and the interactive nature of what the author is laying out for readers made this book highly engaging.
The author’s pointed and matter-of-fact writing style allows readers to really get into the lessons he lays out. The details that go into the author’s message to readers and the unique perspective on seeing products to both the consumer directly and the retailers selling these products were enthralling to read. The emphasis on writing out scripts, backing up those lessons with example scripts, and encouraging readers to develop their scripts made this an educational book to get lost in.
The Verdict
Memorable, thoughtful, and enlightening author Austin W. Bunch’s “The Bunch Book of Selling” is a must-read nonfiction business book. The ability to show readers how to utilize clear-cut communication and the improvement to the salesman’s toolkit made this one book you don’t want to miss. Be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Austin Bunch is renowned for his prowess in both practical salesmanship and instructional acumen. He stands as the preeminent industry leader in sales consulting and training within the gift, home accessories, and furniture sectors. With a rich background spanning diverse product categories, Bunch has meticulously distilled his extensive expertise into The Bunch Sales Process” -—a pragmatic methodology for selling just about anything to just about anybody in a variety of industries.
Drawing from years of experience as a salesman, a sales manager, a CEO, and a sales consultant and trainer across numerous enterprises, Bunch has authored “The Bunch Book of Selling,” a practical and comprehensive how-to guide in selling. Bunch modestly positions himself not as a motivational speaker or technical guru, but rather as a purveyor of practical wisdom gleaned through years of learning by trial and error. Every piece of advice is backed up with evidence. His transactional approach revolves around elemental tools such as scripts, pivotal phrases, and common sense, offering both seasoned professionals and neophytes a fresh perspective on telephone, online, and face-to-face interactions. He also explains ‘why’ his methods excel over others.
Testimonials from those who have embraced Bunch’s methodology attest to its transformative impact, taking their businesses from a downturn in sales to unprecedented heights with strong profit margins. As one beneficiary succinctly reflects, the implementation of Bunch’s approach not only surpassed expectations but ushered in an era of unparalleled prosperity, marking the pinnacle of their business’s sales history.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Discover the best practices and principles to properly invest in cryptocurrency in the book “Cryptocurrency Investing: The Fundamental Analysis Guide”.
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The Synopsis
Uncover the mysteries of successful crypto investing with this all-encompassing guide to fundamental analysis.
Cryptocurrency, one of the most exciting and revolutionary investment forms of the 21st century, continues to evolve. As it does, the potential for smart, sustainable investment increases. However, with these great opportunities come considerable risks. This is where this comprehensive guide becomes your essential companion.
Embark on an in-depth journey through the complexities of crypto investing, guided by the insights of fundamental analysis. This is more than just a book; it’s your roadmap to navigating the volatile waves of the crypto market, designed to steer you toward your financial goals.
This book will educate you on everything you need to know about crypto investing, from the fundamentals of investments to advanced portfolio management strategies. Dive into the art and science of fundamental analysis, a strategy respected in traditional finance and now cleverly adapted for the crypto sphere.
The guide is designed for everyone, whether you’re a newcomer to the crypto world or a veteran investor seeking to expand your knowledge.
Here’s what awaits you:
• A deep understanding of cryptocurrency investment backed by evidence and experience.
• Strategic insights drawn from traditional finance enable wise decision-making.
• Examining crypto’s interaction with various fields broadens your investment viewpoint.
• A detailed guide to devising and implementing a successful investment strategy.
• Methods to identify, select, and invest in top-tier crypto projects.
• Resources to manage your portfolio, reduce risks, and accurately track your investment progress.
Distinguish yourself from the speculative crowd. This book simplifies complex concepts into practical knowledge, avoiding baseless predictions and technical jargon. Instead, it offers a balanced, unbiased perspective on crypto investing, highlighting the unique benefits of cryptocurrencies, including Tokenomics, decentralized finance (DeFi), and more.
This guide is organized into three key sections—Portfolio Management, Investment Strategy, and Investment Implementation—providing a step-by-step path to crypto investing expertise. From setting achievable financial goals, building a solid portfolio, identifying innovative crypto projects, and refining your investment strategies, we’ve got you covered.
It’s more than just a book; it’s a mentor, a guide, and a market ally all in one. This is the result of years of expertise designed to protect you from the pitfalls of crypto investing while accelerating your journey to success.
Grab this opportunity to be at the cutting edge of the crypto revolution. Arm yourself with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence to prosper in the dynamic world of cryptocurrency investing. Your journey to financial empowerment begins here. Don’t just observe the crypto wave—surf it. Order your copy now and start an investment journey that could transform your financial future.
The Review
One of the things that immediately stood out to me as a reader was the accessibility of the subject matter. Personally, finances and investment, as well as cryptocurrency, have always been a mystery to me, and finding a means of connecting the average reader, such as myself, to these industries has always been a challenge. Still, the author does a marvelous job of writing in a way that explains the intricacies of cryptocurrency and relates to the reader in the process.
The insight and detail the author goes into is brilliantly laid out. Not only does the author go into managing one’s portfolio and the reasons one should invest, but also what goes into trading and the different cycles in the market overall. The strategies and step-by-step guide give readers a blueprint to success while cautioning readers on all the risks involved, creating the perfect balance.
The Verdict
Educational, memorable, and insightful, Crypto Engineer’s “Cryptocurrency Investing: The Fundamental Analysis Guide” is a must-read nonfiction business and financial book. The knowledge and guidance the author provides will not only expand readers’ knowledge of cryptocurrency as an industry but also help those looking to expand their ongoing investments. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
For the last ten years, Crypto Engineer has worked as a consultant and manager in the IT industry. He also owned a software company and a fintech start-up.
He invested his financial surplus in the stock market. After learning about cryptocurrencies, he also entered this space. In the absence of a complete guide, he learned from his mistakes.
In 2021, he started publishing educational content on X (Twitter) as a Crypto Engineer. He aimed to professionalize the industry by sharing how to invest in this market.
He won many competitions for the best crypto writer and earned thousands of dollars (you can find more details on his website). This demonstrated the demand for high-quality content about investing in cryptocurrencies.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Mamadou Diakite shares the painful reality of a corrupt family court system in the United States in the book “Broken Justice: My Harrowing Experience in the United States Court System”.
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The Synopsis
I revere the American Judicial System. In fact, in my opinion, I believe it is the most advanced judicial system in the world. That said, it is marred with corruption. I recently lived the most horrific experience of my life dealing with the system. I emerged from my ordeal believing that the Family Court system is notoriously corrupt.
Family Court in the U.S. is a highly-profitable business. Statistics show that more money passes through Family Court than any other court. The more the attorney charges, the more people are willing to pay because they believe that money equals skills. The only winners in these courts are the attorneys. This is not what it was intended to be. Let’s change it!
The unethical conduct of attorneys and bad Family Court judgments leave families financially devastated and emotionally damaged. In my specific case, the court erred in 4 crucial areas and ignored my repeated pleas to fix its errors:
1.The Court erred in allowing Petitioner to use self-authenticated exhibits while dismissing mine under the pretext that they were self-authenticated.
2.The Court erred in reinstating child support payments, although said child has reached majority, graduated from college, and was no longer attending high school.
3.The Court erred in allowing a claim of disability not substantiated by clinical findings and refuted by
4.The Court erred in denying me the opportunity to counter Petitioner’s claim that I failed to honor my timesharing obligation. Petitioner’s own physical assessments.
It is the Court’s responsibility to prevent error-ridden trials. That I chose to represent myself (Pro Se) during the trial because I could not afford an attorney should not have diminished the importance of my case nor be cause to ignore my pleas. Only the facts should have determined the outcome of the case. A Judge should be very acutely aware of the limitations and exercise of his/her judicial power. Those limitations should come in the adherence to the facts, which the court failed to do in my case. As a consequence, I have lost trust and respect for the system. Trust, respect, and legitimacy are essential to the Court’s authority, which depends on its credibility, credibility that I have lost.
Please sign my petition on change.org: tinyurl.com/464v6z58 to help me make my case. Together, we can indict the system and hopefully make legislative changes to improve the legal process to better serve the families that utilize it.
The Review
I was immediately struck by the balance the author achieved in this book. While the author was able to relay the personal details of their experience, the detailed and educational value of exploring the justice system, particularly the way family courts work, both how they are supposed to work and how corruption changes those concepts, made this book so engaging.
The research and experience the book’s content brought out were significant to see and allowed the reader to connect more to the author’s struggles. The emotional pull that the author’s story brings out enables the reader to connect to his journey, and the shocking details of the author’s story will resonate with readers long after the book ends.
The Verdict
Memorable, engaging, and thoughtful author Mamadou Diakite’s “Broken Justice” is a must-read nonfiction book. The twists and turns in the author’s struggles and the detail the author went into made this a remarkable book. If you haven’t yet be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Hi, I am Mamadou, and this is my story. In 1985, I immigrated to the United States with the noble pursuit of the American Dream. Through years of dedicated effort, I attained a culmination of achievements, acquiring degrees and expertise in diverse fields such as math, chemistry, pharmacy, healthcare administration, and even contributing to the development of a clinical intervention software in 1998, when the World Wide Web was only 5 years old. Alongside these accomplishments, I built a business in nutritional supplements. However, my story took a disheartening turn as it intersected with a justice system led astray by the manipulations of a bitter and vindictive ex-wife, morally bankrupt attorneys, and a corrupt judge.
I like to think of myself as a resilient man facing the relentless storm of a justice system gone awry, and who stood as a testament to the endurance of the human spirit. My journey through the harrowing post-divorce legal battles began in 2014, yet the echoes of injustice continued to still reverberate in my life. I have found myself entangled in a web of deceit woven by my ex-wife and her unscrupulous lawyers. These legal vultures, devoid of morality, concocted schemes that transcended the boundaries of human decency.
One of their most egregious acts involved emotionally abusing me and my children. I write in details about this in the book. Other examples include, manufacturing evidence and filing it with the court, orchestrating a deplorable plan to seize my vehicle, abduct my children, and drain my bank account. The cruelty of their agenda knew no bounds, leaving scars that ran deep within the hearts of a broken family.
In their pursuit of financial gain, my ex-wife was advised by one of her attorneys to quit her job and fraudulently apply for Social Security disability benefits, so I would pay child support at an even higher rate. A chilling example of how these attorneys manipulated the system for their own gain, regardless of the human cost. The depths to which they sank seemed bottomless, filing motions that bordered on the absurd, such as demanding that I provide my mother’s will, even though she was very much alive.
The depravity reached its zenith when a judge, seemingly blind to justice, dismissed nearly all my exhibits and declared my ex-wife disabled without evidence. This, despite Social Security rejecting her disability application and her own physician’s clinical findings refuting her claim of disability. The judge, an inexplicable arbiter of fate, ruled in favor of the fraudulent disability benefits. And this despite me having already paid seven years of child support for my two kids and seven years of spousal support to my ex-wife and that my child support and spousal support obligations had been achieved.
Although my children have emancipated, I have also paid an additional 29 months of extra child support for my older daughter and 9 months of extra child support at twice the rate of the previous seven years for my younger daughter. I have also given half of my retirement savings to my ex-wife, although she refused to go to work for 10 of the 13 years we were together. I am also responsible for my children’s health, dental and vision insurance premiums, which I do not mind. Despite all of that, a Judge with a corrupt sense of reality ordered me to pay my ex-wife’s attorney fees, $73,000 and an additional $52,800 in child support. HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH, HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH?
I, however, refuse to be broken by the system that has failed me. I have therefore decided to embark on a journey to expose the truth and hold those responsible for these egregious acts accountable.
Faced with injustice within the legal system and feeling a lack of recourse elsewhere, I am compelled to bring my case to the COURT OF PUBLIC OPINION. In this endeavor, I am wholeheartedly dedicated to recounting my story within the pages of this book and please Sign and Share My Petition. By joining forces, we aim to hold the system accountable and advocate for legislative changes that can improve the legal process, ensuring better service for the families it serves.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Janet Polach, PH.D., shares some insights into the common mistakes new managers make and how they can best prevent these mistakes from occurring in the book “The Seven Mistakes New Managers Make: How to Avoid Them and Thrive”.
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The Synopsis
Whether you are a manager of many, or a team leader of a few, being a leader requires letting go of the day-to-day work tasks you did so well as an individual contributor and, instead, encouraging production and success through others. New managers are usually promoted because they were outstanding individual contributors: they spoke up in staff meetings, shared good ideas, and executed on time and within scope. Yet, these characteristics are not necessarily the same ones that will make you successful as a frontline manager. Often, organizations invest little in new manager development; thus, new managers are left to guess at what effective leaders do. They often find themselves pressing forward through trial and error. If this sounds familiar, then this book, which examines the seven most common mistakes new managers make, is for you. Each chapter highlights a common challenge that new managers will recognize and then describes strategies and behaviors to build the skills needed to avoid mistakes and achieve success. This book is ideal for the new manager who hopes to evolve into a great leader.
The Review
This was an engaging and fast-paced read. The author does an incredible job of balancing the book’s objectives, allowing readers to get a glimpse of the problems new managers face and the solutions to those problems. The clear and concise nature of the book’s message pairs well with the author’s friendly and personal writing style in each chapter.
The way the author showcased how new managers often come from a place of personal, individual success and need to evolve into team leaders was great to see unfold on the page. From gathering the right tools to effectively lead the team to helping your team develop as individuals and as a group, each chapter effectively walks readers through the steps to become fantastic new managers in their field.
The Verdict
Concise, effective, and engaging author Janet Polach, Ph.D., “The Seven Mistakes New Managers Make” is a must-read business and nonfiction book. The book’s message’s quick pace and interactive nature will keep readers returning to it repeatedly. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Janet Polach, Ph.D., is a global coach and leadership development professional. She has coached leaders around the world, including China, South Korea, Singapore, Puerto Rico, Switzerland, Ireland, the Netherlands, and the U.S. She believes all leaders can be great if they invest the time and energy into gathering feedback on themselves and focusing on their development. Janet’s foundation for leadership started in the United States Marine Corps, where she achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before retiring from the Marine Corps Reserves. She possesses deep academic knowledge in adult learning, leadership development, and coaching. Janet holds her Ph.D. in organizational leadership and development from the University of Minnesota.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
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Author Maya Shine shares a holistic and spiritual approach to preparing young people for adulthood in the book “Actionable Life Skills For Young Adults”.
The Synopsis
Discover What School Didn’t Cover!
Are you a parent or guardian worried about whether your teen will be able to fend for themselves when they leave the nest?
Are you a teen or young adult wondering which life skills you should learn to prepare for independence?
➡️ If the former, help your teen with this practical guide designed to assist them in building essential life skills while fostering communication with trusted adults.
➡️ If the latter, embark on a transformative journey, from self-discovery to the exhilarating moment of breaking free, with this research-backed, easy-to-read book, based on an innovative version of the proven 5WH framework.
Shatter the myths surrounding the challenges of adulthood as you’re guided through real-life stories, practical milestones, and thought-provoking questions. Embrace a holistic approach to personal and professional growth and learn how to:
Set clear goals to achieve your aspirations with purpose and determination.
Study smartly and conquer boredom.
Understand student federal and private loans.
Gain a clear understanding of how to succeed in the professional world.
Handle neurodiversity in the workplace for a successful professional journey.
Develop responsible financial habits to help avoid debt and achieve financial security.
Understand tax filings.
Tackle interpersonal conflicts confidently.
Ensure safety both at home and online.
Unlock a healthier and more vibrant life.
Much, much more.
In addition to the basic life skills necessary to “kick-start” the exciting adventure of adulthood, this guide encourages you to further investigate abilitiesthat align with your specific needs and goals using the suggested method. This way, you aren’t confined to the book’s content and can explore new horizons with the guidance of trusted adults.
“But everyone’s journey is unique.” You’re right! That’s why the book offers a customizable feature, empowering you to shape your own future.
“I don’t have time for a comprehensive guide.” That’s okay! You can read chapters independently, offering a flexible approach that fits your schedule.
“I’m not sure it’s relevant to my situation.” The diverse range of topics ensures relevance to common challenges faced by teens, aged 16+, in the U.S.
Choose Your Destiny!
The Review
When it comes to education, I’ve always been a firm believer in positive reinforcement. It’s how I approach reviewing as well, as I think finding the good in a person’s work and utilizing positive comments to help a person’s weaker points is the right approach. That is the heart of the author’s book here, using positivity to help guide young adults into adulthood naturally.
The book does an excellent job of honing in on various topics, from decision-making and finances to self-care and even street smarts. The reflective nature of the author’s work allows the reader to put the author’s advice and educational value into practice and serves as the perfect book to return to time and time again.
The Verdict
Engaging, thought-provoking, and insightful author Maya Shine’s “Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults” is a must-read self-help and guidebook. The straightforward yet positive approach to the subject matter and how this book can help young adults and parents hoping to ensure their children’s future is as secure as possible made this a compelling nonfiction read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Maya Shine, a proud “award-winning author” specializing in literature for teens and young adults, takes extra pride in crafting impactful, high-quality, and innovative books. With a unique blend of expertise, personal experience, and a heartfelt commitment to literary excellence, Maya celebrates her achievements by delivering exceptional narratives to readers worldwide.
Her journey, shaped by a background in computer engineering, a master’s degree in administration, and certifications in information security, has led her through diverse roles as a consultant, team leader, and manager over the past two decades. Additionally, she maintains a profound interest in psychology, art, science, literature, and spirituality.
Her most significant role unfolds in her personal life as a devoted mother to a daughter navigating the tumultuous stage of adolescence—a phase Maya herself faced unprepared. Her personal life experience acted as the catalyst for her mission: to bridge the gap in guidance and preparation, helping teens and young adults navigate the challenges of adolescence, and prepare for successful adulthood, both personally and professionally.
Driven by her passion for empowering teens and young adults, Maya penned an “award-winning book” inspired by her formative years, drawing from her transformative journey where trial and error became the path to self-discovery.
Her unique value lies in sharing personal experiences, the wisdom of inspirational figures, and innovative ideas derived from exploring literature and scientific research.
Raised by a single mother, Maya often faced limited resources, influencing her writing dedicated to young adults navigating difficult circumstances, like those raised by single parents, growing up without parental figures, facing incarceration, or identifying as neurodivergent.
Maya’s commitment extends beyond individual empowerment; it’s grounded in her belief in the collective intelligence and compassion within the global community. She envisions a world where collective efforts contribute to the growth and success of flourishing generations.
Maya’s “award-winning book” is more than a guide; it’s an empowering resource designed to inspire, enlighten, and ultimately help teens and young adults achieve fulfillment — and pass the torch to the next generation.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Lori Van Dusen shares the roller coaster that was her rise in the world of Wall Street in the memoir “Running with Grace”.
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The Synopsis
Nothing about Lori Van Dusen’s childhood indicated she’d become one of the nation’s top independent financial advisors. She was born prematurely with a genetic blood disorder. Her parents divorced when she and her twin brother were less than a year old. But her big, boisterous, loving Italian family, led by her beloved grandfather, a first-generation American with only an eighth-grade education, taught her that the only limitations in life are those we impose on ourselves.
As a young person, Lori wanted to sing on Broadway, not manage money on Wall Street. But in 1986, this quiet, serious young woman walked into the rough-and-tumble, eat-what-you-kill world of Shearson Lehman Brothers and never looked back. She fought her way to the top by thinking outside the box and working her ass off despite the jeers, insults, and sideways glances. Her secret weapon? A need to prove herself so strong she could outwork anyone.
But Lori’s trajectory to the top was not a straight, upward line; it was a rollercoaster. She hit the pinnacle of success only to have it ripped away in a legal battle with one of the biggest banks in the world. She was raped by a PhD candidate at Harvard, swindled by a business partner, and battled two life-altering medical diagnoses. None of that, though, would compare to having the two people she loved most in the world taken way too soon.
Despite the fear and pain, Lori remained hopeful and resilient. In this memorable, poignant, and inspiring memoir, she shares her lowest lows and highest highs as well as hard-earned wisdom from her bumpy personal, professional, and spiritual journey. Life was never meant to be fair, she learned, but we must keep running with grace if we are to find purpose and joy in the face of adversity.
The Review
This was a moving and compelling read. The author did an incredible job of layering this narrative and true story with a healthy balance of drama and heart. The author’s personal tale brought the detailed aspects of the financial industry to life, and her experiences while making her way up the corporate ladder were insightful and engaging.
Yet, it was the heart that was poured into this narrative that made the story so gripping. The memoir proved to be more about the trials and tribulations that the author faced both in their personal and professional life rather than a linear tale of the world of Wall Street, and this allowed the reader to connect and fully feel the emotional weight of the author’s life experiences. The tension and heartbreak the author’s life touches upon and how she overcame tragedy to become the person she is today send a sad yet uplifting message that readers can resonate with powerfully.
The Verdict
Remarkable, insightful, and engaging author Lori Van Dusen’s “Running with Grace” is a must-read memoir and business book. The heartfelt delivery of such a personal story and its impact on the author’s life and readers looking to make their mark in the world will keep people invested in this thoughtful and heartening read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
Lori Van Dusen, CIMA®, is the Founder and CEO of LVW Advisors, a registered investment advisory firm that serves both wealthy families and individuals, as well as nonprofit institutions throughout the United States. An advocate of client-focused strategies for more than 25 years, she has become the voice of reason for providing comprehensive integrated solutions in a fragmented financial services industry.
Lori began her investment advisory career in 1987 with Shearson Lehman Brothers, which was later acquired by Citigroup Smith Barney. By 2004, she had achieved the title of Managing Director with Citigroup Smith Barney. She founded LVW Advisors in 2011.
A recipient of numerous accolades, Lori was named to Barron’s Financial Advisor Hall of Fame, which recognizes advisors who have appeared in 10 or more of Barron’s annual Top 100 Advisor rankings. Additionally, Lori was ranked #1 in New York – NY State on Forbes’ 2023 and 2022 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list, and has been ranked for five consecutive years on Forbes’ America’s Top Wealth Advisors list and Forbes’ America’s Top Women Advisors lists. In 2022, she was named CEO of the Year by Institutional Investor’s RIA Intel.
In recognition of her involvement in the Rochester community, Lori was recognized in the Rochester Business Journal’s 2023, 2022, and 2021 Power 100 list and received the 2020 Women of Excellence distinction with the Circle of Excellence honor. The Circle of Excellence recognizes a small group of women each year with longstanding, notable success in the community who are leading the way for other women. Additionally, Lori was inducted into the 2019 Rochester Business Hall of Fame and joins a prestigious list of Rochester business leaders who have been previously inducted. Lori has also been recognized by the Girl Scouts of Western New York as one of the 2019 Women of Distinction.
Lori is passionate about numerous philanthropic causes, serving on several boards focused on urban education, health and wellness and the fine arts, including the Monroe Community College Foundation Board, the University of Rochester Medical Center Board, the F.F. Thompson Health System Board, and the Memorial Art Gallery Board of Managers.
Lori was one of the founders of the Association of Professional Investment Consultants (APIC) and Citigroup Institutional Consulting. She holds the Certified Investment Management Analyst® designation, administered by the Investments and Wealth Institute® (formerly IMCA) in conjunction with The Wharton School. Lori received her undergraduate degree from Ithaca College and a Master of Education from Harvard University.
Lori is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestselling book Running with Grace: A Wall Street Insider’s Path to True Leadership, a Purposeful Life, and Joy in the Face of Adversity, published in 2023.
A native of Rochester, New York, Lori is a long-distance runner and an avid yogi, and enjoys decorating and savoring the area’s local music scene. She regularly cooks and hosts large Italian meals for her family and friends.
No compensation was paid to obtain the above awards. LVW Advisors paid a fee for promotional materials related to Forbes and Barron’s awards. Please see our Disclosures page for additional information.
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Interview with Author Lori Van Dusen
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I’ve always had a connection to the page. I believe writing regularly helps me be more creative and also helps flesh out ideas. I’ve been writing regularly since university. I’ve contributed a number of white papers to my industry journals, write out every speech I’ve ever delivered and journal daily as a way to relieve stress and organize my thoughts. I will admit though, I’d never considered myself a writer with a capital W, and certainly never appreciated how hard it was to write a book.
2) What inspired you to write your book, Running with Grace?
I began writing Running with Grace as a personal journal to help with my healing process from the unexpected loss of my husband. When I lost my mom, just a short time later, I wished she had captured her life story for me before she passed away from cancer. I miss her every day, and thought if I had her with me on the page, it would be such a comfort.
I started the project as a way to capture my life’s stories for my sons, and as I shared it with people, including my sons, they all encouraged me to collect the stories into a book to publish them.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
Resilience, for sure. I am hoping the book inspires people to find their inner strength and embrace moving through all the things that happen to them, both the good and the horrific. I don’t think you don’t need to go through unspeakable tragedy to be wise, but as I look at my life now, I realize that I am a much wiser and more thoughtful person for going through the loss of my husband and mother.
If my book helps people even get through one day a little lighter, then I think it will have been worthwhile.
It’s been so gratifying to me to see the reviews from people who have read the book. Running with Grace is a Wall Street Journal bestseller and been praised for its “emotional power” by Kirkus Reviews and Readers’ Favorite describes it as “a story of triumphs and defeats inspiring readers to never give up.”
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I never thought I would write a memoir. I had been toying with writing a book of business lessons from a woman in finance and I had even began an outline before my husband died.
After my husband died, I started to believe there had to be a reason all these tragic things had happened to me, and that I wanted to share the lessons that I had learned. It’s such a deeply personal book that the only way I thought to reach people was to write it as a memoir. My individual stories became chapters with the thread of resilience tying them all together.
5) If you could sit down with any character in your book (apart from yourself!), what would you ask them and why?
Without a doubt, my grandfather. I have so many questions for him that as a child I would have never thought to ask. I would love to learn more of his story–about his upbringing and how he became the person of such deep integrity. I’d also love to know what it really felt like when as a man in his middle age he became essentially the father to twin babies. I can’t imagine that was easy, but I never felt anything but love and support from him.
6) Has there been a social media site in particular that has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
LinkedIn has been hugely beneficial for me. Not only is it the only social media site I personally spend time on, but I’ve found the connections I’ve made to be richer and more fruitful. LinkedIn recently connected me to a podcast series, that invited me to do a live chat for their subscribers. To support the event, they purchased books as well as interviewed me. LinkedIn hasn’t been overwhelmed by the noise of the other social media platforms, yet. And I am hoping it stays that way.
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Find a great editor. No one writes a book alone. The book writing process is much more difficult than I expected. I independently published and invested in professionals to guide me through what feels very much like the wild west process.
I also suggest an aspiring writer assemble a group of trusted beta readers who will give candid feedback. My beta readers were incredibly helpful, especially at identifying some of the business discussions that were too insider baseball for a wider audience. Every writer (and person really) has inherent biases and a diverse group of outside readers can spot them for you. Include people who don’t know you personally to get the most objective feedback.
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Are any new books/projects on the horizon?
If readers learn anything from the book it is that the old Yiddish adage “Man Plans and God Laughs” is true. It’s futile to control the future. The only thing you can control is your actions in the present. My life has played out in no way that I had ever envisioned and my hope is that this book will introduce me to an audience outside the finance community as the message is really relevant to women and men everywhere.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
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Author Desiree Carpenter helps readers bridge the gap between race and culture using the lyrics of artist Tupac Shakur to craft a workbook in the book “Let’s Talk About It: Tupac Shakur; More Than the Music”.
The Synopsis
Safe space conversations can be the foundations to build bridges between our differences of race, culture, social issues, and all things that affect everyday people. This workbook is intended to help professors and other educators, public leaders, non-profits, community organizers, and the public interested in having the dialogues that can bring about community growth and positive change.
Each chapter contains a Tupac song that we will break down and discuss through conversation and questions. The chapters begin and end with relatable quotes by prolific writers from, Tzu Sun, St. Augustine, and Harriet Tubman to Jay Z, Beyonce, KRS One, Meek Mill and Barack Obama. These quotes are intended to spark our brains into thinking of things greater than ourselves. The challenge would be to ask ourselves, “Why did this person say this?” and “Did it need to be said at all?” What were the conditions that would drive someone to say something so profound?
The goal is to encourage heartfelt dialogue between people from different communities and perspectives that is challenging yet inviting.
Professors and group leaders can use this tool to guide these deep and at times very uncomfortable conversations and differences of opinion in safe space atmospheres without the fear of backlash due to the perception of a position. Incorporating hip-hop lyrics from an artist such as Tupac can aid in the growth of what we have in common and better understand what we don’t have in common in a more meaningful way.
The Review
This was an insightful and compelling read. The author did an incredible job of balancing the musical component of Tupac Shakur’s lyrics with the artist’s words’ impact on the world as a whole. The idea of using Tupac’s music as a way of connecting us all was such an inspired idea, as the music found in these pages and the lyrics that go with each song made the reader stop to not only appreciate the music but genuinely reflect on what each of the lyrics meant overall.
One example of a song that stood out to me was Better Dayz, which spoke of the value of friendship, the struggles communities face, and the need to keep one’s faith in a brighter and better tomorrow in the face of true adversity. The author connected the lyrics by showcasing how the song was meant to be viewed, as a communication between two friends, and by analyzing the lyrics to show the more profound meaning readers can feel and hold onto emotionally and mentally.
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The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging author Desiree Carpenter’s “Let’s Talk About It” is a must-read nonfiction and social book. The deep and impactful lyrics and how they speak to the need to bridge the gap between people of different backgrounds made this a compelling read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
