Tag: nonfiction

Releasing Religion: A Minster’s Wife Goes Rogue by Gaye Kick 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. 

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Author Gaye Kick shares her story of marrying her musician boyfriend, only to become a young minster’s wife instead and the long path it took to find her own spiritual path that resonated with her in the book “Releasing Religion: A Minster’s Wife Goes Rogue”.

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The Synopsis

She was the proverbial good girl, obeying all the rules and expectations of others—until she took control and changed the rules.

Gaye was an optimistic college music major when she agreed to marry her senior music major boyfriend after his graduation. She never expected that before their wedding, he would upend his career and toss her unprepared into the role of a minister’s wife at age eighteen.

But the people-pleaser in Gaye is compelled to stand by his side, even if it means living in a fishbowl where the expectations of others disrupt her sense of self. Gaye walks this path that was never meant to be hers for fifteen years before beginning to realize that only by reclaiming her identity can she unleash her inner power and become the unstoppable force she was meant to be.

In a relatable and moving account of overcoming obstacles, Gaye Kick provides an eye-opening peek into the ups and downs of a clergy wife who yearns for a spiritual path that resonates with her soul. Her story will inspire other seekers to examine beliefs hindering them from living the life they desire so they, too, can go on an incredible journey of breaking free.

Releasing Religion is an honest, heartfelt memoir. If you like engaging narratives, funny self-reflection, and journeys of discovery, then you’ll love Gaye Kick’s uplifting search for freedom and identity.

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The Review

This was both informative and engaging for readers. The author did an incredible job of capturing the raw emotion of having to endure a life that never quite felt like the life you imagined yourself living and adding humor and charm to the writing to bring readers into the author’s story. The insight and relatability of the author’s story really help readers resonate with the author on both an emotional and social level.

The thing that drew me into this narrative was the author’s perspective on this topic. As someone who grew up with a religious parent and years spent in religious schools, and having left organized religion; as a result, it was so fascinating to see (or read) from the perspective of someone who married into the religion and spent their childhood with that religion as well. The way the author captured the struggles the faith can bring upon those who live within it so closely was fascinating and heartbreaking to read, yet the author’s story inspires hope within the reader.

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The Verdict

Heartfelt, compelling, and engaging author Gaye Kick’s “Releasing Religion” is a must-read memoir and nonfiction read. The memorable story the author’s life became and the knowledge that readers will gain as they see through the eyes of a minister’s wife, as well as the empowering message the author’s story inspires, will keep readers enthralled. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Gaye Kick graduated from the University of Illinois Springfield, where she studied writing under novelist and children’s book author Jaqueline Dougan Jackson. She writes humorous short stories about finding balance and inspiration as she navigates the highway of life. In addition, Gaye is a talented pianist, singer, and songwriter specializing in new thought music. Explore her work at www.gayellenkick.com

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Is He Ever Going to Leave His Wife?: The Answers to the Questions You Desperately Want to Know by Martess A Dowling 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. 

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Author Martess A Dowling shares the guidance and help that women who find themselves in relationships with married men need to hear in order to become clearer and more empowered in the book “Is He Ever Going to Leave his Wife?: The Answers to the Questions You Desperately Want to Know”.

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The Synopsis

Are you the ‘Other Women’, stuck in a relationship with a married man?

Do you desperately want to know if he is ever going to leave his wife?

This book will help you answer the many burning questions you have about your relationship with a married man so that you can be clearer, calmer, and empowered, ready to take responsibility for your life and achieve the happiness you deserve.

In her work as a tarot reader, author Martess Dowling heard one question far more than any other: ‘Is he ever going to leave his wife?’ After hearing this time and time again, she began to see just how widespread this type of situation was and was compelled to dive deeper into the world of the’ other woman’, to discover the reasons behind the why. Her conversations uncovered some startling truths, exposing the reality of living in the shadows, in a constant state of yearning while the married man returns to his wife. Martess also discovered that the majority of these women suffered in silence, with few supports available to them. Unable to share the affair with anyone, they stayed alone, waiting and hoping that things would change and one day they could be together.

These heart-wrenching stories prompted Martess to research further in an effort to provide some hope and guidance to the many other women out there who are struggling. It was clear that there was a need for sound advice and practical solutions – and Is He Ever Going to Leave His Wife? The Answers to Questions You Desperately Want to Know was born.

In this unique and groundbreaking book, Martess offers a step-by-step guide to addressing the key issues within your situation. Covering a broad array of topics, from grief and obsession to narcissistic behavior and polyamorous relationships, Martess unpacks the plight of the ‘other women’. Written in an accessible and easy-to-follow way, you will learn how to make decisions to progress and empower your life so that you’re not just waiting for him to take that step out of his marriage. With handy quick reference guides sharing the telltale signs to look for if he intends to commit to you, along with the danger signs that point to a lifetime of pain, this must-read book is your pathway from confusion to clarity.

If you are stuck in a relationship with a married man, this practical guide will give you the strategies and confidence you need to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics of his relationship with his wife and with you. It will equip you with the tools you need to stop yourself from obsessing about him and start making sound choices for yourself, so you can finally move forward in your recovery journey with a clear understanding of where you stand in the relationship.

If you need direction or answers, this book is for you. It may be hard to read, but the truth will set you free, allowing you to achieve the happiness and security you deserve.

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The Review

This was a thoughtful and engaging read. So many relationship books take time to focus on the ideal pairings that society has given us, such as a husband and wife or boyfriend and girlfriend. But romance is so much more complex than that, and the relationships we find ourselves in are not always fairytale endings. When relationships involving “the other woman” are examined, the other woman is often viewed from a more sinister point of view, as if they were always the core instigators of this tangled web of lies and deceit. Rarely, if ever, is it shown how these women are also part of that web of lies and lied to and used themselves by these men, until this book that is.

The author’s use of humor and wit in the book’s writing style helps alleviate some of the heavier subject matter within the book. The way the author examines everything from how women get into these types of relationships to what drives the men’s behavior in this relationship and so much more allows the reader to feel both connected to the author’s work and the emotional and mental toll that being caught up in this type of relationship can do to a person. 

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The Verdict

Memorable, authentic, and engaging author Martess A. Dowling’s “Is He Ever Going to Leave His Wife?” is a must-read nonfiction book on relationships and what life is like for “the other woman.” The insight and heart that goes into the author’s work and the layered analysis of these relationships will resonate with many women. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Born in Malta in 1961, and two years later immigrated to Australia to the seaside suburb of Glenelg with her parents, this is where she loved to watch the activity along the beach and developed a fascination with people. Throughout her early school life, she loved to draw, be creative and organize school plays. She became involved in the school newspaper in high school, and encouraged by Mrs Jerome, her love of writing grew.  

Martess had a beautiful baby boy after she and Alan moved to Adelaide. When he began school, she worked in retail, on a tarot line, sewing wedding dresses, then became a marriage celebrant and loved every second. She still writes and lives a spiritual life with her husband in their beach suburb home with their beloved cats, Dalia Grace and Pip Saru. 

NeuroMastery: Retraining Your Brain to Conquer Anxiety, Fear, and Panic Attacks by Ugochukwu Uche MS, LPC 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 Ugochukwu Uche MS, LPC offers readers a guide through the brain’s anatomy and what drives people to fear and anxiety in the book “NeuroMastery: Retraining Your Brain to Conquer Anxiety, Fear, and Panic Attacks”.

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The Synopsis

Based on the latest research on cognitive neuroscience and counseling psychology research, this book offers a comprehensive guide to reshaping your brain’s response to anxiety, fear, and panic attacks. You will learn about the brain’s anatomy, the path that stress takes through your brain, and how negative thought patterns contribute to anxiety and fear.

This book also introduces effective cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness techniques, and lifestyle modifications to manage anxiety. Learn how to face your fears through exposure and desensitization and discover how resilience and positive change can be nurtured by understanding and harnessing neuroplasticity.

“NeuroMastery: Retraining Your Brain to Conquer Anxiety, Fear, and Panic Attacks” is more than just a book—it is a roadmap to a calmer, more controlled, and resilient life.

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The Review

This was a thought-provoking and engaging read. The author does an incredible job of presenting research and understanding surrounding these subjects. As someone who has struggled with anxiety off and on throughout my life, having the author share the connections made in our minds to fear and how we can reshape our understanding and acceptance of those fears to work through our anxiety in a much more effective way.

The way the author bridged the gap between biology and psychology was also excellent to see. Seeing the physical impacts that can cause our brains to process these fears and emotions made the book feel more strategic and thoughtful in its approach. The author also presents these ideas and practices to the reader very efficiently, allowing the reader to absorb this information for themselves and leaving room for more research down the road.

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The Verdict

Anxiety and fear can impact us in numerous ways, from struggling through loss and grief to the financial instability that the loss of a job can present. Author Ugochukwu Uche MS, LPC’s “NeuroMastery: Retraining Your Brain to Conquer Anxiety, Fear, and Panic Attacks” made this a compelling must-read nonfiction book. The education and insight this book provides, as well as the moving direction the author brings the themes of this book to by connecting biology with psychology, make this a one-of-a-kind book that is not to be missed. Be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Ugo is a psychotherapist with 22 years of experience. He is the author of two psychology-based self-help books to date. The first is Anger Management 101, and the second is NeuroMastery: Retraining Your Brain to Conquer Anxiety, Fear, and Panic Attacks. He is currently in private practice, and the name of his practice is, Road 2 Resolutions PLLC, and he has been in private practice since 2009.

The Brink: A Memoir by Jaime Andrews Review

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

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Author Jamie Andrews takes a witty yet emotional journey into her adolescence in the book “The Brink: A Memoir”.

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The Synopsis

Andrews unblinkingly delivers this tale of her troubled adolescence, detailing her descent into depression, promiscuity, drugs and institutionalization – all before the age of 18. Told from the point of view of a teenage sociopath, The Brink is funny, harrowing, lurid and absolutely true.

A deep, dark look at growing up in 90s suburbia, The Brink is eminently relatable to the ostracized youth of today, those who have been there, and those who enjoy gawking at car wrecks.

Jaime Andrews has been a comedic commentator (TruTV’s World’s Dumbest), an album cover-girl (My Chemical Romance), a columnist (Backstage, New Thinking), a commercial queen, a theater manager and, most recently, an award-winning filmmaker (Division). Way before that, though, she was the big mess you’ll find in these pages.

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The Review 

What immediately struck me when reading this incredible book was the depth of honesty and the casual tone in which the author wrote. The steady progression from teenage outbursts to more steady streams of depression and the harrowing experiences in institutions allowed the reader to connect with the author and their life. 

The way the author organized this memoir was terrific. The book takes readers through her life as she experienced it, allowing the reader to feel the buildup, tension, and shocking events as they unfolded. The emotional weight of these experiences perfectly underscored the witty and direct writing style and speaks to the harsh realities that many young people face every day. 

The Verdict 

Poignant, concise, yet emotionally compelling and incredibly witty, author Jamie Andrew’s “The Brink” is a must-read memoir. The heart and charm that went into the writing of this story and the inspiring way her story reached out to others who have experienced similar events made this a remarkable story to get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to check out this book today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

On the outskirts of popular culture for over 20 years, Jaime Andrews started acting professionally at the age of 12 at Arena Playhouse on Long Island. Best known for her work as a comedic commentator on TruTV’s World’s Dumbest, she has been a billboard model (Stoli), an album cover-girl (My Chemical Romance), a columnist (Backstage, New Thinking), a commercial queen (she shipped her pants for K-mart and has hung out with the Geico gecko and Chester Cheetah, among dozens of others), a theater manager (Sacred Fools) and, most recently, an award-winning filmmaker (Division, now available on several platforms). She was a recurring Guest Star on Good Girls Revolt, whose premature cancellation started an online firestorm at the dawn of the Me Too movement.

Jaime’s memoir, The Brink – about her tumultuous teen years – will be published in 2023, and she has several projects in the works through her production company, jaimation. She is also working on a graphic novel, Cookie & the Monster, adapted from her play which won best show in the Ensemble Theatre category at the 2015 Hollywood Fringe Festival.

http://www.jaimeandrews.com/

Conquering Imposter Syndrome (A Guide to Job Fulfillment and Getting Back on the Path to Career Success) by Anne Galloway 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. 

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Author Anne Galloway shares the tips and lessons that can help anyone suffering from imposter syndrome overcome their anxieties in the book “Conquering Imposter Syndrome”.

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The Synopsis

Are you struggling with Imposter Syndrome – the feelings of insecurity, inadequacy, and just not being good enough – and believe it’s holding back your career?

Do you want to overcome those feelings, feel more confident in your abilities to do your job, and become more in control of your career success?

Know that you are not alone in this. Imposter Syndrome is very common among many high achievers including famous celebrities like Michelle Obama, Lady Gaga, and Tom Hanks. Like them, you too can unlock your potential, become the best version of yourself, and achieve career success by overcoming this psychological pattern.

In this book, certified career coach Anne Galloway shares actionable strategies based on research and personal experience working with people from diverse career backgrounds, many of whom have suffered from Imposter Syndrome.

Learn about:

  • The common types of Imposter Syndrome
  • What can cause Imposter Syndrome at work
  • 5 key strategies to overcoming Imposter Syndrome at work
  • Lots of ways to boost your confidence
  • And a whole lot more, all backed up with case studies

Don’t let Imposter Syndrome hold you back – start reading now!

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The Review

The author did a truly unique and powerful job of capturing the heart of imposter syndrome. The way the author approaches this subject is what sets this book apart, as not only does the author appeal to those who suffer from this in a professional setting, but speaks from a more personal perspective. The author doesn’t approach the topic from a mental health professional perspective, but rather from someone who has lived this struggle and seeks to help others through lessons she learned herself. 

The way the author breaks down imposter syndrome overall, as well as the guided steps that she took to overcome this, made this book so compelling. The author not only lays out 5 key steps to take when confronting imposter syndrome but looks to conquer a fear of failure and build the self-confidence a person needs in order to face this syndrome.

The Verdict

Authentic, honest, and engaging, author Anne Galloway’s “Conquering Imposter Syndrome” is a must-read nonfiction book and guide on facing our doubts and gaining the tools needed to overcome the imposter syndrome many people face in their lives. Whether it was calling upon famous people who have dealt with this syndrome or it was the honest writing style the author employed, this quickly became a must-read for anyone struggling with this. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Anne Galloway is a Certified Advanced Resume Writer, Certified Employment Interview Consultant, and Careers Coach with an ICF approved Certificate in Career Coaching Practice. Like many of her clients, she has experienced multiple crossroads that forced her to re-think how she could create a meaningful career.

During the past 15+ years that she has helped ambitious and motivated people like you successfully navigate the career challenges they were facing and get the job they wanted, Anne has won several awards for her work as both a resume writer and careers coach.

Anne works with people across many career stages, industries, and geographical locations to navigate career success, helping them return to work after a career break, make a complete career change or accelerate their current career.

When not working, Anne enjoys hill walking and Pilates.

Follow Anne:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegalloway1/

https://www.facebook.com/powertochange.eu

https://www.instagram.com/anne.e.galloway/

https://power-to-change.eu/

Infectious Injustice: The True Story of Survival and Loss Against Corruption, the COVID-19 Disaster inside of San Quentin, and the Dumpster Fire that is Known as Mass Incarceration by Justin Cook Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

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

Author Justin Cook shares the harrowing experiences inside of the prison system he endured during the COVID-19 pandemic in the book “Infectious Injustice”.

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The Synopsis

A secret preview into the treacherous journey of a man thrown from a successful life in Silicon Valley into the dark asphyxiating prison of San Quentin, with murders, serial killers, rats, and COVID around every corner. This true story is told by an inmate who was inside, living and breathing in the system of incarceration for nearly two years. He paints a masterpiece of detail by challenging the stigma that prisoners are less than people, that law enforcement is superior, and that the system of incarceration in the United States is still functioning. You will join him in the cell while he recounts hunger strikes, malnutrition, panic, and pandemonium, by weaving comedic banter with a stoic sense of realism. This is a captivating tale of how sick and dying men, caused by the nationally publicized disaster of thirty deaths in a short period in the prison, stitched together the remnants of their shattered dignity and formed a brotherhood to withstand all odds; it paints the solo journey of a man’s struggle through addiction, loss, corruption, oppression, racism, and fear. You won’t put down this enthralling and uttering engrossing saga of survival, a triumphant testament to the endurance of the human spirit, loyalty, respect, and the fallacy of rehabilitation while incarcerated.

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The Review

This was an impactful and gripping read. The juxtaposition of the author’s life before in Silicon Valley and the hardships they endured while in prison were dramatic and engaging, allowing the reader to feel the depth of the author’s harrowing journey. The humor and wit the author infuses throughout the book into the writing allows the reader to feel the honesty of the author’s story.

The heart of the narrative was the advanced look into the complex life of a prisoner in mass incarceration, as well as the way prisons handled the COVID-19 pandemic. The harsh reality of the treatment and corruption that runs through the prison system, as well as the strength and resilience it takes to endure and survive that environment, made this a thought-provoking journey.

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The Verdict

Thoughtful, engaging, and memorable, author Justin Cook’s “Infectious Injustice” is a must-read nonfiction read. The shocking and at times emotional experiences that the author brings to light the overall harsh truths that become a profound platform for prison reform as a whole and the impact that the pandemic had on the prison system as a whole made this a mandatory read for those looking for an inside perspective of this system overall. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

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Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Justin Cook was born in Nevada. He’s a technical architect who has worked at the most prestigious companies and holds over fifty technical certifications, including top-tier status among the technical community worldwide. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Spanish literature, a master’s in information systems, and is pursuing a PhD in information systems. He also taught at a college in Nevada and was a faculty member in the information technology department. He is a marathon runner who has also stupidly run with the bulls in Pamplona, twice. He speaks four languages, which he developed while living abroad in Spain, France, and Germany. He has traveled to over thirty countries, which translates to he doesn’t know how to save money. He enjoys teaching Kenpo, where he holds a black belt, playing piano, snowboarding, and hiking. He is much better at being divorced than he was at being married. He is a father of rambunctious kids who enjoy reminding him that he is no longer cool and is gaining weight. He now lives in a house free of bars that is made for naps, reading books, and drinking too much coffee. Most days, you will find him lounging in his Kirkland sweats from Costco, writing, where he transports readers to a place where bold heroes have endearing flaws, as he broadly addresses the human experience. The swashbuckling action-adventure Infectious Injustice is his first novel.

https://amazon.com/Infectious-Injustice-Survival-Corruption-Incarceration/dp/B0CKC1PVP9/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Ride On! Dame Sarah Storey’s Extraordinary Journey of Triumph: How to Unleash the Power Within, Push Boundaries, and Champion Excellence by S.A. Sterling 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. 

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Author S.A. Sterling shares the powerful and inspiring story of Dame Sarah Storey in the book “Ride On!”. 

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The Synopsis 

From surmounting a career-ending injury to thriving in a male-dominated sport, ‘Ride On! Dame Sarah Storey’s Extraordinary Journey of Triumph’ offers a story that goes beyond athletic accomplishment—it’s a masterclass in resilience and personal growth.

Feel stuck in life, burdened by challenges and self-doubt?

This book is your roadmap to breaking free.

Reading ‘Ride On!’ you’ll gain:

• Self-Belief: Harness confidence as your driving force.

• Resilience: Equip yourself with tools to face life’s challenges head-on.

• Adaptability: Learn to pivot your way to success, just like Sarah.

S.A. Sterling captures the indomitable spirit of Dame Sarah Storey, making ‘Ride On!’ a must-read for sports aficionados and anyone inspired by human resilience.

Penned by S.A. Sterling, an author committed to narratives of triumph over adversity, ‘Ride On!’ isn’t just a biography—it’s a guide to unlocking your untapped potential.

As you turn the pages, you won’t just find a compelling story, but actionable insights to elevate you from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

Are you ready to complete your picture?

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The Review

This was a truly inspiring and memorable read. The author did an incredible job of capturing the life of this compelling athlete and showcasing the struggles that became hurdles to jump over in life. The balance of straightforward information with the subtlety of the inspirational themes inspires the reader throughout this book.

The heart of this book rests in the book’s subject, Dame Sarah Storey. The emotional weight of the athlete’s journey, as well as the way the author was able to frame the life of Dame Sarah Storey from both her inspirational tale and the everyday life experiences she carried as both a mother and a wife, made this feel relatable and engaging from a reader’s perspective. The imagery and atmosphere that the author provides allow the reader to feel transported to these pivotal moments in the reader’s life.

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The Verdict

Heartfelt, engaging, and inspiring, author S.A. Sterling’s “Ride On!” is a must-read biography and nonfiction book. The way the author showcases the strength to overcome diversity and the success that a woman can find in a male-dominated field makes this a gripping true story that is not to be missed. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Meet S. A. Sterling, a storyteller on a mission to inspire hearts and minds across the globe. With a Master’s Degree in Foreign Language and a passion for storytelling, S. A. Sterling embraces the beauty of communication through her multilingual skills, effortlessly connecting with people from diverse cultures.

Beyond her academic achievements lies a genuine passion for making a difference. As a devoted language teacher, S. A. Sterling empowers her students to explore new horizons and appreciate the power of words. Sterling weaves together a tapestry of inspiration which transcends language barriers and touches the hearts of many across the globe.

S. A. Sterling’s thirst for knowledge and passion for personal growth extends beyond her writing desk. She is an avid reader who constantly seeks out inspiring stories that fuel her imagination and ignite her own desire to make a difference in the world. Inspired by the extraordinary journey of Dame Sarah Storey, S. A. Sterling began writing a transformative tale of triumph. Instead of simply recounting achievements, she sought to capture the essence of courage and resilience that defines Dame Sarah’s life.

Through Ride On! Dame Sarah Storey’s Extraordinary Journey of Triumph: How to Unleash the Power Within, Push Boundaries, and Champion Excellence, S. A. Sterling’s heartfelt goal is to uplift and empower readers. She wishes to guide them on a journey of self-discovery in hopes that every reader will find their own courage to break free from limitations and embrace their unique path to greatness. S. A. Sterling invites you to explore the awe-inspiring life of Dame Sarah Storey—a journey that transcends boundaries, redefines greatness, and celebrates the beauty of the human spirit.

https://www.sasterling.com/

The 57-Year-Old Promise by Del Hickman 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. 

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Author Del Hickman shares the story of the child that he and his wife found a home for, and the journey through adoption in the book “The 57-Year-Old Promise”.

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The Synopsis

57 years after praying over a three-day-old baby, a teenage couple found out how God marvelously, more than they ever could have expected, actually DID answer that prayer! From conception, to birth, through childhood to adulthood, and finally to reunion. A true life story that will keep your attention from beginning to ending!

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The Review

This was a heartfelt and emotional read. The author did a wonderful job of finding the right balance between the personal aspects of the adoption process while also infusing their faith and emotional state during the entire journey. The fast pace of the narrative and the engaging writing style really held the reader’s attention greatly.

The heart of this narrative was the family connection that was found within the author’s story. The connection between the author and his wife, and the exploration of the adoption process and beyond, made this such a compelling read. The importance of faith and the way their journey brought them together years later with the child they brought into the world was a heartfelt connection that readers will be able to make with the author’s story.

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The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author Del Hickman’s “The 57-Year-Old Promise” is a must-read nonfiction book of faith and adoption. The sheer volume of detail the author was able to bring into such a short read, and the emotional weight of the author’s journey will keep readers invested in this powerful read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Currently a Realtor in San Diego, I’ve been married to Donna for 58 years and have 3 wonderful children and 5 unbelievable grandchildren plus 2 great-grandchildren. Jesus is the center of our family and we have been blessed! I hope our story might strengthen your faith and give you great hope!

http://www.57yearoldpromise.com/

Trainer X by Jackson Cooper Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

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 Jackson Cooper shares the experiences and memories of his time as a personal trainer in his book “Trainer X: My Career as your Personal Trainer: Warning: You Might Be in This Book”. 

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The Synopsis 

“If you’ve got breath to bitch, then you’ve got breath to keep going.”

This was my motto if you trained with me during my 13 years as a personal trainer.

This book was written with the soul intent of recapping my career in the Health and Fitness industry, and it allows you into the mind of one personal trainer. This book has it all: sex, how you, yourself are seen in the gym, fitness stories about clients, mistakes, career choices, rich people, poor people…

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What started out as a dream of living in the gym, playing instead of working, becoming muscularly aesthetic, being more attractive to the opposite sex, and being lean and useful in every capacity, would inevitably lead to one burnt out individual. The weird thing is, I don’t feel as though I am alone in this. I believe that the people in the fitness industry all aspire to help people at the onset, but then get lost along the way because of their relationships with their clients.

This book will probably not be the next “Trainer How-To” book. Therefore, it will probably not be memorialized by health and fitness gurus for decades to come.

I was worth the money, and I still believe that I am. Even after “retiring” from the industry, I dipped my toe back into the frigid waters of training, only to retract, shake my head, and say, “Nope, no more.”

Please enjoy the book, as it is meant to entertain and enlighten, but you may want to take my experiences and advice with a grain of salt. I did not leave the industry feeling all well and good about it. The saying goes “Everything ends badly, or else it would not end at all.”

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The Review

This was such a unique and fascinating nonfiction read. The author gave such an original and personal viewpoint on a field that is rarely looked at from any lens other than self-help and personal growth fields. The detail and the imagery that the author’s experiences and stories conjure up really allow the reader to feel transported to these moments.

The heart of the author’s book rested in the honest approach to the subject matter, as well as the balance of humor and tragedy that made up the author’s career as a personal trainer. The way people’s personalities and behavior changes when entering a gym setting and the way trainers are looked upon as not only a trainer but almost like a person’s personal therapist in a way, made the author’s personal stories feel more vibrant and alive on the page.

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The Verdict 

Insightful, engaging, and illuminating, author Jackson Cooper’s “Trainer“ is a must-read nonfiction book. The engaging narrative and the honest approach to the subject matter will give readers a new and original perspective on the personal training field that will both fascinate and shock readers to their core. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10 

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