Tag: nonfiction

The Shadow of Wealth: Mastering the Millionaire Mindset Through Shadow Work by Alex Brent 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 Alex Brent shares the psychological and emotional insights that lie hidden in a person’s mind, shaping their financial path in the book “The Shadow of Wealth.”

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The Synopsis

Some people have millions, while others live paycheck to paycheck, wondering what they’re doing wrong. It feels unfair, doesn’t it?

But lasting wealth isn’t just about working more. The most successful people have done something most never think to do — they’ve faced what’s hidden beneath the surface and taken control from the inside out.

What if the reason you’re not wealthy… lives in the shadow of your own mind?

There’s more than enough abundance to go around. And the untapped power to create the life you want is already within you — waiting to be unlocked.

This book is your key.


Mastering the Millionaire Mindset through Shadow Work leads you on a journey into the forgotten corners of your psyche — where beliefs, fears, and hidden emotional wounds quietly shape your financial destiny.

You’ll uncover the “shadow code” — the unconscious forces that block your success and drain your power. As you unravel them, you’ll begin to rewrite your story — not just with goals or affirmations, but with truth, courage, and radical inner transformation.

This isn’t just another “success manual.”


It’s an immersive, poetic initiation. A deeply personal journey where your shadow speaks — and for the first time, you listen.

As you meet the characters within and reveal buried truths, you’ll feel a shift. Not just in mindset, but in reality. This is where true wealth begins: from the inside out.

Most success books tell you what to do. This book shows you why you haven’t been able to do it — until now.


It’s not about more action. It’s about reclaiming your power.

You won’t just read this book — you’ll live it. And you’ll emerge different.

The shadow has waited long enough.

Click “Buy Now” and begin the journey. Your future self will thank you — in every currency.

The Review

What a truly insightful and engaging read. The author did an incredible job of laying out the inner struggles that a person faces, and that often prevent them from achieving the financial success they crave. The author takes a unique approach to discussing these problems; rather than using straightforward tactics and strategies, the author reveals how the deeper, more personal insecurities and self-sabotage that we often exhibit can be the cause of our own downfalls and struggles to achieve the financial freedom we crave.

What stood out to me was the way the author presented these ideas to the reader. Rather than merely coaching or preparing a strategy, the author lays out the lessons they learned from this shadow work by creating prompts and archetypes through characters that speak directly to the reader. From The Visionary and The Trickster to the Alchemist and the Shadow, these characters delve into the deepest parts of a person and their struggles, and then showcase the paths they take to achieve success directly. This creative and inventive narrative effectively conveys the lessons the author learned, keeping the reader engaged throughout.

The Verdict

Insightful, engaging, and memorable, author Alex Brent’s “The Shadow of Wealth” is a must-read blend of nonfiction inspiration, business strategies, and fictional prose and poetry. The creativity and inspirational narratives found within drive home the lessons and empowering nature of finding success that entrepreneurs, creative individuals, and coaches can utilize in their careers and journey moving forward. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

My name is Alex.

By day, I work in IT, but beyond my job, I have a deep passion for Jungian psychology and writing. I love expressing my thoughts and sharing powerful insights – and nothing lights me up more than hearing how those ideas have helped others grow or shift something in their lives.

I’m especially interested in the topic of wealth. And I’ll be honest – I feel no shame about it. Wanting more, desiring abundance, and striving to live your best life is a good thing. (Even if many of us were taught to feel guilty about it.)

At one point in my journey, I realized I was on a meaningful path toward building real wealth. That’s when I felt I had something valuable to share—something honest and hard-earned about how wealth is actually created.

But just to be clear: it hasn’t come from any magic trick or overnight success. It’s been the old-fashioned way – through years of working, creating, investing, and selling. It’s taken over 15 years, and the journey is still unfolding.

And honestly?

I believe it could have happened much faster if I had met my Shadow earlier.

Once I experienced the power of shadow work firsthand, I couldn’t keep it to myself. My creative side wouldn’t let me. I felt this undeniable urge to share what I had learned—in my own way, in my own voice.

https://shadow-of-wealth.com/

Woven as One by William R. Waddell 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. 

Author William R. Waddell shares the experiences and stories that kept him and his partner, Linda, together in a strong and healthy relationship for over three decades in the book “Woven as One.”

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The Synopsis

Even good relationships (particularly marriages) have temperatures, varying from almost unbearable passion to steady devotion to uncertainty or worse. Woven as One recounts the successes and foibles of a nearly sixty-five-year bond between two lifelong partners, describing the magic that can come of truly merging the humdrum of everyday life with their feelings for each other. Bill and Linda “met” under somewhat unusual circumstances, and their way of dealing with bumps in their road wasn’t always by the book, but they grew to understand that real intimacy often grows more out of sharing prosaic experiences than out of grand gestures, and they learned to appreciate the importance of things like hard work (together or apart), inclusion, genuine tolerance, and the sheer chemistry between two kindred spirits.

The Review

This was such a personal, intimate, and compelling nonfiction read. The author did an excellent job of writing in a way that felt almost conversational, as if the stories and experiences found in this book were shared over a drink or two after dinner with friends. The detail the author put into not only the shared experiences he had with his late wife, Linda, but also into the era and settings their journey took them, was so vivid that it allowed the reader to feel transported in time as the book progressed.

The honesty with which the author conveyed these experiences not only showcased the deep love and affection he and Linda had for one another but also how they found a way to live truthfully and boldly for every moment. The author’s life with his late wife is infused with humor and heart, and even in the moments following her loss, a sense of hope and celebration for the life they lived together lingers in the air, serving as a tribute to the enduring love that transcends everything, even death.

The Verdict

Heartfelt, thoughtfully portrayed, and engaging, author William R. Waddell’s “Woven as One” is a must-read nonfiction memoir that doubles as a love story. The way the author lovingly looks back on the life he and his wife shared, and the way they faced both trials and adventures together, will keep readers both emotionally invested and engaged in the author’s story until the book’s final pages. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

William R. Waddell grew up in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, and earned degrees from Williams College and the University of Virginia School of Law. Over a 50-year career with McGuireWoods, he practiced business law in Richmond and Norfolk, holding leadership roles within the firm and representing it internationally. He also served as an adjunct professor at UVA Law, teaching Alternative Dispute Resolution and authoring a casebook for his course. His prior publications include Virginia Practice, Business Entities, a legal treatise for business lawyers.

Now retired, Bill enjoys supporting charitable causes, reading, walking, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. He is the proud father of three sons. His debut book, Woven as One, is a tribute to his late wife, Linda, and a reflection on life, love, and resilience.

https://www.williamrwaddell.com/

Interview with Author Ronan Keene

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

I’m an avid golfer with over 30 years of experience in the game, and I’ve always been passionate about sharing my love for golf and helping others improve. Over the years, I’ve seen how mental and strategic elements of the game can make all the difference, which led me to start writing about golf more seriously. Smart Golf – Play Golf More Intelligently is the culmination of my experiences and insights, meant to help players not only with their skills but also with their mindset. I’ve always had a knack for breaking down complex ideas into simpler, actionable steps, and that’s really what fueled my transition into writing. Over time, I realized I wanted to share what I’d learned — not just about the swing, but about thinking your way around the course. That’s what led me into writing.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

The inspiration for Smart Golf – Play Golf More Intelligently came from my own journey as a golfer. I’ve spent years working on both the mental and strategic side of the game, and I saw a real gap in resources for golfers who wanted to improve their mental game alongside their technique. I realized that too many golfers focus only on physical skills, missing out on the mental strategies that can elevate their game. My book provides practical advice, mental game techniques, and strategies to help golfers at all levels perform their best, not just physically but mentally.I’ve seen so many golfers — beginners and experienced players alike — struggle not because of their mechanics, but because they don’t have a clear game plan or mental strategy. Smart Golf – Play Golf More Intelligently was born out of the idea that you don’t need a perfect swing to play better golf. You need better decisions, better habits, and a smarter approach. I wanted to create a book that’s approachable, practical, and even a little inspiring — something that helps players enjoy the game more and score better.

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

The central message of Smart Golf is that golf is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. I want readers to understand that by improving their mental approach — whether it’s focusing on the right strategies or managing emotions on the course — they can unlock a whole new level of performance. Golf is about making smart decisions, staying calm under pressure, and always thinking two or three shots ahead. This is the kind of thinking that transforms a good golfer into a great one.  As I state in the book, the great Bobby Jones ones said,”Golf is played mainly on a 5 and 1/2 inch course ….the space between your ears”.  In other words, master the mental game and you will achieve lower scores.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

Golf instruction and strategy books have always fascinated me. But I noticed a gap between highly technical guides and books that speak to the everyday golfer. I wanted to bridge that gap — to create something thoughtful, accessible, and focused on real improvement. This genre allows me to combine personal experience, practical advice, and a bit of storytelling in a way that can truly help readers.  I’m in the process of writing a second book that delves deeply around the emotional aspects of the game; for example, how to summon courage under pressure, grace in sportsmanship, determination and the sheer will to achieve etc. Golf requires both physical skill and mental acuity, and I wanted to write something that could truly help people with both aspects in Smart Golf and later with my second book.

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

So far, Tiktok has been the most helpful — it’s a great platform for connecting with golf enthusiasts, sharing bite-sized tips, and showcasing visuals from the book. It allows for a more personal connection with readers and has helped grow interest organically. I’ve also started using LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook Groups to engage with golfers through a marketing campaign.

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

Start with a clear purpose. Know why you’re writing your book — not just what it’s about. That purpose will guide you through the moments when motivation dips. Also, don’t wait for everything to be perfect — clarity comes through writing. And finally, think of your readers. What do they need? What will they feel when they finish your book? That mindset changes everything.

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

I’m really excited about the future! I’m currently working on a follow-up book (discussed above) that dives deeper into golf’s mental game and offers more advanced strategies for competitive golfers. It will most likely be titled ‘Smart Golf II’  In addition, I’m exploring ways to expand the Smart Golf brand with online courses and tools to help golfers implement the strategies in the book. I’m always looking for new ways to help golfers perform their best, and I can’t wait to see where these next projects will take me.

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About the Author

Ronan Keene is a passionate golfer with over 30 years of experience playing the game. A lifelong student of golf strategy and course management, he has spent decades refining both the mental and physical sides of the sport. With a deep understanding of the challenges amateur golfers face, Ronan offers practical, real-world strategies to help others play smarter, lower their scores, and enjoy the game more. In Smart Golf, he shares clear, relatable advice that speaks to golfers of all skill levels—from weekend players to serious competitors. Ronan currently lives with his wife in Bluffton, SC near Hilton Head Island where great golf is never far away.

Interview with Author Nathaniel Malabonga

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

I was always a bookworm although I never thought I’d become an author. Because I’ve read so many books, I learned how to write reasonably well. But I mostly wrote essays and articles. It’s my first time writing a full-length book.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

I wanted to leave some sort of legacy behind. At the time, I also thought that it would be a good milestone achievement if I could publish a book by the time I was 50, which I did.

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

I want those who are feeling lost to realize that despite life not coming with an instruction manual, simply being here has meaning enough. Even if a gold coin sits forgotten in an attic, it doesn’t take away the intrinsic value of gold. And it’s the same with all of us.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I have many interests but I’m not really an expert in anything. Initially, I wondered how I could even write a book if that’s the case. Then I came upon The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck and came to realize that if there’s one thing in common, we all have a life to live. And you can always share your life experience with others, whether or not you’re an expert. And that’s what my book is all about.

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

So far, I’ve been mainly using Facebook.

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

If you have even just the germ of an idea, just roll with it. Just write. It’ll likely be messy at first, but it’s better than not expressing what’s trying to come out, like shaping a sculpture from a piece of rock. Just chisel away the rough parts bit by bit until it becomes coherent.

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

At the moment, I’m happy enough to have published a book at all. I’m not yet sure if this is a one-off or if there will be follow-up projects.

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About the Author

Nathaniel Malabonga grew up in Marikina City, Philippines. He is an avid gamer who plays tabletop roleplaying games and computer games. He also enjoys anime and manga. For a time, he was into airsoft and dabbled in various martial arts like arnis and BJJ. Eventually, he developed an interest in esoteric energy and healing systems like pranic healing and acupuncture.

A bookworm at heart, the first full-length book he read was the Bible and then Gone With The Wind before discovering Isaac Asimov’s The Foundation series, which ignited his interest in the sci-fi and fantasy genre.

https://a.co/3ssRHwG

Interview with T.M. DALIGGR

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


I’m T.M. Daliggr, a playful explorer of language and culture. Writing has always been my way to connect worlds—whether it’s through stories, humor, or breaking down generational slang. I got into writing because I love capturing the quirky and often hilarious ways people communicate, especially across different age groups.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?


Skibidi Ohio Rizz was inspired by the hilarious, baffling, and sometimes downright confusing slang I overheard between kids, teens, and adults trying to keep up with the newest lingo. I wanted to create a fun, approachable guide to help parents, teachers, and anyone curious decode Gen Z and Gen Alpha slang without feeling totally lost.

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


I hope readers walk away with a smile and a better understanding—that language is always evolving and staying curious and open-minded is the best way to connect across generations. Plus, it’s okay to laugh at yourself a little while learning something new!

4) What drew you into this particular genre?


I love humor and education wrapped into one. The idea of turning something as dynamic and playful as slang into an entertaining guidebook was irresistible. It’s a genre where I can bring levity to communication and help people bond through shared understanding.

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


Amazon has been great! Its vast, engaged reader community perfectly matches the vibe of Skibidi Ohio Rizz. Reviews and recommendations help bring the book’s spirit to life and reach curious readers. I’m also working on building a presence on TikTok to connect with even more fans through fun, creative videos.

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


Write what excites you—authenticity shines through. Don’t be afraid to experiment and blend genres. And most importantly, engage with your community; readers want to connect with the real you. Patience and persistence go a long way!

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


I’m cooking up more playful language guides and maybe diving into some creative fiction inspired by the same vibe. I have two middle-grade chapter books on the horizon that I hope to publish soon. There’s always new slang, memes, and cultural moments to capture, so expect more fun, fresh projects coming your way!

Interview with Karen Dustman

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

I’m probably like a lot of folks who love to read — I always loved words. I actually got my first paying writing job by accident. I wrote a series of articles for a small local newspaper about a fabulous 1920s hotel that used to be frequented by the movie stars from LA. The hotel was long-gone, but a local couple who used to work there was still around. So I interviewed them, wrote stories about their recollections of the hotel, and included their own love story (they’d met there and married, using a paper “ring” because they had no money!) I never expected to be paid for those stories; I just wrote them for fun. Several weeks later, the editor handed me a check and said the stories had gotten more comments than he’d ever had before — people loved the stories! So he felt I should be paid. It wasn’t much, but that was an eye-opener for me that I could tell stories people were eager to read!

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

I’ve wanted to write about Miami’s “Great Hurricane” for over 20 years. My dad lived through that terrifying storm when he was just ten years old. Other family members, too, would occasionally bring up the story. Sometime in the ’90s I began collecting original photographs, postcards, and other memorabilia from the storm. The era of personal photography had just begun to shine in the 1920s, so immediately after the hurricane swept through, hundreds or even thousands of people grabbed their little Brownie camera and went outside to snap pictures. Thousands of those photographs have survived, and they’re a fascinating first-hand look at the devastation from that storm. Commercial photographers, too, documented the storm. And wire news services sent photographers to Miami to document the rebuilding and relief efforts. I’ve collected hundreds of those photos, and always felt like “some day” they would become a book. And finally, last year, it just felt like it was time. The timing is really fortuitous, in a way. The “Great Hurricane” struck in September, 1926. Just one year from now, it’ll be exactly a century in the rearview mirror. Folks like my dad who actually lived through it are gone. It’s important that their stories will continue on. 

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

The thing that struck me the most, writing this book, was the way people pulled together in 1926 to meet the challenges of a completely unexpected disaster. There was no FEMA back then. But people across the country came together to rush relief to where it was needed. Trains were assembled with medical personnel, surgical supplies, nurses and medicines. The Red Cross organized food distribution and other relief, and set up vaccination stations against typhoid and yellow fever. People reached out to neighbors whose homes had been destroyed and offered their own houses for weeks at a time. Carpenters and tradesmen turned down paying restoration work, and instead helped repair houses in their own neighborhoods for no pay at all. Miami, too, managed to rally despite its terrible setbacks. . . the 1926 storm, and then the Great Depression that followed. If there’s a message in this book, it’s that even in the worst of times, the best of human nature often comes out. And even in disaster, there’s hope. 

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I’ve long been drawn to writing non-fiction history — this is probably my 30-something-est book in the genre. What’s most fascinating to me are always the people-stories. I’d always thought history was boring in high school. But when you dig into the personal sagas and struggles, that’s when history comes to life. A king who reigned from X date to Y date? Boring. A queen who was married off by her family before she was 16, to a husband who kicked her to the curb for failing to produce a male heir, then went on to marry a second king (who cheated on her). . . now, there’s a story! There’s similar real-life drama in my Hurricane book, including the first-person account of a man standing on a table as the water in his home keeps rising, eventually having to hang onto the chandelier. . . spoiler alert, he did survive!

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

Facebook and my own author newsletter have both been incredibly helpful in keeping me connected with readers. And those readers and their feedback are what keep me writing. 

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

My best advice to beginning writers is to just write. Pick a topic or a storyline that interests you, and go for it! And most of all, don’t let anyone’s critique or “helpful” words discourage you. Ignore all that. Just keep writing. 

About the Author

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Author Bio – Karen Dustman

(fiction pen name: Abby Rice):

Karen Dustman is the author of over 25 books ranging from non-fiction history to captivatig Southern mysteries. With multiple careers as a former criminal prosecutor, full-time freelance writer, and hands-on homebuilder, Karen swears by the joy of not always taking the straight-and-narrow path.  

Author Links:

Karen’s latest books (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Spring-Southern-Thriller-Van-Life-ebook/dp/B0DBFSDFNW/ 

eMail: kdustman21@gmail.com 

Websites: www.Clairitage.com (“Claire” + heritage), 

www.AbbyRiceAuthor.com and 

www.KarenDustman.com

Facebook Author Page: www.facebook.com/KarenDustmanAuthor

Facebook fiction (Abby) Page: www.facebook.com/AbbyRiceAuthor

X (Twitter): @KDustmanAuthor

Instagram: @AbbyRiceAuthor

Bookbub: @AbbyRice

Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/abby_rice

Rise and Thrive Above Cancer by Achim Zinggrebe, M.D. 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. 

Author Achim Zinggrebe, M.D., shares the experiences and practices that shaped their journey through their cancer diagnosis and the subsequent treatments in the book “Rise and Thrive Above Cancer.”

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The Synopsis

A cancer diagnosis changes life in an instant. There is the cancer itself, whose unpredictability triggers fear and feelings of powerlessness. And then there is the seemingly overwhelming medical system, which is often difficult to navigate.

It’s hard not to despair in such an existential situation. Achim Zinggrebe, M.D., a cancer survivor, knows this firsthand. He experienced firsthand how essential it is to take the reins when facing this challenge. Fighting his way out of profound hopelessness, he embraced new approaches and consciously shaped his path to recovery.

From these experiences, he developed a scientifically grounded, holistic, and customizable therapeutic concept. This approach combines alternative healing methods, conventional medical treatments, nutritional and exercise recommendations, and spiritual practices—because it’s not about choosing one or the other. It’s about creating a powerful synergy that addresses the body, mind, and soul as one.

This book is an energizing guide that redefines the meaning of health and the unique path each person can take toward it. A knowledgeable yet deeply compassionate companion for cancer patients and their loved ones, it offers support from the shock of diagnosis to the end of treatment—and far beyond.

The Review

Transformative and insightful, this book does a tremendous job of creating a guide and motivation for those struggling through the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other ailments. The author’s authenticity shines through on every page, with the book balancing the technical aspects of the author’s process of healing with the more personal and insightful experiences from their own life that helped create these guiding steps in the book. The research and detail that the author provided in this book were astounding, as the author’s journey and his revelation of the bleeding edge of cancer research and science were carefully backed up with medical studies, which helped balance out the more spiritual and holistic steps in the author’s process.

That is what made this book stand out from all the other books in this medical nonfiction, motivational style. The author’s interwoven process of both modern medical practices and holistic methods, as well as the role of mentality and spirituality in the entire healing process. The personal nature of this process, including the emotional component of struggling through the diagnosis and the various treatments, and how the author can help readers reclaim their sense of self and gain the strength needed to face this diagnosis, is so motivating and refreshing to see in a holistic, medically-driven book.

The Verdict

Insightful, compelling, and engaging, author Achim Zinggrebe’s “Rise and Thrive Above Cancer” is a must-read nonfiction book. The powerful mental and emotional therapeutic properties of an inspiring book such as this can have a profound impact on those struggling with a similar diagnosis, and the depth of research the author poured into this book gave readers a spark of hope and comfort in their journey of navigating this shocking experience. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Dr. Achim Zinggrebe, a medical doctor turned pharmaceutical professional, reassessed his approach to health after a cancer diagnosis in 2017. Once a staunch advocate of conventional medicine, he embraced a holistic view, integrating body, mind, and soul in healing. Through his Rise and Thrive Above Cancer Pathway, Achim supports cancer patients and their loved ones with scientifically backed methods that blend conventional and alternative medicine, nutrition, exercise, and spirituality. He provides guidance through books, online coaching, and resources to help individuals harness their self-healing potential. He lives with his family, dog, and cats near Weinsberg, Germany.

https://azinggrebemd.com/

Young Salt At Sixty by Deborah Hammett 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. 

Author Deborah Hammett shares the journey of adventure and self-discovery she found after retiring in the book “Young Salt At Sixty.”

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The Synopsis

Why settle for ordinary when you can make your retirement epic? This is your time to embrace adventure, push boundaries, and live your boldest dreams.

For Deborah Hammett, that dream didn’t reveal itself until after she retired from teaching on Martha’s Vineyard. Only then did she set her sights on an audacious new chapter—becoming a sailor. With her sharp wit and seasoned teaching skills, she not only masters the art of sailing but also guides and inspires fellow adventurers of all ages.

Join Deborah on her remarkable solo voyage from New England to the Southern Bahamas and back. Along the way, she conquers fears, navigates unexpected challenges, and reexamines long-held beliefs. Her journey is more than a sailing expedition—it’s a testament to the power of reinvention and the limitless possibilities that await when you dare to chase the horizon.

Why just retire when you can embark on the greatest adventure of your life?

This riveting tale of personal growth will:

  • Empower you with the courage to live your dream fully
  • Inspire you to confront your own biases
  • Captivate you as you join in an enthralling sailing adventure
  • Teach you the essential vocabulary and concepts the novice sailor must learn
  • Give you the courage to think young and become something completely new and different in your golden years

If you are interested in sailing, or in making a significant lifestyle change in retirement, you must
read Young Salt at Sixty.

The Review

This was an insightful and engaging read. The author did an excellent job of balancing the book with memoir-style storytelling, with insight into the world of sailing and so much more. The educational value and detail the author went into when discussing the world of sailing and how she was able to use her years as an educator to delve into the more technical aspects of sailing was engaging to get into for anyone with an interest in boating as a whole.

The book also perfectly brought an emotional component to this author’s story, showcasing the psychological and personal journey the author went on while confronting her fears, and embracing new challenges rather than feeling the need to slow down after retirement. This was a motivational message readers could get behind, speaking to the idea of embracing change and finding what makes us passionate in life. 

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, inspiring, and engaging, author Deborah Hammett’s “Young Salt at Sixty” is a must-read nonfiction book. The insight and educational value of the sailing experiences the author had were perfectly mirrored by the author’s emotional journey, and will resonate with many readers, both facing retirement and seeking the things that make us passionate for life again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Deborah Hammett grew up in Katonah, NY and received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education at Western Connecticut State University. She moved to Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, on the island of Martha’s Vineyard in 1986 when she began her career as a teacher. She commuted off-island for graduate school and received her MEd. in school leadership from Salem State University. Within her thirty-three years as an educator, she taught at several grade levels and was a school principal before she retired and learned to sail. She has two grown daughters, Rilla and Emily. She now lives everywhere aboard her boat, Mavia.

Finding Peace: A Refugee’s Story From Peril to Protection by Richmond B. Appleton 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. 

Author Richmond B. Appleton shares his experiences as a refugee and how faith became the foundation of his survival in the book “Finding Peace.”

The Synopsis

Do you know what it feels like to spend a life in a war-torn country and then live in the U.S?


An inspirational journey that examines what it’s like to grow up under surveillance in a war-torn country every one of us has a story to share. Some of these stories can be heartbreaking, some can be uplifting, and some stand out to inspire others. What matters is that we can learn from each journey and use those lessons to make us better people. I have learned valuable lessons from my Refugee journey and Most of them you can apply to your life’s journey at work, your career, and other things that you passionate about. Richmond Appleton is one of the few people who can vouch for an inspirational journey this book will expound on his road to survival and why it motivates everyone to take a giant step to search for a better future.

This book is all about what to do when you want to do something, but you are not able to do it, what can you do? If you want to know the answer then you’re in the right place.

In This Book


• Why I left my home country of Liberia and why fled to a refugee camp in Ghana.
• How Faith has been the foundation of my life’s journey.
• If there is nothing left for us to go back to.
• If there was no hope left for our past.
• What do you do when you see no more hope in life?

After reading this book you will learn to listen to your intuition, separate real danger from an imagined one, and recognize the survival signals that your brain gives you.

The Review

The author’s sense of resilience and strength is evident from the earliest chapters of this memoir. The line, “disappointment is a visitor, not a resident,” showcases this extensively, offering immediate insight into the author’s mindset and life experiences that have shaped so much of his life. The author’s writing is vivid and compelling, using an earnestness and honesty that parallels the imagery in their writing style.

The series of events that defined so much of the author’s life before arriving in America, from surviving polio as a child and learning to live life with the impact it had on his body, to the horrors of war tearing apart his country, life as a refugee, and ultimately his quest for knowledge and finding his place in the world, not only speaks to the lifetime of experiences he had, but the strength he gained emotionally and internally in the face of that adversity. The depth of emotional connection the reader makes with the author’s writing stands out as a major draw for fans of nonfiction, especially those who enjoy memoirs with an inspirational twist.

The Verdict

A fast-paced, short yet compelling read, author Richmond B. Appleton’s “Finding Peace” is a must-read book. The connection he makes with readers through his honest experiences and feelings as he found his faith and adapted to his situations will leave a lasting impact on readers by the book’s end. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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