Month: October 2023

New book release: ‘Cliff’ by John M. Spagnoli

‘Cliff’ is the new novel by John M. Spagnoli. Photo: Barnes & Noble.

Detective and crime novels are so interesting to read because they tend to include elements of suspense and investigation. Today’s new book release combines the best of investigations with an unexpected botanical subplot. If you are a fan of both, may I recommend “Cliff” by John Spagnoli. Seasoned detectives Skull and Violet are hot on the trail on a new case when the unexpected happens. If good old detective stories are your favorite read, give this one a try. It is available on Barnes & Noble as an e-book.

John Spagnoli, author of the psychological thriller novel “Shadowed Soul” and a botanical primer, “How to Grow Worsleya Seeds,” is both a storyteller of suspenseful tales and botanist. An avid gardener with experience in hybridization, he created new day lily and clivia plant crosses. A New York City native, he is the proud father of two ‘seedlings’ of his own. He underpins his new detective novel, “Cliff,” with his own skilled research about rare and common plants. (John Spagnoli, 2023)

“Cliff” – Told through the eyes of two seasoned detectives, Skull and Violet, this story has as many twists and turns as the sinuous cliff side roads where mysterious murders occur. When Skull returns from military service with PTSD, Violet covers for him as they sleuth out cold cases in the seaside metropolis where they grew up as besties. The duo struggles with unrequited love for each other while scrambling to investigate a new rash of murders masquerading as suicides. From women dropped over cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean to paranormal apparitions in the twilight hours, nothing make sense to the detectives until rumors of a cult lead to unexpected botanical revelations. Colorful characters spice the treacherous hunt to catch the perpetrators before the next victim is sacrificed. Will Skull’s PTSD compromise the investigation before they can bring the serial killers to justice?

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Upcoming book release: ‘The Girl from Wudang’ by PJ Caldas

PJ Calas’ new novel ‘The Girl from Wudang’ will be released October 17, 2023. Photo: Amazon

The author of multiple best-selling novels in Brazil, PJ Caldas, a.k.a PJ Pereira was picked by the Dictionary of Brazilian Literature as one of the most important writers of the twenty-first century. There, he published four books inspired by the mythology carried to the country by the African diaspora, and reached the top five best-selling titles multiple times. PJ is also a martial artist with 40 years of experience in combat sports, including kempo, karate, tai chi, and Brazilian jiu jitsu. In 2023 he was named Jury President of the Artificial Intelligence Awards at the Art Director’s Club, and curated a Global immersive exhibit of designers collaborating with AI, called ADC101+1, as a way to explore the use of this emerging technology as a creative tool. His new book “The Girl from Wudang: A Novel About Artificial Intelligence, Martial Arts and Immortality” is a story about immortality, martial arts, and AI that will make you change the way you look at life, science, and the crazy times we are living in. It will be released Tuesday, October 17, 2023. (Meryl Moss Media Group, 2023)

“The Girl from Wudang” – Tigress is immortal. This is her story. Yinyin, called Tigress, was raised in the sacred mountains of Wudang, where her life was about Tai Chi, the Dao, and trying to balance her yang with yin. She had never heard of Artificial Intelligence or neuroscience. But then her overpowering yang sets her on a course to the Bay Area to become a professional fighter.

For as long as she could remember, Yinyin had been told she was poised to become part of something big, but what “big” turned out to be was beyond her imagining: a scientific experiment that would allow her to connect her brain to a “Brainternet” and become unbeatable. Bonus: the suicidal headaches that had plagued her all her life would cease.

But nothing comes without a price, and this connection would give others access to family secrets Yinyin has sworn to protect. Secrets that, at large and in the wrong hands, could be a very dangerous.

Fans of the legendary cyberpunk novels and gritty sci-fi thrillers of William Gibson and Stieg Larsson will be captivated by this new techno-thriller–a fast-paced blend of action, neuroscience, spirituality, and martial arts.

“A superlative new novel by one of Brazil’s most innovative writers. A mesmerizing clash between Eastern and Western beliefs about mind and body.” —Bruce Dean Willis, literature professor, University of Tulsa

“An interdisciplinary brewing of ideas and imagination, packed with futuristic brain science tech, martial arts action, and Asian culture.” — Professor Paul Li, author and faculty in cognitive science, UC Berkeley

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New book release: ‘Anger Management Tools For Parents’ by Stewart McClain

‘Anger Management Tools For Parents’ is the new parenting guide by Stewart McClain. Photo: Stewart McClain.

Parenting is not always easy and sometimes you need all the help you can get. There are many parenting books out there but today’s new book release focuses on anger management for parents. “Anger Management Tools For Parents: A Practical Guide to Becoming A Calmer, Nicer, Happier Parent” by Stewart McClain addresses the importance of keeping your anger in check when dealing with your children. Remember, at the end of the day, only you can make the difference. Purchase this book today and readjust your mindset forever. It is available on Barnes & Noble in hardcover and e-book format. Paperback signed copies are available on PayPal.

Born and raised in Saint Louis, MO, Stewart McClain holds a Doctorate in Religion and Education and a Bachelors in Leadership and Counseling. He is one of the most sought after speakers in his field. Stewart started his public speaking career when he was 18 years old and has been a serial entrepreneur for 17 years. He has traveled all around the United States giving messages of hope and empowerment. Despite having had multiple setbacks, he keeps moving forward with a drive and determination to achieve his goals. In his new book “Anger Management Tools For Parents: A Practical Guide to Becoming A Calmer, Nicer, Happier Parent,” parents will discover simple strategies that can help their child’s future and make everyone happier in the process. (Stewart McClain, 2023)

“Anger Management Tools For Parents: A Practical Guide to Becoming A Calmer, Nicer, Happier Parent” – the author has written this book for people just like you, those who are ready to make a Positive Change in their life. Do you look at your kids’ faces when you discipline them? Are you scared that your anger is getting the better of you a little too often? Getting frustrated is in many ways a natural part of this life, and a part of being human. However, there are ways to navigate through the chaos of raising a child without letting it get you all worked up inside. You just need to better understand your own emotions and your anger.

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Book of the week: ‘Think Like a Scientist’ by Brandon Green

‘Think Like a Scientist’ is a a children’s book about chronic illness and gaslighting by Brandon Green. Photo: Brandon Green

Going through a chronic illness is traumatic enough, but when people gaslight you to the point of thinking you need psychological help, it can be the tipping point. Gaslighting means to manipulate someone using psychological methods to make them question their own sanity or powers of reasoning. This is Brandon Green’s story after he developed Covid, which in turn gave him extreme and rare symptoms which no one around him understood or believed; they even had him committed. This led him to write a children’s book about his experience hoping to help others in similar situations. Today’s book highlight is the children’s book “Think Like a Scientist” by Brandon Green. It is available on his website as a free download in low quality but you can purchase a high quality version with higher quality pictures and text. 

Brandon Green is an Australian businessman who owns an online coffee shop and toy store. He is an avid entrepreneur who enjoys all aspects of business, whether it is online or offline. He has written a successful self-help book to help people develop a positive mindset. One day he developed Long Covid, which progressed into mold toxicity, multiple chemical sensitivity, and EMF sensitivity. His life has been different ever since and he is now a chronic illness warrior. While doing journaling exercises to document his story, he got the idea of writing a children’s books all about it. His book “Think Like a Scientist” is a children’s book about chronic illness to help them learn a valuable and long lasting life lesson about the topic. (Brandon Green, 2023)

“Think Like a Scientist” – Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a scientist? Jack hadn’t, until his father contracted Covid 19 and developed Long Covid, which involved a variety of chronic health issues – mold toxicity, Lyme Disease, Candida Overgrowth, S.I.B.O, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivity, electromagnetic sensitivity, chronic fatigue syndrome, and light sensitivity. His deteriorating health was something most doctors had never seen before and couldn’t understand. Jack’s father went on quite a rough journey that ended with him being sent to a psychiatric hospital. With the help of data, his father, and the opinion of experts that made the most sense to him, Jack applied critical thinking, thinking like a scientist, to save the day.

It is based on a true story, his story. The symptoms Brandon developed were only familiar to the mold, Lyme, Long Covid, and chronic illness communities. As if he wasn’t suffering enough from his chronic illness, he had the gaslighting to deal with on top, as many chronic illness sufferers deal with gaslighting from their families, doctors, and people they reach out to for support. They can relate to his story because they are scared and realize that they could very well end up in the psyche ward. Now he wishes that there had been a book that covered all his issues, even if it was written as a children’s book. Then he would have used it as a handbook to give to friends, families, and even doctors, anyone who doubted his experience. He would hand it to them and say, “See, I’m not crazy. Others have gone through the exact same thing. Kids can understand it, you just have to Think Like a Scientist.” Now there is such a book.

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Book review: ‘Words To Feel Less Alone’ by Brenna O’Neill

‘Words To Feel Less Alone’ is Brenna O’Neill’s new book that chronicles her journey through depression and ultimately healing. Photo: Brenna O’Neill.

Brenna O’Neill is a mental health advocate from Invercargill, New Zealand. A lover of writing, learning, and teaching, she created My Latibule, an online anti-depression community full of tools dedicated to helping people manage clinical depression, all based on her personal experience, professional  therapy, and a BSC in Psychology. Latibule means a place of safety and comfort. My Latibule provides guided anti-depression journals, teaches i-Rest Yoga Nidra meditation, designs beautiful gifts with reminders to stay, and fosters community connections by sharing stories. Her book “Words To Feel Less Alone” chronicles her personal journey through depression and contains the exact words she wrote in her doctor prescribed journal when her brain was consumed by clinical depression. It is available through her website.

Journaling is often prescribed as part of therapy as a means to be honest with yourself and face the issues that are causing problems. For most people, this is the only way to be truly open and honest, since no one will see those journals. When Brenna shared her writings with a friend who was struggling with her own mental health, she found them helpful because it made her realize that she is not alone, that other people struggle as well. This was also how Brenna felt as she was struggling with depression, she did not know anyone else who was depressed and that made her feel so alone. It was then that she decided to share her story with others in the hopes that they would feel less alone.  

“Words To Feel Less Alone” is a deeply personal account of the author’s battle with depression. She begins by emphasizing that it is meant to help those who are battling with depression, homophobia, or religious guilt or if even if they just know someone who is. If they need to talk to a professional, she directs readers to call their doctor or use any of the resources she lists in the back of the book. This book is divided into six chapters including Oh Sweet Denial and The Longest Day. She includes pictures of herself that highlight how she was feeling on that particular day versus how she looked, as well as snippets from her actual journal. What makes it feel more personal is that the font she uses is based on her real handwriting. At the end of each chapter, she includes notes written by her doctor and therapist to give a behind the scenes look at the healing process. Rest assured, she is doing much better now and living a fulfilling life and trying to help others who are battling depression. It contains adult language and themes of depression, suicidal ideations, and homophobia and is sometimes difficult to get through, but it is well worth it. Readers in similar situations will certainly relate to her struggle and will hopefully come out feeling more optimistic. It is a must read and recommended for readers who are on the same journey or just want to learn more about what it is like to struggle with mental illness.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

New horror movie release: 15 Cameras

15 Cameras is available On Demand and limited theater release. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Voyeuristic style films explore society’s insatiable thirst to watch and be watched. If you’re a fan, this new horror release might be a good fit for you. 15 Cameras is a sequel to 13 Cameras and 14 Cameras but it does well as a stand alone movie, so you don’t necessarily have to see the first two films to enjoy this one. On Friday October 13, it is coming to On Demand and in theaters in Los Angeles. 15 Cameras, directed by Danny Madden and written by PJ McCabe stars Will Madden, Angela Wong Carbone, Hilty Bowen, James Babson, Shirley Chen, Hannah Mckechnie, Skyler Bible, Courtney Dietz, Erik Leupp, Donna Allen, Brianne Moncrief, Jim Cummings, and Stephen Ruffin. (October Coast, 2023)

15 Cameras – When Cam and Sky bought their duplex, it seemed like the perfect investment opportunity for the young couple; a starter home, a mortgage offset by renters, and even a guest room for Sky’s sister, Carolyn. But as Sky and Cam slowly uncover hidden cameras and secrets of the duplex’s previous owner, obsession consumes their marriage and they both fall into destructive forms of voyeurism. When new tenants move in downstairs, their fixation with observing others has deadly consequences and they are forced to confront the very things they have been consumed by.

New book release: ‘Shadows Of The Stanton House’ by Philip J. Jones

‘Shadows Of The Stanton House’ is the new novel by Philip J. Jones. Photo: Amazon

If you’re a fan of ghost stories, any time is a good time to curl up with a ghost thriller. But with spooky season upon us, now is the perfect time to dig into a good old fashion ghost story, especially if it is set in a spooky old building, like a convent. This new book release is just that. “Shadows Of The Stanton House” by Philip J. Jones has the feel of a good old fashion mystery and suspense work of literature. So get ready for a journey through dimly lit corridors of passion and mystery with “Shadows Of The Stanton House,” where every shadow tells a story, and every story is a secret waiting to be unveiled. Don’t wait! Get your copy today on Amazon and dive right in. It’s only a ghost story…..

Philip J. Jones’ journey began on a goat farm, where the rhythmic melodies of nature and the humbling responsibility of caring for animals taught him the beauty of simplicity. From those pastures, he found his way to an old, repurposed convent, which had blossomed into a thriving arts commune. Living there during his formative years, he was surrounded by a mosaic of creativity and passionate souls that deeply influenced his artistic inclinations. Throughout his journeys, both geographical and personal, he has come to understand that his true passion lies in the combination of the arts, nature, and culture. For him, the creative process is not just about creating something from nothing—it is a profound dance of experiences, memories, and the rich cultural contexts that have shaped him. He strives to channel these inspirations into his work, hoping to raise the same sense of wonder and connection in his readers that he has been fortunate to feel throughout his life. His biggest aim is to bridge worlds and touch souls. In his new book “Shadows Of The Stanton House,” an aging convent turned artists’ sanctuary whispers with echoes of the past and is the setting for a tale of love, art, and spectral mystery. (Amazon, 2023)

“Shadows Of The Stanton House” – For centuries, the Stanton House Convent has been a vessel of inspiration and mystique, offering refuge to artists seeking solace and muse. However, shadows cast by ancient spirits lurking within its venerable walls dance randomly with the lives of the current residents. Sarah, a pragmatic mystic, finds her powers challenged by the spectral forces while engaging in a desperate ballet to shield her companions. Unfolding alongside her is the journey of Alex, a filmmaker teetering on the ethical tightrope between exploitative sensationalism and the authentic human stories dwelling in the convent’s heart.

As these stories interweave, enter Emily, an artist with a soul as sensitive as her brush, caught in a turbulent whirlwind of love and supernatural intrigue. With each page, “Shadows Of The Stanton House” unveils the fragile tapestry of their lives, shimmering under the influence of love, art, and the binding haunting that ties them inexorably together.

In the unfolding canvas, relationships ebb and flow, reflecting the tumultuous energies at play. The characters find themselves at a crossroad, tethered between the earthly and the supernatural, passion and betrayal, with the Stanton House watching silently, bearing witness to their joys and sorrows.

So step into the shadows, where love is as unpredictable and potent as the spirits ensnaring the Stanton House. Engage with the unforgettable ensemble as they navigate through a maze of artistry and otherworldliness, where the end of one story is but the whisper of another, lingering long after the final page is turned.

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New book release: ‘The Wonders of Kwame: A Village’s Healing Miracle’ by Walter Jones

‘The Wonders of Kwame: A Village’s Healing Miracle’ is the new novel by Walter Jones.

Supernatural thrillers that feature characters with supernatural powers have always fascinated me. Not just because of the power itself, but because there is so much more going on behind the scenes. There are always unintended consequences and people who want to use that power for their own purposes, whether good or bad. Such is the case in today’s new book release: “The Wonders of Kwame: A Village’s Healing Miracle” by Walter Jones. It is a small book for young readers that combines religion, spirituality, and supernatural elements to weave a story of a young boy torn between two fates. That sounds interesting, doesn’t it? If this sounds like a book you might enjoy, pick up a copy today, it is available on Amazon.

Walter Jones was born in Jacksonville, Florida and attended the Armed Forces Culinary Arts School in Patuxent River, Maryland. He ministered at The Upper Room Ministry in Jacksonville and enjoys bowling, fishing, and working out at the gym. His new book “The Wonders of Kwame: A Village’s Healing Miracle” is the story of Kwame, a healer – a boy whose mere presence undoes the worst and most grievous injuries, but his powers come with a price. (Walter Jones, 2023)

“The Wonders of Kwame: A Village’s Healing Miracle” – Kwame is a healer. They say miracles are born of dreams. When an old, childless couple living in a remote village make their wish, they realise that their destiny has greater plans for them—and the child. But their blessing comes interwind with tragedy, and the fate of their child is significant not only for the people of their village, but also for the gods and the spirits of the forest themselves.

Kwame knew he was different from the moment he was born. His birth had been prophesized long before he existed. Throughout his entire life, the people of Amani keep telling him how special he is, and how special he must become.

But Kwame’s powers do not manifest so easily. One tragedy follows another as everyone who loves and care for Kwame seems to be in constant pain and surrounded by ill-luck. Growing up, he begins to wonder whether his so-called gifts are ever going to emerge, and whether they would end up being a curse.

The story of Kwame is the story of a boy whose destiny catapults into both joy and sorrow, and as the boy learns to understand and accept his miraculous powers, he must also come to decide the answer to the most important question of them all. Who is he? What does he want? And how will he use his incredible abilities in this life?

Kwame is torn between two fates—the one drawn for him by the gods themselves—and the one illustrated by his caretaker and surrogate mother, a woman who despite her earnest behavior, seems to be hiding a dark and painful past of her own. And so, Kwame must make a choice, one that will affect not only himself, but the soul of nature itself. What should he do with his powers? His answer might have consequences not just for him, but for all of humanity.

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New book release: ‘Datura Serpentis’ by Trevor Carter

‘Datura Serpentis’ is the new gripping supernatural thriller by Trevor Carter. Photo: Amazon

When it comes to books, thrillers can include psychological thrillers, crime thrillers, and even outer space thrillers. Today’s new book release highlight is “Datura Serpentis” by Trevor Carter. By combining botany and the supernatural, readers will witness the dark side of nature, as Mother Nature has plans to rid itself of humanity by creating a new species. It is a well written suspense thriller that centers around nature and dark forces bent on disrupting the natural order. Are you ready for your next exciting read? Get your hands on “Datura Serpentis” today and find out if humanity will prevail. It is available on Amazon.

Trevor Carter is an author of the fantastical, the imaginal, and the supernatural. He has a passion for writing stories that entangle the human mind with the natural world and the not-so-natural world (the hidden realms unseen by the eyes). His stories are intermingled with elements of fantasy, science fiction, mystery, suspense, and sometimes horror. His novels are engaging and illuminating; he enjoys skirting on the edge of what is real and what is possible, to create a unique story that is thrilling and thought-provoking. He is the author of “Cosmic Communion” and “Lost in the Abyss.” “Datura Serpentis,” his new novel, is a gripping supernatural thriller that will leave you terrified and illuminated. (Amazon, 2023)

“Datura Serpentis” – Born with the ability to communicate with nature, Alaina Landry finds herself entangled in a conflict between a dark force of nature that has created a plant-born insect that poses an existential threat to humanity and another force that has chosen her to carry the seed for a new species, one that could replace humans.

In this enchanted thriller, the town of Cherokee, North Carolina is about to face a cataclysmic threat—one that sprouts from the earth itself. When a peculiar circle of plants emerge, unleashing a virulent insect that spells doom for humanity, Alaina Landry, a botanist, and her colleagues must race against time to halt its deadly proliferation. As Alaina, whose has a profound connection with Nature, delves into the mysteries of the botanical menace, she uncovers a startling revelation: Mother Nature, with her ruthless hand, is not only orchestrating humanity’s demise but is sculpting a new species from the ashes.

In this gripping tale that marries ecological peril with spiritual awakening, “Datura Serpentis” takes readers on a thrilling journey into the mind of Nature, where salvation and evolution intertwine in a dance of life and death. Will Alaina and her friends succeed in thwarting Nature’s sinister plan, or will a new species emerge that will usurp humanity’s throne?

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Pappasito’s Cantina celebrates 40th anniversary

The legendary Tex-Mex restaurant will be celebrating all month long in October with food and drink specials and commemorative mugs at 20 locations throughout Texas and Georgia. Photo: Pappasito’s, used with permission.

Pappasito’s Cantina is excited to announce that its 40th anniversary celebration is taking place throughout October. The month-long celebration will feature food and drink specials, including $40 for 40 Fajitas on Wednesdays starting at 4p.m., a commemorative 40th anniversary mug with Fiesta Fizz or Pappasito’s Signature Reserva Margarita, and a special Fiesta Fudge Brownie. Guests will also have the opportunity to win one of ten $400 gift cards by entering online. E-Club members will receive additional perks throughout the month. (Pappasito’s Cantina, 2023)

Pappasito’s is driven by the same principles that family patriarch H.D. Pappas brought with him to the New World in 1897: a passion for quality food and service, careful attention to detail, and a determination to treat every person who walks through the door as a welcomed guest. 

Decades after opening, Pappasito’s continues to provide superior flavor, freshness and presentation that guests will not find anywhere else. Using only the highest quality produce, meat and fish, each location ensures only the best dishes arrive at the table. This includes roasting their salsa in their kitchens daily, using fresh-squeezed lime juice for their famous margaritas and hand-making tortillas in-house.

Just as important as the quality of the food and drinks is the service they provide guests. Team members are carefully selected, receive world-class training and are encouraged to grow within the company, which is one of the many reasons their team is consistently known as the best in the business. Many Pappasito’s team members have been with the organization for decades, passing along their passion and institutional knowledge to the next generation of servers, cooks, bartenders, managers, and more. 

“The Pappas family feels so honored that diners continue to return to Pappasito’s, and we are proud to carry on the tradition of serving outstanding food and providing exceptional service in an atmosphere where people go to be treated like family, to be entertained, and to enjoy great food, knowing that they can expect that Pappas trademark of quality. We look forward to celebrating 40 years with our valued guests all month long and beyond!” – Chris Pappas, CEO of Pappas Restaurants, Inc.

Pappasito’s Cantina is the second largest concept in one of the largest family-owned and operated restaurant companies in the United States. The Pappas family of restaurants offers many different cuisines and traditions, but common to all is an obsession with quality food and superior service that is reflected in every aspect of the Guest experience. Pappas is a respected leader in the competitive restaurant industry. The Pappas philosophy has not changed much over the years. The drive still comes from a passion for excellence, a focus on innovation and attention to detail and quality in everything they do.