Category: Book news

New book release: ‘Infectious Injustice’ by Justin Cook

‘Infectious Injustice’ is the new book by Justin Cook. Photo: Amazon

Memoirs and biographies can be some of the most compelling books to read. They tend to provide first hand accounts of eras and places some of us might never get to experiences. Such is the case in today’s new book release: “Infectious Injustice” by Justin Cook. This true story is told by an inmate who was inside, living and breathing in the system of incarceration for nearly two years. No matter how many prison movies or television shows we watch, they will never tell the real story compared to someone who actually lived it. Curious about what prison life is like from the inside and what it says about the justice system, rehabilitation, and the mentally ill and addicted? Then get your copy of “Infectious Injustice” today, it is available on Amazon.

Justin Cook was born in Nevada. He is 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 speaks four languages, which he developed while living abroad in Spain, France, and Germany and has has traveled to over thirty countries, which translates to he doesn’t know how to save money. 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.

“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.” – 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. 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 be able to 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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New book release: ‘Losing Lee’ by Joe Egan

‘Losing Lee’ is the new mystery novel by Joe Egan. Photo: Amazon

When it comes to books, family drama fiction always draws me in, especially when there is a family secret involved. We tend to relate to these stories and characters, much so when the story takes place in our home town or state. Such is the case in today’s new book release “Losing Lee” by Joe Egan. The story takes place in 1998 Dallas, so it should resonate with former and current Texas natives. Bryant Blankenship’s brother Lee died in an accident when Bryant was just 12 years old. Now that he is older and in high school, he wants to know what really happened and won’t rest until he does. This contemporary coming of age novel is perfect for readers of all ages who appreciate family saga fiction as well as stories that take place in the 90s-so retro! “Losing Lee” is available on Amazon and signed copies are available through the author’s website. Get your copy today and find out what really happened to Bryant and why there is so much secrecy around his death.

Joe Egan, a Minnesotan, resides in the heartland with his wife and daughter. His literary journey began at the age of seven crafting short stories and creating student newspapers and he has been hooked to the pen ever since. Joe is a devout Catholic, a golf fanatic, and a friend of Bill W. In his spare time, you can find him driving his truck, hanging out with family, or writing his next novel. His new book “Losing Lee” is a mystery novel about the mysterious death of a teenage boy’s brother. (Joe Egan, 2023)

“Losing Lee” – In 1998 Dallas, Texas, 17-year-old Bryant Blankenship grapples with the mystery surrounding his older brother Lee’s untimely death five years earlier. Covered in secrecy, Lee’s passing has left Bryant yearning for the truth. An off-color comment from a classmate hints at Lee’s involvement in dubious activities, sparking Bryant’s quest for the truth. “Losing Lee” is a gripping mystery about what it means to find closure.

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New book release: ‘Forbidden Bodyguard’ by Rachael Theron

‘Forbidden Bodyguard’ by Rachael Theron is an Enemies to Lovers Romance novel. Photo: Rachael Theron, used with permission.

Contemporary romance novels have always been the most popular subgenre of romance novels because they take place in modern times and the characters tend to be more relatable. If you are a fan of these novels, I have exciting news for you: today’s new book release is a contemporary romance titled “Forbidden Bodyguard: An Enemies to Lovers Romance” by Rachael Theron. As an added bonus, you can take advantage of a Free Book Download offer to check out this forbidden romance between a bodyguard and his boss’ daughter. Sounds steamy, doesn’t it? Don’t wait! Get yourself a free copy and find out what happens when you mix business with pleasure.

“Forbidden Bodyguard: An Enemies to Lovers Romance”

Hooking up with my boss’s gorgeous daughter wasn’t part of the job description.

Isabella Blackwood is back from college and is more entitled than ever. As the head of Blackwood security, I can work things around to make sure we don’t cross paths. But I secretly crave her smart mouth, wondering what other nasty things her full lips can do. Her privileged attitude, stunning looks, and seductive body —she’s a maddening mix of irritation and fascination. Things get complicated when Isabella’s father insists she has her own bodyguard, but I don’t trust him.

My protective instincts go wild.

When we’re stuck together for a weekend wedding, everything is put on the line, and I’ll risk it all to keep her safe: my career, my life, my heart. (Rachael Theron, 2023)

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Photo: Rachael Theron, used with permission.

Book review: ‘My Goodbye Girl’ by Anna Gomez

‘My Goodbye Girl’ is a contemporary romance novel by Anna Gomez. Photo: Amazon

Anna Gomez is a hopeless romantic who writes about real life, flawed characters and the saving grace of unconditional love. Her experience of living and growing up in a foreign country plays a large part in her stories. Her full-time career and ability to travel extensively also add flair and individuality to the vividly written settings in her books. They transport the reader to faraway places and make them feel like they have been there before. Anna’s inspiration stems from the people she meets and the places that she has seen. Her stories are realistic and honest, thought-provoking and impactful. Her love for poetry is evident in her writing style. She also has written under the pen name Christine Brae and six books of her books have won literary awards and ranked as bestsellers upon release. In her latest novel “My Goodbye Girl” Tessa must let go of the past and determine once and for all if love is truly more powerful than the pain of goodbye. (Amazon, 2023)

“My Goodbye Girl” – This contemporary romance begins when Tessa Talman first meets Simon Fremont as they are both waiting to board a plane bound for La Guardia. Not only is she attracted to him, she is intrigued by how different their lives are. He is a dedicated scientist, practical, pragmatic, and grounded. She is a head-in-the-clouds romance author. As their relationship grows, they meet in places around the world, while continuing to live in different countries. Though their feelings for each other deepen, their priorities remain the same. Simon is in a hurry to be financially sound and settle down, but Tessa is enjoying her freedom and newfound success. Neither is willing to give in, but as each goodbye gets harder, Tessa begins to wonder whether fame is the path to happiness, or if she has everything she needs in Simon. Just as Tessa finds the courage to go after her own happily ever after, the unthinkable happens, separating them in ways she never imagined.

Romance novels are usually a guilty pleasure because they are predictable and include a ‘happily ever after’ plot. The two main characters in this story are so different from each other and meet at predetermined sites around that world that it is impossible to picture them having a serious future together. Tessa is a free spirited author who enjoys traveling around the world while Simon is a serious scientist who is ready to settle down. The first part is just about them meeting in different places and then hurriedly saying goodbye. Because there is little development or depth to these characters, they are not relatable, so it is hard to be concerned about what happens to them. The real action does not take place until the end of the first part, in Chapter 35, and by then, it feels rushed. Regardless, it is an easy read and since it is heavily dialogue driven, with descriptive language and short chapters, the story flows through the pages. Tessa and Simon’s story takes place through the years as they experience the harsh reality of life – no spoilers! Far from original, “My Goodbye Girl” is still an easy and enjoyable read about two people who are polar opposites yet are involved in a whirlwind romance that takes them around the world. It is recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary romance, women’s fiction, and multicultural romances and appreciate emotional plot twists.  

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

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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Anger Management Tools for Parents by Stewart McClain #booktok #parentingbooks #parentingbooktok #booksforparents #angermanagement #angermanagementissues #angermanagementbook

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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 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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