Category: book releases

New book release: ‘Authentically Grounded: A Guided Journal for Unraveling and Soothing Your Soul’ by Melissa Smith

Melissa Smith’s new book “Authentically Grounded.” Photo: Melissa Smith, used with permission.

Part of self care usually means journaling as a way to get to know yourself better. For some people, this comes easy, while for others, they could benefit from guidance from an outside source. In today’s book news, Melissa Smith’s new book “Authentically Grounded: A Guided Journal for Unraveling and Soothing Your Soul” is this type of resource guide meant to guide you in your journey to self discovery and connecting with yourself.

Melissa Smith holds a Master of Science in Reading Education and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Radford University. Her academic background and esteemed personal and professional experiences equip her with the knowledge and empathy necessary to navigate complex social issues. Melissa’s career began as an elementary school teacher in underserved schools, where she utilized her skills to help students overcome personal and systemic obstacles. Today, she uses her platform to illuminate and challenge societal norms and systemic barriers, inspiring individuals, particularly Black women with diverse, intersectional identities, to embrace their authentic selves. (Melissa Smith, 2023)

As the Founder and Principal Consultant of Authentically Grounded, Melissa aids individuals and communities in breaking free from oppressive societal constructs, promoting their well-being, and encouraging the exploration of their unique identities. She provides transformative coaching, consulting, and development services, specializing in emotional flexibility, culturally humble pedagogy, decolonization practices, personal development, and self-exploration. Her work is clearly multifaceted, covering a broad spectrum of transformative personal and social change. With her authentic storytelling and ability to facilitate difficult discussions, Melissa connects with her audience on a profound level.

In her transformation from a public school educator to a DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) professional leader, Melissa focuses on empowering others to acknowledge their potential and promote inclusivity in all walks of life. Join her on this transformative journey as she continues to inspire and liberate people worldwide. Her new book “Authentically Grounded: A Guided Journal for Unraveling and Soothing Your Soul” is a one-of-a-kind tool designed to help you tap into your inner strength and connect with yourself on a deep level.

Author Melissa Smith. Photo: Melissa Smith, used with permission.

“Authentically Grounded: A Guided Journal for Unraveling and Soothing Your Soul” offers a refreshing approach to self-exploration by providing a safe and empowering space to celebrate your strengths, acknowledge your challenges, and explore your inner self. Through a unique blend of introspective prompts, self-care practices, and mindfulness exercises, this guided journal provides a nurturing environment for exploring your patterns, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, enabling you to reconnect with your sense of self.

“Authentically Grounded” offers a distinctive method of supporting individuals from communities that have been historically excluded, marginalized, and underserved. This guided journal deliberately creates a welcoming environment for these communities to delve into their experiences, emotions, and feelings as they navigate their path toward personal growth and healing. You are worthy and deserving of the life you want, and you have the power to create it, one step at a time. Whether seeking inner peace, building self-confidence, or cultivating a deeper self-awareness, experience the transformative power of Authentically Grounded: A Guided Journal for Unraveling and Soothing your Soul.

Start your journey toward authenticity and wholeness today!

Photo: Melissa Smith, used with permission.

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‘I Hope You Dance: Inspirational Quotes to Help You Enjoy the Magic of Life’ by Randa and Nadiath Adechoubou

‘I Hope You Dance: Inspirational Quotes to Help You Enjoy the Magic of Life’ by Randa and Nadiath Adechoubou. Photo: Amazon

For readers who like inspirational and self-help books, “I Hope You Dance: Inspirational Quotes to Help You Enjoy the Magic of Life” by Randa and Nadiath Adechoubou is a collection of inspirational quotes and positive affirmations that is sure to lift your spirits.

Randa Adechoubou holds a master’s in business administration (MBA) from the University of Cape Town (UCT) and a BPhil in political science from Northwestern University. When she is not writing in her favorite coffee shop, Randa is exploring or daydreaming about her next travel destination. In her books, she provides practical action plans to help you recognize what is keeping you stuck, as well as the talents and brilliance you can use to move forward —all in a friendly conversational tone. So be prepared to laugh and learn as you will finally find the confidence to let your brilliance shine. She is the author, along with Nadiath Adechoubou, of “I Hope You Dance: Inspirational Quotes to Help You Enjoy the Magic of Life” – a collection of inspirational quotes that will inspire you to live your best life. It is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and Bookshop, among others. (Randa Adechoubou, 2023)

“I Hope You Dance: Inspirational Quotes to Help You Enjoy the Magic of Life” – Have you ever wondered why some people can, but others cannot? How some can stay positive when others cannot find the light in the darkest times of their lives? Experiences leave their mark, and for those who have gone through difficult times, they know the tough times never last. They kept going, trusting they would see light at the end of the tunnel. In this book, the authors have created a collection of funny, uplifting, and inspirational quotes to get us motivated. Whether you are looking for that creative spark, trying to find the energy to carry on, or just want to put a smile on your face, “I Hope You Dance” will be your companion. This book is for anyone who needs a pick me up, anyone who has been knocked to the bottom, and anyone struggling to get back up: keep on dancing.

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‘The Legend of The Black Shadow’ by Elonzo Phillips

‘The Legend of The Black Shadow’ is a western novel by Elonzo Phillips. Photo: Amazon

Elonzo Phillips is a writer who was born and raised in Wharton, Texas. He started writing when he was 19 years old while in his second semester in college and wrote his first book when he was 21. By the time he graduated college, he had written four books. He wanted to become a writer because he has always excelled at creating stories, both fiction and non-fiction. When he was in school, he was constantly teased for daydreaming and now he has turned it into writing, his favorite hobby, for when he is daydreaming, he is re-writing reality in his head as his own personal multiverse. His favorite author is Stephen King and the movies based on his books, especially Stand By Me, Misery, Pet Sematary, and The Shawshank Redemption partially inspired him to become a writer. His book “The Legend of the Black Shadow” is the story of Bryce Taylor, a young black cowboy out to prove that life can be lived without hate, conflicts, or wars. A reading sample is available on Amazon. (Elonzo Phillips, 2023)

“The Legend of the Black Shadow” – Even as a kid, young Bryce Taylor watched the evil of the West slaughter both his family and his friend. Since then, Bryce has traveled all over the West, feared as the famous mask gunman, known as The Black Shadow, who wanted nothing more than to stand and fight for colored folks and for folks of different ethnicities, proving that all humans are the same and should be treated the same, regardless of color. During his journey around the West, he crosses paths with friends and foes, who hate, fear, and like him.

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New book release: ‘Torn’ by Estralia Russelle

‘Torn’ by Estralia Russelle. Photo: Estralia Russelle, used with permission.

Estralia Russelle is a writer who enjoys independent thinking and creative writing. She writes novels about character development and adventure and spends most of her time in nature, learning about all life and the wonders of creation. The nature of existence captivates her attention. Having traveled to seven continents and many countries, she is intrigued by the different cultures around the world. She studied and practiced the healing arts for several years and is a retired teacher, having taught elementary, middle, and high school. Her new romance novel “Torn” centers around Anora, who after a brokenhearted farewell to her boyfriend Winston decides to move to Australia to get to know her herself and her long-lost biological family. (Estralia Russelle, 2023)

“Torn” is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and Kobo.

“Torn” – Anora is perplexed when her long-time boyfriend, Winston, announces his abrupt move to India from Germany, where he will be able to fulfill his life’s goal. He insists that coming with him is a mistake but implores her to have faith and wait for him- for two years. She expected to marry Winston. While he has made no such commitment, her heart longs for that future.

Heartbroken and dejected, she searches for a new beginning with her long-lost biological family residing in Australia. Finally, she can get to know her roots. Not only does she become acquainted with the mother she has never known, but siblings, aunts, and the extended family for which she has longed. The shadows of her past haunt her. Deep wounds envelop her heart from years of abuse and neglect. How will she know love when she finds it if she has never been in love?

With this new environment comes new beginnings – including love- that she never expected. Hawthorne is a stunning, tall man with an infectious laugh. He captivates her mind and her heart. However, his culture is foreign to her, leaving her to wonder if she can find unconditional love with someone so different from herself. Nevertheless, Anora finds love, but that is only the beginning. Their families are full of prejudice and threaten to tear them apart. Together, against all odds, they are steadfast in their commitment to one another.

“One of the strengths of ‘Torn’ is Russelle’s beautiful and poignant writing style. The prose is well-crafted, evoking a wide range of emotions in the reader.”  Jennellbrown – Barnes & Noble review

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Book review: ‘Meru’ by S.B. Divya

‘Meru’ is the new science fiction novel by S.B. Divya. Photo: Amazon

S.B. Divya is the Hugo and Nebula nominated author of “Meru,” “Machinehood,” “Runtime,” and “Contingency Plans For the Apocalypse and Other Possible Situations.” Her short stories have appeared in numerous magazines and anthologies, and she was the co-editor of Escape Pod, the weekly science fiction podcast, from 2017-2022. Divya holds degrees in Computational Neuroscience and Signal Processing, and she worked for twenty years as an electrical engineer before becoming an author. In her new book “Meru,” one woman and her pilot are about to change the future of the species in an epic space opera about aspiration, compassion, and redemption. A reading sample is available on Amazon. (Amazon, 2023)

“Meru” – For five centuries, human life has been restricted to Earth, while posthuman descendants called alloys freely explore the galaxy. When the Earthlike planet of Meru is discovered, two unlikely companions venture forth to test the habitability of this unoccupied new world and the future of human-alloy relations. For Jayanthi, the adopted human child of alloy parents, it is an opportunity to rectify the ancient reputation of her species as avaricious and destructive, and to give humanity a new place in the universe. For Vaha, Jayanthi’s alloy pilot, it is a daunting yet irresistible adventure to find success as an individual. As the journey challenges their resolve in unexpected ways, the two form a bond that only deepens with their time alone on Meru. How can Jayanthi succeed at freeing humanity from its past when she and Vaha have been set up to fail? Against all odds, hope is human, too.

The story takes place in the far, far future when humans, whose numbers have dwindled, live in colonies on Earth and their robot/AI descendants called ‘alloys’ are the next form of intelligent life. This concept in itself is what stands out because of the rapid rise in AI in recent years. Combined with science fiction, space exploration, and genetic engineering, it makes for a complex saga filled with technology, friendships, and the ever increasing question of what it means to be human. There are so many types of technologies introduced, like the bodym, the body’s information network, and an incarn, the temporary body that alloys use while on Earth, that at times it is hard to focus on the story itself. While the use of the pronouns zie/zir is commendable, it can be distracting until/unless the reader gets used to them. The language, while occasionally tech-heavy, is relatively easy to understand and the story is mainly dialogue driven and switches narration between Jayanthi and Vaha. ‘Meru’ is an impressive work of science fiction complete with space travel, world building, exploration of the human condition in the face of insurmountable challenges, and even an interspecies romance. Labeled as The Alloy Era Book 1, the story will likely continue, and is recommended for readers who appreciate books on genetic engineering, space exploration, and science fiction. It is certainly an interesting work of science fiction.

“No amount of grief and rage could overcome a lifetime of conditioning. Do the least amount of harm to every form of consciousness, alive or not. A planet might not think and feel, but it had a place in the universe. It deserved respect and kindness, especially from a puny thing like her, whose survival depended upon it.”

*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.

‘Empowered: How to Battle Obstacles, Self-Doubt and Unlock Your Hidden Potential’ by Two Initiates

‘Empowered: How to Battle Obstacles, Self-Doubt and Unlock Your Hidden Potential’ can help you on your journey to self improvement. Photo: Amazon

Self-help books are everywhere nowadays, but this one combines self-help with psychology. It is designed for readers who are struggling to reach their goals. Do you feel like no matter what you do, you cannot break through? Do you want to learn how to move forward and create the life you have always wanted? Sometimes it is difficult to stop making the same mistakes over and over again. We are always looking for a new solution that will help us find our way to success. This is where “Empowered: How to Battle Obstacles, Self-Doubt and Unlock Your Hidden Potential” by Two Initiates comes in. A sample is available on Amazon. (Amazon, 2023)

“Empowered: How to Battle Obstacles, Self-Doubt and Unlock Your Hidden Potential” – Many people have a dream, but they do not know how to fulfill it. They lack the knowledge to achieve their goal. How can you become successful? How can you reach the top step of the ladder? What should you do to be happy in your life? This book unveils the science and art of self-development and guides you through how to become the very best version of yourself. Inside, you will find answers to the questions that often leave you in limbo and desperate. Discover the invaluable advice and tips to reaching your fullest potential.

Some of the key takeaways include:

  • Learn techniques to actively listen, comprehend and empathize
  • Understand what increases your personal effectiveness
  • Unearth the science and art of communication
  • Discover the power of relationships in creating wealth
  • Leverage the impact of positive language
  • Master the art of short conversations
  • Uncover the power of non-verbal communication
  • Find out how to speak genuinely and humbly

By relying on the helpful information from this book, you will be able to gently modify unhealthy behavior and develop the tools and the mindset to succeed and become a better person. Whether used for personal growth or self-improvement, this book gives you the knowledge and the understanding to make changes in your life that could have fantastic long-term results.

Does this sound like something that could help you grow as a person? If so, get this book today and start discovering the keys to becoming a better person now.

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New book release: ‘Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future’ by Marvin Merritt II

”Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future’ is the new science fiction thriller by Marvin Merritt II. Photo: Marvin Merritt II, used with permission.

One of my favorite book genres is science fiction, especially when computers and aliens are involved in one way or another; that is just the sci-fi geek in me. This new release from Marvin Merritt II caught my attention: “Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future.” The first chapter is titled ‘The Unexplained Sky’ and begins as the night sky in San Diego, California is lighted with “a stunning array of lights, transforming the city into a celestial canvas of vivid colors.” You can read a sample on Amazon. Sounds intriguing? Here is more information about this exciting new science fiction thriller.

Marvin Merritt II is a seasoned Navy veteran and new author from Georgia. With over 20 years of service and multiple deployments, he has received numerous accolades and awards for his dedication and commitment to serving his country. Marvin’s writing often delves into themes of resilience, hope, and the power of human connection. He skillfully blends suspense, mystery, and heartwarming moments to create stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats while touching their hearts. In his latest book, “Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future,” Marvin showcases his talent for weaving thrilling tales that captivate readers. (Marvin Merritt II, 2023)

“Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future” is an enthralling sci-fi novel that transports readers through time and space. As strange objects appear in the sky, a self-loading internet app spreads worldwide, sparking wonder and mystery among the population. Noah, a brilliant scientist specializing in Computational Linguistics, leads a team that discovers the true nature of the network – a connection to humans 1,000 years in the future. Deciphering encrypted messages, the team learns of an impending disaster that threatens the Earth, putting the fate of humanity in their hands. As the countdown to the disaster begins, governments worldwide race to protect their citizens while people come together to show extraordinary displays of compassion and generosity. Meanwhile, Noah, Aria, Dr. Toliver, and their team race against the clock to prevent the catastrophe, navigating through dangerous obstacles and evading powerful organizations seeking to exploit their discoveries for their gain.

“Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future” is a thought-provoking and suspenseful novel that delves into our responsibility for our present and future. The book is filled with unexpected twists, heart-pounding action, and intrigue, keeping readers on edge until the final page.

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Poetry spotlight: the poetry of Danny Wilson Vol. 4

‘The Hacker’s Handbook’ is just one of Danny Wilson’s poetry books. Photo: Amazon

Continuing the journey into Danny Wilson’s poetry, here is volume 4 and a look into some of his other poetry books. Danny Wilson is a poet originally from Greenville, NC and currently residing in Albuquerque, NM. After years of military service, he is now retired and focusing on his poetry. He has written over 100 poetry books in the last nine years with no intention of slowing down. (Danny Wilson, 2023)

“The Hacker’s Handbook”
Tomorrow is another day….Just believe!! Reality comes and goes but faith is eternal. The down-trodden, homeless, and misunderstood matter.

“A Lifetime of Tomorrow’s”
Never saying never. Desire is the only answer!! Lonely days/nights binding all humans together. We try/We cry at numerous foibles…It’s okay, really!

“Insufficient Strangers”
Trying to capture the magic of Nuance…..I seek the brief sense of External time?….I walk within the shadows of Melancholy babies….Freedom rings! 

“A Continuing Journey”
Thinking of time/space while contemplating an uncertain future. Chaos comes…Chaos fades. Human evolution continues to proceed despite all of our faults. The future?

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New book release: ‘The Transit Chronicles: Uniting Lives in a Connected World’ by Marvin Merritt II

‘The Transit Chronicles: Uniting Lives in a Connected World’ is the new novel by Marvin Merritt II. Photo: Marvin Merritt II, used with permission.

In today’s book news, here is a new release from Marvin Merritt II, “The Transit Chronicles: Uniting Lives in a Connected World.” It is a thriller with a relatively new concept in literature: social media, specifically live streams, and how these forms of connectivity can affect people’s lives.

Marvin Merritt II is a seasoned Navy veteran and new author from Georgia. With over 20 years of service and multiple deployments, he has received numerous accolades and awards for his dedication and commitment to serving his country. Marvin’s writing often delves into themes of resilience, hope, and the power of human connection. He skillfully blends suspense, mystery, and heartwarming moments to create stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats while touching their hearts. In his latest work “Transit Chronicles: Uniting Lives in a Connected World,” Marvin weaves a thrilling tale set against the backdrop of a bustling metropolis. Through Jimmy’s journey, the charismatic bus driver, Marvin explores the power of positivity, the strength of community, and the impact one person can have on the lives of others. (Marvin Merritt II, 2023)

“The Transit Chronicles: Uniting Lives in a Connected World” is a gripping and thrilling novel that delves into the complexities of a society driven by social media and connectivity. In this futuristic world, Jimmy, a bus driver from Chicago, transforms his daily route into a captivating live stream, capturing the hearts and attention of millions of viewers. With his charismatic personality and knack for showcasing the diverse talents of his passengers, Jimmy becomes an unexpected sensation.

However, the excitement takes a dark turn when a series of murders strike the community, leaving Jimmy and his viewers in shock and fear. Determined to uncover the truth, Jimmy embarks on his own investigation, enlisting the help of his loyal viewers, his friend Monica, tech-savvy Derrick, and the relentless Detective Rodriguez. As they navigate the digital landscape and unravel the secrets hidden within the interconnected world, the lines between reality and virtuality blur, posing unforeseen challenges and dangers.

In “The Transit Chronicles,” author Marvin Merritt II seamlessly combines elements of mystery, suspense, and technological innovation, painting a vivid picture of a society shaped by social media and the pursuit of online fame. With each chapter, readers are taken on a thrilling ride, exploring the power of human connection, the impact of digital platforms, and the lengths one man will go to seek justice.

Through its compelling characters, immersive world-building, and thought-provoking themes, “The Transit Chronicles: Uniting Lives in a Connected World” captivates readers with its blend of high-stakes intrigue, unexpected twists, and an exploration of the profound effects of technology on society. It is a riveting tale that will leave readers questioning the boundaries of the virtual world and the lasting impact of human relationships in an increasingly interconnected future.

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New book release: ‘Good Night, Irene’ by Luis Alberto Urrea

‘Good Night, Irene’ is the new novel by Luis Alberto Urrea. Photo: Amazon

Luis Alberto Urrea, a 2005 Pulitzer Prize finalist for nonfiction and member of the Latino Literature Hall of Fame, is a prolific and acclaimed writer who uses his dual-culture life experiences to explore greater themes of love, loss, and triumph. Winner of a Lannan Literary Award and Christopher Award, he is also the recipient of an American Book Award, the Kiriyama Prize, the National Hispanic Cultural Center’s Literary Award, a Western States Book Award, a Colorado Book Award, an Edgar Award, and a citation of excellence from the American Library Association. A professor of creative writing at the University of Illinois – Chicago, he is a member of the Latino Literary Hall of Fame and has won numerous awards for his poetry, fiction, and essays. His new book “Good Night, Irene” asks the question: what if a friendship forged on the front lines of war defines a life forever?” It is an epic based on the magnificent and true story of courageous Red Cross women. (Amazon, 2023)

“Good Night, Irene” – In 1943, Irene Woodward abandons an abusive fiancé in New York to enlist with the Red Cross and head to Europe. She makes fast friends in training with Dorothy Dunford, a towering Midwesterner with a ferocious wit. Together they are part of an elite group of women, nicknamed Donut Dollies, who command military vehicles called Clubmobiles at the front line, providing camaraderie and a taste of home that may be the only solace before troops head into battle.

After D-Day, these two intrepid friends join the Allied soldiers streaming into France. Their time in Europe will see them embroiled in danger, from the Battle of the Bulge to the liberation of Buchenwald. Through her friendship with Dorothy and a love affair with a courageous American fighter pilot named Hans, Irene learns to trust again. Her most fervent hope, which becomes more precarious by the day, is for all three of them to survive the war intact. Taking as inspiration his mother’s own Red Cross service, Luis Alberto Urrea has delivered an overlooked story of women’s heroism in World War II.