Tag: new books

Cyber Intrigue and Historical Drama: George Mehok’s Debut Novel ‘Going Dark’

‘Going Dark’ is George Mehok’s new novel. Photo: Amazon

Technothrillers merge high-stakes suspense with cutting-edge technology, creating narratives that captivate readers with their intricate plots and believable scenarios. These stories often revolve around themes like cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, or advanced weaponry, reflecting contemporary fears and ethical dilemmas. Authors meticulously research scientific concepts, ensuring authenticity while weaving in thrilling action and unexpected twists. The genre explores the impact of technology on society, often showcasing characters who navigate complex moral landscapes. With their blend of realism and adrenaline, technothrillers not only entertain but also provoke thought about our rapidly evolving technological landscape and its potential consequences. It’s a gripping exploration of innovation and intrigue.

There’s a new book coming out in November that mixes technothrillers, historical fiction, and terrorism storylines: “Going Dark” by George Mehok. This debut thriller spotlights the dangers of the internet and how the past shapes our future. It is recommended for fans of Dan Brown, Steve Berry, and Stephen Hunter.

George Mehok is an author, technologist, and entrepreneur with a distinguished career in designing software and leading high-performing teams in the financial services, telecommunications, and aerospace industries. An avid storyteller, George weaves his real-world knowledge into gripping narratives, crafting thrilling plots that captivate readers. “Going Dark,” the first in Mehok’s Liberty Unit series, combines his extensive technology background with historical intrigue, presenting a captivating blend of modern-day suspense and revolutionary-era secrets. The release date is November 12, and it is available for pre-order on Amazon. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)

“Going Dark” – When a sinister cyber-terrorist scheme poised to plunge America into unparalleled digital darkness surfaces, Paul Knox, a seasoned cyber forensics expert, finds himself thrust into a clandestine conflict spanning generations.

As Knox examines the intricate and dangerous web of cyber intrigue, he confronts both the mission’s high stakes and his personal demons, including the unwitting involvement of his estranged daughter, Emma. Emma becomes a central figure in a game of digital manipulation, where each move carries the potential to reshape history—and change America forever.

Intertwined with this contemporary narrative is the historical origin story of the Liberty Unit. In 1781, amidst the throes of the American Revolution, John “Jack” Jouett embarks on a perilous journey to deliver crucial encoded messages that hold the power to sway the course of the war and safeguard the life of a future American president.

In an era dominated by the internet and malevolent hackers, insidious threats lurk unseen, while the keys to triumph often lie in the past. Effortlessly blending dual timelines, “Going Dark” is a propulsive deep dive into the clandestine world of hacking and terrorism, underscoring the fragility of a society reliant on technology.

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Modern Espionage and Intrigue: ‘The Collaborators’ by Michael Idov

‘The Collaborators’ by Michael Idov will be released November 19, 2024. Photo: Amazon

Spy thrillers immerse readers in a world of espionage, intrigue, and high-stakes adventure. These gripping tales often feature skilled agents navigating a web of deception, betrayal, and covert operations. Classic elements include clandestine meetings, sophisticated technology, and unexpected plot twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Authors like John le Carré and Robert Ludlum masterfully explore the psychological complexities of their characters, blending action with moral dilemmas. From Cold War conspiracies to modern cyber threats, spy thrillers captivate audiences by revealing the shadowy underbelly of international relations and the personal sacrifices made for the greater good. There’s a new espionage/political thriller by Michael Idov that will be released in November, “The Collaborators,” that is sure to become a classic.

Michael Idov is a novelist, director, and screenwriter. A Latvian-born American raised in Riga under Soviet occupation, he moved to New York after graduating from the University of Michigan. Michael’s writing career began at New York magazine, where his features won three National Magazine Awards, and he has also been the editor-in-chief of GQ Russia. He is also the author of “Ground Up” and “Dressed Up for a Riot.” Michael has worked on numerous film and TV projects, including Londongrad, Deutschland 83, Leto, and The Humorist. His new book “The Collaborators” is an electrifying, cutting-edge spy thriller featuring a brilliant young intelligence officer and a troubled heiress who stumble into a global conspiracy that pits Russia against the CIA. It will be released on November 19 and is available for pre-order on Amazon. (Simon & Schuster, 2024)

“The Collaborators” – Combining realistic thrills with sophisticated spycraft and witty dialogue, it delivers a gut-punch answer to the biggest geopolitical question of our time: How, exactly, did post-Soviet Russia turn down the wrong path?

Crisscrossing the globe on the way to this shocking revelation are disaffected millennial CIA officer Ari Falk, thrown into a moral and professional crisis by the death of his best asset, and brash, troubled LA heiress Maya Chou, spiraling after the disappearance of her Russian American billionaire father. The duo’s adventures take us to both classic and surprising locales—from Berlin and Tangier to Latvia, Belarus, and an abandoned technopark outside Moscow.

Dynamic, fast-paced, and filled with captivating details that provide a window into a secretive world, “The Collaborators” is a first-rate thriller that pays homage to both meanings of “intelligence.”

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Fairy Sightings and Whimsical Wisdom: ‘How to Spot a Fairy’ by Sarah Glenn Marsh

‘How to Spot a Fairy’ by Sarah Glenn Marsh. Photo: Amazon

Children’s books about fairies and magical beings spark the imagination, whisking young readers into enchanting worlds filled with wonder. These stories often feature whimsical characters like fairies, elves, and unicorns, teaching valuable lessons about friendship, kindness, and bravery. Through vibrant illustrations and imaginative plots, children explore themes of adventure and discovery, often encountering challenges that require clever thinking and courage. These stories invite readers to believe in the extraordinary, nurture creativity and foster a love for reading, making them cherished staples on any child’s bookshelf. Author Sarah Glenn Marsh has a new children’s book coming out next month that’s all about fairies, sprites, and other such beings.

Sarah Glenn Marsh is the bestselling author of several young adult novels and many picture books. Her Irish heritage has inspired a love of folklore and fantastical storytelling from a young age. She lives with her husband, daughter, four dogs, several fish, and two birds in Richmond, Virginia, and she enjoys spending time with all her pets when she isn’t out roaming the woods in search of a little magic. Her new book “How to Spot a Fairy: A Field Guide to Sprites, Sylphs, Spriggans, and More” is an enchanting, illustrated field guide to finding fairies (and their families) in the wild. It is aimed for children ages 8-12 who enjoy stories about fairies, magical beings, and mythology/folklore. Release date is October 22, 2024. Illustrator: Lilla Bölecz (Running Press Kids, 2024)

Lilla Bölecz is an artist and folklore lover who specializes in graphic art, book illustration, dollmaking, and pattern design. Her work is mostly inspired by mysticism, legends, spiritual experiences, mythology, and literature. Lilla uses both digital and traditional media, including ink, gouache, clay, and acrylics. She is always looking for meaningful connections, and to bring to life the unconventional and unique.

“How to Spot a Fairy” – This compendium explores the history and mythology of fairies and offers information on how/where to find these magical beings. From boggarts and pixies to weeping women, water nymphs, moon maids, and more, this book organizes fairies by habitat and offers tips on how to seek out the mystical beings in our midst. Complete with interactive elements like quizzes (“Which Type of Fairy Are You?”), crafts (“Build Your Own Fairy Garden” and “Make Your Own Fairy Potion”), and recipes (“Brew Your Own Fairy Tea”), there’s endless fun to be had while on the search for fairy folk.

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Reflections on Reality: How ‘Lost in Thought’ Challenges Our Perceptions

‘Lost in Thought’ is Deborah Serra’s new book. Photo: Amazon

Literary fiction explores the complexities of the human experience, often prioritizing character development and thematic depth over plot-driven narratives. The themes are often identity, society, and morality, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives. Another noteworthy work of literary fiction coming out next month is “Lost in Thought” by Deborah Serra. It is available for pre-order on Amazon.

“Lost in Thought” dares us to question our unconscious decisions and ask: Does your mind wander? Where does it go without you? (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)

Deborah Serra was a recipient of the Hawthornden Literary Fellowship and a semifinalist for the Faulkner-Wisdom Creative Writing Award. She has been published in several literary magazines and is an editor with the ethics and short story magazine After Dinner Conversation. She has been nominated for the O. Henry Prize. Deborah has two previously published books, “Primal” (a thriller) and “2 Broads Abroad” (a humorous travel memoir). On assignment, she has written ten TV films and numerous episodes and spent two years on staff. She has worked for Showtime, CBS, NBC, Sony, Fox, and Lifetime. Her new book “Lost in Thought” will be out October 22, 2024.

“Lost in Thought” – Ilana has an enviable job as production manager at the Lyric Opera House, a committed relationship, a cozy Greenwich Village apartment, wonderful friends, and the satisfying feeling of accomplishment. But the questions growing insistent inside her are about to shift the trajectory of her life.

Are Ilana’s questions due to her scientist boyfriend’s research on how people make their decisions, or is she suffering suppressed grief from the death of her mother? Adopted as an infant, she becomes curious about who she would be if she’d grown up with her birth family. Is she truly who she thinks she is? Has she ever freely chosen anything at all?

When Ilana learns that her birth mom owns an Irish pub upstate, well, what could be the harm of stopping in for a drink? Entering the pub has surprising consequences. She’s knocked over in a brawl, and so what begins as curiosity about her origins, evolves into a traumatic shift in her world. After the dust settles, something new takes its place. Something unexpected. Something that looks a lot like freedom.

“Lost in Thought will take you on a fascinating journey between your heart and your mind, your conscious and your unconscious. You won’t stop thinking about what it means for you. What you do next with your own life is up to you…or is it?” —Lawrence Kasanoff, Film Producer True Lies, President, Threshold Entertainment, Production Manager, Platoon, Dirty Dancing

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Transform Your Business: How Mike Dunlop’s ‘The Art of the Turnaround’ Can Revolutionize Your Strategy

‘The Art of the Turnaround’ is the new business strategy guide by Mike Dunlop. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Business books offer invaluable insights into the strategies, principles, and practices that drive successful enterprises. They cover a wide range of topics, from leadership and management to marketing and finance. By studying these books, entrepreneurs and professionals can learn from the experiences of industry leaders, gain practical advice, and understand emerging trends. Titles like “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries and “Good to Great” by Jim Collins provide actionable frameworks for achieving business excellence. Whether you’re starting a new venture or seeking to enhance an established organization, business books serve as a vital resource for growth and innovation. Today’s new book is “The Art of the Turnaround” by Mike Dunlop.

Mike Dunlop has helped restore 34 companies in various stages of financial demise back to profitability. He has worked in the aerospace sector for over four decades and has built a number of aerospace component manufacturing companies, both in Europe and the United States. The largest company he founded, QPM Aerospace, grew to $30 million in sales in the first ten years. Dunlop designed and founded Net-Inspect, the most widely used aerospace quality-management system in the world. He holds four US Patents and has been passionate about airplanes since his first flight on a Vickers Viscount in 1955 at the age of seven. Dunlop is an experienced public speaker and offers his wisdom and stories on his weekly podcast, also entitled The Art of the Turnaround. In his new book “The Art of the Turnaround: A Comprehensive 10-Step Guide,” he shares his experiences helping businesses go from financial straits to profitability. (Shark Party Media, 2024)

“The Art of the Turnaround” – Mike Dunlop shares his proven 10-step method for turning around companies in deep financial distress, which he has used to restore some 34 companies to financial health and profitability. Infused with Dunlop’s down-to-earth humor and deep understanding of how people in companies actually work, especially at a time of crisis. It offers CEOs of troubled companies and leaders who are buying distressed companies a practical way to avoid financial ruin. Dunlop also offers hope that, after the challenging task of turning a money-losing company into a profitable one, life for the CEO as well as those who stay in the company will be enjoyable again.

All proceeds from the sale of “The Art of the Turnaround” and associated speaking engagements will be donated to Eastside Academy and Jubilee Reach.

Author Mike Dunlop. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Exploring Jim Morrison’s Esoteric Legacy in Paul Wyld’s New Book

‘Jim Morrison, Secret Teacher of the Occult: A Journey to the Other Side’ by Paul Wyld. Photo: Amazon

Jim Morrison, the enigmatic frontman of The Doors, was a pioneering figure in rock music, known for his distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence. Born on December 8, 1943, Morrison’s lyrics often explored the themes of existentialism, love, and rebellion, making him a symbol of counterculture in the 1960s. His poetic and provocative performances captivated audiences and influenced countless musicians. Despite his profound impact, Morrison’s life was tragically cut short when he died on July 3, 1971, in Paris at the age of 27. His legacy endures through his innovative contributions to rock music and his status as an iconic cultural figure.

In today’s book news, there’s a new book coming out next month that shines the spotlight on this charismatic rock legend.

Paul Wyld is a singer-songwriter, artist, poet, and author with a liberal arts degree in history. His new book “Jim Morrison, Secret Teacher of the Occult: A Journey to the Other Side” is a journey into the mystical and spiritual side of the famed Doors front man. It will be released on September 10, 2024 (Inner Traditions, 2024)

“Jim Morrison, Secret Teacher of the Occult” – The groundbreaking 1960s band The Doors, named for Aldous Huxley’s The Doors of Perception, achieved incredible acclaim and influence, ultimately serving as a key group in the development of psychedelic and progressive rock. At the center of it all was front man Jim Morrison, who died in 1971 at age 27. Yet, as author Paul Wyld reveals, despite Morrison’s reputation as a lewd, drunken performer, he was a full-fledged mystical, shamanic figure, a secret teacher of the occult who was not merely central to the development of rock music, but also to the growth of the Western esoteric tradition as a whole.

Wyld looks at the mystical works that inspired Morrison, including Kurt Seligmann’s The Mirror of Magic, Colin Wilson’s The Outsider, and the writings of Nietzsche and Jack Kerouac. Drawing on Morrison’s lyrics and poems, his intimate writings, and the recollections of friends like photographer Paul Ferrara and Doors keyboard player Ray Manzarek, the author makes the case that Morrison was not simply a superficial dabbler in the occult but an actual secret teacher transmitting knowledge through the golden thread stretching back to Egypt and Thoth-Hermes.

Explaining how Morrison sought to use his role as a rock singer to express the power of inner experience, Wyld shows how praxis was at the heart of Morrison’s approach, revealed in his journey through the arduous ordeals of shamanic initiation. He was a shaman, mystic, and sage—and an essential part of a great spiritual awakening to which he gave himself over fully.

This book:

• Reveals Jim Morrison as a shamanic initiate and esoteric teacher who used his role as a rock singer to promote the adventure of the spirit and express the power of inner experience

• Examines Morrison’s deep occult and artistic influences, including Kurt Seligmann’s The Mirror of Magic, Colin Wilson’s The Outsider, and the works of Jack Kerouac

• Draws on Morrison’s lyrics and poems, his intimate writings, and the recollections of friends like photographer Paul Ferrara and Doors keyboard player Ray Manzarek

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Finding Connection and Healing in ‘Return To Me’ by Linda Lopez

‘Return To Me: A House Divided’ by Linda Lopez

“Return To Me: A House Divided” is the story of Ethan Salmanaire who had a rough childhood. While still young, he meets Melodia Procaccini Licciardello and eventually they get married and have children of their own. Along the way, they open their home to several children who were either abandoned or abused. Theirs is a complicated story filled with secrets, strained family relationships, and personal struggles.

This novel is a combination of literary fiction and family drama that explores the complexities of loyalty, love, and legacy. The writing is rich with detail: “The excitement is her voice traveled like a breeze in a meadow through Giovanni’s hair, more so in a concerning manner;” while the narrative emphasizes the themes of reconciliation and personal growth, painting a portrait of a family struggling to heal in the midst of external and internal conflicts. The topics of reconciliation and self-discovery are handled with sensitivity, encouraging readers to reflect on their own relationships.

Ethan and Melodia’s journey is poignant and insightful and told through multiple perspectives, allowing readers to experience the chaos and conflicting loyalties each character faces. The characters are richly developed, with their individual struggles making them relatable and real. The pacing is steady, with tension building as the family confronts their shared history.

Overall, “Return to Me: A House Divided” is a thought provoking and heartfelt tale about the power of family ties and the resilience needed to mend them. Focused on the power of love and the enduring bonds of family, it is recommended for readers interested in the complexities of human relationships, particularly siblings and blended families.

“The empty cups shimmered in the sunlight that seeped through the window as we spoke at the table. It was unsettling, unreal. Expecting nothing was new to me because, for the first time, all the administrators of oppression were gone.”

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Navigating the Universe of ‘Loka’: An Insightful Review of S.B. Divya’s Futuristic Novel

‘Loka’ (The Alloy Era Book 2) is the new hard science fiction novel by S.B. Divya. Photo: Amazon

S.B. Divya is the Hugo- and Nebula-nominated author of “Meru” in the Alloy Era series, “Machinehood,” “Runtime,” and the short-story collection “Contingency Plans for the Apocalypse and Other Possible Situations.” Her stories have been published in various magazines, such as Analog and Uncanny; on Tor.com; and in several anthologies, including Seasons Between Us and Rebuilding Tomorrow. She 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 is “Loka (The Alloy Era Book 2),” finding a place to belong becomes a girl’s ambitious quest. It is a thrilling epic about space, humanity, and self-discovery. (Amazon, 2024)

“Loka” – Sixteen year old Akshaya is the hybrid daughter of Jayanthi (from the first book “Meru”), a human mother, and Vara, an alloy – a genetically engineered posthuman. She’s the future of life on the planet Meru, but Akshaya has other plans. Before choosing where her future lies, she wants to circumnavigate the most historic orb in the universe—the birthplace of humanity: Earth.

Akshaya’s parents reluctantly agree to her participation in the Anthro Challenge – one with no assistance from alloy devices, transport, or wary alloys themselves who manage humanity and the regions of Earth called Loka. It’s just Akshaya, her equally bold best friend, Somya, and a carefully planned itinerary, traveling continent by continent across a wondrous terrain of things she’s never seen before including blue skies, sunrises, snowcapped mountains, and roiling oceans.

As the adventure unfolds, the travelers discover love and new friendships, but they also learn the risks of a planet that’s not entirely welcoming. On this journey—exciting, dangerous, and life-changing—Akshaya will discover what human existence really means.

Review:

“Loka” continues the thrilling saga with an imaginative blend of futuristic technology and humanity’s ever present sense of belonging and identity. The story begins with Akshaya and her friends aboard Chedi, a conscious megaconstruct with a cylindrical body traveling through space. It is the only home she has ever known so she is naturally curious about what else is out there. Divya world-building is amazing, as she creates a rich, immersive environment that blends futuristic technology with traditional concepts like family, friends, and relationships, offering a fresh perspective on the genre. The vivid descriptions and innovative technologies bring the story to life, immersing readers in a vividly constructed universe: “…the chromatophores made me a hybrid – altered enough not to be entirely human, but not so different as to count as an alloy.”

The extensive character development makes the characters relevant. Akshaya’s internal conflicts and growth are portrayed with depth and empathy, making her journey both engaging and relatable. Everything she is experiencing along the way is new to her, so her reactions are emotional: “I listened to the sound of raindrops outside, the wind spattering them in bursts every few minutes. A rainstorm!” The plot unfolds with a series of unexpected twists and turns, maintaining a brisk pace while exploring thought-provoking themes about humanity’s relationship with technology and nature. The secondary characters also receive significant attention, enriching the narrative and adding layers to the central plot. The narration is in the first person point of view through Akshaya’s eyes and the language is easy to understand.

Overall, “Loka” is a thought-provoking and imaginative read that will appeal to fans of speculative fiction and those interested in the intersection of technology and humanity. With its steady pacing and unexpected twists, it offers a compelling continuation of the series. It’s a must-read for fans of speculative fiction who appreciate a fusion of high-tech and traditional elements, delivering both excitement and thoughtful exploration of its themes: identity, friendship, and perseverance.

“I ached in a hundred places, but I was too exhausted to care. We had crossed the Euphrates, I had survived hours of being alone, and we were together again. In that moment, nothing else mattered.”

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Mastering Conflict: A Deep Dive into Robert Moment’s ‘Conflict Resolution Skills’

‘Conflict Resolution Skills’ is Robert Moment’s new book.

Robert Moment is an ICF Certified Leadership, Executive, Emotional Intelligence, and Peak Performance Coach with over 15 years of experience in coaching and more than 20 years in Fortune 500 corporate roles. He specializes in building high-performing teams and unlocking the potential of leaders. Recognized as a Top LinkedIn Voice in Leadership Development, Robert is dedicated to empowering professionals to excel in their careers and transform their workplaces. His new book “Conflict Resolution Skills: The Proven System for Building Confidence, Communicating Effectively and Resolving Workplace Conflicts with Ease,” he provides a comprehensive guide to turning conflict into a powerful catalyst for growth and innovation. (Amazon, 2024)

“Conflict Resolution Skills” – Drawing on over 15 years of coaching experience and 20-plus years of Fortune 500 work experience, Robert Moment shares strategies that have helped countless teams transform disagreements into opportunities for collaboration and success.

This book is packed with practical tools and techniques that will empower you to:

  • Approach Conflict with Confidence and Grace: Develop the mindset needed to tackle conflicts head-on.
  • Communicate Clearly and Effectively: Master the art of communication, even in the most challenging situations.
  • Build Trust and Foster Empathy: Learn techniques to create understanding and mutual respect among team members.
  • Navigate Difficult Conversations: Discover strategies for de-escalating conflicts, managing emotions, and finding win-win solutions.
  • Enhance Your Leadership Skills: Become a catalyst for positive change and create a harmonious, productive work environment.

Whether you are a manager, employee, or leader striving to improve your interpersonal skills, this book will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to resolve conflicts and drive positive change in your organization. Transform your approach to conflict and unlock the potential within your team. Order your copy today and start your journey towards a more harmonious and productive work environment.

Review:

This book is an invaluable resource for anyone navigating the complexities of workplace dynamics. In this useful guide, Moment organizes conflict resolution into accessible strategies, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned professionals.

He begins by defining conflict as what happens “when individuals possess differing needs, goals, or values, leading to disagreements that can either be personal or systemic within an organization.” Along with that, he explains the various types of conflict and the role that emotions play in it. The book is well organized, featuring clear explanations of core concepts and real-world examples that illustrate each point. The focus is on the importance of building confidence and effective communication, highlighting how these skills are crucial in diffusing tense situations. His step-by-step approach provides readers with actionable techniques, such as active listening and empathetic engagement, which can be immediately applied.

Chapters include:
Introduction
Chapter 1 The Foundation of Conflict Resolution
Chapter 2 Effective Communication Skills for Conflict Resolution
Chapter 3 Understanding Emotions in Conflict Management
Chapter 4 Different Communication Styles and Conflict
Chapter 5 Mastering Leadership Styles for Effective Conflict Resolution
Chapter 6 Conflict Negotiation Strategies for Win-Win Outcomes
Chapter 7 Conflict Resolution Skills: Top 20 Skills Managers Need to Resolve Conflict in the Workplace with Ease
Chapter 8 Mediation Skills for Resolving Conflict
Chapter 9 Resolving Workplace Conflicts: Common Scenarios and Solutions
Chapter 10 Conflict Resolution and Organizational Culture
Chapter 11 Legal and Ethical Considerations in Conflict Resolution
Chapter 12 Self Care and Resilience in Conflict Resolution
Chapter 13 Applying Conflict Resolution Skills Beyond the Workplace
Chapter 14 The Conflict Transformer: 30 Expert Tips to Turn Workplace Challenges into Opportunities
Chapter 15 R.E.S.O.L.V.E™ Your Workplace Conflicts: A Coaching Exercise
Conclusion

Highlights:

Chapter 3: explains the importance of emotional intelligence, especially in yourself because once you acknowledge and understand your own feelings, you can begin to efficiently deal with conflict. Self awareness is key. “Emotions can act like unpredictable waves, crashing down unexpectedly or quietly bubbling beneath the surface, complicating even the simplest interactions.”

Chapter 13: emphasizes how knowing how to deal conflict can be useful outside the workplace, including in the community and in personal relationships. “Effective conflict resolution is not just about finding a quick fix; it can significantly strengthen relationships, enhance mutual understanding, and promote a sense of harmony.”

Each chapter ends with Coaching Questions which further enhance the learning experience. It is an easy read with language that is clear and concise. What I especially liked is the combination of theoretical insights with practical applications, empowering readers to not only resolve conflicts but also foster a more collaborative work environment.

Overall, “Conflict Resolution Skills” is an essential read for anyone seeking to enhance their interpersonal skills. It’s not just about resolving disputes; it’s about cultivating a mindset that promotes understanding and cooperation in the workplace. Though highly recommended for managers, team leaders, and employees seeking to improve their conflict management abilities and create a more positive and productive workplace, anyone outside the work environment can benefit from the practical material.

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Reviving Psychedelic Exploration: ‘Psychedelic Revival’ by Sean Lawlor

‘Psychedelic Revival: Toward a New Paradigm of Healing’ is the new book by Sean Lawlor. Photo: Amazon

Sean Lawlor, LPCC, is an author, traveler, psychedelic therapist, and regular contributor to leading sites on the topic of psychedelics, such as Psychedelics Today and Psychedelic Times. Sean has a master of arts in clinical mental health counseling from Naropa University, and he has been trained in ketamine-assisted therapy, MDMA-assisted therapy, and Internal Family Systems. He currently facilitates ketamine therapy at a clinic in Fort Collins, Colorado. In his new book “Psychedelic Revival,” he invites readers on a journey into the science, spirituality, and the practice of psychedelic healing—a revival of both the first wave of pre-1960s research and ancient healing traditions with plant medicines. (Sounds True, 2024)

Psychedelics have tremendous healing potential, yet all evocative modalities should be handled with care. To make good choices, we need quality information about the prospects and pitfalls of these emerging therapeutic tools. “Psychedelic Revival” is an invaluable resource for navigating this exciting frontier in Western healing.

“Psychedelic Revival” – An expansive, multidimensional odyssey into the history, practice, and potential of psychedelic healing. Now that the stigmas against psychedelic medicine are finally lifting, there’s a lot of curiosity—and confusion—about these powerful compounds.

How can psychedelics be used safely? What are the risks? Can they truly help heal the wide variety of conditions that has garnered such international attention?

Sean Lawlor explains the possibilities and limits of psychedelics, including:

• The Western history of psychedelic medicine and recreational use
• The millennium-spanning legacy of Indigenous plant medicine traditions
• In-depth chapters on psilocybin, LSD, MDMA, ketamine, mescaline, ibogaine, peyote, ayahuasca, DMT, and more
• Practical insights, from microdosing to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy to transformative mystical experiences
• The shadow dimensions of psychedelics—bad trips, scientific stigmatization, inequality of access, and many other essential topics

Backed by solid research and wisdom from firsthand accounts, Lawlor guides readers into the psychedelic landscape, covering treatment methods, realistic benefits, and the legitimate dangers psychedelics can induce. Along the way, he shares exclusive interviews with luminaries such as Michael Pollan, Rick Doblin, Camille Barton, Carl Hart, Jim Fadiman, Rick Strassman, Natalie Ginsberg, Sandor Iron Rope, and many more.