Amazons, Abolitionists and Activists

 Amazons, Abolitionists and Activists: A Graphic History of Women's Fight for Their Rights, Mikki Kendall and A. D'Amico, Ten Speed Press, 2019

In graphic novel form, this book presents the history of women's fight for their rights, from Ancient Egypt to the present.

Lady Xian of China is credited with ending human trafficking in southern China before she died in the year 602. She is still honored today. Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine, who died in 1204, was one of the most powerful rulers in British history. The Dahomey Amazons were an all-female regiment in what is now the Republic of Benin. Started in the 1600's, the regiment lasted until 1894. The book also explores slavery, the women's suffrage movement, the settlement house movement, Margaret Sanger and family planning, the Harlem Renaissance, Jim Crow, Japanese intermittent camps, etc., up to the present day.

This is a gem of a book. For any young person who has been exposed to real American history (more than what is taught in school) and wants to learn more, here is a wonderful place to start.

The Survival Guide for Christians Living In a Fallen World

 The Survival Guide for Christians Living In a Fallen World, Melvin Douglas Wilson, Yorkshire Publishing, 2021

These are difficult times to be a Christian. This book offers some ways to do something about it.

It all starts with the clergy sex abuse scandal (nothing more needs to be said). The author has noticed a rise in the number of rappers, and young people in general, who wear crosses around their necks. These people have little, or no, idea what the cross actually represents. The author has little use for people who consider the cross to be a fashion statement.

The number of Christian cults in America has been rising rapidly in recent years. They may say, and do, all the right things, like advocating equality for all, and helping the poor. Do they read from the Bible? Do they worship God? If not, head for the exit, as fast as you can.

The author gives a brief history of the Peoples Temple, run by Reverend Jim Jones. From the outside, it sounded very liberal and progressive. As time went on, the idea was to worship Jim Jones, not God. Jones learned how to exert nearly total control over the lives of his parishioners. Things ended very badly.

There is also a brief history of Mormonism. The author has nothing against the religion. There are many similarities with Christianity; there are also big differences. Wilson considers it to not be a Christian religion.

The book includes many Bible passages, and other things people can use to stay pointed toward God, when there are many temptations to go in another direction. Yes, this is very much worth the time.

Undercover Lion

 Undercover Lion, Antoinette George, Brangwyn Press, 2021

Part 2 of a series, this novel takes place in early 1800's England and France. Nicholas de Bresancourt is a French duke with no lands or manor house to his name. Living in England, he is an occasional spy against the French, under Napoleon Bonaparte.

Nicky is sent to Spain, to look for a very elusive French agent, who has been causing the British a lot of trouble. His name is Bernheim, a well-known, and very feared, name to Nicky and his adopted family. After several months of diligent searching, Nicky finds Him, and is able to severely disrupt his plans. Nicky almost dies, after being shot by Bernheim.

After months of recuperation, Nicky returns to England, and to Bella, his wife. He learns of Bella's secret identity (read Part 1), and sets new records for being angry. She loves him a lot more than he loves her. Nicky takes out his anger on Bella, sexually, several times.

Suddenly, Nicky travels to France, to see about getting his family's land back, and get his manor house rebuilt. Just as suddenly, he disappears, and no one knows where he is. Bella goes to Paris to look for him. Nicky is still not happy to see her. Bella seriously considers going back to England, when things get deadly serious.

Here is an excellent novel. After four books in a previous series, and two books in this series, there has been no lessening in the quality of the storytelling. There is lots of good writing, and this is very much recommended.

The History of the Future

 The History of the Future: Oculus, Facebook and the Revolution That Swept Virtual Reality, Blake J Harris, Dey St. Books, 2019

Over the past twenty or thirty years, virtual reality has become something of a joke. Many companies promised that they would be the one to make it a reality; all have failed. A California teenager named Palmer Luckey was determined to do something about it.

In 2012, he turned the trailer he was living in, sitting in his parents' driveway, into a VR workshop. Teaming up with legendary game designer John Carmack, early demos of the headset were very favorable. Gathering a colorful group of fellow employees, they decided on Oculus as a company name. Thus began the usual entrepreneurial journey of ups and downs. Reactions to the Oculus headset from those who tried it, continued to remain very favorable (the phrase "game changer" was a common reaction. Their Kickstarter campaign was very successful.

The company was eventually sold to Facebook for more than two billion dollars. The reaction of many in the hardcore gamer community was outright hostility. In 2016, Luckey did something very normal and reasonable (and very legal), but which created a public relations firestorm. Luckey became the most hated man in America. Things did not end well for him.

This is a wonderful book. For anyone who has ever dreamed of virtual reality, this is a must read. It also works very well as a purely business book. Maybe virtual reality's time has (finally) come. This is very highly recommended.

Artificial Intelligence: A Very Short Introduction

 Artificial Intelligence: A Very Short Introduction, Margaret A Boden, Oxford University Press, 2018

Many advances in artificial intelligence have been made over the past several years, starting with Siri and Alexa. This book gives the details.

The science of AI involves many other sciences, including neurophysiology, logic and psychology. A major problem is how to present a problem, or a question, to a computer in a way that the computer will understand. Another problem is how to show things like emotion and creativity. What is consciousness? Is intelligence more than just IQ or the Turing Test?

Robot designs have had better luck creating robots that resemble insects, with six or eight legs, than in creating robots that look human, with two legs. When is The Singularity coming? When is Skynet coming? The general answer from this book is: not anytime soon.

This is a very well done introduction to the world of artificial intelligence. Some of it gets rather technical, but most of it is good for the general reader. It is very much recommended for anyone who wants an introduction to AI. Veterans of the field might also learn a thing or two.

The Machine Murders

 The Machine Murders: Island Buoys, CJ Abazis, Publisto Ltd., 2021

Set on the Greek island of Mykonos, this novel is about a man named Manu Manos. He is Greek, and works for Interpol in Singapore. He is attending the destination wedding of his roommate from Stanford, and there is an international conference on criminology also happening on the island.

A dead body is found, underwater, killed in a particularly gruesome way. The local police are better at handling drunk tourists than investigating a murder. Manu becomes the official head of the investigation, even though he is more comfortable with data sets and probabilities than interrogating suspects. 

As Interpol's computers scour the world of social media, and start to reduce the suspect list, another body is found, and another. There is seemingly no connection between the victims. Manu is continuously in contact with Singapore, where, interestingly, a copycat killer is found.

Suddenly, Lena, Manu's girlfriend, and the bride, have disappeared. Can Manu find them before they get added to the victim list?

Here is a gem of a story. It has plenty of suspense, an exotic location and dead bodies. This will keep the reader reading long past bedtime. 

The Drive-In: The Bus Tour

 The Drive-In: The Bus Tour, Joe R. Lansdale, Subterranean Press, 2005

Part three of a series, this is about a group of people living at a drive-in theater after an unspecified apocalypse.

Their school bus has some gas in its tank, so some of them decide on a road trip to see if anyone else is out there. A very swollen river picks up the school bus, and deposits it in the ocean. Way off in the distance is what looks like a suspension bridge, like the Golden Gate Bridge. The current is slowly sending them in that direction. Before they can get there, the bus is swallowed by a giant catfish. 

The travelers find a group of humans living inside the catfish. The fish is partly artificial, like the builders didn't finish the job. The humans have also reverted to cannibalism. As the days go on, the travelers get the impression that the natives (for lack of a better word) are looking at them, not as friends or allies, but as lunch.

There are only two ways out of a giant fish, or other large animal. Going through the mouth means fighting their way past the natives. The travelers choose the alternate route. Do the travelers make it out of the fish alive? Is there to be a Part Four to this series?

Here is some serious horror, so this is not for the faint of heart. It's nice and weird, with lots of satire, and good writing. It is also full of poo, lots and lots of poo. For horror fans, this is very much worth the time

The Big Nine

 The Big Nine: How the Tech Titans and Their Thinking Machines Could Warp Humanity, Amy Webb, Public Affairs Books, 2019

This book is all about the present state of artificial intelligence (AI). It is a lot more than just Alexa and smart thermostats.

China has made no secret of its plan to be the world leader in AI in the next few years. They are spending hundreds of billions of dollars at it. They are also building alliances with countries all over the developing world that may be rich in natural resources, but have not much infrastructure. America's response is to cut federal funding for basic scientific research, walk away from international treaties and alliances, and build a wall to keep people out of America.

Despite all the talk about getting women into STEM fields, AI is still very much of a boy's club. The percentage of women in the field is pretty dismal, and, for people of color, the numbers are even worse. The author presents three scenarios for the future of AI. Does America "get it," and build international alliances, on the way to becoming the world leader? Does China become the world leader, and control or occupy, the whole world, including America?

What can America do about it? Get away from the requirement that a company like Google or Apple must release a new AI gadget each year, or the stock price plummets. It takes time to do AI properly. Colleges currently restrict AI students to just technical courses. It must be possible for students to do a double major, like AI and politics. Ethics should be a central part of the curriculum, not just a one-semester course.

This book is very easy to read for everyone, not just people in the AI field. This easily reaches the level of Required Reading, in the classroom and the boardroom. 

Supreme Damages: Rescuing Representative Government from Judicial Overreach

 Supreme Damages: Rescuing Representative Government from Judicial Overreach, Thurman Leonard Smith, Independently Published, 2021

For many years, there have been complaints about the US Supreme Court. Under conservative and liberal majorities, it has been accused of judicial overreach, or simply going too far. It's job is supposed to be to interpret existing law and the US Constitution. It is not supposed to make new laws. That's what this book is all about.

Roe v. Wade is here, along with Bush v. Gore. National Federation of Independent Business et al. v. Sebelius (the individual mandate of the Affordable Care Act) is also here.

Have you ever wondered how children born on American soil, even if their parents are undocumented, can automatically become US citizens? That comes from a case called Plyler v. Doe.

If a state wants to change the law about public morality, for instance, the right way to do it is to go through the state legislature, or by holding a state-wide referendum. Using the courts is not the way to do it. Lawrence v. Texas, in 2003, legalized same-sex sexual activity. That led to 2015's Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage, nationwide.

The Comprehensive Crime Control Act allows law enforcement agencies to divide seized cash and other assets. The threshold for suspicion is extremely low, and encourages law enforcement to abuse the power. It's called civil asset forfeiture. In Bennis v. Michigan, a man had sex with a prostitute in the back of his car. The car was "guilty," so it, and not the owner, was punished (the car was forfeited).

This is a very interesting book. The author sticks to the facts as much as possible, chronicling the travels of a case through the legal system. For those whose only exposure to Supreme Court cases is through TV news reports. this book is well worth checking out.  

World of Engineering

 World of Engineering: Historical Development, Challenges and Strategies in Modern Society, Baruch Karp (et al.), Samuel Neaman Institute, 2021

The field of engineering (which covers many sub-fields) has two important aspects: science and design & art. This book also looks at the history of engineering, along with engineering at the present time.

Th science part is pretty self-explanatory. The design & art part comprises competencies like decision-making, creativity, societal considerations, self-learning and teamwork.

This book explores the missions of engineers during the lifetime of a system, sub-specializations that cross disciplines and the engineering hierarchy. Failure is a part of life in the engineering world. Did just one part fail, or was the whole system a bad idea? It's also important to learn from past experience. The book also looks the history of engineering education, from before the Scientific Revolution to the present day.

Here is a very specialized book. For anyone involved in the engineering world, whether student or actual engineer, this book is well worth checking out. For the average reader, well, maybe not. This book gets 4.5 stars.

Broad Band: The Untold Story of the Women Who Made the Internet

 Broad Band: The Untold Story of the Women Who Made the Internet, Claire L Evans, Portfolio/Penguin, 2018

The history of computers has always thought to be full of men doing amazing things. This book shows that plenty of women were involved, from the beginning.

Ada Lovelace and Grace Hopper make appearances in this book, along with the "ENIAC Six." They were six women who did the actual "programming" of ENIAC, housed at the University of Pennsylvania, in the mid-1940s. It involved actually moving, and reconnecting, sections of the room-sized computer for each new computation. During the war, a computer was a woman who sat at a table and computed ballistics trajectories by hand. There was no ENIAC manual to consult, so they got very good at knowing how it worked. They also got none of the public credit. After the war, the women, plus Hopper, moved to the Eckert-Mauchly Computer Company, the world's first big computer company. After a few years of being very busy, financial problems forced the company to sell itself to another company. Remington-Rand made business machines and didn't know what to do with computers (or these free-thinking women). Things did not end well for the women.

In 1980s New York City, Stacy Horn loved connecting to the WELL, the famous West Coast BBS (bulletin board system). But the long-distance phone bills were getting out of hand. So she started ECHO, one of the first social networks, out of her apartment. 

Girls like playing computer games just as much as boys (perhaps with less emphasis on death and explosions). Some game manufacturers noticed, and tried to take advantage of this untapped market.

This is an excellent book. It expertly punches holes in the all-male mythology of Silicon Valley. For anyone interested in how the future is really made, start here. 

A People's History of Computing in the United States

 A People's History of Computing in the United States, Joy Lisi Rankin, Harvard University Press, 2018

Long before the days of Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, America had an active computer culture centered around academic computing. This book tells the story.

In the 1960s, computer usage involved batch processing. A person would type a program on punch cards, hand them to an operator, and wait several hours, or overnight, for the result. At Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, time-sharing made it possible for for multiple terminals, actually teletype machine, to interact with the computer, a GE mainframe, at the same time. A person could now get their answer in minutes, instead of hours. The network grew to include colleges and all-male prep schools all over New England. The BASIC computer language was developed to give the average person the ability to actually do computer programming. 

Minnesota was already familiar with computers, being the home of corporations like Honeywell and Control Data. Starting with a connection to the Dartmouth computer, a state-wise high school and college computer system was developed. It was started by using a mainframe owned by the Pillsbury Corporation.

While the system that became ARPANET was having compatibility problems, a parallel system called PLATO, centered at the University of Illinois, was humming along quite nicely. It had terminals with working touch screens. It also had all the elements of a present-day online community, including email, file sharing, computer games, flame wars and gender discrimination.

This book shows that there is a big difference between a history of computing and a history of computers. It is very easy to read and understand. It is also eye-opening in that it shows that the stereotype of computers being an all-male field is not accurate. This is very much worth reading.

Weapons of Math Destruction

 Weapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy, Cathy O'Neil, Crown Publishing, 2016

Big data and algorithms are supposed to be the "savior" of our modern world. With them, a corporation, or a government, is supposed to be able to measure and analyze nearly anything. What if those algorithms are very flawed?

Among the suggestions to fix American education is to get rid of bad teachers. Standardized test scores are one way to find those bad teachers. What if the students didn't learn the basics of math, for instance, in a lower grade? What if the teachers in that lower grade blatantly corrected the standardized tests, before submitting them, to make themselves look better? If the test scores for a class are not as good as the algorithm predicted, then that teacher is out the door.

Crime prediction software sounds like a godsend to cash-strapped police departments. Why not concentrate resources in areas where there is predicted to be a better chance of crime, instead of everywhere? If the police department includes "nuisance" crime, like underage drinking or pot smoking in public, the algorithm will send units to that neighborhood on an increased basis. If it happens to be a minority neighborhood, and is otherwise law-abiding, the residents can expect more incidences of "stop and frisk." Again, changing that algorithm is not possible. 

At work, it is not possible to change the algorithm that makes the schedule for the employees because this person has transportation issues or that person has child care issues. "Clopening" is when an employee of Starbucks, for instance, closes the store at 11 PM, then has to return in a few hours to open up the next morning, and work a full shift. 

Algorithms have their good and bad parts. The biggest bad part is that there is no way to change them, and get them to conform to the real world. Written by a data scientist, this book is a big eye-opener and is very much worth reading.  

Midlife Alchemy

 Midlife Alchemy, Kate Swansea, Independently Published, 2021

Elise Clair is a married dentist, working with her husband, also a dentist, in the Upper Midwest. At the same time that she catches him fooling around with a couple of his dental assistants, she gets a strange and unsolicited job offer. A town called Black Lake Falls, Washington, needs a town dentist. Elise gets on a plane.

The first thing she notices is that the town is protected by magical wards. Elise knows her way around the worlds of witches and "real" magic, having been taught by her mother. The town is built around a portal between this world, and the world of the umbra, which are hideous, carnivorous creatures. Elise is given an amulet to wear. It is the portal's (called the paraval) early warning system, flashing whenever there is a breach. 

A major breach occurs, and the umbra pour into the town, looking for a way into the wider world. This forces all the townspeople into the well-lit town square (umbra don't like bright light). They can't stay there forever. Elise comes up with a surprisingly easy way to kill umbra. Is the "invasion" thwarted, and the paraval closed again? Do the townspeople return to "normal" life?

This is a first-rate piece of writing. It is just weird enough, without being too weird. It has lots of good storytelling, with good characters. This is an excellent start to a series.

Where Secrets Lie

 Where Secrets Lie, Ebony Kent, Independently Published, 2013

 

Kara Everitt is a newly-minted police detective. Her target is the Caswell family, a very secretive local family. They are suspected in several unsolved crimes over the years, including the murder of Kara's parents. Alyssa, her younger sister, is totally infatuated with them.

At a fancy party in her honor, Kara, impulsively, offers to serve the Caswells. Michael, the family patriarch, makes Kara his own personal pet. She quickly learns that they really are vampires. As time goes on, a bond forms between Kara and Michael. She struggles with her duties as a detective and as a sister. Can Kara save her sister from the Caswells? Can Kara save herself?

This is an interesting story. It's got vampires and romance, and some good plot twists. For vampire fans, this is worth reading.

Escape to the Stars

 Escape to the Stars, Mark Sneed, ABM Publications, Inc., 2021

 

In this story, Earth is no longer habitable, and what's left of humanity is in two small settlements orbiting Saturn and Neptune. Finding other habitable planets is very important to the Interstellar Committee.

The Galactic Space Marines (mostly teenagers) are sent to rescue stranded scientists, and their equipment, on a newly discovered planet. The animals who inhabit the planet should pose no problem. Just a quick rescue mission, right?

Drake, a mechanic, is contacted by the planet's governing intelligence. It asks for his help in a planetary war for survival. Do the humans help? Does everyone live "happily ever after?"

This turns into a really good book. It takes a while to get "going," but it turns into an enjoyable story with good characters. I hope that this is the start of a series.

The Brother's Curse

 The Brother’s Curse, Christine M Germain, Independently Published, 2020

 

A woman named Crystal moves back to her hometown of Lakeview Falls, a year after the murder of her parents. A neighbor's house is being watched by the very handsome Jason Warwick. Just before her 25th birthday, Crystal receives an antique purple amethyst necklace, left to her by her mother. It is not just any necklace. A pair of 18th century brothers, who are also shapeshifters, will stop at nothing to get the necklace, including murder. It holds two dozen shapeshifters captive, including their father. Is Jason one of the shapeshifter brothers?

This is a really interesting story. It has good characters, enough gore and horror (without going too far) and some good storytelling. It is very much worth reading.

Gastric Band Hypnosis for Women

 Gastric Band Hypnosis for Women, Sally Garner, Independently Published, 2021

 

You have tried every diet and weight-loss plan that is available, and nothing has worked. Have you considered using your mind to change your relationship to food, and help you get, and stay, healthy? That's what this book is all about.

The book explores how hypnosis can help overcome negative self-talk and bad emotions related to weight loss. You have permission to delete the words "clean your plate," in your mother's voice, from your brain. The author goes through the entire gastric band hypnosis process (there is no clucking like a chicken). The book includes recommended diets while going through the therapy, and what to do after the therapy ends. There are also affirmations, to help keep you, and your brain, on the right path.

Here is an easy to understand book that is full of information. For anyone with weight problems, this is really worth considering. It get 4 to 4.5 stars.

Dragon Rider Prophecy: A Journey Begins

 Dragon Rider Prophecy: A Journey Begins, Andrew Wichland, Independently Published, 2020

 

This fantasy novel is about Logan and Johanna, your average college co-eds. They were adopted by a good family, and want to live ordinary lives. That is, until a shared dream shows them their destiny, and that "ordinary" is no longer an option.

The pair must deal with their growing abilities, get proper training, and face incredible danger. Learning how to ride a dragon is also involved. Logan and Johanna have little choice in the matter; the fate of the whole world is at stake.

Here is a story with good characters and grand imagination. There is good world-building, and plenty of action. Who doesn't love a story with dragons? Fantasy fans will love this book.

Dr. Sebi Green Smoothie

 Dr. Sebi Green Smoothie, Howard Fuller, Independently Published, 2021

 

Everyone has heard of green smoothies. Are they really as healthy as advertised? This book attempts to answer that question.

Most major diseases, like autoimmune disease and diabetes, result from the body's pH level being too acidic. A plant-based diet will bring the pH level back to normal (about 7.3), along with helping to lose weight and rejuvenate the body. More than just drinking smoothies is needed to lose weight. The book also suggests drinking LOTS of water, staying away from the microwave, re-stocking your pantry with healthier foods, and, occasionally, rewarding yourself. When going on an outing, don't be afraid to bring a supply of smoothies with you. The book explores foods to avoid, including processed foods, dairy, alcohol, fried foods and soy products.

This is a useful guide with lots of information. Most people may consider this book to be common knowledge, but it is still good to have. If the reader can only start to move in the direction of Healthy Eating, this book will have been successful. It is very much worth reading.

An Unusual Courtship

 An Unusual Courtship, Antoinette George, Brangwyn Press, 2020

 

Second in a series, this book is set in the 1790s. Marie-Catherine and her family are safely In England, having barely escaped from France. Their rescuer, a shadowy figure called The Shadow, must say his goodbyes. Marie-Catherine is heartbroken, and angry. She picks herself up, and sets about the task of finding a husband who is willing to take care of her refugee family.

Meantime, The Shadow (his real name is Francis) is never far away. He wants to tell Marie-Catherine who he really is, but it is never the right time. He can't just walk up to her and say "Hi, remember me?" She will probably try to kill him (literally). Francis must court her properly, which involves attending many masked balls, and many boorish and suggestive statements from him. Does he get her back? Does Marie-Catherine try to kill him?

Normally, I am not a reader of historical, swashbuckling romances, but this one is different. It is very easy to get totally involved in the story. The book has lots of good writing, along with many twists & turns. This is very much recommended.

Protocols of Money: A Primer on the History and Evolution of Money

 Protocols of Money: A Primer on the History and Evolution of Money, Shiv Mehta, ChapterOne.ai, 2021

 

This book is all about money (everyone's favorite subject). It does not discuss how to make money, but it talks about the history and concept of money. It looks at how money has changed, from the barter system, to gold, to coins, and then to paper money. After that, there was plastic money, and now, there is cryptocurrency.

The author attempts to answer many common financial questions. What is a financial market? How do banks trade currencies? What are bonds? The author also looks at some recent financial history, including the causes of the Great Depression and the Great Recession. The spends a lot of time explaining cryptocurrency.

This book doesn't get into investing, but, for anyone considering it, reading this book is a very good idea. It may take some patience on the part of the reader, but it is full of information, and does a good job explaining the world of money.

The Art of Mindlessness

 The Art of Mindlessness, Levi Ouwendijk, Depaix Library, 2021

 

This book is a series of short meditations on the subjects of zen and meditation. It includes titles like The Medium of Thought, The Empty Mind, The Meditative State and The Great Attainment of Nothing.

It attempts to show that it is wrong that there is just one "proper" way to do meditation. Thinking of the world in absolutes of right and wrong limits the full experience of existence. The world seems to be full of breathing exercises and other ways to reach enlightenment.

Meditation will not, by itself, lead a person to enlightenment. If a person happens to attain it, then they had the right qualities already inside them. Meditation is about an awareness in the very feature of being.

This book is best for those who already know their way around the worlds of zen and meditation; it is not a beginner's book. It will take some patience on the part of the reader. If it opens the mind of the reader, even a little bit, to other ways of thinking, it will have done its job. It gets at least 4 stars.

Dark Town

 Dark Town, K de Leo, Zameret Ltd., 2021

 

This teen fantasy is about Jessica Sullivan, who moves, with her parents, to a small town in the middle of nowhere. She makes several friends at school, and falls for the most gorgeous guy in town. Life is good.

Jessica learns that the town also has some dark secrets, that threaten the lives of everyone in town, including her parents. The secrets involve the Black Plague of the 1300's. Things get spooky when Jessica starts hearing screams at night, that no one else can hear. She is attacked by an anonymous person with an axe. Her parents are skeptical, to say the least. The town's annual Harvest Fair is coming up. Jessica learns, to her horror, that a different kind of "harvest" is planned (a human "harvest").

This is a very good teen chiller/horror story. It may take a while to get "going," but it is the sort of tale that could take place almost anywhere. This will certainly keep the interest of the reader.

The Ecstatic Stock Market

 The Ecstatic Stock Market, David Rasmussen, Spinning Penny Media, 2021

 

Everyone wants to understand why the present-day stock market acts the way it does, The author uses his many years of investing experience, and his study of subjects like game theory, physics and chaos theory, to attempts an explanation.

Throughout history, there have been many financial bubbles, going back to the Tulip Bubble of the 1600's. Over time, the life of these bubbles has gotten shorter and shorter. The author asserts that we are currently in the biggest bubble of our lifetime. The 2007 Real Estate Bubble and the current Bitcoin Bubble are part of a much bigger bubble. No bubble lasts forever. When will this bubble pop? Read the book.

This is a very specialized book; it is not a Beginner's book. It is different in that it explores fractals, evolution, and the writings of Terence McKenna, Ray Kurzweil and James Joyce. For experienced investors who want an idea as to what is coming, here is a very good place to start.

Waking Up Rich: The Secret CIA Bitcoin Project That Became a Trillion-Dollar Trojan Horse

 Waking Up Rich: The Secret CIA Bitcoin Project That Became a Trillion-Dollar Trojan Horse, James Robb, Independently Published, 2021

This novel is all about bitcoin, which was created by the CIA. It was discovered to provide incredible insight into the finances of the world's terrorists and rogue nations.

Another North Korean missile test has failed. Those of the scientists who are still alive know that another failure Will Not Be Tolerated. They alert North Korean agents all over the world, looking for very specific components. The CIA subtly guides them toward specific suppliers. One of the components just happens to be in the basement of MI5 Headquarters in London. There is also a man who has been in a coma for the past year. He created an algorithm to make bitcoin mining much easier, and faster, than at present. Lots of people want what is in his head; it could be worth billions of dollars.

This is a gripping, and very up-to-the-minute story. It moves very quickly, and is easy to read. This tale will keep the reader up very late at night.

Buenos Aires Triad

 Buenos Aires Triad, F E Beyer, National Library of New Zealand, 2021

 

Set in present-day Argentina, Lucas is an ordinary watch-seller. He moonlights for one of the Chinese criminal gangs operating in the capital. This particular gang is responsible for a brazen daylight robbery that left a British tourist dead. Such an attack can be bad for "business." The Argentine President orders the police to find those responsible, at all costs.

Lucas wants out of the gang; easier said than done. His "job" is to collect extortion money from Chinese-owned supermarkets, and throw Molotov cocktails at those who refuse to pay. Then the police arrest Boss Ping, the overall leader of the Chinese triads, at home. Can Lucas stay out of prison? Can Lucas stay away from an anonymous bullet in the back of the head, because someone thinks he may "talk?"

This is a very entertaining story. The author does a fine job of putting the reader right in the middle of Buenos Aires. I hope there is a Part 2 coming soon.

Jane Digby's Diary: To Begin, Begin

 Jane Digby's Diary: To Begin, Begin, C.R. Hurst, Independently Published, 2018

 

First of a series, this book is based on the life of a real person. In the early 1800's, Jane seemed destined for the life of a high class, well bred Englishwoman. Her marriage, while still a teenager, to Lord Ellenborough, eventually fell apart. She felt abandoned, whether in London, or at their country estate, while he spent his days dealing with business, or being a Member of Parliament.

Jane had a child with her lover, but they never married. She traveled to different European cities, staying with friends, while she considered her future. Does she return to England, and attempt some "damage control" on her reputation? Does she continue to travel, not caring what other people think?

This book is in diary form, so it may not be for everyone. It is still an interesting tale of someone who broke away from the rock solid social "rules" of Regency England, to find her own way in life. It is very much worth reading.

Critical Asset

 Critical Asset, Ian Tonnessen, Hardshot Publishing, 2021

In the year 2065, the Second Cold War is in full swing. The world is divided into military alliances with names like the Democratic Alliance and the United Caliphate. Dirac Station is a very secretive space station at one of Earth's Lagrange Points (look it up). It makes Earth's entire supply of antimatter, which has made colony ships to other stars much more possible. Antimatter is also extremely unstable, which is why the station has to be a long way away from Earth.

The country of Turkey is involved in an attack on Dirac Station. Does the Turkish government intend to weaponize some of that antimatter? Do ant-government rebels want to blame Turkey for the attack, and push America to take out Turkey's fascist government, permanently? Can the ensuing war be kept quick and local, or is Earth looking at World War III?

The USS Lincoln, with its Captain Jaana Pierce, is the only vessel in a position to fight the attackers. Many pitched battles are fought on the station. As the world edges closer to all-out war, Pierce risks her life, and pushed the limits of her duty, to end the rapidly approaching crisis.

This is an excellent novel. It has Blockbuster Movie written all over it. The author is a former intelligence analyst, so it feels very plausible. It has everything a reader could want: a combination of politics and near-future science fiction, violence, action and approaching nuclear war. Here is a story that is very much recommended.

Forbidden Choices

 Forbidden Choices, Samantha Jenson, Independently Published, 2021

Do you remember those Choose Your Adventure books from when you were younger? Here is a new one, but, this one is not for children.

It's about a young woman named Lilith, raised by her aunt in a small village. Things like magic and elves are just stories. Depending on the path through the book, Lilith meets her mother, for the first time, in a very unexpected place. There is a rebellion going on, with humans, dwarves and orcs together, against elves. Lilith makes contact with the rebels. Because she is half-elf, she is not exactly welcome. The leaders of the rebellion cannot conclusively determine that she is an elf spy. They also can't conclusively determine that is she is not an elf spy, either. What do they do?

This book is very entertaining, and easy to read. It also has a lot of detailed sexual encounters. On several different levels, this book will very much keep the interest of the reader.

Social Skills for Teens

 Social Skills for Teens, Discover Press, 2021

Growing up can be the most difficult years of a person's life, even under the best of circumstances. This book aims to make the process a little easier.

Your best friend goes to the movies without asking if you want to go, too. At school, a group of your friends are looking at you, while whispering to themselves. Instead of assuming that it is because you are fat, ugly and a total waste of oxygen, Ask Them. The explanation may not involve you at all.

This book includes ways to boost your self-confidence, and exercises that will reduce, or eliminate, anxiety. It is possible to build real relationships by being your best self; it's better than having lots of "friends" online.

Here is a really good book on navigating the teen years. If this book can nudge the average teen into thinking differently, or actually start changing their life, by only a few percent, it will have done its job. This is well worth checking out.

The Writing on the Wall: We Are the Guests

 The Writing on the Wall: We Are the Guests, Aharon Gonik, Independently Published, 2021

Looking at all of human history, the author asserts that mankind's future disasters may be because of nature "fighting back" against humanity.

Homo sapiens, that arrived in Africa about 200,000 years ago, is a cancerous mutation, with its much larger brain. Other creatures have had to adapt to nature, in order to survive. Homo sapiens was the first to bend nature to its will, and then spread all over the world.

In the past three centuries, there has been a huge improvement in man's standard of living, based on fossil fuels. Someday, maybe in 50 years, maybe in 100 years, those supplies will run out. Mankind will then revert to a horse and buggy world. Perhaps, COVID is nature's way of getting revenge on mankind for the things it has done to the planet.

How can humanity achieve a 50 percent reduction in CO2 emissions over the next two centuries? Get out of oil and coal, immediately. Many nuclear power plants must be built (evidently, fast breeder reactors are safe). Plant-based, or other artificial meat substitutes must be found. All that land, and water, used for livestock can be used for something else. All vehicles on the roads will run on electricity, or hydrogen or batteries. Only inter-continental airplane flights will be allowed. Travel within America, for example, will be by bullet train.

Does anyone remember the early days of the pandemic? Because the world was shut down, the air actually got cleaner, and dolphins were sighted swimming in the canals of Venice (for the first time in many years).

This is a very informative book, that is highly recommended for everyone. 

The Shadowverse

 The Shadowverse, J.C. Gallo, Independently Published, 2018

This book is about average college student Johnny Sparks, and his friends. An encounter with a mysterious stranger has given them all superhero-level powers.

Things get serious when Rose, one of the group, is taken by an alien warlord named Titan. He is the sort of being who aims to bring his brand of peace and tranquility to the galaxy, one planet at a time. Killing millions of innocent people to get control of a planet doesn't bother him. Earth is next on his list. The rest of the group travels many light years to get help from a legendary ex-samurai named Lung, who has been missing for centuries. Lung is the only person to have killed Titan in the past. Can this informal group of friends, and new superheroes, defeat the most powerful being in the galaxy? Can they get Rose back, body and soul?

This teen novel is very well done. The characters are very relatable, and there is enough action for anyone. There is lots of good writing in this story that would make a really good movie. 

A Morsel of Happiness

 A Morsel of Happiness, Javad Saffarzadeh, Independently Published

In the past, a number of people have asked the author "Why are you so happy all the time?" This book is his attempt at an answer.

He starts by looking at the less-pleasant parts of daily life. On the subject of complaining, it won't change the negative event that has happened. Accept it; let the anger come (and let it go), and focus on solutions. Don't focus too much on the negative; go for a long walk or listen to your favorite music. Temperamental, or negative, people seem to be everywhere. Avoid them when possible; when not possible, come up with your own bad mood prevention system, or they might turn you into them.

On the positive side, the author talks about gratitude. Think of life like cable TV. If a person always watches channels like CNN or Fox News, they can become depressed, angry or paranoid. Everyone needs an occasional Hallmark Movie in their life (figuratively, if not literally) to remind them that the world is not all doom and gloom. Physical activity is a good way to keep depression away. It is important to keep physically and mentally busy (energy begets energy). If you attempt to keep a positive attitude, positive things will happen to you. If you keep a negative attitude, then negative things will happen to you.

This book also summarizes actual scientific studies on these subjects; this is more than just the author's opinion. This is an excellent book, bordering on being an amazing book. Everyone needs some hope or optimism in their life, at one time or another. Here is a wonderful place to start. 

WTF Do I Know?

 WTF Do I Know?, Lawrence Goodman, Independently Published, 2019

This is a compendium of newspaper columns published in a daily newspaper in York County, Pennsylvania. It is a very pro-Trump area; the local congressman is a member of the "Freedom Caucus." The author is not a Trump supporter.

The columns cover many contemporary political issues. The titles include: A 2-Path Plan for Illegal Immigrants; Address the Root Cause of the Abortion Issue; The Homeless Are In Control of Their Own Destiny; Maga Hat is the New Confederate Flag; Real Hunters Don't Need Semi-Automatic Weapons; Wearing a Mask Should Not Be Political; The "Dumbing Down" of America is Now Complete. There are a number of columns on issues local to York County. They are the kind of issues with which everyone in America can identify.

Here is an excellent and very thought-provoking book (that was the author's intention). It is highly recommended for all Americans, regardless of their political beliefs. This gets more than 5 stars.

The Hidden History of American Healthcare

 The Hidden History of American Healthcare, Thom Hartmann, Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Inc., 2021

Why does every major industrialized country, except America, have some sort of national health insurance system? This book attempts to answer that question.

In the early 20th century, around 1915, the Woodrow Wilson Administration attempted to bring national health insurance to America (based on the German model under the Kaiser). It's failure can be blamed on Frederick Hoffmann of the Prudential Insurance Co, of America. He wrote all sorts of articles and pamphlets, emphasizing all the bad parts of the German system, and the British, which had started a few years previously. National health insurance would supposedly destroy the Daniel Boone spirit of individuality in America (sound familiar?). Today, the insurance industry has plenty of money to spend on Washington lobbyists to make sure that it stays that way.

Everyone has seen, or read, ads for Medicare Advantage health plans. The compete with, but have no connection to, traditional Medicare. Such plans get a lump-sum reimbursement each year from the government, so it is in their interest to make their patients look as sick as possible. Patients get a yearly visit from a nurse. A slight anomaly in a patient's heart rhythm, which doesn't affect the patient at all, is listed as Heart Attack (more money). An emotional problem that lasts more than 2 weeks becomes Major Depressive Episode (more money). This goes along with the usual denial of coverage the first time around. A number of sources report the government overpayments to these plans is in the billions of dollars each year. Also, switching from Medicare Advantage to traditional Medicare is impossible; you are locked in.

This is a short book, but it is a huge eye-opener. It is highly recommended for all Americans, and gets more than 5 stars. 

Blueprint of Core Calmfidence

 Blueprint of Core Calmfidence, Nell Puetter, Independently Published, 2021

This book asserts that it is very possible to access the powers and abilities of your subconscious mind. Maybe winning the Nobel Peace Prize is not an option, but it will certainly help you to live your best life.

There are other parts of your brain that also have to be in synch with each other. They are your Heart-Brain and your Gut-Brain (home of your "sixth sense" or your "gut instinct"). There is another part of each person that also needs to be pointed in the right direction.

Everyone has that negative voice inside them. Perhaps it is an Inner Critic that says "You'll never succeed." Maybe it is an Inner Procrastinator that says "Never do today what you can put off until tomorrow." Believe it or not, that voice is there to keep you "safe." If you suffered a trauma, or other bad experience, in the past, that voice is there to keep it from happening again. The author explores what to do to get that voice, and all other parts of you, in alignment and moving together.

It has been said that humans use only a small portion of their brain's capacity. Perhaps accessing our subconscious will considerably raise that number. This is a fascinating book that is very easy to understand. It is very much worth reading.

Thriving With Rheumatoid Arthritis

 Thriving With Rheumatoid Arthritis, Helen Ward Day, BellaLuna Productions LLC, 2021

You have just been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Now what do you do?

There will be days when you are full of energy. There will also be days when your body says "Nope. Not today." It is possible to do many of the things you used to do, just not at the same speed or intensity.

When cleaning your house, maybe you were able to declutter, rearrange and deep clean an entire room in a morning. Now, with RA, you might have to limit yourself to doing just your closet, or just a couple of drawers in your dresser, in an entire day. If you have a heavy upright vacuum cleaner, get a lighter, cordless model. No one will notice, or care, if you vacuum your carpet every month, instead of every week. When your body says "Rest," do it.

In the kitchen, move things around so that the things that are used more often are more accessible. Get an anti-fatigue mat if you plan on lots of standing. If you are renovating your kitchen, consider raising the height of the counter (if it helps).

When doing the laundry, consider a rolling laundry basket. Get a pair of tongs or grippers to get the clothes off the floor. Think about getting a low seat or step stool to prevent bending over to get clothes out of your front-loading dryer.

Travel is still very possible, with plenty of rest periods. Consider a three-legged cane that includes a small seat, for when no seating is available. Of course, carry all your medications with you on the plane. Make sure that your suitcase has wheels. It my be disconcerting to buy items intended to make things easier for the elderly, if you have not yet reached that age. If it makes RA easier for you to deal with, it's worth it.

This is an excellent one-stop resource for anyone with rheumatoid arthritis. It also includes many websites for the items mentioned in the book. It is possible to live a generally normal life with RA; this book will help a lot.

There's So Much I Need to Say to You

 There's So Much I Need to Say to You, Sutton Tell, Friesen Press, 2021

This novel is about Shay and Taryn, both members of the band Pause for Effect. They are also in a relationship with each other, which they have done a good job of hiding from the public (they are both women). After their latest successful tour, Parker, the lead singer, decides to go solo. Shay, a talented photographer, wants to spend several months traveling the world with her camera. Taryn, reluctantly, decides not to go with her. Is the band dead? Is Taryn's relationship with Shay also in the past tense?

While Shay is gallivanting around the world, Taryn meets Violette, a very sophisticated French woman, They sleep together. Taryn impulsively decides to follow Violette to Paris, to officially break up with her. After several months, Shay returns to New York City for an exhibition of her photos. Parker is also there, attempting to make amends for some of his past actions. Does the band get back together? Do Taryn and Shay get back together?

This is a really good story about relationship and the music business. It can be about any type of relationship in the public eye. It may be marketed as an LGBTQ novel, but the same-sex part is a minor part of the story. Yes, it is very much worth reading.  

Midnight Rider

 Midnight Rider, D.V. Wolfe, Lightning Strike Press, 2020

First of a series, this novel shows what can happen when a person really does make a deal with the devil.

A woman named Bane made such a deal, and everyone in her hometown is paying the price. The devil decides to give Bane a second chance. She has a time limit to kill a certain number of poltergeists, harvest gods and other such creatures that go bump in the night. If she is successful, everyone in her hometown, including Bane, will be released by the devil. She does not want to think of what will happen if she fails.

As if that wasn't enough, a tribe of cannibals is looking at her as lunch, and she acquires a teenage hitchhiker with strange abilities of his own. Does Bane rescue the people of her hometown? Does Bane stay out of Hell?

This is an excellent (bordering on amazing) start to a series. From the first few lines, the reader is right in the middle of the action. It's got plenty of weird stuff, lots of good writing and bits of humor included. I am very interested in reading the rest of the series.

Rogue Justice: The Making of the Security State

 Rogue Justice: The Making of the Security State, Karen J. Greenberg, Crown Publishing, 2016

After September 11, President George W. Bush turned to the Justice Department for its official OK for activities previously thought inconceivable. They included torture, indefinite detention and NSA spying on Americans. When President Obama took office, it was expected that these policies would be reduced, or eliminated. If anything, some of these policies were actually expanded.

The things and people from the early days of the "war on terror" are in this book, including FISA, the PATRIOT Act, John Walker Lindh (the American Taliban), military commissions and John Yoo. He is the Justice Department who went through mental gymnastics trying to give George W. Bush the legal justification to run the "war on terror" any way he wanted.

This is a first-rate piece of writing. For anyone who wants to know how America went from "land of the free" to torture, warrantless surveillance of Americans and waterboarding, start right here. It is very highly recommended.

Peace in the Abyss

 Peace in the Abyss, Tayo Emmanuel, Total Word Publishers, 2021

Set in present-day Lagos, Nigeria, this novel is about a woman named Preye Banigo. Raised by a single parent, Preye has built a successful PR agency. She is also part of a local running club. The only bad part is that she is approaching forty years old, and she is single. Her marriage prospects are rapidly shrinking.

Timi Coker is an only child from a rich family. He wants to marry Preye; what he doesn't want is an independent woman. After they are married, Preye is expected to give up the running club. On a romantic weekend, where she accepts his marriage proposal, Timi gets upset when Preye wants to keep her maiden/professional name, after marriage. He also gets upset when Preye takes out her laptop to do some work. After marriage, Timi also wants to move to a different part of Lagos, which, among things, will mean a longer daily commute for Preye. (The current population of Lagos is over 20 million.)

Do Preye's friends get her to see the truth, that Timi is a controlling narcissist? Does Preye go through with the wedding? Does this turn into a woman-in-peril story that should become a TV movie?

This is a very poignant and heartfelt story that could take place anywhere in the world. If it can get one woman to see the red flags that are all over "Mr. Right," it has done its job. This is very much recommended for all women, married or single. 

The Concrete Vineyard

 The Concrete Vineyard, Cam Lang, Tellwell Talent, 2020

Set in the small Canadian town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, this novel is about the murder of retired history professor Edward Mitchell. Investigating the murder is Homicide Chief Detective Bryan Dee. He enlists the help of his friend, Kris Gage. Things get really interesting when the last entry in Mitchell's diary is "time to take care of K. Gage."

Gage is an urban planner who understands real estate, bureaucracy and money. He discovers a group of corrupt developers who want to destroy the area's natural charm. Does it have anything to do with Mitchell's murder? Over 200 years after the War of 1812, does widespread corruption rear its ugly head?

This book works really well as a murder mystery. It also works as a book about sustainable communities. There is lots of good writing, with good characters. Here is an entertaining story that is very much worth reading.

Outbreak

 Outbreak, Christopher Cole, Kingston Publishing Co., 2020

First of a series, society as we know it is gone. Cities are in ruins, and the wilderness has taken over. Nothing is more important than survival. As if that wasn't enough, the undead walk the earth.

Sonny Daniels is an average kid, caught, with his parents, in the zombie outbreak in upstate New York. After the first year, the base is no longer safe. Sonny's parents send him, and two orphaned friends, Ashley and Carrie, on a military plane to Fort Denver, Colorado.

After that place becomes no longer safe, the three are on their own in a zombie-filled wasteland. They have to rely on each other, and the few other survivors they meet. Finding a new place to call home would be nice, but hard decisions may to be made in the meantime,

This is a really good novel. The whole zombie genre may be overdone, but the author does a fine job with the story and characters. This is an entertaining tale that will keep the reader interested.

The YouTuber

 The YouTuber: Learn How to Start a YouTube Channel, Sverre Steensen, Upstart Garage Media, 2021

This short book is about August and Michael, two average kids who want to start their own YouTube channel. Along the way, they answer many questions that every potential YouTuber needs to answer.

First, what will your channel be about? Find a subject that no one else is doing. Yet another teen gaming channel will face a lot of competition. Do you have a smartphone or video camera to do the filming? Look online for open source editing software, and get familiar with it.

Find ways to publicize your channel, online. Write to other YouTubers, and ask if you can appear on their show. How will people know you exist if you don't tell them? You can plan on getting negative feedback; take a deep breath, and don't get angry. Be Patient. If you are doing it the right way, the followers will come. Last, but not least, don't quit if you don't quickly reach thousands of followers. Treat this as a full-time job.

This is an excellent book for all soon-to-be influencers. It is intended for kids, and is very easy to read and understand. Adults who want to start their own YouTube channel will learn a lot. This is well worth reading.

The Waffle Maker

 The Waffle Maker, Sverre Steensen, Upstart Garage Media, 2021

Intended for children/teens, this is the story of June, a 13-year-old who wants to start her own waffle business. Her father is very supportive; eventually, her mother and brother get on board. Her uncle, who successfully started his own business, helps a lot. June learns, the hard way, about things like startup costs, operating costs, marketing and dealing with competition. There are many obstacles and false starts along the way, but June, and the reader, learns a lot about being an entrepreneur.

This is a first-rate piece of writing. It is presented as a story, not as a bunch of dry facts. Some may think that the text is too "young" for teens, or too "old" for a seven-year-old. If it just inspires a person to begin thinking about starting their own business, it will have succeeded. It is also recommended for parents.

Intermittent Fasting for Women Over 50

 Intermittent Fasting for Women Over 50, Lucy Blair, Independently Published, 2021

What is intermittent fasting? The short answer is that it is fasting for a specific period of time each day, or each week. A possibility is to eat between 12PM and 8PM each day, and fast for the rest of the day. Another possibility is to fast for two entire days each week. Don't make them consecutive; fasting for 48 hours can cause big health problems. Whatever time you choose, this will give your stomach a chance to empty, and your body a chance to burn some of that extra fat you're carrying.

This does not authorize filling up on junk food during your eating time. Eating healthy, or, at least, eating healthier, is part of the expectation. As with any health/diet plan, a visit to your local doctor, ahead of time, is a very good idea. There will be days when you fall "off the wagon," when you need to inhale a fast food meal. Don't worry about it; just be sure to get back "on the wagon."

The book also includes several recipes for smoothies, and looks at juice cleanses and water fasts. It may be intended for women over 50, but this book is recommended for people of any age. Instead of going on a new diet, with their rules and regulations, maybe all that is necessary is changing your eating habits a little bit.

The Determined Duchess

 The Determined Duchess, Antoinette George, Brangwyn Press, 2020

In part 2 of this series, set in 1790s England, Cat is being courted by an anonymous man in British high society. She agrees to marry him, to get her mind off Francis, the man she loved, and who walked away from her, after helping her and her family to escape Revolutionary France.

Here, in part 3, Cat learns that Francis is the man who has been courting her. Feeling abandoned, and then deceived, by him, to say that Cat sets a new record for being irate, is a huge understatement. When they return to his estate, there is lots of yelling. There is no chance of them sleeping in the same room, let alone in the same bed. Cat keeps a stiletto under her pillow, and is not afraid to use it, even on her husband. During the day, they communicate by notes passed back and forth by messengers. Cat wants a divorce; his answer is "Never." Francis tells her that, as a duchess, attendance at high society balls and parties is Expected. She agrees, wearing gowns that are more and more revealing. Francis gets just as upset at Cat as she is at him.

Francis gets word that his uncle has been taken prisoner, in France, by Bernheim and Dupont. They are two men for who torturing innocent people to death is another day at the office. He knows it's a trap, but he has no choice. Cat meets up with him in a small inn in France. She wants to help, she knows how to take care of herself, and she knows her way around a rapier, but Francis says No Way. Women are too delicate, they should make babies and take care of the house, this is "man's work." Another large argument ensues. Does Cat follow Francis, or does she stay at the inn, like a good wife "should?"

As with the other books in this series, this is an excellent piece of storytelling. It's got swashbuckling action and adventure, some really good writing, and a bit of rather extreme sex. This is very much worth reading.

The Dangerous Harlot

 The Dangerous Harlot, Antoinette George, Brangwyn Press, 2020

Set in 1790s England and France, part 3 of this series has Marie-Catherine  (nicknamed Cat) and Francis (a rich English duke) married. Their wedding night is a disaster, and things go downhill from there. Francis takes off to France, to look after his smuggling business, after Cat threatens to leave him. He is caught by Dupont, the sort of person who thinks nothing of torturing innocent people, to get them to give up their gold and jewels. Then he kills them.

Here, in part 4, Cat, and a few friends, put together a daring plan to rescue Francis, who is nearly tortured to death. They barely make it out of France. Back on his English estate, Francis spends several weeks in a coma. Cat is beside herself with worry. Francis wakes up, and eventually recovers. After sufficient time has passed, Cat wants to pick up where they left off, and consummate their marriage. During the day, Francis is totally proper and polite to her. When it comes to bedroom matters, he is totally uninterested. As a last resort, Cat gets help from a couple of women who are familiar with the world of sexual perversion. Cat gets Francis alone, and turns the "seduction dial" up as high as it will go. Does Francis get over whatever is bothering him? Does he turn back into the Ladies Man Cat knows and loves?

This whole series is surprisingly good. It's got action, adventure, fencing, good writing, and this novel has plenty of seduction. This volume, and the whole series, easily gets 5 stars.

The Elusive Smuggler

 The Elusive Smuggler, Antoinette George, Brangwyn Press, 2020

First of a series, this book is set in 1790 France. Marie-Catherine de Mornay, and Edouard, her brother, are desperately searching for a shadowy individual about which they have only heard rumors. Their parents have been thrown into prison; it has nothing to do with the approaching Revolution. If "The Shadow" can't get their parents out of prison, and all of them out of France, then no one can. As an extra complication, Edgar Bernheim, the regional Governor, wants The Shadow out of the way, permanently. His corrupt plans have been disrupted too often.

The two meet in a gypsy camp. Marie-Catherine challenges The Shadow (whose "day job" is as an English duke) to a duel with rapiers. The sexual tension between is immediate, and overflowing. Marie-Catherine is the winner. Can she convince The Shadow to help them? Can two strong-willed people give in to each other?

This is a really good story. It has action, romance and adventure. It also has a female protagonist who knows what she wants, and will do whatever it takes to get it. This will certainly keep the reader entertained. 

Bible Verses to Remember and Meditate on for Inner Peace, Strength and Growing in Faith, Love and Hope

 Bible Verses to Remember and Meditate on for Inner Peace, Strength and Growing in Faith, Love and Hope, Lawrence Keller, Independently Published, 2021

This short book (less than 50 pages) contains over 100 readings from the Bible, and is intended for reflection and meditation. The readings are clustered around subjects like the mercy, the love and the promises of God.

For anyone who wants a closer relationship with God, start here. For anyone who is experiencing an emotional hard time, or otherwise needs a "spiritual jumpstart," start here. It is very easy to read, and very much worth reading.

Haunted Past

 Haunted Past, Lisa Lahti, Independently Published, 2021

This novel is the fourth in the series of Jessie and Michael. More than a year after being told that Michael committed suicide, Jessie is on the porch of his family's farm. It is not a very friendly visit. Jessie finds herself having to deal with a web of secrets, and major decisions. She marries someone else, but her heart is not in it. Nor is her heart in his baby that she is carrying.

To paraphrase the famous saying: Reports of Michael's death are greatly exaggerated. After more than two years in hiding, Michael returns to reclaim his family. He has a hard time dealing with Jessie having moved on with her life. On top of trying to get her back, a visitor at the front door says that he is Michael's son. Can Jessie and Michael find happiness, and live "happily ever after?"

Their relationship has had more than its share of ups and downs. Romance fans will love this book. It has lots of good writing, and its retelling of Romeo and Juliet will keep the reader interested.

Stop Stopping Yourself

 Stop Stopping Yourself: How to Stop Procrastination, Get More Done and Achieve Goals That Could Change Your Life, Mario Benci, Independently Published, 2021

Are you constantly missing deadlines and failing to get things done? So did Steve Jobs and Nelson Mandela. This book explores how to stop procrastinating; everyone has been there at one time or another.

The author looks at the many causes of procrastination. Among them are: fear of failure, lack of focus, perfectionism, laziness, self-image and unclear goals. For instance, a vague goal like "I want to get healthy" will not do any good at all. How will you know if you have achieved it? Change it to something more specific, like "I want to lose at least 10 pounds before summer beach season." Procrastination is not biological or genetic; you were not "born that way." It's a mindset that can be changed, if you have the motivation to do it.

This short book is full of information. It is recommended for everyone; we all have experienced procrastination at some point in our lives. Here is a first-rate piece of writing.

The Last Turn

 The Last Turn, Elena Zhuravleva, Independently Published, 2021

This novel is about a young computer hacker. He has created an app that allows the authorities to track down criminals and terrorists while their crimes are still in the planning stages. A person would assume that the police and military would be very interested. Their response is "No thanks." However, other people are very interested. Crime is very profitable, so they start hunting him. A local newspaper reporter gets involved. She learns, to her dismay, that her own newspaper is involved in a secret online auction, sponsored by a terrorist group. The "grand prize" is exclusive media access to the next terrorist attack.

A couple of short stories are included in this book. In one, a giant blue jellyfish, that can turn into a human, is looking for love. In the other, man's destruction of the environment has gone too far. Therefore, the insects of this world stage a counter-attack.

These are some very interesting stories. The novel has a very intricate plot. It is only a matter of time until someone creates such an app. This will certainly keep the reader interested.

Old Soldiers Never Die

 Old Soldiers Never Die, Dargan Ware, Independently Published, 2021

Set in the first half of the 20th century, this novel is the story of Eamonn O'Connor.

Growing up in a tiny village in Ireland, he was among a group of Irish young men who joined the German army during World War I. Their desire was not to fight for Germany, but to fight against Britain (Irish nationalism was very strong at this time). After being shuttled all over Germany, they eventually found themselves as military police in occupied Lithuania. Eamonn is severely injured, losing part of his left foot, and is awarded the Iron Cross medal for bravery.

Between the wars, and after World War II, returns to home in Ireland, and the love of his life in Germany, brought mostly heartache. But, he was able to build quite a life for himself on two continents.

This is a totally engrossing story of life, love and the 20th century. It's got great characters, and lots of good writing. This is a gem of a story.

Guided Ignatian Contemplation

 Guided Ignatian Contemplation: Meditations on the Gospels to Come Closer to the Heart of Jesus, Lawrence Keller, Independently Published, 2021

This is a group of meditations based on events during the earthly ministry of Jesus.

Many of the major events while He was here are included in this book. Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist. Jesus heals a leper. He heals Bartimaeus, a blind man, on the road to Jericho. Jesus calms the storm, and multiplies the loaves and fishes. He is transfigured, and is anointed before His death. Included are readings from the Old and New Testament, to help the reader better contemplate each event.

Personally, the best part of this book is that each event becomes a short story, instead of just a Bible reading. This makes it much easier for the reader to understand. For anyone who wants a closer relationship with God, or just wants a better understanding of some important Bible events, here is the place to start. It is very much worth reading.

The Charisma Factor

 The Charisma Factor: Unlock the Secrets of Magnetic Charm and Personal Influence in Your Life, Leesa Rowland, Hatherleigh Press, 2021

Are some people born with charisma, and the rest of us are, permanently, out of luck? Is it necessary to be rich and famous before a person can be considered charismatic? According to this book, the answer to these questions is No.

What makes a person charismatic? What makes a person be one of those who lights up a room? Among the needed elements are: self-confidence, paying attention to what the other person is saying, being a good listener, communicating effectively, and looking the other person in the eye. But, don't stare at them, or you will look like a psychopath.

Is it possible to be charismatic at the office? Be able to troubleshoot all sorts of problems. Keep long-term goals in mind. Be confident enough to take risks when necessary. Work harmoniously with others. Be energetic; people will notice. Be able to think outside the box. Last, but not least, lead from the front.

Is physical attractiveness required to be charismatic? Consider Abraham Lincoln and Mahatma Gandhi; both men had plenty of charisma, but neither could be considered handsome. Charisma is a muscle. It will take time for changes to be seen; it becomes easier with practice. The book gives details about strengthening your charisma muscle; it starts with getting out of your comfort zone.

This is a gem of a book. Even if a person can't do all the tips in this book, getting closer to the state of Charisma is a very good thing. This is easy to read, and is very much worth reading.

The Ultimate Baby and Newborn Book for Dads

 The Ultimate Baby and Newborn Book for Dads, Bradford Alberts, Independently Published, 2020

Your partner has just presented you with a Positive pregnancy test. After the joy and hugs, the question quickly becomes "What do I do now?" This book attempts to answer that question.

The book explains what to expect during pregnancy. Her hormones will probably go haywire. This may manifest itself physically, or emotionally. Your job is to support her as much as possible, even with her strange food cravings in the middle of the night. The book also talks about what to expect during the first three months of your baby's life. Before the baby is born, baby-proof the house, as much as possible, and shop for baby clothes, along with things for the nursery.

Discuss, ahead of time, the role you will play in the delivery room. Bonding with your baby, the right way, is also very important. The author also talks about common illnesses, and what to do if it becomes more serious (be prepared for considerable spitting up).

This book belongs in the phone, or tablet, or somewhere easily accessible, of every new father and not-yet-father in America. The author does a first-rate job in making the childbirth process as easy for men as possible. This easily gets 5 stars.

The US Citizenship Test Study Guide

 The US Citizenship Test Study Guide, James Patino, Scientia Media Group, 2021

For someone not born in America, becoming an American citizen can be a very powerful thing. For instance, you will get priority in bringing your family to America. But, it is not easy. This book attempts to take the reader through the whole process. 

If you served in the military, you need to fill out a specific form (links are provided). If either of your parents were born in America, use a different form. The ten questions on the Citizenship exam are chosen randomly from a pool of 100 questions (all are in the book). They cover basic civics and US history; the book contains a basic, but very good, summary of US history. The English comprehension part of the test involves being given three sentences. The applicant will have to write one, and read another out loud. There is also a list of online resources to get additional information on becoming a US citizen.

This is an excellent book. It makes the whole citizenship process as painless as possible. For anyone who wants to become a US citizen, whether or not you are already living here, start with this book. It deserves more than 5 stars.

Be Something Wonderful

 Be Something Wonderful: When Suddenly You Want to Be More, Tom Kearin, Independently Published. 2017

This book talks about your "a-ha" moment, that jolt of energy that says that your dreams are about to become achievable. It also talks about quantum physics and its connection to the creative energy of the universe. The reader will learn about the Dare To Be It code, to help you be the best version of yourself. It includes suggestions like: Believe You Can Have It All; Dare to Face the Fear; Embrace the Everyday Magic of Life; Intuition is Your Superpower.

This is a very optimistic book. It also may be too mystical, and too "energy of the universe" for some people. It is still worth reading. A person never knows just where that life-changing spark of divine magic will come from. This book may be that spark.