Genesis to Revelation

 Genesis to Revelation: Abraham's Promise - Finding Christ and Seeing God, Michael McPadden, 2023

This book starts with a spiritual jolt. "Everything you and I were ever taught about the story of the creation of man and the universe from the Bible is wrong." The author asserts that the present-day church has become irrelevant because it does not understand its own teachings. The blame for such a situation goes to the early translators of the Bible, especially those who created the English King James Version, about 500 years ago.

If they encountered a section of Scripture that conflicted with the church's worldview at that time, instead of questioning that worldview, they just changed the meanings of the words to fit that preconceived worldview.

In the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis, the names "Adam" and "Eve" are never mentioned. The man was created from the dust of the ground, but the woman is a product of the man's physical body. Why? The woman is called a "helper" for the man, not "mate" or "companion." The book says that the woman was never given the breath of life, and is never referred to as a living soul. She is part biology and part programming code.

This is an eye-opening book. The author took the time to go back to the Hebrew and Greek versions of the Bible to see what the original authors really meant. It is very dense reading, but very worthwhile reading. 

The Unworthy

 The Unworthy, Michael Prelee, Edge Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing, 2023

Part three of a series, this science fiction story is about a man named Nathan. Along with his crew, he is an interstellar "repo man," repossessing spaceships whose owners have fallen behind on their payments.

As mankind spreads out in the galaxy, it runs into planets that are not suitable for humans. Instead of changing the planet to fit humans, why not change humans to fit the planet? Xandra, the richest woman in the solar system, wants Nathan and his crew to find a ship that has been missing for the past several years. They are not told that "experiments" with uninformed human subjects, have been happening on the ship (think "crimes against humanity"). 

The crew gets control of the ship, and make a "jump" in the direction of Earth, or so it thinks. The ship's navigation system has been sabotaged, so they, literally, don't know where they are in the galaxy. Does the ship, and its evidence, reach Earth? Does Xandra get what she deserves?

Here is an excellent novel. It has everything a reader could want, including good writing, deep space and monsters. This is a gem of a story.

How to Set Financial Goals

 How to Set Financial Goals, Aryan Chaudhary, 2021

What sort of financial goals do you have in mind? Is it a short-term goal, like saving enough money to purchase a new, big-screen TV? Do you want to start an emergency fund, in case of sudden bills, or some sort of investment account? Is it a long-term goal, like saving enough money to buy a house? This book can help.

What happens if you don't set any kind of financial goals? You may become stuck in life, and your dreams will remain unfulfilled. You will fall into the debt trap, and life will teach you some unpleasant lessons. The chances get better of you dying broke. You will be forced to spend more and more time at work, neglecting your family.

Financial planning, ahead of time, will help neutralize any short-term "wants" and help keep you focused on your overall goal.

Now, start getting specific about your overall goal. What do you need? When do you need it? How will you contribute to it? To give a simple example, you want to create an emergency fund of at least USD6000 in the next 12 months. You need to figure out a way to put aside USD500 per month, every month.

This is an interesting book. Most of it is a workbook, with plenty of space to write down your progress toward your ultimate goal. Yes, it is very much worth considering.

The Paradox of Debt

 The Paradox of Debt: A New Path to Prosperity Without Crisis, Richard Vague, 2023

These days, all the talk about debt usually means "government debt." This book provides evidence that debt is not always a bad thing.

Did you know that the levels of private debt, including mortgages, credit cards and student loans, is several times greater than government debt? Debt can be a good thing. A married couple getting a mortgage to buy their first home, or a businessman buying equipment for his company, are examples of "good" debt. "Bad" debt drives periodic financial crises and fast-rising levels of income inequality.

According to the author, debt needs to be carefully monitored in areas like housing, trade and student loans (the book explains). His creation of the mythical LoanLand, to help explain some of these topics in very basic terms, helps a lot.

This is an interesting book. For those who are into charts, there are many of them. Yes, this is worth reading for those who want to learn about the financial world.

The Undeniable Power of Movement

 The Undeniable Power of Movement, Nicole Mott, 2023

In this hyper-speed, 24/7 world, multi-tasking seems like a good idea. It is a very bad idea. You will simply do more than one thing at a time, and do them all badly. A much better idea is to focus on doing one thing at a time, and do it to the best of your ability. If necessary, write a daily to-do list. Another myth is that checking items off of a to-do list means that you are staying busy. How many of those items have to be done today, and how many can wait for another day? If you are dealing with too many requests for your time or expertise, learn how to say No.

When working toward a goal, whether it is personal or work-related, there will be distractions. The book shows ways to work through them. It also shows ways to keep up your self-discipline, even if there are no distractions.

 How is your mindset? Do you have a growth mindset, willing to adapt to changing conditions on the inside? Do you have a fixed mindset, unwilling, or unable, to emotionally change? Which one is more helpful?

All of this talk about changing your brain is a waste of time if your health is not good. The author advocates High Intensity Interval Training (look it up) and intermittent fasting. For instance, a person eats only during an eight-hour period, and fasts the rest of the day. This does not allow a person to fill up on junk food during their eating time; eating healthier food is still expected.

This is an excellent book that is very easy to understand. Even if a person can't get "all the way" in this book, getting just part of the way will be a big improvement. Very much worth the time.

I Spy Halloween Book for Kids

 I Spy Halloween Book for Kids, Little Artists Press, 2023, ISBN 9798861141109

This coloring book, intended for young children, presents pictures of five items, along with each letter of the alphabet. The next page has the right answer. Since this is a Halloween-themed book, it concentrates on things like bats, ghosts and mummies.

The pages are thicker than normal, and there is nothing written on the left-hand, back pages, so coloring bleed through is not a concern. This book is recommended for a child who just wants to color in their room, and also to keep the child entertained on those long holiday to visit the relatives. Get out your crayons, or colored pencils, and start coloring! 

Crossword Puzzles for Kids Ages 9-12

 Crossword Puzzles for Kids Ages 9-12, Maky Publishing, 2023, ISBN 9798395688866

Like the title says, this is a book of crossword puzzles for older children.

There are ten clues per puzzle (each puzzle is on a separate page). Each puzzle deals with a different subject, like countries, food, space, jobs, recycling and pirates.

This book will help improve a child's memory and critical reasoning skills. It will also help a child's vocabulary. Nearly anything that gets a child to use their brain is a good thing. This book may spark a life-long interest in crossword puzzles. It may also keep the child entertained on those long trips to Grandma's house. Yes, it is worth the money. 

Unemployable

 Unemployable, Alysia Silberg

This is one person’s journey from extreme poverty to Silicon Valley.

 The author grew up poor in late 20^th century South Africa. In the 1950’s, her father was a well-known makeup artist in Hollywood, on a first-name basis with many big stars. He returned home to become a chemist (pharmacist). Dad may have been an optimistic person, always willing to help a neighbor. He wasn’t much of a businessman, frequently refusing payment for prescriptions. Mom, a former dancer who was forced to retire because of injury, resented the constant lack of money. The relationship between them was difficult, at best.

The crime rate in South Africa was very high; car-jackings and robberies were an everyday occurrence. The chemist shop included a costume rental business; Dad used his makeup skills to make people look their best. After Dad died in an auto accident, Mom and the author applied for, and received, Permanent Resident status in Canada. Aside from the Canadian winter, the author thrived in Canada. After five years, Mom wanted to go back to South Africa.

By this time, the author had become a college professor. She met a man named Darren, and they started a successful real estate “flipping” business. That led to starting a digital marketing firm that was very successful. Many worldwide corporations that wanted to enter the South African market went through them. While creating an app that would make things easier for a company’s sales force, the author received a first-hand education in seeking investors and dealing with venture capitalists (VC’s). Now, the author is a VC, helping other new entrepreneurs. She lectures around the world, and is an unofficial UN ambassador.

This is an excellent book. It is very inspirational, and shows that, if you have that entrepreneurial drive inside you, even the most unpleasant upbringing is not an insurmountable obstacle. The book includes a reading list for anyone who needs further inspiration. It’s also very easy to read.

The Tea Lover's Bible

 The Tea Lover's Bible, Lydia Merrill, 2023

This is a very comprehensive look at the world of tea.

The book explores tea's history; it was first discovered several thousand years ago in China. There are many kinds of tea grown all over the world; the book considers all of them. It is much more than just the black or green tea found in your local supermarket. Tea leaves are better than tea bags. Tea has lots of health benefits. 

Several countries around the world, especially Japan and England, take tea, and its proper serving, very seriously. The book includes several food recipes that have crushed tea leaves as one of the ingredients. It's also possible to put crushed tea leaves in cocktails and other drinks. 

Have you ever considered growing your own tea plants, so you can have a personal supply of tea leaves? They require specific environmental conditions, and harvesting the leaves is pretty labor intensive, but why not try it?

For those who are passionate about tea, this book is a Must Read. For those who have not yet discovered the world of tea, this book is equally recommended.

Rising Stars of the Rising Economies

 Rising Stars of the Rising Economies, Ayman Kabli, 2023

This book presents short profiles of over 200 young people, from all over the rest of the world, who are following their entrepreneurial dreams.

In countries ranging from Croatia to Sri Lanka, these young people exhibit the tenacity and drive to succeed. Their businesses go from fashion design to biomedical engineering. They won't let a lack of educational opportunities, or lack of an entrepreneurial culture in their country, get in their way.

For any young person with a dream, or a business idea, who does not live in America, this book is highly recommended. It is very inspirational, and may just provide the spark to create the next Richard Branson.

Math Question Book for GMAT Winners

 Math Question Book for GMAT Winners, Jay John, ISBN 9798378455645

This book contains several hundred word problems covering all aspects of the math portion of the Graduate Management Admission Test (an important part of any MBA education).

The subjects explored include percent; time, speed and distance; interest and averages; geometry; algebra and probability. All problems are fully explained, along with alternate ways to solve them. The problems are based on those that have appeared in the GMAT in the past.

The best way to achieve mastery of GMAT math is to brush up on each topic, then practice, man, practice. As with the other books in this series, this book is recommended not just for people taking the GMAT. It is also recommended for high school and college students who are ready for an intellectual challenge. 

The Spectacular Life of Benito Martin del Canto

 The Spectacular Life of Benito Martin del Canto, David Towner, 2023

This young adult novel is really two stories in one.

Taryn Michaels is a young girl who is totally obsessed with Spanish culture. Returning from a business trip to Spain, Peter, her father, presents her with an old book he found in a used book store. It is a supernatural fantasy, with no indication of who wrote it. Taryn brings it to school, and it gets confiscated by Alice, her Spanish teacher. She checks out the book, and realizes that it may be an unpublished story by Miguel de Cervantes, written before his novel "Don Quixote." If confirmed, this would be a Huge Event, aside from the fact that the book is 400 years old.

The story, set in the 1500s, is about a boy named Benito. Raised by a herd of mountain goats, from an early age, he goes off to see the world. He does many different jobs on many different sailing ships. On one such ship, Benito is introduced to the world of slavery. He manages to free everyone on the ship. Later in life, he becomes friends with an English playwright named Shakespeare. Benito's life is filled with adventure, and narrow escapes from very unpleasant people.

Separately, these stories are excellent. Put them together, and this is an automatic Highly recommended. It's got history and adventure, and is really worth reading, for teens and adults. 

My Killer: A Supernatural Crime Thriller

 My Killer: A Supernatural Crime Thriller, Gary Sherbell, 2023

Joel is an Assistant District Attorney in present-day Manhattan. Karen is a co-worker, and his lover. Susan, Joel's wife, is similarly fooling around. The love left their marriage a long time ago.

Joel recently convicted a black man named Henry Nance for shooting a cop (even though the cop drew his weapon first). The Nance family is not going to let this go. A few days later, Karen and Joel save an elderly black woman from being mugged. She is a voodoo priestess, and tells Joel that if he dies in the next 14 days, his soul will enter the body of the person who is physically closest to him. The soul already inhabiting that body will disappear forever.

Two black hit men approach Karen and Joel, with murder on their minds. Karen survives, but Joel is killed. He now inhabits the body of a black man named Frank Davis. One can imagine the problems that this can cause. Can Joel/Frank convince anyone that he is not dead? Does he get arrested for Joel's murder, and thrown in prison? Can Joel discover who put out the hit on him?

This is a really good, and gritty, crime thriller novel, with a little bit of weird. It is very easy to read and understand, and will very much keep the reader's interest.

Tree of Redemption

 Tree of Redemption, Jim Davidson, 2022

Chris Harrison travels from suburban Virginia to Laredo, Texas, because Armando, his dear friend and father figure, has died. Armando's family is a very well-respected, and very old, family (maybe going back to the Mayan Indians).

While staying at the family estate, Chris is told that Armando was murdered. There is no chance of Chris going back to Virginia, and forgetting about it. His first stop is at the local police station; they are no help. He learns later that that was a very bad idea. The police are totally corrupt. If they weren't involved in Armando's murder, they probably know who did it and aren't interested in justice.

There are people in Laredo who don't like questions about Armando's murder, and it's only a matter of time before they fight back. Chris has a couple of people on his side, including his estranged father. These are people who know how to get things done. Does Chris find out the truth about Armando's murder? How far does the coverup go? Who is still alive at the end of the story?

This is a gem of a story. Mystery/suspense stories are not limited to New York City or Washington DC; they can happen anywhere. Here is a tale that will very much keep the reader's attention. 

Easy-Peasy Drawing Book

 Easy-Peasy Drawing Book, Amelia Benton, 2023, ISBN 9798850263393

This book shows an easy way for young girls to gain a love of drawing.

On the left-hand page, there are step-by-step picture instructions for drawing, for instance, a cute crab, a happy sun, delicious pizza, a cute clock or a carrot cake. On the facing, right-hand, page is space for the child to re-create the drawing on the left-hand page.

This is recommended for all young girls, especially if they have shown any interest in drawing. Who knows, you may just start a life-long interest in art, and create the next Rembrandt or Banksy. Yes, this is very much worth it.

Winners' Guide to Advanced GMAT Math

 Winners' Guide to Advanced Math, Jay John, 2023, ISBN 9798369907900

This is another in a series of books that will help students prepare for the Graduate Management Admissions Test, an important part of any graduate education. This book deals with advanced math topics. 

Among the topics that are covered are: least common multiple, quadratic equations, solving linear inequalities in one unknown, permutations and combinations, probability and statistics. Each concept is explained with example equations that are solved step-by-step. There are many problems, with explained answers, on which to teat your new knowledge. As with other books in this series, if a certain concept is not in the Test, it is not in this book.

This is very much recommended for any student taking the GMAT. It is equally recommended for any student, high school or college, who is ready for advanced math.

Left Astray

 Left Astray, Nathan Ewbank, 2023

Dahlia, the cat, leads a pampered life. Travelling around the Mediterranean on a sailboat with her owners, she eats fresh fish every day (no canned food for this feline). When they want to explore a port town, Dahlia rides in the bicycle basket, and gets to see all sorts of interesting things. There is plenty of snuggling and cuddling whenever Dahlia is interested. Life is good. That is, until the day that Dahlia is eating fresh fish at the dock, while her owners sail away on their sailboat. Dahlia has been abandoned.

The fact that Dahlia is pregnant, and will give birth in a few days, probably has something to do with it. She runs into other cats, including Calix and Nyke, who are part of feline society, watching out for each other, and getting whatever food they can get from the humans.

A very safe place has to be found for Dahlia to have her kittens. When it comes to animal smells, a cat giving birth is like a beacon to Ajax and Elemax. They are two big dogs who live nearby, and have no problem with killing any cat who is unlucky enough to be cornered by them. The fact that a big storm is coming is no help. 

Does Dahlia successfully have her kittens? Do the other cats find a way to distract the killer dogs, or otherwise point them in a different direction? Does Dahlia become an actual member of this feline society?

This is a really good teen/young adult story; I am not as sure if this will work for younger readers. The author does a first-rate job throughout. It's easy to read and understand, and is very much worth the time.

Winners' Guide to GMAT Grammar and Sentence Correction

 Winners' Guide to Grammar and Sentence Correction, Jay John, 2023, ISBN 9798361827954

This book explores the sentence correction section of the Graduate Management Admission Test, an important part of any graduate education. If a certain concept is not in the Test, it is not in this book.

The book starts with the basics of English, looking at nouns, verbs, adverbs, prepositions and interjections. It then explores the sort of errors commonly found in the Test, like subject-verb errors, misplaced modifier errors and errors in tense.

It then moves on to more specific sentence correction problems to avoid. They include that/which, these/those, can/could, was/were, loose participles, more/most, rise/raise, summon/summons and in/into. Of course, there are many example sentences to test what you have learned, along with answers and explanations.

This is a very concise and well done study guide. It is not just recommended for those taking the GMAT, but for all students in high school and college. For any student who needs extra help in grammar, or advanced students who want to skip ahead, start here. 

Ketogenic Diet on a Budget

 Ketogenic Diet on a Budget, Alina Palmer, 2022

 

These days, nearly everyone has heard of the Keto Diet. It is based on consuming lots of healthy fats (the human body needs a certain amount of fat every day) and very little carbohydrates. The idea is that the body will burn fat for energy, which is a good thing, after it runs out of carbs.

This book gives an introduction to the Keto Diet. It talks about the possible health benefits, it lists foods to eat (and avoid), and it talks about the "keto flu," possible side effects from your change in diet. There are ways to follow the diet without going broke, and the book lists kitchen gadgets that might be needed. Then there are the recipes.

There is one recipe per page, with a color picture of the dish. There are ingredients and instructions for each dish, along with nutrition information, and prep/cook time. The recipes include: Ham and Egg Pies, Coconut Granola, Salmon with Lemon Butter, Keto French Onion Soup, Cauliflower Fried Rice, Keto Beef Tacos and Keto Chocolate Cake.

This feels like a very complete book about the Keto Diet. Try cooking just one dish in this book. If you like it, then try another dish. Eating healthier, even just a little bit, is a very good thing. Before you know it, your eating habits have totally changed. This book is very much worth the time.

Guide to Traveling on a Budget

 Guide to Traveling On a Budget, Liz Fe Lifestyle, 2021

 

Is it possible to vacation in other countries without maxing out your credit cards or taking out a personal loan? According to this book, the answer is Yes.

 

Start saving money today. Cut that daily Starbucks coffee down to weekly. Do you really use all of those monthly subscriptions on your credit card bill? Are there ways to shrink your electric bill? If you have extra stuff around the house, sell it online or have a tag sale. Put all of that saved money into your Vacation Account.

 

Visit airline websites every day. They may have a special today that is gone tomorrow. Be Flexible. You may want a non-stop flight from America to Rome, for instance. You may also find that flying to Rome, via Amsterdam, is cheaper than flying non-stop.

 

Do lots of research on your destination country. Are there museums or cultural landmarks with free, or reduced-price, admission? What is available in hostels or inexpensive hotels? Is there a decent public transportation system? You really should try some street food, at least once. Be Flexible. Don't set your itinerary in stone, because it is going to change. Consider traveling in the spring or autumn, when fewer tourists will be there with you.

 

This book also includes a look at budget traveling in countries like Guatemala, Morocco and Fiji. It is an excellent introduction to the world of inexpensive vacations. Maybe it will inspire you to start planning that overseas vacation that has been in the back of your mind for years.

Un-Monkey Your Busy Mind: Reduce Stress and Anxiety

 Un-Monkey Your Busy Mind: Reduce Stress and Anxiety, P.R. Gallant

 

Occasional stress and anxiety is normal, and part of everyday life. Constant stress and anxiety is not normal, and can be a big problem. That's what this book is all about.

 

When you feel the anxiety level rising, stop and take a deep breath. Look at the source of the anxiety. Are you worried about something that may (or may not) happen? Is a friend not talking to you because you are suddenly convinced that they hate you? In the longer term, consider Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a licensed therapist. It might help you get to the root of your constant anxiety.

 

Next comes meditation. Find some quiet place to sit, or lay down, and concentrate on your breath (breathe in, breathe out). If you want, you can chant something like "Om." Can you spare just three minutes a day? It will take practice to reduce the "volume" on all that stress and anxiety in your head. If sitting, and doing nothing, is not working for you, consider easy exercises like yoga or tai chi.

 

This book is very easy to understand. If it can reduce the anxiety, and the constantly chattering monkeys, in your head by just a little bit, it will have done its job. It is well worth reading. 

The Half-Life: What Matters Most When You're Running Out of Time

 The Half-Life: What Matters Most When You're Running Out of Time, Ryan Lindner

 

Suffering two heart attacks in your 30's, despite being in excellent health, can really change a person's outlook on life. That's what happened to the author of this book.

 

For some people, life is all about getting honors and accolades, and being able to put letters after their name. Is that all there is? Is it more important than being a decent and considerate person? After you are dead, will people remember your awards, or will they remember what sort of person you were?

 

Are you waiting for the "perfect time" to start working on a personal goal? There is no "perfect time," there is only "now." As with any goal, make it specific, measurable and achievable. Put a time limit on it, and break it up into smaller pieces. Every day, resolve to do at least one goal-oriented thing. Start tomorrow.

 

This book covers a lot of areas. It may require more than one reading to "get" this book, but it is time very well spent. Perhaps this will help you to get out of your emotional "rut."

ChatGPT for Book Outlines

 ChatGPT for Book Outlines, Mark Silver

 

You are sitting at your laptop, ready to write a book. Should it be fiction or non-fiction? Murder mystery or self-help? What book subjects are always popular? Consider asking ChatGPT for help.

 

Here are some actual prompts that a would-be writer can send to ChatGPT (the book also includes its answers). Which topics are considered timeless and have a lasting appeal? What are some examples of helpful tips and strategies for a book on (topic)? Explain the steps involved in creating an engaging outline for a mystery novel. What is a unique and engaging angle for a book on personal finance aimed at young adults? What is the best way to structure chapters in a book on (topic)? Is there any redundant information in my outline that I should remove?

 

This book is my first exposure to ChatGPT's abilities, and I was shocked. It can do practically everything, short of actually writing the book (give it time, that will come, too). Some sort of AI regulation is needed; the sooner, the better. Until then, this book is recommended for all writers and would-be writers.

Home Is Within You

 Home is Within You: A Memoir of Recovery & Redemption, Nadia Davis, 2023

 

This is the story of one person's journey from addiction, discrimination and mental health struggles to healing and redemption.

 

A native of Southern California, the author was the youngest of seven children. All of her siblings looked European, while she looked Hispanic (Mom was German, while Dad was Hispanic and Native American). She received the "usual" anti-Hispanic discrimination while growing up. She also got it from other Hispanics, who felt that her last name, Davis, was not Hispanic enough.

 

On a whim, she applied to UCLA (instead of going to a less-expensive state school), and they said Yes. She got interested in Sociology and Criminal Justice, with an emphasis on helping others. Davis got involved in a lawsuit that forced the local school district to provide tests in Spanish, and not, automatically, put Hispanic students in the "slow" class.

 

As life went on, and after getting her law degree, the author battled addiction, a serious auto accident, public shaming and more than enough personal trauma for any one person. She also shows how she got through each of these "storms," and came out the other end recovered and healed.

 

This is a very inspirational book. No matter what personal trauma has been in your life, the author has probably been there. It is very much recommended for everyone.

Winners' Guide to Essential GMAT Math

 Winners' Guide to Essential GMAT Math, Jay John, ISBN 9798369872215

For anyone thinking of taking the Graduate Management Admission Test, or anyone else wanting to get the most out of college, understanding the basics of math is very important. This book is here to help.

Among the subjects this book covers are square roots, averages, profit and loss, interest, time and speed, geometry and Venn diagrams. For each concept, example problems are solved, step by step, and there are over 150 fully solved problems (answers are included). Everything is based on questions that have actually appeared in the GMAT. If it isn't in the Test, it's not in this book.

This book feels very comprehensive and easy to follow. It is very much recommended for anyone taking the GMAT. It is also recommended for any student who needs a little math help.

Ocellicon: Future Visions

 Ocellicon: Future Visions, A.G. Russo

 

In a near-future Earth, the military is now in control. This isn't any specific military, like America or China, but The Military, in general. They said "No" to politicians who were about to launch nuclear weapons. The military now spends lots of time rooting out "bad apples" in its ranks. The charges can range from anarchist terrorism (not everyone is happy with military rule) to pedophilia (lots of it). That's where Major Annalouise Farrell comes in.

 

Farrell had a very unpleasant childhood, but rose to become a military lawyer with a perfect record in the courtroom. After winning an "unwinnable" case, she and another lawyer are sent to a base in the Middle East to deal with a bunch of very minor cases. The judge that goes with them is Colonel McCrae. Sexual mores have changed by a lot, so he is able to find many women to satisfy his strong libido. He and Farrell simply do not get along. Soon after they arrive, an attack, directed at them, convinces them that something very unpleasant is going on. Can "it" be stopped in time? Who is still standing at the end?

 

This story is surprisingly good. The society-building feels very plausible, and it has lots of good characters and good writing. Will there be a Part 2?

Winners' Guide to GMAT Reading Comprehension

 Winners' Guide to GMAT Reading Comprehension, Jay John, ISBN 979-8-356-434136

 

This book is intended to help with understanding the reading portion of the Graduate Management Admission Test, an important part of any graduate business education.

 

This book shows many ways to improve your reading speed and comprehension in the exam. Such techniques are also valuable as you start your journey up the corporate ladder, and in your daily life. It also analyzes many different types of GMAT questions, so that you can practice your newly-found skills.

 

Many books offer ways to increase your reading speed. This book is different. It is very much recommended for those considering the GMAT exam. It is equally recommended for those in high school, to show just how important reading really is. Those who are simply passionate readers will also greatly benefit by this book.

In Search of Rohan Chang

 In Search of Rohan Chang, Lincoln Lee

 

Rohan Chang is your average Asian kid living in present-day New York City. He spends much of his time not knowing what to say to the lovely Amayah, a high school classmate, and being deathly afraid of saying the wrong thing.

 

Rohan starts hearing voices in his head; his first thought is that he's going nuts. He then starts to acquire superhero powers. He becomes very strong, and can run very fast. Also acquiring the ability to teleport himself anywhere, he accidentally teleports himself right next to a young woman who has just been murdered by the city's latest serial killer. Rohan also reduces the intensity of his ability to heal the sick after totally removing a young girl's case of terminal cancer.

 

Rohan now has two voices in his head, both of whom urge him to listen to them, and ignore the other. He manages to get noticed by the serial killer. Does Rohan stay safe and alive? Does Amayah get added to the list of victims? Does Rohan become an actual superhero?

 

Here is a first-rate piece of writing. It's an excellent teen coming-of-age story, with lots of action, and very good storytelling. For anyone who has wondered how a superhero learns to deal with their new abilities, this gives a very plausible answer. 

7 Step Emotional Guide to Rapidly Overcome Emotional Eating: The Way God Intended

 7 Step Spiritual Guide to Rapidly Overcome Emotional Eating: The Way God Intended, Bailey Palmer

 

Are you an emotional eater? Do you eat when you are not hungry? This book may be able to help.

 

The most important thing is to identify your trigger. Do you overeat because of home stress, or work stress (or something else)? Do you, for instance, eat just a couple of cookies, or, do you stop when the bag is empty? Have some alternative actions available, for when that moment comes. Meditate, or do some yoga. Go for a long walk, or consider some self-compassion.

 

Have you thought of asking the Lord for help? If you start a closer relationship with God, I’m sure that He will be happy to help you get over whatever the problem is.

 

This is a very interesting book. For those who have tried everything else, maybe this is the answer. It is really worth reading.

Against the Grain: A Coach's Wisdom on Character, Faith, Family and Love

 Against the Grain: A Coach's Wisdom on Character, Faith, Family and Love, Bill Courtney, 2012

This book is different than the, seemingly, million inspirational/self-help books that are available. It's a lot better, too. The author started, and runs, a successful lumber yard. He was also a volunteer football coach at a minority high school, both in Memphis, Tennessee.

 

The author looks at concepts of character, like service, leadership and commitment. He uses examples from his own life, and those of his players. These anecdotes show how to use these concepts in daily life. He doesn't forget about winning football games. Many of these young men may be lacking a mentor, or father figure, so he also attempts to prepare them for life after football. The author, and his team, are also subjects of an Oscar-winning documentary called "Undefeated."

 

This book is very easy to read, and understand. It doesn't quote academics around the world, or provide Rules to Follow. It is one person's look at success, teamwork and discipline. It is very much worth reading, for everyone.

Barefoot in the Forest of You

 Barefoot In the Forest of You, Nic Obi, 2022

 

When you were a child, life was all about fun and play (and exploring). Where did that joy go? What happened? Adulthood happened. Life happened. This book presents some ways to recapture that child's joy as an adult.

 

Imagine all negativity leaving your body, while you are sitting on the toilet. To combat procrastination, imagine that an invisible film crew is with you all the time, turning your life into a movie. Perhaps it is a romantic comedy, or an action film. The human body consists of trillions of micro-organisms; billions are born and die every day. Imagine that those "new" micro-organisms are smiley-face emojis, filled with joy at getting the chance to serve you. Maybe, one day, all that joy will pour out of you, like an aura, and you will spread it to others. You are looking at yourself in a mirror, and a 90-year-old you looks back at you. Future You regrets that they never did "it," whatever it is. Snapping back to the present, you suddenly have the chance to change the future, and remove that bit of regret from Future You.

 

This is a very eye-opening book. Some of the suggestions may seem a little weird, but give them a chance. They may be just what you need. More than one reading might be necessary to "get" this book, but it is time very well spent.

The Ultimate Worry-Free Pregnancy Guide for Dads

 The Ultimate Worry-Free Pregnancy Guide for Dads: 9 Simple Steps to Crack the Dad Code, Curtis Hoyles

Your wife, or partner, has just handed you a Father’s Day card (and it is not close to Father’s Day). You are about to become a father. What do you do now?

 

The best thing that you can do is to support her as much as you can. Take over some of the daily chores. Learn how to cook, and not grill outside. Get ready for her mood swings, and strange food cravings. Stay up, and watch TV, with her when she starts throwing up at 2AM. Go with her for her periodic check-ups. Attend childbirth classes with her. If fatherhood classes are available, go.

 

If she is a smoker, or likes wine with dinner, that needs to stop while she is pregnant. A good way to support her is to do it with her. Eating healthy, or healthier, is a very good idea for both of you. Exercise, or some sort of physical activity, is another very good idea for both of you. It can be as simple as an after-dinner walk around the block.

 

As her due date approaches, ask her who, and what, she wants in the delivery room. If the in-laws “expect” to be spectators when she gives birth, and she says No, you tell them No. After you are home from the hospital, you screen phone calls and visitors until she is ready.

 

This is an excellent book for fathers-to-be. It is very clear and easy to understand. For any guy who is panicking about becoming a father, take a couple of deep breaths, and read this book. It will help a lot.

 

Click and Grow Rich

 Click and Grow Rich: Escape the Rat Race, Work Online and Live Anywhere, Paul Browning, 2022

 

Several questions must be answered before joining the ranks of those who make huge amounts of money online.

 

Who is your target audience? Don't say "everybody." What is your category? For instance, "Beauty and Makeup" is much too broad. You need to find a niche, or a sub-niche, within "Beauty and Makeup." Many people go online to ask "How do I. . . ?" How are you going to answer that question? Will your answer be in the form of a tangible product, an email newsletter, a video training course? How will you make people aware of this information, through a website, a blog, YouTube videos?

 

If you are planning a website, hire a freelancer from Upwork or Fiverr (with graphic design experience) to create it for you. Do not let it look like it was thrown together in ten minutes. Make it as easy as possible for a customer to get from your main page to your purchase page. Make the purchasing process as easy as possible. When buying a website name, try for something easy to remember. Be sure that you understand the terms and conditions of your web hosting company.

 

If your blog says that you will post, for instance, every Monday and Thursday, make sure that you do it. Be consistent. The content has to be something that potential customers will want to read; it should have something to do with your category. Among other subjects, this book also explores customer service, taking payments and SEO.

 

This book is excellent and full of information; don't be put off by the length. Many books give an introduction to, or the basics of, internet marketing. Here is the book to read for anyone who is ready to dive into the details.

Money: 5 Things You Should Avoid

 Money: 5 Things You Should Avoid, Liz Fe Lifestyle, 2021

 

By itself, money is not the problem. It's just an inanimate piece of paper or hunk of metal. People's mindset toward money, giving it all sorts of power over their lives, is the problem. It has been going on throughout human history.

"He who has the gold makes the rules." "The love of money is the root of all evil." Does spending money, regardless of what you are buying, make you feel better? Are you a believer in "retail therapy?" How long does that shot of dopamine last? How do you feel later? How much money do you spend each week, at the casino, or on lottery scratch tickets? If you do come into a lot of money, will you spend it as fast as possible on shopping sprees, or will you, figuratively, stick it under your mattress? It can be very hard to change your mindset from anxiety and pessimism to hope and optimism.

Cutting your expenses does not mean living like a hermit. Do you really need all those subscriptions that show up on your credit card? Get in the habit of putting some money, even just a few dollars a week, into a savings account, and leaving it there. You never know when a sudden medical or car repair bill will drop on top of you. Start thinking about investing in the stock market.

This is an easy-to-read book about mindsets toward money. It is very much worth reading for everyone.

How I Naturally Increased My Testosterone With 7 Simple and Powerful Methods

 How I Naturally Increased My Testosterone With 7 Simple & Powerful Methods, Christopher Terzakos, 2023

 

The author is your average person over 60 years old, who is passionate about fitness. He is in the gym nearly every day. Over the past few years, he noticed that was getting more moody and irritable, and had trouble sleeping. The amount of weight he had been able to bench press was dropping. A blood test said that he had low testosterone. The number was not a  little low, but very low.

 

Some of the effects of low testosterone include heart disease, reduction in bone strength, anxiety, memory loss and lack of self-confidence. There is a treatment available, called Testosterone Replacement Therapy. It is for the rest of your life, and has some side effects of its own. Included are an increased likelihood of a fatal heart attack, bone fractures (from osteoporosis), and enlarged prostate and a required blood transfusion every 3 months because your blood is thickening. The author looked for a natural way to fix his problem.

 

Among his discoveries were to get a good night's sleep, get 15-20 minutes of sunlight daily, eat healthy (or, at least, eat healthier), reduce or eliminate your consumption of alcohol and exercise. The author also started taking daily supplements. A trip to your doctor is a good idea before taking any supplements. The other discoveries are things that everyone should be doing, regardless of their health level.

 

It is possible to reverse medical conditions without resorting to drugs. This book is short, full of information and recommended for any male sufferer of Low-T.

The Youth Climate Change Movement

 The Youth Climate Change Movement, Liz Fe Lifestyle, 2021

 

Greta Thunberg is the most well-known climate change activist, but she is hardly the only one. This book introduces the reader to several other activists working to improve conditions in their communities.

Write to your elected representatives, in your state capital or in Washington, demanding that they act on climate change. Climate change education needs to start - today. It should not be taught just in college, or just in high school, but an age-appropriate climate change curriculum should also be taught in elementary school. More young people will get involved in battling climate change if they learn about it in school.

Recycling and using public transportation are not nothing, but much more effort needs to be aimed at the corporations that do most of the polluting. For instance, if an oil company touts their environmental record, write to them, on paper, and demand specifics. Paper is much harder to "lose" than an e-mail. Don't be afraid to write to them several times, becoming a pain in the rear end.

For any young person who needs inspiration to get involved in climate activism, reading this book is a very good idea. It is short, and very easy to understand.

YouTube Sponsors: How they Work and What to Expect

 YouTube Sponsors: How They Work and What to Expect, Liz Fe Lifestyle, 2021

 

Everyone wants to be an online influencer, but what are the actual steps involved?

 

First of all, you need to already have some videos online, and some followers. The minimum number of followers needed is 1000. There are ways to analyze who watches your videos. Do they watch the entire video? Which video has the most views? Do your videos get lots of comments?

 

There are sites where brands and influencers can get together, and maybe strike a deal. You can also write to your favorite brand, and ask. The worst they will say is "No," or "Try again when you reach X thousand followers." If you do strike a deal with a brand, be absolutely certain that you understand what they want. Will you be talking about their product for 3 minutes, in the middle of your video, or is "This video is sponsored by . . ." good enough? Try to find a brand whose products are close to the subject of your videos. Interrupting a beauty and makeup video to talk about a financial services firm is not good. At minimum, you need to say "This video is sponsored by . . ." in your video (don't just put it in the description). The viewer needs to know if you are praising a product because you legitimately like it, or simply because you are getting paid for it.

 

This is when you start getting checks from YouTube with lots of zeros in them, right? Wrong. Getting such checks is certainly possible, but it is much more likely to make hundreds, not thousands, of dollars per month.

 

Here is an excellent introduction to the world of being an online influencer. It is very much worth reading for everyone.

Fierce Family

 Fierce Family, Bart R. Leib (ed.), Crossed Genres Publications, 2014

Families can come in many different shapes and sizes, and levels of dysfunction. That's what these speculative fiction stories are all about.

A same-sex couple learns that an interdimensional adoption, of a newborn baby with horns, involves more than just filling out some forms and hosting a home visit from a social worker. A struggling single mother takes her young daughter to a local carnival. There she finds a vendor whose ice cream has a very unique side effect. 

A family-run interstellar freighter/salvage ship is attacked by space pirates. There is a story or two set on worlds with human colonies. A young man in the hospital after a major auto accident is visited by the spirit of a dead uncle.

Individually, these stories are really good. They do a very good job at showing the many definitions of the word "family." Put together, this collection is very much recommended.

Notary Journal for Women

 Notary Journal for Women, Maky Publishing, 2023

For any woman who is a Notary Public, it is a very good idea to keep a permanent and official record of all the documents, and people, with which you have been involved. That's what this book is for.

For each separate document (there are 400 such spaces in this book), there is space for the mane and address of the signer and witness (along with their signatures). There is space for the service provided, the official ID that was used, the document type and date, who issued the document and its ID number. There is also a space for a thumbprint. 

This book is very much recommended for anyone who is a notary public (male or female). It keeps all the required information in one place.

The 2 Keys to Permanent Weight Loss

 The 2 Keys to Permanent Weight Loss, Ken Flett, 2021

This book presents 2 things that will greatly increase your chances of permanent weight loss.

The first thing that needs to change is your mind (read the book to learn the other one). For instance, if you are in the habit of gorging on junk food while watching TV, dieting will not help. Your first step is to change that mindset of TV = Junk Food to TV = Nuts (or fresh fruit). Your second step is to greatly reduce, or eliminate, your TV time and start exercising (even if you only go for an after-dinner walk around the block). Be aware, that junk-food-loving part of your brain will not give up easily. 

If there is such a thing as The Cause of Obesity, it is probably the large amounts of sugar consumed on a daily basis. Sugar in desserts, like soda and cookies, is normal. What is not normal is the perception of added sugar in nearly everything else in the supermarket. If the label on an item says "Low Sugar" or "No Added Sugar," it probably has extra chemicals to make up for that lack of sugar. 

Have you heard of intermittent fasting? The easiest way to do it is to eat only during an 8-hour period each day (you get to pick the period). You don't eat anything, and drink only water or tea or black coffee (or something else with zero calories) the rest of the day. This does not give you permission to overdo the junk food during your eating period. You are still expected to eat healthy, maybe by following one of the popular diets. If you are elderly or pregnant, do not try intermittent fasting (your unborn baby will not appreciate any reduction in nutrition).

Perhaps you can be one of the few people in the world who lose weight, and actually keep it off. This book is very much worth reading, and worth trying (after a trip to your doctor to make sure it is a good idea for you).

The Little Artist

 The Little Artist, Maky Publishing, 2022, ISBN 979-8-37633-6762

This book is intended to introduce young children, starting at 3 years old, to the joy of drawing.

There are many creative prompts in this book. With step-by-step instructions, the child starts with drawing simple shapes. They will learn how to use pencils and colored pencils to create their own works of art.

This is an excellent book to encourage your child's confidence in their artistic abilities and their artistic development. Who knows, you may inspire the next Rembrandt or Andy Warhol.

The Only Garden Planner You Need

 The Only Garden Planner You Need, Maky Publishing, 2022

Are you a passionate gardener who already has every square inch of your garden planned for 2023? Are you just waiting for the weather to get warm enough to start planting? Do you need a single place to keep all the information about this year's garden? This book may be able to help.

It contains pages for tracking of purchases, a shopping list, monthly planners and grids for seed layouts. There are many pages for plant profiles. They include places for plant names, the date and place of purchase, the date it was planted and its classification (shrub, herb, fruit, etc.). There are also places to keep track of how often a plant is watered, and a harvest tracker.

If there is such a thing as "one-stop shopping" in garden planner books, this is it. It has plenty of space for anything that a gardener wants to record. This book is highly recommended for all gardeners.

Watch Out, It's Nolan

 Watch Out, It's Nolan, Dark Joseph Ravine, 2022

Nolan is your average young boy who really does not want to go to school. His parents think that he is lazy; the school principal thinks that he is simply being disruptive. The real reason is that Nolan is being bullied at school.

His parents tell Nolan to simply ignore the bullies. The school administration is equally not helpful. On this day, Nolan acquires an invisible green leprechaun helper named Bolton. His mission is to get people to believe Nolan. The kitchen clock suddenly falls off the wall, and smashes into many pieces. At school, while Nolan is being lectured to by the Vice Principal, pieces of ceiling plaster hit him (the Vice Principal) in the head. 

Other such things happen, and the adults begin to believe that Nolan is some sort of powerful wizard; staying on his good side is a good idea. Nolan tells them, again, about the bullying. Many elementary schools say that they have an anti-bullying policy. Does Nolan's school just say it, or do they actually do something about it?

Very few bullied children get a helper like Bolton. Maybe adults should believe children a little more when they say they are being bullied. This story is highly recommended for all children, whether or not they have experienced bullying.

Are You a 360 Alpha?

 Are You a 360 Alpha?, Kabir Wats, 2022

 

Everyone has heard of the term "alpha male." How does one get there? Is there any hope for those of us who are not young, rich or handsome? This book is here to help.

 

More than half of this book talks about relations with women. No, this is not "How To Get a Woman Into Your Bed in 10 Easy Lessons." It's all about building a decent and mutual relationship with her. There are many things that a man can do that will help, but here are some things to not do. Do not tell her that she is the most important thing in your life. Do not buy her a gift to "fix" some stupid thing that you said or did. Do not buy her a gift, expecting something, like sex, in return. Those actions do not sound like a strong, confident alpha male, ready to take on the world, single-handedly.

 

The book also explores finances and health. Living at home, with your parents, because you can't afford to get your own place, does not scream "alpha male." Having a treatable physical condition, like obesity, because you are too lazy to do anything about it, does not scream "alpha male."

 

Here is a very interesting and eye-opening book. It is very easy to read and understand. Maybe there is hope for those of us who think that becoming an alpha male is just impossible. This is very much worth reading.

Storytelling with Charts

 Storytelling with Charts: A Tutorial to Quickly Master the Art and Science of Telling Engaging Stories with Charts, Sam Schreim, 2023

 

In any business, putting together a slide presentation can be very nerve-wracking. It's easy to do it wrong. This book presents ways to keep your audience from yawning or reaching for their cellphones.

 

It starts with KISS (Keep it simple, stupid). Use only one chart, or one concept, per slide. Next, stay consistent throughout your presentation. Use the same font type, or font size (as much as possible). Use the same numerical scale on your charts. If one chart has a number xxx.x, use it on all other charts.

 

If possible, use numbers in your charts that can be verified, and not guesses or projections. In these days of big data, there is no lack of data available. The hard part is to find the "right" data. That starts with knowing the right questions to ask.

 

Sometimes, like in the legal field, words will be more important than numbers. Use bullet points - keep it simple. Ensure that the person in the back of the room can read, and understand, your slide.

 

Here is a very specialized, and very good, book. Anyone who creates business presentations, on slides or PowerPoint, will greatly benefit by reading this book.

Nine Planets

 Nine Planets, Greg Byrne, Dragonwell Publishing, 2014

Peter Blackwell wakes up from a coma into a very strange Earth. A pair of opposing groups have been fighting a secret war for the past seventeen centuries.

 

The Cabal has been fighting against The Brotherhood, and The Cabal (the bad guys) is winning. They have placed a curse of depression over the whole world. Suicide is common; there are public agencies that will help a person do it. Their opponent is The Brotherhood. They are nearly wiped out by The Cabal; their one weapon is Father Nick's Day. On the same day, everyone in the world receives a package; it is something that they really need. The deliveries are accomplished through time dilation. The idea behind Father Nick's Day is to convince people that suicide is not the answer, that someone really cares about them.

 

Peter has no memory of his previous life, but he does remember eight random images. There is a ninth image locked in his brain. Both sides want that image very much; it will end the war, one way or the other. He has only a few days to stop worldwide suicide.

 

This story is better than excellent. The characters, the action and, especially, the society-building, are all very well done. Philip K. Dick fans will love this book. It is very much worth reading.

Turn Your Fandom Into Cash

 Turn Your Fandom Into Cash: A Geeky Guide to Turn Your Passion Into a Business (or at least a Side Hustle), Carol Pinchefsky, Career Press, 2022

 

You are a total geek. You have seen all the Marvel movies (several times each). You world revolves around cosplay at conventions. Is it possible to make money from geekdom?

 

First of all, make some mockups of your proposed protect, and pass it around to friends and fellow geeks. Is there a market for it? Intellectual Property (IP) is very important. If you are selling Avengers t-shirts, Marvel will get very upset with you (legally). You need to learn how to market yourself, and your business, whether online or in-person. How will you get funding to start your business? Options include Kickstarter, Patreon or your parents.

 

The best place to market your product is at conventions. How much will you have to spend (transportation, food, lodging)? You need to at least break even at a con, or just don't go back next year.

 

There is a lot involved with making money from geekdom. This book does a very good job at exploring all of them. It is very much recommended, not just for geeks, but for everyone looking for a way to make some money.

The Skylight Fallout: Book Two of the Skylight Series

 The Skylight Fallout: Book Two of the Skylight Series, J Wint, Independently Published 2022

Second in a series, a young man learns that his fatal condition (characterized by glowing eyes) is not exactly fatal. He finds himself in the middle of a centuries-long war between two secret societies, the Lucem and the Atrum (the bad guys).

 

These days, Jet is very busy. He is trying to understand his place in the Lucem. He is sworn to protect Kamber, his ward, as she starts her first semester at Skylight University. The Atrum think nothing of murder to gain an advantage, so Jet must also keep an eye on Cutter, his old friend.

 

The Century Eclipse is coming, and the Lucem get word that their enemy is planning something really awful. Things get real when Jet confronts his old classmates, some of whom have gone over to the other side. It all revolves around someone called the Skylight Fallout. Is it Jet? Is it one of the Atrum? Who is still alive at the end?

 

The author has done an excellent job with this sequel, especially with the action and the society-building. It will certainly keep the reader interested.

(I received a free copy of this novel and am voluntarily leaving this review)

Yearnings: Rendezvous: Stories for the Young of Heart

 Yearnings: Rendezvous: Stories For the Young of Heart, Randy Lee White, 2016

 

This book of short stories is all about a boy's growing up. The same couple of characters are in all of these stories.

 

A game of chess is compared to a game of Cowboys and Indians. An apple stealing expedition is stopped by a unique guard animal. One of the boys gets too close to an ape at the zoo. There are re-tellings of "The Tortoise and The Hare" and "The Three Little Pigs" (the wolf has just gotten out of prison, and is looking for revenge).

 

The author deals with more serious subjects, including suicide, domestic violence and some cliff diving that ends very badly.

 

Each story is only a couple of pages long, and each is very well done. This is an entertaining read for everyone, especially for those who want to reminisce about their time growing up.

The Art of Building Great Products

 The Art of Building Great Products, Mayank Mittal, 2022

This book is all about the world of product management, whether the product is virtual or tangible (can be held in your hand).

 

The product manager does not have to be an expert in each part of the process, like coding and marketing, but he or she must be familiar with them. If your product is being sold to the public, analyze your website traffic. Are people clicking on your site, then quickly leaving? Are people looking around your site, but not buying?

 

If you want to add features to an already existing product, talk to your present customers. Do it in person, and not just through online surveys. Are they interested in the new features? Instead of trying to add many new features all at once, add just a couple of new features. Make the new product as bug-free as possible. If your present customers like the new features, then add a few more.

 

If you are a start-up and this is a new product, know your market. Who is your target audience? Who are your competitors? How big is the overall market? At all times, frequently test and evaluate your product. Fix any problems (or start over) sooner, rather than later. Does "a great idea" actually turn into "a great product?"

 

Product management, on any scale, can seem big and confusing. This book does a very good job of reducing the confusion. It is very much worth reading.

Chronicles of Anne

 Chronicles of Anne, Naif Makmi and Adel Saud, 2022

Set in 1600's Scandinavia, Mikael is a young man who walks through a hole in the forest and meets a young woman named Alice. He is instantly smitten. The problem is that Mikael is a pure human, and Alice is a ghost (but with a human body). They live in different dimensions because both groups have reasons to hate and fear the other. Simply being in the other dimension leads to jail and a probable death sentence. They run away together, and have a child. It is intentionally taken from them, by a friend, as Alice and Mikael meet their violent end.

 

Fast forward a dozen years. Anne has spent her life in an orphanage with no idea who her parents are. She goes to school, but it's not much of a school. She really wants to attend the sorcery school across the street. Anne gets her chance, acquires her own magic wand, and starts to learn about potions. She also has strange dreams and visions, and is harassed by unknown people. She has been Noticed by certain people who think that she is the fulfillment of a prophecy. The offspring of Alice and Mikael is destined to become a great witch who will lead her people to peace and prosperity. Does Anne fulfill her prophecy? Does she have a choice?

 

This is a strong and well-done story. It has enough sorcery and violence for anyone. This book almost, but not quite, reaches the level of being an excellent story; it gets 4.5 stars.