OWNING YOUR DESTINY
FULL BOOK TITLE: Owning Your Destiny: A Woman’s Guide to Harnessing the Power Within
AUTHOR NAME: Duncan McLauren
PUBLISHER NAME: Duncan McLauren
Duncan McLauren's book, Owning Your Destiny, is immensely inspirational.
What particularly stood out for me, was the book's well-structured format, which breaks down the author's action plan into easily digestible chapters. This organization allows readers to focus on one aspect at a time.
McLauren provides readers with a treasure trove of practical and actionable advice—walking mantras, rhythmic breathing, and creative visualizations are among the techniques presented. I found the section on creating a vision board to be exceptionally valuable, offering a tangible tool for setting and visualizing personal goals. By incorporating a variety of exercises and thought-provoking journaling prompts, McLauren equips readers with practical steps to ignite their path towards self-improvement.
Moreover, I value McLauren's continual stress on the significance of gratitude throughout her book. This recurring concept serves as a potent reminder of the pivotal role positivity plays in our everyday existence. The central theme of her book, the idea that transformation relies on reshaping our thought patterns and assuming control of our happiness, is truly compelling. While it may seem obvious to some, it's a concept that eludes many.
Throughout the book, she candidly shares her personal journey, including the difficulties of divorce, and adeptly demonstrates how to skillfully navigate life's unforeseen challenges. McLauren conveys her ideas with an unmistakable passion, making her genuine love for assisting people abundantly clear. Reading her book feels akin to engaging in a heartfelt conversation with a friend who authentically cares about my well-being.
I would wholeheartedly endorse this book to those who've experienced divorce, individuals curious about the transformative power of positive thinking, and anyone seeking to unlock their full potential and lead a content, self-affirming life.
Owning Your Destiny is an invaluable resource for those on a quest for positive change and personal fulfillment.
Author Bio:
Duncan McLauren is a Texas native. For five years of her life, she traveled abroad to such destinations as the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, and Portugal, before working with the government and CST, the largest insurer of art, jewelry, and antiquities in the world, as a contracted retrieval agent. She eventually settled in New Orleans, unlocking her own destiny that she now shares with others. When McLauren is not writing, she spends her time hosting in-person workshops and creating personalized anchor images, focus items, and vision boards for clients.
CHRISTIANITY 2.0
FULL BOOK TITLE: Christianity 2.0: How Amazing New Advancements in the Religious Realm Can Ignite a Religious Revival
AUTHOR NAME: John Dorsey
PUBLISHER NAME: John Dorsey
Christianity 2.0: How Amazing New Advances in the Religious Realm Can Ignite a Religious Revival by John Dorsey is a daring and ambitious exploration of faith in the contemporary world. This manuscript blends elements of memoir and self-help to create a unique reading experience. From the outset, readers are invited to embark on a journey that challenges established religious norms and encourages them to venture into uncharted territories of spirituality.
At the core of Dorsey's work lies the intriguing concept of the "map of consciousness." This innovative tool promises to measure the energy fields of everything from individuals to ideas, casting a revealing light on the positive and negative forces that shape our existence. Dorsey's exploration of this concept is nothing short of enlightening, offering readers a chance to understand the universe's intricate web in a tangible way.
Christianity 2.0 confronts a wide range of difficult questions that many shy away from. He delves into topics like the potential effects of psychedelic substances on expanding consciousness, moral dilemmas surrounding issues such as abortion, the nature of heaven, the existence of guardian angels, and the scourge of depression. Drawing from the "map of consciousness," he provides readers with insightful calibrations that shed light on these complex issues.
Readers should be made aware of Dorsey's unapologetic style. He writes with an omniscient prose that leaves no room for ambiguity. His convictions are strong, and he doesn't hesitate to impart his interpretations with unwavering confidence. While some readers may find his approach preachy, others will appreciate the clarity and conviction with which he delivers his message.
John Dorsey imparts a most valuable lesson later in the text: finding a profound connection with the divine often requires delving deep within oneself. Many individuals struggle with spirituality because they haven't explored their inner selves. Dorsey emphasizes humility, vulnerability, and introspection as essential for encountering something greater. To connect with God, one must allow themselves to go “low.” In these moments of humility, the divine can be discovered, leading to a deeper understanding of spirituality.
Whether you're a fervent believer seeking fresh perspectives or a skeptic eager to explore new horizons, Christianity 2.0 promises an illuminating experience that challenges the boundaries of spirituality.
STARZEL
FULL BOOK TITLE: Starzel
AUTHOR NAME: Mark Bertrand
PUBLISHER NAME: Mark Bertrand
Mark Bertrand's Starzel is a mesmerizing journey into a speculative world that challenges the boundaries of human existence. Set against the backdrop of gas planet cities and a web of enigmatic secret societies, this book offers a unique blend of alternative history, political intrigue, and post-apocalyptic survival.
In a distant future, protagonist, EulƏr, exists as a marvel of genetic engineering, a species thriving on a colonized alternative planet. They've enjoyed a long era of peace and prosperity, but a lurking threat now endangers their existence. The once-harmless virus has mutated into an insidious menace, prompting an urgent quest for salvation.
It falls upon EulƏr to embark on an extraordinary mission. Armed with the power to teleport across space and time, he journeys back to Earth, the ancestral home of humanity, in search of a piece of ancient code—a relic from the bygone days of the virus's creation. This fragment may hold the key to his species' survival.
However, Earth, centuries hence, is a realm of profound transformation. Wars, ideologies, and the relentless passage of time have reshaped the planet beyond recognition. The very air is charged with the echoes of bygone conflicts and lost ideals. Here, EulƏr must navigate a world where opinions have become a perilous currency, and even the most innocuous ideas can birth discord and danger.
Bertrand's storytelling is nothing short of masterful, as he weaves together a tapestry of themes ranging from political manipulation to feminism and the impact of mass media. The narrative immerses the reader in a world where every decision carries profound consequences, not just for one man but for the entire universe.
What sets Starzel apart from its peers in the Speculative Fiction space is its ability to provoke deep reflection on themes like extremism, materialism, and the essence of human life. The story explores the intricacies of choice and the power it holds to shape destinies, all while maintaining a sense of suspense and uncertainty that keeps readers eagerly turning pages.
Mark Bertrand's literary prowess in Starzel is a testament to his talent for crafting speculative fiction that delves into the human psyche and our capacity for both greatness and darkness. This book stands as an invitation to contemplate the future, to question the world around us, and to recognize the impact of our choices on the grand stage of existence.
For fans of dystopian literature and space opera with a philosophical edge, Starzel is a must-read. It leaves a lasting impression, challenging readers to ponder the complexities of the human experience long after the final page is turned.
Author Bio:
Mark Bertrand is an acclaimed author known for his compelling works of science fiction and metaphysical exploration, including “The Dot,” “Starzel,” “Love Reincarnate,” and “A Conscious Thing.”
With a background in aerospace, neuroscience, and mathematics, Mark brings a unique blend of scientific knowledge and philosophical insight to his writing. His experience and understanding of Buddhist principles and Zen teachings infuse his storytelling with a thought-provoking and introspective quality.
As a seasoned traveler and seeker of knowledge, Mark draws inspiration from diverse cultures and experiences, enriching his narratives with a global perspective. When he’s not crafting captivating stories, Mark can be found enjoying the serene landscapes of southern Spain, reflecting on life’s mysteries.
With his unconventional thinking and ability to challenge conventional norms, Mark’s writing captivates readers, offering a fresh and immersive reading experience. He maintains open lines of communication with his readers and critics, fostering a strong
commitment to his craft and staying at the forefront of his field.
Engage in his literary journey by visiting his website or social media platforms and discover a world of boundless imagination and philosophical exploration in Mark Bertrand’s evocative works.
You can visit Mark online at his website, www.markbertrand.com, and on Twitter @markbertrand.
KARMA AND KISMET
FULL BOOK TITLE: Karma and Kismet
AUTHOR NAME: Michael Shandler
PUBLISHER NAME: Koehler Books
This book is the deeply introspective and authentic memoir of one Louie Schitz, now Michael Shandler.
He was born in Cape Town, South Africa in 1946. His formative years were marked by a challenging childhood, characterized by his father's erratic temperament. As a student, he struggled academically when he transitioned to the South African College School (SACS), where strict discipline and caning were commonplace.
Sports became Shandler's refuge, providing solace and achievement amid academic challenges. However, he couldn't escape the specter of a school failure that prompted his parents to send him to a distant boarding school in Oudtshoorn, South Africa at the age of 13. There, he encountered antisemitic bullying.
In 1967, a pivotal moment occurred when Shandler volunteered in Israel after the Six-Day War. His six months on a kibbutz exposed him to a communal way of life that would significantly and permanently influence his mindset going forward.
From there, his travels led to Vancouver, Canada, where he immersed himself in the counterculture and the burgeoning hippie movement. It was a time of profound social and political change, and Shandler embarked on an inner quest, seeking answers and purpose in his life.
Shandler's writing, from the initial dramatic escape from his irate father to the transformative closing tributes, exudes remarkable authenticity and fervor, effortlessly immersing readers in the heart of his personal odyssey. With an authentic and passionate voice, he artfully unravels his tale, rendering it not only enthralling but profoundly resonant. His narrative is an emotional rollercoaster featuring a cast of multifaceted characters. Readers are compelled to accompany him on his journey and his battle for inner serenity and self-acceptance.
Karma and Kismet is the story of one man's introspection as he embarks on a quest across continents, seeking personal growth and ultimately
finding serenity and spiritual fulfillment.
Author Bio:
Dr. Michael Shandler is a multi-published author as well as a co-author with his wife Nina Shandler of several books on health and communication. These include The Marriage and Family Book – A Spiritual Guide (Schocken Books, 1978), Ways of Being Together (Schocken Books, 1980), Yoga for Pregnancy and Birth, (Schocken Books, 1981). The Complete Guide and Cookbook for Raising a Vegetarian Child (Schocken Books, 1981, Ballantine Books, 1982). “A Lesson in Leadership” about Shandler’s experience in Johannesburg during apartheid was published in Chicken Soup for the Soul at Work (1996.) Shandler’s graphic novel co-authored with Michael Egan, Vroom: Turbo-Charged Teambuilding was published by the American Management Association in 1996.
Shandler is the former Director of Leadership and Organization Development at Arthur D. Little, London, and Founder of Vision Action Associates, an Amherst, MA based boutique consultancy helping leaders create and sustain high performing organizations.. Michael holds a master’s in counseling psychology and family therapy (1980), and a Doctorate in leadership and organizational development (1983), from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Shandler has consulted to and trained hundreds of leaders and their teams in organizations internationally. He is an experienced presenter and has appeared on CNN as an expert on culture change.
Shandler is an avid cyclist and yogi, husband of over fifty years, father, and grandfather of five incredible kids.
GOAL SMASHER
FULL BOOK TITLE: Goal Smasher: Hacking Neuroscience & Business for Breakout Personal Success
AUTHOR NAME: Audrey Lawrence
PUBLISHER NAME: GBH Press
"92% of people never see their ambitions come to fruition." This staggering statistic serves as the foundation for Audrey Lawrence's groundbreaking book, Goal Smasher. In a world where dreams often remain unrealized, Lawrence takes readers on an inspiring journey to challenge the status quo and discover the transformative power of success.
Audrey Lawrence, a TEDx speaker and acclaimed author, delves deep into the realm of neuroscience to unravel the secrets of achievement and personal development. With a wealth of knowledge and a passion for empowering individuals, Lawrence's work has earned recognition from major media outlets.
Goal Smasher is not just another self-help book; it's a roadmap for turning aspirations into realities. Lawrence combines scientific insights with practical strategies, offering readers a clear path to break free from the confines of the 92% and join the 8% who smash their goals.
Through engaging storytelling and actionable advice, Lawrence demonstrates that success is not a matter of luck but a science waiting to be understood. Whether you're striving for personal growth, career advancement, or entrepreneurial success, Goal Smasher equips you with the tools to overcome obstacles, rewire your mindset, and become a true achiever.
Lawrence's ability to distill complex concepts into relatable lessons makes Goal Smasher accessible to all, regardless of background or experience. Her insights inspire readers to dream big, set ambitious goals, and, most importantly, take decisive action.
Audrey Lawrence's Goal Smasher is a catalyst for transformation. Unlock your full potential and embark on a journey of growth with Goal Smasher.
Author Bio:
Audrey Lawrence is no stranger to overcoming odds. As the underdog in her journey as a dyslexic dropout, she embodies resilience and tenacity. Audrey's unconventional path led her through the hallowed halls of esteemed institutions like Harvard, Oxford, and Yale, where she gathered a wealth of wisdom. She firmly contends that success often lies in simplicity and little-known secrets, and her mission revolves around revealing those secrets and democratizing knowledge.
With numerous TED talks, an award-winning podcast, and recognition as a rising star by Authority Magazine, Audrey is a force to be reckoned with in the field of personal development. Her arsenal includes a diverse range of certifications from the best schools on earth, creating her unique blend of hacking neuroscience and business. Audrey's down-to-earth and relatable approach resonates with her audience, making complex ideas accessible through her workshops and courses.
Even renowned feminist Gloria Steinem commented about how in awe she was of Audrey's journey. In her upcoming book, Goal Smasher, slated for release this fall, she unlocks the secrets of neuroscience and business to offer actionable strategies that amplify results and pave the way for extraordinary success for all.
THE QUEEN'S EMERALD
FULL BOOK TITLE: The Queen’s Emerald
AUTHOR NAME: Cristiana-Maria Pavel
PUBLISHER NAME: Cristiana-Maria Pavel
The Queen's Emerald whisks readers away to a meticulously crafted world where piracy has long been a way of life. Inhabitants of the continent of lungetellus are no strangers to the disruptive attacks on trade ships and harbors, the only tumultuous events in an otherwise serene existence.
The protagonist, Axella, has only known of pirates through rumors and the occasional raid on her city of Portus Avorum. However, her world is forever altered when her brother, Maximinus, achieves the seemingly impossible: confronting and repelling the notorious pirate, Calogerus, during one such attack.
But fate takes a cruel turn as Maximinus and Axella's mother are seized by Calogerus and his crew. The ransom they demand is staggering—the Queen's Emerald, a legendary treasure concealed in the heart of Bazanthos, a continent east of Iungetellus.
Thus begins a high-stakes odyssey as Axella and Maximinus set out to obtain one of Eratrix's most coveted possessions, racing against the clock and overcoming numerous trials. With loyal companions by their side and unforeseen adversaries in their path, they uncover truths that will reshape their lives and the world they thought they knew.
While The Queen's Emerald offers an exciting adventure with an enticing premise, readers should be aware that the story introduces a multitude of characters, which can sometimes be challenging to follow. Navigating this complex web of personalities is key to fully enjoying the narrative.
The tale itself unfolds with gripping moments and unveils unexpected twists, both of which leave a lasting impression on the characters and the vivid world they inhabit. While the rich ensemble may at times be hard to follow, the reward lies in the depth and intricacy they bring to the overall narrative.
Readers are encouraged to immerse themselves in this dynamic journey, appreciating the complexities as they unfold and relishing the unexpected
turns that contribute to the unique flavor of The Queen's Emerald.
Author Bio:
Cristiana-Maria Pavel is a Romanian author with a passion for reading and writing fantasy novels. A Computer Science graduate as well as programmer, she’s always been fascinated by the idea of creating worlds and characters, and telling their stories. In her spare time, she enjoys going to the cinema, learning foreign languages and spending time with her cat and two dogs. To find out more, follow @cristiana.m.pavel on Instragram.