LITTLE BOY, I KNOW YOUR NAME
FULL BOOK TITLE: Little Boy, I Know Your Name: A Second-Generation Memoir from Inherited Holocaust Trauma
AUTHOR NAME: Mitchell Raff
PUBLISHER NAME: River Grove
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Little-Know-Your-Name-Second-Generation/dp/1632997630/
A Testament to Survival and the Shadows of the Past.
In Little Boy, I Know Your Name, Mitchell Raff delivers a haunting and deeply introspective memoir that spans decades of personal and inherited trauma. From the very first pages, it is clear that this is more than just a life story—it is an exploration of the weight of history.
Raff was raised by four Holocaust survivors, each carrying wounds too deep to articulate. His early years were shaped by their suffering, their unspoken grief, and their desperate attempts to shield him from horrors they themselves could not escape. But the past does not simply fade. When his mother—whom he barely remembered—suddenly reappeared and took him from the fragile stability he had known, his life veered into chaos. What followed was a harrowing journey that spanned continents, disrupted identities, and left lasting scars.
One of the most striking aspects of this memoir is its structure. Rather than unfolding in a linear fashion, Raff moves fluidly between past and present, mirroring the way trauma refuses to stay confined to any one moment in time. Flashbacks intertwine with flash-forwards, offering glimpses of what is to come before revealing the painful steps that led there. The effect is both disorienting and immersive, pulling readers into Raff’s fractured reality, where the past is never truly in the past.
His adulthood, though seemingly a world away from his childhood turmoil, is still shaped by the damage done. Addiction, loss, and self-destructive behaviors become recurring cycles, even as he builds a life as a husband and father. Yet amid the darkness, there is a persistent thread of hope. Through therapy, self-reflection, and an unrelenting will to survive, Raff slowly begins to unravel the tangled web of pain he inherited and inflicted.
At its core, Little Boy, I Know Your Name is not just about one man’s struggles—it is about the generational impact of trauma and the ways in which suffering manifests differently for each person who carries its weight. Raff does not offer easy answers or neatly tied resolutions, but he does offer truth—the kind that is raw and deeply affecting. His willingness to confront the most painful corners of his life makes this memoir a powerful and necessary read. This is a story of survival, but more than that, it is a story of reckoning. It is about finding a way to live with the past without being consumed by it, about confronting demons that have been left unnamed for too long. Through his unflinching honesty and evocative storytelling, Raff reminds us that while pain may be inherited, so too is resilience.
Author Bio:
A second-generation Holocaust survivor who grew up in Los Angeles. As a child, he was kidnapped and taken to Israel where he lived for a year and a half before the private investigator hired by his family located him. This led to a lifelong connection with the Jewish homeland, and as a young man, he returned to Israel to serve in the Israeli Defense Force.
A former business owner, Mitchell now resides in Southern California and is the owner and director of an outreach charity, Clothing the Homeless. Little Boy, I Know Your Name: A Second-Generation Memoir from Inherited Holocaust Trauma is his first book, and it is an intensely personal examination of how he survived being the child of survivors.
AUTUMN IN WOLF VALLEY
FULL BOOK TITLE: Autumn in Wolf Valley
AUTHOR NAME: Ed A. Murray
PUBLISHER NAME: Ed A. Murray
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZJ59Q18/
Autumn in Wolf Valleyby Ed A. Murray is a haunting, introspective novel that explores grief and the fragile process of healing in the aftermath of tragedy. This is a work of fiction that feels so much like the real thing, a testament to Murray’s immersive style.
The prologue sets the story’s deeply personal tone, introducing Howard Lynch, a man recently bereaved by the death of his wife, Amber. What begins as a routine assignment to write an anniversary article on a forgotten flood tragedy slowly morphs into a more profound and unsettling journey—one of rediscovery and confronting the painful remnants of a life shattered.
Murray’s writing has a literary quality that gives Autumn in Wolf Valley a Southern Gothic feel. The story smoothly shifts from a journalistic assignment to a personal journey through grief, making Howard’s emotional struggles feel natural and compelling. What sets the novel apart is how it blends Howard’s personal loss with the valley’s history of flooding, showing the connection between individual and collective trauma. As he uncovers the town’s past, he also begins to make sense of his own pain. His realization that Amber once rescued their dog, Coby, from the same farm as another stray he later encounters highlights the novel’s themes of fate and connection. These discoveries unfold gradually, just as Howard pieces together both the town’s history and his own sense of self.
The conclusion of Autumn in Wolf Valley brings Howard’s journey to a quiet but powerful close. As he walks through the woods with Coby and rebuilds his home, he clings to the familiar in a world forever changed. His determination to restore his house isn’t just about reclaiming a space—it’s about finding stability after loss. As the town slowly recovers, so does Howard. The floodwaters may have receded, but their impact lingers, much like the grief he carries. Yet, in the small moments of survival—the rescued books in his attic and Coby’s steady companionship—he finds a path forward.
Tender and introspective, Autumn in Wolf Valley explores the quiet strength it takes to move forward—reminding us that healing lies not in forgetting, but in carrying memory with grace.
Author Bio:
Ed A. Murray is an author, ghostwriter, business leader and University of Michigan alumnus. Autumn in Wolf Valley (2025) is his fourth book, all of which are set at least partially in his home state of Michigan, where he lives with his wife, two daughters and their mini Australian shepherd.
I BLEW MY DIET! NOW WHAT?
FULL BOOK TITLE: I Blew My Diet! Now What?: The Easy, Proven 21-Day Plan to Drop Pounds & Bounce Back Boldly
AUTHOR NAME: Connie Bennett
PUBLISHER NAME: Greenleaf Book Group
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Blew-My-Diet-NowWhat/dp/B0DHWG5QHZ/
I’ve read plenty of diet books, but I Blew My Diet! Now What? by Connie Bennett is something entirely different—it’s a refreshing, deeply insightful, and incredibly comprehensive guide to reclaiming control over food, emotions, and overall well-being. At 359 pages, this book is packed with a plethora of information, complete with an extensive index, valuable resources, and even original cartoons that bring humor and levity to a serious topic.
Bennett, a former carb-addicted journalist and bestselling author, knows firsthand how even the most dedicated health-conscious individuals can fall off track. After over a decade of eating clean, she found herself spiraling following the devastating loss of her mother. The weight gain, the guilt, the frustration—it all became overwhelming. But instead of staying stuck, she embarked on a seven-year journey to uncover the real reasons why we overeat and, more importantly, how we can truly bounce back boldly without shame or deprivation.
The book takes readers through a fascinating exploration of what happens when we "blow our diet," offering powerful insights into why we fall off track in the first place. Bennett goes deep into the emotional, psychological, and physiological triggers that lead to bingeing and unhealthy eating habits. This isn’t just about willpower—she explains how real-life stressors, ingrained habits, and even biochemical reactions make it incredibly difficult to stick to a diet without the right tools and mindset shifts.
What makes this book stand out is the Bounce Back Boldly Plan, a science-backed, easy-to-implement strategy designed to help readers regain control. The FEASTS (Fast, Easy, Awesome, Simple, Tested Strategies) approach provides practical, real-world solutions to help navigate cravings, emotional eating, and the rollercoaster of motivation. Bennett also includes guidance on blood-sugar-balanced, modified ketogenic (KetoMod) meal plans, making it easier to transition back into a healthy, sustainable way of eating.
But this isn’t just a book about food—it’s about emotions. Bennett introduces techniques to boost oxytocin (the feel-good hormone), reduce stress, and develop a mindset that fosters long-term success.
If you’ve ever struggled with dieting, this book is a game-changer. It’s not about guilt or failure—it’s about learning and bouncing back stronger. Bennett provides the tools, encouragement, and insight needed to heal both body and mind, making this a must-read for anyone looking to build a healthier, happier relationship with food.
Author Bio:
I'm a self-mocking, former sugar-and-carbs-addicted journalist, certified health coach, DreamBuilder coach, life coach, and bestselling author of Sugar Shock! (Berkley Books) and Beyond Sugar Shock (Hay House). My latest book, I Blew My Diet! Now What? (Greenleaf Book Group) was inspired my own experiences. I'm sure many of you will relate. After losing my dear mother, I overloaded on carbohydrate garbage (carbage), packed on 21 pounds, and felt like a big fraud. Now I'm is back to help readers like you discover why you, eat badly, how to make peace with food and yourself, and learn simple, science-based tools to Bounce Back Boldly™.
VINCIBLE
FULL BOOK TITLE: Vincible: A New Adult Comedy
AUTHOR NAME: Jay Jameston
PUBLISHER NAME: Dirty Kermit Press
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Vincible-Adult-Comedy-Jay-Jameston/dp/B0DVFSL17V/
Jay Jameston’s VINCIBLEis a razor-sharp and delightfully messy debut that captures the spirit of modern adulthood in all its cringe-inducing glory. With the wit of a stand-up comic and the soul of someone who’s been knocked down enough times to appreciate a good landing, Jameston delivers a novel that is laugh-out-loud funny, painfully honest, and sneakily profound.
At its core, VINCIBLE is a story of a guy trying—and frequently failing—to make sense of his career, relationships, and identity in a world that often feels rigged against sincerity. The protagonist is a modern everyman: flawed, often self-deprecating, but deeply relatable. Whether navigating HR disasters, dating-app drama, or café espresso machines, he moves through life like someone doing their best to swim through molasses—with charm, panic, and surprising bursts of insight.
Jameston has a gift for turning mundanity into comedy gold. His prose is punchy and his characters fully alive—even when they’re falling apart. The humor feels earned, often stemming from the protagonist’s inner contradictions and the absurdity of adulting in a hyper-connected, emotionally disorienting world. Think High Fidelity meets Fleabag, only with more bad coffee and worse decisions.
And yet, VINCIBLE isn’t content to coast on laughs alone. Beneath the jokes lies a thoughtful exploration of vulnerability, accountability, and the quiet resilience it takes to keep showing up—especially when nothing is going according to plan. The final chapters, particularly, encapsulates what makes this debut sing: an awkward reunion, workplace drama, lingering romantic tension, and moments of unexpected connection—all while grinding coffee beans by hand. It’s hilarious, cinematic, and strangely moving.
A standout entry into the canon of twenty-/thirty-something fiction, VINCIBLE is for anyone who’s been ghosted, fired, or just spectacularly misunderstood—and still managed to laugh about it later. Jay Jameston proves himself not just a keen observer of contemporary life, but a refreshingly original voice in fiction.
Highly recommended.
Author Bio:
If the name Jay Jameston sounds made up, that’s because it is. Jay was mocked in ninth-grade English class for pronouncing the “P” in pseudonym. Following university, Jay pursued a career in Human Resources to follow his lifelong passion of treating human beings like reusable resources. Jay Jameston was once invited to "Late Night with Seth Meyers" by a friend. They sat in the audience. Vincible is Jay’s first novel.
AN INNOCENT WORLD
FULL BOOK TITLE: An Innocent World
AUTHOR NAME: Douglas A. King
PUBLISHER NAME: Tellwell Talent
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Innocent-World-Douglas-King/dp/0228828880/
In this provocative work of Christian nonfiction, King poses a bold theological question: What if Adam and Eve had never eaten from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil? From this foundational thought experiment, An Innocent World explores an alternate moral framework in which humanity remains “Innocent,” choosing harmony and eternal life over suffering and mortality.
With a mix of philosophical speculation, biblical analysis, and accessible prose, King constructs a dualistic model of “Innocents” and “Guilty,” suggesting that free will and suffering are not punishments, but divine choices made before birth. He argues that sin arises not from inherent evil but from the acquisition of the knowledge of good and evil —and that God, too, has suffered, empathizing with the human condition. These conclusions, while unorthodox, are presented with a tone of reverence and intellectual curiosity, designed to challenge rather than dismantle traditional Christian beliefs.
King’s narrative voice is engaging and reflective, more akin to that of a thoughtful seminar leader than a polemicist. He weaves theology with discussions of politics, family, art, and culture, consistently returning to the central premise: that pain, growth, and divinity are intertwined in complex, preordained ways. While some readers may question the speculative leaps, others will find his metaphors—ranging from scriptural to sci-fi—refreshingly imaginative.
This ambitious volume invites readers of faith, philosophy, and spiritual inquiry to reconsider long-held assumptions. Though its scope is vast and its ideas unconventional, An Innocent World ultimately succeeds as a conversation-starter, encouraging reflection on suffering, salvation, and what it means to choose a life of meaning.
Author Bio:
Douglas A. King was born in 1948, the eldest of what he initially believed to be three children. Later in life, he discovered he had an older sister who had been given up for adoption—making him the first child his parents decided to keep. His early years were marked by instability; he was fostered out three times, the first before his first birthday. When he returned home after the third fostering, he had stopped speaking and carried the lasting effects of trauma.
Raised in a household overshadowed by his father’s alcoholism and his mother’s emotional detachment, he struggled with deep-seated neglect. His experiences led to a decades-long battle with depression, a condition he would later understand intimately. It wasn’t until he discovered antidepressants that he found relief, awakening to a newfound sense of purpose and determination. Despite academic struggles in his youth, he eventually found solace in mathematics, a subject that once eluded him but later became a source of joy. He pursued higher education in computer systems and developed a passion for learning. His journey took a transformative turn when he had a profound encounter with Jesus, bringing him a lasting sense of peace. Married to Marion, a woman whose resilience and composure in the face of adversity deeply influenced him, he found stability and strength. Their shared experiences, including advocating for their daughter against school bullying, shaped his perspective on confrontation and emotional control. His writing, including An Innocent World, draws from his life’s struggles and triumphs, offering readers an honest and deeply personal account of overcoming adversity. Today, he continues to write, reflect, and inspire others with his journey of resilience, faith, and self-discovery.
BRAVE NEW YOU
FULL BOOK TITLE: Brave New You: Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day
AUTHOR NAME: Mary Poffenroth Ph.D
PUBLISHER NAME: Workman Publishing Company
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Brave-New-You-Strategies-Courageously/dp/1523518618/
A biopsychologist explores the science of fear and offers a practical roadmap for cultivating everyday courage.
In this accessible and research-driven guide, Dr. Mary Poffenroth—a scientist with a PhD in psychology and an extensive background in biology and science communication—sets out to demystify the neuroscience behind fear while equipping readers with actionable tools to manage it. Drawing from both personal narrative and academic expertise, Poffenroth reframes fear not as an enemy to be vanquished, but as a deeply ingrained biological mechanism that can be harnessed for personal growth.
The book is divided into three sections: first, a redefinition of fear and courage, including a clear rejection of the myth of “fearlessness”; second, an examination of the “cages” of fear—biological, societal, and personal—that constrain human behavior; and third, a toolbox of cognitive and behavioral strategies, or “neurohacks,” aimed at building resilience and bravery. Notably, the book introduces the RAIN Method, a structured approach for managing fear in real time, along with “Bravery Breaks” and “Courage Quest” exercises that encourage reflection and action.
Poffenroth’s strength lies in her ability to synthesize complex psychological and biological concepts into digestible, relatable prose. Her tone is candid and often conversational, lending a sense of immediacy and warmth to a subject frequently addressed in clinical or abstract terms. Readers may find her personal anecdotes—growing up adopted, entering the world of academia as a first-generation college student, and working at NASA—both compelling and illustrative of her larger thesis: that courage is cultivated, not innate.
Though the volume leans occasionally on popular science tropes and reiterates familiar empowerment themes, its foundation in empirical research distinguishes it from more anecdotal works in the self-help genre. Readers seeking deeper scientific engagement may desire more extensive citations or discussion of current peer-reviewed studies, but the book’s goal is more pragmatic than academic. Its target audience is clearly the everyday reader—those navigating boardrooms, classrooms, or personal crossroads—who need a grounded yet optimistic framework for facing life’s uncertainties.
A well-structured, engaging guide that blends science and story to offer readers a fresh, realistic path to fear mastery.
Author Bio:
Dr. Mary Poffenroth, a biopsychologist, fear/courage researcher, and first-generation college student, began her career in the astrobiology unit at NASA Ames Moffett Field, supporting payload experiments for STS-107, the 28th flight of Space Shuttle Columbia. Backed by one of the world’s largest publishers, Mary’s award winning book, Brave New You: Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day (Hachette, 2024), offers readers an innovative solution for moving past stifling everyday fear and into a life filled with brave choices that result in transformational outcomes. Mary holds a doctorate in psychology and three master's degrees (biology, psychology, and science communication) and has taught nearly 20,000 university students as biology faculty at San Jose State University since 2007. A Salzburg Global Fellow, Mary has spoken at TEDx London, Harvard, and SXSW, INBOUND, and her work has been featured in legacy media outlets such as TIME magazine, Forbes, Science, Entrepreneur, the Wall Street Journal, Cosmopolitan, SUCCESS Magazine, and Fast Company.
SO YOU WANT TO BE AN EXTREMIST
FULL BOOK TITLE: So You Want To Be An Extremist
AUTHOR NAME: C.T. Jackson
PUBLISHER NAME: C.T. Jackson
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/You-Want-Extremist-Manifesto-Motivated-ebook/dp/B0DF62LYTR/
In So You Want To Be An Extremist, C.T. Jackson has accomplished something rare: a satirical field manual that is as riotously funny as it is disturbingly insightful. This book is equal parts comedy, commentary, and cautionary tale—a whip-smart takedown of modern radicalization dressed in the absurd camouflage of a how-to guide for aspiring fringe lunatics, basement prophets, and snake oil entrepreneurs.
Jackson, a self-described former government “lackey” turned humorist, invites readers on a madcap journey from mild disillusionment to full-blown ideological psychosis. The tone is pitch-perfect: sardonic but informed, sharp but never sanctimonious. In fact, it’s the book’s deadpan delivery that makes its jabs land so devastatingly well. Think The Anarchist Cookbook meets The Onion, with guest appearances from Alex Jones, Gwyneth Paltrow, and your cousin who won’t stop sending you Facebook videos about fluoride in the tap water.
The book is structured like a genuine self-improvement guide, complete with chapters like “Crafting Your Crazy,” “Merchandizing Madness,” and “Power to the Psychos.” Each section offers absurd, hyperbolic advice on how to reject reality, build your own cult of personality, and monetize your delusions. From monetizing crises to manufacturing outrage, Jackson outlines how today’s peddlers of disinformation build their followings—and fortunes—with alarming efficiency.
In one particularly brilliant passage from the opening chapter (“Welcome, Future Illuminatus”), Jackson skewers the existential ennui of the average disaffected citizen, flipping self-help tropes on their heads:
“Your lack of success is not because you are an incompetent, lazy dolt. No, it is due to a secret cabal of elitist, lizard people who have been plotting against you for decades.”
It’s satire, yes—but rooted in terrifying truths. The writing is sharp, irreverent, and dense with hilarious asides, footnotes, and layered references that reward readers who are paying attention. The blend of mock sincerity and real-world absurdity creates a unique reading experience: you’ll laugh, but you’ll also grimace with recognition at how close some of the book’s fictionalized “extremists” resemble real-life figures.
Despite its comic tone, So You Want To Be An Extremist is more than just a spoof—it’s a mirror held up to a fractured culture where fringe beliefs no longer feel that fringe, and where misinformation, monetized madness, and performative outrage have become both spectacle and business model. It’s a guide for the future Illuminatus, sure, but also a sharp map of the ideological minefield we’re all living in. Perfect for fans of political satire and cultural commentary—or anyone who wants to laugh at the madness of the modern world while secretly fearing it’s already too late.
Read this book. Then maybe read it again—just to make sure it wasn’t a long, brilliant hallucination.
Author Bio:
C.T. Jackson owes more than 3.5 million USD in bridge loans to several international banks. He has no intention of paying these loans back and has already spent the money on poor investments in the Juicero cold press juicer. (He really thought those were going to take off). . He received his master's degree in International Relations from Georgetown University for some reason. He is currently being held in a gilded cage at the Intercontinental Hotel in Davos, Switzerland. When he is not laundering his Amazon book royalties, he spends his time avoiding prison with his wife in Frankfurt, Germany.
THE MIRACLE MORNING AFTER 50
FULL BOOK TITLE: The Miracle Morning After 50: A Proven Path to Joy, Vitality, and Purpose for Aging Adults
AUTHOR NAME: Hal Elrod and Dwayne J. Clark
PUBLISHER NAME: BenBella Books
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-After-50-Vitality/dp/1637746199/
The Miracle Morning After 50: A Proven Path to Joy, Vitality, and Purpose For Aging Adults is an inspiring and practical guide tailored specifically for adults navigating life beyond their 50th birthday. Co-authored by Hal Elrod, creator of the bestselling The Miracle Morning series, and Dwayne J. Clark, a seasoned senior health and wellness expert, this book brings a fresh, focused perspective on how to thrive in the second half of life with vigor and purpose.
At its core, this book extends the transformative power of the original Miracle Morning routine — a morning practice built around six personal development habits, known by the acronym S.A.V.E.R.S. (Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, Scribing) — but adapts these timeless practices to meet the unique challenges and opportunities faced by aging adults.
The authors blend scientific insight with heartfelt personal stories to make a compelling case for why a purposeful morning routine can be a cornerstone for longevity and optimal healthspan. Dwayne Clark shares his years of experience caring for thousands of aging adults, highlighting the stark contrast between those who embrace proactive wellness habits and those who passively accept decline. His personal health journey and commitment to micro-habits for vitality add an authentic, relatable dimension to the book.
Hal Elrod’s own remarkable life story — surviving a near-fatal car accident, financial ruin, and cancer — provides the emotional backdrop and motivation for the Miracle Morning philosophy. His dedication to the S.A.V.E.R.S. routine over thousands of mornings demonstrates its potential to ignite transformation at any age.
The book is organized into two key parts. The first introduces readers to the S.A.V.E.R.S. routine customized for those over 50, offering strategies to wake up earlier and more intentionally, cultivate mental clarity, and build physical vitality. The second part expands the conversation to include “not-so-obvious” self-care strategies such as extending restorative rituals beyond the morning, optimizing nutrition and energy, reconnecting with nature, and living with a renewed sense of purpose.
Readers are also invited to join the vibrant Miracle Morning Community — a supportive, global network of practitioners sharing inspiration and accountability. Additionally, the book introduces helpful resources like the Miracle Morning app, the Miracle Morning movie, and exclusive book bonuses, all designed to deepen the reader’s journey.
This self-help book reminds us all that the best years can be ahead, and that how you start your morning can change the trajectory of your entire life.
Author Bio:
Dwayne Clark
Dwayne J. Clark is the co-founder and CEO of Aegis Living, which has more than 30 senior living facilities in the Western United States. Clark and Aegis Living have been widely recognized for their excellence of care to residents and employees alike, receiving a wide variety of awards including National Top 50 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor, Ernst & Young Pacific Northwest Entrepreneur of the Year, and Lifetime Achievement Awards from Senior Services, Sound Generations, and many more.
Clark is also the founder of True Productions, a production company sharing real-life stories through collaboration with writers, filmmakers, and playwrights. Clark was the producer for the documentary Full Court: The Spencer Haywood Story and executive producer for the award-winning film Big Sonia, among many others. Clark also wrote and produced the play Seven Ways to Get There in partnership with Seattle's ACT Theatre and has authored several books including 30 Summers More, A Big Life and My Mother, My Son.
See his latest feature on the Dr. Oz show here! - geni.us/dwayneonoz
Hal Elrod
Hal Elrod is on a mission to Elevate the Consciousness of Humanity, One Person at a Time. As the author of one of the highest rated books on Amazon, "The Miracle Morning" (which has been translated into 37 languages, has over 3,000 five-star reviews and has impacted the lives of over 2,000,000 people in more than 70 countries)... he is doing exactly that.
What's incredible is that Hal literally died at age 20. His car was hit head-on by a drunk driver at 70 miles per hour, his heart stopped beating for 6 minutes, he broke 11 bones and woke up after being in a coma for 6 days to be told by his doctors that he would probably never walk again.
THE UMBRA SIGNAL
FULL BOOK TITLE: The Umbra Signal
AUTHOR NAME: David Williams
PUBLISHER NAME: David Williams
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Umbra-Signal-CipherlockTM-Thriller-ebook/dp/B0FHJCZH76/
The Umbra Signal is an intriguing and complex work that challenges traditional storytelling. Written as a fragmented reconstruction rather than a conventional narrative, it invites readers to engage in a process of decryption—decoding layers of hidden truths and untold stories, each one a piece of a larger, encrypted puzzle. The narrative structure is designed to mimic the process of uncovering mysteries, as if every word and chapter holds a clue to understanding a greater truth.
The novel begins with ex-Air Force analyst Liam Mills, who finds himself caught in a labyrinth of puzzles that threaten not only his understanding of reality but also his very perception of time and memory. Joined by a linguist haunted by loss, a rabbi obsessed with meaning, and a conspiracy-hardened engineer, Liam must decipher a signal that transcends space and time, a cipher that seems to know them all too well.
The book is divided into three types of chapters: Cipher, Lock, and Cipherlock. Each chapter type presents a different aspect of the story: the Cipher chapters provide cryptic signals and fragments of discovery, often abstract and puzzling, forcing readers to think beyond the text; the Lock chapters introduce resistance and obstacles, suppressing the truth and creating tension; and the Cipherlock chapters represent moments of revelation where hidden truths break through, forcing their way into reality. This structure reflects the themes of knowledge, suppression, and the relentless pursuit of understanding.
At the core of The Umbra Signallies the mysterious "Umbra Initiative" and a fragmented artifact tied to Cold War archives, SETI anomalies, and encrypted transmissions from different nodes of time and space. The protagonist, a guard stationed at Groom Lake (Area 51), finds himself thrust into an inexplicable mystery as he encounters strange, unexplainable signals—signals that seem to cross the boundaries of time and reality. His isolated, eerie station becomes a stage for unraveling mysteries that extend far beyond what he—or the reader—could have imagined.
The narrative blends science fiction with psychological drama. The author's use of disjointed timelines and fragmented storytelling may feel disorienting, but it effectively pulls readers into the disjointed, fragmented nature of the protagonist’s world.
The Umbra Signal is not a book for those seeking a straightforward narrative. It requires active engagement, a willingness to piece together fragmented clues, and an openness to questioning reality. For those who enjoy thought-provoking, complex stories that explore themes of time, memory, and hidden truths, this book is a fascinating read.
Author Bio:
David Williams is a veteran, writer, and technologist. For more than twenty years, he worked on advanced systems at the intersection of environmental science, electronic signal analysis, and cryptographic research. Much of that work remains under nondisclosure, but it shaped the way he sees the world and how he writes. He helped develop patented mobile sensor platforms and methodologies that track invisible threats in real time. That experience taught him how systems behave under pressure and how meaning can hide in plain sight. It now informs how he approaches fiction, with a focus on precision, layering, and a sense of possibility just beyond the edge of known science. The Umbra Signal is his first novel, but it draws from years of work with classified data, Cold War archives, and a deep fascination with time, language, and memory. Beneath the surface of the story is a question that keeps echoing: who decides what gets remembered, and what gets erased? These days, he lives quietly and mostly off the grid. He spends his time scribbling in notebooks, exploring digital archives, and watching the sky for patterns. He believes fiction still has the power to surprise us. And sometimes, that surprise is the most powerful thing we have.
SON OF THE SIREN
FULL BOOK TITLE: Son of the Siren
AUTHOR NAME: Kristina Elyse Butke
PUBLISHER NAME: Oliver Heber Books
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Son-Siren-Kristina-Elyse-Butke/dp/1648395767/
I have to say, Son of the Sirenis such a fun read! From the very first page, I was hooked into the magical world of Elythia, and I couldn't put it down. The story follows Lirien, who’s caught in a whirlwind of trouble thanks to his siren mother and a really bad decision from his stepmother, the Queen. After his father’s death (lured out to sea by Lirien’s mom), the Queen forces Lirien to use his siren song to bring him back, but that totally backfires. Instead of fixing things, it makes her fall in love with Lirien. Naturally, that leads to chaos—she uses a powerful magical stone that turns Lirien’s siblings into animals, and now Lirien has to go on a mission to save them.
The world-building in this book is just fantastic. The author really knows how to bring Elythia to life—there are fae, elves, shape-shifting creatures, and all kinds of magical beings that make the world feel alive and exciting. What I loved most about this story is the heart at the center of it. Lirien isn’t just trying to undo a spell; he’s fighting to save his family, and that emotional pull really makes you care about what happens next. His relationship with his siblings is at the core of the book, and it’s clear that no matter how much magic gets in the way, his family always comes first.
Now, Lirien himself? He’s a great protagonist—kind of like a lost boy trying to figure out where he fits in the world, especially with his siren powers. He’s not perfect, but that’s what makes him so relatable. His personal growth is what really carries the story, and you can’t help but root for him every step of the way. I also really enjoyed Kitra, the fae fox who tags along with him. She’s witty, quirky, and adds a lot of charm to the story, lightening up some of the heavier moments.
The pacing is pretty fast, which I liked, but I’ll admit, there were a few moments where the story felt a little bogged down with side plots. The whole monster-in-the-winter-woods thing didn’t really add much to the central quest of finding Lirien’s siblings, and I kind of wished the focus stayed more on that journey. But honestly, that’s a minor gripe. The adventure itself is so engaging, I was still completely invested in seeing where Lirien’s journey would take him next.
The magical elements were pretty fun, too—there’s the havoc stone, shape-shifting, and the fae, and while there’s a lot going on, it doesn’t ever feel like it’s too much. Everything ties back to the central theme of family and love in a really satisfying way.
Overall, Son of the Siren is a fast-paced, magical ride with a lot of heart. If you’re into fantasy with a touch of adventure, some sibling drama, and a dash of romance, you’re going to love this one. It’s perfect for young adult readers, but honestly, anyone who enjoys a good fantasy story will find something to enjoy here. Definitely a recommended read if you’re looking for something magical and fun!
Author Bio:
Kristina Elyse Butke is the author of the YA fantasy Son of the Siren, (2024) published by Oliver Heber Books. She has a forthcoming YA romantasy trilogy to be published by Oliver Heber Books in 2026 and 2027. She is currently a writer covering manga and anime for the Eisner-winning comics resource The Beat.
She earned her MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University in 2013, which allowed her to teach English Composition as an adjunct professor. Soon after, Kristina moved to Kumamoto prefecture in Japan to teach English to high school students for six years through the prestigious JET Program. Upon return, she was back teaching college again.
Not only has Kristina lived abroad in Japan, but she also briefly studied overseas in Wales as an undergraduate. Her time in both countries–the Dragon Lands–serve as creative inspiration, and her experiences abroad have changed her life and her perspective. The fantastical settings and creatures she creates are often sourced from her time in Japan and Wales.
When Kristina isn’t reading, writing, or cosplaying, you can find her wandering languidly through dark forests, the more whimsical, the better. For everywhere Kristina is on the web, check out her Linktree!
THE LAST BATTLE
FULL BOOK TITLE: THE LAST BATTLE: Becoming Someone Else
AUTHOR NAME: Thomas Mayhew
PUBLISHER NAME: Unpublished
LINK: www.thelastbattle.live
In this unflinching memoir, Thomas Mayhew chronicles an eleven-year odyssey through ambition, addiction, near-death experiences, and the messy work of rebuilding a fractured sense of self.
Opening with the collapse of a dream to attend West Point, Mayhew charts the domino effect of one decision after another—some reckless, others desperate—that pull him into a life of drug trafficking, substance dependence, and personal alienation. The prose is immediate and immersive, often cinematic in detail, whether describing high school pranks gone awry or the claustrophobic tension of handling illicit shipments. What distinguishes the book from standard addiction memoirs is its refusal to sentimentalize the journey; the author spares neither himself nor those around him, maintaining a clear-eyed view of the damage inflicted.
Mayhew’s narrative voice is at once raw and self-aware, blending confessional honesty with a storyteller’s instinct for pacing. Extended passages of introspection slow the momentum in places, but they also lend the work its emotional weight, showing a man confronting the role of childhood trauma, family dynamics, and personal ego in shaping his path.
While readers seeking a tidy redemption arc may find the resolution understated, those drawn to memoirs that resist easy moralizing will appreciate the authenticity here. The Last Battle is less a cautionary tale than a record of survival, told by a writer intent on owning every scar.
A gritty, candid memoir that turns a decade of missteps into a testament to endurance and self-reinvention.
SUCH A PRETTY PICTURE
FULL BOOK TITLE: Such a Pretty Picture: A Memoir
AUTHOR NAME: Andrea Leeb
PUBLISHER NAME: She Writes Press
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Such-Pretty-Picture-Andrea-Leeb/dp/1647429943/
In Such a Pretty Picture, Andrea Leeb delivers an emotionally raw memoir, recounting her harrowing journey from childhood abuse to the difficult process of healing. At just four and a half years old, Andrea’s life was irrevocably altered by a traumatic encounter with her father, setting the stage for years of unspoken pain and suffering. Her mother, Marlene, witnesses the event and succumbs to a temporary, but symbolic, blindness—a blindness that extends beyond her eyes and into her willingness to confront the truth.
Leeb is very skilled in weaving together the devastating impact of sexual abuse, the silence it demands, and the complex, often suffocating shame that follows. Despite enduring a childhood marked by fear and secrecy, Andrea survives. Yet, as she grows older, the scars of her past remain hidden beneath the surface, only to resurface when a triggering event at age 33 forces her to confront what she had long buried.
The beauty of Such a Pretty Picturelies not just in its exploration of trauma, but in its portrayal of handling the adversity associated with it. Leeb does not shy away from showing the deep emotional toll of her experiences—whether it’s the bullying and rumors at school or the internalized guilt that complicates her sense of self-worth. And yet, amidst the pain, there is an undeniable thread of hope.
Leeb’s writing is sharp and unapologetically honest. Through vivid, often haunting imagery, she draws readers into her world—a world where the body becomes a battleground and the mind struggles to reconcile with unspeakable truths. Her exploration of her teenage years, particularly her struggles with shame and body image, is deeply personal and offers just a glimpse into her broader reflection on how trauma shapes the way we navigate the world.
The book culminates when Andrea finally allows herself to confront her past.
Leeb’s story is a deeply empathetic and inspiring one, reminding readers that while the path to recovery is long and complicated, it is always possible. Such a Pretty Picture is a must-read for anyone seeking a greater understanding of trauma and the complexities of healing from abuse.
Author Bio:
Andrea Leeb has an MFA from Bennington Writing Seminars. Her work has been published in numerous journals including Litro Magazine, the Potomac Review, Text Power and Telling Magazine, and HerStry. Previously, Andrea worked as an attorney and a registered nurse. Currently, she spends her time writing, practicing yoga and volunteering with non-profits. Andrea lives in Venice Beach, California with her husband, Paul.
LIFE IS LIFEY
FULL BOOK TITLE: Life is Lifey
AUTHOR NAME: Sarah Shahi
PUBLISHER NAME: She Writes Press
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Lifey-Navigating-Lifes-Middle/dp/B0DYZZDKHG/
In Life Is Lifey: The A to Z's on Navigating Life's Messy Middle, Sarah Shahi offers a refreshing, unfiltered take on self-help—one that’s equal parts raw honesty, humor, and irreverence. Through the lens of her own transformation, Shahi takes readers on a wild ride through the highs and lows of adulting, relationships, motherhood, and the pursuit of a life that’s messy in all the right ways. This book isn’t about having it all together; it’s about accepting that life’s messes are what make us real and ultimately stronger.
With the wit of a best friend who’s been through it all, Shahi guides readers through her personal journey—from a chaotic marriage and eventual divorce to finding her true self amidst the unpredictable tides of life. She’s the first to admit that life doesn’t follow a neat and tidy script—sometimes it’s ugly, sometimes it’s awkward, and sometimes it’s downright hilarious. But through it all, she embraces the mess, and through her stories, readers are encouraged to do the same.
One of the standout chapters—Blowjobs—perfectly encapsulates the book’s candid and humorous tone. In this chapter, Shahi humorously reflects on a moment from her early adulthood when she attended a blowjob class led by the infamous Lou Paget. With a mix of hilarity and empowerment, Shahi navigates the awkwardness of sexual exploration, offering a funny, yet insightful perspective on breaking taboos and embracing sexuality in a way that’s both playful and empowering. While the chapter is laugh-out-loud funny, it also serves as a metaphor for how we all need to approach the messy, uncomfortable moments in life—with confidence, humor, and a willingness to lean into the awkwardness.
Each chapter of Life Is Lifey is full of personal stories and practical advice. Whether she’s discussing how to juggle the demands of being a single mother, reclaiming your passion after a long marriage, or simply surviving the daily grind, Shahi offers practical tips for embracing life’s challenges. Her no-nonsense attitude encourages readers to stop seeking perfection and start focusing on authenticity and self-empowerment.
The A to Z format is both lighthearted and insightful, giving readers the chance to explore life’s messiest moments with Shahi as their guide.
In the end, Life Is Lifey isn’t just a self-help book—it’s a battle cry for women who are ready to break the rules and live life on their own terms. Shahi’s irreverent approach will leave you laughing, thinking, and, most importantly, ready to embrace the mess. Life may be messy, but as Shahi says, it’s all part of the adventure.
Author Bio:
Resilience, grace, and versatility define Sarah Shahi, a powerhouse actress, producer, and author. Celebrated for her distinctive roles, Shahi gained inspiration for her characters from her own life experiences and observations, which she channels into her storytelling on- and off-screen. Shahi skyrocketed to global fame as the lead in Netflix’s highly talked-about limited series, Sex/Life, where she became a symbol of female empowerment, unapologetic passion, and self-discovery. A proud first-generation Persian American, she fiercely advocates for women who lack a voice, using her signature humor and raw honesty to inspire change. Shahi embraces every challenge with the same fearlessness she brings to the screen, proving that reinvention isn’t just a role she plays—it’s who she is. Splitting her time between Texas and LA, Shahi is a devoted single mom to three wildly energetic kids—Wolf, Violet, and Knox—who keep her on her toes and in need of a nap. Their love-filled household also includes three dogs—Star, Hershey, and Cranberry—because, clearly, she thrives on mayhem. It’s a wonder she even had time to write this book.
BIG EARS JACK AND FRIENDS
FULL BOOK TITLE: Big Ears Jack and Friends
AUTHOR NAME: Earl Vincent de Berg
PUBLISHER NAME: Earl Vincent de Berg
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Ears-Jack-Friends-Vincent-Berge/dp/B0DM6NPZPY/
Earl Vincent de Berge’s Big Ears Jack and Friendsis a delightful collection of whimsical tales set in the vibrant landscapes of Baja California, Mexico. Through a cast of colorful characters and vivid storytelling, de Berge transports readers into a world where the natural beauty of deserts, verdant hills, and coastal beaches comes alive with imagination and charm.
At the heart of these stories is Big Ears Jack, a jackrabbit magician with a knack for finding adventure and helping friends. Alongside him, readers meet an eclectic ensemble of animal and natural-world characters, including Miss Mucha Purrs, a clever bobcat; Swindler, a seagull with a flair for scheming; Paulina the Puma poet; and Diana, a musical tarantula. Each tale introduces readers to a unique character or scenario, blending moral lessons, humor, and a touch of magic.
The structure of the book allows for engaging standalone stories, such as “Big Ears Jack Meets Miss Mucha Purrs,” where friendship and trust are explored, or “Swindler and the Packrats,” a playful tale of cunning and community. Other highlights include “How Some Desert Birds Got Their Names,” which reads like a folkloric origin story, and “Sheriff Diamondback and the Egg-Thieving Coyotes,” a suspenseful account of justice in the desert.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its world-building. De Berge weaves the flora and fauna of Baja California into the narrative, making the setting feel like a character itself. Talking cacti, dust devils playing tag, and wise desert tortoises enrich the stories, placing readers in an enchanting ecosystem where the line between reality and fantasy blurs.
The themes of community, creativity, and environmental respect run throughout the collection. Young readers will enjoy the magical adventures and witty dialogue, while adults will appreciate the underlying messages about cooperation, individuality, and harmony with nature.
The epilogue, “If You Decide to Explore in the Desert,” provides practical tips for safely navigating the Sonoran Desert while celebrating its surprisingly vibrant ecosystem. Contrary to its seemingly barren reputation, the desert is alive with ingenious adaptations, from cactus wrens to resilient plant life. This chapter underscores the importance of preparation—packing sturdy shoes, protective clothing, plenty of water, and informing someone of your plans. At the same time, it invites readers to marvel at the desert’s unique beauty while treading lightly to honor its delicate balance.
De Berge’s prose carries a lyrical charm, painting the beauty of Baja California and the whimsical nature of its inhabitants. Each tale stands alone, making the collection ideal for bedtime stories or thoughtful classroom discussions.
Big Ears Jack and Friends invites readers into an imaginative world, sparking a sense of wonder and leaving behind a profound appreciation for nature’s splendor and its remarkable creatures.
Author Bio:
An Arizona native, Earl is a poet and photographer, writing eclectically on everything from the environment to gold mining camps, time, war, poverty, shadows, sexuality, friendship, hermits, children, hope, aging, coyotes, hawks, brigands, fools, danger and death. A social scientist by training, he founded Behavior Research Center, Inc. in 1965, where he created and was Editor of the respected and widely published Rocky Mountain Poll for 35 years. Earl's photographs, logbooks and essays serve as foundations for his prose and poems. Big Ears Jack and Friends is a charming series of short stories featuring animals and plants of the Sonoran Desert for young readers.
Earl has published 3 collections of poems, the most recent is Wind in the Elephant Tree, following Swans to Guide Me and Allegro to Life, both published in 2022. A Finger of Land on An Old Man's Hand is a fascinating account, laced with his poetry and photos, of his adventures as a young man in the Sonoran deserts of Baja California, Mexico, and Arizona. Earl is currently writing a biography of an iconoclastic poet, while continuing to write new poems.
Earl and his wife Suzanne split their time between Arizona and Guatemala where they founded the non-profit www.SeedsforaFuture.org which provides training to rural women with limited financial resources on how to improve family access to adequate food and nutrition, via home gardens and raising small animals for protein.
JOY PRESCRIPTIONS
FULL BOOK TITLE: Joy Prescriptions: How I Learned to Stop Chasing Perfection and Embrace Connection
AUTHOR NAME: Tiffany Moon
PUBLISHER NAME: Legacy Lit
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Joy-Prescriptions-Learned-Perfection-Connection/dp/0306834537/
Tiffany Moon’s Joy Prescriptions: How I Learned to Stop Chasing Perfection and Embrace Connection is a heartfelt, humorous, and deeply personal exploration of what it truly means to live a joyful life. As a successful anesthesiologist, wife, and mother, Moon seemingly had it all, yet she found herself trapped in the relentless pursuit of perfection. In this engaging memoir and self-help guide, she shares her journey offering readers practical takeaways along the way.
The book is structured into two parts, each filled with insightful chapters that guide readers through different aspects of Moon’s personal evolution. The opening chapter, "Choose Your Own Adventure," sets the tone by encouraging readers to let go of the past, while "Compare and Contrast" explores the pitfalls of comparison and the importance of embracing one’s own path. Each chapter follows a similar format, introducing a challenge or struggle Moon has faced and concluding with a "Joy Prescription"—a tangible, actionable lesson to help readers cultivate happiness in their own lives.
Moon’s writing is refreshingly candid, and she does not shy away from sharing the exhaustion and emotional toll of striving for perfection. Her introduction paints a vivid picture of her daily life, balancing demanding medical work with motherhood, all while neglecting her own well-being. She details a moment of realization when a friend suggests self-care—a concept she initially dismisses as unnecessary until she begins to acknowledge the negative impact of burnout.
One of the standout sections of the book is "If You Don’t Laugh, You’ll Cry," where Moon recounts how stand-up comedy helped her shift her perspective on life. Through humor, she discovers that laughter is not just a distraction but a powerful tool for processing life’s hardships. She illustrates this transformation with anecdotes from both her professional and personal life.
Moon’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that joy is not found in achievement alone but in embracing imperfection, fostering meaningful relationships, and allowing oneself to laugh. Whether you’re a high-achiever struggling with burnout or simply someone seeking more joy in everyday life, this book offers wisdom, relatability, and a much-needed dose of humor.
Author Bio:
Doctor by day and Bravo’s Real Housewife by night, Dr. Tiffany Moon is a board-certified anesthesiologist, entrepreneur, and author of Joy Prescriptions. A proud mother of twins and dynamic television and social media personality, she is known for inspiring women to lead with confidence and purpose.
An immigrant to the United States, Dr. Moon’s story is one of resilience and excellence. She graduated from Cornell University at 19, earned her medical degree with Alpha Omega Alpha Honors from UT Southwestern, and completed her anesthesiology residency at UCSF. She has been named one of D Magazine’s Best Doctors, authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications, been recognized as a Distinguished Educator by the American Society of Anesthesiologists, and serves as an Oral Board Examiner for the American Board of Anesthesiology.
Beyond medicine, Dr. Moon is a passionate entrepreneur. She is the founder and CEO of Aromasthesia Candle Company, Three Moons Wine, and LeadHer Summit, a transformative conference empowering women leaders across industries.
TRIBULATIONS
FULL BOOK TITLE: Tribulations: The Gem Keepers Saga Book 2
AUTHOR NAME: Timothy M. David
PUBLISHER NAME: Gem Keeper Creations
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Tribulations-Keepers-Saga-Timothy-David/dp/B0DHY7HGRH/
Timothy M. David’s Tribulations, the second installment of The Gem Keepers Saga, plunges readers deeper into the intense, high-stakes journey of Emma and her fellow Gem Keepers. This latest chapter explores themes of love and sacrifice as Emma faces the darkest trials yet, pushing her to the edge of survival and testing her deepest convictions. Through the story’s complex interplay of relationships and emotional challenges, readers witness a powerful tale of friendship, loyalty, and the price of heroism.
The Gem Keepers—equipped with unique abilities like empathic powers, are more than just a superhero team. They are bound by shared trauma and sacrifice, particularly Emma and her love interest, Natalie. David builds on the foundational themes from The Imposed Path, intensifying the stakes with new threats and allies. Emma, the Purple Gem Keeper, with abilities ranging from elemental control to energy blasts, now faces tribulations that bring her to an existential crossroads. Her inner conflict—whether to hold on to her powers and their consequences or to let go and find peace—is captured vividly in the book’s final chapter, where she grapples with the pain and joy her journey has brought her.
David’s writing in Tribulationsstrikes a balance between introspective depth and action-packed scenes, taking readers on a rollercoaster. Emma’s reflections on her losses, the love she shares with Natalie, and her responsibilities as a leader highlight her growth and resilience. As she considers her relationship with Natalie and the burden her life may place on those she loves, David illustrates the hero’s journey in a way that resonates with universal themes of love, duty, and self-doubt. The story’s powerful climax, with Emma choosing her path forward in a moment of self-sacrifice and remembrance, showcases David’s skill at blending character-driven storytelling with vivid, immersive prose.
At 426 pages, Tribulations is a powerful continuation of The Gem Keepers Saga, filled with rich dialogue and a complex storyline. David skillfully blends deep moral questions with an expansive, imaginative world, immersing readers in Emma's journey and the strong bonds she shares with her friends.
This action-packed and emotional installment explores identity, purpose, and sacrifice, making it a must-read for fans of epic, heartfelt storytelling.
Author Bio:
Timothy M. David is a recently retired 24 year veteran. He is an avid Sci-Fi and Comic Book fan, but enjoys horror fantasy and crime stories as well. As a hobby he would write short stories, and came up with the idea for the Gem Keepers Saga during his last overseas assignment. He enjoyed the characters and story so much, he started writing his first novel. What was expected to be a single novel, has now become an estimated seven part series. He has many other stories he would like to convert to novels, and make his author dream come true. He hopes people will enjoy his stories, and become fans of his work.
