Book review of Essentials Vol. 2 by Luke Arnold and Chris “Doc” Wyatt . ISBN: 9781964226217 < Back Essentials Vol. 2 Luke Arnold and Chris “Doc” Wyatt apocalypse survival thriller, graphic novel, cosmic sci-fi, grief, individuality The Lab Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Completing the story from Volume 1, Essentials Vol. 2 follows a scientist and his alien sidekicks trying to stop Earth from colliding with a non-physical alien dimension. In Essentials Vol. 2, co-writers Luke Arnold and Chris “Doc” Wyatt continue worldbuilding the series into a deeply affecting meditation on how grief and sacrifice reveal the fragile beauty of human connection. Whereas the opening installment of Essentials Vol. 1 thrusted readers into a relentless struggle to survive an apocalypse that constantly reshaped reality, the sequel slows its pace just enough to ask a more enduring question: Once the world ends, what remains worth saving? This evolution is immediately reflected in the graphic novel’s visual language. Moving beyond the frenetic horror that defined the first volume, Essentials Vol. 2 adopts a more deliberate rhythm, using distinct color palettes to differentiate each chapter and the dimensions it explores to converge into a story that feels simultaneously both expansive yet intimate. Although the narrative traverses surreal dreamscapes and ethereal planes of existence, Arnold and Wyatt never allow high-concept science fiction to eclipse the emotional journeys of their characters. Every impossible landscape reflects recognizable human fears, hopes, and regrets, grounding the series’ cosmic scope in the universal experience of mortality. These emotional stakes find their clearest expression in Harris Pax, whose protective suit and fortified bunker evolve beyond mere survival tools to symbolize the emotional walls he has built around himself. Having devoted himself to rescuing “dreamers” trapped within escapist realities, Harris proves remarkably adept at saving everyone…except himself. His greatest burden remains the unresolved loss of his brother’s family, who ascended into a higher plane during the apocalypse. One of the volume’s most haunting sequences sees incorporeal spirits inhabiting his niece’s abandoned toys, transforming familiar childhood keepsakes into tangible reminders of grief. It is a striking example of the series at its best, blending surreal science fiction with profound personal loss. Counterpointing this notion is the narrative’s emotional portrayal of the younger generation. Through Harris’ niece and other children growing up after the apocalypse, Arnold and Wyatt explore how their minds construct meaning amid catastrophe, clinging to treasured objects and magical thinking as they make sense of a world they never knew before it fractured. Their innocence never reads as naïveté or escapism as much as a form of resilience, revealing how hope prevails in even the bleakest circumstances. Yet underlying these personal stories is a larger philosophical conflict. The invading entities promise transcendence through a divine collective, offering liberation from suffering by dissolving individuality itself. A peaceful, united world void of death, hatred, or conflict initially appears seductive, however, Arnold and Wyatt ultimately argue that humanity derives its meaning from contrast: Joy cannot exist without sorrow, courage without fear, nor compassion without suffering. That philosophy culminates in the recognition that humanity’s greatest strength lies in its impermanence, in which morality (not survival) is the true brevity of life, for it is this very condition of genuine selflessness that gives love, sacrifice, and compassion their meaning. The creators elect not to frame this series as an idealization of assimilation as salvation, leaning instead toward the abandonment of the imperfect kind of individualism that makes humans, well, human. Where its predecessor excelled as an inventive survival thriller, Essentials Vol. 2 broadens the series into something more emotionally expansive. Now, the cosmic spectacle serves an even richer purpose, using interdimensional conflict to explore identity, memory, and, most critically, the courage to remain vulnerable. In this thoughtful continuation, Arnold and Wyatt remind readers that to carry “only the essentials” throughout one’s lifetime means knowing what is truly worth holding onto. Previous Next

Book review of Walking on Nathan's Grave: A Tale Traversing Heaven and Hell by R. Luce . ISBN: < Back Walking on Nathan's Grave: A Tale Traversing Heaven and Hell R. Luce Contemporary Romance, Historical Fiction, LGBTQ Ronald W. Luce Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest After a painful breakup sends a writer into a spiral of self-destruction, he finds hope and healing in a new town, where a budding romance with a police officer intertwines with the investigation of a historical murder case that challenges both their pasts and their futures. "Walking on Nathan's Grave: A Tale Traversing Heaven and Hell" by R. Luce is an introspective exploration of love, devastating loss, and the arduous journey of rediscovering oneself. Written in a reflective style, this book is perfect for readers who appreciate deep emotional narratives centered on personal growth and resilience. The story unfolds over several months, primarily between Chicago and Emberland, Ohio, as the protagonist navigates his emotional recovery and embarks on new beginnings. The core conflict immediately immerses us in the protagonist's raw grief following a painful breakup with his partner, Matt. We witness his descent into self-destructive behaviors—alcohol, drugs, and casual sex—a stark depiction of his initial struggles. Yet, with the unwavering support of friends, especially David Grayson, and a vital moment of self-realization, he begins the arduous task of rebuilding his life. This pivotal decision leads him to leave Chicago for Emberland, Ohio, seeking a much-needed fresh start. In Emberland, the narrative introduces Jake Davidson, a passionate police officer who draws the protagonist into the intriguing world of an unsolved 1870s murder case. As they delve into the research, a new kind of tension emerges: the protagonist's growing attraction to Jake, battling his deep-seated fears of being hurt again. Their relationship deepens amidst the grim discovery of a grisly tale of murder and mob justice. Through this shared endeavor, the protagonist's journey of healing and self-discovery is further supported by his evolving connection with Jake. The resolution sees the protagonist and Jake finally confronting their feelings for each other. The protagonist bravely voices his fears, met with Jake's understanding and supportive response. They express a genuine desire to continue exploring their connection, leaving the reader with a powerful sense of hope and resilience. The story concludes with the protagonist learning to trust again and finding renewed meaning in his life and work, underscoring the vital roles of friendship, self-reflection, and the courage to embrace new possibilities. "Walking on Nathan's Grave: A Tale Traversing Heaven and Hell" is an emotional journey that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the complexities of love and loss. It emphasizes the transformative impact of personal growth, the invaluable support of friends, and the sheer courage required to start anew. Previous Next

< Back Marty Brown Named New Director of Oregon State University Press June 26, 2026 at 11:07:31 PM Oregon State University Press has named Marty Brown as its fifth director, marking a homecoming for a publishing veteran who previously spent nearly a decade with the organization. As the director of Oregon's only university press, Brown will task herself with balancing a dual mission: publishing peer-reviewed academic scholarship and producing foundational regional works that focus on the Pacific Northwest. Anne-Marie Deitering, the Delpha and Donald Campbell Dean of Libraries at OSU said "Marty’s experience positions her perfectly to build on the press’s rich history in a sustainable and forward-looking way," in a statement announcing the hire. "She brings deep experience with book publishing in the Pacific Northwest." Brown steps into the role with more than 25 years of experience in the publishing industry. Most recently, she oversaw operations at the University of Washington Press and Timber Press . She is also an active board member of the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association , maintaining strong existing ties to the state's authors, booksellers, and independent publishers. Beyond her executive experience, Brown has an entrepreneurial and educational background in the region. She previously ran a boutique letterpress printing business and developed and taught the first business-focused course within Portland State University’s publishing program. Brown expressed a strong sense of responsibility regarding her return to the institution, calling OSU Press "the last, best university press in Oregon." "The work that we do to publish peer-reviewed scholarship and regional books is more important than ever, and I am humbled to be part of it," Brown said. Under her leadership, OSU Press is expected to maintain its focus on highlighting the diverse people and environments of the Pacific Northwest while continuing to expand broader academic discourse through its scholarly titles. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Barnes & Noble Revamps Woodmere Location Amid Rapid Ohio Expansion October 5, 2026 at 7:08:20 AM According to an Axios report , Barnes & Noble has officially reopened its longtime Eton Chagrin Boulevard store following a top-to-bottom makeover, marking the latest milestone in the book retailer’s aggressive footprint expansion across Ohio. The refreshed 20,000-square-foot location unveiled its updated look on Wednesday. The redesign features the company's modernized store layout, updated interior aesthetic, and a significantly expanded café designed to offer an upgraded, stay-and-read community experience. The Woodmere location has been an anchor at Eton Chagrin Boulevard for 23 years, having first opened its doors in 2003. Its major makeover highlights a broader, multi-year strategy by the nation's largest physical bookseller to reinvest in key regional markets. Barnes & Noble has opened seven new stores across Ohio over the past four years alone, including recent openings in Strongsville and Aurora. Broadening its state footprint even further, the chain acquired Cincinnati’s iconic independent bookstore operator , Joseph-Beth Booksellers, earlier this month. Company officials signaled that Ohio remains a priority market for growth, with additional state investments and developments planned in the near future. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Your Data, Their Wealth: The Price of Human Input to the AI Economy by James Felton Keith . ISBN: 9798989791453 < Back Your Data, Their Wealth: The Price of Human Input to the AI Economy James Felton Keith political economy, digital economy, data unions, ownership, wealth distribution Keith Institute Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In an AI-driven economy that profits from the hidden traces of ordinary life, a bold economist argues that everyday human behavior is productive labor—and that the public deserves ownership, bargaining power, and a share of the wealth it creates. Most discourse surrounding artificial intelligence is fixated on the symptoms: privacy concerns, hallucinations, or existential safety risks. In Your Data, Their Wealth: The Price of Human Input to the AI Economy, James Felton Keith pivots from these tactical debates to the structural heart of the matter: political economy. Keith posits that we are living through a new enclosure movement, one where the raw materials of the modern economy are not land or oil, but the continuous, productive output of human life itself. The book’s central strength lies in its relentless dismantling of the term “user.” Keith argues that by framing people as passive consumers of digital services, tech firms have effectively institutionalized a system that obscures our role as the primary producers of AI intelligence. Every search, click, correction, and cultural expression is not merely a byproduct of digital life; it is a vital input that improves systems, sharpens predictions, and drives profit. Keith replaces the hollow, thin concept of “data” with the richer, more visceral idea of “traces of life.” These traces—behavioral patterns, collective rhythms, and inferred preferences—are the assets that companies aggregate to consolidate power, reduce uncertainty, and eventually dominate markets. Keith’s analysis of how these traces are converted into capital is sharp and sobering. He traces the legal and economic architecture that allows socially generated value to be privately enclosed, explaining how property, labor, and privacy laws have systematically left the public “blurry and undercounted.” By drawing on information theory and business metrics, he demonstrates that the low or non-existent “price” paid for our contributions is a result of structural power imbalances, not a reflection of low economic worth. When human behavior is digitized and scaled, it generates tangible gains in operating performance and investor valuation, yet the contributors remain locked out of the upside. The final section of the book is where Your Data, Their Wealth shifts from a brilliant diagnosis to a manual for institutional redesign. Keith does not merely complain; he proposes a future built on multi-level ownership. He advocates for data unions, collective bargaining structures, and "Data Dividends" that would allow individuals to share in the wealth their participation creates. His argument is that if we are the engines of the AI economy, we deserve a seat at the table where the value is distributed. This book is essential reading for policymakers, economists, and anyone who feels that the current digital status quo is fundamentally broken. It is a clarion call to stop treating AI extraction as a technical or ethical puzzle and to start treating it as a question of distributive justice. For those tired of watching the wealth of their daily lives be harvested without compensation, Keith provides something invaluable: a framework for seeing the hidden labor of our digital existence and a practical argument for why the next great labor fight will be about who owns the future of intelligence. Previous Next

Book review of Vineyards to Victory: A French Soldier, Yorktown, and the Making of an American Family by Ted Hart . ISBN: 9798999760746 < Back Vineyards to Victory: A French Soldier, Yorktown, and the Making of an American Family Ted Hart Archival research, genealogy, American Revolution, family legacy TEDHART.COM LLC Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A French vineyard boy who joins the artillery, fights at Yorktown, and survives the French Revolution, laying the foundation for his descendants to emigrate and establish an American family line. Ted Hart’s Vineyards to Victory arrives as a welcome contribution to the literature of the American Revolution, coinciding with the nation’s 250th anniversary. Rather than retreading the well-worn paths of Washington, Lafayette, or Rochambeau, Hart approaches the Revolutionary era from the ground up. By centering his narrative on Siméon Gaugien, a second son from Franche-Comté who traded his family’s vineyards for a spot in the Auxonne artillery, Hart delivers a rich, human-scale history that bridges microhistory, military operational analysis, and transatlantic migration. The book’s greatest structural strength lies in its balance between technical military history and village social history. Readers familiar with the Yorktown campaign know the standard narrative: the allied march south, the blockade by De Grasse, and the storming of Redoubts 9 and 10. Hart reframes these events through the mechanics of artillery labor under the Gribeauval system. Through Siméon’s eyes, war is not a series of grand patriotic tableaux, but a grueling exercise in ballistics, mathematics, heavy lifting, and discipline. Crucially, Hart dedicates significant space to the noncombat realities that defined 18th-century soldiering: the failed 1779 Channel invasion, 70-day ocean crossings, dysentery, and months of stagnant waiting in Newport. By placing logistical attrition and physical hardship at the center of the story, the book captures the authentic texture of rank-and-file life. Where the narrative distinguishes itself, however, is in its temporal scope. Most military biographies of common soldiers end when the guns fall silent. Hart avoids this trap by following Siméon back to France, demonstrating that victory abroad offered no immunity to the chaos that followed. The chapters tracing Siméon’s post-war life through the collapse of the Ancien Régime and the terror of the French Revolution are among the book's most compelling. This continuity allows Hart to show how macro-historical shifts—feudal tax burdens, agrarian crisis, political revolution, and 19th-century transatlantic migration—intersected within a single bloodline, culminating in his descendants helping to establish the settlement of Rosières-sur-Mance in northern New York. If the book has a vulnerability, it stems from the inherent challenge of reconstructing an ordinary soldier's internal life. While Hart relies on extensive archival research, from parish registers to military muster rolls, animating a quiet historical figure occasionally requires narrative reconstruction. Readers expecting strict, document-heavy academic prose may notice the book’s popular narrative flair, which does make it an easier read. Yet Hart navigates this tension skillfully, grounding his contextual details in rigorous social history so that the narrative feels authentic to the period without sacrificing factual integrity. Ultimately, Vineyards to Victory succeeds as both a vivid military chronicle and a poignant family saga. By demonstrating how French firepower, discipline, and peasant labor secured American independence, and how that service echoed across generations, Hart delivers a nuanced, deeply researched tribute to the forgotten rank-and-file who shaped the Atlantic world. Previous Next

< Back Romantasy is All the Rage October 7, 2026 at 6:15:00 AM A good beach read and an action packed story team up to build a world far more than imagined. They create a genre that defy odds and audiences. Today the Romantasy genre , a hybrid between romance and fantasy, is all the rage with readers wanting more and more of it so much so that there are now bookstores and book conventions dedicated to just this one niche area of the book world. Small but mighty these books are creating maps, guides, and fanbases that connect in real life and virtually around the globe with hundreds of trends and audios for readers to try out and put their own spin on things. According to Penguin Books “Rather than treating romance as a subplot, Romantasy places it at the centre. The emotional stakes are just as important as the external conflict.” Born largely on TikTok, Romantasy has found a new home, and it's a publishing phenomenon. It started with and then began picking up steam on the platform’s coined term for the bookwork community: BookTok. This hashtag and virtual space has had a massive pull on increasing the standing of Romantasy books. Now, from mystical lands to the pages of Africa's writers, the genre is finding fresh ground. South African authors such as Soweto-born Thandi Moagi tell Africa Live they are jumping into the genre, creating their own worlds of knights, dragons,and love stories. For her home is where the fantasy begins and her romance novels are largely set in Lesotho and South Africa, but her first venture into Romantasy brings African and Greek mythology together. While other authors like the Wisani and the Bafokeng Brothers draw on a real mountain in Lesotho, and she lets her mind run wild with the possibilities of the caves and mystical things happening in its gates. Moagi states "South Africa has so many different amazing cultures when it comes to mythologies and fables and folklore," one author notes, "so being able to introduce almost a witchy approach and pair it with the mythologies that we have in our own country." She remembers growing up with her grandmother's stories, like Digoloshi, and how essential those tales are to shaping the next generation of storytellers. And while Romantasy imports fill bookstores, readers are hungry for stories closer to home, rooted in the myths and folklore they grew up with. The genre's rise has also given birth to dedicated spaces in the tristate with bookstores built around romantasy-only shelves, from Pennsylvania such as Page Burners and Cupid’s Bookshop to New Jersey where they have Kiss&Tale , Romantasy Bookstore and, where readers can find these worlds, meet the authors,and connect with fellow fans in person, not just online. Romantasy is more than a publishing trend. It's an opportunity to take centuries of folklore beyond the page into film, television, gaming, and markets. As a new generation of writers is showing that fantasy doesn't have to follow one path to capture the world's imagination. Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Mali Ayala Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back RBmedia Acquires UK Fiction Publisher Boldwood Books to Expand Global Reach August 4, 2026 at 5:37:24 PM RBmedia, the world’s largest audiobook publisher, has acquired award-winning UK independent fiction publisher Boldwood Books , the companies announced today. Under the agreement, which closed on July 31, 2026, Boldwood will operate as an independent publishing division within RBmedia. The deal adds Boldwood’s existing catalogue of 2,000 titles, along with its annual pipeline of over 500 multi-format releases, to RBmedia's global operations. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 2019, Boldwood Books has built a strong commercial fiction footprint, selling over 50 million books worldwide across eBook, audiobook, and print formats. The publisher specializes in popular genres, including mystery, thriller, romance, women's fiction, and historical fiction. Boldwood recently earned top industry accolades, winning Independent Publisher of the Year at the 2025 British Book Awards as well as both Independent Publisher of the Year and Trade Publisher of the Year at the 2025 Independent Publishing Awards. The acquisition allows RBmedia to broaden its international and foreign-language offerings while leveraging Boldwood’s multi-format publishing strategy. "Boldwood Books brings valuable expertise in multi-format publishing and additional depth in key genres like mystery, thriller, and romance," said Michael Paull, CEO of RBmedia. "This acquisition strengthens our international and foreign language publishing and ability to serve authors while delivering more high-quality titles to our retail and library platform partners and consumers worldwide." For Boldwood, the partnership provides access to RBmedia’s massive global distribution network—which spans major platforms such as Audible, Spotify, Apple, OverDrive, and Hoopla—without sacrificing its operational autonomy. "We are excited about the potential of bringing together RBmedia’s significant resources and audiobook expertise with Boldwood’s publishing capabilities across all formats," said Amanda Ridout, CEO and Founder of Boldwood Books. "This agreement amplifies our ability to maximise author exposure in the U.S., given RBmedia’s position in the global market and vast distribution network, whilst remaining a discrete and independent business." RBmedia, which holds a catalogue of over 100,000 audiobook titles, is backed by investment firms H.I.G. Capital and Francisco Partners. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Reflecting on the Dream: Literature for Martin Luther King Jr. Day January 22, 2026 at 12:26:13 PM As we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this month, we are reminded that his "Dream" was a living mission. This year’s award-winning literature highlights the ongoing work of building what Dr. King called the "Beloved Community." Dr. King’s vision of the "Beloved Community" was the ultimate goal of his activism. He did not see the Civil Rights Movement simply as a way to change laws, but as a way to transform the soul of the nation so that "opponents could become friends." A central piece for this year's reflection is "What is My Legacy?" by Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King (a 2025 NYC Big Book Award Winner, https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/2025-winners/97819647210950 ). This title serves as a direct bridge from Dr. King’s historical impact to the responsibilities of the present generation. It challenges readers to move beyond admiration and toward actionable service. For those seeking a more lyrical approach to history, "Raising King" by Joseph Ross offers a "poetic biography" that captures the rhythmic soul of the Civil Rights Movement. Additionally, for the younger generation, "Zion Learns to See" (a 2025 Independent Press Award Winner , https://www.independentpressaward.com/2025winners/9781514006696 ) echoes Dr. King’s teachings on radical empathy, showing children how to see the dignity in every individual, regardless of their circumstances. On this MLK Day, these books remind us that the struggle for justice is a narrative that we are all still writing. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

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< Back Printed Word Reviews Draws Crowds at 2026 ALA Conference with Award-winning Author Signings June 28, 2026 at 8:18:15 AM Yesterday, the exhibition floor of the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference buzzed with literary excitement as Printed Word Reviews hosted a spectacular, back-to-back lineup of exclusive book signings. Held at Booth 4722, the highly anticipated event brought together hundreds of librarians, educators, and book lovers eager to meet some of today’s most compelling literary voices. Hosted by Printed Word Reviews publisher Ted Olczak, the marathon event featured eight award-winning and celebrated authors whose works span a vast and diverse array of genres. Attendees queued up early in the morning, creating a vibrant atmosphere that lasted well into the afternoon as readers collected signed copies and chatted directly with the creators behind their favorite books. The day’s prestigious lineup began at 10:00 AM with award-winning author Janet Skrzypek , who kicked off the morning with high energy and deep engagement with early-rising conference-goers. Her captivating bilingual books entertain young readers, teach animal conservation, and build English and Spanish literacy skills. She was followed closely at 10:30 AM by the multi-talented Jessica Nicole McAnelly , whose “Birdie’s Picnic Party: A Tasty Take on Food Safety,” drew an enthusiastic crowd of admirers. Birdie’s engaging adventures teach children lifelong lessons about nutrition, friendship, and everyday kindness. As the morning progressed, the momentum only grew. At 11:00 AM, acclaimed author Kathleen Welton joined in. Welton’s award-winning Be WHOO You Are , illustrated by Nuno Alexandre Vieira, follows Ollie the owl’s uplifting journey of self-discovery, kindness, and individuality. At 11:30 AM, author Nancy W. captured the mid-morning crowd, running out of books within minutes. Nancy then passed out branded teeshirts with her book Dear G-d, a raw spiritual memoir charting a vulnerable roadmap from addiction and despair to transformation. The momentum carried right through the noon hour. Lights, camera, action and award-winning author Victoria Basil drew a massive lunch-hour crowd. Her Star People’s Wisdom is a channeled guide that blends cosmic messages from advanced star beings with personal healing tools to help spiritual seekers activate their inner potential and navigate humanity's energetic evolution. At 12:30 PM, distinguished author Jim Reiman took over the booth, signing books and engaging librarians in profound discussions about where his work belongs in a library collection. Reiman’s Redefining Negotiation is a practical, psychology-driven guide that teaches professionals how to move past adversarial tactics and build long-term value by focusing on collaboration, active listening, and relationship management. Next was award-winning author Debra Sawdy , known for crafting Finn’s Adventures , whose inspiring storytelling left a lasting impression on librarians who stopped by. Her heartwarming debut book series with themes of curiosity, courage, and a deep connection to nature, resonated and meant to inspire young readers. Lastly, sci-fi and literary fiction author Wil Leslie, best known for Time Plan , a fast-paced time-travel thriller blending history, romance, and conspiracy had librarians clamoring for more. "We are incredibly proud to showcase these exceptionally talented, award-winning authors at this year's ALA Annual Conference," Ted Olczak, publisher of Printed Word Reviews , reflected after the successful event. "Each author brings a unique voice and powerful storytelling to the literary community, and it was a true privilege to connect them with the librarians and educators who champion great books every day." For those who missed the live signings or want to explore more about yesterday's featured writers, Printed Word Reviews continues to provide comprehensive resources, author interviews, and literary guides. See more on our instragram page: https://www.instagram.com/independentpressaward/ and to learn more about the magazine's ongoing mission to highlight exceptional independent and traditionally published books, visit the official website at www.printedwordreviews.com . Book displays at the PWR booth will continue throughout the remainder of the show. One prominently showcased title at the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference, booth #4722, is Singaporean author and stroke survivor Terence Ang’s launch of Brokenness Becomes Beautiful. A groundbreaking poetry audiobook featuring a digital clone of his pre-aphasia voice created through advanced AI technology. This historic, world-first achievement in inclusive storytelling is making waves. The book display features a powerful lineup of standout books, spanning motivational memoirs like Jenn Todling’s Dancing on My Own Two Feet and Sarah Barry’s 9 Habits of Happy Retirees , to essential entrepreneurial guides like John Abrams' From Founder to Future . Fiction lovers and librarians looking to expand their collections will also find captivating fantasy, short stories, and thrillers, including Paul Kluge’s compelling Vietnam Re-Visits series, Weeds of War: Those Who Bled at Dien Bien Phu and The Tilted Palace: Weeds of Misfortune and Roselyn Teukolsky’s gripping thrillers, THE FOURTH WOMAN and A Reluctant Spy . Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Independent Press Award Names North Star Publications as Exclusive Nordic Partner July 25, 2026 at 8:04:13 AM The Independent Press Award (IPA) has announced an exclusive territory partnership with North Star Publications & Rights (North Star PR), the international publishing arm of Sweden-based Mindboozt . Led by NLP Master Trainer and author Camilla Gyllensvan, North Star PR will serve as the sole curator representing the Nordic region for the Independent Press Award Selection program. Through this alliance, North Star PR will establish a curated pipeline of exceptional Nordic literary talent, introducing top-tier regional authors to both the Independent Press Award and the NYC Big Book Award . "By partnering exclusively with North Star Publications & Rights, we are aligning with an agency that deeply understands both mindset and authority-building for authors," said Ted Olczak, publisher of Printed Word Reviews. "Together, we are bridging the gap between the rich literary landscape of the Nordic States and the global publishing market." Through this exclusive alliance, North Star PR will establish a curated, partner-driven pipeline of Nordic literary talent, introducing internationally worthy titles to the Independent Press Award. This structured selection program allows IPA to discover additional top-tier global voices, while offering North Star PR an elite, recurring channel to elevate its regional author network. For Nordic non-fiction authors, coaches, and business leaders, this provides a credible, direct pathway to major international visibility and prestigious U.S. recognition. "This alliance is a game-changer for Nordic experts and entrepreneurs who write," said Camilla Gyllensvan, founder of Mindboozt AB. "We have always focused on helping professionals write about their expertise to boost their businesses. Now, we can hand them a direct, elite passport to international acclaim." The Independent Press Award and NYC Big Book Award includes The GAB TALKS Interview Series. Hosted by IPA President Gabby Olczak, this podcast features recognized authors and award winners. Episodes are distributed across major streaming channels and social media, giving authors a direct medium to discuss their writing craft, inspiration, and book themes. Winners and honorees frequently receive exposure through Printed Word Reviews, an industry-facing digital publication distributed to authors, publishers, and book lovers. Special seasonal issues (such as Summer Reads, Discover Indie Books, and the Holiday Gift Guide) regularly feature recognized titles. Showcasing titles in New York City Times Square to a full fledge red carpet Gala, the Independent Press Award provides a multi-channel publicity hub designed to help independent publishers and authors gain exposure, build credibility, and reach wider audiences. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest