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< Back Davida Breier Appointed to Association of University Presses Board of Directors June 18, 2026 at 10:08:13 AM Hopkins Press celebrates the veteran publishing executive’s new leadership role in the scholarly publishing community. Hopkins Press has announced the appointment of Davida Breier to the Association of University Presses (AUPresses) Board of Directors. Breier, a seasoned publishing professional with more than three decades of industry experience, currently serves as the Co-Director of Sales and Marketing for the Books Division at Hopkins Press and the Director of Hopkins Fulfillment Services (HFS). Her appointment to the board as Director-at-Large recognizes her extensive expertise and long-standing dedication to advancing the reach of scholarly publishing, and is timely as AUPresses starts their annual meeting today in Washington, DC. Breier’s career spans over 30 years, during which she has become a deeply respected figure across various sectors of the book industry. Long before her tenure at Hopkins Press, she was highly active in independent and trade publishing. Her previous leadership experience includes serving on the board of the Independent Book Publishers Association. In addition to her executive achievements, Breier is a published author. Her debut novel, Sinkhole , was published by The University of New Orleans Press, giving her a well-rounded perspective on the industry as both a publisher and a creator. At Hopkins Press, Breier manages critical sales, distribution, and fulfillment initiatives. Under her leadership, HFS and the Books Division have expanded their global footprint, successfully connecting scholarly works with reader and industry audiences. Through these efforts, Breier has established herself as a leading voice for the dissemination of academic research and literature. In a statement sharing the news , Hopkins Press expressed immense pride in Breier's new appointment, noting that the board position reflects both her professional acumen and her dedication to the university press ecosystem. "Her appointment to the AUPresses Board of Directors reflects both her professional expertise and her commitment to the collaborative mission of university presses," the press shared, offering congratulations to Breier on her well-deserved new role. As a member of the AUPresses Board, Breier will help guide the association’s mission to support the work of global scholarly publishers and advocate for the vital role that university presses play in education and culture. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Killer Friends by Chris Karlsen . ISBN: 979-8272683571 < Back Killer Friends Chris Karlsen Historical Fiction, Mystery/Crime, Literary, investigation Independently published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In 1892 London, detectives Ruddy and Archie unravel a web of deceit and betrayal as they investigate the mysterious disappearance of businessman Phillip Newell, leading them to confront a ruthless killer with a personal vendetta. In “Killer Friends,” Chris Karlsen transports readers to the soot-stained streets of 1892 London, delivering a historical mystery that balances meticulous period detail with the grit of a modern thriller. Part of the Bloodstone series, this fourth installment proves that even in the Victorian era, some of the deadliest threats come from those we once trusted. The novel thrives on its Victorian atmosphere. Karlsen immerses the reader in a world of gaslight, fog, and rigid social hierarchies. As a historical mystery, the book leans heavily into its setting, using the period’s investigative limitations to heighten suspense. It is a perfect match for fans of Anne Perry or C.S. Harris who appreciate a detective story where the backdrop feels like a living character. The narrative kicks off with an unsettling discovery: the disappearance of Phillip Newell and the shooting of his loyal dog, Snowball. This immediate act of cruelty sets a dark tone for the investigation led by Detectives Ruddy and Archie. What starts as a missing persons case quickly evolves into a calculated murder investigation. The antagonist, Eric Lawry, is driven by a toxic mix of resentment and business-related grievances. The early reveal of the culprit, Eric and his accomplice Leo, shifts the book from a “whydunnit” to a high-stakes “how-will-they-catch-him” pursuit. The strength of “Killer Friends” lies in its procedural elements. Ruddy and Archie are methodical, navigating a web of deceit that spans from high-society business dealings to the shadowy corners of the Chameleon Club. The introduction of Honoria Underhill, a former Pinkerton agent, adds a fresh layer to the team. Her presence hints at the changing social tides of the era and provides a compelling foil to the established detectives. In addition, the investigation turns personal and perilous when a decoy operation results in the death of an officer. This tragedy serves as a turning point, stripping away the “adventure” of the chase and replacing it with a grim, urgent need for justice. The story culminates in a visceral confrontation at a bank. In true Victorian thriller fashion, the resolution isn't found in a quiet parlor room, but through a dramatic shootout. While the detectives eventually bring the perpetrators to justice, the victory is hard-earned and bittersweet. The ending provides a much-needed breath of air, as a recovering Ruddy looks toward a future with Honeysuckle, grounding the high-octane plot with human emotion. “Killer Friends” is a standout historical mystery that excels in character development. By including a historical note on Ruddy’s military service, Karlsen adds a layer of authenticity that makes the protagonist feel anchored in real history. If you're looking for a mystery that combines the procedural rigor of the “Pinkertons” with the atmospheric tension of “Victorian London,” “Killer Friends” is a must-read. It’s a story of perseverance that reminds us that while friends can be “killers,” justice has a very long memory. Previous Next

Book review of Catching Memories by Peggy Lotz . ISBN: < Back Take me back to https://www.childrensbookwormaward.com/ Catching Memories Peggy Lotz Childrens: family beach adventure Self-published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Three siblings embark on magical beach adventures that teach them the importance of kindness and the impact of small moments, culminating in a heartwarming lesson about making a difference in the world. Peggy Lotz's Catching Memories is a touching memoir that beautifully encapsulates the magic of childhood and the lasting significance of life's seemingly small moments. Written in an accessible and engaging style, this book sweeps readers away to the serene beaches of Arch Cape, Oregon, the backdrop for the author's formative years alongside her siblings. Through rich descriptions and heartfelt personal stories, Lotz masterfully illustrates the profound beauty of the natural world, the deep joy of family connections, and the enduring power of kindness. The memoir opens with a delightful immersion into the author's childhood beach trips, where each visit was an adventure brimming with excitement and discovery. Lotz then introduces us to the unique personalities of her siblings, each engaging with the beach environment in their own distinctive way. A particularly memorable moment unfolds as Lotz recounts a day when her father caught a fish that unexpectedly gave birth—an event that left an indelible mark on her young mind. This powerful experience serves as a poignant metaphor for the impact of small acts of kindness and their ripple effect on the world around us. Catching Memories champions the idea that the small moments in life, often unplanned and unassuming, can profoundly shape our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. The book masterfully blends nostalgia with timeless lessons, standing out for its ability to evoke a longing for simpler times while imparting enduring truths about the importance of family, nature, and compassion. This book is ideal for anyone who appreciates memoirs that celebrate the beauty found in everyday life and the transformative power of small acts of kindness. Previous Next

< Back Bestselling Author John Green Announces 20-City North American Tour for Adult Fiction Debut, 'Hollywood, Ending' July 16, 2026 at 11:54:53 AM #1 internationally bestselling author John Green is hitting the road this fall for a massive 20-city North American tour to celebrate his highly anticipated new book, HOLLYWOOD, ENDING , published by Dutton Books. Set to hit shelves on September 22, 2026, HOLLYWOOD, ENDING marks a major milestone for Green: it is his adult fiction debut and his first novel in nearly a decade. The tour will bring the beloved author to major cities across the United States and Canada, including Toronto, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Green’s hometown of Indianapolis. At each tour stop, Green will share the stage with a special guest (to be announced at a later date) for an evening of conversation about the book, audience Q&As, and more. HOLLYWOOD, ENDING follows two rising actors, Kai Laramie and Juniper Castillo, who find themselves thrust into the spotlight after being cast in a highly anticipated biopic about iconic artist Andy Warhol. As the production brings them fame, intense public scrutiny, and a deep connection with one another. Described as tender, heartbreaking, and funny, the novel explores the delicate balance between public exposure and private intimacy, and the bravery required to pursue genuine love. Fans can catch John Green in the following tour cities: East Coast & Northeast: New York, NY; Washington, D.C.; Pittsburgh, PA; Portland, ME South & Southeast: Birmingham, AL; Winston-Salem, NC; Gainesville, FL; Nashville, TN Midwest: Indianapolis, IN; Chicago, IL; Madison, WI; Minneapolis, MN; Kansas City, MO Southwest & Plains: Tulsa, OK; Tucson, AZ; Salt Lake City, UT West Coast & Northwest: Boise, ID; San Diego, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Toronto, CAN More information regarding tour dates, venues, and ticket sales will be released in the coming weeks. Fans can check for updates and find more details at johngreenbooks.com . With more than 60 million books in print worldwide, John Green is the acclaimed author of generation-defining novels like The Fault in Our Stars , Looking for Alaska , and Turtles All the Way Down . He has also found massive success in adult non-fiction with The Anthropocene Reviewed and Everything is Tuberculosis . Alongside his brother, Hank Green, he is the co-creator of popular online video projects like the Vlogbrothers and the educational powerhouse Crash Course . Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Learn more about Eric Goebelbecker < Back Eric Goebelbecker When Mars Attacked, and the World Fought Back: Inside Eric Goebelbecker's "The Great War of the Worlds" H.G. Wells’ The War of the Worlds etched an indelible image into the global consciousness: towering Martian tripods laying waste to Victorian England, only to be vanquished by the humblest of Earth's inhabitants – bacteria. But what if the story didn't end there? What if humanity, scarred but unbowed, salvaged the alien technology and incorporated it into its own brutal conflicts? This is the chilling premise that Eric Goebelbecker explores in his "The Great War of the Worlds" series, a compelling alternate history that transforms the horrors of World War I into an even more terrifying, technologically twisted global conflict. Goebelbecker’s series is a "what if" scenario that reimagines the early 20th century through the lens of a successful, though ultimately repelled, Martian invasion. The year is 1914, and the storm clouds of war are gathering over Europe, just as they did in our history. However, this isn't the Great War we know. The trenches are deeper, the stakes higher, and the weapons… unfathomably more destructive. Humanity, having harvested and clumsily reverse-engineered Martian technology, now wields its own versions of heat rays, black dust, and even formidable land-ironclads that evoke the dread silhouette of the original tripods. The trauma of the invasion hasn't united mankind in a peaceful utopia; instead, it has intensified national rivalries and accelerated a terrifying arms race, pushing the world to the brink of an unprecedented, apocalyptic conflict. While the narrative scope is vast, Goebelbecker grounds his storytelling in visceral, often brutal detail, focusing on the human experience amidst the chaos. Goebelbecker builds upon Wells with reverence. The Martians remain genuinely alien and terrifying, their original invasion serving as a catalytic event rather than a mere plot device. The lingering fear of their return is a constant, palpable threat. Moreover, this isn't whimsical steampunk. This is "Tripod-punk" or "Dieselpunk" at its finest – a world drenched in the grime, blood, and industrial horror of World War I, intensified by the alien weapons. The technology feels clunky, dangerous, and imperfect, reflecting humanity's desperate struggle to comprehend and control what it has found. Despite facing an external alien threat, Goebelbecker's most poignant observation might be that humanity’s capacity for self-destruction remains undimmed. The series powerfully explores how even the most profound shared trauma can fail to overcome deeply ingrained political and nationalistic divisions. "The Great War of the Worlds" is a thought experiment in the darkest corners of human ingenuity and conflict. It asks us to consider the terrifying implications of advanced technology in morally compromised hands and the endless capacity for war, even when faced with a common enemy from the stars. For fans of alternate history, military science fiction, and those who ever wondered what would truly happen if Mars attacked, Eric Goebelbecker's series offers a brutal, captivating, and utterly unforgettable journey into a world forever changed by the ultimate invasion. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Government Launches $2 Million Fund to Boost Australian Independent Publishing and Support Local Writers July 14, 2026 at 9:43:52 PM In a major boost to the nation’s literary landscape, Writing Australia has officially opened applications for the Australian Publishing and Promotion Fund 2026–27. Established under the Australian Government’s landmark National Cultural Policy, Revive , the initiative will inject $2 million into the local independent publishing sector to foster a more viable, innovative, and competitive domestic market. Eligible Australian independent publishers can apply for co-investment grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 to support their operations, administration, and promotional activities. In a move designed to directly support creators, Writing Australia has announced that successful applicants will receive an additional 10% financial top-up on top of their base grant. This bonus funding must be passed directly to authors and illustrators as non-recoupable payments. According to Writing Australia, these bonus payments acknowledge the significant editorial and personal costs incurred by creators during the publication process. The top-ups are slated to prioritize First Nations authors, creators from underrepresented communities, writers of niche or high-cultural-value titles with limited commercial potential, and those working on collaborative or long-term projects like children's picture books. To ensure the fund supports genuine human creativity and local business viability, Creative Australia has set strict eligibility criteria. Applicants must be majority Australian-owned, have operated in the country for at least three financial years, and primarily publish physical trade books. Furthermore, the guidelines explicitly target emerging technologies: books wholly or substantially created by generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are ineligible for funding. Publishers must transparently disclose any instances where AI was used to assist in the creation or publication of a work. The fund is open exclusively to trade publishers of fiction, poetry, and non-fiction who have a proven history of paying standard advances and royalties to creators. Educational, spiritual, self-help, and purely electronic/e-book publishers are among those excluded from applying. Publishers must register in Creative Australia’s application management system at least two business days prior to the closing deadline. Applications will be assessed by a panel of industry peers based on the viability, impact, and strategic alignment of the proposed publishing programs. Supported activity must start between 1 July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027. For full guidelines and eligibility details, visit the official Creative Australia Portal . Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Missing, A Modern Art Masterpiece in a French Medieval Village by Roberta Samuels . ISBN: < Back Missing, A Modern Art Masterpiece in a French Medieval Village Roberta Samuels Mystery / Detective Red Penguin Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a tale that intertwines the lives of an avant-garde artist fleeing the Nazis in 1944 and an American woman renovating a historic townhouse in modern France, both women find inspiration and resilience through art and community amidst the challenges of their respective eras. A compelling dual narrative, interweaves the struggles and triumphs of two women separated by time but connected by art and the enduring spirit of resilience. Set against the contrasting backdrops of wartime France and modern-day Montpezat de Quercy, the novel explores the power of creativity to transcend even the most challenging circumstances. The narrative alternates between Sonia Delaunay's experiences in 1944 and Barbara Waldheim's life in 2014. Sonia's story, fraught with the dangers of Nazi occupation and the loss of her husband, captures the tension and fear of wartime France. The author portrays the camaraderie among the artists hiding at the chateau in Grisolles, showcasing their determination to continue creating amidst the chaos. Sonia's artistic spirit, even in the face of unimaginable hardship, resonates. In the contemporary timeline, Barbara, an American expatriate, seeks her own fresh start in France. Her journey of renovating a 15th-century townhouse and integrating into the local community provides a counterpoint to Sonia's wartime struggles. While Barbara's challenges are different, they are no less significant. The author effectively portrays her growing connection to the village, her friendships with Laure and Pierre-Paul, and the deepening of her relationship with Sam. The discovery of the hidden basement and the missing Sonia Delaunay stained-glass window acts as a catalyst, bridging the two narratives and propelling the plot forward. The quest to authenticate and restore the window becomes a central focus, drawing Barbara and Sam into a fascinating historical mystery. The involvement of local authorities and the Ministry of Culture adds intrigue to the story. The conclusion, with the installation of the restored window in the village church and Barbara and Sam's recognition with the Légion d'honneur, provides a satisfying sense of closure. It's a testament to the enduring power of art and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The novel ends on a note of hope, suggesting that even in the face of adversity, creativity and community can flourish. "Missing, A Modern Art Masterpiece in a French Medieval Village" is for those readers who appreciate historical fiction with a strong connection to art and culture. It's a story that celebrates resilience, the power of human connection, and the enduring legacy of artistic expression. Previous Next

Authors Signings & Articles Read More From Public Health to Picture Books: The Heart Behind “Birdie’s Picnic Party” Read More The Masterclass Mindset: How Jim Reiman Is Redefining Negotiation Read More Increasing Global Awareness through Language Education: Janet Skrzypek ***ALA Author signing*** Read More From Despair to Distinction Nancy W Wins 2026 Independent Press Award Read More World-First Singaporean Author Terence Ang, a Stroke Survivor with Aphasia, Clones Voice for Poetic Audiobook. Read More The Grappler’s Grace: Dr. Tom Latham’s Journey from the Mat to the Manuscript Read More Jeremy Clift's "Born in Space: Unlocking Destiny" Wins Independent Press Award, Charting a Bold Sci-Fi Future Read More From Advocacy to Authorship: Amplifying Unheard Voices Through Storytelling Read More Neal Rabin's "FLAT" Wins Independent Press Award for Humor: A Journey of Accidental Discovery Read More "Death of a Blue Jay" Recognized by Independent Press Award: A Journey Forged in Faith and Discovery Read More The Inner Alchemist: How Natasha Sumner’s Award-Winning Book is Redefining Spirituality Read More A Decade in Color: Lee Woodman’s Latest Triumph Read More "The Dancing Darlings" Honored at Independent Press Awards: A Psychologist's Journey to Children's Literature Read More "Lynched" Earns Double Honors at Independent Press Awards, Unearthing Dark Chapter of Northern Plains History Read More A Dream-Born Epic: Author's Journey to "First Novel" and Historical Fantasy Read More Bridging the Gap: "Hiring Veterans" and the Untapped Potential of Military Talent Read More Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing Read More Xue Mo Illuminating the Darkness: A Conversation with Ted Olczak Read More Grace Hodges author signing at ALA, Table 1652, on Saturday, June 28th, at 11am Read More Kimberly Adams author signing at ALA, Table 1652, on Saturday, June 28th, at 10am Read More Michele Kwasniewski author signing at ALA, Table 1652, on Friday, June 27th, at 6pm Read More UP CLOSE and PERSONAL with Dr. D.W. Knight Read More Finding Love in the Margins: One Author's Journey to Redefine Romance Read More Gary E Smith Read More Aurita Maldonado author signing at ALA Read More Carl Baker & Bernadette Wells authors signing Read More Susan Wands author signing at ALA Read More Danielle Billetz-Reppert author signing at ALA Read More Transforming Darkness into Light: The Healing Art of Storytelling with Debra Sawdy ***ALA Author signing*** Read More From Publisher to Storyteller: Kathleen Welton’s Lifelong Love Affair with the Written Word Read More Victoria Basil on Star People’s Wisdom and the Frontiers of Consciousness ***ALA Author signing*** Read More From Plot Twists to Queen Code: Laura Muirhead's Journey of Sovereign Leadership Read More The Art of the Sabbatical: How John Abrams Rewrote the Rules of Business and Authorship Read More The Heart in the Hallways: Balancing Compassion and Reality in School Counseling Read More GAB TALKS interview with Dr. Susan Agbenoto Read More Christy Cashman: From Loss to Light: The Resilient Journey of “The Truth About Horses” Read More GAB TALKS with J. Chester Johnson Read More Weaving New Magic: Michaela Riley’s Evolution into an Award-Winning Dark Fantasy Author Read More When Mars Attacked, and the World Fought Back: Inside Eric Goebelbecker's "The Great War of the Worlds" Read More A Journey of Faith and Suspense: The Rise of H.L. Howard Read More "Unrivaled: Sewanee 1899" Wins Independent Press Award, Celebrating a Legendary Sports Feat Read More "Here With You": A Tender Guide Through Children's Grief, Awarded NYC Big Book Honor Read More From Roller Hockey Rinks to Storytelling: A Writer's Unexpected Journey Read More Penny Lane's "Redeemed" Wins Independent Press Award, Offering Hope Through Raw Honesty Read More London Book Fair 2025: A Global Hub for the Future of Storytelling Read More From Canvas to Climate: How a Worried Artist Accidentally Became an Award-Winning Author Read More Susan Agbenoto author signing at ALA, Table 1652, on Saturday, June 28th, at 10:30am Read More Shane Svorec author signing at ALA, Table 1652, on Saturday, June 28th, at 9:30am Read More Seeing Through Her Eyes: A Conversation on The Female Gaze In Art & Photography with Australian author, Anita Selzer Read More From PTO Meeting to Page-Turner: How a Mom's Job Sparked a Movement Read More Travis Easter Read More Tim Turner and Moisey Gorbaty, authors of “The Reluctant Conductor” Read More Kathryn Troutman author signing at ALA Read More Loretta Goldberg author signing at ALA Read More Jessica Bantom author signing at ALA

< Back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Share this page: PWR eNewsletter Printed Word March 18, 2026 BookCAMP magazine, https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookcampmagazine March 2026 - Publisher edition - Share URL with a friend ======================================== IN THIS ISSUE BISG Accessibility Readiness and Workflow Pain Points Surveys PWR ChangeMakers Nominations BookCAMP 2026 Indie Author with 30,000 copies sold joins PWR Featured book review by Printed Word Reviews Interviews Coming Soon ========================== BISG is calling publishers, vendors and distributors to complete their surveys on Accessibility Readiness and Workflow Pain Points. TWO days left to join 140 others; Find the surveys here: https://www.bisg.org/news/bisg-launches-book-industry-surveys-on-accessibility-readiness-and-workflow-pain-points ========================== ChangeMakers: Do you know someone or yourself who is making an impact? At Printed Word Reviews, we want to honor the innovators, advocates, and trailblazers who are transforming the publishing landscape for the better. https://www.printedwordreviews.com/changemakers ========================== BookCAMP 2026 happens in five weeks, https://www.ipabookcamp.com/tickets with some tickets still available. Join other publishers, distributors and marketing professionals networking and teaching independent authors and publishers on April 24-25, 2026. A book fair open to the public, benefiting the Newark Public Library is set for April 26th, https://www.ipabookcamp.com/book-fair ========================== With over 30,000 copies sold, Christy Cashman, a 2024 NYC Big Book Award and Independent Press Award winner, signed at the Printed Word Reviews booth during AWP on March 7th. https://www.einpresswire.com/article/896118197/printed-word-reviews-to-host-award-winning-authors-at-awp-baltimore ========================== Featured Printed Word Review FALCON book review: Sleeper Code: A Novel by Kevin McGuire In a high-stakes battle against a rogue AI embedded in critical infrastructure, a seasoned cybersecurity officer and his team race against time to prevent a catastrophic cyber-attack that could plunge the nation into chaos. https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/sleeper-code%3A-a-novel ========================== Gab Talks Interviews GAB TALKS with Ivona Olofsson, author of The Soul of War: Ukraine – Where Every Step Tells Their Story. https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/ivona-olofsson ========================== Printed Word Reviews Interviews Ted Olczak, Publisher of Printed Word Reviews, at ALA with Kris Bigalk of Trio House Press. https://youtu.be/5rEM7h7N9UE ========================== More seats added to the NYC Big Book and Independent Press Awards ceremony and dinner, get your ticket now: https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/awardsdinner Thank you to BookCAMP SPONSORS: BookBaby; Book Launchers; Gatekeeper Press; Creatorwood; BookMarketing Buzz; Small Business Digest; Moving Forward Small Business (MFSB); Book Industry Study Group (BISG); Book Manufacturing Institute; Atmosphere Press; Shimmer AI; Indie Author Book Services; Pro Audio Voices; and Catalyst Press. ========================== COMING SOON BookCAMP Book Fair April 26th (fundraiser), author tables starting at $150, https://www.ipabookcamp.com/vendorapplication NYC Big Book Award is now accepting book entries: https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/ Are you listed in our Publishing Services Directory? https://www.printedwordreviews.com/publishingservices ========================== (c) 2026 Ted Olczak. Please forward and share this newsletter in its entirety. Connect at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-olczak-64a1386/ Previous Next

Book review of The Sure Thing: A Pleasure Practice to Revive the Spark by Elana Auerbach . ISBN: 979-8998787072 < Back The Sure Thing: A Pleasure Practice to Revive the Spark Elana Auerbach Self-help, wellness, health, intimacy, pleasure, connection Flower of Life Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest One woman's guide to reigniting desire and intimacy within her marriage, her capacity for joy and activism, by creating a customizable weekly “Sure Thing” pleasure ritual that deepens intimacy, embodiment, and connection. In a world where ”spontaneity” is often treated as the gold standard for a healthy sex life, Elana Auerbach’s “The Sure Thing” arrives like a bucket of reality. It’s a book that asks a radical question: What if the secret to a great sex life isn't magic, but a schedule? Auerbach wastes no time dismantling the myth that desire should always be an effortless lightning strike. Drawing from her own twelve-year ‘intimacy desert,’ she argues that “The Sure Thing” method, a weekly, non-negotiable ritual of connection, is the only way to safeguard pleasure against the grind of career, kids, and modern burnout. The book’s strongest asset is Auerbach herself. Her background is a cocktail of wall-street finance and West Coast somatic healing, and she writes with a voice that is both honest and deeply empathetic. She helps one navigate the shame many feel when their “spark” has faded, treating it not as a failure, but as a standard biological response to stress. Unlike many self-help books that stay in the realm of theory, “The Sure Thing” is a “playbook.” The “Love Ripples” exercises at the end of each chapter turn lofty concepts into Tuesday-night realities. Importantly, the book doesn't leave single people behind. Auerbach emphasizes that pleasure is a personal responsibility, and her “Solo Sure” sections are some of the most empowering parts of the text. Auerbach’s writing is punchy and occasionally irreverent, preventing the “somatic” and “mindfulness” talk from feeling too “out there” for the casual reader. She uses clear, vivid metaphors to describe the body's response to intimacy, making complex psychological concepts accessible. If there is a hurdle to this book, it’s the required commitment. Auerbach is clear: this isn't a “quick fix” or a “hack.” She asks for a fundamental shift in how you prioritize time. For couples deeply entrenched in conflict or severe avoidance, the initial leap into “The Sure Thing” ritual might feel daunting. “The Sure Thing” is for anyone who feels like their intimate life has become a “should” instead of a “want.” It’s an invitation to stop waiting for the mood to strike and start building the fire yourself. Previous Next

Book review of Bellosio: An Age of Miracles by John F Shekleton . ISBN: < Back Bellosio: An Age of Miracles John F Shekleton Sci-fi, Fantasy Mo Keijuk Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a world where three intelligent primate species vie for power, a young princess must navigate treachery and alliances to reclaim her throne and save her empire from impending war. John F. Shekleton’s "Bellosio: An Age of Miracles" is an epic fantasy that dives the reader in a world where destiny and divinity collide. Set on the planet Bellosio, the world-building story begins by introducing the creator "Cog" and the three intelligent primate species it has nurtured. This foundation sets the stage for a period of political turmoil, intellectual doubt, and looming threats that challenge the very fabric of their society. The narrative intertwines the journeys of several key characters. At the center is Princess Danaba, whose life is upended by an assassination attempt and a father paralyzed by grief. Forced to confront her destiny, she transforms from an uncertain heir into a fierce warrior princess. Her struggles are mirrored by Undiro, a mystical abbot who must navigate the political chaos of the capital while grappling with the potential "Great Withdrawal" of the Cog's power. The rising action is a complex dance of alliances and betrayals, as characters like the scheming Count Selwin and the enigmatic Bordor, a youth with special abilities, work to shape the empire's future. The book’s climax is a series of strategic maneuvers and intense battles that culminate in a dramatic confrontation. Danaba proves her worth on the battlefield, leading an assault to reclaim her home, while Bordor rises to a position of power, poised to lead his faction into a new era. The resolution finds Danaba, now empress, facing the daunting task of rebuilding the empire and forging new alliances. The story concludes with a sense of hope, as the characters embrace their destinies and look toward a new, unified future. Overall, "Bellosio: An Age of Miracles" is a blend of political intrigue, mystical elements, and character development. For the patient reader, this high fantasy novel is a rewarding read for those who appreciate more complex themes. Previous Next

< Back New Political Thriller "Are You a Patriot?" Reimagines the American Hero July 5, 2026 at 11:03:39 AM With the United States celebrating its semiquincentennial (250th anniversary), a provocative new novel is stepping into the cultural spotlight to challenge the very definition of American patriotism. Are You a Patriot? , a high-stakes political thriller co-authored by award-winning entrepreneur Donald Thompson and acclaimed cultural historian Bob Batchelor is scheduled for release on September 15, 2026. The novel marks the debut of the Xander Hale series. Along with the announcement, the publishers have officially unveiled the book's cover, designed by eminent artist Brad Norr. At the center of the novel is Xander Hale, a self-made Black corporate titan who built an empire uncovering the truths that powerful institutions preferred to keep buried. Living in an America that has historically marginalized him, Xander's world is upended when the nation crosses a dangerous, irreversible line. Suddenly, the man who spent his life navigating a biased system is drafted to defend it. The stakes could not be higher: if Xander refuses to help, the country burns; if he agrees, it will cost him the person he loves most. The core question driving the narrative is as timely as it is heavy: Would you risk everything to save a country that never loved you back? "Xander Hale is the hero I kept looking for, but never found: a Black corporate titan asked to defend a system built to break him. This is more than a plot device. Millions of Americans are living it." — Donald Thompson, Co-Author Are You a Patriot? is being positioned as a rare breed of thriller: one that marries the propulsive, adrenaline-fueled pacing of authors like Lee Child, Mark Greaney, and David Baldacci with the profound moral weight and social commentary of Walter Mosley and S.A. Cosby. The novel represents a unique collaboration between two distinct, highly accomplished voices: Donald Thompson: An EY Entrepreneur of the Year honoree, multi-exit CEO, investor, and author of the acclaimed leadership memoir Underestimated: A CEO’s Unlikely Path to Success , an Independent Press Award (IPA) Distinguished Favorite. Thompson infuses the character of Xander Hale with authentic corporate-titan DNA. And, Bob Batchelor: A cultural historian, Coastal Carolina University professor, and author of more than 35 books (including Stan Lee: A Life and The Bourbon King , an Independent Press Award (IPA) winner). Batchelor lends the story its deep historical framework and dramatic gravitas. "Our novel revolves around a central question that we all face: would you risk all you have to save the nation?" Batchelor noted, adding that fans of political thrillers will find a "fellow-traveler" in Xander Hale as he heads on an action-packed collision course with history. The release is a landmark moment for Market First Publishing (MFP), serving as the flagship launch for the company’s new fiction imprint. Josh Schwartz, CEO of Market First Publishing, expressed high expectations for the title's release: "Donald and Bob have delivered a provocative novel: a political thriller that matches high-octane pacing with genuine cultural substance. This is the benchmark for the kind of fiction MFP will publish." Though the book won't hit shelves until September, a passionate community is already rallying behind it. The Are You a Patriot? Facebook Group has already amassed more than 21,000 members, signaling massive grassroots anticipation for the thriller. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest