Luminiferos: The Omen of Light

Luminiferos: The Omen of Light by Yana Metro
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A seamless fusion of magic, romance, and philosophy...

"Luminiferos: The Omen of Light" by Yana Metro is an extraordinary blend of fantasy, romance, and philosophy that takes readers on a captivating journey through parallel worlds in search of purpose and truth.

At the tender age of eighteen, Lilly White has already experienced a multitude of lives. Growing up in an English orphanage, she faced the harsh realities of isolation and being unwanted. However, amidst the desolation, Lilly's mind was filled with vivid visions and dreams—a tantalizing glimpse of lush forests, mystical creatures, and a loving family. Uncertain about the nature of these visions, Lilly questions whether they are mere figments of her lonely mind or something more profound.

Everything changes when a mysterious man accompanied by a raven unveils a portal to a long-lost realm, providing irrefutable proof that Lilly's visions are not illusions. Stepping into this impossible world, she is greeted by ethereal beauty, but a lurking darkness threatens to engulf everything in its path. As Lilly grapples with the desire to reunite with her family and confront the impending evil that endangers existence itself, she discovers dormant gifts within her that she never could have fathomed. Thus begins her transformative journey of self-discovery, transcendence, and love.

"Luminiferos: The Omen of Light" intricately intertwines fantasy and introspection, mesmerizing readers with its imaginative narrative and thought-provoking themes. The seamless fusion of magic, romance, and philosophy within the novel echoes the enchanting appeal found in beloved works such as "Harry Potter" and "The Alchemist," ensuring its place as a captivating choice for enthusiasts of magical quests and transcendental musings.

Yana Metro's masterful storytelling transports readers to extraordinary realms, allowing them to accompany Lilly White on her quest for meaning and purpose. With its vibrant characters, spellbinding prose, and evocative exploration of love and self-realization, "Luminiferos: The Omen of Light" is an enthralling journey that will leave readers spellbound and inspired. Highly recommended.

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When the children come (Children of the Eye, #1)

When the children come by Barry Kirwan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Imaginative premise that is both captivating and refreshingly original...

"When the Children Come (Children of the Eye Book 1)" by Barry Kirwan is an enthralling science fiction novel that transports readers to a world thrown into chaos. Following the life of Nathan, a war veteran seeking solace in Manhattan, the story takes a dramatic turn on New Year's Eve when he encounters Lara. What begins as a chance meeting quickly spirals into a series of inexplicable events. From the very next morning on, Nathan becomes acutely aware that something is amiss. He witnesses a horrifying scene unfold before his eyes—a terrified child relentlessly pursued by their own parent. Soon after, a young girl named Sally implores Nathan to protect her from her own parents. The world around them is shrouded in an eerie silence, devoid of internet, television, and phone coverage. Nathan, accompanied by Lara and Sally, embarks on a perilous journey along the East Coast. Their path is fraught with danger as they encounter deranged adults, terrorists, armed forces, and other children gripped by fear for their lives. Amidst the uncertainty, Nathan realizes that remaining awake is of utmost importance, for succumbing to sleep would mean turning against the very children he has sworn to protect.

Barry Kirwan's "When the Children Come" is an intriguing science fiction novel that skillfully immerses readers in a world turned upside down. Nathan, a war-weary protagonist yearning for tranquility, is thrust into a position of responsibility for nearly 200 children, a responsibility he never sought. As the narrative unfolds, readers witness Nathan's transformation as he seeks unlikely alliances to safeguard the lives of these vulnerable young people.

When it comes to "When the Children Come" by Barry Kirwan, the well-developed characters and captivating premise shine as the novel's greatest strengths. Kirwan's writing effortlessly pulls readers into a whirlwind of action and suspense right from the first page. The story expertly balances its pacing and character development, keeping readers engaged throughout.

While the book excels in its storytelling, some readers may crave deeper scientific explanations behind the catastrophic events that led to society's collapse. Nevertheless, this slight drawback does not significantly diminish the overall enjoyment derived from the story.

Highly recommended for fans of science fiction, "When the Children Come" is a riveting and intriguing read. The book effortlessly immerses readers in its enthralling world thanks to its compelling premise, well-crafted characters, and fast-paced narrative. Despite the potential for more extensive scientific exploration, the novel remains a satisfying experience that will resonate with genre enthusiasts. Prepare to be captivated by a tale that delves into the human spirit's resilience, the power of unlikely friendships, and the unwavering determination to survive. Recommended as a Y/A sci-fi. 4 ½ stars from me.

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Joyful Selling: A Better Way to Yes for Heart-Centered Coaches

Joyful Selling: A Better Way to Yes for Heart-Centered Coaches by Michelle Rockwood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Achieve meaningful success without compromising your integrity...

Michelle Rockwood's "Joyful Selling" is a true game-changer in the coaching industry, uniquely blending practical strategies with an innate understanding of the heart-centered coaching world. She seamlessly weaves together her diverse background, having transitioned from a lucrative real estate agency to joining the Peace Corps and subsequently raising millions of dollars for nonprofits. Drawing from these experiences, Rockwood has distilled her knowledge into a comprehensive sales methodology that will ignite a vibrant sense of joy within you. An essential resource that every coach should have in their toolkit, the book offers a fresh perspective on sales, emphasizing the importance of integrity and joy in the process. Her expertise and genuine passion shine through on every page, inspiring coaches to embrace a transformative approach that brings fulfillment and success. Highly recommended.


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Where the Crane Lands

Where the Crane Lands by Vincent J DeVito
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A well-crafted middle-grade adventure...

Where the Crane Lands by Vincent J DeVito is a captivating middle-grade adventure that follows Lisa Blume, a young girl faced with the distressing news that her cherished family property is at risk of deforestation. In a world where her parents seem strangely apathetic, Lisa takes it upon herself to save their beloved forest.

Driven by determination, Lisa embarks on a quest to find the mystical creature that holds the key to their salvation: the crane. However, locating the elusive birds proves to be a daunting challenge. Fortunately, Lisa's mother's children's book, aptly titled Where the Crane Lands, might hold the key to uncovering their whereabouts.

With the book as her guide, Lisa embarks on a solo journey into the depths of the forest, but fate has unexpected twists in store for her. Along the way, she encounters a wonderfully grumpy possum who possesses the extraordinary ability to communicate. The forest unravels its secrets, revealing a world beyond Lisa's wildest dreams.

Yet, danger lurks amidst the beauty of nature, as predators roam freely, posing a threat greater than Lisa could have imagined. As readers accompany Lisa on her extraordinary adventure, they become immersed in a narrative that not only entertains but also prompts reflection on the importance of preserving our planet.

Vincent J DeVito skillfully weaves together a tale that brims with imaginative and eccentric characters. From the talking possum to other captivating beings, the story is imbued with a sense of whimsy that will enchant readers of all ages.

Where the Crane Lands is a remarkable journey filled with suspense, heart, and a profound message about environmental conservation. It invites readers to join Lisa on her courageous quest and, in doing so, to develop a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world. Prepare to be captivated by the wild and zany characters who inhabit this mesmerizing tale and, perhaps, discover the power each individual holds to make a difference. Highly recommended.

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The Curse: A Hope Allerd Novel

The Curse: A Hope Allerd Novel by Robert Thornton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A well-crafted multi-genre Y/A novel...

In "The Curse" by Robert Thornton, readers are invited on a thrilling journey that combines the gripping intensity of an infectious disease thriller with the captivating allure of time travel and ancient Egyptian curses. Dr. Hope Allerd, an exceptional infectious diseases specialist, is confronted with a perplexing case that not only involves a near-fatal infection but also intertwines with a string of meticulously executed murders. As the body count rises, an enigmatic serial killer unleashes an ancient Egyptian curse upon those who dare to obstruct their malevolent acts.

Thornton masterfully weaves together a tale that immerses readers in a world brimming with mystery and danger. The plot takes unexpected turns, propelling Hope into a treacherous realm of betrayal and the manipulation of time itself. From opulent mansions belonging to the ultrarich to the resplendent palaces of ancient Egypt, the author effortlessly transports readers across eras and locations, adding depth and richness to the narrative.

With an intricate blend of sci-fi and supernatural elements, "The Curse" is a multi-genre thrill ride. Thornton seamlessly combines elements of infectious disease investigations, intricate police procedurals, and the adrenaline-fueled pursuit of hidden artifacts. The result is a uniquely captivating story that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.

Every chapter is meticulously crafted, skillfully weaving a narrative that leaves readers in suspense and gripping the edges of their seats with tangible tension. Thornton's masterful storytelling captivates and enthralls, enticing readers further into this incredibly unique tale. With ancient villains, potent artifacts, and the constant shadow of a serial killer, the narrative brims with an urgent and perilous atmosphere.

Through Dr. Hope Allerd, Thornton introduces a compelling and resilient protagonist. Hope's expertise in infectious diseases serves as the foundation for her unraveling of the intricate web of crimes. As the danger escalates, readers are given a glimpse into her tenacity and intellect, making her a character worth rooting for.

"The Curse" is a triumph of imagination, blending elements of mystery, suspense, and the supernatural into a seamless and enthralling narrative. Robert Thornton's ability to seamlessly merge various genres and deliver a wholly original story is commendable. Fans of thrillers, historical mysteries, and time-travel adventures will find themselves captivated by this gripping novel. Prepare to be enthralled from beginning to end as you join Dr. Hope Allerd in her race against time to uncover the truth and stop a malevolent force before becoming the next victim of "The Curse." Highly recommended.

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Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals for Business Leaders: Up to Date With Generative AI

Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals for Business Leaders: Up to Date With Generative AI by I. Almeida
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An indispensable resource for non-technical business leaders...

"Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals for Business Leaders" by I. Almeida is an indispensable resource for non-technical business leaders seeking to navigate the world of AI. With its concise and accessible approach, it imparts a deep understanding of AI's evolution, data management, machine learning, deep learning, model selection, and evaluation, as well as generative AI. The integration of the AI Academy platform and the opportunity to enroll in a self-paced course further enhance the learning experience. Now Next Later AI has crafted an exceptional learning resource that equips business leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to harness the power of AI for strategic decision-making. Highly recommended.

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Remote Viewing Session X719: A Collection of Short Stories

Remote Viewing Session X719: A Collection of Short Stories by Dane Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Prepare to be captivated by the possibilities that await within these pages...

Dane Sullivan's debut collection, "Remote Viewing Session X719," takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the dark depths of humanity's future beyond the stars. With a unique blend of cynicism and depth, this anthology captivates from the very first story to the last, leaving readers both haunted and intrigued.

Each narrative within this collection stands as a testament to Sullivan's remarkable storytelling prowess. Some tales evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the golden age of sci-fi, while others embrace the gritty cynicism of modern cyberpunk. As the book progresses, the stories push boundaries and venture into increasingly unhinged territories, defying expectations, and challenging conventional notions of speculative fiction.

Sullivan masterfully weaves the theme of technology's development throughout the anthology, offering an almost comically dark outlook on its path. Through the lens of remote viewing, a practice associated with the OSS and CIA, the author presents glimpses into possible futures. These futures portray a humanity that has reached distant stars, yet remains haunted by the same demons that have plagued us throughout history.

The author fearlessly delves into the complexities of high-tech worlds, where the working class is deemed useless, covert wars are fought over the powers of the mind, and alien invasions are executed through legislation. The stories expose the insidious ways in which planetary colonial powers exert control over outlying systems, while massive monopolistic corporations, predominantly managed by AI, find innovative uses for a now outdated biological labor force. Amidst it all, individuals find the strength to resist and survive, embodying the resilient spirit of humanity.

Sullivan's prose possesses a remarkable balance of humor and haunting beauty. The narratives are laced with wry wit, providing moments of levity amidst the darkness. It is evident that the author possesses a deep understanding of human nature and the intricacies of societal power dynamics, reflected in the thought-provoking themes explored throughout the collection.

"Remote Viewing Session X719" comprises a total of 34 stories, each offering a distinct perspective on the possibilities that lie ahead. From the first page to the last, readers will find themselves engrossed in Sullivan's vividly imagined worlds, pondering the implications of our collective choices as a species.

It is worth noting that this collection contains adult language and situations, which contribute to its raw and unfiltered portrayal of the human condition. Sullivan fearlessly confronts uncomfortable truths, inviting readers to confront their own assumptions and prejudices.

"Remote Viewing Session X719: A Collection of Short Stories" is an original and compelling anthology that offers a glimpse into the untamed realms of our future. Dane Sullivan's debut is a tour de force, delivering stories that are simultaneously entertaining and thought-provoking. Prepare to be captivated by the possibilities that await within these pages. Highly recommended.

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