Monday, September 18, 2023

THE ADVENTURES OF HAIRBALL & 'HOT FLASH' GRANNY

THE ADVENTURES OF HAIRBALL & 'HOT FLASH' GRANNY (Bodyslam Book 1)THE ADVENTURES OF HAIRBALL & 'HOT FLASH' GRANNY by Mike Bloemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An entertaining and spirited narrative...

Ben Boomer, age 12, is the protagonist of "The Adventures of Hairball & 'Hot Flash' Granny (Bodyslam Book 1)" written by Mike Bloemer. This book is a hilarious look into Ben Boomer's life. Ben's family is not like other families; they are professional wrestlers, and they frequently embarrass him in front of a national television audience. Even though he used to look up to them, now that he is getting older, he thinks they are not as cool as they once were, especially after seeing his grandmother beat his father to death with a steel chair on television.

But the drama in Ben's family is the least of his worries right now. Ben and his friends who struggle with social interaction are the targets of the popular school bully, Terrence Grand. Ben, fed up with all of this, makes the decision to join the wrestling team in order to defeat Terrence. However, he quickly realizes that wrestling tryouts are difficult, and in order to compete with his opponent, he needs to gain 20 pounds in a period of four weeks. The fact that Ben's life is made even more difficult by the fact that Terrence's dad is the wrestling coach only makes matters worse.

In the event that all of this wasn't troubling enough, Ben becomes involved in a peculiar plot that involves his family. The nefarious CEO of Kings Wrestling Federation, Ronald Rump, has devised a plan to eliminate Ben's family wrestling business by relocating his own company. Ben is tasked with the difficult task of ensuring the financial security of his family while also coping with issues related to school and crushes.

The book written by Mike Bloemer is an action-packed thriller that depicts Ben's exploits and difficulties within the context of a peculiar family dynamic. As Ben navigates the challenges of high school, including bullies and unexpected family issues, readers will find themselves rooting for him. This book is a hilarious ride that does an excellent job of capturing the triumphs and tribulations of growing up in the most entertaining way possible.

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A Dream Beyond Possibility: A Visit to 1939

A Dream Beyond Possibility: A Visit to 1939A Dream Beyond Possibility: A Visit to 1939 by Dr. Ross D. Donahue
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An engaging narrative that encompasses time travel, romance, and gripping drama...

"A Dream Beyond Possibility: A Visit to 1939" by Ross Donahue is a captivating tale that combines time travel, romance, and drama, set in DuBois, Pennsylvania. The story follows Michael Bailey, a retired government worker burdened by regrets as he grapples with missed opportunities and seeks a more impactful existence.

Despite professional success, Bailey feels a sense of underachievement. His vivid dreams, shared with his wife, hint at unfulfilled ambitions. One night, his dreams transport him to 1939, altering his life and others. Through fear, compassion, and friendship, Bailey navigates this journey, confronting discrimination and family struggles while nurturing hope.

Blending history and fiction, the book delves into human choices and emotions, irrespective of age. "A Dream Beyond Possibility" stands out for portraying an active older individual, underscoring that age doesn't limit the significance of life's choices. Through Bailey's journey, Donahue prompts readers to reflect on the impact of personal experiences and the enduring nature of human emotions. Highly recommended.

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Punch The Elephant : How To Sell Anything To Anyone And Overcome Any Objection... Even If You're Bad At Sales

Punch The Elephant : How To Sell Anything To Anyone And Overcome Any Objection... Even If You're Bad At Sales (The Shortcut Series)Punch The Elephant : How To Sell Anything To Anyone And Overcome Any Objection... Even If You're Bad At Sales by Mike Koenigs
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Helping readers master the art of selling...

In "Punch The Elephant: How To Sell Anything To Anyone And Overcome Any Objection... Even If You're Bad At Sales," Mike Koenigs offers a straightforward approach to sales, derived from years of studying psychology, business, and language. This sales system, known as the Superpower Accelerator Lightning Close, transcends conventional methods, helping readers master the art of selling. Koenigs addresses common pitfalls, and shares strategies for crafting compelling sales stories, handling objections, and utilizing AI for enhanced results. With real examples and word-for-word scripts, this book equips readers to succeed in sales, regardless of their background. Highly recommended.


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We've Got This: Unlocking the Beauty of Belonging

We've Got This: Unlocking the Beauty of BelongingWe've Got This: Unlocking the Beauty of Belonging by Ritu Bhasin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Harnessing the transformative potential of authenticity...

"We've Got This: Unlocking the Beauty of Belonging" by Ritu Bhasin presents a robust and indispensable guide, urging readers to cast aside facades and embrace their genuine selves. In a world where societal pressure frequently overshadows authenticity, Bhasin's book stands as a beacon of empowerment, directing readers toward recovery, resilience, and self-empowerment.

As a distinguished authority in DEI and empowerment, Bhasin draws from her personal journey of conquering challenges to provide an illuminating roadmap. From her upbringing as a child of working-class immigrants to her flourishing career as a lawyer and business leader, she possesses an intimate grasp of the complexities tied to embracing one's identity in the midst of societal constraints.

"We've Got This" not only delves into adversities but also reveals the victories in claiming one's rightful identity. Through empathy, wit, and well-researched insights, Bhasin reveals the profound importance of belonging, not just for individuals, but also for the global community. The book underscores that embracing authenticity extends beyond personal liberation, catalyzing broader societal transformation.

Blending wisdom with relatability, Bhasin empowers readers to navigate hatred and challenges, equipping them with strategies to stand firm in the face of hardship. The book resonates with the message that authenticity not only frees but also fosters joy and human connection.

"We've Got This" emerges as a timely and timeless guide, reminding us that genuine belonging is within our grasp. Bhasin's words serve as a rallying cry, motivating readers from diverse backgrounds to unlock the allure of belonging, embrace their distinctiveness, and harness the transformative potential of authenticity. Highly recommended.

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An Admirer of Books: Book Two in the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series

An Admirer of Books: Book Two in the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series (The Amalfi Mysteries 2)An Admirer of Books: Book Two in the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series by AJ Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A compelling and immersive historical mystery...

"An Admirer of Books," the second installment in AJ Lewis's Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series, immerses readers in a gripping historical narrative interwoven with intrigue, justice, and the human struggle. The story takes place in a city that has recently experienced an earthquake, and it opens with the discovery of a body in a Turkish bath and the release of insane people who are now wandering the streets. Within this tumultuous setting, Muhammad, a law student, emerges as a stalwart defender, standing for a manservant facing murder charges and a mysterious maidservant referred to as 'An Admirer of Books.'

As the aftermath of the earthquake echoes through the alleys of the Casbah, Muhammad's pursuit of justice leads him into the courtroom. Here, his legal expertise takes center stage as he undertakes the defense. However, this quest for truth introduces him to a formidable adversary whose actions have the potential to dismantle Muhammad's defense strategy. Concurrently, a madman, marked by tragedy, becomes entwined in the intricate tapestry of events.

"An Admirer of Books" weaves a tapestry of themes encompassing identity, fidelity, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Lewis masterfully crafts a fast-paced historical fiction narrative set against an unconventional backdrop. For readers who relish historical fiction enriched with mystery and unconventional settings, this book offers an engaging voyage into a realm of intrigue. Guided by the skillful hand of the author, who seamlessly blends history and fiction, the story becomes a compelling and immersive reading experience. Highly recommended.

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When I Killed You: A Psychological Thriller

When I Killed You: A Psychological ThrillerWhen I Killed You: A Psychological Thriller by Liam Fialkov
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A mind-bending psychological thriller...

"When I Killed You" is a gripping psychological thriller that unveils a 30-year-old mystery surrounding Alice's disappearance. Her family is haunted by her vanishing. Alice's mother explores the eerie idea of a self-fulfilling prophecy while her father, a physics professor, delves into parallel universes for answers. Her older sister weaves narratives about their family history. The arrival of investigative journalists shifts the narrative, unraveling law enforcement failures. Tension mounts, propelling readers to a stunning climax, followed by alternative endings via parallel universes.

This book merges mystery with theoretical physics, offering a compelling choice for fans of intricate thrillers. Fialkov and Langford deliver a captivating tale with suspense, complex characters, and unexpected twists. Highly recommended for those seeking an extraordinary narrative.

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The Degas Trove

The Degas TroveThe Degas Trove by Stephen Timbers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A gripping murder mystery...

"The Degas Trove" by Stephen Timbers presents a gripping murder mystery that unfolds in the world of art and academia. Claire Bailey's act of philanthropy takes a dark turn when two of the valuable impressionist pieces she donated to Yale University Art Gallery vanish overnight. To her dismay, the tragedy deepens with the murder of her grandniece within the Yale Library stacks.

As the official investigation lags, Claire's son, Charlie, steps in, determined to unravel the art theft and solve the connected murder. In his pursuit, Charlie delves into the intricate realm of art history, colliding with international art dealers and immersing himself in the lives of two renowned artists. The plot intricately weaves together the threads of art, intrigue, and crime, culminating in a search for a hidden cache of priceless paintings to unmask the murderer.

Stephen Timbers crafts a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story seamlessly intertwines art and mystery, drawing readers into a web of suspense and intellectual intrigue. "The Degas Trove" is a masterful exploration of the high-stakes world of stolen art, murder, and one man's determined quest for justice. Highly recommended.

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