(NewsUSA) - What Eyes Can’t See by Paulette Stout 

“A gripping, moving story… of love, justice, redemption.” 
Midwest Book Review 

Barbara navigates the NYC corporate world as a confident Black lawyer, balancing sky-high career goals with heavy family expectations. After a broken engagement leaves her reeling, Barbara lands at an island paradise and gets swept away by Sebastian. The hazel-eyed Adonis with a mysterious past makes Barbara feel seen for the first time in her life.  

Yes, he’s white and she’s Black. She’s rich and he grew up on food stamps, but none of that matters. Until they return home and Sebastian gets the job meant for her. 

Suspecting racial discrimination, Barbara challenges her boss in court. That decision puts the lovers on opposite sides of a battle they long to fight together. As their love and convictions are put to the test, one question remains: how much are they willing to risk to find justice? https://books2read.com/what-eyes-cant-see 

Searching for Zen: A Tale of Divine Destiny by Albert T. Franklin 

The story begins on Earth, but an Earth with a past steeped in fantasy and science fiction. From humble beginnings, a boy is given a divine destiny, a chance to make his mark on human civilization, but he must embark upon a life-changing journey. He struggles to understand, losing himself in doubt and loneliness as he confronts the dark side of humanity. 

Coming of age, Zen builds a family from a motley collection of strangers and discovers love. His newfound friends help him understand his reason for fighting. His trials amplify as his power increases, and he sparks the ire of those in the spirit realm, who doubt any human can wield such power successfully. As Zen struggles to fulfill his purpose, he learns that love, friendship, and divine destiny come with a heavy price. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3Ri7EGO. 

Tricking Power into Performing Acts of Love by Shepherd Siegel 

People and cultures draw on a mix of archetypes, the attributes of personality that make them who they are—Warrior, Caretaker, Magician, Fool, Hero, Sage—and Trickster. This book is about how grownups who have retained the ability to be playful as they were when a child view the world. Such grownups will consciously or unconsciously engage with the Trickster, and this book is about what could happen if society made more of that animating force. 

Today, an infantilized infatuation with the Warrior archetype tears society apart. The best response comes out of a more peaceful and playful approach. In a time of great political frustration and culture wars, readers respond well to Tricking Power into Performing Acts of Love, which proposes the pursuit of fun and the refusal to take power seriously as a timeless and potent political strategy. Purchase at https://shepherdsiegel.com/books/. 

Messed Up Like You by Rick Culleton 

Rick Culleton is hardly the kind of person you’d expect to fly an airplane. He is fearful of heights and lacks a good sense of orientation. None of this, however, has prevented him from earning a pilot’s license. Nor have anxiety and ADHD and people labeling him a lost cause stopped him from becoming highly successful as an entrepreneur. 

The author struggled in school because of learning difficulties. He showed no athletic talent, did a brief stint in prison, and spiraled into debt hustling used cars. But with encouragement from a friend, he turned his life around and built an Inc. 5000 company selling discount electronics. 

Messed Up Like You is a compelling narrative. Weaving together harrowing anecdotes from flight school and from the author’s business ventures, it will propel readers toward becoming their best selves and prompt them to take action. Purchase at https://amzn.to/414aN0d.

(NewsUSA) -

Survival at Stake by Poorva Joshipura

With science recognizing animal consciousness, intelligence, emotion and morality, we must be aware of our own moral responsibilities toward other beings. But there's another reason to consider animals' well-being -- because it is intertwined with our own.

Leading animal rights activist Poorva Joshipura argues that, evolutionarily, humans are more like other animals than we care to believe. She examines how hunting wildlife leads to pandemics and epidemics, which, in turn, harm us; how the production of meat destroys forests and causes climate change, which, in turn, destroys us; how blood sports hurt both humans and animals; how leather production damages the environment and human health; how animal experimentation is often a threat to public health; how cruelty to animals leads to violent crimes; and so on. It’s time to take the necessary steps towards the betterment of all the planet's inhabitants. Purchase at peta.org/survival.

The Idea People by Mike Lubow

It is 1987: the "greed is good" era. When anxious ad agency whiz Ben Franklin Green accidentally falls through a wall during a boardroom presentation, he hops a plane and flies west instead of returning to work. During a nostalgic sojourn in the eucalyptus and marijuana-scented playland of LA’s sexy Laurel Canyon, he plans to develop a book with his former mentor about the sham that is the advertising business.

But his plans are short-lived when his mentor's outdoorsy daughter is kidnapped while working in the Rocky Mountain wilds. Ben, with the creativity of a Madison Avenue idea man, becomes an unlikely detective as he is drawn into the case.

Ben's interest in nature, loyalty to his friends, and an uncanny ability to see what others miss allow him to become a rare bird who finds a new life in the Wild West. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3S6d6fl

Moons by R.E. Mason

This is a tale of two worlds at cross-purposes, orbiting around a once-habitable planet. Two men, strangers to each other, are commissioned to find and bring their chosen heir back to claim her right to ascendency in time to stop a despot from taking control of both Moons.

 Moons, an action-packed sci-fi adventure novel, is written by a happily retired, blind octogenarian living in the Bay Area in Northern California. As a lad, he was curious for what he might find on the other side of the hill, and throughout his life, he sought to find it. He felt he belonged somewhere else, and that someday they would come for him. He created that world, that adventure, those people and friends, where he can go from time to time. This first excursion, Moons, takes him to that other world. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3TrYEAE.

The Unexpected Benefits of Being Run Over by Naseem Rochette

Breaking doesn’t mean you’re broken.

In a pedestrian crosswalk on a quiet street, Naseem is hit and then run over three times. She hears her fate in her husband’s screams. Is he watching the mother of his children die?

Miraculously, she survives, yet she is no longer the person she was. Her “cracks”—the changes to her body and mind—initially feel impossible to accept. In learning to embrace this new, unrecognizable self, Naseem decides to celebrate the day she almost lost her life as the day she discovered her true strength—her Unbreakable Day.

In this unique memoir, equal parts heart wrenching and inspiring, Naseem lays bare the reality of personal trauma—and how we each have the power to reimagine our lives and find beauty in being both broken and unbreakable. Named Book of the Year in the Best Indie Book Award. Purchase at https://amzn.to/49nCzZh.

(NewsUSA) - Dying for a Second Chance by Jenn Chapman

Someone has been killing and dumping women on the Shoalwater Bay Reservation in Washington State. In Dying For a Second Chance, a psychological thriller with a supernatural twist, Sergeant Rod Kills On Top investigates a car crash which leads him to details that may help solve the murders.  As he works with Jessica, a survivor of the crash, he begins to suspect that her husband may be the killer.

Jessica keeps her true identity, and what she knows, a secret because if she tells the truth she is likely to die — again! This tight and taut detective story, embedded in an indigenous setting, invites the reader to reflect on the “spirit world” that co-exists within the terrestrial world, where the “hereafter” and the “here-and-now” intersect. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3rflb7x.

Life After Love by Lorraine Cover

Kate Covington wants two things -- to finally get on with her life three years after the passing of her husband, and to experience the passion she hopes to instill in her writing that will fulfill her desire to be an author of steamy short stories.

Setting sail on a cruise hoping to do just that, she crosses paths with cocky, sexy, and much younger Luca Bell’Angelo, licking his wounds after yet another failed relationship.

When her fear of letting go sends her into retreat mode, they come to a platonic agreement to help each other. Luca’s expertise will help Kate spice up her writing, and Kate’s take on life will help Luca uncover why the love he longs for has been so elusive.  But once their relationship moves past the platonic stage, their lives are changed in ways neither expected. Purchase at https://bit.ly/46Ft9Ha.

Madame Pommery by Rebecca Rosenberg

 A story of a woman's indomitable spirit in the face of insurmountable odds. Set in Champagne, France in 1860, Madame Pommery is a 40-year-old widow and etiquette teacher whose husband has died. Now she must find a way to support her family. With no experience, she decides to make champagne, but no champagne makers will teach her their craft.

Undeterred, she begins to secretly excavate champagne caves under the Reims city dump and faces numerous obstacles. From the Franco-Prussian war that conscripts her son and crew to the Prussian General Frederick Franz occupying her home, she perseveres. She even must choose between her champagne dreams and a marriage proposal from a Scottish Baron. Inspired by a true story, Madame Pommery is a heroic tale of a woman's strength and determination to create a champagne legacy. Purchase at https://bit.ly/43BIMg2.

A Reaction to Messianic Missionaries by Cheryl Simani

A fresh, exciting perspective on the missionary/counter-missionary controversy. Appalled by the nefarious tactics of Christian missionaries disguised as Jews, Rabbanit Simani pens a personal letter to those misled by their wiles. She addresses the “Jews for Jesus” organization head-on and dives deep into the characters and sources for Jewish and Christian Messianic claims.

The book addresses the development of the “Messianic Jewish” movement and the “Isaiah 53 Campaign” – an aggressive effort targeting Jews with misinformation to convert them to their disguised form of Christianity. It also outlines the conflicting historical paths of Judaism and Christianity.  This is a dynamic perspective of the origins of Early Christianity, a must-read for anyone interested in who was or will be the Messiah. A perfect gift for the “truth-seekers” among family and friends, and that special rabbi. Purchase at https://bit.ly/45OLZue.

(NewsUSA) - We Never Knew of Darkness by Dennis Snyder

In April 1994, Hutu extremists—known as the Interahamwe —assassinated Rwanda's president and embarked on a campaign of ruthless genocide against the minority Tutsi populations. Elijah Mutabazi, a sergeant in the Rwandan army, finds his younger sister, having been gang-raped and slaughtered by teenage killers recruited by the Interahamwe. Elijah spends his every waking hour caring for his father and protecting their village.

 Upon returning to active military duty, Elijah learns that the international community had not come to aid those who survived the genocide, but ensured safe passage for the Interahamwe overlords. Elijah deserts his army post and enters a world of reckless abandon via heroin, psychedelics, and grain alcohol.

 Elijah's singular mission becomes vengeance against an active Interahamwe cell and its maniacal leader, who once served as a captain in the Rwandan Army and had been Elijah's mentor. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3QCVA2Y.

The Sacrifice by Caroline Steiger

A chilling journey with a captivating storyline and well-developed characters, this novel will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

Spring Break. A rite of passage. A ritual. A must-do until everything turns on its side. A sociopath amid the revelry. The three J's, their ringleader John. Always together and never apart. The witnesses to his crime or accomplices, as he refers to them. "You did nothing to stop me," says John, and his friends are forever linked to him.

A sacrifice made to keep them from prison and their souls forever fractured. The Sacrifice is a psychological thriller spanning three timelines, three murders and souls forever bound by the carnage of their ill-fated spring break to the exotic Cancun in 1989. Purchase at https://bit.ly/44ByYmU.

Finding His Way Home by Katie Mongelli

“A celebration of the most important aspects in our lives (family, love, friendship), which often get placed on back burners as we drive toward what we think we want,” says Elizabeth B. Splaine, author of Steel Butterflies.

Escape to the picturesque town of Pine Lake, where the weight of the world is washed away by the gentle lapping of crystal-clear waters. Zachary Hartmann, a man teetering on the edge of ruin, seeks solace amidst the tranquil embrace of this lakeside haven. Zachary yearns to rediscover himself and untangle the knots of his unraveling existence. However, fate has a different plan when he crosses paths with the captivating Missy Wagner. Her girl-next-door allure and an infectious spirit enchant Zachary, as he finds himself falling under her spell. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3Kq1xN4.

Two Roads by Randy Wojnarowicz

An unforgettable, heartbreaking love story set in picturesque New England, where a family discovers, as Jean Baptiste Racine forewarned, "There are no secrets that time does not reveal!"

As Ray Shipman slips deeper into Alzheimer’s, he reveals a dark family secret that threatens to destroy the people he spent a lifetime protecting. Ray and his wife Allison face a reality they avoided since the first year of their marriage, forcing them to question whether their 50-year love story was real. Ray’s daughter Dorothy struggles to find the truth of who she really is and whether Ray is the loving father she adores—or a fraud

Two Roads takes readers on an emotional ride, seen through the eyes of three generations—as they grapple with their past, losing Ray, and an unimaginable tragedy no one sees coming. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3qwKAtC.

(NewsUSA) - I Am Pink by Gregory Copploe and Dani Forrest

I Am Pink is a captivating odyssey of self-discovery and empowerment. This award-winning book unfolds a narrative of resilience, authenticity, and personal growth, inviting readers to embark on a soulful journey. With a vibrant blend of wisdom and vulnerability, it navigates the complexities of life, offering a roadmap to embracing one's unique identity. Each page resonates with a powerful message, encouraging readers to break free from conventions and celebrate their individuality.

Through heartfelt storytelling, I Am Pink not only captivates but also serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that within the depths of our challenges lie opportunities for profound transformation. It's more than a book; it's a transformative companion for those seeking to paint their lives with the rich hues of authenticity and resilience. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3w6PJL2.

Shiraz & Syrah by Mina Abdi

Embark on an exceptional dining adventure with chef Mina Abdi's Shiraz & Syrah, a delicious convergence of Persian and French cuisines for a unique gastronomic experience. Amidst the vivid memories of Iran's rich culture, aromatic street food, and the elegant flavors of French cuisine, Mina, a professional chef who has been cooking for family and friends, restaurants, and events for the last fifty years, invites you to explore the intertwining histories of Shiraz and Syrah. She grew up surrounded by old family recipes and traditional dishes and mastered Persian cooking and grew eager to explore other countries’ dishes.

Encapsulating a lifelong passion for Persian and French cuisines, Mina makes unique food accessible for everyday enjoyment. Discover exquisite flavors that transcend time and place, bringing two worlds together in your kitchen. Shiraz and Syrah celebrates culture, love, and the pure joy of exceptional food. Purchase at bit.ly/3GKvq8q.

Trouble Ain’t Nothin’ But a Word by Paul O. Scott

This memoir begins with a massive heart attack that leaves author Paul Scott in a vegetative state with little possibility of recovery, according to his doctors.  What they didn’t know about him was he neither counted anyone out nor anyone in, especially himself.

He lived his life overcoming multitudinous challenges living by the adage, “All I need is a tiny chance and I’ll make it work.” His story is delivered from a 5’4” frame being constantly told “you can’t, or you won’t.” He was a make-believe Christian with the gift of gab and full of crime.  He refused to accept no, only the last yes.

His memoir addresses his upbringing as a Black Christian Scientist who chose the criminal path, yet no prison.   This memoir shines a light on alcoholism, drug abuse, physical abuse, ever-present crime, and consistently circumventing all challenges. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4cizoDM.

Third Collection of Short Stories by Stanislas M. Yassukovich

Stanislas Yassukovich returns with another riveting collection of short stories, a worthy successor to his acclaimed Short Stories and A Cape Town Decameron. Each tale, woven from his vast experiences, spans an array of subjects, characters, and locales. Drawing inspiration from his illustrious career as an international investment banker, Yassukovich gives readers a privileged peek into the intersections of finance, adventure, and the human spirit.

 Every story offers a unique flavor, capturing varied moods and moments. Collectively, they paint a vivid tableau of a world both bygone and current, all anchored by enduring values. His insights, observations and keen writing style provide the roadmap for journey through a life richly lived and brilliantly recounted. Purchase at https://bit.ly/47yUXMK.

(NewsUSA) - The Challenge of Choice by Richard Fast

Have you ever made an important decision with total confidence, only to see it become a complete disaster? Why do we frequently make crucial decisions based on false confidence and wishful thinking? Because the human brain makes many time-saving assumptions to navigate our modern world, resulting in faulty insights and delusional beliefs without the slightest awareness from our conscious self.

This book will challenge the way you think about making critical decisions by taking you on a fascinating journey into the inner workings of the human mind. Through quizzes, exercises, and real-world examples, you will discover how your decisions are really made and why you can be most vulnerable to decisional error when your confidence is at its highest. You’ll see how you can easily detect and overcome the common cognitive illusions that lead to poor choices and bad judgment. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3RxXxMY.

Third Collection of Short Stories by Stanislas M. Yassukovich

Stanislas Yassukovich returns with another riveting collection of short stories, a worthy successor to his acclaimed Short Stories and A Cape Town Decameron. Each tale, woven from his vast experiences, spans an array of subjects, characters, and locales. Drawing inspiration from his illustrious career as an international investment banker, Yassukovich gives readers a privileged peek into the intersections of finance, adventure, and the human spirit.

Every story offers a unique flavor, capturing varied moods and moments. Collectively, they paint a vivid tableau of a world both bygone and current, all anchored by enduring values. His insights, observations and keen writing style provide the roadmap for journey through a life richly lived and brilliantly recounted. Purchase at https://bit.ly/47yUXMK.

Historical Perspective and International Relations by Yoav J. Tenembaum

Composed of short articles, this book highlights some of the most momentous events in modern and contemporary history having an ongoing effect on the way international relations have evolved. Cardinal events in the history of international relations are assessed with historical perspective. A section is devoted to the role of history in the shaping of foreign policy. Some articles dwell on the more theoretical aspects of international relations and diplomacy, and others on the intersection of international law and diplomacy.

The book concludes with articles on imagination and the study of history, on the use of counterfactual history, and on historical truth and historical narrative and their relevance in current international relations. The book is aimed at a wide readership, interested in history and international relations. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3vCSovI.

Chicano Frankenstein by Daniel A. Olivas

The latest novel from critically acclaimed author (and attorney) Daniel A. Olivas is a thought-provoking retelling of Mary Shelley’s classic. Olivas’s protagonist, known only as the man, has been brought back to life to work as a paralegal in a futuristic world plagued by labor shortages. He doesn’t remember his past. The man’s search for identity intensifies as he falls for Faustina, a partner at a Pasadena law firm.

Critics are lauding Chicano Frankenstein as “an intriguing read” (Library Journal), “fascinating” (Publishers Weekly), “beguiling” (Foreword Reviews), and a 2024 must-read book (Hip Latina). Author Orlando Ortega-Medina said: “This important novel is at once frightening and humorous, and I found myself laughing out loud more than once as Olivas cleverly delivered his cautionary message, served with a basket of fresh baked pan dulce.” Actor Thom Rivera narrates the audiobook. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3IhJqY1.