Black Cliff Chronicles by Steve Sterling
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Synopsis: Three intertwined time travel rescue missions reveal how ordinary people rise to extraordinary acts of valor, driven by selflessness and a willingness to sacrifice for others.
The thriving university town of New Jerusalem nestles in the secluded hill country north of the Ozark National Forest in rural Arkansas. New Jerusalem is a wonderful place to put down roots as long as you don’t go into the experimental forest and find Black Cliff, a place of dark power.
Was it a simple misstep in 1989 when high school seniors Mary Sanders and Charlie Barrows became lost during a fall hike and stood facing Black Cliff? Or were other forces at play?
Before they can flee, Black Cliff entangles Mary in a web of time travel, strands that transport her back 300 years in history to a horrific civil war and a daring solo rescue mission.
Months later, Mary returns to New Jerusalem and to 1989, battered by her war experiences and heartsick over those she left behind. Once home, her struggles continue. Time travelers and friends gather to help Mary and Charlie. They have less than three days to rescue America from a plot to seize the presidency.
Summary: Overall, Black Cliff Chronicles is more than just a time travel adventure—it’s a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to confront the past and shape the future. Whether you’re a fan of speculative fiction, historical thrillers, or character-driven dramas, this book has something to offer. Happy reading!
See the full review here: Black Cliff Chronicles
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Hoplite Ridge by Sean Patrick Sayers
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Synopsis: Hoplite Ridge – A Military, Dystopian, and Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction Epic
In a universe where war is eternal and gods refuse to be forgotten, Hoplite Ridge thrusts readers into a high-stakes conflict that will determine the fates of worlds. This gripping military science fiction saga blends dystopian science fiction with post-apocalyptic science fiction, exploring the cost of loyalty, the power of rebellion, and the blurred lines between destiny and free will.
Spanning across multiple war-torn planets, Hoplite Ridge follows elite warriors caught in a battle far greater than themselves. As political tensions rise and hidden forces awaken, alliances are tested, secrets unravel, and a dangerous truth comes to light—one that could reshape the course of history.
For fans of Frank Herbert’s Dune and Joe Haldeman’s The Forever War, Hoplite Ridge delivers pulse-pounding action, deep philosophical themes, and a richly detailed world where strategy, survival, and sacrifice define the battlefield.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey through war, myth, and the unknown. In the fight for the future, only those who dare to challenge fate will survive.
Summary: Overall, Hoplite Ridge is an ambitious, cerebral, and ultimately rewarding read. It challenges, entertains, and invites reflection—qualities I value in speculative fiction. If you’re looking for a novel that pushes the boundaries of genre and explores the deeper questions of existence, this one is worth diving into. Happy reading!
See the full review here: Hoplite Ridge
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The Mental Toolbox by David Harrison
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Synopsis: Practical Brain Training for a Happier, Stress-Free, and More Productive Life
In today’s fast-paced world, improving mental wellness has never been more important. The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a 25% rise in anxiety and depression worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for tools to build mental resilience.
The Mental Toolbox can help you create those tools, tailored to fit your lifestyle, and flip the script from mental illness to mental wellness. This book is for everyone—whether you’ve faced mental health challenges or not. Along the way, you’ll unlock the keys to a healthier mind, greater resilience, and your full potential.
Written in clear, straightforward language, The Mental Toolbox is practical and accessible to everyone. It offers tools, strategies, and advice that can strengthen your mental resilience, cognitive abilities, emotional intelligence, and ability to deal with stress. By doing so, it helps you enhance your overall well-being, serving as a valuable guide on your journey of personal growth.
Inside, you’ll be introduced to the five main pillars of mental health and overall well-being:
Sleep
Exercise
Nutrition
Mindfulness
Conscious Thinking
Understanding these pillars and how they interconnect is key to boosting your overall health and enhancing your ability to manage stress. By learning to apply these principles in your daily life, you’ll develop stronger mental resilience, improve cognitive function, and build a foundation for long-term well-being.
This book has the power to transform your mindset and your life. With the right approach, the possibilities are limitless.
Change your mind,
Change your life
—and discover just how far you can go with….
The Mental Toolbox.
Summary: Overall, The Mental Toolbox serves as a valuable resource for those aiming to proactively manage stress, enhance cognitive abilities, and foster a happier, more productive life. It’s a testament to the idea that with the right tools and mindset, anyone can achieve mental wellness and resilience. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in practical brain training and self-improvement. Happy reading!
See the full review here: The Mental Toolbox
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