Blog Archives
Sacred Promise
Sacred Promise is written with the sole purpose of inspiring women to “reclaim their voices” and enrich their lives with purpose. Dr. Trent’s book shares a series of stories discussing challenging situations women face. The book tackles difficult topics, including how women don’t feel good enough, women supporting other women, motherhood, pursuing dreams, and handling traumatic situations such as abuse, mental health, addiction, and more.
Dr. Tererai Trent has compiled compelling stories of women from many backgrounds and circumstances. Each story is captivating and encouraging to read, and it shows how women can face a variety of challenges and obstacles on their path toward success, whether small or large. This book is the embodiment of the whirlwind of emotions you feel when you conquer your fears. The stories explore how we can sometimes feel powerless in life, it shows how we can conquer our fears, and that if we do we can turn our life into a beautiful journey that instills confidence and power. While these stories speak specifically to the difficulties many women of various backgrounds and circumstances face, it is an excellent read for anyone that is interested in this subject as there is a powerful sense of humanity that is eloquently woven throughout the book.
I found these stories to be uplifting and illuminating, as each tale addresses common fears that many women face, with real-life scenarios and personal triumphs. As a woman, I found the book encouraging as I was able to relate to each woman in my own way. I highly recommend Sacred Promise to anyone that is searching for purpose and inspiration, whether you’re looking to continue on your current path in life, or take a different one. It is a wonderful book that gives the reader a real sense of hope while celebrating what it means to be a woman. This collection will help readers understand the critical role that women play in society, not only in the past or present, but in the future.
Pages: 362 | ASIN: 0645514004
Taking Ownership Of One’s Life
All in With Love: My Journey to the Hero Within tells your emotional story about rediscovering the passion you had in your youth and making those dreams a reality. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I truly feel that most adults are on this fruitless quest for happiness. I know I sure was and yet the key was found by looking inward, specifically to the child I had forgotten. Taking ownership of one’s life and walking in acceptance of it is something that elevates the human condition. The book is my attempt to shed light on that through a creative, intelligent, and unique reading experience.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
To do so in a way that serves the story and the art I was trying to create. While I have achieved many successes and lived some colorful experiences it is sharing the ugly truth that holds the greatest lessons. The decision I made to leave my family and the collateral damage that ensued was truly the hardest part.
What is one piece of advice someone gave you that changed your life?
As my dad says to Little Jimmy in the Rhode Island Arena, “swing and you won’t be scared anymore.” Sometimes, even in the twilight of life, we need to swing on a dream.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
That inside each of them is a younger self with an outstretched hand. To be inspired to write their own life story – it doesn’t have to be a book but the magic that is within the experience is priceless.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Born with severe asthma and enormous dreams, James Gardiner began his life in conflict with himself. Little Jimmy wanted to reach for the stars like his science-fiction icons and become a sports superstar like the paper heroes that adorned the walls of his childhood bedroom. But as a frequent visitor to the local hospital, viewing the world through the plastic walls of an oxygen tent, such dreams seemed like they would always be firmly out of reach. However it was there on the pediatric wing that he began to entertain audiences with his stories and charm, growing to like the attention. In fact, to crave it. He wanted to “be somebody,” and for the first time, his dreams didn’t seem quite so out of reach.
As he got older, and his asthma became more manageable, he began forging his path of destiny. First, through the sport of rowing where the fragile young man dared to challenge his asthma and strive for the Olympic podium. Then, it was his lust to be a movie star that thrust him into New York City and Los Angeles to world of fashion, celebrity, and even murder. But it was his one unanswerable question that repeatedly seemed to leave his life in shambles. “Can his fantasy life be his reality” became the albatross that hung over the man… and the boy.
Somewhere along the way, he had lost touch with that childlike part of himself that looked at the world each day with joy and wonder. Looking back he had gone “all in” on his quest to be somebody, but now as a middle aged man left with nothing and no one, it was time to reconnect with little Jimmy and go all in on himself . . . to go all in with love.
Within their story of reconnection lies the gateway to reclaim your inner child and live your best, most authentic life.
All Things Are Truly Possible
It’s About Time is a memoir that shares memories from your youth in the ‘50s and ‘60s in Compton, CA and shares your challenges and victories. Why was this an important book for you to write?
My book started off as a paper for an independent study class in Sociology in 1978 at the university I was attending. I carried it around with me for years. I didn’t want to discard it because I felt that there might be some sociological significance to be benefited with youth in terms of helping them deal with obstacles overcoming addiction and adversity.
I appreciated how candid you were in the book. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
There were several incidents that were hard to write about, but the scene where I was robbed and beaten half to death was the most difficult for me to share. I witnessed this scene several times in dreams. This was a very terrifying experience.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger?
I wished someone would have made me slow down and take my time with growing up. I was in such a hurry to grow up. I needed to learn how to become a more responsible individual. I needed to learn how to benefit from someone else’s mistakes.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
I would like people to realize that with God all things are truly possible. I feel that if I was able to pull myself up out of the muck and mire and clean myself off and get back into the race, then anybody who feels they can’t do it can take a lesson from me and move forward with redeeming their life.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook
Coming Alive
Coming Alive is a vibrant and inspiring memoir that follows the author’s spiritual journey, an Italian-American with a deep passion for religion and spirituality. The book is diverse and authentic and details how the author comes to terms with who she is, her sexuality, and how society can be, at most times, closed-minded.
Ierardi’s tone is calm and positive, with clear values and goals. She spends her life looking for the best way to achieve her purpose. The author is determined to never give up, as she conquers many obstacles and difficult situations along her journey. When faced with challenges, Ierardi lets humanity guide her down the right path.
As the author takes the reader through various experiences and situations, she covers many aspects of religion, spirituality, art, astrology, family life, and sexuality. Ierardi delicately but directly discusses how sexual orientation and identity can present a setback where there is a lack of acceptance. However, the author never lets obstacles stand in her way and instead lives valiantly during a time when coming out risks being ostracized by family and community.
I enjoyed the author’s determination and strong spirit, as she presents a clear picture of how she navigates through her family, community, and experiences in life. It’s an immersive story that gives you the holistic view of everything Ierardi goes through and how her journey includes different reactions and experiences as a part of the LGBTQ and feminist communities and movements. Ierardi does an exceptional job of weaving the modern history of social justice and equal rights while searching for a more authentic life.
Coming Alive by Anne Ierardi is an excellent book for anyone from any religion or sexuality. It’s a great read highlighting the personal reward of coming alive while challenging the reader to find their true self and follow an authentic path.
Pages: 241 | ASIN: B09TRZL91W
Barefoot: A Surfer’s View of the Universe
Barefoot: A Surfer’s View of the Universe is a dazzling memoir of the author’s early life, narrated with a sense of adventure and refreshing humility. Pacholyk begins tracing his life through early memories of growing up on the farm in New York state and how his taste for personal development and ambition shaped his growing interests and career choices later in life. The story is centered around the author’s love of surfing and the joy he experiences with the lessons learned from the ocean and this exciting sport.
This extraordinary memoir plays against the scenic backdrop of American cityscapes and beaches, ranging from New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Pacholyk further broadens his horizons by traveling to Asia and beyond. I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s enthusiasm for travel, surfing, and living life to the fullest.
The author’s story includes a passionate pursuit of a career in dance and many excursions to some of the best surfing locations in the world. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of America’s big cities, with a colorfully descriptive journey through Venice through the fresh eyes of a sixteen-year-old and the frenetic energy of New York City as Andrew struggles to establish a career path as a dancer.
What I enjoyed most about this book is how the author is comfortable with his vulnerabilities and doesn’t shy away from discussing his insecurities growing up. He reminisces about friendships through his surfing adventures and mentors who contributed to the quality of his experiences. Pacholyk writes a beautiful memoir interspersed with nuggets of wisdom and valuable lessons that shaped how he navigated through life. When you read Pacholyk’s exciting and enlightening memoir, you’ll feel inspired by the author’s unbridled passion for a life of energy and pushing one’s limits. I recommend Barefoot: A Surfer’s View of the Universe by Andrew Pacholyk for its impeccable, genuine narration and the author’s advice to take a chance and follow your heart.
Pages: 264 | ASIN: 1735319902
I Am Freud!
I Am Freud delves deep into the mind of both the psychoanalyst, Sigmund Freud, his psychology practice, and the psychoanalytical process overall. The book introduces the reader to Freud with autobiographical anecdotes and the author’s life experience concerning the previous, current, and the future of the discipline, which primarily focuses on the vital political connection of the subject. There are interviews and interactions between the author and Dr. Bettelheim, followed by anecdotes, letters, and notes that draw on Freud’s work and the importance of sensory perception in relation to the awakening of the subconscious mind.
This book offered a refreshing view of the complex and immensely interesting findings and perspectives on the psychoanalytical world. It’s a great read that discusses subjects in a conversational tone and it’s welcoming to beginners on the topic into this complex but fascinating discussion. I found the second section of the book particularly insightful, with more focus on Freud’s personality and the impact his nature had on his perception of reality and interactions with his patients. It’s clear that the author is passionate about this subject and enthusiastically shares anecdotes and colorful analogies about treating patients in this interesting field of study.
While the book doesn’t specifically include specific studies or statistical data on psychology pertaining to Freud’s findings, it’s a great read that opens discussion on a topic that many people find interesting. I Am Freud by Dr. Len Bergantino offers a different way of looking at psychology through a raw, uncensored view, which is both educational and entertaining. I recommend this book for its original style and provocative look at a much debated and discussed subject.
Pages: 492 | ASIN: B07KPZ5GDV
Surviving Master Joshua
Surviving Master Joshua: The BDSM Memoir of An Unfaithful Wife by Karma Said is a memoir of the author’s experience as she retells her journey into the world of BDSM. Karma’s initial intention for getting involved begins with an investigation of the lives of religious people who are considered kinky or a part of the fetish community. She initially investigates BDSM for a story on religious people that are kinky. We quickly learn that the author’s real intention to get involved with this community is due to her feeling incomplete in her life and marriage. When she meets Master Joshua, he gives her life a new sense of enjoyment and purpose, but at what cost?
As Karma dives into the exciting world of BDSM, she struggles with compartmentalizing two sides of her life: her husband and two children on one side and Master Joshua’s ability to open her mind to a new, thrilling experience. Throughout her relationship with him, Karma is encouraged to divulge her activities to her husband, as Master Joshua values honesty and communication as a significant part of their relationship. This predicament creates a dilemma for Karma: does she disclose her involvement with BDSM and Master Joshua to her husband, risking everything, or keep it a secret against her dominant’s wishes?
When I initially began reading this book, I wasn’t sure which direction the author would take in handling the intriguing world and experiences with BDSM. It’s more than discovering innermost needs and fulfilling a new fantasy; it’s a tale about the impact of communication and how honesty, or a lack of it, can be destructive to a relationship. The author further explores the dynamics of each character and the complex nature of their personality. We see the ordinary side of Master Joshua and how he’s like everyone else, despite his dominant presence in the BDSM world.
The author portrays the depth of each character’s needs, Karma, her husband David, their emotions, and how they cope with life while battling their inner struggles. I found Surviving Master Joshua to be an exciting and well-written book. There is a great combination of intense sexual and power dynamics with the importance of interpersonal communication and honesty.
Pages: 232 | ASIN: B09SQBVL1Z
If You Really Love Someone…
I Am Woman is your memoir sharing with the world the challenges you faced living with an alcoholic husband and all you endured to keep your marriage and family together. Why was this an important book for you to write?
It was important for me to write this book to heal and come to terms with all that I endured with Tony. I had hesitated a few times, I cannot deny, but was finally able to relive some very painful moments. I felt it necessary to share my experiences with the world. Tony was a wonderful man until drink overwhelmed him.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
It was definitely hard to write about the time that he fell seriously ill and declined. I had to leave the computer many a time, wondering if I could even see my memoir through. If not for the encouragement from my daughter (my best friend), and my granddaughter (my personal cheerleader), you might never have read this book.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about marriage?
Marriage is definitely far from a fairy tale, but, it helps you to evolve spiritually if handled with love and tenderness. – and tons of patience.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
If you really love someone, give it your all.
Author Links: Partridge Publishing | Website
This book was painstakingly-written to relate my true journey and endless attempts to save my union and husband. I tried even harder because he was truly a gem of a man. It has taken me years to muster the courage and will to revisit some of the most painful moments in my life. It is only close to his 23rd year of demise that I have come to terms with all he had done and feel that now I have his blessing to share my journey with the world. All women are my sisters and it is in the name of this sisterhood that I bring forth my life’s journey to share. Life is not over, for I have learnt to survive. How I have survived is yet another story.
LITERARY TITAN 