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ZIP LINE AFTERMATH

Zipline: Aftermath by P. Anthony Michael follows the gripping journey of Neal, a rookie cop on the cusp of fatherhood. Neal is making a name for himself in the force, but beneath the surface, something unsettling lingers. His dreams—strange, vivid, and unnerving—blur the line between fantasy and reality. Is Neal losing his grip, or is something far more sinister at play? Ever since he and his friends emerged from those dark, mysterious woods, Neal’s life has taken an unusual turn. But is this change for better or worse? With a killer on the loose, Neal and those closest to him might be the next targets.

The characters in this novel are beautifully crafted, breathing life into the narrative with originality and depth. Neal, in particular, stands out as a complex protagonist, while the villain exudes mystery and menace, heightening the suspense. The tone is gritty, filled with a simmering tension that grips you from start to finish. The pacing is excellent, with no lulls in the action, and every scene propels the story forward. The vividly depicted setting further immerses the reader in Neal’s world, making the story as compelling as it is addictive. Moments of warmth, such as Neal’s tender interactions with his children, provide balance to the intense drama and action. The brutal and well-described action scenes jump off the page, while Neal’s love story with Gail adds a beautiful emotional layer to the plot. The strong character development and immersive world-building make this a standout second book in the series.

Zipline: Aftermath delivers a captivating blend of suspense, drama, and heartwarming moments, all wrapped in a well-crafted narrative. While it may not carry the same level of constant danger as its predecessor, the rich character development, gripping action, and immersive world-building more than make up for it. P. Anthony Michael has crafted a thrilling sequel that will keep readers hooked, eagerly awaiting what comes next for Neal and his companions. Fans of the series will undoubtedly enjoy this next chapter in Neal’s journey.

Pages: 177 | ASIN : B0D9HKLFFX

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Conversation with Xenex

Conversation with Xenex, by Adria Sanders, offers a profound exploration into the realms of spirituality, metaphysics, and self-discovery. Guided by the insights of an extraterrestrial entity named Xenex, the book delves into topics that push the boundaries of conventional understanding, inviting readers to explore concepts such as the Akashic Records, past lives, twin flames, parallel universes, and astral projection. Through these explorations, Sanders suggests that readers can unlock deeper truths about existence, energy, time, and ultimately, themselves.

The book seamlessly blends personal narrative with universal guidance, making it both a deeply intimate and widely accessible read. Sanders shares her own pre-incarnation experiences on Earth, revealing a significant mission tied to a mysterious place known as the “Z Base.” This element adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative, merging her personal spiritual journey with teachings that resonate with anyone seeking enlightenment on these esoteric topics.

One of the most powerful lessons in the book comes from Sanders’ reflections on love and self-discovery, particularly in the closing pages. She writes: “So, because of him, I’ve learned to love another beyond personal needs and desires… it was through this connection that I learned to love myself, without expecting a human or non-terrestrial entity to rescue me from any situation…” This poignant excerpt captures the essence of the book—learning to love unconditionally, embracing life with an open heart, and discovering strength and self-love from within, rather than relying on external sources of validation or rescue. A strong theme of self-discovery threads throughout the narrative, urging readers to connect with their true selves and uncover their cosmic purpose.

With Xenex’s guidance, the book offers insights into the vastness of existence and provides a pathway to spiritual fulfillment. The “Z Base” concept is particularly intriguing, serving as a focal point in the narrative. It represents a critical aspect of the soul’s journey, where the soul returns to integrate its experiences before progressing further. This element enriches the story, adding depth and significance to the spiritual teachings presented.

Conversation with Xenex, by Adria Sanders, is an invitation to journey into the depths of your soul and the expanses of the universe. Whether you are a seasoned spiritual seeker or just beginning your exploration, this book promises to guide you toward a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the cosmos.

Pages: 277

Pinkies Up

Pinkies Up, written by Raven Howell and illustrated by Lisa Rush, is a charming children’s book that invites young readers to a whimsical tea party attended by a delightful cast of animal friends. Through its rhythmic verses, the story celebrates diversity, community, and the simple joy of coming together. Each page showcases a different group of animals, each with their own distinct quirks and tea-time traditions, creating a vivid, lively narrative that culminates in a heartwarming celebration of togetherness.

The writing is both engaging and enchanting. Howell’s rhythmic verses are a joy to read aloud, making the story accessible and enjoyable for young children. The playful language infuses the narrative with a lighthearted tone, enhancing the overall reading experience. The rhyme scheme flows naturally and consistently, a feat not always easy to achieve in children’s literature, which helps sustain the reader’s interest and makes this book an excellent choice for bedtime reading.

One of the standout aspects of the book is its subtle yet impactful message about manners and the value of community. Amid the chaos of the tea party—with spills and overturned tables—the story beautifully resolves through cooperation and kindness. The wise old owl, who steps in to guide the other animals in tidying up, delivers a moment that is both heartwarming and educational. This scene imparts an essential lesson about teamwork and consideration for others, adding depth to the story.

Lisa Rush’s illustrations are a perfect complement to Howell’s lively text. They burst with color and personality, bringing the animal characters to life with flair. The artwork is not merely decorative but integral to the storytelling, adding layers of humor and depth that keep young readers engaged.

Pinkies Up is a delightful and highly recommended book for parents and educators seeking a fun and meaningful story. Ideal for children aged 3-7, though older readers may also appreciate its playful language and captivating illustrations. Whether the goal is to teach lessons about diversity and manners or simply to share a joyful story, this book is a delightful choice that is sure to become a treasured favorite in any child’s book collection.

Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0CJ61M4PN

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Welcome to the Damned

Welcome to the Damned, by Astraea Long, is a chaotic and dark dive into a dystopian world filled with mind control, broken characters, and violence. The story follows Tal and Rovis, two members of a group known as the Aconites, as they navigate a crumbling society, fighting both external enemies and their own demons. The plot is layered with betrayal, revenge, and a pervasive sense of despair as Tal and Rovis confront forces that threaten their existence and sanity. At its core, this is a story about survival and the blurred lines between good and evil in a world that offers no redemption.

What immediately struck me about the book is its raw, unfiltered tone. From the start, the prose grabs you with a visceral intensity. The opening chapter, where Zero flushes a bottle of pills in an attempt to break free from her own suicidal thoughts, sets the stage for the emotional turmoil that carries through the book​. The writing is brutally honest, almost harsh in its depiction of mental health struggles, and yet it feels deeply human. There’s something refreshing about the way Long allows her characters to wallow in their flaws without forcing a neat resolution. It’s gritty and a bit heartbreaking to read, but it gives the book a powerful emotional core. There are moments of pure brilliance that are haunting and beautifully tragic, and the fast-paced action keeps the story exciting and full of energy.

The world-building is rich and intriguing, and it’s introduced in such a dynamic way that it invites you to dive deeper, rewarding readers who enjoy revisiting key details to fully immerse themselves in the complexity of the setting. Tal and Rovis aren’t just antiheroes; they’re messy, morally ambiguous, and sometimes downright unlikable. Yet, it’s impossible not to root for them as they fight for a place in a world that has tried to crush them. The relationship between the two is complicated and layered with tension. Their banter and interactions often serve as brief moments of levity in an otherwise heavy narrative.

Welcome to the Damned is the perfect read for those who enjoy dark, complex stories with characters that linger long after the final page. I highly recommend this book to readers who appreciate dystopian settings with a psychological twist and aren’t afraid of confronting difficult themes like mental illness and violence head-on.

Pages: 314 | ASIN : B0CP7JTRC6

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Overcoming Anxiety and Depression; Practical Strategies for Managing Symptoms, Embracing Well-Being, Achieving Long-Term Holistic Health

Lillyin Love’s Overcoming Anxiety and Depression: Practical Strategies for Managing Symptoms, Embracing Well-Being, Achieving Long-Term Holistic Health is a self-help guide designed to empower readers struggling with anxiety and depression. The book combines practical tools, such as breathing techniques and mindfulness practices, with a focus on holistic well-being, covering topics like diet, exercise, and sleep. Love offers strategies to build resilience and manage symptoms effectively while weaving in personal insights and evidence-based therapies.

Lillyin Love’s Overcoming Anxiety and Depression takes you on an emotional journey in the best way possible. It is more than just a guide; it feels like an immersive experience. Love’s writing is like sitting down with a close friend who truly gets what you’re going through. There’s no preaching or pretending here, just honest, empathetic storytelling that makes you feel seen and understood. She has a remarkable gift for transforming heavy topics like depression and anxiety into something relatable and even beautiful.

Through Victoria’s story, she weaves in therapy, mindfulness, and the healing power of nature in a way that feels both natural and profound. Readers walk alongside Victoria, experiencing every challenge and victory. The vivid imagery, like the calming clouds of relaxation and Victoria’s unbreakable spirit, stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. You’re not just a reader; you’re living the journey alongside her. And here’s the best part, Love doesn’t stop at inspiration. She arms you with practical tools, strategies, and motivation to make meaningful changes in your own life. It’s a rare blend of personal development and captivating storytelling, and it works beautifully. It is worth noting that, at times, the prose becomes a bit poetic, and I feel this approach may not appeal to all readers. However, this is a minor detail in an exceptional and impactful book.

If you’re searching for a book that will challenge you, help you grow, and leave you feeling empowered, this is it. Lillyin Love’s Overcoming Anxiety and Depression is a must-read for anyone facing anxiety, depression, or simply in need of some inspiration.

Pages: 316 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CY5LR7W1

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Heart Trouble for ZZ

Heart Trouble for ZZ is a delightful and educational picture book that teaches children the importance of caring for a sick pet. The story centers on ZZ, a spirited and playful dog whose only desire is to enjoy life despite a concerning diagnosis from his veterinarian. When the vet warns that ZZ might have a heart problem and advises him to stay calm until the test results are in, ZZ tries his best to settle down, but his exuberant nature gets the better of him. That’s when his loving family steps in, offering the support and guidance he needs.

The adventures of ZZ throughout this vibrant children’s book are a joy to witness. His antics, whether bouncing on the couch or racing around the yard, perfectly capture the playful spirit of a typical dog, and children will be thoroughly entertained by his lively behavior. However, beyond the fun and silliness lies a deeper lesson. As readers follow ZZ’s journey, they learn ways to help a rambunctious pet calm down, even when it’s essential for their health. Heart Trouble for ZZ excels in demonstrating gentle and compassionate ways to care for pets who struggle to settle down when it matters most.

The book’s charm is further enhanced by Zoe Saunders’ stunning illustrations. Her use of a soft color palette and beautiful sketch-style artwork vividly conveys ZZ’s emotions, whether he’s feeling frightened at the vet or discouraged while hiding in the closet. Every page is a visual treat, and children will be captivated by the expressive depictions of ZZ’s experiences.

Heart Trouble for ZZ is a heartwarming and insightful children’s book, ideal for families with pets, especially those dealing with health issues. Even for those without pets, young readers will be enchanted by ZZ’s rambunctious nature and come away with a valuable lesson in caring for loved ones.

Pages: 34 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DFVTFHT1

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Gray Wrath

Terrence Poppa’s Gray Wrath is an intense tale of humanity’s fight for survival against an alien threat. The story kicks off when astronomer Tepler discovers a mysterious asteroid speeding toward Earth, only to accidentally uncover a terrifying extraterrestrial menace. As this threat approaches, former Directorate agent Michael Kendon and Laura Meller, the daughter of the scientist who cracked the key to defeating the aliens, must work together to save the planet. Their mission takes them to an unlikely place—a lighthouse in Puerto Rico, where a hidden weapon, Tepler’s first discovery, may be Earth’s last hope. With the shadowy Directorate chasing them, Kendon and Laura race to unlock the secrets of the lighthouse and mount a final defense against the invaders. The story showcases humanity’s relentless will to survive, portraying the resilience and determination that define us as a species.

I found the sci-fi elements in Gray Wrath thoroughly enjoyable, particularly the way Poppa grounded the alien technology with a sense of logic that stayed consistent throughout the narrative. The exploration of the aliens’ advanced systems, from their energy sources to their communication methods and the defense weapon crafted by Donald Meller, was fascinating. This attention to scientific detail made the alien menace feel more authentic and immersive.

The book skillfully balanced action-packed moments with emotional depth, maintaining a gripping tension that kept me engaged. Shifting between Kendon and Laura’s journey and Tepler and his close friend Gabriela Estrada’s investigation added layers of urgency and scope, allowing the story to build momentum as the threat intensified. Poppa’s ability to weave these different narrative threads together made Gray Wrath an incredibly captivating read. The emotional stakes and fast-paced action blended seamlessly, creating a world I felt fully invested in. The well-crafted characters and their relationships provided a strong emotional core that resonated alongside the larger battle for Earth.

Gray Wrath is an immersive and thrilling sci-fi adventure. I highly recommend it to fans of alien invasion stories and readers who appreciate a well-thought-out blend of scientific intrigue and emotional depth.

Pages: 334 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DB2M6JWV

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Inspired by a Stuffed Animal

Shanti Hershenson Author Interview

Zeke Comes Out of His Shell follows a young hermit crab living in Southern California who is swept away from home during a storm and must find his way home. What was the inspiration for your story?

Zeke Comes Out of His Shell came to me as a surprise. I am not a children’s author by any means—and I am still learning the ins and outs of writing a book for a younger audience—but writing a children’s book has always been something I’ve wanted to do. This story in particular was inspired by a stuffed animal that I’ve had in my room—a hermit crab! The story’s setting was greatly inspired by San Diego and Southern California in general, as that is where I live.

What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?

Particularly with children’s stories, I’ve always enjoyed writing the first page. To me, that’s the most important part of the story—at least for drawing in young readers. The same goes for this book as well. Writing the descriptions of the tide pools and the ocean waves, and introducing the characters, was the best part.

What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?

To me, I felt that keeping the book as factual as possible was very important. I included details such as how hermit crabs find and replace their shells, as well as little references as to what they eat and how they live. Other than that, as the book is for a younger audience, I allowed my imagination to take forth!

Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?

For now, I don’t have definite plans to write another book in this series—with that being said, continuing the journeys of Zeke and his friends is something I would like to do in the future.

Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Website | Amazon

Are you ready to explore the ocean? Join Zeke, a young hermit crab from the sunny coast of Southern California, on his quest to return home after being swept away during a storm. Along the way, he will meet new friends and discover a bravery inside himself that he never knew was there—and maybe you will too.

Zeke Comes Out of His Shell is the perfect adventure for budding readers, lovers of the ocean and the creatures that inhabit it, and those still trying to come out of their shells.