Blog Archives
Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life
Passion Struck by John R. Miles offers a compelling framework for transforming your life, discovering your passion, and unlocking your hidden potential. Drawing from over 30 years of experience, John presents a series of personal stories and principles that have empowered countless individuals to achieve remarkable success. The book is filled with inspiring narratives from a diverse range of people, including government officials, technologists, entertainers, athletes, academics, artists, and business leaders, all of whom have applied the principles outlined in the book to their lives. These stories teach readers how to exercise intentionality and take small, boundary-pushing actions that build confidence and diminish fear.
One of the standout qualities of Passion Struck is its rich storytelling, which adds a human touch and creates an emotional connection with readers from the beginning. The book seamlessly blends personal anecdotes with practical lessons, making the content relatable and engaging. For instance, one of the most memorable stories revolves around Steve Jobs and the concept of being “right by being alone.” When the music industry initially dismissed Jobs’ vision for the iPod, his persistence eventually led to the creation of Apple Music and other online music services, transforming the industry forever. This story and many others illustrate the power of perseverance and visionary thinking.
John also shares invaluable insights from his diverse professional experiences, including his time in the military and cybersecurity, his role as a CIO at Dell, and his journey as an entrepreneur. These insights are presented through smart and intriguing concepts, such as “fear confronter,” “mission angler,” and “perspective harnesser.” His use of metaphors and analogies effectively conveys the book’s messages. For example, the “metaphorical mosquito” is used to describe emotionally manipulative individuals who compromise boundaries—an analogy that vividly illustrates the importance of protecting one’s personal space and integrity. This book is not just a collection of theoretical essays; it actively engages readers with a variety of interactive elements. It includes actionable exercises, a well-structured framework, and even QR codes that provide additional insights and resources. These elements enhance the reading experience and encourage readers to apply the lessons to their own lives. The chapter-ending exercises are particularly thoughtful, serving as both a summary and a prompt for deeper reflection.
Passion Struck is an ideal read for those eager to pursue their passions and achieve their dream lives. By exploring topics such as meditation, self-awareness, psychology, and entrepreneurship, the book equips readers with the tools they need to embark on a journey of success and fulfillment. John R. Miles reminds us of the importance of listening to our hearts and following our passions—qualities that no AI can ever replace.
Pages: 399 | ASIN : B0CGS248NR
Zeke Comes Out of His Shell
Zeke Comes Out of His Shell is a heartwarming children’s book that tells the story of Zeke, a shy young hermit crab living in the tidepools along the sunny coast of Southern California. Zeke, who prefers the safety of his shell over the adventure of the world outside, is swept away by a storm and finds himself far from home. Through this unexpected journey, Zeke not only finds his way back but also learns the value of friendship, courage, and stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
One of the first things that struck me about this book was the vivid imagery Hershenson uses to bring the coastal setting to life. The descriptions of the beach, the tidepools, and the ocean are not only beautifully written but also help young readers immerse themselves in Zeke’s world. The author’s ability to create a sense of place is impressive, and it’s easy to visualize the colorful underwater scenes and the diverse creatures that Zeke encounters on his journey. The character development in this book is also notable. Zeke starts as a timid, reclusive hermit crab, but as the story progresses, he evolves into a brave and sociable character who learns to trust others and embrace new experiences. Hershenson does an excellent job of portraying Zeke’s internal struggles, particularly his fear of the unknown and his hesitation to interact with others. These themes are universal and relatable, making Zeke’s journey not just a physical adventure but also an emotional one. The moment when Zeke finally sings for his new friends is particularly touching, symbolizing his growth and newfound confidence. I also appreciated the underlying message of the story, which encourages children to step out of their comfort zones and make new friends. The book handles these themes with a gentle touch, making them accessible to young readers without being didactic. The friendships Zeke forms with Jay, Maisy, and Harry are heartwarming and show that even the most unlikely companions can become the best of friends.
Zeke Comes Out of His Shell is a delightful read that I would highly recommend to young children, particularly those who might be shy or hesitant to try new things. The book’s combination of engaging storytelling, relatable characters, and a positive message makes it a great choice for parents and educators looking to instill confidence and social skills in children. Shanti Hershenson has created a charming and memorable story that is sure to resonate with readers of all ages.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0D9N1JWSQ
Slaying Paradise: Legend of The Iron Warrior Vol. 1
What if God had a superhero tasked with battling Lucifer’s forces on Earth? You might expect that hero to be Jesus, but in Slaying Paradise: Legend of the Iron Warrior by T.V. Holiday, the role falls to someone entirely unexpected. Enter Travis Holiday, a recently deceased cop who finds himself resurrected and thrust into a divine mission. In this first installment of the series, Travis is plucked from the wreckage of his car and transported to another plane of existence by a man with a fluffy white beard. What follows is a journey through the bizarre world of Carnage Coast, where Travis must embrace his new identity as The Iron Warrior.
This book is steeped in superhero motifs, presenting a protagonist who is literally brought back from the dead and equipped with an arsenal of gadgets and powers to save humanity from the depths of Hell. Travis’s new life as The Iron Warrior includes a superhero bunker packed with high-tech gear, powers like Divine Eyes, and a formidable adversary in Luc, a villain determined to thwart his every move. The narrative reads like a blend of Christian allegory and a campy 80’s superhero movie, where themes of Faith, Love, and Justice are at the forefront. While Slaying Paradise may feel like a teenage fantasy brought to life, its campy tone adds a layer of entertainment that keeps the pages turning. The battles are engaging, the characters intriguing, and the concept of a heavenly battle for humanity offers a fresh take on traditional Christian themes. Though the characters might lack depth and the prose is straightforward, the story itself is captivating enough to provide an enjoyable escape.
If you’re looking for a unique spin on a world where the savior of humanity isn’t Jesus but a superhero-like figure known as The Iron Warrior, Slaying Paradise: Legend of the Iron Warrior is a great choice. Follow the resurrected cop Travis Holiday as he takes up the mantle of a divine warrior and confronts Luc in a battle to save humanity from the clutches of Hell. It’s a fun, campy, and thought-provoking take on what it means to be a warrior of God.
Pages: 280 | ASIN : B0D3ZNZNZD
Angelic Love
Jasper: Book One of The Guardian League follows a woman in a near-fatal car accident who is rescued by her celestial guardian, leading to a whirlwind romance between them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Well…actually…I just wanted to write a story with a guardian angel and a human female. The angel, upon meeting her, would find her enchanting, fascinating and he would want to know more about her. The ideas for the story came to me, afterward, and I started building who he was, who she was and how they met.
Car accidents happen, sadly, quite frequently. I have heard some wild stories about how people have survived some horrific accidents and attributed their safety and wellbeing from the accident to an otherworldly force and I thought hmm…. What if Jasper saved a female from a terrible car accident that would’ve changed her entire lifestyle if he didn’t intervene and help her. The story just blossomed from that.
Tatiana is a relatable character that readers will be drawn to and understand. What was the inspiration for the main character’s traits and dialogue?
For traits, it was actually me. Lol. Yeah, I know. I place a lot of myself in my books. As a curvy girl, I have insecurities and worries just like anyone else but maybe even more so because of my voluptuous size and how I have been perceived in the past or treated unjustly in the past, solely, because of the shape and size of my body. Back then, body positivity was not a thing people spoke about or even emphasized. I am so glad it exists now because some of the memories I have are pretty traumatic and no person should experience them.
I wanted to portray a female that was relatable, down to earth, genuine and kind. One that has problems just like anyone else but keeps trying. One that readers could side with and root for their happiness. I believe every woman deserves a beautiful, handsome, sexy male. Curvy girls, too! That’s what I wanted to write about.
For dialogue, I kind of just went with the flow. I wanted the interaction between Jasper and Tatiana to be perceived as natural and comfortable like a conversation between friends. Her responses to him are in direct response to what he says or conveys. She genuinely likes Jasper, but she has reservations because she has been burned in the past. Albeit he is an angel, and she has to keep reminding herself of this.
Still, it is kind of awestriking and fascinating that an angel would take to a human in a way humanity has never considered. I think that fact, in itself, can be a lot to swallow but it can also be wonderful to entertain.
In fantasy novels it’s easy to get carried away with the magical powers characters have. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
Well, Jasper really only needs to use his supernatural powers in instances where he has to. The Council, a group of five men that preside over the angel hierarchy, has their set rules. Doing anything that goes against those rules or is done without a purpose for humanity or for an angels’ own purposes or intentions is unlawful and can be punished. No angel wants to go up against the Council.
Jasper is an angel so showing some of his abilities was necessary in the book plus entertaining for the readers. It also gives a sense of realism to the story. Besides co-guarding a charge, he is also part of the voluntary group called The Guardian League so any time he is on a mission, he needs to use some of his supernatural abilities to assist humanity.
I wanted to tie in the world we live in and the angelic realm so mixing a bit of both without giving the majority of attention to one or the other was my intention when creating this story.
Can you tell us what the second book will be about and when it will be available for fans to purchase?
Centurion is the second book in the Guardian League series, and it is available now, for readers. Centurion is also my second favorite angel in the Guardian League. His story is a bit different because he is an angel that does not want to be tied down/committed to anyone. Because he is handsome (as all angels are) and women are drawn to him, he has no concerns when it comes to needing intimacy or companionship.
Yet, when he meets a beautiful human female at an art show, where he is guarding his charge, he begins to question his thoughts and ideas about human-angel relationships.
Centurion is known as the angel that enjoys “strong and hot things.” His mate and coffee are examples of two of those “things.” It is a fun, enjoyable read laced with humor, character growth and a beautiful happy ever after.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Single female seeks rare, coveted treasure.
That was the announcement Tatiana wanted to post.
A strong, loving, committed male partner was what she sought. What she found, instead, were several frogs and too many toads. Where was her elusive prince? Did he exist or did she miss her opportunity?
Jasper isn’t seeking a mate. His only intention is to rescue Tatiana from a near-fatal car accident and then go in pursuit of his next assignment. However, intent and reality don’t always coincide. Saving Tatiana altered his world and now he can’t leave. But making introductions and claiming her heart was not going to be easy. He has a secret he is forbidden to disclose.
As much as Jasper craves Tatiana, he can’t override her free will. In the end, whether being with him or not is her decision. Will Tatiana welcome the powerful being who adores her and only wants to protect her, forever? Or will his secret be too much for her to accept?
Reader Advisory: A loving, protective angel intent on winning his enchanting, curvy, human weaves a fun tale interlaced with flirtatious foreplay and sensual, passionate moments.
PUBLISHER NOTE: Paranormal Romance. Angels and Demons. Rubenesque. 90,000 words. All characters depicted in this work of fiction are 18 years of age or older.
Courage
The Timepiece Legacy is a genre-crossing novel with elements of fantasy, Science Fiction, and romance as well. Did you start writing with this in mind, or did this happen organically as you were writing?
When writing this novel I planned to have the three elements of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Romance as elements to the story. I felt it would make an exciting story and welcomed the challenge of marrying all three into the themes, which ended up a fun adventure as a writer. Many of the directions the story went developed organically. I’m more a panzer than an outliner and sometimes I don’t know where the story is going until I can visualize it on my internal movie screen, so to speak.
Bodhi realizes all his Gram’s wild stories are actually real once he is thrust into the world of time travel and has to rethink reality and his future. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
The ideals that drove Bodhi’s development were his unconditional love for his daughter, Cassie. He’d do anything for her, even sacrifice his own life as any good father would. Bodhi was also devoted to Gram, the only mother he knew, and her welfare and he strived to be a good son. Bodhi believed in being a good and loyal friend. He’s loyal to a fault as we see in his relationship with his ex-wife and his devotion to the new love he discovers in the past. He isn’t perfect but he strives to right a wrong and reconcile his differences with the people in his life and he is fiercely protective of them. Everything is a competition to him, stemming from his background as a former athlete and this causes him to be a bit too reactive at times, straining his personal relationships.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes most important to me were family and the complexities of those relationships. Love, and the many forms love takes that lead to sacrifice, forgiveness, and redemption. Courage, to make difficult decisions and to face one’s deepest fears, and the courage to let go and start over.
Can you tell us what the second book will be about and when it will be available for fans to purchase?
The second book titled, “The Timepiece Paradox” is currently available on Amazon in eBook, paperback, and audiobook, and on Barnes and Noble in eBook.
SYNOPSIS: Cassie McMullin arrives at Gram’s beach house in northern California nine years after her accidental travels through time with her father, Bodhi McMullin. Still traumatized by the experience and going through a painful divorce, she seeks the solace and peace of Gram’s beach house. A place she loved as a child. A visit to her dad and his wife, Elena, is just the break she needs.
When Cassie searches through Gram’s diary and old love letters, she discovers a disturbing letter from the distant past. When she attempts to use the timepiece to find the answers, it suddenly propels her to terrifying and unknown destinations.
Lost in time, with no way home, she is at the mercy of the ancient relic. But is the timepiece the cursed object Gram describes in her diary, or does it possess divine powers to guide the possessor to discover profound mysteries and hidden truths of the universe and themselves?
Cassie will find the answers soon enough. But the answers may be darker and more dangerous that she could have ever imagined. If Cassie fails to overcome the obstacles that destiny has set before her or solve the paradox of her journey, she will be lost in time forever.
Will Cassie discover the answers she so desperately seeks? Will she find the love her heart has yearned for all of her life? Her fate lies in her own hands and her ability to unravel the enigma of the timepiece and the mysteries of the universe.
The third book in the series title, “The Tempus Glass” will be available in the fall and will tell the story of Elena Lozano, Bodhi’s new love at the end of book one. It will explore her backstory as a spy for the Union army during the Civil War and how she winds up in the early 1920s in Nogales, Arizona, where Bodhi eventually finds her and falls in love with her. Stay tuned.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Gram gifts Bodhi a mysterious and enigmatic timepiece after she drops a bombshell that his grandfather isn’t his biological grandfather. She claims that Bodhi is the grandson of a captain in the Revolutionary War and the timepiece is a mystical device that allows her to traverse through time. As a physician, he questions her mental faculties. But unforeseen events push Bodhi to the brink of his sanity and the possibility that Gram wasn’t crazy after all.
Bodhi finds himself thrust into a whirlwind of uncertainty, where he encounters a rare love that transcends the bounds of time. Yet, in this unfamiliar realm, he’s forced to make heart-wrenching choices that could shatter the lives of those he holds dear. However, a new, unthinkable crisis looms on the horizon: He and Cassie are swallowed and separated in time by the terrifying jaws of a spiraling wormhole. With the clock ticking, Bodhi must embark on a desperate journey to rescue his only child, risking everything in a race against the unforgiving hands of destiny.
The Timepiece Legacy is the first book of a trilogy that sets the stage for a wild and thrilling adventure charged with emotion, romance, and edge-of-your-seat action that will keep the pages turning. It’s the kind of novel fans of Kevin D. Miller have come to expect and thoroughly enjoy.
Living Together Harmoniously
Come Home, Papa Jed! follows a family of bears and woodland creatures working together to search for Papa Jed, who did not return as expected from a fishing trip. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for Come Home, Papa Jed! came from a memorable experience my husband Joe and I had some time ago. We visited a secluded fly-fishing resort nestled deep in the woods, where we were the only guests for two nights at a beautiful mansion with large, elegantly decorated rooms, including our own, which featured charming black bear-themed decor. While Joe embarked on a day-long fishing excursion with a guide, I decided to explore the estate. Despite my initial apprehension about walking alone in the woods, I was able to release my fears entirely and fully enjoy the experience. I spent hours wandering through the secluded acres and encountered an array of wildlife, one species after another, that seemed to welcome me into their world. As the sun began to set, I had a slightly anxious wait for Joe’s return, and I was so relieved and happy to see him come back safely after his adventure. The entire experience was so enchanting that I documented it for myself with a poem and photos I’d taken that day. That journal entry eventually blossomed into Come Home, Papa Jed!, a sweet tale where woodland creatures join forces to find Papa Jed and bring him safely back to his family.
One of the highlights of your children’s book is how you captured the emotions of the family, both their anxiety and fear and their relief and joy. What was your approach to writing the interactions between characters?
When writing the interactions between the characters, I aimed to capture tender and genuine moments that reflect the natural world around us. I wanted to highlight the emotions of anxiety, fear, relief, and joy in a way that resonates deeply with readers. Observing wildlife, I’ve seen their fierce loyalty, emotions, and the hard work they put into staying together and caring for their young—qualities that mirror the best of our own and that I find deeply moving. In my book, these scenes are crafted to reveal the gentle and cooperative side of nature, emphasizing the beauty and harmony that can exist even among diverse creatures.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
In Come Home, Papa Jed!, I aimed to convey several key ideas. One of the main themes is the beauty of the creatures that inhabit the Smoky Mountains, which I wanted to present through a lens that reflects my deep appreciation for them. Another important idea is the significance of family among animals, which I’ve observed throughout my life. To illustrate peaceful coexistence, I drew inspiration from my observations of the animals that visit my property, which I often watch through one of my security cameras. It’s fascinating to see foxes, skunks, raccoons, and deer all at a short distance from one another, peacefully sharing the same space despite their differences. This concept of living together harmoniously highlights the broader themes of cooperation and unity that I wished to convey in the story. As a gal from Brooklyn, I hope this story and its images reach kids in urban areas similar to where I grew up, giving them a taste of nature’s beauty and perhaps inspiring them to care about animals and visit a place like the Great Smoky Mountains.
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?
Yes, Come Home, Papa Jed! is the first book in my broader series, “Animal Adventures of the Smoky Mountains,” specifically under the subseries title “Bear Adventures in the Smoky Mountains.” Fans can soon expect additional adventures with Jed and his family. Currently in the works are a Thanksgiving adventure and a Christmas quest, with hopes of releasing them in time for the respective seasons. Following the “Bear Adventures,” the series will expand to include other subseries focused on different animal families and their unique stories within the Smokies. I’m eager to hear suggestions from my readers about which animals they’d like to see featured next!
Author Links: Goodreads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Ansaki Devout
In a world dominated by corruption, where the powerful exploit the weak and human life is disregarded, the Ansaki Devout emerges as a force of chaos. The murder of a corrupt politician sets off a chain of events that transforms ordinary individuals into anonymous heroes, determined to upend the status quo. At the center of this turmoil is a gifted inspector, tasked with tracking down the killer before the situation spirals beyond control. Ansaki Devout by Paul Ogarra is a compelling work of fiction that follows Juan Betardo Solis and a cast of complex characters as they navigate a society on the brink of collapse.
Ogarra’s writing is both thought-provoking and richly detailed, skillfully weaving together a tapestry of interconnected stories that build into a grand and intricate narrative. However, the novel’s shifting perspectives can sometimes be disorienting, making it challenging to keep track of the numerous characters and plot threads. Despite this, the depth and significance of the story remain powerful and impactful. The story doesn’t shy away from the gray areas, making the reader question what it means to be a hero or a villain. This complexity adds layers to the narrative, making it more than just a straightforward thriller. Ogarra’s depiction of the inspector’s journey is both engaging and filled with tension. Watching him piece together the puzzle amid the heavy political and social backdrop was one of the highlights of the book for me. The way Ogarra connects the personal struggles of the characters with the larger, corrupt world they inhabit is particularly compelling. It’s a narrative that resonates on multiple levels, offering both a thrilling plot and a critique of the power dynamics at play in society.
Ansaki Devout is a complex and thought-provoking thriller that will appeal to readers who enjoy diving deep into morally ambiguous characters and intricate storylines. While it’s not a light read, it offers a rewarding experience for those willing to engage with its layered narrative. I would highly recommend this book to fans of political thrillers and anyone interested in stories that challenge conventional notions of right and wrong. Paul Ogarra has crafted a story that lingers in the mind, and I’m eager to see what he brings us next.
Pages: 281 | ASIN : B0CW1G25CV
LITERARY TITAN 