[BOOK REVIEW] Bone Dry by Janet Taylor-Perry is an engaging, layered read that will keep you turning the page

Author Janet Taylor-Perry knows how to tell a compelling story. 

I was first introduced to her through her book LUCKY THIRTEEN, and since then I have come to expect the unexpected with her work. BONE DRY is definitely another example of that. 

We see the return of Laura Beth Copeland, navigating not just a mystery but her own personal life as well. When the two collide we see her entering a world where things are not as they seem---and people are drawn into situations that can not just threaten their sanity but their lives as well. 

This book also includes a lot about identity and how people are perceived and treated. I love the way Janet talks about this real-world threat that some face, and how she is able to navigate that world and help others do the same. 

BONE DRY is so much more than a murder mystery. It's a book of doing your part to help others, make a difference and compact wickedness with justice. 

If you're looking for a layered book that gives you relatable characters and a strong storyline, this book is for you. 

Get BONE DRY on Amazon . 

[BOOK REVIEW] The Bulls of Bashan by Jodi Lea Stewart

 It's been a lot of fun to see how author Jodi Lea Stewart takes her love of storytelling, history and adventure and wrap them into each book. That is definitely the case with her latest offering called THE BULLS OF BASHAN. 

In typical Jodi Lea fashion, we get characters that are dealing with the consequences of their choices and the decisions about life and what matters---along with doing something that can make a difference in the world. I love how the character Savannah and others come together not just to do what they believe is right, but get to understand each other even with their many differences. 

There is also the meatier part of the book that really mirrors much of what we see in the world today. In the face of uncertainty, fear and chaos, who will be willing to stand up for others---knowing what it can cost? That is a question the characters have to grapple with as do we, the reader, as we think of the strength and courage needed to stand up for what you know is right. 

A book that showcases the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of strength in numbers, THE BULLS OF BASHAN reminds us of the strength we all have to tackle whatever may come our way. 

Get your copy of THE BULLS OF BASHAN on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] POST OAK: Quanah Parker, The Comanche, and the Mission by Tina Siemens

With books like SEMINOLE and THE LITTLE SANDALS THAT COULD, author and historian Tina Siemens has shared not just her love of history but her family's example of perseverance, even in difficult times. 

With her latest book POST OAK: Quanah Parker, The Comanche, and the Mission we're able to go back in time to a period of war, mistrust and the actions of individuals that would reverberate for decades to come. 

POST OAK is the story of how tragedy came to the Parker family, and in the midst of that the journey of vengeance, survival and understanding. I love how Tina is able to make us think of life for the Indians and the settlers, and the decisions they made that would affect not just their lives but those to come. 

Tina also shows that the price of war and retribution is not just to human life. It has to do with the land and all that live on it, man and beast. 

A story that can be difficult at times to understand but is important to read, POST OAK stands out as a book about not giving up hope and fighting for what you believe is right, no matter the costs.

Get your copy on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] POWER OF THE ZIP by Jill Kamp Aaronson is less about what you SAY and more about who you ARE

 We've all heard the saying ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS---and in the newest addition to Jill Kamp Aaronson's POWER OF THE ZIP books, I found that to be the central theme.

POWER OF THE ZIP: Stop Talking- Start Listening shows the reader not just the importance of what we say. It dives into the power of sometimes not saying anything and just allowing how we respond be the answer to the situation. I love that the book reminds us that there is no blueprint to EVERY scenario we face, but there are things we can do to make sure that we not only let people feel heard but SEEN, too. 

Though Jill is known for what she has been able to share in the workplace, this book really is a guide for all aspects of life, showcasing the importance of making POWER OF THE ZIP a lifestyle choice rather than something we attempt to turn on and off. Whether we're talking about dealing with friends, family or those we work with, the important thing is to treat each individual as the unique person they are so they know you are not just listening but hearing them. 

Filled with great examples from her own life and even some Biblical references that will hit home for some readers, POWER OF THE ZIP: Stop Talking-Start Listening gives you guidelines to not just make what you say more impactful. It will make your LIFE more impactful as well. 

Get your copy on Amazon.  

[BOOK REVIEW] Hold Your Head Up, Princess by Dr. Velma Bagby

There is nothing like recognizing and acknowledging your own value and worth. 

We live in a world where not everyone will see the gift and treasure that we are, but that doesn't mean we should ever dim our light so others can't see the light we carry. 

In HOLD YOUR HEAD UP, PRINCESS Dr. Velma Bagby shows how at different points in her life there were those who didn't see her worth or value. She was then presented with a choice: Would she be the person her parents had told her that she was or would she dim that light so others would not be offended?

We're able to see how Dr. Velma embraced her gifts and her talents and the doors that opened for her in the process. The book also reminds us that regardless of our age, we all need the reminder to hold our heads up, walking confidently in our calling. 

In the back of the book we are able to get activities that the reader can do alone or with others, but we also get the assurance that if we walk in our worthiness and embrace who we are great things can come our way. HOLD YOUR HEAD UP, PRINCESS is a testament that who you are matters. You just have to walk in your own authenticity and know that everything will work out.

Get HOLD YOUR HEAD UP, PRINCESS on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] Beauty Beyond the Tears : Finding Strength After Loss by Kate Thurman

 Having known Kate Thurman for a while now, I was so proud of her sharing a deeply personal part of her journey with the world in this book---and I think we are all better because of it. 

Beauty Beyond the Tears: Finding Strength After Loss is not just about trying to find understanding and hope when tragedy strikes. It's about being honest about where you are, what you feel and knowing that through it all God is there. Even when it doesn't feel like it.

Kate and her husband Chris' experience is theirs, but it is also that of so many. That is why I am glad the world can read it and see themselves and find the peace they have been looking for. It's not an easy road. It's not something that will change overnight, but BEAUTY BEYOND THE TEARS shows there IS HOPE. There IS HEALING. And through everything that we go through in life this book reminds us not to lose faith. You can find not only strength after loss. You can rediscover yourself and your purpose, too.

Get your copy on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] Seth's Cross by Jeff Randall

I've read a lot of historical fiction before, but nothing like this. 

SETH'S CROSS by Jeff Randall takes us into the life of an individual in the bible and imagines what his journey was like before his painful death alongside Jesus Christ. 

The character Seth represents so much when it comes to understanding your own value and how you don't have to let the sins of the father become the sins of the son (or daughter). We're able to see him wrestle with not just his own value and worth, but the miracles and impact Jesus is having---and a message of hope that seems so far from what Seth can expect for himself.

I love the way Jeff weaves through the thoughts of Seth as he tries to make sense of what he is seeing and hearing, while at the same time trying to drown out the programming of his father.

Whether you're a reader of scripture or not, I think you'll read SETH'S CROSS with not just a love of the story but a realization that we have all been Seth at some point: feeling lost, misunderstood and unworthy. The question comes, though, will we remember who we were created to be before it is too late?

Beautifully delivered and a book that lingers with the reader after you finish turning the pages, SETH'S CROSS is one of the best books I've read in 2025. 

Get your copy of SETH'S CROSS on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] Using life lessons as a guide, Ally Dalsimer reminds us IT'S OKAY NOT TO BE FABULOUS EVERY DAY!

by Cyrus Webb

There is so much pressure on us at times to get everything "right". In IT'S OKAY NOT TO BE FABULOUS EVERY DAY! author Ally Dalsimer is giving us permission to re-evaluate what we are doing, why we are doing it, and what we really want as a result.

I love this book because it is full of messages that we can just pick up, digest, think about and then try to take action on. Ally uses some of her own experiences as a guide, but there is also the reminder that everyone has a different path. In fact, sometimes the reason why things aren't working out for us is because we have stopped listening to that inner voice and exchanged it for that of someone else.

When we're able to be honest about what we want and make a concerted effort to do it, we can be a lot more fulfilled and less judgmental when it comes to ourselves. That means we have to give ourselves some grace and remember that as the title of the book alludes to not every day is going to be a slam dunk.

Authentic, bold and presented in love, Ally Dalsimer was the perfect author for this book---and you will do well to pick it up for yourself. 

Get your copy on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] Chasing Different by Colette R. Harrell

 

When it comes to writing fiction that brings you in and makes you feel a part of the story, few can do it like Colette R. Harrell. As she begins her new series LOVING DIFFERENT she kicks it off with characters that are flawed, relatable and in many ways everything you HOPE you would be in trying circumstances. 

CHASING DIFFERENT brings us into the worlds of Deacon Everette and Nia Lewis: two individuals who don's seem as though they would be "right" together but the circumstances they are thrust into show that they couldn't be more compatible. In the middle of literally racing against time and running for their lives, the two main characters must learn to trust each other and themselves if they want to survive. 

Along the way they are guided by the words and actions of other trusted individuals that help to steer them as they not just try to expose The Council---but let others see the dangers of power when it is used against those it's meant to protect. 

As I have come to expect for Colette, this book takes many twists and turns. For some it will be seen as a romance. To others it will be a thriller. Still others will see it as an indictment of the world we find ourselves currently living in. For me it's a Colette R. Harrell book, and that means to expect the unexpected and then some. 

CHASING DIFFERENT is not just about embracing all that you are. It's about uniting together so that our differences and strengths can work together for good. 

Get your copy of CHASING DIFFERENT on Amazon. 

BOOK REVIEW: Let It Go (The Journal) by Lakeasha Williams

All of us know what it's like to be weighed down by the challenges and trauma of life. We also know that in order to become who we were meant to be, we have to CHOOSE to move forward. That is what the 30 day journal LET IT GO by Lakeasha Williams helps you achieve. 

Giving you prompts that allow you to see where you are, what actions need to be taken and gives you steps leading you in that direction, the book is sure to help you not just reach your goals but remind you that you are worthy of doing so.

With questions like 'What do you want your life to feel like?', 'When was the last time you gave yourself permission to be still?' and 'How does holding on to the past block your growth?' we're able to be honest with ourselves and take the necessary steps to not just rise but THRIVE.

Ready to excel in your life and reclaim your power? LET IT GO gives you the tools to do it. 

Get your copy of LET IT GO (The Journal) on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] With THE GOLD ROSE author Jodi Lea Stewart shows that doing what is right can be hard but needed

 When it comes to right and wrong there can be no limit put on choosing wisely. In author Jodi Lea Stewart's newest book THE GOLD ROSE we are able to see that people over the years have had to make the difficult choices---and deal with the consequences. 

Once again we are able to see Stewart's abilities to transport us to a time that may seem different than the world we know, but it includes people that are relatable and real. THE GOLD ROSE is about conscience and power, and what happens when they are not used properly. With Charlotte we get a look at what made her who she is and where are desire to do what is right and make amends where she can comes from. Will it be a enough to save her and others? That is part of what we see as the book unfolds with action, challenges and revelations.

Taking readers back in time and around the world, Jodi Lea Stewart's THE GOLD ROSE delivers another page-turner full of her signature heart, soul, and adventure. Get ready to be drawn in and carried away as the characters deal with love, loss, and the search for something more. A truly satisfying read.

[BOOK REVIEW] Randy Richardson's HAVANNA HANGOVER is the kind of book you can enjoy any time of year

 

Whether you're looking for a great summer read or something that will keep you engaged and guessing, then HAVANNA HANGOVER is the kind of book you want to add to your reading list. 

Author Randy Richardson is someone I have gotten to enjoy over the years, and this latest book shows his range of writing a mystery and love story mixed with intrigue. Through Tanner and Jackson we see how friendships can change and when put under test the things that can be exposed---sometimes with deadly consequences. 

The way the book unfolds allows us to better understand Tanner and though we might not always agree with his choices, we can see how he learns to fight for what matters to him. Will he get a happy ending? What does that even mean? Those are just a couple of the questions you'll find yourself asking. 

HAVANA HANGOVER is a book you'll enjoy and want to talk about. You can't ask for more than that. 

[BOOK REVIEW] Cornelia Maude Spelman's A FOOT IS NOT A FISH! reminds us that saying something doesn't make it true

 We live in a time when the Truth has become subjective to some. Now that is not to say that we are not all entitled to our opinions, but that doesn't mean that just because we think or say something that it's automatically true.

This is hard enough for adults to sometime grapple with, so when it comes to children it's great to know there are books like this that can help them reason on what is true and what is not.

A FOOT IS NOT A FISH! by Cornelia Maude Spelman tackles the truth about things around us, as well as the things that are not true. It's done is a fun way that kids  can relate to---and will create some real discussion points with adults in discussing the book.

It's almost like explaining the difference between a truth and a lie---however, the way Cornelia does it is to show that just because you WANT something to be a certain way, doesn't mean that it is.

A great book to add to your kid's reading nook or to share with schools. It's entertaining and educational. Something that is definitely needed at this time. 

Get your copy on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] With Heart of a Warrior author Pele Hunkin shares her pain, her courage and resilience

 

by Cyrus Webb

Life can have many challenges. What matters is what we do when they come our way. Will they cause us to give up or will we find the strength to keep going?

In HEART OF A WARRIOR author Pele Hunkin shares her journey, full of highs and lows---and what has helped her to not just survive but thrive. 

She talks about the loss of loved ones, the loss of relationships and the rediscovering of her faith. Through her challenges she is able to learn lessons that also speak to us, giving us exactly what we need when the chips are down.

Pele writes this in the book: "Know that you are more than enough and more than a conqueror. I want to encourage anyone going through any life challenges to be grateful for the experience. Understand that the choice is yours to be better and not bitter with what life is throwing at you. When you look for the positive in any situation, God will offer it to you in abundance."

HEART OF A WARRIOR is the kind of book that will motivate you during the down times and allow you to see that regardless of what comes your way or what others think, you can achieve things that might appear impossible.

Get your copy on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] With ADVERSITY FOR SALE Jeezy shares the cost due for what you want in life

 

by Cyrus Webb

For those looking for success tips from a proven winner then Adversity for Sale by Jeezy is a book you need to read. 

The book released in 2023 and is STILL an Amazon bestseller today, showing that it is resonating with readers and for good reason.

Jeezy is able to share not just the lessons learned but the way he has used his adversities in life as fuel for the life he wanted for himself. We're able to see not just the determination but the willingness to go for it even when it seems the odds are against him. 

A few takeaways: 1) Sometimes you have to step out of a situation to get a look at the bigger picture. 2)  Not everyone can come along on the journey with you. To reach where you are meant to go, you have to sometimes let something go in the process. 3) Know your strengths. For Jeezy his clarity of vision and purpose have been his superpower. Find yours, and there's nothing you can't do.

Adversity for Sale is a book that will remind you of what's possible, while urging you to take the risks needed to push forward towards your inner greatness. 

Get ADVERSITY FOR SALE on Amazon. 

[Book Review] FLIPPING BOXCARS by Cedric Kyles aka Cedric "The Entertainer" is a must read!

 

by Cyrus Webb

This book is so much more than I could have expected. 

We all know Cedric "The Entertainer" as someone who is able to make us laugh and enjoy ourselves. Now he brings his talents to his first novel FLIPPING BOXCARS. Released in hardcover in September 2023, the paperback released in September 2024 with a new cover. 

In it we meet Floyd "Babe" Boyce, someone who is able to make us root for him even though all his decisions might not be above board. We're able to look under the hood and get to see the man for who he is, what makes him tick and more importantly his why in life.

What happens, though, when all he has and wants is threatened? Will he double down or fold? That is what the reader will discover as you race through the pages. 

There are many surprises that come along the way, from the memorable characters to the situations that allow us to see Babe in his element, operating in confidence while always wanting more for himself and those he loves. 

What readers are left with is an entertaining read by someone who knows how to entertain. FLIPPING BOXCARS by Cedric Kyles aka Cedric "The Entertainer" is a must read. 

Get your copy of FLIPPING BOXCARS on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] Bill Bellamy's TOP BILLIN' shows what helped him get to the top and stay there today

by Cyrus Webb 

When you hear the name Bill Bellamy we all have our favorite movie or tv show that he has appeared in. You might also have caught him on stage. In TOP BILLIN' we are able to get a look at the man: how he became who he is, what helped him believe in his gift and what it's been like to learn lessons along the way.

It wasn't always an easy path for the talented entertainer. He shares his struggles and what it's been like to define himself in his career and in life. He also gives us a glimpse at his personal side, navigating relationships and fatherhood. 

This is the kind of book that is sure to inspire and motivate the reader, regardless of your career. TOP BILLIN' gives us a deep dive into the man that has made us laugh over the years----sharing what it takes to get to the top and stay there. 

Get your copy of TOP BILLIN' on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] In SHARE MY LIFE Kem gives a glimpse at the life behind the fame

by Cyrus Webb

 We have gotten to know Kem over the years for his great songs, but in SHARE MY LIFE he takes us behind the success to the struggles, highs and lows and road that led him where he is today.

Whether you're a fan of his music or someone who loves a great comeback story, this book will speak to you. I love the honesty, the way he talks about the dark places of his life that could have destroyed him and all he worked for---and how his faith helped to guide him to heights that few have known.

Probably the most powerful part of the book is how we are able to see how his appreciation for his success and place today is only possible because he recognizes how far God has brought him. By relying on his Creator and not on his own abilities, Kem is able to ascend to places that may have appeared impossible in the past.

Revealing and inspiring, SHARE MY LIFE is the kind of book you need to read to remind you of what is possible. That way we can learn as Kem did that the best is yet to come. 

Get yoru copy of SHARE MY LIFE on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] Lost your way? Dr. Teresa A. Smith's TRANSFORMATION: The Bounce Back helps you get back on track

 

No matter who many lessons we believe we have learned or how far we have come in life, there are times when things happen that remind us there is more to learn. 

Dr. Teresa A. Smith is someone I  have followed for some time, and though she has overcome so much and thriving, her new book TRANSFORMATION: The Bounce Back shows that even she is still learning the important lessons of life.

The book shows that even as a bestselling author and motivational speaker Teresa is still having to take her own advice. And when she doesn't, it leads her spiraling down a path that threatened everything she has worked for.

"I had subtle warnings, but Ignored them," she writes in the book. "When we consistently ignore the physical warning, the body adjusts, and the signs that once caught our attention no longer do."

Facing uncertainty, however, she realized what she had to do, and that is what she shares in The Bounce Back, letting our do the work that she is doing so we can get to a place or healing and wholeness again.

Great for those looking to make changes in their lives and commit to themselves again, TRANSFORMATION: The Bounce Back helps you get back on track if you have lost your way. 

Get your copy on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] In FROM SCRATCH David Moscow reminds us of the human contribution to what we eat

 We do it all the time: go out to eat or buy food and cook it at home. How many times, though, have we thought about how we got that food or the humans involved in making it possible.

In FROM SCRATCH David Moscow takes his own curiosity and love of food around the United States and the world to share that story. He lets us into the jobs needed to get food to the consumer and the cost involved for the planet and the workers. You can't help but look at the process in a different way after reading this book. David sees up close and personal what it takes to keep the food chain moving---and the role all of us can play to make sure those involved are taken care of and appreciated for what they do.

The book teaches you about food you may not have personally experienced before but may become curious about. It also allows you to see how the seemingly "simple" things we take for granted have many components and hands involved to bring it to us.

A book that is engaging and educational, FROM SCRATCH paints a picture of the human contribution to what we eat.

Get FROM SCRATCH on Amazon.