Phoboudenopanophobia by Dan Wetmore

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

Penning a previous book, My Mother’s Gentle Unbecoming, about her descent into dementia, got me contemplating a similar fate, so I wrote this volume as an extended last letter to my family, sort of an “epitaph in absentia”; hoped insurance against having last feelings go unexpressed, in the event the body outlives the being. An exploration of the emotional toll taken on the leaving and the left behind, the title is a braid of the three fears which predominate: fear of having nothing (Oudenophobia); fear—at a point when all is unknown (and the unknown is easily alarming)—of everything (Panophobia); and, as the product of those two, a fear of being reduced to a constant state of dread, i.e., fear itself (Phobophobia).

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Poetry—Poetry Book

Number of Pages: 75

Word Count: 8,000

Always Remembering by Kathy Kasunich

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

Based on a real-life couple's experience, Always Remembering” intricately weaves together the heartfelt love story of Mike and Helen, amid the turmoil and battles of World War II. Their blossoming love, abruptly interrupted by the war, thrusts them into a world of separation, uncertainties, loneliness, and the relentless struggle to preserve their bond. Mike confronts the brutal realities of war, while Helen grapples with a domineering mother and a meddling family that strain their relationship. Intertwined within the narrative are unedited letters penned by Mike to Helen, signed with the touching sentiment: “Always Remembering, Never Forgetting, Loving You Forever, Mike.” These letters and the nostalgic memories they evoke become their anchor amidst the chaos, empowering them to endure and cherish the person who captured their hearts.

From the tranquil streets of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the harrowing battlegrounds of the 42nd Rainbow Division, the pangs of heartache, and the destruction of war resonates deeply. In a story told through both of their perspectives, Mike, an outgoing, confident medic, and Helen, a diffident, humble grocer, bare their souls as they navigate situations beyond their control.

“Always Remembering”, seen through the lens of two ordinary souls is a testament to enduring love, unveiling the emotional toll and unseen collateral damage that war imposes on the human spirit. Echoing the essence of Capra’s stirring narratives, this captivating tale celebrates the resilience of love and the powerful strength found within treasured memories.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Romance

Number of Pages: 356

Word Count: 98,000

Magical Morning Moments: Awakening to Love and Light by Wanda W. Jerome and Jasmine Tritten

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

Heartfelt poems channeled through spiritual inspiration and personal messages of love and light accompany photographs of enchanting New Mexico's beautiful sunrises over the Sandia Mountains. Included are glimpses into the natural environment of New Mexico – the flora and fauna – that make it a special destination for nature lover and spiritual seekers.


This collaboration came about magically through a shared appreciation of their experiences during morning meditations. Weaving a tapestry of poems and photographs, the authors hope to lift the spirits of souls in need of love, light and joy.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Artistic—Pictorial/Coffee Table

Number of Pages: 108

Word Count: 3,260

The Tall Poppy Syndrome - The Joy of Cutting Others Down by Douglas Garland

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Author's Synopsis

The Tall Poppy Syndrome (TPS) is a metaphor describing seeing a field of poppies and cutting down the tall ones so that all are equal. This traditional definition applies to someone who is of distinction and is cut down by an envious person. This syndrome is not well known in America. A hypothesis was our individualism prevented it. The author found examples in most parts of the world in all periods. After his world review, the author concluded that TPS was prevalent in America but unrecognized. 

The author dissects TPS into cutters and cuttees. He describes the vices found in cutters who cut people down. He also describes vices in tall poppies which justified their being cut down. By doing this the viewer can determine who is the guilty person. It also allows self-reflection and self-awareness of the reader. 

The author also divides TPS into peer-to-peer and public. Peer-to-peer TPS involves one's tribe and is driven by envy. It includes families, schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces. These people are common folk and need not be tall. Public TPS involves true tall poppies and are justifiably cut down for their egregious behavior.  

The book is a world history lesson viewed through the TPS lens. Readers will understand the bad behavior, both of cutter and cuttee, which drives TPS. With the new behavioral understanding, the reader improves his self-awareness through reflection.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Reference

Number of Pages: 318

Word Count: 100,000

http://douggarland.com

Shrouded In Words: A Collection of Poetry by Patricia Qaiyyim

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

Sometimes, we use words to say so much about ourselves; at other times, we use words to say so little about ourselves; and sometimes, we use words to hide behind and say nothing at all about ourselves.

In those times, when we are shrouded in words, we are hiding our true selves from those closest to us and even from ourselves. We walk around shrouded in words like, “I’m fine,” “Things are good,” “I am not upset,” and my favorite, “No, nothing’s wrong.”

In this collection, I have decided to remove my shroud and use my words to share my thoughts, my hopes, my feelings, and the glimpses I get from those around me. The words I have used will give you a glimpse into who I am, what I think, and what I want for myself and those around me. More importantly, they encourage you to remove some of the shrouds you might be hiding behind.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Poetry—Poetry Book

Number of Pages: 103

Word Count: 11,978

WWII Letters and Records of Ellsworth A. Westgate by Frank Westgate

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Author's Synopsis

WWII Letters that where written and sent home to Ellsworth Grandparents Some our more readable that others. I took Dads Letters page by page in order and tried to type out in an alternate letter as close as possible to the original. Both will be attached in order.

Genre(s): Memoir

Format(s): Soft cover


Chasing the Daylight. One Woman's Journey to Becoming a US Army Intelligence Officer by Joanna Rakowski

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

What is it like to belong to the world’s most powerful armed forces at the dawn of the 21st century? Does a military tale have to be about the soldiers going to war? You’ll find out here.

Joanna is a fragile, romantic, former ballerina. After a painful rift with her beloved friend and mentor of many years, she joins the U.S. Army. Her dream is to become an Intelligence Officer. She faces a formidable task, but she embarks on a four-year journey to accomplish her goal.

Obsessed with a vision of darkness, Joanna pursues the light, her goal of being part of something bigger than herself. In her journey, often plagued by flashbacks of painful memories of a lost friendship, she conquers obstacles despite her physical shortcomings, discrimination, and abuse. It’s a coming-of-age story where Joanna transforms from a hopeless romantic into a soldier, as her responsibilities as an Intelligence Professional in the Army develop.

Chasing the Daylight is an account of Joanna’s four-year military service where her love for America, love for her husband, and love for her friend are seamlessly interwoven. The story whirls us into the center of the rigorous army training, and with the intricate details, transports us into the reality that only less than one percent of the U.S. population is experiencing.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Memoir/Biography

Number of Pages: 412

Word Count: 144000

Secrets of Ash by Josh Green

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

Josh Green is an award-winning journalist, fiction author, and editor whose work has appeared in Garden & Gun, Indianapolis Monthly, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Los Angeles Review, The Baltimore Review, and several anthologies. Secrets of Ash, his first novel, was inspired by two decades of reporting on U.S. military. His book of short stories, Dirtyville Rhapsodies, was hailed by Men’s Health as a “Best Book for the Beach” and was named a top 10 book of the year by Atlanta magazine. He lives with his wife and daughters in Atlanta.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Literary Fiction

Number of Pages: 287

Word Count: 83,000

Saigon Nights: The Elephant in the Room by David S. Lewis

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

This story follows Tom Grey, a Vietnam War Veteran and free-lance newspaper reporter, as he uncovers a smuggling ring that includes the trafficking of young women from Vietnam to the United States.The story begins in 1973 Los Angeles, and takes Grey back to Saigon, South Vietnam. It is a world fulll of treachery and deceit before there were cell phones or the Internet. It is a world where nearly everyone smokes.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Mystery/Thriller/Crime

Number of Pages: 259

Word Count: 72,647

The Night Swimmer by Michael Griffin

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Author's Synopsis

Michael Joyce got off on playing in his band, chasing girls and completing his Ph.D. In Psychology. Then the Vietnam War heated up. Drafted, commissioned as an officer, he soon found himself in the jungle taking a life at close range. Strangely, he didn't seem to mind, feeling nothing one way or another. He experienced the same innocent calm in subsequest kills, much the way a cheetah must after slaughtering it's prey.

This book is in a fictionalized memoir form. It is a lifelong clinical case history and adventurous tale about the development of war related PTSD. 90% of war related sufferers of PTSD come from impaired and abusive childhoods and Michael Joyce is no exception. He is wonderful and awful, talented and yet desturbed. He suffered from a chronically abusive violent father and and an unresolved oedipus complex with his mother resulting in a fixation on women. We see his demons and criminal behavior, along with a buoyancy and loving generosity toward people.

This study is necessarily graphic and purposely not sanitized in our efforts to be clinically accurate. Therapy sessions, ongoing symptom discussions and examples of desturbances are included.

Michael Joyce barely survives his year in Vietnam. Wounded twice, shot down and constantly exposed to fear, helplessness and horror. He suffers from PTSD and yet is highly decorated. Volume II and III of this trilogy sees his post war lifelong struggle with PTSD yet he successfully works for the VA as a Clinical Psychologist treating combat veterans with PTSD.

This is a must read for students of psychology, the human condition, and unique war influences. At the same time it is presented as a tip of the spear page turner. Many of us, years later, are still not home from war.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Historical Fiction

Number of Pages: 572

Word Count: 195,050

Thirty Years Ago: Life and the First Gulf War by Juan Manuel Pérez

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

Thirty Years Ago: Life and the First Gulf War by Juan Manuel Pérez (“Doc”) is a fifty-sonnet, autobiographical recollection of memories and thoughts about serving in the First Gulf War in 1990 to 1991, otherwise known as Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm/Desert Calm, as a Navy Corpsman in a Marine Corps Battalion while earning the title of “DEVIL DOC.” It is also about life after that, especially thoughts coming back to haunt the now veteran severely during the isolating time of the COVID-19 pandemic in conjunction with the Thirty-Year Anniversary of that same war, causing spikes in his PTSD and recurring nightmares. The author’s hope for this book is to let others continue to see that they are not alone in the silent suffering that goes with serving our country, especially in war or in any other event that may lead to PTSD. He hopes they can see that by continuing to talk or write about it, that it can become an integral part of the healing process, even if we can’t get the events out of our minds. This fast-paced, easy-to-read memoir-in-verse is in fact a first-person, oral account of one of America’s last global conflicts of the 20th century. This book will prove to be a great addition to your reading selections whether you are a poetry lover or a student of history. This book will surely become a supplemental college reading text in the study of the human cost of America’s involvement in modern day global conflicts.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Poetry—Poetry Book

Number of Pages: 77

Word Count: 7,724


Warrior Dogs by LTC (ret) Richard A. Vargus

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Author's Synopsis

The unvarnished story of military working dogs. The hero handlers and their dogs throughout history, especially their impact in Iraq and Afghanistan during Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. Bringing to the forefront the challenges and tunnel vision by Pentagon bureaucrats in projecting the MWD platform. It's the true story of the author's experiences during his years at US Central Command, and the Pentagon as the Army and DoD MWD Program Manager.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—History

Number of Pages: 202

Word Count: 102,614


The Secrets of St. Edmond's Terrace by John Wyle

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

This story takes place in and around St. Edmond’s Terrace, an independent living facility for seniors. Unbeknownst to the residents, Atlanta’s notorious madam, disguised and using an alias, is also a new resident hiding in their midst. The “madam”, frequently reported in the local news, becomes the best friend of her next-door neighbor, a retired architect and recent widower. Meanwhile, the Republican governor, up for re-election and anxious to avoid an “October surprise,” along with the Democrats, are each desperately wanting to acquire the madam’s “little black book.” When the architect’s daughter announces her engagement to the son of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the architect’s new lady friend volunteers to help plan the wedding, only to discover the guest list will also include the President and First Lady of the United States. The groom, having served as the, then, Vice President’s aide-de-camp, is now a personal friend of the newly elected President and a regular on the White House basketball court.

This madcap tale of life at the Terrace—with gossip spreading rumors among the ladies, the men’s club buzzing with talk of sports at one end and politics at the other, and many of its residents serving on the “Wedding Brigade”— moves from one adventure to another as the Director of Security works to solve the mystery of who the new lady resident might actually be. Finally, all hell breaks loose at the wedding reception, only to end with the secrets of St. Edmond’s Terrace revealed.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Other—Humor

Number of Pages: 234

Word Count: 60,852


One at a Time by Allen Wittenborn

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

This baker's dozen of short reads explores the lives of people from a diverse range of backgrounds, locations, and time periods. They include true cases and imaginary ones. Some of the protagonists do well, others not so well. You'll find stories that are one hundred-percent factual, some purely imaginary, others a bit of each--creative nonfiction. Some end ambiguously or have no end at all. The stories are not listed in any particular order. They are not listed chronologically. There is no topic that binds them together, none of them is connected to another. The only common theme, it is hoped, is a potpourri of enjoyable stories.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Other—Anthology/Collection

Number of Pages: 207

Word Count: 57,000



The Expendable by John Lewis Floyd

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

The Expendable is a captivating, true story from the opening months of WWII in the Pacific. As smoke billows skyward from Pearl Harbor, Japan throws its full military might against the outnumbered and under-equipped Filipino forces. Hart sends his U.S. Asiatic Fleet south, to the safety of Allied waters. When the remnants of PBY Patrol Wing 10 depart with the fleet, Charles Beckner, corpsman for Squadron 102, is left behind with no apparent avenue for escape. Under relentless pressure from General Homma's troops and air forces, the American-Filipino troops retreat to the tip of the Bataan Peninsula. Sick with malaria and dysentery and nearly out of food and ammunition, surrender is imminent for those who survive. Charles wrangles a transfer to Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron 3 as machine gunner and corpsman on PT-34. After two months of engaging enemy forces along the Bataan coast, Squadron 3 is tasked with a critical, covert mission, evacuating General MacArthur, that once more leaves Charles stranded, this time on the southern Philippine island of Cebu. As the Japanese noose tightens, Charles joins other sailors and soldiers preparing for guerrilla resistance from the interior mountains of Mindanao Island. His plans are interrupted by one more mission, one that will unexpectedly reunite him with crewmen of his old seaplane squadron. With advancing Japanese troops only minutes away, the decision is to take the only remaining chance to escape, risking death rather than surrender.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Creative Nonfiction

Number of Pages: 505

Word Count: 150,000


Laugh Rinse Repeat by Terry Hans RDH

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

During a forty-five year career, dental hygienist, Terry Hans has treated thousands of patients. The one thing they have in common is they’re all a little scared, so they babble, often revealing stories about themselves they would never tell otherwise. Some stories are bizarre, some funny, most are heartwarming, but rest assured, they are all true!

In this compilation, Terry Hans—called by her friends and patients “the Dental Erma Bombeck”—shares her favorites. You won’t even need an appointment to have a hilarious time reading Laugh, Rinse, Repeat.”

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Other—Humor

Number of Pages: 272

Word Count: 53,803


Into The Storm by Darcy Guyant

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

A severe storm quickly develops, catching three fishermen off guard in the open ocean. They are in danger of sinking and need help, fast! Who will come to their rescue?

Dolph, a Coast Guard HH-65 “Dolphin” rescue helicopter and his pilot, Gwen, quickly respond to save the three men in distress. But the mission is not easy. Courage, team work, and trusting the team to do their jobs are essential.

In order to reach the sinking boat as quickly as possible, they must fly directly into the storm, which makes both Dolph and Gwen very nervous. They must trust each other, work as a team, and demonstrate courage to save the men who are in danger of drowning.

Dolph, Gwen, the Rescue Swimmer (Sam), and the Flight Mechanic (Mike) work together to accomplish the mission, even while facing additional unexpected challenges.

This story is based on an actual rescue mission performed by the author, Darcy Guyant, a retired U.S. Coast Guard HH65 Dolphin helicopter pilot.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 40

Word Count: 1118


Welcome Home Melanie Mae by Tiffany Rebar

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

Melanie Mae's beautiful smile and loving character will delight children as they read about her adventures in a new home. Melanie Mae encourages learning as she goes through the days of the week with her new family. With the amazing imagination of two girls, who happily welcomed her into their family, Melanie Mae can do anything. Their days are filled with fun and excitement as they do photo shoots, dance, dress-up, go on a safari, and much more. Melanie Mae is happy to find a place where she can be the unique, silly giraffe that she truly is. She finally found a place where she belongs.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 28

Word Count: 210


Citizen Soldier: From the Land of Lincoln to Iraq and Back by Robert L. Elliott

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

Imagine going to war for a year with no assurance that you would ever return.

In Robert Elliott’s Citizen Soldier: From the Land of Lincoln to Iraq and Back, readers learn what it is like to say goodbye to a wife and three children and then travel across Iraq by convoy and helicopters. You’ll learn about the stressors, the dangers, and the risks taken and retaken.

The author gives vivid accounts of; walking the ancient ruins of Babylon, transporting detainees to Abu Ghraib Prison, meeting with Ukrainian soldiers near the Iranian border, calling in a medevac after a roadside bomb attack, and sustaining a mortar attack.

The true story is written from a soldier's perspective, inviting you to experience the emotional roller coaster that service members and their families voluntarily endure to support and defend the Constitution of the United States.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Creative Nonfiction

Number of Pages: 272

Word Count: 58,534

Mission Transition: Navigating the Opportunities and Obstacles to Your Post-Military Career by Matthew J. Louis

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MWSA Review Pending

 

Author's Synopsis

Mission Transition is an essential career-change guide for any transitioning veteran that wants to avoid false starts and make optimal career choices following active duty.

Every year, about a quarter of a million veterans leave the military - most of whom are unprepared for the transition. These service members have developed incredible leadership, problem-solving, and practical skills that are underutilized once they reach the civilian world, a detriment to both themselves and society.

Well-intentioned Transition Assistance Programs and other support structures within the armed forces often leave veterans fending for themselves. The mission-first culture of the military results in service members focusing on their active duty roles in the year leading up to their separation, leaving them little time to adequately prepare to join the civilian world.

President of Purepost, a next-generation staffing solution and public benefits corporation, and author Matthew J. Louis guides military personnel through the entire process of making a successful move into civilian professional life.

In Mission Transition, this book will:

* Guide you through the process of discovering what path you want to take going forward

* Teach you the strategies that will make your résumé stand out

* Provide suggestions to help you prepare for and ace the interview

* Discuss ways to acclimate to your new organization’s culture and pay it forward to other veterans

Each chapter includes advice from other veterans, illustrations of key concepts, summaries, and suggested resources. Let this well-written and easy to follow guidebook help you transition out from the military and commit to being successful in the next chapter of your life.

Format(s) for review: Paper & Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—How to/Business

Number of Pages: 304

Word Count: 70000