Books & Literature News
New Jersey Corrections Officer J. Gonzalez Publishes Horror Thriller The Devil's Transfer
J. Gonzalez, a corrections officer in New Jersey, has published The Devil's Transfer , a horror thriller laced with slight dark humor, which follows two officers and the felon they are transporting after a routine job breaks down. The book is available now on Amazon as a Kindle edition and via Barnes & Noble. The Devil's Transfer follows officers Jorge and Mark as a broken-down van, an unfamiliar gas station, and a tow pull their transfer into Boone Helm, an isolated town hiding a cult devoted to the devil. Carter, the felon the two officers are transporting, becomes the third man forced to survive alongside them once the town closes in. The 90-page novel is listed under Amazon's Mystery, Thriller and Suspense category and published on January 14, 2026. Gonzalez brings a corrections officer's working knowledge of procedure and control to a story built around what happens when that control disappears. The book keeps its focus on the three men at its center rather than on a single visible villain, letting the town itself carry the threat through most of the story. Boone Helm's mayor is presented as welcoming on the surface, and the story withholds what the town actually worships until the reader has already felt something is wrong with the place. That background shapes how the danger in the book is written. The threat in The Devil's Transfer builds through procedure and observation rather than through sudden violence, an approach that draws directly on the kind of attention a corrections job requires day to day. The setup places Jorge and Mark, the two officers guarding Carter, on the same side of the same threat as the man they were transporting. The book's second half turns on what changes between the three once escape depends on all of them working together rather than on the two officers keeping Carter under guard. Old conflicts between the three resurface as the town narrows their options, and the story is built to close on its own rather than set up a sequel. Early reader reviews on Amazon have pointed to the book's tension and pacing as what stays with them after finishing it. The Devil's Transfer arrives as reader interest in horror and thriller titles typically rises heading into October, and it is available now on Amazon as a Kindle edition, as well as from Barnes & Noble. Gonzalez wrote the book around the procedural instincts his corrections work requires, applied instead to a town where nothing is what it presents itself to be. About J. Gonzalez J. Gonzalez is a corrections officer in New Jersey and the author of The Devil's Transfer, a 90-page thriller published in January 2026 and available now on Amazon in Kindle edition, listed under the platform's Mystery, Thriller and Suspense category. It is also available from Barnes & Noble. Gonzalez wrote and published the book independently, without a literary agent or a publishing house attached to the release.
Rich Schiesser Marks 10 Years of Shattered Hearts with Renewed Focus on Teen Mental Health
Ted Stanley Releases 'Words That Moved a Nation,' a New Study of Persuasive Rhetoric
Dr. Emile Parfait Simb Announces November 2 Launch of Book Examining Agricultural Tokenization in Africa
- October 20, 2026Books & Literature
Texas Songwriter Steve Feemster Releases Stone Angel, a Two-Volume Poetry Book
Texas songwriter Steve Feemster has released "Stone Angel," a two-volume paperback collection of 451 poems and song lyrics. The collection brings together writing from most of Feemster's life and marks the first time his work has been gathered in one place. More information about the books, the author and his live performances is available at https://stevefeemster.com Feemster has written songs and poems for decades, according to a spokesperson, sometimes finishing two or three in a single day. His son found close to 490 of them stored on a single USB drive, and with the release of Stone Angel, 451 of those pieces are now in print across two volumes. Volume 1 of the poetry collection stays close to home. "It covers love and its aftermath, kids and grandkids, and the house and town a person comes home to," says Feemster's representative. Volume 2 turns outward, with pieces on faith and doubt, the state of things, the road, and plain Texas humor. "Together, the two books move from private life to the wider world around it," the spokesperson adds. Most pieces in the collection started as songs. They are printed as Feemster wrote them, one to a page, so Stone Angel can be read as a poetry book or as a song lyrics collection. Readers can follow the lines the way they were first sung or take each one on its own as a poem. One example of Steve's poetic songwriting style is showcased in "Make Another Angel," which includes the plaintive verses, "Why didn't he just make another angel / Why in the world did he need you / With all this hate sin and destruction / Is there something he thinks only you can do?" Feemster still performs around Dallas-Fort Worth, and signed copies of Stone Angel are available at his shows. Performance videos are posted on his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@stevefeemster463 , including “Make Another Angel,” performed with Richard Bowren and Donny Dorr. More about Steve Feemster and information about the Stone Angel collection can be found at https://stevefeemster.com
- October 16, 2026Books & Literature
Reverse Speech Founder David John Oates Marks Over 40 Years of Controversial Research and a Literary Career Spanning Nearly 30 Books
Australian author, researcher and educator David John Oates, founder of Reverse Speech, is marking more than four decades of investigating unconventional theories about human communication while continuing his career as a prolific author and international educator. At age 70, Oates remains dedicated to exploring the relationship between language, unconscious thought, psychology and consciousness, alongside developing literary works inspired by his research and personal experiences. Since 1983, Oates has devoted much of his professional life to Reverse Speech, a controversial approach proposing that meaningful expressions associated with unconscious communication can sometimes be perceived when recorded human speech is played backwards. Although Reverse Speech is not recognized as an established scientific method within mainstream linguistics or psychology, Oates has continued developing his theories, teaching analytical techniques and presenting his ideas to audiences internationally. His career also includes approximately 30 books covering psychology, spirituality, theology, personal development, science fiction and psychological thrillers. An Accidental Discovery That Changed a Lifetime Oates traces the beginning of his research to 1983, when an experiment involving backwards recordings of ordinary conversation led him to interpret certain reversed sounds as recognizable words and phrases. What began as an unexpected observation developed into a lifelong investigation of whether speech might contain information beyond its consciously intended meaning. "In 1983, I stumbled upon something that changed my life forever. I had no idea that a simple experiment with recorded speech would lead me on a journey that would consume the next four decades," Oates said. Over subsequent years, he developed a theoretical framework suggesting that human communication may operate on two levels: conscious messages expressed through forward speech and possible unconscious expressions interpreted through reversed recordings. His work particularly emphasizes metaphor, emotional patterns and psychological interpretation. "I believe there is another voice hidden within human speech, a voice that reveals aspects of our unconscious thoughts, emotions, and motivations. I have spent my life trying to understand that voice," he explained. The proposed phenomenon remains scientifically unverified, and meaningful interpretations of reversed audio may arise through auditory pattern recognition. Nevertheless, Oates considers the subject worthy of continued investigation. Four Decades of Research, Controversy and Perseverance Throughout his career, Oates has introduced Reverse Speech through international lectures, radio and television appearances, workshops, interviews and educational programs. His investigations have attracted interest from individuals involved in psychology, education, research and investigative work. One notable chapter involved his reported participation in analyzing recorded speech associated with the 1993 Waco siege in Texas, where he provided interpretations of audio recordings. Such interpretations are not considered scientifically validated forensic evidence. His work has also generated criticism and debate because its underlying theories challenge conventional understandings of language and unconscious communication. Oates acknowledges that pursuing an unconventional research direction has involved professional opposition, legal disputes and significant personal challenges. "I never expected everyone to agree with my discoveries. But I have always believed that unconventional ideas deserve investigation, not automatic dismissal," he said. Despite these experiences, he continues teaching Reverse Speech analysis and mentoring students interested in exploring his methods. From Unconventional Research to an Extensive Literary Career Beyond Reverse Speech, Oates has established a literary career spanning approximately 30 books across nonfiction and fiction. His nonfiction publications explore language, consciousness, psychology, spirituality, theology and the symbolic interpretation of human experience. His fiction draws upon similar philosophical questions, incorporating themes of identity, human motivation, hidden knowledge and the boundaries of conventional understanding. "My nonfiction explores the mysteries of the human mind. My fiction takes those same mysteries and asks what might happen if we followed them beyond the boundaries of everything we think we know," Oates said. His writing connects decades of personal investigation with imaginative storytelling, providing different perspectives on the questions that have shaped his professional life. The Angelium Saga Explores Humanity's Origins and the Nature of Love Among Oates' major literary projects is The Angelium Saga , a science fiction series exploring advanced extraterrestrial civilizations, interstellar exploration, biblical mythology and philosophical questions about humanity's origins. The series examines power, conflict, free will, spiritual evolution and the possibility that love represents a fundamental principle underlying existence. "The Angelium Saga may be set among distant galaxies and extraordinary civilizations, but at its heart it asks a very human question: can we ever evolve beyond fear, conflict, and the desire for power, and learn what love truly means?" Oates said. Through its fictional universe, the series reflects his longstanding interest in consciousness, spirituality and humanity's potential development. Forbidden Voice Connects Psychological Mysteries With Modern Thrillers Oates' Forbidden Voice thriller series approaches related themes through crime investigations, political intrigue, intelligence operations and artificial intelligence. The novels imagine situations in which unconventional approaches to understanding communication intersect with institutional power, secrecy and complex investigations. Drawing inspiration from his research interests, the series examines the fictional consequences of accessing information that individuals may not consciously communicate. Together, The Angelium Saga and Forbidden Voice demonstrate how Oates has incorporated his philosophical interests into different literary genres. Continuing a Lifelong Mission at Age 70 More than four decades after his initial experiments, Oates continues researching Reverse Speech, mentoring students, teaching and developing new literary projects from South Australia. His ongoing work reflects a commitment to investigating questions about consciousness, language and human behavior, while recognizing that his central theories remain outside established scientific consensus. "I have spent more than 40 years exploring what lies beneath the surface of human communication. The more I discover, the more I realise how much remains unknown," he said. Looking ahead, Oates intends to continue connecting research, education and creative writing. "I don't expect people to believe everything I say. I want them to listen, investigate, question, and think for themselves. If my work encourages people to explore the mysteries of consciousness with an open mind, then I will have accomplished something worthwhile." About Reverse Speech and David John Oates Founded by Australian author and researcher David John Oates in 1983, Reverse Speech explores theories of unconscious communication through reversed audio recordings. Oates has spent over 40 years researching and teaching his controversial approach while authoring approximately 30 books on psychology, spirituality and fiction. Based in South Australia, he continues his research, writing and educational work. Learn more at the official Reverse Speech website , follow his Facebook profile , or contact [email protected].
- October 15, 2026Books & Literature
Animate Announces INNER ESSENCE, a Book Exploring Hand Drawing, Architectural Education, and the Future of Design
The high-quality printing of the book, INNER ESSENCE is a 400-page hard cover book, challenges the reader to find ‘unburden contemplation’. The book was prepared by architect and founder Joseph Lambke of Animate Architecture . Organized around 13 drawing exercises and 13 accompanying essays, the book brings together approximately 150 drawings produced between 1975 and 1985 within the architectural education tradition associated with Mies van der Rohe at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT). INNER ESSENCE: A Contribution to the Collective examines the relationship between architectural education, visual order, and the human experience of the built environment. The well-illustrated drawings highlight the influence of Professor Paul Young, who guided students through these foundational drawing exercises while introducing a more open and exploratory approach to architectural education. The collection revisits a formative period in architectural education while directing attention toward a contemporary question: how can architecture establish visual order while accommodating the differences that shape human life? Lambke curated the drawings and contributed essays and original work to the volume, drawing on the educational methods that influenced generations of architects associated with modernism. “I didn't want it to be a book about how great it was in the past,” Lambke says. “INNER ESSENCE needs to be about where we’re going in the future.” The drawings offer a record of shared educational exercises that produced distinctly individual results. Although students worked from common assignments, their interpretations varied according to their approaches and working methods. Paul Young's methods revealed something fundamental about architectural education: a structured framework can encourage individual expression, allowing each person’s particular way of seeing to emerge through the work. The book’s presentation reinforces this idea. Each drawing appears alongside an enlarged view of a selected detail, inviting readers to move between the complete composition and a smaller portion of the work. The shift in scale demonstrates how removing surrounding information can reveal details that might otherwise escape attention. Lambke connects this process to abstraction, a principle central to modern architecture. Abstraction, he suggests, allows people to concentrate on information relevant to a particular task while setting other details aside. In architectural design, this can produce forms that are legible and visually ordered. Yet Lambke argues that excessive abstraction can also erase the variations that make spaces meaningful to the people who inhabit them. “What I’d like people to take away is to find the right amount of abstraction at the right scale,” Lambke remarks. “And we also need to accommodate the right amount of human particularity and variability at the right scale.” His argument draws on Chicago’s modernist architectural tradition, particularly the work associated with Mies van der Rohe, whose influence helped establish a language of restrained forms and visual order. Lambke sees beauty in buildings that achieve coherence through their essential forms, without depending on elaborate ornamentation. For him, the challenge is to preserve this architectural discipline while recognizing the complexity of social life. The principle informs his interest in polycentricity, an approach that organizes environments around multiple centres serving different activities and scales of interaction. An office, for example, supports focused work, while a shared room enables social exchange. Moving between these spaces allows people to redirect their attention according to their needs. Lambke extends this logic to urban planning, where neighbourhoods and community spaces can provide distinct settings for everyday life within a larger urban structure. His Urban Villages framework applies this thinking to the design of cities, seeking to combine coherent architectural forms with more varied, community-oriented spaces. The framework addresses a persistent challenge in urban development: how to create buildings and cities that remain visually legible while supporting the individuality of the people who live in them. Lambke’s wider research also considers the architectural histories of Chicago and Shanghai. He has explored how differing cultural and urban influences can generate new forms of residential life, including Shanghai’s traditional Lilong neighbourhoods. He refers to the productive tension between contrasting ideas as “beautiful antagonism,” suggesting that architectural innovation can emerge when differences are engaged constructively. INNER ESSENCE brings these questions into a broader conversation about the future of architectural practice and education. Its drawings preserve a historical body of student work, while its essays examine the ideas that can inform contemporary design. Through this combination, Lambke invites architects, educators, and developers to reconsider how abstraction and human particularity can operate together. In his view, the enduring challenge is to establish order at the appropriate scale while leaving room for the differences that give buildings and cities their character.
- October 14, 2026Books & Literature
Author Myrna L. Petschke Announces Fifth Book Inspired by Personal Experiences and Life Lessons
Author Myrna L. Petschke announces the release of her fifth book, marking another milestone in her writing journey. Since retiring approximately a year and a half ago, Petschke has dedicated much of her time to writing and community involvement, drawing on her personal experiences to explore themes of resilience, hope, gratitude, and overcoming adversity. Her experiences travelling abroad, including visits to Berlin and other countries where she was invited to share her story, also feature in her book Turning Impossible to Possible . The new release expands a collection of five inspirational titles shaped by Petschke’s life experiences, personal reflections, and values. Her writing explores how people can navigate difficult circumstances, find renewed purpose, and develop a more positive outlook on life. The books are intended for readers seeking encouragement through periods of change, personal hardship, and self-reflection. Petschke’s collection includes Turning Impossible to Possible , Be Thankful in All Things , Do You Know God Loves You? , Listen to His Voice , and Always Give Praise to the Lord . Together, the books explore gratitude, personal growth, perseverance, and the role that individual beliefs and life experiences can play in shaping a person’s outlook. In Turning Impossible to Possible , Petschke recounts experiences involving divorce, abuse, and the challenges of raising a family. She reflects on how she navigated these difficult periods and how her involvement in ministry became an important part of her personal journey. Her experiences with the Happy Hunters ministry, including travel to Germany and other parts of Europe, also contribute to the book’s account of personal change and resilience. The title reflects the idea that circumstances that initially appear insurmountable can sometimes be approached differently through perseverance, support, and a renewed sense of purpose. Her other books examine related themes from different perspectives. Be Thankful in All Things encourages readers to practise gratitude through both positive experiences and difficult periods. Do You Know God Loves You? explores love, compassion, and the importance of feeling connected to something greater than oneself. Listen to His Voice considers reflection, prayer, and the process of finding direction when facing important decisions, while Always Give Praise to the Lord focuses on appreciation, personal testimony, and maintaining a positive outlook. Across the collection, Petschke uses accessible language and personal storytelling to connect with readers. Her approach centres on lessons drawn from lived experience, encouraging people to reflect on their challenges, reconsider their perspectives, and identify sources of strength during uncertain times. “My desire is to share what I have learned through my life experiences and encourage others to discover hope and strength for themselves,” Petschke says. “I hope my books help people understand that, no matter what they have experienced, there are ways to move forward with faith, courage, and a renewed sense of purpose.” Since retiring, Petschke has continued to balance her writing with community and church activities. Her latest book extends her commitment to sharing personal experiences that may resonate with people navigating difficult circumstances or looking for encouragement during periods of change. With five titles now forming her published collection, Petschke continues to use writing as a way to share her story and encourage personal reflection. While her work draws on her Christian background, its broader themes of perseverance, gratitude, forgiveness, and hope may also appeal to readers interested in personal stories of overcoming adversity and finding meaning through life's challenges. Petschke’s books are available through online booksellers, including Better World Books .
- October 13, 2026Books & Literature
LUCERRÁ Wins FWA And Orpetron Awards With Hardik Bhansali’s Obsession Engineering Framework
Immersive brand experience design studio LUCERRÁ has received FWA’s Site Of The Day recognition for August 23, 2026, alongside Orpetron’s Site Of The Month recognition for August 2026. The dual recognitions honor the studio’s digital platform, built upon founder Hardik Bhansali’s Obsession Engineering design framework. Founded in 2021 by CEO and Design Director Hardik Bhansali , LUCERRÁ , formerly known as Visual Identity Studio prior to its 2026 rebranding, creates cinematic, interactive digital environments by combining story architecture, real-time motion, and web technology. The award-winning interactive platform serves as a direct implementation of Hardik Bhansali’s published book and research paper, Obsession Engineering: Science of Story, Control & Identity (published September 1, 2025). The research outlines structural mechanisms specifically sensory imprinting, identity hooks, and control loops designed to transform digital interactions into memorable, long-term brand equity. "Story, control, and identity guide every interface and cinematic space we design," said Hardik Bhansali, founder and CEO of LUCERRÁ. "Obsession Engineering bridges psychological research with spatial web design to construct digital experiences that resonate long after a user leaves the site." Through LUCERRÁ, Bhansali continues to advance the application of Obsession Engineering across digital products, spatial interfaces, and brand strategy. The framework is organised around story, control and identity. It considers story architecture, sensory imprinting, identity hooks and control loops as connected elements of experience design, bringing narrative and sensory techniques into the studio’s approach to cinematic, interactive environments. About LUCERRÁ Founded in 2021 by Art director and author of the book Obsession Engineering - Hardik Bhansali and previously known as Visual Identity studio, rebranded in 2026 as Lucerrá is an immersive brand experience design studio, crafting digital cinematic spaces through storytelling, motion and technology for brands that do not simply want to be found but remembered. The studio is known for art direction and design, and immersive storytelling through digital experiences. What differentiates Lucerrá is its approach of blending cinema and other unique storytelling techniques in digital art and experiences to establish empathy and allow for a moving experience.
- October 12, 2026Books & Literature
Hindu Myths: A Modern Retelling Brings Ancient Spiritual Stories to Contemporary Readers
Blake Praharaj, storyteller, author, and game designer, announced the release of Hindu Myths: A Modern Retelling , a new book written to present ideas from Hindu mythology and Sanātana Dharma to contemporary readers through creative prose, symbolic storytelling, and personal reflection. The release marks a continued expansion of Praharaj’s work as a writer and multidisciplinary creator exploring spirituality, humor, design, and the search for meaning in modern life. A Contemporary Entry Point Into Ancient Stories Hindu Myths: A Modern Retelling approaches traditional narratives through a style intended to be accessible without reducing their philosophical depth. Praharaj frames the book as a literary bridge between inherited wisdom and current emotional experience, using modern writing techniques to explore themes of devotion, uncertainty, identity, and inner growth. Rather than presenting spiritual concepts as instruction, the book emphasizes discovery, reflection, and the value of personal interpretation. The author’s broader creative work has focused on helping people connect with deeper roots while remaining engaged with the realities of contemporary culture. As a storyteller and game designer, Praharaj brings an interest in structure, pacing, symbolism, and participatory imagination to the page. That background informs the book’s approach, which treats myth not only as inherited narrative but also as a living framework through which readers may consider their own questions. Symbolism, Humor, and Spiritual Inquiry Praharaj wrote Hindu Myths: A Modern Retelling with the goal of presenting Sanatana Dharma, often translated as the eternal way or eternal order, in a manner that is neither academic nor prescriptive. The book focuses on spiritual ideas through scenes and reflections shaped by humor, affection, and philosophical searching. Its style is designed to invite readers into layered concepts without requiring prior study of Hindu traditions. Early reader comments describe the work as “deceptively simple, deeply philosophical” and “replete with reflective topics.” Other responses describe the book as “one of the most heartfelt books I have ever seen” and “I laughed, I wept, I loved it.” Another reader response noted, “This book found me at the right time, it was exactly what I needed.” These comments reflect the author’s aim to create a book that can be approached emotionally as well as intellectually. The book’s central differentiator is its effort to portray the depth of eastern philosophy and spiritualism through contemporary narrative sensibilities. Praharaj positions the work as a response to spiritual writing that can sometimes feel distant, overly forceful, or inaccessible to readers outside specific communities. The result is a retelling that seeks to honor old stories while making space for vulnerability, playfulness, and individualized meaning. Recognition for Best Mythological Retelling in the United States of 2026 Blake Praharaj has earned the title of Best Mythological Retelling in the United States of 2026 from Best of Best Review for his book, Hindu Myths: A Modern Retelling . The recognition celebrates his ability to present ancient Hindu stories through engaging narratives that combine humor, emotional warmth, and philosophical insight. Through an approachable storytelling style, Praharaj brings enduring themes of Dharma, devotion, identity, and purpose to modern audiences while respecting their spiritual origins. His work offers readers a meaningful way to explore Hindu mythology and discover its continuing relevance in contemporary life. A Creative Practice Beyond the Page Praharaj’s work has received multiple awards across creative writing and design, and his projects have emphasized symbolic communication, emotional resonance, and a willingness to examine spiritual questions through original forms. That creative range is reflected in Hindu Myths: A Modern Retelling, which combines narrative craft with a broader interest in how people understand purpose and connection. His groundbreaking independent game studio Magnum Opus Games is currently working on a project that has generated buzz within design and gaming communities simply titled “Home”. Readers and media audiences can learn more about Praharaj’s current work at The Words of Blake . The author also shares creative updates, mythological insights, and related work on Instagram and TikTok , where his public presence centers on spiritual reflection, and creative expression. Inquiries can be directed to [email protected] . Retelling Myth for a Changing Generation The release arrives at a time when many readers are seeking spiritual material that respects tradition while acknowledging modern complexity. Hindu Myths: A Modern Retelling does not present itself as a substitute for religious study or as a definitive interpretation of Hindu thought. Instead, it offers a personal literary lens on stories and ideas that have shaped generations, with a focus on how those narratives may still speak to readers searching for grounding, humor, and meaning. Praharaj’s stated creative purpose is to help people of the modern era connect with deep spiritual roots and follow their hearts with sincerity. In the context of this book, that purpose appears through an emphasis on reflection rather than persuasion. The writing asks readers to consider how myth can function as a mirror, a guide, and a source of emotional recognition, especially for those encountering these stories from outside of formal spiritual spaces. Readers are always asked to follow the truth in their own hearts. Hindu Myths: A Modern Retelling is now available through online retail channels. The book’s upcoming audio format release also underscores Praharaj’s continuing development as an author and creative figure whose work blends traditional themes with modern storytelling methods. Additional updates, reader information, and creative materials are available through his public digital channels. About Blake Praharaj Blake Praharaj is a storyteller, author, and game designer whose work explores symbolism, spirituality, humor, and the search for truth. Through creative writing and design, Praharaj develops projects intended to help modern audiences connect with deeper spiritual roots in a personal and reflective way. His book Hindu Myths: A Modern Retelling presents Hindu mythology through contemporary prose and philosophical inquiry.
- October 9, 2026Books & Literature
Shalisa Sloan James's Three Years Left Reaches National Shelves After Author Narrates Her Own Audiobook
Three Years Left, Adventures in Music, Travel, Faith, and Terminal Cancer, the memoir by Orlando performer and speaker Shalisa Sloan James, is now stocked nationally through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million and Hudson News, alongside an audiobook edition James narrates in her own voice. James set out to give the book national reach when she started writing it during treatment for a Stage Four endometrial cancer diagnosis, and the current distribution puts the memoir in front of readers well beyond the entertainment circles where she is best known. Photo by Shalisa Sloan James James began performing at age eleven, playing the character Mitzi at Showbiz Pizza locations, and built a three-decade career from there across live shows, recording sessions, and corporate stages. She has done vocal work for hundreds of jingles and commercials, performed with the a cappella ensemble Toxic Audio, and currently serves as vocal director for live shows at Universal Studios Florida. Three Years Left follows her through that career alongside her travels, her faith, and her medical treatment in roughly equal measure, and James chose to narrate the audiobook herself so listeners would hear the story in the same voice she has used on stage for three decades. The same voice now on the audiobook has carried James through an Emmy recognized role as Tessa on the PBS series The Reppies, three Female Vocalist of the Year honors from the Contemporary A Cappella Society of America, and a Telly Award for a comedic music video, alongside her Grammy-nominated work with Toxic Audio. Readers picking up Three Years Left in a national bookstore are hearing, if they choose the audiobook, the same performer behind all of it. James said the retail expansion matters to her less as a sales milestone than as reach into rooms she would not otherwise enter, including readers dealing with a diagnosis or a hardship that has nothing to do with cancer at all. "I wanted this in bookstores in places I've never performed, for people I'll never meet," James said. "That was the goal from the beginning, not just people who already knew my work." James continues to perform, direct and speak nationally while promoting the book, and Three Years Left is available now in print, ebook and audiobook formats through the retailers above and at shalisajames.com. About Shalisa Sloan James Shalisa Sloan James is a performer, director and speaker based in Orlando, Florida, with more than three decades of work across live entertainment, voice and stage production. She is the owner of Entertainment Central Productions and has performed and directed for audiences at Universal Studios and with the a cappella group Toxic Audio. She is the author of Three Years Left, Adventures in Music, Travel, Faith, and Terminal Cancer. Contact Shalisa Sloan James Author Entertainment Central Productions [email protected] +1 (321) 438-1012
- October 8, 2026Books & Literature
The Parent Reset Helps Overwhelmed Parents Understand Stress, Reactions & Repair
Parents can know what they want to say and still hear something entirely different come out of their mouths. A missing shoe, an argument about homework, or a teenager’s sharp response can become the moment an already-overwhelmed parent reaches their limit. The Parent Reset: A Nervous System Guide for Overwhelmed Parents, by Mindy Green, MSW, explores what happens beneath those reactions and offers practical ways to begin changing familiar family patterns. Green is a parent educator, former school social worker, and creator of the Stretchy Brain Framework™. Drawing on her professional background and experiences raising four children, she helps readers approach difficult parenting moments with greater understanding, curiosity, and accountability. Under high stress, the abilities parents rely on for flexible thinking, patience, and self-control can become harder to use. Recognizing early signs of stress, such as a clenched jaw, tense shoulders, or racing thoughts, can create an opportunity to pause and choose a more helpful next step. The book offers accessible practices involving breathing, movement, grounding, communication, and reflection. Its Field Guide section brings these ideas together in six steps: Notice, Pause, Regulate, Connect, Respond, and Repair. The Parent Reset also explores how parents can support children’s developing ability to manage emotions. This support, often called co-regulation, includes a warm relationship, predictable expectations, and help learning and practising coping skills. A steadier response can help a child through a difficult moment, even when the child remains upset. Examples include younger children, tweens, and teens. Personality insights offer another lens for understanding differences in communication and support needs, while encouraging parents to stay curious about the individual child in front of them. Repair is a central theme. Green encourages parents to take responsibility after hurtful reactions, reconnect, and practice responding differently over time. Understanding stress does not remove the need for boundaries or accountability. It can help parents approach both more thoughtfully. The book’s message is hopeful and practical: parents do not have to change everything at once. Small resets, repeated over time, can help families build healthier ways of communicating and finding their way back to one another. Learn more about The Parent Reset and Mindy Green’s work at https://mindygreencoaching.com/ .
- October 8, 2026Books & Literature
Dr. Clement Iyoha Releases New Book, The Dealmaker, Sharing Lessons on Faith, Leadership and Success
Dr. Clement Iyoha has released his new book, The Dealmaker , a personal and leadership-focused account of his journey from humble beginnings in Nigeria to success across business, ministry, church planting and music. Drawing on decades of professional and spiritual experience, the book explores the principles of faith, perseverance, service, and purposeful leadership that have shaped Iyoha’s life and work. Published as part of Iyoha’s growing body of work , The Dealmaker reflects an unusual combination of business experience and faith-based leadership. His professional journey has included building businesses in the automotive industry while simultaneously serving as a pastor, evangelist, author, and international recording artist. His broader work centers on helping people discover purpose, develop their faith, and lead with impact. The story behind the book begins with Iyoha’s upbringing and an international journey that eventually took him from Nigeria to America. A significant part of that story is his adoption by British missionaries Nigel and Valerie Maynard, an experience that became part of the foundation for a life shaped by faith, opportunity, and service. Iyoha has continued to explore those themes through his writing, with The Dealmaker joining his other books, The Church Planter and Life, Faith and Purpose . For Iyoha, the message behind his work extends beyond professional achievement. His life and writing emphasize the possibility of transformation and purposeful living, particularly for people who may feel limited by their circumstances. “All things are possible. You can be who you want to be,” reflects a central philosophy running through his story and creative work. The Dealmaker, Iyoha notes, approaches success through the lens of experience rather than theory. According to him, the book tells his journey from Nigeria to America while examining the principles that helped him move forward through faith, perseverance, and service. That perspective also connects business leadership with the values that have guided Iyoha’s ministry. His official biography describes more than two decades of ministry experience, along with work establishing churches and Christian fellowships across Nigeria, Europe and the United States. His leadership has extended into humanitarian initiatives through Grace for All Nations Inc., where he has supported education, healthcare, community development, and global outreach. The release also adds another dimension to Iyoha’s work as a creative professional. As a recording artist known as Dr. Clem, he uses gospel and Afrobeat-inspired music to communicate messages of faith, hope, and encouragement to audiences internationally. His books and music share a common emphasis on purpose, resilience, and the belief that personal circumstances do not have to define a person’s future. With The Dealmaker , Iyoha brings together the experiences of an entrepreneur, pastor, church planter, author and artist in a story designed to encourage readers to approach leadership and opportunity with integrity and determination. The book represents another chapter in a broader mission to help people recognize their potential while remaining grounded in service. The Dealmaker is now available for readers interested in Iyoha’s personal journey and his perspective on leadership, negotiation, perseverance, and purposeful success.
- October 7, 2026Books & Literature
RV New England Travel Guide for Fall Road Trip Planning: Review Released
PreciousRV has released a review of Best RV New England Travel Guide, a 224-page travel-planning book by Harper Camden designed for RV owners and camper van travelers exploring Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. More information is available at https://preciousrv.com/rv-new-england-travel-guide/ The review arrives as New England's fall foliage season gathers momentum, with New Hampshire's September 29 foliage report showing color changes of 65-80% in the Great North Woods. For RV travelers following the changing scenery, however, choosing a destination is only part of the preparation. Vehicle clearance restrictions, campground availability, and traffic along popular scenic routes can all affect the journey. PreciousRV's review notes that Camden's focuses on the practical considerations that conventional travel guides may overlook. The publication describes Camden's approach as addressing “the mistakes that actually cost RVers money and time,” particularly when travelers rely on unsuitable GPS directions or outdated campground information. One example is the book's 13-Foot Rule, which encourages travelers to verify bridge clearances manually before committing to a route. This is particularly relevant in parts of New England where historic roads and low bridges can present difficulties for larger motorhomes. The guide emphasizes checking restrictions against the actual dimensions of the vehicle. Finding suitable roads is only one concern, notes PreciousRV, pointing to Camden's Triple-Check Framework for verifying campground information before departure to help travelers identify outdated listings and avoid arriving at facilities that are no longer operating. The book's Seven-Day Saunter encourages a more flexible approach to regional travel, while its seasonal guidance helps readers account for changing weather, foliage timing, and traffic. Together, these recommendations support a New England RV road trip that accommodates both scenic opportunities and the practical limitations of larger vehicles. PreciousRV notes that the guide is particularly relevant to first-time visitors, fall foliage travelers, and experienced RV owners unfamiliar with the region. Its review also examines additional advice on protecting recreational vehicles from coastal salt air and mountain moisture. Published in February 2026, Camden's guide is available through Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats . PreciousRV lists the paperback at $9.99 and the Kindle edition at $0.99, although prices may change. Readers planning a fall RV trip can learn more at https://preciousrv.com/category/destinations-trip-planning/
- October 5, 2026Books & Literature
Angelina Assanti Releases Darkly Funny New Memoir About the Unexpected Decade After Cancer
Award-winning author and humor writer Angelina Assanti has released Thank God I Got Cancer...I'm Not a Hypochondriac Anymore! 10 Years Later , a standalone follow-up to her award-winning first cancer memoir. But this is not simply another book about cancer. Ten years after treatment, Assanti found that the disease she once thought would define her life had become only one chapter in a much stranger story. The new memoir explores the decade that followed, including lingering physical consequences of treatment, grief, changing relationships, boundaries, career obstacles, the destruction of her home during Hurricane Ian, and the realization that starting over can become necessary at any age. Through it all, Assanti relies on the tool that has defined much of her writing career: humor. A Massachusetts native now based in Fort Myers, Florida, Assanti writes with sarcasm, candid observation, and gallows humor, finding absurdity in experiences that are often discussed with unrelenting seriousness. The result is a memoir about cancer survivorship that gradually becomes something much larger: a story about what happens when the life a person expected to return to no longer exists. A Decade After Treatment, the Story Continues Assanti's first memoir, Thank God I Got Cancer...I'm Not a Hypochondriac Anymore! , chronicled the irony of a lifelong hypochondriac getting cancer and later received multiple literary awards. A decade later, her new memoir explores life after treatment, including lymphedema, scan anxiety, grief, social isolation, and the challenges of returning to a life that no longer feels the same. Assanti also writes about group therapy, personal boundaries, and finding an individual path forward rather than following a universal formula for recovery. Cancer, however, is only part of the story. When Life Adds a Hurricane to the Plot When Hurricane Ian destroyed Assanti's Southwest Florida home, rebuilding became another unexpected chapter in her life. One surreal moment involved a manatee swimming where her yard had once been. She turned the experience into "Cloudy with a Chance of Manatees," one of several movie inspired elements throughout the memoir. The theme eventually influenced a Jaws inspired cover featuring a manatee instead of a shark. Through stories of loss, changing relationships, medical frustrations, grief, and starting over, Assanti uses humor to address experiences that might otherwise be difficult to discuss. A Memoir Written With a Comedy Writer's Instinct Comedy is not simply an accessory to Assanti's storytelling. It is often the language through which she makes sense of what happens to her. Her Massachusetts roots inform a style built around sarcasm, blunt observations, and gallows humor. Even when the subject is grief, fear, bureaucracy, or loss, Assanti looks for the contradiction or absurdity hiding inside it. That approach has resonated with early readers. Thank God I Got Cancer...I'm Not a Hypochondriac Anymore! 10 Years Later has received multiple five-star reviews from Readers' Favorite, with reviewers highlighting Assanti's ability to move between serious subjects and genuinely funny moments without diminishing either. One reviewer summarized the experience of reading the memoir this way: "There is never a dull moment in this book. It will make you laugh and cry at the same time." Other reviewers have noted the originality of the movie-inspired chapter titles and the book's candid treatment of boundaries, self-advocacy, medical frustrations, grief, difficult relationships, and the long-term consequences that can follow cancer treatment. Yet the memoir's appeal is not limited to people who have experienced cancer. At its core, 10 Years Later is about what happens when something changes the trajectory of a person's life and the expected road back never appears. Sometimes the only option is to build another one. Reinvention Beyond the Cancer Story One of the memoir's central themes is identity. After stepping away from writing, Assanti found herself confronting a question familiar to many people beginning again later in life: What was she supposed to do next? Returning to the traditional workforce proved more difficult than expected. Assanti writes about encountering age as another obstacle and being forced to reconsider what the next stage of her professional life might look like. Instead of returning to the life she had before, she began creating something different. Reinvention became more than a theme of the memoir. It became part of the author's life. That theme now extends to Assanti's writing career as well. Alongside the release of 10 Years Later , she is revisiting earlier books and preparing updated editions for 2026, bringing work written more than a decade ago to new readers. For an author whose latest memoir is partly about second acts, the timing is fitting. Assanti isn't simply writing about one. She is living one. A Story That Refuses to Follow the Expected Script There is one important part of 10 Years Later that Assanti has deliberately kept out of the conversation surrounding its release. The memoir contains a significant turn near the end, and revealing it would change the experience of everything leading up to it. Readers are meant to discover that progression for themselves. It is also one reason Assanti resists reducing the book to a story about surviving cancer. Cancer begins the story. It doesn't define everything that follows. There is health, but there is also identity. There is grief alongside humor. There are endings followed by reinvention. And there are moments so improbable that fiction might have trouble getting away with them. For a writer who once built a memoir around the irony of a hypochondriac getting cancer, perhaps the greatest irony is where the next ten years ultimately led. A Memoir About More Than Cancer Thank God I Got Cancer...I'm Not a Hypochondriac Anymore! 10 Years Later is a standalone memoir, and readers do not need to have read Assanti's first book to understand it. While the story begins with cancer survivorship, its broader themes extend to anyone who has experienced an event that has permanently changed the direction of life. It considers what happens when a person loses a version of life that once seemed permanent, learns to establish boundaries, grieves people and places that are gone, and eventually has to decide what comes next. The book does not suggest that difficult experiences simply disappear or that every loss contains an easy lesson. Sometimes life changes. Sometimes rebuilding means starting over. And sometimes circumstances become so unbelievable that laughter is the only reasonable response. About Angelina Assanti Angelina Assanti is an award-winning author and humor writer based in Fort Myers, Florida. A Massachusetts native, she is known for combining candid personal storytelling with sarcasm, humor, and observations about the absurdity that can exist inside difficult experiences. Her first cancer memoir, Thank God I Got Cancer...I'm Not a Hypochondriac Anymore! , received multiple literary honors. Its standalone follow-up, Thank God I Got Cancer...I'm Not a Hypochondriac Anymore! 10 Years Later , has received multiple five-star reviews from Readers' Favorite. Assanti is also revisiting earlier works for updated editions in 2026 as she continues the next chapter of her writing career. More information about Angelina Assanti, her books, and her writing is available at angelinaassantiauthor.com . You can also email them at [email protected].
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