Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite

Are You Love Smart or Love Stupid? by Dr. Rachel Sims is a modern-day guide to relationships and dating. From the dos and don’ts to the advice you need to forget you ever heard from others, Dr. Sims takes you through realistic expectations, relationship advice, and modern-day examples of what you face in the dating pool. This book will give you the tools you need to find and stay in a healthy relationship.

Are You Love Smart or Love Stupid? Debunking the Myths That Stop You from Finding and Keeping Love by Dr. Rachel Sims is definitely a book worth reading. I have found that when it comes to dating, much like in the book, you are met with some ridiculous bits of advice or sayings regarding relationships. This is, of course, due to everyone’s unique experience in relationships; however, it does not mean the advice you receive is coming from a previously healthy relationship and therefore can lead you astray. This book seeks to correct the issue by giving you advice that leads you to make better choices in finding and staying in a healthy relationship. I love how the author does this in stages and with the use of common myths about dating.

Throughout the chapters, there are myths with given examples which are then busted, showing the reader how these myths are false and how they can actually cause harm to your relationship. Overall, I found this book to be really insightful and empowering, giving advice that enables the reader to make better choices and go forward to build or find a healthy, functional relationship.

Reviewed by Leonard William Smuts for Readers' Favorite

It seems that wisdom, much like common sense, is no longer common. There are distractions. The need to earn a living and lifestyle choices leave little time for self-contemplation. Because of this, individuals simply take on the belief systems of society and lose individuality, influenced along the way by social media and fake news. The modern education system is not geared to encourage freedom of thought, nor does it cultivate inquiring minds, yet it is the ability to introspect and know ourselves that leads us towards wisdom. Wisdom takes readers on a journey of exploration, delving into all the relevant aspects that define our lives. Jason Merchey unpacks what wisdom represents and explores issues such as whether wisdom can be taught, whether it requires a high level of intelligence to achieve, and whether it inherently brings happiness. Jason asks searching questions of contemporary American society and its values, politics, beliefs, and present direction – where wisdom is increasingly lacking. Topics such as social justice, the capitalist system, political polarization, mental illness, and equality are among the many topics evaluated. Measuring success is equally challenging. Humans are by no means perfect and the pursuit of wisdom is not an easy path.

In writing Wisdom, Jason Merchey inspires readers to take time out to evaluate the questions that have troubled philosophers for millennia, and in particular, wisdom. In this, he succeeds admirably! Classic philosophers have arranged themselves into schools of thought, but few have really provided a cohesive overview of the nature of our being. Using a practical approach, Jason draws on his experience of life, both as a former psychotherapist and a student of human behavior to provide guidance. The success of this book lies in the author’s ability to convey complex concepts in simple terms, illustrated with many examples and backed by quotations from the wise. The lofty ideology of academia is replaced by homespun values which lead to understanding and ultimately wisdom. By reading this book we can better understand the underlying thought processes that influence our lives and then apply them to achieve personal growth. Wisdom is a virtue that is not for sale - life must be experienced and lessons learned. This is a thought-provoking and insightful book, which is highly recommended, and concludes that wisdom remains our greatest strength. A great book that provides a down-to-earth understanding of a neglected field!

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

From the Mountaintop is a memoir by author Campbell Bolwell and yet it is much more than just the detailing of one man’s life; it is a journey deep inside the mind of all of us, an attempt to answer those age-old questions – Who are we? Where did we come from? Where are we going? And, of course, what is our purpose here on earth? From a very early age, the author has been asking questions, seeking truth, direction, and purpose. It has been a lifelong search through the world’s established religions, philosophies, and cultures looking for that one spark, the one enlightenment, that one “ah-ah” moment that will reveal all to us. He takes the reader through his own exploration of his inner self and arrives at some truths that although stunningly simple and easy to understand are nevertheless often overlooked, ignored, or misunderstood by humanity. This book will challenge your core beliefs and will force you to stop and take a long, hard look at the journey you personally are undertaking on planet Earth.

As a professional reviewer, I read many books in a year, as well as a number of “self-help” or “new-thought” authors but few have touched me as deeply or resonated so soundly with me as From the Mountaintop by Campbell Bolwell. Perhaps it is that we are of a similar generation; perhaps it is that the book reflects many of my own beliefs; perhaps I feel a kinship with his story (He is an Australian and I am a New Zealander plus he has spent a lot of time in South East Asia, where I have lived for the past 11 years) but whatever the reason, this book spoke to me on a level that few have. I would place this book on the same high pedestal as some of the great “new-thought” authors I have read, such as Wallace Wattles, Rhonda Byrne, Bob Proctor and Jack Canfield – it really is that insightful, that exciting, and that revelatory.

I particularly enjoyed that Bolwell used his personal experiences, his friends and family relationships to underline the fascinating precepts and concepts he expounds. I also loved that this book discusses a complete theory of man’s evolution and development, our purpose, and our direction, but the author was unafraid to openly admit there are some things about this Universe that we still do not understand and perhaps never will. I found it so exciting that if not us, then at least our children will participate in the knowledge explosion which will open up the gates of wisdom to more. I wholeheartedly concur with the author that our purpose on this physical plane as spiritual beings is to garner wisdom. If you are searching, if you are lost, or if you just want to consider an alternative meaning to life than the day-to-day grind, then this is the book to read. I commend the author for his logical and complete presentation of this work and I highly recommend it.

Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite

As hackers continue to level up their game, cybersecurity specialist, US Army veteran, and ex-NSA developer Ben McCarthy invites you into an ancient and effective way to fight cybercrime in Cyberjutsu: Cybersecurity for the Modern Ninja. The book’s message is clear and direct, and it all lies in the strategies and techniques that ninjas used for warfare. Using the lessons obtained from unearthed ninja scrolls from medieval times, this book allows you to visualize a more physical rather than a mere virtual or cyber environment, which then makes you think of hackers’ tactics and techniques as they relate to tangible assets. Every chapter provides you with Castle Theory exercises that ask you to solve a threat scenario using what you’ve learned about ninjas and cyber concepts.

Much like the lessons that The Art of War has provided for modern-day businesses and entrepreneurs, Cyberjutsu aims to give invaluable lessons from the past to help you not only think like a hacker but to think like a ninja as well. There is no doubt that what we need to protect our businesses and online privacy is an innovative practice and mindset that will put us always a step ahead against the enemy. Investment in security measures is only part of the answer, and we have seen that traditional methodologies can only do so much. As a modern voice referencing an ancient text, Ben McCarthy makes his book resonate on all levels. A highly recommended read for those who are concerned about facing the security challenges in this age of digital information.

Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

Get Bail, Leave Jail by S.J. Plotkin is a non-fiction book with the tagline “America’s Guide to Hiring a Bondsman, Navigating Bail Bonds, and Getting out of Custody before Trial.” The book is exactly that: a no-nonsense comprehensive resource for those who find themselves thrown in at the deep end and into the world nobody ever wants to be in. While the book would obviously be helpful to anyone, it is primarily tailored to those on the outside of a cell, although anyone on the inside with access will find it helpful as well. A massive range of scenarios, advice, and assistance is offered in a virtual encyclopedia of information.

Get Bail, Leave Jail can be a bit heavy for a reader who has not had any experience navigating the justice system, but the whole point of S.J. Plotkin's work is because there are so many people out there with the same inexperience. It is for this reason that Plotkin's book is so important. The author narrates with authority and a level of understanding that enhances their credibility, and as a reader, I trusted them completely. The most interesting parts to me were the segments on the different types of bonds, but what stood out as the most relevant is in the section titled Avoiding Juridical Mistreatment. This covers what the rights of the accused are and how to make certain they are correctly implemented, writing: “If an inmate does not know their rights or have the aid of both a good lawyer and bail agent, overzealous police and prosecutors can take advantage of them.” This is the book nobody wants but everybody needs and is probably the most comprehensive guide I have read.

Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite

The Noble Edge: Reclaiming an Ethical World One Choice at a Time, by best-selling author Christopher Gilbert, is the perfect self-help book for bringing ethics and nobility back to human thinking and behavior. Themes of trust, truth, and personal success are also explored, and this is a refreshing change from the my-needs-first approach to being in the world. In the polarized society we live in today, talking about these things may seem a little outdated, but these are the things we need to get back on track. We hear so many versions of what reality and truth are supposed to be, it can be a bit confusing. We look outward for answers and expect them to come from someone or somewhere else when we should be asking what it is we ourselves should be doing to improve things. The author explores the idea of success and what it means, and authentic relationships. Ethical choices aren't always easy, but this book stands as a guide for today's generation of hopefuls.

Gilbert takes readers on a philosophical and practical journey of ethics. What does it mean to be noble? Is it a thing of the past, or something that lies ensconced inside, ready to be mined and brought forth? Can we really become less selfish and more spiritual? The nature of this book is dynamic and easy to read, friendly, personal, and with a definite sense of humor. The anecdotes are encouraging, relatable, and energizing to illustrate the points being made. One example is Grace, who receives $20 more back from a cashier than what is actually owed her. What does she do? How does she process her decision? A strong takeaway from the lessons here is that we can transform ourselves and one another by adopting the habit of making good choices and that ethics can and should play a larger part in our lives and in those choices. Nine principles are discussed and can be used in a professional setting, familial relationships, and friendships/other relationships. No one would argue that businesses, agencies, communities, and families could all benefit from more ethics, but this book actually shows how that can be accomplished. For an accessible guide that will instantly enrich and impact your daily interactions and outlook on your life and the lives of others, the award-winning The Noble Edge: Reclaiming an Ethical World One Choice at a Time, by Christopher Gilbert, is a must-read.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Ultimate Step by Step Guide to Machine Learning Using Python: Predictive Modelling Concepts Explained in Simple Terms for Beginners by Daneyal Anis is a great book for beginners who want to learn Python and get into programming. From sharing the basics of the programming language to sharing some very advanced programming skills, the author has done a great job of sharing information and helping the reader increase their knowledge. The author describes how you can make models in Python, how you can code, master analytics and, overall, become a master of Python in 7 days. This is a good book for anyone who wishes to follow a career in Data Science but finds it to be intimidating.

I have personally worked in a software house where the programmers worked using Python and sang praises about how easy it is. I decided to try the language and I understood nothing. I didn’t have clear guidance or anyone who would help me understand the language properly. Ultimate Step by Step Guide to Machine Learning Using Python is the complete opposite. Daneyal Anis starts the guide with the basics, helping you fully understand the language and implement it in real life. While he made the programming language easy to understand, he also encourages readers to implement what they have learned in real life. He encourages readers to experiment, to find their own rhythm with the language, and create their own understanding. I found the choice of words very good and the book to be very educational and informative for beginners.

Reviewed by Lesley Jones for Readers' Favorite

In a society where material possessions symbolize success, many people confuse wealth with happiness. Being happy is what many of us strive for, but what does it mean to be truly happy? Has happiness always seemed to elude you? Are you ready to take charge of your life and begin to make conscious, intelligent choices that will serve you? It is time to take command of your life, put yourself back in control, and discover your life's higher purpose. In 6 Mega Life Transforming Hacks by Mirza Barlas, the six life-transforming hacks are backed up with research data, are simple, and will give you complete clarity on what you really want, plus a complete action road map to start seeing results. At the end of every chapter, you will receive some “specks of gold” and more resources to add to your life-hack tool-kit. Discover how to persevere and remain focused when you face obstacles, change negative thinking, learn how to evaluate problems objectively with CBT, increase your mindfulness, set goals, and solve problems intelligently. What if you could finally discover that happiness has always been within your reach?

Mirza Barlas's 6 Mega Life Transforming Hacks is an incredible step by step guide to improving your mindset, attitude, and thought processes. However, if you like to read self-help books and take no action, this book will not suit you. This guide is for anyone who is committed to change and is willing to take the necessary actions to achieve it. With the specks of gold, brilliant life-changing hacks resources section, there is no excuse not to begin to make significant alterations to your life. To gain knowledge and then take no action is simply adding more clutter to your life. However, if you truly want to change the direction of your life, then there simply is no better guide than this one. It is a huge treasure chest of techniques, exercises, and expertise. I thought the use of parables and stories were extremely helpful as they gave a visual aspect to obstacles and problems. I especially loved the quotes from historical figures; my favorite was from F. Scott Fitzgerald: 'Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.' I thought the 15 thinking errors and how to fix them section was very powerful. The goal-setting section was fantastic as it took a refreshing new look at problem-solving. I loved the section in Chapter 2 about turning your passion into your occupation; that was truly a lightbulb moment for me. The huge section on mindfulness and CBT was amazing, especially regarding the filters we place on reality. Everything in this guide is explained so clearly and will really inspire anyone to take the first step to dramatic change.

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

So-Called Normal by Mark Henick is a memoir of the author's struggles as he is forced to endure mental health issues as part of his daily life. From childhood Henick is at odds with his family, first his philandering father and then his subsequent step-father, Gary, a man with a short fuse, a wicked temper, and the physical strength to tear Henick and his brother Ray down. The emotional abuse is equally frightening and Gary uses scare tactics, intimidation, homophobia, and manipulation to solidify control. Around the age of twelve Henick's mental health issues began to impact his life both in and outside the home, and he traverses them with mixed levels of support and success. His clinical depression and anxiety intensify and a string of unfortunate events dot his journey. Therapy, psych wards, and suicide attempts culminate into one fateful encounter that changes the trajectory of his life.

So-Called Normal is an engrossing memoir, written with the flourish generally only found in fiction as Mark Henick narrates his story in the first person. I think the standout for me was the way he was able to shift through the story in an organic way, allowing a reader to grow along with him as he matures. His sister Krista having nerves of absolute steel make for moments of levity in a narrative that is frequently sad and intense. His mother's love for her children and her fallibility toward the men in her life, and her own fears and insecurities, develop a woman that is deeply layered and authentic. On the literary front, the story is well written and tight. There is a moment when a now older and married Henick is able to close the door on a tumultuous childhood in a heartbreaking scene of farewells. Overall, this is a beautiful book, and where I would normally say that the memoir will be treasured by the author's descendants, in the case of Mark Henick I can confidently say this will also likely be treasured by the strangers who read it. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Skyrocket Your Career: The No Bullsh*t Approach to Find Your Dream Job, Be Successful in It, and Transform into a Rockstar by Raj Subrameyer is a non-fiction self-help business guide for those on the hunt for employment. The book begins with two introductions, one as a foreword and the other by Subrameyer himself as he outlines the aspirations of his family and what he wanted to do, and how he has achieved the level of success he enjoys now. The book then breaks down into six chapters covering the distinct strategies that fall into the categories of figuring out what you really want to do, the interview and salary negotiation stages, finding success in a job you love, becoming a rockstar in your role, and reaching your full potential through unleashing the power that will inevitably lead to growth.

Skyrocket Your Career covers a whole lot of material that hardly seems possible given its compact size, but Raj Subrameyer is able to deliver the goods with a witty narrative and some genuinely insightful ideas. As a whole the book did feel as if it skewed a bit more toward those in the technology sector, but the application can be easily and quickly tweaked to bend towards virtually any industry so long as you actually know your way around the field. Subrameyer reminds me of an old boss who encouraged me to apply for a promotion for which I was woefully unqualified: “It's not whether you can do the job, it's whether you can get the job.” This of course flies right in the face of Subrameyer's rockstar strategy of underselling to overperform in chapter four, which is where I connected most to the book's message. Overall, this is an excellent book with a lot to offer, and Subrameyer seems like just the kind of pro who can get you there.