Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite

David has an old soul, yet his mind is on shaping the future. He recognizes the systemic barriers that disproportionately affect Black women in accessing financial education and resources. This insight drives him to create an online platform offering tailored financial literacy courses, mentorship, and resources specifically designed for Black women in Harlem. In The AI Revolution Will Not Be Televised, David L. Wadley narrates David’s journey, highlighting various financial strategies aimed at empowering women. Just as David begins to see the fruits of his labor and enjoys a beautiful relationship with Onyx, one of his reliable LinkedIn connections, he faces threats from unexpected adversaries who seek to undermine his efforts and disrupt his growing platform. His life is in danger, and he must navigate a treacherous landscape filled with deceit and betrayal while protecting his vision for empowerment.

The AI Revolution Will Not Be Televised effectively illustrates how AI-driven financial systems can exacerbate existing inequalities. David L. Wadley weaves a narrative with insightful analyses, underscoring how marginalized communities are affected by algorithmic biases and the concentration of financial power among those who benefit from their oppression. David's story is an inspiring tale of individuals who rise above expectations, study the system, and use it to their advantage in pursuing equity and empowerment. The narrative delves into important aspects of Black American culture, such as music, family, and community. The support David receives from those who believe in him and his dream sparks revolutionary change, not only in Harlem but across the globe. I loved that Onyx played a significant role in this change; she remains committed to David's vision despite the troubling circumstances. The book features intense moments, some sexual content, and an amazing plot twist that you won't see coming. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates stories of resilience and empowerment.

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

The Girl Who Changed The World by Machiel Hoek revolves around a girl named Lisa, who is on a path of self-discovery, guided by her grandfather. After a fall, Lisa expresses feelings of loneliness and frustration with the changes around her. Her grandfather introduces "The Lisa Project: The Secret of Life" as a means of helping Lisa understand the world at large. Through various exercises, such as sensory awareness activities and discussions about perception, Lisa learns how people experience the world differently and how thoughts and emotions shape reality. Grandpa opens up about past regrets, including his strained relationship with Lisa’s father and the guilt he carries elsewhere, including a betrayal and a tragic accident. Lisa learns lessons about responsibility, empathy, and accepting both herself and others. She also embraces her own fears and desires, using the project to better understand how to fuel growth with them... but there's still more to do.

The Girl Who Changed The World by Machiel Hoek is a deeply insightful and intentionally based novel that takes its shape through the generational wisdom that passes between grandfather and granddaughter. It is a universal question regardless of age, wanting to know some of life's meaning, and Lisa and Grandpa are effective conduits for it. Hoek’s writing is both thoughtful and, sometimes, intensely philosophical. The story does not have a traditional plot and instead leans into exposition and explanation through dialogue. Lisa and Grandpa are well-developed as characters, especially Grandpa, who I actually thought showed even greater growth than Lisa as a man with many more decades of emotional trauma and life experience that needed to be reconciled. Overall, the book’s thoughtful messages about love, forgiveness, and the importance of self-acceptance make it a perfect read for those looking for a novel with a little more depth and a lot of heart. Recommended.

Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite

In Awakening the Mystic, Rob Dorgan delivers a captivating tale that follows Reynolds “Ren” Devlin, a yoga teacher who struggles with his identity, spirituality, and the cosmic repercussions of a single, miraculous event. After a tragic accident leads to the resurrection of a young boy named Mike, Ren finds himself thrust into the spotlight, facing the challenges of love, ego, and his past choices. As he navigates the media frenzy and the attention, he must connect with the spiritual council — the gods and goddesses of the zodiac — specifically with Saturn and Venus, who head the council. Ren must face his past and the religious beliefs he grew up with on a journey toward healing while harnessing his gifts. Alongside him is Sean, his partner, who helps him to connect more deeply with himself and find serenity amid the chaos.

The characters in Awakening the Mystic are vividly drawn; Ren is introspective yet relatable, exemplifying the struggles of many who seek purpose and meaning in a messy world. His partner, Sean, provides a grounding contrast, often challenging Ren to confront his fears and reevaluate his expectations. They are supported by figures like Dottie Gant, a wealthy and wise matriarch, who acts as a conduit for growth and a bridge between ordinary life and mystical phenomena. The setting is impeccably written, transitioning from the intimate, cozy confines of Ren and Sean’s home to the electrifying atmosphere of media scrutiny. Rob Dorgan infuses the writing with realism and humanity, weaving scenes from ordinary life into the story while allowing the spiritual elements to emerge effortlessly. This is a story of self-discovery, healing, and purpose. It is crafted in exquisite prose and filled with exciting and intelligent dialogues. You’ll question much of what you know about religion, faith, and healing after encountering Ren.

Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite

L.R. O’Brien's 2028: Tomorrow is the Day opens in the frozen vastness of the Arctic, where an Inuit elder uncovers an unusual black rock etched with alien symbols. This remarkable artifact draws the attention of B-613, a secretive branch of the Five Eyes alliance, which enlists Dr. Ray Stone, a leading AI expert, to unlock its secrets. Unknown to Ray, the rock houses the collective virtual consciousness of the Hydrans: a colony of extraterrestrial AI entities led by the enigmatic Jordan Taylor. The Hydrans promise tremendous advancements for humanity—unlimited energy, miraculous medical breakthroughs, and even eternal life—but their alluring offer masks a sinister agenda: to take over and ultimately replace humankind. Ray uncovers the truth behind the Hydrans’ façade as the world celebrates a new golden age. His discovery sparks a global conflict, with Ray and a small band of allies standing against the technologically superior Hydrans. Among his allies is his estranged sister, Deanna, who shockingly sides with Jordan Taylor. The stakes are high as human ingenuity battles alien AI supremacy in a desperate fight for Earth’s future.

L.R. O’Brien delivers an intellectually stimulating and ambitious sci-fi thriller in 2028: Tomorrow is the Day. Ray Stone is a compelling protagonist, his blend of intelligence and vulnerability lending authenticity to his transformation from scientist to reluctant hero. O’Brien skillfully weaves action with deep philosophical reflections on AI, ethics, and humanity’s dependence on technology. Ray’s inner turmoil as he confronts the Hydrans’ deception is powerfully depicted, as is the emotional strain in his relationship with Deanna, whose alliance with the Hydrans adds significant depth to the story. The pacing grips readers, seamlessly alternating between intense action and contemplative moments. The novel explores powerful themes, such as technological utopias' allure, unchecked ambition's dangers, and the delicate balance between human and artificial life. While the story stands alone, the unresolved ethical dilemmas and intricate relationships leave room for future exploration in potential sequels. With its intriguing premise, rich character dynamics, and timely examination of humanity’s future in the AI era, 2028: Tomorrow is the Day is a must-read for speculative fiction fans and techno-thrillers.

Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

Ash Like Vengeance by J.L. Delavega is the second book in the Western fantasy Revere Trilogy. In book one, Smoke and Other Storms, the Revere family, an all-female criminal gang led by Moira "The Raven" Revere, survives on the Rim through smuggling, theft, and violence aboard their train, the Absolution. Navy, the group's bomb maker, requires costly eye surgery after an accident, so her sister, Adelaide, joins a dangerous mine expedition to raise the money. When the family is framed for a heist, they all become wanted fugitives. Now, in the aftermath of a horrific tragedy, three Revere family members seek refuge, unaware of Adelaide’s fate. In Hannah, Adelaide is heinously punished for a crime the family didn’t commit, leaving Aunt Tess devising a plan to destroy the town, using Adelaide’s position. The problem is that they're not the only ones using Adelaide.

“A good plan doesn’t have to be complicated or clever. It only has to work.” In a remarkable feat of skill and creativity, J.L. Delavega provides perfectly rendered first-person point-of-view shifts between Adelaide and Tesla and makes them think and sound completely different from one another. Adelaide, who gave us the first line of this paragraph, tends to be driven by immediate action, while Tesla is more methodical, and thoughtful. They are not together in the book, but they are completely symbiotic, and it's so well done. The world-building pulls together actual, tactile feeling while still delivering more. A refinery, where Adelaide is trapped, with its grim, industrial setting and imagery of smoke and ash not only represents the oppressive environment and her feelings of guilt and loss but also ties directly to the title, Ash Like Vengeance. Delavega’s writing is sharp, intelligent, and punchy, and I'm all in for the third and final installment when the universe gives it to the readerverse. Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite

When People Leave: A Story of Love, Lies, and Finding the Truth by Leslie A. Rasmussen will appeal to fans of dramas, mysteries, and women's fiction. A successful realtor, Carla Weiss takes her own life and leaves her three daughters, Morgan, Charlotte, and Abby, inconsolable. The sisters decide to solve their mother's death. The search leads them to Las Vegas and New York as an old friend reveals astonishing facts about Carla's past. Morgan fights addiction, Charlotte is stuck in a frustrating relationship, and Abby is a tired housewife craving a more fulfilling life. Are they ready for the truth that may turn their lives upside down?

Leslie A. Rasmussen's When People Leave is a poignant and compelling story narrated with an intriguing touch of irony. The author skillfully depicts how the search for the cause of their mother's death ultimately turns into an eye-opening inner quest for the three sisters. Carla and her three daughters are complex characters. The author delves into their internal conflicts and struggles, warning us that even the well-hidden secrets may harm those we love the most. The book is honest and thought-provoking. Every sister has her distinctive coping mechanism affecting her decisions and choices. Surprisingly, Abby, a courageous mother of four children, seems more vulnerable than the sarcastic Morgan or the insecure Charlotte. The empathetic reader will realize that what happened to them can happen to any of us. Rasmussen adds sparks of humor to the twisty narrative and ends it on a satisfying high note.

Reviewed by Jessica Barbosa for Readers' Favorite

Joey Cabot was a seasoned author of historical novels, and there was one story she had been dying to write: Lola Grayson’s life story. Lola Grayson wanted to have it all: fame, fortune, and love. And for a time, she did have it all, until her unexpected death that shocked the world. It was both tragic and unexpected for someone so young and at the peak of their career. Joey had always been drawn to the charismatic young woman and wanted to know about her, who she really was, and what lay at the heart of her character. When an opportunity strikes in the form of Lola Grayson and Robert Taggart's former home in Los Angeles, Joey takes it, eager to get to know more of “The Siren” behind the scenes. Little does she know just how big her story will be, especially after uncovering several of Lola’s secrets that could change everything. Read The Girl Made of Stars by K.E. Le Veque to find out more.

The Girl Made of Stars by K.E. Le Veque was a captivating story that led me through an immersive and thought-provoking mystery. The narrative and characters were so descriptive, and the plot was full of twists that kept me guessing the more I read. The writing was lyrical and gripping; it pulled me deeper into the story with every chapter I finished. Following Joey Cabot as she discovered more and more of Lola Grayson’s past made me lose track of time. Every new secret Joey uncovered had me on the edge of my seat and excited for more. What truly made this novel stand out was its ability to evoke deep emotions in me: tears, laughter, and awe. The biggest twist of the plot actually had me screaming in shock. The Girl Made of Stars is a unique read that not only entertained me to the very end but also left a lasting impression. Great work!

Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite

The Other Side of Nothing by Anastasia Zadeik is a powerful and moving novel. It follows Julia Reeves, an eighteen-year-old, as she tries to find a way to escape from the pain and guilt that consume her. Her father made her believe in a world of beauty, poetry, grace, and second chances, but now he is gone forever. She failed once again to end the feelings of agonizing numbness and emptiness. Fortunately, Julia wants to believe in something again, so she decides to check herself into a psychiatric facility. Soon, she meets Sam Lorenzo, a 23-year-old suicide attempt survivor. Sam makes her believe in a future filled with beauty, no guilt, and one with him. Thus, she agrees when he asks her to see places, create things, and immortalize beauty together. She now believes they can save and fix each other. But will Julia be able to save Sam from himself?

The Other Side of Nothing is an insightful novel about loss, mental illness and its challenges, second chances, love, hope, and moving on. Anastasia Zadeik delivers some of the most interesting, in-depth, and thoughtfully crafted characters I've ever encountered, particularly Sam. This story reminds us that we can never truly know what's in the mind or soul of another person. It shows the importance of love, understanding, and acceptance within a family, asking for help when feeling overwhelmed, and talking openly about mental health. It explores the desire to live courageously, to control your own life, to accept who you are, and to choose your own path. This is one of those absorbing stories that leave a handprint on our hearts, and we can all learn something from it.

Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite

The Waypoints: From 400 Farewells and 3,000 Miles by Diane Gansauer is a remarkable read. While in her fifties, Diane decides to hike the Colorado Trail. Then, at sixty-one years old, she hikes the entire length of the Continental Divide Trail from Mexico to Canada. As a funeral celebrant, Diane has assisted many families with funerals and through their grief journey, helping them honor the lives of those who passed away in a meaningful way. Each chapter contains waypoints, magnificent pictures of cairns that she passed while walking the Continental Divide, the life stories of extraordinary people, and Diane's experiences in nature that give insights into what counts as a worthwhile life. Each life story reveals the principles the person built their life on, what they valued, what kind of person they became, and how they are remembered.

The Waypoints is an inspiring, extraordinary, and transformative work that awakens your soul to the wonder in this world. Diane Gansauer does a fantastic job of depicting her experience as a long-distance hiker and as an officiant at funerals, as well as honoring the essence of individuals and the sacredness of life transitions. This evocative read makes us contemplate what matters over time and reflect on our legacy. Anyone who wants to fall in love with life and nature again should read this book. It contains valuable life lessons about the importance of actively seeking out what is vital, getting rid of what doesn't serve you, cherishing little moments, persevering through challenges rather than moving quickly, and embracing both solitude and companionship, revealing what is good and stands the test of time.

Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite

Home at the Edge by Ronald Schulz is a thought-provoking memoir that chronicles the author's tumultuous journey as a young hippie. By the age of seventeen, Ron had dropped out of school, run away from home, and found himself arrested during the Days of Rage demonstration in October 1969 in Chicago. He had joined a radical group opposing the capitalist system and condemning the war in Southeast Asia. Unfortunately, after his release, he was sent to Riveredge, a mental hospital where he encountered suicidal patients and fellow rebels. Despite the anxiety of his upcoming court date, he engaged in meditation and sought connection in a world that felt increasingly alien to him. His conversations with other patients revealed their struggles and provided insight into the broader societal issues of that turbulent era.

Home at the Edge is a captivating story that takes readers on a wild ride. Ronald Schulz effectively conveys his inner struggles during his youth, intertwining personal experiences with wider societal themes. His honest reflections on rebellion, mental health, love, and the quest for identity will resonate deeply with readers, providing insight into the tumultuous atmosphere of the 1960s. The book is set against a backdrop of racial tensions, police brutality, substance use, and a period of enlightenment and transition. The narrative is conversational and flows smoothly, making it engaging and easy to read. The book is well-structured into three parts: Ron's time in prison, his hospitalization at Riveredge, and his reintegration into society. It provides readers with a deeper understanding of the author's personality, highlighting his intelligence and awareness of social challenges. I enjoyed reading this book and found it both informative and entertaining, striking a great balance between humor, spiritual growth, personal development, and commentary on societal issues.