Mar 29, 2025 | Editorial reviews, Interviews
Today, we’re talking with Phoenix J. Waldren about his book, Parenting Superkids with ADHD
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
Something unexpected about me is that, despite being a self-help and motivational author, I sometimes struggle with staying motivated myself. Like anyone else, I have moments of self-doubt and distraction, especially when juggling multiple projects. What keeps me grounded is the very advice I share with others, I lean on routines, small wins, and a strong sense of purpose to keep moving forward. It’s a humbling reminder that growth is a continuous process, even for those of us who write about it!
Why do you write?
I write self-help and motivational books because I have a deep desire to inspire and empower others, drawing from my personal experiences and challenges. My work reflects a passion for helping people overcome obstacles, discover their inner strength, and achieve their potential. Whether addressing ADHD, emotional resilience, or professional success, I aim to provide relatable, actionable strategies to transform lives. It’s not just about sharing knowledge but about creating meaningful connections and sparking positive change in others’ journeys.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
I got the inspiration for my current book from a combination of personal experiences, observations of challenges people face, and the desire to provide actionable solutions. I often draw from my own journey whether it’s overcoming obstacles, embracing personal growth, or learning from failures—and pair that with the insights I’ve gained through research, conversations, and real-life examples. My goal is always to address a need or provide clarity in areas where people are seeking guidance, which motivates me to turn those ideas into practical, impactful content.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
What I enjoy the most about my genre is the opportunity to make a real, positive impact on people’s lives. Writing self-help and motivational books allows me to connect with readers on a deeply personal level, offering them tools, encouragement, and perspectives that can help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals. I love turning complex ideas into relatable, actionable strategies and hearing how my words resonate with others. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my work can inspire hope, growth, and transformation in someone’s journey.
How would you describe your writing process?
I would describe my writing process as structured yet flexible, driven by bursts of creativity and guided by a clear vision. I start by brainstorming ideas and mapping out a framework to organize my thoughts. Research plays a key role, as I strive to back my insights with evidence and relatable examples. Once I have an outline, I dive into drafting, focusing on capturing the essence of my message while keeping the tone conversational and engaging.
I often revisit sections, refining my work to ensure it flows naturally and maintains a balance of practicality and inspiration. Writing for me involves moments of deep focus but also periods where I step away to reflect and let ideas percolate. It’s a mix of discipline, creativity, and a commitment to delivering value to my readers.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
Authors have much to gain from participating in social media, as it’s a powerful platform for building connections, growing an audience, and directly engaging with readers. It allows authors to build their personal brand by sharing their voice, personality, and insights, helping readers connect with them on a deeper level. Social media increases visibility, attracting new readers who might not have discovered their books otherwise. It also provides a unique opportunity to engage directly with fans, fostering a loyal and supportive community. Beyond promotion, authors can share updates, teasers, or behind-the-scenes looks at their writing process to spark excitement for their releases. Social media facilitates networking among writers, publishers, and industry professionals, thereby creating opportunities for collaborations and learning. By engaging with followers, authors can gather valuable feedback and inspiration for future projects, making social media a dynamic tool for staying relevant and connected in today’s digital world.
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What advice would you have for other writers?
My advice for other writers is to embrace the journey, stay authentic, and keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges. Write what truly resonates with you and trust that your unique perspective will find its audience. Don’t get bogged down by perfection just start writing and refine later. Consistency is key, so make time to write regularly, even if it’s just a little each day.
Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow writers and readers who can provide encouragement and constructive feedback. Be open to learning and evolving; read widely; study your craft; and don’t shy away from constructive criticism. Most importantly, believe in your voice and your message. Writing is as much about personal growth as it is about creating something meaningful for others, so enjoy the process and trust the impact your work can have.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
I select my books’ titles and covers through a blend of creativity, strategy, and audience focus. For the title, I aim for something that captures the essence of the book while being engaging, memorable, and clear about the book’s purpose. I often brainstorm multiple options, experimenting with phrasing that is both intriguing and resonates with my target audience. I also consider keywords and phrases that will make the title appealing and easy to find online.
When it comes to covers, I think about the emotions and themes I want the visuals to convey. I collaborate with designers or use feedback to ensure the cover is eye-catching and professional, aligning with the genre and appealing to readers at first glance. The goal is to create a cohesive package where the title and cover work together to draw readers in and instantly communicate the value of the book.
What’s your next step?
My next step is to focus on promoting my current books while continuing to develop new ideas that resonate with my audience. I plan to refine my marketing strategies, explore tools like Amazon ad automation, and engage more actively with readers on social media to build a stronger community around my work. I’m also aiming to finalize and launch my next book projects, such as Legacy by Design (Teen and Young Adult Rental Investment), ensuring its impactful and well-received.
Additionally, I’m looking into diversifying my offerings, whether through creating complementary content like workbooks, webinars, or even branching into new genres like thrillers or drawing books for kids. On a personal level, I’ll keep improving my writing craft, seeking out feedback, and learning new techniques to make my books even better. Every step is about building momentum and delivering value to my readers.
What book do you wish you’d written?
I love my niche of self-help, and it fulfills me to inspire and empower others, but I wish I had a mind for thriller books. Writing something like Invisible, a dark and gripping tale about a serial killer who uses candles as both a symbol and a weapon, would be an incredible challenge. The psychological intrigue, chilling narrative, and exploration of human nature in thrillers have always fascinated me, and I admire the ability to craft such intense and unforgettable stories.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
Seeing a new review for my book is always a mix of excitement and curiosity. If it’s a positive review, it fills me with gratitude and a sense of accomplishment, knowing that my words resonated with someone and made a difference in their life. If the feedback is constructive, I view it as an opportunity to learn and grow as an author. Every review, whether glowing or critical, reminds me that my work is reaching readers and sparking a reaction, which is ultimately why I write. It’s a humbling and motivating experience that keeps me striving to create content that connects and inspires.
FIND PHOENIX’S BOOK ON AMAZON
Mar 20, 2025 | Editorial reviews, Fantasy, International Review of Books, YA
Norbu’s Secret by Dana Klisanin is perfect for adventurous young readers and nostalgic adults who enjoy imaginative storytelling with a blend of excitement, innovation, and relatable challenges.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
You may live far from the rainforest, like the orchid bee is far from the flowers, but you are vital to the rainforest’s survival. Everyone has a role to play.
General Summary for Context:
A thrilling eco-adventure through the Amazon, brimming with mystery and danger.
Lexa, Jack, Sage, and Will embark on a perilous journey into the heart of the Amazon, determined to unravel the hidden connections between EverSave, an environmental protection agency; Thistleton Academy, an innovative eco-school; and Chronnite, a shadowy corporation linked to jaguar poaching.
Guided by Norbu, an apprentice at the future G.A.I.A. Headquarters, they follow a trail shaped by a secret use of the quantum actuator—an extraordinary device that enables him to reach out to the organization’s four founders. As the team delves deeper into the jungle, they find an invaluable ally in Remi, whose Achuar family runs a rainforest eco-lodge. With her knowledge of the land and its many perils, she becomes their compass through both the physical and moral challenges that await.
Fast-paced and immersive, this story blends environmental intrigue with high-stakes adventure, making for a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Concise Review:
This is a story I thoroughly enjoyed as an adult and would have absolutely loved as a child. Brimming with adventure, innovative gadgets, and intriguing dream connections, it weaves together excitement and a sense of hope.
What stood out to me was how the challenges of saving the planet weren’t just about confronting corporations or environmental threats but also included relatable struggles—like convincing their parents to let them go. This added a refreshing layer of realism to the narrative, making the story both engaging and authentic.
General Thoughts on the Novel:
I truly appreciated the story’s emphasis on interconnectedness. As climate change becomes an increasingly urgent issue, eco-anxiety is something I believe will affect more people over time. However, this book offers a refreshing and hopeful perspective, reminding us that even young people can play a vital role in protecting the planet.
Through its engaging narrative, it not only raises awareness but also inspires action, making it a meaningful and empowering read.
Find the book here on Amazon!
Feb 28, 2025 | Editorial reviews
The Third Estate: Secrets of the Manor is perfect for fans of fast-paced thrillers with intricate conspiracies, morally complex characters, and unpredictable twists that keep you second-guessing until the final reveal.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
A single decision, a moment in time, can change everything
General Summary for Context:
The Third Estate: Secrets of the Manor opens with Kai, a seasoned assassin, executing what should be just another job. But something about this kill unsettles him in a way he can’t explain.
Twelve years later, he’s assigned a new target—the husband of the very person he killed that night.
Meanwhile, Sophie, a dedicated cadet on the brink of graduating from flight academy, has spent the past four years pushing herself to be the best. But when she breaks protocol to save a fellow cadet, her future is suddenly in jeopardy. As she awaits the academy’s decision on her fate, devastating news reaches her—her adoptive father has died in an explosion.
Granted special permission to attend his memorial, Sophie soon realizes that something isn’t right. The details don’t add up. The deeper she looks, the more unsettling the truth becomes.
A mystery within a mystery, The Third Estate weaves intrigue, deception, and suspense into a gripping narrative where nothing is as it seems.
Concise Review:
Kai is an assassin, en route to complete another job—just like countless before. But something about this one feels… off. Fast forward twelve years, and he’s given a new mission, yet that same uneasy feeling lingers.
Meanwhile, Sophie is on the verge of graduating from flight academy, having dedicated years to becoming the best. But when she disobeys a direct order to save a fellow cadet, she jeopardizes everything—her career, her future, and her place in the academy. Just as she prepares to face the consequences, she receives devastating news: her adoptive father has died. Granted leave just before her final flight to attend his memorial, she arrives at the manor, where unsettling inconsistencies begin to surface. The more she digs, the more the truth unravels—until it all comes crashing down around her.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its structure. What first appear to be disconnected storylines gradually interweave, revealing a masterfully crafted puzzle that doesn’t fully snap into place until the final moments. A mystery within a mystery—secret organizations, assassins, military secrets, and a girl at the center of it all, too sharp for her own good yet completely unaware of the web of deception tightening around her.
Sophie is far from perfect, but that’s what makes her compelling. She’s flawed, impulsive, and rebellious, yet undeniably charming and full of grit. Despite being part of a rigid system, she refuses to be controlled, following her own code instead.
A thrilling mystery that keeps you constantly second-guessing, the novel delivers twists at every turn until you no longer know what to believe. And just when you think all the loose ends are tied up, the final reveal flips everything on its head—leaving you questioning everything you thought you knew.
General Thoughts on the Novel:
The Third Estate is a layered thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you have it figured out, a shocking twist pulls you in an entirely new direction, making for an unpredictable and exhilarating read.
Fast-paced and gripping from the very first page, the novel is written in a way that fully immerses you in its world. The characters are vividly developed, leaping off the page with depth and complexity—especially Sophie. Flawed yet fiercely determined, she’s the kind of protagonist you can’t help but root for.
A thrilling blend of mystery, military intrigue, and secret organizations, the novel masterfully weaves its elements together, culminating in a satisfying and compelling conclusion that leaves you wanting more.
Highly recommended for fans of military mysteries and high-stakes thrillers with a touch of covert intrigue.
Find the book here on Amazon!
Feb 18, 2025 | Editorial reviews
We recommend Shock Pepper to readers who enjoy unconventional, twist-filled novels that take time to unfold but ultimately deliver a gripping and immersive experience, particularly those who appreciate psychological suspense and high-stakes storytelling.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
It was a beautiful little girl, who looked almost like Kavitha, but not her (taken out of context) but heartbreaking, really, when you realize that her daughter was kidnapped and she mistakes a little girl for her own child, who is still missing.
General Summary for Context:
With multiple intertwining storylines, this novel is packed with intrigue, depth, and excitement. While each arc is compelling in its own right, I’ll focus on my favorite—though rest assured, there are plenty of others just as thrilling.
Sam is at rock bottom. Unemployed and drowning in debt, he’s on the verge of losing both his girlfriend (soon to be ex) and his grip on hope. With no money and no prospects, despair sets in. But just when things seem hopeless, his friend Adrian offers an unconventional solution—one that involves consulting a witch, falling into an indefinite slumber, and waking up armed with the tools for wealth and success. A foolproof plan… or is it?
Does this wild scheme actually work? That’s for you to find out. But one thing’s for sure—this novel delivers an unpredictable, exhilarating ride that keeps you hooked until the very end.
Concise Review:
At first, my mind was spinning. Just as I became engrossed in one storyline, the chapter would end, and a new one would begin with different characters and an entirely fresh plot. I had read the author’s note and knew this was intentional—but experiencing it firsthand was a unique and unexpected journey.
Once I adjusted to the rhythm of the narrative, I found myself appreciating the variety and depth each storyline brought to the book. The structure kept me engaged, always eager to see how each thread would unfold. The dialogue, at times, felt slightly unconventional, but within the distinctive world of Shock Pepper, it seemed to fit the characters and their surroundings. In the end, it added to the book’s charm rather than detracting from it.
Overall, the novel offers an intriguing, dynamic reading experience that keeps you on your toes. It’s a fascinating ride well worth taking!
General Thoughts on the Novel:
Unlike anything I’ve read before, this novel is refreshingly unique—eccentric, full of unexpected twists, and structured in a way that takes a few chapters to fully settle into. But once I did, I was completely captivated.
One storyline that particularly stood out to me was the gripping tale of a kidnapping. What begins as an innocent outing—a mother trusting a family friend to take her daughter out to play—quickly spirals into something far more sinister. I won’t spoil the details, but let’s just say the tension is palpable, and the stakes keep rising.
This book is an experience—one that pulls you into its unpredictable world and doesn’t let go. Step into Shock Pepper and see for yourself!
Find the book here on Amazon!
Jan 14, 2025 | Editors' Blog, Editorial reviews
We recommend Skeleton Trail for readers of sci-fi and gaming-inspired stories who enjoy unique concepts, immersive world-building, and a blend of action, mystery, and engaging characters.
General Summary for Context:
A unique and captivating story about Sam, who unexpectedly wakes up in a strange and unfamiliar world resembling the video games he adores. Confused and determined, Sam embarks on a thrilling quest to understand how he ended up in this virtual reality and, more importantly, how to win the game and return to the real world.
With its intriguing concept and well-paced narrative, this tale masterfully combines mystery, adventure, and a touch of nostalgia for gaming enthusiasts. A thoroughly enjoyable read for anyone who loves immersive and imaginative storytelling!
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Concise Review:
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Its unique concept sets it apart and makes it a truly captivating read. The integration of video game elements into the storyline adds an innovative and exciting layer that will appeal to gamers and non-gamers alike. The characters are richly developed and compelling, each contributing to the story in meaningful ways.
The world-building is exceptional, vividly bringing the game-like setting to life and immersing readers in its intricacies. The well-balanced pacing ensures the story flows smoothly, maintaining suspense and keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. This is a must-read for fans of creative, genre-blending fiction with a fresh perspective.
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General Thoughts on the Novel:
Undoubtedly one of the most unique books I’ve encountered in the sci-fi genre! This story masterfully combines a variety of engaging elements, from immersive gameplay and fascinating sci-fi concepts to an intriguing layer of conspiracy that keeps the reader guessing.
The writing is sharp and polished, bringing to life a cast of likable, well-drawn characters that are easy to connect with. The narrative held my attention from start to finish, with its perfect balance of action, mystery, and thoughtful world-building.
It’s a compelling read that not only entertains but also leaves you eager to dive into the next instalment of the series. Highly recommended for fans of innovative and multifaceted sci-fi!
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Skeleton Trail: The Gunfighter by Kevin Higgins is available on Amazon.
Dec 23, 2024 | Editorial reviews, Interviews
Today, we’re talking with Walter Broach about his book, Spiritual Energy and You
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I’m 86 years old
Why do you write?
It is fun. I like to research stuff and save it so it is easy for me to flesh it out into books.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
I will drop dead soon because I’m old. I’m curious about what happens after death. My next book will be about the material of which we are composed, where it came from, how we got it and what happens to it after death.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
I believe I enjoy doing research that interests me the most. I will read anything that comes into my view.
How would you describe your writing process?
I go to my desk and sit down. Then I started messing with my computer by playing a game of Solitaire. Then, I start researching or writing. Google has made the research easy. We don’t have to go to the library any more.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
It is good for their brain because they get to see lots of viewpoints.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Write and read. If you want to write, do it. The more you do it, the better you get at it.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
I do a short title that is descriptive of the genre of the book and then a longer subtitle telling what the book is about, Then I have someone else do the cover because I want the book to look good.
What’s your next step?
To write at least one more book. I’m excited about it. It will be about life before we were born and after we die.
What book do you wish you’d written?
No book not mine. I love reading other peoples stuff, I learn from them.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
I love to read them.
FIND WALTER’S BOOK ON AMAZON
