Books & Literature News
Former CHRO Asks: Should We Eliminate HR? New Book “The HR Trap” Confronts an Uncomfortable Leadership Crisis We’ve Agreed to Ignore
Kristin Berkinsky, a former Chief Human Resources Officer and current Strategic Human Capital Consultant with more than 30 years of experience advising boards, private equity sponsors and executive teams across life sciences, financial services and high-growth environments, today announced the release of her new book, The HR Trap . Available on Amazon and in audiobook format, the book offers a provocative challenge to one of the most entrenched assumptions in modern business: that companies need an HR function at all. The book opens with a deliberately uncomfortable question. What if eliminating HR is not reckless, but rational? Berkinsky argues that the HR function has slowly absorbed the responsibilities that real leadership requires, including difficult conversations, performance accountability, coaching and culture enforcement. The result is a generation of executives who have outsourced the human work of management, and an HR profession buckling under the weight of leadership gaps that were never theirs to fill. “HR didn’t aggressively seize these responsibilities,” Berkinsky writes. “They accumulated them as leaders delegated discomfort, boards demanded control and regulators required documentation. Someone had to manage it, so HR did.” Three Crises Converging on the C-Suite The HR Trap arrives at a critical moment for business leadership. Berkinsky identifies three connected crises hitting organizations simultaneously: The CEO Succession Crisis. Boards across industries report a shortage of CEO-ready candidates, with research spanning ten years and seventeen thousand C-suite executives showing that companies have systematically misunderstood what predicts CEO success while HR leaders, who possess many of the very capabilities boards now say they want, remain largely excluded from succession pipelines. Leadership in an AI World. As artificial intelligence reshapes operational work, the human dimensions of leadership become harder to automate and more valuable, yet many organizations have invested in technology while underinvesting in the judgment and courage that technology cannot replicate. CHRO Burnout. A striking 95% of HR leaders report feeling burned out, with CHRO turnover consistently outpacing every other C-suite role. The profession is collapsing under the weight of leadership work that arguably should never have been assigned to it. “These three crises are not separate,” Berkinsky writes. “They are symptoms of the same underlying issue. Leadership has not kept pace with the complexity of modern organizations.” A Call to Reclaim the Work of Leadership The HR Trap is not an attack on HR professionals. It is a direct challenge to CEOs, founders, boards and executive teams to take back the human side of leading people. Berkinsky walks readers through a practical framework for redistributing responsibility across the organization, separating the work that should be automated, the work that should be reassigned and the work that genuinely belongs to leaders themselves. The book closes with four possible futures for HR, including its evolution into an on-demand strategic capability, a talent factory for future CEOs and a redefined business partnership grounded in clarity rather than catch-all responsibility. About the Author Kristin Berkinsky has served as Chief Human Resources Officer across multiple sectors, advising leadership teams during mergers and acquisitions, rapid scaling and complex organizational change. She has worked closely with executive teams, boards, private equity sponsors and investors, and has acted formally and informally as Chief of Staff in several organizations. Her work focuses on building human capital strategies that increase enterprise value and aligning talent infrastructure with business strategy. The HR Trap is available now on Amazon in paperback, Kindle and audiobook formats. ### Media Inquiries For interview requests, review copies or speaking engagements, contact publishing@bookspert.com.
Micah Maxwell Releases First Book, Decision Point
ONE OF ST. PAUL’S GREAT FORGOTTEN STORIES COMES HOME
Colorado Author Brandon W. Boyd Releases UNDOMESTICATED, a Field Guide for Men Navigating Identity and Personal Transformation
- August 14, 2026Books & Literature
ONE OF ST. PAUL’S GREAT FORGOTTEN STORIES COMES HOME The St. Paul Phantom Resurrects Boxing Legends Mike and Tommy Gibbons
Before Madison Square Garden, national headlines, and boxing immortality, there was St. Paul. On September 15, author, historian, filmmaker, and Gibbons-family descendant Dr. Gerard Gibbons will publish The St. Paul Phantom: The Gibbons Brothers’ Fight for Glory, Volume I, a sweeping work of illustrated narrative nonfiction about legendary St. Paul brothers Mike and Tommy Gibbons . From the immigrant neighborhoods of Frogtown, Mike and Tommy rose from poverty and prejudice to become internationally celebrated fighters known as the “Shining Knights of the Ring.” Their story stretches far beyond boxing, unfolding against immigration, race, faith, family, women’s suffrage, World War I, the 1918 influenza pandemic, and the birth of modern media and celebrity culture. Their world includes Jack Johnson, Joe Gans, Sam Langford, Theodore Roosevelt, Harry Houdini, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nellie Bly, Grantland Rice, Damon Runyon, and many others. And now their descendant is bringing their story home. A ST. PAUL HOMECOMING Dr. Gibbons is Tommy Gibbons’ grandson and Mike Gibbons’ great-nephew . The Gibbons family arrived in St. Paul from Ireland in 1884, beginning nearly 150 years of family history in Minnesota. To honor that legacy, Dr. Gibbons will return to St. Paul and the Twin Cities September 12–19, 2026 , for a week-long Gibbons Brothers Homecoming and Book Launch surrounding the book’s September 15 publication. Launch-week plans include author appearances, readings, book signings, multimedia historical presentations, interviews, community-history programs, classroom and book-club visits, and other special events. The full itinerary is currently being finalized. Dr. Gibbons is available for print, digital, radio, television, podcast, and in-person interviews , as well as reviews, profiles, historical features, event previews, and launch-week coverage. FROM FROGTOWN TO BOXING’S GOLDEN AGE At the center of the book is Mike “The St. Paul Phantom” Gibbons, one of boxing’s most cerebral and elusive fighters. Rather than relying on brute force, Mike helped perfect a dazzling style of “scientific boxing” based on movement, timing, defense, and strategy. His younger brother Tommy followed him into the ring, and together they became two of St. Paul’s most celebrated athletes. Their development was also shaped by their PRIESTS, ARCHBISHOP JOHN IRELANDt, Archbishop John Ireland, Monsignor John Dunphy; their work for James J. Hill, founder of Great Northern Railway; the tutelage of Engine Station No. 1's Fire Chief Hugh J. McFayden; sportswriting virtuoso George A. Barton; and pioneering Black champions Joe Gans, Jack Johnson, and Sam Langford, whose brilliance left an enduring mark on the sport and the Gibbons brothers even as racial barriers restricted their opportunities. The brothers’ quest carries readers from St. Paul gyms and outlaw prizefights to Madison Square Garden, Havana, wartime military camps, and boxing’s great arenas. During World War I, Mike’s innovative boxing instruction became part of military training as three-million American soldiers prepared for combat overseas. Yet beneath the spectacle is a deeply human story of brotherhood, faith, ambition, romance, family pressure, resilience, and the costs of pursuing the American Dream. A FAMILY STORY RECOVERED FROM THE ARCHIVES Drawing on never-before-seen family archives and thousands of historical sources, Dr. Gibbons spent years reconstructing both the lives of Mike and Tommy and the St. Paul world that shaped them. “This isn’t just a sports story. It’s an American story,” says Gibbons. “It’s about family, belief, reinvention, and the fight to become something greater than your circumstances.” Arriving during America’s 250th-anniversary year, The St. Paul Phantom explores issues that remain strikingly current: immigration, race, class, masculinity, women’s rights, media power, celebrity, war, pandemic, faith, and economic uncertainty. It also asks a distinctly local question: How do people who once filled arenas and dominated headlines disappear from the collective memoryof the city that created them? The September homecoming aims to change that. MEDIA & INTERVIEW TOPICS Dr. Gibbons is available to discuss: ● Forgotten St. Paul and the city that produced the Gibbons brothers ● Boxing as the birthplace of modern sports celebrity ● Jack Johnson, Joe Gans, Sam Langford, and the color line ● Immigration, faith, family, and the American Dream ● World War I and Mike Gibbons’ role in military boxing instruction ● F. Scott Fitzgerald and St. Paul sporting culture ● Genealogy, family archives, and recovering lost history ● Why boxing history can reveal the history of America ADVANCE PRAISE “An ELECTRIFYING AND INSPIRING rendition of the American Dream.” —The U.S. Review of Books “An EPIC AMERICAN ODYSSEY… Unforgettable characters, epic slugfests, and fascinating historical cameos.” —Self-Publishing Review “A HIGH-VELOCITY work of narrative history, full of heart, soul, and fury.” —Steve Hockensmith, bestselling author “The kind of true story Hollywood spends years looking for.” —Paul Tamasy, Oscar-nominated screenwriter/producer, The Fighter “LIVELY, WONDERFULLY VIVID, TRULY ENGAGING.” —Kirkus Reviews BOOK INFORMATION Title: The St. Paul Phantom: The Gibbons Brothers’ Fight for Glory, Volume I Author: Dr. Gerard Gibbons Publisher: Fight for Glory Press Publication Date: September 15, 2026 Twin Cities Homecoming & Book Launch : September 12–19, 2026 Formats: Hardcover, paperback, eBook, audiobook Website: FightForGloryStory.com Digital Press Kit: https://bit.ly/4cq0zy0 The press kit includes an Advance Reader Copy, author bio and Q&A, advance praise, historical background, and high-resolution archival photographs and illustrations for media use. Review copies, interviews, images, and launch-week media opportunities are available upon request. MEDIA CONTACT Todd Aaron Jensen Media Contact | Fight for Glory ToddAaronJensen@gmail.com FightForGloryStory.com Dr. Gerard Gibbons will be in St. Paul and the Twin Cities September 12–19, 2026. Interview requests are now being scheduled.
- August 11, 2026Books & Literature
The Final Convergence Announces “What Is Truth?” as First Book in Scripture Focused Discernment Series
When Every Voice Claims Authority, Menno Zweers Asks Christians To Test Everything The hardest questions are rarely the ones nobody is asking. They are the ones everyone assumes have already been settled. For Christians navigating podcasts, sermons, social media, denominational traditions, theological debates, and an endless stream of competing interpretations, knowing what to believe can become almost as difficult as knowing where to begin. In that environment, Menno Zweers is taking a deliberately different approach with The Final Convergence , a growing book series centered on a deceptively simple proposition: when Christian claims conflict, what standard should settle the question? That question gives the series its deeper significance. Rather than positioning another personality as the final authority, The Final Convergence asks readers to return to the source that Christianity itself claims to recognize as authoritative: Scripture. The Problem Is Not A Lack Of Christian Content There has never been a shortage of Christian material. Readers can find books on doctrine, prophecy, spiritual growth, apologetics, church history, discernment, and nearly every theological question imaginable. Yet abundance does not necessarily produce clarity. Sometimes it creates the opposite. The modern Christian reader is often confronted with several voices making competing claims, each supported by selected passages, respected teachers, historical traditions, or denominational assumptions. The challenge is no longer simply finding information. It is learning how to evaluate information. That is where Zweers places the emphasis. The Final Convergence is structured around a method of examination rather than a personality driven platform. Its central premise is that difficult questions should ultimately be brought back to Scripture and tested there. The approach sounds straightforward. Applying it consistently is considerably more demanding. What Happens When Familiar Answers Are Reexamined? The tension behind the series comes from a question many believers eventually encounter: What if an answer is familiar without actually being biblical? That question can be uncomfortable because religious beliefs are rarely held in isolation. They can be connected to family, community, church experience, trusted teachers, and years of personal conviction. Reexamining one belief can therefore feel like questioning an entire framework. Zweers makes that tension part of the reading experience. Instead of asking readers to accept his conclusions because of his credentials or reputation, the series repeatedly directs attention toward the biblical text. The reader is expected to examine the argument, consider the context, compare passages, and reach a conclusion based on Scripture. That makes the books less about discovering what Menno Zweers believes and more about examining whether a particular belief can withstand biblical scrutiny. For readers interested in discernment, that distinction changes the nature of the conversation. The First Question Comes Before Every Other Question The first volume, What Is Truth?: Unshakable Truth in a Post-Truth World: A Sola Scriptura Stand Against Relativism, Emotion, and Misinterpretation , establishes the conceptual starting point for the larger project. Its importance is not simply that it addresses truth as a subject. It asks what happens when people begin with different definitions of truth and then use those definitions to interpret the Bible. The question becomes foundational. Before discussing doctrine, prophecy, deception, or competing Christian movements, a reader has to establish what qualifies as an authoritative answer. Without that foundation, even sincere biblical discussion can become an exercise in selecting passages that support an existing position. The book therefore introduces the principle that shapes the wider series: Scripture should not merely be used to decorate an argument. It should be allowed to determine the argument. That is a much more demanding standard. A Series Designed For Readers Who Are Willing To Reconsider The intended audience is not necessarily the person searching for another confirmation of what they already believe. It is the reader who has questions. Perhaps that reader has encountered conflicting interpretations and wants to know why they differ. Perhaps they have become uncomfortable with explanations that seem to depend more heavily on tradition than on the biblical text. Or perhaps they simply want a disciplined way to examine Christian claims without assuming that popularity equals truth. That creates a different kind of reading experience. The goal is not to make uncertainty disappear through another authoritative personality. Instead, The Final Convergence encourages readers to develop the habit of testing claims for themselves. In an age when online influence can make familiarity look like credibility, that emphasis on examination is increasingly relevant. From A Book Series To A Larger Conversation The architecture of The Final Convergence also gives the project room to develop beyond its opening volume. Future books across the series explore subjects including the gospel, biblical authority, discernment, deception, prophecy, and the end times. Although those subjects can stand independently, they are connected by the same underlying question: How should Christians evaluate what they are being taught? That creates a cumulative framework. The objective is not simply to produce separate books about separate theological topics. The larger project seeks to establish a consistent approach that readers can carry from one subject to another. If that method works, its value extends beyond the individual books. A reader can apply the same discipline to a sermon, a social media claim, a popular theological argument, or a familiar interpretation. The real product, then, is not merely information. It is a standard for examination. The Question Worth Carrying Forward Every generation of Christians inherits voices that claim to explain what Scripture means. Some become influential because of scholarship. Others gain attention through charisma, publishing, media, or institutional authority. But influence and truth are not necessarily the same thing. That is the question at the heart of Menno Zweers' The Final Convergence . Its challenge is not simply to read another Christian book. It is to reconsider how Christian claims are evaluated in the first place. For readers who want to explore that question, What Is Truth? provides the starting point for the series. From there, The Final Convergence invites readers into a broader examination of Scripture, discernment, and the standards used to determine what should be believed. Explore The Final Convergence through its official channels and begin with What Is Truth? on Amazon . Readers can also follow the project across Instagram , Facebook , Tiktok , X and YouTube to discover new volumes, biblical discussions, and developments in the series. For direct inquiries you may contact them at menno@thefinalconvergence.com .
- August 6, 2026Books & Literature
Gary Erickson Releases New Job Search Guide for Today's Job Market
Executive Search Partners announced the release of The Interview Is Not About You, a Comprehensive Guide to Landing Your Next Great Role, a new career development book by founder Gary Erickson. The book is available in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions on Amazon and is supported by additional resources at The Interview Is Not About You . Written for professionals preparing for a career move, the guide presents a structured system for resumes, networking, interviewing, follow-up, and salary negotiation. A Recruiter Perspective on the Hiring Table Erickson developed the book from more than four decades of work across technology leadership, executive management, and recruiting. His career includes work as a computer programmer at Ford Motor Company, service as a three-time chief information officer, founding Great Lakes Technologies Group, and leading Executive Search Partners, an IT-focused executive search firm. That background gives the book a practical point of view on how employers evaluate candidates after interviews conclude. The book focuses on a central idea: the job search process is not primarily about the candidate seeking approval. It is about understanding the employer need and communicating how the candidate can solve a defined business problem. Erickson presents this shift as a way to reduce uncertainty during a search while helping candidates organize their message around measurable value. Award-Winning Career Guidance Gary Erickson's practical approach has also earned industry recognition. The Interview Is Not About You: A Comprehensive Guide to Landing Your Next Great Role was honored with the Best Job Search Book in Detroit, MI of 2026 by Best of Best Review. The award recognizes educational resources that demonstrate excellence, innovation, and real-world impact, highlighting the book's unique combination of more than four decades of executive recruiting expertise, modern job search strategies, and actionable guidance that helps professionals replace uncertainty with confidence. This recognition further reinforces the book's reputation as a trusted resource for anyone looking to gain a competitive edge in today's job market. A 12-Step System for Career Transitions The Interview Is Not About You is organized as a 12-step system across four stages: preparation, marketing, interviewing, and closing the deal. The preparation stage helps readers build a clear career narrative, develop a resume that functions as a marketing document, and establish the themes they want employers to remember. The marketing stage covers strategic networking and a LinkedIn profile that is easier for recruiters to interpret. The interviewing section includes guidance on developing a 30-second professional commercial, using the problem, action, result framework to answer questions, and preparing for difficult interview topics. The closing stage covers trial close techniques, follow-up timing, and negotiation strategy. Erickson also includes resume templates, job-search tools, sample interview questions, and a weekly tracker designed to support consistency during a search. Updated for Current Search Practices The 2026 release also addresses changes in job searching, including the use of artificial intelligence tools for research, resume refinement, and interview preparation. Erickson does not present AI as a substitute for a candidate judgment or experience. Instead, the book describes ways to use AI to accelerate preparation while keeping the final message personal, accurate, and focused on employer priorities. One feature highlighted in the book is the “In-Resume” cover letter, a method credited to Erickson that integrates cover letter positioning directly into the resume structure. The goal is to make the candidate value proposition easier to identify when hiring managers and recruiters are reviewing multiple applicants. The book also explains how a resume can be tailored without losing accuracy or becoming overly generic. Guidance Informed by Executive Search Executive Search Partners, available at execsearchpartners.com , works in the technology and executive recruiting space. Erickson applies that search experience to explain what often happens behind the scenes after interviews. The book describes how decision makers compare candidates, debrief with hiring teams, and assess confidence, preparation, relevance, and fit. “The job search changes when candidates stop asking whether they are liked and start asking how they can help the employer solve a specific problem,” said Gary Erickson, author and founder of Executive Search Partners. “The purpose of the book is to give people a repeatable system so they can prepare with discipline and communicate with more clarity.” Early Reader Response and Availability Early reader feedback has emphasized the book practical format and direct connection to job search execution. Public reader comments include reviews from professionals who noted its guidance on preparation, AI tools, networking, and offer negotiation. Additional reader feedback is available through the book listing and Amazon customer reviews . The book is intended for professionals at different stages of a career search, including those considering a transition, actively interviewing, or preparing for future advancement. Its framework places emphasis on preparation before outreach, structured communication during interviews, and disciplined follow-up after each employer conversation. A Practical Framework for Reducing Search Anxiety Job searching can create uncertainty when candidates do not know what hiring managers are seeking or how decisions are made. Erickson addresses that challenge by giving readers a defined sequence of actions. The book takes common job search tasks, such as writing a resume, contacting a network, answering interview questions, and negotiating an offer, and places them in a process that can be repeated. The announcement comes as professionals continue to navigate changing hiring conditions, evolving recruiting technology, and more competitive application processes. By focusing on employer needs, business problems, and measurable contribution, The Interview Is Not About You offers a method for candidates to approach the search with structure rather than speculation. About Executive Search Partners Executive Search Partners is an executive search and recruiting firm founded by Gary Erickson. The firm focuses on information technology leadership and professional recruiting, drawing on Erickson extensive background as a technology executive, business founder, and search consultant. Erickson is also a founding member and former President of the Detroit SIM chapter. You can email directly to gerickson@ericksonpartners.com .
- August 5, 2026Books & Literature
Bluestone Group CEO Lauren Thew Announces Book
Bluestone Group announced that Lauren D. Thew, President and CEO of the Charlotte-based technical staff augmentation firm, has released her first book, Stop Talking. Start Listening.: A Field Guide for Leaders Who Think They Already Know How. Published in 2026, the book is the first installment in the Bluestone Blackout: Leadership Overload series and draws from Thew’s nearly two decades of experience leading teams in military, corporate, and technical workforce settings. “Listening has shaped every major decision in my career,” said Lauren Thew, President and CEO of Bluestone Group. “In the Army and in the energy sector, missing the quiet signal can create real risk. This book was written for leaders who want to slow down enough to hear what their teams, clients, and conditions are already telling them.” A Leadership Framework Built in High-Stakes Environments Thew’s leadership background began before her formal military service, when she started managing people at age 17. Her approach was further shaped as a member of the U.S. Army Military Police, where she served two tours in Iraq and was named Soldier of the Year. Those experiences introduced leadership lessons grounded in discipline, observation, preparation, and accountability, themes that continue throughout the new book. Stop Talking. Start Listening. presents listening not as a passive interpersonal habit, but as an operational leadership skill. The book argues that leaders often have access to the information needed to make better decisions, yet miss critical insight because they enter conversations focused on giving direction rather than gathering context. Thew applies that premise to both combat settings and corporate environments, where risk, timing, and team trust can affect outcomes. The book combines memoir, leadership field notes, and practical reflection. Rather than offering a generalized workplace manual, it traces specific lessons from Iraq, executive decision-making, and company building. The result is a leadership text centered on the idea that useful intelligence is often already present inside the organization, particularly among the people closest to daily operations. From Military Service to Energy Workforce Leadership After her military service, Thew transitioned into the private sector and later founded Bluestone Group, a technical staff augmentation firm serving the nuclear, Department of Energy, and broader energy sectors. The company works with utilities and DOE contractors in industries that require specialized technical talent, strict compliance, and safety-focused execution. In these settings, communication failures can have consequences that extend beyond ordinary business delays. Bluestone Group is certified as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned, Veteran-Owned, and Woman-Owned business. Its work centers on helping energy organizations meet staffing needs in environments where technical qualifications, schedule demands, and safety requirements must align. Thew’s experience in these sectors informs the book’s emphasis on listening as a practical tool for reducing blind spots and improving decision quality. Thew also serves as President of Client Solutions and Recruiting at BCP Engineers & Consultants. Her professional background includes membership in the Forbes Business Council and recognition by the American Nuclear Society with the E. Gail de Planque Medal, an honor awarded for distinguished contributions to nuclear energy. These roles and recognitions provide context for the book’s focus on leadership in technical, regulated, and mission-driven environments. More information about Stop Talking. Start Listening. is available through the Bluestone Group book page . Professional updates related to Thew’s leadership work can also be found through Lauren Thew’s LinkedIn profile and the Bluestone Group LinkedIn page . You can email directly to Lauren@BluestoneGo.com The Case for Listening as a Competitive Skill The book’s central argument is that many leaders overestimate how well they listen. According to Thew’s framework, the most important information in a room is not always delivered by the loudest voice or the most senior person. It may come from a technician, recruiter, field employee, project manager, or client contact who notices early warning signs before they appear in formal reports. This perspective is especially relevant to industries facing talent shortages, technical complexity, and generational workforce change. In energy, nuclear, engineering, and government contracting sectors, organizations often depend on experienced professionals whose knowledge is difficult to replace. Thew’s book suggests that leaders who listen carefully to those employees can identify process gaps, retention risks, and operational constraints before they become more serious issues. Stop Talking. Start Listening. also addresses a common leadership tension: the belief that authority requires constant answers. The challenges that assumption by framing silence, inquiry, and observation as active leadership behaviors. Her field guide approach encourages leaders to examine how often they interrupt, explain, defend, or redirect conversations before a team member has fully presented the relevant facts. A New Series on Leadership Overload Stop Talking. Start Listening. is introduced as Book One of the Bluestone Blackout: Leadership Overload series. The series title reflects the pressure many leaders face when operating with too much information, too little context, and limited time for reflection. The first book narrows that concern to the act of listening, positioning it as a discipline that can help leaders manage complexity without relying only on speed or hierarchy. Thew’s message is informed by the contrast between military service and business leadership. While the two environments differ, both require leaders to assess risk, understand people, and act with incomplete information. Her book suggests that leaders improve those assessments when they create room for accurate input from others, especially when the input complicates their initial assumptions. The release adds to Thew’s broader work at Bluestone Group, where technical recruiting, client solutions, and workforce strategy intersect with safety-critical energy operations. Through the book, Thew extends that experience into a public leadership discussion aimed at executives, managers, founders, recruiters, and professionals responsible for high-consequence decisions. About Bluestone Group Bluestone Group is a Charlotte, North Carolina-based technical staff augmentation firm serving the nuclear, Department of Energy, and broader energy sectors. Founded by Lauren D. Thew, the company is certified as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned, Veteran-Owned, and Woman-Owned business. Bluestone Group supports utilities, DOE contractors, and technical organizations with staffing solutions designed for specialized and safety-focused environments.
- August 5, 2026Books & Literature
Samantha Martí-Parisi Expands Historical Storytelling Programs to Reach More Venues and Audiences, Brings Forgotten Stories to Life
Award-winning performer, writer, and cultural storyteller Samantha Martí-Parisi has announced an expansion of her historical storytelling programs, broadening opportunities for libraries, museums, theaters, cultural organizations, universities, festivals, and cruise enrichment programs to host her immersive performances. The expansion reflects growing demand for engaging educational experiences that combine rigorous historical research with theatrical performance, creating memorable programs that inspire audiences of all ages. When Martí-Parisi steps onto a stage, she’s inviting audiences to meet remarkable people from history as though they had just walked into the room. Through a unique blend of historical research, theatrical performance, and audience engagement, the award-winning performer, writer, and cultural storyteller is redefining how audiences experience history. Her collection of original programs brings overlooked people, forgotten moments, and fascinating cultural traditions to life for libraries, museums, theaters, cultural organizations, festivals, universities, and cruise enrichment audiences. Every program begins with meticulous historical research, but it comes alive through performance. “I don’t simply present historical facts,” Martí-Parisi says. “I bring compelling people and their stories back into the room.” Her programs range from Women of the Waves , which brings pirate queen Ching Shih and Victorian explorer Mary Kingsley to the stage, to Cocoa Confidential , tracing chocolate's journey from Aztec ceremonial drink to European obsession. She also offers solo portrayals of extraordinary historical figures, including the 17th-century duelist La Maupin, Civil War surgeon Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, and fossil hunter Mary Anning. Through a blend of historical research, theatrical storytelling, narration, and first-person performance, Martí-Parisi transforms history into engaging live experiences that entertain as much as they educate. In an era increasingly shaped by streaming services, social media, and endless digital content, Martí-Parisi believes there is still something irreplaceable about gathering together for a live performance. “My work isn't about standing behind a podium,” she explains. “It’s about creating shared experiences. Whether I'm performing in a theater, speaking aboard a cruise ship, or presenting at a library or museum, my goal isn't just to inform, it’s to spark curiosity, conversation, and genuine human connection.” Her expanding repertoire of flexible historical presentations is designed for venues of every size, from intimate library gatherings and museum lecture series to theater performances, festivals, universities, and cruise enrichment programs. Every presentation is carefully crafted to educate, entertain, and inspire while giving organizations the flexibility to present standalone performances, themed series, or multi-day enrichment experiences. Optional audience discussions and question-and-answer sessions further extend the educational experience and encourage meaningful dialogue. The expansion also reflects Martí-Parisi’s own journey of reinvention. A mother of three, she reached a point familiar to many people who find themselves asking, “What comes next?” Rather than leaving behind the passions that had shaped her life, she combined her lifelong love of theatre, history, storytelling, travel, and education into an entirely new career. “I spent years believing I wasn't a solo performer, but stepping onto the stage alone helped me discover the stories I was truly meant to tell,” Martí-Parisi says. “It’s never too late to reinvent yourself, or to discover stories that change the way we see ourselves. Curiosity isn’t something we’re supposed to outgrow. In fact, it's one of the greatest gifts we can carry throughout our lives.” Martí-Parisi’s work draws upon her background as an actor, writer, educator, and communications professional while emphasizing audience participation and emotional connection. She moves beyond traditional academic presentations by creating theatrical experiences that encourage attendees to see historical figures as complex individuals whose challenges, triumphs, and ambitions remain strikingly relevant today. Her artistic accomplishments continue to gain recognition throughout the performing arts community. Martí-Parisi received the 2025 BroadwayWorld Tampa Awards for both Best Performer in a Play and Best Cabaret/Concert/Solo Performance for her portrayal in Red Hot Patriot: The Kick-Ass Wit of Molly Ivins. Her original productions have also been featured at the Tampa International Fringe Festival, further establishing her reputation for creating engaging historical performances that combine scholarship with theatrical excellence. Curiosity-driven storytelling remains at the heart of Martí-Parisi's work. Each presentation reflects extensive historical research paired with theatrical craftsmanship, offering audiences experiences that are both intellectually enriching and emotionally memorable. By highlighting voices history has too often overlooked, she demonstrates how the lessons of the past continue to illuminate the present and inspire the future. As her work expands to new cultural institutions and international enrichment opportunities, Martí-Parisi remains guided by a simple belief: history isn't only about understanding the past, it’s about inspiring what comes next. “People often assume history belongs in textbooks or museums,” Martí-Parisi says. “I believe it belongs wherever people gather to listen. Whether it’s a theater, a library, a cruise ship, or a community center, stories have the power to remind us that curiosity has no expiration date. It’s never too late to begin a new chapter.” For booking inquiries and a full list of available programs, visit SamanthaMartiParisi.com
- August 5, 2026Books & Literature
Stacey Soans: Toronto Professional Golfer, Published Author, and Executive Contributor Launches First Book, Fairways & Femininity
Professional golfer, published author, executive Human Resources leader, and Executive Contributor for Brainz Magazine, Stacey Soans continues to build a distinguished career at the intersection of business, leadership, golf, and media. Through her published book, Fairways & Femininity , Stacey Soans offers readers a unique perspective on how the principles of golf can shape stronger leaders, more resilient professionals, and more confident individuals. Released on May 1, 2025 , Fairways & Femininity reflects Stacey Soans' belief that success extends beyond technical skill. Whether navigating the fairways of a golf course or the complexities of corporate leadership, the same qualities, discipline, resilience, integrity, patience, and strategic thinking, consistently separate exceptional performers from the rest. Based in Toronto, Canada , Stacey Soans has established a multifaceted career that combines executive leadership, professional golf, publishing, media, and modeling. Rather than limiting herself to a single profession, she has intentionally built a career that demonstrates the value of lifelong learning, adaptability, and pursuing excellence across multiple industries. A graduate of the University of Toronto , Stacey Soans credits her academic foundation with strengthening the analytical thinking, communication, and leadership skills that have supported her professional journey. Her education, combined with years of executive Human Resources experience, has allowed her to advise organizations, develop talent, and understand the leadership qualities that drive long-term success. These same principles became the inspiration behind Fairways & Femininity . Unlike traditional golf books focused solely on technique, Fairways & Femininity uses golf as a powerful metaphor for business, career development, mindset, and performance. Through practical lessons and relatable experiences, Stacey Soans demonstrates how the challenges faced on the golf course often mirror the decisions professionals make throughout their careers. The book explores several key themes, including: Building confidence through preparation and consistency. Developing resilience in the face of setbacks and adversity. Leadership lessons learned both on and off the golf course. Strategic networking and the importance of authentic relationships. Emotional intelligence under pressure. Personal branding and professional credibility. Goal setting, discipline, and long-term success. Maintaining integrity while navigating competitive environments. Each chapter encourages readers to think beyond golf itself, illustrating how everyday decisions, calculated risks, perseverance, and continuous improvement contribute to meaningful success in both business and life. As a professional golfer , Stacey Soans continues to promote the sport as more than a recreational activity. She believes golf creates unique opportunities for relationship building, mentorship, business development, and leadership. Throughout her career, she has advocated for greater accessibility and participation in golf while highlighting the personal and professional benefits the game offers. Beyond the golf course, Stacey Soans has developed an accomplished career in executive Human Resources, working with organizations to support strategic business initiatives, leadership development, organizational growth, and employee engagement. Her experience within corporate leadership provides a practical perspective that complements the themes explored throughout Fairways & Femininity . In addition to her work in business and golf, Stacey Soans serves as an Executive Contributor for Brainz Magazine , where she publishes articles focused on leadership, career advancement, workplace culture, resilience, professional development, and personal branding. Through her writing, she shares actionable insights that empower professionals, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders to achieve sustainable success while remaining authentic to their values. Her contributions continue to reach an international audience seeking thoughtful perspectives on leadership, business strategy, career growth, and the evolving workplace. Stacey Soans has also established herself within the professional modeling industry, collaborating with respected brands while demonstrating that professionalism, confidence, and personal branding extend across multiple disciplines. Her career reflects the evolving nature of modern leadership, where expertise, creativity, communication, and authenticity work together to build a lasting professional reputation. Looking ahead, Stacey Soans plans to expand the reach of Fairways & Femininity through speaking engagements, media interviews, educational initiatives, and future publications. She remains committed to encouraging professionals to embrace resilience, lifelong learning, and purposeful leadership while inspiring more women to pursue opportunities within the game of golf. As both an author and business professional, Stacey Soans believes success is not defined by a single accomplishment but by a commitment to continuous growth, meaningful relationships, and creating a positive impact on others. With an expanding portfolio that spans executive leadership, professional golf, publishing, and media, Stacey Soans continues to establish herself as a respected voice in business and personal development while inspiring readers to approach both their careers and their lives with confidence, integrity, and purpose. About Stacey Soans Stacey Soans is a Toronto, Canada-based professional golfer, published author, executive Human Resources leader, Executive Contributor for Brainz Magazine, and professional model. She is the author of Fairways & Femininity , published on May 1, 2025, which explores the connection between golf, leadership, business strategy, networking, and personal development. The book is available through Amazon, Indigo Chapters, Barnes & Noble, and other major booksellers. A graduate of the University of Toronto , Stacey Soans continues to inspire professionals through her writing, media contributions, and commitment to excellence across business, sport, and leadership. The book is available on Amazon: Amazon Canada: https://www.amazon.ca/Fairways-Femininity-Modern-Womans-Guide/dp/1069602434 Amazon United States: https://www.amazon.com/Fairways-Femininity-Modern-Womans-Guide-ebook/dp/B0F7GBTQ58
- August 5, 2026Books & Literature
Stacey Bonner Books Announces Doc and Daisy Series
Stacey Bonner Books announced a 2026 reader and book club focus for the Doc and Daisy Mysteries, a cozy mystery series by Stacey Bonner, DVM. The series pairs Dr. Sue MacVety, a veterinarian and small-town sleuth, with Daisy, a perceptive Doodle whose narration brings a lighter perspective to crime-solving. Set in small Florida towns, the books address serious subjects through character-driven investigations, community relationships, and evolving canine forensics. Cozy Crime Told Through a Canine Lens The Doc and Daisy Mysteries are built around an unusual point of view: Daisy, the canine companion who narrates the cases and observes both human behavior and small-town disruption. Her role is not decorative. Daisy notices details, follows scent and movement, and provides emotional context while Doc Sue MacVety uses professional knowledge, local relationships, and practical judgment to pursue answers. The result is a mystery structure that allows difficult issues to appear within a warmer narrative frame. Dr. Bonner’s background as a retired veterinarian shapes the series in ways that are central to its premise. The books draw on veterinary insight, animal behavior, and the growing public interest in canine forensics, a field involving the use of dogs in evidence detection and dog DNA as evidence. While the novels remain fictional and accessible, the presence of a veterinarian as sleuth allows the stories to connect animal knowledge with community problem-solving in a grounded way. Small Town Cases With Current Themes The series uses inviting Florida town settings to explore topics that appear in contemporary community life. Storylines include drug abuse and dealers, river pollution, generational change, local development, and the social strain caused when crime affects residents who know one another. The books present these subjects without the graphic tone often associated with thrillers, making them suitable for readers seeking mystery plots that include consequences, accountability, and emotional balance. In the Doc and Daisy Mysteries, crime-solving unfolds through tips, twists, observations, and relationships. Sue’s connections throughout the community provide access to dialogue and context, while Daisy’s instincts add another layer of discovery. The sleuthing partnership reflects a central theme of the series: justice often requires both careful attention and trust among people who are willing to look beyond surface appearances. The tone remains consistent with the cozy mystery tradition, including puzzle-driven suspense, limited graphic content, and an emphasis on restoring order. A Book Club Fit for Discussion The 2026 focus highlights the Doc and Daisy Mysteries as options for book clubs that want to discuss meaningful subjects through approachable fiction. The series offers conversation points about environmental responsibility, substance abuse, development pressures, ethical decision-making, and the way small communities respond when hidden problems become visible. Daisy’s narration adds warmth and wit, while Sue’s role creates opportunities to consider fairness, accountability, and the practical limits of local justice. The books also appeal to readers who are interested in animal-centered fiction but still want a structured mystery. Daisy is written as perceptive, loyal, and observant, with a voice that helps balance suspense with heart. Her perspective offers a lighter entry point into crime-solving without removing the seriousness of the cases. This combination supports discussion among mystery readers, animal lovers, and groups interested in fiction that raises social questions without relying on graphic violence. Reader Response and Literary Presence Reader response has emphasized the series’ blend of suspense and warmth. One Amazon Customer in Kindle format described the work as “an absolute delight,” noting the combination of an intricate plot and “the adorable and highly intelligent dog at the heart of the story.” Anne Marie Reynolds of Readers’ Favorite called it “the cozy murder mystery genre at its best,” citing suspense and heartwarming scenes within a crime-solving caper. Dr. Bonner maintains author information, book details, and updates through staceybonnerbooks.com , where readers can find all of her books, including cozy mysteries published under Stacey Bonner, DVM, and other works published under Stacey Bonner Gerhart. Additional author updates and literary connections are available through X , Instagram , LinkedIn , and the author’s Goodreads profile . Veterinary Experience Behind the Fiction The Doc and Daisy Mysteries reflect a career-informed approach to fiction. As a retired veterinarian, Dr. Bonner brings familiarity with animal behavior, client relationships, medical settings, and the trust placed in veterinarians within local communities. These elements help shape Doc Sue MacVety as a believable sleuth whose knowledge extends beyond traditional detective work. Rather than relying on spectacle, the series uses professional insight and community awareness to move investigations forward. The announcement underscores the series’ positioning for readers seeking mysteries that combine animal narration, compassionate settings, and timely community themes. Daisy’s voice provides levity and emotional continuity, while Doc’s experience supplies structure and credibility. Together, the characters present a version of cozy mystery storytelling that gives readers a puzzle to solve, a community to examine, and a canine narrator whose instincts help bring the truth into view. About Stacey Bonner Books staceybonnerbooks.com is the author platform for Dr. Stacey Bonner, DVM, a retired veterinarian and writer whose cozy mystery works are published under the name Stacey Bonner, DVM. Her other literary works are published under Stacey Bonner Gerhart. Her cozy mystery fiction features small Florida towns, current themes, and the partnership between veterinarian sleuth Dr. Sue MacVety and Daisy, a Doodle narrator with a strong nose for trouble.
- July 31, 2026Books & Literature
Maria Angeles Turns Setbacks Into Impact With Powerful New Book
A Career Built From the Ground Up Maria Angeles, founder of Recruit Care LLC and creator of the Recruit with Maria brand, has emerged as a leading voice in healthcare recruitment, leadership education, and professional resilience. A senior corporate recruiter, talent acquisition strategist, U.S. Navy veteran, and internationally recognized bestselling author, Angeles has built a career around a single conviction: that setbacks can become the foundation for growth, purpose, and lasting impact. Her latest work is now reaching recruiters, human resources professionals, and job seekers across the United States and beyond. Angeles has spent nearly a decade connecting exceptional professionals with leading healthcare organizations. Her work has focused on recruiting providers, nurses, allied health professionals, and executives while helping hospitals, urgent care centers, and physician practices build high-performing teams. She has specialized in strategic talent acquisition, employee engagement, and retention, areas that remain critical as healthcare organizations navigate ongoing workforce shortages. Her recruitment strategies have helped organizations strengthen their talent pipelines, reduce hiring challenges, and place critical roles that directly affect patient care. For Angeles, the measure of success has always extended beyond metrics. She describes her greatest professional reward as helping organizations maintain quality patient care by connecting them with the right people at the right time. Adversity as a Turning Point One defining moment came when she lost a position she deeply valued after years of dedication to healthcare recruitment. Rather than allowing that experience to define her future, Angeles used it as a moment to reflect, rebuild, and reinvent her path. She transformed her knowledge, passion, and lessons learned into a platform designed to educate and inspire others. "Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others," Angeles said, quoting Jack Welch, a philosophy she credits as central to both her career and her leadership approach. That difficult season became the beginning of a new chapter. Angeles channeled her experience into writing, speaking, and educational content, ultimately becoming a bestselling author whose books have reached readers worldwide. Her story illustrates a message she hopes resonates with professionals facing their own uncertain moments: that adversity does not have to determine the future. Three Bestselling Books Angeles has authored three books, each addressing a distinct challenge faced by professionals and organizations. Her first title, Recruitment Made Simple: 7 Key Strategies for Success in Healthcare Recruiting, reached number three on Amazon in the Business and Money category. The book equips recruiters with proven sourcing techniques, interviewing strategies, onboarding best practices, and performance metrics tailored to the competitive healthcare recruiting landscape. Her second book, 7 Life Habits for Thriving in a Digital Age, became an Amazon number one Best Seller and number one Top New Release. It encourages readers to develop resilience, purpose, productivity, and personal growth while navigating a fast-changing, hyper-connected world. The book was featured among recommended reading, as noted in a published article . Her most recent release, Retention Made Simple: The Missing Link to Mastering Healthcare Recruiting, reached number one on Amazon in Business Leadership Training and in Business Teams categories. Drawing on years of hands-on experience, the book explores why employee retention is the foundation of successful recruiting and organizational growth. It offers practical strategies for improving engagement, reducing turnover, strengthening workplace culture, and creating long-term hiring success, serving as a resource for recruiters, human resources professionals, managers, and business leaders. Real-World Experience Over Theory Angeles emphasizes practical, experience-based guidance over theory. Drawing from years in healthcare recruitment, she has developed proven strategies through hands-on candidate placement and organizational consulting, shaping the actionable insights found throughout her books and educational resources. "I do not simply write about recruiting and leadership. I have lived it every day," Angeles said. "My goal is not simply to stand out. It is to help others stand out and reach their highest potential." This combination of recruiting expertise, leadership insight, and personal development distinguishes her approach. Readers have shared that the material provides usable insights into sourcing, candidate engagement, retention strategies, and building stronger hiring practices. Reader feedback is available through Amazon customer reviews , where audiences have described the guidance as authentic and immediately applicable. Empowering Recruiters and Professionals Beyond her books, Angeles continues to educate through coaching, online content, and speaking engagements. Through the Recruit with Maria brand, she teaches ethical hiring practices, mentors future recruitment leaders, and helps organizations build thriving workplace cultures. Her resources are designed to simplify recruiting, improve retention, and strengthen workforce development. A Message of Resilience and Purpose At the heart of her mission is a belief that resilience is built through challenges. Angeles maintains that when individuals choose courage over fear, learning over defeat, and purpose over circumstances, they can transform obstacles into opportunities. She views every setback as a potential stepping stone toward personal growth and meaningful contribution. "Resilience is not about avoiding adversity. It is about finding the courage to keep moving forward, learning from every experience, and believing that every difficult season is preparing us for a greater purpose," Angeles said. She encourages professionals to understand that success is not measured solely by titles or achievements, but by the lives they influence along the way. Every opportunity to mentor, teach, or encourage another person, she notes, creates a ripple effect. Additional details about her speaking work and upcoming programs are available through her keynote website and her primary website . A Leadership Voice Organizations Need Now In an era defined by AI, workforce transformation, and rapidly evolving employee expectations, Angeles believes successful organizations will distinguish themselves not by technology alone, but by how effectively they attract, develop, and retain exceptional people. Her perspective bridges the gap between executive leadership, talent strategy, and human connection—an increasingly rare combination in today's marketplace. "Technology can improve efficiency," Angeles says. "But people create innovation, build trust, and transform organizations. Investing in people will always be the greatest business strategy." Looking Ahead Angeles is launching an online coaching program designed to support recruiters, leaders, and professionals seeking career success. Her continued focus remains on making recruitment, leadership, and employee retention simple, practical, and impactful. Through each book, educational resource and speaking engagement, she reinforces the message that setbacks do not represent the end of a story but often the beginning of a new one filled with purpose, growth, and impact. About Recruit Care Recruit Care LLC, founded by Maria Angeles, is a healthcare recruitment and education company dedicated to connecting exceptional professionals with leading healthcare organizations across the United States. Through the Recruit with Maria brand, the company provides practical strategies, coaching, and educational resources focused on recruitment, leadership, employee engagement, and retention. Maria Angeles is a New York-based senior corporate recruiter, talent acquisition strategist, U.S. Navy veteran, and bestselling author with nearly ten years of experience in healthcare recruiting. For more information, visit Website and Maria Keynote , or read more about her bestselling book . Connect with Maria on LinkedIn , Facebook , TikTok , and YouTube . For media inquiries, contact Maria Angeles at angelesmarial@yahoo.com or +1 (347) 553-0813 .
- July 31, 2026Books & Literature
Cancer Freedom Announces New Book by Katrina Foe
Cancer Freedom, a functional nutrition program founded by Katrina Foe, has announced the fall publication of a new book titled "Cancer, Why Me?" The book expands on the educational approach that guides the organization's work, which centers on functional laboratory testing and personalized nutritional protocols for individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis. The announcement marks a milestone for the organization, which has spent more than a decade developing an educational model designed to help clients understand the factors that research associates with cancer development. A Founder Who Applied the Approach Personally Katrina Foe, a Functional Nutritionist who focuses on cancer-related concerns, built Cancer Freedom around methods she first applied to her own health. After receiving a cancer diagnosis, Foe addressed her condition using a functional nutrition approach that combined a ketogenic diet with functional laboratory testing. A ketogenic diet is an eating pattern that emphasizes very low carbohydrate intake with higher fat consumption. Foe reports having remained cancer free for more than ten years since taking that path. That personal experience shapes the philosophy she brings to the organization. Rather than approaching clients from a purely theoretical standpoint, Foe describes her work as grounded in lived experience. "I have been there and done it successfully. I practice what I preach, and my goal is to empower and educate people so that they feel in control of their own health decisions," Foe said. The forthcoming book aims to translate that experience into an accessible resource for readers who want to understand the questions that often follow a diagnosis. The title, "Cancer, Why Me?", reflects a question that many people ask, and the book seeks to address it through an educational lens rather than a promotional one. The Philosophy of Testing Rather Than Guessing A central theme of Cancer Freedom, and one the new book explores, is the principle of testing rather than guessing. The organization uses functional laboratory testing to examine factors that current research links to cancer development or progression. Functional testing refers to laboratory assessments that evaluate how the body is operating across various systems, rather than simply diagnosing disease. According to the organization, each client receives custom protocols that are built around individual laboratory results. This means that two clients with the same diagnosis may follow different plans depending on what their testing reveals. The organization describes this as a personalized model, one designed to reflect the specific circumstances of each individual rather than a single standardized regimen. "Our focus is on testing, not guessing. Every client has personalized protocols based on their individual labs, and that is what makes the approach so different," Foe said. The emphasis on data is intended to give clients a clearer sense of direction. For individuals who feel uncertain after a diagnosis, the organization positions functional testing as a way to move from unanswered questions toward specific, measurable areas of focus. An Educational Model Built on Community Cancer Freedom delivers its program in a group environment, a structure the organization believes offers several advantages. Clients learn alongside others who are navigating similar circumstances, which provides community support during a period that can feel isolating. The group format is also designed to give participants access to quick answers and a thorough understanding of the concepts behind their protocols. The organization operates a twelve-month program that includes comprehensive functional laboratory testing, ongoing support, weekly question-and-answer sessions, a private community, and an educational suite of materials. The stated goal of the program is to reduce the fear that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis while helping participants improve their quality of life. The organization is careful to frame its work in specific terms. It does not present itself as curing cancer. Instead, it describes its purpose as supporting the body so that it may become, in the organization's words, inhospitable to cancer. This distinction reflects a broader philosophy that emphasizes lifestyle changes, nutrition, and individualized support rather than claims of treatment or cure. More information about the program structure is available through the organization's Cancer Freedom program page , which also features accounts from clients who have participated. How the Book Fits Into the Broader Mission The publication of "Cancer, Why Me?" represents an extension of the educational mission that Cancer Freedom has pursued since its founding. Where the twelve-month program offers hands-on guidance, testing, and community, the book is intended to reach a wider audience of readers who may be seeking answers early in their journey or who simply want to understand the science that informs the organization's approach. The book is expected to explore the questions that clients frequently raise, including why a diagnosis may have occurred and what factors research associates with cancer. By presenting this information in book form, Foe aims to make the educational foundation of her work available to those who may not be ready to enroll in a structured program but who still want reliable, understandable information. Serving Clients Who Want Clarity The organization notes that its approach tends to resonate most with individuals who want clear direction and who prefer to understand the reasoning behind their choices. Clients who arrive with questions and a desire for answers are described as those who benefit most from the educational and empowering structure of the program. For many people, a diagnosis brings a wave of uncertainty. Cancer Freedom positions its combination of testing, personalized protocols, and community learning as a way to replace that uncertainty with understanding. The organization's stated aim is not only to support physical health but also to help clients feel more confident and less fearful as they make decisions about their well-being. With the release of the new book this fall, Foe hopes to broaden the reach of that mission and to offer a resource that reflects both her professional expertise and her personal experience. About Cancer Freedom Cancer Freedom is a science-backed program led by Katrina Foe, a Functional Nutritionist focused on cancer-related concerns. The organization explores root causes of cancer and supports personalized wellness approaches through nutrition, lifestyle changes, functional testing, and education. Learn more at Cancer Freedom and Cancer Freedom Program . Cancer Freedom shares educational resources through YouTube Channel , Instagram Profile , Facebook Page , and TikTok Profile . For inquiries, contact answers@cancerfreedom.com or Apply Here .
- July 30, 2026Books & Literature
Technology Executive Turned Novelist Completes Shield Cycle, a Triptych of Ancient World Novels About the People History Left Out of the Record
Alessandro Catorcini has announced the completion of the Shield Cycle , a collection of three standalone historical novels set across the ancient Mediterranean. Rather than following a continuous storyline, the books are connected through a shared motif: the shield, and the soldiers, engineers, and craftsmen whose contributions to history often remained outside the historical record. The completed series includes The Farthest Shield , The Shield Left Behind , and The Hammer and the Shield . Each title is available in English and Italian in paperback and ebook editions through Amazon and Google Play. Born in Genoa, Italy, and now based in Bellevue, Washington, Catorcini works as a technology executive while writing historical fiction inspired by the overlooked people behind some of the defining moments of the ancient world. His novels focus on survivors, inventors, and ordinary individuals whose lives unfolded alongside the better known figures recorded by history. Each book stands on its own and may be read independently. The Final Installment Explores the Engineering Behind Rome's Naval Rise The newest novel, The Hammer and the Shield , is set during the First Punic War and centers on the development of the corvus , the boarding bridge credited with helping Rome challenge Carthaginian naval superiority. The story follows Manius Fabricius, the disgraced second son of a Roman senator whose understanding of shipbuilding leads to an innovation that changes the course of the war. After losing both his father and brother in the Strait of Scylla, a tragedy celebrated publicly as heroism but understood privately as avoidable error, Fabricius dedicates himself to solving Rome's naval disadvantage. Although his invention becomes central to Roman victories, public recognition belongs to the consul whose name appears on the monument, while the engineer remains absent from history and burdened by the one flaw in the device that only he can see. A Story of Survival Following the Defeat at Cannae The Shield Left Behind follows a Roman soldier who survives the Battle of Cannae after abandoning his shield during one of Rome's greatest military disasters. Branded by disgrace, he spends fourteen years in exile in Sicily before eventually returning to the campaigns that culminate in the Battle of Zama. The novel examines questions of honor, duty, redemption, and the long personal consequences of survival during the Second Punic War. Following the Lost Legion Beyond the Roman World The Farthest Shield imagines the fate of one of the Roman legionaries who disappeared after the defeat at Carrhae in 53 BCE. Instead of ending where the historical record grows silent, the novel follows its protagonist across decades and continents toward the Han frontier, exploring one possible journey beyond the boundaries of the Roman world. Drawing on historical research while embracing fiction, the novel considers how ordinary soldiers experienced events that history often records only through generals and empires. Inspired by Classical Studies and Written in Two Languages Catorcini traces the origins of the Shield Cycle to his early study of Latin and Greek. That first introduction to the classical world became the foundation for a writing career focused on historical fiction that examines overlooked perspectives from antiquity. Rather than producing one language as a translation of the other, Catorcini writes in both Italian and English. The Italian editions, including Il Martello e lo Scudo , are published as independent editions developed specifically for Italian readers. "The monuments are always for the men who gave the orders. I'm interested in the ranker who lived through it and the maker whose name never got cut into the stone. Those are the people who actually built the world we inherited," said Alessandro Catorcini. Availability The complete Shield Cycle is available in both English and Italian. The Hammer and the Shield / Il Martello e lo Scudo Setting: First Punic War Formats: Paperback and ebook The Shield Left Behind Setting: Second Punic War, from Cannae to Zama Formats: Paperback and ebook The Farthest Shield Setting: Carrhae and the road east Formats: Paperback and ebook All titles are available through Amazon and Google Play. Additional information, language editions, and purchasing links are available at www.catorcini.com/books . About Alessandro Catorcini Alessandro Catorcini is a historical fiction author and technology executive based in Bellevue, Washington. Born in Genoa, Italy, he writes in both Italian and English, focusing on the overlooked people whose lives shaped the ancient world but were seldom preserved in historical accounts. His completed Shield Cycle consists of The Farthest Shield , The Shield Left Behind , and The Hammer and the Shield . In addition to writing fiction, he publishes articles about hardware, home infrastructure, and automation projects at www.catorcini.com . You can email directly to alessandro@catorcini.com .
- July 29, 2026Books & Literature
Jonathan Orr-Stav Unveils Sherlock Holmes and the Mistress of History, Combining Classic Mystery with Historical Fiction
Few fictional characters have endured quite like Sherlock Holmes. More than a century after Sir Arthur Conan Doyle introduced the world's greatest consulting detective, readers continue searching for new stories that capture Holmes' brilliance without losing the spirit of the originals. Jonathan Orr-Stav's Sherlock Holmes and the Mistress of History accomplishes just that. Rather than simply recreating familiar mysteries, Orr-Stav crafts an adventure that feels both authentic to the Holmes canon and refreshingly original. In it, Holmes and Dr. Watson embark on an on-site investigation of mysterious symbols discovered at an ancient Egyptian turquoise mine near Mount Sinai—setting in motion a case that blends suspense, history, archaeology, and literary intrigue into a compelling page-turner. The novel has already earned enthusiastic praise from readers. One reviewer called it "a brain-tickling, fun, brilliant read that I couldn't help but storm through in one sitting, then go back and savour my favourite bits." Another described it as "more like a memoir... a celebration of reading and writing," recognizing that the novel offers more than an engaging mystery—it celebrates the joy of discovery itself. For longtime Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts, one of the book's greatest strengths is the relationship between Holmes and Watson. Rather than treating the beloved detective as an untouchable icon, Orr-Stav presents the pair with warmth, wit, and maturity. Holmes is surprisingly humanized by his nine-months’ research sojourn in the Holy Land—making him more attuned to others’ sensibilities (such as Miss Hudson’s distress at her mother’s illness), and more appreciative of Watson’s friendship. This is also the first Sherlockian novel to draw on Watson's experience and skills as a former army surgeon during the Afghan campaign, thereby subtly reshaping the dynamics of his long-standing partnership with Holmes. As one reviewer observed, the novel "delights on two levels: first, the Holmes-Watson relationship as it has matured after Holmes' nominal retirement to the Sussex Downs; then, the unraveling of the mysterious symbols found at an ancient Egyptian turquoise mine near Mount Sinai." This combination gives the story an emotional depth alongside its intellectual puzzles. What makes Sherlock Holmes and the Mistress of History especially distinctive is the way it seamlessly incorporates genuine historical research into the narrative. The mystery draws inspiration from real questions surrounding ancient inscriptions and the early development of writing, yet the novel never feels like a history lesson. Every historical detail serves the plot, enriching the investigation while keeping the story fast-moving and entertaining. The result is a novel that appeals to a wide audience. Sherlock Holmes fans will appreciate its respect for Conan Doyle's world. Readers of historical fiction will enjoy its richly researched setting. Those who simply love a well-constructed mystery will find plenty of twists, clues, and revelations to keep them turning pages. As one reviewer put it, the novel is "a genuinely satisfying blend of mystery, history, and sharp character work... respectful of the Holmes canon while still doing something fresh and ambitious." Behind the novel is an author with a lifelong passion for language and history. Orr-Stav’s previous works, including Aleph Through the Looking Glass and The SimHebrew Bible , reflect years of research into the origins and evolution of Western writing. Drawing on his own experience as a former Londoner and his first-hand travels through the Sinai, he brings an added layer of authenticity to the novel's settings, atmosphere, and historical detail that few historical mysteries can match. Yet readers never need specialized knowledge to enjoy the story. Orr-Stav wears his scholarship lightly, allowing the characters, mystery, and adventure to remain at the forefront, while rewarding curious readers with fascinating historical context. In an era when many mysteries rely on increasingly elaborate conspiracies or high-tech investigations, Sherlock Holmes and the Mistress of History reminds us why classic detective fiction continues to endure. With its careful deduction, memorable characters, rich historical atmosphere, and genuine curiosity, it is a novel that entertains while inviting readers to see the past from a fresh perspective. Whether you're a lifelong admirer of Sherlock Holmes, a fan of intelligent historical fiction, or simply searching for a novel that offers both excitement and substance, Sherlock Holmes and the Mistress of History deserves a place on your reading list. About Jonathan Orr-Stav Jonathan Orr-Stav is a Hebrew language researcher, third generation Hebrew-English translator, academic editor, and author. He is the inventor of the SimHebrew method of transcribing Hebrew into Roman characters and has written widely on language, translation, history, and literature. His published works include Aleph Through the Looking Glass , The SimHebrew Bible , and Sherlock Holmes and the Mistress of History , with additional titles currently in development. More information Connect with Jonathan Orr-Stav , Substack , Medium and By Autumn Light ,For inquiries, contact info@orr-stav.com .
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