Review: Solving the Anxiety Equation: The Formula to Free Yourself from Fear by Wendy Leeds

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

Synopsis:

Easing Anxiety Is Possible—and Here’s How

Left untreated, anxiety can be hugely disruptive to our lives. It can keep us up at night, cause difficulties at work, and interfere in relationships. Anxiety can keep us trapped and alone, and persistent social stigmas can make it feel like we’re the only ones suffering.

As a three-time cancer survivor, Wendy Leeds knows what it’s like to deal with anxiety. As a licensed psychotherapist (LMHC), she has experience helping herself and others heal from the effects of anxiety. Wendy brings that unique perspective to her new book, Solving the Anxiety Equation: The Formula to Free Yourself from Fear.

With easy-to-implement tools and techniques for dealing with anxious thoughts, negative beliefs, and physical symptoms of anxiety, Solving the Anxiety Equation takes the mystery out of what makes us anxious and offers a hands-on, individualized approach for getting to the root of our anxiety—and healing it. Mixing personal stories of struggle and triumph with the latest research on the causes, impacts, and solutions, Wendy offers a path to recovery from anxiety that can help every reader live with less fear and greater ease.

Favorite Lines:

“…when self-doubt is running things, it’s like driving through life with one foot on the gas pedal and the other foot on the brake.”

“Fear comes in all sorts of forms and sizes. It shows up differently for all of us. It can be predictable, or it can show up unexpectedly.”

“Every new moment brings the chance to begin again.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Anxiety is something nearly everyone experiences at some point, but for those who struggle with it daily, it can feel like an insurmountable force. In Solving the Anxiety Equation, Wendy Leeds provides a thoughtful, compassionate, and practical approach to managing and ultimately overcoming anxiety. As both a psychotherapist and someone who has personally battled anxiety, Leeds blends professional insight with lived experience, making this book not just informative but deeply relatable.

One of the book’s biggest strengths is its clear, structured approach. Leeds breaks anxiety down into three core components:

  1. Self-doubt – The internal voice that tells us we’re not good enough, smart enough, or strong enough.
  2. Fear of change – The worry that any shift in our circumstances will only make things worse.
  3. Physical anxiety – The way our bodies react to stress, from racing hearts to sweaty palms to full-blown panic attacks.

By understanding how these elements work together, Leeds argues that we can begin to dismantle anxiety’s grip on our lives. She introduces thought-swapping techniques to help counteract negative self-talk, the BEAR method for managing panic attacks, and mindfulness practices to re-center ourselves in moments of distress.

What makes this book stand out is its deeply personal tone. Leeds openly shares her own struggles with anxiety, including how she navigated intense fear during her cancer diagnoses. These moments of vulnerability make the book feel incredibly authentic—it’s not just another self-help book written from a distance, but rather a conversation with someone who truly understands what it’s like to live with anxiety.

She also emphasizes the importance of rewriting our internal narratives. Many people with anxiety tell themselves stories like, I’m not strong enough to handle this or I’ll never be able to cope. Leeds challenges these assumptions and offers ways to replace them with more empowering thoughts, such as I have overcome challenges before, and I will again. This simple but profound shift in mindset can be life-changing.

Leeds doesn’t just offer advice—she guides the reader through exercises that help reinforce these techniques. Her writing style is warm and reassuring, making complex psychological concepts easy to understand and apply.

Summary:

Overall, whether you’re dealing with occasional anxiety or chronic worry, Solving the Anxiety Equation is an invaluable resource. Leeds provides hope without false promises—she acknowledges that anxiety doesn’t disappear overnight, but with the right tools, it can be managed in a way that allows us to lead happier, more fulfilling lives. Happy reading!

Check out Solving the Anxiety Equation here!

 

Monthly Features – March 2025

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

Black Cliff Chronicles by Steve Sterling

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Three intertwined time travel rescue missions reveal how ordinary people rise to extraordinary acts of valor, driven by selflessness and a willingness to sacrifice for others.

The thriving university town of New Jerusalem nestles in the secluded hill country north of the Ozark National Forest in rural Arkansas. New Jerusalem is a wonderful place to put down roots as long as you don’t go into the experimental forest and find Black Cliff, a place of dark power.

Was it a simple misstep in 1989 when high school seniors Mary Sanders and Charlie Barrows became lost during a fall hike and stood facing Black Cliff? Or were other forces at play?

Before they can flee, Black Cliff entangles Mary in a web of time travel, strands that transport her back 300 years in history to a horrific civil war and a daring solo rescue mission.

Months later, Mary returns to New Jerusalem and to 1989, battered by her war experiences and heartsick over those she left behind. Once home, her struggles continue. Time travelers and friends gather to help Mary and Charlie. They have less than three days to rescue America from a plot to seize the presidency.

Summary: Overall, Black Cliff Chronicles is more than just a time travel adventure—it’s a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to confront the past and shape the future. Whether you’re a fan of speculative fiction, historical thrillers, or character-driven dramas, this book has something to offer. Happy reading!

See the full review here: Black Cliff Chronicles
Purchase here

Hoplite Ridge by Sean Patrick Sayers

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Hoplite Ridge – A Military, Dystopian, and Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction Epic

In a universe where war is eternal and gods refuse to be forgotten, Hoplite Ridge thrusts readers into a high-stakes conflict that will determine the fates of worlds. This gripping military science fiction saga blends dystopian science fiction with post-apocalyptic science fiction, exploring the cost of loyalty, the power of rebellion, and the blurred lines between destiny and free will.

Spanning across multiple war-torn planets, Hoplite Ridge follows elite warriors caught in a battle far greater than themselves. As political tensions rise and hidden forces awaken, alliances are tested, secrets unravel, and a dangerous truth comes to light—one that could reshape the course of history.

For fans of Frank Herbert’s Dune and Joe Haldeman’s The Forever War, Hoplite Ridge delivers pulse-pounding action, deep philosophical themes, and a richly detailed world where strategy, survival, and sacrifice define the battlefield.

Prepare for an unforgettable journey through war, myth, and the unknown. In the fight for the future, only those who dare to challenge fate will survive.

Summary: Overall, Hoplite Ridge is an ambitious, cerebral, and ultimately rewarding read. It challenges, entertains, and invites reflection—qualities I value in speculative fiction. If you’re looking for a novel that pushes the boundaries of genre and explores the deeper questions of existence, this one is worth diving into. Happy reading!

See the full review here: Hoplite Ridge
Purchase here

The Mental Toolbox by David Harrison

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Practical Brain Training for a Happier, Stress-Free, and More Productive Life

In today’s fast-paced world, improving mental wellness has never been more important. The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a 25% rise in anxiety and depression worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for tools to build mental resilience.

The Mental Toolbox can help you create those tools, tailored to fit your lifestyle, and flip the script from mental illness to mental wellness. This book is for everyone—whether you’ve faced mental health challenges or not. Along the way, you’ll unlock the keys to a healthier mind, greater resilience, and your full potential.

Written in clear, straightforward language, The Mental Toolbox is practical and accessible to everyone. It offers tools, strategies, and advice that can strengthen your mental resilience, cognitive abilities, emotional intelligence, and ability to deal with stress. By doing so, it helps you enhance your overall well-being, serving as a valuable guide on your journey of personal growth.

Inside, you’ll be introduced to the five main pillars of mental health and overall well-being:

  • Sleep
  • Exercise
  • Nutrition
  • Mindfulness
  • Conscious Thinking

Understanding these pillars and how they interconnect is key to boosting your overall health and enhancing your ability to manage stress. By learning to apply these principles in your daily life, you’ll develop stronger mental resilience, improve cognitive function, and build a foundation for long-term well-being.

This book has the power to transform your mindset and your life. With the right approach, the possibilities are limitless.

Change your mind,
Change your life
—and discover just how far you can go with….

The Mental Toolbox.

Summary: Overall, The Mental Toolbox serves as a valuable resource for those aiming to proactively manage stress, enhance cognitive abilities, and foster a happier, more productive life. It’s a testament to the idea that with the right tools and mindset, anyone can achieve mental wellness and resilience. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in practical brain training and self-improvement. Happy reading!

See the full review here: The Mental Toolbox
Purchase here

 

Review: Moonset on Desert Sands by Sherri L. Dodd

~ likelystory18 ~ 1 Comment

Synopsis:

With a traumatic year of fending off a serial killer behind her, Arista has settled contentedly into her temporary home with Auntie in Sedona, Arizona. She enjoys her new job selling all things metaphysical and even has her eye on the hot security guard, Dakota, after her recent breakup with Shane.

But a series of new fainting spells has her worried, and when Auntie witnesses one, they decide the answer lies in her home of Boulder Creek. However, returning means not only dealing with her breakup and its heartache but also the possibility of drawing her bloodthirsty Uncle Fergus to her once safe haven in the redwoods. And this time he has recruited an even more dangerous alliance.

Arista’s closest bonds will be strengthened, but the mounting tension of a death in the desert, a stalker on the streets, and the relentless pursuit of Fergus puts her in dangerous territory, and escaping sorrow proves impossible.

Favorite Lines:

“Thank you for your wisdom … Master Yoda”

“Amidst the sadness, Arista breathed in a strange sense of tranquility. There was nothing left to lose.”

“The kindling of revisited love warmed her, and her spirit felt light. She could find happiness again. Despite all her drama, she would not stop living”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Sherri L. Dodd’s Moonset on Desert Sands is an intoxicating blend of mystery, magic, and suspense that grips the reader from the very first page. Set against a hauntingly beautiful yet treacherous landscape, this novel weaves a spellbinding tale of fate, power, and deception, where nothing is quite as it seems. With richly detailed prose and a carefully constructed world, Dodd delivers a story that is as immersive as it is thought-provoking.

At the heart of the novel is a tangled web of characters, each with their own motives, secrets, and hidden pasts. Their fates are drawn together by the discovery of an ancient relic—one that holds immense power and carries with it both temptation and destruction. As the story unfolds, layers of intrigue, betrayal, and supernatural forces come into play, leading to unexpected alliances and devastating consequences.

Dodd’s mastery of atmospheric storytelling shines throughout the novel. Her descriptions of the desert at night, where shadows stretch long and the air hums with unspoken magic, create an eerie yet hypnotic setting that perfectly complements the book’s themes. The tension builds steadily, punctuated by moments of quiet introspection and explosive revelations. There is a delicate balance between the mystical and the human—while magic plays a central role in the story, it is the characters’ emotions, ambitions, and fears that truly drive the narrative.

What sets Moonset on Desert Sands apart from other fantasy novels is its intricate plot and multi-dimensional characters. Instead of relying on clear-cut heroes and villains, Dodd presents individuals shaped by their circumstances, forced to make difficult choices that challenge their morality. The protagonist’s journey is particularly compelling, as they navigate the blurred lines between destiny and free will, trust and treachery.

The novel’s pacing is masterfully executed, keeping the reader engaged through unexpected twists, political intrigue, and moments of chilling suspense. The action sequences are well-crafted, and the dialogue is sharp and purposeful, revealing just enough at the right moments to keep the mystery alive. And while the book ties together many of its story threads by the end, it also leaves room for speculation, making it clear that the world Dodd has built is far from finished revealing its secrets.

Summary:

Overall, Moonset on Desert Sands is an enthralling read for those who love dark, immersive fantasy with elements of mystery and the supernatural. With its evocative prose, complex characters, and spellbinding world, it is a novel that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned. Fans of magical realism, occult fiction, and intricate storytelling will find themselves completely captivated Happy reading!

Check out Moonset on Desert Sands here!

Review: The Win-Win Workplace: How Thriving Employees Drive Bottom-Line Success by Angela Jackson

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

Synopsis:

Do you want the key to driving equity and skyrocketing profits? It’s hand over control to your workers.

Discover 9 strategies to create better, healthier workplaces, grounded in evidence-based research.

This revolutionary guide aims to revolutionize the workplace for justice, equity, and profitability by handing the reins over to the real drivers of the workers.

Based on research from over 1,200 companies, including WalMart, Google, and JPMorgan Chase, this book follows real-world cases from companies where employees evolved from silent contributors to masterminds steering corporate strategies. These cases are the vanguard of a vibrant era in which workers will be the architects of their destinies, shaping not just their own careers but the entire trajectories of their organizations. Her work has quantified the financial impact investing in people can have on an organization- the first reliable calculation in the literature of talent retention.

From this research, 9 key strategies
•Centering employee voices
•Mutualistic working relationships
•Intersectional inclusion strategies
•Reimaging employee benefits
•Frontline leader drive DEIJ strategies
•Hire STARS
•Develop deep talent benches
•Human capital reporting as a competitive strategy
•Distributed leadership

This book goes deeper to show how these strategies are working in the real-world today. When workers have stakes, everyone businesses surge, and teams ride a high they’ve never felt before. This is a win-win both management and labor win when you put people first.

Favorite Lines:

“The modern workplace has long been a battle of ‘employee versus employer,’ but it doesn’t have to be this way.”

“When employees feel like valued stakeholders rather than replaceable assets, they are more engaged, innovative, and productive.”

“The companies that will thrive in the future are those that see their people as more than just workers, but as partners in success.”

“Organizations that prioritize well-being and continuous learning don’t just attract top talent—they keep it.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Angela Jackson’s The Win-Win Workplace is a timely and thought-provoking guide that redefines the relationship between employees and employers. In a world where workplace dynamics are rapidly shifting—marked by trends like the Great Resignation, quiet quitting, and the rise of gig work—Jackson presents a compelling case for moving beyond the traditional transactional employment model. She argues that when companies prioritize employee well-being, they don’t just create happier workplaces—they build more profitable and sustainable businesses.

The book is structured around nine core pillars that define a “Win-Win Workplace,” including centering employee voices, reimagining benefits, activating frontline leaders, and fostering continuous learning. Drawing from years of research across diverse industries, Jackson provides real-world case studies that illustrate how forward-thinking organizations have embraced these principles with measurable success. Her findings are backed by data showing that companies that prioritize employee engagement see increased revenue, higher productivity, and stronger financial performance.

What makes The Win-Win Workplace stand out is its practical approach. Jackson doesn’t just diagnose the problems with modern workplaces—she provides a roadmap for change. She outlines specific strategies for businesses to implement, from hiring based on skills rather than credentials to creating feedback loops that empower employees. The book is as much a call to action as it is a blueprint for transformation.

Summary:

Overall, Jackson makes a compelling argument that when employees thrive, businesses do too—proving that success in the modern workforce isn’t a zero-sum game, but a partnership that benefits everyone. This book could be for leaders and employees alike looking to build more resilient, inclusive, and high-performing work-places. Happy reading!

Check out The Win-Win Workplace here!

 

Review: The Mental Toolbox by David Harrison

~ likelystory18 ~ 2 Comments

Synopsis:

The Mental Toolbox

Practical Brain Training for a Happier, Stress-Free, and More Productive Life

In today’s fast-paced world, improving mental wellness has never been more important. The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a 25% rise in anxiety and depression worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for tools to build mental resilience.

The Mental Toolbox can help you create those tools, tailored to fit your lifestyle, and flip the script from mental illness to mental wellness. This book is for everyone—whether you’ve faced mental health challenges or not. Along the way, you’ll unlock the keys to a healthier mind, greater resilience, and your full potential.

Written in clear, straightforward language, The Mental Toolbox is practical and accessible to everyone. It offers tools, strategies, and advice that can strengthen your mental resilience, cognitive abilities, emotional intelligence, and ability to deal with stress. By doing so, it helps you enhance your overall well-being, serving as a valuable guide on your journey of personal growth.

Inside, you’ll be introduced to the five main pillars of mental health and overall well-being:

  • Sleep
  • Exercise
  • Nutrition
  • Mindfulness
  • Conscious Thinking

Understanding these pillars and how they interconnect is key to boosting your overall health and enhancing your ability to manage stress. By learning to apply these principles in your daily life, you’ll develop stronger mental resilience, improve cognitive function, and build a foundation for long-term well-being.

This book has the power to transform your mindset and your life. With the right approach, the possibilities are limitless.

Change your mind,
Change your life
—and discover just how far you can go with….

The Mental Toolbox.

Favorite Lines:

“Setting achievable, realistic goals is the key to maintaining motivation. Goals provide direction and structure to your efforts. It’s important to set goals that are challenging, attainable, and aligned with your values”

“Discernment requires that we ‘shield our eyes from the sun and look carefully’ before we make choices and that we look at the consequences our actions may have for ourselves and those around us”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

David Harrison’s The Mental Toolbox is a well-structured and engaging guide to optimizing brain health, reducing stress, and enhancing productivity. What sets this book apart is its deeply personal yet practical approach—Harrison combines scientific insights with real-world strategies to help readers build resilience, improve focus, and foster emotional intelligence.

The book takes a deep dive into topics like neuroplasticity, stress management, mindfulness, and the brain-body connection, breaking down complex concepts into digestible, actionable advice. It provides a range of tools—from cognitive exercises and nutritional recommendations to emotional regulation techniques—that readers can immediately incorporate into their daily lives.

One of the standout aspects of The Mental Toolbox is its balance between research-backed information and personal storytelling. Harrison doesn’t just present theories; he shares his own struggles with mental health, making the book feel both relatable and inspiring. The writing is approachable, avoiding overly technical jargon while still offering valuable insights into neuroscience and psychology.

While the book is packed with useful information, it never feels overwhelming. The structured layout, including self-assessment tools and step-by-step guides, makes it easy to navigate. Whether you’re looking to boost your mental performance, manage stress more effectively, or simply cultivate better habits, The Mental Toolbox provides a solid foundation for lifelong cognitive wellness.

Summary:

Overall, The Mental Toolbox serves as a valuable resource for those aiming to proactively manage stress, enhance cognitive abilities, and foster a happier, more productive life. It’s a testament to the idea that with the right tools and mindset, anyone can achieve mental wellness and resilience. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in practical brain training and self-improvement. Happy reading!

Check out The Mental Toolbox here!

 

Oddball in 3G by Marc Berlin

~ likelystory18 ~ 1 Comment

Synopsis:

Robert Krieger’s life is falling apart.

He’s been fired from his job, split up with his girlfriend, and has a controlling mother he feels obligated to call twice a week. As a result, he’s developed a distressing anxiety disorder.

Robert lends money to an acquaintance across the hall in his building, a small-time drug dealer named Skids. When Skids is brutally beaten by enforcers working for an inner-city drug gang, the Dragons, he gives Robert a “package” to hold for him until he either asks for it back or dies. Determined to find a new girlfriend, while jogging one morning Robert meets the beautiful and willowy Lindsey Marriott, whom he awkwardly begins to romance. Soon afterwards, he finds himself in a bloody one-man war with the Dragons, who believe Robert possesses money Skids owes them.

Robert is soon juggling an array of anxiety-heightening issues, which together conspire to wreak havoc on his fragile sanity.

Gritty and violent, ODDBALL IN 3G is a psychological thriller that’s also surprisingly funny.

Favorite Lines:

“I have rules, and the rules say this: you’re human, act accordingly.”

“Everything, I realize, is temporary – especially life itself.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Oddball in 3G by Marc Berlin is a quirky, offbeat novel that delivers a refreshing dose of humor and satire while weaving in moments of genuine heart and clever commentary.  From the very first page, it was clear I was in for a delightfully unpredictable ride.

The story primarily follows Robert Krieger who immediately reminded me of a mixture between Norman Bates and Dexter Morgan but with very sarcastic and dry sense of humor which lent to the almost conversational storytelling tone throughout this book that I found I really enjoyed.

What really impressed me was Berlin’s sharp wit and keen observational humor. His writing is snappy, with dialogue that feels natural yet packed with clever quips and subtle digs at life’s absurdities. The pacing is brisk, ensuring there’s never a dull moment, and just when you think you’ve figured out where the story is headed, it throws a curveball that keeps you on your toes.

Despite the humor, Oddball in 3G isn’t just a collection of comedic sketches—it has surprising depth. Beneath the layers of absurdity are themes of friendship, loneliness, and the odd connections people form in unexpected places. The characters’ antics might be exaggerated, but their emotions and struggles feel genuine, giving the novel a balance between laughter and poignancy.

I do want to call out that it is possible that some of the more surreal elements might not appeal to readers looking for a straightforward narrative. But for those who enjoy a story that embraces the bizarre with open arms, this book is an absolute treat.

Summary:

Overall, Oddball in 3G is perfect for fans of quirky comedies and character-driven stories that don’t take themselves too seriously but still manage to say something meaningful. If you’re looking for a fun, fast-paced read that keeps you entertained while offering a fresh perspective on life’s oddities, Marc Berlin’s latest is well worth picking up. Happy reading!

Check out Oddball in 3G here!

 

Review: Hoplite Ridge by Sean Patrick Sayers

~ likelystory18 ~ 1 Comment

Synopsis:

Hoplite Ridge – A Military, Dystopian, and Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction Epic

In a universe where war is eternal and gods refuse to be forgotten, Hoplite Ridge thrusts readers into a high-stakes conflict that will determine the fates of worlds. This gripping military science fiction saga blends dystopian science fiction with post-apocalyptic science fiction, exploring the cost of loyalty, the power of rebellion, and the blurred lines between destiny and free will.

Spanning across multiple war-torn planets, Hoplite Ridge follows elite warriors caught in a battle far greater than themselves. As political tensions rise and hidden forces awaken, alliances are tested, secrets unravel, and a dangerous truth comes to light—one that could reshape the course of history.

For fans of Frank Herbert’s Dune and Joe Haldeman’s The Forever War, Hoplite Ridge delivers pulse-pounding action, deep philosophical themes, and a richly detailed world where strategy, survival, and sacrifice define the battlefield.

Prepare for an unforgettable journey through war, myth, and the unknown. In the fight for the future, only those who dare to challenge fate will survive.

Favorite Lines:

“Now that we know what is going to happen in the next few hours and then the following two weeks, I say to you…all we have now is each other. My comrades, in this moment of terrible trial, let us stay united as we will face a challenge unlike any other. Know that I stand here not as your Colonel, but as your brother-in-arms. We are bound together by a common purpose, a shared determination to protect our families and our future. Your families are my families, and I vow to do everything in my power to shield them from harm.”

“Become a naval aviator, they said. It’ll be fun, they said. Ejection seats never fail, they said.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Hoplite Ridge by Sean Patrick Sayers is a thought-provoking and ambitious dive into speculative fiction, blending mythology, science, and philosophy into an expansive narrative that challenges readers to think beyond the ordinary. 

The story centers around Ares Augustus, Mars Augustus, and the resurrected god Osiris as they navigate a world teetering on the edge of destruction due to humanity’s reckless technological pursuits. The stakes are cosmic, yet the characters remain deeply human—flawed, conflicted, and striving to make sense of their roles in a rapidly unraveling reality. I was particularly drawn to Ares Augustus, whose internal struggles mirrored the broader themes of destruction and renewal that permeate the novel.

What sets Hoplite Ridge apart is the presence of Vulture, an ancient entity narrating from the Fold, a metaphysical realm that weaves together divine plans and mortal choices. This narrative perspective adds a unique layer of depth, offering insight into the tension between destiny and free will. Sayers’s world-building is nothing short of remarkable—the volcanic landscapes of Eden and the futuristic Aeolis Mons facility felt vividly real, each setting imbued with its own character and atmosphere.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is the exploration of the Techno-Enlightenment Philosophy. It raises compelling questions about the intersection of technological advancement and spiritual evolution, challenging readers to consider the consequences of pushing boundaries without foresight. These philosophical musings are woven into the narrative, adding layers of meaning, though at times they slightly slow the pace.

Despite its complexity, Hoplite Ridge remains grounded in the relationships between its characters. The interactions between gods and mortals are handled with nuance and emotional weight, adding a personal dimension to the grand scale of the plot. While the main characters are well-developed, I felt that a few supporting figures could have been explored more deeply to enhance their narrative impact.

This book isn’t just a sci-fi adventure—it’s a meditation on humanity’s potential to create or destroy, to transcend limitations or fall victim to them. Sayers’s prose is rich and evocative, making even the most abstract concepts feel accessible. Fans of high-concept science fiction, mythology, and philosophical narratives will find much to appreciate here.

Summary:

Overall, Hoplite Ridge is an ambitious, cerebral, and ultimately rewarding read. It challenges, entertains, and invites reflection—qualities I value in speculative fiction. If you’re looking for a novel that pushes the boundaries of genre and explores the deeper questions of existence, this one is worth diving into. Happy reading!

Check out Hoplite Ridge here!

 

Review: Black Cliff Chronicles by Steve Sterling

~ likelystory18 ~ 2 Comments

Synopsis:

Three intertwined time travel rescue missions reveal how ordinary people rise to extraordinary acts of valor, driven by selflessness and a willingness to sacrifice for others.

The thriving university town of New Jerusalem nestles in the secluded hill country north of the Ozark National Forest in rural Arkansas. New Jerusalem is a wonderful place to put down roots as long as you don’t go into the experimental forest and find Black Cliff, a place of dark power.

Was it a simple misstep in 1989 when high school seniors Mary Sanders and Charlie Barrows became lost during a fall hike and stood facing Black Cliff? Or were other forces at play?

Before they can flee, Black Cliff entangles Mary in a web of time travel, strands that transport her back 300 years in history to a horrific civil war and a daring solo rescue mission.

Months later, Mary returns to New Jerusalem and to 1989, battered by her war experiences and heartsick over those she left behind. Once home, her struggles continue. Time travelers and friends gather to help Mary and Charlie. They have less than three days to rescue America from a plot to seize the presidency.

Favorite Lines:

“Loving Minnie, is like standing on a cliff in Cornwall as an Atlantic storm slams into the shore. The waves crashing below and the wind so powerful you must brace yourself to not be blown off your feet. I am sorry for all the Victorian allusions. It fits so perfectly. Loving Minnie is tempestuous and overwhelming. One can’t breathe.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Black Cliff Chronicles by Steve Sterling is an engrossing blend of time travel, historical intrigue, and character-driven storytelling that pulls you in from the very first page. 

At its core, this novel explores how the past and present intertwine in unexpected ways. The characters—ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances—discover that their journeys through time hold significant consequences for their own lives and the world around them. Mary and Charlie, in particular, anchor the story with their evolving friendship and creative partnership. Their interactions felt authentic, with moments of humor and heartfelt exchanges that made them instantly relatable.

The time travel element—especially the “spirit walks” that transport characters into historical moments—was both innovative and chilling. Sterling does an excellent job of immersing the reader in different eras, capturing not just the sights and sounds but the emotional weight of being there. One particular journey into fascist Italy left a lasting impression with its vivid and unsettling details.

What I appreciated most was how the book balanced thrilling action with deeper reflections on free will and the cost of knowledge. Just when I thought I had the plot figured out, Sterling threw in twists that kept me guessing until the very end. While some historical details occasionally slowed the pace, they also enriched the narrative, offering a fuller picture of the times explored.

Summary:

Overall, Black Cliff Chronicles is more than just a time travel adventure—it’s a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to confront the past and shape the future. Whether you’re a fan of speculative fiction, historical thrillers, or character-driven dramas, this book has something to offer. Happy reading!

Check out Black Cliff Chronicles here!

 

Monthly Features – February 2025

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

Astronaut by Ali Rizvi

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: I dealt with mental health at many turning points in life and learned to mask my real-self at an early age but world wasn’t gentle enough for me to be accepted. I finally sought professional help and started treatment for Depression & some of its companions a few years ago. It has helped me to understand myself better, but not the cruel world.

The year 2024 made a mark in my journey with many surprises, and I decided to write again after many years.

This is a collection of poems from my recent & enduring pilgrimage to Depression & some other places.

Summary: Overall, Astronaut is not just a book of poems—it’s an emotional journey that invites readers to walk alongside Rizvi as he shares his battles and triumphs. Whether you’re seeking comfort in knowing you’re not alone in your struggles or looking to better understand the experiences of those who live with depression and/or other mental health disorders, this book is a compelling and heartfelt read.

See the full review here: Astronaut
Purchase here

 

Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

Synopsis: This is a world divided by blood – red or silver.

The Reds are commoners, ruled by a Silver elite in possession of god-like superpowers. And to Mare Barrow, a seventeen-year-old Red girl from the poverty-stricken Stilts, it seems like nothing will ever change.

That is, until she finds herself working in the Silver Palace. Here, surrounded by the people she hates the most, Mare discovers that, despite her red blood, she possesses a deadly power of her own. One that threatens to destroy the balance of power.

Fearful of Mare’s potential, the Silvers hide her in plain view, declaring her a long-lost Silver princess, now engaged to a Silver prince. Despite knowing that one misstep would mean her death, Mare works silently to help the Red Guard, a militant resistance group, and bring down the Silver regime.

But this is a world of betrayal and lies, and Mare has entered a dangerous dance – Reds against Silvers, prince against prince, and Mare against her own heart.

Summary: I highly recommend this book if you want a story centered around danger, action and adventure with some romance thrown in. Like I said in my opinion, love isn’t the focus (as much as I would love for it to be) but I am strangely okay with that. This book is about how much sacrifice is needed to better society. How much will the characters have to give to see change in the world? You’ll fall in love with all the characters and crave more of the series by the end of this book; I suggest you just buy them all at once so you don’t have to wait to buy the next one. I’m so sorry for what I am getting you into but I also don’t regret it at all. It’s an excellent, well written series and I can’t wait to see what else Aveyard is going to throw at us. 

See the full review here: Red Queen
Purchase here

Review: The Price of Freedom by Michael C. Bland

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

Synopsis:

It’s 2047. The rebellion has been crushed. The Agency is reestablishing control.

Rebel leader Dray Quintero languishes in his cell, struggling against his captors’ manipulations. His daughter Raven’s cries torment him at night. He has doomed them both.

When given an unexpected chance to escape prison, they break out–but they’re not safe. No one is. The Agency is still in power. And they’re tightening their grip. As dangers mount, Dray is haunted by an impossible dilemma: flee and survive, or gamble his last chance for freedom by taking a stand against impossible odds.

He tried running. He tried fighting. This time, he must try something radically different. Something no one will see coming.

The Price of Freedom is the adrenaline-fueled final installment in The Price Of trilogy from multiple-award–winning author Michael C Bland.

Favorite Lines:

“I’d fought out of necessity to protect my family. And, over time, I’d believed I had a moral obligation to fight for everyone.”

“I fought my emotions as they continued down the well-worn path.”

“Raven had wanted to be part of something great. She hadn’t realized she’d already been great. She’d been my inspiration her entire life.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

I wanted to start this review out by pointing out that this is the third book in Bland’s The Price Of trilogy and despite not having read the first two books in the series, I didn’t feel like I had to play too much catch up and still found this to be an enjoyable story. For the purposes of this review, I will do my best to keep spoilers to a minimum should anyone be interested in starting the trilogy from the beginning.

The Price of Freedom is a gripping, high-stakes dystopian thriller that delivers non-stop tension, emotional depth, and a chilling look at the power of technology in the wrong hands. As the final book in The Price of trilogy, it thrusts readers into a world where survival is anything but guaranteed.

Dray Quintero, once a rebel leader, now finds himself imprisoned, tormented by the knowledge that his youngest daughter, Raven, is also in enemy hands. The Agency, led by an old friend turned ruthless dictator, controls the country through weaponized technology, manipulating reality itself to keep citizens under its thumb. But when an unexpected chance at escape emerges, Dray and Raven must navigate a world where every move is predicted before they can make it.

Bland masterfully blends action, psychological warfare, and ethical dilemmas, making Dray’s fight for freedom feel both deeply personal and terrifyingly relevant. Even as he battles for his family’s survival, he must decide whether to keep running or make one final stand against an enemy that always seems one step ahead.

Summary:

With relentless pacing, thought-provoking twists, and a futuristic setting that feels eerily plausible, The Price of Freedom is a must-read for fans of dystopian sci-fi. Whether you’ve followed the series from the beginning or are jumping in for the first time, this thrilling conclusion will keep you on edge until the very last page. Happy reading!

Check out The Price of Freedom here!