Books & Looks Books & Looks

Michael Jecks is a prolific author who has written over 50 books spanning multiple genres and time periods. Best known for his medieval murder mystery series featuring former Knight Templar Sir Baldwin Furnshill and Bailiff Simon Puttock, Michael's works transport readers from the Middle Ages to Tudor England to 1920s Shanghai. In his latest contemporary crime series, The Art of Murder, Michael introduces readers to the quirky yet insightful protagonist Nick Morris, a reluctant investigator and professional portrait painter specializing in cats.
Discussed in this Episode:
The art of crafting compelling historical fiction across various eras Michael's journey from a brief stint in university to becoming a bestselling author The inspiration behind The Art of Murder series and its unconventional hero Balancing historical accuracy with engaging storytelling to captivate readers Insights on the publishing industry, promoting literacy, and the writing life Links:
"Landscape of Muder" Book: https://amzn.to/4dLmBun Michael Jecks Website: https://www.michaeljecks.co.uk/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9_5bCOsZTOc _
Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Jane Boulware is a retired business executive and the author of "Worthy," a memoir chronicling her unconventional path from rural Iowa to the corner office at Microsoft. With a forestry degree from Iowa State University and an MBA, Jane's career journey spans roles at Kimberly-Clark, where she played a pivotal part in the Huggies vs. Pampers brand battle, and Microsoft, where she navigated the challenges of a male-dominated tech industry to become one of the few female Corporate Vice Presidents.
Discussed in this Episode:
The importance of resilience and self-worth in overcoming personal and professional obstacles Lessons learned from leading teams and driving business growth in competitive markets The power of mentorship and taking risks to achieve career success Balancing family life and career aspirations as a working mother Insights on leadership, diversity, and fostering a positive corporate culture Links:
"Worthy" Book: https://amzn.to/3UHEnWt Jane Boulware Website: https://www.janeboulware.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OGNBB2_t4ng _
Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Amy Jo Burns is the acclaimed author of the novel Mercury, a captivating story that delves into the complex dynamics of a family of roofers in the small town of Mercury, Pennsylvania. With a background in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University, Amy Jo brings a unique perspective to her storytelling, crafting richly layered characters and exploring themes of secrets, redemption, and the power of choice.
Discussed in this Episode:
The inspiration behind Mercury and the significance of the roofing profession Strategies for creating a vivid sense of place and capturing small-town life The role of secrets and revelations in driving the narrative forward Lessons learned from writing a multi-generational family saga Insights on character development, theme, and structuring a novel across multiple timelines Links:
"Mercury: A Novel" Book: https://amzn.to/4a3ub0g Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zjFVeOxiAqg _
Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

D.J. Green is the acclaimed author of "No More Empty Spaces," a captivating novel that intertwines geology, family dynamics, and the rich history of Turkey. Drawing from her extensive career as a geologist, D.J. brings authenticity and depth to her storytelling, transporting readers to the remote mountains of Anatolia where an American engineer grapples with both professional challenges and personal growth. Beyond her literary pursuits, D.J. has over three decades of experience as a field geologist, working in more than 35 states and traveling extensively in Turkey.
Discussed in this Episode:
The art of weaving complex scientific concepts into engaging fiction Insights into the geological wonders and cultural heritage of Turkey The challenges and triumphs of a woman in a male-dominated field Balancing family relationships and career pursuits in a foreign land The meticulous research process behind crafting authentic settings and characters Lessons learned from a successful transition from geologist to novelist Links:
Mount Nemrut: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Nemrut D.J. Green Website: https://www.geologistwriter.com/ "No More Empty Spaces" Book: https://amzn.to/3UEvOwU Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bggVH0_ZAiI _
Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Oren Jay Sofer is a renowned author, meditation teacher, and nonviolent communication expert. His latest book, "Your Heart Was Made For This", offers a fresh perspective on contemplative practice, mindfulness, and personal transformation. Previously, Oren published the highly acclaimed "Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication". He has led sold-out retreats across the United States and online, guiding thousands on the path to realizing their full potential.
Discussed in this Episode:
The transformative power of contemplative practice beyond traditional meditation Strategies for cultivating positive qualities like joy, kindness, courage and rest The future of mindfulness and how Oren's approach broadens its accessibility Lessons learned from decades studying and teaching meditation and communication Insights on attention, concentration, self-care, and living with purpose in a complex world Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/95hyQFPReKw
Buy "Your Heart Was Made for This" by Oren Jay Sofer on Amazon: https://amzn.to/44arDvU
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Chikodi Anunobi is a talented Nigerian-born author who fearlessly tackles the complex issues of corruption, tribal conflicts, and political scandals in his gripping novel, "The Thief and the Patriot." With a unique perspective shaped by his upbringing in Nigeria and his experiences in the United States, Chikodi brings a fresh voice to the world of African literature. In this thought-provoking book, he skillfully weaves together a tale of power, greed, and the desperate struggle for survival in a nation grappling with its own identity.
Discussed in this Episode:
The real-life inspirations behind Chikodi's novel, "The Thief and the Patriot," and how he incorporates his experiences and observations of Nigerian culture and politics into his writing. Chikodi's journey from Nigeria to the United States, and how his background in software engineering and his passion for storytelling led him to become an author. The challenges and rewards of writing about sensitive topics such as corruption and tribal conflicts, and the impact Chikodi hopes his work will have on readers around the world. The fascinating insights into Nigeria's rich history, diverse tribal landscape, and the ongoing struggles faced by its people in the face of political instability and social inequality. An in-depth discussion of the main themes in "The Thief and the Patriot," including the complexities of cultural identity, the consequences of unchecked power, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/95wDG0j0xxw
Buy "The Thief and the Patriot" by Chikodi Anunobi on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4aBw3hZ
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.