A CLOSER LOOK AT MARCH’S
SOUTH OF SEPHARAD
By Eric Z. Weintraub
Fleeing death by the Spanish Inquisition, a Jewish doctor must make an impossible choice.
THE BOOK
Embark on an unforgettable journey through history with “South of Sepharad.” In the heart of 15th-century Spain, Dr. Vidal ha-Rofeh faces a harrowing choice: convert to Catholicism or face death at the hands of the Inquisition. Refusing to betray his faith, Vidal leads his family on a perilous journey to freedom, leaving behind loved ones and familiar lands.
As they traverse treacherous paths to Fez, Morocco, Vidal grapples with the weight of his responsibilities as both a healer and a patriarch. Meanwhile, his daughter confronts the horrors of the Inquisition, testing the limits of her newfound identity. Rich in historical detail and emotional depth, this gripping tale sheds light on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of persecution. Join Vidal and his family as they navigate the tumultuous waters of faith, family, and exile in “South of Sepharad.”
THE AUTHOR
Eric Z. Weintraub earned an MFA in Creative Writing from Mount St. Mary’s University where he wrote his debut novel South of Sepharad. Growing up in Los Angeles, CA, he came from a family of filmmakers, writers, and educators stirring in him a passion for storytelling from a young age. His short fiction has appeared in Tabula Rasa Review, Halfway Down the Stairs, The Rush, and elsewhere. His novella Dreams of an American Exile won the 2015 Plaza Literary Prize and was published by Black Hill Press. His short story collection The 28th Parallel was a finalist for the 2021 Flannery O’Connor Award in Short Fiction. When not writing fiction, Eric profiles true stories of complex medical cases where he works at the Keck School of Medicine of USC.
BABY X
By Kira Peikoff
When any biological matter can be used to create life, stolen celebrity DNA sells to the highest bidder.
THE BOOK
Dive into the pulse-pounding world of “Baby X,” a gripping thriller set in a near-future America where technology blurs the lines of parenthood. Trace Thorne, a renowned singer, finds himself at the mercy of the Vault, a clandestine operation stealing DNA from celebrities. Enter Ember Ryan, a determined bio-security guard hired to safeguard Thorne’s genetic material. As Ember races against time to protect her client, she finds herself ensnared in a dangerous game of love and deception.
With twists and turns at every corner, “Baby X” explores the terrifying consequences of advanced technology and the lengths one will go to protect their identity. Prepare for a heart-pounding ride that will leave you breathless until the very end. Perfect for fans of suspenseful thrillers, this book is a must-read for anyone craving an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
THE AUTHOR
Kira Peikoff is the author of Baby X, Mother Knows Best, Living Proof, No Time to Die, and Die Again Tomorrow. She has a degree in journalism from New York University and master’s in bioethics from Columbia. Her reported articles have appeared in The New York Times, Newsweek, Popular Mechanics and other outlets.
She now works in biotech communications helping spread the word about transformative developments in the life sciences. Peikoff is a proud member of The Authors Guild, International Thriller Writers, and Mystery Writers of America. She lives in New Jersey with her husband and two sons.
TRICKING POWER INTO PERFORMING ACTS OF LOVE
By Shepherd Siegel PhD
What would happen if society took life a bit less seriously?
THE BOOK
“Tricking Power into Performing Acts of Love” offers a provocative exploration of society’s complex dynamics through the lens of humor and wisdom. Richard Pryor’s prophetic narration of the George Floyd tragedy in 1979, decades before it unfolded, sets the stage for a profound examination of cultural archetypes and the transformative power of the Trickster. With humor as his tool, Pryor prepares audiences for today’s societal reckoning, inviting reflection on the roles we inhabit and the forces that shape our world.
This insightful book challenges conventional wisdom, advocating for a more playful and compassionate approach to navigating contemporary challenges. In an era marked by political strife and cultural division, “Tricking Power into Performing Acts of Love” offers a refreshing perspective that resonates deeply with readers seeking clarity and hope amidst uncertainty. Join the conversation and discover the timeless wisdom of embracing love and playfulness in the face of power.
THE AUTHOR
Shepherd Siegel, PhD is an activist, previous professional rock and jazz musician, and educator in music, career + technical, and special education. His first teaching assignment was with youth in lockup in the County Juvenile Detention Center. Striving to make the greatest positive impact, he earned his doctorate from UC Berkeley while inventing innovative internship programs for troubled and troubling youth, including those with disabilities. Along the way, he played with the jazz trio Swingmatism and the power pop band Thin Ice. While more active as a writer, Dr. Siegel sustains a wide-ranging interest in music. He has written over 30 peer-reviewed and other published journal articles, a textbook that enjoyed two editions (Career Ladders), and the 2018 book Disruptive Play.
Dr. Siegel is uniquely qualified to train his playful lens on politics and culture and tease out the Trickster element as it has shown up, tickled society, and then just as quickly disappeared. His diverse academic background—degrees in music, career + technical, administration and special education, and studies in anthropology—equip his scholarly pursuits. His activism grows out of the new visions forged in the bohemia of the San Francisco Bay Area. His presentations and talks have established him as a reliable and entertaining public intellectual on the subject of tricksters in politics and culture. Born in Chicago, Dr. Siegel has lived the longest in the Bay Area and Seattle, where he now resides.
THE DESTINATION BIRTH
By Alexander Wage Bisset
One couple’s birth story becomes a grand adventure.
THE BOOK
Prepare to be swept away on an unforgettable journey in “The Destination Birth.” Alex and Lauren’s birth story unfolds into a grand adventure, taking them thousands of miles from home and presenting unexpected twists of fate. This heartwarming and inspiring tale is more than just a story—it’s a rollercoaster of emotions that will have you laughing one moment and reaching for tissues the next. Amidst the tears and laughter, you’ll discover the remarkable resilience of the human spirit and the unbreakable bond between parent and child.
With each turn of the page, you’ll be reminded of the power of love, family, and determination. Join us on this wild ride and be moved, inspired, and uplifted by the extraordinary strength found within the pages of “The Destination Birth.” Plus, with 10% of proceeds supporting the Bozeman-Deaconness Hospital NICU, your purchase makes a difference in the lives of families in need.
THE AUTHOR
Alex Bisset was born and raised in Fairfield, Connecticut and has a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin—Madison. Alex considers his family and friends to be most important to him, and spending time with his daughter brings a smile to his face every day. He is an avid outdoorsman and adventurer, and loves to exercise, stemming from his time spent as a member of the University of Wisconsin Men’s Varsity Rowing team. Alex currently resides in NYC with his wife, Lauren, and daughter Everly. The Destination Birth is Alex’s first book.
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ONCE UPON TOMORROW
By Shurick Agapitov
Unpack the vague concept of the metaverse and share the opportunities that will be available in the new world.
THE BOOK
Step into the future with “Once Upon Tomorrow,” where visionary tech CEO Shurick Agapitov unveils the next evolution of the internet: the Metaverse. With the internet already revolutionizing how we access information and connect, the Metaverse promises to take us even further, blurring the lines between virtual and reality. Agapitov’s insightful exploration delves into what the Metaverse is and what it means for humanity’s future. This isn’t just about technology; it’s a paradigm shift that will redefine how we live, work, and play.
From immersive experiences to limitless opportunities, the Metaverse offers a glimpse into a world where anything is possible. Join Agapitov on this exhilarating journey as he navigates the complexities and possibilities of this bold new frontier. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or simply curious about what lies ahead, “Once Upon Tomorrow” promises to inspire and enlighten, paving the way for a future limited only by our imagination.
THE AUTHOR
Born in 1984, Agapitov grew up in Perm, Russia, a challenging environment within the old Soviet Union. At fifteen, he drew upon his entrepreneurial spirit, strengths in math, and belief in the power of education to start an online currency exchange service, transitioning into the area of digital gaming and aggregation. He moved to the United States with his wife Yana in 2009.
Xsolla continues to grow its footprint across customers, gamers, and the investment community. Agapitov also carries a strong interest and investment portfolio in healthcare science and technology, specifically with life extension.
Agapitov studied Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Perm with post-graduate education at Harvard Business School, Wharton, and UCLA Anderson School of Management.
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MESSED UP LIKE YOU
By Rick Culleton
“What do you want to be when you grow up?” Rick Culleton’s answer never changed: not poor.
THE BOOK
Prepare to be inspired by “Messed Up Like You,” a captivating tale of resilience and redemption that proves no obstacle is too great to overcome. Rick Culleton’s journey from troubled youth to successful entrepreneur, pilot, and athlete is a testament to the power of perseverance. Through harrowing trials and setbacks, Rick never lost sight of his dreams. From flight school lessons to navigating bankruptcy and prison sentences, his story is one of triumph over adversity.
This book isn’t just for those who dream of soaring—it’s for anyone who refuses to let their past define their future. Let Rick’s story motivate you to pursue your own dreams, no matter the odds. With humor, heart, and unwavering determination, “Messed Up Like You” will leave you inspired to embrace your own potential and rewrite your story.
THE AUTHOR
Rick Culleton is a licensed pilot and successful entrepreneur in Texas and Costa Rica. He has won awards for tae kwon do and triathlons and earned recognition for his work with public schools in Texas and a nonprofit group in Costa Rica that supports at-risk children. Culleton and his wife, Katherine, have two children. His debut book, Messed Up Like You, shows how success comes not from talent but from effort.
RISING STAR
By Michele Kwasniewski
Fame is a double-edged sword.
THE BOOK
Get ready for a dazzling journey into the world of fame and self-discovery with Rising Star, the captivating first installment of THE RISE AND FALL OF DANI TRUEHART series. Follow fifteen-year-old Dani Truehart as she navigates the treacherous waters of the music industry, torn between her mother’s ambitions and her own dreams. With a brilliant audition catapulting her into the limelight under the guardianship of former pop icon Martin Fox, Dani must grapple with the pressures of stardom while questioning the motivations of those around her.
As she strives to find her voice as an artist amidst the chaos of fame and ambition, Dani faces challenges that threaten to unravel her dreams. Packed with drama, intrigue, and heartfelt moments, Rising Star is a must-read for fans of coming-of-age stories and tales of perseverance in the face of adversity. Join Dani on her journey to fame and self-discovery today!
THE AUTHOR
After graduating from Loyola Marymount University with a BA in Technical Theater, Michele Kwasniewski spent over fifteen years in film and television production. Starting out as a film set assistant on movies such as Independence Day, Face/Off, Primal Fear, and Evita, Michele eventually switched to the small screen and worked her way up the ladder to production manager, gaining experience on television shows such as Big Brother, Adoption Stories, Extra Yardage and Meet The Pandas. She is also a proud member of the Producers Guild of America. Michele’s colorful experiences in the industry inspired her to write THE RISE AND FALL OF DANI TRUEHART series. Michele lives in San Clemente, California with her husband, their son, and their disobedient dachshund.
