David Robson's The Expectation Effect: How Your Mindset Can Change Your World is a captivating exploration of the untapped power of our thoughts. Unlike traditional self-help books, it goes beyond surface positivity, delving into the intricate connection between beliefs and life outcomes.
A standout feature is the examination of placebo effect studies, revealing the astonishing impact our minds can have on physical well-being, even when aware it's a placebo. This challenges preconceptions about what's achievable.
The book's uniqueness lies in recognizing the nuanced nature of expectations and avoiding one-size-fits-all solutions. Robson provides practical tips, emphasizing mindfulness and self-awareness in managing expectations.
The real magic is in Robson's storytelling, weaving anecdotes and case studies that transform abstract theories into relatable experiences. While acknowledging the limits of positive thinking, the book motivates action, stressing the need to marry mindset with tangible effort.
In essence, The Expectation Effect is more than a self-help guide; it's an invitation to explore uncharted territories within your expectations. It blends science, real-life stories, and actionable advice to equip readers with the knowledge and tools to actively shape their lives. Take a moment to ponder your expectations and unlock the hidden potential for personal transformation within your mindset.
Scaling People by CHJ is an insightful guide tailored for managers of managers, offering strategic advice on steering a company to success by prioritizing its most valuable asset: its people.
With experience at Google and Stripe, CHJ provides practical wisdom and examples for hiring, managing, and retaining talent in the face of rapid growth. This book delves into crucial aspects of running a company, covering founding principles, operational procedures, hiring strategies, team building, and performance metrics.
It stands out as one of the most practical business books, offering real-world advice applicable to high-level positions, especially in the tech industry. While the density may not appeal to everyone, the content proves relevant for those in top management roles within substantial or fast-growing companies.
CHJ's emphasis on process resonates throughout the book, underscoring the importance of structure for success. The inclusion of exercises and worksheets adds a hands-on dimension, providing tools for defining organizational foundations and effective hiring processes.
If you are at director-level or above, this book is a gold mine of good information. If you are not at that level, this book will probably put you to sleep. It is a dense compendium of information.
It's extremely rare for me to give a one-star rating, but this book definitely deserves it. Colleen Hoover's "It Ends With Us" is supposed to be a romance novel, but it ended up being a big disappointment.
The story follows Lily Bloom, trapped in a marriage just like the one she criticized her mother for staying in.
Hoover tries to make us question our views on abusive relationships through Lily's character. At the beginning, Lily resents her mother for enduring an abusive marriage, but when she herself becomes a victim, she starts to empathize with her mother. However, instead of seeking guidance and support from her mother in this difficult situation, Lily stubbornly tries to handle it on her own. This decision infuriated me as a reader.
I have to admit, though, that Hoover skillfully portrays the complexity of abusive relationships. Lily must grapple with the conflicting emotions and resentments she holds towards her mother. It's not as simple as just leaving; Lily realizes it's a complicated and heartbreaking process. Hoover challenges assumptions about why women stay in abusive relationships through her characters.
Unfortunately, the characters in this book fell flat for me. The sudden transformation of Ryle from a dreamy character to an abusive husband lacked depth and reasoning. The plot relied too heavily on unrealistic tropes. Overall, I didn't enjoy this book and found it difficult to relate to the characters.
A Touch of Darkness by Scarlett St. Clair is a thrilling and enchanting modern take on the Hades and Persephone myth. The story captivates from the beginning with its mix of mythology and contemporary twists.
St. Clair's'show don't tell' approach breathes life into the characters and scenes, making the narrative rich and engaging. The depiction of Hades' palace, especially the dreamy library, had me daydreaming of getting lost among the shelves for hours.
Persephone and Demeter's relatable dynamics touch on themes of parental control, adding depth to the story.
St. Clair brings the spice with palpable sexual tension that makes it impossible to put the book down. The mysterious nature surrounding Hades adds intrigue and keeps me turning the pages.
However, the novel isn't flawless. The abrupt cliffhanger ending left me craving resolution, and some unresolved plot points left me feeling a bit incomplete. Despite this, A Touch of Darkness is a captivating journey filled with passion and rebellion. St. Clair's storytelling and vivid imagination make it a promising start to a series I can't wait to continue.
If You Tell by Gregg Olsen takes readers on a heart-wrenching journey through the chilling true story of Shelly Knotek and the unimaginable abuse inflicted on her children. Olsen commendably highlights the victims' resilience, but the focus on family dynamics falls short of expectations. The characters feel one-dimensional, missing an opportunity to explore the psychology behind Shelly's actions. The dense and graphic content, coupled with a dragging middle section, makes for a challenging read. The pacing issues and a disjointed timeline contribute to a somewhat dissatisfying experience. While capturing unimaginable horrors, If You Tell falls short of being the best true crime, offering an okay but flawed narrative.
In My Dreams I Hold a Knife by Ashley Winstead is a refreshing standout in the world of crime novels and thrillers. The novel expertly blends suspense, nostalgia, and college dynamics, immersing readers in authentic portrayals of college friendships and Greek life. Winstead's attention to detail is commendable, capturing the excitement and occasional darkness of exclusive circles. The narrative maintains a masterful sense of suspense, with unexpected plot twists that keep readers eagerly turning the pages. While some characters may seem flat, their roles effectively drive the plot forward. Overall, Winstead's storytelling prowess makes this a must-read for fans of crime and suspenseful tales, leaving you wanting more.
A History of Wild Places takes readers on an enthralling journey through haunting landscapes, skillfully intertwining elements of fantasy and crime. The story's pacing initially demands patience, yet those who persevere will be rewarded as the tension and intrigue steadily mount.
Author Ernshaw truly excels at weaving together the eerie and mysterious, introducing us to a world of uncanny landscapes and peculiar events that send delightful shivers down the spine. The atmospheric setting she crafts is nothing short of commendable, enveloping readers in an unsettling yet captivating ambiance.
As the narrative deepens, secrets unfurl, and the plot thickens, it's impossible not to become deeply immersed in the enigmatic puzzle. Ernshaw's artful presentation of twists and turns keeps one guessing, reevaluating every assumption made along the way. The evolving complexity of the story is engaging, leaving readers hungry to decode the puzzle's intricacies.
However, the book falls a tad short in its conclusion. While the journey is nothing short of captivating, the resolution leaves some loose threads, causing a somewhat unsatisfying ambiguity to linger. This minor setback notwithstanding, "A History of Wild Places" remains a worthwhile read, particularly for enthusiasts of enigmatic and atmospheric tales.
Overall, A History of Wild Places is a rollercoaster of creepiness and intrigue. Despite a gradual start, the narrative grips you and doesn't let go. Fans of mysteries that pull you to the edge of your seat will relish this tale, even if the ending leaves a bit to be desired.
đ What a ride! From the first page to the last, I was swept away by the twists and turns of this dragon-filled world. đđĢ This book had the internet buzzing, so when a friend recommended it, I had to dive in. Enchanting and enthralling, I couldn't get enough.
đ Meet Violet Sorrengail, a book-loving soul forced into the elite dragon riders by her General mother. đđ She battles both dragons and rivals to carve her own place in this high-stakes world. As war rages on, secrets unravel, and the cost of leadership becomes painfully clear.
đŠī¸ The use of Gaelic words adds depth and charm, with dragons revealing their true names only to their riders. Each name holds meaning, making the world even more magical.
đ While the Gaelic touch is captivating, the world-building left me wanting more. I craved details about history, politics, and cultures that shaped the realm. đ°đ Iron Flame, I hope, will fill in those gaps and paint a richer picture.
â¤ī¸ The blend of romance and fantasy is like a perfectly crafted spell. Forth Wing leans more towards romance in a fantasy world, not hardcore high fantasy. If you're a fan of both, you'll be hooked! The steamy romance and morally gray characters had me glued.
đ§ Violet's journey as a cunning underdog was reminiscent of Ender's Game. đ¤ Despite her brilliance, she missed cues that frustrated me, but her strength of heart shone through. đ
đ Folklore's significance is woven beautifully, reminding us that stories shape history. âŗ
In summary, Forth Wing is a captivating adventure with magic, dragons, and romance. đâ¤ī¸ The Gaelic dragon names add an enchanting layer, even though more world-building would've satisfied my craving for depth. If you're into fantasy with a touch of romance and a coming-of-age twist, this is for you. â° I'm already counting down to November for more! đī¸â¨
Lessons in Chemistry is a delightful debut novel by Bonnie Garmus that is sure to scratch the fun and feminist itch.
Elizabeth Zott is a brilliant scientist who refuses to sit quietly in a box that someone else has deemed fitting for her. She is full of fun moments and heartwarming relationships.
While the themes and tone of the book are comparable to Greta Gerwig's Barbie, it falls a bit short of the depth. Overall, this is a delightful read that you will probably love if you don't take it too seriously.
Here are some of the things I loved about the book:
Elizabeth Zott is a fantastic character who is both relatable and inspiring.
The relationship between Elizabeth and Calvin is heartwarming and realistic.
The book is full of humor and wit.
The message of the book is empowering and hopeful.
Here are some of the things I didn't love about the book:
The book takes place in the early 1960s, but it doesn't mention any major historical events of the time.
The ending feels a bit too neat and tidy.
The book might be too light for some readers who are looking for a more serious and thought-provoking read.
Overall, I would definitely recommend Lessons in Chemistry to readers who are looking for a fun, feminist read. Just don't take it too seriously!
This spellbinding tale of love, loss, and the weight of our choices swept me off my feet, but the ending had me questioning some of my love.
In a moment of desperation to define her life for herself, Adeline makes a Faustian bargain. She exchanges her anonymity for an endless life of adventure. After 300 years alone, she finally finds someone she can connect with for more than just a night.
The interplay between the real world and the mystical one is flawlessly executed, with V.E. Schwab crafting a universe where past and present intertwine with captivating ease.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is not just a story; it's a deep exploration of the human experience and our quest for legacy. Schwab weaves a delicate tapestry of emotions, forcing the reader ponder the significance of our own impact on the world and those around us.
While I was captivated by Addie's incredible journey throughout the pages, I must admit that the ending left me with a bad taste in my mouth.
This is a haunting tale that pushes the boundaries of time, love, and the fleeting nature of life itself. While the ending may not be everyone's cup of tea, the journey is worth every page turned.