Colin C. Campbell’s Start. Scale. Exit. Repeat. is an indispensable resource for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. The book is structured into four sections: building a solid foundation, mastering business mechanics, understanding the importance of timing, and learning from real-world entrepreneurial stories. Campbell’s approach is practical and grounded in experience, offering readers not just the “what” but the crucial “how” for every stage of a business.
What sets this book apart is Campbell’s ability to blend inspiration with hard-earned wisdom. He writes with the authority of someone who has been through the trenches of entrepreneurship, and it shows in the way he carefully guides the reader from one stage to the next. The first section, which focuses on establishing a strong foundation, is particularly insightful. Campbell stresses the importance of a passionate “why” that fuels the entrepreneur’s drive, likening it to the spark that ignites a successful venture. This emphasis on having a clear purpose resonates deeply, making the reader think critically about their motivations and long-term goals.
The book’s middle sections are where Campbell truly shines as a mentor. He breaks down complex business mechanics into manageable steps, discussing key elements like identifying unique value propositions, tracking performance indicators, and scaling a business. His comparison of scaling to throwing gasoline on a fire is apt—done right, it can propel a business to new heights, but it must be approached with caution. Campbell doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges; instead, he offers clear, actionable advice that feels both realistic and empowering.
One of the most refreshing aspects of Campbell’s writing is his honesty about the uncertainties and risks involved in entrepreneurship. He acknowledges the role of luck but emphasizes that success is primarily about making informed decisions and taking the right actions. This blend of transparency and practical guidance makes Start. Scale. Exit. Repeat. more than just a business manual—it’s a roadmap that prepares you for the highs and lows of entrepreneurial life.
Campbell’s experience and straightforward approach make this book a must-read for anyone serious about building and growing a business. Whether you’re just starting, looking to scale, or planning an exit, this book has valuable insights for every step of the journey. Campbell’s blend of inspiration, cautionary advice, and practical tips make Start. Scale. Exit. Repeat. an essential companion for entrepreneurs.
Fatherhood in literature often delves into the emotional and moral challenges that define paternal relationships, and these complexities are intensified during times of war. A Mission Without Borders by Chad Robichaux offers a poignant exploration of this theme, recounting the author’s response to God’s call during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Alongside his son, Hunter, a fellow Marine, Chad leads a team of elite veterans on seven humanitarian missions. As they navigate the chaos and devastation of war, Chad’s faith deepens, learning to trust God with both his son’s safety and the purpose of their mission. The book captures the profound impact of the conflict on everyday Ukrainians, the crucial role of the Ukrainian church, and the unbreakable bond that forms between father and son in the face of adversity. Courage, hope, and selflessness are the central pillars of this inspiring narrative.
This book offers a raw and personal glimpse into the Russian invasion of Ukraine, told through the lens of a father and son confronting the horrors of war together. Chad’s steadfast faith, fueled by a divine sense of duty, forms the core of the story. One of the most powerful themes is the evolution of fatherhood, showing how a bond can be both tested and strengthened under extreme circumstances. Chad’s partnership with Hunter, as they face peril side by side, brings an emotional intensity to the story, revealing how the trials of war forge resilience and deepen relationships. Yet, A Mission Without Borders goes beyond the battlefield. It humanizes the conflict by portraying the struggles of ordinary Ukrainians, shedding light on the devastating toll war takes on daily life. One of the book’s most compelling aspects is its depiction of the Ukrainian church, emphasizing its pivotal role in resisting oppression and providing a beacon of hope amidst despair. Chad’s reflections on the moral imperative to step beyond comfort zones and help strangers—driven by compassion and faith—resonate powerfully throughout the narrative.
While the book is rich in heart and authenticity. For those drawn to stories of faith, family, and courage in the face of adversity, A Mission Without Borders is an inspiring and compelling read.
Ian Frazier, is a writer who, for lack of a better term, does the thing. If there is a place that fascinates him he goes to that place, immerses himself in it, and writes about it. And that’s exactly what he did for his new book about the Bronx called
. He joins us to talk about the history of the New York borough and even tells us how he mapped out the radius in which residents can smell cookies from a local bakery. Plus, he shares what items he brings with him when he goes out to explore a city.
Novelist Halle Butler understands our worst enemy is sometimes our own brain. Her dark, chaotic novel manages to be often hilarious yet relentlessly uncheerful.
Early in 1938, a woman named Addie Odear in Lexington, Kentucky, wrote Eleanor Roosevelt a letter. Appealing to the first lady’s “graciousness and kindness,” she asked for advice “as to the proper way to proceed in a matter which is very close to my heart.” Two days after the letter arrived, a staff member in […]
Sophia Rose is here with a review of Darkside by Michael Mammay, a standalone story in the Planetside series. Come see why Sophia recommends this for readers of sci-fi mysteries, thrillers, and military space operas.
Darkside by Michael Mammay Series: Planetside #4 Genres: Science Fiction, Thriller Source: Publisher Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating:
In this thrilling, action-packed fourth installment in the Planetside series from acclaimed science fiction author Michael Mammay, retired Colonel Carl Butler gears up for another military investigation, full of danger, corporate intrigue, and tech people would kill for—perfect for fans of John Scalzi and Craig Alanson.
Colonel Butler has paid his dues and just wants to enjoy his retirement on a remote planet. But the galaxy has had other plans. He has been roped into searching for a politician’s missing son and an industry magnate’s missing daughter. He has been kidnapped, violated numerous laws, and caused the destruction of colonial facilities. He’s famous—or infamous, depending on who you ask—praised and reviled in equal measure across the galaxy for his exploits.
And he is determined to never let the government drag him into another investigation.
But when a runaway twelve-year-old girl whose father has gone missing asks him for help, well…it’s a lot harder to say no.
The girl’s father, Jorge Ramiro, was supposed to have been on Taug, a moon orbiting the gas giant Ridia 5, working on a dig with a famous archaeologist. But now there’s no sign of him and no record of him being there. Mining operations on the moon are run by two different consortiums, Caliber and Omicron—both of which have tried to kill Butler in the past. Butler doesn’t believe in coincidence.
Landing on Taug with his right-hand man Mac, computer genius Ganos, and an elite security squad, Butler soon finds that they’ve charged back into the crosshairs—because Ramiro is not the only who has disappeared, and the perpetual darkside of this moon is hiding more than the truth about a missing archeologist…
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Sophia Rose’s Review
No more military missions. No more battling big corporations who literally got away with murder. Retired life is good. Then a runaway twelve-year-old girl begs the most infamous people finder in the galaxy to find her missing father. This was my first visit to Michael Mammay’s writing, and I was eager to try a sci-fi thriller with mystery and intrigue.
Darkside is the fourth book in the Planetside series following the exploits of Colonel Carl Butler as he got the job done by coloring outside the lines and hanging tough as the underdog up against the powerful corporations and sometimes his own military. Darkside can be read standalone- which is what I did- with little trouble. For series fans, Darkside comes along after the author took time away to write other stuff, so there is a handy review of Carl Butler’s previous adventures right at the beginning to get old-timers and newcomers up to speed.
I’m not sure what I was expecting when I picked this up other than a mystery around the disappearance of an archeologist on a mining moon and a retired missing person investigator taking the case. This was that, but it was also a big action thriller with good political intrigue. Colonel Carl Butler is something of an anti-hero. He tends to get the job done and doesn’t sweat it if this means bending or breaking the rules and thumbing his nose at the powers that be. That said, his moral compass points true north and he’s one of the good guys along with his trusty team, particularly Mac, who has been with him a long time.
The writing style took some adjustment. It’s got a passive voice quality to it that mutes rather than sharpens the actions scenes. But, I don’t mean that it is passive voice because there is lots of action and dialogue, even monologue, inside Butler’s fascinating mind.
Carl Butler is the focus, and he’s larger than life with his experience and his charisma. He plays the soldier to perfection and loves to let his enemies underestimate his ability to play chess several moves out. I loved how Butler and his people go up against two big powerful mining corporations he’s had rough dealings with in the past and he’s even got the local military keyed up about his presence because of his notorious past missions. He’s walking a tightrope the whole time. He finds out quickly this is much bigger and more complicated than locating a missing man. I enjoyed the twisting, exciting trail he had to follow to the truth. There are so many times he seems to be checkmated, but then he pulls a brilliant move and outwits his opponents.
I ended up enjoying this and the surprise twists and action sequences. My only niggle was the abrupt ending. Sure, things are pretty much wrapped up, but it just stops. At least, I have a nice stack of series backlist books to go back and get more of Carl Butler’s thrillers from the beginning.
As to recommendations, yes, sci-fi mystery fans might be a target, but for sure those who enjoy military space opera, sci-fi thrillers and adventures.
Amazon | Audible
About Michael Mammay
Michael Mammay is a retired army officer and a graduate of the United States Military Academy. He has a masters degree in military history, and he is a veteran of more wars than he cares to remember. His first novel, PLANETSIDE, was a Library Journal ‘Best books of 2018’ pick and the sequels, SPACESIDE and COLONYSIDE, received starred reviews. GENERATION SHIP is his first foray out of the military SF sub-genre and comes out in October of 2023. He lives with his family in Georgia.
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About Sophia Rose
Sophia is a quiet though curious gal who dabbles in cooking, book reviewing, and gardening. Encouraged and supported by an incredible man and loving family. A Northern Californian transplant to the Great Lakes Region of the US. Lover of Jane Austen, Baseball, Cats, Scooby Doo, and Chocolate.
Moses and Akhenaten by Sharon Janet Hague takes on the ambitious theory that the biblical Moses and the Egyptian Pharaoh Akhenaten were the same person. The book weaves historical analysis and imaginative storytelling, proposing that the famous biblical exodus and Akhenaten’s religious revolution are intertwined stories of the same man. Through a blend of fictional dialogue, historical narrative, and philosophical musings, Hague presents a compelling story for this theory.
The book is a unique mix of informal conversation and deep historical exploration. At times, it feels like sitting in on a heated debate among scholars as characters such as Walter, Tom, and Ernest discuss the possible connections between Moses and Akhenaten. For instance, Tom’s logical statement, “If Theodore Davis’ discovery in cache number fifty-five was Akhenaten’s body, then Akhenaten cannot be Moses,” drives home the tension between hard evidence and speculative theory. This dynamic made the book engaging and made me feel like I was part of an intellectual journey, though I feel that sometimes the debates veered into detailed and repetitive territory.
One of the things I loved about the book was its willingness to tackle big ideas with an unapologetic mix of history and conjecture. The idea that Akhenaten’s monotheism predates and even influences the Jewish faith is thought-provoking, and Hague doesn’t shy away from pushing that theory. She writes, “Nobody can convince me that billions of people worshipping one god, thirty-one centuries later is anything but a success”, showcasing Akhenaten’s monumental impact, whether or not he was Moses. While the story borders on speculative fiction, Hague’s presentation of Akhenaten as a revolutionary and somewhat tragic figure is heartfelt, bringing life to what could otherwise have been a dry historical argument. At one point, Akhenaten himself complains about modern perceptions of him: “I can’t tell you how heartily sick I am of being labeled everything from a weak king to a Nazi.” Moments like this add a humorous, almost anachronistic flavor that, while entertaining, sometimes undermines the gravitas of the subject. Still, the book’s casual conversations helped break down the dense historical material, making it more digestible and approachable for readers less familiar with ancient Egypt’s intricacies.
Moses and Akhenaten is a fascinating blend of historical theory and speculative storytelling. It’s ideal for readers who enjoy mixing history with a splash of imaginative fiction. If you’re a fan of ancient history, religious studies, or philosophical debates on the origins of faith, this book will keep you thinking long after you’ve finished it.
The Orbriallis Institute – Lost Grove: Part Two is a captivating and unique tale, blending mystery with a sense of eerie suspense. From the very first paragraphs, the reader is plunged into a creepy and enigmatic situation that immediately sparks curiosity and compels you to keep turning the pages. The writing is gripping, pulling you deeper into the story with each detailed description that vividly brings the scenarios to life. Set in the small, quiet town of Lost Grove, the book’s atmosphere is beautifully crafted, evoking a sense of unease in the reader. The town’s eerie silence, coupled with the mysteries and secrets that the characters harbor, creates a palpable tension. As the story unfolds, each new character introduced adds another layer to the intrigue, and their connections gradually reveal the larger narrative at play.
The characters themselves are fascinating, with some exuding an unsettling, almost creepy vibe. The author excels at painting vivid pictures of both the people and the settings, making it easy to immerse yourself in the world of Lost Grove. This depth of detail enhances the reading experience, allowing you to fully delve into the lives of the characters and become engrossed in the unfolding mystery. The author’s writing style is one of the highlights of Lost Grove. It is consistently engaging and richly descriptive, never faltering in its ability to draw the reader in. The combination of intriguing characters, a well-paced plot, and a hauntingly atmospheric setting makes this book a standout in the mystery and horror genre. The character development in Lost Grove, Part Two is also commendable. The authors skillfully depict the complexities of the characters’ relationships, particularly the bond between Noble and his sister Zoe, and the tension surrounding Nettie’s belief in the “Green Man.” The way the characters grapple with their fears and the unknown adds depth to the story, making it not just a mystery, but also a compelling exploration of human emotions under pressure. I also appreciated the book’s handling of the supernatural elements, which are introduced with a subtlety that makes them feel grounded in the world of Lost Grove. The hints of folklore and the mysteries surrounding the Orbriallis Institute create a rich backdrop for the story.
I would recommend The Orbriallis Institute: Lost Grove: Part Two to anyone who enjoys mysterious and horror-filled tales. The author’s skillful use of description and character development makes it a compelling read from start to finish. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of the genre or just looking for a good book to get lost in, Lost Grove is sure to satisfy.
The Devil’s Wrath by Rico Liemanto presents a gripping dark fantasy tale where twin gods, Kota and Gurita, watch over the world with constant vigilance. However, their greatest fear is about to unfold: Setan, the God of Devils, is on the verge of returning. Two centuries ago, Setan’s brief but catastrophic appearance left millions dead and countless others corrupted. Now, with Setan’s resurgence imminent, the gods must once again rally heroes to stand against him. Panah, Ular, Maling, and Tuli—four unlikely champions—are chosen to embark on a dangerous quest to vanquish this fearsome enemy.
Liemanto’s The Devil’s Wrath channels the energy of a fast-paced video game, transforming it into a vivid literary experience. Drawing inspiration from games like Elden Ring and Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous, the novel echoes the dynamic storytelling of movies like Mortal Kombat or Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. It offers a refreshing twist on the classic narrative of reluctant heroes embarking on a perilous journey at the command of higher powers. The reluctant quartet—each with unique abilities and personalities—initially struggles under the weight of their divine mandate. They have little in common, and their newfound roles as the gods’ acolytes are far from voluntary. Yet, as their mission becomes clearer, they are united by the immense threat they face. The development of their characters, particularly their clashing yet complementary dynamics, adds depth and enjoyment to the story. Much like a superhero team-up, the joy lies in watching these disparate individuals come together to confront a shared enemy. Setan and his minions provide formidable antagonists for the group, setting the stage for several pulse-pounding battle sequences. But the book doesn’t rely solely on action—Liemanto masterfully weaves in an intricate mythology, slowly unraveling the mysteries of this richly imagined world. This blend of thrilling combat and deep world-building ensures that the novel strikes a satisfying balance for fans of both fast-paced action and complex, immersive storytelling.
The Devil’s Wrath is a gripping dark fantasy with a slow-burning adventure that delivers explosive battles alongside layers of mythology. With its compelling characters, high stakes, and richly crafted universe, it promises to engage readers who love both intense action and thoughtful world-building.
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Early in 1938, a woman named Addie Odear in Lexington, Kentucky, wrote Eleanor Roosevelt a letter. Appealing to the first lady’s “graciousness and kindness,” she asked for advice “as to the proper way to proceed in a matter which is very close to my heart.” Two days after the letter arrived, a staff member in […]
A dispatch from the Art Editor
