Best Independent Books October 9
We are delighted to recommend the following books from the independent publishing sector.
FICTION
Manhattan: The Rising War (Studio Edition)
by Sal Cosenza
In this book, the author reimagines the iconic Manhattan skyline as a battleground of myth and power, blending epic storytelling with the visual grandeur of his acclaimed painting series. This unique edition invites readers to experience both the sweeping narrative and the creative process behind it.
Lady Liberty emerges anew as a colossal tower of hope, while the ancient deities Schist and Pegmatite embody life’s resilience and nature’s fury. Manhattan itself becomes a character — visionary, unyielding and ever-evolving — caught in a war of creation versus destruction.
Beyond the novel’s gripping battles, the studio edition unveils never-before-seen sketches, concept drawings and production notes along with five monumental paintings crafted over nearly two decades. This rare fusion of literature and art offers a front-row seat to the imagination that shaped this mythic world.
Honors: seen on MarketWatch
Category: Literature & Fiction
ISBN: 979-8990118164
NON-FICTION
Ordinary Founder: A Grit-and-Profit Playbook for Entrepreneurs
by Pavel Danek
This book is a brutally honest, no-fluff guide that every entrepreneur needs, but rarely gets. The author pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to build a business from the ground up, offering a raw, unfiltered look at the grit, heartbreak and hard-won victories that define the entrepreneurial journey.
This playbook isn’t about polished success stories or overnight wins. It’s forged from failure, perseverance and real-world lessons that actually work. The author shares how to rebuild after crushing setbacks, master finances while staying purpose-driven, and transition from solo hustle to aligned leadership. His insights are grounded in experience and backed by proven frameworks, tools and data that help founders grow smarter and stronger.
With powerful storytelling and practical strategy, this book empowers entrepreneurs to embrace discomfort, lead with clarity and build businesses that thrive. It’s a guide for those who want more than hype; who want results rooted in resilience
Honors: seen on MarketWatch
Category: Business
ISBN: 978-8011069674
Trade Works: The Trade Finance Investor
by Andreas Schweitzer
This book is a comprehensive guide to investing in trade finance, an asset class that offers attractive returns, low risk and high social impact.
In this book, the author shares his insights and the results of two years of intense research. He covers topics such as the history, mechanics and benefits of trade finance; the current market situation and opportunities; and the best practices and strategies for investors. The book has a simplicity and clarity of writing which is perfectly crafted for anyone interested in finance. The author teaches readers how to reap the rewards of this financial trade gap.
In a time when global markets are redefining themselves, this book presents a practical and strategic roadmap for those ready to explore one of the most consistent and impactful avenues of alternative investing.
Honors: seen on MarketWatch
Category: Business
ISBN: 978-1637352328
Some Miracles Need a Mom: Developing Your Child's Future
by Sandy McKeown
This book is a beacon of hope for parents seeking to guide their children towards a bright future.
The author offers a unique perspective on the Gospel story of the Wedding in Cana, exploring the pivotal role of Mary, Jesus’s mother, in the miracle of turning water into wine. Through heartfelt anecdotes and humor, the author shares her journey of raising five children, emphasizing the power of tenacity and prayer in nurturing a child’s potential.
This book is an inspiring story of dreaming big, overcoming struggles and witnessing God’s miracles in the lives of a remarkable family. It’s a reminder that the situations we face are not hopeless. It’s a testament to the idea that when a mother prays, extraordinary things happen.
A beautifully written exploration of the complicated bonds between parents and children — Readers’ FavoriteHonors: seen on MarketWatch
Category: Religion & Spirituality
ISBN: 978-1637351000
The Vanguard Edge: Your 6-Step Method to Unparalleled Team Success
by Bryan Howard
This book is a groundbreaking guide to transforming team development and achieving operational excellence.
The author provides a treasure trove of insights and strategies that will revolutionize the way a team operates and excels. It provides a comprehensive roadmap to cultivating a growth-oriented mindset, defining a clear and compelling team mission, structuring a team for maximum efficiency and crafting a powerful team message that resonates and inspires.
In this book, the author describes effective methods to measure and enhance team performance, turning metrics into a roadmap for success. This book is more than just a guide; it’s a gateway to achieving team synergy and elevating a team’s performance.
Honors: seen on MarketWatch
Category: Business
ISBN: 978-1637352724
In case you missed the books featured in the last newsletter, here they are again:
NON-FICTION
The Black Belt in Leadership: 20 Tested Lessons from the Dojo to the Boardroom
by Aslak de Silva
Leadership isn’t just about strategy or charisma — it’s about discipline, presence and the ability to perform under pressure. In this book, the author, a world-champion martial artist and an acclaimed business leader, draws from nearly 100 full-contact fights to deliver a powerful guide for leaders who want to sharpen their mindset and lead with purpose.
Through 20 tested lessons, the author blends gripping personal stories with practical frameworks and actionable exercises. He reveals how the principles forged in the dojo — resilience, focus, emotional control and clarity in conflict — translate directly into the boardroom. He teaches how to cultivate a fighter’s mindset, influence with empathy, and lead with calm confidence in high-stakes environments.
This book challenges leaders to embrace discomfort, push through adversity, and evolve beyond conventional approaches. Grounded in real leadership experience, not just theory, it’s a blueprint for leading with clarity, grace and unstoppable momentum.
Honors: seen on MarketWatch
Category: Business
ISBN: 978-9528804901
We Have Nothing to Lose: A Dark Optimist's Call to Action
by Ralph H. Groce III
This book is a bold exploration of leadership, responsibility and the urgency of acting in a world on the cusp of pivotal change. The author presents an unflinching narrative that intertwines personal memoir with a passionate political manifesto.
With his audacious life story as a backdrop, the author presents thought-provoking insights on the power of individual choice and responsibility. The book offers a critical look at current global and political challenges, providing actionable solutions. Inspiring stories of overcoming adversity demonstrate the impact of principled leadership.
Standing at the intersection of personal experience and public service, the author offers a stirring vision for a better future, emphasizing the need for intentional actions. His powerful message resonates with free thinkers and anyone seeking to be a catalyst in today's complex world.
Honors: seen on MarketWatch
Category: Business
ISBN: 978-1637353257
Strides to Blissful Leadership: How to Succeed in Business and Life
by Arvind Sharma
This insightful guide goes beyond a typical leadership manual. It focuses on the principles of integrity and respect, and points to a service-oriented mindset that has brought success on many levels.
The author shares how following high principles enabled him to find immense professional and personal satisfaction. In this short book, he teaches how to gain confidence in dealing with difficult people and situations. He explains how to organize priorities in line with personal principles, how to understand the perspective of others and how to use respect to foster teamwork and strengthen family relationships for a generational impact.
Using examples from his own life and career, the author provides sage advice on how to navigate the challenges of leadership in a cross-cultural environment.
Honors: seen on MarketWatch
Category: Business
ISBN: 978-1637351758
HR You Kidding Me?: Surprisingly Simple Steps to Unlock the Power of People
by Cory Sanford
This book provides a fresh perspective on the evolving needs of companies and their employees, highlighting the shortcomings of conventional HR methods.
The book is filled with humorous anecdotes, actionable insights and proven strategies. It serves as a valuable resource for HR professionals, managers and leaders who are ready to embrace change and drive their organizations forward. The author describes the latest leadership hacks tailored for the new-age workforce. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a resilient workplace culture that can thrive amid challenges. The book also offers insights into mastering the art of hiring for cultural fit, a crucial aspect often overlooked in traditional HR practices. The complexities of onboarding and offboarding are addressed with practical solutions.
This revolutionary book challenges the traditional norms of human resources and leadership. The author introduces HR tools that are not just theoretical but make a real difference in the workplace.
Honors: seen on MarketWatch
Category: Business
ISBN: 978-1637352038
Game On: Leaders Who Last
by Shawn Sukhraj Johal
The book paints a realistic picture of entrepreneurship, far from the glamorous image often portrayed. It acknowledges the hard work, obstacles and constant skill-building that are necessary for success.
Through personal stories, the authors share their experiences of leveling up in their careers, offering readers an insider look into the resilience needed to persist as a business leader. From a brand storyteller’s underdog mentality to a global entrepreneur’s venture inspired by a documentary, the book covers a diverse range of perspectives. It includes tales of adapting during a pandemic, applying the principle of kaizen for growth and the power of intuition in business decision-making.
This book is a source of motivation and guidance for entrepreneurs facing the chaotic nature of business ownership. It’s an invitation to power up with the advice of those who have tamed the lions of success and to go the distance in any industry.
The voices throughout the book are strong and convincing. Although there are many, there is still a thick cord of strength in each that leads you straight from page 1 until the very end. — Readers’ FavoriteHonors: seen on MarketWatch
Category: Business
ISBN: 978-1637352007
We trust that your readers will enjoy our hand-picked selection.
For more bestselling and award-winning books from the independent publishing sector, please go here.
Warm regards,
Alinka Rutkowska
CEO, LibraryBub
