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Light of the Desert: A Novel Exposing Honor Killings in the Modern World

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Light of the Desert: A Novel Exposing Honor Killings in the Modern World

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Book Spectrum, host Chris Cordani speaks with author Lucette Walters about her novel Light of the Desert—a harrowing, eye-opening story inspired by real events and lived experiences surrounding arranged marriages, honor violence, and the oppression of women across cultures and borders. Set between 1993 and 2001, Light of the Desert follows Nora, a young woman who flees an abusive arranged marriage and becomes the target of an honor killing, forcing her on a desperate journey across continents. Walters reveals how a childhood experience in Egypt—learning of a ten-year-old girl married to a much older man—haunted her for decades and ultimately compelled her to tell this story. Book Spectrum 12 12 3pm eastern… Throughout the conversation, Walters and Cordani explore the uncomfortable reality that honor violence is not a relic of the distant past, nor confined to far-off places. The episode addresses how these practices continue today—in parts of the Middle East, Europe, the UK, and even the United States—often hidden behind cultural silence, fear, and misplaced accusations of intolerance. Topics discussed in this episode include:

  • The real-world inspiration behind Light of the Desert
  • Arranged marriages and honor killings in modern society
  • How cultural traditions can be weaponized against women
  • Why victims are often betrayed by their own families
  • The psychological complexity of abusers and enablers
  • Why these crimes are frequently ignored or silenced
  • The importance of awareness, vigilance, and intervention
  • Walters’ personal connection to the locations and characters in the novel
  • How the book is being developed into a feature film

Walters also explains why she chose to give every character—including perpetrators—a fully realized emotional perspective, allowing readers to understand how belief systems, jealousy, power, and fear intersect to create tragic outcomes.

📘 Order the book: Light of the Desert
👉 https://www.amazon.com/Light-Desert-Lucette-Walters/dp/1425977480
🎬 Coming Soon: Light of the Desert is currently in development as a feature film.
🎙️ Listen now to a conversation that sheds light on a hidden global crisis—and why telling these stories can help save lives

Posted in: Non-Fiction, Philosophy and Religon Posted on

What Is Reality? A Revolutionary Look at the Universe and Life with Robert Truax

In this intellectually rich episode of Book Spectrum, host Chris Cordani is joined by philosopher and author Robert Truax to explore the profound questions at the heart of existence: What is reality? Who are we? And how do science and spirituality truly relate? Truax’s book, Reality 2.0: A Revolutionary New Look at the Universe and Life, challenges the long-standing divide between materialist science and faith-based belief systems. Drawing on philosophy, quantum physics, metaphysics, and rational inquiry, Truax argues that modern civilization has reached a point where science alone—limited to the physical universe—can no longer fully explain consciousness, meaning, or purpose. S7 E06 -Robert Truax_otter_ai Throughout the conversation, Truax explains why strict materialism undermines human fulfillment and social cohesion, and how a synthesis of rational science and workable spirituality offers a clearer understanding of reality itself. He introduces his concept of an animating, non-physical force underlying existence—what he describes as the true foundation of life and consciousness. Topics covered in this episode include:

  • The historic conflict between science and faith—and why it’s outdated
  • How philosophy bridges gaps left by modern scientific materialism
  • Why quantum physics challenges purely physical explanations of reality
  • The concept of consciousness as a creative, non-physical force
  • Why meaning, happiness, and morality cannot be derived from material wealth
  • How ideology differs from rational philosophy
  • The dangers of emotion-driven belief systems
  • The difference between “technologies of life” and “technologies of stuff”
  • How individuals participate in shaping reality itself
  • What it means to live with purpose in a non-material universe

Truax also discusses how his personal background and philosophical journey informed Reality 2.0, offering listeners and readers a practical framework for rethinking existence, spirituality, and human purpose in a scientifically grounded—but spiritually expansive—way. 📘 Order the book:
Reality 2.0: A Revolutionary New Look at the Universe and Life
👉 https://www.amazon.com/Reality-2-0-Revolutionary-Look-Universe/dp/1947436074 🎙️ Listen now to a conversation that challenges assumptions, bridges science and spirituality, and redefines what it means to understand reality.

Posted in: Advice For Authors, Business, Non-Fiction, Uncategorized Posted on

Book Marketing Secrets from a 30-Year Publishing Insider

Chris Cordani sits down with Scott Lorenz, one of the most respected book publicists in the industry and the founder of Westwind Book Marketing. With more than three decades of experience promoting books across every major genre, Scott breaks down what authors really need to know after they finish writing their book—and why publishing is only the beginning. Scott shares practical, real-world advice for aspiring and established authors navigating today’s crowded publishing landscape. From Amazon self-publishing and media outreach to book titles, cover design, social media strategy, and press releases, this episode delivers a masterclass in modern book promotion. In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • What aspiring authors should do before they write their first book
  • Why publishing on Amazon is easier than ever—and what most authors get wrong
  • How professional book publicity actually works behind the scenes
  • Why book titles and subtitles matter more than most authors realize
  • The biggest mistakes authors make when marketing their own books
  • How radio, TV, podcasts, and print media fit into a smart publicity strategy
  • Guerrilla and “stealth” book marketing techniques that actually work
  • The role of social media, memes, press releases, and Amazon ads in book sales
  • Why most authors aren’t ready for national media—and how to get there
  • How AI is changing publishing, publicity, and content creation
  • What authors should look for when hiring a book publicist

Scott also discusses his own journey into book marketing, his experience working with high-profile authors, and why every book has an audience—it’s just a matter of finding it. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a self-published author, or someone preparing to launch your next book, this episode offers practical guidance, honest industry insight, and actionable strategies to help your book stand out in a competitive market.
🌐 Learn more about Scott Lorenz and West Wind Book Marketing:
WestWindBookMarketing.com
🎙️ Listen now and discover how successful authors turn books into visibility, credibility, and lasting impact.

Host Chris Cordani

Host Chris Cordani

Chris Cordani, host of Book Spectrum, used to love reading the backs and sides of cereal boxes, which led to him soon hearing about this place called the Library. After asking, “The library? What’s going on down there?” he decided to check it out. Years later, he created this podcast.

Through his career, Chris has created, hosted and produced several genres of talk and entertainment radio programs, creating and growing several throughout his career. Among his work, Chris also hosts the internationally-syndicated Revenge of the 80s Radio show, produces two shows airing in the NY-Metro market and worked in several capacities for stations of various formats throughout New York, including longtime talk station WOR. Through his work, Cordani creates content for radio shows and podcasts, books and interviews top newsmakers, leaders and celebrities from varied fields including entertainment, business, current events, politics, sports and history.



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