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  Italy’s Most Powerful Mafias:...

  Charles River Editors

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  The word “mafia,” Sicilian in origin, is synonymous with Italy, but Italy is home to several different mafias, with three being particularly notorious. While the Cosa Nostra of western Sicily is the most infamous, other powerful groups include the ferocious ‘Ndrangheta of Calabria and the Camorra, the third-largest mafia, which is active in Naples and the Campania region. A “mafia” is loosely defined as a criminal organization that is interested in social, economic and political power, combining elements of a traditional secret society with those of a business, but further levels of nuance are necessary in order to understand these groups. In a general sense, this is because each mafia creates a myth about the development of the organization, which becomes like an unquestionable truth. In essence, part of what makes its members so completely loyal to it is also what makes outsiders so utterly afraid of it. 
  While all three mafias have initiation rituals dating to the 19th century, the oldest of the three belongs to the Camorra. The rituals date back to 1850, as the Camorra was taking shape in the prisons of southern Italy. In this simple but profound ritual, the new member was told to take an oath over crossed knives and then made to have a dagger fight with another man (either another possible initiate or a current member). However, the blades would be wrapped leaving just the point exposed, so that the only objective would be to draw a faint trace of blood, after which the fight would end. This ritual ceased in 1912, around the time that the Neapolitan Honored Society dissolved itself, and as it reconstituted itself in various formations over the course of the century, it never again returned to those more antiquated rituals. Instead, the group began to exist more as a loose network of criminals, all working for their own enrichment.

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  School of Spank - BDSM Lite

  Randy Manners

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  Sometimes, an unruly young man needs to be taken over the knee. 
    
  Strong-willed jock Brad has flunked again, and Professor Carter is no longer interested in his excuses. 
    
  It’s time for disciplinary action to be taken. 
    
  But what Brad needs isn’t tutoring sessions and extra assignments. No, what Brad needs is a good, hard spanking — followed up with some long, hard positive reinforcement. 
    
  Will Brad continue his streak of good behavior now, or will Professor Carter — maybe with the help of a hot hunk from the wrestling team — have to pin Brad down and give him a double-up lesson?

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  The Enchiridion - A Modern Guide...

  Epictetus

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  The Enchiridion, or "The Manual" by the ancient philosopher Epictetus, has served as a secret weapon for history's most courageous and independent souls. This modern adaptation reimagines the core wisdom of Epictetus for today’s generation, removing dry, archaic language while maintaining its iron-clad logic. 
  In an era of constant noise and digital servitude, we are falsely taught that happiness depends on external factors like wealth, status, and social validation. This modern survival guide teaches the art of detachment and the foundation of inner freedom by focusing strictly on what is within our power—our intentions, decisions, and character. Aligned with a deep understanding of the Divine Will and the Creator's Decree, this book bridges ancient Stoic discipline with modern spiritual success. Discover how to walk through the world without enemies, shield your spirit from harm, and achieve a state of unyielding peace. 

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  How To Read People Like A Book:...

  Sebastian Clark

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  Decode body language, pick up on the subtlest of gestures, and effortlessly connect with people even without saying a word! 
  Do you want to know what other people are thinking? 
  We all do, but it's not always easy to figure out. You might not always be sure if they're telling the truth, or if they're just trying to manipulate you. 
  You can’t help but feel like you're missing out on a lot of important information. Most people are terrible at reading body language and understanding what other people are thinking. 
  How to Read People Like a Book will teach you everything you need to know about analyzing and decoding body language, intentions, thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and more. 
  You'll learn the techniques used by top negotiators, detectives, and therapists to get inside people's heads and understand exactly what they're thinking. 
  Discover:How to read people's facial expressions, gestures, and postureSubtle techniques for uncovering hidden intentionsStrategies for decoding body language signals in different contexts — from job interviews to courtship situations.Tips on deciphering non-verbal communication so you can respond accordinglyHow to interpret vocal cuesWhen to trust your gutDifferent communication styles and the type of people that use them 
  You'll be able to spot body language cues that indicate deception, establish trust and rapport in any situation, identify hidden emotions, read the underlying intentions behind people's words, and navigate difficult conversations with ease.Scroll up, get the audiobook, and start listening!

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  Puerto Rico - What Everyone...

  Jorge Duany

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  Acquired by the United States from Spain in 1898, Puerto Rico has a peculiar status among Latin American and Caribbean countries. Though they are US citizens, Puerto Ricans do not have their own voting representatives in Congress and cannot vote in presidential elections (although they are able to participate in the primaries). In recent years, Puerto Rico's colossal public debt sparked an economic crisis that catapulted it onto the national stage and intensified the exodus to the US, bringing to the fore many of the unresolved remnants of its colonial history. 
   
   
   
  Beginning with a historical overview of Puerto Rico, Duany covers the Spanish colonial period (1493-1898) and the first five decades of the US colonial regime. He then delves into the demographic, economic, political, and cultural features of contemporary Puerto Rico. New material examines the multiple issues affecting Puerto Rico in the last decade, including a prolonged recession, the devastating impact of two hurricanes, and the largest migrant wave ever recorded from Puerto Rico. 
   
   
   
  While a popular tourist destination, few beyond Puerto Rico's shores are familiar with its complex history and diverse culture. Duany takes on the task of educating readers on the most important facets of the unique, troubled, but much beloved isla del encanto.

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  Standing Tall - Leadership...

  Robert F. Foley

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  The Medal of Honor recipient chronicles his life and military career in this memoir while also sharing his thoughts on leadership. Robert Foley had only been in Vietnam for six months when he was promoted to captain and given command of a rifle company. In November 1966, Foley led his men on a mission to rescue another company that had been pinned down by Viet Cong forces. His leadership that day inspired his men and led to a successful operation—and the Medal of Honor. His actions in Vietnam were only a small portion of a long and varied career of service in the U.S. Army, but Foley did not always seem marked for success. Coming from a blue-collar suburb of Boston, his years in West Point were marked by poor grades, injuries, and sickness. With a determination to lead by example and inspire trust among others, Foley served across the globe and rose through the ranks. He even returned to West Point as Commandant of Cadets, later retiring as a 3-star general and commander of Fifth Army.Praise for Standing Tall Finalist, 2022 Army Historical Foundation Distinguished Writing Awards “What an amazing opportunity! Standing Tall allows us to learn about leadership from a true American hero.” ―Mike Krzyzewski, former Head Coach, Duke University and USA Olympic Gold Medal basketball teams

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