#Strategic Review

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Best of the Dragon 01, 1985

[telomirage]

before 🤎🖤 and after 🪲🌱🌿🥬💚

[oldschoolfrp]

Another very early OD&D purple worm and its dragon friend, from The Strategic Review Vol 1, No 2, Tactical Studies Rules, summer 1975

[duskcowboy]

Halfway through The Hunger Games audiobooks and can I just say, I am Josh Hutcherson’s #1 fan, but man they really did Peeta dirty in the movie😅😅

[ahb-writes]

Book Review: 'Iron Widow'

Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

action

Asian sci-fi

gender studies

giant robot

rebellion

revenge

sci-fi

social commentary

superhero

My Rating: 4 of 5 stars

The unearned demands of the noble class breed a very particular, very familiar stench of greed. Surviving preferential dicta for race, ethnicity, and gender, one encounters a sociopolitical infrastructure whose foundational phobias sting the eyes into blinking. The bigotry, the intolerance, and the chauvinism are ubiquitous, and as such, sweeping efforts of immense chaos are necessary to shake the firmament. IRON WIDOW affirms what is occasionally, truthfully, philosophized: Abrupt revolution is necessary when gradual progress is rendered functionally impossible.

Such are the woeful accuracies framing the corrupt polity of the land of Huaxia, its many provinces, and the army under whose auspices each citizen pays tribute. Forced conscription, unyielding tax burdens, a world under siege from biomechanical alien entities. The glaringly forthright and uncompromisingly distorted culture of violence, scarcity, and sexism of Huaxia gives readers a clear window into the novel's trajectory: Everything is terrible, and one young woman, Wu Zetian, pledges to fight for a new paradigm until it kills her.

Lady Wu, by fashionable accounts, is a mad woman. But readers know better. Readers know she enlists to serve as a concubine, a position of fealty and support during military operations, only to exact revenge upon a pompous fool. Readers know she acquiesces to train with a convicted murderer, only to further her ambitions to end the war on her own terms. Readers know she signs a contract with a sleezy media magnate, with her own blood, only because the manufactured splendor of public adoration is the only mirror that outshines the stratified grandeur of the national army. Many people view Wu Zetian as a bit mad, sure, but everyone in her life has failed her, abused her, or misused her. Zetian cannot unmake the trauma others have wrought, but she can definitely become a nightmare all her own, and terrorize in kind those who deserve it.

IRON WIDOW offers contemporary readers the type of noisy, foul-mouthed, vengeance-seeking young female lead character so many fantasy fiction titles lack. The type of hard-luck woman so many books mimic in earnest but ultimately blink when the blade is swung, when the trigger is pulled, or in the case of IRON WIDOW, when the 40m tall mech transforms and starts ripping people's limbs off. Zetian never knew a good person in her whole life, so why would she ever desire to become one herself?

The novel's setting is a futuristic Asian fantasy realm complete with giant robots, ravaging otherworldly beasts, hover-vehicles, holographic displays, fantastical god-beings, powerful physical manifestations of qì, and sprawling military-industrial complexes. The author clearly loves the mash-up, as readers will find multiple references to ancient Chinese literature and lore alongside sci-fi exploits like transforming mecha that typify the zodiac. The kitsch may not be worth admiring, if the reader isn't in tune with either, but it's plenty enough for those whose interests rightfully intersect.

The best thing about this book is how thoroughly committed the author, and by extension, the protagonist is to seeing this story through to the end. Zetian, for example, isn't bitter and pessimistic about death because she has no options, she's merely giving as much violence as she takes ("Too bad. I am exactly the kind of ice-blooded, rotten-hearted girl he fears I am. And I am fine with that. May he stay unsettled," page 114). Some characters match Zetian's grit; others push back. Another female mech pilot, Dugu Qieluo, for example, is aggressively unlikable. Lady Dugu doesn't hesitate to throw a punch (at a supposed ally) and defends her personhood with vigor ("Never appease. No one's ever been respected for appeasing. The only thing you did was let them know there are no consequences to treating you like trash," page 295).

Fighting massive bug creatures in the wilds beyond the Great Wall occupy the official duties of these and other characters. But piloting giant robots to save humanity feels comically miniscule in importance when juxtaposed with the gravity of avoiding sexual assault, navigating corrupt officials, sniffing out traitors, and spitting in the eye of any supposed fate.

For example, Zetian allies with a wealthy young man, Yizhi, a possible paramour from her days as an impoverished girl in the mountains. Yizhi is a sympathetic man with a gift for big words. His kindness and his wealth seem limitless. But, "How far does the darkness in him go?" (page 183), she asks, knowing full well the corruption that girds her country doubtlessly lines the young man's pockets as well. A soft rich boy doesn't survive as one of dozens of sons what for being only a soft rich boy. He may be an animal, but evidently, Yizhi hides his teeth. A durable contrast to Li Shimin, a 19-year-old man convicted of patricide. Shimin is Zetian's co-pilot, and fittingly, the man is all rough edges, beset with the tired eyes and ruined liver of an alcoholic. Shimin doesn't hide his teeth, and his protective alliance with Zetian, a pledge to bark, tear, and destroy anything in their path, wavers on the border between keenly obligatory and affectionately benevolent. It's a love triangle appropriate for a novel layered with dead bodies.

IRON WIDOW is a thrill. It's difficult to find a fantasy book with female lead characters whose uncompromising disregard for state discrimination and fervent rebuke of institutionalized sexual violence manifest so clearly and cleanly. The first half of the book doesn't waver. Vengeance is on the table from the very first chapter. The action is pointed and the character dynamics are definitive. The violence only recedes when, in the second half of the novel, the story shifts into a rather strategic atmosphere, as Zetian maneuvers her successes and failures into greater grabs for political power.

Nevertheless, the book commits to characters-with-issues and unbuckles their ambitions with glee. It's a riotous adventure whose characters always know the stakes, and whose characters are just smart enough to know the pain of giving in to the greed of others is often greater than the suffering required survive on one's own terms. Buttressing these themes, compelling B-stories fill in the gaps, involving filial piety, bisexuality, the myth of popular karma, the quest to rid the world of entitled pricks, and the sad, disquieting inevitability of death ("Dread hollows through me. We spend so much effort living these lives, yet every trace of their substance and meaning can be erased so quickly. So easily," page 338).

❯ ❯ Book Reviews || ahb writes on Good Reads

[potionwitchmaya-15]

darkest dungeon 2 makes me so angry in almost every run without fail and it's my favorite game ive played this year im literally obsessed with this game

[arjun7643]

Jatan Shah Skill Nation | AI in Finance and Operations

For accurate forecasting and fraud detection, finance teams utilise AI solutions and automated bookkeeping applications such as QuickBooks and Xero to perform accounting functions and free up financial professionals to focus on strategic planning in finance.

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The head of Britain’s armed forces, Admiral Tony Radakin, has warned that the world is entering a "third nuclear age," characterized by complex challenges and weakened safeguards. In this report, we explore his concerns about threats from Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, as well as the UK’s strategic response to these global dangers.

[treasurypreserve]

Strategic Insurance Quoting- An Essential Guide

In the present quick-moving world, having the right protection inclusion is fundamental for safeguarding your resources and guaranteeing genuine serenity. Nonetheless, the method involved with getting protection statements can frequently feel overpowering. That is where vital protection citing becomes an integral factor. This article will investigate what STRATEGIC INSURANCE QUOTING is, the reason it is important, and the way that you can use it to settle on informed choices.

uNDERSTANDING STRATEGIC INSURANCE QUOTING

Vital protection citation alludes to the deliberate way of dealing with getting and assessing protection quotes custom-made to your particular requirements. Instead of basically assembling different statements for correlation, vital citing includes investigating your remarkable conditions, inclusion prerequisites, and spending plan requirements to track down the smartest strategy.

The Significance of Strategic insurance quoting

Custom-made Inclusion: Everybody’s protection needs are unique. Vital citing permits you to zero in on strategies that fit your particular circumstance, whether it’s home, auto, or business protection.

Cost Effectiveness: By understanding your inclusion needs forthright, you can keep away from pointless expenses related with over-safeguarding or picking some unacceptable arrangement.

Efficient: An essential methodology smoothes out the citing system, saving you time over the long haul.

Informed Choices: With a reasonable comprehension of what you really want, you can settle on very much educated decisions that give the best security without burning through every last cent.

The Essential Protection strategic insurance quoting

Stage 1: Survey Your Requirements

Before you even start to accumulate statements, it’s vital to survey your protection needs. Pose yourself with the accompanying inquiries:

Which resources do I have to secure?

What are the potential dangers I face?

What is my spending plan for insurance installments?

Finding an opportunity to assess these variables will give a strong groundwork to your citing methodology.

Stage 2: Exploration Suppliers

When you have an unmistakable image of your requirements, the subsequent stage is to investigate protection suppliers. Search for organizations that have solid monetary evaluations, positive client surveys, and standing for great client care. Consider using on-the-web correlation devices to measure the contributions of different backup plans rapidly.

Stage 3: Assemble Statements

Presently comes the part that the vast majority consider with regard to protection: gathering statements. While mentioning statements, make a point to give exact and itemized data to guarantee that the statements are similar. This incorporates:

Inclusion types (responsibility, extensive, impact, and so forth.)

Inclusion limits

Deductibles

Stage 4: Investigate the Statements

In the wake of getting a few statements, now is the right time to decisively dissect them. Try not to simply zero in on the superior expenses; take a gander at the inclusion subtleties, prohibitions, and strategy limits. This is what to consider:

Inclusion Correlation: Guarantee that every arrangement covers similar dangers and has comparative cutoff points.

Rejections: Know about what isn’t covered by every arrangement. A few strategies might reject specific dangers that are urgent for your requirements.

Client assistance: Check how every backup plan handles cases and client support. A low superior isn’t worth the effort in the event that the safety net provider is difficult to work with when you really want assistance.

Stage 5: Go with Your Choice

After exhaustive examination, now is the right time to settle on your choice. Pick the approach that offers the best benefit — in addition to the least expense. Consider the general security, client care notoriety, and any extra advantages presented by the guarantor.

Advantages of Utilizing Vital Protection Citing

Better Gamble The executives

By understanding your particular dangers and how various strategies address them, you can go with better choices that lead to viable gamble the executives. This essential methodology can assist with relieving expected monetary misfortunes in case of a startling occurrence.

Expanded Familiarity with Choices

Participating in vital citing extends your insight into the protection market. You’ll turn out to be more acquainted with various sorts of inclusion, supports, and extra choices that can upgrade your approach.

Customization

Key insurance citing permits you to modify your inclusion as indicated by your extraordinary necessities, prompting contracts that are genuinely lined up with your life circumstances.

Normal Traps to Stay Away from Disregarding Strategy Subtleties: Zeroing in exclusively on cost can prompt neglecting basic arrangement subtleties that might affect your inclusion. Not Exploring Every Year: Your protection needs can change over the long run. Regularly practice it to audit your strategies yearly to guarantee they actually meet your prerequisites. Neglecting to Seek clarification on some pressing issues: Make sure to out to insurance specialists or intermediaries with inquiries regarding contracts. An educated specialist can give experiences that may not be promptly clear. Utilizing Innovation in Essential Protection Citing In the computerized age, innovation can altogether improve your vital citing experience. Here are a few devices and stages that can support the interaction: Online Examination Devices Sites like Insure.com and Policygenius permit you to include your data and get numerous statements from various backup plans. This can save time and give a more extensive perspective on your choices. Protection Applications Numerous insurance agencies offer versatile applications that can assist you with dealing with your strategies, document claims, and even get statements rapidly. Check if your supplier has an application that can smooth out your experience. Artificial intelligence and Chatbots Some insurance agencies are utilizing man-made brainpower and chatbots to respond to questions and give statements in a split second. These instruments can improve your exploration cycle and give ongoing help.

CONCLUSION

Key protection citing isn’t just about getting the least expensive rate; about pursuing informed choices that line up with your requirements and dangers. By following an organized interaction, surveying your requirements, and utilizing innovation, you can find the right protection inclusion that safeguards your resources and offers inner serenity.

Carving out the opportunity to take part in key citing can set aside your cash and dissatisfaction over the long haul, guaranteeing you have the right inclusion when you want it most. Whether you’re a property holder, an entrepreneur, or only searching for individual inclusion, key protection citing is your key to more brilliant protection decisions.

Keep in mind, that the right protection is an interest in your future, so find an opportunity to hit the nail on the head!

[mehmetyildizmelbourne-blog]

Review of “Red and Yellow Strategies”

 Flip Your Strategic Thinking and Overcome Short-termism” Dear Readers, Reading and writing are lifelong companions for me — they fuel each other. I read to write, and I write to read even more. Together, they help me connect meaningfully with others, bringing both motivation and joy to my life. In this piece, I’d like to introduce you to a book that I believe will be worth your time. Written…

[readerviews]

"A Pyrrhic Victory" by Ian Crouch

Polished and Erudite #books #bookreview #reading #readerviews

A Pyrrhic Victory Ian CrouchStrategic Book Publishing and Rights Co. (2022)ISBN:  978-1682355144Reviewed by Mary O’Brien for Reader Views (10/2024) Ian Crouch’s “A Pyrrhic Victory: Volume III – Fate” is the final installment of a gripping historical fiction trilogy that brings to life the tumultuous events of the 4th century BCE. Crouch masterfully weaves the fates of kings, generals, and…

[onlinereputationmanageofficial]

ONLINE REPUTATION MANAGE: WHAT INFLUENCES YOUR POLITICAL REPUTATION?

Online Reputation Manage — Small mistakes done by high-profile people will have huge consequences, and it’s even true in the case of a politician. Politicians are always followed by thousands of eyes and caught in a glimpse of wherever they go and whatever they do. They live in a fishbowl, constantly being photographed, interviewed, and interrupted by their electorate. They should always be aware of their footsteps and agile in their response in order to prevent their reputation management from the consequences of small mistakes, mentioned the very first. Understanding online reputation management is crucial in this regard.

Though you are very careful about your own doings, sometimes it isn’t enough. You are also responsible for the doings of others, maybe your competitor, opponent; against you. Instead of focusing on their own merits, political candidates often take to destroying the political reputation of their competition in an effort to win over the public. Over ages, this has been the least awful approach to the political race, but it serves as a good reminder to keep an eye on what you’re doing online.

Character assassination, smear campaigns accounts in dirty political practices to attack your reputation management to win the public over you, will happen commonly. Opponents will try everything from fake reviews and news articles to sensationalized blog posts and social media profiles in order to make you look bad in the eyes of the public. With the increasing popularity of social media, these attacks have gotten less blatant and more effective. Unfortunately, you can’t always keep clear of underhanded competition and walk away from those effects. But you can minimize the damage, however.

How can you keep yourself from being the victim of such an attack?

First, you have to understand the elements that influence your online reputation and then get ready to respond to the positive influence by uplifting their effects and negative influences by eliminating their traces.

Some elements that really matter in influencing your online reputation management:

Project yourself with your own content

Project your own image by yourself rather than be projected bad in the hands of your competitors. In today’s world people mostly seek Google for any information they need. If they want to learn about you, obviously they step out to Google for your information. So by defining who you are and what you stand for by creating your own content will probably impress them at first sight. By this, you are promoting your deeds and helping the public to find lots of information about your campaign, as well as evidence of your good character and reasons why you are the best candidate for the office.

Prevent deep digging

The researcher can dig deeper to any level to gain whole information about you. The deeper they dig, the more they gain. In politics, the information that can be unearthed. The permanence and the viral nature of the internet make it easy for them to even dig the content that is decades old. So never leave any traces of your negative activities that can be dug and unearthed easily. Seek out or neutralize any negative content that harms your political reputation.

Prioritize the good ones

Never let your bad content win over your good ones. Along with seeking out and neutralizing negative content, pushing your positive content to appear first is important. Because they are always responsible for making the best first impression as people search for you.

Confirmation Bias

People have a tendency to find, favor, and remember information that already confirms their existing beliefs on something or someone. If the information proves their belief to be right, then they are completely proud of it and that is what they expect too. But when something fishy appears against their perception they try to forget or deny it firstly, but gradually their brain tends to accept the reality and change their mindset. This confirmation bias of the people is valued more in politics, where people shower their complete support to one, drastically jump to another party. So be kind to their perception and never let anything that breaks their belief for you.

Social media

A social media stand has the backbone to spread any content and make it viral. People seek more information through social media than anything else. Having the best social media profile is at most advantage to build or improve your online reputation. Social media enables an individual to interact with their real stories with you and serves as a platform for a discussion, different from mainstream media. They connect you directly to the public where you can portray you the way you want to be. To maintain an effective online reputation management strategy, it’s crucial to engage positively and proactively on social media platforms.

[fouldinosaurzombie]

The Strategic Advantage of Buying Facebook Reviews

Buy Facebook Reviews

In the digital age, online reviews play a crucial role in shaping the reputation and credibility of businesses. Positive reviews on platforms like Facebook can significantly influence potential customers' purchasing decisions and contribute to a company's success. However, obtaining authentic reviews can be challenging, leading some businesses to explore the option of buying Facebook reviews. This article delves into the benefits of purchasing Facebook reviews, considerations to keep in mind, and where to find reputable sellers.

Benefits of Purchasing Facebook Reviews

Build Trust and Credibility

Positive reviews on Facebook help build trust and credibility among potential customers. Buying Facebook reviews allows businesses to quickly establish a positive online reputation, making them more appealing to prospective clients.

Increase Visibility and Engagement

Having a high number of positive reviews can improve a business's visibility on Facebook and increase user engagement. When potential customers see positive feedback, they are more likely to engage with the business's page, leading to higher visibility and organic reach.

Competitive Edge

In today's competitive market, standing out from the crowd is essential. Purchasing Facebook reviews gives businesses a competitive edge by showcasing their excellent reputation and customer satisfaction compared to competitors.

Factors to Consider When Buying Facebook Reviews

Authenticity

Authenticity is paramount when purchasing Facebook reviews. Ensure that the reviews come from real users and reflect genuine experiences with your business. Fake or misleading reviews can harm your reputation and credibility in the long run.

Relevance and Diversity

Look for reviews that are relevant to your business and cover various aspects, such as product quality, customer service, and overall experience. A diverse range of reviews adds credibility and authenticity to your business's online presence.

Compliance with Facebook Guidelines

Ensure that the purchased reviews comply with Facebook's guidelines and policies. Violating Facebook's rules regarding reviews can result in penalties, such as account suspension or removal of reviews, which can negatively impact your business.

Where to Buy Facebook Reviews

Online Marketplaces

Online marketplaces such as Fiverr, SEOClerks, and Upwork often have sellers offering Facebook review services. However, exercise caution and thoroughly vet sellers to ensure the authenticity and quality of reviews.

Social Media Marketing Agencies

Many social media marketing agencies offer services to help businesses improve their online reputation, including purchasing Facebook reviews. Research reputable agencies with a track record of delivering high-quality results.

Specialized Review Providers

Some companies specialize in providing authentic and verified reviews for businesses on various platforms, including Facebook. Consider partnering with these providers to ensure genuine reviews that comply with Facebook's guidelines.

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BOOK SUMMARY: "Strategic Marketing Management" by Wilson and Gilligan

"Strategic Marketing Management" by Wilson and Gilligan is a comprehensive guide that delves into the principles and practices of strategic marketing. The book emphasizes the strategic aspect of marketing...

“Strategic Marketing Management” by Wilson and Gilligan is a comprehensive guide that delves into the principles and practices of strategic marketing. The book emphasizes the strategic aspect of marketing, emphasizing the importance of aligning marketing activities with overall business objectives. Below is a condensed summary of key concepts covered in the book: 1. Strategic Marketing…

[misskamelie]

Chanting the next small task I should be doing in my head so I don't get sidetracked by my phone or the vast possibilities that my computer browser offers