Friday, December 6, 2024

An Open Letter from Robert and William Stanek: Embracing Stories and Insights This Holiday Season

Dear Friends, Readers, and Supporters,

As the twinkling lights of Christmas and the promise of a New Year approach, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey that has brought me to this moment. For many of you, I am known as Robert Stanek, the storyteller behind the “Timeless Voices” series, and as William Stanek, the thought leader at the intersection of science, technology, and business. Today, I want to share a bit about my journey, the challenges I’ve faced, and the exciting works that await you this holiday season.

The Lost Decade: A Time of Challenge and Creation

The past decade has been a period of profound transformation for me, both personally and professionally. Due to health issues, I was unable to publish much under either of my names, William Stanek or Robert Stanek. Many of my loyal readers know that alongside my writing, I dedicated nearly 20 years to working with Microsoft, producing close to one million words annually. Those “little pocket consultants” may have seemed compact, but they were densely packed with insights and strategies. The “Inside Out,” and “Administrator’s Reference” books, each weighing in at around 500,000 words, were a testament to that relentless effort.

While it might seem like the decade was lost to writing, the truth is more nuanced. Although many manuscripts found themselves entangled in the lengthy editorial process—a process often as long as or longer than the writing itself—my passion for storytelling never waned. Countless stories remain in various stages of development, waiting for their moment to shine. Today, I am thrilled to unveil the culmination of these efforts: the “Timeless Voices” series—a collection of historical fiction novels that bridge the gap between my analytical past and my creative present.

Introducing the “Timeless Voices” Series

The “Timeless Voices” series invites you to journey through pivotal moments in history, each novel offering a unique window into the lives of individuals striving for love, justice, and self-discovery. Here’s a glimpse into the stories that await you:

Journey Through the Ages

The Lights of Paris

Set against the revolutionary backdrop of 1870s Paris, follow Eloise, a passionate nurse, and her courageous friends as they navigate war, love, and the fight for a just society. Amidst barricades and hospital wards, their stories illuminate the profound costs of conflict and the enduring hope for a brighter future.


August Rains

Transport yourself to 1950s small-town America, where John Anderson, a dedicated teacher and principal, grapples with preserving cherished traditions at Jane’s School. Through moments of joy and heartbreak, John’s journey explores the deep bonds of community, the power of memory, and the quiet strength required to honor the past while embracing change.


Songbird in the Rain

Experience the vibrant and tumultuous 1970s Wisconsin, where Lena Carter dreams of a life defined by music while her love, Tommy, faces the uncertainty of the Vietnam War. As Lena pours her heart into songwriting, she must navigate the complexities of love, identity, and the relentless pursuit of her dreams amidst societal upheaval and personal sacrifice.


Almost California

Journey into the 1980s small-town Wisconsin, where Bob and his circle of friends grapple with life, loss, and the quest for self-discovery. Amidst the backdrop of vibrant 1980s music, Bob faces his own dark secrets while supporting his friends through their hidden struggles. As they navigate the challenges of senior year, friendship, love, and the desire to escape their pasts intertwine, leading them to confront what it truly means to find oneself and build a future worth holding on to.


Introducing the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series

In addition to my foray into historical fiction, my commitment to leadership and personal development continues through the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series, authored as William R. Stanek. “Building Resilience Foundations: A 2-Week Action Plan for Leadership Success” is the first book in this transformative series, designed to empower leaders with the tools and mindset needed to thrive under pressure. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this guide offers actionable strategies to develop emotional resilience, enhance decision-making, and foster a positive work culture.


Why Add These Books to Your Holiday and New Year Reading List?

1. Diverse and Enriching Content

The “Timeless Voices” series offers immersive historical narratives that transport you to different eras, while the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series provides practical insights for personal and professional growth. Together, they cater to both your desire for captivating stories and your ambition for leadership excellence.

2. Perfect Holiday Gifts

Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for a history enthusiast or a budding leader, these books make thoughtful and impactful presents that will be cherished long after the holidays.

3. Reflect and Inspire

The themes of resilience, love, and self-discovery resonate deeply during the holiday season, a time for reflection and new beginnings. These books provide both inspiration and entertainment, making them ideal companions for your festive moments.

4. Support the Journey

By adding these books to your collection, you’re supporting a journey that intertwines creative storytelling with actionable leadership strategies, embodying the essence of perseverance and passion.

A Heartfelt Invitation

This Christmas and New Year, I invite you to explore both the “Timeless Voices” series and the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series. Let these books become a cherished part of your holiday tradition, offering both escape and reflection as you celebrate the season and look forward to the year ahead.

“Timeless Voices”—where every era speaks its own story, and every story echoes through time.

“Building Resilience Foundations”—unlock the power of resilience for leadership success.


Join Us on This Journey

Perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale, Helen Simonson’s The Summer Before the War, and Mitch Albom’s The Five People You Meet in Heaven, the “Timeless Voices” series invites you to embark on a journey through history’s most transformative moments. Similarly, “Building Resilience Foundations” is ideal for those seeking to enhance their leadership skills and build a resilient mindset.

Thank You for Your Support

Your support has been the cornerstone of my journey. As both Robert and William Stanek, I am excited to share these stories and insights that have been years in the making, born from both my challenges and my unyielding passion for storytelling and leadership excellence. Let “Timeless Voices” and the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series become treasured parts of your holiday reading, offering both escape and reflection as you celebrate the season and embrace the year ahead.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season filled with love, warmth, and unforgettable stories.

Warm regards,

Robert and William Stanek

Explore the “Timeless Voices” Series | Discover the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series