What do you think?
The Black Book of Power
Wake up to your factory settings that made you prey, execute the parasite of self-sabotage that's been feeding on your potential , and master the arts of influence that control human behavior. Transcend into a conscious sovereign with a new identity that makes others' manipulation attempts bounce off like wind against a marble statue. This is the metamorphosis from walking dead to awakened sovereign who writes the code others live by.
650 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2025
About the author
Stan Taylor
2 books99 followersAuthor of The Black Book of Power. For twenty-three years, I created campaigns you never knew existed. I helped elect presidents in Latin America. I designed the psychological operations that made you buy products you didn't need, support wars you shouldn't have backed, and hate people you'd never met. My fingerprints are on every major manipulation of public opinion since 1998, though you'll find no record of my work.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
April 11, 2026
I’ve only read the sample chapter (Chapter 1 – The Walking Dead) and the author’s sales material, so I can’t speak to the full book. What I read was both compelling and unsettling.
The book taps into real dynamics around influence and conditioning, which is why it lands so strongly. It also reduces complex psychological and social realities into a level of certainty that feels calming at the cost of human nuance and complexity.
To deliver his message, the author leverages the same psychological mechanisms he claims to expose. He frames the reader as already “programmed,” then positions the material as the way out. This creates a closed loop where skepticism, hesitation, or independent thought are recast as part of the problem.
The author’s refund policy reinforces this concern. The criteria for a refund are not clearly defined, and the language frames doubt or dissatisfaction as “self-sabotage,” which introduces its own form of psychological pressure. I anticipate, without substantiation, that a refund request would be met with the narrative that you are “giving up,” or as proof that you didn’t truly do “the work.” In that sense, “the work” risks becoming synonymous with compliance instead of discerning engagement.
This book is engineered to speak to the part of us that wants certainty and control. The part that wants a clear answer from someone who will define what a “real” experience looks and feels like. The material raises as many questions about influence as it answers. Instead of the definitive answer, this is one perspective among many to engage with in your own way.
The book taps into real dynamics around influence and conditioning, which is why it lands so strongly. It also reduces complex psychological and social realities into a level of certainty that feels calming at the cost of human nuance and complexity.
To deliver his message, the author leverages the same psychological mechanisms he claims to expose. He frames the reader as already “programmed,” then positions the material as the way out. This creates a closed loop where skepticism, hesitation, or independent thought are recast as part of the problem.
The author’s refund policy reinforces this concern. The criteria for a refund are not clearly defined, and the language frames doubt or dissatisfaction as “self-sabotage,” which introduces its own form of psychological pressure. I anticipate, without substantiation, that a refund request would be met with the narrative that you are “giving up,” or as proof that you didn’t truly do “the work.” In that sense, “the work” risks becoming synonymous with compliance instead of discerning engagement.
This book is engineered to speak to the part of us that wants certainty and control. The part that wants a clear answer from someone who will define what a “real” experience looks and feels like. The material raises as many questions about influence as it answers. Instead of the definitive answer, this is one perspective among many to engage with in your own way.
January 12, 2026
I wrote this and then got kicked out of his facebook group 😆 I guess for "Not staying on target". I guess"on target" is to follow blindly and swallow your issues with the book instead of get support with where it leaves yoy stuck or talk about your reading process with it. Weird. And a bad look not to address it.
...
The one irreversible action was a small enough buy-in to be able to do in the intro without leadership example.
The 21 day protocol however... needs the author to lead by example. At least from my own POV. There is no proof, a before and after story, or journal entries from their own run-through of this gamut for the reader to trust enough to follow. At least at this point in the book, which is where I think it matters the most.
I hope this feedback is welcome and useful and am sorry if it hurts any feelings. It takes a lot of work to make something this big, book, audiobook, ebook, journal, posts, ads.... and I acknowledge that. You actually made something in this world and I want to show where it's not working for me and could work better in its iterations.
There is a large void of real world example at this point in the book and is likely why so many quit here instead of charge through into the exciting though painful challenge for transformation that we crave.
At this point it all sounds like "Trust me! Just trust me!" - "Why? ...prove it."
Not with theory. With proof. With photos. With personal before and after data. With real journal entries. With what you went through.
I currently don't trust you enough to follow such extensive instructions because I don't believe your system works if not even one real example of your own transformation is presented in confidence.
We don't follow where one has not led. We lead ourselves instead if you won't and will take risks on our own theories or trusted others instead of yours. Unless you do the work to present that you actually tested it first and present that data.
Beyond everything making sense in theory and backing up the theory with anything other than real personal example at this point in the book....it just makes the reader feel like a guinea pig instead of an inspired secondary follower of the protocol.
I'll keep reading for my own curiosity at this point and maybe the later parts of the book will change my mind and I will return, but this is currently a sticking point in the book that could do with some support. Revision/Addition right here would help so much. Small wins leading to medium wins leading to larger ones. And leading by example. Instead of jumping from one small win to giant challenge with no leadership. Like showing your kid it's not scary by doing the thing yourself in front of them first. Doing something like that inspires so much faith and follow through action.
Okay, thanks for listening to this feedback if you do. I'm still enjoying the book. Cheers :)
...
May not finish because of the gross aftertaste of the interaction now...
...
The one irreversible action was a small enough buy-in to be able to do in the intro without leadership example.
The 21 day protocol however... needs the author to lead by example. At least from my own POV. There is no proof, a before and after story, or journal entries from their own run-through of this gamut for the reader to trust enough to follow. At least at this point in the book, which is where I think it matters the most.
I hope this feedback is welcome and useful and am sorry if it hurts any feelings. It takes a lot of work to make something this big, book, audiobook, ebook, journal, posts, ads.... and I acknowledge that. You actually made something in this world and I want to show where it's not working for me and could work better in its iterations.
There is a large void of real world example at this point in the book and is likely why so many quit here instead of charge through into the exciting though painful challenge for transformation that we crave.
At this point it all sounds like "Trust me! Just trust me!" - "Why? ...prove it."
Not with theory. With proof. With photos. With personal before and after data. With real journal entries. With what you went through.
I currently don't trust you enough to follow such extensive instructions because I don't believe your system works if not even one real example of your own transformation is presented in confidence.
We don't follow where one has not led. We lead ourselves instead if you won't and will take risks on our own theories or trusted others instead of yours. Unless you do the work to present that you actually tested it first and present that data.
Beyond everything making sense in theory and backing up the theory with anything other than real personal example at this point in the book....it just makes the reader feel like a guinea pig instead of an inspired secondary follower of the protocol.
I'll keep reading for my own curiosity at this point and maybe the later parts of the book will change my mind and I will return, but this is currently a sticking point in the book that could do with some support. Revision/Addition right here would help so much. Small wins leading to medium wins leading to larger ones. And leading by example. Instead of jumping from one small win to giant challenge with no leadership. Like showing your kid it's not scary by doing the thing yourself in front of them first. Doing something like that inspires so much faith and follow through action.
Okay, thanks for listening to this feedback if you do. I'm still enjoying the book. Cheers :)
...
May not finish because of the gross aftertaste of the interaction now...
December 12, 2025
This book is not going to call you out on your shit. It’s going to open you up, explain exactly where that shit comes from, and hand you a path forward.
This isn’t a short read that will make you feel good about where you are in life. It’s goes for blood and dares you to change everything about yourself you hate, because you can. But you have to do the work for it to work. It does work.
This isn’t a scam. People who pay $10 for a self help book won’t treat it with the same importance as paying $100. The price is a gate, and a test: how willing are you to take this seriously? I had to save up for a bit, and it’s worth it.
Don’t bother if you’re genuinely happy with your life, body, mind, job, etc. But if you aren’t, this is the best investment you can make, because it forges your best self.
This isn’t a short read that will make you feel good about where you are in life. It’s goes for blood and dares you to change everything about yourself you hate, because you can. But you have to do the work for it to work. It does work.
This isn’t a scam. People who pay $10 for a self help book won’t treat it with the same importance as paying $100. The price is a gate, and a test: how willing are you to take this seriously? I had to save up for a bit, and it’s worth it.
Don’t bother if you’re genuinely happy with your life, body, mind, job, etc. But if you aren’t, this is the best investment you can make, because it forges your best self.
June 20, 2026
Admittedly, I nearly bought this book. The ad I saw triggered an old fear in me. I questioned whether I was truly liberated, truly sovereign.
For reference, I grew up in a cult, and ended up in another for a decade and half when I left home. Cults play on the insecurities of those who are looking for love and protection, but are also naive and don't know how to find it in themselves.
I read the sample chapter and I understand the dilemma he puts forth. Always being easily read by the manipulators when you enter a room because your demeanor screams "love me!" It's always been a struggle to find who my true self was without wanting other people to affirm me. This is the hook.
But there is a smell to this whole thing. $197?? Only exclusively on his website (because no other site would allow him to sell it for this much). A price that proves you're serious? LOL. Televangelists of the 80s are 'atta boy-ing from beyond the grave.
A return policy that sounds more like a threat... you dare to return my book, PROVE it didn't work. Of course, there is no guideline to clearly prove it. Apparently, "Stan" will have to believe you tried your best. Bet he doesn't.
The "Stan" story itself. A man of mystery with no identity, whose secret dealings were so dangerous he has to hide himself from the world. Pretty convenient. I was a top secret person waging political propaganda campaigns, but I can't tell you who I am; ya gotta believe me!
One of the most tell-tale signs for me, though, is a two-star comment I read from someone named Abby who shared that he kicked her out of the Facebook group when she was questioning his authority on a chapter she was reading because he wasn't offering any real life experiences for her to relate to. THIS - kicking someone out of a group for questioning - is CULT 101. As soon as I started questioning anything my last church cult deemed as God's truth, I was out the door. It's too dangerous to have people who think for themselves in a cult. That might spread to the other members and before they know it, the Cult leaders lose their following, and thus, their income.
I'm not religious anymore, but I will say this. Anything this holy, this freeing should be a gift of love, not some poorly written (yes, I didn't think the writing of the first chapter was all that...) book that costs $197 and if you question ANYTHING Stan says, well, it's just your parasite... get back in line with the program!
I would say run, but some of you may need to go through this to ultimately learn to smell a con on your own.
For what it's worth, put yourself first in everything. Love yourself. Choose what's best for you, regardless of what other's think, and you'll find the freedom you're looking for. Freedom from other people's opinions is true freedom and true self sovereignty. Boom. There you go.
For reference, I grew up in a cult, and ended up in another for a decade and half when I left home. Cults play on the insecurities of those who are looking for love and protection, but are also naive and don't know how to find it in themselves.
I read the sample chapter and I understand the dilemma he puts forth. Always being easily read by the manipulators when you enter a room because your demeanor screams "love me!" It's always been a struggle to find who my true self was without wanting other people to affirm me. This is the hook.
But there is a smell to this whole thing. $197?? Only exclusively on his website (because no other site would allow him to sell it for this much). A price that proves you're serious? LOL. Televangelists of the 80s are 'atta boy-ing from beyond the grave.
A return policy that sounds more like a threat... you dare to return my book, PROVE it didn't work. Of course, there is no guideline to clearly prove it. Apparently, "Stan" will have to believe you tried your best. Bet he doesn't.
The "Stan" story itself. A man of mystery with no identity, whose secret dealings were so dangerous he has to hide himself from the world. Pretty convenient. I was a top secret person waging political propaganda campaigns, but I can't tell you who I am; ya gotta believe me!
One of the most tell-tale signs for me, though, is a two-star comment I read from someone named Abby who shared that he kicked her out of the Facebook group when she was questioning his authority on a chapter she was reading because he wasn't offering any real life experiences for her to relate to. THIS - kicking someone out of a group for questioning - is CULT 101. As soon as I started questioning anything my last church cult deemed as God's truth, I was out the door. It's too dangerous to have people who think for themselves in a cult. That might spread to the other members and before they know it, the Cult leaders lose their following, and thus, their income.
I'm not religious anymore, but I will say this. Anything this holy, this freeing should be a gift of love, not some poorly written (yes, I didn't think the writing of the first chapter was all that...) book that costs $197 and if you question ANYTHING Stan says, well, it's just your parasite... get back in line with the program!
I would say run, but some of you may need to go through this to ultimately learn to smell a con on your own.
For what it's worth, put yourself first in everything. Love yourself. Choose what's best for you, regardless of what other's think, and you'll find the freedom you're looking for. Freedom from other people's opinions is true freedom and true self sovereignty. Boom. There you go.
December 12, 2025
This book is not for everyone, and Stan Taylor makes no attempt to pretend otherwise.
The Black Book of Power is helping me to deeply grasp what power actually is—and why understanding its dynamics matters in every relationship, negotiation, and conversation. Power is not something we can opt out of. Avoiding it is often one of the most irresponsible things we do, because we still wield it—just unconsciously.
Page by page, Taylor reveals how deeply power’s shadow side lives in our private thoughts and self-deceptions, and how easily we convince ourselves we are powerless—or superior—both of which evade responsibility.
This book made it far easier to engage in candid, grounded conversations about power, especially in a world where so many feel increasingly less powerful. For those willing to look directly at power rather than moralize it away, this is a clarifying and necessary read.
…And I’m still reading it… it’s a profound work in practice.
The Black Book of Power is helping me to deeply grasp what power actually is—and why understanding its dynamics matters in every relationship, negotiation, and conversation. Power is not something we can opt out of. Avoiding it is often one of the most irresponsible things we do, because we still wield it—just unconsciously.
Page by page, Taylor reveals how deeply power’s shadow side lives in our private thoughts and self-deceptions, and how easily we convince ourselves we are powerless—or superior—both of which evade responsibility.
This book made it far easier to engage in candid, grounded conversations about power, especially in a world where so many feel increasingly less powerful. For those willing to look directly at power rather than moralize it away, this is a clarifying and necessary read.
…And I’m still reading it… it’s a profound work in practice.
December 12, 2025
Skepticism is normal and protective. And, in this case, will leave you behind. Choose. If you are brave, this book is game changing.
February 5, 2026
I find the Black book of Power kind of disturbing. It hits hard, like I'm reading a book that has me wondering how can I be so predictable that this book can call me out in each chapter.
There are many areas and examples I read and think, yea I know someone like that, only to keep reading and discover it's me. Oh, sure, I can see many people in this book, but I also found out, I was just like all of them, being used for others gains.
The Black Book of Power will make you upset at times, and feel free others. Your emotions will be all over the place. It is a process. A hard lesson, but so worth it. so revealing.
I've put the book and audio on hold a few times, thinking no that is not me, only to discover it's the parasite holding me back. I go back and reread and listen a couple days later and find I can understand the process a little better. It takes a lot of effort and a desire to change.
I'm not going to be controlled by my parasite or anyone manipulating me any longer.
It's a hard lesson to realize how much I'm manipulated and how much I manipulate others. My entire outlook has been altered, I am no longer a tool to be used, I am becoming the person that can use the tools.
I learned I don't need to stay in a toxic relationship. I see the manipulation as it happens. I am learning to read others intensions and have a way to not be the victim again.
I am a marble statue. I am in control.
The Black Book of Power is exactly what I needed.
Be ready for a crazy ride and a life changing trip. You will see things as the really are, no more rose colored glasses. Take charge of your life, don't let others use you like a puppet.
Thank you Stan for writing this book. I needed it.
There are many areas and examples I read and think, yea I know someone like that, only to keep reading and discover it's me. Oh, sure, I can see many people in this book, but I also found out, I was just like all of them, being used for others gains.
The Black Book of Power will make you upset at times, and feel free others. Your emotions will be all over the place. It is a process. A hard lesson, but so worth it. so revealing.
I've put the book and audio on hold a few times, thinking no that is not me, only to discover it's the parasite holding me back. I go back and reread and listen a couple days later and find I can understand the process a little better. It takes a lot of effort and a desire to change.
I'm not going to be controlled by my parasite or anyone manipulating me any longer.
It's a hard lesson to realize how much I'm manipulated and how much I manipulate others. My entire outlook has been altered, I am no longer a tool to be used, I am becoming the person that can use the tools.
I learned I don't need to stay in a toxic relationship. I see the manipulation as it happens. I am learning to read others intensions and have a way to not be the victim again.
I am a marble statue. I am in control.
The Black Book of Power is exactly what I needed.
Be ready for a crazy ride and a life changing trip. You will see things as the really are, no more rose colored glasses. Take charge of your life, don't let others use you like a puppet.
Thank you Stan for writing this book. I needed it.
January 27, 2026
After 25+ years in corporate sales, I've developed a pretty sharp nose for what's real and what's theater. You learn, often the hard way, that deals don't close because of logic, org charts don't reflect actual authority, and "best practices" are usually just folklore passed down by people who survived the game, not mastered it. The Black Book of Power is one of the few books I've read that actually names that reality without flinching. The real value, though, is defensive. After decades of being manipulated by internal politics, buyers, and incentive structures, the book feels like counter-intelligence training for professionals who are tired of bleeding influence. It doesn't make you cynical; it makes you clear.
If you're early in your career, this book might feel dangerous. If you're 45+ and wondering why the rules stopped working, it feels like relief. Stan Taylor isn't handing out shortcuts—he's explaining the machinery.
If you're early in your career, this book might feel dangerous. If you're 45+ and wondering why the rules stopped working, it feels like relief. Stan Taylor isn't handing out shortcuts—he's explaining the machinery.
March 17, 2026
Notebook LM wrote a Medicare book that regurgitates others ideas in a non meaningful way and uses creepy AI metaphors.
January 29, 2026
My whole life, I've always questioned the rituals and behaviours of those around me. The popularity of seemingly stupid trends and topics. I always asked why I was supposed to do things a certain way. I saw patterns that others ignored, always questioned, instead of mindlessly obeying. I was constantly bullied and punished for not conforming. I thought I was broken. Turns out, I was autistic. Authority figures didn't like me, because I was naturally resistant to their programming. I never could quite figure out how seemingly stupid and horrible people managed to get what they wanted, while I always got shortchanged. Why was I being chewed up and discarded by the machinery of society? Then this book found me. I was skeptical at first, just like you. Everyone is selling salvation, an easy and simple system to change your life. This book isn't easy. It contains the hardest work you will ever do. What emerges on the other side of it? Find out. Or don't. Become indigestible by the puppet masters pulling your strings, or be strangled by those strings. I, for one, refuse to let this world forget me.
Read
April 10, 2026I was a growth junkie addicted to living on the threshold of progress never truly crossing over. Seminars, retreats, video programs, books, expensive coaches. All of which helped some but never truly transformed. More like more and more advanced negotiation with my past. But the conversation with the past never ends. Like most books there's an education component. But the real juice is in the exercises that literally change your brain chemistry. Quickly. Not easily. Hardest and most painful thing I've ever done. And also the easiest at the same time.
February 2, 2026
Just started Chapter 3 and so far I've learned many things about how I've been conditioned by early relationships and society. Can't wait to get further into the book and see what else is in store. Also looking forward to the accompanying journal and continuing to learn more and do this deep personal work.
April 21, 2026
This is the most important book I have read in the last few years. Beautifully written, raw, powerful and honest!
No bullshit, just straight to the unvarnished truth. Everyone should read this irrespective of if they decide to act upon the lessons it contains. Reading Chapter 1 was hard but revelatory! This book might be the most important operating system manual we have for living in modern times.
No bullshit, just straight to the unvarnished truth. Everyone should read this irrespective of if they decide to act upon the lessons it contains. Reading Chapter 1 was hard but revelatory! This book might be the most important operating system manual we have for living in modern times.
April 10, 2026
In a few short weeks, this book uncovered what years of therapy, self-help books, and healing work did not. I am astounded at the change in myself. I no longer feel puzzled about what motivates me and feel like I know myself for the first time. This is absolutely the best investment I have ever made in my personal growth journey. I started with just the audio book, but within a week was back to buy the hardcover and the journal.
January 29, 2026
I'm not even finished with this book yet and it's already the most highlighted thing I own.
The Black Book of Power isn't a read-once-and-forget situation, it's a reference manual. I keep coming back to it, over and over. Every time I open it, something else clicks.
This is the game. This is epic. If you're serious about understanding how influence actually works - get it.
The Black Book of Power isn't a read-once-and-forget situation, it's a reference manual. I keep coming back to it, over and over. Every time I open it, something else clicks.
This is the game. This is epic. If you're serious about understanding how influence actually works - get it.
January 30, 2026
Hard. But very rewarding. This book is hands down the most eye opening book I have ever read.
August 31, 2026
Scam.
April 9, 2026
I was on the edge. Hovering. Reading reviews. Wondering if this would actually change anything or just become another well-intentioned book on my shelf. I'm so glad I took the leap. This isn't just information. It's activation. It doesn't talk at you—it calls you forward. It names the quiet helplessness so many of us feel and then systematically dismantles it. Page by page, it replaces paralysis with clarity, and clarity with action. What surprised me most was how personal the transformation felt. This book didn't just give me tools—it gave me back my sense of agency. I stopped consuming and started executing. I stopped waiting and started building. This is bigger than one person. This is the beginning of a movement—of sovereign, capable, awake people in a culture that profits from keeping us small, distracted, and dependent. If you're reading reviews right now, wondering if this is "the one," let me save you some time: it is. Read it. Use it. Let it change you. Then be the proof for someone else.
April 10, 2026
I'm only seven days into the protocol and this book has already called out parts of me I've been avoiding for years. I'm seeing how I used “empathy” as a tool for validation, and how much of my identity was built around that. But the biggest punch in the gut was realizing how much I've lied — to others, yes, but especially to myself. It's painful. It's humbling. But I'm strangely excited for it. I can feel things breaking down inside me, and instead of resisting it, I'm ready to rebuild with honesty as the foundation.
April 9, 2026
This book has been such a game changer in my life. The more you follow these steps the easier life gets. The more empowered you feel to continue making these changes to create more freedom in your life the better you will feel. It's about cutting the dead wood so more growth can happen. It's the perfect book to have in your life during the dark night of the soul. It all becomes clear and the path is there. Highly recommended and can't stop talking to my friends about this book.
January 24, 2026
Your parasite knows your every weakness. Destroying it will seem almost impossible, incomprehensible because it genuinely feels like you. Your quite literally in a toxic relationship with your shadow self. Its hard to comprehend that all this time you weren't even being your true self. Its even harder to unlock the cage you put yourself in, step out of that cage and into the light. Why? Your shadow self, the parasite, will do everything in its power to keep you there. Even if you manage to step out of your cage, you have to prepare for a truly terrifying fight for your life.
Your not just fighting your shadow self, your literally facing fear itself! All of your fears and insecurities stand before you once you step out of that cage, like a prison guard with an entire army going after an escaped convict. You may be thinking that its only a matter of winning that battle....that's not the only fight you'll have to win. The last battle you'll have to face would be stepping into the light and becoming your true self. Sounds easy enough, that is, until you realize you know nothing of the light or what will come from it. You face the last threshold of your life, do you stay in the dark? Where you lived your whole life, you know its hell but its a familiar hell, familiar darkness, misery, the bitter cold of disappointment and inner death you've been around for so long that it literally feels like home. On the other side, the light, warmth, life. its easy to say, "obviously, you step forward into the light" is it really that simple though? The light represent the endless possibilities of life. the problem with this is that you'll have no shape, no form, you wont know who you truly are because you stepped into the unknown...think about that.
Quite honestly, I've not had the courage to do the first challenge, "The Irreversible Move" I proceeded to Ch. 4 "The Marble Statue" but haven't read further. I had the book for 2 weeks now and can honestly say that this is the hardest book that I have ever gotten. I got the key to my cell, I've unlocked the cage door and swung it open...unfortunately for me fear has me gripped in its clutches...I have no right to read any further until step out of that cage and face fear head on...easier said than done.
To Mr. Taylor, I thank you for creating such a book. The first 4 chapters have opened my eyes, my mind to another dimension I never knew was there. Ive listened to those 4 chapters on repeat and always spot something I've missed before. Continue your work, continue changing peoples lives.
To anyone considering getting this book, I have 2 questions...
Are you willing and capable of unlocking that cage door and stepping out to fight all your insecurities, your doubt's, to fight fear itself?
Would you be willing to step into the light, into infinite possibility, into the unknown?
To anyone that bought the book...get ready for the fight of your life...literally
Remember:
"Imagination is everything. its the preview to life's coming attractions and the evidence of things not seen"
Your not just fighting your shadow self, your literally facing fear itself! All of your fears and insecurities stand before you once you step out of that cage, like a prison guard with an entire army going after an escaped convict. You may be thinking that its only a matter of winning that battle....that's not the only fight you'll have to win. The last battle you'll have to face would be stepping into the light and becoming your true self. Sounds easy enough, that is, until you realize you know nothing of the light or what will come from it. You face the last threshold of your life, do you stay in the dark? Where you lived your whole life, you know its hell but its a familiar hell, familiar darkness, misery, the bitter cold of disappointment and inner death you've been around for so long that it literally feels like home. On the other side, the light, warmth, life. its easy to say, "obviously, you step forward into the light" is it really that simple though? The light represent the endless possibilities of life. the problem with this is that you'll have no shape, no form, you wont know who you truly are because you stepped into the unknown...think about that.
Quite honestly, I've not had the courage to do the first challenge, "The Irreversible Move" I proceeded to Ch. 4 "The Marble Statue" but haven't read further. I had the book for 2 weeks now and can honestly say that this is the hardest book that I have ever gotten. I got the key to my cell, I've unlocked the cage door and swung it open...unfortunately for me fear has me gripped in its clutches...I have no right to read any further until step out of that cage and face fear head on...easier said than done.
To Mr. Taylor, I thank you for creating such a book. The first 4 chapters have opened my eyes, my mind to another dimension I never knew was there. Ive listened to those 4 chapters on repeat and always spot something I've missed before. Continue your work, continue changing peoples lives.
To anyone considering getting this book, I have 2 questions...
Are you willing and capable of unlocking that cage door and stepping out to fight all your insecurities, your doubt's, to fight fear itself?
Would you be willing to step into the light, into infinite possibility, into the unknown?
To anyone that bought the book...get ready for the fight of your life...literally
Remember:
"Imagination is everything. its the preview to life's coming attractions and the evidence of things not seen"
March 22, 2026
Initially I had moments when I had my doubts. Left the book on the cart, came back to it, and let it sit.
I decided to make a choice, a decision that allowed me to further investigate and question the programming we were raised and brought up with. The mental parasite we always deal with, the shadows we fail to see, the mirrors and windows of life that blind us to the path of being able to fully walk through the door; consciously, awake, and sovereign.
This book has given me that nugget I was waiting for my whole life. It allowed me to transform by doing the work and staying true to my self above all.
This book isn’t just an investment for it to be on the shelves. It’s for one’s self.
I decided to make a choice, a decision that allowed me to further investigate and question the programming we were raised and brought up with. The mental parasite we always deal with, the shadows we fail to see, the mirrors and windows of life that blind us to the path of being able to fully walk through the door; consciously, awake, and sovereign.
This book has given me that nugget I was waiting for my whole life. It allowed me to transform by doing the work and staying true to my self above all.
This book isn’t just an investment for it to be on the shelves. It’s for one’s self.
March 20, 2026
The Black Book of Power is written in away that gets to my core, self introspection began to happen almost immediately as I read the pages and yes, my "parasite" fought back and is still fighting as I continue to read and do what is required for actual change. Not only does this book tell what is wrong with our culture, society, media, government, etc.. It offers a solution and that solution is, you, me, to do the work and become self sovereign. I have been able to look my programing, beliefs, and at the authorities in my life realizing what I was taught was a lie and what they were taught was a lie. Growing up as a single child I could tell something wasn't right with this world. This book has given me the confirmation that yeah something is not right. All the fears that have held me back are rearing their heads as go through this book. So, yeah its a good fucking book.
March 19, 2026
The Black Book of Power by Stan Taylor is a highly practical and eye-opening read. I found it both insightful and applicable to real life, leadership, and decision-making. The book does an excellent job of breaking down how power actually works—not in theory, but in everyday situations.
What I appreciated most is its directness. It encourages awareness, strategic thinking, and personal responsibility rather than manipulation. Many of the lessons immediately made me reflect on leadership, relationships, and how influence is built, maintained, or lost.
Overall, I learned a great deal from this book, and much of it is immediately applicable. I highly recommend it for anyone interested in leadership, self-awareness, and understanding the dynamics of power.
What I appreciated most is its directness. It encourages awareness, strategic thinking, and personal responsibility rather than manipulation. Many of the lessons immediately made me reflect on leadership, relationships, and how influence is built, maintained, or lost.
Overall, I learned a great deal from this book, and much of it is immediately applicable. I highly recommend it for anyone interested in leadership, self-awareness, and understanding the dynamics of power.
February 12, 2026
My interest was piqued after I saw one of Stan Taylor’s social media posts about his book “The Black Book of Power”
I read some of the posts aloud to my husband D; he seemed interested while appearing to be doom scrolling. In reality he was tracking down the website.
Upon opening the website and reading a few items, my brain began to wake up. I devoured more and read some aloud.
D interjected, “Did you order it?”
I balked at the price, “Seriously?!? I can’t justify spending THAT much on a book, let alone an e-book!”
As I continued to read more excepts, my cell chirped a notification of an email from D.
He glanced up from his cell, “I just order you the ebook.”
I immediately dove in and blew through the first 100 pages that evening.
Part I- I felt like someone had crawled around in my brain and bore witness to my life/all of the observations I’ve made over the years, then put pen to paper.
Validating is an understatement.
Full Disclosure- I paused my reading at the end of Part I and ordered the hard copy; I want to highlight, write notes in the margins and take down my thoughts as I go and (for me) I couldn’t do that with an e-reader.
I started at the beginning and am reading with much more intention. I haven’t even started Part II and already feel the stirrings of a major change on the horizon.
I read some of the posts aloud to my husband D; he seemed interested while appearing to be doom scrolling. In reality he was tracking down the website.
Upon opening the website and reading a few items, my brain began to wake up. I devoured more and read some aloud.
D interjected, “Did you order it?”
I balked at the price, “Seriously?!? I can’t justify spending THAT much on a book, let alone an e-book!”
As I continued to read more excepts, my cell chirped a notification of an email from D.
He glanced up from his cell, “I just order you the ebook.”
I immediately dove in and blew through the first 100 pages that evening.
Part I- I felt like someone had crawled around in my brain and bore witness to my life/all of the observations I’ve made over the years, then put pen to paper.
Validating is an understatement.
Full Disclosure- I paused my reading at the end of Part I and ordered the hard copy; I want to highlight, write notes in the margins and take down my thoughts as I go and (for me) I couldn’t do that with an e-reader.
I started at the beginning and am reading with much more intention. I haven’t even started Part II and already feel the stirrings of a major change on the horizon.
May 11, 2026
Fantastic book. Its direct and unapologetically blunt approach is exactly what makes it stand out in such a saturated market. The Black Book of Power is about breaking the chains to the molded life society turned people into. Along with controlling your emotions and leans into the Ancient Greek philosophy, stoicism, to get you there. The book also gives you a step by step plan to practice its concepts. The directness may not be for everyone but that person may very well need this book the most. If that’s you. Push through. The world would truly be a better place if people followed these concepts.
February 12, 2026
Excellent source for self reflection and actively participating in your own journey for self improvement and addressing long standing challenges. Thank you so much for writing this book! The workbook is essential .
March 22, 2026
So far it's been a massive revelation. Excited to be starting the next chapter where the real work begins...
August 23, 2026
I’m only on page 104 and I already feel like I wasted $99. I love books. I read a LOT, and I genuinely wanted to like this one. I went into it expecting something along the lines of 48 Laws of Power — something that would actually make me think differently. Instead, this feels like someone took attachment theory, pop psychology, social media talking points, a little history, 48 Laws of Power, and a whole lot of dramatic metaphors and tried to make it sound like they discovered the secret operating system of humanity - that’s my biggest problem with it: there are pieces of truth in here, but he keeps taking a legitimate observation and then making a massive leap that the evidence doesn’t support. Schools influenced socialization? Sure. Childhood experiences affect behavior? Obviously. Media influences how people think about relationships? Of course. But then everything becomes “programming.” If you conform, you’re programmed. If you rebel, you’re programmed. If you’re successful, you’re programmed. If you’re anxious, programmed. If you avoid relationships, programmed. Apparently there is no possible outcome that doesn’t prove his theory. That’s not particularly deep. It’s a framework with enough loopholes that it can explain literally anything after the fact. Then I got to the Target pregnancy story- he presents it as the algorithm knowing a teenage girl was pregnant before she knew she was pregnant. Totally fabricated- read the Forbes article. The teen knew she was pregnant her father didn’t.
That’s not a minor detail. And then there’s the whole “Hollywood chose your acceptable identities” thing. Apparently Hollywood was also sitting around selecting my school electives. The marriage section is another one. He takes complicated historical, cultural, economic and relationship data, boils it down to “marriage is basically a property contract,” throws some huge percentages at you, and then presents the conclusion like he just uncovered a conspiracy nobody else has noticed. This book desperately wants to sound like it is revealing something hidden, but it sounds like a teenager learning about rebellion. That’s the part that bothers me most. It’s written to give you that feeling of “wow, nobody has ever explained this to me before.” But then you actually stop and examine the argument and realize you’ve heard most of these concepts before. They’re just wrapped in increasingly dramatic language about operating systems, programming, algorithms, factory settings, petri dishes, etc. bold language and if you question this book his methods you are a failure It’s trying very, very hard to be the next 48 Laws of Power. Except Greene actually gives you historical examples and develops his arguments. This feels like the author found a bunch of interesting concepts, connected them with metaphors, and then kept turning the volume up until everything sounded profound. And the irony isn’t lost on me that a book about power, influence and manipulation has a Facebook group where comments apparently have to be approved before they’re posted.
I’ve already found other people on Reddit who bought it, regretted it, questioned something, and then got removed or blocked from the associated Facebook group. So apparently I’m not the only person who got halfway through this thing and started wondering I paid for. Reddit shares this was created using AI - could account for the misinformation but also Stan is really an llc out of Brazil not a real person. I genuinely questioned the author himself before purchasing, but decided to do it anyways because usually even a bad book is still a book and I love reading. But every page has tremendous errors factually and theories that are leaps and bounds and unsupported.
Not even sure I can keep reading it because it’s full of so much misinformation But as of page 104: $99 was an expensive lesson to dig deeper before buying a sloppy book - writing this review anywhere I can as I have seen a lot of effort to remove any negative reviews or posts and if I save even 1 person the money ( because had I seen some honest reviews I wouldn’t have purchased this!)
That’s not a minor detail. And then there’s the whole “Hollywood chose your acceptable identities” thing. Apparently Hollywood was also sitting around selecting my school electives. The marriage section is another one. He takes complicated historical, cultural, economic and relationship data, boils it down to “marriage is basically a property contract,” throws some huge percentages at you, and then presents the conclusion like he just uncovered a conspiracy nobody else has noticed. This book desperately wants to sound like it is revealing something hidden, but it sounds like a teenager learning about rebellion. That’s the part that bothers me most. It’s written to give you that feeling of “wow, nobody has ever explained this to me before.” But then you actually stop and examine the argument and realize you’ve heard most of these concepts before. They’re just wrapped in increasingly dramatic language about operating systems, programming, algorithms, factory settings, petri dishes, etc. bold language and if you question this book his methods you are a failure It’s trying very, very hard to be the next 48 Laws of Power. Except Greene actually gives you historical examples and develops his arguments. This feels like the author found a bunch of interesting concepts, connected them with metaphors, and then kept turning the volume up until everything sounded profound. And the irony isn’t lost on me that a book about power, influence and manipulation has a Facebook group where comments apparently have to be approved before they’re posted.
I’ve already found other people on Reddit who bought it, regretted it, questioned something, and then got removed or blocked from the associated Facebook group. So apparently I’m not the only person who got halfway through this thing and started wondering I paid for. Reddit shares this was created using AI - could account for the misinformation but also Stan is really an llc out of Brazil not a real person. I genuinely questioned the author himself before purchasing, but decided to do it anyways because usually even a bad book is still a book and I love reading. But every page has tremendous errors factually and theories that are leaps and bounds and unsupported.
Not even sure I can keep reading it because it’s full of so much misinformation But as of page 104: $99 was an expensive lesson to dig deeper before buying a sloppy book - writing this review anywhere I can as I have seen a lot of effort to remove any negative reviews or posts and if I save even 1 person the money ( because had I seen some honest reviews I wouldn’t have purchased this!)
December 12, 2025
I’m on Chapter 5 of The Black Book of Power, and this is one of those books that has quietly been removing all my excuses. It's not a motivating book… it is exposing me to myself. This isn’t a “read and feel inspired” kind of book. It’s a do the work or stay exactly the same kind of book. I’m completing the exercises, catching myself in real time more often, and realizing how much of my go-to or default behavior has been unconscious for so many years. I started running because of this book. Freaking running! I thought I hated running! I ran my first 5k with my son and he won 1st place and I won 3rd! I also took all my 3 kids to Paris all by myself. Me , I did that... There's other changes in my life I won't share here for privacy reasons especially since I know many people in my life want this book. That alone should tell you something about what happens when you stop arguing with yourself and start applying the work.
So far, this book has been uncomfortable, humbling, confronting, funny and revealing especially if you have spent a lifetime being the empath, the fixer, the agreeable one (like me). Chapter 5 first day made me want to vomit. I have had to close the book several times, some because I needed to breath and digest and others because Stan called me out and asked me to come back when I am ready for actual change. I realized just how much I have been needing my parasite in order to feel safe. Figuring out why I am resisting to let it go has been a hard pill to swallow. There’s nowhere to hide in this book. It holds a mirror up to yourself and makes you to look without your rose colored glasses on. The facebook group has been instrumental in practicing some of the protocols some days and to hold each other accountable.
I can see why this book might trigger resistance. Comfort, playing small and familiar patterns are easier. This book is about power, responsibility, and raw self-honesty.
If you’re willing to engage fully, play hard, be honest with yourself, and actually apply what’s being asked, this book can change you at your core. If not, you’ll likely push back against it, criticize it, or dismiss it. There’s also no religious framework or aspect in this book but if you have one, you can absolutely bring it with you.
A couple of friends have asked to borrow my copy but for once, I’m holding onto it. I’m buying another one to gift to my son. What a gift it would have been to have done this work earlier in my own life. I want that for him. My friends can buy their own books :) Also, having people around you be able to "speak your same language" will help you thrive and move forward together and hold each other accountable.
The most rewarding change so far has been realizing my kids are witnessing my growth in real time and they are seeing a real shift in me.
So far, this book has been uncomfortable, humbling, confronting, funny and revealing especially if you have spent a lifetime being the empath, the fixer, the agreeable one (like me). Chapter 5 first day made me want to vomit. I have had to close the book several times, some because I needed to breath and digest and others because Stan called me out and asked me to come back when I am ready for actual change. I realized just how much I have been needing my parasite in order to feel safe. Figuring out why I am resisting to let it go has been a hard pill to swallow. There’s nowhere to hide in this book. It holds a mirror up to yourself and makes you to look without your rose colored glasses on. The facebook group has been instrumental in practicing some of the protocols some days and to hold each other accountable.
I can see why this book might trigger resistance. Comfort, playing small and familiar patterns are easier. This book is about power, responsibility, and raw self-honesty.
If you’re willing to engage fully, play hard, be honest with yourself, and actually apply what’s being asked, this book can change you at your core. If not, you’ll likely push back against it, criticize it, or dismiss it. There’s also no religious framework or aspect in this book but if you have one, you can absolutely bring it with you.
A couple of friends have asked to borrow my copy but for once, I’m holding onto it. I’m buying another one to gift to my son. What a gift it would have been to have done this work earlier in my own life. I want that for him. My friends can buy their own books :) Also, having people around you be able to "speak your same language" will help you thrive and move forward together and hold each other accountable.
The most rewarding change so far has been realizing my kids are witnessing my growth in real time and they are seeing a real shift in me.
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