In The Literary Hedgehog, the charming sequel to The Poetry Mouse, readers follow the inspiring story of Miss Evie Mouse, a talented poet who defies societal norms to have her voice heard. When Mr. Hedgehog, editor of the prestigious City Magazine, receives her bold submission, he is initially skeptical. How could a small female mouse contribute something worthy of publication? But after a change of heart, driven by the wise words of those around him, Mr. Hedgehog realizes the true power of Evie’s poetry. With support from her friend Brayden Fox, Evie faces the excitement and anxiety of seeing her work in print for the first time.
This delightful tale teaches children the importance of believing in themselves, challenging outdated assumptions, and the value of friendship and encouragement. Evie Mouse’s journey shows that determination, courage, and the support of others can make dreams come true.
What this book can teach young children:
The importance of self-belief and following your passions.
Challenging stereotypes and societal expectations.
The value of encouragement and support from friends.
Courage in seizing opportunities and taking risks.
Introduce your young readers to The Literary Hedgehog, and let them discover how far self-confidence and the support of friends can take them. Spark their imaginations and inspire them to find their voice—just like Evie did. Add The Literary Hedgehog to your library today and join Evie on her literary adventure!
Children will love this sweet story about a mouse who writes beautiful poetry. Evie didn’t believe in herself and her abilities until it was pointed out to her by other characters. The publisher didn’t think women in general, let alone a girl mouse, could write. The publisher finally realized how valuable his secretary truly was, not just for pouring tea, but the business couldn’t run without her. Evie challenged the forces against her and became a hero in the process.
Please welcome Carolyn Summer Quinn to my blog. “Good morning, Carolyn! Please sit down. I’m thrilled to have you on my blog today. Carolyn is an award-winning Author of fifteen books.”
Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.
Greetings from New York City! I’m an Author and Photographer. I grew up singing show tunes in the suburbs of New Jersey and particularly like anything to do with the 1920s, the clothes, cars, styles, music – everything!
Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?
I’ve been writing stories since I learned how to write in the first grade. I loved it right from the start!
How difficult was it writing your first book?
My first book was MAMA ROSE’S TURN. It was a biography of Gypsy Rose Lee’s mother, Rose Hovick, whose unorthodox parenting style inspired the beloved Broadway musical GYPSY. The writing wasn’t difficult, but the amount of research I had to do was enormous! It took two and a half years of meticulous research in my spare time while working full time as well. When all was said and done, it was well worth all that effort. The musical was written by playwright Arthur Laurents, and it’s fantastic, but he freely admitted it was “75% fictionalized.” I found an entirely different story by looking into old newspaper articles, official records like the census, the family’s archives, and interviewing people who knew Rose or were her relatives.
Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?
No, I’ve never wanted to give up. I am writing because I enjoyed it. If I didn’t like it, I wouldn’t do it. I’m always rather astounded at some of the authors who say it’s a chore for them to write because I must wonder what’s going on there.
Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?
My parents were very supportive, and so was my godmother, but they’re all gone now. It’s my friends and cousins who are my cheering section now!
Anything specific you want to tell your readers?
If you enjoy writing and have an idea for a book, go for it! Start to write and see where it goes. To those who think they’re untrained, keep in mind that Dame Agatha Christie was one of the bestselling authors of all time – and she never went to school for a day in her life.
What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?
My father said the best attitude to have, especially in the face of any naysayers, is, “Hooray for me – to heck with you!” And the lady who ran the musical theater I participated in during the summertime in my town used to say, “Don’t let the idiots get you down.” In both cases I’ve cleaned up the language they used in those two phrases, tee hee!
What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?
I’ve written in three different genres, including two books for middle school students, but my main target audience is adults. My favorite genre is cozy mysteries and historical fiction. One of my most recent books, UNTIL THE STARS ALIGN, is about the Kindertransport and World War II, when Jewish children were sent to foster homes in the United Kingdom to escape persecution. That one is historical fiction. So far UNTIL THE STARS ALIGN has won eleven writing awards! And a mystery I wrote, THERE’S NO CURE FOR IMPOSSIBLE, was the Cozy Mystery Award Winner at the American Fiction Awards this year, too.
Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?
I pick out all the images for the covers then work with an artist who puts them together for me. Here’s how that evolved. One of my first books was for middle-grade students and I needed a cover with a nice picture of a 12-year-old girl on it. I was working with a different artist than the one I use now, and she found this utterly ridiculous picture of a girl who looked like a 15-year-old Lolita type! It didn’t work. From that point on I’ve had to insist on finding the images myself. I found a better image for the cover of that book, NOW AND FOREVERMORE ARABELLA.
What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?
I’m working on THE MYSTERY FROM WAY BACK WHEN. It’s set during the 1940s and 1980s in the Catholic neighborhood where my father grew up. It isn’t finished yet, but it’s coming along.
Any last words before we wrap things up?
I’d just like to say to other writers when they’re first starting out, as the old song says, “Don’t give up the ship!” Keep going! Give it a whirl!
I’m honored to annouce that Her Alibi was a Finalist in the IAN book Awards under Non-Fiction/Relationships. If you would like a copy of this impactful book of 69 pages, let me know.
Short Blurb:
No! This can’t be! Not after the joking around at my home last night. NO!!!!Did she use me last night? She’d never use her scapegoat child. No, she couldn’t! Even Marguerite wouldn’t sink that low! Or would she? Marguerite had always been abusive and vile to most people,and especially to her children and husbands, but would she shoot Harold?
Editorial Review:
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers’ Favorite
As a child, Mary could not figure out why her mother’s behavior toward her tended to be either violent or angry. As she got older the relationship between them only got worse, so much so that she could not wait to get out of living under her mother’s control. Her siblings were not immune and even her mother’s partners bore their fair share of her vitriolic attacks. After she had moved out, got married, and started her own family, you would expect that Mary would be free of her mother’s machinations. Then she received a call about her stepfather’s death which coincided with her mother’s strange late-hour visit. Could it be that her mother somehow found a way to rope Mary into her fiendish scheme? One so unbelievable it could involve murder?
Mary L. Schmidt tells a compelling story in her book. Her accounts are detailed and graphic, leaving precious little to the imagination. She explains her family history thoroughly, making it easier to understand her story. It is difficult to believe that some of the events transpired in the way she recorded them, but the waythe details come together in the latter stages gives the reader ample opportunity to draw conclusions as to the mental state of Mary’s mother and her capabilities. Her Alibi is another example of where reality trumps fiction and Schmidt must be commended for finding the courage to pen this book.
She risked everything for her country, now she’s fighting for her life.
A gripping WWII novel of love, espionage and courage in Occupied France, inspired by true events.
February 1933: When twenty-year-old Nancy receives an unexpected inheritance, she embarks on a world cruise that changes her life forever. After a whirlwind voyage, her journey ends in London, where she trains as a journalist, eventually finding herself in the glamorous, bustling city of Paris—a haven for journalists, artists, and refugees.
While covering assignments across Europe, Nancy catches the eye of wealthy industrialist Henri Fiocca. Though love is the last thing on her mind, fate intervenes, and their lives become intertwined.
As World War II looms, Nancy is appalled by the Nazi atrocities she witnesses in Vienna. Determined to resist the enemy, she vows to fight back. When Paris falls, a chance encounter with a British officer draws her into the dangerous world of the French Resistance. With courage and determination, Nancy plunges into a high-stakes game of espionage and sabotage.
Dubbed “The White Mouse” by the Gestapo, Nancy becomes a target of a relentless manhunt. As the iron grip of the enemy tightens around her, Nancy and Henri are forced to make a heartbreaking choice—what price will they pay for freedom?
My Review:
This is such a moving and unforgettable biography that reads like a memoir. Nancy Wake, aka Madame Fiocca, is a character of substance. Real substance. The protagonist has been researched well, and this amazing woman was brought to life. The story is well written and centers around WWII. She was a writer and journalist who fell in love with a wonderful man, who loved her just as deeply.
Our Halloween weaves an intricate web of mysteries and surprises. Once again, the authors Derek R. King and Julie L. Kusma give your family a book that teaches and inspires imagination. Every page offers beautifully designed illustrations accompanied by a story, poem, or the history behind the object portrayed. Also included in this book are excerpts from various prior publications, as well as original shorts stories from both authors. You’ll be excited by the colors, photos, and puzzles from the first page to the last. Monsters find their way into your line of sight throughout the book. But, don’t worry, there’s a story behind each one. You and your family will find yourself reading and re-reading this Samhain treasure.
This is a fun yet scary book centered around Halloween. Included are illustrations, photographs, and puzzles with many different Halloween activities. Historical references are included. The one that touched me most was the child crying in the house when no children were home. Furthermore, the adult was on the phone at the time, and that woman also heard the cries.
Please welcome J.P. Reedman to my blog. Good morning, Janet. I’m happy to have you on my blog today. Shall we get started?
Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.
I’m J.P. Reedman, and I am a full-time writer of historical fiction and historical fantasy. I was born in Canada, daughter of a Canadian soldier and an English war-bride who met in WWII but have lived in the UK for over 30 years. Home is a few miles from Stonehenge. There is a missing queen buried in my local town; her grave lost in time. Historical inspiration lies all around me!
Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?
I began writing very young—age five. The first story was a typical adventure tale, but that was quickly followed by one on Cleopatra, which stunned my grade 1 teacher. I seem to have been born with an innate love of historical subjects; this deep passion showed up by the age of four. I began writing book length stories in my teens. At that time, I wrote mainly high fantasy. However, in 1992 I moved from Canada to the U.K. and for about 10 years wrote very little. I began writing again after a serious illness that left me partly sighted for around 3 months. It was a wake-up call for me that if you truly want to do something, you cannot keep putting it off saying ‘maybe tomorrow.’
How difficult was it writing your first book?
My first published book was called STONE LORD, and it is a historical fantasy set at the time of Stonehenge. I worked at Stonehenge at the time and the story was not terribly difficult to write as I had daily inspiration! I knew what it was like out at the Stones in rain, mist and sun. I saw solstices and burning sunsets and walked in the stones at dusk. I even found a buried human tooth!
Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?
I never wanted to give up, but as I mentioned, I stopped writing for quite a while. I was busy with other things, travel and photography mainly. I must admit I had become a bit disillusioned in the late 80’s after sending out a large fantasy manuscript many times. ‘Classic’ fantasy wasn’t so popular at that time (it’s come back again, hurrah!) and it was costing loads querying and sending out sample chapters to the big Trad publishers (all before email was used so it had to be sent by snail mail.) When indie publishing became popular, it was like a whole new world of opportunities opened. It was now a case of ‘talent wills out.’
Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?
All my friends have always been extremely supportive, but it is my partner Dan who is my rock. He listens to all my writing (and selling) woes and drives me to various events and historical places connected with my books (so I can film them—and to just get ‘the vibes’.)
Anything specific you want to tell your readers?
Just that I am glad of their support. They helped me achieve what at one time seemed an impossible dream—to write full-time. I hope they’ll stick with me!
What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?
When I still lived in Canada, I was a member of a Science Fiction group. They published short stories in their zine, and that was where my first published work appeared. One chap, Garth, gave me some criticisms. I did not take umbrage at in the least—for I realized his critique was right. Too many adjectives! I do have a descriptive style, and reviewers have said that ‘visual imagery’ is a strong point in my books, but I learned to ‘hold back’ and edit out what wasn’t necessary.
What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?
My target audience for my main two series is anyone who enjoys historical fiction set in medieval times. The first series, I, Richard Plantagenet, is about the Wars of the Roses and Richard III, told in 1st person from Richard’s viewpoint. It seems to appeal to both men and women; it’s not ‘romancy’ and it doesn’t shy away from battles, though it does have some dry, sometimes black, humour.
My other series, Medieval Babes (yes, deliberately something of a joke title!) is a collection of 12 titles (and growing) biographical fiction about lesser-known medieval queens and nobles. It is popular with the same readership as Philippa Gregory, Jean Plaidy etc.
Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?
My covers are a mix. Sometimes I purchase them and sometimes I create them myself. It is quite hard to get ready-made covers which have images on them that resemble the historical figures I write about.
What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?
My current book, late but coming soon, is ‘The Melancholy of Winter.’ It is about Richard III’s older brother, the little-known Edmund, who was killed at the Battle of Wakefield, aged just 17.
Here’s an excerpt from the book. Edmund and his older brother Edward (future King Edward IV) are in Ireland as young boys: ‘St Brigid’s procession swirled by the drums and the pipe and the singing gradually fading away.
The rain stopped and a huge rainbow, the sky behind it black as pitch, arched across Dublin town, while the heavens brightened in the west, and burning golden light splashed over the walls and towers of monasteries and churches, wiping the dirt and dung from the damp, streaming cobbles and dancing off the crenels of the castle.
Dublin was indeed a strange and wondrous place, I decided, as our chariot rolled stolidly through the golden glare of storm-light to the castle’s gate, gaping a wide welcome beneath the banner of the Falcon and Fetterlock.
It might not be for long, but for now, this place, this sturdy fortress beside the Black Pool, was our home.’
Any last words before we wrap things up?
Advice for new writers—believe in what you are doing and don’t give up. If someone gives you a critique, don’t feel crushed. Try to look at it dispassionately and see if something can be learned from it. Also, remember, different books appeal to different people. Not everyone will like what you write—it doesn’t mean you are not a good writer.
BIO: J.P. Reedman lives in Wiltshire near to Stonehenge. Born in Canada, she has had a lifelong interest in ancient and medieval history, and is often found lurking around prehistoric sites, ruined castles and abbeys, and interesting churches with camera in hand. She became a full-time writer in 2018. Series include I, Richard Plantagenet, 5 books chronicling Richard’s life from childhood to Bosworth, and Medieval Babes, a set of standalone novels about lesser-known medieval queens and noblewomen. Her most recent release is Princess in the Police Station, the tale of little Anne Mowbray, wife of the younger ‘Prince in the Tower’ whose grave was unexpectedly found in the 1960’s. The next book to be released will be The Melancholy of Winter, which is about Edmund of Rutland, Richard’s tragic elder brother.
BOOK I AM PROMOTING: Medieval Babes 12: THE PRINCESS IN THE POLICE STATION: A TALE OF LITTLE ANNE MOWBRAY
After forty disastrous dates, Elsie Goode decides she’s kissed her last frog and turns to focus on salvaging her business that’s close to bankruptcy.
New-to-town veterinarian, Dirk Lovett, prefers the company of animals—they don’t crush your heart by lying and skipping town with another man.
In a twist of fate, Mr. Purrfect veterinarian hires Elsie to plan a birthday party. Her hopes for a happily-ever-after spike, but her conniving business partner promises to sign over her half of the company—if Elsie helps her become Mrs. Dr. Lovett.
Sole ownership will save the business, so Elsie takes on a dubious matchmaking role requiring lies and deceit. Trouble is, the pet whisperer falls for Elsie.
Now she must make a choice: continue to lie and save her company or give up and tell Dirk the truth—which will destroy his heart all over again.
We are pleased to announce that our judges of the 2024 PenCraft Book Awards for literary excellence voted your book “Heart of Evergreen: Christmas in Evergreen,” as our Fiction – Drama Genre’s Winner. We want our PenCraft Book Awards to represent true book winners, and your book was indeed one that met those criteria. Books that win our competition are examples of literary excellence and have demonstrated notable popularity with readers. This year’s competition was daunting, with around 1400 book entries to compete against, showcasing an impressive array of talent and creativity across numerous genres. Each entry brought something unique to the table, making the judging process both challenging and exhilarating. Being a winner in the 2024 competition is certainly something to crow about – you’ve not only beaten out many contenders but also distinguished yourself among a pool of exceptional writers and storytellers. This achievement speaks volumes about your hard work, and dedication, as an author.
To select our winners, the many PenCraft Award submissions are culled down by using a judging criterion that incorporates a recommendation from the initial AuthorsReader’s reviewer or PenCraft Book Award reviewer and then finalized by further evaluation by our judges. Their final evaluation considers not only how well the book was written and crafted but also, among other things such as the book’s marketplace popularity and how professional the book’s cover looks. The promotional effort taken by the publisher or author is another yardstick considered. From this entire process, the winners of each category are determined. Some book categories lacked winners because the submissions received did not meet our required literary standards.
The cookies are baked. The tree is trimmed. The shopping? Well, it’s almost done, and Fiona’s parents have finally returned home for a holiday visit—along with some unexpected unruly friends. Yep, Fiona’s perfectly planned Christmas is coming together, but how could’ve she planned for her favorite uncle’s murder? Who could possibly kill a sweet old man who’s played Santa at the local mall every year without fail? Fiona’s boyfriend, Detective Nathan Landry, is determined to find out—before Christmas day arrives. There’s only one problem: Nancy Quinn. Fiona’s mom is just as determined as the detective to catch the murderer, and she isn’t shy about getting the job done—even if it includes breaking a few pesky laws! Will Fiona and her mother find the killer first or will the killer find them?
My Review:
I loved this book! It was great to finally read one of the first two books in this series! I gained a bit of backstory and a lot of laughs at the antics of some characters and pint-sized little dogs. Add in Christmas, one murder, and a drug cartel, and the mystery around all of it makes for a great read!
Alphabites is a friendly frenzy of fun with letters and words. Children will love the alliteration on each page. This book will make learning the alphabet exciting and engaging; a cute little monster represents and introduces each letter. Words galore spill out on every page. The Alphabites throughout the book will make your child hungry to learn. At the end of the book, there are pages provided to ignite and fire up a passion for reading and words. The authors offer pages to practice upper and lower case letters. They’ve also provided pages to write their favorite word for each letter of the alphabet. What kid doesn’t like drawing at some point? Pages are also provided to transform each letter into a neat little monster or animal. Oh, what fun the kiddies will have. Alphabites is the perfect book to have on your kid’s bookshelf.
This is a fun book for both kids and adults. Each letter is used, of course, yet uniquely written with tongue twisting words along with words for what each letter sounds like. Adults will like this book, too. The illustrations are great.
Life on Molly is a travel and lifestyle blog. I am a normal girl with many passions. I am an explorer of new places, a learner of new languages, creator of my ambitions, blogger, and a good pal. This blog is my little corner of the world where I am able to share my adventures with you and inspire you to live a life full of purpose.
When Angels Fly 