Tag Archive | reading

Goldenheart II

Dec29

Book Link

From Amazon:

Dear Reader, GoldenHeart II: We Are Your Family will love you forever. This love manual is the follow-up to GoldenHeart: How to Love Humanity, by Christina Goebel, M.A.

Written for orphans, foster children, foundlings, or lonely or discouraged people of any age, GoldenHeart II: We Are Your Family discusses topics that families share over their lifetimes with one another to learn, grow, and belong.

Unlike many books, We Are Your Family’s thirty-six international authors share their hearts so that you can revisit them any time you need acceptance, strength, encouragement, and love. This forever companion’s pages offer compassion, kindness, inspiration, motivation, and wisdom from people of a variety of ages and backgrounds about challenges you may face — which you will never again confront alone.

Though you may have lost family members and friends, or you may have never felt that you belonged to a loving family that accepted your gifts and abilities, we offer ourselves to fill your heart as lifelong companions.

My Review:

Mary Schmidt5.0 out of 5 stars 

Mary Schmidt

5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring

Reviewed in the United States on December 28, 2024

What an inspiring book! I loved this! Written for those kids who don’t have parents, those who suffered great loss, those with any disability, and actually everyone on Earth will benefit from this book. The book will help those with lonely hearts. Children are a big deal to me. Orphans need even more love and light. This compilation shares the human factor without hiding one single thing. By doing so, it spills forth compassion and love to all. This is a book to keep and read whenever you are feeling down.

Aunt Sheila’s Pandemic Diary

Dec6

Book Link

From Amazon

‘It’s happened, a three-week lockdown has been imposed by the government. One walk a day for food or medicine. They’ve got the old retired medics back in to help the NHS and Wetherspoons are refusing to pay their staff. It wasn’t clear if all the old medics worked for Wetherspoons’. Dedicated to all the shopkeepers, and everyone who stayed home, played their part and followed the science … Follow Aunt Sheila as she scribbles down her secret thoughts from the small corner shop. Hilarious and everything you wanted to know about the outbreak from Boris the PM, the Chancellor’s new furlough scheme, school closures, panic buying and baking bread. Hilarious, no holds barred, from Wuhan to Yorkshire, follow Aunt Sheila’s itemised diary on the little Northern estate, it’s odd folk and the pub closures. The Diary contains a free copy of ‘The Magic Vodka Wardrobe’ series, Book 5.

My Review:

Top reviews from the United States

Mary Schmidt

5.0 out of 5 stars Hilarious

Reviewed in the United States on December 3, 2024

It was truly a hilarious read. I laughed at the nick names used and even at how this book managed to entwine Trump, Boris, the Queen and her family, Wuhan, and lots of vodka. Thanks, Sheila.

Meet Carolyn Summer Quinn

Nov18
Small plant live and grow on the rock

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!

Book Link

https://www.carolynsummerquinn.com

https://www.instagram.com/sequinrosette

https://www.facebook.com/carolynquinnauthorhttps://www.twitter.com/carolynsummerq1

Fruitabet

Aug11

Book Link

From Amazon:

Embark on a juicy adventure through the alphabet with “Fruitabet: The Alphabet One Fruit at a Time”! From A for Apple to Z for Zarzamora explore the world of fruits through stunning watercolor illustrations, intriguing facts, and nutritional highlights shared with you by award-winning authors, Derek R. King and Julie L. Kusma with her Master of Health Education expertise.

Each page invites young readers to discover a new fruit, beautifully depicted and accompanied by fascinating information about its origin, flavor, and health benefits. From the familiar sweetness of apples to the exotic allure of zarzamoras, every fruit offers a delightful learning experience.

“Fruitabet” goes beyond the ABCs, offering practice pages for writing each letter, space to list favorite fruits, and an engaging activity to reinforce learning. With its blend of education and entertainment, this book is a must-have for budding fruit enthusiasts.

My Review:

Mary Schmidt

5.0 out of 5 stars A different take on abc’s Reviewed in the United States on August 9, 2024

Verified Purchase

What a unique and fun way to read with your child about the alphabet and a fruit for each letter. The nutrient content is a nice addition. As a reminder, just as the authors’ wrote, don’t try a new fruit unless you check with your doctor to make sure it is okay with meds. Parents can also help with this. Example: Grapefruit. Do not take if on blood thinning meds or if you have a blood disorder. An added section for learning how to write the letters both uppercase and lowercase, blank pages to practice letters, fun pages to draw on, fun activities!

Meet Misty Thurmond

Aug10

Please welcome Misty J. Thurmond to my blog. Good morning, Misty.

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

The awkward silence, the moment I realize that I must say something clever or pull a literary degree out of my butt. To be honest, I don’t enjoy talking about myself, but here goes.

I grew up living in the country in which going barefooted, fishing, camping on the river, riding horses and playing sports was the norm. The solitude of my childhood memories is still ingrained in me and influence my writing style. Over the years I had a fulfilling and successful career as a registered nurse, until health issues forced me into early retirement. “A real oxymoron, but multiple sclerosis doesn’t care if you’re tending to people’s boo boos or saving lives.”

*By the way, doctors have the worst penmanship. Learning to dance like Beyoncé would be easier than deciphering some doctor’s writing. *

Once I lost everything, it was just me and my thoughts. I began to journal them, and the journaling turned into a novel.

Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

I enjoyed spinning tales growing up and recall the nervousness that came with it whenever the teacher called upon me to read my short story, but my most time was spent in the medical field.

How difficult was it writing your first book?

My first novel was awful. It had good bones but lacked flesh. Who am I kidding, it was garbage. One thing I’ve learned about myself, “Practice makes better.” I’d say, “Perfect”, but that’d be absurd. No one’s perfect.

Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

Absolutely! When my father suddenly passed away and my mom followed him three months later, I was devastated. Picking up the pieces of my life and the aftermath took me a while, but out of it all I remembered one thing, “Life goes on.”

Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

Honestly, myself. My father was a late blooming author who wrote westerns, and he encouraged me more than anyone. God, I miss him, but I know he’d be proud of this new novel.

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Never give up on yourself or the love that drives you.

What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

It’s okay to stand in someone’s shadow for a while, but sooner or later you’ll have to take that step into the sunshine and embrace your future. That’s a lesson from experience.

What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

Readers 18+ with an interest in the supernatural and metaphysical genres.

There are written scenes in my books which are not suitable for younger audiences; adult language, darker topics that may trigger anxiety in people with PTSD or childhood trauma and LGTBQ scenes. However brief, or detailed, these topics are frequently used in my novels.

Writing in the metaphysical fiction genre means I must look past myself and explore many aspects before writing a story. It’s a “world building experience”, except the world is ever evolving and shifting in my mind.

Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

Honestly, I wanted something with more pizzazz and flare, but the deadline for Saku Binder of Voids prevented it. My publisher and I worked together on it.

What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

I’m working on the sequel to Saku Binder of Voids. As hinted in the novel, “Saku is handed a scroll as the Book of Gogyo evolves into the Blue Crystal, and a vision of a city with twin suns”. I’m cutting it short. I can’t release the title because it’s extremely unique.

Links below and book link below:

amazon.com/author/mistythurmond77

@AuthorThurmond (Twitter)

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/216127766

https://a.co/d/gHY7xZP

So This Happened…

Jun21

Book Link

I found a new review! I’ve been sitting at 92 for over a year. 93 my new number.

From Amazon:

After surviving the cruel rage of tyranny from her mother and ex-husband, Sarah Jackson traveled a new path; a journey of loss, heartbreak, and ultimately strength. How do we survive the unthinkable, our child suffering from a terminal illness? They say there is no greater loss than that of a child; I say losing a child is the king of loss. Sometimes the thing that helps us survive it, is knowing we are not alone. Bestselling author, Sarah Jackson, will take you on her journey of hope and strength as she provides an intimate raw look at her life.

New Review Number 93!

Top reviews from the United States

Lizzy

5.0 out of 5 stars A heartwrenching and important book

Reviewed in the United States on June 17, 2024

Verified Purchase

This book is a beautiful testament to a mother’s enduring love for her son, through the most unimaginable and heartbreaking circumstances.

I read this book over many days. There is a lot to digest on many levels.

Cancer is a brutal beast. It is gut-wrenching when an adult is diagnosed, but to be diagnosed at four, before his life had barely begun, is something impossible to understand.

The author, a registered nurse, was by her son’s side every step of the way. This book is a combination of many things: it is a woman’s journal (with many medical specifics), the story of a little boy (who loved water guns) and tried so very hard to carry on, the story of a woman fighting the imminent death of her son only to have an abusive husband (and mother) complicating and twisting her pain. It is also the author’s story of a blossoming love with a good man, who was steadfastly by her side, counteracting the sorrows, grief, and abuse as well as any mortal can.

In this book, the author mentions that after her son’s death, she was told by many that she should be “over it by now.” That hit me hard, as this is something I have not only personally dealt with, but seen many grieving human beings slimed with the same inappropriate and horrific commentary. We all have a right to feel what we feel and to grieve as we do. In reading this book, I hope that having journaled this sad transition from life to Heaven, that some comfort is given.

This was not an easy book to read, but an important one. I believe each reader will take from it what they most need to know. A brave and important book.


Meet Robin Burnage

May13

Please welcome Robin Burnage to my blog.

Hello Robin. It’s so nice to have you on my blog today. Shall we sit and have a chat about what’s going on in your writing life?

1. Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hi, my name is Robin Burnage, I live in Wales, UK and am delighted to have been asked to discuss my first novel ‘The Threat in the Atlantic’ which is book number eight in the series ‘The Merriman Chronicles’.

I know that sounds a bit weird, so probably need to clarify that the series was originally written by my late Father. He managed to write nine novels in total which I originally published for him. Sadly, he died in 2015 leaving some unfinished works and a plan for the series. Shortly before he passed, he asked me to continue the series.  

That brings back some difficult memories for sure, maybe for another interview.

2. Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

Honestly no unless you can count business plans and marketing blurb for property sales and rentals. I always ‘knew’ I was destined to be self-employed, so writing that sort of thing just sort of flowed. That was in a previous professional life before I quit the rat race and bought a boat to live aboard.

There was a period when I was living on the yacht, that I passed some time writing the start of a crime series – about a nearly retired Police Inspector in The Metropolitan Police in London. I’ve got a few novels underway and a serious lead character with a grudge against the system. But to be fair, cruising around the Mediterranean, popping into Tavernas and mingling with yachties took up a lot of time and I was never that serious about getting them finished.  They are on the back burner whilst I concentrate on The Merriman Chronicles.

3. How difficult was it writing your first book?

It’s certainly been a long process. Just getting into the right place psychologically after my dad passed away was difficult enough. It took until the end of 2022 to get his last novel ‘The Fateful Voyage’ published.  I’m glad I did though, because it rekindled interest in the series, plus helped boost sales beyond anything we could have expected. I think this was a bit of a catalyst for me – a kick in the butt if you like – to get on with the next book.

The starting point was always obvious – pick up where Dad intended the next novel to start. From that point of view, I already had a subject matter and a protagonist in Captain Sir James Abel Merriman.  I also had his crew, a ship and a period of history already mapped out to start the next novel.

There were certainly difficulties in getting the feel of the book right. Like Dad’s but also maybe adding my own flavour. There are some new characters and hopefully a bit of fleshing out of existing ones, adding some more dimensions. I hope so anyway, that’s what I was aiming for.

4. Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

Many times… next question!

5. Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

Uncomfortable question, sorry but can we move on?

6. Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Probably this book can be read as a standalone novel, but it’s much better to be acquainted with the series. Start with ‘A Certain Threat’ and work your way through it.

If you want a flavour of my Dad’s writing without committing to a series, then try ‘The Fateful Voyage’ which is currently not connected with the rest, other than the name Merriman. I’ve set it as book 38 in the series, so it will link up one day. But that means I have a lot of work to do!

7. What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

Oh gosh, just general stuff, I guess. Read lots, write lots. If you want to be an author, then you need to stuff your head with other people’s work.

Wear sunscreen – I forgot a couple of times when I was sailing and seriously burnt my nose. Being severely “tutted” at by an elderly French Pharmacist in Brittany was an experience I don’t want to repeat.

8. What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

OK, this should be obvious – Dad’s old readership audience. There are quite a few reviews on Amazon stating that the reader was sad the series ended. Well, guess what…. Merriman is back!  Hopefully I can gain my own following if – and it’s a big if – that ‘The Threat in the Atlantic’ hits the spot.

9. Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

The cover? You mean the book cover?  Well, I worked with an amazing chap called Colin Baxter, a Marine Artist from the south of England.  I have followed his work for quite some time as he does beautiful paintings of the exact era the book is set. Think of HMS Victory and Admiral Nelson.  Anyway, I had messed around with AI which was a huge mistake, so decided that this next cover needed to be extra special.

We started with a scene from the book. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but it features HMS Thunder and The Hercule engaging in battle. I’ve now got the original painting hanging at home and limited edition signed prints are available which makes it so much more special.

Colin is on social media if you want to check out his other work:-

@ColinMBaxter

10. What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

I have a plan for the next book, but not ready to share too much yet. Besides it might spoil the ending of ‘The Threat in the Atlantic’.

11. Any last words before we wrap things up?

I think I would like to give encouragement to indie authors. It’s tough having to do everything – writing, editing, proofreading, publishing, promoting…… you know the list goes on. But…. I also know that it can be rewarding. Being “published” with an agent and traditional publisher isn’t always the best route to market. At least as a self-published author, you control your own destiny… sort of!

Bio:

Robin Burnage is a first-time author taking on the challenge of continuing his late father’s series “The Merriman Chronicles”. His debut novel “The Threat In The Atlantic” picks up the story of Captain James Merriman on his return from his mission in the Adriatic in 1810.

Previously a property professional (for which he does actually have recognised qualifications), sailing and travelling always had a greater pull than accounting and spreadsheets.

He sold his business in 2012, bought a yacht and headed off on a five-year adventure as a full time liveaboard sailor. He also then travelled through Europe in an old Land Rover and then a motorhome before settling back in bricks and mortar.

He currently lives in Wales overlooking sand dunes and the Irish Sea As always he is dreaming about his next adventure.

Links:

Amazon author pages: 

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Robin-Burnage/

https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Robin-Burnage

Website:

https://www.merriman-chronicles.com/

Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7419857.Robin_Burnage

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MerrimanChronicles/

Twitter:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/merriman1792/





Verbiage From Literary Titan

Feb21

Book Link

Christmas in Evergreen: Heart of Evergreen by Mary Schmidt presents a riveting narrative centered around Kim Dailey’s profound personal upheaval. The story begins as Kim uncovers a shocking truth about her husband of five years, leading her into a vortex of emotional and physical danger. The discovery of her name atop her husband’s ominous hit list propels Kim into an unforeseen journey of survival and self-discovery.

The novel is captivating from the outset, with Schmidt’s meticulous writing effortlessly drawing the reader into Kim’s world. The intimate portrayal of Kim’s life with her husband, Steve, and the subsequent unraveling of their seemingly idyllic existence is both compelling and emotionally resonant. Schmidt’s narrative deftly navigates the complexities of betrayal and resilience, making Christmas in Evergreen a page-turner. Kim’s character is particularly engaging, her strength and vulnerability painted with a realistic brush. The suspenseful elements, particularly the looming threat of assassination, add a thrilling dimension to the plot. Schmidt’s ability to intertwine themes of suspense, romance, and mystery is noteworthy, crafting a story that is as much about self-discovery and new beginnings as it is about love and danger. The novel’s detailed settings and well-crafted dialogue enhance its immersive quality. Each character is rendered with depth, allowing readers to feel a genuine connection to their journeys. The twists and turns of the plot maintain a gripping pace, ensuring that readers remain engaged until the final page.

Christmas in Evergreen is a commendable work by Mary Schmidt, showcasing her talent for creating a multifaceted story that blends mystery, thriller, and romance elements. It is a recommended read for those who appreciate a story that skillfully combines suspense with emotional depth, set against the backdrop of a festive season. Schmidt’s next work is eagerly anticipated as she continues to establish herself as a versatile and skilled storyteller.

Pages: 165 | ASIN : B0CRGH8ZVY

Cyanide and Sensibility

Jan10

Cyanide and Sensibility (A Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery Book 3) Book Link

From Amazon:

Murder is on the menu and Phaedra Brighton is called on to serve up justice in the latest Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery.

While Phaedra Brighton might not have a Mr. Darcy (yet), she’s quite content with her loving family and loyal cat. Phaedra’s sister Hannah is the Jane to her Elizabeth, and Phaedra is ecstatic that Hannah has decided to move home for her next adventure—opening a business. 

All of Laurel Springs is out in full force to celebrate the grand unveiling of Hannah’s new patisserie, Tout de Sweet, including local celebrity Rachel Brandon. Hannah is a master of her craft, with confections so divine, one bite will make you think you’ve died and gone to heaven.

Of course, you never want that to happen literally. 

When one of Hannah’s famous dark chocolate cupcakes sends Rachel’s assistant to the hospital with poisoning, Hannah begs for Phaedra’s help to save her reputation and budding business. But Phaedra has more questions than answers: Who was the cupcake actually meant for? And how far is the culprit willing to go to take their target off the menu—permanently?

My Review:

This is a modern-day novel akin to Pride and Prejudice, yet with a totally different spin on the characters. Phaedra dresses in period clothing and lectures at the local university about that time frame of Austin’s novel. Modern teas with French pastries and delicacies about in many settings. Unfortunately, a person dies after consuming a cupcake laced with cyanide at her sister’s newly opened patisserie. Cyanide isn’t the only poison used in this novel, but I thought I had the suspect figured out, but I was wrong. I did not see the ending coming. Five shiny gold stars.

A Grosvenor Square Christmas

Dec22

Book Link

From Amazon:

Four breathtakingly romantic tales of a Regency Christmas from four bestselling romance authors.

Down through the years, enchantment touches a tall gray house in Grosvenor Square. The legend of Lady Winterson’s Christmas ball promises true love and happiness to one lucky couple. Who will feel the magic this winter?

1803 – The Seduction of a Duchess by Shana Galen

Rowena Harcourt, the Duchess of Valère, never forgot the handsome footman who helped her escape the French Revolution. For fourteen years, Gabriel Lamarque has loved Rowena—now at Lady Winterson’s Christmas ball, has fate finally delivered a chance to win her hand?

1818 – One Kiss for Christmas by Vanessa Kelly

Nigel Dash is London’s most reliable gentleman, a reputation he never minded until he fell in love with beautiful Amelia Easton. Unfortunately, Amelia sees Nigel as a dependable friend, not a dashing suitor. At Lady Winterson’s famous Christmas ball, Nigel vows to change Amelia’s mind—by sweeping her off her feet.

1825 – His Christmas Cinderella by Anna Campbell

At the season’s most glittering ball, a girl who has never dared to dream of forever after discovers a Christmas miracle.

1830 – The Last First Kiss by Kate Noble

Susannah Westforth has always loved Sebastian Beckett – but he’s only ever seen her as a friend. When Sebastian takes his Grand Tour, Susannah transforms herself into a woman he’ll notice. Now Sebastian is back, just in time for Lady Winterson’s Christmas ball – but the last thing he expects to see is his little Susie, all grown up…

You’re invited to join the whirling dance at Lady Winterson’s sparkling Christmas ball, where miracles happen and true love shines forever. How can you resist?

My Review:

Wow. Talk about an awesome way to find love matches at 3 Grosvenor. Christmas time is special, and more so if one has a highly covered invite to the Christmas ball and Lady Winterson’s ball is always a real crush. The different stories in this book involve Winterson’s Christmas ball, but each differ in presentation. Five stars!