Thursday, 20 September 2012

Fran Lewis Offers Up Five Cocoa Stars to The Book of Mysteries

The Book of Mysteries
By Fran Orenstein
Author's Web Site: http://www.franorenstein.weebly.com/
Publisher: World Castle Publishing
ISBN # 978-1-938243585 Paperback
Available on all on-line bookstores and all ebook formats.

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

Book of Mysteries Author: Fran Orenstein Book One: The Revenge of the Wizard: Beware: You are about the enter the Book of Mysteries at your own risk: To an ordinary reader this might seem like any mystery thriller filled with action, suspense, murder and drama. But, this book is quite unique and different because the adventures that he and his friend Zack encounter, live and experience will take him back in time to where wizards existed, dragons were feared, gargoyles had evil spells placed on them, scepter were used and a stolen crystal might be the answer to stopping a war. But, first he has to find a bookstore called Beadlesberry Rare Books. Now, you’d think that this would be easy. Think again! All you should have to do is ask someone where the store might be but this is not your ordinary bookstore. This one you see, is not always there okay so it disappears once in a while. I guess only a select few are allowed to enter it. So, Tyler’s work is cut out for him as his Uncle Thaddeus has charged him with finding the store and beginning his first adventure. But, first he has to find the store and then convince his best friend Zack to some along. Now, let’s enter the world of The Book of Mysteries by author Fran Orenstein and find out just what she has in store for these two teen adventures when we read Book One: The Revenge of the Wizard. Black clouds loomed overhead, cold fingers of electric tinged the air the author writes as we begin our adventure and Tyler’s fears begin to surface even before entering the store. A wooden sign with the name of the store looms in the distance and thunder takes control of the sky. On the glass-fronted door a sign stating that they close for storms and the lights in the store were out but out of nowhere a candle flickered and the next thing they knew both boys were inside of the store. Pulled in by an ice-cold claw the door slammed shut behind them. Feel the tension, the fear, as things are about to change. Meet Bartholomew B. Beadlesberry bookseller and know it all at your service to Tyler, Zachary and all readers of this great book. Enter the world of wizards, magic and spells along with Tyler and Zack. Take hold of the Book of Mysteries and note that it has only titles and not stories within the pages. You, the reader along with these two young boys will choose your own adventure, decide where in time you want to go and hopefully have the most exciting time or journey of your life. The Wizard of Balalac is first. However, no adventure can begin without the quartz crystal, which is attached to the magic pendant. Would you believe it comes from the lost city of Atlantis? Take hold of the pendant and choose a story and say the title out loud and off you go into the story. As the story begins both Tyler and Zack wind up in Balara and are now officially Barawagans and meeting some of the residents starting with Esmara in Maidenspa. What Zack and Tyler learn is that this poor country lacks hot water and even worse the land shakes every night. They manage to stay at the Spa and also learn that in the morning the spa is hot. The poor people need to know why this is happening and if there happens to be an angry dragon somewhere. Will Zach and Tyler solve the problem? Will they ever return home? What happens when they realize who the major of this place really is? He might look familiar not only to them? Things get strange and they try to relate the events to Beadlesberry but instead he pretends to not know these two young 13 year olds who just want to go home. Finding the bubbling water, steaming clouds, dragons and many more strange things they begin to wonder who they can trust, if they will find the lost pendant and whether they will ever return home to New York again. Young warriors is what the townspeople called them hoping that would uncover who the Wizard of Balalac was and wait until you learn why this wizard was causing all of this havoc and who was creating the earthquakes. Meet Ellby, Crumble, Bramble and a host of characters that you will fall in love with and maybe even want to visit them. Just how they go after the Wizard and who else is involved you won’t get from me. Will they ever get home or will they remain there forever? Find out when you read Revenge of the Wizard and learn that things in mythical lands are not that much different than ours or are they? Enter the world of the Book of Mysteries and take the adventure along with Tyler and Zack. Fran Lewis: Reviewer The Gargoyles of Gothica Imagine meeting two identical Goth girls whose father is King and whose mother is queen. Imagine a land surrounded by gargoyles that are supposed to protect the castle. Imagine an evil queen named Maeve who wants to get the throne of Gothica for her son. Imagine Tyler and Zack going back for another adventure and this time entering the book to the land of Gargoyles of Blackthorne and meeting Ivy and Lilyrose. Lily and Ivy might be identical twins and sisters but Lily definitely is more assertive and not so nice at times. Thinking that she is next in line to be queen she seems to like to rub it into Ivy but there is much more to this story as our two young brave Squires Tyler and Zack along with Ivy and Lily and their cousin Valor have to save the Kingdom before it falls and dies. Their cousin Mordant, his father Malevil and his mother Queen Maeve had plans of their own. The only thing protecting the kingdom is the Golden Scepter, which was stolen. But, when Tyler and Zack discuss a plan to get it back to help the King someone is lurking in the background and that someone is Mordant. But, is he really on their side or is he a spy. The author tells the story behind his mother’s tragic death at the hand of his grandmother. Her imprisonment and her final moments are described, the evilness of the queen and her plans to kill the royal family. Just why you won’t believe and how they plan to get her in their clutches, get the scepter back you won’t believe as our two young brave squires come up with a plan that would not only endanger them but might cause them never to return home again. But, finding the tunnel that leads her castle, hoping to get another set of keys to allow them into the tower is just part of the plan. What happens and if they succeed you will have to learn for yourself when you enter the book, take another adventure and find out if they get the golden scepter back or will Maeve rule Gothica? An ending that will teach everyone what happens when the truth comes out and the plan is finally revealed. As kids take the lead and prove that when adults and children really listen to each other things get accomplished and the world might just be better off. The power of knowledge, listening and understanding are strong messages in this book and understanding differences to try and rid the world of evil. Fran Lewis: reviewer The Centaurs of Spyr Fran Orenstein Uncle Thaddeus returns, dinner is served and Tyler and his parents discuss the events that have taken place thus far. As Tyler reflects with his family his past adventures another storm is brewing outside and you know what is about to come. You got it! Tyler and Zack go back to the Rare Book Store to find the mysterious Bartholomew B. Beadlesberry to learn what is next. Well, they decide but the adventure has already been written in this wordless book of mysteries created by author Fran Orenstein just with titles. Now, imagine if you are an educator and you want to encourage kids to write what about creating your own book of mysteries or titles and having your students create adventures for Tyler and Zack or their own characters and sending off their writing to the author. Now, let’s get to this adventure that leads them to meeting the people of Haven, learning about the war between the griffons and the hippogriffs and the reasons behind it. Well, not the reasons but what they think caused this problem to happen and how they think our two young peacemakers can solve a problem that has festered thousands of years. Finding themselves in Haven our two young boys meet the Oak Tree who leads the way for their adventure. Now, let’s meet Kai and Cassandra two lovely young ladies that live in Haven and join our two peacemakers to solve this problem With the help of the General Elm Tree and his fleet of great and smart trees they might be able to come up with a plan to stop the war that has been brewing forever. The first step is to meet the Centaurs who are at the center of this solution. Finding their crystal might help. The sacred crystal of the centaurs needs to be returned or else there will be serious retribution. Now, the griffons live in the North Mountains and are half eagle and half lion where the hippogriffs are half eagle and half horse. The Haven lie between the North and South Mountains almost like the center of a sandwich about to be eaten first. Got it! But, first they need to find and learn about the Book of Prophesies written and created by you guessed it Bartholomew B. Beadlesberry the Mayor of every town we visit. This guy gets around. Let’s not forget the two pegasuses whose telepathic powers will come in handy to help them. But, what do they have to do? First, they have to deal with the flogs that live in the cave and have the crystal. They eat beetle bugs and unless they cut off their food supply that will not have any leverage against them. However, with the help of the young graven tree and the addicting juice that the flogs cannot resist they hope to find and take back the crystal orb that they have hidden inside the cave in the Spyr Mountains and return it to the centaurs. Meeting with Bandor the Directorion of the Centaurs he allows them to ask for his help and eventually agrees. Returning the crystal orb how does it disappear and why does he think they betrayed the centaurs? Keeping Kai and Tyler hostage and allowing the Oak Tree to explain the situation the war begins between the griffons and the hippogriffs and Haven Woods stands to lose if it is not stopped. But, with a surprise edict Bandor agrees to meet with both sides but our two young hostages remain. Without the help and guidance of the precious trees, which I love trees and wish they would never be cut down, they might succeed. But, let’s not forget the two Pegasus Mist and Cloud. What happens and if they finally get peace in Haven Woods is a secret that I promised the Centurions I would never reveal. Will they convince both sides to stop fighting or will everyone fight for the next thousand years? What happens when four brave kids decide to take matters into their own hands, speak with the Trees, talk to the leaders of all sides and what happens might enlighten our own world leaders today. What about letting teens or kids lead the way to peace? Interesting to say the least. So, will our author bring these two back for more even though they might not want to reenter the book of mysteries? That’s a mystery that has yet to be solved and only author Fran Orenstein can solve that one. Three great books with great lessons for adults, teens and young adults to learn. Understanding, love, trust, loyalty, fair play and much more are taught plus these stories are great for teaching character education, group discussions, study groups and more. Fran Lewis: Reviewer Let’s give this book: FIVE SPECIAL COCOA TREATS

About the Author:

Fran Orenstein is an author, poet, and presenter. She has written:

REFLECTIONS
A book of poetry
Sleepytown Press
GAIA'S GIFT
A contemporary novel
World Castle Publishing
THE BOOK OF MYSTERIES
YA fantasy
World Castle Publishing
THE CALLING OF THE FLUTE
YA historical novel from Sleepytown Press
THE SPICE MERCHANT'S DAUGHTER
YA historical novel from Whiskey Creek Press
Tween Novels From Sleepytown Press
FAT GIRLS FROM OUTER SPACE
'tween fiction of self-image, bullying, and mastering 7th grade.
THE MYSTERY UNDER THIRD BASE
THE MYSTERY OF THE GREEN GOBLIN
 
 
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Tuesday, 18 September 2012

Permalinks: You need them to expose what you're writing on everything from Twitter to your Website


Lots of the writers who use this alternative review blog to extend the promotional value of their reviews don't know how to use a permalink. I each of them a little tutorial on promoting their participation in this blog, and--by extension--marketing in general. But I neglected to give them this information. I'll rectify that, but in the meantime, thought I should post it here for all my New Book Review readers, reviewers, and authors.

Here's what you do to get a permalink for any post on this blog or about anything else:

·        Go to the blog www.thenewbookreview.blogspot.com.

·        Find your review--the one you wrote or the one written about your book. Or a review of a book you loved reading that you'd like to spread around.

·        Click on the title.

·        Go to the top of the page where the address appears in the address window. It will be longer than the one you see above and include part of the title of your post.

·        Copy it.

·        Take it to wherever you want to keep a permanent record of your review/promotions (like your Web site, blog, etc) and paste it.

Easy as that. (-:

CHJ
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Monday, 17 September 2012

Diane Donovan Reviews Christian Nonfiction

Resurrect and Restore
By Paul Zecos
Author's Website: http//:www.lifeanew.org
ISBN: 13-978-1-62050-564-7
GENRE: Non-Fiction
Review originally published on Midwest Book Review; 5 stars
Publisher: Altrutech LLC

Review excerpts by Diane Donovan

 

"Christians with a special interest in the concept of eternal life will find Resurrect and Restore a powerful account...

Admonitions and revelations about the Holy Spirit are precise, pointed “…”

The emphasis is on personal choice and its consequences, with chapters building a Biblical foundation for their contentions, then moving into social and political arenas that link world events with Biblical insights: “….”

Building this foundation of Biblical wisdom, Paul A. Zecos provides a framework for self-assessment, social assessment, and revelation: "…"

The Biblical Foundation built here is supported by a Theory of “Dimensionality” (graphically shown as a Cross) that claims to provide a unified understanding of modern physics and of psychology.

While personal assessment is a big piece of the equation in Resurrect and Restore, there's an overriding and primary message here for politicians - which makes the title of special interest to Christian politicians and social leaders alike.

The conclusion… “…”…is a call to action."

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Sunday, 16 September 2012

KA-BOOM! Makes Big Hit with World of Ink Network

Title: KA-BOOM!
Written by: Alyce Joy
Illustrated by: Diane Lucas
Author website: http://alycejoy.com
Genre of Book: Children’s Chapter Book Fantasy Adventure
Publisher: Halo Publishing Int.
ISBN-10: 161244069X
ISBN-13: 978-1612440699
Paperback: 46 pages
Date: July 2012

Review provided by World of Ink Network


KA-BOOM! is about a little fairy named Sprout that runs into trouble quite often. She has a shoe fetish, but is one of the queen’s favorites because in the end she gets the job done.
Sprout meets a little girl named Taylor after blowing up Taylor’s dollhouse. Sprout doesn’t give up trying to get Taylor to trust her. She and Taylor finally become friends after Sprout shrinks Taylor and together they have a fantastic adventure. Taylor never thought she would be talking to Sir Leapsalot, let alone ride on his back and hopping lily pads. The message? Never give up.


Besides teaching children how to deal with fear and anger, Alyce Joy does a great job showing children how we can’t judge each other from first impressions. Children also learn friendships are something that grow as we get to know each other and face what life throws at us together.

What Others Have Said About the Book:

The author introduces some really cool vocabulary words for kids like lollapalooza and cumbersome, imperative, pathetic and many more added to a glossary of Sprout’s favorite words at the end of the book. Just think how cool that will be when you go to school and the teacher asks for words that mean the same as these and you come up with gallant for courageous or even humongous for huge. ~Fran Lewis, Book Reviewer, Author and Focus on Discussion blog talk radio host

This is a charming book that incorporates a magical fairy, adventure and a great message about having a positive attitude. You will be enchanted with Taylor and her adventures with a non-traditional fairy that has a great vocabulary! This is a perfect bedtime story that is bound to be a real page turner. ~Connie Marzullo, Principal, Sharon Center Elementary School


This is a fun book. It uses fantasy to create a sense of reality for children. The characters are colorful and invite children to create their own vision of what they look like. The word dictionary, in the back of the book, will not only define some of the words, but also provide a useful skill set for the children. A very readable book! ~Michael E. Carlson, Ed.D, Former Superintendent of Highland School System



Get a sneak peek of the book at http://youtu.be/Hq9sfmzH0-w
Available wherever books are sold and online.
 
About the Author: 
 
Alyce Joy was blessed with four children for whom she composed bedtime verses every night. That inspired her to publish a children’s book of prayers, entitled, “Priceless Gems.” When her children were grown, she began to write stories for her grandchildren.
Always fascinated with arts and crafts, she taught herself the art of pyrography. This fired her imagination, and she started burning life-sized pictures of wildlife onto all the doors of her home. Her wood burnings are scattered through the U.S. and Canada.
After deciding to put away her burning tools and torches, she enrolled in, and graduated from the Institute of Children’s Literature.
Alyce Joy hopes every child who reads her stories will look forward to each new adventure, as her favorite fairy becomes entangled into many, outrageous happenstances.
Follow Alyce Joy at
 
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Saturday, 15 September 2012

Holly Fox-Vellekoop Reviews Valerie Allen's Newest Book


Beyond the Inkblots: Confusion to Harmony
By Dr. Valerie Allen
Author's Web site: www.ValerieAllenWriter.com
ISBN: 9781478146117
Genre: Nonfiction-Psychology-Self-help
Reviewed originally for Amazon
Five Stars


Synopsis:

Beyond the Inkblots : Confusion to Harmony is a book of simple truths. It opens a path to calm anxiety and find inner peace. It leads the way for personal growth, understanding, and emotional strength.
At some point, we all come face to face with life's big questions dealing with who we are and what we have become. We wonder about those dreams we had and ask where are they now.
We deal with day-to-day issues of hurt, disappointment, and betrayal. We have dark days and sad times, but remarkably, we rebound and we survive. We have accomplished things great and small. We have found success. We have sipped from the cup of love and happiness.
This book offers insight into how we arrived at our place in life. It presents an opportunity to assess the choices we made that brought us to this place at this time. It offers the promise of positive change to reach our goals, find success, and experience emotional stability.
 
To take charge and be in control of your life, go beyond the inkblots, look deeper into yourself, and move from confusion to harmony.

Reviewed by Holly Fox-Vellekoop
Reading Dr. Allen's book is much like learning from a sage and/or having coffee with a good friend who provides practical advice and a much-needed dose of reality on topics which all of us must face in life. In these changing times, many young people and adults alike have no one to turn to for the wisdom the author imparts in this book. As Dr. Allen so aptly writes in the 'Introduction,' "This book is meant as a journey with musings about life's big questions. It is a place to begin a search and rescue mission for your true self." Read it once, read it twice, then read it again and heed the advice. Be sure to buy "Beyond the Inkblots" for your siblings, grandchildren, friends and anyone else whom you believe would enjoy a good read while gaining direction and self-discovery.
 
~The author may be reached on Facebook at Facebook.com/Valerie.Allen.520. She is the author ofBeyond the Inkblots: Confusion to Harmony, Write Publish Sell!, Summer School for Smarties, Bad Hair, Good Hat, New Friends, Sins of the Father,Suffer the Little Children
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Friday, 14 September 2012

Award-Winning Author Reviews Nonfiction Book on Culture

Title: What Foreigners Need to Know About America from A to Z

Written by: Lance Johnson

Pages: 614

Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform

ISBN-13: 9781468172362

Published: June 2012

Reviewed by Donna McDine

Whether you are a world traveler or not Lance Johnson’s book, What Foreigners Need to Know About America from A to Z provides an insightful first person account of his extensive world travels and experience. Cultures across our vast world often times clash because of our diverse differences and lack of understanding of one another’s customs.

Through Johnson’s willingness and openness to communicate with people throughout the world he begins with a direct and simple question, “What would you like to know about America you were always afraid of asking for fear of offending?” Intuitive conversation ensued practically every time, providing an inspiring opportunity for Johnson to learn about cultures outside his own as well as explaining American culture. Intrigued by the misconceptions foreigners have of America whether abroad or in their own travels to the United States, Johnson documented his extensive conversations resulting in the compilation of What Foreigners Need to Know About America from A to Z.

Lance Johnson’s one-on-one conversational writing style welcomes the reader from the onset. A natural born teacher, Johnson does not preach and keeps it simple with real life examples how the American culture operates. What Foreigners Need to Know About America from A to Z goes well beyond the misdemeanor of personal culture. For to understanding all the components of this extensive guide will educate the reader well beyond their expectations, creating an opportunity to simulate into American culture seamlessly.

What Foreigners Need to Know About America from A to Z is the perfect guide that does not need to be read from start to finish, but rather consumed by section of interest. Get your pen, paper, and highlighter ready for I’m sure any reader will make their own notations, highlight and earmark the pages for future reference for years to come.

About The Reviewer: 

Donna McDine is an award-winning children's author, Honorable Mention in the 77th and two Honorable Mentions in the 78th Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competitions, Literary Classics Silver Award & Seal of Approval Recipient Picture Book Early Reader, Global eBook Awards Finalist Children’s Picture Book Fiction, and Preditors & Editors Readers Poll 2010 Top Ten Children’s Books ~ The Golden Pathway.

Her interest in history resulted in writing and publishing Powder Monkey. Donna has three more books under contract with Guardian Angel Publishing, Hockey Agony, A Sandy Grave, and Dee and Deb, Off They Go. She writes, moms, and is the Editor-in-Chief for Guardian Angel Kids and owner of Author PR Services from her home in the historical hamlet Tappan, NY. McDine is a member of the SCBWI, Children’s Literature Network, and Family Reading Partnership. Visit www.donnamcdine.com.


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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Thursday, 13 September 2012

Carol Parsons Reviews New Karina Fabian Title


 
Live and Let Fly
by Karina Fabian.
Author's Web site: http://www.karinafabian.com
ASIN: B007Y5TCHG
Genre: fantasy
Originally published on Amazon
5 stars
Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing
 
Reviewed by Carol Parsons

 
My favorite dragon PI, Vern, is back in Let and Let Fly, a delightful spy spoof by Karina Fabian.Laced with tongue-in-cheek humor, this adventure tale is loaded with sparkling dialogue, and Clifford Simak followers will enjoy the lighthearted crossing of Faerie and Mundane as the “Sam Spade” of dragon detectives uses his talents in the real world.
Vern, a reformed dragon and his partner, Sister Grace take on an innocuous amusement company which serves as a cover for evil overlord antics of world domination – not just the mundane world, but faerie as well.
I’m not a fan of first person stories, but there’s just something likable?, lovable?, intriguing about getting inside a dragon’s head. Especially this one with his whimsical, sometimes pointed, perception of human versus faerie lifestyles.
Vern’s idea of the perfect working day? “The usual Monday morning activity: drug busts, thefts and muggings, the occasional prostitute. No magic. No mad science. No evil demigods bent on world domination. My kind of busy.”
My kind of dragon tale. This is a keeper and one well worth re-reading.
How you look at the world, depends on where you are.
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Wednesday, 12 September 2012

Basked on Military Journal: Iraq, Religion and Spirituality

Title: Not in the Wind, Earthquake, or Fire
Author: Philip Sharp
Genre: Iraq War/Religion & Spirituality
ISBN-13: 978-1470159986
ISBN-10: 1470159988
 
 
Synopsis
Not in the Wind, Earthquake, or Fire is a book based on the journal Staff Sergeant Sharp wrote during his second deployment to Iraq from 2006 to 2007. The setting is in what was known as the "Triangle of Death", a hot bed of activity and sanctuary for the insurgency. The Iraqis called it, "The Graveyard of the Americans". During this deployment 21 soldiers from Task Force Polar Bear (4-31 Infantry, Fort Drum, NY) were killed, 3 were captured, and far more were wounded. It is in these conditions that Staff Sergeant Sharp recorded his events, reflected on the reality of life, and vented over the circumstances. You will see the daily life of combat soldiers and the conditions they worked under. Not in the Wind, Earthquake, or Fire is not just a book about the Iraq War; it is also a testimony of a soldier's walk with God during those times. Philip Sharp carefully recounts many spiritual lessons that he learned while deployed and appeals to the reader to see God in their everyday circumstances.
 
 
Author Biography
Philip Sharp has served for 20 years in the US Army Infantry during which he graduated from Ranger School, completed 22 parachute jumps, and served as a Drill Sergeant. He has worked in a variety of locations to include South Korea and the jungles of Panama. He deployed to Iraq three separate times from 2003 until 2010. He has published articles and war game simulations in Strategy & Tactics magazine and currently is a contributing columnist for Modern War magazine. Philip is retired from active duty service and now lives in West Virginia with his wife Heather and four children were they are creating an all-natural farm and serving in church ministries.
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Tuesday, 11 September 2012

Terry Whalin's Jumpstart Will Jumpstart Any Author's Book

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Title: Jumpstart Your Publishing Dreams
Subtitle: Insider Secrets  to Skyrocket Your Success
By Terry Whalin
Publisher: WTW Press, Scottsdale, AZ
Author’s  Web Site: http://jumpstartdreams.com
ISBN :9781935085546
Available on Amazon
Also available as an Audio Book
Review originally published on Amazon

Reviewed by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, multi award-winning author of fiction, poetry, and the HowToDoItFrugally Series, one series for writers, one for retailers

Terry Whalin’s Jumpstart Your Publishing Dreams is a book that can truly give any writing career a nudge, but it will be invaluable to those who write nonfiction. For inspiration we have a foreword that tells the unforgettable success story of the Chicken Soup series  from Mark Victor Hanson. It illustrates his theory that persistence counts. He says, "I believe if at first you don’t succeed, so what?” He also uses his story to show writers how we must be ready to change our course if we want to succeed.

So here’s the thing. Once you’ve hopped on the wagon to success like Hanson suggests, Terry Whalin tells you how to steer it, how to keep  it in repair, even how to put it in the race. You’ll learn how

·        to plan,

·        how to get experience,

·         how to strengthen your story,

·        how to build your platform,

·         why you should get an agent

·        and how to get a good one. 

Even better. Whalin provides resources to help you along the way. Both in this book and to reliable sites online including his own helpful blogs and Web site. It sort of doubles the bang for the buck...er, book.

And here’s the real beauty of this book. It is based on Whalin’s real life experience in the publishing industry. We should not take lightly the advice offered by someone who knows, rather than someone who has merely researched, stirred, and served up the same old, same old hash.

Carolyn Howard-Johnson an author who has published every which way—from self-publishing to traditional. And in many genres—from poetry to nonfiction including the multi award-winning Frugal Book Promoter. She has taught for nearly a decade at UCLA Extension renowned Writers’ Program and was named Woman of the Year in Arts and Entertainment by members of the California Legislature.  She reviews books on writers' craft and marketing.
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Sunday, 9 September 2012

Book for Writers Does Online Tour

7 Easy Steps to Write Your Book
Subtitle: How to Get Your Book Out of Your Head and a Manuscript in Your Hands
By Ann McIndoo 


Synopsis:
7 Easy Steps to Write Your Book' teaches you how to write your book using examples and exercises. Totally interactive, the reader participates in learning how to prepare to write, creates a writer's Identity and their own powerful Writer's Power Tools. The book offers solutions for procrastination and strategies for dealing with "writer's block." The reader learns how to "Schedule Your Success" and get the book out of their head on to the paper.

Reviewed by Brenda Schinke, originally for Amazon


I recommend to all my clients who are wanting to write their book. Ann's makes writing your book fun and simple. If you think writing a book takes years, Ann's book is a must. Her easy process makes writing enjoyable. This is a must for every author to be and for those authors that took years to write their first book."

If you click the link to her book below, please "Like" Ann's book on Amazon. 7 Easy Steps to Write Your Book: How to Get Your Book Out of Your Head and a Manuscript In Your Hands! (Paperback)

 

Submitted by
Denise Cassino
http://www.bestsellerservices.com/
"Make your book an Amazon #1 Bestseller"
Publicist & Book Marketing Specialist
303 838 3399
skype: denise.cassino
www.BestsellerServices.com
www.mybestsellerlaunch.com
http://www.facebook.com/denise.cassinohttp://www.twitter.com/denisecassino

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Friday, 7 September 2012

Fictional Collection of Inspirational Archaic Quotes Published




 

Title: Vertical Algebra

Author: Mansu Edwards/Crater Rock Alien

Website: www.thedisappearanceofhate.wordpress.com (Currently working on a new one)


Genre: Sci Fi/Personal Development

ISBN: ISBN- 13: 978-0-9828699-4-9 ISBN- 10: 0982869940, ISBN- 13: 978-0-9828699-5-6 ISBN- 10: 0982869959


Title: Vertical Algebra
Author: Mansu Edwards
Genre: Sci Fi/Personal Development
ISBN: ISBN- 13: 978-0-9828699-4-9
ISBN- 10: 0982869940
Soon available for Kindle



 
Synopsis: A fictional collection of inspirational archaic quotes by late Black Englishman, Sir Kedcuv Rhineclavu IV from England. His words champion a positive mindset in overcoming mediocre thoughts and negative people. Rhineclavu's words are translated into Modern English and Extraterrestrial language by Mansu Edwards and The Crater Rock Alien from Mars.
 

BIOGRAPHY

Mansu Edwards is an Inspirationalist from Brooklyn, NY. He's self published two paperbook books, “The Disappearance Of Hate” and “Mental Diet”. “The Disappearance Of Hate” took readers on a poetic journey of negativity to a positive state of mind and action. “Mental Diet” was an inspirational cookbook of fictional recipes which encouraged and motivated people to achieve a higher standard of living. In August 2012, he released a Sci-Fi/Personal Development ebook entitled “Vertical Algebra”. It consists of inspirational success quotes from a Black Englishmen named Sir Kedcuv Rhineclavu IV, translated in Modern English by Mansu Edwards and into Extraterrestrial language by South East Crater Rock Alien from Mars. It's an innovative approach to conquering people's fears and insecurities. However, Mansu Edwards has entertained audiences with his literary talents at various venues in New York City such as the Harlem L Lounge, Alphabet Lounge, Nuyorican Poets Cafe’s “Night Of The Living Poet”, "Five Spot Soul Food Restaurant & Café “Sneak Preview Mini Promo Concert” and Sweet Grapes Winebar.
 
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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Thursday, 6 September 2012

HEADACHE: The Hair-Raising Sequel to BELLYACHE
By Crystal Marco
http://www.CrystalMarcos.com
Genre: Children’s Book
ISBN: 978-0984389919
http://readersfavorite.com/review/6690

 


Book Review

Reviewed by Joy H. for Readers Favorite!

“HEADACHE” by Crystal Marcos continues the whimsical adventures of Peter and Lina and the Candonite people that she introduced in her first book “Bellyache”. Peter and Lina were hoping to never see the villain again, but unfortunately he shows up, and this time in their own hometown. Goaltan’s main goal was to destroy all of the candy stores around, including the one owned by Peter’s papa. And Goaltan is willing to go to the extremes to get what he wants! But Peter and Lina are not alone either. They are both surprised to see their new Candonite friends from Maple Town show up to help in the fight to save the town’s sweet shops from Goaltan and his horrible Peblars.


Candonite people? Never heard of them? Me either, until I read this book. Candonite people are those little people made out of candy, but then are they real people too? Crystal Marcos creates a wonderful cast of unique, exceptional characters that tell the story of “Headache” so very well. I didn’t read the first book, but this one kept me hopping! With all of the twists and turns, I had to keep reading to see what would happen next with these fun kids. I love the idea of “Candy Kids!” It makes for such a sweet story! I highly recommend this wonderfully well-written book. It is a tale that will keep you smiling well after you finish its pages. And a wonderful read for your child around eight and over, because I think it is a bit too long for younger age children to read. I think you will be very happy you purchased this exciting children’s book.


Author Biography

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Crystal Marcos has been a storyteller her entire life. Being the oldest of five children, she had a lot of entertaining to do. She is a member of SCBWI. Crystal lives on the Kitsap Peninsula in Washington State with her husband and their daughter, Kaylee. BELLYACHE: A Delicious Tale is her first book in her children's book series.

BELLYACHE was nominated for the 2010 CYBILS Awards and a winner of 2011 READERS FAVORITE Silver Award.

Visit her at www.CrystalMarcos.com

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Wednesday, 5 September 2012

Jersey Girl Reviews Goose Pimple Junction

Title: Murder & Mayhem In Goose Pimple Junction
Author: Amy Metz
Author's Web site link: http://amymetz.com/
Genre: Southern Mystery (cozy)
ISBN-13: 978-0985138875
Publisher: Iconic Publishing
 
Reviewed by Kathleen Anderson Originally for Jersey Girl Book Reviews



When Tess Tremaine, recently divorced and looking to start over in a new town, settles into Goose Pimple Junction, she has no idea what she's in for! Meeting the townsfolk, learning "southern speak" and "goosepimpleisms," working in a bookstore, and an attraction to local celebrity Jackson Wright is enough to keep her busy ... or is it?

A 1935 bank robbery leads to the 1937 unsolved murder of witness John Hobbs. Seventy-five years later, Tess is living in John's old house, and while renovating the house, she finds an old key and decides to look into the unsolved murder mystery case. But someone doesn't want the past to be stirred up ... with Tess and Jack investigating ... murder, mayhem and a little bit of southern romance is sure to follow!

Murder & Mayhem in Goose Pimple Junction is an entertaining whodunit story with a southern twist! The author weaves an intriguing southern cozy murder mystery tale told in the third person narrative that immediately draws the reader in with its quirky humor and fast-paced action that has enough twists and turns that will leave your head spinning! Rich in detail and vivid descriptions, the story takes place in Goose Pimple Junction, Tennessee, a picturesque southern town with a lot of heart and charm. The description of the town and surrounding area was wonderful, there's nothing better than down home country charm and living. I loved how the author weaved the two time periods, the 1930s murder mystery and the present day, into a suspenseful and riveting story. This laugh-out-loud mystery story will keep you in stitches as you turn the pages following along with the townsfolks' southern charm, quirky "goosepimpleisms," and the drama and mayhem that follows Tess and Jack on their quest to solve the old murder case.

The author has created a cast of characters that are quirky and lovable, their southern charm, crazy antics and hysterical dialogue will keep you in stitches. The reader is transported to lovely southern town of Goose Pimple Junction, Tennessee, where the friendly townsfolk welcome you with open arms and sweet tea! I really enjoyed all of the characters, but my favorites were Tess, Jack, Lou and Pickle. I loved how the author balanced the murder mystery with romance, while the drama and suspense kept me guessing, it was Tess and Jack's lighthearted romance that kept me smiling.

Murder & Mayhem in Goose Pimple Junction is a riveting southern cozy murder mystery that will engage you to join in the investigation of the decades old murder mystery, while providing you with a dose of good ol' southern charm and humor. So pull up a rocking chair and set down for a spell with some sweet tea while the townsfolk of Goose Pimple Junction tell y'all their story!
 
 
----- The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Tuesday, 4 September 2012

p.m. terrell's Newest Suspense Novel Reviewed

Vicki's Key
By p.m.terrel
Author's Web Site: www.pmterrell.com
Genre: Suspense
ISBN 978-1-935970-03-3

 

Reviewed by Amy Lignor, author of Tallent & Lowery, originally for Suspense Magazine


Terrell has certainly proven that she knows the ingredients to creating a mystery that's filled to the brim with seduction and intensity. And, if possible, she's getting better with each and every novel she creates.

Vicki Boyd is the most capable woman working for her boss, Sam, at the CIA. In fact, she has a gift that no other agent will ever know. She can, quite literally, fly inside her own mind to places never before seen to uncover everything from drug schemes to political plots. She can find these locales like the best GPS on the planet, and provide latitudes, longitudes, even speak about the clothing of the people who live there. Unfortunately, her gift brings her to witness a terrible crime and she leaves the CIA in order to achieve a stress-free life.

Taking a job as an assistant to an elderly woman who spends her time breeding tropical fish, Vicki finds herself in a brand new location--a quiet one, but one that will turn out even more frightening than her last CIA mission.

Upon arrival at the Maguire's house, she finds that her new employer has had a stroke and is confined to her bedroom. She meets her nephew, Dylan, and is charmed by his Irish accent. Dylan, with the help of the slightly angry housekeeper, shows Vicki around, but the woman who hired her remains a mystery.

When her CIA boss suddenly arrives back in her life and on the Maguire's porch, Vicki finds herself dragged into yet another perilous journey in her own mind, stumbling across the fact that she's stuck in a truly frightening situation with no way out.

Parts of this story will make the reader feel as if they are the ones walking up that flight of stairs leading to Mrs. Bates' door in Psycho. The obsessive romance, the dark recesses of Vicki's mind, and the trouble that's been brewing in the Black Swamp area will come to life in rapid succession, forming a truly riveting read!

~Author p.m.terrell is the award-winning, internationally acclaimed author of more than fourteen books. She is also the co-founder of The Book 'Em Foundation whose slogan is Buy a Book and Stop a Crook and the co-chair for Book 'Em North Carolina, an annual event that raises awareness of the link that exists between high crime rates and high illiteracy rates. More about Book 'Em's next event can be found at www.bookemnc.net. Learn more about p.m.terrell at www.pmterrell.com.

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :