Month: July 2023
Great Conversations by Peter Anthony Holder Review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Peter Anthony Holder showcases the heart and humanity behind some of our world’s greatest celebrities in the book “Great Conversations”.
The Synopsis
You grew up with Buddy Ebsen, Lindsay Wagner, Cloris Leachman, Yvonne Craig, and Burt Ward in your living room each week. You flew to the moon with astronaut Alan Bean, and you were with Christopher Plummer outrunning the Nazis in The Sound of Music. Now, they speak straight from the heart about their lives, careers, hopes, and dreams, and their two-dimensional images finally take on lifelike proportions.
What do Barnaby Jones (1973), The Beverly Hillbillies (1962), and The Wizard of Oz (1939) have in common? All involved Buddy Ebsen, but did you know that the Yellow Brick Road he traveled sometimes felt like The Lost Highway? See the sides of celebrities you never imagined in the other revelations in Peter Anthony Holder’s new collection of classic conversations.
Come down memory lane with Academy Award winner Karl Malden, and Emmy winners Ed Asner, Michael Moriarty, and Lindsay Wagner. Return to Broadway with Tony winners Carol Channing and Julie Newmar. Adjust the fine tuning knob on the memories shared by Bob Denver, Dick Van Patten, Gary Coleman, and Steve Allen. Liftoff once again with a couple of guys that left their footprints on the moon. You can almost hear their voices in these revealing conversations.
Discover the funny, fabulous, sexy, and sad sides of Gary Coleman, Mary Tyler Moore, Todd Bridges, Dana Plato, Alison Arngrim, Dick Van Patten, Montgomery Clift, Jodie Foster, Ronny Howard, Kurt Russell, Richard Thomas, Richard Crenna, Sidney Lumet, Jackie Coogan, Karl Malden, Michael Douglas, Marlon Brando, Steve Allen, Louis Nye, Tom Poston, Bob Denver, Alan Hale Jr., Ray Bolger, Jack Haley Jr., Amanda Plummer, William Shatner, Theodore Bikel, Mary Martin, George Takei, Alan Bean, Harrison Schmitt, Milton Berle, Richard Belzer, Lynn Johnston, Ivan Reitman, Jerry Orback, Benjamin Bratt, Michael Moriarty, Sam Waterston, Adam West, Yvonne Craig, Julie Newmar, Robert Cummings, Phyllis Diller, Bob Hope, Shirley Eaton, Sean Connery, Dirk Bogarde, Thurl Ravenscroft, Carol Channing, Mr. Blackwell, Lindsay Wagner, Tippi Hedren, Alfred Hitchcock, Melanie Griffith, Efrem Zimbalist Jr., and Stephanie Zimbalist.
Great conversations may never be so boundless again.
The Review
This was an engaging and memorable read. The author did an incredible job of regaling readers with heartfelt and thoughtful conversations with some of the biggest celebrities of the last century. One thing about the author’s plethora of interviews that stuck out to me was how the author was able to showcase or highlight the humanity and heart behind each of these celebrities, not only talking about their craft and their careers but how they approached the events of their lives and in reality illustrated the strength of their character in the process.
There were so many amazing interviews featured in this book, highlighting the long career of the author himself and utilizing a great wealth of creativity and honesty in the author’s writing style altogether. One standout interview for me was with George Takei, the legendary actor, and activist who has been instrumental in fighting for both Asian American rights and the LGBTQ community’s rights. The heart and passion for which the author spoke on both his breakout roles in Star Trek and the impact his stardom had on young Asian actors around the world, as well as the importance of understanding the history of our world and events such as the internment camps many Asian Americans were forced into during WWII, was a tremendous and impactful thing to read.
The Verdict
Memorable, thoughtful, and engaging, author Peter Anthony Holder’s “Great Conversations” is a wildly entertaining and insightful nonfiction book of interviews and discussions with some of the brightest celebrities in the world. The heart and depth of the author’s discussions with these celebrities and the author’s ability to bring out their humanity and shed away the glitz and glamour that the world knows them for was truly a remarkable read to behold. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
I am a Canadian broadcast veteran of almost 40 years, who has had the pleasure and opportunity to conduct countless interviews with hundreds of celebrities and others through a long career in radio and television.
For 20 years I was the host of a highly popular radio show in Montreal on CJAD that was later simulcast on a sister station, CFRB, in Toronto. I also spent almost a decade as a television news anchor at Global News in Montreal, plus I’ve hosted and/or reported on a myriad of television shows over the years.
Currently I helm the syndicated one hour weekly radio show, The Stuph File Program.
Over the years many have encouraged me to write about encounters with the stars. I’ve finally acquiesced and the book, “Great Conversations,” is the result. It’s a love letter to the stars because in addition to being a broadcaster, I’m also a fan.
Sexuality Beyond Consent: Risk, Race, Traumatophilia by Avgi Saketopoulou Review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author and Dr. Avgi Saketopoulou give an in-depth, thought-provoking look into the complicated world of sexuality, consent, and trauma in the book “Sexuality Beyond Consent: Risk, Race, Traumatophilia.
The Synopsis
Radical alternatives to consent and trauma
Arguing that we have become culturally obsessed with healing trauma, Sexuality Beyond Consent calls attention to what traumatized subjects do with their pain. The erotics of racism offers a paradigmatic example of how what is proximal to violation may become an unexpected site of flourishing. Central to the transformational possibilities of trauma is a queer form of consent, limit consent, that is not about guarding the self but about risking experience. Saketopoulou thereby shows why sexualities beyond consent may be worth risking-and how risk can solicit the future.
Moving between clinical and cultural case studies, Saketopoulou takes up theatrical and cinematic works such as Slave Play and The Night Porter, to chart how trauma and sexuality join forces to surge through the aesthetic domain. Putting the psychoanalytic theory of Jean Laplanche in conversation with queer of color critique, performance studies, and philosophy, Sexuality Beyond Consent proposes that enduring the strange in ourselves, not to master trauma but to rub up against it, can open us up to encounters with opacity. The book concludes by theorizing currents of sadism that, when pursued ethically, can animate unique forms of interpersonal and social care.
The Review
This was quite a compelling, thoughtful, and engaging read. The author expertly crafts a philosophical, analytical, and professional examination of the current culture of consent, especially with the rise of the MeToo movement, and the differences between that type of consent and the unknowable, unrecognized experiences during sexual or intimate moments that both shock and pleasure people. The use of case studies and personal conversations with others in her field, as well as the in-depth research the author conducted, allowed the reader to get a sense of the themes the book was dissecting and bringing to life.
Now I will be honest, this is quite a challenging book, in that it challenges the readers to keep an open mind and not only explore new and radical ideas that can flip our ideas on their heads but to explore our own minds and the experiences we have. The idea of not sweeping away trauma but learning to work with it and push ourselves through that trauma to discover new aspects of ourselves was quite an interesting idea, and one of many such notions the author explores in this book.
The Verdict
Memorable, enlightening, and thoughtful, author Avgi Saketopoulou’s “Sexuality Beyond Consent: Risk, Race, Traumatophilia” is a must-read nonfiction book on sexuality and consent. The morality, psychoanalytical, and introspective themes the author explores in this book will push readers to really think about life and the impact that trauma and sexuality can have on a person’s life altogether. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
Dr. Avgi Saketopoulou is a Cypriot and Greek psychoanalyst based in New York. She is on faculty at the NYU Postdoctoral Program in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, where she also trained, and teaches in other psychoanalytic institutes. Her published work has received several psychoanalytic awards, such as the annual JAPA Essay Prize, the Ruth Stein Prize, the Symonds Essay Prize, and the Ralph Roughton Award while her interview on relational psychoanalysis is in the permanent collection of the Freud Museum in Vienna. In 2022, she received Div.39’s Scholarship and Research Award and her essay, co-authored with Dr. Ann Pellegrini, received the first Tiresias Essay Prize from the IPA’s Sexual and Gender Diversities Studies Committee. That work will appear in a forthcoming volume titled “Gender Without Identity” coming out in Spring 2023 from the Unconscious in Translation Press. Dr. Saketopoulou’s monograph, “Sexuality Beyond Consent: Risk, Race, Traumatophilia” is published by the Sexual Cultures Series, NYU Press.
More information about her can be found on her website www.avgisaketopoulou.com
Blog Tour: Lord Manetu (Blackwood Pack Series Book 12) by Mary Rundle + Exclusive Excerpt
Hi Everyone! So glad to be here and today there’s an exclusive excerpt from Lord Manetu, Book 12 of the Blackwood Pack series. It’s about Theo, Norm, and Smokey who have a rocky path to their HEA but not to worry because the Blackwood Pack is always ready to step in with a helping hand. Please enjoy!
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After promising Jackson he would not seek out Theo until given permission, Smokey left the study, heading outside. He needed the peace of the forest to help settle his thoughts about what his options were concerning his mate. Opening the front door, he stepped outside, ignoring his bear’s objections. While he could understand and even agree with his animal’s demand for vengeance, he knew they belonged here with their mate. Revenge would have to wait.
Pausing on the porch, Smokey glanced around, smirking at the enforcers casually scattered around the edge of the forest. There wasn’t a doubt in his mind what their assignment was but that wouldn’t be necessary. He had no intention of doing anything that would cause his mate more anxiety. Nodding briefly to the leader, he stepped off the porch, heading for a path leading into the trees.
The quietness of Smokey’s footsteps on the thick bed of pine needles had the effect on his bear he hoped for. The anger was gone, stripped from his animal by the stillness of the forest surrounding them. Now he could think without dealing with the wild mood swings of his bear.
Moving slowly through the trees, Smokey let his senses savor the forest sounds and scents, reminding him of the many times spent with his grandfather learning the ways of the ancient ones. He kept that knowledge locked up, guarded against all who might seek to destroy it or use it for nefarious purposes. It was a part of him that had remained a secret—at least most of it—from even his two best friends.
But somehow Ghost had found out about some of it, which is why he’d insisted Smokey use it to save Harte. Thinking it over as his mind cleared in the peaceful surroundings of the forest, the impact of Ghost’s knowing about his power chilled him to the core. Not only did it expose him to danger, but it also compromised his friend—who couldn’t possibly know how vulnerable he might now be. Dammit!
Continuing on the path, Smokey headed deeper into the forest, letting the shadows cool his agitation. Ghost’s knowledge would have to be handled soon, but there were other matters he needed to figure out first. Turning his attention to his mate, the image of Theo filled his mind, causing his bear to roar in approval. I agree…our mate is gorgeous…and brave…and smart! Everything he learned from Jackson told him the Fates had found him a mate worthy of sharing the world he was born into; the problem was Theo was already spoken for.
Fucking hell! Slamming his fist into the trunk of the nearest tree, Smokey howled in frustration, cursing the turn his life had taken. Nothing had ever been easy, so why did he expect his mating to be? Rubbing his fist, he resumed walking, concentrating on the questions Jackson asked him, questions he hadn’t been able to answer.
He decided to start with the easiest one. Can you raise Theo’s cub even though you’re not the father? Smokey carefully examined his feelings and those of his bear and after talking it over with his animal, he knew the answer. Blood alone did not make a father, but the love he already felt for the cub certainly did. And the thought he might never get to show the cub his love caused a deep ache in his heart.
Trying to ignore it, Smokey moved on to the next question. Can you accept the father of the cub and welcome him into your mating? Listening to his bear growl in response, he knew it would be a problem—not for him, but definitely for his animal. That was the reason he couldn’t immediately give Jackson the assurances he was looking for. As far as he was concerned, he owed…what was his name? oh yeah, Norman…Norman for saving Theo’s life. According to Jackson, Norman was the reason his mate made it through the hell of Arald’s prison.
Pausing as the growls of his bear grew louder, Smokey gave his animal the finger, refusing to kowtow to his demands this time. It was rare for Smokey to stand up to his bear, but too much was at stake to give in. Finding a fallen tree trunk, he sat down on it and called to his animal’s spirit, seeking a meeting with him. Once the spirit appeared, Smokey closed his eyes and released control of his human spirit. Falling into a trance, he watched and listened as his spirit explained the issues to his bear’s spirit. Smokey knew the only way to gain his animal’s cooperation was if their spirits were in agreement.
Mary Rundle has a new MM paranormal romance out, Blackwood Pack book 12: Lord Manetu. And there’s a giveaway.
This is part of a continuing series by Amazon Bestselling Author, Mary Rundle – reading the previous titles is advised. Readers will enjoy catching up with members of the Blackwood Pack and reading about what is happening to them as the pack does what it does best ̶ caring for one another and helping shifters everywhere.
Barely surviving Arald’s prison, Theo’s luck has finally changed. Discovering an unknown passion for cooking, he’s settled into his new life with his fiancé at the Blackwood Pack. He’s excited about tying the knot with Norm in the company of all their friends. It’s everything Norm promised him during their bleakest days of incarceration and he doesn’t think he can be any happier.
Waking up at Arald’s, Norm’s sole mission in life is to help his Fated Mate, Theo, survive the horrors inflicted on them both. Now free, he sets about to make all of Theo’s dreams come true, including the most important one, the cub his mate so dearly wants.
Smokey heads North to pick up Kevin’s parents and deliver them to the Blackwood Pack before hurrying back to LA. Easy-peasy…right? That’s what Smokey thinks but then, what is supposed to be a simple mission, turns into a race to avoid human hunters who have already shot Kevin’s father. Using his skills honed as a secret agent, Smokey manages to elude the hunters, heal the father’s wound and then successfully transport them to safety only to find the Fates have a surprise waiting for him.
After a series of misunderstandings and then with some help from Jackson, the pack’s Alpha, Theo and Norm finally accept Smokey as their mate and set upon a journey to unite the three of them. Discovering truths about their past lives leads to uncovering long-kept secrets that end up bonding Theo, Norm and Smokey together, giving each more love and happiness than they ever knew existed.
Astounding surprises, rare and unique gifts, an action-packed mission, and many unexpected twists and turns make this passionate love story by Mary Rundle impossible to put down once you’ve read the first page.
Get It On Amazon
Giveaway
Mary is giving away a $50 Amazon gift card with this tour:
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Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d47292/
Excerpt
Peering into the underbrush to his left, Smokey found the glowing eyes of Ivan’s mountain lion staring back at him, waiting for the signal to attack. Then swiveling his head to the right, he found a pair of gleaming wolf eyes focused on him. Satisfied, he looked up through the branches of some huge pine trees, searching for Hawkeye, but the sky was empty. Huffing quietly, he turned his attention back to the three men in front of the cave where Kevin’s parents were holed up. Studying his preys’ body language, he deduced that the man on the left was the leader, while the other two were carrying out his orders.
Gesturing with one of his paws to Ivan, Smokey pointed out the man he was going to kill.
Ivan nodded, impressed by the giant paw with razor sharp claws.
Suddenly a hoarse screech broke the silence as a Red-Tail Hawk dive bombed the clearing at the mouth of the cave, causing the men surrounding it to scatter and duck. Before they could recover, a thunderous roar froze them in place.
Smokey’s bear rushed forward, his paw aimed at the leader, his four-inch claws easily piercing the man’s back. Ignoring the ear-splitting scream of pain, he clutched his prize then, pausing for a moment, he tore the man’s heart out. Swinging around, he saw Ivan’s mountain lion momentarily incapacitated by bear spray. Smokey’s eyes glowed red with anger as he aimed a paw at the man with the spray, his claws sinking deep into his stomach, eviscerating him. Scooping out his victim’s guts and scattering them on the ground, he then moved on to the next target.
Though all three men had now been killed, Smokey’s bear was still in a frenzy. Anger pulsed through him, demanding further revenge against those who dared hurt Kevin’s parents. Lifting up his head, Smokey’s bear roared again, silencing the forest as he broadcast his displeasure. Finally, after several more bellows, Smokey forced his bear into a shift and reclaimed his human form, his body still filled with adrenaline. Opening and closing his fists, Smokey slowed his breathing, calming himself. Standing in the clearing, he surveyed the bloody scene before turning to Ivan. “Anyone injured?”
Smirking, Ivan’s eyes lingered on the bodies of the men lying on the ground. “I’m assuming you don’t mean them. In that case, nope, other than a few scratches, everyone’s fine.”
“Smartass!” Before Smokey could say more, he heard Elen calling his name. Whirling around, he ran toward the cave, his gut tightening at the sound of panic in her voice. Once inside, he blinked several times until his eyes adjusted to the darkness, then spying Elen kneeling next to Harte, he rushed over to her. Dropping down beside her, he asked, “What happened?”
“He’s been shot and I can’t stop the bleeding, Gabriel.”
“Lemme see.” After Elen removed her hand from the blood-soaked cloth, Smokey gently lifted it, inhaling sharply at the still-bleeding wound. With the amount of blood Harte was losing, it was impossible for him to be moved. Replacing the bandage quickly, he said, “Here, press down as hard as you can.”
“Gabe, he needs to shift now. His heart has already stopped once.”
“I know…” Lifting his right hand, he extended a claw before cutting open his left wrist. Waiting a second until blood flowed from the wound, he put the open cut tightly against Harte’s mouth. “C’mon Harte…drink,” he muttered.
“Will it work?” asked Elen, trying to hide her fear.
“I don’t know…he’s weak.” Reaching down, with his right hand, he pinched Harte’s nose closed, hoping the lack of air would cause him to open his mouth. Waiting for Harte’s survival instinct to kick in felt like hours for Smokey, who was running through other options in his mind. But suddenly he felt a tugging at the cut as Harte started swallowing his blood. Removing his fingers from the man’s nose, Smokey was relieved to see the rise and fall of Harte’s chest as his breathing became steady.
Harte drank for several minutes before Smokey gently pulled his wrist away, licking his cut to seal it. “That should be enough for it to work,” he murmured, leaving the part ‘if it’s gonna work’ unsaid. There wasn’t any reason to stress out Elen anymore than she already was, especially since she was critical to her husband’s survival.
Glancing at the man she regarded as her second son, Elen softly said, “Thank you for coming, Gabriel.”
“No thanks needed,” Smokey smiled. “Kevin would kick my ass if I hadn’t.”
A shadow passed over Elen’s face at the mention of her son. “You haven’t found him yet.”
Placing his large hand over Elen’s delicate fingers, Smokey squeezed lightly. “No, but I will…promise.”
Author Bio
A few years ago, I wrote my first book, Dire Warning. Readers loved it and I was on my way to chronicle the Blackwood Pack, seven brothers who are gay wolf shifters in search of their fated mates—stories about love at first sight with twists and turns, angst and humor, romance and adventure and, of course, happy endings. Since then, the pack has expanded, allowing more stories to be told and different paranormals to be included. The series has become, as one reader described it…an “Epic Saga.”
Now, twelve books later, Lord Manetu, has just been published. I love the M/M paranormal genre because it gives my imagination a lot of territory in which to roam. My mind can really run wild and come up with some amazing stuff when it doesn’t have to stay inside the box. My story ideas come to me as if they were being channeled by my characters, all of whom I love (except for a few villains). They are eager to recount their lives, loves and adventures, and are not reluctant to let it all out when it comes to revealing steamy details. My writing style is free-wheeling and uninhibited and my readers tell me they love it that way; that it makes them feel like they’re right in on the action and a member of the Blackwood Pack.
I live in the Northeast and love the beautiful change of seasons, my husband, and our quirky calico cat, though not necessarily in that order. I read a lot (good for the mind) and love gardening (good for the soul). And I’m always happy to hear from my readers and can be reached through Facebook, my private Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, or my website.
Author Website: http://www.maryrundle.com
Author Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/maryrundle69
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Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14246427.Mary_Rundle
Author QueeRomance Ink: https://www.queeromanceink.com/mbm-book-author/mary-rundle/
Author Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/maryrundle
Shelter in a Hostile World by Mack Little Review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
An enslaved man on the island of Barbados after leading a revolt against the slavers finds himself being hunted by the militia, and the ghosts of his past in author Mack Little’s upcoming novel, “Shelter in a Hostile World”.
The Synopsis
Badu Obosi has not had an easy life. As an enslaved Igbo man on the island of Barbados, he’s done his best to keep his wife, an Irish indentured servant, and his children safe. When things turn, he has no choice but to lead the revolt against the slavers.
Now, hunted by the militia, he must make his run toward freedom. But the enraged slavers are not the only thing that hunts him. The ghosts of his past, and the transgressions that led him to this life, are hot on his heels as well.
Will Badu have the strength to face his past? Can he let go of those chains and find true freedom?
The Review
This was an incredibly rich and captivating blend of historical fiction meeting culture dynamics and more. The short yet powerful read delivers an engaging multitude of themes that deal with everything from slavery and violence and the horrors of the colonialism age to the more intimate themes of facing our pasts and finding our future where we least expect it.
The heart of this story rests in the emotional character development of Badu and the balance his story brought to the overall narrative. The heartbreaking losses he suffers and the sins of his own past show the complexity of his character and the way this elevated the horrors and violence of the slave trade during this era and the need for freedom that the people fighting against this system felt was emotional and impactful to read.
The Verdict
Thoughtful, insightful, and engaging, author Mack Little’s “Shelter in a Hostile World” is a must-read upcoming historical fiction drama that readers won’t be able to put down. The unique setting, the dynamic setting, and the heartfelt tension the author builds throughout the narrative help to solidify the imagery used in the author’s writing and made the emotional impact of the character’s final moments that much more meaningful. Be sure to be on the lookout for this book soon.
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
Mack Little grew up in the Deep South and has accumulated a vibrant experience that she often emulates in her storytelling. Her studies in International Politics and service in the Army have given her impressive perspectives which add layers of intrigue and twists to her storytelling.
After leaving the Army, Mack worked as a medical librarian and an adjunct professor at Texas Woman’s University. Mack has authored and co-authored several articles for professional journals such as the Journal of the Medical Library Association, Medical Research Services Quarterly, and the Journal of Electronic Resources. She has presented at the Medical Library Association Conference, the Texas Gulf Coast Healthy Communities Partnership, and the Special Libraries Association Conference. She co-authored the book, Disaster Planning: a How-to-do-it manual, published by Neal-Schuman Publishers in 2005. Mack performs occasionally in Community Theater.
Country Roads by Colin Leonard Review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A move to the countryside with his wife and child takes a dark turn when a series of deaths and the appearance of sinister figures prove the country is just as dangerous, if not more so, than anywhere else in author Colin Leonard’s “Country Roads”.
The Synopsis
Something is outside; in the fields, by the ditches, on the roads. Something old and cruel and vicious.
When Luke Sheridan moves out of Dublin city to rural Kilcross with his wife and baby, he imagines the worst part will be his extended commute to work. They can look forward to enjoying the countryside and being part of a small community. After all, his old friend Declan Maguire lives in the house next door and is a Garda in the nearest town.
But Declan’s devilish attitude towards drink, drugs and women means trouble is never far from his door. And worse, gruesome murders and the appearance of sinister figures at night mean the countryside is becoming a very dangerous place to live.
Country Roads—don’t go outside alone.
The Review
This was such an atmospheric and haunting read. The author did an incredible job of capturing the isolation and dread that can happen when facing an extreme threat in the countryside. The world-building and character development were incredible in this book. They showcased the author’s ability to artfully infuse tension into each scene that elevated the character’s struggles and fears significantly as the threats grew.
To me, the heart of this narrative rested in the folklore and mythos the author was able to bring to life. The way the setting and culture of the people in this small town played into the grander Irish folklore and the stunningly dark and creepy imagery really elevated the backstory behind these creatures and the impact they’ve had on this area and made the struggle for this man to protect his family feel all the more urgent.
The Verdict
Memorable, haunting, and entertaining, author Colin Leonard’s “Country Roads” is a must-read folklore and horror novel of 2023. The shocking twists and turns in the narrative and the small-town vibes and atmosphere that helped establish the terror these creatures would have on the story made this a compelling novel you won’t put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
Some grotesque creatures lurk in the ancient countryside of Co.Meath, Ireland. Colin Leonard is one of them. His stories have appeared in various online venues and been published in the anthologies Eyes from Gravestone Press, It Calls From The Veil from Eerie River Publishing, Horror Library Volume 7 by Dark Moon Books and The Vampiricon from Mind’s Eye Publications. His first novel, Country Roads, is published by Brigids Gate Press and is brimming with nasty Irish monsters.
More at:
Interview with Author Oscar Fernandez
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
Ever since I was a teenager I took an interest in writing. Since then, I have been keeping a journal where I document my life, travels, experiences, and mostly my thoughts about my current affairs, the way I view myself the world, and how I need to proceed to accomplish the life I want to live. One thing I noticed while writing though, was the ease by which words kept on flowing from my hand into the paper… So I kept on writing! On this note, I love to write on paper with a fountain pen; it feels smooth and somehow intellectual. I do this mostly for my personal writing on my journal, but for business writing I most definitely use my laptop.
2) What inspired you to write your book?
What inspire me to write my book was a genuine desire to demystify cybersecurity for non-technical individuals who may be entrepreneurs of business owners. Another reason to write the book came from the fact that I am an authorized distributor of a cybersecurity software, and based on the intricacies of the software, I realized how important it was to break down -even further- how cybersecurity works; in particular for entrepreneurs, and small to midsize businesses (small business: 1-99 employees; mid-size businesses 100-1000 employees). In a way, it is a venue to saying: here is cybersecurity for the rest of us!
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
The theme I would love for my readers to take with them is to realize that cybersecurity is not complicated as it may seem, and that it is more affordable than ever. Not only that, but base on a simple analysis of the current technologies use by a business, one can determine what are the technologies needed to protect them. So while the reader is going through the handbook, they can literally pick and choose what is best for them based on what areas of the business they need to protect. For instance, is it the WIFI? Their VPN? Or protecting the business from phishing attacks? Etc. etc.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I have been working in technology for the past fifteen years, and throughout this time, cybersecurity kept on taking a bigger and bigger role for companies and individuals alike. For the most part, I have worked as a consultant -a one man operation,- so one day I asked myself, how can I grow my practice to create a bigger impact while helping clients protect themselves? So cybersecurity came to mind as a topic that it is extremely important -besides their day-to-day operations.- Not only that, but I didn’t want to become just another business providing cybersecurity solutions; I wanted to differentiate myself through the demystification of cybersecurity.
Another aspect that drew me to write this book, is the realization of how vulnerable all of us are to cybersecurity attacks. We are note safe, at all! From identity theft to ransomware attacks, and everything in between, we are a moving target. So I wanted to become part of the solution.
5) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
I am a brand new author, and this is my very first book. So I haven’t have enough exposure in social media to know which one can work. So far, the book is published in Amazon both in the Kindle and paperback versions. And hopefully soon on an audible version as well.
6) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
The advice I would give to aspiring authors is to not wo worry too much about the format itself; just start writing. As one moves along with the writing process, one can begin structuring it. Eventually, all will come into place as you read what you wrote while providing flow, and structure. For publishing, there are companies out there that will format the file for you, so no worries there.
7) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
My mind is always on the go -for better or for worse,- but I would love to continue writing and make it be my living. To start, I would love to create a series of the book I just wrote, and eventually move to another genre, for instance, social and cultural affairs and even a personal biography. I feel there is so much material in my head waiting to be written!
About the Author
Oscar is an avid technologist with over fifteen years in the IT industry. He has worked and consulted with IBM, Apple, Anthem, Genentech (Roche), small to mid-size businesses, non-profits, city government, and most recently with TC Energy.
His ability to understand business processes, network security and find IT solutions to fulfill business needs is unparalleled.
Oscar holds a master’s degree in Global Management from Georgetown University and ESADE School of Business. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Notre Dame de Namur University, and he also obtained an Entrepreneurial Management Certification from UCLA Anderson School of Business.
Oscar is Cronus Cybersecurity’s CEO, and through his networking abilities and international experience, he has led the company to new highs.
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C5465RP7
Website: www.cronuscyber.com
Instagram: cronuscyberbiz
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/oscarfern
Guest Article: Jumpstart Your Writing Side Hustle: Turning a Hobby into a Business by Virginia Cooper
Photo Credit: Ketut Subiyanto via Pexels
Jumpstart Your Writing Side Hustle: Turning a Hobby into a Business
Are you looking to turn your passion and hobby into a profitable business? Many of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs have started this way – from kitchen-table businesses to tech giants. If you have an idea, the right approach, and plenty of dedication, you can make it happen. Here are some tips from Author Anthony Avina’s Blog for turning your hobby into a business.
Part-Time Business
A great way to start is by turning your writing hobby into a side hustle. This will help you test out the waters without having to invest too much time or money. You can keep your day job while working on your side hustle in your spare time until it becomes profitable enough to transition into full-time work. This also allows you to gauge interest in your product/service and adjust accordingly before committing fully.
Create an LLC
Once you decide to become serious about your business venture, registering as an LLC is important for protecting yourself and other stakeholders involved in the business. With the help of a formation service, you can register your small business quickly and easily online with just five simple steps.
Registering quickly is important since it will allow you access to key resources such as venture capital funds, banking credit lines, and even free marketing support services offered by banks and chambers of commerce.
Establish a Business Plan
Developing an effective business plan is key for any successful venture regardless of size or industry. Your plan should include research about competitors in the market, production plans, financial forecasts, strategy for marketing and promotion, goals, staffing plans, etc.
Writing up this plan will give potential investors an idea of what they are investing in and will also help provide guidance throughout the life cycle of the project. It’s also recommended that entrepreneurs update their plans regularly so they remain relevant over time despite changing market conditions or external factors influencing their businesses negatively or positively.
Come Up with a Marketing Plan
Having an effective marketing strategy is essential for any company looking to increase sales and gain more customers. A well-thought-out marketing plan should include research about target audiences, advertising campaigns, website design considerations, and more. Utilizing all available channels effectively can help maximize exposure leading up to launch day and beyond.
Build Your Online Presence
In today’s online marketplace, a well-designed website that accurately represents your brand is crucial for successful marketing. Providing customers with user-friendly ecommerce platforms can build trust quickly and lead to increased sales. Offering a superior web presence can give you an edge over competitors who don’t prioritize these aspects.
It’s important to use SEO strategies to get the most exposure online, so look into how to use keywords strategically. You’ll also want to rely on PDFs over other file types for online posts because they are the most SEO friendly. You can try this page to convert your other digital files into PDFs for free. Just drop in the file and let the tool work its magic!
Locate Funding
To secure funding for their project, startups can explore various options such as angel investors, crowdfunding sites, and grants from government programs. Careful research must be done to ensure that the best possible investment resources are obtained, which will help the project run successfully without running out of funds halfway through. This is crucial for completing the project successfully.
Use a Unified eCommerce Platform for Your Store
Unified ecommerce platforms can help to facilitate a smoother online purchasing process for customers, resulting in an increased likelihood of sales taking place. This is due to the better user experience, which can translate to higher profits over time through increased customer loyalty. Providing better service than the competition can help entrepreneurs gain an edge and incorporate features that can further improve the overall user experience.
Get Your Writing Business Started
Starting a business requires dedication and commitment to make your entrepreneurial dreams come true. It entails considering several factors, such as funding the operation, setting up an LLC structure, and facilitating online purchases via an ecommerce platform. By following these essential tips, you can increase your chances of success in the long run.
Are you looking for more great writing-related content? Then check out Author Anthony Avina’s Blog!
You can learn more about writer Virginia Cooper using this link!
Better Latte Than Never by CC Bridges Blog Tour + Guest Post
When I start writing a book, I always seem to know one character better than the other. That means I have to work a little harder at getting to know the second character. I find that as I write the story, I learn more about the characters, and then I usually have to go back and revise the beginning with what I’ve learned.
It was no different when writing “Better Latte Than Never.” When I started writing this book, I really got Finn. He is, after all, like me, a writer.
But there is more to Finn than that.
Finn writes incredibly popular books under the pen name Morgan Heart. All of his novels are tragic love stories, where one half of the couple always dies at the end. Originally his first novel had a happy ending, but before he submitted it, he went back and changed it. Why? Because it’s not realistic.
Finn doesn’t believe in happy endings.
In “Better Latte Than Never”, he confesses to Enzo why. His own parents had the greatest love story he’d ever seen, only for his mother to die young of cancer. His father never recovered from her loss, dying of a heart attack a few years later. This tragedy shaped Finn, made him the person he is today, writing his parents story over and over, although he doesn’t even realize he’s doing it.
Finn has a bubble around his own heart. He expects every relationship he has to fail. He keeps looking for the cracks, knowing an ending must come at some point. Because of this, he never lets himself relax, knowing something tragic is going to happen. He’s so focused on the ending, that sometimes he sees problems where there aren’t any.
When I started writing, I knew I had this poor shattered character, someone walking around with a broken heart but unwilling to do anything about it. Who could heal his heart?
That’s where Enzo steps in. I knew he had to be completely different, that he had to shine a light on all of Finn’s shadows. But at first, I didn’t know who he was other than he worked in the coffee shop.
It became very clear that Enzo was an artist. And in contrast to Finn, he had absolutely no problems with his own creativity. In fact, his art is how Enzo sees the world. He frequently thinks of things in shades of paint.
Enzo doesn’t immediately heal Finn’s heart. No, first he heals his soul, opening Finn to a new world of creativity, bringing him back to the time before his writer’s block.
But Enzo isn’t just Finn’s muse. In a now deleted line from my first draft, I have Enzo angrily tell Finn he’s “not his manic pixie dream boy.” Enzo has his own dreams and problems. He’s estranged from his parents. His best friend and roommate is moving out. He’s got to figure out if he wants a real 9 to 5 job or if he wants to keep trying to make it with his art. And that’s when Finn steps into his life and turns everything upside down.
I hope you check out “Better Latte Than Never” to see how these two manage to make it work, and the incredible art they make together.
CC Bridges has a new MM contemporary romance out: Better Latte Than Never. And there’s a giveaway.
Finn’s love stories always end in death.
He’s made millions writing as author Morgan Heart and his fans can’t get enough of his tragic love stories. But a bad breakup results in a killer case of writer’s block, and Finn needs to try something drastic to fix it, like. . .going to a coffee shop to write. There’s got to be a reason it’s a cliche, and in his world, cliches sell.
He shouldn’t be flirting with the hot, younger barista. He shouldn’t be using said beautiful barista as another character to kill off in his new book. And he sure as hell shouldn’t be getting his heart involved, especially since he’s still keeping his real identity secret.
Working at his aunt’s coffee shop is a temporary thing. . . that’s been going on for eight years now. One day soon Enzo is finally going to make it big with his art and move on. But when Finn walks into the cafe – confident, mature, put together, everything Enzo is not – he can’t help developing a huge crush, even if Finn is a customer.
As their relationship deepens, Finn’s deceptions and Enzo’s insecurities threaten to undermine everything they are starting to build together. If they can each confront their inner demons, then Finn might be writing a happy ending for the first time in his life.
Better Latte Than Never is an m/m age gap, coffee shop romance featuring a slow burn attraction that grows steamier than an espresso machine.
Warnings: Mention of partner betrayal, death of character’s parents in the past
Universal Buy Link
Giveaway
CC is giving away a $10 Amazon gift card with this tour:
a Rafflecopter giveawayhttps://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js‘
Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d47291/
Excerpt
Yeah, the cafe was so damn predictable. Except for this new guy.
Enzo downed his cake and tossed the plate into the trash. He should really square up with his aunt before she left for the day. Still. What if the guy left before Enzo could say anything? He’d make his rounds with the regulars after, but right now, Enzo couldn’t contain his curiosity about the stranger.
He threw on his apron and sauntered over to the corner where the stranger sat half-hidden behind a laptop. If this went wrong, Enzo could claim he’d come over to offer a refill. Not to, you know, see if the guy’s smoldering look when Enzo had walked in the door meant anything.
“Hey.” Enzo cleared his throat. “Thanks for coming to my birthday party.”
The guy looked up from his computer, those gorgeous eyes moving slowly upward in a way that made Enzo want to blush. His jaw was straight and covered with a smattering of stubble. Enzo wanted to rub his hands along it and enjoy the feel of the soft roughness against his fingertips…and in other places. There was an adorable sprinkle of freckles across his sloped nose. But his lips—perfect and pink and a bit too full for a man—were what made Enzo’s thoughts move straight into the gutter.
“It was my pleasure. Enzo, right? I’m Finn.” He held out his hand.
Enzo took it, squeezing tightly. Finn had a firm handshake, but his palm was soft and warm against Enzo’s. When he pulled away, Enzo curled his hand into a fist, wanting to savor that feeling.
“Finn? Is that a nickname?”
“It’s short for Finnegan.”
“Ah, a nice Italian name.” Enzo grinned and, happily, Finn laughed at his joke.
“What brings you to our cafe?” He winced at how terrible that sounded. Apparently Enzo completely forgot how to flirt when it was a customer he thought was hot. He could charm the old ladies like nobody’s business, but a cute guy? Nope.
Finn nodded at his laptop. “Came for the Wi-Fi and stayed for the coffee. And then the surprise party.”
He picked up his fork and stabbed the last piece of cake left on his plate. “This cake is amazing.”
“Everything my aunt bakes is amazing.” Enzo watched the bit of chocolate make its way to Finn’s mouth and the sensual way his lips closed around the metal of the fork. That shouldn’t be turning Enzo on right now, but God, if he didn’t want to follow that piece of cake with his own tongue against Finn’s lips.
“So what do you make that’s amazing?” Finn asked with a wink, and that was when Enzo knew they were in business, or at least on the same wavelength.
He could feel the blush creeping up his cheeks. “I don’t bake, but I do brew a mean cup of espresso.” “I’d love to have a taste.”
“You’ve got—” Enzo gestured to his own face. A smear of chocolate had found its way to Finn’s chin.
“Here.” He picked up a napkin from the table and brushed it away.
Finn took the napkin, his fingers tangling with Enzo’s for a moment. His eyes were smoldering. “Thank you.”
Author Bio
CC Bridges spent her childhood visiting other worlds in books, comics, and the starship Enterprise. It’s no surprise that she ended up a librarian, being surrounded by the books she loves so much. She writes about amazing worlds with honorable heroes. Her hobbies include paying money to get locked in a room for an hour so she can solve puzzles to escape, along with the aforementioned reading. She lives with her husband and son on the Jersey Shore. She is currently pursuing an MFA from Southern New Hampshire University
Author Website: https://www.ccbridges.net
Author Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/ccbridgeswriter
Author Facebook (Author Page): https://www.facebook.com/ccbridges10
Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccbridgesauthor/
Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2780312.C_C_Bridges
Author QueeRomance Ink: https://www.queeromanceink.com/mbm-book-author/cc-bridges/
