Dogs or cats?
Since today’s post is delayed, the cats vs dogs debate is clear…why not both?
Author: authoranthonyavinablog
Anthony Avina, (Born March 1990), is an author, a journalist, and a blogger. Born in Southern California, he has battled through injuries, disabilities, moves back and forth across the country, and more, yet still maintains a creative voice that he hopes to use not only to entertain but to inspire hope in even the darkest situations.
He writes short stories and novels in several genres, and is also a seasoned journalist for the online magazine, On Request Magazine, as well as the popular site TheGamer. Having grown up reading the books of Dean Koontz and Stephen King, they inspired him to write new and exciting stories that delved into the minds of richly developed characters. He constantly tries to write stories that have never been told before, and to paint a picture in your mind while you are reading the book, as if you could see every scene of the book as if it were a movie you were watching. His stories will get your imaginations working, and will also show that in spite of the most despairing and horrific situations, hope is never out of reach. He am always writing, and so there will never be a shortage of new stories for your reading pleasure.
http://www.authoranthonyavinablog.com
Righteous Rebellion by James Hooker Review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A daring move by a religious movement leads to a southern state seceding from the United States, leading to a domino effect that will change the landscape forever in author James Hooker’s “Righteous Rebellion.”
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The Synopsis
In the waning days of the Great Republic, a small, conservative southern state, having lost faith in the country and being led by an overzealous “servant of the Lord,” decides to secede from the Union.
In the process, we meet characters from both sides of the culture clash, including a mad pastor, a delusional Nazi pervert, religious zealots, a self-interested wanna-be “President,” a scheming real estate developer, a mysterious Middle Eastern monarch, a crazy ayatollah with a dangerous scheme to embarrass America, an oversexed administrative assistant, a territory-grabbing drug kingpin, an unhinged “First Lady,” a befuddled General Staff, and a beleaguered American President who tries to keep the whole wild world in check.
Can the United States keep itself in tact in the midst of a “Righteous Rebellion?”
The Review
This was a gripping read. The author did an amazing job of capturing the heart of the political divide that has become the heart of the American political machine. The imagery and atmosphere of the novel allow the reader to feel the rising tensions across the nation, and the way the author blends in humorous dialogue through these characters helps underscore the stakes at play for the narrative.
The heart of the story rests in the massive character arcs played out throughout the narrative. Early on readers see the influence religion and old school mentality has on modern day politics, and the way each character’s motivations impact the story were greatly felt. The story doesn’t just impact the nation, but the world as a whole, and highlights how much the United States influences how the rest of the world turns at this point in time.
The Verdict
A brilliant blend of Stephen King’s The Stand meets Civil War, author James Hooker’s Righteous Rebellion is a must-read political and historical fiction. The use of satire and real-world political divides allowed the reader to get fully immersed in the minds of these figures, and see how that divide impacts the world stage as a whole.
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
James Hooker is an American writer who explores various genres, from humor, satire and historical fiction. In the realm of literary achievements James Hooker stands out as a brilliant writer with a boundless imagination. Recent books include “Redneck Riviera” and “Righteous Rebellion”. He entices his readers to believe that true meaning can be found not just in the destination but in the journey itself.
Vermillion Harvest – Playtime at the Bagh by Reenita M. Hora Review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young couple from very different communities must find each other and safety before an attack that will be heard around the world in author Reenita m. Hora’s “Vermillion Harvest – Playtime at the Bagh.”
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The Synopsis
In a politically tense Amritsar, India, Aruna, an Anglo-Indian schoolteacher, and Ayaz, a feisty Muslim law student, fall in love only to discover that courting openly is easier said than done. Not only are they from different communities, but his political activism during the tumultuous year of 1919 comes at the cost of their romance.
Against the deadline of a military order, Aruna, who is only nineteen, must find her lover and warn him about Colonel Dyer’s impending attack on Jallianwala Bagh. An attack that is eventually heard around the world.
Playtime at the Bagh during Baishakhi is a metaphor for Colonel Dyer’s rain of bullets released upon thousands on the one fateful day of April 13th, 1919.
Love, hate, denial, and betrayal are wrapped inside a single love story capturing today’s hope with yesterday’s despair.
The Review
This was such a powerful and emotional read. The historical romance of the novel is prevalent from the beginning, allowing the relationship between Aruna and Ayaz to grow and develop naturally, allowing the reader to form an emotional bond with the characters. The author’s intense and heavy atmosphere throughout the narrative brings the reader into the shocking and heartbreaking realities of this historical moment in time.
The large-scale struggles of the conflict to come may be the setting of this novel, but the personal struggles of the two protagonists as they deal with their love for one another, his political protests, and the clash of cultures that make their relationship a struggle overall made this novel so enthralling. The attention to detail that the author puts into the historical side of the story showcases the tragedy and horrific nature of what so many people had to live through and helped put into perspective so much of what the Indian community had to endure during that time.
The Verdict
Heartfelt, engaging, and powerfully written author Reenita M Hora’s “Vermillion Harvest – Playtime at the Bagh” is a must-read historical fiction romance novel. The twists and turns in the story, the heartbreaking realities that the people faced during this event, and the rich and dynamic character arcs made this one book readers woulnd’t be able to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Reenita, the ‘Nora Ephron’ of South Asian storytelling, spinning yarns as eclectic as Mumbai’s iconic ‘Bhel Puri’ – a tantalizing concoction of flavors with an occasional bug for that extra crunch! Her stories star a motley crew of characters caught in the whirlwind of imperfect scenarios, all while stubbornly refusing to sell out. Her writing, unapologetically Indian, pulses with the colors and rhythms of her culture, deftly blending humor and authenticity. LA Weekly spotlighted my unique approach to weaving Indian humor and culture into the American tapestry, celebrating the innovative narrative of Operation Mom. Read the LA Weekly Article here.
In her previous life, Reenita was a journalist, editor, and writer for platforms like National Geographic Kids, Disney India, Cartoon Network Asia, the New York Times, CNN, Radio Television Hong Kong, and Bloomberg. Her awards and accolades include the Eric Hoffer Book Award, IndieReader Discovery Award, Santa Barbara International Screenplay Award, Script2Comic, Launchpad, and Emerging Screenwriters awards, and second round consideration (OPERATION MOM) for the Sundance Institute Development Slate. No one-trick pony though, she’s the brains behind not one but two rib-tickling podcasts: the ‘True Fiction Project’ (where reality takes a hilarious nosedive into the scripted world) and ‘Shadow Realm’ (a magical portal to riveting narrative fiction).
Reenita has honed her screenwriting skills through topnotch programs like Writers’ Bootcamp and Roadmap Writers, so you know she means business. She has optioned her book, ’Ace Of Blades,’ and her screenplay, SHADOW REALM. Brace yourself for her upcoming books, ‘Festival of Lights’ published by HarperCollins and ‘Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh’ published by Indignor Press, coming soon to a bookshelf near you! Dive headfirst into her world fantastical tales, and laugh-out-loud moments at http://www.reenita.com. And, don’t forget your bug spray!
Blog Tour: Take Some Tahini: Real Werewolves Don’t Eat Meat Book 6 by Karenna Colcroft + Excerpt
Karenna Colcroft has a new MM paranormal romance out, Real Werewolves Don’t Eat Meat book six: Tahe Some Tahini. And there’s a giveaway.
Tobias Rogan never wanted to be a leader. But here he is, the Anax of the United States, ruler of all werewolves in the country. Only two weeks after winning the rank in a challenge fight against his senile predecessor, Tobias and his mate Kyle are still adjusting to their new reality when a frantic call alerts Tobias to the massacre of nearly half the wolves in a pack in North Dakota–including the pack’s Alpha and Beta.
An investigation reveals that the wolves responsible for the attack are from Canada. Tobias reaches out to Silas Creighton, Anax of Canada, and finds someone like-minded in wanting peace between the wolves of the two countries. At Silas’s invitation, Tobias and his mate Kyle, along with their new guard Quinn Boucher, sole survivor of the North Dakota massacre, travel to Nova Scotia to put an end to the conflict between the American and Canadian werewolves. But not all wolves are interested in peace–and not all want Tobias to survive the trip.
Warnings: violence, gun violence, discussion of past sexual abuse, homophobia
About the Series
Kyle Slidell didn’t move to Boston expecting to be changed into a werewolf. But that’s what happened. He can’t control whether he shifts at the full moon, but he can damn sure continue being vegan–even in wolf form.
Tobias Rogan, Alpha of Boston North Pack, never expected to fall in love with anyone, let alone a man. A male Alpha is not supposed to have a male partner. But when he meets Kyle, he’s immediately attracted. And after Kyle is changed, Tobias realizes the truth: Kyle is not only his partner, but his mate.
The werewolf world isn’t a simple place, and Kyle and Tobias are thrown into the middle of conflict within and among the packs of the United States–a conflict that extends all the way to the top of the werewolf hierarchy. Can they and their love survive what they face?
Amazon
Giveaway
Karenna 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/b60e8d47313/?
Excerpt
I debated knocking and decided to just try the doorknob. Kyle had better hearing than the rest of us. He knew I was here. If he didn’t want me to enter the apartment, he would have locked the door.
He hadn’t. The knob turned easily, and I pushed the door open and entered the living room that had been mine for decades.
The light in the room was off, but the kitchen light was on. I set down my bag and walked slowly into the other room. And there, I found my mate.
Seeing Kyle sitting there, at the same table in the same apartment where our relationship had grown, felt like a knife in my heart. I’d found him. But the way he looked at me almost made me wish I hadn’t. I’d never seen such pain and anger in his eyes.
His eyes mirrored my own emotions. Pain at how he’d left me, not a word to me, not even speaking to me when I reached out. Rage at being abandoned by the one person who had sworn never to do that.
I didn’t know whether to hug him or beat the shit out of him. I did neither, just stood in the doorway, fists clenched, waiting for him to fucking say something so I could.
“Hey,” he said.
“Hey.” I went toward the other chair but stopped. If I got too close to him, I might lunge across the table and strangle him. I closed my eyes just long enough to let an image of the ocean form. It didn’t calm me as much as usual, but at least it washed away the urge to hurt Kyle for hurting me. Which was good. I would never hurt Kyle.
I had before. I hadn’t meant to, but I had. And I’d sworn I never would again.
I took a deep breath and opened my eyes. “You’re here.”
“And the sky is blue, grass is green, and werewolves have fur.” He folded his arms. “You found me. Now what?”
His tone was completely flat. No anger, which would have been a good sign if he’d shown any other emotion. But there was nothing. He didn’t want me there. I could feel that through our bond, which was actually a good sign. The bond was still intact. But the way he spoke, the way he looked at me, sent my temper on the upswing again. How fucking dare he be a sarcastic asshole after what he’d done to me?
I gritted my teeth and forced another long, slow breath. “We talk. You tell me why you left, and we decide if we can fix it.”
“And if we can’t?”
“Then at least we talked to each other!” My voice rose, and I didn’t give a shit, even though Kirk could hear and probably everyone in the other two buildings could as well. “You just took off, Kyle. You didn’t say a damn thing, just took off. I was worried.” My eyes watered, and I blinked a few times as my anger ebbed. “I love you.”
“You have a weird way of showing it.” He sighed. “Sit down, would you? Unless you’re trying some Anax intimidation tactic on me.”
“I’m not.” I sat and leaned my elbows on the table. “How could you do that? How could you just leave without saying a fucking word?”
“I didn’t know what to say. You would have told me not to go. And I wouldn’t have gone. And I would have kept dealing with all that shit.”
“What shit?”
“You know.” He waved. “I’m a weakness for you. I shouldn’t exist or whatever. Those assholes back in California.”
“So you fucking walked out on me because of them?” I was so furious I was shaking. “You left as soon as I was gone. You knew you were going. You were gone by the time I called you, and you didn’t say a goddamn word. How could you do that?”
“I should have.” This time, emotion filled his tone. “I’m sorry, Tobias. I just…I needed to get the fuck out of there. And I knew you would have told me not to go. I didn’t want to do this.”
“Do what?”
“This.” He gestured toward me. “Argue. Process our feelings. I just wanted to get away from the homophobes and the memories. Living in that house…I’m guessing you have some decent memories of the place. You went there for years for the national gatherings. A couple weeks ago was my first time being there, and I spent most of the gathering in a goddamn cage, Tobias.”
I felt like he had jammed a blade into my heart. Involuntarily, I took a step back. How had I not realized? I knew all too well what trauma could do, but I hadn’t even considered how Kyle must feel waking up every single day in the place where he’d been dragged away from me and locked in a tiny basement cell.
Author Bio
Karenna Colcroft lives just north of Boston, Massachusetts, and has been in love with the city since childhood, though she has yet to encounter any werewolves, vampires, or other paranormal beings in her travels. At least none that she knows of.
Karenna is a polyamorous, nonbinary human who lives in Massachusetts with her husband. She also has two adult children and three “bonus” kids, four grandchildren, and two and a half cats. (Half in terms of time the cat lives with her, not in terms of the cat itself…)
Author Website: https://karennacolcroft.com
Author Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/kimramseywinkler
Author Facebook (Author Page): https://www.facebook.com/karennacolcroft
Author Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karenna-Colcroft/author/B0031HAOUK
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EXCERPT
I debated knocking and decided to just try the doorknob. Kyle had better hearing than the rest of us. He knew I was here. If he didn’t want me to enter the apartment, he would have locked the door.
He hadn’t. The knob turned easily, and I pushed the door open and entered the living room that had been mine for decades.
The light in the room was off, but the kitchen light was on. I set down my bag and walked slowly into the other room. And there, I found my mate.
Seeing Kyle sitting there, at the same table in the same apartment where our relationship had grown, felt like a knife in my heart. I’d found him. But the way he looked at me almost made me wish I hadn’t. I’d never seen such pain and anger in his eyes.
His eyes mirrored my own emotions. Pain at how he’d left me, not a word to me, not even speaking to me when I reached out. Rage at being abandoned by the one person who had sworn never to do that.
I didn’t know whether to hug him or beat the shit out of him. I did neither, just stood in the doorway, fists clenched, waiting for him to fucking say something so I could.
“Hey,” he said.
“Hey.” I went toward the other chair but stopped. If I got too close to him, I might lunge across the table and strangle him. I closed my eyes just long enough to let an image of the ocean form. It didn’t calm me as much as usual, but at least it washed away the urge to hurt Kyle for hurting me. Which was good. I would never hurt Kyle.
I had before. I hadn’t meant to, but I had. And I’d sworn I never would again.
I took a deep breath and opened my eyes. “You’re here.”
“And the sky is blue, grass is green, and werewolves have fur.” He folded his arms. “You found me. Now what?”
His tone was completely flat. No anger, which would have been a good sign if he’d shown any other emotion. But there was nothing. He didn’t want me there. I could feel that through our bond, which was actually a good sign. The bond was still intact. But the way he spoke, the way he looked at me, sent my temper on the upswing again. How fucking dare he be so disrespectful after what he’d done to me?
I gritted my teeth and forced another long, slow breath. “We talk. You tell me why you left, and we decide if we can fix it.”
“And if we can’t?”
“Then at least we talked to each other!” My voice rose, and I didn’t give a shit, even though Kirk could hear and probably everyone in the other two buildings could as well. “You just took off, Kyle. You didn’t say a damn thing, just took off. I was worried.” My eyes watered, and I blinked a few times as my anger ebbed. “I love you.”
“You have a weird way of showing it.” He sighed. “Sit down, would you? Unless you’re trying some Anax intimidation tactic on me.”
“I’m not.” I sat and leaned my elbows on the table. “How could you do that? How could you just leave without saying a fucking word?”
“I didn’t know what to say. You would have told me not to go. And I wouldn’t have gone. And I would have kept dealing with all that shit.”
“What shit?”
“You know.” He waved. “I’m a weakness for you. I shouldn’t exist or whatever. Those fucknuggets back in California.”
“So you fucking walked out on me because of them?” I was so furious I was shaking. “You left as soon as I was gone. You knew you were going. You were gone by the time I called you, and you didn’t say a goddamn word. How could you do that?”
“I should have.” This time, emotion filled his tone. “I’m sorry, Tobias. I just…I needed to get the fuck out of there. And I knew you would have told me not to go. I didn’t want to do this.”
“Do what?”
“This.” He gestured toward me. “Argue. Process our feelings. I just wanted to get away from the homophobes and the memories. Living in that house…I’m guessing you have some decent memories of the place. You went there for years for the national gatherings. A couple weeks ago was my first time being there, and I spent most of the gathering in a goddamn cage, Tobias.”
Patience by Jaire Sims Review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young man must navigate his first relationship and a new job in author Jaire Sims LGBTQ adult romance novel, “Patience”.
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The Synopsis
After surviving a harrowing high school attack and making a life for himself, Carver Goodman is ready to move forward and find love. Using his photography skills, he uploads pictures of himself to a dating site and waits patiently for someone worth pursuing to contact him.
Ricardo Ramirez, Ricky to his friends, has a secret he’s kept from everyone, but when he sees a similarity between his past and Carver’s, he feels he must confess. After having dated Carver for months, he admits his transgression.
Will Carver be able to overcome Ricky’s sordid past, or will Carver’s past interfere with his future?
The Review
This was an emotional and compelling read. The exploration of Carver as a young adult and making his mark on the world was so fascinating to get lost in. The relatability of the character, from both a sexuality perspective and a personality perspective, will resonate with so many readers, and the thoughtful use of imagery brought the city of Chicago to life all around the characters in this narrative.
The emotional journey of Carver and Ricardo was truly the heart of the story. The physical and emotional connection they share as their journey evolves, and the shocking revelations of Ricardo’s past challenges Carver in ways he never expected. The romance gets very adult in its delivery, and the personal nature of Carve as a character, from his challenging past and his experiences on the Autism spectrum, to the first romance as a gay man and exploring what that means to him made this story so engaging.
The Verdict
Thoughtful, refreshing, and memorable, author Jaire Sims’s “Patience” is a must-read novel. The rich character dynamics and notes of growth and hope that the author evokes throughout this book will leave readers eager for more from this amazing writer. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Jaire Malik Sims was born and raised on the far southwest side of Chicago. Even at a young age, Jaire was not known for his talkative behavior. He was able to make casual friends in elementary school and high school, but he never succeeded in making those friendships close or intimate.
Sims strived to get good grades and often made the Honor List in elementary school. He was a straight “A” student in high school and became class valedictorian.
Although Sims excelled at grades in high school, his difficulty with socializing began to manifest as a teenager. Due to his quiet nature and frequent experiences with social anxiety, Jaire was an easy target to teasing and bullying during his adolescence. His difficulties with socializing during his college years subsequently led him to see a clinical professional counselor and take a mental health assessment. While twenty-one, and a junior in college, Jaire was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome. A year later, he graduated from Monmouth College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies.
Jaire has restricted interests, which makes it difficult for him to have and maintain casual conversations with people. He developed an interest in all things Disney in high school and still enjoys talking about his favorite Disney films and songs.
Educators often told Sims that he had strong writing skills. This encouragement played a part in motivating him to write his first novel, Getting By. His debut novel was named a finalist in the African American (Fiction) category in the Next Generation Indie Book Awards.
Jaire hopes his book will reach certain demographics who share commonalities with him and perhaps inspire them to write their own stories while taking inspirations from their life experiences.
Guest Blog Post: What Inspires Me by Anoop Judge
Inspiration is a fascinating phenomenon. It strikes at unexpected moments, often when I least expect it, (sometimes even in the shower) and transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.
1. The Power of Stories
Every story holds a universe within it. From classic literature to contemporary novels, the power of storytelling has always captivated me. I remember being enchanted by the stories written by Enid Blyton and Nancy Drew I read as a child in New Delhi, India. These stories sparked my imagination and planted the seeds for my own writing journey. Whether it’s a book, a movie, or a personal anecdote, stories inspire me to create narratives that resonate with others.
2. Cooking
This might be an odd one, but hear me out. Cooking a dish or a meal has serious similarities to writing. You need to have a plan. If you don’t, you need to figure one out, either through experience (like burned curries) or through a template or a recipe. You’ve got to prep your ingredients. Sometimes making other side dishes, sauces, or seasonings. Then you have to put it in the oven and cook it just right. That same creative space that allows you to cook also bakes your creative ideas. Yum. “What’s for dinner?” “How about a little drama with a side of cliffhanger sauce?”
3. The World Around Me
Nature, with its boundless beauty and unpredictability, is a constant muse. A walk in the park, the sound of the ocean, or the changing seasons can ignite a spark of creativity. Similarly, urban landscapes, with their vibrant energy and diverse cultures, offer endless inspiration.
4. Art and Music
Art and music are powerful sources of inspiration. A painting can evoke a multitude of emotions, while a song can transport me to a different time and place. They provide a sensory experience that often translates into my writing. The works of great artists and musicians remind me of the limitless possibilities of creative expression. The old cliché that a picture is worth a thousand words is amplified tenfold. Imagine the wraparound stories of some of the greatest paintings and sculptures. Imagining these can be a great exercise. On the flip side? Drawing, painting, and sculpting again access a creative part of the brain that also can contain our writing thoughts. If you think of your mind like a muscle, it’s good to flex this area in other disciplines, as well, because they’re all ultimately connected
5. Teaching and Mentorship
Teaching creative writing has been incredibly inspiring. Whether at The Writers Grotto in San Francisco, Stanford University, or at Book Passage, interacting with students and seeing their growth and passion for writing has been a profound source of motivation. Mentorship programs, like The Write Team Mentorship, have also reinforced my belief in the power of guidance and community in fostering creativity.
6. My Cultural Heritage
My cultural heritage is a cornerstone of my inspiration. The rich traditions, languages, and history of India provide a deep well of material for my writing. My novels, such as ‘The Awakening of Meena Rawat’ and ‘Mercy and Grace,’ often draw from my cultural roots, blending them with contemporary themes to create stories that are both unique and universal.
Inspiration is everywhere if we choose to see it. It’s in the stories we hear, the experiences we live, and the people we meet. For me, it’s a continuous journey of discovery, one that I cherish deeply as I navigate the world of writing.
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Book Summary
Lena Sharma is a successful San Francisco restaurateur. An immigrant, she’s cultivated an image of
conservatism and tradition in her close-knit Indian community. But when Lena’s carefully constructed
world begins to crumble, her ties to her daughter, Maya, and son, Sameer—raised in thoroughly modern
California—slip further away.
Maya, divorced once, becomes engaged to a man twelve years her junior: Veer Kapoor, the son of
Lena’s longtime friend. Immediately, Maya feels her mother’s disgrace and the judgment of an insular
society she was born into but never chose, while Lena’s cherished friendship frays. Meanwhile, Maya’s
younger brother, Sameer, struggles with an addiction that reaches a devastating and very public turning
point, upending his already tenuous future.
As the mother, daughter, and son are compromised by tragedy, secrets, and misconceptions, they each
must determine what it will take to rebuild their bonds and salvage what’s left of their family.
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Print length: 335 pages
Purchase a copy of No Ordinary Thursday on
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/No-Ordinary-Thursday-Anoop-Judge/dp/1542037751/
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/no-ordinary-thursday-anoop-judge/1140485124.
Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/p/books/no-ordinary-thursday-anoop-judge/17746161
You can also add this to your GoodReads reading list
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61214404-no-ordinary-thursday
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About the Author
Born and raised in New Delhi, Anoop is the author of four novels, The Rummy Club which won the
2015 Beverly Hills Book Award, The Awakening of Meena Rawat, an excerpt of which was nominated for
the 2019 Pushcart Prize, No Ordinary Thursday, and Mercy and Grace.
Her essays and short stories have appeared in Green Hills Literary Lantern, Rigorous Journal, Lumiere
Review, DoubleBack Review, and the Ornament anthology, among others.
Anoop calls herself a “recovering litigator”—she worked in state and federal courts for many years
before she replaced legal briefs with fictional tales. She holds an MFA from St. Mary’s College of
California and was the recipient of the 2021 Advisory Board Award and the 2023 Alumni Scholarship.
She lives in Pleasanton, California, with her husband, and is the mother of two admirable young adults.
You can follow the author at:
Website: https://anoopjudge.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judgeanoop/?hl=en
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anoop-ahuja-judge-94396743/
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Blog Tour Calendar
June 17th @ The Muffin
Join us as we celebrate the launch of Anoop Judge’s book No Ordinary Thursday. Read an interview with
the author and enter to win a copy of her book.
https://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com
June 19th @ Writer Advice
Novelist Anoop Judge stops by with a guest post about Ways To Begin a Story.
https://www.writeradvice.com
June 21st @ A Wonderful World of Words
Let’s have some fun with a book giveaway and a guest post from Anoop Judge tracing her journey
through four novels.
https://awonderfulworldofwordsa.blogspot.com/
June 22nd @ A Storybook World
Make an addition to your TBR pile with this spotlight on No Ordinary Thursday.
https://www.astorybookworld.com/
June 24th @ My Beauty My Books
Author Anoop Judge visits with advice to her twenty year old self and a chance to win a copy of her
novel No Ordinary Thursday.
mybeautymybooks.com
June 25th @ Words by Webb
Read a review of No Ordinary Thursday at Words by Webb/
https://www.jodiwebbwriter.com/blog
June 28th @ What Is this Book About
Stop by for a spotlight on a new book for a new month: No Ordinary Thursday by Anoop
Judge.
http://www.whatisthatbookabout.com
June 30th @ Choices
Anoop Judges gives readers a peek at her writing life with today’s guest post.
http://madelinesharples.com
July 2nd @ Boys’ Mom Reads
Karen shares her review of No Ordinary Thursday, a novel of love, friendship and family.
karensiddall.wordpress.com
July 3rd @ The Faerie Review
Want to enjoy the July 4th holiday with a great book? The Faerie Review is spotlighting No Ordinary
Thursday by Anoop Judge.
https://www.thefaeriereview.com/
July 5th @ StoreyBook Reviews
Anoop Judge shares her thoughts on Crafting Dialogue: How Can You Best Give Voice to Your
Characters?
https://www.storeybookreviews.com
July 9th @ Word Magic
Fiona welcomes novelist Anoop Judge sharing a few things you didn’t know about her.
https://fionaingramauthor.blogspot.com/
July 11th @ Knotty Needle
Read a review of No Ordinary Thursday, a novel about family and friendship.
http://knottyneedle.blogspot.com/
July 12th @ Author Anthony Avina
Pop by the blog of Author Anthony Avina for a guest post about what inspires Anoop Judge.
https://authoranthonyavinablog.wordpress.com/
July 17th @ Chapter Break
Ready to head for the hammock (or your favorite reading spot) with an engrossing summer read? Learn
more about No Ordinary Thursday and author Anoop Judge.
https://chapterbreak.net/
July 20th @ Seaside Book Nook
Jilleen shares her thoughts on No Ordinary Thursday and a guest post on first memories from the author
Anoop Judge.
http://www.seasidebooknook.com/
Cul-De-Sac by Liz Crowe Review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinons are my own.
A young couple become enamored with their new dream home and the community they find themselves in, only to discover a web of lies and deceit behind the walls of their home in author Liz Crowe’s “Cul-De-Sac”.
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The Synopsis
Welcome to Connelly Court. A secluded, old money neighborhood, harboring a web of desires and deceit behind pristine facades and manicured lawns, where the lives of a group of neighbors, bound by their shared secrets and unconventional lifestyle, are about to unravel.
Michael and Amelia Ross move into their dream home, and get drawn into the seductive allure. But their house once belonged to a family whose lives were seemingly ruined by their participation, which leads Amelia to question everything about her new-found friends. Suspicions run rampant as the close-knit group turns on each other. Lies, betrayals, and hidden agendas are revealed, ripping apart the fabric that once bound the group together.
“Cul-de-Sac” is a dark tale of marriage, friendship, desire, and betrayal, where nothing is as it seems, and the truth may be more shocking than anyone could have imagined. Discover the twisted secrets of Connelly Court in this chilling domestic suspense novel that will leave you questioning just how well you truly know—or should know—your neighbors.
The Review
This was a powerful and mesmerizing suburban thriller. The author’s tension and atmosphere made the reader feel transported, a fly on the wall as the characters drew further into the complex world of seduction and power that this neighborhood had crafted for itself. The mystery behind the former occupants of the protagonists’s home and the use of multiple points of view throughout the book allowed the reader to peel back each layer of intrigue at a good pace.
Character development added to the mystery surrounding this novel and helped elevate the exploration of what happens behind closed doors. The picturesque, quiet suburb that the novel initially portrays, as well as the protagonists who come across as the average American family with a clear picture of their future, all come through early in the novel, and yet the seduction parties and ways in which the characters grow and falter showcase the hidden nature of what is the classic “perfect American dream.”
The Verdict
Thrilling, shocking, and engaging author Liz Crowe’s “Cul-de-Sac” is a must-read thriller. The exploration of the American suburb and how lies and power dynamics can work in any setting, even a quiet American cul-de-sac, allowed the shocking twists and turns to hit the reader with a punch that will stay with them long after the book ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Liz Crowe is a Kentucky native and graduate of the University of Louisville living in South Carolina. She’s spent her time as a three-continent expat trailing spouse, mom of three, real estate agent, brewery owner and bar manager, and is currently a digital marketing and fundraising consultant, in addition to being an award-winning author.
The Liz Crowe backlist has something for any reader seeking complex storylines with humor and complete casts of characters that will delight and linger in the imagination long after the book is finished.
Her favorite things to do when she’s not scrolling social media for cute animal videos is walk her dogs, cuddle her cats, and watch her favorite sports teams while scrolling social media for cute animal videos.
Website: https://lizcrowe.com/
Facebook: @lizcroweauthor
Instagram: @lizcroweauthor
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ORHrxk
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205844908-cul-de-sac
Hockey Wars 15: Graduation by Sam Lawrence & Ben Jackson Review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
The kids from Dakota must tackle the emotional end of their middle school years and face an uncertain future in authors Sam Lawrence and Ben Jackson’s “Hockey Wars 15: Graduation”.
The Synopsis
It’s the final days of middle school for the Dakota kids from the Hurricanes and the Lightning.
As the end of their middle school years together draws ever closer, there are mixed emotions as the kids face an uncertain future together in high school.
The final weeks of middle school are a whirlwind of emotions, events, and preparing for the big day, but one thing is for sure, these kids are tackling it together as only best friends and teammates could.
Is this the end for the kids from Dakota, or is this just the beginning of an exciting new adventure?
You’ll need to read Hockey Wars 15 to find out!
The Review
This was such a heartfelt and engaging story. For adult readers, the sense of nostalgia and memory that the story brings to life is incredible, and young readers will be able to identify with the fears, anxiety, joy, and hope that these young school years can bring. The authenticity of the emotional journey that these characters go on is an instant draw for readers.
The themes of friendship, growth, and human connection are firmly woven into this story. The closeness of Millie and Cameron, in particular, will resonate with young readers. Close friends can often turn into confusing yet fearful and thrilling times, and the need to preserve friendships can be a powerful and consuming feeling.
The Verdict
Memorable, nostalgic, and engaging authors Sam Lawrence and Ben Jackson’s “Hockey Wars 15: Graduation” is a must-read middle-grade book. The creativity and heart that the authors poured into this book and the open-ended bring this series to an emotional close and leave room for the possible return of these beloved characters in the future. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Authors
Sam Lawrence was born in Ontario, Canada, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for almost a decade. Sam is married to Ben Jackson, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada.
Together, Sam and Ben have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart and Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books. In addition, they have numerous publications in progress, so stay tuned for information on those by following this page and connecting with them on Facebook, Goodreads, or Instagram.
Sam owns a company called Indie Publishing Group Inc which helps Canadian authors self-publish their books. Ben manages a company called Author Services Australia, which specializes in assisting Australian indie authors.
Remember, if you enjoyed one of their books, please leave a review! As indie authors, it really helps out, and it’s 100% free and will only take a few minutes of your time.
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/BenandSamAuthors/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/authorsbenandsam/
Website – http://www.benandsamauthors.com/
Ben Jackson was born in Tasmania, Australia, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for almost a decade. Ben is married to Sam Lawrence, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada.
Together, Ben and Sam have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart and Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books. In addition, they have numerous publications in progress, so stay tuned for information on those by following this page and connecting with them on Facebook, Goodreads, or Instagram.
Ben manages a company called Author Services Australia to help Australian authors self-publish their books. Sam manages a company called Indie Publishing Group, which specializes in assisting Canadian indie authors.
Remember, if you enjoyed one of their books, please leave a review! As indie authors, it really helps out, and it’s 100% free and will only take a few minutes of your time.
Song of Howls (Sisters of Song 2) by M.D. Grimm Interview + Blog Tour
Good day lovely readers! I’m M.D. Grimm, and I want to thank you for joining me to promote my newest release, Song of Howls (Sisters of Song 2). This is the second and final book in a duology about two sisters, their adventures, growth, and romances with magical beings. This story is about Alaiya, the younger sister, and her unexpected romance with Talla, a she-wolf alpha. This is my first FF romance, and I really enjoyed writing a very woman-centered story. I’ve spoken before about my concern that there aren’t enough positive depictions of relationships between women, whether that be friendship, romance, mentorship, or all of the above. Due to that, it was a treat that the real movers-and-shakers in this story are three women.
So, let’s get to the questions, shall we?
Q1: How long have you been writing?
A1: I hit my ten-year pubiversary in 2022, so going on 12 years now. I am incredibly thankful and amazed that I’ve managed to continue this crazy ride. Although only now do I feel like I’ve hit my stride. I’m focusing more on single titles and moving away from series. It’s interesting that my muse has shifted since she started off so darn insistent on turning everything into a series.
Q2: Are there underrepresented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.
A2: The main protagonists featured in the duology are Black sisters. Venya’s story was in Song of Flames, and Alaiya’s is in Song of Howls. There isn’t enough representation of non-white folks in speculative fiction books, and I wanted to do my part in changing that. Also, Alaiya is a lesbian, and finds her HEA with Talla, her she-wolf alpha mate. I firmly believe in portraying all the different ways love can manifest and blossom between individuals. Venya ended up with two dragons, who could be considered bisexual or maybe even pansexual, if we label them with human terms. I’m really proud of what I managed to accomplish with these two stories, and I might do similar projects in the future. We shall see.
Q3: If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?
A3: Prepare to spend more than half your time as an author marketing your books. Oh, and maybe don’t bite off so much with all those series! Spread them out and think single titles. Also, don’t put all your eggs in one basket when it comes to publishers. Not everyone can be trusted to follow their own contracts. Ugh… and one other thing! Don’t expect your books to pay for themselves, you will spend more money than you make… because good cover artists and editors aren’t cheap.
Q4: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
A4: With both this book and Song of Flames, I wanted to depict a healthy and loving relationship between sisters. They are friends and confidants, and they rely on each other for safety and emotional support since, in their early years, Venya and Alaiya only had each other due to their parents’ emotional abuse. The core of these stories is their friendship as they navigate new relationships and the new chapter in their lives. Along with this is Song of Howls being a very women-centered story, which was not a conscious decision, but a happy result of strong women leads.
Q5: What was the hardest part of writing this book?
A5: While Venya’s story came to me fully formed, Alaiya’s took a bit more time to simmer. Her struggles are different, and her personality is markedly different from her sister’s. Couple that with this being my first FF romance, and the dynamics I’m accustomed to were no longer available. But I enjoyed watching her and Talla find each other, and the more time I spent with the story, the more I molded and shaped it into something really special. So, the hardest part? All of it. But worth every second.
So if you want two fantasy stories involving two strong, fierce, vulnerable, loving, and nurturing Black women who define their own world, please check out Song of Flames and Song of Howls!
If you want more shifter action, please check out my on-going series “The Shifter Chronicles” (contemporary shifters, linked stories but with a different couple each book), as well as On Wings of Passion and On Wings of Thunder (for more dragon and angel spice!).
If fantasy is your jam, please consider “The Stones of Power” on-going series, about an angsty, anti-hero mage and his supportive, long-suffering mate. I also have A Priest, a Plague, and a Prophecy, a single title about Elias, an ace temple priest, and Gurrkk, the fierce, cinnamon-role orc who adores him. My trilogy “A Warrior’s Redemption” also packs a punch with action, danger, love, friendship, and a feisty horse that keeps everyone in line (seriously, Brutus is a gem!).
As for current and future projects, I’m still working on the next “The Stones of Power” book, Opal: Master and Puppet, and I’m almost finished with a single title MMF fantasy story. Later this year I hope to write On Wings of Shadow, and a short story collection from the “A Warrior’s Redemption” universe (yes, there will be a story from Brutus’s POV).
Until next time. May dragons guard your dreams,
M.D. Grimm
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M.D. Grimm has a new FF fantasy romance out, Sisters of Song book 2: Song of Howls. And there’s a giveaway!
As Alaiya reclaims her life, she never intended to capture the heart of a she-wolf.
Alaiya was trained by her parents to be the perfect wife. Due to her beauty, they knew they could entice a wealthy man to wed her and raise their status. She was a trophy, a prize, brought out to entertain like an obedient dog. Their efforts were rewarded when Lord Salazem claimed her to become his next wife, intent on adding her to his harem. But when two mighty dragons and her sister save her, Alaiya is given a new chance at life.
Determined to stand on her own and discover who she truly is, Alaiya has little interest in relationships. Even when she meets the silver-haired Talla, Alaiya pushes down her desire, unwilling to be caged again.
Talla is the alpha of her large wolf pack in the Firestar Mountains and knows Alaiya is her mate. She is entranced by Alaiya’s strength, courage, and loyalty, and is determined to prove herself as a worthy mate. But first she must overcome Alaiya’s barriers, which might prove to be her greatest challenge.
As Alaiya and her sister adjust to their new lives, they must secure their home from those who would take it from them. Including their parents. As Alaiya struggles to stand on her own, she learns that true strength lies in letting others stand beside her.
ABOUT THE SERIES
Venya and Alaiya are sisters born to greedy and selfish parents. One is neglected and the other exploited. Despite this–or because of it–they cling to each other, best friends as well as family. They find freedom in the mountain range beyond their city of birth… as well as unexpected chances at love with extraordinary beings.
Forging a new future is never easy, but with their unbreakable bond, and lovers and allies at their side, the impossible just might be attainable.
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Giveaway
M.D. is giving away a $10 Amazon gift card with this tour:
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Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d47312/?
Excerpt
For a moment, Alaiya forgot her own troubles and lived in the moment. She’d seen many such beautiful places in the Firestar Mountains but this one beat them all.
Wolves watched them descend, and Alaiya tried not to cower under their piercing stares. The valley was filled with adults, adolescents, and pups. No one approached them, and she had a feeling something significant was happening. Though she couldn’t determine what it was.
The mask she’d learned to wear as a child, that of societal pleasantries, slipped on as they stepped off the trail. Alaiya slid off Talla’s back and inclined her head to those nearby.
“Good evening. I am Alaiya. Thank you for watching over my sister, and for welcoming us into your home. We are in your debt.”
A few of the pups ran up as several adults approached. Tails were tucked, heads were down. Talla stayed beside her, watching them but also glancing at her. If Alaiya allowed herself to indulge in fantasy, she would have sworn she saw pride in Talla’s bright gaze.
Of course she stroked the puppies and offered the adults her hands to sniff. Feeling welcomed and trying not to be overwhelmed, Alaiya resisted reliving the recent dangers again. This was an extraordinary moment that shouldn’t be tarnished by the past. If spending her entire life under the thumb of her parents had taught her anything, it was to savor the good and beautiful for as long as possible.
When Alaiya’s stomach grumbled, Talla nudged the others away and jerked her head, wanting her to follow. Clearly, she was the alpha. Or one of the alphas. Didn’t wolf packs usually have a male and a female leader?
Alaiya tried to decipher if any of the others gave off the alpha vibe but she didn’t sense anything. Talla took her to a pile of fruit that appeared to have been recently picked and washed. There were apples, oranges, and grapes. When she hesitated, Talla nudged her forward lightly. She took a grape, and Talla’s mouth dropped open in a lupine grin.
Alaiya couldn’t resist smiling a little. “Thank you.”
Talla huffed and trotted off. Alaiya sat next to the fruit and munched. She curled into herself, feeling a bit chilled. Her clothes had seen better days, they were dirty and torn. She mourned the state of them. They were ones she’d found in the palace, and she liked the style. She was grateful for the variety of clothing for ladies in the palace, and since she was handy with needle and thread, it was a simple thing to make modifications as needed to fit her, and her sister’s, shapes better. Her parents had insisted she be adept at all manner of womanly tasks and pursuits, including how to sew her own clothing. She’d needed to be a prize catch after all.
She scowled at the memories.
The adult wolves left her alone, though a few pups crept closer, curious. She coaxed them nearer and ended up with four pups draped over her lap and cuddled at her sides. Their fluffy, warm bodies and playful squeaks calmed her. But despite her best efforts, recent events wouldn’t let her settle.
“What disturbs you?”
She jerked and looked up. Talla stood there, naked, hair like silver silk draped over her. Alaiya quickly turned away and cleared her throat. She flushed hot when Talla sat beside her. Though she didn’t touch her or draw closer, Alaiya felt her gaze like a touch. It itched. It burned.
“I… I’ve been through a lot.”
“I gathered that from what Venya said. Do you wish to speak about it?”
“No.”
Talla nodded and when one of the pups nuzzled her hand, she plucked him up and rubbed her face against his. Alaiya softened at the adoration.
“Is he yours?”
Talla smiled. “No. All my pups are grown with pups of their own. I have no desire for more.”
Alaiya frowned. “How old…? Never mind.”
Rude. Very rude question. All those weeks away from society had made her social skills rusty. She used to be far better at small talk and charming all she met.
Talla chuckled. The sound danced pleasantly along Alaiya’s skin. Damn.
“We age differently than humans. Though I can still have children, I have chosen to stop. Let the younger, stronger of my pack produce the next generations. This way, I get to enjoy the pups with little burden.”
So saying, she rubbed the pup’s tummy, and he wiggled with delight.
Alaiya grinned.
“Make sure to drink the water from the falls. It will cleanse you and heal you of any injuries or discomforts.”
“How?”
“This place was blessed by the gods long ago. A hint of their divinity remains.”
Their gazes met and held. Alaiya was struck with the directness of Talla’s stare. She exuded calm and confidence, a steadfastness that encouraged trust and dependency.
And that was a problem. Alaiya needed to stand on her own. She’d obeyed her parents for most of her life. Then she’d depended on Venya to rescue her. But now she had the freedom to be whoever she wanted to be. And she had no clue who that was. So she needed to find out and having a liaison with anyone—even this sexy she-wolf—was not part of the plan.
“That’s amazing. I wouldn’t have believed that a month ago. But after meeting the dragons and… This is a good place to live.”
“Yes. These mountains are sacred and must be protected.”
Alaiya sighed. “And our presence brings danger. If my parents hadn’t sold me to that no good—”
“‘Sold’?” Talla’s voice turned low and menacing.
Author Bio
M.D. Grimm has wanted to write stories since second grade (kind of young to make life decisions, but whatever) and nothing has changed since then (well, plenty of things actually, but not that!). Thankfully, she has indulgent parents who let her dream, but also made sure she understood she’d need a steady job to pay the bills (they never let her forget it!).
After graduating from the University of Oregon and majoring in English, (let’s be honest: useless degree, what else was she going to do with it?) she started on her writing career and couldn’t be happier. Working by day and writing by night (or any spare time she can carve out), she enjoys embarking on romantic quests and daring adventures (living vicariously, you could say) and creating characters that always triumph against the villain, (or else what’s the point?) finding their soul mate in the process.
Author Website: https://www.mdgrimmwrites.com
Author Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/mdgrimmwrites
Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdgrimmwrites
Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4574220.M_D_Grimm
Author Liminal Fiction (LimFic.com): https://www.limfic.com/mbm-book-author/m-d-grimm/
Author QueeRomance Ink: https://www.queeromanceink.com/mbm-book-author/m-d-grimm/
Author Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/M.D.-Grimm/e/B00I0KZMY6/
