I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young man who escapes the public execution of Irish Coal Miners for a conspiracy that never happened must contend with finding a home for his family while taking work from a local union leader who is also a local gangster in author Michael Dunn’s “Anywhere but Schuylkill”.
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The Synopsis
In 1877, twenty Irish coal miners hanged for a terrorist conspiracy that never occurred. Anywhere But Schuylkill is the story of one who escaped, Mike Doyle, a teenager struggling to find a new home for his family before his alcoholic uncle kills one of his siblings. So, he takes a job with a union leader, who’s also a gangster, while secretly courting his daughter. Now the gang leader, cops and rival gang all want him dead.
The Review
This was a brilliant coming-of-age historical fiction novel. The author does a perfect job of capturing the chilling realities of the era, from the brutal and bloody nature of life as a miner to the hardships of working-class Americans and immigrants and the freestyle nature of crime in small, rural towns. The imagery the author utilizes in their writing really brings the grime and visceral setting to life effortlessly in this narrative.
To me, the author’s exceptional detail in both the history and the character development made this a remarkable story. The breathtaking yet shocking imagery helps elevate the culture and history of that era and the protagonist’s struggle both with his family and the people he becomes involved with when looking to help support his family after the tragic loss of the head of their household. The truth of his loss, as well as the themes the author explores in this era, from the racism and addiction that was growing during this time to the corruption of big corporations against middle-class America, made this a compelling story.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and captivating author Michael Dunn’s “Anywhere but Schuylkill” is a must-read historical fiction meets coming-of-age story. The twists and turns in the narrative and the rich character dynamics at play here made this a remarkable story to get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Michael Dunn writes Working-Class Fiction from the Not So Gilded Age. “Anywhere But Schuylkill,” is the first in his Great Upheaval trilogy. A lifelong union activist, he has always been drawn to stories of the past, particularly those of regular working people, struggling to make a better life for themselves and their families. Stories most people do not know, or have forgotten, because history is written by the victors, the robber barons and plutocrats, not the workers and immigrants. Yet their stories are among the most compelling in America.
They resonate today because they are the stories of our own ancestors, because their passions and desires, struggles and tragedies, were so similar to our own. When Michael Dunn is not writing historical fiction, he teaches high school, and writes about labor history and culture. His labor history has been published in several online and print magazines:
Reform: The Trojan Horse Wheeling into Schools (Labor Notes 7/28/11); The dangers of a
California megaflood (World Socialist Website, 10/25/21); and The Modern School Movement
Walter Robinson has a new queer sci-fi book out (gay, lesbian), SVF book one: The Northern Route.
In the distant star cluster Messier 4, the vast and stagnant civilization of the Apeilous sits on the verge of its next great expansion. Several massive corporations have merged to start the Endeavor, the most far-reaching economic and humanitarian effort in history.
Vesta Amore leads a small team of private security specializing in the protection of whistleblowers and corporate defectors. She has no interest in the Endeavor until she is swept off her feet by the suave leader of the Fortuna Corp, an equal partner in the Endeavor. Balancing her altruism with the realities of power, Vesta joins the Fortuna as they work to establish a supply route along the contested northern border.
Cal Sunn is a career detective looking forward to retirement. When the Maressellya Corp backs out of joining the Endeavor, they hear rumors of a defector in their ranks and put Cal on the case. What starts as a simple assignment becomes a fight for survival as he works to untangle a shadowy conspiracy that threatens the Apeilous. With the Fortuna’s backing, he and his crew rush to uncover the plot.
Warnings: Combat violence, “off-screen” sexual assault, large scale loss of life
About the Series:
In the distant star cluster M4, the vast civilization of the Apeilous barrels through a geopolitically tumultuous era. The independent northern state of Tressel is upset by territory grabs orchestrated by the largest corporations of the Apeilous through a humanitarian operation known as the Endeavor.
Vesta Fortuna, once a lowly private security contractor, rose to power to lead the largest and most controversial state of the Apeilous: The State of Vesta Fortuna. The SVF series explores the rise and fall of Vesta as a state-maker, a wife, a mother, and ultimately an authoritarian leader. Shorter companion novels detail the origins of the people who rise to support or oppose Vesta:
Aelia, a refugee turned warrior turned politician who will stop at nothing to bring down SVF.
Kiton, a bright young detective keen to support SVF by rooting out corruption in its ranks.
Valentia, Vesta’s daughter and heir to the Fortuna family.
Augustus, Vesta’s son and the unlikely heart and soul of SVF.
Main character Vesta and her best friend Jak spend Act 3 forging ties between the Fortuna Corporation and the leadership of the independent planet Atayuma. Keen to make connections outside of the autocratic government, Vesta and Jak engage in a bit of old-fashioned diplomacy with group of mid-level army and navy personnel at the most popular bar in town. By this point in the story, Vesta and Jak have already made friends of several revolution-sympathizers in the armed forces.
Fun fact, the song in this excerpt was adapted with permission from the artist, Jason Webley!
Excerpt from Chapter 29, God Save the King:
Rau’s Taphouse
Capital City, Atayuma (ISY-AT)
Three musicians sat in the corner of the room belting out drinking songs on a tuba, a drum set, and an accordion. The accordionist sang loudly, yet his voice barely rose over the short beats of the instruments and the din of the bar.
Vesta and Jak sat at a table for six, joined by three captains from the Royal Navy. The sixth member of their gathering was Captain Ernesto of the army division Aline had selected for the coming monsoon. While Vesta had spent the fore of the evening chatting and getting to know them, her efforts were stymied by a raucous sing-along song about storms and angels. Then the music struck a somber tone.
The singer had his bandmates restart the intro, seemingly to get the crowd’s full attention. He sang the first verse softly.
“To the old, cracked screen,
Of my mother’s voice,
I still cry when I hear her sing.
The clock struck twelve,
The voice I love so well,
Was eaten up by the machine,
It was eaten up by the machine!”
Vesta wondered what exactly he meant by the machine. Maybe he’s talking about the mines. Every voice in the bar joined in the second verse.
“When the glass is full,
Drink up! Drink up!
This maybe the last time
We see this cup.
If angels wanted us sober,
They’d knock the glass over,
So while it is full, we drink up!”
Just as Vesta started to tap her toes to the beat, the drum and tuba quieted, and the individual taps on the accordion’s keyboard became clear. The singer glanced at her with a kind smile and sang softly, twisting the next verse into something unknown to the crowd.
“A toast to our guests,
A girl from the stars,
I hear the king courts her,
But all of this cheer,
And maybe the beer,
Has brought her back here,
So let’s help her drink the place dry,
Yes, let’s drink the damn place dry!”
The crowd cheered, and many raised their glasses toward Vesta before downing them. Jak slapped her on the shoulder with a little too much force, and the singer repeated the verse. A few people joined in. Then the rest shouted along for the last three lines. The standard verses followed, and the discordant singing continued. Vesta could only sit and sway to the beat. Jak had other ideas, rising to his feet to join a line of people dancing forward and backward with their arms on the shoulders of those next to them. Ernesto joined too, shouting with the dance line that now snaked clear across the length of the bar.
The music crescendoed upward, and the singing grew louder for the last verse.
“…knock the glass over.”
“So while it is full drink up!” the crowd screamed. People clapped, some tossed coins and banknotes at the band members, and others spilled their drinks as they tried to toast with their neighbors at the bar. The joyous frenetic atmosphere remained past the end of the music, but there was a clear shift in tone and a color shift for Vesta’s deeper vision. A calm contentment filled the minds of the patrons closing out their tabs and shuffling out the front door. Many said goodbye to their friends for the night, clasping each other’s hands in front of their chests with a tense shake. Eager to return to the palace, Vesta cut off Jak’s animated conversation with one of the navy captains, handed the bartender enough money to cover the table, and started toward the door.
A crowd of eager-eyed Atayumans stood outside Rau’s. They all bubbled with joy as Vesta stepped onto the street. She took Jak’s hand, smiled, and moved through them, trying not to flinch as every person attempted to touch her shoulders. Countless glowing Atayuman eyes met hers before they reached the edge of the gathering.
A raindrop landed on her hand. She reached up and felt that the top of her headscarf was damp. She pulled her hood up and activated her wrist computer, nearly blinding herself with its white light. Navigating to the archaic weather app that the Atayumans operated, she looked at the radar map of the incoming weather formation. It was predicted to be light and move past the city shortly after sunrise.
“God damn, I love diplomacy,” Jak said, words soft despite their volume. “If only the [Vesta’s ethnicity] weren’t so uptight, we could’ve been doing this on [Vesta’s home planet]!”
“Jak, please,” she said sharply. With a bit of tugging and pushing, she guided him up the sweeping main road toward the palace gates. Some distance from the royal guards, Vesta tensed her jaw and held her breath to redden her face.
“Are you doing that thing?” Jak asked, taking a series of tiny steps to steady himself.
“Yes,” she huffed, shooting him a sideways look.
“Why don’t you just think about those photos you had me take—”
“Jak!” she said loudly, playfully pushing him, then grabbing his shirt to keep him from falling over.
“You know, the ones for Piata—”
“Yes, I know!” she said, feeling her cheeks burn. Embarrassed, she channeled her shy charisma and played a nervous flirty drunk. The four guards at the gate seemed none-the-wiser and cleared the way for them.
Author Bio
Walter Robinson is a speculative fiction author based in Western PA.
A classically trained engineer with experience in product development and advanced materials manufacturing, he has a passion for telling the human stories that are fundamental to the built world. When he isn’t writing or drawing, Walter spends his time designing and fabricating.
Our characters currently live at the Fortuna Enclave, a classically styled mansion located on the beach of a lake on the contested planet Corben Six. The Enclave is a sort of temporary corporate embassy, used by the Fortuna Corporation and its leader, Piata, to forge business dealings in the region. After a month of entertaining foreign dignitaries to further Piata’s goals, main character Vesta is burnt out. Her best friend Jak has taken it upon himself to organize a beach party.
Excerpt from Chapter 20 “The Sightless”:
The Corbenite sun burned in the sky above the city, just an hour and a half from the horizon. Long shadows made dark the sandstone wall and the side of the gazebo that Vesta approached. She expected only a small gathering, but the pavilion was full of lounging guards, attendants, and activity, the loudest of which was the head chef and Jak standing over the open grill.
“…you will want a pinch of the—”
Jak held up his hand to call for silence. “I’ve got this.”
“But sir, this will bring out the zest of the—”
“Is it so hard to let a man grill in peace?” Jak asked.
“With you, sir, excruciating.”
…
One by one, the pleasant human sounds died until only the crash of the cycling waves remained. Vesta opened her eyes and saw that the guards in the water were slowly returning to shore. She turned around to find that those on the lawn had stopped moving. Some stood at attention, and others clasped their hands.
Piata stepped from the shade of the house into the sunlight, looking like an explosion of embers as her curly golden hair danced freely in the wind. She strode forward, dark legs breaking through the high slits of a billowing white dress that seemed to float in the air behind her despite the irregular strength of the lake air. Piata’s cloudy eyes snapped straight to Vesta and looked nowhere else as she walked down the lawn like the rest of the world did not exist.
…
“Speaking of dinner,” Jak said loudly, “first ones are for the ladies of the house.” He walked up to the couch with two plates in hand: a pair of kebabs and a few pieces of flatbread on each. The smell of the dark grilled fish and vegetables was better than that of anything Jak had ever cooked. Vesta took in the aromas before the wind scattered them, then she accepted the plate from Jak. Piata pulled herself upright and turned to sit straight. She received her plate and set it on her thighs, holding each side as if she did not know what to do.
The Fortuna chef managed to shoulder his way around Jak. “I am so sorry, ma’am, this is a Corbenite variety of freshwater—”
Piata held up her hand and dismissed the chef with a nod. “I will be fine, thank you.”
…
Sitting shoulder-to-shoulder at the end of the dock, Vesta and Piata talked first about the lake. Piata kept her eyes closed; the light glinting off the water was too bright for her damaged irises, so Vesta described all the details for her. Then she quickly changed the topic. Just as she had practiced in her mind, Vesta made a case for her contingency planning, as she called it. Piata just sat and listened, gently breathing out every time the warm water enveloped her feet and ankles.
Piata said, “I am glad you and Cal get along now.”
“Umm, not quite. But I know enough about him to respect his findings. I think that maybe, just maybe, he is starting to believe in the cause.”
“That cause?”
“The Endeavor. And he’s frank about the instability that this whole deal with Paris poses,” Vesta said.
“He is ever so helpful. I take your point, dear. We will plan for the worst.” Piata shifted and leaned back. She cracked her eyes and looked at Vesta with a sly smile. The front-most strip of her dress blew up to reveal a narrow white swimsuit. In a sultry tone of voice, she asked, “Do you remember back on the Miren Star, when you found me in the pool?”
“I do.”
“I enjoyed watching you climb out in those tight little shorts.”
Vesta felt her cheeks warm. She turned to look back down the dock to ensure none of the guards or attendants were close enough to hear them. Everyone was still either on the porch or in the pavilion. “Well,” Vesta said slowly, leaning close to speak quietly into Piata’s ear, “why don’t we swim back? You can watch me walk up the beach in something much smaller.”
Piata shook her head. “I did not realize Jak invited all the house staff. This”—she tugged on the white fabric of her swimsuit, nearly flashing Vesta— “is see-through when wet.”
Vesta bit her lip and her cheeks grew hot even as she turned her head away from the setting sun. She lifted herself to her feet. With a deep breath, she pulled off her dress, handed it to Piata, and dove into the lake, piercing the face of an approaching swell with her hands pointed over her head. The force of the water against the lake bottom brought her up to the surface fast, and she emerged with enough speed that she fell over. Embracing the motion, she swam to the side to clear the dock, then started toward shore with lazy sidestrokes that took advantage of every wave. Piata walked back on the dock, keeping pace and beaming down at Vesta. Just as the waves started to break, Vesta found the sandy ground and stood up, bobbing closer to shore before getting a solid footing.
Water poured out of her tangled hair and ran down her arms and hips as she walked through the shallower and shallower water. A single sweep of her hand cleared the pale hairs from her face, and she scanned the grounds ahead of her.
“Hot angels! Whew!” Jak whistled.
Vesta felt a thousand stares and tried to wear a casual smile, but she knew her face was cherry red. She narrowed her eyes in Jak’s direction.
“Looking good, Vesta,” Phoebe called, raising her glass.
Someone swore quietly, and everyone turned back to their conversations, or at least they were polite enough to try to. Piata had no trouble staring daggers into the gathering under the pavilion. Vesta hooked her arm and walked her up the lawn and into the open ground level of the private wing.
“Did you like the show?” Vesta asked, mounting the stairs and feeling the swimsuit ride up a little. She ignored it as she twisted to look down at Piata, who grinned up at her.
“Even half-blind, I still enjoy your beauty.”
“And when you go fully blind?”
“Then I will just have to enjoy you by feel,” she whispered, planting her hands on Vesta’s butt and pushing her up the stairs.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Saulius Arbocius takes readers on a personal journey through the lens of a parable involving a sheep and his relationship with his shepherd in the book “The Good Shepherd”.
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The Synopsis
This story draws inspiration from Jesus’ powerful parable of the lost sheep. Just as the sheep in the parable was lost and in need of rescue, so too are we often lost in the storms of life, desperately searching for comfort and a safe haven.
Just as the Good Shepherd came to the rescue of the lost sheep, so too does Jesus come to our aid in our times of need. His love and grace are always available to us, even in our darkest moments.
Throughout the narrative, we witness scenes where the lost sheep, wandering aimlessly and feeling adrift in the world. But through her journey, she discovers the power of faith and redemption, finding solace in the loving arms of the Good Shepherd.
This story is not merely a tale of a lost sheep, but a meditation on the nature of God’s love and the transformative power of faith. It is a reminder that no matter how lost or alone we may feel, we are never truly beyond the reach of the Good Shepherd’s mercy.
Come and join this tale, and journey together to uncover the depths of a life lived in faith. Allow the beauty and wonder of the divine to envelop you as the story unfolds, and feel the transformative power of its message reverberate within your heart and soul.
The Review
This was a creative and inspiring read. The author’s use of allegory in retelling this classic Christian parable was great to see come alive. The insights that readers can gain from this small sheep and his journey of discovery make this book feel more connected than most others in this genre.
Although not religious, this book’s inspiration within the reader allows readers from all walks of life to resonate and engage with the narrative. The hopeful undertones of the story and the sense of identity and love that the narrative explores will be profoundly felt throughout this book.
The Verdict
Heartfelt, engaging, and inspiring author Saulius Arbocius’s “The Good Shepherd” is a must-read book. The touching moments as the narrator communes both with nature and the shepherd and the engaging moments of the story will sit with readers 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
Hello, I’m Saulius Arbocius, born on June 6, 1978, in the heart of Lithuania’s summer. My journey began with an innate curiosity to understand the divine. Growing up in a serene countryside, I sensed the presence of God through nature, igniting a lifelong quest for deeper knowledge.
Embracing my passion, I embarked on a path that led me to the Catholic priesthood. Theology, with its profound intricacies, captured my heart and mind, and I remain enamored by its depth. My formative years were marked by transformative seminars, evangelization, and enlightening mission schools.
After completing my theological studies and becoming a deacon, I decided to embark on a new chapter, opting to shift my focus to family life. After getting dispensation from Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, me and my cherished wife and two children, found a different yet equally profound way to serve God and the Church. Since 2013, we’ve made our home in the UK.
In service to my faith, I guide adults in sacramental preparation, lead seminars, and am currently devoted to the art of writing. My passion for theological exploration continues unabated, and my current endeavor involves sharing my insights through the pages of books. Each word I write is a testament to my unwavering commitment to understanding and illuminating the spiritual journey we all undertake.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman embracing her growing powers must find a way to battle her destiny in author K.T. Anglehart’s “The Twin Flame”, the second book in the Scottish Scrolls series.
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The Synopsis
Mckenna O’Dwyer knows she’s impulsive. Sometimes reckless. She also knows she’s a witch and keeps reincarnating as one, for reasons only her mother, Abby, can help her fully understand.
After weeks of searching, mother and daughter finally reunite—just as Elizabeth Dunlop’s prophecy states—and Abby is keen on helping Mckenna get a firm grasp on her abilities. She teaches her the proper way to channel elemental magic…but Mckenna soon discovers there’s a shortcut, something Cillian fully supports if it means getting quicker, more powerful results.
At first, Mckenna will do anything to thwart the High Priestess once and for all, before her powers are used to wipe out billions of souls. But the white horse Eachna’s devastating vision of Mother Nature continues to haunt her. Is that the future awaiting them if the Scottish Scrolls aren’t fulfilled?
Which is the lesser evil?
Enthralling, passionate, and with twists you won’t see coming, Mckenna’s magical education begins in book II of The Scottish Scrolls.
The Review
The author has recaptured what made book one in the Scottish Scrolls series so beloved and upped the ante with more action and magic than ever before. While book one laid the foundation for this series, book two fully explores the larger magical and mythical universe and the protagonist’s growing powers.
The vivid detail that went into the story, as well as the character dynamics and the fast-paced atmosphere, allowed for, at times, a harrowing yet compelling narrative. The thoughtful and creative approach to Celtic history and mythology was perfectly crafted. It was also great to see the back and forth of the protagonist and her mother in their growing relationship.
The Verdict
Harrowing, adventurous, and mythological author K.T. Anglehart’s “The Twin Flame” is a must-read YA urban fantasy with a twist on supernatural storytelling. The stunning atmosphere captures the love so many have for the Celtic people’s history, culture, and mythos, and the twists in the story will keep readers breathless. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Katrina Tortorici Anglehart is an award-winning author from Montreal, with a multilingual prowess in English, French, Italian, and “Spanglish”. A dedicated academic, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, a graduate certificate in Scriptwriting, and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing.
Inspired by the wizarding world, the land of Narnia, and parallel planes, she penned The Wise One, inviting readers to connect with nature and its ever-present magic. Her exploration of the landscapes and folklore of Ireland and Scotland greatly influenced her debut YA urban fantasy, marking the inception of The Scottish Scrolls series.
K.T. Anglehart is a passionate advocate for bunnies, thanks to her late Netherland Dwarf, Magic—the inspiration behind her imprint, The Magic Dwarf Press. When she’s not writing or diving into magical reads, she revels in hiking, antiquing, and Netflix binges alongside her high school-sweetheart-turned-husband, Andy. They currently live in Toronto with their three pets: Nessie, a mysterious rescue dog from Puerto Rico, and their whimsical bunnies, Onyx and Stirling.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Joel McKay explores the cosmic, haunting horrors of the world in his collection, “It Came From the Trees: And Other Violent Aberrations”.
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The Synopsis
Tree planters on the run from parasitic insects. A physicist who has become the target of a murderous airline. Teenagers trapped in a museum with an eldritch horror. An escaped pit fighter thrust into a desperate stand at a sagging mountain fortress. And a luckless cowboy sailing across a sea of grass to the bloody resurrection of an elder god. Welcome to Joel McKay’s It Came from the Trees and Other Violent Aberrations, a collection of five page-turners as strange, disparate and bloody as their titles suggest.
So, grab a stiff drink, turn the lights down low, settle into your favorite reading nook and enjoy this brief but memorable collection of tales from one of the newest voices in Canadian pulp fiction.
The Review
This collection of stories did an incredible job of simultaneously capturing the essence of terror and pulp fiction. Each tale expertly weaves the haunting atmosphere the author’s writing evokes with the mounting tension that the genre is infamous for.
The creepy settings and the horror-filled narratives perfectly complement the rich characters that populate these stories. The way these characters are thrust into these evolving bouts of terror and the unsettling nature of the horrors they face brings to mind the works of Stephen King and H.P. Lovecraft and the horror classic The Great God Pan by Arthur Machen.
The Verdict
Chilling, atmospheric, and engaging author Joel McKay’s “It Came From The Trees: And Other Violent Aberrations” is a must-read horror and pulp fiction collection. The cosmic horror setting and the grounded character development will keep readers interested and invested in the author’s work now and in the future. If you haven’t already be sure to check out this book today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Joel McKay is an award-winning writer. He calls Prince George, B.C. home, where he lives with his wife and two daughters. Wolf at the Door is his first novella, which won the 2022 Global Book Award gold medal for horror. His most recent published fiction was the short story Number Hunnerd in Tyche Books’ anthology Water: Selkies, Sirens and Sea Monsters, and the splatterpunk western short story Hands, which was published in Brigids Gate Press’ anthology Blood in the Soil, Terror on the Wind.
The inspiration for his fiction is drawn from the landscapes and people of British Columbia, particularly the province’s vast, untamed and often misunderstood north. It’s the small towns and the people who call them home that inspired the good ol’ boys featured in Number Hunnerd, or the cool, crisp evenings and early sunsets of October that planted the idea for werewolves at a Thanksgiving feast.
Joel is passionate about Canada, its history and the history of the peoples who have called it home since time immemorial. As far as he’s concerned, New England has got nothing on Northern B.C. when it comes to perfect settings for supernatural tales.
In his spare time, Joel is an avid fly fisherman, mountain biker, hiker and reader. His work as an economic development professional, public relations specialist and journalist has earned him numerous national, provincial and local awards and recognitions.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman balancing her store’s relocation and renovations must contend with her sister’s big-time dreams with the sudden mystery surrounding the death of a famed Hollywood fashion designer in author Diane Bator’s “All That Shines”, the next entry in the Glitter Bay Mysteries series.
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The Synopsis
When Sage Miller’s sister Laken decides to host a fashion show as a grand opening for the new location of Vintage Sage, she’s not amused. Even less so when she discovers her sister hired a Hollywood fashion designer to help. Not only does the designer show up in the middle of renovations, but he drags along his protégé.Then she finds Sebastian Hayward III, dead in her store.Suddenly it seems half of Los Angeles—all unwelcome guests from Laken’s past—appear in Vintage Sage seeking something Sebastian had in his possession. Sage has to deal with renovations, a fashion show, and a murder before she and Laken come unglued.Review: All That Shines is another great “who done it” with Sage and Laken and once again I was wrong! Can’t wait for the next book in the Glitter Bay Series to see what the sisters are up to. Diane Bator has once again successfully completed another beautifully written mystery: “All That Shines” Book 2 in the Glitter Bay Mysteries series. A comfortable, easy read, and a page turner which keeps you guessing right to the very end. I thoroughly enjoyed Bator’s willingness to step into the deep waters of some human issues which rage today’s society. An honest and bold move on her part, Bator writes with absolute grace and dignity. Well done! 5 Stars, Award-winning, bestselling author, Maggie Kirton.
The Review
This is another fantastic high fashion meets murder mystery read. The author beautifully captures the essence of the small-town mystery within the grander scale of the setting. The imagery and atmosphere allow readers to feel transported in this story, and the tension can be felt both in Sage’s daily life and the murder mystery.
Yet it was the character dynamics and the mystery itself that brought this narrative to life. The conflict and drama between Sage and Laken are palpable, while the larger-than-life personality of the soon-to-be murder victim and the impact he made allowed for a wide cast of characters to become potential suspects, adding to the mystery itself.
The Verdict
Harrowing, creative, and entertaining, author Diane Bator’s “All That Shines” is a must-read mystery and the perfect next entry in the Glitter Bay Series. The way the author adds more depth to these characters from book 1 to now and the shocking developments will keep readers engaged thoroughly. If you haven’t yet, be sure to get your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
A prolific mystery writer, I am the mom of three kids and two cats as well as author of Wild Blue Mysteries, Gilda Wright Mysteries, Glitter Bay Mysteries, and the Audra Clemmings Mysteries from Books We Love Ltd. with many more to come!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman struggling with life and nothing left to lose finds herself thrust into a family secret that will change things forever in author D.C. Gomez’s “The Cat Lady Special”, the first book in the author’s The Cat Lady Series.
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The Synopsis
What would you do if you had nothing to lose?
Angela has reached the end of her rope. Bills are piling up, money is sparse, and her two-timing ex-husband traded her in for a “Barbie” lookalike. Depression and lack of hope put her in a world filled with never-ending pain, and when she loses the one thing she has left—her will to live—she knows there’s nothing left to go back to. Until an unexpected knock on her door wakes her up.
The lonely, sad cat lady comes face to face with a new and exciting opportunity, if only she grabs the bull by the horns and accepts. When she does, she learns of a crazy family secret, but she also finds a way to save herself, and the people she loves most.
The Cat Lady Special is a story of second chances, discovering your inner savior, and of finding hope in the most unexpected places. It will appeal to fans of “How Stella Got her Groove Back” and “Breaking Bad.”
The Review
What a fun and rich story. The author does an incredible job of crafting a narrative that is both fun and thrilling all at once. The memorable story development that highlights the small-town life and action keeps the reader engaged very early in the book. The author’s use of imagery vividly brings the story’s details to life with extraordinary depth.
The heart of this story rests in the protagonist’s rich character dynamics and relatability. The story of a woman struggling in the world, only to find her true identity and the power she had been hoping to regain in her life, was not only relatable but, in its own fun and unique way, inspiring. The dramatic yet humorous take on her story in regards to her family’s secret business and the hilarious connection she shares with her mother and her group of friends, dubbed “The Silver-Hair Gang,” the book becomes a thrilling blend of small-town life meets Breaking Bad.
The Verdict
Captivating, gripping, and entertaining, author D.C. Gomez’s “The Cat Lady Special” is a must-read women’s humorous fiction meets small-town mystery and crime thriller. The witty banter between the characters, the relatable protagonist, and the shocking twists and turns will keep readers on the author’s every word. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
D. C. Gomez is a USA Today Bestselling Author, born in the Dominican Republic and grew up in Salem, Massachusetts. She study film and television at New York University. After college she joined the US Army, and proudly served for four years.
Those experiences shaped her quirky sense of humor. D.C. has a love for those who served and the families that support them. She currently lives in the quaint city of Wake Village, Texas, with her furry roommate, Chincha.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Christine Milkovic Krauss shares the emotions and stresses that children often face when going to the doctor by showcasing a young cat’s visit to the vet in the book “Teddy Visits the Vet”.
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The Synopsis
Teddy visits the vet is the fourth book in “The Adventures of Teddy” series. In Teddy Visits the Vet, children can relate their own feelings and emotions to health care processes and learn self soothing techniques. Teddy learns to make choices and celebrates their feelings of self empowerment.
The Review
This was yet another grand entry into the Teddy universe. The warmth of the illustrations and the heart of the themes the narrative explores made this a remarkable story. The way the narrative inspires conversation between a child and their parent about healthcare, in general, makes this a brilliant children’s story.
The educational value and the inviting storytelling both played a significant part in this book’s success. The thoughtful way the author engaged the reader with memorable characters and a depth of honesty that spoke to the author’s real-life adventures with Teddy made this a stellar read. The imagery, both in writing and the illustrations themselves, captures young readers’ imaginations and makes for a heartfelt story.
The Verdict
Heartfelt, caring, and engaging author Christine Milkovic Krauss’s “Teddy Visits The Vet” is a must-read children’s book. The techniques to calm the nerves and the enlightening way the author speaks to young readers about healthcare, in general, made this a fantastic children’s book to get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Everybody has a story. More importantly; every person is deserving of friendship, kindness and acceptance. Teddy Loses His Ears is a non-fiction story about my real life rescue cat who lost his ears to frostbite while being homeless in negative 50 degree temperatures in central Canada.
All of the books in the Teddy series will highlight educational points about pet care, support inclusivity and celebrate being different together. Teddy Loses His Ears is the introduction book to the series and touches on self esteem and disability awareness. Each illustration in the story is hand painted and even has a Teddy’s favourite toy hidden on every page for children to find! This story was created to raise awareness for rescue organizations and promote, adopt vs shop, to find your purr-fect family pet.
In addition to being a pet lover and cat mom, I am also a mom of two primary school aged children.
These books could never have come to life without their inspiration, a tribe of supportive humans and of course, Book Club.
Dominic stared dreamily out the window at the vibrant ivy climbing the brownstone across the street and at nothing at all. His desk was littered with paper, half-empty cans of Wild Cherry Pepsi, and his iPhone, attached to his ears via a long white cord.
It was another Monday morning in the office.
The sexy male Italian voice on the instructional podcast repeated itself. “Vado a letto. I am going to bed.”
In the window’s reflection, he could just make out his boss, Dante, in the office behind him. Dante was behind his desk, his handsome Italian features drawn tight in concentration. “I’d like to vado a letto with him,” Dominic whispered.
“What?” Kristen was at the desk next to his. She looked vaguely annoyed at the interruption, frowning at him.
He pulled out the earbuds. “Nothing,” he said, smiling privately. “Just a little Italian study time.”
She grinned. “Still doing that, huh?” She glanced over her shoulder. “He’s out of your league, you know.”
“Shut up. At least he plays for my team.”
“If he’s even single.” She stuck her tongue out at him and went back to work.
Break time was over. He stared at his screen, where the layout for page seventeen waited.
It was easy money, writing copy for a home decorating magazine. In Habit paid the rent, so he could spend his nights writing the great gay American novel. He’d finished one already and had sent it off to a dozen publishers in the hopes of getting his big break.
Sometimes he wondered if he spent his most creative hours and energy on the magazine at the expense of his true passion. Maybe cranking out copy dulled his writing muscles.
Five years out of college, and he’d been published in two prestigious writing journals (which paid next-to-nothing) and had his first novel rejected by ten of twelve publishers. “We’re sorry, it’s just not what we’re looking for” was the universal refrain. Add in his short story and poetry rejections, and he was closing in on seventy. If that old rule of thumb was right, he was only thirty rejections away from getting published. Really published, with a paycheck.
If only it were that simple.
He finished page seventeen’s layout, and the next three, and then took a bathroom break. He needed to be away from his desk for five layout-free minutes.
The bathroom was gloriously empty. Remodeled last year for the DIY issue, it was lined with earth-tone tiles, sparkling steel urinals, and one of those sinks with the wide ceramic bowl that sat above the granite countertop.
It was Dominic’s sanctuary. As he relieved himself, he stretched his arms out overhead and rested his head against the wall, letting his mind go blank.
The door swung open, and he pulled his arms down in a rush, embarrassed.
“Ciao,” his boss said, standing at the urinal next to Dominic.
“Ciao,” he replied. “Come stai?” He tried not to let his nervousness show. Dante always affected him that way. With his curly dark hair, olive skin, and smoldering Italian good looks, he was exactly Dom’s type. But the man’s effect on his nerves was especially bad here, when his pants were literally down. Dante’s cologne was almost overpowering.
“You are becoming good,” Dante said, clapping him on the back.
“What? Oh, the Italian.” Dominic smiled in spite of himself. “Grazie,” he said, blushing. “My friend Enrico is helping me learn a few new phrases.”
Dante had transferred to In Habit three months earlier from the company’s fashion division, and Dominic had been enthralled by him immediately. He’d restarted the Italian lessons shortly after.
“We are… how do you say it? Working up a new feature on modern Italian designers for October,” Dante said casually. He was not pee-shy, clearly. “I thought you might want to take a part…”
His English was good, but not perfect. That was one of the things Dominic found most attractive about him. Dante buttoned up his fly and went to wash up.
“Take part?” Dominic shook his head. “I’m not that good with the language yet.” Truth was, Dante was a hell of a lot better with English than Dominic would ever be with Italian.
Next to each other in the mirror, they were about the same height, but where Dominic was thin and blond, Dante was… substantial. Not heavy. Just solid, a real man—that old tall, dark, and handsome thing.
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J. Scott Coatsworth has a new MM romance/LGBTQ short story collection out: Love & Limitations.
Love & Limitations is Scott’s fourth short story collection and his first one featuring his contemporary MM and LGBTQ+ stories:
I Only Want to Be With You: Derrek likes Ryan. Ryan likes Alex. Alex treats Ryan like trash. So why can’t he see who really loves him?
The Boy in the Band: It’s hard for a trans kid in high school, just like it was for a gay kid two decades before. Can Ryan and Justin find common ground in time?
Translation: Dominic has a thing for Italian guys, especially his boss, Dante. His roommate Enrico has a thing for him. No matter how this ends, someone is going to get hurt.
Slow Thaw: As the Antarctic warms, so does the chilly relationship between scientist Javier Fernandez and new arrival—and trans man—Col Steele as they contend with a disaster on the ice.
Ten: After the death of his husband, Chris faces a gay mid-life crisis—at thirty-five—as he jumps back into the dating scene for ten dates in ten days.
This is the first time these stories have been collected in one place, and the first publication of “The Boy in the Band.”
Warnings:Bullying, suicidal ideation and attempt, past physical abuse, deadnaming
Those lazy, quiet mornings, sitting in the big bay window seat across from Ari with our legs entwined.
That happy time was long gone.
Instead, I was waiting out on the sidewalk, leaning up against the railing of the MARRS Building boardwalk. The wind blew chill, going right through my windbreaker, and the sky was slate gray. It never snowed in Sacramento, but it sure seemed to be trying.
I stuffed my hands into my jacket pockets, wishing I had a pair of mittens. As an Arizona boy, I wasn’t used to the cold, even Sacramento cold.
I stood at the corner of 20th and K in the heart of gay Sacramento, waiting for a guy named Bryan. Spelled with a “Y”, of course. We gays are nothing if not predictable.
Christmas music played from speakers in the eaves of the building behind me.
My husband Ari had passed away on New Year’s Eve the previous year. He’d been hit by a street-racing Mercedes when we were crossing J Street, and it had been twelve agonizing days in the hospital before he took his last breath.
Three seconds. That’s how far behind him I was, checking something on Facebook. I didn’t even remember what it was.
Three goddamned seconds.
After a year of being alone, of beating myself up for those three seconds, I’d finally decided that it was time to start dating again. Ari was gone, and nothing would bring him back. He would want me to go on.
Still, my heart wasn’t in it.
My mother was sick with worry. Every day I got a call or a text or an email asking if I was okay.
Ari would want me to have someone again.
I was thirty-five, and all alone.
I’d challenged myself to go on ten dates in ten days—maybe I’d find someone new. If not, at least I’d have a reason to be alone.
And so, Bryan.
He was twenty-five, hung, and had no head, at least if his Grindr profile was to be believed.
What was it about gay guys and their abs?
Then again, I’d swiped right when I saw that gorgeous chest, so I guess I’m part of the problem.
Grindr photos never lie, right?
Bryan arrived on time — a point in his favor — and he was young and beautiful. Blond, blue eyed, and yes, all of twenty-five. I laughed under my breath. I had underwear older than he was.
I’m no slouch at 5’11”, but he was taller than me.
Ari had been just my height, with black hair and dark brown eyes. Medium, dark, and handsome.
Bryan and I hugged and headed down to Pizzeria Urbano. We grabbed a couple slices and took them outside to the patio. Lavender Heights was quiet today—the cold weather, most likely—and the people-watching was practically non-existent.
“You look just like your photo,” Bryan said between bites, flashing me a big white perfectly aligned smile. No one had natural teeth that straight, or that white. “What are you, like forty?”
Little shit. “Um, thirty-five,” I replied. “And you have a head.”
“What? Oh yeah, the Grindr thing.” He grinned again, and I had to shield my eyes. “I don’t want my parents finding me on there.”
That surprised me. “You’re in the closet? I thought your generation was past all of that.”
“Nah, I just don’t want them in my business. It’s bad enough I have to follow all the ‘house rules.’ But hey, I like dating older guys.”
Ouch again. And he lived at home.
But damn, he was cute.
I tried to get us back on track. “So what do you do?”
“I’m a personal trainer.” He eyed his pizza. “I hardly ever eat this shit.”
Of course you are. “Yeah? Where?”
“At Lord’s Gym in South Sac.” He poked me in my less than perfectly flat stomach. “Hey, I can get you back in shape—you eat pizza and carbs like this all the time, right? Come in some time and I’ll hook you up.” He finished his slice, licking his fingers.
“Suuuuure.” I mentally added a new Grindr rule—from now on, any swipe-rights had to have a head.
Bryan was totally wrong for me. Too young, too athletic, not too bright, and he had all the manners of an untrained puppy.
“Wanna go back to my place?” he said, panting.
Oh my God, that tongue.
Ari wouldn’t mind.
What the fuck are you waiting for? Ari whispered in my ear. He’s hot.
I laughed. Of course it wasn’t him. But it’s exactly what he would have said, given the current situation, and if Ari wanted me to … “Sure.”
Bryan took my hand and led me back to his place, just a couple blocks away.
The next day, I started an Evernote to keep track and rate my dates. I don’t usually sleep and tell, but I gave Bryan a four and a half for date-ability, and a ten in bed.
Author Bio
Scott lives with his husband Mark in a yellow bungalow in Sacramento. He was indoctrinated into fantasy and sci fi by his mother at the tender age of nine. He devoured her library, but as he grew up, he wondered where all the people like him were.
He decided that if there weren’t queer characters in his favorite genres, he would remake them to his own ends.
A Rainbow Award winning author, he runs Queer Sci Fi, QueeRomance Ink, and Other Worlds Ink with Mark, sites that celebrate fiction reflecting queer reality, and is the committee chair for the Indie Authors Committee at the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA).
