Guest Blog Post: Publishing Anthologies by Barbara Barth

As part of the amazing new Women on Writing Blog Tour for author Barbara Barth’s novel “The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later”, I am honored to shared this guest blog post from the author today on writing anthologies. I hope you all will enjoy this as much as I did.

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     I wish I planned better. Iโ€™ve always jumped right in doing something without much thought to it. The idea I can do this always crosses my mind first and then I ask myself, what was I thinking? Publishing anthologies (now I have done two with a third on its way early 2020) has been a learning process for me. Iโ€™m delighted to say you can teach an old dog new tricks and Iโ€™ve made progress in the planning department.

     The first two anthologies A Cup of Christmas (2014) and A Cup of Love (Valentineโ€™s 2018) were beasts to conquer in a short timeframe. I contacted writers I knew, sent guidelines for stories and formatting. I didnโ€™t want to hinder anyoneโ€™s style, so I was open to memoir, fiction, recipes, and poetry. Some great things came in, some not so great. Some of the best writers sent in first drafts, not finished projects. Iโ€™m not an editor for punctuation, Iโ€™m more about continuity. The good news, many flushed out their stories, and for those that didnโ€™t, well I did my own haphazard editing. The anthologies were to benefit a charity, First Book that does wonderful things for children in need with reading and learning materials. The writers pulled together and both anthologies, last-minute ideas, were completed in six weeks each. An awesome task but we got it done. I also have a wonderful book designer, my sister, who knows how to knock it out of the park with a fabulous looking product. Those two anthologies were eBooks only.

      I joked, if I ever do this again, Iโ€™d call it A Cup of Cyanide. I was over all the work Iโ€™d brought on myself with the others, and you get my drift with the cyanide! Never crack a joke like that with a group of writers. They loved the title, and so a third anthology is in the works. A bit of murder and mayhem. This time itโ€™s being done differently. Itโ€™s our Walton Writers project. Weโ€™re taking our time. The group members will design the cover and interior, edit the stories, and learn the book formatting process. Itโ€™s the focus of our monthly meetings. This anthology is a grand way for everyone to be involved, make the decisions, and ultimately have a book (both paper and eBook) that is their product. Our non-profit this time is The Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts, where we meet each month. We plan to have a big launch party at the Art Center when we finish.

      The bottom line, itโ€™s all been great. The writers (from never published to award-winning) gave freely and quickly to the first two anthologies. Writers giving back. I love that. And the excitement of our writing group for the new anthology is infectious. I learn something new myself at every meeting, because itโ€™s all a learning process, to be better writers.

ย ย ย ย ย ย So, if you think you want to publish an anthology and donโ€™t know how, I didnโ€™t either. Donโ€™t let that stop you.ย 


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The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later

Tour Begins November 11th

Book Summary

Picking up where The Unfaithful Widow ended, Ten Years Later continues the authorโ€™s journey from widow to a slightly askew woman. A memoir written with warmth and candor on being single again, aging, and finding a creative path surrounded by dogs, friends, laughter, and a bit of craziness. Barbara Barth shares stories on the adventures that followed her first year alone as she moved headfirst into a new life, listening to her heart, sometimes not so wisely, but always full speed ahead. Join her on the ride of her life, from owning an antique shop to moving to a Victorian cottage outside of Atlanta, and all the follies in between. Going into the next decade with six dogs by her side, the author proves you are only as old as you feel, and happiness begins with a grateful heart. A funny and engaging memoir for anyone who wants to be their own superhero facing lifeโ€™s good and bad moments.

Print Length: 374 pages

Genre: Memoir

Publisher: Amazon Digital Services, LLC

ASIN: B07YBNHXZG

The Unfaithful widow Ten Years Later is available in print and as an ebook at Amazon.com

About the Author, Barbara Barth

Author, blogger, sometimes antique dealer, dog hoarder, bedazzled by life. Widowed ten years ago, Barth writes about finding a creative path back to happiness. Her recent move to a 1906 historic cottage brought many surprises, including discovering the Monroeโ€“Walton Center for the Arts where she started the monthly Walton Writers group and is on the MWCA Board as Literary Arts Chair. Barth is a contributor to Walton Living Magazine and a former blogger for The Balancing Act, Lifetime Televisionโ€™s morning show for women. Currently she lives with six dogs, rescue dogs that rescued her. 

Visit her website at https://www.barbarabarthwriter.com/, follow her on Twitter @writerwithdogs, and follow her Amazon author page.

— Blog Tour Dates

Today @ The Muffin

What goes better in the morning than a muffin? Grab your coffee and join us in celebrating the launch of Barbara Barth’s new book The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later. You can read an interview with the author and enter to win a copy of the book.

http://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com

November 12th @ All Things Audry

Author Barbara Barth is a guest writer over at Audry’s blog today and will be talking about women friendships.

http://allthingsaudry.blogspot.com/

November 13th @ Words from the Heart

Stop by Linda’s blog and you can read a guest post by Barbara Barth about publishing anthologies.

https://contemplativeed.blogspot.com/

November 14th @ Thoughts in Progress

Visit Mason’s blog today and you can read Barbara’s guest post about starting a writing group. Don’t miss it!

https://masoncanyon.blogspot.com/

November 15th @ The World of My Imagination

Visit Nicole’s blog and read her review of Barbara Barth’s book The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later.

http://theworldofmyimagination.blogspot.com

November 16th @ Lori Duff Writes

Stop by Lori’s blog today where you can read her interview with Barbara Barth and read her review of Barbara’s book The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later.

https://www.loriduffwrites.com/blog/

November 16th @ Jill Sheets Blog

Visit Jill’s blog today and you can read Barbara Barth’s guest post about self-publishing.

https://jillsheets.blogspot.com.

November 17th @ A Storybook World

Be sure to stop by Deirdra’s blog today and check out her spotlight of the book The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later and enter to win a copy of the book!

http://www.astorybookworld.com

November 18th @ Beverley A. Baird’s Blog

Be sure you visit Bev’s blog and read Barbara Barth’s guest post about starting over at 70. You won’t want to miss this!

http://beverleyabaird.wordpress.com

November 19th @ Look to the Western Sky

Be sure to visit Margo’s blog and read her interview with author Barbara Barth. Don’t miss it!

https://margoldill.com/blog

November 20th @ Anthony Avina’s Blog

Make sure you visit Anthony’s blog today and read Barbara Barth’s guest post about publishing anthologies.

http://www.authoranthonyavinablog.com

November 21st @ Cassandra’s Writing World

Stop by Cassandra’s blog today and read her review of The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later. You can also enter to win a copy of the book as well!

https://cassandra-mywritingworld.blogspot.com/

November 22nd @ Karen Brown Tyson’s Blog

Join us at Karen Brown Tyson’s blog where you can read a guest post about self-publishing by author Barbara Barth. Don’t miss it!

November 23rd @ Beverley A. Baird’s Blog

Visit Bev’s blog again and you can read her review of Barbara Barth’s book The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later.

http://beverleyabaird.wordpress.com

November 24th @ Choices

Be sure to stop by Madeline’s blog and read Barbara Barth’s guest post that will be talking about women friendships.

http://madelinesharples.com/

November 25th @ Wild Woman Writer

Visit Anne’s blog today and you can read Barbara Barth’s blog guest post about starting over at 70.

https://wildwomanwriter2018.blogspot.com/

November 26th @ Life Like A Galaxy Girl

Stop by Alanna’s blog today and you can read her review of Barbara Barth’s memoir The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later.

http://lifelikeagalaxygirl.com/

November 27th @ Lisa Haselton’s Reviews and Interviews

Visit Lisa’s blog today and you can read her interview with author Barbara Barth and find out more about this incredible author!

http://lisahaseltonsreviewsandinterviews.blogspot.com/

November 28th @ Bibliotica

Stop by Melissa’s blog and make sure you read Barbara Barth’s guest post about grief over the years and finding happiness again.

https://www.bibliotica.com/

November 29th @ Stranded in Chaos

Visit Sara’s blog and you can read her review of Barbara Barth’s book The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later.

https://strandupdate.blogspot.com/

November 30th @ Anthony Avina’s Blog

Visit Anthony’s blog again and read his review of Barbara Barth’s book The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later.

http://www.authoranthonyavinablog.com

December 1st @ Words from the Heart

Visit Linda’s blog and read her review of Barbara Barth’s book The Unfaithful Widow Ten Years Later. 

https://contemplativeed.blogspot.com

December 2nd @ Women’s Writing Circle

Stop by the blog Women’s Writing Circle and you can read a guest post by Barbara Barth about adopting dogs while all her friends are having grandkids. Don’t miss this one!

http://www.susanweidener.com/


Net Force: Dark Web by Jerome Preisler Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A series of terrorist attacks emerge just as a brand new Cyber-Security Task Force emerges, and must prove themselves by stopping this powerful new threat in author Jerome Preislerโ€™s action-thriller, โ€œNet Force: Dark Webโ€. 

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The Synopsis 

The return of the cutting-edge thriller series Net Force, created by Tom Clancy and Steve Pieczenik and written by Jerome Preisler.

The number one threat to our nationโ€™s security is in cyberspace. The new US president wants to tackle the urgent problem head-on and launches a top secret line of defense: Net Force. But before the organization can be announced, the country is hit by an unprecedented, two-pronged terror attack.

Not yet empowered by Congress nor embraced by a dubious intelligence community, still untested, unproven and officially unnamed, Net Forceโ€™s elite group of cyber experts and field operatives must lead the fight against the ongoing waves of hacks while tracking down the mastermind. Their failure could mean global catastrophe. Success may lead them to become the highest-level security agency in the United States.

A story that seems ripped from tomorrowโ€™s headlines, Net Force: Dark Web relaunches one of the most prescient thriller series at a time when cybersecurity is more vital than ever.


The Review

An exciting relaunch of a series co-created by icons Tom Clancy and Steve Pieczenik, Net Force: Dark Web is an exciting thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seat throughout the entirety of the novel. Full of action from the bookโ€™s first pages, the story is equal parts narrative and character development, giving readers plenty to engage with throughout the novel. 

Employing the same beloved military action, espionage and thriller aspects of any good Tom Clancy novel and incorporating modern day technological warfare and diving into how intimately technology has become a part of our everyday lives, the author does a brilliant job of analyzing our dependence on technology and the next era of terrorism and security around the world. As technology and our society evolves, so to will those seeking to use the good aspects of technology for their own nefarious purposes. 


The Verdict

A well-written, lengthy yet action-packed and engaging read. Author Jerome Preisler has done a marvelous job of creating a cast of characters that feel real and personal enough for readers to feel connected to, like one protagonist named Kali, whoโ€™s story evolves greatly from the first page of this novel all the way to itโ€™s end. With the United States facing a dangerous new threat, with government officials in the crosshairs and cyberthreats everywhere, itโ€™s up to a new elite task force to stop the threat before its too late. Find out for yourself why this is the next chapter of an exciting new action-thriller series by preordering your copy of Jerome Preislerโ€™s novel โ€œNet Force: Dark Webโ€ today! 

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Jerome Preisler is the prolific author of almost forty books of fiction and narrative nonfiction, including all eight novels in the New York Times bestselling TOM CLANCY’S POWER PLAYS series.

His latest book is NET FORCE:DARK WEB (November 2019), the first novel in a relaunch of the New York Times bestselling series co-created by Tom Clancy. Forthcoming in May 2020 is the enovella NET FORCE: EYE OF THE DRONE.

Among Jerome’s recent works of narrative history are CODE NAME CAESAR: The Secret Hunt for U-boat 864 During World War Two, and FIRST TO JUMP: How the Band of Brothers Was Aided by the Brave Paratroopers of Pathfinders Company. His next book of nonfiction, CIVIL WAR COMMANDO: William Cushing’s Daring Raid to Sink the Invincible Ironclad C.S.S. Albemarle,will be published by Regnery Books in October 2020.

Jerome lives in New York City and coastal Maine.


https://www.jeromepreisler.com/

https://amzn.to/2KB2EKG

Shadow of the Demon by Joseph Lewis Tamone Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A rescue mission for two missing comrades takes a drastic turn in author Joseph Lewis Tamoneโ€™s Shadow of the Demon.

The Synopsis

The exciting sequel to Fusion World.

A world on the brink. A team divided.

Itโ€™s been months since Vai and Edam disappeared through the portal created by the destruction of the Fusion World machine. Unfortunately the machine contained the last known Dark Orb, the critical component to interdimensional travel. Luckily, a prototype is found in the vault of its creator, Dr. Charles Vindia. Vint SawWood, Vindiaโ€™s protรฉgรฉ, is pressed into service and can reactivate the device. But it is decades old and may be a one way ticket. There is no way to know.

Undaunted, Sajaeler and Raven lead a mission to find and rescue their missing teammates. What they discover is a world in the midst of a civil war. A shapeshifter has rallied an army of disaffected citizens to his cause and will stop at nothing until he subjugates the planet. To make matters worse, Raven becomes gravely ill. Visiting this world of mythical foes and allies has triggered something within her. She must face the trials in order to survive.

With the war boiling over, the team at odds, and Raven on deathโ€™s door, can Vai, Edam, Sajaeler and a new band of friends save the world and each other?

The Review

A powerful read that capitalizes on a vast mythology, author Joseph Lewis Tamone does it again. A book that readers will definitely need to read book 1 of, this sequel to Fusion World is a fantastic read.

What the author has accomplished with this book is an equal amount of world building, character growth and mythology in a blend of sci-fi and fantasy. The healthy mix of larger than life, grand scale adventure and personal character battles characters like Raven undergo are what really drive the plot forward.

The Verdict

A lengthy yet engaging story, Shadow of the Demon was a wonderful novel that built upon the world building of the first novel while creating more personal and engaging character growth and a whole new world that further expands this growing universe. If youโ€™re a fan of epic sci-fi and fantasy, then grab your copy of Shadow of the Demon by Joseph Lewis Tamone today!

Rating: 10/10

https://amzn.to/370qkBM

Interview with Author R. Douglas Clark

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I got into writing through journalism. For several years I wrote for newspapers and magazines as a freelancer. My specialty was music journalism, which is good training for writing fiction. Writing about music is almost impossible to do!

2) What inspired you to write your book?

I was (and am) inspired by the place where I live: the seasons, the people, the history. The material is very rich for writing.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

Live life to the fullest, and be tolerant of others. Also, have a sense of humor!

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4) What drew you into this particular genre?

This book is not easily pegged to be a specific genre. For marketing purposes, it is called science fiction, and it does have sections of sci-fi, but there is more contemporary fiction in it than anything else.

5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

Iโ€™d love to talk to Tai-Keiko because she is from another millennium. I would ask her to describe life in her time to ours.

6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

The jury is out on this one. I think that the social media platform called โ€œword of mouthโ€ is the best of all.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Donโ€™t be afraid to take chances.

8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?


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I have just finished my next book, โ€œDangerous Crossing.โ€ It takes place on the border between the US and Mexico, and is concerned with contemporary issues, such as immigration, drug smuggling, human trafficking and sports gambling. It is due out early in 2020.

Print Length: 195 Pages

Genre: Science Fiction

Publisher: Beeline Press (June 19, 2019)

ISBN-10: 1645400646

ISBN-13: 978-1645400646

Welcome to Maravilla  is now available to purchase on Amazon.comBarnes and Noble, and  IndieBound.

About the Author

R. Douglas Clark was born in Vermont, grew up in Colorado, attended college in Chicago, and received a Master’s degree in music from Brown University. Seeing no future for himself in academia, he spent a year in the Oregon woods, living in a primitive cabin, writing music reviews and cultural commentary for magazines and newspapers. Next stop, Eugene, Oregon where he spent 20 damp years as a bootstrap businessman, father and musician. On a vacation trip, he and his wife, Shelley, fell in love with sunny northern New Mexico and subsequently moved there. After four years running Boys and Girls Clubs in Chimayรณ and Abiquiรบ–and another four, running a U-pick raspberry farm–he retired to write fiction full time.  

Find R. Douglas online: https://www.rdouglasclark.com/

— Blog Tour Dates

October 14th @ The Muffin

What goes better in the morning than a muffin? Join us as we celebrate the launch the blog tour for author R. Douglas Clarkโ€™s book Welcome to Maravilla. Read an interview with the author and win a copy of the book. 

http://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com

October 15th @ Book Santa Fe with Crystal Otto

Crystal Otto shares her thoughts about the sci-fi book Welcome to Maravilla by R. Douglas Clark. 

http://www.booksantafe.info/booksantafeblog

October 16th @ Bring on Lemons with Carmen Otto

Middle Schooler Carmen Otto reviews R. Douglas Clarkโ€™s Welcome to Maravilla and explains to her friends why this is a great book for even young readers.

http://bringonlemons.blogspot.com/

October 17th @ World of My Imagination

Nicole Pyles reviews Welcome to Maravilla by R. Douglas Clark and delights readers at World of My Imagination with an opportunity to learn more about this fast-paced sci-fi novel!

https://theworldofmyimagination.blogspot.com/

October 17th @ Selling Books

Donโ€™t miss todayโ€™s author interview with R. Douglas Clark as Cathy Stucker finds out more about his latest release Welcome to Maravilla.

https://www.sellingbooks.com/

October 21st @ Memoir Writerโ€™s Journey

Todayโ€™s guest author at Memoir Writerโ€™s Journey is R. Douglas Clark with an article about _________. Join Kathleen Poolerโ€™s audience as they learn more about Clark and his latest book Welcome to Maravilla.

https://krpooler.com/

October 22nd @ To Write or Not To Write

Sreevarsha reviews Welcome to Maravilla by R. Douglas Clarks and delights readers at To Write or Not To Write with her thoughts about this excellent novel!

http://sreevarshasreejith.blogspot.co.at/

October 23rd @ World of My Imagination

Learn more about R. Douglas Clark and his new book Welcome to Maravilla as he shares a few thoughts in an interesting interview with Nicole Pyles at World of My Imagination.

https://theworldofmyimagination.blogspot.com/

October 24th @ Look to the Western Sky

Visit Margo’s blog today where you can catch today’s author spotlight and learn more about R. Douglas Clark and his latest book Welcome to Maravilla.

https://margoldill.com/

October 25th @ A StoryBook World

Donโ€™t miss todayโ€™s publicity post at A Storybook World as readers at Dierdraโ€™s blog are introduced to โ€œWelcome to Maravillaโ€ by R. Douglas Clark.

http://www.astorybookworld.com/

October 28th @ Breakeven Books

Todayโ€™s Book Spotlight at Breakeven Books is Welcome to Maravilla by R. Douglas Clark โ€“ donโ€™t miss this great opportunity to add this lovely new novel to your collection!

https://breakevenbooks.com/

October 28th @ Lisa Haselton Reviews and Interviews

Lisa Haselton interviews R. Douglas Clark about his latest novel Welcome to Maravilla . Readers will delight in learning more about this science fiction story with itโ€™s courageous characters!

http://lisahaseltonsreviewsandinterviews.blogspot.com/

November 2nd @ Author Anthony Avina

Author Anthony Avina interview R. Douglas Clark about his latest novel Welcome to Maravilla

https://authoranthonyavinablog.wordpress.com/

November 12th @ Author Anthony Avina

Author Anthony Avina shares his thoughts after reading Welcome to Maravilla by R. Douglas Clark โ€“ donโ€™t miss this review!

https://authoranthonyavinablog.wordpress.com/

November 13th @ Bring on Lemons with Tara Forst

Wisconsin mother and book lover shares her review of R. Douglas Clark’s latest Welcome to Maravilla with readers at Bring on Lemons. 

http://bringonlemons.blogspot.com/

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Surviving Cougar Mountain (Kids vs Nature Book 4) by Karl Steam Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

The stakes have never been higher as the group of young kids who have survived three separate missions in the wild are faced with their most dangerous challenge yet in author Karl Steamโ€™s novel โ€œSurviving Cougar Mountainโ€. 

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The Synopsis

Another day, another wilderness mission. Thatโ€™s life for these sixth graders. The first three missions werenโ€™t easy, but mission number four is about to crank up the intensity and challenge them in ways they didnโ€™t think possible.

Surviving Cougar Mountain is book 4 of the Kids vs. Nature series, continuing a story that has captivated fans of the wilderness survival genre.

The Review

The four young kids are put in even more dire situations this time around. The fourth novel in the Kids vs Nature series from author Karl Steam, the author does a great job of showcasing the dangers of survival and the importance of teamwork in the face of that danger. 

Witnessing the power of nature and the beauty yet dangerous aspect of the creatures who call the outdoors their home was felt in every chapter of this book. While a quick read, the author does a great job of drawing the reader into the narrative and creating characters that are relatable and worth caring about, making the lessons the kids learn along the way more impactful as well. 

The Verdict

A well written, powerful and overall great book, the author continues to establish this middle school level read is a great series that not only entertains but educates young people on the beauty and danger of the great outdoors, and the tools theyโ€™ll need to survive out there. With memorable characters and important life lessons, this is not a book to be missed. Be sure to grab your copy of โ€œSurviving Cougar Mountainโ€ by Karl Steam today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Karl Steam is a children’s author and illustrator. Some of his works include Purple Pup, How Santa Changed, and the Kids vs. Nature series. He resides in the Lakes Region of the Upper Midwest with his wife and four children. Karl enjoys fishing, camping, and traveling. Oh yeah, he likes writing too.

Learn more at KarlSteam.com


Want to keep up to date on the latest book reviews on author Anthony Avinaโ€™s website, as well as other book related news? Sign up now for the monthly newsletter and receive a free short story when you subscribe!

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A Very Vegan Halloween: The Witchโ€™s Cauldron Cookbook by Rebecca Henry Review

Although Halloween season may indeed be over, there is never a bad time to find some creepy themed holiday treats as evidenced in author Rebecca Henryโ€™s novel โ€œA Very Vegan Halloween: The Witchโ€™s Cauldron Cookbookโ€.

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The Synopsis

Halloween has always been an important holiday in my home and a time for food and parties. This book contains traditional, bootiful Halloween recipes prepared from nondairy and cruelty free ingredients.

With 41 bewitching recipes to choose from, you will have a spooktacular selection of recipes to inspire your little ghost or goblins to gobble up their plates! Being a mom of two, and so no stranger to hosting Halloween parties for little ones, I understand the importance of presentation. If the food is fun and engaging, children and adults alike, will want to try vegan options. The recipes come with creative decorating ideas, party suggestions and terribly terrifying recipe names, to get your cute little ghouls eager to bake with you in the kitchen.

The Review

This fun and exciting read is a truly one of a kind, creative read that showcases the authorโ€™s natural gift for storytelling infused into a vegan friendly cookbook. The recipes readers will find here are perfect for not only Halloween, but anyone who enjoys creepy, spooky or horror themed goods all year round (like I do). 

One recipe that really stood out was the Bewitching Autumn Apples, as I have always loved caramel apples and this intriguing treat was not only creative on the authors part but the recipe itself was easy to follow as well. That is one example of the amazing recipes in this book, from baked goods and drinks to pizza and more. 

The Verdict

A fun, wicked good time of a cookbook, author Rebecca Henry strikes gold again with this novel, proving her writing skills know no bounds. Filled with delicious recipes that families will love and can enjoy in a vegan friendly way, this cookbook is a one of a kind read that should be used all year round. If you havenโ€™t yet, grab your copy of โ€œA Very Vegan Halloween: The Witchโ€™s Cauldron Cookbookโ€ by Rebecca Henry today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Rebecca Henry is a world traveler living abroad in England. Besides being an American author of two published books, Rebecca is also a podcast talk host on the show The Latte Talk. The podcast was inspired by her novel, Louisiana Latte and her diva sister Deb. Rebecca is a serious vegan, gardener, wife and mom who practices yoga.

Links:

website

Amazon

Goodreads

Instagram: @rebeccahenryauthor

Twitter: @rebeccahenryaut

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Want to keep up to date on the latest book reviews on author Anthony Avinaโ€™s website, as well as other book related news? Sign up now for the monthly newsletter and receive a free short story when you subscribe!

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The Jersey by James F. Rosenberg Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

One many faces the most painful and difficult challenge of his life as he balances family, career and life in author James F. Rosenbergโ€™s novel โ€œThe Jerseyโ€. 

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The Synopsis

Dan West wonders which is more important to him: Helping his long-time friend win back his business after being accused of stealing money from the company or coaching his eleven-year-old sonโ€™s soccer team trying to win an improbable championship.

Money and prestige donโ€™t motivate Dan. Rather, family, work and coaching soccer are the underpinnings of his life. He revels in the simple joys like hanging out with his wife Jill, mentoring a young lawyer at his firm and watching the boys connect on three passes before drilling the ball into the back of the net.

Dan always knew to keep it steadyโ€”not to get too high or he might get knocked off of his perch. And he did, until he, and the boysโ€™ soccer team, achieved unimagined success. Before he can grasp how good he has it, tragedy rips a hole in his family.

James Rosenberg, author of the bestseller Legal Reserves, strikes a new chord in his exploration of what makes a life and how to put it back together after it is shattered.

The Jersey is a beautifully written, profoundly touching, and relatable story of love, loss and the redemptive power of a group of motivated eleven-year-old kids.

The Review

This was a beautifully written, powerful and emotional read. A steady read that draws readers into the life of protagonist Dan, readers are left reeling as much as Dan himself after the tragic event that tears his family apart. The author does an excellent job of showcasing a detailed backstory and delving fully into Danโ€™s career as an attorney with a healthy balance of family life leading up to the tragedy. 

What really is captured is the raw pain that comes with tragic events and loss of any kind. The author delves into the grieving process and challenges the reader to find a way to overcome that grief, vowing to live life in the face of great tragedy and heartbreak. This is a story that is fueled by powerful character development that readers can instantly connect to and most readers will be hard pressed not to have a tear in their eye as the story progresses.

The Verdict

Emotional, heartbreaking and real, author James F. Rosenberg has written another smash hit that is engaging and evenly paced throughout the entirety of the novel. Showcasing the painful process of loss and grief and searching for a way to overcome them both, the author does an amazing job of creating a protagonist and narrative that readers can engage with and care for greatly. If you havenโ€™t yet, be sure to grab your copy of โ€œThe Jerseyโ€ by James F. Rosenberg today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

James Rosenberg has tried cases for the almost three decades.   He has learned that every case is unique and has compelling storylines.  He weaves his novels with morsels from his legal career and makes trials come to life.  He started writing legal thrillers as a stress reducer and finds that having control over what his characters are going to do is easier than controlling his own clients.

When he is not in court, he hangs with his family watching his boys play soccer or his girl dance.  He and his wife try to have a little free time but whenever the kids leave them alone, the dog wants more attention.  

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48406940-the-jersey

Amazon  https://www.amazon.com/Jersey-Story-Loss-Redemption-ebook/dp/B07YVL93W7/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=james+rosenberg&qid=1571153109&s=books&sr=1-2

Also, my authorโ€™s website:

Jamesrosenbergauthor.com

Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/RosenbergWrites/?modal=admin_todo_tour


Want to keep up to date on the latest book reviews on author Anthony Avinaโ€™s website, as well as other book related news? Sign up now for the monthly newsletter and receive a free short story when you subscribe!

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Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young Review

A young womanโ€™s life is turned upside down as the brother she thought lost to her forever returns to the land of the living, fighting alongside her peopleโ€™s enemy, in author Adrienne Youngโ€™s novel โ€œSky in the Deepโ€. 

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The Synopsis

Raised to be a warrior, seventeen-year-old Eelyn fights alongside her Aska clansmen in an ancient rivalry against the Riki clan. Her life is brutal but simple: fight and survive. Until the day she sees the impossible on the battlefieldโ€”her brother, fighting with the enemyโ€”the brother she watched die five years ago.

Faced with her brother’s betrayal, she must survive the winter in the mountains with the Riki, in a village where every neighbor is an enemy, every battle scar possibly one she delivered. But when the Riki village is raided by a ruthless clan thought to be a legend, Eelyn is even more desperate to get back to her beloved family.

She is given no choice but to trust Fiske, her brotherโ€™s friend, who sees her as a threat. They must do the impossible: unite the clans to fight together, or risk being slaughtered one by one. Driven by a love for her clan and her growing love for Fiske, Eelyn must confront her own definition of loyalty and family while daring to put her faith in the people sheโ€™s spent her life hating.

Part Wonder Woman, part Vikingsโ€”and all heart.

The Review

This was a powerful and original YA adventure like no other. Bringing to life a fantastic new YA heroine that embodies strength, power and emotion all at once, the series brings a unique blend of history and mythology while creating a cast of characters readers will instantly connect with.

Showcasing a strong message about the power that comes from understanding the differences between cultures and the tragedy that comes from warring over those differences, the novel does a great job of both entertaining and highlighting real world struggles through the use of historical and mythological context. More than anything, the novel does an excellent job of showcasing a strong female protagonist amidst an era of battle that saw men and women taking to the battlefields. 

The Verdict

In a novel that has equal parts entertainment with equal parts historical and mythological content, the first book in a world filled with Viking warriors and ancient gods dictating the laws of the land, the book highlights how underneath all the different gods, ways of life and landscapes that people live on, at the end of the day they are all just human after all. If you havenโ€™t yet, be sure to grab your copy of โ€œSky in the Deepโ€ by Adrienne Young today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

New York Times bestselling author of SKY IN THE DEEP, THE GIRL THE SEA GAVE BACK & the upcoming FABLE duology from Wednesday Books. Agent: Barbara Poelle, IGLA

Adrienne Young is a born and bred Texan turned California girl. She is a foodie with a deep love of history and travel and a shameless addiction to coffee. When sheโ€™s not writing, you can find her on her yoga mat, scouring antique fairs for old books, sipping wine over long dinners, or disappearing into her favorite art museums. She lives with her documentary filmmaker husband and their four little wildlings beneath the West Coast sun.

For information on release, appearances, ARCs, giveaways, and exclusive content, sign up for the newsletter at https://adrienneyoungbooks.com/

Instagram: @adrienneyoungbooks

Twitter: @adriennebooks

She Ran Away From Love by Mawson Bear Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A young bear searches for answers to some of lifeโ€™s toughest questions in author Mawson Bearโ€™s novel, โ€œShe Ran Away From Loveโ€. 

The Synopsis 

The Light of Love pours down on Frilly. It shines so brightly that she quails and runs away.

Upset with herself for feeling scared, she wakes her good friend Mawson and pours out her confusions. She wants to learn how to be bold and is convinced that she can do this by going on a quest.

With muddled help from Mawson she sets off into the great Out There. But is a quest to find oneself really the answer?

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The Review

This short yet heartwarming tale of a young bear struggling to find herself and write the story of her life will really speak to both children and adults. A beautiful blend of original photography with a creative, one of a kind narrative that brings the iconic classic teddy bear to life makes this read truly engaging. 

Whether you read it to your child or are fascinated with the world of antique and collectible teddy bears, this book will really entertain and touch an emotional chord within the reader. The age old question of who we are in the grand scheme of things and what our place in the universe is are eloquently highlighted in this profound book for audiences of all ages. 

The Verdict

If you are looking for a blend of humor, original photography and artwork, and even a hint of meditation that can teach readers younger and older the path to finding their place in the world can come from a place of calm meditation, then author Mawson Bearโ€™s โ€œShe Ran Away From Loveโ€ is the book for you. Emotional and heartwarming in the storyโ€™s narrative, this is a book that is not to be missed, so be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Mawson, the big hearted, soul searching teddy bear, is here to help. He is one of the few writer-bears in this bright world. He ponders about how to be one’s best. Then he puts his ponders into books.

A modest bear of generous proportions, distinctive in his white fur coat and bow tie, he is confident that things are going to be All Right.

In It’s A Bright World To Feel Lost In he ponders the loss of love. Can you rescue yourself from loneliness when you feel you have been left behind? (viewbook.at/ABrightWorld)

In She Ran Away From Love, Mawson helps his friend Frilly in her quest for answers to big questions. (Viewbook.at/SheRanAwayFromLove )

BookDepository: https://www.bookdepository.com/She-Ran-Away-From-Love-Mawson/9781925652543

Amazon USA: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1925652548/

https://mawsonbear.blog

https://www.instagram.com/mawsonbear/