Tag: drama

Bloody Coffee by Michelle Dim-St. Pierre Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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

A young woman struggles with the secrets her mother kept and who she really is in author Michelle Dim-St. Pierre’s novel, “Bloody Coffee”.

The Synopsis

Eighteen-year-old Leigh arrives at a Tel Aviv hospital, seeking information about her probable father, Dr. Sloan, who had a cardiac arrest right after they met for the first time. As she stands next to her father’s bed and watches him, her past, present and future collide. Despite the advice of those around her, Leigh decides to face the challenges of the legal system in Israel. She obtains a court order for a paternity test and confronts Sloan.

During her quest to find the truth about her biological father, Leigh is exposed to violent religious intolerance, faces life in a country where church and state are not separate, and meets the man who may be her first true love. Will she change her view of the world she thought she knew? Will she forgive her mother? Will a gunshot change her attitude towards her probable father? And, what will she say to Steve, the only father she ever really had?

The Review

While I myself have not read book 1 in this series, Bloody Coffee is a powerful and emotionally charged read that instantly connects with readers. From the book’s first pages the action and drama takes off, as the protagonist is still reeling from surprise introductions and jarring hospital visits.

The story is a fantastic read overall, but it’s the heavy focus on protagonist Leigh and her interactions with the supporting cast and larger than life setting of Tel Aviv that truly defines the novel. Her emotional journey of discovery about her true parentage and fighting against a system intertwined with religion and uphill battles, (on top of a budding romance to boot), make her a truly one of a kind protagonist readers are invested in immediately.

The Verdict

Overall I love the book. An evenly paced read that constantly maintains the drama and delivers an overall story that readers can relate to with themes that are more relevant than ever before, any newcomers to this series like myself will be on the edge of their seat the entire time. If you haven’t yet be sure to grab your copy of “Bloody Coffee” by Michelle Dim-St. Pierre today!

Rating: 10/10

 

 

Trailer:

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMPXVvwPBMc

About the Author:

Michelle Dim-St. Pierre was born in Tel-Aviv, Israel, where she spent more than half of her life before relocating to the United States.

She lived through four wars and served in the Israel Defense Forces for two years. Unlike her first year of service in an armored division in the Golan Heights, she served her second year serving in the medical corps where she interacted directly with the injured soldiers of the Peace of Galilee war and their families. This interaction, along with the exposure to the hospital atmosphere, fascinated Michelle and further touched her heart.  She went on to get a BS degree in Nursing in Tel-Aviv, and practiced internationally for 32 years in various positions in the surgical field and quickly advanced into health care administration. During her career she worked in the Operating Room, Recovery Room, and CCU—along with many other duties.

Writing was Michelle’s outlet at first, but it soon became her passion. Now, she is a full-time writer. Her international background, along with her military and nursing experience is always at the tip of her pen. Her first novel, Pinnacle Lust, started the Pinnacle trilogy and won the Beach Book Festival in the Romance category, as well as received several honorable mentions in other book contests. It was published to rave reviews.

Michelle is a world traveler who enjoys cooking epicurean food and creating original recipes. She currently splits her time between Florida and Georgia, where she is at work on her next two books.

Find Michelle Online:

Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13199731.Michelle_Dim_St_Pierre

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25048045-pinnacle-

lust?from_search=true

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MichelleDimStPierre/

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-dim-st-pierre-

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Website(s):

www.MichelleDimStPierre.com

www.PinnacleLust.com

www.BloodyCoffeeBook.com

 

Buy the Book:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/163183522X?ref=myi_title_dp

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bloody-coffee-michelle-dim-st-pierre/1131320894?ean=2940161424711

Apple Store: https://books.apple.com/us/book/id1461500705

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/bloody-coffee

Publisher: https://www.shop.booklogix.com/Bloody-Coffee-Hardcover-20881-HC.htm

Blog Tour Dates

Launch Day – May 13th

Michelle Dim-St. Pierre launches her tour of “Bloody Coffee” with an interview and giveaway at the Muffin!

http://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com/

May 14th @ Jill Sheets

Jill Sheets hosts Michelle Dim-St. Pierre with a guest post about Michelle’s writing process. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about “Bloody Coffee” and this successful author!

https://jillsheets.blogspot.com

May 16th @ BreakEven Books

Today’s author spotlight at BreakEven books is Michelle Dim-St. Pierre with her latest bestselling novel “Bloody Coffee” – a psychological thriller!

https://breakevenbooks.com/

May 17th @ Reviews by Deb

Deb Blanchard reviews “Bloody Coffee” by Michelle Dim-St. Pierre and shares her thoughts with friends on Facebook and Goodreads!

https://www.facebook.com/Reviews-by-Deb-1737715249887520/

May 20th @ Coffee with Lacey

Lacey delights her readers with her review of “Bloody Coffee” – this is thrilling novel readers can’t get enough of – find out more about Lacey’s thoughts and Michelle Dim-St. Pierre’s book by stopping at Coffee with Lacey today!

https://coffeewithlacey.com/

May 21st @ Amanda Diaries

Amanda L. Sanders offers her review of “Bloody Coffee”. Readers will delight in learning more about this fast-paced mystery!

https://amandadiaries.com/

May 22nd @ The Muffin

Crystal Otto from WOW! Women on Writing couldn’t put down “Bloody Coffee” by Michelle Dim-St. Pierre and she can’t wait to tell readers of the Muffin about this absolute must read thriller! Today is Michelle’s birthday – will Crystal give her a 5 Star Present? Stop by to find out!

http://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com/

May 24th @ Author Anthony Avina

Fellow author Anthony Avina gives a raving review after reading Michelle Dim-St. Pierre’s thrilling mystery “Bloody Coffee” – readers won’t want to miss the opportunity to hear Anthony’s insight into this must read novel!

https://authoranthonyavinablog.wordpress.com/

May 27th @ Beverley A. Baird

Michelle Dim-St. Pierre has done it again with another best seller – this time it’s a mystery/thriller called “Bloody Coffee” and Beverley A. Baird can’t wait to tell readers all about it in her review! This is a complex and suspenseful mystery readers will be excited to get their hands on!

https://beverleyabaird.wordpress.com/

May 28th @ Deal Sharing Aunt

Vicki, the Deal Sharing Aunt, shares her thoughts after reading the latest novel by Michelle Dim-St. Pierre. Readers won’t want to miss the opportunity to learn more about “Bloody Coffee”!

http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/

May 29th @ Margo Dill

Editor and Author Margo Dill couldn’t wait to read “Bloody Coffee” by Michelle Dim-St. Pierre. Stop by her blog today and read her review about this thrilling new release!

https://editor-911.com/articles

May 30th @ Sreevarsha  Sreejith

“Bloody Coffee” by Michelle Dim-St. Pierre travels all the way to France today as Sreevarsha Sreejith reviews this mystery and shares her thoughts with readers at her book blog!

https://sreejithsreevarsha.wordpress.com/

June 3rd @ World of My Imagination

Nicole Pyles couldn’t put down this 5 star read – let’s hear her review of “Bloody Coffee” by Michelle Dim-St. Pierre. Readers will delight as they put this mystery/thriller on their TBRPile!

https://theworldofmyimagination.blogspot.com/

June 5th @ Bring on Lemons with Tara Forst

Wisconsin business woman and mother, Tara Forst is a friend of WOW! and is excited to talk about her thoughts after reading “Bloody Coffee” by Michelle Dim-St. Pierre. Don’t miss this review and giveaway!

http://bringonlemons.blogspot.com/

June 6th @ Cassandra’s Writing World

Stop by Cassandra’s Writing World to hear more about Michelle Dim-St. Pierre and her latest best seller “Bloody Coffee” as Cassandra shares her review with readers!

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

June 7th @ Choices with Madeline Sharples

The author spotlight at Choices today is Michelle Dim-St. Pierre with her latest bestselling thriller “Bloody Coffee” – readers won’t want to miss an opportunity to learn more about this fabulous novel!

http://madelinesharples.com/

I Am Marcus Fox by Bryon Cahill Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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

One man’s grand story of his life blurs the line between reality and fiction in author Bryon Cahill’s novel “I Am Marcus Fox”. Here is the synopsis.

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The Synopsis

A dangerous man on the brink of madness recounts his life story—a nonstop, action-adventure thrill ride that proves fiction is stranger than truth.

Texas, 1967. Marcus Fox is born to notorious outlaw parents who are always on the run. Unaccustomed to any semblance of a stable family life, the often-neglected child is quick to realize Mom and Dad are driven by sheer violence and mayhem. Hiding out in cheap motels between heists, Marcus’s favorite pastime is listening to his father tell tall tales. He also secretly yearns for any glimmer of love from his monstrous mother. But those banks and roadside diners aren’t going to rob themselves. 

Zambia, Africa, 1973. Six-year-old Marcus Fox is abandoned. Adopted by a local tribesman and his wife, he learns their ways and survives along the Zambezi River. As he grows, Marcus becomes an experienced hunter and fights unimaginable beasts for his supper. But the one animal he can’t best is the ferocious lion within. In the prime of his life, Marcus finds himself strapped with an orphan baby of his own. Acting as both brother and father to the growing boy, Marcus must protect him from the nutty, imperceptible call of nature and shield him from the lucid lure of human contact.

The lines between reality and fantasy blur as Marcus, an unreliable narrator, navigates his most penetrating memories. In retelling his hero’s journey, Marcus reminisces on tragedy and farcical comedy, terror and psychological warfare. At times, he will even question his own sanity. 

Never faltering in his tale, Marcus paints an unbelievable story with larger-than-life bravado. But his overconfidence may just shake him apart and disrupt the infinite, swirling cosmos.

The Review

This has to be one of the most unique and fascinating character driven narratives I’ve had the pleasure of reading in a long time. A truly one of a kind story of a man who’s very existence is called into question as his life’s story becomes more and more surreal and his encounters become more and more “otherworldly” at times, this novel brings a unique study of the nature of one’s self. In the grand scheme of things, when any of us stop to look back on our lives, the biggest question we inevitably ask is, “Who are we?” And in that moment for the protagonist, the narrator responds calmly, “I Am Marcus Fox”. 

The book was evenly paced and provided a great deal of character growth. Heavily leaning on the protagonist’s life rather than a complex plot, the author beautifully captures the line between the reality most of the world sees, and the reality some of us tell ourselves or simply believe to be. It’s a fascinating story that will instantly capture the readers attention, and is a unique take on creating or interpreting a mythology to fit into an author’s vision. 

The Verdict

This is a must read novel for anyone who enjoys character studies, African literature and mythology, and drama fueled with satire and humor. A story of abandonment, violence, and the journey to discover who we are, the story will have readers heart’s pounding as they look to discover for themselves who Marcus Fox really is, and if his story is true or just true for him. If you haven’t yet, be sure to pick up your copy of I Am Marcus Fox by author Bryon Cahill today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Bryon Cahill is an author for all ages. A Stay-At-Home Dad by day and night, he writes by proverbial candlelight in the wee strange hours of morning. 

In the past, Bryon was an award-winning writer and editor of literary publications for teens. His stories, influenced by phantasmagorical classics such as Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, do often steer off-course, alighting on the wings of the fantastical.

When not writing or Dadding, Bryon dreams of sleeping sheep. He summers, winters, springs, and falls with his loving family along the sunny beaches of the Jersey Shore.

I Am Marcus Fox is Bryon’s debut novel for adult readers. It will be available for human consumption on May 7, 2019. 

Novels steeped in magical realism for young adult and middle grade readers are forthcoming, as is more fiction for adults.

Website & Blog: www.bryoncahill.com

Amazon Author Page: www.amazon.com/author/bryoncahill

Twitter: www.twitter.com/shakabry

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BryonCahillAuthor

Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/shakabry

Interview with Author Mixie Plum

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

I don’t remember I time when I wasn’t a reader and writer, I’ve always had an obsession with books. I lived at my public library. In elementary school when the book fair would come around I’d always get more than all the other kids. One time I heard one of them say “I bet she doesn’t even read them all” Well I always did, and I still have them too haha. 

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

In my early thirties when I began to turn my life around, I wanted to write out all of my pain so I could not only get it out of my head but work through it piece by piece. It worked luckily

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

I want to relate to people and hope they find solace in another person’s tale. I want them to know that I understand and accept and am always around to give a healing hug. 

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I thought I could help people

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

I’d ask the wolf  if I could hang out with him haha. He’s based on John Cleese & Belgarath the Sorcerer from David Eddings so how cool would that be? 

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

Instagram for sure. I’ve been connecting with so many lovely humans

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

Go at your own pace and don’t put expectations on yourself. I thought “Sun” would be a huge novel at first, I got out eveything I wanted in a fraction of that. 

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

Yes! My creepy children’s poetry book, Gobbledygook, is currently being written and performed by me on YouTube. I find it more fun introducing it like that before it becomes a book. I want to be the next Shel Silverstein/Edward Gorey/Dr. Suess haha.

My second book, BYOFU (Be Your Own Fucking Unicorn), about mindfulness and coping will be coming out next year hopefully.

A graphic novel & a podcast are also in the works. 

I’m also in an indie horror movie coming out in the fall. 

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Mixie+plum&ref=is_s

https://www.instagram.com/abottleaplomb/

Interview with Author Tabitha Young

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

Q:  Tell us a little about yourself. How did you get into writing?

A:   Growing up, I was never into writing stories, or even reading for that matter. I read textbooks and enjoyed movies over books for most of my life. I didn’t into writing until I started working on The Burden of Trust. 

Q: What inspired you to write your book?

A: The idea for The Burden of Trust came to me in a dream. The dream was vivid and detailed and refused to leave me. This dream was the first scene where Kate and Chris meet. It continued to play over and over again, and when I was telling a co-worker she suggested that I write it down.  When I began writing, the story line started to progress and I couldn’t stop writing.

Q: What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

A: I hope that readers will discover that love comes in all shapes and sizes. Love is deeper than romance and sometimes it takes a new and unexpected love to give you hope in this world. 

Q:What drew you into this particular genre?

A: I’ve always been a sucker for a great romance story, but I wanted to create something different. A love story with something more.

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

A: I would probably sit down with Kate and ask her why she is so resistant to Chris’s affection?  I’d want to know why she is so willing to turn away love because it doesn’t come in the right package.

Q: What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

A: I”m a huge fan of FaceBook and I find it is easier to connect directly with my readers there. Although, I am still learning the ropes of IG.

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Q: What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

A: Don’t publish too early! Especially if it’s your first novel, have it gone over from a reputable editor.  Then reach out to book reviewers and avid readers to see what their perspective is.  When I first self published The Burden of Trust, my first review from a reviewer was so bad, she couldn’t publish it. Basically, I got told I had a good story, but the writing was horrible. Write and rewrite your book!

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

A: Currently, I’m finishing up the second book in The Burden of Trust series.  Keep your fingers crossed, it might be out in early 2020!

About the Author

Tabitha grew up in Virginia, outside of Washington D.C., but moved to Orlando to attend UCF (Go Knights!) where she received a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. It was five years ago when she met her husband, who is a graduate from Deland High; two years ago, they moved back to Deland. During this time, she has fallen in love with the town and community. 

Currently, she is an active alumna of Kappa Alpha Theta and serves on the Advisory Board as the Facility Management Advisor for the Epsilon Theta Chapter at Stetson University. During her free time, she loves being with her family (although they are usually working on their small family farm), traveling, and of course, watching college football.

https://www.tabithayoung.com/

https://www.instagram.com/tabithayoungauthor/

https://www.facebook.com/TabithaYoungAuthor/

Memoir From Hell by Stephen Ross Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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

TRIGGER WARNING: This novel contains story elements involving physical and mental abuse (including those involving children), as well as themes of domestic abuse. If these things are too upsetting or triggering for readers, reader discretion is advised.

A young man begins the painful journey of recovery by sharing the gristly details of a hellish childhood that changed him forever in author Stephen Ross’ novel “Memoir From Hell”. Here is the synopsis.

The Synopsis

A child’s life should be idyllic: filled with friends, abundant joy, and carefree days of endless possibility. But that was not to be for Jake Malloy and his little sister, Dory. Their lives traversed paths upon which no child should tread.As a young adult trying to overcome the past, Jake chronicles the events that destroyed the possibilities and turned life for the Malloys into a living hell. Will Jake and Dory ever be able to lead normal lives? Only time will tell.A fictional memoir not for the faint of heart.

The Review

This is a painful yet important and well written novel. A top read contender for best literary fiction/drama/thriller, author Stephen Ross has expertly brought the heartbreaking reality of domestic abuse and childhood trauma to life. Studying the effects of abuse on the mind a young person who grew up in a truly harmful environment, the author creates realistic and relatable characters that bring the raw emotions of that situation to the forefront, instantly connecting with readers.

The themes and story elements of the story are both powerful and hard to read at times. Yet in this very quick read, the message that comes through has never been more important than it is today, as violence (especially violence against children and domestic violence), seems to be getting worse and more rampant, and the need for the laws to change have never been more apparent. 

The Verdict

This is an emotionally charged novel that needs to be read. Haunting and painfully relevant, this novel is a horror story that challenges the concept of monsters, as it proves that the true monsters are often hiding in plain sight, and could be hiding inside the people we should be able to trust the most. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy of “Memoir From Hell” by Stephen Ross today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Stephen Ross was born in LeMars, Iowa, in 1948. He lived in Fremont, Nebraska, from the age of five until he left home to attend the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. After college, Stephen taught business courses at Nebraska Technical College for two years prior to moving to Los Angeles, California, to pursue an acting career.

During his eight years in Los Angeles, he not only acted, but gained extensive experience as a waiter. He moved to San Diego, California, in 1981 to attend law school at the University of San Diego, and practiced law there until retiring in 2017.

Website: www.stephenrossauthor.com

Facebook: StephenRossWriter

Twitter: StephenRoss48

Interview with Author N. Lombardi Jr.

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

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

Born and raised in New York City, I left to see the world at age 24 as a water engineer in the Peace Corps. For most of my life, I had never entertained the idea of becoming an author. My career as a groundwater specialist kept me busy enough, filled with both adventure and satisfaction with my job. However, while in Kenya I fell in love with a woman, and this relationship was doomed from the start. As a kind of catharsis, I began to write a semi-autobiographical story which became Journey Towards a Falling Sun. As I said, it was the need to purge my emotions that drove me, without immediate plans for publishing, as I was in the prime of life as regards to my vocation. But in 1985, I did manage to get an agent who was very enthusiastic over the manuscript. After fifteen rejections by big publishing houses, however, I gave up and shelved it, abandoning any thoughts about being a writer. It wasn’t published until 30 years later.

In 1996, while working in Laos, I learned of the secret war that the US conducted for 9 years, and resulted in the aerial bombardment that has given that country the dubious distinction of being the most heavily bombed country of all time. As an American, I was ashamed of my ignorance of this matter, for I had never known of this secret war. I was so moved, I decided I would write an epic novel that would illustrate the consequences of that war which became The Plain of Jars, released in 2013. And from there my path as a writer began.

2) What inspired you to write your book?

The idea for Justice Gone came from a true incident – the fatal beating of a homeless man in California. It was such an outrageous act, recorded on video and uploaded to YouTube, that I wondered what would happen if someone who saw the gruesome video would mete out their own version of justice to the police officers involved.

The novel then, is a tale of what happens in a small town following the fatal beating of a homeless Iraqi war vet at the hands of police. A cascading series of events, from street protests to a vigilante shooting of three police officers leads to a multi-state manhunt for the vet’s war time buddy. A controversial trial attracting nationwide attention dominates the second half of the novel. The story ends with a twist revealing the identity of the cop-killer

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

Although deaths at the hands of law enforcement officers disturb me, I tried to avoid taking too strong a stand against the police, and just presented a possible (albeit extreme) scenario if this issue is not addressed. I also wanted readers to have a detailed look at the legal system in the US, i.e. the importance of lawyer tactics on both sides of the bench and of jury sentiment in deciding a case.

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4) What drew you into this particular genre?

First of all, I don’t consider myself a genre writer, I just write about things that move me. Having said that, as a reader I do enjoy mystery/thriller/suspense/crime, so I may be writing more of this kind of fiction from now on. It is much easier to write this sort of stuff than cross-cultural adventure novels such as my first two books, The Plain of Jars, set in Laos, and Journey Towards a Falling Sun, set in Kenya.

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

I would have to say, the policemen that beat Jay Felson to death – Why, when he was unarmed, did it take 6 cops to bring him down and beat him till he died?

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

I’m really not active in the social media scene, so I would have to say Goodreads, despite the fact I find Goodreads a bit exploitive and disdainful of independent authors. As a reader, it is pretty good. I tried Facebook, but it isn’t focused enough and being an old fart, I’m mistrustful of Twitter. I love book bloggers, thank god for them!

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

Although it sounds cliché, the first thing is to write well. Many independent authors, particularly those who self-publish, write with a quality barely above a high school student. You don’t have to be a wordsmith, but the book should not sound stilted. Read passages from a book by an acclaimed author than read your stuff. How does it compare?

Secondly, unless you’re with a big publishing house, be prepared to market your work. You should have a budget of $2,000 for this, even if you are very active on social media, because it’s always better for someone else to tout your book than you as the author. That means reviews, which can only result from exposure.

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

I’m in the process of fine-tuning another Tessa Thorpe novel, Woman in the Shadow. It takes place several years prior to the setting of Justice Gone, and is considerably darker, more of a psychological/suspense thriller. I actually wrote this before Justice Gone, but I was disappointed with the publisher’s reaction to it so I shelved it. Directly related to this, I’m looking for another publisher, so I hope it doesn’t take too long for the book to come out.

Treading the Uneven Road by L.M. Brown Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews3 Comments

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

Author L.M. Brown delivers a powerful collection of short stories that explores the connected lives of several people living in a small village in Ireland during the 80’s and 90’s in her upcoming book, Treading the Uneven Road. Here’s the synopsis.

The Synopsis

The stories in this linked collection are set in a small village in the Northwest of Ireland in the early 1980’s and 90’s. A by-pass around the village has rid them of their once busy traffic. The residents feel forgotten by the world. The need to reach out and be heard is explored in every story, from the young woman who starts to have phone conversations with her husband’s gay lover, to the dyslexic man who confronts his cruel teacher years later. 

The collection is not only about the characters need for salvation but it is about a society that is unraveling. In Amends, we hear about the Bishop who has fathered a child. A priest is beckoned by a dying man to be mocked. The world inside and outside the village is changing. In every story the characters need to make a choice on how they might carry on.

The Review

This is a fantastic short story collection. Filled with heart, passion and fantastic character development, the story flows naturally and makes for an even paced series of stories that build this village’s life in unique ways. Exploring this unique time period and showing off some of the many problems people living in Ireland faced on a daily basis was an inspired choice, highlighting the changing world around them and how some people accepted this change, while others fought it wholeheartedly. 

From the hostility towards anyone who comes out or is found to be gay in a very religious community to the trouble that comes from  parenthood and how some people aren’t made to be mother’s or father’s. Exploring marriages, friendships and everything in between, this emotional roller coaster of a short story collection is truly unique and brings some heartfelt struggles to life.

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The Verdict

This upcoming collection is a must read 2019 book. An interesting journey of individuals with their own personal struggles and how those struggles affect others really shone brightly in the novel. Amends in particular is one short story you won’t want to miss, as the story takes readers into shocking directions and forces the reader to ask themselves how our elders prejudices affect us, and how they can affect others. If you haven’t yet, be sure to preorder your copy of L.M. Brown’s “Treading the Uneven Road” today (or grab your copy of the book if it’s already released)!

Rating: 8/10

https://www.amazon.com/Treading-Uneven-Road-L-Brown/dp/194438880X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1548732149&sr=1-1&keywords=9781944388805

The Sojourners by T.L. Hughes Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews2 Comments

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

One young man’s adventure seeking to fulfill lifelong dreams turns into a journey of self discovery in author T.L. Hughes novel The Sojourners. Here is the synopsis.

The Synopsis

When Chasing a Dream Leads Deeper Within……

Picking up where Searching for Paradise left off, Mike Hogan, Decky Brady, and Luke Coppens start off in London, still chasing and believing their Hollywood dreams of working in the music video business. But after only a few days into the trip, the friends quickly abandon their efforts and put new plans into place. 

On his own developing journey and through encounters with other travelers and new friends, Mike Hogan experiences the love of finding oneself again. With vivid imagery, poetry and references to great songs throughout, The Sojourners stands on its own as a complete work, with colorful characters and simple people who resonate with the beauty of life. This inspiring, reflective novel shows the importance of ultimate belief in ourselves, and the realization that despite our differences, deep down inside, we all share a common good.

What others are saying:

“Throughout it all, Hughes maintains a tension that transforms this meandering tale into one of complex depictions of human compassion. A charming, soulful entry into a popular (and often disappointing) genre.” – Kirkus Reviews

“Hughes gives us beautiful sentences and finely crafted imagery throughout, with a comforting cadence in his prose, rolling along like a train journey. The story offers carefree country-hopping for the armchair traveler, and each new location – bar, disco, train car, or sidewalk – serves up a vicarious thrill. The Sojourners is a beautifully written work of travel writing, which will be especially appealing to those who have yet to travel, or those who may want to rekindle the expanded horizons of traveling abroad.” Self-Publishing Review, ★★★★ 

The Review

This was an incredibly deep, emotional and thoughtful read. Filled with flowing storytelling and memorable characters throughout, the novel featured incredibly beautiful imagery used by the protagonist, describing his journey through Europe and through the inner workings of his own mind. 

The themes of dealing with loss, finding one’s purpose and discovering the meaning of your own life through travel and adventure really stuck out to me. Unlike other stories of self-discovery, this story stood out for delving into the Cold War era 1980’s, and with each new character introduced in the journey the author saw the real life struggle of topics like racism, politics and religion play out in a completely natural way.

The Verdict

Overall this was a phenomenal read. A detailed, thorough yet pleasant read, the story held the readers attention throughout and painted an image of the protagonist’s journey with such ease that it felt as if you’d lived the journey yourself. Full of humor, wit and charm, the story felt relatable and like something current day readers could draw their real life struggles from. If you haven’t yet, grab this emotionally driven novel The Sojourners by T.L. Hughes today.

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

T.L. Hughes was born in Salem, Massachusetts, and at a young age moved to Lowell, Massachusetts where he grew up, attending the local public schools through high school. After graduating from the University of Massachusetts in 1980, he headed west to California. Today, he lives in Orange County with his wife and family.

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Interview with Author P.A. Kane

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment
  1. Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I grew up in a small three bedroom/one bathroom house with my parents and nine siblings in Buffalo, New York. Presently, I live in a suburb of Buffalo with my wife and three college age children, who don’t seem to want to leave.

As far as how I started to write. I went through a pretty aimless period after high school where I couldn’t figure out what I wanted to do and was in and out of college.  Finally, in my early twenties I started read in a pretty serious way—stuff like Kerouac, Philip Roth, the poetry of Anne Sexton—which led me to want to give writing a shot. Problem was by the time I was all read up I was in my late twenties and had the pressure of trying to keep a roof over my head and a pretty serious girlfriend, whom I would eventually marry and have children with, so I had to shelve the writing thing. But when the kids got older and needed me less, I started to get up before work (really the middle of the night) make some coffee and write for a few hours. Few years later I have two published novels and a book of essays on the way, plus a million other ideas for books.

 

2) What inspired you to write your book?

Leaving Jackson Wolf was intended to be a novella about Jackson’s friend McDougal. But as I got into it I realized the book was more about Jackson and his relationship with his father which was fraught with so much anger and dysfunction. This compelled me to explore how a fifteen-year-old kid would not only survive the violent dysfunction of his home life, but the possible outcomes on the other side of it. I also wanted to talk about male relationships and tried to portray Jackson and McDougal without all the tough guy underpinnings of traditional male relationships. Both boys are pretty tough, but they aren’t afraid to be vulnerable with each other and to care for each other in a way you don’t see much, but I think healthy. I’m pretty sick of the toxic way guys measure themselves with each other.   

 

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

I would hope when people read this they find value in owning up and being accountable for your life. Jackson makes his share of mistakes, but rather than wallow in his failures, he is persistent and moves forward trying to do better, always trying to find his power. Additionally, the boys love indie music and in dark times not only is it a friend that helps them feel less alone, but it also provides great perspective on life. So I would hope people might look into some of the fifty plus artists mentioned in the book and give them a good listen or just listen to good music in general. I feel sad for people who don’t have music or think good music is Coldplay.

  

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I’m not really drawn to a genre. I just wanted to tell a story about two boys trying to make their way through a complicated world. The writing world seems to be genre and series driven, but all I really want to do is write stories about real people in real life situations regardless of their age or whatever.

 

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

Though she wasn’t in the book much I would like to sit with Jackson’s mom and get a update on where she was and what happened to her. Maybe this is a little voyeuristic and creepy, but I also would like to sit off to the side back at The Spot with Jackson and McDougal and just listen to them and talk music and the wonders of the female persuasion with a couple of beers. I’d like to hear the excitement in their voices as they talk about all the possibilities still ahead for them.

  

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

Boy, this social media thing is so overwhelming and so competitive. Too much for the one-man operation I run. I mostly use Facebook and I mostly do a bad job with it. Going forward as I gather more resources I’m going to invest in some outside help.

 

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

Don’t be afraid to start small. With the recent baseball playoffs I was reminded of being in a school lavatory back in the day and some older boys had a transistor radio and were listening to the World Series. From that single image of the boys with the radio in the lavatory I got this pretty cool story Knox, O’Malley, Sheena and The Miracle Mets. From little seeds a tree can grow.

 

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

Presently editing a book of essays that I hope to publish in the spring/summer of 2019.

I have this new charter O’Malley that I’ve been sketching on my blog and a couple chapters of another novel.

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About the Author

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Growing up in a three bed/one bath house with nine siblings in Buffalo, New York was a just the facts, assembly-line type of childhood. However, one day in the late seventies, well into my clamorous teen years, that all changed when my exhausted mom uncharacteristically asked several probing questions about how I was doing, what I wanted of life and how I was going to get there… totally confounding me.  She was supposed to dish out commands and make declarative statements: …take out the trash …don’t come home unless you’re bleeding; …every time you masterbate it’s a hundred-years in purgatory. Not ask me to articulate inward looking, reflective questions about myself. Self-examination and contemplation, was light years beyond my transactional existence.

 Eventually, though, due to a certain amount of aimlessness and failure I did come to consider my mom’s questions and many more of people, time, place and heritage, which have become the basis of the novel “Written In The Stars: The Book Of Molly.” Seen through the eyes of young Molly Shea it is an exploration of the ways and means of 1979 Irish-Catholic, South Buffalo and an evolving girl’s place in that world.

Presently I am one neighborhood removed from South Buffalo in West Seneca, New York where I live with my wife, three college age children and a cat that hates me. I have a State University of New York background in English and I love trade paperbacks, quiet black mornings and The Ramones.

https://www.facebook.com/pakane14220/

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http://www.pakane.net/

http://buffalomud.com/

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